Monarto Safari Park Monarto Safari Park News 2025
- Thread starter Luke899
- Start date
Not surprised considering South Australian weather; especially out at Monarto. I do anticipate some growth in regards to their exhibits as time goes on (keep in mind these exhibits are only fairly new and were all dirt just months back.
It would be incredibly costly to try and grow out and mantain vegetation around the whole complex year round.
Luke899
Well-Known Member
Monarto during the summer is quite dry and arid, that's why they've installed a fair few waterholes and pools. However, during the Autumn, Winter, and Spring Monarto is starkly different. Heres an images of the elephant habitat before construction in autumn/winter of 2023.
Very very different to what it is now, grass cover and vegetation just changes with the seasons.
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Burma and Permai have met for the first time
From their newsletter
"Late yesterday, both elephants showed signs that they were interested in interacting, and while Burma was a little shy at first, they came together to say hello through mesh contact.
Both elephants displayed curiosity and gentle behaviours towards each other, which is a great first step towards further interactions in the future.
This milestone is testament to the dedication and expertise of both the Monarto Safari Park and Perth Zoo animal care teams, who have worked tirelessly to ensure both elephants' comfort and wellbeing during this transition.
Stay tuned for more jumbo updates on what we hope is the start of a beautiful friendship!"
From their newsletter
"Late yesterday, both elephants showed signs that they were interested in interacting, and while Burma was a little shy at first, they came together to say hello through mesh contact.
Both elephants displayed curiosity and gentle behaviours towards each other, which is a great first step towards further interactions in the future.
This milestone is testament to the dedication and expertise of both the Monarto Safari Park and Perth Zoo animal care teams, who have worked tirelessly to ensure both elephants' comfort and wellbeing during this transition.
Stay tuned for more jumbo updates on what we hope is the start of a beautiful friendship!"
Luke899
Well-Known Member
Permai and Burma linking trunk + Video of it from that email
(Burma right, Permai Left)
>> https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Zxi-PqwsTJI <<
(Burma right, Permai Left)
>> https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Zxi-PqwsTJI <<
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So wonderful to see <3 <3 <3 <3, know am not alone in 'having something in my eye' right now. Both reunited with another ele' after close to three years without
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Luke899
Well-Known Member
Press conference with the keepers and staff, future of the herd, permai settling in, etc
Zoos SA - Permai update | Asian elephant Permai is settling into her new home at Monarto Safari Park after a mammoth journey from Perth Zoo. Monarto Safari Park director Peter... | By 7NEWS Adelaide | Facebook
Zoos SA - Permai update | Asian elephant Permai is settling into her new home at Monarto Safari Park after a mammoth journey from Perth Zoo. Monarto Safari Park director Peter... | By 7NEWS Adelaide | Facebook
Thanks for sharing @Luke899.
It was interesting to hear Andrew speak of how they’re being realistic with the expectations of Burma and Permai forming a bond. It’s been very anthropomorphised in the media as the start of a friendship; but Andrew said instead they’re hoping for them to amicably coexist (rather than become best buddies) and to look to each other for reassurance if they’re unsure about something - with the same expectations for their relationship with the Taronga cows.
It was also interesting to hear Andrew describe the similarities in personality between Burma and Permai, with them both described as shy, sometimes insecure elephants. They certainly relied a lot on Kashin and Tricia respectively when at Auckland and Perth Zoo. There’s no doubt in my mind that the assertive Pak Boon will assume the matriarch role early on in the introductions once the Taronga cows arrive.
Luke899
Well-Known Member
Swanson02
Well-Known Member
Monarto Safari Park Visit – 30/01/2025
PART ONE
I visited Monarto Safari Park today with my girlfriend and had a fantastic experience. The park was busier than expected, despite schools having returned, but the high visitation is always a positive sign. There was an exciting buzz around the park due to the arrival of Permai from Perth, and I was fortunate to watch a press conference in the visitor centre courtyard. It was also quite windy, and the park was the driest I have ever seen it—essentially devoid of grass, with most animals congregating around feed rather than grazing naturally. South Australia is under increasing pressure to officially declare a drought, but the state government remains hesitant, as doing so would require subsidies for certain farmers. As a result, the park was exceptionally dry and dusty!
Example of how dry Monarto is currently!
My Visit and Experiences
I arrived at opening and completed an entire bus loop without getting off, which took approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. I then embarked on a second loop, hopping off at the Outpost (Stop 2) and exploring the rest of the park on foot. Along the way, I attended the chimpanzee keeper talk—where I had an engaging conversation with a keeper—and visited the elephant precinct (speaking with a volunteer), as well as the Waterhole and carnivore precincts. Construction activity around the elephant exhibit remains ongoing following Permai’s arrival. Notably, the elephant tunnel has now been completed, allowing visitors to pass under the exhibits at the intersection of Elephant Areas 2 and 3. Although the elephants don't have access to these areas as of yet.
