Happy 2025! The start of a new year often brings some emotions to the forefront. It’s a time to celebrate our successes, learn where we can grow and prepare for the future. This issue of stlzoo magazine encompasses a mix of reflection and anticipation. We’re embarking on a lot of change, and we’re glad to have you with us on our journey.
We hope our cover story excites you for the future!
Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park is developing quickly and is on track to open to the public in 2027. Calves are being born, and plans are underway for a guest experience unlike any other in St. Louis. The goal is for guests to forget that they’re in the Midwest and to transport them on an African safari. Flip to page 6 and get a glimpse into how this campus is coming to life!
Our Animal Care team celebrated many achievements in 2024. We asked several of our curators about some of their favorite milestones from last year and included them in our article on page 12. It was tough to narrow all those successes down!
As a conservation organization, part of our role is sharing ways that people can make sustainable choices, which improves the well-being of animals and our planet. The new year is a great time to adopt some “green” habits!
We list several sustainable New Year’s resolutions in our article on pages 18 and 19. You can get the whole family involved, too — in our kids’ section on pages 32 and 33, we have sustainable resolutions for our younger readers.
We closed out 2024 with a great conservation announcement: the launch of the Center for Polar Bear Conservation, which will be part of the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute umbrella. This new Center will support research, fieldwork and outreach to help both wild polar bears in the Arctic and the people who live among them.
While January can seem long, cold, and ... well, boring ... we have some exciting events to erase some winter blues. From Trivia Gone Wild for adults 21+ to Animals Aglow presented by Wells Fargo, be sure to save the dates for these epic experiences.
As always, thank you for supporting the Saint Louis Zoo. Bundle up and come visit us soon!
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
in this issue
On the cover 4 20 18 6 12
Did you know...
… the Zoo has its own culinary team and executive chef? Learn about our chef’s inspirations for his culinary creations.
Bold beginnings at Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park
See how this 425-acre campus is coming to life and the impact it’s projected to have on our St. Louis region.
Best animal moments of 2024
Curated by our curators, check out milestones that made 2024 a great year for animal care.
Start your new year with a conservation mindset
The new year is a great time to make sustainable resolutions — get some ideas in this issue!
New polar bear conservation initiative
Learn about our newest WildCare Institute Center that will support both wild polar bears in the Arctic and the people who live among them.
Somali wild ass
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 and Email Assistance: Billy Brennan, Jill Gordon, Erin Heffernan, 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, Saint Louis Zoo members! In this section, we’ll briefly highlight top Zoo happenings in January, February and March 2025. If you have questions about your membership, please visit stlzoo.org/membership or contact us at (314) 646-4771, option 2.
Attractions and experiences
Giraffe Feedings
$2 discount per person
The feeding schedule is 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. daily, weather and conditions permitting.
Wild Explorer VR Experience
$2 discount per person
Showings daily
An important note on membership levels and benefits
Beginning in March 2025, our membership program will change, which will include new levels of membership and benefit changes. This new membership structure simplifies level choices and allows us to provide superior care for the animals, all while still providing value to you.
The current structure of your membership will remain the same until your membership expires. Once you renew, the benefits will change. More information will be provided to you upon renewal time.
Biggest changes:
Member levels: We will offer five membership levels, apart from the Marlin Perkins Society, for simplified choices.
Parking: Three of five levels of membership will come with unlimited $5 parking, and the two higher levels will feature unlimited free parking. Our parking lots will change to a pay-upon-exit system. This will help improve traffic congestion around our parking lots and help us better meet the needs of all members and guests.
What will stay the same?
Tickets for free entry into:
• Conservation Carousel
• Destination Discovery (upon opening in 2026)
• Sea Lion Show
• Stingrays at Caribbean Cove
• Zooline Railroad
Discounted admission to:
• Giraffe feedings
• Wild Explorer VR Experience showings
• Popular Zoo events, including Animals Aglow, Boo at the Zoo and Wild Lights
Discounts on education programs and food and gift shop purchases
Digital editions of stlzoo magazine
(you may opt in to receiving a printed copy at no cost; instructions to come)
Exclusive member previews for exhibits
presented by Wells Fargo
Wednesdays through Sundays, March 12-May 11, 2025
Sensory Nights: March 23 & April 9 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Animals Aglow is back and with new lanterns to see! Check back to stlzoo.org for more information.
did you
This one is for foodies! Many St. Louisans scour the region for local chefs’ culinary creations. What some may not know is that the Saint Louis Zoo has a culinary team, led by Executive Chef Brett Dorrance. This group caters the Zoo’s upscale events, including private celebrations like weddings and corporate gatherings, and certain Marlin Perkins Society member events. The culinary team will also provide delectable bites at our ZOOFARI fundraiser in June. We sat down with Chef Brett and got his insights about his role and flavorful concoctions.
How do you and your team come up with culinary creations?
We get inspiration from the countries or regions where our Zoo is conducting fieldwork; we see it as a celebration of these conservation efforts. We draw ideas from traditional foods and flavors of an area, then create our modern interpretations for guests.
you know?
3
2
What is your favorite type of cuisine to cook?
Having lived in Asia when I was young and traveling a lot, I like to cook with a global toolset. I love showcasing something familiar with unconventional flavors. One of my favorites is a tried-and-true roasted beef tenderloin but marinated in shio koji and served with a sauce deepened with fermented black garlic or miso. Another one is beef short ribs that are braised in maafe — a traditional African peanut stew — and lightened with a Senegalese rof — a bright sauce made of parsley, garlic and scallions — with the bright pop of scotch bonnet peppers alongside a Caribbean-style coconut bread to mop it all up.
What’s the most unique aspect of being Executive Chef at the Zoo?
How many people can say they’ve served dinners in a room with a polar bear lounging in the background, passed appetizers in an underwater tunnel with sea lions swimming above, or hosted a cocktail party overlooking the elephants grazing at sundown? I’d say that’s special.
Craving a bite?
If you’d like to try some of our team’s culinary masterpieces, consider the Zoo for your next private event, or save the date for ZOOFARI on Friday, June 20, 2025! Learn more at stlzoo.org.
