South Lakes Safari Zoo is a captivating 51-acre (21 ha) zoo located in Cumbria, England, nestled near the breathtaking Lake District. Established in 1994 by David Gill, this remarkable zoo is home to over 1,000 animals representing more than 150 species, making it a true haven for animal enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Admission and Packages
Visiting South Lakes Safari Zoo is an affordable and accessible experience for all. The zoo offers a variety of admission and package options to cater to the diverse needs of its visitors:
| Admission Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Summer Admission | £5 |
| Admission & Hand Feed Packages | £30 |
In addition to the standard admission, the zoo also provides a range of exciting experiences and encounters for visitors:
- Experiences:
- Keeper experiences for children: £35
- Encounters for 4 people: £99
- 20% OFF Summer Sloth encounters
- 20% OFF Summer Red Panda Encounters
- Junior Keeper Experiences: £35
For group and school visits, the zoo offers discounted admission for groups of 15 or more paying visitors, pre-purchase meal vouchers with 10% off, free all-day coach parking, and free admission for coach drivers. Additionally, a comprehensive booking pack with health and safety information, talk and feeding times, and a park map is emailed upon booking.
Animal Welfare Concerns
While South Lakes Safari Zoo has been a popular destination for many, it has also faced some challenges regarding animal welfare. In 2022, the Born Free Foundation visited the zoo and reported concerns about the living conditions and care of the animals.
The key issues identified include:
- Solitary animals, which can be detrimental to their social and psychological well-being
- Signs of zoochosis, a behavioral disorder observed in captive animals
- Lack of adequate enrichment, which is crucial for the animals’ mental and physical stimulation
- Inadequate heating, which can compromise the animals’ comfort and health
It’s important to note that the zoo had previously made headlines in 2017 for losing its license after a keeper was killed by a tiger and following the deaths of nearly 500 animals over three years. Since regaining a license under new management, there have been attempts to improve some areas, but observations suggest that animal living conditions and procedures still fail to meet required standards in many respects.
Unique Features and Attractions
Despite the concerns, South Lakes Safari Zoo offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors. Some of the zoo’s standout features and attractions include:
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Diverse Animal Collection: The zoo is home to over 1,000 animals representing more than 150 species, ranging from majestic big cats to playful primates and fascinating reptiles.
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Proximity to the Lake District: The zoo’s location in Cumbria, near the stunning Lake District, provides a picturesque backdrop for the animal exhibits and enhances the overall visitor experience.
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Hands-on Experiences: The zoo offers a variety of interactive experiences, such as the Keeper experiences and Encounters, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the animals under the guidance of trained professionals.
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Educational Opportunities: South Lakes Safari Zoo aims to educate visitors about the importance of conservation and the natural world, with informative signage and interactive displays throughout the zoo.
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Ongoing Improvements: While the zoo has faced challenges in the past, the current management is working to address the concerns and implement measures to improve the animals’ living conditions and overall visitor experience.
Conclusion
South Lakes Safari Zoo is a complex and multifaceted attraction that offers both captivating experiences and thought-provoking considerations. As a visitor, it’s essential to approach the zoo with an open mind, appreciating the unique opportunities it provides while also being mindful of the ongoing animal welfare concerns.
By staying informed, engaging with the zoo’s educational resources, and advocating for the highest standards of animal care, visitors can play a role in shaping the future of South Lakes Safari Zoo and contribute to the broader conversation around responsible and ethical zoo management.
References
- Safari Zoo Shop. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://shop.cumbriazoo.co.uk
- South Lakes Safari Zoo. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.southlakessafarizoo.com
- South Lakes Safari Zoo. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g15185296-d637583-Reviews-South_Lakes_Safari_Zoo-Lindal_in_Furness_Cumbria_England.html
- Born Free Foundation. (2022, October 17). Investigation: Safari Zoo, Cumbria. Retrieved from https://www.bornfree.org.uk/raise-the-red-flag/south-lakes-safari-zoo/
- South Lakes Safari Zoo. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Lakes_Safari_Zoo