First opened nearly 180 years ago, Bristol Zoo Gardens is first and foremost a conservation charity, protecting species both in the UK and across the globe. It allows visitors to learn more about animals in the wild – especially endangered ones.
For instance, the Negros bleeding heart dove is only found in the islands of Negros and Panay in the centre of the Philippines, and there are thought to be fewer than 300 birds left in the wild. The island of Negros has only 4% of its original forest cover remaining and the zoo is working with the local community to protect the remaining forest, introduce new methods of agriculture and livelihood opportunities. Although the species is not kept at the zoo, the closely related Luzon and Mindanao bleeding heart doves can both be seen in the forest of birds.
Other animals amongst the over 400 species include gorillas, penguins, lemurs and bats, and you can even hand-feed parrots. Animal shows, talks and feeds take place throughout the day.
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Bristol Zoo Gardens
Bristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, Bristol, United Kingdom
First opened nearly 180 years ago, Bristol Zoo Gardens is first and foremost a conservation charity, protecting species both in the UK and across the globe. It allows visitors to learn more about animals in the wild – especially endangered ones.
Wildlife you might see at Bristol Zoo Gardens
African Penguin
Also widely known as the "jackass" penguin for its donkey-like bray. Like all penguins it is flightless, with a streamlined…
Livingstone Fruit Bat
Found only in the Comoros islands of the western Indian Ocean. It is the largest and rarest of the comorian…
Rainbow Lorikeet
It is a species of Australasian parrot, and has a very bright plumage. The head is deep blue, the belly…
Luzon Bleeding-heart Dove
Given the name from the splash of vivid red colour found at the centre of their breasts, the Luzon having…
Mindanao Bleeding-heart Dove
Named for the distinctive red blotch found on its breast. It is a bird belonging to the pigeon family and…
Ring-tailed Lemur
Endemic to the island of Madagascar and highly recognised for its long, black and white ringed tail. Despite being the…
Western Lowland Gorilla
One of two subspecies of the western gorilla, it is the smallest and can be found in Central Africa, in…
Red Panda
Native to the eastern Himalayas and southwestern China, it is a small arboreal mammal classified as vulnerable with an estimated…
Pygmy Hippo
It is a small hippopotamid, half the size of the common hippopotamus, native to the forests and swamps of West…
Family and group offers at Bristol Zoo Gardens
Families
Members can bring guests along for an unlimited 20% off.
Groups
Autumn tours of the beautiful botanic gardens and guided history walks are available. Guided ‘walks and talks’ around the zoo are offered on the following subjects:
- Conservation and Endangered Species
- History of Bristol Zoo Gardens – from Brunel to Biodiversity
- The Role of the Modern Zoo.
Great discounts of up to 32% on entry prices for groups of 10 or more visitors. Event organisers receive free entry, plus special arrangements are in place for coach drivers.
To help plan your visit, why not think about booking in for a free familiarisation visit.