The Calgary Zoo Wild Canada Redevelopment transforms a major public space into an immersive landscape that prioritizes animal welfare, conservation education, and meaningful visitor engagement. Designed and delivered through an Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) process, the project re‑imagines Wild Canada as a sequence of iconic Canadian ecosystems, inviting visitors into the animals’ world rather than observing it from a distance. The arrival experience sets the tone with a dramatic interpretation of the aurora borealis, reinforcing the Zoo’s commitment to stewardship, education, and emotional connection to the natural world.
The redevelopment features larger, more complex habitats for species including polar bears, caribou, wolves, otters, bighorn sheep, muskox, and whooping cranes—exceeding traditional animal welfare standards by supporting choice, autonomy, and natural behaviours. Seven distinct Canadian landscapes are enriched through integrated art and Indigenous perspectives, with contributions from more than 20 artists creating moments of reflection, play, and learning throughout the visitor journey. Thoughtful attention to accessibility, intuitive circulation, and immersive viewing solutions ensures an inclusive, one‑way experience that balances public engagement with the highest standards of care.