Do zoo animals have it too easy?

[Arizona Docent]

Isn't the idea behind this thread one of the driving points of rotational exhibits?

And yet how many rotational exhibits are there really? I have been to over 70 zoos and I would be hard pressed to give an example of even one that I have seen.

 

[Ituri]

Off the top of my head there is:

Islands at Louisville Zoo
Asian Forest Sanctuary at Point Defiance Zoo
Predator Ridge at Denver Zoo
Elephant Passage at Denver Zoo
Asian Highlands at Utah's Hogle Zoo

 

[Vulpes]

I often wondered if you had a well trained collie sheepdog, put a little stripped or spotted suit coat on him and round up the herds of hoofstock once every few weeks, would it be of any benefit? it would be a controlled "predator" situation!

 

[FBBird]

Do zoo animals....?

Not all herd animals 'bunch & run' like sheep, some scatter, panic & leap fences. Your collie could end up skewered by an offended Oryx, or trampled by Buffalo.

 

[Bailey13]

With some species it could certainly be beneficial, especially if they're destined for repatriation. Don't think the dog would need a costume - just a plain old dog would most likely be enough. It'd have to be done with some caution for the well being of all involved - maybe start tentatively and see how things go - but it could be a very good idea.

I wonder if it could work both ways - Auckland Zoo's cheetahs are often taken for walks around the zoo on leads. Strolling them through a herd of something could be very enriching for both species, although I wonder if their good behaviour while leashed would continue if suddenly surrounded by moving prey...