The Isle of Wight Zoo
July 2008

The Isle of Wight Zoo is one of the best known Isle of Wight attractions. We visited in July 2008 and this is a brief summary of our experiences. But before we begin, please remember that this is a very small, privately owned zoo - so don't expect anything too grand!

Secondly, please also remember that the zoo is 100% dependent on visitors and sponsors. So try not to be too critical of the older parts - this place is improving all the time, and your money is being put to very good use!

You'll find the Isle of Wight Zoo at the Yaverland end of Culver Parade, Sandown. It occupies a former fort (hence the odd appearance) and has its own spacious car park (charges apply) just off the beach.

The entrance to Isle of Wight Zoo

Whilst I hate to see animals in cages, I have to admit that this small zoo is to be applauded for its efforts in promoting the survival of endangered species. Especially tigers.

Indeed, it has a magnificent tiger collection - and in my opinion it's worth a visit just to see them. The new enclosures in the 'Out of India' section (some still under development) are really good - offering the animals a very much better environment and much more space.

New tiger enclosures in the 'Out of India' section

Unfortunately we were unable to get close to the new Big Cat exhibit as a film crew had fenced it off for filming, but we were treated to great views of 'Diamond' a 10 year-old, hand-reared Indian tiger in the adjacent Ranthambore Exhibit.

Indian tiger 'Diamond' relaxing in the warm July sunshine

Apart from big cats, the zoo also specialises in lemurs, another endangered species. Sadly none were visible when we visited. No doubt they were all snoozing after lunch (they are fed at 11:45 each day).





The monkeys were fun, though. Especially the black spider monkeys who were enjoying play-time with their keeper.









The brown capuchin monkeys were also highly active and fun to watch.

Apparently capuchins are the most intelligent of monkeys and are able to use simple tools!



It won't take you long to walk round the zoo, so it's best to time your visit to coincide with special events during the day: the feeding of lemurs at 11:45 am for example, or the Big Cat Tour at 3:30 pm. You'll find details of these events and other attractions on the official ISLE OF WIGHT ZOO website.


We hope you enjoy your visit. You won't get closer to a real live tiger anywhere else! Meanwhile, for more ideas on where to go and what to do simply

CLICK HERE to visit main Isle of Wight Attractions page

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