 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|||||||||||
 |
 |
 |
|
|||||||||
 |
 |
 |
|
|||||||||
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
|
|
|
|
|||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||
Studies of space-use patterns of several social animal species suggest that group members distribute themselves in both linear (axial), and clustered (convex) arrangements. These arrangements appear to be linked to the ability of animal groups to function as coordinated social units in an unpredictable environment. Convex arrangements facilitate the intense social interaction necessary to establish and enforce role relationships within the group. Axial arrangements reinforce these relationships and facilitate the environmental awareness necessary for effective foraging and seasonal migration.
The topological nature of these patterns provides the foundation for reducing the scale of habitats in artificial exhibits, while preserving their socio-spatial properties. Bioexhibit site-plans that provide social groups with opportunities to move between convex and axial arrangements, will correspondingly provide them with opportunities to exercise species-appropriate social behavior. Further, the configurational correlates of this social behavior establish the foundation for developing visitor interfaces that make this social behavior accessible, thereby, providing visitors with a better understanding of groups of individuals as social units. These new habitats and visitor interfaces imply significant change in site-planning, layout and configuration and management of bioexhibits.
Hediger [1964] emphasizes the importance of the "ground plans" that each animal carries around in its head. His "ground plan" diagram of an animal's differentiated territory suggests a way to consider the distribution of convex spaces within a network of axial routes. Each convex area is associated with a particular activity (e.g., bathing, feeding, elimination). These convex areas are embedded in a network of interconnecting trails or tunnels. Design methodologies derived from space syntax theory provide ways to incorporate species typical ground plans into bioexhibit master planning.
Hediger, H. (1964) WILD ANIMALS IN CAPTIVITY, New York, Dover.
