With the debut of a brand new complex, especially at a zoo like the San Diego Zoo, it is surely to grab the attention of zoo nerds and guests alike. SDZWA has had some hits and misses in the past decade, with the Safari Park producing two beautiful complexes that I consider my favorites. Africa Rocks is a mixed bag for many Zoochatters, and with time I have come to see some of its shortcomings although I do enjoy each time I visit. All that being said, SDZWA has knocked it out of the park with this new projects. Perhaps because it’s new is why I love it so much, but the moment I stepped into the new area, my heart raced and my eyes widened as if I went back to my childhood.
To say that Basecamp is a children’s zoo may seem like underselling it, as it has activities for many ages and habitats varying in species as well. Although children are the emphasis for this area, adults of all ages seemed to also enjoy in the activities during my visit and I am very guilt of doing the same
The Basecamp is split into 4 zones: Desert Dunes, Rainforest, Marsh Meadows, and Wild Woods. Each zone is different in a few ways to accommodate the species they want to display. Some may potentially see it as a negative as not having each zone filled to the brim with habitats/animals, but I actually didn’t find it bothersome as a couple sections indeed have many species to enjoy 
PS, I’ll be uploading more photos throughout these coming days and weeks. Hopefully I’ll be able illustrate my thoughts while showing off photos of the complex. Some shots I will redux as some came out not to my standards to showcase the habitat or architecture in the best light possible.
Desert Dunes
The first sections to greet you after walking into the Basecamp, with statues of small animals for children to climb and take memorable photo opportunities for families. A large picnic area is available with some shaded tables for anyone to enjoy, located right in front of the Busy Bee Cafe. As you go deeper into Desert Dune, you’re welcomed by a couple different ways to traverse it: walking down a sloped walkway or going down their mini rock/rope climb activity. For those who may be worried of potentially getting injured badly, the floor is a rubber like texture that allows for children and adults alike to fall without actually getting hurt too harshly. The rock/rock climb activity is better enjoyed when walking out of the Rainforest area at least from my experience.
As you walk down the sloped path, you come face to face with netted habitat containing Black Tailed Prairie Dogs and Western Burrowing Owls. It’s semi-circular shaped, with the back part being home to another desert dwelling critter. There are rocky formations for the owls to take refuge and people watch, the group of Prairie Dogs are a joy to watch. On my first visit, the Prairie Dogs would dig their hole and have others keep watch out while the Burrowing Owls would swoop down and investigate their new digs(pun intended). The owls have branches installed high above the ground so they can have their own spaces while the prairie dogs do the hard work for them. As you continue down, the next habitat is wrapped behind the previous and contains one of the most adorable desert animals: Fennec Fox. It’s a bit more planted with bushes and rocky hideouts for the timid canines, the habitat is definitely smaller compared to the prairie dog/burrowing owls one. One nice detail I noticed are the Fennec Fox family shaped benches through the area, the same idea as used to make the wonderful hummingbird benches in the Hummingbird Habitat.
Wild Woods
Once you passed under or over the Discovery Bridge, you’re stumbling upon some very active and nosey neighbors: South American Coatis. There was a small group present on the habitat, 3-4 from my count. Using the long nose, they search for food items scattered around the habitat in high and low places. Their habitat is close to 2 stories tall, however most of the habitat is on the ground level with a few branches. They have a couple caves, planted tree placed by a plateau style outcrop. Thick ropes and branches protrude from the plateau, allowing for access to the top of the habitat and putting you at the height of the aforementioned bridge.
As you walk past the coatis, you can see and hear a small artificial stream. It’s fed by the water features, some spouting like geysers and appeared to be timed for different heights, speed, and patterns. The next water feature is shooting arched streams of water, almost as if Archerfish are trying to shoot down insects from nearby vegetation. If you have reached this area, it would be near impossible to miss the Tree of Dreams: a large tree like structure that is an essential means of transit throughout the Wild Woods, and also connecting you to Marsh Meadows/Rainforest zones when on the top level. You can walk up via steps shaped as tree stumps, the suspension bridge that is for those feeling adventurous, and the swaying bridge that is more stable but still a feel a sense of thrill as walk it to the get to the next habitat.
Guianan Squirrel Monkeys are surely to catch your eye and heart as you see them being dynamic amongst themselves. Their habitat has a similarly shaped artificial tree to that of the Tree of Dreams inside their home, with branches pointed upwards so the monkeys can climb their netted habitat. A few baby trees are also planted, which I can only suspect the squirrel monkeys will make quick work of them if I were to guess. Their habitat is echoing the appearance of a jungle gym, allowing for them to display arboreal behaviors and play their version of tag. Often times, I’d observe the squirrel monkeys and boisterous children being playful with one another and almost trying to imitate each other. My favorite vantage point to see the squirrel monkeys is the children viewing window as they’re often stopping by to check people out.
