A snowy white female baby Dall’s sheep was welcomed into the world on Saturday, June 4th at Como Zoo. The baby lamb named “Rainy” can be seen scampering around the exhibit she shares with her mother “Storm” and her father “Thunder”. Dall’s sheep are most notable for the males’ (known as rams) massive curled horns….
World Turtle Day® at Como
On World Turtle Day®, zoos and aquariums accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) are highlighting conservation efforts protecting turtles and tortoises and are encouraging the public to join in taking action to help save the species from extinction. Como is home to many different turtles and tortoises including Galapagos Tortoises, Mata Mata…
Como Friends Praises Governor Dayton’s Bonding Proposal
Today Como Friends stands with our two million annual visitors to thank Governor Dayton for making a key investment in public infrastructure at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory. The $14.5M investment in asset preservation for Minnesota’s free zoo will ensure that hundreds of thousands of children from around the state will continue to enjoy the…
Como’s Orchids Scheduled for a Plant Check-Up
Como Friends invests in best practice care to preserve the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory’s collection of orchids Animals aren’t the only living things at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory that require occasional health care. Just like the polar bears and the penguins, the plants at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory undergo regular check-ups and get plenty of…
Escape the Cold in the Conservatory!
Dale K. and Fox 9 stopped by to check out the new Winter Flower Show!
The Art of Bonsai at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory
Volunteers Ken Ellis and Mike Porcaro have been attending to the Bonsai collection for decades. Hear their story in the video below courtesy of our friends at WCCO.
Climate Change Impacts Churchill Polar Bear Population
Sven Sundgaard and Kare 11 stopped by Como to learn how we help Polar Bears in the wild! Sven also made some special enrichment for Buzz and Neil! He is now in Churchill, Manitoba learning about the plight of polar bears and climate change. Follow his adventures on Twitter using the hashtag #ExploreWithSven.
AZA Grants Accreditation to Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) today announced that the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory was granted accreditation by AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission. “Only zoos and aquariums that meet the highest standards are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums,” said AZA President and CEO Jim Maddy. “By achieving AZA-accreditation, Como Park Zoo…
Como Zoo’s Baby Giraffe Now Has a Name
As a tribute to recently retired and ever-affable zookeeper Pete Lee, Como Zoo’s baby female giraffe now has a name: Frances. “Over the years, while working behind the scenes, the animals and I would often listen to Frank Sinatra” said Lee. “I’ve always suggested that a nice name for one of our beautiful creatures would…
Como Zoo Staff Excited About New Giraffe
Thanks to Jeff Edmondson and Kare 11 for this great piece on Como’s newest addition!
A Brief History of the Conservatory
Gardener Margaret stopped by Comcast Newsmakers to tell a little of the history of the Conservatory!
Praise for the Edible Garden!
The Incredible Edible Garden opened in June and has been getting rave reviews from both visitors and the press. IgniteChannel recently praised us for incorporating for producing produce for both the community and for our animals all while serving as an educational guide for our visitors. Thank you to everyone who makes the Edible Garden so…
After 3,500 Hours And 22 Years, Como Zoo Greeter Ready To Retire
Fox-9 stopped by Como yesterday to profile one of Como’s most distinguished volunteers! Gretchen Estes has put in more than 3,500 hours over 22 years of volunteering at Como! A big “Thank You” to Gretchen for her years of service! KMSP-TV
Meet “Franklin,” Como Zoo’s Baby Emperor Tamarin!
Como’s Facebook Fans Have Spoken Facebook Fans Choose Franklin For Baby Emperor Tamarin Name Como Zoo turned over the naming rights of its baby Emperor Tamarin to Facebook fans and the fans have responded. With the contest ending at noon (CDT) today, and with 45% of the votes, the name “Franklin” is now bestowed upon…
Como Zoo Named the Best Zoo in Minnesota
Como Zoo was recently named the best Zoo in Minnesota by Yahoo Travel! A big thank you to all of the staff, volunteers, and visitors who make Como such a special place! For the full list of Zoos (and an adorable picture of Chloe) check out: https://www.yahoo.com/travel/go-wild-the-best-zoo-in-every-state-120496231352.html