Adelaide Zoo Adelaide Zoo News 2025

[That Aussie Guy]

Adelaide Zoo no longer has Australia sea lion:

Farewell Ady. I’m grateful to have seen her before her passing last November. Her exhibit was extremely dated, as the zoo have acknowledged; but it was obvious she was well cared for and loved by the zoo’s team. She reached an impressive age!

From socials:

It’s with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Ady, Adelaide Zoo’s beloved Australian Sea Lion. As one of the oldest Australian Sea Lion in the region at 28 years old, and having well surpassed the average lifespan of her species at 15 in the wild and 20 in human care, Ady’s health has been closely monitored for some time.

On Monday, Ady’s dedicated keepers observed signs of discomfort, and our expert veterinary team conducted a thorough health check under anaesthetic which identified significant gastrointestinal and abdominal issues. Adelaide Zoo’s expert animal management team agreed that it was time to let Ady pass gently. She was euthanised late on Monday afternoon.

Ady will be missed greatly by her keepers, who have enjoyed a beautiful relationship with this playful, cheeky and highly intelligent girl. Her joyful spirit has made her a favourite of Adelaide Zoo staff, volunteers and visitors for many years.

Ady - short for Adelaide – was born at Adelaide Zoo in 1997, and after a few years at Sea World she returned home in 2009 and quickly made her way back into the hearts of many across the zoo community.

There will now be some consideration around future plans for Seal Bay. Adelaide Zoo has long said that it would not introduce new sea lions into the Seal Bay habitat in its current form, and this position has not changed. These discussions will take place in the future but for now, the priority is supporting our people through the loss of one of Adelaide Zoo’s most beloved residents. This news is very difficult for Ady’s keepers and all those in our zoo community who loved her. It is particularly hard after saying farewell to our male sea lion, Tasko, in March last year. We ask that you show only kindness and respect for the passing of Ady, and for our keepers, staff and volunteers who are feeling her loss deeply.

Sad news - Rest in Peace Ady. 28 years is an incredible achievement.

It's interesting they specifically mention not introducing Sea Lions to the current habitat, so I'm glad they haven't ruled out holding Sea Lions in the future; perhaps in a new habitat. Although it is important to note that the 'Tropical North' precinct is planned for the site of the current habitat.

I too was surprised to read that, especially seeing as there are no plans for Sea Lions in the Masterplan or 2023 Addendum. For the time being, if anything, I can see Seal Bay possibly being suited to a young, rescued Sea Lion(s), before they are released back into the wild or moved to a pre-release centre. It would disappoint me to see yet another enclosure, regardless of its age, sit empty.

With this enclosure empty, and Rhinoceros Iguanas and Meerkats being relatively easy to temporarily rehome (there was a large, empty enclosure in the Reptile House on my last visit (where I think the Komodo Dragon used to be??) that could be easily refitted for the Rhino Iguanas, and Meerkats could either go off-display, possibly up to Monarto, or in a small, temporary enclosure built on the site of the old Malleefowl aviaries), I would love to see construction begin on the Tropical North, but knowing money is always tight, and priorities are elsewhere currently (with the next "big project" being moving staff facilities from behind the giraffe enclosure down to the site of the old walkthrough quokka enclosure, and then expanding the giraffe yard to begin the new "savannah"), I doubt we will see much change in that area of the zoo in the near future.

 

[Zoofan15]

Sad news - Rest in Peace Ady. 28 years is an incredible achievement.



I too was surprised to read that, especially seeing as there are no plans for Sea Lions in the Masterplan or 2023 Addendum. For the time being, if anything, I can see Seal Bay possibly being suited to a young, rescued Sea Lion(s), before they are released back into the wild or moved to a pre-release centre. It would disappoint me to see yet another enclosure, regardless of its age, sit empty.

With this enclosure empty, and Rhinoceros Iguanas and Meerkats being relatively easy to temporarily rehome (there was a large, empty enclosure in the Reptile House on my last visit (where I think the Komodo Dragon used to be??) that could be easily refitted for the Rhino Iguanas, and Meerkats could either go off-display, possibly up to Monarto, or in a small, temporary enclosure built on the site of the old Malleefowl aviaries), I would love to see construction begin on the Tropical North, but knowing money is always tight, and priorities are elsewhere currently (with the next "big project" being moving staff facilities from behind the giraffe enclosure down to the site of the old walkthrough quokka enclosure, and then expanding the giraffe yard to begin the new "savannah"), I doubt we will see much change in that area of the zoo in the near future.

