 |
You are here: Attractions News » August 2008 » Noah’s Ark has a colony of new defenders |
 |
Noah’s Ark has a colony of new defenders!
Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm has welcomed a new family of black-tailed Prairie dogs. The cute arrivals can be found in the newly constructed Prairie Dog Mountain in the North America section. The colony of prairie dogs (a mixture of males and females) arrived from Banham Zoo. They have been placed in the North America Zone within the 100 acre zoo and will join the American Bison, Caribou with future plans to introduce North American Bears into the section. These charismatic, rabbit-sized rodents live on North America's prairies and open grasslands in only a fraction of their former numbers. They are highly social animals living in colonies which are separated into towns, wards, neighbourhoods and family members. Their extensive underground burrows are marked by mounds of packed earth at the surface entrance. Entrances have listening posts to ensure the rodents can monitor movements of predators on the surface. Head keeper, Chris Wilkinson, says “Prairie dogs are fascinating creatures. Their underground warrens have defined nurseries, sleeping quarters and even toilets! They are very social animals and recognise each other by gently touching teeth which is often mistaken as kissing!” Visitors can visit the Prairie Dogs at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Wraxall throughout the summer holiday Monday – Saturday 10.30 – 5pm. For more details check the website at www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk
.gif)
