The Calgary Zoo officially opened its new Asian Highlands habitat on Wednesday, unveiling three Himalayan-inspired enclosures that reintroduce snow leopards and red pandas while welcoming two Sichuan takins, a rare mountain species native to the Eastern Himalayas. The expansion is part of the zoo’s broader effort to enhance animal welfare and visitor experience.

The Sichuan takins, often described as resembling a cross between a goat and an antelope, are well adapted to cold mountain climates with their dense, waterproof coats. The zoo’s new habitat aims to replicate the high-altitude slopes these animals inhabit, providing them with terrain that allows natural behaviours and ample space to thrive. Kyle Burks, president and CEO of the Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo, emphasized that the enclosures are designed to give the animals greater control over their surroundings and promote their well-being.

In addition to the takin habitat, the Asian Highlands includes an expanded area for snow leopards known as the Kingdon Snow Leopard Ridge. This redesigned space offers interconnected zones that allow the elusive big cats more room for climbing and roaming. New viewing platforms also provide visitors with closer and more engaging encounters with the animals. David Kingdon, a donor whose support helped make the project possible, expressed enthusiasm for the zoo’s commitment to animal-centred design and conservation.

Red pandas, another popular species at the zoo, have been relocated to a larger enclosure adjacent to the takins. Their new habitat features climbing structures and overhead pathways that reflect the forest canopies they navigate in the wild. Ward 4 Councillor and Calgary deputy mayor DJ Kelly highlighted the draw of red pandas to both local residents and international visitors, noting their role in educating the public about wildlife conservation and habitat preservation.

Asian Highlands is the first phase of the Calgary Zoo’s Imagine Asia redevelopment plan, which will gradually transform the former Exploration Asia area into a series of immersive environments representing diverse Asian ecosystems. Burks indicated that further updates and expansions are forthcoming as the zoo approaches its 100th anniversary in 2029. The project aims not only to enhance animal care and exhibit authenticity but also to foster awareness of conservation challenges facing these species in the wild.