Looking Back On 2021
With 2021 coming to a close, we thank you for your incredible support this year! Simply put, we couldn’t be successful without you. From all of your friends at the Zoo, we wish you all the best 2022 has to offer. Now it’s time to take a look back at the good, and bittersweet, things this year brought…
January
Introducing New Zoo Experiences
In January, we introduced new Zoo experiences including Goat Trek, Penguin Fish Toss, and Penguin Training! Later in spring, we added Tortoise Feeding and Giraffe Training, and then in fall, Rhino Training and Otter Training. We want our guests to have up-close and meaningful encounters with their favorite animals.
February
Baby Chimp Maisie Introduced to the Troop
In February, baby chimp Maisie was introduced to our chimpanzee troop for the first time after being hand-reared by our Animal Care Team. This past August, she turned one year old and we threw a birthday enrichment celebration.
March
Saying Goodbye to Giraffe Anuli
In March, we suffered the loss of female giraffe Anuli. Anuli was an integral part of the giraffe herd, and has been a favorite of staff and visitors alike since she arrived here in 2013.
April
Rhinos on Exhibit
In April, two new Southern white rhinos explored their African Watering Hole habitat for the first time. Following their debut, we held a naming contest and the boys were named J.P. and Jelani.
May
Slender Snouted Crocodile, Baron
Following the renovation of the Chimpanzee Forest crocodile habitat, May saw the introduction of critically endangered slender-snouted crocodile Baron, following the departure of previous crocs Captain Crook and Tick-Tock.
June
Cicadas Brood X
Yummy cicada! In June, a number of the animals enjoyed a fresh, ultra-local, hyper-seasonal snack when the Brood X cicadas arrived.
July
Otter Renovation Complete
The river otter habitat went under construction starting in February. The renovation included new pathways, viewing windows, and a replacement of the underwater tunnel. In July, we welcomed back otters Piper and Hudson to their exhibit.
August
Cotswold Lambs
In August, we welcomed two Cotswold lambs to the Zoo! Born in April, sisters Daphne & Delilah made their new home in the Farmyard.
Learn more about cotswold sheep
September
Reopened Historic Main Valley
Welcome back to Main Valley. In September, we opened the gates to a portion of the Zoo that hasn’t been seen by the public in more than 16 years.
October
PGF IPA Release
To help raise awareness of Panamanian Golden Frogs, we released a new beer in October, PGF IPA, with The Brewer’s Art. PGF IPA is now available for purchase in the Baltimore Metro area.
November
New Electric Zoo Shuttles
In November, we replaced our diesel-powered shuttles with three electric vehicles to transport visitors from the main entrance to Zoo Central and back!
December
Tawny Frogmouth Ambassador Sherman
It’s a bird…It’s a tree…It’s tawny frogmouth, Sherman! This 6-month-old master of camouflage arrived in December as the newest addition to our Animal Embassy collection. Ambassadors like Sherman, and fellow frogmouth Huey, are introduced to audiences in education programs both on and off grounds.
Learn more about tawny frogmouths
We are so very appreciative that you have made the Zoo such a special part of your lives—Here’s to a wonderfully wild 2022!
Any time is a good time to make a tax-deductible to the Zoo. Give now to support your favorite animals as we work to care for and conserve them.
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