San Diego Zoo Welcomes First Koala Joey In Two Years

The San Diego Zoo has introduced a new female koala joey named Inala, marking the first joey born at the zoo in two years and celebrating a century of partnership with the Taronga Conservation Society Australia. Inala, which means 'place of peace' in a language from Queensland, has begun to venture outside her mother Adori's pouch and is adjusting to her surroundings. The zoo emphasizes its commitment to endangered species, particularly koalas, which face threats from habitat fragmentation and bushfires. Since the arrival of the first two koalas as a gift from Sydney's children in 1925, the San Diego Zoo has developed the largest koala population outside Australia and operates a successful breeding program. Inala's growth is closely monitored, as she transitions from nursing to tasting eucalyptus leaves. The zoo aims to ensure a strong genetic population for the future, highlighting its role in conservation efforts.