Arctic Shores
edmonton valley zoo | edmonton, alberta | canada
Edmonton Valley Zoo is Canada’s northern-most zoo at 53° North latitude. With a long, cold winter and high energy costs, the Master Plan called for creating a more sustainable strategy for exhibits and experiences. This included refocusing the Zoo on working with animals adaptable to Edmonton’s climate, and limiting heated indoor space for visitors while maximizing radiant-heated shelters close to year-round experiences with active animals. The “Arctic Shores” exhibit was the first exhibit funded under the new Master Plan.
recognition:
CAZA Thomas R. Baines Award
The “Arctic Shores” habitat is the initial phase of the envisioned “Polar Extremes” exhibit complex that will highlight species from both polar regions.
Canada is justifiably proud of its Arctic, and the animals and people that inhabit this cold frontier. The exhibit will display Northern fur seals, Arctic foxes and Arctic ground squirrels in an
environment that allows them to effortlessly move indoors and out, choosing their own comfort level and hibernation times.
Visitors will be able to participate in training activities with the pinnipeds via a sliding door in the adjacent on-view holding building, and learn about how the Zoo cares for its animals. Additional cultural interpretation provides play and learning opportunities that give visitors insight into making a living in the North.
collaboration with:
Group2 Architects
T.A. Maranda Consultants
Biohabitats
AldrichPears Associates