Morning Papers - continued...

August 11, 2007
Atlanta, Georgia
Photographer states :: Hot Weather

Zoos

Mill Mountain Zoo welcomes a pair of rare foxes (08/10)
There are two new reasons to visit Mill Mountain Zoo, and their names are Sage and Rosemary.
However, if you want to catch a glimpse of them in action, you're going to have to check them out early in the morning or late in the evening. That's because the corsac foxes love to sleep.
The animals are the latest addition to the zoo family. They came from the San Diego Zoo. Mill Mountain Zoo is the second zoo in the country to have these rare animals. "It gives [people] the opportunity to see animals that they wouldn't see anywhere else," says Dave Orndorff, the zoo's general curator. "So few zoos display small carnivores in captivity. It's a species or a type of animal that are very difficult to maintain."
There are only five of these animals on display in the United States.

http://www.wdbj7.com/Global/story.asp?S=6915156



Red pandas, Asian elephant born in Alberta zoos
Last Updated: Friday, August 10, 2007 1:15 PM MT
CBC News
Two Alberta zoos are celebrating baby news, with Edmonton's Valley Zoo saying two red pandas have survived the critical first month and the Calgary Zoo announcing the birth of an Asian elephant calf.
Both species are endangered.
The yet-to-be-named pandas were born on June 26, but the first month is critical because that's when they are most likely to become sick and die.
Sandy Helliker, an animal health technician, has been with the pandas day and night and believes they'll survive. They were taken from their mother after concerns she was over-grooming them.

"I think their chances are very good now that they are older and getting more mobile," she said.

http://www.cbc.ca/canada/edmonton/story/2007/08/10/zoo-babies.html



Star treatment
Last Updated: 12:01am BST 11/08/2007
Page 1 of 3
Shocked at the conditions endured by animals on film sets and in zoos, Pat Derby, herself a trainer in Hollywood, set out to improve their lot. Thirty years on, her work for elephants in particular has transformed their lives. Martin Pearson visits her sanctuary in California
A nine-ton African elephant was silhouetted against a hazy horizon, partly hidden by billowing plumes of dust. It lumbered across the landscape towards a small woman dressed in a pink silk blouse, khakis and a crushed cowboy hat on top of her red pigtails, who nestled beneath its swaying trunk and cooed as if it were an overgrown pussycat.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/arts/main.jhtml?xml=/arts/2007/08/11/sm_elephants11.xml



Elephants not 'thriving'
By Times-Herald readers
Article Launched: 08/10/2007 07:50:58 AM PDT
I read the opinion of Kristin Vehrs, Director of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), ("These elephants are thriving," Aug. 3) about Six Flags' care of elephants with disbelief. She claims that, despite seven elephant deaths in the last 10 years, the elephants are "thriving." As proof, she states that the park is a member of the AZA, which has "rigorous standards."
These rigorous standards permit elephants to be chained 12 hours per day and allow keepers to shock elephants with electric prods and to hit them with bullhooks.
Citizens concerned for Six Flags' elephants obtained the medical records of four of the elephants that actually belonged to the city of Vallejo. Of those four, one is on high doses of pain killers for severe arthritis and another has a fractured toe and chronic bone infection in her foot; yet both of these elephants are still giving rides and lifting heavy logs in shows. A third elephant has hives and a constricted throat from stress. Six Flags won't release the records of the three elephants it owns. We can guess why.

http://www.timesheraldonline.com/ci_6591989




Last of The True Wild Horses

Thirty-five years ago, the people of Mongolia caught what they thought was their final glimpse of a wild takh, the world’s last remaining species of untamed horse.

Mongolia has been the land of the horse for longer than anyone can remember.

Distinguished from domestic horses in part by their thicker necks, shorter legs, and zebra-like erect mane, takhi were last seen in the wild during the 1960s in the Gobi, which accounts for roughly the southern third of Mongolia.

http://simplymarvelous.wordpress.com/2007/08/10/last-of-the-true-wild-horses/



Bear escaped pen at Zooz by burrowing beneath fence
RAY SPITERI
Local News - Saturday, August 11, 2007 @ 07:00
Willy managed to burrow his way under his pen - a special enclosure surrounded by a three-metre-high chain-link fence that has a strand of electrified wire running around it, says Zooz co-owner Marianne Tykolis-Casey.
"The potential factors that led to his escape are still being investigated," she told The Review Friday.
The 135-kilogram Syrian brown bear took a tour of the backfields in Stevensville after his disappearance from the popular tourist attraction around midnight Tuesday. He was captured about 15 hours later less than 500 metres from his home at the park.
Although Zooz opened the day after the fiasco, Tykolis-Casey said the back end of the park - which contains two bear exhibits housing four bears including Willy - has been closed as the company looks into ways of providing more security in the area.
The area could be back open to the public this weekend if the security improvements are complete.

http://www.niagarafallsreview.ca/webapp/sitepages/content.asp?contentid=648687&catname=Local%20News&classif=



Missing Wallaby Found
Aug 13, 2007 12:33 AM EDT
Updated: Skippy the Wallaby has been found. Joe Freed call the Eyewitness Newsroom late Sunday night to tell us that someone found Skippy while feeding ducks not far from Freed's home. We're told Skippy is fine but seems glad to be home.
A Wichita man needs your help to find his missing pet. Joe Freed has a 9-month-old wallaby that got away Saturday night near 27th and Oak Streets in Southwest Wichita. The wallaby is named Skippy and looks like a small kangaroo. He's four pounds and about a foot tall.
It is not dangerous but may startle easily. If you see the animal, don't try and catch it. Freed says Skippy is very fast and will likely run away. He asks that you call him so he can come and catch him. Freed is offering a $500 reward.
Freed says Skippy may still be in the area and is likely curled up in a flower pot or another object that feels like a "pouch." The animal is known to sleep during the day but may move around at night.
Freed is the owner of Petiatric.com, a company that manufactures intensive care units for animals. He ships them to zoos, veterinarians and breeders all over the world.
If you see Skippy, please call Joe Freed at (316) 831-9500 or Janet Nottingham at (316) 214-2006.

http://www.kbsd6.com/Global/story.asp?S=6921269



‘Productive’ addition of white tigers
Bindu Shajan Perappadan
Photo: Sushil Kumar Verma
Keeping a watch: Tigress Kaveri with her cubs at Delhi Zoo.
NEW DELHI: Brought to the Delhi Zoo from Nandankanan National Park, the white tiger Laxman has been a very “productive” addition. Thanks to his new wild bloodline, the zoo now not only boasts a healthy litter of six white tiger cubs, but will also help out zoos across the country by sending them white tigers.

http://www.hindu.com/2007/08/13/stories/2007081357400400.htm



South Bend to Offer Help to Potawatomi Zoo
InsideINdianaBusiness.com Report
The South Bend City Council will hear a proposal from Mayor Stephen Luecke to provide $1.4 million to the Potawatomi Zoo. The zoo has said it needs the funds to address maintenance problems it hasn't fixed since its last accreditation three years ago, including substandard air conditioning, lighting and cramped living quarters for animals.

http://www.insideindianabusiness.com/newsitem.asp?ID=24920



Pets and zoos: Pooches: 'Dog days' are for the birds
By Jean Gordon
jmgordon@clarionledger.com
These are the dog days of summer.
But dogs don't want anything to do with them.
"Normally they love to go outside and play and chase each other," Jackson receptionist Jennifer Hawkins said of her stocky boxer and fluffy Pomeranian. "But here you open the door, and they don't want to go out."
She has been helping her dogs cope with the heat with plenty of water. "We're just taking them out to go to the bathroom," she said, adding she now gets up at 5:30 a.m. to let the dogs out.

http://www.clarionledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070814/NEWS/708140381/1001



Zoo inspires exhibition
Childhood visits to one of the Black Country’s most popular tourist attractions have been the inspiration behind a major exhibition at Wolverhampton Art Gallery, which is opening on September 19.
Zoo is a solo exhibition of video works and photographs by West Midlander Richard Billingham.
Filmed in zoos across the UK, Europe and South America, the project explores the impact of confined spaces on animal behaviour.
But the idea for the exhibition came from nostalgic memories, as the artist was initially inspired by his trips Dudley Zoo in the 1970s.
The project also looks at the complexities of the relationship between the animals and their audience.
The public zoo came into existence when animals began to disappear from social life in England during the process of urban industrialisation in the nineteenth century.
The exhibition features both rare and more commonplace animals and questions the paradox at work in the loss of the animal’s natural habitat, with its simultaneous preservation in an artificial environment.
Richard Billingham was born in Birmingham in 1970 and achieved international recognition after a series of his photographs depicting his family were published in the book Ray’s a Laugh in 1996. In 1997, he won the Citibank Photography Prize and his work was also included in Sensation: Young British Artists from the Saatchi Collection at the Royal Academy.

