Chessington News 2011, Zoo keepers at Chessington World of Adventures Resort were welcomed by the fresh smell of popcorn when they returned to work on 4th March to find three baby Binturong or (Bearcats). The friendly animals are well known for having a natural smell almost identical to that of movie popcorn. Resident binturong Jalita and Awan have successfully bred at Chessington in the past but this is the first time for a litter of three. At the end of 2010 Chessington Zoo was recognised for their success in breeding binturong with a BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquaria) commendation and as a vulnerable species in the wild further breeding in 2011 is a fantastic achievement for the species. John Merrington head mammal keeper said: “Binturong are fantastic animals to work with, incredible friendly and sociable, in fact one of our female binturong loves people so much she will often take part in the daily shows. The continued breeding of these animals is an important part of the European stud book programme and we are delighted to welcome these new additions who can be seen out and about in their home in Trail of the Kings very soon”.
The zoo has been entrusted with rearing 200 wild caught endangered baby fen raft spiders. They will be looked after by head of reptiles and birds Keith Russell and assisted by Leanne Thompson until October, when they will be released. Chessington Zoo entrusted with endangered spiders for conservation (From Surrey Comet)
it's a place I've never been - I've always viewed it as a theme park rather than a zoo - is it worth a visit then?