Milwaukee County Zoo 2018 Annual Report

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VISION

The Milwaukee County Zoo will be a zoo of renown with a reputation as a leader in animal management, conservation, research and education within a wholesome recreational environment enjoying the admiration of the citizens of Milwaukee County as well as all zoo guests and other zoos of the world .

MISSION STATEMENT

The Milwaukee County Zoo will inspire public understanding, support and participation in global conservation of animal species and their environment by creating a unifying bond between our visitors and the living earth and provide an environment for personal renewal and enjoyment for our guests by: • Contributing to worldwide animal management, conservation and research efforts; • Fostering sound physical, psychological and social development for the animal groups in our care; • Sharing our knowledge with the intent to reinforce the human-animal-earth bond; • Improving the quality of our professional development, administration and operating environment; • Striving for the financial self-sufficiency of the organization; • Continuing the public-private partnership with the Zoological Society of Milwaukee .

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Address from the County Executive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Letter from the Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 2018 Highlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Animal Management & Health Division . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Animal Health & Nutrition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Conservation, Research & Propagation Programs . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Zoo Staff Conservation & Research Projects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Additional Conservation Efforts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cooperative Animal Management Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Administration, Finance & Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Operating Expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Zoological Society of Milwaukee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

County Executive & Board of Supervisors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Amur Tiger ON THE COVER: Red Panda

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DEAR FRIENDS,

The Zoo had an exciting year, with current master plan projects completed, new births and a favorite exhibit welcomed back for a return engagement .

The new West Entrance opened to visitors in May, offering an expansive parking area, new concessions and merchandising offerings and Otter Passage, a new outdoor exhibit featuring North American river otters .

Work steadily continued on Adventure Africa Phase I: Elephant Exhibit which features an expanded home for African elephants and two mixed species habitats . The exhibit opens in May 2019 .

The Zoo also welcomed reticulated giraffe, Maya, to the collection .

The birth marked the second calf for mother, Marlee; father is resident male, Bahatika . This significant birth coincided with the start of the busy season, yet another reason visitors made the Zoo part of their summer plans .

The Zoo was granted accreditation this year by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Independent Accreditation Commission .

This thorough review is conducted every five years to ensure the facility is meeting ever-rising standards in categories like animal care and welfare, veterinary programs, conservation, education and safety .

Giraffe

I thank Zoo Director Chuck Wikenhauser and the Zoo staff for their continued dedication and hard work . With new projects already completed, and several more on the horizon, the Zoo keeps pace with quality animal exhibits and amenities at other zoos in the Midwest and beyond .

Milwaukee County Zoo - Major Milestones

Chris Abele Milwaukee County Executive

1892

MCZ started as miniature mammal and bird display in Washington Park 1

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LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR The new West Entrance opened in May, to rave reviews both for new amenities like merchandise and concessions areas, but also for the North American river otters displayed in their new outdoor home! These playful animals drew crowds throughout summer, splashing in their pool, and in winter, slipping and sliding in the snow.

Our largest renovation since 1961, Adventure Africa Phase I: Elephant Exhibit, is 95 percent complete and scheduled to open in May 2019. Featuring an indoor Elephant Care Center and expanded outdoor habitat for our African elephants, it’s complemented by two mixed species exhibits for African hoofstock.

Animal births included a “first” for our Zoo: a female red panda. Dr. Lily (named for one of the Zoo’s veterinary residents) was born in June and proved to be a fan favorite! With an estimated mortality rate of 86 percent (for births in human care), the birth was hugely significant for the population.

Sadly, we lost two western lowland gorillas, male Cassius, and female Naku, to an intestinal infection. Their offspring, Zahra, born in 2017, was reared via human assistance for a period of time, until a more suitable home was found at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.

The always popular Dinosaurs! A Jurassic Journey (May 26-Sept. 3), sponsored

by Sendik’s Food Markets, was a success, attracting many families and exceeding revenue expectations.

The following staff retired after long-tenured MCZ careers: Exhibits Registrar, Linda Bachers, Zookeeper, Michael Hoffmann; and Senior Staff Veterinarian, Dr. Roberta Wallace. We thank them for their years of service, and wish them the best.

In November, we welcomed Gary Lunsford as Director of Animal Management and Health. Gary most recently served as the Director of Zoological Operations at the Assiniboine Park Zoo in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada where he managed animal care, veterinary services and conservation and research.

We thank the county executive, the county board and the Zoological Society and its partners for their ongoing support, and look forward to prosperous years ahead.

Please read on for additional highlights.

Charles Wikenhauser Director North American River Otter

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West Entrance Construction

Milwaukee County Zoo - Major Milestones

1910 3

The Zoological Society was founded, lending financial support to the Zoo

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Adventure Africa Construction

2018 HIGHLIGHTS • Master plan project finishing work was completed for Adventure Africa Phase I: Elephant Exhibit and additional mixed species exhibits, Impala Plains and African Forest; opening date: May 4, 2019. The most recent master plan was finalized in 2013; and serves as a guide for the next 20+ years, addressing animal exhibits, dining, merchandise and service and infrastructure improvements.

• Accreditation was granted to the Zoo by the AZA Accreditation Commission; undergoing a thorough review of animal care and welfare, veterinary programs, conservation education and safety. MCZ has been continuously accredited

by AZA since 1976. Less than 10 percent of animal exhibitors registered with USDA have achieved AZA-accreditation status.

• During this year’s Governor’s Conference on Tourism, the Zoo was the recipient of the 2018 Governor’s Tourism Stewardship Award for ongoing sustainability and conservation efforts; MCZ contributes 3 percent of the operating budget toward conservation and research efforts through field conservation, education, staff programs and green practices.

Milwaukee County Zoo - Major Milestones

1958

Moved to its present location

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2018 Special Exhibit Dinosaurs! A Jurassic Journey Sponsored by Sendik’s Food Markets

During the summer, guests were greeted with more than 20 life-size robotic dinosaurs rousting and rumbling in their prehistoric habitat.

In addition to favorites like the Tyrannosaurus rex, several new dinosaur additions sparked interest and smiles from our youngest visitors.

Presented May 26 through Sept. 3, the exhibit was $3 per person and displayed outside behind the Small Mammals building.

Milwaukee County Zoo - Major Milestones

1960s

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Completion of the Primate Building, Monkey Island and Polar and Brown Bear Exhibits

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ANIMAL MANAGEMENT & HEALTH DIVISION Animal Division Collections

Five Major Animal Care Areas: • Reptiles and Aquaria

On Dec. 31, 2018 the Milwaukee

On Zoo Grounds County Zoo animal collection

• Primates and Small Mammals

included:

• Birds and Family Farm • Large Mammals • Animal Health and Nutrition Mammals

Responsibilities:

Species: 74 Specimens: 323

• Management, health, husbandry, propagation and exhibition of the animal collection

Birds

Reptiles

Species: 84 Specimens: 304

Species: 75 Specimens: 78

Fish

Invertebrates*

• Design and operation of the associated facilities and exhibits • Support and participation in conservation and research programs at the Zoo and internationally

Amphibians

Species: 12 Specimens: 34

• Enhancement of the public’s knowledge and appreciation of animals

Species: 88 Specimens: 1,331

Species: 21 Specimens: 63

Total Species: 354 | Total Specimens: 2,133

*Count does not include honeybee colony because it is a seasonal colony

• Maintain records and permits • Manage the Zoo library

Out on Loan Mammals

Zookeepers devote many hours enriching the lives of the animals — giving them opportunities to both exercise their minds and exhibit natural behaviors.

