Montgomery Zoo introduces baby ostrich flock
referred to as the “Beans”

 

The Montgomery Zoo is excited to announce the arrival and public debut of four young ostrich chicks: Navy, Chickpea, Lima, and Green Bean. The “beans,” as they are lovingly referred to, hatched between June 2–5, 2025 in Georgia and were brought to the zoo by staff on September 10^th. The ostrich chicks have spent the past several months behind the scenes completing their quarantine period and settling comfortably into their new home.

On December 22^nd, they made their first appearance on public display, delighting guests with their curiosity, energy, and unmistakable personalities. Over the coming weeks, they will be introduced to the zoo’s current adult female ostrich, Gisele.

Each chick has already developed distinct characteristics:

Navy is a goofy, inquisitive girl who loves to investigate everything, especially her keepers’ clothing, which she excitingly grabs and tugs at during feedings, cleanings, and training sessions.

Chickpea, the boldest of the group, is always on the move. She’s the first to try anything new and keeps the animal care team on their toes with her fearless, fast‑paced antics.

Lima has taken on the role of protector. Ever vigilant, she watches for “danger” (including fast‑moving keepers) and positions herself between her sisters and anything unfamiliar.

Green Bean, the tallest chick, is also the shyest. She prefers to hang back, observing carefully before joining in, and approaches new experiences with thoughtful caution.

As a group, the “beans” are irresistibly friendly and endlessly curious. They inspect everything in their environment (keepers included) often pecking at glasses, tattoos, and anything shiny within reach. One of their favorite morning rituals is performing energetic “spins,” a behavior that has quickly become a staff favorite.

“The past few months I’ve gotten to know each of the beans and fallen in love with their personalities,” said Zookeeper Paige Morris. “I’m grateful we’re expanding Gisele’s flock after the loss of her sister, Heidi. Everyone is looking forward to watching them all go out and do their morning spins and dances together.”

Over the summer, the Zoo experienced the loss of one of its two adult female ostriches, Heidi, who had lived alongside her sister, Gisele, since they arrived at the Montgomery Zoo together in 2014. Welcoming these four chicks helps expand the flock and provide Gisele with much‑needed companionship.

Guests can visit Navy, Chickpea, Lima, and Green Bean in the Africa section of the Zoo. Their schedule may vary based on weather and animal care needs, so visitors are encouraged to call ahead for daily updates.

Pictures and videos can be found at this link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1tkcaq90U0pStYB_dL-YT8MBtZKzgWLZX?usp=sharing

Posted December 23, 2025

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Female giraffe calf, Ozzi, makes debut at Montgomery Zoo

 

The Montgomery Zoo is thrilled to announce the debut of its tallest baby resident, a female giraffe calf named Ozzi, born on August 3. Standing at an impressive six feet tall at birth, Ozzi has been bonding closely with her mother, Ashley, in the comfort of the giraffe barn as she adjusts to life at the zoo.

Ozzi’s father, JJ, has shown enthusiastic interest in his new role as a dad. While his excitement is heartwarming, the Zoo’s animal care team is prioritizing safety and welfare by keeping JJ separate from Ashley and Ozzi for now. The trio remains in close visual contact, allowing them to maintain social bonds while ensuring a calm and secure environment for the calf.

Fun fact: both our lead giraffe keeper and the proud giraffe dad share the same name, JJ! While Keeper JJ helps care for the herd behind the scenes, Giraffe JJ is adjusting to fatherhood with plenty of enthusiasm.

To support the family’s needs, the Zoo is rotating outdoor time between Ashley and Ozzi together and JJ. This flexible schedule helps each giraffe thrive while giving guests a chance to meet the newest member of the herd.

“Ozzi is growing quickly and showing off her playful personality,” says Keeper JJ. “She’s definitely JJ’s daughter. One hundred percent clumsy, goofy, and absolutely adorable.”

