The Mitev family brought the first domestic animals to the estate less than a decade ago. First, there were just over a hundred of them, but nowadays, the zoo has almost 500, representing 56 different species. Among them are the rare white-headed capuchin monkeys, ring-tailed coatis, Patagonian maras, and prairie dogs. But kangaroos tend to be the visitors' favorites.
"I must point out that these kangaroos come from Tasmania, whose climate is similar to what we have here in Slovenia, so there are no major problems. But we have to pay attention to their diet," says Tomi Mitev.

African spurred tortoises also attract the attention of curious visitors. "Besides those that live on the Galapagos Islands or the Seychelles – island tortoises in other words --, these African spurred tortoises are the largest in the world. They grow to be more than a meter in length and weigh up to 150 kilograms. They can live as much as 150 years," says Mitev. The zoo's largest tortoise is the two-year-old Sultan, and the tortoises also have many young. "Agata and Pulba, two of our females, have laid more than 80 eggs so far, and we now have about 60 baby tortoises."

Visitors need to give themselves enough time for their walk among the animals. After all, many of the creatures enjoy being petted and appreciate the attention of people – and they like treats most of all.

The SIKALU Zoo was named after the children in the family – Sinaj, Kalina, and Luna --, who frequently help their parents to take care of the animals. In addition to cleaning, they also spend a considerable amount of time feeding the animals, since they're all apparently voracious eaters.

Because the animals require a great deal of work and need their rest, the zoo is open only on weekends, when its youngest visitors can also take part in a miniature safari.

Cirila Sever, TV Slovenija
Translated by J. B.