This Valentine’s, love is in the air at Emerald Park zoo! As Ireland’s premier operated theme park and zoo, which re-opens following the winter season on Saturday, 29th of March, Emerald Park is home to over 250 incredible animals that form lifelong bonds, from devoted marmosets to dancing Japanese red cranes.
To celebrate Valentine’s Day, animals at Emerald Park Zoo enjoyed delicious, love-inspired treats crafted with care by the Emerald Park rangers. Emerald Park is home to many animals whose relationships embody love, loyalty, and commitment. From the inseparable marmoset pair, Honey and Geralt, who groom each other as a sign of affection, to the bush dog pups who were born at the park last year, where mother Missy and father Pedro work together to raise their young, the bonds within the park’s animal kingdom are as inspiring as they are endearing.
The park’s white-headed vultures, Juliet and Romeo, are aptly named as these magnificent birds form lifelong partnerships, whilst the majestic Japanese red cranes, Helga and Herrflick, express their devotion through choreographed dances and loud calls that symbolise loyalty and longevity in Japanese culture. Even the elusive eagle owls, typically solitary creatures, come together each year to reunite with their chosen mate—proof that love can flourish in even the most independent spirits.
Speaking about the zoo at this time of year, Emerald Park’s Park and Animal Manager, Lee Donohoe said, "Valentine’s is the perfect time to celebrate the incredible bonds between our animals. From the devoted marmoset pair to the elegant Japanese red cranes performing their courtship dances, love and connection can be seen throughout the zoo. It’s a wonderful reminder of the strong relationships animals form, and we can’t wait for visitors to experience these heartwarming moments up close when we reopen this spring."
Emerald Park reopens on Saturday, 29th of March, bringing another season of adventure, wildlife discovery, and family fun. Guests can catch a ride on Emerald Park’s amazing thrill-seeking attractions, from the epic newly opened land of Tír na nÓg, and the iconic Cú Chulainn Coaster, to the junior favourites, Crazy Bus and Balloon Chase. Younger thrill-seekers can soar on Dino Dash, Flight School, The Celtic Dreamer and more. And who could forget about the tiger, meerkats, birds of prey and much more waiting to be discovered at the zoo home which is home to 250 diverse animals.
A must-visit attraction this spring is the petting farm, where guests can meet and interact with a variety of beloved farmyard animals, including Ouessant sheep, donkeys and alpacas. A winding outdoor pathway guides visitors through the area, offering a hands-on experience with these friendly and curious creatures. With thrilling rides, fascinating wildlife, and exciting new arrivals to discover, Emerald Park is the perfect destination for a fun filled family day out.
For more information visit EmeraldPark.ie
Slán go go.