Colchester Zoo Magazine Autumn/Winter 2017

FREE Autumn 2017

Colchester Zoo’s UmPhafa Nature Reserve updates!

go behind the scenes!

Meet our new arrivals!

Get closer Registered Charity No. 1105621

with an Animal Experience!

HELLO! Zoo events!

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T LATES NEWS!

www.colchesterzoo.org

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velopments! e d & s l a iv r r a New

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NEW

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Contents:

for 2017!

Zoo Passes

pg 5

Dates for your Diary

pg 6

Halloween

pg 7

Christmas

pg 8 - 9

Zoo News

pg 10, 11, 20 & 21

Animal Experiences Action for the Wild

Animal Adoptions

Kids’ Activities MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

pg 13

pg 14

© Debbie Pavier

UmPhafa Reserve

© David Marsay

pg 19 pg 22 - 23

Corporate Opportunities Winter Warmers

pg 25 pg 26

Christmas Shopping pg 28 - 29 Conservation at Home

pg 16 - 17 © Matt Barker

pg 18

A Day in the Life

pg 15

Fun Facts

2

pg 12

Kids’ Experiences

© Christian Volke

pg 30

To advertise in the next edition of t: the Colchester Zoo magazine, contac marketing@colchesterzoo.org 01206 331 292 ext . 226 / 249 / 245

Welcome It is our great pleasure to welcome you to the autumn edition of Colchester Zoo’s magazine.

It’s full of news all about the latest developments and arrivals, as well as details of our ever popular upcoming Shriek Week and Fright Night Halloween events, plus, of course, Christmas!

AT THE ZOO...

You can feed the elephan ts and giraffes yourself during your visit or get even closer by book ing one of our many animal experie nces, including the chance to be a zoo keeper for a day!

(Additiona

Our critical conservation work continues apace on Colchester Zoo’s charity, Action for the Wild’s, UmPhafa Reserve in South Africa, as well as other projects all over the world.

Registered Charity No. 1105621

Your visits and purcha ses help to fund Colch ester Zoo’s leading conservation, education and resear ch work, so each and every vis it you make really co unts. © Scott Davey

© Elephant Orphanage Project

l charges apply)

he lso visit t as a n a c u o Y hristm Acacia C EE Ark and s for FR gift shop oo ing the Z r e t n e t u witho opping derful sh ue n o w a r fo niq ce with u experien as gifts Christm ucts! and prod

We hope to welcome you to soon for an enjoyable day out!

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

3

Sainsbury’s Charity of the Year

Egg, tomato and taleggio breakfast pies

Yes, you can totally have pie for breakfast!

Each

ingredients

s er vi

Ready in: 25 minutes Preparation time: 10 minutes : vides Cooking time: 15 minutes pro Energy g n Serves 4 2002kj / 526kcal / 26%

Fat 36.1g / 52% Saturates 17.4g / 87% Sugars 4.6g / 5% Salt 2.1g / 35% Carbohydrate 12.4g Fibre 1.4g Protein 8.4g % of the Reference Intakes

320g light puff pasty 12 cherry tomatoes 150g Taleggio cheese, sliced 4 free-range eggs 1 tbsp chopped flat-leaf parsley To serve: 1 free-range egg beaten 1 pack cherry tomatoes on the vine, roasted

method 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/gas mark 6.

Cut the puff pastry into 4 equal rectangles then place on a flat baking sheet and score a border into each tart roughly 2mm deep. Bake for 6 minutes until just puffed up. Remove the layer of pastry in the middle that has puffed up, making sure you still have a layer of pastry on the base and the border is in place.

Leave to cool.

2. Halve the tomatoes and arrange them around the insides of the pies. Arrange the taleggio between the tomatoes and create a space in the middle to place the eggs. Break an egg into a small bowl and place in the middle of the pie, then sprinkle with the parsley.

3. Brush with beaten egg and bake for 12 - 15 minutes until the egg is just set. Serve with roasted cherry tomatoes.

Christmas is coming!

This year’s charity for the store is the Robin Cancer Trust, which was set up by the Freeman family following the untimely death of their son, Robin, aged just 24. stinal Germ Cell Robin was diagnosed in Januar y 2011 with a media After being diagnosed Tumour, a grapefruit sized tumour in his chest. battle surrounded by his with secondary leukaemia, Robin finally lost his The store is delighted 2011. ber family in St. Helena Hospice in Decem chosen by customers was it after year this y charit the rting suppo to be during the summer.

Sainsbury’s Stanway store manager, Kevin Jones, talks about the company’s progress around 3 of their corporate values.

Sourcing with

Integrity Our customers trust us to act responsibly when it comes to the economic, environment al and social impacts of our raw materials. At Sainsbury’s we have a Sustainabilit y Standards programme, a broad based sustainability management frame work for the farmers and producers of Sainsbury’s 35 key crops and ingredients.

