Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

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Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Empowering People. Saving Wildlife. This page was created to interact with the Zoo’s many supporters and continue our mission: "Empowering People.

Saving Wildlife." We welcome you to post questions, comments, photos and concerns. Please note, this is a moderated online discussion and our moderators use these guidelines to ensure community posts are suitable for all readers. We acknowledge and respect a range of opinions and points of view as long as they comply with the following rules.

• The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium reserves the right to

hide, delete and/or report posts that contain defamatory, malicious, threatening or vulgar communication.
• In addition, personal attacks of any kind or offensive comments that target, discriminate or disparage any ethnic, racial, s*x, gender identity, s*xual orientation, national origin, age, disability or religious group will not be tolerated and will be removed.
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• If a user violates these guidelines, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium reserves the right to ban and block the individual from continuing to post on our page. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to direct message our page or email us at [email protected]. Thank you for your cooperation and we look forward to sharing Zoo news, photos, special offers and more while having an open dialogue with our fans, members and supporters.

09/06/2024

The Columbus Zoo is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Rwandan Fete this year! Guests look forward to attending year after year, and we’d like to invite YOU to this year’s festivities on September 21. So, what has money raised by this celebration accomplished? Here are just a few:

🔸 Built a library with computer access at the Bisate Primary School
🔸 Paid the annual salaries for three veterinarians who provide lifesaving medical care to eastern gorillas in their native ranges
🔸 Provided over 40 scholarships for community members who help with gorilla conservation efforts to attend college.

And, what’s in it for you?
🔸 An incredible dinner
🔸 A Rwandan marketplace full of fair-trade items
🔸 A gorgeous setting, perfect for any family, couple, or group of friends
🔸 A chance to hear about the Zoo’s Partners In Conservation team and their impact in East Central Africa

Tickets are limited, and you can reserve yours at https://www.columbuszoo.org/rwandan-fete

09/06/2024

Exciting News for Manatees!

In celebration of International Manatee Day (September 7), we’re thrilled to announce an amazing new partnership between Clearwater Marine Aquarium and Columbus Zoo and Aquarium! Together, we have launched the Wider Caribbean Manatee Alliance (WCMA), a powerful international network that will connect manatee conservation experts across the Caribbean to secure a brighter future for these gentle giants and their coastal ecosystems.

Manatees face many challenges, from habitat loss to boat collisions and climate change, and some populations are critically endangered. But the WCMA is on a mission to change that. The Alliance will strengthen manatee conservation, support sustainable coastal management, and expand scientific research to protect these amazing animals and their habitats across 20 countries, including Puerto Rico, Cuba, and Belize.

Each participating organization and country involved brings specialized knowledge to ensure the Alliance's success. The Columbus Zoo contributes through its expertise in manatee care, veterinary services, rehabilitation, financial support, and educational content development, and the partnership aligns with the Zoo's mission of "Empowering People. Saving Wildlife."

“The Wider Caribbean Manatee Alliance (WCMA) will be of great importance in the conservation of the American manatee throughout the Caribbean basin,” said Antonio Mignucci-Giannoni, director of Centro de Conservación De Manatíes del Caribe. “We are eager to contribute to and support its development and implementation.”

We’re so excited to see what this partnership will achieve, and we invite all manatee lovers to join us in supporting this effort. Together, we can make a difference for manatees and their beautiful coastal homes. Learn more about the Wider Caribbean Manatee Alliance at https://www.columbuszoo.org/wider-caribbean-manatee-alliance

09/05/2024

We are so excited to welcome guests to visit the newly-reopened Claudine André Indoor Bonobo Habitat while at the Columbus Zoo! But hey, it’s been a while … so let’s re-introduce you to our beloved bonobos.

Meet Jimmy! Jimmy is the oldest of the Columbus Zoo's bonobos and can be distinguished by his salt-and-pepper coloration. Much like Susie, Jimmy is also one of the last wild-born bonobos living in the United States, which means his exact birthday is unknown, but is estimated to be in 1979. As a wild-born bonobo, his offspring are invaluable to the diversity of bonobos in professional care. Despite his age, Jimmy has a youthful personality and enjoys playing with the younger members of the troop. He is also the Sire of six bonobos, including Donnie and Max, who are both in Columbus with him.

