And it’s time once again for news...from Down Under.
Okay, it’s not really Down Under, but earlier today hundreds of children got a chance to see jellyfish, venomous lionfish and about thirty other species at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo Australian Adventure. The renovated reef exhibit opened today.
The exhibit was originally constructed in 1987. Over the winter, the 17,000 gallon salt water tank replicating Australia’s Great Barrier Reef was drained and cleaned, new colored LED lights were added, along with iPads to help you immediately identify and learn about your favorite fish.
The Zoo’s Jessica BritaSegyde says it’s all thanks to the community. She says "this funding came from donors, this entire zoo was built by the community. So we’ve had individual and corporate donors who have supported this project.”
Foundations have also contributed to the $7 million, threephase renovation of the Australian Adventure.
Phasetwo Reef renovations also include shark and stingray displays that will open this summer. Phase three will occur throughout 2016, and renovate the kangaroo and dingo outback, and add a large bird exhibit.