Inauguration of our fine Desert House

25 June 2015

The new desert house at Parken Zoo has now been inaugurated and is open to the public. The desert house is home to three different African desert-dwelling species: meerkats, sand cats, and spurred tortoises. Everything is themed to mimic the animals' natural habitats. Here, visitors can get even closer to the animals, for example by trying out being a meerkat.

”We've taken the park's theme Play and learn ”a further step and allows visitors to get even closer to the animals,” says Lennart Sundén, Acting CEO of Parken Zoo Eskilstuna. ”Thanks to our imitation of the animals' natural habitats, not only do the animals get an exciting environment to live in. As a visitor, you can also get a feel for what it's like to be a meerkat by crawling through a tunnel. An exciting experience for the whole family.".

Earlier this spring, construction began on the new desert house, a new enclosure for three African desert-dwelling species: meerkats, sand cats, and radiated tortoises. An exciting house that further brings Parken Zoo to life and allows visitors to be a part of the animals' lives up close. Adjacent to each animal enclosure, there are outdoor facilities and a playground, all in line with the park's theme. Play and learn. Inside the desert house, there are also views of Sumatran tigers and Asian wild dogs.

Sand Cat and Radiated Tortoise facts

  • The sand cat is classified as Near Threatened and has characteristic desert features with sandy-coloured fur, large ears and fur on its paw pads.
  • The sand cat, like the radiated tortoise, is included in the European Association's conservation breeding programme for endangered species.
  • The radiated tortoise has a very special shell with a dark base and yellow stripes that radiate down the length of the shell.
  • It is classified as critically endangered and is extremely hard hit by illegal trade, where it is caught and sold for both its shell and meat.