Species of Amazon to find home in İzmir park

İZMİR

On an area of 425,000 square meters, the park is home to nearly 1,500 animals of 126 species, and every species has its own living space. AA photo

The İzmir Natural Life Park, which showcases many endangered species, is preparing to present a Southern American habitat for its visitors. Next year, animals such as penguins, sloth bears and sea otters will start living in the park. There are also plans to adapt the park for species of the Amazon rainforest, such as jaguars.

Şahin Afşin, The park’s director, said the park, located on an area of 425,000 square meters, was home to some 1,500 animals of 126 species, and that every species has its own living space.

He said efforts continue to bring new species to the park, but they will first be creating living space for penguins, sloth bears and sea otters. “Projects are in the process. We are trying to create an island for the penguins. We will bring the new species by end of 2015,” he said.

Afşin said a river in the park will be renovated to create South America’s habitats. He said there will be an Amazon delta in this new section for new species including jaguars, wild cats, spider monkeys, eagles and vultures.

He also noted that in accordance with the five-year investment plans of the İzmir Metropolitan Municipality, a Mediterranean Aquarium and Zoology Museum will also be established in the park.