Chester Zoo’s Grasslands habitat is a significant development that will recreate a huge African savannah, bringing together various African habitats from bush land wildlife to rich plains. The centrepiece of this habitat is a large, open savannah that will be home to multiple rare and endangered species, including Rothschild’s giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, ostrich, and antelope, all living alongside one another.

The Grasslands Habitat

The Grasslands project is expected to inspire a nation of conservationists by connecting people to nature like never before through close-up experiences with species, including cranes, vultures, aardvarks, and warthogs. The plans also include the option for the zoo to develop discreet, overnight accommodation, comprising of 42 rooms, including traditional African-themed lodges, which will enable guests to wake up to a sunrise over Grasslands.

The new habitat will be bordered by the zoo’s existing Tsavo reserve area for critically endangered Eastern black rhino and rare African painted dogs. It is the latest phase in the zoo’s strategic development plan, creating ever more natural habitats for threatened species, divided into themed geographical regions.

Unique Features of Chester Zoo’s Grasslands

1. Large Open Savannah: The centerpiece of the Grasslands habitat is a vast, open savannah that will be home to a diverse array of African species, including Rothschild’s giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, ostrich, and various antelope species.

2. Variety of Grassland Creatures: Visitors will also encounter some of the world’s smallest grassland creatures, such as naked mole rats, in a specially designed indoor habitat.

3. Conservation Efforts: The Grasslands project is part of Chester Zoo’s commitment to conservation, with the aim of inspiring visitors to become conservationists and support the protection of these endangered species in their natural habitats.

4. Overnight Accommodation: The plans for the Grasslands include the option for the zoo to develop discreet, overnight accommodation, comprising of 42 rooms, including traditional African-themed lodges, which will enable guests to wake up to a sunrise over the Grasslands.

5. Connectivity with Existing Habitats: The new Grasslands habitat will be bordered by the zoo’s existing Tsavo reserve area for critically endangered Eastern black rhino and rare African painted dogs, creating a seamless and interconnected experience for visitors.

The Impact of Chester Zoo’s Grasslands

The Grasslands project is part of Chester Zoo’s 217-acre Natural Vision Masterplan, which includes the £40m Islands development opened in 2016. The project is expected to open to the public in spring 2025, following a green loan from Santander.

Chester Zoo is a not-for-profit organization, and all income is spent on the zoo itself and conservation efforts around the world to support and help animals in their natural habitats. The Grasslands habitat is a significant step in the zoo’s mission to inspire a new generation of conservationists and protect endangered species.

Visitor Experience at Chester Zoo’s Grasslands

Visitors to the Chester Zoo’s Grasslands will be able to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and smells of the African savannah. They will have the opportunity to observe the various species in their natural habitats, including the majestic Rothschild’s giraffe, the striking Grevy’s zebra, and the graceful antelope.

The indoor habitat for the naked mole rats will provide a unique and fascinating glimpse into the lives of these remarkable creatures, which are adapted to thrive in the harsh conditions of the grasslands.

For those who wish to extend their stay, the option of the traditional African-themed lodges will offer a truly immersive experience, allowing visitors to wake up to the sunrise over the Grasslands and experience the wildlife in a more intimate setting.

Conclusion

Chester Zoo’s Grasslands habitat is a remarkable development that will bring the wonders of the African savannah to the heart of the UK. By creating a natural and interconnected habitat for a diverse array of endangered species, the zoo is not only providing an exceptional visitor experience but also playing a vital role in conservation efforts around the world.

As a not-for-profit organization, Chester Zoo’s commitment to using its income to support the zoo and its conservation work is commendable. The Grasslands project is a testament to the zoo’s dedication to inspiring a new generation of conservationists and protecting the natural world.

References:
– Chester Zoo’s Grasslands Habitat
– Funding Supports Multi-Million Pound Chester Zoo Grasslands
– Chester Zoo Safari Lodges Approved