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Zoos in South Wales

Discussion in 'United Kingdom' started by eddielargefc, 12 Mar 2012.

  1. eddielargefc

    eddielargefc Active Member

    Joined:
    20 Feb 2012
    Posts:
    41
    Location:
    Stevenage
    This weekend my son and I visited three very different animal collections in South Wales.

    Manor House Wildlife Park has a small collection of animals but in a very attractive setting. A lot of effort has clearly gone into enclosure design and the zoo also scores highly on educational and entertaining signs. The highlight for us were the two Siamang Gibbons, called Steve and Lisa. NB although the Rhino enclousre is close to completion the rhino is not there yet.

    Folly Farm has a larger collection of animals but also has avery large indoor fairground and it made parts of the zoo feel a little disconnected. There were a few highlights;
    Two very active Fossas
    One very active Ocelot (another was sleeping)
    The only Giraffes in Wales
    Six banded Armadillos
    The biggest disappointment was not seeing their Virgina Opossum.

    Wales Ape and Monkey Sanctuary near Caehopkin is a place that tugs at many emotions. Many of the animals have been rescued from neglectful owners or collections and some of the back stories can make you both sad and angry. As the name suggests the collections has chimps, gibbons, baboons and many smaller monkeys. It also has wolves, pygmy goats and a capybara. Its remote setting means it is very reliant on donations.