Zootracks Winter Issue

MEMBER’S MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER · DECEMBER · JANUARY · FEBRUARY

INSIDE

A Dream 16 Years in the Making Caribbean Flamingos Annual Report

WINTER 2014 / 2015

FEATURE STORY

ZooTracks

A Sedgwick County Zoological Society magazine for members Publisher Sedgwick County Zoological Society, Inc. © 2014 All rights reserved.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Mark C. Reed Sedgwick County Zoological Society, Inc. PRESIDENT Scott Ochs TRUSTEES Stanley G. Andeel Jeff Bloomer William P. Buchanan Martha C. Buford Cindy Burgess Kelly E. Callen Mark C. DeVries Allan Dunne Genevieve Farha Rhonda Fullerton Michael Herbert Ronald Holt Steven A. Houlik Dale Hoyer Dirk Jones Don J. Knappenberger Gary Kohn Dave Larson Marvin Long Buz Lukens Gayle Malone Sam Marnick Mary Lynn Oliver Martin W. Park Scott Redler Albert R. Sanchez Don Sherman Collin Stieben Jay Smith Paul Truitt David M. Unruh Marty Wells Sheryl Wohlford MAGAZINE COMMITTEE Schanee Anderson Melissa Graham Ryan Gulker Scott Newland Steven Onken ON THE COVER— African Elephant

A Dream 16 years in the Making We’ve been talking about a new elephant habitat for years and now it’s time to make it a reality! To date $4.3 million has been raised privately for the new habitat from numerous generous donors. Another $5.3 million was awarded to the Zoo by Sedgwick County Commissioners to complete the indoor facility, or barn. All of these generous gifts have given us the confidence to move forward with this ambitious construction project.

The Elephants of the Zambezi River Valley will be the largest and most expensive construction project that the Zoo has taken on. In the end our community can take pride in their accomplishment of brining the 3rd largest elephant habitat in the country to reality.

A New Home for Elephants Stephanie and Cinda’s new home will encompass a sprawling 5 acres of outdoor space, plus an 18,000 square foot indoor facility.

The new habitat will feature four yards. This will give Stephanie, Cinda and their future elephant family plenty of options for exploring and wandering. The design of this habitat will transport guest from just passively walking by the elephants to inserting them among the herd.

The Elephants of the Zambezi River Valley points of interest: South Yard This yard is over 3.6 acres. Elements in this yard include a 545 foot stream that terminates into a canal. The yard includes a natural water feature encompassing approximately 13,000 sq. ft. of surface area. This water feature has a 30 degree slope to a 12 foot depth.

There is an underwater elephant barrier which also serves as a perimeter barrier for the habitat. This natural water feature also includes a “water cannon� element that animal care staff can use to enrich the elephants and provide for improved bathing opportunities.

North Yard This 1.2 acre yard will feature a 3,790 sq. ft. splash pool that is 3 feet deep with a 12 foot waterfall that the elephants can enter. The previously mentioned 545 foot stream originates at this splash pool and meanders through this yard for a short distance before entering the South yard. Both the North and South yards can be combined to make one large yard just by opening two gates.

Behind the Scenes Yards The yards can be adapted to exist as one larger space or two spaces depending on gate positioning.

Elephants in the Wild Studies have shown that by meeting and learning about animals in zoos guests are more apt to care about what happens to animals in the wild.

We hope that this new habitat will strengthen our bond and love for elephants, both here at home and abroad.

Now is the time to care about what happens to elephants in the wild. They are under enormous pressures that are threatening their very existence. The greatest threats to elephants are the loss of wild habitats, illegal ivory trade and negative humanelephant interactions. Elephant populations are declining in some areas, while other areas are being overpopulated.

By visiting and being a member of the Zoo you are helping with elephant conservation. The conservation projects that you help us support are working to help decrease the humanelephant conflicts; educating locals; and supporting antipoaching rangers.

The Gathering Place The Gathering Place is a covered pavilion inserted between the two largest elephant yards. This area essentially allows guests to be surrounded by elephants from all view points. This area will be great for private parties, Creature Campouts and more!

2

FEATURE STORY Amphitheater

What’s Next

This is another shaded area with Kansas limestone benches. Perfect views of the elephants in the water and area to enjoy Catch a Keeper chats will be the main attraction of this area!

