Year 12 IB Biology visited Taronga Zoo to learn more about the conservation of species. Our focus was on the study of the Tasmanian Devil, an endangered animal affected by a transmissible cancer-causing face tumour. During the excursion, we learnt about the nature of the disease, as well as the intensive, global effort in place to preserve the Tasmanian Devil through breeding programs. We gained a deeper understanding of the importance of conservation and mechanisms in place for the protection of the Devil.

There are many organisations in Australia and the world whose aim is to preserve and protect plant and animal life for future generations, and it is our duty to become educated in sustainability. During our visit, we interviewed members of the public to gain insight into how the Zoo is perceived and what its role in conservation is –  having conducted this research we can say that the majority of the public thought they were doing a pretty good job.

Our excursion was an overnighter so we got to see the feeding of Sun Bears and Tigers firsthand, along with a Tapir – a pig-like mammal with a snout. At night, the nocturnal animals put on a great show so we heard all sorts of sounds we would have otherwise missed during the day , such as  the roaring of big cats at twilight. Thankfully, we slept among animals in cages and displays. The excursion also gave us a taste of life behind the scenes at the Zoo. We got to see rescued animals being nurtured back to health, and learnt about the sheer amount of work that needs to be done before and after opening hours.

The trip was also a wonderful bonding experience for my peers and I, and has definitely been a highlight of my time at Newington. I would love to thank Ms Bustamante, for without her, this amazing excursion could not have happened, and I would also like to thank Mr Cosgrove for giving up his time to spend a night at the Zoo with us. We all enjoyed the experience and I hope other boys get to go on this excursion in the years to come.

James Peppercorn (12/PR)
Year 12 Biology Student