THE WORLD'S LARGEST POLAR BEAR EXHIBIT OPENS AT THE DETROIT ZOO

BACKGROUND:

Royal Oak, Michigan- October 20, 2001 marked the opening date of the Detroit Zoo's Arctic Ring of Life. At 4.2 acres, it's the world's largest polar bear exhibit. The Arctic Ring of Life features the only Polar Passage, a 70-ft long clear tunnel in which visitors can get closer to diving and swimming polar bears and seals than anywhere else on earth.

In addition to seven polar bears, the exhibit also is home to several other Arctic animals including four Arctic foxes, two snowy owls, four harbor seals, one rescued Grey seal, and one rescued Harp seal.

The Arctic Ring of life simulates the environment in which the animals live in the wild. The exhibit includes 300,000 gallons of chilled salt water (rather than fresh water), ice machines that will make 1,800 lb. blocks of ice, and cooling pads throughout the exhibit to keep the animals cool during Michigan summers.

Visitors can take a simulated trek to the North Pole through the tundra, open sea and pack ice of the Arctic environment, and see the animals that are uniquely adapted to the life there. The exhibit also explores the relationship between Arctic people (Inuit) and wild life. Detroit Zoological Institute Director, Ron Kagan states, "Our goal of the Arctic Ring of Life is to excite and educate the public about animals and Arctic ecosystems in a unique way. Both the Arctic wildlife and the people have adapted in unusual ways in this extreme and amazing landscape. This expansive and dynamic exhibit will provide a stimulating experience for the animals as well."

INTERVIEW INCLUDES:

• Ron Kagan, Detroit Zoological Institute Director
• Scott Carter, Curator of Mammals at the Detroit Zoo

B-ROLL INCLUDES:

• Polar Bears swimming in their new environment
• Views from the 70-ft tunnel
• Children touring the exhibit
• Shots of other arctic wildlife

Video Provided By: Detroit Zoological Institute