Denver Zoo Celebrates Rare Pregnancy as Tamandua Expecting First Baby in Over a Decade
The Denver Zoo is preparing for an exciting arrival after confirming that Winnie, the zoo’s 7-year-old southern tamandua, is pregnant — marking the first tamandua pregnancy at the zoo in more than ten years. Tamanduas, a smaller tree-dwelling species of anteater, are known for their long snouts, sticky tongues, and powerful claws used for opening insect nests. Winnie has become a guest favorite, and now she’s about to become a mom.
According to the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, Winnie participates in her own healthcare through voluntary training sessions, allowing her to comfortably receive injections and ultrasounds. During one of her routine ultrasounds in October, the veterinary team confirmed the pregnancy. Since then, keepers and veterinarians have continued monitoring her progress with regular checkups.
The father, Santiago, came to Denver from the Nashville Zoo as part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan — a coordinated breeding effort designed to strengthen genetic diversity among animals in human care. Together, Winnie and Santiago represent an important contribution to the species’ long-term health and conservation.
Winnie is expected to give birth in early 2026. Guests who want to support her can join the zoo’s “Walk with Winnie” experience, which helps keep her active, healthy, and comfortable during her pregnancy.
The countdown to Denver’s newest tamandua is officially underway — and zoo visitors will soon get to welcome one of the most unique babies in Colorado.
