This text is part of the special Spring Break booklet
The zoo, in its many variations, is a privileged meeting place with species from here and elsewhere, even in winter. For spring break, most zoos offer activities for the whole family, the time of a nice meeting with these furry and feathered friends, who will fuel dreams and beautiful memories.
In nature at the Ecomuseum
Located in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, the Ecomuseum Zoo allows you to observe animal species from Quebec, such as the otter, the gray wolf and the lynx, in a natural setting. Although some species, such as bears and raccoons, are in hibernation, 90% of the zoo’s species can be seen in winter. It is also important to know that the animals that are kept at the Ecomuseum were taken in because they were injured, orphaned or born among humans, and cannot be released back into their wild habitat. During spring break, visitors are offered to make a “flash VIP reservation” to spend 20 minutes in the company of a reptile and a zoologist, who will answer the most curious questions! In addition, due to COVID-19, a reservation is mandatory for all zoo visitors for the entire season.
Puppets at the Biodôme
After years of renovations, the Biodôme now welcomes visitors to its spectacular new architecture. Starting February 26, in addition to the star animals of these immersive ecosystems, such as penguins, giant animal puppets — made from eco-responsible materials — will be waiting for families during entertainment with music, five times a day. in the entrance hall. In addition, as part of the “Discovering” animation activity in the company of educators, we lift the veil on little-known animal and plant species. For spring break, we will present the mysterious sea line and the wood duck. Exceptionally, the Biodôme will be open on Monday, February 28.
Immersion
An impressive new immersive experience has just been added to the activities of the Aquarium du Québec. The 10-minute projection, entitled Immersion, takes place in a circular room surrounded by 11 projectors, and literally immerses the spectator at the bottom of a virtual water which makes him discover the bottom of the Great Lakes, the St. Lawrence River and the Atlantic. There, he will meet large marine animals, such as belugas and sperm whales. This presentation, accessible continuously, enhances the visit of the vast establishment which has thousands of fish and marine animals that can be observed by circulating under glass tunnels.
Inside the Granby Zoo
Visiting the Zoo de Granby in winter is an opportunity to see animals in a completely different setting, and many of them, such as Amur tigers and snow leopards, are less sensitive to the cold than you might think. ! Although the day camp usually offered during spring break has been canceled due to COVID-19, activities will be offered for the whole family. On the other hand, since February 5, thanks to the relaxation of sanitary measures, the zoo has reopened its interior pavilions, including those of elephants, giraffes, lions and hippos. The vaccination passport and an identity document are required for 13 years and over.
Spoiled for choice at Omega
There are so many things to do at Parc Omega that one could easily spend several days there. In addition to observing animal species from the Northern Hemisphere, such as bison, coyotes and caribou, while staying aboard your vehicle on a 12 km route, a multitude of other activities are possible. Athletes of all ages can practice ice skating, snowshoeing and tube sliding. On weekends, you can also take a dog sled or horse-drawn carriage ride through the forest roads. During the spring break, special activities will be added to the usual programming, such as face painting for children.
train ride
Famous for its train ride allowing you to observe wildlife through the nature trail park, the Zoo sauvage de Saint-Félicien is also open in winter. About 500 animals of 86 species are present at the zoo, among them the polar bear, the mountain goat, the arctic wolf and the domestic yak. An equally interesting pedestrian section allows you to see animals from seven regions, including the arctic tundra, Asia and Mongolia.