Auckland Zoo Future Development of Auckland Zoo (Speculation)

[Jambo]

I do think the little blue penguins can easily be phased out, as although very cute, they're seldom easy to spot and hardly ever use the pool, so perhaps they would be better off housed elsewhere.

There's a few other areas in the zoo that they could renovate for the Little Penguins.

One option is the former Short Clawed Otter enclosure which is currently unused. It's a decent size and already comes with a decent sized pool and underwater viewing window. Perfect!

Another option is one of the Tasmanian Devil enclosures, which would be renovated to house them. The benefit in this case is that they'd be viewable in the Australian trail. They're also native to Australian shores, so it makes sense geographical wise. I also don't see why they need two Tasmanian Devil enclosures if they can have a pair together in one.

The NZ Wetlands Aviary is also another option that I thought of. They can cohabit with some of the other bird species in there, and as most don't even utilise the water space anyway there wouldn't need to be much renovations here to accommodate them.

 

[Zoofan15]

Future Developments - Post 1/2 (News)

On my previous visit, a keeper advised senior management had recently held a meeting to discuss the masterplan; and I’m pleased to report from my visit this week that the masterplan has indeed undergone a revision.

With regards to the playground concept, the keeper I spoke to this week said they’ve ‘gone back to the drawing board’ and the current plan now is to build play spaces interwoven with animal exhibits. This is a concept already implemented throughout the zoo (the baboon and spider monkey exhibits each have small playgrounds running parallel to them; and is an idea many of us have proposed as being preferable to wiping out exhibits to build a massive playground. The 2022 masterplan map previously implied the Hamadryas baboon, Cheetah and Serval exhibits would be demolished; while comments on socials in 2023 as reported by @ApeLadyNZ suggested the Subantarctic fur seal and Little blue penguin exhibits were also at risk (with a keeper also confirming to me the phase out of pinnipeds).

No additional play spaces at all and a retention of all species under threat of phase out would have been even better; but this appears to be a compromise at least.

I will discuss this news further in the following post as I want to seperate fact from speculation.

 

[Zoofan15]

Future Developments - Post 2/2 (Speculation)

In considering how the idea above would pan out, I think it’s important to consider which species pair well with play areas. The obvious answer is meerkats (tunnels), baboons (climbing) and penguins (fountains).

With this in mind, this is what I envisage (please note this is speculation):

————————————

Phase 1: Fountains:

Demolition of the Subantarctic fur seal exhibit
Retention of the Little blue penguin exhibit

The rationale behind phasing out pinnipeds (the infrastructure being at the end of its working life) hasn’t changed, so I struggle to see this exhibit being renewed. It represents a reasonably large space to build fountains for kids to run through and a water based playground where kids alter the pathway of water along a channel.

Adjacent to this would be the existing Little blue penguin exhibit, with a possibility it could be expanded. The have recently acquired two new penguins, suggesting long term interest in sustaining a colony of this species.

Phase 2: Climbing:

Demolition of the Cheetah exhibit
Retention of the Hamadryas baboon exhibit

It seems unlikely Cheetah have a future at Auckland Zoo. Their exhibit is 20 years old and looks cramped by today’s standards. I could see a climbing based playground being built in this space, which is adjacent to the baboon exhibit.

The baboon exhibit is extremely popular with the general public and entirely suitable for this species. Two and a half decades after it was constructed, it remains fit for purpose and a good size for a medium sized troop of baboons. I would estimate it has a minimum of 15-20 years left in it before any drastic overhaul is needed.

Phase 3: Tunnels:

Phase out of Serval exhibit
Construction of Meerkat exhibit

There’s no doubt visitors are underwhelmed by the gesture of tunnels that accompany the meerkat exhibit within the African aviary. They also cater poorly to the large volume of foot traffic through this area. Parents and older children will recall the extensive network of tunnels that ran underground the old meerkat complex (1991-2017), which featured three exhibits and an indoor sun room. It was useful for managing multiple groupings of meerkats and was a popular attraction with the general public.

The Serval exhibit is poorly suited for the species (the biggest design flaw is that visitors look down on the cat). Within this area and the surrounding boardwalk, there’s the opportunity to build a decent sized meerkat exhibit, with an accompanying network of tunnels. This exhibit would house a breeding group, with the exhibit in the aviary (and the porcupine exhibit if required) housing non-breeding groups.

————————————

The above plan maintains the geographical zones Auckland Zoo has worked hard to establish - with baboons and meerkats connected to the African precinct; and penguins remaining part of the New Zealand precinct.

 

[Jambo]

Future Developments - Post 2/2 (Speculation)

In considering how the idea above would pan out, I think it’s important to consider which species pair well with play areas. The obvious answer is meerkats (tunnels), baboons (climbing) and penguins (fountains).

With this in mind, this is what I envisage (please note this is speculation):

————————————

Phase 1: Fountains:

Demolition of the Subantarctic fur seal exhibit
Retention of the Little blue penguin exhibit

The rationale behind phasing out pinnipeds (the infrastructure being at the end of its working life) hasn’t changed, so I struggle to see this exhibit being renewed. It represents a reasonably large space to build fountains for kids to run through and a water based playground where kids alter the pathway of water along a channel.