Unfortunately I don’t think any pinnipeds will be housed in this exhibit even on a temporary basis; but long term, I’m hopeful the comments made by the zoo indicate an intention to consider requiring the species (with updated housing).

The updated masterplan (2023) was a great disappointment to many of us; and there would be no complaints if multiple projects outlined in it were revised.

 

[Jambo]

Sad news - Rest in Peace Ady. 28 years is an incredible achievement.



I too was surprised to read that, especially seeing as there are no plans for Sea Lions in the Masterplan or 2023 Addendum. For the time being, if anything, I can see Seal Bay possibly being suited to a young, rescued Sea Lion(s), before they are released back into the wild or moved to a pre-release centre. It would disappoint me to see yet another enclosure, regardless of its age, sit empty.

With this enclosure empty, and Rhinoceros Iguanas and Meerkats being relatively easy to temporarily rehome (there was a large, empty enclosure in the Reptile House on my last visit (where I think the Komodo Dragon used to be??) that could be easily refitted for the Rhino Iguanas, and Meerkats could either go off-display, possibly up to Monarto, or in a small, temporary enclosure built on the site of the old Malleefowl aviaries), I would love to see construction begin on the Tropical North, but knowing money is always tight, and priorities are elsewhere currently (with the next "big project" being moving staff facilities from behind the giraffe enclosure down to the site of the old walkthrough quokka enclosure, and then expanding the giraffe yard to begin the new "savannah"), I doubt we will see much change in that area of the zoo in the near future.

Although I don't want to read too much into it, it does seem like they are perhaps considering holding Sea Lions again in the future. It's worth mentioning that South Australia has one of the largest populations of Australian Sea Lions in the whole country - so investing in a rescue facility where rehabilitated/rescued seals could be kept is certainly worth looking in to.

If they wished to scrap the 'Tropical North' and build a Marine style complex instead, they do have the space in that area for it. Though as you say, Adelaide do currently have other priorities so either way renovation to this area will at least be quite a while away. The positive here is that Adelaide will hopefully have time to re-assess their plans and consider whether Sea Lions may still be a worthy investment.

 

[Zoofan15]

Although I don't want to read too much into it, it does seem like they are perhaps considering holding Sea Lions again in the future. It's worth mentioning that South Australia has one of the largest populations of Australian Sea Lions in the whole country - so investing in a rescue facility where rehabilitated/rescued seals could be kept is certainly worth looking in to.

If they wished to scrap the 'Tropical North' and build a Marine style complex instead, they do have the space in that area for it. Though as you say, Adelaide do currently have other priorities so either way renovation to this area will at least be quite a while away. The positive here is that Adelaide will hopefully have time to re-assess their plans and consider whether Sea Lions may still be a worthy investment.

The other possibility is that sadly it could be a throwaway comment designed to minimise disappointment the general public are feeling at not being able to see the species at Adelaide Zoo anymore. The general public will find hearing the zoo will consider acquiring more sea lions in the future easier to swallow than a blunt, ‘You’ll never see sea lions at this zoo again.’

Auckland Zoo notoriously made claims they’d be importing more Common hippopotamus in 2016 upon announcing the death of their last hippo. Predictably, this came to nothing.

Through circumstance, Adelaide have lost a number of elderly animals in recent years - the African lions being another major blow. A new lion exhibit (and lions) are a number of years away; but concrete plans are in place nonetheless, providing assurance that there will be some follow through.

 

[That Aussie Guy]

Unfortunately I don’t think any pinnipeds will be housed in this exhibit even on a temporary basis

Are there any species you feel would be fitted to the enclosure for a 5-10 year period? Little Penguins were my first thought, but after a new enclosure was recently built I don't see Adelaide Zoo renovating another exhibit for them and splitting the colony again.

 

[Zoofan15]

Are there any species you feel would be fitted to the enclosure for a 5-10 year period? Little Penguins were my first thought, but after a new enclosure was recently built I don't see Adelaide Zoo renovating another exhibit for them and splitting the colony again.

I too would have otherwise said Little blue pengiun, but they’re clearly thriving in the current exhibit.

Depending on numbers, the zoo might desire to house meerkats in here. They have a reasonable number already and hierarchy disputes often necessitate splits. Alternatively, otters could be a consideration. They’d make use of the pool and the parent/offspring grouping Adelaide has can’t be expected to remain cohesive forever.