Species: 10 Specimens: 27

The animal collection owned by the Zoo and on loan to other zoological institutions included:

Birds

Species: 1 Specimens: 2

Reptiles

Species: 6 Specimens: 7

Total Species: 17 | Total Specimens: 36

Eyelash Viper

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2018 HIGHLIGHTS

Bufflehead

REPTILES & AQUARIA

Aquatic and Reptile Center

Emerald tree monitors were added to the population in 2018, while a number of behind-the-scenes areas benefitted from major cleaning and overhauling work. Revamping of these areas will continue in the year ahead.

The Aquatic and Reptile Center continues to populate new saltwater reef aquariums in the off-exhibit areas.

BIRDS & FAMILY FARM Aviary

The Aviary successfully raised 10 species of birds, totaling 27 chicks.

This included nine black-necked stilt chicks, two critically endangered species, three near-threatened species and one vulnerable species.

We also welcomed six new species: bufflehead, Kenyan crested guineafowl, pied-imperial pigeon, silver-beaked tanager, Chinese hwamei, and puna teal.

As part of our commitment to becoming a greener organization, with the help of the Eagle Scouts, we added a nitrogen digesting platform to the upper Aviary pond that both removes and inhibits new nitrogen growth in this system.

In 2018, 10 species transferred to other institutions, totaling 29 birds; 30 new animals were acquired representing 17 species.

Green Tree Monitor 7

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Northwestern Mutual Family Farm

We were pleased to bring in four additional Nigerian dwarf goats, and welcome three new kids, to bolster the existing herd. We also acquired a new groundhog, Gordy.

We welcomed two Ayrshires and two red and white Holsteins to our working dairy farm, and also acquired a new Belted Galloway beef cow.

World Bird Sanctuary returned in the summer to present its freeflight Birds of Prey Show.

LARGE MAMMALS

The Large Mammal sections of the Zoo include: Big Cat Country, North American, Pachyderms/Giraffe, and African/South American Hoofstock/Camels.

Big Cat Country

In June, an exciting “Zoo first� occurred with the birth of a red panda. Dr. Lily, named for one of our veterinarian residents, was born to parents Dash and Dr. Erin Curry, and proved to be hugely popular with visitors!

Sadly, we said goodbye to snow leopard, Tomiris; Amur tiger, Strannik; and African lion Sanura. All animals were long-lived and will be greatly missed.

Red Panda

North American

We welcomed male harbor seal Milo in May. Born to parents Sidney and Ringo, Milo joined big brother, Triton, on exhibit.

The birth was the fourth offspring for the wild-born pair. At the end of the year, Triton transferred to his new home at Riverbanks Zoo, S.C.

The last member of our Dall sheep group died in January. We also lost black bear Dakota, at 28 years old, and moose Bella.

Harbor Seal

Trim 8.0 x 8.0 inch Waterbuck

Pachyderms/Giraffe

African & South American Hoofstock/Camels

As the new Elephant Exhibit construction progressed, elephants Ruth and Brittany moved to the completed Elephant Care Center in October. Both elephants acclimated well to their expansive new indoor area.

Camels Patrick and George, born in 2017, transferred to Rosamond Gifford Zoo in Syracuse, N.Y. at the beginning of the year.

Three female waterbuck arrived in the fall from San Diego Wild Animal Park, and African crowned cranes made their debut in the African Waterhole Exhibit. Greater kudu Hasani also joined residents in this same exhibit.

In May, female giraffe, Maya, was born to mother, Marlee, and father, Bahatika. The birth marked the second offspring for Marlee and fourth for Bahatika

Unfortunately, a kudu and two waterbuck passed away during the year.

We said goodbye to Malayan tapir, Maggie. At 30 years old, she could be considered one of the top 10 oldest known tapirs in a zoo environment.

Milwaukee County Zoo - Major Milestones

1970 s 9

Addition of the Children’s Zoo and Animal Hospital

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PRIMATES & SMALL MAMMALS

Apes of Africa, Primates of the World & Macaque Island

Finishing work was completed for the new outdoor Colobus Monkey Exhibit, part of the Zoological Society’s 2017 Annual Appeal. The colobus spent the fall exploring the new indoor renovations and will venture outdoors in the spring. The troop size also increased as a new female was added.

Sadly, two of our western lowland gorilla family succumbed to an intestinal infection leaving a 7-month-old infant, Zahra, an orphan.

Zookeepers provided 24-hour assisted care for several weeks until a suitable gorilla family was found. Zahra was successfully integrated into a stable gorilla family at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.

Milwaukee County Zoo - Major Milestones

1980 s

Completion of the Peck Welcome Center, Wolf Woods and underwater viewing in the Polar Bear and Sea Lion Exhibits Western Lowland Gorilla

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Armadillo

Small Mammals

The new Otter Passage Exhibit opened in the spring and our four new North American river otters became guest favorites. The enriching environment features deep and shallow pools, dig pits, water slides and a viewable den. The holding area has several rooms for the otters to bed down at night and a maternity den.

We welcomed the arrival of two male dwarf mongoose, a male Mohol galago and the birth of a female southern three banded armadillo.

Sadly, we said goodbye to several animals this year including a female potto and cotton top tamarin.

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Colobus Monkey

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ANIMAL HEALTH & NUTRITION Animal Health Center Responsibilities: Manages the medical care, preventive health and nutrition programs of the entire animal population.

The Animal Health Center (AHC) staff’s goal is to improve animals’ lives by keeping them healthy and active. The focus is preventive medicine to avoid illness and ensure healthy habitats and environments. This process includes good nutrition, vaccinations and routine testing to detect issues early when treatment is easiest and most effective.

The AHC houses many animals annually – some are kept in quarantine before introducing to the main population; others are patients undergoing treatment.

As a renowned zoological medicine training hospital, AHC programs include a 1-month externship for fourth-year veterinary students and a 3-year Zoological Medicine Residency, which trains veterinarians in the zoo and exotic animal medicine field.

Three clinical medicine residents rotate annually through training opportunities at MCZ, the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine and the International Crane Foundation in Baraboo, Wis.

Milwaukee County Zoo - Major Milestones

1990s

Renovation of the Aviary and Primates of the World, and completion of Apes of Africa 11 14

Trim 8.0 x 8.0 inch MCZ complies with regulations and permit requirements of international treaties, and national and state laws on animal conservation, management, care, health and safety.