Adjacent to this would be the existing Little blue penguin exhibit, with a possibility it could be expanded. The have recently acquired two new penguins, suggesting long term interest in sustaining a colony of this species.

Phase 2: Climbing:

Demolition of the Cheetah exhibit
Retention of the Hamadryas baboon exhibit

It seems unlikely Cheetah have a future at Auckland Zoo. Their exhibit is 20 years old and looks cramped by today’s standards. I could see a climbing based playground being built in this space, which is adjacent to the baboon exhibit.

The baboon exhibit is extremely popular with the general public and entirely suitable for this species. Two and a half decades after it was constructed, it remains fit for purpose and a good size for a medium sized troop of baboons. I would estimate it has a minimum of 15-20 years left in it before any drastic overhaul is needed.

Phase 3: Tunnels:

Phase out of Serval exhibit
Construction of Meerkat exhibit

There’s no doubt visitors are underwhelmed by the gesture of tunnels that accompany the meerkat exhibit within the African aviary. They also cater poorly to the large volume of foot traffic through this area. Parents and older children will recall the extensive network of tunnels that ran underground the old meerkat complex (1991-2017), which featured three exhibits and an indoor sun room. It was useful for managing multiple groupings of meerkats and was a popular attraction with the general public.

The Serval exhibit is poorly suited for the species (the biggest design flaw is that visitors look down on the cat). Within this area and the surrounding boardwalk, there’s the opportunity to build a decent sized meerkat exhibit, with an accompanying network of tunnels. This exhibit would house a breeding group, with the exhibit in the aviary (and the porcupine exhibit if required) housing non-breeding groups.

————————————

The above plan maintains the geographical zones Auckland Zoo has worked hard to establish - with baboons and meerkats connected to the African precinct; and penguins remaining part of the New Zealand precinct.

A lot of zoo's worldwide nowadays have a 'ropes course' in the zoo - and I feel like this is something worth investing in if Auckland are looking at creating more interactive spaces for children.

Auckland actually already has one - albeit on a smaller scale in the Rainforest precinct, but imo they could build this on a much larger scale on the site of the former Saimang enclosure.

A large multi level playground would be beneficial in this case - and this could potentially be the 'climbing part of the zoo', instead of opposite the baboons.

If the Cheetahs do end up departing the zoo's collection, I'd prefer to see the Servals retained rather than having two of the zoo's four cat species being phased out. In my scenario, the Servals could replace the Cheetah in their current enclosure.

 

[ApeLadyNZ]

A lot of zoo's worldwide nowadays have a 'ropes course' in the zoo - and I feel like this is something worth investing in if Auckland are looking at creating more interactive spaces for children.

Auckland actually already has one - albeit on a smaller scale in the Rainforest precinct, but imo they could build this on a much larger scale on the site of the former Saimang enclosure.

A large multi level playground would be beneficial in this case - and this could potentially be the 'climbing part of the zoo', instead of opposite the baboons.

If the Cheetahs do end up departing the zoo's collection, I'd prefer to see the Servals retained rather than having two of the zoo's four cat species being phased out. In my scenario, the Servals could replace the Cheetah in their current enclosure.

@Zoofan15 - thank you for the comprehensive updat, it is very encouraging to see that the master plan and nature playground ideas have been revised. I also hope they reconsider phasing out some of the animal species and retain the baboons, in particular, due to not only their popularity but the fact they are the zoo's only breeding group of African primates.

@Jambo - all very good points! If cheetah and serval do end up being phased out, I hope that Auckland Zoo would consider replacing them with another felid species, perhaps caracal.

 

[Zoofan15]

A lot of zoo's worldwide nowadays have a 'ropes course' in the zoo - and I feel like this is something worth investing in if Auckland are looking at creating more interactive spaces for children.

Auckland actually already has one - albeit on a smaller scale in the Rainforest precinct, but imo they could build this on a much larger scale on the site of the former Saimang enclosure.

A large multi level playground would be beneficial in this case - and this could potentially be the 'climbing part of the zoo', instead of opposite the baboons.

If the Cheetahs do end up departing the zoo's collection, I'd prefer to see the Servals retained rather than having two of the zoo's four cat species being phased out. In my scenario, the Servals could replace the Cheetah in their current enclosure.

@Zoofan15 - thank you for the comprehensive updat, it is very encouraging to see that the master plan and nature playground ideas have been revised. I also hope they reconsider phasing out some of the animal species and retain the baboons, in particular, due to not only their popularity but the fact they are the zoo's only breeding group of African primates.

@Jambo - all very good points! If cheetah and serval do end up being phased out, I hope that Auckland Zoo would consider replacing them with another felid species, perhaps caracal.

Nobody was using it when I visited, but Butterfly Creek (Auckland based competitor of Auckland Zoo) has a high ropes course, so they might consider something like this. Like you say, they’ve proved popular at overseas zoo.

The Cheetah exhibit could certainly be subdivided into two to house a small felid species. As @ApeLadyNZ suggests, Caracal are also an option. The regional breeding programme for Caracal seems to be flourishing compared to Serval, who have had fewer births in recent years and multiple holders phasing out.

