Summer 2023 stlzoo magazine

Introducing Henry A. Jubel Foundation

Destination Discovery | How the Zoo Stays Cool | Soaring into the Zoo: Winging It

SAINT LOUIS ZOO ASSOCIATION

Summer 2023

Volume 39, N0. 3

By Michael Macek, Director, Saint Louis Zoo

Bring on the vacations, “staycations” and visiting loved ones — the Saint Louis Zoo is the perfect place to enjoy a summertime getaway. Even better, we have extended summer hours lasting through Aug. 20, so there’s more time to see and do all things cool.

Speaking of cool, the two main articles in this issue epitomize the word, both literally and figuratively. This past spring, you may have heard the “cool” news about Henry A. Jubel Foundation Destination Discovery, which will be our new experience for children and families on the site of the current Emerson Dinoroarus, formerly Emerson Children’s Zoo. This 2.8-acre area will be revolutionary … close-up encounters with animals, opportunities for hands-on learning, a water-play area, state-of-the-art amenities … it’ll be a new, dynamic way for people to experience and enjoy the Zoo. Destination Discovery is slated to open in 2026; in the meantime, make sure you visit Dinoroarus during its last year here! Learn more about Destination Discovery on page 6

As carefree and fun as summer can be, those 100-degree days are tough. On days of sweltering heat, I’m reminded of our team members’ dedication for both animals and people. There are many ways we keep animals and people cool and comfortable during the summer. Some animals have natural adaptations — for instance, shedding winter coats — and for others, we provide different types of care. We also have resources for guests, including free water-filling stations. On page 12, find out how the Zoo stays cool.

Animal conservation is a top priority, and it’s important for us to share how to help animals in St. Louis and around the world. This issue has two articles that are great examples of our local and global conservation and educational work involving birds. Let’s start with local. Have you seen our new bird show, Winging It? During this experience, you’ll see a variety of exotic and native birds, which will demonstrate their natural abilities. Throughout the show, trainers clear up fact vs. fiction and highlight ways you can help birds through everyday actions. Over 7,000 miles away, our Zoo team shared a similar conservation message to students in the Northern Mariana Islands. Earlier this year, a Zoo team traveled to Rota to conduct educational programming and fieldwork for local, endangered birds. Although these were different birds and different audiences, the soul of the message was the same: the importance of caring for living things in our own ecosystems. Read these articles on pages 18 and 20, respectively.

We have several new events this summer, including HullabaZoo presented by Mid America Chevy Dealers. It’s free family fun on select Friday afternoons this summer, through Aug. 4. Each HullabaZoo Friday is themed and features different entertainment, food and drink specials, and conservation messages. And, just for adults, Jammin’ at the Zoo is back! Sip and savor adult beverages and buzz to the beat of entertainment. Find out more about these events on pages 22 and 23

As always, thank you for supporting the Zoo, and we look forward to seeing you for a visit soon.

COMMISSION OF THE ST. LOUIS ZOOLOGICAL PARK SUBDISTRICT

Chair

Cynthia J. Brinkley

Vice-Chair

Lawrence E. Thomas

Co-Treasurers

Chonda J. Nwamu

Lawrence E. Thomas

Immediate Past Chair

Winthrop B. Reed III

Commissioners

Karl A. Grice

Robert R. Hermann, Jr.

Jerald L. Kent

Robert F. O’Loughlin

Neal F. Perryman

Michael W. Riney

Peggy A. Ritter

Steven C. Roberts

Will R. Ross, MD, MPH

Carol A. Wilson

Open Position

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

Dana Tucker Redwing

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

Kathleen W. Bilderback

Susan S. Block

Cenia D. Bosman

Christine Boushka

Debbie A. Caplin

Hazel Alethea R.

Donald

Edward Durham

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

Molly Hyland

Ryan L. Hyman

Robert F. Johnston

Carol S. Klein

Lee C. Kling

Judith B. Kouchoukos

Julie Lilly

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

James G. Sansone

Jason D. Sapp

Steven F. Schankman

James R. Schnurbusch

Shelley Seifert

Torbjorn B. Sjogren

Zachary A. Smith

John R. Sondag

Dianne Sutcliffe

Kevin Travers

James Tyrrell

Virgil Van Trease

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 ADVISORY BOARD

PROFESSIONALS

President

Whittney Dunn

Secretary Rei Kato

Vice Presidents

Emily Carter

Samantha Hurrell

Christian Wargo

Luke Yamnitz

Open Position

Treasurer

Brittany Mayfield

Liaisons

Jennifer Jeffries

Tre Moore

Mike Poletti

Megan Schwedtmann

Zach Ungerott

Eric Werner

Board Members

Erica Agnew

Joel Carter

Jamal Cornelious

Betsy Crites

Justin Diecker

Katie Doherty

Allison Heininger

Bryar Keyes

Kelly King

Praveena Kolli

James Merenda

Timothy Nielsen

Lauren Parko

Dacoda Scarlett

Kate Schwarze

Kristin Shannahan

Kelly Stein

Alex Stepanek

Jake Thessen

Michael Tulley

Craig VanLeeuwen

zoo

In This Issue

6

Introducing Henry A. Jubel Foundation

Destination Discovery

This new exhibit for children and families will have animal adventures at every turn!

12

How the Zoo Stays Cool

Learn how Zoo animals stay cool in the summer through natural adaptations and help from their care teams.

18

Soaring into the Zoo: Winging It

Get the scoop on our new bird show and new feathered friends.

2 Membership Updates

22 Happenings

24 Education Catalog

33 Saint Louis Zoo Honor Roll

34 Saint Louis Zoo Tribute Fund

36 Kids Page

stlzoo is published quarterly as a member benefit by the Saint Louis Zoo Association, One Government Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110 Permission to reprint any material is granted, provided proper credit is given.

n Managing Editor: Rebecca McMiller

n Editorial Assistance: Billy Brennan, Jill Gordon, Kirby Meyer, Elaine Vydra

n Graphic Design: McCord Design Group

n Contributing Photographer: Ray Meibaum

n Contributors: Members of the Zoo staff

On the Cover Babydoll sheep

Photo by Ray Meibaum

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 Updates

Hi, Zoo members! In this section, we’ll quickly highlight top Zoo happenings, 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.

Attraction Dates

Emerson Dinoroarus

Open through Nov. 5

Included in member tickets

It’s our last year for this exhibit; hurry and see before it goes extinct!

Sea Lion Show

Daily through Aug. 20, Sept. 2-4; Weekends only, Aug. 26 – Oct. 1, Oct. 7-29

Included in member tickets

Stingrays at Caribbean Cove presented by SSM Health

Open through Nov. 5

Included in premium member tickets

Winging It

Daily through Aug. 20, Sept. 2-4; Weekends only, Aug. 26 – Oct. 1

Included in member tickets

Learn more about this new bird show on pages 18 and 19.

Get pumped for Jammin’ at the Zoo

Your favorite beer and wine tasting event is back for 2023! Sip and savor adult beverages at stations throughout the Zoo while buzzing to the beat of live entertainment. Food is available for purchase. Jammin’ at the Zoo is two nights: Fridays, July 21 and Aug. 18. And, Zoo members receive discounted admission! Learn more at stlzoo.org/jammin.

Traveling this summer? You may receive discounts at another zoo!

The Saint Louis Zoo partners with other Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) organizations to provide a list of over 100 reciprocal partners. As a Zoo member, you receive free or discounted admission to other AZA organizations that participate in the AZA Reciprocal Admissions Program. Please visit our website for the AZA reciprocal partner listing.

Member Discount on Fall Programs

Registration for our fall education programs is available, and remember, members receive a discount! See our catalog starting on page 24, or check stlzoo.org/education for all our programs.

Did You

The Saint Louis Zoo offers several behind-the-scenes tours, during which you can encounter animals like never before. Or, maybe you’re interested in a tour of our Endangered Species Research Center and Veterinary Hospital or the Emerson Zooline Railroad?

Whatever your animal or Zoo interest, there’s a tour you’re sure to enjoy!

The Zoo's most popular tours

A guest favorite is our Penguin Encounter. Guests can meet a few of our king, gentoo and rockhopper penguins as they waddle around our behind-the-scenes space. Fun fact — the penguins who participate in this tour choose to join us. This means that each tour is unique, and you’ll never get the same group of penguins twice.

Other unique animal tours include the invertebrate-focused Planet Protectors tour (you may even get to hold one of our six-legged friends!) and our newest offering: the Here, There and Grizzly Bear tour. This experience takes you behind the scenes of Centene Grizzly Ridge, where you will meet Huckleberry and Finley — our sibling pair of bears — and learn how keepers care for these magnificent animals.

The Zoo’s new electric train, #50, Mary Meachum

King penguin

Know...

