It’s time to enjoy cooler weather, crunchy leaves and pumpkin-flavored drinks … autumn is here! The next several months, the Saint Louis Zoo grounds are especially festive. From Zootoberfest to Boo at the Zoo presented by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital and then concluding with Wild Lights presented by Commerce Bank, we’re in holiday celebration mode!
In this issue, we’re kicking off the Halloween season with a cover story featuring animals that are most active at nighttime. Some even have some spooky adaptations and behaviors. For example, the Mexican red-kneed tarantula (featured on the cover) hunts at night and then paralyzes and liquefies its prey after delivering a venomous bite.
As you’re exploring the Zoo grounds this fall, you might spot something you wouldn’t expect to see in a habitat … a keeper in a wetsuit! Cleaning and maintaining aquatic habitats, like Anheuser-Busch Hippo Harbor and the Judy and Jerry Kent Family Sea Lion Sound, are critical for animal health. Meet some members of the Zoo’s Dive Team in our article on page 12 and discover the depths they go to care for the animals.
Our article on page 18 is all about poop. With 16,000 animals in our care, there’s no shortage of it. Our scientists in the Endocrinology Lab consider this resource to be “black gold”; a fecal sample can reveal many things about the animal’s health. Get the scoop on poop and meet the team that ensures that the knowledge we can glean from animal waste is never wasted.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute, our wildlife conservation branch. Conservation has long been a part of the Zoo’s culture; we have been involved in field conservation since the late 1980s. It was in 2004, however, that the WildCare Institute was founded, and since then, we’ve celebrated many wins for conservation. Read more about our achievements and our team’s dedication to wildlife on page 20
As always, thank you for supporting the Saint Louis Zoo. We look forward to seeing you this fall and hope you make many happy memories with us as we close out 2024.
COMMISSION OF THE ST. LOUIS
ZOOLOGICAL
PARK SUBDISTRICT
Chair
Lawrence E. Thomas
Vice-Chair
Chonda J. Nwamu
Treasurer
Will R. Ross, MD, MPH
Immediate Past Chair
Cynthia J. Brinkley
Commissioners
Vincent Bennett
Karl A. Grice
Jerald L. Kent
Robert F. O’Loughlin
Neal F. Perryman
Dana Tucker Redwing
Winthrop B. Reed III
Michael W. Riney
Dr. Joyce Roberts
Chairs Emeritus
Honorable James F.
Conway
Steven F. Schankman
Mark J. Schnuck
SAINT LOUIS ZOO ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President
Robert B. Smith III
Vice President
Michael J. Hickey
Treasurer
Lisa K. Sullivan
Secretary
Linda J. Hunter
Immediate
Past President
Alicia S. McDonnell
Executive Committee
Dr. Edmond B. Cabbabe
Kathy S. Federico
Matthew W. Geekie
Ricky L. Hopkins, Sr.
Annette L. Kelly
James P. Leonard
Dr. Matthew R. MacEwan
Bhavik R. Patel
Angela D. Schaefer
Stephanie Valier
Schwendinger
Maria G. Taxman
Matthew A. Wagner
Gerald E. Wiley
James E. Williams, Jr.
Board of Directors
Barbara C. Archer
Nicholas Barto
Kathleen W. Bilderback
Cenia D. Bosman
Christine Boushka
Debbie A. Caplin
Hazel Alethea R. Donald
Brad M. Edwards
Cory Elliott
Logan W. Finerty
Lauren Thomas Fries
Amy A. Gill
Brett G. Gilliland
Janis G. Goldstein
Davida Lichtenstein
Grindstaff
Kenneth H. Hannah
Charles Henson
Ryan L. Hyman
Jason Janisse
Robert F. Johnston
Carol S. Klein
Lee C. Kling
Derek Larson, MD
Dr. Dan W. Luedke
Melissa Markwort
Ryan J. Martin
Jennifer T. McGrath
Andrew T. Miedler
Patrick J. Moore
John Nguyen
Dr. Stanley J. Niemann
Frances G. Pestello
Pravina Pindoria
Dr. Steven S. Pope
Quirsis V. Riney
Angela M. Rhone
James G. Sansone
Jason D. Sapp
Steven F. Schankman
Margaret Schneithorst
James R. Schnurbusch
Rachel Kent Shlien
Torbjorn B. Sjogren
Zachary A. Smith
Dianne Sutcliffe
Kevin Travers
James Tyrrell
Lottie Wade
Robert M. Williams, Jr.
Geoffrey Wilson
Heather Wood
Emerita – Emeritus
Members
James G. Berges
Marguerite Garrick
Douglas E. Hill
Joseph F. Imbs III
John K. Wallace, Jr.
Ex-Officio
Whittney Dunn
SAINT LOUIS ZOO
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
ADVISORY BOARD
President Whittney Dunn
Secretary Rei Kato
Vice Presidents
Emily Carter
Betsy Crites
Christian Wargo Luke Yamnitz
Liaisons
Jennifer Jeffries
Megan Schwedtmann
Eric Werner
Board Members
Joel Carter
Justin Diecker
Katie Doherty
Katherine Dockery
Maggie Gann-Bociek
Anthony Graham
Donald Hageman
Allison Heininger
Praveena Kolli
Chance Lacey
Maggie Lohmeyer
Brittany Mayfield
James Merenda
Alex Michael
Timothy Nielsen
Joel Palumbo
Lauren Parko
Dacoda Scarlett
Kate Schwarze
Samantha Sondag
Alex Stepanek
Jake Thessen
Craig VanLeeuwen
Matthew Warren
Lisa Wilson
Devyn Yates
in this issue
Did you know...
Read about some of the WildCare Institute’s many successes, from helping to save animals from the brink of extinction to building up communities that coexist with wildlife. On the cover 4 20 18 6 12
Many people consider fall to be the best season to visit the Zoo. Check out all the reasons why!
What goes bump in the night?
In the spirit of Halloween, here’s a look at some animals that find delight in the darkness and are most active after hours.
The depths of animal care
Meet some of the Zoo’s Dive Team members who clean and maintain six major underwater habitats, including the 188,000-gallon sea lion habitat.
The scoop on poop
Much can be learned from this “black gold”! Get a glimpse into the Zoo’s Endocrinology Lab, where scientists use fecal samples to determine animal pregnancies and reproductive cycles, stress levels, and more.
Celebrating 20 years: the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute
Mexican red-kneed tarantula
Photo by Ray Meibaum
stlzoo is published quarterly as a member benefit by the Saint Louis Zoo Association, One Government Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110 Managing Editor: Rebecca McMiller; Editorial Assistance: Billy Brennan, Jill Gordon, Kirby Meyer and Elaine Vydra; Graphic Design: McCord Design Group; Contributing Photographer: Ray Meibaum; Contributors: Members of the Zoo staff.
At the Saint Louis Zoo, we not only care about the conservation of animals, but also about the conservation of the environment. That is why stlzoo magazine is created using FSC- (Forest Stewardship Council) certified paper with recycled materials and eco-friendly inks. You also can opt into receiving digital-only issues! Check your email for instructions.
membership matters
Hi, Zoo members! In this section, we’ll briefly highlight top Zoo happenings in October, November and December 2024, from event and attraction updates to member-specific reminders. If you have questions about your membership, please visit stlzoo.org/membership or contact us at (314) 646-4771, option 2
Take advantage of member discounts at fall events!
Make your membership benefits count at Boo at the Zoo presented by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital and Wild Lights presented by Commerce Bank! Zoo members receive discounted admission to these beloved events, plus an additional 10% discount (20% total) in open gift shops during the events.
And don’t forget about Holiday Zootique on Friday, Nov. 8, where you can shop for one-of-a-kind gifts and enjoy an additional 10% discount (20% total). Plus, enjoy light snacks and beverages while you shop. Volunteers will be on hand to wrap gifts for you! Learn more about these events on pages 22 and 23 and at stlzoo.org
Member discount on education programs
We offer programs all throughout the year, including school break camps for kids. And remember, members receive a discount! See a list of programs on pages 24 to 27, and visit stlzoo.org/education to learn more.
Attractions and experiences
Giraffe Feedings
$2 discount per person with a membership card
The feeding schedule is 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. daily, weather and conditions permitting.
Sea Lion Show presented by Together Credit Union Through Oct. 27, 2024; Friday: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday: 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m.
Included in member tickets Visit stlzoo.org for showtimes
Stingrays at Caribbean Cove
Need
holiday gift idea?