Link to Monarto Safari Park Map -
https://www.monartosafari.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/01/Monarto-Safari-Park-Map.pdf
Current Elephant Complex plan/schematic - (Elephant tunnel links Areas 2 & 3)
At 3:15 PM, I participated in the Rhino Keeper Experience, which included hand-feeding the resident Black Rhino bull, Induna (nicknamed ‘Doon’ by the keepers), some apples. I also hand-fed lucerne to the on-display White Rhino bull, Umfana (‘Fana’ to the keepers) as well as patted him and touched his horn. During this experience, I had insightful conversations with both the Black and White Rhino keepers. Overall, I highly recommend the experience—it was incredibly rewarding, though I would have liked it to last a little longer. The behind-the-scenes aspect was just as enjoyable, as I was able to see off-display species such as Waterbuck and Bull Nyala en route to the rhinos.
Induna the South-Central Black Rhinoceros Bull
Patting Umfana the Southern White Rhinoceros Bull
Notable Sightings
Here are some observations from my visit, many of which may already be known but are worth mentioning:
PART ONE
I visited Monarto Safari Park today with my girlfriend and had a fantastic experience. The park was busier than expected, despite schools having returned, but the high visitation is always a positive sign. There was an exciting buzz around the park due to the arrival of Permai from Perth, and I was fortunate to watch a press conference in the visitor centre courtyard. It was also quite windy, and the park was the driest I have ever seen it—essentially devoid of grass, with most animals congregating around feed rather than grazing naturally. South Australia is under increasing pressure to officially declare a drought, but the state government remains hesitant, as doing so would require subsidies for certain farmers. As a result, the park was exceptionally dry and dusty!
Example of how dry Monarto is currently!
My Visit and Experiences
I arrived at opening and completed an entire bus loop without getting off, which took approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. I then embarked on a second loop, hopping off at the Outpost (Stop 2) and exploring the rest of the park on foot. Along the way, I attended the chimpanzee keeper talk—where I had an engaging conversation with a keeper—and visited the elephant precinct (speaking with a volunteer), as well as the Waterhole and carnivore precincts. Construction activity around the elephant exhibit remains ongoing following Permai’s arrival. Notably, the elephant tunnel has now been completed, allowing visitors to pass under the exhibits at the intersection of Elephant Areas 2 and 3. Although the elephants don't have access to these areas as of yet.
Link to Monarto Safari Park Map -
https://www.monartosafari.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/01/Monarto-Safari-Park-Map.pdf
Current Elephant Complex plan/schematic - (Elephant tunnel links Areas 2 & 3)
At 3:15 PM, I participated in the Rhino Keeper Experience, which included hand-feeding the resident Black Rhino bull, Induna (nicknamed ‘Doon’ by the keepers), some apples. I also hand-fed lucerne to the on-display White Rhino bull, Umfana (‘Fana’ to the keepers) as well as patted him and touched his horn. During this experience, I had insightful conversations with both the Black and White Rhino keepers. Overall, I highly recommend the experience—it was incredibly rewarding, though I would have liked it to last a little longer. The behind-the-scenes aspect was just as enjoyable, as I was able to see off-display species such as Waterbuck and Bull Nyala en route to the rhinos.
Induna the South-Central Black Rhinoceros Bull
Patting Umfana the Southern White Rhinoceros Bull
Notable Sightings
Here are some observations from my visit, many of which may already be known but are worth mentioning:
- Six new Barbary Sheep lambs – encouraging to see this species still breeding successfully, given that several facilities have phased them out in recent years.
- I counted ten Red Deer in total, the Stag currently exhibits an impressive set of antlers
- The breeding bull Bison is named Colin (sire of six calves), while the breeding bull Eland is named Bruce. I found the simplicity of their names amusing and it is interesting that the cows do not necessarily have unique names.
- Three young Zebra now inhabit the secondary Black Rhino exhibit, formerly occupied by Sentwali. Any idea who these could be? As a few solitary Zebra still inhabit the exhibit adjacent to the waterhole?
- I counted fifteen Giraffes on display in the Waterhole exhibit (although my count may not be precise). My girlfriend wanted me to include that these were her favorite animals from our trip (potential Zoochater?!)
- Sixteen adolescent Ostrich chicks from two pairings I was told are mostly set to be transferred to other zoos. Watching them move as a large, dust-kicking flock was a highlight.
- I noticed a tranquilizer dart hanging from a Nyala cow, which was quite interesting—I assume this is a method of administering medication, though I wonder what it was for?
- Monarto still has its Bongo bull—apparently the most elusive animal in the park! The rhino keeper I spoke with has only seen him once in three years (though he does not work directly with Bongo). We passed his large, scrubby enclosure, but I, too, failed to spot him.
- The Hyena clan consists of seven individuals, as previously reported by @WhistlingKite24. It was fascinating to see them behaving as a cohesive, dynamic group. I also observed them bathing, which was a first for me!
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Fantastic review and such amazing photos Swanson, really awesome.