http://www.expressandstar.co.uk/2007/08/14/zoo-inspires-exhibition/



Zoos cleared of cruelty
THE RSPCA has refused to release the results of its investigation into animal deaths at Taronga and Western Plains zoos.
The investigation was ordered in June, after the deaths of a greater one-horned rhinoceros and a female African elephant.
The RSPCA's chief inspector, David O'Shannessy, said yesterday that no action would be taken against the zoos because no evidence of cruelty had been found in the animals' veterinary records or in keeping standards.
"There were no breaches [of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act]," he said.
But he declined to release the report to the Herald.

http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/zoos-cleared-of-cruelty/2007/08/14/1186857512042.html



Moonridge zoo is stop for bearkeepers
Moonridge Animal Park has earned another honor. The local zoo will be a stop for the BIERZS 2007 conference on Aug. 25.
BIERZS, or the Bear Information Exchange for Rehabilitators, Zoos and Sanctuaries, is an organization that furthers knowledge of bear caretaking and brings together zoos to study bear behavior, husbandry, enrichment, training and preventative care.
Zoo curator Don Richardson said zoos from all over the world will visit Moonridge Zoo on the second day of the symposium. He said there will be between 80 and 85 zoo representatives in attendance.

http://www.bigbeargrizzly.net/articles/2007/08/14/news/zoo.txt



Vilas Zoo introduces new giraffes
Sandra Kallio
608-252-6181
skallio@madison.com
Vilas Zoo grew taller Tuesday with the introduction of the first two of three male giraffes the zoo is adding this summer: 5-year-old half-brothers Zawadi (Swahili for gift) and Sweta (sweater or jersey).
Standing water and spongy ground on the renovated outdoor exhibit meant they debuted at their indoor exhibit, although the two -- who come to Madison from Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs, Colo. -- may be outside today.
A class of Zoo Scouts were among the children getting the first looks at Sweta, who was just as curious about his visitors as they were about him, and Zawadi, who sat as photographers hustled for prime spots, children chattered and zoo director Jim Hubing and Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk offered crackers but failed to tempt either giraffe closer.

http://www.madison.com/wsj/home/local/index.php?ntid=205589&ntpid=1



Better laws are needed to protect animals in zoos
Editorial & Opinion - Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Updated @ 6:44:00 AM
WHILE ZOOZ FARED well in the World Society for the Protection of Animals' 2005 report, its passing grade was based on an assessment of just five exhibits at the facility.
Had the auditor seen it the way I see it, they would have seen giraffes that are still kept in a small, barren exhibit with no shade or shelter; raptors that are tethered by their water dishes; reindeer that pace back and forth on stones; or the red kangaroo that has little room for full speed hopping.


http://www.niagarafallsreview.ca/webapp/sitepages/content.asp?contentid=653119&catname=Editorial+%26+Opinion&classif=



Dated


Zoo Matchmaker
This interactive teaches the principles of breeding to conserve genetic diversity
versus the trade-offs in breeding for a specific trait.

http://www.mnzoo.com/education/games/matchmaker/index.html


Big snake joins couple in bed
(China Daily)
Updated: 2006-09-28 08:56
A rare Myanmar python snuck into a seventh-floor apartment in Quanzhou of Fujian Province on Monday and awakened the male dweller with three kisses on the face.
The 4-metre-long python awakened You and his wife at about 3 am. Judging by its appearance, You was relieved as he knew it was not poisonous. He boldly touched the python, which lay on the ground and seemed to enjoy his stroking.
About two hours later, police came and took the 30-kilogram python away. However, they were puzzled as to where the python was from, as it was worth at least 100,000 yuan (US$12,500) and is rarely seen even in zoos.
The Straits Metropolis News

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2006-09/28/content_698526.htm



Vets harvest eggs of a black-footed cat at the zoo
Web Posted: 09/27/2006 11:08 PM CDT
Scott Huddleston
Express-News Staff Writer
Buffy doesn't know it — she's sound asleep, after all — but she might just be helping save her species.
In an in vitro procedure that's been around for only two years, zoo veterinarians removed eggs from her ovaries Wednesday in a procedure aimed at helping protect black-footed cats like Buffy. Only about 30 of the little cats live in U.S. zoos, and many others in their native habitat in southern Africa are endangered by habitat destruction.

http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/metro/stories/MYSA092806.01B.catoperation.319d1f2.html



Editorial: The little zoo that can?
In asking for community support -- lots of it -- Mill Mountain Zoo must articulate a vision for a showcase that will make Roanoke proud.
As zoo experiences go, Mill Mountain Zoo rates barely a so-so on its best day. So it comes as little surprise that the zoo received notice this week that unless it makes major improvements -- some that have been put off for years -- it will lose its accreditation through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
The Mill Mountain Zoo has but a year to pull off a turn-around. Without a tremendous boost of community support, the chances of the zoo doing so are about as forlorn as the picture in Tuesday's edition of a little boy gazing into a barren old prairie dog pit.
The animals don't know or care whether the zoo keeps its accreditation. Perhaps even the 70,000 yearly visitors don't think about it either.

http://www.roanoke.com/editorials/wb/wb/xp-84610



Before ‘Jungle' became his first name, Jack Hanna was just a kid from Tennessee
by Mary Childress
Daily Mail staff
Jack Hanna and I are old friends -- I mean really old friends.
I knew him before there was a "Jungle" in front of his name, back when we both attended the same elementary school in Knoxville, Tenn. My first crush was on his big brother Ross, who is my age. And Jack took piano lessons from my mother.
Boy, is it a small world.
Little did we know back then that this animal-loving, boy wonder would end up taming the world of wild animals and become a leader in the field of wild-animal conservation.
When Jack and his family lived down the street, we had no idea that dreams of being a zoo director and traveling the world filled his head.
He was just a cute kid from the neighborhood.

http://www.dailymail.com/story/Life/+/200609285/Before+%91Jungle'+became+his+first+name,+Jack+Hanna+was+just+a+kid+from+Tennessee/


Elephant delivers healthy male calf
Wire Report
HOUSTON - An Asian elephant at the Houston Zoo gave birth Sunday to a healthy 384-pound male calf that zoo officials say is a big baby, even for an elephant.
Zoo officials believe the calf, born to Shanti, is the largest ever delivered at a facility accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Newborn Asian elephants normally weigh 150 to 340 pounds.

http://www.theeagle.com/stories/100206/texas_20061002001.php



Animals in zoos need space

Press Packer Hannah thinks zoos are good, as long as the animals have plenty of space to move around.
"I believe that many zoos are great places.
I live near a zoo and all the animals have big enclosures and are treated well.
However I have visited other, less spacious zoos where animals are in cramped environments and look unwell.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/cbbcnews/hi/newsid_5350000/newsid_5359400/5359444.stm



Houston elephant delivers record-size calf
Shanti, the Houston Zoo's 15-year-old Asian elephant, is in good condition after a smooth delivery of a male calf early Sunday morning. The calf weighed in at 384 lbs, which is remarkably large, even by elephant standards. That's the largest elephant ever delivered in an Association of Zoos and Aquariums zoo. A typical elephant calf weighs anywhere from 150 to 340 lbs. at birth. The calf's size is attributed to the fact that Shanti was more than three weeks overdue. The zoo staff is thus far happy with the progress of the calf and its mother. Shanti's last calf, Bella, suffered from complications early in her life. Shanti rejected Bella and she had to be hand-fed by zookeepers instead of nursed by her mother. Eventually, Bella fell and broke her leg, and was subsequently euthanized after veterinarians could not repair her leg through surgery. Zoo staff said Shanti has a much different attitude towards her new calf, and they have high hopes for a continued good relationship between the two.
Shanti and the calf will likely be available for public viewing by this weekend, which should coincide nicely with the cool front we promised. Houstonist is already working on ideas for the naming contest. Details will be posted on the Houston Zoo's blog, a good site for more extensive updates on the elephants and other zoo news.

