Page 2 – Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance

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June 18, 2025

From CO to CA: DZCA Experts Support Marine Mammals in Crisis

Earlier this spring, a deadly ecological crisis unfolded off the coast of Southern California. A harmful algae bloom—fueled by warming ocean temperatures and nutrient runoff—stretched across hundreds of miles of coastline. What made this event especially devastating wasn’t just its scale or duration, but the combination of domoic acid toxins released by Pseudo-nitzschia algae, and an unusual spike in saxitoxin. Together, these toxins triggered neurological symptoms in hundreds of marine mammals including confusion, seizures, aggression, and even death.

The Marine Mammal Care Center (MMCC) in San Pedro, California, was one of the first facilities to raise alarms about the looming crisis. As early as January, their team began noticing an uptick in sea lions displaying signs of domoic acid toxicosis. By mid-March, MMCC had treated more than 140 sea lions—and the numbers were rising fast. Despite efforts to notify city and county officials, few emergency resources were mobilized in time to meet the overwhelming demand.

Faced with one of the worst “harmful algal bloom” events on record, the center put out an urgent call to animal care professionals across the country.

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance answered.

Over the course of the last month, ten DZCA staff members—including Animal Care Specialists, Registered Veterinary Technicians, Clinical Veterinarians, and our Veterinary Pathologist—traveled to San Pedro to support MMCC’s round-the-clock rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Working in tandem with MMCC’s local team, they helped care for over a hundred marine mammals, all suffering from the devastating effects of domoic acid exposure.

A Day in The Life at MMCC

Each day at MMCC begins early and runs long. Animal care teams start by preparing hundreds of pounds of herring—some to be served whole, some blended into a gruel (fish smoothie) for sick or young animals unable to feed on their own. Each sea lion or seal receives personalized feeding plans, vitamins, and medication, which must be monitored closely throughout the day. Between meals, care teams are cleaning enclosures, doing laundry, and assisting with animal transport, husbandry, and treatment—all while preparing healthy animals for release back into the wild.

Meanwhile, our Veterinary Medicine team staff provided essential diagnostics and documentation. Animals arriving at MMCC receive exams, bloodwork, and imaging. While some animals recover quickly, others require intensive, hands-on care for weeks to months. Sadly, not all survive.

But even in loss, there is purpose. Pathologists, including DZCA’s Dr. Sushan Han, perform necropsies that not only provide answers but also build a scientific foundation for future marine mammal care. Tissue samples are banked for toxicology and RNA research, revealing how this year’s dual-algae bloom is affecting animals in ways not previously seen. These findings are already being shared with regulatory agencies and coastal conservation networks to help shape long-term response strategies.

Hopeful News for Marine Mammals

As of late May, MMCC staff reported no new marine mammals showing signs of domoic acid poisoning, and the harmful algal bloom had cleared from local waters. Although this was the longest, most toxic, and deadliest bloom MMCC has ever experienced, they were able to overcome the crisis and give hundreds of marine mammals a second chance at life. This was largely possible thanks to public support, advocacy, and collaboration from wildlife experts nationwide.

“This year’s domoic acid event was the most severe we’ve faced, overwhelming our team with sick and stranded sea lions in need of urgent care. Responding to a crisis like this requires an extraordinary effort, and we’re incredibly grateful for the support of partners like Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance. Their generosity helped us provide lifesaving treatment and gave these animals the second chance they deserve,” said Dave Bader, MMCC Chief Operations and Education Officer.

This isn’t the first time DZCA has supported MMCC’s vital work. In 2023, we sent seven staff members to assist during a similar harmful algae bloom, providing critical hands-on care and expertise.

Dr. Jimmy Johnson, DZCA Senior Director of Wildlife Health & Conservation at DZCA, shared the following: “In our changing world, responding to situations that threaten wildlife is a community effort and we were happy to combine our wildlife care and health expertise with that of our colleagues at MMCC to help two years ago and again in 2025.”

Three DZCA Pinniped Care Specialists who work with reflected on their experience supporting MMCC:

“This is the second time that I was able to help at MMCC, the previous time being in 2023 during the last large DA event, and I am so grateful that I was able to go back and assist with animal care. Each time I have learned so much from the staff and volunteers who spent countless hours helping many seals and sea lions.

The highlight of my week was being part of releasing 15 healthy sea lions back to the ocean, as well as seeing one patient that hadn’t been eating starting to show interest in food and eat. It was a very humbling experience to see how much time and effort is put into these animals.

Now that sea lions are back at the Zoo, I hope we can really make the connection as to how special these animals are and that we can all do our part to help.”

Meryt Schumacher, DZCA Animal Care Specialist

“After working with non-releasable, rescued sea lions for years, it was incredible to get to put my skills to use to help save the sea lions who can be released back to the ocean. I love caring for the sea lions who don’t have the skills to survive on their own and being able to show our guests just how amazing this species is.

