ATASCADERO — Join the Charles Paddock Zoo in celebrating Menderu, the Zoo’s Malayan Tiger, on Saturday, April 29 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. as he turns 15 years old.

Expect to enjoy a variety of activities for the kids, keeper talks, raffles and, of course, sweet treats — generously donated by G & R Cakes and Bakes. Menderu will be receiving his birthday present at 11:30 a.m. Commemorative apparel is available for purchase through the zoo’s website charlespaddockzoo.org/shop/

The Malayan tiger is a national symbol and a priority conservation target in Malaysia. In the 1950s, Malaysia was estimated to have as many as 3,000 tigers. However, loss of habitat due to rapid development, agriculture expansion and widespread hunting, has caused the population to decline to fewer than 150 individuals as of 2022. Malayan Tigers are critically endangered and AZA accredited Zoos work together raising awareness to protect these beautiful animals in captivity and in the wild. 

Over 200 animal species to enjoy at the Zoo. Many of the Zoo residents are part of a globally managed program to preserve animals and their habitats. The Zoo features several unique species not often seen in facilities of our size, including fossa, red pandas, Malayan tiger, lemurs and meerkats, as well as many other exciting and interesting mammals, birds, reptiles and insects. Plus experience the animals up close. Unique gifts, as well as refreshments and strollers are available at the zoo gift shop. Adjacent to the Atascadero Lake Park, the Zoo is the perfect destination for a day of fun, education and relaxation.

This birthday celebration is included with General Admission. Tickets are $12 Adults age 13+, $10 Seniors age 65+, $8 Children 5-12, $5 Children 3-4, and free for Kids 2 & under. The Charles Paddock Zoo is an accredited Zoo by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums and is SLO County’s only Zoo. Open Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and located at Atascadero Lake Park on Hwy 41/Morro Road, one mile west of Hwy 101.