New Arrivals at the Zoo: Learn more about our new Ringtails

Photo Credit: Maggie Quinn

LITTLE ROCK (August 29, 2024) –We’re pleased to introduce two new residents at the Little Rock Zoo—Austin and Amethyst, our new ringtails. These intriguing animals have recently settled into their new habitat, located next to the giant tortoises and across from the flamingos, and we're excited to share more about them.

Introducing Our Ringtails

Austin, a one-year-old ringtail, arrived at the Little Rock Zoo in April 2024 from the Phoenix Zoo. He is energetic and curious, quickly adapting to his new environment. Amethyst, a six-year-old ringtail, joined us from the Oklahoma City Zoo in July 2024. With her experience and maturity, she complements Austin well. Both ringtails were placed together under the Ringtail Species Survival Plan (SSP), which aims to maintain a healthy and genetically diverse population of ringtails in human care. While ringtails are not currently endangered, the SSP plays a crucial role in ensuring the species' long-term viability and supporting conservation efforts.

A Closer Look at Ringtails

Ringtails are intriguing creatures native to North America, particularly the arid regions. Though they are often mistaken for members of the feline family, they are actually more closely related to raccoons. As nocturnal animals, they are most active during the night, using their large eyes to navigate in low light conditions. During the day, they rest, conserving energy for their nightly activities.

The ringtail’s diet is as varied as their habitat. Being omnivores, they consume a mix of fruits, vegetables, insects, and small vertebrates.

Conservation in Action

Ringtails are integral to their ecosystems, functioning as both predators and prey. Their role in maintaining ecological balance is vital, yet their populations face significant threats from habitat loss, climate change, and other human activities. These challenges underscore the need for targeted conservation efforts to safeguard their future.

The Species Survival Plan (SSP) plays a crucial role in this effort. By carefully managing the breeding and placement of animals like Austin and Amethyst, the SSP aims to maintain genetic diversity and ensure a sustainable population of ringtails in human care. This initiative helps create a robust reserve population that can support ongoing conservation and research efforts.

The Little Rock Zoo’s involvement in the SSP not only contributes to the survival of the species but also enhances our ability to educate the public about the importance of conservation. By housing and caring for Austin and Amethyst and any of their future offspring, we help raise awareness about the challenges faced by ringtails and the broader implications for their habitats.

Visit the Ringtails on Your Next Trip to the Zoo

Austin and Amethyst are settling into their new home, which is located next to the giant tortoises and across from the flamingos at the Zoo. Their enclosure is designed to mimic their natural habitat, offering plenty of opportunities for them to exhibit their natural behaviors. Keep an eye out for them next time you visit, especially if you’re here in the late afternoon or evening when they’re likely to be more active.

We invite you to visit Austin and Amethyst and learn more about these unique animals. Your visit supports our conservation efforts, ensuring that species like the ringtail continue to thrive for generations to come.

Plan Your Next Visit to the Zoo!

Photo Credits: Maggie Quinn