We are committed to sourcing these key crops and peer reviewed standards by 2020. The standards ingredients according to these independently will support farmer’s work and provide them with data and information that will enable them to identif y, measure and manage these aspect s of their business in the face of escalating challenges. The standards have been developed over three years by over 50 independent industry exper ts.

These build on Sainsbury’s own sustainability exper growers both in the UK, and internationally, and ience in providing direct support to farmers and give credit to internationally recognised certifi cations, including Rainforest Alliance, Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and Red Tractor.

Respect for the environment

BCI Cotton - Our aim is to source 100% of our cotton from sustainable sources by 2020. We are making good progress towards this target and, in 2016/17, sustainably sourced cotton comprised 60% of our overall cotton use.

To support our sustainable cotton strategy, we continue to be active members of the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI), which is an international, non-profit organisation working directly with over 1 million farmers in 20 major cotton producing countries to promote sustainable cotton farming practices.

Living Healthy Lives

Frozen Fruit - As part of our commitment to build the nutrient profile of our own brand food, we’ve relaunched our own range of frozen fruit, adding new lines and six frozen smoothie blends to help customers more easily increase their fruit and vegetable consumption.

Look out for all those special Christmas gifts coming this year in Sainsbury’s... ... From entertaining gifts and toiletries to clothing and home accessories, all making for those special gifts!

We’ve also improved the packaging to make the product more convenient and more easily resealable to help customers reduce waste.

For more information around Sainsbury’s corporate values visit

www.sainsburys.co.uk

BUY 4 or more &

SAVE 10 % !

Buy a

Visit for just 63p instead of admission! per week!

Based on C Platinum Pahild ss

ZOO try n e e e r F r to otheed select ! zoos

Discounts for shops, experiences and food!

12 or 24 months unlimited entry!* 9th 10th

Exclusive passhold events!er

prices held for 2017!

Š Robert Palmer

%

364

*Additional terms and conditions and charges apply for secondary attractions, including Fright Nights and the Magic of Christmas.

Zoo access on presentation of a valid Zoo Pass

Purchase at the Zoo entrance or www.colchesterzoo.org

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

5

n bu y e-t ic ke ts iine advance onl a n d S AV E !

DATES for your diary...

21st to 31st October

FIND OUT MORE ON PG 7

25th & 26th November, 2nd & 3rd, 9th & 10th and 16th - 24th December

Breakfast with Santa!

PRE-BOOKING REQUIRED

Half term

26th November, 2nd & 3rd, 9th & 10th and 16th - 24th December

10th - 18th February

Visit Colchester Zoo during February half term!

With our daily encounters, animal feeds and fantastic indoor and outdoor play areas, Colchester Zoo is a great day out for all the family during February half term!

FIND OUT MORE

21st, 24th, 26th, 28th & 31st October FIND OUT MORE ON PG 8

STARLIGHT NIGHTS

25th November, 16th & 23rd December

Supper with Santa! 2nd, 9th, 20th and 21st December

PRE-BOOKING REQUIRED

Valentine’s Day

Mothers’ Day

Treat mum to a special day out this Mothers’ Day!

14th February Share the love around Valentine’s weekend!

Looking for something to do that’s a bit different for Valentine’s Day?

11th March

Learn all about our amazing zoo mums and the relationships they have with their young during our daily animal encounters!

Stop by some of our daily encounters as our keepers tell you all about the quirkier side of animals in love!

Why not enjoy a unique date at Colchester Zoo!

These are just some of the events for 2017/18. Please see the full events calendar at www.colchesterzoo.org NB. Colchester Zoo will charge a supplement for passholders, Tesco vouchers and any other persons not paying full admission for entry to certain secondary attractions included within special events such as, but not limited to, Fright Nights and The Magic of Christmas. Please ensure you are familiar with the updated terms and conditions.

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MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

© David Marsay

© Tom Smith

© NWY Photography

© Scott Davey

© Danny Gentry

21st to 31st October OPEN UNTIL 17:00

Join us for spook-tacular fun throug ho

You can get involved with the fun by dressing up too!

ut October half term.

FANTASTIC THEMED ENCOUNTERS AND ACTIVITIES

MAKE POTIONS & SPELLS IN THE WITCHES’ CRAFT COVEN

SPOOKY SNACKS AND DELICIOUS TREATS

Extended openings for

SELECTED NIGHTS ONLY

and fits of laughter Stay after dark for hair-raising screams ed nights!* ect sel on m 0p 9:3 il unt en op ain rem as we FRIGHTFULLY EXCITING ATTRACTIONS

21st, 24th, 26th, 28th & 31st October

SECONDARY ATTRACTIONS ARE: THE HOSPITAL OF HORRORS, ON THE EDGE, VOODOO SWAMP & TRAIN OF TERROR!

SPOOKTACULAR LIGHTING! AFTER DARK FEEDS! TASTY TREATS, DRINKS & FOOD!