The goal is always to keep as many sea lions out in their natural habitat as possible and getting the chance to contribute to that goal will be an experience I will never forget.”

Leah Swift, DZCA Animal Care Specialist

“Having worked with our DZCA sea lions my entire zoo career, I have spent years speaking to guests about why sea lions often need to be rescued, how they can often be released, but sometimes, like in the case of Nick and Maverick, are deemed non-releasable and need to be rehomed. It is incredibly meaningful to now get to speak to my own time spent being a part of that process, both rescue and release, and to bring those experiences back here to Denver to share with our guests.”

Brandi Taylor, DZCA Animal Care Specialist

Back with a Splash: Sea Lions Return to DZCA

While part of our team supported sea lions on California’s shores, we were also preparing something special back home in Colorado. On June 20, DZCA proudly unveiled our brand-new California sea lion habitat, a vibrant and enriching space that reflects both the energy of the animals and our century-long commitment to their care.

This dynamic new habitat replaces the Zoo’s historic 1987 sea lion home with thoughtful upgrades for both animals and guests. A new saltwater, temperature-controlled pool system supports sea lion health, while behind-the-scenes areas give our Animal Care team more room to support enrichment, training, and social time. A colorful fishing village-inspired exterior echoes the coastal communities where wild sea lions live—and where our teams have been making a difference.

Visitors can now enjoy a 16-foot underwater viewing window for incredible glimpses of sea lion life below the surface, as well as daily training demonstrations that highlight each animal’s unique personality and the expert care they receive every day.

Maverick, one of four sea lions thriving in our new habitat, has a story closely tied to the work our staff supported at MMCC this year. Rescued as a malnourished pup during a 2015 stranding event, he was rehabilitated and released but stranded again after not being able to find enough food. Deemed non-releasable, Maverick found a permanent home at DZCA.

Now nearly a decade later, he’s a powerful ambassador for marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation—reflecting the journey of many animals affected by this year’s harmful algae bloom. Our new habitat allows guests to connect with sea lions like Maverick and see the impact of DZCA’s dedicated Animal Care and Health teams.

Saving Wildlife Together: Connecting Conservation and Care

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance’s mission extends well beyond its 80-acre campus. Whether responding to whether responding to wildlife emergencies, driving conservation impact in the field, or elevating our habitats, care, and impact on campus, our team’s work is rooted in science, compassion, and action.

The story of this spring’s algae bloom—and the collaborative rescue efforts it inspired—reminds us that conservation doesn’t happen in isolation, and collaboration is key to helping save wildlife.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn for more wildlife care and conservation stories!

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June 17, 2025

Young Voices for Wildlife

Centered around sustainability, our Conservation Challenge: Rethink Your Rubbish experience is a project-based learning program that helps students explore human impacts on wildlife around the globe and how people are making a difference. Middle school students begin the program with a project launch field trip to Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA), where they meet animals facing conservation issues, learn about a related sustainability practice, and hear stories of success that reinforce conservation optimism.

In following weeks, Conservation Learning staff visit the schools to help students conduct a waste audit, and lead discussion to inspire student-led action projects in their own communities. Teachers guide their students in project work using the program’s educator guide and are invited back to the Zoo in May to participate in the Student Conservation Showcase.

We were so impressed by the student presentations shared at our 2025 showcase, and we are proud to welcome some of these students as guest writers, sharing their experience as young conservationists.

Battery Saver Project

Reflection 1 Written By: Evelynne Gant and Christa McAuliffe
School: STEM Academy

“Our Battery Saver Project aimed to reduce the unnecessary use and disposal of batteries. When batteries are thrown away improperly, they can leak harmful chemicals or even explode, contaminating water and soil that animals and plants rely on. This pollution can harm wildlife and ecosystems, and eventually affect humans who consume those animals or plants. Through this project, we learned how important it is to dispose of used batteries responsibly—especially in a world where batteries are everywhere. We built our own collection boxes to encourage proper disposal and prevent environmental harm. This hands-on experience helped us understand the environmental impact of battery waste, while also improving our problem-solving and teamwork skills.

The Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) inspired us by showing how conservation begins with education and action. Their work protecting animals and ecosystems made us think more deeply about how even small changes—like proper battery disposal—can help the planet. Just as DZCA uses technology and awareness to support wildlife, our project represents a small but meaningful step toward protecting natural resources and promoting sustainability.”

Battery Saver Project

Reflection 2 Written By: Zoey Mahoney and Christa McAuliffe
School: STEM Academy

“This year, our 8th grade class took part in a schoolwide project to help protect animals and the environment by collecting and recycling used batteries. As a group, we collected over 2,700 batteries! This is really important because when batteries are thrown away, the toxic chemicals inside can leak into the water. Animals then drink that polluted water, which can make them very sick or even kill them. To help stop this from happening, we gave the batteries to a recycling company that knows how to safely get rid of them. By doing this, we possibly helped save many animals from being poisoned. Our school decided to do this project because we learned how dangerous batteries can be to wildlife.

