The Future of Zoos Victoria 2024 (Speculation/Fantasy)

[The Sleepy Hippo]

Black and white colobus vs De Brazza’s:

I feel like a walk through colobus exhibit is something that could be considered for Treetops. Colobus are well suited to this set up (London has a fantastic exhibit) and their troop size of around 10-15 individuals max means they can support a natural social grouping without crowding the exhibit space. Colobus are also more arboreal than De Brazza’s.

De Brazza’s would be a much better fit for the old Mandrill exhibit imo. A small troop of 4-5 could easily be housed here; though consideration would have to be given on the merits of retaining this exhibit versus building an additional Pygmy hippopotamus pool. As previously mentioned, the infrastructure is ageing and renewal may be on the cards.

I'd say they could make a mixed exhibit with De Brazzas and Pygmy Hippo. If they put a little money and effort in, they could make three exhibits for Pygmy Hippo (the existing two and a third in an adapted Mandrills exhibit, and then have the De Brazza have two exhibits - the adapted Mandrills, and a combined existing Pygmy Hippo. This would allow two groupings, or down the track two separate primate species.

And maybe a large walk through Colobus exhibit could also include African Grey Parrots and some other appropriate bird species.

 

[Zoofan15]

I'd say they could make a mixed exhibit with De Brazzas and Pygmy Hippo. If they put a little money and effort in, they could make three exhibits for Pygmy Hippo (the existing two and a third in an adapted Mandrills exhibit, and then have the De Brazza have two exhibits - the adapted Mandrills, and a combined existing Pygmy Hippo. This would allow two groupings, or down the track two separate primate species.

That’s a great idea. It would be useful to have the space to manage a split off troop (likely a bachelor troop) and having three Pygmy hippopotamus exhibits would increase their holding capacity.

Presumably new/supporting off display Pygmy hippopotamus pools would be in the plans, which would allow the retention of calves into adulthood. This would be important as with the IRA nearing completion, Melbourne bred calves may not be as in demand as anticipated; and in any case, increased holding capacity could enable an increased number of breeding recommendations to a facility able to manage this.

 

[The Sleepy Hippo]

That’s a great idea. It would be useful to have the space to manage a split off troop (likely a bachelor troop) and having three Pygmy hippopotamus exhibits would increase their holding capacity. Presumably new/supporting off display Pygmy hippopotamus pools would be in the plans, which would allow the retention of calves into adulthood. This would be important as with the IRA nearing completion, Melbourne bred calves may not be as in demand as anticipated.

Off display pools would be a good idea, and potentially space could be found at Werribee for excess calves, whether on display or not.

 

[Zoofan15]

Off display pools would be a good idea, and potentially space could be found at Werribee for excess calves, whether on display or not.

It’ll be interesting to see if there’s any interest overseas in importing Australian bred Pygmy hippopotamus. Our current population descends from US lines, but the most recent founder was imported over 40 years ago; and the others in the 1950’s. Since then, those blood lines would have been significantly diversified.

Case in point Ramah and Zayana are Nico/Meta descendants via their daughter Kali (full sister of Shiva and Jambi) yet are among the region’s most genetically valuable tigers.

 

[Jambo]

It’ll be interesting to see if there’s any interest overseas in importing Australian bred Pygmy hippopotamus. Our current population descends from US lines, but the most recent founder was imported over 40 years ago; and the others in the 1950’s. Since then, those blood lines would have been significantly diversified.

Case in point Ramah and Zayana are Nico/Meta descendants via their daughter Kali (full sister of Shiva and Jambi) yet are among the region’s most genetically valuable tigers.

I would certainly think so - we just haven't had the surplus to be able to send any over. I don't foresee any change to this too, as all current zoo's with their pygmy hippos will be looking to retain their current individuals to pair with new individuals.

Exception of course is Fergus and Kambiri who's future calves may attract interest but I imagine they will get placements within the region, depending on how often they are allowed to breed.

One thing I do anticipate is other holders coming on board too with this species; Sydney Zoo wanted hippos, perhaps they'll pivot to Pygmy's.

 

[Jambo]

Off display pools would be a good idea, and potentially space could be found at Werribee for excess calves, whether on display or not.

When Melbourne does get to the point where they do upgrade the current facilities, they'll certainly add additional off display facilities. An off display paddock isn't out of question; but they are jammed into the bottom of the zoo where there is limited space.

If the Treetops were to be renovated, the species currently there will have to be moved elsewhere. The WC Gibbons will likely be moved across to the Japanese Island as previously discussed. Kipenzi could be sent across to Canberra/Adelaide to join their breeding group, with the idea of replacing her eventually once a new exhibit is built. The Amazon Aviary could accommodate the pair of Emperor Tamarins (although I'm not sure how well they'd cohabit with the macaws there).

That just leaves the Spider Monkeys who are really the odd ones out here. Phase out has been suggested, but I'd hate for them to leave with the already depleting collection. If we assume the Binturong do go into the TOTE, that would leave that exhibit empty. Yes, they don't fit the theming there but it's really the only on display exhibit they could realistically go into in the mean time.

 

[Swanson02]

Any theories for replacements for elephants they will most likely be small animals that will be replacing the elephants as I asked the keeper
my theory is to get more cat species

My theory is that we are most likely going to be disappointed with whatever setup replaces the elephants. Melbourne Zoo in general hasn't really shown much initiative in the last 5-10 years and the fact that most of these plans still seem undecided when we are less than 12 months from the elephants vacating the area, is worrying to me.

Taronga, Perth and Auckland have all provided way more information on what will be replacing their elephants even though timewise they are further away.

• Taronga - Indian Rhino and Water Buffalo
• Perth - Expanded African Savanna
• Auckland - Expanded Savanna (White Rhino breeding specifically)
• Melbourne - Sweet Nothing

If I were to wager what Management's plans are for the area -

• An expanded Orangutan complex, with a new outdoor exhibit connected via elevated climbing frames (Most likely encapsulating the old bull exhibit)
• A new Siamang/Gibbon exhibit (In the old Pool Exhibit)
• A new seating area/playground for the Mek Kapah Cafe
• The barn will be converted into an education or maybe a new function centre for Weddings and events at the Zoo
• Maybe a komodo dragon exhibit
• Maybe one other new species to the zoo like Clouded Leopard or something on the smaller side

This is still progressive and rejuvenates the zoo, however is highly underwhelming compared to what I think some of us are wishing for.

 

[Zoofan15]

My theory is that we are most likely going to be disappointed with whatever setup replaces the elephants. Melbourne Zoo in general hasn't really shown much initiative in the last 5-10 years and the fact that most of these plans still seem undecided when we are less than 12 months from the elephants vacating the area, is worrying to me.

Taronga, Perth and Auckland have all provided way more information on what will be replacing their elephants even though timewise they are further away.

• Taronga - Indian Rhino and Water Buffalo
• Perth - Expanded African Savanna
• Auckland - Expanded Savanna (White Rhino breeding specifically)
• Melbourne - Sweet Nothing

If I were to wager what Management's plans are for the area -

• An expanded Orangutan complex, with a new outdoor exhibit connected via elevated climbing frames (Most likely encapsulating the old bull exhibit)
• A new Siamang/Gibbon exhibit (In the old Pool Exhibit)
• A new seating area/playground for the Mek Kapah Cafe
• The barn will be converted into an education or maybe a new function centre for Weddings and events at the Zoo
• Maybe a komodo dragon exhibit
• Maybe one other new species to the zoo like Clouded Leopard or something on the smaller side

This is still progressive and rejuvenates the zoo, however is highly underwhelming compared to what I think some of us are wishing for.

I certainly agree that whatever eventuates will be underwhelming compared to what our imaginations have conjured up over the past couple of years. We’ve discussed everything from Indian rhinoceros paddocks; to Malayan tapirs in the elephant barn; to Sloth bear mountain.

