Zoo News

Just in time for Mother’s Day….a baby sloth at Como! ❤️

Como’s Browse Donation Program (and how you can help)!

Como Zoo is now accepting fresh browse donations to support the health and enrichment of our animals. Here’s how you can help:

What We Cannot Accept

• Any material treated with pesticides, herbicides, or chemical sprays.
• Toxic or unknown plant species.
• Large tree trunks, hollow logs, or oversized branches that cannot be safely handled.
• Wilted or dried material during the growing season (leafless is fine in winter).

Why Donations Matter

• Enrichment: Promotes natural foraging and chewing behaviors.
• Nutrition: Provides variety and healthy nutrients.
• Cost Savings: Reduces feed costs and supports sustainability.
• Community Engagement: Connects you directly to animal care at Como Zoo.

Questions? Email jill.erzar@ci.stpaul.mn.us

Frequently Asked Questions

Prom Photo Opportunities at Como

Make your prom photos unforgettable with a visit to Como’s beautiful outdoor spaces. Prom photos are not allowed inside the Conservatory or in any other indoor garden spaces during business hours.

On select dates, the Charlotte Partridge Ordway Japanese Garden will be open for posed prom photography, offering a dedicated space designed just for you and your group to capture the moment without the crowds.

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Free Weekend Shuttle Begins May 23!

Take the Stress Out of Parking – Ride the Free Weekend Shuttle!

**The Shuttle Will Operate Saturdays & Sundays May 23 -August 23**

Make your visit to Como Park Zoo & Conservatory even easier by taking advantage of our free weekend shuttle service, running Saturdays and Sundays from May 23 through August 23. Our convenient shuttle takes you directly from our off-site, staffed parking lot at 1930 Como Avenue to the front doors of the Visitor Center in just minutes—no circling for a spot or worrying about traffic.

The shuttle runs continuously from 9:45 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., so you can hop on and off at your convenience. Buses are wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it a great choice for families and guests of all abilities.

Skip the parking hassles and spend more time enjoying your day at Como. Whether you’re here for the animals, gardens, picnic, or just a relaxing stroll, the shuttle is a fast, easy, and stress-free way to get here.

📍 View the shuttle parking lot map here: Shuttle Map

Let us do the driving—see you on board!

For an interactive Saint Paul Bike Map click HERE.

Spring Into May at Como: New Flower Show, Extended Hours, Carousel Rides

Spring Into May at Como: New Flower Show, Extended Hours, Carousel Rides, and a Full Month of Events Begin May 1

There’s a lot happening at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory beginning May 1, as spring arrives in full color and a full calendar of events welcomes visitors of all ages.

Spring Flower Show Part II Opens May 1

Step inside the beautiful glass confines of the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory’s Sunken Garden for Part II of the Spring Flower Show, opening May 1 and running through June 7. This second display bursts with warm peachy-orange blooms accented by rich purples and blues. Highlights include Asiatic lily ‘Lava Joy,’ Calla lily ‘Havana,’ Hibiscus ‘Orange Sunset,’ peach-toned begonias, and accents of deep blue verbena, lobelia, and fragrant heliotrope.

Built in 1915, the Sunken Garden has been home to Como’s beloved seasonal flower shows since 1925. Today, the Conservatory presents seven unique flower shows annually, offering ever-changing beauty for residents and visitors alike.

Summer Hours Begin May 1

Also beginning May 1, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory transitions to summer hours, open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. through Labor Day, giving guests more time to explore the gardens, see the animals, and enjoy the grounds.

Cafesjian’s Carousel Opens for the Season on May 1

Cafesjian’s Carousel begins its 2026 season on May 1, operating Thursday through Monday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., weather permitting. This beautifully restored 1914 carousel—one of only three still operating with its original paint—features 68 hand-carved horses and two chariots inside a climate-controlled pavilion.

A ride on the Cafesjian Carousel offers timeless charm, joyful music, and a nostalgic experience for guests of all ages. The carousel operates five days a week through Labor Day and weekends through October.