I hope our project makes a difference and inspires more people to recycle their batteries. I also hope that future 8th grade classes at our school keep this project going. I personally learned a lot—like how batteries can explode, cause fires, and poison animals if they aren’t disposed of properly. It made me think about all kinds of animals, even pets we love like dogs, cats, birds, turtles, and fish. They can all be affected. Some signs that animals have been poisoned by battery chemicals include drooling, mouth pain, vomiting, burns in the mouth, trouble swallowing, and even fever. It’s scary to think this can happen just from batteries being in the trash.

Thank you to the Denver Zoo for letting us visit and share our project. It felt amazing to do something that could help animals everywhere.”

An Agrivoltaic Garden

Written By: Evelynn Chalupa, Olivia Whitney, and Jill Somershoe
School: Ken Caryl Middle School

“Our project began with a big goal: to reduce the emissions it takes to get food to our school and power its operations. The potential impact was clear—less air pollution for our community and healthier food options for all students.

Turning this vision into reality took serious effort. We spent months researching sustainable food sourcing, energy use, and emissions reduction. We carefully planned each phase and identified local and regional partners. The biggest challenge, however, was financial. The total cost was estimated at several hundred thousand dollars—far more than our school could afford on its own.

Despite the obstacles, we stayed committed. Each setback taught us valuable lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and clear communication. We also gained leadership skills and a stronger connection to our environment and community.

Our biggest inspiration came during a visit to the Denver Zoo, where we learned about the Rethink Your Rubbish program. Seeing the creative and impactful projects led by other students with support from DZCA opened our eyes to what was possible. Their staff’s expertise and encouragement gave us the confidence to dream big and act boldly.

With their support, we believe our project will have a lasting impact—not only by reducing emissions but by showing how students can create real change when they work together to solve meaningful problems in their communities.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

From battery recycling to agrivoltaic farming, these student-led projects show what’s possible when young people are empowered to take action for wildlife and the environment. Through hands-on learning, real-world problem solving, and the support of DZCA staff and their teachers, students are not only deepening their understanding of sustainability—they’re becoming leaders in it. By starting with the change makers of today, programs like our Conservation Challenge bring our mission to life by Inspiring Communities to Save Wildlife for Future Generations.

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Be sure to follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn for more inspiring conservation stories!

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June 11, 2025

Even Tigers Go to the Dentist

If you were at Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance on March 28, 2025, you might have seen something wild: dental care for a tiger. Dental health is an important part of overall animal wellness, especially for aging big cats like our Endangered Amur tiger, Nikita. Thanks to DZCA’s expert Veterinary Medicine team and a special partnership with Colorado State University’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Nikita received world-class care during her exam.

Collaborative Care for Nikita

As part of Nikita’s routine checkups, our Veterinary Medicine team had been monitoring signs of chewing discomfort reported by her Animal Care Specialists. Exams showed that she had a tooth root condition called resorption, which can happen in domestic cats as well. In order to improve her comfort with chewing and due to the extent of the condition, the tooth was removed.

To ensure the best outcome, we worked with Dr. Naomi Hoyer, a Board-Certified Veterinary Dentist from CSU, along with a group of veterinary students. They joined our team at the Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Animal Hospital to assist with the complex extraction.

A Comprehensive Exam From Head to Tail

In addition to her dental work, Nikita underwent a full wellness exam while under anesthesia. This included bloodwork, an ultrasound, and a full-body CT scan. This allowed our vets to check for signs of internal issues, monitor organ function, and track the effects of aging. These proactive exams are crucial to maintaining high standards of care, particularly for older animals like Nikita, who require more frequent monitoring.

A Behind-the-Scenes Look for Guests

One of the most exciting aspects of Nikita’s procedure was that it took place in the Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Animal Hospital’s state-of-the-art treatment room. This allowed guests to watch the procedure unfold through floor-to-ceiling viewing windows while they could ask any questions to our Guest Engagement Facilitators. The experience provided a unique and powerful look into the kind of expert, compassionate care that goes on every day behind the scenes at DZCA.

Thanks to the skill and collaboration from everyone involved, Nikita recovered quickly from her procedure and is back to enjoying her habitat, enrichment activities, and favorite foods. While she may be missing a molar, she’s happier and healthier than ever.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn for more vet med stories!

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May 29, 2025

Saying Goodbye to Ngozi

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ngozi, our beloved spotted hyena, on Monday, May 26. Ngozi moved to DZCA the day after her fifth birthday and was the last original resident of Benson Predator Ridge. Earlier this month, Ngozi celebrated her 26^th birthday, making her the oldest spotted hyena in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

Ngozi has been under successful long-term treatment for spondylosis, a degenerative spinal condition affecting the discs, ligaments, and joints. On Monday, our Animal Care Specialists observed a rapid decline in her hindleg mobility which would negatively impact her quality of life. Our dedicated Animal Care and Veterinary Medicine team made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize her to relieve her suffering. This decision did not come lightly and was made due to the progression of her condition and the significant effect it was having on her ability to navigate her habitat.

