The highly anticipated North America Trek exhibit at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has hit a snag, prompting a delay in its grand opening. Originally scheduled for May 23, the new section of the zoo promises to bring visitors up close and personal with a variety of North American wildlife. According to a statement obtained by The Dispatch, the setback was caused by both an accidental crack in a black bear habitat window by construction crews and the ripple effects of prolonged inclement weather this season.
Even though Stevie the black bear hasn't yet moved to his new home, safety protocols were promptly in action, putting the opening plans on hold. On top of the construction mishap, the Columbus Zoo highlighted the importance of animal welfare as a key consideration in the decision-making process. "Animals follow nature’s timeline—not ours—and we take our cues from them. Delaying the opening allows each species the time and space needed to fully acclimate to their new habitats—an essential step for their comfort, health, and long-term success," the Zoo asserted in a statement reported by NBC4i.
While the setback has undoubtedly ruffled some feathers, the impending attraction is set to showcase a range of animals, including Mexican wolves, bald eagles, black bears, North American river otters, songbirds, and trumpeter swans. The zoo's commitment to the well-being of these animals has been unwavering, despite facing unforeseen challenges in the process. As stated by The Dispatch, Jen Fields, the zoo's director of communications, emphasized the lack of animal safety concerns stemming from the incident with the cracked viewing window.
Meanwhile, as visitors eagerly await the chance to engage with native wildlife, with the additional consideration of persistent rain from December to May being part of the delay equation, the zoo reassures that a new opening date will be communicated in due time. "Through those conversations, one priority rose to the top: giving the animals the time they need to acclimate to their new habitats," communicated a statement obtained by 10TV.
