In August 2025, Mom Kianga welcomed a baby girl chimpanzee, and we’re delighted to report that both mother and daughter continue to do well.

Now, we invite you to be a part of this special moment by helping us choose the perfect name for the newest member of the chimpanzee troop. The names you’ll see were carefully chosen by her dedicated animal care team.

At the Zoo, it has become a tradition to select names that carry meaning, often inspired by the animal’s parents. Her mother, Kianga, has a name that means sunshine—so our keepers chose names that reflect a similar theme of light, hope, and beauty.

We also honor chimpanzees in the wild by drawing inspiration from languages spoken in the regions where they naturally live. This gives each name a deeper connection to the species’ heritage and story.

The Potential Names Are:

Mkali (muh-KAH-lee):  meaning bright

Mwezi (MWEH-Zee): meaning moon

Kamari (KAH-mah-ree): meaning moonlight

Amali (uh-MAH-lee): meaning hope

Ndanya (N-DAN-ya): meaning rainbow

Voting is open now through September 1, 2025. The winning name will be announced shortly after voting closes!

Thank you for being part of our extended Zoo family and for supporting our mission to inspire people to value and conserve our natural world.

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (July 7, 2025) – Today, the Little Rock Zoo showcased the grand opening of two extraordinary exhibits: Isle of the Dragon: Komodo Exhibit and Hidden Corners of the World: Uncommon Creatures, just in time for Hiland Dairy Dollar Day scheduled for Sat., July 12. 

Komodo dragons are an exciting new species at the Zoo. “The Isle of the Dragon” exhibit is located on the west side of the reptile building and brings guests face-to-face with two awe-inspiring Komodo Dragons: one female juvenile (Tiamat) and one male juvenile (Iroh). The immersive experience offers a rare and unforgettable opportunity to observe Komodo dragons up close and watch them grow. Both Komodo dragons are smaller in size and will grow to full size in a few years. The project is funded in part with capital dollars from the City of Little Rock and privately raised funds from the Laura P. Nichols Foundation and Hiland Dairy.

Komodo dragons are the largest reptile species, with some males growing to be as long as 10 feet. Komodos are indigenous to the islands of Komodo, Rinca, Flores, Gili Dasami and Gili Motang, with the largest population inhabiting Komodo. They are apex predators that consume mammals and birds, and are known for their hunting and ambush abilities. Classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), their numbers have declined due to habitat loss and poaching. The Zoo’s Komodos come to Little Rock through a recommendation of the Species Survival Plan (SSP).

In addition to the new Komodo exhibit, the Zoo introduced its new amphibian and reptile habitat, “Hidden Corners of the World: Uncommon Creatures”. Funded by a generous gift from the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce in honor of Toad Suck Daze, “Hidden Corners” will shine a spotlight on rare and remarkable reptiles and amphibians from some of the planet’s most remote and biodiverse regions. From brilliantly colored frogs to elusive lizards, the exhibit will showcase nature’s incredible diversity and will highlight the important role these lesser-known species play in maintaining healthy ecosystems.

The unveiling of these exhibits comes just in time for Hiland Dairy Dollar Day, Saturday, July 12. This annual event, funded by long-time Zoo donor Hiland Dairy, is popular with families all across the state. All guests will enjoy entry to the Zoo for just one dollar, making it the perfect opportunity for them to experience these fascinating new attractions.

“We are incredibly proud to open these two unique exhibits that highlight both the power and mystery of some of the world’s most fascinating creatures,” said Susan Altrui, Director of the Little Rock Zoo. “These exhibits not only give our guests unforgettable experiences but also inspire a deeper appreciation for wildlife and the importance of conservation.”

“The Little Rock Zoo also looks forward to welcoming guests to our annual Hiland Dairy Dollar Day this Saturday, where they will have a chance to see these exciting new habitats and enjoy a day at the Zoo with their family,” added Altrui. 

For more information about the new exhibits and upcoming events, visit www.littlerockzoo.com.

LITTLE ROCK (June 26, 2025) – The Little Rock Zoo is sad to announce the passing of its youngest male orangutan, Kota, who passed earlier this week from encephalitis.  

The animal care staff observed Kota showing signs of lethargy.  The Zoo veterinary staff and animal care staff worked together to administer care. Specialists were called to assist, but Kota continued to decline. Gross necropsy showed lesions on Kota’s brain indicative of diffuse encephalopathy, or widespread dysfunction of the brain and brain hemorrhaging. Lab sample results should reveal a more specific cause. 

