Knoxville Zoo's popular Bird Show has gone to the dogs. The zoo is introducing three new canine co-stars who will share the stage with Einstein, the world-famous African grey parrot; Porter, a Walker hound, Bob, a boxer/hound mix and James, a wire-haired dachshund. They are all part of the zoo's new Animals in Action show which is now open for the summer season.

Animals in Action showcases the natural talents of birds from around the world, including the amazing vocabulary of Einstein, an African grey parrot who knows more than 80 words and sounds on cue, the hunting prowess of the red-legged seriema, the graceful flight of the Harris hawk and the impressive eight-foot wingspan of the African crowned crane. Porter, Bob and James, all dogs adopted from the Young-Williams Animal Center in Knoxville, show off their intelligence and athletic ability and remind visitors that unlike many exotic species, adopted pets make excellent companions.

"The dogs are a wonderful new addition to our show," says Teresa Collins, manager of special events and shows at Knoxville Zoo. "Part of our mission, in addition to entertaining our visitors, is to make people aware that birds and other exotic animals really don't make ideal pets. Porter, Bob and James give us the perfect opportunity to talk about responsible pet ownership and to show that there are some pretty amazing animals looking for homes."

Knoxville Zoo's Animals in Action show takes place Tuesday through Sunday at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. in the News Sentinel Amphitheatre. Shows are included as part of general zoo admission.

Knoxville Zoo is Knoxville's largest year-round attraction. Located off exit 392A from Interstate 40, the zoo is open every day except Christmas Day. Knoxville Zoo is nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is committed to the highest standards in animal care and well-being, ethics, conservation, and education. Currently, the zoo is open Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. and from 9:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission and ticket sales stop one-hour before the zoo closes. Nextday admission is free after 3 p.m. For more information, please call 865-637-5331 ext. 300 or visit www.knoxvillezoo.org.