The red kangaroo, the largest marsupial in the world, is a favorite among zoo visitors. Known for their powerful legs and iconic hopping, they represent the vast, arid landscapes of Australia.
In one zoo, a red kangaroo named Rusty became a star attraction for his playful behavior. Rusty loved engaging with his keepers during enrichment activities, particularly when they hid treats like sweet potatoes and carrots in burlap sacks. Visitors often marveled at his high jumps, sometimes reaching over 2 meters, especially during the zoo’s “kangaroo talks.”
The Asiatic lion, a critically endangered subspecies, is smaller and shyer than its African relatives but no less majestic. With fewer than 700 left in the wild, these lions are carefully bred in zoos as part of global conservation efforts.
At one zoo, a lion named Sultan became the face of the Asiatic lion conservation program. Born to a mother rescued from poor conditions, Sultan was a symbol of hope. Visitors were captivated by his golden mane and deep, resonant roar, which echoed through the park.