Research Mission Statement:
“To increase knowledge through sound and ethically justifiable research projects, from which benefits for a species or the management of captive species can be obtained”

Research is at the heart of modern day zoological institutions. It enables us to broaden our knowledge and understanding of all aspects of animal welfare, husbandry, biology and behaviour, environmental enrichment, ecology and conservation of animals in captivity. Research within zoological institutions also grants us the opportunity to study animals up close, which can be an extremely difficult task in the wild. The research provides us with the tools to assess and improve our animals’ welfare and therefore help us to fulfill our conservation goals. This knowledge can then also be applied to aid research and conservation of species in the wild.  

Research projects at Blair Drummond Safari Park facilitate both undergraduate and postgraduate studies. All research is coordinated by our Research Department in close collaboration with animal keepers. A research project suggestion list is compiled annually, which we would like to be completed. An up to date version of this list can be sent to you on request, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . We may also accept research proposals, these will be assessed by our Research Department in terms of ethical guidelines, feasibility with respect to animals and animal keepers and scientific validity of the project. Your applications will be; accepted, returned with requests for modifications and/or alterations, or rejected.

Before completing an application form please read the information compiled by the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquaria, BIAZA Research Group www.biaza.org.uk/public/pages/research/, this provides very useful information on zoo research, such as project planning, sampling and observation techniques, ethics and statistics, and research guidelines. Please also read the Blair Drummond Safari Park Research Policy which provides important information concerning terms and conditions of research at the park.

Click here to download a Research Project Application form.


If you have any queries or problems, please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  


For researchers who have been accepted for a research project please click here for Arrival Information.