Belfast Zoo - Great Tourist Attractions

Belfast Zoo was first opened on 28 March 1934 by Belfast Lord Mayor Sir Crawford McCullough costing £10,000 to build. During its first year 284,713 people visited the new attraction.

The zoo suffered during the Second World War when the Ministry of Public Security ordered the destruction of 33 animals. The measure was taken as a precaution and included the destruction of lions, wolves and polar bears in case they escaped during German aerial attacks on the city. After the war the zoo was unable to replace its animals until 1947 but continued to decline through the 1950s and 1960s.

Work on a new Belfast Zoo started in 1974 and to this day is financially supported by Belfast City Council.

Animals at Belfast Zoo include sea lions, an eagle, pygmy goats, Andean bear, geese, Asian elephants, Bali starling, Barbary lion, monkeys and their latest arrival a hyena.