Musher Sigrid Ekran, from Norway, drives her dog team out of the Takotna, Alaska checkpoint. (AP Photo/Al Grillo)
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Lance Mackey first into Iditarod halfway point; missing musher found
Musher Sigrid Ekran, from Norway, drives her dog team out of the Takotna, Alaska checkpoint. (AP Photo/Al Grillo)
Eagles Vie with Landowners for Waterfront Property - Two Part Series. Very upsetting news.
The Eagle Web cam is presented by BioDiversity Research Institute and made possible through the generous support of FPL Energy Maine Hydro, National Wildlife Federation, Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, and US Fish and Wildlife Service
This is an Eagle Webcam (click on). There are many around the nation. It is a real Eagle in a real nest. Beautiful bird and an incredible national symbol on the verge of be 'IN DANGER' of dwindling numbers again because George Walker Bush wants to remove them from the 'Endangered Species List.' I don't know about anyone else, but, I don't ever see an American Bald Eagle hunted and hanging over the mantle in any home.
Morning Papers - continued ...
Zoos
Smithsonian Book of Giant Pandas
Susan Lumpkin and John Seidensticker (2002)
On January 23, 1984, the giant panda was listed as an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act. It is also protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). However, the preservation of the giant panda is not a matter of governments and international treaties alone. Rather, it is and has to be, as with all other endangered species, a multifaceted, worldwide effort that involves everyone—ordinary citizens and officials alike.
The Smithsonian Book of Giant Pandas was written with just such an effort in mind. In it, Susan Lumpkin, director of communications of Friends of the National Zoo, and John Seidensticker, senior scientist at the Smithsonian Zoological Park, share their understanding of, and personal experience with, giant pandas in the United States and China. They also describe the panda’s natural and cultural history and discuss problems in preserving the species. More than 170 full-color photos accompany the text and illustrate in beautiful detail the giant panda, newborn to full-grown, in its natural habitat and in zoos.
http://advocacy.britannica.com/blog/advocacy/2007/03/smithsonian-book-of-giant-pandas/
Los Angeles Zoo's African Elephant Moves
2007-03-13 00:40:55 -
LOS ANGELES, March 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Los Angeles Zoo Director John Lewis today jointly announced that, after years of helping to educate the Southern California community about elephants, Ruby the elephant will be moved to the Performing Animal Welfare Society in Northern California (PAWS). The 46-year old African elephant has led a fulfilling life at the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens (LA Zoo) where she has lived for nearly 10 active and healthy years.
The Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA), the nonprofit organization created to support the LA Zoo and representing 70,000 member households (more than 300,000 individuals), has closely followed today's decision.
"Ruby has played a vital role in educating the 1.5 million annual visitors to the LA Zoo about elephants," said Tom Mankiewicz, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for GLAZA. "Ruby's contribution to the education of millions of children and families, who were lucky enough to see her during her stay at the LA Zoo, indebts us all to this wonderful animal. This was the right decision for this animal at this time, and we send our best wishes as she enters a new chapter in her life."
http://www.pr-inside.com/rss/los-angeles-zoos-african-elephant-moves-r63313.htm
Petting zoo at the rodeo
Lana Berkowitz
The petting zoo is a favorite place to visit.
There are about 95 animals in the two free petting zoos set up in Reliant Center's AGventure as part of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Maura Rosie knows all of them on a first-name basis.
She pointed out Ruby, the 6-month-old kangaroo that was resting in a red sling; Terry the goat, who had the nibbles for shirt tails; and Gretchen, another goat, who thought a notebook would be a tasty treat Monday morning.
"It's like having a class," said Rosie, who manages the menagerie. "You learn their names."
Rosie helped raise many of the animals that are part of a traveling exhibit from Kids and Critters in Medford, Oregon.
The deer, goats, potbellied pigs, wallabys, llamas, miniature donkeys and sheep grew up in the zoo and enjoy human attention.
http://blogs.chron.com/tmi/2007/03/post_35.html
Peacocks Threaten Quiet Bucks Co. Street
Imagine. Being in your house in a quiet cul-de-sac while, outside, a menace lurks. Four menaces, actually. How would you deal with the multiple menaces, almost enough for a basketball team, who could be lurking right around the corner of your deceptively-small single home?