Ngozi passed peacefully on Monday afternoon, surrounded by those who loved and cared for her. A full postmortem examination will be performed by our Veterinary Pathologist to fully understand Ngozi’s condition and help support the scientific understanding of spotted hyenas around the world.

Remembering a Remarkable Resident

Like every loss we experience at the Zoo, saying goodbye is difficult and Ngozi’s passing has been especially hard on those who cared for her over the years. Members of our Carnivore Team have shared what working with Ngozi has meant to them:

“Ngozi was a legend, the kind people tell stories about long after they are gone. In her 21 years at Predator Ridge, she inspired and wowed millions of guests and helped positively change the perception of hyenas. After meeting her, we would often hear people say they didn’t realize hyenas were so cute, or so smart. In her time here she made an immeasurable impact on countless animal care staff, her loss is one that is felt across the country. She was our rock in the building for many years, always being able to rely on Ngozi for demonstrations, tours, to be the calming presence for new animals, and to help new animal care specialists gain confidence in themselves. One of the things I will miss the most is when Ngozi would be in the side yard by the zebras, in the morning she would see you come in and she would jump up, get excited and run as fast as she could inside to meet you at the window in the kitchen for a good morning snack. No one could resist giving Ngozi a few extra good morning snacks. Predator Ridge had never seen a day without Ngozi, and it will never be the same after her.” – Animal Care Specialist Jordan S.

“I only had the honor of taking care of Ngozi for a little over three years, but I will talk about her forever. She is such a powerful, strong-willed, smart, and hilarious girl. She was often hard to find sleeping in the sun of her favorite yard, but I think she liked it that way. And when you did see her, she was easily identified by her sweet ‘eyebrows.’ I can’t put into words how much you meant to everyone who passed through this building for the last 21 years, Ngozi. But I know you will be missed for a very long time. Thank you for sharing your life with us all these years.” – Animal Care Specialist Amelia J.

“It was an absolute honor to be one of Ngozi’s caretakers. She had so much spunk and always kept us on our toes. Her intelligence and strength never ceased to amaze me. Ngozi loved to play in the water and redecorate her exhibit with sticks and logs. She continued to learn new things in her older years and we could always count on her to be the star of our animal demonstrations. We are losing a true queen and she will be greatly missed.” – Animal Care Specialist Karli N.

“I loved working with Ngozi over the years—she never failed to make me smile when I looked at her sweet fuzzy face or with how quickly and cleverly she solved things. She did everything in her own unique way, unlike any other hyena, and that is what made her so special. Ngozi was incredibly playful with enrichment. It was always exciting to give her something new because she made it fun for us too. Her curiosity pushed us to be more creative, always looking for new ways to challenge and engage her. One memory that always makes me laugh is when we gave her a puzzle cube filled with food. Instead of carefully figuring out how each door opened, she used her strength and smarts to throw it across the room until a door opened and she could easily get the meat. It wasn’t the expected solution, but it was effective—and very Ngozi. Over her years at DZCA, Ngozi didn’t just bring us joy—she helped train many of us on how to work with spotted hyenas. She left a lasting impression, and it’s no surprise that former caretakers still check in on her. She was deeply loved and cared for.” – Assistant Curator of Carnivores Katelyn S.

Ngozi’s legacy lives on through her seven offspring and the countless human lives she touched along the way. She will be dearly missed by all those who had the pleasure of knowing and caring for her.

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May 21, 2025

All Paws on Deck: Collaborative Veterinary Care for Our African Wild Dog Pack

At Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, animal well-being is at the heart of everything we do. On May 7, our Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Animal Hospital welcomed some very special patients: our Endangered African wild dog pack Theodore (Teddy) Roosevelt, David (Dave) Livingstone, and Nigel. These eight-year-old brothers came in for their biannual wellness exams, a critical part of our commitment to world-class animal care.

Specialized Care With Expert Partners

As wild dogs age, they’re at higher risk for heart issues and dental disease. That’s why we collaborated with partners, Veterinary Cardiologist Dr. Brian Scansen and Veterinary Dentist Dr. Naomi Hoyer, both from Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine to utilize their expertise while managing these specialized procedures.

With the help from Dr. Scansen, Dr. Hoyer and their teams, we were able to carefully evaluate each dog’s heart and teeth, while our DZCA Veterinary Medicine team led the anesthesia, overall wellness checks, treatments and vaccines, in addition to completing CT scans.

We also looked at Dave’s dry eyes and assessed Nigel’s lower back to make sure our tripod pup remains in good shape.

