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Gerald Durrell’s Centenary: a year of celebrations starts today
Today, Tuesday 7 January 2025, Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust is celebrating what would have been the 100th birthday of its founder, the world-renowned author and naturalist Gerald Durrell.
To mark the momentous occasion, surrounded by close friends and special guests, Lee Durrell, widow of Gerald, unveiled a plaque at the Manor House where the conservationist famously lived within the grounds of Jersey Zoo.
The plaque, located on the south side of the Manor House, contains the following words:
Gerald Durrell 1925 – 1995
Celebrated writer, naturalist and conservation visionary, Gerald Durrell lived here at Les Augrès Manor from 1959 until 1995. Born in India, he spent his formative years in Corfu, which inspired his lifelong mission to save species from extinction. He founded Jersey Zoo in 1959 and a charitable trust in 1963. Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust is respected throughout the world as a pioneer in wildlife and habitat conservation. Behind you lie Gerald’s ashes under the stone of Jersey granite.
Durrell’s 2025 calendar is packed full of celebrations to honour the legacy of its founder and share the impact the charity has today on saving threatened species, protecting their habitats and supporting local communities.
From a challenging trek in India to visit the Trust’s endangered pygmy hog breeding and release programme, to a showstopping gala ball, fun-filled family events and a stunning art installation here at Jersey Zoo, there will be something for everyone to get involved in to celebrate 100 years of Gerald Durrell. Lee Durrell will also be doing a book signing of Gerald Durrell’s posthumous book, Myself and Other Animals, on Sunday 12th January from 11am–1pm at Jersey Zoo’s gift shop.
If your organisation would like to be a part of this unforgettable year, Durrell has some unique partnership opportunities available in 2025. More information can be found at durrell.org/gd100 or contact one of the team: durrell.org/contact-us