Colchester Zoo Summer 2018 Magazine

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Summer 2018

MAGAZINE

NEW

arrivals and developments!

go behind the scenes! read the latest news from Colchester Zoo’s Um Phafa Nature Reserve!

Get closer with Animal Experiences!

Registered Charity No. 1105621

Welcome!

Contents: pg 6 pg 7, 22, 25

Rajang’s 50th Birthday

pg 8

A Day in the Life of a keeper

Special occasions!

pg 9

& New arrivals s! development

pg 10, 11, 20 & 21

Animal Adoptions

Action for the Wild

pg 12

Kids’ Activities

Fun Facts

pg 15

pg 16 pg 17

Kids’ Experiences UmPhafa Reser ve Zoo Highlights

Fuel Your Adventure!

Summer Shopping

Corporate Opportunities Conservation at Home 2

LATES NEWS T !

Zoo events!

pg 13

Halloween Spook-tacular pg 14 Magic of Christmas

/ / / / / / / / / /

Animal Experiences

/ / / / /

Dates for your Diary

Zoo News

www.colchesterzoo.org

pg 5

/ / / / /

Zoo Passes

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

pg 18 pg 19

food & shopping

pg 24

pg 26 ed us A big thank you to those who have help ld like to produce this magazine! If you wou tact: to advertise in the next issue, please con marketing@colchesterzoo.org 01206 331 292 ext . 226 / 245 / 249

pg 28

pg 29 pg 30 © David Marsay

© Free the Bears

© Orangutan Foundation

COVER IMAGES © Robert Archer

© David Marsay

HELLO from all the staff and animals at A lot has happened at the zoo since our last magazine.

Inside this issue, is just a small insight into some of the recent news and events we have coming up. We have updates from the Zoo, but also, from our charity, Action for the Wild, including our UmPhafa Private Nature Reserve in South Africa.

We’ve welcomed some new residents to Colchester Zoo. with a number of species successfully breeding, resulting in adorable youngsters! Plus, we have had a few new arrivals, including Amur leopards, Crispin and Esra, and we’ve also welcomed back Otto, our male white rhino.

However, with happy news there always comes some sad news and unfortunately we had to say goodbye to our much-loved friend Flossy the white rhino who sadly passed away on Wednesday 11th July. Flossy will leave a big footprint on many keepers’ and visitors’ hearts.

Our catering team have been working hard and are pleased to announce that ALL of our products in our catering outlets are now RSPO sustainable palm oil certified or have the complete absence of palm oil.

The Veg Box has opened for summer and offers a number of healthy on-the-go options to eat whilst you explore the park.

We’ve also introduced our new summer activity, ‘Scientists in the Wild’, where the whole family can learn what work takes place in Africa to assist conservation.

Don’t forget!

Our gift and souvenir shops are free to visit so do pop in and see the range of unique gifts and products that we have to offer - we have something for everyone!

Work has begun on our new admissions building, which is hoped to open in early 2019! As we develop the main entrance we will also be making improvements to our gift shop. Within the park we are introducing some new toilet facilities for our visitors and are making plans to extend our pygmy hippo enclosure whilst continuing to develop the park, with both animals and visitors in mind.

ester Zoo We hope to welcome you along to Colch soon for an enjoyable visit!

Love from all at Happy reading!

Remember!

Not only is Colchester Zoo a great day out for all ages, but every visit you make helps us to care for the animals and support many conservation projects worldwide through our charity

Registered Charity No. 1105621

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

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Sainsbury’s Stanway Store Manager, Kevin Jones, talks about the stores part in the company’s value ‘Making a positive difference to our Community’.

Active Kids has been running for 13 years and with the support of our customers, Sainsbury’s has donated over £185m worth of equipment and experiences to over 40,000 schools and clubs throughout the UK and provided training for 9,000 teachers.

Making these colourful, fresh, fruity ice lollies is child’s play, but grown-ups are sure to want to eat one too!

the arrival of our brand new

Act ive Kids holiday club scheme!

There is an online booking platform and parents can sign up for a maximum of five days per child. Customers will need 200 Nectar card points to access the booking platform and will be issued with a voucher.

Ready in: 10 minutes, plus freezing Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 0 minutes es: Energy Makes 8 lollies 276kj / 66kcal / 3%

During the summer holidays, we will host 25 clubs for children aged 5 – 15 years. Clubs will run all day and give children the chance to try all sorts of activities in a safe environment; all for an affordable price for parents.

ingredients

The holiday club will run in 25 schools around the UK throughout the summer holiday. The nearest school to Stanway store is Clifford Road Primary School Ipswich. With all sorts of activities throughout the day, including sport, dance and arts and crafts, there’s something for everyone. The camps will be hosted by our partners Premier Education, who are fully trained and accredited.

method

During June customers have been voting in great numbers to help chose the store’s new charity of the year and with all the votes cast and counted both in store and online we are pleased to announce Autism Anglia as our 2018 / 2019 chosen charity.

