The Bedford Estates, LondonAs the year comes to a close, Woburn Safari Park reflects on a whirlwind of exciting moments, from new arrivals to milestone celebrations and heart-warming achievements. Let’s take a look back at 2024!
A Baby Boom of Critically Endangered Species
The park proudly welcomed two critically endangered arrivals: Djembe, a playful Eastern mountain bongo calf, and Yana, a Somali wild ass foal with a big personality. These little ones stole the hearts of visitors and keepers alike, along with many other adorable arrivals, including a trio of Asian short-clawed otter pups, meerkat twins, penguin chicks and many more.
New Faces in the Safari
This year also saw some big moves! Southern white rhinos Granville and Azeeza joined the crash at the park in August, quickly settling into life on the Road Safari. With this new arrival came a fond farewell, to beloved rhino Bonnie, who moved to West Midlands Safari Park.
Over in Farmyard Friends, brand new Middle white pigs Wilbur and Winnie joined the park and have been charming visitors, while two new female Humboldt penguins splashed into the Foot Safari as part of a breeding recommendation.
Birthday Season
The park celebrated some major birthdays this year! The Asian elephant herd celebrated some big milestones. Raja and Damini celebrated their 30th birthdays this year, and visitors got involved in a celebratory photo competition. Tarli, the youngest in the Asian elephant herd, celebrated her 10th birthday in style with a homemade caterpillar cake.
Over in Kingdom of the Carnivores, brothers Kojo and Kahari celebrated their fifth birthday with a scent-sprayed present and over in Otter falls Thiên Thần turned one years old and also recently became a big sister!
Beyond the Animals
It wasn’t just the animals that had a big year. Keepers teamed up with Deanshanger Hedgehog Rescue to rehabilitate orphaned hoglets, and the education team introduced accessibility tools such as BSL signs, communication boards, and assistive website technology, to make the Park and website more accessible for everyone.
Looking Ahead
With 2025 quickly approaching, the team can’t wait to see what’s to come - from new arrivals to exciting updates about the park. Thank you for being part of another incredible year. Happy New Year from everyone at Woburn Safari Park!