*Although access to the park during Fright Nights is included in your admission, some additional attractions are only accessible with a valid wristband, which can be purchased for just £5.00. Find out what’s included in an optional wristband on our website.

Pre-purchase yo wristband ONLINur E for entry to secondary attractions!

Find out more...

01206 331292 / www.colchesterzoo.org / enquiries@colchesterzoo.org / visit Guest Services MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

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25th & 26th November, nd 2 & 3rd, 9th & 10th and 16th - 24th December

Add a magical sparkle to your festivities this Christmas!

See Santa’s beautiful reindeer!

Discover the Santa Experience and take an * enchanting sleigh ride to meet Father Christmas!

Leave with your very own ‘Winter’ the reindeer soft toy!*

STARLIGHT NIGHTS

Get crafty at the Elves’ Workshop!

magical illuminations!

Enjoy all our Magic of Christmas events as they continue into the evening!

Book your Christmas Experiences!

PRE-BOOKING REQUIRED**

Breakfast with Santa!

Accompany the chief elf to wake up Santa and help him get ready for his busy day ahead! **

Supper with Santa!

See the magical Christmas lights and enjoy a tasty supper with Santa & Mrs Claus! **

Find out more...

Open until 8:30pm!

25th November, 16th & 23rd December

26th NOV, 2 & 3rd, 9th & 10th and 16th - 24th DEC nd

2nd, 9th, 20th and 21st DEC

NEW!

* Requires paid entry to the Santa Experience, unless a combination ticket is purchased, which includes access to the experience. Terms and conditions apply. Please check website for details. ** Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. Please check website for details.

01206 331292 / www.colchesterzoo.org / enquiries@colchesterzoo.org / visit Guest Services 8

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

On the 1st December 2012, a very special reindeer was born.

This reindeer’s name is Winter. He is a very playful reindeer with long, gangly legs and big brown eyes...

Winter became great friends with Rudolph after being found in a snowstorm and is now coming with Santa to Colchester Zoo to meet the children and families!

me friends with Hear Winter’s full story of how he becata at our very special San help to m drea Rudolph and achieved his ic of Christmas events!

‘Winter’s Tale’ story time during our Mag

“Elves! Look sharp!” called out Santa. “I need you to get a message to the children and all their families who are visiting Colchester Zoo. Tell them to get ready with their scarves, hats, gloves, Christmas jumpers and smiles. Winter’s coming!”

!

EW R C O O Z e h me e t t L OUT OOK NEWE FOR OUR ST RE WINT CRUIT, E COMI NG S R, OON!

RUBEE Cute and cuddly with a big bushy tail and bright pink bow!

MILO sonny stan Leader of

The shyest of the group!

the crew and their adventures!

He’s the tallest of the gang!

puddles A real cheeky character!

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

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ZOO NEWS

Colchester Zoo is home to over 260 species!

Find out what some of them have been up to recently and learn more about our latest arrivals!

Gelada Baby boom!

Colchester Zoo’s group of Gelada baboons have welcomed some new arrivals!

This summer we have welcomed a young male born to mum, Thandi, followed just a few days later by Keecha’s baby.

Both are experienced mums and are two of the older females within the group.

They are both doing well and can be seen at the Gelada Plateau next to our meerkats at Suricata Sands. The youngsters will continue to stick close to mum, but are gradually spending more time exploring their new home as they grow into infant baboons.

Meet our first tamandua baby!

Colchester Zoo has welcomed the arrival of a baby Tamandua for the first time in our history!

Our male, Oreo, and female, Ruth, were first introduced to one another in February 2017 and they have been living happily together ever since.

Please be aware Ruth and baby may not be visible at all times as they spend time in their bedding area and nest box.

10

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

Keepers had seen mating behaviour from our pair, but the exact due date of the bundle of joy was unknown, so it was a pleasant surprise for keepers when they first spotted the baby on the morning of 26th September.

Young tamanduas are born well developed and spend the first few weeks of life clinging to mum’s back.

Colchester Zoo welcomes an adorable new arrival!

ZOO NEWS

On the 1st July 2017, Colchester Zoo welcomed an adorable new arrival, Nala the Serval kitten!

Nala is being cared for by the keepers of our displays team and it is hoped as she grows older she will be introduced to our visitors during our daily Wild Displays.

New arrival for our Victoria crowned pigeon pair! chick, Almost a year after welcoming their last pigeons our breeding pair of Victoria crowned July. welcomed their fifth chick at the end of

Mandrills Suki & Gismo become first-time parents!

Colchester Zoo is home to the largest Mandrill group in Europe!

On Sunday 10th September, Mandrills Suki and Gismo became first-time parents as Suki gave birth to a healthy baby boy!

The new arrival is sharing a home with aviary mum, Violet, and dad, Ozz y, at their n the nest

by Penguin Shores and has already flow and begun to explore its new home!

Victoria crowned pigeons are the largest pigeons in the world and are well known for their blue colouring and spectacular crest of feathers.

