Zoos
Marineland petitioners wrong, says activist
1.00pm Wednesday September 20, 2006
By Rachel Pinder
Animal activist group World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) has lambasted the 13,588 people who signed a petition to replace the iconic dolphins at Napier's Marineland.
WSPA spokeswoman Bridget Vercoe says people should instead be taking a stand against Japan's annual slaughter of dolphins and small whales.
"This method of hunting dolphins involves driving pods of dolphins into bays and coves to be cruelly and violently butchered. The meat from these dolphins is then sold in local markets for human consumption.
"Some dolphins driven into these coves are spared the violent death, but unfortunately an equally cruel fate awaits them - a lifetime in captivity.
"Unscrupulous dolphinariums financially support the hunts by buying live dolphins - usually young females - from the fishermen to be used for captive display.
"These animals witness the screaming slaughter of their close family group in a sea turned red with blood, before being transported off to live the rest of their lives confined in pools as entertainment.
"So many dolphins die in captivity and the breeding programmes can't keep up, so dolphinariums frequently have to purchase dolphins caught from the wild," she said.
Miss Vercoe claimed that every year, between the months of October and March, Japan killed more than 20,000 dolphins through its drive hunts.
She added that between October 2004 and March 2005, 1165 dolphins were slaughtered in drive fisheries.
And between October 2003 and March 2004, 78 dolphins were captured during the Japanese drive hunts and sold to dolphinariums around the world.
"Sadly, if facilities like Napier's Marineland insist on keeping captive dolphins, many more dolphins will continue to be killed, caught and sold in the Japanese drive hunts.
"Replacing Shona, the latest dolphin to die at Napier Marineland, with a captive bred dolphin is not the answer. It only means there will be one less captive dolphin available to other dolphinariums, meaning more dolphins will eventually be caught.
"The Japanese claim this hunt must go ahead as the dolphins eat too many fish and the fishermen are simply eradicating competition. The Japanese Government and fishermen say dolphin hunting is part of Japanese culture and support the activity."
- HAWKE'S BAY TODAY
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/story.cfm?c_id=1&ObjectID=10402150
Heart-rending farewell to Irwin
UPDATED 12.05pm Wednesday September 20, 2006
Of all the tributes being delivered at the memorial service to crocodile hunter Steve Irwin today, it was perhaps the one read out by Steve's daughter Bindi which proved the most touching to the huge crowd at Australia Zoo.
Bindi spoke of how he was her hero and she hopes his work will continue.
Bindi, 8, read a tribute to her father, saying he had wanted to change the world so that "everyone loved wildlife as much as he did".
In a strong, clear voice, she told the crowd that he had adored his family and had taken them everywhere on his adventures and they would miss him every day.
"My Daddy was my hero -- he was always there for me when I needed him.
"He listened to me and taught me so many things but most of all he was fun.
"I know that Daddy had an important job. He was working to change the world so everyone would love wildlife like he did.
"He built a hospital to help animals and he bought lots of land to give animals a safe place to live.
"He took me and my brother and my mum with him all the time. We filmed together, caught crocodiles together and loved being in the bush together.
"I don't want Daddy's passion to ever end.
"I want to help endangered wildlife just like he did.
"I have the best Daddy in the whole world and I will miss him every day.
"When I see a crocodile I will always think of him and I know that Daddy made this zoo so everyone could come and learn to love all the animals.
"Daddy made this place his whole life and now it's our turn to help Daddy."
After she finished, a minute-long standing ovation resounded around the precincts of Australia Zoo.
Thousands of people have gathered at the Zoo to farewell Steve Irwin, 44, who was killed in a freak accident when he was speared in the chest by a stingray while filming a documentary off north Queensland.
They heard Kiwi-born Australian actor Russell Crowe, star of The Gladiator and A Beautiful Mind, deliver from New York a video-taped tribute to his "mate".
Crowe spoke of how Steve Irwin's death has affected millions around the world.
'Your passing has suspended reality for all of us," Crowe told the crowds.
"It was way too soon and completely unfair on all accounts.
"I know as humble as you always were you would still be pleased to know that the world sends its love and people all over this planet have been grieving.
"We have all lost a friend, we have lost a champion and we are going to take some time to adjust to that."
As many as 300 million people are thought to be tuned in to televisions worldwide for the service in the Australia Zoo Crocoseum on the Sunshine Coast.
The estimated 5000 people there gave a standing ovation to Irwin's wife Terri and and his children Bindi and Bob and other family members.
The service will be viewed by an estimated 300 million fans worldwide.
In another taped tribute CNN host Larry King spoke of how he had been elevated in the eyes of his two young sons by interviewing Irwin.
He said he had interviewed presidents, monarchs, rock stars and sportsmen and women.
"But he made me a hero in the eyes of his sons."
They had watched every interview they could of the crocodile hunter, whose television shows made him a hero in north America, Europe and Australasia.
In a brief address, Australian Prime Minister John Howard said Irwin had touched many Australians because of his genuineness and zest for life.
"My fellow Australians, we gather in this special place that Steve created to celebrate the life of a remarkable man and remarkable Australian.
"Steve Irwin touched the hearts of Australians and touched the hearts of millions around the world in a very special way.
"He did that because he had that quality of being genuine, of being authentic, of being unconditional and having a great zest for life and throughout his all-too-short life he demonstrated a love for the two things that ought to matter more to all of us than anything else -- his love of his family and his love of his country.
"In everything he did he was direct, he was genuine and oh so Australian and that is what we loved about him."
Irwin's producer and friend John Stainton said Irwin had changed his life forever.
"From the time we first met we clicked. The khaki-clad wildlife warrior and the city slicker became the best of friends over 20 odd years, and they were odd."
Irwin had been fearless behind the camera and a professional in front of it.
"You could always rely on Steve to get the best shot and the dangerous ones at that."
"But in front of the camera Steve was the ultimate professional."
Academy-award winning American actor Kevin Costner said in a taped tribute to the crowd gathered at Beerwah, Queensland, many of them wearing khaki outfits in tribute to the conservationist, that Irwin had been fearless - and not just in front of wild animals.
"He was fearless because he let us see who he was. That's brave in our society," said Costner, the Hollwyood star of Dances with Wolves, The Bodyguard and Field of Dreams.
He said being so open risked people mocking you.
"But Steve was not afraid of that."
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/story.cfm?c_id=2&ObjectID=10402143
Steve Irwin : WildLife Warrior
Steve Irwin was a great Australian Ambassador, Crowd Drawer and definitely the best Croc Hunter the world ever saw. This article is a tribute to Steve on behalf of the gay community of Australia
Steve Irwin was a great Australian Ambassador, Crowd Drawer and definitely the best Croc Hunter the world ever saw. He will be truly missed, but remember Steve Irwin isn't dead no-one ever truly dies unless they are forgotten and Steve, we all know he won't be forgotten. We all knew Steve as the loveable aussie larakin, the image that international countries perceived as truly australian but do we really know what he did for Australia? He did a lot of amazing things in his lifetime no doubt about that, but this just may be the best thing he ever did.
http://www.queerplanet.com.au/moxie/news/international/25-09-2006-2.shtml
Zoo prepares for Irwin memorial
Final preparations are being made for the public memorial service for the "Crocodile Hunter", Steve Irwin.
The high-profile conservationist was struck in the chest by a stingray barb while diving off the north Queensland coast earlier this month.
The ceremony on Wednesday morning will be held at the family's Australia Zoo at Beerwah on the Sunshine Coast.
Friend and event organiser John Stainton says it will be an emotional day for Irwin's widow Terri and children, Bindi and Bob.
"Terri will be strong as ever," he said.
"I'm hoping tomorrow that it's not too stressful for her because just seeing Steve on the screen and hearing the people say the things they've said they're going to affect her really badly.
"I feel for her tomorrow, I think it's going to be a very stressful and traumatic hour for her."
About 5,000 people, including Prime Minister John Howard and Queensland Premier Peter Beattie, will attend the ceremony.
Tens of thousands more are expected to watch on screens throughout Australia, while millions are expected to tune in worldwide.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/200609/s1744828.htm
Russell Crowe wants to play Steve Irwin
1.00pm Monday September 25, 2006
Oscar-winning New Zealand-born actor Russell Crowe wants to play Steve Irwin in a film based on the life of the late Crocodile Hunter.
The multi-millionaire actor, who now calls Australia his home, has repeatedly spoken of his affection for his friend Irwin after he was tragically killed, aged just 44, by a stingray on the Great Barrier Reef.
Crowe is reportedly in talks with Universal Studios about making a biopic, according to a Hollywood industry magazine, In Touch Weekly.
Sydney-based Crowe, 42, told the magazine he is "desperate" to be involved with the movie project.
The Gladiator and Insider star and owner of the South Sydney Rabbitohs league team, speaking on videotape at Irwin's memorial service, said: "We've all lost a friend, we've lost a champion, and we're going to take some time to adjust to that."
Meanwhile, the widow of the Crocodile Hunter has spoken publicly for the first time since Steve Irwin's death.
Terri Irwin says she is a long way from coming to terms with what has happened.
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/6/story.cfm?c_id=6&objectid=10402857
Arctic seal's long journey comes to a sad end
By Gareth McGrath
Staff Writer
gareth.mcgrath@starnewsonline.com
A wayward ice seal found stranded on Wrightsville Beach last week was put to death Tuesday evening at the Virginia Aquarium.
The move was ordered by the Virginia state veterinarian after the hooded seal, estimated to be younger than 18 months old, bit an aquarium staff member over the weekend.
The animal will now be tested for rabies, although the fatal neurological disease is very rare in seals. The only known method of rabies testing is an examination of brain tissue.
While not the fate anyone envisioned when the seal was taken to Virginia for rehabilitation, officials with the marine mammal stranding networks in both Virginia and North Carolina said they whole-heartedly supported the decision.
"The most important thing is that we have to put human health and safety first, and this is a very wise and judicious decision," said Ann Pabst, a marine biologist with the University of North Carolina Wilmington and member of the state's stranding team.
"This is just an unfortunate incident and the kind of thing that can happen to any person who is doing rehabilitation with wild animals."
Susan Barco, the Virginia Aquarium's stranding response coordinator, said the incident had left a somber atmosphere around her facility.
But she said everyone understood why the decision was made.
"Although there's a low risk of the animal having rabies, there's no doubt that this is the right thing to do," Barco said.
"The staffer and all of us feel terrible. But it is the right decision."
Ricky Langley, a medical epidemiologist with the N.C. Department of Health, said killing wild animals after a bite incident isn't unusual.
He said that while domestic and agricultural animals are sometimes quarantined, wild animals ranging from bats to coyotes are almost always euthanized because an animal can have rabies and not exhibit signs.
"I don't know any that aren't put down, and unfortunately that's the only way we can test," Langley said of a brain exam.
Treatment for a potential rabies bite can be long and painful, and Barco said the seal would have been put down even if the staffer had agreed to go through the series of shots.
But what made Tuesday's action tough to swallow was that Bald Bill - so named due to the seal molting its hair and alleged similarity to UNCW research assistant Bill McLellan, the state's marine mammal stranding coordinator - seemed to be on the path to recovery.
The seal was eating on his own and showing a feisty attitude, which included biting an X-ray machine power cord as well as a staffer.
Although Bald Bill had ingested a lot of sand and shells while on the beach at Wrightsville, that also didn't appear to be slowing his recovery.
The hooded seal had prompted a rescue attempt by local stranding officials last Friday morning because it had wandered so far out of its normal habitat.
The seals, which rely on Arctic pack ice for habitat, don't normally venture too far south of the Canadian Maritime provinces.
But Bald Bill was just one of several hooded seals that have been found stranded well outside their normal range this year, including a pair that were rescued in Florida on Sunday.
Pabst said the seal's death won't be in vain.
"It will definitely continue to help us learn more about the species and potentially offer us unique insight into what's going on with these animals this year," she said.
While speculation has ranged from global warming to overfishing as reasons for the seals' wandering tendencies this summer, Pabst said researchers haven't come up with a smoking gun.
Barco also said Bald Bill's fate would prompt her office to be more pro-active with the state veterinarian's office about adopting new policies for dealing with rehabbing marine mammals, including possibly a pre-rabies application for staffers.
But both researchers said those benefits would do little to soothe the sting for those who had invested so much in the seal's recovery.
"We're going to have a bunch of sad people tomorrow," Pabst said late Tuesday afternoon.
Gareth McGrath: 343-2384
gareth.mcgrath@starnewsonline.com
http://www.wilmingtonstar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060920/NEWS/609200494
Seal's next stop: landfill
Rabies results expected today
By Veronica Gonzalez
Staff Writer
veronica.gonzalez@starnewsonline.com
The lethal injection would be administered at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday.
The crime? Biting the mammal who feeds it.
Before that, he would eat his last meal - herring - after surviving on seashells and sand - quite a shift from his seafood diet.
Then, the whiskered, doe-eyed beast dubbed Bald Bill - an Arctic seal - would make his last journey … to a Virginia landfill.
His brain is being tested for rabies.
Samples of his organs are being tested for other diseases and to find out why one of his lungs was bleeding and how a bruise appeared between two of his ribs.
In Wilmington, people reacted with a mix of sadness and outrage Wednesday to Bald Bill's demise.
"It's a shame they had to put it to sleep," said Louise McDonald, the 74-year-old owner of a shepherd/chow mix named Addie. "I love animals."
The seal was euthanized at the aquarium in Virginia Beach where he was taken for rehabilitation after being stranded at Wrightsville Beach early Friday morning.
"We want to learn as much as we can both from the animal and from the whole experience," said Susan Barco, the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center's stranding response coordinator.
The seal was euthanized after biting an employee who was trying to throw a towel over his head to restrain him so a tube could be placed into his mouth to hydrate him.
In the process, Bald Bill chewed through the towel and the worker's latex glove, leaving her with three puncture wounds. She received 11 stitches.
"This particular animal was very aggressive," Barco said. "Most hooded seals, I would say, are the most belligerent. … Part of it is how the animal is feeling. It could be that the bruise made him sore."
The decision was difficult, but necessary, Barco said.
"We have to be careful," Barco said. "We have to protect our staff."
Workers aren't given pre-exposure rabies vaccinations.
Because of Bald Bill, the aquarium will study whether that's something they need to start doing and whether there are other methods to hydrate wild animals.
The Virginia health department's rabies results are expected to be available today.
If they prove positive, the worker who was bitten as well as other people who came in contact with Bald Bill's fluids may need to be treated.
"If the animal were positive, we would look hard at who had handled the animal and think long and hard about what the best thing would be," Barco said.
A necropsy, or animal autopsy, revealed bruising to two of the seal's left ribs and bleeding in his lungs.
Theories on why the seal ended up in North Carolina center around global warming.
The wayward seal belongs as far south as the Canadian Maritime provinces, not North Carolina's waters.
After being stranded here, the seal ate sand and shells to stay alive.
But Wilmington residents formed an alternate, albeit unscientific, theory.
"How'd it get to Wrightsville Beach? 'Cause people are so stupid they probably had it for a pet. … and then threw it out in the ocean," said Beverly Johnson, who sat on a bench waiting for a bus after a doctor's appointment.
"People do that all the time. It's so sad. The poor little animal suffered."
Veronica Gonzalez: 343-2008
veronica.gonzalez@starnewsonline.com
http://www.wilmingtonstar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060921/NEWS/609210361
Panicked whale vanishes as storms close in
Thursday July 6, 2006
By Anne Beston
A humpback whale entangled in craypot lines thrashed around for four hours trying to free itself before slowly swimming on up the coast.
The Department of Conservation's ranger at Kaikoura, Mike Morrissey, said the animal would have panicked once entangled and done everything it could to get free.
"They're very sensitive to anything on their skin, if you even touch one it will react," he said.
The adult whale had now disappeared, as stormy weather closed in yesterday around the Kaikoura coast where it was last seen.
"Whether it's gone east or west we don't know. It could be unseen for weeks but then pop up."
A team based at Kaikoura spent four hours in inflatable boats trying to disentangle the whale on Sunday, without success.
A search for it the next day was also unsuccessful.
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/location/story.cfm?l_id=2&ObjectID=10389990
Niabi Zoo awarded accreditation, visitors could benefit
Sep 25, 2006 05:53 AM EDT
COAL VALLEY, Illinois - Niabi Zoo is now an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
The zoo found out about the AZA honor at a Tampa, Florida convention this weekend. The five-year accreditation can bring with it new grant money, an animal sharing program with other elite zoos, and free admission for members at other accredited zoos.
"Zoos and aquariums in North America are continually evolving and reaffirming their commitment to animal care, professionalism, ethics, conservation, and education," said Association of Zoos and Aquariums president Jim Maddy in a press release. "We are very pleased to grant accrediation to Niabi Zoo."
The zoo has spent thousands of dollars improving exhibits, building an animal clinic, and upgrading the grounds to gain the accreditation. Every five years the zoo must undergo a new series of inspections to renew its accrediation.
The process includes an initial application, inspections by experts, an extensive written report to the Accreditation Committee, and a formal hearing before the commission.
http://www.wqad.com/Global/story.asp?S=5452103&nav=1sW7
Event helps 600 pets find homes
Web-posted Sep 25, 2006
By DAVE GROVES
Of The Oakland Press
ROYAL OAK - Hundreds of Metropolitan Detroit households welcomed new additions to their families this weekend - all after stopping for a visit at the Detroit Zoo. On Saturday and Sunday, the Michigan Humane Society collaborated with zoo representatives and 26 area animal welfare organizations to host the sixth annual Meet Your Best Friend at the Zoo - the nation's largest dog and cat adoption event.
"We are delighted to have found good, loving and supportive homes for nearly 600 of these lovely animals," said Jan Cantle, marketing programs manager for the Michigan Humane Society. "We think it is just phenomenal."
Cantle noted that total of 591 adoptions was down slightly from the counts at previous events, but not too dramatically considering the gloomy skies and occasional downpours that likely dampened turnout. After meeting any number of furry orphans in tents outside the zoo and spending a little time to get to know their favorites, adopters paid relatively nominal adoption fees to pair up with friends who have been sterilized and received age-appropriate shots, medical exams and behavior checks.
http://www.theoaklandpress.com/stories/092506/loc_2006092534.shtml
Local zoo under fire
Sep, 25 2006 - 5:00 AM
CALEDONIA (AM900 CHML) - The Killman Zoo in Caledonia is once again being criticized by the World Society for the Protection of Animals.
The group has filed a complaint about the zoo with the province.
The animal rights group says the animals are in cages the size of a single-car garage, which provides little room for exercise.
The group also said the cages are littered with feces and that animals, who are social and usually live with others, are being housed alone.
Owner Mark Killman denies there are problems.
He says his facility was inspected by the local Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in August and "everything was fine."
http://www.900chml.com/news/news_local.cfm?cat=7428109912&rem=48292&red=80110923aPBIny&wids=410&gi=1&gm=news_local.cfm
Boy Or Girl? New Panda Cub To Get Check Up
POSTED: 6:24 am EDT September 25, 2006
ATLANTA -- The world will not have to wait much longer to find out the gender of the newest addition to Zoo Atlanta's panda family.
Zoo keepers say they should be able to have enough alone time with the cub in the next week to do a thorough examination, which will reveal the sex of the 19-day-old baby.
The mother, Lun Lun, has begun leaving her cub more frequently to eat bamboo in a room adjacent to where the baby is.
Zoo spokeswoman Susan Elliott says they're building up to the point where Lun Lun's keepers can do a check on the baby.
The nine-year-old Lun Lun gave birth September 6 after a record 35-hour labor. It's the fifth giant panda born at a U.S. zoo in the last six years.
The cub is being kept from the public until it turns 100 days old, when, according to tradition, there will be a naming ceremony. Until then, panda fans have been keeping up with the cub on the zoo's online panda cam.
http://www.wsbtv.com/news/9926345/detail.html
Zoo given one year to fix problems
By Marques Harper
The Mill Mountain Zoo was given a year-long extension on its accreditation request to fix a series of on-going problems involving its finances and exhibits, according to a panel from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
During a 45-minute hearing in Tampa, Fla., on Sunday, the AZA committee tabled its decision to accredit the zoo, with one committee member telling Mill Mountain officials the "clock is ticking," said the zoo’s director Sean Greene in a phone interview on Monday.
The zoo will be reviewed again next fall at the AZA’s conference in Philadelphia, and that’s when a final decision will be given. Last year, the AZA granted the zoo an initial one-year grace period after Beth Poff, the long-time zoo director, resigned.
http://www.roanoke.com/news/breaking/wb/84279
Go Hog Wild for the Zoo Raises $70,000.00
Syracuse, NY-The inaugural "Go Hog Wild for the Zoo" fundraiser resulted in a little over $70,000.00 raised for the Rosamond Gifford Zoo. The three-month promotion and raffle of a customized locally fabricated motorcycle by County Line Choppers, culminating in a block party catered by the Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, made this first time fundraiser a success. Additional sponsors were T.J. Sheehan and the Zeller Corporation. Zoo Director Chuck Doyle was very encouraged by the large turn-out at the September 17th block party on Willow Street. "The thousands of people who attended the party and purchased raffle tickets not only had a great time but became more aware of the zoo and its mission." Doyle said.
More than three thousand people attended the block party outside of the Dinosaur Bar-B-Que. Fred Giarrusso of Syracuse had the lucky ticket, winning the custom fabricated motorcycle, valued at $40,000.00 built by Pat Briggs of County Line Choppers. The winning ticket was purchased by Fred's three sons, Dan, John and Jim in his honor. "We can't believe we won.we bought only one ticket at the Dinosaur the day of the event. " Jim Giarrusso of Syracuse said. The Giarrusso family was overwhelmed by the artistry of the customized motorcycle calling it "awesome".
http://bvilledailynews.com/index.php/bville/home_page/headlines/go_hog_wild_for_the_zoo_raises_70_000_00
Zoo reaccredited
The Little Rock Zoo has announced it's been reaccredited for another five years. News release on the jump.
ZOO NEWS RELEASE
The Little Rock Zoo is proud to announce it will maintain accreditation for another five years from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
The Little Rock Zoo was granted accreditation today by a twelve-person accreditation commission of AZA. Accreditation hearings are held every five years for AZA member institutions. The Little Rock Zoo was granted accreditation in 2001 but was required to go through the entire process again in 2006 to maintain its accreditation.
Earlier this year, the Zoo was required to submit all formal documents and records outlining Zoo policies and procedures for animal care, safety, and conservation as well as policies covering staff safety, guest services, and future development plans for the Zoo.
In July of this year, the Zoo was inspected by a three-person team from AZA selected by the accreditation commission to be the “eyes and ears” of the accreditation commission. The visiting inspection team was complimentary of the Little Rock Zoo.
http://www.arktimes.com/blogs/arkansasblog/2006/09/zoo_reaccredited.aspx
Quality of life index
By Wire services
Published September 25, 2006
3 Number of zoos and aquariums in Hillsborough County - Busch Gardens, Lowry Park Zoo and the Florida Aquarium - accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, which opens its annual conference today in Tampa.
16 Number of AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums in Florida.
210 Number of AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums nationwide.
735,173 Number of animals housed in AZA zoos and aquariums in 2005.
339,195 Number of fish housed in AZA zoos and aquariums in 2005, more than any other type of animal.
143-million Number of visitors to AZA institutions each year.
33,300 Number of workers employed by AZA institutions.
72,000 Number of volunteers at AZA institutions.
4.5-million Number of hours of work these volunteers devote each year to zoo and aquarium work.
$237-million Amount zoos and aquariums donated to research and conservation in 2005.
$561-million Amount zoos and aquariums spent in 2005 on construction, such as new classrooms and veterinary care facilities.
40 Percentage of zoo and aquarium visitors who believe those institutions play an important role in education.
http://www.sptimes.com/2006/09/25/Worldandnation/Quality_of_life_index.shtml
Tourism Biz Sees Boost at Oregon Coast Aquarium
(Newport, Oregon) - The Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport is reporting very positive visitor numbers, with attendance continuing to run high well past Labor Day.
“We are up 2 percent for September and about 11 percent for the summer - both are versus last year,” said Aquarium President Dale Schmidt. “We were concerned at the beginning of the summer that the gas prices may dampen our business, but that has not occurred. We have had a great summer thanks to the opening of our Claws exhibit, the addition of the Western Snowy Plover Exhibit, events such as our Labor Day Classic Car Show, and an expanded marketing campaign.”
Other statistics released by the Aquarium reveal additional reasons for increased attendance figures. Two other surveys just released this week, the Oregon Coast Aquarium Visitor Survey and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) three-year research project, showed positive public perception about zoos and aquariums.
http://www.beachconnection.net/news/ecoaq_0906_25034.htm
Rare chameleons eye a brighter future at zoo
John Stapleton
MUM is dead, dad is locked in a cage and only four of the youngsters are there to carry on the line.
Sydney's Taronga Zoo has unveiled the latest additions to its spring baby boom: bright-green veiled chameleons.
Taronga took charge of a breeding pair of veiled chameleons, which are native to the oases across the deserts of Yemen and Saudi Arabia, in 2004.
The female laid eight eggs at the zoo six months ago but died shortly afterwards. Four of the eggs hatched last month, and the youngsters were unveiled to the public yesterday.
They have already doubled in size to 5cm in length, living on a diet of day-old crickets. "They eat all day," said reptile manager Peter Harlow.
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,20443466-30417,00.html
Providence zoo plans major expansion
September 19, 2006
PROVIDENCE, R.I. --Roger Williams Park Zoo is launching a $35 million renovation that will expand a polar bear exhibit and create a North America trail and a children's zoo, park authorities said.
Zoo Director Jack Mulvena said the goal of the five-year project is to have a more user-friendly zoo and increase the number of visitors to one of Rhode Island's most popular attractions.
Attendance has declined to about 650,000 patrons annually since hitting a record of 770,000 visitors in 1997.
"If we don't invest wisely over the next five to 10 years, we face the possibility of becoming obsolete," Mulvena said.
One goal is to bring visitors closer to the animals. The project includes a deck where people can get an eye-to-eye view of giraffes and elephants.
Work has already begun to expand the living space of three female elephants, which the zoo plans to breed.
One major part of the renovation is transforming one of the oldest parts of the zoo into a trail that immerses visitors in North American ecosystems. The centerpiece will be an expanded polar bear exhibit nine times bigger than an old one.
Providence officials must seek voter approval in November to borrow $11 million for the project and use proceeds from a previously approved $4 million bond. Zoo officials say they also plan to fundraise $20 million.
http://www.boston.com/news/local/rhode_island/articles/2006/09/19/providence_zoo_plans_major_expansion/
Scientists: Make invasive carp zoo feed
By JIM SALTER Associated Press Writer
© 2006 The Associated Press
ST. LOUIS — Voracious carp that can literally throw themselves right into boats and pose a major ecological threat to Midwestern rivers and lakes could someday be a meal at the local zoo.
For years, boaters and fishermen on many Midwestern rivers have battled the Asian carp, brought to the U.S. by private fish farmers 30 years ago.
The high-jumping fish can be so dangerous that Missouri Department of Conservation staff wear head gear for protection while motoring on fast-moving boats. Some have protective netting around the driver area and across the bow.
There's little profit for commercial fishermen in harvesting the fish. But the St. Louis Zoo may have a partial answer to that problem, as a team of researchers seeks to create a carp product to feed to animals.
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/science/4199481.html
Zoo Safari Challenge makes South Africa 'possible' as a top destination
20/09/2006
On Tuesday, agents, wholesalers and operators alike gathered at Sydney’s Taronga Zoo to be immersed in all things South African. It was an event that allowed those in the travel industry to gather more knowledge of the area in order to be more able to tell their clients about how they can “Experience South Africa”.
The 100 travel agents, 4 South African operators and 7 wholesalers were told that a ‘surprise’ that awaited them at the zoo. As the sun was setting over Sydney Harbour, it was revealed that South African Tourism was sending everyone on a scavenger hunt, or more artfully termed, ‘Zoo Safari Challenge’ through the world-famous zoological park.
It involved ten randomly picked teams to perform activities and gather information designated around the park. Activities ranged from pretending to be animals to searching for the South African operators dotted around the park. Operators such as African Anthology, MIX, Sun International and Cape Town Routes Unlimited took part in the ‘Zoo Safari Challenge’ as ‘sites’ for the groups to discover.
http://www.etravelblackboard.com/printerfriendly.asp?id=56167
Smithsonian National Zoo Exhibit To Open in October
Exhibit Will Feature Sloth Bears And Giant Pandas
WASHINGTON -- The Fujifilm Giant Panda Habitat and Asia Trail at the Smithsonian's National Zoo opens to the public on Oct. 17, according to zoo officials.
Over the next few weeks, National Zoo staff are helping the animals adjust to their new environments.
One of the animals featured in the exhibit is Balavat, a sloth bear cub born on Jan. 9, 2006
In addition to sloth bears and giant pandas, the new exhibit will also feature fishing cats, clouded leopards, Asian small-clawed otters, red pandas, and Japanese giant salamanders.
http://www.nbc4.com/news/9886446/detail.html
'Murphy,' N.C. Zoo's weather-predicting groundhog, dies suddenly
ASHEBORO, N.C. The furry ambassador of the North Carolina Zoo has died. "Murphy" was a groundhog who visited schools and events across the state, as well as predicting the return of spring on Groundhog Day.
Zoo officials say Murphy suddenly became ill and died on Sunday. More tests are needed to determine exactly what happened.
Murphy just two months old when he was found by a roadside and brought to the zoo's wildlife rehabilitation center in 2002. The staff there discovered he was unafraid of people, which meant he couldn't survive in the wild, so they put him on the zoo payroll.
http://www.fox21.com/Global/story.asp?S=5429662&nav=2KPp
Necropsy Results Released on Erie Zoo's Polar Bear
The final findings have been released into what killed Alcor, the Erie polar bear who died following surgery to repair a badly broken leg. A necropsy performed at the Bolton Center outside Philadelphia where the surgery took place cited a post anesthetic death due to unknown causes; hyperthermia suspected. The report explains that hyperthermia is a condition where the body produces or absorbs more heat than it is able to dissipate, similar to heat stroke. It can be a concern with anesthetic surgery on any animals, including dogs and cats, but is more of a concern with large animals such as polar bears. With a refrigerated truck, ice baths, and even a cooled operating room, Erie Zoo spokesman Scott Mitchell is convinced that humans did everything possible to save Alcor. And he says the death is not in vain, because veterinary surgeons will be better prepared next time.
http://www.35wsee.com/news2a.cfm?more=9259&category=1&news=fullstory
Panda bites man, man bites panda back at Beijing zoo
BEIJING A drunken Chinese tourist bit a panda at the Beijing Zoo after the animal attacked him when he jumped into the enclosure and tried to hug it, state media said Wednesday.
Zhang Xinyan had drunk four pitchers of beer at a restaurant before "stumbling to the zoo" nearby and stopping off at the pen holding a sleeping 6-year-old male panda, Gu Gu, on Tuesday, the Beijing Morning Post said.
"He felt a sudden urge to touch the panda with his hand" and jumped over a waist-high railing down into the enclosure, the newspaper said. "When he got closer and was undiscovered, he reached out to hug it."
Startled, Gu Gu bit Zhang in the right leg, it said. Zhang, a 35-year-old migrant laborer from central Henan province, got angry and kicked the panda, who then bit his other leg. A tussle ensued, the paper said.
"I bit the fellow in the back," Zhang was quoted as saying in the newspaper. "Its skin was quite thick."
http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2006/09/20/asia/AS_ODD_China_Man_Bites_Panda.php
Zoo in northern India sets up old age home for dying lions
The Associated Press
Published: September 20, 2006
NEW DELHI Zookeepers in north India are watching mournfully as nearly two dozen lions slowly die after a breeding program left many cats sick, a wildlife official said Wednesday.
The program, which began in the late 1980s at the Chhatbir Zoo, tried to crossbreed Asiatic and African lions. It was discontinued in 2002 after many of the nearly 80 lions bred were struck by a mysterious disease aggravated by inbreeding and a weakened gene pool, said Kuldip Kumar, Punjab state's conservator of forests and wildlife.
The Chhatbir Zoo, near the city of Chandigarh, is in Punjab state.
When the program ended, all of the male lions were given vasectomies to prevent further breeding, Kumar said.
It will take about six years for the remaining 22 lions bred through the program to die of natural causes, he said.
Zoo authorities have decided to launch a new captive breeding project using "pure Asiatic lion stock from other zoos in the country but only after the last of the earlier crop of lions have been phased out," he said.
The zoo has recently built an enclosed area for the oldest and most infirm of the lions, so they are not attacked by the more robust cats.
"At any time the zoo has around four to five lions that are too old and weak to compete with the younger more aggressive lions. This enclosure for them separates them from the younger lot," Kumar said.
The lions are fed boneless meat and kept away from the zoo's immensely popular lion safari area, which is spread over 15 hectares (37 acres), he said.
Wildlife officials had originally hoped the hybrid cats could be introduced into the wild in an effort to bolster India's endangered wild lion population.
"But we decided to stop breeding them after the lions were struck by a mysterious disease and some 30 of them died in 1999 and 2000," Kumar said.
Since Indian wildlife laws prevent killing animals, a cull of the aging cats has been ruled out. Meanwhile, zoo authorities were trying to make life a little bit more comfortable for the beasts.
Wildlife experts say rampant poaching is driving the Asiatic lion to extinction, especially in the Gir forests in western India, the last wild refuge of the big cats.
The last lion census conducted in the Gir forests in 2000 put the number of Asiatic lions at 320. However, the animals' numbers have further dwindled due to poaching, open wells that act as death traps and human encroachment on the lions' habitat.
Lions are poached for their pelts and claws, both of which command a huge price in the illegal wildlife trade.
http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2006/09/20/asia/AS_GEN_India_Asiatic_Lions.php
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo looks for new home for baby gorilla
posted by: Sara Gandy Web Producer
Created: 9/20/2006 6:42 AM MST - Updated: 9/20/2006 6:42 AM MST
COLORADO SPRINGS (AP) - The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is looking for a new home and surrogate mother for a gorilla whose own mother rejected him.
Zoo employees and volunteers have been caring for seven-month-old Umande, but he will need a parent until he's about three or four years old.
Zoo officials say other female gorillas at the zoo are also refusing to look after Umande, and he hasn't bonded with his father.
The zoo plans to send Umande to another zoo in a surrogacy program. That zoo hasn't been chosen yet.
http://www.9news.com/acm_news.aspx?OSGNAME=KUSA&IKOBJECTID=cb3f6158-0abe-421a-019e-8435d08f3539&TEMPLATEID=0c76dce6-ac1f-02d8-0047-c589c01ca7bf
Children's Zoo hosts Worldwide Day of Play
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
THE SAGINAW NEWS
The Children's Zoo at Celebration Square in Saginaw is one of several sites in the state and around the country to host a Worldwide Day of Play on Saturday, Sept. 30.
Activities from noon to 4 p.m. will feature interactive exercises and activities inspired by the animals in the zoo, 1730 S. Washington.
Youngsters will hop like kangaroos, learn why swimming like the penguins is great exercise and hear about the healthy fruits and vegetables that monkeys eat.
http://www.mlive.com/news/sanews/index.ssf?/base/news-20/1158758501135730.xml&coll=9
Day after vaccination, two white tigers die in city zoo
Three-yr-olds Sourav and Dia were fine yesterday; another vaccinated tiger critical; zoo officials are waiting for the postmortem report
Express News Service
Chandigargh, September 20: The Chatbir Zoo lost its two white tigers this morning within a span of few hours. The tigers had been vaccinated last evening, said sources in the zoo. One more tiger, which had been vaccinated yesterday, is in a critical condition.
The male, Sourav, was found dead when the cage was opened in the morning. The female, Dia, died at 10.30 am, said the zoo officials. Both tigers were around 3 years old.
http://cities.expressindia.com/fullstory.php?newsid=202149
Rare tigers could boost Zoo attendance
Memphis Business Journal - September 20, 2006
by Andy Ashby
Staff writer
The Memphis Zoo's new inhabitants could raise the awe factor, and attendance figures, at the 100-year-old facility.
The zoo's Cat Country exhibit will begin displaying a female white Bengal tiger cub, Orissa, and two other Bengal tiger cubs, Kumari and Naryan, on Saturday.
All three cubs are about 6 months old. Orissa is from a private breeder, while Kumari and Naryan came from the Texas Zoo in Victoria, Texas.
The Zoo had temporary exhibits of white tigers in 1988 and 2000. White tigers are Bengal tigers with white fur, blue eyes and chocolate-colored stripes.
Bengal tigers are between 8-9 feet long and weigh between 300-500 pounds. They are endangered.
The Memphis Zoo is home to giant pandas Ya Ya and Le Le and has exhibits such as Primate Canyon, Animals of the Night and the Northwest Passage.
The zoo drew 810,291 people in 2004 and 761,930 in 2005. So far in 2006, there have been 824,705 visitors to the zoo, with more possibly coming to see the new additions.
"We think zoo visitors will love seeing these beautiful tiger cubs," said spokesperson Julie Dodson. "This has been a busy year with the opening of the Northwest Passage in March and the 100th anniversary celebration. The cubs are just a new reason for people to come out and enjoy a great day at the zoo."
http://memphis.bizjournals.com/memphis/stories/2006/09/18/daily28.html?jst=b_ln_hl
Oregon Zoo Releases Threatened Butterflies On Oregon Coast
PORTLAND, Oregon - The Oregon Zoo has been rearing endangered Oregon silverspot butterflies in its conservation lab, and has released a total of 22 butterfly pupae and 18 larvae at the 280-acre Cascade Head Preserve, north of Lincoln City. The zoo hopes to stabilize the declining population. This is the eighth year the zoo has been involved in this conservation project.
http://www.medfordnews.com/articles/index.cfm?artOID=332574&cp=10997
County funding for zoo exhibit in question
Quick action sought on rain forest plans
By PHIL FAIRBANKS
News Staff Reporter
9/22/2006
The Buffalo Zoo's urgent request for $4 million ran head first Thursday into Erie County's budget crisis.
County lawmakers like the zoo's plans for a South American Rain Forest, the centerpiece of a $75 million reconstruction program, but wonder if the county can afford it at this point. Legislators also wonder how the Erie County Fiscal Stability Authority will view the rain forest project.
"We're ready to go," zoo President Donna M. Fernandes told the Legislature's Community Enrichment Committee. "The longer we wait, the more expensive it will be."
Fernandes repeatedly emphasized the need to act quickly because of skyrocketing construction costs and the possibility that $6.75 million in matching state funds and $5.25 million in private donations may be lost if the county delays action any longer.
"I like to make good on my promises," said Legislator Michele M. Iannello, D-Kenmore, referring to the county's endorsement of the rain forest three years ago.
The project has languished because of the budget crisis and Fernandes' decision to move to Fresno, Calif., where she headed the Chaffee Zoo for four months before returning to Buffalo.
Lawmakers acknowledge the importance of the zoo project but question the wisdom of borrowing $4 million at a time when the control board is urging restraint.
"I would like to hear something from them," Legislator Timothy Kennedy, D-Buffalo, said of the authority.
The zoo's request has the backing of County Executive Joel A. Giambra but needs the support of 10 of the 15 legislators. At this point, it's not clear if the project has that two-thirds backing.
If it doesn't, Fernandes said the zoo could lose both the state grant and the $4 million challenge grant pledged by M&T Bank Chairman Robert G. Wilmers, whose name will adorn the rain forest. That grant is part of the $5.25 million in private funds pledged to the project.
The rain forest is modeled on the habitat around Venezuela's Angel Falls and will have an open walk-through exhibit featuring such South American attractions as vampire bats, piranhas and an anaconda.
http://www.buffalonews.com/editorial/20060922/1009443.asp
Mill Mountain Zoo offers an adoption program
How many of you have paid a trip to the Mill Mountain Zoo and found a favorite animal?
Now, although you can't take one home, you can adopt an animal at the Mill Mountain Zoo and proudly call yourself a zoo parent.
It's a new program Mill Mountain has come up with to raise money and give the zoo a more interactive feel.
For $30 you get a certificate of adoption, a plush toy, and recognition.
Now there are premium options.
For $50 you can feed the monkeys.
And for $100 you can go behind the scenes and get an up close and personal visit with Nina, the Cougar.
http://www.wdbj7.com/Global/story.asp?S=5447647
Zoo adds elephant-eye view
Atrium at $4.4M exhibit lets patrons hear, see and smell more
Victoria E. Freile
Staff writer
(September 23, 2006) — Seneca Park Zoo and Monroe County officials Friday unveiled a viewing atrium — the latest addition to the new elephant habitat at the zoo.
The $4.4 million exhibit, which opened to the public in April, is about five times larger than the elephants' former habitat and includes a 10,000-square-foot shelter that can house up to five elephants, and a 20,000-square-foot yard.
Now, it includes a 1,000-square-foot glass-enclosed viewing atrium that is designed to offer a year-round opportunity for visitors to interact with the zoo's two African elephants, Genny C. and Lilac.
"This is going to allow visitors an up-close-and-personal look at the elephants," said Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks.
Construction was completed earlier this month, according to Zoo Director Larry Sorel.
http://www.democratandchronicle.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060923/NEWS01/609230304/1002/NEWS
Bird-of-paradise loss is a gain for the zoo
As the plant outgrows even its room addition, KC couple makes a heartfelt donation.
By MATT CAMPBELL
The Kansas City Star
Jeff Owens of Kansas City gave away his bird of paradise plant when it became too big for the two-story addition to his house created for it. The Kansas City Zoo picked up the plant Friday.
You love them, you raise them, you sacrifice for them, and then one day you have to let them go.
Friday was an emotional day for Jeff Owens of Kansas City, who had to part with his baby, a huge bird of paradise plant. At 22 feet tall, Baba was just too big even for the special room Owens had made for him.
He and his wife, May Tveit, watched as a crew from the Kansas City Zoo hauled away the plant, which Owen bought 15 years ago at the City Market when it was only 6 feet tall.
“I’ve had the plant with me over the last three homes, and this last one we rehabbed and built an addition in the back that is two stories tall,” Owens said.
http://www.kansascity.com/mld/kansascity/news/local/15588227.htm
concluding ….
