Chester Zoo’s Monsoon Forest is a must-visit destination for zoo touring enthusiasts, particularly those with a keen interest in crocodiles. The zoo is home to the critically endangered Sunda gharial crocodiles, a unique species that cannot be found anywhere else in the UK. These fascinating creatures are part of a conservation program at the zoo, which is dedicated to preventing their extinction.
The Sunda Gharial Crocodiles at Chester Zoo
The Sunda gharial is a unique species of crocodile, characterized by its long, thin snout, which it uses to catch fish in its natural habitat in South East Asia. At Chester Zoo, visitors can observe these crocodiles during feeding time, which is a truly unforgettable experience. However, keepers at the zoo have reported difficulties in encouraging the crocodiles to eat, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts to protect these animals in the wild.
Feeding Time at Monsoon Forest
Visitors to Chester Zoo’s Monsoon Forest can witness the feeding of the Sunda gharial crocodiles, a truly captivating experience. The keepers carefully prepare the crocodiles’ meals, which typically consist of fish, and then carefully introduce the food into the enclosure. The crocodiles’ unique hunting behavior, as they use their long, slender snouts to catch their prey, is a sight to behold.
Conservation Efforts at Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is dedicated to the conservation of the Sunda gharial crocodile, a critically endangered species. The zoo’s conservation program aims to protect these animals in the wild and support breeding efforts to ensure the survival of the species. Visitors can learn more about the zoo’s conservation efforts through educational resources and by speaking with the knowledgeable staff.
The Monsoon Forest Exhibit
In addition to the Sunda gharial, Monsoon Forest is home to over 2,600 new plants and trees, creating a lush, tropical environment that transports visitors to South East Asia. The zoo’s “Islands” project, which includes Monsoon Forest, was designed by dan pearlman, who was responsible for the architecture, landscape, and animal habitats, as well as the boat trip that takes visitors through the exhibit.
Immersive Experience
Visiting Monsoon Forest is an immersive experience, with its own weather system that can create rain and reach temperatures of 27C (81F) to replicate the climate of South East Asia. The exhibit also features a range of other animals, including rhinoceros hornbills, tentacled snakes, and a family of Sumatran orangutans.
Educational Resources
For those interested in learning more about the Sunda gharial, Chester Zoo offers a range of educational resources, including an animal fact file that provides interesting facts about the species. This resource can be used in the classroom to support science and geography curriculum links.
Conclusion
In summary, Chester Zoo’s Monsoon Forest is a must-visit for zoo touring enthusiasts, particularly those interested in crocodiles. The Sunda gharial is a unique and fascinating species, and Chester Zoo is dedicated to their conservation. The Monsoon Forest exhibit is a truly immersive experience, transporting visitors to South East Asia and offering a range of other animals to observe. The zoo’s educational resources also provide an excellent opportunity to learn more about the Sunda gharial and support curriculum links in the classroom.
References:
– Chester Zoo (2015). Monsoon Forest opens | Chester Zoo. Available at: https://www.chesterzoo.org/news/monsoon-forest-opens/
– Blooloop (2020). Chester Zoo rebuilds and reopens the improved Monsoon Forest. Available at: https://blooloop.com/animals/news/chester-zoo-monsoon-forest/
– Chester Zoo (2021). LIVE VIRTUAL ZOO DAY: Sunda gharial crocodiles feeding time!. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GfQhi08cpCM
– Chester Zoo (2022). Feeding the Crocodiles | The Secret Life of the Zoo | Nature Bites. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eot_GM3k07c
– Chester Zoo (n.d.). ANIMAL FACT FILE – Sunda Gharial – Schools – Chester Zoo. Available at: https://www.chesterzoo.org/schools/resources/animal-fact-file-sunda-gharial/