The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals Asia-Pacific Group (PETA) claims the $7 million would be better spent on improving the lives of the zoo’s animals than on visitor conveniences.

“What a colossal misuse of money,” PETA campaigns manager Rochelle Regodon said.

“Aren’t animals supposed to be the priority.

“Imagine the profound impact $7 million could have to enrich and improve the lives of the animals at the Taronga Western Plains Zoo.

“Instead money is being used to build a new entrance and playground.”

But Taronga Western Plains Zoo said the re-developments would increase the ability for more conservation education in Dubbo.

General manager Matt Fuller said the zoo had and always would be dedicated to conservation.

He said the upgrades were part of a 12-year master plan re-development.

“In the next 12 months, almost $7 million will be spent on the zoo entrance and main visitor precinct, incorporating the majority of the zoo’s visitor facilities, many of which have not been upgraded since the zoo opened in 1977,” he said.

Mr Fuller said works scheduled in the coming year include the construction of new Tasmanian Devil breeding facilities to house the Zoo’s Tasmanian Devil insurance population of animals.

Additional works include exhibit upgrades and improvements for endangered African Wild Dogs, White Rhinoceros, Siamang Ape, Eland and Giraffe.

“The zoo is absolutely committed to wildlife and its conservation”, Mr Fuller said.

belinda.galloway@ruralpre ss.com