Due to colder temps in the morning during this time of year, we will have JJ on display in the morning and Ashley and Ozzi on display during the afternoon.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Decisions concerning animals on display are made based on animal well-being, animal husbandry, weather, and multiple other factors. Prior to your visit, please call (334) 625-4905 to inquire which animals are on display on the day of your visit. 

Posted November 10, 2025

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Montgomery Zoo staff’s dedication leads to first Caribbean flamingo chicks hatched in decades

The Montgomery Zoo is thrilled to announce the hatching of four Caribbean flamingo chicks. This is the first successful hatching of Caribbean Flamingos at the Montgomery Zoo thanks to the unwavering commitment, creativity, and hard work of the dedicated animal care staff.

 
The chicks, Kisba (pronounced 'KISS-bah'), Uyuni (pronounced ‘oo-YOO-nee’), Puddles, and Pippi hatched on June 4, June 7, June 24, and July 7 respectively. Their arrival marks a major achievement for the team who led a months-long effort to create the ideal conditions for flamingo nesting. It is a complex and delicate process that required daily, hands-on care.

After extensive research, the animal care team began transforming the flamingo aviary to support natural breeding behaviors in early April. They constructed a mud “wallow” with hand-built retaining walls that required daily maintenance to sustain the muddy structure needed for proper flamingo nesting. By May 7, their efforts paid off: the first eggs were discovered, and by season’s peak, nine nests had been established.

“It was a ton of work. Every day we were out there building up the mud wallow, hosing it down, and just hoping the flamingos would go for it. Some days it felt like we were just covered in mud for nothing. But now, seeing those little chicks wobbling around… it’s amazing. Totally worth seeing our guests enjoy them as much as we do.” says Mesha Jones, head keeper over flamingos.

Caribbean flamingos typically lay eggs from May through November, but the process is heavily dependent on environmental triggers like rainfall and food availability. The zoo has not had a successful flamingo hatch in over 20 years, making this season’s success especially meaningful.

Each of the four chicks has their own unique story:

Kisba, hatched June 4, was the first to arrive. The name means “achievement” in Maltese, a perfect tribute to the dedication that led to this moment. Kisba taught us so much about flamingo chicks and now walks proudly among the adults, squeaking with excitement and showing off what the team calls “Big Flamingo Energy.”

Uyuni, named after Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat located in Bolivia and a prominent flamingo breeding site, hatched on June 7. Uyuni was moved from the aviary to the zoo’s veterinary clinic on June 9 after sustaining a scrape to the head. Though the cause is unknown, Uyuni is receiving the necessary care and has been recovering quickly. The plan is for the chick to return to the flock once fully weaned and cleared by our veterinary staff.

Puddles hatched on June 24. As an egg, it was repeatedly pushed from its nest by parents so animal care staff stepped in and moved it into an incubator for safety. After hatching, the chick returned to the aviary and is thriving under “adoptive” flamingo parents. Its name is a playful nod to its muddy beginnings.

Pippi, named after the pipping process that happens while hatching, was the last viable egg to hatch. After being moved to the incubator for safe keeping, it started pipping and was moved back to the nest with mom and dad. After the full 36 hours the hatching process takes, Keeper Summer came in on July 8 to see our newest chick and aptly named it Pippi.

While not all of the eggs laid were viable, which is natural during flamingo breeding, the successful hatching of four healthy chicks is a testament to the zoo staff’s incredible dedication.

Visitors to the Montgomery Zoo can currently see Kisba, Puddles, and Pippi exploring the aviary. The goal is for Uyuni to rejoin the flock as soon as possible.

The Montgomery Zoo previously had successful Chilean Flamingo chicks hatch over 20 years ago.

Posted July 17, 2025

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Montgomery Zoo Hosts Meet and Greet for Montgomery United FC Team

MONTGOMERY ZOO (Montgomery, AL): Montgomery Zoo is excited to host the city’s new professional soccer team, Montgomery United FC. On Saturday, May 24 from 10 am – 2 pm, fans are invited to participate in the Ultimate Fan Experience — a meet-and-greet like no other. Where wildlife and the world’s favorite sport come together.

