Delivered in collaboration with Zoological Design Advisors Jones & Jones Architects + Landscape Architects, the project includes two habitat areas designed to mimic the natural rainforest environment and celebrate their arboreal (tree dwelling) behaviours. Habitat 1 is a 12,000 square foot outdoor space connected to the existing IndoMalaya Pavilion, complete with climbing structures, hills, streams and towers. Guests can meander along the immersive path taking in diverse vantages, including a tree house view of the arboreal platforms at eye level. The Orangutans can enter a chute directly from the indoor pavilion bringing them to the tallest poles in the project. From here, the Orangutans will be able to traverse between the poles directly above a pedestrian pathway, taking them to Habitat 2 near the existing Indian Rhino Pavilion.

The new Outdoor Habitat will enrich the lives of the Orangutans, stimulating their physical, social and intellectual needs. The project will also bring awareness to these Critically Endangered species who are facing extinction due to the rapid deforestation of their natural habitat.

Shoring pile drilling is underway and caisson drilling for the structure is next. Stay tuned for construction progress, and visit the Toronto Zoo Wildlife Conservancy for more details on the Zoo’s conservation efforts and project fundraising.