The Zoo is an observational documentary about real life at a zoo with a comedy spin. If you ever wanted to find out what makes our animal friends tick – thanks to the power of animation they can now tell us. Gorillas, penguins and giraffes will all take lead roles, and we find out that it’s often the animals that have the last laugh over the staff. Paignton Zoo’s animal characters will be given human voices and computer generated moving mouths.

Cheryl Taylor, Controller of CBBC, said: “This new series promises our young audience a fact-filled and fun packed series centered around the fascinating characters and everyday adventures at the zoo.”

Josh Scherba, SVP Distribution of DHX Media, said: “We are delighted to once again be teaming up with CBBC on a new kids’ show. Working with the wonderful staff and animals of Paignton Zoo, we think The Zoo promises to be a terrific and entertaining show from which kids worldwide can enjoy animal stories direct from the horse’s mouth, so to speak.”

Paignton Zoo Executive Director Simon Tonge said: “It’s a pleasure to have the BBC with us. This show will blend animal science and conservation information with engaging character-driven comedy. It will reach a really important audience for us and do it in a way that is appealing and memorable.”

Filming begins at Paignton Zoo in July 2024 and will continue over the summer.

The Zoo is commissioned by Cheryl Taylor, Controller of CBBC, and is produced by the BBC Natural History Unit in collaboration with DHX Media. The Executive Producer is Jonny Keeling and the Series Producer is Aaron Paul.