Brookfield Zoo, a renowned zoological institution in Illinois, is currently undergoing a significant expansion of its primate habitats within the Tropic World exhibit. This exciting project promises to provide visitors with an even more immersive and educational experience when it comes to observing and learning about our closest living relatives, the primates.
New Features of the Expanded Primate Habitats
The upcoming changes to the Brookfield Zoo’s Primate House will introduce several innovative features that are sure to captivate visitors:
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Indoor and Outdoor Habitats: The new space will feature a combination of indoor and outdoor habitats, allowing the primates to thrive in both controlled and naturalistic environments. This will provide the animals with the necessary enrichment and stimulation they require.
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Naturalistic Features: The outdoor habitats will be designed to mimic a tropical forest ecosystem, complete with running water, climbing structures, lush vegetation, and other features that will create a truly immersive experience for both the primates and the visitors.
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Glass Windows: The new exhibit will feature two-story tall glass windows, enabling visitors to get up close and personal with the primates, fostering a deeper connection and understanding of these fascinating creatures.
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Gorilla Conservation Center: A state-of-the-art learning space will be built, dedicated to educating the public about the importance of gorilla conservation. This facility will also serve as a home for the Chicago Zoological Society’s King Conservation Leadership Academy.
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Planting and Landscaping: The outdoor exhibit will undergo a significant transformation, with the addition of 75 new trees, 500 shrubs, and various pollinator gardens, creating a lush and vibrant environment for the primates to thrive in.
Timeline and Completion
The expansion of the Brookfield Zoo’s Primate House is a highly anticipated project, and the timeline for its completion is as follows:
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Construction Start: Construction began in 2023, with preliminary site work and fencing already underway.
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Completion Date: The entire complex is expected to be completed in 2025, with the animals being introduced into the new spaces that year and potentially extending into 2026.
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Groundbreaking Ceremony: An official groundbreaking ceremony is planned for the fall of 2023, marking the official start of this exciting project.
Cost and Impact
The Brookfield Zoo’s Primate House expansion is a significant investment, with an estimated cost between $50 million and $60 million. However, the impact of this project is expected to be far-reaching, as it will:
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Visitor Experience: The new habitats and features will provide visitors with a more immersive and engaging experience, allowing them to connect with the primates in a deeper and more meaningful way.
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Conservation and Education: The Gorilla Conservation Center and the King Conservation Leadership Academy will play a crucial role in educating the public about the importance of primate conservation and inspiring the next generation of conservation leaders.
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Animal Welfare: The new habitats will be designed with the primates’ well-being in mind, ensuring they have the necessary space, enrichment, and resources to thrive.
Conclusion
The expansion of the Brookfield Zoo’s Primate House is an exciting and transformative project that will undoubtedly enhance the visitor experience and contribute to the conservation of these remarkable animals. As the construction progresses and the new habitats take shape, visitors can look forward to an even more immersive and educational encounter with the primates that call Brookfield Zoo home.
References:
- https://www.rblandmark.com/2023/03/21/brookfield-zoo-formally-unveils-plans-for-new-primate-habitat/
- https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/brookfield-zoo-expansion-apes-monkeys-primates/3099664/
- https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/Brookfield-Zoo/About-%281%29/Press-room/2023-Press-Releases-%281%29/Brookfield-Zoo-Expanding-Space-for-Apes-and-Monkey.