Riverbanks Zoo celebrates arrival of new family member

Susan the Giant Pacific Octopus is now on display at Riverbanks Zoo.

Photo: Riverbanks Zoo

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is celebrating the holiday early with the arrival of a new zoo family member.

Susan the Giant Pacific Octopus is now on display in the zoo’s new Darnall W. and Susan F. Boyd Aquarium and Reptile Conservation Center (ARCC). 

The eight-armed cephalopod is named after benefactor Susan Boyd.

“The number one question we get day after day is when will the octopus be here, and now we have an answer,” says Aquarium Curator Kendra Bottini.

Bottini says there were delays due to mechanical issues with the water chiller and tank sealant.

As of today, zoo guests can see Susan during regular daytime visiting hours inside the Aquarium and Reptile Conservation Center directly across from the moon jelly wall.