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The Living Desert

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Palm Desert, CA
The Living Desert

🦏 600+ Desert Animals
🌱 1,200+ Desert Plant Species
🏜️ 80+ Local and Global Conservation Initiatives
(14843)

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a nonprofit, accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, ensuring the highest standards of all aspects of animal care, education, conservation, public service, and operations. The Zoo is active in conservation research, habitat protection, breeding programs and education initiatives around the world, as well as in its own community. The Zoo has

been a top destination in the Palm Springs area for 50 years. The Living Desert is located at 47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260. Follow us on our other social media channels:

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http://www.livingdesert.org

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http://twitter.com/livingdesert

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https://www.instagram.com/thelivingdesert/

For more information about The Living Desert, please visit our website at www.livingdesert.org

01/18/2025

We go wherever deserts need defending!

This week, our President/CEO, Allen Monroe, was honored to attend a historic moment at the White House: the proclamation creating the Chuckwalla National Monument.

This designation protects over 624,000 acres of land in the Mojave and Sonoran deserts, south of Joshua Tree National Park. These protected areas will include several key sites where The Living Desert has been conducting vital on-the-ground conservation work for many years. By restricting new development, this designation ensures the preservation of vital habitats and supports crucial initiatives led by The Living Desert and our partners to reintroduce species once lost to the region, such as the Sonoran pronghorn, the critically endangered desert tortoise, and desert pupfish.

This landmark achievement in conservation was made possible by the tireless, years-long efforts of Tribal Nations, federal and state officials, and local community members.

We’re proud to stand with our partners in protecting these incredible desert ecosystems — today and for generations to come. 🧡

01/12/2025

Incoming: 2,500 pounds of good news 🦏🎉

We’re thrilled to share that Nia has returned to the Rhino Savanna habitat after her successful surgery! 💚

Thanks to the expertise of our world-class veterinary and animal care teams, as well as support from some incredible visiting consultants, Nia’s journey to recovery has gone extremely well. During her time recovering behind the scenes, she worked with her care team and voluntarily participated in her post-op health care, received special enrichment, and even had some visits from Jaali, the male black rhino, across the barn.

Now fully healed, Nia has returned to her regular routine on habitat. Be sure to keep an eye out for her when you explore the savanna — or better yet, meet her up close by joining one of our Rhino Encounters!

Drop a comment to welcome her back! (We promise to read her every one 😉)

01/08/2025

To our neighbors and friends being affected by the devastating fires, please know that all of us at The Living Desert are thinking of you and are sending hugs your way.

Stay safe and take care. ❤

01/05/2025

The Acrisure Arena is about to get WILD!
🦏 🐆 🦅

Join us for the World Desert Day Takeover this Wednesday at the Coachella Valley Firebirds game.

01/01/2025

Anyone else? 👀

#2025

12/31/2024

2024 was the year of the boop — nose down! 🐽 Swipe for a replay of our top boopable moments.

Who’s your top boop? Cast your vote below! 👇

12/23/2024

Can we talk about how emus are completely overlooked in the list of birds from 𝘛𝘩𝘦 12 𝘋𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘮𝘢𝘴? 🎄

These two-toed giants can grow up to 6 feet tall and weigh 80–120 pounds, making emus the second-largest bird in the animal kingdom. !🦤

Maybe it's time to remix the holiday playlist and give emus some love!

12/21/2024

Making a list, sniffing it twice!🎅

What did you ask Santa Paws for this year?

12/16/2024

You know what they say about the holidays… if you like it, then you shoulda put a wreath on it!🎄💚

12/13/2024

As some of you may know, Nia, the black rhino, has been receiving ongoing care for an undiagnosed chronic tissue ailment under her jaw since before she arrived at The Living Desert. From her first day here, our veterinary and animal care teams have been dedicated to ensuring her comfort and wellbeing.

When a past procedure confirmed the issue was not dental, our team continued to explore all available avenues and treatments. Yesterday, December 12, we took another significant step in her care journey by bringing together a team of world-renown specialists and expert consultants from across the country to treat the issue and learn more about its root cause.

