Zoo News

The Winter Flower Show Ends March 20. Spring Flower Show Opens March 26.

Winter Flower Show
January 15 through March 20, 2022
The 2022 Winter Flower Show will feature a stunning display of flowering trees and shrubs. Highlights will include purple azaleas, pink lilies, and camellias. Cyclamen, cineraria, veltheimia, and amaryllis will add beautiful pink and red accents throughout the show.

Spring Flower Show
March 26 through May 1, 2022
The 2022 Spring Flower Show will feature a primary color scheme of red, blue and yellow with white/silver accents. Red and yellow bulbs will dominate the show with blue hydrangeas adding contrast.

Reservations are required for both members and nonmembers at this time. Reservations are currently available on this website only. Click HERE to make your reservation.

Como Live Episodes from September 2021 thru January 2022

While we all #StaySafeMN and practice social distancing, check this space for challenging, fun learning opportunities. Then, tune in Mondays and Thursdays at 1:30pm on our Facebook page for special LIVE zookeeper talks and gardener talks. Check back later in the day where we will post the video here.

If you’ve watched a Como Live episode we’d appreciate your feedback! Please fill out a five question survey by clicking HERE.

Monday, January 31: International Zebra Day!

Today is International Zebra Day! Listen to a zookeeper talk about our zebra herd on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Celebrate by putting your own unique spin on a traditional black and white zebra by printing out these coloring pages HERE and HERE.

Thursday, January 27: Winter Carnival Orchid Show Preview

The Winter Carnival Orchid Show is this coming Saturday and Sunday at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory! Get a sneak peek at Como’s orchid display and learn more about the orchid collection on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Interested in attending the Winter Carnival Orchid Show? Advanced registrations are required. Purchase your tickets HERE.

Looking to learn more about how to care for your orchids at home? Check out this video from the Chicago Botanical Garden about how to repot your orchid HERE.

Monday, January 24: The Winter Flower Show!

The Winter Flower Show in the Sunken Garden is in full bloom! Learn more about the plants in this year’s show and how they care cared for on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

The Marjorie McNeely Conservatory hosts five flower shows every year. Check out how each show is changed over by watching this time lapse from the 2019 Fall Flower Show HERE.

Thursday, January 20: A Special Birthday!

Today is a very special day for penguins! Join us as we celebrate Penguin Awareness Day AND Amahle the penguin’s 3^rd birthday! How will our penguin colony celebrate? Find out on today’s fun-filled episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Want to spend some more time with penguins today? You can check out this LIVE webcam of the penguin exhibit at the Kansas City Zoo HERE.

Monday, January 17: Bromeliads!

Did you know? The Marjorie McNeely Conservatory houses a collection of over 215 different species of bromeliads! Go behind the scenes to see our colorful and vibrant collection and learn more about these interesting plants on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Looking for more plant education resources? Check out Plant Heroes, a resource that is part of the American Public Garden Association that aims to connect children with nature. Plant Heroes has a variety of free educational resources for both teachers and parents. Check out the resources HERE.

Thursday, January 13: Show Change Week!

It is show change week in the Sunken Garden! Learn about the process of the flower show change and get a sneak peek at the 2022 Winter Flower show on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook!

Find some of the plants of the Winter Flower Show in this word search HERE. Stumped? You can check out the answers HERE.

Monday, January 10: Bonsai!

Check out what bonsai are on display in the pavilion on today’s episode of Como Live. Take a break and join us for a virtual tour of this room at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Test your knowledge about bonsai ahead of the talk with this quiz HERE.

Thursday, January 6: Snake Enrichment!

Hear a zookeeper talk about one of our ambassador snakes and get an up-close view of them using some special enrichment on today’s Como Live! Be sure to tune in at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Looking for some enrichment for you dog during the cold winter months? Check out the ASPCA’s Canine DIY Enrichment article HERE.

Monday, January 3: Red-footed tortoises in Tropical Encounters

Have you checked out the red-footed tortoises in Tropical Encounters? They are one of the newer residents to this exhibit! Learn more about them on today’s episode of Como Live.

Have time today for a quick word search? This one is all about tortoises. Download the puzzle HERE. Stumped? You can check out the answers HERE.

Thursday, December 30: Year In Review!

As 2021 winds down, let’s check out the highlights – from new animal and plant arrivals, to all six of our Sunken Garden flower shows. Check out our year in review special edition Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook!

Last year, we celebrated by counting down to 2021 with 21 adorable animal videos! Check them out HERE.

Monday, December 27: Ferns!

What makes a fern a fern? Learn more about the unique adaptations of these prehistoric plants from a horticulturalist on today’s Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook!

Test your knowledge before the talk and see how much you know about ferns by doing this crossword HERE. If you are stumped, you can get the answers HERE.

Thursday, December 23: Reindeer!

The reindeer are gearing up for the holidays on today’s Como Live! Hear a zookeeper talk about these amazing animals at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Want more reindeer action? You can check out what our reindeer are up to 24/7 on our own LIVE Reindeer Cam HERE.

Monday, December 20: Poinsettias!

