Celebrate our Planet at EarthFest this Weekend

Thu Apr 16 14:01:35 PDT 2026

Become a Member (https://www.sfzoo.org/membership/)   |   Donate (https://www.sfzoo.org/donate-today/)    |   Get Tickets (https://www.sfzoo.org/?keyword=General%20Admission)
UPCOMING EVENTS
EarthFest Event This Weekend!
https://www.sfzoo.org/calendar/earthfest-2/
Come celebrate Earth Day during our EarthFest Weekend this Saturday and Sunday, April 18 & 19, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Visit our special guest organizations at the pop-up EarthFest village located at the Madagascar Center courtyard by the Leaping Lemur Café. Here, enjoy live entertainment by celebrated musicians Michael John Ahern (https://mjamusic.com/home#upcoming-performances) and Chris Cotruvo, and special information booths hosted by
The Marine Mammal Center (http://www.marinemammalcenter.org/) , U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (https://www.fws.gov/program/office-of-law-enforcement) , National Wildlife Federation (https://www.nwf.org/) , San Francisco Transit Riders (https://sftransitriders.org/donate/) , Safe Rides to School (https://www.sfsaferoutes.org/) , Recology (http://recology.com/) , Muskwa Club (https://www.muskwaclub.org/) , CPALI (https://www.cpali.org/) - Conservation Through Poverty Alleviation International, American Association of Zoo Keepers (https://aazk.org/) (AAZK), and various Zoo departments, including Horticulture, Conservation, Environmental Services, and SF Zoo Docents.

Bring your gently-used pet items (leashes, collars, toys, bowls, small accessories) for collection by PawSpace (https://pawspaceapp.com/) , whose app is a one-stop shop solution for all your pet parenting needs. We are also accepting old electronic devices, such as cell phones and tablets, for the Gorillas on the Line campaign to save gorillas in the wild.

We invite you to teach your children the importance of living sustainably and supporting animal conservation by interacting with professionals who are making a world of difference!
ANIMAL NEWS
New Home for Africa's Smallest Antelope Species

We recently welcomed our newest animal resident, a five-month-old female blue duiker! She came to us from our friends at Safari West, where she was born.

The blue duiker is the smallest species of duiker, which can reach up to 16 inches at the shoulder and can weigh between 3.5 to 9 kg/7.7 to 19 lbs. Living primarily in forests, blue duikers are a species of African antelope and are both shy and timid, staying hidden in the forests’ dense vegetation. Blue duikers are mostly solitary and difficult to spot.

You can find her in the African Aviary, where she is adjusting well with her avian neighbors.
Oldest Penguin Passes Away —  Leaves Lasting Legacy
We are deeply saddened to share the unexpected loss of Scout, our oldest female Magellanic penguin. In the wild, Magellanic penguins typically live 15-25 years, but Scout reached nearly 36 years of age, making her one of the oldest known Magellanic penguins in North America. Over the past week, she experienced a brief illness. Despite dedicated, intensive treatment from our animal care veterinary team, she passed away peacefully overnight with her longtime mate, Pepper, by her side.

Scout made an extraordinary contribution to AZA’s population of this Near Threatened species. Her legacy lives on through her remarkable family: 7 offspring, 20 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren. Preliminary findings indicate she passed from kidney disease, with final pathology results still pending. Scout will be dearly missed by our team and all who had the privilege of caring for her.
NEWS TO KNOW
Shutterbugs & Snappers!
https://www.sfzoo.org/photo-contest/
Help Bring Conservation to Life — Become a Zoo Docent!

Aspiring wildlife photographers, amateur and professional shooters, and animal lovers who happen to be at the right place at the right time with their smartphones, we've got the contest for you!

We've extended our contest until the end of May! Enter our
Spring Photo Contest (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1c8ufihsJ4YGbTfAWzAr7IXiforDaGFciuPAjtVJS6jY/edit?ts=69c42d59) , open to anyone who wants to submit (up to five) of their favorite photos of SF Zoo animals for consideration. Winners will be selected from several categories:
* Kids (12 and under)
* Youths (ages 13-17)
* Adults (18+)
* Zoo staff and Zoo volunteers and Docents may also enter in separate categories

At the end of the contest, our judging panel will select the top 3 in each category and the photos will be posted on our various social media channels and our website. Click the button below for contest rules and submission details.

Enter today! (https://www.sfzoo.org/photo-contest/)
Help Bring Conservation to Life—Become a Zoo Docent!
https://www.sfzoo.org/volunteer-programs-draft/docents/
Are you passionate about animals and conservation? Docents help guests discover the wonders of the natural world through storytelling, education, and action.

Become a Zoo Docent and be a part of a wonderful insider community, where you can enjoy the camaraderie of individuals passionate about wildlife, education, and sharing your knowledge about animals and the natural world.

Our next Docent Info Session will take place on Sunday, May 3 at 2 p.m. at the Lurie Education Center, located by the main Zoo entrance. Enjoy a fun presentation with plenty of time for questions. You'll also experience a Zoo tour guided by current Docents.

Space is limited—reserve your spot today! To RSVP: join at sfzoodocents.org (mailto:join at sfzoodocents.org) .

