WILD Magazine Summer 2026

JULY 2026 VOLUME 29, ISSUE 3

P U B L I S H E D F O R F R I E N D S O F R O G E R W I L L I A M S PA R K Z O O

Welcome!

By Stacey Johnson

Executive Director, RWP Zoo and RI Zoological Society

The third week of July is National Zookeeper Week, a time to recognize the dedicated professionals who care for the animals at Roger Williams Park Zoo every day. Our animal care team does

High school students can take additional steps toward a career in animal care: • Continue reading and learning about wildlife, conservation and animal biology.

far more than prepare diets and maintain habitats. They

• Meet with a guidance counselor to identify classes that will

monitor animal health, provide environmental enrichment,

prepare you for college programs related to animals and

conduct training, educate guests and help ensure the

the environment.

highest standards of animal wellbeing.

• Volunteer or work at an animal shelter, veterinary hospital,

So, do you want to be a zookeeper? It's never too early to start learning.

horse stable, zoo or aquarium to gain hands-on experience

If you or your child are exploring career options, being

If becoming a zookeeper remains a goal in college:

a zookeeper may sound exciting. The profession can be

• Take courses in biology, animal science, veterinary

both rewarding and challenging. Zookeepers are often described as dedicated to animals, conservation and the environment.

and a realistic understanding of the profession.

medicine, environmental studies and related life sciences.

Many colleges now offer programs specifically designed for zoo careers.

What does a career as a zookeeper entail?

Let's find out.

• Pursue internships or part-time jobs at veterinary hospitals,

For elementary school students interested in working with

• Gain as much practical experience as possible. Zookeeper

animals, there are many fun ways to learn more about the profession: • Visit a local zoo, aquarium or natural history museum.

• Watch animal care professionals at work and ask questions about their jobs.

• Read books and magazines, watch nature programs and explore websites about wildlife and nature.

• Join a science club, participate in scouting activities or

wildlife rehabilitation centers, zoos or aquariums.

positions are competitive, and most candidates need significant hands-on experience working with animals before securing a full-time role.

While becoming a zookeeper is often the first career people think of at a zoo, it is just one of many opportunities. Roger Williams Park Zoo also relies on educators, veterinarians, hospitality professionals, mechanics, technicians, construction experts, administrators, graphic designers, fundraisers, communications specialists, horticulturists, and many others.

attend educational programs at a zoo or aquarium.

• Observe wildlife in your backyard, on a hike or in a park.

Record what you see and research questions that arise from your observations.

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As we celebrate National Zookeeper Week, we also recognize the entire Roger Williams Park Zoo team whose talents and dedication help make the Zoo a special place every day.

Special Events at the Zoo This Summer

Closes August 9th Don’t miss this chance to have a big

A Bug’s World Sensory Morning - July 5th

adventure as a tiny explorer in A Bug’s

A special sensory-friendly morning an hour

World. See the outdoors like an insect

before the bug’s trail opens to the public.

does, where blades of grass tower

Stop by and visit our sponsor ABA Centers

overhead, ants are the size of dogs,

of Rhode Island at their table!

and butterflies feel larger than life.

July 4th $4 Admission!

To celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, tickets are priced at $4 for July

A Bugs World Family Night - August 8th Experience the Zoo and magic of A Bug’s

included with Zoo admission, a

World after hours for nearly half the price

separate ticket is required.

of daytime admission.

4th only (ticket is not valid any other day).

Saturday, July 11th Embrace your wild side and Party with Pride, an

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Party with Pride (21+ only)

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A Bug’s World experience is not

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Brew at the Zoo (21+ only)

unforgettable evening

August 29th

celebrating the LGBTQIA+

Tap into your wild side at Brew at the Zoo on Saturday,

community! This 21+ event

August 29, an adult-only evening event featuring hundreds

invites queer adults and

of craft beers, hard seltzers, ready-to-drink cocktails, and

their allies to experience

new this year, it will also offer a selection of wine. Sample

the Zoo after hours. Get

beverages from dozens of local, regional, and national

ready for a fantastic lineup of entertainment and drag

breweries, wineries, and brands while enjoying live music,

performances! Discover fascinating “Nature is Queer”

animal encounters, and more. As Rhode Island’s largest

animal chats, alongside pride-themed animal enrichment

outdoor beer festival, Brew at the Zoo offers a one-of-a-

activities. Enjoy Zoo-themed cocktails at pop-up cash bars

kind night of drinks, wildlife, and entertainment.

scattered throughout the Zoo.

