Zoo future 'very positive' despite pressures

Jersey Zoo's future is "very positive" despite the financial challenges facing the conservation charity behind it, according to its director of zoo operations.

The optimistic message from Mark Habben comes after zoo owner the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust reported a net deficit of £3.9m in 2025, and acknowledged pressure on its finances.

Habben, who joined Jersey Zoo in January after senior roles at London Zoo, Whipsnade Zoo and the Wildwood Trust, said: "I think the future looks very positive."

Habben said a busy summer had made a "huge difference" to the organisation, both financially and in helping create a place islanders could feel proud of.

"Having a busy summer, having people through the doors means everything to us and it's how we operate," he said.

He explained visitor income, memberships and donations helped fund conservation work not just in Jersey but around the world, including projects in Mauritius protecting endangered species.

"I've got a really positive, very engaged team of keepers and project team staff all really engaged and working really hard to do the very best for the zoo to make it somewhere that the island is very proud of again," he said.

"I'm very excited for the future. I think we've got some really exciting plans moving forward."

Habben added that continuing to tell conservation success stories would help attract new supporters and secure the zoo's future for years to come.

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