Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is home to two species of bears: Asiatic Black Bears and Grizzly Bears. This guide will provide detailed information about these magnificent creatures and the experiences offered at the zoo.
Asiatic Black Bears at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
The Asiatic Black Bears, also known as moon bears, can be found at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo near the tapirs and across from the play hill. These bears are known for their distinct white crescent marking on their chest.
Asiatic Black Bears are native to the mountainous regions of Asia, including China, Japan, and the Korean Peninsula. They are medium-sized bears, typically weighing between 100 and 300 pounds. These bears are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plants, insects, and small animals.
At Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, visitors can observe the Asiatic Black Bears in their natural habitat, which is designed to mimic their mountainous home. The exhibit features rocky terrain, lush vegetation, and a pool for the bears to cool off in.
Grizzly Bears at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Although there are no native species of black bears at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, they feature Grizzly Bears, Emmett and Digger. These bears invite you to observe their natural behaviors and adaptations to their rugged mountain homes.
Grizzly Bears are a subspecies of the Brown Bear, found primarily in the western regions of North America. They are larger than their Asiatic counterparts, with males typically weighing between 400 and 800 pounds. Grizzly Bears are known for their distinctive hump on their shoulders, which is a result of their powerful muscles used for digging and foraging.
At Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Grizzly Bear exhibit is designed to showcase the bears’ natural behaviors and adaptations. Visitors can observe the bears as they forage, play, and interact with each other.
Bear Encounters at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with Grizzly Bears through their Encounter program. This 30-minute experience allows you to meet the keepers, take photos, and observe the bears behind-the-scenes. The encounter costs $475 for up to four people and includes admission to the zoo for the day. All encounters are conducted in a protected contact situation, and touching the animal is generally not available.
The Bear Encounter is a popular attraction at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, offering visitors a rare and unforgettable experience with these magnificent creatures.
Zoo Improvements and Grizzly Bear Habitat Updates
The zoo is continuously improving its facilities, including updates to the Grizzly Bear habitat. Emmett and Digger have temporarily moved to the Asiatic bear area near the play hill while their habitat undergoes renovations. Guests can visit them in their temporary home, which is next door to Beezler, the beloved aging Asiatic black bear.
These habitat updates are part of the zoo’s ongoing commitment to providing the best possible care and environment for the animals in their care.
Hours and Contact Information
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For more information about the zoo and its animals, you can contact them at (719) 633-9925 or visit their website at www.cmzoo.org.