The Dynamics of Kea Behaviour and Interpretive Signage on Visitor ...

2.1 Background information
2.1.1 Zoological park <strong>and</strong> <strong>Kea</strong> exhibit characteristics
<strong>The</strong> study occurred at two zoological parks within the greater Auckl<strong>and</strong> region <strong>of</strong> the North
Isl<strong>and</strong>, New Zeal<strong>and</strong>. Franklin Zoo <strong>and</strong> Wildlife Sanctuary is a privately owned rural zoo
covering over 3.5 hectares <strong>and</strong> is home to approximately 50 species (G. Strachan, pers.comm.
October 2007). Auckl<strong>and</strong> Zoo is an urban-bound, city council owned zoo spanning 18 hectares
<strong>and</strong> home to 179 species (A. Nelson, pers.comm, October 2007). Both <strong>of</strong> the zoos hold two <strong>Kea</strong>
on public display in outdoor enclosures; one <strong>of</strong> each sex, or both males, at Franklin <strong>and</strong>
Auckl<strong>and</strong> Zoo respectively. All <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Kea</strong> in the study were adults.
<strong>The</strong> dimension <strong>of</strong> the public <strong>Kea</strong> enclosure at Auckl<strong>and</strong> Zoo ranges between 3.9m to 5m wide
with a length <strong>of</strong> approximately 8m. In comparison, the enclosure at Franklin Zoo is
approximately 6.6m wide <strong>and</strong> between 4.7m to a further 2.25m long. Both <strong>of</strong> the enclosures
include the provision <strong>of</strong> natural exhibit features simulating parts <strong>of</strong> the lower altitude l<strong>and</strong>scape
<strong>of</strong> their natural environment such as rockwork, over hanging branches, logs, <strong>and</strong> a number <strong>of</strong>
native trees <strong>and</strong> shrubs. <strong>The</strong> Auckl<strong>and</strong> enclosure includes a water feature <strong>and</strong> both enclosures
were seen to include artificial food devices as a means <strong>of</strong> enrichment. <strong>The</strong> enclosure at
Auckl<strong>and</strong> Zoo is in visual competition with three other native exhibits, whereas the enclosure at
Franklin Zoo is in no direct visual competition with others. Both <strong>of</strong> the exhibits have obvious
chain link barriers between the visitor <strong>and</strong> the enclosure, preventing immersion into the exhibit
setting.
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