Hear the incredible discussions yourself with our live event recording, below! If you’re inspired, a donation can help drive real change for wildlife and desert ecosystems around the globe.

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In 2024, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens launched a global movement to celebrate desert ecosystems, founding World Desert Day, which is held on the second Saturday in January. The day was officially recognized by the State of California last year and, on January 8 of this year, Congressman Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA-25) introduced a joint House resolution (H.J.Res.138) expressing support for national recognition.

“Growing up in the desert, these landscapes were not just where we lived, they were part of who we are,” said Congressman Ruiz in his announcement. “From wide-open spaces to the unforgettable sunsets that define our communities, deserts shape our identity, our culture, and our way of life. National Desert Day is a chance to celebrate that beauty while recognizing our responsibility to protect these places for future generations.”

“Deserts are among the most biologically diverse and culturally significant ecosystems in our country,” Ruiz continued. “They support unique wildlife, sustain Indigenous and local communities, and play a critical role in combating climate change. Desert soils and native vegetation act as important carbon sinks, helping capture and store carbon while building resilience against rising temperatures.”

As the representative of one of the most iconic desert regions in the nation, Congressman Ruiz knows firsthand how deeply desert landscapes are woven into the lives of his constituents.

The United States is home to four major deserts: the Mojave, Chihuahuan, Great Basin, and our own Sonoran. Each of these regions sustains distinctive wildlife, provides vital habitats for migratory birds, and carries profound cultural significance for Indigenous peoples and local communities. Still, these desert ecosystems face growing threats — from climate change, habitat destruction, invasive species, and unsustainable development.

Congressman Ruiz’s resolution encourages national recognition of deserts through educational programs, conservation activities, and community engagement. It also reaffirms congressional support for policies that protect desert biodiversity, reduce invasive plant species, and promote stewardship of native landscapes.

“At The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, desert conservation is not just our mission — it is our identity,” said Allen Monroe, the Zoo’s President and CEO. “We are proud to have led the charge to create World Desert Day and are deeply grateful for Congressman Ruiz’s support in advancing this effort at the national level.”

The National Desert Day resolution has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources, where it will be reviewed before going to the full House for a vote. “Recognizing this day sends a powerful message that the rich and irreplaceable biodiversity of deserts matter,” noted Allen Monroe. “Protecting their future requires us all to work together.”

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In an innovative approach to combating illegal wildlife trafficking, scientists in Tanzania have turned to an unexpected ally, the African giant pouched rat. Known for their extraordinary sense of smell and intelligence, these large rodents (roughly the size of a small house cat) are being trained to detect contraband hidden in shipments moving through airports and seaports — items such as rhino horn; giraffe hide, hair, and bone; elephant ivory; pangolin scales; and African blackwood. Having previously been used to sniff for landmines and tuberculosis with great success, “HeroRATs,” as they’re called, are proving to be highly effective in identifying illegal wildlife products, offering a promising new tool in the global fight against wildlife crime.

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is proud to announce a new partnership with APOPO, the organization behind the HeroRAT training program. As part of this collaboration, Zoo guests will now have the unique opportunity to experience daily HeroRAT demonstrations, bringing visitors face-to-face with these remarkable animals. With these interactive connections, we will be able to share the critical story of wildlife trafficking and the efforts underway to stop it.

This groundbreaking project highlights not only the amazing abilities of rats but also the power of creative conservation solutions. Lightweight, quick, and highly trainable, HeroRATs offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional detection methods like sniffer dogs and X-ray technology. Their work is helping to disrupt trafficking networks and protect some of the world’s most endangered species.

By showcasing the incredible work of HeroRATs, we hope to inspire guests to become Desert Defenders — champions for wildlife who carry the message forward and help create a future where all species can thrive.

The post “HeroRATS” to the Rescue appeared first on The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens.

Ingredient Swap

For those with a soy allergy or severe dislike of tofu, you could try making vegetarian lettuce wraps without tofu using one of the following options:

Omit the tofu completely, creating a solely vegetarian lettuce wraps mushroom filling.

