The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs, Colorado, is undergoing a series of exciting construction projects that aim to enhance the zoo experience for both animals and visitors. From the creation of the Water’s Edge: Africa exhibit to improvements in the giraffe feeding experience and updates to the grizzly bear habitat, these projects are set to elevate the zoo to new heights.
The Water’s Edge: Africa Exhibit
One of the most ambitious projects at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is the creation of the Water’s Edge: Africa exhibit. This exhibit is designed to recreate the Nile River and a South African beach, providing a unique habitat for hippos, penguins, and lemurs. The project includes an advanced filtration and recycling system that significantly reduces water waste, setting a new standard for zoos worldwide.
Giraffe Feeding Experience Enhancements
In addition to the Water’s Edge: Africa exhibit, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is also improving the giraffe feeding experience. This includes the installation of a cutting-edge hydroponic system that uses repurposed shipping crates to grow the majority of the zoo’s own lettuce. This sustainable and weather-resistant system is exponentially more efficient than traditional farms or greenhouses, providing a more interactive and educational experience for visitors.
Grizzly Bear Habitat Updates
The grizzly bear habitat at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is also undergoing a series of updates to improve both guest experiences and animal experiences. These updates include the removal of the grizzly bear boardwalk, the construction of new pathways, and the addition of a second guest viewing area. The elevator tower will remain in place as a future play feature, with giant tube slides attached to its sides.
Conservation Efforts
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is also committed to conservation efforts, with a focus on the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, on-site breeding programs for black-footed ferrets and Wyoming toads, and efforts to preserve habitats for orangutans. Visitors can contribute to these conservation efforts through the Quarters for Conservation (Q4C) program, which adds a $0.75 charge to the ticket admission price to directly support conservation efforts.
Elevate Capital Campaign
These construction projects are part of a larger capital campaign, Elevate Capital Campaign, which aims to make improvements, upgrades, and exciting additions that will reach every corner of the Zoo. This campaign will allow the zoo to continue providing cutting-edge animal care, doing critical conservation work, and providing experiences for a lifetime with every visit at a newly elevated level.
Key Facts about Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Construction
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Water’s Edge: Africa Exhibit | Recreates the Nile River and a South African beach, providing a unique habitat for hippos, penguins, and lemurs. Includes an advanced filtration and recycling system to reduce water waste. |
| Giraffe Feeding Experience | Installation of a cutting-edge hydroponic system that uses repurposed shipping crates to grow the majority of the zoo’s own lettuce. |
| Grizzly Bear Habitat Updates | Removal of the grizzly bear boardwalk, construction of new pathways, and addition of a second guest viewing area. Elevator tower to remain as a future play feature. |
| Conservation Efforts | Focus on the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, on-site breeding programs for black-footed ferrets and Wyoming toads, and efforts to preserve habitats for orangutans. Visitors can contribute through the Quarters for Conservation (Q4C) program. |
| Elevate Capital Campaign | Aims to make improvements, upgrades, and exciting additions throughout the zoo, allowing it to continue providing cutting-edge animal care, critical conservation work, and unforgettable experiences. |
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s construction projects are a testament to the zoo’s commitment to providing an exceptional experience for both animals and visitors. By investing in these innovative and sustainable initiatives, the zoo is setting a new standard for zoos worldwide and ensuring that the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo remains a premier destination for years to come.
References:
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Water’s Edge: Africa Exhibit
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Raises Over $5 Million
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Breaks Ground on Improvements
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Elevate Capital Campaign
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Grizzly Bear Habitat Updates