Fw: (CN) Chimpanzees get 'better' abode at zoo

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http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2003-11/22/content_1192911.htm

Chimpanzees get 'better' abode at zoo

 

Shanghai, Nov. 22, (Xinhuanet) -- Three chimpanzees - two males and a

female - at Shanghai Zoo moved into a newly decorated home yesterday

morning.

 

It was part of a project, co-sponsored by the zoo and the " Roots &

Shoots Education Program, " a conservation body, to offer more wild space to

chimps at the zoo.

 

The organization raised 480,000 yuan (US$57,831) for the project, while

the zoo is responsible for the remaining 480,000 needed to establish a

" chimp world. "

 

Dr Jane Goodall, a famed British zoologist who founded Roots, opened

the

new home yesterday.

 

The 42-square-meter house features a steel emulational " tree " enveloped

by brown cement, decorated as barks. Above the tree is a big net containing

food and fruits.

 

Zoo chief Xiong Chengpei said they will build three more such homes for

the zoo's 20-plus chimps.

 

" A wild environment, including forests and outdoor climbing poles, will

be ready by May, " said Steven Protz, designer of the chimp house.