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We do not usually think of cancers as being infectious because cancers themselves are generally not pathogens. As in all of biology, however, there are exceptions, and one such exception is the case of an actually pathogenic, infectious cancer that is causing tremendous conservation threats to the Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) in Australia. Those of … Continue reading "Tackling novel threats to biodiversity"

Many of you have had the opportunity to observe our gorilla bachelor group of Mbeli, Kal and Gunther grow up and develop over the past few years. Spending most of their days together in Habitat 4 in the gorilla area of The Ford African Rain Forest, these three were introduced to each other in 2012. Gunther and … Continue reading "Exploring bachelor gorillas’ social behaviors"

Macaws are large members of the parrot family found throughout Central and South America. Their bright colors and loud vocalizations are important tools for communication but also make them easy targets for poachers.

Being able to adapt to a change in routine and come up with a new plan is key when working with animals. This is especially important when working with the giant pandas. For example, there are days where the giant pandas will spend all afternoon sleeping. That’s okay, though! We don’t want to disturb them … Continue reading "Panda Updates – Monday, August 19"

Radiated tortoises are only native to the island of Madagascar but have been introduced to two other small islands to the east - Réunion and Mauritius. They are named for the yellow lined patterns on their shells. They are herbivores and much of their diet comes from grazing on grasses, which helps keeps plants trimmed back. The illegal pet trade and poaching are major threats, and conservation efforts are underway to save this critically endangered tortoise.

Wildlife trafficking is a serious problem. In fact, it’s the fourth largest transnational crime behind drug, firearm and human trafficking. Many people don’t realize that the United States is one of the largest markets for illegal wildlife products. For a variety of reasons, despite the thought of numerous animal species going extinct, the demand for … Continue reading "Do You Know How to Spot Trafficking?"

Even when a female giant panda is not pregnant, she may still exhibit behaviors or undergo physiological changes as if she is. This phenomenon is called pseudopregnancy. Because certain behavioral changes and hormonal indicators might suggest pregnancy, it can be hard to tell if a giant panda is actually pregnant (although in our case, we … Continue reading "Panda Updates – Wednesday, August 14"

Zoo Atlanta has participated in the Quarters for Conservation program since 2016. This initiative contributes 25 cents of every general admission ticket to programs for wildlife. I know a quarter may seem small, but they really do add up, and the positive impact that it provides for wildlife is immense. As a member of the Hoofstock Team here at … Continue reading "Update from the field: Giraffe Conservation Foundation"

You’re invited to the biggest party of the year! On August 24, the Bird Team will be celebrating a very special day – Cecil’s 40th hatch-day! If you’ve never had the opportunity to meet him, Cecil is our beloved double-wattled cassowary. Double-wattled cassowaries, also known as the southern cassowary, live on average to be 30 years old in human care. Reaching well above this average, Cecil is the oldest … Continue reading "Celebrating Cecil!"

Hello! My name is Sam, and I am the newest addition to the Carnivore Team as a Seasonal Keeper. A little bit about me, I am originally from Orlando, Florida. I just graduated in May from the University of South Florida. Throughout my college career, I was able to do internships at other zoos and … Continue reading "What’s on the menu for giant otters?"