That's the situation in Bucks County, where peacocks are running free on Dublin Way in East Rockhill. The blue-and-green menaces are... wait, peacocks? That's all? Zoos don't even lock up peacocks. Zoos! And they don't even let sheep roam free. Sheep!
So, yeah, the residents of Dublin Way are all nasty and pissed off because there are peacocks in their neighborhood. Me, I'd think that was awesome, a giant peacock roaming down Spruce Street. I'd attach a little stop sign to its feathers so the cars know not to hit it.
However, these whiny suburbanites might not get their wish anyway. As KYW 1060 reports:
Pennridge Regional police chief David Mettin says police do not have any way to catch wild peacocks, and "it's not something police get involved in."
You hear that? The popo will protect the rights of the peacocks, whether you like it or not!
http://willdo.philadelphiaweekly.com/archives/2007/03/peacocks_threat.html
West Meade playwright looks at world through zoos
By SARAH B. GILLIAM | sgilliam@tennessean.com | 259-8066
Sonia Justl plays a right-wing newscaster in the Baghdad Zoo play, one of six short political plays in the Zoologies collection by Christine Mather. Centrist newscaster Ashley Beam and left-wing newscaster Phil Perry acted out possible zoo scenarios while Justl described the scene. (SARAH B. GILLIAM / THE TENNESSEAN)
Ashley Beam plays a centrist newscaster in the Zoologies rehearsal, a series by West Meade resident and playwright Christine Mather. Phil Perry and Sonia Justl act as right-wing and left-wing newscasters in a scene from the Baghdad Zoo. (SARAH B. GILLIAM / THE TENNESSEAN)
Zoologies director Marc Mazzone
Zoologies playwright Christine Mather, a West Meade resident
If you go
Tickets for the shows at Bongo After Hours Theatre, 2007 Belmont Blvd., are $12, $10 for students and seniors. Zoologies contains strong language and is most suitable for mature teenagers and adults.
Call 352-3806 for reservations/more information for the show and/or the preview.
Six-play 'Zoologies' examines human drama through animals from Baghdad to New Orleans
"Save the zoos, save the world," is the message West Meade resident and playwright Christine Mather hopes to portray in her six plays titled "Zoologies."
The plays will be performed at 7:30 p.m. March 22, 23, 24, 29, 20 and 31 at Bongo After Hours Theatre.
"The plays use our strong connection to animals to dramatize concerns from Baghdad to New Orleans in an amusing and provocative way," she said. "We need to take care of the things we say we're going to be responsible for. If we take animals out of the wild or raise them domestically or in zoos, we are making a commitment. We're saying you aren't on your own, you're dependent on us. That is really true of everything."
http://my.tennessean.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070312/MICRO02020602/703140322
Koala’s mission: Just mate, mate
The skittish new male koala at Riverbanks Zoo might never be seen by the public, but zoo officials throughout the world hope people will see plenty of his descendants.
This 5-year-old male, named Great, has the right genetic stuff to diversify, and thus strengthen, the captive koala population worldwide. That’s why he was transported via jet Monday from the San Diego Zoo to join the two female koalas at Riverbanks.
Koalas are found in the wild only in Australia, which strictly limits the export of its iconic species.
The few koalas shipped to zoos outside Australia decades ago generated two main family lines — those bred in Japanese zoos and those bred at the San Diego Zoo. Experts worry the lack of genetic diversity in those families could make the koalas more susceptible to diseases and skeletal injuries.
http://www.thestate.com/mld/thestate/16896795.htm
Georgian's veterinary program scores top marks
Date: Mar 15, 2007
The Canadian Council on Animal Care recently awarded Georgian College's Veterinary Technician program one of its highest honours - accreditation as a "Good Animal Practice" facility.
"This is a big deal for us," said Tine Curran, program co-ordinator at the Orillia campus, adding that accreditation is not easy to attain.
"The Council's requirements are very detailed and stringent, as they should be. We were fortunate that we were able to research and plan ahead of building construction to ensure our on-site veterinary hospital was correctly built to exceed standards."
Faculty and advisors worked closely with architects to ensure the $800,000 facility maximized teaching and learning opportunities. The 3,800-square-foot hospital, which contains examination rooms, X-ray and surgical suites, officially opened in February 2003.
The Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC), established in 1968, is responsible for setting and maintaining standards for the care and use of animals used in research, teaching or testing.
