Over the past few weeks, our community, fans, and guests have joined together to name the youngest patas monkey at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. And now, the votes are in and — not only are we ready to announce her name — we’re revealing the names of the entire troop!
Introducing… Maisha!
By an overwhelming majority, the winning name for the baby was Maisha, meaning “life” in Swahili. Both her name and spirited presence reflect the vibrant diversity of desert life we work to protect each day.
In total, 309 generous supporters donated, raising nearly $6,500 to support The Living Desert’s mission. As the Zoo does not receive any ongoing tax support, we rely on admissions, programs, and philanthropic gifts to fund the Zoo’s world-class animal care, international conservation, daily operations, and park improvements.
Meet the Ujamma Troop
pronounced: oo-jah-MAH
Named by longtime supporters, Cliff Schneider and Lynn Pazarak, “ujamaa” is a Swahili word symbolizing community and cooperation. It’s a perfect fit for a social species like the patas monkey and a wonderful reminder of the collective effort needed to protect our deserts.
Bibi
pronounced: BEE-bee
The regal matriarch
Often observing the troop peacefully from the back of the habitat, she keeps a watchful eye on Maisha. She can often be spotted watching the warthogs and giraffes in the near distance.
Bibi was generously named by donors Cindy and Eric Lissol and they sweetly chose this name as it means “grandmother” in Tanzanian Swahili.
Naledi
pronounced: nah-LED-ee
Bibi’s daughter and mother of Maisha
Recognizable by her brighter red coat and pale face, Naledi is often found foraging in the open grass areas of the habitat. Her name means “star,” in the Sesotho and Setswana languages, which is fitting she is one of the leaders of the troop.
Kamari
pronounced: ka-MAH-ree
Maisha’s father
Brave, intelligent, and always exploring, Kamari is easy to spot by his darker face markings and the white fur on his legs, almost like tall socks. You’ll often find Maisha running close behind him. His name means “moon” in Swahili.
Maisha
pronounced: my-EE-sha
Naledi’s daughter and the youngest troop member
Her care team describes her as confident, playful, and endlessly curious. She’s often seen leaping from tall rocks, climbing trees, and enjoying her favorite treats: worms, apples, grapes, watermelon, and snap peas.
