Zoos have long been a way for the general public to get up close to wild and endangered animals and if you are a resident of, or are just visiting the UK we have an array of world famous zoos and safari parks. Conservation and education are now key factors in Zoos across england and many schools now plan zoo trips into the curriculum. Some are better than others, but here is a quick run down of some of the most popular in Britain.
London Zoo in Regents park is probably the most famous due to its city location and excellent transport links. Opened in 1828 it is probably the worlds oldest scientific zoo. WIth over 700 species and 15,000 animals in terms of pure numbers London Zoo has the largest collection in the UK. London Zoo receives no goverment funding and is fundedonly by sponsorship and ticket sales.
Marwell Zoological park is located in the South of england in hampshire not far from southampton. A registered chartity – marwell wildlife has a strong emphasis on animal conservation. During school term Marwell is frequented by school parties from the local area and in the holidays the park can get quite busy. Marwell homes over 200 species and 2000 animals and is approximately 140 acres in size
Longleat Safari Park is somewhat unusual in that it is a drive through park. With over 500 animals but set into a 9000 acre estate, longleat was actually one of the first in the world to offer the space for animals to roam free and visitors to view from their cars. Longleat is situated in wiltshire and has been open for over 40 years since 1966.
Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire is perhaps europes largest conservation wildlife park with over 6500 animals and 600 species. The 600 acre park offers like longleat the ability to drive through some of the enclosures or visitors can catch a train service. Opened in 1931 whipsnade has been a pionerring animal conservation zoo for many years.
The UK has a large number of smaller Zoos less than 30 acres spanning the length of the country. Jersey Zoo, Isle of Wight Zoo and Edinburgh Zoos are good examples of more localised zoological attractions and all share the same conservational views.
As a final note, its hugely important to the Zoos for both funding and education that you visit when you can especially if you have younger children and take the opportunity to introduce them to new species of animals face to face. Even if you do not live locally to a Zoo in the UK you are generally never more than an hours drive away from a popular Zoo.
About the Author:
cDc operates a UK Sightseeing and Attractions Guide
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – Popular Zoological Parks in the United Kingdom
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