Abu Dhabi, Aug. 4th, 2008 (WAM)--Al Ain Zoo announced the opening of a new exhibit dedicated to the African Wild Dog (Lycaon Pictus), a critically endangered carnivore from Africa. The exhibit, which will span over 1300 square meters, will be the first home for the wild dogs in the Middle East.
As part of Al Ain Zoos commitment to assisting in the conservation of threatened animal species, the Zoo has developed and landscaped a new exhibit that will meet all the needs of the African Wild Dog. This is the first time that these critically endangered carnivores will be on display in any zoo in the Middle East. Majid Al Mansouri, managing director, Al Ain Zoo, said: "The arrival of the African Wild Dogs is a very significant step for Al Ain Zoo. While these critically endangered animals will be cared for and given a dramatic new exhibit to meet their needs, guests will have the opportunity to observe these animals in a natural setting and be a part of something very special."The 7 wild dogs, of which 5 are males and 2 females, have currently been isolated for quarantine purposes and to help them slowly accommodate themselves to their new African exhibit surroundings. Each of the Wild Dogs will enjoy its own night den and specially constructed off limit facilities for breeding purposes. It is planned for the group to start breeding within the next 2 years and establish a second group. With their decreasing numbers in the wild, it is important that Al Ain Zoo establishes a captive breeding programme in order to secure long term conservation of this specie. The Dogs will be part of the African Safari experience in the new Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort currently being planned and designed. Visitors will be able to feel and experience the African wildlife by viewing these dramatic animals through a series of specially designed glass windows under a shaded walkway. Visitors will also be able to watch these animals during the summer night zoo under an amazing moonlight effect until September. Mark Craig, director of Al Ain Zoo said "Visitors to Al Ain Zoo will now be able to view one of Africas most active and social carnivores in an exhibit that is landscaped to match their natural habitat. These animals are active at night so the best time to view them is early evening during our Summer Night Zoo". Al Ain Zoo at the heart of Al Ain is undergoing a series of rapid improvements that has seen the zoo change into a much more family friendly place where all visitors can connect with wildlife. The panoramic mountain backdrop and amazing landscape of the Al Ain Zoo has been used to great advantage for the newly arrived wild dogs. Their new exhibit with shallow pools, running water, grass, rock work and trees simulates the wild dogs natural habitat of Africa.Copyright Emirates News Agency (WAM) 2008.
