Greetings, KCZoo fans!
I hope that your summer and fall have been exceptional, and I also hope that we were a part of it. I would like to thank you for your help in making 2024 an exciting and successful one for us. Despite still having nearly two months to go, we have already had a record-setting year.
We set our attendance budget at 1.1 million guests this year, and we are already at 1.15 million! We hoped to have over 30,000 memberships and we are at nearly 32,000 for the first time in our history! I believe that this is because we strive to make the Zoo better each year with even more value for you and your families. Certainly, the addition of the Aquarium has been appreciated by all our visitors, but I believe that it has just added another new adventure to an already great value.
Because of this success, we’ve been able to put more dollars into improvements throughout the Zoo grounds. We have improved many walkways over the past few months, including the addition of a paved pathway through the sheep station for better accessibility. We have also widened our viewing area at the cheetah habitat and rebuilt the overlook into our savanna area at the African marketplace. If you have enjoyed the new electric train, you will be happy to hear that we have a second one ordered that will be here by next summer. These new trains carry an extra car and have wider seats, making it a better experience.
Some improvements unfortunately come with some challenges. I apologize for some of the closed pathways that were caused by our project in the Africa kopje area, but I am certain that everyone will eventually appreciate the results. You will be able to read more about that construction in this issue.
I am also happy to report that we have a HUGE addition to the Zoo coming next summer. As you will see in another article, we will be temporarily adding life-sized animatronic dinosaurs that will delight kids of all ages and will be included with membership or daily admission.
I was so pleased to greet over 20,000 people at last month’s Boo at the Zoo event, and nearly 35,000 people have already attended GloWild this year! For those that haven’t been yet, you still have plenty of time to do so as it will be running through December 29. We have improved the experience every year and I believe that this is the best one yet.
As always, there is so much more to read about inside this edition of Expeditions. I hope you enjoy learning about the many new animals that have arrived, a few of our wonderful conservation programs, and some of the staff that make the Zoo the amazing place it is.
Have a wonderful and safe holiday season and I hope to see you back at the Zoo soon!
Sincerely,
Sean Putney Executive Director & CEO
Friends of the Zoo BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Executive Committee
Tony Reinhart, Chairperson – Ford Motor Company
Dave Sanchez, Treasurer – PwC
Al Mauro, Jr., Secretary – Chinquapin Trust Company/ Hallmark
Dr. Yolanda Cargile – Center School District
Sean Putney – Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
Members
J.C. Alonzo – Black & Veach
Jennifer Bennett – Rocky Mountain Society of Orthodontists
Pat Contreras – KC Parks & Recreation
Chris Cotten – KC Parks and Recreation
Dr. Ellen Crowe – Metropolitan Community College
Ana Nubia Duin – La Mega KC Spanish Radio
Hayley Hanson – Husch Blackwell
Julius Lai – Community Volunteer
Kate Lambert – Dixon Family Foundation
Katie McDonald – Evergy
Janet Miles-Bartee – Local Investment Commission (LINC)
Salvatore Montalbano – Constellation Energy
Brian Pung – JE Dunn Construction
John Russ – UMB Bank
Willard Breidenthal Snyder – Community Volunteer
Mark Swanson – Burns & McDonnell
Todd Trent – Lockton
Tom Wright – Children’s Mercy
Representing the City of Kansas City
Andrea Bough – City Council
Brian Platt – City Manager
Zoological District Commissioners
Greg Canuteson, Chair – Clay County
Jerry Nolte, Vice Chair – Clay County
Charlie Franklin, Treasurer – Jackson County
Carol Hallquist – Jackson County
Pat Contreras – KC Parks & Recreation
Sean Putney – Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
Sean greeting guests at Boo at the Zoo.,
Working with Save Giraffes Now
By Jacob Stack, advanced animal care specialist, Team Savannah
Few people realize that the giraffe population has decreased by around 40 percent over the last three decades. In fact, giraffes have been undergoing a silent extinction so have not received the conservation help they deserved until recently.
