Melbourne Zoo Future of Melbourne Zoo 2023 (Speculation / Fantasy)

[Zoofan15]

I've always been a fan of sending the Giraffes and Zebras to Werribee. Werribee have the chance to hold a very large breeding group, and with the new Waterhole precinct soon opening, they have an opportunity to move their bachelor group there in favour of holding a breeding group on the Lower Savannah. Okapi and Bongo would be suitable replacements for them imo.

The Reptile House is indeed where the Cow exhibit is now; assumingly to tie in with the Butterfly House next door.

I honestly don't see Melbourne building a new Reptile House though. Their current one is a piece of history, and still serves its purpose very well.

Re. The Insect House - I think it's a very interesting idea, but I would like to see it replicated in Growing Wild. San Diego included Insect Buildings in their Childrens precinct, and it's worked very well as children are notably very fascinated with insects. Melbourne should really look into doing something similar.

Okapi and Eastern bongo would be great replacements for giraffe and zebra as Okapi need a shaded exhibit. They’re poorly suited to an open field and they’re a species that people will want to see up close (i.e. zoos rarely give them a large exhibit).

From what you’ve previously said about Melbourne’s troop and from what I’ve seen, the Hamadryas baboons are a popular and engaging exhibit and it’s disappointing to hear of plans to phase them out. I’ve always been impressed by Melbourne keeping a large troop in their city zoo; and hope at least Werribee commit to them.

 

[PaddyRickMFZ]

I've always been a fan of sending the Giraffes and Zebras to Werribee. Werribee have the chance to hold a very large breeding group, and with the new Waterhole precinct soon opening, they have an opportunity to move their bachelor group there in favour of holding a breeding group on the Lower Savannah. Okapi and Bongo would be suitable replacements for them imo.

The Reptile House is indeed where the Cow exhibit is now; assumingly to tie in with the Butterfly House next door.

I honestly don't see Melbourne building a new Reptile House though. Their current one is a piece of history, and still serves its purpose very well.

Re. The Insect House - I think it's a very interesting idea, but I would like to see it replicated in Growing Wild. San Diego included Insect Buildings in their Childrens precinct, and it's worked very well as children are notably very fascinated with insects. Melbourne should really look into doing something similar.

h


I would’ve thought the insect house should be an extension of the butterfly house. It’s is strange that this proposed master plan would decrease Melbournes collection, as basically all other zoos’ master plans propose an increase in their respective collections

 

[PaddyRickMFZ]

Okapi and Eastern bongo would be great replacements for giraffe and zebra as Okapi need a shaded exhibit. They’re poorly suited to an open field and they’re a species that people will want to see up close (i.e. zoos rarely give them a large exhibit).

From what you’ve previously said about Melbourne’s troop and from what I’ve seen, the Hamadryas baboons are a popular and engaging exhibit and it’s disappointing to hear of plans to phase them out. I’ve always been impressed by Melbourne keeping a large troop in their city zoo; and hope at least Werribee commit to them.

Luckily, as Jambo said, this is very old, so I wouldn’t read too much into it(especially if you want to keep your sanity)

 

[Zoofan15]

Tasmanian Devil already have an enclosure in the Australian precinct. And considering they're already at Healseville too, I don't see why Melbourne need three enclosures for them across two different precincts.

Unfortunately, space is indeed pretty full in the Australian precinct. A new childrens play area has been built and has taken up around a quarter of the whole precinct.

A thought on the Australian animals- Maybe once the Tapirs and Peccaries die, that top area might be used as an extension to the Australian area (being almost connected to the Australian precinct in a way). Dingoes would fit the current Tapir enclosure (with some modifications) and Tasmanian Devils would also be the best fit for the current Peccary enclosure. But that's just a thought. Not the best idea, but does open up space in the Carnivore precinct for new species.

Exactly, it’s a pointless double up. Same with the Slender-tailed meerkat exhibits. I don’t mind when it facilitates a breeding programme e.g. most zoos breeding have two Nepalese red panda exhibits, but there comes a point when double ups are just lazy planning.

I’d be happy with Dingo and Tasmanian devil exhibited alongside in the tapir/peccary exhibits if it’ll free up the Carnivores precinct. Bar the Snow leopards, I feel like a large pride of African lions would be more popular than the remaining carnivores combined.

 

[Jambo]

Okapi and Eastern bongo would be great replacements for giraffe and zebra as Okapi need a shaded exhibit. They’re poorly suited to an open field and they’re a species that people will want to see up close (i.e. zoos rarely give them a large exhibit).

From what you’ve previously said about Melbourne’s troop and from what I’ve seen, the Hamadryas baboons are a popular and engaging exhibit and it’s disappointing to hear of plans to phase them out. I’ve always been impressed by Melbourne keeping a large troop in their city zoo; and hope at least Werribee commit to them.

