Chester Zoo offers an immersive shark experience called “Planet Shark: Predator or Prey”. This exhibit provides visitors with an up-close look at the fascinating world of sharks, featuring life-sized models, real teeth and jaws, and rare fossils dating back millions of years.
Exhibit Details
The “Planet Shark” exhibit at Chester Zoo is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about these incredible marine creatures. The exhibit features a large, immersive gallery with underwater projections, showcasing stunning footage of sharks in their natural habitats. Visitors can explore life-size shark models, touch real teeth and jaws, and even see rare fossils that are up to 370 million years old.
Interactive Elements
The exhibit also includes interactive platforms where visitors can cycle through an extensive database of shark species, learning about their unique characteristics, behaviors, and importance to the ecosystem. Zoo educators are on hand to answer any questions visitors may have about sharks, the ocean, or the wider zoo.
Quiet Hour
For visitors who may find loud sounds and strong lights challenging, Chester Zoo offers a “Quiet Hour” every Sunday from 10-11am until October 31st. During this time, the audio is turned down, and the floor projections are turned off, creating a more peaceful and inclusive experience.
Timings and Rates
The “Planet Shark” exhibit is open 7 days a week, from 9:30am until the zoo’s closing time, including weekends and school holidays. All participants must have a ticket for the zoo or a valid membership card, and tickets for the exhibit must be purchased at the VR theatre after admission lanes. Anyone under 13 years of age must be accompanied by an adult or guardian, and there are height and weight restrictions in place.
Virtual Reality Experience
In addition to the physical exhibit, Chester Zoo also offers a virtual reality experience called “Shark Dive”. This 360-degree visual experience includes a motion seat, immersive VR headset, and captivating audio, allowing visitors to feel as though they are diving with sharks. The experience lasts for approximately 7 minutes and is not recommended for guests who suffer from photosensitive epilepsy, have back and neck problems, or are pregnant. Tickets for the VR experience must be purchased via card.
Shark Species at Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is home to a variety of shark species, including:
| Shark Species | Description |
|---|---|
| Blacktip Reef Shark | A small, slender shark found in tropical waters around the world. They are known for their distinctive black-tipped fins. |
| Zebra Shark | A slow-moving, bottom-dwelling shark with a distinctive spotted pattern. They are found in the Indo-Pacific region. |
| Nurse Shark | A large, slow-moving shark that is often found resting on the seafloor. They are known for their friendly, docile nature. |
| Hammerhead Shark | A unique shark species with a distinctive hammer-shaped head. They are found in warm, coastal waters around the world. |
These are just a few of the fascinating shark species that visitors can learn about at the “Planet Shark” exhibit at Chester Zoo.
Conclusion
The “Planet Shark” exhibit at Chester Zoo is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about these incredible marine creatures. With life-sized models, real teeth and jaws, and rare fossils, the exhibit provides a unique and immersive experience that challenges the perception of sharks as mere monsters of the deep. Whether you’re a seasoned shark enthusiast or simply curious about these fascinating animals, the “Planet Shark” exhibit is sure to leave a lasting impression.