Construction on former Monkey Island seemed to be going well with much of the concrete substance already formed and molded. However, I was VERY disappointed in the washers being littered around the grounds. If you are unaware, the zoo hands out recycled, metal washers upon admission. The purpose of this is to place them in one of three containers that each represent a different conservation mission. (Resolving the palm oil plantation crisis in Sumatra, working with Masai warriors on conserving lions, and to help migratory songbirds) You insert the washer and watch it swirl down into the collection tub which is entertaining for kids and adults alike. I am passionate about Indonesia and its wildlife so I was quite dismayed to witness people place their metal, yet meaningful, washers in the lion collection tub. Sure, they're threatened with extinction (Vulnerable), HOWEVER, there are mass production game ranches in Africa that raise these animals by the dozens, along with the admiration of the public which can clearly be demonstrated by their population in zoos worldwide. I do care for their preservation, but the mass destruction of Indonesia islands is little known to the general public. I simply wish that Fort Wayne Children's Zoo, with their Indonesia exhibit, would attempt to better educate the public on this frightening epidemic.
Upon traveling through the Indonesian dome, I could see dozens of washers thrown in the water near the exit doors.
I was convinced that this location was simply the people voicing their opinion. They wanted to save Indonesia! My sister and I reached over the rail and around it to fish these washers out...I know...desperate. We did it while no one was there. There were tons of coins in the bottom, however, I found it rather comedic that we were fishing out the seemingly useless pieces of metal rather than the valuable coins. We were only able to gather 4 of them. I then placed these in the collections bins at the front in the Sumatran conservation bin believe it or not. It was an eventful day and a great experience overall. Truly would encourage people to visit this institution if they are nearby. My main wish in the end is that all the washers would be placed in the Sumatran bin as they were found in the Indonesian Rain Forest exhibit as well as this subject needing the most attention from the public.
Best regards and may you have a blessed day.
