Dudley Zoo is home to two giant anteaters, Lyra and Bubbles, as well as their offspring, Miguel. These anteaters are part of a European Endangered Species Programme (EEP) due to their vulnerable status on the IUCN Red List. The giant anteaters at Dudley Zoo are native to Central and South America, where they inhabit tropical and dry forests, savannas, and open grasslands.
The Giant Anteaters of Dudley Zoo
Adult giant anteaters at Dudley Zoo can reach lengths of 1.8 to 2.2 meters and weigh between 27 and 41 kilograms. They have a lifespan of 14 to 16 years in the wild and are known for their unique features, such as their long tongues, which allow them to consume up to 35,000 ants and termites daily.
Lyra, the Matriarch of Dudley Zoo’s Anteater Family
Lyra is the female giant anteater at Dudley Zoo. She is the matriarch of the anteater family and has been a resident at the zoo for several years. Visitors can learn more about Lyra and adopt her through the zoo’s adoption program.
Bubbles, the Male Giant Anteater
Bubbles is the male giant anteater at Dudley Zoo. He is Lyra’s companion and the father of their offspring, Miguel. Visitors can also adopt Bubbles through the zoo’s adoption program.
Miguel, the Newest Addition to the Anteater Family
Miguel is the offspring of Lyra and Bubbles. He was born at Dudley Zoo and is the newest addition to the anteater family. Miguel’s name was chosen through a Facebook poll, and visitors can learn more about him and adopt him through the zoo’s adoption program.
Dudley Zoo’s Commitment to Conservation
Dudley Zoo is committed to the welfare of its animals and engages in conservation efforts to protect endangered species, including the giant anteaters. By adopting a giant anteater, visitors can contribute to these efforts while learning more about these fascinating creatures.
Adoption Program at Dudley Zoo
Visitors to Dudley Zoo can adopt a giant anteater through the zoo’s adoption program. Adoption packages range from £41.50 for a Silver Adoption to £55.00 for a Gold Adoption, which includes an additional zoo admission ticket and a personalized message displayed outside the adopted animal’s enclosure.
Benefits of Adopting a Giant Anteater
By adopting a giant anteater, visitors can support the zoo’s conservation efforts and learn more about these unique animals. Adoption benefits include admission tickets, personalized messages, and the satisfaction of contributing to the protection of an endangered species.
Visiting Dudley Zoo and Seeing the Giant Anteaters
Dudley Zoo is open to the public, and visitors can see the giant anteaters in their enclosure. The zoo offers various educational resources and activities to help visitors learn more about the anteaters and other animals.
Exploring the Anteater Enclosure
The giant anteaters at Dudley Zoo are housed in a spacious enclosure that mimics their natural habitat. Visitors can observe the anteaters as they forage, rest, and interact with each other.
Educational Resources and Activities
Dudley Zoo provides educational resources and activities to help visitors learn more about the giant anteaters and other animals. These include informative signage, guided tours, and interactive exhibits.
Conclusion
Dudley Zoo is home to a fascinating and endangered species, the giant anteater. Visitors can learn about these unique creatures, support conservation efforts, and even adopt an anteater through the zoo’s adoption program. By visiting Dudley Zoo and engaging with the giant anteaters, visitors can contribute to the protection of this vulnerable species and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
References:
– Dudley Zoo Giant Anteater Video
– Dudley Zoo Giant Anteater Page
– Adopt Lyra the Giant Anteater
– Meet Miguel, the Newest Anteater at Dudley Zoo
– Adopt Bubbles the Giant Anteater