Cincinnati Zoo Tales

Celebrating 150 Years of the Cincinnati Zoo with Director Thane Maynard

In this episode of Cincinnati Zoo Tales, we celebrate 150 years of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden with Director Thane Maynard. Thane reflects on the Zoo’s incredible journey since its founding in 1875, sharing fascinating stories from the past and highlighting how far the Zoo has come. From its earliest days as one of the nation’s first zoos to today’s role as a leader in animal care, conservation, and sustainability, listeners will get an inside look at the milestones, challenges, and inspiring transformations that shaped the Zoo’s legacy.

Reigning Reptile: Introducing Alex the King Cobra

 

Meet Alex, the new king of the Reptile House! In this episode of Cincinnati Zoo Tales, we introduce Alex the king cobra, the Zoo’s newest and most fascinating arrival. His keeper, Jenna, joins us to share what it’s like caring for the world’s longest venomous snake, from training and safety to Alex’s personality.

 

Updates from Hippo Cove

Dive into the latest updates from Hippo Cove with hosts Jenna and Mark! 🦛 This episode covers everything from Fritz’s future and training milestones to how Fiona is doing. Hear behind-the-scenes stories, fun hippo facts, and insider updates straight from the team who cares for them every day. Whether you’ve followed Fiona from the start or just met the newest member of the bloat, this episode is packed with splashes of joy and fascinating hippo news you won’t want to miss! 

EEHV Breakthrough: A Win for Cincinnati’s Elephant Herd

In this episode, hosts Jenna and Mark sit down with Zoological Manager of Elephants, Christy Ison and Dr. Mike Wenninger, Director of Animal Health, to explore the groundbreaking progress Cincinnati Zoo has made in protecting its young Asian elephants from Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV).

This episode captures a hopeful turning point in elephant care: from daily keeper training to cutting-edge mRNA vaccine breakthroughs, Sanjay and Kabir’s recovery demonstrates what proactive veterinary science paired with strong keeper-elephant relationships can achieve. Christy and Dr. Mike’s insights offer both a moving behind‑the‑scenes story and a model for wildlife conservation worldwide.

Celebrating Disability Pride Month

In this inspiring episode of Cincinnati Zoo Tales, we’re celebrating Disability Pride Month with two incredible guests. Annie, the Zoo’s Accessibility Manager, shares how the Zoo is working to create a more inclusive experience for all guests and team members. We’re also joined by Druh, a certified master scuba diver who helps keep pools clean for animals like hippos, elephants, penguins, and otters, and who has Rubinstein Taybi Syndrome - a rare genetic disorder.  

Druh started as a Zoo volunteer educator. Today, Druh is not only an essential part of the dive team but also a world-ranked para-karate athlete — a second-degree black belt, a member of Team USA, and ranked 8th in the world in women’s para kata!

As Dru says: “Don’t assume someone can’t do something because they have a disability. Look for the ability hidden within the disability—give people a chance, and they just might surprise you.”

Keeper Andie Gives Positive Update on Kris the Cheetah

In this new episode of Cincinnati Zoo Tales, Kris the cheetah’s keeper, Andie, shares an exciting update on how the beloved cat is doing in her recovery. From her playful personality to recent health milestones, Kris continues to thrive—and steal hearts—at the Cincinnati Zoo. Tune in to hear behind-the-scenes stories, keeper insights, and why Kris remains one of the Zoo’s most inspiring animals.

Pregnancy Update: Gladys the Gorilla

In the newest episode of Cincinnati Zoo Tales, dedicated keepers Grace and Shaina offer an exciting update on Gladys the gorilla’s pregnancy. They share insights into her changing behavior, and how her care routine has been carefully tailored over the past few months to prepare for a new baby! It’s a heartwarming and educational episode that shows the care, anticipation, and joy surrounding this soon-to-be mother.

Steve Foltz, Director of Horticulture

Join Steve Foltz, Director of Horticulture at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, as he delves into the vibrant world of the Zoo's gardens in this enlightening episode of Cincinnati Zoo Tales. Steve shares insights into the meticulous planning behind the Zoo's stunning botanical displays, offering tips on the best annual plants to cultivate in your own garden. He also discusses the Zoo's community gardening initiatives, highlighting their role in promoting sustainability and conservation. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a budding enthusiast, this episode is brimming with inspiration and practical advice to help your garden flourish.

From Otter Pups to Siamangs: Behind the Scenes at Elephant Trek

In this episode of Cincinnati Zoo Tales, keepers Wendy and Carli share the behind-the-scenes excitement of opening the brand-new Elephant Trek habitat! Hear what it’s been like to welcome and care for incredible new species like the vibrant rhinoceros hornbills, playful Asian small-clawed otters, and energetic siamangs.

The keepers talk about the personalities of these fascinating animals, the process of introducing them to their new home, and the rewarding challenges of caring for them—especially four adorable Asian small-clawed otter pups! Whether you're an animal lover or curious about what goes into managing a complex, multi-species habitat, this episode is full of fun insights and heartfelt stories from the team that makes it all happen.

Celebrating 150 Years of the Cincinnati Zoo

In a special episode of the Cincinnati Zoo Tales podcast, the hosts celebrate the zoo's 150th anniversary by reflecting on its rich history and conservation milestones. They share behind-the-scenes stories, from the zoo's early days to its evolution into a world-renowned wildlife institution. The episode also highlights how the zoo continues to inspire future generations through education and animal care.