The main stream is fed by a waterfall that anyone, yours truly included, can jump through to get very wet and another wonderful photo op. If at any point you became soaked due to the water play features, you can walk up towards the direct of the Rady Ambassadors Animals buildings and find yourself in the warm embrace of human sized blow dryers hiding nearby the rock work. For 3 dollars, you can get dried up pretty well but perhaps may need another round if you see completely drenched. A small maze like course of rocks are found after human dryers, a sweet spot to play hide and seek. I think children of all ages will fall in love with Wild Woods and not only will be able to play, but also observe animals having their version of fun and it’s a Kodak moment for sure. It’s a win-win for all and maybe bring a change of clothes in case you enjoy the water play features!
Marsh Meadows
Perhaps seen as the smallest zone, Marsh Meadows consists of two similar sized and shaped ponds for perfect photograph opportunities. As you walk down towards the ponds, there is a sort of Easter egg schematic to the walkway. It shows brown colored walkway with frogs drawn, slowly becoming more blue tinged and changes from frogs to fish as to reflect the more aquatic features within the Cool Critters building. The pond on the right side is filled to the brim with an assortment of turtles, unfortunately not signed although can identify a couple species including the Spotted Turtle. A sandy terrain surrounds the first section of the pond, with most of the terrain being the pond with logs and vegetation around. You have visual access to the turtles at almost every given moment, seeing the small turtles basking in the sun is one of the most adorable and calm moments you will see in the Basecamp!
As for the pond on the left side prior to the Cool Critters, it was rather hard to make out what exactly was present on my first lap. Then looking closely to a half submerged log, I made out the shape of a crocodilian. My guess was perhaps on the West African Dwarf Crocodiles as they had a young individual housed at Forest Tales. Turns out I was correct, it’s indeed the same individual. Seeing the petite crocodilian showing off a toothy grin makes it hard to not want to photograph it. Based on the size of the crocodilian compared to its new home, it’s very well suited and will remain a proper home when it reaches full size.
Although not an exhibit, Rady Ambassadors building is home to many of the ambassadors program animals. It appears to be a 2 story tall building, sectioned off from the general public. Every day at 1 PM, a presentation occurs in front of the Ambassadors building. Some animals featured in the past week range from Tamandua, Binturong, Prehensile Tailed Porcupine, and many more! Crowds gather around to see the presentation to hopefully learn about the wonderful species from around the world.
Rainforest
The last major zone, the Rainforest zone is home to a few habitats and my favorite part of the whole Basecamp: Spineless Marvels! On a side note, Cool Critters is considered bridge between Rainforest and Marsh Meadows zones but will be treating it as it’s own and on the zoo’s website it appears to be that way as well. The first habitat is attached to the back end of the Cool Critters but is considered a part of the Rainforest zone. It has a couple different tortoise species, the highlight being the Burmese Star Tortoise. It is a netted habitat, filled with crevices for the tortoises can hide from the sun. Not necessarily the most thrilling habitat, at least to me however I do appreciate seeing such a beautiful and endangered animal as the Burmese Star Tortoise.
Continuing close to the tortoise habitat, there are 3 netted habitats not signed at all and for good reason. All 3 are about 2 stories tall, with some climbing structures and hiding boxes are present on the main support beams. Fairly planted at the base, each somewhat different in their layout especially the terrain. All 3 are considered Wildlife Ambassador habitats. Seeing that a lot of ambassador program animals usually aren’t out on display in other habitats, they’re use for those they want to display and also rotate out with other ambassadors. One my visit, the animals on display so far have been: ocelot, tamandua, and prehensile tailed porcupine. They also have access to their holding areas as they not used to be out on display for such long lengths and can retreat when needed. A feature I actually enjoy about these habitats and can only imagine what other species can be displayed, maybe a binturong or clouded leopard can take refuge there. Spineless Marvels greets you on either floor you choose to observe the Wildlife Ambassadors habitats from. As I mentioned before, the Spineless Marvels is considered part of the Rainforest zone and will discuss at length about it as well. I don’t say it lightly as I truly fell in love with the Spineless Marvels house from the moment I stepped into this tiny world.
Cool Critters
Walking into this new herptile house, you can see that is a step up from the other reptile house at the zoo regarding its design and guest satisfaction. Blue neon lights line the ceiling and koi fish painted onto the floor add a sense of being underwater, a nice touch might I say. Starting the first floor by the Marsh Meadows ponds, you have two large amphibious habitats on opposite sides. On your right, you have cichlids of various species swimming together but are definitely not the stars. A large West African Lungfish loves to hide towards the bottom front aspect of the habitat. Mangrove like branched with massive leaves drape themselves into its habitat. On the opposite side, a Chinese giant salamander prefers to hide its large body within logs with occasional trips to the surface during lunch time. Both habitats are major draws for guests since their massive inhabitants and their unique appearance amaze children and adults alike.
