Crocodiles splash down in 'swamp forest', as $62m Auckland Zoo revamp is complete
Wednesday, 19 October 2022
A wall of heat greets those entering Auckland Zoo’s newest exhibit, a steamy 28C to imitate the experience of wandering through a swamp forest – teeming with fish and crocodiles.
The last puzzle piece in the zoo’s South East Asia jungle track is complete, with the addition of a tropical dome to house its new Sunda gharial crocodiles, Malu and Sumpit.
Along with the other sections – such as the high canopy (orangutans and siamans) and the lowlands (Sumatran tigers and Asian small-clawed otters) – the finished dome is the final renovation to the $62 million track.
Sunda gharial crocodiles are rarely seen in the wild as habitat loss, hunting and poaching has seen their population retreat to small pockets in Borneo and Sumatra.
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They’re known for their distinctive snouts, which is how Sumpit – Indonesian for chopsticks – got her name.
The dome itself is a high-tech exhibit, with a transparent cover over its steel ribs providing help to the computer-controller heating, which is working overtime to keep the area warm and humid.
Along with the crocodilians comes new fish species, such as arowana (also known as dragonfish) and more than 100 lush plants to add to the swamp-like atmosphere.
Behind the scenes, a series of water tanks and a network of pipes are controlled by computers to monitor water quality, temperatures and humidity.
The dome is also equipped with a rainfall system that periodically sends water down into the exhibit.
The experience will transport guests to the tropics of South East Asia with the heat, rainfall, sights and sounds, Head of Animal Care and Conservation Richard Gibson said.
“You walk in the doors and your senses are absolutely assailed by a wall of greenery.”
The crocodiles are very specialised for life in the water and have really big, muscular tails, he said.
“It is the biggest development in the zoo’s history”.
The team wanted to combine the very best in modern zoo design with the very best in animal welfare and deliver it in a way that provides the best care for the animals – while letting visitors be a part of it – Gibson said.
While the track itself is complete, the area is still waiting for two young tigers to join the zoo.
They’re expected to arrive before Christmas from the United States.
The project was funded as part of the #FutureZoo renewals programme, as part of Auckland Council’s long-term plan.