Roaring Turf Results for Hertfordshire Zoo

Roaring Turf Results for Hertfordshire Zoo

About Hertfordshire Zoo

First opening as Broxbourne Zoo in the 1960s, there have been numerous positive changes since the Sampson family took over in the early 1980s. With their drive and passion for rare and endangered animals, they created a conservation and preservation site that we can all be proud of – a place now known as Hertfordshire Zoo.

The original conditions of the Zoo were extremely poor. The Sampsons faced numerous challenges and worked hard to create environments that reflected the natural habitats of each creature. With such an amazing transformation, maintaining high standards remains at the heart of what they do, to benefit both animals and visitors.

So, when Hertfordshire Zoo began seeking the best grass for their newest habitats and residents, they reached out to George Davies Turf & Stone, and we were more than happy to help!

The requirements

With the Zoo preparing to open a brand-new Lions of India habitat and an open-air space for their existing alpaca and goat residents, they needed a reliable delivery of high-quality turf. Appreciating the importance of installing the right environment for these magnificent animals, they wanted a type of turf that not only withstands the weight of these mammals, but also the daily wear and tear of their paws and hooves.

We therefore recommended our premium Trident Turf for its hardiness and resilience as well as its consistent green colour, which will look great in the habitat throughout the year. Our driver, Laurence, delivered 330m² of turf to Hertfordshire Zoo, giving them plenty of time for it to be rolled out and settle in before the grand opening.

Laurence shared, “Because the Zoo was already open when I arrived, I didn’t want to block the way for visitors. That’s the beauty of our Manitous; I could park out of the way and move the five pallets of turf right where they wanted them. It was a great delivery; the staff were so friendly and the job was done in 15 minutes!”

The outcomes and results

The new areas were officially opened on Tuesday, 1st April 2025, during an impressive Lions of India launch event. With Jessica Wright hosting the official opening, there was also a talk from Hertfordshire Zoo’s founder, Peter Sampson and CEO, Lynn Whitnall, cutting the ribbon.

Our turf lay proudly as two incredible Indian lions, Sonika and Sahee, were welcomed to their new home. Their habitat consists of various levels, diverse fauna, water, soil, and grass, which provide multiple textures for the animals and help replicate their natural environment. Our Trident Turf will go towards creating a space for the lions to rest, play, and use the grass to cool down.

In the alpaca and goat habitat, the Trident Turf installation offers a new texture for the animals to explore, graze and relax. As herbivores, we’re sure it’ll be a very tasty treat too, and with Trident Turf’s quick recovery and regrowth rate, this resilient turf should provide healthy ground cover for years to come. The area also features a walk-through area where visitors can meet the goats and alpacas and experience our excellent turf firsthand!

We are extremely proud to be part of such an exciting project and to see the animals happily settle into their new home.