Asiatic Lion Display at Chester Zoo

Chester Zoo has unveiled a new conservation area dedicated to the endangered Asiatic lions, providing them with a spacious 4,780 square metre habitat that mirrors the dry forest scrubland savannahs of India's Gir Forest region.

The state-of-the-art facility, constructed using environmentally friendly considerate construction techniques, adheres to the latest sustainable construction standards. It includes heated indoor dens, raised hilltop viewing points, heated rocks, and a water hole, all designed to cater to the needs of these impressive animals.

Asiatic lions are impressively built animals with compact bodies, powerful legs, and strong jaws and teeth. They have retractable claws that can be up to 38mm long, and rough tongues like sandpaper for scraping meat from bones.

The new habitat is the largest for Asiatic lions in the UK, and the move marks a significant step in the European breeding programme for this critically endangered species. However, it's important to note that the Asiatic lions survive in just 0.1% of their former range in the wild, and face threats such as human-wildlife conflict and conservation action.

Dave Hall, Team Manager of Carnivores at Chester Zoo, expressed his excitement about the new habitat, "This new conservation area provides our Asiatic lions with a more natural and stimulating environment, which is crucial for their wellbeing and breeding success. We hope this new facility will help raise awareness about the threats these magnificent animals face in the wild."

Dan Sparks, Project Manager at Harry Fairclough, the principal contractors on the project, shared similar sentiments, "We're incredibly proud to have been involved in this conservation project for Chester Zoo. As principal contractor, it was our responsibility to plan, manage, and coordinate all work during the construction phase, ensuring hazards were identified and risks controlled."

Despite extensive research, no relevant information was found regarding which organization is responsible for creating the largest Asiatic lion habitat in the UK. However, the new visitor zone aims to educate the public about the threats faced by Asiatic lions in the wild and the importance of conservation efforts.

The climate-controlled dens are heated by sustainable 'green' energy and are supported by fully insulated walls and roofs to minimize power consumption. This eco-friendly approach is reflective of Chester Zoo's commitment to sustainability and conservation.

The new habitat is now home to the Asiatic lions at Chester Zoo, offering them a safe and stimulating environment while contributing to the global efforts to protect this endangered species.