July-September 2026
Keepin’ it Wild !
A digital publication of Zoo Miami Foundation and Zoo Miami.
OUR MISSION: To inspire people to preserve nature and motivate others to join us through community engagement, fundraising, and building relationships.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: - Sweet Summer Treats - Florida the Flamingo Hatches - Summer Savings & Events
Keepin’ it Wild is a quarterly digital publication of Zoo Miami Foundation that provides information for the friends, supporters and Members of Zoo Miami.
For more information, please contact:
Zoo Miami Foundation
12400 SW 152 Street, Miami, FL 33177 (305) 255-5551 / www.zoomiami.org
Zoo Miami Foundation’s Mission
To inspire people to preserve nature and motivate others to join us through community engagement, fundraising, and building relationships.
Zoo Miami Foundation Board of Directors:
Chair: Alan S. Atkinson
Chair-Elect: Joseph R. Salzverg
Treasurer: Alexander Binelo
Secretary: Maryam Laguna Borrego, Ed.D.
Past Chair: Jose Felix Diaz
Ron Aberman
Alan Atkinson
Rodney Barreto
Brittnie Bassant
Jason A. Bell
Alexander E. Binelo
Javier Borges
Maryam Laguna Borrego, Ed.D.
Ashley Boxer
Richard Bruguera
Sharymar E. Calderon
James A. Carenza
Mayor Daniella Levine Cava
Jason S. Comer
Jose Felix Diaz, Esq
Derick Duchodni
Kenneth J. Duvall
Will Elgar
Armando Fernandez
Emeriti Directors
Vincent L. Berkeley
Jennifer Boin Getz
Roger Carlton
Harlan S. Chiron, MD
Ambassador Sue Cobb
Linda Coll
William J. Gallwey, III, Esq.
Robert W. Hudson, Esq.
Sherrill W. Hudson
Bernard Klepach
President/CEO: Jose C. Romano
Zoo Director: Will Elgar
Zoo Admission Hours:
10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily
Last ticket sold at 4 p.m.
Editor: Rashielle Clarke
Contributors:
LETTER FROM THE CEO
Victor H. Herrera
Philip F. Kushlan
Mireya Mayor, PhD
Katharine A. McDonald
Sara Elizabeth Nainzadeh
Marc A. Osheroff
Martha H. Rabbitt
José C. Romano
Joseph R. Salzverg
Luisa F. Santos
Joshua Schertzer
Eduardo M. Soto
Keith St. Clair
Ana VeigaMilton, Esq.
John S. Vidalin
Fred Voccola
Christina White
Steven C. Williamson
David Konfino
Jim Kushlan, PhD
Daniel J. Licciardi
Manny J. Rodriguez, P.E.
Edward Soto
Eric J. Stephens
Lawrence O. Turner, Jr.
Diana Udel
Andrew H. Weinstein, Esq.
Coral Cadaval, Cindy Castelblanco, Michael Hitchcock, Ron Magill, and Jose Romano.
Layout & Design: Photography: Parrot Fish Studio Ron Magill
Special thanks to Ana VeigaMilton and the Zoo Miami staff, for without these people, this publication would not be possible.
Dear Friends,
We are in the thick of summer at Zoo Miami and this year, we are simply bursting with exciting events, deals, and news. While school is out, we are proud to offer South Florida families so many ways to spend time together and embark on new adventures.
As usual, our campers, from little tots to teens, bring so much life and laughter to the walkways of Zoo Miami. Our awardwinning camp programs continue to find innovative and educational ways to engage our young explorers, nurturing them to explore themes from the simple joys of nature up to career opportunities in the zoo world.
Of course, we know how challenging it can be to keep the entire family entertained and engaged throughout the season. Which is why we are always thrilled to offer wonderful savings opportunities, from $15 Mondays at Zoo Miami, to the South Florida Adventure Pass which offers access to 5 local attractions. We’re also excited to introduce a new partnership with Zoo Miami and Wynwood Walls, with the “Imagination Runs Wild” combo ticket so locals and visitors can explore both their wild side and their artistic nature.
