I much prefer the open-topped and I presume newer primate exhibits at Howletts. As long as there are loads of climbing opportunities for the monkeys, and adequate shade, food, water and enrichment devices, then an open-topped enclosure is much more natural for the animals. Such exhibits can also be more educational, as the primates can actually be seen without visitors peering through dense wire, habits can be viewed without obstructions, and there is a sense of freedom without any negativity from those that are watching the antics of the primates.
I much prefer the open-topped and I presume newer primate exhibits at Howletts. As long as there are loads of climbing opportunities for the monkeys, and adequate shade, food, water and enrichment devices, then an open-topped enclosure is much more natural for the animals. Such exhibits can also be more educational, as the primates can actually be seen without visitors peering through dense wire, habits can be viewed without obstructions, and there is a sense of freedom without any negativity from those that are watching the antics of the primates.
commenting on what is more natural for the animals
These are most likely captive born. Aspinalls parks as has been pointed out by Redpanda. Really do need to be experianced first hand before commenting on.
The parks have never really tried imersion exhibiting. They have however always tried to meet the needs of the animal first the public second. This has obviously worked out very well for the animal.
The educational value of these exhibits can only once again be trully assessed in person.
Given experiance and oprtunity l am sure that all Aspinall animals would vote there enclosures "Number 1"
commenting on what is more natural for the animals
These are most likely captive born. Aspinalls parks as has been pointed out by Redpanda. Really do need to be experianced first hand before commenting on.
The parks have never really tried imersion exhibiting. They have however always tried to meet the needs of the animal first the public second. This has obviously worked out very well for the animal.
The educational value of these exhibits can only once again be trully assessed in person.
Given experiance and oprtunity l am sure that all Aspinall animals would vote there enclosures "Number 1"
That is true , i completely agree , indeed snow leopard would benefit from seeing Howletts. That is also very true about Howletts always putting the animal before the zoo going public.
During the summer when the trees are in leaf, this enclosure for Lion-tailed macaques presents a most attractive sight and is one of the best primate enclosures I've seen. Even the growing trees are unprotected so the Monkeys can go in them.
Lion-tailed Macaque is a new species for Howletts- the group of about ten animals was imported from Germany.
