Paignton Zoo

Paignton Zoo: A Zoological and Botanical Institution

Paignton Zoo, located in Paignton, Devon, England, is a significant zoological and botanical garden with a history spanning over a century. Established in 1923 by Herbert Whitley as Primley Zoological Gardens, it began as a private collection and gradually evolved into a public institution dedicated to animal welfare, conservation, and education. As of January 2026, the zoo is operated by the Dutch leisure company Libéma, following its acquisition along with sister zoo Newquay Zoo.

Animals and Plants

The zoo spans 80 acres and houses a diverse collection of approximately 1,876 animals representing nearly 189 species. Paignton Zoo is notable for being the only institution in the United Kingdom to house northern brown kiwis and short-beaked echidnas. Its collection includes numerous critically endangered species, such as Sumatran tigers, western lowland gorillas, and Bornean orangutans. The zoo actively participates in European Endangered Species Programmes (EEPs) and manages international studbooks for species like the Southern cassowary and the critically endangered Sulawesi crested macaque.

Beyond its animal inhabitants, Paignton Zoo cultivates around 1,600 different species of plants. This horticultural aspect is integral to the zoo's mission, with planting schemes designed to support animal welfare, recreate natural habitats, and enhance the visitor experience. The botanical collection also plays a role in plant conservation, with the zoo cultivating endangered species and participating in global exchange programs. The gardens have received recognition, including Gold awards in the Britain in Bloom competition.

Conservation and Breeding Achievements

Paignton Zoo has a strong commitment to conservation, evidenced by its successful breeding programs for threatened species. Recent achievements include the first successful hand-rearing of a pink pigeon squab using an innovative technique, contributing to the recovery of this species endemic to Mauritius. The zoo also celebrated the hatching of Chilean flamingo chicks, including one raised by a same-sex pair, and the fledging of a Socorro dove, a species extinct in the wild. In 2025, it achieved its first successful breeding of southern cassowary in two decades and was the only European collection to breed the species that year. The zoo has also managed delicate pregnancies, such as a Diana monkey giving birth after treatment for an ovarian tumor, and successfully bred endangered species like the king colobus monkey.

History and Development

Founded by Herbert Whitley, the zoo initially faced closures due to disputes over taxes. During World War II, it partnered with Chessington Zoo to house evacuated animals, operating as Devon Zoo and Circus. After the war, under new management, it evolved into Paignton Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Following Whitley's death in 1955, the zoo was placed into a charitable trust, which eventually became the Wild Planet Trust, a non-profit organization.

The zoo underwent significant redevelopment and modernization, particularly in the 1990s, with funding from the European Regional Development Fund supporting expansion and new exhibits. Notable additions included the Desert House, the Marie Le Fevre Ape Centre, and the Avian Breeding Centre. The early 21st century saw further developments such as Crocodile Swamp and Monkey Heights, alongside public art fundraising initiatives like the Great Gorilla Project and the Great Big Rhino Project. Despite challenges, including disease outbreaks and financial pressures, Paignton Zoo has continued to be a significant institution in zoological and horticultural conservation.