Bristol Zoo Gardens, the fifth oldest zoo in the world, has closed after 186 years. Since opening in July 1836, the attraction has welcomed more than 90 million guests.
The zoo enjoyed more than 29,000 visitors in its final week. “This truly is an end of an era – an era full of wonderful memories for staff and visitors alike,” said Brian Zimmerman, Bristol Zoological Society’s director of conservation and science.
“Bristol Zoo Gardens holds a special place in the hearts of many and has become an institution in the city of Bristol.”
“While we recognise its importance and respect its legacy, the time has come for us to build a modern-day zoo with the right space for our animals that more closely reflects their natural habitats,” Zimmerman added.
The decision to close Bristol Zoo Gardens was announced in November 2020, with a new Bristol Zoo being created at the Wild Place Project in South Gloucestershire.
The new zoo will offer a wildlife experience focusing on conservation and education. 88 percent of its species will be linked to conservation programmes across the world, more than any other zoo in the UK.
The zoo’s troop of critically endangered western lowland gorillas and blue-eyed black lemurs will be moved to the new location.
Bristol Zoo Gardens opened in 1836
Bristol Zoo Gardens’ 12 acres have been home to animals including okapis, polar bears, brown bears, fur seals, penguins, elephants, crocodiles and flamingos.
Following planning permission, parts of the zoo’s old site will be developed for housing. The gardens will also open to the public free of charge for the first time in Bristol Zoo’s history.
Due to open in 2024, the new Bristol Zoo will be home to a group of endangered cherry-crowned mangabey monkeys, as well as endangered African grey parrots. It will also feature a new conservation learning centre and conservation medicine centre.
Images: Bristol Zoological Society
