Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens | Wild Magazine | Spring 2021

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ART & GARDENS PLANTS WORTH SAVING WHY DO WE PLANT TREES? DISCOVER ART IN THE ZOO LIVING ART

W ild is published quarterly for the members and friends of the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

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Presented by

SATURDAY, MAY 22 & SUNDAY, MAY 23 Save the Date The Art in the Garden Festival is a weekend celebration of creativity in all its forms—intriguing art, curated music, demonstration classes, extraordinary living pictures—all within our lush gardens. More information coming soon.

Insert caption here. Photo by Morgan Purvis

Supertunia Vista® Bubblegum® Petunia hybrid located in Savanna Blooms Garden

TABLE OF CONTENTS 2 Who's Who

14 Wild Things Young Professionals

26 Plants Worth Saving

15 Member Calendar of Events

30 Asian Small-clawed Otters

6 What's New

16 Education Event Schedule

34 Spring Macro Photography

8 Gardener's Corner

18 Social Spotlight

36 From Intern to Keeper

04 Garden Highlights

10 Nigerian Dwarf Goats

20 Living Art

12 ZooZone for Kids

22 Discover Art in the Zoo

SENIOR MANAGEMENT Tony Vecchio, Executive Director Teresa Kennedy, Chief Operating Officer Dan Maloney, Deputy Director of Animal Care & Conservation Holly Ellis, Chief Financial Officer Paula Shields, Director of Human Resources Leanne White, Director of Education Nikki Smith, Director of Development Kelly Rouillard, Director of Marketing & Sales EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE William Rowe, Chair Chuck Ged, Chair Elect / VC Finance Karen Estella Smith, Secretary Ann Harwood-Nuss, M.D., VC Animal Care & Conservation Carl Cannon, VC Capital Campaign Janna McNicholas, VC Governance John Hayt, Honorary Advisor* John McIlvaine, VC Marketing & Development Jordan Elsbury, Mayoral Appointee* Kelly Coker-Daniel, VC Education Kerri Stewart, VC Special Projects & Properties Lucia Lindsey, VC Gardens & Art

*City of Jacksonville Appointed

GENERAL BOARD Paul Blackstone Scott Chamberlayne Asher Chanan-Khan, M.D. *LeAnna Cumber Anne Marie Cushmac Kenyonn Demps Jessica Fowler Margaret Hicks Rene Kurzius Barney Lane George Mikes John Naugle *Ju’Coby Pittman Paul Sandler Joel Swanson Salmaan Wahidi Darryl Willie Scott Witt HONORARY BOARD Ivan Clare Dano Davis Lenore McCullagh Elizabeth Petway Herbert Peyton Clifford Schultz

Frank Surface Janet Vaksdal Weaver HONORARY PAST CHAIRS COUNCIL J.F. Bryan, Howard Coker Charles Commander Jed Davis Matt Fairbairn Joseph Hixon J. Michael Hughes Lewis Lee David Loeb Richard Martin Frank Miller John A. Mitchell Thomas Schmidt Carl “Hap” Stewart James Stockton Penny Thompson Courtenay Wilson Editors: Kelly Rouillard, Morgan Purvis Art Direction: Jen Morgan Graphic Design: Mark Sheppe

WHO'S WHO AT THE ZOO

By Morgan Purvis, Communications and Public Relations Representative

Horticulture Manager and President of AZH

(Association of Zoological Horticulture)

Chris Dailey 2

WILD MAGAZINE • SPRING 2021 • JACKSONVILLE ZOO AND GARDENS

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a place to connect with nature in all its forms—plants and animals alike. Gardens not only immerse us in a natural environment where we can see wildlife at work, but also show us the beautiful creations only nature can make. Caring for over 1,000 plant species and maintaining our many gardens is a feat on its own, and we are lucky to have a team of talented horticulturists led by Horticulture Manager Chris Dailey.

Chris first became interested in gardening through his grandparents, who had beautiful gardens with unusual plants. They were always willing to share plants and their knowledge with others. Chris’s passion for plants and nature led him to work at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens starting in August 1997. He started as a horticulture technician, quickly grew to horticulture supervisor, and then finally horticulture manager in 2008.

A common misconception is that the horticulture team at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens primarily grows food for the animals, however their main responsibility is to create and manage the gardens and habitats for the benefit of guests, animals, and wildlife.