This is Suki’s first offspring and she has taken to motherhood extremely well, providing the tender loving care that is vital for the youngster during his first few weeks of life. As the baby gets stronger he will gradually begin to explore his home, but always within close proximity of Suki.

The Mandrill is the biggest monkey in the world and the most distinctive, with their extremely colourful faces and bright red behind!

Mandrill babies, similar to many primate young, cling to their mums when they are first born until they are strong enough to become independent.

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

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s e c n e i r e p x E l a Anim

Perfect gift for someone special this Christmas!

at

GET CLOSER! Take part in one of our many animal experiences!

Full days, half days and shorter experiences for all ages.

Plus experiences for corporate events, including team building!

(See pg 25 for more details)

ZOO HOLDERS PASS R DISCOUNECEIVE FOR SELE TS EXPERIEN CTED CES!

If you are visiting on a quiet day, y abilit there may even be avail imal an an in to participate experience on the day! at the Just check on arrival on Experiences Recepti

Hen PARTIES Explore love in the animal kingdom with a hen party for the bride and her friends, which includes fun activities and hands-on animal encounters to remember forever!

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MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

Š Tom Smith

Terms and conditions apply.

Gift vouchers available for most experiences!

Looking for a unique way to celebrate your final before the ring?

fling

Find out more...

Email: experiences@colchesterzoo.org Tel: 01206 331292 ext. 232 / 237 www.colchesterzoo.org

What is Action for the Wild?

Action for the Wild is Colchester Zoo’s conservation charity, which gained its status in 2004.

To date Action for the Wild has donated over £2 million to conservation projects worldwide. These funds are put towards building work, staff wages, medical treatment, food, research projects and more within each organisation.

FIND OUT MORE ON PG 22

s its own wildlife reserve Action for the Wild also run Phafa, which aims in South Africa known as Um al flora and fauna. to introduce and care for loc

Charity No. 1105621

Check out the latest news from some of the projects we support...

The immediate goal is the creation of a red panda protected community forest in eastern Nepal, which will be the world’s first protected area dedicated to red panda conservation.

Update from Red Panda Network Project The Red Panda Network is working in Nepal to protect and maintain a viable red panda population.

Colchester Zoo’s Action for the Wild began supporting this project in 2014, joining forces with the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria’s (EAZA) European Endangered Species Breeding Programme to help fund Forest Guardians to work within the red panda project area. In 2017, the Red Panda Network sponsored 73 Forest Guardians, and of these, EAZA funding is supporting 8 of them.

Since 2010, Colchester Zoo’s Action for the Wild has donated £34,000 to sponsor the Orangutan Foundation, funding their project on Bornean Orangutan Translocations and Veterinary Support in Lamandau Wildlife Reserve, Indonesian Borneo.

Orangutan Foundation project update !

The continuing number of orangutans needing The Orangutan Foundation helps to fund rescue highlights the and operate five release camps in Lamandau. value of this project in They rescue wild orangutans found stranded an area where orangutan in community land or in oil palm plantations. habitat is continually These orangutans are then released into Lamandau threatened.

where the Orangutan Foundation works to safeguard reintroduced orangutans through protection, the provision of veterinary care and monitoring.

How can you help?

If you are interested in helping Action for the Wild’s projects, such as the Red Panda Network, then DONATE TODAY!

You can do this online, during your visit to Colchester Zoo at an animal encounter or by supporting our own project in South Africa, the UmPhafa Reserve.

Visit www.actionforthewild.org © Orangutan Foundation

© Red Panda Network

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

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adopt an animal!

Do you share a name with one of our animals or do they remind you a little of someone you know?

Or why not mark a special occasion in a unique way by adopting an animal at Colchester Zoo? An Adoption Box is a gr gift for someone spec eat ial this Christmas!

(Selected animals on

ly)

An adoption helps contribute to their care , and assists our charity

Corporate Adoption

You can choose almost any of the animals at Colchester Zoo to adopt and receive a photograph and information all about your new charge, including a personalised certificate... PLUS more benefits!

Assist conse rvation & promote y our involvem ent to stakehold ers with a corporate ad option.

01206 331292 / www.colchesterzoo.org / enquiries@colchesterzoo.org / visit Guest Services 14

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

Š David Marsay

Unlike some tongues, the human tongue is only used to eat, taste and create sounds.

Other animals can also use their tongue to clean and to cool down; kangaroos and wallabies can’t sweat or pant, instead they use their tongue to lick their arms and as the moisture left behind evaporates it cools the blood, just like sweating does.

Animal Tongues!

FUN F A C T S Do reindeers have red noses?

They do! Reindeers have lots of blood vessels in their noses, which means a vast amount of blood is able to pass through them.

This gives their nose a slight red colour, keeping it warm and sensitive whilst they graze.

DID YOU KNOW? Reindeers have 25% more blood vessels in their noses compared to humans.

GREAT GREY HUNTERS

Geladas

The great grey owl may seem big, but most of its body is made up of feathers!

