Blackbrook Zoological Park in Staffordshire
UK's Largest Bird Park Also has its Very Own Meerkat Manor
Jul 8, 2009
These intelligent little creatures live in an area which resembles as closely as possible the burrow so familiar to television viewers fascinated by the activities of Sophie, Rocket Dog and Mabeline, just some of the stars of the television programme 'Meerkat Manor'.
The Blackbrook Meerkat Clan is always popular with visitors to the Park who can listen to daily talks about their feeding and way of life. However, they are just one example of the many species represented on the list of residents.
Blackbrook Zoological Park is Home To Magnificent Peacocks
Most of these are of the feathered variety and visitors are frequently met at the entrance gate by one or more of Blackbrook's magnificent peacocks.
These proud birds, one of whom is totally white, strut around the area surrounding the Park's shop and cafe frequently showing off their colourful tail feathers. They stand on fences and other vantage points issuing their distinctive call.
As people move away from the entrance area they come upon large flocks of geese, swans and sea ducks. They are also met by the sight of pelicans filling their huge bills as well as graceful storks and flamingos.
The park is home to a number of cranes including the rare black necked crane and the Manchurian Crane. Close by several different types of vulture keep a keen eye on what is going on around them.
Blackbrook Zoological Park Penguin Pool Very Popular
The inhabitants of the Penguin Pool are also very popular. The use of glass in the pool sides means visitors can watch how gracefully they move under water at close quarters as well as see how they interact while waddling around a little less gracefully on land.
As well as the ever popular meerkats the Park is also home to several other mammals including Parma Wallabies and Kangaroos. There are a number of reptiles including Pythons and two giant tortoises who at times are able to move a little more quickly than visitors might expect.
The Lemur Lodge area of Blackbrook is inhabited by several different species of Lemur whose activities are fascinating to watch.
A wide range of refreshments is available in the Park's cafe which offers indoor and outdoor seating. Visitors eating outside are advised to keep an eye on the peacocks who understandably find the cafe area very interesting.
Blackbrook Zoological Park Created by Dianne Holloway
Blackbrook was created by Dianne Holloway and her son Mark Rubery in 1991. Sadly, Dianne passed away in 2006 but Mark has continued to ensure his mother's dream is achieved.
The latest developments at the Park include the new entrance and giftshop, an underfoot aquarium exhibit and landscaping of the Park's frontage.
Blackbrook Zoological Park is located at Winkhill just outside Leek. The telephone number is 01538 308293. It opens daily at 10.00am and closes at 5.30pm. In winter it closes at dusk. The only day on which the Park does not open is Christmas Day.
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