Reid Park Zoo - Tucson Zoological Society

“Shaba,” Reid Park Zoo’s African elephant, is back at the canvas.  She is creating a unique piece of art, but also participating in a behavior training session that helps keep her active and interested in her surroundings.  Zoo Keeper Gale blows a small whistle when Shaba responds to a verbal prompt, and occasionally rewards Shaba with small pieces of fruit.  If Shaba doesn’t want to participate she can choose to walk away, but usually she enjoys being an artist!

Check out the latest installment of Zoo News, and learn about how your Zoo uses positive reinforcement to teach animals behaviors that help us care for them.

http://www.tucson12.tv/programs/ZooNews/index.php

Kaya and Kitabu get reaquainted on exhibit

18-year-old African lion “Kitabu” suffered a stroke in February, but has recovered “unexpectedly well, despite his age,” says Dr. Moreno, the Zoo’s contract veterinarian.  Kitabu was moved from the Zoo’s Health Center back to his normal holding area last week, and his reintroduction to Kaya, the Zoo’s young female lion, went very well.  Zoo Keepers will continue to monitor Kitabu’s progress closely.  Both lions are now on exhibit daily at the Zoo!

Female giraffe “Denver” studies a new addition to the exhibit. A utility pole was placed across the pool to keep the giraffes from stepping into the water, where they might slip. 

Click here to check out what’s happening at your Zoo in an online feature from the Tucson Weekly.

Mr. Mocos returns to rock the Zoo with family-friendly tunes this Saturday, May 8th at 10:00 a.m. The show is FREE with regular Zoo admission. Hope to see you there!

As temperatures heat up, the Zoo’s Aldabra tortoises are treated to a nice, cool shower.

It was a sad day for Reid Park Zoo staff. M’Bali, one of the oldest African lions in captivity, died on Wednesday, April 28. He was almost 23. “He had a long, wonderful life here,” says Alisha, one of his keepers. “He taught me about providing care for geriatric animals and I am proud of the quality of life we were able to provide until the end. I’ll miss him tremendously.” The entire animal care staff agreed it was time to let him go, and he was euthanized Wednesday morning.

Pedal your way to the Zoo on Saturday, April 17 and show your bicycle helmet at the front gate for one free admission!  Valet bike parking will also be available.  Bike to the Zoo Day is part of the annual Tucson Earth Day Festival in Reid Park.