Learn More (https://www.sfzoo.org/volunteer-programs-draft/docents/)
Members Morning - May 2
Members! Join us on Saturday, May 2 when we open the doors early just for you! Members Morning is a time when Zoo Members can visit an hour early from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., before the general public arrives.

Beat the crowds, get optimal parking, and enjoy the early morning sights and sounds of our animal residents
—
especially those just waking up! Members Morning takes place the first Saturday of the month.
CAMPS & CLASSES
Register Now for Summer Zoo Camp!
https://www.sfzoo.org/conservation-camp/

Students in 3rd, 4th, 5th & 6th grade—we've got an exciting summer in store for you! Registration for Summer Zoo Camp (https://www.sfzoo.org/conservation-camp/)  is currently open for Pre-K through 6th grade, and we have plenty of slots available for our older elementary grades. As our most popular camp program, you won't want to miss out on an exciting summer!

Each week-long session offers kids wildlife-themed programs, featuring hands-on activities, learning opportunities, and outdoor fun to get your kids' creative juices flowing and open their eyes to the wonders of nature!

As Junior Zoologists and Conservation Rangers, your week-long (or two-week session) includes animal/habitat exploration and activities, learning about animals, their habitats and ecosystems, plus science and play! Campers are grouped by grade level and experience the Zoo in small groups.

See our website  (https://www.sfzoo.org/conservation-camp/) for regular Member Discounts and Codes.
Learn More (https://www.sfzoo.org/conservation-camp/)
Kick it at the Zoo! Free Soccer Classes on May 6!
https://tinyurl.com/SFZOOSSS

Calling all little explorers! To celebrate our upcoming Free Day for SF Residents on Wednesday, May 6, we are excited to partner with Super Soccer Stars for a morning of active, animal-themed fun!

Join us for free soccer classes designed specifically for children ages 1 to 5. These classes are entirely zoo and animal-themed, so your little ones will be running like cheetahs and jumping like kangaroos right here at the Zoo!

Schedule – Wednesday, May 6:
* 10:30 AM – 10:55 AM: 1–2 year olds
* 11:00 AM – 11:25 AM: 2–3 year olds
* 11:30 AM – 11:55 AM: 3–5 year olds

How to Join: Space is limited and pre-registration is required to secure your spot.

Bringing a friend last minute? If space allows, they will accept walk-ups on the day via a QR code at the check-in station. We can't wait to see you on the field!
Register Today! (https://tinyurl.com/SFZOOSSS)
SUPPORT
Become a Monthly Champion for Wildlife
https://fundraise.givesmart.com/e/f7dF3g?vid=1pwv5y

Introducing the Wildlife Collective, a new, recurring giving program to support San Francisco Zoo & Gardens!

When you join Wildlife Collective, your monthly gift provides steady, reliable support for the Zoo’s animal residents, important conservation programs, and the work of our dedicated care teams.

Instead of a one-time gift, your automatic monthly contribution ensures animals receive exceptional care every single day.

Monthly giving is one of the most powerful ways to support wildlife conservation. It’s easy, flexible, and makes a lasting impact.

Your Monthly Impact
* $25 per month – Wildlife Care Partner

Helps provide fresh, quality produce, specialized diets, and veterinary supplies that keep animals healthy and thriving.
* $50 per month – Habitat Protector

Supports habitat maintenance and ongoing improvements so animals live in environments designed for their comfort and welfare.
* $100 per month – Conservation Champion

Helps fund critical conservation, education and animal wellness programs that support wildlife both at the zoo and in the wild.

Join the Wildlife Collective today and become part of a passionate community dedicated to protecting animals and the natural world – every month of the year.

Become a Monthly Donor (https://fundraise.givesmart.com/e/f7dF3g?vid=1pwv5y)
Celebrate Mom with a Gift from the Wild
https://www.sfzoo.org/adopt-an-animal/

Looking for a Mother’s Day gift that is meaningful, memorable, and makes a difference? This year, celebrate the mothers and special people in your life with an Adopt-An-Animal gift from the Zoo. Instead of flowers that fade or a box of chocolates, give a unique experience that supports the care and conservation of extraordinary wildlife.

With an animal adoption, your loved one can symbolically adopt one of the Zoo’s most beloved residents—choose from a playful penguin, a charming red panda, or a powerful gorilla.

We offer a choice of 14 animals in our Adopt-an-Animal collection. Each adoption helps provide the food, enrichment, veterinary care, and habitat support that keep these amazing animals healthy and thriving.

Animal adoptions are a wonderful way to honor someone special while also supporting wildlife conservation and education. Your gift celebrates the compassion and care that mothers show every day while helping protect animals for future generations to enjoy.

Make this Mother’s Day unforgettable. Adopt an animal in her honor and give a gift that shows love for both family and the wild world we share.

Order your Adopt-An-Animal gift today. Place your order no later than FRIDAY, May 1, 2026 to arrive in time for Mother’s Day.
Adopt-An-Animal (https://www.sfzoo.org/adopt-an-animal/)
https://san-francisco-zoo-gardens.app.attractions.io/
San Francisco Zoo & Gardens connects all people with wildlife, inspires caring for nature and advances conservation action.

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