Wildlife World Zoo
Lotherton’s zoo, Wildlife World, tells the story of the world’s natural heritage. Meet playful Humboldt penguins as they splash about in their pool. See flamingos in their habitat and say hello to the resident tapir and capybara.
We invite you to get to know the animals, how they live and what we can do to protect their future. Wildlife World is located within the grounds of Lotherton.
Our opening hours are 10am-5pm from April to the end of October and 10am-4pm until March.
Only assistance dogs are allowed in Wildlife World. You can find out more information about bringing your dog to Lotherton on our dedicated dogs at Lotherton page.
Natural heritage, tales from travels
Lotherton Wildlife World tells the story of our natural heritage.
Separated into zones, visitors can learn about pollution, climate change and more in the Coastal Zone; while the Forest Zone tells you about different ecosystems and how they affect animals’ homes.
Wildlife World contributes to conservation initiatives by taking part in European breeding programmes and aims to raise awareness of endangered animals and plant species through an exciting learning and events programme.
Conservation
At Lotherton Wildlife World, conservation is at the heart of everything we do. From the species we care for to the projects we support, our mission is to inspire, protect, and make a meaningful difference for wildlife across the globe.
Find out more about conservation at Wildlife World
At Lotherton Wildlife World, conservation is at the heart of everything we do. From the species we care for to the projects we support, our mission is to inspire, protect, and make a meaningful difference for wildlife across the globe.
Our Commitment as a BIAZA Member
As proud members of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA), we work to the highest standards of animal care, conservation, and education.
Being part of BIAZA means actively contributing to national and international conservation efforts, sharing expertise, and working collaboratively with other accredited zoos and wildlife organisations.
Together, BIAZA collections are helping safeguard species, support field projects, and promote the vital role that modern zoos play in protecting the natural world, and we are proud to be part of that community.
Butterfly Conservation Monitoring
At Lotherton Wildlife World, we’re passionate about protecting our local wildlife as well as global species. One of our ongoing commitments is the monitoring of wild butterflies on our grounds in partnership with Butterfly Conservation.
Through regular surveys and habitat monitoring, we contribute valuable data that helps track population trends, understand environmental change, and inform nationwide conservation decisions. Our estate provides important nectar sources and breeding sites for a range of native species, and each recorded sighting helps build a clearer picture of how these delicate insects are faring in the UK.
Find out more about the Butterfly Conservation.
Supporting Global Species Through EAZA EEPs
We are actively involved in European conservation breeding programmes known as EAZA Ex Situ Programmes (EEPs). These collaborative, scientifically managed programmes work to ensure the long‑term survival of endangered species.
At Lotherton Wildlife World, we currently participate in the EEPs for:
Blue‑crowned Laughingthrush (Garrulax courtoisi)
One of the world’s rarest birds, the blue‑crowned laughingthrush relies heavily on coordinated zoo‑based conservation for its long‑term survival. Our team works closely with other European collections to support its future.
Southern Ground Hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri)
This iconic African species faces threats from habitat loss and persecution. By contributing to its EEP, we help maintain a healthy and genetically diverse population across Europe.
These programmes allow us to take part in global conservation action, safeguarding species for generations to come.
Ocean Conservation through Penguin Adoption
Our Humboldt penguins are ambassadors for marine conservation. To support vital ocean‑protection work, we donate 10% of every penguin adoption to the Ocean Conservation Trust.
This contribution helps fund projects such as seagrass restoration, marine research, and education aimed at protecting our seas and the species that depend on them. By adopting a penguin, our visitors directly support healthier oceans worldwide.
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Read about our Sustainability Policy here
Our Commitment to Sustainability and the Environment
Lotherton Wildlife World is nestled within the historic Lotherton Estate, a unique place where wildlife, heritage and people come together. As part of Leeds City Council, we are committed to caring not only for the animals we look after, but for the environment they depend on. Every step we take aims to make Wildlife World a greener, more responsible and more inspiring place to visit.
Tackling Climate Change
In 2019, Leeds City Council declared a climate emergency, pledging the city’s ambition to become the first net‑zero city in the UK. Wildlife World plays an active part in this mission. We are gradually transforming our operations to reduce carbon emissions, cut waste, improve energy efficiency and prioritise sustainable choices across everything we do — from animal habitats to the food we serve.
Our Sustainability Aims
Our approach to sustainability is rooted in a simple goal: to run Wildlife World in a way that protects nature, supports local biodiversity and inspires visitors to take positive action. We aim to reduce our carbon footprint, enhance habitats across the estate and embed sustainability into our infrastructure and daily routines. Education is central to this work, and we strive to help visitors understand the impact of climate change and biodiversity loss, and what they can do to help.
