Renowned naturalist and explorer Professor Hans Hildeberg has made it his life’s work to locate and protect rare species in hostile climates.  His expeditions have led him to discover creatures occupying habitats so remote, with such extreme temperatures, that they have never before been seen by mankind.

Creatures discovered during his latest expedition into the extreme terrains of Antarctica, though varying in constitution and appearance have all one thing in common. A profound hibernation pattern that sees them somnambulant for nine months of the year, oblivious to the world.

In the interests of education, and concern for these potentially endangered species, Professor Hildeberg has made a courageous and adventurous decision.  Whilst in their profound hibernation, he will transport them back to Europe so that the public could marvel at these previously undiscovered creatures. In good time for the Antarctic Equinox thaw and the start of the foraging and mating seasons, they will all be returned to their natural habitats, oblivious of their roles as ambassadors in evoking sympathy and support for animal welfare.

THE PROJECT: This project has evolved out of the original ambition to build a full-sized Zoo with creative contributions from a variety of international artists. While the current financial climate is not sympathetic to such a vast and ridiculous endeavour, all has not been lost!

Professor Hildeberg’s Hibernating Antarctic Zoo is currently being built in Glasgow, with support from Creative Scotland and European partners, and will be premiered in May 2012 before ‘hitting the road’.

The audience experience will include a comfortable AV documentary experience, Health and Safety induction procedure involving ponchos, and the opportunity to examine the sleeping exhibits in their temperature controlled environments (fridges).