For an option with extra protein and added texture, you could try making vegetarian lettuce wraps with beans and mushrooms instead. Use rinsed and drained canned chickpeas.

Ingredients

• Tofu. Once crumbled and coated in the sauce, even the most diligent of tofu skeptics will enjoy this dish. Tofu is rich in protein and low in calories, making these lettuce wraps healthy (especially when compared to restaurant versions).
• Hoisin. Similar to an Asian barbecue sauce, it’s sticky, sweet, and incredibly delicious. It’s the sauce’s foundation.
• Soy Sauce. Since this is an Asian lettuce wraps recipe, we can’t skip the soy sauce. It adds mouth-watering umami goodness to the sauce.
• Rice Wine Vinegar. Adds a touch of light, sweet acidity.
• Sesame Oil. Lightly nutty and wonderful in Asian recipes like this one.
• Mushrooms. After being finely chopped and coated in the sauce, the mushrooms are barely noticeable in this dish. They do, however, give the filling a great depth of flavor.
• Water Chestnuts. For a satisfying crunch.
• Red Pepper Flakes. Adds heat without making the dish overly spicy. If you enjoy the spice, you can add more to taste or top the wraps with sriracha.
• Lettuce Leaves. What kind of lettuce is used for lettuce wraps? While I think the best lettuce for lettuce wraps is Boston lettuce (or Bibb or butter
• lettuce), romaine lettuce would also work well. Iceberg lettuce can be used in a pinch.

Measurements

3 tablespoons hoisin sauce

3 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 teaspoon sesame oil

2 teaspoons canola oil or grapeseed oil

1 package (12 to 14 ounces) extra-firm tofu do not use silken

8 ounces Baby Bella cremini mushrooms finely chopped

1 can (8 ounces) water chestnuts drained and finely chopped

2 cloves garlic minced

2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger · ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes omit if sensitive to spice

4 green onions thinly sliced, divided

8 large inner leaves romaine lettuce from a romaine heart or butter lettuce leaves

Optional for serving: grated carrots additional red pepper flakes

Instructions

In a small bowl, stir together the hoisin, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Set aside.

Press the tofu between paper towels to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Refresh the paper towels and press again. Heat the 2 teaspoons of canola oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high. Once the oil is hot, crumble in the tofu, breaking it into very small pieces as it cooks. Continue cooking for 5 minutes, then

add the diced mushrooms. Continue cooking until any remaining tofu liquid is cooked off, and the tofu starts to turn golden, about 3 minutes more. Stir in the water chestnuts, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, and half of the green onions and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds more.

Pour the sauce over the top of the tofu mixture and stir to coat. Cook just until you hear bubbling and the sauce is warmed through, 30 to 60 seconds.

Spoon the tofu mixture into individual lettuce leaves. Top with remaining green onions, grated carrots, and additional red pepper flakes as desired. Enjoy it immediately.

Storage Tips

• To Store. The tofu filling can be refrigerated for 3 to 5 days. Store lettuce leaves separately in the refrigerator.
• To Freeze. You can freeze lettuce wraps filling for up to 2 months (do not freeze the lettuce leaves).
• To Reheat. Reheat gently in the microwave with a bit of water or stock to prevent it from drying out or in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat.

Recommended Tools

• Non-Stick Skillet. A seasoned cast iron skillet works well also.
• Spatula. This heat-resistant spatula is perfect for preparing the filling.
• Measuring Spoons. These spoons are double-sided, meaning you’ll have fewer dishes to wash.

