The Detroit Zoo's Arctic Ring of Life is now open to the public. At 4.2 acres, it's the world's largest polar bear exhibit. The Arctic Ring of Life features the only Polar Passage, a 70-ft. long clear tunnel in which visitors can get closer to diving and swimming polar bears and seals than anywhere else on earth. 

In addition to seven polar bears, the exhibit also is home to several other Arctic animals including four Arctic foxes, two snowy owls, four harbor seals, one rescued Grey seal, and one rescued Harp seal. 

The Arctic Ring of Life simulates the environment in which the animals live in the wild. The exhibit includes 300,000 gallons of chilled salt water (rather than fresh water), ice machines that will make 1,800 lb. blocks of ice, and cooling pads throughout the exhibit to keep the animals cool during Michigan summers.

Visitors can take a simulated trek to the North Pole through the tundra, open sea and pack ice of the Arctic environment, and see the animals that are uniquely adapted to life there. The exhibit also explores the relationship between Arctic people (Inuit) and wildlife. 

Detroit Zoological Institute Director, Ron Kagan states, "Our goal of the Arctic Ring of Life is to excite and educate the public about animals and Arctic ecosystems in a unique way. Both the Arctic wildlife and the people have adapted in unusual ways in this extreme and amazing landscape. This expansive and dynamic exhibit will provide a stimulating experience for the animals as well." 

Since polar bears are predators of seals in the wild the Arctic Ring of Life has a special ice and acrylic barrier underneath that separates the animals from each other. Curator of Mammals at the Detroit Zoo, Scott Carter says, "It's exciting for visitors and the animals to be in such close proximity to each other." 

The Arctic Ring of Life is open during normal Zoo hours and there is no additional admission fee. The Detroit Zoological Institute, founded in 1928, is committed to celebrating and saving wildlife. Situated on 125 acres of naturalistic exhibits, the Zoo is open year round with several indoor viewing areas. The Detroit Zoo is located at the intersection of the Ten Mile Road and Woodward Avenue, just off I-696 in Royal Oak. Admission $8.00 for adults; $6.00 for seniors and children ages 2-18; and children under 2 are free.