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Ongoing updates and improvements

Paignton Zoo thrilled to be re-opening

Paignton Zoo is delighted that they will be re-opening their gates to guests on Monday 12th April after being closed for a third time during the coronavirus pandemic since 5th January

The zoo will initially open to Annual Pass holders on the first two days and will then re-open fully to everyone The numbers of guests will be limited each day and all guests will be required to book an entry time slot including Annual Pass holders before they visit This can be done on-line through the website www.paigntonzoo.org.uk.

  • In addition the following safety measures will be in place:
  • Protective screening at contact points This includes the admission desks food outlets and shop
  • Card payments are preferred
  • Hand sanitiser points around the zoos
  • Regular cleaning will be carried out around the zoos
  • Signage around the zoos to remind guests and staff of social distancing and handwashing guidelines
  • Suggested one-way routes around the sites
  • No feeding times or keepers talks to prevent gathering of crowds
  • No face painting
  • The restaurants will be offering a takeaway service only Other food outlets will be open around the zoo

While the zoo has been closed the team has been busy making improvements to lots of areas of the zoo The Ranch home to the pygmy goats has had a refresh with JD the pot-bellied pig moving shortly down to this area. The Ouessant sheep have also moved to a new home in the zoo in the larger paddock next to the rhinos and after spending the winter in the warmth of their house the Aldabra giant tortoises are now able to spend time outside in the spring sunshine.

Lots of maintenance work has taken place with the main boardwalk in Monkey Heights and at the wobbly bridge in Lemur Wood At this time of year the Gardens team have also done an exceptional job looking after the zoo grounds making sure exhibits green spaces and borders are looking tidy and bright for guests staff and native wildlife to enjoy!

In addition when the zoo is able to re-open their indoor areas guests will be able to enjoy the refurbished tropical and desert houses now named Tropical Trails and Arid Lands Crocodile Swamp has had a refresh too with all of the pools being completely drained cleaned and refilled There will also be some new species to spot in the Amphibian Ark exhibit.

For more information about how to book and the safety measures that Paignton Zoo has put in place please visit www.paigntonzoo.org.uk

Paignton Zoo is part of Wild Planet Trust They are both registered charities striving to conserve species and habitats and to inspire and empower people to help in the fight to protect wildlife For more information visit www.paigntonzoo.org.uk and www.wildplanettrust.org.uk