Sink Your Teeth In 🦁🐘🦷

Wildlife needs dental care too NOTES FROM THE FIELD | 2025 | No. 13

Some teeth grow continuously throughout an animal's life, like those of an elephant. Other teeth, such as a lion's, are so sharp they slice effortlessly and precisely through their food. Then there are teeth that just seem downright bizarre. But no matter their shape or function—pearly, elongated incisors and razor-sharp fangs alike—they require the same expert-level care for long, healthy lives. After all, a healthy mouth is essential for eating, grooming, and more. Interestingly, certain primates even use them to socialize and communicate with their troop. That's why dental care plays a crucial part in our holistic approach to wildlife health and conservation. Whether it's routine cleanings and complex procedures, our wildlife care teams undertake some of the most unique toothy tasks in the intriguing world of wildlife. Our work goes far beyond the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We take what we learn here as we care for wildlife and apply it to save, protect, and care for species worldwide through our eight Conservation Hubs. Let's go behind-the-scenes and discover just what goes into keeping all kinds of teeth in tip-top shape.

TOOTHY TALES

NOT-SO-SPOOKY SPECIES Looks can be deceiving. Without size on their side, some smaller species rely on astonishingly creative, and sometimes chilling, strategies for hunting and survival. Explore the unusual tactics of assassin bugs, tarantula hawks, and more, and see how the truth is often stranger than fiction.

MACABRE MASTERS

GIVE AND TAKE Not all wildlife behaviors are quite as gruesome, but they still may seem a little strange. Nature's partnerships are as surprising as they are fascinating. From sloths and moths to crocodiles and plovers, these eerie alliances are more treat than trick, and the unexpected collaborations might just give you a new appreciation for teamwork.

IT'S MUTUAL

READY FOR ANYTHING As the moon rises over the Safari Park, one dedicated team's workday is just beginning. Supplied with red flashlights, drones, and more, overnight wildlife care specialists are ready to monitor around 1,800 acres and more than 3,000 animals. Grab your night vision goggles and see how no two nights are the same at the Safari Park.

WORKING LATE

Your monthly gift will make a world of difference for wildlife. , your ongoing support makes a lifesaving difference for fascinating—and sometimes strange—species. As a Wildlife Hero, your monthly gift will take us further as we provide innovative care for wildlife and share knowledge with our partners across the globe. And as a Wildlife Hero, your support will renew hope for the extraordinary wildlife relying on us to thrive—and survive—each and every day. You make it all possible, and we're forever grateful for you. WILDLIFE HEROES CHANGE THE WORLD.

BE A HERO

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Your support saves wildlife. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is an international conservation nonprofit and a registered 501(c)(3) organization. Tax ID# 95-1648219. With more than 100 years of wildlife care expertise and partnerships around the globe, we are saving, protecting, and caring for species worldwide. Follow along on our mission to save wildlife

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