Tours are perfect gifts

Looking for a unique birthday or anniversary gift? Tours are a great option and offer one of the most exclusive animal experiences in St. Louis.

Tours for all ages, price points and abilities

The Zoo offers tour options for a wide range of ages and budgets. Though many of the animal tours have an age requirement of 5 or 8 years old, children as young as 2 years old can join us for our Train-rific Tour, our new tour of the Zooline Railroad. The Avian Encounter, Gentle Giants (Giraffe), Penguin Encounter, Sea Lion Encounter and Veterinary Hospital tours are all fully accessible. Zoo tours range from $35 to $100 per person.

During the Planet Protectors tour, you may even get to hold an invertebrate

A Zoo guest feeds a reticulated giraffe during the Gentle Giants tour

DESTINA INT R ODUCING HEN R Y

AN ARTISTIC RENDERING OF FOREST FAMILIES ZONE WITHIN DESTINATION DISCOVERY. THE ANIMALS FEATURED ARE COATI.

AJUBEL FOUND A TION

ATION DISCOVERY

ANIMAL ADVENTURES AT EVERY TURN

BY R EBECC A MCMILLE R , M AR KETING COMMUNIC A TIONS M A N A GE R

With the announcement of the Henry A. Jubel Foundation Destination Discovery, our new children and families area slated to debut as early as 2026, many are eagerly awaiting opening day.

When the former Emerson Children’s Zoo closed in 2020, it was a tough goodbye for many families, but with the opening of Destination Discovery will come a new era of immersive and engaging experiences for people of all ages and abilities. Planning a new experience like this takes years of work, and we’re excited to give you a peek into how Destination Discovery is taking shape.

BUT FI R ST, TO GIVE YOU A R EF R ESH: W H A T A NIM A LS A ND

A CTIVITIES WILL THE R E BE A T DESTIN A TION DISCOVE R Y?

At this new 2.8-acre experience, which will be on the site of the current Emerson Dinoroarus and former Children’s Zoo, our goal is to emphasize that by caring for animals, our shared world becomes a healthier place for all living things. Connecting with animals and

nature is especially important to help children develop empathy and establish emotional connections to others. The exhibit will feature four different zones, allowing you to experience animal adventures at every turn:

The entrance to Destination Discovery starts with a walk into a building where guests are immersed in state-of-the-art interactive projection, projection mapping and augmented reality technology. This immersive experience in the Animals and Us building will change with the seasons, so guests can see how our native wildlife and wild spaces change as they visit throughout the year. This immersive experience will set the stage for your Destination Discovery adventure.

WHAT ANIMALS WILL I SEE?

BLACK-TAILED PRAIRIE DOGS, PATAGONIAN MARA AND ALPACA

This area features grassland animals, some of which use communal burrows (like black-tailed prairie dogs) and work together to support each other. Guests will learn that we all have roles to play in helping keep our ecosystem healthy.

WHAT ANIMALS WILL I SEE?

NORTH AMERICAN RIVER OTTERS AND CHILEAN FLAMINGOS

Freshwater Wilderness features aquatic animals that share rivers and ponds with us. Guests may take part in water-play activities while learning the importance of clean water for all.

FO R EST F A MILIES

WHAT ANIMALS WILL I SEE?

TASMANIAN DEVILS, COATI, JAVA FINCHES AND BABYDOLL SHEEP

This area features animals that fly, are arboreal (meaning they live in trees) or rely on healthy forests. Guests can take part in climbing activities and learn about wild animals living in communities with people.

While you may have seen some of these animals at the Zoo before, you’ll see them in an entirely new setting. As you can see in our habitat illustrations throughout this article, you’ll be able to get eye-to-eye with prairie dogs from your own “bubble” that protrudes from the ground of the habitat. And otters will zoom overhead in special “water flumes” that take them to different areas of their new habitat.

There also will be a new two-story addition to The Living World building, which will offer state-of-the-art

learning and play spaces, including new nature-based preschool classrooms and additional education program facilities. The current Zoo Preschool space will host school groups, Zoo camp and other programs.

“Connecting with animals and nature is an important part of a healthy, active childhood,” said Dwight Scott, Dana Brown President & CEO. “The future of wildlife and wild places depends on the next generation caring for and conserving them.”

F R ESH WA TER W ILDE R NESS

HO W DID THE ZOO GET HE R E?

From conducting research to design and construction, planning a new experience like this takes years of work.

Part of the initial planning was reviewing what Zoo guests appreciated the most about the former Children’s Zoo.

“We conducted a study at the former Children’s Zoo in 2015 and found that it was important to guests to touch or be close to animals, like the goats or guinea pigs,” said Amy Niedbalski, Director of the Zoo’s Conservation and Audience Research and Evaluation team. “Our data also showed that the key predictor of guest outcomes — like ‘I felt a greater sense of connection with animals and nature as a result of visiting the Children’s Zoo’ — was listening to an employee or volunteer talk about a specific animal. This shows the importance of our team members talking to guests; it inspires people to have empathy for animals and to possibly take an interest in conservation action.”

Zoo leaders also carefully planned what animals could live in Destination Discovery.

“At Destination Discovery — and in all areas of the Zoo — we have a ‘decision tree’ that guides how we plan for any new animals … do we have proper facilities to care for a new species? Do our team members have the required expertise to care for a new species?” said Saint Louis Zoo Director Michael Macek. “At Destination Discovery, we also were guided by animals that supported the themes we wanted to convey — such as the importance of clean water — and animals that would be active during the day and whose behaviors would be engaging for children, like an otter’s swimming and splashing.”

Aside from our Zoo team’s work, an essential aspect of planning was community input. After all, Destination Discovery is an experience for the community!

In 2021, members of our Zoo team conducted several family engagement sessions to learn what was most important to those families in this new space.

The 20 families who took part in these sessions lived across the St. Louis metro area and had children ages 2 to 10 years old. We also made sure to include bilingual families and families with members of varying abilities, neurodivergence, race/ethnicity and socioeconomic status.

Family members completed 15 activity stations, and after the sessions, our team found these preferences among the families:

“FAMILIAR” ANIMALS TO SEE (ANIMALS THAT KIDS MAY HAVE SEEN IN MOVIES OR TV)

PHYSICAL PLAY OPPORTUNITIES

OPPORTUNITIES TO ROLE-PLAY AND CREATE

LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES ABOUT CONSERVING NATIVE WILDLIFE

THEMES SURROUNDING SHARING, CARING, COMMUNITY AND FAMILY PROXIMITY TO ANIMALS AND ZOO TEAM MEMBERS

ABUNDANT AMENITIES (SHADE, BENCHES, FAMILY RESTROOMS, ETC.)

ACCESSIBILITY

MINIMAL TECHNOLOGY, ALLOWING FAMILIES TO HAVE A “NATURE RETREAT”

Family sessions were completed by June 2022, and we’re thankful for the input and feedback we received from this group of St. Louisans!

In addition to community feedback, Destination Discovery couldn’t come to life without the generosity of donors, beginning with a generous $15 million lead gift from the Henry A. Jubel Foundation. The Jubel family have been longtime supporters of the Zoo through major gifts, Marlin Perkins Society and serve as leaders of the Saint Louis Zoo Association.

“Our family has a longstanding and deep connection with the Saint Louis Zoo,” said Melissa Jubel Markwort, Executive Director, Henry A. Jubel Foundation.

“When the Children’s Zoo closed in 2020, as a family we knew we wanted to be a part of bringing this space back to life and in an even better way.”

W H A T AR E THE ZOO’S NEXT STEPS?

Now that we know what we want, it’s time to create it. Right now, Zoo leaders are planning for construction to begin in 2024. We’re predicting animals to arrive in 2025 and for Destination Discovery to open in 2026. Once open, Destination Discovery will be included in your membership benefits!

During this construction period, the area currently housing Emerson Dinoroarus will be closed (the exhibit’s last day is Nov. 5), so be sure to see this dino experience before it goes extinct!

Although 2026 seems like a long way away, our Zoo hopes Destination Discovery will be well worth the wait, energizing all guests to develop emotional connections to animals and nature, take conservation action out in the world, and make our shared world a healthier place. We hope it inspires a whole new generation of animal lovers and conservationists! n

ABOVE: AN ARTISTIC RENDERING OF THE NORTH AMERICAN RIVER OTTER HABITAT, IN THE FRESHWATER WILDERNESS ZONE

A chimpanzee enjoys some ice enrichment

By Kim Hoormann, Manager of Learning Experiences

As any St. Louisan knows, our summer heat (and humidity) can be intense! We are often asked how the animals that call the Zoo home deal with the extreme temperatures. Many animals have natural adaptations that help them, plus our entire Zoo team is dedicated to providing excellent care to keep them healthy and comfortable. A lot of what the animals and keepers do are very similar to how we survive the summer!

