Rockhampton Zoo announces very first animal encounters
Published on 29 March 2021
Rockhampton Zoo-goers will soon have the chance to meet the meerkats – literally!
Next month, visitors will be able to get up close and personal with the resident meerkat mob, as part of the Zoo’s first ever animal encounters experience.
Councillor for Sports, Parks and Public Spaces Cherie Rutherford said she was thrilled to announce the official launch of something so special for both the Zoo and its future visitors.
“I am absolutely delighted that this is something visitors will soon be able to experience here at our amazing zoo, and I know without a doubt that it is going to be well received by the community,” Cr Rutherford said.
“Each encounter will run for approximately 25 minutes, and in that time you will be able to be with the meerkats in their enclosure, take photos, feed them and if you’re very lucky – you may even have the meerkats sit right beside you or even on your shoulder or on top of your head!
“You’ll get to learn about the meerkats from our amazing keepers, experience their cheeky and inquisitive behaviours firsthand, and see how they interact with one another.
“They have won my heart since the day they arrived here at the zoo, and I am sure they will soon win many, many others.”
Adding to the excitement, Cr Rutherford said that a percentage of proceeds will be donated to supporting animal conservation.
“We are extremely happy to also announce that 15 per cent of the sales from these encounters will be donated directly to projects that help protect animals in the wild.
“Not only will visitors be able to experience an encounter, they will also be helping support wildlife conservation which is incredible.”
Cr Rutherford credited the Zoo keepers and staff for the efforts to bring the encounter concept to fruition.
“Prior to coming to Rockhampton Zoo, the meerkats were part of animal encounters at their previous zoo home.
“Our keepers have been working to ensure the meerkats continue to feel comfortable and confident around new people.”
The meerkat mob is made up of four females, including five year old Aya, her one-and-a-half year old daughter Sabari, and her two pups Keeya and Mahlia who are both seven and a half months.
The encounters will commence in April. Keep an eye on Rockhampton Zoo’s Facebook page for details of when tickets go on sale.
More details will also be made available on Rockhampton Zoo’s website closer to, including information on times, prices and terms and conditions.
The Rockhampton Zoo is owned and operated by Rockhampton Regional Council.