Sparsholt College is the first UK land-based college to sign a contract with a Chinese zoo to provide nutritional consultancy. Sparsholt will be working with Chimelong Safari Park in Guangzhou, (one of the largest urban zoos in China) near Hong Kong assisting with the development of their animal husbandry and knowledge of zoo animal nutrition.

Under the terms of the pioneering agreement Andy Beer, Sparsholt College’s Director of Zoo Management studies will provide dietary guidance to the safari park beginning with their hoofstock and primates. He will develop an analytical facility at the zoo and facilitate staff training with a view to launching the College’s unique DMZAA (Diploma in the Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals) in 2017.

Andy Beer, Sparsholt College course director and animal nutrition expert said: “This latest contract extends Sparsholt’s international provision and validates our reputation as a centre of excellence recognised by international partners. It also raises our profile among the zoo community in China who we are looking to work more closely with in the future. The agreement goes beyond our normal scoop of operation in delivering education programmes, in that it underpins our position as providers of specialist knowledge and expertise to the industries we engage with.”

The College has developed an international reputation in zoo studies and for the training and development of Zoo Keepers around the world. Chimelong joins some of the world’s leading zoos working with the College from Russia, the Middle East, the Baltic States and all UK major zoos and collections.

The DMZZA is a partnership between BIAZA and Sparsholt College.  The two year programme is delivered by distance learning and is designed for people already working in a zoo or with an animal collection.

For further information please email Andy Beer at Andy.Beer@Sparsholt.ac.uk.