Zoo Life - Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Zoo Update with GLAZA Interim President Dawn Petersen-Amend

We’ve got a Zoo for every mood: Come for L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow, or plan for Lunar New Year; or, if you’re like many visitors and members, you’ll appreciate a brisk morning walk around the uncrowded paths and the surprise sights and sounds of animals awakening to a new day. Whether you prefer a stimulating celebration or a quiet stroll to enjoy the animals, the crisp air, and the beautiful flora, we sincerely hope you will visit your Zoo again very soon!

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The Obscure Obscurus

Do you ever lie awake at night pondering the fate of Crotalus willardi obscurus? If so, you have something in common with Byron Wusstig, acting curator of ectotherms at the Los Angeles Zoo. Of course, most readers will never have heard of this little-known reptile, but Wusstig and his colleagues are hoping to change that.

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Celebrated CA Condor Keepers Leaving the Nest

Storied L.A. Zoo California condor keepers Mike Clark and Chandra David are retiring after a life-changing and world-changing career. We’re catching up and saying goodbye with an epic recap of all the helicopters, climbing gear, cutting-edge science, and Advil it takes to save a species. Plus, discover the sounds, sights, sacrifices they will never forget and the eleventh-hour “hail Mary” that may help keep the condor program moving forward even as these two stalwarts are taking a well-deserved rest. Heads up: It’s going to be a literal cliffhanger.

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Zoo Update with GLAZA Interim President Dawn Petersen-Amend

The Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association is celebrating its 61st anniversary, and we want to take you inside the history and milestones that YOU helped make possible. It all starts with 1963 and Cary Grant.

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Zoo Update with Zoo Director and CEO Denise M. Verret

As we welcome the month of October, I’m reminded of the beauty of autumn—the season of change, transition, and reflection. Just as the season turns and offers relief from the summer heat, we at the Los Angeles Zoo are experiencing some exciting changes as well. The end of summer brings with it a sense of excitement and anticipation, as our young visitors and paid interns return to school, bringing their stories from summer camps and

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Zoo Update with GLAZA Interim President Dawn Petersen-Amend

Take a look at who’s making us proud this month, the event that’s on everyone’s mind right now, and the question that guides everything happening in the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association—all from GLAZA Interim President Dawn Petersen-Amend.

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An enormous king vulture, with its cream- and taupe-colored wings and colorful bald head, presents to the camera.

Career Highlights from “Rock Star” Reptile Curator

Curator of Reptiles, Amphibians and Fish Ian Recchio grew up around snakes. It was a family pastime that ultimately led to a 30-year career at the Zoo, culminating in his role as curator, which is coming to a close as he retires from the Zoo in August.

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A man squats on scrubby ground while holding a tiny snake with tongs and thick, leather gloves.

Zoo Update with Zoo Director and CEO Denise M. Verret – August 2024

I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible achievements and milestones we’ve reached together so far this year at the Los Angeles Zoo. It’s already proven to be a season of growth, learning, and profound impact. I am thrilled to share some highlights with you.

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A multicolored, tropical toucan with a jagged beak appears to scowl begrudgingly as he looks into the distance.

Zoo Update with GLAZA Interim President Dawn Petersen-Amend – July 2024

GLAZA has planned a summer of excitement-filled events at the Zoo to appeal to all ages. We invite you to join us for some (or all!) of our summer celebrations.

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