 

[Jambo]

Are there any species you feel would be fitted to the enclosure for a 5-10 year period? Little Penguins were my first thought, but after a new enclosure was recently built I don't see Adelaide Zoo renovating another exhibit for them and splitting the colony again.

I can definitely see the exhibit sitting empty until it's eventually demolished long term.

Another option is splitting some of the zoo's Pelicans across. Or perhaps (wishful thinking on my part), Adelaide could snatch this opportunity to import a mate for Obi the Pygmy Hippo and house her here until the zoo ends up building the new enclosure/s.

 

[Zoofan15]

I can definitely see the exhibit sitting empty until it's eventually demolished long term.

Another option is splitting some of the zoo's Pelicans across. Or perhaps (wishful thinking on my part), Adelaide could snatch this opportunity to import a mate for Obi the Pygmy Hippo and house her here until the zoo ends up building the new enclosure/s.

Or better yet, repurpose it for Brazilian tapir. Since it’s now been established the Malayan tapir can’t cohabit with female Brazilian tapir, Adelaide are gonna have to do some reshuffling or wait until a couple of their elderly tapir pass before they can bring in a breeding pair as is the intention.

It’s unconfirmed if the male tapir being imported into Australia this year is going to Melbourne or Adelaide. Melbourne (with the empty elephant paddocks) seems the stronger likelihood; but now Adelaide might have an option to proceed with an import of their own.

 

[Jambo]

Or better yet, repurpose it for Brazilian tapir. Since it’s now been established the Malayan tapir can’t cohabit with female Brazilian tapir, Adelaide are gonna have to do some reshuffling or wait until a couple of their elderly tapir pass before they can bring in a breeding pair as is the intention.

It’s unconfirmed if the male tapir being imported into Australia this year is going to Melbourne or Adelaide. Melbourne (with the empty elephant paddocks) seems the stronger likelihood; but now Adelaide might have an option to proceed with an import of their own.

I had considered that, but there would need to quite significant modifications for Tapir. Not to mention the land space isn't the biggest for them.

I think it's likely that Melbourne is acquiring the male Tapir. They recently moved the Nyala into the former Bongo enclosure. I don't think it's much of a coincidence they're freeing up the former Tapir exhibit at the same time that a male is about to be imported!

 

[Sunbear12]

I visited Adelaide last week and Ady was off display at the time, I feared the worst was near then and it is sad to have her passing confirmed.

With the capybara temporarily living in the area which is slated to become off display when the relocated keeper facilities are built I would not be surprised to seem them move to the sea lion exhibit as their permanent home.

In other news from my visit a veiled chameleon is now on display in the envirodome and a blood python is in the exhibit in the reptile house which most recently housed the juvenile giant tortoise.

Construction has also commenced on a new orange bellied parrot aviary behind the pelican exhibit.

 

[That Aussie Guy]

In other news from my visit a veiled chameleon is now on display in the envirodome.

Glad to hear a Veiled Chameleon is back on display! I remember seeing them quite a few years back and was quite saddened when those wall vivaria (where I presume it is housed?) became filled with tree frogs and stick insects.

 

[Zoofan15]

Black and white colobus born May 29:

Great to hear of another birth to Zamba, who previously gave birth in November 2023.

From socials:

Say hello to the newest (and fluffiest) face at Adelaide Zoo! Born on 29 May to mum Zamba, this baby Black-and-white Colobus monkey is already turning heads with its snowy white coat, a striking contrast to the sleek black and white look of the adults.

With grandma Amanda and aunty Adale lending a hand, this little one is getting the full family treatment The baby is yet to be named and we’re still waiting to confirm the sex, but one thing’s for sure it’s already stealing hearts.

 

[Jambo]

Black and white colobus born May 29:

Great to hear of another birth to Zamba, who previously gave birth in November 2023.

From socials:

Say hello to the newest (and fluffiest) face at Adelaide Zoo! Born on 29 May to mum Zamba, this baby Black-and-white Colobus monkey is already turning heads with its snowy white coat, a striking contrast to the sleek black and white look of the adults.

With grandma Amanda and aunty Adale lending a hand, this little one is getting the full family treatment The baby is yet to be named and we’re still waiting to confirm the sex, but one thing’s for sure it’s already stealing hearts.

Great news! This is the fourth Colobus offspring born at Adelaide in the last few years.

