At DierenPark Amersfoort, work is currently underway on an expansion of the City of Antiquity. The former Nile rut enclosure is being converted into the Granary, teeming with rats. "In this new area, visitors will soon experience the centuries-old story of humans and rats through the years," explains Educator Adam Zeeman. The new, partially covered rat enclosure is expected to open its doors to visitors at the end of the year.
In the City of Antiquity, the relationship between humans and animals takes center stage. The new facility will be designed as a granary, where rats scamper back and forth between sacks of grain, across tables, past, and even above visitors' heads. "Through audio and murals, visitors will discover how the relationship between humans and rats has evolved over the centuries—from around 10.000 BC to the present day," says Adam. "Rats are known for stealing food and spreading disease. But rats are also smart, social animals that always seem to find a way to survive," he continues. Earlier this year, the Children's Panel of DierenPark Amersfoort recommended which eras children would recognize and which elements they felt should be included. The natural design of the enclosure has also been considered. The tunnels and wooden structures in both the indoor and outdoor enclosures are tailored to the species' natural needs. The numerous climbing structures also offer plenty of challenge.
To make room for the Granary, the Nile rats were moved last year to a suitable home in a zoo in Denmark. Animals are regularly exchanged within European zoos. Visitors to the City of Antiquity will soon be able to admire up close how the rats climb, gnaw, and explore their grain-rich environment. What will happen to the current rat enclosure will be announced later. Adam: "The arrival of the Granary is part of a broader renovation in the City of Antiquity. For example, work is currently underway on a new night enclosure for the bald ibises, which will also be completed by the end of the year."
The rats can still be admired in their current enclosure in the City of Antiquity at DierenPark Amersfoort until the end of the year.