Although Chris does not get to work with plants as much as he would like, he is thankful for his talented team who do an excellent job of caring for plant life. This allows him time for dayto-day meetings with colleagues and planning. His favorite days are when he gets to design, plan, and install new gardens and landscapes with the team.

Chris does not have a favorite garden and instead likes to think about Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens as one big garden with a zoo in it. The first plant that caught Chris’s eye years ago was Plumeria, which guests may find throughout the Zoo as a result. Trees are also special to him.

“Trees really are my favorite, especially big Florida native trees like live oak, bald cypress, southern magnolia, pines, and many others,” said Chris. “I believe Chris Dailey with one of his favorite Florida native trees in the background, Bald Cypress (Taxodium that planting a tree is one of the kindest distichum), with hanging spanish moss. The tree is located in River View Gardens. things that one can do for the world, and I will plant trees any chance I get.”

Chris is dedicated to the growth of Beyond plants, Chris’s favorite animal is Goober the horticulture in the zoo and aquarium field overall and works Aldabra tortoise and his favorite animal species is okapi. with other professional horticulturists as the president of the He especially likes to visit the wood storks when they take Association of Zoological Horticulture (AZH). Chris has been up their rookery in the trees along the Africa boardwalk, instrumental in many horticultural projects at Jacksonville because of the rare opportunity to see these birds up close.

Zoo and Gardens, but his favorite was in 2020 when they In his spare time, Chris enjoys hiking, disc golf, soccer, and planted a live oak tree funded by the AZH Wendy Andrew spending time with his family.

Cultivation Grant. Wendy was a friend, colleague, and mentor to the horticulture team and the tree serves as a special reminder of her legacy.

“I believe that planting a tree is one of the kindest things that one can do for the world…”

PHOTOS: MARK SHEPPE

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GARDEN HIGHLIGHTS

Radiant Flowers

Orange Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae), located in Savanna Blooms Garden and Play Park.

Cape Honeysuckle (Tecoma capensis) located in Savanna Blooms Garden and African Forest 4

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Chastetree (Vitex agnus-castus) located in Rivers of Color Garden along the Main Path.

PHOTOS: JOHN REED

Lotus (Nelumbo sp.), located seasonally in Asian Bamboo Garden.

Yellow Lantana (Lantana hybrid). Seasonal plant that does not have a permanent location in the Zoo.

PHOTOS: MORGAN PURVIS (TOP). MARK SHEPPE (BOTTOM)

Waterlily (Nymphaea hybrid), seasonally located in Savanna Blooms Garden and Asian Bamboo Garden.

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WHAT'S NEW

Births Hatchings Acquisitions

By Donna Bear, Curator of Species Management

Eastern bongo located in the African Loop (Tragelaphus eurycerus isaaci ) Found in Africa, wild bongos live in lowland rainforests, but can also inhabit mountainous terrain. They prefer to eat from leafy bushes but will also browse from small trees using their horns to lower the branches. The bongos at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens will even wade in the water to eat the delicious duckweed plant that grows in the moat throughout their exhibit.

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Known as gregarious creatures, up to 50 bongos can be seen gathered at mineral lick sites, taking advantage of the naturally occurring deposits of salt and other mineral nutrients. In Kenya, tourist lodges will make a mineral lick site nearby to attract bongos for their guests.

PHOTO: JOHN REED

Chestnut-breasted malcoha will be located in the Lorikeet Aviary in early March (Rhamphococcyx curvirostris singularis) Commonly found in Southeast Asia, from southern Myanmar to Indonesia, and even the Philippines, chestnut-breasted malcohas are tropical birds in the cuckoo family, Cuculidae. As you can guess from their names, they have a distinct rufous or rusty, red-colored throat and chest, but their wings and backs are a dark, shiny metallic green. They build their nest in the fork of trees using dead twigs to create a thick platform and then cover it up with leaves. They can have up to 2 or 3 eggs at a time. Fun fact: the German translation for these birds is schimmerkuckuck.

Green crested basilisk located in the Lost Temple at Range of the Jaguar (Basiliscus plumifrons) Also known as the Jesus Christ lizard, this reptile is most famous for its ability to run across the water’s surface. Mainly used for escaping from predators when young, the basilisk can run up to 7 miles per hour or 5 to 10 feet per second. They can defy gravity for at least 15 feet before starting to sink. Fortunately, basilisks are also great swimmers, as they can hold their breath for 10 to 30 minutes. While both males and females have crests on their heads and tails, males are usually bigger, and they also have a crest above their eyes and along their backs.

