Overview
Fota Wildlife Park is an open-range zoo on Fota Island in Cork Harbour, where many species roam freely through 100 acres of parkland. It is one of Ireland's most popular family attractions.
Highlights
- Free-roaming animals: Lemurs, wallabies, and peacocks wander openly among visitors.
- Cheetah Run: One of Europe's best cheetah breeding programmes, with regular feeding times.
- Tropical House: A climate-controlled walk-through exhibit with butterflies, marmosets, and tropical birds.
History
Fota Wildlife Park opened in 1983 as a conservation initiative of the Zoological Society of Ireland. Its open-range philosophy was radical for its time. The park has successfully bred endangered species including Scimitar-horned Oryx and European Bison.
Visitor Tips
- Train: Take the Cork–Cobh line to Fota station — the park entrance is a 5-minute walk.
- Feeding times: Check the daily schedule at the entrance for keeper talks and feeding demonstrations.
- Duration: 2.5–3.5 hours.