02/06/2020
Will join female snowy owl in expanded and improved habitat
Seneca Park Zoo announces the arrival of a male snowy owl named Tundra. Tundra will join the female snowy owl, Winter, in a newly expanded and improved habitat outside the Rocky Coasts Gallery.
Tundra, a six-year-old male, comes from the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Unlike female snowy owl, Winter, Tundra is able to fly. In 2014, he was confiscated by the Pennsylvania Game Commission from a private citizen. Because he was imprinted on humans, he was deemed unable to be re-released.
“Tundra’s story gives us a great opportunity to educate the public about the perils of having endangered animals as pets,” said Pamela Reed Sanchez, President and CEO of Seneca Park Zoo Society. “That said, it’s great for guests to be able to see these amazing animals so close.”
The snowy owl habitat has been renovated to be fully enclosed, and to include new perches and a new shelter area. It has been closed for several months for the improvements.
“The netting allows the snowy owls to remain outside overnight while affording them protection from predators. It also allows us to hold flighted owls that we couldn’t before,” commented Acting Zoo Director David Hamilton. “This new habitat will hopefully allow us to breed the snowy owls as well. Tundra and Winter have already gone through an introduction period and seem to be very compatible.”
Through March 31, the Zoo is open every day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with last entry at 3 p.m. This week, County Executive Adam Bello announced that during the month of February, the Zoo is offering “Free Youth February.” For every adult who purchases an admissions ticket in February, up to five youth guests (ages 3-11) can join them on their Zoo visit for free. Children under 3 are always free of charge.