Give the Gi of the Zoo
Consider a Zoo gi card, membership*, animal adoption or behind-the-scenes tour. Or, check out unique merchandise at Holiday Zootique, a shopping event with perks for members. A Zoo gi is more than a perfect present; it supports our animal care and conservation work.
did you
Many consider fall to be one of the best times of the year to visit the Saint Louis Zoo. Here are some of the
Animals are in their outdoor habitats more often
Guests aren’t the only ones who like a crisp autumn breeze. Animals that usually prefer cooler weather include red pandas, snow leopards, Amur tigers and grizzly bears. While animals are given choices on how they want to spend their day — whether that is inside, outside or in a secluded spot in their habitat — they have been known to strut their stuff more often in the fall.
Dwarf mongoose
you know?
The Zoo offers fall-themed food, beverages and Halloween treats for sale
All goodies at Candy Crossing, our shop in the center of the Zoo, are wildlife-friendly and contain either sustainable palm oil or no palm oil. This fall, look for Halloween-themed jelly candy kabobs, gummy candies and lollipops; caramel apple pie fudge; and vanilla candy corn fudge.
In addition, look for specialty hot chocolates for kids and adults, seasonal funnel cakes, apple cider floats, and more!
We hope to see you at Boo at the Zoo presented by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital, but if it’s past the kids’ bedtime or evening outings aren’t your jam, then enjoy the decorations for free during the Zoo’s daytime hours. 3
Spooky, not scary, decorations adorn the grounds
What GOE S BU MP Night?
IN THE
By Conservation Education Liaisons Emily Bowling, Michael Dawson, Lisa Lidgus and Grace Warshaw
Photos by Ray Meibaum
WWhen the sun goes down and the Saint Louis Zoo’s doors close, the grounds come alive with all the species that enjoy the night life (nocturnal animals). In the spirit of Halloween, here’s a look at those that find delight in the darkness.
Henkel's leaf-tailed gecko
zoo Habitat Location: Charles H. Hoessle Herpetarium
It may be hard to find our leaf-tailed geckos, no matter the time of day. Leaf-tailed geckos are camouflage specialists with a pattern that mimics tree bark or moss. If you can spot them, they are found sleeping in a head-down position during daylight hours, using the adhesive pads on their fingers and toes to stick to vertical surfaces. The surefire way to know you are near a leaf-tailed gecko is if they feel threatened. If we were to disturb them at night when they’re active in their habitat, they would look like characters from “Beetlejuice.” They would open their jaws wide, exposing their bright red mouths, and let out loud calls that would resemble a child’s screams. Their big eyes and vertical pupils that they use to see at night would only add to the spooky vibe.
Spectacled owl
oo Habitat Location: Bird House
These owls live in the Amazon rainforest and get their name from the white feathers around their eyes that look like glasses. They are silent hunters, using their large eyes to see at night. Their eyes are so big that they can be up to 5% of their body weight! Our spectacled owl pair can be found resting most of the day, listening to the calls of all the other birds. Then, at night, they can be found making their own distinct calls. They don’t sound like our local owls at all; their call is a pulsating series of deep hoots that sound like a sheet of metal being flexed quickly.
Hoffman's two-toed sloth
zoo Habitat Location: Primate House
Pancakes, our resident sloth, can usually be found snoozing in her favorite enrichment barrel. It’s because sloths spend up to 15 hours per day living up to their name — sleeping! But did you know she’s nocturnal? Long after the primates are all asleep, she can be found moving all around her habitat to explore and find snacks. By morning, she is back in her favorite napping spot, and we are all none the wiser to her midnight escapades.
Mexican redkneed tarantula
zoo Habitat Location: Bayer Insectarium
These arachnids prefer to lay low during the day while they wait for darkness to descend on the forests and deserts that they call home. Once night falls, they use their cozy burrows as hideouts while they wait to ambush their prey. The silk lining of their burrows helps to transmit the vibrations of their unsuspecting meal, giving the Mexican red-kneed tarantula a prime opportunity to deliver their venomous bite. After their prey is bitten, it becomes paralyzed and liquefied, allowing the tarantula to use its straw-like mouthpiece to suck up juices. Yum! If that gave you goosebumps, don’t worry — these tarantulas are typically docile, and their bites are not fatal to humans (bites have been compared to the pain of bee stings).
Hippopotamus
zoo Habitat Location: River’s Edge
When you visit our three female hippos, you will likely see them relaxing in their temperature-controlled freshwater pool. They will often nap together while the cichlid fish nibble away at their dead skin, providing them with natural skin care. And thus are the daytime activities of both Zoo and wild hippos. But, in the evenings, when it cools down, the hippos feast! Here at the Zoo, our hippos eat lots of hay at night, and in the wild, hippos mow down as much grass as they can get. In fact, hippos spend so much time eating in the evenings that they end up creating pathways that other animals can use to find water.
Puma
zoo Habitat Location: Big Cat Country
Pumas are the most abundant large cats in North and South America. They’re very well adapted for a variety of habitats and are excellent ambush predators. Their senses (especially their incredible eyesight) are keyed into finding prey like deer, wild pigs and even capybaras in South America. Like most cats, pumas are active in the evenings. They will spend their time hunting, moving through their habitat, marking their territory, and investigating smells and signs left by other pumas. Here at the Zoo, our pumas, Yukon and Russet, are often active when the Zoo is closed. Thankfully, the Zoo offers a wide variety of evening and overnight programs when guests can see the pumas at their most active.
American alligator
zoo Habitat Location:
Charles H. Hoessle Herpetarium
Norman, our American alligator, spends his daytime hours basking in the sun or resting in his pool. At night, a low, deep bellow may be heard coming from his habitat during breeding season. If you are lucky enough to hear Norm’s call, it’s a sound you won’t soon forget. He’s making sure everyone knows about his territory, and it’s so low we can’t hear the entire call. Some of his bellow is at an infrasound level — a frequency of sound below our range of hearing — and can only be detected by seeing water splash over his back as he bellows.
Red panda
zoo Habitat Location:
The Wild, near Schnuck Family Plaza
While red pandas are beloved for their adorable faces, small size and bushy fur, you may be hard pressed to see a lot of daytime activity from red pandas. In the wild, red pandas live in isolated mountains (above 4,000 feet) in China, Nepal, Bhutan and Burma. They use their red fur to blend in with the red moss that grows in the trees. During the day, they will relax in trees, climb to the canopy to sunbathe on cooler days and munch on bamboo. In the evenings, red pandas show off their amazing agility by climbing up and down trees; marking their territory; and finding other food sources like eggs, small birds and small rodents. All this activity may catch the attention of a predator like a snow leopard. Thankfully, red pandas’ agility comes in handy again. When threatened, they will stand on their hind legs, ready to defend themselves with their sharp claws. They also can release a super stinky smell with scent glands at the base of their tail to scare away any potential threats.
depths animal care OF THE
By Erin Heffernan, Public Relations Specialist
Photos by Ray Meibaum
Early one recent morning, three divers were hard at work in the depths of an 188,000-gallon habitat as a harbor seal torpedoed by, not seeming to mind.
Each figure was a member of Saint Louis Zoo’s Dive Team, a group of about 45 to 50 keepers who not only care for Zoo animals but are also trained to maintain the six major underwater habitats where those animals live.
In some cases, keepers dive right alongside penguins, seals and fish to complete their work.
“The penguins are probably the most fun to be around,” said Rick Smith, a former bird keeper who is now the Zoo’s first full-time Dive Safety Officer. “The puffins are shy, but the seals are the most curious and the best swimmers.”
dive program in 2002 prompted by
the opening of an underwater hippo viewing pool in the River’s Edge area of the Zoo that only certified divers could maintain.
Today, the divers now work in all corners of the Zoo as other impressive, underwater habitats have been added, including pools for sea lions and seals, penguins and puffins, native fish, and the Zoo’s resident polar bear Kali.
“ DIVING LETS YOU SEE THE HABITAT IN A NEW WAY. ”
The divers even maintain a simulated stream behind the scenes in the Charles H. Hoessle Herpetarium; this stream is used in the Zoo’s conservation work breeding
hellbenders, an endangered salamander native to Missouri.
Most habitats need to be maintained weekly, amounting to some 200 dives a year, Smith said.
Angela Hamberg, Zoological Manager of Birds and Vice Chair of the Zoo Dive Control Board, has been a member of the team since 2012 and said there are advantages to having the keepers themselves do this work.
“Diving lets you see the habitat in a new way,” she said. “You might see something different in an animal’s behavior or spot something going on underwater that you wouldn’t notice otherwise. That’s where the animals spend their entire day, so you get to see what they see.”
Anheuser-Busch Hippo
Above: A diver cleans the Anheuser-Busch Hippo Harbor habitat
training deep GOES
Joining the Dive Team can take months of work, including sessions at a local pool, dives in a quarry and learning lots of safety protocols.