The latest information suggests an expansion of the orangutan exhibit (likely in the form of an aerial pathway) is likely; combined with a series of small exhibits. What these will take the form of is anyone’s guess, but Clouded leopard, Komodo dragon and Binturong remain a high likelihood in my opinion.

Whatever eventuates, I really hope more visitor amenities aren’t in the plans. As long as it’s not playgrounds, cafes and function centres, I’ll be happy.

 

[Zoofan15]

I would certainly think so - we just haven't had the surplus to be able to send any over. I don't foresee any change to this too, as all current zoo's with their pygmy hippos will be looking to retain their current individuals to pair with new individuals.

Exception of course is Fergus and Kambiri who's future calves may attract interest but I imagine they will get placements within the region, depending on how often they are allowed to breed.

One thing I do anticipate is other holders coming on board too with this species; Sydney Zoo wanted hippos, perhaps they'll pivot to Pygmy's.

I’ll be really interested to see the interest around importing Pygmy hippopotamus once the IRA is approved. Unlike Common hippopotamus, where an absence of males necessitates an import to continue breeding; we have the numbers (especially with the birth of a second surviving female calf at Taronga) to continue breeding Pygmy hippopotamus.

Kamina and Lololi could be paired with Felix and Obi and a second and third breeding pair created. Numerous ungulates such as a Indian antelope, Barbary sheep and giraffe are routinely inbred in the region (despite the latter being able to be imported into New Zealand); and the formerly large Collared peccary population descended from a single pair, inbred over many generations. While I hope overseas Pygmy hippopotamus imports are in the plans, it’s by no means a given in my opinion.

 

[Jambo]

I’ll be really interested to see the interest around importing Pygmy hippopotamus once the IRA is approved. Unlike Common hippopotamus, where an absence of males necessitates an import to continue breeding; we have the numbers (especially with the birth of a second surviving female calf at Taronga) to continue breeding Pygmy hippopotamus.

Kamina and Lololi could be paired with Felix and Obi and a second and third breeding pair created. Numerous ungulates such as a Indian antelope, Barbary sheep and giraffe are routinely inbred in the region (despite the latter being able to be imported into New Zealand); and the formerly large Collared peccary population descended from a single pair, inbred over many generations. While I hope overseas Pygmy hippopotamus imports are in the plans, it’s by no means a given in my opinion.

At least we know Darling Downs are hoping to acquire a mate for Kamina via imports!

Melbourne will also likely acquire Lololi once she reaches the adequate age (possibly sometime next year). They're the only regional facility with the space at the moment, and I wouldn't be surprised if we do end up seeing her paired with Felix down the line.

 

[Zoofan15]

At least we know Darling Downs are hoping to acquire a mate for Kamina via imports!

Melbourne will also likely acquire Lololi once she reaches the adequate age (possibly sometime next year). They're the only regional facility with the space at the moment, and I wouldn't be surprised if we do end up seeing her paired with Felix down the line.

If Darling Downs Zoo import a male, then unless a second import within the region follows; the only Pygmy hippopotami more valuable than that male will be his offspring (until he becomes sufficiently represented). With this in mind, Darling Downs Zoo could become the breeding hub of this species for the foreseeable.

The fact female hippopotamus aren’t subject to the sterility issues that afflict rhinos, elephants and zebras is a double edged sword. It’s allowed lines to be preserved (Petre producing her first offspring at 24 years of age to continue her line for example); but it’s a regional population derived from a very small number of founders. Compare this to the Southern white rhinoceros population, where cows are more erratic in reproductive performance; but there’s consequently been a wealth of founders (even factoring in their semi-social nature that lends them to cohabiting).

 

[ReturnOfPaddyRick]

I certainly agree that whatever eventuates will be underwhelming compared to what our imaginations have conjured up over the past couple of years. We’ve discussed everything from Indian rhinoceros paddocks; to Malayan tapirs in the elephant barn; to Sloth bear mountain.

