Hotels near the Paignton Zoo Environmental Park

Paignton Zoo Environmental Park is about much more than just displaying animals for its visitors' entertainment - it's devoted to preserving the world's natural heritage. The zoo has come a long way since it was first opened in 1923 by Herbert Whitely, a shy, eccentric millionaire.

Since the recent completion of its redevelopment plan, the park has become a haven for some of the world's most threatened and endangered animals. These include two critically endangered Black Rhino, both the Asian and African elephant, and the American Bison.

The zoo's commitment to conservation can be seen not only in the number of endangered species which find refuge in its grounds, but also in the existence of its Science Department. Relaunched in 1997 in order to expand the park's skills in "animal management science" (that's "how to look after the animals" to you and me), the Science Department has a resident Science Officer and parasitologist, as well as visiting students who help work on projects ranging from comparing different creatures' behaviour to improving their diet and nutrition.