Throughout the zoo, Montgomery United FC team players will be stationed at various animal exhibits, giving fans the opportunity to meet their favorite athletes, snap photos, and get autographs, all while enjoying the zoo’s incredible animal collection.

Guests are encouraged to wear their Montgomery United FC gear and bring their cameras to capture every moment. Whether you’re cheering for your favorite midfielder or marveling at the majestic lions, this event promises fun for all ages.

“We are excited to host the city’s newest sports team, Montgomery United FC, at our facility,” says Marcia Woodard, Director of the Montgomery Zoo. “This event provides guests and fans an opportunity to celebrate the River Region community, share their team spirit, and learn about our great animals.”

Admission for this event is included with regular zoo entry, and Montgomery Zoo members can enjoy this special day as part of their membership benefits.

 Posted May 13, 2025.  

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Birth of Endangered Pygmy Hippo calf at the Montgomery Zoo

MONTGOMERY ZOO (Montgomery, AL):  The Montgomery Zoo is thrilled to announce the birth of a female pygmy hippopotamus, Anuket, named after the Egyptian goddess of the Nile River. Born on February 9 to mother Lola and father Nile, Anuket is Nile’s first daughter. She has spent fer first month bonding with her mother behind the scenes and can now be viewed in the Pygmy Hippo nursing suite located near the capybaras. She made her public debut Friday, March 14.

Anuket is full of energy and eager to meet guests. Described as feisty yet full of love, she has already developed a strong personality and a particular fondness for watermelon. Her birth is especially significant as pygmy hippos are listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This marks the eighth pygmy hippo birth at the Montgomery Zoo in the past nine years, highlighting the zoo’s dedication to conservation efforts.

The Montgomery Zoo has a successful history of breeding pygmy hippos through the Species Survival Plan (SSP). The zoo’s previous calves—Ronda (2024), Meela (2023), Hadari (2022), Betty Rose and Blanche (2019), Levi (2018), and Monty (2016)—have all been placed at other accredited facilities to support the continued growth of this endangered species.

Guests can visit the Montgomery Zoo’s other adult pygmy hippopotamuses in their permanent exhibit in the Africa realm. Anuket’s arrival reinforces the zoo’s ongoing commitment to wildlife conservation and education.

About Pygmy Hippopotamus
The pygmy hippopotamus is a large mammal native to the forests and swamps of western Africa. A cousin of the much larger common hippopotamus, the pygmy hippo is semi-aquatic and relies on proximity to water to maintain moisturized skin and a cool body temperature. Reclusive and nocturnal, it is a difficult animal to study in the wild. However, pygmy hippos have a history of breeding well in captivity. The World Conservation Union estimates that less than 3,000 pygmy hippos remain in the wild.

Though pygmy hippos share the same general form as the hippopotamus, they grow to approximately half the height and one quarter of the weight of their larger cousins. Full grown, the pygmy hippo typically reaches 30-32 inches in height, 59-70 inches in length, and 400-600 lbs. in weight. It is estimated that pygmy hippos can grow to ten times their birth weight by the age of five months.

IMPORTANT Media note:  Sound bites, video footage, and pictures associated with this story can be viewed online.

Posted March 21, 2025.    

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Heather Price Joins the Montgomery Zoo as the New Deputy Director

MONTGOMERY ZOO (Montgomery, AL):  The Montgomery Zoo is proud to announce the addition of Heather Price as its new Deputy Director. With 20 years of experience in animal care and zoological management, Heather brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the zoo’s leadership team.

Originally from Waycross, Georgia, Heather began her career as a volunteer at the Jacksonville Zoo and as a veterinary assistant before securing her first zookeeping role at Wild Adventures Theme Park. She worked her way up to lead keeper positions at both Wild Adventures and Palm Beach Zoo before transitioning into administrative and leadership roles. Her career path includes positions as the animal behavior manager at Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League, curator at General Coffee State Park, and Living Collections Manager at Chehaw Park.

