Magdalena, a six-year old who arrived last spring, is Lehigh Valley Zoo’s female Mexican Gray Wolf. Mollete is the father of both Stratus and Garza.

During the past few months, Lehigh Valley Zoo has worked diligently with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) under its Species Survival Program (SSP) for Mexican Gray Wolves to find the best pack members for Magdalena. The Mexican Gray Wolf SSP works in conjunction with U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service for the conservation of this species. This makes the Lehigh Valley Zoo an important partner in the effort to provide space for Mexican Gray Wolves to increase their numbers in zoos and in their native habitats.

While this process can be quite lengthy, it helps ensure that Magdalena is paired with the best pack-mates genetically and personality-wise. After searching through multiple options, it was determined that Mollete and his two sons would be an ideal recommended match. The Zoo will continue to work with the SSP to be considered as a site for breeding in future years.

Once on site, an introduction process between the pack members was safely conducted behind the scenes to get the new members acquainted with one another. Now that they have passed their introduction process, they can go on exhibit and explore their new habitat! At this time, we request guests remain quiet when approaching the exhibit as our pack members adjust; as silence will best increase the opportunity to see the wolves.

Lehigh Valley Zoo is one of approximately 50 zoos and conservation centers helping to rehabilitate Mexican Gray Wolves. This subspecies was nearly brought to extinction by widespread trapping and poisoning in the early 1900s. After reintroducing Mexican Gray Wolves, there are more than 113 in the wild and approximately 300 in the captive breeding program. By supporting AZA accredited zoos and aquariums, you can help save species like the Mexican Gray Wolf.

To see the newest pack, be sure to visit Lehigh Valley Zoo by purchasing tickets at lvzoo.org/ticketing.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but as a treasured community landmark, the Zoo’s history spans over a century. Founded in 1906 by General Harry C. Trexler, a local industrialist, the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Game Preserve has educated and entertained more than five million people.

Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. With a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook @LVZOO.