Ep 1. A New Reality

In The Zoo season 7 episode 1, titled "A New Reality," viewers are taken on a thrilling new adventure as the Bronx Zoo staff faces a whole new set of challenges. In this season opener, the team is tasked with adapting to a "new reality" as they navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, which has affected every aspect of their operations and the animals in their care.

The episode opens with shots of the empty zoo, once bustling with visitors but now eerily quiet due to pandemic-related closures. The zookeepers, veterinarians, and support staff are shown adapting to new protocols, such as regular hand-washing, wearing masks, and social distancing to keep themselves and the animals safe.

Throughout the episode, we see how the pandemic has affected specific animals and their caretakers. For example, the Asian elephant herd, one of the zoo's most popular exhibits, is shown dealing with social distancing measures. The keepers must be creative in keeping the elephants mentally stimulated, such as introducing new toys and playing games.

Meanwhile, the reptile team is shown trying to save a gila monster, a venomous lizard native to the southwestern United States. The team is unsure how the pandemic will impact their ability to transport the animal for treatment at the zoo's medical center.

In addition to the pandemic-related challenges, the Bronx Zoo staff faces another crisis as a peacock, one of many free-roaming birds on the property, is found injured. The bird is brought into the animal hospital, where the vets perform surgery. The camera follows the bird's recovery and eventual return to the wild.

As the episode draws to a close, we see the zoo staff reflecting on the challenges they faced during the pandemic. Despite the difficulties, the team expresses hope for the future and their continued dedication to caring for the animals at the Bronx Zoo.

Overall, The Zoo season 7 episode 1 provides a timely and informative look at how one of the world's most famous zoos has adapted to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The episode also showcases the deep devotion of the Bronx Zoo staff to the animals in their care, and how they continue to persevere in the face of adversity.