Autism Anglia is a local charity providing a range of services for autistic people and their families. The store colleagues are delighted to be working with Autism Anglia over the forthcoming year, in raising awareness of the work the charity does within the local area and in supporting to raise funds with the support from our colleagues and through the generosity of our customers.

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

Of course we must say a big thank you from everyone in the store to all of our customers who have supported us over the last 12 months with last year’s charity, ‘The Robin Cancer Trust’. We are delighted to have raised over £14,000 towards this charity and the store colleagues have thoroughly enjoyed working with the charity across the year.

For more information about Sainsbury’s corporate values visit

You will also need ice lolly moulds!

1. In a blender, whizz all the ingredients together until completely combined and smooth.

2. Pour into lolly moulds and freeze for at least 4 hours or until completely frozen.

Customers choose new ‘Charity of the Year’

4

Fat 0.5g / <1% Saturates 0.1g / <1% Sugars 14.3g / 16% Salt 0.01g / <1% Carbohydrate 14.8g Fibre 1.3g Protein 0.9g

• 2 bananas, chopped • 400g strawberries, hulled and roughly chopped • 200ml pure squeezed orange juice • 2tbs clear honey

So why are we trying something different? Well, we want to concentrate on the areas where we can make the biggest difference, which is why we have decided to move on from the Active Kids voucher programme and trial Active Kids holiday clubs with the hope to roll out to more schools and organisations next year.

The charity will also be working with colleagues in the store to support their own understanding of Autism through internal training sessions.

Each lolly pro vid

This year we’re very excited to announce

Strawberry and banana ice lollies

Front-of-store Food Donation Partnership Stanway Sainsbury’s store is partnered with the local food bank team from Colchester, each week many customers support the food bank program by donating long life food at the collection points at the front of the store.

Through the generosity of our This year, customers we are able to our customers provide support within our have donated over community to those individuals 6 tonnes of food, or families who rely on the which has been food bank program. distributed within the local area.

www.sainsburys.co.uk

Save with a 25% friends & family entry discount!

(For 2 accompanying guests per visit.

Terms and conditions apply.)

ZOO

12 months unlimited entry!

(Except Christmas Day)

Exclusive Passholder events!

9th 10th

% Visit from as 9 8 little as ek p per we child’s Based on pass.

1 year

Buy 4 o r m o re &

SAVE 10%

Including 25% off for 2 accompanying guests to our Passholder event ‘Wake Up with Colchester Zoo’!

Discounts for shops, experiences & food!

Including 20% discount in Penguini’s Restaurant & Southern Kitchen when you spend over £10.00!

PLUS entry to other selected major zoo’s and discount at Colenzo’s Restaurant & Lounge in Southend and Chelmsford!

Optional regular E-letter updates and an online edition of the Colchester Zoo Magazine! © David Marsay

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

Purchase at the Zoo or www.colchesterzoo.org

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

5

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

Don’t miss our

exciting events for 2018!

Summer Holidays!

Rise and dine with our

21st July - 3rd September Join us on the terrace this Summer for Zooper events, with live music, Zoo Crew parties, games, balloon making and more!* Find out how the work of scientists can help to save African animals in the wild with interactive activities! *Activities vary daily

Starlight Safari Nights

Character breakfast

Open until 6:30pm

23rd September

9th September

15th & 29th September

Meet ‘n’ greet your favourite Colchester Zoo characters over a delicious breakfast!

Join in the half marathon run at Colchester Zoo, fund raising for

Visit www.colchesterstampede.com to enter and for more information.

O p en until 9:30pm

A magical twilight spectacular as we remain open late into the evening!

*Ts and Cs apply

20th - 28th October WRISTBAND REQUIRED* Spook-tacular daytime fun for the whole family during the Halloween half term!

Selected nights ONLY

20th, 22nd, 24th, 26th & 27th October Dare to stay after dark for some frightening fun!

See page 14 of this magazine for more information! *NB. No Halloween events take place on 31st October

24th & 25th November, 1st & 2nd, 8th & 9th and 15th - 24th December Immerse yourself in the wonderful atmosphere of our winter wonderland!

Exclusive christmas experiences!

LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE

Check out our website for more information about these pre-bookable events! ...Or see page 15 of this magazine.

Stay later on our

Christmas Starlight Nights! and enjoy the view of magical illuminations in the park!

24th November, 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd and 23rd December

These are just some of the events for 2018. Please see the full events calendar at www.colchesterzoo.org © Tom Smith

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MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

* NB. Colchester Zoo will charge a supplement 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 via www.colchesterzoo.org

Animal experiences Wild Encounters for Two

Package includes: • Exclusive access behind the scenes for 3½ hours.

• Close-up sessions with the animals!

• Experienced host.

• Complimentary entry for the whole day.

• Hot or cold drinks and light bites on arrival.

