Animals and Plants
We care for over 7,000 animals, representing over 400 different species. Conservation is at the heart of the Zoo and so around half of these are threatened. The Zoo is continually developing the highest standards of conservation and care of its animals and plants, making a real contribution to saving them from extinction.
Our Animals and Plants
These pages are designed to give you more detailed information on some of our animals and plants. We will be updating the details regularly so keep checking for the latest news.
2007 will be an exciting year for the Zoo as we will be progressing with major new developments, including the new home for our Orang-utans - Realm of the Red Ape.
With easy access to animal experiences through excellent TV documentaries it is worth pausing to consider the unique opportunities a Zoo like Chester provides.
Where else can people use their full range of senses to enjoy learning about animals and plants? You have to stand still for at least five minutes in the Twilight Zone Bat Cave to understand that bats are flying all around. Islands in Danger gives you some feeling of the tropical rainforest and Spirit of the Jaguar transport you to the Central American jungle. A Zoo like Chester can do all this and more in the context of conservation and education.
All Zoos have a duty to care for their animals and plants, so they are kept in the best conditions. Here at Chester, we constantly review the housing and care, so that refurbishment and rebuilding are continuous. There is a similar review of vetinary care and nutrition and our Animal Health Centre provides great facilities for our Zoo Veterinary Team.
As we learn more and more through breeding and behavioural research, we will be able to make even greater contributions to the animal world with your help as visitors, members or adopters.