Part of Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo’s new Asian habitat to open in July

Entrance sign for the Calgary Zoo in Calgary, Alberta on Friday, Feb. 17, 2012. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Larry MacDougal

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo says guests will be able to visit a portion of the reimagined Asian habitat this summer.

Imagine Asia is the new look for that area of the zoo, previously called Exploration Asia, and the first portion – the Asian Highlands – will open in July.

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The area focuses on the Eastern Himalayas, which will include new habitats for many of the zoo favourites such as the red pandas and snow leopards, as well as a new species, set to be announcement later this spring.

“Asian Highlands is designed with the welfare and wellbeing of every animal at its heart,” said Colleen Baird, the zoo’s director of animal care, health and welfare.

“Guests will see animals exploring new, enriched habitats while learning about the incredible species that call Asia home.”

Zoo guests are advised that while construction is ongoing for Imagine Asia, some areas may have limited viewing.