Anyone, anywhere can visit the Crocworld Conservation Centre on the KZN South Coast with its latest Digital Zoo offering.
Travel restrictions have propelled the world of virtual reality and given people across the globe the chance to experience animal encounters and learn more about nature. Crocworld Conservation Centre in Scottburgh, which is home to around 350 animal and 80 bird species, is now part of this online revolution with the launch of its Digital Zoo.
“Crocworld is dedicated to educating audiences about the importance of conservation, but the reality is that not everyone gets a chance to experience animals in person,” explains Crocworld Conservation Centre Manager, James Wittstock. “We were very excited when software developer, Daniel Carr, approached us about creating a Digital Zoo. This will give people – anywhere in the world – a chance to view and learn about the incredible animal species found here.”
Carr came up with the idea of the Digital Zoo during hard lockdown while trying to keep his daughter entertained: “We used to love visiting parks and zoos before Covid-19 but I couldn’t find a digital zoo so I decided to create one. The initial model was basic with a picture of an animal and a sound, but I then approached Crocworld to see if they’d be interested in offering an online zoo experience. It’s been a great collaboration and I’m excited for audiences to finally experience the Digital Zoo!”
The Digital Zoo will feature captivating photos, video clips, audio clips of all animals and information that educates and entertains audiences. This includes behind-the-scenes footage of the animals, interesting animal feeds and even stories of how the animals arrived at the conservation centre. There’s also the ‘Day in the life of a curator’ experience for a sneak view of caring for these furry, feathered and scaled creatures. All content is updated regularly to keep the experience fresh and exciting.
Visitors can check out the map of Crocworld with markers that indicate which animals they can view in each section. There is 24-hour access to the Crocworld Digital Zoo, allowing international audiences to watch at any time. Every ticket is valid for 24 hours and the different ticket options give members varying levels of access. These include:
- Bronze pass: Free access to 25% of Crocworld.
- Copper pass: R50 ticket for access to 50% of Crocworld.
- Silver pass: R75 ticket for access to 75% of Crocworld.
- Gold pass: R100 ticket for access to 100% of Crocworld.
- Platinum pass: R125 ticket for access to 100% of Crocworld and animal feedings.
This is the ultimate zoo experience – even for regular visitors to Crocworld – as it features never-before-seen footage and personal insights! A ticket to the Digital Zoo is an ideal Christmas gift for loved ones near and far, with vouchers available from daniel@thezyecarrgroup.co.za. The Digital Zoo is also a great option for virtual school tours.
Check out Crocworld’s Digital Zoo at https://thezyecarrgroup.co.za/Crocworld/. To find out more about Crocworld Conservation Centre visit www.crocworld.co.za or ‘Crocworld Conservation Centre’ on Facebook or call 039 976 1103. To find out more about Fish Eagle Café, call 083 658 7073 or email mvanzyl@cbl.co.za.