Rio Grande Zoo - Albuquerque NM 

Band Shell and Lake

VHGA planned and designed the lake which is integrated into the central portion of the Zoo and serves as a waterfowl and fish exhibit as well an important backdrop to exhibits sited around the perimeter of the lake. The Band Shell hovers over the man-made lake, seemingly floating on the water. The shell is dramatic and flowing in its design and offers the visitor an environment of relaxation, solitude, and reflection. The lake and band Shell are sited within a grove of old bosque cottonwood trees. The Band Shell hosts a range of summer performances from the New Mexico Symphony Orchestra, to plays, to dance, to a wide range of performers.

Bird of Prey Exhibit

Sited amongst cottonwood trees the south facing curved Bird of Prey Exhibit is home to a pair of bald eagles, several species of hawks, and vultures. The cottonwood trees provide shade for the birds in the hot southwestern summers and in the winter when the deciduous trees drop their leaves the sun then provides the needed heat for the comfort of the birds. Each of the five exhibit spaces provides for the birds particular needs for flying space, perch heights, breeding/nesting sites, and feeding areas. A back drop of artificial rock formations patterned after nearby cliffs places the birds and viewers in a natural and real environment.

Primate Exhibit

Boulders, vegetation and a spring feeding water into a pond transport the visitor to the wilds of Africa. In this setting it is easy to envision the orangutan in their natural habitat. The exhibit is oriented to the south to obtain maximum solar gain. The winter sun provides the primates with enough heat that they can remain outdoors year round. The primates are always moved inside for the night. The artificial rock cliff face and the unobtrusive dry moat where both designed as inconspicuous security barriers between the primates and the zoo visitor. Timber play structures, plants, and shade structures provide the primates relief from the summer sun. Behind the scenes enclosures and passageways are designed with many security and safety features when animals are moved between their enclosures.