LOUISVILLE, Ky. —

Honoring and remembering zoo animals that have passed away, the Louisville Zoo hosts a Dia de los Muertos celebration.

Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a traditional celebration in Mexico that pays respect to friends and family members who have died. In preparation for the holiday, home alters, called ofrendas, are created and decorated with photos and memorabilia of those who have died.

Zoo guests were able to submit photos, drawings, letters, cards and other small symbolic items to honor pets who have passed. Zoo staff did the same for the zoo animals that have passed.

Among the animals honored were 41-year-old white rhinoceros Sindi, who died in March 2025, and 36-year-old orangutan Teak, who died in March of 2024.

Both the Zoo Staff and the Beloved Pet

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