Antimony96
Well-Known Member
And unless I'm miscounting, California has officially hit double digits, the first (and as has been spoiled anyway) only state to do so.
America's 100 Must See Exhibits
- Thread starter pachyderm pro
- Start date
76. Penguin Conservation Center
Detroit Zoo, MI
Opened: 2016
Size: 33,000 Square Feet (3,050 Square Meters)
Inhabitants: King Penguin, Gentoo Penguin, Chinstrap Penguin, Macaroni Penguin, Southern Rockhopper Penguin
The world's largest penguin house is as lavish as it is grandiose, modeled after what looks to be a modernist interpretation of an iceberg. Holding more than 75 penguins of five different species, the birds all share a single habitat that could be argued as the best cold weather penguin enclosure in the world. Primary viewing of the enclosure is done from two large windows at the start and end of the building, which unfortunately means cross-views are very apparent. The industrial appearance of the exhibit may also be a turn off to some, but looking past those minor nitpicks, few animal houses do such a remarkable job taking zoo-goers through a story. A winding ramp leads to the buildings' lower level where guests are surrounded by huge 4D projection screens that immerse the viewer in an Antarctic expedition from the perspective of explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. The next room is a museum gallery with a collection of photos from the real expedition over a century ago, which transitions to an extensive underwater viewing area with two separate underwater tunnels. The glare of the main underwater viewing window is utilized to project informative signs that fade in and out like holograms. The pool is 326,000 gallons and reaches a depth of 25 feet which enables the penguins to freely torpedo through the water. Antarctic penguins don't always have enclosures that do them justice, so to see an exhibit that allows them to perform this kind of behavior really is a spectacle.
@pachyderm pro
@Moebelle
@pachyderm pro
@pachyderm pro
@pachyderm pro
@Moebelle
Similar Exhibits: There are other impressive penguinariums, such as SeaWorld San Diego's Penguin Encounter which includes the only emperor penguins in the US. However, heavy condensation frequently on the viewing windows and the moving walkway make for a slightly awkward experience overall. ABQ Biopark's Penguin Chill is probably the most similar with some very good thematic elements. The house also includes a gallery with life-sized replicas of all of the world's penguin species which is an excellent display.
SeaWorld San Diego
@geomorph
@pachyderm pro
ABQ Biopark
@SwampDonkey
@Coelacanth18
@Arizona Docent
Detroit Zoo, MI
Opened: 2016
Size: 33,000 Square Feet (3,050 Square Meters)
Inhabitants: King Penguin, Gentoo Penguin, Chinstrap Penguin, Macaroni Penguin, Southern Rockhopper Penguin
The world's largest penguin house is as lavish as it is grandiose, modeled after what looks to be a modernist interpretation of an iceberg. Holding more than 75 penguins of five different species, the birds all share a single habitat that could be argued as the best cold weather penguin enclosure in the world. Primary viewing of the enclosure is done from two large windows at the start and end of the building, which unfortunately means cross-views are very apparent. The industrial appearance of the exhibit may also be a turn off to some, but looking past those minor nitpicks, few animal houses do such a remarkable job taking zoo-goers through a story. A winding ramp leads to the buildings' lower level where guests are surrounded by huge 4D projection screens that immerse the viewer in an Antarctic expedition from the perspective of explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. The next room is a museum gallery with a collection of photos from the real expedition over a century ago, which transitions to an extensive underwater viewing area with two separate underwater tunnels. The glare of the main underwater viewing window is utilized to project informative signs that fade in and out like holograms. The pool is 326,000 gallons and reaches a depth of 25 feet which enables the penguins to freely torpedo through the water. Antarctic penguins don't always have enclosures that do them justice, so to see an exhibit that allows them to perform this kind of behavior really is a spectacle.
@pachyderm pro
@Moebelle
@pachyderm pro
@pachyderm pro
@pachyderm pro
@Moebelle
Similar Exhibits: There are other impressive penguinariums, such as SeaWorld San Diego's Penguin Encounter which includes the only emperor penguins in the US. However, heavy condensation frequently on the viewing windows and the moving walkway make for a slightly awkward experience overall. ABQ Biopark's Penguin Chill is probably the most similar with some very good thematic elements. The house also includes a gallery with life-sized replicas of all of the world's penguin species which is an excellent display.
