Colchester Zoo Autumn/Winter Magazine 2018

Autumn/Winter 2018

F R EE MAGAZIN

E

Includ fun fa ing c conse ts and rvatio n at ho me!

Plus m uch more !

What does a carnivore keeper do?

Updates from the herd!

Registered Charity No. 1105621

Say hello to new animals at the zoo.

Welcome!

Zoo Passes

pg 5 pg 6

Dates for your Diary Animal Experiences

pg 7, 22

Action for the Wild

pg 8

Zoo News

pg 10 pg 12

Animal Adoptions Carnivore Team

pg 13

The Magic of Christmas Kids Activities

pg 16

Fun Facts

pg 17

Kids’ Experiences

UmPhafa

pg 18 pg 19

Zoo News

pg 20

Hen Parties

pg 25

Fuel Your Adventure!

Festive Shopping

Corporate Opportunities Conservation at Home 2

pg 14

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 14

pg 26 pg 28

pg 29 pg 30

e helped us to produce We would like to thank all those who hav publication would this magazine, without your support this e on board and not be possible. If you would like to com something you would advertise in the next issue or if there is you. Please get like to see featured we’d love to hear from colchesterzoo.org. in touch with the team at marketing@ © Tom Smith

COVER IMAGE: © Gary Nunn

HELLO from all the staff and animals at Colchester Zoo! This magazine gives you a glimpse into news from the zoo, conservation tips and dates for your diary! We also have some great gift ideas for Christmas, which are sure to stand out from the rest! You can also read updates from our charity, Action for the Wild, and find out how your visits have helped conservation projects worldwide, including our UmPhafa Private Nature Reserve in South Africa.

Colchester Zoo is continuously developing, with the extension to our Lion Rock enclosure near completion and the opening of a new, wheelchair accessible, play area in winter 2018. It is hoped that our new admissions building will be open in early 2019 and we’ve begun redeveloping our gift shops too!

Since the last issue we have welcomed some adorable new-borns, including a greater kudu calf and a red panda cub! Our penguin fledglings are now expert swimmers and we’ve welcomed a pair of crowned lemurs for the first time at Colchester Zoo.

Remi Brown play area

Our ever-popular Christmas events are back for 2018, including our staff panto, Elves’ Workshop and, NEW for 2018, a magical fairy garden where you can take away your own fairy powers!

We also have new additions to our animal light sculpture trail for our Christmas Starlight Nights, which are sure to get you into the festive spirit!

P

en g aP ap

uin and Baby B leu

Each child visiting the Santa Experience this year will receive their very own miniature Papa Penguin & Baby Bleu soft toy from Santa himself!* Children will also be able to enjoy our ‘Christmas Tale’ to find out the magical story of how Santa helped return the Christmas spirit to Papa Penguin, Baby Bleu and their colony in the sub-Antarctic.

We hope to welcome you along to Colchester Zoo soon for an enjoyable visit but in the meantime, happy reading!

Love from all at

*Subject to availability, supplement charge for secondary attraction which is not included in admission, terms and conditions apply.

Whilst stocks last.

Ps. A motivational quote for you – Be a flamingo in a flock of pigeons!

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 14

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Sainsbury’s Stanway Store Manager, Kevin Jones, talks about the part the store plays in Sainsbury’s value ‘Respect for our Environment’

TOFFEE APPLE CRUMBLE CHEESECAKE A creamy cheesecake, topped with toffee apples and a sprinkle of crisp apple crumble – this is the ultimate autumnal apple recipe!

Sainsbury’s wants to be the most trusted retailer, where people love to work and shop. Since we opened our first shop, on Drury Lane in 1869, we’ve always had a strong sense of our social, environmental and economic responsibilities, and we are aware of the importance of working with the communities we serve.