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Other May Events at Como

Sensory Friendly Morning

May 2 | 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Designed for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, this special hour offers a quieter, less crowded zoo experience in a welcoming environment. (Sensory Friendly Mornings are on the zoo grounds only)

Photographer, Artist & Family Photo Morning

May 10 | 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Capture the beauty of the Conservatory before public hours during this peaceful, creative session. Guests may bring tripods, cameras, or easels. No registration required; $5 cash per person at the door.

Mother’s Day Bonsai Show

May 9 & 10 | 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a unique experience featuring stunning bonsai displays by the Minnesota Bonsai Society. Guests can explore a forest of miniature masterpieces and connect with experts throughout the weekend.

Senior Strolls

May 12 & 19 | 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
A relaxed, early-access experience for guests 55 and better to enjoy the Conservatory in a quieter, more social setting. (Senior Strolls is inside the Conservatory only. The zoo grounds are not open for Senior Strolls)

Prom Photo Opportunity in the Japanese Garden

May 2, 9, 16 | 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
The Charlotte Partridge Ordway Japanese Garden offers Prom-goers an opportunity to take posed photos in a beautiful outdoor setting. $5 per person (including photographers). This will be the only garden available for Prom photography. Prom photos are not allowed inside the Conservatory or in any other indoor garden spaces during business hours.

Como Town Opens for the Season

Beginning May 16, check website for hours. 
Como Town, the family-friendly amusement park located next to Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, opens for the 2026 season on May 16. With kid-sized rides and classic attractions, it’s a favorite destination for family fun in the Twin Cities.

Whether you’re planning a quick visit or a special celebration, Como Town offers an easy, joyful way to spend time together—right here in the heart of Saint Paul.

Free Shuttle Service Returns for the Season

Weekends Beginning May 23
Make your visit to Como Park Zoo & Conservatory even easier by taking advantage of our free weekend shuttle service, operating Saturdays and Sundays from May 23 through August 23, 2026. Shuttles will also run on Monday, May 25 (Memorial Day).

Our convenient shuttle transports guests from the off-site, staffed parking lot at 1930 Como Avenue directly to the front doors of the Visitor Center in just minutes—no circling for a spot or worrying about traffic.

The shuttle runs continuously from 9:45 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., allowing guests to hop on and off at their convenience. Buses are wheelchair and stroller accessible, making this a comfortable and convenient option for families and visitors of all abilities.

Red Cross Blood Drive

May 21 | 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is proud to host a blood drive in partnership with the American Red Cross.

Groovin’ In The Garden Free Summer Music Series June 10 – July 29

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Charlotte Partridge Ordway Japanese Garden now Open!

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is pleased to announce the reopening of the beloved Charlotte Partridge Ordway Japanese Garden.

One of the most serene and treasured spaces at Como, the outdoor garden invites guests to reconnect with nature through a landscape shaped by stone, water, plants, and tradition. Visitors can stroll winding paths, pause beside the pond and waterfall, admire historic lanterns, and experience the beauty of spring emerging throughout the garden.

The reopening comes as Como celebrates Earth Day this weekend with its annual Party for the Planet, a family-friendly event focused on conservation, sustainability, and appreciation for the natural world.

“Earth Day is about recognizing the beauty of our planet and the responsibility we all share to care for it,” said Erica Prosser, Director of Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. “The reopening of the Charlotte Partridge Ordway Japanese Garden is a wonderful reminder that nature renews itself each spring, and that even quiet places can inspire connection, reflection, and stewardship.”

A Garden Rooted in Nature and Tradition

In preparation for the season, the garden’s pines have undergone their careful spring tending, a practice rooted in Japanese garden tradition. Selective pruning and candling help guide healthy growth, preserve their sculptural form, and allow light and air to move gently through the branches. This attentive care helps ensure their strength and beauty through the summer months ahead.

