San Diego Zoo Opens Komodo Dragon And Hummingbird Habitats

The San Diego Zoo unveiled two new habitats on Tuesday, June 1.

The Kenneth C. Griffin Komodo Kingdom and the William E. Cole Family Hummingbird Habitat will showcase some of the most delicate species on earth, reports City News Service.

"We are thrilled to offer our guests the chance to connect with wildlife in new and exciting ways," said the executive director of the San Diego Zoo Dwight Scott. "Both of these new destinations continue our long history of creating groundbreaking habitats that are vital in building public empathy for wildlife, telling our conservation story and enlisting help to save wildlife, here at home and abroad."

The Komodo Kingdom will include pools, misters, hot rocks, and heated caves designed to recreate the giant lizards' native habitat on Komodo Island in Indonesia.

The Hummingbird Habitat is an immersive walk-through experience that features streams, waterfalls, orchids, and other plants to recreate the birds' native regions. The habitat will also feature an open-water pool that visitors can view from an observation bridge included in the pathway.

According to City News Service, San Diego Zoo architects used sustainable materials as a major part of both habitat designs.

"This design intent embraces our mission by simultaneously integrating the conservation of energy, water, and other resources, which ultimately provides a healthier environment for staff, guests and wildlife," said Vanessa Nevers, associate architect for the San Diego Zoo.

Photo: Getty Images