Do they still have an otter? I ask because I noticed the other day ZTL list North American River Otter as a former holding now
From Facebook today "With a very heavy heart we are sorry to have to share with you our most recent news. Marley our very gentle lovable male puma has had to be put to sleep. He was found to be suffering with testicular cancer and this had spread to his spine. The tumour was inoperable. So in his best interest, the very sad decision was made. He was such a gentleman and we at Amazona will never forget him." Was there 2 Pumas, as I only saw 1 at the weekend?
Visited this place for the first time yesterday. I always enjoy and appreciate any zoo visit, but I have to say that I found Amazona pretty hard work: a really unimaginative collection and - mostly - wholly unspectacular exhibits. When one thinks of all of the interesting South American species that might be displayed here, it’s disappointing to see what are, essentially, the same old animals here: Brown Coati, Brazilian Tapir, the most commonly-seen primates.... A Tayra, Grison or Oncilla would certainly improve things! And those enclosures which look to be made of curved expanses of wire mesh, and not much else! Very nice free-ranging Mara, though...
Totally agree with your comments @sooty mangabey ,the place has the potential to be a new take on Kilverstone but there doesn't seem to be any drive or ambition to bring in anything exciting. I mean come on, giant otters seem to be popping up every where, and there are a lot of interesting S.American primate species that could be sourced quite easily! Very frustrating, a sense of apathy hangs over the place. Also, are the cages still of a temporary design because of the land issues? When I was there (close to 10 years now ) the cages had to be easily removable because the owners didn't have the land, it was leased!
Pumas are far from common in UK zoos these days, and it looks like they still have at least one. Admittedly, I've not not been to this place, but it's on my list. Hope they have some decent birds.
Much depends on what species of parrots, waterfowl & waders. I imagine the flamingos would be Chilean?
It is strange that Puma, a once common species can currently only be seen in only 4 public collections in the UK, whilst Jaguarundi, which about 5 years ago only had one ( Hamerton , possibly RSCC too though can't remember whether it was closed or re-opened at that point) now has 6 holders!
I'm pretty sure Cotswold had jaguarundi back then as well, possibly on loan from the RSCC. Kept in the walled garden if I remember correctly.
I think they had left Cotswold by 2013. My first visit there was 2014 ( I think ) and there were no Jaguarundi then.
You could well be right @pipaluk as I last remember them in 2012, don't think I visited in 2013 so wouldn't be able to say exactly when they left.
The entire zoo (cafe and child's soft play area still open) will be closed for maintenance from tomorrow (7th January) until 16th February.