Bonobos have been part of the Columbus Zoo's family since 1990. As a critically endangered species, with estimates suggesting that 5,000-50,000 remain in their native ranges, the Columbus Zoo plays a crucial role in global conservation efforts. Habitat destruction, bushmeat hunting, and the illegal pet trade have all contributed to their decline. For more information about bonobos, and to learn more about our conservation efforts, visit https://www.columbuszoo.org/animals/bonobo

09/05/2024

A NEW ADOPT Spotlight option that's “otter” this world starts on September 13!

Don't forget: We are ALSO having a year-long ADOPT special to celebrate 50 years and 50 more! Any Western lowland gorilla donation of $50 or more will include a 9” plush made from recycled materials, a personalized certificate, fact sheets, a photo, and free shipping and handling. 100% of the donations support the wellbeing of the Western lowland gorillas in our care. Visit https://www.columbuszoo.org/adopt-animal for more information about the ADOPT program and both adoption packages.

Symbolically adopting an animal for a friend or loved one is a unique and special gift that will be cherished by the animal lover on their birthday, holiday, or anniversary. Your choice to give this unique and special gift is greatly appreciated and valued.

09/04/2024

Our Lantern Festival has been a HUGE hit...thank you to the thousands of Columbus Zoo members and guests who have spent an evening with us so far!

The Lantern Festival is an event that begins after the Zoo closes for the day...the lanterns are the true stars of the event! While the animals in our care take a rest during the evening hours, the focus of the Lantern Festival is to provide an additional opportunity for friends and family to create new memories at the Zoo.

This special event is only here for a few more weekends and concludes on September 29, so get your tickets soon! (P.S. Your ticket includes event admission, free parking, select rides, live theater performances, and endless photo opportunities)

Tickets: https://www.columbuszoo.org/lantern-festival

09/04/2024

Now that it’s officially September, we can finally talk about fall… and at the Columbus Zoo, there’s no fall without Boo at the Zoo! 🎃🧛🏼

Gather your ghouls and goblins and join us this year for three weekends of merry-not-scary fun! This year, Boo at the Zoo will begin on Friday, October 11, and will run through Sunday, October 27, 2024. Boo at the Zoo is included with your regular Zoo admission ticket or a Columbus Zoo membership.

For all of the spook-tacular fun, visit https://www.columbuszoo.org/boo-at-the-zoo

09/03/2024

Did you know that Humboldt penguins, like Charmin here, are black and white to help camouflage themselves? Or that they can dive close to 200 feet and hold their breath for 2-4 minutes?

Surely, there’s lots you don’t know about penguins, as well as a lot of the other animals here at the Columbus Zoo. But don’t worry, that’s what Keeper Talks are for! Keeper Talks, presented by Fifth Third Bank, give guests the unique opportunity to learn from Animal Care team members as they present fun, informative sessions about the species they care for daily. This includes learning about their respective habitats, diets, behaviors, and conservation.

Keeper Talks are included with your Zoo admission and are weekends only now through October 27. For more information and to find our complete Keeper Talk schedule, please visit https://www.columbuszoo.org/keeper-talks

09/03/2024

Experience the Columbus Zoo's Lantern Festival like never before with an exclusive VIP tour! 🌟🏮

Starting tomorrow and continuing on Wednesday nights throughout the month of September, you and your group can enjoy the entire Zoo and Lantern Festival to yourselves! Admire stunning animal-shaped lanterns while riding through Adventure Cove, Conservation Lake, Asia Quest, and Shores—all from the comfort of a VIP golf cart.

For more information and to book your VIP golf cart, visit https://www.columbuszoo.org/tours/lantern-festival-vip-tour

09/02/2024

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is OPEN today from 9am - 6pm, and there's plenty to see and do! Get your Day Pass at https://www.columbuszoo.org/hours-and-rates or at the main gate.

09/01/2024

ATTENTION HIGH SCHOOLERS!

There is only one month left to gather your team and submit your Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Teen Eco Summit applications! Together, you and 4-6 of your classmates can create a Conservation Action Plan to create sustainability and conservation changes in your school and community. Need some ideas? The possibilities are endless and can include things like:

👚 Organizing clothing swaps
🌍 Starting an "Eco Month" with different focuses each week
♻️ Pairing with your school building, district, or even community partners to start a recycling program
💡 Changing stadium lighting to LED bulbs
🌱 Starting a pollinator garden at your school or in your community

For more information and to get started, visit https://www.columbuszoo.org/teen-eco-summit

09/01/2024

This International Primate Day, we’re being demure and very mindful … about the products we use daily.

