Indianapolis Zoo has announced a new elephant enclosure expansion. The attraction is creating ‘more room to roam’ for the animals with Tembo Camp, opening in May 2020.
The new exhibit will house the zoo’s African elephant herd, giving them more room to roam and offering visitors up-close experiences with the animals.
Guests will also get the chance to see how the elephants are cared for, and will hear about global conservation efforts supported by Indianapolis Zoo.
“BIG news! Our elephants will have more room to roam when Tembo Camp opens in May 2020,” the zoo wrote on Twitter.
African elephant herd will live in the new Tembo Camp
“Renovations have already begun to create this new space in Plains. When complete, you’ll be able to get up close & watch the amazing care our elephants receive.”
Tembo Camp, which is currently under construction, will be located in the Plains exhibit. Tembo means elephant in Swahili.
Elephants have featured at Indianapolis Zoo since it opened in 1964. The attraction currently has six African elephants, including the largest elephant, called Sophi.
The zoo’s other elephants are Zahara, Tombi, Kubwa, Kedar, and Ivory.
African elephants are the largest land mammals on the planet, and can reach heights of up to 13 feet and weigh up to seven tonnes.
Guests will have up-close experiences with elephants
Elephants are at risk throughout Africa due to habitat loss and poaching. On average, 96 elephants are killed every day for their ivory tusks, which are then illegally traded.
Elsewhere, Cincinnati Zoo is raising funds for its ‘Roo Valley’ project. The attraction is selling personalised pavers as part of its ‘More Home to Roam’ campaign.
The funds raised will be used to build better homes for animals, as well as a better zoo for visitors.
Meanwhile, TripAdvisor will no longer sell tickets to attractions or experiences where whales and dolphins are captive and put on public display.
The company’s decision comes after similar moves from Qantas, British Airways Holidays and Virgin Holidays.
Images: Indianapolis Zoo
