Category: Blog

Hedgehogs, once a common sight in our gardens and woodlands, are now classified as ‘Near Threatened’ on the latest IUCN Red List release. It’s a stark reality that in the last decade alone, observations indicate that their numbers have decreased by a whopping 30%, potentially more!

Urban development, agricultural expansion and road infrastructure is creating a huge fracture within the hedgehog’s habitat, giving them less space to survive and thrive, whilst factors such as road collisions, pesticides, poorly maintained gardens and events such as Halloween and Bonfire Night, are drastically contributing to their numbers declining.

Bonfire Night…Halloween? You may ask…Yes! Beloved events by many, are unfortunately contributing to the hedgehog population decline. Hedgehogs might get hold of your pumpkin leftovers which seems harmless enough, but they are unable to digest pumpkins, leaving them incredibly ill, or worse. Then there’s Bonfire Night. Woodpiles provide the perfect shelter for our spikey friends; however, these often go unchecked, meaning the new inhabitants get trapped and are unfortunately killed as a result.

So, what can we do to help ensure this incredible, native species survives?

1. Properly dispose of your pumpkins – although perfectly suitable for some animals, this results in many unwanted hedgehog fatalities. By removing this food and their temptation, you will make more of a difference than you realise!
2. Build and light your bonfires on the same day – the longer a woodpile is in your garden, the more likely a hedgehog is going to try and make it their new home! If left unattended at any point, make sure you check inside with a torch and listen out for any huffing sounds!
3. Create hedgehog highways – you can purchase these premade, or just have gaps in your garden fence for hedgehogs to continue their journey safely through gardens, rather than on dangerous roads.
4. Leave out water and food – freshwater and wet, meat based, dog or cat food is a saving grace for a hedgehog and something most people have readily available in their kitchen cupboards!
5. Avoid using slug pellets – often unwanted guests in our gardens, hedgehogs take care of this issue for us, as slugs are a huge food source for them. By leaving a healthy supply of slugs in your garden, you’re helping hedgehogs stay nourished and healthy.
6. Pond escape routes – if you have a pond in your garden, this can be dangerous for unsuspecting hedgehogs! Ensure your pond has gently sloping sides, or place a plank of wood leading out, so any caught hedgehogs can escape.

If you find a hedgehog that seems like it needs your help, please move slowly and calmly, make sure to wear gardening gloves to pick up the hedgehog and any nesting materials, or place them in a cardboard box lined with newspaper. Once moved, please ensure you’re leaving them in a safe location such as under a woodpile or a bush away from main roads.

Conservation of this species is more vital than ever before, unless we all take steps to help wherever we can, before we know it, it will be too late. Please do your part, spread the word and help create an environment where hedgehogs are safe and protected, so their numbers can steadily rise, rather than rapidly decrease. Together, we can make an impact.

When it comes to building a strong team, nothing beats getting everyone together for a fun, engaging day outside the office. At Dartmoor Zoo, we believe that a team building event is the perfect way to shake things up and bring everyone closer together – especially if many colleagues work remotely. Here’s how you can ensure that your day with us is not just good, but great!

Know What You Want to Achieve

Start with the end in mind. What are your goals for this team-building event? Maybe you want to boost morale, improve communication, or just give everyone a well-deserved break from the daily grind. Whatever your objectives, let us know and we’ll help tailor the activities to meet your needs. From problem-solving challenges to trust-building exercises, having clear goals will guide the day’s activities and outcomes.

Dress for Success

Comfort is key when you’re spending the day at the zoo. Encourage your team to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. If it’s going to be sunny, sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are must-haves. For colder days, suggest layering up with jackets and scarves. Comfortable, sturdy footwear is also essential, as there will be quite a bit of walking on uneven grounds. Dressing appropriately means everyone can focus on the fun and learning, not the weather!

