Currently at the zoo. The entire length of Africa Rocks walk way is open minus one side outlet. Not all species on display. Missing numerous signs. Some enclosures are empty. I will report back late tonight as well as post pictures.
No need for the photos- Betsy has already posted many- thanks @betsy! I’d be interested to hear your thoughts though!
Updates and opinions from Betsy's photos: Leopard Exhibit: Looks similar to the Vervet exhibit, but is packed with lush vegetation all around the exhibit area. There is also a rather ugly training door that can be used for keeper demonstrations. Aviary: Smaller than the famous Scripps and Parker aviary's, but by certainly not bad. Give it some time for the plants to grow and it will looks far nicer. Additionally, there is a reptile exhibit among the birds home to girdle-tailed lizards, agama lizard and Mali spiny-tailed lizard. Baboon Exhibit: Wow! I'm shocked at just how well this turned out. The habitats are absolutely massive, filled with hills rocks trees and I believe all 3 combined have about 9 viewing areas. This includes massive overlooks, rock outcrops and small caves for younger kids. This in my opinion is the highlight of Africa Rocks, and I cannot wait to see this habitat in person in just one month! Edit: I was wrong, 13 viewing areas!
It's always good to post lots of pictures. Each photographer sees things differently. I didn't get to stay long but I was very impressed. Can't wait to go back on Monday and actually take photos of the animals.
Seemed like every time I turned there was another viewing area. It is going to be hard for summer interns to track an animal.
The small concession stand at the foot of the tower is complete and open for business. The elevator shafts were empty, without doors, making it possible to see from one side to the other. The grounds around the tower extending up to the entrance to the moving walk way are walled off, but they appear to be near completion . Numerous palms and other foliage have been planted in planters that appear to be designed to facilitate a queue to board. Most of the steel staircases that encircle the tower have been painted. Not all of them though. That’s all I can remember.
Has its purity been ascertained (in captive-rearing / croc farms frequently sadly the Siamese are mixed with saltwater genetics ...!? If they are pure-bred it is a definite improvement! (allthough I hope they stick with WAD in the Central Congo themed area).
I just figured out WAD means West African Dwarf (crocodile) in case anyone else was wondering along with me what it means. In my opinion, using abbreviations like this is not helpful.
