You are here: IN TOUCH » FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

Animal FAQs:

Why keep animals in zoos?

All over the world animals are under pressure as their natural habitats are taken over or destroyed. Bringing animals and people closer together is one of the most effective ways to illustrate how important it is that we save as many species as possible. Zoos are vital as safe havens where endangered and vulnerable species can be bred.

Is it cruel to keep animals in cages?

Modern zoos take great care to design enclosures in which the animals will feel safe and secure and lead a full and stimulating life. The idea that all wild animals enjoy a carefree existence is far from the truth; most prey species lead a life of fear and anxiety. Many wild species must observe strict territorial limitations as well as artificial boundaries imposed on them by man.

Why keep species that are not endangered?

We have used the knowledge gained from keeping relatively common species with great success when dealing with related endangered species. Also, some species which are safe today are at risk of declining due to habitat loss, hunting etc. It makes good sense to hold viable breeding groups of some of these species to ensure their future.

Why not let all the animals stay in the wild?

For many species there is no longer anywhere to go. For example, there are more Asiatic Lions and Amur Leopards in captivity than in the wild, as their natural habitat has all but disappeared.

Extinction is estimated to be happening at two hundred times the 'natural' rate due to man's interference. If zoos do not breed endangered species and educate visitors, many more species will become extinct - we are trying to make a difference.

Are the lions bored?

There is no evidence to prove that wild lions cover vast distances for the joy of roaming or for exercise. To them travel represents an urgent necessity, which is to find and catch enough food to keep them alive. Wild lions spend up to 20 hours each day dozing - by choice.

Where do the animals come from?

Most of our animals are captive bred, either here or at other zoos around the world. Very few are taken from the wild and then only if there is a critical conservation reason.

Can we feed the animals?

All of our animals our on carefully controlled diets to ensure they maintain the best possible levels of health and wellbeing. Visitors are not permitted to feed the animals but can watch the Penguins being fed daily in the Walled Garden; for more information please visit our ‘things to do’ page.

Visitor FAQs:

Can we bring our dog to the Park?

Yes, we welcome dogs at the Park. Dogs must be kept on a lead and under control at all times and owners must clean up after their pet (bags are available at the paydesk). Dogs cannot be taken into indoor exhibits or areas where animals are free range (for example the Tropical House or the walk-through lake area).

Do you have wheelchairs for hire?

We have standard push-along wheelchairs available for visitors' use, which you should book in advance to check availability. We do not make a charge for hire but welcome donations to our chosen conservation charity.

Where can we have a picnic?

We have picnic tables outside the restaurant and undercover near to the car park; you can also picnic on any of the lawns around the Park.

What will the weather be like when we visit?

For up-to-date weather forecasts click here to visit the local met office website.

When will the Train be running?

The narrow gauge railway operates between April and October and some winter weekends. The running of the train is entirely dependent on good weather. A board is displayed at the train station to indicate if the train will run that day. To check if the train will be running in advance of your visit please contact the main office on 01993 823006.

Why don’t you have special reduced rates for the disabled?

We charge our standard rates for all visitors including the disabled but we have a reduced rate if they are from a registered charity or care home of six or more disabled and carers. Being a large, level site with excellent facilities (full access, toilets, wheelchair access and well-maintained paths, etc) we hope that all disabled visitors can enjoy the Park as much as any other visitor. Our pricing policy reflects our wish to treat all our visitors equally, while making every effort to ensure that all facilities, services and exhibits offered by The Park are as disabled-friendly as possible, within the financial constraints of the business.