Zoo News

Prehistoric Soundscapes Exhibit November 18 – December 8, 2024

Step into Como’s Fern Room and prepare for a journey back 75 million years! Stroll through a prehistoric soundscape filled with calls from dinosaurs and creatures that once roamed ancient forests. Listen for sounds created by an instrument, custom built by UMN paleontologists, that mimic the haunting calls of the hadrosaur Parasaurolophus! See if you can spot some of Cretaceous critters hiding among the ferns!

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Garden Closure (and Winter’s Blooming Wonderland) Updates

The Sunken Garden will be closed until mid-January as we install ramps to improve accessibility and ensure a more enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Below is an artist’s rendering.

Read more about the Sunken Garden closure by clicking HERE

While there will be no Holiday Flower Show this year, we are excited to have you visit our free, onetime exhibit you won’t want to miss on the Visitor Center Porch December 5 – January 6. Click HERE for details.

And....

The Japanese Garden will be closed beginning September 19th, and reopen in 2025.

Go Ape Weekend November 9-10! And a Visit from Mr. Grinch!

Get ready for a weekend of fun as we swing into Orangutan Caring Week with a celebration of all things ape at Como! Enjoy exciting activities including ape zookeeper talks, banana gardener talks, crafts, and games.

Weekend Highlights:

• 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Crafts, games, and ape bio-facts inside the Covered Porch. Don’t miss the Fall Flower Show in the Sunken Garden!
• 11:00 AM: Zookeeper Talk – Apes!
• 11:30 AM & 2:30 PM: Blaze Sparky Show
• 1:00 PM: Gardener Talk – Bananas!
• 1:30 PM: Gorilla Program

Special Sunday Treat!
Join the Children’s Theatre Company at noon for a fun, interactive story theatre performance of Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! and meet the Grinch himself for a holiday surprise! 

Make a Difference – Recycle Your Old Cell Phone, iPod, and other Small Electronics!
While you can recycle your old devices throughout the year, Gorillas on the Line … Answer the Call is an annual global mobile phone recycling challenge organized by the Gorilla SAFE engagement team with participants from across the country and around the globe. Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is partnering with the Gorillas on the Line Campaign to collect cell phones and other small electronic devices that will be shipped back to ECO-CELL to be recycled.

Join Como Zoo in saving gorillas:

• Look around your home—you might have one or two outdated devices laying around!
• Spread the word—Reach out to your family and friends and see if they have any old devices that can be recycled.
• Visit Como Zoo and bring your old devices in!

Bring your phones to Como Zoo to recycle

ANY kind of cell phone will be accepted – even the big, heavy ones from years ago that wouldn’t come close to fitting in your pocket now. Along with cell phones, we are also accepting iPads, iPods, tablets, apple watches, adapters, chargers, mp3 players, handheld gaming systems, and headphones. For each cell phone received, a donation will be made to Como Friends, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s partner in conservation.

You can drop your cell phone off with any member of the Como Team or deposit it in the collection bin in the Visitor Center.

Come monkey around with us for a weekend full of fun and conservation!

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Orangutan photo credit Steve Solmonson

Amur Tiger Cubs, Marisa and Maks, Updates Here!

October 16, 2024

Como Zoo Names Amur Tiger Cubs: Marisa and Maks
Two long-time volunteers chose names for the critically endangered tiger cubs.

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is thrilled to announce the names of its two critically endangered Amur tiger cubs, born on August 29th. After much anticipation, the cubs—a male and a female—have been named “Marisa” and “Maks,” thanks to the thoughtful suggestions of two long-term volunteers who have been champions for Como for many years. These dedicated individuals have spent countless hours in the Large Cat Building, teaching the public about large cats and supporting the work of the zookeepers. Their contribution continues through this special opportunity to name the cubs.

The female cub has been named Marisa (mar-EES-ah), a name that the volunteers found to mean “spirited and tenacious”—a perfect reflection of her personality. The name also carries special significance for Como Zoo community, as it honors a retired Cat Zookeeper named Marisa, who was instrumental in the care of large cats during her 43 years at the zoo.

