WATCH: Major transformation underway at Paignton Zoo
The first new animal arrivals are expected around Easter with white rhino due to arrive in the Summer
Today we can reveal there's plans for white rhinos - as well as four new themed areas including grassland, wetlands and rainforests - at Paignton Zoo.
The Dutch firm, which has taken over from the Wild Planet Trust, has revealed a major investment in the site and work is now underway on the most significant redevelopment in its 103-year history.
The Libéma group says 'these developments mark a shift towards larger, mixed-species environments designed to better reflect natural ecosystems'.
Under the plans a new grasslands zone will see the existing giraffe paddock being expanded into a large mixed-species savannah - with the return of zebras, joined by ostrich and blesbok.
Below that a new 'plains habitat' is being created for white rhinoceros - by enhancing the area previously used for black rhinos and strengthing the site's commitment to conservation.
The wider grasslands area will also introduce habitats inspired by different continents. In the South American-inspired Andean Pampa, species such as rhea and vicuña will take up residence, while the Central Asian Steppe will become home to Bactrian camels and yak.
The future Wetlands zone includes a new habitat being prepared for sitatunga - a rare antelope species known for its ability to move through water.
Komodo dragons will feature in the redesigned rainforests and Islands zones along with babirusa (or deer pig) and saki monkeys. New routes around the zoo are also being created.
Steven van den Heuvel, transition manager for Paignton Zoo, said: "What we’re doing is not just updating individual habitats, but rethinking the entire visitor experience and how we tell the story of the animals in our care.
"Grasslands is the first major step, but it’s part of a much bigger transformation happening across the whole site. Over time, visitors will see new species, new habitats, and a completely new way of exploring the zoo.
"Importantly, this evolution stays true to what Paignton Zoo has always stood for. Conservation, education, and animal welfare remain at the heart of everything we do, and this investment allows us to strengthen that work for the future.
"Conservation remains at the core of Paignton Zoo’s work, with international breeding programmes for endangered species continuing alongside the redevelopment.
"Plans are also underway to introduce new fundraising initiatives to support conservation projects both in the UK and overseas."