NOAH'S Ark Zoo Farm have announced that they have become a charity.
The decision was announced today (Wednesday, April 5, 2023). An exhibition detailing the zoo's story has been created to mark the occasion.
25 years ago, dairy farmers Anthony and Christina Bush opened the zoo's gates to the public, encouraging their first visitors to take part in a variety of fun farm activities like bottle feeding lambs, tractor rides and playing in the straw den.
As the farm gained more popularity, they added more species to their collection, including Rhinos, Giraffes, Lions, Spectacled Bears and African Elephants, taking advantage of their 100 acres of countryside to create large enclosures.
The zoo now boasts the largest Elephant habitat in the UK.
Larry Bush, the couple's son, has been zoo director since 2019. Larry said: “The gaining of charity status will be hugely beneficial for the long-term future of the zoo, its conservation and education programmes, its visitors, the community, and staff.
"Visitors can also enjoy the knowledge that their admission directly funds the vital conservation work of the charity in the UK and around the world.”
Over 100 endangered species call the zoo home, including African elephants, Andean bears, Siamang gibbons and White rhino.
The zoo has a strong focus on native conservation of Farm Animals and in 2022 received their Rare Breeds Survival Trust accreditation.
Speaking further about the importance of preserving nature, Larry says: “Connecting with nature, getting up close to animals, learning in fun and immersive ways and enjoying play together – these all improve your wellbeing.”
Staff from the zoo also make 20,000 school visits each year, as well as undertaking outreach visits to schools, care homes and holiday clubs to educate people on the importance of conservation.
Not only that, but the zoo has also been recognised for its inclusive facilities with their installation of a Changing Places toilet and inclusive play area.
This has recently been recognised with a prestigious Gold award for Inclusive and Accessible Tourism at the South West Tourism Awards on March 30, 2023.
For more information, please visit the Noah's Ark Zoo Farm website.
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