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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
Mud Wallows
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.
Mud Wallows |
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| Method | Created either on purpose with a hose, or with the overflow from pools in poor drainage areas. The soil can be churned up and used as a wallow by the animals. | |
| Species | Rhino, Pygmy Hippo, Babirusa, Pere David’s Deer. | |
| Purpose | Allows the exhibition of natural behaviours. The coating of mud protects from sunburn and reduces the irritation of biting insects. | |
| Pro | -- | |
| Con | Becomes very messy in wet weather, making it difficult to work inside the enclosure. | |
| Improvements | Purpose built area for a wallow with a raised lip to contain the substrate and good drainage to dry out the area when required. | |
| Comments | Can become stagnant in summer, so should be dug over regularly. | |
| Frequency of Use | Constant. | |
| Ratings | Usefulness | 10 |
| Convenience | 8 | |
| Value For Money | 10 | |
| Range of Users | 10 | |
| Contributed By | Hoof-Stock Section | |