One of St. Louis’ biggest celebrities will celebrate their birthday later this month at River’s Edge at the St. Louis Zoo.
Raja, the first Asian elephant born at the St. Louis Zoo will celebrate his 25th birthday by stomping on special presents designed by zoo staff on Dec. 27.
The presents that Raja will be opening are filled with some of his favorite things, including cereal, melons, bananas, and popcorn. In addition, large trees will be provided for the elephants to push over and encourage natural browsing. The birthday party will also be celebrated with other elephants from the family with access to treats of their own in River’s Edge.
Zoo staff said as long as the weather holds up, visitors are encouraged to celebrate the big guy’s birthday by cheering him on as he enjoys his birthday party.
“We’re very excited to celebrate Raja’s birthday,” said Martha Fischer, curator of Mammals/Ungulates, St. Louis Zoo. “It seems like it was just yesterday when Raja was born and from that day forward he’s been beloved by so many.”
From 10:30 to 11 a.m. (weather permitting), zookeepers will provide keeper chats and animal training demonstrations at the elephant habitats.
After the celebration, visitors can sign a super-sized birthday card and learn more about the elephants and elephant conservation through keeper chats, activities and biofacts until 1 p.m. at Lakeside Cafe. Birthday cupcakes and hot chocolate will be available for purchase.
For more information, visit stlzoo.org/raja.