Zoo News Archives - Page 3 of 10 - Como Zoo Conservatory

Baby Zebra Now Has A Name!

Baby Zebra Now Has A Name!

“Aurora” Wins in a Landslide!
With a nod to the new women’s soccer team, “Aurora” garners 50% of the vote

During last weekend’s Como Quest event, attendees had the opportunity to vote on three names for Como’s baby zebra. The votes have been tallied and we are thrilled to announce that the name Aurora is now bestowed onto the little female zebra. Aurora, which is a nod to Minnesota’s women-led and community-owned pre-professional women’s soccer team, ran away with the vote amassing 50% of the total votes. The other names presented were Subira getting 25% of the votes, and Izara with a matching 25% of the votes.

Como’s current herd now consists of Ulysses, Thelma, Minnie, and Aurora.

Aurora was born to Minnie on May 24th. Ulysses sired the foal. Aurora is Minnie’s fourth offspring. Como’s zebras are part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) breeding population.

The gestation period for zebras ranges from 10-12 months. A newborn zebra’s stripes will turn from brown to black sometime between the first 9-18 months of life. Como is home to Grant’s Zebras, which are commonly found in the grassy plains of eastern Africa including the countries of Kenya and Ethiopia.

The baby zebra is available for sponsorship. Sponsoring an animal is a unique way to help Como Zoo with its wildlife conservation efforts. Donations support enhanced habitats and efforts to maintain the best care possible for the animals at Como Zoo.

There will be no recount.

Photo credit: Susannah Baudhuin, Como Friends

It’s A Girl! Como Zoo Welcomes Baby Zebra

It’s A Girl! Como Zoo Welcomes Baby Zebra

Como Zoo is happy to announce the successful birth of a female zebra foal to Grant’s Zebra “Minnie.” Mom and baby are both doing well, enjoying the oohs and aahs of visitors. The baby zebra was born sometime during the overnight hours, May 23rd into May 24th. When the zookeepers arrived this morning, they discovered the foal up, walking strong, and closely shadowing its mother, Minnie.

The birth of the foal was not a surprise. “Minnie was getting very big; we knew it was a matter of days before her baby would make its appearance,” said Jill Erzar, Senior Zookeeper at Como Zoo. “There were no complications and mother and baby appear to be doing great.”

Minnie and her foal can be seen by the public in the outdoor Zebra and Kudu exhibit daily from 10am-6pm.

Father, Ulysses, sired the newborn. This is Minnie’s fourth offspring. Como’s zebras are part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) breeding population.

The chance to help name the foal will be included as part of an extraordinary new event, “Como Quest”, on June 4 & 5. Como Friends latest event, Como Quest, is a family friendly adventure that is a mission through the Zoo grounds. Como Quest is a wild exploration designed for multigenerational fun, as kids and adults work together to unlock conservation clues, collect rewards, and uncover exciting new secrets about animals, plants and the planet we share. Teams will also vote to name the new baby foal. With an interactive smart phone app and an adventurous spirit, your team of treasure hunters will dig deep into Como’s amazing animal and plant collections, while supporting the best care possible for the animals and plants and free admission that is so important to our community. For information and tickets for Como Quest go here: https://comofriends.org/events/como-quest/

Sponsor the Baby Zebra! Sponsoring an animal makes a great gift – that keeps giving back. Animal sponsorships are a unique way to help Como Park Zoo and Conservatory with its wildlife conservation efforts. They support enhanced habitats and efforts to maintain the best care possible for the animals, including the zebra, at Como Zoo. To purchase, visit Garden Safari Gifts at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, call 651-487-8229 or go online to comofriends.org.

Photo credit Susannah Baudhuin

Lil’ Explorers Is Back! Free Fun for the Lil’ Ones

group under a 10x10 tent listening to a story time

Lil’ Explorers Is Back! Free Fun for the Lil’ Ones

Lil’ Explorers is a FREE program from 10:00AM-noon on Thursdays in the Visitor Center in the Winter and on the zoo grounds in the Summer. Perfect for the 1-3 year old (but all ages are welcome) to meet animal and plant visitors, see story time, play games and many other fun activities. Different theme each week! An ASL interpreter will be here every Thursday through March from 10:15am-12:15pm interpreting both Lil’ Explorer story times and the 11:30am Sparky Show!

