Zoo News Weekly

Wakadoo! Bluey is back at the zoo! 

After wowing crowds at Melbourne Zoo and Werribee Open Range Zoo, everyone’s favourite Heeler pup is heading to the bush for an all-new Live Interactive Experience at Healesville Sanctuary.

Best of all, it's FREE FOR MEMBERS!

Pack your sense of adventure and get set for a family-fun-filled long weekend. See Bluey and Bingo live on stage, explore the Sanctuary’s beautiful bushland, and meet incredible Aussie animals along the way.

When: Saturday 1 – Tuesday 4 November
Show times: 10:30am, 11:15am, 12:00pm & 12:45pm
Cost: Free with entry  
Duration: 20 minutes
Location: Koala Picnic Lawns, Healesville Sanctuary

Published 10 October 2025

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OUR THREE PENGUIN CHICKS AT MELBOURNE ZOO ARE GROWING UP FAST!

Two of our chicks have already ventured out of their burrows and can often be spotted splashing about in the pool alongside the adults. Next time you pass by, keep an eye out for their wing bands, brown-brown and green-black.

One of the chicks recently weighed in at an impressive 1.36 kg, even bigger than either of her parents! All three have also been confirmed as females. They’re about to shed their fluffy down and grow a sleek new coat of glossy black and blue feathers.

The third chick hatched a couple of weeks later, so she’s still finishing her moult and hasn’t emerged from the burrow just yet. You can catch a glimpse of her on our live-stream cameras in The Deep for a special behind-the-scenes look.

In the meantime, enjoy this adorable photo from the youngest chick’s five-week vet check!

Published 8 October 2025

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UP CLOSE WITH MELBOUNE ZOO'S SEALS

The new seal pool fence has quickly become a favourite feature for members and visitors alike. It offers incredible up-close views of our playful seals, whether they’re lounging on land or showing off their skills during training sessions. It’s a fantastic new way to connect with these amazing animals and see their unique behaviours. Be sure to check it out on your next visit to Melbourne Zoo!

Published 8 October 2025

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X-TRA CARE FOR EMU NEEDING X-RAYS

An elderly Emu named Blinky has undergone a novel X-ray procedure without anaesthetic at Healesville Sanctuary. Because sedating Emus is risky, keepers spent 18 months training 22-year-old Blinky to voluntarily take part in his health check. Using food rewards and neck scratches, Blinky calmly stood still long enough for vets to capture clear hip X-rays in his habitat. The team is now working to diagnose the cause of his limp, while keepers provide pain relief and monitor his health ahead of the breeding season.

Published 8 October 2025

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THE ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE AT MELBOURNE ZOO - NOW ON SALE!

Looking for a Zoo day you’ll remember forever? Get ready for a half-day full of unforgettable surprises and encounters at Melbourne Zoo with the Ultimate Experience!

Start your adventure with exclusive early-morning access to the Zoo, a magical time when the animals are just waking up. From there, your expert guide will take you behind-the-scenes for a series of surprise animal experiences.

Along the way, you’ll discover fascinating animal adaptations, conservation stories and fun facts that even our keeper talks don’t cover. We’ll then treat you to morning tea or an early lunch before you set off to enjoy the rest of the Zoo at your own pace.

To make it even more special, your guide will give you a call before your visit to confirm timings and ask a few little questions, helping us tailor the experience just for you. Each tour is unique, with our keepers letting the animals take the lead, ensuring their personalities shine and making every visit truly unforgettable.

Inclusions:

• 2-3 x Animal Experiences
• Early Morning and/or Behind-the-Scenes access
• Guided Precinct - Tours
• Scatter Feeds (Viewing + Assistance).
• Private Guide - 5hrs
• Morning Tea and/or early lunch + Coffee

Member Price: $314 per person (Private Group Booking) 

General Visitor Price: $349 per person (Private Group Booking)

Minimum Capacity: 2ppl

Maximum Capacity: 4ppl

UPDATE: As members, we're letting you know first that the Ultimate Experience tours ARE NOW ON SALE.  You can book and secure the dates you want before the public!

Published 1 October 2025

HISTORY OF MELBOURNE ZOO GARDENS - NOW ON SALE!

This Spring indulge your green thumb and join one of our horticulture experts in exploring the stunning array of flora around the Zoo.