The male cub has been named Maks (max), a name often associated with meanings like “the greatest” or “strength and leadership.” The volunteers felt this was an apt description of the male cub’s confident demeanor and growing sense of leadership.

“It’s incredibly meaningful to have long-term volunteers, who have spent years educating the public about our large cats, help shape this important moment in the cubs’ lives,” said Michelle Furrer, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s Director. “Marisa and Maks aren’t just names; they’re a fun reminder of the passion and care that keep us committed to protecting wildlife every day”.

These cubs represent a significant success story for the Amur Tiger Species Survival Plan (SSP), a program of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) aimed at the conservation and management of this critically endangered species. The cubs’ mother, Bernadette, and father, Tsar, were paired following a breeding recommendation from the SSP, making this birth an essential part of ongoing efforts to preserve Amur tigers.

“This is a significant milestone for Como,” said Furrer. “The birth of these tiger cubs showcases the dedication of our animal care team, and the naming process has strengthened the bond between our animals, staff, and the amazing volunteers who work tirelessly to support Como Park Zoo & Conservatory.”

Both mother and cubs remain off exhibit and in their private maternity den, with the cubs continuing to bond and grow strong. In time, the public will have the chance to meet Marisa and Maks, but for now, Como will provide updates on their progress through its website and social media channels.

Background on the Parents Marisa and Maks are the first tiger cubs born at Como Zoo in more than 41 years. Their mother, Bernadette, is 7 years old, born at the Milwaukee County Zoo, and arrived at Como from the Oregon Zoo in 2023. Tsar, their 11-year-old father, was born at the Sedgwick County Zoo and has resided at Como since 2019. This is the first time both tigers have become parents.

The Big Cat Habitat Project In addition to celebrating the birth of the cubs, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is looking ahead to its proposed Big Cat Habitat project. This initiative aims to enhance the welfare of large cats at the zoo while providing visitors with immersive experiences. The project includes ADA and energy-efficiency upgrades, ensuring greater accessibility for all visitors. Como Zoo is actively seeking funding through a State Bonding appropriation to bring this vision to life and further support the conservation of these endangered animals.

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9/21 – Just a little paws for some serious cuteness! 🐯💤 Our tiger cubs are practicing their snooze skills…

Hope you got to sleep in, or maybe you can catch a catnap later, on this #Caturday! 😴

📷: Senior Keeper Jill, and Zookeepers Hans and Caitlin.

9/17 – New video! Wakey Wakey, it’s bath time!

We are thrilled to announce the birth of two critically endangered Amur tiger cubs on the morning of August 29th. These cubs—a male and a female—are the first tigers born at Como Zoo in more than 41 years, marking a historic and exciting moment for the zoo and its conservation efforts.

The cubs’ mother, Bernadette, is 7 years old and was born on September 14, 2016, at the Milwaukee County Zoo in Wisconsin. She joined Como Zoo from the Oregon Zoo in October 2023. The father, Tsar, is 11 years old, born on July 6, 2013, at the Sedgwick County Zoo in Kansas. Tsar has been a resident of Como Zoo since February 2019. This is the first time both Bernadette and Tsar have become parents.

The pairing of Tsar and Bernadette was made following a breeding recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Amur Tiger Species Survival Plan (SSP), a program dedicated to the management and conservation of Amur tigers in accredited institutions across the country. With a gestation period of approximately 104 days, the arrival of these cubs offers new hope for this critically endangered species.

“This is an extraordinary milestone for Como,” said Michelle Furrer, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s Director. “The birth of these tiger cubs is not only a testament to the dedication and expertise of our animal care team but also a beacon of hope for the conservation of Amur tigers worldwide. We look forward to sharing their growth and milestones with everyone who visits Como Park Zoo & Conservatory.”

