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Environmental Husbandry Manual Click here for CONTENTS Page No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior written permission of the author - For contact details see about the author |
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Individual Methods for
Enclosure Design
Mesh Roof Covered in Straw
The methods outlined in this section relate to features of enclosure construction and layout which may be used to enhance the living conditions of animals, including the use of shelter areas, vegetation, viewing platforms and climbing structures.
Mesh Roof Covered in Straw |
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| Method | Mesh Roof Covered in Straw | |
| Species | Most Primates. | |
| Purpose | Provides a climbing frame and substrate base (straw) for food to be hidden on the roof to promote foraging. Lowers light levels to dappled, forest-like conditions. | |
| Pro | Can feed on roof without entering the enclosure. Makes frequent, irregular feeds easy, and encourages arboreal feeding postures. | |
| Con | -- | |
| Improvements | Vary food size, so some falls onto the floor while large pieces stay on the roof. Dominant males concentrate on fallen food, and others can get a fair share from the roof. | |
| Comments | Some monkeys, for example, Spectacled Langurs, White-faced Saki’s, Ring-tailed Lemurs will not take large items of food through the roof mesh. The public appreciate "animals working for food as in the wild". | |
| Frequency of Use | Constant. | |
| Ratings | Usefulness | 10 |
| Convenience | 10 | |
| Value For Money | 10 | |
| Range of Users | 8 | |
| Contributed By | Primate Section | |