Beyond our savings opportunities, we have some exciting events and programs that are sure to create epic memories for friends and families. In keeping with the summer season, bugs have taken over Zoo Miami, and they’re larger than life! The Bugtopia exhibit has officially opened at our park, with 13 animatronic superhero bugs and 2 awesome photo stations. Plus, on July 18 & 19, we’re throwing a Summer Bash for families, with bouse houses, water slides, a live DJ, and more. Bring the whole family out and get ready to make a splash.
While we enjoy the summer break, our animal care teams at Zoo Miami continue to do excellent work in making sure that our animal residents are happy and healthy. Throughout this issue, you’ll read more about the birth of a flamingo chick named “Florida,” wellness exams for our black bear sisters, how we monitor our apes for cardiovascular disease, and more. Plus, enjoy some amazing photos of our animals enjoying watermelon treats, courtesy of The Berry Farm!
As always, thank you to our Zoo members, guests, donors, and partners for your support year-round. We can’t wait to see you this summer!
José Romano ZMF President/CEO
Florida the Flamingo Hatches at Zoo Miami
Summer Savings and Events
World Cup Enrichment
A Sweet Summer Treat
Zoo Miami animals are treated to delicious watermelon courtesy of the Berry Farm Bugtopia
Adventures in Learning Register now for our Annual Campout, Day Camps, and Homeschool Zoofari
Summer Zoo Camp
Notes for Members
The Passing of Tengi the Tapir Into the Wild
Gardens in Bloom at Zoo Miami
Black Bear Wellness Exams
Cardiovascular Disease in Apes
ZooRun2026
Thriving in Fatherhood
Florida the Flamingo
On Saturday, June 6, Zoo Miami welcomed a Caribbean flamingo hatchling. Its parents are a 22-year-old female and a 10-year-old male. The egg was artificially incubated for a period of 28 days.
Our Animal Science staff in the Avian Propagation Center have been taking great care of the little chick, with daily walks to encourage proper physical development. The hatchling has also been feeding well. Once it has developed its full feathering and is feeding well all on its own, it will be introduced to the rest of the Zoo Miami flock!
In support of a strong campaign to officially name the flamingo the State Bird of Florida, we are proud to name this first successful hatchling of the year, “Florida!”
Thanks in part to the efforts of the Zoo Miami Conservation and Research team, Caribbean flamingos are now officially listed as a native Florida bird. With the frequent appearances of flamingos now seen living in the state, the hope is that this iconic species will take up permanent residence in Florida and successfully reproduce. Their regular appearances are an encouraging sign that Everglades restoration efforts are making a positive difference!
The sex of our newest hatchling hasn’t yet been determined, but stay tuned for more info and be sure to keep an eye out for when it joins the flock in the Zoo Miami Entry Plaza! The chick will stand out from the flock in light grey as flamingos don’t achieve their iconic pink adult coloration until they are close to three years old.
World Cup Fever at Zoo Miami!
World Cup may be coming to an end, but we’ve still got football fever at Zoo Miami!
Rep your country’s World Cup jersey to celebrate Finals Weekend and score $5 OFF admission at Zoo Miami, now through July 19, 2026. Cannot be combined with any other discount. Not valid on group admissions. No refunds or rainchecks.
Come watch our giraffes celebrate the Bronze Final (Third-Place Match)
Saturday, July 18 11:00 am with a special enrichment activity!
A Sweet Summer Treat
Name a more refreshing sweet treat than a fresh watermelon!
Thanks to The Berry Farm, several of our animals got to enjoy this wonderful summer ritual, from our Sumatran tiger to elephants and rhinos.