Tis the season for the Holiday Flower Show! Learn more about the process of creating the show from one of our horticulture staff, and then take a virtual walk through on today’s Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Design your own poinsettia by coloring in one of these coloring sheets HERE or HERE.

Thursday, December 16: Lemurs

Hear a zookeeper talk about the blue-eyed black lemurs on today’s episode of Como Live! Learn more about these primates and get an up-close virtual view at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Lemurs are prosimians, which are members of the primate family. Do you know the characteristics of prosimians? Take this quiz HERE.

Monday, December 13: Cacao Tree in the North Garden

Do you know where chocolate comes from? Learn all about our cacao trees in our tropical North Garden on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook!.

Learn about how chocolate is made from cacao beans by watching this video from UK Discovery HERE.

Thursday, December 9: Polar Bear Birthdays!

It’s a polar bear birthday bash on today’s Como Live! Join us as we celebrate Nan’s 27^th birthday and Neil’s 26^th birthday! Tune into Facebook today at 1:30 to check out what tasty treats they were gifted! Can’t make the 1:30 party? Tune in later and we will post the video here!

Test your polar bear knowledge with this crossword HERE. Then, find the answer key HERE.

Monday, December 6: A Stroll through Tropical Encounters

Enjoy a virtual stroll through our Tropical Encounters exhibit on today’s Como Live! Check out the plants and animals without the added heat and humidity at 1:30pm on Facebook.

How well do you know the plants and animals living in Tropical Encounters? See if you can find them all in this word search HERE. Stumped? You can get the answers HERE.

Thursday, December 2: Choosing the Poinsettias for the Holiday Show

It’s Show Change week in the Sunken Garden on today’s episode of Como Live! Join us at 1:30pm on Facebook for a sneak peek of the Holiday Flower Show and learn more about the process! The Holiday Flower Show will open to the public on Friday, December 3rd.

Looking for a fun and easy holiday craft do with your kids? You can try making a paper poinsettia by following these instructions HERE.

Monday, November 29: North Garden!

Take a much-needed afternoon break with us after long holiday weekend and explore the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory’s North Garden! Enjoy a relaxing virtual tour of this beautiful garden on today’s Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

How much do you know about the North Garden? See if you can identify the plants in this word scramble HERE. Stumped? You can check out the answers HERE.

Wednesday, November 24: Bonsai

Much of our bonsai collection is behind the scenes in our greenhouses at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory. Learn about how they are chosen and prepared for display on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

You can check out the website Bonsai Empire to learn more about how to start and care for your own bonsai at home HERE.

Monday, November 22: Last Week of the Fall Flower Show!

It is the last week to enjoy the second part of the Fall Flower Show in the Sunken Garden. Check out a virtual tour of the show in full bloom on today’s Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

As fall comes to the close, many people are finishing their yard clean-up for the winter. Consider leaving the leaves and think of the beneficial insects and pollinators. Learn more about it from the Xerces Society HERE.

Thursday, November 18: Meet Our Newest Pinnipeds!

Meet two of our newest pinnipeds, Stanley and Wally the grey seals on today’s #ComoLive! Learn more about them from a zookeeper and how they came to be at Como Zoo on today’s episode of #ComoLive at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Pinnipeds is a term that includes seals, sea lions, and walruses. Can you find different species of pinnipeds in this word search HERE? Stumped? Check out the answers HERE.

Monday, November 15: Bison!

We are highlighting North America’s largest land animal on today’s #ComoLive! Learn more about our bison herd from a zookeeper at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Did you know that November is National Bison Month? Check out the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Website HERE for more resources including upcoming and past webinars, poetry circles, and other great conservation information.

Thursday, November 10: Charlotte Partridge Ordway Memorial Japanese Garden

Fall is a wonderful time to visit the Charlotte Partridge Ordway Memorial Japanese Garden. You can check it out before the snow flies on today’s Como Live! Slow down and take a virtual stroll with us this afternoon at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Test your knowledge about Japanese Gardens with this crossword puzzle HERE. Stumped? You can get the answer key HERE.

Monday, November 8: Orangutan Caring Week

We are celebrating Orangutan Caring Week on today’s Como Live! Take a break with us this afternoon and check out our orangutan enjoying some tool-based enrichment at 1:30pm on Facebook.

The Orangutan SAFE (Saving Animals From Extinction) Education Group has put together some great educational resources to bring awareness to orangutans in humane care and in the wild. You can check out this puzzle activity, like the one our orangutans participated in on Como Live HERE. You can also try your hand at another training activity HERE.

Thursday, November 4: #PolarBearWeek

Celebrate #PolarBearWeek with us! Support polar bears by learning about Polar Bears International’s efforts tracking polar bears and reducing the human/polar bear conflict. On today’s Como Live, learn from a zookeeper about how Como is participating through testing a prototype tracking device called “Burr on Fur” on our newest polar bear, Kulu.

Read more about Kulu and “Burr on Fur” by reading the press release here: Como Welcomes Kulu the Polar Bear! – Como Zoo Conservatory

You can also learn more about how Polar Bears International is using radar technology to help wild polar bears HERE.

