The Bramble Park Zoo stayed busy this winter, with staff caring for animals, welcoming new arrivals and preparing for warmer months ahead. Now, with spring in full swing, the zoo is ready to share these exciting changes with the community.
“The Zoo is buzzing,” said Stacy Plocher, Zoo Superintendent. “Warmer weather brings new energy to both our animals and visitors, making it the perfect time to visit and see the animals more active.”
One of the newest additions is Stormy, a 27-year-old male Siamang who arrived in December. He weighs about 25 lbs. and is very intelligent. Siamang are known for their impressive calls, which can be heard from up to two miles away. Stormy's settled in nicely with our female, Bahana, and you can often spot them snuggling together near the bison and Spider Monkeys. Keep an ear out for their loud, echoing calls.
In January, the zoo welcomed two Red-Tailed Hawks, both rescued through its rehabilitation program. The hawks had suffered wing injuries, and while they have healed, they are no longer able to hunt in the wild. Now, they have found a permanent home at the zoo. Find the hawks in their exhibit and watch for their vibrant colors.
Another exciting addition is Cheya, an 8-year-old male Swift Fox. Known for his outgoing and playful personality, Cheya can often be seen lounging on his favorite log in the front of his habitat. Zoo staff are hopeful he will form a bond with Stella, the zoo’s resident female swift fox. Cheya and Stella live in the Diversity of Life Complex next to the ducks and Great Horned Owls.
Adding to the excitement are Lino and Piercy, two male red pandas, who arrived at the end of January. They are running and climbing all over their exhibit in the Diversity of Life Complex and are already making themselves at home. Lino's a people-watcher, often coming right up to the window, while Piercy is a bit more reserved. They both enjoy bamboo and participating in the Zoo’s training program.
With spring in the air, the kangaroo exhibit is now open, and the joeys that spent the winter in their mothers’ pouches are starting to hop around. The Zoo has a full yard this year with 12 kangaroos (soon to be 13).
In the coming weeks, the zoo will also begin moving its bird collection back to outdoor habitats, including the introduction of new whistling ducks and red-billed blue magpies. Announcements will be made once the birds are ready to be outside.
“We’ve been working hard to make the zoo a great place to visit this spring. Come enjoy the sunshine, meet the new arrivals, and experience all that Bramble Park Zoo has to offer,” said Plocher.