New divers start by passing a physical exam and taking an 18-hour online course to learn the basics of equipment and safety before ever getting in the water. They then take classes at a local swimming pool where Smith teaches trainees how to operate dive equipment. They also must complete two days of open-water SCUBA diving certification training in the murky waters of Mermet Springs, a dive site and SCUBA facility on a quarry in Southern Illinois.
Divers finish up their initial training by testing out their skills during three or four dives in the Zoo habitats where they will work, accompanied by Smith.
Each area needs a slightly different approach, he said.
“ ABOVE ALL ELSE, SAFETY IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF THE JOB. ”
In the penguin and polar bear pools, water can be kept as low as 45 degrees, so divers need to learn to keep moving and wear extra equipment to stay warm. A diver will wear a thick, warm layer beneath their wetsuit along with socks, gloves and a hood to cover their head.
In other areas, diving alongside the animals takes some getting used to.
In Anheuser-Busch Hippo Harbor, for example, the hippos aren’t in the pool during dives for safety, but the Dive Team does swim alongside a school of cichlid fish that also call the hippo habitat home.
“They are territorial,” Smith said. “They have nests, and they will sometimes challenge us or the vacuum, so we have to learn to be very careful not to damage the nest or them when they get close.”
Apart from the training, the Dive Team holds regular drills and safety workshops to make sure divers are prepared for emergency rescues.
Smith said, above all else, safety is the most important part of the job.
“It prevents us from having to worry about ‘what if?” he said.
It takes two dive TO
Prep for dives often starts the night before. Divers will often set out their gear at the end of the workday inside dive lockers, areas set aside for the Dive Team near each large water habitat.
Divers often arrive before the Zoo opens and strap into equipment that includes masks, wetsuits, fins and weights, together weighing between 10 to 15% of their body weight, not including their SCUBA tanks.
For diver safety, at least two certified divers take part in every dive — a lead diver and a backup.
In most cases, divers use underwater vacuums to suction up droppings, food particles and other debris to keep the water healthy and clean.
While they’re in the water, divers also often switch out enrichment items, like floating pool toys, for added interest for the animals.
After about 45 minutes to an hour of work, divers leave the pool, clean their equipment and finally take warm showers.
“Between managing all the equipment and the dive itself, it can be exhausting,” Hamberg said. “That’s why we work on a rotation, so every diver is on the schedule about once a month.”
But for all the Dive Team’s hard work making the Zoo’s aquatic habitats both healthy for animals and beautiful for guests, there are some perks to the role.
“The SCUBA certification is just a great thing to have,” said Smith. “I know some keepers have gone on tropical vacations together where they’ve gotten to dive together in the ocean.”
“ SO MANY OF GUESTS’ FAVORITE HABITATS HERE WOULDN’T BE POSSIBLE WITHOUT THEM. ”
Smith added that he’s thankful there is a team of so many keepers who bring a positive attitude to the important
Above: “Hello down there!”
Divers seen at the Judy and Jerry Kent Family Sea Lion Sound
The scoop on poop
By Rebecca McMiller, Marketing Communications Manager
Everybody poops. While many humans feel embarrassed about excrement, the Saint Louis Zoo’s scientists consider this resource from the animals to be “black gold.”
A fecal sample can reveal many things about the animal’s health. In the Zoo’s Endocrinology Lab, scientists Corinne Kozlowski and Helen Clawitter examine approximately 8,000 samples a year and ensure that the knowledge we can glean from animal waste is never wasted.
The process of collecting feces is straightforward; keepers clean animals’ habitats regularly. (The Zoo sends 2.3 million pounds of animal waste, bedding and landscape material to compost each year!) If the Animal Care team suspects an animal is pregnant or would like to investigate another health issue, they’ll collect
feces in a plastic bag; note the date and animal’s name; and send the sample to the Endocrinology Lab, where it’s stored in a freezer.
“We typically work with non-invasive samples from animals; other than fecal samples, we measure hormones from urine, feathers and hair,” said Kozlowski, the Zoo’s Endocrinologist. “These can be collected without disturbing the animals.”
When Kozlowski and Clawitter, the Zoo’s Endocrinology Lab Technician, are ready to test a fecal sample, they thaw it and place a small amount of poop into a vial with a buffer and solvent (methanol) to extract the hormones. Opening a frozen bag of poo is not without a little humor.
“If keepers need to collect feces from an animal that lives within a social group, sometimes they’ll put safe, digestible glitter into the animal’s food, so they know whose poop to pick up,” Kozlowski said.
Once the mixture is ready, the sample is put on a shaker table, where it’s shaken overnight to completely break down the feces. Then, the liquid part is poured off and spun in a centrifuge to remove fine particulate matter, such as grass. This liquid part is frozen in a -80-degree Celsius freezer until the team is ready to measure hormone levels.
The most-frequent animal health topics that Kozlowski and Clawitter investigate are reproduction and animal well-being.
Endocrinologist Corinne Kozlowski places a box of elephant serum samples in a lab freezer
Endocrinology Lab Technician Helen Clawitter extracts fecal samples in the lab
Pregnancy and fertility
The hormones measured for fertility are typically progesterone, estrogen and testosterone, which can be measured in both fecal and blood samples. The Zoo’s Endocrinology Lab team, which includes Kozlowski, Clawitter and interns, has confirmed pregnancies and characterized reproductive cycles in more than 30 species.
“For some animals, like Asian elephants, it can be difficult to determine if a female is pregnant because the physical signs of pregnancy may take several months to show,” Kozlowski said. “Knowing about a pregnancy soon after conception allows Zoo staff to plan for new arrivals by providing the mother-to-be with additional food, bedding material and care she will need for a safe delivery.”
A sample processed in the Endocrinology Lab was the first line of evidence that Asian elephant Jade was expecting her first calf. She is due in late 2024 or early 2025.
“It was happy news to share,” Clawitter said. “Because Jade was artificially inseminated, we were very involved in her reproductive planning. We measured her hormone levels prior to insemination and let her care team know what her peak fertility days would be.”
Stress and animal welfare
Throughout animals’ lives, they likely will face changes, including moving to a new habitat or new zoo entirely, starting a new routine with caretakers, or joining a new social group. This can cause an animal to feel some temporary stress. The Endocrinology Lab is a resource to the Animal Care team, and Kozlowski and Clawitter can check animals’ cortisol and corticosterone levels (the “stress hormones”).
“Short-term stress is normal and even healthy because this helps an animal adapt to its surroundings,” Kozlowski said. “However, if our data indicate longer-term stress, then the Animal Care team can make the appropriate changes to support the animal.”
As of this writing, the Endocrinology Lab team is monitoring cortisol levels from the Zoo’s bachelor group of western lowland gorillas. Two juvenile gorillas, Zachary and Kayin, are being introduced to Bakari, now the dominant gorilla in the group.
An invaluable resource for animal conservation
The Saint Louis Zoo is one of only a few zoos in the country with a lab able to analyze hormones. In addition to the 2,000 fecal samples a year they receive from animals at the Saint Louis Zoo, Kozlowski and Clawitter analyze approximately 6,000 samples a year
from other zoos, universities and conservation organizations.
“We’ve received samples from conservation biologists studying the health and stress levels of freeranging wildlife,” Kozlowski said. “By measuring levels of cortisol and hormones associated with thyroid function, we can help pinpoint correlations between changes in stress and nutrition to changes in their environment, such as human disturbances.”
The Endocrinology Lab also is at the forefront of new research. Clawitter has a clinical interest in furthering reproductive science for reptiles.
“Mammals have been a big focus for reproductive research, and they’re easier to study because, unlike snakes, they poop regularly,” she said. “I’m excited to see how we can use snakes’ shed skins to measure hormone levels and use that information to support endangered populations.”
Thanks to the efforts of the Endocrinology Lab team, animal experts have access to the latest reproductive science and can best ensure superior animal welfare.
“Poop is never in short supply at the Zoo, and it offers a unique window into the animals’ lives,” Kozlowski said. “Knowing we have a hand in conserving animals and endangered species around the world is incredibly rewarding.”
Left: Animal dung is placed into a container for testing
Celebrating 20 years: the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute
By Elizabeth (Lisa) Kelley, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute;
We’re celebrating a remarkable milestone this year: the 20th anniversary of the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute, our wildlife conservation branch.
The Saint Louis Zoo has been involved in field conservation since the late 1980s. It was in 2004, however, that the WildCare Institute was founded, thanks to a generous $19 million endowment from the Saint Louis Zoo Association. This funding is dedicated specifically to the Zoo’s field conservation efforts.
The core of the WildCare Institute is its Centers, which are led by members of our Zoo team. All Centers work with partners — non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and consortiums, government agencies, communities, universities, and other zoos and botanical gardens — to help achieve conservation goals.
Here are examples of how the WildCare Institute’s conservation efforts have thrived over the past 20 years ...
