CALGARY, June 22 /CNW/ - The Calgary Zoo is excited to announce the
official opening of the much-anticipated Elephant Crossing. This building is
the wonderful new home for the Calgary Zoo's elephant family and will present
state-of-the-art technology and learning opportunities that will enhance the
zoo visitors' experience.
"Elephant Crossing will provide the elephants with a much improved
environment and present our visitors with opportunities for outstanding
elephant encounters," says Dr. Clément Lanthier, Interim President & CEO.
With the new building, enrichment programs such as elephant bath time
will now be visible from the public gallery.
"Constructing this much-needed new home for our elephant family has
largely been made possible through the generous support of the Province of
Alberta and the Centennial Legacies Grant," Lanthier continues. "With double
the indoor habitat and triple the outdoor space, as well as improved
energy-efficiency and air quality, Elephant Crossing is overall a much better
facility for everyone."
The new indoor and outdoor amphitheatres will showcase interpretive
programs and provide animal encounters that will inspire people to protect
this fascinating endangered species.
"Opening this building means we can further enhance the care we provide
our herd of elephants," says Kevin Strange, Manager of Conservation Education
and Communications, "while at the same time dramatically improving the
educational programming we offer related to elephant conservation."
"Seeing elephants in this new building will confirm for children that
elephants are indeed an important part of their world and not just mythical
beasts in story books," Strange adds.
Media and invited guests are welcome to attend the opening ceremonies at
11 a.m. TODAY, Friday, June 22, 2007.
Elephant Crossing will open to the public at 1 p.m. today.
For further information: Laurie Herron, Media Relations Specialist,
Phone: (403) 232-9388, Cell: (403) 899-7080, laurieh@calgaryzoo.ab.ca
