Indianapolis has its own big winner to celebrate today with the arrival of a white rhinoceros calf born at 9:13 a.m. to 19-year-old mother Zenzele. This is the first live-birth rhinoceros calf for the Indianapolis Zoo and Zenzele’s seventh calf. Rhinoceros care staff began overnight watches early this month when Zenzele started producing milk and showed physical signs of impending labor. “Zenzele is an experienced and confident mom and everything is going very well,” said senior rhinoceros keeper Amber Berndt. Both Zenzele and her calf are doing well, and keepers say Zenzele is relaxed and the ..read more

January, 9, 2023   The Indianapolis Zoo anticipates the arrival of its first-ever rhinoceros calf in February. The mother is 19-year-old white rhinoceros Zenzele. Rhinoceros pregnancies last around 16 months. This will be Zenzele’s seventh calf. Zenzele came to the Indianapolis Zoo in early June from The Wilds in Cumberland, Ohio through a recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan. This cooperative program guides AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums to manage threatened and endangered species to ensure sustainable and genetically diverse populations. Th ..read more

published Dec. 11, 2023   It’s that time of the year! The twinkling glow of Christmas lights shining, the smell of fresh hot chocolate, penguins spreading their holiday cheer under the Bicentennial Pavilion and jolly old Santa Claus sitting in his study greeting children – Christmas at the Zoo is finally here! From November 18-December 30, venture to the Indianapolis Zoo for a night of holiday cheer complete with activities, special characters, and food – lots of food! From main entrees to sweets to beverages, we have plenty of options that will put you and your family into the holiday sp ..read more

published Oct. 5, 2023 Black cats are the most recognized domestic cat. Some know them for their solid black coat and bright yellow eyes whereas others know them for their connection to the Halloween season. But how did black cats get their connection to the popular holiday? It all began with the Puritan Piligrams, they distrusted anything affiliated with witches and sorcery, this included the black cat. Throughout history, many grew to believe that black cats were considered a symbol of “bad luck” if they crossed your path or that they were a witch in disguise. Decorators would use black cats ..read more

published Oct. 5, 2023   The spookiest time of the year is upon us and ZooBoo is finally here! On select dates from September 27th-October 31st, venture to the Indianapolis Zoo for a night of frightful activities, special characters, spooktacular entertainment and food that’s so good, it’s scary! From ‘Skelly Wings’ to ‘Boo-reos’, there’s plenty of things to sink your teeth into this year! Here is a list of eats and treats you must try at this year’s ZooBoo… if you dare!   Terrifying TOTS! Fried tater tots, burnt ends, BBQ sauce, beer cheese and sriracha aioli. (GF) (New) Hocus ..read more

Boo to you! ZooBoo at the Indianapolis Zoo presented by Central Indiana Honda Dealers is back for another spooktacular year on select dates from September 27th to October 31st. ZooBoo offers fun Halloween-themed activities, spooky characters, a unique seasonal menu, trick-or-treating, and of course, animals!” Don’t worry, there are no reservations required to attend ZooBoo, as it is included in your regular Zoo admission ticket. This event is the perfect opportunity to get into the spirit of Halloween with the whole family. Here are some of our tips & tricks to make the most out of your vi ..read more

This Labor Day was history-making for the Indianapolis Zoo with first-time elephant mother Zahara bringing a male calf into the world. The newest member of the Zoo’s African elephant herd arrived Monday evening shortly after 5:30pm. The birth made history as the first elephant in the world (African or Asian) to be born through artificial insemination to a mother who was also born through the same procedure. Elephant care staff began staying overnight on Friday when routine blood tests alerted them to the impending birth. Assistant Curator of Elephants Niki Kowalski reported that the calf arriv ..read more

If you are looking for year-round family fun at the Indianapolis Zoo, then a membership is the way to go! While zoo memberships are a great way to snag some pretty great perks, but it is also a great value. Memberships pay for themselves in as little as two visits! Zoo members are also eligible for tons of perks and even a few discounts. Believe us, some of these perks are SUPER tempting. This post is going to highlight the top reasons to become an Indianapolis Zoo Member. From perks and discounts to members-only events, this post has it covered. Free Admission & ParkingEnjoy 12 months of ..read more

There’s a new rhino roaming around the Indianapolis Zoo’s Plains yard! Meet the majestic and beautiful Zenzele, also known as “Zen” to her keepers. Nineteen-year-old Zen arrived in Indianapolis in early June from The Wilds in Cumberland, Ohio. While the surroundings were new, it didn’t take long for Zen to become adjusted and familiar with her new keepers. Senior Plains Keeper Amber Berndt says she has been doing very well with the team who works with her and enjoys getting pets and scratches. Amber describes Zen’s personality as laid back, but very outgoing and curious. Zenzele came to Indian ..read more

Published August 25, 2023 Got a future zoo veterinarian in your family? Or want to know what we do at the Zoo if an animal is sick or injured? Well, now you can! The Indianapolis Zoo is excited to announce that guests can experience a NEW behind-the-scenes guided tour of the Polly Horton Hix Animal Medical Center. “I hope guests see firsthand the excellent veterinary hospital we have and how it helps our veterinary staff provide health care for zoo animals,” said Dr. Jeff Proudfoot, Vice President of Veterinary Services of the Indianapolis Zoo. “With the help of Education and Marketing staff ..read more