Whipsnade Zoo houses wildlife like lions, pandas, and elephants worldwide. Animals here are primarily kept in enclosures. Some animals roam freely, and the public can visit them. Located in Luton,
Whipsnade Zoo is a different world itself. The well-maintained zoo provides many fun activities and adventures for families, friends, and individuals. Explore the wonderful animal kingdom at Whipsnade Zoo today!
whipsnadezoo.org
1. The Narrative
Whipsnade Zoo is spread across 600 acres of land. Since it has such a vast expanse, a bus service is available for visitors. Visitors can drive their cars near animal enclosures in the Asian area. The zoo also has a train network known as the Great Whipsnade Railway. You can enjoy a ride on the “Jumbo Express” here.
Whipsnade Zoo is the largest zoo in the United Kingdom. It is also the largest wildlife conservation park in Europe. It is home to approximately 3,626 animals, including rare species like Peafowl, Patagonian Maras, and Red Necked Wallabies that roam freely in their enclosures.
1.1 Additional Information
Address: Whipsnade, Dunstable LU6 2LF, United Kingdom
Contact Number: +44 344 225 1826
Website: www.whipsnadezoo.org
2. A Quick History
Since its opening, Whipsnade Zoo has been one of the most prominent zoos in the UK. The main goal behind opening this zoo was to encourage the protection of animals and their habitats.
Pheasants, llamas, wombats, and skunks were among the first animals brought here. The zoo was initially named Whipsnade Park Zoo when it was opened on May 23rd, 1931. It was able to gather thousands of visitors in the first week itself. Since then, Whipsnade Zoo has played a significant role in the Zoological Society of London’s commitment to global animal preservation.
3. Notable Animals Collection
The zoo boasts a fantastic variety of animals and birds like-
- Red Panda
- African dwarf crocodile
- African Lion
- Przewalski’s horse
- African penguin
- Amur tiger
- Asian Elephant
- White-faced scops owl
- Asian short-clawed otter
- Burrowing Owl
- Greater one-horned rhino
- Marabou stork
- Panther Chameleon
- Père David’s deer
- Rockhopper penguin
Apart from these, many other animals are also there.
4. Recent Changes
In 1996, a new home was developed for elephants as a replacement for the old one at the zoo. The old home, designed by Tecton and Lubetkin in 1935, is now a Grade II listed building. Whipsna currently houses lemurs. Shows like the Lions of the Serengeti and the Rhinos of Nepal were added in 2000. These exhibits have brought in more visitors.
5. Best Food and Drink Options at Whipsnade Zoo.
When it comes to satiating hungry stomachs, the Zoo has some great options. There are many cafes and restaurants, like the visitor’s center cafe near the entrance.
Once inside, you can visit Viewpoint Kitchen and Deli, which serves fantastic food and amazing views of white rhinos and downs on each side. There is a cafe known as Hullabaloo Kids Cafe that is dedicated entirely to kids and has great sandwich options.
To check the opening timing and menus of these places, visit the food and drinks section of the Whipsnade Zoo online website
6. Exposition
6.1. Butterfly House
A beautiful butterfly house was inaugurated here in 2016. It is a chrysalis-shaped habitat with tropical experience and much to learn about nature. It consists of many rare butterflies and dwarf crocodiles. Numerous butterflies were brought here, making it the most giant butterfly biome in the United Kingdom.
As you travel through the butterfly domain, you can observe the complete life cycle of a butterfly in the engaging Metamorphosis zone. This zone has keepers that show the living stages of butterflies and the details of raising butterflies. In this show, people can walk through the flying butterflies. The visitors were allowed to play with them.
6.2. Birds of the World
Birds of the World show has some of the best birds at the demonstration. Here, the keepers explain about bird species. This show has majestic eagles, falcons, parrots, ducks, etc. Their abilities and uniqueness are presented in their majestic flights over your head.
Good training techniques by skilled trainers help them achieve the jaw-dropping demonstration for this show. To bring uniqueness to the front, new birds are added each year. Hence, you can expect something different on your next visit. It is truly unique to see the birds fly right over your head in this fantastic show.
6.3. Wild Wild Whipsnade
Wild Whipsnade, established in 2010, is committed to preserving endangered British wildlife, such as wild boars, wolverines, and European bison.
6.4. Cheetah Rock
Visitors can learn about cheetah conservation through the ZSL conservation project in Tanzania. Three cheetahs were relocated from Ireland in 2022, while Sudan cheetahs from Northeast Africa can also be found here.
Visitors can learn about cheetah conservation through the ZSL conservation project in Tanzania. Three cheetahs were relocated from Ireland in 2022, while Sudan cheetahs from Northeast Africa can also be found here.
whipsnadezoo.org
6.5. Passage Through Asia
Passage Through Asia is a large paddock. Here, the visitors can interact easily with the animals. They can drive their cars near the enclosures. The Jumbo Express train is also a choice for riding. You can find herds of Fallow deer, Yaks, Bactrian camels, and Sika deer in this zoo section.
6.6. Children’s Farm
Chidren’s Farm is specifically designed for children’s entertainment. It houses many domestic animals that roam freely here. Visitors are also allowed to interact with the domestic animals.
You can meet a variety of livestock animals, such as chickens, cows, llamas, and goats. You will also get to meet Pip, Bennett’s wallaby. After her mother abandoned her, keepers took her under their care.
6.7. Rhinos of Nepal
The Rhinos of Nepal was established in February 2008 and currently houses four rhinos from India – Bali, Hugo, Behan, and Beluki. The zoo has adopted many eco-friendly methods.
They have started reusing rainwater to heat their pools, and they are harnessing solar energy. The use of metal bars is avoided for the safety of animals. Using recycled wooden railway sleepers makes this place more suitable and eco-friendly.
6.8. Elephant Herd
Nine Asian elephants have been brought into the elephant herd section. Some calves were obtained under the European Endangered Species Program. This site is spread over an area of seven acres. Mud wallows, pools, and dust baths have been made here for elephants to live comfortably in a natural environment.
A calf born on the queen’s birthday was named Elizabeth. An indoor arrangement named Centre for Elephant Care is also available here.
whipsnadezoo.org/
7. Financing
The state government does not contribute to the funding of this place. The funding requirements are met with the zoo entrance fees. The Budget also relies upon the ‘Fellows’ and ‘Patrons’ schemes and zoo memberships. Moreover, the various corporate sponsorships have helped this zoo a lot. The Gift Aid charity donation scheme also contributes to the Budget.
8. Television Series Filming
Whipsnade Zoo has been set for many television series. Primeval had been shot over here. The famous BBC show “Super Vets” was filmed over here. In 1991, an episode of Brum was shot here. The producers titled the episode “Safari Park.”
Jamie Oliver used the zoo’s environment to film an advertisement in 2001. Season 1 of Merlin was filmed in the zoo. Young, Dumb, and Living Off Mum’s tasks were organized here. Tots TV has visited the Whipsnade Zoo, too.
Conclusion
Whipsnade Zoo is nothing but a treat to the eyes. It helps in exploring new species of animals and in learning more about wildlife. Visitors can observe many endangered species. Visiting this zoo will be valued at every penny. It’s one of the most incredible places for animal lovers.
Last Updated on March 8, 2024 by riyaspeaks
