Taronga Conservation Society’s ‘virtual zoo’ proves an online success

Having been faced with indefinite closure when the Coronavirus lockdown commenced in March, Sydney’s Taronga Zoo launched Taronga TV - a ‘virtual zoo’ complete with regular keeper talks, shows and behind-the-scene insights into the lives of its animals.

Explaining the move, which sought to maintain engagement with its visitors, Taronga Conservation Society Chief Executive, Cameron Kerr told North Shore Living “while we weren’t able to welcome guests on site, we brought the zoo into homes across Australia and the globe, engaging and inspiring the community during this difficult time.”

The wildlife attraction provided an insight into what goes on after hours, with 24/7 live streams of its Sumatran tigers, Asian elephants, seals, meerkats, and Asian small-clawed otters.

Viewers gained a deeper understanding of the bonds between keepers and animals and witnessed firsthand the Zoo’s conservation work, which safeguards the existence of many of Australia’s endangered species.

This included revealing the critical care work that occurs at Taronga’s two wildlife hospitals and even watching the release of a green sea turtle into the wild.

Alongside its daily videos on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and its website, Taronga also helped local parents by delivering a range of educational resources to keep kids engaged at home.

Kerr advised “each week we’ve been reaching more than 3 million people with this content and we will continue to reach people this way.

“Maintaining a connection with nature and wildlife is so important for our mental and physical health and Taronga TV has allowed us to continue some of our most important work – promoting a shared future for wildlife and people.”

The closure was the first in Tarongo Zoo’s 103-year history.

Image shows filming of Taronga TV.