Smithsonian's National Zoo

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May. 28, 2023

Western Lowland Gorilla Born at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

For the first time in five years, primate staff are celebrating the birth of a western lowland gorilla—a critically endangered species. It was born between midnight and 6:15 a.m. May 27 to mother Calaya and father Baraka.

May. 24, 2023

Meerkats Are Born at Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

For the first time in 16 years, Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) in Washington, D.C., is celebrating the birth of three meerkats.

May. 22, 2023

The Science Behind Giant Panda Veterinary Care

How do you train a panda to voluntarily participate in blood draws and other medical exams? By building the bears’ trust and rewarding their participation with treats! Using operant conditioning, our animal care team can conduct check-ups without...

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