Zoo Opens Zebra Habitat

The Grevy's zebra is the largest species of zebra, and it is now on display in a newly renovated habitat at the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens.

The exhibit is a renovation of a paddock that was originally built in 1966.

The zoo staff added several new features to the exhibit to improve it for the animals and zoo visitors. Improvements include sand for the animals to roll around in and the planting of native African vegetation, including acacia trees.

In addition, the moat was filled in, expanding the living space for the zebras while changing the topography so that the animals can be viewed at eye-level by zoo visitors. Several fences were replaced to improve the views for small children and those in strollers. New graphics were also installed with educational information about Grevy's zebras.

Grevy's zebras have a larger frame, thinner striping patterns than plains and mountain zebras, as well as giant round ears and a white belly. They are native to the deserts of northern Kenya and Ethipia.

This is the first time since 1994 that the Los Angeles Zoo has exhibited this endangered species. The Grevy's zebra population is rapidly declinng with less than 3,500 in existence today. The loss of more than 15,000 Grevy's zebras since 1970 from habitat degradation and poachers had led to their endangered status.

The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is located in Griffith Park at the junction of the Ventura (134) and Golden State (5) freeways. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 2- to 13-years of age. The zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. For general information, cal (323) 644-4200 or visit the website at www.lazoo.org.