Como Zoo Conservatory
1225 Estabrook Drive Saint Paul, MN 55103
Get ready to howl with excitement as we celebrate Wolf Awareness on October 19 and 20! This fun, family-friendly event will immerse you in the world of wolves, just in time for National Wolf Awareness Week (October 20–26). Join us from 10 AM to 4 PM both days for exciting activities that bring to life the vital role wolves play in maintaining the balance of our ecosystems.
9/21 – Just a little paws for some serious cuteness! 🐯💤 Our tiger cubs are practicing their snooze skills…
Hope you got to sleep in, or maybe you can catch a catnap later, on this #Caturday! 😴
📷: Senior Keeper Jill, and Zookeepers Hans and Caitlin.
9/17 – New video! Wakey Wakey, it’s bath time!
We are thrilled to announce the birth of two critically endangered Amur tiger cubs on the morning of August 29th. These cubs—a male and a female—are the first tigers born at Como Zoo in more than 41 years, marking a historic and exciting moment for the zoo and its conservation efforts.
The cubs’ mother, Bernadette, is 7 years old and was born on September 14, 2016, at the Milwaukee County Zoo in Wisconsin. She joined Como Zoo from the Oregon Zoo in October 2023. The father, Tsar, is 11 years old, born on July 6, 2013, at the Sedgwick County Zoo in Kansas. Tsar has been a resident of Como Zoo since February 2019. This is the first time both Bernadette and Tsar have become parents.
The pairing of Tsar and Bernadette was made following a breeding recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Amur Tiger Species Survival Plan (SSP), a program dedicated to the management and conservation of Amur tigers in accredited institutions across the country. With a gestation period of approximately 104 days, the arrival of these cubs offers new hope for this critically endangered species.
“This is an extraordinary milestone for Como,” said Michelle Furrer, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s Director. “The birth of these tiger cubs is not only a testament to the dedication and expertise of our animal care team but also a beacon of hope for the conservation of Amur tigers worldwide. We look forward to sharing their growth and milestones with everyone who visits Como Park Zoo & Conservatory.”
Both mother and cubs are in good health and will remain in their private, calm maternity den for the next few months. This period is crucial for mother-cub bonding and for the cubs to grow strong enough to explore their outdoor habitat safely. Zookeepers and veterinary staff are monitoring the new family closely via cameras, observing Bernadette being a diligent and attentive mother—cleaning, feeding, and keeping the cubs warm.
“These cubs represent a significant success for the Amur Tiger Species Survival Plan and for the future of the species,” said Wes Sims, Director of Animal Care & Health at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. “Our team is incredibly excited about the birth of these two tiger cubs, especially since they are the first offspring for both parents. It’s a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team that these amazing animals have successfully bred in our care.”
While Bernadette and her cubs will remain off-exhibit for some time, Tsar will continue to be visible to visitors in his habitat. We will provide regular updates on Bernadette and her cubs through our social media channels, offering the public a chance to follow along as the cubs grow.
Amur tigers, also known as Siberian tigers, are the largest tiger subspecies, with males reaching up to 400 pounds. They once roamed across Siberia but are now confined to a small region around the Amur River in the Russian Far East. With fewer than 500 individuals remaining in the wild, they face critical threats from habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.
In addition to celebrating the birth of these cubs, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory also seeks to enhance its facilities through a proposed Big Cat Habitat project. This initiative represents a significant opportunity to advance Como’s mission of education and conservation. The project aims to improve the welfare of these majestic creatures while providing visitors with more enriching and immersive experiences. The habitat will include ADA and energy efficiency upgrades, ensuring accessibility for all community members. Como is actively seeking funds through a State Bonding appropriation to bring this project to life and ensure future generations can continue to connect with these ambassadors of their species.
Fall Flower Show 2024
September 27 through October 27 and November 1 through November 16, 2024
Sunken Garden will be closed for the mid-show change October 28 – October 30
While many Minnesota gardens are winding down for the winter season, the Sunken Garden at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory will be in full bloom! Part one of the Fall Flower Show features a sunset color scheme of yellow, white, orange, and purple chrysanthemums. Dwarf sunflowers, swiss chard, and ornamental peppers accent the show.
Part two fall show inspired by Como Zoo lions, Mumford and Maji, will be a golden color scheme. Chrysanthemum selections will include gold, white, red, and bicolor red/yellow. Accent plants include leonotis aka lion’s tail, ornamental peppers, soft grasses, and swiss chard.
