Immersion Exhibit Design at Dublin Zoo
 

B. Walsh, Keeper

Dublin Zoo

Dublin , Ireland

brenvilla@hotmail.com

Immersion design is the process by which animals and visitors share the same environment, but a different place. Immersion exhibit design has been an integral part of Dublin Zoo's developments over the past 8 years. The concept aims to provide a more natural home for the animal, and a more enjoyable and educational experience for the visitor. This has involved the construction of large 'relica habitats' for many species at the zoo, including 'The Kaziranga Trail' for Asian elephants and 'African Savannah' for African hoofstock. Due for completion in 2010 is 'The Gorilla Rainforest'. Each themed 'habitat' will eventually have specific educational and fund raising initiatives. For example,  the Kaziranga Trail has connections with Kaziranga National Park in  India , where we send money, and in the future, keepers will go to help locals look after native wildlife in the Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary.