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Australia’s Perth Zoo has started the next phase of its government-backed AUS$51m expansion with work starting on a new gibbon habitat that will triple the animals’ space while also offering visitors new ways to see them
Tom Anstey | Planet Attractions | 22 May 2024
Primate Crossing will feature overhead rope pathways along which gibbons can swing directly above visitors Credit: Perth Zoo
Perth Zoo has started work on an AUS$11.7m (US$7.8m, €7.1m, £6.1m) project that will introduce a state-of-the-art gibbon habitat - the latest phase of development in the animal attraction’s multi-year, multi-million dollar transformation.
Part of a AUS$51m (US$34.2m, €31.3m, £26.7m) investment by the Australian government to transform the 125-year-old zoo, the project masterplan will include the development of the new Parkland Heart precinct - an area designed to improve visitor amenities while creating new and exciting ways for visitors to experience the zoo's wildlife.
As part of the works, the new 'Primate Crossing' habitat will feature overhead rope pathways along which gibbons can swing directly above visitors as they enter Perth Zoo. The plans, says the zoo, triples the existing amount of space for its resident gibbons while also offering visitors more chances to see them in action.
In addition to the new animal habitat, the Parkland Heart Precinct will also offer increased visitor amenities on its main lawn, which is set to feature an arbour, a free BBQ area, additional seating, and new event areas. A local aboriginal artist will design feature artwork for the arbour, while seating will be designed to pay homage to Western Australia's wildlife.
“Western Australians love a day at the zoo, and we want to make sure the Perth Zoo experience is world-class for years to come,” said Australia’s Premier, Roger Cook.
“Our investments are upgrading and modernising the zoo, delivering a better experience for visitors and a better habitat for wildlife.”
The wider masterplan has already delivered a new café precinct, playground, and function centre, with the works coinciding with a rise in visitor numbers, which hit their peak in October last year when more than 100,000 people visited over the course of that month.
The new primate run is expected to be complete in early 2025.
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