West Midlands Safari Park is a 200-acre park located in Bewdley, Worcestershire, England, which was opened in Spring 1973. The park houses over 165 species of exotic animals, with a total of 600 animals, and attracts over 750,000 visitors annually. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of the West Midlands Safari Park animals.
The African Plains
The African Plains section of the park is home to a variety of captivating animals, including:
- Southern White Rhino
- Common Eland
- Ellipsen Waterbuck
- African Forest Buffalo
- Red Lechwe
- Burchell’s Zebra
- Grevy’s Zebra
- Giraffe
- Ankole Cattle
These majestic creatures roam freely, allowing visitors to observe their natural behaviors and interactions up close.
The Grasslands
The Grasslands section of the park is home to some unique species, such as:
- Persian Fallow Deer
- Barbary Sheep
- Blesbok (added in 2023)
These animals thrive in the park’s carefully curated environment, providing an immersive experience for visitors.
Wild Woods and Wild Asia
The Wild Woods section is home to a group of dholes, while the Wild Asia and Realm of the Indian Rhino sections feature a diverse array of species, including:
- Banteng
- Blackbuck
- Formosan Sika Deer
- Philippine Spotted Deer
- Barasingha
- Four Indian Rhinoceroses
These sections offer a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of Asia’s wildlife.
Elephant Valley and Borderlands
The Elephant Valley is home to the safari’s African elephants, with one elephant, Five, currently in the park, as Sutton had moved to a different park. The Borderlands section, formerly the elephants’ enclosure, is now home to a herd of Bactrian camels.
The Tiger Reserve
The park also has a Tiger Reserve, which is home to both Bengal tigers and endangered Sumatran tigers. Visitors can observe these majestic felines in their natural habitat.
Experiences at West Midlands Safari Park
The park offers various experiences for visitors to enjoy:
Minibus Safari Tours
The Minibus Safari Tours are guided tours of the four-mile Safari, allowing visitors to explore the park’s diverse animal populations up close. These tours are priced at £7.50 per person and must be booked in advance.
Safari Lodges
The park also offers Safari Lodges, which are luxury lodges that provide an overnight wildlife experience like no other. These lodges offer spectacular views of the animals and include dinner and breakfast.
Recent Developments
In 2021, the park completed the construction of a new elephant reserve, and the park currently holds one elephant, Five, as Sutton had moved to a different park. The park is also restoring the Dhole and Cheetah enclosures in the drive-through safari, which are part of a larger heathland Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
West Midlands Safari Park is a true gem, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the wonders of the animal kingdom. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a family looking for a unique adventure, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the natural world, this park is sure to leave a lasting impression.