There is a delicate balance in the cycle of life on the earth. As the population has increased and man has depleted natural resources, both botanical and animal species have become extinct. Today, according to the endangered species program, which is a publication of the U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife, 1,500 animals and plants are listed as endangered species. Natural habitat zoos, like Cameron Park Zoo, are one way to exhibit some of these animals in their natural environment or an environment closely approximating their natural environment and protect them from extinction at the same time.
The new Asian Forest expansion is an example of how Cameron Park Zoo contributes to raising conservation awareness. These natural habitat exhibits enhanced with exceptional educational graphics and programs allow the public to experience first hand the importance of preserving our environmental resources, plus inspire them to take action.
The Asian Forest expansion will extend the current public viewing deck into a shaded walkway through the beautifully wooded land southwest of the existing Sumatran tiger display. Visitors will encounter an ancient Asian temple overgrown by a strangler fig tree. Orangutans and Komodo dragons will inhabit the temple. Specific components of the Asian Forest expansion include a spacious exhibit yard for the orangutans that is centered around a large stand of trees to provide natural foliage and shade. The yard is equipped with posts, ropes, and platforms to enable climbing and brachiating. The exhibit area is adjacent to a night house that allows keepers to safely attend to the care and husbandry needs of the animals. Because orangutans are critically endangered species, the American Zoo and Aquarium Association has set forth standards for the design of facilities that meet the optimum conditions for the animal's physical and psychological well being. Cameron Park Zoo has set a goal to exceed rather than simply meet these standards.
The housing and exhibit space designed for Komodo dragons is an indoor enclosure allowing these sensitive animals to be on display year round. These fascinating lizards have a remarkable natural history and will be an exciting addition
to this exotic expansion at Cameron Park Zoo.
A play area will allow children to let their imaginations run wild as they entertain themselves with Asian gongs and other culturally significant elements. Educational graphics will elaborate on the plight of the orangutan and other endangered species in Asia, as well as share valuable information about Asian cultures. These unique and colorful graphics compliment the Cameron Park Zoo Education Department's curriculum and are aesthetically pleasing and informative to all visitors.
Cameron Park Zoo is outstanding for its beautiful location and unique exhibits.
The Asian Forest expansion is another example of Cameron Park Zoo's commitment to excellence in zoo keeping and exhibit design.
