In humans it has been shown that where someone lives can improve or reduce our well-being. Can this be the same for animal as well? "

What is enclosure design?  

A zoo enclosure is a piece of land that is surrounded by a fence or wall and is used for displaying animals to the public,   

What makes a good zoo enclosure?  

Animal welfare is the main concern when designing an animal enclosure. A zoo needs to meet the animals' basic needs, a good zoo needs to be above and beyond with regards to meeting the needs and wants of the species.   

What are the basic needs of an animal; appropriate food, fresh water, proper exposure to light. Animals have enclosures that are clean, roomy enough—for flying or running, swimming or climbing. The enclosure should (as best as they can) include features that mimic conditions in the wild to encourage as many natural behaviours (species specific behaviour), as possible.  

Let us have a look at some of the RZSS enclosures as case studies.   
Edinburgh Zoo is over 100 years old, and it has many older enclosures that are being upgraded and adapted to improve welfare over time, the much younger Highland Wildlife Park has been a relatively blank canvas for enclosure design to take place in. 

To see new and novel zoo enclosure designs world wide, then have a look at the useful website section for ideas.

To learn more about RZSS enclosures try the activities below. 

To expand the activities below by clicking on the expand screen icon