Brookfield Zoo, a renowned institution in the heart of Illinois, is undergoing a significant transformation with the construction of its new Ape House. This ambitious project aims to provide an unparalleled experience for visitors, offering a glimpse into the fascinating world of primates and their natural habitats.
Major Changes in Tropic World Renovation
The Tropic World habitat at Brookfield Zoo is the focal point of this exciting renovation. The key changes include:
- New Space: The renovation will cover nearly two acres, featuring both indoor and outdoor habitats for two gorilla troops: a family unit and a bachelor group consisting of adult and adolescent males.
- Outdoor Habitats: Four new outdoor areas will be constructed for orangutans and several species of South American monkeys, replicating a tropical forest environment with naturalistic features such as running water, climbing structures, grasses, and vines.
- Gorilla Conservation Center: A state-of-the-art learning space for the public and a dedicated home for the Chicago Zoological Society’s King Conservation Leadership Academy will be built, focusing on science programming for high school-age students.
- Design and Construction: The project includes a rooftop terrace for private events and a two-story glass window for up-close viewing of the gorillas. The outdoor exhibit will be covered in canopies of aviary mesh to keep the primates safe and allow them to experience the outdoors.
Timeline and Budget
- Construction Timeline: Construction began in 2023 and is scheduled for completion in 2025, with animals being introduced into the new spaces that year and potentially extending into 2026.
- Budget: The estimated cost of the project is between $50 million and $66 million, making it a significant investment in the zoo’s future.
Key Features and Benefits
The new Ape House at Brookfield Zoo promises to deliver an immersive and educational experience for visitors:
- Naturalistic Environment: The new habitats will feature naturalistic elements such as running water, climbing structures, grasses, and vines to create a tropical forest environment that closely resembles the primates’ natural habitats.
- Close-Up Viewing: Visitors will be able to see the primates up close through two-story tall glass windows, allowing for a more intimate and engaging experience.
- Conservation and Education: The Gorilla Conservation Center will provide a state-of-the-art learning space for the public, offering educational programs and workshops focused on primate conservation and environmental stewardship.
- Expanded Outdoor Spaces: The four new outdoor areas for orangutans and South American monkeys will offer these primates more space to roam, explore, and engage in natural behaviors, enhancing their overall well-being and providing visitors with a more immersive experience.
Visitor Information and Contact
For those interested in visiting the new Ape House at Brookfield Zoo, here are the key details:
- Visiting Hours: The Ape House will be open during regular zoo hours, which are typically from 10 AM to 5 PM daily.
- Admission Fees: Admission fees for Brookfield Zoo vary depending on the visitor’s age and residency status. Visitors are encouraged to check the zoo’s website for the most up-to-date pricing information.
- Contact Information: For any inquiries or additional information, visitors can reach out to the Director of Public Relations, Sondra Katzen, at the following:
- Office: 708-688-8351
- Cell Phone: 708-903-2071
- Email: [email protected]
The new Ape House at Brookfield Zoo promises to be a must-visit destination for zoo enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its immersive primate habitats, state-of-the-art conservation and education facilities, and a commitment to providing an exceptional visitor experience, this renovation is set to redefine the way we engage with and appreciate the fascinating world of primates.