Most recently, Heather served as the Animal Care Manager at Central Florida Animal Reserve from 2022 to 2024, where she managed the daily care and facilities for a variety of big cats, including tigers, lions, leopards, and cougars. Her responsibilities included overseeing staff and volunteers, organizing large-scale events, and leading fundraising initiatives. One of her favorite memories from that time was living on-site and making coffee in the morning while listening to the lion’s roar.

Heather holds a biology degree from South Georgia State College and a master’s degree in Environmental Policy and Management from American Public University. She also serves on the board of directors for the Feline Conservation Foundation, where she helps raise funds for conservation initiatives worldwide and supports educational programs. Her passion lies in the conservation of wild felines, particularly cheetahs and Florida panthers, though she also has a deep appreciation for often-overlooked species like reptiles.

“I am very excited to join the Montgomery Zoo team,” said Heather. “I look forward to seeing all of the growth, the exciting new changes, and improvements to the zoo. And I’m happy to be a part of it."

Heather officially joined the Montgomery Zoo on December 20, 2024 and is eager to contribute to the zoo’s mission of conservation, education, and animal care.

Posted February 10, 2025.    

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Montgomery Zoo welcomes Appa and Momo, two North American Bison calves

MONTGOMERY ZOO (Montgomery, AL): The Montgomery Zoo proud to announce births of two male bison, Appa and Momo.  Appa was born on May 26, 2024.  A few weeks later, Momo joined the growing herd being born on June 19, 2024.

Appa and Momo’s arrival has brought even more joy and excitement to the Zoo. Appa’s mother is Sakari. She tends to be more care-free allowing Appa to run and explore the grounds on his own. Catori, Momo’s mother, is known more for her protective and gentle nature, keeping a more watchful eye on Momo as he jets off and explores the area. Half-brother, Appa diligently tries to gently persuade Momo to follow his lead and venture off into untraveled lands. Tank, father of both claves, continues to be a strong and caring presence within the herd. Tank is great with both calves; especially as they race around the exhibit. 

Momo and Appa are already having lots of fun in their habitat together. In the mornings they can often be found racing in their new space. By the afternoon they are often dozing off in the shade, and behind the scenes are enjoying enrichment activities provided by our animal care staff.

Appa and Momo mark the third and fourth bison birth at the Montgomery Zoo. Recent mothers, Catori and Sakari were both placed at the Montgomery Zoo as part of the Species Survival Plan for the potential to breed with male, Tank. We are excited to share that the successful births of both calves bring the potential for genetic diversity, population stability, conservation efforts, and educational opportunities. Our goal at the zoo is to bring about global change at the local level and this is just one small way we can achieve that.

Posted July 15, 2024.    

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Montgomery Zoo pygmy hippo breeding program, huge success with calf number eight, Ronda 

MONTGOMERY ZOO (Montgomery, AL): Pygmy Hippopotamus are currently an endangered species.  Unfortunately there are only around 3,000 pygmy hippos left in the world. Species Survival Plan or SSP is an organization that tracks and keeps genetic history for every animal in human care. Through this, the data is put into a graph and coordinated as to which individuals would work best genetically as match to breed.

Due to the decline of pygmy hippos in their native habitat, conservation and breeding is extremely important to the overall existence of pygmy hippos, especially in zoological settings. Fortunately pygmy hippos are able to breed throughout the year. Each institution that houses pygmy hippos can coordinate where and when they may need to move and house an individual for this breeding plan. This overall process can be a complicated and takes extensive dedication from those involved.

Here at the Montgomery Zoo our breeding program has been a great success! Our most recent addition to our pygmy hippos herd, was a female weighing 5.68lbs born on February 11, 2024. She was a feisty strong willed little girl, so we decided to name Ronda, after Ronda Rousey, a famous UFC mixed martial artist. Her mother is Asali and father is Mikey. Full grown adult pygmy hippos have the potential to get up to 600lbs, but we estimate Rhonda will average out around 400-450lbs.