SeaWorld San Diego
@geomorph
@pachyderm pro
ABQ Biopark
@SwampDonkey
@Coelacanth18
@Arizona Docent
Being my home zoo, I visit the Detroit Zoo many times yearly. Whenever I talk with someone who hasn't been to the Detroit Zoo in a while (or never), this is always the first exhibit I mention to them. I think everything about this exhibit is spectacular. The only problem I ever really have are the crowds, but that's to be expected with any world-class exhibit.76. Penguin Conservation Center
Detroit Zoo, MI
Opened: 2016
Size: 33,000 Square Feet (3,050 Square Meters)
Inhabitants: King Penguin, Gentoo Penguin, Chinstrap Penguin, Macaroni Penguin, Southern Rockhopper Penguin
The world's largest penguin house is as lavish as it is grandiose, modeled after what looks to be a modernist interpretation of an iceberg. Holding more than 75 penguins of five different species, the birds all share a single habitat that could be argued as the best cold weather penguin enclosure in the world. Primary viewing of the enclosure is done from two large windows at the start and end of the building, which unfortunately means cross-views are very apparent. The industrial appearance of the exhibit may also be a turn off to some, but looking past those minor nitpicks, few animal houses do such a remarkable job taking zoo-goers through a story. A winding ramp leads to the buildings' lower level where guests are surrounded by huge 4D projection screens that immerse the viewer in an Antarctic expedition from the perspective of explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. The next room is a museum gallery with a collection of photos from the real expedition over a century ago, which transitions to an extensive underwater viewing area with two separate underwater tunnels. The glare of the main underwater viewing window is utilized to project informative signs that fade in and out like holograms. The pool is 326,000 gallons and reaches a depth of 25 feet which enables the penguins to freely torpedo through the water. Antarctic penguins don't always have enclosures that do them justice, so to see an exhibit that allows them to perform this kind of behavior really is a spectacle.
@pachyderm pro
@Moebelle
@pachyderm pro
@pachyderm pro
@pachyderm pro
@Moebelle
Similar Exhibits: There are other impressive penguinariums, such as SeaWorld San Diego's Penguin Encounter which includes the only emperor penguins in the US. However, heavy condensation frequently on the viewing windows and the moving walkway make for a slightly awkward experience overall. ABQ Biopark's Penguin Chill is probably the most similar with some very good thematic elements. The house also includes a gallery with life-sized replicas of all of the world's penguin species which is an excellent display.
SeaWorld San Diego
@geomorph
@pachyderm pro
ABQ Biopark
@SwampDonkey
@Coelacanth18
@Arizona Docent
I've been hyped for the PPCC, both for this list and its unveiling, for a long while! It was plagued with construction issues and re-opening was delayed for a couple years as groundwater kept seeping into the exhibit due to poor construction. There are still some leakage issues, but clearly it's not severe enough to close the exhibit (again). This is definitely the finest penguin exhibit in the country, and I think everyone is hoping the leaking can be permanently fixed.
Persephone
Well-Known Member
After leaving the PPCC I realized that the one building had been a better experience than SeaLife Michigan. I think I will remember it for a long time. Still wear a little charm necklace of a penguin I bought in the gift shop because I wanted a keepsake. I've only been to ~60 zoos, but if I had to make a top ten exhibits list I think this one would be on it. Most of Detroit is kind of underwhelming but this, the amphibian center, and Arctic Ring of Life are truly must-see exhibits and I would highly recommend anyone who can visit the zoo do so.
Also, I know it probably gets overlooked by most people, but I thought the museum section about the real Antarctic voyage was incredibly cool. Between it and the signage on native cultures at Grizzly Coast I kind of want zoos to have more signage about human events. Weird, right? I just don't think either exhibit would be as good without their educational elements.
EDIT: While I'm here, I saw some comments earlier about Columbus not warranting another entry on this list. I disagree. I think the manatee exhibit and roadhouse might actually be the zoo's strongest exhibits. With that said I've never actually been when the Africa area was open. Both of my last trips were in the winter.
Also, I know it probably gets overlooked by most people, but I thought the museum section about the real Antarctic voyage was incredibly cool. Between it and the signage on native cultures at Grizzly Coast I kind of want zoos to have more signage about human events. Weird, right? I just don't think either exhibit would be as good without their educational elements.
EDIT: While I'm here, I saw some comments earlier about Columbus not warranting another entry on this list. I disagree. I think the manatee exhibit and roadhouse might actually be the zoo's strongest exhibits. With that said I've never actually been when the Africa area was open. Both of my last trips were in the winter.
