Detroit Zoo

Could a polar bear crash a party? At the Detroit Zoo, it almost happened. On opening day, August 1, 1928, acting Mayor John C. Nagel arrived late. He parked behind the bear exhibits, unaware of what lurked nearby. A polar bear, enjoying its “bar-less” enclosure, decided to investigate. It lunged at the mayor. Nagel, unfazed, offered a handshake, mistaking the bear for a “reception committee.” Keepers intervened, saving the mayor from a potentially disastrous photo op. The Detroit Zoo, spanning 125 acres in Huntington Woods and Royal Oak, Michigan, has a rich history. Originally opened in 1883 near Tiger Stadium, the first Detroit Zoo was short-lived. It closed the following year due to financial troubles and the curious habit of Detroiters “adopting” the animals. The current Detroit Zoo, established by the Detroit Zoological Society, opened in 1928. This zoo was the first in the U.S. to feature bar-less habitats. During the Great Depression, a chimpanzee named Jo Mendi captured the hearts of visitors. Jo, a seasoned performer from Broadway and movies, entertained crowds with his antics. Sadly, Jo’s career was cut short when he swallowed a penny thrown by a well-wisher. He died in 1934. Another star, Paulina the elephant, arrived in 1928. She helped with construction before her official duties began, hauling materials with the strength of twelve draft horses. Paulina also gave rides to countless children, a tradition that continued for years. She died in 1950 at the ripe old age of 69. The Detroit Zoo is known for its innovative exhibits. The Arctic Ring of Life, opened in 2001, immerses visitors in the polar bear’s world. A 70-foot underwater tunnel provides stunning views of these majestic creatures. The Australian Outback Adventure, opened in 2006, allows visitors to stroll among kangaroos and wallabies. The Detroit Zoo has also made difficult decisions. In 2005, they chose to retire their elephants, Wanda and Winky, to a California sanctuary. The zoo felt that Michigan winters were too harsh for the animals. The Detroit Zoo continues to evolve, always with a focus on animal welfare and conservation. It’s a place where polar bears greet mayors, chimpanzees steal the show, and elephants leave a lasting legacy.