 

[Zoofan15]

Future Developments - Discussion

While walking around Auckland Zoo, @Swanson02 and I discussed ideas for the future development of the zoo. I will summarise our shared thoughts here, acknowledging some have already been proposed on here by both ourselves and others:

The second ape exhibit is wasted on a non-breeding pair of Siamang. With the installation of ropes for brachiation, the old tiger exhibit (2006-2019) would provide ample space for this pair, while allowing them to remain part of the South East Asian precinct. The second exhibit could then be used to further expand the zoo’s Bornean orangutan colony. I note there have been attempts to integrate the two species, but the male Siamang has proved antagonistic during introductions, preventing a successful integration from being achieved. In the meantime, Charlie needs to breed ASAP (given his age) with Melur and Daya. He’s the world’s second most genetically valuable male Bornean orangutan in captivity, and it’d be a great shame to lose this chance to secure two more infants from him.

The Sumatran tiger complex is fantastic. Both @Swanson02 and myself were reminded of London Zoo’s exhibit, which was no doubt an inspiration in the design (with the ape exhibits similarly inspired by zoos overseas). Sumatran tiger cub Cahya is 18 months old, but remains one of the zoo’s biggest stars. The panoramic viewing shelter was crammed with visitors, many of which were referring to the tigers by name. Only the Bornean orangutan colony rival their popularity.

The Hamadryas baboon exhibit is in excellent condition and is of ample size for a troop of at least 15 baboons. The juvenile male baboon (Jabari) was running in all directions and drawing a crowd as he always does. The tigers and orangutans may be the stars of the zoo, but the baboons are easily the third most engaging exhibit. The zoo would be mad to phase this species out.

Like the Hamadryas baboon exhibit, the Serval exhibit has aged well and is an attractive exhibit overall. The Serval is rarely seen and since a phase out is planned, Caracal would be a good replacement, especially considering renewed regional support. An additional opportunity to expand holdings comes via the phase out of Cheetah. Their exhibit is considered cramped by modern standards; but subdivided, would be ideal for a pair of Caracal exhibits.

The old Siamang exhibit is a sizeable area of land available for redevelopment. @Swanson02 proposed tapir, which I hope (albeit import restrictions requiring addressing) will be given consideration given how this species is making a comeback in Australian zoos. The spider monkeys and squirrel monkey exhibits are large, attractive and naturalistic exhibits; but with each housing non-breeding troops of females (each in the single digits), they lack impact. Brazilian tapir can cohabit with both species and so the old Siamang exhibit could also be used to accomodate surplus from a breeding troop of either spider monkeys or squirrel monkeys.

Further expansion of the Savannah is unnecessary. The herd dwelling ungulates congregate together, so the outcome will be multiple view points where the visitors complain they can’t see anything. The waterhole in the rhino exhibit (old Common hippopotamus pool) is already wasted space not even the Waterbuck use. They’d have been better off working to import Pygmy hippopotamus (requires an Import Health Standard), which is arguably still an option for this area.

If expansion of the Savannah must be undertaken, then it should be done with the intention of bringing in at least a couple of additional species. It would be an opportunity to continue with Waterbuck long term (which appear to be on the track to being phased out) and potentially import an additional antelope species e.g. Eland.

@Swanson02 thought Spotted hyena could be a good addition to the zoo’s collection and I agree, perhaps combined with a spacious new lion exhibit on the site of the elephant complex. The exisiting lion exhibit (which is no longer considered suitable for a breeding pride) would make an excellent exhibit for a non-breeding pack of African wild dog.

The zoo has sufficient play spaces and definitely doesn’t need a playground. The latest information is that the zoo plans to build play spaces interwoven with animal exhibits. I’ve discussed in Post #183 of this thread some ideas I have of how this could work.

The Asian small-clawed otter exhibit is under-utilised by two males. It would be nice to see the zoo return to holding a breeding group, which would make better use of the exhibit. Throughout the 2000’s, Auckland Zoo housed multiple groups of otters; and I note the exhibit adjacent to the old tiger exhibit is intact (albeit screened off). On that note, it’d be nice to see both this exhibit and the old bear pit (which is perfectly functional and home to a male red panda) return to public view.

Nearly a quarter of a century on from when it opened, the seal exhibit remains an attractive exhibit, albeit under-utilised by an elderly male fur seal. It would arguably be worth investing in renewing the filtration infrastructure to extend the lifespan of this exhibit for another 20-25 years and acquire more pinnipeds. They’re a highlight for many zoo visitors and greatly enhance the New Zealand precinct, which is otherwise soley reliant on birds and reptiles. The adjacent penguin pool is similarly an excellent exhibit, but fails to reach its potential with a small flock of rescue birds that refuse to set foot in the water. Working to build up numbers of captive bred birds within the colony may enhance the exhibit.

@Swanson02 said he enjoyed Auckland Zoo more than Taronga Zoo and Melbourne Zoo; and as a first time visitor, was really impressed. He especially liked the creek (Motions Creek) that runs through the zoo and the historic bridges. A Tiger by the Tail details the aspirations of the founders of Auckland Zoo to establish a zoo with an attractive park like setting and this has certainly been achieved. @Swanson02 was also highly impressed with the zoo’s aviaries, noting them to be the best he’d seen at any zoo.