Kota was born at the Little Rock Zoo on February 23, 2024, to Bornean orangutans Berani and Bandar. He was the second baby born to the pair after Kasih was born in 2019. Kota quickly captured the hearts of guests and staff and will be greatly missed by all. 

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (June 24, 2025) — Today, City of Little Rock officials and Zoo representatives held a groundbreaking ceremony to introduce “Project Zoo: Wildly Reimagined.” A bold new construction project that reflects the Zoo’s passion for creating enriched environments for animals and unforgettable moments for every visitor. 

Project Zoo: Wildly Reimagined is one of the largest projects both in size, scale and cost that the Little Rock Zoo has ever undertaken. The project renovates a significant part of the Zoo and is made possible with funding from the 2022 Bond passed by voters of the City of Little Rock and donations raised by the Arkansas Zoological Foundation. A public art sculpture at the front entry is made possible through private funding, along with other contributions that make up the total project cost of more than $12 million. 

“This is the start of a transformational project, beyond bricks and pathways; this transformation is about the deep connection between our community and the natural world,” said Susan Altrui, Zoo Director. “Our mission is to have people value and conserve wildlife with an outpouring of support together. We are making the zoo a vibrant hub of education, sustainability and discovery.” 

Other speakers including Mayor Frank Scott, Jr., Sharmin Moody, Kathy Webb, Jessica Scott, and Ben Beggs shared thoughts on the Zoo ranging from its economic impact on the City, its educational and scientific role in the community, its efforts to make the Zoo more accessible to all residents, and the exciting future the renovations will bring the Zoo.  

The groundbreaking was well-attended by the City’s Mayor Frank Scott, Jr., several City of Little Rock Board of Directors, the Zoo’s Board of Governors, members of the Arkansas Zoological Foundation, and Zoo staff.

WDD Architects designed the project along with Tessere, who advised on animal habitat design. Alessi Keyes will serve as the project manager for the project and Flynco, Inc. has been hired as the general contractor. A full description of the project can be viewed at the Zoo’s website. 

The Arkansas Zoological Foundation is still raising funds toward the new project to provide additional enhancements. Naming opportunities at a variety of levels are available. More information can be found online or by calling 501.661.7208.

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (May 28, 2025) -Join us Saturday, June 7, as we commemorate 100 years of wildlife and wonder with a full day of special activities, family fun, and community celebration from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

We will start the day with a recycling event! From 9 a.m. to noon, the Zoo and partners, the City of Little Rock Sustainability Office, and Keep Little Rock Beautiful, will host a community recycling drive. Acceptable recyclable items include documents, e-waste, plastic bags and wraps, glass, bicycles, and housewares. A complete list is available online.

Thanks to the Little Rock Community Day sponsor, Southern Bancorp, residents of Little Rock will receive discounted Zoo admission of $2 with proof of residency (driver’s license, state-issued ID, or utility bill). Little Rock residents receive the discount as a thank you for their tax dollars that support the Zoo. Parking will be available for just $1. While the discount is for Little Rock residents, all visitors- no matter where they live– are welcome!

In addition to Little Rock Community Day and the recycling event, the Zoo will kick off its centennial celebration with several activities for the entire family to enjoy, including crafts for kids, face painting, a parade (where all are invited), and a costume contest. There will also be birthday cupcakes and treats, while supplies last.

“As we celebrate 100 years of the Little Rock Zoo, we’re not just looking back—we’re looking forward to the next century of impact. Our future is

rooted in sustainability, conservation, and deeper connections with the community we serve. This centennial is just the beginning of bold new plans for the Little Rock Zoo,” said Susan Altrui, Zoo Director.

City of Little Rock representatives will present an exciting look at what’s next for the Little Rock Zoo at 11 a.m. Hear from key speakers, including:

• Susan Altrui, Zoo Director
• Kathy Webb, Little Rock City Board Director
• Capi Peck, Little Rock City Board Director 
• Trippi McCullough, Arkansas State Representative
• Sharmin Moody, Zoo Board of Governors, Chair
• Lisa Buehler, Arkansas Zoological Foundation, Board Chair 

Celebrate a century of connection, conservation, and community—only at the Little Rock Zoo!

Visit the Little Rock Zoo website for more information about our centennial day festivities.

Lion Legal is a new sponsor of the Zoo and has committed $50,000 over a five-year period to the long-standing Little Rock institution.  As a part of their sponsorship, they are supporting events like Wild Wines, Zoo Brew, and GloWild. Lion Legal’s commitment also includes a general donation to the Zoo’s fundraising arm, the Arkansas Zoological Foundation, for the lion exhibit sponsorship and to help defray daily operational costs. 