Take Advantage of the Zoo Setting

Dartmoor Zoo isn’t just about seeing the animals; it’s about interacting with them in ways that inspire and educate. Our team building activities might include behind-the-scenes tours or animal encounters that can’t be found anywhere else. These experiences serve as metaphors for workplace lessons like adaptability, innovation, and teamwork. Check out some of our team building activities here. Don’t forget to download the brochure too!

Food Glorious Food

We all know that great food can make any event better. At Dartmoor Zoo, we take pride in offering delicious, freshly prepared meals at the Jaguar Restaurant. Whether it’s a light lunch or a hearty meal to round off the day, we’ve got options to suit everyone. Plus, sitting down to eat together is a fantastic opportunity for informal chatting, sharing experiences of the day, and just enjoying each other’s company.

Travel Smart

Organising a group trip to the zoo can be part of the fun! Encourage your team to carpool or use public transport—it’s a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and get everyone mingling before they even arrive. Plus, travelling together is the first step in team bonding; it sets a collaborative tone right from the start.

Reflect on the Day

After a day full of activities, it’s important to wind down and reflect. We can provide spaces for your team to gather and discuss what they’ve learned, or simply to share their highlights and takeaways. This reflection period helps solidify the connections made and lessons learned during the day, ensuring that the benefits of the event continue even after everyone returns to work.

Break the Ice

Early on, use ice-breakers to get everyone relaxed and talking. Simple, fun activities can help even the shyest team members come out of their shells and feel comfortable. These initial games set a playful tone for the day and show that while the day’s agenda might be about learning and improving, it’s also about having fun together.

Shake Things Up

Mixing teams is a fantastic strategy to encourage mingling. People often stick to what they know, so by creating groups that blend different departments or levels of hierarchy, everyone gets a chance to interact with someone they might not speak to on a regular day at the office. This can spark new friendships and innovative ideas, enriching your workplace culture.

Snap Away

What’s a team day without photos to remember it by? Whether you hire a professional photographer or encourage your team to snap pictures on their phones, capturing the day’s moments is a must. Photos can later be used in newsletters or shared on social media, keeping the memories alive and reminding everyone of the fun and learning they shared.

Keep the Momentum Going

To truly make the most of your team-building efforts, keep the conversation going once you’re back in the office. Discuss how the day’s activities can be translated into everyday work life. Maybe set up a follow-up session to revisit the day’s achievements and talk about how to implement new ideas. This helps maintain the energy and camaraderie long after the event has ended.

Ready for a fantastic team-building adventure at Dartmoor Zoo? We’re just as excited to host you! Let’s make it a day to remember, filled with fun, learning, and unforgettable memories. Learn more about team building activities and get in touch with us here.

Businesses in Devon and across the UK host corporate events and conferences to build relationships, develop awareness, and educate guests. And where better to host a truly memorable conference than at a zoo?!

Dartmoor Zoo offers a refreshing and engaging alternative for corporate events, combining the functionality of a larger space to host more attendees with the unique experience of being amidst one of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. There aren’t many places in the UK where a lunchtime intermission for corporate activities can include a Big Cat talk! 

Here’s what you and your guests can expect when you hire a conference room at Dartmoor Zoo.

Exceptional conference packages

Dartmoor Zoo presents a unique venue that goes beyond the ordinary, offering a serene and inspiring backdrop for your corporate events. We understand that each event has its own set of requirements and objectives. So, we’ve designed three distinct conference packages to cater to a wide range of needs: the Meerkat, Otter, and Jaguar packages. Each is tailored to ensure your event is both memorable and impactful.

Meerkat Package

The Meerkat Package offers a compact yet comprehensive option. It includes room hire for either the morning or afternoon, with refreshments served upon arrival and during the break. This package is ideal for those looking for a brief yet effective meeting or workshop setting.

Otter Package

The Otter Package is designed for full-day events, providing everything included in the Meerkat Package plus a delicious lunch to keep your team energised throughout the day. This option offers more flexibility and time to delve deeper into your conference agenda or team-building activities.

