After briefly hinting at it in the Zoo's news thread, here are my thoughts on this very well-known facility. Just like with my Columbus review a couple years ago, the review will be split into two parts as I spent two days here. Enjoy!
Review of Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
Often considered among the top attractions in Nebraska, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium opened in 1894. However, it was not until the 1970’s that Henry Doorly started to become a major force in the zoological realm. Great strides have been made in conservation and breeding, from the world’s first test-tube tiger born in 1990, to the first gaur ever born via artificial insemination in 1993. At this time, Omaha also began introducing some of the largest and most famous exhibit complexes (Lied Jungle, Cat Complex, Simmons Aviary, etc.) the country has ever seen, receiving vast acclaim and controversy alike – depending on who you ask.
A word to describe this Zoo is “BIG.” It is a large zoo at over 130 acres; it has some the largest exhibit complexes to be found not just in North America, but across the globe; it has an enormous collection of 17,000 specimens making up 962 species; and, in my opinion, it has a HUGE appeal. This is primarily thanks to the superb exhibitry and animal collection, both of which cover almost every aspect that one could think of. Top that with its numerous opportunities for visitors on the side, strong community support, a bright future, and extensive conservation programs, and the result is a zoological establishment that has just about everything one – whether they are a zoo fanatic or casual visitor – could ask for.
African Grasslands – The Zoo’s first project in the master plan to be completed. At about 30 acres, this 2016 addition is massive, taking up almost the entire right side of the property when looking at the map. Passing under the archway, the trail winds through some tall grasses, a highly convincing start to my experience in Africa. The grasses soon part, revealing a kopje section, which kicks off the animal exhibits. Up first is a magnificent mixed-species habitat for meerkat, klipspringer, and leopard tortoise; there is a lot of variation in elevation, branches, sand, and even an indoor room during inclement weather. It is a fantastic start, and perhaps the best exhibit I’ve seen for the superstar meerkats. An equally large and excellent enclosure is around the corner, this time housing rock hyrax and numerous birds (Kenya crested guineafowl, superb starling, and golden-breasted starling) in a mesh-enclosed area dominated by huge boulders. Of these animals, I only saw the birds and no hyraxes. The last enclosure here is sandwiched in between: a small white-throated monitor (a first for me) exhibit. Trekking down the hill, two major savanna habitats that take up almost the entire valley below can be seen. One can get several vantage points throughout, whether it is overlooking an entire section, getting bits and pieces at different points, or even looking upwards – rather extraordinary and something one doesn’t come across very often! The first was my favorite of the two – giraffes, ostriches, impala, white storks (didn’t see), and two male lesser kudu (recently added) share a long, grassy habitat that is gorgeous to gaze upon. With the enormous trees offering a good amount of shade, the savanna had a unique feel reminiscent of the one built in Fort Worth. A couple of intriguing components can be found at one end of this exhibit: first is a pavilion that allows for feeding and up-close encounters with the tall mammals, though this was closed off during my visit. Second, because the giraffe quarters are situated across the pathway, a gate has been erected for the gentle giants to cross from building to exhibit. I’m sure this is a great sight to see at opening/closing time! On a side note, a portion of this habitat was sectioned-off for a single white rhino that could be seen better from the bottom of the valley (Does the rhino not get along with the others? Is it to help with the kudu transition?). Near the end of the descent, the other savanna habitat emerges into view – this time housing African elephants, two plains zebras, and more impala (didn’t see). The Zoo’s herd of elephants, most of which consist of the 2016 rescued herd from Swaziland, were found in a dedicated enclosure that was a bit small for the number of animals it held, but came with lots of sand, some shade, and a few browse feeders. The main exhibit, which only held the zebras during my time, is apparently a little over three acres and is laid out a bit odd with the two main sections stationed at each end, and a narrow middle area connecting them. However, it appeared to be a great habitat with hilly terrain, and a mix of dirt and grass throughout; one section contained some protected trees, a good-sized mud wallow, and a large amphitheater for behavior demos, while the other is dominated by a massive, refreshing pool; it is certainly one of the better-quality African elephant exhibits I’ve seen. One final note I’d like to make here is that my visit marked the first time I heard elephants vocalize! While up by the giraffes, I heard trumpeting down below – I looked down and could see the elephants running around, ears fanned out in an intimidating show of nature. Then, I saw what appeared to be a wild white-tailed deer bolt past them. They surely must’ve been freaked out by the odd impala lookalike that unintentionally found its way in!
