It is also important to consider the visitors that will
be viewing the animals. Make sure that all visitors
are able to see the animals: For example, children and
people in wheelchairs have a much lower point of view
and may not be able to look over a wall or bush.
An enclosure should look exciting and welcoming
to attract visitors. Enclosures can be made rather
naturalistic and the challenge is to let people think
there is little or no boundary between them and the
animal.
Remember to consider the number of visitors
that could come and look at the enclosure at the
same time and try to include this in the design to
avoid overcrowding (broader pathways, one way
walkthrough, multiple viewing points). However,
visitors should never be allowed to view the enclosure
from all sides to prevent the animals from feeling
crowded. At some points the view of visitors should
be blocked by shrubs or other materials to allow some
privacy for the animals (especially for nervous species).
An enclosure should also be safe for the visitors. All
doors to non-public areas should be locked at all times,
to prevent unauthorized access and stand-off barriers
should be added to make sure that visitors cannot
come into contact with the animals (chapter 3.2).