Morning Papers - continued ...

Zoos

Brisbane & Australia Zoo
The trip to Brisbane was the first time since we have been here that we've had to use public transport. We got a bus from Hervey Bay down to Brisbane that left at 5:30 am- luckily my favourite time of the day. The city of Brisbane is pretty similar looking to Sydney and I quite liked it. We were staying in a hostel with a bar and club as part of it and with cheap food available from the bar we never really needed to leave. However we thought it'd be a bit pointless to come all the way here just to spend all day and night in the bar... even though the pool table was free- so we just did that every other day.
In the city there was quite a lot to do, especially if you walked through it and across the river to where all the cultural stuff was like the art gallery, museum and lagoon- all of which were my favourite price (free).
We spent about a week in Brisbane and met a lot of new people, there was still stuff left to do when we left but we can do that when we're flying out of

http://www.travelblog.org/Australasia/Australia/Queensland/Australia-Zoo/blog-135111.html


Al Ain Zoo welcomes two new arrivals to look up to
By Aftab Kazmi, Bureau Chief
Al Ain: Two giraffes have been born at Al Ain Zoo, the zoo administration announced here yesterday.
The babies were born 15 days apart and are both females. Both babies are been doing fine.
"Baby Minu was born on January 30, to mother Nina while her companion [the other baby] Tintu was born on February 15 to mother Tena," said a zoo spokesman.
He said the mothers and babies have been separated from the main herd (one male and four females) as a precaution against disturbance from other animal species.

http://archive.gulfnews.com/articles/07/03/05/10108727.html


Bears, bobcats complete zoo exhibit
Published: Sunday, March 4, 2007
PORTLAND - Black bears and bobcats will be the guests of honor Saturday when the Oregon Zoo opens the final two components of its $36 million Great Northwest exhibit.
Black Bear Ridge and Cascade Canyon Trail round out the zoo's crest-to-coast adventure.
"It's been a long road, but the finished product is worth it," Zoo director Tony Vecchio said in a news release. "The opening of Cascade Canyon Trail and the addition of black bears and bobcats is the realization of a vision that took a decade to finish."
A number of activities have been planned from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., including talks by exhibit keepers.
The first phase of the Great Northwest exhibit, Cascade Crest, opened in 1998 and introduced mountain goats to the zoo. The new exhibit leads deeper into the forest via a 100-foot-long suspension bridge with a bird's-eye view of Black Bear Ridge and its three black bears. Past the bridge, visitors can get a peek at reclusive bobcats.
From there, the forest trail connects with Eagle Canyon, where a bald eagle flies, and continues into a stream-and-marsh environment with beavers and river otters. Just outside this area is Cougar Crossing, home to two orphaned cougars, and Trillium Creek Family Farm, a teen-run exhibit. The last leg of the journey takes visitors to Steller Cove, home to two Steller sea lions.
For more information, visit www.oregonzoo.org or call (503) 226-1561.

http://www.registerguard.com/news/2007/03/04/ol.zoobrief.0304.p1.php?section=cityregion


Dalai Lama to visit Irwins' zoo
By Christine Flatley
March 05, 2007 12:32pm
Article from: AAP
CROCODILE Hunter Steve Irwin built his Queensland zoo show the world his love of animals - now the Dalai Lama will use it to promote kindness to all creatures.
Australia Zoo's 5000-seat Crocoseum will become the stage for the 14th Dalai Lama to launch the start of Kindness Week later this year, as part of his 2007 Australia Tour.
Kindness Week, which runs from June 13-19, is a major initiative by Karuna Hospice Services - Australia's only Buddhist hospice - which provides comfort and quality of life for people who are dying and their families.
It is designed to promote compassion for all living things.
Over the years, Australia Zoo - on Queensland's Sunshine Coast - has fostered a long-standing relationship with the Dalai Lama in Dharamsala, India, with both sharing a similar philosophy for wildlife and conservation.
During his visit to the zoo, the Dalai Lama will share this philosophy with visitors through a short talk on kindness and animal conservation.
The Dalai Lama's Australian tour takes the spiritual leader to a number of cities around the country, starting with a forum in Perth on June 6.
He also will visit Bendigo, Canberra, Brisbane and Sydney.
Many of these events are free, with tickets to be released closer to the dates.