Historical features e.g. the old elephant house, old giraffe house, old bear pit etc. are an asset to the zoo and should be preserved going into the future; especially since many other historic exhibits have been lost over the past decade.

 

[Jambo]

Great to hear both of your thoughts on the zoo.

The second ape exhibit is wasted on a non-breeding pair of Siamang. With the installation of ropes for brachiation, the old tiger exhibit (2006-2019) would provide ample space for this pair, while allowing them to remain part of the South East Asian precinct. The second exhibit could then be used to further expand the zoo’s Bornean orangutan colony. I note there have been attempts to integrate the two species, but the male Siamang has proved antagonistic during introductions, preventing a successful integration from being achieved. In the meantime, Charlie needs to breed ASAP (given his age) with Melur and Daya. He’s the world’s second most genetically valuable male Bornean orangutan in captivity, and it’d be a great shame to lose this chance to secure two more infants from him.

Melbourne had a similar problem re. introducing their Saimangs to the Orangutans. And it was the same problem - being with the Saimangs provoking the Orangutans, which wouldn't end too well for them. Them taking up such a spacious enclosure, which could be better utilised by a secondary breeding group of orangutans would be the best way forward. The former Tiger exhibit is more than large enough for a non breeding pair anyway - and would make for interesting viewing if the vegetation was cleared and ropes were installed.

I'd imagine the goal is for Charlie to breed both girls around the same time. Two infants at the same time would be great for the zoo, and especially for their social development. Bahmi's now three so I'd hope that Auckland will be targeting the next few years to take both females off contraception (obviously the sooner the better).

The Hamadryas baboon exhibit is in excellent condition and is of ample size for a troop of at least 15 baboons. The juvenile male baboon (Jabari) was running in all directions and drawing a crowd as he always does. The tigers and orangutans may be the stars of the zoo, but the baboons are easily the third most engaging exhibit. The zoo would be mad to phase this species out.

I would be nice to see Auckland import a few more females. Darling Downs and Sydney have breed quite frequently as of late and both facilities could afford to offload at least a pair of females to Auckland.

Like the Hamadryas baboon exhibit, the Serval exhibit has aged well and is an attractive exhibit overall. The Serval is rarely seen and since a phase out is planned, Caracal would be a good replacement, especially considering renewed regional support. An additional opportunity to expand holdings comes via the phase out of Cheetah. Their exhibit is considered cramped by modern standards; but subdivided, would be ideal for a pair of Caracal exhibits.

It's interesting you say that re. the Serval. Although I don't visit Auckland as much as you do, I reckon I've seen the Serval almost every time during my most recent visits (in the last decade or so). Most recently, last year I was lucky enough to catch it active and pacing the back of the exhibit. Usually though it likes to sit at the far back of the exhibit, or in the vegetation, so I do get why it may be hard to spot at times. If the Serval do get phased out; this enclosure would make a decent Porcupine enclosure.

The old Siamang exhibit is a sizeable area of land available for redevelopment. @Swanson02 proposed tapir, which I hope (albeit import restrictions requiring addressing) will be given consideration given how this species is making a comeback in Australian zoos. The spider monkeys and squirrel monkey exhibits are large, attractive and naturalistic exhibits; but with each housing non-breeding troops of females (each in the single digits), they lack impact. Brazilian tapir can cohabit with both species and so the old Siamang exhibit could also be used to accomodate surplus from a breeding troop of either spider monkeys or squirrel monkeys.

Unfortunately the Tapir comeback has reached roadblocks, and I'd imagine NZ would be in a similar situation in the event they decided to import too. In saying that, a single tapir would make great use of the Squirrel Monkey enclosure.

I'd much prefer to see that space be converted into an aviary for the zoo's Macaws. They deserve a nice on display enclosure. Or at the very least, build the children's playground here..

Further expansion of the Savannah is unnecessary. The herd dwelling ungulates congregate together, so the outcome will be multiple view points where the visitors complain they can’t see anything. The waterhole in the rhino exhibit (old Common hippopotamus pool) is already wasted space not even the Waterbuck use. They’d have been better off working to import Pygmy hippopotamus (requires an Import Health Standard), which is arguably still an option for this area.

If not Pygmy Hippos, I'd be a fan of Auckland netting the whole enclosure and utilising it as an extended Flamingo aviary to house a larger breeding group of Flamingos.

@Swanson02 thought Spotted hyena could be a good addition to the zoo’s collection and I agree, perhaps combined with a spacious new lion exhibit on the site of the elephant complex. The exisiting lion exhibit (which is no longer considered suitable for a breeding pride) would make an excellent exhibit for a non-breeding pack of African wild dog.

Spotted Hyena would a great inclusion to Auckland, especially as Hamilton apparently has interest in them too. The current Lion enclosure would be suitable - that is if the Lions do get an extended habitat. Or even the current Cheetah enclosure for a bachelor male/pair, although I do acknowledge it isn't the biggest space wise.