Jaguar Package

Elevate your event with the Jaguar Package, our premium offering. Alongside all the benefits of the Otter Package, it features an exclusive animal experience that promises to make your conference unforgettable. This package is the epitome of combining business with pleasure, offering a unique opportunity to engage with the natural world while achieving your corporate objectives.

Each package is designed with your convenience and the success of your event in mind, providing a range of options to suit different schedules, budgets, and preferences. Download our Corporate Brochure for more detailed information and to explore how we can tailor your event to meet your specific needs.

Host your next conference at Dartmoor Zoo

Dartmoor Zoo is ready to host your next corporate event and start planning its success. With our diverse conference packages, stunning location, and commitment to excellence, we’re ready to provide an unparalleled experience for you and your guests. Whether you’re aiming to inspire your team, foster corporate relationships, or simply enjoy a change of scenery for an all-hands workshop, Dartmoor Zoo offers the perfect setting.

Interested? Then learn more about our conference room hire and our different pricing options. We’re looking forward to helping you make your next conference not just successful, but truly memorable too.

Over the last few years, the standard corporate event or conference has become a lot more than a simple business meet-up. They’ve become a key opportunity to network, to sell, and to impress. 

As such, the quest for the perfect venue has seen many firms look further afield than the local co-working space or inner-city conference centre to find unique locations that will set the perfect backdrop for a memorable event. 

Offsite meetings in unique surrounds offer a breath of fresh air, encouraging productivity and creativity. This shift towards distinctive locations has led to an increasing interest in exotic venues, including the enthralling experience of hosting events at a zoo!

Choosing your conference venue

Selecting the right conference venue is a nuanced process that demands careful consideration of various factors. Key among these are location accessibility, capacity, available facilities, technological support, and catering options. It’s essential to choose a venue that not only aligns with your event’s scale and scope but also amplifies its purpose. 

As businesses strive to stand out, the ambience of the venue plays a significant role in stimulating creativity and engagement among attendees. A venue that speaks to the event’s ethos and enhances the overall experience can turn a routine gathering into a memorable occasion.

Benefits of hosting at a zoo

Imagine hosting your next conference surrounded by the serene beauty of nature, away from the cacophony of city life. Dartmoor Zoo offers a unique blend of excitement and tranquillity, making it an unforgettable venue for your corporate events. Just some of the benefits include:

Memorable experience: The novelty of a zoo setting ensures your event stands out, creating lasting memories for participants.

Outdoor space: Abundant outdoor areas provide the perfect backdrop for breaks, networking, and team-building activities, allowing ideas to flourish amidst fresh air.

Serenity: Located away from urban noise, the zoo offers a peaceful environment conducive to focus and creativity.

What guests can expect

Dartmoor Zoo presents three tailored Conference Packages designed to cater to varying needs and preferences:

Meerkat Package: Ideal for smaller groups, this package offers a cosy setting that encourages intimate discussions and collaboration.

Otter Package: A step up, providing more space and flexibility, perfect for workshops and medium-sized meetings that require a balance of presentation and interaction.

Jaguar Package: The premier choice for those looking to impress, featuring the best facilities, expansive spaces, and the full breadth of the zoo’s offerings for large-scale conferences.

Each package is thoughtfully crafted to ensure your event is not just successful but also provides a unique experience that sparks creativity and fosters connections. Download our Corporate Brochure for more detailed information on what Dartmoor Zoo has to offer.

Host your next conference at Dartmoor Zoo

The Dartmoor Zoo events team is eager to welcome your next corporate event. With our expertise and the zoo’s enchanting backdrop, we’re committed to planning and executing an event that exceeds your expectations. 

Whether you’re aiming for innovation, team building, or simply a memorable gathering, Dartmoor Zoo offers the perfect setting.

Interested? Learn more about our conference room hire and explore our diverse pricing options. 