Both mother and cubs are in good health and will remain in their private, calm maternity den for the next few months. This period is crucial for mother-cub bonding and for the cubs to grow strong enough to explore their outdoor habitat safely. Zookeepers and veterinary staff are monitoring the new family closely via cameras, observing Bernadette being a diligent and attentive mother—cleaning, feeding, and keeping the cubs warm.

“These cubs represent a significant success for the Amur Tiger Species Survival Plan and for the future of the species,” said Wes Sims, Director of Animal Care & Health at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. “Our team is incredibly excited about the birth of these two tiger cubs, especially since they are the first offspring for both parents. It’s a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team that these amazing animals have successfully bred in our care.”

While Bernadette and her cubs will remain off-exhibit for some time, Tsar will continue to be visible to visitors in his habitat. We will provide regular updates on Bernadette and her cubs through our social media channels, offering the public a chance to follow along as the cubs grow.

Amur tigers, also known as Siberian tigers, are the largest tiger subspecies, with males reaching up to 400 pounds. They once roamed across Siberia but are now confined to a small region around the Amur River in the Russian Far East. With fewer than 500 individuals remaining in the wild, they face critical threats from habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.

In addition to celebrating the birth of these cubs, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory also seeks to enhance its facilities through a proposed Big Cat Habitat project. This initiative represents a significant opportunity to advance Como’s mission of education and conservation. The project aims to improve the welfare of these majestic creatures while providing visitors with more enriching and immersive experiences. The habitat will include ADA and energy efficiency upgrades, ensuring accessibility for all community members. Como is actively seeking funds through a State Bonding appropriation to bring this project to life and ensure future generations can continue to connect with these ambassadors of their species.

Wolf Awareness Weekend! October 19 & 20

Get ready to howl with excitement as we celebrate Wolf Awareness on October 19 and 20! This fun, family-friendly event will immerse you in the world of wolves, just in time for National Wolf Awareness Week (October 20–26). Join us from 10 AM to 4 PM both days for exciting activities that bring to life the vital role wolves play in maintaining the balance of our ecosystems. Wolf Awareness Weekend is sponsored by Xcel Energy.

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A New Addition to the Herd: Como Zoo Welcomes Adorable Nyala Calf!

***On Give to the Max Day, coming November 21, you will have the chance to choose a name for Como’s newest arrival! Stay tuned for details!***

We are overjoyed to announce the arrival of an irresistibly cute new member to our animal family—a male Nyala calf born on the evening of Monday, September 16, to proud mother Stevie. Weighing in at a healthy 14.1 pounds, this little guy wasted no time getting on his feet, standing within just 20 minutes of birth!

This marks Stevie’s second calf with father Stanley, who sadly passed away earlier this year on January 28. The couple’s first offspring, Meadow, was born in January 2024. The new calf is already drawing curiosity from his big sister Meadow, who Senior Zookeeper Jill Erzar says is “very curious about her little brother, but incredibly gentle and respectful.”

Nyala, a species of spiral-horned antelope native to southern Africa, are known for their striking chestnut coats, adorned with white stripes and spots. The males develop impressive spiral horns and a darker coat as they mature. These graceful animals thrive in woodland and thicket habitats and can often be seen grazing in groups in the wild.

Visitors can catch a glimpse of the Nyala family most days in their habitat at Como Zoo. Fun fact: the gestation period for Nyala is 210-230 days, meaning baby Nyala calves spend about seven months growing before making their big debut into the world!

Come by Como and say hello to our latest arrival! Stay tuned for an official naming announcement coming soon.

Stanley and Stevie arrived at Como in 2023 on a Species Survival Plan (SSP) breeding recommendation. You can read more about SSPs here: https://www.aza.org/species-survival-plan-programs

Join Our Quest! September 29

Explore Como Park Zoo & Conservatory without the crowds at this fun scavenger hunt – and support the plants and animals you love at Como!

