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Rio sneaks off with a beak full of wood wool, helping himself to more nesting material from his fellow penguin pals! 🐧
The baby owl has started taking small adventures around zoo grounds as it continues to grow and build confidence. These curious outings are an important part of development, helping the young owlet practice new skills and become more comfortable for future close encounters.
Be among the first to meet this adorable young chick this Thursday, June 4, at 2 p.m. at the Wild Wonders Outdoor Theater!
Happy Pride Month! 🌈 Join us in celebrating inclusion, compassion, and empathy at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. Our Pride Celebration returns June 20–21, bringing our community together to honor love, diversity, and belonging while connecting with wildlife, nature, and one another. We look forward to celebrating with you! 🐾💙
Lunch is served! These two penguin chicks are enjoying a meal from their parents, who regurgitate food to feed their growing young. Every snack helps these fluffy chicks grow a little bigger and stronger. 💙🐧
📹: Animal Curator Jen
🌊 Celebrate World Reef Day with us! 🐠
Dive into the vibrant underwater world of our Coral Reef Up-Close habitat inside the Tropical Reef Aquarium. Discover dazzling corals, colorful fish, and learn why coral reefs are some of the most important ecosystems on Earth. These incredible habitats support marine life, protect coastlines, and help keep our oceans healthy. 🪸
Throwback to baby Pepper for World Sea Lion Day! From tiny pup to soon-to-be big sister, Pepper has come a long way. We’re counting down the days until she welcomes a new sister or brother this summer, and we can’t wait to see her take on her newest role! 💗
Big changes are happening for our growing spectacled owlet! 🦉✨
The baby owl continues to thrive as its fluffy white down slowly gives way to darker feathers, including the beginnings of the species’ signature “spectacles,” the markings around the eyes that look like a pair of glasses.
Did you know tapirs “talk” too? One-year-old tapir Ume has been making adorable chirps as she explores her different habitats. Tapirs communicate using whistles, squeaks, chirps, and soft grunts to stay connected and express themselves.
Join us in wishing Ume safe travels during a farewell weekend, this Saturday and Sunday, May 30 & 31! Our beloved Malayan tapir, Ume, is heading off to her next big adventure at another accredited zoo in the Midwest in early June. After growing from a spotted little “watermelon on legs” into an independent young tapir, it’s time for Ume to begin the next chapter of her journey. We’re waiting for the receiving zoo to announce her arrival and will share updates on our social media once they do.
📹: Animal care staff Katie
