The newest polar bear habitat
New hammocks, three pools connected by a stream, a magnificent view of the bridges – this is what the new polar bear habitat has in store for you! What to expect on your next visit? All the details right here.
Aquarium du Québec
The origin of the project
The Polar Bear Habitat Enhancement Project was designed to substantially expand and renovate the facilities. This project involved diversifying the topography and increasing the space of the habitat to encourage a greater variety of natural behaviours in the bears, improve their well-being, and provide them with a better overview of the surrounding area.
The new habitat now allows bears to adopt behaviours typically observed in the wild. As a visitor, you will also have access to new angles and viewpoints as you observe the animal in a more natural setting.
In addition, the polar bear care and custody building, access to maintenance services, perimeter fencing, and training facilities have all been reviewed and improved to help staff provide safe and attentive care.
The design of the new habitat is divided into different phases to maximize the comfort of our residents and help you make the most of your experience. These phases are as follows:
The south zone
This entire section has been raised to place you at the same level as the animals so as to better check them out. The area is also characterized by the presence of the main pool, composed of salt water 12 feet deep. Through a showcase nearly 16 feet high, you will be able to observe the polar bear underwater. A stream crossing the entire new habitat, from north to south, ends its course in this pool. There are also large monoliths that let the bear hide from visitors, an opportunity that is essential for the animal's well-being.
The north zone
In the north zone, a secondary pool is located at the foot of a waterfall crafted from a cascade of real rocks. While the polar bear's natural habitat is generally devoid of large trees and logs, their use along the watercourse will add to the scenery and allow trainers to hide food for enrichment training purposes. The watercourse and natural materials will provide an intriguing environment for the bears to forage and dig in. A large covered observatory now offers a 270 degree view of the magnificent habitat. You will also have access to a bear den. This covered section provides shade for the animal, who can decide to come there for a rest. A glass partition lets you get up close and personal with the bear.
The inside zone
Indoor habitats are less frequented by visitors, with the exception of the lucky ones who will live the experience of being a wildlife guide for a day. In the case of our polar bears' new home, the number of indoor units has been doubled. Hammocks are also available to offer enrichment and comfort to the animal, who can snuggle right in for a rest. Since the expansion, a permanent biomedical training area has been included. A safety corridor for bears has been built so that they can move about safely.
To come and admire this new home and discover the fascinating world of the polar bear, book your tickets today.