Koalas Brumby and Willum make their Brookfield Zoo debut

Brookfield Zoo has finally welcomed two new furry friends from the land down under, koalas Brumby and Willum.

The cuddly marsupials arrived at the zoo on June 10 after months of anticipation and are acclimating to their new environment, according to a statement from the zoo. Brumby and Willum were born in 2022 at the San Diego Zoo, where they spent their first two years. 

Brumby and Willum are the first koalas to call the Brookfield Zoo home in its 90-year history, according to the zoo. The adorable creatures’ journey to the Midwest was made possible through a loan partnership with the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and San Diego Zoo’s Koala Education and Conservation Project.

The koalas will have plenty of time to relax, rest, and explore in their new habitat. The critters will receive a rotating selection of eucalyptus leaves to munch on, ensuring their special dietary needs are met. 

“We are thrilled to have Willum and Brumby at Brookfield Zoo Chicago,” said Mark Wanner, associate vice president of animal care and conservation in a statement.

“Many visiting will never have the opportunity to see koalas in their native land. We hope seeing them here at the Zoo, guests will develop a respect and appreciation for them and wildlife around the world.”

Guests can visit Brumby and Willum at the Brookfield Zoo’s Hammil Family Play Zoo during normal visiting hours. Visit the Brookfield Zoo’s official site to purchase tickets and get involved with koala conservation through the zoo’s animal adoption program.