How a 700-acre zoo uses massive plant cultivation to sustain its diverse animal population
In short: Australia Zoo has evolved from a small 2-acre reptile park into a massive 700-acre conservation hub. While the public explores 110 acres, the remaining 600 acres are dedicated entirely to growing food for the animals. This meticulous, pesticide-free operation is essential for maintaining the health of over 1,200 resident creatures.
The scale of the operation at Australia Zoo is staggering. With over 500 employees, the facility must manage the dietary needs of a vast array of species. Elephants, for instance, are among the most demanding residents, with each of the four female Sumatran elephants consuming 150kg of plant life daily. Despite the zoo's extensive home-grown efforts, which include everything from eucalypts and bananas to hibiscus and roses, the weekly food bill still reaches $80,000. This cycle of consumption is circular; Robert Irwin notes that the zoo produces some of the world's finest tomatoes by enriching the soil with elephant manure.
Beyond daily sustenance, the zoo serves as a critical conservation engine. Robert Irwin emphasizes that habitat loss is the primary driver of animal extinction, a reality that dictates the zoo's broader mission. To combat this, the organization manages three conservation properties across Queensland and operates a dedicated animal hospital. Since opening in 2004, the hospital has provided 24-hour care, growing from an initial intake of 60 patients to treating approximately 10,000 sick or injured animals annually. This work is supported by ongoing research into medicines and preventative care conducted in collaboration with other institutions.
The zoo’s landscape design also functions as an educational and aesthetic tool. Exhibits like the 2.5-acre Cheetah Highlands are carefully curated to mimic natural environments, utilizing specific grasses and rock formations to accommodate the needs of the animals. Even the entrance reflects the zoo's history; three large bottle trees, originally planted by the late Steve Irwin, were relocated via crane to serve as a welcoming committee at the new centre. This commitment to native flora, including the rare Coochin Hills Grevillea, ensures that the zoo remains a living, breathing testament to the importance of habitat preservation.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Terri and Robert Irwin explain why plants are essential to Australia Zoo | Gardening Australia
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