The CCAC believes that the humane care and use of animals should be the prime concern and responsibility of all individuals using animals for research, teaching or testing.
http://www.simcoe.com/article/34312
Sea World pledges penguins will return
Gold Coast theme park Sea World says it will rebuild its population of fairy penguins after a mystery toxin killed 25 of them in the past week.
The toxin, which is still in the process of being identified, attacks the brain, kidneys and liver of penguins.
The birds became ill on Thursday last week and by the weekend, 25 of the 37 penguins at the park were dead.
Sea World vets have isolated the surviving penguins while tests were being carried out.
Sea World marine sciences director Trevor Long said the 12 surviving penguins were in quarantine and the population would be rebuilt.
"We're very fortunate in that we've got a good group of birds in Australia," Mr Long told ABC Radio.
"There are birds in all zoos in Australia and there's a good stud book, so we'll be communicating with the stud book coordinator and with the other zoos, getting surplus birds and breeding back up.
"We've still got a reasonable mixture of genetics ourselves, so we'll be able to continue breeding."
Department of Primary Industries (DPI) general manager of animal biosecurity Ron Glanville said disease already had been ruled out, while tests for bird flu also had proved negative.
http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/sea-world-pledges-penguin-willl-return/2007/03/15/1173722603773.html
Sea World penguins 'pining for dead mates'
The mysterious deaths of 25 fairy penguins at a Queensland theme park would have a devastating effect on the surviving birds because fairy penguins mate for life, says a Victorian expert.
As an urgent investigation continues into what killed the penguins at Sea World on the Gold Coast, Ros Jessup, a spokeswoman for Victoria's Penguin Parade at Phillip Island, said the surviving penguins would pine for their dead mates.
"They would have a group dynamic and there would be pair bonds between the pairs that are breeding," Ms Jessup told ABC radio.
"The divorce rate in penguins is a little bit less than in humans, so those (surviving) penguins will be looking for their partners."
http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/sea-world-penguins-pining-for-dead-mates/2007/03/14/1173722518143.html
Cabin fever cures: Zoo and golf
At last, sun warms the outdoor adventurer
BY QUAN TRUONG | QTRUONG@ENQUIRER.COM
Grab the kids, fill up the van and don't forget the camera.
After a late but frigid winter, Greater Cincinnati was rewarded with an early spring Friday when temperatures nearly broke 70 degrees.
Thousands of people shook off the winter blahs and headed for the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden.
About 2,500 people showed up Friday, five times the daily average for March, zoo officials said.
"Lots of moms and strollers and minivans covered the parking lot," spokesman Chad Yelton said. "It sure was a sign of spring - sounds and sights we haven't seen in some time with this weather."
Local golf courses are getting busy, too.
"With this kind of weather, they'll come out of the woodwork to play golf," said Tom Ellis, an employee at Elks Run in Batavia.
Elks Run picked the perfect day to open for the season on Friday, with more than 60 people stopping in by late afternoon for their fix of golf.
In North Bend, about half of the 90 golfers at Aston Oaks were walk-ins.
http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070310/NEWS01/703100359/1077/COL02
Pale pink flamingos at the zoo
Wikipedia says that a flamingo with pale coloring usually means it is not healthy. At the same time, it does not seem to be uncommon for flamingos in captivity to appear pale not necessarily because they are unhealthy but because due of insufficient amounts of carotene in their diet.
I’m not an expert in flamingos but these birds don’t look unhealthy to me. They appear to be talking to one another.
http://www.pearloftheorientseas.com/2007/03/10/pale-pink-flamingos-at-the-zoo/
Zoo in Zurich
Funny campaign by Zurich Zoo. Text: “Our animals love visitors”. Agency: Publicis. -Quang.
http://haha.nu/creative/zoo-in-zurich/
Black Bears, Bobcats In New Home At Zoo
PORTLAND - The Oregon Zoo has added a $36 million expansion containing wildlife of the great Northwest.
The new exhibit was unveiled Friday morning. It features a new home for black bears that can be viewed by visitors from a 100 foot long suspension bridge. The bears will roam about 14 feet below the bridge.
Gerry, the 305 pound black bear, has a new home after living in a different part of the zoo more than a decade ago. New friends Pete and Homer are also on display. The new wild-born bears are named for Homer and Petersburg, Ala., near where they were orphaned.
