MEMBER’S MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER · DECEMBER · JANUARY · FEBRUARY
INSIDE
A Look at Great Ape Hearts Creating Sustainable Bird Populations Potential New Residents
WINTER 2015 / 2016
FEATURE STORY
A Look at
ZooTracks
A Sedgwick County Zoological Society magazine for members Publisher Sedgwick County Zoological Society, Inc. © 2015 All rights reserved. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Mark C. Reed Sedgwick County Zoological Society, Inc. PRESIDENT Mark C. DeVries TRUSTEES Stanley G. Andeel Kevin J. Arnel Jeff Bloomer Cindy Burgess Kelly E. Callen Dave Dahl Amy Ekerberg, DVM Sarita Francis Rhonda Fullerton Michael Herbert Ronald Holt Steven A. Houlik Dale Hoyer Dirk Jones Don J. Knappenberger Gary Kohn Dave Larson Marvin Long Buz Lukens Sam Marnick Bill Moore Scott Ochs Mary Lynn Oliver Martin W. Park Sue Pearce Karl Peterjohn Albert R. Sanchez Barry Schwan Don Sherman Collin Stieben Jay Smith Sue Watson Joe D. Williams
GREAT APE HEARTS
By Michelle Birket, Zookeeper
February is American Heart Month, the month when awareness of heart disease and its implications are front and center. However, heart disease isn’t just a killer in the month of February. It’s deadly all year round. It is a leading cause of death for both men and women. This disease doesn’t only exist in humans but is also a leading cause of death in great apes. Great apes share over 95% of our DNA and they are also subject Matt. Photo by Steve Jones. to the same disease processes as they age: cancer, arthritis, cataracts, osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease, to name a few. When a human begins experiencing signs of potential heart disease, their primary care doctor or cardiologist will order a series of tests to determine the exact problem and best course of action. Since great apes are so similar to us, the same types of tests will provide equally important diagnostic information. One of the most commonly used diagnostic tools is the ultrasound. An ultrasound can determine many things about the heart: overall appearance, heart rate, thickness of the heart walls, blood flow through the heart and any possible blockages or other potential cardiac problems. But an ultrasound machine can only read the information that it’s given from the heart itself. Most of the information we have about gorilla hearts and how they age, we have obtained from studying their hearts while they are under anesthesia
While that is good information, it’s not the most accurate.
MAGAZINE COMMITTEE Schanee Anderson Melissa Graham Ryan Gulker Scott Newland Steven Onken ON THE COVER— Matt, Western Lowland Gorilla Photo by Steve Jones
Zookeeper Michelle Birket and zoo veterinarian Dr. Heather Arens, begin the cardiac ultrasound. Photo by Cole Campbell
During these exams, we see what the heart is doing while under effects of the anesthetic medications and not what the heart does on its own. Some of the medications used to sedate a gorilla can slow heart and respiratory rates and change a heart’s overall appearance. Being able to conduct ultrasound while a patient is “awake” provides a more accurate picture of the heart’s intrinsic condition.
Gorilla hearts have been studied since the 1990’s. In the early 2000’s, it became apparent that there was a need to combine all the data gathered by various institutions. In 2010, a collaboration of animal care professionals and human medical providers established The Great Ape Heart Project (GAHP). Based out of Zoo Atlanta, this group’s main goal is to provide a central database for information on great apes and the cardiac disease process. As information is sent in from zoos around the world and data is collected, we gain a better understanding of the great ape heart and how heart disease develops. The Zoo’s accrediting association, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), also plays an advisory role to the zoo by use of an Ape Taxon Advisory Group (TAG). The AZA Ape TAG and the GAHP have been working closely together to facilitate the development of standards for managing geriatric apes.
are participating in the first step of a conscious cardiac ultrasound. This is not an event that can be achieved in short order. Gorillas are not born knowing how to sit still to allow pictures of their hearts to be taken.
Training this behavior takes time and patience on the part of both the gorillas and the keepers who train them. This first step, training a gorilla to present their chest is “captured” by rewarding them each time they touch their chest to the mesh and then pairing that behavior with a cue. It can also be “shaped” by rewarding them each time their chest moves closer to the mesh until eventually we only reward them when the chest is touching the mesh.
The Zoo has been providing information such as echocardiograms, cardiac data forms and blood samples to this study for many years. Most of the information has been as a result of studying great ape hearts while the animal was under anesthesia. We are excited to say that we have begun the steps necessary to provide information to the GAHP from animals that are fully awake and aware of their surroundings! Nine gorillas and three orangutans currently call the zoo home. Zoo keepers and veterinarians are training these apes for various tests which will provide feedback for their care as well as generate information for the study.
