The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) is the proud owner of Whipsnade Zoo, a renowned wildlife conservation and education center located in Dunstable, Bedfordshire, England. As a registered charity under English law, ZSL has been dedicated to the preservation of animals and their habitats since its establishment in 1826.

The Founding of Whipsnade Zoo

In 1926, ZSL purchased a derelict farm near Whipsnade village for £13,480 (12s 10d) to establish the zoo. Building work began immediately, and animals began arriving in 1928. When Whipsnade Park Zoo opened on 23 May 1931, it was an immediate success, welcoming tens of thousands of excited visitors in its opening week.

The Unique Features of Whipsnade Zoo

Whipsnade Zoo is known for its distinctive, chalk, hill figure of a white lion, which measures a gargantuan 147m from nose to tail. This impressive landmark was completed in 1933. During the Second World War, the Whipsnade White Lion had to be camouflaged with green paint, turf, and netting to avoid detection.

Another unique feature of Whipsnade Zoo is its “open zoo” concept, which was the first of its kind in Europe. This allows visitors to explore the zoo on foot, by car, or by using the 2 ft 6 in (762 mm) narrow gauge Great Whipsnade Railway, also known as the “Jumbo Express.”

The Zoo’s Conservation Efforts

As part of the Zoological Society of London, Whipsnade Zoo is dedicated to the conservation of animals and their habitats. The zoo is home to hundreds of animals, some of which are allowed to roam freely in an “Asian” area, providing visitors with a unique and immersive experience.

During the Second World War, Whipsnade Zoo also acted as a refuge for animals evacuated from London Zoo, further demonstrating its commitment to animal welfare and conservation.

Fundraising and Partnerships

ZSL, the owner of Whipsnade Zoo, supports its conservation efforts through a range of fundraising activities, including corporate partnerships and filming opportunities. These partnerships help to ensure that the zoo can continue its important work in protecting and preserving the natural world.

Conclusion

The Zoological Society of London’s ownership of Whipsnade Zoo has been instrumental in the zoo’s success and its dedication to animal conservation. From its unique features to its wartime role as a refuge, Whipsnade Zoo continues to be a beloved destination for visitors and a vital hub for wildlife preservation.

References:
– Zoological Society of London
– Whipsnade Zoo
– Whipsnade Zoo on Wikipedia