It’s a pity I wasn’t at the exhibit at the time, but it was still cool to catch a bit of the action nonetheless. The last section found here is a little petting kraal with African pygmy goats that was closed off.
Crossing a bridge over a scenic lagoon takes one past a lush island with African pink-backed pelicans, before taking on the final set of habitats, which is on a hilly loop trail. A large, well-vegetated habitat for bongo is up first, situated on an incline and also comes with a small pool. This is followed by a trio of small African spurred tortoise pens, a fantastic sable antelope savanna that is huge for the majestic species, and an extensive education plaza designed like an African base camp. Some of these features include a jeep, a research chopper, a group of white-pitched tents for overnight events, and even a crate that was used to transport one of the Swaziland elephants. There is also a small refreshment area to take a break from what might as well have been the blazing African sun. All of this theming was really top-notch, and highly effective in giving the complex that immersive touch. The abundant attention to detail transitions to the massive lion habitat nearby. Not only is there a jeep parked halfway through the glass at one point, but there is also a lookout tower much like those that rangers in African preserves use; I imagine keepers use this to observe the cats on display or during feedings. Nearby is an amphitheater that offers a look at lion behavioral training. Huge panes of glass and some open-air views gaze into the king of the jungle’s domain, which is a take I have not seen before. Most lion habitats focus on the open plains, but Omaha provides a gigantic mountain of rocks as the centerpiece, with an emphasis on representing the kopjes that cats in the wild often use. It’s a unique breath of fresh air, and is really well done – to have to actually look up to find two lions was quite a treat! Continuing down the hill, there is a separate fossil cave area that was pretty cool, and finally a great habitat for a pair of cheetahs, which offers grassy hills, and a nice view of the lagoon below.
Expedition Madagascar – One of the most extensive collections of Malagasy species in a zoological facility can be found here. A hallway situated within a large building is the first component, consisting of many nice features, and a few that can use some adjustments. The positive elements include some impressive terrariums for herps, as they are roomy and have many naturalistic details. Some of the species include: chameleon (panther and Oustalet’s), flat-tailed tortoise (another first), spiny-tailed iguana, Madagascar hognose snake, Madagascar ground boa, and several types of mantellas. In addition, as Omaha works hard with ex-situ conservation on the island, there is signage galore that spotlights these accomplishments, including the discovery of some new lemur species. The highlight, in my opinion, is the nocturnal area with a lush terrarium with gecko (don’t recall the species); a straw-colored fruit bat exhibit; a mixed-species habitat for Malagasy jumping rat and grey mouse lemur (both firsts); and the centerpiece is a large, branch-filled, height-varying habitat for aye-ayes and fruit bats. It was a nice appetizer to my experience in Kingdoms of the Night the following day. On the other hand, the lemur exhibits (containing ring-tailed, collared brown, and mongoose species) work nicely if they were just the interior, with an array of branches to clamber around on, and one of them even has a sandy substrate. However, because they are the entire habitats for these occupants, they are a bit on the small side, and it would be nice to give them outdoor access. This can be fixed via access to one of the existing outdoor habitats, or even some overhead trails to scurry through. Also, I feel that the visitor area could probably have benefited from more immersive details such as representing different biomes of Madagascar. Carrying on outside, a pair of fossa resides in a decent-sized habitat that is packed with foliage, followed by a trio of lemur habitats. First, there’s an island (with ring-tailed and collared brown lemurs) that is average in size, with its point of interest being the artificial baobab trees that take up a huge portion, along with some ropes and vines thrown in. Across the boardwalk is a tall, mesh habitat packed with climbing opportunities to occupy the two species (black-and-white ruffed and crowned), and is very nicely done. Finally, there is the walkthrough habitat with red ruffed lemurs and a few bird species (I couldn’t quite read the signs, but I could make out a type of ibis and heron), one of the few walkthrough primate exhibits in the country. The habitat itself looks excellent, with its large size and lush foliage. Sadly, this exhibit was closed off, but I can easily see this being a huge hit with visitors. On the whole, this complex does have some components that can be improved on, but it has many unique elements and species that make it well worth a look.
