5 New Animals at the Milwaukee County Zoo

This summer, the Milwaukee County Zoo has welcomed several exciting new additions to its animal family.

Whether you’re an avid zoo visitor or planning your first trip, here are five new animals you won’t want to miss:

1. Japanese Macaque

On April 23rd, a baby Japanese macaque named Mai was born on Monkey Island. Known for their playful and social nature, macaques are always a delight to watch.

The name Mai means brightness or dance in Japanese, fitting for this lively little one who can be seen playing with her troop on Macaque Island.

2. Baird’s Tapir

Frida, a five-year-old Baird’s tapir, joined the zoo last October from the Houston Zoo. This species is endangered, and Frida’s presence is part of a conservation effort to protect them.

Visitors can find her in the South American Yard, where she enjoys her spacious and enriching environment.

3. Amur Tiger

Natasha, an 11-year-old Amur tiger, has recently made the Milwaukee County Zoo her home. Amur tigers are critically endangered, and Natasha’s arrival is part of a breeding program aimed at conservation.

She is currently undergoing treatment for blastomycosis, a fungal infection, but zookeepers are optimistic about her recovery. Natasha can be seen in the Florence Mila Borchert Big Cat Country, alongside two other tigers, Kash and Tula.

4. Male Silverback Gorilla

Azizi, a male silverback gorilla, arrived at the zoo in January from the Lincoln Park Zoo. He now leads a troop in the Stearns Family Apes of Africa building. As a critically endangered western lowland gorilla, Azizi’s presence is crucial for breeding efforts.

He has already formed strong bonds with his troop members, Dotty and Nadami, and zookeepers are hopeful for a baby gorilla in the future.

5. Prehensile-Tailed Porcupette

The Small Mammal Building has a new resident: a female prehensile-tailed porcupette, born on June 4th.

These nocturnal creatures are known for their unique tails that help them grasp branches as they navigate the trees. You can spot the baby porcupette with her parents, exploring her new habitat.

What’s New at the Zoo?

In addition to these new animal residents, the Milwaukee County Zoo has been busy with several exciting projects and updates:

Renovated Exhibits

The zoo is currently renovating the Humboldt Penguin Habitat, tripling the pool size and improving viewing areas. Penguins are temporarily housed in the Flamingo Building during construction.

Additionally, phase three of the Adventure Africa exhibit is underway, with plans to reintroduce rhinoceroses by next summer.

Limited-Time Exhibits and Tours

The Dinosaur Discovery exhibit features life-like, animatronic dinosaurs that move and roar, offering a glimpse into the prehistoric past. For a more personalized experience, the Wild Connections Tours provide behind-the-scenes access to some of the zoo’s favorite animals, including North American River Otters. These tours require separate bookings.

New Culinary Experience

The zoo has welcomed a new executive chef, Ashley Turner, who has revamped the menu with a Tex-Mex and Southern flair. Highlights include dishes from the Wisconsin State Fair’s Sporkies’ competition.

Visitors can enjoy these culinary delights during the annual A La Carte food and music festival from August 15-18.

---

Whether you’re there to meet the new animals or explore the latest renovations and events, the Milwaukee County Zoo promises an engaging and enriching experience for visitors of all ages.