Reptiles at Werribee Open Range Zoo now have access to a heated pool, water feature and a climbing wall in a newly renovated enrichment space.
Named The Snake Exploratorium, the upgraded area has been likened to luxury five-star accommodation for the resident boas, shingleback lizards and blue tongue lizards.
Zoo keeper Maddy Jamieson hopes the upgrades will emulate an environment similar to what the animals might experience in the wild.
“With the additional space, we’re able to offer them a greater variety of substrates, water elements and furniture to enhance the environment,” Ms Jamieson said.
“It sustains a temperature range between 20°C and 36°C, and high humidity which are optimal conditions for these ectothermic species that rely on environmental conditions to maintain their body temperature.”
Decorated with Ostrich eggs, American bison fur and log hollows, the interior design was carefully chosen to replicate different sensory stimuli such as scents and textures.
The Snake Exploratorium was funded through Zoos Victoria’s Willy Wonka program, an initiative that encourages staff to create unique animal enrichment activities for resident animals.
Zoo members and visitors to Werribee Open Range Zoo can find The Snake Exploratorium outside the Ranger Kids centre.
Werribee Open Range Zoo visitors and Zoos Victoria members are reminded that all tickets must be pre-booked online
at zoo.org.au and all ticketholders 18 years and over are required to provide proof of full vaccination and follow current
Victorian Government directions at www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au.