A pair of bobcats can also be found in the new exhibit. Bears and bobcats are naturally reclusive. The exhibit explains how humans are encroaching on their lives.
3/10/2007
http://www.koin.com/Global/story.asp?S=6208402
Rare banded linsang born at zoo
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (UPI) -- A banded linsang, the rarest member of the civet family, has given birth at the Taiping Zoo in Malaysia.
The month-old linsang is the first born in captivity in Malaysia, the Malaysia Star reported.
'It`s a beautiful animal but very little is known about the banded linsang, not even the female`s gestation period or mating cycles,' Kevin Lazarus, the zoo director, told reporters at a news conference. 'We missed the mating, otherwise we could have gauged the gestation period.'
The banded linsang is a member of the family of viveridae, catlike mammals that include civets and genets. The banded linsang is found only in the rain forests of Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia and is totally protected throughout its range.
http://science.monstersandcritics.com/news/article_1275567.php/Rare_banded_linsang_born_at_zoo
Zoo Day Celebrated with Animal Birth
It was anything but a lazy day for the animals and their keepers. For the first time in 18 years the Jackson Zoological Park celebrated the AT&T Zoo Day.
Mississippi musicians entertained families as they made their way through the zoo. Children enjoyed games and educational exhibits, while parents visited arts and crafts booths from local artists. Zoo officials planned a number of fun activities, but it was an unscheduled event that became the Zoo Day main attraction.
On Saturday, Christopher Mims with the Jackson Zoo said, "One of the most exciting things that happened today was we had a birth. Our tapir gave birth in front of thousands of visitors around 11:00 today. And it was just so extraordinary, so we've just had a wonderful day."
The baby tapir took his first steps while visitors looked on. Zoo officials say both mother and baby are doing well.
http://www.wlbt.com/Global/story.asp?S=6209632&nav=2CSf
Detroit Zoo has volunteer opportunities for lovers of animals, nature
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 300 applicants for 30 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 piqued 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 said. Silverman enjoyed it so much, she recruited her sister and several friends into the docent program.
http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070311/NEWS25/703110586/1019/rss02
Taking good care of Lulu at the Toledo Zoo
The zoo’s rhino gets lots of attention, especially after an eye problem surfaced
Ms. Gould is the rhino's confidante as well as caretaker.
( THE BLADE/JETTA FRASER )
By JENNI LAIDMAN
BLADE SCIENCE WRITER
Every day is spa day for Lulu. First she showers. Then, while her skin still glistens with moisture, she gets a rubdown to exfoliate dead cells.
Next, the pedicure.
Zoo keeper Robin Gould doesn’t look the part of beautician in her boots and khakis, but to Lulu she’s stylist, personal trainer, confidante.
“Come here, sweet pea,” Ms. Gould said in a lilting falsetto. The 4,300-pound white rhinoceros toook a step forward, her massive body swaying. Then she paused to rub her flank on the bars of the stall. “Come on. Move up,” Ms. Gould said gently. “You have to be patient with rhinos. They just don’t move like that,” she explained, snapping her fingers.
She has a knack with rhinos. She can lie on the ground and trim Lulu’s toes with a woodworking tool, and not get stepped on by the constantly swaying giant.
“If she doesn’t trust you, how are you going to take care of her?” Ms. Gould said. She and Lulu recently proved the importance of such trust.
http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070311/NEWS38/70311011
A trip to the зоопарк ('zoo park')
This morning, Selma and I met up with our translator, Yulia Zmulyukova, and her boyfriend Dima, and we took a walking tour of the city. We spent a few hours exploring the Kharkiv Zoo, which is 111 years old.
The zoo is right near my house. Admission costs 10 grivni -- $2 -- for adults. Here are some random photos. You'll find more on my Google Picasa Web Album at:
http://picasaweb.google.com/jeffrey.south/KharkivZoo
http://jeff-south.blogspot.com/2007/03/trip-to-zoo-park.html
Milwaukee County Zoo brings millions to Milwaukee County
UWM study demonstrates zoo's economic impact
The Milwaukee County Zoo has a total annual economic impact of $112 million annually in the four-county region, according to a University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee study.
Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker said Wednesday that the zoo is a magnet and has a profound impact on the economy of the four-county area, which includes Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Washington and Waukesha counties.
