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Peak Wildlife Park

Peak Wildlife Park is a zoo located in central England, re-established in 2015 after the closure of its predecessor, Blackbrook Zoological Park. It operates with a focus on conservation and education, housing a diverse collection of birds, mammals, and reptiles.

Key Facts

  • Originally established as Blackbrook Zoological Park in 1991.
  • Reopened as Peak Wildlife Park in 2015 after a period of administration.
  • Features a variety of animals including penguins, meerkats, lemurs, zebras, and red pandas.
  • The zoo became a charity in 2008, emphasizing conservation and education.
  • Received no government grants during its operation as Blackbrook Zoological Park.
Peak Wildlife Park
Founding Year
1991
Notable Exhibits

Penguin Exhibit

Notable Animals

Humboldt Penguin, Meerkat, Black-and-White Ruffed Lemur, Maneless Zebra, Red Panda

About Peak Wildlife Park

Peak Wildlife Park is a zoological institution situated in central England, near the towns of Leek, Ashbourne, and Stoke-on-Trent. Originally established in 1991 as Blackbrook Zoological Park by Diana Holloway and her son, Mark Rubery, the park has undergone a transformation. Holloway, who had prior experience managing Hillside Bird Oasis since 1974, developed Blackbrook into a significant bird collection. Following her passing in 2006, her son Mark continued the operation.

History and Development

Significant developments occurred at Blackbrook Zoological Park, particularly in its later years. In 2006, a new entrance, gift shop, and café were constructed. A substantial £500,000 penguin exhibit was added in 2008. Notably, Hillside Bird Oasis, though forced to close to the public in 2002 due to traffic complaints, continued as a private breeding facility. In 2008, Blackbrook Zoological Park transitioned into a charity, intensifying its focus on conservation and education. It is recorded that the zoo did not receive government grants.

Re-establishment and Current Focus

Blackbrook Zoological Park entered administration and subsequently closed in 2014. The site was then purchased by Jake Veasey and Colin MacDougall, who reopened it in 2015 under its current name, Peak Wildlife Park. The park continues to house a diverse array of animals, including various bird species, mammals such as meerkats, lemurs, zebras, and red pandas, as well as reptiles like the African spurred tortoise.

Source: Wikipedia ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Peak Wildlife Park established?

Peak Wildlife Park was re-established in 2015. Its predecessor, Blackbrook Zoological Park, was originally established in 1991 by Diana Holloway and her son, Mark Rubery.

What was the previous name of Peak Wildlife Park?

The zoo was originally known as Blackbrook Zoological Park. It entered administration and closed in 2014 before being purchased and reopened under its current name.

What types of animals can be seen at Peak Wildlife Park?

Peak Wildlife Park exhibits a range of animals including birds like Humboldt penguins and chickens, mammals such as meerkats, lemurs, zebras, and red pandas, and reptiles like the African spurred tortoise.

Does Peak Wildlife Park receive government funding?

During its time as Blackbrook Zoological Park, the zoo received no government grants. Information regarding current government funding for Peak Wildlife Park is not specified.

What is the focus of Peak Wildlife Park?

The zoo became a charity in 2008 and began to focus on conservation and education. This focus continues under its current operation as Peak Wildlife Park.