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ART with a Purpose:

Celebrating the Winners of the 9th Annual Endangered Species Youth Art Contest We are absolutely thrilled to announce the winners of our 9th Annual Endangered Species Youth Art

2026 JUDGES’ CHOICE WINNER:

Contest!

Young artists from across the Northeast blew us away with over 400 stunning submissions, showcasing incredible creativity to raise awareness for the world's most threatened and endangered wildlife.

From vibrant mountainous cloud forests with endangered red pandas to stunning portraits of apex predators on the brink of extinction, these submissions did more than just showcase artistic skill, they told powerful stories.

Coinciding with Endangered Species Day on May 15,

Olivia Liu (Grand Cayman blue iguana, 6-8 grade)

these inspiring masterpieces don't just celebrate the next generation of conservation advocates, they also ignite a powerful reminder of why we must protect these creatures and their wild homes.

We want to extend a massive, heartfelt thank you to our co-partner, Providence Jerry's Artarama, for their continuous support and commitment to nurturing young artists.

The winning artwork is officially on display at the Zoo’s Big Backyard exhibit. We highly encourage everyone to walk through and witness these works of art firsthand.

9-12

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9-12 Grade Winner: Izzy McCarthy (mountain bongo)

Grade 9-12 Honorable Mention: Catalina Warner (blue-billed curassow)

6-8

6-8 Grade Winner: Lucien Bourque (pygmy hippo)

Grade 6-8 Honorable Mention: Andrea Zhang (cerulean warbler) – tied

Grade 6-8 Honorable Mention: Emma Yoonji Zheng (leopard) – tied

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3-5 Grade Winner: Eva Zhao (Javan leopard)

Grade 3-5 Honorable Mention: Zihe Lu (red panda)

K-2

K-2 Grade Winner: Jackson Oldham (rainforest frogs)

Grade K-2 Honorable Mention: Tiffany Liang (red panda)

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Summer in Roger Williams Park: Explore, Discover & Connect Summer at Roger Williams Park has something for all ages! The Gateway Center, Museum of Natural History & Planetarium, and Botanical Center invite visitors of all ages to experience a season filled with nature, science, culture, and community.

At the Gateway Center, families can enjoy a variety of free

At the Museum of Natural History & Planetarium, visitors can

community events through the Summer Event Series, including

explore exhibits on wildlife, geology, and astronomy while

Zoomobile animal encounters, the South Providence Gallery

enjoying family-friendly activities and daily planetarium shows.

Tour, The Closet Comeback Workshop, and the Broad Street

This summer, discover Rhode Island’s rich natural history

Food Truck Matinee. The Gateway also hosts the Fitness in the

and night skies through Summer Shellabration, a celebration

Parks program, arts activities, cultural workshops, and the new

inspired by America’s upcoming 250th anniversary. Visitors

Summer Camp Pop-Up Series, which introduces children to

can also enjoy Outdoor Adventures in Roger Williams Park,

the many attractions of Roger Williams Park through hands-on

offering opportunities to explore nature. Interested in local

learning and outdoor exploration.

history? Visit the Betsey Williams Cottage during free open houses on Fridays from 10 am - 3 pm.

The Botanical Center offers a summer of discovery inside New England's largest public indoor botanical garden.

Whether you're discovering tropical plants, meeting live

Visitors can participate in Greenhouse Yoga, Tai Chi, Animal

animals, exploring local history, enjoying live music, or

Encounters, Storytime with Chris, and Wee-One Wednesdays

participating in family-friendly activities, Roger Williams Park

for young children. Garden enthusiasts can enjoy the Books

offers countless opportunities to learn, connect, and make

& Banter Book Club, Soil Testing Clinics, and a special Bonsai

lasting memories all summer long. Join us and experience

Workshop, while live entertainment returns with Garden Jazz

everything the Park has to offer.

performances and the family-favorite Toe Jam Puppet Band Kids Concert.

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More information at providenceri.gov/parks/rwp-gateway/

Rhode Island’s home for local news and storytelling.

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Species Spotlight

Capybara

Fun Fact: Did you know the capybara is the largest living rodent on Earth?

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A fully grown capybara can weigh up to 140 pounds.

You’ve met our newest resident, Carsie the capybara! Now, let’s get to know more about this interesting rodent species.

Semi-Aquatic Adaptations Native to the lush wetlands, marshes, and dense forests of Central and South America, capybaras have some incredible adaptations that make them built for a semi-aquatic life. This

Conservation Currently, capybaras are listed as a species of Least Concern on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, indicating that their global population is stable.