Currently Ronda sticks close to her mother and will continue that for at least the first eight months of her life. Both enjoy spending time playing in the water and soaking up the sunshine. Next time you are at the Zoo be on the lookout for Ronda!  Mom and calf are on display beside the capybara.

Posted July 1, 2024.    

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Montgomery Zoo introduces new Two-toed Sloth exhibit, featuring Odysseus and Maple

MONTGOMERY ZOO (Montgomery, AL): The Montgomery Zoo is excited to announce the public debut of a Two-toed Sloth on August 11! Odysseus, 4-years-old, came to the Montgomery Zoo from Ark Encounter in Williamstown, Kentucky.

Their native habitats are in Central and South American countries Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela.

This species has two toes on their forefeet that end with claws. Their back feet have three clawed toes. The sloths usually have tan to light brown shaggy fur. These sloths can sometimes appear green from algae collecting in their fur.

Two-toed Sloths move at about .46 foot-per-second but can move 50% faster when excited. While sloths might appear slow due to laziness, their lack of speed is due to surviving on a low energy diet of leaves. Two-toed Sloths eat leaves, buds, tender twigs, young plant shoots, fruits, and flowers.

The Montgomery Zoo Animal Care Team decided to bring in a sloth because this species has important educational value due to its unique role and natural history in its native ecosystem. In addition, this species has important captive conservation value because husbandry and breeding is still difficult in zoos. This animal is captive born, thus reducing collection pressure on native populations and offering the Montgomery Zoo staff and visitors a unique learning experience from this species.

“Sloth are a species that both keepers and the public loves – so when there were some looking for new homes from other zoos, we thought them to be the perfect choice,” Animal Care Manager Andi Clason said.

For now Odysseus’ temporary home is the exhibit by the Jaguars. Odysseus will eventually move to the Ring-tailed Lemurs current exhibit. The Lemurs themselves are moving to Monkey Island and their current habitat next to the Marmosets will be open for the sloth.

Odysseus is described as not a morning sloth, but is curious when he wakes up.

Two-toed Sloths are classified as least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). There are no major threats to the species, but habitat degradation and fragmentation are affecting some populations in Central America and Colombia.

“Sloth are a species that the majority of people love, but may not be aware that their   native habitat it quickly disappearing due to deforestation,” Animal Care Manager Andi Clason said. “By bringing this new species into the Montgomery Zoo family, we look forward to continuing the conversation about habitat conservation for species all over the globe.”

Posted August 11, 2022.    

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Montgomery Zoo adds male Giant Anteater to exhibit as part of Species Survival Plan

MONTGOMERY ZOO (Montgomery, AL): The Montgomery Zoo is proud to announce the addition of a second Giant Anteater to its Maned Wolf and Giant Anteater exhibit on August 1, 2022. Barques, a 14-year-old male, joins female Giant Anteater Zoe, 14, and Maned Wolves, Paulo and Adrianna, at the exhibit on the recommendation of the Species Survival Plan (SSP).

The SSP is an animal conservation program created exclusively by the American Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) to better manage animals in captivity, from recommending breeding to companionship, for zoos. Some of the Montgomery Zoo’s SSP animals include Anteaters, Maned Wolves, Pygmy Hippos, and Andean Condor, to name a few.

The Giant Anteater SSP recommended specifically pairing Barques with Zoe for companionship. Barques transferred from Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange, New Jersey, but was born in Audubon Zoo in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Giant Anteaters are solitary animals. However it is natural for Giant Anteaters to cross paths with others of their species occasionally in the wild.  So to create a naturalistic social environment, the zoo will allow Zoe and Barques to choose whether or not they would like to interact with each other on display.

Giant Anteaters are native to Central and South America, except for Guatemala, Uruguay and El Salvador. They live in grasslands, wetlands, and tropical forests where they almost exclusively eat termites and ants. Giant anteaters may eat an average of 35,000 ants and termites a day.

Giant Anteaters are listed as a Vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). About 5,000 live in their native Central and South American homes.

Barques is described as relaxed and unbothered.

