Brookfield Zoo’s dolphin exhibit, known as the Seven Seas, was closed for 15 months to undergo a $10 million renovation. The renovation aimed to enhance both animal wellbeing and guest experience. During this time, the seven bottlenose dolphins were temporarily housed at the Minnesota Zoo, where they were cared for by Brookfield Zoo’s marine mammal team.
Renovation Details
The $10 million renovation of the Brookfield Zoo’s Seven Seas dolphin exhibit lasted for 15 months. The renovation project focused on improving the overall experience for both the dolphins and the visitors. Here are the key features that were added during the renovation:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Rockwork structures with anchors for enrichment items | These structures provide the dolphins with opportunities to interact with various enrichment items, promoting their natural behaviors and mental stimulation. |
| Shallow sand pit for echolocation exercises | The sand pit allows the dolphins to engage in echolocation exercises, which is an essential part of their natural behavior. |
| Built-in bubbler systems for play and echolocation challenges | The bubbler systems create playful and challenging environments for the dolphins to explore and develop their echolocation skills. |
| Hydrophones for underwater sound monitoring | The hydrophones enable the zoo staff to monitor the underwater sounds and communication of the dolphins, which is crucial for their care and research. |
| Upgrades to overhead cameras for research and monitoring | The improved camera system allows for better observation and data collection, supporting the ongoing research and monitoring of the dolphins. |
| New roof, skylights, and pool lining | These upgrades enhance the overall environment and improve the energy efficiency of the exhibit. |
| LED lighting for energy efficiency | The LED lighting system reduces energy consumption and provides a more sustainable solution for the exhibit. |
| Improved heating and cooling system | The enhanced HVAC system ensures the dolphins’ comfort and well-being by maintaining the optimal temperature and air quality. |
| Enhanced ventilation system | The improved ventilation system helps to maintain a healthy and comfortable environment for the dolphins and visitors. |
| Accessibility seating for wheelchairs during presentations | The addition of accessible seating ensures that all visitors can enjoy the dolphin presentations comfortably. |
| Refreshed Underwater Viewing Gallery with new signage and lighting projections | The updated Underwater Viewing Gallery provides a more engaging and informative experience for visitors. |
| Digital monitors for behind-the-scenes dolphin science and research | The digital monitors allow visitors to learn about the ongoing research and science behind the dolphin care and conservation efforts. |
Reopening Schedule
After the 15-month renovation, the Brookfield Zoo’s Seven Seas dolphin exhibit is set to reopen with the following schedule:
- Dolphins in Action Presentations: Resume on March 22
- Underwater Viewing Gallery: Reopens on March 25
Dolphin Information
The Brookfield Zoo is home to a group of seven bottlenose dolphins, each with their own unique story and personality. Here are the details about the dolphins:
| Name | Age |
|---|---|
| Lucky | 50 |
| Tapeko | 42 |
| Allie | 36 |
| Kai | 29 |
| Spree | 21 |
| Noelani | 20 |
| Allison | 18 |
Bottlenose dolphins, the species housed at the Brookfield Zoo, are generally listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. However, some populations of bottlenose dolphins are classified as Vulnerable, Endangered, or Critically Endangered, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.
Ticket Prices
The Brookfield Zoo offers the following ticket prices for visitors to the Seven Seas dolphin exhibit:
- Adults: $6.00
- Seniors 65 & Over: $4.00
- Children 3 to 11: $3.00
- Free for Unlimited-Level Members
These prices provide affordable access to the newly renovated dolphin exhibit, allowing visitors to enjoy the enhanced experience and learn about these fascinating marine mammals.
Conclusion
The Brookfield Zoo’s $10 million renovation of the Seven Seas dolphin exhibit has transformed the experience for both the dolphins and the visitors. With the addition of new enrichment features, improved infrastructure, and enhanced accessibility, the exhibit is poised to provide an engaging and educational experience for all who visit. As the dolphins return to their newly renovated home, the Brookfield Zoo invites zoo enthusiasts to witness the wonders of these remarkable creatures and the dedication to their care and conservation.