News and Media Releases

‘Windana’ meaning ‘to hunt together’, describes the three carnivore groups which visitors have the opportunity to watch throughout the day; African Painted Dogs, Lions and Hyenas.

As part of these new all-day viewings, visitors can now witness the latest additions to Monarto’s Hyena population: two six-month-old Spotted Hyena cubs, Armani and Makhali.

Today Senator Dana Wortley will officially open the ‘Windana Viewing Platform’ – thus completing the third of five stages of Monarto Zoo’s new animal viewing and interactive visitor experience.

Visitors will now have the opportunity to see the Lion pride and the African Wild Dog pack being fed during informative and entertaining keeper talks.

As a part of Zu-Loop, visitors can also visit this awe-inspiring part of the Zoo by either a commuter safari bus or by bush walking track.

President of Zoos SA, Heather Caddick said the new ‘Windana Viewing Platform’ has been strategically placed between the Lion, Dog and Hyena enclosures to allow for closer encounter opportunities for Monarto Zoo visitors.

"The raised platform gives a 'bird's eye' view of natural animal behaviours, and walking trails link the platform to other animal enclosures in the Park,” Mrs Caddick said.

"If we are able to make an emotional connection between people and wildlife, we are more able to inform them about the importance of conservation, and ways to help save animals from extinction.”

Associate Director, Peter Clark said the new platform meant visitors could now interact with the Lions, Painted Dogs, and Hyena, while highlighting the animals’ conservation in the wild.

“This platform would not have been possible without the support from the Department of Innovation Industry, Science and Research, the State Government and Life Member of Zoos SA Sue Nudl,” Mr Clark said.