Columbia Star

New arrivals and upcoming adventures await at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden



Riverbanks Zoo and Garden continues its mission to connect people with nature through a packed late-summer lineup of events, new animal residents, and hands-on opportunities for conservation impact. From celebrating pollinators to welcoming fresh faces to the zoo family, Riverbanks invites guests to make the most of the season.

Newest Residents

Suci the Sumatran Tiger: Suci, (pronounced: Su-chee) arrived from Memphis Zoo as part of the Sumatran Tiger Species Survival Plan (SSP), a collaborative effort to protect this critically endangered species. She is officially in the tiger habitat and making herself right at home.

Wallaby joey named Sherman: It’s a boy! The Tammar wallaby joey seen exploring the Kangaroo Walkabout has been confirmed as male, and after a public naming contest, is officially known as Sherman. The name is a reference to “P. Sherman 42 Wallaby Way” from Finding Nemo. Guests will have an opportunity to see Sherman grow and explore daily in his habitat.

Nadya the Sand Cat: A 10-year-old female Sand Cat has taken up residence in the Conservation Outpost tunnel. She’s ready to charm guests with her elusive desert-dwelling ways.

Calendar of Events

Toucan Tuesdays—Running every Tuesday through August 12, Riverbanks continues its Toucan Tuesdays promotion in partnership with Harvest Hope Food Bank. Guests who donate two non-perishable food items will receive buy-one-get-one admission and BOGO regular-sized ICEEs.

Pollinator Plant Pack Sale returns August 1—Riverbanks will launch online sales for its ever-popular Pollinator Plant Packs, a curated collection of low-maintenance, pollinator-friendly plants that support local biodiversity. Pickup is scheduled for September 20, from 8–10 a.m. at Riverbanks Botanical Garden.

Brew at the Zoo, August 1, 7–9:30 p.m.—Back for its 20th year, this sell-out event features over 100 brews, 60 vendors, food trucks, and live music under the stars.

Members’ Night Out, Friday, September 5, 6–9 p.m.—An exclusive evening just for members. Enjoy after-hours access to the zoo, family-friendly activities, and special member-only perks.

Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects® made with LEGO® Bricks, September 14– February 20—This exhibition features larger than-life sculptures crafted entirely from LEGO® bricks. Located in Riverbanks Botanical Garden, the designs explore themes like animal endangerment, ecosystems, and the intersection of art and nature.

ZOOfari: A Wild Fundraising Night, September 26, 7–10:30 p.m.—South Carolina’s wildest party with a purpose returns. Tickets on sale August 1 (member pre-sale) and August 8 (public).

For more details on these and other events, visit riverbanks.org.

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