Very true! Ugly exhibits does not automatically mean poor animal husbandry or quality of life.
America's 100 Must See Exhibits
- Thread starter pachyderm pro
- Start date
Indeed not - the impressive designs and tailored landscaping of public exhibits are more for visitor aesthetics in most cases. Off-exhibit holding is typically quite simple and not much to write home about, but the public generally doesn't see it and it's fine for the animals. I remember a little ways back in this thread there were some comments about the unsightliness of EO's elephant building - it's built for advanced age elephants, not for the public. I certainly don't disagree it's not the prettiest building, but knowing it provides top-notch care for the elephants I find no issue with it.
Bts exhibits should be built for best husbandry practices, and not for aesthetics. If you look through the AZA ACMs and EAZA best practice guidelines most photos of night rooms and bts exhibits are quite simple; sometimes we tend to forget a pretty exhibit doesn't necessarily mean it's best for the animal or easy to maintain.
71. Penguin Coast
Maryland Zoo, MD
Opened: 2014
Size: 20,000 Square Feet (1,850 Square Meters)
Inhabitants: African Penguin, Great White Pelican, White-brested Cormorant
Housing a group of close to 100 penguins, this is the single largest outdoor penguin exhibit in the US. Baltimore has a long history with African penguins, having successfully bred over 1,000 chicks since the 60s, and this habitat is a testament to that achievement. This excellently themed exhibit is modeled after a South African coastline with a 185,000 gallon pool. With the holding building placed at the center of the enclosure, the pool can be completely circumnavigated by guests and viewed from every angle. An education center imitating an abandoned guano mining settlement contains quality interpretive displays and a spacious underwater viewing pavilion. Here a dump tank will unleash 1,000 gallons of water over the heads of guests that rushes into the main pool creating tidal waves for the birds. The sheer amount of penguins on display is impressive as is, but also adding to the display are two other coastal birds: great white pelican and white-brested cormorant. The dynamic movement of the waves and frisky personalities of its inhabitants keep the exhibit in constant motion and there is never a dull moment to be had.
@TinoPup
@TinoPup
@TinoPup
Similar Exhibits: Cincinnati Zoo also mixes African penguins with a selection of coastal birds. This enclosure is a revamped version of an old pinniped pool so naturally the attention to detail isn't as elaborate, but the display is still quite lively nonetheless.
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
This exhibit can't be mentioned without me showing up to talk about it
A few additional details and bits of info:- there's a wild gull that's basically considered a resident at this point as it rarely leaves.
- they have an excellent ambassador program. Because of the number of chicks they hatch and their experience with raising them, they're able to remove ones that really aren't fitting in with the rest of the group to raise separately. There is a separate pool behind the main exhibit that is home to just the ambassadors (max 10 animals), so they all live together and get plenty of extra attention. It's next to the building ambassador interactions are done in.
- the front of the holding building, where the awning and large windows are, is where the indoor nest boxes are
There's also (very cramped) offices, a room for introducing suggested mates to each other, freezers for the fish, etc.- The amount of food EVERY bird eats is tracked carefully! They all have coded arm bands - wing designates sex, color designates year born, etc. Even when having visitors toss fish to the pool, someone writes down who gets every piece. I've watched feedings at numerous other zoos and few seem to track it that carefully, despite having groups that are 10% the size.
- Enough cannot be said about the conservation work done with wild penguins. This exhibit was the test facility for different artificial nests, with the best design now being used by many wild animals. Farmers taking their guano for fertilizer has been one of the leading causes for the rapid decline of the species, because the birds use that guano to make their nests. No nest, no chicks. Jess Phillips, who runs the exhibit, has been to South Africa and Namibia many times to help with wild birds. He has assisted during major disasters (he is the Project Coordinator for the SAFE Disaster Relief program), with everything from organizing entire operations to doing grunt work. He has provided a lot of equipment and trained many people. He helped found the Namibian division of SANCCOB, an area that was previously ignored because it's so remote. He and his staff helped find a proper site for their facilities and turn it into a place that can help penguins, has living quarters for staff, etc. He's done a lot of work with the governments in both countries, as well, to fight for their safety. Few are as dedicated as he is! All keepers who work with the penguins go to South Africa at least once to volunteer.
What species of gull?
