Frampton
The Miller Zoo: a singular place where wildlife comes back to life
Located in Frampton, in Chaudière-Appalaches, the Miller Zoo is far more than a simple zoological garden: it is a wildlife sanctuary and a rehabilitation centre where more than 200 animals representing 65 species live in a carefully laid-out natural setting.
Founded by Clifford Miller and Émilie Ferland, the zoo grew out of a deep wish to come to the aid of orphaned, injured or distressed wild animals. That rehabilitation mission is still at the heart of the place today, and every year it returns several animals to the wild when that is possible.
Walking the trails, visitors come across emblematic North American species — black bears, wolves, lynx, cougars, deer, foxes — as well as a variety of exotic residents such as Asian otters, tamanduas, lemurs and coatis. All are presented in suitable habitats that are constantly being improved to ensure their well-being.
The Miller Zoo also stands out for its educational approach. Through animal encounters, the residents' daily feeding and privileged contact with the keepers, young and old learn more about the behaviour, the history and the needs of each species. The moving stories of certain animals — from Patof the raccoon to Nahla the lioness — often stay with visitors.
To round out the visit, the site also has a pizzeria overlooking the Kodiak bears, several picnic areas, a souvenir shop and trails accessible to strollers and wheelchairs (though they are not paved). The zoo is open summer and winter alike, with programming that changes with the seasons.
Today the Miller Zoo is recognized as a warm, authentic place deeply committed to wildlife. A place where you learn, where you marvel… and where you come a little closer to nature.