• Two-course, table service meal at Penguini’s restaurant in a private room.

• Choice of drink to accompany your meal.

• One year adoption of the animal of your choice.

• Adoption plaque at adopted species’ enclosure.

• Souvenir gift bags.

• Two complimentary entries for a return visit.

• Reserved parking.

at

If you wish, a third guest can be added at an additional cost.

You will embark on an exciting adventure as you are guided behind the scenes to meet some of the most amazing animals on the planet. With opportunities to meet, stroke or feed a whole range of species, including aardvarks, tigers, giraffes, penguins, lemurs and meerkats, this experience will give you magical memories to share forever.

* Terms and conditions apply.

Find out more...

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

The Extraordinary Experience Up to 6 more guests can be added at a reduced cost!

Exploring the very heart of Colchester Zoo, you will stop off to meet, stroke or feed a whole variety of amazing animals, including elephants, giraffes, tigers, sealions, meerkats, lemurs, penguins, monkeys, otters, aardvarks and more!

Be VIPs for the day with some of the finest and most intimate close-up animal experiences that a group can enjoy together!

Package is for up to 4 guests and includes: • Exclusive access behind the scenes for the day.

• Close-up sessions with an array of different animals!

• Experienced host for the whole day.

• Priority complimentary entry for the whole day.

• Hot or cold drinks and light breakfast on arrival.

• Two-course table service lunch at Penguini’s restaurant in a private room.

• Souvenir gift bags.

• Afternoon refreshments.

• Reserved parking.

Maximum group of 10 guests. No age restriction but under 18s must be accompanied by supervising adults over 18 yrs.

* Terms and conditions apply.

© Tom Smith

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

7

Happy 50 Birthday th

RAJANG!

Baby Rajang!

On the 14th June 2018 one of Colchester Zoo’s most popular and well known residents, Rajang the orangutan turned 50 years old!

Rajang was born on the 14th June 1968, arriving at Colchester Zoo in 1980!

rs and keepers, He loves to engage with visito fascination with including having a well-known s! baby bumps, scars and tattoo Colchester Zoo celebrated Rajang’s milestone with week-long birthday activities and treats from visitors and keepers.

We also auctioned a special piece of limited edition artwork, commissioned in commemoration of Rajang’s big 50th birthday, which raised £1,550.00 for Action for the Wild!

thank you for your kind donation!

You can purchase one of the limited-edition prints, by artist, Natalie Mascall, by visiting the Acacia gift shop here at Colchester Zoo.

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MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

© David Marsay

ABOVE: Winning bidders presenting their cheque to Action for the Wild.

A day in the life of the Primate Keepers!

Colchester Zoo’s primate keepers care for 50 primates, as well as fish, coral, 5 toads and Scooter, our Asian Pond turtle! alth by performing he Their day begins d als in their care an im an e th l al on checks special t, including some as kf ea br t ou ng vi gi r as a warm drink fo requirements, such kfast!

Rajang for his brea

T umba g et t i n g h a h e alt ! k chec

S c o ot e t h e A siar n pond t u rtle!

Then it’s a busy day of cleaning as our team make sure all of the animal enclosures are tidy and the windows are clean! Sometimes they even get a little help from Rajang the orangutan who loves to use his squeegee!

for the Keepers also make enrichment lic about our animals and give talks to the pub servation! chimps, orangutans and ape con Special occasions are also celebrated amongst the team, including Rajang’s 50th birthday celebrations in June!

All our keepers are dedicated to the well-being of our animals, and work hard to provide the best care possible.

© David Marsay © Scott Davey

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

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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!

s r u m e l g n u o y r u O have been named!

Introducing Calippo, Magnum, Solero, Twister and Cornetto!

Born in April & May, they have been named after ice lollies to go with the warm weather weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had!

Catch them exploring their home and playing with the rest of the troop from the Lost Madagascar Bridge.

Bush dog pups go exploring!

Our young pups continue to grow healthy and strong after being born in March!

Since then, they have been busy exploring their outside area with mum, Nina, and dad, Nico, and learning how to feed and swim!

Meet females, Ozara and Octavia, and male, Oakley!

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MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ ISSUE 13

Happy hatch day!

After welcoming a number of penguin chicks in April & May, the fluffy new arrivals began to fledge in July!

The youngsters will gradually spend more time out of the nests and soon be taking their first dip in the pool!

ZOO BAir BIES!

otter pups take the first swimming lesson!

Meet Ottis, the aardvark!

Our young aardvark was born on 23rd March and continues to grow strong and healthy.

Colchester Zoo is excited to announce the birth of four smooth-coated otter pups!

Keepers say he is quite greedy, as he enjoys tucking into his food!

The pups were born on 17th May and spent the first few weeks in their underground den, called a ‘holt’, until they are old enough to surface.

Ottis has now been introduced to the rest of the aardvark group, with whom he shares his home.

