The park was founded in 1993 by the Troskie family as a private bird sanctuary before expanding into a zoo.
Lory Park serves as a refuge for many animals that have been surrendered or confiscated, rather than purchased for display.
The sanctuary participates in breeding programs for rare species like the white lion.
Visitors are often invited to participate in guided feeding demonstrations that allow for supervised contact with specific animals.
The facility is designed with a layout that minimizes the distance between visitors and animal enclosures to improve educational accessibility.
Lory Park has successfully rehabilitated various injured indigenous bird species for re-release into the wild.
Lory Park Zoo is a family-run animal and bird sanctuary located in Midrand, South Africa, focused on animal welfare and educational interaction. The park operates as a registered zoo that specializes in the rescue and rehabilitation of various species. Visitors can view a diverse collection of predators, primates, and birds housed within intimate, landscaped enclosures. Unlike larger commercial facilities, the park emphasizes a close-up experience where keepers frequently facilitate direct engagement with select animals. The facility serves as a non-profit-oriented space that prioritizes the health and psychological well-being of its residents. It maintains a distinct park-like atmosphere designed for families and those interested in wildlife conservation.
The elevated observation decks near the big cat enclosures provide the best unobstructed angles for photography.
Bring a camera with a macro lens, as the intimate enclosure design allows for exceptionally close wildlife photography.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes as the pathways are predominantly gravel and natural terrain.
Check the facility’s official social media pages before arrival, as they frequently post updates regarding special interactive sessions and animal feedings.
Do not attempt to pet or touch animals outside of the supervised, keeper-led interactive sessions to ensure both visitor safety and animal welfare.
Closed on Mondays, except during school and public holidays.
Maintain a quiet demeanor near animal enclosures, follow all safety instructions provided by handlers during interactive sessions, and do not feed the animals without staff permission.
