The Denver Zoo Elephant Passage, also known as the Toyota Elephant Passage, is a remarkable 10-acre exhibit that showcases the beauty and diversity of the animal kingdom. As a zoo enthusiast, I’m excited to take you on a virtual tour of this impressive habitat and share the key details that make it a must-visit destination for any animal lover.
Overview of the Denver Zoo Elephant Passage
The Denver Zoo Elephant Passage is a sprawling 10-acre exhibit that is home to a variety of species, including Asian elephants, Greater one-horned rhinos, Malayan tapirs, clouded leopards, fishing cats, and small-clawed otters. What sets this exhibit apart is its impressive LEED Platinum certification, making it a shining example of environmental stewardship and sustainable design.
Habitat Features
One of the standout features of the Denver Zoo Elephant Passage is its innovative “flex habitats.” These five habitats allow the animal care staff to have greater flexibility in managing and exhibiting the animals, ensuring their well-being and providing visitors with a dynamic and engaging experience.
The exhibit also features a unique railroad-style bridge and at-grade crossings that connect the various habitats, allowing visitors to observe the animals as they move between these spaces. Additionally, the exhibit boasts an impressive array of pools and water features, totaling 1.1 million gallons of water, where the animals can swim and bathe.
Another highlight of the Denver Zoo Elephant Passage is the demonstration area, where visitors can observe the animal care staff interacting with the animals in a protected contact environment. This provides a unique opportunity to learn about the animals and the zoo’s conservation efforts.
Amenities and Activities
In addition to the impressive animal habitats, the Denver Zoo Elephant Passage offers a range of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy. The Kamala Café provides pre-packaged and patio service, allowing visitors to refuel and take a break during their visit. The exhibit also features men’s, women’s, and family restrooms, ensuring a comfortable experience for all.
The McGrath Family Amphitheater hosts live demonstrations at 11:00 AM and 1:45 PM, weather permitting, giving visitors a chance to learn more about the animals and the zoo’s conservation efforts.
Notable Facts
The Denver Zoo Elephant Passage is a true standout in the world of zoos. It is the first LEED Platinum exhibit in the United States, setting a new standard for sustainable and environmentally-conscious design. Additionally, the exhibit has the capacity to house more bull elephants than any other zoo habitat, with a capacity for up to eight male elephants.
Opening and Cost
The Denver Zoo Elephant Passage opened to the public in 2012, after a construction cost of approximately $50 million. This significant investment reflects the zoo’s commitment to providing a world-class experience for visitors and ensuring the well-being of the animals in their care.
As a zoo enthusiast, I can confidently say that the Denver Zoo Elephant Passage is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the wonders of the animal kingdom. With its innovative design, diverse array of species, and engaging amenities, this exhibit offers a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned zoo-goer or a first-time visitor, the Denver Zoo Elephant Passage is sure to leave a lasting impression.
References:
- CLR Design. (n.d.). Toyota Elephant Passage – CLR Design. Retrieved from https://clrdesign.com/project/denver-zoo-toyota-elephant-passage/
- Denver Zoo. (n.d.). Toyota Elephant Passage – Denver Zoo. Retrieved from https://denverzoo.org/habitat/toyota-elephant-passage/
- Denver Zoo. (n.d.). Habitats – Denver Zoo. Retrieved from https://denverzoo.org/exhibits/
- Uncaged Zoo Tours. (2022). Toyota Elephant Passage at The Denver Zoo #uncagedzootours [Video]. YouTube. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cu2UAIibTOY
- Westword. (2012). Photos: Denver Zoo’s $50M Toyota Elephant Passage opens today. Retrieved from https://www.westword.com/news/photos-denver-zoos-50m-toyota-elephant-passage-opens-today-5853316