The Primis Zoological Park | Concept

[Newt]

Greetings,

I've decided to transfer all original ideas and designs here, seeing as my original concept for the Primis Zoological Park has been further remodeled. I plan on updating this thread soon. If you'd like to view my original concept for the zoo, you're welcome to do so.

https://www.zoochat.com/community/threads/primis-zoo-a-scep-zoo-project.489416/

Please feel free to add suggestions and feedback as you will.

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The Primis Zoological Park is a zoological facility situated in upstate New York, USA, on a mere 360 acres (146 ha) of land, purposed to display a diverse and varied collection of animals within naturalistic habitats and exhibits. The zoo is divided among 26 varied sections/areas;

The American Discovery Trail
The American Discovery Centre
Aquatic Bird Port
The Mouse House
The Primate House
The Nocturnal House
World Of Birds
World Of Reptiles
Rainforest World
Expedition Congo
Expedition Madagascar
The Children's Zoo
Exploration Oceania
Scott’s Outback Reserve
Namibia Exploration Trail
Ethiopia Exploration Trail
Tanzania Research Reserve
The Zoo Centre
The Polar Frontier
Scott’s Asian Passage
Scott’s Asian Highlands
Smith’s Gibbon Reserve
The Altiplano Outpost
The Mato Grosso Outpost
The Mitchell Bat Centre
The Mitchell Exploration Centre

- Apologies for repetitiveness yet again, my naming skills are truly poor. I'd appreciate suggestions!

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[AndyJ08]

I think you have fine exhibit naming skills! Certainly better than my tendency to name standalone hoofstock exhibits “__ range” or taxonomic houses “___ world”. Besides that I really enjoy the detail in which you put into theming your exhibits; it isn’t often when areas in zoos as given so much detail (ie. your “Ethiopian trail” vs a generic “African Savanna”. Well done so far.

 

[Newt]

I think you have fine exhibit naming skills! Certainly better than my tendency to name standalone hoofstock exhibits “__ range” or taxonomic houses “___ world”. Besides that I really enjoy the detail in which you put into theming your exhibits; it isn’t often when areas in zoos as given so much detail (ie. your “Ethiopian trail” vs a generic “African Savanna”. Well done so far.

Much appreciated! I made an effort to avoid using terms like "___ range," "___ world," or "___ house," though there are a few instances where they do have their appeal.

 

[AndyJ08]

Much appreciated! I made an effort to avoid using terms like "___ range," "___ world," or "___ house," though there are a few instances where they do have their appeal.

I would suggest that in order to give your zoo a realistic feel, that you cut down on the number of exhibits that you want to open, as most zoos don’t have the space or funds for all the exhibits you proposed.
I’ve also got several ideas for realistic species lists for a few of the exhibits:

Mouse House:
Red-rumped Agouti
Lowland Paca
Long-tailed Chinchilla
Degu
Guinea Pig
Springhare
Northern Treeshrew
Southern Flying Squirrel
Prevosts’s Squirrel
Siberian Chipmunk
Barbary Striped Grass Mouse
African Pygmy Mouse
Egyptian Spiny Mouse
Lesser Egyptian Jerboa
Woodland Dormouse
Brown Rat
Mongolian Gerbil
Syrian Golden Hamster
Damaraland Mole Rat
Naked Mole Rat
Malagasy Giant Jumping Rat
Golden-rumped Elephant Shrew

Altiplano Outpost:
Cougar
Spectacled Bear
Guanaco
Llama
Long-tailed Chinchilla
Degu
Guinea Pig
Chilean Flamingo
Puna Teal
Chiloe Wigeon
Andean Condor
Turkey Vulture
Harris’s Hawk
Lake Titicaca Water Frog

 

[Newt]

I would suggest that in order to give your zoo a realistic feel, that you cut down on the number of exhibits that you want to open, as most zoos don’t have the space or funds for all the exhibits you proposed.
I’ve also got several ideas for realistic species lists for a few of the exhibits:

I'm aware of this, most of the "sections" I proposed are simply just smaller segments of bigger areas, for example; The Namibia Exploration Trail, Ethiopia Exploration Trail, and Tanzania Research Reserve, are all part of one area which is simply "Africa", same applies with most others.

