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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
Nesting Rings
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.
Nesting Rings |
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| Method | Concrete ‘doughnuts’ 3 feet wide placed in breeding area 1½ feet apart. Rings are selected by mating pairs, who fill them with nest substrate (pebbles). Rings are provided 3-4 weeks before breeding starts. | |
| Species | Gentoo and Macaroni Penguins. | |
| Purpose | To define territorial area of nest, reducing inter-pair aggression and disputes, and to make monitoring and management easier. | |
| Pro | Raises nest above the ground, for better drainage, reduces aggression between pairs, and makes monitoring easier. | |
| Con | Birds do not always prefer the nesting location provided for them. | |
| Improvements | -- | |
| Comments | Macaroni Penguins were originally given nest rings in a sheltered area of their enclosure, but preferred to nest in the exposed, high region of the enclosure near the public area. When provided with rings in this location, they used them, so presumably felt insecure nesting in an area with restricted views of the surroundings. | |
| Frequency of Use | Constant During Breeding and Rearing Period. | |
| Ratings | Usefulness | 7 |
| Convenience | 8 | |
| Value For Money | 8 | |
| Range of Users | 7 | |
| Contributed By | Bird Section | |