Red Wolves Launch Re-opening of Montgomery Zoo’s North American Interpretive Trail
Information courtesy of Montgomery Zoo
Photos courtesy of Montgomery Zoo
MONTGOMERY ZOO (Montgomery, AL): The Montgomery Zoo is proud to announce the arrival of two critically endangered American red wolves, Pearl and Sentinel. After settling into their newly refurbished habitat along the North American Interpretive Trail, this exhibit is officially reopened to guests.
Pearl, a 4‑year‑old female from the North Carolina Zoo, and Sentinel, a 3‑year‑old male from the Akron Zoo, arrived in Montgomery in April. Since then, both wolves have been acclimating behind the scenes with the Zoo’s dedicated animal care team, and with each other, as they begin the next chapter of their important conservation journey.
The American red wolf is the most endangered canid species in the world. Today, fewer than 30 remain in the wild, with an additional 200–250 living in managed care at other accredited facilities across the country. Their population has declined sharply over the past century due to habitat loss and human interference.
The Montgomery Zoo is thrilled to be a trusted facility for this pair. Pearl and Sentinel are a non-breeding pair but still serve as a great educational resource for guests. The Montgomery Zoo partnered with the Red Wolf SAFE Program to get Pearl and Sentinel to the facility.
“We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to care for these remarkable animals,” said Dr. Kelsey Hayden, Montgomery Zoo Veterinarian. “Pearl and Sentinel represent hope for their species, and we’re excited to share their journey with our community.”
Pearl has quickly emerged as the confident leader of the pair. Curious, bold, and eager to explore, she wasted no time on her first day in the habitat, scouting every inch of her new home. Guests will likely spot her more frequently, as she is already comfortable being visible throughout the day.
Sentinel, on the other hand, is more reserved. He prefers the quiet comfort of his den during busier daytime hours. The Zoo encourages guests to move quietly through this section of the trail to help both wolves continue to settle in at their own pace.
Pearl and Sentinel’s arrival launches the reopening of the North American Interpretive Trail, a revitalized guest pathway designed to highlight native wildlife and the Zoo’s growing conservation initiatives. The red wolf habitat has been thoughtfully updated to support the wolves’ natural behaviors while providing guests with meaningful opportunities to learn about their story. Guests are encouraged to visit this area while zoo staff continue making updates.
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The Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum is a 42-acre zoological facility located minutes from the heart of historic, downtown Montgomery. The Montgomery Zoo features a variety of exotic animals native to Africa, Asia, Australia, North America, and South America. A trademark addition of the Zoo is the Mann Wildlife Learning Museum, housing the one of the Southeast’s largest collections of preserved North American wildlife, artifacts, and fossils. The Montgomery Zoo is a department of the City of Montgomery.
Located at 2301 Coliseum Parkway Montgomery, AL 36110.
Daily operating hours: 9:30am – 4:30pm, with last admission at 3:30pm.
Admission: Adults $19, Children (3-12 years) $15, Toddlers (2 years and under) FREE, and Seniors 65 years old and older $17.