And, check out this webcam from Churchill, Manitoba and see if you can spot a wild polar bear HERE.

Monday, November 1: Ikebana Show On Now!

The Ikebana Show at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory is taking place this week Monday, November 1^st through Sunday, November 7^th. You can learn more about this Japanese art of flower arrangement and get a virtual sneak peek of the show on today’s Como Live segment at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Interested in trying Ikebana? You can check out this beginner video tutorial HERE.

Thursday, October 28: Creepy Crawlies!

Ready for Halloween? Get in the spooky spirit by joining us for an episode of Como Live that is all about creepy crawlies! Hear a zookeeper talk about some of his favorite bugs at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Have a favorite creepy crawlie insect? Draw and color it using this bug jar craft template HERE.

Monday, October 25: Mums The Word!

The Sunken Garden’s fall flower show is in full bloom! Take a virtual tour with a horticulturalist on today’s Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

What is your favorite color of chrysanthemums? Color your own with these coloring sheets HERE and HERE.

Thursday, October 21: Wolf Awareness Week Continues!

Wolf Awareness Week continues today’s Como Live! Today we are highlighting our “Wolves and Wild Lands” traveling exhibit from Ely, Minnesota. Hear the Director of the International Wolf Center do a Question and Answer on this special exhibit at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Read the press release on the “Wolve and Wild Lands” exhibit HERE

The International Wolf Center is a great resource in Minnesota for wolf education. Check out their FAQ about Wolves HERE.

Monday, October 18: Wolf Awareness Week!

It’s Wolf Awareness Week! We are celebrating by highlighting wolves all this week on Como Live. Today’s segment will feature our two new resident wolves, Nicky and Cerberus. Hear a zookeeper talk about them at 1:30pm on Facebook!

Read all about Nicky and Cerberus in the press release HERE.

Looking for more local educational wolf content? Check out the Voyageur’s Wolf Project HERE, which has been tracking gray wolves and studying their ecology in northern Minnesota.

Thursday, October 14: Spiny Mice

Did you know? Spiny mice are more closely related to gerbils then mice! Learn more fun facts from a zookeeper and check out these ambassador animals up close on today’s episode Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Feeling creative? You can print out and color your own mouse picture HERE and HERE.

Monday, October 11: An Octopus in the Fern Room?!?!

It’s Octo-ber, and we have a special addition to our Fern Room! Check out this amazing hand-crafted octopus topiary sculpted by our horticulture staff on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Want to try your hand at creating a topiary? Check out this beginner’s guide on how to make a topiary from the Home Depot HERE:

Thursday, October 7: Changing Over To The Fall Flower Show

Fall is here, and it’s show change week in the Sunken Garden! Learn more about the process of our flower show switchovers and get a sneak peek of the fall show on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Can you find  these fall plants and flowers in this word search HERE? If you’re stumped, you can find the answers HERE.

Tuesday, October 5: The Fern Room

Even though leaf colors are changing outside, our fern room continues to be a vibrant green! Take a break with us and enjoy a walk through the ferns on today’s Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Can you identify the plants that will be highlighted in this video? Take the quiz HERE and find out!

Thursday, September 30: Emperor Tamarins!

The emperor tamarins are arguably one of Como’s most recognizable monkeys with their distinguishable facial hair! Get a closer look a them and learn more from a zookeeper on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

How much do you know about emperor tamarins? Try your hand at this crossword puzzle HERE. Stumped? You can find the answers HERE.

Monday, September 27: Sensory Plants

We have many different species of ambassador animals here at Como, but did you know that we also have ambassador plants? Check out some of our sensory plants behind the scenes and up-close on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Have you ever wanted to create your own sensory garden? Get some tips from Kew Gardens HERE.  

Thursday, September 23: World Gorilla Day is Tomorrrow!

World Gorilla Day is tomorrow, September 24^th! We are kicking off the celebration by highlighting these special primates on today’s Como Live! Learn more about our gorillas from a zookeeper and see them interacting with some enrichment at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Check out this craft from the World Wildlife Fund where you can learn how to make a gorilla mask out of recycled materials. Download the instructions HERE.

Monday, September 20: North Garden

Join us in our North Garden on today’s episode of Como Live! Learn about how this garden is cared for and maintained from one of our horticulturists and get an up-close look at the plants at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Want to spruce up your own garden this fall? Learn about how to prepare a fall vegetable garden from The Spruce HERE. 

Thursday, September 16: Tropical Encounters

Tropical Encounters is a miniature rainforest right here in Minnesota! Learn more about the fish living in this exhibit on today’s Como Live! Get a closer look at 1:30pm on Facebook.

See if you can find the names of the fish in Tropical Encounters by doing this word search HERE. Stumped? Get the answers HERE.

Monday, September 13: Virtual Garden Walk

Take a break and enjoy a quiet stroll through the palm dome on today’s episode of Como Live! A few interesting plants will be highlighted on this virtual garden walk. Learn more at 1:30pm on Facebook.

