Although construction on the Lion House was not complete until 1930, there were lions at Potter Park Zoo as early as 1924 according to Lansing State Journal articles at the time. These cats have been a familiar sight over the years, residing at Potter Park in each subsequent decade after their arrival. Some of the […]
Fuzz is an Aldabra tortoise who joined Potter Park in the 1970’s and remained at the zoo for 29 years. His purchase was facilitated by a $500 donation to the Friends of the Zoo Society, which was gifted on behalf of the Fraternal Order of Police. Due to their generosity, the FOP was given naming rights, […]
Elk at Potter Park During the 2020 centennial year, elk returned to Potter Park. As one of the zoo’s first notable species, the elk is a wonderful symbol of Potter Park’s growth and success, and we’re happy to have them back. In 1918 and 1919, Potter Park was still in its early stages, with a […]
The Potter Park Zoo team is preparing to say farewell to one of its well-known animal residents. Liya the female Amur tiger is heading to another zoo following a breeding recommendation from the Amur Tiger Species Survival Program (SSP). The SSP program, managed by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), strives to maintain healthy, […]
Jaali, Potter Park Zoo’s first black rhino calf in its 100-year history, turns one on December 24, 2020! Celebrating Jaali the black rhino’s first birthday means so much to the Potter Park Zoo team, who worked diligently since 2018 to prepare for Doppsee’s first calf. Jaali’s mother Doppsee and father Phineus were first introduced more […]
You’re invited! What: Paint with Us: Jaali the black rhino calf fundraiser When: Saturday, January 23, 2021 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. (EST) Where: Virtual Live Zoom Event! Come paint with us and wish Jaali a happy 1st birthday! Are you a Jaali super fan? Love creating art? Or simply want to have fun night […]
It’s not always easy to find that perfect gift for the animal lover in your life. We’ve compiled the ultimate Potter Park Zoo gift guide with tons of options that range from plush toys to a behind the scenes experience with the big cats at the zoo! Gifts That Keep on Giving Potter Park Zoo […]
Mya the binturong was a popular ambassador animal born at Potter Park Zoo and used in education programs at the zoo and in the community. Teamed with her handler, this unique animal provided engaging learning experiences and raised the awareness of her unusual and fascinating species. Many visitors have never seen or even heard […]
On behalf of the Potter Park Zoo staff, animals and volunteers, we would like to begin by saying thank you for your continuous support! After an extraordinarily challenging 2020, the zoo is excited to be starting down a new path that will allow us to offer an enhanced educational experience for every guest. We believe […]
The farmyard has been a popular stop at the zoo and a link to encounter experiences over the years, offering visitors, especially children, closer contact with animals. These opportunities have come in different spaces in different locations around the zoo. Here is the story of how they all came together. Big Barn It […]