Mouse House:
Red-rumped Agouti
Lowland Paca
Long-tailed Chinchilla
Degu
Guinea Pig
Springhare
Northern Treeshrew
Southern Flying Squirrel
Prevosts’s Squirrel
Siberian Chipmunk
Barbary Striped Grass Mouse
African Pygmy Mouse
Egyptian Spiny Mouse
Lesser Egyptian Jerboa
Woodland Dormouse
Brown Rat
Mongolian Gerbil
Syrian Golden Hamster
Damaraland Mole Rat
Naked Mole Rat
Malagasy Giant Jumping Rat
Golden-rumped Elephant Shrew

Altiplano Outpost:
Cougar
Spectacled Bear
Guanaco
Llama
Long-tailed Chinchilla
Degu
Guinea Pig
Chilean Flamingo
Puna Teal
Chiloe Wigeon
Andean Condor
Turkey Vulture
Harris’s Hawk
Lake Titicaca Water Frog

Most of this is already planned! The Altipano Outpost is nearly strictly outside, so the titicaca frogs will probably reside elsewhere.

 

[Van Beal]

Very nice to see Primis return!

 

[Newt]

THE AMERICAN DISCOVERY TRAIL

The American Discovery Trail is a guided trek through the key ecosystems and habitats of North America.

• Shortgrass Prairies [OS/IS]
• Tallgrass Prairies [OS]
• Coniferous Forests [OS]
• Eastern Oak Woodlands [OS]
• Western Oak Woodlands [OS/IS]
• Cypress Swamps [OS/IS]
• Salt Marshes [OS/IS]
• Tidal Marshes [OS/IS]

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SHORTGRASS PRAIRIES
Shortgrass prairies are ecosystems characterized by low-growing grasses thriving in arid to semi-arid regions with limited annual precipitation. These prairies, predominantly found in the central and western Great Plains of North America, support a unique assemblage of drought-adapted flora and fauna, including burrowing mammals and ground-nesting birds. Their nutrient-rich soils make them vital for both native biodiversity and agricultural use, though they are increasingly threatened by land conversion and climate change.

• Coyote (Canis Latrans)
• Kit Fox (Vulpes Macrotis)
• Swift Fox (Vulpes Velox)
• Pronghorn (Antilocapra Americana)
• American Bison (Bison Bison)
• American Badger (Taxidea Taxus)
• Black-Footed Ferret (Mustela Nigripes)
• Black-Tailed Prairie Dog (Cynomys Ludovicianus)
• Wild Turkey (Meleagris Gallopavo)
• Northern Harrier (Circus Hudsonius)
• Red-Tailed Hawk (Buteo Jamaicensis)
• Ferruginous Hawk (Buteo Regalis)
• Western Meadowlark (Sturnella Neglecta)
• Greater Prairie Chicken (Tympanuchus Cupido)
• Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene Ornata)

Total Species | 15
Total Individuals | 70

THE BISON YARD
The Bison Yard spans 5 acres (217,800 sq. ft), enclosed by 7-foot (2.1 m) high-tensile wire steel fencing that completely surrounds the perimeter. The yard is bordered by natural woodlands, with the fence line marking the transition between the wooded area and the habitat. There are two viewpoints within the yard, both at ground level and approximately 6 feet (1.8 m) from the animals. The first viewpoint is located at the front of the yard, while the second is situated on the left side. Only about a quarter of the yard is visible to visitors, as the dense woodland and fence placement obscure the remaining three-quarters of the area. The yard is home to two iconic American species: the 0:14 American Bison (Bison Bison) and the 0:8 Wild Turkey (Meleagris Gallopavo). Though the turkeys roam freely, as they are native to the region, all individuals on the property are tagged but tend to stay within the enclosure. The landscape features scattered rocks, rock piles, branches, and a cluster of trees at the center of the yard. Within small pockets the bison are generally inactive, ornamental grasses such as Prairie Junegrass (Koeleria macrantha) and Bluebunch Wheatgrass (Pseudoroegneria spicata) thrive in the yard, providing both aesthetic value and foraging opportunities for the turkeys.