It's a herring gull
I will say compared to the main exhibit mentioned the similar exhibit is very dull in comparison. It seems like the only similar aspect is the other sea birds in the exhibit. Other than that Cincinnatis exhibit seems to be very far off from Maryland. I can think of one other superb neotropical penguin exhibit (Humboldt) that I expect will show up later, but it honestly seems like the Cincinnati exhibit would have fit better with that one despite having different species of penguins. For this exhibit I would honestly say in terms of African Penguins there’s nothing quite like this one.71. Penguin Coast
Maryland Zoo, MD
Opened: 2014
Size: 20,000 Square Feet (1,850 Square Meters)
Inhabitants: African Penguin, Great White Pelican, White-brested Cormorant
Housing a group of close to 100 penguins, this is the single largest outdoor penguin exhibit in the US. Baltimore has a long history with African penguins, having successfully bred over 1,000 chicks since the 60s, and this habitat is a testament to that achievement. This excellently themed exhibit is modeled after a South African coastline with a 185,000 gallon pool. With the holding building placed at the center of the enclosure, the pool can be completely circumnavigated by guests and viewed from every angle. An education center imitating an abandoned guano mining settlement contains quality interpretive displays and a spacious underwater viewing pavilion. Here a dump tank will unleash 1,000 gallons of water over the heads of guests that rushes into the main pool creating tidal waves for the birds. The sheer amount of penguins on display is impressive as is, but also adding to the display are two other coastal birds: great white pelican and white-brested cormorant. The dynamic movement of the waves and frisky personalities of its inhabitants keep the exhibit in constant motion and there is never a dull moment to be had.
@TinoPup
@TinoPup
@TinoPup
Similar Exhibits: Cincinnati Zoo also mixes African penguins with a selection of coastal birds. This enclosure is a revamped version of an old pinniped pool so naturally the attention to detail isn't as elaborate, but the display is still quite lively nonetheless.
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
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72. Asia Trail
Smithsonian National Zoo, DC
Opened: 2006
Size: 6 Acres (2.4 Hectares)
Inhabitants: Giant Panda, Red Panda, Sloth Bear, Clouded Leopard, Fishing Cat, Asian Small-clawed Otter, Northern Snakehead
Many large scale Asian exhibits are composed of ruined temples and cultural theming, but Asia Trial succeeds in allowing the natural elements to take over. The title of the exhibit seems to imply an all-encompassing showcase of different Asian species, but it’s actually much more streamlined. Apart from a small tank for northern snakehead that formerly housed giant salamander, there is an exclusive focus on carnivores both large and small. There are some very interesting species here including sloth bear, clouded leopard and fishing cat, all of which featured in exhibits that can accurately be described as some of the best in the country for each one respectively. The general public will be far more interested in the famous bamboo-munching blob bears, although the giant panda habitats are indeed phenomenal and some of the best in the western world. Each of the enclosures are dominated by large shrubs, trees and tastefully done rockwork. The lush vegetation including thick bamboo engulfs the visitor area as well creating a very pleasant atmosphere without any cultural thematics. Zoo nerds will appreciate the more subdued approach to an Asian complex and the high quality habitats for more unusual species. The casual visitor will also have something to appreciate, as in all likelihood this will soon be the only place in North America to see a giant panda.
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
@SwampDonkey
@Baldur
@uszoo
@MountainBongo
Similar Exhibits: Zoo Atlanta's Asian Forest zone is definitely the natural comparison, being the only other panda holder the hasn't been mentioned on this list. The panda complex is good without being remarkable, but the real highlight of the area however would have to be the amount of orangutans on display, the most of any US collection I believe. The inclusion of giant otters and naked-mole rats doesn't make much sense, but otherwise the area is nicely done and pleasing to the eye.
