Zoo welcomes white-tailed deer Ophelia & Jolene

Zoo welcomes white-tailed deer Ophelia & Jolene

The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo staff recently welcomed the arrival of two young white‑tailed deer, Ophelia and Jolene, who are now settling into their new home as the Zoo’s newest native wildlife ambassadors.
Ophelia and Jolene are both 8 months old and have already begun to showcase their unique personalities. Jolene is observant and cautious, taking in her surroundings with thoughtful curiosity. Ophelia is more relaxed and especially food motivated, eagerly approaching keepers during training and feeding sessions.
Their presence has also caught the attention of their neighbor, Hisser the bobcat, who can often be seen watching the pair graze peacefully from his habitat nearby.
“We’re incredibly excited to have white‑tailed deer back at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo,” said Assistant Curator Rachel Gulley. “Ophelia and Jolene give us a meaningful way to connect guests with one of Alabama’s most iconic native species while highlighting the importance of conservation.”
White‑tailed deer play a significant role in Alabama’s natural heritage. Each year, the state sells around 190,000 hunting licenses, generating tens of millions of dollars in conservation funding. Deer season contributes directly to habitat protection, wildlife research, and management programs across the state.
“It’s a powerful example of how responsible, ethical hunting helps preserve Alabama’s natural heritage for future generations,” Gulley added.

Ophelia and Jolene were generously donated by Buck Wild Bucks in Boaz, AL. Transportation for the deer was made possible through the support of Julie Hoover, whose contribution ensured their safe arrival to the Zoo.
Guests can visit the pair daily from 9 am to 4 pm in their habitat near the Contact Barn.
The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is a local non‑profit organization that cares for over 280 animals. The Zoo provides education programs to people of all ages in our Gulf Coast community, connecting them to wildlife and inspiring the importance of conservation that protects our local environment and the world around us. For more information, visit alabamagulfcoastzoo.org or follow the Zoo on social media.