The Sunken Garden will be closed beginning November 17th until January 12th, 2025 as we install ramps to improve accessibility and ensure a more enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Sponsoring a garden is a unique way to keep the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory growing strong. Your donations help to plant thriving gardens, grow new programs, and preserve the Conservatory’s historic character for generations to come. Find out more by clicking HERE.
We are overjoyed to announce the arrival of an irresistibly cute new member to our animal family—a male Nyala calf born on the evening of Monday, September 16, to proud mother Stevie. Weighing in at a healthy 14.1 pounds, this little guy wasted no time getting on his feet, standing within just 20 minutes of birth!
This marks Stevie’s second calf with father Stanley, who sadly passed away earlier this year on January 28. The couple’s first offspring, Meadow, was born in January 2024. The new calf is already drawing curiosity from his big sister Meadow, who Senior Zookeeper Jill Erzar says is “very curious about her little brother, but incredibly gentle and respectful.”
Nyala, a species of spiral-horned antelope native to southern Africa, are known for their striking chestnut coats, adorned with white stripes and spots. The males develop impressive spiral horns and a darker coat as they mature. These graceful animals thrive in woodland and thicket habitats and can often be seen grazing in groups in the wild.
Visitors can catch a glimpse of the Nyala family most days in their habitat at Como Zoo. Fun fact: the gestation period for Nyala is 210-230 days, meaning baby Nyala calves spend about seven months growing before making their big debut into the world!
Come by Como and say hello to our latest arrival! Stay tuned for an official naming announcement coming soon.
Stanley and Stevie arrived at Como in 2023 on a Species Survival Plan (SSP) breeding recommendation. You can read more about SSPs here: https://www.aza.org/species-survival-plan-programs
Explore Como Park Zoo & Conservatory without the crowds at this fun scavenger hunt – and support the plants and animals you love at Como!
Purchase Como Quest General Admission Tickets HERE
9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
$20 per ticket
Como Quest is a team activity! Tickets are sold individually so you can build a team of any size. Your team includes all adults and children who are participating in the event. Children ages three and under participate for free. For the best experience, we recommend teams of 4-6 players per team.
Your Como Quest ticket will allow you to create the team of your choice through the Goosechase scavenger hunt app. The scavenger hunt will run from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. the day of the event. A link to set up your Goosechase team will be emailed the week of the event. Looking for more information on Goosechase now? Head to their website to find out more.
While Como Quest is great for kids of all ages, adventurers under 4 years old can take on the Cubs Quest, a paper scavenger hunt availalbe at the event tailored to the smallest explorers.
All players will enjoy a family-friendly mix of hands-on activities, games, and crafts for kids at Como Quest, all included in the cost of your ticket. You’ll also have the opportunity to support Como by purchasing a Mystery Bag, participating in additional fun-filled fundraising games, and donating to the Como Quest Fund-a-Mission.
We know and appreciate that the gardens at Como are a popular destination for Homecoming photos. But, in order to allow free-flowing foot traffic and provide an enjoyable experience for all our guests, any and all types of posed photography and/or group photography are not allowed during our public hours, which are 10am – 6pm everyday.
We invite you to rent the gardens before or after public hours for all photography needs. Contact us at (651) 487-8250 or comoweddings@ci.stpaul.mn.us for more information and pricing. We do require at least two-weeks-notice for us to book a photo shoot.
The Photo Policy has been established for the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, Ordway Gardens, and Tropical Encounters in order to allow free-flowing foot traffic and provide an enjoyable experience for all our guests. We invite you to take photos and videos at many of the other outdoor beautiful locations where a permit is not required. A temporary display has been created near the exhibit gallery for photos.
Definition of Posed Photography
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory defines posed photos as any photographer (amateur or professional) who places up to two people in a posed position for a photo. Examples of this would be prom, quinceañera, engagement, family, or wedding photos.
Definition of Group Photos
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory defines group photos as any photographer (amateur or professional) who gathers more than two people together. Examples of this would be prom, quinceañera, engagement, family, or wedding photos.
The thrill of the Paris Olympics may be over, but the excitement is just beginning at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory! We’re bringing the Olympic spirit to Como with a wild twist—introducing Zoolympics, a free, family-friendly conservation event that will have your little ones jumping, running, and competing like true champions. Mark your calendars for September 7 and 8, because this is an event you won’t want to miss!
We are delighted to announce the opening of Alex Heveri’s stunning “Glass In Flight 2” exhibit, a part of her renowned “Glass in Flight” series. This captivating collection, featuring enlarged steel and glass sculptures of butterflies, moths, dragonflies, beehives, humming birds, ants, and praying mantis, is now on display through Labor Day.
