Woodland Park Zoo--Seattle, Washington

This 1989 image shows interior barrier posts that were inspired by those seen at the Royal Elephant Stockade in Thailand. The barrier system has since been modified to facilitate protected contact management techniques.
Through it’s temple like design and size, the indoor facility is intended to evoke feelings of respect and admiration for elephants.
"All of these photos were taken in 1989 at the completion of the new elephant facility. Unfortunately they had become obsolete within 10 years by 1999. The keeping of animals in captivity is a constantly changing world. And it may behoove you to plan for the future, what ever that may be. The greatest shame of animal husbandry is an antiquated "Grandfather clause" which many folks have used to continue with the way's, right or wrong that is debatable, of old.
his photo was taken prior to the implementation of protected contact but staff can still work on both sides of the main herd holding area outside of an elephant’s trunk reach.
Elephants have free access to a heated interior. The aesthetic design of the facility was inspired by the architecture of temples in Northern Thailand (see inset).
"They spend a goodly sum of money sending keepers and staff to Thailand in an effort at authenticity and then included an African elephant in the exhibit!!!!"
An elephant walks through the gate towards the saddle shed. Between 1989 and 1999, elephants hauled logs through this area during a narrated education program.