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Meet Jody, the Papaya Loving Black Rhino

April 22, 2020

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From 💩 to papaya, she is the ultimate recycler.

Rhino poop grows a papaya tree at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Jody is a 31-year old rhino at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay who loves papayas, and fruit. Her love of this seeded fruit was very evident in the rhino poop that is a part of Busch Gardens’ composting efforts. In fact, over 3 million pounds of manure is recycled at the park’s state-certified composting site annually.

Rhino poop grows a papaya tree at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

In 2018, animal care experts noticed a small papaya plant growing in the compost area. The seedling was relocated closer to Jody’s habitat, in the hope that it would one day grow into a fruit-bearing tree. 

Rhino poop grows a papaya tree at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Two years later – the tree is thriving and offers Jody a delicious and nutritious snack!

Fireworks from the Festival Field

Top Fireworks Viewing Locations Around the Park

December 21, 2020 by Taylor M., Busch Gardens

From the Festival Field to Cheetah Hunt Plaza, there are so many places to watch fireworks at our park!

Fall Into Daytime Fun and Nighttime Frights at Busch Gardens

October 14, 2020

If you’re searching for fun things to do this fall around Tampa Bay, you don’t have to look any further than Busch Gardens.

Sydney, an Echidna Puggle

Meet Sydney: an Echidna Puggle

July 24, 2020

Our newest arrival is also one of the rarest zoo babies around!

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