Organisations are increasingly moving away from traditional meeting rooms and conference locations in the search for more unique and engaging locations to host their events. The drive behind this shift is clear: unique spaces can inspire and help to foster increased creativity. 

Locations like Dartmoor Zoo offer a unique backdrop for any corporate event – a location where fresh air and fantastic animal onlookers can inspire new ideas, spark conversation, and build relationships. Here’s why you should consider a unique backdrop for your next event, and how it can encourage increased creativity. 

How unique locations inspire creativity

Choosing a unique backdrop for your next event goes beyond mere aesthetics; it’s a strategic decision that can significantly influence the creativity and engagement of your participants. When you step away from the mundane and immerse your attendees in an environment that’s out of the ordinary, you stimulate their senses, challenge their perceptions, and encourage them to think outside the box.

A distinctive setting acts as a catalyst for creativity by providing new stimuli and perspectives that can ignite fresh ideas and innovative solutions. Whether it’s the tranquil beauty of a botanical garden, stunning zoo, the historic walls of a castle, or the vibrant energy of a modern art museum, each unique venue offers a new canvas on which your attendees can project their thoughts and imagination. This shift in environment not only refreshes the mind but also breaks down the barriers to creative thinking, making it an invaluable tool for enhancing the productivity and success of your event.

The benefits of hosting a conference at a zoo

Choosing a location like Dartmoor Zoo as your conference venue brings a whole host of benefits that directly contribute to boosting creativity among attendees. The distinct and memorable setting of a zoo, with its natural surroundings and exotic inhabitants, provides a refreshing change from the usual corporate environment. Such a unique backdrop can spark inspiration and new ideas, setting the stage for a productive meeting or conference.

The availability of ample outdoor space allows for breaks amidst nature, where participants can recharge and gather their thoughts away from the hustle and bustle of city life in 33 acres of stunning parkland. The serene ambience of Dartmoor Zoo, coupled with the absence of urban distractions, creates an ideal setting for focusing on innovation and strategic planning.

Get your creativity flowing with a conference at Dartmoor Zoo

At Dartmoor Zoo, we’re not just about offering a venue; we’re about creating an experience that will leave a lasting impression on your team and your corporate objectives. Our dedicated events team is eager to assist you in planning a conference that not only meets your needs but exceeds your expectations in terms of creativity and innovation. Imagine holding your next meeting surrounded by the beauty of nature and exotic wildlife – a setting that promises to awaken the imagination and inspire groundbreaking ideas.

Interested in making your next conference not just successful, but truly memorable too? Learn more about our conference room hire and explore our different pricing options. For a closer look at what we offer, feel free to download our Corporate Brochure. 

Business conferences play a crucial role in fostering industry connections, unveiling new insights, and promoting corporate growth. However, given the substantial investment required to organise and run these events, it’s important to extract maximum value from them. 

Achieving success at a conference is not just about gathering industry professionals under one roof; it involves strategic planning, engaging content, and an environment conducive to networking and knowledge exchange. 

Here are 10 important aspects that will help ensure your next business conference not only meets but exceeds expectations.

Choose a memorable location

The venue of your conference can significantly influence its success. A memorable location does more than provide a backdrop; it enhances the attendee experience, encourages engagement, and can even boost attendance. 

Venues like Dartmoor Zoo offer a unique setting that stands out from conventional conference spaces. Nestled within the stunning landscapes of the Dartmoor National Park, the zoo provides a tranquil yet inspiring environment, ideal for stimulating creativity and fostering meaningful connections. 

Define clear objectives

Begin with a clear understanding of what you wish to achieve. Whether it’s to foster networking, educate, or introduce new products, having defined goals will guide every decision you make, from the agenda to the choice of speakers.

Plan engaging content

Content is king. Ensure your conference agenda is filled with engaging, informative, and relevant presentations. Diverse formats, such as workshops, panels, and interactive sessions, can cater to varied learning styles and keep the audience engaged.

