(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (CMZoo) is making big progress on the construction of the new giraffe enclosure, with crews working hard to stay on track for the scheduled 2026 opening.
According to CMZoo, the International Center for the Care and Conservation of Giraffe enclosure will increase the herd’s outdoor space by 25% and expand the indoor space with a 12,000-square-foot giraffe barn. The $40 million project is being funded through CMZoo revenue and donations.
The current African Rift Valley habitat was built more than 20 years ago, during which time giraffe professionals have gained extensive knowledge about providing world-class care. CMZoo is now recognized as a leader in the professional field of giraffe care, and this enclosure will reflect that reputation. The Giraffe Center will connect giraffe experts and expand educational programs to improve and enrich the lives of giraffes in human care.
The new enclosure will give the giraffe many new choices about where they eat, interact with guests, or have quiet time to themselves. The new barn and gift shop will have a clear roof that lets in sunlight and is hail and fire-resistant…