Woodland Park Zoo Blog

Posted by Lauren Carroll-Bolger, Communications Humboldt penguin chick, Yolanda! Photo: Celine Pardo/Woodland Park Zoo One of Woodland Park Zoo’s Humboldt penguin chicks was named by kids at Seattle Children’s, and we are delighted to share the name they have chosen for this penguin is YOLANDA! Our Animal Care Team provided four names for the children to vote on, and Yolanda, meaning violet, was the clear winner. Help us give a warm welcome to Yolanda! Hello, Yolanda! Photo: Celine Pardo/Woodland Park Zoo Woodland Park Zoo partners with Seattle Children’s to provide uplifting virtual animal experiences for the hospital’s long-term patients. Monthly virtual experiences range from rhino feedings to veterinary exams for the animals, and the kids get to spend time asking questions and getting to know the animals and staff. In previous months, animal keeper Celine Pardo introduced the kids to our Humboldt penguins which led to an opportunity for the children to name our newest chick. “I can...

Posted by Lauren Carroll-Bolger, Communications Photos by Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren/Woodland Park Zoo March 3 is United Nations (UN) World Wildlife Day focused on “Recovering Key Species for Ecosystem Restoration.” The zoo joins the UN in highlighting the status of critically endangered species, like Kitoko and the western lowland gorilla, and promoting sustainable use of habitats to ensure the planet’s ecosystem can thrive. We are also celebrating the 2nd birthday of western lowland gorilla, Kitoko.  Since March 4, 2020, bright-eyed and curious Kitoko has melted hearts and grown from a small baby in the arms of his mother Uzumma to a 30-pound, adventurous climber leaping off the ledges of anything he can climb. He has become the class clown of the gorilla bunch and revels in rambunctious play sessions with his 1-year-old half-sister, Zuna, and 6-year-old family member, Yola. “Kitoko doesn’t mind being out of Uzumma’s sight if that means he can play with Zuna and Yola,” said Martin R...