Tag:conservation
Located in the heart of New South Wales at Dubbo, Australia, Taronga Western Plains Zoo, also known as Dubbo Open Range Zoo, is a leading force in wildlife conservation and education. Covering over 300 hectares and 100 species, the zoo provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to observe animals in expansive, natural enclosures replicating their native habitats.
Historical Background
The Dubbo Open Range Zoo opened its gates in 1977 as a companion to the Taronga Zoo in Sydney. The goal was to establish a zoo with more space for larger animals and to support breeding programs for endangered species. Dubbo was selected as the zoo’s location because of its expansive, open landscapes, suitable climate, and distance from urban pressures. Since its founding, the zoo has expanded and developed into a prominent conservation and animal welfare advocate.
Conservation Efforts
Dubbo Open Range Zoo’s primary focus is wildlife conservation. The zoo participates in various breeding programs to protect endangered species. It is also involved in the worldwide initiative to save the critically endangered black rhinoceros. The large savannah exhibits at Dubbo create an optimal habitat for these rhinos, leading to successful breeding and providing hope for the species’ future.
The zoo also plays a vital role in conserving the Greater One-horned Rhinoceros and the African Lion. These programs ensure healthy genetic diversity within captive populations and may lead to future reintroduction into the wild. The zoo works with international conservation organisations to align its efforts with global strategies to save these animals.
Educational Programs
Education is at the core of Dubbo Open Range Zoo’s mission. The zoo provides various educational programs to engage and inspire visitors of all ages. Through interactive exhibits, guided tours, and hands-on activities, visitors learn about the significance of biodiversity and their role in conservation.
One of the zoo’s leading educational programs is the Zoo Adventures holiday program. This program offers children a unique chance to participate in animal-themed activities led by the animal keepers, giving them an inside look at the zoo. Through this experience, children learn about animal care and conservation efforts. The zoo’s education centre also welcomes school groups and provides curriculum-aligned lessons that make learning about wildlife enjoyable and informative.
Visitor Experience
Like the Werribee Open Range Zoo in Victoria, the Dubbo Open Range Zoo has an open-range design that enables animals to roam in large, natural enclosures. This provides a distinctive and immersive experience for visitors. Visitors can explore the Dubbo Zoo on foot, by bicycle, by golf cart, or by driving their car through the expansive grounds, which offer a lot less walking!
A zoo highlight is the African Savannah exhibit, where visitors can observe giraffes, zebras, and antelopes grazing together in a setting reminiscent of the African plains. The zoo also features a sizeable Asian exhibit, home to elephants, tigers, and other species native to the continent. These expansive habitats enhance animal welfare and offer visitors a more authentic and educational experience.
Overnight experiences are available at the Zoofari Lodge and Billabong Camp. These accommodations allow guests to stay within the zoo grounds and enjoy exclusive tours and animal encounters. Staying at the zoo provides a close-up look at the zoo’s inhabitants and operations, fostering a deeper connection to wildlife and conservation.
Encounters and tours
Behind-the-scenes experiences are available, such as an Early Morning Walk with a Zoo volunteer, the safari truck that takes you out to venture amongst African species on the Savannah Safari, or entering into lion territory onboard Lion Pride Lands Patrol. All of these carry a reasonable (but additional) cost. On the day we visited, we took the Pridelands Patrol. For $29, you board a comfortable medium-sized bus and go into the lion’s domains, seeing them up close. The alpha male even put on a roaring show for us!
Impact on Local and Global Scales
Dubbo Open Range Zoo also plays a crucial role in the local community. It is a significant tourist attraction that contributes significantly to the local economy. The zoo draws visitors from all over Australia and beyond, bringing substantial economic benefits to the region. Additionally, it creates job opportunities and engages local businesses through partnerships and procurement.
The zoo’s conservation efforts have a significant impact worldwide. Through its breeding programs and collaborations with international conservation organizations, the Dubbo Open Range Zoo contributes to preserving endangered species and protecting biodiversity. The zoo’s research initiatives, often in partnership with universities and other scientific institutions, advance our understanding of animal behaviour, genetics, and ecology, providing valuable insights for conservation strategies globally.
Challenges and Future Directions
Even though Dubbo Open Range Zoo has been successful, it faces several challenges. The ongoing threat of climate change poses a significant risk to wildlife globally, and the zoo must continuously adapt its strategies to mitigate these impacts. Maintaining genetic diversity within captive populations is complex, requiring careful management and international cooperation.
Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo is located on Obley Road in Dubbo, central west NSW
Tickets: $47.70 Adults, Child (4-15) $27.90, Concession $36.90 (Zoos Victoria members Free)
Situated in the rural heartland of New South Wales, Australia, Altina Wildlife Park is a unique sanctuary that offers a blend of conservation, education, and immersive wildlife experiences.
Historical Background
Altina Wildlife Park was founded in 2004 by Gino and Gloria Altin. The couple’s passion for animals and experiences visiting game reserves and zoos in Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Zambia inspired them to establish the park. It is situated near Darlington Point and covers approximately 207 hectares of land along the banks of the Murrumbidgee River.
Originally intended as a private collection of exotic and native animals, the park later opened its doors to the public. It focuses on wildlife conservation and provides educational opportunities. The park’s distinctive approach to wildlife management and visitor engagement sets it apart from traditional zoos.
Altina Wildlife Park offers safari-style tours. These tours allow visitors to see animals in large, open-range enclosures resembling their natural habitats. This approach improves animal welfare and offers visitors a more immersive and educational experience.
Conservation Efforts
Altina Wildlife Park is dedicated to conservation. The park participates in breeding programs to protect endangered species and preserve genetic diversity. One of the main focuses at Altina is the Scimitar-horned Oryx, which was declared extinct in the wild in the early 2000s. Through its breeding program, Altina has contributed to the international effort to reintroduce these animals into their natural habitats.
Altina is also committed to conserving endangered species such as the African Painted Dog, Maned Wolf, and Przewalski’s Horse. The park collaborates with other zoos and wildlife parks to participate in breeding programs to ensure these species’ survival. In addition to these efforts, Altina also focuses on conserving native Australian wildlife, including the Eastern Grey Kangaroo, Red Kangaroo, and Emu. By showcasing these animals, Altina aims to raise awareness about the threats facing native wildlife and the importance of preserving Australia’s unique biodiversity.
Educational Programs
Education is a crucial part of Altina Wildlife Park’s mission. The park offers various educational programs tailored to engage and inspire visitors of all ages. These programs aim to deepen our understanding of wildlife conservation and our role in protecting the environment.
One educational initiative at Altina is the Junior Keeper Program. The program gives children hands-on experience in animal care and conservation, allowing them to work alongside zookeepers and learn about the park’s daily operations. Participants gain valuable insights into animal behaviour, nutrition, and habitat management, fostering a sense of responsibility and stewardship towards wildlife.
Visitor Experience
Altina Wildlife Park offers visitors a distinctive and immersive experience, setting it apart from traditional zoos. The park provides safari-style tours in custom-built horse-drawn carts or motorised vehicles. This approach allows guests to explore the expansive enclosures and observe animals in a more natural setting, enhancing the visitor experience and minimising animal stress.
One of Altina’s main attractions is seeing rare and exotic animals up close. The park is home to various species, such as lions, tigers, giraffes, and rhinoceroses. The spacious, open-range enclosures allow these animals to roam freely, giving visitors a glimpse into their natural behaviours and social interactions. However, wire fences are still at the front of the larger animal enclosures, and you can’t approach the enclosure to shoot through the wires. It’s a tad difficult if photographing is your main aim.
In addition to the safari tours, Altina offers a variety of animal encounters and behind-the-scenes experiences. Visitors can participate in feeding sessions to hand-feed animals such as giraffes and camels.
Impact on Local and Global Scales
Altina’s conservation efforts have significant global impacts. The park participates in international breeding programs and collaborates with other wildlife organisations to combat species extinction worldwide. The successful breeding and potential reintroduction of species like the Scimitar-horned Oryx demonstrate the positive outcomes of these collaborative conservation efforts. Altina’s educational programs also have a broader impact by raising awareness about conservation issues and inspiring future generations of conservationists.
Challenges and Future Directions
Despite its successes, Altina Wildlife Park faces several challenges. The ongoing threat of climate change poses a significant risk to wildlife globally, and the park must continually adapt its strategies to mitigate these impacts. Maintaining genetic diversity within captive populations is also complex, requiring careful management and international cooperation.
Looking ahead, Altina Wildlife Park is committed to expanding its conservation and education efforts. Plans include developing new exhibits and facilities to enhance the visitor experience and support more extensive breeding programs. The park also aims to increase its focus on in-situ conservation projects, working directly in the field to protect endangered species and their habitats.
