Jersey Zoo has a mission to save species from extinction. Situated in the Parish of Trinity, it’s arguably Jersey’s most popular visitor attraction. Established in 1959 by author and conservationist Gerald Durrell (1925 to 1995), the zoo occupies 32 acres, holds over 100 different species of animal, and attracts about 240,000 visits per year.
The zoo concentrates its efforts on some of the world’s most endangered species, such as Madagascar’s gentle lemur, the Montserrat mountain chicken frog and the Livingstone’s fruit bat.
The zoo’s inhabitants are housed in distinct areas:
• the Jewel of the Forest aviary holds Asian birds such as the Mindanao bleeding-heart dove and the hooded pitta;
• the Cloud Forest is a mixed enclosure whose inhabitants include the Andean bear, the ring-tailed coati and the black & gold howler monkey;
The Kirindy Forest is home to three species of lemur, including the gentle lemur, the red-fronted brown lemur and the ring-tailed lemur. Next door you’ll find the Kirindy walk-through aviary, home to hamerkops and Madagascar teals. Nearby enclosures are also home to the aye-aye and the narrow striped mongoose.
• the Reptile and Amphibian Centre holds Galapagos giant tortoises, blue poison-dart frogs and Lesser Antillean iguanas; and
• the Discovery Desert exhibit houses a family of meerkats.
Western lowland gorillas, Sumatran orangutans, Sulawesi crested black macaques and tamarins can also be found along the way!
The zoo also offers a variety of educational events, and contains an organic farm, children’s play area and two eateries. A great family day out.
Where? Jersey Zoo is four miles from St Helier, in the Parish of Trinity, off the B31. Free parking for over 350 cars. Also on bus routes: 3a, 3b and 23. Liberty Bus Timetable
When? Open every day, except Christmas Day – Hours – Summer Season: 09:30 to 18:00, Winter Season: 09:30 to 17:00
ADMISSIONS
Entry to Jersey Adult: £18.00, Senior: £16.00, Student: £16.00, Child: £14.00, Under 3: Free! Child: 3-16. Senior: 65+. Student: 17-22, available on production of a valid student ID card
Useful Links
Durrell Behind The Scenes Experience
Durrell Cafe, Restaurant And TakeAway
Durrell Gift And Online Charity Shops