Latest news with #SpeciesSurvivalPlan
Axios
4 hours ago
- General
- Axios
Columbus Zoo is on baby elephant watch
Talk about big news: For the first time in the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's history, two Asian elephants are pregnant at the same time — and one is due any day now. Why it matters: The species is endangered, and its population in accredited zoos is currently unsustainable due to dwindling numbers and a lack of genetic diversity, according to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). The calves' father — Sabu, from the Cincinnati Zoo, who lived here temporarily — has no living offspring, so the births will bolster the gene pool. The big picture: The news comes as some zoos are moving away from keeping elephants amid increasing care standards, which require lots of space and expense. Others, like Columbus, are investing more by expanding habitats, encouraging breeding, and working with global partners to conserve wild elephants. Advocates say keeping elephants is important for research and education. A 2023 AZA strategic plan calls for increased collaboration among zoos, including transferring animals for breeding. Threat level:"If we don't do something as a group, we're not going to have elephants in 100 years," says Adam Felts, senior zoo curator and head of the AZA's Species Survival Plan. At last count, there were 157 Asian elephants in 27 AZA institutions. Zoom in: Felts took Axios behind the scenes to meet 38-year-old matriarch Phoebe, who is expecting her sixth calf. She's "all business," with a big appetite. The 7,400-pound pachyderm calmly used her trunk to funnel biscuits into her mouth while a veterinarian scanned her with an ultrasound probe. Her calf is likely the size of a Great Dane. It's impossible to see the entire thing in one image, but vets can view ribs, a skull or a beating heart. All appear healthy. Another elephant, 16-year-old Sunny, is due with her first calf between now and August, while Phoebe is due in the fall. Keepers hope the experienced mom will show Sunny the ropes. They're encouraged by her bond with Phoebe's 3-year-old calf, Frankie, who still lives at the zoo. The arrangement should mimic wild herd behaviors, in which females raise the young together and males are mostly solitary. The intrigue: The new calves will make history in another way, as Columbus' first to be vaccinated for elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV). The devastating virus is the leading cause of death among AZA elephants, and calves are especially at risk. A vaccine became available last year. What's next: Elephants are pregnant up to 22 months, so expect lots of fanfare when the 200-plus-pound bundles of joy finally arrive. 1 fun prenatal ritual: elephant yoga Impress your friends with this fun fact: the Columbus Zoo's herd is trained in "elephant yoga." How it works: The elephants follow a target and maneuver into various poses, such as stretching their feet and trunks, kneeling, and lying on the ground. Between the lines: Keepers say practicing the moves keeps them limber and engaged. It also helps them learn to get into positions for routine health monitoring, such as blood draws, exams and ultrasounds. 😅 Alissa's thought bubble: I definitely couldn't move as gracefully during my pregnancy as 7,400-pound Phoebe does. Impressive.
Yahoo
03-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Kansas City Zoo welcomes 2 baby cotton-top tamarins
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Zoo announced on Monday that they've welcomed two baby cotton-top tamarins. They were born on May 19. When they are old enough, the veterinary team will be able to identify their sex. Royals call up No. 1 prospect Jac Caglianone to MLB Along with the birth of the tamarins, the zoo also introduced their new program called 'Wild Beginnings' that celebrates newborn animals at the zoo. Cotton-top tamarins are classified as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The main reason for their decline in population is due to deforestation. Family sues Kansas City, KC Sports Commission & several others for 2024 Chiefs parade shooting The Kansas City Zoo is one of the accredited facilities within the Association of Zoos & Aquariums that participates in the Species Survival Plan to ensure a genetically diverse and stable population of cotton-top tamarins. When you visit the zoo, the tamarins will be located habitat in Sobela Ocean Aquarium. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Humboldt penguin exhibit opens at Roger Williams Park Zoo
