The Funky Site - Jersey Zoo

Jersey Zoo

Created 7th May 2004, last updated 7th May 2004.

Jersey Zoo is known worldwide for it's pioneering founder, Gerald Durrell. The zoo was started in 1959 when Gerald Durrell rented the facilities in order to try his new concept - a zoo for conservation, not just for entertainment. Having read about the history of the zoo and visited it recently (early May 2004), it's obvious that it's come a long way. While still only occupying just over twenty acres, the zoo feels much bigger due to a carefully planned and attractive layout. It feels more open compared to other zoos, a feeling enhanced by various animals roaming wild around the grounds.

Gerald Durrell passed away in 1995, and in 1999 the name of his trust (which runs Jersey Zoo) was renamed to the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust in honour of his achievements. The Trust is not just responsible for the zoo - a major part of it's work is research and education into endangered species. The Trust website has more information, including maps of the Zoo and information about opening times, location etc. A lot of background information can be found at the Good Zoos website.