FIRST ANNUAL REPORT. 41 



It is not possible within the limits of this brief report to 

 enter into the multitude of questions and details covered by the 

 studies and investigations recently made in Europe. The ex- 

 act facts, figures and details gathered from directors, inspectors, 

 keepers and others are mostly matters of permanent record, 

 carefully arranged and indexed for future reference and actual 

 use. In addition to the photographs taken, 185 sketches and 

 plans were drawn, and much valuable literature was .secured. 



Absolute Requirements in an Ideal Zoological 

 Garden. — In conclusion, it is perhaps desirable to summarize 

 the features that the European public absolutely requires in a 

 zoological garden. Stated categorically, in the order of their 

 importance, they are about as follows : — 



1. A location as near as possible to the centre of population. 



2. Ground that can be walked over without great exertion. 



3. The right quantity and quality of shade, both for visitors 

 and for the animals. 



4. A fine series of collections of quadrupeds, birds and rep- 

 tiles, in a good state of health. 



5. Buildings, enclosures and ponds that are thoroughly 

 commodious and comfortable for the animals, and pleasing to 

 the eye of the visitor. 



6. Absolute cleanliness of collections and grounds. 



7. A full and correct system of labelling. 



8. An ample system of walks, and provisions for public 

 comfort. 



9. A complete S3'stem of protection for the animals, and for 

 visitors. 



I regret to .say that I failed to find anywhere any special 

 facilities for artists, although most societies issue permits to 

 sketch and paint the animals in their gardens. 



Acknowledgments. — Without a single exception, the 

 officials of all the gardens visited were exceedingly courteous 

 and helpful in the investigations undertaken. In not a single 

 instance was information refused, and many directors and su- 

 perintendents devoted hours of valuable time to the inquiries 

 of your investigator. For such courtesies, the New York 



