Zoo Tampa Baby Boom Cuteness Overload
Zoo Tampa baby boom cuteness overload. Spring has sprung, and with it comes an adorable surprise at ZooTampa at Lowry Park. A baby boom of epic proportions has taken over the zoo, and the cuteness level is off the charts! From colorful birds to antelopes and critically endangered red wolves, the new arrivals are a sight to behold.
The zoo has welcomed two lorikeet chicks, two species of antelope, and a litter of red wolf pups. These new additions are not just for show; they are part of the zoo’s conservation efforts. The red wolf pups, in particular, are a significant achievement for the zoo. These pups are among the world’s most endangered canids, and fewer than 20 remain in the wild.
There are other exciting new arrivals at the zoo. A new Nyala antelope, native to southern Africa, was born on March 13, and the zoo named him Finn. Nyala females and young males are known for their striking white stripes. Another antelope, the bay duiker, was also born on March 14. The shy and reserved antelope will take cover from predators by diving behind nearby plants, which is why it’s called a duiker, meaning “dive” in the African language.
And let’s not forget the two lorikeet chicks that hatched on March 25 and 27. These colorful birds are native to southeastern Australia and live in low woodlands, especially in areas with flowering trees. Unlike other parrot species, lorikeets will initially grow brightly colored feathers, making them one of the most colorful and charismatic birds in the world.
ZooTampa’s new arrivals are not just a treat for visitors; they are also a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts. And let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good animal baby boom? It’s the perfect excuse to visit the zoo and see these adorable new arrivals up close. TBT
What ZooTampa Could Look Like After Their $125 Million Expansion
Manatee Rescue
Photo courtesy of ZooTampa
As we mentioned earlier, one of the first projects to be completed in this transformation is the David A. Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center. The new Manatee Rescue (opening January 2026) will be an innovative multi-dimensional environment that will immerse guests in the manatee’s world. With this new makeover, guests will be able to see the life-saving work taking place every day to save these gentle sea cows in real time.
Manatee Rescue will also feature a new interactive habitat, Stingray Shores (opening Fall 2023). Guests will have a chance to touch and feed stingrays while they swim carefree. More adventurous visitors can even wade into the water for a rare up-close-and-personal encounter!
Photo courtesy of ZooTampa
South America Realm
Photo courtesy of ZooTampa
This could be the most exciting news… In collaboration with the City of Tampa, the Zoo is developing plans to expand to the Hillsborough River. Guests will encounter multiple South American species including sea lions, giant river otters, jaguars, and a variety of other rarely seen wildlife. The expansion will also offer a new way of getting to the Zoo itself – via water taxis!
This riverfront expansion will also feature new retail, entertainment, dining and green spaces!
Photo courtesy of ZooTampa
Africa Realm
Photo courtesy of ZooTampa
The reimaged Africa realm will take Zoo guests to all new heights. At ground level, guests will see red river hogs in their natural environment. A higher climb will bring them side-by-side with mighty gorillas. Go even higher in the tree tops to safely be face-to-face with the playful primates. The expanded habitat will also allow guests to see other species such as African elephants and Masai giraffes. And the best part of all- there will be a unique opportunity for guests to sleep within the roar of the king of the jungle.
Photo courtesy of ZooTampa
Asia Realm
Photo courtesy of ZooTampa
After its transformation, the Asia realm will immerse guests with overhead paths that provides unforgettable and safe ways to connect with wildlife such as Bornean orangutans and Malayan tigers.
