Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is continuing its development with plans to add a $22.5 million Pacific Northwest-themed exhibit by 2020.
The Owen Coastal Shores Habitat will house sea lions and brown pelicans and feature natural boundaries, a 40-foot-long viewing window, heated rocks and an underwater kelp forest.
Construction is expected to start in the fall.
“The new sea lions area will be developed with innovative facilities and features that, as always, focus on creating the best environment possible for the animals, such as shaded areas, water currents, a natural beach area and a sophisticated saltwater filtration system,” said Dennis Pate, president and CEO of Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. “This habitat will mirror African Grasslands and Asian Highlands in that we will be using natural elements to create an immersive environment for both the animals and Zoo visitors.”
