MEMBER’S MAGAZINE
MARCH · APRIL · MAY
INSIDE
A Peek at the Jungle Plans Jurassic World Summer Learning Adventures
SPRING 2015
FEATURE STORY
A Peek at the ZooTracks
Jungle Plans
A Sedgwick County Zoological Society magazine for members
PLANT LIFE
Publisher Sedgwick County Zoological Society, Inc. © 2015 All rights reserved.
The new roof has been officially complete since December and already there are great changes happening in the Jungle exhibit! The elevated light levels are already working their magic. Most of the 2,000 or so plants that remained in the Jungle during the renovation have survived and thrived. The Horticulture team has noticed that plants are looking lush and compact, no longer “leggy” as they once were. The team has seen many plants flowering and fruiting, some possibly for the first time!
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Mark C. Reed Sedgwick County Zoological Society, Inc. PRESIDENT Scott Ochs TRUSTEES Stanley G. Andeel Jeff Bloomer William P. Buchanan Martha C. Buford Cindy Burgess Kelly E. Callen Mark C. DeVries Allan Dunne Genevieve Farha Rhonda Fullerton Michael Herbert Ronald Holt Steven A. Houlik Dale Hoyer Dirk Jones Don J. Knappenberger Gary Kohn Dave Larson Marvin Long Buz Lukens Gayle Malone Sam Marnick Mary Lynn Oliver Martin W. Park Karl Peterjohn Scott Redler Albert R. Sanchez Don Sherman Collin Stieben Jay Smith Marty Wells Sheryl Wohlford MAGAZINE COMMITTEE Schanee Anderson Melissa Graham Ryan Gulker Scott Newland Steven Onken ON THE COVER— The Jungle in Process
One of the really cool things about all this blossoming, blooming and fruiting is that we’ll be able to harvest some of the pomegranate, limes, bananas, and whatever else is in season, to give to various animals around the Zoo! Some of the other fruits that you may see growing in the Jungle could include breadfruit, jackfruit (the largest fruit in the world), papaya, star fruit, pineapple, lychee and so much more! We can’t wait to see the bounty that will eventually grow in building! There is still plenty of work to do in the building to get the Jungle ready for you to see it! A truckload of plants is scheduled to arrive. Work on the hardscapes, to help with erosion, needs to be completed. Aquatic plants added to the lake will create spawning sites for the fish. Whew, it will all come together before you know it!
583 17 PLANTS
DELIVERED
TO THE ZOO
IN MARCH
1,000
PLANTS
WILL BE
PLANTED IN THE
JUNGLE BEFORE
THE GRAND
NEW AQUATIC PLANTS
IN THE LAKE TO CREATE
SPAWNING SITES
O PE N I N G! FOR THE FISH
17,000
$
BUDGET FOR PLANTS AND HARDSCAPES
NEW SPECIES THAT HAVE NEVER BEEN IN THE JUNGLE BEFORE
• Aframomum—Aframomum melegueta • Soursop—Annona muricata • Breadfruit—Artocarpus altilis • Jackfruit—Artocarpus heterophyllus • Flamethrower Palm— Chambeyronia macrocarpa • Taro—Colocasia esculenta • Oil Palm—Elaeis guineensis • Loquat—Eriobotrya japonica • Coral Tree—Erythrina indica • Grumichama—Eugenia brasiliensis • Surinam Cherry—Eugenia uniflora • Bottle Palm—Hyophorbe lagenicaulis • Lychee—Litchi chinensis • Noni—Morinda citrifolia • Bat Flower—Tacca chantrieri • Tamarind—Tamarindus indica • Chocolate Tree—Theobroma cacao
Horticultures Picks Plants to Look For American Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis)— This species of palm is similar to the African variety that is threatening the natural habitats of orangutans and Sumatran tigers. Palm oil is found in many of the foods we eat: cookies, candies, crackers, etc. It’s also found in many household products: shampoos, cosmetics, etc. Because the demand for this crop is so high, the rainforests of Sumatra and Borneo have been cleared and turned into agriculture lands. Coral Tree (Erythrina indica)—The coral tree is from the 3rd largest family of plants. It is native to Guam. Its seeds are buoyant and can be dispersed by the sea currents. The seeds are known as “sea beans!” The nectar of the coral tree is food for bridled white-eyes, fruit doves, and honey eaters, and some of these species will call the Jungle home. Aucuba or Spotted Laurel (Aucuba japonica)—This species is native to China, Taiwan and Japan. This plant will be used to feed the stick insects at the Zoo. Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis)—This Polynesian tree produces a fruit that is a food staple throughout the tropics. The fruit can be roasted, fried, baked or broiled and tastes similar to freshly baked bread.
See Pete's Plant Tips on page 14 to learn more about plants in the Jungle.