FOR THE FULL SCHEDULE OF WEEKLY THEMES CLICK HERE!

Lil’ Explorer Thursdays is funded in part by the Minnesota State Arts Board through the arts and cultural heritage fund as appropriated by the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the Legacy Amendment

Upcoming Events For May & June

Upcoming Events For May & June

Flowers, Bonsai, Sparky, Rides, Concerts, & New…Como Quest!

Cafesjian’s Carousel Opening Day
May 1
One of only three operating carousels still in original paint, the carousel has been restored to its 1914 beauty. Come take a ride on the historic Cafesjian’s Carousel, featuring 4 rows of horses (68 total) and 18 scenic paintings around the upper part of the carousel. Enjoy free rides on May 31 and June 28! Please visit Cafesjian’s Carousel’s website for their hours as they do differ from the Zoo and Conservatory. https://www.ourfaircarousel.org/

Annual Bulb Sale
May 2, 9AM – Noon
Bring a little bit of the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory to your garden this year at our annual bulb sale! Como Friends’ Garden Safari Gifts has hundreds of recycled tulip, daffodil, and hyacinth bulbs from the Spring Flower Show ready for you to bag up and bring home for one day only, while supplies last. With prices from $5 and up, it’s a great time to stock up and support conservation at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. No reservations are needed unless you want to enter Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. Please bring your own bag and credit cards preferred.

Summer Flower Show
May 7 through October 2, 2022
The Summer Flower Show is the longest of the five flower shows. Summer sunsets inspire this year’s summer flower show. Tropical annuals and a glowing color palette of warm season annuals will fill the Sunken Garden. Hibiscus ‘Imperial Dragon’, dark red verbena, orange begonias, red salvia, tangerine impatiens, striped tiki torch petunias, and canna are among the many flowers featured in the longest running flower show of the year.

Mother’s Day Bonsai Show
May 7 & 8
Instead of buying a bouquet for Mom, make memories at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory! Mother’s Day weekend marks the return of the Minnesota Bonsai Society Show, an extravaganza of elegantly trained trees arranged throughout the Visitor Center. If you’ve been wondering what it takes to grow your own, don’t miss the Mother’s Day Bonsai Show, which will feature dozens of privately-owned trees all trained by members of the Minnesota Bonsai Society. Members will be on hand all weekend to answer your questions about everything from taking care of Bonsai, to which trees work the best. This is a unique opportunity to see beautiful privately owned bonsai, along with Como’s vast collection on May 7 and 8 from 10am-6pm.

The SPIRE Sparky Show Returns!
May 7th
After a four-year break, Sparky the sea lion is ready to make her big debut in Como Harbor and she welcomes a new friend, SPIRE Credit Union. The SPIRE Sparky Show will launch on May 7 with a program at 11:20 a.m. followed by the inaugural show at 11:30 a.m. The SPIRE Sparky Show will be in the KSTP Amphitheater daily at 11:30 & 2:30.

Como Town Opening Day
May 14
Como Town is located next to Como Zoo. The family-friendly amusement park is home to more than 20 ride and attractions, concessions, and a General Store. Please visit Como Town’s website for their hours as they do differ from the Zoo and Conservatory. https://comotown.com/

Red Cross Blood Drive
May 26. 9Am – 3PM
We are pleased to host a blood drive at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory on Thursday, May 26. Sign-up now by clicking HERE!

Senior Strolls
May 10 & 24 9AM -10AM
June 7 & 21 9AM -10AM
This is a special time set aside just for our 55-and-up aged guests. This is an opportunity to visit the Zoo and Conservatory for a leisurely walk before the crowds. This event is a great opportunity for Seniors to enjoy a free event that encourages being active and social.

Sensory Friendly Mornings
May 18 & 22 9AM – 10AM
June 1 & 12 9AM – 10AM
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is an energetic, colorful place full of sensory stimuli, and we know this environment can be overwhelming for some guests. With our Sensory Friendly Mornings, we strive to provide a positive, welcoming experience for every visitor.

Music Monday
Mondays, 10AM – 1PM, Memorial Day – Labor Day
Join members of the Jack Brass Band every Monday as they Second line through the zoo grounds.