Construction has already begun! There will be many changes to the area over the winter. The crews have already begun working on expanding the perimeter fence on the south side of the Zoo; filling in and rerouting parts of the existing canal; and grading the area so structures can begin to be built. It’s so exciting to know that it won’t be much longer before the exhibit really starts to take shape!

Elephant Indoor Facility This 18,000 sq. ft. building is more than just a barn.

It’s an elephant diner, medical office, home and play area. The barn will be one of the premier holding buildings for elephants in the country. The state-ofthe-art building is designed to hold a family of up to nine elephants. The barn features a large public viewing area; a keeper kitchen that is viewable by the public; a training wall for the elephants and keeper office areas.

Plans are to open the Elephants of the Zambezi River Valley on Memorial Day weekend of 2016. We’ll keep you as updated as we can on social media and our website, but you can always venture out for a quick visit to check the progress!

Your support has shown that you are FOR the Sedgwick County Zoo. Now it’s time to show the community that you are also FOR elephants.

We still need to raise $1 million to finish the fundraising campaign for the Elephants of the Zambezi River Valley. We wanted to give our members an opportunity to participate in this historic moment in the life of the Zoo. No gift is too small and all will be greatly appreciated.

Elephant space in the barn includes a family room and six adjoining stalls.

The family room and all but one stall have natural substrate flooring with no concrete or solid bottom that is beneficial for the animal's overall health and well-being. The family room includes a large drinker/splash pool. Another feature of the facility is the addition of a Rotating Elephant Restraint Device—that will be used for medical check-ups that literally rotates the animal comfortably for examination.

Name

We hope you’ll join our herd in bringing Stephanie and Cinda, as well as the entire community, a new home to enjoy!

Give Today!

• Call: 316-266-8211 to make a donation • Click: For gifts of $10 and more, visit www.scz.org, and click on the “E Is for Elephants & So Am I” campaign in the middle of the page.

• Come by: Visit the membership office to make a donation with cash or credit card.

Send payments to: Sedgwick County Zoo Attn: Development Office 5555 Zoo Boulevard Wichita, KS 67212

Telephone

Address City Donate Today

$10

$25

$50

State $100

$250

$500

Zip

Questions?

(316) 266-8209

other $

Gifts of $1,000 or more will receive recognition in the new exhibit.

Signed ____________________________________________________ Date __________________

Annual Report 2013 Operating Support:

Sedgwick County Donations & Grants Other Contributions

Other Income 12.7%

$4,958,185 $372,707 $129,347

Operating Revenue:

Admissions $1,831,023 Concessions $866,825 Memberships $1,434,855 Other Income: Zoobilee $940,789 Promotional Events $190,789 Education Programs $150,032 Investment Income $1,030 Miscellaneous $113,801

Total Support & Revenue $10,989,383

Sedgwick County 45.1%

Memberships 13.1%

Concessions 7.9%

Admissions 16.7%

Other Contributions 1.2%

Donations & Grants 3.4%

Operating Expenses:

Salaries & Benefits $6,650,982 Repairs & Maintenance $390,462 Utilities $521,191 Other: Promotions & Advertising $374,085 Animal Food $519,853 Other Supplies $557,215 Professional Services $17,955 Animal Purchases $48,105 Insurance $96,045 Contractual $349,965 Miscellaneous $541,632 Infrastructure & Equipment $614,294

Total Expenses & Infrastructure $10,681,784

Infrastructure & Equipment 5.8% Salaries & Benefits 62.3% Other 23.4%

Utilities 4.9%

Repairs & Maintenance 3.7%

Total Support & Revenue Over (Under Expenses)* $307,599 *This reflects the amount of expense from 2013 carry over funded for infrastructure and small capital projects in 2014.

4

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 brief class descriptions of individual classes. Space is limited and pre-registration is required for classes.

Please call 316-266-8213 to register. Classes take place rain or shine. 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 11/5 Rabbit Age: 12–23 mo.

Wed 11/5 Rabbit+ Members: $4 Thur 11/6 Rabbit Nonmembers: $6 $ Additional person: 2 Thur 11/6 Rabbit Tues 12/2 Hedgehog +Siblings up to five years of age may also Tues 12/2 Hedgehog attend these classes on Wed 12/3 Hedgehog Wednesdays at 11:00 only. An additional fee of Wed 12/3 Hedgehog+ $2 will be charged for any Wed 1/7 Turtle mobile child.

