Denver Zoo’s Harmony Hill is a unique and immersive exhibit that showcases the importance of coexisting with wildlife. As a zoo touring enthusiast, you’ll be captivated by the intricate details and natural habitats that make this exhibit a must-see destination.
Animals in Harmony Hill
Harmony Hill is home to two distinct animal residents, each with their own fascinating stories.
Grizzly Bear: Tundra
The star of the exhibit is Tundra, a rescued grizzly bear who was orphaned in Alaska and came to the Denver Zoo in 2002. Visitors can observe Tundra’s natural behaviors, such as climbing, digging, and den-building, in the carefully designed habitat.
Leucistic Raccoons: Pecan and Cashew
Sharing the “backyard” side of Harmony Hill are Pecan and Cashew, two leucistic raccoons. These unique raccoons were rescued from a home in Boulder and now call the Denver Zoo their permanent home.
Purpose of Harmony Hill
The primary purpose of Harmony Hill is to educate visitors on the importance of coexisting with wildlife, both in the wild and in their own backyards. The exhibit aims to inspire guests to take actions that discourage wildlife from entering human areas, such as removing birdfeeders and securing pet food.
Unique Features of Harmony Hill
Harmony Hill offers a truly immersive and interactive experience for visitors.
Divided Habitat Design
The exhibit is divided into two distinct areas: Harmony Hill State Park and Harmony Hill Neighborhood. The State Park section mimics a camping and hiking experience, while the Neighborhood section replicates a backyard setting, allowing visitors to see how wildlife can thrive in both natural and urban environments.
Training Wall
One of the unique features of Harmony Hill is the “working wall,” where animal care staff conduct daily training sessions with Tundra. This provides mental and physical stimulation for the bear, and allows visitors to observe the training process.
Natural Behaviors
The habitat is designed to allow the bears and raccoons to exhibit their natural behaviors, such as climbing, digging, and den-building. This helps to ensure the animals’ well-being and provides an authentic experience for visitors.
Interactive Elements
Harmony Hill offers various interactive elements that allow visitors to observe the animals up close. This includes a den where the bears often come close to the glass, providing an intimate and engaging encounter.
Visitor Information
Location and Hours
Harmony Hill is located on the east side of the Denver Zoo, next to the giraffe habitat. The exhibit is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Daily Talks and Demonstrations
Visitors can attend daily talks and demonstrations with animal care experts to learn more about the bears and raccoons, as well as how to help keep wildlife wild.
Additional Resources
For more information on Harmony Hill and the Denver Zoo, be sure to check out the following resources:
As a zoo touring enthusiast, Harmony Hill at the Denver Zoo is a must-visit destination. With its unique design, interactive elements, and educational focus, this exhibit offers a truly immersive and memorable experience for all who explore it.
References:
– Denver Zoo Harmony Hill
– Denver Zoo Blog: Harmony Hill
– Denver Zoo Legacy