Did you know that one of the ways you can help contribute to the conservation of primates, such as bonobos, orangutans, gorillas, gibbons, and colobus monkeys, is by committing to using only sustainable palm oil?

The primary threat for the habitats of many primates is deforestation for palm oil plantations. Since the palm oil industry provides benefits and income to the people living in the areas where it is farmed, boycotting it altogether is not the best option. However, by purchasing products from companies committed to using only sustainable palm oil, we as consumers can help drive the palm oil industry in the right direction.

Join us in celebrating all of our primates today and also in committing to their conservation through mindful, sustainable shopping habits.

08/31/2024

We know you love our Keeper Talks, presented by Fifth Third Bank. Which one is your favorite?

🐯 Tigers
🦁 Lions
🐻 Bears
🐨 Koalas
🦧 Orangutans
🐧 Penguins

Let us know in the comments! Keeper Talks run every weekend through October 27. Find the entire schedule at https://www.columbuszoo.org/keeper-talks !

08/30/2024

We are so excited to welcome guests to visit the newly-reopened Claudine André Indoor Bonobo Habitat while at the Columbus Zoo! But hey, it’s been a while … so let’s re-introduce you to our beloved bonobos.

Meet Susie! Susie is the oldest female bonobo at the Columbus Zoo and is greatly respected by the rest of the group. She is one of the last wild-born bonobos living in the United States, which means her exact birthday is unknown, but is estimated to be in 1981. As a wild-born bonobo, her offspring are invaluable to the diversity of bonobos in professional care. Susie came to Columbus from a European zoo and is a mother to five total, including her son, Donnie, and daughter, Bertie, who are both in Columbus with her.

Bonobos have been part of the Columbus Zoo's family since 1990. As a critically endangered species, with estimates suggesting that 5,000-50,000 remain in their native ranges, the Columbus Zoo plays a crucial role in global conservation efforts. Habitat destruction, bushmeat hunting, and the illegal pet trade have all contributed to their decline. For more information about bonobos, and to learn more about our conservation efforts, visit https://www.columbuszoo.org/animals/bonobo

08/30/2024

When you thought the end of August would bring fall air... then step outside to 90 degree weather.

08/29/2024

Already planning a group trip to the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival? Make it even more fun and purchase your own Lantern Festival VIP Tour!

On the Lantern Festival VIP Tour, you and your group will get to experience the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival from the comfort of a VIP cart, which can accommodate four, six, or ten riders. Over the 1.5 hour tour, you’ll be taken down guest paths and through Adventure Cove, Conservation Lake, Asia Quest, and Shores.

Kick back your feet and get ready to leave with lifetime memories and some truly amazing photos! These tours will book quickly, so reserve your golf cart soon at https://www.columbuszoo.org/tours/lantern-festival-vip-tour

08/29/2024

Something BIG is happening at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and we couldn’t wait to share the news with you! We’ve got a surprise that’s sure to delight our Zoo family and conservation supporters alike. This marks a first in the Zoo’s history, and it’s all about one of the world’s most beloved—and endangered—species.

Curious? Watch the video below to see what’s in store for our elephants and why we’re so excited for the year ahead! Want to learn more? Head to https://bit.ly/3Mq3ARC

08/28/2024

So, what’s included in the Columbus Zoo’s Lantern Festival, happening now through September 29?

✔️ Jaw-dropping live performances in Lakeside Theater
✔️ Complimentary parking
✔️ Select Adventure Cove and Zoo rides like Tidal Twist, the historic carousel, and Havoc Harbor
✔️ Select animal habitats

This is a separate event from regular Zoo admission, but discounted tickets are available if you want to experience both! Members of the Zoo, Zoombezi Bay, and The Wilds also receive discounted admission. Get your tickets at https://www.columbuszoo.org/lantern-festival

08/28/2024

Did you know male Oriente knight anoles, such as this guy, have a colorful pink or orange flap of skin under their chin called a dewlap, which extends and is used to scare off predators and attract mates? It’s true!

Oriente knight anoles, also sometimes called Cuban knight anoles or Cuban giant anoles, are named for their native range in the Oriente province of the southeastern part of Cuba. They move their eyes like a chameleon and have toes like a gecko.

This specific 4.5-year-old Oriente knight anole pictured is particularly picky and changes his preference of favorite food very regularly. He also has a preferred Animal Care team member here at the Columbus Zoo, whom can feed him using tongs.