Photos by Ray Meibaum, Danny Recklein, JoEllen Toler and Robin Winkelman

A Nile hippopotamus stays cool in its pool

CHANGING CLOTHES

Just like we change our clothes to adapt to the seasons, animals do something similar. They aren’t shuffling their tubs of winter coats, hats and gloves to storage and pulling out the shorts and T-shirts! Rather, they are losing their thick winter “coats.” If you have ever taken a good look at our camels in spring or summer, they look a little shaggy because they are losing their thick fur, which kept them warm over the winter. While it might look like they’re having a really bad hair day, it’s a natural process and doesn’t hurt at all. Many mammals naturally lose fur as the weather warms.

PROTECTION

If you are coming to visit the Zoo, or going anywhere sunny, you need to have your sunscreen on so you don’t get a sunburn. Animals also use sunscreen, but not in the same way we do. Hippos secrete a pink slime called “blood sweat” (even though it’s neither blood nor sweat) that scientists believe acts like sunscreen to protect their skin. Rhinos roll in mud to protect their skin from sunburn, so our keepers always make sure they have muddy wallows to enjoy — plus it’s fun for the animals! Other animals like zebras or Somali wild asses might roll in dirt to add a layer of physical protection to their bodies, much like some people may wear long-sleeve sun shirts. Plus, those layers help protect from bug bites! Shade structures in animal habitats also provide protection from the sun.

A Bactrian camel will lose its thick coat in preparation for warmer weather

A Grevy’s zebra rolls in the dirt, which adds a layer of sun protection to their bodies (and helps protect from bug bites!)

DIET CHANGES

While many people enjoy a bowl of warm soup or chili on a cold winter’s day, it isn’t quite as enjoyable on a hot summer evening. Similar to how we change our eating habits and diets as the weather changes, animals do, too! For example, our grizzly bears receive fish, chow, meat and produce (fruits and vegetables) year-round. But, based upon the bears’ appetites and behaviors, the carnivore team may cut back or potentially increase the amount of food they offer to the bears. We see that the bears’ appetites change seasonally.

Our grizzly bears and polar bear stay comfortable in their pools year-round

COOL FUN

What are some of your favorite things to do in the summer? Play in a pool, perhaps? Enjoy a frozen treat or slice of frozen watermelon?

Zoo animals enjoy these same things! As you explore the Zoo, you will see that many animals have pools in their habitats. For example, our American alligator will often fully submerge himself; look carefully for his eyes and nostrils in the water! Water in animal habitats can be chilled, as needed, for the species-specific needs. For example, Humboldt penguins naturally live along the coast of Chile and Peru where the temperature on land can be very warm, routinely exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit. But the Humboldt Current in that region brings cold ocean water to those coasts, providing the animals that live there a way to beat the heat. We do the same thing at the Zoo with the outdoor Humboldt penguins. Even on hot outdoor days, their water is a chilly and refreshing 45 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Animals that don’t swim may have water misters in their habitats, if appropriate for the animals’ needs, to help them stay cool and refreshed.

Care teams also provide frozen treats to the animals. Many animals receive sugar-free ice pops, sometimes stuffed with yummy food that is part of their diet. The sea lion ice pops might have squid or fish in them, while the apes could find apples in their frozen treats! For carnivores (natural meat eaters), they might receive what is affectionately called a “blood-sicle.” It might sound gross to us, but it’s one way we keep our carnivores healthy.

Our Humboldt penguins’ pool is temperaturecontrolled at 45 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit

American alligators will often fully submerge themselves under water

Enrichment activites and food are provided to help animals stay cool; for example, an Amur tiger enjoys playing with a ball in a pool

WE CARE ABOUT PEOPLE, TOO

CHOICE AND CONTROL

An important part of animal care and wellbeing is offering the animals choice and control in their environment. Ectothermic (cold-blooded) animals — like reptiles whose body temperature is dependent upon their environment — will seek out pools of water, find shade, or dig burrows underground in order to bring their body temperatures down. Endothermic (warm-blooded) animals — like mammals and birds whose internal body temperature is constant — also seek out places and opportunities for comfort. The Zoo teams make sure to provide these opportunities to all animals.

In addition to public-facing habitats, many animals also have habitats that are behind the scenes. Similar to how they may choose to stand in the shade, sit in front of a water mister or soak in a pool, animals may choose to go inside on hot summer days. Animals have this option year-round, so if you are visiting the Zoo and don’t see animals in their habitats, it might be because they have chosen to be inside at that time.

Not only is the Zoo committed to caring for animals, but we want people to stay healthy in the heat, too. Things like wearing sunscreen, hats and sunglasses help provide sun protection. Staying hydrated is key for our Zoo employees and guests! Reusable water bottles can be filled up at water fountains or bottle filling stations and should be used frequently. Zoo employees who work outside may adjust their routines and responsibilities so they can avoid being outside (as much as possible) during the hottest part of the day. While we hope that everyone is making smart choices to be safe in the heat, in the event of a heat-related health emergency, the Zoo has team members trained in first aid and can call the on-grounds medics if needed.

We hope to see you at the Zoo this summer! Be sure to visit some of these animals and see if they’re demonstrating any of their natural behaviors to stay cool! n

Soaring into the Zoo: Winging It

By Christy Childs, Public Relations Manager

New this year at the Saint Louis Zoo is the bird show “Winging It,” presented in partnership with World Bird Sanctuary. Birds great and small can be seen at the Lichtenstein Sea Lion Arena, at alternating times with Sea Lion Show.

In this free-flying presentation, a variety of exotic and native birds demonstrate their natural abilities, and some even take flight over the audience. With the help of these fine feathered ambassadors, trainers clear up fact from fiction about birds and their behaviors. The show keeps guests on their talons with audience participation and pop quizzes, fun and fascinating conservation facts, and tips on how people can help protect wildlife and animal habitats.

Meet the Birds

Nine birds from World Bird Sanctuary moved to the Zoo in early April with their trainers and will stay for the duration of the show season, which runs through October.

Black-crowned night heron Gilligan shows off his expert fishing skills. African grey parrot Nemo uses his mimicking vocalizations to help tell a fairytale. White-bellied stork Azizi struts his lanky legs around the stage.

American barn owl Minerva gracefully flies overhead to show how silent flight is essential for the “ghost owl” in catching its prey. Harris’s hawk Buffalo zooms powerfully across the arena, then on land demonstrates how he can crawl through narrow spaces to seek out food sources. Red-tailed hawk Livia soars above the audience to land on the stage’s highest perch. American bald eagle Buford regally flies through the arena to the delight of onlookers admiring our national symbol.

How Do They Do That?

These smart birds are pros at showing off their avian abilities, such as flying from perch to perch, or picking up items with their beaks. The Bird Care Team trains the birds using positive reinforcement — food is their motivation! The birds look for the cue from the trainer, such as a finger tap on a glove or a specific spoken word,

An American barn owl flies to its trainer, Jen Sleeman

An African grey parrot helps tell a story using its mimicking vocalizations

Black-crowned night heron

Photos by Ray Meibaum

Zoo ALIVE Teens Take Conservation Action Virtual

Bird Conservation

The birds in Winging It are great ambassadors for their winged, wild friends around the world. Throughout the show, there are short stories of how zoos are helping to save animals from extinction. One example is vultures, which are endangered throughout much of the world. Out of 23 species of vultures worldwide, 16 are anywhere from threatened to critically endangered and continuing to decline. Many of these species are found in Africa, where vultures face threats such as poisoning, electrocution and habitat loss.

Billions of birds fly through the United States every year for spring and fall migration. Humans can help them by turning off any unnecessary lighting, putting outside lights on timers or motion sensors, and turning off upper story lights whenever possible during migration periods. The Zoo is an official program partner of Lights

Out Heartland, an initiative that aims to reduce light pollution to help birds migrate safely through large cities. Window collisions are another threat to birds. Because glass is nearly invisible to birds, placing markings or stripes close together on problem windows will help stop birds from hitting the glass and hurting themselves.

Test your bird knowledge

1 2 3

Fact or fiction?

Tawny eagles eat vulture vomit.

Which of these three birds is called the “hawk of the highway”?

• Cooper’s hawk

• Red-tailed hawk

• Swainson’s hawk

Fact or fiction?

All herons hunt for their food during the day!

Learn more fun bird trivia at Winging It!

Winging It Show Details

Shows are daily in summer and on select dates in fall through Oct. 1, 2023. The full schedule is available at stlzoo.org/wingingit. Each show is approximately 20 minutes long. This show is included in your membership benefits, so be sure to see our feathered friends in flight this year! n

A black-crowned night heron demonstrates its fishing skills

A Harris’s hawk demonstrates how it can go through narrow spaces to find food

A bald eagle begins its flight over the audience

Trainers take guests through an engaging experience during the show

Zoo Team Travels to Rota

By Keri Lammering,

In the middle of the Pacific Ocean is the United States Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). After 36 hours of travel, our Saint Louis Zoo team arrived in Rota in February 2023 to conduct fieldwork on behalf of the Center for Avian Conservation in the Pacific Islands, part of the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute.