The procedure was successful, and Nia is responding well. During the coming weeks, she will remain behind the scenes so she can be closely monitored by her care team.

🦏❤ Stay tuned for updates as we remain committed to providing her with the very best care — and send her some love in the comments!

12/07/2024

Can we just say we're de𝘓𝘐𝘎𝘏𝘛ed? WildLights has been named one of the 𝗧𝗼𝗽 𝟱 𝗕𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗭𝗼𝗼 𝗟𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗡𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗔𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮 by USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards! 🎉

That’s SIX years in a row in the top 10. Thank you to everyone who has included us in your holiday traditions. 🦒✨🎄

Haven't made it out yet? Good news! You still have a few more weeks to experience the magic — but hurry, tickets are going fast!

Already visited? Share your favorite photos with us below! 📸

11/27/2024

Dear friends,  Yesterday, we said goodbye to Zoya, the much-loved Amur leopard, who, at the remarkable age of 21, was among the oldest of her species in the world.  Not only was she a cherished member of our Zoo family, she was also beloved by visitors from around the world. Many of you had a tradition of searching for her among the lush trees or seeing which of the tall rocks she was perched on during each visit.   On this eve of Thanksgiving, we reflect on Zoya’s extraordinary legacy with profound gratitude. We know she inspired countless people to develop a passion for wildlife and conservation, brought attention to a critically endangered species, and sparked joy in everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.  We are deeply thankful for Zoya’s devoted care team, who provided her with exceptional care each and every day. Her longevity is a testament to their expertise and dedication. And, finally, we are grateful to you — our community — for sharing in Zoya’s journey and ensuring her legacy will endure.  In Zoya’s honor, we will be taking a pause on posting for a few days. We wish you a peaceful Thanksgiving, and we hope you join us in giving thanks for Zoya and the joy she brought to our world.  If you’d like to share your favorite memories of Zoya or kind words with our animal care and veterinary teams, we invite you to leave a message in the comments or visit Zoya’s habitat, where cards will be available for you to sign.

11/23/2024

It's beginning to look a lot like... 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗟𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀! 🌟

The Valley's favorite tradition returns and the holiday magic is off the charts! Come explore the Zoo after dark and enjoy the larger-than-life light displays, seasonal cocktails, wintertime treats, and endless photo opportunities!

𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿-𝗢𝗻𝗹𝘆 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗡𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁: November 25
𝗦𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗡𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀: November 26–December 30
𝗔𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝘆 (𝟭𝟴+) 𝗡𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁: December 19

🎟️ Tickets start at just $19.95 for adults (18+) and $15.95 for children (3–17). Don’t miss out on this spectacular holiday event — get all the details and tickets at 𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘁.𝗼𝗿𝗴/𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗟𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀

11/23/2024

This rock hyrax has some unexpected relatives in the animal kingdom. Any guesses? 🧐

No cheating! Drop your guesses down below!

📸: Team Member, Shareyah C.

11/21/2024

𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴: The following photos may cause excessive "aww"ing and uncontrollable smiles.

𝘝𝘪𝘦𝘸𝘦𝘳 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘥. 🐈🥱

11/18/2024

Certified 10/10 snoot! 🦘🤎

Address

47900 Portola Avenue
Palm Desert, CA
92260

Opening Hours

Monday	8am - 5pm
Tuesday	8am - 5pm
Wednesday	8am - 5pm
Thursday	8am - 5pm
Friday	8am - 5pm
Saturday	8am - 5pm
Sunday	8am - 5pm

Telephone

+17603465694

Website

http://www.LivingDesert.org/

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Videos

POV: You’re Cordelia’s snack. 👀🍇 Just kidding — she’s after something much tastier! (And while we’re here, can we just take a moment to appreciate this beautiful beak?🤩) Abyssinian ground hornbills use their powerful beaks to hammer and dig for food. They can even use them as tongs to catch venomous snakes and pluck fruit from trees with ease! #🐦 #BirdistheWord #Hornbill