Some animals, like our warthogs, pygmy hippos, and chimpanzees simply enjoyed the watermelon as a special treats. Others, like our Sumatran tiger and meerkats saw it as stimulating enrichment. Since carnivores like our Sumatran tiger don’t normally enjoy watermelon as part of their diet, the Zoo Miami Carnivore team coated the melons with one of her favorite baby food treats to entice her! While she didn’t chow down on it, she enjoyed tearing it apart with her teeth and claws. The meerkats eagerly dug through their melons for hidden grubs, instinctively using their natural foraging behaviors.
Zoo Miami is so grateful to The Berry Farms for not only this generous donation of delicious watermelons, but also for their ongoing support of Zoo Miami for the last several years!
Giant Insects have taken over Zoo Miami, now through October 31!
Larger-than-life bugs have transformed Zoo Miami into a bold, comic book universe where insects become gigantic, colorful, and heroic!
13 colossal animatronic superhero bugs 2 dynamic photo op stations
From the entrance all the way around the Conservation Action Center, guests will encounter towering and moving insect champions in action poses — each paired with vibrant comic style panels packed with fun facts, sound effects, and awesome bug lore for both kids and adults. Step in. join the Bug Brigade before they flyaway!
Included with Zoo Miami admission
Wild Connections LIVE!
11:30 AM & 2:30 PM
Sami Family Amphitheater
Discover the first-class adaptations that help these animals survive and thrive in the wild in these twice daily presentations. Whether they’re soaring, slithering, or sprinting, these extraordinary travelers prove that nature offers the best travel year-round. Have your “paws-ports” ready, this wild summer journey is about to begin!
New Tram Service!
Just in time to beat the summer heat, we’re excited to introduce our NEW summer transportation service!
Our hop-on, hop-off trams operate daily from noon to 4:30 pm*, making it easier than ever to get around the Zoo while taking a break from the heat. Along the way, you’ll enjoy unique views from our service roads, giving you a behind-the-scenes perspective of the Zoo that most guests never get to see! Trams arrive approximately every 30–45 minutes and are FREE for a limited time. Check out the stops on our free Zoo Miami app or visit zoomiami.org
* Times may change due to staffing.
Adventures IN LEARNING
DAY CAMP
Ages 5 - 12
During legal holidays and Teacher Planning Days, our one-day camps are both fun and packed w ith wild experiences.
Upcoming sessions & themes:
September 7, 2026: Wicked Wildlife
September 21, 2026: Creatures of the Night
REGISTER NOW
Fees: $52 per child for Zoo members; $65 per child for non-members ROARS,
Join us for a Spooktacular Annual Roars, S’mores and Snores Campout and discover the wild side of South Florida in our very own backyard at Zoo Miami as we celebrate our 20th annual campout—with a spooky twist!
Explore the mysterious world of animals and plants that shaped South Florida with a guided night Tram Tour, all while enjoying a night filled with eerie adventures, hands-on activities, and family-friendly fun.
Bring your own tent and don’t miss out! Groups must include 1 adult for every 8 minors (under 18 years of age).
REGISTER NOW
OcTObER 10-11, 2026 6 PM – 9:30 AM
Fees: $80/ person for Zoo members; $90/ person for non-members
*If you attend a Title 1 School, this event is at no cost with a Promo code. Please email education@zoomiami.org.
HOMESCHOOL ZOOFARI
Did you know that we offer homeschool experiences for elementary, middle, and high school students? Come discover, learn, and connect with nature in a unique educational setting at Homeschool Zoofari!
Elementary School
August 27, 2026: Pollinators and Plant Helpers
September 17, 2026: Camouflage and Mimicry
October 15, 2026: Nocturnal Animals
High/Middle School
August 28, 2026: Engineering for Animals
September 18, 2026: Field Biology and Data Collection
October 16, 2026: Wildlife Forensics
Spots are still available for our award-winning Zoo Camp this summer at Zoo Miami! Kids of all ages will enjoy hands-on activities, animal encounters, educational adventures, and more!
SUMMER CAMP
Ages 5 - 12
Keep the learning going throughout the summer!
