Unless there are plans to plant a few small trees in (I believe a small pool is also going to be installed), I'm not too crazy about the renovation so far. The wood structure really took away the naturalism (it wasn't very naturalistic at first, but there at least used to be a few small trees that were hot-wired off in the middle of the exhibit). Though at least the climbing opportunities for the apes are quite improved.
I know the outdoor exhibits for Apes of Africa are new (bonobos - 2011, gorilla renovation - this year), but personally I'd still like to see completely new habitats that take advantage of the forest that surrounds the building (that goes for the next-door Primates of the World residents too).
I have to agree with you, Milwaukee Man. There is so much forest space that they could be using to make some pretty great naturalistic exhibits (especially surrounding the primate buildings) but aren't. Possibly in the future...
