The New Grizzly Ridge Exhibit

We have been anxiously awaiting the new Grizzly Ridge exhibit at the Akron Zoo for the past year. Finally, on Friday, July 19th, members of the new got a sneak preview of the new area that afternoon/evening. Members were able to come to the zoo at closing time and go to the new area and the rest of the zoo after hours. Cody came home early from work and we headed over to meet up with our friends, Stephanie and Sarah Lawrence. It was a bit hot and muggy but we had a fantastic time and the new animals and play areas did not disappoint. 

Trying to organize a group shot is never easy.

Yay, for grizzly bears!

Male bald eagle.
They have a female, too but she is harder to spot.

This new art work the kids can spin and make the eagles fly.

Big new bird aviary with awesome bouncy bridge.

We woke Hazel up early to head over to the zoo. Took her a little while to get into the whole craziness.

This bear was working on his cave or trying to destroy it. Either way.

This bear was sitting in the water right up against the glass where everyone could see him/her. Cody got some better shots but you can still tell how amazing these animals are!

I love otters!

They have a cool new slide that goes through the otter tank.
Coolest idea ever!

Sarah's favorite animal is the red wolf. This wall was telling you how to spot the difference between a red wolf and coyote.

New rock digging area and Cody's behind.

Smokin' Fez Monkey were playing live.

Morgan was very excited to see the albino black snake. I was glad they couldn't touch. Reptiles are not my favorite.

Hazel and I watched the others enjoy the carousel.

Dinnertime zoo style.

Can you tell it was hot outside?

Twinners!

Love these two.

I have no idea why the turtles were all lined up like this but it was funny watching the last turtle try to join them.

So fun having Daddy with us on an outing.

At the last minute the kids begged to see the lions before we headed home for bed.
This is what we found. The  new female pacing right in front of the glass.

Pepper was a little nervous that the cat was so close but excited.

The big male started heading over and Pepper got a lot more nervous.

Whoa.

When he looked right at her Pepper had had enough and went away.

Hazel loved it.

Another bonus was meeting Mama and Papa Berenstien  Bear on the way out of the zoo. We love watching their movies and reading their books so the kids were very excited to see them. 

We give two big thumbs up to the addition to our beloved zoo! I feel very lucky to have this zoo so close to our home for our children to enjoy while their little.