Collaboration in Action

Coordinating this type of multi-disciplinary exam takes time and teamwork. Over the course of a month, our dedicated Animal Care Specialists, Veterinary Medicine staff, and CSU partners worked together to plan every detail—from the order of anesthesia to transportation and recovery protocols.

Thanks to that preparation, the process was smooth, efficient, and most importantly, safe and stress-free for the animals.

Understanding the Unique Needs of Our Pack

African wild dogs are highly social animals with a strict hierarchy. That means veterinary care requires careful planning to protect their pack dynamics. To minimize stress, all three wild dogs were anesthetized simultaneously. It was equally important that they woke up in the correct order—Teddy first, as pack leader, followed by Dave and Nigel—to preserve their social structure.

This attention to behavioral nuance ensures the health of the animals not just physically, but emotionally and socially as well.

Conservation Through Compassionate Care

Excellent animal care goes hand-in-hand with wildlife conservation. By providing specialized, proactive medical treatment, we help ensure the longevity and quality of life for the animals in our care. That helps supports broader conservation goals for Endangered species like our wild dogs, who are part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan.

At DZCA, collaboration between expert teams and external partners allows us to deliver the highest standard of care and contributes meaningfully to the global effort to protect wildlife.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn for more vet med stories!

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May 20, 2025

BABY BULLETIN: Fluffy New Additions to DZCA

New Chicks on the Block

For the first time at Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA), five scaly-sided merganser chicks have hatched—an adorable win for their Endangered species! The proud parents are Jericho Chris, an almost four-year-old female, and Andrew Demetrius, a three-year-old male. Both adults live in our Primate Panorama Forest Aviary, where guests can visit and learn more about this rare duck species.

Scaly-sided Mergansers are known for their diving ability, which allows them to plunge underwater to catch food like small fish, aquatic insects, and crustaceans. Native to the forests and wetlands of China, Korea, Russia, Japan, Thailand, Myanmar, and Taiwan, these ducks are facing growing threats due to habitat loss, pollution, and illegal hunting.

They are currently listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, with only 2,400–4,500 individuals remaining in the wild.

A Strong Start Behind the Scenes

The chicks were incubated and hatched in our Avian Propagation Center (APC), where our dedicated Animal Care team is now supporting their early development. Even at just a few days old, the chicks are already swimming and diving for food on their own, which is an incredible display of natural behavior and a positive sign for their growth.

To ensure these chicks get the best start, our team is feeding, monitoring, and even teaching swimming lessons to prepare them for life alongside their parents. Once they’re strong, confident divers, they’ll join mom and dad in the Primate Panorama Forest Aviary.

Inside the Avian Propagation Center

Did you know DZCA is home to one of the largest Avian Propagation Centers in the country? Located behind the scenes, this 14,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility houses and breeds many endangered and critically endangered birds in an effort to steward species conservation. From hand-rearing chicks to supporting breeding and incubation, the APC plays a crucial role in helping sensitive bird species thrive.

Each new chick represents a hopeful milestone for the species and a testament to what’s possible when conservation, science, and care come together.

A Hopeful Future for a Rare Species

These hatchings are part of an Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan (SSP). SSPs are collaborative programs among accredited zoos to breed and manage threatened species and ensure genetically healthy and diverse populations. We’re proud to support this important work through our continued participation in SSPs.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn for updates on these chicks and for more animal care stories!

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April 25, 2025

Collaborative Cancer Care for African Penguin, Keni

At Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA), every animal receives expert, individualized care, no matter how complex their needs may be. Keni, a 16-year-old member of our Critically Endangered African penguin flock, has been receiving life-saving cancer treatment thanks to a powerful collaboration between DZCA and Colorado Animal Specialty & Emergency’s (CASE) passionate veterinarians. Her journey is a testament to the incredible dedication of these staff members and their unwavering commitment to animal wellbeing.

Keni’s Cancer Journey

In February 2025, animal care staff at Pinnacol African Penguin Point observed a mass on the upper portion of Keni’s beak. She was quickly scheduled for diagnostic imaging at our Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Animal Hospital, where a CT scan and biopsy confirmed a diagnosis of malignant melanoma in her nasal passage.

To determine the best path forward, our Veterinary Medicine team consulted with experts from other Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited institutions and veterinary specialists. Based on those conversations, our team decided to move forward with radiation therapy with the generous support of CASE.

Advanced Care Through Collaboration

Keni’s treatment plan includes radiation therapy and immunotherapy using a canine melanoma vaccine—an innovative approach tailored to her unique physiology and condition. On March 26, she was transported to CASE’s Boulder facility for her first round of radiation and the initial dose of her vaccine. She recovered quickly and was eating and behaving normally the very next day.

She returned to CASE for additional treatments on April 3, 9, and 17, ultimately completing a total of four radiation therapy sessions and receiving two doses of immunotherapy. Throughout it all, Keni has shown remarkable resilience and continues to do well under the careful observation of her animal care and veterinary teams.