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
Smithsonian National Zoo, DC
Opened: 2006
Size: 6 Acres (2.4 Hectares)
Inhabitants: Giant Panda, Red Panda, Sloth Bear, Clouded Leopard, Fishing Cat, Asian Small-clawed Otter, Northern Snakehead
Many large scale Asian exhibits are composed of ruined temples and cultural theming, but Asia Trial succeeds in allowing the natural elements to take over. The title of the exhibit seems to imply an all-encompassing showcase of different Asian species, but it’s actually much more streamlined. Apart from a small tank for northern snakehead that formerly housed giant salamander, there is an exclusive focus on carnivores both large and small. There are some very interesting species here including sloth bear, clouded leopard and fishing cat, all of which featured in exhibits that can accurately be described as some of the best in the country for each one respectively. The general public will be far more interested in the famous bamboo-munching blob bears, although the giant panda habitats are indeed phenomenal and some of the best in the western world. Each of the enclosures are dominated by large shrubs, trees and tastefully done rockwork. The lush vegetation including thick bamboo engulfs the visitor area as well creating a very pleasant atmosphere without any cultural thematics. Zoo nerds will appreciate the more subdued approach to an Asian complex and the high quality habitats for more unusual species. The casual visitor will also have something to appreciate, as in all likelihood this will soon be the only place in North America to see a giant panda.
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
@SwampDonkey
@Baldur
@uszoo
@MountainBongo
1. Giant Panda Exhibits
2. Clouded Leopard Exhibit
3. Sloth Bear Exhibit
4. Fishing Cat Exhibit
5. Red Panda Exhibit
6. General Overview
2. Clouded Leopard Exhibit
3. Sloth Bear Exhibit
4. Fishing Cat Exhibit
5. Red Panda Exhibit
6. General Overview
Similar Exhibits: Zoo Atlanta's Asian Forest zone is definitely the natural comparison, being the only other panda holder the hasn't been mentioned on this list. The panda complex is good without being remarkable, but the real highlight of the area however would have to be the amount of orangutans on display, the most of any US collection I believe. The inclusion of giant otters and naked-mole rats doesn't make much sense, but otherwise the area is nicely done and pleasing to the eye.
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
Great pick! This section was one of the highlights of the zoo to me, even without giant panda it would be a solid section.72. Asia Trail
Smithsonian National Zoo, DC
Opened: 2006
Size: 6 Acres (2.4 Hectares)
Inhabitants: Giant Panda, Red Panda, Sloth Bear, Clouded Leopard, Fishing Cat, Asian Small-clawed Otter, Northern Snakehead
Many large scale Asian exhibits are composed of ruined temples and cultural theming, but Asia Trial succeeds in allowing the natural elements to take over. The title of the exhibit seems to imply an all-encompassing showcase of different Asian species, but it’s actually much more streamlined. Apart from a small tank for northern snakehead that formerly housed giant salamander, there is an exclusive focus on carnivores both large and small. There are some very interesting species here including sloth bear, clouded leopard and fishing cat, all of which featured in exhibits that can accurately be described as some of the best in the country for each one respectively. The general public will be far more interested in the famous bamboo-munching blob bears, although the giant panda habitats are indeed phenomenal and some of the best in the western world. Each of the enclosures are dominated by large shrubs, trees and tastefully done rockwork. The lush vegetation including thick bamboo engulfs the visitor area as well creating a very pleasant atmosphere without any cultural thematics. Zoo nerds will appreciate the more subdued approach to an Asian complex and the high quality habitats for more unusual species. The casual visitor will also have something to appreciate, as in all likelihood this will soon be the only place in North America to see a giant panda.
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
@SwampDonkey
@Baldur
@uszoo
@MountainBongo
1. Giant Panda Exhibits
2. Clouded Leopard Exhibit
3. Sloth Bear Exhibit
4. Fishing Cat Exhibit
5. Red Panda Exhibit
6. General Overview
Similar Exhibits: Zoo Atlanta's Asian Forest zone is definitely the natural comparison, being the only other panda holder the hasn't been mentioned on this list. The panda complex is good without being remarkable, but the real highlight of the area however would have to be the amount of orangutans on display, the most of any US collection I believe. The inclusion of giant otters and naked-mole rats doesn't make much sense, but otherwise the area is nicely done and pleasing to the eye.
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
Joseph G
Well-Known Member
Not to minimize anything about this incredible exhibit (because there truly is no other African penguin experience like it in the country), but coded arm bands are a thing at almost every African penguin exhibit - just not to this extent because other facilities don't have almost 100 birds in their colony. Everywhere I've been track feedings too, just in different ways. It's incredibly important to track that over time as it can be a really easy indicator of health issues. Some facilities have a small enough colony to just make mental notes. Some manually write it down in a notebook or dry erase sheet. Some just call out names and a record a voice memo to log it later. I'm also pretty sure every AZA facility ended up with the same final nest design for testing, or at least it's been phrased as such in every African penguin talk I've been able to see. Most SSP coordinators (at the very least) make multiple trips to SANCCOB as well. Again, not to minimize what's going on at Maryland because it's clearly on an exponential scale, but a lot facilities with African penguins are doing similarly great work, just with a smaller colony!
