

Crazy About Cats Weekend! February 15-17
Join us at for our monthly Wild Conservation Weekend, happening February 15-17, as we go “Crazy About Cats”!
Join us at for our monthly Wild Conservation Weekend, happening February 15-17, as we go “Crazy About Cats”!
Savor a romantic, candlelit gourmet dinner featuring a fresh salad, a hearty double entrée, a delectable dessert, and two glasses of wine or beer per person, all enjoyed in the cozy, enchanting ambiance of the gardens inside the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory. This one-of-a-kind dining experience will be held on February 13, 14, and 15.
Music Under Glass offers a unique experience of wandering through the tropical gardens at dusk, providing a warm escape from the winter cold while enjoying live performances by local musicians. These free concerts take place in the Sunken Garden, where, due to fire code regulations, seating is not provided. However, the music is simulcast into other areas of the gardens where additional seating is available. While the zoo closes at 4:00 p.m., the Conservatory remains open for guests to enjoy the concert. Beer and wine are available for purchase to enhance the evening experience.
An Update on Horace the Corpse Flower!
Remember Horace, the superstar corpse flower that had everyone lining up for a chance to catch its infamous bloom this summer? Well, we have a Horace update for you as it takes on a very different form!
Behind the scenes in our tropical greenhouse, Horace has entered its vegetative stage. Instead of that dramatic, smelly bloom, Horace has sprouted one massive leaf that looks like an entire tree. Believe it or not, this giant leafy structure is still just one single leaf – hollow, surprisingly fragile, and branching out like nature’s coolest umbrella.
In the photo, you can also spot Horace’s corpse flower sibling to the left, still resting in its pot of soil, patiently waiting for its turn to shine.
This incredible leaf will likely last for about a year before dying back. Horace will need to go through a few more cycles of leaf growth and dormancy (senescence) before treating us to another bloom in a few years. The life cycle of these plants is fascinating – and we’re thrilled to share this journey with you!
While Horace is behind the scenes for now, we’ll keep you updated on all the exciting developments. Stay tuned for more leafy wonders!
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory congratulates Director Michelle Furrer on her appointment as the next President and CEO of Myriad Gardens Foundation and Scissortail Park Foundation in Oklahoma City, effective March 1, 2025.
Michelle has been an integral part of Como’s success since joining in 2006 as its first-ever Marketing Manager. In 2009, she became Director and has since led Como through a period of remarkable growth and transformation. Under her leadership, Como has seen the completion of major projects including Gorilla Forest, Como Harbor, The Ordway Gardens, and Centennial Garden, while increasing earned revenue, enhancing visitor experiences, and achieving record-breaking attendance. Her innovative vision and dedication to connecting people with nature have ensured Como remains a vibrant and accessible destination for all.
“Como has been my home for nearly two decades, and it has been an absolute honor to lead this beloved institution,” said Michelle Furrer. “I am so proud of what we’ve accomplished together—from creating world-class exhibits to fostering connections between our community and the natural world. While it is bittersweet to say goodbye, I am excited to begin this new chapter and bring my passion for urban green spaces to Myriad Gardens and Scissortail Park. Como will always hold a special place in my heart.”
“Michelle’s leadership, creativity, and unwavering passion have shaped Como into what it is today,” said Andy Rodriguez, Director of St. Paul Parks & Recreation. “Her impact is evident in every corner of Como, and while we will miss her immensely, we are excited for the incredible opportunities that await her in Oklahoma City.”
In her new role, Michelle will oversee the management and strategic direction of Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park—two premiere urban green spaces in Oklahoma City—continuing her legacy of fostering community connections through nature, education, and accessibility.
While Michelle’s departure marks an important transition, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory remains deeply committed to its mission of education, conservation, and providing free access to the natural world for all. Plans for leadership succession are underway, and Como looks forward to building on the strong foundation Michelle has helped create.
***PRE-PAID ADMISSION TO THE WINTER CARNIVAL ORCHID SHOW IS REQUIRED TO ENTER THE CONSERVATORY ON JANUARY 25 AND 26.*** Those coming just to visit the Conservatory’s gardens will still need to purchase a ticket for this weekend.
Step into the magic of the season at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s Winter’s Blooming Wonderland, a dazzling holiday exhibit that opens today and runs through January 6, 2025!
Located on the Visitor Center’s Porch, Winter’s Blooming Wonderland is a celebration of the season, brimming with hundreds of vibrant poinsettias, lush ivy, begonias, snapdragons, bromeliads, ferns, Italian Cypress trees, and so much more. This one-of-a-kind display combines winter’s natural beauty with sparkling decorations and festive charm to create a cozy, enchanting experience perfect for all ages.
This special exhibit is a must-see as it’s only available this year! In 2025, the Sunken Garden will unveil exciting new accessibility enhancements, including ramps to ensure every guest can fully enjoy our seasonal flower shows.