“Part of the vision of Lion Legal states that they desire to be the most effective legal professionals in their areas of practice and that mirrors the values of the Little Rock Zoo. We desire to be the most effective animal facility in the state of Arkansas, and we are doing that by being the only AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums)- accredited zoo in the State, so we both understand what it means to be the best at what you do,” said Joy Matlock, Little Rock Zoo Director of Marketing and Development. Matlock continued by saying, “Their fierceness in how they do their work and excel for their clients matches the fierceness the Zoo practices in our animal care.”

Matlock also stated that Lion Legal’s support will allow the Zoo to continue in its mission to inspire people to value and conserve our natural world.

Tori Leigh, Partner and Mediator of Lion Legal stated, “Lion Legal is beaming with pride to partner with the Little Rock Zoo. For over a century, the Little Rock Zoo has been an Arkansas institution dedicated to conservation, education, and community engagement-values which deeply resonate with Lion Legal.” Ms. Leigh closed by saying, “We are truly honored to join forces with such a vital organization in our community.”

After the remarks from both organizations, the Zoo’s lion pride- Inara, Saphira, and Ambesoli, played, kicked, tumbled and wrestled with Lion Legal-branded enrichment designed and decorated by Jessica Curnow of the Zoo’s carnivore team.

In addition to its support of Zoo initiatives, Lion Legal has also donated signage now displayed at the lion habitat stating that, “…the lions are proudly supported by the Legal Pride of Arkansas Lion Legal…” 

“This corporate partnership is one in which we could not be prouder. Lion Legal is committed to excellence and to the community, as we are; it is easy to stand beside companies with similar values.” Matlock said.

The Zoo may remain closed on Sunday, January 12, 2025, if dangerous weather conditions remain. Additional updates will be posted on the Zoo’s website and social media channels. Please check these for the latest information.

Presented by Be Well Arkansas, GloWild Shines Again!

LITTLE ROCK (November 6, 2024) – GloWILD opens tomorrow night for another season of illuminating fun. With over 45 nights of spectacular light displays, this event is a #OnceInALightTime experience you won’t want to miss. 

“We are so excited to bring GloWild back to Central Arkansas for a fourth year with brand-new areas to enjoy making it the best GloWILD yet,” said Zoo Director Susan Altrui. “We know that families welcome an elevated winter holiday experience, and GloWILD shines brightly. From magical lanterns to mystical music and interactive experiences that transport visitors to other worlds, GloWILD will continue to be one of the premier holiday destinations in the state,” she said. 

GloWILD will feature special themed nights, including Sensory Night and the GloWILD New Year’s Eve party. A new s’mores area will provide families a delicious new food experience and this year’s event features three new themed areas with brand new lanterns. GloWILD will also have special discounted tickets for families of four, discounted tickets for SNAP benefit families, and more food and fun.

Mystical Marvels: Immerse yourself in the majesty of Asian arts and culture. Encounter towering dragons, beautiful birds, and other fantastical creatures that transport you to a world of imagination!

Animal Kingdom: Witness the majestic migration scenes on the savannah and meet extraordinary animals from around the globe, all brought to life in larger-than-life lanterns.

Under the Sea: Dive into the mesmerizing wonders of the ocean with illuminated visions of whales, sharks, and vibrant coral reefs.

Sensory Night: Join us on Thursday, December 12, 2024, for a special evening where event lights and sounds are adjusted for sensory sensitivity. All guests are welcome!

New Year’s Eve Party: Ring in the New Year with us on December 31, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Free with your regular GloWILD admission!

Event Sponsors

Presented by Be Well Arkansas, a program of the Arkansas Department of Health and made possible by the Arkansas Zoological Foundation along with other key sponsors such as AY Media Group, the Little Rock Visitors and Conventions Bureau, Hiland Dairy, Entergy, Wright, Lindsey & Jennings, Murphy Oil Foundation, Stoneburg Family Trust, Jim and Patti Womble, Mickey Drennan, Partners Bank, Simmons Bank Private Wealth, Brad and Melissa Sims, OurBlood Institute, InVeritas, Mitchell Williams, Allegra and Image 360, Jaime Singh and Jason Paris, and Natural State Private Wealth Group. 

Tickets

Tickets can be purchased in advance at LittleRockZoo.com or the gate. Admission is $22 per person, and children two and under are admitted free. Zoo members pay $19, and a family four-pack is $68 for non-members and $60 for members. Guests with SNAP cards and a valid matching photo ID can purchase up to six admissions for $5 only at the gate.

