AusLeisure

Wellington Zoo has welcomed two Lace Monitor lizards for the first time in the zoo's history, with the pair named Darwin and Jannali, now ready to greet visitors over the summer holidays.

Darwin and Jannali were hatched at Auckland Zoo before arriving at Wellington Zoo in 2018. For the last five years they have been living in a habitat off-display where they’ve had time to grow before now moving into their newly built home.

The new habitat has been under construction for the last year and features both internal and external areas landscaped and furnished to replicate the animals’ natural habitat. The entire habitat is temperature-controlled, and Darwin and Jannali will have access to a pool with running water.

“We are incredibly excited to be welcoming Lace Monitor Lizards to Wellington Zoo for the first time in our history” shared Karen Fifield MNZM, Wellington Zoo Chief Executive and President of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

“The biggest Lizards you’ll find in Wellington, these Australian native animals can reach up to two metres in length and will join the ‘Neighbours’ area of the Zoo, home to several other animals native to Australia including Kangaroos, Tasmanian Devils, and Wallabies.

“Our Zoo whānau has been working tirelessly to build the perfect Lace Monitor habitat, and we know our community will agree that we have provided Darwin and Jannali with a stimulating environment where they will be happy and healthy”.

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