Animal Commissary Responsibilities: Receives, evaluates and stores most of the animal food and supplies before daily delivery on request to multiple areas for animal diet preparation.

SUPPORT OPERATIONS Animal Records AZA-accredited zoos keep very detailed upto-date records for each animal, telling its life story from birth to death. The Zoo registrar manages the database, overseeing the sharing and use of the data.

Information observed daily by the animal care staff is recorded in an electronic database, the Zoological Inventory Management System (ZIMS), the largest global animal management network worldwide. In 2018, thousands of entries were added to the 10.6 million animals in the database, representing 22,000+ species in 800 zoos and aquariums in 80 countries, as well as some species monitored in release and relocation projects into the wild.

Gila Monster

Library & Archive The library staff includes one part-time professional librarian, who also is the part-time Zoological Society Information Specialist, managing the Society’s photo database and researching information for exhibit signage; Zoo Pride volunteers also assist.

The Zoo Library (books and academic/scientific periodicals) and Archive (preserved materials crucial to the history of our Zoo and U.S. zoos), is a research library providing information resources to Zoo staff, the Zoological Society staff, Zoo Pride volunteers and to the public.

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CONSERVATION, RESEARCH & PROPAGATION PROGRAMS Animal care professionals at MCZ contribute to a diverse portfolio of conservation, research and reproduction programs at local, national and international levels. Our collaborations with other conservationfocused organizations are of prime importance. They bring strength and stability to the programs, as well as to the conservation community as a whole.

Significant funding came from Zoo trust funds, the Zoological Society and from visitors who “Rounded-up for Conservation,” a Zoo cash register program.

Conservation & Research Program Collaborative Support The Zoo provides funding and/or staff support to selected conservation initiatives and research projects. Highlights for 2018 support include: Turtle Survival Alliance

Global

Trumpeter Swan SSP

North America

Bat Conservation International

Global

Guam Kingfisher SSP

North America

Polar Bears International

Pan-Arctic

The Trumpeter Swan Society

North America

International Elephant Foundation

Africa and Asia

Wisconsin

International Rhino Foundation

Africa and Asia

Bureau of Endangered Resources Herp Fund – WIDNR

Great Ape Survival Partnership

Africa and Asia

Migratory and Resident Avifauna Study

Zoo

Great Ape Heart Project

International

Milwaukee Ape Heart Project

Zoo

IUCN Tapir Specialist Group

Southeast Asia, Central & South America

Sloth Conservation Foundation

Central and South America

Great Ape Cardiovascular Disease Study

Zoo

Wild Camel Protection Foundation

Mongolia and China

Great Ape Ultrasound Studies

Zoo

Snow Leopard Trust

Nepal

Bonobo Cardiovascular Database

Zoo

AZA Tiger Conservation Campaign Amur Tiger Project

Russia

Red Panda Network

Nepal

Orangutan Outreach

Borneo and Sumatra

Bonobo and Congo Biodiversity Initiative

Democratic Republic of Congo

Lola Ya Bonobo - Bonobo sanctuary

Democratic Republic of Congo

Kibale Fuel Wood Project

Uganda

Berggorilla and Regenwald Direkthilfe Gorilla Project

Rwanda

Giraffe Conservation Foundation

Namibia

AAZV Wild Animal Health Fund

International Bongo Foundation

Kenya

AZA S.A.F.E.

Adopt an Ostrich Program/Sahara Conservation Fund

Niger

IUCN Species Survival Commission

Elephants for Africa

Botswana

Cheetah Conservation Botswana

Botswana

Mabula Ground-Hornbill Project

South Africa

Madagascar Fauna & Flora Group

Madagascar

Proyecto Tití

Colombia

Humboldt Penguin Conservation

Peru

Puerto Rican Crested Toad SSP

Puerto Rico

Project Golden Frog

Panama

Rock Iguana Conservation

Jamaica

Rock Iguana Conservation

Grand Cayman

Ocean Spirits

Caribbean

Florida Reef Tract Rescue Project

Florida

The Zoo also provides funding for collaborative conservation and research initiatives: Avian Scientific Advisory Group Penguin Taxon Advisory Group Great Apes Taxon Advisory Group International Species Inventory System AZA Reproductive Management Center

IUCN SSC Conservation Breeding Specialist Group

Black Rhinoceros 16

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ZOO STAFF CONSERVATION & RESEARCH PROJECTS Migratory & Resident Avifauna Study

Zoo staff participate in wildlife conservation and research projects locally, regionally and internationally. Many are supported by funding from the Zoological Society.

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Changes were made to the Zoo-based songbird banding study; a new banding location was identified and protocols were updated as the new study site became part of the Midwest Migration Network.

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Staff and volunteers continued monitoring the Zoo’s nest boxes.

Unfortunately, this year’s inclement spring weather affected early-arriving migrants and reduced nest success.

Rock Iguana Conservation Projects The Zoo and the Zoological Society have supported rock iguana conservation in the genus Cyclura since 1995. Support has increased with fieldwork studies of the Grand Cayman blue iguana and Jamaican iguana.

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Grand Cayman blue iguanas are one of the world’s most endangered lizard species, but, due to work by several zoos, including ours, researchers estimate the total global population has increased to about 1,000.

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At an estimated population of less than 200, the critically endangered Jamaican iguana, once thought extinct in the wild, is still in peril. Zoo personnel have been involved with Jamaican iguana conservation since 2002. Animals are captured for either headstarting or re-releasing; in 2018, there were increases in both numbers of hatchlings brought into the headstart facility and iguanas reintroduced to the wild. New predator control methods and artificial nest sites were added by staff; resulting in increased nesting activity.

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Wild Bird Collision Abatement •

Bird Banding

A zoo veterinary technician returned to Grand Cayman in 2018 to assist the Wildlife Conservation Society with blue iguana pre-release health screenings. She continued work on a scientific publication regarding endo- and ectoparasites found during the screenings.

Milwaukee County Zoo - Major Milestones

2003

Zoo staff and volunteers identify structures in the Zoo where bird strikes occur, and modify locations using a variety of treatments to reduce the number of mortalities. In 2018, modifications were made to a number of buildings.

Completion of Animal Health Center

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Giraffe Field Conservation •

Milwaukee Ape Heart Project

The Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF) works throughout Africa to protect giraffe in many ways, including field research, population monitoring, animal relocation and community education programs. In 2018, our Pachyderm Area Supervisor returned to Namibia to assist a GCF researcher with field conservation. She collected data on many aspects of the desert-dwelling Angolan giraffe population in northwest Namibia, including movement patterns, preferred food, reproductive success and herd composition. Researchers also collected DNA for analysis on relatedness and social patterns in these giraffe populations.

Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC), discovered in one of our bonobos, has also been identified in most great ape species, and is inheritable in humans. Collaborators at the Indiana University School of Medicine sequenced the DNA of that individual and an unrelated bonobo to search for deleterious gene variants possibly involved in cardiovascular disorders. The variants found were compared to the human genome. The resulting scientific publication was submitted to Nature Scientific Reports and was published in 2018.

In 2017, The International Zoo Yearbook, published by the Zoological Society of London, invited our veterinarian to submit a manuscript for its “Conservation of Great Apes”- themed 2018 volume. With the Director and Project Managers of the GAHP as co-authors, the chapter, “The Great Ape Heart Project,” was published in 2018.

Giraffes

Bonobo

Two scientific publications co-authored

by Milwaukee Ape Heart Project contributors were published in peerreviewed journals in 2018.

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World Giraffe Day

ADDITIONAL CONSERVATION EFFORTS American Association of Zookeepers/Milwaukee Chapter

Numerous Zoo staff, Zoological Society staff, Zoo Pride volunteers and other associates work outside their normal duties, to support conservation efforts worldwide. A few examples from 2018:

The mission of the American Association of Zookeepers (AAZK) is to advance excellence in the animal-keeping profession, foster effective communication beneficial to animal care, support deserving conservation projects and promote the preservation of our natural resources and animal life.

World Animal Days: Penguin, Giraffe & Elephant •

These events are planned in conjunction with animal care staff and focus on specific Zoo animals. Guests see how these animals are cared for and learn about their conservation needs.

Activities for guests generate funds for conservation projects.

In 2018, we presented wildlife conservation issues at Groundhog Day, Party for the Planet and Big Cat Conservation Day.

Mother’s Day/Orangutan Conservation •

Established in 1975, the Milwaukee AAZK Chapter (MAAZK) is made up of staff from both MCZ and the Racine Zoo. Officers and members volunteer to oversee fundraising events, and host the Zoo’s in-house lecture series.

An annual tradition at the Zoo is the Mother’s Day special event, featuring orangutan conservation through the Missing Orangutan Mothers (M.O.M.) event. An awareness and fundraising event, it focuses on the plight of wild orangutans through educational talks and activities. This year’s event supported Orangutan Outreach.

Events hosted by the MAAZK chapter in 2018 benefitted many organizations, including: • • •

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Ruaha Carnivore Project Giraffe Conservation Foundation Tree Kangaroo SSP

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SUSTAINABILITY & THE GREEN COMMITTEE Green Committee Mission: to identify, advance and promote policies and practices that minimize negative impact and maximize environmental benefits, through comprehensive input and collaboration from all Zoo areas.

Internally, the Zoo has recycling collections for cell phones, beverage containers, light bulbs, other plastics, wine corks, athletic shoes, plastic markers, motor oils, electronics, ink cartridges, clothing and more. We continue to upgrade electrical, natural gas, water and sewer infrastructure to conserve resources and use green practices in building construction and other projects.

2018 Highlights: •

MCZ’s on-grounds recycling partnership with Pepsi collected 47,200 pounds and 1,170,940 units of materials; since 2015, over 3.1 million total units have been recycled

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Expanded Zoo partnerships to compost herbivore waste; annually 1 million+ pounds of waste is sent to: Blue Ribbon Organics and the new site established as part of the Milwaukee County House of Corrections’ Zero-Waste Initiative

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Partnered with House of Corrections for two electronics recycling collections

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Welcomed new members from the Zoo, Zoological Society and in-house concessionaire, Service Systems Associates. Current activities were evaluated and future opportunities identified to increase efforts.

2018 Grants/Certifications/Awards: •

2018 Governor’s Tourism Stewardship Award

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Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Recycling Excellence Honorable Mention for 2017 herbivore waste diversion program

Milwaukee County Zoo - Major Milestones

2004

Completion of Karen Peck Katz Conservation Education Center

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OTHER RESEARCH & STUDIES

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Severe neurologic disease and chick mortality in crested screamers (Chauna torquata) infected with a novel Gyrovirus

The Zoo assists in many scientific studies and collaborative research projects by providing facilities, staff expertise, data and an environment conducive to animal studies. Proposals are reviewed to ensure the welfare of the animals is protected.

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Antemortem diagnosis and successful treatment of a complete molar pregnancy in a geriatric bonobo (Pan paniscus)

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Gastric dilation and enterotoxemia in ten captive felids

Studies that the Zoo conducted, collaborated with, participated in or that were published in 2018 included:

Animal staff also delivered more than 1,000 formal presentations and many informal presentations to the visiting public.

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Characterization of bonobo sperm using transmission electron microscopy (TEM)

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Fecal survey for newly discovered amdoparvovirus in red pandas

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A comparative analysis of hind gut microbiome in primates using DNA sequencing

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Species and sex genetic testing of two-toed sloths (Choloepus spp.) in the Species Survival Plan® (SSP) programs

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Interactive technology use with zoo-housed great apes

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Use of ACE-inhibitors in gorillas, examining a possible link to hepatotoxicity

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Developing genomic tools for North American river otter population management

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Trumpeter swan genotyping to determine population of origin

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Medical records review of black-footed cats

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Snow leopard population health and record review

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Giraffe demography projects: heights

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Cardiac disease in western lowland gorillas: Comparative assessment of B-type naturiuretic peptides from urine, capillary serum and venous serum samples

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Investigation of finger blood pressure measurements in

COOPERATIVE ANIMAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS Through SSP programs, the Zoo cooperates with all AZA members to enhance the well-being of at-risk animal populations from around the world.

The process is facilitated by teams of scientists and animal care professionals working together to implement breeding plans that support long-term genetic diversity of species in human care.

Often, collaborative programs have been developed with range countries to further support the enhancement of these populations in the wild.

The Zoo further supports the AZA community through membership, advisement and leadership of conservation, research, education and animal care initiatives such as Taxon Advisory Groups (TAG), Scientific Advisory Groups (SAG), and Conservation Action Partnerships (CAP). With the team expertise and resources to have a significant positive impact toward conservation of species, enhancement of professional animal care, and leadership within the conservation community, we continue to push forward with commitment, passion and enthusiasm.

