Elephant and rhino poo helps zoo farm reach record-breaking pumpkin harvest
14th September 2024
Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm has announced its most successful and varied pumpkin harvest yet. This year’s Pumpkinfest will showcase over 6,000 pumpkins grown with the help of elephant and rhino poo, making it the zoo’s largest and most exciting autumn celebration to date.
The tradition of pumpkin farming at Noah’s Ark began five years ago with what can only be described as a fortunate accident.
Larry Bush, the zoo’s managing director, said the idea first sprouted when their elephants were given pumpkins as part of their enrichment program.
Mr Bush said: “Much to the team’s surprise, a patch of pumpkins began growing from the poo heap left by the elephants.
“That unexpected, but welcome, discovery led to the intentional cultivation of pumpkins, and now it’s one of the zoo’s most-loved seasonal activities.”
Largest crops ever
This year, over 2,500 pumpkin plants have taken root in nutrients-rich compost made from the zoo’s resident elephants and rhinos. As a result, the zoo is celebrating one of its largest pumpkin and gourd crops ever.
Mr Bush explained: “The combination of a mild, wet summer and the natural fertiliser from our animals has led to one of our best harvests yet.
“This year, we have everything from Honey Bear pumpkins to textured Warty Goblins, with plenty of other varieties in between. There really is a pumpkin for everyone.”
Working with nature
Chris Brookes, commercial manager at Noah’s Ark, highlighted the zoo’s sustainable farming practices: “We’re proud of the way our pumpkins are grown, nurtured on-site using natural compost from our elephants and rhinos. Each pumpkin is harvested by hand and brought to the farm shop.
“It’s a process that reflects our commitment to sustainability and working with nature.”
Visitors can purchase pumpkins from the farm shop or pick them directly from a family friendly, wheelchair accessible pumpkin patch during Pumpkinfest, which runs from 1st October through to 3rd November.
The event promises to be a celebration of all things autumn, filled with fun for all ages and plenty of photo spots with rustic autumnal decor.
Visitors will be invited to explore the pumpkin patch, browse the selection of pumpkins, and enjoy some food and a warm drink from the farm shop.
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