15 awesome facts about Perth Zoo, Australia
Perth Zoo is a popular zoological park located in South Perth, Western Australia. Here are some must know facts about Perth Zoo:
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Area of Perth zoo
1. Perth Zoo covers an area of 41 acres (17 hectares) and is beautifully landscaped with lush gardens, walkways, and exhibits. It is situated approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) from the city center. It was first opened in 1898 and is the oldest zoo in Western Australia. It is also one of the most visited attractions in the state, receiving more than 600,000 visitors annually.
2. The zoo is divided into several themed precincts, including the African Savannah, Asian Rainforest, Australian Bushwalk, and Nocturnal House. It is home to over 1,200 animals from around the world, representing more than 160 species.
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3. The zoo offers a wide range of animal exhibits, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Visitors can see animals like lions, elephants, rhinoceroses, giraffes, hippopotamuses, meerkats, dingoes, crocodiles, koalas, and many more.
4. One of the main attractions at Perth Zoo is the African Savannah exhibit, which features a large area where animals roam freely, recreating their natural habitat. Visitors can observe species such as zebras, giraffes, ostriches, and the rare Rothschild’s giraffes.
Conservation
5. Perth Zoo is actively involved in conservation efforts, both locally and internationally. It supports initiatives to protect and restore native wildlife and their habitats, as well as global programs for the conservation of endangered species.
6. The zoo is known for its successful breeding programs, particularly for threatened species. It has achieved significant milestones in breeding rare animals like the numbat, Sumatran orangutan, Asian elephants, Sumatran tigers and critically endangered Western Swamp Tortoise.
7. Perth Zoo offers a variety of educational programs and activities, including guided tours, wildlife talks, and animal encounters. These programs aim to raise awareness about conservation and inspire visitors to take action to protect our planet’s biodiversity.
8. The zoo is committed to sustainability and reducing its ecological footprint. It has implemented initiatives such as waste management, energy conservation, organic gardening, and eco-friendly architecture.
Collaboration
9. Perth Zoo actively collaborates with research organizations, universities, and other zoos to contribute to scientific knowledge and better understand animal behavior, reproduction, and conservation.
10. The zoo is accessible and visitor-friendly, with amenities such as cafes, picnic areas, gift shops, and stroller and wheelchair rentals available on-site.
11. The zoo is known for its diverse collection of animals, including native Australian species like kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and Tasmanian devils. It also houses exotic animals such as orangutans, giraffes, lions, tigers, penguins, and reptiles.
12. One of the highlights of Perth Zoo is the Australian Walkabout exhibit, where visitors can walk through open enclosures and get up close to animals like kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and parrots.
Zookeeper for a day
13. The zoo offers various interactive experiences and behind-the-scenes encounters, including close encounters with giraffes, meerkats, and reptiles, as well as the opportunity to become a zookeeper for a day. This is well loved especially by kids and teens.
14. The Native Species Breeding Program, managed by Perth Zoo, aims to conserve and increase the populations of endangered or vulnerable native species, such as the numbat, Western Swamp Tortoise, and Boodie.
15. The zoo is committed to sustainable practices and has implemented various environmentally friendly initiatives, including water conservation efforts, waste reduction programs, and solar power installations.
Overall, Perth Zoo offers an enriching and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages, combining the opportunity to see diverse wildlife, engage in educational programs, and support conservation efforts.