Pleistocene891
Well-Known Member
While not arctic penguins, San Diego also has an amazing underwater view for African rock penguins.76. Penguin Conservation Center
Detroit Zoo, MI
Opened: 2016
Size: 33,000 Square Feet (3,050 Square Meters)
Inhabitants: King Penguin, Gentoo Penguin, Chinstrap Penguin, Macaroni Penguin, Southern Rockhopper Penguin
The world's largest penguin house is as lavish as it is grandiose, modeled after what looks to be a modernist interpretation of an iceberg. Holding more than 75 penguins of five different species, the birds all share a single habitat that could be argued as the best cold weather penguin enclosure in the world. Primary viewing of the enclosure is done from two large windows at the start and end of the building, which unfortunately means cross-views are very apparent. The industrial appearance of the exhibit may also be a turn off to some, but looking past those minor nitpicks, few animal houses do such a remarkable job taking zoo-goers through a story. A winding ramp leads to the buildings' lower level where guests are surrounded by huge 4D projection screens that immerse the viewer in an Antarctic expedition from the perspective of explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. The next room is a museum gallery with a collection of photos from the real expedition over a century ago, which transitions to an extensive underwater viewing area with two separate underwater tunnels. The glare of the main underwater viewing window is utilized to project informative signs that fade in and out like holograms. The pool is 326,000 gallons and reaches a depth of 25 feet which enables the penguins to freely torpedo through the water. Antarctic penguins don't always have enclosures that do them justice, so to see an exhibit that allows them to perform this kind of behavior really is a spectacle.
@pachyderm pro
@Moebelle
@pachyderm pro
@pachyderm pro
@pachyderm pro
@Moebelle
Similar Exhibits: There are other impressive penguinariums, such as SeaWorld San Diego's Penguin Encounter which includes the only emperor penguins in the US. However, heavy condensation frequently on the viewing windows and the moving walkway make for a slightly awkward experience overall. ABQ Biopark's Penguin Chill is probably the most similar with some very good thematic elements. The house also includes a gallery with life-sized replicas of all of the world's penguin species which is an excellent display.
SeaWorld San Diego
@geomorph
@pachyderm pro
ABQ Biopark
@SwampDonkey
@Coelacanth18
@Arizona Docent
ABQ is really nice, one of the best (if not the best) that I have personally seen. That said, the glass was incredibly foggy when I was there, making viewing very difficult. I am not sure if it is usually that way or not, but this seems to be an issue with many penguin and puffin habitats that I have seen.
SeaWorld SD looks very similar to SeaWorld Orlando, with the exception that Orlando does not have glass in front of you (it is fully open indoors).
SeaWorld SD looks very similar to SeaWorld Orlando, with the exception that Orlando does not have glass in front of you (it is fully open indoors).
77. Water’s Edge: Africa
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, CO
Opened: 2020
Size: 1.5 Acres (0.6 Hectares)
Inhabitants: Nile Hippo, Warthog, Ring-tailed Lemur, Guinea Pig, African Penguin, East African Crowned Crane, Pink-backed Pelican, Rainbow Trout
In an era where hippo exhibits have become frustratingly formulaic, it was quite a welcome surprise to see this innovative complex unveiled. Almost every hippo exhibit built within the last decade has followed the same mediocre standard, that being a small beach enclosure only capable of holding only a few animals and prioritizing underwater viewing over animal welfare. That is not the case for this exhibit which does not include underwater viewing, but instead focuses on several far more important features: substantial grazing space, proper separation areas, and room for a sizable pod. This is one of the only exhibits that doesn't neglect these aspects of hippo management and viewing is still very impressive. The large pool can be divided up and flows directly into the enormous hippo house which is easily the best of its kind in the US. The hippos are also mixed with warthogs, with areas where they can retreat to in the event the hippos get a little gung-ho. The other big draw of this exhibit is the walkthrough African penguin beach which is delightful and does include underwater viewing both indoors and out, as well as a dump tank to keep the pool in motion. While it may seem odd to bunch hippos and penguins together - as well as other seemingly inapposite species such as lemurs, guinea pigs and trout - it all serves a purpose of educating guests about water conservation and how water relates to different species.