Next to the lungfish, the next habitat is slightly smaller with more vegetation out of the water for their semi-aquatic residents. A yellow-greenish camian lizard swims across the surface looking for worms, stopping to rest on a branch. Angelfish and Blue Acara also share the space, nipping at the lush vegetation constantly to enjoy. Another smaller sized aquarium holding ferocious water bugs and sunburst diving beetles, a perfect demonstration that not all insects will be wary of water. Moving to the left side from the Marsh Meadows entrance, 4 semi-cylindrical terrariums/aquariums line the wall. Each varying to accommodate their residents, with one of the habitats being larger than the rest and unfortunately had a super star not ready for their time in the spot light.
Axolotls are set to debut again this coming week after talks with staff, they had to balance the chemistry of the water and now are awaiting to place the axolotl back into their home and their home is fitted with lighting to showcase their unusual pigmentation/appearance so guests can enjoy. Next to the last habitat, a large touchscreen for people to enjoy and learn about the inhabitants of the marshes. The final habitat literally spills onto the outside, a mixed home for Dwarf Caimans and Yellow Spotted River Turtles. The caiman lay still and waiting for lunch by their running stream, and the turtles would bask up against their rocky embankment and take a dive in either of the opposite pools(one facing inwards into Cool Critters and the other being fed outside by the steady stream).
To access the top floor, you can go up by the Rainforest zone as it’s the easiest way with minimal backtracking. Once you step in, you’re wonderfully welcomed by a tall terrarium no matter what side you enter from. Fiji Banded Iguanas and Green Tree Monitors are each housed in the large terrariums, with actual trees planted instead each so they can hide without a much work. 3 semi-cylindrical terrarium line the wall closest to the entrances, with a green snake like pattern draped around them to illustrate what animals can be found in this room: mostly snakes with a couple exceptions. One glassed off section of the room is a dedicated incubation area with announcements as to recent and expected births. Following right behind this area, is a BTS area for keepers to prep food for the animal residents and a tall rack for recently birth herptiles. It bares a resemblance to the LAIR at the LA Zoo for those familiar with it.
A couple of microscope stations are squarely place dead center, 3 microscopes at each. They have a lcd screen which can further magnify preserved animal specimens, then able to take a snapshot and color/edit as you may please. Then when you’re done with your masterpiece, feel free to email to yourself and unfortunately I’m not artistically gifted with drawing so I haven’t made the attempt haha A large illustration with animals representing the areas the SDZWA work with their conservation partners makes mention of the efforts anyone can do to minimized the impact. Lastly before leaving, a few more terrariums line the wall next to the microscope station. The Woma is perhaps the more endangered specie of those on this wall of terrariums, many of which our very own @betsy posted about it showing what animals are present at Cool Critters and Spineless Marvels!
Spineless Marvels
Now after mentioning earlier in the thread, I cannot stress enough how much I love Spineless Marvels. Insects have always been amongst my favorite group of animals, having the small critter kits filled with beetles or spiders. There are 4 different entrances to the building, the main entrance is by the Basecamp entrance with proper signage indicating what it is so no one is surprised. Starting by the main entrance, you’re in a darkly lit environment with a projected image on the curved ceiling showing flutter butterflies and giving the guests a sense of scale from the insects point of view. As with Cool Critters, the habitats are either cylindrical or square shaped terrariums. There are exceptions of course for some of the more interesting inhabitants which I’ll also further delve into.
The first section by the main entrance has terrariums on either side of the walls, the right containing fairly larger insect specie like katydids or crickets. While the left sided wall has small insects, introducing some to stick insects like one of instant favorites the Peruvian Fire Stick. The dark body with beaming parts of red photograph well as long as you can steady your shot. Continuing further, there’s large room with illustrations showcasing how the senses of an insect are similar to humans. You’ll find an assortment of roaches and beetles in this area, some of which I hadn’t heard of before like Taxicab Beetles or Domino Roaches. Once again, an interactive touchscreen table as well as microscope stations are free for children to use at their pace. As with Cool Critters, the fun activities all surround the world of insects and multiple pairs or families can play on the table at once. A hazy window between the walls of beetles and roaches shows BTS setup of where off display insects are reared.
