The Dudley Zoo Monkey Experience is a unique opportunity for visitors to get up close and personal with a variety of primates, including Spider monkeys, Lemurs, and Chimpanzees. This interactive experience allows participants to feed, groom, and even go behind the scenes with these fascinating creatures, all while supporting the zoo’s vital conservation efforts.
What is the Dudley Zoo Monkey Experience?
The Dudley Zoo Monkey Experience is a series of close encounter programs offered by the Dudley Zoo and Castle in the West Midlands, England. These experiences are designed to provide visitors with a unique and immersive encounter with the zoo’s primate residents, including:
- Meet the Spider Monkeys: A 20-30 minute experience where visitors can feed, groom, and interact with the zoo’s troop of Spider monkeys.
- Meet the Lemurs: A similar experience where visitors can get up close with the zoo’s Lemur population.
- Meet the Chimps: An opportunity to observe and potentially interact with the zoo’s Chimpanzee troop.
These close encounter experiences are available for two people at a time and are suitable for ages 12 and up. Participants must complete a health and safety checklist on the day of the experience, and any child participants aged 8-15 must be accompanied by an adult.
Pricing and Availability
The Dudley Zoo Monkey Experience is priced at £110 for two people. This includes:
- Access to the designated primate enclosure
- Feeding, grooming, or behind-the-scenes activities
- An experienced keeper to provide information and guidance
- Admission to the Dudley Zoo and Castle
The Meet the Spider Monkeys experience is available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10:30 am and 2:05 pm. However, it is important to note that the experiences are not available on weekends.
Other Close Encounter Experiences
In addition to the Monkey Experience, the Dudley Zoo and Castle offers several other Close Encounter experiences, including:
| Experience | Price (for 2 people) |
|---|---|
| Feed the Giraffes | £110 |
| Feed the Sea Lions | £110 |
| Tickle a Tapir | £110 |
| Meet the Lemurs | £110 |
| Feed the Penguins | £110 |
| Meet the Chimps | £110 |
| Feed a Big Cat | £110 |
| Meet the Orangutans | £110 |
The availability and pricing for these experiences may vary, so it’s important to check the Dudley Zoo website for the most up-to-date information.
Visitor Reviews and Feedback
The Dudley Zoo and Castle has received mixed reviews on TripAdvisor, with some visitors praising the Close Encounter experiences and others criticizing the zoo’s facilities and animal welfare standards. However, it’s important to note that the zoo is actively working to improve its conservation programs and animal welfare practices.
One reviewer, for example, wrote: “The close encounter with the spider monkeys was an amazing experience. The keepers were knowledgeable and passionate about the animals, and we were able to get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures.”
Another reviewer, however, expressed concerns about the zoo’s overall condition, stating: “The zoo facilities were quite dated and in need of some maintenance. While the animal welfare seemed adequate, there were some areas that could use improvement.”
Conclusion
The Dudley Zoo Monkey Experience is a unique and exciting opportunity for visitors to get up close and personal with a variety of primates, including Spider monkeys, Lemurs, and Chimpanzees. With prices starting at £110 for two people, this experience makes a fantastic gift for any occasion and supports the zoo’s vital conservation efforts.
Whether you’re a seasoned zoo enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and memorable experience, the Dudley Zoo Monkey Experience is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to check the availability and book your spot in advance to avoid disappointment.
References:
– Dudley Zoo Experiences
– Dudley Zoo Animal Experiences
– Feed the Spider Monkeys