Sprawling across 900 acres of old growth native bushland in the picturesque Tamar Valley, Tasmania Zoo is home to the largest collection of both native and exotic animals in the state. The park is a privately owned, family run operation, and conducts an important breeding program for Tasmanian devils.
In addition to its endemic Tasmanian devils, the zoo provides a home for wombats, quolls, emus, kangaroos, koalas, ring-tailed lemur, capybara and marmoset, with many of the animals having been injured or orphaned and unable to return to the wild. It also boasts the largest primate collection of any privately-owned zoo in Australia, including the rare celebes crested macaque. It offers up close encounters with many of its animals and the opportunity to feed Tasmanian devils, meerkats and penguins. There are also around 80 different bird species found in its bushland, and the zoo prides itself on creating a natural environment for the animals, together with adhering to their natural dietary requirements.
Tasmania Zoo is situated around 18 kilometres from the city of Launceston and best accessed by private or rental car. Its location within the magnificent Tamar Valley makes it ideally explored as part of a day trip through this renowned wine growing region.
Tasmania Zoo first opened to the public in 2003 with a small collection of native animals and bird species. It has since become the only fully accredited zoo in Tasmania, with an admirable approach to wildlife education and conservation.