Paignton Zoo is a zoo in Paignton, Devon, England. The zoo started as a private collection in the grounds of his home, Primley House, by avid animal collector and breeder, Herbert Whitley. It was opened to the public on a number of occasions, and closed twice due to disputes with the tax authorities. On Whitley's death, the zoo was signed over to a trust, to be run as a public attraction. The zoo has a collection of about 2,000 animals representing nearly 300 species, and it also cultivates abou…