Across the garden, early signs of life are beginning to emerge. Buds are forming, and soon a quiet drift of trilliums will spread across the ground. These graceful woodland flowers, members of the lily family, are known for their elegant symmetry—three leaves, three petals, three sepals—and for the patience they require. Trilliums grow slowly, sometimes taking years to bloom, yet can return each spring for decades. Their seeds are carried and planted by ants, a subtle natural partnership that helps shape the rhythm of their return.

Designed according to traditional Japanese garden principles and adapted for Minnesota’s climate, the Charlotte Partridge Ordway Japanese Garden also reflects the longstanding friendship between the Sister Cities of Saint Paul and Nagasaki.

Hours of Operation

The Charlotte Partridge Ordway Japanese Garden will be open daily beginning Saturday, April 25, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Beginning May 1, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory transitions to summer hours, and the Japanese Garden will be open daily until 6:00 p.m.

Admission to Como Park Zoo & Conservatory and the Japanese Garden is free, with voluntary donations appreciated.

For more information on the garden and its elements, click HERE

Remembering Mumford

It is with heavy hearts that Como Park Zoo & Conservatory shares the passing of Mumford, our beloved male African lion, who was peacefully euthanized in the care of his animal care team on Friday, April 24, 2026. He was 10 years old.

Many in our community may remember that Como Park Zoo & Conservatory shared in December that Mumford had been diagnosed with an untreatable tumor within his nasal sinuses and had entered hospice care. Since that time, his dedicated care team remained focused on providing comfort, dignity, and the best possible quality of life. When his condition declined, the compassionate decision was made to say goodbye peacefully, surrounded by the people who knew and loved him most.

A Life That Captured Hearts

Mumford was born on January 14, 2016, at Pueblo Zoo in Colorado, where he was deeply loved before arriving at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory on May 17, 2019.

From the moment he arrived in Saint Paul, Mumford became a favorite among guests, volunteers, and staff. With his handsome mane, regal presence, calm confidence, and unforgettable roar, he quickly captured hearts and became one of Como’s most admired animal residents.

Guests often found Mumford basking in the sunshine on his favorite perch, surveying his habitat, enjoying enrichment, or spending quiet time alongside his companion, Maji. Whether resting in the shade or announcing himself with a thunderous roar, Mumford had a way of making every visit memorable.

The Quirky Side of Mumford

Those who cared for Mumford also knew his playful and endearing side. One favorite memory came from Mumford’s zookeeper Caitlin, who shared this story about Mumford and one of his most treasured possessions:

“Mumford and his one true love, his comfort log. Mumford had a log, several feet long, that he would carry with him around the exhibit. He would even bring it into holdings, banging away as he tried to shove it through the doorways. And if we dared to get too close, Mumford would have words to say to us. He would growl at us, cover the log, and would protect it with his life.

Slowly but surely, he would gnaw away at its center, until one day it snapped in two. At first, it seemed like the end of an era and that the days of comfort log were behind us. But instead, his love remained just as strong as ever. He continued to carry the log with him wherever he went but now instead of 1 log, he had 2.

Such an adorable and quirky side of Mumford that many of us can relate to.”

Stories like this reminded everyone who knew him that behind Mumford’s majestic presence was a lion full of personality, preferences, and charm.

A Trusted Ambassador for Lions

Throughout his time at Como, Mumford helped inspire countless visitors to appreciate lions and learn more about the challenges they face in the wild. Through daily connections with guests, he served as an ambassador for his species and helped foster a deeper understanding of wildlife conservation.

Words from Those Who Knew Him Best

“Mumford had a wonderfully quirky personality that made him impossible not to love,” said Senior Zookeeper Jill Erzar. “He could be a bit of a goofball, sometimes tripping on his morning walk over and then acting like nothing happened. He would hyper-focus on favorite enrichment for days or even months, especially his beloved comfort log. He was always vocal when food was involved, and when he chose to roar, everyone noticed. He even let Maji push him off his favorite bench or rock. We thought we might be saying goodbye in December, so having these last four months with him was an extra gift.”

“Mumford inspired awe in so many people,” said Como Park Zoo & Conservatory Director Erica Prosser. “He represented the power and majesty of lions, but he also created moments of connection and wonder for guests of all ages. He will be deeply missed by our staff, volunteers, and the countless visitors who loved him.”