American Bison | Photo by @Pleistohorse

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THE PRONGHORN YARD
The Pronghorn Yard is a 1.5-acre (65,340 sq. ft) enclosure bordered by 4-foot (1.2 m) multi-strand hotwire fencing, which spans almost the entirety of the perimeter. Similar to the adjacent Bison Yard, the outer boundary is surrounded by natural woodland that transitions to the fence line, contributing to the enclosed, immersive feel of the habitat. The yard features two ground-level viewing areas positioned nearly opposite each other, separated by a dense patch of foliage. Most of the yard is visible from these viewpoints, with a small portion intentionally left secluded to provide privacy for the animals. The habitat primarily houses 1:6 Pronghorn (Antilocapra Americana Americana), with Wild Turkeys (Meleagris Gallopavo) occasionally entering as they naturally move between the yards. The landscape is largely open, featuring sparse vegetation, with a central pocket of trees providing shade and a focal point. While less vegetatively dense than the Bison Yard, patches of native grasses and forbs are present, mimicking the pronghorn’s natural grazing environment.

Pronhorn | Photo by @RatioTile

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PREDATORS OF THE PRAIRIE
Predators of the Prairie is a segment showcasing seven iconic predatory avian and mammalian species that thrive in the expansive prairie ecosystem. The segment begins a short walk past the Pronghorn Yard, approximately 1–2 minutes along the main path. A bronze coyote statue marks the entrance, offering a hint of the exhibit ahead. Just a few steps beyond, a rustic, cabin-like structure is nestled within the woodlands, slightly recessed from the path. Inside, three large glass panels, each 6 feet (1.8 m) wide and 7 feet (2.1 m) tall, provide panoramic views of the exhibit. The 0.3 Coyote (Canis Latrans) exhibit covers 0.06 acres (2,500 sq. ft) and is enclosed by 8-foot (2.4 m) welded mesh fencing, which surrounds nearly the entire perimeter, stopping only at the indoor quarters and viewing cabin. Unlike hoofstock enclosures, the exhibit features dense prairie vegetation, including Buffalo Grass (Bouteloua Dactyloides), Bluejoint Grass (Calamagrostis Canadensis), Canada Wild Rye (Elymus Canadensis), and other native and ornamental grasses. The habitat’s centerpiece is a slightly elevated rock pile, designed to resemble a natural hill, which serves as a focal point for coyote activity. A den-like structure is integrated beneath the pile, providing a secluded resting spot. Scattered rocks, branches, and other natural elements add texture and enrichment to the environment, encouraging natural behaviors such as climbing, foraging, and scent marking.

Coyote | Photo by @Brayden Delashmutt

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A short walk past the previous exhibit leads to an intersection shrouded by dense woodland foliage, effectively obscuring visibility between the diverging paths. Taking the path to the right, you arrive at an 8-foot (2.4 m) drop-down enclosure measuring approximately 0.02 acres (1,000 sq. ft). The perimeter is fully enclosed by a 6-foot concrete wall, with the viewing area spanning the entire front of the exhibit. This is the 1.1 American Badger (Taxidea Taxus) refuge. The habitat within contrasts sharply with its surroundings, appearing desolate and sparsely vegetated. Only hardy weeds like Chickweed (Stellaria Media) and Nutsedge (Cyperus Rotundus) persist. Scattered branches, snags, and clusters of medium-to-large rocks create a rugged landscape, with some formations providing naturalistic burrow opportunities. The design reflects the stark and adaptable environment suited to its occupant’s lifestyle.