The outlines too you mapped out of the intended elephant and rhino habitat expansions ↓ are brilliant too man, really appreciate seeing. Definitely one of the best reviews have read and seen.
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Swanson02
Well-Known Member
Monarto Safari Park Visit – 30/01/2025
PART TWO
I visited Monarto today with seven key questions in mind. Below is all the information I gathered. Any speculation—whether mine or the keepers'—is marked with an (*).
I didn’t ask the questions exactly as listed below, as I didn’t want to overwhelm the keepers with complex or probing inquiries right away. Instead, I tried to gradually draw information from them. For privacy reasons, I have not included any keepers' names. That said, many still asked if I worked with animals or knew another keeper, to which I had to sheepishly reply, "No, I’m just a zoo nerd."
1. Confirmation of elephant breeding plans? Whether a Putra Mas x Pak Boon pairing is planned? If A.I. will be undertaken with Putra Mas if natural insemination fails?
2. White Rhinoceros breeding plans, if any cows are currently pregnant? Plans for expansion of white rhino enclosure. The current progression of the Australian Rhino project?
3. Black Rhinoceros breeding plans, whether Bahkita from TWPZ will be transferred to be paired with Monartos' remaining male Induna?
4. Are there any plans to import a bull hippopotamus? Hippopotamus breeding configuration and numbers?
Cheers for reading
Sorry for the two-part mega post! Hope you enjoy
PART TWO
I visited Monarto today with seven key questions in mind. Below is all the information I gathered. Any speculation—whether mine or the keepers'—is marked with an (*).
I didn’t ask the questions exactly as listed below, as I didn’t want to overwhelm the keepers with complex or probing inquiries right away. Instead, I tried to gradually draw information from them. For privacy reasons, I have not included any keepers' names. That said, many still asked if I worked with animals or knew another keeper, to which I had to sheepishly reply, "No, I’m just a zoo nerd."
1. Confirmation of elephant breeding plans? Whether a Putra Mas x Pak Boon pairing is planned? If A.I. will be undertaken with Putra Mas if natural insemination fails?
- I was unable to find an elephant keeper to speak with, as they were understandably busy managing Permai and Burma’s initial introduction. However, on my morning bus tour, I witnessed a large team meeting out in the exhibit space, involving all Monarto keepers, (former Auckland keepers) and Perth keepers. The meeting was headed by Andrew Coers, who kindly turned Burma for the bus to see. I assume they were discussing introduction plans (*).
- Later, I briefly glimpsed a large, dark swaying shape in the open barn, which I assume was Permai.
- As a result, all the elephant-related information I received came from secondary sources: a volunteer at the elephant exhibit and the Black Rhino keeper.
- The volunteer initially stated there would be "no breeding at this stage" (I assume she meant within the next year and a half (*)). However, she also mentioned that "Monarto would inevitably have calves." I'm unsure what she meant by that and tbh she seemed a little uninformed—she even forgot Pak Boon and Tang Mo’s names—which made me skeptical of her reliability. She also speculated "With the way the Australian population is going we could receive young elephants from another zoo" (*)
- Conversely, the Black Rhino keeper confirmed that Monarto intends to breed from Putra Mas. He stated that Monarto would attempt to breed him with both Pak Boon and Tang Mo: "They will, though, with the Taronga girls." The mention of Tang Mo was interesting—I suspect it was a misunderstanding (*), as he does not work directly with elephants and may not be aware of her previous health issues. That said, he did know her age and that she has a playful temperament, suggesting he has some level of familiarity.
- He also mentioned that a few rhino keepers from around the park are being trained and 'upgraded' to elephant keepers over the next few months, which I found interesting.
- When I asked about artificial insemination, he was unaware of any plans and asked how did I even know about that. He guessed that if natural breeding with Putra Mas and Pak Boon/Tang Mo failed, Monarto would likely transfer in another "young female" from elsewhere in Australia (*). However, he hadn’t heard anything about AI and thought it was "unlikely" (*).
- I found it interesting that both he and the volunteer mentioned bringing in young female elephants like they were dime a dozen right now! Likewise, there were no fears or mentions of Putra Mas' ability to naturally inseminate (he probably was unaware).
- Another fascinating detail: he mentioned unique interactions between Induna (the black rhino) and Burma, noting that they had been sniffing the air and even vocalizing to each other. Since both species are in eyesight, Monarto plans to build an interactive enrichment fence between the back of the elephant barn and the Black Rhino exhibit, allowing face-to-face encounters. Dung swapping is also planned for enrichment purposes.
2. White Rhinoceros breeding plans, if any cows are currently pregnant? Plans for expansion of white rhino enclosure. The current progression of the Australian Rhino project?
- While visiting the white rhino section, I spoke with a keeper handling Umfana. He explained that Monarto’s white rhinos are split into two groups. The group he manages is on public display and is entirely retired from the breeding program.
- The decision to retire them was made for welfare reasons after a long discussion among keepers. Umfana was retired due to his aggression during mating, as he had injured multiple cows, leaving them with cuts and pressure sores. Umqali was retired due to a genetic condition that has caused a form of hemophilia in all her offspring.