Zookeeper Michelle Birket rewards Barney for sitting patiently while the equipment is being set up. Photo by Cole Campbell
These great apes are being trained to present their chest to the mesh of their night bedrooms. By doing so they
Most sessions begin with basic behaviors to allow the gorilla to get comfortable with the session. Photo by Cole Campbell.
Next the keepers have to desensitize the gorillas to having their chest touched by a trainer’s hand which normally consists of a finger or two. Once the gorilla is comfortable with this and confident nothing bad will happen, keepers introduce the components of the ultrasound procedure: the ultrasound machine, the probes to be used, the gel, and of course, the vet. Since the gorillas typically only see our veterinarians when they are ill or have an injury, this can definitely be a challenging part of the process as they may associate the veterinarians with those conditions. The vets have begun accompanying the keepers during regular training sessions so that the gorillas begin to associate the veterinary staff with something positive; like a reward for good behavior. Developing this relationship is an important part of training for ultrasounds, but oddly enough, it’s not the hardest part. In the five years since the GAHP was established, nearly all zoos involved say that the most difficult part of the process has been to get the gorillas acclimated to the feeling the ultrasound gel on their 3
FEATURE chests. The gel is usually cold and its texture is definitely not something the gorillas are used to. Zoo keepers combined introducing the gel and the probe by starting with a modified piece of PVC to mimic the feel of the probe. Next, to acclimate them to the gel texture, they used items they were already used to seeing such as oranges (for the coolness) and mashed up bananas (for the texture).
However, like humans, gorillas all have certain things they just don’t like. Sometimes it’s a certain food and for others, it’s a certain sensation. During training, we have found some of the gorillas like to eat the gel (it’s water soluble and non-toxic) while others will tolerate it during a session; however, the minute the session is over, they wipe it off and smear it on the mesh or on the walls.
It was as important for the keepers to learn to work with the probe as it was for the gorillas. Plus, we wanted to make sure that if the gorillas made an attempt at grabbing the probe, it wouldn’t be with a brand new one that came with a big replacement cost! Keepers also discovered that obtaining and analyzing images of a heart takes a few minutes with the machine, which seems like an eternity. The probe may need to be moved around to obtain a certain view. This means keepers need to hold the gorillas’ attention for as long as 2-3 minutes. They have found that a juice bottle works very well for this. All of our efforts are starting to pay off.
On July 24, 2015, keepers and veterinarians were able to obtain the first ultrasound images of a gorilla heart with the full participation of the animal. Like humans, no two gorillas are built alike. Depending on the shape of the chest, the gorilla may need to be repositioned to get the best view of the heart. In this picture, Zookeeper Michelle Birket asks Barney to reach his hand higher, which will bring more of his chest closer to the mesh. Photo by Cole Campbell
All of the training at the Zoo is accomplished using positive reinforcement, which means we ask the animal to express a behavior and if they do, they get a reward. Generally, training is done with their usual favorite fruits: apples, oranges, bananas and grapes. For a behavior as important as a cardiac ultrasound, we use very high value rewards such as kiwi and yogurt. Keepers introduce an actual ultrasound probe once the gorillas know to present their chests, are accustomed to the sensations of touch and the feeling of the gel, and become used to seeing the vet and the other equipment. We were lucky enough to have an old probe that no longer worked donated to us for our first attempts with cardiac ultrasounds.
The first subject was a silverback male named Matt. He has the distinction of being a very laid-back gorilla so the keepers felt trying something new with Matt would not be scary for him. Additionally the keepers felt Matt had made the greatest strides in performing the behaviors needed to conduct the ultrasound. While the keepers are slowly incorporating ultrasound training with all of the gorillas and orangutans, each of them have a very distinct personality, and they learn at different speeds. This is part of the challenge that keeper enjoy. All of the animals at the Sedgwick County Zoo deserve the best care possible and conducting this type of training and research will help achieve that goal and will ultimately contribute to care of great apes worldwide.
