On my visit in the summer of 2010 there were golden-belled mangabeys, black mangabeys, Wolf’s guenons and an elderly black-and-white ruffed lemur in a series of black metal cages that were largely ignored by the public as visitors walked by to the nearby aquarium or reptile house. It is interesting that the zoo would still have these cages in operation, but then again I personally believe that probably 80% of this zoo's exhibits are subpar. There are a lot of grottoes, metal cages, or enclosures literally carved out of the limestone quarry that the zoo is located within. An impressive collection in poor habitats.
I think that's right, elefante. I grew up in San Antonio, and I've been hearing since I was little that the zoo was poorly funded. I heard that the Cameron Park Zoo in Waco got the money to get back on its feet, so to speak, by passing a county-wide bond, and it looks pretty good these days. I wonder if San Antonio Zoo couldn't try the same thing.
I think the caging is a good idea, but maybe if they were a bit bigger, taller and a bit more naturally decorated [not saying it's too small, but could be bigger]. I for one quite like caging on primate cages, especially if it's done well as it provides a good amount of climbing space [more climbing opportunities than a few poles and ropes]. I think I'd love to see something like Japanese knotweed woven through the roof of the cage though to provide a 'canopy' that would in turn provide a sense of security to these particular primates.
Is this the enclosure that housed the 1.2 Golden-bellied mangabeys. that recently arrived at Burgers Zoo? If so they are in for a huge surprise! It would be very interesting to read a study of their introduction and assimilation into the new enclosure!