- The keeper also humorously mentioned that Umfana is slightly overweight and could stand to lose roughly 150kg (sitting at 2350kg currently). He'd like to see more "pelvic and backbone definition'
- 1.0 Umfana (Wild x Wild) ~1994, Kruger National Park, South Africa
- 0.1 Umqali (Wild x Wild) ~1994, Kruger National Park, South Africa
- 0.1 Uhura (Hatari x Shova) 26-05-1996, Singapore Zoo
- However, Monarto is actively trying to breed their second group, housed in Wild Africa. The last witnessed mating occurred a month ago, and the keeper believes one of the cows may already be pregnant (*).
- 1.0 Ibutho (Cyrano x Utani) 16-08-1999, Orana Wildlife Park
- 0.1 Savannah (Kruger x Caballe) 12-04-2011, Australia Zoo
- 0.1 Carrie (DJ x Inyeti) 04-12-2018, Australia Zoo
- When I inquired about the Australian Rhino Project, he laughed and said it was "on hold"—though even he didn’t know what that actually meant. He believes any rhinos from South Africa would be beneficial, considering Monarto built a whole facility that is now in mothballs. He was frustrated and showed a bit of anger toward New Zealand’s quarantine facility, saying they "couldn’t get their act together"—I assume he was referring to Orana Wildlife Park.
3. Black Rhinoceros breeding plans, whether Bahkita from TWPZ will be transferred to be paired with Monartos' remaining male Induna?
- I received confirmation that a TWPZ cow will be paired with Induna at Monarto for breeding. The cow is unconfirmed as of yet, I mentioned Bahkita but was told "It might not be her"
- The transfer will likely occur after the elephant complex is completed (*). The keeper pointed to a large pile of unused fencing materials and explained that Monarto wants three holding areas as a contingency if they need to house a male calf. Currently, they only have two (one of which is occupied by three young Plains Zebra). However, the existing setup is already designed for black rhino breeding.
4. Are there any plans to import a bull hippopotamus? Hippopotamus breeding configuration and numbers?
- I didn’t have access to a hippo keeper, so I asked the white rhino keeper instead. He was unaware of any plans to import a bull hippo and speculated (*) that there were none.
- However, he did know that breeding was the ultimate goal for Monarto’s mother-daughter pair. He couldn’t provide a holding capacity estimate but guessed around 4–6 animals (*).
- The chimpanzee keeper I spoke to had no updates on the future baboon exhibit’s location. She reiterated that the park’s current priority is the elephant complex and Wild Africa.
- She speculated (*) that Wild Africa was the most likely location for the baboons, which disappointed me, as I’d prefer them on public display on a large rocky outcrop near the new entrance rather than behind a paywall.
- Again, I was repeatedly told that Monarto’s focus is on completing the elephant complex and Wild Africa.
- The only "new" species mentioned was baboons, but I received no details on their placement or group size.
- I spoke with a nice keeper after the Chimpanzee talk, which I believe, is the best free talk at the park. The chimps were highly active during the talk and Boyd and Gombe (father-son) had a disagreement that involved posturing and ultimately a small physical fight. The keeper noted that Gombe has fought back against his father a lot more recently. Boyd the old boy is noticeably slower poor fella. Albeit, personally, Boyd seemed to me to be the interim alpha/front runner for the alpha position, doing the most posturing and vocalizing across the 3-quarters of an hour I observed the troop (*). She also noted that Gombe in her opinion is the smartest in the group and completes training at an incredible speed. She did state that she wished Enzi was old enough to compete for the alpha position as she believed he'd make an amazing alpha (*). Enzi is noticeably the biggest in the troop now and has a long dark coating of hair. Likewise, it was also funny seeing his mother Zombi being called a male by other visitors due to her size and muscle definition.
- The troop is also currently separated due to Sandali suffering an ankle injury and requiring surgery, he is currently paired with Lani the most amiable member of the troop for the company. I wasn't told how he suffered the injury but I assume it would be due to the troop's ongoing power struggles (*).
- I was told no females are currently pregnant and that all are currently on contraceptives. However, the keeper believed Galatea would definitely receive another recommendation for breeding soon (*) as she is highly maternal and that Lani will receive her first recommendation in 3-4 years (*)
- She also informed me that Zuri, Zola, and Hope are all potential for transfer. Zola and Hope are guaranteed to transfer out together. The last time I visited a New Zealand Zoo was mentioned (by a different older keeper), however, no specific zoo/destination was mentioned this time. (odd?)
- Space-wise I was informed that the troop has room for a "decade of continued breeding" (odd she gave me a timeframe rather than a number). However the chimp team dreams of expanding the habitat out into the surrounding scrub and apparently this is on the official park plans in the far far future (*). She joked she wanted a huge naturalistic troop larger than Tarongas. Monarto seem to really pride themselves on the fact of having the 'biggest' and 'most' when it comes to animals/enclosures.