The pups have been spending more and more time above ground, since the end of June, and have even had their first swimming lessons, with assistance from the rest of the family!

They’ll soon be sexed and given their names.

Keep up to date and watch a video of the pups’ first swim via social media.

Visit Aardvark Burrow to see Ottis and the rest of the family of aardvarks!

DID YOU KNOW? The name ‘aardvark’ a’s comes from South Afric Afrikaans language and means ‘earth pig’ or ‘ground pig’.

@colchesterzoo

© David Marsay

© Carl Newell

© Debbie Pavier

© Scott Davey

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

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! l a im n a n a t p o ad

Do you have a favourite animal? Perhaps you share your name with one of our animals or 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? 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!

An adoption helps contribute to their care and assists our charity, Charity no. 1105621

Choose from our gift, premium or passholder adoption schemes.

See page 29 of this magazine for corporate opportunities.

01206 331292 / www.colchesterzoo.org / enquiries@colchesterzoo.org / visit Guest Services 12

MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ ISSUE 13

Š Robert Archer

What is Action for the Wild?

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

Charity No. 1105621

the Check out from latest newsprojects e some of thpport... we su

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.

Throughout 2018, bear rescues in Laos have continued and in early March they rescued bears 54 and 55.

THEN

Action for the Wild has donated over £16,000 in its membership of the lemur consortium, the AEECL, since 2004.

The AEECL aims to protect the habitat and ecosystems within the Sahamalaza National Park, Madagascar, to monitor and increase lemur populations and be a strong conservation ambassador for the area.

To achieve this, they invest in local communities through education and communication. They also participate in environmental events to help increase awareness of the project.

p?

How can you hel

Action for the Wild is supporting a new conservation project for the gelada baboon’s in Ethiopia.

Action for the Wild has pledged €1,000 per year and made its first donation in May 2018 to help improve the knowledge and ultimately conservation of this species in the wild.

The objective of this project is to increase the understanding of how human presence and activities impact on ecology and behaviour, along with increasing the scientific and technical knowledge of the species to be used for management purposes.

Since then the team have rescued four more bears; a sun bear in Cambodia and three moon bears in Laos.

They also took part in an emergency rescue of at least five moon bears from Xayaboury province.

Colchester Zoo’s Action for the Wild has donated £36,000 to Free the Bears since 2011, with our most recent donation of £5,000 in March 2018 going towards this essential construction of the quarantine house to ensure Free the Bears can continue accepting bears in need.

NOW

If you are interested in helping Action for the Wild’s projects, then

DONATE TODAY!

You can do this online or during your visit to Colchester Zoo.

Visit www.actionforthewild.org © AEECL

© Geladas

© Free the Bears

FIND OUT MORE ON pg19

Action for the Wild also runs its own wildlife reserve in South Africa, called UmPhafa, which aims to introduce and care for local flora and fauna.

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

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20th - 28th October Spook-tacular daytime fun for the whole family during the Halloween half term, including...

The Glow Show

Join us in this BRAND NEW event for 2018 , as we take you on a UV journey!

Tasty treats!

Photo trail competition!

Get crafty at the Witches’ Coven Don’t miss our themed stations of the

Themed animal encounters!

Kids’ Halloween walk-through

be r & 27th Octo th 6 2 , th 4 2nd, 2 LY - 20th, 2 N O ts h ig n Selected

OPEN UNTIL 9:30pm

Dare to stay after dark for frightening fun, including...

What Remains *

Delve into the archaeology of Colchester as we see what remains in this horrible history tour!

Captain Zoo Zoo’s Spentabuladocious Circus Get ready to be astounded and mostly dumbfounded at this captivating show with special guest stars ‘Illoomiloonies’!

A Fright at The Movies *

Grimm Fairy Tales *

Experience first-hand that not all fairy tales have happy endings... corridors of Are you brave enough to tour the dark

The Prison?! *

ming inmates Home to a ghostly array of unwelco and waiting to ring suffe of nity eter an to d sentence strobe effect s) and e smok feed off your fear. (May contain

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MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

Watch horror come to life as we take a train journey through the classics - this is a night at the movies you’ll never forget!

Magic Iain

Join this family favourite in his spook-tac

ular show!

* NB. Colchester Zoo will charge a supplement 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 via www.colchesterzoo.org

* WRISTBAND REQUIRED

24th & 25th November, 1st & 2nd, 8th & 9th and 15th - 24th December Immerse yourself in the wonderful atmosphere of our winter wonderland!

See Santa’s reindeer friends, help the elves in their workshop and get into the festive spirit!

Stay la ter as on ou r Christ m

and enjoy a number of magical illuminations!

24th November, 1st , 8th, 15th, 22nd and 23rd December

PLUS see our retelling of the pantomime ‘Snow White’ performed by our very own staff!

This year, Santa has two new friends to introduce to you, Papa Penguin and Baby Bleu!

