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Record Visitor Numbers at Marwell Zoological Park

2 February 2007

The visitor numbers have been carefully scrutinized and Marwell Zoological Park can today (Friday 2 February) announce that 2006 has been the most successful year ever with a record breaking 510,955 visitors to the Park.

The Zoo, which celebrates its 35th birthday this year, attributes its success to several factors. The fantastic summer weather played a part but it was perhaps the stunning new "Heart of Africa" exhibit that helped to attract the crowds. These magnificent quarters are home to various African species including: Congo buffalo; bongo, Nile monitors (large lizards) and pottos (small primates).

2006 also witnessed the opening of a fantastic new raised walkway. The walkway leads into the giraffe paddock, allowing visitors to gain spectacular views and experience some very close encounters with the Zoo's gentle giants.

As a registered charity, Marwell Preservation Trust relies heavily on visitor income to help support not only the running of the Park but also it's vital conservation work. The Trust is involved with breeding programmes for endangered species on site, such as the Amur tiger and Snow leopard, as well as supporting animal conservation around the globe. During 2006, the Trust was heavily involved in the management of the breeding programmes for the endangered Scimitar-horned oryx and Grevy's zebra to helping co-ordinate research and monitoring of black and white rhino in Zimbabwe.

James Cretney, Marwell Zoological Park Chief Executive comments: "2006 was undoubtedly a great year for Marwell and 2007 is set to be even bigger and better. New exciting exhibits for the year include the opening of our new look Encounter Village with a Golden lion tamarin walk through experience at Easter and a wonderful new Siamang gibbon enclosure - Life in the Trees - during the summer."

Rob Lee, Marketing Manager added: "We are thrilled that we continue to remain one of the most popular animal attractions in southern England. It has given us a perfect reason to get into a party mood early as we also celebrate our 35th birthday this year."

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Notes to editors

For further media information please contact Helen Jeffreys, Marwell Zoological Park Media Relations Officer. Email: helenj@marwell.org.uk Phone: 01962 777947

Marwell Zoological Park is owned and operated by Marwell Preservation Trust: a registered charity dedicated to the conservation of biological diversity. Registered Charity Number 275433.

Marwell is a member of the British and Irish Association of zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA). BIAZA represents its member collections and promotes the values of good zoos and aquariums.

Helen Jeffreys

PR & Media Relations Officer

Marwell Zoological Park

Email: helenj@marwell.org.uk

Direct Line: 01962 777 947