# @denverzoo on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DbG4X4riSZS
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/68169162-denverzoo-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/ea8b822685.jpg
- **Posted:** 2026-07-22T19:50:28.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (@denverzoo) — https://gondola.cc/denverzoo

## Caption

🐾 Happy #NationalZookeeperWeek! Today we're introducing Krystin Maloney, Animal Care Specialist here at DZCA. 

Krystin has been a zookeeper for nearly 12 years and is approaching her 10-year anniversary at DZCA this fall. And her tattoo is a tribute to a bird who taught her some of the most important lessons of her career. 

🦅 Tucson the bay-winged hawk is 22 years old and one of the most meaningful animals Krystin has ever worked with. 

Tucson is shyer than his female counterpart, Sonora, and building a trusting relationship with him required patience. 

About six years ago that patience was tested in the most profound way. Tucson injured his wing and needed surgery and rehabilitation and it was their bond that helped him through it. 

"Our relationship gave him the chance of recovering his ability to fly and taught me patience and commitment to a goal." 

Tucson and Sonora live behind the scenes as part of our Animal Ambassador team, but you just might spot them during Wild Encounters around the Zoo! 🌿 

#NationalZookeeperWeek #ZookeeperAppreciationWeek #DenverZooConservationAlliance #AnimalCare #SavingWildlifeTogether ninjakixxtattoo

## Stats

- **Views:** 0
- **Likes:** 390
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- **Comments:** 1

## Tags

zookeeperappreciationweek, nationalzookeeperweek, savingwildlifetogether, animalcare, denverzooconservationalliance

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