2004 Abstract:
Immersion exhibits have changed animal zoo exhibition using “nature” as the model for international best practice, yet even the most diverse zoo habitats don’t provide animals occupations and they soon become habituated with resulting decrease in animal activity and visual interest for the public. Activity-based design merges immersion displays with behavioural management to increase novelty and species-typical activities. At the Louisville, Kentucky (USA), Islands Exhibits orangutan, tapir, babirusa, siamang and Sumatran tiger rotate through four habitat areas on randomly determined schedule. Five years of behavioural observations show normal stress levels, increased activity and previously unseen natural behaviours.