Dane County Executive Joe Parisi on Thursday announced the arrival of a new female African lion at Dane County's Henry Vilas Zoo.

The lion came to Madison from the Sedgewick County Zoo in Wichita, Kan.

Ronda Schwetz, director of the zoo, said that Shakura is just over two years old and is a young adult. The Lion Species Survival Plan, which works to preserve a species over generations, sent Shakura to pair with Henry, the older male lion currently at the zoo.

The SSP makes matches to help produce the healthiest and most genetically sound offspring possible for the long-term health of the whole population.

"Shakura is very energetic and fun to watch on exhibit. She has taken to her new surroundings very well," said Schwetz in a Dane County news release.

Local, national protection groups bringing awareness to pet birds    

The City of Madison joins a national non-profit in celebrating the feathered kind on National Bird Day Saturday.

On Dec. 19, Mayor Paul Soglin signed a proclamation making Jan. 5 Bird Day in the city. Soglin wrote he “encourage[s] our citizens to conserve and protect the world’s birds from cruelty and extinction.”

The city’s Bird Day coincides with the same day it is celebrated nationwide through Born Free and the Avian Welfare Coalition.

Monica Engebretson, wildlife biologist with Born Free, said National Bird Day is about to protecting and appreciating birds.

“Birds are actually not domesticated animals like cats and dogs,” Engebretson said. “They belong in the wild and it is very challenging to meet their needs in a home environment.”

In honor of National Dog Week, the Dane County Humane Society will reduce microchip fees for dogs.

National Dog Week began Monday and will continue through Saturday, Sept. 30.  This week, microchips will cost $15, 50 percent off its original price.

Dane County Humane Society emphasized the importance of having dogs wear collars with ID tags in addition to a microchip, said a press release.  This provides multiple formed of identification if owners and pets are separated.

"Pet owners don’t expect their pets to be lost or stolen and they hope that leashes, fences and doors will be enough to keep them safe at home," said Gayle Viney, DCHS Spokeswoman.  The reality is that accidents do happen, and when they do, many owners are unprepared.  "The ID tag provides immediate owner information and the microchip provides back up information if the ID tag is separated from the animal," said Viney.