Zoo News Weekly

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 

zoovie night returns

Get set for a magical night under the stars. Join us for a members-only Zoovie Night at Melbourne Zoo!

Explore after hours, meet keepers, enjoy the Dragons & Vikings adventure, then settle in on the lawns for the new live-action How to Train Your Dragon (2025).

Event details
Dates: Friday 3 October and Saturday 4 October 2025
Gates open: 5:30 pm
Movie starts: approx. 7:30 pm
Who: Members only (you can bring non-member guests)
Want a little extra? The Golden Dragon Lounge offers premium front-row beanbag seating, plus popcorn, a drink, and a dragon plush toy

Published 08 September 2025 

go platypus spotting with an expert on coranderrk creek

This Platypus Month, uncover the secrets of one of Australia’s most mysterious creatures at an exclusive members-only evening workshop. Join Dr Jess Thomas for an engaging presentation on A Year in the Life of a Platypus, then step into the World of the Platypus to meet our resident animals. Dr Jess will also share expert tips for spotting platypus in the wild, skills you can put to the test along beautiful Coranderrk Creek. And if luck is on your side, you might even glimpse one in its natural habitat!

Published 08 September 2025 

kyabram fauna park will be closed monday 8 and tuesday 9 september

Kyabram Fauna Park will be temporarily closed on Monday 8 and Tuesday 9 September as we undertake a series of exciting upgrades and essential maintenance works to improve the park experience for everyone.

We’re currently have several projects underway to enhance both the safety and enjoyment of our beloved community space. These works include sealing pathways to ensure smoother, safer and more inclusive access for all members and visitors as well as the construction of a brand-new splash park, which will bring even more fun and vibrancy to the area, especially for families and children.

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 

Member exclusive: breakfast with the giraffe calf experience

How would you like to start your day having breakfast with Melbourne Zoo’s newest arrival, Tambi? As a Zoos Victoria Member, you have the exclusive opportunity to book this brand-new experience at Melbourne Zoo. Before the zoo opens, enjoy a light buffet breakfast, designed to 'eat on your feet' so you can take full advantage of overlooking the giraffe habitat as you see our adorable baby giraffe and the herd start their day. Hear from our passionate keepers about the giraffe family, all the latest insider info on the giraffe birth and have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A with the keepers.

Available for a limited time only, book now so you don't miss out.

Published 02 September 2025

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON IS COMING TO MELBOURNE ZOO

From 20 September to 5 October, Melbourne Zoo will transform into a mythical Viking realm for the How to Train Your Dragon: Viking Adventure — an unforgettable quest for dragon riders of all ages! Step into the world of Berk, follow the clues on an epic Scavenger Hunt, and meet Hiccup and your favourite heroes along the way. Test your courage at the Viking Training Ground and come face-to-face with a spectacular life-sized Toothless. 

Best of all, it’s free for members!

PLUS, members who complete the Scavenger Hunt can go into the draw to win a How to Train Your Dragon prize pack valued at $180, thanks to Universal!

Published 02 September 2025 

celebrate threatened species month at healesville sanctuary

This September, join us to meet our dedicated Threatened Species Keepers, discover our 27 Fighting Extinction priority species, and leave inspired with a deeper appreciation for Australia’s precious wildlife and how you can help protect it. Throughout September, enjoy extra talks, behind-the-scenes insights, and special activities that showcase the vital conservation work happening at Zoos Victoria.

Heads up, our Members-exclusive Platypus Spotting Workshop goes on sale next week. Spots are limited! Find out more about the workshop by clicking below.

Published 02 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 

Celebrate Threatened Species Month at Healesville Sanctuary!

This September, join us to meet our dedicated Threatened Species Keepers, discover our 27 Fighting Extinction priority species, and leave inspired with a deeper appreciation for Australia’s precious wildlife and how you can help protect it.

National Threatened Species Day on 7 September marks the sad anniversary of the last Tasmanian Tiger (Thylacine) passing in 1936. To honour this important date, we’re dedicating the entire month to Threatened Species awareness. Throughout September, enjoy extra talks, behind-the-scenes insights, and special activities that showcase the vital conservation work happening at Zoos Victoria. Together, we can create a future rich in wildlife.

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 

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS PROGRAM: VOICE FOR WILDLIFE

Over four action-packed days, this program for young people aged 14–18 dives into animal welfare, community campaigns, and behaviour change — all through the lens of Zoos Victoria’s Safe Cat, Safe Wildlife campaign. With behind-the-scenes access, expert mentoring, and visits to the RSPCA and Parliament, it’s a unique opportunity to create real change and be part of something bigger.

Published 21 August 2025 

BAILLIEU MYER ORATION

Join us at Melbourne Zoo for a free and inspiring evening marking National Threatened Species Day, as we celebrate the enduring legacy of the late Baillieu Myer AC. Established with a gift from the Sidney Myer Fund in 2023, the Baillieu Myer Internships equip young scientists with the skills and experience to protect Victoria’s most threatened species. Hear from our three 2025 Interns as they share behind-the-scenes stories of innovation, passion and hope.

Published 20 August 2025 

CELEBRATE FATHER'S DAY AT THE ZOO

Kick off the day at Melbourne Zoo or Werribee Open Range Zoo with a footy-themed BBQ brunch sponsored by Fancy Hanks, face painting, fun activities, and a special gift for Dad.

Or make your way to Healesville Sanctuary for live tunes from father–daughter duo Caitie + Ko, a hearty BBQ buffet and lawn games – plus a complimentary beer* for Dad on arrival.

*T&Cs apply

Published 20 August 2025 

WHERE IS MELBOURNE ZOO'S GIRAFFE CALF?

We've been blessed with great weather in Melbourne lately, but this weekend is predicted to have less sunshine and a spot of rain. But don't let that deter you from visiting your favourite zoos, in fact, it's the best time to visit! 

That said, our newest addition to Melbourne Zoo, the yet to be named son to Nakuru, born just last week, is not used to Melbourne weather, or any weather beside sunshine, so you may not see him on rainy or windy days. He will spend time in his barn while he navigates getting used to different conditions.

As a zoo member, you can visit as many times as you like, so why not take advantage of the quieter days at the zoo, and then come back again to meet the new calf when he's a little sturdier on his feet. In the meantime, check out the article below to vote for his name!

Published 15 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