 

[Zoofan15]

I'd imagine the goal is for Charlie to breed both girls around the same time. Two infants at the same time would be great for the zoo, and especially for their social development. Bahmi's now three so I'd hope that Auckland will be targeting the next few years to take both females off contraception (obviously the sooner the better).

I agree. Bahmi is now three years old, so I anticipate Melur would be able to conceive within the next year or so (potentially looking at a birth interval of around five years). Her breeding ahead of Daya would teach Bahmi some manners around newborns; but having the infants born the same year at least would be great for the colony.

I would be nice to see Auckland import a few more females. Darling Downs and Sydney have breed quite frequently as of late and both facilities could afford to offload at least a pair of females to Auckland.

I’m hopeful Auckland Zoo will import a couple of female Hamadryas baboon in the near future. They have 2.2 elderly baboon, whose inevitable passing will leave 1.4 adults and the juvenile male Jabari coming through. He’s three years old and will begin to seek to establish his own harem in the next 3-5 years. Loading his father up with two additional females should ensure he’s able to steal at least one, stabilising tensions in the troop.

Potentially Auckland could also look at swapping two of its younger females for 3-4 new females as their troop is all related.

Spotted Hyena would a great inclusion to Auckland, especially as Hamilton apparently has interest in them too. The current Lion enclosure would be suitable - that is if the Lions do get an extended habitat. Or even the current Cheetah enclosure for a bachelor male/pair, although I do acknowledge it isn't the biggest space wise.

Space wise, the lion exhibit would be perfect for a pair of Spotted hyena.

The elephant complex represents a large space, so a complex built to house a breeding pride of lions could be built here. I envisage something similar in size to Taronga’s current set up; but more innovative in design.

 

[ApeLadyNZ]

I agree. Bahmi is now three years old, so I anticipate Melur would be able to conceive within the next year or so (potentially looking at a birth interval of around five years). Her breeding ahead of Daya would teach Bahmi some manners around newborns; but having the infants born the same year at least would be great for the colony.


I’m hopeful Auckland Zoo will import a couple of female Hamadryas baboon in the near future. They have 2.2 elderly baboon, whose inevitable passing will leave 1.4 adults and the juvenile male Jabari coming through. He’s three years old and will begin to seek to establish his own harem in the next 3-5 years. Loading his father up with two additional females should ensure he’s able to steal at least one, stabilising tensions in the troop.

Potentially Auckland could also look at swapping two of its younger females for 3-4 new females as their troop is all related.


Space wise, the lion exhibit would be perfect for a pair of Spotted hyena.

The elephant complex represents a large space, so a complex built to house a breeding pride of lions could be built here. I envisage something similar in size to Taronga’s current set up; but more innovative in design.

All some very good points and ideas from everyone! Personally, re the rainforest/South American area, I would also be in favour of a parrot aviary. As I've mentioned before, Auckland already holds the birds, and they would be an attractive and engaging exhibit. The macaws in particular are spectacular to look at, and I believe there may be some talking birds among the parrots as well, which is always of interest to visitors (shown by the popularity of Australian cockatoo Captain!)

I would love to see the zoo acquire spotted hyena and/or caracal, which would be another massive drawcard for the zoo.

I am also in full agreement about the siamang integration not being able to proceed, and that the habitat is wasted on a non-breeding pair. I believe, according to volunteers, there were more attempts to introduce the two ape species via mesh behind the scenes, but Daya's taking a vehement dislike to male siamang Intan put a stop to these. Also, there is the fact that Bahmi is now a juvenile, more active and independent than before, and also has the possibility to clash with Intan.

It would be amazing to see infants from both Melur and Daya before too long - a trio of youngsters would probably be one of the biggest drawcards the zoo's ever had. Bahmi would still be of an age to engage in play with the new arrivals when they are sufficiently old and strong enough, as well as the infants being playmates for each other.

And yes, another antelope species, I think, would be beneficial to the savannah area. The nyala are an attractive species, but more variety would be very desirable indeed.

 

[Zoofan15]

All some very good points and ideas from everyone! Personally, re the rainforest/South American area, I would also be in favour of a parrot aviary. As I've mentioned before, Auckland already holds the birds, and they would be an attractive and engaging exhibit. The macaws in particular are spectacular to look at, and I believe there may be some talking birds among the parrots as well, which is always of interest to visitors (shown by the popularity of Australian cockatoo Captain!)

I would love to see the zoo acquire spotted hyena and/or caracal, which would be another massive drawcard for the zoo.

I am also in full agreement about the siamang integration not being able to proceed, and that the habitat is wasted on a non-breeding pair. I believe, according to volunteers, there were more attempts to introduce the two ape species via mesh behind the scenes, but Daya's taking a vehement dislike to male siamang Intan put a stop to these. Also, there is the fact that Bahmi is now a juvenile, more active and independent than before, and also has the possibility to clash with Intan.

It would be amazing to see infants from both Melur and Daya before too long - a trio of youngsters would probably be one of the biggest drawcards the zoo's ever had. Bahmi would still be of an age to engage in play with the new arrivals when they are sufficiently old and strong enough, as well as the infants being playmates for each other.

