Brookfield Zoo Chicago

As Women’s History Month wraps up, we are thrilled to present a free online discussion featuring Zo? Harris, a PhD candidate in Community Health Sciences at the University of Illinois–Chicago. As a proud citizen of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe and Jamaica, Zo? combines her unique cultural perspectives to advance public health through an intersectional lens. Her work focuses on education, health promotion, and language preservation within Indigenous and urban Native communities. Zo?’s groundbreaking research and advocacy tackle critical issues such as mental health, racism in public health, and social determinants of health, all while fostering meaningful change in diverse communities. Join us for an inspiring session with Zo? as she shares her insights and efforts to create a more equitable future for all. ?? Wednesday, March 26 at 5:00 p.m. ?? Register for free at https://bit.ly/41JEtAF

Attention Educators! Join us onsite at Brookfield Zoo Chicago for our newest Teacher Workshop on Friday, April 25 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. As you learn about giraffe adaptations and conservation, we will model practical, engaging strategies to implement problem-based learning in your classroom. (This program is designed for educators teaching grades 4-8. High school teachers are also welcome.) Learn more and register at https://bit.ly/4bJhnP5.

We're continuing the celebration of Women's History Month by hosting a free, online discussion with Dr. Karen Murchie, a leading expert in migratory fish conservation and sustainable fisheries. As Director of Freshwater Research at Shedd Aquarium, Dr. Murchie works to advance freshwater biodiversity research and inform global conservation policies. Her experience spans the Great Lakes, Arctic, Amazon, and beyond! ??? Wednesday, March 19 at 5:00 p.m. ?? Register for free at https://bit.ly/4bzA5su

In celebration of Women's History Month, we are thrilled to host a FREE online discussion with Katie Propp, a dynamic conservation leader and science communicator who is shaping the future of wildlife protection. As the COO of Penguins International, Katie leads impactful initiatives to safeguard penguin species worldwide, including the highly successful "March of the Penguin Madness" campaign. Her work unites communities, organizations, and scientific efforts to drive real, meaningful change in conservation and ocean protection. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from a trailblazing woman who is making waves in the conservation world! ?? Wednesday, March 12 at 5:00 p.m. ?? Register for FREE at https://bit.ly/4kyJbJY

Conservation breakthrough alert! For the first time ever, a groundbreaking study published by our scientists in the Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens MDPI documents 11 critical developmental milestones for Guam kingfishers. This research is vital in informing husbandry practices and supporting a global effort to reintroduce this species into the wild. Also known as sihek by the CHamoru people of Guam, this species had been cared for exclusively at U.S. zoos for the past four decades after becoming Extinct in the Wild in the 1980s when a rescue effort brought the remaining nearly 30 birds into professional care. Brookfield Zoo Chicago has participated in the Sihek Recovery Program since its inception and currently cares for the largest sihek population at a single institution! This newly published study, based on decades of data (1989–2023), enhances our understanding of sihek chick growth and development—offering animal care experts normal development ranges and an understanding of when to intervene to best support a chick’s health and welfare. It demonstrates the essential role of accredited zoos in species conservation, from research and care to eventual reintroduction, as shown by Sihek Recovery Program’s reintroduction efforts that began in fall 2024.

We’re incredibly honored for Brookfield Zoo Chicago to be recognized as one of the Top 10 Best Zoos in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler for 2025! This recognition, independently selected by their editors, is a testament to the passion and dedication of our team, who work tirelessly to provide world-class animal care, immersive guest experiences, and impactful conservation initiatives. Thank you to our incredible staff, volunteers, guests, and supporters who make the Zoo such a special place every day. Read the full list here: https://lnkd.in/gwxa2p6a

Celebrate Women’s History Month with us! This March, we’re shining a spotlight on inspiring women who are leading the way in wildlife conservation, environmental advocacy, and community science. The speakers for this series are: Marilú López-Fretts, project leader for Celebrate Urban Birds is a passionate advocate for inclusive science. Marilú leads community-based research across the Americas to make birding and conservation more accessible and equitable. ?? Wednesday, March 5 at 5:00 p.m. Katie Propp, Chief Operating Officer at Penguins International is a dynamic conservation leader and science communicator. Katie spearheads global efforts to protect penguin species and inspire action for ocean conservation. ?? Wednesday, March 12 at 5:00 p.m. Dr. Karen Murchie, Director of Freshwater Research at Shedd Aquarium is a freshwater research expert. Dr. Murchie works to conserve migratory fish and advance sustainable fisheries through science and community engagement. ?? Wednesday, March 19 at 5:00 p.m. Zo? Harris, Community Health Sciences PhD candidate at the University of Illinois – Chicago, School of Public Health is a dedicated public health researcher. Zo? focuses on Indigenous health, education, and advocacy to address social determinants of health and promote equity. ?? Wednesday, March 26 at 5:00 p.m. You can register for these free, virtual discussions at https://bit.ly/3Eph13n.

We're wrapping up February with our fourth and final speaker: Sierra Taliaferro! Sierra is an outdoor educator and bird enthusiast dedicated to promoting diversity in urban conservation, social justice, and community advocacy. With experience in strategic planning, community engagement, and land management, she has worked with various organizations to implement outdoor education and outreach. Sierra is also the founder of The Green Obsidian, a social media platform highlighting Black professionals in environmental conservation. Register for her free, virtual discussion on Wednesday, February 26 at 5:00 p.m. at https://bit.ly/3Et6aWn

Ready to take your career on a wild adventure? ?? Brookfield Zoo Chicago is hiring, and we’re excited to invite you to our Job Fair this Saturday, February 22, at the Zoo’s Discovery Center from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. This is your chance to explore exciting roles in food and beverage, retail, catering, custodial, admissions, attractions, and more! Plus, you can interview on the spot. As part of our team, you’ll enjoy amazing perks like free Zoo admission, flexible schedules, employee discounts, and plenty of career advancement opportunities. Don’t miss out—check out our open positions and apply in advance here ?? https://lnkd.in/gRa9VZvY.

These five rescued spider monkeys have found their forever home here at Brookfield Zoo Chicago! These endangered monkeys are being given a second chance after being confiscated from the illegal wildlife trade in 2023. Luckily, after 18 months of rehabilitation by dedicated care teams at San Diego Zoo Safari Park and Houston Zoo, the monkeys have made a remarkable recovery and are thriving in their new home behind the scenes. Guests will be able to view the monkeys at the upcoming opening of Tropical Forests later this summer! Spider monkeys are often targeted by traffickers due to their small size and placed into the exotic pet trade. This practice contributes to the decimation of wild primate populations and once the animals are trafficked, they require specialized lifelong care. For more about how Brookfield Zoo Chicago cares for this special species, read the Chicago Tribune article at https://bit.ly/4k6S5hQ.