Come to the zoo and celebrate with Missy on June 30! 

Happy birthday, Missy! One of Cheyenne Mountain Zoo's (CMZoo) favorite ladies is going to be the main attraction on June 30! Missy the elephant is turning 50 and going strong, say zookeepers. In fact, she's surpassed the median life expectancy for female elephants living in zoos by around 12 years and is in great health. 

"Our oldest CMZoo resident, Missy, is turning 50 this year! Not only is she the oldest animal here, but she's also one of the oldest African elephants in the country," says the zoo.  

You can help her celebrate her milestone birthday with activities, feeding opportunities, a themed photo booth, and more. You can also help build an elephant-sized birthday cake comprised of Missy's favorite snacks. Keepers will be on hand to teach guests about Missy and the CMZoo African elephant herd.

"We will have activities and stations designed for both children and adults set up throughout Encounter Africa on Sunday, June 30. Come out and celebrate this special occasion with us!" says the zoo's Facebook page. 

The birthday celebration, co-sponsored by Children's Hospital Colorado, will be held at the zoo this Sunday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The events are covered by the cost of admission into the zoo (feeding opportunities available at an extra fee – see below).

Birthday Bash Festivities, Sunday, June 30:

10:10 a.m.: Missy and LouLou Enrichment. Watch as Missy and her favorite friend enjoy birthday enrichment activities. 

10:45 a.m.: Keepers Caring for Elephants Keeper Talk. You can also write a message to Missy and take a free photo with elephant-themed props. 

11-11:30 a.m.: Feed Missy the Elephant (paid event: $10-$15 per feeding)

11:30 a.m.: Missy Gets Her Birthday Cake. Sing her happy birthday and watch her dig into her favorite treats.

Check out more information about the event, and be sure to wish Missy a happy birthday and many healthy years to come!