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Polar Bear Exhibit

One of the most significant upgrades in many years to Winnipeg''s Assiniboine Park Zoo has opened. The International Polar Bear Conservation Centre (IPBCC) was unveiled on Monday. The $4.5-million centre — which will serve as the headquarters of Polar Bears International — will provide a home for orphaned, injured or problem polar bears. The zoo has been without a polar bear since its long-time resident, Debby, died in 2008 at age 42. The zoo was not able to get another polar bear because its enclosure no longer met provincial standards. In addition to the IPBCC, the zoo is also developing a $26-million Journey to Churchill exhibit. Scheduled for completion in 2013, the exhibit will also feature a variety of interactive elements, including an aurora borealis 360-degree theatre; motorized polar bear tundra tours; a rooftop Tundra Garden; and a new restaurant, gift shop and children''s play area.

Story was last updated at: 2012-02-06 09:53:05