And yes, another antelope species, I think, would be beneficial to the savannah area. The nyala are an attractive species, but more variety would be very desirable indeed.

I miss the 1922 Aviary that was demolished a few years ago. Though it was dated, it was a decent size for the Blue and gold macaws (Chico and Blake) that used to inhabit it. They could both talk and Chico was especially vocal on my visits. They could certainly build a decent sized South American aviary where the old Siamang exhibit used to be, with birds complimenting the mammal and reptile heavy precinct.

Especially if Auckland Zoo was able to acquire a Pygmy hippopotamus (IHS required), then an Eastern bongo exhibit would compliment them nicely. This could be something to consider if they opt to build a Southern white rhinoceros exhibit on the site of the elephant complex (with Pygmy hippopotamus occupying the old Common hippopotamus exhibit; and Eastern bongo occupying what’s current the rhinoceros exhibit).

Caracal would be a good addition to the zoo. They’re more confident than other small cats such as Fishing cat and have strong regional support, with a birth in the last year and multiple Australian and New Zealand holders. If the zoo invest in any small cat, multiple exhibits are a must and there’s an opportunity to do this by subdividing the exisiting Cheetah exhibit upon their demise. The current Serval exhibit has limited BOH cages, but lends itself poorly to managing multiple groupings compared to the previous set up (up the top of the zoo).

 

[Zorro]

I miss the 1922 Aviary that was demolished a few years ago. Though it was dated, it was a decent size for the Blue and gold macaws (Chico and Blake) that used to inhabit it. They could both talk and Chico was especially vocal on my visits. They could certainly build a decent sized South American aviary where the old Siamang exhibit used to be, with birds complimenting the mammal and reptile heavy precinct.

Especially if Auckland Zoo was able to acquire a Pygmy hippopotamus (IHS required), then an Eastern bongo exhibit would compliment them nicely. This could be something to consider if they opt to build a Southern white rhinoceros exhibit on the site of the elephant complex (with Pygmy hippopotamus occupying the old Common hippopotamus exhibit; and Eastern bongo occupying what’s current the rhinoceros exhibit).

Caracal would be a good addition to the zoo. They’re more confident than other small cats such as Fishing cat and have strong regional support, with a birth in the last year and multiple Australian and New Zealand holders. If the zoo invest in any small cat, multiple exhibits are a must and there’s an opportunity to do this by subdividing the exisiting Cheetah exhibit upon their demise. The current Serval exhibit has limited BOH cages, but lends itself poorly to managing multiple groupings compared to the previous set up (up the top of the zoo).

I actually was surprised that Auckland has not added Pygmy Hippos to it collection and be part of a regional breeding program

 

[ApeLadyNZ]

I miss the 1922 Aviary that was demolished a few years ago. Though it was dated, it was a decent size for the Blue and gold macaws (Chico and Blake) that used to inhabit it. They could both talk and Chico was especially vocal on my visits. They could certainly build a decent sized South American aviary where the old Siamang exhibit used to be, with birds complimenting the mammal and reptile heavy precinct.

Especially if Auckland Zoo was able to acquire a Pygmy hippopotamus (IHS required), then an Eastern bongo exhibit would compliment them nicely. This could be something to consider if they opt to build a Southern white rhinoceros exhibit on the site of the elephant complex (with Pygmy hippopotamus occupying the old Common hippopotamus exhibit; and Eastern bongo occupying what’s current the rhinoceros exhibit).

Caracal would be a good addition to the zoo. They’re more confident than other small cats such as Fishing cat and have strong regional support, with a birth in the last year and multiple Australian and New Zealand holders. If the zoo invest in any small cat, multiple exhibits are a must and there’s an opportunity to do this by subdividing the exisiting Cheetah exhibit upon their demise. The current Serval exhibit has limited BOH cages, but lends itself poorly to managing multiple groupings compared to the previous set up (up the top of the zoo).

I recall reading somewhere - perhaps on here - that there was a long-term plan for pygmy hippopotamus, but there were unforeseen difficulties, perhaps COVID was also a factor as in the cancellation of several other imports. Eastern bongo would also have been a spectacular edition to the zoo, and I could have seen it happening if the old elephant exhibit was renovated for rhino and the current rhino exhibit repurposed for hippopotamus/bongo.

Caracal would certainly be a drawcard, not only as they're a novelty, but felids are always popular among zoo visitors.

 

[Zoofan15]

I actually was surprised that Auckland has not added Pygmy Hippos to it collection and be part of a regional breeding program

Same here. There was never a better opportunity than when Faith and Fudge died in 2016. Their exhibit was arguably a little small for Common hippopotamus by today’s standards, but would have been of ample size for a Pygmy hippopotamus.

Despite having years to do so, New Zealand zoos have never pushed for an IHS and with the castration of Fudge at Auckland Zoo coinciding with the demise of his father that same year, the phase out of hippopotamus was inevitable.

Another idea that’s been proposed on here for the space vacated for the elephant complex was a Common hippopotamus complex, with an adjoining Greater flamingo exhibit. This would have been phenomenal. It was inspired by the 2014 masterplan, which promised a flamingo avairy and underwater viewing for the hippopotamus.

