The sunshine finally graced us this month and the Park grounds are bursting into life with beautiful spring flowers and the first signs of blossom on the trees. Some of our newest arrivals have certainly been enjoying the warmer weather here at the Park; the youngest Black and White Colobus Monkey, named Pili, has been happily exploring the outdoor enclosure alongside her family members. She can often be seen playing and climbing on the netting, cuddling with mum Lexi, and practicing her somersaults!
Juniper, the baby Coppery Titi Monkey has also been venturing outside more and is developing really well. Head of Primates Nat said: “Juniper, our 4-month-old Coppery Titi Monkey is such an inquisitive little character. In the last few weeks, he’s been seen exploring the enclosure on his own, but not too far from his family. He’s also been trying a variety of new foods, all of which have been a huge hit!
Titi Monkeys really are the sweetest primates and the team is so thrilled to have Juniper as the newest member of our growing family.”
You can find Pili and the Black and White Colobus Monkeys opposite the Emu enclosure near the car park and Juniper, along with the rest of the Coppery Titi Monkey family, can be seen opposite the Madagascar walkthrough.
This spring also sees the start of breeding season for many of our bird species and occasionally the keepers have to step in and assist by hand rearing. Currently the keepers are caring for Palawan Peacock Pheasant chicks, which has meant feedings round the clock!
DID YOU KNOW?
Male Palawan Peacock Pheasants have iridescent feathers that shimmer and shine in the sunlight!
On your visit this spring you may notice the children’s farmyard has had a few upgrades, with new fencing around the Oxford Sandy and Black Pigs and our African Pygmy Goat paddocks.
As some of you may remember, last year six African Pygmy Goat kids were born on our farm and they have now grown into such wonderful little characters!
The keepers that work on the children’s farmyard had the privilege of coming up with their names; Tintin, The Mooster, Grace, Forrest, Little Dave Jr, Dexter and Fodzilla (who you will instantly recognise due to his beautifully fluffy fringe).
Make sure you pop by the children’s farmyard and say hello to all of the African Pygmy Goats in our walkthrough on your next visit!
EXTRA EXTRA!
April is ‘National Pet Month’ and as the Park has proudly been a dog-friendly attraction since we opened in 1970, we are always happy to welcome the canine members of your families to the Park to enjoy a day out alongside you!
Your dog can enjoy most of the Park grounds with you on a short lead; there are only certain areas, including those with free-roaming animals, in which they aren’t permitted to go. These include: Madagascar, Tropical House, Giraffe House (and walkway), Reptile and Amphibian Houses and the Oak Tree Restaurant. We provide several drinking stations for dogs across the Park near the Restaurant, Kiosks and in the Courtyard. Please note: dogs must be under adult supervision at all times and never left unattended.
*Reminder*: Sunday 30th March 2025 marked the start of our summer opening times so please may we remind you that the Park is open daily from 10.00am and our closing time will change to 6:00pm, with last admission at 4:00pm – thank you.