Appears to be an absolutely world class exhibit which would put most western zoo exhibits to shame, really impressive! This facility seems to have quite the odd contrast of exhibits of different quality.
I think it's as simple as this being an old city zoo that is methodically transforming itself into a modern facility. I know that it is very respected for its breeding work and research by Chinese enthusiasts.
@Giant Panda It seems to be in comparable to say Chester Zoos chimp exhibit in both size and features, and exhibit considered by many to be one of the best. I can think of only a handful of chimp exhibits which I would consider better, so I think calling it world class is deserved. Of course I havnt seen there indoor housing but at least the main exhibit is.
@DelacoursLangur: Actually, I think most Chester-going ZooChatters would agree the chimps have one of its weakest exhibits, although mainly because of the indoor housing. I doubt any well-travelled zoo-goer considers it "world class". Even so, and judging only from FG's photos, Chester's island has way more under-storey vegetation and furnishings than this; way more climbing opportunities, hiding opportunities, and visual barriers; more shade; and less hot-wire. This exhibit is clearly an achievement for Hangzhou, but let's not get ahead of ourselves.
@Giant Panda Im just talking about outdoor exhibits, indoor im not sure of as I mentioned earlier. Maybe im being a bit generous, but I do think this exhibit wouldnt look out of place in pretty much any western zoo. Sure maybe its not the very best, but its a big step in the right direction for Chinese zoos and should be celebrated.
Here is a better view of it: Common Chimpanzee Enclosure - ZooChat, a agree a bit too much hot wire, but the same could be said for far too many exhibits these days.
I think, as @Giant Panda knows, that the reason this exhibit looks like it deserves praise is that it is large and green, as opposed to being a small, concrete cell (or medium-sized and rocky). Given that many Chinese zoos fall short of this standard of exhibitry we're already in good territory.
However, there are at least two reasons to elevate it further, the first being the fact that the zoo stationed a security guard next to the moat to stop visitor feeding (as I've said elsewhere this is a big deal for me).
It may well be possible to look at this and make several important welfare improvement recommendations, but just by being large enough to allow a troop to actually spend time together indoors it is almost revolutionary in China.