Walker said the finding, which was completed by the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Institute for Survey and Policy Research, showed that the zoo was a very shrewd investment.
The total estimated direct and indirect impact of the Milwaukee County Zoo on the four- county area is $112.1 million in output, $38.1 million in earnings and 1,297 jobs, the study found.
Walker said the study showed that the zoo has direct economic contributions from out-of-area visitors expenditures of about $56.7 million in output, $18 million in earnings and 795 jobs. Direct economic contributions from future construction are estimated to be $10.7 million in output, $3 million in earnings and 105 jobs, he said.
http://www.uwmpost.com/article/c58b6a051109ce0c0111439bbdff004f
State zoo turning into major research centre
By A Staff Reporter
GUWAHATI, March 11 – Slowly the Assam State Zoo is being transformed to embrace a larger range of objectives. The artificial refuge of more than 700 species of wildlife, the facility is now being shaped into a major research arena, which could further help educate the masses on various aspects of biodiversity. Spread over 175 hectare, the State Zoo is now in the midst of a complete overhaul with bigger, scientifically constructed enclosures replicating the natural habitat of the residents, better information dispensing equipment, and more research activities, especially involving wildlife difficult to study in their natural habitat.
Narayan Mahanta the zoo DFO told The Assam Tribune that the facility has been expanded to meet the objectives of captive breeding, research and education, apart from conservation of flora and fauna, which has already been there. “The stress is on research on the endemic wildlife of the North East, many of which are rare and endangered. Captive breeding programmes are already going on and among those which have been successful concern the one-horned rhino, tiger, golden langur, jungle cat to name a few. Plans are on to increase the number of species, which could be bred in captivity.
http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/details.asp?id=mar1207/at06
Naples Zoo kicks off ‘Save the Panther Week’By Jennifer Brannock (Contact)
Monday, March 12, 2007
Florida panthers may be elusive in the wild, but they’re appearing all over Naples this week.
Coordinators kicked off opening day of “Save the Panther Week” at the Naples Zoo on Sunday morning. Volunteers with several environmental and animal agencies gathered along the zoo corridor near the panther exhibit to distribute information on the endangered species.
While viewing the two panthers housed at the zoo, visitors chatted with experts about the importance of land conservation for and protection of the panther.
“This is a way for us to draw attention to an endangered species that attracts children and adults as well,” said Leslie Walker, volunteer naturalist for J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island.
http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2007/mar/12/naples_zoo_kicks_save_panther_week/?local_news
Zoo growth plan on table this week
March 12, 2007
BLANK PARK ZOO officials want to add $50 million in exhibits and attractions. The 10-year plan requires space, so they have considered part of Fort Des Moines Park, which is controlled by the Polk County Conservation Board.
FORT DES MOINES PARK has more than 100 acres. It includes a fishing lake, a playground, shelters and a rare stand of oak trees. Peter Heimdahl of the Save Fort Des Moines Committee fears that "public green space is fair game" if parkland is used for a zoo project.
THE IDEA of a zoo expansion into Fort Des Moines Park has been talked about for about 18 months. After preservationists objected, the plan was modified to expand the zoo into a portion of the Blank Park Golf Course. That idea was abandoned when the zoo's consultant said it would take years to develop the space, while the park offered a turnkey move.
http://desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070312/NEWS05/703120334/-1/SPORTS09
L.A. Zoo to retire elephant to animal sanctuary
Animal rights activists praise decision on Ruby, which ends months of speculation on her fate.
By Carla Hall, Times Staff Writer
March 12, 2007
The Los Angeles Zoo is expected to announce today that it is retiring its female African elephant, Ruby, to an animal sanctuary in Central California.
The decision ends months of speculation over whether the pachyderm would go to another zoo or a sanctuary, and was praised by animal rights activists who lobbied for several years for her retirement to a preserve.
Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, who has expressed concern about the conditions for elephants at the L.A. Zoo, plans to discuss the decision to relocate Ruby at a news conference today.
"I am very pleased that the city and the zoo recognize that it's best to send Ruby to a sanctuary, which unlike a zoo can provide the vast space and natural conditions that elephants need," Catherine Doyle, elephant campaign director for In Defense of Animals, said Sunday night.