Journey through the Santa Experience to meet Santa himself and receive your very own Papa Penguin and Baby Bleu soft toy!* * Supplement applies for entry to this secondary attraction. Whilst stocks last.

Exclusive Chris tmas experien Magical expe riences offeri ces! ng trea LIMITED SPAC

ES AVAILABL

NOT suitable fo

Rise and shine for

Breakfast with Santa!

This magical morning experience is perfect for all the family!

sured memor ies!

E MUST BE PR r under 1yr

E-BOOKED

Check out our website for more information about these pre-bookable events or contact our Experiences Reception to BOOK!

Join us for our

N EW !

Christmas Twilight Experience

as you enjoy an evening full of festive fun and take a magical journey on the Christmas Express Train!

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

15

Ki d s ’ Act i v i t i e s

Find the fru

it!

Help Rajang find his way through the maze to his favourite food...

Animal wordsearch!

Find the animals using the clues below...

...can you spot the other 8?

ts!

o Join the d

11

9

12

14

Match the missing squares to the gaps in the balloons to celebrate Rajang’s birthday!

6

8

13

15

7

10 1 5 2

16

64

4 63

3

17

62

55 54

18 19

27

20

28 29 36

30 26

21

23

44

24 32

38

35

25 22

58

59

45

34

1

2

3

4

46

33

42

40

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

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47

43

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16

57

60

53 37

52 31

61 56

48

50 49

5

Fix the balloons!

FUN F A C T S

ll bear, and a tail like A face like a cat, a body like a sma wn as a ‘bearcat’. kno a monkey, the binturong is also

The guineafowl puffer is a poor swimmer and can easily be caught by predators.

However, when threatened, this species has the incredible ability to swallow water and inflate itself to several times its normal size making it very difficult for a predator to swallow.

To humans, binturongs smell of buttered popcorn!

Like other members of the civet and genet family, the binturong has scent glands, just under its tail. As it moves about, the binturong drags its tail, leaving a scent which tells other binturongs the area is occupied and can also help male and female binturongs find each other when they want to mate.

Pigeons, like the Victoria crowned pigeon (right), together only with flamingos, have an unusual ability among birds to produce milk.

Termed ‘crop milk’, this curd-like material is secreted by special cells lining the crop of both sexes and forms the complete diet of nestlings during their first few days of life.

The milk is scooped up by the broad, soft bill of the young inserted deeply into the parent’s mouth. Gradually, the adult bird supplements this with partially digested food. The young grow rapidly and by four weeks they are a quar ter the size of the adults.

longer feels When a guineafowl puf fer no g its abdomen alon s scle threatened, it uses mu its mouth. of out k bac er to push the wat

Even if successfully eaten (before it can inflate), this species can be poisonous to predators, as it stores toxins created by bacteria that live inside its body. Therefore, this species is rarely eaten.

While the rock hyrax looks like a slightly more robust version of a guinea pig, it’s no rodent!

Rock hyrax are related to elephants and manatees.

During the Eocene era (56 to 33.9 million years ago), hyraxes of all sizes filled the plains of Africa; from a mouse-sized species to one the size of a small horse.

Some of these ancestors evolved into the hyraxes we know today, whereas others appear to have given rise to the elephant and manatee and dugong families.

© Danny Gentry

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

17

!

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

Be a PARTY ANIMAL for outstanding value for money!

We offer a selection of packages for a range of ages, available for up to 10 children (15 children for Jungle Tumble Play Party)*

Tedd y Be ar s’ Pic nic - 3+ Party with Puddles - 5+

Animal Antic s Party - 8+

Nature Detective Squad - 8+ Jungle Tumble Play Pa rty - All ages Find out more 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: • 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 Terms and conditions apply.

Find out more...

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

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MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

Terms and conditions apply.

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

Zoo Cadet Age 10 - 15 yrs Morning experience 10:00 - 12:00

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

u m p h a fa

private natur e res erve S INTERNSHIP

HS)

(1 - 3 MONT

Looking to gain hands-on conservation experience Our internship programme offers anyone interested can wildlife and conservation Afri in ce to gain skills that help chan the ation of a game reserve, oper the in t time bush drives, nigh ding inclu studies and flora ral viou beha and fauna survey work.

UmPhafa Bush Camp!

UmPhafa Reserve now has an amazing new Bush Camp! After 4 months of anticipation they have been busy building the camp, they have used recycled stone, wood, windows and thatching grass harvested from the reserve, our Maintenance Manager, Mark, and his team have created something very special!

rns, It was christened by our inte nks dri who enjoyed their sunset r ove w vie ng looking at the stunni , rse cou of en, Th .

Leopard Gorge rs sta the er und ai Bra the Big before a cosy sleepover!

PLACEMENT

S (2 WEEKS)

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

Whether you are a re cent graduate, in employm ent or retired, this is a fantastic oppo rtunity for those who are keen to lend a hand to nature and ex plore a beautiful part of the world outside our usual busy season.

