The Oscars, the Emmys, the Heisman, Employee of the Year; there are lots of awards out there and now there’s one that recognizes the Zoo Boise animals! The animal residents at Zoo Boise do so much to help their counterparts in the wild and it’s time we honor them for the work they’re doing! We are excited to announce that we are teaming up with U.S. Bank and zoo guests like you to name this year’s Zoo Boise Animal of the Year.
We will nominate an animal each season and at the end of the year Zoo Boise guests will vote on which animal will win U.S. Bank Animal of the Year! Zoo Boise animals were nominated for various reasons: being an ambassador for their species, helping to raise conservation dollars, inspiring the next generation of animal protectors, participation in a Species Survival Plan, and being a vital part of their zoo family!
We’re excited to announce that the U.S. Bank Animal of Summer is red panda, Dolly! She is a vital part of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums Species Survival Plan (SSP), one of the Association of Zoos & Aquarium’s many conservation programs. Its primary role is to serve as a breeding program for select endangered or threatened species – a special animal dating service, if you will. The goal is to maintain a healthy and genetically diverse population for these animals in order to increase their numbers and be able to reintroduce certain zoo-bred animals into their natural habitats, if necessary.
Dolly has had six litters since joining the SSP program at Zoo Boise. Dolly is currently paired with Spud and her most recent litter was twins, a female and a male, born on June 19, 2019. Dolly has become one of the most important pieces to the Red Panda SSP, ensuring a stable captive population for generations to come.
Here are some quotes about Dolly and why you might want to vote for her for U.S. Bank Animal of the Year:
Dr. Holly Holman, Zoo Boise Veterinarian – “Dolly is spunky, smart, and a great mother. She is a great ambassador for her species.”
Lead Zookeeper Sherry – “Dolly has been an extraordinary ambassador for her species. She has raised many cubs over the years that have went to other zoos across the country to continue her legacy. She is an important and fun member of the Zoo Boise family.”
Be on the lookout for our next nomination in the fall and for your chance to vote on the U.S. Bank Animal of the Year. Once again, it’s because of guests like you, sponsors like U.S. Bank, and the amazing zoo animals that Zoo Boise has become a leader in supporting wildlife conservation. #CommunityPossible
