Grieving ‘Akio’
We're heartbroken to share that last month, we made the compassionate decision to euthanize our 15-year-old male gentoo penguin ‘Akio’, following a rapid decline in his health. In 2013, Akio showed clinical…
Read MoreGiraffes: Our giraffe tower will not be viewable until after 10 a.m. on Thursday, June 11, to accommodate routine habitat work. Thank you for your understanding.
Jihad Shibley Rocky Mountain Aviary: The Jihad Shibley Rocky Mountain Aviary is temporarily closed. Thank you for your understanding.
Avian Influenza Protocols: The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza within 200 kilometres of the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo.
The health and well-being of the animals in our care remains our top priority. Out of an abundance of caution, we’re proactively implementing the following measures to protect our avian species:
Our dedicated Animal Care, Health & Welfare team will continue to monitor the situation and prioritize the health and well-being of the animals in our care. Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we work to keep the animals we all care about safe.
PETRONAS Gateway to Asia Malayan Tapir Viewing: ‘Sempurna’ and her female calf ‘Nyawa’ have daily access to either the main indoor habitat or the outdoor habitat from 9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. They’ll also have access to their behind-the-scenes space and may choose to spend time there, so viewing isn’t always guaranteed. Thank you for your understanding.
Exploration Asia
The Exploration Asia Redevelopment project is officially underway! While there are some viewing impacts in the area, you can still visit many of your favourite species.
Due to significant construction activities in and around Exploration Asia, the zoo’s West Gate will remain closed for the 2025 season and is expected to remain closed until at least 2028/2029. This necessary step supports the safe movement of visitors while we undertake exciting improvements to animal habitats and visitor experiences.
Bite-Sized
We have a triplet birthday! Our sounder of Red River hogs, ‘Kwango’, ‘Sankuru’, and ‘Lokoro’ are turning six years old today!
Red River hogs are the most colourful members of the pig family, and their colouration can vary depending on where they are from. This species is typically red, but they can feature white stripes and white facial masks. Male hogs, like the brothers here, will usually have two well-developed warts. These warts even have a purpose – they help to protect from tusk damage when males scrabble with each other!
Stop by the African Savannah to wish our hog trio a happy, happy, happy birthday!

Red River hogs