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-ruby12mar12,0,4279339.story?coll=la-home-headlines
Moscow Zoo changes to spring schedule
12.03.2007
With the beginning of spring Moscow Zoo has prepared some surprises for visitors. First of all the zoo administration has prolonged working hours – now the zoo works daily (except Monday) 10am-18pm; ticket offices work till 5pm.
Secondly, the zoo has opened a website moscowzoo.ru, which contains not only maps, lists of animals, and other visitor information, but also web cameras set in two cages with image updating every 20 seconds. Unfortunately, English version of the website is not available, but one can find the web cameras here.
One more innovation is a new giant monument on the central square of the zoo – a figure of the Moa bird which became extinct 300 years ago.
Source: www.kp.ru
http://www.russia-ic.com/news/show/3587/
Maryland Zoo's Baby Penguin Gets Novel Operation
When workers at the zoo noticed the penguin stumbling shortly after he was born they began a slew of tests to examine his condition. Veterinarians found the bird's vertebrae were angled abnormally. At first they thought he might still be able to function normally because they had seen a similar but less-serious problem before.
"We were wrong; he started having trouble walking and eventually was tumbling over," Bradford said.
Zoo veterinarians sent the yet to be named penguin - whose coat will remain gray until he reaches adulthood - to get an MRI at the IAMS Pet Imaging Center in Northern Virginia. The imaging confirmed what veterinarians feared, the hump on his back was the result of vertebrae misalignment, resulting in the need for a complicated procedure - the first of its kind for a penguin.
http://penguinsland.blogspot.com/2007/03/maryland-zoos-baby-penguin-gets-novel.html
Miller Park Zoo could get new hospital
03/12/2007 04:43:48
Miller Park Zoo is hoping to build a new animal hospital so animals can get more medical care in-house. Tonight, the city council will vote on a plan for a $400,000 facility for the zoo. Zoo director John Tobias says now, the zoo has a few lab rooms in the basement of the zoo, and often has to take animals across town to a clinic. In that case, the animals are exposed to many other diseases. He says the zoo needs its own hospital...
Listen:
Tobias says the new hospital would include a treatment room, operating room, recovery room, quarantine space, and facilities for staff. It would go west of the feline exhibit, and would have a window into the treatment room so that visitors can watch procedures being done. Tobias hopes the hospital could be finished by September.
The new hospital is included in phase one of the Zoo's Operation Roar, which will also result in the renovation of the Katthoefer Animal Building, built in 1914.
http://www.wjbc.com/wire2/news/00396_Zoo-Hospital-1-web_054358.htm
Smithsonian Book of Giant Pandas
Susan Lumpkin and John Seidensticker (2002)
On January 23, 1984, the giant panda was listed as an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act. It is also protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). However, the preservation of the giant panda is not a matter of governments and international treaties alone. Rather, it is and has to be, as with all other endangered species, a multifaceted, worldwide effort that involves everyone—ordinary citizens and officials alike.
The Smithsonian Book of Giant Pandas was written with just such an effort in mind. In it, Susan Lumpkin, director of communications of Friends of the National Zoo, and John Seidensticker, senior scientist at the Smithsonian Zoological Park, share their understanding of, and personal experience with, giant pandas in the United States and China. They also describe the panda’s natural and cultural history and discuss problems in preserving the species. More than 170 full-color photos accompany the text and illustrate in beautiful detail the giant panda, newborn to full-grown, in its natural habitat and in zoos.
http://advocacy.britannica.com/blog/advocacy/2007/03/smithsonian-book-of-giant-pandas/
Los Angeles Zoo's African Elephant Moves
2007-03-13 00:40:55 -
LOS ANGELES, March 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Los Angeles Zoo Director John Lewis today jointly announced that, after years of helping to educate the Southern California community about elephants, Ruby the elephant will be moved to the Performing Animal Welfare Society in Northern California (PAWS). The 46-year old African elephant has led a fulfilling life at the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens (LA Zoo) where she has lived for nearly 10 active and healthy years.
The Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA), the nonprofit organization created to support the LA Zoo and representing 70,000 member households (more than 300,000 individuals), has closely followed today's decision.