ANIMAL LIFE The animal plan for the renovated exhibit is a bit more of a “work in progress” than the plant plan. Bringing new animals into the Zoo is a bit more of a process. To bring in animals, there’s coordination with other zoos, small windows of good weather for moving animals, and then introductions of the animals to their new homes. This means that as summer and fall progress, we’ll keep adding new feathered and finned friends for you to learn about! One big thing that guests will notice right away (other than the incredible light, happy birds and lush plants) is that the big fish in the lake are gone. You will now see smaller, more colorful fish in the lake. The reasons behind the switch center on needing fish that are a bit friendlier with the plants and animals in the building. The big fish didn’t play nice with the wading birds and they would eat any plants we tried to put in the lake. We’ll be able to do more with aquascaping with the smaller fish: big lily pads, aquatic reeds, etc. The lake will look much more like an ecosystem instead of a concrete pond. We’re confident that you will enjoy all of the changes, new additions and “old” favorites that we have in store for you with the Jungle reopening!
Curator’s Must Finds Green wood hoopoes (Phoeniculus purpuresu)—This species is very unique and distinct. They are cooperative cavity nesters, meaning one pair will nest but the rest of the flock will help raise the chicks, even if the birds are unrelated. Also…they smell! Wood hoopoes excrete an oil out of their preen gland that makes them smell bad to predators. It’s a useful defensive strategy! Guam rail (Rallus owstoni)—The Sedgwick County Zoo has been an active participant in the recovery program of this species since the 80’s. However, this will be the first time they will have a permanent home in a public area of the Zoo. Australian lungfish (Neoceratodus forsteri)—This species is a very rare fish to find in US collections. It is one of the oldest, most primitive fish on the planet. It is a true living fossil related to coelacanths. 3
FEATURE STORY
12 to 15 30 F I S H SPECIES
NEW FISH SPECIES WILL BE INTRODUCED
TO THE JUNGLE WATERSCAPES.
WERE IN THE
JUNGLE LAKE
AT THE TIME OF
RENOVATION,
30 SPECIES
WILL ONCE AGAIN
BE EXHIBITED
THERE AFTER
THE OPENING.
120 to 130
BIRDS WILL BE PLACED IN THE EXHIBIT. WE HOPE TO BRING THE NUMBERS UP THROUGH
BREEDING MANAGEMENT.
6
NEW BIRD SPECIES WILL CALL THE JUNGLE HOME AT THE TIME OF REOPENING:
• Blue-bellied rollers —Coracias cyanogaster • Green wood hoopoe—Phoeniculus purpuresu • Golden white-eye—Cleptornis marchei • Bridled white-eye—Zosterops conspicillatus • Micronesian kingfisher—Halcyon cinnamomina cinnamomina • Guam rail—Rallus owstoni
OVER
100 180 BIRDS
IS THE HIGHEST
RELOCATED
NUMBER OF BIRDS TO HAVE LIVED IN
RENOVATION OF
IN ITS HISTORY.
WERE
FOR THE
THE JUNGLE E X H I B I T.
THE JUNGLE
THIS LOWER
NUMBER CAN BE CONTRIBUTED
TO A DECLINE IN BREEDING
AND OTHER
MANAGEMENT
CH A NGE S.
A N OT H E R
EIGHT
NEW SPECIES WILL BE INTRODUCED,
BUT LIKELY ALL AFTER THE
REOPENING OF THE BUILDING. Stay tuned for more information on these species in the future!
OTHER THINGS TO EXPERIENCE • The new roof allows for so much more light transmittance that there is a true light cycle. This will allow for normal seasonal and daily behaviors in the birds. This should increase breeding and nesting behaviors. • The new HVAC system is much more sophisticated and will allow us greater control over the building's temperature and humidity, which will provide a better experience for our guests and animals. • New learning opportunities! The lobby will have brand new graphics about the tropics and the challenges those regions face. With new exhibits in the building, guests can learn more about the species and our involvement in the Mariana Avifauna Conservation (MAC) program. • Though the wrinkled hornbills are not technically new, they will now have a permanent home in the Jungle. We are hopeful that they will breed and nest on exhibit if they feel comfortable.
MEMBERS SEE IT FIRST!
Members Only Jungle Sneak Preview
Saturday and Sunday, May 16 & 17 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Yes, you may bring guests with you! Please be sure you have a membership with guest privileges or have guest passes with you. Otherwise, you will need to pay regular gate admission for your guests. Please bring your membership card and photo-id.
JUNGLE PUBLIC GRAND OPENING
Friday, May 22:
Ribbon cutting and dedication at 10:00 a.m. Jungle open to the public at 10:30 a.m.
