Moving house is one of the most stressful things we do, but not for the bush dogs at Knowsley Safari, who have moved into a brand new habitat – complete with state-of-the-art heating and camera systems, viewing windows, satellite nest boxes and a landscaped garden with pond and stream.
The smallest pack hunting dog on the planet, these near-threatened semi-aquatic carnivores are being well looked after in their own purpose-built oasis at Knowsley. The breeding pack can be monitored without being disturbed via a high tech camera system, ideal for keeping a watchful eye on any new pups.
Visitors can enjoy uninterrupted views of the pack through the new six metre long glass viewing panels that overlook the exhibit. Specialist elements to the design also aid animal keepers in providing the highest standards of care for the bush dogs, with specially designed handling facilities, removeable runs and interactive substrates.
The expansive outdoor space has been planted with foliage and grasses to simulate their native Central and South America origin and special satellite nesting boxes mean the bush dogs can choose between several nesting areas and move their pups between dens.
Adam Kenyon, Head of Carnivores, Knowsley Safari says, “Protecting the threatened bush dog species is of utmost importance and our new habitat took months of careful planning and design to ensure we provide a space where they’ll thrive. We’re really pleased with how the new pack has settled in and thrilled that our guests can also experience expansive visibility of these diminutive carnivores.”
Guests must pre-book a timeslot, book online here.
Please check opening times on the website. With contactless entry and enhanced hygiene regimes and social-distancing measures in place across the Safari’s 550-acre site, guests can be assured of one of the country’s safest days out.
