The AquaZoo animal park in Leeuwarden is creating a new area that will be entirely dedicated to North American nature and animals.
The new area will be located in the western part of the park where the polar bears now live. The area is named after the Churchill, which refers to the 1,600 kilometer long river in northern Canada.
Canadian otters will have a new home, and Aquazoo noted that raccoons will return, along with many other animal species. The zoo has not yet announced which ones they will be. Construction is expected to be completed next spring. The park will have a Christmas tree planting area that can be donated by private individuals.
Climate change
AquaZoo focuses on education about climate change. Park manager Jeroen Lumijer wants to point out the consequences to visitors, “by telling the story of polar bears and other animals from North America.” For example, polar bears are increasingly found in populated areas because food becomes more difficult to obtain as temperatures rise.
Second alignment
This is the second major renovation at the park in as many years. In April last year, AquaZoo welcomed two Amur tigers to its newly constructed half-acre enclosure. Four cubs have already been born.
The polar bear capital of the world
Churchill, a small Canadian town, lies in between Hundreds of polar bears can be seen in July and November. They can wait there until the bay freezes over and hunt for seals again. Lumiger: “Polar bears are often on the prowl, so Churchill residents don’t lock their cars on purpose. For example, pedestrians who run into a polar bear can always hide in the car.”
