The Giant Panda has certain behavioral adaptations that help it survive. Every year the giant panda migrates down the mountain to stay warm during winter. When threatened, a Giant Panda will bow its head and growl to ward of predators. A Giant Panda communicates by honks snorts and whistles.
The commission had run the restaurant since the park opened in 1991, but decided to turn it over to a vendor in an effort to save money. In December 2010, Treat America opened a fine dining restaurant at the park called The Lodge Steakhouse at Mahoney.
With the exception of the 1972 flood, the park has been open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day each year since 1959. With continued support from the Rapid City Rotary Clubs, the City of Rapid City, and the parkâs many community friends, Storybook Island will remain open as a free park for a long time to come.