Image Sources: • Sedgwick County Zoo • Eribotrya Japnica Flowers by Bruno Navez. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eriobotrya#mediaviewer/ File:Eriobotrya_japonica_flowers.jpg • Hyophorbe Lagenicaulis by Daderot. http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hyophorbe_lagenicaulis_-_ Jardin_Botanique_de_Lyon_-_DSC05340.JPG • Erythrina Variegata by Tau'olunga. http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Erythrina_variegata.jpg • Oil Palm Plantation by Marco Schmidt. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elaeis_guineensis#mediaviewer/ File:Elaeis_guineensis_MS_3467.jpg • Erythrina Coralloides by Dick Culbert. http://www.flickr.com/photos/92252798@N07/9551571158 • Aucuba Japonica by wikimedia user 3268zauber. http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Aucuba_ japonica_cv._%27Crotonifolia%27.JPG • Artocarpus Altilis by Hans Hillewaert. http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Artocarpus_ altilis_%28fruit%29.jpg • Green Wood Hoopoe by Derek Keats. https://www.flickr.com/photos/dkeats/15720165154/ • Marbled Lungfish by Wikimedia User OpenCage. http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Marbled_ lungfish_1.jpg
5
DISCOVERY
Education Program Schedule All classes are held in the Cargill Learning Center unless otherwise noted. Please visit www.scz.org for program information and brief class descriptions of individual classes. Space is limited and pre-registration is required for classes. Please call 316-266-8213 to register. For the safety and enjoyment of everyone, no older or younger siblings, including infants, are allowed in age specific classes unless otherwise noted.
Topic
Start–End Time
Class
Date
Lizard Lizard+ Lizard Lizard Bird Bird Bird Bird+ Worm Worm+ Worm Worm Gorilla* Gorilla* Gorilla* Gorilla+*
10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Pajama Party
Sat 3/7 Fri 3/13 Fri 4/10
Wed 3/25 Lizard Wed 3/25 Lizard+ Age: 2–3 Members: $6 Thurs 3/26 Lizard Nonmembers: $8 Thurs 3/26 Lizard Additional person: $3 Thurs 3/26 Lizard+ +Siblings up to five Tues 4/21 Bird years of age may also attend these classes at Tues 4/21 Bird designated times only. Tues 4/21 Bird+ An additional fee of $3 will be charged for any Wed 4/22 Bird mobile child. Wed 4/22 Bird+ *Classes will meet at Wed 5/20 Worm Downing Gorilla Forest Wed 5/20 Worm+ Tent Room Thurs 5/21 Worm Thurs 5/21 Worm Thurs 5/21 Worm+ Tues 6/16 Gorilla* Tues 6/16 Gorilla* Tues 6/16 Gorilla+* Wed 6/17 Gorilla* Wed 6/17 Gorilla+*
10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. 2:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. 2:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. 2:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. 2:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
Ewe & Me
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Class
Wee Wigglers
Date
Wed 3/4 Age: 12–23 mo. Wed 3/4 Members: $4 Thurs 3/5 Nonmembers: $6 $ Additional person: 2 Thurs 3/5 Tues 4/7 +Siblings up to five years of age may also Tues 4/7 attend these classes on Wed 4/8 Wednesdays at 11:00 only. An additional fee of Wed 4/8 $2 will be charged for any Wed 5/6 mobile child. Wed 5/6 *Classes will meet at Thurs 5/7 Downing Gorilla Forest Tent Room Thurs 5/7 Tues 6/2 Tues 6/2 Wed 6/3 Wed 6/3
Owlet
Tues 3/10 Who Lives in that Shell?+ Age: 4 – K $ Wed 3/11 Who Lives in Members: 8 that Shell? Nonmembers: $10 Additional person: $4 Wed 3/11 Who Lives in that Shell? + Younger siblings may also Wed 4/15 Hurray for attend class on Wed. at Hippos+ 10:00 only. An additional Wed 4/15 Hurray for fee of $4 will be charged Hippos for any mobile child. Thurs 4/16 Hurray for Hippos Thurs 4/16 Hurray for Hippos
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Topic
Start–End Time
Lively Lizards 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Lively Lizards 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Potty Break— 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Mammals Members: $17 Sat 4/18 Potty Break— 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. $ Nonmembers: 19 Mammals Additional person: $5 Sat 5/2 Potty Break— 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Birds & Reptiles Fri 5/8 Potty Break— 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Birds & Reptiles Sat 6/6 Proud Primates 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Fri 6/12 Proud Primates 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Family of up to 5 members, children Age: 0–1st grade
Sunset Safari
Tues 3/10 Lizard Age: 12 mo.–6 years Tues 4/14 Bird Members: $6 Tues 5/12 Worm Nonmembers: $8 $ Additional person: 3 Tues 6/9 Gorilla
Tot Tuesdays Age: 3–5 siblings welcome
NO COST
6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Tues 3/24 Salamanders 10:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m. 10:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m. Tues 5/26 Frogs & Toads 10:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m. Tues 6/23 Monkey Tails 10:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m. Tues 4/28 Color Crazy
No advance registration required.