"Ruby has played a vital role in educating the 1.5 million annual visitors to the LA Zoo about elephants," said Tom Mankiewicz, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for GLAZA. "Ruby's contribution to the education of millions of children and families, who were lucky enough to see her during her stay at the LA Zoo, indebts us all to this wonderful animal. This was the right decision for this animal at this time, and we send our best wishes as she enters a new chapter in her life."
http://www.pr-inside.com/rss/los-angeles-zoos-african-elephant-moves-r63313.htm
Petting zoo at the rodeo
Lana Berkowitz
The petting zoo is a favorite place to visit.
There are about 95 animals in the two free petting zoos set up in Reliant Center's AGventure as part of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Maura Rosie knows all of them on a first-name basis.
She pointed out Ruby, the 6-month-old kangaroo that was resting in a red sling; Terry the goat, who had the nibbles for shirt tails; and Gretchen, another goat, who thought a notebook would be a tasty treat Monday morning.
"It's like having a class," said Rosie, who manages the menagerie. "You learn their names."
Rosie helped raise many of the animals that are part of a traveling exhibit from Kids and Critters in Medford, Oregon.
The deer, goats, potbellied pigs, wallabys, llamas, miniature donkeys and sheep grew up in the zoo and enjoy human attention.
http://blogs.chron.com/tmi/2007/03/post_35.html
Peacocks Threaten Quiet Bucks Co. Street
Imagine. Being in your house in a quiet cul-de-sac while, outside, a menace lurks. Four menaces, actually. How would you deal with the multiple menaces, almost enough for a basketball team, who could be lurking right around the corner of your deceptively-small single home?
That's the situation in Bucks County, where peacocks are running free on Dublin Way in East Rockhill. The blue-and-green menaces are... wait, peacocks? That's all? Zoos don't even lock up peacocks. Zoos! And they don't even let sheep roam free. Sheep!
So, yeah, the residents of Dublin Way are all nasty and pissed off because there are peacocks in their neighborhood. Me, I'd think that was awesome, a giant peacock roaming down Spruce Street. I'd attach a little stop sign to its feathers so the cars know not to hit it.
However, these whiny suburbanites might not get their wish anyway. As KYW 1060 reports:
Pennridge Regional police chief David Mettin says police do not have any way to catch wild peacocks, and "it's not something police get involved in."
You hear that? The popo will protect the rights of the peacocks, whether you like it or not!
http://willdo.philadelphiaweekly.com/archives/2007/03/peacocks_threat.html
West Meade playwright looks at world through zoos
By SARAH B. GILLIAM | sgilliam@tennessean.com | 259-8066
Sonia Justl plays a right-wing newscaster in the Baghdad Zoo play, one of six short political plays in the Zoologies collection by Christine Mather. Centrist newscaster Ashley Beam and left-wing newscaster Phil Perry acted out possible zoo scenarios while Justl described the scene. (SARAH B. GILLIAM / THE TENNESSEAN)
Ashley Beam plays a centrist newscaster in the Zoologies rehearsal, a series by West Meade resident and playwright Christine Mather. Phil Perry and Sonia Justl act as right-wing and left-wing newscasters in a scene from the Baghdad Zoo. (SARAH B. GILLIAM / THE TENNESSEAN)
Zoologies director Marc Mazzone
Zoologies playwright Christine Mather, a West Meade resident
If you go
Tickets for the shows at Bongo After Hours Theatre, 2007 Belmont Blvd., are $12, $10 for students and seniors. Zoologies contains strong language and is most suitable for mature teenagers and adults.
Call 352-3806 for reservations/more information for the show and/or the preview.
Six-play 'Zoologies' examines human drama through animals from Baghdad to New Orleans
"Save the zoos, save the world," is the message West Meade resident and playwright Christine Mather hopes to portray in her six plays titled "Zoologies."
The plays will be performed at 7:30 p.m. March 22, 23, 24, 29, 20 and 31 at Bongo After Hours Theatre.
"The plays use our strong connection to animals to dramatize concerns from Baghdad to New Orleans in an amusing and provocative way," she said. "We need to take care of the things we say we're going to be responsible for. If we take animals out of the wild or raise them domestically or in zoos, we are making a commitment. We're saying you aren't on your own, you're dependent on us. That is really true of everything."
http://my.tennessean.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070312/MICRO02020602/703140322
Koala’s mission: Just mate, mate
The skittish new male koala at Riverbanks Zoo might never be seen by the public, but zoo officials throughout the world hope people will see plenty of his descendants.
