Why do urban zoos often use animal houses and outdoor enclosures?

Urban zoos often utilize a combination of animal houses and outdoor enclosures to balance the needs of the animals with the limitations of their environment. Because urban zoos are typically restricted in size, they must maximize the use of available space while ensuring the safety of both the public and the animals.1

Animal houses are essential for providing controlled environments where staff can precisely regulate factors such as temperature, humidity, ventilation, and lighting to meet the specific biological requirements of different species. For example, these buildings allow zoos to create specialized conditions for nocturnal animals by reversing their light cycles or to provide necessary warmth for tropical species.12

Outdoor enclosures, such as paddocks and aviaries, are used to provide animals with space to exercise and to simulate more natural habitats. By incorporating features like pools, climbing structures, and vegetation, these outdoor areas encourage natural behaviors. This dual-housing approach ensures that animals have access to both the protection of a managed indoor facility and the physical benefits of an outdoor environment.1