Interactive experiences in a South American walk through aviary

[Miguel]

I'm looking for ideas on what kind of interactive / immersive experience would people like to experience in a South American walk through aviary?

 

[chrisbarela]

I'm currently working on an Amazon Gallery for an aquarium so I've given this a lot of thought recently. There's the usual rope bridges, caves and hollow trees to climb into or on. And even though those things have been done a lot you need to keep in mind children and how they view the experience (ultimately they play a large factor in return visits). Think about stroller moms and what their experience is like as well as elderly guests. Plan on lots of areas to sit and look at something pretty. And why make that seat a bench when it could be a log, stone, ruins, explorer crates, etc? Think about ways to display your animals so that the animals have the most interaction with your guests. Hidden warm spots bring iguanas closer to view. Don't display parrots on a branch in the middle of a pond - you just get bored parrots. Think about guest view points and where you put your plants. Dod you have room to grow a jungle or do you need to cheat it (I'm working in a very limited space once the paths and exhibits are put in so what little planting areas I have I am raising above guest eye level to give added height and immersion. Play with the other senses - scent areas (lots of spices come from the Amazon), Sound areas, things to touch. Play on the connection between the children who come to you jungle and children who live in the Amazon - what are their similarities and differences (pets, play, foods...). The "touch an Electric Eel" display is fun - a small electrical charge zaps guests when they put their fingers on metal buttons. Those are just some ideas. Feel free to contact me if you want to chat about it.