Denver Zoo is going wild over four endangered African wild dog puppies born here on Nov. 20, 2017. For the past three months, the puppies have been behind the scenes in their private maternity den under the protective care of their mother, Tilly. Keepers say the three male puppies, Nigel, Theodore Roosevelt and Livingstone, and one female puppy, Cholula, are healthy, curious, and playful, and ready for their public debut. Guests will have a chance to see the puppies every day from 12-2 p.m. in the Pahali Ya Mwana yard in Benson Predator Ridge starting Friday, Feb. 16 through the end of the month, and in various habitats throughout Benson Predator Ridge starting Mar. 1, depending on the weather.
@DenverZoo in the Wild
Remembering Nigel ❤️
Today we share the final chapter in the inspiring story of Nigel, an 8-year-old tripod African painted dog, whose story of perseverance inspired our community.
Born at Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance in November 2017, Nigel was known for his playful personality, three-legged walk and mischievous habit of stealing food from his brothers, Teddy and Livingstone (Dave).
After being diagnosed with severe hip dysplasia as a pup, Nigel underwent surgery to amputate his right hind leg. With specialized veterinary care, physical therapy and support from his pack, he adapted remarkably well and enjoyed nearly nine years surrounded by his family.
Recently, Nigel experienced a serious injury to his remaining hind leg. Despite supportive care, his condition continued to decline, and our teams made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize him to protect his quality of life.
Nigel`s journey was made possible by the extraordinary dedication of our Animal Care and Veterinary Medicine teams, who worked together to support his health and well-being throughout his life. Since African painted dogs` typical lifespan is 10 - 12 years, Nigel living to just shy of his 9th birthday is truly a testament to his spirit and the dedication of his care teams.
"I will miss seeing his fluffy cheeks and hearing his beautiful singing voice ❤️. He overcame so much during his life, he will be very missed." -Katelyn Stache, Associate Curator of Carnivores
"Nigel had a large presence, and his loss is felt deeply and has left a big hole in the pack and on our team." -Jordan Schimming, Animal Care Specialist
"Nigel was such a special animal to work with. He faced many challenges throughout his life, but his intelligence and determination allowed him to excel. He loved his pack and they all made sure to take care of him through his entire life. Nigel was such a strong individual and I am honored to have been one of his caretakers." -Karli Newton, Animal Care Specialist. He will be deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved him.
Please join us in remembering Nigel by sharing your favorite memories in the comments.
Today, our two southern white rhinos made their long-awaited public debut, and the welcome they received was nothing short of incredible. Guests signed giant rhino-sized welcome cards, rang the rhino, met Animal Ambassador Harley, and celebrated alongside local artists who brought even more creativity and color to the day. It was a neighborhood party worthy of two very big new neighbors.
Viazi and Mkuu are the first southern white rhinos in DZCA’s 130-year history, and today marked the beginning of a chapter we couldn’t be more excited about.
None of this would have been possible without the generosity of those who believed in this vision from the start. Thank you to the Schoelzel Family Foundation, the Kintzele Family, and our anonymous donors for your support of their habitat transformation and safe transport from Florida. Your investment made today happen.
Welcome home, boys. Denver is so glad you’re here. 🦏
School’s out for Thanksgiving week and adventure is wide open at DZCA!
Our Fall Safari Camps are the perfect way to keep kids curious, active, and hands-on with nature while you enjoy some peace of mind.
Find the Feast | November 23 How do Zoo nutritionists make the holidays special for 2,500+ animals? Kids will dig into animal diets and discover how tasty treats support top-notch care for our wild family!
Enrichment Escapades | November 24 How do Zoo animals stay active, curious, and engaged every day? Kids will design their own enrichment challenges and think like an Animal Care expert!
Both camps include outdoor exploration, so bundle up and get ready for a wild week! 🍂
Register now through the link in bio!
#FallCamp #SafariCamp #DenverZooConservationAlliance #KidsActivities #Thanksgiving #FamilyFun #Denver
This weekend, Día de los Muertos comes alive at DZCA!
Our Hispanic Heritage Month activation is in full swing, and the space around our former Felines Building has been transformed into a vibrant celebration of culture, community, and wildlife. Come experience it for yourself!
🕯️ A beautiful ofrenda, a space for remembrance and reflection
🎵 Live music performances
🦜 Animal ambassador encounters
🎨 Interactive art with local artist Óscar Becerra
🐆 Colorful alebrijes inspired by Zoo animals
In partnership with the @mexicultural in Denver this experience is included with your daytime admission, all are welcome to come explore, celebrate, and connect. 🌺
#DiaDeLosMuertos #HispanicHeritageMonth #DenverZooConservationAlliance #MexicanCulturalCenter #Denver #Community #SavingWildlifeTogether
