Exmoor Zoo

Exmoor Zoo is a conservation centre situated near Bratton Fleming within the Exmoor National Park in North Devon, England. It evolved from Exmoor Bird Gardens, which originally opened on a farm site in 1982. Following a change in ownership in 1993, the zoo underwent significant enlargement and development, with a progressive shift in focus towards the conservation of smaller animal species, alongside a broad spectrum of birds and reptiles.

Membership and Accreditation

The zoo has been an active member of BIAZA, the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums, since 1995. In 2018, Exmoor Zoo further expanded its affiliations by becoming a member of EAZA, the European Association of Zoos and Aquariums, underscoring its commitment to international zoological standards and cooperation.

History and Development

Exmoor Bird Gardens initially occupied a 7-acre site, expanding to 12 acres by 1985. After facing financial difficulties and receivership in 1992, new ownership in 1993 led to extensive refurbishments and the introduction of a wider range of animal species. The zoo experienced name changes, moving from Exmoor Animal & Bird Gardens in 1995 to Exmoor Zoological Park in 1997, eventually being known simply as Exmoor Zoo. Construction projects in the 2000s, including the African Café, reptile areas, and specialized enclosures for cheetahs and maned wolves, contributed to its growth and visitor experience.

Animal Collection and Conservation Focus

Exmoor Zoo cares for approximately 175 species of animals, birds, and reptiles. It exhibits many rare captive species, such as Malagasy civets, margays, New Guinea singing dogs, and rusty-spotted cats. The zoo's mammal collection includes larger residents like cheetahs and wolves, as well as numerous smaller carnivore species. Notable avian residents and reptiles are also part of its diverse collection.

Conservation Efforts

The zoo actively participates in international, European, and national animal breeding programmes, collaborating with other institutions globally to ensure the survival of various species. Exmoor Zoo has been particularly recognized for its conservation work with tamarins and marmosets, and more recently, with long-nosed potoroos and smaller carnivore species. The zoo has also been targeted by thieves, highlighting the vulnerability of endangered animals and prompting security enhancements, such as the acquisition of noisy howler monkeys.

Notable Exhibits and Animals

One of Exmoor Zoo's distinctive attractions was the enclosure for the "Exmoor Beast," featuring a melanistic leopard. The zoo housed Ebony, a black panther, and later Zoysa, a male black panther, as part of its breeding initiatives. Other significant animals include a variety of monkeys, lemurs, kangaroos, tapirs, and numerous smaller carnivores. The bird collection features species like Abyssinian ground hornbills and shoebills, contributing to the zoo's extensive biodiversity.