The Montreal Biodome, the "house of life", contains four eco - systems, 4800 animals and 750 plant species.
Although the museum is located at 4777 Avenue Pierre de Coubertin in east end Montreal, parking is at 3000 rue Viau, not far from the metro station of the same name.
From February 26 until September 7, the Biodome is open everyday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. the rest of the year it is open from Tuesday until Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Allow at least an hour for your visit.
Services include a bistro, gift shop and cafeteria.
Telephone: 514 868-3000
Visit The Montreal Biodome
The four eco- systems include the Tropical Forest with its lush vegetation and steamy climate that's perfect for a winter visit.
The North and South pole systems provide a welcome relief and a chance to visit penguins and auks.
Closer to home is the Laurentian Forest complete with beavers, otters and lynx.
The neighboring St. Lawrence Marine with 2.5 million litres of salt water contains and abundance of underwater plant life and his home to a huge bird population.
Along with permanent and temporary exhibitions visitors of all ages are welcome to check out the veterinary clinc, animal kitchen and the various laboratories.
Scientist are always on hand to answer all questions.
Naturalia is the "touchy - feely" room where kids can handle and experiment with the exhibits while staff help them learn about plant and animal adaptations.
Special "Moonlit Nights" allow visitors to see the nocturnal creatures.
In mid march every year the biodome hosts a 150 local studensts for a huge science fair.
The Montreal Biodome hosts visiting eco-systems and regions such as Madagascar until November 16, 2008. The local cultural heritage will be explored along with typical habitats and wildlife unique to the area.
The Biodome strives to represent areas with a high concentration of organisms found no where else. With 80% of its flora and fauna, unique to the region, Madagascar is a good choice.
Past temporary exhibits have focused on Asian bats and dryland habitats filled with road runners and prairie dogs.