Some bird movements: The Secretary birds have disappeared and been replaced by two white storks, presumably ciconia ciconia, although I'm no expert. They don't look like the Oriental white stork, which I know are thin on the ground. Photos in the gallery. The 'Duiker enclosure' now contains two black crowned cranes. Darwin's rhea have returned to their enclosure opposite the maned wolves - one has anyway, that was all I saw. It does look as though the zoo is filling some of the empty enclosures in preparation for Easter.
Visit today: There are now two emus in the former lechwe field. The individual who shares with the kangaroos is still there. A new roof is going up on the Cottage Aviary. Signs of the Savannah? A digger was at work in the meerkat enclosure, the fence that divided the anoa field has been taken down and a circular one has been erected in the Sea of Mud that was the main badger area. Male giraffe, Yoda, has been reunited with the herd after receiving a successful contraceptive injection. There are now only two Red River hogs - two have died. As I noted in the Gallery, the bongos are off show due to 'unforeseen circumstances'. The 2015/16 Annual Review is now on the zoo's website. I don't know how long it's been available as I've only just noticed.
More about the TB problems from the local Herald Express: Devon zoo open as usual as staff face TB challenge
Giraffe house closed today? Some kind of terrapin species in the long tank in the Tropical house? Bul-bul removed from area between tropical and desert houses. No new developments on the meerkat, Takin, Tapir or cusimanse front? Maybe Savannah development will start after Easter and cease before summer hols?
I am visiting Paignton the week after next for only the second time. Aside from camping out at the echidna enclosure until I see him, does anyone have any tips / suggestions / things not to miss?
Look for Bruce the echidna in the afternoon - I don't think he does mornings. You will find that the Amphibian Ark repays a second visit, because you will be very lucky to see the majority of the dart frogs on a single visit. Most of the other animals are quite easy to see, but note the times of the talks: the gorilla talk at 2.30 is the best opportunity to see the gorillas doing something, because they are fed a few treats at that time. Final point, don't miss the corners - the renovated Reptile Nursery (which actually isn't a nursery any longer) and the Tur and Barbary sheep enclosure are among the zoo's best exhibits.
I am at this very moment camped out at the echidna enclosure. Have done enough wandering but there are too many crowds. So will be here for the duration until I see him!
Well that was worth the wait. I have now filled my camera memory card with photos and videos, taken a million more on my phone and Bruce is still happily trotting about - I am delighted!
Good things come to those who wait and all that! I’ve very rarely ever left a zoo not having seen what I came to see. Patience is absolutely the key!