Asian Highlands – Constructed on previously undeveloped land, this project opened in two phases. Phase One opened in 2018, and starts without even going under the entry sign. A mixed-species habitat for red panda and Chinese muntjac greets the curious visitors before the steep hike. It’s a good size for the two different animals, and there are plenty of branches on offer, though some additional natural features would’ve been nice to see. As the multi-colored flags above, each representing the animals waiting to be experienced, sway gently in the breeze, the gray-brick archway beckons. Shortly after, there is a grassy enclosure for a pair of white-naped crane that allows for very close viewing, and also looks into the larger Indian rhino/Pere David’s deer habitat. Speaking of which, the two species share a large dirt habitat that has a couple bodies of water and is nicely shaded. The deer and two rhinos (a mother and one-year-old son) were exploring this area, while the large, male rhino was in a smaller paddock next-door. The final component of Phase 1 is a lush habitat for two tufted deer. At this point, the path splits up, with signs recommending one to trek along up river, which leads to the area consisting of Phase Two (opened in 2019). Crossing underneath the train bridge that bisects this complex, the sensation of being in a mountain forest truly begins, with the trail winding past boulders big and small, and tall trees offering shady relief. Soon, the first look into a massive habitat for a sloth bear comes into view. While the viewing is predominantly through mesh, the only drawback in my opinion, and there is only a single window at one end, the bear habitat is wonderful – a forest edge oasis that is almost entirely shaded, with tons of space and green hills to romp around, and several opportunities to clamber around, from the cluster of logs to some temple ruins. It is possibly the greatest habitat for this bear species I’ve come across thus far. Continuing the climb brings one to the “Foggy Forest,” an interactive nature trail to encourage children to explore and search for signs of animal activity; this unfortunately was closed off as well. Then comes an extraordinary sight – stone ruins that seemingly make up a lost civilization have been incorporated into viewing windows. This awesome display is set-up for viewing an awesome big cat – the Amur tiger. The temple court now serves as an educational spot for guests, with one example being its circular chambers, describing how tigers mark their territory. Looking into the feline’s territory itself, it is a solid exhibit. While the pool is on the small side, and it could use a bit more foliage (though it could also just be the fact that it needs time to grow), the defining feature is the grassy, shrub-filled hill that takes up the center and creates a scenic forest backdrop. Because of its design, the exhibit doesn’t seem very big at first, but upon closer inspection of the fence line, it’s easy to see that this is quite a large home for tigers. High-rising temple stairs in an adjacent area appear as if they were repurposed into a seating area to observe tiger demonstrations as an additional feature. Up next are two of the best habitats of their kind that I have ever seen – snow leopard and takin. Starting with the elusive felines, their good-sized habitat offers lots of height to take advantage of, from the grassy hills at the base of the enclosure, to the snow-capped cliff-face that towers in the background. It is truly an amazing sight to see the cats resting near the top of the “mountain!”
Right next-door is an equally impressive habitat shared by Sichuan takin and a single Central Chinese goral. There is a nice-sized grassy hill towards the back, while front and center is a huge assortment of rocky crags. Tons of sections for the agile hoofstock to show off their tremendous climbing and leaping abilities are on offer, which the goral took advantage of during my visit. On one side is a waterfall that spills into a beautiful stream at the bottom of the cliff – a truly stunning scene to end this experience. Lastly, between the two takin viewing areas sits a tranquil oriental village, known as the “Yeti Camp.” This is a nice place to grab a snack, have a breather, and take in the authentic-looking buildings and scenery. Reflecting on my first day at this Zoo, this was my favorite exhibit complex. With its cast of astonishing creatures, the mostly excellent-quality exhibits they inhabit, the cultural attention to detail, and the sense of immersion, whether it is natural or man-made, all of these elements combine to make this journey from the lowlands of Asia, all the way up the highlands of the Himalayas a genuinely exciting experience. I can only imagine how fantastic this section would look in the wintertime…
