Maggie is known for creating art with her paws
CARLSBAD, NM – The New Mexico State Parks will celebrate the 20th birthday of Carlsbad local legend Maggie the Bear this Saturday, January 18, at Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park.
Maggie’s story began when she was orphaned as a one-month-old cub and raised by a wildlife rehabilitator in Missouri. She arrived at Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park at five months old and has since charmed visitors with her signature paw-painting hobby, which started as a form of behavioral enrichment. As she turns 20, Maggie’s journey has become an inspiring testament to wildlife rehabilitation and the bond between animals and their human caregivers.
“Maggie’s 20th birthday is a celebration of her life, and a reminder of the important work being done by State Parks staff to support wildlife conservation and rehabilitation,” said EMNRD Sec. Designate Melanie Kenderdine.
CARLSBAD, NM – The New Mexico State Parks will celebrate the 20th birthday of Carlsbad local legend Maggie the Bear this Saturday, January 18, at Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park.
This is a great opportunity for families to enjoy a day of fun activities while also celebrating the incredible life of Maggie, the zoo’s black bear who has become famous for her unique ability to create art with her paws.
Maggie’s story began when she was orphaned as a one-month-old cub and raised by a wildlife rehabilitator in Missouri. She arrived at Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park at five months old and has since charmed visitors with her signature paw-painting hobby, which started as a form of behavioral enrichment. As she turns 20, Maggie’s journey has become an inspiring testament to wildlife rehabilitation and the bond between animals and their human caregivers.
“Maggie’s 20th birthday is a celebration of her life, and a reminder of the important work being done by State Parks staff to support wildlife conservation and rehabilitation,” said EMNRD Sec. Designate Melanie Kenderdine.
Event Highlights:
Starting at 10:30 a.m., visitors can participate in fun-filled activities in the Visitor Center. Children can enjoy arts and crafts, sign cards for the birthday bear and compete in a contest to guess Maggie’s weight. There also will be cake.
At 1 p.m., Maggie will receive her birthday present in a special public presentation.
While all activities in the Visitor Center are free, standard fees will be charged to enter the zoo.
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, January 18
- Time: 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Location: Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park, Carlsbad, NM
- Admission: Standard zoo entrance fees apply.
About Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park:
Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park is dedicated to promoting wildlife conservation, offering enriching experiences for visitors and showcasing the natural beauty of New Mexico’s wildlife. With its diverse exhibits and programs, the park has become a cornerstone of education and preservation in the state.
For more information, please visit www.livingdesert.org or click on Find a Park at emnrd.nm.gov/spd.
