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Peoria Zoo Director Max Lakes shared that Tecalli's passing has profoundly saddened the staff. “Tecalli was an incredible ambassador for her species. Her presence enriched our Zoo and left an indelible mark on all who had the chance to know her,” Lakes stated.
Tecalli joined the Peoria Zoo in 2015 from the St. Louis Zoo, where her gentle and intelligent nature quickly endeared her to staff and guests. Reagan Slonecker, one of her primary keepers, described Tecalli as a caring and cautious animal with a soft spot for carrots. “She was a really sweet zebra,” Slonecker reflected. “She had a natural instinct to herd the other animals whenever something unusual happened. She was truly a kind mare, and she will be greatly missed.”
Tecalli shared her habitat with another Grevy’s zebra, Phoebe, whose welfare is a top priority for the Peoria Zoo team. The Zoo plans to bring in another zebra companion for Phoebe to ensure she continues to receive vital social interactions. Working with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan, the Zoo is committed to selecting an ideal companion for Phoebe to maintain her physical and emotional wellbeing. In the meantime, keepers will closely monitor Phoebe’s condition and provide her with extra enrichment activities to help her adjust.
Grevy’s zebras are an endangered species native to Kenya and Ethiopia. These remarkable animals typically live 20-25 years in the wild, with slightly longer lifespans under managed care, thanks to dedicated husbandry and medical support. Tecalli's life and legacy at the Peoria Zoo will remain a cherished part of the Zoo's conservation efforts and commitment to endangered species.
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