Haven't posted for a very long time, so will probably have loads to say!
I never liked the sea lion enclosure. It didn't offer a particularly great viewing opportunity and seemed outdated. As a regular visitor I very rarely stopped at this exhibit. I can't wait to see how they've updated it for the otters.
Agree, yet another play area seems unnecessary , especially since it will be so close to the arc playground. Also, not sure how the Bongos will appreciate loads of noisy kids right next door. I would have thought they would need more peaceful surroundings.
I visited Chester a few weeks ago, and I have to agree with most of the posts. The outdated exhibits have long needed to be removed and i now have a real sense of anticipation as to how they will be updated or replaced. It is a shame that a lot of the animals have had to go off show, but i guess we all need to have patience. Judging by all the latest updates and additions whatever is planned in the future will be worth waiting for.
I like what is planned for the tropical realm. The stand alone 'glass house' exhibits are such a great idea! I have never seen anything like this ever before. I think it is so innovative and will bring to life whatever is planned to live inside. I love how the surrounding foliage and branches are mirrored inside the exhibit, I think this is the way forward for immersive reptile displays rather than just animals in a glass fronted box in the wall! When i visited they were empty. Iwonder if there are plans to construct loads more all over the tropical realm? I hope so. Also, this would be great to see in Hof A too.
On a final note, when I visited recently I was really delighted how active and engaged all the animals were. Apart from the spectacled bears & Bornean Orangs(nowhere to be seen - what a surprise!) I saw every species being really mobile, using the space in their exhibits, running around and just looking really contented. Highlights were jaguars/rhino (both species)/Birds of Paradise / elephants.i think chester is doing a great job of enrichment and general husbandry.