It’s unbearable.
Starting this week, the Philadelphia Zoo is preparing to build its largest exhibit in more than a decade, renovating and developing Bear Country.
Here’s what visitors need to know.
What will the project include?
In addition to a new ‘see-through exploration trail’ – part of their larger Zoo360 trail system – and additional habitats for breeding and raising bear cubs, the renovations also include installing new landscaping, water features and glass viewing areas for visitors to come face to face. with the bears,” the press release said.
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Other additions include “enhanced structural designs” for the safety and well-being of animal keepers at the zoo, including a remodeled kitchen and office space, a new camera system and an improved pool infiltration system, according to marketing director Patrick McMaster.
“This state-of-the-art exhibit will not only transform our campus and provide our guests with brand new ways to see and interact with our bears…but it will also enhance the conservation work we can do to protect endangered bears around the world,” President and CEO of Philadelphia Zoo, Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman, said in a statement.
What will happen to the bears?
The zoo is currently home to three bears: the Andean bear Sinchi and the sloth bears Bhalu and Kayla – all of which will move to other facilities recognized by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
While Bhalu and Kayla will return to the Philadelphia Zoo upon completion of the project, Sinchi, already paired with a partner, will live at another zoo.
Bhalu and Kayla previously welcomed two male twin cubs, Kelce and Harper – named after former Philadelphia Eagle Jason Kelce and current Philadelphia Phillies player Bryce Harper, respectively – in early 2023.
Kelce and Harper, the first bear cubs born at the Philadelphia Zoo in more than three decades, were later moved to the Lee Richardson Zoo in Kansas, as announced by the zoo last spring.
Other animals that will be temporarily moved to similar facilities during construction include the zoo’s Humboldt penguins and flamingos, the latter of which will live in a habitat just south of the McNeil Avian Center.
Plans for a new flamingo exhibition have not yet been announced.
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How has Philadelphia responded?
Many leaders, both in the state of Pennsylvania and the City of Brotherly Love, have expressed their excitement about Bear Country’s renovations.
“The zoo is more than just a destination for all families – it is a safe place, but also an educational and inspiring place that brings people together and encourages them to act on behalf of nature,” said Cherelle L. Parker, mayor of Philadelphia. a statement. “We are proud to support this updated exhibit at our Philadelphia Zoo, and we are excited for people across the city and region to experience it.”
Governor Josh Shapiro said the zoo is “an exciting place for Pennsylvanians and visitors alike” – and a great opportunity to learn more about wildlife around the world.
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“When the eyes of the world turn to Philadelphia in 2026, our Commonwealth will be ready to welcome millions of visitors,” Shapiro said in a statement. “And with this new exhibit, major cultural institutions like the zoo will play an important role in helping visitors understand that Pennsylvania is a place worth returning to again and again.”
When will construction start?
Construction on the $20 million project – including a $5 million contribution from the WP Carey Foundation and further support from the City of Philadelphia – will begin in 2025 and debut the following year.
Olivia Montes covers the impact of state government and the community for Delaware Online/The News Journal. Reach her at omontes@delawareonline.com.
This article originally appeared in Delaware News Journal: New bear country exhibit planned for Philadelphia Zoo