The Masai giraffe is one of four species of giraffe and is the variety that resides at the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. The Masai species has declined by around 50 percent and is classified as endangered. Reasons for this population decline include civil unrest, poaching, and drought. The main factor, however, is continued habitat loss due to the growth of human population, highways, and cities. This limits the amount of space and resources for giraffes as well as isolates populations from one another.
On September 11, I headed to Nairobi, Kenya, to meet with the Zoo's conservation partner Save Giraffes Now (SGN), whose mission is to save giraffes from extinction so they can live safely in their native range in Africa. SGN was founded in 2019 and has ongoing projects in 10 African countries that include helping to set up and protect conservancies, rewilding and translocating giraffes, population studies, and human-wildlife coexistence projects. My trip was specifically focused on one of SGN’s important human-wildlife coexistence projects to protect these majestic animals.
My 9-day stay in Kenya was at the International Livestock Research Institute on the Kapiti Wildlife Conservacy, and our project took place in the Athi Kapiti region, which is about 40 minutes south of Nairobi. This region is very important from a conservation standpoint because it connects the Nairobi National Park to other southern national parks such as Tsavo East. The region is comprised of 17 conservancies as well as a lot of ranches and towns. Also in the region is the Kenya Standard Gauge Railway and the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway, a very busy roadway that connects the two cities. Along this highway, SGN is conducting a research study on the amount of roadkill.
Roadkill is very common in the area and affects all wildlife, including giraffes. These incidents often happen at night and are a danger to both animals and humans. Part of the research is considering possible mitigation efforts such as signs and warning lights, but these are often ignored or stolen.
Representing SGN in Kenya during my time there was Aggrey Chemwa (head of research), Kayla Walisch (director of operations), and Fiona Sandeman (director of East African operations).
Another more permanent option is the creation of animal corridors such as underpasses that would allow wildlife to safely travel under the highway. These would come at a much higher cost to construct, so studies must be done to prove they can be effective.
Our research project is to determine if giraffes will use the underpasses. A few underpasses do exist along the railway, so we set up multiple trail cameras along the underpass to observe its use. These cameras as well as all additional equipment used, plus the security we needed during the project, were funded by the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium.
During this trip, we successfully set up 10 trail cameras to monitor the underpass and have already seen a wide variety of species, including Masai giraffes, using it for safe crossing. The observations are continuing both by SGN and here at the Zoo for the next six months. Saving Giraffes Now will then be able to use the data to advocate for the construction of additional underpasses in the region.
The first giraffe I saw in Kenya was actually browsing right next to the Mombasa Highway. This moment has really stuck with me because it illustrated just how real this problem is. I find conservation projects that deal with human-wildlife coexistence, such as this one, very important. I believe it isn't just the right thing to do, but also our responsibility to help these animals if we are going to continue to infringe upon the already limited space that they have.
I was also able to visit and learn about multiple conservancies in the Athi Kapiti region, ranging from established conservancies to those in their infancy. We spent time at the Giraffe Centre, which is a conservation park that breeds and releases the endangered Rothschild giraffe back into conservancies.
We also traveled to Nanyuki, Kenya, to visit with conservation representatives of Mount Kenya National Park. Here they have an elephant corridor that spans multiple conservancies and directs elephants to the national park while also avoiding farmland. There are two underpasses along that route we were able to visit to learn about their design and see how successful they have been for elephants and other wildlife.
Honoring the Alpha and Looking Towards the Future
By Jenna Felix, animal care team lead, Team Ruwenzori
On July 19, 2024, we said a sorrowful goodbye to the alpha chimpanzee, Dekese. Reigning as alpha since 2013, this was a tremendous loss for the troop and all who were privileged to have worked with him in his 21 years at Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium.
Dekese arrived in 2003 from Zoo Miami with his brother Nusu. Upon his arrival, Dekese had a difficult time integrating into the troop. It can be very difficult for adult males to find their place in a troop due to the social nature of chimpanzees. Chimpanzees live in a hierarchy made up of an alpha male, beta male, and all other chimpanzees ranking below them. When Dekese was introduced to the troop, there was already an alpha male and multiple strong-willed high-ranking females. This made for a combination of issues that Dekese had to work through socially with the already established chimpanzee troop.
