52 NEW YORK ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY. 
of the walls without corners or seams, has undoubtedly exercised 
a great influence on the general cleanliness of the building, and 
absence of odors. 
It is a great satisfaction to be able to report that, were we to 
build next year a new house for primates, it would be very diffi- 
cult to suggest even one important improvement upon the present 
structure. That the building is crowded with visitors during 
Saturdays and Sundays of the season when visitors are most 
numerous, need cause neither surprise nor regret; for were the 
structure five times as large as it now is, it would, during those 
periods, be crowded precisely as it is now. So long as apes and 
monkeys are in good health, and perform their usual antics on 
horizontal bar and trapeze, just so long will people pack six deep 
in front of their cages, and stand until they are compelled by 
policemen and keepers to move on. 
PRACTICAL WORKING OF THE LION HOUSE. 
The Lion House has now been in actual use a little more than 
one year, during which time it has been thoroughly tested. Thus 
far but two defects have been revealed, both of which are of so 
simple a character that they can easily be remedied, and the 
necessary substitution of materials will be accomplished at an 
early date, with no disturbance to the daily routine. The Lion 
House may be described as a handsome domicile joined to an 
elaborate but smoothly-working machine. It appears to be the 
verdict of the public that in view of the fine facilities it affords 
for the exhibition of its animals, for their management and care, 
and for the general comfort of the public, this building is worth 
all that it has cost. 
Beyond question, the animals are as contented, as happy and 
as active in their cages as such animals ever could be in captivity. 
The wire cage-fronts have proven an unqualified success, and 
the color-scheme of the cage interiors is almost everything 
that could be desired for the exhibition of large felines. The 
elevated balconies and the high steps leading up to them are used 
by the majority of the animals to a gratifying extent, and beyond 
question, the climbing done by the animals from day to day is 
beneficial to their health and spirits. It has been noticed, with 
particular pleasure, that the lions born and thus far reared in 
the Lion House use these steps and balconies very freely, quite 
as if they appreciate the climbing privilege more than those ani- 
mals which matured elsewhere without similar opportunities. 