See if you can identify a few of the plants in the palm dome ahead of the virtual stroll by doing this quiz HERE.  

Thursday, September 9: Orchids!

We are highlighting our beautiful orchid collection behind the scenes on today’s Como Live! Hear a horticulturalist talk about these intricate plants at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Want to learn more about orchids? The Orchid Society of Minnesota is a great resource. You can check out and read some of their blog posts HERE:

Thursday, September 2: Stick Bugs!

The Minnesota State Fair is in full swing, just down the street from Como Park Zoo and Conservatory! While you think about your favorite food on a stick, we’d like to highlight one of our stick insects to help celebrate! Come learn more with a zookeeper talk on today’s Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Want to celebrate the State Fair at home? Check out these recipes for food on a stick from the Food Network HERE. What is your favorite tasty treat on a stick?

Click HERE for June – August 2021 videos and activities

Click HERE for February – May 2021 videos and activities.

Click HERE for November – January 2021 videos and activities.

Click HERE for August – October 2020 videos and activities.

Click HERE for April – July 2020 videos and activities

‘That’s a lot of neck to break’: Giraffe surgery at Como is a tricky task

Courtesy MPR News

Poinsettias Galore! Holiday Flower Show Winding Down!

The Marjorie McNeely Holiday Flower Show runs December 3, 2021 through January 9, 2022. 

Click HERE for the dates of all our flower shows. 

Read More

Fall Flower Show & Flamingos

Part II of the Fall Flower Show is now open through November 28th (Holiday Flower Show begins December 4th). While many Minnesota gardens are winding down for the winter season, the Sunken Garden at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory will be in full bloom! The Fall Flower Show features a variety of chrysanthemums and fall favorites. The first half of the Fall Flower Show will be yellow and silver. Dwarf sunflowers, marigolds, and ornamental peppers will add to the cheerful display. The second half of the Fall Flower Show will be equal parts orange, yellow, and white.

And with the cold fall nights upon us, it is time for the flamingos to go to their winter home, behind-the-scenes, here at Como. One of the most common questions we get it is “what animals can I see in the winter?” Well, the only animals that you won’t see in the winter are the flamingos and the Galápagos tortoises! Fall & Winter are actually the best times to visit and get up close to all your favorite animals (unless of course, your favorites are the flamingos and Galápagos tortoises)!

Como Welcomes Kulu the Polar Bear!

Kulu comes to Como with a new innovative tracking device from the “Burr on Fur” program that will help his wild cousins.

(Saint Paul, MN) Como Zoo welcomes its newest resident, Kulu, a 725 pound male polar bear. Kulu comes to Como from the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium where he gained a large following since his birth on Thanksgiving Day on November 28, 2019.

Visitors to Como now can see Kulu in the deep-water exhibit of the Polar Bear Odyssey habitat. While Kulu will be able to see, smell, and verbally interact with Como’s current resident polar bears Nan and Neil, they will be physically separated until Kulu completes a mandatory quarantine period.

This move for the 23-month-old Kulu is based on recommendations by the polar bear Species Survival Plan (SSP), the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) advisory group that uses a science-based approach in managing the population in North American Zoos.

Kulu also come to Como Zoo with a new innovative tracking device called the “tri-brush attachment”, just one of several prototypes in the “Burr on Fur” Program. Developed through a partnership with Polar Bears International and 3M, the “Burr on Fur” Program advanced prototype devices stick to a polar bear’s fur, providing a minimally invasive way of tracking wild polar bears.

What started as a tech challenge to invent a better way to track polar bears has moved out of the lab and onto the fur of Kulu. Kulu is testing out a new prototype tag created by 3M scientists, including White Bear, Minnesota resident and retired 3M research specialist Jon Kirschhoffer, through a voluntary Polar Bears International challenge. The pilot tags are non-permanent and combine currently available satellite transmitters with innovative ways to attach them. Kulu’s care team at the Columbus Zoo secured the tag to Kulu’s fur just before his move to Como Zoo.

“Traditionally, scientists have used satellite collars to follow polar bears, but the collars can only be placed on adult females,” said Geoff York, senior director of conservation at Polar Bears International. “Adult males can’t be collared because their necks are as wide as their heads, and young bears grow too quickly to be safely collared. As transmitters have become smaller researchers have tested GPS ear tags and implants. But ear tags must be permanently attached, and implants require minor surgery. The devices designed by 3M represent a major potential step forward—they could be used on all classes of polar bears and would allow us to obtain critical data with the least impact possible.”

Researchers study polar bears behavior in the Arctic to better understand movement patterns and habitat use while collecting other data. But scientists are always looking for ways to improve existing technology and make research less invasive. In this case, the challenge was to create a way to attach a tracking device to a polar bear’s fur.

3M researchers created four new prototype polar bear tracker tags that are now in a pilot phase. Two of the designs were tested on wild polar bears in Western Hudson Bay in the far north of Manitoba, Canada, in the fall of 2020. Polar Bears International worked with research teams to deploy an additional twelve tags in Southern Hudson Bay this Fall as well.

