South American Peccaries First of Their Kind at Evansville Zoo

Let me just tell you that every once in a while, I need to visit a zoo. I need to commune with the animals. I need to see what others who live tens of thousands of miles away from me (or closer) see everyday that I don't.

If you are a zoo fan, then you're like me in being very thankful for the presence of Evansville's Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden. I'm also very pleased that Mesker is constantly bringing new creatures into the fold for all of us eager tri-staters to view and learn from. Last spring the zoo welcomed this magnificent (and critically endangered) Sumatran tiger:

And by the way, to those who say that it would be so much better if these animals could be out in their natural habitat, I say, "You are absolutely right. But zoos are here to also protect these extraordinary beasts." You heard the reporter; Luna's natural habitat is disappearing, and we don't want Luna to disappear. I'm thrilled she has as home and we can go see her.

Mesker Park Zoo Welcomes South American Peccaries For the First Time

Now, let me climb down off my soapbox to introduce you to three Chacoan peccaries that come to Mesker from South America's Gran Chaco region which covers portions of Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Argentina. The largest species of peccary, these Chacoans are here as part of Mesker's Species Survival Plan, and it looks like they love 'em some pumpkins.

Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden is open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM and year-round. So pick a nice day and go introduce yourself to the first Chacoan peccaries to ever set foot (or hoof) on Mesker Park property.

And say hi to Luna while you're there.

20 Fascinating Photos Of Zoo Animals Getting Weighed and Measured

The annual weigh-in at the U.K.'s largest zoo allows zookeepers and veterinarians to record vital statistics and track the health and wellbeing of its more than 10,000 animals.

Gallery Credit: Rob Carroll