Colchester zoo connects visitors to wild nature

[The Patriot]

Colchester zoo connects visitors to wild nature

07-28-2010 02:34 AM

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Wed, 2010-07-28 10:19


Colchester zoo connects visitors to wild nature


Heather Joy


feature_story_photo:
Heather Joy






Colchester zoo connects visitors to wild nature

Heather Joy

When you look at the flat quaint countryside of East Anglia, it’s hard to imagine that tucked away near the coast among 60 acres of parkland is a whole other world where the Amazon Rainforest
meets the Arctic.
With over 250 different species, there really is something for everyone to call their favorite. In the Aquatic Zone, visitors can watch the penguins play, see squirrel monkeys’ feed and watch
the sea lions show off their exercise routine.
The zoo is celebrating two new additions: a pair of young Cuban crocodiles and the new Orangutan Forest. Be sure to meet Rajang, the zoo’s male orangutan, and his keepers when in the
area.
The most crowded event in the Aquatic Zone is the meerkat feeding where these South African natives partake in lunch while adopting an upright pose for the anxious visitor’s camera. Make your way across the rope bridges suspended above the Lemur Islands to see the playful Madagascar natives before heading further into the Valley Zone. Visit with Sasha, the zoo’s only white tiger and her neighbors, Subu and Leoni, a couple of African lions.
Stop by the Lakelands Zone to meet some feathered friends from around the world and watch them in flight at the birds of prey display in the main arena. After you stop and admire the flamingos and almatian pelicans, make your way to the heart of Africa.
The impressive spirit of the Africa enclosure is definitely a highlight. The unique enclosure allows visitors to get up close with the zoo’s five African elephants. At first glance the line to feed the elephants may appear daunting however, the line moves quickly. In the kingdom of the wild, visit the giraffes, rhinos, cranes and zebras.
In the Heights Zone, be sure to visit Anoushka and Igor, the zoo’s rare Amur tigers, which are one of the most endangered species of tiger according to the zoo’s information plaque. If your feet need a break, catch the Tanganyika Road Train to see more of the zoo’s critters or take a respite at one of the zoo’s many picnic areas.
The budding zoologist in the family can be a zookeeper for a day. This means an opportunity to tend to a variety of animals while learning more about their feeding, sleeping and playing habits.
With its generous selection of demonstrations, lectures, public feedings and children’s activities, Colchester Zoo has plenty to offer visitors all year round.

Colchester Zoo is open every day (except Christmas and
Boxing Day) at 9:30 a.m. The zoo closes at 6 p.m. until
Sept. 30 and at 5 p.m. from Oct. through March. Last admission
is one hour prior to closing.
Adults: £13.99 – £16.99 Children: £7.50 – £9.99
Free admission: children three years old and younger
Groups of 15 or more receive discount rates
For more information, visit www.colchester-zoo.com or call
01206-331292.










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