They do, however, have the biggest face of any owl.

This is because their facial feathers act as a radar dish, and with the help of their asymmetrical ears, great grey owls can pinpoint small rodents underneath the deep snow.

When hunting they can then dive into hard snow as deep as their body, in order to catch their prey below.

the monkey who loves a good chat!

Geladas are one of the most vocal primates, with a level of complex vocalisation close to humans.

Whilst grazing they chatter to each other.

They have a large range of calls, including noises that improve social bonds, reassure one another and warn of danger, to name just a few! © Robert Palmer

© Scott Davey

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

15

Kid s’ Act iv it ie s Get creative!

Riddle me this!

zoo animal!

Draw your favourite

s, I’m stripy and furry with big feet and claw fours.

I come from the east and I walk on all fat, I’m orange and black, and I’m fluffy, not house cat!

But don’t come to stroke me; I’m not a What am I? ___________________

Monkeying around!

33 32

Join the dots!

JOIN THE DOTS to reveal Kera the ____!

34

35

31

30 29

How well do you know your monkeys?

28

Solve the monkey species

36 38

37

CLUE:

The pictures reveal the sp ecies and the first letter!

anagrams to discover the name

27

of our new female bush dog!

39

We’ve solved the f irst one for you!

40

26

M 12

41

13

11 3

S

19

10

1

24 18 17

9 2

8 4 5

16

25

23

14 15

7

16

20

22 21

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MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

www.colchesterzoo.org

C

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L N

A M D R

L I

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D L

Q S

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Answer: © Trevor Hewitt

© Debbie Pavier

© Scott Davey

© David Marsay

© NWY Photography

e! c n e r e f if d e h t Spot

There are 5 differences between our bush dogs!

Can you f ind them all?

DID YOU KNOW? Bush dogs have webbed feet, and can dive and swim underwater!

Perfect for a See our new semi-aquatic life bush dogs whilst in the forest! you queue for the Lost Madagascar Express train!

Word search!

There are 10 canine related words!

Words may be found forwards, backwards, downwards and diagonally!

BARK GROWL

PAWS TAIL

DID YOU KNOW?

PACK BUSH

HUNTING WOLF

FOX CLAWS

A J GO R E R DXO F K P LPO R E R L E R P H U N T I N G G SWE P H F P R G OO T CU T K E NS I A I O T R U G C WA C U L A E I B A R K D A A U G C F L A R N I ATOVSAXEA I NK Q L B U S H A NWN Z C A L A L L G C N O E A T E U L B S A I SAVA T E A DW B T B HA I V O L L L U B S WA P

l canine We have severa ester Zoo, species at Colch including:

Dogs belong to the Canidae (canine) family, which is divided into two tribes: those related to wolves (Canini) and those related to foxes (Vulpini).

Bush dog

Grey wolf

Hyena are not canines! They are more closely related to cats!

Fennec fox

African hunting dog MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

DID YOU KNOW?

X

17

!

Kids’ Experiences at We offer a selection of birthday packages designed to suit a range of ages, including:

nic - 3+ Tedd y Bear s’ Pic Party with Puddles - 5+ Animal Antics Party - 8+

Be a PARTY ANIMAL for outstanding value for money!

Nature Detective Squad - 8+ - All ages Jungle Tumble Play Pa rty Terms and conditions apply.

Perfect gift for the kids this Christmas!

*Additional children can be added to parties at an extra cost.

Packages available for up to 10 children (15 children for Jungle Tumble Play Party)* Find out more about our great party packages ONLINE!

Kids’ Zoo Academy These experiences are perfect for any child who dreams of one day working with animals to enjoy a ‘hands on’ lesson with expert tuition from our keepers!

2 hour packages include:

Fledgling Keeper Age 6 - 9 yrs Afternoon experience 13:30 - 15:30 18

• Complimentary entry for the whole day for participating child and supervising adult over the age of 18yrs • 2 hours spent with the animals and their keepers • Refreshment voucher • Personalised certificate and souvenir bag

Zoo Cadet Age 10 - 15 yrs Morning experience 10:00 - 12:00 MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

Terms and conditions apply.

Find out more...

Email: experiences@colchesterzoo.org Tel: 01206 331292 ext. 232 / 237 www.colchesterzoo.org

A day in the life of the Sealion Team! alion team care As their name suggests, our se s, but they also for our five Patagonian sealion pular species here look after one of the most po oldt penguins! at Colchester Zoo... our Humb

Like all of our keeping teams, cleaning is one of the biggest tasks of the day, with nest boxes to clean, pebbles to hose down and of course this team also have the task of keeping our impressive sealion tunnel clean!

Our sealion keepers also have 3 large pools, which they must look after; this is done through a series of water tests and a large filtration system!

This is done on a regular basis by diving! s, r task lete the e h t o a ny om p ll as m t always c GE part e w s U s A is a H rs mu keepe rep as this ns’ and o fish p h our seali t o of b ins’ diet! pengu

The perfect g if for someo t n special th e is Christmas !