In addition, Polar Bears International is starting to test the tags on zoo bears, working with nine zoo and aquarium partners in their Arctic Ambassador Center network. Zoo bears serve as ambassadors for their wild cousins and enable scientists to conduct research that would not otherwise be possible. In the case of the tags, deploying them on zoo bears will enable researchers to closely monitor how they perform under various conditions–gaining critical information that they would be unable to obtain from wild bears. (For example: If a tag falls off, what caused it to fail? Swimming? Rolling over on the ground? Play-wrestling with another bear?)

“We’re beyond thrilled to welcome Kulu, and to be participating in this innovate project”, said Allison Jungheim, Como Senior Zookeeper and AZA North American Polar Bear SSP Coordinator. “Knowing the designer of the Burr on Fur tag lives so close to us makes it even more sensational.”

The prototypes range from mechanical solutions to adhesive solutions and some were a little bit of everything. Some of the concepts utilized existing 3M technologies and some ideas were completely new. All need to be able to withstand the usual: extreme cold, snow, saltwater, and some polar-bear specific actions: rolling in the snow, for example. The “burr on fur” approach allows the device to latch onto and “stick” to a polar bear’s fur. All prototypes are non-toxic, temporary and do not harm the bears.

“By working with our zoo partners we can fill key knowledge gaps in polar bear ecology,” said Marissa Krouse, programs manager for Polar Bears International. “This project is an excellent example of how zoos can help with polar bear conservation, in this case by helping to validate new technology that will assist researchers in studying wild bears. As the Arctic continues to warm and sea ice melts, creative and innovative advances in research methods and technology are critical to furthering conservation efforts—for polar bears and for wildlife around the globe.”

In addition to the Como Zoo, other zoos participating in the Burr on Fur project include Point Defiance Zoo, Kansas City Zoo, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Assiniboine Park Zoo, San Diego Zoo, Oregon Zoo, Louisville Zoo, and Maryland Zoo in Baltimore.

The Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium’s Dr. Holly Reed Conservation Fund and the Kansas City Zoo helped fund the project.

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Mum’s The Word At Como!

The Marjorie McNeely Conservatory’s Fall Flower Show Now Open

While many Minnesota gardens are winding down for the winter season, the Sunken Garden at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory will be in full bloom! The Fall Flower Show opened Saturday, October 9^th and features a variety of chrysanthemums and fall favorites. The first half of the Fall Flower Show (October 9 – October 31) will feature a yellow and silver palette. Dwarf sunflowers, marigolds, ornamental peppers, and pumpkin on-a-stick will add to the cheerful display. The second half of the Fall Flower Show (November 6 –November 28) will be equal parts orange, yellow, and white.

The chrysanthemum flower has been known since before 5000 BC in a small yellow form. Ancient China and Japan both have tales explaining how the chrysanthemum originated. The Chinese who considered them the highest of flowers, named their royal throne after the flower.  Chrysanthemum flowers have traditionally been boiled in China to make “chrysanthemum tea,” used in folk medicine for influenza patients. In landscaping, chrysanthemums are valued for the fact that they bloom in fall.  Chrysanthemum flowers are also a favorite of florists for arrangements, due to the longevity of their blooms.

The Fall Flower Show at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory is open October 9 – November 28 from 10:00am-4:00pm. There will be a mid-show change November 1 – November 5 in which the Sunken Garden will be closed, but all other rooms of the Conservatory will remain open to the public. The tradition of the annual Fall Flower Show began in 1915 when the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory first opened.  Today, the Conservatory hosts five season annual flower shows.

“Wolves & Wild Lands” Traveling Exhibit Now Open!

A new traveling exhibit from Ely, Minnesota’s International Wolf Center, in partnership with Outhouse Exhibit Services, Inc, entitled “Wolves and Wild Lands in the 21st Century” is now open in Como’s Exhibit Gallery. 

The traveling exhibit, “Wolves and Wild Lands” brings compelling stories of wolves and their relationship to humans. For example, did you know that wolves once occupied every habitat in North America, from mid Mexico to the polar ice pack? Human encroachment has led to diminished territories and prey for most wolves, but much important work is being done to find a way towards harmony between wolves and people.

The exhibit is comprised of six preserved taxidermy specimens: 5 wolves and a coyote, each presented in its human and natural-history context, along with graphics providing regional information that impacts each of these animals. Species included are Arctic Wolf, Mexican Wolf, Coyote, Red Wolf, Rocky Mountain Wolf, and the Great Plains Wolf

This program was funded in part or in whole with money from the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008 which dedicated funding to preserve Minnesota’s art and cultural heritage.

Wolves Return To Como Zoo

Leading up to Wolf Awareness Week (October 17-23), Como is excited to welcome two new resident wolves into Como’s Wolf Woods habitat, and announce the opening of a new wolf traveling exhibit.

The eerie and distinctive call of the gray wolf will echo again at Como Zoo with the arrival of Nicky (left) and Cerberus (right), two-and-a-half-year-old littermates born at the Wildlife Science Center in Stacy, Minnesota. These two beautiful male wolves will be on exhibit beginning October 1^st at Como Zoo as ambassadors of their species. The wolves will provide zoo visitors with an opportunity to learn about this majestic species and how we can learn to co-exist with them.

