The Brookfield Zoo in Illinois is undergoing a significant expansion of its Tropic World: Africa exhibit, with a focus on creating a state-of-the-art gorilla habitat. This exciting project aims to provide visitors with an unparalleled opportunity to connect with these magnificent primates in a more personal and engaging way.
The Expansion Plan
The Brookfield Zoo’s expansion of the Tropic World: Africa exhibit is estimated to cost between $50 million and $60 million. Construction is expected to begin in 2023 and be completed by 2025, transforming the existing gorilla habitat into a truly immersive experience.
Key Features of the New Habitat
- Dual Gorilla Spaces: The new habitat will feature two separate spaces for gorilla troops, allowing for a family unit and a bachelor group of adult and adolescent males.
- Naturalistic Outdoor Environment: The outdoor habitat will be designed to mimic the natural environment, with features such as running water, climbing structures, grasses, and vines. The exhibit will be covered in canopies of aviary mesh to keep the primates safe while allowing them to experience the outdoors.
- Abundant Greenery: The habitat will be planted with 75 new trees, 500 shrubs, and several pollinator gardens, creating a lush and vibrant setting for the gorillas.
- Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Transition: The new setup will enable a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces for the gorillas, orangutans, and monkeys, providing them with a more dynamic and enriching environment.
Gorilla Conservation Center
In addition to the expanded habitat, the Brookfield Zoo is also building a state-of-the-art Gorilla Conservation Center. This facility will include:
- Learning Spaces: The center will feature dedicated learning spaces for the public, allowing visitors to deepen their understanding and appreciation of gorillas and their conservation.
- King Conservation Leadership Academy: The center will serve as the home for the Chicago Zoological Society’s King Conservation Leadership Academy, a program focused on developing the next generation of conservation leaders.
- Gorilla Accommodations: The center will provide 16 sleeping areas for the gorillas, as well as two day rooms and two-story-high glass windows for visitors to observe the primates.
Enhancing the Visitor Experience
The Brookfield Zoo’s Tropic World: Africa expansion is designed to create a more immersive and engaging experience for visitors. Some of the key features that will enhance the visitor experience include:
- Two-Story Glass Windows: Visitors will be able to observe the gorillas up close through two-story-high glass windows, allowing for a more personal connection with these magnificent creatures.
- Mesh-Enclosed Metal Chutes: The habitat will feature mesh-enclosed metal chutes that will enable the gorillas to pass over visitors, further enhancing the sense of proximity and interaction.
Additional Improvements at the Brookfield Zoo
The Brookfield Zoo’s expansion of the Tropic World: Africa exhibit is part of a larger plan to improve and enhance the zoo’s overall offerings. Some of the other projects in the works include:
- New Aviary: The zoo is planning to build a new aviary, providing visitors with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of various bird species.
- Blanding’s and Box Turtle Habitat: A new habitat dedicated to the conservation of Blanding’s and box turtles is also in the works.
- Seasonal Macaw Habitat: The zoo will be introducing a seasonal habitat for Macaws, allowing visitors to experience the vibrant colors and personalities of these tropical birds.
Funding the Improvements: The Next Century Campaign
As the Brookfield Zoo approaches its centennial celebration in 2034, the zoo will be launching its “Next Century Campaign” to fund these exciting improvements and expansions. This campaign will be crucial in ensuring that the Brookfield Zoo continues to provide world-class experiences for visitors and remains a leader in animal conservation and education.
In conclusion, the Brookfield Zoo’s expansion of the Tropic World: Africa exhibit, with a focus on the gorilla habitat, is a testament to the zoo’s commitment to providing an immersive and engaging experience for visitors. By creating a naturalistic and dynamic environment for the primates, the zoo aims to foster a deeper connection between visitors and these magnificent animals, while also advancing its conservation efforts and educational initiatives.