Summer was a long time coming, but we had lots of “sunnerifical” days in July, and I hope you are able to enjoy lots of camping, glamping and Saskatoon Zoo tramping in the days ahead. With all the trees, benches and picnic tables there are lots of places to rest and get some shade.
You have probably already heard, but the happy news must be repeated. A baby was born at the Zoo! When you visit, say helloooo to the newest caribou! (I need to stop this rhyming thing.) Mother Mira gave birth to a boy on June 25th. The calf’s name is Lyall Petrie in honour of Dr. Lyall Petrie, who began working at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in 1985. He died earlier this year.
A news release from the City of Saskatoon says Mira and Lyall are gradually exploring their habitat, but visibility may vary from day to day to prioritize the health, comfort and routine of both of them.
They weren’t out the day I was there, so instead I have pictures of the beauty of Saskatoon’s Zoo. The fountain is a view from the pier, which was built with help from your donations to the Saskatoon Zoo Foundation. The second picture is one of the Zoo Pollinator Gardens. Along with its scenic value, it’s also one of the opportunities for businesses and supporters to become sponsors, as you can see by the sign. If you would like to donate to the Saskatoon Zoo Foundation, click here: Donate – Saskatoon Zoo Foundation
The beauty continues with this prairie dog kiss. I expected this would be more like one of them sniffing the other to smell what they have been eating, but it really is more like a kiss. I looked it up! Prairie dogs “kiss” as a form of greeting. They touch their noses and sometimes knock their teeth together to identify family and friends by scent and to reinforce social bonds.
Cuteness abounds at the Zoo. I caught two of its residents splooting. One is a prairie dog and the other is a meerkat.
Something I don’t think I have seen before at the Zoo is giant cat scratchers. I noticed them in a few of the habitats. Such a great idea! I have also included a goose picture, because you may have noticed they aren’t as active as they are in the spring, so you won’t necessarily see them flying around as much. That’s because geese molt. All waterfowl do. I just learned this. I had no idea! Some birds can still fly when their primary feathers are falling out, but Canada geese can’t. They will grow new, strong feathers in time for migration in the fall. Now, with all this knowledge under your wing, I hope you will enjoy your next visit to the Saskatoon Zoo, and if you can, please support the Saskatoon Zoo Foundation.
Your Saskatoon Zoo Foundation blogger,
Carol Thomson
