Britannica
Sources used in this answer
How did the San Diego Zoo build its large walk-through aviary over a natural canyon?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
Zoo
Two jaguars in a zoo.
The San Diego Zoo utilizes the natural topography of its location in Balboa Park, which is characterized by hills and canyons, to create its unique exhibits. Specifically, the zoo has successfully roofed over these natural canyons to construct large walk-through aviaries.
By spanning these existing landforms, the zoo is able to provide a vast, elevated space for birds to fly and exercise. One such walk-through aviary at the facility measures approximately 25 meters (82 feet) high, 46 meters (150 feet) long, and 21 meters (69 feet) wide, allowing for the simulation of a natural environment that includes vegetation and streams.1