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The Irish Sun
08-05-2025
- General
- The Irish Sun
Dublin Zoo bosses draft in specialist team after visitor makes ‘genuinely grim' discovery in major pest control alert
DUBLIN Zoo bosses have urged the public to report any sightings of rodents, as they are working with specialists to 'manage pest control'. A visitor complained to zoo staff that it was 'overrun with rats' last weekend, according to the 2 A visitor complained about Dublin Zoo being 'overrun with rats' Credit: Getty They said: 'It was really shocking. Myself and two kids counted seven running very close to us at different times, I nearly stepped on one, it was genuinely grim. 'We can't be the only ones who noticed. It must be a health hazard for humans and Dublin Zoo chiefs urged they follow the 'stringent codes of practice, as laid down by European and Global Associations'. A spokesperson said: 'Our dedicated teams work consistently hard to uphold these high standards for both our visitors and animals. READ MORE ON TRAVEL 'Outdoor attractions such as 'As an outdoor facility located in a large public park, Dublin Zoo has protocols in place to monitor and manage pest control within the perimeter of the site, excluding any surrounding areas where these practices may differ.' The spokesperson said: 'We are working with a team of specialists to manage pest control and have engaged with them regarding the recent sightings. Most read in News Travel 'If visitors observe anything of concern, Dublin Zoo asks that they inform a member of management during their visit.' A guest also reported seeing 'too many rats scurrying around' last June. How Insta-friendly island is descending into a 'rat-infested disaster zone' She said: 'The zoo itself is lovely but the amount of rats running around was petrifying. As we were having our picnic one just scurried past my foot. 'We thought maybe it was because there was food around, but no as we walked around we saw about three more.' Separately, an expert has revealed a simple and inexpensive way to help keep This method could save you from trialling and testing various shop-bought products, as pest control specialists say the treatment is 'highly effective.' First, ensure your garden is tidy and move your bins as far away as possible, as rats are often drawn to scavenging through them. Experts recommend sealing rubbish bins, properly containing compost, and cleaning up any spilt food. Professionals from Dan's Carpet Care also suggest using a natural repellent, such as peppermint oil, which they believe 'works the best' due to its 'powerful essential oil' properties. It's safe to use around humans and pets while being 'highly effective against rats and mice.' To use peppermint oil, mix equal parts of oil and water in a spray bottle and apply it around your garden. 2 Guests should to report 'anything of concern' to staff Credit: Getty
The Irish Sun
25-04-2025
- General
- The Irish Sun
Dublin Zoo reveal birth of new chicks & tell all about ‘house-proud' birds on World Penguin Day
DUBLIN Zoo is celebrating World Penguin Day today. Here, Team Leader at Advertisement 3 Eddie O'Brien looks after the penguins at Dublin Zoo Credit: Barry Mulvey - The Sun Dublin 3 The penguins are very popular with visitors Credit: Crispin Rodwell - The Sun Dublin EVERY year on 25 April, World Penguin Day offers a special opportunity to celebrate one of nature's most resilient and captivating birds. While often associated with the icy expanses of Antarctica, penguins are a diverse group that inhabit a wide range of environments, from frozen tundras to temperate coastlines. At Native to the rugged, nutrient-rich coastal regions of Peru and Chile, these birds are built for survival in surprisingly warm climates. Advertisement READ MORE IN NEWS Yet despite their adaptability, Humboldt penguins face increasing threats in the wild. Of the world's 17 penguin species, many are experiencing population declines. The Humboldt penguins are no exception. Classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List, their wild population is estimated at just 23,800 individuals. Their habitats are under pressure from industrial fishing, pollution, climate change, and coastal development, all of which disrupt the delicate balance of their ecosystem. Advertisement Most read in Irish News Exclusive At Dublin Zoo, conservation isn't just a goal; it's at the heart of everything we do. Everyone can see the toucans - but you have high IQ if you spot the penguin Our colony of Humboldt penguins, known in Irish as Piongain Pheiriúch, play a vital role in our education and awareness efforts. Through immersive habitats, expert veterinary care, and engaging public programmes, we aim to connect visitors to the wider conservation story behind these birds. Of the nineteen Humboldt penguins here at Dublin Zoo, no two are the same in personality or appearance. Advertisement Each penguin sports a unique pattern of black chest spots, making them individually recognisable to our animal care team. The Humboldt penguins also have their own unique personalities. Some are shy and quiet, while others are a bit cheekier, often seen pecking at the keepers' legs just for fun. Then there are the more outgoing types, like Kelly, the oldest penguin in the colony. Advertisement When Kelly decides it's time for a dip in the pond, the others are often quick to follow! What sets Humboldt penguins apart isn't just their geographic range, it's