Conservation at Old MacDonald’s Farm Essex

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Conservation Efforts at Old McDonald’s Farm

What We’ve Achieved

Supporting Ex-Situ Conservation

Our team regularly supports conservation work at Rainham Marshes, including clearing reed beds, litter picking and helping to maintain important habitats for local wildlife. These activities also give our team valuable opportunities to learn more about British wildlife and the conservation of native species.

Our animal husbandry team also supports the International Otter Survival Fund through activities such as beach clean-ups, marine-life research and otter conservation. We continue to explore opportunities to work with zoos, wildlife organisations and conservation specialists on projects, research and educational initiatives.

As part of our ongoing commitment to conservation, we are developing ways to help visitors learn more about wildlife, rare breeds and protecting the natural environment. Our plans include creating wildlife-friendly habitats, supporting responsible breeding programmes and providing volunteering and work-experience opportunities for young people interested in animal care and conservation.

Conservation Efforts at Old MacDonald’s Farm

Who We Support

We are dedicated to preserving the lives of endangered wild animals so we support the causes of the International Otter Survival Fund (IOSF) and The Zoological Society of Hertfordshire (ZSH).

Each of these wonderful charities helps to support vital breeding programmes and conservational studies to help endangered species of Big Cats and Otters.

Zoological Society of Hertfordshire (ZSH)

International Otter Survival Fund (IOSF)

New Additions

We’ve introduced rare breed animals like Golden Guernsey goats, Oxford Sandy and Black piglets, Border Leicester sheep, and a Dartmoor foal. We’re awaiting rare blue turkeys and will develop breeding programs for these species. Education and Breeding: By becoming a rare breed centre, we aim to educate visitors about conservation and strengthen bloodlines for breeding programs across the UK. Plans for the Next Three Years - Wildlife Garden.

Educational Initiative:

We’re planning a wildlife garden in collaboration with Essex Wildlife Trust to educate the public about local wildlife. The garden will feature a variety of habitats, including a pollinator meadow, bug hotels, and bird-friendly areas. Implementation: The garden will include plants that attract insects, log and leaf piles, bird boxes, feeders, and a bird bath, creating a sanctuary for wildlife and serving as an educational resource for school trips. Ongoing Conservation Activities

Volunteering:

We will continue to volunteer at Rainham Marshes, helping with litter picking and reed bed maintenance. Marine Conservation: Our husbandry team will assist IOSF with beach clean-ups and otter research in Inverness.

Research Collaborations:

Our veterinarian, William Lewis, is working with Banham Zoo to arrange conservation trips and research programs. Volunteer and Work Experience Programs.

Youth Engagement:

We are developing a volunteer and work experience program to help young people gain experience with rare breed animals and learn about conservation and animal care.