Historical video gallery

You'll find videos showing the development of Belfast Zoo in the 1970s and 1980s here.

We would like to thank UTV for providing us with the footage.

You will need either Windows Media Player or Quicktime to view our videos. Text transcripts of each clip are also available. All the videos open in a new window.

Use the links below to select which video you would like to watch:

Possible expansion of the zoo site (1973)

This video clip, from 1973, shows Dr Gracey, former chief vet at Belfast Zoo, speaking about the possible expansion of the zoo site.

Length of clip: 0:54


Myles the tiger cub (1977)

This video clip, from 1977, shows the former Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Myles Humphreys, speaking about the zoo’s first tiger cubs.

Length of clip: 2:20


New tiger cubs (1977)

This video clip, from 1977, shows a zookeeper talking about the zoo's three new tiger cubs.

Length of clip: 1:05

Zoo animals

This video clip shows some of the zoo's former residents.

Length of clip: 3:30


Official opening of new zoo entrance (1983)

This video clip shows Councillor A. Cairns officially opening the new zoo entrance on October 7, 1983.

Length of clip: 1:07

Our animals

Belfast Zoo is home to more than 1,200 animals and 140 different species.

The majority of our animals are in danger in their natural habitat.

About the zoo

Belfast Zoo opened in 1934 and is one of Northern Ireland's top attractions.

It receives more than 300,000 visitors a year.

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