Currently, MCZ is involved in 118 Species SSP programs and 46 Taxon Advisory Group programs.

bonobos as a tool for identifying and treating hypertension

Presentations/Publications Zoo staff authored peer-reviewed scientific articles published in 2018, including: •

The Great Ape Heart Project

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Genetic analysis in a bonobo (Pan paniscus) with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy

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Retrospective evaluation of sedation in 16 lizard species with dexmedetomidinemidazolam with or without ketamine

Milwaukee County Zoo - Major Milestones

2005 19

Completion of Florence Mila Borchert Big Cat Country

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PROFESSIONAL PROGRAM MANAGEMENT Zoo staff members hold management positions in national and international programs through AZA and other conservation entities. These management positions include: •

•

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Executive Committee or Board of Directors - International Rhino Keeper Association (IRKA), Great Ape Heart Project, Association of Zoo Veterinary Technicians (AZVT), Canada’s Accredited Zoos & Aquariums (CAZA) SSP Program Leadership - Humboldt Penguin SSP, Bonobo SSP, Canada Lynx SSP AZA Program Advisement - Bonobo SSP (Veterinary & Animal Care), Humboldt Penguin SSP (Veterinary), Penguin TAG (Veterinary)

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AZA Steering Committee Membership - Polar Bear SSP, Tree Kangaroo SSP, Bonobo SSP

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TAG Steering Committee Membership - Freshwater Fish TAG, Penguin TAG, Coraciiformes TAG, Bear TAG

American Association of Zookeepers (AAZK-National) - Behavioral Husbandry Committee, Grants Committee, Conservation Committee

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•

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Advisory Board Member - AZA Reproductive Management Center

Animal Welfare Committee - Liaison between National AAZK and AZA

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Studbook Management - Yellow-Backed Duiker, Tayra, Canada Lynx, Bonobo

Arctic Ambassadors - Polar Bears International

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Program Manager - American College of Zoological Medicine Residency Program

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Development Committee - American Association of Zoo Veterinarians

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In addition, members of the Zoo staff are officers of the Milwaukee Chapter of the AAZK.

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ADMINISTRATION, FINANCE & OPERATIONS CASH MANAGEMENT

The division oversees: • • • • • • • • • •

Zoo Administration Cash Management, Financial and Capital Project Planning Accounts Payable and Receivable General Office Services Information Technology Program and Audience Evaluation and Research Services Guest Experience Committees Zoo-wide Performance Measures/Goals Human Resources Operations (Visitor Services, Business Operations Administration and Protective Services)

• • • • • •

ACCOUNTING (ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND RECEIVABLE) • • • • • •

Zoo Administration provides the leadership for all Zoo functions and responsibilities. The following accomplishments were achieved under this leadership: The first phase of Adventure Africa reached 95 percent completion

•

The new West Entrance and Otter Passage Exhibit opened in May

•

The Zoo was accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums for the next five years; one of only four zoos accredited since 1976

Reconciles cash receipts to POS system Prepares bank deposits Prepares cash register starting banks and daily support of the cashiers for change and deposits of funds Processes contract ride revenues Monitors cashier discrepancies Tracks annual Holiday Giving Tree donations

Seagrass, the Zoo’s new cash management system, was implemented in 2018, including integration with new cash counting equipment.

ZOO ADMINISTRATION

•

Responsibilities:

Responsibilities:

Processes contracts, purchasing requisitions and receipts Monitors credit card system Reviews sales documentation Prepares invoices Tracks accounts receivable Enters financial transactions into the general ledger

Accounting staff worked effectively as a team throughout the year to implement systems and assist staff in all departments.

FINANCIAL & CAPITAL PROJECT PLANNING & CONTROL • • •

Responsibilities:

Manages the Zoo’s budget process Handles financial analysis & report preparation Represents the Zoo on countywide issues

Milwaukee County Zoo - Major Milestones

2012

This section coordinates the budget process and balances the budget.

21

Completion of the first planning phase of a new 20-year Zoo master plan; focusing on animal exhibits, visitor attractions and service facilities and operations

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INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT) • • • •

Responsibilities:

Manages Zoo POS equipment, wireless network Zoo desktop support Coordinates updates on POS terminals Facilitates IMSD projects

In 2018, IT coordinated with the Zoo’s POS vendor for development of an online School Field Trip registration system to be implemented in 2019.

The section worked with the Zoo’s POS vendor and the Zoological Society’s new POS vendor to integrate the systems for processing member admissions, gift shop discounts and ride coupons.

PROGRAM/AUDIENCE EVALUATION & RESEARCH SERVICES

Program/Audience Evaluation Specialist • • • • • •

Responsibilities:

Designs research, data collection, analysis and reporting for studies examining aspects of a Zoo visit Leads the Guest Experience Committee (GEC) Collects information from guests and staff necessary for Zoo initiatives Conducts other studies with internal personnel (Zoo, Society staff and volunteers) Serves as the point-of-contact for contracted audience research studies Shares findings internally and externally where appropriate; submits information to grantors/funders

In 2018, studies included: •

Participant observation for the Animal Connections Continuum program

•

Data compilation/analysis for educational programs, both on- and off-site

•

Milwaukee County Customer Service Survey

•

Data collection for the national study: Why Zoos and Aquariums Matter

Exit interviews were conducted to assess the Zoo’s performance on several customer service and guest experience metrics. On a scale of 1-5, the average rating for each metric was between 4-5 (very good/excellent), indicating continued high levels of satisfaction.

GUEST EXPERIENCE COMMITTEE (GEC)

Serving to improve the overall experience of the Zoo visit, this committee addresses topics such as: • • •

Customer service and training Interdepartmental communication Amenities and offered experiences

Coordinated by the Program/Audience Evaluation Specialist, the GEC consists of staff from each Zoo division, the Zoological Society and SSA. The group takes guest feedback and input from staff to identify potential barriers to a positive experience, and determines how to make improvements.

The STAR (Sharing Thanks And Rewards) program continued; 56 staff members were recognized 102 times for exceeding expectations in enhancing a guest’s visit.

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VISITOR SERVICES

HUMAN RESOURCES •

• • • • •

Responsibilities:

Provides guidance and direction to managers for employee relations, coaching, improving performance or conduct, and performance measures Interprets and educates managers on policies, county ordinances and civil service rules Researches and responds to employee concerns Provides guidance and leadership on the development of departmental procedures and policies Facilitates employee and management training Assists managers with workforce planning and recruitment

• •

• •

Collects admission and parking fees Operates the miniature train, carousel, zoomobile, stroller rentals, sky safari, and Mold-A-Rama machines

This section facilitates the entering of guests; in 2018, admitted 1.1+ million visitors.

2018 Highlights: • • •

2018 Highlights: •

Responsibilities:

Opened West End Entrance/Parking area Installed credit card processors on Mold-A-Rama machines Provided staff for all regular Zoo hour events and after-hour events in conjunction with Group Sales, Marketing and Communications, Zoological Society Education and event staff

Supported leadership and engaged county budget office to transition positions from seasonal to full-time to better meet operational needs Facilitated leadership in updating all departmental work rules In collaboration with the Payroll Division, developed Quick Reference Guides to enhance the use of automated time keeping system

DIVERSITY COMMITTEE Consists of three representatives from divisions to promote inclusion of all employees regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, handicap and other non-merit factors.

