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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 Sleeping Baskets
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 Sleeping Baskets |
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| Method | Comprised of a 3 feet wide oval of iron supporting a basket of heavy duty mesh. Situated both indoors and outdoors. If provided with straw, chimps will build a day-nest. | |
| Species | Chimpanzee, Gorilla. | |
| Purpose | Provides a structure on which straw bedding may be built into a nest above the floor level. | |
| Pro | Allows chimps to sleep in the "canopy", and to gather bedding material and to an extent make their own nests. | |
| Con | Outdoor enclosure becomes strewn with straw brought from inside to put in outdoor nests. Nests are not durable enough. | |
| Improvements | Provide low level baskets, particularly for adult male gorillas, who are poor climbers. Use metal bands instead of mesh for strength. | |
| Comments | -- | |
| Frequency of Use | Constant. | |
| Ratings | Usefulness | 10 |
| Convenience | 10 | |
| Value For Money | 8 | |
| Range of Users | 8 | |
| Contributed By | Primate Section | |