The focus of our fieldwork was to study the critically endangered Rota white-eye. This bird, known to the local community as the Nosa Luta, only exists in one high elevation forest on Rota (Luta). We also were there for educational programming. Here’s an in-depth look at our work in Rota.

Educational Programming

This is a vital component of conservation success. Our educational programming encourages people to develop meaningful connections to animals. We especially value community members who coexist with wildlife; their support is critical in implementing solutions that help animals.

Since 2018, Zoo educators have reached over 1,000 students within the CNMI Public School System. Our Zoo team collaborates with local schools through: teacher workshops, library programs, school field trips to field sites and the bird care room, and on-site field internships.

While in Rota, our educators taught students from Dr. Rita Hocog Inos Jr./Sr. High School about how Pacific Bird Conservation (PBC) — our longtime partner through the WildCare Institute — aids local CNMI Division of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) conservation work. Students participated in bird watching with our team and visited the bird care room in the CNMI DFW office.

Students also were able to connect with staff from DFW and see the setup for taking care of the Rota white-eye. Several students were inspired to join a micro-internship to experience firsthand what it takes to do conservation work! Working alongside the PBC field team, the students assisted with mist netting

and collecting biological samples in the field and prepared diets for the birds.

“Being a part of this team was an honor, and I was thrilled to represent the Zoo on this level,” said Tiffany Evans, Zoo Educator. “I’ve learned so much about the islands’ history and culture, how to say the bird names in the Chamorro language, and incorporate my first-hand experiences of this conservation work into Zoo programs in St. Louis.”

Interviews and Evaluation

The Zoo’s Conservation and Audience Research and Evaluation (CARE) team conducts a variety of research on what people think, feel and do. On this trip was Erin Tate, CARE Associate, who evaluated PBC’s fieldwork success and our Zoo’s educational programming.

Among the criteria Tate measured was students’ knowledge, attitudes, and interest in a conservation career before and after a field trip to field sites. Teachers received a follow-up survey asking if their goals for their class were met through the program.

Conservation Education Liaison

The Zoo team on an airplane ride to Rota

Zoo Educator Tiffany Evans teaches a class

A strong focus on conservation careers was important to the teachers, and measuring conservation career interest and teacher’s satisfaction was particularly important to PBC. Tate also conducted a library activity with younger students to gauge their familiarity with native forest birds in their area.

“Spending time in the field really brings the connection between people and wildlife into focus for me,” Tate said. “We’re seeing that’s the case with the high school students who join us on field trips — they’re significantly more likely to be interested in conservation careers and opportunities to protect native animals.”

Animal Research at the Field Site

Early mornings are for the birds and the people who study them!

In order to bring any Rota whiteeye into human care to study, we observe their habits and habitat. This means that the bird field team are ready at the field site before dawn.

Specially designed bird mist nets are set up around the birds’ foraging trees. Soon enough,

just as the sun warms the flowers on an avocado tree, the buzzing insects attract the white-eyes. As the birds forage, they fly into the mist nests and are instantly removed by a patient team member who has been sitting quietly in brush monitoring the nets. Removing a tiny bird from fine netting requires great dexterity, gentleness and skill, mixed with a sense of urgency. Days of heavy rain, wind and heat impact the short window of time in which the field team has to set up the field site and mist nets, care for birds, and eventually take all the gear back down.

“To know our efforts and observations become part of a larger conservation conversation with our guests back in St. Louis is incredibly rewarding,” said Marija Elden, Zoological Manager of Birds. “Inspiring future conservationists is just one of many reasons that motivate me.”

Veterinary Care

While the birds are in human care, they receive a complete physical examination to make sure there are no underlying medical concerns.

Birds are treated if they have feather lice. Feces are screened for GI parasites with treatment administered as needed. If any concerns are present, we may administer supportive care such as fluids or start antibiotics and other treatments. There is very little scientific information known about these endangered birds, so the opportunity to collect samples for future work is important. Blood is collected for genetic testing and a review of their blood cells. A feather is collected to determine the bird’s gender through DNA testing. And daily fecal collections allow for the measurement of cortisol, commonly noted as a “stress hormone.” Birds are released after examination. This work is just a snapshot of the work we do through the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute, our Zoo’s conservation arm. The WildCare Institute focuses on three key ingredients for conservation success: wildlife management and recovery, conservation science, and support of the human populations that coexist with wildlife. Learn more at stlzoo.org/wildcare. n

Students assist with field work

Zoo Director of Animal Health Chris Hanley, DVM, examines a bird

The team examines a mist net for the birds

happenings

Jammin’ at the Zoo

Fridays, July 21 and Aug. 18; to 10:30 p.m.

We’ll have unique, themed evenings that highlight different animals and cultures — including food, drinks and entertainment — on the Fridays of the event. Kids can participate in educational activities focused on conserving animals through the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute. Plus, receive a HullabaZoo Passport at your first Friday night event; bring it back to every HullabaZoo for a chance to win prizes later! Sponsored by Mid America Chevy Dealers and Prairie Farms Dairy. Free. Learn more: stlzoo.org/hullabazoo.

Green Living Festival

Saturday, July 8; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Come to the Zoo for educational activites and to learn about ways you can implement “green living” solutions in your everyday life. Held in partnership with other Zoo Museum District organizations. Free.

The Zoo Young Professionals host a summer party that includes wine and beer tastings, plus live entertainment. Food is available for purchase. Sponsored by Breakthru Beverage, Coca Cola, Mid America Chevy Dealers and Urban Chestnut Brewery Company. Ages 21+ only. ZYP members may use their free tickets. Zoo members: $35; Non-members: $45. Learn more at stlzoo.org/jammin.

World Elephant Day/Toss the Tusk

Friday, Aug. 11; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

In this combined event, learn about Asian elephants, the threats they face and how we can help them. Toss the Tusk is a series of events taking place at zoos across the U.S. to raise awareness about the elephant poaching crisis and illegal ivory trade. Guests are encouraged to support long-term conservation efforts by surrendering any unwanted elephant ivory. Organized by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Wildlife Trafficking Alliance and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Free. Check back to stlzoo.org to learn more.

Prairie Farms Dairy

Summer Zoo Weekends

From May 26 through Aug. 20, the Zoo will offer extended hours for more Zoo fun!

School Spirit Day

Tuesday, Aug. 15

Before the school year starts, join us for special activities and show your school spirit! Free. Check back to stlzoo.org to learn more.

Educator Open House

Tuesday, Aug. 15; 6 to 8 p.m.

Educators are invited to learn more about the Zoo’s educational programs. Advance registration required.

Free. RSVP by Aug. 1. Parking available in the North Lot. Please email onlineregistration@stlzoo.org to learn more. Please note: this event is for education professionals only (teachers, administrators and curriculum coordinators).

Saint Louis Zoo Estate Planning Dinner

Wednesday, Aug. 16; 5:30 p.m.

Did you know the Zoo offers complimentary and confidential estate

happenings

planning services? The Zoo Planned Giving Committee is hosting a dinner for those who are interested in learning more. Email plannedgiving@stlzoo.org for event details and to reserve your seats by Aug. 2.

Sea Lion Show

Daily through Aug. 20, Sept. 2-4; Weekends only, Aug. 26 – Oct. 1, Oct. 7-29; Visit stlzoo.org for showtimes

Sea lion superstars will thrill you with jumps and lots of splashing! Shows will be held at the Lichtenstein Sea Lion Arena, which features an 811-seat amphitheater for seasonal shows. Zoo members: Included in member/premium member tickets. Non-members: $3.95/ person. Children under age 2 are free.

New Bird Show: Winging It

Daily through Aug. 20, Sept. 2-4;

Weekends only, Aug. 26 – Oct. 1; Visit stlzoo.org for showtimes

In this amazing, free-flying presentation, a variety of exotic and native birds will demonstrate their natural abilities, and some will even soar right over your head! With the help of these fine feathered ambassadors, trainers will clear up fact from fiction. Shows will be held at the Lichtenstein Sea Lion Arena, which

features an 811-seat amphitheater for seasonal shows. Zoo members: Included in member/premium member tickets. Non-members: $3.95/person. Children under age 2 are free.

Ape & Primate Awareness Day

Friday, Sept. 8

Learn about apes and primates, the threats they face, and how we can help them. Free. Check back to stlzoo.org to learn more.

Climate Solutions Day

Sunday, Sept. 24; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Guests can meet with Zoo experts, as well as representatives from other local conservation organizations, and learn about relevant and realistic communitylevel climate solutions. Free. Check back to stlzoo.org to learn more.

