The Brookfield Zoo Bear Grottos were a renowned attraction at the Brookfield Zoo, known for their innovative cageless, moated exhibits that allowed visitors to observe bears in a more natural setting. This blog post delves into the history, design, and notable events surrounding these iconic bear habitats.
History and Design of the Brookfield Zoo Bear Grottos
The Brookfield Zoo was the first zoo in the United States to incorporate cageless, moated exhibits, which were inspired by European zoos. This innovative design was made possible by the generous donation of 83 acres of land by Edith Rockefeller McCormick, who envisioned a zoo that would provide a more natural and immersive experience for visitors.
The moated grotto exhibits allowed visitors to view the animals without obstructions, and even enabled them to feed the bears marshmallows from a nearby concession stand. This unique setup created a memorable and interactive experience for zoo-goers, who could observe the bears in a more natural habitat.
Notable Events at the Brookfield Zoo Bear Grottos
The Great Polar Bear Escape of 1969
One of the most famous events in the history of the Brookfield Zoo Bear Grottos was the “Great Polar Bear Escape of 1969.” On July 17, 1969, heavy rainfall caused flooding in the bear enclosures, allowing seven polar bears to escape their moat and swim to freedom. The bears raided a nearby concession stand, indulging in marshmallows and other treats before being safely returned to their habitat. This incident became a beloved and entertaining story in the annals of zoo history.
Bear Rescues and Habitat Changes
In 1995, two orphaned brown bear cubs, Jim and Axhi, were rescued from Admiralty Island in Alaska and brought to the Brookfield Zoo. They initially lived in the old Bear Grottos, but were later moved to the Great Bear Wilderness habitat as the zoo continued to evolve and improve the living conditions for its animal residents.
Current Status of the Brookfield Zoo Bear Grottos
The old Bear Grottos were eventually closed and replaced by the Great Bear Wilderness habitat, which now serves as the home for bears like Hudson the polar bear and Jim the brown bear. This new habitat provides a more expansive and naturalistic environment for the zoo’s bear population.
Key Details about the Brookfield Zoo Bear Grottos
Location: Brookfield Zoo, located in suburban Chicago, Illinois.
Contact Information:
– Office: 708-688-8351
– Cell Phone: 708-903-2071
– Email: [email protected]
Hours of Operation:
– Holiday Magic dates: 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.
– Non-Holiday Magic dates: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Brookfield Zoo Bear Grottos were a groundbreaking and iconic attraction that captivated visitors for decades. While the original grottos have been replaced, the zoo’s commitment to providing exceptional animal care and immersive experiences continues to this day. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, the Brookfield Zoo remains a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the world of zoos and wildlife.