Mitchell Park Zoo

By Finola Quarsingh

Every day of the year could feel like a holiday, especially if you make your way to Mitchell Park. Named after Sir Charles Bullen Hugh Mitchell, the park was established in the early half of the century as an ostrich farm. That venture did not go as well as planned, so it was transformed into a zoo instead.
  
Back then, a large variety of animals, including lions, leopards, crocodiles and many varieties of bird, occupied a large part of the zoo. The remainder consisted of beautifully landscaped gardens. One of the most memorable animals at the zoo at the time was Nellie, an Indian elephant.

The Maharajah of Mysore presented her to the City Council in 1928. The sweet-natured animal provided visitors with hours of entertainment, as she performed a range of tricks. She could blow a mouth organ and crack coconuts with her feet!
  
Today Mitchell Park has a whole host of small animals and birds for you to visit, including crocodiles, buck, raccoons, cranes, flamingoes, wallabies, monkeys and tortoises. There is a walk-through aviary that allows you to get close-up views of many beautiful bird varieties.
  
A sand-filled playground allows small children to enjoy playing on jungle gyms, swings, slides and other equipment. Paraplegic facilities make sure that even physically challenged visitors have a great time. While you play, mom can relax and enjoy tea or a meal at the Blue Zoo tea garden, nestled among trees and attractive flowerbeds.
 
Carefully tended lawns are perfect for family picnics, and even skottle braais are allowed. As a special treat, mom could hire the bandstand for your next birthday party, at a cost of R120. Mitchell Park’s staff members take an interest in educating children on the animal and plant worlds. They teach visitors how to preserve our natural wonders so that future generations may also enjoy them.

Schools can book tours to the park, and enjoy the perfect educational excursion. A small entrance fee is charged for visiting the zoo. Children under twelve pay R2, adults R3 and pensioners or scholars just R1 each. Seasonal and family rates differ.

For more information on Mitchell Park, or to book tours, call (031) 303 2275.