There are a number of key tasks they Sealion training/ have to complete throughout their day:

displays

rt are an important pa Animal health checks everyone is healthy. re of the day making su our penguins as well of t un co a s ons.

This include checks for the seali h et te d an as full body You may have also seen some of the fantastic presentations our sealions take part in. This involves training all five of our females; something both the animals and keepers enjoy as a form of enrichment and bonding.

t f enrichmen o m r o f a s A t sealions pain e h t , g in in a tr aubles!

Christmas b There’s skill and thought involved as they have to hold the brush and paint the object, which sometimes includes the trainers! *Subject to availability

Buy your sealion bauble from the Acacia Shop at the Zoo or from our online shop at:

www.colchesterzoo.org*

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

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ZOO NEWS

s e m o c l e w o o Z r e Colchest back bush dogs!

Bush dogs are back at Colchester Zoo for the first time in over 17 years!

You can see the bush dogs in their beautiful enclosure whilst queuing for the Lost Madagascar Express train!

The first new arrival was a female from France called Nina who arrived in July, followed a short time later by her new male companion from Denmark, Niko.

The pair has spent the summer settling into their new surroundings, an area that runs around and under the bridge, which visitors queue along for the Lost Madagascar Express Road Train. This allows visitors the chance to observe these fantastic animals whilst waiting to embark on their journey to Lost Madagascar.

Young ring-tailed lemurs are named!

Back in April we announced the arrival of six ring-tailed lemur babies who have now been sexed and named by their keepers!

20

The group of youngsters are now nearly fully grown and Mum, Andro, gave birth to the first of our new arrivals with are enjoying their a single female offspring who has now been named Kit Kat! independence as they Kit Kat was closely followed by Lexi’s male twins named spend their days Rolo and Buttons. exploring their home.

A few days later Alina gave birth to a male called Aero, before experienced mum and Grandmother, Madison, completed the baby boom with the birth of twins, one male named Oreo and a female named Ripple!

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

© Tom Smith

© Christian Volke

© David Marsay

Young Kirk’s Dik Dik meets her family!

ZOO NEWS

Back in June Kirk’s dik-dik, Daenerys, gave birth to a healthy calf after successfully breeding with male dik-dik, Demetri.

Unfortunately, Daenerys wasn’t taking to motherhood so the difficult decision was made to hand rear the young calf to give her the best chance of survival.

After many name suggestions received from our supporters, keepers chose to name the calf ‘Dakarai’, which has an African meaning of happiness/joy.

Since being born, Dakarai has been closely monitored by her keepers and we’re pleased to report that she continues to grow healthy and strong! Dakarai is now weaned and has been reunited with her parents in their home, staying with her family overnight!

S E G N A H C E M O S ROAR O T G N I M O C E R A

You can still see our colobus monkeys in the Kingdom of the Wild building where they will be temporarily housed whilst this project is underway.

Phase 1 of the redevelopment of Lion Rock is now underway and has begun with the redevelopment of the black and white colobus monkey enclosure, which is next door to our lion enclosure.

The development will also see a new behindthe-scenes area added for our lion keepers, as well as add itional viewing for visitors, plus a heated cave and add itional area for our lions!

Watch this space for more news on this project and development information!

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

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u m p h a fa

UMPHA FA NEWS!

UmPhafa Dam gets an upgrade!

private

Interns and staff at Colchester Zoo’s UmPhafa Reserve have done an amazing job renovating the dam outside Elworthy House.

The reserve has two filtering systems going into this dam that recycle the waste water from Elworthy house and the staff accommodation. A reed bed filter, designed and created by previous interns, filters the water from the kitchen and showers (grey water) and our super Scarab Wastewater Treatment System deals with the rest (black water). Both these systems were put in place a couple of years ago, but the reed bed filter needed a bit of TLC. Now cleaned out and renovated, our dam will continue to help us recycle our water and provide a great source of water during these very dry winter months for the animals!

Blesbok are released!

At the start of the summer a group of Blesbok were released

onto Colchester Zoo’s UmPhafa Private Nature Reserve!

The release is important to keep the number of Blesbok in the area high and increase the chance of breeding and future young.

Lights, camera... action!

We have a number of camera traps placed across Colchester Zoo’s UmPhafa Reserve, which capture images of some of the fantastic species that call this area home!

Most recently we have seen some fantastic footage of not one, not two, but three young leopard cubs in the area, warthogs enjoying their dinner and our impala herds going for a night time stroll!

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Did yo Both m u know? ale blesbok and female hav with th e horns, e female s being sli gh more sle tly nder.

nature reserve

The UmPhafa Priv ate Nature Reserve in South Africa was established in 2005 by Colchester Zoo’s c harity,

INTERNSHIPS (1 - 3 M ONTHS)

Looking to gain hands-on conservation experience?