http://houstonist.com/2006/10/03/houston_elephan.php



Posted: Tuesday, October 3rd, 2006 5:19 AM HST
Sea Life Park earns accreditation
By Associated Press
HONOLULU (AP) _ The Association of Zoos and Aquariums announced Monday that it has granted accreditation to Sea Life Park.
The A-Z-A requires zoos and aquariums to become accredited in order to be members of the association.
The organization says accreditation is granted for five years.
Then the institution must undergo another rigorous investigation to ensure it meets rising industry standards.
(Copyright 2006 Associated Press. All rights reserved)

http://www.kpua.net/news.php?id=9529



Accreditation Acquired, Zoo Looks Forward
On the heels of re-accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, officials at the Great Plains Zoo are already focusing on how to keep that status for years. The zoo's AZA accreditation only lasts for five years. That's why zoo officials are already planning ahead to make sure its facilities, finances and management will meet the criteria for the next inspection team visit.
When leaders at the Great Plains Zoo announced they had re-earned national accreditation, they took time to revel in their past accomplishments. But the achievement also marks the start of another project: developing a master plan for the facility.

http://www.keloland.com/News/NewsDetail6371.cfm?Id=0,51473



Pittsburgh Zoo Introduces New Tiger Cubs - video
(KDKA) PITTSBURGH The new Amur tiger cubs at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium were taken out of their den and shown to a small group of visitors today - their first outing since they were born almost two months ago.
The cubs - Mara and Petya - are reportedly doing very well: Mara is 14 pounds 9 ounces; Petya is 14 pounds 1 ounce.
They're currently the size of small, but a male tiger can grow to 400 pounds.

http://kdka.com/local/local_story_276201750.html



When work is a zoo
BALTIMORE (Map, News) - Zookeeper Lauren Pulz gets the wart hogs, gazelles and spiral-horned kudus up and ready for the day with the enthusiasm of a soccer mom.
To the sounds of growling lions, Pulz is responsible for setting up the exhibits, feeding the African animals and cleaning their barns at the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore.
“You never know what’s going to happen,” Pulz said while giving a head rub to Frasier, a male wart hog. “I’m petting him, but he is very dangerous and could make a sudden move. I’m always aware of the animal’s normal personality so I can detect if he’s a little off.
“It’s important to be able to tell if there is anything different,” Pulz said, in case the animals need to see the vet. “For instance, it’s a big sign if one of the wart hogs, Frasier or Kumari, isn’t eating.”

http://www.examiner.com/a-323824~When_work_is_a_zoo.html



Terri Irwin to return to zoo's stage
October 03, 2006 08:05pm
Article from: AAP
STEVE Irwin's widow Terri will return to the stage at Australia Zoo by Christmas, the Crocodile Hunter's best friend says.
Wes Mannion, the zoo's director, said Mrs Irwin would once again help stage shows at the Crocoseum – the venue for live crocodile shows and one of her husband's favourite places.
"For Terri, she's really keen to spread the word about conservation and come Christmas both me and Terri will be getting in the Crocoseum and doing the shows," Mr Mannion said to the Nine Network tonight.
"We have to do that because if we didn't he'd (Irwin) be quite upset about that, I'm sure."
Irwin, 44, was killed when a stingray barb pierced his chest in a freak accident off the north Queensland coast on September 4.

http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,20519814-1702,00.html



Sprint coup for zoo
By NICK COOK
Junior World Orienteering Championships organiser Paul Prudhoe and Western Plains Zoo’s Maria Finnigan with an orienteering marker. Photo: BELINDA SOOLE.
"The sport's always been about fast-paced decision-making on the run, but now it's going to be even more exciting because there's the chance you could take a wrong turn and come face-to-face with a lion or tiger." Those were the words of Junior World Orienteering Championships marketing manager Paul Prudoe when he made the announcement that Western Plains Zoo would be the venue for the sprint leg of the orienteering championships which will be held in Dubbo in July next year. "We chose Dubbo as host city because we felt the surrounding terrain really suited the more traditional orienteering events," Mr Prudoe said. "We chose the zoo for the sprint component because we felt it would provide a truly unique challenge for the competitors. The zoo is a very different setting for the sprint event. In fact, 2007 will be the first time a World Championship event (at any level) has been held within a zoo."

http://dubbo.yourguide.com.au/detail.asp?class=news&subclass=general&story_id=514313&category=General&m=10&y=2006



Riverbanks Zoo's Rare White Alligator Dies
(Columbia) - The Riverbanks Zoo's rare white alligator has died, zoo officials announced Tuesday.
Officials say the animal died from an apparent intestinal infection.
"Throughout the past few weeks our veterinary staff has administered antibiotics to the white alligator," said Satch Krantz, the Zoo's Executive Director. "We were optimistic that he would survive and continue as he originally did while on exhibit with the other juvenile alligators."

http://www.wltx.com/news/story.aspx?storyid=42586



County guarantees zoo would get revenues from entertainment complex
By Eric Kalis
Miami-Dade County commissioners last week reaffirmed their support of a $1 billion entertainment district near the Miami MetroZoo with a measure guaranteeing that revenues from the complex would go directly to the zoo's expansion.
Commissioner Dennis Moss, a proponent of building an adventure theme park, water park and 300-room hotel next to the zoo, sponsored the measure, which passed unanimously Sept. 26. Voters will decide Nov. 7 whether to allow the county to request proposals to hire a private developer for the complex.

http://www.miamitodaynews.com/news/061005/story4.shtml



Jacksonville Zoo to Relocate Chimpanzees
By Associated Press
JACKSONVILLE, FL (AP) -- The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens will be without chimpanzees for the first time in 60 years. Zoo officials have decided to relocate the three chimps and focus on gorillas and bonobos, two other popular types of apes at the zoo. But the move likely won't happen for at least a year and a new zoo home hasn't been found for the chimps.

http://www.firstcoastnews.com/news/local/news-article.aspx?storyid=66217



Group re-accredits Emporia’s city zoo
By Scott Rochat (Contact)
Tuesday, October 3, 2006
The David Traylor Zoo of Emporia has been re-accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums.
The zoo has to pass the AZA’s muster every five years in areas ranging from animal care to public relations. The process takes about six months and is topped off with an inspection and then a hearing at the national convention.
“I knew once I got past this, I could take a breath and enjoy the first part of my employment,” said Zoo Director Steve Trebilcock, who took over the zoo just this year. “The pressure isn’t off — but it is less.”
About 210 zoos and aquariums, most of them located in North America, belong to the AZA.

http://www.emporiagazette.com/news/2006/oct/03/group_reaccredits_emporias_city_zoo/



Steve Irwin's Family To Start Back In Zoo By Christmas
Claims zoo director...
By: Lowri Williams on 10/4/2006
A friend of Steve Irwin?s and director of the
Australia
Zoo, Wes Mannion has claimed that Irwin?s widow Terri will be back continuing Steve?s work as soon as possible.
Irwin was killed last month when he was struck through the heart by a stingray?s barb, he died instantly.
Although Irwin?s wife and two young children are still mourning his loss, by
Christmas they hope to be back working in the
Zoo.
Mannion said to FemaleFirst: "Come
Christmas, both me and Terri will be getting in the Crocoseum and doing the shows. We have to do that because if we didn't Steve would be quite upset about that, I'm sure."
However, Mannion also believes that Irwin?s eight year old daughter Bindi will start back working at the
zoo when she is ready, he said: "She's her own little girl and she makes her own decisions up to a point."
"I've just been amazed at just how great everyone has been that's been coming to the
zoo.
"They're really embracing the man that he was, even though he's no longer here in person, just here in spirit."

http://www.entertainmentwise.com/news?id=23129

continued...

Pygmy whales put to death after beaching

In this photo provided by the City of North Myrtle Beach, officials with the Department of Natural Resources, marine science students from the University of North Carolina-Wilmington, and volunteers stabilize a female killer pygmy whale at 21st Avenue South in North Myrtle Beach, S.C., Wednesday, Aug. 15, 2007. Three pygmy killer whales beached themselves at North Myrtle Beach on Wednesday and were so sick they had to be put to death, officials said. It was not immediately known what had sickened the whales, which are about the size of dolphins and weigh hundreds of pounds, officials said. (AP Photo/The City of North Myrtle Beach, Brian Williamsen)

By Bruce Smith, Associated Press Writer

August 15, 2007
CHARLESTON, S.C. --Three pygmy killer whales beached themselves at North Myrtle Beach on Wednesday and were so sick they had to be put to death, officials said.
Two male whales, which are about the size of dolphins, were euthanized Wednesday morning, said Wayne McFee, of the federal Marine Mammal Stranding Network.
Workers kept a third whale, a female, alive through the morning as they searched for a fourth whale reported in the area that was thought to be her calf. The fourth was not found and the female was euthanized shortly after noon, said Brian Williamsen, a spokesman for the city of North Myrtle Beach....

