The African Wild Dogs at Melbourne Zoo have moved into their newly renovated home following the completion of a major extension.
The recently completed project is the first stage of the new Leopard Ridge development, a $9m project funded by the Andrews Labor Government, which is due to open in December 2017.
Leopard Ridge will expand on the predators theme started by Lion Gorge, which in addition to lions features the African Wild Dogs and the endangered Philippines Crocodile.
Leopard Ridge will also provide spectacular new exhibits for Snow Leopards and a Sumatran Tiger, plus Coatis and Tasmanian Devils.
Victorian Budget 2017/18 included $5.8 million to continue the ‘Kids Free’ policy for zoos.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“Victorians have recently voted the Zoo to be the most popular city tourist attraction for the second year in a row and this redevelopment will make it even better.”
“Leopard Ridge will provide Zoos Victoria with another fantastic tool to engage with the community on the importance of conservation.”
“Melbourne Zoo dates back to 1862, making it Australia’s first Zoo, so updating older exhibits is vital to ensuring that it continues to provide world-leading animal care.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020