http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,21326339-1702,00.html


Detroit Zoo Celebrates 30 Years Of Volunteer Service
Similar Stories
For Ellen Gruskin of Oak Park, Evelyn Silverman of Southfield, and Gini Sutherland of Birmingham, the Detroit Zoo is not just a place to volunteer; it is their passion. The three women were part of the Zoo’s first docent class of 1977 and for 30 years they have been actively educating thousands of visitors about the Zoo’s animals and habitats.
“There were three hundred applicants for thirty available docent positions that first year and I was thrilled to be chosen,” recalls Gruskin. “Little did I know I’d be embarking on an adventure that would captivate me for so many years.” Born and raised in the Detroit area, Gruskin loved the Zoo as a child and still treasures her original red Zoo Key.
Silverman’s interest in the Zoo’s docent program was peaked when she spotted an article in the newspaper. “I thought I’d enjoy being outdoors, learning new things, and communicating with diverse groups of people,” she says. Silverman enjoyed it so much, she recruited her sister and several friends into the docent program.

http://www.huliq.com/13358/detroit-zoo-celebrates-30-years-of-volunteer-service


Pueblo Zoo picks names for three lion cubs
Pueblo's three adorable lion cubs now have names. The Pueblo Zoo recently held a contest to name the cubs and got more than 500 entries. The winners were announced during the first weekend of March.
The oldest female cub was named Jasira. Aneleise Montoya, 6, of Pueblo came up with this name. Jasira means bold or courageous.
The youngest female cub was named Shetani. Randi Sponsel, 17, of Pueblo West came up with this name. It means great skill at being clever.
The male cub was named Bakari. Madison Bradfield, 6, of Pueblo West came up with this name. Bakari means one with great promise. "If he's going to be king someday he's going to have to have a lot of promise," Bradfield said. 
The winners each received a family membership to the Pueblo Zoo for a year, and several other prizes.
The lions cubs will keep these names for the rest of their lives.
Posted By: David Ortiviz  (Updated: 3/4/2007 3:59:02 PM)

http://www.koaa.com/news/view.asp?ID=6836



Zoo People
Dear J-
We go to the San Diego Zoo quite often, partly because we’re members (and thus we want to use our passes as often as possible) and partly because there’s so many interesting animals to see. Generally, on weekends we’ll try to go (1) early (2) to the Children’s Zoo and later, (3) to see the big cats.
Early is better, the animals tend to be a little more active, waiting for mealtime. Plus the maddening crowds tend to be pretty thin right at opening, parking is better, etc. … you know the drill. The only drawback is that the large reptiles tend to be very sluggish when it’s cold (although they just sleep when it’s hot … not like they have to chase a chicken or a goat around the island for sustenance, after all).
Immediately upon entering the zoo, hang a left and head past the gift shops towards the Children’s Zoo. Although it’s ostensibly for kids, we like most of the animals, and have come to regard them with something pet-like in affection. Diego’s the ocelot. This fella, according to lore, was slated for release to the wild, but when it came time, they found out that he’d already bonded with humans. (TheVet & I talk about him with loud sappy voices … “HE LIKES … PEEEPULLL! AWWW!”)