The latest information suggests an expansion of the orangutan exhibit (likely in the form of an aerial pathway) is likely; combined with a series of small exhibits. What these will take the form of is anyone’s guess, but Clouded leopard, Komodo dragon and Binturong remain a high likelihood in my opinion.

Whatever eventuates, I really hope more visitor amenities aren’t in the plans. As long as it’s not playgrounds, cafes and function centres, I’ll be happy.

Ahh, good ol’ sloth bear mountain

 

[Zoofan15]

Ahh, good ol’ sloth bear mountain

A modern day Mappin Terraces!

When Mappin Terraces opened in 1913, bears (along with big cats, elephants and great apes) reigned supreme in terms of public popularity; 111 years on and very little has changed.

I for one would love to see Melbourne Zoo showcase this amazing ursid in a modern complex. They’re relatively easy to breed and would be one of the few species to rival elephants that aren’t already exhibited at Melbourne Zoo. Combined with Sri Lankan leopard (and a few other species) and this would be phenomenal.

Realistic, probably not. But in my opinion, this remains an exciting concept.

 

[tetrapod]

I for one would love to see Melbourne Zoo showcase this amazing ursid in a modern complex. They’re relatively easy to breed and would be one of the few species to rival elephants that aren’t already exhibited at Melbourne Zoo.

Why are you under the assumption that sloth bears are easy to breed? Breeding any bear species is far from a certainty, especially within the confines of a city zoo. The situation with the Australian sun bear zoo population is evident enough.
While I agree that bears are an important zoo attraction, there is no way that they compare to the drawing power of elephants. However I still think a bear species would be a worthwhile addition to MZ's collection.

 

[Zoofan15]

Why are you under the assumption that sloth bears are easy to breed? Breeding any bear species is far from a certainty, especially within the confines of a city zoo. The situation with the Australian sun bear zoo population is evident enough.
While I agree that bears are an important zoo attraction, there is no way that they compare to the drawing power of elephants. However I still think a bear species would be a worthwhile addition to MZ's collection.

I said Sloth bears were relatively easy to breed. This is in comparison to sun bears (which we’ve discussed a lot in this thread), with both North America and Australiasia failing to maintain sustainable populations. Many city zoos throughout Europe and North America have had success breeding Sloth bears.

I agree elephants are hard to beat. The combination of bears and leopards would be phenomenal; but nothing but a dream when the most likely outcome is an expansion to the orangutan facility and a handful of smaller species.

 

[The Sleepy Hippo]

I was thinking - something that won't happen, but I think would be a good thing - would be for the Great Flight Aviary to become a part of the future TOTE exhibit, featuring South East Asian bird species, and for a section of TOTE to become part of a slightly larger Gorilla Rainforest circuit.

The entirety of the rest of Australian Bush should be a large (potentially segmented) walk through aviary. The track in Australian Bush could be made a slightly elevated boardwalk, and all animal enclosures could be remade to appear like they are just one big enclosure, with hidden barriers between animals they don't want mixing.

I think this could allow a better balance between circuits, and allow a few more enclosures in Gorilla Rainforest.

 

[Zoofan15]

I was thinking - something that won't happen, but I think would be a good thing - would be for the Great Flight Aviary to become a part of the future TOTE exhibit, featuring South East Asian bird species, and for a section of TOTE to become part of a slightly larger Gorilla Rainforest circuit.

The entirety of the rest of Australian Bush should be a large (potentially segmented) walk through aviary. The track in Australian Bush could be made a slightly elevated boardwalk, and all animal enclosures could be remade to appear like they are just one big enclosure, with hidden barriers between animals they don't want mixing.

I think this could allow a better balance between circuits, and allow a few more enclosures in Gorilla Rainforest.

That sounds reasonable considering a handful of the Australian birds can be accommodated in smaller aviaries around the zoo; with the majority able to be seen at Healesville.