During his first couple of years, Dekese tried to play socially smart by staying out of the way of the higherranking chimpanzees. By 2010, the troop had lost their alpha and dynamics were changing, including Dekese’s ranking in the hierarchy. With the alpha gone, Dekese began working on his social dynamics with the females and the remaining adult male, Bondo. He built his social status through grooming sessions, being mindful during feeding times to allow the higher-ranking chimpanzees to get the preferred foods, and playing it smart during altercations between the troop. Over the following years, the next alpha would be decided between Dekese and Bondo, as the last remaining adult males in the troop.
The alpha status remained unknown until 2013 when Dekese was officially declared alpha due to the support he was receiving from the troop.Though not strong in his new role, Dekese showed his status through his large displays and social bonds. He would wake the troop each morning by displaying with large toys and pant hoots. He was often observed in grooming sessions with the females and wrestling with Bondo, who was his beta male and righthand man.
As alpha, Dekese also fathered the Zoo’s three youngest chimpanzees, Milo, Ruw, and Gracie. His love for his children was shown through play sessions full of giggles from both Dekese and the kids. His memory will live on through the kids as they have taken on many of his traits.
Now that there is no alpha, the troop has three options for Dekese’s successor. Milo, Dekese’s son, could potentially take over the role, as the status of alpha can be inherited. Milo was born at the KCZoo and has spent the past nine years growing his bonds with the current troop. His mother was also high-ranking before her passing, so Milo has never known the life of a low-ranking chimpanzee. He also has the backing of his sisters Teeoni, Ruw, and Gracie.
The troop's two newest members, Doug and Pablo, are also in line to become the next alpha. Doug was previously the alpha at the Sacramento Zoo before moving to the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. He earned the alpha status at the young age of 11 after the previous alpha passed away, and remained so until his move. Pablo had a shortlived reign as a dominant male but has not shown any interest in becoming a high-ranking chimpanzee again. He is not socially savvy and does not always make the best choices when put into intense social situations.
Which male will ultimately become the next alpha remains unknown, but animal care specialists continue to monitor the troop daily and note any changes in the troop's dynamics.
Dekese photo by Jenna Felix, animal care team lead
A Spectacular Season of GloWild: Legends & Lore
Get ready to be dazzled at GloWild: Legends & Lore presented by Saint Luke’s! We are thrilled to once again host this gorgeous lantern festival that features an entirely new theme including legendary dinosaurs, fantastical myths, and whimsical fairy tales.
The mile-long path at GloWild is filled with illuminated sculptures created from nearly 89,000 feet of silk-like fabric and 34 tons of steel. Crafted by 151 artisans, the breathtaking displays are filled with photo ops perfect for the holiday season. Plus, Wednesday night guests also have access to Sobela Ocean Aquarium!
GloWild kicked off on September 6 this year and featured an assortment of fun fall activities during the first few months as well as performances by Circus Scorpius.
Now that we are headed into the holiday season, GloWild features our popular North Pole Village, nightly visits with Santa, and the Grinch Express train ride! You will also be able to decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus or make s'mores for an extra charge.
GloWild requires a separate ticket from regular Zoo admission or membership. All our regular Zoo accessibility amenities are available, including ECV scooters, strollers, wheelchairs, and wagons. We ask that you reserve your ECV scooters online at least 24 hours in advance.
Running through December 29, GloWild is closed Mondays and Tuesdays except for Thanksgiving week. View the full operating calendar, get tickets, and learn about GloWild at kansascityzoo.org/glowild!
Congratulations to the Graham Family!
Another milestone reached! On September 1, which happened to be the one-year anniversary of Sobela Ocean Aquarium, the Zoo also welcomed our millionth guest of 2024. The Graham family earned this distinct honor, and Executive Director/CEO Sean Putney was there to welcome these lucky visitors and provide a behind-the-scenes tour of the Aquarium. This is only the third time in history the KCZoo has welcomed more than a million guests, and this was two months ahead of previous years in 2019 and 2023. We want to send our sincere thanks to everyone who helped us achieve this milestone!
