A zoo in Florida is celebrating the first birth of a koala and the opening of a newly renovated habitat for the cuddly creatures. The Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society in West Palm Beach will open the upgraded Outback habitat to the public on Saturday.
The joey, born to koalas Ellin and Sydney last autumn, remains in its mother's pouch and has only recently become visible to zoo officials. Staff are monitoring Ellin's weight and providing extra food as she cares for the baby.
The renovated habitat includes more greenery, new perching for exercising, and solar tubes to bring in natural light. The changes aim to bring a bit of the Australian outback to the zoo for the endangered species. Koalas can move between their climate-controlled indoor exhibit and the expanded outdoor area.
“This new habitat is a milestone for our koalas,” said Margo McKnight, the zoo's CEO and president, in a news release. “The deliberate design supports the voluntary, cooperative care our zoologists and koalas have developed together.”
Koalas in the United States are on loan from the Australian federal government to aid conservation. The renovations are designed to encourage natural behaviours such as climbing and hopping between trees.
