Welsh Mountain Zoo

Animal Conservation in a Stunning Setting

© Victoria Turton

Oct 28, 2009
Tiger at the Mountain Zoo, V Turton
Perched high above the seaside resort of Colwyn Bay in North Wales, the Welsh Mountain Zoo houses a number of threatened or endangered species.

Set in stunning surroundings, nestled on the mountainside above Colwyn Bay and with panoramic views of the town and the bay, visitors will find a day out at the Welsh Mountain Zoo an exhilarating experience.

Although not a large zoo, the small size is part of the Mountain Zoo’s charm. Members of staff appear friendly and approachable, with a good knowledge of the different species but also of the individual personalities of the animals in their care. Having said that, there are plenty of animals and birds to keep everyone happy – from the primates to the parrots and the penguins.

Welsh Mountain Zoo Feeding & Education Shows

Each day features a program of talks and feeding shows, which give the visitor an opportunity to find out more about the animals and birds and watch them interacting with both each other and the keeper. The chimpanzee feeding show, for example, includes a short video introduction looking at the issues faced by chimpanzees in the wild, in terms of destruction of habitat and hunting.

The bird show features a range of different species, including the barn owl, but the real delight must be the advent of the penguins, who are shepherded from their enclosure to hurry over the brow of a hill to reach the arena, where they walk alongside visitors.

As the name suggests, the Welsh Mountain Zoo is pretty hilly in parts – a struggle for those with impaired mobility or those with pushchairs. However, there’s an easy pace about the place, as visitors can amble around without fear of missing something. The exposed site also means that it can be pretty chilly, with a brisk, ever-present wind, so visitors are advised to dress appropriately and wear suitable footwear.

Tigers & Red Squirrels

As well as the usual creatures visitors would expect to see on a trip to the zoo, such as tigers, reptiles and bears, the Welsh Mountain Zoo is home to a number of more unusual creatures, including a section dedicated to British wildlife, such as the native red squirrel and the golden eagle.

The café on site is also something of a treat (not only to rest tired legs), as the veranda overlooks the Tiger enclosure, allowing excellent, unrestricted viewing of these magnificent animals. If visitors prefer to bring their own picnic, there are many places to sit and admire the scenery. In addition, younger members of a group will be thrilled by the extensive play areas, which are divided into age appropriate sections in a delightful wooden setting.

Children's Safari Tour

A visitor shop sells a variety of books and gifts to suit all pockets. Younger visitors can purchase a special ‘safari tour’, which encourages them to find, observe and learn more about different creatures housed at the Zoo.

The Welsh Mountain Zoo is a relaxing but interesting day out, with a variety of species that will capture imaginations.

Welsh Mountain Zoo


The copyright of the article Welsh Mountain Zoo in Wales Travel is owned by Victoria Turton. Permission to republish Welsh Mountain Zoo in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.


Penguins on Parade, V Turton
Barn owl, V Turton
Tiger at the Mountain Zoo, V Turton
   


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