Reading Zoo
Reading Zoo

Charitable OBJECTIVES

At Beale Wildlife Park, we are immensely proud to be a charity dedicated to the conservation and development of endangered and vulnerable animal species. Our mission extends beyond providing sanctuary and exceptional care for these animals, as we actively participate in their conservation and engage the public in meaningful educational experiences.

as a charity, our objectives are

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Animal Conservation and Sanctuary

We work tirelessly to conserve and develop endangered and vulnerable animal species, providing a safe haven where they receive the best possible care.

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Promoting Biological Diversity

We strive to protect and enhance the physical and natural environment, promoting biological diversity to maintain healthy ecosystems for both wildlife and the public.

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Educational Advancement

We are dedicated to educating the public about the conservation and protection of the environment, engaging visitors of all ages through our dynamic educational programmes and initiatives.

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Sustainable Management

We ensure the sustainable development of our land, creating a varied and biodiverse habitat that benefits our native British, local wildlife.

Our Commitment to Giving Back

The Child Beale Trust was established by Gilbert Beale with a vision of creating an amenity for the public and wildlife. From its beginnings as a ‘peacock farm’, the zoo has grown over the past 60 years, expanding its mission and resources. We now manage 35-acres of wildlife zoo and an additional 315-acres of estate, providing a home to 160-species of animals and serving as a vital resource for leisure, education, and conservation in Berkshire.

For us, giving back encompasses our conservation efforts, educational programs, and community engagement. We focus on making our facilities accessible to everyone, recognising that entry fees can be a barrier for some. We collaborate with other charities who share our aims and purpose. We give back through:

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Education

We provide a dynamic learning environment that inspires and educates the public about wildlife and environmental conservation. Through interactive animal experiences, daily keeper talks, workshops, and school visits, we engage visitors of all ages, making learning about animals and their habitats both fun and informative.

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Conservation Efforts within the Zoo

Our conservation efforts include housing and breeding endangered species. For example, our new Eurasian lynx enclosure, one of the largest in the UK, has led to the birth of two lynx kittens. This success story, along with educational interpretation boards and feeding experiences, helps raise awareness of the lynx’s plight in the wild.

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Conservation Efforts within the Wider Estate.

We manage 40 acres of arable land to grow pollen and nectar, supporting a year-round habitat for birds and wildlife. Our dormouse monitoring program in Tookie Woods has boosted the population of Hazel dormice, adding to the National Dormouse Monitoring Programme. We work with various organisations to enhance and restore floodplain habitats, and we manage hedges to ensure a diverse structure for native wildlife.

Community Engagement

We partner with several other charities to offer free trips to the zoo for those who would benefit most but may not otherwise be able to afford it. Our partners include Make a Wish Foundation, Mustard Tree, Jigsaw Creative Care, and more. We also offer Zoo Club scholarships for local Pupil Premium children, allowing them to participate in our after-school Zoo Club courses.

All of our initiatives mentioned above have significantly impacted wildlife conservation, education, and community engagement. We breed endangered animal species, participate in national research projects, and offer dynamic learning experiences. Our efforts ensure broader community access to conservation and educational opportunities.

Thank you for joining us in our mission to make a positive impact on the world. Together, we can create a brighter future for wildlife and the natural environment.

Support Beale Wildlife Park with a Donation

Every donation makes a difference.

At our zoo, we’re passionate about protecting animals, nurturing nature, and inspiring the next generation of wildlife lovers. As an independent zoo and registered charity, we rely on the generosity of our visitors and supporters to help us care for our animals, maintain our beautiful grounds, and deliver vital education and conservation work.

Your donation helps us:

  • Provide expert care, enrichment, and welfare for our animals
  • Run engaging education programmes for schools and families
  • Support wider conservation efforts to protect wildlife in the UK and beyond

Whether it’s a one-off gift or a regular monthly donation, your support helps us continue our mission to protect, preserve, and inspire.