Mitchell Park Zoo
Mitchell Park Zoo, also known as Mitchell Park or Mitchell's Park, is the sole zoo located in Durban, South Africa. Originally established as an ostrich farm in 1910, it has evolved to house a variety of smaller animals and birds, alongside popular visitor amenities.
Key Facts
- ›Established in 1910 as an ostrich farm.
- ›Located in the Morningside suburb of Durban, South Africa.
- ›Notable past resident was an Indian Elephant named Nellie, gifted in 1928.
- ›Currently houses smaller animals like blue duiker, South American monkeys, raccoons, and various birds.
- ›Features a children's playground, walk-through aviary, and the Blue Zoo tea garden.
Walk-Through Aviary
Nellie
About Mitchell Park Zoo
Mitchell Park Zoo, also referred to as Mitchell Park or Mitchell's Park, is the sole zoological institution within the city of Durban, South Africa. Situated in the Morningside suburb, it holds a historical significance as the region's only zoo.
History and Development
The zoo's origins trace back to 1910 when it was established as an ostrich farm. This initial venture proved to be unprofitable, leading to the gradual introduction of other animal species. At one point, the zoo housed numerous large animals, with the most celebrated resident being an Indian Elephant named Nellie. Nellie was a gift from the Maharajah of Mysore in 1928 and was noted for her unusual talents, including the ability to play a mouth organ and crack coconuts with her feet.
Current Collection and Facilities
Today, Mitchell Park Zoo focuses on a collection of smaller animals. Visitors can observe species such as the blue duiker, various small South American monkeys, raccoons, and a diverse array of birds. The largest animals currently residing at the zoo are Aldabra giant tortoises. Beyond its animal exhibits, the zoo offers amenities designed for family enjoyment, including a children's playground, a walk-through aviary, and the Blue Zoo tea garden. A large lawn area is also available for picnics, making it a popular spot for recreation. The zoo is adjacent to Jameson Park, an area that was formerly a pineapple plantation.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mitchell Park Zoo known for?
Mitchell Park Zoo is known as the only zoo in Durban, South Africa. It was historically famous for an Indian Elephant named Nellie, who could play a mouth organ. Today, it features a variety of smaller animals and birds, along with visitor amenities like a playground and tea garden.
What animals can be seen at Mitchell Park Zoo?
The zoo currently houses smaller animals such as blue duiker, various small South American monkeys, raccoons, and a range of birds including parrots and peafowls. The largest animals currently at the zoo are Aldabra giant tortoises.
When was Mitchell Park Zoo founded?
Mitchell Park Zoo was established in 1910. It began its existence as an ostrich farm but later expanded to include other animals.
What facilities does Mitchell Park Zoo offer visitors?
Visitor facilities at Mitchell Park Zoo include a children's playground, a walk-through aviary, and the Blue Zoo tea garden. There is also a large lawn area suitable for picnics.
Was there a famous elephant at Mitchell Park Zoo?
Yes, a notable former resident was an Indian Elephant named Nellie. She was gifted to the zoo by the Maharajah of Mysore in 1928 and was known for her ability to play a mouth organ and crack coconuts with her feet.
Related Zoos
Johannesburg Zoo
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National Zoo
The National Zoological Garden of South Africa, informally known as the Pretoria Zoo, is the national zoo of South Africa, established in 1899. Spanning 80 hectares, it is one of the largest zoos globally and features diverse landscapes, including hilly terrain and flat ground bisected by the Apies River.
Umgeni River Bird Park
The Umgeni River Bird Park is a bird zoo situated in Durban, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa, established in 1984. Originally designed by Dr. Alan Abrey in a former quarry, it aims to educate visitors about birds from across the globe and is recognized for its conservation efforts, particularly with threatened species.