Zootoberfest

Saturdays and Sundays, Sept. 30 – Oct. 1, Oct. 7-8; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Check out Oktoberfest festivities with some Zoo flair! Each weekend, guests can hear German-themed music and enjoy special menus and seasonal drinks for purchase. Free entry. Check back to stlzoo.org to learn more.

Build First Aid Kits at the Zoo

Thursdays through Nov. 2

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

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). Free.

Hours

Through Aug. 20

The Zoo is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays through Thursdays and 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Aug. 21 – Sept. 1, Sept. 5 – Oct. 11 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Labor Day Weekend (Sept. 2-4) 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Gain a Trunk Full of Knowledge Education Programs for Early Childhood, Youth,

EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Fees are listed PER CHILD. These programs are designed for you and your child to learn about animals and explore the natural world together. Programs are interactive and may include songs and stories, art opportunities, role-playing games, hands-on investigations and more.

FOR CHILDREN AGES 6–12 MONTHS

Chirps, Tweets and Coos

Explore animal sounds with your little one and learn some new songs and finger plays to enjoy together.

C1209CT – December 9 (Sa); 9-10 a.m.

Limited to 14 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child.

Fee: Zoo Members $25/General Public $28

FOR CHILDREN AGES 12–24 MONTHS

Early Explorers

Leap into the world of animal movements as we discover how animals fly, slither, swim and explore the world around them, just like your little one.

C0930EE – September 30 (Sa); 9-10 a.m.

Limited to 14 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child.

Fee: Zoo Members $25/General Public $28

Fall Friends

Celebrate the changing seasons and discover what makes autumn so magical! We will use our senses to explore all that nature has to offer during this special time of year.

C1022FF – October 22 (Su); 9-10 a.m.

Limited to 14 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child.

Fee: Zoo Members $25/General Public $28

FOR CHILDREN AGES 2–3

Backyard Buddies

Do you know who’s living in your backyard?

Come dig in the dirt to discover who helps our gardens grow and investigate all the amazing animals that live right under our noses.

C0917BB – September 17 (Su); 9-10 a.m.

Limited to 14 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child.

Fee: Zoo Members $25/General Public $28

Playful Primates

Come learn about the lemurs, monkeys and apes at the Zoo. We’ll be exploring what

they eat, how they move and where they live. This class will conclude with a visit to see these playful primates in action!

C1007PP – October 7 (Sa); 9-10 a.m.

Limited to 14 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child.

Fee: Zoo Members $25/General Public $28

Fall, Fur and Feathers

As fall weather turns cooler, animals are busy getting ready for winter. Join us for a celebration of autumn and explore how nature and animals change with the seasons.

C1119FF – November 19 (Su); 9-10 a.m.

Limited to 14 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child.

Fee: Zoo Members $25/General Public $28

Sensational Seals and Sea Lions

Is it a seal or is it a sea lion? Explore the similarities and differences between these two marine mammals. This class will include a visit to Sea Lion Sound to see the seals and sea lions.

C1217SS – December 17 (Su); 9-10 a.m.

Limited to 14 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child.

Fee: Zoo Members $25/General Public $28

Colors, Stripes and Spots

Some creatures are boldly beautiful, while others are cleverly camouflaged. Discover why animals have such an amazing diversity of patterns and colors.

C0120CS – January 20 (Sa); 9-10 a.m.

Limited to 14 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child.

Fee: Zoo Members $25/General Public $28

FOR CHILDREN AGES 3–5

Sharks and Rays

Dive into the world of these prehistoric creatures, as we learn about the sharks and stingrays at the Zoo and in the wild. This class includes a visit to the Stingrays at Caribbean Cove.

C0909SR – September 9 (Sa); 9-10:30 a.m.

Limited to 14 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child.

Fee: Zoo Members $27/General Public $30

Grossology

Some animals may seem gross or scary, but they’re not! We will explore vomiting vultures, spectacular spiders, lovely leeches and more in this creepy class.

C1015GR – October 15 (Su); 9-10:30 a.m.

Limited to 14 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child.

Fee: Zoo Members $27/General Public $30

Wonderful Wolves

Join the pack as we explore wolves and other cool canines! We will learn about the endangered American red wolves living at the Saint Louis Zoo’s Sears Lehmann, Jr. Wildlife Reserve in Franklin County.

C1111WW – November 11 (Sa); 9-10:30 a.m.

Limited to 14 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child.

Fee: Zoo Members $27/General Public $30

Holiday Critter Crafts

The holidays are fun! Why not share the festivities with the wildlife in your own backyard? We’ll create a seasonal treat for birds, as well as make nature-themed decor to take home.

C1203HC – December 3 (Su); 9-10:30 a.m.

Limited to 14 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child.

Fee: Zoo Members $27/General Public $30

Lizards

Crawl into the world of leaping and lounging lizards as we explore tails, scales and more! We will visit the Herpetarium to check out some different kinds of lizards.

C0113LZ – January 13 (Sa); 9-10:30 a.m.

Limited to 14 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child.

Fee: Zoo Members $27/General Public $30

Painting Polar Bear

Come learn about our polar bear pals and their Arctic home. Then, you and your little one will work together to paint your own Arctic landscape using fun and creative techniques.

C0128PP – January 28 (Su); 9-10:30 a.m.

Limited to 14 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child.

Fee: Zoo Members $27/General Public $30

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Youth attend these programs on their own, unaccompanied by a parent or other adult.

SCHOOL BREAK CAMPS FOR STUDENTS IN GRADES 1–5

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! Online registration only.

Knowledge at the Zoo! Fall 2023 Families and Adults

Black Friday Camp: Holiday Hierarchies

We will kick off the holiday season by learning about the different social and ecological structures that the animal kingdom lives by. Campers will observe social behaviors on Zoo grounds and play games to experience the different roles animals play in their ecosystem. Add Before and/or After-Care for an additional fee.

Y1124BC – November 24 (F); 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $61/General Public $68

Black Friday Camp Before-Care

Participants can enjoy a continental breakfast (cereal, fruit, milk, juice) and indoor activities until camp begins. This program is for Black Friday Camp participants only.

Y1124AM – November 24 (F); 7-8:30 a.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $7/General Public $8

Black Friday Camp After-Care

Participants will enjoy various activities building on their camp experience. This program is for Black Friday Camp participants only.

Y1124PM – November 24 (F); 4-6 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $17/General Public $19

Winter Break Camp: Where the Wild Things Live

From a hive to a nest, from a burrow to a den, all of these are places animals create and construct to call “home”. This camp’s activities are focused on the different shapes and sizes animal homes and habitats come in. Add Before and/or After-Care for an additional fee.

Y1226WC – December 26-29 (T-F); 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $245/General Public $270

Winter Break Camp Before-Care

Participants can enjoy a continental breakfast (cereal, fruit, milk, juice) and indoor activities until camp begins. This program is for Winter Break Camp participants only.

Y1226AM – December 26-29 (T-F); 7-8:30 a.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $28/General Public $32

Winter Break Camp After-Care

Participants will enjoy various activities building on their camp experience. This program is for Winter Break Camp participants only.

Y1226PM – December 26-29 (T-F); 4-6 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $68/General Public $76

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Camp: Telling Tails

Long or short, feathered or furry, tails come in all shapes and sizes. Whether they are used for balance or for grasping onto trees, tails are important adaptations which help the animals survive in their habitats. Come to camp to explore all sorts of telling tails! Add Before and/or After-Care for an additional fee.

Y0115MC – January 15 (M); 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $61/General Public $68

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Camp Before-Care

Participants can enjoy a continental breakfast (cereal, fruit, milk, juice) and indoor activities until camp begins. This program is for MLK Day Camp participants only.

Y0115AM – January 15 (M); 7-8:30 a.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $7/General Public $8

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Camp

After-Care

Participants will enjoy various activities building on their camp experience. This program is for MLK Day Camp participants only.

Y0115PM – January 15 (M); 4-6 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $17/General Public $19

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 towards 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.

Backyard Bonanza Snooze

The Saint Louis Zoo is committed to conserving animals from all over the world, including the ones living in our own backyards! From songbirds to spring peepers, the Zoo’s WildCare Institute helps to protect many animals found right here in Missouri and other parts of North America. Come discover how we can all make a difference for the animals that share our homes!

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 glow-in-the-dark overnight cup!

For Girl Scout Brownies and their adult chaperones

November 3-4; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

January 27-28; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

February 16-17; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

March 23-24; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

April 5-6; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

April 20-21; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

For Girl Scout Juniors and their adult chaperones

November 10-11; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

January 20-21; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

February 24-25; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

March 15-16; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

April 13-14; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

April 26-27; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

For Cadettes and their adult chaperones

November 18-19; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

February 2-3; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

April 19-20; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

For Cub Scouts and their adult chaperones

November 17-18; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

January 19-20; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

February 10-11; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

March 8-9; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

April 27-28; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

For Mixed Troops and their adult chaperones

January 26-27; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

March 2-3; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

Limited to 60 participants per session.

