BIAZA Mammal Working Group Conference

The BIAZA Mammal Working Group Conference 6-7 May 2026. 

Run by the BIAZA Mammal Working Group (MWG), the Conference provides fantastic opportunities to share best practices and network with like-minded peers. During this two-day event there is time to learn about a range of topics across mammal taxa, that could have a direct impact on your institution, the animals you work with, and support your continued professional development.

Bookings now open. Registration for BIAZA members is £90 for both days (including the evening meal). A different delegate form the same BIAZA institution can attend the second day if required.

We invite you to submit proposals for talks on any topic related to the care and conservation of mammals. Our aim is to provide a diverse and engaging program that reflects the breadth of expertise within our community. We also welcome poster presentations on a wide range of subjects within the field. To submit a proposal for either a talk or a poster, please complete the relevant submission form below and return it to Jessie Boylan ([email protected]) and Peter Watson ([email protected]).

For the second year running, the Mammal Working Group is offering a grant for up to two people to attend, covering up to £200 each towards travel, accommodation and registration. This is to help keepers who have not attended before and facilitate this fantastic CPD and networking opportunity. The deadline for submissions is 15th February 2026.  To apply, please complete the relevant submission form below and return it to Jessie Boylan ([email protected]) and Peter Watson ([email protected]).

Useful Information

Raffle – We will be holding a raffle with proceeds going to the host’s conservation charity choice. Prizes brought along for this would be greatly appreciated.

Ice Breaker – Marwell Hotel

Evening meal – On Wednesday 6th May we will host a meal at Marwell Zoo which is included in your ticket price. Please ensure your dietary requirements have been included at time of booking.

Accommodation
Marwell Hotel, Thompsons Lane, Colden Common, SO21 1JY – 0.5miles
Please call us on 01962777681 or email us via [email protected] and state that you are attending the Marwell Zoo Mammal Working Group Conference to receive the discounted rate.
You will be asked to reserve a bedroom under their name and individually guarantee their bedrooms with a credit/debit card number.
Single occupancy Bed & Breakfast - £75.00 per night
Double Occupancy Bed & Breakfast - £85.00 per night

Travel Lodge – Eastleigh Central, 26 Southampton Road, Eastleigh, SO50 9FJ - 3.6miles

Travel Lodge – Southampton Eastleigh, St Francis House, 21 Castle Way, Southampton, SO14 2BW - 4.6miles

Premier Inn – Southampton Eastleigh, Leigh Road, Eastleigh, SO50 9XY – 6.9miles

Premier Inn – Winnall Manor Road, Winchester, SO23 7RT 8.2miles

How to get to Marwell Zoo
By Car
We are situated just off the B2177 between Colden Common and Bishops Waltham. Just follow the large brown tourist signs. If you’re planning a motorway route, then head off the M3 at J11 or the M27 at J10 (westbound) or J5 (eastbound).

Marwell Wildlife
Thompsons Lane,
Colden Common
SO21 1JH

By Rail
The nearest mainline train stations are Southampton Airport Parkway (7 miles), Eastleigh (5 miles) and Winchester (8 miles). Local rail information can be found at www.threeriversrail.com

Taxi numbers
Royal Winchester Cars 0333 256 9956
Winchester Capital Cars 01962 925925
Eastleigh Cab Company 02380 651111
Apple Taxis Eastleigh 02380 62062