Wed 1/7 Turtle+ Thur 1/8 Turtle Thur 1/8 Turtle Tues 2/3 Salamander Tues 2/3 Salamander Wed 2/4 Salamander Wed 2/4 Salamander+ Wed 3/4 Lizard Wed 3/4 Lizard+ Thur 3/5 Lizard Thur 3/5 Lizard

Start–End Time 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.

Class

Date

Ewe & Me

Tues 11/11 Age: 4 – K Tues 11/11 Members: $8 Nonmembers: $10 Additional person: $4 Wed 11/12 + Younger siblings may also attend class on Wed. at 10:00 only. An additional fee of $4 will be charged for any mobile child.

Wed 11/12 Wed 12/10 Wed 12/10 Thur 12/11 Tues 1/13 Wed 1/14 Wed 1/14 Wed 2/11 Wed 2/11 Thur 2/12 Tues 3/10 Wed 3/11

Wed 11/19 Rabbit Wed 11/19 Rabbit+ Age: 2–3 Members: $6 Thur 11/20 Rabbit Nonmembers: $8 $ Additional person: 3 Thur 11/20 Rabbit Thur 11/20 Rabbit +Siblings up to five Tues 12/16 Hedgehog years of age may also attend these classes on Tues 12/16 Hedgehog Wednesdays at 11:00 only. An additional fee of Tues 12/16 Hedgehog $3 will be charged for any Wed 12/17 Hedgehog+ mobile child.

Wed 12/17 Hedgehog Wed 1/21 Turtle Wed 1/21 Turtle+ Thur 1/22 Turtle Thur 1/22 Turtle Thur 1/22 Turtle Tues 2/17 Salamander Tues 2/17 Salamander Tues 2/17 Salamander Wed 2/18 Salamander+ Wed 2/18 Salamander Wed 3/25 Lizard Wed 3/25 Lizard+ Thur 3/26 Lizard Thur 3/26 Lizard Thur 3/26 Lizard

Owlet

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.

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.

10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.

11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

2:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.

Wed 3/11

Topic

Start–End Time

Talking about 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Turkeys Talking about 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Turkeys Talking about 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Turkeys+ Talking about 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Turkeys Animal 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Wrappers+ Animal 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Wrappers Animal 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Wrappers Kansas Critters 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Kansas Critters+10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Kansas Critters 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Amazing 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Amphibians Amazing 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Amphibians+ Amazing 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Amphibians Who Lives in 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. that Shell?

Who Lives in 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. that Shell?+ Who Lives in 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. that Shell?

Pajama Party

Sat 11/1 Silent Smells 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Fri 11/7 Silent Smells 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Sat 12/6 Animal Wrappers Members: $17 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Fri 12/12 Animal Nonmembers: $19 Wrappers Additional person: $5 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Sat 1/3 What's for Dinner?

6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Fri 1/9 What's for Dinner?

Sat 2/7 Friendly Frogs 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Fri 2/13 Friendly Frogs 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Sat 3/7 Lively Lizards 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Fri 3/13 Lively Lizards 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Family of up to 5 members, children Age: 0–1st grade

Sunset Safari

Tues 11/11 Rabbit Age: 12 mo.–6 years Tues 12/9 Hedgehog Members: $6 Tues 1/13 Turtle Nonmembers: $8 Additional person: $3 Tues 2/10 Salamander

"ZOO"per Stars Grades: 1–5 Members: $6 Nonmembers: $8

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.

Tues 3/10 Lizard

6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Sun 11/23 Poitou Sun 12/28 Gorilla

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Class

Date

Topic

Start–End Time

Tot Tuesdays

Tues 11/25 Turkey Tails 10:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m.

Tues 12/23 No Class due to holiday Tues 1/27 It's Cold Outside 10:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m.

NO COST 10:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m.

Tues 2/24 Turtles No advance 10:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m.

Salamanders Tues 3/24 registration required.

Age: 3–5 siblings welcome

ZOOper Kids

Grades: 1–5 Members: $8 Nonmembers: $10 NOTE: Program time has changed for Jan – March.