We also support more sustainable travel by encouraging walking, cycling and public transport, and by reducing the waste we produce and increasing the materials we reuse or recycle. As part of our wider food strategy, we’re working to lower the carbon footprint of the food served across the estate.
Food with a Lighter Footprint
We are continually improving the sustainability of the food served at Lotherton. A growing proportion of our produce comes from Yorkshire suppliers, helping us lower food miles. Our menus are designed to minimise waste and support healthier, more environmentally friendly food choices. We have introduced carbon‑impact information on menus so visitors can make informed decisions.
Behind the scenes, food waste is separated and processed into renewable biogas, while glass waste is recycled and repurposed into new bottles and building materials.
Reducing Plastic and Creating Sustainable Retail Spaces
Across our cafés and shops, we are reducing single‑use plastics and exploring more responsible alternatives. Paper bags have replaced plastic ones, and we’ve introduced a range of bamboo‑based and eco‑friendly products, toys and gifts. Our suppliers are also working with us to reduce unnecessary packaging and move towards more sustainable materials as they become available.
Greener Travel and Low‑Emission Operations
Wildlife World benefits from Leeds City Council’s major investment in electric and low‑emission vehicles. We now use an electric vehicle for animal transport and operational tasks, helping us reduce our carbon footprint. Staff are supported through bike‑to‑work schemes, and visitors are encouraged to explore greener travel options thanks to excellent walking routes, cycle paths and public transport links.
Energy Efficiency and Carbon Reduction
We are committed to continually reducing our energy use and improving the sustainability of our buildings. This includes investing in solar technology where possible, improving heating efficiency and planning upgrades to low‑carbon and renewable energy systems in line with Leeds City Council’s targets of a 40% reduction in building emissions by 2025 and net‑zero by 2030.
Conservation and Biodiversity
The Lotherton Estate offers a rich mix of woodlands, grasslands and wetlands, supporting a wide variety of local species. Wildlife World contributes to the Council’s Biodiversity Net Gain goals by enhancing habitats, improving animal exhibits and participating in European breeding programmes for vulnerable and endangered animals.
We also grow browse and other plants on site to support our animals’ diets, reducing the need for imported feed. Conservation storytelling is woven throughout the attraction, helping visitors understand the challenges facing wildlife around the world.
Education and Community Engagement
Education is at the heart of everything we do. Wildlife World runs a full programme of learning sessions for schools, youth groups and families, alongside seasonal events and nature‑based activities designed to bring people closer to wildlife. Our aim is to inspire curiosity, build understanding and encourage future generations to value and protect the natural world.
Governance and Ongoing Review
Our sustainability work is shaped by Leeds City Council’s climate ambitions and supported by expert groups including the Leeds Climate Commission and the Climate Emergency Advisory Committee. It is also informed by the views of thousands of local residents who took part in the citywide climate emergency consultation.
To ensure we continue to improve, our sustainability policy is reviewed every year and updated in line with new developments, emerging best practice and changes across the estate.
Thank You for Making a Difference
Every visit to Lotherton Wildlife World supports conservation, education and our ongoing sustainability journey. Together, we can protect wildlife, celebrate nature and build a greener future for everyone.
Penguins
Penguin Pool Extension now open!
- Look out for the penguins at feeding time in the new pool extension where you can also have your own exclusive Penguin Experience – booking information here.
- The new filtration is up and running helping us to create a better environment for the penguins and producing less waste water
About our penguins
Come along to see our colony of playful Humboldt penguins.
Native to South America, these penguins make their home on sandy beaches and rocky coastlines and live for up to 25 years.
It is important to help conserve this species. Their food source is becoming smaller because of over-fishing in the area and climate change is also having a negative effect.
Our penguins all have very unique personalities, so pick a spot beside the pool to see them waddle, dive and fly through the water for their dinner!
Animal Experiences
Come and meet our Wildlife World residents in our Animal Experiences, meet the penguins or capybaras during your visit to Lotherton.
Adopt an Animal
Support Wildlife World by adopting a Humboldt Penguin or Red-necked Wallaby for a whole year, making a great gift for a loved one or a special gift for yourself.
Arthur the Tapir
Constantly evolving
As Wildlife World continues to develop over the coming years visitors will see enclosures transformed to enable and encourage more natural behaviour in the birds.
Other animal species will be introduced to provide informative displays that help to tell global conservation stories.
The latest additions to Wildlife World include Capybaras and Wallabies.
Learn with Wildlife World
Book an exciting school visit to Wildlife World.
Wildlife World Shop
Wildlife World Shop has a huge range of animal themed toys, gifts, souvenirs and more.
From cuddly toys to books about the natural world, and outdoor toys to postcards, the shop is perfect for browsing. Pick up a gift for a loved one or a memento of your day out. The shop also sells a selection of drinks and ice creams.
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