Scimitar-horned oryx downlisted from “extinct in the wild” to “endangered”
Over 600 animals were roaming Chad by the end of 2023. The Zoo has been the U.S-based headquarters of Sahara Conservation since 2007, the umbrella organization conducting this work.
12,000 Zoo-raised hellbenders released back into Missouri’s river systems
The Ron and Karen Goellner Center for Hellbender Conservation has won five major awards for its collaborative efforts with Missouri Department of Conservation and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for this conservation work.
Motion passed to build capacity for invasive species management in Madagascar
Invasive species in Madagascar are a critical threat to the native wildlife of this island country, so this motion, co-sponsored by the Zoo and passed by voting members at the International Union for Conservation of Nature
World Conservation Congress in 2020, was a big conservation win. The Center for Conservation in Madagascar reflects over 35 years of conservation engagement through its leadership in the Madagascar Fauna and Flora Group (MFG) consortium. The primary reserve managed by the MFG is one of just a few sites in Madagascar where forest cover is increasing in size!
16 Indigenous tribes, nations and groups have partnered on pollinator initiatives
In 2016, the Center for Native Pollinator Conservation established the Native Foods, Native Peoples, Native Pollinators initiative. The Center team continues to work with Indigenous communities to restore and enhance habitat for pollinators and other wildlife on native lands.
Formal habitat protections granted
Habitat loss is a threat for many species, but through the efforts of several WildCare Institute Centers and
Photos by Ray Meibaum, Natalia Mroz and James Ward
partners, areas of land have received formal protections. Areas include the Abovyon ridge in Armenia; Djeke Triangle in the Republic of Congo; Punta San Juan, Peru; and Termit and Tin-Toumma National Nature Reserve in Niger, the largest protected area in Africa.
Endangered birds translocated to “safe islands” to preserve their species
The Center for Avian Conservation in the Pacific Islands reflects 25 years of field conservation, working along with Pacific Bird Conservation, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Division of Fish and Wildlife, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. To date, this team has completed 11 different translocations of five species to three recipient islands.
Communities in Africa empowered to engage in conservation
The Center for Conservation in the Horn of Africa has long invested in extensive community capacity programs through two major NGOs: Grevy’s Zebra Trust and Northern Rangelands Trust. These programs have empowered women and entire communities to engage in conservation efforts on their land. Despite years
of drought in Kenya, the Grevy’s zebra population has stabilized due to dedicated community monitoring and grassland restoration efforts.
Teams discovered novel viruses in turtles and tortoises
The Center for Chelonian Conservation team has discovered novel pathogens and other anthropogenic threats (changes in nature made by people) to turtle and tortoise species globally. In Missouri, the team was the first to identify Mycoplasma sp. and ranavirus in free-living three-toed box turtles in Missouri. Both infectious agents are of high conservation concern in many populations of box turtles. In Galapagos, the team identified the presence of novel viruses in free-living giant tortoises.
6,000 critically endangered American burying beetles released in Missouri and Ohio
Since 2004, the Center for American Burying Beetle Conservation team has reared over 14,000 beetles, reintroducing close to 6,000 of them. Our reintroduction efforts have not only revealed thriving offspring, but they have raised awareness of the importance of invertebrates in our ecosystems.
“Early warning system” established in Galapagos to prevent the spread of avian diseases
From 2001 to 2023, the Center for Avian Health in the Galapagos was a coordinated collaboration with the University of Missouri–St. Louis Whitney R. Harris World Ecology Center, Galapagos National Park, and the Charles Darwin Foundation. Work conducted through this Center led to policy changes and the establishment of an “early warning system” based on long-term disease monitoring of Galapagos birds to prevent the spread of avian diseases. Its successes resulted in the Zoo winning the prestigious World Association of Zoos and Aquariums Conservation Award in 2022.
The 20th anniversary of the WildCare Institute is a celebration of the Zoo and its community’s devotion to wildlife. This community includes the expansive global network of like-minded people who have dedicated vast amounts of their time, resources and livelihoods to make these achievements possible. The achievements made under the WildCare Institute umbrella will continue well beyond careers and lifetimes. We are grateful.
Zoo team members release American burying beetles in a prairie
A golden white-eye receives some care from Bird Keeper Mallory Balsat
Justin Elden, Curator of Herpetology, and Armenian herpetologist Levon Aghasyan, Ph.D., collect data on an Armenian viper
the happenings
Details are subject to change. Please visit stlzoo.org for the latest information.
Join us as we kick off Zootoberfest with an adults-only beer tasting event! Don your lederhosen and sample beers from around the world while enjoying traditional German music from a local polka band, followed by a DJ. Prost! Sponsored by Urban Chestnut Brewing Company and Essence Healthcare. Learn more and purchase tickets at stlzoo.org.
Zootoberfest
Dates: Saturdays and Sundays, Sept. 28-29 and Oct. 5-6, 2024
Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Price: Free
Enjoy a Zoo-themed, family-friendly Oktoberfest! Take advantage of cooler weather and visit the Zoo’s animals, exhibits and attractions. Sponsored by Urban Chestnut Brewing Company and Essence Healthcare. Learn more at stlzoo.org.
Boo at the Zoo presented by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital
Dates and Member Prices:
Oct. 10-13: $12
Oct. 14 (Sensory-Friendly Night): $10
Oct. 15-17: $10
Oct. 18-30: $12
Children under age 2 are free
Join us for the Zoo’s non-scary, kid-friendly Halloween event. Sponsored by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital, Mid America Chevy Dealers, Prairie Farms Dairy, Wells Fargo, Caleres and The Goddard School. Learn more and purchase tickets at stlzoo.org.
Build First Aid Kits at the Zoo
Dates: Thursdays through Oct. 31, 2024
Time: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Price: Free
St. Louis Children’s Hospital will be at the Zoo helping young guests build first aid kits. Stop by the St. Louis Children’s Hospital First Aid Station (near the Mary Ann Lee Conservation Carousel).
Zoo Dunnit? A Mystery Dinner
Date: Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024
Time: 6 to 9 p.m.
Price: Visit stlzoo.org; pre-paid reservations are required. Free parking.
Age: Adults 21+
Come to the Zoo for an interactive mystery dinner, featuring a threecourse meal. Themed costumes are encouraged; however, costume masks and face paint are prohibited. Learn more and purchase tickets at stlzoo.org.
happenings
Holiday
Zootique
Dates: Friday, Nov. 8, 2024 Price: Free
Get a jump on holiday shopping and find unique, conservation-oriented gifts you can’t find anywhere else. Zoo members receive special discounts! Learn more at stlzoo.org.
Stingrays at Caribbean Cove presented by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital
Dates: Through Nov. 10, 2024
Member Price: Included in premium member tickets; Children under age 2 are free
Guests can enjoy a hands-on opportunity to touch and feed these gentle ocean creatures.
Wild Lights presented by Commerce Bank
Dates and Member Prices:
Nov. 29-30: $12
Dec. 1: $12
Dec. 5-8: $12
Dec. 9 (Sensory-Friendly Night): $11
Dec. 11-23: $15
Dec. 26-29: $12
Children under age 2 are free
Enjoy the Zoo decked out for the holidays! Sponsored by Commerce Bank, Mid America Chevy Dealers, Prairie Farms Dairy, Coca-Cola, and Spire. Check back to stlzoo.org to purchase tickets.
Breakfast with Santa
Dates: Nov. 30, Dec. 1, 7-8, 14-15, 2024
Price and Seating Times: Visit stlzoo.org for seating times; pre-paid reservations are required. Children under age 2 are free, and parking is free.
Festive holiday breakfast buffet includes a photo opportunity with Santa, a gift for kids and visits from costumed characters. Check back to stlzoo.org to purchase tickets.
Dinner with Santa
Dates: Dec. 16-18, 21, 2024
Price and Seating Times: Visit stlzoo.org for seating times; pre-paid reservations are required. Children under age 2 are free, and parking is free.
Enjoy a dinner buffet hosted by Santa Claus and friends, including costumed characters, a Santa meetand-greet, photo opportunities and a special gift chosen by Santa’s helpers. Wild Lights admission is included in Dinner with Santa reservations (weather permitting). Check back to stlzoo.org to purchase tickets.
Hours
Sept. 3 – Oct. 7, 2024
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sept. 27, 2024
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Sept. 26, Oct. 8 – Dec. 30, 2024
9 a.m. – 4 p.m. daily, except holidays
Holiday Hours:
Nov. 28: Thanksgiving Day
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Dec. 24: Christmas Eve
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Dec. 25: Christmas Day Zoo closed
Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Jumping stick
education programs
2025 Programs
Early Childhood Programs
Children must be accompanied by an adult. Fees are listed PER CHILD. All Early Childhood programs are designed for you and your child to learn about animals and explore the natural world together. We encourage you to interact with and help facilitate the learning of the registered program participant. Programs are interactive and may include songs and stories, art opportunities, role-playing games, hands-on investigations and more. In order to best serve all of our Early Childhood participants, unregistered children may not participate in the programs.
