Visitors to Franklin Park Zoo can now immerse themselves in a newly renovated outdoor habitat home for Andean condors. Renamed Raptor Ridge, the unit went through an extensive upgrade this past spring and summer, with one of the focuses being the integrity of the original architecture.

The huge iron and steel structure, originally called the Aquatic Flying Cage, was once home to waterfowl, pelicans, ibis, and a flamingo flock. The aviary was built over 110 years ago, and is one of only two original buildings still standing at the Zoo, alongside the William Austin Bird House (known as Bird’s World).

The renovation, which took seven months to complete, involved replacing 42,000 feet of mesh and using 180 gallons of paint. The landscaping was completely redone with predominantly native plants chosen to have a similar look to the environment where the birds are from. Water plants will be added in the spring.

Additionally, flight paths and perches were added, including closer perching for better visibility when the birds use them. The unit features a 300-foot-long watercourse that drops 12 feet over five waterfalls.