Cheers for reading
Sorry for the two-part mega post! Hope you enjoy
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First of all @Swanson02, a massive thanks for taking the time to source answers to our many questions. We greatly appreciate it and the detailed answers.
I’ll reply to the elephant section of your reply in the elephant population thread.
That’s very unfortunate.
There was a clear pattern in the losses of Umqali’s offspring:
2018 - Tundu died at 18 months
2019 - Imani died at 11 months
2021 - Eshe died at 15 months
Two died of trauma (internal bleeding); while the other died of blood clotting issues (blood clotting is important in preventing blood loss following trauma).
It’s interesting to know her offspring had haemophilia, with the age clearly significant. It’s around the age of weaning, when the mother could have been pushing them away; as well as the calves becoming more independent of their mother and interacting more with the wider herd (receiving knocks and bumps in the process). A bull also wouldn’t hesitate to knock them out of the way if attempting to mate with their mother - which ordinarily wouldn’t be an issue for a normal robust calf.
I’m inclined to believe the first cow to give birth will be Carrie (2018), rather than Savannah (2011). This seems to be a pattern in Australasian zoos holding trios of white rhinos, where the younger female conceives/gives birth at a young age (7-8 years) and then the older female fails to conceive - with estrus suppression then theorised as the younger cow becomes more dominant (she has a calf to protect).
Ironically, Savannah’s mother was one of the aforementioned cows and was a prolific breeder - but despite this, has no grandchildren to date. Hopefully the Monarto facilities will help offset estrus suppression.
The recent transfer of Sentwali to Dubbo suggests an intention to breed him with Kufara (who last gave birth 2023); while Mesi (who has a five month old calf), could transfer to Monarto once her calf is independent of her.
Werribee are importing a bull, so a male calf from their pod could then be transferred to Monarto for breeding. Husbandry guidelines recommend bulls are at least five years old before they’re introduced for breeding, so it could be a while given Werribee’s bull is scheduled to arrive later this year at the earliest.
While alpha’s have emerged at similar ages to Enzi (2015) in the absence of adult competition, I’ve noticed a similar trend in Taronga’s troop where the adolescent males (2013-2014) are only just starting to enter the hierarchy now, with the eldest making significant inroads. Enzi has only recently turned nine; but as the youngest male by 19 years (and the son of the alpha female) is a sure bet for securing the alpha position in the coming years. His time will come.
Sandali seems to suffer a lot of join injuries! Seems to come with the territory with displaying etc. and scuffles with the other males. That’s good he has Lani with companionship. She may have also been chosen for hierarchy reasons - as removing a chimpanzee from the community can decrease its status (not such an issue when you’re already a low ranking female).
Hope is the daughter of Tsotsi; and Zola is widely speculated to have been sired by him too. Hamilton Zoo’s females are Sanda (sister of Tsotsi) and her two daughters, so it would be undesirable to have a future breeding male breeding with four females from the same line. Similarly, the incumbent breeding males (while unrelated to Hope; and potentially Zola) already have a line going with the Peter/Fimi line via their daughter Sanda. Nothing has been decided, but with Sanda at Hamilton anticipated to breed in the near future, her failure to do so could well solidify a decision to retain her daughters long term - with the plan being to bring in a new female once their father/uncle pass on.
I’ll reply to the elephant section of your reply in the elephant population thread.
That’s very unfortunate.
There was a clear pattern in the losses of Umqali’s offspring:
2018 - Tundu died at 18 months
2019 - Imani died at 11 months
2021 - Eshe died at 15 months
Two died of trauma (internal bleeding); while the other died of blood clotting issues (blood clotting is important in preventing blood loss following trauma).
It’s interesting to know her offspring had haemophilia, with the age clearly significant. It’s around the age of weaning, when the mother could have been pushing them away; as well as the calves becoming more independent of their mother and interacting more with the wider herd (receiving knocks and bumps in the process). A bull also wouldn’t hesitate to knock them out of the way if attempting to mate with their mother - which ordinarily wouldn’t be an issue for a normal robust calf.
That’s fantastic news. It’s nice to see Ibutho (New Zealand’s first white rhino calf) finally get a chance to breed after nearly two decades of fulfilling the role of stimulant bull. Previously his genetic representation went against him (his mother was from the prolific San Diego herd).
I’m inclined to believe the first cow to give birth will be Carrie (2018), rather than Savannah (2011). This seems to be a pattern in Australasian zoos holding trios of white rhinos, where the younger female conceives/gives birth at a young age (7-8 years) and then the older female fails to conceive - with estrus suppression then theorised as the younger cow becomes more dominant (she has a calf to protect).
Ironically, Savannah’s mother was one of the aforementioned cows and was a prolific breeder - but despite this, has no grandchildren to date. Hopefully the Monarto facilities will help offset estrus suppression.
It it’s not Bakhita (2002), it would likely be Mesi (2017); as the third cow Kufara (2010) is a half-sister of Induna. Mesi is a more distant relation.
