Dartmoor Zoo has announced a partnership with WildCats Conservation Alliance, a global initiative dedicated to protecting wild tigers and Amur leopards.
Through a recent donation, the zoo aims to support conservation efforts that focus on habitat protection, anti-poaching measures, and community-led initiatives.
WildCats Conservation Alliance, a project led by the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) and Dreamworld Wildlife Foundation (DWF), has mobilised over £4.8 million since 2000 to fund conservation programmes worldwide. With fewer than 100 Amur leopards remaining in the wild, the need for urgent action has never been greater.
Dartmoor Zoo CEO David Gibson emphasised the importance of collaborative conservation:
“We are delighted to be able to donate funds to the WildCats Conservation Alliance to support their vital work in the field. They facilitate a number of in-situ projects all focused on the conservation of the Amur Leopard, the most endangered Big Cat in the World.
Working on the ground with local conservationists is by far the most effective way of conserving endangered species and WildCats Conservation Alliance and their host organisation, Zoological Society of London, are pioneers in this Community Led approach to conservation.
As participants in the EAZA Endangered Species Programme (EEP) for the conservation breeding of Amur Leopard we are fully committed to not only ensuring a genetically viable and diverse captive population of Amur Leopard but also supporting the conservation of this highly vulnerable, Critically Endangered, species of big cat in its home range.”
Dartmoor Zoo plays a key role in the captive breeding of Amur leopards, ensuring a genetically viable population that could one day support reintroduction efforts.
The zoo is currently home to two Amur leopards, Freddo and Lena, who were introduced from zoos in Belgium and Colchester, respectively. The pair are part of a carefully managed breeding programme, with keepers hopeful that successful mating could result in new cubs.
Esther Conway, Project Manager at WildCats Conservation Alliance, welcomed the partnership, stating:
“WildCats Conservation Alliance is thrilled to partner with Dartmoor Zoo in this mission to safeguard the Amur leopard in its natural habitat. Together with zoos around the globe, we’re joining forces to channel vital funds into carefully selected conservation projects that are driving real, transformative change for Amur leopards and their entire ecosystem. This united effort is proof that collaboration can make a world of difference.”
Beyond financial contributions, Dartmoor Zoo will also raise awareness for these big cats through dedicated events. International Leopard Day, on 3 May 2025, and International Tiger Day, on 29 July 2025, will be marked with educational activities and fundraising initiatives.
For those wishing to support conservation efforts, donations can be made via the Dartmoor Zoo website, with all proceeds going towards WildCats Conservation Alliance projects.
New Meerkat Habitat Unveiled at Dartmoor Zoo
Dartmoor Zoo has unveiled a new habitat, Meerkat Manor, built in collaboration with students from Sir John Hunt Community Sports College as part of the ‘Superkids’ project. Funded by Promoting Children in Plymouth (PCIP), the initiative supports students struggling with mainstream education by providing hands-on learning experiences.
funded, ‘Superkids’ project, called Meerkat Manor.
Over 10 weeks, students worked with the Dartmoor Zoo maintenance team to construct the habitat, developing teamwork, resilience, and practical skills. Assistant Principal Oliver Marner praised the project, highlighting the personal growth and confidence students gained through their involvement.
An integral part of the design is a glass viewing area, generously donated by Cornwall Glass, allowing visitors a clear view of the soon-to-arrive meerkats.
Kerry Bidewell, Development Manager at PCIP, noted the impact of the project:
“The partnership with Dartmoor Zoo – enters a third year and continues to flourish and grow. The young people have all grown in confidence, experienced the power of teamwork and added a new layer of emotional resilience – alongside a wide array of new practical skills.
This first phase of the Superkids Intervention through to Opportunity has given the young people a sense of accomplishment and a glowing feeling of pride in their work.”
Dartmoor Zoo extends its gratitude to PCIP, Cornwall Glass, and the students for their hard work in making Meerkat Manor a reality.