Leaving A When you consider how the Sedgwick County Zoo has flourished during its brief history, what you might foresee for its future is nothing short of breathtaking. Today your Zoo is a resource not only to our community, but to the many rare and endangered species it works to protect; to the children of all ages who learn about the natural world here; to the thousands of visitors from throughout our region and the world who have made it the number one outdoor family tourist attraction in Kansas. But the Zoo’s rise to such prominence was no accident. Each progressive step we’ve taken was made possible through the generosity of people like you, people who recognize our unique role in not only protecting and preserving our natural treasures, but also in nurturing and sustaining this community treasure. Their charitable gifts have enabled us to realize our potential, to become what we are today. It is in this spirit of consideration, of commitment to nature and to posterity, that the Sedgwick County Zoo has established a program for planned giving. For people who care deeply about animals, about our community, about the future, here is an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy which honors both themselves and the things they care about. The manner in which planned gifts are established can also take different forms. Among the most common are: A BEQUEST: You simply specify in your will that certain assets you own (cash, property, stock) are to be left to the Zoo after your passing. A TRUST: A trust can be structured in different ways, depending on your objectives. Charitable Lead Trust: During the established term (usually the lifetime of the donor), this trust pays income to the Zoo. At the end of the term, the principal is returned to the donor or their beneficiaries. CHARITABLE REMAINDER TRUST: With this trust, the process is reversed: during its term (again, usually the lifetime of the donor), you or your beneficiaries receive regular income, as well as potential tax benefits. At the end of the term, the remainder of the trust assets passes to the Zoo. A GIFT OF LIFE INSURANCE: By designating the Zoo as owner and beneficiary of a personal life insurance policy, you can make a substantial gift for a relatively low cost. RETAINED LIFE ESTATE: You may make a gift of your house to the Zoo; you retain the right to live in the house for as long as you live, but upon your death, ownership passes to the Zoo. If you have chosen to remember the Sedgwick County Zoo in your estate planning, or if you would like further details on ways to include the Zoo in your plans, please contact:
Steve Onken Director of Development Telephone: (316) 266.8209 E-mail: sonken@scz.org 5
DISCOVERY
Education Program Schedule All classes are held in the Cargill Learning Center unless otherwise noted. Please visit www.scz.org for program information and descriptions of individual classes. Space is limited and pre-registration is required for classes. Please call 316-266-8213 to register. For the safety and enjoyment of everyone, no older or younger siblings, including infants, are allowed in age specific classes unless otherwise noted.
Class
Date
Topic
Wee Wigglers
Wed 11/4 Parrot Age: 12–23 mo. Wed 11/4 Parrot+ Members: $4 Thurs 11/5 Parrot Nonmembers: $6 Additional person: $2 Thurs 11/5 Parrot Tues 12/1 Snake +Siblings up to five years of age may also Tues 12/1 Snake attend these classes on Wed 12/2 Snake Wednesdays at 11:00 only. An additional fee of Wed 12/2 Snake+ $2 will be charged for any Wed 1/6 Salamander mobile child. Wed 1/6 Salamander+ Thurs 1/7 Salamander Thurs 1/7 Salamander Tues 2/2 Frog Tues 2/2 Frog Wed 2/3 Frog Wed 2/3 Frog+ Wed 3/2 Turtle Wed 3/2 Turtle + Thurs 3/3 Turtle Thurs 3/3 Turtle Wed 11/18 Parrot Wed 11/18 Parrot+ Age: 2–3 Members: $6 Thurs 11/19 Parrot Nonmembers: $8 Thurs 11/19 Parrot Additional person: $3 Thurs 11/19 Parrot+ +Siblings up to five Tues 12/15 Snake years of age may also attend these classes at Tues 12/15 Snake designated times only. Tues 12/15 Snake+ An additional fee of $3 will be charged for any Wed 12/16 Snake mobile child. Wed 12/16 Snake+ Wed 1/20 Salamander Wed1/20 Salamander+ Thurs 1/21 Salamander Thurs 1/21 Salamander Thurs 1/21 Salamander+ Tues 2/16 Frog Tues 2/16 Frog Tues 2/16 Frog+ Wed 2/17 Frog Wed 2/17 Frog+ Wed 3/23 Turtle Wed 3/23 Turtle+ Thurs 3/24 Turtle Thurs 3/24 Turtle Thurs 3/24 Turtle+
Owlet
Start–End Time
Class
10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Ewe & Me
10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. 2:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. 2:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. 2:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. 2:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. 2:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.
Date
Tues 11/10 Wed 11/11 Age: 4 – K Members: $8 Wed 11/11 Nonmembers: $10 $ Additional person: 4 Wed 12/9 + Younger siblings may Wed 12/9 also attend class on Wed. at 10:00 only. An Thurs 12/10 additional fee of $4 will be charged for any Tues 1/12 mobile child.
