Rear view of six Asian Elephants, three adults and three calves in a row.

ZooTube

Zoo Members, welcome to ZooTube! Here, you’ll find videos and podcasts sharing incredible stories about our animals, behind-the-scenes glimpses into our zoos, educational content for all ages, and updates on how we’re working to protect endangered species.

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ADORABLE JOEY REVEAL!

Meet 7-month-old Bree, full of life and bouncing energy! On your next visit to Healesville Sanctuary, see if you can spot a joey nestled in their mother’s pouch or hopping playfully around the enclosure.

Published 23 June 2025

Baw Baw Frogs return to a lush mountain gully

In a mammoth effort, close to 3,000 tiny young Baw Baw Frogs have been released to the Baw Baw Plateau from a conservation breeding program at Melbourne Zoo. This trial release site, where the Critically Endangered frog was historically absent, is proving to be a vital success with males released a few years back returning to the site.

Published 23 June 2025

Speaker Series Event: Help us protect nature's tiny and mighty

Australia’s invertebrate biodiversity is at a tipping point, with species disappearing at an alarming rate. But with your help, there is hope. Meet our experts in this exciting on-demand webinar who will share insights into Melbourne Zoo’s new era of invertebrate conservation. Learn about the vital role invertebrates play in our ecosystems, and the urgent, groundbreaking work being done to protect these tiny but mighty creatures. Donate to help us protect nature’s tiny and mighty today: zoo.org.au/donate-today.

Published 23 June 2025

Leadbeater's possum magical new home!

More than a decade in the making a mixed pair of Leadbeater’s Possums are settling into a new habitat next to Healesville Sanctuary igniting hope for this Victorian Faunal Emblem which is a critically endangered species. For the first time, Lowland male Mercury and Highland female Narvi [pron: Nar-vee] have been released into the Coranderrk Bushland Nature Conservation Reserve (adjoining the Sanctuary) to establish a new colony.

Published 18 June 2025

Watching animals = Important science!

For Amy-Rose and her team, observing how and where animals spend their time is just one of many ways Animal Welfare Research Officers work with animal care staff to create thriving lives for our animals. Thanks to Petstock Amy-Rose has been able to continue to work with the Elephant Trail team and their big move from Melbourne Zoo to Werribee Open Range Zoo.

Published 18 June 2025

MEMBER EXCLUSIVE: Free-flight training a Barking Owl

Keeper Shaun takes us behind the scenes of how they train a new bird for their free-flight Spirits of the Sky presentation. Keepers use visual cues to give the birds information so they understand what they are being asked to do, and use food as positive reinforcement so they can learn when they get it right.

Published 6 June 2025

Triple root canal for Sumatran Tiger Hutan!

It takes a brave dentist—and an even braver tiger—to tackle three root canals in one sitting. Just ask Hutan, Melbourne Zoo’s 15-year-old, 110kg Sumatran Tiger, who needed two hours under anaesthetic to sort out three damaged teeth that he earned the hard way—by chomping down on bones.

Published 6 June 2025

It's a frog-breeding bonanza!

It's a small step for science, but a giant leap for frog-kind 🐸 Melbourne Zoo's Amphibian Specialist Keepers have successfully bred two of Victoria's most cryptic frog species for the first time - the Watson's Tree Frog and the Southern Giant Burrowing Frog. The Amphibian Bushfire Recovery Centre at Melbourne Zoo is funded by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water Wildlife and Habitat Bushfire Recovery Program. The Watson’s Tree Frog recovery program is supported by the DEECA Greater Melbourne Nature Fund.

Published 30 May 2025

Elephant pumpkin mayhem!

The elephants received a donation of large pumpkins from a family through connection with the MZ Foodstore. The daughter, Ebony, grew these pumpkins and it was her dream to give them to a zoo animal. The elephants were quick to smash them, and they were all consumed quickly!

Published 30 May 2025

Nothing but crunchin' Tree-Kangaroo goodness!

