Trevor Hanson
New Member
I just got hired by a zoo to redo about a dozen enclosures and tanks. Where can I find a forum about how to create animal habitats?
Where can I find a thread about creating animal habitats?
- Thread starter Trevor Hanson
- Start date
I apologise if this comes across as confrontational, but to clarify, you’re looking for advice on the internet on how to do the job for which you’ve been hired?
I’d start by researching the species you’re designing exhibits for - including but not limited to their basic needs, enrichment, requirements for privacy etc. and basing your designs on what meets their needs.
Zooplantman
Well-Known Member
There are both general guidelines about how to approach animal enclosure design as well as specific requirements for each species. None of that is to be found in a forum or a book. Is this zoo AZA accredited?
Aardwolf
Well-Known Member
Since you said "tanks" I'm assuming that you're doing enclosures for fish, herps, or inverts, would that be correct? If you're looking for inspiration, there are tons of facebook groups that hobbyists use to trade tips and show of their designs. NOT Just Another Box (Log in or sign up to view) is one such example.
I'd agree with what the others have said, the key should be to research the species, what behaviors they display in the wild, and then figure out how to translate those to exhibits. When I've designed small habitats, I've spent a lot of time looking at photos (or, preferably, video footage) of the animal in the wild for inspiration.
I'd agree with what the others have said, the key should be to research the species, what behaviors they display in the wild, and then figure out how to translate those to exhibits. When I've designed small habitats, I've spent a lot of time looking at photos (or, preferably, video footage) of the animal in the wild for inspiration.
Trevor Hanson
New Member
I asked that question all wrong. I am well aware how to research the exact needs of an animal extensively and build a habitat based on the needs of that particular animal. What I am looking for is a forum where people who build zoo enclosures can share their work, network with each other for advise, compare methods, and just in general discuss everything and anything that involves the making of animal enclosures for zoos. I understand everyones concern and confusion, I was running late this morning when I posted that and tried to get a quick answer with a short and obviously not very well worded question.
Trevor Hanson
New Member
Your not coming across as confrontational but you did make me realize that the way I worded that so poorly did indeed make me sound like some amateur asking how to make enclosures. If you read my newest comment I explained what I was actually asking much better
Zooplantman
Well-Known Member
Those who design zoo enclosures and exhibits professionally do not share tips and ideas, obviously. They are competitors. But within the AZA there are a couple of message boards where zoo staff ask each other for tips on particular issues.You'd need to join AZA to access those groups.
The thing is, there isn't much that is generally applicable. A green iguana exhibit has nothing to do with a black bear exhibit which has nothing to do with an eagle exhibit. The enclosure materials are likely different, size of enclosure, height, climbing opportunities, "furniture," plantings, soils, drinkers, holding facilities: each are specific to the animal being designed for.
So.. if you are tasked with re-working a coyote enclosure then focus on that first and contact zoos with coyote exhibits. Then go from there.
This forum isn't really for keepers and employees, though there's a few of those around here; we're mostly people who really like going to zoos and seeing animals. There are some groups on facebook for keepers, including ones that are more specific to a family or genus, but most of them are private and won't come up in a search (to keep non-keepers out). I would suggest reaching out to people who care for the same, or similar, species you're working with and seeing if they know of any.
You can share those here just keep in mind as others have said we're enthusiasts and not all professionals. Some people here have seen enough to give ideas, opinions, and advice but I doubt you will find a true professional exhibit or habitat designer on here.
Zooplantman
Well-Known Member
Au contraire, there are a few of us