http://dearj.wordpress.com/2007/03/04/zoo-people/



Escaped “Orangutan” Terrifies Children in Tokyo Zoo Drill
A zoo in western Tokyo has carried out an animal escape drill with an employee wearing an orangutan costume. Small children were terrified by the fearsome renegade ape.
Ah, the orangutan, a noble primate. The remarkably intelligent ape, whose name means "person of the forest" can hardly enjoy captivity. So it was no surprise that one orangutan launched an escape bid in a zoo in western Tokyo Tuesday.
Except the runaway ape was in fact a zoo keeper in an animal costume. The escape bid was actually part of an elaborate drill to train for real animal break outs.
Zoo workers practiced surrounding the escapee with nets before pretending to shoot it with a tranquilizer dart. The renegade primate was then "returned" to its enclosure.
Not everybody was able to tell the simulation from reality, however. Several small children were terrified by the "orangutan" and burst into tears.

http://www.hahmed.com/blog/2007/03/05/escaped-orangutan-terrifies-children-in-tokyo-zoo-drill/


Okinawa Zoo & Museum

It’s worth the 2000 yen to get a season pass here. Okay, so the animals don’t have the fancy habitats that you might find back in the States. On the bright side though, the walk through the zoo is much shorter since the animal’s quarters are on the small side. In ten good strides you can take in hippos, chimps, lions, tigers and giraffes. All the big name animals are right there for your kids to call out to. Even a raccoon, like the one you might see in your garbage can back home. Or the enormous bats that keep watch over the humid Okinawan nights.
The walking loop by the animals is steep. If you prefer traveling downhill then start at the top, otherwise take the elevator to the bottom and work your way up. I find it steep for pushing a stroller up but my friend says the same about going down. Whatever tickles you.
There is also a train, carousel and a bumper car track. These are separate fees and range between one and two hundred yen. And there is a man-made pond with pedal boats and food for the ducks and fish. And, wow, these carp can open wide.

http://okimama.wordpress.com/2007/03/05/okinawa-zoo-museum


Henry Doorly Zoo Membership Drive Under Way
The annual Henry Doorly Zoo membership drive is under way at UNO.
The zoo is offering memberships to university employees and students at the annual rate of $68 per household. The cost includes unlimited admission for two adults and dependent children or grandchildren under age 21, discounted admission to more than 100 zoos throughout North America and the Lozier IMAX Theater, discounts on children's classes and more.
Memberships cost $68 until April 1 and $75 after that date. To access an order form, click on the following link:
Zoo Membership Form
For membership inquiries, contact Interim Chancellor John Christensen or Kris Bell at 554.2262.

http://www.unomaha.edu/whatsup/2007/0305.php


L.A. Zoo Earth Day Expo
Date: April 21, 2007 - April 22, 2007
Time: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens
Address: 5333 Zoo Drive , Los Angeles , 90027
Cross Streets: Ventura 134 / Golden State 5 Freeways
Transit Tips: The Los Angeles Zoo is located at the junction of the Ventura (134) and Golden State (5) freeways.
Directions: General Transportation Directions
Transit Directions: Use the Metro Trip Planner!
Driving Directions: Get Driving Directions
Phone: (323) 644-4200
Admission: L.A. Zoo Earth Day Expo is free with paid admission to the LA Zoo. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children 2 to12.
Kid Friendly: Games, fun and educational crafts.
Accessibility: Wheel Chair Access
Website: www.lazoo.org
Description: The Los Angeles Zoo and K-EARTH 101 will celebrate Earth Day Expo 2007 with activities and information that will assist families all year long about ways to do their part for the world in their care. The Zoo will offer recycling and conservation booths and displays, as well as fun games and educational crafts for the entire family. Come meet the Zoo’s recycling mascot, Rascal the Recycling Raccoon and learn his 3Rs to conservation. Rascal will teach guest how to make everyday Earth Day!

