Research and Conservation Officer, Laura Warner, assisting Dr. Thomas Hilderbrandt from the Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in Berlin, with an ultrasound on one of our female African Elephants (Loxodonta africana).	Taking scientific measurement's of a sedated Gemsbok (Oryx gazella), whilst being fitted with a radio tracking collar in our sister park, Ongava, Namibia.

Veterinary Nurse, Lucy Pearsall, assisting with the fitting of an experimental tracking collar on one of our (sedated) female Southern White Rhinoceroses (Ceratotherium simum) for possible future use in the wild.

West Midland Safari Park provides academic students and researchers, with an opportunity to scientifically study many aspects of animal biology, which may not otherwise be possible. West Midland Safari Park uses an analogy called “The Living Laboratory” when referring to its research; advancements in technology and veterinary science can be tested in a controlled environment before use in the wild.

Research at West Midland Safari Park also develops the skills and knowledge required, to provide and practice the highest standards of animal care and welfare.  Furthermore, we aim to undertake research that will highlight important factors that are vital for overall species conservation. Find out more about Research & Conservation by West Midland Safari Park

Conservation efforts both in the wild (in situ conservation-SSSI Conservation Work) and in captivity (ex situ conservation) should “effectively enhance the survival of species and habitats” (DEFRA Zoo Training Seminar 2006).

Zoological collections represent a genetic bank of animals, for potential use in replenishing stocks of wild populations. Re-introduction programmes using animals from captivity has resulted in saving several species from the brink of extinction in the wild, for example the Addax (Addax nasomaculatus), Przewalski’s Horse (Equus przewalskii) and Père David’s Deer (Elaphurus davidianus).

A number of the animals at West Midland Safari Park are part of international breeding programmes, such as the European Endangered Species Programme (EEPs) and European Stud Books (ESBs). These are managed by the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) and aim to preserve threatened species through managing the genetic diversity of captive populations of wild animals. Find out more about breeding programmes and the Animal Collection Plan at West Midland Safari Park

In addition, we support and participate in a number of in situ conservation programmes both nationally and internationally, most notably through working in partnership with our sister park in Ongava, Namibia. Ongava Research Centre was opened in June 2006 by Ivan Knezovich, Managing Director for West Midland Safari Park. West Midland Safari Park not only financially sponsor Ongava Research Centre, but support it in any way they can, from providing veterinary supplies, to testing radio collars. Find out more information regarding the Research and Conservation by Ongava.

The Addax (Addax nasomaculatus) (Above left), Banteng (Bos javanicus) (Above right) and also Philippine Spotted Deer (Cervus alfredi) at West Midland Safari Park are just a few examples of species that participate in international breeding programmes.