BEGINNINGS BOLD AT SAINT LOUIS
Rendering of the McDonnell Event Center at WildCare Park, which will be available for events like weddings and corporate meetings
BEGINNINGS
LOUIS ZOO WILDCARE PARK
By Rebecca McMiller, Marketing Communications Manager
When driving by the Missouri-Mississippi
Confluence in north St. Louis County, it may be mind-boggling to think that the 425-acre Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park will open to the public in about two years. It will be an opportunity for guests — notably St. Louis County residents, who will receive free admission — to enjoy an African safari without the price of an overseas trip. It will also help conserve threatened ungulates — hoofed mammals such as Grevy’s zebra, addax, Somali wild ass, giraffe and white rhino — as well as birds and other vulnerable species.
It takes time to develop a safari and conservation park from scratch. Teams built proper fencing around the property and even rehabilitated 260 acres of grasslands to replace golf course turf with native prairie grasses. While its debut in 2027 seems like a long way away, life at WildCare Park is already standing on its legs (literally — animals are there, and calves are being born). Here is a glimpse of what WildCare Park looks like now and what adventures are on the way.
Grevy’s zebra
Photos by Ray Meibaum and Colin Dabbs
A HOOFED ANIMAL OASIS
As of this writing, WildCare Park is home to 14 addax, five banteng, six Grevy’s zebra, one Somali wild ass and eight scimitar-horned oryx, with many more species on the way. It’s expected to be home to more than 350 animals, most of whom are desert-based, “temperature-hardy” animals that will thrive in Missouri’s unpredictable climate. In 2025, WildCare Park is expected to receive 100 more animals, and by the end of 2026, the campus should have every animal for the safari pastures. Within these pastures, two different safari experiences will be available, and special vehicles will take guests for guided tours. The safaris will bring people right into the animals’ habitats.
“The goal of WildCare Park is to immerse guests in these safari experiences, allowing them to safely see animals up close and in their own environment,” said Martha Fischer, General Curator at WildCare Park. “Trained WildCare Park storytellers will share information about the animals and interpret animal behaviors so guests can enjoy the experience to its
fullest. At the end of their day, we want guests to leave with wonderful memories and stories to share with others.”
While the safari pastures will immerse guests among animals, pastures in the Kent Family Conservation and Animal Science Center at WildCare Park will be private, allowing teams to focus solely on animal breeding and bringing those species back from the brink of extinction. The animals at the Conservation and Animal Science Center are selected to produce the healthiest offspring to help bolster their populations. In the future, some animals bred may even be selected to be reintroduced to the wild.
WildCare Park’s primary focus is conserving endangered hoofed mammals; there won’t be predator species (like lions) alongside the ungulates.
“We have selected species that are most likely to thrive in a multi-species environment and to coexist in harmony with the native wildlife that are living at WildCare Park,” Fischer said.
From left to right: Somali wild ass, banteng and addax
GUEST EXPERIENCES AND TOURISM
Future guests unsure of where WildCare Park is located will have some help from a noticeable land marker ... a 150-foot, 11-story observation tower in the middle of the park, which will lift guests high up into the air for extraordinary views of animal pastures, the St. Louis cityscape and the Missouri-Mississippi Confluence. In addition to the observation tower and the aforementioned safaris, guests can enjoy ...
A nature play area
Portions of WildCare Park are designated for education programs, 1.5 miles of nature trails and playgrounds that will immerse children and adults into the surrounding landscape.
Giraffe feedings
This unique animal experience will have guests at head height to giraffes. Guests can purchase greens to offer to the giraffes.
A walking safari
Guests can walk on a path right through a habitat featuring species like the western grey kangaroo and wallaby with no barrier between them and the animals.
A zoo museum
This interactive, indoor museum will be a mix of a zoo and a science center and will use technology like virtual reality to show how animals experience the world.
As of this writing, these areas are yet to be built, though some of the old infrastructure on the property will be utilized, like a clubhouse with expansive views of the landscape.
“If you look inside the building now, it’s got some retro flair with orange chairs and felt letter boards, but soon it will be part of an event space with magnificent ballrooms and a large outdoor deck,” said Sabarras George, WildCare Park Director. “Imagine having a wedding or corporate event where you can step outside and see views of giraffes at sunset!”
From top to bottom: Renderings of a giraffe feeding experience and the observation tower
GUEST EXPERIENCES AND TOURISM Cont.
George also noted the size of WildCare Park, which is almost four times the size of the Zoo in Forest Park. “You won’t feel like you’re in St. Louis,” he said. “Guests can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and feel immersed in a world unlike their own.”
In addition to helping endangered animals thrive, WildCare Park is expected to help the regional economy prosper. WildCare Park is projected to produce over $660 million in regional economic impact within the next 10 years. In addition, WildCare Park is estimated to generate:
Average attendance of 421,900 guests each year after opening with approximately 65% of guests originating from outside St. Louis City and St. Louis County.
$97.3 million in governmental revenue, including $49.9 million in state and local tax revenues.
$184 million at regional businesses (spent by WildCare Park guests) outside of the safari park within the next 10 years.
An annual average of 384 jobs, which includes positions at WildCare Park and in the region.
“We want WildCare Park to be a job creator within and beyond its gates for the region,” George said. “As we grow, I look forward to seeing our region’s businesses do the same.” The full economic impact report is available at stlzoo.org/wildcarepark, and job opportunities will be added at stlzoo.org/employment
From top to bottom: Renderings of a nature play area and a safari experience
A TEAM OF TRAILBLAZERS
There are currently 34 employees at WildCare Park, which includes George and Fischer, a principal architect, a 24/7 security team, a facilities management team, a zoological manager, and six keepers. The small but mighty keeper team handles much more than feeding and cleaning; they are building the foundation for future animal care practices at WildCare Park.
“We’re starting everything from scratch,” said WildCare Park Keeper Sara Burran. “With new species coming into our care, we’re writing standard operating procedures for all our new routines, which help guide future staff. As the first keepers, we have opportunities to be creative and have input on our routines.”
Several of the WildCare Park keepers came from the Saint Louis Zoo for their new roles.
“The Zoo has decades of established routines and protocols for its areas and animals; I worked at the Zoo eight years before I came to WildCare Park and learned so much about providing extraordinary care,” said WildCare Park Keeper Jamie Lombardo. “While I can use some of that experience, the biggest difference at WildCare Park is all the space the animals live on. The safari pastures are up to 100 acres!”