@MGolka
@MGolka
@MGolka
@Echobeast
@MGolka
@MGolka
Similar Exhibits: None.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, CO
Opened: 2020
Size: 1.5 Acres (0.6 Hectares)
Inhabitants: Nile Hippo, Warthog, Ring-tailed Lemur, Guinea Pig, African Penguin, East African Crowned Crane, Pink-backed Pelican, Rainbow Trout
In an era where hippo exhibits have become frustratingly formulaic, it was quite a welcome surprise to see this innovative complex unveiled. Almost every hippo exhibit built within the last decade has followed the same mediocre standard, that being a small beach enclosure only capable of holding only a few animals and prioritizing underwater viewing over animal welfare. That is not the case for this exhibit which does not include underwater viewing, but instead focuses on several far more important features: substantial grazing space, proper separation areas, and room for a sizable pod. This is one of the only exhibits that doesn't neglect these aspects of hippo management and viewing is still very impressive. The large pool can be divided up and flows directly into the enormous hippo house which is easily the best of its kind in the US. The hippos are also mixed with warthogs, with areas where they can retreat to in the event the hippos get a little gung-ho. The other big draw of this exhibit is the walkthrough African penguin beach which is delightful and does include underwater viewing both indoors and out, as well as a dump tank to keep the pool in motion. While it may seem odd to bunch hippos and penguins together - as well as other seemingly inapposite species such as lemurs, guinea pigs and trout - it all serves a purpose of educating guests about water conservation and how water relates to different species.
@MGolka
@MGolka
@MGolka
@Echobeast
@MGolka
@MGolka
1. Hippo and Warthog Exhibit
2. Hippo Pool and Lemur Island
3. Warthog Seperation Area
4. Hippo House
5. African Penguin and Pink-backed Pelican Exhibit
6. Guinea Pig Exhibit
2. Hippo Pool and Lemur Island
3. Warthog Seperation Area
4. Hippo House
5. African Penguin and Pink-backed Pelican Exhibit
6. Guinea Pig Exhibit
Similar Exhibits: None.
Joseph G
Well-Known Member
77. Water’s Edge: Africa
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, CO
Opened: 2020
Size: 1.5 Acres (0.6 Hectares)
Inhabitants: Nile Hippo, Warthog, Ring-tailed Lemur, Guinea Pig, African Penguin, East African Crowned Crane, Pink-backed Pelican, Rainbow Trout
In an era where hippo exhibits have become frustratingly formulaic, it was quite a welcome surprise to see this innovative complex unveiled. Almost every hippo exhibit built within the last decade has followed the same mediocre standard, that being a small beach enclosure only capable of holding only a few animals and prioritizing underwater viewing over animal welfare. That is not the case for this exhibit which does not include underwater viewing, but instead focuses on several far more important features: substantial grazing space, proper separation areas, and room for a sizable pod. This is one of the only exhibits that doesn't neglect these aspects of hippo management and viewing is still very impressive. The large pool can be divided up and flows directly into the enormous hippo house which is easily the best of its kind in the US. The hippos are also mixed with warthogs, with areas where they can retreat to in the event the hippos get a little gung-ho. The other big draw of this exhibit is the walkthrough African penguin beach which is delightful and does include underwater viewing both indoors and out, as well as a dump tank to keep the pool in motion. While it may seem odd to bunch hippos and penguins together - as well as other seemingly inapposite species such as lemurs, guinea pigs and trout - it all serves a purpose of educating guests about water conservation and how water relates to different species.
@MGolka
@MGolka
@MGolka
@Echobeast
@MGolka
@MGolka
1. Hippo and Warthog Exhibit
2. Hippo Pool and Lemur Island
3. Warthog Seperation Area
4. Hippo House
5. African Penguin and Pink-backed Pelican Exhibit
6. Guinea Pig Exhibit
Similar Exhibits: None.
Honestly a top 10 exhibit for me. I went into Cheyenne completely blind my first visit and had no idea this was coming around the corner. Absolutely stunning to have that hippo house come right after what’s probably my favorite African penguin exhibit in the country.