MOTUS Wildlife Tracking System
The Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is excited to announce that we’ve joined the MOTUS Wildlife Tracking System, which is playing a big role in our work with our SAFE North American Songbirds program. The Zoo now has a tower that can gather data from animals in a 15-kilometer radius, allowing information to be accumulated across the Greater Kansas City area. MOTUS uses this radio telemetry to track numerous species of birds, bats, and insects.
Researchers begin the process by fitting lightweight radiotransmitters on the animals, and their unique signals are then detected by receivers scattered around the globe. The data is sent to Birds Canada, where the information is filtered, analyzed, archived, and distributed to researchers and organizations in the network. The unique signature of each tag helps researchers determine distance, speed, length of stay, and other behavioral aspects.
MOTUS aids in large-scale research and is a program of Birds Canada in partnership with collaborating researchers and organizations including the Missouri Department of Conservation and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. Animal care manager Amy Mohr, who has spearheaded the SAFE North American Songbirds program at the Zoo, says MOTUS will help in numerous studies and partnerships with global conservation efforts. It has already helped to collect valuable migration data that can be used by researchers all over the world.
Take A Gander At These Ganders!
We are soaring with delight to welcome a new feathered species, the red-breasted goose! Ganderson Cooper, Ryan Gosling, and Goose Willis are brothers who recently transferred from the Woodland Park Zoo and are all just a little over one year old.
The red-breasted goose’s native range is in Europe, Asia, and Russia, and it will spend winter along the Black Sea in Bulgaria, Romania, and Ukraine. Classified as “vulnerable” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) red list, the red-breasted goose is threatened due to hunting, human intrusion, and habitat loss. It is estimated only 40,000 remain.
At the Zoo, you will find the red-breasted geese residing in the Birds of Australasia aviary!
Meet the Residents of...
The Discovery Barn is the perfect spot to see an exciting array of animals from land, air, and water while also staying warm and cozy in the winter! This two-story building features many guest favorites including the squirrel monkey family, Arnie the sloth, and even Louise the Burmese python. See if you can spot all of these sensational species and more the next time you visit!
LINNE'S TWO-TOED SLOTH
PREVOST'S SQUIRREL
Known for its colorful coat and incredible climbing abilities, the Prevost’s squirrel is native to the Thai-Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo, and other surrounding islands.
DONKEY GOAT
SQUIRREL MONKEY
THE DISCOVERY BARN
WYOMING TOAD
This amphibian species was considered extinct in its native range due to issues like toxic pesticides, but it now has a hopeful future thanks to a reintroduction program in which the KCZoo and many other facilities participate.
GOLDEN LION TAMARIN
BURMESE PYTHON
Formerly a resident of the snake house, Louise is a 125-pound python that now resides on the bottom floor of the Discovery Barn! Her new habitat has been freshly renovated for the 15-foot snake.
Tasmanian King Crabs
The next time you visit Helzberg Penguin Plaza, stop by the cylinder aquarium to meet the Tasmanian king crabs! Native to southern Australia, the Tasmanian king crab can reach a weight of nearly 40 pounds, making it one of the heaviest crustaceans. Only the Japanese spider crab, a species you’ll find at Sobela Ocean Aquarium, weighs more in the crab world.
A male will develop the large pincer claw that is seen on the Zoo’s crab residents. Their pinch force has been measured to be about 90 pounds per square inch (psi). For comparison, the average human arm breaks at around 80-100 psi.
The Tasmanian king crab has been classified as “vulnerable” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), primarily due to overfishing. By choosing sustainable seafood, you can help this amazing species and so many others. Visit seafoodwatch.org to find a comprehensive guide on the best choices when it comes to sustainable seafood!
Nanas Update
Nanas may still be small in size, but this 1-1/2 -year-old orangutan is growing in personality by the day! If you have been to Orangutan Canopy recently, you might have noticed that Nanas is getting quite confident in his climbing skills. While mother Josie is still close at hand, Nanas now feels comfortable to explore and use his incredible adaptations to climb on just about everything in the habitat.
His care team says Nanas carefully observes his family and is picking up on natural orangutan behaviors. He is also starting to learn how to voluntarily participate in health checkups with his caregivers and knows how to present his mouth, head, and belly for inspection. While Nanas still nurses, he is also beginning to eat a regular adult diet and currently weighs approximately 15 pounds.