Renowned artist Alex Heveri’s masterful creations have enchanted audiences across America, celebrating the beauty and global importance of insects through her vibrant, oversized, and glittering sculptures. Each piece in the “Glass In Flight 2” exhibit is meticulously crafted, capturing the delicate elegance and intricate details of these winged wonders.
“We are thrilled to host Alex Heveri’s ‘Glass In Flight 2’ exhibit at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory,” said Michelle Furrer, Director of Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. “This exhibit perfectly complements the natural beauty of our gardens and provides an inspiring experience for all who visit.”
Guests can stroll amongst the large sculptures and encounter these exquisite glass pieces, each creating a harmonious blend of art and nature.
In addition to the exhibit, Como Park Zoo and Conservatory offers a variety of educational programs and activities designed to inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world. “Glass In Flight 2” is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and admission is free, though donations are appreciated to support the ongoing conservation and educational efforts at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory.
Still some summer left for summer camps! Our camp season runs through August 30th. Click HERE for all the information!
We are saddened to announce that Horace the Corpse Flower has completed his brief but unforgettable bloom at the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. Born from a rare and noble lineage of Amorphophallus titanum, Horace captured our hearts and noses with his extraordinary presence.
Horace first emerged at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, with genetic roots tracing back to the lush jungles of Sumatra. In 2019, he found his home at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, where he patiently grew and gathered strength for his magnificent bloom.
On May 23, 2024, Horace’s long-awaited moment arrived. Standing tall and proud, he unfurled his impressive spathe, revealing a striking maroon interior and emitting the infamous scent of rotting flesh that both repelled and fascinated visitors. For 24 to 36 hours, Horace held court in the North Garden, drawing crowds who marveled at his unique beauty and pungent aroma.
Horace’s bloom was a rare and special event, a testament to the wonders of nature and the delicate balance of our ecosystem. Though his scent has faded and his bloom has ended, the memories he created will linger long after his petals have closed. Horace will now retire behind the scenes, resting and preparing for a potential future bloom, likely years from now.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who visited, waited in line, and tuned in to the live stream to witness Horace’s spectacular display. Horace’s bloom reminded us all of the incredible diversity and mystery of the natural world. He will be missed but not forgotten. Rest well, Horace, until we meet again.
FRIDAY, MAY 24 UPDATE:
Well folks, it’s been a blast sharing Horace’s bloom with all of you. But, as they say, all good things must come to an end. Horace has finished blooming, and the smell has faded.
We’ll be moving him back behind the scenes at the end of today (Friday), where he’ll rest until the next bloom, likely years from now.
A big thank you to everyone who came out and waited in line, and to those who tuned in to the live stream.
THURSDAY, MAY 23 UPDATE
The response to Horace has been incredible! To give guests a heads up on wait time, here is what has been reported:
1 Hour in the Palm Dome
2 Hours on the Covered Porch
3 Hours on the sidewalk to the Visitor Center
4 Hours at the Japanese Garden gate
The line will be stopped at 4pm on 5/24. The line may be stopped earlier to accommodate closing procedures and evening events. We apologize for any inconvenience.
TUESDAY, MAY 21 UPDATE
MONDAY, MAY 20 UPDATE
Thanks to all the plant people who made it out this weekend, and our apologies that you did not get to see this guy opening up! Still watching and waiting. We measured the bloom at 52” this morning so there was a bit more growth overnight. We think the bloom could be today…or the next day?! Did we also say that a couple days ago? Yes. 😊
FRIDAY, MAY 17 UPDATE
Horace was successfully wheeled into the North Garden this morning. Big thanks to our maintenance department for fabricating a dolly to facilitate the move. Now he can stay on display and not stink up anyone’s wedding!
The measurement this morning was 49.5” so he does continue to grow, but not as fast. This is one sign that the bloom is imminent. Another sign we are seeing this morning is that the front bract is drying and loosening. This part will fall open before the spathe unfurls. Now we are suspecting that the bloom day will be before Sunday, perhaps there is even a chance it will be today! It’s hard to know for sure so we will be watching…
TUESDAY, MAY 14 UPDATE:
Today Horace measured in at 46.5” so the spadix is continuing its steady upwards growth. It won’t break any height records, but it is still pretty impressive to see the growth rate continue.
Plans are underway to get the plant to another location before the busy weekend so folks can continue to visit between 10 and 6 daily and check in on the live feed.