However, they still face threats of water pollution, habitat loss from deforestation and over-hunting from humans.

Social Structure

means they split their time living on land and swimming in

In the wild, capybaras are

the water. Capybaras have partially webbed feet that help

social animals that form

them power through rivers and swamps. Their eyes, ears

close-knit herds of 10 –

and nostrils are positioned high on their heads. This allows

40 individuals. While they

capybaras to swim through the water, with most of their

don’t mind being alone,

bodies safely submerged, while they continue to breathe

they often prefer being

and watch for predators.

in social groups. Capybaras use a system of vocalizations,

Unique Diet To keep up with front teeth that never stop growing, capybaras constantly munch on tough grasses and river plants to wear them down. They also have a unique way of getting the most out of their food: coprophagy, the practice of eating their own morning droppings. Because fibrous plants are so difficult to break down, passing them through their digestive system a second time allows capybaras to absorb extra protein and beneficial microbes they missed the first time around.

including barks, whistles and grunts to communicate, alert the herd and keep track of their pups. Because they are famously “chill” animals, they also get along well with other species like birds, turtles and small monkeys.

Carsie, our capybara, is currently living alone due to a previous experience where he was attacked and injured by other capybaras and is now fearful of them. We are currently exploring companionship options for him. Visit Carsie in the Faces of the Rainforest building and see some of his incredible adaptations in action!

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Donor Highlight: Meg Ferguson There is no request too unique for Meg Ferguson. From selecting bespoke spirits featured at Whisky & More for Wildlife to providing tasty bovine treats for our cheetahs,

Meg Ferguson (right) with Irene Tan (left) at Whisky & More for Wildlife on May 21, 2026.

Meg always delivers exactly what the Zoo needs.

For more than three decades, Meg’s dedication to the Zoo has been demonstrated in countless ways. As owner of the local Broadwall Farm, Meg shares her expertise in cattle care and recently provided feedback for our new Bison yard and shade structure. Meg recommended reinforced fencing and barn walls – bison calves can be tough on habitat infrastructure! – and helped us plan for the arrival of three new bison into our herd.

A cat lover, Meg was instrumental in opening the Zoo’s new Catio. Thanks to her support, four new feline friends were welcomed to the Zoo, serving as ambassadors of safe outdoor time for domestic cats. In recognition of her generosity, one of our first residents was named in her honor: Ferguson, lovingly called Fergie.

Meg’s passion extends beyond animal care to building meaningful community connections. Inspired by her friendship with whisky sommelier Irene Tan, she helped bring Whisky & More for Wildlife to the Zoo. What began as an intimate gathering has grown into an annual tradition, uniting animal lovers and spirits enthusiasts alike in support of 9

conservation.

Meg Ferguson (left) with keeper Diana (right) meeting Ferguson “Fergie” in the new Catio.

Year after year, Meg has guided the event’s growth while keeping its purpose at heart. Proceeds have supported initiatives from habitat enhancements for Nutmeg the bison, to the care of servals Velma and Zephyr, and the extension of the American Burying Beetle repopulation program. Her leadership continues to ensure the event raises vital funds that directly benefit our animals and mission.

The Zoo is grateful for Meg’s leadership as Secretary of the Board of Trustees, and for the knowledge, generosity, and dedication she brings to our community. Her thoughtful guidance and hands-on involvement have shaped the spaces our animals call home and enriched the experiences that connect our visitors to our mission. Meg’s commitment ensures that the Zoo’s mission and animals are always at the forefront, today and for years to come.

NATIONAL ZOOKEEPER WEEK July 19 – July 25 During National Zookeeper Week, we pause to celebrate the heartbeat of our zoo: the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly behind the scenes and on the front lines every single day.

Zookeepers perform the vital, hands-on work that keeps wildlife conservation alive. They are more than caretakers; they are scientists, conservationists, and advocates. From noticing the tiniest shifts in an animal's behavior to designing clever enrichment that keeps minds sharp, Zookeepers do this all while inspiring the next generation of animal lovers. Their dedication ensures that the animals in our care thrive, beautifully bridging the gap between global preservation efforts and our local community.

To our incredible zookeepers: thank you for the early mornings, the late nights, and the unwavering devotion you give to every creature under your care. From caring for the smallest reptiles to the largest mammals, we see your hard work, we honor your endless passion, and we appreciate you more than words can express!