The next time you’re at the Zoo, see if you can spot this independent youngster at play!
Willow Update
Over the summer and fall months, guests have been delighted to see Willow growing in height and confidence! Since being born on June 30, this young Masai giraffe has been exploring more and more, but mother Makali is never too far from her 7-1/2-feet-tall daughter.
As Willow has become accustomed to the entire herd, she is now lovingly called the “resident hair stylist” by the care team because of her love of grooming. If one of her elder giraffes is relaxing on the ground, Willow enjoys standing by them and grooming their manes.
The giraffe herd does require a feels-like temperature of 70 degrees before they have access to the public habitat. As we roll into the colder months, the herd will often be keeping warm and cozy behind the scenes. Be sure to follow our social media channels for updates on Willow and the other giraffes!
Zoo Going Smoke-Free
New Kopje Taking Shape
Much has occurred in the kopje (pronounced similar to "copy") area of the Zoo since construction began near the African lion habitat this fall. Demolition as been completed as well as all underground work, including plumbing for restrooms and foundation work for the new restroom building and behind-the-scenes area for the new caracal habitat. Demolition was primarily done to the pathways and rockwork in that area, as we endeavor to make the walking area wider and more accessible. COST of Wisconsin, who specializes in fabricating artificial rockwork, is currently on site rebuilding those areas to form the new rock face that makes up a kopje, defined as a small, rocky hill often on the African veldt. The indoor lion viewing area was also removed in order to build a better, more accessible replacement early next year. Soon, walls will begin to go up on the new restroom building, which will also include a mother’s room.
The project is expected to be completed in late spring 2025. The pathway is currently open through the area so you can see the changes as they occur, and will remain open as long as it is safe for guests to traverse. Animals in that area are staying behind the scenes under the watchful eyes of their animal care teams, and will remain there until their habitats are ready. Continue watching for construction updates on our social media pages and for alerts at kansascityzoo.org should the pathway needs change.
To provide a safer and healthier environment for guests, employees, and animals, the Zoo will be going smoke-free on January 1, 2025. Both cigarettes and vaping will be prohibited on Zoo grounds and our current designated smoking areas will be eliminated; Missouri law already prohibits smoking marijuana in public places such as the Zoo. For those who wish to smoke during their visit, all guests are always welcome to leave the Zoo and return that same day but must get stamped at the entry gate on their way out. All smoking must be done off of Zoo grounds.
“This is something that we have discussed for many years and we just felt that it is time,” says Sean Putney, executive director/CEO. “While we want to be inclusive to as many as possible, second-hand smoke is a real health threat for other visitors, Zoo staff, and even the animals in our care. Smoking can also be a safety hazard to Zoo property and causes additional trash for our grounds team.”
We are looking forward to an even healthier new year at the Zoo!
Events Calendar
December
GloWild:
Scan the code or visit kansascityzoo.org/events for more information on each event.
Interested in being a vendor or sponsor at one of these events? Email askthezoo@fotzkc.org
Legends & Lore Presented by Saint Luke's Friday, September 6 - Sunday, December 29 | Hours vary
The GloWild lantern festival is dazzling once again, featuring a new “Legends & Lore” theme! Visitors will be treated to an enchanting nighttime journey through two distinct loops: the adventure loop, with elements like Atlantis and dinosaurs, and the fantasy loop, which includes an enchanted forest and a fairy garden. Plus, Santa is here, and other fun holiday activities! kansascityzoo.org/glowild
FOTZ Bring A Friend Free Weekend
Friday, November 29 - Sunday, December 1
9:30am - 4:00pm
The more, the merrier, on Thanksgiving weekend at the Zoo! Friends of the Zoo (FOTZ) members are invited to bring up to FOUR guests per membership to receive complimentary admission Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Penguin Marches
Friday, November 29
Saturdays and Sundays through February 2025 11:00am
See the penguins up close as they take a stroll in front of Helzberg Penguin Plaza.