July–September, 2020 Births & Hatchings

Acquisitions

Boat-billed heron..........................................0.0.4 GIANT OTTER.................................................1.2.0 COTTON-TOP TAMARIN..............................0.0.1 Eastern bongo...............................................0.1.0

Green crested basilisk...................................0.0.2 Giraffe.............................................................1.0.0 Penguin...........................................................1.0.0 Chestnut-breasted malcoha........................1.1.0 FLORIDA MANATEE......................................1.0.0

PHOTOS: JOHN REED (TOP), CAYLE PEARSON (BOTTOM)

LEGEND: 0.1.2 • • • • •

First digit male. Second digit female Third digit sex unknown Two digits only represent male and female CAPS = Endangered Species * (Asterisk) = First time at the Zoo

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GARDENER'S CORNER

Why Do We Plant Trees?

By Chris Dailey, Horticulture Manager

Japanes Maple located in the Asian Bamboo Garden

Have you ever planted a tree? These large plants are critical to our world and provide many benefits to us, yet we often overlook their importance. There are many reasons to consider planting a tree.

Often, we plant trees for simple or selfish reasons. We like the way a tree looks, for the pretty flowers, uniquely shaped leaves, textured bark, or artistic form or structure. We plant a tree for the fruit that we can eat, the shade that it provides, or to hang a swing on. Though these are great reasons, there is more to understand about the advantages of trees.

Most people know the basic relationship between trees and animals. We may know squirrels eat acorns from oak trees and many birds eat berries from holly trees. But did you know insects that feed on trees are an important part of many bird diets, especially baby birds? Where trees are missing, we notice bird diversity declines dramatically.

In countless ways, trees provide habitat for wildlife: a location and parts for building nests, a structure for cavity dwelling, a perch for roosting, an escape from predators—the list goes on. Birds, mammals, reptiles, fish, and insects all rely on trees for these habitat opportunities. Additionally, trees planted in urban areas help to connect natural areas, giving wildlife more space and opportunities to thrive.

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Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) located in Main Camp and Land of the Tiger.

PHOTOS: CHRIS DAILEY

There are also many environmental reasons for planting trees. From middle school science class, we understand that plants produce oxygen for us to breath, while removing carbon dioxide from the air. Plants, especially trees, store this carbon and hold onto it for as long as it lives. This is a vitallyimportant environmental role that trees excel at. Trees also help to control the erosion of soil. Wind and water are good at moving the soil, and that is a problem. Tree roots help to hold soil in place and tree leaves and limbs deflect wind and rain drops that cause erosion. Trees also play a vital role in water cycles, clean air, and temperature cooling.

Finally, there are social benefits to planting trees. Many studies have shown that children’s emotional and cognitive development improve when they spend time in green spaces including trees. Documentation supports that trees, especially mature ones, add to property value and community enhancement. Overall, it seems we are increasingly accepting that when we spend time among trees, we are calmer, happier, and mentally healthier.

In short: trees are invaluable. Consider planting one (or many) when and where you can.

American hophornbeam (Ostrya virginiana) located near the lion exhibit.

Pink Trumpet (Handroanthus impetiginosus) Tree located in Range of the Jaguar.

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ANIMAL HIGHLIGHTS

Nigerian Dwarf Goats Located in Play Park

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PHOTOS: MORGAN PURVIS

Zoo Exhibits Play Park

Habitat Urban Areas

Diet As herbivores the goats eat hay, grain, and other plants

Range Found world-wide, but originated in West Africa

PHOTOS: MARK SHEPPE (TOP, BOTTOM RIGHT), MORGAN PURVIS (BOTTOM LEFT)

Conservation Status Not Threatened

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ZOO ZONE FOR KIDS

DIY Craft: Sun Prints

By Emily Blum, Educator

What You'll Need • •

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Colorful construction paper Clear plastic wrap, or a large piece of plexiglass Leaves, flowers, toy animals or other flat items Small rocks to use as weights

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Some Science Connections Behind the Fun: Some of the sun’s energy travels to Earth as light waves. Certain light waves, called ultraviolet waves, have enough energy to break the bonds of chemicals, like the dyes in the construction paper. In this experiment, you will see that the construction paper shaded by leaves and flowers did not change color. That is because the ultraviolet light waves were blocked out and could not damage the paper. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) light can damage skin too. That is why it is smart to wear UV-blocking sunscreen or stay in the shade when the sun is strong. To be environmentally-friendly, we recommend marine-safe sunscreens. Check the ingredients labeled on the back of your sunscreen to ensure that marine-harming chemicals or micro/nano-sized particles are not included.