08/27/2024

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is proud to announce the grand opening of the Claudine André Bonobo Indoor Habitat, which marks a significant milestone in the Zoo's ongoing commitment to animal wellbeing, wildlife conservation, and education.

The new indoor bonobo habitat is more than just a space; it’s a dynamic, living environment that fosters natural behaviors and encourages exploration. Highlights of the new indoor habitat include:

▪️ Increased vertical space (26 feet total) with pathways and climbing/swinging opportunities
▪️ Three-foot-deep mulch biofloor for the bonobos’ additional comfort
▪️ Increased HVAC capacity and building modifications to provide high humidity, the ideal condition for bonobos
▪️ Redesigned behind-the-scenes rooms to accommodate the complex social structure of the species and their preferences throughout the day

The official opening was celebrated on August 27 with a ceremony featuring Zoo leadership and other community leaders, as well as Claudine André, founder of Friends of Bonobos. Because of her significant contributions to the conservation of bonobos, the Columbus Zoo has dedicated this new space in her name.

Please join us in celebrating this accomplishment for bonobo conservation and be sure to visit the new habitat on your next visit to the Zoo!

08/26/2024

Ever wish you could go behind the scenes at the Columbus Zoo and feel like a marine life expert? If so, check out our NEW Manatee Conservation Center Tour!

On the Manatee Conservation Center Tour, you’ll have the unique opportunity to see firsthand how the Columbus Zoo is making a difference for Florida’s manatee population, including manatees like Stubby, the beloved “Aquatic Queen” of the Zoo. Additionally, you’ll get to enjoy an exclusive glimpse into the dedicated care provided to our pelicans, fish, rays, and cherished resident sea turtle; all animals who share their habitat with manatees.

This new tour is proudly presented by Nationwide and will leave you endlessly inspired by seeing our conservation efforts in action. To learn more, visit https://www.columbuszoo.org/tours/manatee-conservation-center-tour

08/26/2024

Tomorrow’s the big day!

Join us after 12:00pm tomorrow, August 27, and help welcome our bonobos to their new indoor habitat, the Claudine André Bonobo Indoor Habitat.

Did you know that bonobo societies are matriarchal? In bonobo groups, the oldest son of the dominant female is the highest ranking male in the group, and he will hold this rank as long as his mother is the dominant female or until her death. The more dominant females tend to be the older females in the groups.

Learn more about our bonobos and see our female-led groups for yourself by visiting them in our Congo Expedition region tomorrow. We can’t wait for you to see them all again!

08/26/2024

School is back in session! Looking for an extra way to get involved with conservation and sustainability this year? Take part in the Columbus Zoo’s Teen Eco Summit!

Teen Eco Summit is a free, student-driven program that hosts over 300 students excited to create sustainability and conservation changes within their schools and communities. Teams composed of four to seven high school students and one advisor will attend the Kickoff Event at the Zoo in November, create and implement a Conservation Action Plan throughout the school year, and attend the Celebration Event in the spring.

The Teen Eco Summit is presented by Battelle. Applications are open NOW through October 1. To register and for more information, please visit https://www.columbuszoo.org/teen-eco-summit

08/25/2024

Did you hear? Bonobos are back!

Starting August 27 at noon, guests will once again be able to view these beloved great apes here at the Columbus Zoo in both their outdoor habitat as well as the new Claudine André Bonobo Indoor Habitat, which will officially open that day.

Along with seeing your favorite bonobos, you’ll also have the first chance to see some new faces, including Nadine, Kibibi, and our youngest bonobo, Bob! Be sure to stop by and to give them a warm welcome. To learn more about bonobos before your visit, visit https://www.columbuszoo.org/animals/bonobo

08/25/2024

Hey … Hey you … Yes you … I heard you’re thinking about coming to the Columbus Zoo soon.

Don’t forget to visit me. Coco. In Heart of Africa.

Okay that’s all. Thanks 😊

08/24/2024

It’s Asian Elephant Awareness Month, and we’re featuring the Columbus Zoo’s resident giants throughout August to celebrate. Last, but not least, meet Phoebe! 🐘

Phoebe is Frankie’s mom and the matriarch to the herd. She is the best mom and is very attentive to her herd, often staying active and keeping track of the other elephants. Phoebe has taught all her calves how to swim, and even gave Frankie a swimming lesson after he was already in the pool swimming!