Located against the stunning backdrop of Sydney Harbor, the Taronga Zoo is a symbol of wildlife conservation, education, and entertainment. The zoo boasts breathtaking views, an extensive collection of animals, and a dedication to animal welfare. Thus making it a unique experience for locals and tourists.
A Rich History
Taronga Zoo is situated on the north side of Sydney Harbour and covers an area of 69 acres. It was inaugurated on its present site in 1916, and the initial displays included seal ponds, monkey pits, an elephant temple, a top entrance, aviaries, paths, roadways and refreshment rooms. A total of 228 mammals, 552 birds and 64 reptiles were relocated from the old zoo location at Moore Park to Taronga. Some animals, such as the elephants, were transported across the harbour on a flat-top barge.
Throughout the years, the zoo has continuously expanded with new exhibits and facilities. The Giraffe House was completed in 1923 and was soon followed by the Aquarium in 1927 and the Floral Clock in 1928. Tahr Mountain followed in 1932, and the Tiger Pits in 1939. From the 1940s to the 1960s, Edward Hallstrom oversaw the development of various new exhibits, such as habitats for koalas, apes, gorillas the bigger felines.
A new era
In 1967, Taronga underwent a review that led to a shift in its style and operation philosophy. The focus was redirected towards scientific research, conservation, and education. This led to the development of several new exhibits. These included the Platypus and Nocturnal Houses, waterfowl ponds, and the Rainforest Aviary, which allowed visitors to walk through it.
In addition, Taronga built a Veterinary Quarantine Center and an Education Center, both funded by the Department of Education. They also replaced traditional attractions like elephant rides, miniature trains, monkey circuses, and merry-go-rounds with educational facilities like the Friendship Farm and Seal Theatre.
Conservation Efforts
Taronga Zoo is strongly committed to conservation, one of its most significant legacies. The zoo actively participates in various breeding programs for endangered species. This program aims to increase their populations and reintroduce them to their original habitats. The successful breeding of animals such as the Tasmanian Devil and Sumatran Tiger emphasises the crucial role that the zoo plays in protecting the future of these species.
Moreover, the Taronga Conservation Society of Australia collaborates with conservation programs and community groups worldwide to protect wildlife and the environment. This holistic approach emphasises the interconnectedness of all living beings and ecosystems, reinforcing the zoo’s commitment to a sustainable future.
Getting To The Zoo
Option One: Take the ferry from Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo. The ferry will drop you off near the zoo’s bottom entrance, only a short walk away. However, please be aware that the zoo is built on a hill, so your visit to the zoo is all uphill.
Until the Gondola’s closure in February 2023, visitors arriving by ferry could take the Gondola to the top and then walk downhill back to the ferry. Although a new and improved gondola is in the planning stages, it’s not expected to open until 2025.
Option Two: Take the bus. With the Gondola out of action, the best way to see the zoo is to take the bus to the top entrance. Then, working your way downhill past the exhibits, you can exit at the bottom gate and take the ferry back to Circular Quay.
Animals
Taronga Zoo is home to over 5000 animals, representing 350 different species. It is the only zoo in Australia that houses chimpanzees at Taronga Sydney and Taronga Western Plains Zoo.
Taronga Zoo is home to a community of 19 chimpanzees living in a habitat designed to mimic their natural surroundings. The chimpanzees live in a socially stable community made up of six families, each with both male and female members. In September/October 2023, the chimpanzees will be temporarily moved to the orangutan enclosure while their current habitat undergoes redevelopment. During these 18 months, the orangutans will be relocated to newly built accommodations and unavailable for public viewing.
Taronga Zoo is not only a place to see amazing animals. It provides an immersive experience that ignites curiosity and wonder in people of all ages. Seeing these magnificent creatures up close leads to a greater appreciation for the beauty and fragility of our natural world. In addition, Taronga Zoo offers educational programs, behind-the-scenes tours, and interactive exhibits.
Zoo Location and Entry
- Taronga is located at Bradley Head Road, Mosman.
- Open 9.30 am to 4 pm from May to August and 9.30 am to 5 pm from September to April.
- Zoo members can enter for free; Adults are $45.90 each, Concession is $35.10. Children 4-15 yrs are $27 each.
- Family tickets will save you 10% off individual prices.
Note:
If you visit the zoo on your birthday, you can pre-purchase a ticket for $1. You will need to have proof of your birthdate on you when going through the gate.
Taronga’s Zoos are now cashless. Only contactless payments are accepted when purchasing General Admission Zoo tickets and across our retail, food and beverage outlets.