Corangurilla
Well-Known Member
I haven’t been to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo since 2017, but once I’m able to go back, I’m 100% certain that this will become a top 3 exhibit for me, alongside Africa Rocks and the Polk Penguin Conservation Center (which was the exhibit before this one, oddly enough).77. Water’s Edge: Africa
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, CO
Opened: 2020
Size: 1.5 Acres (0.6 Hectares)
Inhabitants: Nile Hippo, Warthog, Ring-tailed Lemur, Guinea Pig, African Penguin, East African Crowned Crane, Pink-backed Pelican, Rainbow Trout
In an era where hippo exhibits have become frustratingly formulaic, it was quite a welcome surprise to see this innovative complex unveiled. Almost every hippo exhibit built within the last decade has followed the same mediocre standard, that being a small beach enclosure only capable of holding only a few animals and prioritizing underwater viewing over animal welfare. That is not the case for this exhibit which does not include underwater viewing, but instead focuses on several far more important features: substantial grazing space, proper separation areas, and room for a sizable pod. This is one of the only exhibits that doesn't neglect these aspects of hippo management and viewing is still very impressive. The large pool can be divided up and flows directly into the enormous hippo house which is easily the best of its kind in the US. The hippos are also mixed with warthogs, with areas where they can retreat to in the event the hippos get a little gung-ho. The other big draw of this exhibit is the walkthrough African penguin beach which is delightful and does include underwater viewing both indoors and out, as well as a dump tank to keep the pool in motion. While it may seem odd to bunch hippos and penguins together - as well as other seemingly inapposite species such as lemurs, guinea pigs and trout - it all serves a purpose of educating guests about water conservation and how water relates to different species.
@MGolka
@MGolka
@MGolka
@Echobeast
@MGolka
@MGolka
1. Hippo and Warthog Exhibit
2. Hippo Pool and Lemur Island
3. Warthog Seperation Area
4. Hippo House
5. African Penguin and Pink-backed Pelican Exhibit
6. Guinea Pig Exhibit
Similar Exhibits: None.
The zoo currently houses one adult male, two adult females and a male calf. The complex has a capacity of five individuals: a bull, two females and two calves.
Thanks @pachyderm pro ! Better than the standard couple setup but not yet fitting really natural social structure. Hippos management especially addressing male "surplus" (even without skewed sex ratio) is a tough task that zoos does not seem to care about especially when they're investing big money in underwater viewing. It imply very small group size and deny them social diversity. I guess bachelor is not working but has it ever been tried?
77. Water’s Edge: Africa
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, CO
Opened: 2020
Size: 1.5 Acres (0.6 Hectares)
Inhabitants: Nile Hippo, Warthog, Ring-tailed Lemur, Guinea Pig, African Penguin, East African Crowned Crane, Pink-backed Pelican, Rainbow Trout
In an era where hippo exhibits have become frustratingly formulaic, it was quite a welcome surprise to see this innovative complex unveiled. Almost every hippo exhibit built within the last decade has followed the same mediocre standard, that being a small beach enclosure only capable of holding only a few animals and prioritizing underwater viewing over animal welfare. That is not the case for this exhibit which does not include underwater viewing, but instead focuses on several far more important features: substantial grazing space, proper separation areas, and room for a sizable pod. This is one of the only exhibits that doesn't neglect these aspects of hippo management and viewing is still very impressive. The large pool can be divided up and flows directly into the enormous hippo house which is easily the best of its kind in the US. The hippos are also mixed with warthogs, with areas where they can retreat to in the event the hippos get a little gung-ho. The other big draw of this exhibit is the walkthrough African penguin beach which is delightful and does include underwater viewing both indoors and out, as well as a dump tank to keep the pool in motion. While it may seem odd to bunch hippos and penguins together - as well as other seemingly inapposite species such as lemurs, guinea pigs and trout - it all serves a purpose of educating guests about water conservation and how water relates to different species.
@MGolka
@MGolka
@MGolka
@Echobeast
@MGolka
@MGolka
1. Hippo and Warthog Exhibit
2. Hippo Pool and Lemur Island
3. Warthog Seperation Area
4. Hippo House
5. African Penguin and Pink-backed Pelican Exhibit
6. Guinea Pig Exhibit
Similar Exhibits: None.
I'm so glad this exhibit gets a spot on the list.
It's incredibly frustrating how the recently opened Hippo exhibits always have the same small land and a giant pool area which sacrifices a lot of space for crystal clear underwater viewing. Thank God for Cheyenne Mountain Zoo to show that yes, you can make a good hippo exhibit WITHOUT the crystal clear underwater viewing.
Besides, seeing hippos at the eye level are much more interesting point of view as well.