“At CASE, we are honored to collaborate with the dedicated team at Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance to provide advanced radiation therapy and immunotherapy for Keni,” said Dr. Clarissa Freemyer, a Radiation Oncologist at CASE. “Our goal is to tailor treatment to her unique needs while prioritizing her comfort and quality of life. This partnership exemplifies the power of veterinary specialists working together to provide the best possible care for every patient, no matter how small or unique.”

A Promising Prognosis

Though Keni is still undergoing treatment, her prognosis is positive. The teams at DZCA and CASE are closely monitoring her progress and adapting her care to ensure she stays comfortable and continues to thrive.

DZCA Clinical Veterinary Dr. Dan Culter shared more about this animal care story:

“Keni’s treatment has been possible through teamwork and collaboration to make the best decision for her wellbeing. Our animal care staff first noticed the mass and have been instrumental in monitoring her well being so that we have Keni’s quality of life at the forefront. The veterinary teams, both at DZCA and at CASE, have created a treatment plan that addresses the unique challenges of penguin medicine while giving the best chance for overcoming this disease.”

Guests can visit Keni and the rest of our flock at Pinnacol African Penguin Point, sponsored by Pinnacol Assurance, where our commitment to conservation and care is on full display. This new habitat is designed to support the physical and emotional wellbeing of this Critically Endangered species, while also educating guests about their urgent need for conservation.

Saving Wildlife Together

Keni’s journey highlights the extraordinary level of veterinary expertise and compassion that defines the work of DZCA and CASE.

Her treatment is just one of the many ways we are Saving Wildlife Together—not just through field conservation, but through everyday care for the animals who call DZCA home.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn for updates on Keni’s journey and more animal wellbeing stories!

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April 23, 2025

Celebrate World Arbor Day with DCZA

Written By: Viktoria Barr, Arbor Specialist

Why Trees Matter

We all know that trees are important, but do you know why trees are important? Aside from providing the oxygen we breathe, trees come with copious amounts of benefits to us as humans, to native wildlife, and to all of the animals that call Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance home. To name a few of these benefits, trees provide shade, food, shelter, and even monetary and medicinal benefits. Without trees, we would not have the everyday items we love like coffee, aspirin, paper, rubber, lumber, and of course, fruit! Trees also regulate our climate, cool our cities, conserve water runoff and erosion, and sequester carbon from the atmosphere. It’s also been shown that trees can relieve stress and provide positive changes in mental health to humans and animals, just by existing in the same space as them.

And so, every year on the last Friday of April (this year, April 25), we celebrate Arbor Day—a day where we can raise awareness about the vitality of trees and encourage sustainable tree planting and care globally and throughout our communities.

The Importance of Long-Term Tree Care

Like yourself, trees in the urban environment need to be cared for after being planted just as you need cared for after you are born. Trees require maintenance throughout their life, like staying hydrated, getting routine haircuts, and making sure they are getting all of their vitamins as they grow up. Imagine how your hair might look if you went five or 10 or 20 years without a haircut—it would probably become quite unruly! It’s very similar for trees. Routine trimming of live branches and the removal of dead limbs is necessary for overall tree health and will reduce the chance of someone becoming injured by falling branches.

The Coexistence Between Healthy Trees, Wildlife and Ecosystems

To properly care for a tree from cradle to grave, there are a few things you must consider.

First, where is the tree going to be planted? Have you selected a tree that is “native” or local to the region in which it will be planted? Picking out trees that are local to the region in which you wish to plant them will benefit you, the trees, and the local wildlife. In Denver, a tree might be able to survive our hot, steppe climate with ample watering, but it would likely be better to select a tree that does not require a lot of watering – which will save you time, money and is much more sustainable in the long term (since Denver does not receive a lot of rainfall).

Additionally, local wildlife has evolved to coexist with localized plant species and typically form mutualistic bonds (meaning both parties benefit). Planting noxious and non-native trees should be avoided, as they can become uncontrollable and take over habitat for native species, potentially becoming invasive if they are not already deemed so (the Tree of Heaven or Ailanthus is a prime example of this).

Additionally, planting “native” or “local” isn’t good just because it’s a popular buzz term. When you plant native and/or localized trees (and shrubs and flowers), local wildlife (pollinators, furry critters, insects, etc.) all benefit because they have formed symbiotic relationships with each other. For example, the Colorado Hairstreak (Hypaurotis crysalus, Colorado’s state insect) is a beautiful purple butterfly that relies solely on the gambel oak tree (Quercus gambelii), which grows here naturally.

