Elephants of the Asian Forest
Elephants of Asia Exhibit
It is said to be one of the finest zoos in Europe, housing over 7000 animals in 110 acres of near-natural surrounding and now thanks to a £1.5 million fundraising appeal, nine Asian Elephants at Chester Zoo have had their home rejuvenated.
Elephants of the Asian Forest was officially unveiled on 1st July by broadcaster Philippa Forrester and is designed to educate visitors about the issues facing Asian elephants in the wild. This pioneering exhibit incorporates an Asian theme, with a state of the art breeding facility and native species planting. As well as accommodating the Asian Elephants, it is also home to a number of species including squirrels, tortoises, tree shrews, peafowl and Hornbills.
The Elephant House was awarded a gift aid grant of £44,500 which was the final piece in their private appeal funding package. The monies went towards the meandering pathways around the Elephant House. These innovative trails form the appearance of a dry river bed with footprints of many different animal species.
Mark Pilgrim, Director of Conservation and Education commented: “We have been breeding elephants since 1977 and have what is one of the most successful breeding herds in Europe. This new facility will enable us to continue that work whilst providing continued and excellent care for our existing herd.”
“Elephants of the Asian Forest, however, is not just about our elephants but about spreading the message of the dangers faced by their counterparts in the wild.”
The new impressive exhibit is partly sustainable as the roof will provide improved insulation and increased translucency which will retain heat more efficiently in the winter, reducing the amount of energy used.
