The Klauber buildings in Reptile Mesa have apparently been bulldozed, which means the loss of exactly 35 indoor exhibits. Does anyone know if some of the outdoor habitats have survived the ongoing renovation? San Diego still has its iconic Reptile House (50 exhibits) and plenty of outdoor areas for reptiles, but there is a great fear amongst zoo nerds that a loss of diversity might be overtaking the park. Is this like the demise of Horn & Hoof Mesa, only for cold-blooded animals?
This has been reported elsewhere, but for the sake of completeness I'll post that the Klauber buildings have been bulldozed to be replaced with more modern facilities.
The San Diego Zoo is home to dozens of rare frog and turtle species that span the globe. For decades most of them lived on Reptile Mesa in aging terrariums located inside bungalow-style buildings that were built in the 1960s. With your help, we will soon be able to showcase these charismatic creatures as well as native reptiles in new homes that will provide them with additional space and more natural environments.
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Frog & Turtle Exhibit Highlights
35-plus species of reptiles and amphibians living in three
distinct facilities, located along the northern rim
of Reptile Mesa.
Temperature controlled, glass-fronted homes with natural
lighting.
Better filtration systems and improved water quality.
More room for the animals.
Lush landscaping in each exhibit.
Nesting beaches for turtles.
An outdoor pond for Chinese alligators.
Better viewing for visitors.
An ADA-accessible, covered walkway that looks out over a
canyon