Western lowland gorillas have long been one of Melbourne’s flagship species and will become even more instrumental in their role as crowd-pullers following the departure of the elephants. What better time to capitalise on this than expanding the gorilla facilities. Import some females to bolster numbers in the breeding troop; and build at least one additional exhibit to house bachelor males, allowing regular breeding in the main troop for at least a decade.

From here, they could consider phasing out gorillas from Werribee in favour of housing a large troop of Hamadryas baboon in that exhibit. The gorilla exhibit will be overshadowed by the elephant complex at Werribee either way; and I honestly believe a bustling troop of baboons would be just as popular. The social dynamics are fascinating to watch.

 

[The Sleepy Hippo]

That sounds reasonable considering a handful of the Australian birds can be accommodated in smaller aviaries around the zoo; with the majority able to be seen at Healesville.

Western lowland gorillas have long been one of Melbourne’s flagship species and will become even more instrumental in their role as crowd-pullers following the departure of the elephants. What better time to capitalise on this than expanding the gorilla facilities. Import some females to bolster numbers in the breeding troop; and build at least one additional exhibit to house bachelor males, allowing regular breeding in the main troop for at least a decade.

From here, they could consider phasing out gorillas from Werribee in favour of housing a large troop of Hamadryas baboon in that exhibit. The gorilla exhibit will be overshadowed by the elephant complex at Werribee either way; and I honestly believe a bustling troop of baboons would be just as popular. The social dynamics are fascinating to watch.

I mean that the entirety of Australian bush could become an enormous aviary. Build it over all existing vegetation, with all native birds flying freely within Australian Bush precinct.
It's achievable. Australian Bush is roughly the same size as the average Bird Paradise Singapore size

 

[Zoofan15]

I mean that the entirety of Australian bush could become an enormous aviary. Build it over all existing vegetation, with all native birds flying freely within Australian Bush precinct.
It's achievable. Australian Bush is roughly the same size as the average Bird Paradise Singapore size

Definitely. Tasmanian devils are no longer housed in the precinct and certain species such as tree kangaroos can’t be brought in without threat to the birds; but the majority of Australian marsupials can cohabit without issue. In any case, seperate walk throughs can function as smaller annexes if there’s any interest in displaying tree kangaroo for example; or predatory birds held in enclosed exhibits away from the public and potential prey.

 

[Jambo]

I was thinking - something that won't happen, but I think would be a good thing - would be for the Great Flight Aviary to become a part of the future TOTE exhibit, featuring South East Asian bird species, and for a section of TOTE to become part of a slightly larger Gorilla Rainforest circuit.

The entirety of the rest of Australian Bush should be a large (potentially segmented) walk through aviary. The track in Australian Bush could be made a slightly elevated boardwalk, and all animal enclosures could be remade to appear like they are just one big enclosure, with hidden barriers between animals they don't want mixing.

I think this could allow a better balance between circuits, and allow a few more enclosures in Gorilla Rainforest.

Expansion of the Gorilla Rainforest was also something I was considering with the elephants leaving. Obviously it would be preferable if Melbourne upgraded their gorilla facilities long term; a new indoor area would be nice and a second enclosure could also help accommodate future breeding. When you add the Pygmy Hippo enclosures (which are in need of an extension), the empty Mandrill enclosure and the depleting Treetop Monkey trail, the whole precinct probably needs a make-over.

Expansion of the Pygmy Hippo and Gorilla complexes should be priorities and this would probably take up the entirety of the current Gorilla Rainforest. In that case, why not redevelop the Great Flight Aviary for the primates from the Treetop trail. Minus the WC Gibbons, they really only have four species to accommodate; Spider Monkeys, Black and White Colobus, Emperor Tamarins and Squirrel Monkeys (assuming they vacate their current enclosure in TOTE). Colobus could have the last section (where Zillie currently is), the Emperor Tamarins could have an island in the middle wetland section and the Spider Monkeys and Squirrel Monkeys could share the initial woodland section. Exotic birds could be transferred in; such as the Parrots from the Amazon Aviary. That aviary could then be used to accommodate any other native birds Melbourne still wishes to keep.