Will No Cage Hold Him? Monkey Again Escapes Zoo

Oliver, a capuchin monkey, escaped from a Mississippi zoo on Monday, despite new locks.

By BRENDA GOODMAN
Published: August 15, 2007
ATLANTA, Aug. 14 — For the second time in two weeks, Oliver, a 9-year-old capuchin monkey at a Mississippi zoo, escaped his cage, and this time, his keepers said he proved to be an even more artful dodger.
“I know he wasn’t happy when we caught him the last time,” said Kirk Nemechek, manager of the Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo.
“We had a sighting this morning,” Mr. Nemechek said in a telephone interview on Tuesday. “Usually he will come to you. We tried chips, candy, Froot Loops, anything. He wasn’t ready to give up.”...

The Cruises at the Berlin Zoo

Katie Holmes & Tom Cruise Take Suri to the Berlin Zoo (click here)
By Christi HallAug 13, 2007
Tom Cruise and the fabulous Katie Holmes are keeping the absolutely adorable baby Suri busy while the family are in Berlin. Mom and dad took a bit of a break and decided to take the little one to the Berlin zoo. The family made their way around the facility for a bit before snapper caught on and then the photos were everywhere.

Katie and Tom went dark - they were both attired in all black and it was baby Suri's moment as she stands out with a splash of color in a pink top and blue pants.

Earlier mom and dad got a little time to themselves as they had a romantic dinner on Saturday. According to SAWF the couple arrived at Fior Di Pane restaurant at 9.30pm and spent over 5 hours inside leaving at 3am. Both Tom and Katie were stylishly attired in fall clothing. Katie wore a black A line skirt, a white V line collarless top with frill button front, long black scarf, a black trench coat and square toe pumps. Tom wore black trousers, with a contrasting white shirt, dark grey sweater and a beige colored trench coat.

First full-time development director coming to area zoo
8/12/2007

The Sequoia Park Zoo Foundation, the nonprofit organization that provides fundraising support for the Sequoia Park Zoo’s development, recently announced in a news release the appointment of Melinda Booth as its first full-time development director.
“With the new master plan for the zoo comes a need for a more structured and professional approach to fundraising,” said Jeff Lamoree, foundation president. “Melinda has a great track record of raising money for animal-related nonprofits and is already coming up with some great ideas. The board and I look forward to working with her to build the best zoo we possibly can.”
According to the release, among Booth’s responsibilities in this new position will be to provide support for the foundation’s Fund Development Committee, create stewardship opportunities and develop programs for special gifts, foundations, direct mail, special events, corporations, business and industry, bequests and deferred giving. On the administrative side, she is charged with training and support of volunteers, board and staff in fundraising techniques, and coordinating direct mail programs and media coverage of fundraising events and opportunities.
Booth’s last position was as development manager for The California Wolf Center in San Diego County, an education, research and conservation facility focusing on the North American gray wolf, the release stated. It added that the center promotes conservation of gray wolves and all wildlife through education, exhibition, participation in captive breeding programs and studies of captive-wild wolves.
Before joining the Wolf Center, Booth worked with Defenders of Wildlife and the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks. She holds a Master of Science degree in environmental studies from the University of Montana and a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Davis, in conservation biology and management.
“I’m delighted to be joining the Sequoia Park Zoo Foundation at this pivotal stage in its development,” Booth stated in the release. “I’ve always enjoyed wildlife and conservation issues, and the zoo’s evolution towards more conservation-related activities and exhibits really appealed to me. It’s a great opportunity and I can’t wait to get started!”
Booth can be reached at the offices of the Sequoia Park Zoo Foundation, 3414 W St., Eureka, by phone at 707-442-5649 and by e-mail at melinda@sequoiaparkzoo.net.
The mission of the Sequoia Park Zoo, according to the release, is to inspire wonder, understanding and respect for the natural world by providing fun, rewarding, educational experiences that encourage meaningful connections between animals, humans and the environment.

http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=27192



Local zoos caught in horse slaughter controversy
TACOMA, Wash. -- Two local zoos are caught in a nationwide controversy. The issue is slaughtering horses for zoo food. Woodland Park and Point Defiance zoos might be forced to look outside the United States for horse meat.
Jaya is a meat-eater. She's one of Point Defiance's two Sumatran tigers - and she eats mostly beef.
But horse meat treats are an important part of her diet. And for some other cats here horse meat is just about all they eat.
"It's a very lean choice of meat," says Point Defiance's Deputy Director John Houck, "and for those cats, we want to watch their weight and have that as an option, that's why we chose that."
But Point Defiance, Woodland Park and zoos across the country may have to go to Canada or other countries for their horse meat. That's because two of only three horse slaughterhouses in the U.S. -- both in Texas -- have shut down. The third, in DeKalb Illinois, is fighting closure in court.

http://www.komoradio.com/news/local/9161976.html



Death of rhino not Taronga Zoo's fault
Article from:
By Saffron Howden, Environment Reporter
August 15, 2007 12:00am
TARONGA Zoo staff have been cleared of any wrongdoing in the death of a pregnant rhinoceros, with the RSPCA strongly rejecting claims of cruelty and neglect among the animal's keepers.
An investigation lasting several weeks has completely exonerated staff and disproved claims - made in a front page story in The Sydney Morning Herald - that the animal's death was caused by the misdeeds of her keepers.
RSPCA welfare officers interviewed zoo staff and pored over autopsy reports before ruling there was no evidence to apportion blame to the handlers.
"There were no breaches of the legislation (protecting animals)," RSPCA chief inspector David O'Shannessy said.
"We won't be taking any action."

http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,22246455-5006009,00.html



Houston zoo welcomes baby giraffe
(8/15/07 - KTRK/HOUSTON) - There's a brand new member of the Houston Zoo family.
A baby Masai giraffe was born at 3:30pm Sunday. She weighs 109 pounds, and stands 5'9" tall. The mother is Noel and the father is Kiva.
So far the baby giraffe hasn't been named. Houstonians are invited to guess which name the keepers will choose by visiting houstonzoo.org.
"While Masai giraffes are not threatened or endangered in their native habitat, there are only 70 of them in North American zoos," says Rick Barongi, Houston Zoo Director.
Giraffe breeding at the Houston Zoo follows guidelines established by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Population Management Plan (PMP) program.
Giraffes are the tallest living terrestrial animal. The average male is about 16 feet tall and can weigh 3,000 pounds, while an average female is over 14 feet tall. The average gestation or pregnancy for Masai giraffes is 14 months.

http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/story?section=local&id=5572553



Zoo waits to see if mother elephant will accept newborn
Deborah Tetley, CanWest News Service
Published: Friday, August 10, 2007
CALGARY -- Like anxious parents, keepers at the Calgary Zoo are pacing the elephant nursery, nervously monitoring the bond between mother Maharani and her newborn calf.
They know the mother elephant's first delivery, three years ago, ended in tragedy, and they're hoping for a much different result this time around.
The 308-pound female baby is already staggering around on all fours and appears healthy - but it's still too early to celebrate, experts say.

http://www.canada.com/topics/news/national/story.html?id=a31ef222-1b50-4ced-8926-1aa001816d25&k=22997



At the zoo: Looks don't matter with the lights out
By STUART WINER
In the perpetual gloom of the Biblical Zoo's Underworld Exhibit resides a colony of naked mole-rats. If the phrase "naked mole-rat" sounds unappealing then these rodents live up to their name.
Small and hairless, these roly-poly pug-faced creatures look like leftover dough. But despite their appearance, mole-rats are full of surprises.
Naked mole-rats are found in dry areas of savannah regions near the equator such as Kenya, Somalia and Ethiopia. Serious scientific research about these rodents only began some 30 years ago and there is still much about mole-rats that remains a mystery. For instance, zoologists are not even sure how long the rats live. There are mole-rats that have been living in laboratories for over 20 years.