Owen Sea Lion Shores – The Zoo’s newest exhibit complex (opened about two weeks ago!), and just a slice of what will eventually be part of “Pacific Northwest.” This 1.5-acre section took over what was once “Durhams Bear Canyon,” previously the home of various species of bears, before a colony of California sea lions moved in. Although a little smaller than I imagined, this pinniped section has an overall great execution, from the educational displays to the realistic feel of being on the west coast. The informative signage covers a lot of topics, from sea lion lifestyles, to water conservation both in the field and right in the state of Nebraska, to pollution and debris that is harming the Pacific’s fragile ecosystems. Several components combine to make this shore excursion feel like an authentic and entertaining experience, including an amphitheater where I’m sure behavior demos and/or feedings will take place; a big sand play area for children to dig around in search of miniature sea creatures; a narrow, declining trail with plant-dotted cliffs that tower overhead; the sounds of the sea playing in the background from the cries of seagulls, to the barking choir of sea lions; and a plethora of viewing opportunities, such as the large above-water views on the shore, and the colossal finale underwater window to watch the sea lions acrobatically flip, dive, and dart through the water. The sea lion habitat itself is high quality, with a few areas for the animals to haul their bodies out of the water to sunbath, and highly authentic rockwork adorned with sea stars and moss as a very nice touch. The large body of water not only offers plenty of swimming space, but it actually simulates large waves, leading to a series of crashes against the shores and seaside cliffs. The cherry on top is found next to the amphitheater: a pupping beach. This is a small cove where young pups can practice their swimming skills, under the watchful eye of their mothers. It’s something common in the wild, but the Zoo considers this to be the first of its kind in the zoo world; another fine example of how Omaha continuously tries to up the game in exhibitry. Overall, this is a great first step for what will hopefully be the Zoo’s next major geographical exhibit complex.
HIGHLIGHT OF THE DAY: With the intriguing takin and goral navigating their rocky landscape, and getting some phenomenal views of the impala and kudu through the tall grass (with some great photos to boot), it was an excellent day for viewing active hoofstock.
However, there was one event that stood out among the rest – a pair of bongo was in a sparring match almost the entire time I was at their exhibit. With horns clashing and each animal trying to position itself on the little hill for the advantage, it made for an intense face-off. There was a brief moment of truce, but that didn’t last long before one bongo reignited the match. This was the most active I’ve ever seen bongo, as this is normally a rather calm antelope from what I’ve seen.
Review of Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
Often considered among the top attractions in Nebraska, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium opened in 1894. However, it was not until the 1970’s that Henry Doorly started to become a major force in the zoological realm. Great strides have been made in conservation and breeding, from the world’s first test-tube tiger born in 1990, to the first gaur ever born via artificial insemination in 1993. At this time, Omaha also began introducing some of the largest and most famous exhibit complexes (Lied Jungle, Cat Complex, Simmons Aviary, etc.) the country has ever seen, receiving vast acclaim and controversy alike – depending on who you ask.
A word to describe this Zoo is “BIG.” It is a large zoo at over 130 acres; it has some the largest exhibit complexes to be found not just in North America, but across the globe; it has an enormous collection of 17,000 specimens making up 962 species; and, in my opinion, it has a HUGE appeal. This is primarily thanks to the superb exhibitry and animal collection, both of which cover almost every aspect that one could think of. Top that with its numerous opportunities for visitors on the side, strong community support, a bright future, and extensive conservation programs, and the result is a zoological establishment that has just about everything one – whether they are a zoo fanatic or casual visitor – could ask for.