The state of Victoria, located in southeastern Australia, is known for its varied ecosystems and exceptional wildlife. One of its remarkable inhabitants is the Eastern Barred Bandicoot (Perameles gunnii), a small marsupial species believed to have been extinct in mainland Australia since 1991. Recently, however, it has become the first Australian species to have its conservation status revised.
Characteristics and Habitat:
The Eastern Barred Bandicoot is a small, stout marsupial that measures about 30 centimetres in length and weighs roughly one kilogram. Their distinct features include short, round ears and a pointed snout, while their fur colour ranges from sandy brown to grey, with white undersides and pale bars on their hindquarters, giving them their name.
Historically, Eastern Barred Bandicoots inhabited many grassland habitats across southeastern Australia, including Victoria. They primarily occupied the grassy woodlands, tussock grasslands, and open grassy plains that were once abundant in the state. These habitats provided ideal conditions for foraging on insects, spiders, plant tubers, and roots, which comprise most of their diet.
- When they dig for food, they create funnel-shaped holes.
- Under favourable conditions, they can produce up to five litters per year.
- Are pregnant for only 12 days before giving birth
- As omnivores, they have a diverse diet that includes invertebrates, plants, fungi, and fruit.
- On average, they weigh 800g and can measure up to 40cm in length, tail included.
Back from the Brink of Extinction:
Over the past century, the population of Eastern Barred Bandicoots has experienced a dramatic decline due to various factors. Agricultural and urban development activities have caused significant land clearance, which has resulted in damage and fragmentation of their natural habitat. This, in turn, has led to the loss of food sources for the bandicoots. Thus leaving them more susceptible to predators like foxes and feral cats. The number of these creatures dwindled to approximately 150 in a single area near Hamilton until conservation groups and government agencies created the Eastern Barred Bandicoot Recovery Team in 1988.
Conservation Efforts:
Recognising the urgent need to protect this unique species, dedicated conservation efforts have been undertaken in Victoria. Conservation organisations, government agencies, and local communities have collaborated to implement various initiatives to safeguard the Eastern Barred Bandicoot.
The eastern barred bandicoot remains on the endangered species list. However, new populations are thriving after successful breeding and release programs. One of the primary strategies has been the establishment of predator-free enclosures, also known as “safe havens.” These fenced areas protect them from introduced predators such as foxes or feral cats, allowing bandicoot populations to recover and breed in a controlled environment. The enclosures at Skipton and Dunkeld are carefully managed to ensure the bandicoots can access suitable habitats and sufficient resources. It is estimated that around 1,500 bandicoots live at these protected reserves in Victoria.
The third and final release of fifty-six bandicoots occurred on French Island in 2019. With no deaths reported, another eighteen were released.
Bandicoot Bodyguards
The bandicoot trials were planned in 2015, inspired by the success of the Middle Island penguin project depicted in the film “Oddball”. Maremmas were introduced to protect penguins from foxes, and it was hoped that they would also effectively safeguard bandicoots. Significantly, it was found that the bandicoots were not overly concerned by the presence of the dogs.
The challenge was that bandicoots are solitary and only active at night. On the other hand, the Maremma dogs are social animals that seek companionship. To overcome this challenge, a small flock of sheep was brought in as a potential solution. The idea is that the maremmas would focus on the sheep during the day and the bandicoots at night when the sheep are resting, thus meeting the dog’s social needs while protecting the bandicoots.
Currently, the Eastern barred bandicoots can only be found in two specific locations in mainland Australia, both enclosed by predator-proof fences. These sites are the only places where the bandicoots can live outside of captivity. Before this, the bandicoots were only found in the wild on multiple islands, such as Churchill and Phillip, where they were introduced to protect their species from extinction.
Importance of Conservation:
Preserving the Eastern Barred Bandicoot for Victoria’s biodiversity and ecological equilibrium is crucial. Being an endemic species, it serves a significant purpose in sustaining healthy ecosystems by dispersing seeds and regulating insect populations. Additionally, the bandicoot’s existence reflects Victoria’s grassland habitats’ overall health and wellness.
Efforts to conserve the Eastern Barred Bandicoot go beyond just protecting the species itself. These initiatives also play a role in preserving the habitats of other native wildlife and restoring the ecosystem services they provide. The conservation of the bandicoot is closely linked to larger environmental objectives such as preventing species extinction, safeguarding biodiversity, and promoting ecological resilience.