The recent transfer of Sentwali to Dubbo suggests an intention to breed him with Kufara (who last gave birth 2023); while Mesi (who has a five month old calf), could transfer to Monarto once her calf is independent of her.
That makes sense as if all three Common hippopotamus holders imported bulls, there would be zero demand for the resulting (male) offspring bar the slim chance a fourth holder will emerge.
Werribee are importing a bull, so a male calf from their pod could then be transferred to Monarto for breeding. Husbandry guidelines recommend bulls are at least five years old before they’re introduced for breeding, so it could be a while given Werribee’s bull is scheduled to arrive later this year at the earliest.
Regarding the chimpanzee troop, Boyd has always been a very politically ambitious male. He was the alpha of Wellington’s troop for many years, with his emigration to New Zealand in part due to his resentment of his younger brother overthrowing him as alpha. He initially emerged as the alpha of Monarto’s troop due to Tsotsi’s inexperience; but once the females were integrated, they showed a strong support for Tsotsi, leading to him assuming the alpha role.
While alpha’s have emerged at similar ages to Enzi (2015) in the absence of adult competition, I’ve noticed a similar trend in Taronga’s troop where the adolescent males (2013-2014) are only just starting to enter the hierarchy now, with the eldest making significant inroads. Enzi has only recently turned nine; but as the youngest male by 19 years (and the son of the alpha female) is a sure bet for securing the alpha position in the coming years. His time will come.
Sandali seems to suffer a lot of join injuries! Seems to come with the territory with displaying etc. and scuffles with the other males. That’s good he has Lani with companionship. She may have also been chosen for hierarchy reasons - as removing a chimpanzee from the community can decrease its status (not such an issue when you’re already a low ranking female).
Wellington Zoo will require more female chimpanzees long term. Their three oldest females are likely retired from breeding; and one of their prime aged females is on contraception for medical reasons, leaving an adolescent female as the only breeding female for the foreseeable.
Hope is the daughter of Tsotsi; and Zola is widely speculated to have been sired by him too. Hamilton Zoo’s females are Sanda (sister of Tsotsi) and her two daughters, so it would be undesirable to have a future breeding male breeding with four females from the same line. Similarly, the incumbent breeding males (while unrelated to Hope; and potentially Zola) already have a line going with the Peter/Fimi line via their daughter Sanda. Nothing has been decided, but with Sanda at Hamilton anticipated to breed in the near future, her failure to do so could well solidify a decision to retain her daughters long term - with the plan being to bring in a new female once their father/uncle pass on.
Appreciate the in depth update @Swanson02
I'd imagine this may be a new group of bachelor males if the previous trio are still down at the Waterhole. Monarto has had great success breeding their zebras in Wild Africa lately so I wouldn't be surprised if they've had to separate out a few males by now.
I think you would be spot on with that guess - I've seen this done at Werribee too with their antelope. The dart isn't intended to be left in for too long but I'd imagine at times it may not be as easy to get the dart back out! Most of the time they fall out and keepers collect them later on but that isn't always the case.
At the moment there isn't really any 'young female/s' available. The only possibility is Thong Dee at Dubbo. In the event Pak Boon doesn't conceive and they don't intend to AI her, sending Thong Dee across would be a good enough reason to allow her to conceive again, at least once. However it's important to remember Thong Dee's situation is just as critical as Pak Boon's. She needs to conceive now if they want her to conceive again and they can't afford to wait and see with Pak Boon. So a decision would have to be made on this now.
Really good news to hear! Hopefully the new designated breeding complex in Wild Africa will help; especially as it's not located next to the former, on display rhino complex where the other individuals are. This would hopefully minimise estrus suppression. Carrie especially is a valuable female.
An excellent and very detailed review perhaps the best ever on ZC!Monarto Safari Park Visit – 30/01/2025
PART TWO
I visited Monarto today with seven key questions in mind. Below is all the information I gathered. Any speculation—whether mine or the keepers'—is marked with an (*).
I didn’t ask the questions exactly as listed below, as I didn’t want to overwhelm the keepers with complex or probing inquiries right away. Instead, I tried to gradually draw information from them. For privacy reasons, I have not included any keepers' names. That said, many still asked if I worked with animals or knew another keeper, to which I had to sheepishly reply, "No, I’m just a zoo nerd."
1. Confirmation of elephant breeding plans? Whether a Putra Mas x Pak Boon pairing is planned? If A.I. will be undertaken with Putra Mas if natural insemination fails?
Burma alongside keeper team meeting -
- I was unable to find an elephant keeper to speak with, as they were understandably busy managing Permai and Burma’s initial introduction. However, on my morning bus tour, I witnessed a large team meeting out in the exhibit space, involving all Monarto keepers, (former Auckland keepers) and Perth keepers. The meeting was headed by Andrew Coers, who kindly turned Burma for the bus to see. I assume they were discussing introduction plans (*).
- Later, I briefly glimpsed a large, dark swaying shape in the open barn, which I assume was Permai.