FOR CHILDREN AGES 6–12 MONTHS
NOTE: These programs are designed for caregivers to interact with and help facilitate the learning of the registered program participant. In order to best serve all of our Early Childhood participants, unregistered children may not participate in the programs.
Limited to 14 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child. Fee: Zoo Members $28/General Public $31.
Wee Wild Ones
Explore animal movements with your little one, while learning new songs and activities to try at home. Bring your strollers, wraps and carriers for a walk around the Zoo to look for animals.
C0223WW: Feb. 23 (Su); 9-10 a.m.
FOR CHILDREN AGES 12–24 MONTHS
NOTE: These programs are designed for caregivers to interact with and help facilitate the learning of the registered program participant. In order to best serve all of our Early Childhood participants, unregistered children may not participate in the programs.
Limited to 14 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child. Fee: Zoo Members $28/General Public $31.
Nature Tots
Join us as we play in the mud, build with sticks and learn other fun ways to explore nature! Weather permitting, this class will be held outdoors at the Zoo.
C0330NT: March 30 (Su); 9-10 a.m.
Swimming Safari
Come learn about the animals that call water their home. We’ll have a splash as we sing songs and dive into exploring awesome aquatic animals!
C0510SS: May 10 (Sa); 9-10 a.m.
FOR CHILDREN AGES 2–3
NOTE: These programs are designed for caregivers to interact with and help facilitate the learning of the registered program participant. In order to best serve all of our Early Childhood participants, unregistered children may not participate in the programs.
Limited to 14 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child. Fee: Zoo Members $28/General Public $31.
Spring Fling
Buds are blooming, birds are building nests, the world is waking up from a winter sleep! Kick off spring by discovering how animals celebrate the season through songs, stories and animal activities.
C0322SF: March 22 (Sa); 9-10 a.m.
Trucks, Trains and Airplanes
Ants march in a train, cheetahs run fast like a race car and dung beetles push balls of poop like bulldozers. Join us as we play with cars, trucks and trains, while exploring what they have in common with animals.
C0427TT: April 27 (Su); 9-10 a.m.
Cool Canids
Calling all cubs, pups and kits! Dig into the dens of canids at the Zoo and in the wild. We will explore foxes, endangered red wolves and painted dogs, as we discover how they are similar to and different from our own pet dogs.
C0517CC: May 17 (Sa); 9-10 a.m.
FOR CHILDREN AGES 3–5
NOTE: These programs are designed for caregivers to interact with and help facilitate the learning of the registered program participant. In order to best serve all of our Early Childhood participants, unregistered children may not participate in the programs.
Limited to 14 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child. Fee: Zoo Members $30/General Public $33.
Whiskers, Claws and Paws
Pounce into the world of wild cats, as we explore where they live, how they communicate and more. Weather permitting, we will visit Big Cat Country to learn all about our Zoo’s big cats!
C0302WC: March 2 (Su); 9-10:30 a.m.
Eggcellent Adventures
See who’s hatching in the animal world. We’ll explore amazing eggs, from slimy salamanders to marvelous monotremes, like the platypus. We’ll even make a few egg creations of our own to take home.
C0412EA: April 12 (Sa); 9-10:30 a.m.
Bear Necessities
Join us for a “bear-y” fun adventure! We’ll learn all about bears and how they live. Then, we’ll take a walk to visit the bears that call the Saint Louis Zoo home.
C0504BN: May 4 (Su); 9-10:30 a.m.
Camp Programs
Youth attend these programs on their own, unaccompanied by a parent or other adult.
SCHOOL BREAK CAMPS FOR STUDENTS IN GRADES 1–5
Spring Break Camp: Super Senses
When school is on break, you can spend the day at the Saint Louis Zoo! Join our educators to learn about animals and conservation. Each day of camp will have crafts, games, Zoo tours and a whole lot of FUN!
Presidents’ Day Camp: Colorful Critters
Color can be seen all around us in nature, especially when looking at the animals. Come spend this day learning about all things color as they relate to wildlife. Campers will tap into their own creative wild side and will be sure to bring an array of colorful artwork home with them! Add After-Care for an additional fee.
Limited to 20 participants. Fee: Zoo Members $66/General Public $73.
Y0217PD: Feb. 17 (M); 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Presidents’ Day Camp After-Care
Participants will enjoy various activities building on their camp experience. This program is for Presidents’ Day Camp participants only.
Limited to 20 participants. Fee: Zoo Members $22/General Public $24.
Y0217PM: Feb. 17 (M); 3-6 p.m.
Ever wonder how cats can see at night? Or how snakes smell with their tongues? Many animals have super senses to help them survive in their habitats. We will explore the fascinating world of the animal senses of sight, hearing, smell, touch and taste! We’ll meet animals with extreme abilities, do experiments to learn how our senses work and create fun animal crafts. Add After-Care for an additional fee.
Limited to 20 participants. Fee: Zoo Members $345/General Public $370.
Y0317SB: March 17-21 (M-F); 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Spring Break Camp After-Care Participants will enjoy various activities building on their camp experience. This program is for Spring Break Camp participants only.
Limited to 20 participants. Fee: Zoo Members $110/General Public $120.
Y0317PM: March 17-21 (M-F); 3-6 p.m.
Spring Holiday Camp:
Hatch into Springtime
Have you heard the sounds of spring starting? The birds are chirping as they return from their winter journeys! Join us on this fun day of camp crafts, games and animal tours to learn all about our feathered friends at the Zoo and in our backyards. Add After-Care for an additional fee.
Limited to 20 participants. Fee: Zoo Members $66/General Public $73.
Y0418SH: April 18 (F); 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Spring Holiday Camp After-Care
Participants will enjoy various activities building on their camp experience. This program is for Spring Holiday Camp participants only.
Limited to 20 participants. Fee: Zoo Members $22/General Public $24.
Y0418PM: April 18 (F); 3-6 p.m.
Scout and Youth Group Programs
The Education Department offers many opportunities for scouts and other organized youth groups to enjoy the Zoo and learn about the animal world. Programs may include biofacts, activities, games, tours or crafts. We offer a variety of programs that help scouts work toward their badge requirements! Your group will have fun together while learning about animals, their habitats and conserving natural resources. Visit the website for the scout registration packet. For more information, contact the Overnight Staff at overnights@stlzoo.org.
Nocturnal Safari Snooze
What goes on when the sun goes down? Or better yet, who comes out? Come to the Zoo and explore the awesome world of nocturnal animals. We will learn about their unique adaptations and even test them against our own abilities. This program will also let us see some of our Zoo’s nocturnal animals after the sun goes down and find out what they do all night long. So, join us and find out about the unique animals that are up at night!
Overnight evening activities will include rotations through exciting activities, an evening snack and a night hike around Zoo grounds. The morning portion of the overnight adventure includes a continental breakfast, a morning stroll around Zoo grounds to see the animals wake up, a souvenir Zoo patch and a glow-in-the-dark overnight cup! Limited to 60 participants per session. Fee: $50/participant.
education programs
2025 Programs
For Girl Scout Brownies and their adult chaperones
March 1-2; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)
April 4-5; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)
April 18-19; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)
For Girl Scout Juniors and their adult chaperones
March 14-15; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)
April 12-13; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)
April 25-26; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)
For Cadettes and their adult chaperones
April 11-12; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)
For Cub Scouts and their adult chaperones
March 7-8; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)
April 26-27; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)
For Mixed Troops and their adult chaperones
March 29-30; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)
PRIVATE GROUP OVERNIGHT PROGRAMS
For organized scout, youth and school groups with participants ages 5 and up, you can schedule your own private group overnight on select evenings. Using the themes we are currently offering, we will tailor the program to meet your needs. Fees are listed PER PERSON. Complete the booking request form. For more information, contact the Overnight Staff at overnights@stlzoo.org.
Polar Bear Plunge
Limited to 20 participants, 12 participant minimum. Fee: $75/participant.
Nocturnal Safari
Limited to 60 participants, 30 participant minimum. Fee: $50/participant.
Family Programs
Parents and children attend these programs together. A minimum of one adult must accompany the group. Fees are PER PERSON.
Polar Bear Plunge
Join us for this amazing opportunity to sleep inside Polar Bear Point! We will explore the Zoo at night while learning about Arctic and Antarctic animals and their unique adaptations that allow them to live in the cold. We will end the night by laying out sleeping bags inside the underwater viewing building. You will awake with a view of the polar bear pool and hopefully with a view of Kali! The overnight includes an evening snack, a reusable cup and a continental breakfast in the morning.
