Lincoln Park Zoo Welcomes Six Fluffy Alpacas: First Time in Five Years

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Lincoln Park · November 28, 2025

Lincoln Park residents have new neighbors to visit as the zoo recently welcomed a herd of six female alpacas, marking the first time these gentle animals have called the Chicago landmark home since 2019. Starlight, Zsa Zsa, Maya, Sara, Grettle, and Gracie, ranging in age from just 1 to 24 years old, are now settling into the southernmost habitat in the zoo's South Loop area.

"These six ladies have quickly won over their care team with their sweet personalities and friendly demeanors," shared Dan Boehm, Curator at Lincoln Park Zoo. Each alpaca has distinctive markings making them easy for visitors to identify, with Starlight sporting the lightest fur and a curly fleece topknot, while Zsa Zsa has a slightly darker coat with a straight topknot. Native to the Andes Mountains, these social animals are well-equipped for Chicago's climate, with their thick fleece keeping them comfortable during winter months.

Lincoln Park families and animal enthusiasts are encouraged to visit these charming new residents during their next zoo outing. The alpacas join nearly 200 other species at the free-admission landmark, which has been a cornerstone of the neighborhood since 1868 and continues to offer educational opportunities for visitors of all ages throughout the year.

Sources:
1. https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/lincoln-park-zoo-alpacas-2025
2. https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/chicago-lincoln-park-zoo-animals-alpacas/
3. https://chicago.suntimes.com/chicago/2025/06/12/lincoln-park-zoo-welcomes-six-new-alpacas