It actually looks like a set from the original "Star Trek" featuring a "zoo" for aliens (like Captain Kirk) on a distant planet. How awful for the orang(s) that have to live in this literal pit.
I am very claustrophobic and must say it didn't feel like you were closed in or in a pit at all!
My opinion of it has changes alot after going in it I must say! It is much better than I thought.
It is very deceptively large inside, and very sheltered and warm. The orangs have access all night to the outside area and the cave is heated.
Tiga at the moment is trying to destroy the little planting that is in there and I did speak to the keeper about the lack of planting. she said they are waiting to see how they settle in to it.
I agree, this is not the best enclosure for Orangutans but then this is Colchester and they do seem to have there own style of horrible looking enclosures (not necessarily bad for the inmates but horrible to look at)