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — If you're looking for something to do this weekend, you may want to consider a trip to Roger Williams Park Zoo. A dozen Humboldt penguins have moved into a new exhibit called 'Penguin Point.' The zoo is one of only 24 facilities in North America to care for this species. The 'quirky, sun-loving' penguins were flown in from Peru. They favor rocky environments near nutrient-dense waters, according to the zoo. ALSO READ: 6 rehabilitated seals released back into ocean Since 1988, these penguins have been listed as 'vulnerable' as their population continues to decline. With an estimated 12,000 breeding pairs left, the zoo is committed to the 'long-term viability of Humboldt penguins through its involvement in the Species Survival Plan.' The zoo hasn't had penguins since 2013, but announced in 2022 that they'd be returning. The city gave the zoo $1.5 million in COVID-19 relief funds to renovate the old exhibit in hopes of attracting more visitors. Initially, the zoo had planned to bring the penguins back last summer, but the opening date was pushed back due to 'unforeseen circumstances' with the habitat. NEXT: RI beaches open for summer Memorial Day weekend Download the and apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch or with the new . Follow us on social media: Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Zoo Knoxville welcomes two new rhinos ahead of new exhibit opening
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — The Rhino Reserve exhibit is coming to Zoo Knoxville, where it will be home to two southern white rhinos named Mylo and Ranger. Here's when the public will first be able to meet them. The Rhino Reserve exhibit is opening to the public over Memorial Day weekend. The official launch date is set for Friday, March 23. Mechanical issue delays opening of Oak Ridge Outdoor Pool At the Rhino Reserve exhibit, Zoo Knoxville said it will have two southern white rhinos, half-brothers Mylo and Ranger. Both rhinos are a part of the Association of Zoos and Aquarium's Species Survival Plan, which is a collaborative program that works to maintain genetically healthy and sustainable populations at accredited zoos. 'We're so excited to welcome Mylo and Ranger and continue Zoo Knoxville's legacy with Southern White Rhinos,' said Zoo Knoxville President and CEO Bill Street. 'This is an amazing opportunity to share the story of these incredible animal ambassadors with our guests and inspire a deeper connection to wildlife and conservation.' The zoo said Rhino Reserve will not only be offering visitors close-up views of the animals. It will also include educational elements about rhino conservation and the threats the species faces in the wild, which includes habitat loss and poaching. The state-of-the-art space is designed to engage guests while supporting the health and well-being of the animals. There are only around 18,000 southern white rhinos in the wild. The species is the largest of the five rhino species, and thanks to conservation efforts, the population has rebounded from the brink of extinction. Tennessee State Veterinarian issues alert for flesh-eating parasite According to Zoo Knoxville, southern white rhinos weigh nearly 5,000 pounds and can hit speeds of 30 miles per hour when they decide to. The species is native to the open grasslands of Africa and spend most of their time grazing and acting as 'nature's lawnmowers,' the zoo said. Zoo Knoxville does have a long and successful history of working with southern white rhinos, and Rhino Reserve is another exciting milestone in the zoo's commitment to rhino preservation. Previously, the zoo has also participated in breeding programs that contribute to the survival of the species. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Peoria Zoo welcomes the newest spotted friend to their herd
PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — The Peoria Zoo welcomes a long-neck friend who transferred over from the Memphis Zoo. Fitzniklas, who goes by Fitz, is a giraffe who is just over one year old, and the zoo said he is energetic with a bright future, they said in a release. 'Fitz brings youthful energy and a bright future to our giraffe exhibit, where he will soon be joining our two resident female giraffes, Vivian and Emy,' they said. Fitz was brought to Peoria with careful coordination from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan. As is policy, Fitz is working to complete his quarantine period but has begun interacting with Emy and Vivian through a protective fence. 'Though separated by a protective fence for now, the trio have been spotted exchanging gentle nuzzles, offering a heartwarming preview of the bonds being formed,' the release said. Fitz is expected to finish his quarantine period next week, at which point visitors will be able to enjoy his presence in his new home with Emy and Vivian. His primary keeper, Lauren, said that he is fitting in well and the whole zoo is excited about his presence. 'Fitz is a sweet little guy with a lot of personality and curiosity,' said Lauren. 'He's going to fit in well with the girls, and they already love him as much as I, and the rest of the zoo crew, do.' For more updates on Fitz and other Zoo news, the release said to follow them on social media. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