Como Quest – A new family-friendly fundraising adventure in support of Como Park Zoo and Conservatory
June 4 & 5
Como Quest is a wild exploration designed for multigenerational fun, as kids and adults work together to unlock conservation clues, collect rewards, and uncover exciting new secrets about animals, plants and the planet we share. Tickets and more information at https://comofriends.org/events/como-quest/

Groovin’ In The Garden
June 8 Innocent Reggae Band
June 15 Annie & The Bang Bang
June 22 Porky’s Groove Machine
June 29 Flamin’ Oh’s
Pack a picnic and dancing shoes, spread out a blanket & join us for these FREE outdoor concerts & activities in front of the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory every Wednesday, June 8 – July 27 from 6pm–8pm. Hotdogs, ice cream treats, beer and wine will be available to purchase.

Come Work With Us!

Come Work With Us!

We have part-time and full-time seasonal jobs in Maintenance. Click or scan the QR code.

Sparky is Making a Splash Year Round!

Sparky is Making a Splash Year Round!

The SPIRE Sparky Show will run daily in the KSTP Amphitheater at Como Harbor.

Como Friends and Como Park Zoo and Conservatory are happy to announce a new partnership with SPIRE Credit Union, as the title sponsor of the SPIRE Sparky Show!

“I, along with many Minnesotans, have wonderful memories visiting Como Park Zoo & Conservatory as a youngster and now take my grandchildren there,” says Dan Stoltz, president/CEO of SPIRE, the new presenting sponsor of the Sparky show, which got its start back in 1956. “I know people of all ages enjoy this regional treasure and will for many years to come. In SPIRE’s mission to improve lives and give back, we are grateful to partner with this wonderful organization.”.

For more than 65 years, “Sparky the Sea Lion” has been a beloved Minnesota tradition, teaching generations of children to care about seals and sea lions in the wild. As Como evolved, Sparky became a conservation ambassador, with a show that teaches visitors everything from the value of recycling to protecting marine mammals from plastic pollution.

In June of 2021, Como Park Zoo and Conservatory opened Como Harbor, a preeminent new seals and sea lions habitat. This fabulous addition in the heart of Como Zoo has modern updates to improve the comfort of visitors, expanded opportunities for people to engage with the eight seals and sea lions, and is a best in-class habitat for the care of the animals, including Sparky.

Como Bids Farewell to its Oldest Sea Lion

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of a beloved member of our Como Zoo family: Sealia, better known as CC, Como’s oldest sea lion. CC passed away at the age of 31 on Saturday, April 16, 2022. The average life expectancy of a sea lion is 15-25 years. Millions of people, young and old, had been enthralled and educated by this California sea lion as she starred in the “Sparky Show” from 2002 up until her retirement in 2015. She was the sixth sea lion to take on the coveted Sparky role and the first female Sparky.

CC was born at Como Zoo and was the Grand Dame of Como Harbor, the new seal and sea lion habitat that opened in June of 2021. When she wasn’t making waves in Como Harbor, she would be soaking in her “hot tub”, which was a kiddie pool filled with warm water refreshed several times a day by her keepers. “CC was very smart” said Senior Zookeeper Allison Jungheim. “She had her own preferences for trainers, fish, sleeping locations, and much more. She had her keepers wrapped around her flipper, who were always willing to cater to her wishes.”

*CC in her Hot Tub – Photo credit Como Zoo*

CC had a wide range of behaviors for which she had been trained. Having been Sparky VI, she had showy behaviors like ball balance, flipper stands, and speed swims as well as husbandry behaviors such as toothbrushing, voluntary vaccinations, and voluntary blood draws. These husbandry behaviors helped her live to be one of the oldest sea lions in Association of Zoo & Aquarium (AZA) institutions. As one of the first animals to participate in the operant conditioning training program when it was established by Como zookeepers, she was an avid learner and mostly eager participant in training sessions.