Moving Forward

Maji remains at Como and is being closely monitored by her care team during this transition.

Caring for animals brings both great joy and deep heartbreak. While we mourn Mumford’s passing, we are also filled with gratitude for the years we were able to know and care for him. His presence made Como a more special place, and his memory will remain with all of us.

We invite our community to join us in remembering Mumford and to keep his care team in their thoughts during this difficult time.

Credit all photos and video to Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

Party For The Planet April 25 & 26

Celebrate Earth Day Weekend & the reopening of the Japanese Garden

Honoring the spirit of Earth Day is part of our mission every day at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, where our annual Party for the Planet, powered by Xcel Energy is a two-day weekend celebration on April 25 and 26. Bring the family for a fun, hands-on weekend dedicated to pollinators, plants, and the power of community action.

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Upcoming Events At Como!

Spring Blooms, Creative Moments, and Earth Day Celebrations at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

Spring is coming to life at Como with a vibrant lineup of seasonal events, creative experiences, and family-friendly celebrations. Here’s what’s coming up:

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🌸 Spring Flower Show (Part I)

March 20 – April 26, 2026
Step into a floral paradise as the Spring Flower Show returns to the Sunken Garden in the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory.

Inspired by the myth of Persephone, this year’s show weaves together themes of renewal, love, and seasonal transformation. Expect a rich palette of creams and deep reds, with pomegranates and poppies influencing the design. Towering foxgloves, snapdragons, and Narcissus poeticus daffodils create a bold and immersive display that celebrates the beauty and complexity of nature’s cycles.

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🌿 Senior Strolls & Sunset Senior Strolls (55+ and Conservatory only)

March 24 | 4:30 – 6:00 PM
April 7 | 9:00 – 10:00 AM
April 21 | 4:30 – 6:00 PM
Enjoy a quieter, more relaxed Conservatory experience during these special hours designed for guests 55 and better. These strolls offer a chance to explore the gardens at a comfortable pace, connect with others, and enjoy light programming in a less crowded setting.

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🎨 Photographer, Artist & Family Photo Hours

March 28 | 8:00 – 10:00 AM
March 29 | 4:30 – 6:30 PM
April 19 | 8:00 – 10:00 AM
April 25 | 8:00 – 10:00 AM
Capture the beauty of the Conservatory before public hours during these peaceful, creative sessions. Perfect for photographers, artists, and families alike. Bring your camera, easel, or sketchpad and enjoy exclusive access to lush gardens and seasonal displays.

No registration required. $5 cash per person at the door. Enter through the Historic Entrance.

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🧩 Sensory Friendly Morning

April 4 | 9:00 – 10:00 AM (Zoo Only)
Designed for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, this special hour offers a quieter, less stimulating zoo experience. Explore at your own pace in a welcoming and comfortable environment.

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🌎 Party for the Planet powered by Xcel Energy

April 25 & 26 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Celebrate Earth Day weekend at Como with a fun, interactive event for all ages. Enjoy hands-on activities, crafts, keeper talks, and gardener presentations that highlight the animals, plants, and ecosystems that make our planet extraordinary.

Discover simple ways to make a difference, connect with nature, and celebrate Earth’s incredible biodiversity during this two-day event.

Extended *Monday* Hours Begin March 9

Starting Monday, March 9, visitors will have a little more time to enjoy two of Como’s most popular indoor destinations. The Marjorie McNeely Conservatory and Tropical Encounters will now remain open until 6:00 p.m. on Mondays. We will still be open 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Tuesdays – Sundays.

These extended hours on Mondays give guests more time to explore the Conservatory’s lush gardens and experience the incredible plants and animals inside Tropical Encounters after the traditional work and school day. The cafe and gift shop will be open as well.

Even more extended hours are just around the corner. Beginning May 1, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory transitions to its summer schedule, with the Zoo, Conservatory, and Tropical Encounters open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. through Labor Day.

