Como Friends

Today we're celebrating Gomez, our beloved black-handed spider monkey, who is turning 35. Happy Birthday Gomez!

The Gates Ajar

A beloved Como Park tradition since 1894, The Gates Ajar is one of the nation's oldest mosaiculture displays. Parks Superintendent Frederick Nussbaumer introduced the idea after seeing similar horticultural displays in European parks, and Henry Robbins created the original framework that same year.

Named after a verse in The Golden Legend by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, The Gates Ajar has been replanted every year since its debut. The wrought iron gates, originally from the Crosby Estate, have occupied several locations throughout the park before moving to their current site east of Lexington Parkway in 1963. The display was extensively restored in 2007, with the flagstone steps and rock wall foundation renovated in 2014.

Today, the tradition lives on through the artistry of Marjorie McNeely Conservatory gardener Marie Day, who designs the annual planting with both history and imagination in mind. Growing and arranging nearly 10,000 annual plants, Marie and team spend countless hours transforming the historic framework into a vibrant living tapestry. While the design has long incorporated symbols of Faith, Hope, Charity, and the Wheel of Life Everlasting, her seasonal interpretations introduce fresh color palettes, symbols, textures, and patterns that invite visitors to see something new each year.

Whether admired up close or glimpsed by passersby traveling along Lexington Parkway, The Gates Ajar continues to inspire moments of wonder. It is both a living work of art and a cherished reminder that even a tradition more than 130 years old can continue to grow, bloom, and welcome each new generation.

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is free and accessible to all, 365 days a year. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3OepWdk

Join us in wishing a very happy hatchday to Mutambi, our gorgeous grey crowned crane! Mutambi arrived at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory back in June of 2023, and today she's turning 8!

Grey crowned cranes are famous for their elaborate dances. They run, jump up to several feet in the air, bob their heads, bow, and even throw sticks and grass into the air. What’s unique is that they don’t just dance during mating season—they dance year-round, and young chicks do it too.

Want to tell Mutambi apart from her mate Houdini? The next time you visit the African Hoofstock exhibit look closely at their legs. Mutambi wears a silver band on her left leg!

Every gift you give helps provide the highest level of care to the animals who call Como Zoo home. Thank you! https://bit.ly/3OepWdk

Summer is in full swing at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory!

Our calendar is packed with everything you need to make the most of these sunny days—from public programs and face-to-face animal encounters to free live concerts. Whether you’ve got just an hour to drop in, or a full day to play, check out this roster of what’s happening and when to make the most of your summer days. https://bit.ly/4aNcdSL