Zagreb Zoo

Location in the zoo
In the location of current bear, lynx, pelican enclosures and wetland birds pavilion.

The project timetable
Work on the project will start in 2011 and will be completed in sections. The project is expacted to be completed in 2013.

Project description
The new enclosure which will have surface area of 1400 m2 will include the main outdoor enclosure, the extra outdoor enclosure and the indoor „den“ enclosures.

The main outdoor enclosure will be located in the area of current bear enclosure, the green space in front of the lion pavilion and pelican enclosure. The fence will be a wire mesh, glass and a big water ditch which is in use by pelicans today. Parts of the current concrete bear enclosure will be used as a foundation for creation of fake rocks, and the rest of the area will be covered by dirt and plants will be planted. Bears will have tree logs, natural rocks, wooden plateau, and climbers to enrich their habitat. There will be a creek running through the enclosure and a waterfall.

The backup enclosure will be sigificantly smaller than the main enclosure, but will be almost identicaly arranged, except there won't be a water ditch. This enclosure will be used to seperate the male when the female has cubs. Both enclosures will be connected via special automatic door.

Animals

- EUROPEAN BROWN BEAR ()

Plants
In the enclosure and around it various species of ferns will be planted along with tall and short bushes, grasses and short trees to mimic the forest vegetation of European continental area. Portion of plants outside the enclosure will be labeled with signs containing basic information about the species.

Educational content for the visitors
Next to the outside enclosure there will be informational boards explaining the life cycle of a bear. Current pavilion for wetland birds will be remodeled into an info centre about conservation and protection of bears in Croatia and the world. The info centre will also serve for workshops and education. aditional content for visitors In the info centre there will be space for relaxation that also allows for observation of bears and education.

Reasons for the project
- Adjustment with the standards of keeping animals according to European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA)
- Considerable better quality housing for bears with a bigger living space.
- Better and safer work conditions with the animals.