Several mantis species showing off their camouflage skills, the Dead Leaf Mantis living up to its name as if it’s the best method actor ever. These beautiful predators caught the eyes of many, myself included. Now you may hear a bit of a buzz, again pun intended and rightly so, as you’re walking into a simulated beehive. Parts of a honeycomb with large honey bees stand above guests, lit up show off the golden color. As for actual live bees, a colony of Western Honey Bee in duplicate hives, illuminated by red light. It’s been proposed that the honey and honeycombs will be used as added enrichment for the various species throughout the zoo especially their bears. Lastly, a final round of beetles like the Rhinoceros Beetle are found close the exit. However, there’s a bit more to see outside and also the bottom floor is another memorable sight to behold.
When going past the curtain of heavy plastic chains, a feeling of humidity hits you and sweat may begin to collect on a hot day. Still a work in progress as it’s the future home to butterflies and moths being raised BTS and in the Butterfly Emergency Zone next to the honey bees habitat. A large artificial tree stems from the bottom floor, with more homes for invertebrates. You can walk outside and instead of taking stairs down, an accessible elevator will bring you down to the entrance the bottom floor of Spineless Marvels. Once again, you will be in a humid habitat for which I recommend a cold water if you plan to be in there for an extended period of time. A large glass fronted habitat with a mini waterfall is soon to have their Coconut Crab on display, a much needed upgrade from the insanely small space they had in Tiger River. Beside the coconut crab habitat, a Millipede habitat is filled with dead vegetation and bark to disguise themselves. What I consider creme de le crème inside the Spineless Marvels, the impressive Leafcutter Ants Habitat extends to the upper floor. It’s a large store tree surrounded by water to keep the ants on their island. A small tunnel towards the base of the tree, connecting it the opposite side for the wall where you can see the ants harvested leaves for which they grow the fungus from.
Next to the Leafcutter Ants, a couple other ant species can be found and each showcasing what makes them different besides their appearance: Honeypot and Desert Carpenter Ants. More illustrations drive home the message why these creepy crawlies are essential for healthy ecosystems. In a bright lit up area, aluminum replicas of the intricate ant tunnels create beneath our very own feet. Another tunnel dweller is found next to the display, however isn’t an invertebrate. A huge colony of Naked Mole Rats are partitioned off by glass and you can see the lit up tunnels. Some are filled with sleeping mole rats, others are a means of transportation or to find their food scattered about. Off to the left side from the main viewing area for the naked mole rats, a small tunnel for children or adults capable of squeezing down into. You get a more intimate look at the mole rats. And for a fun play on perspective, screen shows off the mole rats moving around and it’s roughly human sized to make you feel that you may also be a mole rat too!
The next inhabitants are sure to give you goosebumps if fearful of arachnids. Spiders and tarantulas are found about in various smaller sizes terrariums, ranging from tropical to desert like environments. I can see that some people became uneasy at their sight, children in general didn’t seem to mind. Scorpions can also be found here, although much more shy and didn’t make an appearance on my visit. A break in low light settings is made obvious by interactive screens. This is one I did partake in myself, a guessing game if you can spot the camouflaged insects and clues are provided if you are ready to call it quits but want to find them still. A unique but somewhat conflicting habitat in my opinion, the Golden Orb Weavers are separated by water. For those with good low light camera kit, you will capture some beautiful photos without any glare or warping: As for what is last but certainly not least, two large terrariums with planted trees welcome you on either side of the entrance/exit. Each are filled with Goliath Stick Insects which I did have a bit of a hard time finding until I looks a few inches downward.
Final Thoughts and Score
With having talked up the Basecamp, I do have a few shortcomings that come to mind. I don’t know what I truly was expect from the barrierless Golden Orb Weaver habitat, it felt a bit sterile although I won’t complain that it allows me to take sweet shots without glass in the way. A good majority of the inhabitants are common animal species that can be seen at other zoos. Another misstep is there is no signage for the Marsh Meadows regarding their turtle species, a few to several can be found in the pond. While many of us can use apps or our very own knowledge of turtles to identify each, the average zoo guest may not be able to do so or think of doing. As for my least favorite habitat, the tortoise habitat is king. It’s a bit secluded and because it’s at ground level with guests, and the tortoises are rather small that they can be missed. And as for the elephant in the room, concept art and talks showcased a pangolin being a part of the Basecamp. Us as zoo nerds, our collective hearts flutter and minds race at the thought of seeing a pangolin up-close. It’s not necessarily a negative but also feels bit like a tease at least especially with SDZ having the recognition and resources to potentially show such an important animal.
With all I’ve said, I can safely say this: the Wildlife Explorers Basecamp is a success! At the end of the day, it’s supposed to be a Children’s Zoo and it passes that aspect with flying colors. Yes it’s not perfect but it is a much needed improvement to its previous iteration. Children and adults will find plenty to enjoy, I saw senior visitors having fun with their grandchildren crossing the suspension bridge or doing the rope course. The diversity of species that can be found here is nothing to scoff at and a major plus for it. A zoo within in the zoo, an massive array of vibrant colors, fun for all ages, and a must visit to my fellow Zoochatters. My score for what is supposed to be at it’s heart, a children’s zoo: 9.5 out of 10. I will say this again: this is the best project the zoo has done in the past 20 years and well worth the wait!