72. Asia Trail
Smithsonian National Zoo, DC
Opened: 2006
Size: 6 Acres (2.4 Hectares)
Inhabitants: Giant Panda, Red Panda, Sloth Bear, Clouded Leopard, Fishing Cat, Asian Small-clawed Otter, Northern Snakehead
Many large scale Asian exhibits are composed of ruined temples and cultural theming, but Asia Trial succeeds in allowing the natural elements to take over. The title of the exhibit seems to imply an all-encompassing showcase of different Asian species, but it’s actually much more streamlined. Apart from a small tank for northern snakehead that formerly housed giant salamander, there is an exclusive focus on carnivores both large and small. There are some very interesting species here including sloth bear, clouded leopard and fishing cat, all of which featured in exhibits that can accurately be described as some of the best in the country for each one respectively. The general public will be far more interested in the famous bamboo-munching blob bears, although the giant panda habitats are indeed phenomenal and some of the best in the western world. Each of the enclosures are dominated by large shrubs, trees and tastefully done rockwork. The lush vegetation including thick bamboo engulfs the visitor area as well creating a very pleasant atmosphere without any cultural thematics. Zoo nerds will appreciate the more subdued approach to an Asian complex and the high quality habitats for more unusual species. The casual visitor will also have something to appreciate, as in all likelihood this will soon be the only place in North America to see a giant panda.
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
@SwampDonkey
@Baldur
@uszoo
@MountainBongo
1. Giant Panda Exhibits
2. Clouded Leopard Exhibit
3. Sloth Bear Exhibit
4. Fishing Cat Exhibit
5. Red Panda Exhibit
6. General Overview
Similar Exhibits: Zoo Atlanta's Asian Forest zone is definitely the natural comparison, being the only other panda holder the hasn't been mentioned on this list. The panda complex is good without being remarkable, but the real highlight of the area however would have to be the amount of orangutans on display, the most of any US collection I believe. The inclusion of giant otters and naked-mole rats doesn't make much sense, but otherwise the area is nicely done and pleasing to the eye.
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
They are so important to breeding clouded leopards in tandem with Nashville, but man I wish they had a better exhibit. Of course, big kudos to the panda exhibit. I was blown away my first visit seeing one in a tree!
Last edited:
Pleistocene891
Well-Known Member
This is one of my favorite Asian exhibits in any zoo. All of the exhibits are arguably the best of their kind for their respective species.72. Asia Trail
Smithsonian National Zoo, DC
Opened: 2006
Size: 6 Acres (2.4 Hectares)
Inhabitants: Giant Panda, Red Panda, Sloth Bear, Clouded Leopard, Fishing Cat, Asian Small-clawed Otter, Northern Snakehead
Many large scale Asian exhibits are composed of ruined temples and cultural theming, but Asia Trial succeeds in allowing the natural elements to take over. The title of the exhibit seems to imply an all-encompassing showcase of different Asian species, but it’s actually much more streamlined. Apart from a small tank for northern snakehead that formerly housed giant salamander, there is an exclusive focus on carnivores both large and small. There are some very interesting species here including sloth bear, clouded leopard and fishing cat, all of which featured in exhibits that can accurately be described as some of the best in the country for each one respectively. The general public will be far more interested in the famous bamboo-munching blob bears, although the giant panda habitats are indeed phenomenal and some of the best in the western world. Each of the enclosures are dominated by large shrubs, trees and tastefully done rockwork. The lush vegetation including thick bamboo engulfs the visitor area as well creating a very pleasant atmosphere without any cultural thematics. Zoo nerds will appreciate the more subdued approach to an Asian complex and the high quality habitats for more unusual species. The casual visitor will also have something to appreciate, as in all likelihood this will soon be the only place in North America to see a giant panda.