Nutrition

SERVING: 1(of 4) CALORIES: 169kcal CARBOHYDRATES: 21g PROTEIN: 11g FAT: 5g SATURATED FAT: 1g POLYUNSATURATED FAT: 2g MONOUNSATURATED FAT: 2g TRANS FAT: 1g CHOLESTEROL: 1mg POTASSIUM: 683mg FIBER: 4g SUGAR: 8g VITAMIN A: 5035IU VITAMIN C: 6mg CALCIUM: 78mg IRON: 3mg

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A Look Inside More Than a Zoo:

Winter: This special kicks off in early 2025, where guests saw black rhinos, Nia and Jaali, interact as a potential breeding pair. The rhinos support global efforts to protect this critically endangered species. The Zoo’s veterinary teams also use x-ray technology to monitor the health of Cape vultures as part of ongoing avian care. In response to concerns about avian influenza, the Zoo also increased monitoring of bird species that could be impacted by bird flu during 2025, emphasizing prevention and early detection. The season was marked by the sad loss of a Mexican wolf, a reminder of the challenges involved in caring for endangered animals, even with expert attention. Alongside these events, The Living Desert continued its desert tortoise headstarting program, raising young tortoises in protected conditions before releasing them into the wild to strengthen native desert populations.

Spring: Spring at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens was a season of new life and conservation progress, marked by the birth of several animal babies, including two pronghorn fawns and a yellow-footed rock wallaby joey. The arrival of two baby bobcats brought excitement and hope, even as the Zoo mourned the loss of its nearly 23-year-old bobcat, honoring a long life under dedicated care. Conservation successes extended beyond the main campus to the Desert Carnivore Conservation Center, where staff celebrated the arrival of a new sand cat and its careful introduction to a potential mate, supporting breeding efforts for this elusive species and reinforcing the Zoo’s commitment to protecting desert wildlife. The Zoo also opened the new Bighorn Cafe and splash pad to visitors.

Summer: Summer at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens spotlighted expert care and global conservation impact. The season welcomed a new senior veterinarian, Dr. Yousuf Jafarey, who quickly became part of the animal health team and conducted exams, including a notable cheetah checkup. Behind the scenes, desert tortoises in the headstarting program continued to grow strong and healthy before being transferred to their next stage at Edwards Air Force Base, supporting long-term species recovery. Conservation stories also reached far beyond the desert, with highlights on African wild dog conservation and international efforts to combat cheetah trafficking in Somaliland. The summer concluded with joyful news in September, as two baby giraffes were born, adding to a season defined by growth, collaboration, and conservation success.

Fall: Fall at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens showcased growth, discovery, and a look toward the future. The season followed the continued development of the bobcat kittens and the yellow-footed rock wallaby joey as they grew stronger and more independent. Guests were introduced to primates at the Zoo for the first time with the arrival of patas monkeys, expanding the Zoo’s animal family. Fall also invited exploration of the many acres of the Zoo’s gardens and their farm-to-table browse program, which provides fresh, sustainable food for the animals. From the detailed model train exhibit to conversations about what’s ahead—including plans to welcome lions in 2028—the season reflected both the zoo’s present achievements and its exciting future.

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For the past several years, you’ve voted us into the top 10 and we’re so grateful for your support. Will you help us light up the charts again this year?

Vote for The Living Desert daily until the contest closes on Monday, December 1 at 9:00am PST.

Hint: bookmark this page so you can easily vote each day!

Vote For WildLights

New to WildLights? Learn about the Desert’s favorite holiday tradition below!

Presented by the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation, WildLights returns to The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens for its 33rd year! See the Zoo transformed into a shimmering winter wonderland with millions of dazzling lights, illuminated photo ops, including a meet-and-greet with Santa, and holiday cheer around every corner.

Join us on select nights from November 25-December 30 to enjoy…

• Spectacular light displays, walk-through lighted exhibits, a 30-foot-tall Christmas tree, and the G-Scale model train, with 3,300 feet of track, decked out for the holidays
• The opportunity to visit some of the Zoo’s African animals including rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and African painted dogs
• FREE photos with Santa through December 24, and photos with the Grinch from December 26–30
• Nightly holiday music and festive entertainment
• A specialty dinner menu, delectable seasonal treats, plus beer, wine, and holiday cocktails for guests 21+
• S’mores stations and carousel rides (additional fee)
• Numerous festive selfie and family photo-ops throughout the park

Make your plans for a merry and bright holiday today!

The post WildLights Has Been Nominated for Best Zoo Lights 2025! appeared first on The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens.

