SANTA cut short his time off to officially open Dudley Zoo and Castle’s new £200K Reindeer Ravine.
The zoo’s revamp project, which has taken four months to complete, has seen the Bear Ravine paddock transformed to accommodate the attraction’s herd of 12 reindeer – including its five 2024 calves, Koda, Flynn, Flora, Robin and Sven.
The build has included Nordic-inspired animal dens and a hardstand area for the ungulate species, plus outdoor shelters and a large gravelled paddock, allowing for plenty of visitor viewing areas.
The new habitat also takes in the sweeping grassed space of the iconic former Bear Ravine Tecton, which has been opened up for visitors to get a view of the herd and lower zoo from above.
Santa, wearing in his summer attire, helped ‘cut the ribbon’ alongside zoo director Derek Grove.
Santa and zoo director Derek Grove at Dudley Zoo and Castle's new Reindeer Ravine (Image: Dudley Zoo and Castle)
Derek said: “We are delighted to have been able to create a new home for our reindeer and at the same time bring the former Bear Ravine back to life following the completion of the concrete restoration programme.
“With the Tecton terracing being opened to visitors it provides views from various vantage points, just as it was intended when it was first constructed in the 1930s.
“And we thank Santa for taking time of out of his busy schedule to come and check on his herd.”
Santa’s grotto will open from November 30 until Christmas Eve, with tickets now available on the zoo’s website.
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