ZOOper Kids Grades: 1–5 Members: $6 Nonmembers: $8
Homeschool Expeditions Grades: 1–5
Members: $15 Nonmembers: $17 Includes up to five family members Additional person: $5
WOW
Grades: 1–5
Sat 3/7 Sat 4/4
Amazing Apes 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Welcome 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Home Sat 5/2 Mega Mommas 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Sat 6/13 Creature Cribs 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Wed 3/4 Pollinating Powerhouses 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Wed 4/1 Earth Day Every Day 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Wed 5/6 Super Celebrations
Mon 3/16 Spring Fling – Fri 3/20
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
For five-day class: $145 member $160 non-member
Before & After Care for WOW class: 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. $15 for entire week, March 16–20
So You Think You Want to Be a Zookeeper?
Thurs 2/19 Farm*
Teens Members: $10 Nonmembers: $12
Thurs 4/16 Okapi*
3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m. 3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
* closed-toe shoes required
Class
Backstage Pass Includes up to five family members, ages 5+ Members: $17 Nonmembers: $19 Additional people/ Individual fee: $8
Date
Topic
Start–End Time
Sat 3/21 Horticulture Sat 5/16 General Behind the Scenes
10:00 a.m. –11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. –11:30 a.m.
NO COST
5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. March 18 Every third Wednesday thru Family—must be on October 14 bicycle or attached wagon. Members: $30 Sponsored by Bicycle X-change 1 ride per month Nonmembers: $34 **Rides will not be made up if 1 ride per month inclement weather
Active guests over 55 $4 per adult Pre-registration not required Sponsored by Larksfield Place
Social Hour ages 21+ Members: $30 Non-members: $35
Animal Encounter All ages
Wheeling Wild Club
Senior Wednesdays
Class
Wed 3/11 Don't Let That in Here! Wed 4/8 Pollinator Friends Wed 5/13 Up Close and Personal Wed 6/10 It’s a Jungle in Here
Date
Topic
Start–End Time
The Eyes of March 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Tues 3/10 Grassland Animals 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Wed 3/18 Going Green Mon 3/2
Thurs 3/26 Amazing Jumpers 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Mon 4/6 Slippery 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Tues 4/14 Sticky
No advanced registration required. Wed 4/22 Slimy classes may be Thurs 4/30 Slick canceled without notice Mon 5/4 Reptile
11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Tues 5/12 Bird Wed 5/20 Amphibian Thurs 5/28 Mammals
10:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
Mon 6/1
No Legs
Tues 6/9
Four Legs
Wed 6/17 More Legs Thurs 6/25 Two Legs
10:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
10:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
Fri 3/27 Cocktails with 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. the Creatures Fri 4/17 Martinis with 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Macaws Fri 6/12 Beastly Beers 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Sponsored by House of Schwan and Glazer's
Coffee Connections
Mon 3/2 Anne Nystrom
9:00 a.m. –10:00 a.m.
Mon 4/6 Maggie Mann
9:00 a.m. –10:00 a.m.
Mon 5/4 Katie Kimble
9:00 a.m. –10:00 a.m.
No advance Mon 6/1 Horticulture registration required.
9:00 a.m. –10:00 a.m.
Geared towards adults but all ages welcome
NO COST
Jungle Birds
North America
Australia/South America
Sponsored by Spice Merchant
Registration Information:
1. Preregister by calling the Learning Center at 266-8213. 2. Pay over the phone by credit card OR fill out the form completely and mail with payment to 5555 Zoo Blvd., Wichita, KS 67212-1698. Registration is not complete until payment is received. We reserve the right to cancel any preregistration or to charge a $2 late fee to individuals whose payment is not received on time. NOTE: If a refund is needed, contact the education department by 4 p.m. the day prior to the scheduled class. After contact, we will be happy to refund a maximum of 75% of the original program fee. Cancellations the day of class receive no refund. If we need to cancel class, we will notify registrants 48 hours in advance. For the safety and comfort of other participants, we reserve the right to refuse service to anyone with a fever or is noticeably sick.
Education Registration Form Please enclose form with payment and mail after you have preregistered. Student Name & Age
Class Title
Date
Membership No:
Total Fees:
Parent's Name:
Phone:
Address:
City:
Time
Fee
Zip:
7
FRIENDS & FAMILY
Creature Campouts
Nocturnal Adventures
Join us for an overnight outdoor adventure. Each year’s theme is different for these exciting camping adventures. This year we will have a North American Prairie theme. We would like to thank our friends at Papa John’s for helping to sponsor these great overnights!
Are you looking for an exciting activity for your scout, church, or school group but do not want to mess with camping equipment? How about spending the night at the Zoo? Groups will meet education staff at 6:00 p.m. in the Cargill Learning Center and participate in an exciting evening of games, tours, and special animal visitors. Groups will sleep inside, so no tents are needed. You bring a sack dinner. A bedtime snack and morning juice are provided by the Zoo.