 

[Zoofan15]

I recall reading somewhere - perhaps on here - that there was a long-term plan for pygmy hippopotamus, but there were unforeseen difficulties, perhaps COVID was also a factor as in the cancellation of several other imports. Eastern bongo would also have been a spectacular edition to the zoo, and I could have seen it happening if the old elephant exhibit was renovated for rhino and the current rhino exhibit repurposed for hippopotamus/bongo.

Caracal would certainly be a drawcard, not only as they're a novelty, but felids are always popular among zoo visitors.

When Faith and Fudge died, the zoo stated they had plans to acquire more hippopotami; but I suspected this was merely a throwaway comment, as a decade on, there’s been zero progress in sourcing any and New Zealand still lacks the required IHS to do so.

With the apparent collapse of the Australian Rhino Project (which would have seen 35 white rhinos imported into Australasia), it’ll be interesting to see what effect this has on Auckland’s plans to expand their rhino holdings. New Zealand is set to receive an import via Monarto of a rhino from Europe, which I predict is a bull for Orana Wildlife Park. If so, that could open up options for Auckland’s young females to go to Orana (rather than Australia), as Orana only have one viable cow.

Should Zambezi and Jamila’s fourth calf be a male, then it wouldn’t surprise me to see Zambezi be retired into a bachelor herd of 3.0 with his two sons. As @Zorro has mentioned before, bachelor herds rarely work long term; but the inevitable passing of 33 year old Zambezi would probably coincide with his sons hitting young adulthood, which is when bachelor herds tend to fall apart (usually proving successful during the juvenile/adolescent years).

 

[Jambo]

Should Zambezi and Jamila’s fourth calf be a male, then it wouldn’t surprise me to see Zambezi be retired into a bachelor herd of 3.0 with his two sons. As @Zorro has mentioned before, bachelor herds rarely work long term; but the inevitable passing of 33 year old Zambezi would probably coincide with his sons hitting young adulthood, which is when bachelor herds tend to fall apart (usually proving successful during the juvenile/adolescent years).

Rhino bachelor herds can be successful, I wouldn't go so far to say they rarely work. The difficulty is usually with introducing unrelated, adult bulls are not surprisingly, going to clash and fight. The best method that has been recognised is to introduce the bulls young - which puts them in a better position to tolerate each other as they age.

Therefore in the wild, it's occasionally bulls of similar age from the same natal herds who move off in their own small bachelor herds. Dubbo currently has a pair of brothers who still cohabit together; they were from the same natal herd, however they were only introduced as juveniles at Dubbo.

 

[Zoofan15]

Rhino bachelor herds can be successful, I wouldn't go so far to say they rarely work. The difficulty is usually with introducing unrelated, adult bulls are not surprisingly, going to clash and fight. The best method that has been recognised is to introduce the bulls young - which puts them in a better position to tolerate each other as they age.

Therefore in the wild, it's occasionally bulls of similar age from the same natal herds who move off in their own small bachelor herds. Dubbo currently has a pair of brothers who still cohabit together; they were from the same natal herd, however they were only introduced as juveniles at Dubbo.

Bachelor herds usually work until there’s more than one mature bull in the herd. Zambezi (1992) formed a bachelor herd with his sons Inkosi (2002) and Mtoto (2004) in 2007, but by the time Mtoto was exported to Australia, they herd had broken down and were living separately. The same had been observed in Australian bachelor herds such as Canberra’s, which were successful while their bulls were juveniles.

With Dubbo’s brothers (sons of Caballe) now in young adulthood, I’m doubtful we’ll see them housed together for much longer; especially since there’s cows on site to fuel tensions between the bulls.

Bachelor herds are useful for temporary placement of juvenile bulls. They’re unlikely to have the presence to exert dominance over cows in a breeding herd until around 10 years; yet by aged 3-5 years, their fathers (and sometimes the adult cows) want them out of the breeding herd. Going into a bachelor herd allows them to mature socially and makes efficient use of space.

 

[Jambo]

Bachelor herds usually work until there’s more than one mature bull in the herd. Zambezi (1992) formed a bachelor herd with his sons Inkosi (2002) and Mtoto (2004) in 2007, but by the time Mtoto was exported to Australia, they herd had broken down and were living separately. The same had been observed in Australian bachelor herds such as Canberra’s, which were successful while their bulls were juveniles.

With Dubbo’s brothers (sons of Caballe) now in young adulthood, I’m doubtful we’ll see them housed together for much longer; especially since there’s cows on site to fuel tensions between the bulls.

Bachelor herds are useful for temporary placement of juvenile bulls. They’re unlikely to have the presence to exert dominance over cows in a breeding herd until around 10 years; yet by aged 3-5 years, their fathers (and sometimes the adult cows) want them out of the breeding herd. Going into a bachelor herd allows them to mature socially and makes efficient use of space.

There are a few facilities in North America and Europe who've been successful with holding bachelor groups long term (or at least with adult bulls), although most have found success with holding similar aged bulls who were paired together prior to adulthood. So it's ultimately a possibility, to at least attempt, but sometimes personalities can get in the way with this (as is the case with any species).