I remember being very disappointed with Melbourne's decision to phase out the Bongo and expand the Giraffe/Zebra enclosure that way. The current Giraffe enclosure would be perfect for Okapi. It's the perfect size, and only adequate shade would need to be implemented, which could be done. Bongo could then have the Zebra exhibit, of which is already suitable for them (maybe with some more shade structures too). The current back of house for the Zebras was also initially used for the Bongo too, and the current Zebra exhibit is about double the size of what the previous Bongo exhibit was too.

I wouldn't be surprised if Melbourne plan to continue with Hamadryads Baboon. As i've said, that plan is old, so may very well be back from when the Baboons were in the Baboon cages. As far as I know, Werribee have no plans for Baboons long term (at least none were in their masterplan).

 

[Zoofan15]

Luckily, as Jambo said, this is very old, so I wouldn’t read too much into it(especially if you want to keep your sanity)

Agreed. Plans change (as does management). Hopefully they’ve had time to review what’s working or not working at other zoos.

 

[Jambo]

h


I would’ve thought the insect house should be an extension of the butterfly house. It’s is strange that this proposed master plan would decrease Melbournes collection, as basically all other zoos’ master plans propose an increase in their respective collections

Being a city zoo, it makes sense. Most other city zoos are going in this direction as they're restricted space wise and are looking to provide bigger enclosures for the species they have, versus having more species in smaller enclosures.

 

[Zoofan15]

I remember being very disappointed with Melbourne's decision to phase out the Bongo and expand the Giraffe/Zebra enclosure that way. The current Giraffe enclosure would be perfect for Okapi. It's the perfect size, and only adequate shade would need to be implemented, which could be done. Bongo could then have the Zebra exhibit, of which is already suitable for them (maybe with some more shade structures too). The current back of house for the Zebras was also initially used for the Bongo too, and the current Zebra exhibit is about double the size of what the previous Bongo exhibit was too.

I wouldn't be surprised if Melbourne plan to continue with Hamadryads Baboon. As i've said, that plan is old, so may very well be back from when the Baboons were in the Baboon cages. As far as I know, Werribee have no plans for Baboons long term (at least none were in their masterplan).

That would be the perfect location for the Okapi in terms of size and location. I honestly don’t think visitors would miss the giraffes and zebra as much as management assume and those that did can easily visit them at Werribee. The facilities should strive to compliment each other (not replicate).

Its also worth noting that since then, Melbourne have bred a succession of Hamadryas baboon infants - indicating a long term commitment to the species.

 

[PaddyRickMFZ]

Being a city zoo, it makes sense. Most other city zoos are going in this direction as they're restricted space wise and are looking to provide bigger enclosures for the species they have, versus having more species in smaller enclosures.

I feel like Tarongas Congo precinct could be a good example of a city expanding their collection, as well as their Australian section. I actually believe an expanded Aus section would benefit Melbourne, but it’s not worth it if it’s at the expense of exotics

 

[Jambo]

Exactly, it’s a pointless double up. Same with the Slender-tailed meerkat exhibits. I don’t mind when it facilitates a breeding programme e.g. most zoos breeding have two Nepalese red panda exhibits, but there comes a point when double ups are just lazy planning.

I’d be happy with Dingo and Tasmanian devil exhibited alongside in the tapir/peccary exhibits if it’ll free up the Carnivores precinct. Bar the Snow leopards, I feel like a large pride of African lions would be more popular than the remaining carnivores combined.

An easy fix for me is to simply expand the Lion exhibit into the current Wild Dog exhibit (with an overhead pathway connecting the two enclosures). This would allow for a bigger pride to be held. At least a larger group of males, or females. It would be awesome to see Melbourne breed those guys again.

The next move is a no brainer. And that's to add Red Pandas in the current Coati precinct to create a small Nepalese precinct with the Snow Leopards next door.

Sumatran Tigers could then remain; but Sun Bears would be an option long term, once the region is able to acquire more.

And with the Tasmanian Devils gone, their exhibits could be repurposed for Komodo Dragon.

The precinct could then be split into different themed areas. Savannah (Lions), Mountains (Red Panda and Snow Leopard), Forest (Sun Bear/Sumatran Tiger and Komodo Dragon).

 

[Zoofan15]

I feel like Tarongas Congo precinct could be a good example of a city expanding their collection, as well as their Australian section. I actually believe an expanded Aus section would benefit Melbourne, but it’s not worth it if it’s at the expense of exotics

I’m really impressed with Taronga’s developments on the whole. Like all main zoos in the region, they’ve been subject to phase outs, but the precincts they’ve built have mostly been innovative and progressive (a few criticisms of Tiger Trek).

Melbourne (and Taronga) have historically led the way with exotics - breeding gorillas, elephants etc. Their international fame can for the most part be attributed to this.

 

[Jambo]

I feel like Tarongas Congo precinct could be a good example of a city expanding their collection, as well as their Australian section. I actually believe an expanded Aus section would benefit Melbourne, but it’s not worth it if it’s at the expense of exotics

A focus on the smaller natives would be the best way to go in my eyes. Australia has many very interesting smaller birds, reptiles and insects - all of which should be focused on if Melbourne wishes to expand their Australian precinct.