Our favourite Goodfellow’s Tree Kangaroo joey Mungili is taking part in the International Crunch-a-thon to help raise awareness of the endangered species. If you search the hashtag #treeroocrunchathon2025, you can see all the Tree-kangaroos across the world crunching for conservation. Need an ASMR fix? Then listen to this… SOUND ON!

Published 21 May 2025

Let's hear it for the little guys!

In a historic first, Guthega Skinks bred at Healesville Sanctuary have been released in Victoria’s Bogong High Plains, giving fresh hope to the Endangered alpine species. The pioneer pairs – the first of their kind to have mixed genetics from Kosciusko National Park in New South Wales and the Victorian alps - are expected to produce a new generation of lizards with greater resilience to climate change. The Guthega Skink Recovery Program is a joint effort between Zoos Victoria and Snowline Ecology.

Published 21 May 2025

Daisy the dog is searching for Dragons!

Zoos Victoria’s Wildlife Detection Dog Squad has achieved a first for Australian conservation by training dogs to find the Critically Endangered Victorian Grassland Earless Dragon in the wild.

In a newly published study, the team reveals a game-changing method that could transform how we protect some of Australia’s most elusive reptiles.

Published 5 May 2025

Helmeted Honeyeaters released to Bunurong Country

For the first time in almost half a century, Critically Endangered Helmeted Honeyeaters have returned to Cardinia in southeast Victoria, where they were once found until the Ash Wednesday bushfires in 1983.

On an autumnal May morning, 21 iconic yellow and black birds bred at Healesville Sanctuary fluttered off into their new forest home on Bunurong Country, establishing a crucial third wild population in the fight against their extinction. Since 2018 the Victorian Government has invested over $8 million in the Faunal Emblems Program, to support the recovery of the Helmeted Honeyeater and Leadbeater’s Possums– improving the long-term conservation and health of both species. It has taken multiple partners, the Recovery Team and four decades to reach this historic milestone.

Zoos Victoria is grateful for the generous financial support provided by philanthropic donors.

Published 9 May 2025

The sweet sound of the Baw Baw Frog!

Have you noticed a distinctive croak at the end of our videos? Threatened Species Biologist Deon lets us know why it's such a special sound.

Published 7 May 2025

IT'S WORLD KOALA DAY

Enjoy this throw back of Keeper Craig talking about all the amazing traits that make koalas so unique and adorable! Meet a couple of Healesville's resident koalas, Noojee and Emily.

Published 3 May 2025

Changing Australia: Zoos Victoria CEO on fighting animal extinction and ethics

Catch Zoos Victoria CEO Dr Jenny Gray’s recent appearance on Radio National Breakfast.

Listen here

Published 24 April 2025

Trail Of The Elephants - A New Home For The Herd: Episode 3

Have you been following our mini-series Trail of the Elephants – A New Home for the Herd? We’re excited to share that the third and final episode is now live exclusively for members!

After years of careful planning, the big moment finally arrived. The herd of nine elephants made their historic move to Werribee Open Range Zoo. With Melbourne Zoo ready to say goodbye and the new habitat at Werribee prepared to welcome them, it was time. Go behind the scenes with our keepers as they share the incredible journey and witness touching moments of the elephants settling into their new home.

Published 14 April 2025

Trail Of The Elephants - A New Home For The Herd: Episode 2

The second episode of our exclusive elephant move mini-series is now live for members! This episode follows the dedicated elephant team as they take critical steps toward one of the most significant animal relocations in Zoos Victoria’s history. Watch as the dream of moving all nine elephants to their expansive new home at Werribee begins to take shape.

Published 10 April 2025

MEET MUNGILI, OUR ADORABLE MEMBER-NAMED TREE-KANGAROO JOEY

Mungili is now out and about at Healesville Sanctuary, and cuter than ever!

Join Keeper Katherine, who has over a decade of experience caring for this endangered species, for a morning with Tree-Kangaroos Mani and Mungili.

Published 1 April 2025

Trail Of The Elephants - A New Home For The Herd: Episode 1

Trail Of The Elephants - A New Home For The Herd takes an in-depth look into the past and future of the Asian Elephant herd at Zoos Victoria - from the heralded arrival of bull, Luk Chai, the birth of the three calves, the passing of our beloved Man Jai, and the giant step of transporting the family to Werribee Open Range Zoo.

