We previously informed you about the renovation work and construction period for Shoebill enclosure West Garden Ueno Zoo, but this time we will explain the details of the work currently underway.

- "Some of Shoebill exhibits will no longer be accessible." (August 17, 2013)

This enclosure was originally used as a flamingo enclosure. We researched the athletic abilities, physiology, and ecology of Shoebill through literature and made several modifications, but when we actually started keeping them, we found that they were unexpectedly strong flyers and very active. Also, they are difficult birds to keep in the same space as multiple individuals, so each one is kept in a separate room adjacent to the free-range area.

The purpose of this construction work is to raise the height of the ceiling netting where it had become too low, and to replace the netting support poles that were bent by the heavy snow in January 2013.

With these renovations, we hope to take a step closer to creating an animal enclosure that is easier for visitors to see and safer for the birds. We apologize for any inconvenience and trouble this may cause for a little while longer, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Currently, there are some places where you can see them, and there, we rotate the five Shoebill so that you can view them in turn.

Photo: Construction scene

[Mayumi Yamagishi, Animal Care and Exhibition Staff, Ueno Zoo West Garden]

(September 13, 2013)