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Collect leaves, flowers, and other natural items.

Look for flatter objects with interesting shapes. You can even get creative and use toy animals!

Place colorful construction paper in the sunlight on a driveway, sidewalk, or table. What color do you think will work best? Make a prediction.

3 Create a design on the paper using the natural items you found.

Cover the items with clear plastic wrap (or plexiglass) and weigh the edges down with rocks, so that the plastic lays flat and won’t blow away.

4 Leave your project in the sun for at least three to four hours. The longer you can leave it out in the sun, the better!

5 Remove the plastic wrap and items from the paper to see the designs created. Was your prediction correct? What turned out the best?

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DEVELOPMENT

Things are Getting Wild An update on The Wild Things Young Professionals Group

By Ausu Anaraki, Major Gifts Officer

Are you tired of the usual networking events? Have you recently moved to the Jacksonville area and want to meet new people? Have you recently graduated and are looking for a new way to get involved with your community? Connect with your peers and the community in a meaningful way while having a global impact by joining The Wild Things at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.

The Wild Things is a Young Professionals Group for those ages 21 to 44. The group aims to support the Zoo by: • I n c r e a s i n g a w a r e n e s s f o r p r o g r a m s a n d conservation efforts • Raising funds to support the Zoo's programs and initiatives • Connecting members with the Zoo through a n i m a l e n c o u n t e r s , e d u c a t i o n a l p ro g r a m s , volunteer opportunities, and social events.

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What do you have to do to join this wild group?

1. Be a Zoo member (looks like you have that covered already!)

2. Be between the ages of 21 and 44 3. Pay $20 per adult in annual dues by going to jacksonvillezoo.org/wild-things If you have any questions, please contact our Development Department at: development@jacksonvillezoo.org (904) 757-4463 ext. 208 Wild Things Executive Council for 2020–21 President—Jessica Fowler Vice President—Cyrus Moshiree Secretary—Julie Hart Communications Chair—Rachel Seaton Events Co-Chair—Jessica Caywood Events Co-Chair—Rachel Seaton Volunteer Chair—Angela Perez Membership Chair—Cyrus Moshiree At Large—Jeremy Hart

MEMBERS

Calendar of Events March

May

Wine & Cheese—with Goats!

Snapshot Society

March 18, 2021 Sold Out. Be on the look out for this event coming again in April!

Spend time with family or friends and soak up the energy of this unique experience curated exclusively for adult-only members. Start with a glass of red or white served alfresco and listen to music while taking in the fresh air.

This is a great birthday gift for any animal lover or just a great way to spend an amazing evening.

May 15, 2021 For an experience worth a thousand words, the Snapshot Society offers unique, members-only access to quarterly photography classes with early entrance, networking opportunities, and personalized instruction from our expert Zoo photographer. Tickets are required for this class and must be purchased online, in advance.

Earth Day and Party for the Planet Presented by: Wild Things

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April 24, 2021 Earth Day reminds us to take care of our planet—it’s the connection that we have to nature, plants, and animals.

Take part in unique opportunities to celebrate Earth's biodiversity and learn how you can take action to make a difference. Festivities will feature environmental education activities, animal encounters, and family fun. More information coming soon.

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SATURDAY, MAY 22 & SUNDAY, MAY 23

Art in the Garden Festival Creativity in Bloom Presented by: Community First Credit Union The Art in the Garden Festival is a weekend celebration of creativity in all its forms—intriguing art, curated music, demonstration classes, extraordinary living pictures—all within our lush gardens. Learn more at jacksonvillezoo.org.

May 22 & 23, 2021 The Art in the Garden Festival is a celebration to encourage the appreciation of art discipline. Here you will find revolutionaries, innovators, dreamers, and fantasists, plus a few theatrical illusions and artistry. The festival will be full of thrills—intriguing art, curated music, demonstration classes, extraordinary living pictures, and much more!

