Planet Zoo 2 Wildlife Reserves: Releasing Animals Explained

What is a Wildlife Reserve?

A natural area beyond your zoo. In the original Planet Zoo, releasing an animal just earned conservation credits; in Planet Zoo 2 you build the place it goes to and can visit it afterwards. Reserves are part of your global network alongside your zoos, available in every game mode through the Planet Hub.

How do you build an ecosystem?

1. Clean up environmental pollutants.
2. Remove invasive plants.
3. Add the right mix of water, foliage and terrain for the ecosystem type, such as watering holes in grassland or lowland marsh in broadleaf reserves.
4. Fill the ecosystem’s roles, such as animals that root in soil, browse trees or hunt, to raise biodiversity and the reserve’s rating.

How do you release animals?

In release groups, which vary by species from single animals to breeding pairs and larger groups. Each group has requirements, which can include longevity, fertility and genetic diversity, so good welfare in your zoo comes first. Released animals live out their lives in the reserve, breed and add to the wild population.

Not every species can be released. The FAQ says only species with an appropriate reserve can go into one; check the animal list and the in-game Zoopedia.

What is the Research Network?

It is how a reserve earns its keep. A Research Outpost with its own Research Vehicle sits at the centre, and you add Observation Platforms, Acoustic Monitors and Camera Traps around the reserve. The data improves the reserve’s Biodiversity Rating, earns Conservation Credits and unlocks higher species research back at the zoo.

Can you explore a reserve yourself?

Yes. Drive the Research Vehicle across the terrain or get out and walk, with a compass that points to the nearest animals and a camera for photos. Frontier’s 56-minute Wildlife Reserve Gameplay Showcase shows it in action. For better pictures, see Planet Zoo 2 photo mode.