RIPPompadour
Active Member
They’d better not be arctic penguins. Stuff of legend and coca cola commercials, those are. Though if any facility could do it and make the public believe it…
77. Water’s Edge: Africa
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, CO
Opened: 2020
Size: 1.5 Acres (0.6 Hectares)
Inhabitants: Nile Hippo, Warthog, Ring-tailed Lemur, Guinea Pig, African Penguin, East African Crowned Crane, Pink-backed Pelican, Rainbow Trout
In an era where hippo exhibits have become frustratingly formulaic, it was quite a welcome surprise to see this innovative complex unveiled. Almost every hippo exhibit built within the last decade has followed the same mediocre standard, that being a small beach enclosure only capable of holding only a few animals and prioritizing underwater viewing over animal welfare. That is not the case for this exhibit which does not include underwater viewing, but instead focuses on several far more important features: substantial grazing space, proper separation areas, and room for a sizable pod. This is one of the only exhibits that doesn't neglect these aspects of hippo management and viewing is still very impressive. The large pool can be divided up and flows directly into the enormous hippo house which is easily the best of its kind in the US. The hippos are also mixed with warthogs, with areas where they can retreat to in the event the hippos get a little gung-ho. The other big draw of this exhibit is the walkthrough African penguin beach which is delightful and does include underwater viewing both indoors and out, as well as a dump tank to keep the pool in motion. While it may seem odd to bunch hippos and penguins together - as well as other seemingly inapposite species such as lemurs, guinea pigs and trout - it all serves a purpose of educating guests about water conservation and how water relates to different species.
@MGolka
@MGolka
@MGolka
@Echobeast
@MGolka
@MGolka
1. Hippo and Warthog Exhibit
2. Hippo Pool and Lemur Island
3. Warthog Seperation Area
4. Hippo House
5. African Penguin and Pink-backed Pelican Exhibit
6. Guinea Pig Exhibit
Similar Exhibits: None.
I was hoping to see this on here! Like a previous poster said, I went into Cheyenne Mountain Zoo blind with no expectations and was blown away by this penguin exhibit. It was a cold day, so no hippos, warthogs, or guinea pigs but I imagine a warm and sunny day would be amazing in this exhibit. Definitely one of the more memorable exhibits I've seen in a zoo.
78. Appalachian Cove Forest
Tennessee Aquarium, TN
Opened: 1992
Size: 7,500 Square Feet (700 Square Feet)
Inhabitants: North American River Otter, Northern Pine Snake, Black Rat Snake, several bird species and a variety of fish.
Contained within this 12 story high greenhouse is a small recreation of a temperate cove forest complete with towing canyons and trees both real and artificial. Cove forests are an ecosystem found only in the Appalachian mountains and no other exhibit focuses on the region quite like this. The appearance of the exhibit will change depending on the season, looking more lush in the Summer months and more plain in the Winter. The various free-flight birds create a rather tranquil scene, but at first sight most visitors will likely be engaged with the multi-tiered river otter enclosure with crystal clear underwater viewing. However, the most elaborate display is definitely the series of interconnected trout tanks which show off a variety of river environments. It begins with an open-topped tank covered by deadfall and rock formations, showing how larger fish will congregate in areas with abundant cover to hide from predators. Water from this tank flows into a separate pocket which contains a variety of smaller fish and continues into a 30,000 gallon tank which is viewed from two levels in a darkened hallway. The final tank is a much more shallow simulated mountain stream where the current is constantly changing. While this isn't the most diverse aquarium gallery, it is one of the most interesting displays of freshwater fish in any collection which is Tennessee Aquarium's speciality.
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
@geomorph
@Moebelle
Similar Exhibits: None.
Tennessee Aquarium, TN
Opened: 1992
Size: 7,500 Square Feet (700 Square Feet)
Inhabitants: North American River Otter, Northern Pine Snake, Black Rat Snake, several bird species and a variety of fish.
Contained within this 12 story high greenhouse is a small recreation of a temperate cove forest complete with towing canyons and trees both real and artificial. Cove forests are an ecosystem found only in the Appalachian mountains and no other exhibit focuses on the region quite like this. The appearance of the exhibit will change depending on the season, looking more lush in the Summer months and more plain in the Winter. The various free-flight birds create a rather tranquil scene, but at first sight most visitors will likely be engaged with the multi-tiered river otter enclosure with crystal clear underwater viewing. However, the most elaborate display is definitely the series of interconnected trout tanks which show off a variety of river environments. It begins with an open-topped tank covered by deadfall and rock formations, showing how larger fish will congregate in areas with abundant cover to hide from predators. Water from this tank flows into a separate pocket which contains a variety of smaller fish and continues into a 30,000 gallon tank which is viewed from two levels in a darkened hallway. The final tank is a much more shallow simulated mountain stream where the current is constantly changing. While this isn't the most diverse aquarium gallery, it is one of the most interesting displays of freshwater fish in any collection which is Tennessee Aquarium's speciality.
