Today, Victoria Park is one of Cardiff's most popular green spaces and a haven for dog walkers, who take their four-legged friends on a stroll through the picturesque park whatever the weather. Aside from a few canine pals and the odd pigeon or squirrel, however, the park isn't exactly teeming with exotic creatures.
But in the early 20th Century, it was home to a zoo that drew in crowds from all over the city and even further afield, with many people seeing creatures they had never heard of for the first time. You can get more news and nostalgia from CardiffOnline sent straight to your inbox by signing up to our newsletter.
While it is now best known for its popular splash pad and legendary local characters, the Canton park was the place to be in the early 1900s, with the collection of animals at the zoo expanding rapidly during its 40-year history. One of its most popular former residents has even been immortalised in a statue in the park, as well as inspiring a well-known folk song.