Part 1: Around the World in Seven Hours
Animal Exhibit Complexes
African Grasslands – The Zoo’s first project in the master plan to be completed. At about 30 acres, this 2016 addition is massive, taking up almost the entire right side of the property when looking at the map. Passing under the archway, the trail winds through some tall grasses, a highly convincing start to my experience in Africa. The grasses soon part, revealing a kopje section, which kicks off the animal exhibits. Up first is a magnificent mixed-species habitat for meerkat, klipspringer, and leopard tortoise; there is a lot of variation in elevation, branches, sand, and even an indoor room during inclement weather. It is a fantastic start, and perhaps the best exhibit I’ve seen for the superstar meerkats. An equally large and excellent enclosure is around the corner, this time housing rock hyrax and numerous birds (Kenya crested guineafowl, superb starling, and golden-breasted starling) in a mesh-enclosed area dominated by huge boulders. Of these animals, I only saw the birds and no hyraxes. The last enclosure here is sandwiched in between: a small white-throated monitor (a first for me) exhibit. Trekking down the hill, two major savanna habitats that take up almost the entire valley below can be seen. One can get several vantage points throughout, whether it is overlooking an entire section, getting bits and pieces at different points, or even looking upwards – rather extraordinary and something one doesn’t come across very often! The first was my favorite of the two – giraffes, ostriches, impala, white storks (didn’t see), and two male lesser kudu (recently added) share a long, grassy habitat that is gorgeous to gaze upon. With the enormous trees offering a good amount of shade, the savanna had a unique feel reminiscent of the one built in Fort Worth. A couple of intriguing components can be found at one end of this exhibit: first is a pavilion that allows for feeding and up-close encounters with the tall mammals, though this was closed off during my visit. Second, because the giraffe quarters are situated across the pathway, a gate has been erected for the gentle giants to cross from building to exhibit. I’m sure this is a great sight to see at opening/closing time! On a side note, a portion of this habitat was sectioned-off for a single white rhino that could be seen better from the bottom of the valley (Does the rhino not get along with the others? Is it to help with the kudu transition?). Near the end of the descent, the other savanna habitat emerges into view – this time housing African elephants, two plains zebras, and more impala (didn’t see). The Zoo’s herd of elephants, most of which consist of the 2016 rescued herd from Swaziland, were found in a dedicated enclosure that was a bit small for the number of animals it held, but came with lots of sand, some shade, and a few browse feeders. The main exhibit, which only held the zebras during my time, is apparently a little over three acres and is laid out a bit odd with the two main sections stationed at each end, and a narrow middle area connecting them. However, it appeared to be a great habitat with hilly terrain, and a mix of dirt and grass throughout; one section contained some protected trees, a good-sized mud wallow, and a large amphitheater for behavior demos, while the other is dominated by a massive, refreshing pool; it is certainly one of the better-quality African elephant exhibits I’ve seen. One final note I’d like to make here is that my visit marked the first time I heard elephants vocalize! While up by the giraffes, I heard trumpeting down below – I looked down and could see the elephants running around, ears fanned out in an intimidating show of nature. Then, I saw what appeared to be a wild white-tailed deer bolt past them. They surely must’ve been freaked out by the odd impala lookalike that unintentionally found its way in!
It’s a pity I wasn’t at the exhibit at the time, but it was still cool to catch a bit of the action nonetheless. The last section found here is a little petting kraal with African pygmy goats that was closed off.Crossing a bridge over a scenic lagoon takes one past a lush island with African pink-backed pelicans, before taking on the final set of habitats, which is on a hilly loop trail. A large, well-vegetated habitat for bongo is up first, situated on an incline and also comes with a small pool. This is followed by a trio of small African spurred tortoise pens, a fantastic sable antelope savanna that is huge for the majestic species, and an extensive education plaza designed like an African base camp. Some of these features include a jeep, a research chopper, a group of white-pitched tents for overnight events, and even a crate that was used to transport one of the Swaziland elephants. There is also a small refreshment area to take a break from what might as well have been the blazing African sun. All of this theming was really top-notch, and highly effective in giving the complex that immersive touch. The abundant attention to detail transitions to the massive lion habitat nearby. Not only is there a jeep parked halfway through the glass at one point, but there is also a lookout tower much like those that rangers in African preserves use; I imagine keepers use this to observe the cats on display or during feedings. Nearby is an amphitheater that offers a look at lion behavioral training. Huge panes of glass and some open-air views gaze into the king of the jungle’s domain, which is a take I have not seen before. Most lion habitats focus on the open plains, but Omaha provides a gigantic mountain of rocks as the centerpiece, with an emphasis on representing the kopjes that cats in the wild often use. It’s a unique breath of fresh air, and is really well done – to have to actually look up to find two lions was quite a treat! Continuing down the hill, there is a separate fossil cave area that was pretty cool, and finally a great habitat for a pair of cheetahs, which offers grassy hills, and a nice view of the lagoon below.
