Why Zoos Love Fiberglass: Creating Safe & Natural Animal Habitats
- Chelsea Gillespie
- Jul 18
- 2 min read
How fiberglass rocks, trees, and barriers help zoos build realistic, enriching environments for animals and visitors alike.
Creating lifelike, safe, and weather-resistant environments is a top priority for modern zoos. That’s why fiberglass has become the go-to material for exhibit construction. From fiberglass landscape boulders to fiberglass trees for zoo exhibits, this lightweight yet durable material can be molded into stunningly realistic natural features - without the downsides of real stone or wood.
Here’s how zoos around the world use fiberglass to build immersive, long-lasting habitats.
1. Artificial Rockwork & Landscaping
Zoos frequently use fiberglass landscape rocks and fiberglass trees to recreate realistic environments.
Fiberglass is ideal for crafting:
Artificial rocks and cliffs
Caves and crevices
Faux logs and hollow trees
Tree trunks and roots
Waterfalls and streams.
These structures are lightweight, weather-resistant, and textured to look natural, while offering:
Enrichment and stimulation for animals
Hiding places, perches, and climbing surfaces
Visual realism for guests.
How It’s Made:
Layers of structural fiberglass and resin are molded over a framework, then painted and sealed for a realistic finish that’s non-toxic and durable.
Real-World Examples:
San Diego Zoo: Custom rockwork and fiberglass trees support species like elephants and primates.
Bronx Zoo: The Congo Gorilla Forest features cliffs and logs made from fiberglass to enhance safety and realism.
Chester Zoo, UK: Their Islands exhibit uses fiberglass termite mounds and rockwork to mimic Southeast Asian landscapes.
2. Barriers and Viewing Panels
Fiberglass panels serve as lightweight and safe alternatives to traditional barriers.
These can be:
Molded to fit curved enclosures
Textured to blend with rocks or foliage
Designed for both safety and aesthetics.
They’re especially useful where glass or metal would break visual immersion or pose a risk.
Real-World Example:
Dubai Safari Park uses fiberglass walkways and guest barriers that mimic natural terrain - while withstanding extreme heat and maintaining safety.
3. Shelter and Enrichment Items
Fiberglass is also ideal for creating functional features such as:
Animal shelters and dens
Nesting boxes or burrows
Enrichment features like tunnels and climbing logs.
Because they resist moisture, pests, and wear, fiberglass shelters are both safe and practical for animals.
Real-World Examples:
San Diego Zoo: Fiberglass climbing structures support enrichment for primates and big cats.
Chester Zoo: Fiberglass burrows offer shelter and encourage natural behaviors in meerkats and other mammals.
Why Not Use Real Materials?
Material | Issues |
Real Rocks | Too heavy, hard to move, risk of injury |
Real Wood | Rots, harbors pests, hard to sanitize |
Fiberglass | Lightweight, durable, easy to clean |
In Summary
Fiberglass gives zoos the flexibility to create custom environments that are:
Safe and hygienic
Visually stunning
Durable and weather-resistant
Enriching for animals.
Whether it’s fiberglass landscape boulders, climbing logs, or artificial trees, this material enables zoos to combine safety with creativity in every habitat.
Looking to transform your zoo or wildlife exhibit? Our custom fiberglass rocks, trees, and structures are built to inspire wonder - and stand the test of time. Contact us to start your project.
Share & follow
For any inquiries, please contact:
Email: info@decorandprops.com
