31 MARCH 2026\u00a0(Calgary, AB) \u2013The Wilder Institute\/Calgary Zoo is revealing Imagine Asia, a bold new name and look for a major destination area. Phase one of this multi-year redevelopment, Asian Highlands, opens this summer.<\/p>\n
Formerly Exploration Asia, Imagine Asia introduces a fresh look inspired by the region\u2019s diverse landscapes and wildlife. Vivid\u00a0colours\u00a0and layered illustrations create a sense of discovery at every turn, bringing renovated habitats and immersive experiences to life.<\/p>\n
\u201cImagine Asia is the next step in our transformation of Exploration Asia \u2014 a new name and identity that reflects the scale and sense of discovery we\u2019re building into the space,\u201d said Dr. Kyle Burks, President & CEO of the Wilder Institute\/Calgary Zoo. \u201cThis summer, guests will experience that vision firsthand with the opening of Asian Highlands.\u201d<\/p>\n
ASIAN\u00a0HIGHLANDS:\u00a0Life at the Edge of the Sky<\/p>\n
Imagine\u00a0a winding pathway beneath a forest canopy, alive with sound and movement. Red pandas climb overhead, while snow leopards traverse rocky terrain in the distance. This is\u00a0Asian Highlands, the first phase of the Imagine Asia redevelopment, opening in July 2026.<\/p>\n
Returning\u00a0favourites\u00a0and a new species, set to be announced later this spring,\u00a0bring\u00a0the iconic landscape of the Eastern Himalayas to life \u2014 sparking curiosity and connection while prioritizing world-class animal care.<\/p>\n
\u201cAsian Highlands is designed with the welfare and wellbeing of every animal at its heart,\u201d said Colleen Baird, Director, Animal Care, Health & Welfare. \u201cGuests will see animals exploring new, enriched habitats while learning about the incredible species that call Asia home.\u00a0These transformations are made possible thanks to the support of our community and donors, whose generosity helps us create exceptional spaces for animals and meaningful experiences for guests.\u201d<\/p>\n
What\u2019s Next<\/p>\n
Construction in\u00a0Imagine Asia\u00a0has resumed,\u00a0and\u00a0Asian Highlands\u00a0remains\u00a0on track for a grand opening in July 2026. While some areas may have limited viewing during\u00a0construction, guests can still enjoy\u00a0favourites\u00a0such as Bactrian camels, Komodo dragons, white-handed gibbons, Malayan tapirs, red-crowned cranes,\u00a0Turkmenian\u00a0markhors, Amur tigers,\u00a0Dalmatian pelicans,\u00a0and Pallas\u2019s cats.<\/p>\n
Stay tuned to the zoo\u2019s website and social media channels for the latest construction updates and announcements leading up to the\u00a0phase one\u00a0opening of Asian Highlands.<\/p>\n
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