Celebrating 125 Years of the National Zoological Garden in Pretoria
The Pretoria Zoo houses 27 adult Sungazer Lizards, all rescued by Nature Conservation officials from the illegal wildlife trade
The National Zoological Garden in Pretoria, a cornerstone of South African wildlife research and tourism, proudly marks its 125th anniversary this year. As the only zoo with national status, it boasts over a century of commitment to protecting and showcasing South Africa’s rich biodiversity and conservation initiatives.
From October 17 to 31, 2024, visitors can enjoy special anniversary promotions. Each weekend, the first 125 guests will receive free entry, while all other visitors can benefit from a 50% discount on tickets. This is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to explore the zoo at a reduced price.
The zoo also offers a variety of engaging daily activities aimed at educating and entertaining visitors. Highlights include interactive school lessons, animal talks, and exciting zoo adventures featuring lion feeding, giraffe interactions, gorilla enrichment, and alligator feeding. These experiences provide a unique opportunity to learn about the fascinating animals that inhabit the zoo and underscore the importance of conservation efforts and animal care.
Significant progress is being made on the zoo’s facility enhancement project, with renovations nearly complete at most animal enclosures. The upgrade of 116 display enclosures is finished, and work on an additional 15 enclosures is approaching completion.
Since launching renovations in June 2022, the National Zoological Garden has focused on upgrading its infrastructure, with many enclosures already completed. The animals have happily returned to their newly revamped homes, while others eagerly await their turn as construction wraps up across the zoo. Animals in enclosures still undergoing work are temporarily relocated, with most remaining visible in alternative habitats.
Reflecting on this significant milestone, Shonisani Munzhedzi, CEO of the South African National Biodiversity Institute, stated, “The National Zoological Garden has played a crucial role in conservation and public education. Our mission extends beyond being a tourist destination; we are dedicated to preserving endangered species, advancing wildlife research, and deepening the public’s understanding of biodiversity. As we celebrate 125 years, we encourage everyone to explore the unique offerings of the zoo and support our vital work.”
Leslie Mudimeli, executive director of the zoo, added, “We provide families and visitors a space to connect with animals while serving as a research institution recognized by the Department of Science and Innovation as a certified science center.”
Home to over 4,200 animals, from rainforest tarantulas to majestic lions and tigers, the zoo is staffed by a dedicated team of biologists, curators, and keepers who ensure that each animal thrives in habitat-appropriate enclosures.
The zoo has a successful breeding program for vulnerable and endangered wildlife endemic to Southern Africa, including the Sungazer Lizard. This program, developed over years with meticulous planning and attention to environmental conditions, currently supports 27 adult Sungazers, all rescued from the illegal wildlife trade.
In 2023, the zoo celebrated the birth of four Sungazer Lizards, showcasing the commitment and expertise of its staff and their colleagues at the South African National Biodiversity Institute.
Additionally, the zoo has partnered with Vulpro to release Cape Vultures into the wild, successfully incubating, hatching, and raising one to three chicks each breeding season since 1997.
Recently, the zoo welcomed Sylvester, a male buff-cheeked gibbon, into a breeding collaboration program with a female gibbon, proudly announcing the birth of their first offspring in July 2024.
For those interested in supporting wildlife conservation, the zoo offers the “Adopt a Wild Child” program. For an annual contribution of R150 to R1,250, participants receive free entry to the zoo for a year and a personalized adoption certificate, fostering a meaningful connection to the zoo while directly contributing to its conservation efforts.
Dedicated to combining adventure and research, the National Zoological Garden offers visitors an experience that is both enjoyable and impactful.
“As we celebrate 125 years of wildlife management, we invite everyone to join the festivities, learn about the zoo’s crucial role in South Africa’s conservation efforts, and support our mission to protect wildlife for future generations,” said Nontsikelelo Mpulo, director of marketing communication and commercialization. “Come explore, discover, and experience all that the National Zoological Garden has to offer!”
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