You may have noticed that some oaks tend to hold onto their leaves all throughout winter and then drop them when new leaves emerge in the spring—the gambel oak is no exception to this. An adult Hairstreak lays its eggs on a gambel oak leaf in the fall/winter, and then when the caterpillars hatch in the spring, the caterpillars eat the new, young oak leaves. After the caterpillars pupate into adults, they eat sap from the tree. If the oaks were to drop their leaves in the fall/winter, this relationship would not work.

Colorado Hairstreaks will never leave the grove of gambel oak trees where they were hatched, and under ideal conditions, gambel oaks can survive well past 100 years old. This is just one example of how trees benefit our wildlife, but it’s easy to see how important they can be to even one (albeit small) species!

A Simple Way to Celebrate Arbor Day

This Arbor Day, consider taking a walk around the Zoo or your neighborhood and take in all of the benefits that trees provide for us. How many different species of trees can you name while you walk? Do you notice any birds or animals using the trees? Do you come across anything that might not exist without trees (park benches, light poles, books, etc.)? Consider where you might like to see more trees planted—and who might ultimately benefit from them for many decades or centuries to come.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn for more stories from our Horticulture Department!

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April 21, 2025

Sustainability in Action: DZCA’s Commitment to a Greener Future

Written By: Stephanie Bramwell, Sustainability Coordinator

Environmental sustainability, responsible use of resources now to ensure adequate resources for the future, is a priority for us at Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA). We recognize that to save wildlife, we need to preserve wild spaces. The Environmental Department at DZCA leads staff, volunteers, and guests in sustainability efforts year-round. We’re working to reduce waste production, water usage, and energy consumption to the greatest extent possible, while providing exceptional care for our animals and awe-inspiring moments for guests.

Read on to learn more about how DZCA reduces waste, water, and energy.

Waste

Have you ever considered why waste signage is so confusing? This may not be a question most people ask, but DZCA’s staff think about trash a lot. Something as simple as a sign on a trash can sounds mundane; however, there’s a lot of variety in how waste is communicated. Is it “trash” or “landfill?” Are recycling bins blue or purple? These variations can cause confusion at the bin.

To help address this confusion, DZCA set out to create a standard and common language across the Front Range. In 2024, our staff collaborated with several public-facingcommunity-based venues—including Denver Art Museum, Denver Arts & Venues, Denver Botanic Gardens, Denver International Airport, Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and Greener Theatre Colorado—to co-create a guide that sets boundaries on the symbol, terminology, and color used for waste bins.

The goal in doing this work is for each organization to speak the same language with our waste signage. This way, when you visit the Zoo, rock out at a concert, cheer on our local sports teams, or catch a flight for vacation, we’ve reduced some of the confusion. We know we have a long way to go to improve waste diversion across the Front Range, but this is one move in the right direction.

Blair Neelands, Director of Sustainability & Environmental Compliance, and Cassie Williams, Signage Project Manager, presented the project to colleagues at the mid-year conference for the Association of Zoos & Aquariums this March. Some institutions were interested in using our guide and others were inspired to work with their community to create their own standards.

DZCA will be using the standards to update the waste signs later this year. You may not have noticed our waste signs before, but you might now!

Water

Did you know the water in Denver flows to the South Platte River and eventually to the Mississippi? Millions of people, as well as wildlife and their habitats, are touched by this water. We’re doing our part to keep the South Platte clean by installing gutter bins in storm drains around the Zoo.

Gutter bins are mesh bags that sit just below the grate of storm drains and catch any litter, rocks, mulch, or other debris that may enter the storm drain, while allowing water to pass through. When the bags fill up with debris, Zoo staff empty the gutter bins in the trash and then return them to the storm drains. There are currently ten gutter bins at DZCA and we’re planning to purchase more over the next few years!

Energy

Tropical Discovery is historically the highest energy user at DZCA, accounting for 20% of the Zoo’s energy consumption. This is unsurprising because it is home to approximately two-thirds of animals at the Zoo and is a tropical rainforest in the middle of Colorado. Over the past two years, we’ve invested in large and small projects aimed at reducing the energy consumption of the building.

In 2023, we purchased a new cooling tower and upgraded Life Support Systems (LSS) pumps, staged boilers to reduce energy demand, cleaned HVAC coils to reduce stress on fans, and switched to bag filters to improve system efficiency. These upgrades resulted in a 53% reduction in electricity and 10% reduction in natural gas in 2024, compared to the previous 5-year average.

Building on this success, in 2024 we closed Tropical Discovery to guests for two months in order to replace 13,000 sq. ft. of skylights. The new glass is expected to better insulate the building; keeping more heat in the building will reduce energy consumption and heating cost. We’re eagerly waiting until the fall of 2025 to compare a full year of post-roof improvement data with the building’s previous energy consumption.

Frog in Tropical Discovery at Denver Zoo

Life at the Zoo has a variety of complex needs, from our animals to guests and staff. Investments in energy, water, and waste reductions are investments in the future well-being of the animals and people in our care, often with current benefits like clearer signage, reduced flooding, and lower energy bills.