Meet Santa at the Zoo
Saturday, December 7 - Sunday, December 8
Santa and Mrs. Claus will be making a special stop at the Zoo 10am-3pm in North Pole Village near Sheep Station. Be sure to bring your camera to capture those candid moments. You can also catch our cold weather penguins as they take a walk in the chilly outdoor air during our Penguin March at 11am.
Zoo Year's Eve
Tuesday, December 31 | 10:00am - 12:00pm
Roar in the Noon Year at the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium! Why wait until midnight to celebrate the New Year? We are kicking off the party early with a countdown to noon! Some of the animals will also be receiving special themed enrichment.
Your Holiday Gift Guide
Give the Gift of the Zoo!
We have the perfect holiday gift to create memories year-round! Purchase a 2024 Premier Family Membership as a gift and receive a free dinosaur plush to put under the tree! Your friends and family will be able to enjoy the Zoo throughout the year, partake in unlimited rides, and receive discounts on retail and concessions. Plus, it will include the Dinosaurs Around the World exhibit next summer!
Adopt a Wild Child
Give a gift this year that gives back. In addition to pleasing your loved one this holiday season, your purchase plays a vital role in supporting the wellbeing of nearly 10,000 animals in our care, including your selected "Wild Child". The $80 package includes a framed photo of your adopted animal, a huggable plush friend, a detailed animal fact sheet, a certificate for holiday fudge from Deja Zoo, and a personalized adoption certificate, creating the ultimate holiday gift! You can choose from Nuniq the polar bear, Marlin the penguin, Matti & Owin the sea otters, Tortellini the sea turtle, and Ruw the chimpanzee with her special frog friend. To ensure delivery by Christmas, all orders must be placed by Monday, December 16. You may also choose a pick-up option and that deadline is Monday, December 23. Scan the QR code or visit www.kansascityzoo.org/aawc to adopt today!
Education Programs
For more information, call 816-595-1765 or email education@fotzkc.org.
School's Out Camps
School's out! Join us at the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium for an exciting day filled with activities to learn about your favorite animals. These single-day and multiple-day camps are available for ages 5 - 12.
Single-day cost: $65 per camp (FOTZ members get a 10% discount) kansascityzoo.org/camp/schools-out-camp
Overnights
Spend the night at the Zoo! It is the WILDEST place in town for an overnight adventure! Want an experience and memories that will last a lifetime? We are now booking private overnights. Stay in Helzberg Penguin Plaza, Sobela Ocean Aquarium, or the Zoo Learning Center, then take a night hike through the Zoo and enjoy a movie. Feeling more adventurous? Pitch your tent for one-of-a-kind camping in our Outback or African campgrounds! Overnights are scheduled for Friday or Saturday nights only. kansascityzoo.org/overnights
Sponsored by
Host your event at the Zoo!
The Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is the purr-fect location for your next event. See the Rent the Zoo section at kansascityzoo.org to learn more about company outings, evening rentals, birthday parties, and more. Contact Group Sales at 816-595-1210 or at groupsales@fotzkc.org for all event options.
Dinosaurs Around the World
Get ready for DINO-mite fun that will make the whole family roar next summer! From May 1 through August 31, 2025, prepare to be whisked back to a different time on Earth at Dinosaurs Around the World presented by Imagine Exhibitions.
This attraction will be included free with Zoo admission and Friends of the Zoo memberships as life-size animatronic dinosaurs are located throughout the “topside” of the Zoo within easy walking distance from the front gate. Guests will experience the mighty Tyrannosaurus rex of North America, the gigantic amphibious Spinosaurus from Africa, the bizarre duck-billed Hadrosaur from the lush island environment of Jurassic Antarctica, and much more! Additional dinosaur fun and activities will also be available at the Zoo all summer long.
Stay tuned for more details in 2025!
In
Memoriam
Benjamin
The Zoo is mourning the passing of 8-year-old red panda Benjamin due to chronic kidney and heart disease. Although he was only a resident of the KCZoo since March, he became a fast favorite of his care team. Benjamin’s care specialists remember him as being a “rockstar trainer,” who was always motivated to learn new behaviors and participate in sessions with the team. Benjamin’s notable milestones included voluntarily participating in medical behaviors like topical medications, scale training, and injections. Benjamin sired cubs at his previous facility and was in the process of building a relationship with his habitat companion, Kashmir. Benjamin was an amazing ambassador for his endangered species and will be dearly missed.
