Tuesday, October 15
Shadow

Tag: Birds

NC Zoo | Desert Dome Welcomes Pair of Rare African Birds

NC Zoo | Desert Dome Welcomes Pair of Rare African Birds

NC Zoo
[Scott Pelkey | North State Journal] ASHEBORO N.C. – The Desert Dome at the North Carolina Zoo recently became the new home to a pair of rare African birds. Several months ago, two Von der Decken's Hornbills arrived at the North Carolina Zoo. Jake, the male, who came from the Los Angeles Zoo, and Zuri, the female, who came from the Rosamond Gifford Zoo in New York. After spending around a month in quarantine, a standard precaution, the pair were introduced to each other and now reside together in the Desert Dome. Von der Decken's Hornbills (Tockus deckeni) are a distinctive species of birds found in the arid regions of East Africa, particularly in Somalia, Kenya, and Tanzania. The birds distinguishing feature, is its large bill, also called a horn.  “For them it's a too...
North Carolina Zoo Announces the Permanent Closure of its Aviary Habitat

North Carolina Zoo Announces the Permanent Closure of its Aviary Habitat

NC Zoo
ASHEBORO, N.C. (NC ZOO)– Today, the North Carolina Zoo announces the permanent closure of its Aviary Habitat. Built in the early 1980s, the 40-year-old domed structure requires significant repairs due to the effects of high humidity and wet conditions. The difficult decision to close and take down the habitat has been made by Zoo leadership and the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. "For 40 years, the Zoo's Aviary offered a special place to connect with nature," said North Carolina Zoo's Director Pat Simmons. "The free-flying birds and tropical plants served as an oasis for many people - guests and staff alike. It was a heart-wrenching decision to close the Aviary; however, safety is our highest priority.” There are 93 birds of 33 species that are in the process ...