Since 17-year-old gray wolf Shy-Anne passed away in 2020, Como’s Critical Infrastructure Team has cleaned up and updated the Wolf Woods habitat, removing buckthorn and other shrubs, and adding a new fence in the interior of the habitat that will make it easier for keepers to access the wolf woods while the wolves are outdoors. “The result is that visitors will have a much better view of the wolves,” says zookeeper Hans Jorgensen. Thanks to the remote location of the Wolf Woods, and Nicky and Cerberus’s clean bill of health, the wolf brothers will soon be ready to meet the public.

And….a new traveling exhibit from Ely, Minnesota’s International Wolf Center, in partnership with Outhouse Exhibit Services, Inc, entitled “Wolves and Wild Lands in the 21st Century” will open to the public October 1st in Como’s Exhibit Gallery.

The traveling exhibit, “Wolves and Wild Lands” brings compelling stories of wolves and their relationship to humans. For example, did you know that wolves once occupied every habitat in North America, from mid Mexico to the polar ice pack? Human encroachment has led to diminished territories and prey for most wolves, but much important work is being done to find a way towards harmony between wolves and people.

The exhibit is comprised of six preserved taxidermy specimens: 5 wolves and a coyote, each presented in its human and natural-history context, along with graphics providing regional information that impacts each of these animals. Species included are:

• Arctic Wolf
• Mexican Wolf
• Coyote
• Red Wolf
• Rocky Mountain Wolf
• Great Plains Wolf

Como Live Episodes From June, July, August 2021

While we all #StaySafeMN and practice social distancing, check this space for challenging, fun learning opportunities. Then, tune in Mondays and Thursdays at 1:30pm on our Facebook page for special LIVE zookeeper talks and gardener talks. Check back later in the day where we will post the video here.

If you’ve watched a Como Live episode we’d appreciate your feedback! Please fill out a five question survey by clicking HERE.

Monday, August 30: Baby Kudu!

Get a peek at our youngest kudu on her first day out on today’s Como Live! Learn more about these animals by listening to a zookeeper talk at 1:30pm on Facebook.

How well do you know the hoofstock animals at Como Zoo? Test your knowledge with this word scramble HERE. Stumped? Get the answers HERE.

Thursday, August 26: Enchanted Garden & Its Pollinator Plants

Check out our beautiful garden spaces right outside of Como Park Zoo and Conservatory on today’s Como Live. Get a closer virtual look at this garden and learn more about pollinator plants on at 1:30pm on Facebook

Is your yard pollinator friendly? Take this survey HERE from the University of Minnesota Extension to find out where it ranks!   

Monday, August 23: Up Close With Galapagos Tortoises!

We’re getting up close to our Galapagos tortoises on today’s Como Live! How much do you think our tortoises weigh? Tune in to check out the training process and how we check our tortoises weight at 1:30pm on Facebook.

How much do you know about tortoises? See if you can arrange them size with this quiz HERE.

Thursday, August 19: World Orangutan Day!

It’s World Orangutan Day! Celebrate with us on Como Live! Get a chance to see our orangutans virtually and listen to a zookeeper talk about them on today’s Como Live!

Check out these resources from the Orangutan SAFE (Saving Animals From Extinction) education team. Test your hand at trivia quiz HERE. You can also try this crossword puzzle HERE.

Monday, August 16: Hedgehog!

Check out one of our hedgehog ambassador animals up close on today’s Como Live! See them interacting with some enrichment and listen to a zookeeper talk more about them at 1:30pm on Facebook.

You can do your own hedgehog crossword to test your knowledge HERE. Stumped? Download the answers HERE.

Thursday, August 12: Charlotte Partridge Ordway Memorial Japanese Garden

The Charlotte Partridge Ordway Memorial Japanese Garden has an extensive and rich history. Get a brief insight to how this garden came to be what it is today on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Want to learn more about the elements that make up a Japanese garden? Check out this webpage from Japan-Guide.com HERE.

Monday, August 9: Koi Fish!

The koi at Como are a favorite of children and adults alike. Check out these colorful fish and learn more about them on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

There are about 100 different varieties of koi. Check some of the more common varieties out with this graphic HERE. You can also color your favorite or create your own variety by downloading this coloring page HERE.

Thursday, August 5: Behind-the-scenes of the Greenhouse

Learn more about plant propagation on today’s episode of Como Live! Go behind-the-scenes of the greenhouse and check out the seeding room and germination chamber. Learn more from a horticulturalist at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Want to start your own plants from seed? Learn more by watching this video from This Old House HERE

Monday, August 2: Bowl Lotus, or is it Micro Lotus?

The Conservatory is growing a micro lotus, or bowl lotus! Learn more about this unique plant from a horticulturalist on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Thinking of getting a micro lotus for your house? Check out this video from the Bergen Water Gardens & Nursery which explains how to pot a micro lotus HERE.

Thursday, July 29: Global Tiger Day!

