Meet Sonries

August 16, 2026

Chapter 1: Welcome, Sonries!

There’s a new face at Happy Hollow Park & Zoo—and while visitors won’t see him on exhibit just yet, it’s time for an introduction.

Meet Sonries the jaguar, Happy Hollow’s newest family member!

Sonries’ arrival marks the return of jaguars to Happy Hollow after more than a year and begins an exciting new chapter in the zoo’s efforts to inspire conservation by helping guests connect with these amazing animals.

Sonries has joined Happy Hollow from the LA Zoo, through the recommendation of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Jaguar Species Survival Plan (SSP), a collaborative population management program that helps maintain healthy, genetically diverse populations of jaguars throughout accredited zoos in North America.

Getting Comfortable in a New Home

Just like people, every animal experiences a big move differently. A new home brings new sights, new sounds, new caretakers and new daily routines. Before Sonries begins exploring his outdoor habitat where guests can see him, Happy Hollow’s animal care team is giving him the time he needs to become comfortable in his new surroundings and establish the routines that will support his lifelong care.

Using positive reinforcement training, Sonries’ keepers are helping him build confidence through predictable daily interactions. Rather than following a set timeline, the process moves at Sonries’ pace, allowing him to show when he’s ready for each new step.

While guests may be eager to meet him, this behind-the-scenes period is an important part of helping Sonries thrive for years to come.

Follow along over the coming weeks for milestones, behind-the-scenes moments, enrichment activities, fun zookeeper observations and glimpses of the dedicated team helping Sonries feel at home. And when Sonries is ready to meet guests, you’ll be among the first to know!

Welcome to Happy Hollow, Sonries!

Follow Along

This is Chapter 1 of the Meet Sonries series.

Meet Sonries: Chapter 2 coming soon