ZooTampa at Lowry Park

Join us for as we travel around the world to highlight animals from almost every continent. Across North America, countries and cultures are coming together to celebrate the same thing: The FIFA World Cup 2026! 🌎️

Today, we are highlighting a species native to the West coasts of South America: the Inca Tern! These mustachioed beauties are well known for their striking, white, handlebar 'stache that acts as an indicator of their overall health. The bird is primarily found along the cold waters of the Humboldt current, fishing and nesting along the rocky shorelines.

Last week, our team landed in San Juan, Puerto Rico, to meet with peers from North Carolina Zoo, Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, and Fort Worth Zoo to participate in the conservation of unique native wildlife, with a focus on the Puerto Rican Crested Toad (Concho Toad).

Throughout the week, the team traveled the archipelago to survey wild amphibians, looking to learn more about how environmental factors affect populations. Working with fellow Zoos and local biologists, (Sapo Concho Puertorriqueño - Puerto Rican Crested Toad - Working Group) our team was able to conduct hormonal and reproductive research on coquis, a small native species of tree frog. Every night, the team went on the search for more native amphibians, especially Puerto Rican Crested Toads, getting the opportunity to witness Puerto Rico's vibrantly diverse ecosystems along the way.

On Day six, our team got to participate in the release of over 10,000 Puerto Rican Crested Toad tadpoles that were hatched at the Nashville Zoo, Buffalo Zoo, and Disney's Animal Kingdom. It will take the tadpoles anywhere from 30-45 days to metamorphize into froglets, hopefully adding to the native population.

At the end of the trip, our team assisted with Virgin Island Boa surveys, placing PIT tags, collecting samples for genetic analysis, and performing ultrasounds to assess potentially gravid female boas. Even though the team travelled primarily for the Puerto Rican Crested Toad, it was a privilege to participate in the conservation of so many different species.

The more the merrier! Malaika, meaning "angel" in Swahili, was born on May 28 to her protective mother, Alake. 🦏

Even at just a couple weeks old, Malaika's personality is shining through. Unlike her half-sister born earlier this year, Kelele, Malaika is a bit more timid, preferring to stick by mom. If Malaika continues to meet her developmental milestones, she will join the other eight members of the white rhino crash by the end of this month.

For now, you may be able to see Malaika from Expedition Wild Africa!

Be bright and bold with new favorites from ZooTampa! 🌈

Explore our summer collections during your next visit, where you're sure to find a new wardrobe staple that will keep you looking and feeling cool all season long.

Members, during the month of June, save 30% on this tasteful tie-dye hat when you visit the gift shop!

Ready for the weekend? Active-duty military members can explore the Zoo FREE with up to three additional guests!

All active-duty military members and their families can receive one complimentary admission for themselves and up to 3 additional dependents this summer. We're proud to salute those who serve our country and provide them with unforgettable natural connections.

Offer may only be claimed once per active duty military member from 5/25/26 – 9/7/26

https://zootampa.org/summer-salute-offers/