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
@SwampDonkey
@Baldur
@uszoo
@MountainBongo
1. Giant Panda Exhibits
2. Clouded Leopard Exhibit
3. Sloth Bear Exhibit
4. Fishing Cat Exhibit
5. Red Panda Exhibit
6. General Overview
Similar Exhibits: Zoo Atlanta's Asian Forest zone is definitely the natural comparison, being the only other panda holder the hasn't been mentioned on this list. The panda complex is good without being remarkable, but the real highlight of the area however would have to be the amount of orangutans on display, the most of any US collection I believe. The inclusion of giant otters and naked-mole rats doesn't make much sense, but otherwise the area is nicely done and pleasing to the eye.
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
I'm aware most places have arm bands, I described it specifically because of the size of the colony
Not everywhere tracks feedings, as I just said. And again, nowhere else has 100 birds to track. Other facilities may have ended up with the final nest design, but Maryland designed them to begin with and came up with that final one. Those other coordinators take those trips with/because of Jess. Other facilities are doing similar work BECAUSE OF Maryland.
Maybe the selected pictures don't quite do it justice, but I think that, while much smaller, Cincy's exhibit is actually comparable and very nice and spacious, and the inclusion of other seabirds also warrants the comparison.
Out of all the penguin exhibits I've seen, it is up there, although my favorite penguin exhibit is another one also at Cincy, which I think also deserves to be mentioned at some point.
73. Congo Gorilla Forest
Bronx Zoo, NY
Opened: 1999
Size: 6.5 Acres (2.6 Hectares)
Inhabitants: Western Lowland Gorilla, Mandrill, Colobus Monkey, Wolf’s Mona Monkey, Okapi, Red River Hog and a wide variety of African birds and ectotherms.
There probably isn’t a single exhibit more famous for being first in class than William G Conway’s last hurrah before retirement. Bronx took the lessons learned from Woodland Park's famous gorilla enclosure and supersized it in every aspect, creating the pinnacle of immersion design in the process. Designing a tropical rainforest in the middle of New York City was not an easy task, with 14,000 plants representing over 400 species having to be established. Numerous artificial trees, branches and logs are phenomenally detailed and fit right in with the lush plantings, once again demonstrating that Bronx spares no expense when producing simulated trees and rocks. Assuming they didn't purchase the total experience ticket, guests must pay a small "conservation fee" to enter the complex which over the years has raised several millions of dollars for conservation in Central Africa. There's also an informative eight minute short film that visitors can watch before approaching the gorillas which is just one of many superb educational and interpretive elements included here. To put it simply, the gorilla habitats are outstanding and minus the occasional glimpse of hotwire it's impossible to tell where the exhibits end. Both enclosures are viewed from a gallery-like setting including a walkthrough tunnel where the apes can cross overhead. The excellence continues with the okapi exhibit which appears as a small clearing surrounded by dense forest. Various monkeys are also treated to fantastic accommodations with a mandrill and red river hog mixed species exhibit being the obvious highlight. Megafauna don't dominate the complex however, with the Living Treasures gallery including an open topped aquarium at the center and vivaria for a number of African ectotherms lining the walls. Perhaps the biggest flaw of the complex is the extremely limited viewing for the gorilla bedrooms which are far more expensive than visitors would realize upon first glance. Otherwise, it's genuinely difficult to critique what is near unanimously accepted as one of the greatest zoo exhibits ever made.
@Zebraduiker
@Zebraduiker
@Zebraduiker
@Milwaukee Man
@snowleopard
@savethelephant
@billconwaydisciple
@twilighter
Similar Exhibits: In recent years, it seems gorillas have consistently received excellent enclosures and there are multiple examples of exhibits that could rival Bronx. The exhibits at Dallas Zoo, Houston Zoo, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom are all superb and the warm climate is certainly an advantage when it comest to maintaining a rainforest environment. When referring to other African forest complexes, Columbus Zoo's Expedition Congo is the next best of its kind in the country, even with an oddly Howletts inspired gorilla enclosure. The adjacent bonobo enclosure is far more naturalistic and numerous other mammals and birds are in satellite enclosures which are all of high quality.
Dallas Zoo
@TinoPup
@snowleopard
Houston Zoo
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
Disney's Animal Kingdom
@Moebelle
@snowleopard
Columbus Zoo
@Moebelle
@TeamTapir223
@Moebelle
Bronx Zoo, NY
Opened: 1999
Size: 6.5 Acres (2.6 Hectares)
Inhabitants: Western Lowland Gorilla, Mandrill, Colobus Monkey, Wolf’s Mona Monkey, Okapi, Red River Hog and a wide variety of African birds and ectotherms.
