Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Unveils Upgraded Barn for Kangaroos and Emus

CLEVELAND, OHIO — The gray kangaroos and emus at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo are settling into an expanded home after construction wrapped up on a new barn in the Australian Adventure exhibit. The animals moved back into the space this past winter, marking the completion of a project specifically designed to prioritize their year-round comfort and health.

According to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, the updated barn provides double the room for the animals compared with the previous facility. It is equipped with several high-tech features, including heated floors and an improved ventilation system to maintain air quality during the colder months. Outside the main structure, the exhibit now includes a large shade structure and a heated patio. These additions ensure the kangaroos and emus have access to comfortable microclimates even when volatile Northeast Ohio weather brings freezing temperatures.

While these species are naturally more tolerant of the cold than other Australian wildlife, zoo officials noted the upgrades are vital to maintaining the highest standards of animal care. The Australian Adventure area has remained a focal point for the 183-acre park since it first opened in 1996. Located in the city's Old Brooklyn neighborhood, the zoo frequently updates these habitats to keep pace with evolving modern zoological practices.

The zoo is currently open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Residents of Cuyahoga County and Hinckley Township can access the grounds for free on Mondays with a valid photo ID.

--------------------

At Cleveland 13 News, we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date, and reliable reporting. If you spot an error, omission, or have information that may need updating, please email us at tips@cleveland13news.com. As a community-driven news network, we appreciate the help of our readers in ensuring the integrity of our reporting.