Marwell Zoo’s biggest ever exhibit, a new £7.8 million Tropical House is now open.
Under the Tropical House’s curved roof, a rainforest and laboratory spring to life. Spanning two levels, you can enjoy fantastic viewpoints over a lush tropical canopy, waterfall and forest floor – a great opportunity to share the habitat of new, colourful and charismatic mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and insects.
The rainforest is home to extraordinary animals, including a Linné’s two-toed sloth, mouse deer, and pygmy marmosets on their own primate island. There are also free-flying birds and more than 2,500 fish in the aquarium.
The exhibit is part of a 10-year, £17 million investment plan to create better animal habitats and immersive guest experiences.
Marwell Zoo will convert some of its 700 tonnes of animal waste into energy to heat the site and other buildings across the zoo. Woodchip from its woodland management operations will also heat the site’s buildings. This will reduce the zoo’s dependency on fossil fuels, with the goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2020.
The exhibit’s curved roof uses the latest technology. An insulating canopy lets natural light shine through, creating perfect conditions for 650 plants. More than 65 different plant species thrive and form a home for the animals. Recycled rainwater from the roof provides water for the plants and aquarium.
There are plenty of events happening at Marwell that will get you close to the wonders of the natural world. Spend time with Marwell’s playful primates at ‘Lemur Loop’ – a new walk through exhibit. Meet crazy botanist Dr Chris Anthemum or CBeebies’ Mr Bloom this summer. Earn your level 3 broomstick licence during Boo at the Zoo this Halloween. Celebrate an enchanted Christmas from 17 November to 24 December.