Dates

GloWILD runs through January 5, 2025. The event is open for 45 nights. For a full list of event nights, see LittleRockZoo.com.

About the Zoo

The Little Rock Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you and a better future for all living things. With its more than 200 accredited members, AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation and your link to helping animals in their native habitats. For more information, visit aza.org. For more information on Little Rock Zoo, visit littlerockzoo.com.

LITTLE ROCK (October 28, 2024) – The Little Rock Zoo is sad to announce that Sophie the elephant has passed. She was placed to rest through humane euthanasia earlier this morning. The Zoo will be closed to guests today to perform a necropsy.

The Zoo announced earlier this year that the 56-year-old elephant was placed into hospice from complications associated with a chronic pyometra disease. Sophie was first diagnosed with pyometra more than seven years ago. Most elephants survive less than a year with this condition. Zoo staff were able to manage the progression of the disease and provide prolonged care for Sophie for what is considered a medical miracle in elephant veterinary medicine. The disease which infects the uterus, is non-operable in elephants and is incurable.

In the early weeks of summer, Zoo staff observed that swelling had developed along Sophie’s belly, likely because of the progression of the disease. Blood protein levels taken from Sophie were lower than normal, also indicating disease progression. Sophie had lost significant muscle mass from muscle wasting created from fighting a chronic illness.

Zoo staff evaluated Sophie daily for quality of life and let her guide the way on next steps. Two full-time veterinarians were on-call every day of the week to attend to Sophie and the disease was managed as best as possible with pain medications and antibiotics.

Sophie and her companion, Babe, came to the Little Rock Zoo in 2013 from the Niabi Zoo to join Zina. All three elephant residents are retired from the circus, are of advanced age and require specialized geriatric care. The Little Rock Zoo has long been recognized for its expertise in caring for geriatric elephants.

Sophie’s estimated age is 55 to 56. At this age she has outlived most of her counterparts living in accredited Zoos. The mean life expectancy for a female Asian elephant is 47 years old. Babe is 49 and Zina turned 64 this year.

Sophie holds a special place in the hearts and minds of Arkansans and will be deeply missed by Zoo staff and by the community as a whole. 

Donations in Sophie’s memory can be made to the Arkansas Zoological Foundation, a collective donation will be made in her honor to Asian Elephant Support, a non-profit dedicated to supporting the care and conservation of Asian Elephants throughout their natural range.

The Little Rock Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).  Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you and a better future for all living things.  With its more than 200 accredited members, AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation and your link to helping animals in their native habitats.  For more information, visit www.aza.org.

MEDIA ADVISORY

INTERVIEW/PHOTO OPPORTUNITY

September 9, 2024

Who: Little Rock Zoo Director Susan Altrui, Mayor Frank Scott, Jr. Vice Mayor Kathy Webb, Former Chair of Friends of the Carousel David Martinous and Ashely Sides with the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program.

What: Celebration of the Over-the-Jumps, the Arkansas Carousel Centennial at the Little Rock Zoo with a special presentation and plaque dedication

Where: Civitan Amphitheater and the Over-the-Jumps Carousel

When: 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, September 10, 2024

Visuals: Renovation of carousel horses, centennial plaque placement

Background: The Arkansas Carousel, Over-the-Jumps, is the only fully operational carousel of its kind in the world. Constructed by the Spillman Engineering Company of North Tonawanda, New York, during the golden age of American carousels (1887-1935), the Over-the-Jumps Carousel first graced Arkansas at the 1924 Arkansas State Fair. It’s the last known “over the jumps” carousel in existence, with its unique undulating track that creates a mesmerizing ride experience—one of only four ever built. Unlike standard carousels, where horses are attached to poles that move vertically, the horses on this carousel move up and down with the track itself.

In 1942, Little Rock resident Tom Fuzzell saved the carousel from destruction by purchasing it. The carousel was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1991. State Senator Mike Kinard, Governor Bill Clinton and the Friends of the Carousel raised the necessary funds to purchase and restore the attraction and after many years of dedicated efforts, the Friends of the Carousel donated the Over-the-Jumps Carousel to the Little Rock Zoo in October 2007, securing its place in Arkansas history.

Expert restorer Becky Witsell meticulously led the restoration of the carousel. A key partner in the ongoing preservation of this American treasure is the Little Rock Repair Shop, whose skilled artisans contribute to the maintenance and restoration efforts. To learn more about their crucial role in this project, explore their 2024 blog series on the restoration process here.