Kevin
One of Sobela Ocean Aquarium’s most vibrant and colorful winged residents, Kevin the toucan, passed away in May due to liver failure from iron storage disease. Eleven-year-old Kevin was known for his love of grapes and his tendency to be very protective of his habitat and mate, Winnie. He will lovingly be remembered by his care team for keeping them on their toes during habitat cleaning sessions. Kevin will be missed by guests and staff alike.
Scotty
Scotty, a beloved prehensile-tailed porcupine, was euthanized on September 5 after chronic kidney failure. Born on January 4, 2003, Scotty was a reserved girl who typically kept to herself, but many will fondly remember this nocturnal porcupine dozing off in her nesting box. Occasionally, she might even come down to groom her habitat companion, Ripple the capybara! Scotty loved corn on the cob, bananas, and dates, and she will be remembered for her sweet and gentle personality. She will be dearly missed by all.
Lion’s Pride Society
The Lion's Pride Society was founded in 2011 to recognize and honor the valuable contributions of friends who express their commitment to our mission by including the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium in their estate plans. Over the years, the "pride" has grown strong. We invite you to join us!
Our benefits include:
Introduction at the Friends of the Zoo (FOTZ) Annual Meeting
Invitations to sneak previews and exhibit openings
Invitations to estate-planning seminars
Frequent mention in the Expeditions newsletter
Create your legacy
With a little planning, you have the opportunity to ensure that future generations are able to experience the adventure and wonder of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. By including a charitable gift within your overall estate and financial plans, you can provide your support far into the future.
Why Barb is giving...
"The Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium gives me hope for the future of this planet. By allowing us to see and experience animals in natural habitats and by educating us about our connectedness with these animals, the zoo inspires us to conserve the earth for future generations."
– Barb Sherer, Lion’s Pride Society member
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Thank you to all of our 1909 Lion’s Pride Society members for their continued support.
Anonymous
Jan Armstrong
Raymond & Nancy Benoist
Kenneth Campbell
Dorothy & Joe Carlisle
Marlee Carroll
Teri Chandler
Debbie & James Eads
Jeanne Hays
Betty & Leonard Hershman
Louise & Gary Hicks
Sarah Hopkins
Harold Hudson
Joanna Ioannidis
Richard Jensen
Audrey Keairnes
Patricia Keairnes
Gayle & Bruce Krigel
Judith Layton
Kay Lippincott
Leslie & John Martin
Kentucky McDaniel & Carol Murphy
Patrick & Amy McHenry
Mary & Michael McNiel
Anne & Sam Mollet
Kathryn Morgan
Debra Myers
Elizabeth Norton
Sean & Cyndie Putney
Brad Redburn
Marjorie Roberts
Debra & Michael Ryder
Dianne Schmidt
Don Shanks
Barb Sherer
Kathy Smith
Linda & Harlan Smith
T.J. Snyder
Juston Taylor
Grace Thornton
Sandie & John Valentine
Frank & Gerry Victor
Jean & Don Wagner
Richard Wells
Barb & Randy Wisthoff
Contact Richard Wells, donor relations manager, at richardwells@fotzkc.org or 816-595-1217 or visit kansascityzoo.org/planned-giving to explore the many ways you can extend your legacy at the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium for years to come.
We are grateful for the continued generosity of our sponsors. Thank you for your steadfast support that helps make our world-class Zoo & Aquarium possible.
If your company would be interested in sponsoring an animal or area of the Zoo, please contact lisafickenscher@fotzkc.org. Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium sponsorship is a great way to increase visibility for your business and support the incredible work that our Zoo does year-round.
6800 Zoo Drive | Kansas City, MO 64132 816-595-1234 | KansasCityZoo.org
9:30am – 4pm
We’re on a mission to improve our map! Our new digital map shows realtime updates about which animals are on habitat, as well as expanded info about attractions and amenities. If you’re at the Zoo, open the map on your mobile phone to view your own location as you move through the park, to make finding your way around easier.
kansascityzoo.org/zoo-map