Okay, I can't help myself. What in this exhibit can even vaguely be described as "brilliant?" The ugly platform, which was added after the fact to ameliorate the lack of trees or other natural climbing opportunities? The ugly fake stream that "so naturally" is HIGHER than all of the surrounding ground? The barren back barrier wall? The fact that in contravention of the basic principles of modern zoo design, the visitors look DOWN into a pit with animals? Is there anything about this exhibit that even hints at the beauty, complexity and grandeur of the real Ituri Forest in the Congo?
I'll grant the mix of species is interesting, and it's always enjoyable to bask in San Diego's balmy weather. But beyond that....
Sorry Snowleopard--I couldn't let this one go, but I know you can take it!
@reduakari: we know each other from private messages, and your top 12 zoos list is almost identical to mine so I trust your judgement. Also, I bash zoo exhibits all the time on here so I would never stop anyone from doing the same...haha. However, there are many San Diego supporters here at ZooChat that will always defend their #1 zoo and I am no exception. The Ituri Forest overall (mixed-species exhibit in the photo, okapi, hippo, etc) is for the most part quite brilliant in my mind, with many top notch habitats for a variety of animals. That area of the zoo, with the pygmy hippo/slender-snouted croc pools, gorilla tropics, bonobos, monkey trails, tiger river, huge aviaries, etc, contains a wealth of amazing animals and enclosures.
The otter/guenon/swamp monkey exhibit in the photo is great because there are species on both sides of the expansive visitor boardwalk, which is large enough to allow a congregation of visitors. The otters in particular are a joy to watch, and I have no problems with the design of the stream as it winds itself quite nicely through the enclosure. The little hut is fine as well, and is extensively used by the monkeys for shade and to escape the inquisitive otters! The back wall is a little unsightly, and you know that I love moated islands and so would have preferred that appearance in the enclosure. The lack of climbing opportunities is not overly alarming but I agree that a large tree or two would have fit in better than the ropes and dead tree trunks.
The exhibit works well because it does have at least a decent number of hiding places under the lush, green plants dotted around the enclosure, there is fantastic interaction between the three different, totally active species, the winding creek is perfect in my mind for engaging the animals, and it is a very spacious enclosure that works well for both the otters and monkeys. The sheer size of the enclosure allows the separate species to avoid each other if they so choose to. Most zoos would love to have such a cool exhibit on their grounds.