http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1186557407157&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull



Watch in HD
Zoo Tycoon 2: Extinct Animals
E3 2007 Trailer
Platforms:
Posted August 10, 2007 @ 8:38 pm
Its amazing what computers can teach kids these days.

http://www.gametrailers.com/player/23420.html?r=1&type=wmv



Zoo's polar bear accepted into record book
Debby -- the beloved polar bear at the Assiniboine Park Zoo -- has been entered into the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest living polar bear in the wild or captivity.
Debby, who turns 41 in December, is the second-oldest individual of all seven species of bears in recorded history.
Likely born in December, 1966, and arriving in Winnipeg from Europe as an orphaned cub in the spring of 1967, Debby spent most of the intervening years with her huge mate Skipper, who died several years ago at age 34.
Most polar bears do not survive 20 years in the wild. The pair produced six surviving offspring, and thrilled millions of Zoo visitors. A great ambassador for her species, Debby remains in excellent health and greets visitors every day of the year.
The Zoological Society of Manitoba is presenting interpretive talks on Debby on the half hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, August 18. In recognition of her achievement, Zookeepers are planning to offer Debby her favourite treats -- smoked goldeye, veggie dogs, and a fish frozen inside a block of ice. Visitors are welcome to sign a large congratulatory card for our special bear.

http://winnipegsun.com/News/Winnipeg/2007/08/10/4408129.html



Liver disease likely killed Duluth zoo's polar bear
Duluth News Tribune
Published Friday, August 10, 2007
Bubba the polar bear likely died from complications related to chronic liver disease.
According to a news release issued this afternoon by the city, a preliminary necropsy found that Bubba “was anemic and jaundiced, had extensive acute hemorrhages under his skin, had a large amount of blood in his chest cavity and a large amount of fluid in his abdomen,” Lake Superior Zoo veterinarian Louise Beyea said. “In retrospect, the symptoms Bubba showed could be explained by underlying liver disease.”
The signs of liver disease were found at the University of Minnesota, where the body of the 19-year-old bear was taken after he died Wednesday morning.
Zoo officials said they have the camera that Bubba was pictured chewing on in July. The picture was published in today’s Duluth News Tribune.
“Bubba’s death could not have been caused by chewing on a camera dropped into the exhibit in July,” Beyea added.
University pathologists are still conducting tests on the bear’s liver tissue. It will likely be several weeks about the final report on the cause of Bubba’s death is completed.

http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/articles/rss.cfm?id=47898



Betunia, giraffe at Zoo Atlanta, dies suddenly
By MARK DAVIS
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 08/10/07
Betunia the giraffe, a towering presence at Zoo Atlanta for 18 years, has died.
Workers noticed that the 23-year-old female Masai giraffe was slightly bloated early Thursday afternoon and escorted her off display. They took her inside the cavernous building she shared with another giraffe, Abu, where she died not long after the zoo closed.

http://www.ajc.com/living/content/living/stories/2007/08/10/giraffe_0811.html



KC Zoo to get $10 million overhaul
By MATT CAMPBELL
The Kansas City Star
The entrance to the Kansas City Zoo will get a $10.75 million overhaul to make it more convenient for visitors and bring animals to the front door.
“This will change the entire complexion of the zoo,” Director Randy Wisthoff said today. “It will become one of the easiest zoos in the United States to get into instead of one of the most difficult.”
The project, being financed with private donations, will reverse a design from the last zoo makeover in the mid-90s that almost everyone now agrees was flawed. That resulted in meandering pathways between the parking lots and the zoo entrance that become annoying and frustrating on the way out after a tiring visit to the zoo.
The new design will allow visitors to drive right up to the entrance and drop people off and will add more than 100 parking spaces near the entrance.

http://www.kansascity.com/news/local/story/226727.html



KC Zoo plans a more visitor-friendly entrance
By MATT CAMPBELL
The Kansas City Star
The Kansas City Zoo is spending $10.75 million to make its entrance more visitor-friendly and bring animals right up to the front door.
Reversing a design decision from the 1990s, the project will allow visitors to drive up to the entrance and drop people off, and will add more than 100 parking spaces close to the gate.
Gone will be the serpentine pathways from the parking lots that can be annoying on the way in and maddening on the way out after a tiring visit to the zoo. People have long complained about them.

http://www.kansascity.com/105/story/227640.html



Alaska Zoo postpones Maggie's move until spring
by Bianca Slota
Thursday, Aug. 9, 2007
ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- The Alaska Zoo Board of Directors says financial concerns and weather will likely keep Maggie the elephant in Alaska until spring.
The board met last night to hear recommendations from zoo staff about potential new homes for the elephant. The list of homes apparently includes a mix of five zoos, wildlife parks and animal sanctuaries.
Zoo officials won't release the names or locations of potential new homes for Maggie, but says more work needs to be done before a move can happen.

http://www.ktuu.com/Global/story.asp?S=6913403



Giraffes welcome visitors to Niabi Zoo
BY ANDREA MILLS
COMMUNITY EDITOR
amills@svnmail.com
The Niabi Zoo in Coal Valley has added three new things this summer that stand out above the rest - Twiga, Kenya and Mimi - young giraffes who made their debut July 14 in their outdoor exhibit.
Although not from Africa (Twiga came from Florida, Mimi from Omaha, Neb., and Kenya from California), they bring with them the stately grace that will remind visitors of the African plains. They're making their new home as part of Passport to Africa, where visitors will see lions, zebras and ostrich. The curious won't have to worry about craning their necks because a platform has been built to provide visitors a giraffe's-eye view of the new residents.
One of the nice things about a trip to Niabi is it's a manageable size, especially for families with small children.

http://www.saukvalley.com/articles/2007/08/11/news/local/293413075788448.txt



You little monkey! Joy at Belfast zoo as Roxy gives birth
Saturday, August 11, 2007
By Victoria O'Hara
Rare baby monkey Ripple is set to cause a stir with visitors as the latest attraction at Belfast Zoo.
The lion-tailed macaque was born on July 16, weighing only 450g.
Mother macaque Roxy will nurse her new baby for one year.
The lion-tailed macaque ranks among the rarest and most threatened primates.
There are currently only 2,500 left in the wild.
The species is classified as endangered by the IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources), due to destruction of their natural habitat.
Zoo manager, Mark Challis, was ecstatic with the new addition. "We are all really excited by our latest birth, it is great news that we are once again playing an active role in the conservation of this critically endangered species.
"The baby lion-tailed macaque will not only add to visitor's enjoyment but will also add to the conservation of this rare primate."
The lion-tailed macaque is characterised by a large grey mane and get their name from their tufted droopy tail which is similar to a lion's.
During the summer months the population in the zoo will expand even further with three pregnant giraffes, a pregnant Barbary lion and a Malayan tapir.

http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/article2854554.ece



Zoo gets a paint job with help of juvenile court
By JENNY MICHAEL
Bismarck Tribune
Black paint splattered up her arms and across her tie-dyed tank top, a teenage girl learned a valuable lesson Friday at Dakota Zoo: It's easier to stay out of trouble than to do community service.
"I don't want to do community service again," she said. "This is more work than a job."
The girl was one of 15 paint-splattered juveniles, ages 14 to 17, participating in a community service project for teens involved in juvenile court and juvenile drug court.
"It was fun but hot," the girl said.
John Grinsteiner, a judicial referee, said eight of the workers Friday were youths from the South Central Judicial District's juvenile drug court, an intensive program for teens with addiction problems on the verge of being taken out of their homes and placed in juvenile facilities.

http://www.bismarcktribune.com/articles/2007/08/11/news/local/137595.txt



Two new baby rhinos at Dehiwala Zoo
by Sajitha Prematunge
After more than two years of exchange programme negotiations with the Nagoya Higashima Zoo of Japan, the Dehiwala Zoo is now the proud home to two new baby rhinos, Kosala (5 years) and Anula (8 years) the male and female rhinos, chris tened after the male and female baby elephants sent to the Nagoya Zoo.
The rhinoceroses, that arrived in the Dehiwala Zoo recently are Black rhinoceroses, one of the very rare and highly endangered rhinoceros species, found only in countries such as South Africa, Sumatra, Java and India. Their major outstanding characteristic is the horn, which is not a horn at all.
Made out of Keratin, that make up our hair and nails, the horn has no connection with their skulls. Shy animals by nature they can be seen grazing during dawn and dusk. Rhinoceroses have big bodies with thick folding skins. They are primarily solitary, except during the mating season and are also highly territorial.

