“CÔNG THỊ TAI NƠ” – A VERY SPECIAL RACCOON AT SAIGON ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDENS

A 100% Real Stowaway Journey In late September 2020, at a warehouse in Ho Chi Minh City, workers opened a container of frozen beef imported from the United States, kept at –18°C. Inside, they discovered an unexpected stowaway—Công Thị Tai Nơ. For 35 days at sea, hidden among the frozen cargo, Công Thị Tai Nơ had survived the journey, likely feeding on the stored meat. With no passport and no visa, she became the most extraordinary traveler of that voyage. Soon after, Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens coordinated with the relevant authorities to receive and care for her, granting her “resident status” and a new home in the heart of the city.

THE MINIATURE HORSE FAMILY

One morning, as sunlight gently filtered through the ancient trees, the Horse Stable area came alive with activity. At the center of the yard stood Thị Mai, a miniature horse with a glossy coat of white and reddish-brown, her ears flicking at the surrounding sounds. Small yet remarkably strong, miniature horses were once used to pull carts, valued for their endurance and adaptability. Their gentle nature, intelligence, and surprising sturdiness never fail to impress.

THE GIRAFFE FAMILY

“Gentle Giants” of the Green Garden Giraffes stand out with their long necks and golden-brown coats patterned with unique patches. None of them share the same design. Each pattern is like a unique "fingerprint," creating a distinct identity for each member of the family.

THE CAPYBARA FAMILY

The capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris), often called the water guinea pig, is the largest rodent on Earth. In the wild, it inhabits rivers, swamps, and floodplains, thriving in semi-aquatic environments where its strong swimming skills are essential for survival. With their round bodies, short legs, and serene expressions, capybaras are widely loved for their calm and sociable nature. Their remarkable ability to get along with other species has even earned them the charming nickname “the Ministers of Foreign Affairs” of the animal world.