Wed 1/13 Wed 1/13 Wed 2/10 Wed 2/10 Thurs 2/11 Tues 3/8 Wed 3/9 Wed 3/9
Pajama Party Family of up to 5 members, children Age: 0–1st grade
Members: $17 Nonmembers: $19 Additional person: $5
Sat 11/7 Fri 11/13 Sat 12/5 Fri 12/11 Sat 1/2 Fri 1/8 Sat 2/6 Fri 2/12 Sat 3/5 Fri 3/11
Topic
Rockin' Rhinos 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Rockin' Rhinos+ 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Rockin' Rhinos 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Tropic 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Treasures+ Tropic 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 a.m. Treasures Tropic 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Treasures Animal 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Aerobics Animal 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Aerobics+ Animal 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Aerobics Unhuggables+ 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Unhuggables 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Unhuggables 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Lively Lizards 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Lively Lizards+ 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Lively Lizards 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Avian Patriots Avian Patriots Animal Toys Animal Toys How Do They Move? How Do They Move? Tricks Animals Play Tricks Animals Play Reptiles Reptiles
Sunset Safari
Tues 11/10 Parrot Age: 12 mo.–6 years Tues 12/8 Snake Members: $6 Tues 1/12 Salmander Nonmembers: $8 Additional person: $3 Tues 2/9 Frog Tues 3/8
Start–End Time
Turtle
6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Tot Tuesdays Age: 3–5 siblings welcome
Tues 11/24 Who's There? 10:30 a.m.– 11:00 a.m. Tues 12/22 No class due 10:30 a.m.– 11:00 a.m. to holiday
NO COST
Tues 1/26 Let it Snow
10:30 a.m.– 11:00 a.m.
Tues 2/23 Super No advance Salamanders 10:30 a.m.– 11:00 a.m. registration required. Tues 3/22 Colors and Camouflage
Class
ZOOper Kids Grades: 1–5 Members: $8 Nonmembers: $10
Junior Behind the Scenes Tours
Date
Topic
Start–End Time
1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Sat 11/14 "Bear"ly Getting By 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Sat 12/12 Animal Gift Givers Sat 1/9 Batten Down 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. the Hatches Sat 2/6 Love is in the Air 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Sat 3/5 Blooms & Buds 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Sat 3/12 Horticulture
Grades: 1–5
Members: $15 Nonmembers: $17 Includes up to five family members Additional person: $5
WOW
Grades: 1–5 2 day class: Members: $10 Nonmembers: $12
Date
Topic
Start–End Time
Wed 11/25 No program due to Senior holiday Wednesdays Active guests over 55 $4 per adult Pre-registration not required
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Wed 12/2 Holiday Party at the Art Museum Wed 1/13 Hair vs Fur and 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Everything in Between Wed 2/10 Online Dating…for 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Animals Wed 3/9 Master Gardener 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Social Hour
Fri 11/20 Wild Wines 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Fri 3/25 Cocktails with 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Ages 21+ the Creatures Members: $30 Sponsored by House of Schwan and Glazer's Non-members: $35
Grades: 1–5 Members: $8 Nonmembers: $10
Homeschool Expeditions
Class
Wed 11/18 The Science of 10:00 a.m. –11:00 a.m. Autumn Wed 12/2 Nature's Gifts 10:00 a.m. –11:00 a.m. Wed 1/6 Mmmmmm. 10:00 a.m. –11:00 a.m. Yummy! 10:00 a.m. –11:00 a.m. Wed 2/3 Here Kitty, Kitty, Kitty 10:00 a.m. –11:00 a.m. Wed 3/2 Are You Talking to Me? Wed 11/25 Thanksgiving 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Safari Mon –Fri Spring Fling 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 3/14–3/18
5 day class: Members: $145 Nonmembers: $160
Before & After Care for WOW class: 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. $15 for entire week
Wheeling Wild Club
5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. March 16 Every third Wednesday thru Family—must be on October 19 bicycle or attached wagon. Members: $30 Sponsored by Bicycle X-change 1 ride per month Nonmembers: $34 **Rides will not be made up if 1 ride per month inclement weather
Coffee Connections
Mon 11/2 Apes Devin Bailey 9:00 a.m. –10:00 a.m. Mon 12/7 Education Laura King 9:00 a.m. –10:00 a.m. Geared towards Mon 1/4 Guest Services 9:00 a.m. –10:00 a.m. adults but all Keith Gutierrez ages welcome Mon 2/1 To be announced 9:00 a.m. –10:00 a.m.
NO COST No advance registration required.
Get Into Nature
Geared towards families with young children but all ages welcome
Mon 3/7
To be announced
9:00 a.m. –10:00 a.m.