There probably isn’t a single exhibit more famous for being first in class than William G Conway’s last hurrah before retirement. Bronx took the lessons learned from Woodland Park's famous gorilla enclosure and supersized it in every aspect, creating the pinnacle of immersion design in the process. Designing a tropical rainforest in the middle of New York City was not an easy task, with 14,000 plants representing over 400 species having to be established. Numerous artificial trees, branches and logs are phenomenally detailed and fit right in with the lush plantings, once again demonstrating that Bronx spares no expense when producing simulated trees and rocks. Assuming they didn't purchase the total experience ticket, guests must pay a small "conservation fee" to enter the complex which over the years has raised several millions of dollars for conservation in Central Africa. There's also an informative eight minute short film that visitors can watch before approaching the gorillas which is just one of many superb educational and interpretive elements included here. To put it simply, the gorilla habitats are outstanding and minus the occasional glimpse of hotwire it's impossible to tell where the exhibits end. Both enclosures are viewed from a gallery-like setting including a walkthrough tunnel where the apes can cross overhead. The excellence continues with the okapi exhibit which appears as a small clearing surrounded by dense forest. Various monkeys are also treated to fantastic accommodations with a mandrill and red river hog mixed species exhibit being the obvious highlight. Megafauna don't dominate the complex however, with the Living Treasures gallery including an open topped aquarium at the center and vivaria for a number of African ectotherms lining the walls. Perhaps the biggest flaw of the complex is the extremely limited viewing for the gorilla bedrooms which are far more expensive than visitors would realize upon first glance. Otherwise, it's genuinely difficult to critique what is near unanimously accepted as one of the greatest zoo exhibits ever made.
@Zebraduiker
@Zebraduiker
@Zebraduiker
@Milwaukee Man
@snowleopard
@savethelephant
@billconwaydisciple
@twilighter
1. Gorilla Exhibit
2. Gorilla Exhibit
3. Gorilla Exhibit Viewing
4. Gorilla Exhibit Tunnel
5. Okapi Exhibit
6. Mandrill and Red River Hog Exhibit
7. Living Treasures Gallery
8. Wolf's Mona Monkey Exhibit
2. Gorilla Exhibit
3. Gorilla Exhibit Viewing
4. Gorilla Exhibit Tunnel
5. Okapi Exhibit
6. Mandrill and Red River Hog Exhibit
7. Living Treasures Gallery
8. Wolf's Mona Monkey Exhibit
Similar Exhibits: In recent years, it seems gorillas have consistently received excellent enclosures and there are multiple examples of exhibits that could rival Bronx. The exhibits at Dallas Zoo, Houston Zoo, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom are all superb and the warm climate is certainly an advantage when it comest to maintaining a rainforest environment. When referring to other African forest complexes, Columbus Zoo's Expedition Congo is the next best of its kind in the country, even with an oddly Howletts inspired gorilla enclosure. The adjacent bonobo enclosure is far more naturalistic and numerous other mammals and birds are in satellite enclosures which are all of high quality.
Dallas Zoo
@TinoPup
@snowleopard
Houston Zoo
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
Disney's Animal Kingdom
@Moebelle
@snowleopard
Columbus Zoo
@Moebelle
@TeamTapir223
@Moebelle
Pleistocene891
Well-Known Member
With its excellent exhibit quality, biodiversity in species, unmatched immersion, and strong conservation theme, I don’t think it’s hyperbolic to say that Congo Gorilla Forest is arguably the greatest exhibit in the country.
I love Congo Gorilla Forest, and get chills whenever I go.
One of my favorite underrated sections of the exhibit is the large “fallen tree” that visitors walk through on the way to the Okapi Exhibit. It seems like many people don’t notice, but the fallen tree has a few subtle holes in its side, and you can peek through them to get an early glimpse of the Okapi enclosure as you walk through. It is probably easier to see the Okapi at the main viewing areas, but I’ve found it incredibly immersive to catch these small glimpses of the elusive animals from within the fallen tree, as the experience strongly represents them as the secretive species that they are.
