A Tribute to Our Animal Ambassadors of the Past
Every year, thousands of children walk through our doors and come face-to-face with the wonders of the natural world for the very first time.
These transformative moments are made possible by our dedicated Animal Ambassadors—the furry, feathered, and scaled educators who called the Lutz their home.
Though they are no longer with us, their paw prints and spirit remain woven into the fabric of our museum.
We invite you to join us in remembering these extraordinary creatures, not just for the lessons they taught us about biology, but for the empathy and kindness they inspired in every child who visited them.
In Memory Of
Moxie (2018-2026)
Moxie, a rehabilitated eastern chipmunk who made her home at the Lutz Children’s Museum in 2018, passed away in 2026 after living well beyond the typical lifespan of her species. True to her name, Moxie was full of spunk and personality, capturing the hearts of countless young visitors with her curiosity and charm. She was rarely still—busily creating burrows, carefully caching her favorite treats, and often darting about her enclosure with a peanut proudly held in her mouth. Moxie brought daily smiles, quiet moments of wonder, and a lasting love of wildlife to all who met her. She will be fondly remembered and deeply missed.
Zitta (2016-2026)
Zitta came to the Lutz Children’s Museum in 2019 from a pet rescue, already a confident and spirited lady at about three years old. With her impressive size, soft ears, and lovable face, she inspired awe and delight in countless young visitors. Zitta was known for her big personality—cheerfully booping the backs of ankles with her nose and enthusiastically playing tug of war with her treat bags. She formed a special bond with the museum’s CEO, and when she retired from public life, she spent her remaining years peacefully in the CEO’s office, surrounded by familiar voices and gentle care. Zitta’s spunk, sweetness, and gentle presence left a lasting impression on all who met her, and she will be deeply missed.
Toby (2021-2026)
Toby, a beloved skinny pig and unique resident of the children’s museum, joined the museum family in 2025 at four years old and passed away in 2026. Though small in size, Toby had a big personality. He was known for gently nibbling fingers, snuggling snugly under fleece blankets while being held by staff, and joyfully oinking whenever food arrived. Peppers and leafy greens were his favorites, with strawberries and blueberries ranking as his most cherished treats. As a hairless guinea pig, Toby captured the curiosity of visitors who marveled at his appearance and asked countless questions. To the staff, he was affectionately compared to a tiny hippopotamus, and to everyone who met him, Toby brought laughter, warmth, and unforgettable smiles.