Homeschool Expeditions Grades: 1–5

Members: $15 Nonmembers: $17 Includes up to five family members Additional person: $5

WOW

Grades: 1–5

For two-hour class: $10 member $12 non-member For five-day class: $145 member $160 non-member

So You Think You Want to Be a Zookeeper?

Sat 11/15 Fur-tastick 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Sat 12/6 Animal Café 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Sat 1/10 Vanishing 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Domestics Sat 2/7 Now You 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

See Me Sat 3/7 Amazing Apes 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Wed 11/19 Oh I Get That All the Time Wed 12/10 Winter Wonderland Wed 1/14 Celebrate Kansas Wed 2/4 Creature Creations Wed 3/4 Pollinating Powerhouses

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Before & After Care for WOW class: 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. $15 for entire week, March 16–20

Thur 2/19 Farm

Teens Members: $10 Nonmembers: $12

Date

Backstage Pass

Includes up to five family members, ages 5+ Members: $17 Nonmembers: $19 Additional people/ Individual fee: $8

Topic

Sat 11/8 Commissary Sat 1/24 Vet Hospital Sat 3/21 Horticulture

Start–End Time 10:00 a.m. –11:30 a.m.

10:00 a.m. –11:30 a.m.

10:00 a.m. –11:30 a.m.

Wheeling Wild Club

5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

March 18 Every third Wednesday thru Family—must be on October 14 bicycle or attached wagon.

Members: $30 Sponsored by Bicycle X-change 1 ride per month Nonmembers: $34 **Rides will not be rescheduled for 1 ride per month inclement weather

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Wed 11/26 Thanksgiving 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Safari Mon 3/16 Spring Fling 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

– Fri 3/20

Thur 12/18 Frogs

Class

3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.

3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.

* closed-toe shoes required

Senior Wednesdays

Wed 11/12 Orangutans vs 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Palm Oil Wed 12/3 Holiday Party at Active guests over 55 Art Museum— NO CLASS $4 per adult Pre-registration not required Wed 1/14 Just a Second 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Now Sponsored by Larksfield Place Wed 2/11 Something is in10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. the Air Wed 3/11 Don't Let That 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. in Here!

Social Hour ages 21+ Members: $30 Non-members: $35

Coffee Connections

Geared towards adults but all ages welcome

NO COST

Fri 11/21 Wild Wines— 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

FULL Fri 3/27 Cocktails with 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. the Creatures Sponsored by House of Schwan and Glazer's

Mon 11/3 Nancy Smith North America

9:00 a.m. –10:00 a.m.

Mon 12/1 Jeanette Summers9:00 a.m. –10:00 a.m.

Graphics

Mon 1/5 Mark C Reed Zoo Director

9:00 a.m. –10:00 a.m.

Mon 2/2 Dr. Sandy Wilson 9:00 a.m. –10:00 a.m.

No advance Veterinarian registration required. Mon 3/2 Anne Nystrom 9:00 a.m. –10:00 a.m.

Sponsored by Spice Merchant

Jungle Birds

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. 3. Payment must be postmarked no later than seven days after preregistration. We reserve the right to cancel any preregistration or to charge a $2 late fee to individuals whose payment is not received on time. NOTE: If a refund is needed, contact the education department by 4 p.m. the day prior to the scheduled class. After contact, we will be happy to refund a maximum of 75% of the original program fee. 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:

6

DISCOVERY

Animal Encounter All ages. NO COST. No advanced registration required. Classes may be canceled without notice.

DATE

Safari Edventure Day Thank You!

TOPIC

TIME

Mon 11/3

No legs

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Sedgwick County Zoo would like to thank the

Tues 11/11

Four legs

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Wed 11/19

More legs

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

sponsors of Safari Edventure Day 2014! Their

Thur 11/27

No program due to holiday

Mon 12/1

Africa

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Tues 12/9

Islands

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Wed 12/17

South America

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Thur 12/25

No program due to holiday

Mon 1/5

Cold Colors

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Tues 1/13

Warm and Cuddly

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Wed 1/21

Summer Down Under

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Thur 1/29

Kansas Day Animal

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Mon 2/2

Long and Languid

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Tues 2/10

Lovey-Dovey

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Wed 2/18

Lincoln Look Alike

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Thur 2/26

Leaping Lizards

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Mon 3/2

The Eyes of March

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Tues 3/10

Grassland Animals

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Wed 3/18

Going Green

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Thur 3/26

Amazing Jumpers

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Pardon our Progress: JUNGLE UPDATE The Jungle roof renovation project has really taken off! In early October the new roof panels were put in place and the new look of the Jungle began to take shape. The roof panels are now visible and the Jungle is beginning to be enclosed once again. The fun for the Horticulture staff will soon begin! They’ll work on new plantings, path work and making the Jungle come alive once again!

