“Discover the beauty of Bahamas at Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre with its exotic animals and iconic marching flamingos.”

Discovering the Beauty of Nassau: A Visit to Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre

The Bahamas is a beautiful island nation located in the Caribbean region of North America. It is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. One of the most popular tourist destinations in the Bahamas is Nassau, the capital city located on the island of New Providence. Nassau is home to a number of attractions that cater to tourists of all ages and interests. One such attraction is the Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre.

Located in the heart of Nassau, the Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre is a lush tropical garden that is home to a variety of animals, including the famous marching flamingos. The gardens cover an area of approximately five acres and are a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse oneself in nature.

The Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre was established in 1937 by Jamaican horticulturist Hedley Vivian Edwards. Edwards was a passionate conservationist who wanted to create a sanctuary for endangered animals and birds. He started by planting a variety of tropical plants, flowers and trees and gradually began introducing animals to the gardens.

Today, the Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre is home to over 300 animals from around the world, including mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. The gardens are divided into different sections, each dedicated to a specific type of animal. Visitors can walk through the gardens and observe the animals in their natural habitats.

One of the highlights of the Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre is the flamingo exhibit. The gardens are home to a flock of approximately 40 Caribbean flamingos, which are known for their vibrant pink feathers and distinctive long legs. The flamingos are free to roam around the gardens and visitors can watch them as they march in formation, a sight that is truly mesmerizing.

Apart from the flamingos, visitors can also see a variety of other birds at the gardens, including parrots, macaws, peafowl, and owls. The gardens also have a number of mammal exhibits, including a troupe of playful lemurs, a pair of jaguars, and a family of capuchin monkeys. Reptile enthusiasts can observe a variety of snakes, iguanas, and turtles, including the Bahamian boa constrictor, which is native to the islands.

In addition to the animal exhibits, the Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre also has a number of botanical exhibits, including an orchid garden, a bromeliad garden, and a palm garden. Visitors can learn about the different types of plants and their medicinal properties. The gardens are also a great place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the beauty of nature.

The Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre is not just a tourist attraction, but also a conservation center. The gardens are dedicated to preserving and protecting endangered species and educating visitors about the importance of conservation. The gardens have a breeding program for a number of endangered animals and have released several animals back into the wild.

The gardens also have a number of educational programs for school children and adults. Visitors can learn about the different types of animals and their habitats, as well as the importance of conservation and sustainability. The gardens also offer guided tours, where visitors can learn about the history of the gardens and the different species of animals and plants.

The Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Nassau. It offers a unique opportunity to observe a variety of animals up close and learn about the importance of conservation and sustainability. The gardens are a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, where visitors can escape the noise and chaos of the city and immerse themselves in nature.

In conclusion, the Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre is a beautiful and educational attraction in Nassau, Bahamas. It is home to a variety of animals and plants and offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about conservation and sustainability. The gardens are a perfect place to relax and unwind and are a must-visit for anyone visiting Nassau.