Hi All,
In 1930, when the moated Monkey Island was built adjacent to the modern-day Reptile House, it was one of the first exhibits of its type at the Zoo. It has endured, principally unchanged for over 80 years. The exhibit has housed numerous species over the years but has most consistently been home to Japanese Macaque. While we have made modifications to the space to accommodate macaques, the facility did not meet our standards for caring for this species. As a result, we made the decision to move away from the Japanese Macaque program and found our four remaining Japanese Macaques quality homes at other institutions.
Our plan moving forward is to expand the yard for our ever growing Galapagos Tortoises and build a beautiful habitat for an iconic American species – the Bald Eagle. We will be acquiring rehabilitated nonreleasable bald eagles and providing them with a great space to live. We’re excited to share this American symbol and environmental success with visitors as they arrive at the Zoo. The work will be progressing over the next eight weeks. You will quickly be able to see the habitat come to life (particularly as the Horticulture team begins to work their magic). In the Fall, we will either expand the existing Galapagos Tortoise holding or build a new holding building.
In the end, this is a win-win for the Zoo; 1) we supply much needed additional yard space and holding for our Galapagos Tortoises and provide our four Japanese macaques with an environmental upgrade at other zoos and 2) bring back an iconic American success story.
Dave Jenike
Chief Operating Officer
When talking to guests, please use the following talking point to help explain the project:
“We found a great opportunity to provide our four Japanese macaques with an environmental upgrade at other zoos. The island will be modified to provide a large space for our growing Galapagos tortoises and a large habitat for bald eagles.”