Did you know there are ten times fewer Asian elephants than African elephants? With habitat loss and human activity threatening their existence, these elephants need our help now more than ever. By visiting the Columbus Zoo, you support vital conservation efforts worldwide, and together, we can secure a future for these magnificent creatures.

Led by The Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ SAFE program, Asian Elephant Awareness Month is important for understanding the conservation needs of Asian elephants. Learn more about how you can help at https://www.aza.org/safe-species. Their trunks are in our hands.

08/23/2024

Thinking about peanut butter and honey … probably. After all, it is his favorite!

Did you know that, using rewards like peanut butter and honey, our sloth bears Randhir and Heidirose are trained to help participate in their own care? This includes voluntary blood draws, an “open mouth” behavior, and scale training!

According to his Animal Care team, Randhir is always ready to go, and even if he doesn’t feel very motivated for training at first, he’s still super helpful and voluntarily gives all the behaviors that the team asks of him in the name of his health and wellbeing. Now that’s a beary good sloth bear. 😊

To learn more about Randhir and his personality and training, read our sloth bear blog at https://www.columbuszoo.org/blog/bear-necessities-meet-sloth-bears-columbus-zoo

08/23/2024

The wait is over…the Columbus Zoo’s new Claudine André Bonobo Indoor Habitat is opening next week!

Make plans to visit the Zoo’s Congo Expedition region on August 27, and be one of the first guests to marvel at this new indoor habitat, as well as the bonobos’ existing outdoor habitat, starting at noon.

Bonobos, known for their reconciliation behaviors and cooperative female-led social structures, are among the rarest great apes in the world, with only 5,000 to 50,000 estimated to remain in the wild. Native to the equatorial forests of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, these endangered great apes are facing severe threats in their native range, from habitat destruction to bushmeat hunting. The Columbus Zoo is one of only a few organizations in North America to house bonobos and is actively involved in global conservation projects aimed at protecting this species in their native range.

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has a long-standing partnership with Friends of Bonobos, the conservation organization that created the world’s only bonobo sanctuary, located in the DRC. Since 2000, the Zoo has provided over $500,000 in support of the organization’s rescue, rehabilitation, rewilding, and educational programs. In 2013, Claudine André, the organization’s founder, received the Columbus Zoo’s inaugural Commitment to Conservation Award. Because of her contributions to bonobos, the Columbus Zoo has also dedicated the new indoor habitat in her name and honor.

This is also your first chance to meet the youngest bonobo in the troop, Bob, who was born in November 2023, as well as two new bonobos to the Columbus Zoo, Nadine and Kibibi! Want to learn more about them all during your visit? Find the sign in the habitat and scan the QR code to learn about each bonobo on your mobile device.

Get your Day Pass to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium at www.columbuszoo.org

08/22/2024

Join us in protecting what’s precious! Be a part of our efforts to conserve East Central Africa’s wildlife and uplift its communities. 🌏

Over the years, our annual Rwandan Fête event has played a crucial role in supporting the Columbus Zoo’s Partners In Conservation, focusing on:
◾Gorilla and Wildlife Conservation
◾Community Empowerment
◾Habitat Conservation and Protection

By attending the Rwandan Fête on September 21, you can contribute to this important work and make a difference in East Central Africa.

Tickets are limited—don’t miss out! Secure yours now and invest in the future. Visit https://www.columbuszoo.org/rwandan-fete to reserve your spot.

08/22/2024

After a little less than a year away, two beloved male gorillas, JJ and Kamoli, have returned to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium!

In early November 2023, JJ and Kamoli moved to Zoo Atlanta while some construction was underway at the Columbus Zoo. When they were in Atlanta, JJ and Kamoli were very well cared for and continued their growth as adolescent males who will eventually become silverbacks that may eventually lead troops of their own. Here in Columbus, they will continue to remain as a bachelor troop as they continue this process. From the beginning, it has always been the hope to welcome JJ and Kamoli back to the Columbus Zoo, and we are so happy to have them here again!

We cannot thank Zoo Atlanta enough for taking such great care of these boys. We have enjoyed collaborating as collective organizations accredited by The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) to prioritize the wellbeing of these incredible animals.

Next time you’re visiting our Congo Expedition region, be sure to welcome back JJ and Kamoli!

