The ‘open Zoo’ concept is becoming increasingly popular among wildlife enthusiasts and countries looking seriously at a new approach of animal conservation. Singapore Zoological Gardens or Singapore Zoo is also a world renowned open zoo which boasts of its own unique features.
Animals at the Singapore Zoological Gardens are kept in extensive and spacious landscaped areas. The animals and visitors are usually kept apart by either wet or dry moats. However, fierce animals such as jaguars, leopards and tigers are placed in attractively landscaped glass fronted enclosures.
Better known by locals as the Mandai Zoo, the Singapore Zoological Gardens occupies an area of 28 hectares and was opened on 27 June 1973. Built by the government of Singapore, the zoo cost nearly 9 million Singaporean dollars. This remarkable zoo is maintained and operated by Wildlife Reserves Singapore who also administers the adjoining Jurong BirdPark and Night Safari.
Animals at this stunning open zoo live freely in spacious landscaped areas and in their natural habitat. There are 2530 different varieties of animals of 315 species of which 16% are considered threatened. The most important attribute of this astounding zoo is that it is not merely a place where visitors can observe animals. It is also a place of learning. There are immense educational facts provided in order to convey knowledge regarding animals and wildlife conservation.
The Zoo offers so much fun and the most precious activity is taking a photograph with an animal star. Visitors and specially kids can also get close to the animals and enjoy Elephant rides, Horse carriage rides, Pony rides and Carousel rides. Furthermore, wildlife enthusiast can enjoy a personalised tour and discover how the animals are taken care of. Added to all the fun and excitement with the animals, there are many options available in house to have a bite.
It is estimated that 1.5 million people from all across the world visit the Singapore Zoological Gardens per annum since there is always something new waiting to be discovered here. So, to experience and witness the splendour of the natural world at this fine open zoo travellers can easily stay at a nearby well appointed Singapore accommodation. Most Singapore hotels are renowned for offering a range of facilities that cater to the needs of both corporate and leisure travellers.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