Ready in: 1 hour 20 minutes, plus chilling Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 50 minutes Serves 16

ov

ingredients

s: ide

Energy

1612kj / 385kcal / 19% For the crumble Fat 28.3g / 40% • 25g flour Saturates 18.0g / 90% • 25g brown sugar Sugars 23.0g / 26% Salt 0.31g / 5% • 15g butter Carbohydrate 28.7g For the toffee sauce Fibre 0.5g • 100g caster sugar Protein 2.9g • 100ml double cream For the caramelised apples • 25g butter In Stanway we have two food donation partners; • 1 tbsp sugar the Colchester Night Shelter and, of course, • 2 Bramley apples, cored & sliced Colchester Zoo. There are strict food safety regulations that tell us what can and can’t be donated, which means that all of our donations are safe 1. Line the base of a 20cm cake tin with greaseproof paper.

Blitz the ginger snaps until they resemble fine breadcrumbs. to eat, for both our human and animal recipients!

Each serving pr

For the base • 200g ginger snaps • 100g butter For the filling • 4 leaves gelatine • 250ml double cream • 360g cream cheese • 150g mascarpone • 100g icing sugar • 1tsp vanilla bean paste

method

Melt the butter and add the crumbs. Place in the cake tin and press with the back of a spoon. Chill in a fridge.

2. Soak the gelatine leaves for 2-3 minutes. Heat the cream to boiling point, then remove from heat. Squeeze the water from the gelatine, add the cream and set aside to cool.

3. Put the cream cheese, mascarpone, icing sugar and vanilla bean paste in a food processor, add the cooled cream and process until smooth. Leave to chill for four hours or overnight!

4. Preheat the oven 200°C/fan 180°C/gas mark 6. Mix the flour and sugar together, add the butter and rub the flour and sugar together until they resemble breadcrumbs. Spread over a lined baking sheet and bake in oven for 12-15 minutes. Leave to cool.

5. Pour the sugar into a saucepan with 50ml water.

Heat and bring to the boil until the sugar has dissolved and leave to simmer. Add the cream and reduce heat. Cook for a further 2-3 minutes and leave to cool.

6. Place the sugar and butter in a pan and heat until foamy.

Add the apples and cook for 6-8 minutes. Leave to cool.

7. When the cheesecake is set, remove the tin and pour the caramel over the top. Decorate with apples and crumble.

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There will always be some food that is no longer fit for human consumption and this forms part of our ‘no food waste to landfill’ initiative. We are required to put waste into different coloured bags – red for raw meat, fish and eggs, yellow for bread, for example – and this is sent back to our depots for its onward journey to recycling or safe disposal.

On that note, the very fact that we send waste, empty pallet boards and equipment back on our depot delivery lorries, means that we do not have empty vehicles on the road contributing to global warming.

For more information about Sainsbury’s corporate values visit

www.sainsburys.co.uk

© Robert Archer

Save with a

Purchase your zoo pass for unlimited entry for 1 year today! ( (Except Christmas Day)

Buy 4 o r m o re &

SAVE 10%

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

1 year

25% friends and family discount for up to 2 accompanying guests per visit. (T&Cs apply) Entry to our annual special events* .

(Please note this does not include pre bookable events, secondary attractions at special events may be charged for.)

10% discount in our gift shops ( (On selected items)

Entrance to selected major zoos free of charge*

Child passholders qualify for a reduced rate when they have their birthday party at Colchester Zoo.

10% discount in all catering outlets

Money off animal experiences for passholders

10% off in Colenzo’s Restaurant and Lounge Chelmsford)

20% discount in Penguini’s Restaurant and Southern Kitchen when you spend over £10!

(Excluding sweets)

* 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 14

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

Don’t miss our

exciting events for 2018/19!

WRISTBAND REQUIRED*

20th - 28th October

Spook-tacular

Selected nights ONLY

daytime fun for the whole family during the Halloween half term!

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

*NB. No Halloween events take place on 31st October

24th & 25th November, 1st & 2nd, 8th & 9th and 15th - 24th December 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!*

Immerse yourself in the wonderful atmosphere of our winter wonderland!

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

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

HALF TERM

Stay later on our

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

Exclusive christmas experiences!

LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE

Check out our website for more information about these pre-bookable events! ...Or see page 14 of this magazine.

VALENTINE'S DAY

18th - 22nd February 2019

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

14th February 2019

Visit Colchester Zoo during February half term!

Share the love during Valentine’s weekend!

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.

Looking for something to do that’s a bit different for Valentines Day? Stop by some of our daily encounters as our keepers tell you all about our animals.

For more information on our events or to see the full events calendar, please visit www.colchesterzoo.org © Tom Smith

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* 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. Whilst stocks last.

Please ensure you are familiar with the updated terms and conditions via www.colchesterzoo.org

Animal experiences

at

Wild Encounters for Two

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 a whole range of species, including aardvarks, tigers, giraffes, penguins, lemurs and meerkats, this experience will give you magical memories to share forever.

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

• Close-up sessions with the animals!

• Experienced host.

• Complimentary entry for the whole day.

• Light breakfast on arrival.

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

• One year adoption of the animal of your choice.

• Adoption plaque at adopted species’ enclosure.

• Souvenir gift bags.

If you • Two complimentary entries for a return visit. wish, a third • Reserved parking. guest can be * Terms and conditions apply.

Find out more...

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

added at an additional cost.

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 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 four 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.

• 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 14

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What is Action for the Wild?

Charity No. 1105621

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

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.

Charity Football Match On Thursday 13th September two teams of dedicated Colchester Zoo keepers and staff went head to head in a football match to raise money for Colchester Zoo’s charity, Action for the Wild.

The Colchester community came together on the evening and raised over £800.

Supporting the Rhino Rangers In the last decade, more than 1,000 rangers have been killed worldwide when protecting wildlife. Field rangers work extremely hard under very testing circumstances.

The money raised will be going to the Elephant Or phanage Project (EOP) who we have donat ed over £47,500 to, to dat e.

The Elephant Orphanage Project (EOP) is a projec t of Game Rangers International (G RI), with the mission to res cue, rehabilitate and release orp haned elephants back int o the wild.

In April 2018, Action for the Wild donated £6,678 to Save the Rhino, which will be used for tactical training for the anti-poaching unit rangers at Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park. orter of Save the s been an active supp Action for the Wild ha olozi Park since team at Hluhluwe-iMf Rhino and the ranger Such funding is vital over £85,000 to date.

2006, having donated in protecting carrying out their role for field rangers, whilst rhino populations.

How can you help?

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

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DONATE TODAY

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 14 © David Marsay © Scott Davey

online at www.actionforthe

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Action for the Wild also runs its own wildlife reserve in South Africa known as UmPhafa, which releases, protects and monitors local flora and fauna.

1. Punta San Juan Penguin Project – Peru 2. The Centre de Rehabilitation des Primates de Lwiro, Primate Project – Democratic Republic of Congo 3. Elephant Orphanage Project – Zambia 4. Na’an Ku Se Carnivore Conservation Programme - Namibia 5. Save the Rhinos International – South Africa 6. UmPhafa – South Africa 7. AEECL Lemur Project – Madagascar

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8. VulPro Vulture Project – South Africa 9. Gelada Project - Ethiopia 10. Hornbill Research Foundation – Thailand 11. Wae Wuul Komodos – Flores, Indonesia 12. Orangutan Foundation – Borneo 13. Free the Bears – Laos 14. Red Panda Forest Guardian Scheme – Nepal 15. Wildlife Vets International – global 16. Fisher’s Estuarine Moth Breeding Programme – UK

3 Peaks Challenge On the 19th September some team members of Colchester Zoo took part in the 3 Peaks Challenge that involves climbing the highest mountain in Scotland, then England and finally Wales.They have raised over £1,200 for two amazing charities.

The first of the charities is the Red Panda Network; a charity dedicated to the conservation of red pandas in the wild.This charity plays a vital role in protecting the remaining forests in the red panda’s natural habitat in Nepal.

