Watch CBS News

Brookfield Zoo expanding space for apes and monkeys

CBS News Live
CBS News Chicago Live

CHICAGO (CBS)-- The Brookfield Zoo is expanding space for the apes and monkeys and you won't want to miss the new viewing experience. 

The two-story glass window will allow guests to watch the animals explore the four new outdoor areas. 

exterior-orangutan-viewing-rendering.jpg

The new 2-acre space will feature both outdoor and indoor spaces for two gorilla troops and outdoor areas for orangutans and several species of South American monkeys. 

Officials said the habitats will have running water, climbing structures, grasses and vines along with 75 new trees, 500 shrubs, and several pollinator gardens that will be planted. 

interior-gorilla-viewing-rendering.jpg

In addition, the expansion includes a Gorilla Conservation Center with a learning space. Brookfield Zoo officials said this is a dedicated home for the Chicago Zoological Society's King Conservation Leadership Academy, "in which high-school age students participate in science programming with an emphasis on career and college readiness."

Zoo officials said the project will be completed in 2025. Groundbreaking will take place this fall. 

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.