Fee: $50 per participant

Online Registration Available

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 listed are per person. Visit the website to complete a 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 per participant

Backyard Bonanza

Limited to 60 participants. 30 participant minimum.

Fee: $50 per participant

FAMILY PROGRAMS

Parents and children attend these programs together. Fees are per group.

Polar Bear Plunge

For families with children ages 5 and up.

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.

N1201PB – December 1-2; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

N0316PB – March 16-17;

6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $70/General Public $75

Escape Dinoroarus!

For family groups with children ages 5 and up. A minimum of one adult must accompany the group.

Travel through prehistoric time to escape the dinos! Uncover clues and solve puzzles to find

your way out of Dinoroarus! Discover what happened to the dinosaurs and what great things they’ve left behind for us. Limited to eight people per family group. See the summer family program listings for availability and to register.

I0724ED – July 24 (M); 6-7:30 p.m.

I0808ED – Aug 8 (Tu); 6-7:30 p.m

I0912ED – Sept 12 (Tu); 5:30-7 p.m.

Limited to 8 participants per family group. Maximum of two groups per session.

Fee: Zoo Members $120/General Public $130

SAFARI WALKING TOURS

For families and groups of up to 10 participants, ages 8 and up. A minimum of one adult must accompany the group.

Make your Zoo visit even more memorable with a Safari Walking Tour! Tag along with our professional interpretive guides as they offer insight to the animal world with engaging stories, interesting facts and animal observations. This tour does not include touching live animals or access to non-public areas. Choose one of the following topics:

Back From the Brink Walking Safari

Meet us for a walking safari tour through River’s Edge as we focus on the challenges and successes of breeding endangered species.

Here, There and Everywhere:

Wildcare Walking Safari

Join us as we explore why and how the Zoo is a world leader in saving endangered species through the work of our WildCare Institute.

Walk on the Wild Side Safari

Join our guide as you trek through the wilderness, passing through Centene Grizzly Ridge, McDonnell Polar Bear Point and the Donn & Marilyn Lipton Fragile Forest. Discover the simple things you can do to help save animals!

Tour length: 60 minutes

Limited to 10 participants, ages 8 and up. A minimum of one adult must accompany the group.

Fee per family group: $80

Visit the website to complete a booking request form. Booking times available on select days, between 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

ADULT PROGRAMS FOR AGES 18 AND UP Escape the Zoo

For participants ages 18 and up.

To help the Zoo save animals from extinction, you must unlock the secrets of the Zoo through a team building adventure! Race against time to complete your mission by solving a series of puzzles and finding clues hidden along the pathways. Use these clues to discover what the Zoo is all about! We have a new challenge this year and welcome any past participants. Build your team of up to 10 individuals ages 18 and up. See the adult summer program listings for availability and to register.

I0711EZ – July 11 (Tu); 6-7:30 p.m.

I0821EZ – Aug 21 (M); 6-7:30 p.m.

I0905EZ – Sept 5 (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 $180/General Public $190

Adult 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.

N1111PB – November 11-12;

6:30 p.m. (Sa) - 8:30 a.m. (Su)

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $75/ General Public $80

PRIVATE ADULT OVERNIGHT PROGRAMS

Adults age 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. For more information and pricing, please contact the Overnight Staff at overnights@stlzoo.org.

REGISTRATION: Registration must be received at least two weeks prior to the program date or at least one month if paying by check. Registration forms can be mailed or dropped off (no facsimiles accepted). Online registration available on our website. No unregistered children (siblings, infants, etc.) may attend. PARKING: Options include the Zoo’s parking lots for a fee, or free street parking throughout Forest Park. PAYMENT: Complete payment is required at the time of registration. Credit cards, checks and Saint Louis Zoo Gift Cards are accepted. A separate check must be sent for each program. Check payments must be received at least one month prior to your program date(s). For those programs that are sold out, checks will be returned. If the balance on your Saint Louis Zoo Gift Card does not cover the cost of all your programs, you must include credit card information to cover the price difference. Use of the Saint Louis Zoo Gift Cards are subject to the Terms and Conditions listed on our website. CANCELLATIONS: A refund minus a processing fee will be issued for all cancellations received two weeks prior to the first day of the program in which you are registered ($25 for multiple day, and $8 for single day programs). Please check your availability before registering. We reserve the right to cancel a program due to low enrollment (full refund will be issued). TRANSFERS: Two weeks’ notice and a processing fee are required to transfer ($25 for multiple day, and $8 for single day programs). IMPORTANT: To prevent the spread of COVID-19, additional restrictions may be required for all in-person programs. Visit the Education Overview section on the website for more details. YOUTH ATTENDEES: See the Zoo’s policy for escorting children under 14. LOCATION: Programs will be held at the Zoo. CONFIRMATIONS: A Registration Report will be e-mailed after your registration is processed. Contact the Education Department at (314) 646-4544, option #6 for more information.

Sign Up Now!

Fall Registration Form

Individual Registration Form

 I am a Zoo Member and can take advantage of the discount on registration fees. Member # ________________ Level

List Name and Address as listed on membership or list Head of Household for General Public participants:

Your e-mail address may be used to send you information about your Saint Louis Zoo education program. Please check here  if you would also like to receive occasional e-mail updates, news and information about other Zoo opportunities. We will not sell, trade or exchange your e-mail address with any third parties.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS (Required for all program participants)

Claims Release I, on behalf of myself and my family, recognize and acknowledge the risk existing as participant(s) in a Saint Louis Zoo program or activity. I fully and unconditionally release the Saint Louis Zoo, all associates and/or assigns from any and all claims for personal injury and/or property damage. I voluntarily declare this release to be my full acknowledgment to relinquish all rights for any and all injury and/or property damage resulting from participation in Zoo programs or activities. Photos taken by the Saint Louis Zoo staff and volunteers during any program or activity are property of the Zoo and may be used for public relations purposes related to the Zoo.

The following applies for In-Person Programs: Although safety precautions as to your visit are taken by the Saint Louis Zoo, every visitor/program participant is responsible for his or her personal safety and that of children or others under their supervision. In consideration of access to the Zoo, visitors/program participants (a) agree to comply with Zoo policies and instructions, including those on signage (b) understand and agree that the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, has recently infected individuals in the St. Louis area, that it is contagious and that it can spread to persons in any number of ways (c) agree that they assume responsibility for any injury (including personal injury, disability or death), illness, damage, loss claim, liability, or expense arising out of or related to COVID-19 experienced or contracted in connection with a Zoo visit/program (d) that they waive and release all claims against the Zoo and its commissioners, officers, employees, volunteers and agents relative to the foregoing matters and (e) that they agree that the Zoo is legally entitled to sovereign immunity regarding to any such claims.

Medical Consent In case of emergency, I understand that every effort will be made to reach me, followed by the emergency contact. In the event that neither I, nor my emergency contact can be reached, I give my consent for my child to be taken to the nearest appropriate hospital for immediate care.

If participant (listed below) is 18 years or older, participant must Sign for themselves  OR if Participant (listed below) is under 18 years, Parent/Legal Guardian must Sign 

Signature:

Participantís Relationship to Head of Household/Member above (son, daughter, etc): Check all boxes that apply to the participant. We may contact you for additional information.  Asthma  Shortness of Breath on Exertion

List participantís allergies: Food Allergies Other Allergies

Are there any accommodations you would like to request for the participant? We will contact you if we are unable to meet your request. Please explain anything else you would like us to know.

Will your child bring an EpiPenÆ or other epinephrine auto-injector?  Yes  No

Child Birth Date: Grade:  Adult Birth Date:

If you selected ìYes,î you must complete the FARE form (Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency Care Plan).

If you selected ëYesí, you must complete the Zooís medication form for prescribed and over-the-counter medications, which can be found on the Zooís website. Trained Zoo personnel will only administer medication in an emergency situation. Please specify all medications that your child will be using before or during the program.

Will your child need to take medication during Zoo program hours?  Yes  No

Emergency Contact Name: Phone(s):

$

METHOD OF PAYMENT Complete payment is due at the time of registration.

 CHECK you must register at least one month prior to your program date(s).

 Please make all checks payable to: "Saint Louis Zoo Ed Dept"

 A SEPARATE CHECK MUST BE PROVIDED FOR EACH PROGRAM REQUESTED.

 A fee will be charged for checks returned due to insufficient funds.

 Saint Louis Zoo GIFT CARD – you must register at least two weeks prior to your program date(s).

AMOUNT FROM GIFT CARD $_________ Please list the information from the back of the Zoo Gift Card:

 CREDIT CARD – you must register at least two weeks prior to your program date(s).