Purchase Como Quest General Admission Tickets HERE

9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

$20 per ticket

Como Quest is a team activity! Tickets are sold individually so you can build a team of any size. Your team includes all adults and children who are participating in the event. Children ages three and under participate for free. For the best experience, we recommend teams of 4-6 players per team.

Your Como Quest ticket will allow you to create the team of your choice through the Goosechase scavenger hunt app. The scavenger hunt will run from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. the day of the event. A link to set up your Goosechase team will be emailed the week of the event. Looking for more information on Goosechase now? Head to their website to find out more.

While Como Quest is great for kids of all ages, adventurers under 4 years old can take on the Cubs Quest, a paper scavenger hunt availalbe at the event tailored to the smallest explorers.

All players will enjoy a family-friendly mix of hands-on activities, games, and crafts for kids at Como Quest, all included in the cost of your ticket. You’ll also have the opportunity to support Como by purchasing a Mystery Bag, participating in additional fun-filled fundraising games, and donating to the Como Quest Fund-a-Mission.

Zoolympics! Go For The Gold at Como, September 7 & 8!

The thrill of the Paris Olympics may be over, but the excitement is just beginning at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory! We’re bringing the Olympic spirit to Como with a wild twist—introducing Zoolympics, a free, family-friendly conservation event that will have your little ones jumping, running, and competing like true champions. Mark your calendars for September 7 and 8, because this is an event you won’t want to miss!

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Bedazzling “Glass In Flight 2” Exhibit Open Thru Labor Day!

We are delighted to announce the opening of Alex Heveri’s stunning “Glass In Flight 2” exhibit, a part of her renowned “Glass in Flight” series. This captivating collection, featuring enlarged steel and glass sculptures of butterflies, moths, dragonflies, beehives, humming birds, ants, and praying mantis, is now on display through Labor Day.

Renowned artist Alex Heveri’s masterful creations have enchanted audiences across America, celebrating the beauty and global importance of insects through her vibrant, oversized, and glittering sculptures. Each piece in the “Glass In Flight 2” exhibit is meticulously crafted, capturing the delicate elegance and intricate details of these winged wonders.

“We are thrilled to host Alex Heveri’s ‘Glass In Flight 2’ exhibit at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory,” said Michelle Furrer, Director of Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. “This exhibit perfectly complements the natural beauty of our gardens and provides an inspiring experience for all who visit.”

Guests can stroll amongst the large sculptures and encounter these exquisite glass pieces, each creating a harmonious blend of art and nature.

In addition to the exhibit, Como Park Zoo and Conservatory offers a variety of educational programs and activities designed to inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world. “Glass In Flight 2” is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and admission is free, though donations are appreciated to support the ongoing conservation and educational efforts at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory.

Horace the Corpse Flower: A Brief, Smelly, and Memorable Life

We are saddened to announce that Horace the Corpse Flower has completed his brief but unforgettable bloom at the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. Born from a rare and noble lineage of Amorphophallus titanum, Horace captured our hearts and noses with his extraordinary presence.

Horace first emerged at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, with genetic roots tracing back to the lush jungles of Sumatra. In 2019, he found his home at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, where he patiently grew and gathered strength for his magnificent bloom.

On May 23, 2024, Horace’s long-awaited moment arrived. Standing tall and proud, he unfurled his impressive spathe, revealing a striking maroon interior and emitting the infamous scent of rotting flesh that both repelled and fascinated visitors. For 24 to 36 hours, Horace held court in the North Garden, drawing crowds who marveled at his unique beauty and pungent aroma.

Horace’s bloom was a rare and special event, a testament to the wonders of nature and the delicate balance of our ecosystem. Though his scent has faded and his bloom has ended, the memories he created will linger long after his petals have closed. Horace will now retire behind the scenes, resting and preparing for a potential future bloom, likely years from now.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who visited, waited in line, and tuned in to the live stream to witness Horace’s spectacular display. Horace’s bloom reminded us all of the incredible diversity and mystery of the natural world. He will be missed but not forgotten. Rest well, Horace, until we meet again.