Offers outreach activities to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

OPERATIONS Operations includes gate admissions, parking, rides, contractual obligations of outside revenue share vendors, including new service models and establishes customer service branding policies and oversight of security programs

23

Mold-A-Rama

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Ooz Food Truck

Bear Garden

BUSINESS OPERATIONS ADMINISTRATION •

•

•

Responsibilities:

Manages the partnership with Service Systems Associates (SSA) for food service, in-house catering and retail operations Oversees the division’s revenue share vendors such as: penny press machines, zip line/ropes course, sky safari, Mold-A-Ramas, pony rides and face painting Manages the Zoo’s protective services team: gate access, security cameras and badge systems

2018 Highlights Business Operations Administration

Food Service & Catering • • •

Opened new OOZ Food Truck in a renovated 1978 Airstream food truck Renovated Dippin’ Dots into the Bear Garden serving 12 beer choices including local craft options Re-opened and renovated Lakeview Restaurant as Nourish 414 with new menu items, including traditional favorites as well as unique offerings

Retail • •

•

Developed a 2019-2024 beverage pouring rights agreement with • Pepsi Bottling group; Pepsi to provide $650,000 in support over five years

•

Managed a la Carte ticket sales internally rather than by an outside vendor as in previous years

Opened West Entrance Gift Shop with otter-themed souvenirs Facilitated visitor program to donate plush animals for Children’s Hospital patients Collected $58,000+ for the Round-Up for Conservation Program

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MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

The Marketing and Communications Division is responsible for promoting the Zoo by building effective and robust programs utilizing general marketing, advertising, promotions, public relations, media relations, social media, special events, special exhibits, corporate and private event sales and coordination, group tours and discount corporate ticket sales programs.

The division, comprised of 10 full-time employees and approximately 15 seasonal employees, attracts more than 1 million visitors annually by keeping the Milwaukee County Zoo and its many programs top of mind for families throughout Wisconsin and northern Illinois.

SPECIAL EVENTS •

Responsibilities:

Coordinates more than 20 special events throughout the year

Special events promote causes and conservation issues, and offers friends and families a festive atmosphere to enjoy spending time together.

2018 Highlights Behind the Scenes Weekend – March 10-11 •

GROUP SALES

Tours of Train Shop, Aquatic & Reptile Center and Greenhouses Attendance: 8,055

Contracts and manages all outside events with corporate, nonprofit and private groups to host unique events at the Zoo. Group Sales coordinates events for more than 14 rental facilities and six picnic areas throughout the Zoo. Areas include the Peck Welcome Center, Zoofari Center, Big Cat Country, Apes of Africa and many other animal buildings.

Family Farm Weekend– Sept.8-9 •

Farmer’s Market, Tractor-Pull and Milk-Chugging Contests Attendance: 12,885

Boo at the Zoo – Oct. 12-13 •

Haystack Maze, Carved and Illuminated Pumpkins, Halloween Entertainment Attendance: 10,818

This section also coordinates children’s birthday parties and motor coach bus visits, including docent-led walking tours and zoomobile tours.

The section executed advance ticket sales for the 2018 summer exhibit and continued to grow its consignment ticket program, and exceeded 2017 ticket sales.

Milwaukee County Zoo - Major Milestones

2014

Moved forward on plans for the new West Entrance and adjacent parking lots; location includes new outdoor Otter Exhibit

Boo at the Zoo 25

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SPECIAL PROGRAMS •

•

Responsibilities:

Negotiates and secures Oceans of Fun Seal & Sea Lion Show contract, oversees the temporary special exhibit and audiovisual services Works directly with the Zoological Society, serving as a liaison for all Zoological Society events taking place at the Zoo

2018 Highlights: •

• •

The Special Programs Section coordinated and supervised staff for Dinosarus! A Jurassic Journey, which generated more than $500,000 in revenue and welcomed 215,000+ visitors.

Served as a liaison to the Zoological Society, facilitating all of the Society’s events at the Zoo. Zoo operations were enhanced by the efforts of the Audiovisual Section, which include photos, videos and visual presentations in the areas of: Animal Division, Public Relations, Social Media, Group Sales and Special Events.

SOCIAL MEDIA •

Responsibilities:

Communicating and promoting the Zoo through online means using platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Following are the results of the year’s social media efforts:

Facebook

Followers: 107,207 Impressions: 47.5 million Engagement: 959,000

Twitter

Followers: 8,328 Impressions: 1 million

Instagram

Followers: 18,973 Impressions: 3.7 million Reach: 1.6 million

Posts shared: Internationally Weighing indoor penguins Tiger Kash with watermelon Nationally Hyena bubble bath (enrichment) Penguins in the snow Gorilla Sulaiman in the snow

Amur Tiger

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MEDIA RELATIONS •

Responsibilities:

Promotes special events and animal collection through traditional public relations efforts, writes news releases, brochures and flyers and internal newsletter, develops website content and responds to visitor online inquiries, pitches stories to media locally, regionally and nationally

In 2018, the Zoo received positive media coverage through a variety of mediums including broadcast, print, electronic and online means.

Subjects covered included animal births and acquisitions, special events, conservation projects and special exhibits.

A range of publications featured Zoo stories, such as the daily newspaper, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Milwaukee Magazine, and community newspapers like Wauwatosa Now and statewide radio programs. The Zoo was also regularly featured on the local weekday and weekend morning television programs, either on-site, or in-studio.

Milwaukee County Zoo - Major Milestones

2015 27

Began design for Adventure Africa Phase I: Elephant Exhibit

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GROUNDS & HORTICULTURE

This section continued to support the Animal Division, Special Events, Group Sales and the Zoological Society.

• • • • • • •

Responsibilities:

Transports animals Removes animal waste Assists in renovation and repair of animal exhibits Prepares private events Removes trash, litter and recyclable materials Plows and salts Recycles leaves and brush

2018 Highlights:

In addition to typical seasonal landscape maintenance, plantings and holiday/special event preparations, this section’s accomplishments included: • • • • • •

Renovated Elk Exhibit with landscaping, installing logs, planting grass and shrubs Cleaned, prepared and maintained outdoor yard for summer exhibit Cleaned, landscaped and maintained new West Entrance Completed plumbing work for Bonobo Exhibit and Gorilla Holding Modified and disinfected Gorilla Exhibit Helped to prepared areas for AZA accreditation inspection

Spring, summer and fall horticulture: 350 container and baskets,60 flowerbeds, 38,000 annuals.

Milwaukee County Zoo - Major Milestones

2017

Began site demolition and construction for Adventure Africa Phase I: Elephant Exhibit

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CUSTODIAL

FORESTRY SECTION SUPPORT: • • • •

The Custodial Section is responsible for keeping buildings clean for visitors and staff, and exit surveys continue to show a high level of satisfaction with facility cleanliness. This section is integral to the success of our Group Sales events, and to the overall impression of the Zoo.

Clears storm damaged trees Prunes trees; provides propping for animal exhibits Operates heavy equipment Restores train bridges with wood milled from Zoo trees

2018 Highlights: • •

MAINTENANCE & TRADES

Continued the urban wood program Removed weak and dead ash trees damaged by the ash borer

A considerable amount of infrastructure work is completed each year by the Maintenance and Trades Division.

Responsibilities:

• Maintains the buildings, grounds, exhibits and public areas • Maintains the electrical, plumbing and HVAC systems

SAFETY & TRAINING

More than 500 people attended the week-long Safety Fair, with classes offered and vendors presenting services.

