Dane County Executive Joe Parisi on Thursday announced the arrival of a new female African lion at Dane County's Henry Vilas Zoo.

The lion came to Madison from the Sedgewick County Zoo in Wichita, Kan.

Ronda Schwetz, director of the zoo, said that Shakura is just over two years old and is a young adult. The Lion Species Survival Plan, which works to preserve a species over generations, sent Shakura to pair with Henry, the older male lion currently at the zoo.

The SSP makes matches to help produce the healthiest and most genetically sound offspring possible for the long-term health of the whole population.

"Shakura is very energetic and fun to watch on exhibit. She has taken to her new surroundings very well," said Schwetz in a Dane County news release.

The 2012 Holiday Express offers a tropical theme

Madison’s unique recreational garden facility is hosting its annual holiday exhibit for the month of December that includes model trains throughout the Atrium.

The Holiday Express Flower and Model Train Show at Olbrich Botanical Gardens on Madison’ Far East side offers its holiday display in a tropical theme, including tiki sculptures, stained glass art and tropical plant life.

"(Olbrich staff) brought in some interesting tropical plants from our greenhouses, like palm trees with twinkling lights, along with an element of fun with the pink flamingos," Olbrich spokeswoman Sharon Cybart said. "Of course, we still have poinsettias and model trains, so visitors seem to be enjoying everything with a new twist."

The exhibit also incorporates holiday lights, the traditional Christmas poinsettias and large-scale model trains.