Existing comment:
Smithsonian's National Zoo -- 125 Years
House Remodeling:
Animal enclosures have changed over time, evolving from mere "housing" to more natural and enriching environments. The Zoo's 2013 renovation of the 1937 Elephant House to an Elephant Community Center makes room for indoor socializing and playing for our growing, multi-generational elephant herd.
The Elephant Community Center (ECC) is a renovated and expanded Elephant House. Skylights open for fresh air, four feet of sand cushions the flooring, and a wading pool has an elephant-operated shower.
"This building demonstrates our strong commitment to making sure that Asian elephants are here for future generations."
-- Dennis Kelly, National Zoo Director |