Make sure your calendars are marked for Memorial Day weekend of 2015 for the Grand Opening of the Jungle. We’ll have more information on the plans for the reopening in the next issue of ZooTracks!

contributions allowed Sedgwick County Zoo to provide an exciting and education filled day for nearly 500 area students!

Thanks to:

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 8

ADVENTURE

Winter Wednesdays Every Wednesday

November 2014 through February 2015: 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!

Season’s Treatings

MEMBERSHIP INCLUDES

Saturday, December 13: 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! Check the Zoo’s Signature Zoo Events page of the website to see this year’s schedule of enrichment times.

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.

ZOOPAL Holiday Tradition

Adopt the elephants 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. Make your shopping easy!

CALL 316.266.8211 • CLICK www.scz.org Come by the Membership Office 5555 Zoo Blvd Wichita KS 67212 Offer available through 12/31/2014

Children's Farms Festival:

Santa at the Barn Saturday, December 13, 2014 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.

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CONSERVATION

Conservation & Research of the Caribbean Flamingo By: Chris Brown, Dallas Zoo’s Curator of Birds

Beginning in 1999 a long-term conservation and research program centering on the Caribbean flamingo was initiated in Mexico, where one of the largest breeding colonies of Caribbean flamingos is found on the eastern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula. In collaboration with conservation group, Niños y Crías (meaning Children and Baby Animals), the Dallas Zoo began its participation in the first full-scale round-up of Caribbean flamingo chicks to identify them in order to gather information critical for understanding migration, nutrition requirements, and reproductive behaviors.

In this region, the Caribbean flamingo is considered a flagship symbol for the wetlands habitats in the coastal areas.

Flamingos are recognizable animals to most people, and can be the stimulus to create interest in preserving the wetlands and wildlife associated with it.

Since 1999, the Dallas Zoo has traveled to Mexico during each breeding season for the round-up and banding of roughly 500 flamingo chicks just prior to fledging. Banding is a painless way to identify the birds for field observations.

In addition, blood samples are taken from each chick for sex determination and wing length, tarsal length, and body weights are recorded for each bird as well. Tissue samples are also taken to extract DNA for genetic studies with two primary objectives: molecular sex determination and population genetics studies to help clarify population subdivision in this species. Afterward, all of the chicks are released back to the main group.

The central nesting zone of the Caribbean flamingo in the Yucatan is in the Ria Lagartos Biosphere Reserve.

Approximately 85-percent of the flamingo hatches in Mexico occur in this estuary. Additionally, the Reserve, along with Celestun, El Palmar, and Uaymitun Reserves, constitute the

most important flamingo feeding areas in the Yucatan. Mexico, Cuba, and Bahamas make up the largest and most important nesting sites for this species. With regular field observations, researchers can learn about flamingos’ behavior as an indicator species for the health of the wetlands environment.

For the past three years, Sedgwick County Zoo has sent several employees to assist in the observations and banding project.

In 2007 the Caribbean Flamingo Conservation Group was formed. Caribbean region countries with nesting flamingo colonies have come together to work collaboratively on similar goals such as those initiated in Mexico. Future goals are to host a workshop to prepare the Caribbean region participating countries for banding operations and collaborative conservation and research programs.

The biological importance of the coastal areas for wildlife in this region cannot be over emphasized. Many migratory, wading and shorebirds depend on these areas for reproducing, feeding, and as stopovers on their way north during migration. As many as 333 avian species have been documented. This diversity can be attributed to a variety of habitat types. Main ecosystems include rias (estuaries forming coastal lagoons), mangrove swamps, petenes (hammocks), and cenotes (sinkholes). The savannas, semi-arid tropical deciduous forests, and coastal dunes make up the remaining habitats.