Join one of our Horticulture, Tree, Garden or Nursery specialists for an intimate one hour - walking journey. Hear about the history of Melbourne Zoo's gardens, as well as our impressive sustainability practices and the ambassador plant species that reside here.

Our gardens and nurseries are ever changing, so tours can vary across Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter seasons.

Book onto one or all four options:

• Japanese Gardens
• Trees of Melbourne Zoo
• Nursery & Butterflies
• History of our Gardens

Member Price: $35 per person 

Published 1 October 2025

MEMBER EXCLUSIVE: SUSHI SUSHI BUNDLE DEAL

This October to December, treat yourself to our Sushi Sushi special, exclusively for members, at Melbourne Zoo or Werribee Open Range Zoo.

Sushi Sushi Member Bundle:

Only $29.00 (RRP $36.70) 

Includes:

• Any 4 hand sushi rolls
• 1 Serve of Edamame
• 2 x 375ml soft drinks

Just show your membership card and enjoy!

Published 30 September 2025

MELBOURNE ZOO PLAYGROUP RETURNS FOR TERM 4

Melbourne Zoo is excited to once again be running Zoo Playgroup in Term 4, an eight-week, nature-based program designed for our youngest members and their adult carers.

Delivered by Melbourne Zoo's Early Childhood specialists, children will have an opportunity to play, sing and hear stories and develop their connection with nature.

We think it’s a great program for our young members. But don’t just take our word for it, hear from one of our members:

"I was impressed by the variety of activities on offer for the kids and the level of detail applied to all activities. Ash was engaging and very knowledgeable. I have done a lot of different play groups in my time (in my life prior to kids I evaluated children play programs at hospitals across Australia) and this is one of the best and most creative programs I have come across."

Hurry, book now! There is limited space for the term 4 program.

Published 30 September 2025

ARID AVIARY AT HEALESVILLE SANCTUARY RE-OPENED

This week, we were excited to officially re-open the Arid Aviary at Healesville Sanctuary! The space has been completely transformed to reflect the stunning arid habitats that cover almost 70% of Australia. Featuring striking mock-rock, a new waterfall, and a flowing stream, the aviary now offers an immersive experience for both our members and the birds to enjoy.

Make sure you visit the aviary on the Woodlands Track during your next visit to Healesville Sanctuary. 

Published 25 September 2025

DANIEL'S DONUTS AT GIRAFFE LOOKOUT CAFE

Daniel’s has officially joined the Melbourne Zoo experience, bringing a selection of their most-loved donut favourites to the Giraffe Lookout Café.

Enjoy Daniel's signature fresh, fluffy donuts, as well as golden, flaky pies filled with quality ingredients – the perfect mix of sweet and savoury. Whether it’s a quick snack between visiting your favourite animal or a hearty meal to recharge, Daniel’s offers a delicious stop for all members. 

Published 25 September 2025

DIWALI FESTIVAL IS COMING TO WERRIBEE OPEN RANGE ZOO

A vibrant festival of lights, culture and community is set to illuminate Werribee Open Range Zoo on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 October. from 12pm - 7pm. Join us for a two-day celebration featuring traditional dance performances, live music, delicious food, and spectacular displays of light. Proudly presented by Solangture and Velodrome Events.

Best of all it's free for members and with a Zoo admissions ticket.

Published 25 September 2025

SANCTUARY AFTER HOURS IS BACK - MEMBER PREVIEWS ARE SOLD OUT

Unwind at the Sanctuary with an intimate after-hours Member Preview experience. As the sun sets and the grounds grow quiet, join our expert guides for a 90-minute tour through the bushland, away from the crowds. Discover the unique sights and sounds of wildlife at dusk, from animals settling in, to those just beginning their night.

Member-only adult previews are 55% off and take place before the public launch, with strictly limited spaces, so book early to secure your spot.

This exclusive opportunity lets members experience the tour first and share valuable feedback to help shape it for future visitors. The preview is for a limited time only on Thursday 9 October, Friday 10 October, Saturday 11 October.

Can't make the Member Previews? Regular Sanctuary After Hours dates go on sale from Monday 29 September for Thursday, Friday & Saturday evenings from 16 October – 13 December.

Published 19 September 2025

A special announcement from Melbourne Zoo!

Melbourne Zoo will be closed to Zoo Members and the general public on Saturday October 18, 2025 to host 'Dream Day'. In partnership with the Association for Children with Disability - ACD, Dream Day is an annual event where the zoo will be transformed to provide children with disability and their families the unique opportunity to experience the zoo in an environment that they might otherwise find difficult to navigate during peak times. This means that Melbourne Zoo will be closed to other visitors, including Zoos Victoria Members.

