THQ today announced that Zoo Tycoon DS has shipped to North American stores. The game comes from Blue Fang Games, the Waltham, Massachusetts, developer that worked on Zoo Tycoon 2 for the PC.

　　In the game, DS owners will be responsible for all the aspects of a zoo, whether it be satisfying the needs of the animals or customers. By building a successful zoo, gamers will unlock new animals and pens for the critters. A card collection system, exclusive to the DS version of the game, will provide users with plenty of real-world facts about the animals they're tending to.

　　The DS isn't the only platform answering the call of the wild. Publisher Microsoft Game Studios today announced that the upcoming add-on for the PC's Zoo Tycoon 2 has gone gold and will be released October 18. Zoo Tycoon 2: Endangered Species features 20 new rare animals, as well as new environments and jeep tours for visitors.

　　Zoo Tycoon DS is rated E for Everyone and retails for $29.99. Zoo Tycoon 2: Endangered Species is rated E10+ for Everyone Ten and Older and will retails for $29.99.