Brookfield Zoo will debut 3-acre primate habitat – Riverside-Brookfield Landmark

Brookfield Zoo Launches James & Elizabeth Bramsen Tropical Forests Habitat

Introduction to the New Habitat

Brookfield Zoo in Chicago is set to open a new three-acre outdoor habitat for primates on July 11. Named the James & Elizabeth Bramsen Tropical Forests, this habitat immerses visitors in lush rainforest environments, featuring free-roaming gorillas, orangutans, and various monkey species.

Features of the Habitat

1. Gorilla Conservation Center:
   • Indoor facility educating visitors on the challenges faced by wild gorillas.
   • Interactive exploration stations allowing guests to:
   • Compare their strength to that of primates through tug-of-war activities.
   • Learn about gorilla social behaviors.
   • Observe animals similarly to field researchers.
   • Life-sized bronze sculpture of a gorilla’s nose, demonstrating how scientists identify wild gorillas by unique nasal patterns.
2. Pollinator Garden:
   • Educational space highlighting the role of bees in sustaining life and supporting plant reproduction, essential for human food sources.

Connection to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• SDG 15: Life on Land – The habitat promotes conservation and awareness of endangered primate species, contributing to the protection of terrestrial ecosystems.
• SDG 13: Climate Action – By educating visitors on rainforest environments and biodiversity, the zoo fosters understanding of climate impacts on wildlife habitats.
• SDG 4: Quality Education – Interactive and hands-on learning stations provide quality education on wildlife conservation and ecological balance.
• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – The pollinator garden emphasizes the importance of pollinators in food production, encouraging sustainable practices.

Access and Community Engagement

• Tickets with specific entry times are required for habitat access.
• Admission is free with zoo membership or general admission ticket purchase.
• Grand opening celebration scheduled for July 11-13, featuring:
• Live music.
• Family-friendly activities.
• Opportunities to meet animal ambassadors.

Additional Developments

• Reopening of the renovated indoor primate habitat, Tropic World, on July 11.
• New entry designed to resemble a fallen log, leading visitors beneath a 48-foot waterfall.

Leadership Statement

Mike Adkesson, President and CEO of Brookfield Zoo, stated: “This extraordinary space not only provides an incredibly dynamic and enriching environment for the animals in our care but also inspires guests to understand and protect some of the most endangered species on the planet.”

Recognition and Naming

The habitat honors James and Elizabeth Bramsen, members of the zoo’s governing boards, acknowledging their longstanding commitment and generosity in supporting the zoo’s mission.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 15: Life on Land – The article focuses on wildlife conservation, specifically primates such as gorillas and orangutans, and their natural habitats.
2. SDG 4: Quality Education – The zoo’s educational initiatives, including hands-on exploration stations and learning about gorilla conservation, contribute to quality education.
3. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – The pollinator garden educates visitors on the role of bees in sustaining plant life, indirectly promoting sustainable ecosystems and responsible environmental awareness.
4. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – The development of the habitat enhances community engagement and promotes sustainable urban green spaces.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Target 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services.
   • Target 15.5: Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats and halt the loss of biodiversity.
2. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • Target 4.7: By 2030, ensure that all learners acquire knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including through education for sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles.
3. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • Target 12.8: By 2030, ensure that people everywhere have the relevant information and awareness for sustainable development and lifestyles in harmony with nature.
4. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Target 11.7: By 2030, provide universal access to safe, inclusive and accessible, green and public spaces.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. SDG 15 Indicators
   • Indicator 15.1.1: Forest area as a proportion of total land area – implied by the creation of a three-acre tropical forest habitat.
   • Indicator 15.5.1: Red List Index – implied through the focus on endangered species such as gorillas and orangutans.
2. SDG 4 Indicators
   • Indicator 4.7.1: Extent to which education for sustainable development is mainstreamed at all levels – implied by the educational programs and interactive stations at the zoo.
3. SDG 12 Indicators
   • Indicator 12.8.1: Extent to which people are aware of sustainable development and lifestyles – implied by the pollinator garden and educational content about bees and sustainability.
4. SDG 11 Indicators
   • Indicator 11.7.1: Average share of the built-up area of cities that is open space for public use – implied by the development of new green public spaces within the zoo.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: rblandmark.com