Dreamworld today confirmed rumors that the themepark is undergoing major construction work to create a brand new interactive enclosure that is capable of displaying various exotic animals and is due to open in time for April school holidays.The first animals to be featured on display will be two rare white lions to be temporarily relocated to the Gold Coast themepark from their permanent home at Canberra’s National Zoo and Aquarium.
With just a handful in captivity around the world, this will be the first chance for many South East Queensland locals and visitors to view this breed of big cat in such authentic surroundings and at so close a range.
Spotted for the first time in the 1930’s in the Timbavati region of South Africa it wasn’t until the 1970’s that the White Lion was rediscovered with the first breeds occurring in the 1980’s at Johannesburg Zoo.
The three year old brother and sister duo named Jake and Mischka will inhabit the new 334m² enclosure where visitors will be able to observe their natural behavior and Dreamworld’s General Manager Life Sciences, Al Mucci, explains that this playful pair will provide plenty of enjoyment for observers.
“These white lions are still in an adolescent stage and as such are really playful and active. They’re both big cats with Jake weighing in at over 200kgs, so guests will really be able to see the sheer power as they play with each other and adapt to their temporary surroundings.”
The new exhibit is to be purpose built to suit a range of animals and future plans for the themepark will offer locals and visitors the chance to observe different species at various times of the year.
“White lions will be the first exotic animal we introduce to the new enclosure and we are looking into other exotic carnivores that have never before been displayed on the Gold Coast,” said Mr Mucci.
The new enclosure will be located near the entrance to Tiger Island and will feature many interactive elements where guests will be able to walk alongside the displayed animal while remaining safely behind the facilities purpose engineered, triple laminated toughened glass.
The new exhibit will be ready in time for April school holidays and Dreamworld is keeping a few secrets up its sleeve, with the promise to really amaze visitors.
“There are a few elements we are still working on and we will have further news in the coming weeks. We know our guests will be really excited about this new facility,” said Mr Mucci.
Press Release Link | Image Link
No comments:
Post a Comment