Achievements

Since 1985, Marion Zoological has provided foods for the breeding, enrichment, and supplementation needs of over 200 species of rare and endangered animals. Our success with primates, reptiles, and birds has been recognized by authoritative publications, leading rehabilitative organizations, and international veterinary schools.

Scenic Bird Food (1984–1987)

Scenic Bird Food was the first complete manufactured diet for birds. Between 1984 and 1987, it was tested in zoological institutions and fed to nearly 200 species, achieving significant improvements in health, breeding, and chick survival in captivity.

Scenic Hand Rearing Bird Food (1994)

In 1994, Marion Zoological introduced specialized hand-feeding formulas and weaning foods, tested and proven by parrot breeders.

Marion Leaf Eater Food (1988)

Marion Leaf Eater Food was the first complete manufactured diet for leaf-eating primates. It is widely recommended by zoo and wildlife veterinarians as a primary diet for lemurs, colobus, langurs, howler monkeys, gorillas, chimpanzees, gibbons, and orangutans.

Beyond primates, it has also been successfully incorporated into supplemental diets for elephants, giraffes, anteaters, brown bears, sloths, and slow lorises, among others.

Red Panda (1988–1990)

In partnership with Dr. Duane Ullrey and leading zoo professionals, Marion Zoological developed a specialized Leaf Eater diet for Red Pandas and submitted the proposal that led to the creation of the Red Panda Species Survival Plan.

Giant Panda Success at the San Diego Zoo

In 2000 and 2003, the San Diego Zoo celebrated the birth and survival of two Giant Panda cubs—the first ever to survive in captivity outside China’s breeding compounds. Marion Zoological congratulates the Zoo’s exceptionally skilled staff and proudly shares in this landmark achievement.