National Zoo to Announce Names of American Bison

WHAT: Media preview and name reveal of the National Zoo's two female American bison. The American Bison Exhibit opens to the public Aug. 30.

WHEN: Wednesday, Aug. 27

9:30 a.m.

WHERE: Smithsonian's National Zoo

3001 Connecticut Ave. N.W.

Park in the Bus Parking Lot, in the left lane perpendicular to the bushes.

Leave media credentials on your vehicle dashboard. Entering the Zoo from Connecticut Avenue, the Bus Parking Lot is the first lot on the right. The entrance to the Bison Exhibit is located just past the restrooms on the left side of Olmsted Walk.

WHO: Brandie Smith, senior curator of mammals, Smithsonian's National Zoo
Leighton Watson, student body president, Howard University
Andrew Morrill, student body president, Gallaudet University

Two female American bison now reside at the Smithsonian's National Zoo in honor of the park's 125th anniversary celebration. It was this animal that started the Zoo's living collection and sparked the conservation movement. Howard University and Gallaudet University students chose the names for the Zoo's bison. Both universities have a special connection to the species, which serves as their mascots. Curator Steve Sarro and animal keepers Juan Rodriguez and Marty Dearie will be available for interviews following the naming announcement.

The bison will enter their exhibit at 10 a.m., at which time media will be invited to capture b-roll and interview Zoo staff.

If planning to attend, RSVP to Jen Zoon at zoonj@si.edu or (202) 633-3079.