Paignton Zoo enclosure reopens with exciting additions

Cape porcupines Comet and Luna have moved into their new enclosure at Paignton Zoo
-Credit:Paignton Zoo


Paignton Zoo has welcomed two animals to their new home following the reopening of one of its enclosures. The popular indoor desert-themed enclosure, Arid Lands, reopened to the public at the start of this year following several weeks of renovations.

Behind the scenes staff have made habitat modifications, replanted and transformed the exhibit to offer visitors an immersive glimpse into the lives of the animals living in the area. Paignton Zoo has now moved two residents into the new enclosure - cape porcupines Comet and Luna.

Native to Africa's arid regions, cape porcupines are the continent's largest rodents. The striking pair, who joined the zoo's collection last summer, are now thriving in their specially designed habitat.

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Located in the heart of the zoo, the enhanced space features carefully crafted enrichment elements that encourage natural behaviours like foraging and burrowing.

Owen Taylor, Curator of Mammals at Paignton Zoo, commented: "We’re very pleased with how well Comet and Luna have adapted to their new environment in Arid Lands. As nocturnal animals, they're most active during our winter months when the earlier sunset means visitors have a better chance of seeing them explore and forage.

"Their relocation to Arid Lands gives visitors the opportunity to observe these unique animals up close and in a more naturalistic setting."

The renovated exhibit represents another step in Paignton Zoo's ongoing commitment to providing optimal environments for its diverse collection of wildlife. Visitors should note that repair work is now underway on the neighbouring Tropical Trails facility, which was temporarily closed following storm damage.

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Scaffolding has been erected to facilitate roof repairs, with work expected to take several weeks to complete. The resident sloths, Mo and Ria, will remain in their temporary off-show facility during this period.

The zoo will provide regular updates on the restoration progress.