New bovine resident of SF Teaching Zoo adds important conservation focus
November 9, 2026
The Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo is welcoming a new resident with a unique conservation story. “Gabby,” a Pineywoods cow, is joining the animals in the zoo's care, introducing visitors to a rare heritage cattle breed with centuries of history in the southeastern United States.
While cows may not be the first animals that come to mind when visiting a zoo, Gabby represents an important aspect of conservation: preserving rare domestic breeds and their genetic diversity.
Pineywoods cattle are descendants of Iberian cattle brought to the Americas by Spanish explorers in the early 1500s. Over generations, these cattle adapted to the climate and landscapes of the southeastern United States, becoming an important part of the region's agricultural heritage.
During the late 1800s and early 1900s, the breed experienced a significant decline as crossbreeding with imported European cattle became increasingly common. Today, Pineywoods cattle are classified as threatened by The Livestock Conservancy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting endangered livestock and poultry breeds from extinction.
In addition to highlighting heritage breed conservation, Gabby's arrival will provide new educational opportunities for students enrolled in Santa Fe College's Zoo Animal Technology program. Working with a large domestic animal will allow students to develop practical animal husbandry and handling skills that complement their experience caring for exotic species.
"Gabby will bring a new perspective to our students,” said Jonathan Miot, director of the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo. “Managing a domestic animal, learning about hoof care, working around a larger animal — these are all great skills for our students."
As the only Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited teaching zoo on a college campus, the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo provides students with hands-on experience in professional animal care while educating the public about wildlife and conservation.
Gabby's arrival offers visitors an opportunity to discover how conservation extends beyond wildlife to include the preservation of rare livestock breeds and their agricultural heritage.
To celebrate Gabby's arrival, visitors to the SF Teaching Zoo will receive a complimentary Pineywoods cow craft and coloring sheet from Monday, Nov. 2 through Sunday, Nov. 15, while supplies last.
Visitors can learn more about Gabby and the animals in the zoo's care at sfcollege.edu/zoo.
