Bear Necessities
Students will gain an understanding of bear species native to Canada. They will examine the question “how do humans impact bears?” by exploring bear adaptations, their natural habitats and behaviours, and their…
Read MorePlease be advised that the hippos will not be viewable from Tuesday, May 21, to Friday, May 24, while crews perform maintenance on their front-facing habitat. The rest of the African Savannah animals should remain viewable throughout this project. Thank you for your understanding.
Hartmann’s mountain zebras and ostriches will be off-view from May 31 until the end of the year while we complete exciting upgrades in the African Savannah Yard, including the construction of a new Savannah Barn for the animals. Our giraffe tower will continue to be viewable throughout the project. Thank you for your understanding.
The Jihad Shibley Rocky Mountain Aviary is presently closed.
Why the closure? It’s nesting season for our owls! Our great grey owls, especially the younger members of our parliament, can become protective of their nests and territory during this time.
To support their natural behaviors and prioritize safety for both our birds and visitors, we’re taking a proactive step by temporarily closing the habitat. Thank you for your understanding.
Penguin Plunge (indoor) will be closed from February 20 through to May 17, 2024, while we complete upgrades to the building’s mechanical system to ensure it is in tip-top shape for the four species that call it home. Penguins will be viewable outdoors only (weather permitting). Thank you for your understanding.
In School Program
Inspired by the novel “The One and Only Ivan” by K.A. Applegate, this program compares the life of Ivan from the story to our gorilla troop here at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo. We will be discussing themes of the book; therefore it is best if students have finished the book or movie prior to arriving for the program. We will guide students through the process of analyzing the question “what is the role of modern accredited zoos?” through initial brainstorming, thoughtful discussion, and observation of our gorilla troop and habitat.
Students should be familiar with the story of Ivan. Ideally classes have competed the novel, the short story book, or have watched the film. This program contains spoilers.
Grades: Grade 4 to 6
Length: 60 minutes
Availability: Mondays, December to February
Capacity: Up to 32 students
Cost:
Curricular Connections: