Friday, March 09, 2007

The station stands at an elevation of 2,835 meters (9,301 ft) on interior Antarctica's nearly featureless ice sheet

 
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This is just ANOTHER element to the mystery of Human Induced Global Warming. It is now multi-dimensional in my opinon. Vigilence continues.

 
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Nico, Antarctica at 1:30 PM GMT

Elevation: 9629 ft / 2935 m

Temperature: -71 °F / -57 °C

Wind: 8 mph / 13 km/h / from the North

Wind Gust: -

Pressure: in / hPa (Rising)



Vostok, Antarctica at 6:00 PM VOST

Elevation: 11220 ft / 3420 m

Temperature :: -62 °F / -52 °C

Conditions :: Clear

Humidity: 40%

Dew Point: -69 °F / -56 °C

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

Wind Gust: -

Pressure: in / hPa (Falling)

Visibility: 12.0 miles / 20.0 kilometers


Base Jubany, Antarctica at 3:29 PM GMT


Elevation: 13 ft / 4 m

Temperature :: 36 °F / 2 °C

Conditions :: Scattered Clouds

Humidity: 59%

Dew Point: 27 °F / -3 °C

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

Wind Gust: -

Pressure: 29.45 in / 997 hPa (Rising)

Visibility: 12.0 miles / 20.0 kilometers

Clouds: Few 1476 ft / 450 m

Scattered Clouds 19685 ft / 6000 m
(Above Ground Level)
 
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March 9, 2007

1323 gmt

Southern Hemisphere

The 'heat mass' is becoming a permanent reality over the Antarctica Blue Ice.

Click on for 12 hour infrared loop - the image below is a visible image

 
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Noted in the North Atlantic is a huge vortex with it's center just southwest of Greenland. The heat noted on satelllite over the Greenland Ice is from that source.

If indeed the upper limits of the troposphere is 'storing/maintaining/building' a heat capacity due to Human Induced Global Warming and the levels are now being detected at the top of the Antarctica Blue Ice, which in the year 2007 is about 2.3 miles minimally or 3.7 kilometers, then the 'direct' detection of that heat mass would not be noted over the Greenland Ice in direct contact. The length of time for that to consistently be evident will determine the degree the upper troposphere has capacity to 'store' the excess heat from the planet under carbon dioxide.

In realizing the Lower Troposphere is measured at a distance from Earth's surface of 8 kilometers or about 5 miles and the Upper Troposphere is measured at an additional 5 kilometers (3 miles) or 13 kilometers (8 miles) the 'understanding' of the temporal dimension of carbon dioxide production in relation to the increasing storage of heat in the troposphere would depend on whether the heat goes beyond the lower troposphere, which I believe it does; the capacity of the troposphere as it increases in altitude in gaseous density to absorb heat; and the temporal element when the saturation began. My guess as to the beginning of the saturation would be some time approximately 100 years ago when carbon dioxide levels began to increase with human industrialization.

The equation to the answer as to the amount of time it will take to completely fill the lower troposphere with an 'unnatural' heat load is rather detailed, but, doable with information from balloons sent into the troposphere. The increasing variable in this temporal measurement is the increase in emissions of greenhouse gases which would refine that 'time limit.'

Guesstimate? A few years with the current abuse of humans in the First World, primarily the USA. This is a separate entity to the dynamics of a hot planet from the already hot surface of Earth and the effects on ice formations such as Greenland.
 
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March 9, 2007

1323 gmt

Northern Hemisphere Satellite

I don't really expect to see the same drastic heat mass on the North American satellite except where the Greenland Ice Sheet is involved. The Greenland Ice is at least 2 meters in thickness but has lost considerable mass in the past decade. But, still today it is at least 2 kilometers or about 1.2/1.3 miles in elevation sea level. The current heat in this satellite compared to the one below is centering more or less around the ice structures of the Arctic Ocean and the Greenland as it migrates from the Equator. In examining the same satellite picture of March 5, 2007 in comparison when I first noted the heat intrusion of Antarctica, the Greenland Ice had a dense heat mass over it. It dissipated somewhat but then that is to be expected as the ice melts and give relief to the hotter air mass. But, that dissipation from Monday is beginning to return. Different from Antarctica I believe Greenland may not be getting it's heat mass from the upper troposphere but from the vortices of the North Atlantic. An offshore source rather than tropospheric source.

The satellite views of Antarctica today could easily be noted to be a combination of both offshore and tropospheric. The heat density over the Blue Ice is not strickly offshore sources, it is definately, in my opinion from altitudes above the top of the ice continent.

Thursday, March 08, 2007

 
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March 8, 2007

1303 gmt

THIS IS THE CLINCHER in some ways.

The Northern Hemispheric satellites have also been showing a trend of heating. If one compares all the other northern hemispheric satellites of the past week there is a definate increase in 'accumulation' of upper tropospheric heat.

That is significant to realize this is a global phenomena based in 'heat' saturation of the entire troposphere and not just the southern hemisphere. Earth indiscriminately accumulates 'gaseous' atmosphere and all it's characteristics, including heat, equitably. It's physics. Just that simple.

The oddly interesting aspect of this discovery is the fact we are entering Earth's equinox with the sun. Therefore, to find this occurrence 'globally' when Sol's radiation is traversing Earth equitably is to realize the enormity of Human Induced Global Warming as a global concern.

This directly translates into a political dialogue that includes all peoples, all nations to the concern of drastically reducing Greenhouse Gases. This is an issue of survival, not economy. Those that value economy over survival are highly immoral people with no regard or comprehension of what is important to life.

The USA must take leadership and also take the most drastic steps to reduce it's contribution to carbon dioxide emissions. If we do not do this, survival of most species on Earth will be in question.

I am anticipating a 'relief' to Antarctica, at least I am hoping for one, when Sol's radiation transitions to the Northern Hemisphere. I don't necessarily expect that to be the case.

The weather at Glacier Bay National Park is:

Temperature :: 36 °F / 2 °C

Conditions :: Partly Cloudy

Humidity :: 75%

Dew Point :: 28 °F / -2 °C

Wind :: 12 mph / 18 km/h / 5.1 m/s from the East

Wind Gust :: 17 mph / 28 km/h / 7.7 m/s

Pressure :: 29.24 in / 990 hPa

Windchill :: 28 °F / -2 °C

Visibility :: 10.0 miles / 16.1 kilometers

UV :: 0 out of 16

Clouds :: Few 2000 ft / 609 m
(Above Ground Level)

Carbon dioxide, no different than most gases, greenhouse or otherwise is densest in the troposphere

 
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Carbon dioxide has a strong impact on climate, but water vapour determines weather conditions.

Troposphere (Surface air of Earth. It's biotic atmosphere.)

It is in this first layer that the atmosphere, in contact with the Earth, is the warmest. The Earth's surface captures the Sun's rays and becomes a radiating body that warms the air, setting it in motion by simple thermodynamic action.

This produces large-scale rising air currents that warm the upper levels, while moving gigantic volumes of air horizontally. These movements are what we call weather systems.

As a result, most weather activity occurs in this lowermost layer of the atmosphere, the great variety of phenomena that affect us from day to day all around the world.

The intense concentration of water vapour, associated with strong rising air currents, leads to clouds and precipitation, thunderstorms, hurricanes and tornadoes.

Just below the tropopause, the shear caused by the strong contrast between the troposphere and stratosphere generate the very powerful winds called jet streams, and gives them their sometimes complex structures.

These narrow and powerful streams of air, which originate only in the north of the Northern Hemisphere, are so influential that they are part of what is called the general circulation, that is the trajectory of the Earth's air masses.

Tropopause (Upper Troposphere)

The first thermal boundary. The tropopause marks the end of the biosphere and is the coldest part of the lower atmosphere.

The average altitude of this layer is about 11 km (36,000 feet). Above the poles, it is about 8 km (26,000 feet) from the surface, while at the equator is at about 18 km (59,000 feet).

The tropopause shifts according to temperature and is highest in summer. It changes altitude abruptly near the jet streams.

Click to animate

 
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The 'heat intrusion' that exists over the Blue Ice of Antarctica is persistent. The reason is because it is coming down in density from above.

I once believed the 'heat' of Earth generated by Human Induced Global Warming would seek relief to the outside atmospheric layers of Earth in that the vortices carried the heat to the highest layers of Earth's troposphere. The vortices 'live' far higher than any weather pattern. They are hydrologic in nature. The vortices don't exist without water vapor.

However, knowing there are fewer and fewer gas molecules in the stratosphere, that 'theory/hope' might prove to be false. In other words, without sufficient gas molecules, primarily water vapor in my opinion, the dissipation of the heat of Human Induced Global Warming to the 'outer atmosphere' of Earth is impossible. I believe that is what I am witnessing now.

I believe this is an early warning to the 'trend' of heating of Earth. Carbon dioxide with it's accumulation in the troposphere has not only increased the temperature of the air surrounding Earth where the biotic environment exists, it has trapped it there.

As a result, the heat is saturating the troposphere from the top down. The additional heat people 'feel' from year to year. The increase in hurricane activity. The disruption of the biotic nature of Earth leading to species demise AT THE SURFACE is due to the reflective properties and radiant properties of land masses.

However, that is not all the story.

What is being neglected in estimating the demise of the biotic nature of Earth is the fact the radiant heat from the surface of Earth will eventually be met with the accumulated heat of the upper tropopshere. When that occurs there will be no relief from the heat and Earth's biotic surface will be too hostile to support life. If I were an Antarctica Scientist right now, I'd be sending weather balloons, capable of measuring temperatures and gas concentrations, high into the troposphere to record the change in 'average' temperatures at those altitudes. Quite frankly, I am sure they are doing exactly that, especially considering the vast expedition of science and scientists currently taking over Antarctica.

To discuss briefly the satellite picture below. There is only one place where a heat accumulation is occuring. Over the 3 mile high Blue Ice. There is grossly absent from that satellite any contributing 'offshore' sources of heat. There is some minor movement off southern South America, but, by in large considering the 'build up' of heat since the beginning of the week when I first noted it, there is not enough 'offshore' sources to justify the increase over the Blue Ice. It is coming in accumulation from above.

In other words, the 'first detections' of upper tropospheric heat accumulations are now being noted in temperature satellites.

I'll discuss this further on the satellite picture of the Northern Hemisphere but I want to record some temperatures first.

The coldest conditions in Antarctica today are:

Vostok with a noted warming trend of -50 degrees celcius. 35% humidity. Winds 12 mph / 18 kmph at 6:00 PM VOST (Vostok time) under Clear conditions.

The ‘temperate’ areas are increasing in number. Those areas are increasing drastically in temperature as well, but, I need to be careful here. The highest temperatures are in majority on the Peninsula. While that is unfortunate and wrong, it doesn’t speak to the phenomena being noted here. The peninsula temperatures are important to realize the ice shelves, at sea level are more threatened than not, but, that is another issue. Antarctica has many and varied what might be called ‘micro-environments’ but that isn’t exactly accurate either, because each ‘unique’ area of Antarctica still contributes to the biotic balance of the continent. So the ‘sectioned’ environments such as the Ross Ice Shelf vs. The Peninsula vs. the Blue Ice is important, however, Antarctica is ice. Frozen water. In many ways, what affects one section of Antarctica environment impacts all others.

So, I believe it will be better to settle on a few 'inland' stations of monitoring rather than 'any' station with the lowest temperature. But, to make that point I list the warmest station today as:

Base Esperanza with a temperature of 9 degree Celcius, a humidity of 24% and winds of 29 mph / 46 km/h at 12:00 PM GMT with Overcast Conditions.

As to 'other' inland conditions, I debated including several locations, but, that might prove to be confusing, so, I'll just make the note of my stalworth for years now, Scott Base. I'll just list it daily. See below:
 
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March 8, 2007

1314 gmt

The Southern Hemisphere. It accumulation of heat over Antarctica caught my attention a few days ago. At first it made little sense as up to that point the heat intrusions on to the ice continent had always come from other 'surface' areas of Earth. In other words, Antarctica never received heat intrusions from any other sources except offshore. It never produced any of it's own because there is not the climate for that.

I had always kept in the back of my mind that one day if there was a continued heating of Earth, the upper troposphere could be like a reservoir for all that heat. I tended NOT to consider that a viable option as I thought the vortices so hard at moving air around Earth would also provide a source of dissipation to the stratosphere. (click on) Evidently, as it appears to me, that is not happening.

What I do believe is happening is discussed above in three entries.

Global warming putting polar bears at risk, Inslee says

 
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"We cannot talk about this species without talking about global warming and its effect on the Arctic," Rep. Jay Inslee, D- Bainbridge Island, said in remarks prepared for a public hearing Monday night.

"Today, polar bears, a beloved American icon, are at risk," said Inslee, a member of the House Natural Resources Committee and a leading advocate of aggressive action on global warming.

A marine mammal, the polar bear is dependent on sea ice for survival. Yet as a result of climate change, "these magnificent creatures — which can swim at least 50 miles — have drowned and starved to death," Inslee said.

Memos Tell Officials How to Discuss Climate

 
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I hesitated to put this entry on the blog because the other focus on the heat accumulating at the poles would be viewed by some as merely politics. It isn't. The heat accumlation is of real concern and brand new to the monitoring that takes place. It is just circumstantial this is occurring at the same time there is debate regarding Human Induced Global Warming in Alaska.

I don't really consider it a debate either. The citizens involved in the exploitation of oil in Alaska are very unhappy about the prospects of the Threatened/Endangered status of Polar Bears. There is no debate, the science is very clear and has been established since the beginning of time. Polar Bears live on sea ice. There isn't anything else to say.

When the sea ice disappears these animals disappear. The most hideous question that came out of the public hearings regarding the classification of Threatened/Endangered to the name Polar Bear, a marine mammal, went like this : "What if saving the sea ice doesn't save the Polar Bear ?"

Huh?

Where does that level of moronity come from? Do those speaking to allow the demise of Polar Bears to benefit oil exploitation actually think they add dignity to their argument by making those kind of statements? I am here to tell you they do not. They only prove how desperate their measures are.

Why would saving the sea ice NOT save the Polar Bears? The only reason that would occur is if the Polar Bears were genetically defective and unable to reproduce. We know that is not true. These animals are starving (see below). Starving is NOT genetically based and it would be a waste of precious scientific assets to even explore that idea. If there were genetic issues of viability with Polar Bears, scientists would have 'gone there' a long time ago. The picture below is profound. It shows a Polar Bear within it's habitat starving to death, losing all it's body mass/fat that protects it from the frigid waters of the Arctic Ocean. This Polar Bear, whom is probably dead since this picture, is standing where? On land? No. On sea ice.

The debate against the classification of Polar Bears as threatened/endangered is hideous and all those presenting any of it need to be ashamed for their desperation. Alaska has known for a long time that Human Induced Global Warming was an issue on Earth and particularly with the USA as the largest emitter of the deadly carbon dioxide levels now present in the troposphere. The USA alone has caused the struggle for survival currently being conducted on Earth of every species including humans. The USA is directly responsible for this catastrophic destruction of Earth's biota. It is responsible by emitting the largest and growing carbon dioxide load to the planet and it is responsible for 'outsourcing/exporting' carbon dioxide polluting economies.

The listing of Polar Bears as threatened or endangered is scientifically correct and needed for the survival of this species. There are areas of the habitat where Polar Bears are actually endangered and some areas where they are threatened. I believe the lesser option has been taken to begin a process that will hopefully roll back the most endangered of the habitat. They really should be listed as endangered for the 'habitat areas' where that is true.

It is time for the people of the USA to take ownership for it's very bad habits.
 
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A starving Polar Bear in the Arctic Ocean. There are no Polar Bears anywhere else in the world. Polar Bears are unique to Arctic Ocean, no different than penguins are unique to Antarctica. There is no viable debate regarding the listing of Polar Bears as Threatened/Endangered.

The USA needs a climate policy to ensure the survival of this species and it needs to be forthcoming.

Money is the root of all evil it would seem.

The darnest thing is, the next great American economy lies ahead in the challenge and conversion of the energy and transportation sectors. It's just that 'old money' doesn't want to 'give it up.' As we have witnessed in Texas with the Governor's misguided proposal for coal fired plants, the wealthy have a hard time being weaned from their mother's milk.

Pity.

Polar Bears come before the destruction of a planet's biotic nature.

Wednesday, March 07, 2007

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
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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)
 
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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)

Tuesday, March 06, 2007

Find your favorite penguin in the multiple Penguin Cams around Antarctica

 


March 6, 2007

Penguin Cam

According to the German Station in Anarctica:

Penguins: the first eggs were laid at 4 november 2006

Enjoy the penguins. Protect their habitat. Stop Human Induced Global Warming.

The American Station in Antarctica had it's webcam decommissioned in December, 2005 (click on)

The new American Station webcam (click on) doesn't send any signal that this laptop pick ups. No surprise there, Bush simply hates those that love penguins in Antarctica.
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March 6, 2007

The Australian Station, Mawson, Antarctica
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March 6, 2007


The British Research Station, Halley, Antarctica
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