The Cincinnati Zoo is gearing up to unveil its latest venture into wildlife conservation with the grand opening of the expansive Harry and Linda Fath Elephant Trek habitat. According to WLWT, this new addition, which marks the zoo's 149th year, will open its gates to the adoring public on Oct. 1.
The exhibit is quite a mammoth undertaking and is the zoo's most significant habitat project. Per the announcement, it spans several acres and promises to bring visitors up close to bull elephant Sabu and the females Anuk, SeRa, Jati, Mai Thai, and Schottzie. The habitat will also be home to two young males, Kabir and Sanjay, rounding out the herd. "Linda and I couldn’t be more thrilled to see the elephant herd thriving in their new space," said Harry Fath in a statement obtained by CityBeat, articulating the couple's joy and commitment to conservation efforts.
The habitat's design features both indoor areas at the Farmer Family Foundation Elephant Center and triple the outdoor space for these magnificent creatures to roam. Guests can look forward to the elephants and a lush walkthrough via the Komminsk Asian Waterfall Garden. This garden will lead visitors into the Elephant Trek, flaunting flora that mirrors Southeast Asian woodlands and native species that are reminiscent of Cincinnati's local biodiversity, according to CityBeat.
Meanwhile, the zoo's breeding program received a significant nod of approval earlier this year. Following a temporary stay by the bull elephant Sabu at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, two pregnancies were successfully announced, spurring hope for further success in Cincinnati, as noted by WLWT. When it comes to elephant enrichment, the habitat will not disappoint with its various elements, including swimming pools, streams, and feeding stations, cementing the zoo's dedication to providing a natural and stimulating environment for its pachyderm residents.
Before the grand public opening, Zoo members will get an exclusive sneak peek of the Elephant Trek on Sept. 27 and the weekend following. But the story doesn't end there. The zoo has grand plans for phase two of the Elephant Trek, set to launch in spring 2025. Phase two will welcome a suite of other species, from siamangs to small-clawed otters, adding yet another chapter to Cincinnati's ongoing wildlife conservation saga, according to WCPO News.