- As a result, all the elephant-related information I received came from secondary sources: a volunteer at the elephant exhibit and the Black Rhino keeper.
- The volunteer initially stated there would be "no breeding at this stage" (I assume she meant within the next year and a half (*)). However, she also mentioned that "Monarto would inevitably have calves." I'm unsure what she meant by that and tbh she seemed a little uninformed—she even forgot Pak Boon and Tang Mo’s names—which made me skeptical of her reliability. She also speculated "With the way the Australian population is going we could receive young elephants from another zoo" (*)
- Conversely, the Black Rhino keeper confirmed that Monarto intends to breed from Putra Mas. He stated that Monarto would attempt to breed him with both Pak Boon and Tang Mo: "They will, though, with the Taronga girls." The mention of Tang Mo was interesting—I suspect it was a misunderstanding (*), as he does not work directly with elephants and may not be aware of her previous health issues. That said, he did know her age and that she has a playful temperament, suggesting he has some level of familiarity.
- He also mentioned that a few rhino keepers from around the park are being trained and 'upgraded' to elephant keepers over the next few months, which I found interesting.
- When I asked about artificial insemination, he was unaware of any plans and asked how did I even know about that. He guessed that if natural breeding with Putra Mas and Pak Boon/Tang Mo failed, Monarto would likely transfer in another "young female" from elsewhere in Australia (*). However, he hadn’t heard anything about AI and thought it was "unlikely" (*).
- I found it interesting that both he and the volunteer mentioned bringing in young female elephants like they were dime a dozen right now! Likewise, there were no fears or mentions of Putra Mas' ability to naturally inseminate (he probably was unaware).
- Another fascinating detail: he mentioned unique interactions between Induna (the black rhino) and Burma, noting that they had been sniffing the air and even vocalizing to each other. Since both species are in eyesight, Monarto plans to build an interactive enrichment fence between the back of the elephant barn and the Black Rhino exhibit, allowing face-to-face encounters. Dung swapping is also planned for enrichment purposes.
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2. White Rhinoceros breeding plans, if any cows are currently pregnant? Plans for expansion of white rhino enclosure. The current progression of the Australian Rhino project?
Public Display Group (Retired from Breeding)
- While visiting the white rhino section, I spoke with a keeper handling Umfana. He explained that Monarto’s white rhinos are split into two groups. The group he manages is on public display and is entirely retired from the breeding program.
- The decision to retire them was made for welfare reasons after a long discussion among keepers. Umfana was retired due to his aggression during mating, as he had injured multiple cows, leaving them with cuts and pressure sores. Umqali was retired due to a genetic condition that has caused a form of hemophilia in all her offspring.
- The keeper also humorously mentioned that Umfana is slightly overweight and could stand to lose roughly 150kg (sitting at 2350kg currently). He'd like to see more "pelvic and backbone definition'
Wild Africa Breeding Group
- 1.0 Umfana (Wild x Wild) ~1994, Kruger National Park, South Africa
- 0.1 Umqali (Wild x Wild) ~1994, Kruger National Park, South Africa
- 0.1 Uhura (Hatari x Shova) 26-05-1996, Singapore Zoo
- However, Monarto is actively trying to breed their second group, housed in Wild Africa. The last witnessed mating occurred a month ago, and the keeper believes one of the cows may already be pregnant (*).
- 1.0 Ibutho (Cyrano x Utani) 16-08-1999, Orana Wildlife Park
- 0.1 Savannah (Kruger x Caballe) 12-04-2011, Australia Zoo
- 0.1 Carrie (DJ x Inyeti) 04-12-2018, Australia Zoo
Umfana out on display -
- When I inquired about the Australian Rhino Project, he laughed and said it was "on hold"—though even he didn’t know what that actually meant. He believes any rhinos from South Africa would be beneficial, considering Monarto built a whole facility that is now in mothballs. He was frustrated and showed a bit of anger toward New Zealand’s quarantine facility, saying they "couldn’t get their act together"—I assume he was referring to Orana Wildlife Park.
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3. Black Rhinoceros breeding plans, whether Bahkita from TWPZ will be transferred to be paired with Monartos' remaining male Induna?
Schematic of Current Black Rhino/Elephant complex and future plans I was informed of -
- I received confirmation that a TWPZ cow will be paired with Induna at Monarto for breeding. The cow is unconfirmed as of yet, I mentioned Bahkita but was told "It might not be her"
- The transfer will likely occur after the elephant complex is completed (*). The keeper pointed to a large pile of unused fencing materials and explained that Monarto wants three holding areas as a contingency if they need to house a male calf. Currently, they only have two (one of which is occupied by three young Plains Zebra). However, the existing setup is already designed for black rhino breeding.
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4. Are there any plans to import a bull hippopotamus? Hippopotamus breeding configuration and numbers?
5. Plans for the Hamadryas Baboon enclosure?
- I didn’t have access to a hippo keeper, so I asked the white rhino keeper instead. He was unaware of any plans to import a bull hippo and speculated (*) that there were none.
