News and Stories

Final phase of Elephant Trek opens Monday, April 14

CINCINNATI (April 14, 2025) – Starting Monday, visitors will be able to see Asian small–clawed otters, Siamang gibbons*, rhinoceros hornbills, and some incredible landscaping in an all-new area in the Harry and Linda Fath Elephant Trek.

Photos and videos

“We opened the main part of Elephant Trek in October, and visitors have enjoyed seeing our herd of eight Asian elephants inside and out since then,” said Cincinnati Zoo director Thane Maynard.  “This new area offers another great view of the elephants and opportunities to see other species native to Asia up close.”

Visitors will enjoy watching the playful otters, Munti and Flounder, from multiple viewing spots.  Vocalizations from Siamangs Sebastian and Berbak, which can be heard as far as two miles away, will grab attention, as will the impressive way they move.  Both pairs have breeding recommendations from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), so little ones could be in the Zoo’s future.

A variety of interactive elements in the new area have been incorporated to educate visitors about the animals they are seeing, elephant conservation, and the important of human-wildlife coexistence:

• The Tea Garden highlights the role of tea farms in elephant habitats and promotes awareness of “elephant-friendly” farming practices that help reduce conflicts.
• The Buzzing Bee Box simulates the sound of bees, demonstrating how farmers in Africa and Asia use beehive fences to deter elephants from raiding crops.
• Pose Like a Siamang Photo Op, where visitors mimic the unique movement of siamangs.
• You “Otter” Know What’s for Lunch Game, which challenges guests to identify food by touch, just like Asian small-clawed otters.
•  The Tom Yum Soup Garden, inspired by the work that our partners at Bring the Elephant Home (BTEH) are doing, showcases key ingredients in this Thai dish, explaining how growing these crops can deter elephants from farmlands while supporting local economies.

Cincinnati Zoo members can take advantage of their Early Entry perk and be the first to enter the new area of Elephant Trek as early as 9 a.m. on April 1.   Join the Zoo family! Cincinnati Zoo Memberships, sponsored by Thomas & Galbraith, are on sale now – April 30.

Enjoy Zoo Blooms, sponsored by Delta Dental, while you’re here!  The 110,000 tulips are in peak bloom right now!

Download the new mobile app featuring a GPS-enabled digital map to find your favorite animals, food locations, and to receive special announcements.