Highland Wildlife Park
A Visit to the Highland Wildlife Park at Newtonmore
As you approach the Highland Wildlife Park at Newtonmore, you are greeted by the majestic sight of the Cairngorm Mountains in the distance. The park is home to a wide variety of animals, including Scottish wildcats, red deer, and even polar bears. With its stunning natural surroundings and diverse collection of wildlife, the park is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and animal enthusiasts alike.
Upon entering the park, you are immediately transported into a world of wonder and excitement. The park’s naturalistic habitats allow visitors to observe the animals up close and personal, while also providing a safe and comfortable environment for the animals to thrive. Whether you’re wandering through the forested areas or exploring the tundra, you’ll be constantly amazed by the beauty and diversity of the wildlife on display. So grab your camera, put on your walking shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure at the Highland Wildlife Park.
History of Highland Wildlife Park
Highland Wildlife Park was established in 1972 and is located in the heart of Cairngorms National Park, near Newtonmore in Scotland. The park was created to provide a safe haven for endangered animals, mainly from the mountainous regions of the world.
Initially, the park was a joint venture between the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland and the Highland Council, but in 1986, the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland became the sole owner and operator of the park.
Over the years, the park has undergone several changes and expansions. In 1987, the park opened its first walk-through enclosure, which was home to a group of red pandas. In 1995, the park added a new enclosure for the park’s resident polar bears, and in 2007, the park opened a new, larger enclosure for the park’s Amur tigers.
Today, the Highland Wildlife Park is home to over 200 animals from around the world, including Scottish wildcats, European bison, and snow leopards. The park has also become a leader in conservation efforts, working with other zoos and wildlife organizations to help protect endangered species and their habitats.
Overall, the Highland Wildlife Park has a rich history of providing a safe and nurturing environment for endangered animals, while also promoting conservation efforts around the world.
Native Species
At the Highland Wildlife Park, you can observe a variety of native species that are indigenous to Scotland. These animals are well adapted to the harsh climate and rugged terrain of the Scottish Highlands. Some of the native species you can see at the park include:
Red Deer
The largest land mammal in the UK, red deer are a common sight in the Scottish Highlands. They are well adapted to the cold climate and can be seen grazing in the open fields of the park.
Scottish Wildcat
One of the rarest cats in the world, the Scottish wildcat is a critically endangered species. The park has a breeding programme to help conserve this species and you can see them in a specially designed enclosure.
Pine Marten
These elusive creatures are usually found in the forests of Scotland. At the park, you can see them in a specially designed enclosure that mimics their natural habitat.
Exotic Species
The Highland Wildlife Park is also home to a number of exotic species from around the world. These animals have been carefully selected to ensure they can thrive in the park’s unique environment. Some of the exotic species you can see at the park include:
Snow Leopard
These majestic big cats are native to the mountains of Central Asia. The park has a pair of snow leopards that can be seen in a large enclosure that mimics their natural habitat.
Amur Tiger
One of the largest cats in the world, the Amur tiger is native to the forests of Siberia. The park has a breeding programme to help conserve this endangered species and you can see them in a large enclosure that includes a pool and rocky outcrops.
European Bison
These impressive animals were once hunted to extinction in the wild. The park has a breeding programme to help conserve this species and you can see them grazing in the open fields of the park.
Polar Bear
Highland Wildlife Park is home to four polar bears – Walker, Arktos, Victoria and her cub, Brodie.
The Highland Wildlife Park is a great place to learn about animals and their habitats. Whether you’re interested in native species or exotic animals from around the world, the park has something for everyone.
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