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One of the UK's top zoos, set in 60 acres near Colchester.
FeaturedA healthy cherry-crowned mangabey baby was born to first-time mother Maja on 27th May 2026, marking the zoo's first birth of this species in nine years. The birth follows a European breeding programme recommendation and is significant for the conservation of this Endangered species, which has declined dramatically in Cameroon due to hunting and the bushmeat trade.
FeaturedA single coppery titi monkey offspring was born on 9 May 2026 to parents Copper and Lewis at Colchester Zoological Society. The birth is significant for the European breeding programme, as the species faces threats from hunting and the pet trade in the wild.
FeaturedGolden lion tamarins have been successfully recovered from Critically Endangered status in 2003 to Endangered, with approximately one-third of the current wild population originating from zoo-based conservation centres. The species, which numbered fewer than 200 individuals in the early 1970s, continues to benefit from collaborative international breeding programmes managed by EAZA across European zoos.
FeaturedA single golden lion tamarin offspring was born on 29th April 2026 to parents Freia and Tree-trunks, who were paired as part of an EAZA Ex Situ Programme breeding recommendation. The new arrival is the second offspring for the couple, following the birth of female Esme in June 2025, and represents continued success in zoo-managed conservation efforts for this Endangered species.
Colchester Zoological Society has been recognised in Tripadvisor's Travellers' Choice Awards 2026, ranking among the top 10% of attractions worldwide and as a top-rated attraction in England. The award is based on genuine visitor reviews collected over a 12-month period and recognises the zoo's commitment to delivering a first-class experience.
FeaturedA 26-year-old female chimpanzee named Jessie arrived at the zoo on 28th April 2026 from Welsh Mountain Zoo as part of a European breeding programme. Her arrival is part of a coordinated EEP (EAZA Ex Situ Programme) conservation effort to maintain genetically diverse populations of this endangered species.
Colchester Zoo will host a day of activities and talks on 9th May 2026 to raise awareness of the civet coffee trade and conservation efforts. Events include binturong training sessions at 11:30am, enrichment feeds at 3:30pm, and interactive activities at the Dragons of Komodo area.
FeaturedColchester Zoological Society will donate 10p from every coffee sold at selected outlets on 9th May 2026 to The Civet Project, a conservation organisation fighting the cruel civet coffee industry. The zoo's two binturongs, Teddy and Cecilka, are part of the EAZA Ex situ Programme and represent efforts to protect these Vulnerable species.
The zoo's Maintenance Team is upgrading the former Patagonian sea lion habitat, built in 2003, to welcome an unannounced new species. Improvements include an expanded beach area with shade cover, upgraded indoor facilities, enhanced filtration for the 500,000-gallon pool, and better visitor access with larger windows and interactive activities.
Colchester Zoological Society has installed new eco-friendly bus shelters featuring solar lighting, improved seating, and zoo branding as part of Essex County Council's 10-year shelter upgrade programme. The shelters include QR codes for donations to support the zoo's conservation work and are designed to encourage sustainable transport among the zoo's one million annual visitors.
Kingdom of the Wild has completed extensive renovations including a rebuilt outdoor ramp, upgraded weaver bird aviary with new waterfall and pool, and an expanded Spirit food outlet. The Exploratorium has also returned to its usual location and will be available weekends and throughout the Easter holidays.
First Bus has launched a partnership with Colchester Zoological Society, featuring a specially branded double-decker bus displaying the zoo's conservation message across the region. A new 375 through-service between Colchester and Chelmsford launches April 12, making it easier for visitors to reach the zoo while supporting its green mission.