The prolific manufacturer Polin Waterparks is more used to fabricating waterslides for use by humans, but recently it completed a project with a difference at the Philadelphia Zoo.

The American facility launched its Zoo360 experience several years ago. This series of mesh-covered exploration trails allow animals to move safely above the heads of guests. The zoo has now enhanced the offering with the opening of Water Is Life: Red Panda Pass and Otter Falls. Engaging and interactive water sculptures offer guests changing visual effects, allowing them to interact with, think about and engage with this essential substance.

The primary feature of the Otter Falls half of the exhibit is an oversized slide from Polin, through which the creatures can frolic, swim and slip. Extremely popular with visitors to the zoo, it has also attracted a lot of online interest, with thousands of fans watching a video of the animals slipping down their personal waterslide via the zoo’s Facebook page.

Polin worked on the project’s design and construction alongside longtime North American partner Aquatics by Westwind (Edmonton, Alberta, Canada).