Only registered Dream Day ticket holders will be able to attend on this day. All tickets to this years event have been allocated to participating families..

While Melbourne Zoo will be closed for the day, Healesville Sanctuary, Werribee Open Range Zoo and Kyabram Fauna Park will all be open as usual. We'll post another reminder closer to the date, and we thank you for supporting this important initiative.

Published 19 September 2025

TAKE A WALK WITH OUR ELEPHANT EXPERTS

Ever wondered what it takes to build a world-leading Elephant habitat? Join our elephant experts on an exclusive small-group walking tour and discover the innovative design behind our brand-new Elephant space at Werribee Open Range Zoo, created with the welfare and well-being of the elephants at its heart.

Members pay only $44.10 per person

Published 18 September 2025 

vale magra

Healesville Sanctuary is saddened to share that Magra, our long-term Wedge-tailed Eagle, has passed away.

Magra arrived at the Sanctuary 28 years ago as a young bird that could not be released to the wild, and over the years she inspired countless visitors through her powerful presence. Earlier this year, keepers noticed changes in her behaviour and she was moved to our raptor rehabilitation facility for further assessment and treatment. When scans revealed significant changes to her organs and no signs of improvement, the kindest decision was made to euthanise her.

While the team continues to work closely with our other birds, including two Wedge-tailed Eagles preparing to take part in free-flight presentations, Magra will be deeply missed by all who cared for her and by the many people whose lives she touched.

Published 12 September 2025

COFFEE GROUNDS + ANIMAL POO = HEALTHY GARDENS

Check out this recent article from ABC News on how the coffee grounds from around 400 cafes across Melbourne are being brought right here to Melbourne Zoo, recycled with animal poo in Zoos Victoria's 'Hot Rot' machine and then spread amongst our gardens. Recycling at it's absolute best!

Published 12 September 2025 

father and son bonding time

A key element of Zoos Victoria’s elephant welfare philosophy is about giving all members of our herd opportunities that reflect their natural biology at their various life stages. For male calf, Roi-yim it is important for him to have social opportunities with other male elephants; to play with, spar, test strength, as well as observing and learning appropriate social and life skills. Eventually male calves move out of their natal herd and often spend time with other males. Werribee Open Range Zoos Elephant Keepers have begun to facilitate some more social opportunities for male calf Roi-yim, to spend time with his dad Luk Chai to help build his confidence and resilience which will help support him when he one day transitions out of his natal herd. Roi-yim is quick to follow his dad around and has been enjoying testing his sparring skills with him! Roi-yim has grown tremendously in his confidence around Luk Chai and is quick to gravitate towards him and spends a great deal of time interacting with him.

Visit Werribee Open Range Zoo to watch the entire herd and their unique interactions. You can also learn more about the herd and their social dynamics by catching one of four Keeper Talks held each day on the Waterhole Trail. Check out the link below for times.

Published 12 September 2025 

they're calling on you

Did you know we share 98% of our DNA with gorillas? These magnificent animals are under threat from habitat loss driven by mining for minerals like coltan used in everyday phones. Grauer’s Gorillas have declined by ~77% in three decades.

Since They’re Calling on You launched in 2008, Zoos Victoria’s community has collected over 194,000 mobile phones, and saved more than 135 tonnes of mineral resources and over 77 tonnes of carbon emissions! Visiting soon? Bring an old mobile to recycle and support gorilla conservation.

Published 05 September 2025 

moth tracker is back

Each spring, Bogong Moths migrate up to 1,000 km to the alpine mountains, where hungry Mountain Pygmy-possums wake from hibernation. But with moth numbers in steep decline, these tiny possums may struggle to find enough food.

You can help by becoming a citizen scientist! If you spot a Bogong Moth, snap a photo and upload it to Zoos Victoria's Moth Tracker. Your sightings will help scientists track their migration and give hope to both species.

Published 05 September 2025 

HOW WILL YOU GO WILD?

Helping save some of your favourite species is as easy as A – Z. Check out our full list of fundraising ideas for you and your family this Wild Week! From 1–7 September, we’re calling on passionate nature-lovers like you to take on a personal challenge – walk, run, swim or choose your own adventure – and raise vital funds to protect Victoria’s most threatened species.