- However, he did know that breeding was the ultimate goal for Monarto’s mother-daughter pair. He couldn’t provide a holding capacity estimate but guessed around 4–6 animals (*).
6. Future Park Plans & New Species
- The chimpanzee keeper I spoke to had no updates on the future baboon exhibit’s location. She reiterated that the park’s current priority is the elephant complex and Wild Africa.
- She speculated (*) that Wild Africa was the most likely location for the baboons, which disappointed me, as I’d prefer them on public display on a large rocky outcrop near the new entrance rather than behind a paywall.
7. Chimpanzee Updates? Are any chimps currently pregnant? Transferral of adolescent females?
- Again, I was repeatedly told that Monarto’s focus is on completing the elephant complex and Wild Africa.
- The only "new" species mentioned was baboons, but I received no details on their placement or group size.
Monarto troop interacting during keeper talk -
- I spoke with a nice keeper after the Chimpanzee talk, which I believe, is the best free talk at the park. The chimps were highly active during the talk and Boyd and Gombe (father-son) had a disagreement that involved posturing and ultimately a small physical fight. The keeper noted that Gombe has fought back against his father a lot more recently. Boyd the old boy is noticeably slower poor fella. Albeit, personally, Boyd seemed to me to be the interim alpha/front runner for the alpha position, doing the most posturing and vocalizing across the 3-quarters of an hour I observed the troop (*). She also noted that Gombe in her opinion is the smartest in the group and completes training at an incredible speed. She did state that she wished Enzi was old enough to compete for the alpha position as she believed he'd make an amazing alpha (*). Enzi is noticeably the biggest in the troop now and has a long dark coating of hair. Likewise, it was also funny seeing his mother Zombi being called a male by other visitors due to her size and muscle definition.
- The troop is also currently separated due to Sandali suffering an ankle injury and requiring surgery, he is currently paired with Lani the most amiable member of the troop for the company. I wasn't told how he suffered the injury but I assume it would be due to the troop's ongoing power struggles (*).
- I was told no females are currently pregnant and that all are currently on contraceptives. However, the keeper believed Galatea would definitely receive another recommendation for breeding soon (*) as she is highly maternal and that Lani will receive her first recommendation in 3-4 years (*)
- She also informed me that Zuri, Zola, and Hope are all potential for transfer. Zola and Hope are guaranteed to transfer out together. The last time I visited a New Zealand Zoo was mentioned (by a different older keeper), however, no specific zoo/destination was mentioned this time. (odd?)
- Space-wise I was informed that the troop has room for a "decade of continued breeding" (odd she gave me a timeframe rather than a number). However the chimp team dreams of expanding the habitat out into the surrounding scrub and apparently this is on the official park plans in the far far future (*). She joked she wanted a huge naturalistic troop larger than Tarongas. Monarto seem to really pride themselves on the fact of having the 'biggest' and 'most' when it comes to animals/enclosures.
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Cheers for reading
Sorry for the two-part mega post! Hope you enjoy
I’ve seen this done at Dubbo and Werribee. Due to the size of the animal involved, they usually carry out the procedure where they fall.
It was noted with some herd animals like Plains zebra and Przewalski’s horse, that they have to work quickly to isolate the drowsy animal before it’s herd mates attack it (a natural instinct to drive away sick herd mates that might attract a predator). I imagine this would apply to nyala too as Hamilton Zoo currently have one of their three bulls seperate from the other two - his hoof injury causes him to limp (and the others to react aggressively towards him).
Monarto Safari Resort Opening May 28:
There’s a link to more information here. It’s a lot more affordable than I thought it would be. It’s good to see this experience will be accessible to a large number of people.
Monarto Safari Resort
News via email:
We are so excited to announce that the highly anticipated Monarto Safari Resort will officially open its doors on Wednesday, 28 May 2025!
Nestled in the heart of the Wild Africa precinct, the resort offers 78 beautifully designed guest rooms and 20 luxury safari tents with breathtaking views of the Mallee Plains. Managed by Journey Beyond, this luxurious escape is set to become South Australia’s newest must-visit destination.
Bookings open 3 February 2025.
There’s a link to more information here. It’s a lot more affordable than I thought it would be. It’s good to see this experience will be accessible to a large number of people.
Monarto Safari Resort
News via email:
We are so excited to announce that the highly anticipated Monarto Safari Resort will officially open its doors on Wednesday, 28 May 2025!
Nestled in the heart of the Wild Africa precinct, the resort offers 78 beautifully designed guest rooms and 20 luxury safari tents with breathtaking views of the Mallee Plains. Managed by Journey Beyond, this luxurious escape is set to become South Australia’s newest must-visit destination.
Bookings open 3 February 2025.
Yes, all this 'embracing' at first sight does not necessarily mean they will be close at all. They are testing each other out. At Blackpool Zoo in UK their old female Kate similarly greeted the first arriving females from Twycross after having been alone for some long time since the other previous elephants died. But she is, I believe, a tolerated outsider in their group rather than anything else.