Bristol Zoo

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[SECTION]Zoo? This place is a living, breathing museum and education centre![/SECTION]



has so much to offer. I went expecting to see a few animals, but left feeling truly inspired. With a vast array of wonderful and well cared for animals, stunning grounds and an ethos that champions conservation, this is an experience that is very special. Bristol is the world's fifth oldest Zoo (opening in July, 1836), and has to date saved over 175 species from extinction. You can find the Zoo on the edge of the open land known as 'Bristol Downs', in Clifton. I arrived by train and then on foot, via Clifton Down station, but there is a large car park and regular bus routes also. However you get there, what awaits you is magical.



My visit included an hour long conservation and animal welfare workshop, which really made the visit. A very learned member of the Zoo community gave a hands-on talk about conservation that included petting a python, combating illegal smuggling, identifying threats to endangered species and much, much more. If you visit, then I thoroughly recommend booking into the Educational Conservation centre .


[SECTION]Birds, Beasts and entertainment for little monkeys![/SECTION]

Although the Zoo is fairly compact, there is a vast variety of mammals, birds, reptiles and insects to see. What follows are just a few highlights. Having a free map to hand is a must, as planning a route that takes in all of the areas is vital.

**Gorilla Island- head over there at 12.30 for the feeding time talk
**/

With a glass-ceiling Gorilla house and an open area to see the Gorillas, this area was a real highlight. The gorillas looked happy and relaxed at feeding time, and amazed all spectators by catching their midday snacks.




[SECTION]Seals, Penguins and an Underwater Wonderland[/SECTION]

Subterranean tunnels and viewing windows, swooping seals and bobbing penguins all jostle for the viewer's attention. As with everywhere in the Zoo, there are also a wealth of informative and educational display boards telling visitors about the residents.







[SECTION] Boisterous Gibbons and serene Butterflies[/SECTION]

A serene contrast to Gorilla Island was the walk-through butterfly zone. You can stroll amidst wonderful tropical plants whilst butterflies flutter by you.





Alternatively, a stroll through the centre of the Zoo takes you past these Gibbons, Spider Monkeys and Howler monkey's, all of which looked like they were spelling out words to us with their arms.



Whatever you go to see, is a lovely space to spend time in. The care and pride that the staff have in the place is very plain to see, and the buildings and trees offer a rare glimpse into England's proud and creative past. Some of the buildings would not look out of place in a remote Indian palace or a foreign embassy, and yet they are placed just above one of the most dynamic and busy modern cities in England. Whether visiting Bristol for the first time or a long time resident, a trip here is something to cherish.



#child_friendly
#outdoor
#places_of_interest
#zoos
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