Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Announce Name for First Chick of 2023

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium have announced a name for the first chick to hatch during the 2023 breeding season, a rose-breasted grosbeak hatched on May 27 2023. The name was determined through a public competition in partnership with Fifth Third Bank that provided the winner with their own nest egg.

The rose-breasted grosbeak is a medium sized songbird which can be found across much of North America. The species is a common visitor to backyard bird feeders. Their melodious call is often compared to the noise of sneakers on a gym floor.

Over 700 entries were received by the zoo. The winning name for the chick, Pico was submitted by Elizabeth Salazar. She received $530 toward a college savings plan, courtesy of Fifth Third Bank. Fifth Third also made a $530 donation to the Columbus Zoo Conservation Fund.

“Back to school time is a reminder that each school year brings children one year closer to college,” said Fifth Third Bank Director of Marketing Elizabeth Boyuk. “By providing a “nest egg” opportunity to start saving for college, this family can now build off this contribution and continue to add to it and watch it grow.” 

The Columbus Zoo Conservation Fund carry out work to save wildlife locally, nationally and across the globe.

“We are proud to partner with Fifth Third Bank on this exciting nest egg campaign. Not only does it encourage nurturing families to help grow educational opportunities and knowledge, but it represents our collective commitment to raising awareness about how we can make a difference for the future of wildlife, including songbirds like Pico that we find in our own backyards!” said Dr. Michael Kreger, Vice President of Conservation at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.