Saint Louis Zoo this week is displaying its first-ever Animal Ofrenda in observance of Día de los Muertos.
An ofrenda is an altar displayed during the traditional Mexican and Latin American celebration of Día de los Muertos (The Day of the Dead) to honor cherished loved ones who have passed away. The Zoo’s first ofrenda celebrates the lives of both staff pets and the Zoo animals of St. Louis. Animal Care staff provided photos in memory of Zoo animals who they have cared for and loved over decades and our entire Zoo staff submitted pictures of cherished pets who have passed away.
The Zoo altar includes the traditional pictures, marigolds, sugar skulls, alebrijes (Mexican folklore sculptures,) food and items important to the animals honored including plants and treats they loved.
"So many of us know the profound experience and impact of losing an animal we have cared for,” said Regina Mossotti, Vice President of Animal Care at Saint Louis Zoo. “And this ofrenda is an opportunity for our Zoo community to remember, celebrate, and honor the animals’ lives.”
We'd like to thank all members of Zoo staff and community consultant Dr. Jennifer Alanis who worked hard to bring this meaningful tradition to the Zoo for the first time.
The ofrenda will be on display to the public in the lower rotunda of the Living World Building during Zoo hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1.
Members of the media can contact pr@stlzoo.org for more information.