Stay tuned for more information.

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EDUCATION

Kid & Family Programs Upcoming Events

By Jamie Gilkison, Education Engagement Supervisor

Event Descriptions Stroller Safari It's a special introduction to the Zoo for our littlest guests. Make new friends while you visit animal exhibits, meet a friendly animal ambassador, and explore the animal world with all your senses.

Spring Zoo Camp Stretch your legs and join us for Spring Zoo Camp at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. Spend a day or two exploring the natural world while playing games, meeting animals, and chatting with keepers.

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Wake Up Wild No need to get dressed up for this program! Stay in your pajamas, get your favorite breakfast ready, and join one of our Education Animal Ambassadors live via Zoom for a new twist on your morning meal.

Spring Zoo Camp registration now open!

Register today at jacksonvillezoo.org/zoo-camps

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March Spring Camp Please see ad left page Week-Long Option: •

Duval County: March 8–12

Single Day Options: •

St. Johns/Clay County: March 16, 17, 18 (Tuesday–Thursday)

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Nassau County: March 22*, 23, 24, 25 (Monday–Thursday) *Monday, March 22 is also a DCPS In-Service Day

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Camden County: March 30, 31, April 1 (Tuesday–Thursday)

March (con't)

April

Stroller Safari Africa Loop 1 March 23, 2021 8:45–9:30 a.m.

Ages 0–3

Wake Up Wild Box Turtle April 10, 2021 9–9:30 a.m.

All Ages

Stroller Safari Africa Loop 1 March 27, 2021 8:45–9:30 a.m.

Ages 0–3

Stroller Safari Africa Loop 2 April 20 8:45–9:30 a.m.

Ages 0–3

Wake Up Wild Orange Winged Amazon Parrot March 27 9–9:30 a.m.

All Ages

May Stroller Safari Asia & Riverview Gardens May 18, 2021 8:45–9:30 a.m.

Ages 0–3 Stroller Safari Asia & Riverview Gardens May 22, 2021 8:45–9:30 a.m.

Ages 0–3

PHOTO: JANEL JANKOWSI

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SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT

photomarkmedia

my_enchanting_florida_life

Tag your posts with #jaxzoomember for a chance to see your photos here!

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creationmigration

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ANIMAL PROGRAMS

Living Art

By Donna Bear, Curator of Species Management

Green and Black Poison Dart Frog located in Range of the Jaguar. Photo: Cayle Pearson, Assistant Curator of Herps, Birds, and Others

Throughout nature insects, fish, birds, reptiles, and mammals, living art is represented by numerous species in an amazing fashion. The colors and patterns of a creature’s fur, feathers, and scales can represent any color in the rainbow—whether it is vibrant, or soft and muted. Art is not only about what is pleasing to the eye, but frequently there is a purpose for the hues and designs adorning animals.

Various species utilize appearance adaptations.

Scales, fur, or feathers, serve as camouflage for many creatures, blending them into their surroundings to hide them from predators or keep them from detection while awaiting their prey. Grevy’s zebra, for example, capitalize on their disruptive coloration. Sporting their contrasting striping, when they stand close to other zebras, it can confuse a would-be predator, making it difficult for the hunter to determine the outline of an individual.

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Grevy's Zebra. Photo: Kori Odum, Mammal Keeper

Atlantic stingrays self-decorate, burying in the sand appearing to become one with the ocean floor. The Henkel’s leaf-tailed gecko uses color matching and mimicry, with a tail that looks like foliage to blend in with branches and leaf litter and seems to disappear into its surroundings.

In addition to protection from predators or hiding to capture prey, an animal’s brilliant shades and ornate patterns can attract a mate. During breeding season, some male birds become more vibrant to improve their odds of being chosen by a female. The male hooded merganser’s more subtle courtship behaviors include preening and wing flapping to display his impressive plumage, a remarkable combination of snow white, black, and chestnut markings. He will also shake his head to get attention and to show off his beautiful fanshaped white oval crest bordered by black, his striking yellow eyes, and black beak.

Scarlet King Snake located in Wild Florida.

Photo: Emily Fyfe, Senior Herpetology Keeper

Mimicry, which means appearing to be something you are not, can allow an otherwise harmless animal like the scarlet kingsnake to imitate the venomous coral snake, deterring any would-be predators. Bright coloring can be a warning indicating to other animals that something is venomous, like the coral snake, or poisonous to eat, like the many different brightly colored poison dart frogs.

