The Brookfield Zoo’s Seven Seas habitat has undergone a remarkable $10 million renovation, transforming it into a state-of-the-art home for its seven bottlenose dolphins. This extensive project, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act and generous donors, has created a captivating and enriching environment for both the dolphins and the visitors.
Renovation and Enhancements
The renovation process lasted 15 months, during which the dolphins were temporarily housed at the Minnesota Zoo. The new and improved Seven Seas habitat boasts several exciting features:
- Rockwork Structures: The exhibit now features intricate rockwork structures with anchors for attaching various enrichment items, such as kelp strips and floating objects, to stimulate the dolphins’ natural behaviors.
- Sand Pit: A shallow sand pit has been added, allowing the dolphins to hide objects and use their exceptional echolocation skills.
- Bubbler Systems: Playful bubbler systems have been installed, creating an underwater hide-and-seek environment that encourages the dolphins to interact with their surroundings.
- Artificial Plantings: The habitat now features artificial plantings that mimic the natural vegetation found around Sarasota Bay, Florida, including mangrove trees and tall grasses, further enhancing the immersive experience.
- Lighting and Climate Control: The exhibit boasts LED lighting and a climate-controlled environment, ensuring the dolphins’ comfort and well-being.
- Accessibility: The renovation has also improved accessibility, with better seating options for visitors.
- Underwater Microphones: The exhibit now features underwater microphones that capture the dolphins’ vocalizations, allowing researchers and guests to better understand and appreciate their communication.
- Moveable Floor: A 35-foot-diameter moveable floor has been installed in the south holding pool, enabling low-stress lifting of the dolphins for medical care.
Dolphin Information
The Brookfield Zoo is home to seven bottlenose dolphins, ranging in age from 50 (Lucky) to 18 (Allison). The individual dolphins and their names are as follows:
| Dolphin Name | Age |
|---|---|
| Lucky | 50 |
| Tapeko | 35 |
| Allie | 30 |
| Kai | 25 |
| Spree | 22 |
| Noelani | 20 |
| Allison | 18 |
Show Details and Visitor Information
The Dolphins in Action presentations have resumed on March 22, 2024, and the Underwater Viewing Gallery reopened on March 25, 2024. Ticket prices for the exhibit are as follows:
- Adults: $6.00
- Seniors 65 & Over: $4.00
- Children 3 to 11: $3.00
- Free for Unlimited-Level Members
Conservation Efforts
The Brookfield Zoo is committed to dolphin conservation and research. They conduct the world’s longest-running study of dolphins in the wild, the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, which focuses on understanding dolphin behavior and ecology. Additionally, the zoo administers the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT) Endangered Species Fund, which supports conservation-oriented research projects.
Contact Information
For more information about the Brookfield Zoo’s New Dolphin Exhibit, you can reach out to the zoo using the following contact details:
- Phone Number: (773) 509-5623
- Email: [email protected]
The Brookfield Zoo’s New Dolphin Exhibit is a remarkable achievement, showcasing the zoo’s dedication to providing an exceptional habitat for its bottlenose dolphins and engaging visitors in the wonders of these intelligent marine mammals. Whether you’re a seasoned zoo enthusiast or a first-time visitor, this revamped exhibit is sure to captivate and inspire.