Whether you’re gathering with friends, planning a holiday family outing, or looking for a stunning venue, Winter’s Blooming Wonderland delivers unforgettable moments. For an extra-special touch, the space is available for private cocktail parties, weddings, receptions, and family photos before and after Como’s regular hours. Email comoweddings@ci.stpaul.mn.us for booking details.
Don’t miss your chance to bask in the glow of Winter’s Blooming Wonderland, a unique holiday experience that will make your season magical. Admission is free, and donations are always welcome to support Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s commitment to education, conservation, and accessibility.
Visit us soon, and let Winter’s Blooming Wonderland add wonder to your winter celebrations!
North America’s oldest male polar bear, Neil, turned 29 on Dec. 9, while Nan celebrated her 30th, tying as one of the oldest females! Their party included cupcakes, decorated barrels, and plenty of fun—5-year-old Kulu kept the celebration going, playing with the barrels!
Step into Como’s Fern Room and prepare for a journey back 75 million years! Stroll through a prehistoric soundscape filled with calls from dinosaurs and creatures that once roamed ancient forests. Listen for sounds created by an instrument, custom built by UMN paleontologists, that mimic the haunting calls of the hadrosaur Parasaurolophus! See if you can spot some of Cretaceous critters hiding among the ferns!
These Free Programs Require Advanced Registration
SENIOR STROLL AND SUNSET SENIOR STROLLS
Senior Strolls and Sunset Senior Strolls are special times set aside just for those 55-and-better. This is an opportunity to visit the Conservatory for a leisurely walk before or after our busy normal business hours, as well as special activities and guests. This event is a great opportunity for Seniors to enjoy a less crowded experience that encourages being active and social with some adult learning to spice it up. Advanced registration is required. Click HERE to register and for more information and dates.
SENSORY FRIENDLY MORNINGS
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is an energetic, colorful place full of sensory stimuli, and we know this environment can be overwhelming for some guests. We invite individuals on the autism spectrum and their families to join us one hour before opening to the public, from 9am-10am, and spend time exploring exhibits at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. Advanced registration is required. Click HERE to register and for more information on Sensory Friendly MorningsXXX
The Sunken Garden will be closed until mid-January as we install ramps to improve accessibility and ensure a more enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Below is an artist’s rendering.
Read more about the Sunken Garden closure by clicking HERE
While there will be no Holiday Flower Show this year, we are excited to have you visit our free, onetime exhibit you won’t want to miss on the Visitor Center Porch December 5 – January 6. Click HERE for details.
And....
The Japanese Garden will be closed beginning September 19th, and reopen in 2025.
HONEYWELL AND COMO PARK ZOO & CONSERVATORY PARTNER TO SUPPORT SAINT PAUL’S CLIMATE ACTION GOALS
Upgrades to the zoo are expected to save up to $1.8 million in energy and operational costs
Honeywell and Como Park Zoo & Conservatory today broke ground on an expansive automation and energy efficiency project that will help advance the City of Saint Paul’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality for city operations by 2030 and citywide by 2050, while also helping to reduce operating costs. The project will focus primarily on deploying more sustainable equipment and new control strategies in the Primates, Polar Bear and Administration buildings at the zoo and conservatory to support enhanced comfort for animals, visitors and staff.
The Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is the largest energy user in the city’s portfolio with energy costs surpassing $1 million per year. Working with Honeywell’s Building Automation team, the City of Saint Paul is expected to realize up to $1.8 million in energy and operational cost savings over the next three years, through major improvements being made to its HVAC and water heating systems. LED lighting upgrades, mechanical system updates and building management systems are also part of this project to more effectively manage onsite energy usage throughout the entire campus.
“Honeywell has extensive experience in improving and optimizing automation and building efficiency in complex projects around the world,” said Sudhakar Janakiraman, President of Honeywell Building Automation’s Building Solutions segment. “Working with the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory gave us the opportunity to partner with them on their sustainability goals while enhancing a beloved landmark in Saint Paul and safeguarding the zoo’s most valued residents – the animals.”
Updates being made to the Primates and Polar Bear buildings include:
“We are proud to partner with Honeywell to install a geothermal energy system in our city at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory,” said Melvin Carter, Mayor of Saint Paul. “This investment will provide heating and cooling for our plants and animals year-round, ensuring a fantastic and more sustainable guest experience for the years to come.”
“This project is a significant step forward in Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship,” said Michelle Furrer, Director of Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. “By partnering with Honeywell, we are not only aligning with the City of Saint Paul’s climate action goals but also helping to ensure that our facilities continue to support the well-being of our animals and the comfort of our visitors. These upgrades will help us reduce our carbon footprint, enhance energy efficiency, and contribute to a better future for our community.”
Funding for the project was made possible through congressionally directed spending through the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, State of Minnesota bonding funds and the City of Saint Paul’s Common Cent Program. The “Common Cent” is a voter-approved, one-cent increase in the local sales tax and is estimated to collect $1 billion over 20 years, with funds being invested into improvements to the city’s regionally significant roads and nationally acclaimed parks and recreation facilities. The one-cent increase to the local sales tax was implemented April 1, 2024. About $738 million is allocated for street improvements and about $246 million is allocated for parks and recreation facilities improvements.