You can support our sustainability efforts during your next visit to the Zoo by bringing a refillable water bottle, separating recycling from trash, and keeping an eye out for information about how your environmental sustainability efforts help save wildlife.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn for more updates on our environmental sustainability efforts!

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April 6, 2025

DZCA’s Baby Boom: Meet Our Newest Arrivals

Each new arrival is more than just adorable additions to our animal family—they represent hope for the future of their species. Ready for all the Zoo baby cuteness? Meet our newest residents:

The Little Giant: Endangered Reticulated Giraffe Calf

After an incredible 444-day pregnancy, first-time parents BB and Jasiri welcomed a male reticulated giraffe calf on March 7, 2025. Born at 5’11” and weighing around 170 pounds, this gentle giant has been a wonderful addition to our herd and his Endangered species. He spends his days bonding with mom, exploring with “uncle” Dobby and getting to know his new home. If you’re lucky, you may spot him outdoors for short periods of time (weather permitting) or cozying up with mom indoors.

On April 22, we officially announced baby’s new name! Thorn, the name chosen by public vote, is a nod to the thorn-covered acacia trees giraffes love. Not only did our incredible community help us choose the perfect name, but you all also helped us exceed our fundraising goal. Because of your support, we have been able to continue providing top-notch care for our growing giraffe family.

Be sure to say hi to Thorn during your next visit to DZCA!

Little Ass, Lots of Sass: Critically Endangered Somali Wild Ass Foal

Meet Aster, our very first Somali wild ass foal, born on January 14 to mom Daisy and first-time dad Kamowa! Named for the vibrant flower and a nod to her mom, Aster is full of personality.

Somali wild ass are Critically Endangered, with fewer than 150 individuals left in the wild. With only 11 accredited institutions housing them in North America, every birth—especially Aster’s—is a massive conservation milestone.

Say hi to Aster and the rest of our herd in our Somali wild ass habitat.

Say G’Day to Our Red-Necked Wallaby Joeys

There’s a whole lot of pouch-peeking going on in Wallaby Way! Our newly opened Down Under habitat just welcomed its first-ever wallaby joeys—two half-siblings born just weeks apart to moms Adelaide and Lachlan, and dad Cricket.

These marvelous marsupials are beginning to explore the world outside the pouch, and you might just catch them in action during your next visit.

ICYMI: Our Animal Care Specialists had a gender reveal for the oldest joey. A red-necked wallaby joey baby shower might not have been on your 2025 bucket list, but you need to see it!

Greatest in Our Hearts: Two New Lesser Kudu Calves

Our kudu herd just got a whole lot bigger—and cuter! We’re thrilled to welcome not one, but two lesser kudu calves to the DZCA family.

Born on March 7 and April 25, these sweet baby girls are already showing off their unique personalities. The older calf—born to mom Elsa and dad Machi—has been named Elphaba and loves to zoom around the kudu yard. Her half sister—born to mom Eleanor—hasn’t been named yet but is calm and curious.

Though they may be called “lesser” kudus, they’re anything but ordinary in our hearts. If you’re visiting soon, keep your eyes peeled—you just might catch a glimpse of these adorable additions and the rest of our growing kudu family!

Making a Splash: Meet Our Newest Cownose Stingray Pup

We’re thrilled to introduce Murphy the newest addition to Stingray Cove™!

Born during his journey to DZCA, Murph made a memorable entrance—arriving right on the transport truck! His mom, Camilla, is an experienced parent, and Murphy is her fourth pup and third son.

Murphy is already settling in and charming guests at Stingray Cove, where you can meet him up close, touch southern stingrays, feed graceful cownose rays, and spot bamboo and epaulette sharks cruising through their 15,000-gallon pool. It’s an unforgettable, hands-on experience that highlights the beauty of these animals—and the importance of protecting them in the wild.

Come say hi to Murph during your next visit!

Fan Favorites

Even though they weren’t born this year, our older babies are still making a big impression.

Wild Child: Critically Endangered Sumatran Orangutan Baby

Siska, our Critically Endangered Sumatran orangutan baby born in August 2023, continues to delight guests and staff with her playfulness and curiosity. You can keep up with her antics by visiting our Great Apes habitat in Primate Panorama.

We Love Lucy: Critically Endangered African Penguin Chick

Lucy, our Critically Endangered African penguin hatched who in October 2024, continues waddling her way into our hearts. Thanks to her dedicated Animal Care and Veterinary Medicine team, she overcame health challenges and is thriving at her home in Pinnacol African Penguin Point.

Springtime at DZCA. Where Imaginations Run Wild.

With new arrivals and exciting babies still on the way, there’s no better time to visit the Zoo. Springtime at DZCA is packed with unforgettable moments, adorable arrivals and wonderful wildlife wins. Celebrate conservation milestones, connect with wildlife and create memories that will last a lifetime.