Emu chicks make their debut to the delight of children at the Santa Barbara Zoo
Tracy Lehr / NewsChannel 3-12
Tracy Lehr / NewsChannel 3-12
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - A pair of emu chicks made their debut at the Santa Barbara Zoo. The baby brother emus are the first animals to arrive at the zoo that will call the Australian Walkabout exhibit home.
The emu chicks are locals, coming just about an hour away from OstrichLand USA in Buellton.
“We are so lucky to be able to partner with such a great local facility like OstrichLand,” said Rachel Ritchason, Santa Barbara Zoo’s Director of Animal Collections. “Not only does this mean the transport is a short, local drive, which minimizes the stress on the chicks, but their values are very much aligned with the Zoo’s, which makes them the perfect partner for us. They provide valuable expertise and support in caring for the birds, while strengthening and supporting local partnerships.”
Alex Zauner/NC3
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. With Southern California’s stay-at-home order over, coronavirus restrictions have rolled back.
Today this allowed animals and humans to interact once again at the Santa Barbara Zoo.
“Heard that it was opening up, so we went because we go all the time,” zoo member Summer Kearin said. “We love to see the animals.”
Emma Hepworth took a trip from Los Angeles to visit the zoo with her husband and two sons.
“It’s set up well to come and visit as a family, she said. “You can space out and let everyone enjoy.”
While the zoo was closed, the staff remained busy as can be taking care of all the animals.