The zoo was fortunate to have several species of birds hatch out in late spring/early summer.

First up, three tundra swans (Cygnus columbianus) hatched on June 2. Although tundra swans are the most numerous and widespread swan species, this is the first time they have been bred and hatched at the zoo. They are looking nearly like their parents, now, and can be viewed in the zoo's Temperate Wetlands exhibit.

Photo: Dennis Dow

Next, two male red-crowned crane (Grus japonensis) chicks hatched on June 24 and 26. The most endangered of crane species, red-crowned cranes are closely related to the North American whooping crane, but inhabit the steppes of Central Asia, Siberian, Japan, South Korea and eastern China. Between 1,700 and 2,000 are believed to still exist in the wild. Several years ago, the zoo provided eggs that were hatched and the birds then released back into the wild. They can be seen near the Temperate Wetlands exhibit.

Photos: Dennis Dow

On July 5, a great Malay argus (Argusianus argus) hatched out in the Conservation Aviary. Natives to the islands of Borneo, Sumatra and the Malay Peninsula, these blue-headed birds are a species of pheasants whose males are known for their decorated, secondary wing feathers that showcase large ocelli or “eyes” that they flaunt to attract mates. The baby is still off view, but the parents can be seen in the Conservation Aviary.

Photos: Eric Kowalczyk