Natina Transforms Zoo Habitat from Glaring to ‘Bearly’ Noticeable

Tropical bear habitat | Photo by Natina

In a “wild” collaboration with a zoo, Natina took on an exciting project to revamp a bear habitat. The goal was to transform the glaring metal enclosure into a “bearly” noticeable one, while also ensuring the safety and well-being of the tropical bears that call it home.  

Making a Hard Job Easy 

The zoo faced the difficult challenge of finding a coloring solution that would improve the aesthetics of the habitat. The solution had to meet various requirements, including being USDA-compliant, natural, nontoxic, rust-free and low maintenance.  

Essentially, the challenge was twofold — it had to avoid any adverse effects on the tropical bears and plants within the habitat, while simultaneously reducing the visual impact for human observers.  

That’s where Natina came in. We collaborated with the zoologists, designers and experts to not only meet their criteria but also to surpass their expectations. 

Andean bear at the zoo | Photo by Natina

Natina: The Natural Choice 

Natina emerged as the ideal choice for this project due to its eco-friendly nature. Instead of methods like weathering steel and paint — that each come with their own challenges such as rust and flaking — Natina provided a low-maintenance, natural solution that enhanced the aesthetics of the metal enclosure. 

The ‘Bear’ Necessities  

— Safe around animals  

— Safe around plants 

— Environmentally friendly   

Thankfully, Natina is an animal-friendly choice, meeting the requirements for this project.  

Bringing the Vision to Life 

Our Natina team worked diligently at our facility, applying our beautiful signature rustic brown finish to everything from galvanized chain-link fences and metal wire to hardware and components. These were transported to the zoo, where the project’s designer and a skilled installer joined forces to construct the habitat, while carefully following environmental and zoo guidelines. 

The Natina finish on the enclosure helps it blend into the bears’ habitat | Photo by Natina

Revealing the Results

With the successful application of Natina’s color solution, the metal enclosure surrounding the tropical bears has been transformed into a visually appealing sight that seamlessly blends in with the habitat.  

Not only does our treatment have no negative impact on the well-being of the bears, but it also significantly reduces the visual impact of the necessary constructed areas around the animal habitat. Now, zoo goers can fully immerse themselves in the exhibit without any distractions from glaring metal.  

This project is an example of our commitment to providing a color solution that is both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally friendly. It’s why we believe we’re Changing the Way You See Construction®. 

Due to the success of the project, you’ll likely spot more of Natina at zoos and in environmentally sensitive areas in the near future! 

Enhance and Protect Your Project 

To explore how Natina can enhance your project’s aesthetics while protecting the environment, reach out to us today. 

Also, make sure to check out another project we did at the Phoenix Zoo in the warty pig habitat.