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Spreading Our Wings for Local Wildlife This spring, the Zoo successfully completed its series of Spread Your Wings events, aimed at raising awareness about the vital importance of planting native species for our local wildlife. Taking place at both the Zoo and Carousel Village, these events connected the community with a direct conservation action to help spread native plants across the state - because together, we can make a bigger impact!

Across all events, 88 participants took the pledge to become Habitat Heroes, committing not only to planting native but also to reducing pesticide use and spreading awareness about supporting local wildlife.

As a thank you and to get them started on their journey, each pledgee received a free native plant.

These new Habitat Heroes join a national network tracking the collective impact of native planting efforts. Together, the program has distributed more than 800 native plants across the United States this year!

Ready to make a difference in your own backyard?

For more information on how to start your native plant garden, visit our website: rwpzoo.org/birdfriendly/

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CHECK OUT THE Habitat Hero dashboard here 

Talkin’

Takin

After establishing foundational behaviors such as her bridge, reinforcement, target, and station, Bri started to introduce a second target for Ellie to press her shoulder onto. As Ellie became proficient, the target was phased out and a capped needle and syringe were introduced. This spring Bri was able to collaborate with the vet department for Ellie’s annual exam and hoof trim. Ellie leaned into the needle and received an anesthetic injection in her shoulder. Because of this we avoided Ellie getting potentially excited (making it harder for the medications to take effect), we could confirm 100% of the medication was received, and she had the smoothest induction and recovery we have ever achieved with her. Next is a scale behavior and a foot curl for hoof care!

When we talk about the animals in our care it is easy for us to assign personality traits to those animals. Often these can influence what we believe the animals are capable of.

It is never too late for an animal to learn something new – Ellie was 9 years old when she learned the injection behavior!

“Nervous, stubborn, smooth brained, lazy, too young, too old, pushy, bossy", are all labels that have been assigned to animals when we have talked about what they are capable of (or not) or excusing why a training session didn’t go as planned or wasn’t attempted at all.

It is not uncommon for people to look at hoofstock (like takin, bison, farm animals etc.) and presume they are not smart, can’t learn or are unmotivated. On top of that, takin have a reputation for being aggressive, short fused, temperamental and too dangerous to work with.

Every label we assign and every excuse we make for the animals is settling for mediocrity. The truth is that animals will live up to, or down to our expectations. We want our animals to THRIVE, not simply survive.

Ellie takin and her trainer, Bri are an inspiring example to consider. Together they demonstrated just what can be accomplished when you set the expectation high, let behavior speak for itself and always strive to achieve more!

Bri and Ellie takin on the morning of Ellie’s first voluntary injection for anesthesia.

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PRESENTED BY

assadors

Pamela W. Heffernan Co-Chair

Presenting Sponsor

ue educational experience where guests can improve their significantly to the conservation of our earth’s animals, plants udience to act as responsible environmental stewards.

at

.

Zachary Remson Sara Slahetka Tempie Thompson Lauren Ustaszewski Eric Weiner

Saturday, June 29, 2024

Judy Lockard Beth Mattera Damaris Messina John H. Mullen Jack Murray Ron Patalano

nd Zoological Society and is owned by the City of Providence.

at

Saturday, June 29, 2024 Elephant Entourage

Roger Williams Park Zoo ovidence, RI 02907 rwpzoo.org

Snow Leopard League Janci Foundation Dominic Ruscetta Family Trust

PRESENTED BY

Bison Brigade Domenic & Sandy Coletta

Betsey Kilmartin

Joanne M. Quinn S

Tree Kangaroo Crew Arthur & Catch Bank Newport The Beacon Mutual Insurance Company

Cherry & Scott Chun Coastline Trust Company Dimeo Construction Company First Hartford Realty Corp.

Parsons Capital Management, Inc. The Philmoney Trust Wave Federal Credit Union

Gibbon Gang Del’s Lemonade / Anthony DePalma Delta Dental of Rhode Island

Sarah Denby Fast Signs The Glocker Family

Happy Birthday Mom! (Take 2) The Mayforth Group Miles River Direct

Narragansett Brewing Company Page & Parlour Partridge Snow & Hahn LLP

Tortoise Troop

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Nancy J. Allen Anchor Forensic Pathology Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Bock Foundation Jessica & Peter Chaffee Eastern Ice Ferestien Feed & Farm Supply, Inc. Meg Ferguson General Environmental Services

Jim & Lexy Hager Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Pam & Bill Heffernan KPMG LLP Lahlaf Geotechnical Consulting, Inc. Patrick T. LeBeau Liberty Cedar, Inc. Mark & Chris The Nedder Family

