Endangered species breeding programmes
Many of the species in the Zoo are endangered in the wild and are managed in captivity as part of co-operative breeding programmes with other zoos in the UK and Europe. These programmes are managed by the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA). Each species has a studbook keeper and programme co-ordinator who recommends suitable pairings to prevent inbreeding, maintain maximum genetic diversity and ensure the captive population is genetically healthy. For more information on captive breeding programmes visit the EAZA website.
Around 100 species at Paignton Zoo are included in formal breeding programmes. Zoo staff co-ordinate European breeding programmes for white-faced saki monkeys, Sulawesi crested black macaques, Abyssinian colobus monkeys and red-tailed amazons. They also monitor the EAZA populations of blue crowned motmot, European turtle dove and pied imperial pigeon.
Native species recovery programmes
Paignton Zoo collaborates with Natural England and other organisations in a range of species recovery programmes for British wildlife, including the hazel dormouse, interrupted brome and the cirl bunting. Please visit the UK Conservation section for more information on the Zoo’s work with native species.
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