Twycross Zoo expands nature reserve in major step to exceed UK biodiversity targets
8th May 2026
We're delighted to confirm that we've recently purchased 14-hectares of additional land to expand our existing nature reserve, marking a significant new chapter in our conservation work.
This acquisition will increase our 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, we 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.
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. The project represents the significant step forward we need to exceed our 30 by 30 target, set out in our conservation strategy
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 project forms part of our wider ambition to protect 30% of our land for nature by 2030, aligning with the UK Government's '30 by 30' target to reverse biodiversity loss. With this acquisition, we will increase the proportion of land dedicated to nature from 10% to over 30%, exceeding the ambitious target we set in our 2030 strategy
To mark Sir David Attenborough's 100th birthday year, we planted our first 100 trees on the newly acquired land on 22 April 2026 alongside members of the ninth 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 purchased also sits alongside the development of our 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.
To watch the special film on BBC iPlayer 
click here
