Explore these new animal habitats as part of your expedition through six South East Asian islands and get closer to some of the most unique and endangered animals on Earth.
In 2015 we opened the largest zoological development in the UK, bringing our visitors closer to some of the incredible wildlife that can be found in South East Asia and highlight the conservation work our experts are doing to protect it. The developments continue the ‘always building’ philosophy of our founder, George Mottershead, who created the UK’s first zoo without bars and focused on animal wellbeing and conservation.
So what’s new in Islands?
Beyond the tigers and before the Monsoon Forest, you’ll find a new area of the zoo waiting to be discovered. The two sun bears, Milli and Toni, who were rescued from Cambodia after their mothers were killed by poachers and they were found as mistreated pets, are one of the species in the new area. Their new home features lush trees for the bears to climb and forage for food, a stream and state-of-the-art cubbing dens. Make your way through the sun bear tunnel where there are a number of viewing points providing many opportunities to catch a glimpse of this cute pair.
You’ll be able to get closer to some of the world’s most endangered songbird species as you walk through the new stunning aviary. Take in the beautiful bird song, learn more about why these birds are on the edge of extinction and the conservation work we’re doing right here and in Indonesia to save them!
Post from RICOH THETA. – Spherical Image – RICOH THETA
Look out for the Asian fairy bluebird, Sumatran laughingthrush and the critically endangered Javan green-magpie – all being pushed closer to extinction as a result of the illegal wildlife trade.
It’s the first time the Javan green magpie has gone on display to the public anywhere in the world! This bird is so precious – it’s close to extinction in the wild. That’s why, in 2015, we brought six pairs into our conservation breeding programme in a last bid to save them from extinction, by establishing a vital insurance population.
There’s also an impressive Malayan tapir exhibit, which is thought to be one of the world’s largest! It features both an outdoor and indoor pool, offering stunning viewing opportunities for you to enjoy a completely unique perspective of the animals.
Explore the habitats of Panay, Papua, Bali, Sumba, Sumatra and Sulawesi here >