Zoo Train Propping in Red Panda Exhibit

29

Trim 8.0 x 8.0 inch North American River Otter Exhibit

ZOO OPERATING EXPENSES (FINANCIALS) Zoological Department (Unaudited) REVENUES

2018 Adjusted Budget

2018 Actual Year-to-Date

Variance ( ) = Deficit

Total Admissions

$6,098,858

$5,015,335

$(1,083,523)

$1,448,086

$1,037,295

$(410,791)

Net Operational Admissions

$4,650,772

$3,978,040

$(672,732)

Parking

($116,977)

Less Group Sales

$1,460,000

$1,343,023

Special Exhibit Admissions

$475,000

$487,021

$12,021

Sea Lion Show

$195,819

$0

($195,819)

Vending Machine Commissions

$293,950

$204,085

($89,865)

Strollers

$130,000

$99,061

($30,939)

Pony Rides

$32,000

$19,975

($12,025) ($378,142)

Total Group Sales

$2,110,784

$1,732,642

Carousel

$221,252

$170,616

($50,636)

SkyRide

$251,722

$115,329

($136,393)

$3,206,554

$3,195,655

($10,899)

$146,500

$143,850

($2,651)

$0

$0

$0

$318,000

$278,051

($39,949)

Miscellaneous Revenue

$3,522,572

$2,887,052

($635,520)

Sales Tax

($160,943)

($132,222)

$28,721

$16,853,982

$14,522,176

($2,331,806)

Variance ( ) = Deficit

Society Memberships Donations Other Private Funding Sponsorships

TOTAL REVENUES

EXPENDITURES

2018 Adjusted Budget

2018 Actual Year-to-Date

Personnel Services

$7,910,189

$7,608,102

$302,087

Contractural Services/Commodities

$7,551,798

$6,396,994

$1,154,804

Capital Outlay

$866,954

$836,124

$30,830

Internal Service Charges

$587,070

$514,424

$72,646

Other Expenditures

TOTAL EXPENDITURES TAX LEVY ATTENDANCE

($273,614)

$0

($273,614)

$16,642,397

$15,355,644

$1,286,753

($211,585)

$833,468

($1,045,053)

1,325,000

1,146,045

-178,955

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Zoo Trust Funds (Unaudited) Railroad Trust Fund REVENUES

2018 Adjusted Budget

2018 Actual Year-to-Date

Zoomobile Revenue

$85,618

$69,961

($15,657)

Miniature Train Revenue

$760,000

$657,927

($102,073)

Earnings on Investments

$3,500

$17,388

$13,888

Donations and Reserve Contribution

$60,000

$46,340

($13,660)

Other Revenue

Variance ( ) = Deficit

$0

$45

$45

Sales Tax

($36,000)

($29,777)

$6,223

TOTAL REVENUES

$873,118

$761,883

($111,235)

EXPENDITURES

2018 Adjusted Budget

2018 Actual Year-to-Date

Variance ( ) = Deficit

Personnel Services

$350,863

$277,761

$73,102

Fringe Benefits

$82,240

$29,568

$52,672

Contractual Services/Commodities

$291,745

$235,956

$55,789

$0

$1,000

($1,000)

$168,523

$66,677

$101,846

$960

$583

$377

TOTAL EXPENDITURES

$894,331

$611,547

$282,784

NET INCOME (LOSS)

($21,213)

$150,336

$171,549

Conservation Projects Capital Outlay Internal Service Charges

Fund Balance January 1, 2018

$1,451,836

Net Income

$150,336

Fund Balance December 31, 2018

$1,602,172

Milwaukee County Zoo - Major Milestones

2018

Completion of West Entrance and North American River Otter Exhibit Final work completed for Adventure Africa Phase I: Elephant Exhibit

31

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Zoo Train

Zoo Trust Funds (Unaudited) (continued) Specimen Trust Fund REVENUES

2018 Adjusted Budget

2018 Actual Year-to-Date

Variance ( ) = Deficit

Earnings on Investments

$800

$3,613

$2,813

Animal Sales/Milk Sales

$16,200

$23,916

$7,716

Giraffe Experience

$0

$45

$45

Gifts & Donations

$1,500

$2,001

$501

Other Miscellaneous Revenue

$0

$0

$0

Reserve Contribution

$66,190

$0

($66,190)

TOTAL REVENUE

$84,690

$29,575

($55,115)

EXPENDITURES Contractual Services/Commodities Internal Service Charges

TOTAL EXPENDITURES NET INCOME (LOSS)

2018 Adjusted Budget

2018 Actual Year-to-Date

Variance ( ) = Deficit

$84,690

$71,418

$0

$0

$0

$84,690

$71,418

$13,272

$0

($41,843)

($41,843)

Fund Balance January 1, 2018

$384,310

Net Income

($41,843)

Fund Balance December 31, 2018

$342,467

$13,272

Conservation Trust Fund REVENUES Earnings on Investments

2018 Adjusted Budget

2018 Actual Year-to-Date

Variance ( ) = Deficit

$0

$238

$238

Giraffe Feedings

$40,000

$27,905

($12,095)

Vending Machine Commission

$12,000

$3,464

($8,536)

Conservation Contribution

$35,000

$75,630

$40,630

Gifts & Donations

$8,000

$7,163

($837)

Other Miscellaneous Revenue

$19,000

$3,833

($15,167)

Reserve Contribution

Reserve Contribution

EXPENDITURES

$0

$0

$0

$114,000

$118,233

$4,233

2018 Adjusted Budget

2018 Actual Year-to-Date

Variance ( ) = Deficit

Contractual Services/Commodities

$79,000

$82,473

Conservation Projects

$35,000

$1,500

$33,500

$114,000

$83,973

$30,027

$34,260

$34,260

TOTAL EXPENDITURES NET INCOME (LOSS) Fund Balance January 1, 2018

$0

($10,835)

Net Income

$34,260

Fund Balance December 31, 2018

$23,425

ZOO TRUST FUNDS Fund Balance January 1, 2018 Net Income Fund Balance December 31, 2018

$1,825,311 $142,754 $1,968,065

($3,473)

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Hippopotamus

Photo by Peter Zuzga

ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF MILWAUKEE The mission of the Zoological Society of Milwaukee is to conserve wildlife and endangered species, educate people about the importance of wildlife and the environment, and support the Milwaukee County Zoo.

This year we also: •

Supported activities to study and protect endangered species, including bonobos and forest elephants.

•

Analyzed more than 500,000 data points in wildlife surveys of targeted areas of the Salonga National Park.

•

Continued to support five village schools and two adult literacy classes to help villagers near the Salonga National Park. This support helps BCBI maintain a positive relationship with local communities while building their capacity to make informed conservation decisions.

