Here are a few pics of why New Orleans Audubon Zoo decided in the 70s that enough was enough.
While most structures in the zoo were built by the WPA in the depression, it would have been cool if the
WPA had been faced with the same pressures that zoos feel today. The Works Progress Administration was
known for doing great work wherever they set their hands, many of our National Park's oldest structures
were built through this program. I guess another problem was that the old zoo had only 14 acres, and now the A.Z.
has over 50 acres to work with. But just look at the cages, NO trees to speak of, and if they were allowed, most of
the animals spent hot days (most days in NO, lol) inside their sleeping quarters. These photos are courtesy of
Joe Carvajal.
This was Monkey Island. I think there was a tree on it. And a huge swingset. But as I recall, all of the species
were thrown together to battle it out Lord of the Flies-style, and as you know, monkeys WILL DO THAT.
All day long in the bright sun, precious little shade, and I am sure only the dominant monkeys got to enjoy it.
it NEVER looked like a nice place to be, any grass sod that was laid down was quickly worn away. it usually
looked, even to my child's eyes, like an asylum full of crazy, sad monkeys. Thank goodness most zoos
know much better today.