Over the past several weeks zookeepers and Como’s Vet had been monitoring CC and her declining health. CC had gone off food several weeks ago and was not interested in participating in training sessions. Bloodwork showed decreased kidney function and a possible systemic infection. Despite zookeeper and veterinary support and treatment, her condition continued to decline. Como’s zookeeper staff and veterinary team made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize CC on Saturday April 16, 2022 surrounded by her keepers. She was a beloved ambassador of her species and will be deeply missed by all who knew and cared for her, including her fin-footed friends Subee, Poppy, Niko, Kash, Kilian, Stan, and Wally.

“Como Zoo is proud of the great work we do with our animals, and this animal’s long life is a result of the amazing care by zookeepers and veterinary staff, as well as the Zoo industry embracing and learning more about geriatric animals in captivity” said Michelle Furrer, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory Manager.

“Great medical care, carefully formulated diets, and comfortable housing for all Como’s animals contribute to the excellent health and lifespan of our animals.”

While many associate the “Sparky Show” with a seal, it has actually been a sea lion that has been the star of the educational performance and attraction at Como Zoo since 1956 when Archie Brand brought his traveling sea lion show permanently to Como Zoo. Sea lions, such as CC have external ear flaps, are able to rotate their hind flippers beneath them to walk on all four flippers and use their front flippers to propel themselves through the water. By comparison, seals have no external ear flap, move on land much like an inchworm, and use their back flippers to swim.

The SPIRE Sparky Show will resume on May 7^th in the KSTP Amphitheater. This reimagined show will highlight all 7 animals that call Como Harbor home each adopting the role of “Sparky” on any given day as they get to know each other, the habitat, and their adoring fans.

Party For The Planet April 23 & 24

Flower

“Party for the Planet”Sponsored by Xcel Energy & Summer Flower Show Opening

A Weekend ‘Earth Day’ celebration April 21 and 22

April 22, 2022 marks the 52nd anniversary of Earth Day, a global celebration that also reminds us what we can do to protect the planet’s most precious resources. At Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, we invite the public to a “Party for the Planet” presented by Xcel Energy, on April 23 & 24 from 10-4 each day. Bring the family for a fun weekend of activities, crafts and education programs that explore animals, plants and people that depend on this big blue ball. You’ll leave with some great ideas for reducing your own impact on the planet, and improving our natural habitats.

Our presenting sponsor Xcel Energy will be bringing their 110sq foot Tiny House. Find out how easy it is to make energy efficiency improvements in homes both large and small. Also, check out the Xcel Energy Light Board and learn more about LED lighting and ways to conserve energy. And for even more planet-friendly ideas be sure to ask about Renewable*Choice – a range of renewable energy programs to best fit your individual lifestyle.

If the Party For The Planet’s not enough to get you to Como, maybe this is: it is the first weekend of the Summer Flower Show! The 2019 Summer Flower Show main feature a color scheme of purple, lavander, and peach provided by an array of flowers including roses, lilies, heliotrope, lemon verbena, begonias, foxglove, lewisia, caladium, cuphea, and snapdragons. The final day of the Spring Flower Show is April 21. The Sunken Garden will be closed Monday, April 22-Friday, April 26 to prepare for the Summer Flower Show.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle at Como

Party for the Planet isn’t just fun and games—it’s also a great way to learn more about simple ways you can make a difference.

• Have an old cell phone? Drop it in our recycling collection bin in the Visitor Center. Como partners with Eco-Cell for this recycling effort, where proceeds help invest in preserving one of the most critically endangered species on earth, the orangutan. Recycling these items at Como prevents toxic batteries from harming our earth when land-filled and helps to reduce the need to mine coltran, a product used in making cell phones and small handheld electronics that is often illegally mined in an area of Africa that is home to endangered gorillas.

Party for the Planet – Daily Schedule

10:30 Polar Bear Program……….Polar Bear Odyssey

11:00 Zookeeper Talk: Pollinator Evolution………Visitor Center Lobby

11:30 Gorilla Program…….Gorilla Forest

12:00 Story Time: One Plastic Bag………Visitor Center Lobby

1:00 Gardener Talk: Sunken Garden Show Change…….Sunken Garden

2:00 Gorilla Program…………..Gorilla Forest

2:30 Polar Bear Program………….………Polar Bear Odyssey

All Day: First Weekend of the Summer Flower Show………..…Sunken Garden

On Sunday, April 28 at 1:30, The Merry Minstrels (kids from St John the Baptist school in New Brighton, MN) will be entertaining the crowds with English Morris Dancing!