We are looking for the spathe (the ruffled part that will open) to start showing the dark maroon coloring seen on most of these blooms. Another way the plant tricks its pollinators into thinking they have found rotting meat!
We still think May 19 is the likely bloom-by date and the unfurling usually occurs in the afternoon or evening. Then the smell persists, coming and going somewhat with the heating up of the spadix, for the next 12 hours or so. After that the bloom will eventually collapse, after just another couple of days. Then we will bring the plant behind the scenes again to be repotted and hopefully gather energy for another future bloom!
This plant is not related to the two that bloomed at Como previously. Those plants, named “BOB” and “BOB, too” are no longer with us.
FRIDAY, MAY 10 UPDATE:
You may have seen (or heard on MPR) our fabulous Horticulturalist Jen, who is the main caretaker of Horace. If not check it out here: https://www.mprnews.org/story/2024/05/08/malodorous-corpse-flower-bloom-como-park-zoo-conservatory
We’ve asked Jen to keep everyone up to date on Horace. Here is today’s update!
Here is the latest on Horace, the Corpse Flower sensation taking the botanical world by storm at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory! Horace’s growth spurt continues at a speedy 2.5 to 3 inches a day – talk about plant power! Today, we took out the measuring tape and found him stretching to a whopping 38 inches. But hold onto your gardening gloves – there’s more!
We noticed Horace’s ruffled spathe slightly moving away from the central spadix. I have been grateful to be able to consult with Stephen Jones at the United States Botanic Garden who has grown many corpse flowers. Despite our excitement, Stephen assures me we’ve still got about another week of suspense before the big bloom.
And here’s a juicy tidbit for you plant enthusiasts: we received not one, but two of these peculiar plants back in 2019. While Horace steals the spotlight, his sibling is playing it cool behind the scenes. The second one has not yet bloomed and is not even actively growing at this point. They both come from seeds from the same parent plants that were started at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden.
THURSDAY, MAY 9 UPDATE:
Get ready for the ultimate floral drama – our Corpse Flower is gearing up for its big moment after 7 years of suspenseful growth! Last fall, we gave its massive corm a fresh pot after its towering 8-foot leaf bid us farewell. Now, the inflorescence has emerged, reaching a whopping 35.5 inches as of this morning. We’re betting on a blooming extravaganza by May 19th, but you know how these plants like to keep us guessing!
As we eagerly anticipate the grand reveal, our eyes are peeled for the spadix, that central spike, to keep stretching skyward at a speed of about 3 inches per day. Meanwhile, the spathe – that ruffled outer layer – will soon dazzle us with its deep maroon hues. While our bloom might not break any height records (yet!), expect a modest 5 to 6-foot spectacle – still impressive, right?
Stay tuned for the stinkiest show in town! As we approach the big day, likely around May 19th, prepare for a nose-crinkling aroma that peaks late in the evening, just when you least expect it. We’ll keep you posted on all the fragrant developments – hold onto your noses!
MAY 6, 2024:
Get your nostrils prepared for an olfactory adventure like no other! We are thrilled to announce that our very own Corpse Flower, scientifically known as Amorphophallus titanum and affectionately nicknamed “Horace” after landscape architect Horace Cleveland, is gearing up for a rare and pungent bloom.
This captivating event will mark the first bloom for Horace since arriving at Como in 2019. You can catch a glimpse of this botanical marvel up-close in Como’s Exhibit Gallery daily from 10am – 6pm. If you can’t make it to Como to see (or smell) Horace, tune in via a live camera feed available above. Watch as Horace unfurls its massive, unbranched inflorescence and emits its distinctive scent of rotting flesh, all from the comfort of your own screen!
Hailing from the island of Sumatra in Indonesia, the Corpse Flower is a true spectacle of nature. With fewer than 1,000 individuals remaining in the wild, witnessing its bloom is a rare opportunity. This endangered plant’s lifecycle is as fascinating as it is peculiar, with a lengthy period of dormancy followed by the emergence of a large leaf that can reach towering heights of up to 15 feet. When the time is right, the plant produces its infamous flower, attracting carrion fly pollinators with its heat and aroma.
Join us at Como as we celebrate this remarkable botanical event and raise awareness about the importance of preserving endangered species and their habitats. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or just looking for an unforgettable experience, don’t miss the chance to witness the Corpse Flower in all its malodorous glory!
Instead of buying a bouquet for Mom, make memories with Mom at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory!
COMO offers stunning venues to hold corporate events, meetings, birthday parties or weddings
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