TAMPA, Fla. – It’s a summer of celebrations at ZooTampa at Lowry Park, with a wave of new animal arrivals delighting staff and visitors alike. The “Summer Baby Boom” encompasses several species, including some that are critically endangered, underscoring the Zoo’s vital role in conservation efforts.
From tiny hooves to delicate beaks, the Zoo’s newest residents span a range of species. Recent births include a critically endangered Bali Mynah, a near-threatened bay duiker, a Marabou stork, a lorikeet, and two impala calves. This influx has kept the Zoo’s dedicated animal care team busy providing specialized care for each newcomer.
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“It’s been an exciting summer; we’ve had numerous births and hatches throughout the Zoo,” said Chris Massaro, Chief Zoological Officer. “Everywhere you look, there’s something new to discover—tiny hooves, little beaks, curious eyes. These new arrivals are not only adorable; they are also part of important conservation efforts. We hope they inspire our guests to take action to protect and preserve wildlife.”
ZooTampa proudly participates in the Species Survival Plan® (SSP), a collaborative initiative among zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). This program is crucial for managing and conserving populations of hundreds of species. The recent births at ZooTampa are a testament to the success of these programs.
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Highlights of the Baby Boom:
Critically Endangered Bali Mynah: The hatching of a Bali Mynah chick in the Australasia Aviary marks a significant conservation victory. This is only the second Bali Mynah chick born at ZooTampa in over two decades. The species is critically endangered, making this birth a proud moment for the team who diligently worked towards this milestone. The chick is growing quickly and beginning to explore, while its first-time parents continue to provide care.
Florida’s Feathered Friends: The Florida section of the Zoo welcomed two new Roseate Spoonbill chicks this summer, both thriving and gaining strength daily.
African Realm Additions:
- Bay Duiker Calf: Named Acacia, this tiny bay duiker calf was born on May 21, weighing less than three pounds. Both mother and calf are doing well. Bay duikers are small, forest-dwelling antelopes, reaching about 20 inches tall at the shoulder as adults.
- Marabou Stork: A female Marabou stork chick hatched on May 26, the first baby for parents Will and Diana. The parents are co-parenting, sharing responsibilities for nest protection and feeding.
- Impala Calves: The African baby boom continued with two male impala calves. The youngest, Brad, was born on June 7 to mother Linda and father Chad. Chad Jr. was born to mother Karen and father Chad on May 22. The Zoo is now home to six impalas.
These newest additions join other spring arrivals, including a masked lapwing and a lorikeet. With so many new discoveries around every corner, this summer truly is the “coolest time to visit” ZooTampa.
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