Also on Sunday at 10:30, join us for “Como: Making A Global Impact“. This week features Zookeeper Liz who recently spent time working in Costa Rica at the Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary. Come hear her stories and how her work in Costa Rica ties in with her work at Como Zoo. Yes, there will be adorable sloth photos!

Hey party animals, it’s cool to conserve!

Chloe

Flower photo credit Deb Lyngdal

Chloe the Sloth photo credit Jackie Scherer Photography

We welcome back Como’s Volunteer Program!

We welcome back Como’s Volunteer Program!

Volunteers play such a vital role at Como assisting throughout the Zoo, Conservatory, Grounds, Education and Visitor Services. At this time, we are looking for a limited number of volunteers in four specific areas.

For the safety of our staff, animals and other volunteers, Como is requiring all volunteers to be fully vaccinated against Covid 19.

Volunteer Opportunities

Current volunteer position openings are noted below:

Japanese Garden interpreter – Welcome visitors and help our guests enjoy a fulfilling Japanese Garden experience by sharing information about Charlotte Partridge Ordway Japanese Garden and information about Japanese Gardens in general.
Special Events Assistant– There are several ways to be involved if your schedule doesn’t allow for a longer term commitment, but you are interested in helping 3 or 4 times a year. Events like Party for the Planet, Obon Festival and others.
Outdoor Gardener Aide– Assist gardener staff in seasonal cultural care of the ornamental landscape & gardens throughout the Como Campus. This includes the Japanese Garden, Water Garden, Minnesota Garden, Enchanted Garden and the Centennial Garden.
Commissary Assistant– Assist zoo keepers with diet preparation, general housekeeping and other assigned tasks or projects. This position requires a weekly commitment of at least six months and will require an interview with a keeper.

Volunteer Benefits

Free training
Valuable experience
Gift shop and café discounts
Newsletter subscriptions
Invitations to special volunteer recognition events

How to Become a Volunteer

Join our volunteer team in just 2 easy steps:

Click here to complete our online volunteer application .
Wait to hear from us. We respond to all volunteer application requests.

Meet Sterling, Our Baby Saki Monkey!

Meet Sterling, Our Baby Saki Monkey!

Photo Credit: Jackie Scherer Photography

On January 15th Saki monkeys Patty and Milton welcomed their new baby in to the world! This adorable baby now has a name: Sterling!

Deb Hogenson, a longtime supporter of Como Friends and fan of Como, had the honor of naming the baby saki monkey. Deb describes Como as her “happy” place. When naming the baby Saki monkey, Deb wanted to select something that was special to her and made her smile. The name, Sterling, has a personal tie and reminds her of one of her favorite things that brings her joy – and is fabulous.

Saki monkeys are also known as “Flying monkeys” (They are capable of leaping as much as 30 feet between branches). The word “Saki” comes from the Latin meaning ‘four feet’. The average lifespan of saki monkey is 15 years, but in human care, they may reach 35 years. The gestation period lasts around 161 days.

Saki monkeys are found in southern and eastern Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and northeastern Brazil in South America.

Getting Engaged? Contact us first!

Getting Engaged? Contact us first!

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

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 In The News!

Spring Flower Show!

Winter Flower Show!

Discover The North Garden!

Weather Extremes of Como!

Discover What you May Have Missed In Tropical Encounters

Como was the go-to place for WCCO this past Vikings season! Here are some of our expert picks

Como Live Episodes from September 2021 thru January 2022

3 penguins walking on path with flowers on each side

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

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

Courtesy MPR News

Tim Nelson, MPR

St. Paul

October 29, 2021 4:00 a.m.

an anesthesiologist attends to a giraffe — University of Minnesota veterinary anesthesiologist Erin Wendt Hornickle attends to Skeeter the giraffe at Como Zoo as he undergoes treatment for a broken foot bone Thursday.

Tim Nelson | MPR News

How do you knock down a 16-foot-tall, 2,000-pound wild animal for surgery?

Very, very carefully.

