HONOLULU — Mayor Rick Blangiardi proclaimed November as “Lani Moo at the Honolulu Zoo Month” on Tuesday morning, recognizing the 125th anniversary of Meadow Gold Dairies and its 75-year relationship with Honolulu Zoo. The event also heralded the arrival of the newest Lani Moo, who is just over a year old.

Meadow Gold Dairies CEO Bahman Sadeghi handpicked the pure breed Jersey heifer after the passing of the former Lani Moo in April 2022. Transported from Kohala on Hawaii Island, the young Lani Moo’s lineage goes back to an English breed of small dairy cattle from the Isle of Jersey known for producing milk with higher protein and fat, according to a news release.

“We are pleased that we were able to find a new Lani Moo who can continue to serve the community by bringing joy to residents and visitors alike,” said Sadeghi in the release. “Lani Moo’s mission is to educate children about milk and the importance of good health and nutrition. We are grateful for our partnership with the Honolulu Zoo that allows us to do this through the Lani Moo’s interactive and educational exhibits.”

For over 70 years, Lani Moo has been Meadow Gold’s ambassador of health and nutrition, a name familiar to generations of Hawaii residents.

Honolulu Zoo has been Lani Moo’s home since 1996. “We extend our huge mahalo and heartfelt appreciation to CEO Sadeghi and Meadow Gold Dairies for selecting the new Lani Moo to be included in the Honolulu Zoo family,” said Honolulu Zoo Director Linda Santos. “We are very happy to have Meadow Gold’s beloved mascot, Lani Moo, housed at our Keiki Zoo once again, for children to meet and families to visit and enjoy.”

Lani Moo is in the Keiki Zoo yard next to the red barn and welcomes visitors 10 a.m.-3 p.m. daily.

Sarah Yamanaka covers events, environmental and community news for Spectrum News Hawaii.