1952

In 1952, the San Diego Zoo was one of four zoos worldwide to receive a rare and precious gift: tuataras from the government of New Zealand. This prehistoric reptile, known as a Rhynchocephalian, meaning “beak-headed reptile,” was something no one in San Diego had ever seen the likes of before. The San Diego Zoo’s male, named Rhynchy (pronounced Rinky), after his scientific designation, was quite a source of pride around the Reptile House.