The Dallas Zoo recently received a trophy award for its dedication to the program in Mexico and its 15 years of collaboration with Niños y Crías. For more information on Niños y Crías, the primary conservation group for Caribbean flamingos, or if you would like to help save Caribbean flamingos and their habitats, visit: www.ninosycrias.org or www.caribbeanflamingo.org/en.

In addition, environmental factors affecting this species are being considered and projects such as habitat preservation, protecting important flamingo feeding sites, reclaiming and preserving freshwater springs are active year-round events. Conservation awareness programs are also being initiated in the form of field activities for local children and classroom instruction. Children are exposed to their native wildlife and habitat and help take on the responsibility of protecting these areas.

Chris Brown has been the curator of birds for the Dallas Zoo since 2000. He is an active professional member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is the chair of the Ciconiiformes and Phoenicopteriformes Taxon Advisory Group (TAG) responsible for managing all wading birds in zoos and aquariums in North America. Chris is also a member of the Caribbean Flamingo Conservation Group and is part of the regional field team that organizes activities associated with the conservation and management of the Caribbean flamingo.

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ANIMALS & NATURE

Pete's Plant Tips This article is written not so much for the gardener in your house as it is for the spouse, children, grandkids or friends of the gardener.

The holiday season will be upon us soon and you might be wondering what to give your favorite green thumb. The following is a list of my favorite things (along with ideas from gardeners on the Zoo’s horticulture team).

BYPASS PRUNERS Good quality pruners are always needed. With no endorsement implied, I think Felco makes a terrific pair of pruners. They have many different models to choose from for different tasks. As long as you are getting pruners, get a holster too. I always hate when I set my pruners down and then I can’t find them 2 minutes later. It’s easier to just slip them back in their holster on my hip.

BYPASS LOPPERS Now it’s easy to go a little crazy with loppers but resist and just get a good quality, wood-handled, mid-sized pair of loppers.

Pruners will only cut up to about 1”. Loppers will cut 2”–2 1/2”.

Bigger branches require a saw.

FOLDING SAW Always useful for getting the pruning done that those pruners or loppers can’t handle, most brands have an easy to replace blade. Get an extra blade too.

SHOVELS We gardeners use several types of shovels. Hand trowels for spring planting of small plants, round point shovels for bigger jobs, and drain spades (sometimes called sharpshooters) are good for those projects that require something bigger than a hand trowel. In the Jungle exhibit, I use my sharpshooter more often than ANY of my other shovels. Square shovels are great when you are backfilling around a newly planted tree or shrub, loading a

wheelbarrow, or unloading a truck of soil or mulch. I know it seems like a lot, but trust me; each of those shovels has its purpose.

GLOVES I wrote about gloves as part of being safely equipped in an earlier issue. We gardeners appreciate a pair of quality gloves made for landscaping. New ones come with padding in the palm and are very flexible. Ask your local garden center for a recommendation.

MULTI-TOOLS These are pocket knives with a lot more hiding in there. Two of the more popular brands are Leatherman and Gerber. Look online for the features in the different models and pick out what best suits your favorite gardener. P.S. This was my favorite gift ever! I may not use mine everyday but, when I need it, it’s great to know I have it next to my pruners on my belt.

MINI TILLER If you are looking to spend a little bit more, the newer gas or electric powered mini garden tillers will be a joy to use. They are much easier on the back than turning soil with a shovel or potato fork. These are available online, at hardware stores, and at some garden centers.

This is not a complete list, but it’s a good place to start.

Happy Holidays!

SIGNIFICANT HATCHINGS Jamaican Iguanas In our last issue of ZooTracks we hinted that we were anxiously awaiting the hatching of Jamaican iguanas.

Now we are pleased to share that on August 7, eight critically endangered Jamaican iguanas hatched. This success makes it two years in a row for successful breeding and hatchings! Congratulations to our Amphibians and Reptiles staff on these successful hatchings!

Jamaican iguanas (Cyclura collie) are a critically endangered species of lizard in the genus Cyclura.

Animals in this genus are commonly referred to as rock iguanas. They get this name from inhabiting the dry, rocky, forested areas of the islands of the West Indies.

While many people recognize green iguanas with their light coloration, high crests and elongate tails, most have never heard of Cyclura. Jamaican iguanas are smaller than green iguanas and have a drabber greenish gray coloration with muted blues on the crest and face.