For families with children ages 5 and up. Limited to 20 participants. Fee: Zoo Members $70/General Public $75.
N0308PB: March 8-9; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)
Lifestyles of the Enriched and Famous Walk the red carpet and meet a few of the Saint Louis Zoo’s most famous residents and get a glimpse into their fascinating lives. Share the celebrity gossip and see how we enrich the lives of all of our animals. For families with children ages 8 and up. Limited to 20 participants. Fee: $20/person.
I0610LF: June 10 (Tu); 1-2:15 p.m.
Career Day Programs
For youth entering 2nd–8th grades. Youth can attend these programs on their own or with an accompanied registered parent or other adult. All participants must be registered. Fees are PER PERSON. Visit stlzoo.org/tours for availability, fees and to register.
NOTE: We do not recommend these programs for participants with shellfish allergies. Please mention any latex allergies at the time of registration.
A Day with the Rays
Join the Saint Louis Zoo’s team of keepers by participating in A Day with the Rays! As an aquatics keeper for the day, you will jump right in to help prepare diets and maintain the habitat to keep it looking nice and the animals healthy. As the new expert, you will help guests learn about our exhibit, how to touch and feed the stingrays, and touch the sharks. Please wear a T-shirt, khaki or jean shorts, and old closed-toe shoes. Bring a bottle of water and a camera. A Saint Louis Zoo name tag, T-shirt and snack will be provided. Get wet, smell like fish and have a ton of fun with A Day with the Rays!
Limited to four participants per session. See the current availability at stlzoo.org/tours.
Advanced Day with the Rays
Dive deeper into the science and career of an aquatics keeper. In this second program, you will continue building your knowledge by participating with animal husbandry duties. Once the daily tasks are accomplished, you will explore fish and cephalopod biology, perform advanced marine water quality monitoring, and, of course, have some time for fun and games. It’s time to show off all that you learned from last time as well as pick up a few new tricks along the way. Please wear a T-shirt (your Day with the Rays shirt is a great choice), khaki or jean shorts, and old closed-toe shoes. Bring a bottle of water and a camera. A snack will be provided. Get wet, smell like fish and have even more fishy fun with Advanced Day with the Rays! Participants must have attended A Day with the Rays.
For youth entering 2nd–8th grades who have attended A Day with the Rays. A parent or adult can register to accompany the participant. Limited to four participants per session. See the current availability at stlzoo.org/tours.
Adult Programs Ages 18
Escape the Zoo:
WildCare Institute Edition
Make your way around the Zoo, finding clues and solving puzzles as you learn all about the field work of our WildCare Institute. Discover the keys to saving species in Forest Park and around the world. Does your team have what it takes to support the WildCare Institute and escape before time runs out? Build your team of up to 10 individuals ages 18 and up.
I0415EZ: April 15 (Tu); 5:30-7 p.m.
I0617EZ: June 17 (Tu); 6-7:30 p.m.
I0708EZ: July 8 (Tu); 6-7:30 p.m.
I0812EZ: Aug. 12 (Tu); 6-7:30 p.m.
I0909EZ: Sept. 9 (Tu); 5:30-7 p.m.
Limited to 10 participants PER TEAM. Fees are PER TEAM. Maximum of three teams per session. Fee: Zoo Members
Back to the Future Edition
Travel through history and experience the evolution of the Saint Louis Zoo. Solve the puzzles of the past to unlock the excitement of the future. It is a race against the clock, but the clock is generous, so take in the sights and sounds of the Zoo in this escape room-style adventure. Build your team of up to 10 individuals, ages 18 and up.
Limited to 10 participants PER TEAM. Fees are PER TEAM. Maximum of three teams per session. Fee: Zoo Members $225/General Public $245.
I0311E2: March 11 (Tu); 5:30-7:30 p.m.
I0520E2: May 20 (Tu); 6-8 p.m.
I0624E2: June 24 (Tu); 6-8 p.m.
I0722E2: July 22 (Tu); 6-8 p.m.
I0819E2: Aug. 19 (Tu); 6-8 p.m.
The Seasons of the Zoo
Come see the Zoo throughout the year. Each tour will highlight a different area and its seasonal happenings. See what the animals are up to each season and how we adjust our care throughout the year.
For participants ages 18 and up. Limited to 20 participants. Fee: $20/person.
I1012SZ: Oct. 12 (Sa); 10-11:15 a.m.
I0111SZ: Jan. 11 (Sa); 10-11:15 a.m.
I0412SZ: April 12 (Sa); 10-11:15 a.m.
I0712SZ: July 12 (Sa); 10-11:15 a.m.
ADULT OVERNIGHT PROGRAMS
Adults aged 18 and up can schedule their own private group overnight on select evenings. Using the current themes, we will tailor the program to meet your needs.
Polar Bear Plunge
Join us for this amazing opportunity to sleep inside Polar Bear Point! You will talk with Zoo staff about how we help animals all over the world and then team up to solve a scavenger hunt. After a night hike, we will end the night by laying out sleeping bags inside the underwater viewing building. You will awake with a view of the polar bear pool and hopefully with a view of Kali! This overnight includes a catered dinner and continental breakfast.
For participants ages 18 and up. Limited to 20 participants. Fees are listed PER PERSON. See the current availability at stlzoo.org. Fee: Zoo Members $75/ General Public $80.
For organized adult groups, you can schedule your own private group overnight on select evenings. Using the current themes, we will tailor the program to meet your needs. Complete the booking request form. For more information and pricing, please contact the Overnight Staff at overnights@stlzoo.org.
REGISTRATION: Please see Education Registration information on our website. Camp programs: Registration closes three weeks before the program start date. All other programs: Registration closes two weeks before the program start date. PAYMENT: Complete payment is required at the time of registration. CANCELLATIONS: Advanced notice is required for all cancellation/refund requests. A refund minus a processing fee will be issued for all program cancellations. Three weeks’ notice is required to cancel any camp program. Two weeks’ notice is required to cancel all other programs. We reserve the right to cancel a program due to low enrollment (full refund will be issued). TRANSFERS: Transfers are subject to availability, and a processing fee will apply. Three weeks’ notice is required to transfer any camp programs. Two weeks’ notice is required to transfer all other programs. Visit the website for updated cancellation/refund and transfer fees. CONFIRMATIONS: A Registration Report will be e-mailed after your registration is processed. For more information, please contact the Education Department at (314) 646-4544, option #6
Spectacled owl
Empowering youth: community, conservation and connection
By Laura Seger, Manager of Learning Experiences
From dressing like a shark, to weeding flower beds, to helping guests understand the environmental benefits of reusable bags, Zoo ALIVE volunteers do it all. Over the last two decades, more than 600 teens have participated in the Saint Louis Zoo’s teen volunteer program, called Zoo ALIVE (Active Leaders In Volunteer Education). They have volunteered 136,400 hours, and the estimated value of this volunteer time is $4.5 million.
Teens earn service hours and learn leadership skills and responsibilities, conservation messaging, and science communication. Additionally, they explore how to live sustainably and advocate for conservation issues. Former volunteer, Eric Hartel, shared, “I’m a dyslexic ADHD master’s graduate. I would never have had the confidence or self-advocacy skills needed to do that without Zoo ALIVE.”
Volunteers are also exposed to a variety of career opportunities, including hands-on experiences, like caring for and helping to release endangered American burying beetles. They may also take part in international ecology courses and seasonal camping trips. Former volunteer and current entomologist at the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House, Nicole Pruess, explained, “Zoo ALIVE changed/shaped my life, and I think I would be in a different place if I hadn’t been a volunteer. It was one of the most impactful experiences of my life; it gave
me so many things: close friends, a deep appreciation for nature and my career.”
The Zoo in turn receives thousands of volunteer hours and help with education programs, events, conservation campaigns and more. The Zoo also benefits from future generations of critical thinkers who are scientifically literate and engaged citizens, committed to advocating for conservation issues.
One of Zoo ALIVE’s core values is community. The deep relationships volunteers develop with their peers, their bonds with trusted adults and their sense of connection to the Zoo all have produced lasting impact. Sydney Barneson, former volunteer and Zoo Conservation Education Department Educator, said, “Zoo ALIVE is where I found my community and shared interests with my peers when I was in deep need of connection. In short, Zoo ALIVE has been the single most formative experience in my 27 years of life. I will be forever grateful for the unique experiences, connections formed and life advice given.”
2024 marks the 20th anniversary of the Zoo ALIVE program. Our team in the Zoo’s Conservation Education Department is excited to reflect on the program’s success and plan for the future, which includes initiating a study to examine Zoo ALIVE’s impact. We’re proud of our Zoo ALIVE volunteers and look forward to celebrating this anniversary with them.