Expedition Madagascar – One of the most extensive collections of Malagasy species in a zoological facility can be found here. A hallway situated within a large building is the first component, consisting of many nice features, and a few that can use some adjustments. The positive elements include some impressive terrariums for herps, as they are roomy and have many naturalistic details. Some of the species include: chameleon (panther and Oustalet’s), flat-tailed tortoise (another first), spiny-tailed iguana, Madagascar hognose snake, Madagascar ground boa, and several types of mantellas. In addition, as Omaha works hard with ex-situ conservation on the island, there is signage galore that spotlights these accomplishments, including the discovery of some new lemur species. The highlight, in my opinion, is the nocturnal area with a lush terrarium with gecko (don’t recall the species); a straw-colored fruit bat exhibit; a mixed-species habitat for Malagasy jumping rat and grey mouse lemur (both firsts); and the centerpiece is a large, branch-filled, height-varying habitat for aye-ayes and fruit bats. It was a nice appetizer to my experience in Kingdoms of the Night the following day. On the other hand, the lemur exhibits (containing ring-tailed, collared brown, and mongoose species) work nicely if they were just the interior, with an array of branches to clamber around on, and one of them even has a sandy substrate. However, because they are the entire habitats for these occupants, they are a bit on the small side, and it would be nice to give them outdoor access. This can be fixed via access to one of the existing outdoor habitats, or even some overhead trails to scurry through. Also, I feel that the visitor area could probably have benefited from more immersive details such as representing different biomes of Madagascar. Carrying on outside, a pair of fossa resides in a decent-sized habitat that is packed with foliage, followed by a trio of lemur habitats. First, there’s an island (with ring-tailed and collared brown lemurs) that is average in size, with its point of interest being the artificial baobab trees that take up a huge portion, along with some ropes and vines thrown in. Across the boardwalk is a tall, mesh habitat packed with climbing opportunities to occupy the two species (black-and-white ruffed and crowned), and is very nicely done. Finally, there is the walkthrough habitat with red ruffed lemurs and a few bird species (I couldn’t quite read the signs, but I could make out a type of ibis and heron), one of the few walkthrough primate exhibits in the country. The habitat itself looks excellent, with its large size and lush foliage. Sadly, this exhibit was closed off, but I can easily see this being a huge hit with visitors. On the whole, this complex does have some components that can be improved on, but it has many unique elements and species that make it well worth a look.
Asian Highlands – Constructed on previously undeveloped land, this project opened in two phases. Phase One opened in 2018, and starts without even going under the entry sign. A mixed-species habitat for red panda and Chinese muntjac greets the curious visitors before the steep hike. It’s a good size for the two different animals, and there are plenty of branches on offer, though some additional natural features would’ve been nice to see. As the multi-colored flags above, each representing the animals waiting to be experienced, sway gently in the breeze, the gray-brick archway beckons. Shortly after, there is a grassy enclosure for a pair of white-naped crane that allows for very close viewing, and also looks into the larger Indian rhino/Pere David’s deer habitat. Speaking of which, the two species share a large dirt habitat that has a couple bodies of water and is nicely shaded. The deer and two rhinos (a mother and one-year-old son) were exploring this area, while the large, male rhino was in a smaller paddock next-door. The final component of Phase 1 is a lush habitat for two tufted deer. At this point, the path splits up, with signs recommending one to trek along up river, which leads to the area consisting of Phase Two (opened in 2019). Crossing underneath the train bridge that bisects this complex, the sensation of being in a mountain forest truly begins, with the trail winding past boulders big and small, and tall trees offering shady relief. Soon, the first look into a massive habitat for a sloth bear comes into view. While the viewing is predominantly through mesh, the only drawback in my opinion, and there is only a single window at one end, the bear habitat is wonderful – a forest edge oasis that is almost entirely shaded, with tons of space and green hills to romp around, and several opportunities to clamber around, from the cluster of logs to some temple ruins. It is possibly the greatest habitat for this bear species I’ve come across thus far. Continuing the climb brings one to the “Foggy Forest,” an interactive nature trail to encourage children to explore and search for signs of animal activity; this unfortunately was closed off as well. Then comes an extraordinary sight – stone ruins that seemingly make up a lost civilization have been incorporated into viewing windows. This awesome display is set-up for viewing an awesome big cat – the Amur tiger. The temple court now serves as an educational spot for guests, with one example being its circular chambers, describing how tigers mark their territory. Looking into the feline’s territory itself, it is a solid exhibit. While the pool is on the small side, and it could use a bit more foliage (though it could also just be the fact that it needs time to grow), the defining feature is the grassy, shrub-filled hill that takes up the center and creates a scenic forest backdrop. Because of its design, the exhibit doesn’t seem very big at first, but upon closer inspection of the fence line, it’s easy to see that this is quite a large home for tigers. High-rising temple stairs in an adjacent area appear as if they were repurposed into a seating area to observe tiger demonstrations as an additional feature. Up next are two of the best habitats of their kind that I have ever seen – snow leopard and takin. Starting with the elusive felines, their good-sized habitat offers lots of height to take advantage of, from the grassy hills at the base of the enclosure, to the snow-capped cliff-face that towers in the background. It is truly an amazing sight to see the cats resting near the top of the “mountain!”