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
@Moebelle
@geomorph
@Moebelle
Similar Exhibits: None.
Persephone
Well-Known Member
Really love the Tennessee Aquarium. Great to see it here (and for something other than River Giants). I disagree there are no similar exhibits, even if they aren’t quite on the same scale. Just across the property there’s a second greenhouse on top of a building, this one with Madagascar species and tropical fish. The South Carolina Aquarium also has a rooftop greenhouse themed after a mountain stream, also with otters. It’s not nearly as grand, but it is similar.
Appalachian Cove is also wonderful because of the Tennessee Aquarium’s journey from the mountains to the ocean, starting on an escalator ride up and then steadily weaving your way down the building. The ocean building has a similar concept, going from an island to the seafloor. It’s not unprecedented, Great Lakes Aquarium also does it, but it’s really cool.
Appalachian Cove is also wonderful because of the Tennessee Aquarium’s journey from the mountains to the ocean, starting on an escalator ride up and then steadily weaving your way down the building. The ocean building has a similar concept, going from an island to the seafloor. It’s not unprecedented, Great Lakes Aquarium also does it, but it’s really cool.
79. Rhino Savanna
The Living Desert, CA
Opened: 2021
Size: 4 Acres (1.6 Hectares)
Inhabitants: Black Rhino, Waterbuck, Springbok, Banded Mongoose, Dwarf Mongoose, Naked Mole Rat, Cattle Egret, Pink-backed Pelican, Great White Pelican, Helmeted Guineafowl
White rhinos can frequently be found in mixed species habitats across the zoo world, commonly in large savanna enclosures. Black rhinos on the other hand have proven to be much more sensitive to sharing space with other species, which makes them an interesting choice for an elaborate mixed-species complex. Even in some of the largest field enclosures, adding black rhinos in with other animals has resulted in casualties, so some additional precautions were taken to ensure this exhibit would work well. The pachyderms still live in the same accommodation as a variety of antelope and bird species, but with the many hilly or elevated areas inaccessible to them which allow the other species to retreat if needed. The set-up is composed of a vast and scenic paddock which can be divided in two by an overhead crossing bridge. This keeps the rhinos separate from one another, but still allows the hoofstock to cross over as they please. Underneath that bridge is a series of tunnels for naked mole-rat, as well as two species of mongoose which is a pleasant surprise. This exhibit is indeed an experimental one, but so far the mix appears to be a success and it will be interesting to see if this will lead to other facilities following suit in the future.
@Coelacanth18
@Coelacanth18
@Coelacanth18
@Coelacanth18
@Coelacanth18
@Coelacanth18
Similar Exhibits: None.
The Living Desert, CA
Opened: 2021
Size: 4 Acres (1.6 Hectares)
Inhabitants: Black Rhino, Waterbuck, Springbok, Banded Mongoose, Dwarf Mongoose, Naked Mole Rat, Cattle Egret, Pink-backed Pelican, Great White Pelican, Helmeted Guineafowl
White rhinos can frequently be found in mixed species habitats across the zoo world, commonly in large savanna enclosures. Black rhinos on the other hand have proven to be much more sensitive to sharing space with other species, which makes them an interesting choice for an elaborate mixed-species complex. Even in some of the largest field enclosures, adding black rhinos in with other animals has resulted in casualties, so some additional precautions were taken to ensure this exhibit would work well. The pachyderms still live in the same accommodation as a variety of antelope and bird species, but with the many hilly or elevated areas inaccessible to them which allow the other species to retreat if needed. The set-up is composed of a vast and scenic paddock which can be divided in two by an overhead crossing bridge. This keeps the rhinos separate from one another, but still allows the hoofstock to cross over as they please. Underneath that bridge is a series of tunnels for naked mole-rat, as well as two species of mongoose which is a pleasant surprise. This exhibit is indeed an experimental one, but so far the mix appears to be a success and it will be interesting to see if this will lead to other facilities following suit in the future.
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Similar Exhibits: None.