Published 26 August 2025 

"Scrumptious little noodle" Melbourne Zoo’s giraffe calf has a name!

In just a few short weeks, Melbourne Zoo’s giraffe calf has gone from wobbly newcomer to star attraction — the first born at the Zoo in nearly 20 years. Visitors have watched him snuggle up to mum Nakuru, discover his legs with some spectacular zoomies, and grow bigger every day, stacking on 25 kilos in three weeks he now tips the scales at more than 100 kilograms. But every giraffe needs a name, so the vote was put to Zoos Victoria members. The three choices were: Tambi, meaning “noodle” in Swahili, Tamu meaning “sweet” and Enzi meaning “power” or “might”.

The winning name is Tambi [pronounced: Tum-bee] winning 48% of the votes.

Published 22 August 2025 

MEMBER EXCLUSIVE: GIRAFFE CALF TRIES WATER FOR THE FIRST TIME AT MELBOURNE ZOO

Please enjoy this update of Melbourne’s newest (and cutest)! Our 11-day-old giraffe calf has been busy nursing and stacking on weight. Here you can see him learn to sip from a water drinker, with mum Nakuru looking on.

For now, he likes to stick close to Nakuru and is curious about the rest of the herd, which includes Iris and the calf’s father, Klintun. We’re looking forward to learning more about this new addition to Melbourne Zoo!

Published 12 August 2025 

Get Creative at Our Zine Making Workshop!

Join us in the lead-up to the Healesville Zine and Comic Festival for an all-ages FREE Zine Making Workshop! What’s a Zine? A zine (short for magazine) is a handmade, DIY publication—often a small paper booklet—typically reproduced on a photocopier in small print runs for trading or selling. It's all about creativity, self-expression, and community. At this workshop, you’ll create your very own zine inspired by your visit to Healesville Sanctuary and our amazing Fighting Extinction species.

Workshop dates: 27 July, 30 August, 31 August, 28 September and 26 October.

Published 25 July 2025 

Lovable “Dumpling” Lupo Melts Hearts at Melbourne Zoo

Melbourne Zoo has welcomed Lupo, a two-and-a-half-year-old South American Tapir with a big personality and a love for crunchy veggies. After travelling from Zoo Schmiding in Austria, Lupo has been settling in with plenty of munching, galloping and exploring.

“Lupo is calm, confident and a lot of fun,” says Ungulates Coordinator Luke Hausler. “He loves carrots, corn and celery—but isn’t too keen on capsicum!”

Nicknamed Knödel (meaning “dumpling”) by his Austrian keepers, Lupo even arrived with a baby book documenting his early milestones. He’s already made friends with local possums and is the first tapir at Melbourne Zoo in two years.

With his wriggly snout and playful nature, Lupo is quickly becoming a keeper favourite, and a new star at the Zoo. Stay tuned for more Lupo love!

Published 18 July 2025 

GREAT NEWS FROM PAPUA NEW GUINEA

In collaboration with the herpetofauna staff at Melbourne Zoo, the team at Port Moresby Nature Park have achieved a world-first breeding of the endemic tiny Yule Island Tree Frog (Litoria congenita). This is a significant milestone in a multi-year initiative, which involves knowledge-sharing and upskilling Nature Park staff, as we work together towards safeguarding PNG frog populations from the threat of chytrid fungus and climate change.

Read more on pages 15-19 of the Amphibian Ark Newsletter below.

Published 8 July 2025 

Melbourne Zoo Welcomes NEW ‘Monsters’

Melbourne Zoo has hatched eight Gila monsters — the largest clutch ever recorded — in a world-first success. These venomous, desert-dwelling reptiles are usually shy and slow-moving, despite their fearsome reputation. Keeper Jayden says, despite scary myths surrounding the creatures, they are usually quite harmless, as long as you leave them alone. Fascinatingly, their saliva contains a compound that helped lead to the development of Ozempic, the weight-loss and diabetes drug making global headlines. 

Swing by the Reptile House on your next visit to Melbourne Zoo and meet our little Gila monsters!