The other charity is the Komodo Survival Programme.This charity manages the Wae Wuul Nature Reserve on the island of Flores in Indonesia.

The project is committed to community awareness, patrolling and law enforcement in order to protect the Komodo dragons.

ewild.org or during your visit to Colchester Zoo. You can also download our fundraising pack online.

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 14

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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!

! n r o b s i f l a c u d u k A We are excited to announce that our female greater kudu, Nakia, gave birth on the 29th August to a healthy calf! Nakia hasn’t been at Colchester Zoo for very long so she was pregnant before she arrived with us.

The new calf is a first for Nakia, who is being very attentive.

Our young calf has been busy exploring his outdoor home with mum and has now met the other species they share their home with!

Two lemurs leaping

Here come the girls!

Our four smooth-coated otter pups are continuing to grow and are becoming more confident within our otter family.

They enjoy spending their time in the water and playing with their other family members.

We confirmed back in July that our otter pups were all female and their keepers have now named them! Introducing Maly, Sophea, Tevy and Srey!

It’s a boy!

We are extremely excited to announce that we have a pair of crowned lemurs for the very first time here at Colchester Zoo! Our female, Triskie, arrived on the 23rd July, quickly followed by our male, Ala, who arrived on 26th July.

On 10th July, we announced that our female Kirk’s dik dik, Daenerys, gave birth to a single calf! We can now confirm that our young calf is male and his keepers have since named him Davos.

Since their arrival, the pair have been settling into their environment and getting to know each other, and their keepers.

The new calf, and his parents can be seen at Edge of Africa along with our crowned cranes who they share their home with.

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Reindeer return to Colchester Zoo! It’s that time of year when we welcome back Santa’s reindeer to Colchester Zoo! This year we are welcoming back Ronnie and Sami along with two new reindeer friends, Ash and Hickory! All four of the reindeer have been settling in well and getting to know each other ahead of our Magic of Christmas events!

Visitors will be able to meet our beautiful reindeer on our Magic of Christmas event days!

! m i w s o t g n i n r a Le

Blue duiker baby On the 16th June we saw the birth of a blue duiker calf to mum, Jasmine, who has been very attentive to the new calf over the last few months, with the calf growing healthy and strong.

We can now confirm that our calf is female and her keepers have called her Penelope.

Our five penguin fledglings have all left their nest boxes and are enjoying spending time with the rest of the group!

They have also been spending a lot of time in the pool, learning to swim, as they lose their juvenile feathers.

We sent off their DNA to find out their sexes and we have since received the results and can confirm that our fledglings are all male!

Keepers have since named them and we can now introduce you to: Boulder - his parents are Bruce and Pebbles.

Scar & Dodger - two new arrivals hatched to Slammer and Oreo.

Geo & Zeppelin - from dad, Sid, and mum, Dotty!

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 14

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! l a m i n a n a t p a do 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...

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

PLUS more benefits!

See page 29 of this magazine for corporate opportunities.

Š David Cundy

Charity no. 1105621

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

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A day in the life of the

This team care for some of the largest animals at the zoo, including our three African lions, our two Amur leopards and two Malaysian sun bears, plus some of our smaller animals, such as the red pandas, binturongs and Asian short-clawed otters!

The team’s day begins by checking all the animals in their section and waking them up with a tasty breakfast and any medication they require.

Most recently this has also included checking on our young female red panda cub!

Whilst the animals tuck into their food, the keepers move on to cleaning the animal enclosures!

You can see our sun bears at the Bears of the Rising Sun.

Throughout the day they also take part in some training activities with the animals to help with health checks, such as checking the animal’s mouths and teeth.

Training our sun bears.

Other daily activities include creating enrichment for the animals to keep them stimulated and challenged, as well as preparing food for the next day.

You can see our Amur leopards at Ussuri Falls.

Our keepers also give daily talks to our visitors letting them know all about the amazing animals they care for and how our charity, Action for the Wild, supports them in the wild.

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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!

