A major new exhibit has opened at West Midland Safari Park.
Costing £500,000 Penguin Cove is the new, fully themed home
to a colony of Humboldt penguins (Spheniscus humboldti) that have
been introduced to the Discovery Trail area of the Park.
The Cove provides the Penguins with a similar habitat to that
found in their native South America, where they nest on islands and
rocky coasts. The exhibit comes complete with nesting areas, a pool
with semi-submerged beach, waterfall, sculptures, Penguin House and
excellent public glass fronted viewing areas to watch the Penguins
as they swim under water. A series of talks by staff and displays
on digital information screens accompany the exhibit. Feeding
opportunities are planned for the future.
Bob Lawrence, Director of Wildlife, said, " This is yet another
major exhibit that has been introduced for 2011. First came the
African Village, followed by the hugely successful "Walking with
Lemurs" and "Meerkat Mayhem". Penguin Cove is the first ever major
exhibit to be opened specifically for this time of the year and one
that fits in nicely with Santa Safari. The Park saw record visitor
numbers last winter - despite the intense cold and snow - which
allowed for some pretty spectacular photo opportunities. Penguin
Cove is the perfect addition to our wild winter season".
Humboldt Penguins are classified as vulnerable in the wild with
a declining population due to over fishing, climate change and
ocean acidification.
West Midland Safari Park and Discovery Trail is open weekends up
to Sunday 5th February 2012 and daily from 26th November to 24th
December 2011. The Park's amusement area and African Village fully
reopens on 11th February 2012.
"Penguin Cove" is included as part of the standard winter
admission charge of £10.99 for adults, £8.99 for
children. A family saver ticket costs £35.96, which admits
two adults and two children. Admission prices also include a free
return ticket. The amusement area, rides and African Village is
closed during the winter.