Feathered and Furry Snowy Footprints Abound at Lincoln Park Zoo

Chicago (February 21, 2025) – Just like a true Chicagoan, many species at Lincoln Park Zoo are adapted to blustery weather and many choose to brave the cold—whether for business (fresh air) or pleasure (heated rocks). Zookeepers have been documenting some of the foot, talon, and paw prints left in the fresh snow. See below for images of the prints, along with the winter-loving animals behind them! High resolution images are also available here.

Welfare is one of the zoo’s top priorities and that means ensuring the animals in the zoo’s care are comfortable and able to enjoy time indoors and outdoors during all four seasons in Chicago. When visitors see an animal outside in the snow or cold temperatures, that’s because the animal is choosing to be there; if they want to get out of the elements, they always have the option to go inside. Many outdoor habitats also have warming and protective elements outdoors such as climate-controlled spaces and pools, heated rocks, and more.

“Making sure the animals at Lincoln Park Zoo are safe and comfortable is our number one goal all year long. We adjust our care plans with the changing of Chicago’s seasons, and we love to see certain species thriving in the snowier months,” said General Curator Dave Bernier. “Plus, we’ve made a fun game out of matching the footprints to the species or individual every winter!”

About Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation, animal care and welfare, learning, and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, the not-for-profit Lincoln Park Zoo is a privately-managed, member-supported organization and is free and open 365 days a year. Visit us at lpzoo.org.