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

Exclusive Chris tmas experien Magical exper iences offerin ces! g trea LIMITED SPAC

ES AVAILABL

NOT suitable fo

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!*

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sured memori

E MUST BE PR r under 1yr

es!

E-BOOKED

Rise and shine for

Breakfast with Santa!

This magical morning experience is perfect for all the family!*

* Supplement applies for entry to this secondary attraction.

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!** ** Whilst stocks last.

ur Christmas o n o r te la y ta S

magical illuminations! and enjoy a number of December h, 15th, 22nd and 23rd 8t t, 1s er, mb ve No th 24

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

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 14

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Ki d s ’ Act i v i t i e s Quiz time

Get creative!

Colour in Ronnie the reindeer.

A. What do most penguins make their nest from?

Twigs

Snow

Small stones

Seaweed

B. When Santa laughs, his belly shakes like a bowl full of...?

Jelly

Coal

Cookies

Elves

C. How many reindeer pull Santa’s sleigh?

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Word safari...

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MAGAZINE • ISSUE 14

Find all the winter words below in our word search game.

SNOWFLAKE REINDEER SNOW CHRISTMAS ROBIN SCARF BOOTS COLD

Quiz answers: a. small stones b. jelly c. 8

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Can you solve this anagram? charismst

Anagram answer: christmas

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S

FUN F A C T S

Okapis (oh – KA – pee) are the closest living relative of the giraffe. This beautiful African rainforest species is found in just one region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

During courtship, male king penguins use their best skills to attract female attention.This ritual is a tremendous effort that can take from hours to a few days.The sign that indicates that both are ready to mate is when they both shake their heads at the same time.They do not build nests. Instead, the female lays a single egg, which transfers to the father for protection and for keeping warm in his leather pouch, a featherless space located above his legs.

Chicks make sounds that are identified and answered by their parents. In the same way, couples find each other within the crowded and noisy colonies recognising the frequency of their vocalisations.The adults look so different from their own chicks, that they were once thought to be a different species!

Mermaid, Sea cow or Manatee?

Manatees (sometimes known as sea cows) are marine mammals of the order Sirenia- the same group as elephants. They are gentle herbivores who are found in the Amazon, West India and West Africa.

They are often thought to be the origin of sailor’s tales about mermaids. However, despite their enormous size, manatees only have a tiny layer of fat- the rest of their body is made up of an enormous 45 metre long intestine that helps them to digest the three bathtubs-worth of kelp they need to eat each day!

The stripy bottoms and long necks often lead people to assume that this is a cross between a zebra and a giraffe, but this animal is a species in its own right.

Bottoms up!

The famous stripy bottoms allow okapis to camouflage in the partial sunlight that streaks down from the forest canopy and also act as something that calves can use to follow mum through the thick vegetation.

Disappearing act Clouded leopards are the smallest big cat and live in the forests of south and east Asia.

They are very well camouflaged with stunning dark brown and black cloud shapes that help them to disappear among trees. This, along with their very shy nature, means we still don’t know a lot about the habits of these animals in the wild.

‘Cloudies’ are around 5-6ft long, but over half of that is often taken up by a huge tail; used for balance up in the forest understory.

!

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. The four party packages below require a minimum of 10 children.*

Teddy Bears’ Picnic - 3+ Party with Puddles - 5+ Animal Antic s Party - 8+ Nature Detective Squad - 8+ Jungle Tumble Play Parties require a minimum of 15 children.

Find out more ONLINE!

T&Cs apply.

Jungle Tumble Play Par ty - All age s

Kids’ Zoo Academy 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 for child.

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

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

u m p h a fa

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

private natur e res erve Record number of interns at UmPhafa in 2018!

We have seen a record number of 92 interns visiting the reserve this year!

We welcomed 39 students from Essex University, Writtle University College and East Coast College, with the remaining 53 made up of interns visiting the reserve for placements of between two weeks and 12 weeks.

We would like to thank everyone who came and helped on the reserve throughout 2018.

