November 25, 2002

Learn how to build your first exhibit in Zoo Tycoon, from choosing fences and terrain to placing animals and decorations. Get your zoo started right!

Alright, let's get this zoo rolling! Building your first exhibit can seem a bit daunting, but it's actually pretty straightforward once you know the steps. Think of it like setting up a cozy home for your new animal friends.

First things first, you'll need to pick out a fence. You've got a few options, and some are definitely more budget-friendly than others. For a lion, I'd lean towards the Chain Link Fence. It does the job just as well as the pricier Iron Bar Fence but costs a lot less – only $70 compared to $180. Every dollar counts when you're starting out!

Next up is the size of the exhibit. For a lion, which likes a bit of space to roam, I'd recommend at least an 8x8 area. That's 64 squares total, and it should cost you around $2,240 for the fence itself. Don't skimp too much on space; happy animals make for happy guests!

Now for the main event: the animal! Since lions are social creatures and tend to have cubs (which are great for bringing in donations!), placing a male and a female is a good start. You'll likely see cubs appear later, and they're a fantastic way to boost your income.

The terrain is super important for keeping your animals comfortable. You can check what the zookeeper recommends, but for a lion, you'll want a mix. Aim for about 80% savannah grass, 13% dirt, 4% sand, and 3% freshwater. If you're working with a standard 64-square exhibit, you can round these percentages to make it easy: roughly 51 squares of savannah grass, 8 squares of dirt, 2 squares of sand, and 3 squares of freshwater. Getting this right is key to a happy lion!

Finally, let's add some finishing touches. Throw in a few trees – you can check the lists section for what trees your specific animal prefers. Some rocks can also make the exhibit look more natural. If you feel like it, a toy can add some enrichment for your lion.

And there you have it! A solid exhibit for your lion. The total cost for everything – fence, animals, terrain, and decorations – will be around $8,520. It might seem like a lot, but remember, shops and stalls, along with your entrance fees, will help you earn that money back quickly. Keep building, and your zoo will be thriving in no time!