Welcome

In 1963 Gerald Durrell proved that Zoos can actually work. But not as a place purely for the entertainment of human beings!

The visionary conservationist and famous author had a mission ‘to save species from extinction’. Durrell’s idea was to go into the wild and capture birds, animals and reptiles that were at risk, bring them back to his Zoo in the Channel Islands and provide a safe haven for them. Captivity is always a difficult word for any conservationist, but if the animals could fall in love they would mate in a safe environment. Durrell created that environment.

Today Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust has over 80 conservation projects in 18 developing countries, as well as an extensive programme of research, training, conservation and breeding of endangered species, both in the wild and in breeding centres. With a global reputation for conservation through field projects, breeding, re-introduction and research, Durrell has the pre-eminent expertise in hands-on management of endangered species.

Durrell’s achievements of breeding animals in captivity is recognised throughout the world. The introduction of the offspring into their natural habitats is a complex matter and an integral part of the Trust’s work. This is personal work. It is involved. It takes time. It takes dedication. It is expensive. At Durrell it is successful.

When we’re in Jersey we always head for Trinity and to Jersey Zoo. This is the home of Durrell and one of our favourite places on the Island. The work that goes on at their World HQ literally touches the world!

Best wishes

David & Sue Hattersley
York, England

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