That’s what vets and zookeepers did, as they brought down Como Zoo’s male giraffe, Skeeter, on Thursday. University of Minnesota veterinary surgeon Dr. Fausto Bellezzo shot him in the right hip with a dart gun, loaded with a dose of drugs so powerful that staff had to have an opiate antidote on hand in case any people came in contact with the dart or drugs while working on the giraffe.

The first few minutes are the worst, Bellezzo said. “What is going to happen when that mountain comes down? If it’s gonna fall down in a bad position, possibly even break his neck, which, there’s a lot of neck there to break.”

Happily, that did not happen Thursday.

A giraffe stands near a bare tree branch — Skeeter, the Como Zoo’s 13-year-old male giraffe, suffered a broken foot bone last year, and underwent a second veterinary procedure to treat his condition Thursday. He’s seen here days before zoo staff put him under with anesthesia, a dangerous procedure for giraffes, who often suddenly collapse as they lose consciousness.

Susannah Baudhuin | Como Friends

Dr. Liza Dadone, from the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, set to work on him with an animal care army brought in from all over the country. Zookeepers, animal anesthesiologists, biomedical researchers, veterinary surgeons and exotic animal farriers raced to treat Skeeter in the few minutes they could safely let him be on the ground. Giraffes did not evolve to be off their feet, and it is one of the most dangerous things that can happen to them.

“We did a lot of preparation to make sure he would go down as smoothly as possible, and in the grand scheme of things, he did,” said Dadone, who oversees a herd of 17 giraffes and is considered one of the top experts on anesthetizing and treating the animals. “It is always a little bit of a moment,” she said.

Zookeepers strapped Skeeter’s limp neck to an 8-foot padded board to keep it straight, while a veterinary anesthesiologist shoved a two-inch-wide pipe nearly as tall as she was down his throat to pump oxygen to his lungs — giraffes did not evolve to breathe lying down and they have to be intubated and ventilated for surgery.

And how did it come to this, you might ask? Well, it turns out that giraffes in the wild evolved to naturally wear down their hooves — or claws, as they’re called. But zookeepers haven’t figured out a surface that mimics that effect in captivity. Their claws grow and grow, and in some cases, it fractures a bone in their foot, which is what happened to Skeeter.

“It’s very common, but it’s hard to fix,” says Jill Erzar, a giraffe keeper at Como Zoo. “So we decided, August of 2021, we were going to go in and put a pair of shoes on him, and the shoes essentially act like a splint.”

She’s Skeeter’s favorite, and he hers, but she said she couldn’t bear to watch him be darted again, as those shoes, actually flat, glue-on rubber pads, were removed.

And as long as he was down, zoo staff gave him the full workup: radiologists X-rayed his feet, and a team of zoo animal farriers from Colorado trimmed his claws.

While that was going on, Michigan State University exotic animal researcher Dr. Valerie Johnson also administered an experimental stem cell therapy.

“These cells have many properties that are helpful, with osteoarthritis and also with fractures. They both decrease inflammation, but they also stimulate cells that are already in the body to start becoming more active,” Johnson said.

She says she and her colleagues have tried it on about 10 giraffes so far, and they’ve all done well — a promising treatment for a problem that plagues many captive giraffes.

Zoo staff also gave him a full-body massage so he didn’t stiffen up and lifted and lowered his head every few minutes so that his neck would stay flexible and his airway would stay open. Staff had worked out a minute-by-minute plan to treat him for more than an hour.

And one other thing: Bellezzo, Como’s vet, surgically removed Skeeter’s testicles.

a giraffe lies on the ground with people surrounding

Skeeter has sired eight calves already, and the association of zoos and aquariums species survival plan has determined that there’s already enough of Skeeter — as well as Como’s females, Daisy and Clover — in the giraffe gene pool.

Jill Erzar, the giraffe keeper, said it will probably just be better for everybody: “For the sake of the girls, we thought, if we take away that testosterone, maybe they can live a little more peacefully in retirement.”

And by the way, those testicles won’t go to waste: they were packed in a cooler and Johnson, the Michigan State researcher, carried them off to be turned into more stem cells.

All in all, it took about an hour and a half, with dozens of people working on him all at the same time, the last of them dashing out of his stall after administering reversal drugs and helping him struggle to his feet — some even choking back tears.

They watched from outside his stall as Skeeter got back up — all 16 feet of him.