Today is Global Tiger Day! We are celebrating by highlighting our Amur tigers here at Como Zoo. Check out a fun video montage of these striped cats!

Color a picture of a tiger from the Tiger Conservation Campaign HERE! And, learn more about what this organization is doing to help endangered tigers by visiting their website HERE

Monday, July 25: Flamingos!

The flamingos are enjoying summer here at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory! Learn more about these bright birds by listening to a zookeeper talk on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Did you know? Wild flamingos perform a special dance to attract a mate. Check it out HERE.

Thursday, July 22: Celebrating National Zookeeper Week!

It’s National Zookeeper Week! We want to take a minute and say THANK YOU to all of our awesome zookeepers at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory! Tune in to see a video compilation for a special episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Check out this interview from last year with zookeeper Jill that talks all about her experiences in the field. Click HERE to watch!

Monday, July 19: Summer Flower Show

The Summer Flower Show is the longest running flower show in the Sunken Garden at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory. Learn all about how this flower show is maintained on this episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Have a question about a plant you have at home? Check out the “What’s wrong with my plant?” webpage from the University of Minnesota Extension to see if you can get some of your questions answered HERE.

Thursday, July 15: Arctic Sea Ice Day!

Today is Arctic Sea Ice Day! Arctic Sea Ice Day was created by our partner organization, Polar Bears International, to draw attention to the loss of sea ice in the arctic. Wild polar bears rely on sea ice to hunt, breed, roam, and sometimes den. 

We are helping to spread awareness for Artic Sea Ice Day by highlighting our ambassador polar bears on today’s Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook. Before or after watching, be sure to check out this handout HERE from Polar Bears International to learn more about why Arctic sea ice is important and what you can do to help. Want to do more? Explore more great resources on Polar Bear International’s website HERE! 

Monday, July 12: Banana Tree

Did you know that there are banana plants growing in our North Garden? Learn more about them from one of our horticulture staff and get a closer look on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Are bananas one of your favorite fruits? You can check out Forks Over Knives 22 Recipes for Overripe BananasHERE

Thursday, July 8: Charlotte Partridge Ordway Japanese Garden

Spend some time in the Charlotte Partridge Ordway Japanese Garden on today’s episode of Como Live. Did you know that there are specific elements that make a Japanese garden? Learn more about them and the meaning behind certain characteristics but watching this segment at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Try your hand at this word scramble containing elements of a Japanese garden HERE. You can find the answers HERE.

Tuesday, July 6: Seals and Sea Lions in Como Harbor

We hope everyone enjoyed the holiday weekend! Dive back into the week with us on today’s episode of Como Live!  This entertaining segment will showcase our seals and sea lions swimming in their new home, Como Harbor! Check it out at 1:30pm on Facebook.

How much do you know about our seal and sea lion, or pinniped friends? Try your hand at this crossword HERE. Stumped? You can find the answer HERE.

Thursday, July 1: Golden-headed Lion Tamarins

Check out the golden-headed lion tamarins on today’s episode of Como Live! Hear a zookeeper talk about these curious primates at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Monkey or Ape? Do you know the difference? Test your knowledge with this quiz HERE.

Monday, June 28: The Water Gardens

Check out the water gardens on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook! Our horticulture staff will give you an up close view and share how they care for these beautiful aquatic plants. Our Victoria Water Platter seeds come from Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. Check out their process for moving the water platters in this video HERE

Thursday, June 24: Rainbow Boa

We are highlighting one of our colorful animal ambassadors on today’s episode of Como Live! Join us for a  zookeeper talk about the rainbow boa at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Test your knowledge about snakes by doing this crossword HERE. You can find the answers HERE.

Monday, June 21: It’s World Giraffe Day!

It’s World Giraffe Day! Celebrate with us on today’s episode of Como Live! Listen to a zookeeper talk about giraffes at 1:30pm on Facebook.

You can check out our World Giraffe Day Enrichment video from last year’s celebration by clicking HERE

Thursday, June 17: Pinniped Training!

Como Harbor, our new seal and sea lion exhibit is now OPEN at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory! Check out a pinniped training on this episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Can you find the names of all of Como Zoo’s pinnipeds? Try your hand at this word search HERE. Stumped? Check out the answers HERE.

Monday, June 14: Fire-Bellied Toads!

Learn about the unique adaptations of the fire-bellied toads on today’s episode of Como Live! Join us at 1:30pm on Facebook to see these brightly colored amphibian ambassadors up close.

Frog or toad? Do you know the difference? Take this quiz HERE

Thursday, June 10: Galapagos Tortoises!

Sorry Como Live fans, we had some technical difficulties with today’s episode, but we were able to record them eating their lunch! nom nom nom

Summer is just around the corner and our Galapagos tortoises are outside enjoying the weather! See a LIVE zookeeper talk on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook. Get your questions ready!

How much do you know about the tortoises of the world? Try this crossword HERE. Stumped? You can find the answers HERE.

Monday, June 7: Spider Monkeys!