 VISA  MASTERCARD  DISCOVER  AMERICAN EXPRESS

AMOUNT DUE $_________ Please complete the following information:

A Family Legacy of Giving: The Henry A. Jubel Foundation

By Jeff Huntington, Director of Development

On May 12, 2023, the Henry A. Jubel Foundation publicly announced that it had significantly expanded its involvement and leadership at the Saint Louis Zoo. On that day, they shared with the community that the Foundation was making the lead gift of $15 million to aid in the creation of the Henry A. Jubel Foundation Destination Discovery, to be constructed in the former Emerson Children’s Zoo space.

The entire Jubel family wanted to be involved in the decision to support the Zoo in such a substantial way. Don and Karen Jubel, along with their three adult children — Melissa, Lindsey and Lance — collaborated closely. When they shared their exciting news with our Zoo team earlier in the year, some members of the family joined in St. Louis, while others connected virtually from other states.

Melissa Jubel Markwort, Executive Director of the Henry A. Jubel Foundation, shared, “Our family has a longstanding and deep connection with the Zoo. We visit regularly, and my sister even worked at the Children’s Zoo in high school. When the Children’s Zoo closed in 2020, we knew we wanted to be a part of bringing this space back to life and in an even better way. The Jubel Foundation is proud to be associated with the Zoo, and we look forward to being a part of reimagining this wonderful space.”

Closing the former Children’s Zoo was not an easy decision, nor one made lightly. But the Zoo promised to bring it back in a new format.

Michael Macek, Saint Louis Zoo Director, said, “The Jubel family’s extraordinary gift will inspire many other families to support this effort. When this new facility opens in 2026, future generations of children will

make lifelong memories from special encounters with animals and Zoo team members. Their heartfelt generosity puts Animals Always into action.”

Since 2019, the Zoo has partnered with the Jubel Foundation to carry out the Foundation’s mission: supporting young people seeking to improve their lives through education. The Foundation’s philanthropic vision is reflected in Zoo programs, exhibits and materials that educate young people about wildlife, inspire scientific inquiry, engender empathy for animals and motivate them to preserve the natural world.

The Saint Louis Zoo is grateful to the Henry A. Jubel Foundation and the Jubel family for their contributions to the Zoo and the St. Louis community. Together, we will help create new Zoo memories for children and families who visit Destination Discovery! n

From left to right: Lindsey Jubel, Don Jubel, Karen Jubel, Melissa Markwort, Penelope Markwort, Herbie Markwort and Lance Jubel

From left to right: Saint Louis Zoo Director Michael Macek; Dana Brown President & CEO, Saint Louis Zoo, Dwight Scott; and Melissa Markwort, Executive Director, Henry A. Jubel Foundation; unveil signage for Destination Discovery

Dana Brown Charitable Trust: Connecting People to Animals in Extraordinary Ways

By Cheryl Rossman, Director, Major Gifts

The Dana Brown Charitable Trust has been a longstanding and visionary partner for the Saint Louis Zoo since 1973 when Charlie Hoessle, Saint Louis Zoo Director from 1982 to 2002 and current Director Emeritus, hosted Dana’s first Zoo visit.

Charlie Hoessle recently said, “Dana asked for Zoo tours, not only to observe animals and talk to their keepers, but to watch the guests share their Zoo experience with friends and family.”

Charlie recalled that on one of the visits, Dana sat in front of the giraffe habitat for hours. “He was taking everything in — the giraffes, exuberant guests, curious children, and the excitement of an outdoor adventure that connected people to wildlife and created lifelong memories.”

Rhae Yancey, Dana Brown Charitable Trust’s Executive

Director said, “the Zoo checks all of Dana Brown’s philanthropic boxes: enriching the lives of children while caring for the health and welfare of animals in the St. Louis metro area.”

The Dana Brown Charitable Trust recently partnered with the Zoo to construct the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park Pilot Conservation Pasture. The pilot pasture is a critical element in the creation of WildCare Park; animals are slated to arrive at this pasture later this year.

WildCare Park, located in north St. Louis County, will allow the Zoo to make significant contributions to protecting endangered species, offer the residents of the St. Louis area a unique and unforgettable experience, and provide notable educational and economic impacts for the north St. Louis County area and the entire region.

The expansion of the Zoo’s conservation efforts is timely as many species of wildlife are facing global extinction on a massive scale. Once open in 2027, WildCare Park is estimated to welcome 425,000 guests annually. Guests will be able to connect with these endangered animals and experience memorable conservation education programs.

The Saint Louis Zoo is sincerely grateful for Dana Brown’s quiet, but generous, philanthropic support during his lifetime. Dana Brown’s legacy and his passion for children, animals and the residents of the St. Louis region continues to this day through the support of the Dana Brown Charitable Trust. n

An artistic rendering of the Dana Brown Pilot Conservation Pasture at Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park

Rhae Yancey, Dana Brown Charitable Trust Executive Director, and Dwight Scott, Dana Brown President & CEO

Lt. Col. Charles R. Dearth Family Fund: A Grandfather’s Lasting Impact

By Robin Kraujalis, Manager,

He started bringing his children to the Saint Louis Zoo when he was stationed at Scott Air Force Base. He, his wife Carolyn and their family stayed in the area after he retired and began a second career as a program engineer at Dell Computers. He was a lifelong learner and loved all things computer-related: designing, building and operations.

decided to carry forth his legacy at the Zoo by continuing their annual support as Marlin Perkins Society members; investing in capital improvements; and setting up a named endowed fund in his memory, the Lt. Col. Charles R. Dearth Family Fund. The Dearth family is also recognized at Primate Canopy Trails and with a brick in the South Plaza.

“If I would have known my grandchildren would be this great, I would have had them first,” Lt. Col. Charles R. “Chuck” Dearth often said.

He was proud of his 28 years in the U.S. Air Force serving his country, but the role he cherished most was that of Papa to his beloved grandchildren: Matthew, Raelynn, Lucas, Connor, Lizzi, Caroline, Celiese and Caelyn.

His daughter Cynthia Hill said that what he loved most about the Zoo was watching the children and seeing the joy on their faces. “I’ve got to do whatever I can to keep this Zoo free for everyone,” he told her when he starting making gifts to the Zoo about 25 years ago. “We could come to the Zoo 20 times a year, and he’d always find something new. It was like his second home,” Hill said.

When Chuck passed away in 2021, Carolyn and Cynthia

“This Zoo is fantastic … it’s always growing, and my grandchildren love it,” Carolyn said. “I can’t think of a better way to use our money and to honor Chuck.”

We are grateful for those who have chosen to support the Zoo through these special endowment gifts. By naming this endowed fund, the Dearth family has helped ensure that the Zoo will remain a world-class institution for future generations to cherish and enjoy. n

Planned Giving

Lt. Col. Charles R. Dearth and Carolyn Dearth

The Dearths’ grandchildren enjoy a visit to the Bayer Insectarium

Dearth family

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

Feb. 1 – April 30, 2023

Aaron & Brittany Chrisman

Terry & Kathy Disher

Amy & Douglas Dove

Robert & Jane Goldsmith

August & Lindsey Hager IV

Kelley & Jack Hartnett

Debra & Mark Irving

Pavla & Daniel Landiss

McKelvey Homes, LLC

Andy & Kristen Miedler

Chad Niemeier

Sheila & Jim Schnurbusch

Derek & Stephanie Schwendinger

Deb Seidel

Kelly & John Stickley

James & Wendy Walsh

Christina & Geoff Wilson

Steven Witthaus

Adam Young & Jennifer Kieffer

Current Marlin Perkins Society Members Who Have Increased Support

Feb. 1 – April 30, 2023

Mark & Kimberly Atkins

Lee Berger (10)

John & Penelope Biggs

Collin Cox & Angela Schaefer

Daniel & Rochelle Cox (10)

Tim & Maria Desloge

Edco Realty Co.

Margaret & Gordon Finley

Mr. & Mrs. William T. Gamewell (10)

Mark Gilje & Caroline Gilje, DVM (15)

Mrs. Barbara Goodman

Elizabeth & Austin Kent

Jeffrey & Louise Levine

Bruce & Diana Linders (10)

Melissa & Herbert Markwort

Anna & Dan Ramacciotti

Mr. & Mrs. Marc Seldin (10)

Mr. & Mrs. John R. Sondag

Dr. John A. Sopuch

Sally Terrace & Al Henneboehle (20)

William & Shannon Willhite

Luke Yamnitz

(10) denotes member for at least 10 years

(15) denotes member for at least 15 years

(20) denotes member for at least 20 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)

American flamingo

Saint Louis Zoo 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 Feb. 1 – April 30, 2023. Donors are listed in the category of their most recent giving to the Saint Louis Zoo.