“The Animal Care team is excited to welcome Barques to the zoo on an SSP recommendation,” Animal Care Manager Andi Clason said. “By adding another anteater this allows a more naturalistic social setting for our Maned Wolves as well as our female anteater – who will have choice on how much time she would like to spend with her new companion.”

Posted August 1, 2022.    

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Montgomery Zoo adds three Greater Kudu to African Savanna exhibit, creates new herd

MONTGOMERY ZOO (Montgomery, AL): The Montgomery Zoo is proud to announce the arrival of three new Greater Kudu to its African Savanna exhibit on July 28. Greater Kudu Ernie, Angie, and Rogue, join Jolene, of the same species at the display, forming a natural herd.

Greater Kudu are large woodland antelopes that have reddish-brown or bluish-gray fur with four to 12 white stripes that run along their torso. Males of the species have beards along their throats, and large horns with two and a half twists. Greater Kudu are native to eastern and southern Africa and live in savanna, grasslands, and forests. They are listed as least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Being a herd species, Jolene is happier with companions and the new kudu gives the African Savanna exhibit a more naturalistic environment. Breeding is expected when Ernie reaches maturity and the zoo hopes to enter the Greater Kudu into population management in the future.

The Kudu transferred from Metro Richmond Zoo in Moseley, Virginia. The Kudu are young and wary, but adjusting to their environment quickly.

“As one of the few zoos exhibiting Greater Kudu, we are thrilled to welcome Rouge, Ernie, and Angie to the Montgomery Zoo,” Animal Care Manager Andi Clason said. “Our Zoo has a storied history with this species and we look forward to observing and enjoying these youngsters establish themselves into a herd.”

Posted July 28, 2022.    

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Two female Bison welcomed at the Montgomery Zoo, recreating species natural environment

MONTGOMERY ZOO (Montgomery, AL):  The Montgomery Zoo is proud to welcome two female Bison to join our North America display on July 26. Catori and Sicari, join Tank, the male of their species, recreating a natural environment for them.

Bison are herd animals and males will live near a herd of females or belong to a herd of males. The Montgomery Zoo added the new Bison to give Tank a more natural environment after female, Sioux, passed away May 9, 2021. Tank is already quite smitten with the new girls and the zoo expects them to be pretty inseparable now that they’re on display together.

“Catori” is Native American for “spirit” while “Sicari” is Native American for “sweet.” Catori is described as bold and more curious while Sicari is more of a follower. The young Bison transferred from Catoctin Zoo in Thurmont, Maryland.

Bison are the largest North American mammal and males of the species can weigh up to 2,000 pounds while females can weigh up to 1,000 pounds. American Bison primarily eat grass, weeds, and plants and can forage for up to 9 to 11 hours per day.

American Bison are considered near threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The species were almost hunted to extinction in the late 19th century, until conservation efforts were made in the 20th century.

“We are excited to welcome Catori and Sicari to the North America realm,” Animal Care Manager Andi Clason said. “As the nation’s largest land animal it is our goal to help connect the public to not only exotic animals, but also those that can be found in their own ‘backyard.’ Bison are an incredible example of a species that can be almost extinct, and then brought back through conservation efforts.”

Posted July 26, 2022.    

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Montgomery Zoo to debut bachelor herd of four Nile Lechwe, first of its species, in African Forest display

MONTGOMERY ZOO (Montgomery, AL):  The Montgomery Zoo is excited to publicly debut four male Nile Lechwe, the first of their species, in the African Forest exhibit on July 19. The Lechwe, named Zap, Sjambok, Rungu, and Kaskara, make up the bachelor herd.

Nile Lechwe are antelope whose name translates from Bantu to “Nile antelope.” Nile Lechwe inhabit hot, wet climates in Africa, such as the Bahr-el-Ghazel district of the Southern Sudan, and in Machar Gambella marshes of Ethiopia. Because of these climates, they fit right in to the African Forest display which has tree shading and water for its animal to swim. The Lechwe join the zoo’s Eastern Bongos, Red-Flanked Duiker, and East African Crowned Crane in the African Forest display.

