Enhancing Visitor–Animal Interactions in the Modern Zoo: A Designer’s Perspective
Publication Type: |
Book Section |
Year of Publication: |
2024 |
Authors: |
Jon Coe |
Publication/Journal: |
Human-Animal Interactions in Zoos: Integrating Science and Practice |
Publisher: |
CABI GB |
Keywords: |
animal-visitor interaction, avi, habitat design |
Abstract:
The impact that zoos, animal sanctuaries and related facilities have on their audiences, supporters and critics is determined largely by the quality of design of their facilities, programmes and policies. There is growing interest in the scientific study of broader human–animal interaction and more specific animal–visitor interactions (AVIs) to evaluate zoo and related facility design outcomes. This chapter summarizes zoo design history, defines dominant contemporary styles, and suggests ways that design processes, methods and evaluations can directly improve AVIs and indirectly improve outcomes for a wider range of stakeholders ranging from animal caregivers to donors. Case studies provide specific examples of these strategies.