A reply to my comment on social media confirming the passing of elderly female Tasmanian Devil, Luna: "Luna lived to a great age for a Tasmanian devil. She was 7 years old which is in the upper range for her species (Tasmanian devils in the wild can live up to 5-6 years if they are disease-free and in a Zoo environment they can live up to 7-8 years). As a geriatric animal, our keepers and veterinary team were closely monitoring her condition to ensure she remained in optimal welfare, and the difficult yet right decision was made in February to euthanise her due to deteriorating health conditions. We are looking to welcome more Tasmanian devils to Auckland Zoo in future as part of our advocacy efforts for this stunning species."
Piece of March 2024 News Not Mentioned: On March 7th, it was announced that the zoo transferred a (0.1) plains zebra named Eve to the Orana Wildlife Park in Christchurch. Orana Wildlife Park ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- On April 7th, the zoo announced they built a new disability-accessible bathroom which is located just outside the admin building (right to the entrance). Auckland Zoo
Christine Tintinger is retiring: Christine Tintinger is retiring after an incredible 44 years of service to Auckland Zoo. I had the privilege of talking to Christine on a number of my visits and her knowledge and enthusiasm for the primates she worked with was second to none. Many will know Christine through The Zoo TV series she was an integral part of. Primates were her passion and it was clear she had a particularly close bond with chimpanzee Janie; as well as the orangutans. Click on the link for some fantastic photos, including one of her with one of the zoo’s newborn hippopotamus calves. Christine calls time on 44-year dream job | Auckland Zoo News
Christine is amazing! I've talked to her several times and she really knows and loves the animals so deeply, and has worked tirelessly for the zoo for so many years. She's been working with male orangutan Charlie since he first arrived at Auckland Zoo, and I am sure she will continue to be involved with him, his family and the zoo in general even after she has retired! I was honoured to have her sign my copy of the zoo's centenary book also!
There’s a great photo of her sitting besides Indra in The Zoo: This is Your Life doco. It was taken shortly after Indra arrived in 1983 and apparently had free contact with the keepers. She was only aged three at the time, which today would be considered young to be separated from her mother; but common in those days. It no doubt contributed to Indra’s attitude towards people. She had the social aptitude of any other member of her species, but had a strong affinity for people. I remember interacting with her up close at the glass as a kid.
I will have to see if I can find that photo! I do remember Indra used to sit by the window a lot, with her infant who I think must have been Isim. Staff members have told me that Indra used to be interested in what people had in their bags or were carrying, similar to Amber of Louisville Zoo.
Burma to leave October/November 2024: https://www.instagram.com/p/C6FlCHRqGiL/?igsh=MTR4dzRueXEyZmN1bg==