To say that Basecamp is a children’s zoo may seem like underselling it, as it has activities for many ages and habitats varying in species as well. Although children are the emphasis for this area, adults of all ages seemed to also enjoy in the activities during my visit and I am very guilt of doing the same
The Basecamp is split into 4 zones: Desert Dunes, Rainforest, Marsh Meadows, and Wild Woods. Each zone is different in a few ways to accommodate the species they want to display. Some may potentially see it as a negative as not having each zone filled to the brim with habitats/animals, but I actually didn’t find it bothersome as a couple sections indeed have many species to enjoy PS, I’ll be uploading more photos throughout these coming days and weeks. Hopefully I’ll be able illustrate my thoughts while showing off photos of the complex. Some shots I will redux as some came out not to my standards to showcase the habitat or architecture in the best light possible.Desert Dunes
The first sections to greet you after walking into the Basecamp, with statues of small animals for children to climb and take memorable photo opportunities for families. A large picnic area is available with some shaded tables for anyone to enjoy, located right in front of the Busy Bee Cafe. As you go deeper into Desert Dune, you’re welcomed by a couple different ways to traverse it: walking down a sloped walkway or going down their mini rock/rope climb activity. For those who may be worried of potentially getting injured badly, the floor is a rubber like texture that allows for children and adults alike to fall without actually getting hurt too harshly. The rock/rock climb activity is better enjoyed when walking out of the Rainforest area at least from my experience.
As you walk down the sloped path, you come face to face with netted habitat containing Black Tailed Prairie Dogs and Western Burrowing Owls. It’s semi-circular shaped, with the back part being home to another desert dwelling critter. There are rocky formations for the owls to take refuge and people watch, the group of Prairie Dogs are a joy to watch. On my first visit, the Prairie Dogs would dig their hole and have others keep watch out while the Burrowing Owls would swoop down and investigate their new digs(pun intended). The owls have branches installed high above the ground so they can have their own spaces while the prairie dogs do the hard work for them. As you continue down, the next habitat is wrapped behind the previous and contains one of the most adorable desert animals: Fennec Fox. It’s a bit more planted with bushes and rocky hideouts for the timid canines, the habitat is definitely smaller compared to the prairie dog/burrowing owls one. One nice detail I noticed are the Fennec Fox family shaped benches through the area, the same idea as used to make the wonderful hummingbird benches in the Hummingbird Habitat.
Wild Woods
Once you passed under or over the Discovery Bridge, you’re stumbling upon some very active and nosey neighbors: South American Coatis. There was a small group present on the habitat, 3-4 from my count. Using the long nose, they search for food items scattered around the habitat in high and low places. Their habitat is close to 2 stories tall, however most of the habitat is on the ground level with a few branches. They have a couple caves, planted tree placed by a plateau style outcrop. Thick ropes and branches protrude from the plateau, allowing for access to the top of the habitat and putting you at the height of the aforementioned bridge.
As you walk past the coatis, you can see and hear a small artificial stream. It’s fed by the water features, some spouting like geysers and appeared to be timed for different heights, speed, and patterns. The next water feature is shooting arched streams of water, almost as if Archerfish are trying to shoot down insects from nearby vegetation. If you have reached this area, it would be near impossible to miss the Tree of Dreams: a large tree like structure that is an essential means of transit throughout the Wild Woods, and also connecting you to Marsh Meadows/Rainforest zones when on the top level. You can walk up via steps shaped as tree stumps, the suspension bridge that is for those feeling adventurous, and the swaying bridge that is more stable but still a feel a sense of thrill as walk it to the get to the next habitat.
Guianan Squirrel Monkeys are surely to catch your eye and heart as you see them being dynamic amongst themselves. Their habitat has a similarly shaped artificial tree to that of the Tree of Dreams inside their home, with branches pointed upwards so the monkeys can climb their netted habitat. A few baby trees are also planted, which I can only suspect the squirrel monkeys will make quick work of them if I were to guess. Their habitat is echoing the appearance of a jungle gym, allowing for them to display arboreal behaviors and play their version of tag. Often times, I’d observe the squirrel monkeys and boisterous children being playful with one another and almost trying to imitate each other. My favorite vantage point to see the squirrel monkeys is the children viewing window as they’re often stopping by to check people out.
