The Museum was established in 1973 thanks to the efforts of Forest Inspector Giovanni Zanardo, after whom it is now named. The goal was to enhance the biodiversity of Cansiglio, particularly its fauna, which is so difficult to observe in nature. The facility, initially managed by the State Forestry Corps, has been cared for since 2017 by the Carabinieri Biodiversity Department of Vittorio Veneto and the Carabinieri Unit for Biodiversity Protection in Cansiglio. The mission of the Museum is to preserve and exhibit various collections of fauna, entomology, and geology for informative, educational, and training purposes, with the belief that it will increase environmental awareness among younger generations and beyond.
The exhibition features two special dioramas showcasing the fauna of the area (deer, hare, wildcat...), and several displays with mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects inhabiting the Cansiglio and Col Nudo-Monte Cavallo area, situated between the provinces of Belluno, Treviso, and Pordenone. A series of photographs documenting the karst phenomena and numerous fossils found in the area, along with a collection of prints illustrating various aspects of the forest.
The collection is owned by the State Forestry Corps, which also offers interesting educational paths dedicated to schools of all levels.