Right next-door is an equally impressive habitat shared by Sichuan takin and a single Central Chinese goral. There is a nice-sized grassy hill towards the back, while front and center is a huge assortment of rocky crags. Tons of sections for the agile hoofstock to show off their tremendous climbing and leaping abilities are on offer, which the goral took advantage of during my visit. On one side is a waterfall that spills into a beautiful stream at the bottom of the cliff – a truly stunning scene to end this experience. Lastly, between the two takin viewing areas sits a tranquil oriental village, known as the “Yeti Camp.” This is a nice place to grab a snack, have a breather, and take in the authentic-looking buildings and scenery. Reflecting on my first day at this Zoo, this was my favorite exhibit complex. With its cast of astonishing creatures, the mostly excellent-quality exhibits they inhabit, the cultural attention to detail, and the sense of immersion, whether it is natural or man-made, all of these elements combine to make this journey from the lowlands of Asia, all the way up the highlands of the Himalayas a genuinely exciting experience. I can only imagine how fantastic this section would look in the wintertime…Owen Sea Lion Shores – The Zoo’s newest exhibit complex (opened about two weeks ago!), and just a slice of what will eventually be part of “Pacific Northwest.” This 1.5-acre section took over what was once “Durhams Bear Canyon,” previously the home of various species of bears, before a colony of California sea lions moved in. Although a little smaller than I imagined, this pinniped section has an overall great execution, from the educational displays to the realistic feel of being on the west coast. The informative signage covers a lot of topics, from sea lion lifestyles, to water conservation both in the field and right in the state of Nebraska, to pollution and debris that is harming the Pacific’s fragile ecosystems. Several components combine to make this shore excursion feel like an authentic and entertaining experience, including an amphitheater where I’m sure behavior demos and/or feedings will take place; a big sand play area for children to dig around in search of miniature sea creatures; a narrow, declining trail with plant-dotted cliffs that tower overhead; the sounds of the sea playing in the background from the cries of seagulls, to the barking choir of sea lions; and a plethora of viewing opportunities, such as the large above-water views on the shore, and the colossal finale underwater window to watch the sea lions acrobatically flip, dive, and dart through the water. The sea lion habitat itself is high quality, with a few areas for the animals to haul their bodies out of the water to sunbath, and highly authentic rockwork adorned with sea stars and moss as a very nice touch. The large body of water not only offers plenty of swimming space, but it actually simulates large waves, leading to a series of crashes against the shores and seaside cliffs. The cherry on top is found next to the amphitheater: a pupping beach. This is a small cove where young pups can practice their swimming skills, under the watchful eye of their mothers. It’s something common in the wild, but the Zoo considers this to be the first of its kind in the zoo world; another fine example of how Omaha continuously tries to up the game in exhibitry. Overall, this is a great first step for what will hopefully be the Zoo’s next major geographical exhibit complex.
HIGHLIGHT OF THE DAY: With the intriguing takin and goral navigating their rocky landscape, and getting some phenomenal views of the impala and kudu through the tall grass (with some great photos to boot), it was an excellent day for viewing active hoofstock.
However, there was one event that stood out among the rest – a pair of bongo was in a sparring match almost the entire time I was at their exhibit. With horns clashing and each animal trying to position itself on the little hill for the advantage, it made for an intense face-off. There was a brief moment of truce, but that didn’t last long before one bongo reignited the match. This was the most active I’ve ever seen bongo, as this is normally a rather calm antelope from what I’ve seen.
