Melbourne Zoo, established in 1862, is the oldest zoo in Australia and one of the most visited attractions in Melbourne. Located in the beautiful Royal Park in Parkville, the zoo covers 55 acres and is home to over 320 animal species from Australia and around the world. A walk through Melbourne Zoo is not just a chance to see exotic animals, but also an opportunity to experience a variety of ecosystems and learn about conservation efforts.
The zoo is well-organized, with distinct zones dedicated to different types of habitats and regions. One of the first areas visitors often encounter is the Australian Bush, which showcases native Australian animals in naturalistic settings. Here, you can observe kangaroos, emus, and koalas up close. The design allows visitors to feel as though they are walking through an authentic Australian landscape, with red soil, eucalyptus trees, and open spaces.
Next, the Trail of the Elephants is a highlight for many. This area replicates the lush forests of South East Asia and provides a spacious home for the zoo’s Asian elephants. Visitors can learn about the habits and conservation status of these majestic creatures, and if lucky, witness one of their daily enrichment activities or feedings. The setting is designed to resemble an Asian village, complete with traditional structures and informative displays about elephant conservation.
The Orangutan Sanctuary is another must-see. This impressive exhibit allows visitors to view orangutans in a forest canopy, reflecting their natural habitat in the rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra. Elevated boardwalks provide a unique perspective, enabling guests to watch these intelligent primates swing and climb through the trees. The sanctuary also emphasizes the critical need to protect orangutans’ natural habitats, threatened by deforestation and palm oil plantations.
One of the zoo’s most enchanting areas is the Butterfly House. Stepping into this exhibit feels like entering a tropical paradise, with hundreds of butterflies fluttering freely among lush plants and flowers. The controlled environment is warm and humid, mimicking the butterflies’ native habitats. Informational signs and staff are available to teach visitors about the life cycle and ecological importance of butterflies.
The Gorilla Rainforest offers an immersive experience of an African jungle. This exhibit is home to a troop of western lowland gorillas and is designed to educate visitors about the challenges these animals face in the wild, such as habitat loss and poaching. The lush, densely planted enclosure includes viewing areas where guests can observe gorillas interacting, playing, and foraging.
For a glimpse of aquatic life, the Wild Sea exhibit presents an impressive collection of marine animals, including seals, penguins, and other coastal species. The large underwater viewing windows allow visitors to watch seals swim gracefully, while the penguin exhibit replicates the rocky shores of the sub-Antarctic islands.
Melbourne Zoo is not only about viewing animals but also about education and conservation. Throughout the zoo, there are numerous interactive displays, keeper talks, and feeding sessions designed to engage visitors and raise awareness about wildlife conservation. The zoo actively participates in breeding programs for endangered species and works with international conservation organizations to protect animals in the wild.
A walk through Melbourne Zoo is a journey through the world’s diverse ecosystems, offering a chance to see incredible animals, learn about their habitats, and understand the importance of conservation efforts. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, a day at Melbourne Zoo is both an educational and inspiring experience.
17 май 2024
