Opening of world-class reptile exhibit at Perth Zoo

5/6/97

Environment Minister Cheryl Edwardes and Energy Minister Colin Barnett today opened a new world-class exhibit at the Perth Zoo - the Alinta Reptile Encounter.

"The Alinta Reptile Encounter represents another big step forward for conservation education in Western Australia," Mrs Edwardes said.

"Not only will zoo visitors experience first hand the world of reptiles, but they will also be able to learn more about the importance of reptiles."

WA has the greatest diversity of reptile wildlife in the world with over 450 known species.

With more than 25 reptile species - some exhibited for the first time - displayed in 16 natural enclosures, the Alinta Reptile Encounter provides state-of-the-art exhibiting and housing for reptiles.

"In line with continued development at Perth Zoo, the Alinta Reptile Encounter marks a positive shift from displaying reptiles in inappropriate exhibits such as the zoo's previous 'Snake House', which was almost 100 years old," Mrs Edwardes said.

"Perth Zoo's partnership with AlintaGas, and co-operation with the Department of Conservation and Land Management, provide an opportunity to update and upgrade animal display and care facilities, and give the community a range of native and exotic reptiles experiences."

With the help of the CALM, Perth Zoo' s Australian fauna and reptile staff assembled the collection.

The native reptiles, along with exotic species such as the 4.6m Reticulated Python acquired from Taronga Zoo in Sydney, are valuable additions to the zoo's existing collection.

Some of the reptiles collected bred during their 30-day quarantine period. Offspring of animals collected in the wild may be released into the species' natural range to reduce the impact of removing animals.

"AlintaGas has been a great supporter of developing this reptile experience through its sponsorship, while CALM has provided its valuable specialist knowledge of WA's reptiles," Mrs Edwardes said.

"With partnerships like this, Perth Zoo's contribution to conservation and education can only continue to grow."

Media contacts: Diana Russell Coote: 9421 7777

Perth Zoo, Ian Williams: 9474 0383