Will this exhibit only be used for American Black Bears? Such a waste of space for a common species. I know a return of Polar Bears aren't in the cards right now, but why not bring back Spectacled Bears or add Sloth Bears, two less common and more interesting species that need more holders?
@SusScrofa Well for one, I don't see Spectacled or sloth bears going so well geographically alongside sea otters. You could argue sea otters don't need to be included but the design of the old polar bear underwater viewing (added in 2000) is perfect for them, and therefore the zoo only had to make minimal changes and save costs. Plus, that means more space for rescued bears and otters.
Two, and I can only make a guess because it's only been briefly mentioned once by the zoo... The shift towards a North America theme on Bear Hill may one day align with the current Rhino Reserve area, which is the rumored site of a future Polar bear/sea lion complex - two species that are sorely missed. If paths are slightly rearranged, this future polar bear area, Black Bear Ridge / Sea Otter Coast, existing Wolf Woods, and another Mexican wolf display in the works could become one large exhibit area.
@Moebelle I suppose that makes sense if they are planning on connecting Wolf Woods and creating an entire NA complex. Although honestly I would prefer even Grizzly Bears over ABBs, they'd be a better fit for a coastal Pacific theme with the Sea Otters better and are more interesting imo.
@SusScrofa I definitely would prefer grizzlies too, I'm guessing space was a factor. I say that but coincidentally St. Louis's Grizzly Ridge is almost the exact same size and shape as this.