Introducing… Maisha!

By an overwhelming majority, the winning name for the baby was Maisha, meaning “life” in Swahili. Both her name and spirited presence reflect the vibrant diversity of desert life we work to protect each day.

In total, 309 generous supporters donated, raising nearly $6,500 to support The Living Desert’s mission. As the Zoo does not receive any ongoing tax support, we rely on admissions, programs, and philanthropic gifts to fund the Zoo’s world-class animal care, international conservation, daily operations, and park improvements.

Meet the Ujamma Troop

pronounced: oo-jah-MAH

Named by longtime supporters, Cliff Schneider and Lynn Pazarak, “ujamaa” is a Swahili word symbolizing community and cooperation. It’s a perfect fit for a social species like the patas monkey and a wonderful reminder of the collective effort needed to protect our deserts.

Bibi

pronounced: BEE-bee
The regal matriarch

Often observing the troop peacefully from the back of the habitat, she keeps a watchful eye on Maisha. She can often be spotted watching the warthogs and giraffes in the near distance.

Bibi was generously named by donors Cindy and Eric Lissol and they sweetly chose this name as it means “grandmother” in Tanzanian Swahili.

Naledi

pronounced: nah-LED-ee
Bibi’s daughter and mother of Maisha

Recognizable by her brighter red coat and pale face, Naledi is often found foraging in the open grass areas of the habitat. Her name means “star,” in the Sesotho and Setswana languages, which is fitting she is one of the leaders of the troop.

Kamari

pronounced: ka-MAH-ree
Maisha’s father

Brave, intelligent, and always exploring, Kamari is easy to spot by his darker face markings and the white fur on his legs, almost like tall socks. You’ll often find Maisha running close behind him. His name means “moon” in Swahili.

Maisha

pronounced: my-EE-sha
Naledi’s daughter and the youngest troop member

Her care team describes her as confident, playful, and endlessly curious. She’s often seen leaping from tall rocks, climbing trees, and enjoying her favorite treats: worms, apples, grapes, watermelon, and snap peas.

The post Meet the Troop appeared first on The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens.

This contest is now closed! Thank you so much to everyone who followed along and voted.

She needs a name… and you can help us choose it!

Born on May 3, 2025, the youngest member of our patas monkey family represents the third generation of females in the troop. Though she’s small, she’s mighty! Her Animal Care team notes that she’s endlessly curious and quick to explore. At this young age, she’s learning daily from her mom and grandmother. You can often spot her dashing across the habitat or leaping up the rocks in playful pursuit of her elders.

Now, this little one is ready for something big: an official name!

The post Help Us Name the Baby Patas Monkey! appeared first on The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens.

Now, the wait is (almost) over… Be among the first to meet the troop of patas monkeys! The newly renovated habitat in Village WaTuTu will open to the public on Saturday, November 1 at 10:00am.

Reserve your Zoo tickets now and be a part of this exciting day!

The Patas Monkey Conservation Habitat is generously supported by Squire and Angela Junger.

More about the Monkeys

Meet the Zoo’s newest residents — the patas monkeys, a striking desert species known for their speed, russet-red coats, and iconic mustaches. Native to the savannas and arid grasslands of Africa, these charismatic primates are uniquely suited to life in dry, open landscapes, where they travel in fast-moving troops and navigate the terrain with incredible speed (up to 34 mph!).

Did you know?

• Patas monkeys are the fastest primates in the world!
• Patas monkeys are omnivores. Their diet includes gum from trees (especially acacias), insects, flowers, fruit, seeds, and roots.
• Typical groups have one dominant male with several females and their offspring.
• They don’t spend most of their day high in the trees like many monkeys  —  they’re mostly ground-dwellers, using their long legs to move efficiently across the savanna.
• They rely heavily on body language and facial expressions for communication (especially to avoid alerting predators). While they do have alarm calls, much of their daily communication is visual or tactile.
• Patas monkeys have unique cheek pouches that allow them to store food — as much as their stomachs can hold!

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