Promote effectively

A robust promotion strategy is essential to attract attendees. Utilise social media, email marketing, and industry partnerships to spread the word. Early bird specials and group discounts can also increase early registrations.

Leverage technology

From event apps to live streaming, technology can enhance the conference experience. Use apps for schedules, networking, and feedback to engage attendees and streamline the event’s logistics.

Facilitate networking

Networking is a key reason people attend conferences. Create spaces and schedule times specifically for networking. Icebreaker activities and networking apps can also encourage interaction among attendees.

Offer quality catering

Never underestimate the power of good food! Quality catering can significantly improve the attendee experience, providing energy and satisfaction throughout the event.

Train your team

Ensure your team is trained and prepared to handle enquiries, provide information, and assist attendees. A knowledgeable and friendly staff can greatly enhance the conference experience. Don’t underestimate the importance of a friendly welcome! 

Gather feedback

Feedback is invaluable for understanding what worked and what didn’t. Use surveys or apps to collect attendees’ thoughts on the event, which can guide improvements for future conferences.

Follow up

After the event, follow up with attendees through thank you emails, surveys, or newsletters. This not only shows appreciation but can also maintain the connection for future events.

Host your next conference at Dartmoor Zoo

The Dartmoor Zoo events team is ready to host your next corporate event and begin planning its success! Our unique venue offers a memorable setting that encourages engagement, creativity, and connection among attendees. Interested? Then learn more about our conference room hire and our different pricing options. We hope to speak with you soon.

Birthday celebrations are momentous occasions, whether you’re planning a fun-filled party for your kids and their friends or organising a special milestone event for someone who is older in years but still young at heart! Finding the right venue can often be the most daunting part of the planning process. However, if you’re looking for a setting that combines natural beauty with thrilling wildlife encounters, Dartmoor Zoo offers a truly unique backdrop that will offer a truly unforgettable birthday experience. 

What makes Dartmoor Zoo such a unique venue?

Set amidst 33 acres of lush woodland and spectacular scenery, Dartmoor Zoo presents an enchanting escape into the wild. The zoo is home to a fascinating array of animals, from the majestic lions and awe-inspiring tigers to the intriguing tarantulas. Imagine the excitement as you and your guests explore these beautiful surroundings, coming face-to-face with some of nature’s most incredible creatures.

The experiences on offer at Dartmoor Zoo go beyond mere observation. Have you ever wanted to feed a meerkat?! Well at Dartmoor Zoo, we make these thrilling encounters part of your birthday festivities, ensuring an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

Taking the stress out of planning

We understand that the success of any party lies in the details. That’s why our dedicated events team is here to handle everything from the initial planning stages to the final clean-up, ensuring your celebration is seamless and stress-free. Our specially tailored birthday party packages, such as Tiger Tots for the little ones and Capybara Kids for older children, offer a variety of themed activities and catering options designed to delight guests of all ages.

With everything taken care of by our experienced staff, you can relax and enjoy the day along with your guests. Whether it’s a bespoke cake, fun and educational animal talks, or guided tours around the zoo, our team is committed to creating a bespoke experience that perfectly suits your needs and expectations.

Book your unforgettable birthday at Dartmoor Zoo

Ready to start planning the ultimate birthday bash? Learn more about what Dartmoor Zoo can offer by visiting our dedicated birthday party venue hire page. Learn more about our various party packages and the unique experiences we provide. When you’re ready, simply get in touch with us using the form at the bottom of the page. Our friendly team looking forward to discussing your ideas and to begin organising a celebration that will be remembered for years to come!

Don’t settle for the ordinary—choose Dartmoor Zoo for a birthday party that’s as wild as it is wonderful. We can’t wait to help you celebrate!

Dartmoor Zoo are pleased to announce that Malu, a Palawan Binturong that managed to escape his enclosure, has now been found and returned safely to Dartmoor Zoo. Binturongs are incredible creatures, as well as being great climbers, they famously smell of popcorn!