CONSERVATION

The Zoological Society of Milwaukee works to protect bonobos and other wildlife in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) through the Bonobo & Congo Biodiversity Initiative (BCBI). It also coordinates the Bonobo Species Survival Plan® to keep the bonobo population in North America stable and healthy. The Society’s conservation coordinator and leader of BCBI, Dr. Gay Reinartz, was named a Woman of Influence by the Milwaukee Business Journal in 2018, a prestigious honor.

The Zoological Society also supports conservation work by Milwaukee County Zoo staff at the Zoo and around the world, and it donates to several conservation groups on behalf of the Zoo.

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Photo by Paul Ruffolo Photo by Nate Schardin and Maria Pretzel from Traveling Lemur Productions

EDUCATION

The Zoological Society’s Education Department had nearly 300,000 encounters with children and adults in 2018 through Zoo Classes and Camps, Kohl’s Wild Theater, school programs, community partnerships and other endeavors. It boasts the largest zoo-based theater program in the country, Kohl’s Wild Theater, and one of the country’s largest zoo summer camp programs. In 2018 we: •

•

Completed a second year of the Animal Connections Continuum, a three-year program to engage second- to fourth-grade students in experiences about animals and people’s empathy toward animals. Early evaluations have shown a significant impact on empathy development in participating children.

Introduced a traveling Kohl’s Wild Theater musical called “The Monarch – A Space Adventure” that teaches children about the

conditions necessary for life and the many ways animals have adapted to live in extreme conditions. A new at-Zoo show called “#Pets!” also made its debut, explaining the importance of differentiating between good information and bad information on the Internet, particularly when it comes to animals.

•

Helped send 11 kids to Zoo Camp through the Bernard J. Peck Memorial Scholarship Fund.

•

Hired Julia Petersen as the Society’s first senior director of programs, overseeing education and Zoo Pride, the Society’s volunteer program. Additionally, she will help support our conservation program as needed. Petersen has many years of experience directing and implementing strategy and programs in mission-based organizations.

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ZOO SUPPORT

The Zoological Society supports the Milwaukee County Zoo through cash and in-kind services. Half of all revenue raised by the Zoo Pass membership program goes to the Zoo in unrestricted funds to support the day-to-day operations of the Zoo. The Society provides additional funds through its procurement of sponsorships for Zoo attractions and events. The Society also provides graphic design, information technology and direct project support and operates Zoo Pride, a volunteer program that serves the Society and Zoo. In 2018, we: •

Announced, with the Milwaukee County Zoo, our $25 million Window to the Wild Capital Campaign. The first phase of the campaign supports Adventure Africa, which includes new exhibits for the elephants, hippos, rhinos and African hoofstock. By the end of fiscal year 2018, the Society had raised $17.7 million toward its $25 million goal, including money raised during the quiet period of the campaign.

•

Launched Beasties™ Safari, presented by Blue Moon, a summerlong campaign to raise awareness of the capital campaign.

Beasties, whimsical creatures created by Milwaukee artist Dennis Pearson, were painted by local artists and placed around the Zoo and community. They were sold or auctioned off at the end of summer.

•

Provided $9.6 million to the Zoo in 2018 in cash and in-kind support, plus $1.9 million in direct project costs.

•

Supported the Zoo in its successful application for another fiveyear accreditation with the Association of Zoos & Aquariums.

•

Served nearly 50,000 member households in our Zoo Pass program. The program is ranked number four nationally among membership organizations through a study by the Morey Group.

•

Celebrated completion of a new outdoor chute connected to the primates building that will allow colobus monkeys to go outside for the first time ever. The project was funded through the Society’s 2016 Annual Appeal.

•

Gratefully acknowledged more than 51,000 hours of service to the Zoo and Society from our 530 active Zoo Pride volunteers.

•

Created more than 600 print and sign projects, including the signs for the new Otter Passage at the Zoo’s West Entrance.

The Society was awarded first place for the otter graphics from the Wisconsin Sign Association in the category of direction/ wayfinding signs.

•

Continued to fund two veterinary residency programs in the Zoo’s Animal Health Center.

Photo by Paul Ruffolo

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ZSM FINANCIAL SUMMARY Zoological Society of Milwaukee County – Year ending Sept. 30, 2018

SUPPORT & REVENUE MEMBERSHIP DUES from all Zoo Pass and Platypus Circle members . . . . . . . . $7,094,053

COST OF SUPPORT & REVENUE (Support Services)

CONTRIBUTIONS toward projects, specific programs and support . . . . . . . . $4,326,060

MEMBERSHIP DUES Expense of providing benefits to all Zoo Pass and Platypus Circle members . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,722,540

SPECIAL EVENTS/PROGRAMS/SPONSORSHIPS including animal sponsorship, Zoo Ball, education, Society and Zoo special events, and sponsorships . . . . . . $2,418,865

SPECIAL EVENTS/PROGRAMS Expense of providing and promoting Society special events/programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $521,183

INTEREST INCOME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $165,119

TOTAL COST OF SUPPORT & REVENUE (Support Services) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,243,723

GRANTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,115,282 TOTAL SUPPORT & REVENUE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$15,119,379

EXPENSES DIRECT PROJECT COSTS Expenses relative to projects and specific programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,884,624 ZOO SUPPORT Direct cash and in-kind support to the Milwaukee County Zoo, including expense of providing, promoting and supporting education, graphics, special-exhibit projects, and Zoo special events . . . . . . . $9,570,689 BOARD-DESIGNATED RESERVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $234,089

RESEARCH/CONSERVATION Expenses relating to state, national and international programs supporting species preservation . . . . . . . . . . . $556,703 GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE Expenses relating to daily Society operations . . . . . . . . $521,029 TOTAL EXPENSES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $12,767,134 TOTAL COST OF SUPPORT AND EXPENSES . . . . . . $15,010,857

Trim 8.0 x 8.0 inch Alaskan Brown Bear

MILWAUKEE COUNTY EXECUTIVE Chris Abele

MILWAUKEE COUNTY BOARD CHAIRMAN Theodore Lipscomb, Sr. . . . . . . . . . . 1st District

BOARD OF SUPERVISORS Deanna Alexander . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18th District Eddie Cullen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15th District Marina Dimitrijevic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4th District Jason Haas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14th District Willie Johnson, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13th District Patty Logsdon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9th District Felesia A. Martin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7th District Supreme Moore Omokunde. . . . . . 10th District Marcella Nicholson . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5th District Sylvia Ortiz-Velez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12th District James “Luigi” Schmitt. . . . . . . . . . . 6th District Dan Sebring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11th District Steven Shea. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8th District Anthony Staskunas . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17th District Sequanna Taylor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2nd District Sheldon Wasserman . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3rd District John F. Weishan, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . 16th District

The Milwaukee County Zoo offers equal opportunities for employees and visitors alike.

EDITOR: Jennifer Diliberti-Shea DESIGNER: Jessie Kinsey PHOTOGRAPHER: Joel Miller (Unless otherwise noted)

10001 W. Bluemound Road Milwaukee, WI 53226 414-771-3040 milwaukeezoo.org

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