All campouts take place on select Friday and Saturday nights, beginning at 5:30 p.m. The adventure includes dinner, a guided tour, activities, an animal encounter, a flashlight tour and a bedtime snack. In the morning, the excitement continues with continental breakfast and a 9:30 tram ride. Participants should plan to attend the entire event, from 5:30 p.m. until 9:30 a.m. We are unable to accommodate latecomers or those wishing to leave early. All campers need to bring their own tents, sleeping bags and flashlights. The campouts are for families with children ages 5 & older and adults of all ages. Any youth under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Cost is $30 per person for members and $35 per person for nonmembers. Space is limited at each of the campouts, so call soon to register. We must have your payment at registration to reserve your place. We can accept credit card payment at the time of your call, or you can come in person to register and pay by cash. No mailin registrations will be accepted. For more information or to register, call the Education Department at 266-8213. We have added more dates this year, so decide which wild night is best for you! Creature Campout Shirts will be for sale for $10 plus sales tax per shirt for those that camp out with us.
April 11 April 24 May 9
May 22 June 27
Fees are $25 per person. Sleeping areas are: Cargill Learning Center The Downing Gorilla Forest North American Prairie Overlook Slawson Family Tiger Trek. There is a minimum of 15 participants. However, for bookings under 30 people, we reserve the right to combine groups similar in age and gender. A nonrefundable deposit of $150 is due at booking. Be advised that during evening hours, there is no guarantee you will see some of the animals. To schedule your Nocturnal Adventure, contact the education department at 266-8213 a minimum of two weeks in advance.
Does your preschooler LOVE the Zoo?
Animal Tales Preschool at Sedgwick County Zoo focuses on traditional learning skills with a creative and environmental twist!
Registration is open for Fall 2015 classes!
Spaces fill quickly so call 266-8213 today or visit scz.org for more information!
CONSTRUCTION UPDATE:
Elephants of the Zambezi River Valley It’s hard to believe how much progress has been made on the construction of the new elephant habitat! Things only really got started in October when crews began working on the grading of the area and dirt removal. Now things are starting to take shape at the construction site. Here’s a look at how things have progressed this winter!
11/28/14
The Zoo has joined the Dillons Community Rewards program! The Zoo will get credit for every purchase* you make using your registered Plus card. The more you shop with Dillons, the more opportunity the Zoo has to earn even bigger rewards. It's that easy!
The Zoo's NPO number is 32357.
12/15/14
1/5/15
1/22/15
To begin supporting the Zoo you must have things to register: • A Plus card, which is available at any store by asking an associate • A valid email address, which can be obtained from any free online service and can be anonymous • A personalized account at our website, which again can be anonymous TO CREATE AN ONLINE ACCOUNT AT DILLONS WEBSITE: 1. Visit our website at www.dillons.com/communityrewards 2. Click on "Register" at the top of the page 3. Enter your email address, password, zip code (select preferred store) and check the box if you desire to receive email communication from us 4. Click on "Create Account" at the bottom of the page 5. You will receive an email confirmation to your inbox, to activate your account click on the link in the body of the email and enter your sign in information to confirm TO ENROLL IN THE COMMUNITY REWARDS PROGRAM: 1. Members must visit our website at www.dillons.com/ communityrewards 2. Sign in OR Create an account (see above on creating an online account at their website) 3. Click on "Enroll Now" 4. Enter the 5-digit NPO and search—Zoo's NPO is 32357 5. Select your Organization and click on "Enroll" *Specific purchases that cannot be included are: alcohol, tobacco, fuel, Pharmacy purchases with gov't assistance (i.e. Medicare, Medicaid, Tricare), postage, bottle deposits, lottery, Western Union, other customer services, promotional tickets, sales tax, banner gift cards, reloadable gift card products (i.e. Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Green Dot). Please see FAQs at Dillons website for a complete list of exclusions.
9
ADVENTURE
Children's Farm Festival: Shearing of the Sheep Saturday, March 14, 2015 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Join us as we shear the sheep and prepare for spring. The Zoo’s Tunis, Karakul, and Navajo Churro sheep will be sheared in the American Barn throughout the morning. Guests will get to feel the different wool, try their hand at wool carding and hand spinning. Knitters and spinners will also be on hand to show you how this beautiful wool can be turned into sweaters, scarves and much more. It will be a fun time for all! Regular Zoo admission applies; members get in free with membership card and photo ID.
Party for the Planet presented by Meritrust, Westar Energy and Black Hills Energy
Thursday, April 23, 2015 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. We're planning a Party for the Planet to celebrate Earth Day! This FREE environmental fair gives everyone the opportunity to learn how to protect and care for the world we live in. With hands-on activities and interactive exhibits, there are many learning opportunities for children. Activities are geared towards third through fifth grade. Admission is FREE the entire day. Event sponsored by:
Saturday, April 4, 2015 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Come one, come all and enjoy Easter activities throughout the day! Meet the Easter bunny, participate in egg guessing games and much more! Kids are encouraged to bring their Easter baskets to collect goodies located throughout the Zoo. There are no traditional Easter egg hunts at Easter Eggstravaganza. We have hidden giant Easter eggs around the Zoo. As you visit the Zoo be sure to count how many of the giant eggs you see. Turn the number in at the tent outside the gift shop and receive a prize!