American Badger | Photo by @Julio C Castro

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On the opposing path to the left, a series of three identical aviaries stands in sequence. Each aviary measures approximately 20 feet wide, 20 feet tall, and 30 feet long, featuring curved tops and secured with high-tensile wire. Light protective tarps are positioned between the aviaries, reducing visibility between occupants to prevent stress and injury. All viewing areas are ground level, offering clear perspectives into the habitats. Each aviary replicates a consistent theme tailored to its respective occupant's natural environment. The first aviary houses 1:0 Northern Harriers (Circus Hudsonius), the second features 1:1 Red-Tailed Hawks (Buteo Jamaicensis), and the third is home to 1:1 Ferruginous Hawks (Buteo Regalis). Shared elements across the aviaries include in-ground turtle tubs serving as water sources, a rugged landscape adorned with various rocks, and vegetation such as White-Tinged Sedge (Carex albicans), Pennsylvania Sedge (Carex Pensylvanica), and Nutsedge (Cyperus Rotundus). Within the hawk aviaries, one or two Dwarf Chinquapin Oaks (Quercus Prinoides) provide additional structure and shade, while all enclosures feature makeshift perches constructed from dead branches and snags. The design emphasizes naturalistic elements, encouraging species-appropriate behavior and comfort.

Red-Tailed Hawk | Photo by @Pleistohorse

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Adjacent to the final aviary housing the Ferruginous Hawk, the entrance to the building becomes accessible. The entrance features a sleek triangular design composed entirely of glass, creating a striking and modern aesthetic. A glass transom seamlessly spans above the doorway, with surrounding glass panels framing the entrance for a cohesive architectural statement. Inside, the interior is dimly lit, with light primarily emanating from the right-side exhibit, and occasionally from the left, depending on the time of day. On the left, nearest the entrance, a 10-foot-wide, 12-foot-long, and 8-foot-high indoor exhibit is elevated 4ft (1.2m) above the ground. This space belongs to the 0.2 Black-Footed Ferret (Mustela Nigripes). The exhibit features a rugged terrain dotted with scattered rocks, dead twigs, and branches, as well as a small snag cascading partially across the space. A notable highlight is the makeshift burrow system built 1ft (0.3m) against the glass, allowing the ferrets to interact with their environment at their leisure. Completing the design, a realistic mural, harmonizing with the terrain and layout of the exhibit, decorates the back and side walls to enhance the immersive experience.

Black-Footed Ferret | Photo by @Andrew_NZP

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GROUND & SKY
Ground & Sky is an exhibit within the Shortgrass Prairies building, designed to highlight the coexistence between terrestrial and avian species. Across from the ferret exhibit is a brightly-lit, 20-foot-wide, 20-foot-long habitat featuring a curved back wall adorned with a realistic mural that wraps around the space. The viewing wall is designed with a unique viewing optimization, rising only 2 feet (0.6 m) from the ground and descending from the ceiling, providing an unobstructed view for visitors. The ground is primarily composed of dirt, clusters of rocks, and pebbles, accented with scattered snags, branches, and twigs. These elements serve both as naturalistic adornments and functional perches. Two larger snags converge at the end of their branches, creating a visually intricate structure. Foliage is sparsely planted along the habitat's edges, while the center remains predominantly open, featuring vegetation such as Indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutans), Blue Hair Grass (Koeleria Glauca), Western Wheatgrass (Pascopyrum Smithii), and other prairie grasses. The branches provide perching opportunities for the 1:4 Western Meadowlark (Sturnella Neglecta), while the ground is home to the 0:3 Ornate Box Turtle (Terrapene Ornata Ornata). The two species coexist peacefully due to minimal interaction in their shared space.

Ornate Box Turtle | Photo by @ThylacineAlive

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Other noted exhibits are currently being worked on!