Blackpool Zoo reveals exciting new name behind its £500k giraffe development
Blackpool Zoo has unveiled the name of its £500k giraffe development inspired by a conservation project in Uganda that the zoo has supported for more than a decade.
The expanded attraction set to be known as Kidepo Trail, is inspired by the Kidepo Valley in Uganda a remote region covered by the Nubian Giraffe Conservation Project, which Blackpool Zoo directly supports through its long-standing partnership with the Giraffe Conservation Foundation.
Work on the major development at Giraffe Heights began last autumn and has seen the external habitat almost triple in size.
The upgrade will also significantly increase public viewing space with an extended walkway allowing visitors closer views of the animals.
The current residents, giraffes O’Grady and Olympia will benefit from the expanded environment which has been designed to offer a more immersive and enriching setting.
The new facility is on track to open in time for the Easter holidays.
Once complete, Kidepo Trail will feature African savannah soundscapes, safari-style lookout points, educational trails and opportunities for animal encounters.
The aim is to give visitors a stronger sense of the landscapes the animals would experience in the wild, while also highlighting ongoing conservation efforts.
A purpose-built antelope stable has also been constructed at the opposite end of the extended paddock. This will become home to the zoo’s sitatunga herd, an African antelope species which will share the space with the giraffes.
Adam Kenyon, Section Head at Blackpool Zoo, said: “It has been fantastic to see this investment take shape in recent months and it marks a huge milestone in our ongoing commitment to the care of these majestic animals.
“We are long term supporters of the Nubian GiraffeConservation Project and have donated more than £10,000 to their efforts, withmore fundraising planned for this year, so the name has real meaning for us.
“This exciting development represents a new era for giraffesand sitatunga at Blackpool Zoo and the immersive savannah experiences andextended viewing platforms mean that visitors are in for an African inspired treat.
“We’re all really looking forward to unveiling Kidepo Trailat Giraffe Heights in time for the Easter holidays!”