SASKATOON — Three arctic wolves will be the latest attraction at the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo with the sisters — Anori, Inneq and Nuna — calling the Nutrien Ark their new home.
Saskatoon Zoo Manager Jeff Mitchell says the new wolf pack as it will give residents and other visitors the chance to learn more about the subspecies of grey wolves.
Arctic wolves, also known as white wolves or polar wolves, are native to Queen Elizabeth Islands in Canada’s northernmost arctic archipelago.
“Arctic wolves are beautiful animals, and we are so fortunate to have an opportunity for our guests to come and learn more about this magnificent species,” said Mitchell.
“Arctic wolves have some fantastic adaptations including the ability to withstand the sub-zero temperatures and months of absolute darkness often experienced in their natural habitat.”
The three sisters arrived safely from Toronto Zoo last week, and the zookeepers have been slowly introducing the wolves to their new home at the Nutrien Ark.
“We want to give the wolves a chance to become familiar with their new home, so for the next several days they will be transitioning from their indoor space to the outdoor wolf habitat at the Nutrien Ark,” said Mitchell.
The Zoo has been preparing for the wolves’ arrival for several weeks by upgrading the interior portion of the exhibit. Renovations are now completed with the exhibit having a new training and enrichment area which allows zookeepers to work more closely with the wolves.
Automatic heated water bowls were also added providing access to fresh, clean water. In the summer, the wolves will also get the opportunity to explore an upgraded pond in the exhibit.
In the outdoor portion of their habitat, a new structure provides an opportunity for the wolves to den or climb up on top to get a better view of their space.
The Zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is an admission by donation until March 31, 2023. Visit saskatoon.ca/zoo to plan your next visit or learn more about the Zoo Season Pass.
