The new purpose-built reptile habitat at the Kyabram Fauna Park will allow visitors to see Australia’s snakes and amphibians in a new light.
The reptile habitat is welcoming its first visitors these April school holidays and features climate-controlled habitats for 14 reptile species and green tree frogs.
Notable residents include Australia’s inland taipan and south-east Asia’s reticulated python, which are respectively the most venomous and longest snakes in the world.
The habitats provide each animal with important social and environmental enrichment opportunities, allowing visitors to also learn about the important role the species play in their native ecosystems.
Park director Lachlan Gordon said the new reptile habitat would attract both local visitors and those making a trek, boosting tourism in Victoria’s north.
“Our new reptile habitat will allow even more people to experience the wonder of wildlife and learn about the importance of reptiles in our ecosystems,” Mr Gordon said.
“We look forward to welcoming Zoos Victoria members and visitors to Kyabram Fauna Park these school holidays.“
The park is situated on 55 hectares of parkland and wetlands in Kyabram.
The $781,000 Kyabram Fauna Park reptile habitat was funded thanks to $200,000 from the Federal Government’s Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program, $200,000 from Campaspe Shire Council, $250,000 from the Victorian Government, and $131,000 from Zoos Victoria.
The park has undergone $1.94 million of infrastructure works as part of a $2.7 billion Victorian Government package to create jobs, tourism and support local economies.
Alongside the reptile habitat, upgrades include a new visitor centre, refurbished education and conservation centre, improved animal habitats and predator-proof fencing.
As part of the Zoos Victoria network, children under 16 years accompanied by a paying adult receive free entry to Kyabram Fauna Park during school holidays, weekends and public holidays.
Kyabram Fauna Park is open 10am to 5pm daily.