The Absence of Reptiles at South Lakes Zoo

According to a recent TripAdvisor review, the South Lakes Safari Zoo in Lindal-in-Furness, Cumbria, England, does not have any reptiles on display. This may come as a disappointment to visitors who were hoping to see a diverse range of reptilian species during their visit.

The Zoo’s Animal Collection

While the zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including mammals, birds, and other species, the lack of reptiles in the collection is a notable omission. The zoo’s website does not mention any reptiles in its list of animals, focusing instead on its impressive collection of mammals, such as Honey Badgers, Nyala, Plains Zebra, Southern White Rhinoceros, Wildebeest, and Kordofan Giraffe, as well as its Big Cats section featuring Jaguars, Snow Leopards, African Lions, and Sumatran Tigers.

The South American and Australian Sections

The zoo also has a South American section that includes Cotton Top Tamarin, Giant Otter, Greater Rhea, Andean Bear, Capybara, Maned Wolf, and Howler Monkey, among others. The Australian section features Red Kangaroo, Grey Kangaroo, Parma Wallaby, Emu, and Bettong.

The Bird Collection

In addition to its mammal collection, the South Lakes Safari Zoo also boasts an impressive array of birds, including those in the Illescas Aviary, Tambopata Aviary, and Bush Birds sections. Some of the notable bird species found at the zoo include Andean Condor, Black Vulture, Turkey Vulture, Inca Tern, and a variety of macaws, ducks, geese, and pheasants.

The Adoption Program

The zoo offers an adoption program that allows visitors to adopt their favorite animal and receive benefits throughout the year. This program can be a great way for visitors to support the zoo’s conservation efforts and connect with the animals they encounter during their visit.

Criticism and Concerns

However, the South Lakes Safari Zoo has faced criticism for the treatment of its animals. A report published in 2024 highlighted the suffering of animals in the zoo, which has been referred to as the “South Lakes Horror Zoo” by animal rights organizations. This raises concerns about the overall well-being and care of the animals in the zoo’s collection.

Conclusion

While the South Lakes Safari Zoo offers a diverse collection of mammals and birds, the absence of reptiles may be a disappointment for some visitors. It is important for the zoo to address the concerns raised about the treatment of its animals and ensure that the well-being of all the creatures in its care is a top priority.

References:
– https://www.zoochat.com/community/threads/south-lakes-safari-zoo-news-2024.490272/
– https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g15185296-d637583-r898768481-South_Lakes_Safari_Zoo-Lindal_in_Furness_Cumbria_England.html
– https://www.southlakessafarizoo.com/animals/
– https://www.freedomforanimals.org.uk/news/animals-continue-to-suffer-in-south-lakes-horror-zoo
– https://www.southlakessafarizoo.com/animals/reptiles-and-more/