Rainforest zoo celebrates birth of endangered species

Staff at Rainforest zoo, Plantasia, are celebrating the birth of two endangered species at their Swansea venue.

In early April a baby Egyptian Tortoise was born, and that was soon followed by a clutch of Edwards Pheasant chicks. Both species are critically endangered in the wild, and the births are a big boost to the fight of zoos against extinction. Both species have largely declined due to habitat destruction and other threats. The Egyptian Tortoise is thought to be extinct in its native country with only a very small number surviving in bordering Libya. The Edwards Pheasants are confirmed to be extinct in the wild with no recorded sightings of the species in their native Vietnam since the year 2000.

Despite the zoo being closed for most of the last 14 months, we have continued to care for the many animals and plant life within. Through the dedication of the team in helping the conservation of species, the new babies are a welcome boost during challenging times.

Michael Colwill, Zoo & Education Manager, said “The new arrivals are doing extremely well and growing stronger every day. The first 6 weeks are critical for their development, and our Keeper team are doing an amazing job in facilitating this. The babies are a big boost to our conservation works, which we have tried to continue during closure, and they highlight the importance of zoos helping the survival of many species across the World”

Whilst the new borns are developing they may not be on show to the public 100% of the time when Plantasia reopens on Monday 17th May, but there will be lots of other new animals for guests to meet. During closure the Swansea zoo has helped save and rehome a number of species including a Green Iguana, a baby Chameleon, a colony of 5000 Leaf Cutter Ants, and a Goliath Bird Eating Tarantula. On reopening Plantasia will also become the only location in Wales to offer the amazing experience of feeding crocodiles.

Anthony Williams, General Manager, added “We are so looking forward to welcoming back guests later this month. Every visit helps the care of our animals, like our new babies, and helps protect animals across the UK and the World”.