Whipsnade Zoo in the United Kingdom is home to a diverse array of owl species, each with its own captivating characteristics and behaviors. From the underground-dwelling Burrowing Owls to the majestic Snowy Owls, these feathered residents offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of these nocturnal predators.
Burrowing Owls: The Underground Dwellers
Burrowing Owls are the only owl species in the world that live underground. These unique birds make their homes in burrows left behind by other animals, such as prairie dogs or ground squirrels. With their long legs, Burrowing Owls are well-equipped to maintain their burrows and sprint after their prey, which includes moles, mice, insects, birds, amphibians, and reptiles.
Snowy Owls: The Arctic Monarchs
While not explicitly mentioned in the search results, Whipsnade Zoo’s online shop offers a Snowy Owl soft toy, suggesting that these majestic birds may be part of the zoo’s collection. Snowy Owls are large, white owls found in the Arctic regions of North America and Eurasia. These owls have distinctive rough bristles on their beaks and are known to hunt during both the day and night.
White-faced Owls: The Distinctive Africans
In 2012, Whipsnade Zoo introduced a baby white-faced owl named Gizmo in a YouTube video. White-faced owls are native to Africa and are characterized by their distinctive white facial discs. These small to medium-sized owls have rounded heads and no ear tufts, making them easily recognizable.
Visiting Whipsnade Zoo: Plan Your Adventure
Whipsnade Zoo offers a range of experiences for visitors to enjoy. Here are some key details to help you plan your visit:
Admission Costs
- Adult tickets: £32.50
- Child tickets (3-15 years): £23.00
- Children under 3 years: Free
Operating Hours
- Summer season: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Winter season: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Facilities and Amenities
- Directory and map available on the Whipsnade Zoo website
- Varying hours of operation for different facilities
Additional Experiences
- Close-up encounters
- Behind-the-scenes tours
- Animal adoptions
Conservation Efforts
Whipsnade Zoo is a member of the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), a science-driven conservation charity. By visiting the zoo, you are directly supporting their vital work to restore wildlife in the UK and around the world.
Whether you’re fascinated by the underground-dwelling Burrowing Owls, captivated by the majestic Snowy Owls, or intrigued by the distinctive White-faced Owls, Whipsnade Zoo offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse world of these remarkable avian residents.