June 2009 - I like the exhibit in that it's long which makes the elephants walk, but the exhibit is just too dusty and dry. The "utilitrees" are great because they provide enrichment, but they are just ugly.
I agree, this is exhibit is too barron and metal, but i believe the trees are being covered in a plant that will make them look like giant boabab trees. hopefully with time the trees and plants in the exhibit will also grow making it more lush.
I agree, this is exhibit is too barron and metal, but i believe the trees are being covered in a plant that will make them look like giant boabab trees. hopefully with time the trees and plants in the exhibit will also grow making it more lush.
There are no trees or plants in the elephant enclosure, of course. The shrub on the top of the utilitrees will have a very long way to go if it is to expand from the center (where it is planted) to completely hide those helicopter landing pads.
The plants in the public area are not species that will ever create a look of "lushness."
Like many major exhibits, it has its Good and it has its Bad.
But the Utilitrees are over-marketed as being terrific and I think they are merely an improvement on an old idea, but still are unsuccessful.
Considering such a device as enrichment for an elephant is like considering setting a child in front of TV with an educational program and leaving him there alone as good child-rearing.
Besides, I do not like exhibits where the structures or architecture overwhelm the scene.
