A new chapter has begun at Paignton Zoo, where visitors can now discover a transformed zoo featuring new animals, new habitats and exciting new areas to explore following the completion of the first stage of the zoo’s ambitious transformation.
Since coming under Libéma’s ownership in January 2026, Paignton Zoo has seen significant investment as part of a long-term vision for the future of the zoo. Over the past six months, the zoo has welcomed the return of southern white rhinos for the first time in decades, alongside new arrivals including yak and rhea, with sitatunga and vicuña due to arrive soon.
Visitors can now discover four new themed routes – Rainforests, Grasslands, Islands and Wetlands – making it easier than ever to explore the zoo. There are also improved animal viewing opportunities, refreshed entrance facilities, and a welcoming new Central Plaza. Alongside this are also new play areas, updated maps, and children’s activity trails, with the development marking one of the biggest periods of change in the zoo’s history.
The transformation also marks the continued development of the zoo’s animal collection. Alongside the return of southern white rhinos for the first time in decades, visitors can now see the zoo’s new male giraffe, Brad, whose arrival supports the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP). Further arrivals, including sitatunga and vicuña, are expected in the coming weeks as the Grasslands area continues to grow.
Designed with animal welfare, conservation and education at its heart, the transformation includes significant improvements to habitats across the zoo. The newly renovated Rhino House, expanded outdoor paddock and growing mixed-species savannah provide even better environments for the animals in the zoo’s care, while creating more opportunities for visitors to connect with wildlife and learn about the importance of protecting it.
General Manager, Ashley Gillam, said: “This is a hugely exciting moment for Paignton Zoo and marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for both the zoo and our visitors. Over the past six months, we’ve welcomed incredible new species, enhanced animal habitats and created more opportunities for people to connect with wildlife, all while maintaining the highest standards of animal care and welfare. We’d like to thank our staff, partners and supporters who have helped bring this vision to life, and we can’t wait to welcome visitors to discover the next chapter of Paignton Zoo for themselves.”
The transformation has been made possible through the dedication of zoo staff, project partners and supporters who have worked together over the past six months to bring this new chapter to life.
While the completion of phase one marks a significant milestone, it is only the beginning. With phase two plans including the redevelopment of the main restaurant, the arrival of camels and Komodo dragons, and the creation of a new baboon habitat at the former quarry. Together with ongoing developments at sister site Newquay Zoo, the investment reflects Libéma’s long-term commitment to creating world-class wildlife destinations while strengthening conservation and animal welfare.
Visitors can discover the next chapter of Paignton Zoo throughout the summer, with new habitats, remarkable new animals and exciting developments already unveiled, and even more still to come.