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PEORIA (June 25, 2025) – Peoria Zoo is thrilled to welcome the newest addition to its Africa! exhibit—a striking and spirited Grevy’s zebra, who arrived this spring and is already making an impression with his big ears, playful personality, and shorter stature.
Born at White Oak Conservation Center in Florida, this young male came to Peoria Zoo in March and will celebrate his 5th birthday on July 3rd. His arrival was a strategic recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) for Grevy’s zebras, which carefully manages breeding and transfers among accredited zoos to maintain a healthy, genetically diverse population.
Guests can now see the zebra, along with Phoebe, an 18-year-old female, in the Zoo’s Africa! exhibit. The pair shares a mixed-species habitat with rhinoceroses, offering a dynamic and engaging glimpse into the diverse wildlife of the African savanna.
To celebrate his arrival, Peoria Zoo is launching a public naming contest! Community members are invited to help name this unique zebra by voting for one of six carefully chosen names:
- Roman
- Stripes
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Masikio (Swahili for "ears")
- Radar
- Jimmy
- Neuman
Each vote costs $1, with all proceeds benefiting Grevy’s Zebra Trust, an organization dedicated to the protection of Grevy’s zebras in their natural habitat. Voting is open now through July 10, both online and at the Zoo. Supporters are encouraged to vote as many times as they’d like—more votes mean more impact for this endangered species.
“This is a fun way for our community to engage with wildlife conservation in a meaningful way,” said Max Lakes, Director of Peoria Zoo. “Every vote supports a mission that extends far beyond Peoria—helping to protect a species that is truly at risk.”
For more information and to cast your vote, visit www.peoriazoo.org or stop by the Zoo during regular hours.
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