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Hamilton County commissioners declined to put a property tax increase on the ballot for the Cincinnati Zoo. But zoo leadership says it's important for voters to at least approve a renewal at the current rate.

Manatees at the Cincinanti and Columbus zoos are back in Florida in preparation for returning to their native waters.

Hamilton County commissioners voted unanimously Monday to put the levy before voters at the current level, without the increase zoo officials requested.

Cincinnati Zoo festivities go from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday with birthday cake and ice cream for guests.

Hudo was born at the Denver Zoo in 2003 and moved to the Cincinnati Zoo in 2009.

Hamilton County commissioners are considering various proposals as the Cincinnati Zoo's levy comes up for renewal. The Tax Levy Review Committee is recommending a renewal and increase of .57 mills.

The Cincinnati Zoo's sloth, "Lightning," has given birth.

The non-surgical injection tells the cat to produce a protein in excess that prevents pregnancy. It should be able to eventually reduce the growing community cat population.

The Cincinnati Zoo brings naturalists and scientists to town to discuss wildlife issues and conservation efforts.

Observations include: elephants putting little pine trees on their heads, hippos honking and the Komodo dragon waking up to dig for his newly hidden food.