Everybody loves Obi!

Hi everyone! My name is Caroline, and I’m one of the many animal care professionals here at Zoo Atlanta. Today I’d love to share the story of Obsidian the black vulture, his journey to Zoo Atlanta, and how he’s quickly become a star at the World of Wild Theater presented by Georgia Natural Gas! Black vultures are native to the United States and can be found right here in Atlanta, where they help clean up our environment. They are an integral part of our environment as they can digest a variety of diseases while cleaning up carcasses, helping keep all of us safe.  

Obsidian, or as his care team lovingly refers to him, Obi, was born in the wild. Unfortunately, he suffered an injury to his leg in the wild and was taken in by a rehabilitation center. It was there he was deemed non-releasable, and the search for a more permanent home began. Lucky for us, Obi found his way to Zoo Atlanta, where he quickly became a favorite among our team and the Members and guests who watch him in theater presentations.  

He’s full of personality, from his excited wing flaps that come with seeing his favorite trainer, to splashing in the creek in his habitat, to his playful antics on stage. We began training Obi in a contained, indoor space, then slowly worked our way towards training him outdoors at the World of Wild Theater. In less than just six months, he’s become quite a star. Now, not only does he run out on stage to show off his carrion cleanup skills, but he’s also learning to fly right above our audiences. Next time you’re at Zoo Atlanta, stop by the World of Wild Theater to see Obi in a presentation, or admire him right outside the theater in his habitat!  

Caroline B.  
Ambassador Animals Team