Each day at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute presents a fresh and exciting experience.

This year has been filled with remarkable and uplifting tales about both the animals and the dedicated individuals who care for them. Let’s take a moment to reflect on some of the extraordinary events from this year.

It’s not an everyday occurrence for Zoo visitors to encounter a diminutive, venomous creature. In fact, it’s even more unusual to spot a pair of them. 

This year, a duo of pygmy slow lorises—the only venomous primates in the world—were born to parents Naga and Pabu at the Zoo’s Small Mammal House. Their arrival is a significant boost for this endangered species, which faces severe threats from wildlife trafficking and habitat destruction.

Inside a Remarkable and Life-Saving Cheetah Surgery

A cheetah’s spine should never form a C-shape. When keepers noticed a bulge on nine-month-old cub Freya’s spine during a routine check-up, Dr. Kristina Delaski and her team recognized they had limited time to intervene. 

Discover how an array of veterinary specialists utilized 3D modeling technology to provide Freya with a new lease on life at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute earlier this year.

A Baby Boom at the Bird House

Did you know that the Bird House is the sole location worldwide to successfully hatch the common yellowthroat?

This fact is indeed true, but there’s even more to celebrate. In total, 27 chicks across nine different species hatched at the Zoo this year. Alarmingly, the North American bird population has plummeted nearly 30% since 1970, prompting Smithsonian animal keepers and scientists to work together to decipher breeding patterns among songbirds and waterfowl before it’s too late to intervene.

Staff Unite for an Abandoned Baby Monkey

Shortly after giving birth, Edgar’s mother rejected him. This can occur both in the wild and in zoos; unfortunately, some mothers may lack the instincts needed to nurture their young. 

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Curator of Primates Becky Malinsky mobilized the staff to provide Edgar with the necessary care. Read the inspiring account of how the team rallied around him, and today, Edgar is thriving among the rest of the Allen’s swamp monkey troop at the Zoo’s Think Tank exhibit.

Feeding the Zoo’s Insectivorous Animals

Insects are not only nutritious but also cost-effective and constantly in demand. Take an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how commissary staff prepare and deliver thousands of these crunchy critters to the insect-eating residents of the Smithsonian’s National Zoo.

Providing Care for Animals with Special Needs

Every animal at the Zoo receives individualized attention. However, some require additional support to maintain their health and well-being. 

Join the keepers at the Small Mammal House and American Trail as they tend to rescued animals like Basil the opossum, Acadia the eagle, and Jo-Jo the seal.

New Giant Pandas Arrive at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo

The Smithsonian’s National Zoo has once again welcomed giant pandas. After bidding a heartfelt farewell to Tian Tian, Mei Xiang, and Qiao Qi Ji last fall, keepers proudly introduced a new pair from China on October 15. 

The two 3-year-old pandas, Bao Li and Qing Bao, are currently getting accustomed to their new environment and are set to make their public debut on January 24, 2025.