Sydney Wild Life in Darling Harbour, I’m not a fan
I’m not a fan of zoos, circuses with live animals or any form of animals in captivity or exploitation. There are exceptions though. We do visit places that have taken animals in for conservation purposes. Either to protect the species or protect a particular animal.
I was willing to give Sydney Wild Life a shot to see whether it sat well with me and whether I could recommend it to people in good faith.
What’s at Sydney Wild Life
Sydney Wild Life is essentially a walk through of Australian animals. They have all the staples you would expect to see from your koala to the bilby, the massive crocodile and the kangeroos. There is even a cassowary or two (pictured).
I found that there is a lot of good information around the place that aids in learning and understanding. There are signs which talk about animal facts, risks to animals and conservation efforts around the world. Is this enough though?
Despite the above I still don’t think this is enough.
I’m not a fan
Unfortunately I cannpt say that I am a fan. I think my issues can be summed up in 3 categories.
1. Is the space big enough?
A good example, but just one example, is the crococdile, Rocky. Rocky is absolutely huge. I am not sure though that the space that he is in is big enough for him. And should a perfectly healthy crocodile even be in a space?
In another open air enclosure are a number of kangeroos. Again, I found myself wondering if there is enough room for all of them.
2. There are far too many people in such a small space.
From the minute you stand in the queue you realise that you’re going to be fighting a crowd. While this is frustrating it is also concering for the animals to constantly be barraged, up close, by thousands of people all the time.
There were children banging on the glass and running towards animals. It just felt like the animals were getting a rough deal.
3. It costs a lot and I’m not sure the money goes back to the animals
Entrance is not cheap and for the same amount you could probably go to a really good facility where you get to see animals who are carefully looked after for conservation or rehabilitation purposes.
What did I like about Sydney Wild Life?
There are two things I liked about Sydney Wild Life. I really loved the education side of Sydney Wild Life and learning so much about different animals.
The other thing I liked were the butterflies, for selfish reasons. I loved the open air area where there were butterflies fluttering around. I have always wanted to go to a butterfly house and never knew I could experience one in Sydney.
Sydney Wild Life Zoo is just not for me. It does seem to be hugely popular and maybe that’s actually part of the problem.
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There are so many other things to do at Darling Harbour which won’t cost you an arm and a leg. I suggest trying out one of the following:
Monkey Baa Theater which is specially designed for kids to enjoy.
The Chinese Garden of Friendship.
