Appeal donations help fund Tassie devil display at Monarto Zoo, SA
Published: 30/05/2012
With thanks to funding
Monarto Zoo received from the Tasmanian Devil Management Project Grant as part of the Save the Tasmanian Devil Program Appeal, this South Australian zoo has been able to publicly display Tasmanian devils for the first time.
Sarah Washford, Senior Keeper, Native Fauna Monarto Zoo, explains more about this new enclosure:
"Nestled behind the scenes at Monarto Zoo in South Australia, lies a facility specifically designed for the breeding of various endangered native animals; and it is here that one will find a most unique creature, the Tasmanian devil. Since 2006, Monarto has been a part of the insurance population for this distinctive species, and has contributed annually with successful breeding and holding. It is only recently however, that we have been able to tell the public this story, and educate them on the importance of this national program.
"Not only has the funding provided extra holding space in the form of an exhibit, but we will also be adding another three larger holding pens to our ‘off-limit’ facility at the end of the year (so watch this space!!).
"Our Tasmanian devil exhibit was completed at the start of May this year, and is currently home to a single male “Lucifer”, who has been settling in well over the past few weeks. It is approximately 270 metres and is L shaped in appearance. It is located at our pavilion function area and has views from ground level, as well as from the deck area. We have been able to incorporate established vegetation as well as providing natural climbing furniture for aspect, pond sites, various denning areas and the addition of lock-away dens. It was built using colourbond fencing and glass panels attached to a cement plimpth and wire skirting. It provides visitors with open viewing areas, while allowing animals to “hide” and feel secure while on display.
"This exhibit has been a welcome addition to Monarto Zoo. It not only provides visitors the chance to view Tasmanian devils up close, but also the chance to attend a public keeper talk to learn more about the species and the important work we all do to ensure their existence. So on behalf of the Monarto team, many thanks again to those involved in funding, because as we all know, education is vital!"