Lombardo also noted that keepers will need to help animals acclimate as they move onto the property.
“With more than 30 animals now, and up to 350 adult animals expected by 2027, we’re handling many new arrivals,” she said. “This includes transferring them from other zoos, helping them acclimate to new barns and pastures, and introducing them to other animals and vehicles. During all these steps, we’re closely observing them to make sure we are moving at a comfortable pace for everyone.”
From new animals and experiences, projected economic boosts, and opportunities to experience the natural beauty of the landscape, WildCare Park is a beacon of optimism and excitement on the horizon.
“I hope people truly feel like they’re on an African safari,” Lombardo said. “I hope guests see a herd of addax running full speed across 100 acres or see a 14-foot giraffe or 6,000-pound white rhino walking alongside their safari vehicle. Overall, I hope people can experience something different every time they visit and feel connected to animals in ways they never have experienced before.”
Above left: WildCare Park is being constructed with native wildlife in mind. Game cameras are used to monitor and catalog Missouri native species that are living at WildCare Park; Above right: Keepers acclimate the addax herd to vehicles driving in their pasture. It’s important to prepare the animals for the guest safari experiences by 2027.
Our Curators’ Best Animal Moments
By the Saint Louis Zoo Curatorial Team
As the clock strikes 12 and the nostalgic “Auld Lang Syne” song plays in our heads, we reflect on the moments that made the year memorable. We asked our curators about highlights that helped shape their year and were significant for animal care at the Saint Louis Zoo. Here are just a few of the accomplishments of the year.
Photos by Ray Meibaum and JoEllen Toler
Asian elephant
Picks: of 2024
Herpetology and Aquatics
Curator: Justin Elden
Ecuadorian amphibians receive updated habitats to better simulate rainforests Reptiles, amphibians and fish are highly dependent on both micro and macro habitats, so we prioritize replicating these environments as accurately as possible. Recently, we made significant updates to the habitats of our Ecuadorian amphibians. Our work with these species, both in the field and within the Zoo, reinforces the importance of presenting guests with habitats that closely resemble the natural rainforests of Ecuador. We have undertaken substantial modifications to several frog habitats to ensure they are more biologically relevant and meet the animals’ total needs. As a result of these changes, we have successfully bred several species at the Zoo, including those that are critically endangered and challenging to reproduce in human care, including the Rio Pescado stubfoot toad (Atelopus balios) and Agua Rica leaf frog (Callimedusa ecuatoriana). We are proud to be the only institution outside of Ecuador to have successfully bred these species.
Splendid leaf frog (Cruziohyla calcarifer)
Common gallinules
Carnivores
Curator: Julie Hartell-DeNardo
Tiger triplets receive last “baby” vaccinations by participating in their own health care
Three critically endangered Amur tiger cubs — Sungari, Ussuri and Darya — were born at the Zoo on Nov. 13, 2023. Watching them experience their first milestones — from their first swim to playing with their first pumpkins — was incredibly rewarding. When the cubs were young and needed their first vaccines, they were held by keepers while shots were administered. As sweet as it is to hold baby animals, this isn’t possible when they start growing into adults. It’s also less stressful for the animals when they can participate in their own health care. Building relationships with and training the cubs to receive vaccinations and participate in procedures voluntarily is essential for their well-being. Our team started behavioral management and positive reinforcement training with the cubs as their growth and personalities allowed. And because our staff has a strong relationship with Reka, the cubs’ mother, she willingly let the triplets participate in training. Thanks to lots of teamwork, praise, patience and favorite foods, the cubs were given their last “baby” vaccinations via voluntary participation in training. We recorded our earliest voluntary weights and very first voluntary hand injections for tiger cubs.Thanks to the lifelong foundation of training we have provided, we have the highest hopes that they’ll live prosperous and healthy lives!
Two new California sea lions welcomed Our California sea lion family just got a little bigger! Two sea lion pups named Porter and Bristol arrived in November 2024. As they acclimate and grow, we will work on introducing them to our resident sea lions for social interactions as well as training for medical, husbandry and show behaviors. Be on the lookout for them this spring at the Sea Lion Show presented by Together Credit Union!
Amur tiger triplets: Sungari, Ussuri and Darya
Birds
Curator: Anne Tieber
Welcoming new birds
Our team prides itself on caring for an array of birds, and several new species were added to our Zoo, including the common gallinules,Temminck’s tragopan and Reeves’s pheasant. We also celebrated the birth of a female Palawan peacock-pheasant; she hatched on June 19, 2024, and was the first in many years.There are only about 41 individuals in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) population, and our own Marija Elden, Zoological
Invertebrates
Curator: Ed Spevak, Ph.D.
New South American sea nettle habitat at the Bayer Insectarium
In 2024, species of one of the oldest groups of invertebrates, South American sea nettles (a species of jellyfish), were presented for the first time to our guests.The earliest jellies appeared in the fossil record around 505 million years ago, at least 25 million years before insects. By exhibiting these jellies, our team works to implement our vision: “Together, we endeavor to instill an understanding and appreciation of invertebrates for the conservation of all life.” Additionally, we created a new photo opportunity for guests to capture their memories; many people are photographing themselves with these beautiful invertebrates “dancing” behind them!
Guests enjoy watching the South American sea nettles, new to the Zoo in 2024
South American sea nettles
Ungulates
Curator: Tim Thier
The many firsts of Asian elephant Jade’s pregnancy Jade, a 17-year-old Asian elephant, gave birth to a male Asian elephant calf, Jet, on Nov. 23, 2024.This was not only Jade’s first pregnancy, but also the first elephant baby at the Zoo to be successfully conceived via artificial insemination. Our Animal Care team and the Animal Health team (comprised of veterinarians, vet techs and more) worked closely with Jade to prepare for this exciting addition, from prenatal exercises to a healthy diet to support a 262-pound baby. Asian elephants are an endangered species — there are fewer than 50,000 left in the wild — so having a viable, genetically robust population in North America is very important.This calf begins the fourth-generation elephant family at the Zoo!
Xing, a Sichuan takin, receives first stem cell treatment for early onset arthritis
In the wild, the fittest of the fit animals survive and live into their golden years. In the care of zoos, animals don’t face life-threatening situations (like predators and lack of food), and they often live longer lives. Many animals at the Zoo are considered geriatric, and we’re dedicated to providing them with the best quality of life. An example of this was the care we provided to Xing, an 8-year-old male Sichuan takin who had early onset arthritis in his front legs. Our Animal Health team worked with a company that produces species-specific stem cells to produce a line of takin stem cells.The stem cell treatments have greatly improved Xing’s comfort level, and he has been much more active. This was the first time stem cells were used with a takin and is a great example of innovation and collaboration to improve the welfare of our animals.
Asian elephant Jade just 11 days before giving birth to calf Jet
Primates
Curator: Heidi Hellmuth
Forest’s firsts: The milestones of a Sumatran orangutan Forest is the youngest Sumatran orangutan at the Saint Louis Zoo, born on Dec. 22, 2023. Baby orangutans are adorable, of course, but due to their critically endangered status, there is greater significance to engaging guests with this species and sharing how they can help with the species’ conservation. Here’s a glimpse at how much Forest grew during 2024:
• He loves trying new foods with his 10 teeth. In typical toddler fashion, he must chew on everything. Some of his favorite foods are oatmeal, juice and berries.
• He’s great at figuring out enrichment and has already started copying the adults and using sticks as tools to fish.
• He is confident in his climbing skills and can climb on his own to the top of the outdoor habitat using vines and trees. Keepers hung firehose in behindthe-scenes areas to help him practice his arboreal (climbing) skills.
Caring for Constantine, the oldest Coquerel’s sifaka in human care
A resident at the Primate House is a record-breaker in terms of age — at 34 years old, male Coquerel’s sifaka Constantine is the oldest known of his species in human care ever. Just like when people get older, sometimes routines require some changes so day-to-day life can be more comfortable. In 2024, teams coordinated on modifying his care to give Constantine the highest quality of life. In his habitat, keepers pamper Constantine with soft resting spots; at the end of the day, he can be found sleeping in his large nest box, lined with cozy comforters. Constantine also needs to eat soft foods, so his team uses a steamer to cook his vegetables, starches and nuts. His primate chow is soaked in water, mixed with nut butters, and rolled into bite-size pieces.
Xing, a Sichuan takin, receives his stem cell treatment
Sumatran orangutan Forest practices his climbing skills
Start your new year with a conservation mindset
By Becca Harrison, #byetobags Coordinator
As a conservation organization, we have a responsibility to protect and preserve the habitats and ecosystems we — people and animals — depend on. As a new year starts, you can join us in protecting our planet by resolving to incorporate these sustainable practices into your daily life.
In Your Home
Eco-friendly product wrappings
Try personal care products packaged in paper, metal or glass instead of plastic. Reducing the need for single-use plastic containers leads to less plastic waste in landfills and waterways and reduces microplastics. You can also use dishwashing or laundry powder or detergent sheets instead of pods, which are wrapped in dissolvable plastic.
Reusable snack/sandwich bags
Reusable silicone bags are a great alternative to single-use bags for snacks. They come in a variety of sizes!
When You Celebrate
Recyclable cards
(with no add-on frills)
When sending out cards, look for cards that can be completely recycled. Glitter, foil and other add-ons to cards can contaminate the recycling stream, so they need to be removed before recycling. You can also send a digital card!
Alternative gift wrapping
Reuse gift bags, wrap gifts in fabric or choose a wrapping material that can be completely recycled.
The burden of balloon releases Popped balloons are a hazard for wild animals. If you’re looking to commemorate an event or person, consider releasing bubbles or flower petals, or planting a native tree.
At the Store
Say #byetobags
Bring your own reusable bags to the store! It’s estimated that the average adult who makes the switch to reusable bags saves 500 plastic bags from being used each year. Reducing the number of plastic bags used means less end up breaking down in our waterways and ocean!
Play our “green goals” bingo with the whole family (see page 33)!
Consider cloth gift wrappings that your loved one can reuse
Reusable produce bags are a great alternative to plastic bags
Sustainable shopping
When shopping, you can choose to buy products that are produced through planet-friendly methods.
• Choose recycled or Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)certified products. FSC-certified products are produced in a way that benefits forests and helps lessen habitat destruction.
• Choose products that contain sustainably harvested palm oil. Palm oil, when grown and harvested sustainably, is more environmentally friendly than other types of edible oil plants because less land needs to be cleared to get the same amount of product. You can use the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ PalmOil scan app to learn if your favorite products contain sustainable palm oil. The app also features companies that are member of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil, a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the palm oil industry to make it sustainable.
• Purchase seafood that is farmed or fished in ways that ensure long-term health of our ocean, rivers and lakes. Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch
program can help you make sustainable choices that prevent overfishing, habitat destruction and support ocean health.
• Look for bird-friendly products; there are several bird-friendly chocolate and coffee products available. These products are grown in a way that protects habitats for birds and wildlife around the world and supports farmers committed to sustainable farming.
In Your Yard
Plant native
Native plants are adapted for our environment, so they’ll need less watering and maintenance once they’re established. They also are an essential food source for pollinators.
Get the most from your compost
Leaf clippings, leaves and other organic matter can all go into compost. You can use this compost to help fertilize your garden. If you don’t have the space to have your own compost, see if there are compost drop-off programs in your area that you can participate in!
Avoid the chemicals
Reduce your use of chemical pesticides and herbicides to help native wildlife. There are non-chemical solutions to insect problems; for instance, geraniums are known for repelling certain pests.
On the Go
Reusable bottles and cutlery
Bringing your own bottle means fewer single-use bottles can end up as litter in our environment. Many places have water bottle filling stations, including our Zoo! You also can bring reusable cutlery or straws with you when dining out. Plastic cutlery and straws are found throughout our waterways and oceans, where they are hazardous to wildlife.
You can make a difference for wildlife and our planet by adopting one or more of these resolutions. You can also make a difference by sharing your resolution with your community and inviting them to join you. Together, our small changes can add up to a large impact!
Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute launches new polar bear conservation initiative
By Julie Hartell-DeNardo, Kevin Beckmann Curator of Carnivores, Center for Polar Bear Conservation Director; and Lisa Lidgus, Conservation Education Liaison, Center for Polar Bear Conservation Community Engagement Coordinator
Last fall, we announced an exciting initiative to support life in the Arctic: the Center for Polar Bear Conservation, which will join the ranks of 16 other Centers that are backed by the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute, the Saint Louis Zoo’s fieldwork branch. This Center reflects over 10 years of community partnerships, respect for threatened polar bears and dedication to climate change solutions. Let’s take a look at the beginning of our journey …
A look back: Building McDonnell Polar Bear
Point
When our Zoo took a new approach to climate change communication for the polar bear exhibit in 2013, we had no idea how far it would take us. With the help of the Alaska Nanuuq Commission (the federal polar bear co-management organization at the time), the Zoo co-developed the messaging for Polar Bear Point with our Alaska Native partners.
Communities in northwest Alaska have lived with polar bears since time immemorial. Their perspectives, stories and knowledge have shaped the way Zoo guests learn about polar bears and climate change. We developed long-term relationships with five Alaska Native villages: Wales, Gambell, Savoonga, Little Diomede and Point Lay. Together, we developed four overarching goals to best provide support:
Polar bear co-management
We actively support indigenous people to take an active role in the management of the polar bear population.
Climate change mitigation
Via messaging at the exhibit, we connect Zoo guests to our Alaska Native partners and inspire guests to take part in solutions to slow down the extreme effects of climate change on the Arctic.
Subsistence awareness
Alaska Native people sustainably harvest polar bears for food and economic security and have for thousands of years.
Opportunities for Alaska Native youth
We seek to provide a wide variety of STEM and conservation-based educational opportunities for Alaska Native youth.
In the past 10 years, we’ve visited our Alaska Native partner villages almost 20 times, facilitated and co-developed programs for community members, and fostered invaluable friendships.
A look back: The beginnings of polar bear conservation through the WildCare Institute The WildCare Institute is comprised of Centers and Programs, the latter being smaller-in-scope initiatives. Prior to the new Center for Polar
Bear Conservation, we had the Arctic Program, which includes our collaboration with our Alaska Native partner villages. We also had the Polar Bear Program, through which we supported Polar Bear International’s long-term maternal den studies, which are conducted by scientists in Svalbard, Norway. Experts document the denning behavior of polar bear mothers as well as the emergence of bear mothers and cubs from dens. Scientists aim to understand when the bears emerge from dens, how long the families remain at den sites before heading to sea ice to hunt seals, and how sensitive the bears are to disturbances.
Where we are now: The Center for Polar Bear Conservation
We’re excited to start this new chapter, backed by the strength of the WildCare Institute. The WildCare Institute focuses on three pillars for conservation success, which serve as a roadmap for our efforts:
Wildlife Management and Recovery
Polar bears in western Alaska are moving into villages more frequently and in higher numbers. This is likely due to climate change’s influence on the sea ice. Several Alaska Native villages are growing concerned about their ability to keep polar bears out of their communities. With support from our partners — the World Wildlife Fund, the Alaska Nanuut Co-Management Council (the current federal polar bear co-management organization) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service — we will support work that involves
local communities mitigating human-polar bear conflict.
Conservation Science
Tracking collars have been used for years to study polar bears, but data has been limited to adult females due to the shape of adult male necks and fit options for growing cubs.
To expand research for all polar bears, World Wildlife Fund has worked with technology companies to create an ear tag prototype for tracking. Our Center will collaborate with other Association of Zoos and Aquariums institutions on data collection via training polar bears to present their ears for measurements and fitting of prototypes. Additionally, our Center will continue supporting the aforementioned maternal den studies. The more we know about the most vulnerable time in a polar bear’s life, the better poised we are to protect them.
Community Partnerships
We will work to incorporate community science opportunities with our Alaska Native partners to integrate their polar bear knowledge with institutional science. Climate change is impacting how animals move and use resources, and by supporting those who are seeing these changes firsthand, the Center will foster opportunities for greater empowerment and understanding.
We’re looking forward to the impacts we can have for this vulnerable species. To learn more and to support us for the best conservation success, visit stlzoo.org/wildcare.
Zoo educators and docents teach guests about polar bears
Julie shares animal biofacts with Little Diomede students
Scientists with Polar Bears International set up den monitoring equipment in Svalbard, Norway
Lisa and students in Little Diomede have a video meeting with Zoo staff and Kali the polar bear
the happenings
Details are subject to change. Please visit stlzoo.org for the latest information.
Zoo Job Fairs
Dates: Jan. 29, Feb. 6 and Feb. 15, 2025
Times: 4-7 p.m. on Jan. 29 and Feb. 6; 9 a.m. – noon on Feb. 15
Zoo Location: The Living World stlzoo.org/jobs
Experience a fun, friendly and unique work environment with a job at the Zoo. Learn about our open positions!
Untamed Hearts
Valentine’s Dinner
Date: Feb. 13, 14 and 15, 2025
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Price: $75 per person
Age: Adults 21+
Zoo Location: The Living World stlzoo.org/untamedhearts
Treat your sweetie to an intimate evening at the Zoo, complete with a three-course meal. Limited reservations.
Trivia Gone Wild
Date: Friday, Feb. 28, 2025
Time: Doors open at 6 p.m. and trivia begins at 7 p.m.
Price: See table options at stlzoo.org
Age: Adults 21+
Zoo Location: The Living World and Lakeside Cafe stlzoo.org/triviagonewild
Recruit some friends and get ready to expand your craniums at our Zoo’s trivia night! Trivia will cover a wide range of topics.
California sea lion
happenings
Animals Aglow presented by Wells Fargo
Dates: Wednesdays-Sundays, March 12 – May 11, 2025; Sensory-Friendly Nights: March 23 and April 9
Animals Aglow is back and with new lanterns to see! Walk around the Zoo at twilight amidst the luminous glow of towering wildlife lanterns. Plus, enjoy specialty menus featuring Asian cuisine, entertainment and more. Sponsored by Wells Fargo, Mid America Chevy Dealers and Washington University in St. Louis.
Sea Lion Show Spring Training presented by Together Credit Union
Dates: March 15-30, 2025
Showtimes: 1 and 3 p.m.
Price: $2 for all Zoo guests; Free for children 0-23 months
Zoo Location: Judy and Jerry Kent Family Sea Lion Sound stlzoo.org
The sea lions are back and reporting for training! Care teams are working with the intelligent pinnipeds on their athletic behaviors, including high dives and jumps.