Dubbo's males are kept in the mixed savannah; so a fair distance away from the main breeding herd. That might help them cohabit together in the long term.

 

[Zoofan15]

Replacement for the Elephants

Goodbye dinosaurs:

Auckland Zoo’s animatronic dinosaur exhibit closes October 31, after being open for the past six months.

Next month marks a year since Burma (Auckland Zoo’s last elephant) was exported to Australia and while many of us have been wondering for years what will be replacing the elephants; I suspect even the general public will soon be asking what will be replacing the dinosaurs.

I can realistically see this going one of four ways:

1. A World Class Precinct

Auckland Zoo have already wowed us with their world class South East Asian precinct. How incredible would it be to see them follow up with a Congo precinct (okapi/gorillas) or African predator precinct (lions/hyenas)?

2. Expanded Exhibits:

I’ll acknowledge the overlap here with the first idea considering lions are already held at the zoo; but I’m thinking something less dramatic such an expanded savannah (giraffe/rhinos/nyala); a walkthrough lemur exhibit; or a flamingo aviary. As @Zorro has mentioned in the past, I hope an expanded savannah would include at least one additional antelope species.

3. Another Temporary Exhibition:

I really hope the zoo don’t go this route. The dinosaurs were no doubt a hit with pre-schoolers and indeed the zoo reported record attendance in the opening month; but I’d be interested to know if that interest was sustained across the six month duration of the exhibition. It’d come as no surprise if visitor numbers support my assumption that the novelty has since worn off.

4. Leisure Amenities:

This would be the most disappointing outcome of all. I’m thinking a high ropes course or a playground. The latest information I received was that the nature playground would be intertwined with animals exhibits across other areas of the zoo (pinnipeds, penguins, baboon, serval, cheetah etc) and I suspect Butterfly Creek (which has a high ropes course) would have strong objections to Auckland Zoo constructing a high ropes, so that will hopefully discourage them from going this route. I’m not aware what agreements (if any) Auckland Zoo has with competing attractions; but overlaps thus far have been minimal.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, we can expect funding to have an influence on what the zoo decide to run with. To state the obvious, something on the scale of the South East Asian precinct would require an investment of tens of millions of dollars (the South East Asian precinct was completed for $62 million three years ago). If that funding isn’t there, then that will inevitably restrict their ambitions. Whether that takes the form of something more low key, or another temporary exhibition remains to be seen.

Hopefully Auckland Zoo will be making an announcement soon to provide some clarity on their future plans. A future development meeting was held earlier this year, so I’m hopeful they have something concrete in mind at this point.

 

[Zorro]

Replacement for the Elephants

Goodbye dinosaurs:

Auckland Zoo’s animatronic dinosaur exhibit closes October 31, after being open for the past six months.

Next month marks a year since Burma (Auckland Zoo’s last elephant) was exported to Australia and while many of us have been wondering for years what will be replacing the elephants; I suspect even the general public will soon be asking what will be replacing the dinosaurs.

I can realistically see this going one of four ways:

1. A World Class Precinct

Auckland Zoo have already wowed us with their world class South East Asian precinct. How incredible would it be to see them follow up with a Congo precinct (okapi/gorillas) or African predator precinct (lions/hyenas)?

2. Expanded Exhibits:

I’ll acknowledge the overlap here with the first idea considering lions are already held at the zoo; but I’m thinking something less dramatic such an expanded savannah (giraffe/rhinos/nyala); a walkthrough lemur exhibit; or a flamingo aviary. As @Zorro has mentioned in the past, I hope an expanded savannah would include at least one additional antelope species.

3. Another Temporary Exhibition:

I really hope the zoo don’t go this route. The dinosaurs were no doubt a hit with pre-schoolers and indeed the zoo reported record attendance in the opening month; but I’d be interested to know if that interest was sustained across the six month duration of the exhibition. It’d come as no surprise if visitor numbers support my assumption that the novelty has since worn off.

4. Leisure Amenities:

This would be the most disappointing outcome of all. I’m thinking a high ropes course or a playground. The latest information I received was that the nature playground would be intertwined with animals exhibits across other areas of the zoo (pinnipeds, penguins, baboon, serval, cheetah etc) and I suspect Butterfly Creek (which has a high ropes course) would have strong objections to Auckland Zoo constructing a high ropes, so that will hopefully discourage them from going this route. I’m not aware what agreements (if any) Auckland Zoo has with competing attractions; but overlaps thus far have been minimal.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, we can expect funding to have an influence on what the zoo decide to run with. To state the obvious, something on the scale of the South East Asian precinct would require an investment of tens of millions of dollars (the South East Asian precinct was completed for $62 million three years ago). If that funding isn’t there, then that will inevitably restrict their ambitions. Whether that takes the form of something more low key, or another temporary exhibition remains to be seen.

Hopefully Auckland Zoo will be making an announcement soon to provide some clarity on their future plans. A future development meeting was held earlier this year, so I’m hopeful they have something concrete in mind at this point.

My view is that because Auckland zoo set the bar so high with its outstanding South East Asian precinct anything less than the standard set for this would be disappointing, Hopefully whatever they decide to construct is just as good!