Rescued Moose Calf to Relocate to Toronto Zoo

A blind baby moose named Cedar, rescued earlier this month near Hawkesbury, Ontario, is set to move to the Toronto Zoo after provincial authorities approved his transfer. The two-month-old calf was discovered wandering alone, without his mother, and has since been under the care of Holly’s Haven Wildlife Rescue in Ottawa.

Temporary Care and Urgent Medical Attention

After being rescued, Cedar received immediate veterinary care at Holly’s Haven. Staff found he was blind, with partial sight in one eye. In response, the team set up a makeshift recovery room and soon built a small outdoor enclosure for him. According to Lynne Rowe, Director of Operations, Cedar’s condition made it impossible to return him to the wild, prompting a search for permanent sanctuary.

Sanctuary Capacity and Search for Alternatives

Normally, the rescue group partners with Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary for long-term animal care. However, the sanctuary was already at full capacity for moose. Faced with limited options, Rowe reached out to the Toronto Zoo, which agreed to provide a new home for Cedar.

Ministry Approval Enables Move

Due to wildlife protection regulations, transferring a native Canadian animal like a moose to a zoo requires special permission. The Ministry of Natural Resources approved the request within a day, citing Cedar’s inability to survive in the wild as justification for the move.

Zoo Prepares for Cedar’s Arrival

Toronto Zoo CEO Dolf DeJong confirmed that the zoo has a suitable moose enclosure and that preparations are underway to welcome Cedar. Before relocation, veterinarians from both facilities will conduct disease scans and full health assessments to ensure a safe transfer.

Education and Awareness Opportunity

While releasing Cedar into the wild would have been ideal, DeJong emphasized the educational value in his story. “Many Canadians have never seen a moose up close,” he said. “If Cedar needs a forever home, we’re honoured to provide it and share his journey with the public.”

No Timeline Yet for Public Viewing

Cedar will remain at Holly’s Haven until his health stabilizes and paperwork is finalized. There is currently no set date for his move or public exhibition. Both teams stress that Cedar’s well-being remains the top priority.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

The post Toronto Zoo to Welcome Blind Moose Calf Cedar first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Designs have been developed by the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park and Zoo to expand and modernize their grizzly bear exhibit. The project, which will be presented to the Saskatoon city council, aims to provide a larger, more enriching space for the bears Koda and Mistaya.

Multi-Phase Project to Enhance Wildlife Habitats

The expansion will unfold in three phases. Initially, Koda and Mistaya will be relocated to a bigger enclosure within the zoo. Subsequent phases include plans to create updated exhibits for black bears and polar bears. Ultimately, the zoo hopes to introduce a full pack of 8 to 10 Arctic wolves alongside the three female wolves currently housed.

Future-Focused Exhibit Design to Accommodate More Species

Zoo operations manager Jeff Mitchell explained that the new bear exhibit is being designed with future animal displays in mind. “If we build a new exhibit, what other animals can we display?” Mitchell said, highlighting the zoo’s commitment to long-term planning and animal welfare.

Intensive Care Required for Bear Upkeep

The care of bears demands significant resources. Mitchell noted that up to three keepers are needed daily to tend to one or two polar bears. This year, nearly eight hours per day have been dedicated by a keeper specifically to enrich the bears’ environment, acknowledging the current space is below ideal standards.

Funding and Timeline Challenges Ahead

Funding for this ambitious project is hoped to come from the city, the zoo society, and fundraising efforts. Mitchell expressed confidence in community support but cautioned that construction and fundraising could take up to six years before completion.

New Animal Arrival Teased Amid Expansion Plans

While the expansion is underway, the zoo promises exciting news soon. “We have a brand-new animal coming out this week that we are excited to announce, but you’re going to have to wait for that,” Mitchell teased, keeping visitors eager for upcoming developments.

With these plans, the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Zoo is poised to enhance its role as a premier destination for wildlife education and conservation, offering improved habitats and new species for visitors to enjoy.

The post Saskatoon Forestry Farm Plans Major Bear Exhibit Expansion first appeared on Maple News Wire.