Lurking not far from the imposing bison herd in Hanover Zoo are the Prairie dogs. These small creatures dig through the soil in Yukon Bay. This area is designed to resemble the rugged wilderness of Canada. The area has rocky landscapes, forests, gorges, and caves.
Hanover Adventure Zoo is not just a recreational facility. It takes its responsibilities seriously. The zoo focuses on species conservation, education, and research. Visitors are thrust into six immersive environments. These environments feature architecture and landscapes designed in a consistent style.
Yukon Bay is one of the immersive environments. The goal was to design a habitat for Nordic animals. The design is as true-to-life as possible. It conforms to zoological requirements. It also promotes thrilling encounters with the animals. Story building played an important role in the planning process.
Dan Pearlman was the general planner. They were responsible for designing the architecture and landscape. They also handled communications, food services and the shop. All other planning services were also contracted to them.
Yukon Bay is a complex immersive destination. 15,000 cubic meters of earth were moved. 1,200 tons of steel were installed. 13,000 cubic meters of concrete were poured. 39 special glass panes were constructed for above- and underwater views. 200 tons of small and 400 large natural stones were placed. 200 trees and 18,000 shrubs and bushes were planted. Over sixty construction companies worked behind the scenes. They laid 10 km of communications cables and 30 km of power cables.
The little town of Yukon Bay was founded by gold miners. It quickly announces itself. The market square is full of colorful activity. Inside the former market hall for fish, Mike serves fish & chips and juicy burgers. Mama Mia simmers pasta. Luigi Amarone offers Italian ice cream for dessert.
The old cargo ship, the Yukon Queen, is moored in the harbor. Seals romp around in front of the grandstand. Polar bears live on the other side. Penguins live on the deck of the ship.
The caribou enclosure is situated on top of the gold mine. The backside of the grandstand sets the stage for visitors. It has a colorful row house facade. It also has retail space for ice cream and popcorn.
The facade of the Grand Theatre Palace was accurately modeled. It was modeled after the theatre of the same name in Dawson City. Inside the market hall, traces of former fish auctions can still be found. The view looks out over the harbor and the polar bear enclosure.
Large panoramic windows provide unique viewing opportunities. You can observe the wolf pack. Impressive views of the seal, penguin, and polar bear tank are possible. These views are available from inside the hull of the Yukon Queen.
In April some years ago, 23 young Prairie dogs were born. They had only recently left their nests to explore Yukon Beringia. Imagine their first glimpse of this fascinating world. Yukon Bay is a testament to creating immersive and engaging environments. It offers exciting encounters with animals like these Prairie dogs.