Detroit Zoo Unveils New Lions Habitat

The unveiled its new lions habitat Thursday. Thanks to a $1 million makeover, the new digs have doubled in size and the moat, which surrounded the lions former home, has been filled in and replaced with a 17-foot-tall glass wall that allows visitors and the lions to be within feet of each other.

Visitors can also observe the lions from a new 5,800-square-foot viewing plaza. The six-month renovation expanded the space from 3,500 square feet to 7,500 square feet. Heated rocks have been added near the glass, with hopes that when the weather cools down the lions will use the rocks to warm up, giving visitors a closeup view. A new pond was added and a variety of grasses were planted for a more natural look.

Mike Beals of Farmington Hills likes the new exhibit. He remembers the former moat that kept the cats at a distance. “I think this gives us a better chance to see the lions up close,” he said.

According to zookeepers, lions have excellent eyesight and Beals noticed how the big cats seemed fascinated by all the people. “They look just like dogs looking out the window,” he said.

Shelby Mullins of Allen Park goes to the zoo once or twice a year. The habitat was under construction during her last visit.

“It’s a whole lot better now,” she said. “They have a lot more room.”

The Detroit Zoo is home to six lions, five of which were rescued. 

Zoo docents couldn’t get over the number of people checking out the new exhibit. There was a buzz at the gate with people rejoicing, “We hear the lions are back!”