Let your child discover their wild side and beat the boredom with a fun, educational camp experience at Zoo Miami.
TEEN CAREERS CAMP
Ages 13-15
Weekly sessions are available now through August 7, 2026
Explore a different theme each week!
Habitats of the World
Wonders of the Wild Journey Through the Tropics
Water Worlds Safari Through the Continents
Zoo Careers Camp is an immersive career exploration camp where teens will discover the countless careers that keep Zoo Miami running!
After a full week of exclusive hands-on experiences and behind-the-scenes adventures, your teen is sure to discover what they want to be when they grow up!
August 3 - August 7, 2026
Only a few spots left!
Members save $5 on Summer Bash tickets, PLUS one-hour early entry!
Join us for a day of family-fun, including bounce houses, water slides, live DJs, and more.
Claim Your Discounted Tickets
Zoo Members enjoy $10 OFF South Florida Adventure Passes to extend their unlimited admission to the Museum of Discovery and Science, Butterfly World, Sawgrass Recreation Park, and Flamingo Gardens!
Simply fill out the Enrollment Form and bring to Member Services!
Did you know that Zoo Miami Members get 20% Off Registration for education programs like Zoo Camp, Wild Nights, and more?
Register Now! BECOME A MEMBER!
Contact education@zoomiami.org to receive your special promo code!
Become a Member toDAY To Unlock a Year of Wild
Join the Zoo Miami family today to enjoy special benefits like these, all while supporting Zoo Miami Foundation’s mission year-round.
Mourning the Loss of Tengi
It is with great sadness that Zoo Miami announces the passing of our female Malayan tapir, Tengi.
For six months, Tengi, Zoo Miami’s 9-year-old Malayan tapir, had been experiencing gradual weight loss accompanied by a waxing and waning appetite. Despite an extensive range of treatments and diagnostic efforts, laboratory results continued to indicate chronic abnormalities that were not resolving.
Advanced diagnostic procedures included radiographs, ultrasounds, endoscopy, an extensive dental evaluation, cultures, specialized laboratory testing, and, most recently, a CT examination. In addition, a wide variety of therapeutic approaches were pursued, including conventional Western medicine, Chinese veterinary medicine,
dietary modifications, and nutritional supplements. Unfortunately, these interventions had little impact, and Tengi’s health continued to decline.
Ultimately, the CT scan revealed severe damage to the bones in the upper neck, as well as a mass within her spinal canal. In conjunction with these findings, Tengi began to experience substantial difficulties with mobility and balance. These challenges, combined with her continued weight loss and overall decline in quality of life, led to the difficult but compassionate decision to euthanize her.
Learn more about our upcoming destinations. bRA zil & PANTANA l
August 1 – 15, 2027
September 26 – October 9, 2027 A
Discover the incredible wildlife of Brazil on and unforgettable journey through the Pantanal.
N AT i ONA l PAR k S
September 12 – 29, 2026
An expedition through legendary landscapes in Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Glacier, Zion, the Grand Canyon, and more
lEARN MORE & bOOk NOW
kEN yA
Experience the magic of Kenya’s iconic savannas and wildlife-rich landscapes on an unforgettable safari adventure.
Gardens in Bloom at Zoo Miami
Through accreditation by ArbNet and the American Public Gardens Association (APGA), Zoo Miami has earned prestigious recognition for excellence in plant conservation, horticulture, and botanical garden management. This achievement reflects years of dedication by our horticulture team to cultivating, preserving, and showcasing extraordinary plant collections from around the world.
In addition, Zoo Miami is a proud member of the Association of Zoological Horticulture (AZH) and North American Japanese Garden Association (NAJGA)!
Butterfly Gardens
Located in Children’s Zoo and the east side of the Amphitheater
Located in the walkway to the Entry Plaza
Gigi’s Children’s Maze
Pre-Historic Garden
Palm Promenade
Stroll beneath a stunning canopy of palms representing species from around the globe. This iconic walkway celebrates one of South Florida’s signature plant families in dramatic fashion.