http://www.experiencela.com/calendar/eventmore.asp?key=12205


Panda Returns from Houston Zoo 85% Fatter
Beijing (Digital Dementia News Services) – Beijing zoo officials were astonished when Wei Ling, a Chinese panda, was returned to their zoo after an 18-month loan to the Houston zoo.  Patrons of the Beijing zoo audibly gasped when Wei Ling was first put on display after returning from her year and a half long stay in Houston. 
“What have they been feeding her?” wondered Beijing zoo visitor, Chiu Mee.  “Pandas are supposed to eat bamboo, not Big Macs, French fries and Krispy Kremes.” 
Houston zoo officials maintain that Wei Ling was fed only bamboo, though admit that she might have put on a few pounds while in their care and custody.  Harold Reinart, Director of the Houston Zoological Gardens, told reporters, “We have successfully returned Wei Ling to her native China in better physical condition than she was when we received her 18 months ago.  Admittedly, she has put on a little bit of weight, but that is only normal for a healthy, happy bear living in the land of plenty.  I don’t know why the Chinese are complaining.  Hell, I thought they’d be pleased.  She looks a lot more like Buddha now!” 

http://www.nowpublic.com/panda_returns_from_houston_zoo_85_fatter


The Philadelphia Zoo loses its elephants
March 6, 2007, 04:49 AM
PHILADELPHIA, March 5 (UPI) — The Philadelphia Zoo has started a send-off celebration for its four elephants Petal, Dulary, Bette and Kallie.
The four elephants will be sent to new homes when the zoo closes its elephant exhibit this spring, The Philadelphia Enquirer reported Monday. The decision to move the elephants was made last fall.
Dulary, 42, was captured in Thailand as a baby and has lived in Philadelphia ever since. He will move to the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee.
Petal, 50, who has also lived in Philadelphia for most of her life, is expected to move to the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, along with Kallie, 24, and Bette, 23.
Once all of the elephants are gone by late June, the Philadelphia Zoo will be without the species for the first time in its 133-year history.
We understand, particularly with Dulary and Petal, we have a responsibility to help our members and families say goodbye, zoo spokeswoman Gretchen Toner said. We don't want it to be a surprise when people come to the zoo and the elephants are gone.

http://www.imedinews.ge/en/news_read/25073


Kansas City Zoo to help save endangered amphibians
Associated Press
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Kansas City Zoo is offering to become a haven for frogs and salamanders that are coming perilously close to extinction.
Kansas City is one of several zoos, aquariums and botanical gardens throughout the country that will be part of a worldwide "Amphibian Ark," which seeks to establish captive breeding programs to help endangered amphibians.
"What's depressing about amphibians is that this is a worldwide trend," said Jeff Briggler, a herpetologist for the Missouri Department of Conservation. "One-third of them are declining."
Experts say amphibians are good indicators of ecological health because they are sensitive to chemicals introduced to the environment and changes in wetlands, woodlands and prairies.
"We're planning to help, although we're just now getting our frogs in a row," said Liz Harmon, general curator for the Kansas City Zoo.

http://www.belleville.com/mld/belleville/news/state/16838164.htm


S.D. Zoo's Sun Bear Cub Dazzles Researchers, Zoo Visitors
There's a new face at the San Diego Zoo this week. Bulan is a five-month-old Bornean Sun Bear. KPBS Radio's Andrea Hsu says the young cub gives scientists -- and the public -- a rare chance to learn about the least studied and most threatened of bears.
Visitors to the zoo's Sun Bear Forest peer over a railing to catch a glimpse of Dibu -- Bulan's daddy. Dibu is black, with a little white polka dot on his nose. And of course - the signature yellowish marking on his chest that looks like a setting sun.
Hall: He's a beautiful animal.
Suzanne Hall researches endangered species at the zoo. Since Bulan has already gone in for the day, she takes me behind the scenes to see the rare cub and its mother, Marcella.
Hall: This is the back area of the sun bear facility. This is the kitchen where they prepare the meals.
In the wild, Bornean sun bears eat fruit and insects. Here, they feed on fruit and vegetables, also small brown pellets full of protein and calcium. And today, zookeeper Daniel Baublit has a special treat.