Sponsored by Spice Merchant
Tues 11/17 Backyard Feast
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Sat 11/21 Backyard Feast
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Cargill Learning Center Cargill Learning Center
Tues 12/15 Who Goes There? 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Sat 12/19 Who Goes There? 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Sat 1/16 Where Do They Go? 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Tues 1/19 Where Do They Go? 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. NO COST Tues 2/16 Hidden in Plain Site 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Sat 2/20 Hidden in Plain Site 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Pre-registration Tues 3/15 How the Wind Blows 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. required Sat 3/19 How the Wind Blows 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Registration Information:
1. Preregister by calling the Learning Center at 266-8213. 2. Pay over the phone by credit card OR fill out the form completely and mail with payment to 5555 Zoo Blvd., Wichita, KS 67212-1698. Registration is not complete until payment is received. We reserve the right to cancel any preregistration or to charge a $2 late fee to individuals whose payment is not received on time. Contact the education department by 4:00 p.m. the day prior to your class to be transferred to another class. Refunds will not be given. If we need to cancel class, we will notify registrants 48 hours in advance. For the safety and comfort of other participants, we reserve the right to refuse service to anyone with a fever or is noticeably sick.
Education Registration Form Please enclose form with payment and mail after you have preregistered. Student Name & Age
Class Title
Date
Membership No:
Total Fees:
Parent's Name:
Phone:
Address:
City:
Time
Fee
Zip:
7
DISCOVERY Class
Date
Backstage Pass Includes up to five family members, ages 5+ Members: $17 Nonmembers: $19 Additional people/ Individual fee: $8
Animal Encounter All ages
NO COST No advanced registration required. Classes may be canceled without notice
Topic
Sat 2/20 Vet Hospital
Start–End Time 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Mon 11/2 Above Ground 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Animals Tues 11/10 Underground 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Animals Wed 11/18 Animals in the 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Air Thur 11/26 No program due 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. to holiday Mon 12/7 Africa 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Tues 12/8 Australia 11:00 a.m. Wed 12/16 South America 11:00 a.m. Thur 12/24 No program due 11:00 a.m. to holiday
– 11:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Mon 1/4 Warm & Cuddly 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Tues 1/12 Summer Down 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Under Wed 1/20 Kansas Day
11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Thur 1/28 Mystery Animal 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Mon 2/1 Lizards
11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Tues 2/9 Lovey-Dovey
11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Wed 2/17 Tropics
11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Thur 2/25 Cats
11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Mon 3/7 March Hare
11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Tues 3/8 Red
11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Wed 3/16 Green
11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Thur 3/24 Yellow
11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Nocturnal Adventures A fun night without the camping equipment
If you're looking for an exciting activity for your scout, church, school group or family, but you don't want to mess with camping equipment, we've got exactly what you need. How about spending the night at the Zoo? You can invite the gorillas or tigers to your next sleepover and stay inside our Researcher's Tent in The Downing Gorilla Forest* or the Slawson Family Tiger Trek. Another option is to add the outdoor element into your sleepover, yet keep a roof over your head, as you sleep under the cover of the North American Prairie Overlook. You can stay inside the Cargill Learning Center where you have all the comforts of home yet room for the whole group to spread out. Participants need to bring a sack dinner, sleeping bag and overnight gear. Our overnight adventure starts at 6:00 p.m. in the Cargill Learning Center and the evening will include guided tours, an education experience, a fun craft, an animal encounter, and a bedtime snack. The next morning, the journey concludes with juice and a hike through the Zoo. All participants should plan to attend the entire event, 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 a.m. We are unable to accommodate those arriving late or those wishing to leave early. Fees are $25 per person regardless of membership status. There is a minimum of 15 participants. However, for bookings under 30 people, we reserve the right to combine groups similar in age and gender. A nonrefundable deposit of $150 is due at booking; the remainder will be paid on the night of your event. Please be advised that during evening hours, there is no guarantee you will see some of the animals. Choose your sleeping area: • Slawson Family Tiger Trek (maximum of 30 guests) • The Downing Gorilla Forest* (maximum of 60 guests) • North American Prairie Overlook • Cargill Learning Center *Please note that the Downing Gorilla Forest building contains latex. To schedule your Nocturnal Adventure, contact the education department at 266-8213 a minimum of two weeks in advance. Dates are limited, so call now!
FRIENDS & FAMILY
2014 Annual Report OPERATING SUPPORT:
Sedgwick County Donations & Grants Other Contributions
Other Income 13%
$5,330,498 $327,197 $127,370
Sedgwick County 45.9%
OPERATING REVENUE:
Memberships 13.2%
Admissions $1,897,350 Concessions $ $881,279 Memberships $1,530,260 Other Income: Zoobilee Promotional Events Education Programs Investment Income Miscellaneous
Concessions 7.6%
$979,753 $173,200 $148,766 $1,097 $207,424
TOTAL SUPPORT & REVENUE
Admissions 16.4%
$11,604,194
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Salaries & Benefits $6,942,791 Repairs & Maintenance $322,908 Utilities $610,169 Other: Promotions & Advertising $399,138 Animal Food $562,193 Other Supplies $562,601 Professional Services $96,750 Animal Purchases $14,214 Insurance $98,161 Contractual $328,847 Miscellaneous $578,305 Infrastructure & Equipment $239,271
TOTAL EXPENSES & INFRASTRUCTURE $10,755,348
Other Contributions 1.1%
Infrastructure & Equipment 2.2%
Donations & Grants 2.8%
Salaries & Benefits 64.6%
Other 24.5%
Utilities 5.7% Repairs & Maintenance 3%
TOTAL SUPPORT & REVENUE OVER (UNDER EXPENSES)* $848,846
*This reflects the amount of expense from prior year carry over funded for infrastructure and small capital projects.
