The Bristol Zoo is 186 years old, making it one of the oldest zoos. It opened in 1836. At the time, the animals were contributed by rich citizens.
On 3rd September, 2022, it closed its doors for visitors for good.
The zoo has welcomed over 90 million people over the years and its conservation efforts have saved many species from extinction.
It was the first in the UK to successfully breed the increasingly rare black rhino.
It was the subject of a weekly BBC show titled ‘Animal Magic’ which ran for 21 years, from 1962 until 1983.
As the zoo closed, BBC released a video clip from its archives – 1978.
After 186 years, Bristol Zoo opens its gates to the public one last time today. While the historic Clifton location will close, it will commence life at a new site in 2024.
— BBC Archive (@BBCArchive) September 3, 2022
Back in 1978 Nationwide went to find out what it took to run the fifth oldest zoo in the world. pic.twitter.com/bQdT8RdQuR
Long lines on the last day
Many visitors also shared their experiences and memories with the zoo.
What happened?
The Bristol zoo has made losses for the last 4 out of 6 years. The pandemic made it difficult to continue operations.
What happens now?
The Bristol Zoological Charity, which runs the Bristol Zoo, has announced that:
A. The sale of the site (12 acres) is currently underway.
B. The place will be open to the public at no charge.
C. The animals will remain in their current homes until they find new ones.
D. Many of the animals will be transferred to The Wild Place – their conservation project, located in South Gloucestershire.
The Wild Place is open to visitors already.
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