Dusit Zoo To Reopen Soon After Renovations

[Jai Dee]

DUSIT ZOO WILL REOPEN SOON, WITH RED PANDAS AND PENGUINS AS HIGHLIGHTS OF THE ZOO

Dusit Zoo prepares to reopen its service, with red pandas and penguins as their main selling points this year.

Director of the zoo, Wisit Wichasil (วิศิษฏ์ วิชาศิลป์) said that last year, about 1.8-2 million people visited the zoo, an increase of 10-15% from the 2004 figures, because the zoo has brought in new animals and organized special activities all year. He said that for this year, the zoo, which has closed down for renovation, will reopen soon, adding that modern technology will be used to educate people about the animals. In addition, red pandas from China and penguins from Antarctica will be featured at the zoo this year.

Mr. Wichai added that the zoo will extend their operating hours from 8AM -6PM to 8AM-9PM, so that the zoo can serve as another natural tourist spot at night in Bangkok. He said that the renovation is 80% completed, expecting the zoo can reopen after Chinese New year this year. He said that tourists will increase by 10%, adding that the zoo still has no policy to raise its entry free, as the government has no plan to privatize the zoo at the moment.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 04 January 2006

[Florin]

Been there several times in the past, it's a great place to laze around on a Sunday afternoon

[Jai Dee]

Dusit Zoo to become Bangkok's night safari

BANGKOK, Jan 4 (TNA) - Dusit Zoo will soon become Bangkok's night safari, thanks to an initiative of the Zoological Park Organization Under the Royal Patronage of His Majesty the King to extend the zoo's opening hours until evening.

Dusit Zoo's officials told journalists here Wednesday that facilities were being arranged, including modifying of areas and preparing for special tram services to serve the public for their animal tours at night.

The works were expected to be completed soon--in time for the zoo to welcome children, the general public and tourists during the forthcoming Chinese New Year in late January, said the officials.

"Once the new project is launched, members of the general public and tourists are welcome at Dusit Zoo from day to night time," they added.

The extended opening hours of the Dusit Zoo will be later announced to the public.

Thailand's first night safari is Chiang Mai Night Safari in the North, which has opened for the public for more than 30 days during its test run.

The country's first night safari will be officially opened by February, according to government officials.

(TNA)--E002

[leisurely]

But will the facilites for the animals have improved. I am horrified by the conditions that most zoos keep their stock in. Unreal.