We are proud to announce that Topeka Zoo is the recipient of an Innovation Award in the Edward H. Bean Population Sustainability Award category for our work breeding blue death-feigning beetles!

Known for their striking blue color, long lifespan, and fascinating ability to “feign death” when threatened, these beetles are popular exhibit animals. However, relying on wild-caught beetles is not a sustainable long-term solution.

Since 2021, our team has worked to develop reliable breeding methods, achieving its first successful pupation and adult emergence in October 2023. Since then, we have bred more than 70 beetles and successfully raised two generations, demonstrating that zoo-born beetles can reproduce.

Our team has also shared its methods with other zoos, including a husbandry guide developed by Joe Maloney to help animal care professionals care for and breed this species.

We are incredibly proud of our team's innovation and dedication to advancing animal care and building sustainable populations in human care!

Boo at the Zoo is THIS Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., presented by Fit Excavating!

Enjoy trick-or-treating while our animals get in on the fun with pumpkin enrichment! Thank you to Jarred White with Farmers Insurance for providing pumpkins for both weekends!

Zoo members get in free and can skip the admissions line with the Member Only Lane!

Check out the enrichment schedule and visit our Facebook page for event details. See you Saturday for costumes, candy, and spooky fun!

It’s Reptile and Amphibian Awareness Day!

Today, we’re celebrating the incredible diversity of reptiles and amphibians and the important roles they play in their ecosystems.

From controlling pest populations to supporting healthy ecosystems, these animals are essential to the environments they call home. Yet, many species face threats from habitat loss, wildlife trafficking, and the exotic pet trade.

So, how can you help? Choose wildlife experiences that prioritize animal welfare, be an advocate against exotic pet trading, and support conservation efforts that protect natural habitats.

Protecting reptiles and amphibians starts with understanding their importance and making choices that support their survival.

Which reptile or amphibian is your favorite? 🦎 🐍 🐢 🐊

Tongue out Tuesday 👅

Which one earns the crown?

ONE MONTH UNTIL ZOO LIGHTS!🎄
The countdown to holiday magic is officially ON! Mrs. Claus and Santa stopped by the Topeka Zoo to check on the preparations and let’s just say, there’s plenty of merry-making in the works!

The lights are getting ready to shine, holiday displays are coming together, volunteers are working hard, and we’re making sure the hot chocolate is ready to pour. ☕

This year, Zoo Lights, presented by Evergy is getting a fresh new look with Joy to the World! Get ready for dazzling light displays, immersive holiday zones and plenty of reasons to make the Zoo part of your holiday traditions.

30 days until the Zoo shines bright! https://topekazoo.org/zoo-events/topeka-zoo-lights/

Tag someone who you plan to bring along to experience the magic of Zoo Lights this year!

#TopekaZoo #ZooLights #JoyToTheWorld #Evergy

In honor of National Veterinary Technician Week, we’d like to introduce you to Ashley!

Originally from St. George, Utah, Ashley has always had a passion for animals and knew she wanted a career caring for them. As a zoo veterinary technician, she gets to combine that passion with veterinary medicine while helping care for the incredible animals at the Topeka Zoo.

Her favorite part of the job is getting hands-on, whether she’s assisting with procedures, monitoring anesthesia, or helping with diagnostic testing. And when it comes to her favorite animals, Ashley has always had a soft spot for big cats, especially our cheetahs!

Join us in celebrating Ashley and the important work she does for our animals!