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 MoreRetail and Attraction Adjusted Hours: Several of our retail locations and attractions will have adjusted hours on Tuesday, June 9:
Thank you for your understanding.
Giraffes: Our giraffe tower will not be viewable until after 10 a.m. on Thursday, June 11, to accommodate routine habitat work. Thank you for your understanding.
Jihad Shibley Rocky Mountain Aviary: The Jihad Shibley Rocky Mountain Aviary is temporarily closed. Thank you for your understanding.
Avian Influenza Protocols: The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza within 200 kilometres of the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo.
The health and well-being of the animals in our care remains our top priority. Out of an abundance of caution, we’re proactively implementing the following measures to protect our avian species:
Our dedicated Animal Care, Health & Welfare team will continue to monitor the situation and prioritize the health and well-being of the animals in our care. Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we work to keep the animals we all care about safe.
PETRONAS Gateway to Asia Malayan Tapir Viewing: ‘Sempurna’ and her female calf ‘Nyawa’ have daily access to either the main indoor habitat or the outdoor habitat from 9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. They’ll also have access to their behind-the-scenes space and may choose to spend time there, so viewing isn’t always guaranteed. Thank you for your understanding.
Exploration Asia
The Exploration Asia Redevelopment project is officially underway! While there are some viewing impacts in the area, you can still visit many of your favourite species.
Due to significant construction activities in and around Exploration Asia, the zoo’s West Gate will remain closed for the 2025 season and is expected to remain closed until at least 2028/2029. This necessary step supports the safe movement of visitors while we undertake exciting improvements to animal habitats and visitor experiences.
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: $525 (2 programs) $600 (3 programs)