Are There Animals in São Paulo? exhibition brings urban biodiversity to Avenida Paulista

Birds, mammals, reptiles and insects share the same streets with more than 11 million São Paulo residents every day, yet they seldom receive much notice.

Urban biodiversity in São Paulo

To encourage people to see them differently, the USP Museum of Zoology has brought part of its collection out of the laboratories and onto the floor of Shopping Center 3, right on Avenida Paulista. The Are There Animals in São Paulo? exhibition brings urban biodiversity closer to those travelling along one of Brazil’s busiest avenues.

Visitors will find preserved animals from the university’s scientific collection, previously unseen photographs taken by the research team, and a fully bilingual space in Portuguese and English. The appeal lies in discovering how different species have adapted to life in the nearby squares, parks and gardens - and how nature continues to emerge amid so much concrete.

The public is also encouraged to get involved as a “scientist for a day”. The exhibition is linked to the iNaturalist platform, where anyone can upload photographs of animals spotted around the city and contribute directly to real research.

Outdoor wildlife activities

As well as the interactive, Instagram-friendly installation in the shopping centre, the programme extends outdoors through the BioSearch and Come Birdwatching São Paulo projects. These take visitors out to observe wildlife up close in green havens such as Trianon Park and Independence Park.

The project was conceived and assembled entirely by postgraduate students and lecturers from USP and Unifesp, ensuring clear, accessible information for all ages. The schedule also includes nature photography workshops, origami activities, mask-making for children, discussion circles and talks with wild fauna specialists.

Information about the ‘Are There Animals in São Paulo?’ exhibition

• Address: Shopping Center 3 – Avenida Paulista, 2064 – Cerqueira César, São Paulo, Brazil
• Dates and opening hours: From 18 August to 31 October, Monday to Saturday, 08:00–22:00; Sundays and public holidays, 10:00–22:00. Free activities are scheduled for 23 and 30 August, with specific times to be announced by the organisers.
• Price: Free
• Ideal for: Families / Children / Friends
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible venue

While you are in the area, discover 7 restaurants and cafés to eat at on Avenida Paulista