Impala release at Colchester Zoo’s UmPhafa Reserve!

On Friday 31st August we saw the introduction of 41 new impala onto the reserve! This was made up of 2 adult males, 1 sub-adult male, 31 adult females, 2 juvenile males and 5 juvenile females.

We are hopeful that many of the adult females are pregnant and the team will be keeping a look out for a lot more youngsters later in the year!

The work interns undertake is an invaluable contribution to the conservation on the reserve, and gives interns the chance to learn new skills by helping with various tasks and projects, such as tracking our animals through the bush for behavioural observations, constructing fire breaks, camera trapping and various surveys.

rg a.org or umphafa@colchesterzoo.o For more information: www.umphaf MAGAZINE • ISSUE 14

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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!

Constantly developing...

Lion Rock extension We are now on the final phase of the redevelopment of Lion Rock, which will see the expansion and enhancement our pride of African lions’ home.

The redevelopment of Lion Rock will include a new behind-the-scenes area for our lion keepers to assist with the husbandry care for this amazing species.

Have you ‘herd’?

New mixed home At the start of 2018 our black and white colobus monkeys temporarily moved in with our patas monkeys as their old enclosure was demolished as part of the Lion Rock development project.

Since then, work on their new home has been completed and, not only have the colobus moved into their luxury new pad, but the patas monkeys have moved in with them, with the two groups now living together in this fantastic new area!

They are enjoying having aerial views over the zoo and surrounding areas and have been seen climbing their beams, which reach up to nine metres tall!

Colchester Zoo has begun some exciting work at our Main Entrance to develop a

brand-new admission building!

This is part of a number of phases to improve our entrance and retail areas, with phase 1 already under way to build a new admissions area. It is hoped this work will be completed for early 2019 with a new entrance foyer.

The new admissions building will provide quicker and easier access for all visitors, but Passholders and pre-paid tickets will be able to bypass the ticketing area completely and access via the new gate system being installed.

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Meet sweet Iniya...

Sam the humboldt penguin

We are excited to announce that on14th June we welcomed a female red panda cub! Dad, An An, has also been checking in on mum and baby regularly.

Our keepers have named the new cub ‘Iniya’ which means ‘sweet’ in Nepalese.

Iniya has been venturing out, exploring her home and continues to grow healthy and strong.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Sam, one of our male Humboldt penguins who passed away on 11th September 2018.

Sam was one of the first Humboldt penguins to successfully hatch here at Colchester Zoo and had to be hand-reared for the best chance of survival, living to the grand age of 32 years.

Redevelopment...

Since the colobus and patas monkeys have moved into their new enclosure, their old enclosure is now empty. The next phase is to redevelop this area so our pygmy hippos have a larger area to explore. We will also be building a new fish tank.

Sam had been under veterinary care for a few weeks, receiving treatment for a respiratory infection.

Sadly, his condition deteriorated further and after veterinary examination the difficult but kindest decision was made to euthanise Sam.

Sam was a fantastic character who had a special bond with his dedicated keepers. He was and will always be a much-loved penguin and sadly missed by many.

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Animal experiences Perfect Partners 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!

at

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.

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

Three amazing hands-on experiences to choose from.

PLUS discount for a second person to take part with you!

Package includes: • 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.

* on Keeper for the Day animal experience and Keeper Shadowing animal experience!

Passholders saves up to £25 Please pick up a copy of our magazine for the full details of this offer! * Participant must have a valid zoo pass. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. T&Cs apply.

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

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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.

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

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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!

Release your wild side before the big day!

For more information: Email: experiences@colchesterzoo.org Tel: 01206 331292 ext. 232 / 237 www.colchesterzoo.org Terms and conditions apply.

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Enjoy the spoils of winter with our range of festive foods and hot warming drinks.

rs e m r a w r e t in W with our

Pop into our catering outlets during your visit.

Christmas dinner panini and Merry Burger available only throughout the festive season.

Do you have a Zoo Pass?

* You can Please pick up a copy of our magazine for the full details of this offer!