http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2007/08/12/new14.asp



The `bear' essentials of going to the zoo
By Alan Solomon, Chicago Tribune
Radisson QC Plaza
The award winning Radisson on John Deere Commons
All quality big-city zoos have lots of animals, paved pathways, strollers for rent, hot dogs to buy and stuffed critters to bring home. Many have little trains that, for a little extra, haul people around the grounds. Many have artists who will paint butterflies on little girls' faces.
We visited four Midwest favorites. Here's what we discovered.
At the Indianapolis Zoo, children and their keepers are encouraged to dip their hands, two fingers at a time, into a shallow pool and tickle the topsides of sharks -- yes, sharks, specifically, bonnet head sharks.
Any reports of eaten fingers?
"They actually have flat teeth, and they're very tiny," said onsite educator Will Bruner, who was talking about the sharks, not the kids. "If they wanted to bite, they really couldn't do anything."
What the 3-foot beasties evidently will do when patience is tested (as when abused by one undercautious tot) is skim madly on their tails across the top of the water like something very scary out of "Jurassic Park."

http://qconline.com/archives/qco/display.php?id=349857


Zoo welcomes new wide-eyed wonder
By DAN FELDNER, Staff Writer
dfeldner@minotdailynews.com
Dan Feldner/MDN
Maddie the black and white ruffed lemur stares through the bars of her enclosure Wednesday at Roosevelt Park Zoo. Maddie was shipped from Tulsa, Okla., and had to undergo a 30-day quarantine before she could join the two male lemurs at the zoo.
The Roosevelt Park Zoo has yet another fresh face to greet guests this summer — Maddie, a female, 2-year-old black and white ruffed lemur.
Becky Zahn, the large carnivore and primate curator, said Maddie arrived in Minot on July 2 from Tulsa, Okla., and had to undergo a 30-day quarantine. The outdoor lemur exhibit consists of three enclosures linked by gated walkways, and Maddie was confined to an end-enclosure where she didn’t have contact with the two male lemurs.
“Every animal that’s new, even the new lion we got, every animal goes through a 30-day quarantine just to make sure they’re in good health, don’t carry diseases and things like that,” Zahn said.

http://www.minotdailynews.com/news/articles.asp?articleID=13513



Sapporo zoo gives preserved snow to polar bears during 'midsummer snow festival'
Polar bears at Sapporo Maruyama Zoo enjoy snow during its "midsummer snow festival" on Saturday.
SAPPORO -- Snow preserved since last winter was brought to a local zoo on Saturday for its "midsummer snow festival."
About 30 tons of snow that had been frozen and preserved in the Hokkaido city of Bibai was transported to the city-run Sapporo Maruyama Zoo.
A total of 25 blocks of snow each weighing 500 kilograms were given to two polar bears. The bears -- who dislike summer heat -- appeared to be enjoying the snow. Snow blocks were also placed in a pool for seals.
An air conditioner using snow and snowmen were placed on the premises of the zoo for visitors. Some 50 lanterns made of snow were lit up in the zoo Saturday evening. (Mainichi)

http://mdn.mainichi-msn.co.jp/national/news/20070811p2a00m0na023000c.html



Windy City Perl Mongers at Lincoln Park Zoo
Taken in Chicago, Illinois (See more photos here)
41°55' 22" N, 87°38' 02" W
Windy City Perl Mongers tour the camel exhibit at the Lincoln Park Zoo (Chicago) as part of the Adopt An Animal program.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/47329375@N00/1090154093/



Briefly: A very fine zoo
A little short on big cats -- and shade -- but mini-gardens throughout add freshness, and overall the experience is excellent. No elephants; the aging pachyderms have been relocated to improved space in California, and handsome white rhinos have taken over the habitat.
The Giraffe Encounter is new, as is an Outback Adventure that puts visitors up close with kangaroos, if the animals are feeling sociable.
The Detroit Zoological Society took over from the city a year ago, and so far the system seems to be working.
Location: Woodward Avenue at 10 Mile Road in Royal Oak, just north of Detroit. Once in Detroit, exit Interstate Highway 94 at I-75, continue north to I-696, then go west two miles to Exit 16/Woodward Avenue. Follow the signs.
Price: Adults $11, kids 2-12 $7, seniors (62 and older) $9. Open all year.
Parking: $5.

http://www.centredaily.com/living/story/176962.html


Reptiles found in Saudi's luggage
Baby crocodiles were among the reptiles uncovered
A Saudi man's attempt to smuggle live reptiles out of Egypt in his hand luggage has been foiled by horrified security officers at Cairo airport.
Snakes, chameleons and baby crocodiles were found in the 22-year-old's bags as he tried to board a Saudi-bound flight.
Police had become suspicious when X-ray machines at the departure gate gave odd readings. Among the reptiles they found was a cobra, squirming to escape.
The animals were confiscated and turned over to Cairo Zoo.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/6943295.stm



Zoo goes green with recycling rally
Joseph Spector
Staff writer
(August 12, 2007) — More than 100 cars rolled through the zoo’s parking lot to drop off a whole host of electronic devices for recycling — from cell phones, to televisions, to computer monitors.
The zoo held its Go Green! Recycling Rally, the second of three planned, to raise awareness about the environment and to offer an easy way to get rid of old items that are often difficult to dump, such as computers, microwaves, even sneakers.
Zoo officials said the goal of the recycling events is to tie the importance of recycling into the benefit it can have on animals. Properly disposing of materials harmful to the environment can protect wildlife and their natural habitats, said Ryan Loysen, the zoo’s conservation education coordinator.

http://www.democratandchronicle.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070812/NEWS01/70812008/1002/NEWS



Zoo will not renew land option
By MELISSA WALKER and JASON PULLIAM
REGISTER STAFF WRITERS
August 13, 2007
The Blank Park Zoo Foundation has backed off from a land purchase that would have been tied to the zoo's proposed expansion on Des Moines' south side.
Foundation members decided last week not to renew an option to buy 62 acres south of Southridge Mall for $1.3 million.
The land, plus $5 million, would have been given to the Polk County Conservation Board in exchange for 65 acres of Fort Des Moines Park, located east of the zoo.

http://desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070813/NEWS05/708130329/1001/SPORTS08



Budapest zoo's 3 rare Kea parrots killed by wandering python
The Associated Press
Published: August 17, 2007
BUDAPEST, Hungry: A python that apparently was smuggled into the Budapest Zoo has killed three rare Kea parrots, officials said Friday.
It was unclear whether a visitor released the tiger python into the Keas' cage or whether someone released the 2-meter-long (6-feet-6-inch) snake elsewhere in the zoo and it found the cage by itself, zoo spokesman Zoltan Hanga said.
Hanga said the zoo owned several pythons, but they had implanted microchips and all had been accounted for.
The Kea is a sharp-beaked parrot native to the high country of New Zealand's South Island. It is considered a vulnerable species — an estimated 1,000-5,000 survive in the wild and another 140 in zoos.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/08/17/europe/EU-GEN-Hungary-Killed-Parrots.php



Detroit is for lovers: Frisky chimps join zoo
Santiago Esparza / The Detroit News
ROYAL OAK -- Two chimpanzees have moved to the Detroit Zoo from a zoo in Wisconsin because they have reached their mating age.
Nyani, a 16-year-old female, and Kiri, a 17-year-old male, have reached the age when chimps begin to mate, said Jim Hubing, director of the Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison, Wis. So Detroit Zoo staffers this spring brought the animals to the zoo, where they will join seven other chimps that are part of the Great Apes of the Harambee habitat.
In Wisconsin, there only are three other chimps, which cuts down on available mates, Hubing said.
The move was made as part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Chimpanzee Survival Plan, which calls for chimps to be paired off and housed at zoos where they have the best chance of reproducing or interacting with other chimps, Hubing said.

http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070817/UPDATE/708170422/1003



