SASKATOON — A quintet of zebras seeking a new home has found refuge at the Saskatoon Forestry Farm & Zoo, becoming the latest additions to this family-oriented establishment's ever-expanding roster of attractions.
Earlier this week, the zoo welcomed five zebras needing permanent residence. Last week, the butterfly and mammal houses were opened to the public, and construction will soon commence on a new habitat for two grizzly bears — Mistaya and Koda — made possible by a generous $1 million donation from Jerry and Tina Grandey.
Zoo Manager Jeff Mitchell expressed his enthusiasm for the arrival of the zebras, explaining that provincial authorities had informed them of the animals' need for a stable and lasting home. The zoo's staff will closely monitor the herd as they acclimate to their new surroundings.
"As the sole facility in Saskatchewan accredited by Canada's Accredited Zoos and Aquariums, we were confident that we possessed the space, skills, and expertise to create a secure environment for these remarkable creatures," Mitchell said.
"Our utmost concern is these extraordinary animals' comfort, health, safety, and overall well-being. Initially, we expect the zebras to remain near the barn for several weeks before venturing out to explore the wider expanse of their new habitat."
The zebras have taken up residence in one of the three caribou habitats at the zoo, including a well-insulated barn offering warmth and a spacious outdoor area with access to a pond for grazing and exploration.
Zebras, renowned for their distinctive black-and-white striped coats, can be found in diverse habitats, including savannas, grasslands, woodlands, shrublands, and mountainous regions of eastern and southern Africa.
A group of zebras is called a "dazzle," while collectively, they are known as a "zeal." In Africa, the term commonly used to describe a group of zebras is a "herd."