9
ADVENTURE
Winter Wednesdays Every Wednesday
November 2015 through February 2016: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Grab your coats, throw on your mittens and head over to the Sedgwick County Zoo for Winter Wednesdays! Spend the day in the refreshing outdoors for $2.50 per person every Wednesday, November through February.
Admission is just $2.50 per person!
MAKE YOUR SHOPPING EASY! Now through December 31!
MEMBERSHIPS INCLUDE: FREE UNLIMITED VISITS FOR 1 YEAR GUEST PASSES TWO ZOOKEYS TONS OF WILD FUN!
87
MEMBERSHIPS STARTING AT
$
Season’s Treatings
Saturday, December 12: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Visit the Zoo to celebrate the holidays
Come learn firsthand what "animal enrichment" is all about while watching the animals receive special holiday-themed treats! A full schedule of the day’s events will be posted to the website soon. While you're here, stop by the Plaza Beastro for some hot chocolate, and don't forget to peruse the Gift Shop. It's a great place to purchase presents for the animal lovers on your list! The Gift Shop has great deals! Regular Zoo Admission applies. Members FREE with membership card and photo ID.
A HOLIDAY TRADITION Adopt the Sedgwick County Zoo elephant herd and receive an exclusive keepsake ornament to be enjoyed for years to come. The gift package also includes recognition inside the Zoo, plus a Zookeeper’s Animal Report.
CALL 266.8211 CLICK SCZ.ORG COME BY THE MEMBERSHIP OFFICE 5555 ZOO BLVD WICHITA KS 67212
Offer available through 12/31/2015
Children's Farms Festival:
Santa at the Barn Saturday, December 12 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
The barn is decorated and the animals have their stockings hung. Now they're awaiting the arrival of Santa! Come to the Zoo and visit with Santa, play with farm toys and catch animal demonstrations featuring animals found in a manger! Demonstration times are every half hour starting at 1:30 p.m. The last demonstration will be at 3:30 p.m. Join us for some holiday fun at the Farms!
Like Us. Follow Us. Watch Us. Pin Us. Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/SedgwickCountyZoo Follow us at Twitter: www.twitter.com/SedgwickCoZoo Watch us at YouTube: www.youtube.com/SedgwickCoZoo Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/sedgwickcountyzoo# Pin us on Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/sedgwickcozoo/ Watch us on Vine: vine.co/u/1061889894579920896
Regular admission applies. Members are free with membership card and photo ID
In Honor of Pets When a family pet passes away, it can be devastating to a family. The Zoo has a Pet Sympathy program that can help you let the family know you care by donating to the Sedgwick County Zoo in honor of their family pet. For a minimum donation of $5, the Zoo will send an acknowledgement to the family in honor of their furry family member. Funds donated go directly to the care of your Sedgwick County Zoo animals. The Pet Sympathy program is a simple way of letting someone know you care, while supporting your Sedgwick County Zoo animals.
For more information call 316-266-8211 or email us at ask@scz.org for more details. 11
CONSERVATION
Creating Sustainable Bird Populations By Scott Newland, Curator of Birds
A visit to the Tropics, Australian or South America exhibits allows guests to experience some amazing bird species from all around the globe. The variety and size of the bird population at the Sedgwick County Zoo ranks it among the best when compared to other Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited zoos. So, how is it possible that your Zoo can sustain such a wonderfully diverse group of birds? We call it the APF, short for Avian Propagation Facility. This special-use facility, which is off public display, was designed to house groups of birds, that you might see in the zoo exhibits, in homes where they have the opportunity to reproduce out of the public eye . The APF plays a role in the AZA initiative to maintain sustainable bird populations for zoos and aquariums for the future.
Historically, bird collections were built and re-stocked from birds collected from the wild. Vast bird markets once existed in many countries where bird curators could purchase birds for their zoo. Rules governing the importation of birds were few and relaxed so finding birds to bring to a zoo was much easier. Unfortunately, this easy road led many aviculturists to become poor stewards of the birds. With unlimited access and availability, curators chose not to reproduce birds, but were content with purchasing them.