North-Eastern Tree Service, Inc. Pier Fish Company Ann Potter Karen & Stephen Prest The Raytas Paige Robinson & Chris Buttermelon Roxanne Beretta - RE/MAX SDS Disposal, Inc. Ted & Sue Seager

Althea & Bailey Shaheen Signature Printing Elizabeth Taylor-Samos Zachary & Abigail Trayers Michelle Viveiros & Brian Chaignot Thomas Watson & Carlo Oddo David & Jill Wolff Woodlawn Gardens

Thank you for supporting Zoobilee - Party With A Purpose!

A special thank you to our sponsors, volunteers, and guests for making the 34th annual Zoobilee Party With a Purpose on June 27th such a success – over $250,000 was raised to support the Zoo’s unique education and conservation efforts!

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Kids’ Corner

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Click here to download and print

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Upcoming Events at the Zoo & Carousel

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR ANNUAL MEDIA SPONSORS!

JULY • ZOO HOURS: Daily from 9 am to 4 pm • CAROUSEL HOURS: Daily 11 am to 6 pm • CONNECTION CORNER: Daily 10am to 3:30pm • 4: Free Saturday for Providence Residents • 4: $4 admission for 4th of July • 5: Bug’s Sensory Friendly Morning sponsored by ABA Centers 8 am – 9 am • 11: Party with Pride • 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Food Truck Fridays at Carousel Village

AUGUST

Roger Williams Park Zoo is supported and managed by the Rhode Island Zoological Society and is owned by the City of Providence Editorial Roger Williams Park Zoo Department of Marketing and Public Relations Corrie Ignagni Vicki Scharfberg Maxine Colvin

Designer Sara Beatrice Tandem Designworks Photo Credits Roger Williams Park Zoo

WILD is an online publication of the Rhode Island Zoological Society, Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence, Rhode Island 02907-3659 For membership information call (401) 785-3510 x375 or visit rwpzoo.org.

• ZOO HOURS: Daily from 9 am to 4 pm • CAROUSEL HOURS: Daily 11 am to 6 pm • CONNECTION CORNER: Daily 10am to 3:30pm • 1: Free Saturday for Providence Residents • 1: Breakfast with the Elephants • 8: A Bug’s World Family Night • 9: Final day of A Bug’s World • 29: Brew at the Zoo • 7, 14, 21, 28: Food Truck Fridays at Carousel Village

SEPTEMBER • ZOO HOURS: Daily from 9 am to 4 pm • CAROUSEL HOURS: Daily 11 am to 6 pm • CONNECTION CORNER: Daily 10am to 3:30pm • 5: Free Saturday for Providence Residents and Community Tabling

2026 RHODE ISLAND ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY BOARD OF TRUSTEES Officers Patrick T. LeBeau, CFP,® Chair Sandra L. Coletta, Vice Chair Margaret Ferguson, Secretary Maribeth Q. Williamson, Treasurer

Ex-Officio Stacey Johnson Executive Director Rhode Island Zoological Society/ Roger Williams Park Zoo

Board of Trustees Nancy Allen Priya Banerjee, MD Martha H. Bower, JD, LtCol (Ret), USAF Douglas Caniglia Claire Carrabba, Esq Cheryl Cohen Sarah Denby Samir Dhamija Cindy Erickson Pamela W. Heffernan John Igliozzi, Esq Howard Merten, Esq Damaris Messina John H. Mullen Jack Murray Steven M. Parente Karen Silva EdD, CHE Dameian Slocum, Ed.D.

Wendy Nilsson Superintendent of Parks Providence Parks Department Chair Emerita Sophie F. Danforth* Trustees Emeriti Margaret E. Curran, Esq. Thomas P. Dimeo* Jocelin Hamblett James S. Harper III, VMD* Bradford B. Kopp Arthur D. Little Liz Rollins Mauran Nancy G.R. Moger Richard Nadeau Jane S. Nelson John J. Palumbo Cate M. Roberts Philip A. Segal, Jr. Robert F. Stoico* *deceased

• 6: Breakfast with the Zebras, Watusi, and Wildebeest • 11 & 12, 18 & 19, 25 & 26: Snore and Roar Overnights • 27: Breakfast with the Elephants • 4, 11, 18, 25: Food Truck Fridays (25 is final Food Truck Friday)

For more information visit rwpzoo.org

Please follow us online and share your photos and stories!

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