Explore the Shore

Sven, the Arctic fox, has returned to exploring his habitat in the Arctic Tundra area of the zoo, now accompanied by a new female companion! One-year-old Freya joined Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in late spring. While construction was underway in their area, Sven and Freya have been acquainting themselves behind the scenes. According to keepers, Freya is a curious fox who enjoys exploring her new home and interacting with enrichment items. “She’s very fast, intelligent, and attentive during training…

Meet Pepper, a one-month-old sea lion pup at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. Adoring fans voted online for her name, chosen from a slate of four names offered by keepers at the Tacoma zoo.  Out of more than 10,500 votes, Pepper was a clear winner, with 31% of the vote, and the runner-ups were Rosa (26%), Nori (23%), and Marnie (20%). Why Pepper? Keepers say that despite fighting off a respiratory infection shortly after birth, she was strong and…

The Tropical Reef Aquarium at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium reopened in June after extensive restoration and repair of critical animal-care structures, habitats, and life support systems. The 15,000-square-foot aquarium, previously known as the South Pacific Aquarium, is an oasis of warm-water marine beauty, with vibrant, tropical fish and new shark additions in a refreshed space. The $7.09 million aquarium renovation is funded by the zoo’s operating budget and bonds approved by Tacoma voters in 2014. The aquarium first opened…