The main stream is fed by a waterfall that anyone, yours truly included, can jump through to get very wet and another wonderful photo op. If at any point you became soaked due to the water play features, you can walk up towards the direct of the Rady Ambassadors Animals buildings and find yourself in the warm embrace of human sized blow dryers hiding nearby the rock work. For 3 dollars, you can get dried up pretty well but perhaps may need another round if you see completely drenched. A small maze like course of rocks are found after human dryers, a sweet spot to play hide and seek. I think children of all ages will fall in love with Wild Woods and not only will be able to play, but also observe animals having their version of fun and it’s a Kodak moment for sure. It’s a win-win for all and maybe bring a change of clothes in case you enjoy the water play features!
Marsh Meadows
Perhaps seen as the smallest zone, Marsh Meadows consists of two similar sized and shaped ponds for perfect photograph opportunities. As you walk down towards the ponds, there is a sort of Easter egg schematic to the walkway. It shows brown colored walkway with frogs drawn, slowly becoming more blue tinged and changes from frogs to fish as to reflect the more aquatic features within the Cool Critters building. The pond on the right side is filled to the brim with an assortment of turtles, unfortunately not signed although can identify a couple species including the Spotted Turtle. A sandy terrain surrounds the first section of the pond, with most of the terrain being the pond with logs and vegetation around. You have visual access to the turtles at almost every given moment, seeing the small turtles basking in the sun is one of the most adorable and calm moments you will see in the Basecamp!
As for the pond on the left side prior to the Cool Critters, it was rather hard to make out what exactly was present on my first lap. Then looking closely to a half submerged log, I made out the shape of a crocodilian. My guess was perhaps on the West African Dwarf Crocodiles as they had a young individual housed at Forest Tales. Turns out I was correct, it’s indeed the same individual. Seeing the petite crocodilian showing off a toothy grin makes it hard to not want to photograph it. Based on the size of the crocodilian compared to its new home, it’s very well suited and will remain a proper home when it reaches full size.
Although not an exhibit, Rady Ambassadors building is home to many of the ambassadors program animals. It appears to be a 2 story tall building, sectioned off from the general public. Every day at 1 PM, a presentation occurs in front of the Ambassadors building. Some animals featured in the past week range from Tamandua, Binturong, Prehensile Tailed Porcupine, and many more! Crowds gather around to see the presentation to hopefully learn about the wonderful species from around the world.
Rainforest
The last major zone, the Rainforest zone is home to a few habitats and my favorite part of the whole Basecamp: Spineless Marvels! On a side note, Cool Critters is considered bridge between Rainforest and Marsh Meadows zones but will be treating it as it’s own and on the zoo’s website it appears to be that way as well. The first habitat is attached to the back end of the Cool Critters but is considered a part of the Rainforest zone. It has a couple different tortoise species, the highlight being the Burmese Star Tortoise. It is a netted habitat, filled with crevices for the tortoises can hide from the sun. Not necessarily the most thrilling habitat, at least to me however I do appreciate seeing such a beautiful and endangered animal as the Burmese Star Tortoise.
Continuing close to the tortoise habitat, there are 3 netted habitats not signed at all and for good reason. All 3 are about 2 stories tall, with some climbing structures and hiding boxes are present on the main support beams. Fairly planted at the base, each somewhat different in their layout especially the terrain. All 3 are considered Wildlife Ambassador habitats. Seeing that a lot of ambassador program animals usually aren’t out on display in other habitats, they’re use for those they want to display and also rotate out with other ambassadors. One my visit, the animals on display so far have been: ocelot, tamandua, and prehensile tailed porcupine. They also have access to their holding areas as they not used to be out on display for such long lengths and can retreat when needed. A feature I actually enjoy about these habitats and can only imagine what other species can be displayed, maybe a binturong or clouded leopard can take refuge there. Spineless Marvels greets you on either floor you choose to observe the Wildlife Ambassadors habitats from. As I mentioned before, the Spineless Marvels is considered part of the Rainforest zone and will discuss at length about it as well. I don’t say it lightly as I truly fell in love with the Spineless Marvels house from the moment I stepped into this tiny world.
Cool Critters
Walking into this new herptile house, you can see that is a step up from the other reptile house at the zoo regarding its design and guest satisfaction. Blue neon lights line the ceiling and koi fish painted onto the floor add a sense of being underwater, a nice touch might I say. Starting the first floor by the Marsh Meadows ponds, you have two large amphibious habitats on opposite sides. On your right, you have cichlids of various species swimming together but are definitely not the stars. A large West African Lungfish loves to hide towards the bottom front aspect of the habitat. Mangrove like branched with massive leaves drape themselves into its habitat. On the opposite side, a Chinese giant salamander prefers to hide its large body within logs with occasional trips to the surface during lunch time. Both habitats are major draws for guests since their massive inhabitants and their unique appearance amaze children and adults alike.