Modern bird curators are faced with a different reality. Since most birds in zoos and aquariums are no longer collected from the wild the curators have had to learn how to take better care of their charges so they can reproduce, live a high quality of life and ultimately exist in zoos and aquariums. Bird curators working in AZA zoos and aquariums now are continuously working together to maintain these sustainable populations through cooperative husbandry and breeding plans. One way to affect sustainability is to increase our capacity to reproduce the birds living in zoos and aquariums. To accomplish this goal, zoos needed to allocate more spaces for additional breeding groups. These dedicated, usually off display spaces, can take on many forms, but the most desirable are where birds can be housed in relative seclusion. In the fall of 2009, the Zoo staff set out to do their part to improve long term bird sustainability for zoos and aquariums. The APF was built behind the Zoo Tropics building and consists of 20 flights that have both inside and outside spaces for birds. The birds have access to both inside and outside areas when temperatures allow, and can choose to be inside or outside. The size of the flights allows bird keepers to put different species of
birds together in the same flight. Each flight contains at least two compatible species of birds; some flights as many as three species. A typical flight contains a species of songbird and a pigeon or dove species. These types of birds do not compete for nesting sites so they can live together and allow the zoo keepers to care for a larger number of species. All of the flights have a mixture of living and artificial plants which provides for a more natural environment. Bird keepers provide many types of nesting material. They check and restocked daily at various feeding times. The birds are provided natural perching and are fed in a variety of ways to encourage natural foraging behaviors. The bird keepers also use a variety of shade cloths and grass skirts to create additional privacy for the birds. The breeding season normally begins with the onset of spring and can last into the fall. Keepers sometimes attempt to mimic nature in this artificial environment by employing misting systems to simulate rainfall, they will increase the amount of insects offered to replicate the flush of food resources which accompany seasonal rains and offer specialized nest boxes for cavity nesting species. The bird keepers even have sound system to project natural sounds and have a camera system at their disposal to monitor behavior with minimal disruption. This year the APF is home to thirty pairs of birds for breeding, representing twenty-four species. Nineteen of those species are part of the AZA Species Survival Plan (SSP) which is something of a computer dating system designed to ensure a population is genetically and demographically viable for the future generations. SSP managers work with AZA population biologists to assist them in deciding which birds should be reproducing with which to ensure that the population is as genetically diverse as possible. There are more SSP managed species in the APF than any other part of the zoo, making it one of the Zoo’s most important buildings. There are also species that live in the APF which are critically endangered or extinct in the wild. The zoo also contributes to the conservation of these species by providing a home and spaces to reproduce these animals. There is much that goes on “behind the scenes” at the zoo. The next time you visit the tropics or watch a bird fly through the South American aviary we hope you’ll have a new appreciation for them knowing that they are playing a greater role in ensuring that there are birds in zoos and aquariums in North America for many years to come and that they also play a role in preserving their species in nature.
Safari Edventure Day Sponsor
Thank You Cargill! Thanks to a generous grant from Cargill Meat Solutions we were able to create new, innovative hands on stations to engage students at Safari Edventure Day and beyond.
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ANIMALS & NATURE
Potential New Residents! We are excited to be working as partners with Dallas Zoo, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium and conservation officials in Swaziland, Africa, in an effort to provide 18 African elephants necessary new homes. The group has officially applied for permits that are required to allow the import. These permit requests are currently under consideration by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and Swaziland wildlife authorities. If permits are approved, the elephants can be relocated to the innovative, new habitats designed to meet the needs of large, social elephant herds.
Why These Elephants?
Quite frankly, the odds are stacked against these elephants. Between poaching threats in other parts of Africa, severe drought and negatively altering their own habitat, the future looks bleak for these elephants.
Increasingly sophisticated poachers kill an average of 96 elephants in Africa every day for their ivory. The population has declined by 60 percent in the past decade alone. Today there are few safe places for elephants on the continent. Larger areas that could sustain elephant herds lack protection and patrols to protect against poachers. Poaching is a significant problem we are working to eradicate. We serve as proud partners of the 96 Elephants campaign, working to end ivory sales and stop the slaughter. While progress is being made, meaningful change will take time, and the elephants need a home now. Swaziland, a small landlocked country in southern Africa roughly the size of New Jersey, has no other space for the elephants that were damaging the parks by changing forests into barren landscapes.
Drought conditions and degraded park land require Swaziland to truck in hay from South Africa to feed the 18 elephants daily. Swaziland is currently experiencing its worst drought ever, and the conditions are threatening wildlife as well as livestock.