Leadership Gifts

$15,000,000 and Above

Henry A. Jubel Foundation

$4,999,999 – $1,000,000

Kevin Beckmann Charitable Trust

$749,999 – $500,000

Estate of Carol S. Gronau

The Hunter Family Foundation

$499,999 – $250,000

Estate of Rosette Ellman

Major Gifts

$249,999 – $100,000

Ken & Sharon Johnson

$99,999 – $50,000

Jo Annette Oertli

Dr. Charles & Dr. Elizabeth Schmitz

$49,999 – $25,000

Anonymous

Estate of Robert L. Openlander

Ranken Jordan Pediatric Rehab

Special Gifts

$24,999 – $10,000

Ms. Betty Beckmann

Estate of Dixie Lohse

The Loomstein Family

Marshall Fellowship Fund

Carol J. Schreiner

$9,999 – $5,000

Anonymous

Alan & Dottye Akerson

Michael W. & Joyce E. Bytnar

Drs. Dan & Susan Luedke

Milwaukee County Zoo

Lisa & Joe VonderHaar

Tina & Gary VonderHaar

$4,999 – $2,500

Anonymous

Leo R. Buder Foundation Trust

$2,499 – $1,000

Anonymous

AAZK – St. Louis Chapter

Anthony J. & Claire Bardol

Ms. Karla Carter & Mr. Wouter Bollen

Ms. Jane Cook

Mr. Gregory J. Goellner

Mrs. Ruth C. Hellstern

Jeffrey L. Huntington

Ms. LaVona E. Jordan

Dr. Cecilia C. Marshall, DVM

Sanford N. McDonnell Foundation

Joyce Orange

Katy Robertson & Christopher Lynn

Rossman School

Marvin & Barbara Stewart

Dr. Elizabeth Tarpey

TBE Architects

James & Jean Terry

Ms. June Wartenbe

Karen L. Weissflug

$999 – $250

Mr. Parker B. Condie

El Paso Zoo

Timothy & Gay Ellis

Kim Everett

Federated Garden Clubs of Missouri

Aaron Fish

Joanne Graham

Irene & Bob Gulovsen

Dr. Wes Kimberlin

Matt Mahn

Dr. Jay Marshall

Guy & Kim Phillips

Jason Saey

Mrs. Marylyn A. Schiller

Irene & Mark Spielman

Ms. Patricia Taillon-Miller

Curtis & Mindy Voelkel

Peter Walsh

Kimberly & Stephen Whitaker

Sarah & Donald Yeargain

Jenny Zadeh

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.

Saint Louis Zoo Tribute Fund

Donors providing the Saint Louis Zoo Tribute Fund with gifts of $25 or more between Feb. 1 – April 30, 2023, to honor or memorialize events and loved ones include:

In Memory Of

Russell Belcher

Ms. Judith L. Ciegel & Mr. Mike Crecelius

Gregory L. Hassler

Olivia & David Hoffmann

B. J. Ridenhour

Elizabeth A. Biddick

Ms. Donna F. Botkin

Howard Bland

Joanne B. Bland

Robert J. Bodine

Dr. Leslie J. Friedman

Carole L. Brouk

Larry Kopp

Jeanne Reynolds

William & Mary Walsh

William P. Castle

John & Judy Pohl

Edith M. Curtis

Laura Zaccari

William Gammon

Mr. & Mrs. Charlie E. Lardner, Jr.

Karen A. Goellner

Ms. Susan Latorre

Diane G. Harbaugh

Jo Ann Bunton

Mr. & Mrs. Jay Christensen

Joyce Debenport

Ms. Eleanor L. Douglass

Phil & Carole Hesley

Jeffrey Johannes

Mr. & Mrs. Dan Jura

Dr. James & Nancy Nahlik

Mrs. Lora A. Pemberton

Angie M. Sant

John & Madeleine Spear

Shirley Stein

Scott Will

Ursula Hendon

Ron & Carol Jablonski

Elizabeth Jablonski

Ron & Carol Jablonski

Jean M. Lange

Dave Mulherin

Lisa & Jon Clyne

Steve W. Norris

Jamie Anyan

Thomas D. Brown

Mr. Jordan B. Cherrick

Barb & Jim Decker Family

Richard A. Diffley

Aaron Fish

Gary & Joyce Follman

Sheryl K. Haven

Joan Kersting

Molly Lancaster

Lisa Nieroda

Erwin & Laura Orendain

Kathleen M. Patton

Donald Pratt

Beth A. Riedler

Diana M. Schenk

Matthew Shepard

Elizabeth R. Sprenger

Dale Stafford

Deb Wess

Angela Willis

Edward P. Ortleb

Linda & Phillip Beese

Edna L. Schoknecht

Ms. Betty S. Balzer

Pat A. Schroyer

James & Martha Caristi

Lisa & Jon Clyne

Ms. LaVona E. Jordan

Loriann Keilman

John & Lou Ann Lawrence

Chris Sipe

Kathy M. Sokol

Robert J. Schukai

Mr. & Mrs. Jon Dulle

Kiz Olson

Shauna B. Sullivan

Mr. Edward F. Yang

Robert F. Steinkuehler

Thomas & Diane Crews

Helen A. Parke

Lance Thibault

Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Cantwell

Joan Thompson

Tim & Janet Berry

Norman K. Brown

Chad Michler

Michael & Lyla Novakowski

Joan E. Walsh

Peter Walsh

Julia G. Wilderman

Betty Bruns

Mr. & Mrs. David L. Reindl

Jim Willa

Suzanne Gordon

Mary Winter

Ann Holder

Terra Yeargain

Celeste J. Cuba

Connie Kuntz

Carolyn R. Sprehe

Sarah & Donald Yeargain

In Honor Of

Michael T. & Patricia M. Abbene

Jerry & Barbara Schroy

Jeannie Freeman

Kerrie M. Laytin

Ms. Joyce A. Clyne

Lisa & Jon Clyne

Steven Fazzari

St. Louis Council of Charitable Gift Planners

Forsee Family

Clyde & Donna Wiseman

Dr. Mary Jean Gorse

Ms. Jackie L. Abels

Dr. Burny R. Baxter

Alicia Blose

Dr. & Mrs. William J. Boever

Michael Booher

Ms. Amy Brauss

James & Deschene Brochtrup

Damon & Shannon Broyles

Sherry Bunch

Conrad Cregor

Rebecca Darland

Kristen Dellacamera

Jane & Dennis Doskal

Timothy & Gay Ellis

Elizabeth Fesser

Cheryl Fields

Frank & Martha Fischer

Kristen Gabriel

Bryce Goman & Deborah Polleck

Joanne Graham

Dr. Rebecca J. Greer

Donald & Cheryl Hemann

Edward W. Hickert

Cheryl & Bill Houston

Dr. Wes Kimberlin

Debbie M. Knott

Tim Koors

Matt Mahn

Shelby Mancini

Dr. Cecilia C. Marshall, DVM

Dr. Jay Marshall

Ms. Jane F. Merkel

Rob Mooney

Michelle & Robert Nack

Ms. Diane Neuhaus

Julie & David Nichols

Bria Ozment

Nicole Pace

Teri Phair & Brian Ward

Glen & Monica Phillips

Katie Pilgram-Kloppe

Benjamin & Kathryn Pratt

Rodney Rausch

Teresa Reissing

Tracé J. & Joseph A. Schniers

Nancy & Mark Schwartz

Ms. Donna Vicini

Jacqueline Welkener

Dr. Benjamin Yarnall

Matt & Sarah Zufall

Eric Gruenstein

Mr. & Mrs. Eric Vanderhoef

John Hoeflinger

Jordan & Laura Bond

Patricia & Ronald Hofmeister

Matthew Hofmeister

Mrs. Carolyn Losos

Mr. & Mrs. Charles H. Hoessle

Lily Neighbors

Ann K. & Brian Neighbors

Naveah Rich-Chapman

Lyann Pace

Mr. & Mrs. Richard C. Seifert

Clarendale Clayton

Thomas & Betty Tyler

William & Loura Gilbert II

Mr. & Mrs. Joe Munaco

Ms. Nancy Sachtleben

Mrs. Valerie O. Wall

Mrs. Elisa C. Crowley

Steve & Linda Dybus

Molly Misuraca

Ms. Susan & Craig Silver

Ursula Smith & Laura Smith

One Government Drive St. Louis, MO 63110

POSTMASTER: send address changes to stlzoo, Saint Louis Zoo, One Government Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110

Address Service Requested

Tunnel Masters

Black-tailed prairie dogs live in large towns, or systems of underground burrows and tunnels. These burrows protect them from carnivores. Burrows can be complex and extensive, and one burrow can support tens of thousands of dogs.

© stlzoo, Saint Louis Zoo, 2023

Photo by Ray Meibaum