PROJECTS 

Project Carnivora

VZDS Cost Share: $2.5 million
Total Project Budget: $8 million
Project Start Date: June 2026
Estimated Completion: August 2027

Project Carnivora marks a defining moment in the evolution of the Edmonton Valley Zoo. Anchored by two iconic carnivore species — the Canadian lynx and the snow leopard — this initiative is transforming life for some of the zoo’s most charismatic residents while introducing a new generation of premier spaces that elevate the guest experience from the moment visitors arrive.

Positioned at the front of the zoo, these naturalized habitats will be among the first experiences guests encounter, immediately setting a tone of curiosity, conservation, and connection. Thoughtfully designed to mirror the wild landscapes these elusive carnivores call home, the habitats provide the highest standards of care and welfare while creating powerful opportunities for guests to observe, learn about, and connect with species that are notoriously difficult to spot in the wild.

These immersive environments will feature clear zoo-mesh views, bird-friendly glass, and enriching landscapes that exceed modern zoological standards, offering year-round comfort through heated shelters, shaded platforms, and naturalistic spaces to explore. For visitors, the upgrades mean barrier-free sightlines, seasonally adaptable viewing areas, and new training walls where they can watch animal care in action — creating memorable, inspiring moments that deepen understanding of carnivore conservation and the vital role zoos play in protecting wildlife.

The Canadian Lynx Habitat

Silent and elusive, the Canadian lynx is an iconic symbol of Canadian forests. With thick fur, oversized, snowshoe-like paws, and a compact body structure, the lynx is perfectly adapted to life in the north. This keystone predator helps maintain healthy ecosystems by balancing prey populations and supporting forest resilience. Project Carnivora places this remarkable species front and centre, celebrating an animal that is both uniquely Canadian and essential to the landscapes we call home.

Positioned at the Zoo’s front gates, the new Canadian lynx habitat serves as a powerful welcome, immediately connecting guests to Canada’s wild heritage. Inspired by the forested and mountainous environments where lynx thrive, this project expands the current habitat from 300 m² to 550 m², offering significantly more space for exploration, movement, and natural behaviour. The landscape features a carefully curated mix of native vegetation, with approximately 75% native grasses and 25% shrubs, creating a setting that reflects the lynx’s natural range while supporting animal well-being.

Natural boulders, a newly introduced water feature, and dedicated enrichment facilitation areas encourage climbing, resting, stalking, and play, allowing guests to observe the lynx’s unique adaptations and behaviours up close. A 4.5-metre-high mesh enclosure, supported by durable galvanized steel posts, ensures both safety and openness, while increased viewing access offers clearer, more immersive sightlines throughout the habitat.

Together, these elements create more than a habitat; they create an experience. One that invites curiosity, deepens understanding, and fosters a meaningful connection to one of Canada’s most iconic carnivores and the vital role it plays in healthy ecosystems.

The Snow Leopard Habitat

Built for life amongst the cliffs and peaks of Central Asia, the snow leopard is one of the planet’s most elusive and awe-inspiring big cats. Often referred to as the “ghost of the mountains,” this remarkable predator plays a vital role in maintaining balance within fragile, high-altitude ecosystems. As a Vulnerable species, the snow leopard embodies the beauty and precariousness of these remote landscapes and offers a powerful opportunity to inspire action for wildlife conservation.

Inspired by the rugged terrain of the snow leopard’s native range, this immersive habitat invites guests into the world of a species few people will ever see in the wild. Spanning 930 m², the space has been thoughtfully designed to reflect the rocky, open environments of Central Asia, with a landscape composed of 75% native grasses and 25% shrubs. Natural boulders, a new water feature, and dedicated enrichment facilitation areas encourage climbing, exploration, and resting behaviours that showcase the snow leopard’s incredible agility and strength.

Increased viewing access and a 4.5-metre-high mesh enclosure, supported by galvanized steel posts, provide clear, engaging sightlines while maintaining a secure and spacious environment for the animals. Every element of the habitat is designed to support animal care while creating meaningful and memorable encounters for visitors.

As a proud partner of the Snow Leopard Trust, the Edmonton Valley Zoo is helping protect snow leopards both here and in the wild. This habitat connects an immersive on-site experience with global conservation efforts, empowering guests to understand the challenges snow leopards face and how collective action can help ensure their survival for generations to come.