Native Species Appreciation Day at Fife Zoo: A Family Wildlife Event in Fife

If you’re looking for things to do in Fife with kids, a family day out in Scotland, or a fun wildlife event near Cupar, join us at Fife Zoo on Saturday 9th May for our Native Species Appreciation Day.

Held in support of Be Kind to Animals Month, this special event celebrates Scotland’s incredible native wildlife, from garden birds and hedgehogs to bats, insects, reptiles and amphibians. It’s a brilliant opportunity for families, animal lovers and curious children to learn more about the wildlife living right here on our doorstep.

With visiting wildlife groups, animal-themed activities, meet-and-greets and hands-on learning, Native Species Appreciation Day is a great way to enjoy a meaningful family day out at Fife Zoo while discovering more about the natural world.

A Wildlife Event in Fife for the Whole Family

Fife Zoo is already a popular choice for families searching for animal attractions in Fife, family days out near Cupar, and things to do near St Andrews, Dundee and Edinburgh. Native Species Appreciation Day adds even more to your visit, with a special focus on the birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and insects found across Scotland.

When people think of a zoo, they often think of exotic animals from around the world. While these species are an important part of our conservation and education work, this event shines a light on the amazing animals living much closer to home.

Scotland’s native species are found in gardens, woodlands, parks, ponds, fields and coastal habitats. Some are easy to spot, while others are much more secretive. Native Species Appreciation Day is designed to help visitors learn how to recognise, understand and support them.

Meet Local Wildlife Groups at Fife Zoo

We’re delighted to welcome several fantastic organisations and wildlife groups to Fife Zoo for the day. Visitors will have the chance to meet:

RSPB Learn more about Scotland’s native birds, garden wildlife, bird conservation and simple ways to support birds at home and in local green spaces.

Burntisland Hedgehog Haven Discover more about hedgehogs, the challenges they face, and how small changes in gardens and outdoor spaces can help protect these much-loved native mammals.

Fife & Kinross Bat Group Find out more about Scotland’s bats, why they matter, where they live, how they feed and why these fascinating animals are such an important part of healthy ecosystems.

These meet-and-greets are ideal for families, children, wildlife enthusiasts and anyone who wants to ask questions about the animals they may see in their own garden, school grounds, local park or countryside walks.

Get Up Close With Exotic Insects and Learn About Native Species

As part of the event, visitors can get close to some of our exotic insects and learn about their native counterparts.

Insects are a huge part of the natural world. They pollinate plants, break down natural materials, provide food for birds and mammals, and help support entire ecosystems. By looking at exotic insects up close, visitors can better understand the importance of the insects living here in Scotland too.

This makes Native Species Appreciation Day a great Family Wildlife Event in Fife, an educational visit for children, home educators, schools, families, and anyone interested in nature, wildlife, and conservation.

Family Activities: Face Painting, Arts and Crafts

Native Species Appreciation Day is designed to be fun, welcoming and family-friendly. Alongside the visiting wildlife groups and educational activities, there will also be:

Face painting Arts and crafts Wildlife learning Native species activities Opportunities to discover more about Scotland’s birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and insects

Whether your children already love animals or are just starting to take an interest in wildlife, this event is a lovely way to encourage curiosity, kindness and confidence around nature.

Why Native Wildlife Matters

Native wildlife plays an important role in the health of our environment. Birds, bats, hedgehogs, frogs, toads, bees, beetles and other species all form part of Scotland’s wider ecosystems.

When native species are doing well, it often shows that the habitats around them are healthier too. Gardens, parks, ponds, hedgerows, woodlands and wild spaces can all provide food, shelter and safe routes for wildlife.

There are simple ways we can all be kinder to animals and support native species, including:

• planting pollinator-friendly flowers

• avoiding pesticides where possible

• creating a small wild area in the garden

• leaving gaps for hedgehogs to move safely between gardens

• putting up bird boxes or bat boxes

• keeping ponds and water sources safe for wildlife

• supporting local wildlife charities and conservation groups

Native Species Appreciation Day is a chance to learn more, ask questions and take away practical ideas that can make a real difference.

Plan Your Visit to Fife Zoo on Saturday 9th May

If you’re searching for things to do in Fife with kids, family days out in Fife, wildlife events in Scotland, or an animal attraction near Cupar, Native Species Appreciation Day is a brilliant reason to visit Fife Zoo.

Join us on Saturday 9th May for a fun, educational and wildlife-filled day in support of Be Kind to Animals Month.

Meet local wildlife groups, enjoy family activities, get close to incredible insects and discover more about the native species living across Scotland.

Learn, discover and care at Fife Zoo’s Native Species Appreciation Day.