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Videos

Something BIG is happening at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and we couldn’t wait to share the news with you! We’ve got a surprise that’s sure to delight our Zoo family and conservation supporters alike. This marks a first in the Zoo’s history, and it’s all about one of the world’s most beloved—and endangered—species. Curious? Watch the video below to see what’s in store for our elephants and why we’re so excited for the year ahead! Want to learn more? Head to https://bit.ly/3Mq3ARC

A look back at yesterday’s Claudine André Indoor Bonobo Habitat dedication. Speakers Tom Schmid, President and CEO of the Columbus Zoo; Jan Ramer, Senior Vice President of Animal Care and Conservation; and Claudine André, conservationist and wildlife advocate; shared what the new space means for both the Columbus Zoo and the future of the conservation for bonobos. We are so excited to have this indoor habitat officially open and look forward to continuing conservation efforts with @lolayabonobo for years to come.

We are still so in awe and so excited about our new baby weedy seadragons (also known as “fry”)! Senior Aquarist Aaron, also known as the “dragon dad” among our Animal Care staff talks about what it was like to work with the weedy seadragons and be there throughout the breeding process. As previously mentioned, the baby seadragons are not currently able to be viewed by guests and will be raised for at least one year behind the scenes, where Animal Care and Conservation Medicine staff, like Aaron, will continue to provide care for the delicate babies. In the meantime, enjoy this precious footage of the fry ❤️

We had so much fun celebrating all our favorite felines 🐾🐅🦁 Thank you to our Animal Care team for all their creativity and hard work to make this day so special 🧡

Starting TONIGHT ✨🏮They’re beautiful during the day, but you haven’t seen anything until you see these stunning lanterns shine at night. Will we see you there? #lanternfestival #columbusohio #cbus

Meet Saul, one of the Columbus Zoo zookeepers in the Austrailia and the Islands region! Throughout this week, we’ve been highlighting different zookeepers around our Zoo to help celebrate National Zookeeper Appreciation Week, and to learn from them about what being a zookeeper means. We are so lucky to have such a committed and professional staff, who endlessly demonstrate compassion, expertise, and passion in everything they do. Thank you, Saul, for all of your hard work, and thank you to everyone who’s shown our zookeepers love throughout this week! ❤️

Exciting news! The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has just achieved a major milestone by earning accreditation from the International Marine Animal Trainers’ Association (IMATA) through their prestigious Animal Trainer Development Program. This remarkable honor recognizes the Zoo's top-tier systems for training animal care teams using positive reinforcement, underscoring their leadership in wildlife conservation. IMATA, dedicated to the humane and professional care of marine animals, ensures facilities provide cutting-edge educational opportunities, modern training techniques, and expert management. The Zoo’s Wild Encounters Pinnipeds team, caring for nine sea lions and four harbor seals, was specifically reviewed and celebrated for their outstanding training programs that enhance animal health and enrichment. This is the first IMATA accreditation for the Zoo, highlighting the team's exceptional skills and commitment. Visitors can experience this world-class training firsthand during the Sea Lion Training Tales presentations. Congratulations to our Wild Encounters Pinnipeds team, and celebrate with us as we continue to achieve excellence in animal care!

Meet Kevin and Moe, two of the Columbus Zoo zookeepers in the Australia and the Islands region! Throughout this week, we’ve been highlighting different zookeepers around our Zoo to help celebrate National Zookeeper Appreciation Week, and to learn from them about what being a zookeeper means. We are so lucky to have such a committed and professional staff, who endlessly demonstrate compassion, expertise, and passion in everything they do. Thank you, Kevin and Moe, for all your hard work!

Meet Katie, one of the Columbus Zoo zookeepers in Adventure Cove and Jack Hanna’s Animal Encounters Village! Throughout this week, we will be highlighting different zookeepers around our Zoo to help celebrate National Zookeeper Appreciation Week, and to learn from them about what being a zookeeper means. We are so lucky to have such a committed and professional staff, who endlessly demonstrate compassion, expertise, and passion in everything they do. Thank you, Katie, for all your hard work!

Meet DeDe, one of the Columbus Zoo zookeepers in The Barn and North America region! Throughout this week, we will be highlighting different zookeepers around our Zoo to help celebrate National Zookeeper Appreciation Week, and to learn from them about what being a zookeeper means. We are so lucky to have such a committed and professional staff, who endlessly demonstrate compassion, expertise, and passion in everything they do. Thank you, DeDe, for all your hard work! The Barn is proudly presented by @bobevansgrocery

Meet Erin, one of the Columbus Zoo zookeepers in Polar Frontier and North America! Throughout this week, we will be highlighting different zookeepers around our Zoo to help celebrate National Zookeeper Appreciation Week, and to learn from them about what being a zookeeper means. We are so lucky to have such a committed and professional staff, who endlessly demonstrate compassion, expertise, and passion in everything they do. Thank you, Erin, for all of your hard work!