Incoming: 2,500 pounds of good news 🦏🎉 We’re thrilled to share that Nia has returned to the Rhino Savanna habitat after her successful surgery! 💚 Thanks to the expertise of our world-class veterinary and animal care teams, as well as support from some incredible visiting consultants, Nia’s journey to recovery has gone extremely well. During her time recovering behind the scenes, she worked with her care team and voluntarily participated in her post-op health care, received special enrichment, and even had some visits from Jaali, the male black rhino, across the barn. Now fully healed, Nia has returned to her regular routine on habitat. Be sure to keep an eye out for her when you explore the savanna — or better yet, meet her up close by joining one of our Rhino Encounters! Drop a comment to welcome her back! (We promise to read her every one 😉)

Did somebody say omNOMNOMnivore? That’s right! White-nosed coatis are omnivores and eat a diverse diet, including fruits, insects, and yes — eggs! 🥚🦡 📹: Team Member, Natalie E. #Eggciting #ASMR #Coati

Happy ZOOlidays from all of us at The Living Desert! 🐪 🐱 🦘

‘Tis the season to be Jaali! 🦏 Born five years ago, on Christmas Eve, Jaali’s name means “powerful” in Swahili. But, we also think it suits his sweet, jolly nature perfectly. Join us in wishing him a very happy birthday! 🥳

Now this is what we call a catwalk! 😉🐱 📹: Team Member, Hannah V. #FelineFierceness #Catitude #ClawsCouture

Greetings from the Rhino Barn! We know you are eager for an update on Nia, and we’re excited to share she is doing exceptionally well. She is enthusiastically engaging with her care team, eagerly munching on her favorite browse, and, of course, snoozing. Jaali, who’s been exploring both sides of the Rhino Savanna, has even stopped by to offer a friendly rhino “hello.” Our team is deeply grateful for all the kind words and support. We’ll continue to share updates as Nia’s recovery journey unfolds. Stay tuned!

✨ Don’t wait to experience the holiday magic — WildLights is back this weekend! ✨ Recently named one of USA Today’s Top 5 Zoo Lights of 2024, WildLights is a must this holiday season. Presented by the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation, WildLights offers the unique opportunity to: 🎄 Marvel at 3 million twinkling lights as you explore the African section of the Zoo and visit some of your favorite animals. 🎁 Snap a photo with Santa and strike a pose underneath the dazzling displays. ✨ Enjoy live entertainment, cozy up with s’mores, and, for guests 21+, sip on festive cocktails. The magic won’t last forever — plan your holiday adventure at WildLights today! 🌟

🦒 + 🎃 = 😋 What are you chowing down on this Thanksgiving? Drop your comments down below!👇 📹: Team Member, Heather S. #Giraffe #GourdTime #Thanksgiving

You may know Florence, the ostrich, for her antics, such as sneaking snacks alongside the giraffe. But, did you know she has two fellow feathered-friends named Milan and Pisa? 💛🌟 #Besties #TallAndBeautiful #FlorencetheOstrich

𝘗𝘢𝘸𝘴 for a moment with Rose and Sage — just a little cuddle session to brighten your day! 🐱💞 #Awwwtumn #Pawsome #Caturday

𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀! 📺

Have you ever wondered what goes on behind-the-scenes at The Living Desert? This Saturday, November 9, tune in to CBS’s 𝘔𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘜𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘱𝘱𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 with Miranda Cosgrove to find out! Our very own Heather Down, Animal Care Curator, will take viewers inside the behind-the-scenes Desert Carnivore Conservation Center (DC3) here at the Zoo to share her passion for conservation and the powerful role that small — but mighty — cats play in the desert ecosystem.😺 𝘔𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘜𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘱𝘱𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦, one of CBS’s top-rated kids’ shows, inspires young girls to explore STEM careers, featuring trailblazers in fields like engineering, biology, computer science, and zoology. 🧡 Tune in and celebrate the wonder of small desert cats. Can’t make it live? You can also stream the episode on Paramount Plus! CBS Dream Team Mission Unstoppable #MissionUnstoppableTV #Awwwtumn #BlackfootedCat #SandCat #STEM

The Living Desert

01/18/2025

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01/08/2025

01/05/2025

01/01/2025

12/31/2024

12/23/2024

12/21/2024

12/16/2024

12/13/2024

12/07/2024

11/27/2024

11/23/2024

11/23/2024

11/21/2024

11/18/2024

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