Twycross Zoo expands nature reserve in major step to exceed UK biodiversity targets

Conservation charity Twycross Zoo is delighted to confirm that it has purchased 14-hectares of additional land to expand its existing nature reserve and mark a significant new chapter in its conservation work.

The acquisition will increase the zoo’s current 4-hectare nature reserve more than fourfold, creating a space equivalent to approximately nine football pitches and eventually creating substantial new habitat for wildlife.

Rather than using the land for traditional zoo development, the charity will dedicate the space entirely to nature, transforming it over several years from agricultural land into a diverse mix of habitats, including woodland, wildflower meadows and wetland environments.

Once established, it’s expected that the expanded reserve will provide vital habitats for a range of native species, including harvest mice and rare butterflies such as the white-letter hairstreak, helping to strengthen biodiversity across the local landscape.

The project forms part of the zoo’s wider ambition to protect 30% of its land for nature by 2030, aligning with the UK Government’s ‘30 by 30’ target to reverse biodiversity loss. With this acquisition, Twycross Zoo will increase the proportion of land dedicated to nature from 10% to over 30%, exceeding the ambitious target it set out in its 2030 strategy. 

Poignantly, to mark Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday year, Twycross Zoo planted its first 100 trees on the newly acquired land on 22 April 2026 alongside members of the 9th Leicester Scout and Cub Group - the same Scout group Sir David Attenborough belonged to as a child - helping to create the foundations for future woodland habitat as part of the reserve’s long-term restoration.

The land purchase also sits alongside the development of the zoo’s new £25 million Global Conservation Centre, due to open in 2027 and representing the largest investment in Twycross Zoo’s history. Located in the region where Sir David Attenborough grew up, the centre will bring together scientists, students and conservationists to tackle real-world challenges facing endangered species and biodiversity loss both in the UK and globally.

Dr Rebecca Biddle, Chief Conservation Officer, said: “This is about giving nature the space it needs to recover and thrive. Using species specific habitat management techniques, we will create conditions that allow wildlife to flourish, and a natural space in which wildlife is protected.

“As a global conservation charity, we have a responsibility to save wildlife, and that means both internationally and here at home. This project represents the significant step forward we need to exceed our 30 by 30 target, set out in our conservation strategy.

“This project will also offer opportunities to train students and showcase the importance of UK species to our future generations, whilst also become an asset to our local communities, to come and spend time in nature observing some of the most beautiful plants and animals.

“It is even more special that, in Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday year, the man who inspired so many of us to love and protect wildlife, has been celebrated in the first chapter of our new reserve – helping to create a legacy for future generations of both people, and wildlife. I’m so proud.”

The charity zoo will work with several of its conservation partners to develop plans for the expanded reserve, with habitat development and restoration work expected to start later this year.

To find out more about Twycross Zoo’s work and the Global Conservation Centre visit twycrosszoo.org