Thanks, Great input. If you have a
picture of the rock barrier you could share, it would be great. Thanks again
From: David Selk
[mailto:david.selk@...]
Sent: Wednesday, January 09, 2008
6:43 PM
To: '
Subject: RE: [AZH] giraffe exhibit
Having plants with animals and in
exhibits is never a bad idea - sometimes it is a challenge and creative
solutions should be encouraged.
Black locust is indeed listed as a toxic
plant You could try some of the spreading types of honey locust
(Gleditsia triacanthos) as they are non toxic as far as I know. Check the
variety 'Skyline'. However, please be diligent and check
whether this tree has potential for seeding itself where you are and could
potentially become an invasive plant. Your climate is not dissimilar to
We have trees on our savanna with giraffe
and what we have done is put 8-12" rocks half buried in the soil around
the tree out to the drip line. They are placed close enough together to deter
giraffe from approaching the trees. The exhibit has been in place for over 25
years so it seems to work. Let me know if you want me to send
you photographs.
David Selk
From:
Sent: Wednesday, January 09, 2008
3:18 PM
To:
Subject: [AZH] giraffe exhibit
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,
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