Kangaroos, Emu, Dingoes, Tasmanian Devils, Koalas and Wombats are six strong main species, and Melbourne should work around them when looking into acquiring new, smaller species.

I'd like to see Melbourne diversify into holding Tropical species. Tree Kangaroos, Echidnas, Platypus, Cassowary. Such a precinct is something they need, and would only make Melbourne's Forest precinct better and more improved (with Africa, Asia and Australia represented).

 

[PaddyRickMFZ]

An easy fix for me is to simply expand the Lion exhibit into the current Wild Dog exhibit (with an overhead pathway connecting the two enclosures). This would allow for a bigger pride to be held. At least a larger group of males, or females. It would be awesome to see Melbourne breed those guys again.

The next move is a no brainer. And that's to add Red Pandas in the current Coati precinct to create a small Nepalese precinct with the Snow Leopards next door.

Sumatran Tigers could then remain; but Sun Bears would be an option long term, once the region is able to acquire more.

And with the Tasmanian Devils gone, their exhibits could be repurposed for Komodo Dragon.

The precinct could then be split into different themed areas. Savannah (Lions), Mountains (Red Panda and Snow Leopard), Forest (Sun Bear/Sumatran Tiger and Komodo Dragon).

I agree with much of that, except for the Red Panda. I believe clouded leopard are the no brained replacement, with a surge of interest in the region and a species not already held at the zoo. If MZ wanted to go with the Himalayan theme(which I’m not saying is a bad idea), they would probably be obliged to implement Himalayan tahr(unlikely), as 2 species doesn’t qualify as a small precinct imo. Does anyone know if the lion exhibit can be expanded in any other direction, because I believe another species of canid would benefit from taking it up as residence(surplus spotted hyena from Werribee?) of course I floated striped hyena but even maned wolf is more likely than that

 

[Zoofan15]

Does anyone know if the lion exhibit can be expanded in any other direction, because I believe another species of canid would benefit from taking it up as residence(surplus spotted hyena from Werribee?) of course I floated striped hyena but even maned wolf is more likely than that

Not without demolishing other exhibits. Potentially the Spotted hyena could occupy the tiger exhibit, though I’m of the opinion hyena are better suited to open range zoos - where large packs can be formed. Arguably, the same could be said for African wild dog; with Maned wolf being the best fit imo.

 

[PaddyRickMFZ]

Not without demolishing other exhibits. Potentially the Spotted hyena could occupy the tiger exhibit, though I’m of the opinion hyena are better suited to open range zoos - where large packs can be formed. Arguably, the same could be said for African wild dog; with Maned wolf being the best fit imo.

Agreed. I thought that if WORZ needed somewhere to store the extra males temporarily then it would work, but would not be able to house more than about 5

 

[Zoofan15]

Agreed. I thought that if WORZ needed somewhere to store the extra males temporarily then it would work, but would not be able to house more than about 5

Males hyenas are less argumentative than the females surprisingly and can often join unrelated packs without issue. With regards to your idea, excess females could be housed at Melbourne Zoo though.

 

[PaddyRickMFZ]

Males hyenas are less argumentative than the females surprisingly and can often join unrelated packs without issue. With regards to your idea, excess females could be housed at Melbourne Zoo though.

I’m actually aware of the females being more dominant than the males, but I meant in terms of breeding(if they go down that route)

 

[Zoofan15]

I’m actually aware of the females being more dominant than the males, but I meant in terms of breeding(if they go down that route)

It’s not out of the question, though Monarto manage three packs on site without issue - so would expect Werribee could do the same.

 

[PaddyRickMFZ]

It’s not out of the question, though Monarto manage three packs on site without issue - so would expect Werribee could do the same.

Yeah. I know this isn’t the thread for it but Werribee have so much potential for their expansion. Bit of a shame that from what I gathered they will not be expanding their diversity(apart from hyenas and porcupines)

 

[Jambo]

I agree with much of that, except for the Red Panda. I believe clouded leopard are the no brained replacement, with a surge of interest in the region and a species not already held at the zoo. If MZ wanted to go with the Himalayan theme(which I’m not saying is a bad idea), they would probably be obliged to implement Himalayan tahr(unlikely), as 2 species doesn’t qualify as a small precinct imo. Does anyone know if the lion exhibit can be expanded in any other direction, because I believe another species of canid would benefit from taking it up as residence(surplus spotted hyena from Werribee?) of course I floated striped hyena but even maned wolf is more likely than that

I'd be surprised if Melbourne turned around and reacquired Clouded Leopard. They were phased out in favor of the Snow Leopards a decade ago. Clouded Leopard's aren't endangered, so don't really fit any of Zoo's Vics categories besides enabling.

As @Zoofan15 the Lion exhibit can't be expanded. The Dingo enclosure is above it, with the Snow Leopards to the left, and Wild Sea behind it. So the only feasible space for expansion imo, is north, where the current Dingo enclosure is.