Did you know that spider monkeys get their name from their disproportionately long limbs and prehensile tails? Learn more about these primates at Como Zoo from a zookeeper on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook.

Are you in middle of high school, and feeling creative and inspired to help primates in need? The Orangutan SAFE (Saving Animals from Extinction) Annual Art Contest is accepting submissions through June 12th! Students in grades 6-12 may participate and win incredible prizes. One entry may even become Orangutan SAFE’s new logo. Click here for more info and registration.

Thursday, June 3: Today’s The Day! Grand Opening of Como Harbor!

Today is the grand opening of Como Park Zoo and Conservatory’s newest exhibit, Como Harbor! Watch the unveiling and ribbon cutting ceremony on today’s episode of Como Live at 1:30pm on Facebook. Get a virtual sneak peek of Como Harbor by visiting our website HERE. You will also find out more information about this new exhibit and even see some of the animals in their new home!

Tuesday, June 1: What’s Growing In Tropical Encounters?

Ever wonder what is growing in Tropical Encounters? Find out today on today’s episode of Como Live. Learn about plants with some familiar products, like coffee! Tune in at 1:30pm on Facebook to find out more.

Ever heard of shade-grown coffee plants? Find out what that means by watching this short video from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology HERE.

Click HERE for February – May 2021 videos and activities.

Click HERE for November – January 2021 videos and activities.

Click HERE for August – October 2020 videos and activities.

Click HERE for April – July 2020 videos and activities

Skeeter the Giraffe Recovering from Hoof Procedure

A team of animal care experts from around the US participate

Last week, a team of animal care experts and veterinarians from around the US participated in a foot and hoof procedure on one of Como Park Zoo and Conservatory’s reticulated giraffes.

Last year, Skeeter, the 12-year-old male giraffe at Como Zoo sustained an injury that left him lame on his front left leg.  Voluntary radiographs on his leg within the week showed no obvious hoof or bone issues. Thermography (a process used to look at the heat an area of the body puts out) was used to diagnosis a tendon injury. Large animal surgeons Dr. Fausto Bellezzo and Dr. Micky Trent, both with the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, and who work as Como’s veterinarians, did the initial diagnostics and placed Skeeter on stall rest.  When it became apparent that Skeeter was not improving as expected, repeat radiographs were performed. By a second round of voluntary radiographs, a fracture to the P3 bone in his left lateral hoof claw was diagnosed. P3 fractures are not uncommon in giraffe but they are difficult to correct. Because of the fracture, Skeeter had started putting more weight on the unaffected claw, which caused the claw with the fracture to become overgrown. Como’s veterinarians determined that anesthesia and immobilization would be necessary to repair Skeeter’s hoof and the planning for the procedure began.  “Immobilizations of giraffes can be dangerous and difficult to execute because of their unique anatomy and physiology, and sheer size.” said Andrea Persson, Como’s onsite Vet Technician.

Because giraffes are an especially risky species to anesthetize, thorough and extensive planning was needed to ensure a safe and successful procedure. Como Zoo’s staff, along with Dr. Bellezzo and Dr. Trent, assembled a team of experts consisting of Dr. Jeff Zuba, recently retired from San Diego Zoo, Dr. Liza Dadone from Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, and Dr. Priya Bapodra from Columbus Zoo who were consulted to advise our team as each have a wealth of experience anesthetizing giraffes. Minnesota Zoo veterinarians, Dr. Taylor Yaw and Dr. Anne Rivas, were invited to join the team to provide their expertise in megavertebrate anesthesia. Dr. Tiffany Wolf, University of Minnesota wildlife epidemiologist, and four members of the UMN Veterinary Medical Center’s Anesthesia team were also called upon to assist.   

Steve Foxworth, world-renowned farrier from the Zoo Hoofstock Trim Program, was consulted about the best management plan to address Skeeter’s P3 fracture, and together with Como’s veterinarians the decision was made to trim Skeeter’s hooves and apply custom-made shoes. The shoes act as a splint, limiting movement of the injured claw while the fracture fuses.  

As a team, several virtual and in-person meetings were held to come up with a plan to safely anesthetize, treat, and recover Skeeter. Among the things to consider were, where would be the safest space to perform the procedure, what anesthetic drug protocol to use, how to provide padding on the walls, what floor substrate would be best, what supplies we would need for positioning such a large animal, and what equipment would be required for anesthesia and monitoring.  

On the morning of August 12^th, nine veterinarians, three veterinary technicians, three farriers including Steve Foxworth, and Como Zoo’s animal care team, all worked together masterfully to perform Skeeter’s procedure safely and successfully.

“The partnership with the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine is invaluable to our animals here at Como Zoo,” states Michelle Furrer, Como’s Zoo Director and Campus Manager.  “The ability to work with our staff to assemble a team of experts is a testament to the high quality of care all of our residents receive.”

Today, Skeeter is up, walking and enjoying his time outside in his habitat at Como Zoo.  Although not very visible, his new shoes on his front hooves will be removed in 8-10 weeks.

PHOTOS & VIDEO CREDIT SUSANNAH BAUDHUIN: https://bit.ly/37SaNWv

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