http://www.kpbs.org/news/local?id=7554


CR Rec Dept. offers family day trip to Omaha Zoo
From the Cedar Rapids Recreation Department
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The Cedar Rapids Recreation Department is offering a family day trip to Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo on Monday, March 26 during the schools’ spring break. You will depart by motor coach from the Ambroz Center, 2000 Mt. Vernon Rd. SE, at 6:30 a.m. and return by 10:00 p.m.
Call the Cedar Rapids Recreation Department, 286-5731, and/or check the website below for more information or to register.
For more information, visit Cedar Rapids Rec Trip to Omaha Zoo Info.

http://www.kcrg.com/news/local/6320487.html


El Paso Zoo Hosts International Wedding
by Rene Leon
Waiting at the altar was the groom, Suzuki, dressed in a white formal coat and a red tie. His bride, Honami, walked down a white carpet strewn with red rose petals to the song “You’re the One That I Want” from the musical “Grease.” Glenn Greene, a motorcycle enthusiast and friend of the groom, administered the couple’s vows. Many of the guests were also avid motorcycle riders, and were dressed accordingly.
Posted on March 5, 2007
The El Paso Zoo on Sunday was the venue for the marriage of Masao Suzuki and Eri Honami, both of Japan. They exchanged their vows in front a crowd of nearly forty of their friends and family members. The wedding took place upon a rock altar, with a cascading waterfall and willow tree providing a serene backdrop for the occasion.
Waiting at the altar was the groom, Suzuki, dressed in a white formal coat and a red tie. His bride, Honami, walked down a white carpet strewn with red rose petals to the song “You’re the One That I Want” from the musical “Grease.” Glenn Greene, a motorcycle enthusiast and friend of the groom, administered the couple’s vows. Many of the guests were also avid motorcycle riders, and were dressed accordingly.

http://www.newspapertree.com/features/1171-el-paso-zoo-hosts-international-wedding

concluding ...

 

The Antarctica Ice Chime at McMurdo Station

 

March 7, 2007

1324 gmt

The Northern Hemisphere

As time permits, I'll be adding more stations to this satellite.

Glacier Bay National Park

Elevation :: 33 ft / 10 m

Temperature :: 32 °F / 0 °C

Conditions :: Mostly Cloudy

Humidity :: 80%

Dew Point :: 27 °F / -3 °C

Wind :: Calm

Pressure :: 29.40 in / 996 hPa

Visibility :: 10.0 miles / 16.1 kilometers

UV :: 0 out of 16

Clouds:
Few 2800 ft / 853 m
Few 4100 ft / 1249 m
Mostly Cloudy 5000 ft / 1524 m
(Above Ground Level)

 

March 7, 2007

1324 gmt

The Southern Hemisphere


The highs and lows of Antarctica today:

Dome C, Antarctica

Elevation :: 10761 ft / 3280 m

Temperature :: -63 °F / -53 °C

Wind :: 6 mph / 9 km/h / from the WSW

Wind Gust :: -

Pressure :: in / hPa (Rising)

Aviation
Flight Rule :: NA

Wind Speed :: 6 mph / 9 km/h /

Wind Dir :: 250° (WSW)

Ceiling -



Vostok, Antarctica

Elevation :: 11220 ft / 3420 m

Temperture :: -61 °F / -52 °C

Conditions :: Clear

Humidity :: 36%

Dew Point :: -69 °F / -56 °C

Wind :: 12 mph / 18 km/h / from the WNW

Wind Gust -

Pressure :: in / hPa (Rising)

Visibility :: 12.0 miles / 20.0 kilometers




Base Orcadas, Antarctica

Elevation :: 20 ft / 6 m

Temperature 35 °F / 2 °C

Conditions Light Snow

Humidity :: 56%

Dew Point: :: 25 °F / -4 °C

Wind :: 21 mph / 33 km/h / from the SE

Wind Gust -

Pressure :: 29.34 in / 994 hPa (Rising)

Visibility :: 5.0 miles / 8.0 kilometers

Clouds :: Mostly Cloudy 787 ft / 240 m
(Above Ground Level)