They were thought to be extinct for 50 years until a hunter’s dog caught one in 1990. These animals have a small population that still survives in the Hellshire Hills of Jamaica.

Hornbills

By: Kellie Acosta: Jungle Zookeeper

Sedgwick County Zoo had their second Sunda Wrinkled Hornbill chick hatch at the end of May. The first chick that hatched at the zoo was in 2012. There are approximately 55 hornbills currently in Association of Zoo and Aquariums institutions.

By breeding these birds, we are able to contribute to developing more genetic diversity in the hornbills we have in these institutions. The chick from 2012 was sent to Phoenix zoo to be paired up with a female and hopefully breed as well once he reaches sexual maturity.

The hornbills are very hard working and dedicated parents. After the male and female copulate, the female will find a hole in a tree and begin sealing herself in until only the tip of her beak fits out of the hole.

She will use mud, woodchips, some diet items, and even feces to seal herself in. At the Zoo, we use a large wooden box that is put up on a platform and the box has a hole in one side just big enough for her to get in and out. When the hole is still in the process of being sealed, but she is no longer able to get in and out, the male will continue to bring her materials to use. While in the nest, the female will lay the egg, incubate it, and then when the chick hatches, she cares for the chick.

What is dad doing during all of this? Don’t worry, he is also kept very busy. The male finds food for the female and the chick. He will pass the food to her and she will give it to the chick. She then, in return, passes him all the feces from inside the box and he throws it away. That way the smell does not attract any predators. This routine continues until the chick is fully feathered and able to fly. At that time, the female begins to very forcefully knock out the hole and they both emerge from the nest. This year, the female started sealing herself in the nest box at the beginning of February and they came out at the beginning of August. I think we know who the ‘parent of the year’ award goes to!

Young animals are being head-started at the Hope Zoo in Jamaica and released back into the wild when they are large enough to fend off one of their biggest threats, the introduced mongoose. In the United States, we maintain assurance colonies at a handful of zoos around the country. The Sedgwick County Zoo is proud to be one of those zoos to work with this species.

This year, the hornbills have produced another male. The coloration on his beak is the first sign to indicate whether the chick is male or female.

We can also send in a DNA sample to be tested, just to be 100% sure.

Since the male will eventually see his offspring as competition for the female, this chick will also be sent to another institution. We are very excited to watch both of these chicks grow up and start their own journey towards parenthood.

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To inspire discovery, appreciation, and respect for animals and nature

PLANNING YOUR VISIT Summer Hours: Winter Hours: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Have a wild holiday party at Sedgwick County Zoo

TAKE YOUR PICK! WE’RE OPEN 364 DAYS A YEAR! Closed September 12,

2015 for Zoobilee preparations.

Plan a trip to the Zoo with family and friends!

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!

Your guests will be welcomed with holiday decorations, your choice of Hot Chocolate or Apple Cider, and festive holiday music.

Lunch and evening party packages for groups of 20 to 120 guests are available. For more information call 316-266-8252 or email Catherine.Helms@scz.org.

• Adults (ages 12+) $13.95 • Senior Citizens (62+) $11.95 • Children (ages 3–11) $8.95 • Children ages 2 and under Free

For more information visit the Group Events page at scz.org.

Visit scz.org to purchase tickets or renew your membership.

FREE Tram Tour 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! (Weather permitting.)

Wheelchair Rental: • 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. (staff & weather permitting) Just $2 per person/per feeding

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

zoo gift shop coupon valid from 11/1/14 to 11/30/14

zoo gift shop coupon valid from 12/1/14 to 12/31/14

One Coupon per person/per purchase. Must have membership ID and coupon to redeem.

One Coupon per person/per purchase. Must have membership ID and coupon to redeem.

15

Back Packs, % OFF Totes, & Purses

JANUARY

zoo gift shop coupon valid from 1/1/15 to 1/31/15

15

one clearance % OFF item

One Coupon per person/per purchase. Must have membership ID and coupon to redeem.

25

regular % one priced item OFF

FEBRUARY

zoo gift shop coupon valid from 2/1/15 to 2/28/15

15

Hats, Gloves, % OFF Sweatshirts

One Coupon per person/per purchase. Must have membership ID and coupon to redeem.