Our internship programme offers anyone interested in African wildlife and conservation the chance to gain skills that help in the operation of a game reserve, including night time bush drives, behavioural studies, and flora and fauna survey work.

PLACEMENTS (2 WEEKS)

your chance to visit umphafa with our special two-week programme!

, in employment Whether you are a recent graduate unity for those who or retired, this is a fantastic opport explore a beautiful are keen to lend a hand to nature and busy season. par t of the world outside our usual 2017 onwards Please note, placements for November over. and 25 aged are open to persons

For more information: www.umphafa.org or umphafa@colchesterzoo.org

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All tours, accommodation, meals & transport (except flights) are included.

Places are limited!

Exclusively designed for Colchester Zoo !

ha s te am ed up w ith to offe r yo u th e HO LI DA Y O F A

LI FE TI M E!

Swaziland Travel to South Africa and iconic and visit some of the most n for an game reserves in the regio ed trip!

11 day, family friendly tailor For each booking Imaginative Traveller will donate £150 per person* to Colchester Zoo’s charity,

ase visit For a detailed itinerary ple bsite the Imaginative Traveller we Y! or call 01728 862219 TODA *Ts and Cs apply. Check website for details.

The place to stay in Essex from

per holiday home*

 Save 20% on your holiday when you call us and quote 'Colchester ZOO'**

Please pick up a printed version of this magazine for offer details.

Bring this voucher to our Reception for a FREE round of CRAZY GOLF ** Call us on 01206 382898 or visit www.waldegraves.co.uk WALDEGRAVES HOLIDAY PARK, MERSEA ISLAND, COLCHESTER, CO5 8SE

*Based on 4 night midweek break in March. **This cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Excluding High Season & School Holidays. CRAZY GOLF up to family of 4. T’s & C’s apply.

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- See the famed African BIG-5 - Fantastic sunsets - Amazing game drives and hikes - Experience traditional Zulu culture PLUS the exclusive chance to visit Colchester Zoo’s very own UmPhafa Reserve for the day!

S IE IT N U T R O P P O E T A R O P R O C

Colchester Zoo is well known for its conservation work and attracts visitors from all over the world.

Reach new markets by sponsoring a location at

It is a powerful conservation bra nd for your company to be associate d with in order to increase its own rec ognition and fulfil its CSR goals.

We offer a number of corporate opportunities, including: Company VIP away days Trade Ticket Accounts

With nearly 1 million visitors ann ually and around 70,000 annual Pas sholders, Colchester Zoo offers huge marketing opportunities to tap into.

Corporate Sponsorship

Advertising space in the Colchester Zoo Magazine ptions

o Corporate Ad

With different activities available, teams can focus on communication, planning, time budgeting, design, debating skills and reasoning, all whilst having fun!

Find out more...

Email: experiences@colchesterzoo.org Tel: 01206 331292 ext. 232 / 237 www.colchesterzoo.org

Team Building

Colche receives ster Zoo funding no external , support so corporate is further vital for its develop ment, as well as as projects sisting in the wild .

team building Colchester Zoo provides a unique location for your next team building event that’s sure to challenge, stimulate, reward and boost your team’s morale.

Full or half day package includes complimentary entry for the whole day, breakfast and lunch, morning/afternoon activities, including feeding of elephants, giraffes & penguins, and more!

Terms and conditions apply.

© Tom Smith

© David Marsay

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FUEL your ADVENTURE wit h our WINTER WARMERS! Check out some of our tasty food options available throughout the cool winter months!

Stop by Penguini's for a

Sweet Retreat

AFTER 2pm

Delicious new warm desserts.

The perfect treat on a chilly day! .

ble service restaurant

Have a break at our ta

s, st offer e e t la r u See o as gluten fre as well egetarian a nd v u s ! me n

Brighten up your coffee during the cool winter months with a shot of syrup ! We have a selection of seasonal flavours available throughout our outlets - just ask at the till! * Additional charge applies.

Feed the kids for under £5!

, including Offering tasty lunches day, of hearty pies, soup the s! he dis al and other season

Kid’s PIZZA and a JE

PLUS

LLY

a Capri Sun or water

!

at

We’re feeling festive!

Mince pies & mulled wine are available during our

Magic of Christmas events!

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Colchester Zoo continues to go green!

Stop by the Elves’ Kitchen!

Our straws are now completely compostable!

All our food is sourced as locally as possible and our ingredients are Red Tractor assured!

shopping A

ADVENTURE

UP TO 60% OFF EVERY DAY

PR OU DLY LI NK ED W IT H

AT

The Premier Outlet in Essex

freeport-braintree.com

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o o z e h t t a g shoppin This Christmas, spoil someone special with our range of festive gifts for the whole family, including experiences, cosy knits and more!* Keep warm with kn itted scarves, hats, mitt ens and more!

glass range

ng and Make your home welcomi les! cosy with Woodwick cand We have many Colchester Zoo-themed gif ts for all ages! le renda W w ! e ction iful n Beaut tmas colle Chris

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*Subject to availability

parking and entry to shops!

