Canberra Reptile Zoo opens new home for vulnerable native species
The Canberra Reptile Zoo has opened a permanent space for four native species. These species face extinction or scarcity in the ACT.
The Canberra Reptile Zoo has opened The Wild Side of Canberra, a new permanent exhibition. It features grassland earless dragons, corroboree frogs, Rosenberg monitors and green and golden bell frogs.
The ACT government donated some of the animals after they passed breeding age in conservation programs. Green and golden bell frogs have not been found in the wild in the ACT since the 1980s.
However, they survive in coastal areas. Rosenberg monitors now have only one recognised colony left in the territory.
But they thrive in Western Australia and South Australia. Zoo founder Peter Child said the display teaches visitors how vulnerable these creatures are.
The zoo works with the United Ngunnawal Elders Council on animal care.
- Not found in ACT since the 1980s
- Green and golden bell frogs wild absence
- Only one recognised colony
- Rosenberg monitor colonies in ACT
- Four reptile and amphibian species
- Species featured
Why it mattersThe exhibition raises awareness of species at risk of disappearing from the ACT. It also connects visitors to conservation efforts in their region.
AustraliaCanberra residents can now see their region's most endangered wildlife and learn how extinction threats affect local animals.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 40 min ago
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