TUCSON, AZ (April 24, 2024) -- The Reid Park Zoo in Tucson has named its new African elephant calf 'Meru' and is starting construction on the Pathway to Asia project this week. The name was chosen through a community poll, with over 19,000 votes cast. It was inspired by Mount Meru in Tanzania, reflecting the calf's status as the fifth member of the zoo's herd. Adam Ramsey, the zoo's Director of Animal Care, has expressed his team's approval of the name.
The Pathway to Asia project will be a significant addition to the zoo since Expedition Tanzania in 2012. It will expand the zoo by 4.5 acres and introduce new animals such as red pandas, Komodo dragons, sand cats, and tigers. The expansion will also establish the zoo as a conservation and breeding center for tigers, reintroducing them to Tucson.
The Pathway to Asia project will be built on the zoo's old parking lot and is expected to take two years to complete. It is funded by a voter-approved sales tax initiative 2017 for zoo improvements. The expansion will enable visitors to explore Asia's ecological diversity and learn about conservation efforts for endangered species.
The project will include a reptile house, an interactive aviary, and an indoor event pavilion for 250 guests. The pavilion will provide views into several animal habitats. Each habitat in the Pathway to Asia is carefully planned to meet the needs of its animal residents.
Nancy Kluge, Reid Park Zoo President & CEO, stated that the project will enhance the zoo as a learning and discovery center. She thanked Tucson voters and private donors for their support, noting that their contributions are helping to improve the zoo.
The new zoo parking lot will be accessible from Lakeshore Lane and Randolph Way. The entrance is next to Hi Corbett Field and can be accessed from either Randolph Way or Lakeshore.
Zoo visitors usually see Meru in the mornings, although her schedule can change based on the elephants' needs. The calf can also be viewed online through the Zoo Cams. Meru is described as energetic, curious, and playful, often seen climbing over logs.
Visitors to the zoo indirectly contribute to elephant conservation. Reid Park Zoo supports the Tarangire Conservation Research Program, which has conserved large areas of elephant habitat in Africa, providing safe passages for the animals.
Reid Park Zoo also participates in the African elephant Species Survival Plan and contributes to global elephant care research. The zoo studies and mitigates the elephant virus known as EEHV. Adding Meru to the zoo's herd underscores its commitment to elephant conservation and research.