Published 27 March 2025

Keepers update - How are the Elephants settling in at Werribee Open Range Zoo?

The Asian Elephant herd has been settling into their new home at Werribee Open Range Zoo, and we’ve got a member exclusive update from their keepers! Watch this heartwarming video to hear how these gentle giants are thriving in their new habitat and bonding as a family.

Published 13 March 2025

Take a walk on the wild side - through a Snow Leopards habitat!

Ever wondered what's involved in taking care of Melbourne Zoo’s Snow Leopards? Join Keeper Clare for a special behind-the-scenes look below! Want to learn more? We’re excited to share with our members that the WILDLY popular Snow Leopard Experience is back! Get up close with these majestic cats and learn from expert keepers about their personalities, behaviors, and training. Tickets on sale 7 March—mark your calendar, spots are limited!

Published 27 February 2025

The Healing touch: Soft tissue therapy helps an elderly Camel

23-year-old Saffron, an elderly Arabian Camel at Werribee Open Range Zoo, is proving that age is no barrier to feeling good! She’s voluntarily engaging in remedial massages to help with her arthritis—stretching out her nearly two-meter-tall, 750kg frame while enjoying some tasty treats. Thanks to this soft tissue therapy, you can see Saffron on Safari feeling her best!

Published 27 February 2025

SANCTUARY AFTER HOURS AT HEALESVILLE SANCTUARY

Looking for a serene escape into nature? Join us for an intimate, after-hours tour at Healesville Sanctuary. With no crowds, you’ll enjoy a private 90-minute guided experience, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the bush as day turns to night. Catch a glimpse of what to expect!

Book your tickets

Published 20 February 2025

First Look: Werribee Open Range Zoo welcomes nine majestic Asian Elephants!

Tears and hugs were plentiful when the 21-strong Elephant Keeping team witnessed the herd of nine Asian Elephants explore their new 21-hectare home. It took three separate trips to move all nine Elephants, making the family reunion at their new home all the sweeter. Through meticulous and dedicated training, one of the world's largest land animals walked into specially designed air-conditioned crates and were craned onto the back of flatbed trucks, ready to head west to Werribee Open Range Zoo. First thing on the agenda for calves Roi-Yim, Kati and Aiyara - a glorious mud wallow!

Zoos Victoria acknowledges Paula Fox AO, Lindsay Fox AC and family for their generous donation of the crates essential to transporting the herd to Werribee Open Range Zoo. Their support has made this move possible while ensuring a positive experience for the elephants, allowing mother and calf to maintain trunk and visual contact throughout their journey. We also extend thanks to those who generously contributed to the 2023 End of Financial Year Campaign and the 2024 End of Year Campaign, helping the herd "pack" and "unpack" their trunks as they settle into their new home at Werribee Open Range Zoo.

Published 13 February 2025

First Look: New Elephant Habitat at Werribee Open Range Zoo!

Join Mark Pilgrim, Director of Werribee Open Range Zoo, for a behind-the-scenes look at this incredible new space! Their new habitat—featuring lush vegetation, mud wallows, and interconnected waterholes—provides the perfect space for the herd to thrive. Plus, visitors will enjoy unique viewing opportunities, bringing you closer to these gentle giants than ever before.

Published 6 February 2025

Luk Chai is on the move!

The day is finally here! The first of our nine Asian elephants has safely arrived at his new home at Werribee Open Range Zoo. This morning, the four tonne male Luk Chai voluntarily entered a custom-built crate before being craned onto a flat-bed truck. That's right - for a brief moment, he was airborne! Keepers monitored Luk Chai remotely via cameras as the truck and Victoria Police escort vehicles made their way to the newly built 21-hectare habitat. Luk Chai is currently curiously exploring his brand-new bull barn. Stay tuned for updates as the hard-working team plans to move the remaining eight Asian elephants.

Published 6 February 2025

It's a BABY Bonanza!