Jan. 20: Martin Luther King Jr. Day 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Feb. 17: Presidents Day 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Please note that the South Entrance of the Zoo on Wells Drive will be closed on select dates from January through March. Learn more at stlzoo.org.
Gentoo penguin
An evening of appreciation: The inaugural Marlin Perkins Society Soiree
By Mackenzie Isringhausen, Manager, Marlin Perkins Society
On Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024, the Saint Louis Zoo hosted 530 of our closest friends to celebrate the inaugural Marlin Perkins Society Soiree. Members’ invaluable feedback helped us reimagine this event, which was formerly hosted at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis.
On the warm autumn day of the event, as attendees entered through The Living World, they had the opportunity to see fly-through videos with sneak peek renderings of both the Henry A. Jubel Foundation Destination Discovery, set to open in 2026, and Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park, set to open in 2027. Society members learned how our vision for these experiences will come to life.
Guests then made their way around the Zoo, hearing from our passionate keepers at Centene Grizzly Ridge,
Penguin & Puffin Coast, and Donn and Marilyn Lipton Fragile Forest. In addition, our docents shared their vast knowledge and animal artifacts with attendees at McDonnell Polar Bear Point, the red panda habitat, and Judy and Jerry Kent Family Sea Lion Sound. The evening’s weather was perfect for a ride on the Emerson Zooline Railroad and a stroll through the Holekamp Aqua Tunnel to enjoy its pinniped inhabitants.
The evening also featured upscale hors d’oeuvres from the Zoo’s catering team, such as cheese and charcuterie, jumbo shrimp, an assortment of authentic spiced curry dishes such as Chaing Mai pork curry and chana aloo curry, and a braai station with offerings of tri-tip and grilled lion’s mane mushrooms.
Michael Macek, Director of the Saint Louis Zoo, addressed the crowd
with words of heartfelt gratitude, sharing that members have generously contributed $43 million since the Society began in 1991. He noted that over the past two years, the Zoo has been on a journey of innovation; we are trying new things and adopting new ideas for the betterment of our organization, which includes a fresh take on our annual Marlin Perkins Society event.
Learning about animals, engaging with experts, mingling with fellow Zoo supporters, and — most importantly — sharing our sincerest appreciation to our 1,300 members is what the Soiree is all about. We’re excited to make this an annual event and bring it back to the Zoo in 2025!
Want to become a Marlin Perkins Society member? Learn more about it at stlzoo.org/mps
Soiree guests enjoyed animal encounters and keeper chats, train rides, upscale hors d’oeuvres, and more
A family’s commitment to nutrition
By Jeffrey Huntington, Director of Development
Bill and Laura Orthwein and family have a strong and enduring connection to the Saint Louis Zoo, including a heartfelt interest in our robust nutrition program. Collectively, the family has made a lasting commitment to the nutritional well-being of the animals in our care. Most recently, the William R. Orthwein, Jr. and the Laura Rand Orthwein Foundation provided a generous $1.5 million grant to aid in the construction of two Nutrition Hubs at Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park. The property is expected to be home to 350 animals by 2027.
Each Nutrition Hub will be 2,460 square feet, with one servicing both the Savanna Safari and Kent Family Conservation and Animal Science Center conservation pastures, and the other servicing the 63-acre Woodland Safari.
Each hub will offer:
• Expansive space for storing large quantities of stacked bales of hay
• An air-conditioned room with three bulk-feed pellet silos
• Drive-through access to allow for efficient, large-scale hay delivery
“We were motivated to support this important project because it connects so well to the other projects we have funded in the past at the Zoo,” said Nettie Orthwein Dodge, President of the Orthwein Foundation.
“As someone who has been around animals throughout my life, I personally can appreciate the proper nutrition the Zoo and its staff provide for the animals daily.”
In 2004, the Foundation provided a generous leadership gift recognized with the William R. Orthwein, Jr. and Laura Rand Orthwein Animal Nutrition Center. This 10,000-square-foot facility is not only a critical part of the Zoo’s
commitment to animal care but also is a testament to what is possible through the power of philanthropy.
In 2009, the Foundation gave another grant to name and endow the William R. Orthwein, Jr. Family Director of Nutrition Services. In early 2024, the Zoo promoted Scott Runnels from Zoological Manager of Animal Nutrition to Director of Nutrition Services. Scott leads an expert team who coordinate the diverse dietary needs of each unique animal.
“I’m thrilled and honored to hold this prestigious title and to advance the nutritional needs and priorities of the animals in our care,” Runnels said. “The Orthwein family has created a wonderful and timeless legacy at our Zoo.”
The Saint Louis Zoo is deeply grateful to the Orthwein family and the Orthwein Foundation for their steadfast commitment to animal nutrition at the Zoo and the milestones their support has allowed us to achieve.
Left to right: Laura Durham Hartmann, Scott Runnels, Nettie Orthwein Dodge and Elisabeth Durham Bacon
The Orthwein’s gift will help feed the animals at WildCare Park, like these grazing addax
By Hannah G. Stater, Partnership Marketing Coordinator
Join us for the Saint Louis Zoo’s biggest fundraiser of the year!
Tickets for ZOOFARI are on sale now; it’s a great gift for loved ones 21 and up!
• Enjoy dinner-by-the-bite samples from your favorite local restaurants.
• Sip refreshing drinks at open bars.
• Check out interactive special activities.
• Bid on unique Zoo experiences.
• Dance the night away with a national cover band on the mainstage.
With a spotlight on the Zoo’s dedication to wildlife conservation around the globe, this is a party with a purpose that you won’t want to miss!
VIP tickets and group sponsorship packages are available now. For more information, please contact Liz Hickox, Corporate Partnership Manager, at (314) 646-4867 or ehickox@stlzoo.org.
Left: ZOOFARI guests dress to impress in summer cocktail attire and party with a purpose
Calling all early birds for Summer Camp Registration!
By Jaclyn C. Johnson, Assistant Director, Conservation Education
Winter is a special time of year. We dress in hats, coats and mittens, sip hot cocoa by the fireplace and begin thinking about what the new year will bring. Winter is also the time parents start thinking about upcoming summer camp opportunities. If you ever heard the expression “the early bird gets the worm,” well, the Saint Louis Zoo is rolling out summer camp registration early!