’s e to this season Add some sparkl range! h our jewellery celebrations wit

Shopping

Safari frieze

FREE

Unique gift idea s and stocking fillers

or yourself, Treat a loved one, PERIENCE! with an ANIMAL EX

A range of hands-on animal experience days to choose from!

Keeper for the day

Step into the boots of a zoo keeper for an exciting day that takes you closer to the animals than ever before, with time behind the scenes, a souvenir pack and more! *Open to guests 14 yrs and over. Anyone under the age of 18 yrs must be accompanied by an adult over 18 yrs who is also fully taking part in the experience.

A GIFT FROM US TO YOU! Spend a minimum of £10 in

Keeper Shadowing

Discount for a second person to take part in this experience with This 30 minute package offers the chance to enjoy you! an amazing, close-up experience with your favourite animal, including entry for the whole day, souvenir pack and more! * Minimum age limits apply, please check website for full details

gift vouchers We have a variety of , ces and Zoo Passes for Animal Experien vouchers! as well as monetary

15% off voucher

to use in our Acacia Christmas Gift Shop!*

shop online!

Adult GO TenLDPou PAS nds S Gift vouc her gift voucher © Michael Turner

Please pickARKupSHOPa printed version ofNCEthis GUEST SERVICES ON RECEPTImagazine EXPERIE foryouroffer details. during visit and you’ll receive a

THE SOUT HERN KITCHEN

Child PLATTeInN UPoMu gGiifft voouuchc ernPdAsSS

her

...Or an on adoption Make it even easier and shop online for all your Christmas gifts! Just visit the purchase website and click the ‘shop’ box! button.

www.colchesterzoo.org

* Terms and conditions apply. Check website for details.

Minimum spend must be in one transaction. Offer valid until 7th January 2018.

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29

During the cold months it can be hard for birds to find food through the hard ground and early morning frost. Bird feeders are a great way to provide them with food, attract more wildlife to your garden and, of course, they are also fun to make!

Co nservatio n at Ho me Make a winter bird feeder and help our feathered friends this winter!

Step 1

Mix your selection of dry mix together in a bowl.

NB. 2 parts dry mix to 1 part fat works well.

Step 3

Place your cutters on a tray and fill each one with the seed mixture.

Once they are full stick a piece of the straw into each so you have a hole to thread your string through when they are set.

As well as helping wildlife through winter, your garden also needs a helping hand!

Step 4

You will need: - Lard or solid ve getable fat - Bird seed, oats , sultanas, curran ts, unsalted peanuts (No need to use them all!)

- Large cutters in various shapes (We’ve chosen a Christmas theme! ) - Plastic drinking straws cut into pieces - String - Saucepan and wo oden spoon

Leave the feeders to set in a cool place overnight or place them in the fridge to speed up the setting time. Once set you can remove the piece of straw, thread your string and your bird feeder is ready for hanging!

As the frosts begin it is a great time to prune and dead head summer shrubs!

See our top three tips for gardens in winter!

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Slowly melt your chosen fat in a saucepan and remove from the heat. Stir in the dry mix coating it in the melted fat.

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 11

Plant a winter bed using flowers such as pansies, which prefer the cooler weather!

After Christmas you ca n shred your Christmas tree’s spines and use th em as mulch to help your other plants and beds!

© David Marsay

Qu ick tips to d o you r bit!

Step 2

A FESTIVE FEAST OF FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT

THE

CHRISTMAS

SHOW

Happy. High-achieving.

St Mary’s is a happy school, where every student is valued and encouraged to succeed.

Our students consistently achieve among the best GCSE results in the county, despite the fact that our school is not academically selective. Arts, sports, adventurous and charitable activities to develop their interests, characters and self-confidence. Girls aged 316 and boys aged 3-4 enjoy their school days and leave St Mary’s well prepared for the life that lies ahead.

St Mary’s

Colchester

Please contact our Registrar on 01206 216420 to arrange your visit. There’s more information on our school website www.stmaryscolchester.org.uk

The Variety Spectacular December 20th to 23rd

4 page ad-98x96mm.pdf

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For a professional caring service • 24-hour hospitalisation and emergency care provided on-site C

M

• Advanced diagnostic imaging including CT scanning service

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• Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy • Pet behaviour counselling, dog agility and training classes • Pet shop and grooming lounge.

CMY

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An independent veterinary practice with a personal approach A member of the Stowe Veterinary Group

01473 555 000 ipswichvetcentre.co.uk | enquiries@ipswichvetcentre.co.uk 1 Donald Mackintosh Way, Scrivener Drive, Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 3SU

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Ipswich High School The only Diamond Model school in Suffolk...

Find out more about the Diamond Model and visit our next Open Morning. Visit our website to learn more and book your place:

www.ihseducation.co.uk Colchester Zoo Advert.indd 1

13/10/2017 09:32:24