One of my favorite underrated sections of the exhibit is the large “fallen tree” that visitors walk through on the way to the Okapi Exhibit. It seems like many people don’t notice, but the fallen tree has a few subtle holes in its side, and you can peek through them to get an early glimpse of the Okapi enclosure as you walk through. It is probably easier to see the Okapi at the main viewing areas, but I’ve found it incredibly immersive to catch these small glimpses of the elusive animals from within the fallen tree, as the experience strongly represents them as the secretive species that they are.
This post is truly a catch-all of some of the greatest gorilla complexes in the United States. While I think most would consider Congo Gorilla Forest as a shoe-in for this list, I'm honestly surprised that none of those other gorilla complexes were considered "must-see" on their own right. When designing my list of guesses for inclusion, I included five exhibits featuring gorillas. Congo Gorilla Forest and the previously included Center for African Apes were two of them, and the other three were mentioned in this post as well- with the exhibits at Columbus, Houston, and Disney's Animal Kingdom. Disney and Bronx are considered by most to be the two best gorilla exhibits on the continent, and while I was very impressed by the Disney exhibit, I'll reserve judgement on which I think is the better gorilla exhibit until I (finally) make it to the Bronx Zoo.73. Congo Gorilla Forest
Bronx Zoo, NY
Opened: 1999
Size: 6.5 Acres (2.6 Hectares)
Inhabitants: Western Lowland Gorilla, Mandrill, Colobus Monkey, Wolf’s Mona Monkey, Okapi, Red River Hog and a wide variety of African birds and ectotherms.
There probably isn’t a single exhibit more famous for being first in class than William G Conway’s last hurrah before retirement. Bronx took the lessons learned from Woodland Park's famous gorilla enclosure and supersized it in every aspect, creating the pinnacle of immersion design in the process. Designing a tropical rainforest in the middle of New York City was not an easy task, with 14,000 plants representing over 400 species having to be established. Numerous artificial trees, branches and logs are phenomenally detailed and fit right in with the lush plantings, once again demonstrating that Bronx spares no expense when producing simulated trees and rocks. Assuming they didn't purchase the total experience ticket, guests must pay a small "conservation fee" to enter the complex which over the years has raised several millions of dollars for conservation in Central Africa. There's also an informative eight minute short film that visitors can watch before approaching the gorillas which is just one of many superb educational and interpretive elements included here. To put it simply, the gorilla habitats are outstanding and minus the occasional glimpse of hotwire it's impossible to tell where the exhibits end. Both enclosures are viewed from a gallery-like setting including a walkthrough tunnel where the apes can cross overhead. The excellence continues with the okapi exhibit which appears as a small clearing surrounded by dense forest. Various monkeys are also treated to fantastic accommodations with a mandrill and red river hog mixed species exhibit being the obvious highlight. Megafauna don't dominate the complex however, with the Living Treasures gallery including an open topped aquarium at the center and vivaria for a number of African ectotherms lining the walls. Perhaps the biggest flaw of the complex is the extremely limited viewing for the gorilla bedrooms which are far more expensive than visitors would realize upon first glance. Otherwise, it's genuinely difficult to critique what is near unanimously accepted as one of the greatest zoo exhibits ever made.
@Zebraduiker
@Zebraduiker
@Zebraduiker
@Milwaukee Man
@snowleopard
@savethelephant
@billconwaydisciple
@twilighter
1. Gorilla Exhibit
2. Gorilla Exhibit
3. Gorilla Exhibit Viewing
4. Gorilla Exhibit Tunnel
5. Okapi Exhibit
6. Mandrill and Red River Hog Exhibit
7. Living Treasures Gallery
8. Wolf's Mona Monkey Exhibit
Similar Exhibits: In recent years, it seems gorillas have consistently received excellent enclosures and there are multiple examples of exhibits that could rival Bronx. The exhibits at Dallas Zoo, Houston Zoo, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom are all superb and the warm climate is certainly an advantage when it comest to maintaining a rainforest environment. When referring to other African forest complexes, Columbus Zoo's Expedition Congo is the next best of its kind in the country, even with an oddly Howletts inspired gorilla enclosure. The adjacent bonobo enclosure is far more naturalistic and numerous other mammals and birds are in satellite enclosures which are all of high quality.