Destroying ancient trees and brush as they eat their way across the plains, the parks’ elephants consume sparse vegetation faster than it can naturally regenerate. This altered the land and threw resources out of balance, which negatively affected other mammal and bird species in the parks. Since establishing its first wildlife sanctuary in 1964, Swaziland has been guided by longstanding wildlife management plans created by local conservationists and park officials who aim to restore the parks to a balanced, sustainable state. Although Swaziland’s parks are too small to support large elephant herds, plans identify the parks as ideal settings for a significant rhino conservation effort.
risk of extinction due to poaching for their horns. Black rhinos, and southern white rhinos, can live side by side because they do not compete for food— one browses and the other grazes. Both species need protected habitats and both are expected to thrive in the Swazi parks because they do not outstrip the land. The parks’ protected boundaries can also provide critical safety and space to support large numbers. Following an initial contribution to the wildlife trust to jump start rhino protection, each of the collaborating zoos will provide $30,000 per year for an additional five years to the privately managed, non-profit wildlife park. The dollars will directly support in-situ conservation, tools and the wildlife management plan designed to help rhinos. Each zoo plans to continue its support of the program beyond the initial five-year commitment, and have developed relationships with conservation partners around the world to protect and preserve many threatened species. We also will identify which initiatives the funds should go toward based on conservation priorities and provide technical assistance, so we’ll have an ongoing partnership with local conservationists.
How Do Six Elephants Travel? Making Room for Rhinos
While about 15 elephants will remain at the parks as symbols of Swaziland’s rich natural heritage, the current elephant population is too large, leaving 18 elephants in need of a new home and a safe future, a role the three accredited zoos can provide.
Once the most abundant of all rhino species, black rhinos are critically endangered and considered at great
A private charter plane will fly the animals from Swaziland to the United States, with a brief stop along the way to refuel. Veterinarians and animal care specialists will be with the animals every step of the way to ensure their safety and well-being. Veterinarians that are experienced in transporting elephants will determine what will make the elephants most comfortable on their journey.
Visit roomforrhinos.org for more information.
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To inspire discovery, appreciation, and respect for animals and nature
Are there
“I Do ’s ” in your future?
Say "I Do!" at the Sedgwick County Zoo! A wedding at the Zoo is a chance for couples to live out their wildest dreams and create an unforgettable experience for their guest. Whether it is an intimate gathering or grand affair, Sedgwick County Zoo is ready to help you celebrate in style. Visit our Weddings page at scz.org or call Catherine Helms at 316.266.8252 for more information on celebrating your special day at the Zoo!
Photos by Cole Campbell
NOVEMBER
zoo gift shop coupon valid from 11/1/15 to 11/30/15
15
%
T-shirts, Coats, OFF Sweatshirts
Regular priced merchandise only. One Coupon per person/per purchase. Must have membership ID and coupon to redeem.
JANUARY
zoo gift shop coupon valid from 1/1/16 to 1/31/16
15
% Clearance OFF
One Coupon per person/per purchase. Must have membership ID and coupon to redeem.
DECEMBER
zoo gift shop coupon valid from 12/1/15 to 12/31/15
25
% One
OFF Purchase
Regular priced merchandise only. One Coupon per person/per purchase. Must have membership ID and coupon to redeem.
PLANNING YOUR VISIT Winter Hours: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Visit scz.org to purchase tickets or renew your membership.
TAKE YOUR PICK! WE’RE OPEN 364 DAYS A YEAR! Closed September 10, 2016 for Zoobilee preparations. Speed up your rate of entry by purchasing any additional tickets online at scz.org for family or friends who don’t have a membership. You can print tickets at home and everyone can enjoy the Zoo adventure that much quicker!
Regular Admission • Adults (ages 12+) $13.95 • Senior Citizens (62+) $11.95 • Children (ages 3–11) $8.95 • Children ages 2 and under Free *Admission price subject to change in 2016. Visit scz.org to purchase tickets or renew your membership.
FREE Tram Tour (Weather permitting.)
All aboard! Enjoy a FREE narrated tram tour of the Zoo! You can hop on or off at any of the five designated tram stops. Using the tram to get around the Zoo allows you to see more of the Zoo during your visit! And it’s FREE!
Wheelchair Rental:
FEBRUARY
zoo gift shop coupon valid from 2/1/16 to 2/29/16
15
Hats, Gloves, % OFF Sweatshirts
Regular priced merchandise only. One Coupon per person/per purchase. Must have membership ID and coupon to redeem.
• Push wheelchairs: $5 per visit • Electric wheelchairs: $25/3 hours, $5 each additional hour
Stroller Rental:
• Single stroller: $6 • Double stroller: $9
Giraffe Feeding Station:
• Monday – Friday: 11:00 a.m. – Noon • Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Just $2 per person/per feeding