Hooded Merganser located in the Emerald Forest Aviary in Range of the Jaguar. Photo: Samantha Clay, HBO Keeper Assistant

Yellow and Blue Poison Dart frog located in Range of the Jaguar.

Photo Cayle Pearson Assistant Curator of Herps, Birds, and Others

Henkel's Leaf-tailed Gecko located in the Africa Loop.

Next time, as you are walking through the Zoo and observing wildlife, consider the astonishing ways our animal counterparts use their appearance to survive.

Whether hunting for food or trying to avoid being food, animals utilize coloration, camouflage, mimicry, and other incredible strategies to stay alive and thrive.

Photo Cayle Pearson Assistant Curator of Herps, Birds, and Others

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EXHIBIT HIGHLIGHTS

Discover Art in the Zoo At Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, w e v a l u e c re a t i v i t y i n a l l f o r m s .

We host beautiful sculptures, literary display pieces, and striking monuments amongst our lush gardens. We collaborate with talented local artists to cultivate new opportunities and are dedicated to growing appreciation for wildlife through these artistic pieces.

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PHOTOS: MORGAN PURVIS

PHOTOS: MARK SHEPPE (TOP), MORGAN PURVIS (BOTTOM)

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PHOTOS: MORGAN PURVIS

PHOTOS: MARK SHEPPE

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CONSERVATION

Plants Worth Saving

By Lucas Meers, Conservation Program Officer

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PHOTOS: CHRIS EVANS

When we hear compliments from guests on how much they love Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, they do not always know why their visit feels so unique. After a brief conversation, many realize the gardens and the incredible work the horticulture team plays a part in offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of our daily lives.

Just as the flowers and plants are an integral part of your visit, our photosynthetic friends are an integral part of every ecosystem. That is why we work to protect plant species in addition to the animal species we love so much.

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has four flagship plant conservation programs focusing on endangered plant species in our region:

Cigar or Cowhorn Orchid, Cyrtopodium punctatum (Pictured left and above) This is a gorgeous orchid found in south Florida that was reduced to only a few known individuals due to poaching, which is taking them from the wild. Now, with the help of propagation at Atlanta Botanical Garden, we planted several of these individuals in the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park to increase their numbers in the wild.

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Chapman’s Fringed Orchid, Platanthera chapmanii This rare orchid is threatened with habitat loss and only found in a few pockets in north Florida, South Georgia, and a tiny population near Houston, Texas. We monitor all known populations in the region while looking for new populations and working with landowners and government agencies to protect their habitat.

Torreya Tree, Torreya taxifolia This is America’s most endangered conifer. Threats to the species include a fungal disease thought to have originated from China, but also habitat loss after Hurricane Michael swept through their tiny pocket of habitat in 2018 knocking down 90 percent of the tree cover. We assist with monitoring their population, creating a safeguard population, and documenting the fungal disease.

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PHOTOS: HOUSTON SNEAD (TOP), JEN MORGAN (BOTTOM)

Pitcher Plants, Sarracenia spp.

These carnivorous plants are found throughout eastern North America, with several species found here in Florida.

Threatened with habitat loss, we partner with the Atlanta Botanical Garden to regularly plant pitcher plants in their native habitat in Deer Lake State Park.

When you visit the Zoo, you will see signs for these four species where you can learn more about each one. Plus, every time you visit, a portion of your ticket or membership goes to support the protection of these species. Thank you for supporting plant conservation.

PHOTO: JEN MORGAN

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ANIMAL HIGHLIGHTS

Asian Small Clawed Otters

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PHOTO: JOHN REED

Zoo Exhibits Land of the Tiger Diet Crabs, snails and other molluscs, insects, and small fish

Habitat Freshwater rivers, lakes, and ponds surrounded by moderate vegetation

IUCN Redlist Vulnerable

Range From India, and throughout Southeast Asia

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PHOTOS: JOHN REED

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SNAPSHOT SOCIETY

Spring Macro Photography Notes from the Field

By John Reed, Photography Volunteer & Snapshot Society Teacher

From March through May, the plants rejoice in a new season and bring forth abundant and wonderful flowers. Flowers are perfect for any photography, but really can shine with close-up, “macro” photography— and amazing art is possible in the close-up world we do not always see.