New for 2025, Zoo online camp registration opens in February. Zoo members receive priority online registration starting on Feb 12. In addition to early registration, Zoo members get discounted pricing and may register immediate family members residing in the same household, as well as grandchildren (if you’re at the Family/Grandparent membership level or above). If you would like to become a member or need to renew your membership, please visit stlzoo.org/membership for details.
From the ever-popular Camp Joey and Camp KangaZoo to Teen Camp and Specialty Camps, the Zoo has a summer camp program to meet a variety of animal and conservation interests.
• Camp Joey is a five-day program for children entering first grade.
• Camp KangaZoo is a four-day program that ends with an evening experience for students entering second through sixth grades.
• Teen Camp, for students entering seventh through ninth grades, is four days and includes a unique overnight experience.
• Specialty Camps run four days and provide an in-depth look at specific animal topics for students in third through 12th grades.
• Mini-week camp sessions in observance of summer holidays, as well as camp after-care options, are also available.
• We also offer day and evening adult and family programs, and scout and group overnights.
Program descriptions, pricing and registration details will be available on stlzoo.org. Once again, we will utilize queueing software to help manage registration wait times and increase the number of families served. Health and medical information will be collected separately to help streamline the registration process.
Whether you or your child have
American flamingo
Camp KangaZoo and Camp Joey participants enjoy animal encounters
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
Aug. 1 – Oct. 31, 2024
Leah Amir Msc, MHA
Lindsey Benham
Susan Colegrove
Phillip & Carolyn Desloge
Ann & John Dolan
Cara & Greg Holdener
Jessi & Ryan James
Lohr Distributing Company
Drs. Michael & Cheryl Mauney
Joan & Raymond Reynolds
Jahn D. Rohrer
Daniel & Amanda Rudie
Dennis Sedlak & Georgine O’Donnell
Tegner Stokes
Suk Hee Todd
Sichuan takin
Current Marlin Perkins
Society Members Who Have Increased Support
Aug. 1 – Oct. 31, 2024
Kevin & Debra Bastien
Stephen G. Bell (10)
Marghuretta Bland & Chris O’Connor
Tim & Beth Bland
Dr. Bill & Cindy Boever (15)
Susan E. Burns
Sam & Sara Butler
Paul Cambridge & Dr. Amanda Trudell (10)
Bob & Connie Carr
Clifton Consulting, LLC
Joann DeVere
Logan W. Finerty
Fischer & Frichtel
Custom Homes, LLC
Drew & Denise Franz (15)
Cheryl & Terry Gilchrist
Patricia & Timothy Goldsbury
Mr. & Mrs. H. William Hinderer, III
Ron & Maribeth Hollon
Edward & Margaret Imo (10)
Sean, Kim & Josie James
S. Janoski & Family
Marjorie E. Johnson
Deborah Kettler Engelke
Richard Kutta & Nancy Meyer
Mrs. Peggy J. Mangiaforte
Ms. Deborah K. Martens (10)
Sally & John McCarthy
Tom & Carrie McCarthy and Family
Daniel & Megan Millman
Aaron Molitor
Charles & Jean Naslund
Mr. & Mrs. Donald L. Ross (20)
Dr. Karen E. Ruecker & Dr. Adam Eaton
Robert E. Semon
Dudley Teel & Lisa Smith-Teel
Steve & Kris Sneeringer
Mark & Jennifer Stirnemann
Thomas & Betty Tyler
The von Gontard
Family Foundation (15)
Kathy Weber
(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).
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 Aug. 1 – Oct. 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
Kevin Beckmann Charitable Trust
$4,999,999 – $1,000,000
Anonymous
Derick & Sally Driemeyer and Family
William Siedhoff
Major Gifts
$749,999 – $500,000
Finerty Family Foundation
Estate of Virginia M. Herrmann
$499,999 – $250,000
Carol & Peter Benoist Family
Estate of Ann Luedinghaus Case
Kling Family Foundation
Lisa Mechele
$249,999 – $100,000
Estate of Barbara Bottini
Edward K. Love Conservation Foundation
Special Gifts
$99,999 – $50,000
Boeing Company
Dr. & Mrs. Edmond Cabbabe
Estate of Carolyn R. Duncan
Margaret & Gordon Finley
Spire
$49,999 – $25,000
Anonymous (2)
Pamela Coffin
Carolyn & Phillip Desloge
Ranken Jordan Pediatric Rehab
Velma A. Neiman Charitable Foundation
Dr. Steven & Elizabeth Nichols
Dr. & Mrs. Robert R. Schlueter
Ginny Smith, Kent Smith & Debbie Ferrari
Dr. & Mrs. James C. Speiser
$24,999 – $10,000
Ms. Betty Beckmann
Jim & Lionelle Elsesser
Bob & Kathy Federico
Edward Chase Garvey Memorial Foundation
Graybar Electric
The Koller Family
Estate of Anna Ludwig
Estate of Barbara J. Macke
Eric P. and Evelyn E. Newman Foundation
Roberta S. Poor
Margaret & Christopher Schneithorst
Society for Information Management
Robert J. Trulaske, Jr. Family Foundation
$9,999 – $5,000
Stephen Brauer, Jr.
Mr. & Mrs. Robert G. Brinkmann
Leo R. Buder Foundation Trust
Ms. Pamela J. Dearing
Susan & Frank Dellaquila
Mrs. Kay Drey
Edison Family Foundation
Emil & Elizabeth Elsaesser
First Bank, Inc.
Amrit and Amy Gill Family Trust
Tony Holdener
Ms. Martha R. Kratzer
Estate of Melva Long
Mr. & Mrs. Michael D. Mulligan
The Paradissis Family
Jason & Abigail Sapp
In Memory of Anthony Smalley: Fred & Tony Ann Smalley
Mr. & Mrs. Grenville G. Sutcliffe
Mr. & Mrs. James E. Williams, Jr.
$4,999 – $1,000
Anonymous
Mrs. Francis R. Bolin
Kaye Campbell-Hinson & Phil Hinson
Diane & Joe Carenza
Barb Cecrle
Dennis & Joan Costello
Pamela K. Dauphin
Dot Foods, Inc.
