Buffalo Zoo, Buffalo, NY
The most significant project
to date in the long-term
reconstruction of Buffalo Zoo has
been realized with the opening
of the new $16-million, 18,000
square foot Rainforest Falls
exhibit. The indoor exhibits are
sheltered within a technologically-
advanced building shell, designed
by Foit-Albert Associates. The
transparent, energy efficient roof
employs an innovative technology
used perhaps for the first time in
a North American zoo. High-tech
membrane “pillows” insulate the A small collection of carnivorous
building, while allowing maximum plants highlight some of the
UV penetration to benefit plants, unique botanical wonders of this
mammals, and the reptiles on isolated habitat.
Rainforest
exhibit.
At the foot of the plateau, a
meandering river leads visitors to
a mixed-species exhibit of dwarf
caiman and capybara that inhabit
an open pool. Individual netted
exhibits display ocelots, monkeys,
Falls
The focal point of the exhibit tortoises, and anteaters. The
space is a naturalistic rockwork expansive interior space is in fact
plateau, which simulates the a free-flight aviary animated by
isolated “tepuis” of Venezuela. A scarlet ibis, spoonbills, mot mots,
25-feet high thundering waterfall and other tropical birds.
evokes Angel Falls, the world
highest free-falling waterfall on Mt. In addition to the live animal
Auyantepui.Caves and crevices in exhibits, classrooms and events
the eroded granite plateau reveal space will provide the zoo with
glass-fronted exhibits of vampire much needed conditioned
bats, anacondas, and piranhas. space for special functions and
Along the twisting pathway, educational programs. A large
tarantulas, poison dart frogs, attached greenhouse will assure
and other small animals await that the tropical plants on exhibit
discovery in jewel-case exhibits and unique specimen plants
that are cleverly integrated into can be propagated for exhibit
artificial tree trunks, stumps, and refurbishment and public display.
log jams.
M&T Bank -
Rainforest Falls Building
Buffalo Zoo
Buffalo, New York
2004 to 2008
$ 16 Million
Rainforest Falls
Buffalo Zoo, Buffalo, NY