Things that could make Paignton better

[TriUK]

If they continue with the Savanah idea, I think they would do better exchanging the mountain zebra for a small group of common zebra-making a better display and possibly are better/easier mixers too. They do need something to fill the Lechwe paddock too- problem is the steep hilly paddocks there don't make for great hoofed stock exhibits but another antelope species would still be the most obvious choice- but no animal/mammal movements allowed at present due to the TB restrictions..

I've always thought that Lechwe field would make a great Gelada & Ibex exhibit, much like Edinburgh's hill. Alternatively, the Sitatunga seem to do well on the hill at Exmoor? Or, move the Hartmanns over to the Lechwe field and put some common zebras and Mountain antelope (with the Sudanese Ostrich) to link to the new Savannah. The Breeding programmes still need to be a factor in decision making.

 

[Pertinax]

Alternatively, the Sitatunga seem to do well on the hill at Exmoor? .

Sitatunga is actually a marsh/water loving antelope. Obviously they can be kept on a hill but its far from natural for them. I wish more zoos that keep them would make an exhibit that allows them water to wade and even swim in. Chester's display board shows this behaviour but their paddock has no water either... Cricket St Thomas was one such place where they could be seen wading in the small river running through their paddock.

 

[Animallover1998]

I've always thought that Lechwe field would make a great Gelada & Ibex exhibit, much like Edinburgh's hill. Alternatively, the Sitatunga seem to do well on the hill at Exmoor? Or, move the Hartmanns over to the Lechwe field and put some common zebras and Mountain antelope (with the Sudanese Ostrich) to link to the new Savannah. The Breeding programmes still need to be a factor in decision making.

I actually just had an idea:

What if they were to move the Rheas (Greater or Darwin's, doesn't matter which species) onto the former Lechwe paddock and have them mixed with Vicunas or Guanacos? I know they wouldn't fit in with the Savannah theme but they do seem to prefer hilly habitats in zoos and wildlife parks around the world.