The Wilder Institute Calgary Zoo has officially opened its latest attraction, the Asian Highlands exhibit, featuring an impressive array of wildlife, including snow leopards, Sichuan takins, and red pandas. Launched on Wednesday morning, this exhibit marks the first of three expansions planned for the zoo’s Imagine Asia area.
A Commitment to Biodiversity
Kyle Burks, CEO of the Wilder Institute, expressed the significance of the Himalayan habitats, stating, “The habitats of the Himalayas are some of the most remote but some of the most important in the world for biodiversity.” He emphasized that the animals showcased in the new exhibit are well-suited to Calgary’s climate, providing an opportunity to raise awareness for conservation issues affecting these species locally.
The snow leopards, which have previously resided at the zoo, were temporarily relocated during the construction phase, while the red pandas were moved to another area within the zoo. Now, both species have returned to their newly designed habitats, which aim to replicate their natural environments more closely.
Enhanced Habitats for Animal Wellbeing
“The new habitats are more expansive—they’re designed to give the animals more choice, more control of their environments,” Burks explained. This innovative approach caters to the natural behaviours of the animals. For example, the habitat created for the Sichuan takins mimics the high-altitude slopes they inhabit in the wild, providing them with a familiar and stimulating environment.
The animals were moved into their new living spaces on Friday and have since taken time to acclimatise before the public viewing areas were opened. This careful transition underscores the zoo’s commitment to the wellbeing of its inhabitants.
Future Expansions on the Horizon
As part of its centennial celebrations leading up to 2029, the Calgary Zoo has plans to unveil two additional exhibits within the Imagine Asia area. Although Burks declined to reveal specific details about the species that will inhabit these future exhibits, he hinted at exciting surprises ahead, saying, “I hate to be cagey about it, but got to save some secrets.”
With the successful opening of the Asian Highlands, the zoo is poised to enhance its offerings and further its mission of education and conservation.
Why it Matters
The opening of the Asian Highlands exhibit not only enriches the visitor experience at the Calgary Zoo but also plays a crucial role in fostering awareness about conservation efforts for endangered species. As urban centres grapple with climate change and habitat loss, initiatives like this highlight the importance of preserving biodiversity. By showcasing these remarkable animals and their natural habitats, the Calgary Zoo contributes to a greater understanding of the challenges they face and encourages community involvement in conservation efforts.