Elephantennial Recap and Photos
Posted at 12:04 am on August 10, 2007 by Jungle Jeanne
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo celebrated 100 years of caring for elephants on July 27, 2007 with "Elephantennial." Visitors enjoyed a day filled with elephant
activities ranging from elephant painting demonstrations to watching the elephants eat a ketchup-covered, fruit-filled cake. Kids had a chance to paint like the elephants and took home an elephant trading card commemorating the Zoo's 125th anniversary. Animal keepers answered questions about everyone's favorite pachyderms and Zoo Director Steve Taylor talked to guests about the Zoo's plans for its next big exhibit, African Elephant Crossing.
-recap by Amanda Majewski
The elephants enjoy a cake made of ice, filled with fruit and veggies and topped with ketchup and popcorn - an elephant delicacy!

http://www.clemetzoo.com/zblog/default.asp?Display=38



Oooh Baby! Flamingo Chick
Posted by maryschwalm on August 11th, 2007

http://maryschwalm.wordpress.com/2007/08/11/oooh-baby-flamingo-chick/



Juvenile community service project is to paint the zoo...
Aug 11 2007 12:33PM
Associated Press
Juvenile community service project is to paint the zoo
Bismarck, N.D. (AP) Some Bismarck teenagers say it's easier to stay out of trouble than to to do community service.
They had their work cut out for them, Painting fences and railings at the city zoo yesterday.
Fifteen of them, ages 14 to 17, did the painting as part of a community service project for teens involved in juvenile court.
Zoo director Terry Lincoln says the youngsters were a big help.
And supervisor John Grinsteiner says he hopes they learn that crimes such as vandalism involve a lot of clean-up work.
He says that when they visit the zoo later on in life, they can say they helped paint the fences.
(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 08-11-07 1226CDT

http://www.kxmc.com/News/151854.asp



Two new baby rhinos at Dehiwala Zoo
by Sajitha Prematunge
After more than two years of exchange programme negotiations with the Nagoya Higashima Zoo of Japan, the Dehiwala Zoo is now the proud home to two new baby rhinos, Kosala (5 years) and Anula (8 years) the male and female rhinos, chris tened after the male and female baby elephants sent to the Nagoya Zoo.

http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2007/08/12/new14.asp



Hungry Bear
Posted at 9:58 pm August 12, 2007 by Suzanne Hall
After fasting for nine days since the birth, Bai Yun has begun to eat small quantities of bamboo. She first came out to eat about
3:30 p.m. today, and only for a few brief minutes. In the five hours that followed, she came out for bamboo feedings four additional times, for a combined total of about 16 minutes spent feeding. The keeper staff has fortified her sun room with 2 kilograms (4.4 pounds) of fresh bamboo so that she can continue to fill her belly overnight.

http://www.sandiegozoo.org/wordpress/default/hungry-bear/



Zoo fills its recycling bins
Staff collects electronic items from more than 100 motorists
Joseph Spector
Staff writer
(August 13, 2007) — Sunday was a good day to be at the Seneca Park Zoo, and not just to see the animals.
More than 100 cars rolled through the zoo's parking lot to drop off a whole host of electronic devices for recycling — from cell phones to televisions to computer monitors.
The zoo held its Go Green! Recycling Rally, the second of three planned to raise awareness about the environment and to offer an easy way to get rid of old items that are often difficult to dump, such as computers, microwaves, even sneakers.
"I've been looking for a way to get rid of it," said John Domm, 26, who was dropping off computer equipment. "A lot of times you have to pay to have these things taken away."

http://www.democratandchronicle.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070813/NEWS01/708130325/1002/NEWS



Micke Grove Zoo celebrates 50th
By The Record
August 13, 2007 6:00 AM
LODI -- Micke Grove Zoo held its 50th anniversary party Sunday at the zoo and park near Lodi, where William Micke built the zoo in 1957. "This is all about Mr. and Mrs. Micke," San Joaquin County parks administrator Dave Beadles told a small crowd at the zoo, where an elaborately decorated cake and a statue unveiling took place to celebrate.
Zoo manager Ken Nieland said the zoo will only improve in its next 50 years: Officials are planning to expand the zoo, a move that could help regain accreditation that was lost last year.
That the zoo turned 50 this year was not on the mind of Debora Villalvazo, 9. At a pool that houses sea lions - one of the zoo's first exhibits - the Stockton girl leaned over the railing and barked. No response from the sea lions, she said. Still, she said the pool is her favorite place at the zoo.

http://www.recordnet.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070813/A_NEWS/708130324



Safari bags funds for zoo
By Joyce M. Johnson Special to the Beacon Journal
Published on Monday, Aug 13, 2007
The dog days of August were filled with wild cats, penguins and even an albino Burmese python named Mango at the second annual Summer Safari at the Akron Zoo on Thursday evening.
Proceeds from the event benefit the zoo's education and wildlife conservation efforts. ''This is a chance for people to see the zoo in different settings and help raise critical money for endangered species,'' organizer David Barnhardt said.
About 250 guests, including Dana Saporito and her sister, Samantha Saporito, enjoyed a gourmet tasting of heavy hors d'oeuvres and desserts prepared by area chefs.
''I like seeing the people and the animals interact together,'' Matt Sturges said. Other attendees included Tom and Karen Stevens, Jenna and Scott Lietke, Joanne and Jim Davey and Glenn Nevels.
Kurt Laubinger was festive for the occasion with a stuffed snake around his neck and a safari hat. His wife, Mary Lou Laubinger, also dressed the part. Patsy Fortney attended with son Brian Fortney. Guests Bob Stark and his wife, Dawn Stark, said they visit the zoo 10 to 12 times a year.
''This brings people closer to the things we enjoy every day,'' Chief Executive Pat Simmons said.
The evening also featured a silent auction and raffle. Raffle prizes included a five-day western Caribbean cruise for two or a chance to be a zookeeper for a day. Shawn Brehob came from the Columbus Zoo to help with the event.
''I love celebrating the Akron Zoo from its humble beginnings to where it is now,'' Brenda Hairston said.
The dog days of August were filled with wild cats, penguins and even an albino Burmese python named Mango at the second annual Summer Safari at the Akron Zoo on Thursday evening.
Proceeds from the event benefit the zoo's education and wildlife conservation efforts. ''This is a chance for people to see the zoo in different settings and help raise critical money for endangered species,'' organizer David Barnhardt said.
About 250 guests, including Dana Saporito and her sister, Samantha Saporito, enjoyed a gourmet tasting of heavy hors d'oeuvres and desserts prepared by area chefs.

http://www.ohio.com/lifestyle/9119861.html



Former zoo remains untouched, sale to town held up
HUDSON, N.H. (AP) — It's been several years since the town agreed to buy the former Benson's Wild Animal Farm, but the state-owned site remains untouched while its historic buildings crumble.
The town's plan to buy the 165-acre parcel for recreation and open space has been held up by a lawsuit against a contractor accused of dumping asbestos on the property, environmental cleanup and debate over how to restore the buildings.
The former zoo closed in 1987. The state paid $4 million for it but later agreed to sell it to the town. The main sticking point in the negotiations has been how to restore the buildings on the site, including a nearly 200-year-old barn.
Information from: The Telegraph, http://www.nashuatelegraph.com

http://www.fosters.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070813/NEWS0201/70813030



Under the canopy of the Topeka Zoo's Tropical Rain Forest
Story by Dana Davis (Contact)
11:52 a.m. Monday, August 13, 2007
Bats and birds fly overhead. Reptiles move about. More than 100 animals and more than 150 species of plants complete the Topeka Zoo's Tropical Rain Forest.
People can stroll under a canopy of trees. Those trees are vital to making the ecosystem work.
The tree cover traps some of the moisture in and creates niches for some of the animals to live, like sloths and some of the birds.

http://www.49abcnews.com/news/2007/aug/13/under_canopy_topeka_zoos_tropical_rain_forest/



West Nile At The Zoo
AUG 13 2007 11:40 AM
The Assinboine Park Zoo has been keeping a close watch for the west nile virus this summer.
Zoo co-ordinator Dr. Gord Glover tells CJOB, there's been one confirmed case in zoo animals.vHe says a Snowy Owl did not survive:
(play audio)
Glover says they're getting better at recognizing signs of west nile virus every year. He says they now take preventative action by vaccinating some animals or even keeping those more susceptible, indoors.
CJOB's Lorne Edwards reporting.

