Summer 2024 Muskox and Orphaned Moose Calf Habitat Expansion

We are excited to announce an expansion for the musox herd and orphaned moose calf habitats at the Alaska Zoo in the summer of 2024. The zoo muskox herd is currently living in an area which is adequate but small in comparison to what other facilities offer this species. The current orphaned moose area (infirmary outdoor pen) is also small for the number of moose calves we have been receiving each year over the past several years. This habitat expansion will allow these animals much needed space, more access to natural grasses and better movement over natural terrain for foot health. The infirmary pens will become temporary housing again for animals under veterinary observation and active treatment. The expanded area for the muskox will include a shift area and squeeze chute for safety and health management. The new fencing for the muskox expansion will also include a shift and squeeze chute area. These features will allow better veterinary care for the muskox herd in a squeeze area which is a standard feature of most habitats for large ungulates. 

In addition to meeting the needs of the animals, we are committed to offering new visitor experiences. This habitat expansion will include a new zoo trail which will extend across the area, bisecting the two habitats. The trail will begin by the wolverine habitat and extend across directly to the coffee shop area. This trail will offer improved viewing as well as a direct route to the coffee shop and lawn, a convenience for visitors with easier accessibility by wheelchair from the zoo entrance. Interpretive signs will also be added along this trail.

This expansion is already in motion as we plan and gather building materials. The new fencing and trail will be in place in time for the zoo's annual fundraising gala Champions of the Wild. This event will be held on the zoo lawn on Thursday, June 27th, 2024. This trail will be completed in time for the Champions of the Wild Gala to be held on the zoo lawn on June 27th, 2024.

To help defray project costs, we are looking to raise a total of $75,000 for this expansion through donations from individuals and businesses. We will also be dedicating the funds raised at the 2024 Champions of the Wild event to this expansion. Funds donated over $75,000 for this project will be allocated to the Alaska Zoo's General Fund for zoo operations. We hope we can count on your financial support. Thank you!