Has it been definitely determined if hippos are being booted from the Oregon Zoo collection? If so, is the plan still to expand the rhino exhibit into this area?
Has it been definitely determined if hippos are being booted from the Oregon Zoo collection? If so, is the plan still to expand the rhino exhibit into this area?
Oregon Zoo is phasing out hippos, sea lions and sea otters and by shutting those three exhibits the zoo will save a small fortune in terms of water filtration and the upkeep of those expensive species. At one point I received an email from the zoo asking me to vote on whether to maintain black rhinos or hippos in the collection and I am curious to know which species the public voted for. I chose hippos but only with the stipulation that there be underwater viewing, but if that was not possible then black rhinos were the way to go.
Steller Cove (sea lions and sea otters) will be phased out and replaced by a South American complex (see pages 66-67 of the document below). There will be a tapir/primate section and a Humboldt Penguin exhibit. The 243-page Master Plan is actually one of the most detailed that I've ever seen, with countless maps and images that are fairly accurate as a great deal of work has already been completed at this evolving zoo.
Steller's are gone and have been replaced by Harbor Seal. You can still see female Steller's at Mystic Aquarium or venture to Alaska Sealife Center to see their group.
Steller's are gone and have been replaced by Harbor Seal. You can still see female Steller's at Mystic Aquarium or venture to Alaska Sealife Center to see their group.
Vancouver Aquarium had 4 Steller's Sea Lions when I was there just a few days ago and they were a vocal, spectacular exhibit. Does that mean there are only 3 North American establishments with the species? Anywhere else still have them?
Good to know about VancAq! Any Bulls? Haven't followed that aquarium much since 'Danger Bay'. Shame that there are such few facilities in N. A. with them. Seems Europe and Asia have more facilities. Mystic has .2 and I believe, ASLC has 1.2? Maybe another cow? They seem to get overshadowed as of late in N. A. by Cali' SL. Mass stranding event has supplied two dozen or more to Zoos and Aquariums in N. A. There has also been a lot of Cali' SL pups born recently. Maybe the size differential and habitation of Cali' SL is better in N. A.? No idea. With the recent new exhibits for them, and ones still coming, Cali'SL will be around for many years to come. The recent Georgia Aquarium Sea Lion exhibit is a joke. It is a "show" of sorts. Amphitheater with a pool like Saint Louis Cali'SL stadium.
