“Rain forests are disappearing at an alarming rate.” This stark reminder echoes in JungleWorld. It is a captivating exhibit within the Bronx Zoo. JungleWorld opened its doors thirty years ago. It was an ambitious undertaking. It sought to recreate a Southeast Asian rainforest. It aimed to educate visitors about the importance of these ecosystems.
The exhibit was conceived as an orientation for the Wild Asia complex. It grew into a major attraction. JungleWorld showcases the wonders of rainforests. The project required immense effort. Scientific artistic and mechanical staff collaborated. They were led by Bronx Zoo Director William Conway. Generosity from Enid A. Haupt made the plans a reality.
Mervin Larson Company worked with NYZS staff. They realized Walter Deichmann’s designs. The team transformed ordinary materials. They used steel concrete and fiberglass. They crafted replicas of rainforest elements. These included ant nests and giant trees. Artists shaped the space. Muralist Nick Wilson completed a huge diorama. It covered over 17500 square feet. JungleWorld featured over 100 species of tropical plants. These ranged from cycads to orchids.
JungleWorld housed approximately 780 animals of 99 species. These included Bali mynas and smooth-clawed otters. Proboscis monkeys were also present. The exhibit highlighted the dangers to rainforests. A jungle countdown clock showed the decrease in rainforest each second. A population countup clock showed the increase in world population each second.
JungleWorld is more than just an exhibit. It’s a celebration of rainforests. It is a tribute to Earth’s riches. It is an educational tool. It conveys the beauty and value of life. The exhibit seeks to intervene with hope for the future.
Step inside JungleWorld. You are transported to an Asian jungle. Discover tree kangaroos and ebony langurs. See gibbons gharials and tapirs. Spot fruit bats and small-clawed otters. The exhibit uses naturalistic barriers. These include steep surfaces and moats. They separate animals from each other and visitors. Flying species have more freedom to roam.
Some animals live behind traditional glass windows. An example is the Indonesian sailfin lizard. Like basilisk lizards they can run on water.
JungleWorld is a notable feature of the Bronx Zoo. The Bronx Zoo is widely considered a top zoo. JungleWorld is an immersive indoor display. It simulates a tropical rainforest environment. It is a star attraction included in Bronx Zoo Admission.