Check the website for our

2 week placements.

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

NEWS !

Writtle College

Animal Welfare and Conservation Masters student Zoe Braybrook will be heading to South Africa over the summer for an internship at UmPhafa Private Nature Reserve.

The internship is for four weeks at the 6,000 hectare reserve in KwaZulu Natal and will give Zoe, from Sudbury, Suffolk, a unique insight into wildlife research and species conservation.

Zoe who is excited about her placement said: “This is a dream placement for an Animal Conservation and Welfare student and I am absolutely buzzing for this experience!

They offer interns the opportunity to work with experienced staff and their ongoing projects as well as the practical tasks around the reserve”.

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

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A sad passing Over the past year, Flossy, one of our white rhino, had been receiving treatment for a skin condition, which appeared as weeping growths.

Unfortunately, we noticed a deterioration in her health at the end of June and, after a number of consultations with our veterinary team, and with Flossy’s welfare and quality of life ahead in mind, we had to take the very difficult decision to euthanise Flossy on Wednesday 11th July.

Flossy had a very loving nature and will leave a big footprint on the hearts of her keepers along with those that have known and grown close to her over the years, she will always have a special place here at Colchester Zoo.

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

On 25th June Colchester Zoo was delighted to welcome back an old friend!

Male rhino, Otto, returned to us having been away for over a year at another park following a breeding recommendation.

Colchester Zoo was Flossy’s home for 46 years, after arriving at the park in April 1972. When she arrived we were not given her exact birth date, but it was estimated to be around 1969, making Flossy one of the oldest white rhino in Europe.

We will create a memorial area for Flossy, so that her memory lives on for generations to come.

The new pathway includes a newly-built home for our recently introduced agamid lizard and spiny turtles.

20

THE RETURN OF OTTO!

Billy-Joe’s Path

It is hoped that his return will see Otto and Astrid become a successful breeding pair in the near future.

We are pleased to announce our new board-walk in memory of our late chimpanzee, Billy-Joe, who we sadly lost in March 2018, is now open.

At over 40yrs old, Billy-Joe was one of the longest-standing residents at Colchester Zoo and will always remain at the heart of the zoo.

The board-walk is one of the final areas to be completed as part of ‘Chimpanzee Lookout’. © Robert Archer © David Marsay © Barbara Meyer

Will it be love for our leopards?

Across April and May we were delighted to welcome a new female Amur leopard, called Esra, and a new male Amur leopard, named Crispin.

They are both settling into their new surroundings and can now be seen exploring their new outdoor area.

In April we welcomed three young female Eurasian grey wolves.

DID YOU KNOW? A pack of wolves can catch prey up to 10 times the size of one wolf!

esra

crispin

Call of the Wild!

The trio have been busy exploring their new home which can also be seen from our Lost Madagascar Express Road Train. Now they have settled in they have also been spending some time getting to know our male, Kera, who they share their home with.

Once the pair have settled in, we are hoping that they will become a breeding pair in the near future.

Back in January, we saw our pygmy hippopotamus, Venus, give birth to a female calf that keepers have named Juno!

Juno is doing extremely well and we are getting to see an insight into her personality! Keepers have found her to be a very independent young hippo! See if you can spot her in the Kingdom of the Wild building.

Juno also We are looking to expand the pygmy hipposâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; home in the near future... watch this space!

Pygmy hippo calf named!

loves the pool and will happily spend most of her time in the water.

Animal experiences Perfect Partners

at

Keeper for the Day

Keeper Shadowing

Step into the boots of a zoo keeper for an amazing day that will take you closer to the animals than ever before!

Keeper Shadowing offers the chance to enjoy a close-up and personal, amazing experience with your favourite animal.

Three amazing hands on experiences to choose from!

Package includes:

• Close-up 30 minute experience with your chosen animal and their keeper.

• Complimentary entry for the whole day.

• Meal voucher.

• Souvenir bag. * Terms and conditions apply.

PLUS

discount for a second person to take part with you!

Whatever the occasion, this shared, close-up animal experience followed by a delicious table service meal for two with your perfect partner at Colchester Zoo will give you memories to treasure forever!

© David Marsay © Tom Smith

Package includes:

Package includes: • A 30 minute close-up experience for two with your chosen species.

• Table service, two-course meal at Penguini’s with your choice of drink to accompany your meal.

• Souvenir photograph of yourselves taking part in the experience.

• Souvenir bag.

• Complimentary entry for the whole day.

• Time spent behind the scenes (3hrs 45mins) with the animals and their keepers.

• A voucher for your 1 hour lunch at Penguini’s restaurant.

• A souvenir bag to remember your special day.

• Complimentary entry for the whole day. * Terms and conditions apply.