Next to the lungfish, the next habitat is slightly smaller with more vegetation out of the water for their semi-aquatic residents. A yellow-greenish camian lizard swims across the surface looking for worms, stopping to rest on a branch. Angelfish and Blue Acara also share the space, nipping at the lush vegetation constantly to enjoy. Another smaller sized aquarium holding ferocious water bugs and sunburst diving beetles, a perfect demonstration that not all insects will be wary of water. Moving to the left side from the Marsh Meadows entrance, 4 semi-cylindrical terrariums/aquariums line the wall. Each varying to accommodate their residents, with one of the habitats being larger than the rest and unfortunately had a super star not ready for their time in the spot light.
Axolotls are set to debut again this coming week after talks with staff, they had to balance the chemistry of the water and now are awaiting to place the axolotl back into their home and their home is fitted with lighting to showcase their unusual pigmentation/appearance so guests can enjoy. Next to the last habitat, a large touchscreen for people to enjoy and learn about the inhabitants of the marshes. The final habitat literally spills onto the outside, a mixed home for Dwarf Caimans and Yellow Spotted River Turtles. The caiman lay still and waiting for lunch by their running stream, and the turtles would bask up against their rocky embankment and take a dive in either of the opposite pools(one facing inwards into Cool Critters and the other being fed outside by the steady stream).
To access the top floor, you can go up by the Rainforest zone as it’s the easiest way with minimal backtracking. Once you step in, you’re wonderfully welcomed by a tall terrarium no matter what side you enter from. Fiji Banded Iguanas and Green Tree Monitors are each housed in the large terrariums, with actual trees planted instead each so they can hide without a much work. 3 semi-cylindrical terrarium line the wall closest to the entrances, with a green snake like pattern draped around them to illustrate what animals can be found in this room: mostly snakes with a couple exceptions. One glassed off section of the room is a dedicated incubation area with announcements as to recent and expected births. Following right behind this area, is a BTS area for keepers to prep food for the animal residents and a tall rack for recently birth herptiles. It bares a resemblance to the LAIR at the LA Zoo for those familiar with it.
A couple of microscope stations are squarely place dead center, 3 microscopes at each. They have a lcd screen which can further magnify preserved animal specimens, then able to take a snapshot and color/edit as you may please. Then when you’re done with your masterpiece, feel free to email to yourself and unfortunately I’m not artistically gifted with drawing so I haven’t made the attempt haha A large illustration with animals representing the areas the SDZWA work with their conservation partners makes mention of the efforts anyone can do to minimized the impact. Lastly before leaving, a few more terrariums line the wall next to the microscope station. The Woma is perhaps the more endangered specie of those on this wall of terrariums, many of which our very own @betsy posted about it showing what animals are present at Cool Critters and Spineless Marvels!
Spineless Marvels
Now after mentioning earlier in the thread, I cannot stress enough how much I love Spineless Marvels. Insects have always been amongst my favorite group of animals, having the small critter kits filled with beetles or spiders. There are 4 different entrances to the building, the main entrance is by the Basecamp entrance with proper signage indicating what it is so no one is surprised. Starting by the main entrance, you’re in a darkly lit environment with a projected image on the curved ceiling showing flutter butterflies and giving the guests a sense of scale from the insects point of view. As with Cool Critters, the habitats are either cylindrical or square shaped terrariums. There are exceptions of course for some of the more interesting inhabitants which I’ll also further delve into.
The first section by the main entrance has terrariums on either side of the walls, the right containing fairly larger insect specie like katydids or crickets. While the left sided wall has small insects, introducing some to stick insects like one of instant favorites the Peruvian Fire Stick. The dark body with beaming parts of red photograph well as long as you can steady your shot. Continuing further, there’s large room with illustrations showcasing how the senses of an insect are similar to humans. You’ll find an assortment of roaches and beetles in this area, some of which I hadn’t heard of before like Taxicab Beetles or Domino Roaches. Once again, an interactive touchscreen table as well as microscope stations are free for children to use at their pace. As with Cool Critters, the fun activities all surround the world of insects and multiple pairs or families can play on the table at once. A hazy window between the walls of beetles and roaches shows BTS setup of where off display insects are reared.
Several mantis species showing off their camouflage skills, the Dead Leaf Mantis living up to its name as if it’s the best method actor ever. These beautiful predators caught the eyes of many, myself included. Now you may hear a bit of a buzz, again pun intended and rightly so, as you’re walking into a simulated beehive. Parts of a honeycomb with large honey bees stand above guests, lit up show off the golden color. As for actual live bees, a colony of Western Honey Bee in duplicate hives, illuminated by red light. It’s been proposed that the honey and honeycombs will be used as added enrichment for the various species throughout the zoo especially their bears. Lastly, a final round of beetles like the Rhinoceros Beetle are found close the exit. However, there’s a bit more to see outside and also the bottom floor is another memorable sight to behold.