Dallas Zoo
@TinoPup
@snowleopard
Houston Zoo
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
Disney's Animal Kingdom
@Moebelle
@snowleopard
Columbus Zoo
@Moebelle
@TeamTapir223
@Moebelle
CMTM
Well-Known Member
I adore CGF and this log with the sneak-peeks was actually used as an example in my exhibits class in school.
Pleistocene891
Well-Known Member
Add woodland park and San Diego’s gorilla exhibits and you have the best gorilla exhibits in the country. I would rank them as
1. Bronx
2. Disney
3. Lincoln Park
4. Woodland Park
5. Houston
6. San Diego
7. Dallas
Corangurilla
Well-Known Member
Ugh, those pictures hurt to look at. Not because the exhibit is bad (why would I ever imply that), but because I've never properly experienced it...73. Congo Gorilla Forest
Bronx Zoo, NY
Opened: 1999
Size: 6.5 Acres (2.6 Hectares)
Inhabitants: Western Lowland Gorilla, Mandrill, Colobus Monkey, Wolf’s Mona Monkey, Okapi, Red River Hog and a wide variety of African birds and ectotherms.
There probably isn’t a single exhibit more famous for being first in class than William G Conway’s last hurrah before retirement. Bronx took the lessons learned from Woodland Park's famous gorilla enclosure and supersized it in every aspect, creating the pinnacle of immersion design in the process. Designing a tropical rainforest in the middle of New York City was not an easy task, with 14,000 plants representing over 400 species having to be established. Numerous artificial trees, branches and logs are phenomenally detailed and fit right in with the lush plantings, once again demonstrating that Bronx spares no expense when producing simulated trees and rocks. Assuming they didn't purchase the total experience ticket, guests must pay a small "conservation fee" to enter the complex which over the years has raised several millions of dollars for conservation in Central Africa. There's also an informative eight minute short film that visitors can watch before approaching the gorillas which is just one of many superb educational and interpretive elements included here. To put it simply, the gorilla habitats are outstanding and minus the occasional glimpse of hotwire it's impossible to tell where the exhibits end. Both enclosures are viewed from a gallery-like setting including a walkthrough tunnel where the apes can cross overhead. The excellence continues with the okapi exhibit which appears as a small clearing surrounded by dense forest. Various monkeys are also treated to fantastic accommodations with a mandrill and red river hog mixed species exhibit being the obvious highlight. Megafauna don't dominate the complex however, with the Living Treasures gallery including an open topped aquarium at the center and vivaria for a number of African ectotherms lining the walls. Perhaps the biggest flaw of the complex is the extremely limited viewing for the gorilla bedrooms which are far more expensive than visitors would realize upon first glance. Otherwise, it's genuinely difficult to critique what is near unanimously accepted as one of the greatest zoo exhibits ever made.
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1. Gorilla Exhibit
2. Gorilla Exhibit
3. Gorilla Exhibit Viewing
4. Gorilla Exhibit Tunnel
5. Okapi Exhibit
6. Mandrill and Red River Hog Exhibit
7. Living Treasures Gallery
8. Wolf's Mona Monkey Exhibit
Similar Exhibits: In recent years, it seems gorillas have consistently received excellent enclosures and there are multiple examples of exhibits that could rival Bronx. The exhibits at Dallas Zoo, Houston Zoo, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom are all superb and the warm climate is certainly an advantage when it comest to maintaining a rainforest environment. When referring to other African forest complexes, Columbus Zoo's Expedition Congo is the next best of its kind in the country, even with an oddly Howletts inspired gorilla enclosure. The adjacent bonobo enclosure is far more naturalistic and numerous other mammals and birds are in satellite enclosures which are all of high quality.
Dallas Zoo
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I've only been to the Bronx Zoo once, and it was when I was a literal baby. My memories of that trip are understandably limited, but the stuff I remember include
- The Geladas, Hyraxes, and an Ibex I somehow mistook for a Saiga (don't ask how).
- Possibly the first bear I had ever seen.
- Vague flashes of the monorail (including my first-ever elephant?)
- A sea lion named "Bandit."
- A tree shrew in the Mouse House.
- Some capuchins in crummy cages.
Seeing those pictures of the CGF (particularly the 3rd and 4th ones) unlocked a core memory. And now I need to find a reason to go to New York so I can give the Bronx Zoo a proper visit.