From tiny meerkat pups to energetic rhino calves, Zoos Victoria welcomed an adorable baby boom in 2024! These delightful new arrivals have brought plenty of joy and excitement to our zoos. Take a closer look at just a few of these little additions, who are sure to melt your heart.

Published 22 January 2025

MEMBERS EXCLUSIVE: SPIRITS OF THE SKY TRAINING SESSION

We're excited to offer an exclusive, members-only Spirits of the Sky training session at Healesville Sanctuary these school holidays!

Join us in the flight arena where our keepers will give you a behind-the-scenes look at a private training session. Gain unique insights into the care and relationships built up over the years between the native birds and dedicated keepers. Each session is unique, shaped by what the birds choose to do in the moment—making every visit truly one-of-a-kind. Please present your membership card to gain entry at the arena.

11am – 11.15am

9, 16, 23 & 30 JANUARY 2025

For now, enjoy this sneak peek training session with Fergie the Long-billed Corella, Keeper Jessica, and Animal Training Coordinator Katrina.

Published 27 December 2024

It's a Hippo Bonanza!

Let's catch up on some of our favourite Hippo stories from Zoos Victoria.

Published 13 January 2025

COLLINS STREET FALCON SOARS AFTER EPIC RESCUE AND REHAB JOURNEY

We're soaring into the new year with this good news story! 🦅 One of Melbourne's iconic Collins Street Falcons is recovering well after injuring a wing in its urban adventures. The beautiful Bird of Prey received medical treatment at Melbourne Zoo, then spent some time at Healesville Sanctuary's Raptor Rehabilitation Centre to rebuild flight fitness before returning to the city skies.

Published 22 December 2024

let's celebrate 2024

As the year comes to an end, it’s time to reflect on everything we’ve accomplished together at Zoos Victoria. Watch our 2024 wrap-up video celebrating the incredible efforts of our staff, vets, conservationists and all those who help to Fight Extinction and ensure a future rich in wildlife. We also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our members, whose vital support makes these achievements possible.

Published 24 December 2024

A PLATYPUS MIRACLE AT CHRISTMAS CREEK!

After 10 months of expert care at Healesville Sanctuary, a young platypus has been released back into the wild. Rescued by cyclists after being found alone and underweight on a hot February day, he now thrives in his new home at Christmas Creek, chosen for its rich habitat and flowing waterways.

Published 04 December 2024

DETECTION DOG PODCAST

Ever wondered how experts find and protect elusive Platypuses in the wild? Wildlife Detection Dog Officer Naomi Hodgens and Platypus Specialist Dr. Jessica Thomas from Healesville Sanctuary recently joined the K9 Conservationists podcast to share fascinating insights into their work tracking Platypuses in Coranderrk Creek.

Tune in to learn more about these incredible conservation efforts.

Published 12 November 2024

three new meerkat pups join the mob

Melbourne Zoo has welcomed three new adorable Meerkat pups to mum Toto and dad Malu. This is the third litter of pups to these doting parents and their older siblings help out a lot with pup care duties.

Watch the latest video of the Meerkats at Melbourne Zoo on the Zoos Victoria YouTube channel or visit Melbourne Zoo to see them yourself, they grow up fast so don't delay.

Published 04 November 2024

TEENY TINY BUT MIGHTY

Zoos Victoria has teamed up with ARIA award winning children’s music group, Teeny Tiny Stevie's to produce a song in honour of the Victoria Grassland Earless Dragon, A Tiny Dragon.

Watch the music video and next time you visit Melbourne Zoo, bring your dancing shoes and have a dance in the Dragon Disco (next to Reptile House). Don't forget to visit Keeper Kids to see the dragon and learn more about the work underway to save the species.

Published 23 October 2024

Your Tote Collectible bag is now on sale

This year we need your help to support a recently rediscovered local legend and one of the most threatened species in the world, the Victorian Grassland Earless Dragon.

The sale of every Totes for Wildlife bag directly supports the conservation of the Victorian Grassland Earless Dragon, helping us discover more about wild dragons and how they use the environment.

Published 11 October 2024

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