Zoo ALIVE volunteers take part in many service projects and activities, such as (from top to bottom): hosting #byetobags tables; helping at Zoo events, like Shark Week; and participating in camping and hiking trips.
ZOOFARI 2024: A party with a purpose
By Amy Zentgraf, Director, Corporate and Board Relations
ZOOFARI 2024 presented by Wells Fargo was held on the beautiful evening of Friday, June 21, in celebration of our featured animal, the Humboldt penguin. More than 2,000 members of the community came together to raise over $895,000 in support of the Saint Louis Zoo’s mission of conserving animals and their habitats here in Missouri and in the wild.
Over 35 St. Louis restaurants, along with the Zoo’s talented catering team, served delicious bites across the Zoo, including short ribs, ceviche, tacos and ice cream. Under the cool night sky, event guests sipped on refreshing libations and listened to live music from the evening’s main stage entertainment, national cover band Maggie Speaks Big Band.
Attendees also enjoyed interactive special fundraising activities including
the Kendra Scott Color Bar™, a wine and spirits pull, bourbon tasting, a silent auction, a local restaurant gift card wall funded by Wells Fargo, and the new bubbly wall!
We’re elated to continue bringing this innovative ZOOFARI experience to the St. Louis community each year. Thank you to our supporters for their help in making the Zoo’s largest fundraiser a great success once again. The Zoo is able to remain one of the best zoos for the world because of their dedication.
We would like to give a special thank-you to Wells Fargo for their continuous support of the Zoo’s largest fundraiser, and their additional gift of $15,000 to celebrate 15 years of their sponsorship of ZOOFARI and the former A Zoo Ado.
We wish to extend our appreciation to all our premier sponsors:
• Wells Fargo
• Kevin Beckmann Charitable Trust at YouthBridge Community Foundation
• U.S. Bank
• World Wide Technology
• Anheuser-Busch
• Bayer
• Mid America Chevy Dealers
Mark your calendars for ZOOFARI on June 20, 2025!
Maggie Speaks Big Band performs a range of classic hits
Right: Wells Fargo check presentation (Left to right: Joanne Carey Esfahani and ZOOFARI Co-Chairs Kip Bilderback and Pamela Glaser)
Guests enjoy a bourbon tasting
Promoting sustainable palm oil with Bunge North America
By Hannah G. Stater, Partnership Marketing Coordinator
Palm oil is a common ingredient in many household products and grocery items. Some entities harvest palm oil in a way that’s bad for animals, like Sumatran orangutans — it ultimately destroys their rainforest homes. But others grow African oil palm trees, where palm oil comes from, in a way that’s safe for animals and the rainforest. The Saint Louis Zoo shares the importance of sustainable palm oil with guests and is proud to partner with Bunge North America on its palm oil educational efforts.
Bunge North America — a company that connects farmers
to consumers to deliver food, feed and fuel to the world — is a member of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) and has supported the Zoo’s palm oil education efforts for years.
To spread the message about how palm oil production affects animals, the Zoo’s Conservation Education team distributes palm oil information cards and facilitates activities at events. Halloween is prime time to talk about palm oil, considering it is often present in candy, so educators and palm oil activities are often present at Boo at the Zoo
presented by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital.
Our team at the Zoo is thankful to have educational support from Bunge North America. Spreading the word about sustainable palm oil is truly a group effort, and we’re happy to call Bunge a partner.
In the future, funds from this partnership will be used to update palm oil educational signage across Zoo grounds, further advocating for the use of sustainable palm oil and the conservation of rainforest species.
Forest, currently the youngest Sumatran orangutan at the Zoo
Kids decorate eco-friendly Halloween bags at the Zoo as part of a sustainable palm oil activity
Walsh Family Fund helps preserve the Zoo’s historic structures
By Robin Kraujalis, Manager, Planned Gifts
For Wendy and James Walsh, the Saint Louis Zoo is not just a family tradition, but a passion. “We grew up coming here, and keeping it free has always been important to us,” Wendy said.
Over the years, they have visited “countless times” with their own children. James recalled bringing their son Robert within a week of adopting him. “He has always loved it,” James said. “It’s his favorite place on Earth.” During the Zoo’s busy season, Robert works on the Zoo’s grounds maintenance crew, and in the winter, he volunteers at the Bayer Insectarium, where he can share his knowledge of invertebrates, his favorite animals.
History is another passion for the Walsh family. James and Wendy’s daughter Kathleen is a Ph.D. student at Washington University in St. Louis, focusing on Central European history.
In St. Louis, she is particularly interested in how European immigrants shaped our culture and institutions, including the 1904 World’s Fair, where the seeds for the Zoo were planted.
Our 1904 Flight Cage, originally built by the Smithsonian for the Fair, was purchased by the City of St. Louis and remained a standalone attraction until the formal establishment of the Zoo a few
years later. James also has an interest in history and leads tours at the Cathedral Basilica in the Central West End.
They decided to establish the Walsh Family Historic Preservation Fund to honor their family’s longstanding ties with the Zoo and to help preserve its most beloved historic structures. It will also help maintain the Insectarium and future invertebrate habitats.
With the help of families like the Walshes, the Zoo will continue to be a jewel in the crown of our city for generations to come.
Robert Walsh in front of the Bayer Insectarium James and Wendy Walsh
Marlin Perkins Society
The Saint Louis Zoo is extremely fortunate to have the support of more than 1,300 generous individuals, foundations and corporations through the Marlin Perkins Society. We welcome our newest members to the Society and thank them for joining this wonderful group of supporters. To our current members who have increased their financial support, we are pleased to recognize you as well. We are grateful for your commitment to our mission.
New Marlin Perkins
Society Members
May 1 – July 31, 2024
Carol & Robert Beck
Bonnie & Mark Goldenberg
Michael & Sandra Hagenhoff
Jean & Gary Hively
Margaret & Thomas Hollis
Instinct Pet Food
Paislee & Wyatt Kern
David & Gayle Lazaroff
Julie & Jeffrey Lazaroff
Ronald & Eva Lovett
John & Susan Moore
Kathleen Musca & Terrence Dearth
Current Marlin Perkins
Society Members Who Have Increased Support
May 1 – July 31, 2024
Ronald L. & Cheryl L. Bednar (10)
Rick & Sue Berron (10)
Rich & Tina Borgmeyer and Family (10)
Dale & Lynette Brewer
William W. Bright
Michele Buchanan
Callahan Custom Homes
Dr. & Mrs. David Caplin
CLEAN-The Uniform Company (15)
Pamela Coffin
Cole & Associates, Inc. (10)
William H. Crabbin (15)
Charles B. Derbak
Bob & Judy Evans
Jesse & Jil Graftenreed (10)
Brian & Heather Hall (15)
Thomas & Karen House
Mr. David Jockenhoefer
Nicholas & Erin Koenemann
Mary Caola Kullman
Kent & Kathy Lannert (20)
Eugene & Linda Lehr (20)
Paul & LaVerne Lorenzini (20)
The Mallon Family (10)
NetCom, Inc.
Bill & Jane Pohlman (15)
Sharon & David Raich
Kristin & Andy Ruzicka
Bob & Johanna Schillinger (20)
James & Judith Schloeman
Alice & Terry Shofner (10)
Michael J. Swartz
Tarlton Corporation
The Vogel Family
Linda & Peter Werner (25)
Dr. Andrew M. White (10)
Jim & Darcie Witherspoon (20)
(10) denotes member for at least 10 years
(15) denotes member for at least 15 years (20) denotes member for at least 20 years (25) denotes member for at least 25 years
Please contact the Development Office at (314) 646-4859 if you:
• Would like information on how you can join or increase your support to the Marlin Perkins Society.
• Discover a discrepancy or have a question (the Zoo makes every effort to acknowledge all gifts and to maintain accurate records).
Black-breasted leaf turtle
Honor Roll
The following list represents new major and planned gifts and pledges, excluding Marlin Perkins Society and other membership gifts, made to the Saint Louis Zoo Association from May 1 – July 31, 2024. Donors are listed in the category of their most recent giving to the Saint Louis Zoo.
