ROYAL OAK, Mich. – Construction has begun on the new Cotton Family wolf habitat at the Detroit Zoo. Located at the southwest corner of the park, the 2-acre sanctuary will feature grassy meadows, trees, a flowing stream and pond, dens and elevated rock outcroppings from which the wolves can survey their surroundings and Zoo visitors.

“Like many others in Michigan, our family is so excited to help save wolves – cousins of man’s best friend – in a protected sanctuary at the Detroit Zoo,” said David Cotton, whose family donated $500,000 toward the development of the wolf habitat.

For decades, the Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) has played a role in the conservation of wolves in Michigan. In 1952, the Detroit Zoo sent four wolves to Isle Royale in the Upper Peninsula to be released as part of a program to re-establish the species. As with other native Michigan animals living at the Zoo, the DZS will be engaged in conserving wolves in the wild.

“Our core mission is celebrating and saving wildlife, and while we work with many exotics, we also save native Michigan species,” said Ron Kagan, DZS Executive Director and CEO.

The wolf habitat was designed by Zoo Design, Inc. DeMaria/Wharton-Smith has been named general contractor on the project. The habitat is slated to open in 2015.

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