Riverbanks Zoo Introduces Two New Exhibits

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Columbia , S.C. (WOLO) — On Wednesday, Riverbanks Zoo introduced two new exhibits, Grizzly Ridge and Otter Run. The two exhibits are part of a $36 million extension project at the zoo. Exploring their new habitat, with refreshing waterfalls and cozy nooks, river otter sisters, Savannah, Sophia and Divya soaked up the sun, and the spotlight on Wednesday at Riverbanks Zoo. “They’re pretty cool,” said zoo visitor Sydney Stoner. “We get to see otters sleeping and then they pull their head up and go back down to sleep.” “Their faces are small and it’s funny when they yawn,” added zoo visitor Evelynn White. The trio are the first North American River Otters to call the Riverbanks Zoo home in nearly 3 decades, which gave visitors an experience several of them haven’t had before, going nose to nose through the glass with otters. “When you see animals in water and you can see in through the glass, into the bi-level viewing and see animals interacting both on land and in water, it always brings a really enhancing quality to the experience for guests,” said John Davis, Curator of Mammals at Riverbanks Zoo. Also new to the neighborhood, playful grizzlies Butch and Sundance. The two brothers returned to Riverbanks Zoo after spending more than a year away while their new home was being built. “The grizzly bears were climbing all over the trees,” explained zoo visitor Lydia White. “We hated to see them go but bringing them back now into their new habitat gives guests the ability to see the animals nose to nose if you will,” said Davis. For zoo go-ers, this marks the beginning of a whole new experience with more exciting additions on the way. The two exhibits are the first to open as part of the renovations. Officials said the full first phase should be completed next month. Part of that includes a new entryway and more ticket booths. Also, next spring they will debut another new exhibit, Sea Lions Landing.