Leadership Gifts
$5,000,000 and Above
Boniface Foundation
$2,499,999 – $1,000,000
Anonymous
The Saigh Foundation
Major Gifts
$499,999 – $250,000
Susan & Terry Block
Estate of Terry L. Cox
Estate of Randall Damerow, and the Estate of Donald Damerow
Michael D. and Barbara A. Hurst Fund
$249,999 – $100,000
Cathy & James Gidcumb
Special Gifts
$99,999 – $50,000
Anonymous
Estate of Barbara Bottini
Estate of Natalie Forbes
Jordan Charitable Foundation
Hannah & Larry Langsam
Estate of Ann M. Parke
Carol J. Schreiner
$49,999 – $25,000 Anonymous (2)
Alan & Dottye Akerson
Nancy H. Child
Estate of Sandra M. Greenberg
Irene & Bob Gulovsen
Stephany & Richard Kniep
Estate of Lorraine Slager
Heather Wood
$24,999 – $10,000
Anonymous
Mr. & Mrs. Charles Berry
Emma Clyde Hodge Memorial Fund
Ms. Marie D. Jacobs
Annette & Pat Kelly
Mont & Barbara Little
Jim & Jennifer McGrath
Renee & Bruce Michelson
Deborah & Edward Schwarz
John & Vicky Sondag
Berkley Shands, in memory of:
Beverly Sparks-Shands
Oscar Sparks
Dorothy Sparks
George Wicks
Maria & Philip Taxman
Estate of Nadine L. Verderber
Richard & Josephine Weil
$9,999 – $5,000
Anonymous (2)
Susan M. Barrett
Marion & Van-Lear Black
E. Reuben and Gladys F. Grant
Charitable Trust
Drs. Dan & Susan Luedke
Beverly Ruser, in memory of:
Larry Ruser, Sr.
Ellen Walz Svenson
Trulaske Family Foundation
$4,999 – $1,000
Anthony J. & Claire Bardol
Patricia Bean
Blueprint4SummerSTL
Estate of Marlene Boje
Cenia & Dwight Bosman
Rose Mary Dieckhaus
Robert K. & Judy A. Evans
Constance Lohr
Frederick Pitzman Fund
Lisa Rozum
James & Jean Terry
Francis & Carol Trotter
Ms. Ellen Uhlemeyer
James R. & Mary C. Walters
$999 – $250
The Bellwether Foundation
Clara E. Brown
Jane Cook
Bob B. Fleshner
Florence Flieg
Mr. David R. Ganz
Kenneth Patti Hise
Estate of Mark & Stacey Kimler
Mark Lincoln
The McAllister Family Foundation
Estate of Carolyn R. Osborn
Pravina Pindoria Amit Kothari
Linda Saligman
Thomas Lisa Spinner
Roger Peggy Steinbecker
Strathalbyn Farms Club
Curtis Mindy Voelkel
Mrs. Barbara Wielansky
Charles Patty Wiswall
The Saint Louis Zoo Development Office regrets any errors or omission of any gift.
If you would like to change your honor roll listing, contact Katie Meyers at meyers@stlzoo.org.
Tribute Fund
Donors providing the Saint Louis Zoo Tribute Fund with gifts of $25 or more between May 1 – July 31, 2024, to honor or memorialize events and loved ones include:
In Memory Of
Ralph E. Anderson
Karen Petkovich
Vernon A. Anderson
Fords Unlimited Car Club
Kimberly Johnson
Denise & Haven Jorgensen
Bobbi S. Martinez
Mary A. Andrews
Victoria Kappelmann
Mike Beasley
Christine Gordon
Robert A. Berger
Ms. Kathy Whaley
Delores S. Berman
Nancy Bolozky
Ms. Stacy L. Fendelman
Ronnie Frank
Carolyn E. Kelly
Dolores Kling
William Rubin
Leslie Bolin
Mrs. Van-Lear Black III
Susan A. Boren
Bobbie Meinershagen
Ronald A. Brown
Clara E. Brown
Sandy Brown
Lisa Rozum
Keith A. Campbell
Gifts received in memory of Friends of the Animal Shelter (FOTAS) Board of Directors
Stuart Vogelsmeier
Bertram B. Culver
Mr. David A. Blanton III
Ms. Jean C. Hamilton
John W. & Virginia R. Rowe
Jane & Ted Simmons
Strathalbyn Farms Club
Edward Donze
Darline Donze
Idell Donze
Darline Donze
Jack Grisham
Ms. Celeste Lombardi
Stephen Meeks
Mary Jo Stearns
Ken Guldalian
Joseph & Trish Alexandre
Sarah & Jeffrey Hightower
David & Arnita Plekenpol
Frances F. Stumpf
Goggy Harre
Liz Wood
Ann Hinkebein
Cortney & Nathan Casey
Nancy Ernst
Mr. Kenneth F. Hinkebein
Mr. Glenn Mundwiller
Joyce Roth
Becky Younnker
Warner A. Isaacs
Mr. Orley Morgan
George F. Koob
Mr. & Mrs. McPherson D. Moore
Davin S. Wenner
Mariann Lawler
Laura Eirmann
Marguerite G. Likes
Marcia Codling
Kathy & Aaron Hinni
The Klein Family
Ms. Cynthia L. Mosher
Amy Spica
Patrick T. Maddock
Shirley Breeze
William & Kathleen Kammermeyer
Tom & Sharon Kircher
Christa Manwaring
Thomas Miller
Yvonne Clever
Margaret O. Narconis
Bryce & Jeanne Maples
Earnest L. Nicholson
Marianne Barrow
Mr. & Mrs. Jerome H. DiMarcellis
Jane Habbegger
Ms. Eleanor Hecht
Robert H. Ripley
Michael & Monica Buel
Conrad Schmitt
Kathy Thouvenot
Charles Schmitz
Michelle R. Budde
Lori A. Sullivan & G. Todd Rogan
Laura A. Schuppe
Betsy Rose
Manfred L. Thurmann
David A. Wilson
Ardeen Tucker
Arthur Schoenberger & Jena Strauss-Schoenberger
Patricia Vaughan
Bob B. Fleshner
Mary Vincitore & David Vincitore
Valerie O. Wall
Mark & Marie Carlie
Steven & Barbara Clark
Shahzad Khan
Mark Lincoln
Elizabeth S. Miscioscia
Ms. Susan & Craig Silver
Wade R. Watts
Hope Meyer
Chuck Wilber
Mary & William Barrett
In Honor Of
Ms. Cynthia J. Brinkley
Mr. & Mrs. W. Dudley McCarter
Steve & Christy Conway
Denise & Craig Evans
John Flotken
Mike A. Flotken & Wendy Flotken
James W. Gidcumb
Wendy B. Borowsky & Leslie E. Borowsky
Mariah Glowicz
Rachelle Lawrence
Brenda Haalboom
Colleen & Daniel Carver
Patricia & Ronald Hofmeister
Matthew Hofmeister
Drs. Dan W. & Susan L. Luedke
Nora O’Donnell
Merah Jane Habbegger
Vivian Darlene Nichols
Sara & Nick Correnti
William A. & Sandra R. Schweickhart
Lynn & Luci Bradley
Carl Specker
Robyn Merschen
John A. Virant & Mary Ann Virant
Constance Lohr
Dr. & Mrs. Henry G. Ollinger
Brown recluse spider
What do you call a dog that can’t bark?
A hushpuppy.
HAHA! haha! HAHA!
What is smarter than a talking bird?
A spelling bee.
How do you tell the difference between an alligator and a crocodile?
One you see later and the other you see after a while.
Back by popular demand, we have some of the funniest animal jokes here – and we’re not “lion”!
Which reptile is the best at solving crimes?
An “investi-gator”
THE BEST HALLOWEEN HAHA!
Why don’t cheetahs play hide and seek?
They’re always spotted.
Why do sharks swim in salt water?
Because pepper makes them sneeze.
BEST ANIMAL
JOKES
As is a St. Louis tradition to share jokes during trick-or-treating, remember these jokes or bring this magazine along for your candy-seeking journey!
When do ducks wake up in the morning?
At the quack of dawn.
What game do mice like to play?
Hide and squeak.
Why is the barn so noisy?
Because addaxes, kudu and gazelles have horns.
Where do milkshakes come from?
Nervous cows.
What is a banteng’s golden rule?
Treat udders how you want to be treated.
WildCare Institute 20th
Anniversary Celebration
Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2024
6 - 9 p.m.
Saint Louis Zoo, The Living World
General Admission: $140
Join us in celebrating two decades of conservation work and the accomplishments achieved by the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute team.
• Enjoy dinner and drinks.
• Hear from Zoo experts and other eld conservationists.
• Learn what’s next for the WildCare Institute.
One Government Drive
St. Louis, MO 63110
POSTMASTER: send address changes to stlzoo, Saint Louis Zoo, One Government Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110
CHECK IF APPROPRIATE:
MY NAME IS MISSPELLED.
MY ADDRESS IS INCORRECT.
I RECEIVED MORE THAN ONE COPY.
I NO LONGER WISH TO RECEIVE stlzoo.
Please clip this address panel and mail it to us, noting your request.
Address Service Requested
stlzoo, Saint Louis Zoo, 2024
Photo by Ray Meibaum
The Cat of Many Names: Other than humans, pumas have the largest range of any terrestrial mammal in the western hemisphere. It’s thought that they are called by many names — like mountain lions, panthers, catamounts and cougars — because they have been found in and named by different countries.
