The Edmonton Valley Zoo’s nocturnal wing, home to a colony of 92 Jamaican fruit bats, officially reopened to the public on July 4, 2026, following extensive renovations.

The upgrades included a new back wall designed to mimic a cave environment, a quieter misting system, and improved lighting that enhances visibility without disrupting the bats’ natural circadian rhythms.The bats were temporarily relocated in February during the renovations and returned to their renovated habitat after veterinary checks.

Trevor Hickey, animal care crew lead, explained that the new back wall creates usable space for the bats, while the upgraded misting system reduces noise and improves comfort.

The zoo emphasized the ecological importance of Jamaican fruit bats, which act as pollinators and seed dispersers, highlighting their role in environmental conservation.

The reopening aims to educate the public about these often-misunderstood creatures, offering a safe and controlled environment for visitors to observe them.The project underscores the zoo’s commitment to animal welfare and conservation efforts, blending modern technology with wildlife preservation.