Ever seen a sea lion strut through a summer festival? Or spotted a giraffe giving high-fives? At the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, we’ve got a wild crew of larger-than-life personalities who aren’t just animals—they’re Character Ambassadors!

These playful, animated conservation "spokescritters" represent some of the most fascinating species on the planet. You’ll see them making special appearances throughout the Zoo and out in the community—spreading smiles, teaching conservation, and showing off their dance moves. Each one is full of personality (and yes, some even know sign language!), and they’re always joined by a team of Zoo staff members who help bring the fun wherever they go.

Let’s learn more about them! We’ll share their “personality,” give you cool facts about the species they represent, and highlight small ways you can make a big difference for animals—right from your own home.

So let’s jump in! Your new wild friends can’t wait to meet you.

Cali Sea Lion

Cali is full of flip-flops and fun! Whether she’s zipping through the water or barking out greetings, she’s always the life of the (sea) party. Her powerful front flippers help her zoom underwater and waddle adorably on land—and trust us, she’s got moves.

Did You Know?

• California sea lions love to hang out along sandy beaches, rocky coastlines, and even man-made spots like piers and buoys.
• They’re seriously chatty! From barking and grunting to growling and squealing, they’ve got a whole sea-symphony of sounds—especially during breeding season.
• Moms and pups recognize each other by sound, smell, and sight—pretty impressive teamwork!
• Mama sea lions get feisty around birthing time, so their sounds change to match their mood.

What You Can Do: Sea lions sometimes mistake plastic trash for food. You can help by saying no to single-use plastics and using reusable bags and bottles instead!

Jama Giraffe

Jama is tall, elegant, and a total leaf-lover. She strolls the savanna with grace, keeping a lookout for her friends and reaching the tastiest treetop snacks with ease.

Did You Know?

• Giraffes live in open woodlands and grassy areas, where they blend right in—well, as much as a 16-foot-tall animal can.
• They’re not as quiet as you might think! Giraffes grunt, whistle, snort, and may even communicate with sounds too low for humans to hear.

What You Can Do: Learning about animals like Jama helps us understand what they need to thrive. The more we know, the more we can protect them!

Manny Manatee

Manny is a mellow fellow who takes life one gentle splash at a time. He glides through warm, shallow waters in search of his favorite leafy meals—and when he’s full, he might just take a nap underwater! (Don’t worry, he comes up for air when he needs it.)

Did You Know?

• Florida manatees love chill waters like rivers, estuaries, canals, and shallow coastlines.
• They’re built for both fresh and saltwater living, making them super flexible travelers.
• Manatees squeak and squeal to talk to each other, especially moms and calves. They even use snout-to-snout touches to say “hello!”

What You Can Do: Manatees need clean water to survive. You can help by always picking up trash, recycling, and keeping waterways pollution-free.

Max Elephant

Max is a gentle giant with a giant heart. With his curious trunk and wise eyes, he’s always exploring, helping his herd, and sniffing out his favorite snacks. He never forgets a friend—and if you meet him, he might just remember you too!

Did You Know?

• Asian elephants live in forests, grasslands, and scrublands where there’s plenty of greenery to munch on.
• They “talk” through deep rumbles, trumpets, and even vibrations that travel through the ground.
• Max uses his trunk to smell and touch, learning all about his world—and the other elephants in it.

What You Can Do: You can be like Max by exploring your own backyard! Discover what animals share your habitat and how you can protect them.

Patriot Eagle

Patriot loves to soar high and take it all in from above. With sharp eyes and even sharper talons, this raptor is fierce, focused, and full of pride.

Did You Know?

• Bald eagles stick close to lakes, rivers, and coastlines—anywhere they can find fish and tall trees for nesting.
• That dramatic eagle scream you hear in movies? It’s usually a red-tailed hawk sound! Bald eagles actually have a softer, squawkier call.

What You Can Do: Spotting a bald eagle in the wild is magical. If you see one in Ohio, watch from a respectful distance—wild animals need space to thrive!

Polly Polar Bear

Polly is cool—literally! She’s the queen of the cold, splashing in icy water and turning snowy strolls into comedy routines. Don’t let her playful spirit fool you—her powerful paws and sharp senses help her survive in some of the harshest places on Earth.

Did You Know?

• Polar bears live on Arctic sea ice and use cracks in the ice to find their prey.
• They communicate with puffs, chuffs, and other friendly sounds when they meet other bears.

What You Can Do: Polly’s biggest challenge is melting sea ice. You can help by learning about climate change and making small choices—like conserving energy at home!

Sam Pelican

Sam is one social bird! He loves gliding just above the water, fishing with friends, and cruising around like a feathered boat captain. He’s not much of a diver—but he sure can scoop!

Did You Know?

• American white pelicans stick to wetlands and coasts, and they rely on clean, healthy water to find their food.
• They work together in groups to herd fish before scooping them up in their giant bills.

What You Can Do: Help protect water habitats by using fewer chemicals outside and keeping trash out of storm drains. Clean water is key for Sam and his flock.

Sydnee Koala

Sydnee is a sleepy sweetheart who loves tree-climbing and eucalyptus-snacking. She spends most of her day dreaming in the treetops—and if you’re lucky, you might hear her bellow hello!

Did You Know?

• Koalas live in eucalyptus forests and use sound, scent, and touch to communicate.
• Males have a special chest gland to mark their favorite trees.
• Even though their eyesight isn’t the best, their noses help them sniff out the yummiest leaves.

What You Can Do: No matter where you live, you can help koalas by planting native flowers and trees for your local wildlife!

Tommy C. Turtle

Tommy is a laid-back ocean explorer who’s seen it all—from coral reefs to coastal caves. Now that he’s older, he prefers the peaceful waters where he can snack on sponges and relax in the sunshine.

Did You Know?

• Hawksbill sea turtles stick to shallow waters around reefs, rocks, and mangroves.
• They often return to the same resting spots and communicate through touch and body movements.

What You Can Do: Coral reefs need Hawksbill turtles—and turtles need healthy oceans. Reduce your plastic use and support clean oceans to help creatures like Tommy thrive!

A Wild Thank You!

Thanks for getting to know our Character Ambassadors! While their personalities are full of fun, the animals they represent face real challenges in the wild. Whether you’re switching to a reusable water bottle or planting native flowers in your yard, every little step you take helps protect wildlife and their habitats.

Keep learning, keep exploring—and keep your eyes open the next time you visit the Zoo. You never know when one of these wild characters will pop up to say hello!

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