May 2010

“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… read more

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

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… read more

Members are invited to enjoy the Zoo during cooler morning hours on Saturday and Sunday starting at 7:30am as Zoo Keepers are preparing for the day. Although the Zoo is not open to the general public until 9 a.m., members may catch a glimpse of keepers preparing and cleaning exhibits, plus feeding and caring for the… read more

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.