NORFOLK, Va. — The Virginia Zoo is excited to share that they have welcomed a new species to the Zoo, African painted dogs! The Zoo has brought in one male and one female based on a recommendation from the African Painted Dog Species Survival Plan (SSP). The goal of the SSP Program is to maintain a genetically diverse, demographically varied, and biologically sound population of a species in human care. This program involves managing each individual of a species in AZA-accredited facilities and providing recommendations for their breeding and transfer that align with the goal of the Species Survival Plan.
The two African painted dogs, Sassy (7F) and Pollock (7M), are a companion pair that have aged out of breeding. When an animal is no longer recommended for breeding in the SSP, they may move to another zoo with room for them to thrive indefinitely. Sassy and Pollock can be found at the Zoo on the Asia: Trail of the Tiger in the former sun bear habitat.
In addition to providing a new home for this endangered species, the Virginia Zoo's conservation round-up program will be fundraising for African painted dogs. This program allows guests of the Zoo to round up every purchase made in the Gift Shop and food service locations to the nearest dollar in support of wildlife conservation. Together, these small donations can make a huge impact on endangered species like African painted dogs.
As the dogs acclimate to their new surroundings over the next few days, the hours they are visible in their outdoor habitat may vary.
The Zoo is delighted to provide these African painted dogs with a new home and share their important conservation messaging with the community. They hope everyone will eagerly welcome this new addition to the Virginia Zoo and visit soon!
About African Painted Dogs: African painted dogs (also referred to as African wild dogs) are found in isolated populations throughout Sub-Saharan Africa. This species is Africa's second most endangered carnivore with pack sizes averaging 10 individuals compared to the historic 100+. African painted dogs are listed as Endangered by the IUCN Red List with their most prevalent threats being habitat destruction, pollution, poaching, and the pet trade.
About the Virginia Zoo: The Virginia Zoo, located in Norfolk, Virginia, is home to more than 700 animals representing over 175 species. Founded in 1901 and residing on 53 beautifully landscaped acres, for 125 years the Virginia Zoo has demonstrated a commitment to saving and protecting the world's wildlife by inspiring a passion for nature and taking conservation action at home and around the world. The Virginia Zoo is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is recognized as a global leader in education, recreation, science, wildlife conservation, and animal care and wellbeing. For more than a century, the Zoo has connected adults, families, and school children with the natural world by honoring its mission of commitment to engaging our community in taking action to save the world's wildlife and their ecosystems. To learn more, visit virginiazoo.org.
