Belfast Zoological Gardens

Belfast Zoological Gardens, also widely known as Belfast Zoo, is a significant zoological institution situated on the northeastern slope of Cavehill in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Opened to the public on March 28, 1934, it holds the distinction of being the second-oldest zoo in Ireland, following Dublin Zoo. The zoo occupies a 55-acre site and has become a prominent visitor attraction, drawing over 300,000 visitors annually, and is recognized as one of Northern Ireland's top fee-paying attractions.

History and Development

The origins of Belfast Zoo are linked to the city's public transport system in the early 20th century. In 1911, Belfast Corporation took over a tram line and developed the area, named Bellevue, into pleasure gardens. By 1933, the corporation decided to establish a zoological collection, and in 1934, 12 acres were laid out as Bellevue Zoo. The construction involved 150 men, and the site was officially opened by Sir Crawford McCullagh, the Lord Mayor of Belfast. The initial cost of £10,000 attracted 284,713 visitors in its inaugural year.

Management and Collections

Belfast Zoo is owned by Belfast City Council, which allocates over £2.5 million annually for its operation and promotion. The zoo is overseen by the council's Parks and Leisure Committee. Its extensive collections feature more than 1,200 animals from over 140 species. Notable animal groups include primates like western lowland gorillas and chimpanzees, various mammals, birds such as flamingos and penguins, and reptiles. The zoo also maintains a farm area with domestic animals.

Conservation and Modernization

A core mission of Belfast Zoo is wildlife conservation. The majority of the animals housed at the zoo are endangered in their natural habitats. The zoo actively participates in over 90 European and international breeding programmes designed to safeguard threatened species. The zoo is a member of esteemed organizations such as the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA), the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).

Recent developments at the zoo have included renovations to animal enclosures, such as those for gorillas, chimpanzees, giraffes, and elephants. A new tropical rainforest house was opened in 2008, featuring a walk-through exhibition. In 2009, the zoo celebrated its 75th anniversary with the opening of a new Visitors' Centre and shop, supported by funding from the Northern Ireland Tourist Board. The zoo has seen numerous births and new arrivals, including a Barbary lion cub, Sumatran tigers, and the UK's only tree-kangaroo, highlighting its commitment to breeding programs and animal welfare.