A special activity for children with special needs will be held at 1:00 p.m. and an activity for visually impaired children will be held at 2:00 p.m. Call 266-8367 or email ask@scz.org to register for these special activities. Beeper eggs provided by: AT&T Pioneers Regular Zoo admission applies; members get in free with membership card and photo ID. 2015 event sponsored by:
World Penguin Day Saturday, May 2, 2015 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. There will be penguin activities, crafts and keeper chats with a keeper available to answer all your penguin questions. Keeper Chat & Feeding Schedule: 10:00 a.m., Noon, 2:00 p.m., 3:45 p.m. Regular Zoo admission applies. Members Free with membership card and photo ID.
CINCO DE MAYO Sunday, May 3, 2015 Noon – 6:00 p.m. Come celebrate Mexican culture with food, music and fun! Exhibitors, authentic Mexican food vendors, and live bands performing on the stage are all part of the festivities during this exciting celebration. Regular admission applies. Members free with membership card and photo ID. 2015 event sponsored by:
Endangered Species Day Saturday, May 16, 2015 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Sunday, May 10, 2015 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Celebrate the beauty of spring and treat your mom to a visit to the Zoo on her special day! Visit our newest babies and their Zoo moms while enjoying the great family atmosphere! All moms are admitted free when accompanied by a paying child.
Stop by the Pavilion from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Enjoy a wonderful all-you-can-eat Chris Cakes pancake & sausage brunch for just $5 a plate. 2015 event sponsored by:
Sedgwick County Zoo will be hosting Endangered Species Day. This event is a fantastic opportunity for all ages to come out and learn about the importance of protecting endangered wildlife and see how the Zoo is doing their part to help. Interactive stations will be located throughout the Zoo for you to investigate and talk one on one with the zookeepers. Discover what your Sedgwick County Zoo is doing to aid in saving endangered animals from around the world and what you can do to help! We hope to see all of you there! Regular Zoo admission applies; members FREE with membership card and photo ID.
Looking Ahead:
Ape Awareness Friday and Saturday, June 12 and 13: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Father’s Day Car Show Sunday, June 21: 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 11
CONSERVATION
Jurassic World
By Rick Hudson, Executive Director of International Iguana Foundation and David Hedrick, Social Media Manager for IIF Scientists on remote islands, working to bring ancient reptiles back from the brink of extinction... It sounds like a movie, but these magnificent lizards are very much alive. Throughout islands in the Caribbean, a group of large lizards known as Rock iguana (genus Cyclura), and resembling miniature dinosaurs, cling to existence in the face of a range of threats, with habitat loss due to uncontrolled development and introduced exotic predators topping the list. There are nine species of Rock iguanas and together they represent the most endangered group of lizards in the world. Most are in need of urgent conservation measures, and until zoos began to intervene in the mid-1990s, several were on the brink of extinction. But when a group of iguana biologists and conservation professionals gathered in Fort Worth, Texas, in August 2001, it signaled the beginning of a new era for iguana conservation. The group convened to address the critical need to provide a reliable source of funding for iguana conservation, particularly to support ongoing recovery programs for some of the critically endangered Cyclura. Shortly thereafter, the International Iguana Foundation (IIF) was formally established as a nonprofit organization and with it, the future for endangered iguanas everywhere grew more secure. Indeed, looking back over the thirteen year history of the IIF, we can reflect with pride on the significant role that we played in the compelling conservation stories of the Jamaican, Grand Cayman Blue and Anegada Iguanas. Because when the IIF was formed, these “Big Three” species were teetering dangerously close to the brink of extinction. The IIF Board is a diverse group of individuals, comprised of field biologists, zoo administrators, captive managers and
veterinarians, who collectively bring years of multidisciplinary experience and a uniquely broad perspective to iguana conservation. Most IIF board members represent zoos that have made long-standing commitments to iguana conservation dating back to the 1990s, including, Sedgwick County Zoo, San Diego, Fort Worth, Audubon Institute, Shedd Aquarium, Gladys Porter, Miami, Brevard, the Wildlife Conservation Society, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. All of these zoos pay dues to the IIF that support our annual grants program which, since 2002, has awarded at total of $645,445.00 in thirteen grant cycles. The IIF mission is to ensure the survival of iguanas and their habitat through conservation, awareness, and scientific programs. This translates to one simple overarching goal: zero iguana extinctions. For this goal to be attained, the IIF has out of necessity had to expand our capacity to raise the necessary financial resources to effectively implement iguana conservation and research programs. To ensure that our funds are reaching the highest priority species, we work in tandem with the Iguana Specialist Group (ISG) of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and provide critical support to programs highlighted in the ISG’s Conservation Action Plan and in their various Species Recovery Plans. We also focus on species ranked Critically Endangered (CR) by the IUCN Red List—an index of the extinction risk that species face. To date over 75% of the nearly $2M that IIF has raised have gone to awards and grants, or to fund direct conservation program costs. One of IIF’s most noteworthy achievements has been our long-term support of iguana head-start and release programs, where in both Jamaica and Anegada, British Virgin Islands, these techniques have been the core contributor to the recovery
