Training Swarna for Tooth Radiographs
When Asian elephant Swarna needed her teeth examined, animal keepers Rebecca Riley and Becca Spickler tried something that had never been done at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo before. Over two months, they trained the 44-year-old elephant to voluntarily participate in dental radiographs! Get the scoop on this breakthrough in our keeper Q&A.
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A Snow Day at the Zoo
Several inches of snowfall kept the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute closed to visitors, but the animals and their caretakers still had a good time!
Helping Giant Pandas Feel at Home
A few weeks after their arrival, staff are helping giant pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao settle into their new home at Asia Trail.
Elderly Asian Elephant Dies
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute community is mourning the loss of Kamala, beloved member of its Asian elephant herd and ambassador for her species.