When going past the curtain of heavy plastic chains, a feeling of humidity hits you and sweat may begin to collect on a hot day. Still a work in progress as it’s the future home to butterflies and moths being raised BTS and in the Butterfly Emergency Zone next to the honey bees habitat. A large artificial tree stems from the bottom floor, with more homes for invertebrates. You can walk outside and instead of taking stairs down, an accessible elevator will bring you down to the entrance the bottom floor of Spineless Marvels. Once again, you will be in a humid habitat for which I recommend a cold water if you plan to be in there for an extended period of time. A large glass fronted habitat with a mini waterfall is soon to have their Coconut Crab on display, a much needed upgrade from the insanely small space they had in Tiger River. Beside the coconut crab habitat, a Millipede habitat is filled with dead vegetation and bark to disguise themselves. What I consider creme de le crème inside the Spineless Marvels, the impressive Leafcutter Ants Habitat extends to the upper floor. It’s a large store tree surrounded by water to keep the ants on their island. A small tunnel towards the base of the tree, connecting it the opposite side for the wall where you can see the ants harvested leaves for which they grow the fungus from.
Next to the Leafcutter Ants, a couple other ant species can be found and each showcasing what makes them different besides their appearance: Honeypot and Desert Carpenter Ants. More illustrations drive home the message why these creepy crawlies are essential for healthy ecosystems. In a bright lit up area, aluminum replicas of the intricate ant tunnels create beneath our very own feet. Another tunnel dweller is found next to the display, however isn’t an invertebrate. A huge colony of Naked Mole Rats are partitioned off by glass and you can see the lit up tunnels. Some are filled with sleeping mole rats, others are a means of transportation or to find their food scattered about. Off to the left side from the main viewing area for the naked mole rats, a small tunnel for children or adults capable of squeezing down into. You get a more intimate look at the mole rats. And for a fun play on perspective, screen shows off the mole rats moving around and it’s roughly human sized to make you feel that you may also be a mole rat too!
The next inhabitants are sure to give you goosebumps if fearful of arachnids. Spiders and tarantulas are found about in various smaller sizes terrariums, ranging from tropical to desert like environments. I can see that some people became uneasy at their sight, children in general didn’t seem to mind. Scorpions can also be found here, although much more shy and didn’t make an appearance on my visit. A break in low light settings is made obvious by interactive screens. This is one I did partake in myself, a guessing game if you can spot the camouflaged insects and clues are provided if you are ready to call it quits but want to find them still. A unique but somewhat conflicting habitat in my opinion, the Golden Orb Weavers are separated by water. For those with good low light camera kit, you will capture some beautiful photos without any glare or warping: As for what is last but certainly not least, two large terrariums with planted trees welcome you on either side of the entrance/exit. Each are filled with Goliath Stick Insects which I did have a bit of a hard time finding until I looks a few inches downward.
Final Thoughts and Score
With having talked up the Basecamp, I do have a few shortcomings that come to mind. I don’t know what I truly was expect from the barrierless Golden Orb Weaver habitat, it felt a bit sterile although I won’t complain that it allows me to take sweet shots without glass in the way. A good majority of the inhabitants are common animal species that can be seen at other zoos. Another misstep is there is no signage for the Marsh Meadows regarding their turtle species, a few to several can be found in the pond. While many of us can use apps or our very own knowledge of turtles to identify each, the average zoo guest may not be able to do so or think of doing. As for my least favorite habitat, the tortoise habitat is king. It’s a bit secluded and because it’s at ground level with guests, and the tortoises are rather small that they can be missed. And as for the elephant in the room, concept art and talks showcased a pangolin being a part of the Basecamp. Us as zoo nerds, our collective hearts flutter and minds race at the thought of seeing a pangolin up-close. It’s not necessarily a negative but also feels bit like a tease at least especially with SDZ having the recognition and resources to potentially show such an important animal.
With all I’ve said, I can safely say this: the Wildlife Explorers Basecamp is a success! At the end of the day, it’s supposed to be a Children’s Zoo and it passes that aspect with flying colors. Yes it’s not perfect but it is a much needed improvement to its previous iteration. Children and adults will find plenty to enjoy, I saw senior visitors having fun with their grandchildren crossing the suspension bridge or doing the rope course. The diversity of species that can be found here is nothing to scoff at and a major plus for it. A zoo within in the zoo, an massive array of vibrant colors, fun for all ages, and a must visit to my fellow Zoochatters. My score for what is supposed to be at it’s heart, a children’s zoo: 9.5 out of 10. I will say this again: this is the best project the zoo has done in the past 20 years and well worth the wait!
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I will fix them ASAP if you notice anything!
