At the Zoo

Last Saturday morning I went with three friends to the Tasmania Zoo, just twelve kilometres up the road at Riverside, and what a wonderful experience it was!

We were the first patrons in that day so we were easily able to make our way past the meerkats to the pygmy marmosets and other primates, and on to the big cats: lions, caracals and servals. We had just reached the Sumatran Tigers when suddenly a deafening, terrifying roar reverberated through the zoo: two of the lions were facing off.

Recovered, we wandered across to the gentle wombats who were eating breakfast and passed the Tasmanian Devils before stopping for a rest and a cuppa. We then continued on to the koalas and nocturnal bilbies.

Next were the otters and capybaras. I have recently 'adopted' Morgan, one of two adult females capybaras, and it was a delight to finally meet her and the rest of her family.

Jurassic Swamp was calling, where Velociraptors share space with Brontosaurus, and Tyrannosaurus Rex opens his terrifying jaws! Then it was on to the Australian Dog and dingo, cassowary, alpaca and huge collection of roosters and hens.

Finally we saw the most beautiful birds, from various parts of the world, and the gorgeous red panda!

By this time the zoo was alive with people so we browsed the shop and then headed home. Two and a half hours had passed quickly and we had walked kilometres, all very worthwhile.

Each time I visit the zoo more exhibits are being constructed, all of them state-of-the-art and well kept. The animals are clearly loved and cared for and it is a privilege to be in their company, if only for a short time.