Interestingly for the species appearance, males and females are the same blonde color when they’re born, but males’ coats change from blonde to dark brown with a white patch on the back of their necks as they grow into adults.

Young Lechwe naturally group in small bachelor herds and the Montgomery Zoo hopes to create a breeding environment for the species in the future. No current plans for breeding are being made.

Nile Lechwe are categorized as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). There’s an estimated 30,000 to 40,000 in their native lands in Africa.

The four Nile Lechwe transferred from White Oak Conservation Facility in Yulee, Florida. All four Lechwe have very distinct personalities – Rungu is the calmest and most curious whereas the others are a bit more wary of people and prefer to hang out with each other.

“Nile Lechwe are unlike any ungulate the Montgomery Zoo has ever housed before,” Animal Care Manager Andi Clason said. “Their behavior, adaptations, and unique looks make them a wonderful addition to the African Forest area. They are equipped to be semi-aquatic, and utilize every bit of their new habitat. We are proud to welcome this bachelor herd and look forward to the opportunity to pique guest interest in them as well.”

Posted July 14, 2022.    

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NEW EXHIBIT OPENS at Montgomery Zoo
Snow Leopard exhibit opens to grand reviews! 

MONTGOMERY ZOO (Montgomery, AL): With great enthusiasm and anticipation, the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum is proud to announce the opening of a new snow leopard exhibit featuring Sierra. With this addition, the Montgomery Zoo’s collection will now feature four of the five world’s large feline species, or as some refer to them as “big cats.” 

The term "big cat" is used in reference to any of the five living members of the genus Panthera, namely tigers, lions, jaguars, leopards, and snow leopards. Sierra will be a welcomed addition to the Zoo’s feline family now making the Montgomery Zoo featuring four of the world's five big cat species. 

Sierra, a three year old female, comes to the Montgomery Zoo from the Metro Richmond Zoo in Virginia.  Her new home at the Montgomery Zoo is a newly renovated exhibit designed especially for her mimicking the surroundings found in her native habitat, the mountain ranges of Central and South Asia. Snow leopards are solitary and nomadic animals; however, Sierra is very curious, stealthy, and is interested in watching human guests.  

Currently, snow leopards are listed as a Vulnerable species by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This means the global population living in native habitats are estimated to be below 10,000 individuals. Their decline in population is greatly due to human conflict through mining, illegal hunting, and climate change that is affecting the snow leopard’s life and hunting style.

Sierra will reside as an excellent animal ambassador providing an opportunity for all Zoo guests to learn more about this magnificent species and what as individuals we can do to help flourish their survival status. “Sierra’s arrival shows our commitment to helping threatened species through education,” Animal Care Manager, Andi Clason says. “As the Snow Leopard’s native habitat dwindles, it is becoming imperative that a zoological population be established in conjunction with public outreach. The entire Zoo has worked together to prepare for Sierra and ensure that she will thrive in her new surroundings.”

While Sierra has many adaptations to aid in protection from cold weather – we have carefully monitored her adjustment to Alabama temperatures while she was in quarantine. As many of you recall – her habitat took quite some time to prepare, this is because as an Animal Care team we work to give our animals “choice”. We wanted to insure that Sierra has plenty of tall grass, rocks, shade, fans, misters, and hiding places to “choose” from. Not only does this provide natural environmental variation for Sierra, it allows you to test your skills at spotting an expert in camouflage! Sierra’s coat is adapted to specifically blend into the rocky mountainsides.

During this time we also completely refurbished and updated the building attached to her habitat (Thank you Maintenance Department!). So even though at first you may wonder how we can have a Snow Leopard in Alabama, take a closer look and watch what Sierra “chooses” to utilize in her habitat. You can see these type of functional differences in all of the habitats for our animals, the design and landscaping is not always for aesthetics. As you walk around the Zoo, compare a “hot-weather animal” habitat to a “cold weather animal” habitat, and see if you can spot the subtle design and enrichment choices that aid in the best care for these animals.    

Posted July 5, 2022.