OKC Zoo has mature trees in the giraffe exhibit, done by having huge boulders placed in rings serving as a raised planter, with the tree in the center so the giraffe cannot reach the tree simply by craning the neck. Giraffes apparently will make no attempt to climb an object even to get to some good chow-- probably has to do with their physiology. Anyway, the method has proven a great success.
nnshape <ntarver@...> wrote:
hi guys,
This is my first question, any input will be greatly appreciated.
I have the perfect place to plant three large canopy type trees or
shrubs in our giraffe exhibit. The trees will have time to grow to 10
feet before the animals can reach them. At maturity they will cast
shade in the front of the exhibit for the animals. The keepers say I am
crazy, that the giraffe will mow them down. I say it is worth a try to
give the animals shade and forage. Any suggestions, also any
suggestions about plant material. I am zone 9b with lots of rain.
Black loqust, Robinia pseudoacacia would be exacly the shape and
foliage type but I think I have seen it on a few toxicity list. Any
suggestion? ALL INPUT WELCOME, and if this is a bad idea like the
keepers say, don't hold back.
Thank you in advance,
nancy
Johnson Bridgwater
WildShare International y
Jardin Botanico y Arboreta de Alta Cima
c/o
2420 NW 49th Street
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73112
USA
http://www.wildshareintl.org
http://www.elcielobiosphere.org
phone: 405-879-6769
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