of those species in the wild. To date the IIF has funded the successful reintroduction of 255 Jamaican iguanas and 195 Anegada iguanas back to native habitat. Today headstart and release programs are recognized as viable conservation strategies for restoring heavily-depleted wild populations of iguanas, particularly when the primary threat is predation by introduced predators such as cats and mongoose. Recognizing that iguanas can’t survive unless suitable habitat remains, the IIF has purchased two parcels of land in the Dominican Republic that support a high density of nests of the critically endangered Ricord’s iguana. Protecting this land from agricultural development is our primary goal, but we also monitor for the presence of dogs during the nesting season; feral dogs are well known to kill female iguanas when they are at their most vulnerable—out in the open, trying to nest. While most people may regard the IIF as an organization with a strictly Caribbean focus, in recent years we have been able to expand our portfolio of projects to include spiny-tailed iguanas (Ctenosaura) in both Mexico and Central America (there are 18 species, all poorly known, with ten under some degree of threat), and the enigmatic iguanas of the Fiji Islands in the Pacific. (The Fiji Iguanas are an enigma because all the remaining 40+ species of iguanas are found in the New World / Americas). Since 2006 the IIF has made substantial contributions to improving our understanding of the biology of Ctenosaura including determining the extent of their distribution, habitat requirements and the threats they face; it is only through increased knowledge that we will be able to implement meaningful conservation actions. In the Fiji islands, our work has resulted in the description of one iguana species new to science—with possibly another five awaiting description—and the recent discovery of iguanas on islands where they were believed to have gone extinct. While the IIF has been able to “hold the line” and not lose any species to extinction, the group is constantly faced with worthy projects that are in serious need of financial support. Difficult choices have to be made, and those decisions are made even more difficult with the realization that tried and tested conservation solutions exist to help most species. However, the pace of recovery is dictated by funding and for some species, rather than boldly forging ahead, we have to wait and hope for the best. Our challenge is to become better positioned financially to allow iguana conservation to move ahead at a pace that matches the need. For endangered iguanas worldwide, the IIF offers a fighting chance at survival.
Sedgwick County Zoo achieved a milestone in captive breeding last year with the Critically Endangered Jamaican Iguana, hatching the species for the second year in a row under the leadership of Herpetology Curator and IIF Board Member Nate Nelson! The Zoo is also pleased to support the IIF through our Quarters for Conservation program. With your help, $2.50 of every membership and 25¢ of every admission goes to this program, we have been able to give IIF $5,000 in 2014 to support their ongoing conservation, awareness and scientific programs.
Learn more about the International Iguana Foundation: Website: http://iguanafoundation.org/ Facebook: @InternationalIguanaFoundation Twitter: @iguanafndn
13
ANIMALS & NATURE
Pete's Plant Tips A look at the work in the Jungle
as a challenge to water effectively and, more importantly, as a potential danger to our young guests who might choose to leave the upper path area. Other areas that had the same issues were corrected with new terracing. Next, we will be adding new stones in and around the waterfall pond and to the stream that meanders from the waterfall to the moat. This will give a new look to a favorite part of a visit to the Jungle exhibit for many people. Finally we were able to get started in the Jungle exhibit with the horticultural renovations. The roof is on (looks fantastic!), new heating and air conditioning units are up and running (feels fantastic!), and our graphics department has completed their work (fantastic work!). Finally, we can start the fun work! We started the New Year by amending the soil throughout the Jungle with cotton boll compost. I chose to use bagged compost for a variety of reasons. First, for its sterility: I wanted to avoid bringing in any weed seeds or fungi that would cause more harm than good. Second, I chose it for its ease of incorporation into the gardens. Rather than haul in wheelbarrows of the smelly good stuff, we were able to bring in the bags and station them throughout the Jungle, cut open the bags and dump them at regular intervals throughout. We then used 3 prong cultivators and hoes to work the compost into the soil. We thoroughly watered and moved on to the next projects. Next was re-terracing areas that have, in the past, been erosion problem areas. We used both boulders and large logs to fix these problem areas, like the hill just outside of the exhibit known, affectionately, as the bat cave. This area, over the past several years, had become very steep and we saw it
We are planning on adding another water feature under the rope bridge. I’ve always liked the sound of water and look forward to this addition to the Jungle. It will be bookended by one of my favorite species of tropical plants, the croton. We’ve found some unique varieties and, with the increase in light through the new roof, I think they will look spectacular. We have many hours of work ahead of us throughout the spring before we reopen on Memorial Day weekend. I can’t wait to show off all the hard work the horticulture team and I have put in. Many, many new plants, new gardens focusing on specific types of plants, and plants that serve a purpose will be part of the exhibit. We are even including a succulent garden, right in the middle of the Jungle! A final note: many of you will remember the stone sculpture that used to reside in our lobby under the rain dome. We’ve tucked it away within the Jungle. If you can’t find it, find me and I’ll show you its new home.
Fruit Bats in Training
WELCOME
to Your NEW HOME!
The residents of the Jungle exhibit have spent almost a year in various behind the scenes areas of the Zoo. Soon it will be time to gather them and introduce them back to the Jungle. But it’s not as easy as just opening the doors and releasing them all back into the building! There is a distinct plan in place. Animal care staff has examined each species to determine which groups might be the most territorial, those that might have similar territories and those that seem to get along with everyone. From there they can start planning the reintroductions in waves.
The bats have been a little less active in their temporary home. But keepers have done an excellent job of keeping them healthy and fit during this time. The bats diet changed to a low intensity diet to help keep off any unwanted extra weight. The keepers have also been working on a little exercise in the form of target training. This has helped keep the bats moving and to retain some of their strength. This training will also continue once the bats return to the Jungle. So the next time you’re in the Jungle, you just might catch a training session with the bats!
The plan is to start with the least territorial of the species like mousebirds, turquoise tanagers, fruit doves and pigeons. Introducing them first gives these species a chance to get a lay of the land and to find safe place to go when the more territorial species arrive. Then each new group of species introduced will be placed in howdy cages. This area gives the new group of birds a chance to get a sense of their new surroundings and to experience the sights and sounds from a controlled space. The birds that have already set up territories can also come to the cage to inspect the new residents. Keepers can observe these interactions and note if there is any obvious aggression between groups or individuals. Once the new group is comfortable with the new surroundings they will be released to be free flight in the Jungle. This process will be repeated over a two to three week period of adding new groups to their new home. With each new group introduced the territories of different birds will adjust and the hierarchy of the groups will shift. It will likely be another two to three weeks before all of the residents have fully adjusted to all the new wonders of the Jungle! 15
To inspire discovery, appreciation, and respect for animals and nature
PLANNING YOUR VISIT
Let Your Imagination Run Wild We'll Take Care of the Details!
Whether you are planning a family reunion, company picnic, office meeting or whatever your imagination holds—we have the capabilities and resources to offer a truly unique social experience.
Summer Hours: Winter Hours: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Visit scz.org to purchase tickets or renew your membership.
TAKE YOUR PICK! WE’RE OPEN 364 DAYS A YEAR!
From the drama of The Downing Gorilla Forest to the serenity of the Cessna Penguin Cove, we have a variety of venues that are sure to create an atmosphere your guests will never forget.
Plan a trip to the Zoo with family and friends! Speed up your rate of entry by purchasing any additional tickets online at scz.org for family or friends who don’t have a membership. You can print tickets at home and everyone can enjoy the Zoo adventure that much quicker!
We're here to help you customize your experience and give your guests an event they will always remember.
Regular Admission • Adults (ages 12+) $13.95 • Senior Citizens (62+) $11.95 • Children (ages 3–11) $8.95 • Children ages 2 and under Free
For more information visit the Group Event page at scz.org. Dates are filling up fast for spring and summer dates! Call Today—316.266.8252
FREE Tram Tour
Enjoy a FREE narrated tram tour of the Zoo! You can hop on or off at any of the five designated tram stops. Using the tram to get around the Zoo allows you to see more of the Zoo during your visit! And it’s FREE! All aboard! (Weather permitting.)
Wheelchair Rental: • Push wheelchairs: $5 per visit • Electric wheelchairs: $25/3 hours, $5 each additional hour
Stroller Rental:
MARCH
MAY
zoo gift shop coupon
zoo gift shop coupon
Regular priced merchandise only.
Regular priced merchandise only.
Regular priced merchandise only.
15 Plush
% OFF
• Single stroller: $6 • Double stroller: $9
Giraffe Feeding Station: • Monday – Friday: 11:00 a.m. – Noon • Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (staff & weather permitting) Just $2 per person/per feeding
APRIL
zoo gift shop coupon
valid from 3/1/15 to 3/31/15 One Coupon per person/per purchase. Must have membership ID and coupon to redeem.
15 Home
% OFF
Accessories
15 T-shirts and % OFF
Sweatshirts
(Statues, Glass Items, Soap Stones, Pillows, etc.)
(does not include E is for... or Special Event T's)
valid from 4/1/15 to 4/30/15 One Coupon per person/per purchase. Must have membership ID and coupon to redeem.
valid from 5/1/15 to 5/31/15 One Coupon per person/per purchase. Must have membership ID and coupon to redeem.