Chester Zoo is a renowned wildlife park located in Cheshire, England, that is home to a diverse array of animal species. While the zoo no longer houses common hippos, it has celebrated the birth of an endangered pygmy hippo calf, which has become a significant attraction for visitors.

The Pygmy Hippo: A Rare Treasure

The pygmy hippo, native to West Africa, is a critically endangered species with rapidly declining populations due to habitat destruction, farming, human settlements, and hunting for bushmeat. Chester Zoo’s recent birth of a pygmy hippo calf is a remarkable achievement, as the zoo is actively involved in conservation efforts to protect this species.

The newborn calf, born to parents Otto and Gloria, weighed just 11lb 14 oz (5.4kg) at birth and is now on display for the public to admire. This event is a testament to the zoo’s commitment to preserving endangered species and providing a safe haven for these unique creatures.

Accessibility and Visitor Experience

Chester Zoo is known for its vast and expansive grounds, which can make it challenging for visitors to see all the animals in a single day. However, the zoo offers several features to enhance the visitor experience.

Boat Ride through the Islands Expansion

One of the highlights of a visit to Chester Zoo is the free boat ride through the Islands expansion. This immersive experience allows visitors to explore the zoo’s themed areas, which feature stunning landscapes and animal habitats.

Navigating the Zoo

While the modern enclosures at Chester Zoo can sometimes make it difficult to spot the animals, the zoo’s official app and PDF map can help visitors plan their day and locate their favorite animals. Additionally, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the zoo has implemented measures to manage visitor flow, such as one-way sections, ground markings, helpful stewards, and hand wash stations.

Visiting Chester Zoo

Chester Zoo is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with last entry at 4 pm. Ticket prices vary depending on the time of year, ranging from £24.50 to £29.50 for adults and £21.00 to £24.50 for children aged 3-17. Children under 3 enter for free. Parking is available on-site for £6 per day.

Conclusion

Chester Zoo’s commitment to conservation and the well-being of its animals is evident in its efforts to protect the endangered pygmy hippo. While the zoo no longer houses common hippos, the birth of the pygmy hippo calf is a significant achievement that showcases the zoo’s dedication to preserving rare and threatened species. Visitors to Chester Zoo can enjoy the diverse array of animals, the immersive boat ride, and the overall experience of exploring this renowned wildlife park.

References:
– Modern Life is Good – Day Out at Chester Zoo
– Chester Standard – Zoo Celebrates Birth of Endangered Pygmy Hippo Calf
– Chester Zoo – Animals
– Chester Zoo – Prices and Opening Times