Roger & Earleen Duncan
Alexis M. & Lawrence P. Fahle III
Jackie Full
Walt & Nancy Galvin
Mrs. Marguerite P. Garrick
Mrs. Carol K. Gravens
Ms. Judith Griffin
Marie Guariglia
Gary A. Hansen & Linda D. Hansen
Gary & Debra Haynes
Mr. & Mrs. Ted Hellmuth
Mrs. Ronnie P. Hostmeyer
David Porter & Carol Imo
Carl Maddox
The McAllister Family Foundation
H. Smith & Janet McGehee
Anthony McLellan
Mr. & Mrs. Ken Nettleton
Bhavik & Priyal Patel
Drs. Frances & Fred Pestello
Michael S. & Julie B. Pfister
Estate of Viola J. Reynolds
Deborah Salles
Dan & Lisa Sullivan
William Sveen
Mr. & Mrs. Andrew C. Taylor
Mr. & Mrs. Gerald E. Wiley
$999 – $250
Anonymous
William & Nancy Bourgeois
Susan Colegrove
Michael Deem & Elizabeth Ickes
Mr. William D. Ehrlich
Mr. David R. Ganz
Ronald & Ellen Gross
James Hornsby & William Beal
Bud King
Cindy J. Littlefield
Mike & Marianne Murphy
Mr. & Mrs. John D. O’Hara
Drs. Steve & Susan Parsons
Sonia Patel
Alec Stais
Stifel Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated
Mr. & Mrs. Steven L. Vetter
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 Aug. 1 – Oct. 31, 2024, to honor or memorialize events and loved ones include:
In Memory Of
Dorothy L. Arnold
Phyllis & Terry Diel
Benjamin A. Borowsky
Mr. Jeffrey L. Huntington
James K. Bowling
Steve L. Crimmons
Randy & Cindy Droy
Mrs. Ruth K. Ellis
Ruth Conlin
Victor & Jennifer Conlin
Susan H. Corley
Darlene Eyster & Jeffrey Dreyer
John & Evelyn Costello
Dennis & Joan Costello
Edward J. Costigan
Mr. Theodore M. Armstrong
David & Sara Bailey
Steven T. Carr & Valerie Carr
Barb Cecrle
Richard N. Christiansen
Pam Dauphin
Sharon D. & William Decker
Emil & Elizabeth Elsaesser
Mr. & Mrs. Gerald M. Everding
Jodi Everding
Mildred F. Fabick, Jr.
Robert & Susan Karn
Bud King
Dr. & Mrs. Michael J. Kraujalis
Mr. Carl C. Lang
Mr. & Mrs. David Lanson
Cindy J. Littlefield
Kathryn & John MacDonald
Mr. & Mrs. John M. McCarthy
Anthony McLellan
Ms. Linda R. Reifschneider
Mr. John S. Ross
Randye & Paul Scotti
Stifel Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated
Mr. & Mrs. Andrew C. Taylor
Matt & Ann Wandishin
Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Wayne
Bertram B. Culver
Employees of Bank of America
Mr. & Mrs. Lucien R. Fouke, Jr.
Mr. & Mrs. James S. McDonnell III
Mr. & Mrs. Richard T. Quick
Mr. John K. Wallace Jr. & Mrs. Ellen Wallace
Harry & Anne Weber
Lucy A. Dolan
Dr. & Mrs. Sherman Silber
Ila Jill Dugan
Mr. Mark A. Savel
Arthur J. Duraski
Diane & Rod Patershuk
Lori A. Sullivan & G. Todd Rogan
Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Von Rohr
Daniel M. Goggins
Robert Hawkins
Dixie L. Greer
Kendra Follett
Alec Stais
Ken Guldalian
Linda Cox
Jo Ann Hahn
Mrs. Connie J. Hutten
John Hollenbeck
Mr. & Mrs. Ernest Schluter
Joan M. Huelsing
Kimberly Huelsing
Susan C. Jackson
Joseph Jackson
Diana J. Krueger
Jill & Glen Borage
John & Margaret Cosgrove
Little Joe
Jana C. Maniace
Patrick T. Maddock
Maureen Wahhab
Nora L. Meyer
Elizabeth & James Hillestad
Patricia Montabon
Ms. Erica E. Emily
Barb Keene
Jacqueline A. McIlhagga
Phil Needleman
Nina Needleman
David E. Perkins
Mr. Jeffrey L. Huntington
Dwight Scott
Dr. & Mrs. Sherman Silber
Phyllis A. Scott
Caseyville Fire Association
Susan & Rick Penny
Melvin & Patricia Scharf
Thomas R. Simpkin
Ms. Sandra Gordon
Anthony Smalley
Fred & Toni Ann Smalley
Rivie Soll
Gary A. Hansen & Linda D. Hansen
Eve B. Spencer
Laura M. Krutewicz
Margaret McRoberts
Sonia Patel
Karen Strobach
Mr. Jeffrey L. Huntington
Linda M. Szus
Linda K. Hunot
Caren & Bernard Zinn
Bob Tegman
Loren & Sharon Ditch
In Honor Of
Dr. Jeffrey P. Bonner
Mr. William D. Ehrlich
Mrs. Janis G. Goldstein
Steve & Julie Mathes
Robert & Betsy Wegusen
Jane Weiss
Jim & Pat Greenblatt
Laura Blood
Mr. Robert R. Hermann, Jr.
Mr. & Mrs. John D. O’Hara
Nancy Persons
Patti Simpson
Mrs. Judy & Todd Taylor
Lori Gavril
White ibis
GOALS BINGO
See how eco-friendly you can be in 2025!
Here are 16 great ways you can change your daily routines to help wildlife and our planet.
Check them off as you complete each task in the new year, and see how fast you can get four in a row!
Turn off outside lights during bird migrations in the spring and fall.
Plant native plants to help local pollinators and wildlife.
Make art from recycled materials.
Bring reusable silverware and straws to restaurants.
Pack a trash-free lunch using reusable containers.
Buy products containing sustainable palm oil.
Volunteer at a local stream clean or litter pickup event.
Send cards that can be recycled for celebrations.
Take a shorter shower.
Walk or ride a bike to your favorite spots when possible.
Use reusable bags at the store.
Put a rain barrel in your yard.
Use reusable water bottles.
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, 2025
Photo by Ray Meibaum
Banteng on the range: Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park is home to several critically endangered species, including banteng, a type of wild cattle from Southeast Asia. Males have black coats and females have chestnut coats.
