The wolf is a powerful symbol of wilderness and an enduring sense of wonder. Brookfield Zoo’s new Regenstein Wolf Woods exhibit gives guests a front row seat to experience the power and beauty of these magnificent animals up close.
The expanded 2.1-acre exhibit site along the scenic south shore of Indian Lake will provide an enriching natural habitat for wolves to explore. Regenstein Wolf Woods will be home to the most endangered sub-species of gray wolf in North America--the Mexican gray wolf. The five young, active males who will live at Wolf Woods will be part of a conservation and reintroduction program that is among the highest priorities of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the American Zoo and Aquarium Association.
Regenstein Wolf Woods also promises unforgettable experiences to all who visit. In the Wolf Viewing Gallery, one-way glass will enable guests to go nose to nose with wolves. A kid-friendly and wheelchair accessible wolf den will offer a one-of-a-kind view of the animals, while a unique, multisensory theater will give zoo guests the sensation of being in the midst of a wolf pack. Plus, fun activities and incredible animal views along the Wolf Woods Trail will enable guests to learn all about wolf behavior and how they help their habitat.
Watching Wolves
The new exhibit is a fantastic opportunity to catch a glimpse of wolves behaving as they would in the wild---especially if you know when to look! For the best viewing, stop by Wolf Woods as soon as the zoo opens. The pack makes its way into the exhibit yard between 9:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. The wolves are very inquisitive when they explore their space every morning. They often take a morning swim and search for special treats left by keepers. They stay active until around 11:30 a.m. Once noon rolls around, they usually take a siesta, napping on the large hill in the middle of the exhibit. Around 2:30 or 3:00 p.m., keepers come through during their normal rounds, and this often stimulates the wolves’ interest. The pack ends the day almost as active as it began, with lots of movement and investigation as it prepares to shift off exhibit for the night, around 5:00 p.m. If you happen to stop by when the wolves are napping or out of view, you can still use the exhibit's wolf cams to get an up-close view!