Howletts houses the largest population of captive-born Western lowland gorillas in the world.
The park operates a successful rewilding program that has released over 80 gorillas back into the wild in Gabon and Congo.
It is the only wild animal park in the UK to have bred the rare giant anteater.
The site maintains a specialized breeding group of Javan langurs, one of the rarest primates globally.
Several of the park's elephant calves are part of international conservation breeding programs.
The park was founded by John Aspinall, who was known for his unorthodox approach to animal husbandry and close contact with predators.
Howletts Wild Animal Park is a 90-acre site near Canterbury dedicated to the conservation of rare and endangered species. It serves as the flagship park for The Aspinall Foundation, which focuses on captive breeding and rewilding programs. The park holds the largest breeding herd of African elephants in the United Kingdom. It is home to the world's largest family group of captive gorillas. Visitors can observe animals in spacious enclosures that simulate natural environments. The park features a significant collection of big cats, including tigers and leopards. Breeding and release programs here have successfully reintroduced Western lowland gorillas into the wild. The site integrates educational initiatives with animal husbandry.
The viewing platform near the primary gorilla habitat offers the best vantage point for observing complex social behaviors.
Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes as the park covers 90 acres with significant inclines.
Check the daily keeper talk schedule upon arrival to observe feedings and animal training sessions.
Bring binoculars for the best views of the primates and big cats in larger enclosures.
Do not expect a traditional zoo experience with small cages; the park is expansive and animals may be difficult to spot if they are resting in thicket areas.
Open daily throughout the year except for Christmas Day.
Do not feed the animals, refrain from tapping on glass enclosures, and keep voices low near primate habitats to avoid stressing the animals.