Initial keeper observations would indicate that Malu hasn’t suffered in any way from his time in the Devon countryside, but Malu is being held in his house within his enclosure temporarily until a full health check can be carried out by the vets. His house has been confirmed as secure and Malu has access to heat, food, water and is comfortable and secure.

Welcomed to the site on Wednesday 5^th July 2023 from ‘Get to know animals’ at Epping, Essex, London, Malu has become a much-loved resident on site and the entire team are delighted regarding his return.

Animal Manager Maddy commented:

“Malu is a shy boy and takes some time getting used to people. Bananas are considered a good way to make friends, although he loves all fruit and is his happiest self when munching! 

After receiving word of sightings by a local Cornwood resident in the evening of Tuesday 13^th February the team gathered equipment and drove to the location. He was located in a small woodshed next to an allotment, so he had managed to find shelter and a food source. 

He was quickly secured and transported back to the Zoo, where he has been settling back in.

Malu has been eating well overnight and seems calm and in good health. The team will continue to monitor him to ensure he is doing well. 

At this time, the team are enjoying a very emotional reuniting with a much-missed Malu.”

Dartmoor Zoo will be reviewing Malu’s enclosure over the next 12 – 24 hours, to assess any changes that need to be made and Malu will be in a suitable, temporary enclosure until any works have been completed.

CEO David Gibson Commented:

“We are all obviously delighted that Malu has been found safe and well and our priority now is for his ongoing welfare and care. We will be working hard over the next few days to ensure that he is in good health and that there is no possibility of him escaping his enclosure again.”

Prepare for an unforgettable evening!

Following on from the roaring success of last year’s sell-out Charity Ball, we’re delighted to announce its return on Saturday 7th October 2023 at Boringdon Park Golf Club.

Raising vital funds for Dartmoor Zoological Society, the evening will be hosted by the entertaining BBC South West presenter, David FitzGerald, and includes a red carpet drinks reception, three-course dinner, charity auction and raffle and live music from the fantastic eight piece party band ‘The Harry Peanut Show‘ to dance the night away!

Book your tickets early to avoid disappointment and join us for what is promised to be another wildly entertaining evening.

BOOK NOW

Brighten up the grey of winter this February half term (11th – 19th February) and join us for a truly wild adventure!

Let Dartmoor Zoo spark the imagination of your little ones and enjoy a range of FREE activities as part of our ‘Little Paws Pounce & Paint’ event, all included as part of your general admission ticket!

• Bouncy castle
• Face painting
• Craft activities
• Games
  + MORE!

All activities will be hosted in our newly refurbished, all-weather ‘Jaguar Suite’ and places can be booked online as an add-on when purchasing admission tickets to the Zoo during the February half term. Places are limited so be quick!

We’ve got everything you need for keeping your young cubs entertained!

*** Please note that you will need to purchase a general admission ticket to take advantage of the free activities we have on offer

BOOK NOW

DZS Membership price:
Members can visit the Zoo for free but must book Little Paws Pounce & Paint event tickets for any accompanying children by visiting – https://bit.ly/DZSLittlePaws

BOO at the Zoo is back for 2022!

This Halloween, Dartmoor Zoo is opening its gates after dark to invite you to a truly FANG-tastic night at the Zoo!

Join us on Friday 28th and Saturday 29th October for two FRIGHTfully good evenings, filled with shock horrors, hair-raising delights and nail biting frights..

Listen out for rustling amongst the trees and peeping eyes as you make your way around the Zoo, meeting characters of the strange, unsavoury and nightmarish kind on your travels.

This event is suitable for most families, however some areas will have advisories and will not be suitable for young children. We will provide a map that lets you know where to find the thrills you seek!

Gates open at 5.30pm with staggered entry tickets available. Event closes at 8.30pm.

For Boo at the Zoo 2023 click here