Butterfly Gardens
Designed to attract and support native pollinators, these vibrant gardens provide essential habitat for butterflies and other beneficial insects — while offering guests a colorful and immersive experience.
Succulent Garden
A striking display of sculptural, drought-tolerant plants from arid regions around the world. This garden highlights the beauty and resilience of species uniquely adapted to thrive in challenging climates.
Gigi’s Children’s Maze
A playful and interactive garden experience designed especially for our youngest explorers. This living maze encourages curiosity, discovery, and a hands-on connection with nature.
Pine Rockland Garden
One of South Florida’s most endangered ecosystems comes to life in this conservation-focused garden. Featuring native species that once dominated the Miami landscape, this collection helps preserve and educate guests about this rare habitat.
Pre-Historic Garden
Step back in time and discover ancient plant lineages that once grew alongside dinosaurs. Cycads, ferns, and other primitive plants showcase the fascinating evolution of the plant kingdom.
Garden
Black Bear Checkups
Black bear sisters “Laurel” and “Libby” recently visited the Zoo Miami Animal Hospital for their wellness exams as part of a preventative medicine program. The 16-year-old bears received series of radiographs, ultrasound exams, dental cleanings, blood and urine collection, rabies vaccines, and eye exams, as well as overall body assessments.
All the procedures were directed by Zoo Miami’s Animal Health team with assistance from the Animal Science team. In addition to being a bit overweight, Laurel’s radiographs revealed advanced spinal arthritis. Libby also had a small growth on her tongue which was removed for biopsy. Both bears showed some signs of age-related mild dental disease. All other indications are that they are generally in good condition for their age and have since returned to their habitats where they appear to have made a full recovery from the procedures.
ANIMALS & US
Cardiovascular disease in apes
In one of the latest episodes of “Animals and Us” on the Zoo Miami YouTube channel, we explore the risk of cardiovascular disease in great apes and how our animal care and veterinary teams monitor our apes. Trust plays a crucial role in that process, as our apes voluntarily participate in examinations.
Watch the video above to learn more, and be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel, @ZooMiami1, for more Zoo Miami stories.
This year marks the inaugural ZooRun Half Marathon—a 13.1-mile adventure unlike any other. This brand-new course includes the full 10K and 5K routes, then takes runners on an additional 7 miles through Zoo Miami's rare Pine Rocklands and the Zoo's outer perimeter, offering a one-of-a-kind race experience.
Ron Magill, Zoo Miami Foundation’s Goodwill Ambassador, is returning to classrooms and community groups across Miami-Dade to inspire audiences with his unforgettable wildlife adventures, award-winning photography, and incredible stories from around the world.
Perfect for large groups, this engaging presentation encourages curiosity about wildlife, conservation, and the natural world while leaving participants entertained and inspired.
MONSTER MASQUERADE At Zoo Miami THE
Thriving in Fatherhood
Thank You to our Donors!
A year ago, history was made at Zoo Miami! Last year, our beloved Galapagos tortoise, “Goliath”, became a first-time father when one egg from a clutch of 48 successfully hatched on June 4, 2025. A few months later, the female tortoise laid another clutch of eggs with another fertilized egg that also hatched! Goliath is now a father of two, and the little ones are being raised together!
At an incredible 135 years old, becoming a dad was a remarkable milestone for Goliath, but it was also a landmark moment for Zoo Miami. The June 2025 hatchling represents the first Galapagos tortoise ever hatched in our Zoo’s history, making it a truly unforgettable achievement for both our animal care team and conservation efforts.
Our work at Zoo Miami and Zoo Miami Foundation would not be possible without our generous donors, who support our efforts in education, conservation, and animal care.
Thanks to you, we celebrate 46 years of amazing guest experiences, historical milestones with our animals, and award-winning educational programming.