Trinidad zoo for facelift

Trinidad's Emperor Valley Zoo is getting a facelift, and may I add, a long overdue one.

Tourism minister Joseph Ross last week turned the sod for construction work scheduled to last two years. The cost for the project is TT$58 million or about US$10 million.

Asked about the rationale in spending that kind of money when the economy is beginning to feel the effect of of global recession Ross said, "If we are to ask why engage in this major expenditure now in the face of the global financial meltdown — it is a moot point indeed. Not only is this project aligned with Government’s 2020 Vision towards achieving a first world status, but if one is to accurately judge the civility and development of a society, it is instructive that we look at how animals are cared for and treated.”

The Zoological Society of Trinidad and Tobago (ZSTT)runs the zoo which, at the time of its opening in 1952, covered 15 acres and consisted of ten cages and 127 animals. There might be more animals and cages today but the facility has been criticised for its ageing animals particularly the big cats on display. The zoo focuses on neotropical species with some exotic ones thrown in for public satisfaction.

It is expected that the improvements will make the facility even more attractive to locals and visitors alike.