The Denver Zoo’s Predator Ridge is a captivating five-acre habitat that showcases the charismatic predator species of Africa’s Samburu region, with a focus on African lions and spotted hyenas. This immersive exhibit aims to replicate the diverse landscapes of the African savanna, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent animals in a naturalistic setting.

Unveiling the Predator Ridge Experience

Predator Ridge is designed to offer visitors an up-close and personal encounter with the zoo’s apex predators. The exhibit features several key elements that contribute to its immersive and educational experience.

Pahali ya Simba: The Lion’s Lair

One of the standout features of Predator Ridge is the Pahali ya Simba, an indoor viewing area that allows visitors to get mere inches away from the majestic African lions. This intimate encounter provides a rare glimpse into the daily lives of these powerful felines, as they rest, play, and interact with one another.

Pahali ya Mwana: The Nursery

The Pahali ya Mwana, or the maternity yard, offers a tender and exclusive look into the lives of the zoo’s young lions. Visitors can observe the lioness and her cubs as they bond, nurse, and explore their surroundings, providing a unique opportunity to witness the nurturing side of these apex predators.

Rotational Yards: Exploring the Savanna

The lions and spotted hyenas at Predator Ridge move among a series of rotational yards, each offering a different environment that replicates the diverse landscapes of the African savanna. This dynamic setup allows the animals to experience a variety of habitats, mirroring their natural behaviors and interactions in the wild.

Award-Winning Design

Predator Ridge has received widespread recognition for its dedication to animal care and visitor engagement. In 2015, the exhibit was awarded the Top Honors Exhibit Award from the American Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), a testament to the Denver Zoo’s commitment to providing an exceptional experience for both the animals and the visitors.

Immersive Experiences at Predator Ridge

In addition to the captivating exhibit, the Denver Zoo offers several opportunities for visitors to engage with the animals and learn more about their behaviors and conservation.

Up-Close Look Program

The Up-Close Look program at Predator Ridge provides a unique opportunity for visitors to get an intimate encounter with the spotted hyenas or African lions. For a fee of $200 for a group of up to six people, participants can enjoy a 30-minute meet-and-greet with these charismatic predators, guided by the zoo’s knowledgeable staff.

Predator Ridge Demonstrations

The Denver Zoo also offers daily Predator Ridge Demonstrations, where visitors can learn more about the animals and their behaviors. These educational presentations, held at 12:00 p.m., have been temporarily suspended due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, but are expected to resume in the future.

Accessibility and Considerations

Predator Ridge is designed to be accessible to visitors, with limited access for service animals. However, it’s important to note that the exhibit may not be suitable for all visitors, particularly those with sensitivities to loud noises or close encounters with large predators.

Before planning your visit, it’s recommended to contact the Denver Zoo at 720-337-1400 to confirm the accessibility and any current restrictions or modifications to the Predator Ridge experience.

Conclusion

The Denver Zoo’s Predator Ridge is a captivating and immersive exhibit that offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the power and grace of Africa’s apex predators. From the intimate encounters at the Pahali ya Simba to the tender glimpses of the Pahali ya Mwana, this exhibit provides a truly unforgettable experience for zoo enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Whether you’re interested in the award-winning design, the interactive demonstrations, or the exclusive Up-Close Look program, Predator Ridge is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the wonders of the Denver Zoo.

References:

• Denver Zoo. (n.d.). Habitats – Denver Zoo. Retrieved from https://denverzoo.org/exhibits/
• Denver Zoo. (n.d.). Predator Ridge – Denver Zoo. Retrieved from https://denverzoo.org/habitat/predator-ridge/
• ZooChat. (2009). Predator Ridge – Lion Exhibit – ZooChat. Retrieved from https://www.zoochat.com/community/media/predator-ridge-lion-exhibit.50475/
• Denver Zoo. (n.d.). Up Close Look: Predator Ridge – Denver Zoo. Retrieved from https://denverzoo.org/up-close-look-predator-ridge/
• ECOS Communications. (n.d.). Predator Ridge – ECOS Communications. Retrieved from https://ecos.us/item/predator-ridge/