This infant follows;

0.1 Jamila (Jan 2023) Jasiri x Adale
0.0.1 Nuru (Nov 2023) Jasiri x Zamba
0.0.1 Sukari (Mar 2024) Jasiri x Adale
0.0.1 Unnamed (May 2025) Jasiri x Zamba

If Adale hasn't been placed on contraception and follows her previous birthing gap - she too could be due very soon. It's already been fifteen months since her last little one was born.

 

[Zoofan15]

Great news! This is the fourth Colobus offspring born at Adelaide in the last few years.

This infant follows;

0.1 Jamila (Jan 2023) Jasiri x Adale
0.0.1 Nuru (Nov 2023) Jasiri x Zamba
0.0.1 Sukari (Mar 2024) Jasiri x Adale
0.0.1 Unnamed (May 2025) Jasiri x Zamba

If Adale hasn't been placed on contraception and follows her previous birthing gap - she too could be due very soon. It's already been fifteen months since her last little one was born.

The average birth interval for Black and white colobus is 20 months, so these females have been doing exceptionally well:

0.1 Jamila (Jan 2023) Jasiri x Adale
~ 14 months
0.0.1 Sukari (Mar 2024) Jasiri x Adale

0.0.1 Nuru (Nov 2023) Jasiri x Zamba
~ 18 months
0.0.1 Unnamed (May 2025) Jasiri x Zamba

Considering the stagnation of the regional population prior to the import of Adelaide’s females, I’m optimistic they’ll be allowed to produce a succession of infants to build up numbers - presumably with females retained in their natal troop as is the natural social order.

 

[Zorro]

Great news! This is the fourth Colobus offspring born at Adelaide in the last few years.

This infant follows;

0.1 Jamila (Jan 2023) Jasiri x Adale
0.0.1 Nuru (Nov 2023) Jasiri x Zamba
0.0.1 Sukari (Mar 2024) Jasiri x Adale
0.0.1 Unnamed (May 2025) Jasiri x Zamba

If Adale hasn't been placed on contraception and follows her previous birthing gap - she too could be due very soon. It's already been fifteen months since her last little one was born.

It would be even better if 2 to 3 more regional zoos became holders

 

[Zoofan15]

It would be even better if 2 to 3 more regional zoos became holders

It’d be great to have some additional holders come onboard. Altina, Darling Downs etc. would surely excel with this species and some additional imports would be much welcomed.

It appears Adelaide Zoo now has three unsexed (or at least the previous two infants haven’t been announced yet). Bearing in mind they could have up to three young males now, consideration may even be given as a region to establishing a small bachelor troop somewhere as the next step in the breeding programme.

 

[Zorro]

It’d be great to have some additional holders come onboard. Altina, Darling Downs etc. would surely excel with this species and some additional imports would be much welcomed.

It appears Adelaide Zoo now has three unsexed (or at least the previous two infants haven’t been announced yet). Bearing in mind they could have up to three young males now, consideration may even be given as a region to establishing a small bachelor troop somewhere as the next step in the breeding programme.

One would believe that Adelaide Zoo would be glad to off load some of the off spring out of the group of both sexes!

 

[Zoofan15]

One would believe that Adelaide Zoo would be glad to off load some of the off spring out of the group of both sexes!

The breeding females in Adelaide’s troop are 15 and 21 years of age, so I’m anticipating they’ll be retaining any daughters they produce for succession. A minimum of two (ideally three or four) would achieve this.

Once the troop has produced the desired number of female infants, they could transfer out the breeding male (Jasiri) and any male infants to form a bachelor troop elsewhere. They could then bring in a new male in time to breed with the latest generation of females.

 

[Jambo]

It would be even better if 2 to 3 more regional zoos became holders

It’d be great to have some additional holders come onboard. Altina, Darling Downs etc. would surely excel with this species and some additional imports would be much welcomed.

It appears Adelaide Zoo now has three unsexed (or at least the previous two infants haven’t been announced yet). Bearing in mind they could have up to three young males now, consideration may even be given as a region to establishing a small bachelor troop somewhere as the next step in the breeding programme.

Werribee is a good choice for a bachelor group in their current Vervet Monkey enclosure - which will likely be empty sooner rather than later due to the ages of their current individuals and them being on the way out.

 

[Tiger91]

Werribee is a good choice for a bachelor group in their current Vervet Monkey enclosure - which will likely be empty sooner rather than later due to the ages of their current individuals and them being on the way out.

It'll be a shame they never kept vervets, they also would have fit perfectly with monarto and western plains. I'll never understand why they were never invested in more. There such a quintessential African species.