http://www.cjob.com/news/index.aspx?src=loc&mc=local&rem=72205


Texas zoo elephant dies at age 49
ABILENE, Texas: A stressed-out elephant that had been treated with the anti-anxiety drug Xanax died Monday morning at age 49 in a Texas zoo, according to a media report.
Tanzy was believed to have been the second oldest African elephant in North America, the Abilene Reporter-News reported. An elephant's average lifespan is 33 years.
In 2005 after zookeepers at the Abilene zoo noticed that Tanzy was grumpy and subdued, they started mixing Xanax into her feed twice a day, along with some ibuprofen to ease her arthritis-related discomfort.
Zoo officials told the newspaper that the therapy was effective and seemed to improve Tanzy's quality of life.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/08/13/america/NA-GEN-US-Elephant-Dies.php



Winning name for zoo's baby giraffe announced
10:54AM Tuesday August 14, 2007
Ntombi pictured just after she was born. Photo / Paul Estcourt
Auckland Zoo's three-week-old female giraffe has been named Ntombi.
The zoo held a public competition to name her and received close to 1000 entries from all over New Zealand.
"We wanted a name of cultural significance to symbolise her heritage.
"The name Ntombi stood out for a number of reasons, it is of Zulu origin, which is a native African language and it means 'girl' or 'lady' - something we are very pleased she is," said Auckland Zoo Pridelands team leader, Michael Batty.
Several people submitted the name but the winner of the naming competition was six-year-old Jade Lusty from Papakura, Auckland.
Jade loves giraffes and is very excited about going behind the scenes at the zoo to meet Ntombi, her prize for winning the competition, the zoo said.
Ntombi is the first female giraffe born at Auckland Zoo in 15 years.
She will stay with mum Kay in Auckland until she is about one. But she will then move to another zoo within the Australasian region to strengthen the genetic pool for breeding.
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- NZ HERALD STAFF

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/1/story.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10457638



RSPCA finds no wrongdoing in zoo deaths
Posted Tue Aug 14, 2007 9:44am AEST
The RSPCA will not be taking any action against two New South Wales zoos over the deaths of an African elephant and pregnant rhinoceros.
The Greens had asked the organisation to investigate the deaths at Sydney's Taronga Zoo and Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo, in central western NSW, in June.
The zoos say both animals died from gut-related problems.
The chief inspector of the RSPCA, David O'Shannessy, says no evidence of cruelty was found in the zoo's veterinarian records and keeping standards.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/08/14/2004264.htm



Former Zoo President Takes Over As Head Of Tourism Calgary
Aug, 13 2007 - 12:40 PM
CALGARY/AM770CHQR - Tourism Calgary has a new boss -- the former head of the Calgary Zoo.
Although not a complete surprise, as it was leaked in a newspaper report Saturday, Alex Graham was officially announced Monday as the new president and CEO of Tourism Calgary.
Amid a room full of local business people, politicians, and a throng of cameras, Graham donned the official white hat and said he was looking forward to his new chapter.
Earlier this year, Graham had a rather abrupt and unexplained departure as the president and CEO of the Calgary Zoo after eight years at the helm, but Graham was reluctant to talk about that Monday.
He says he has no immediate plans for the organization, but instead will sit down with staff next month to discuss long-term goals.
Joe Fardell quit as head of Tourism Calgary earlier this year to pursue other opportunities.

http://www.770chqr.com/news/news_local.cfm?cat=7428218912&rem=72214&red=80121823aPBIny&wids=410&gi=1&gm=news_local.cfm



Zoo hires CEO's husband to run new Somerset conservation center
The Associated Press
PITTSBURGH - The Pittsburgh Zoo has hired the National Aviary's former executive director to manage its 724-acre conservation center in Somerset County.
Dayton Baker, whose wife, Barbara, is the zoo's president and chief executive, runs Wildlife Land Management, a consulting firm, with which the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium is negotiating a one-year deal.
The zoo bought a former ranch about 60 miles southeast of Pittsburgh for its International Conservation Center to breed African elephants. Other endangered animals, such as Grevy's zebras and African wild dogs, could also be moved there.
Zoo board chairman Gary Claus said the board had ensured that Baker's hiring was "aboveboard" and the 15-member executive committee voted unanimously to hire him. The zoo's chief operating officer, Frank Cartieri, said Baker was chosen from a pool of 35 applicants.
Baker will be supervised by Cartieri, as the zoo's nepotism policy bars supervision by someone related to the employee, spokeswoman Connie George said. "Barbara was not involved in any of this," George said.
Baker left the Pittsburgh-based National Aviary earlier this year after 15 years.

http://www.philly.com/philly/wires/ap/news/state/pennsylvania/20070813_ap_zoohiresceoshusbandtorunnewsomersetconservationcenter.html



Given name evokes chocolate for zoo baby born a Bean
THE NEWS TRIBUNE
Published: August 14th, 2007 01:00 AM
POINT DEFIANCE ZOO & AQUARIUM
Tacoma’s new zoo baby, an anoa, was born July 4 and just christened Coco.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium’s baby anoa has a name.
The lowland anoa, born July 4 at the zoo, will be known as Coco Bean, the zoo said Friday in announcing the results of its naming contest.
Bean is the anoas’ family name – Coco’s mother is Baby Bean and her father is Pinto Bean.

http://www.thenewstribune.com/news/local/story/132424.html



Okapi Calf’s Big Adventure, Day One
Posted at 10:39 am August 15, 2007 by John Michel
On August 9, Safarani and her calf, Sukari, made their way out of the maternity yard where they had been since the youngster was born on July 10 (see previous blog, Okapi Calf To See a Bigger World!). Safarani was most anxious to get back out into the larger exhibit space; we realized after watching her for a little while after the move that it was because she loves to eat all the plantings around the exhibit, something she’s not had access to for a couple of months. Now we know who’s been mowing through those plantings!

http://www.sandiegozoo.org/wordpress/default/okapi-calfs-big-adventure-day-one/



Little hippo keeps zoo staff guessing
T.Lalith Singh
HYDERABAD: If staff and officials at the Nehru Zoological Park appear a tad flummoxed these days, they have every reason to be. For the Hippopotamus couple here, Parvathi (18) and Vinay (24), has been blessed with offspring. But the gender of the newborn is yet to be ascertained.

http://www.hindu.com/2007/08/15/stories/2007081559540200.htm



Children's zoo in foot-and-mouth scare as new exclusion zones set up
JOHN INNES
A THEME park zoo was last night at the centre of one of two new food-and-mouth disease control zones amid concern that measures in England to contain the outbreak have failed.
Tests are being carried out on a sick sheep at Chessington World of Adventures, near Epsom, Surrey. It is outside the 10km surveillance zone imposed in the area earlier this month.

http://news.scotsman.com/index.cfm?id=1286892007



Hyena Exhibit gets face lift
Our Hyena came out on exhibit today to discover new grass, plants and a new structure made out of an old tree. The Zookeepers have been working behind the scenes for over two months on the structure and other features.

http://sacramentozoo.blogspot.com/2007/08/hyena-exhibit-gets-facelift.html



Smuggled crocodiles overwhelm Cairo zoo
By Agence France Presse (AFP)
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
CAIRO: A sudden influx of hundreds of baby crocodiles seized while being smuggled out of Cairo airport has left a zoo in the Egyptian capital struggling to deal with the tiny but rapidly growing reptiles. "We've never seen anything like this before," says Ragy Toma, who heads the government department in charge of dealing with seized contraband animals and was standing in front of the 265 infant crocodiles now housed at Giza Zoo.
They were brought here after customs officials on Sunday found them, along with snakes and chameleons, in the luggage of a young Saudi man who said they were destined for a Saudi "scientific institute."
The man was released, and the results of what the airport vet called "the largest smuggling attempt of Nile crocodiles in the whole of aviation history" were brought to stay in this large basin in a glass-fronted cage.

http://www.dailystar.com.lb/article.asp?edition_id=10&categ_id=4&article_id=84537



Hialeah flamingos go to Oklahoma and beyond
The flamingos at the Hialeah Race Track are world famous. And though the track hasn't had a horse race since 2001, the 300 flamingos that once flew over the track still live inside its 1 1/8-mile racing oval. Now some of the offspring of the Hialeah birds have hatched at the Oklahoma City Zoo. And they're living at more than a dozen wildlife parks acrtoss the country. The first flock of birds came to Hialeah Park in the 1920s from the Caribbean but they soon flew back. Park officials gathered up a new flock in the 1930s and they stayed.

http://blogs.tampabay.com/breakingnews/2007/08/hialeah-flaming.html

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