their extraordinary adaptations. They rely on the cold, nutrient-rich Humboldt Current to provide a steady supply of fish. Their barbed tongues help grip slippery prey, and their specialized nasal glands allow them to process saltwater. Advertisement To regulate body temperature, they flush pink around their beaks — a built-in cooling system that visitors can often spot on warmer days. These birds are social and monogamous by nature, often returning to the same mates and nesting spots each season. The Humboldt penguins here at They are extremely particular when it comes to setting up their nesting sites and dwelling areas, often spending plenty of time before breeding season carefully selecting and gathering materials to build their nests. Advertisement Once nesting begins, both parents take turns incubating the eggs, sharing the responsibility equally. There are currently two penguin chicks at Dublin Zoo; our first chick of 2025 hatched last week to proud parents Patrick and Houdini. Houdini got her name thanks to her knack for escaping her former habitat. She was transferred to Dublin Zoo in 2004, paired with Patrick, and the two have formed a very strong bond. Advertisement The team are also looking forward to another penguin chick (or chicks) in the near future, with breeding pair Belle and Cube currently incubating their eggs, which are due to hatch at the beginning of May. Beyond the zoo grounds, Dublin Zoo is proud to support field conservation through our ongoing partnership with Sphenisco, an international organisation working to protect Humboldt penguins in their native habitats. This partnership contributes to initiatives like regulating fishing zones, safeguarding breeding sites, and monitoring wild populations. All essential for reversing the species' decline. On World Penguin Day, Dublin Zoo invites all visitors to delve deeper into the story of these extraordinary birds. Advertisement Whether observing them near Sea Lion Cove, attending a keeper talk, or joining a penguin-themed educational activity, guests are encouraged to see beyond the novelty and connect with the broader message of marine conservation. Humboldt penguins are not just survivors, they are indicators of ocean health, sentinels of change, and ambassadors for marine ecosystems under threat. Through continued education, conservation, and collaboration, we hope to ensure that these remarkable birds remain a vibrant part of our planet's biodiversity. 3 Today is World Penguin Day Credit: Barry Mulvey - The Sun Dublin Advertisement
The Irish Sun
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
‘We loved visiting her' – Dublin Zoo confirm ‘cherished' Orangutan, 44, has died as tributes pour for ‘quirky matriarch'
DUBLIN Zoo has announced the sad passing of a "cherished" 44-year-old Orangutan matriarch. Bornean primate Leonie arrived at Advertisement But after more than 40 years in the enclosure, the gentle giant passed away today. Dublin Zoo has not confirmed a cause of death for the "gentle soul" and "guiding matriarch" who "touched the hearts of everyone who met her". Dublin Zoo team leader Ciarán McMahon, who first met Leonie in 1995 as a young zookeeper, told how it's "hard to put into words" what Leonie meant to people at the zoo. He said: "Leonie and her mate Sibu arrived from Advertisement Read more in News "I had the privilege of watching her grow from a young adolescent into an extraordinary mother. "She was incredibly intelligent, gentle, and wise. "While she was loving towards all our keepers, she was known for having a soft spot for the male staff – a bit of a flirt, we used to say! "Her level of comprehension was astonishing. She would calmly observe the team and often mimic our behaviour. Advertisement MOST READ ON THE IRISH SUN "Orangutans are known for this, but Leonie's abilities were exceptional." Dublin Zoo Mourns Beloved Animals And the zookeeper told how Leonie's nurturing nature was just s impressive. He said: "She mothered not only her own young but helped raise others in the troop with immense care and patience. "She brought a sense of calm, comfort and quiet strength to the group. Advertisement "One moment that stays with me is how she instinctively stepped in to care for a young Mujur, when she needed a surrogate mother. Their bond remained incredibly strong ever since." FAMOUS FRINGE Ciarán described Leonie as a character, "calm, confident and adored by visitors and keepers alike". He added: "And then there was her famous fringe. "Every morning, she would sit and groom it with the utmost care before she went about her day – a little ritual that made everyone love her even more." Advertisement Heartbroken visitors to the zoo rushed to the comments to share happy memories of the Orangutan. FOND MEMORIES One person said: "Beautiful Leonie, she will be missed by all her visitors.I remember bringing my own children when they were small. A privilege and a pleasure to visit her. 'To all staff and especially Leonie's keepers & carers sending heartfelt condolences." Someone else commented: "Aw I'm so sorry, she was beautiful. We loved visiting her in December. Swing free." Advertisement A third put in: "Thinking of you all Dublin Zoo , a beautiful animal grown up with my kids we enjoyed together on many a visit . . rest in peace beautiful girl." A fourth penned: "So sorry to hear, rest in peace Leonie, precious memories through the years seeing you." 1 Bornean orangutan Leonie was 44 years old Credit: dublinzoo
