Ape Islands, 11 December 2013

More evidence for Paignton's eligibility for 'best ape enclosure in the UK'. Four orangutans clearly visible outside - Mali & Tatau on the platform and Demo and Gambira on the bridge. Chinta was visible inside in the showden. The gorilla island is in the background.

Gigit said:

More evidence for Paignton's eligibility for 'best ape enclosure in the UK'.

Click to expand...

I would moderate that to 'best outdoor ape enclosure in the UK'.

Pertinax said:

I would moderate that to 'best outdoor ape enclosure in the UK'.

Click to expand...

Yes, I can accept that

I'm glad to see Mali climbing well, but I can't help thinking that it would be better if the orangs didn't have to walk across the bridges. I also think that the health of the trees, particularly on the smaller island, is severely compromised. I like the exhibit, but it could still be improved.

Alan

The smaller island is indeed in need of some attention - climbing frames, ropes, a shelter... It has to be used now that the orangs are maturing and breeding. They have become more antisocial so keeping them as a group is no longer possible.

The keepers have to use the bridges, although it would be interesting to see them going across on ropes

gentle lemur said:

I'm glad to see Mali climbing well, but I can't help thinking that it would be better if the orangs didn't have to walk across the bridges. I also think that the health of the trees, particularly on the smaller island, is severely compromised. I like the exhibit, but it could still be improved.

Alan

Click to expand...

Totally agree, Alan. It seems such a shame that the Orangs can't swing or climb over.

Could sway poles be added along the bridges? In my experience orang-utans make good use of them and learn quickly how to travel around their exhibits with them.

Sway poles could be a great addition here. In order to reach the trees on the main island, the Orangs are largely 'grounded' when they travel back and forth.

I think both islands could benefit from some sway poles to augment the trees, and perhaps give them a break from over-enthusiastic pruning by the orangs. I'm sure all sorts of improvements could be made if they had the finances.