Beat the summer heat and chill out with all your favorite animals at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium! The Animal Care team works hard to provide the animals with many different choices to help keep them cool, and there’s a lot for you to experience, too. From elephants bathing in their habitats to polar bears plunging into chilled pools, you'll find lots to see and do. Plan your trip today at https://www.columbuszoo.org/today.

And we can’t blame you, it’s cool! Our Dinosaur Island boat ride is OPEN 🦖🦕

Penguin Preschool

Get ready...We're about to show you the most adorable video you'll see all day: Penguin Preschool! Learn more about how our Animal Care teams work with baby penguins to ensure they're comfortable in the water! That includes swim lessons and time for ZOOmies, too. 🐧

Tree Kangaroo Crunch-a-thon at the Columbus Zoo

Today is World Tree Kangaroo Day! There are a few ways you can celebrate and help raise awareness: 1. The Columbus Zoo is participating in the International Tree Kangaroo Crunch-a-thon! Check out this audio to hear them crunching, munching, and chewing loudly. 2. At the Columbus Zoo today? Swing by the Tree Kangaroo habitat at 1pm for a free Keeper Talk! 3. Follow AZA SAFE: Tree Kangaroo of Papua New Guinea on Facebook for year-round education and fun. When it comes to wildlife conservation, there is hope, thanks to supporters like you.

Making Moves at the Columbus Zoo

With rapid growth on the way for Columbus and central Ohio, we're making big moves at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium! Hear updates on our successful spring season, our brand new bonobo habitat, the incredible transformation of our historic North America region, and the beauty of UNEXTINCT, as told by our President and CEO, Tom Schmid.

Join us for Zoofari 2024

Last call for exclusive access to a private virtual event with Nikki and team on May 22 by securing your Zoofari tickets by May 15! Central Ohio's premiere philanthropic party, Zoofari, will be held this year on June 22 at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Enjoy a night of music, dancing, comedy, performative art, great food, tasty drinks, laughing, and of course, animal ambassadors! Get your tickets at https://www.columbuszoo.org/zoofari Kindly note that the link to the virtual event will be sent to the email address used for purchasing your Zoofari ticket. Zoofari is proudly presented by Fifth Third Bank.

Get Ready for Zoofari 2024!

Who doesn't love otters?! They're one of many animals receiving new habitats during the redevelopment of our North America region. 👷 🏗️ 🚧 And you can get a personalized update on the progress! Gain exclusive access to a private virtual event with Nikki and team on May 22 by securing your Zoofari tickets by May 15. Central Ohio's premiere philanthropic party, Zoofari, will be held this year on June 22 at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Enjoy a night of music, dancing, comedy, performative art, great food, tasty drinks, laughing, and of course, animal ambassadors! Get your tickets at https://www.columbuszoo.org/zoofari Kindly note that the link to the virtual event will be sent to the email address used for purchasing your Zoofari ticket. Zoofari is proudly presented by Fifth Third Bank.

Gain exclusive access to a private virtual event with Nikki and team on May 22 by securing your Zoofari tickets by May 15! Central Ohio's premiere philanthropic party, Zoofari, will be held this year on June 22 at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Enjoy a night of music, dancing, comedy, performative art, great food, tasty drinks, laughing, and of course, animal ambassadors! Get your tickets at https://www.columbuszoo.org/zoofari Kindly note that the link to the virtual event will be sent to the email address used for purchasing your Zoofari ticket. Zoofari is proudly presented by Fifth Third Bank.

Get Ready for Zoofari 2024!

Want a personalized update on the habitat construction for the Columbus Zoo's wolves and black bears? Gain exclusive access to a private virtual event with Nikki and team on May 22 by securing your Zoofari tickets by May 15! Central Ohio's premiere philanthropic party, Zoofari, will be held this year on June 22 at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Enjoy a night of music, dancing, comedy, performative art, great food, tasty drinks, laughing, and of course, animal ambassadors! Get your tickets at https://www.columbuszoo.org/zoofari Kindly note that the link to the virtual event will be sent to the email address used for purchasing your Zoofari ticket. Zoofari is proudly presented by Fifth Third Bank.