Zoo News Blog

Threatened Species Newsletter May 2025

In this edition, we celebrate the Detection Dog team’s success in training dogs to locate the elusive Victorian Grassland Earless Dragon. We also share exciting news from our amphibian experts, who have cracked the breeding code for two more Fighting Extinction frog species and reflect on the first-ever release of sanctuary-bred Guthega Skinks to the Bogong High Plains.

Published 26 June 2025

DID YOU KNOW: ELEPHANT EDITION

Here are some fun facts about the new Asian Elephant habitat at Werribee Open Range Zoo.

Published 18 June 2025

How to Create a Cat-Friendly Apartment

Living in a small apartment with your feline friend can be a delightful experience, but it does come with its own set of challenges. Here are some tips to ensure your cat stays happy, healthy, and safe, all while maximizing your limited space.

Published 6 June 2025

ZOO WHAT WHEN WHERE WHY

Each edition of Zoo News, we select one member question to be answered by our zoo keepers and experts. This edition we answered Aedan's question: 

"Could you please tell me what happened to the Coatis at Melbourne Zoo? They are my favourite animal! They used to be hidden away in a back corner, then they got their own big exhibit  and were so fun to watch. But then they disappeared! Are there any plans to get more?"

Published 21 May 2025

CARE FOR COUNTRY

If you’ve ever wanted to get a better understanding of what ‘Caring for Country’ means, come meet Aboriginal Elder Murrundindi at Healesville Sanctuary.

Published 23 April 2025

BUNDLE OF JOY

With a name meaning ‘bringer of joy and happiness’ in Zulu, Werribee Open Range Zoo’s youngest rhino, Jabulani, is certainly living up to his name. 

“He thinks the world is all set up for him,” says Rich, Werribee Open Range Zoo’s Savannah Coordinator. “He has plenty of confidence having mum right there acting as his bodyguard. He’s been doing zoomies, where he’ll do a big run‑around first thing in the morning.”

Published 10 April 2025

MEET THE HERD

Excited to see the Asian elephants at Werribee Open Range Zoo? As they settle into their new home, get to know the herd—their favorite foods, unique features, fun facts, and quirks. Each elephant has its own personality and distinctive traits. Can you spot who's who when you visit them in their new home?

Published 27 February 2025

RETHINKING WASTE

From repurposing old uniforms to recycling membership cards, no stone is left unturned when it comes to reducing waste at Zoos Victoria.

Published 15 January 2025

NIGHT AT THE ZOO

Have you ever wondered what happens at the Zoo after dark? You could experience the thrill of a sleepover at Melbourne Zoo or Werribee Open Range Zoo.

Published 15 January 2025

written in stars

What does a small, gentle brown moth you might see flying around your porch light have to do with the battle to protect and recover one of Australia’s cutest but most Critically Endangered native critters, the Mountain Pygmy-possum?

Published 13 October 2024

They're packing their trunks

If you’ve ever moved house, you’ll understand the enormity of the task at hand.

Multiply that by the size of a nine-strong elephant herd and factor in details such as organising cranes and transport trucks; calculating the time required to load, transport and unload the elephants; and coordinating all the...

Published 11 October 2024

FEATHERS, FUR AND SCALES

Have you ever wondered why ducks never look wet, or why Spotted-tail Quolls have spots? Discover how certain aesthetic features help these and other animals survive and thrive.

Published 11 October 2024