2 for 1 on Keeper for the Day! Book a Enjoy the experience of being date to enjo a Keeper for the Day with is m emorab y le Pleaseand pick up aandcopy ofthex the perience your nearest dearest

and th e seco magazine for the full details SAVE £210.00! participant nd Offer ends 30th September. Experience must be booked of this offer! goes FREE! to take place prior to 30th November 2018. Offer not valid online.

Bookings are subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply, check website for details.

* Terms and conditions apply.

22

To redeem this offer simply call our Experiences Reception on 01206 331292 ext. 232 or 237 or email the team at experiences@colchesterzoo.org and quote: 241KEEPER18

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

Experiences are subject to availability, don’t miss out on this fantastic saving – book today!

Find out more...

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

SCHOOL

No more Saturday school but lots of forest school!

Holmwood House Prep School OPEN MORNING: Friday 5 October 2018 Chitts Hill . Lexden . Colchester . Essex . CO3 9ST

01206 574305 www.holmwood.house

9.30am -11.30am

Co-educational Preparatory School for boys and girls aged 4 -13 MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;¢ ISSUE 13

23

2017 PORT RE L A U N AN hlights Hig

Colchester Zoo’s Annual Running Costs in 2017

It costs around £30,000 per day to run Colchester Zoo. Every visit you make helps us continue the vital work required to assist conservation and develop the Zoo.

Thank you for your support!

Enclosure Development & Maintenance, £1,125,420 Grounds and Gardens Animal Feed, Vets and Movements

£390,963

Rates - Water, Fuel, Electricity

£1,033,609

Staff Wages 350+

£5,705,060

VAT

£2,183,674

Insurance

£145,574

For the full Annual Report visit www.colchesterzoo.org

Sustainability

Colchester Zoo has replaced its smaller oil tanks for more sustainable and efficient biomass burners.

In 2017, we received

£68,309.62 in payment for using these renewable heat incentives.

Colchester Zoo also has solar panelling on its giant tortoise and sun bear enclosures.

In 2017, we received

£1,395.96 in payment for producing our own energy.

The Zoo and the Local Economy The total annual impact on the local and regional economies by Colchester Zoo is approximately*:

£48,000,000 As a large organisation, Colchester Zoo has a significant impact on the local and regional economy. Colchester Zoo’s visitors, contractors and staff all impact the economy through employment and expenditure, including retail, catering, accommodation, visiting other local attractions, and transport. * Based on a 2016 environmental impact survey.

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MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

Total full-time jobs created locally and regionally are around*:

760

Hen Parties

at

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

fling

nds This hen party for the bride and her frie mal includes fun activities and hands-on ani encounters to remember forever!

With inspiration from our saucy sealions, penguins, loving lemurs and gentl passionate e giraffes, we explore LOV E in the animal kingdom!

Release your

WILD SIigDdEayS! before the b

Find out more...

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

Check out or BRAND NEW vegetarian and vegan-friendly outlet...

Rice and noodle boxes

Salads

C he c k ou r l out of f e r s a t e s t as veg , as well vegan etarian, a nd f re e m g lut e n e O N LI n u s NE !

Burritos and wraps

Smoothies . . . and more

Do you have a Zoo Pass?

You can

SAVE

20%*

When you spend over £10 in one transaction * Offer not valid on sweets or in conjunction with any other offer. Valid only on presentation of a valid Zoo Pass.

SUMMER SPECIALS Enjoy an ‘al fresco’ taste of Italy with pizza, pasta and more on the terrace.

Ice cream stacks, fruit and brownie kebabs, fruit scones and more at

26

Cool down in the heat with an ice cream-topped Calippo Slush from the

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

in

or

THE SOUT HERN KITCHEN

ORANGUTAN FRIENDLY!

Colchester Zoo is committed to all of our food and ice cream products across Catering and Retail being either free of palm oil or RSPO approved, meaning it is sustainably sourced.

Every product has been verified and certification requested.

We will continue to raise awareness of the importance of being palm oil conscious.

FILL A TRUNK!

Champagne Gourmet Dinner 20th September

Degustation Evening 25th October

WITH UP TO 60% OFF GREAT BRANDS EVERY DAY

Beaujolais Nouveau Day 15th November

The Great House Festive menu

PROUDLY LINKED WITH

21st November – 21st December

Thierry and Guillaume hope to welcome you soon.

For more information on the above events at The Great House and how you can book, please visit www.greathouse.co.uk or contact us on 01787 247431

A F Please R E pick E upSa copy T Aof RtheT E R magazine for the full details of this offer!

OR DESSERT at

when you buy a main dish from our main menu on presentation of this voucher.

C O N T A C T

U S

T O

B O O K

01702 593059 (Southend) / 01245 377130 (Chelmsford) www.colenzos.co.uk Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Valid until 30th September. Futher Ts and Cs apply, ask your server for details.

freeport-braintree.com

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

27

Su mme r Sh opp i n g AT COLCHESTER ZOO!

FREE

parking and entry to shops!

Bold, colourful cushions to brighten your home.

