The Brookfield Zoo needs your help naming its new Mexican Wolf Pup

A rare Mexican Wolf Pup was recently born at the Brookfield Zoo, and the zoo is asking for the public’s help in naming its new furry friend!

The pup was born on April 27 at the zoo, along with its sister Molly and seven other pups. According to the zoo, Mexican Wolves are the rarest wolf subspecies, with zoos playing a vital role in nurturing and protecting the animals.

According to a statement from the zoo, its animal care experts have selected four names for voters to choose from, carefully choosing names that reflect the species' cultural and geographical heritage in Mexico and the American Southwest.

Voters can vote for one of the following names for the new pup:

Esperanza—Spanish for “hope”—each new litter of pups brings hope that the species will continue to thrive

Alma—Spanish for “soul”—many people have a deep connection with the wolves

Sierra—Spanish for “mountain range” and the Mexican wolf’s historic range includes the Sierra Madre Mountains in Mexico.

Kelly—the namesake of natural landmarks where Mexican wolves have been reintroduced

Voting is now open on the Brookfield Zoo’s site, and polls will remain open until Tuesday, July 2 at 5 p.m. The winning name will be announced on Wednesday, July 3, by the zoo and its partner Visit Oak Park.

“Mexican wolves are an ecologically important species that helps maintain the gentle balance of southwestern ecosystems, yet has been decimated over the years by conflicts with humans and other human-made factors,” said Mark Wanner, associate vice president of animal care and conservation at Brookfield Zoo Chicago.

“We’re thrilled to have Visit Oak Park join us in asking the public to help name one of our youngest Mexican wolves, and share the significance of why this species is so vital to protect.”

All voters will be automatically entered in a raffle to win a four-pack of admission tickets and a parking pass to the Brookfield Zoo. The winning voter will also receive a one-night stay at the Four Points by Sheraton in Westchester and a $100 gift card from Irish Times Pub & Restaurant in Brookfield!