South Lakes Safari Zoo, located in Cumbria, England, is a captivating wildlife park that boasts a diverse array of over 1,000 animals representing more than 150 species. Established in 1994, this remarkable zoo has become a haven for rare and endangered species, offering visitors a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with a wide range of fascinating creatures.

Unique Animal Encounters

One of the standout features of South Lakes Safari Zoo is its commitment to providing visitors with immersive experiences. Visitors can hand-feed giraffes, penguins, and other animals, allowing them to forge a deeper connection with the wildlife. The “Zookeeper for a Day” program takes this a step further, enabling visitors to work alongside the dedicated keepers and learn about the intricacies of animal care.

Diverse Species Showcase

The zoo’s impressive collection of animals includes a wide range of species, from the majestic Honey Badgers and Nyala to the captivating Plains Zebra, Southern White Rhinoceros, and Wildebeest. Visitors can also marvel at the Kordofan Giraffe, Jaguars, Snow Leopards, African Lions, and Sumatran Tigers, among other impressive predators.

Primate Powerhouses

South Lakes Safari Zoo is home to a diverse array of primate species, including the adorable Cotton Top Tamarin, the playful Giant Otter, and the impressive Howler Monkey, Siamang, and Colombian Spider Monkey. Visitors can also observe the fascinating behaviors of the Baboons, Red Kangaroo, and Grey Kangaroo.

Marsupial Marvels

The zoo’s collection of marsupials is equally impressive, with the Parma Wallaby, Emu, and Bettong captivating visitors with their unique characteristics and adaptations.

Lemur Lovelies

South Lakes Safari Zoo is home to a variety of lemur species, including the striking Black & White Ruffed Lemur, the iconic Ring Tailed Lemur, and the vibrant Red Ruffed Lemur.

Carnivore Connoisseurs

Visitors can also encounter a range of carnivorous species, such as the Red Panda, Canada Lynx, and Raccoon, each with their own fascinating behaviors and adaptations.

Avian Admirers

The zoo’s aviary is a true delight, showcasing a diverse array of bird species, including the majestic Andean Condor, the graceful Black Vulture and Turkey Vulture, the unique Inca Tern, and a variety of waterfowl such as the White Faced Whistling Duck, Ringed Teal, Roseate Spoonbill, Black Crowned Night Heron, Cattle Egret, Glossy Ibis, and White Spoonbill.

Colorful Companions

The zoo’s collection of parrots and macaws is equally impressive, with the Green Wing Macaw, Scarlet Macaw, Blue & Gold Macaw, and Red Fronted Macaw adding vibrant splashes of color to the landscape.

Waterfowl Wonders

South Lakes Safari Zoo is also home to a variety of waterfowl species, including the Mandarin Duck, Fulvous Whistling Duck, American Wood Duck, White Stork, Coscoroban Swan, Egyptian Goose, Barnacle Goose, Black Swan, Chiloe Wigeon, Sacred Ibis, Barheaded Goose, Magellan Goose, Crested Duck, Hawaiian Goose, Ferruginous Duck, and Comb Duck.

Avian Artistry

The zoo’s aviary also showcases a range of pheasant species, such as the Golden Pheasant, Satyr Tragopan, and Tremincks Tragopan, as well as the captivating Common Shellduck, Sharp Wing Teal, and Ruddy Shellduck.

Ongoing Improvements

While the zoo has faced some challenges in the past, including the loss of its license in 2017 and concerns raised about animal welfare, the current management has made efforts to address these issues and improve the overall conditions for the animals. However, a recent report by the Born Free Foundation in 2022 indicates that there is still room for improvement in meeting the required standards for modern zoos.

Visiting South Lakes Safari Zoo

South Lakes Safari Zoo is open every day from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, except for Christmas Day. The entry price for adults is £16.50, while children between the ages of 3 and 15 pay £11.50. Children under the age of 3 enter for free.

The zoo is located at 54°10′00″N 3°10′07″W / 54.1666°N 3.1686°W, making it a convenient destination for visitors in the Cumbria region.

References:
– TripAdvisor Review
– Born Free Foundation Report
– South Lakes Safari Zoo Official Website
– Wikipedia Article
– South Lakes Safari Zoo Website