We look forward to welcoming you for a longer visit soon.

So Minnesota! A (very) Quick History of Como Zoo courtesy KSTP-5

Summer at Camp Como: Two Great Job Opportunities for Educators, and Internship Opportunities too!

Looking for a meaningful, energizing way to spend part of your summer break? Camp Como is gearing up for another exciting season, and we’re hiring! If you love teaching, working outdoors, and inspiring curiosity in young learners, we have two opportunities you’ll want to explore.

Camp Instructors

We’re seeking enthusiastic, thoughtful educators to join our summer team as camp instructors. Camp Como blends hands-on learning, outdoor exploration, and conservation education to create unforgettable experiences for kids. You’ll lead activities that spark curiosity, connect campers to the natural world, and make every day feel different from the last.

Camp Care Specialists

We are also hiring special education teachers for our Camp Care Specialist role. These specialists help ensure every camper has the support and tools they need to fully participate and succeed. It’s a rewarding opportunity to make camp more accessible, inclusive, and fun for all.

Why Camp Como?

It’s a chance to work in a one-of-a-kind setting—surrounded by animals, gardens, and the energy of hundreds of curious young minds. Whether you join us for just three weeks or stay for the entire summer, Camp Como offers flexible scheduling and a collaborative team environment.

If you’re ready for a summer that’s both meaningful and memorable you can learn more and apply for by clicking here: Jobs At Como – Como Park Zoo And Conservatory

For Camp Director Internship, click here: Camp-Director-Intern-full-position-description.pdf

Celebrating International Polar Bear Day at Como

Honoring Nan, Neil, Astra, and Kulu, and protecting moms and cubs across the Arctic

Every year on February 27, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory joins people around the world in recognizing International Polar Bear Day, a day created by Polar Bears International to shine a light on one of the most important and vulnerable times in a polar bear’s life. During this period, polar bear mothers are tucked away with their newborn cubs in snow dens across the Arctic, caring for tiny arrivals that depend completely on them for warmth, safety, and survival.

Here at Como, we proudly celebrate our own polar bear family: Nan, Neil, Astra, and Kulu. Each bear has a unique story and a special place in the hearts of our visitors, volunteers, and staff. And this year brings an extra feeling of excitement. With Astra and Kulu forming a strong bond, we are hopeful that the future may bring cubs to Como Zoo. This hopeful possibility makes International Polar Bear Day feel especially meaningful.

Why International Polar Bear Day matters

In the wild, newborn cubs are incredibly small and fragile. They enter the world blind and helpless, and rely entirely on their mother for food, warmth, and protection. Only about half of all cubs survive to adulthood. Their success depends on a healthy Arctic ecosystem, which is changing rapidly as temperatures rise and sea ice melts.

Mothers and cubs are among the most at risk. They need stable sea ice to hunt, travel, and raise their young. As sea ice seasons grow shorter, the challenges facing polar bear families increase.

International Polar Bear Day encourages all of us to learn, share, and take simple actions that support conservation efforts across the Arctic. Even small changes, made by many people, can create meaningful progress.

Como and conservation

Como is proud to support conservation organizations like Polar Bears International, who work tirelessly to protect polar bear families through research, outreach, and science based action. By caring for polar bears here in Minnesota, we also help tell the story of their wild relatives and inspire visitors to care about the future of the Arctic.

Whether you visit to see Nan lounging on the rocks, Neil swimming laps, or Astra and Kulu exploring together, your connection to these amazing bears helps build understanding and support for their wild counterparts.

Join the global celebration

We invite everyone to take part in International Polar Bear Day by learning more from Polar Bears International and helping spread awareness about the importance of protecting moms and cubs across the Arctic.

Follow and share at:
Facebook: @PolarBearsInternational
Instagram: @polarbearsinternational
TikTok: @polarbearsinternational 
LinkedIn: Polar Bears International
YouTube: @PolarbearsinternationalOrg
BlueSky Social: @polarbearsinternational.org

Together we can celebrate the bears we love here at Como and support a brighter future for their wild relatives.