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.

Cookie Crunch Hot Chocolate 26

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 14

in

or

THE SOUT HERN KITCHEN

Ghost Brownie at The Patisserie

Christmas is coming to The Great House.

21st November - 21st December 2018 Join us at The Great House, Lavenham in the run-up to Christmas and enjoy our delicious festive menu with friends and family or colleagues!

Call our team on 01787 247431 or email info@greathouse.co.uk with your contact details and requirements.

20% OFF FOOD at

on presentation of this voucher.

CPlease O N Tpick A CupT a copy U S

O magazine B O O K ofTour for01245 the full377130 details of(Chelmsford) this offer! www.colenzos.co.uk Not valid on drinks, set menus, Christmas bookings or in conjunction with any other offer.

Valid until 31st December 2018. Further T&Cs apply, ask your server for details.

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g n i p p o h s e v i t s Fe at

Struggling for the perfect Christmas present?

Why not visit our Ark Shop for your festive shopping.

We have a wide range of gifts available, suitable for all ages - from winter warmers to Christmas decorations - find everything you need in our gift shop.

Snap up our limited edition print of Rajang.

A unique present for your cheeky friend or relative.

Hotties, Tree decorations, vouchers and so much more...

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

The Acacia Gift shop is closed while exciting new developments take place!

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

CORPORATE OPPORTUNITIES We offer a number of corporate opportunities, including:

Company VIP away days

Corporate sponsorship Corporate adoptions

Trade ticket accounts Advertising space in the Colchester Zoo Magazine

team building

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

Team building at 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.

It is a powerful conservation brand for your company to be associated with in order to increase its own recognition and fulfil its CSR goals.

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

With over 1 million visitors annually and over 60,000 annual Passholders, Colchester Zoo offers huge marketing opportunities to tap into.

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

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.

Reach new markets by sponsoring a location at

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Top tips for autumn gardening

Conservation at Home Cover root vegetables with 15cm of leaves or straw and they can be harvested throughout the winter. If snow is forecast, cover with an old piece of carpet!

Evergreens form the backbone of the garden, providing structure and year-round interest, so the more evergreens in your garden, the better it will look in winter!

Clean water and food will

Gather all the tools you have used over the past few months and give them a

encourage visiting hedgehogs

to return regularly to your garden.

Minced meat, fresh liver, tinned dog food (not fish based), or even scrambled eggs appeal to these prickly creatures.

GOOD CLEAN

to remove all the dirt and rust.

If you don’t already have a COMPOST HEAP or bin, now is a good a time as any to start one with all the leaves and cuttings to be disposed of. For those who already have a bin, a good stir will help the composting process along.

You can now start planting spring flowering bulbs like daffodils, hyacinths and tulips, but you can also start planting onion and garlic bulbs.

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Leave undisturbed wild areas in your garden – piles of leaves or brushwood can make the perfect nest in which animals can hide, rest and hibernate.

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Birds may find it difficult to find natural foods so any extra food that you can put out will help, such as a range of seeds, fresh unsalted peanuts they also love dried mealworms or waxworms.

VER O C S I D orest the f ESCAPE TO THORPE FOREST, NORFOLK

Forest Holidays, Thorpe Forest, offer a natural escape beside the banks of the River Thet, close to where the Norfolk and Suffolk borders meet. After a day of family adventures, what a treat to return to your cabin, where the hot tub awaits. The perfect getaway for families, couples, groups of friends and even dogs in our specific pet friendly cabins!

SAVE 5% - Simply enter ZOOTHORPE on bookings and holidays before 31 March 2019 at www.forestholidays.co.uk

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S U F F O L K’S O N LY D I A M O N D M O D E L SC H O O L E x c e p t i o n a l e d u c a t i o n f o r b o y s a n d g i r l s a g e d 3 -1 8

BOOK A TOUR NOW admissions@ipswichhighschool.co.uk | 01473 201058 | ipswichhighschool.co.uk/admissions

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