The first visitors here arrived in 1923 to view the exotic animals in what was then known as the Torbay Zoological Gardens. From its modest beginnings, Paignton Zoo is now one of Devon's top visitor attractions. Visiting Paignton Zoo today, you'll see over a hundred different species of animals, many of which are endangered. Kids will love the Ape Centre with its Bornean orang-utangs or the watching the endangered Black Rhino, Asian Elephants, elegant giraffes or walking through a paddock amongst emus and kangaroos! Other exotic animals you'll be able to see are baby baboons, cheetahs and lions. Another key attraction is the Ranch where you'll be able to walk amongst and touch various animals such as Pygmy Goats, Soay Sheep and black-tailed Prarie Dogs. Not scary enough for you? Then take a trip to the Reptile Tropics or the Desert House where you'll be able to get a close look at snakes, crocodiles, lizards and a range of creepy-crawlies.