DSLR, point-and-shoot, and non-adjustable cameras like most phones usually have a scene mode, setting, or other ability to get really close, even to the point of true macro photography. By the way, “macro” simply means that the size of your subject on the camera sensor is exactly the same size as it is in real life, also called “one to one” ratio.

If you have a DSLR or other interchangeable lens camera, they too have a close-up or macro setting.

You could also buy a macro lens, but before doing that, here is a tip: good macro lenses are quite expensive and you may find after dabbling for a while that macro really is not your thing. Instead, you could invest in extension tubes. These are commonly purchased as a set of three and are quite reasonable in price. The extension tube is nothing more than a spacer that fits between the lens and the camera body, thus moving the lens farther away from the camera.

Doing so allows you to focus much closer on the subject than possible without the tube. The tubes, or spacers, in a set are different lengths. The longer the tube, the closer you can get, and you can stack all three to get really close—all the way to true macro with a lens you already have!

3 Tubes

Subject

This shows three tubes being used and the resulting photo is on

Extension Tube

the page to the right.

Now you can see if macro is really your thing without a big investment. The only warning is to do your research because some camera bodies will not accept extension tubes. Also be aware that with a tube installed, you can only focus on close distances.

For anything, even a few feet away, the camera will not focus.

Now, come out to capture the wonderful flora at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. You will be happy and surprised with the details revealed that are not usually seen day-to-day.

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PHOTOS: JOHN REED

VOLUNTEERS

From Intern to Keeper: Jacob’s Volunteer Journey

By Alyssa Knowlton, Volunteer Engagement Coordinator

Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a keeper at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens? These crucial employees come from a variety of backgrounds, but all bring an abundance of experience and knowledge t o p ro v i d e t h e b e s t c a re f o r o u r a n i m a l s . M a n y gain this experience and knowledge from previous volunteer and internship opportunities before moving on to full-time positions. This is exactly what Jacob Brown did to achieve his goal of becoming a keeper.

Jacob worked in the restaurant industry before he decided to pursue a career in animal husbandry.

After attending a one-year program at the Florida I n t e r n a t i o n a l Te a c h i n g Z o o ( F I T Z ) , J a c o b s o u g h t out inter nship opportunities to capitalize on the information he gained through that course. Knowing he would have to earn his keep, Jacob submitted his application to our unpaid mammal keeper internship.

After an interview and some waiting, Jacob received news that he was selected for the internship and would be working in Mammals Area 3 caring for the animals in Wild Florida and African Forest. The internship not only provided him the opportunity to implement the skills he gained through FITZ, but he also learned more about how to properly care, clean, and support a wide range of animals.

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WILD MAGAZINE • SPRING 2021 • JACKSONVILLE ZOO AND GARDENS

Jacob started in early January 2020, and unfortunately, had a few weeks left of his internship when the Zoo closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

When we reopened, our internship program was still on a hiatus, although volunteers were able to return. Jacob became one of those few to return, but this time as a volunteer. Even though this was a role vastly different than Jacob was used to, he was able to adapt and become one of the most dependable volunteers during that time. Jacob used our Exhibit Host volunteer role to sharpen his public speaking skills and expanded his animal knowledge beyond the animals in his internship area.

While volunteering as an Exhibit Host, Jacob was able to educate the public through his passion. This is something many people do not think of as being part of a keeper’s job, however it is so important to educate every guest about these animals to form a connection with people and the animals that we care for. Jacob volunteered for over 120 hours in a two-month span. He stayed in contact with the keepers he previously worked with and continued to express his interest and desire to join their team.

This perseverance and dedication to the Zoo paid off when an Assistant Keeper position opened, and Jacob applied. Since the keeper staff knew his work and enthusiasm, it was an easy decision to hire Jacob in July.

Jacob currently works primarily with our Manatee Critical Care Center but extends a helpful hand to any mammal keeper that needs it, and he loves the day-to-day actions he experiences. Now, well over a year since he started his journey at the Zoo, he has accomplished his goal in becoming a keeper, but does not intend to stop there. Jacob hopes to one day work with the primates and continue his career at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens—one that started with an internship and volunteering.

WILD MAGAZINE • SPRING 2021 • JACKSONVILLE ZOO AND GARDENS

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Burn Jelly, Bulbine frutescens Located in Savanna Blooms Garden Photo: John Reed