(during Zoo opening hours)

Summer is the season for bright colours, bold prints and fruity scents!

Check out our Ark and Acacia gift shops for some great gift ideas or treats for yourself to get into the festival mood!

Beautiful wooden

sculptures and ornaments to

update your decor.

Fill your home with the scent of summer with our range of candles, wax melts and diffusers!

We have a variety of gift vouchers for experiences, passes or monetary vouchers to give that special someone an unforgettable day out!

The Acacia Gift shop will close at the beginning of September 2018 while exciting developments take place!

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MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

shop online!

Check out the website and click on the ‘shop’ button.

www.colchesterzoo.org

S E I IT N U T R O P P O E T A R CORPO r Zoo Colcheste s own for it acts is well kn t tr a work and world. n o ti a v r e cons e r th e om all ov visitors fr ion brand

ervat rful cons associated with e w o p a It is ion to be ompany its own recognit c r u o y r se fo oals. to increa in order d fulfil its CSR g n a nnually rs a lion visito sholders, il m 1 r e With ov nual Pas 0,000 an fers huge 6 r e v o d an r Zoo of Colcheste opportunities g marketin to. to tap in

Reach new markets by sponsoring a location at

We offer a number of corporate opportunities, including: Company VIP away days Corporate Sponsorship

Team Building

Advertising space in the Colchester Zoo Magazine

Corporate Adoptions Trade Ticket Accounts

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.

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

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

Full day package includes

complimentary entry for the whole day, breakfast, lunch, morning and afternoon activities,as well as private encounters with our penguins, giraffes and elephants! * * Half-day packages also available. Terms and conditions apply.

Find out more...

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

© Tom Smith

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

29

Help wildlife this summer.

As the weather gets hotter, birds and mammals can suffer in the heat, as food and water can be in short supply!

Follow these great tips and do your bit to help them out during the hotter months.

Conservation at Home GIVE ANIMALS A DRINK

If you have the space, a bird bath is ideal for keeping the birds hydrated. However, if you’re short of space, add a stone in the middle of a plant saucer with a textured finish so birds can grip to the edge, whilst taking a sip.

Pretty plants for pollinators Bees and butterflies love colours, textures, shapes and heights.

To attract them in your garden look at planting sunflowers, poppies and foxgloves.

Also look out for climbers, such as honeysuckle and jasmine they both smell great too!

FEED your feathered friends Bird feeders are a great way to keep the birds fed! Visit our Acacia Shop for some lovely feeders to brighten your garden this summer.

Leaving out a saucer on the ground is great for hedgehogs who also need a drink when they’re roaming about at night!

rde Check out these six top tips for summer ga 1. Water in the cool of the day. The best time is morning but, if you water in the late afternoon/evening watch out for the mosquitos.

2. Keep your mower blade on its higher setting so grass stems can provide shade for the soil.

3. Invest in a water butt to create a reservoir for your garden from any thunder storms that come your way. Rain water is much better for your plants than tap water - and cheaper, too.

4. Many pesky weeds love summer heat and quickly take the jump from tiny to gigantic.

It’s important to pull them from your garden, because weeds steal moisture and nutrients from your plants. Many weeds also encourage insect pests and diseases to pop up in your garden.

5. The warmer months are the best time to plant your vegetables, such as beans, celery, corn, peppers, squash and courgette.

6. Take a break to admire all your hard work and read a good gardening book!

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ning:

Waldegraves Holiday Park The place to stay in Essex

Discounted tickets available with your booking!

short breaks from

£139 per holiday Home*

JOIN US FOR FUN AND LEARNING SESSIONS DURING THE SCHOOL HOLIDAY FOR 4-10 YEAR OLDS Call now for your free brochure 01206 382898 pick up a copy of the or visitPlease www.waldegraves.co.uk

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

magazine for the full details of this offer!

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 School & Bank Holidays. T’s & C’s apply.

London Road and Tiptree Veterinary Centres Your pet’s health at heart

Passionate vets and nurses that treat every patient as if they were their own.

Tiptree Veterinary Centre

London Road Vets, Colchester

www.tiptreevets.co.uk

www.londonroadvets.uk

01621 818282

01206 544918

Out of Hours Emergency Service: 07754 676560 MAGAZINE • ISSUE 13

31

Ra t 201 ed ‘E 4 a xce nd llen 201 t’ i 7 I n al SI Ins l area pec s in tio ns

Littlegarth School is a happy, friendly and forward thinking, co-educational independent school and nursery, where children between the ages of 2½ and 11 years thrive as they begin their exciting journey of discovery.

Open Day Friday 5th October 10:00am - 12:00 noon You are welcome to visit at anytime or with a prior appointment

Littlegarth School, Horkesley Park, Nayland, Colchester, Essex, CO6 4JR Telephone: 01206 262332 Email: office@littlegarth.essex.sch.uk www.littlegarth.essex.sch.uk