Honeywell has guaranteed $9.5 billion in energy and operational cost savings for more than 3,400 projects globally to date. This project adds to that effort. It also demonstrates Honeywell’s alignment of its portfolio with three compelling megatrends, including automation, the energy transition and future of aviation.
For more information on Honeywell’s Building Automation solutions, visit www.buildings.honeywell.com.
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Get ready for a weekend of fun as we swing into Orangutan Caring Week with a celebration of all things ape at Como! Enjoy exciting activities including ape zookeeper talks, banana gardener talks, crafts, and games.
Weekend Highlights:
Special Sunday Treat!
Join the Children’s Theatre Company at noon for a fun, interactive story theatre performance of Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! and meet the Grinch himself for a holiday surprise!
Make a Difference – Recycle Your Old Cell Phone, iPod, and other Small Electronics!
While you can recycle your old devices throughout the year, Gorillas on the Line … Answer the Call is an annual global mobile phone recycling challenge organized by the Gorilla SAFE engagement team with participants from across the country and around the globe. Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is partnering with the Gorillas on the Line Campaign to collect cell phones and other small electronic devices that will be shipped back to ECO-CELL to be recycled.
Join Como Zoo in saving gorillas:
Bring your phones to Como Zoo to recycle
ANY kind of cell phone will be accepted – even the big, heavy ones from years ago that wouldn’t come close to fitting in your pocket now. Along with cell phones, we are also accepting iPads, iPods, tablets, apple watches, adapters, chargers, mp3 players, handheld gaming systems, and headphones. For each cell phone received, a donation will be made to Como Friends, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s partner in conservation.
You can drop your cell phone off with any member of the Como Team or deposit it in the collection bin in the Visitor Center.
Come monkey around with us for a weekend full of fun and conservation!
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Orangutan photo credit Steve Solmonson
October 16, 2024
Como Zoo Names Amur Tiger Cubs: Marisa and Maks
Two long-time volunteers chose names for the critically endangered tiger cubs.
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is thrilled to announce the names of its two critically endangered Amur tiger cubs, born on August 29th. After much anticipation, the cubs—a male and a female—have been named “Marisa” and “Maks,” thanks to the thoughtful suggestions of two long-term volunteers who have been champions for Como for many years. These dedicated individuals have spent countless hours in the Large Cat Building, teaching the public about large cats and supporting the work of the zookeepers. Their contribution continues through this special opportunity to name the cubs.
The female cub has been named Marisa (mar-EES-ah), a name that the volunteers found to mean “spirited and tenacious”—a perfect reflection of her personality. The name also carries special significance for Como Zoo community, as it honors a retired Cat Zookeeper named Marisa, who was instrumental in the care of large cats during her 43 years at the zoo.
The male cub has been named Maks (max), a name often associated with meanings like “the greatest” or “strength and leadership.” The volunteers felt this was an apt description of the male cub’s confident demeanor and growing sense of leadership.
“It’s incredibly meaningful to have long-term volunteers, who have spent years educating the public about our large cats, help shape this important moment in the cubs’ lives,” said Michelle Furrer, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s Director. “Marisa and Maks aren’t just names; they’re a fun reminder of the passion and care that keep us committed to protecting wildlife every day”.
These cubs represent a significant success story for the Amur Tiger Species Survival Plan (SSP), a program of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) aimed at the conservation and management of this critically endangered species. The cubs’ mother, Bernadette, and father, Tsar, were paired following a breeding recommendation from the SSP, making this birth an essential part of ongoing efforts to preserve Amur tigers.
“This is a significant milestone for Como,” said Furrer. “The birth of these tiger cubs showcases the dedication of our animal care team, and the naming process has strengthened the bond between our animals, staff, and the amazing volunteers who work tirelessly to support Como Park Zoo & Conservatory.”
Both mother and cubs remain off exhibit and in their private maternity den, with the cubs continuing to bond and grow strong. In time, the public will have the chance to meet Marisa and Maks, but for now, Como will provide updates on their progress through its website and social media channels.
Background on the Parents Marisa and Maks are the first tiger cubs born at Como Zoo in more than 41 years. Their mother, Bernadette, is 7 years old, born at the Milwaukee County Zoo, and arrived at Como from the Oregon Zoo in 2023. Tsar, their 11-year-old father, was born at the Sedgwick County Zoo and has resided at Como since 2019. This is the first time both tigers have become parents.
The Big Cat Habitat Project In addition to celebrating the birth of the cubs, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is looking ahead to its proposed Big Cat Habitat project. This initiative aims to enhance the welfare of large cats at the zoo while providing visitors with immersive experiences. The project includes ADA and energy-efficiency upgrades, ensuring greater accessibility for all visitors. Como Zoo is actively seeking funding through a State Bonding appropriation to bring this vision to life and further support the conservation of these endangered animals.
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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.
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