Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has launched its latest attraction, the Lion & Hyena Ridge, as part of a substantial $200 million (£200 million) park transformation. Officially opened on 25 July, this expansive 38,000-square-foot habitat is designed to immerse visitors in the African wilderness, featuring America's largest coalition of lions and a pair of hyenas. The habitat is a key component of the park's five-year investment plan aimed at enhancing visitor engagement and animal welfare.
The Lion & Hyena Ridge offers a safari-style experience with 270-degree glass viewing areas, interactive cave spaces, and overhead bridges. These features allow guests to observe the animals closely whilst ensuring their physical, social, and mental wellbeing. "This immersive experience brings guests face to face with these incredible animals whilst showcasing our continued commitment to exceptional animal care," said Jon Vigue, Park President of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
The habitat includes naturalistic elements such as rock formations and water features, providing the animals with varied environments to explore. The design ensures that lions and hyenas, natural rivals, do not share the same space simultaneously, promoting their wellbeing and offering a dynamic experience for visitors.
This development is part of Busch Gardens' broader enhancement plan, which aims to introduce new attractions and improve guest experiences. Annual Pass holders can enjoy unlimited visits to the park, making it an ideal time to witness the growth of the young lions and the playful antics of the hyenas. For more information, visit Busch Gardens' website
This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools and checked by the editor before publication. Spot an error? Report it here.