Published 18 June 2025 

KATI MEETS LUK CHAI FOR THE FIRST TIME

WELCOME TO OUR LITTLE NYALA

PENGUINS VISIT TO THE VET

Werribee Open Range Zoo has a new heartthrob

new moon jellyfish have DRIFTED IN

We’re excited to welcome Moon Jellyfish to Wild Sea at Melbourne Zoo — a brand-new species for the space and a truly magical addition to your underwater journey. Their arrival is the result of months of behind-the-scenes work by our expert team, including the installation of specialised jellyfish displays (called Kreisels), the setup of delicate hatching systems, and the creation of facilities to ensure a thriving Moon Jelly population. With their ethereal glow and hypnotic movement, these graceful creatures are already enchanting visitors. Don’t miss them on your next visit.

Published 8 April 2025 

OTTERS ON THE MOVE

Keep an eye out for Felix the Pygmy Hippo’s new neighbours on your next stroll along Melbourne Zoo’s Gorilla Trail. Odie and Paula, our otter parents, have temporarily moved in while we navigate some family dynamics within their group. They’re settling in well, very active and loving their new digs.

Published 8 April 2025 

Cozy Rooms for Pollinators

If you’ve strolled along the Forest of Wonder trail recently, you may have spotted some new additions!

We’ve been busy bees, crafting our own bee hotels for our invertebrate garden—using repurposed materials from around the Zoo. The posts, made from red gum salvaged from the old Wild Sea pier, feature carefully drilled holes (4.5mm, 5.5mm, and 7mm) to welcome leaf cutter bees, resin bees, and hopefully masked bees. Positioned north-east to catch the morning sun, they’re already buzzing with activity!

Next time you visit, keep an eye out for these tiny pollinators moving in!

Published 2 April 2025 

Jabulani meets his dad

A heartwarming moment recently unfolded at Werribee Open Range Zoo as seven-month-old Southern White Rhino calf Jabulani met his towering dad, Kifaru, for the first time. Despite the size difference—Kifaru is five times his size—Jabulani stood his ground, curiously locking horns with his father while calmly chewing on some food. Protected by his mum Kipenzi and a strong female herd, Jabulani remained unfazed during the encounter, which keepers carefully planned to mirror natural wild herd dynamics. Southern White Rhinos are classified as Near Threatened, and the Zoo’s breeding program plays a vital role in their conservation. Visitors can spot Jabulani, Kifaru and the rest of the rhino crash on a safari bus tour, included with entry.

Published 27 March 2025 

DID YOU KNOW THERE ARE BIRDS LIVING IN THE BUTTERFLY HOUSE AT MELBOURNE ZOO?

Recently, we welcomed a Rose-crowned Fruit Dove fledgling, and it's growing fast! This little one is becoming more independent each day but is still being lovingly fed by its parents, Lily and Pily. It's already flying confidently and exploring every corner of the Butterfly House. At the end of the day, you'll often find it snuggled up next to mum for a cozy night's sleep. Make sure you look out for them on your next visit.

Published 27 March 2025 

LOVE IS IN THE AIR WITH OUR BLEEDING-HEART DOVES

Keen-eyed members may have spotted some new residents at Melbourne Zoo, our Bleeding-Heart Doves.

Bleeding-heart doves are a group of ground-dwelling pigeons native to the forests of the Philippines. Their name comes from the dramatic red or orange patch on their chest, which looks like a wound, giving the illusion that the bird is bleeding. Despite their appearance, these doves are completely unharmed—the "bloodstain" is actually just a patch of vividly coloured feathers.

Why Do They Have Red Feathers?

The exact reason for this unique feature is not fully understood, but there are a few strong theories:

THE BIG MOVE IS UNDERWAY!

We’re excited to share that Luk Chai, our energetic, inquisitive, and confident male elephant, was the first to make the big move today! The journey went smoothly, thanks to a massive team effort involving veterinarians, transport experts, and even Victoria Police. The rest of the herd will be joining him in the coming weeks.

Published 06 February 2025 

NAME REVEAL FOR OUR NEW JOEY

Thank you for helping us choose a name for Healesville Sanctuary's adorable new Goodfellow’s Tree Kangaroo joey!

Our keepers selected three names inspired by Papua New Guinea, the native home of this unique species. Members voted for their favourite, choosing between:

• Murua – a district (pronounced moo-roo-wa)
• Mungili – meaning precious or beautiful (moon-gi-lee)
• Mongo – seeds from trees (mon-go)

The votes are in, and the winning name is... Mungili!

Little Mungili is becoming more active every day, so don’t miss the chance to spot them on your next visit to Healesville Sanctuary.

Published 30 January 2025