POWELL, Ohio (WCMH) — The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is revealing details about the massive makeover it is giving to its North America region.
The upgraded area, called North America Trek is a reimagining of the exhibits that promises to prioritize the animals’ welfare. On the zoo’s website, changes such as “natural landscapes, modernized habitats, and sustainable elements,” were noted.
Visitors are promised an immersive experience with “river otters playfully swimming, black bears exploring their spacious habitat, bald eagles soaring overhead, and Mexican wolves roaming an incredible new habitat,” according to the zoo. The park said guests will travel paths with native plants and updated signage will guide them through special encounters with the animals.
Rendering of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s future bald eagle habitat. Courtesy/ Columbus Zoo and Aquarium 
Rendering of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s future North America river otter habitat. Courtesy/ Columbus Zoo and Aquarium 
Rendering of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s future Mexican wolf habitat. Courtesy/ Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
The first phase includes new habitats for:
- Mexican wolves
- Bald eagles
- Black bears
- North American river otters
- Songbirds
- Trumpeter swans
Additionally, the new Ohio Center for Wildlife Conservation, a modern facility for research and education, will be launched.
“We are thrilled and proud to partner with the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium on this amazing project that will highlight the great conservation work being done right here in Ohio,” said Ohio Department of Natural Resources Director Mary Mertz. “I’m excited to see everything this place will offer visitors and families who want to learn more about the natural world around them.”
The area is slated to open this summer, but the zoo did not give a specific date. The construction has been ongoing since October 2023 and the organization said it represented an investment of $35 million.