This 5-year-old male, named Great, has the right genetic stuff to diversify, and thus strengthen, the captive koala population worldwide. That’s why he was transported via jet Monday from the San Diego Zoo to join the two female koalas at Riverbanks.
Koalas are found in the wild only in Australia, which strictly limits the export of its iconic species.
The few koalas shipped to zoos outside Australia decades ago generated two main family lines — those bred in Japanese zoos and those bred at the San Diego Zoo. Experts worry the lack of genetic diversity in those families could make the koalas more susceptible to diseases and skeletal injuries.
http://www.thestate.com/mld/thestate/16896795.htm
Georgian's veterinary program scores top marks
Date: Mar 15, 2007
The Canadian Council on Animal Care recently awarded Georgian College's Veterinary Technician program one of its highest honours - accreditation as a "Good Animal Practice" facility.
"This is a big deal for us," said Tine Curran, program co-ordinator at the Orillia campus, adding that accreditation is not easy to attain.
"The Council's requirements are very detailed and stringent, as they should be. We were fortunate that we were able to research and plan ahead of building construction to ensure our on-site veterinary hospital was correctly built to exceed standards."
Faculty and advisors worked closely with architects to ensure the $800,000 facility maximized teaching and learning opportunities. The 3,800-square-foot hospital, which contains examination rooms, X-ray and surgical suites, officially opened in February 2003.
The Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC), established in 1968, is responsible for setting and maintaining standards for the care and use of animals used in research, teaching or testing.
The CCAC believes that the humane care and use of animals should be the prime concern and responsibility of all individuals using animals for research, teaching or testing.
http://www.simcoe.com/article/34312
Sea World pledges penguins will return
Gold Coast theme park Sea World says it will rebuild its population of fairy penguins after a mystery toxin killed 25 of them in the past week.
The toxin, which is still in the process of being identified, attacks the brain, kidneys and liver of penguins.
The birds became ill on Thursday last week and by the weekend, 25 of the 37 penguins at the park were dead.
Sea World vets have isolated the surviving penguins while tests were being carried out.
Sea World marine sciences director Trevor Long said the 12 surviving penguins were in quarantine and the population would be rebuilt.
"We're very fortunate in that we've got a good group of birds in Australia," Mr Long told ABC Radio.
"There are birds in all zoos in Australia and there's a good stud book, so we'll be communicating with the stud book coordinator and with the other zoos, getting surplus birds and breeding back up.
"We've still got a reasonable mixture of genetics ourselves, so we'll be able to continue breeding."
Department of Primary Industries (DPI) general manager of animal biosecurity Ron Glanville said disease already had been ruled out, while tests for bird flu also had proved negative.
http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/sea-world-pledges-penguin-willl-return/2007/03/15/1173722603773.html
Sea World penguins 'pining for dead mates'
The mysterious deaths of 25 fairy penguins at a Queensland theme park would have a devastating effect on the surviving birds because fairy penguins mate for life, says a Victorian expert.
As an urgent investigation continues into what killed the penguins at Sea World on the Gold Coast, Ros Jessup, a spokeswoman for Victoria's Penguin Parade at Phillip Island, said the surviving penguins would pine for their dead mates.
"They would have a group dynamic and there would be pair bonds between the pairs that are breeding," Ms Jessup told ABC radio.
"The divorce rate in penguins is a little bit less than in humans, so those (surviving) penguins will be looking for their partners."
http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/sea-world-penguins-pining-for-dead-mates/2007/03/14/1173722518143.html
Cabin fever cures: Zoo and golf
At last, sun warms the outdoor adventurer
BY QUAN TRUONG | QTRUONG@ENQUIRER.COM
Grab the kids, fill up the van and don't forget the camera.
After a late but frigid winter, Greater Cincinnati was rewarded with an early spring Friday when temperatures nearly broke 70 degrees.
Thousands of people shook off the winter blahs and headed for the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden.
About 2,500 people showed up Friday, five times the daily average for March, zoo officials said.
"Lots of moms and strollers and minivans covered the parking lot," spokesman Chad Yelton said. "It sure was a sign of spring - sounds and sights we haven't seen in some time with this weather."
Local golf courses are getting busy, too.
"With this kind of weather, they'll come out of the woodwork to play golf," said Tom Ellis, an employee at Elks Run in Batavia.
Elks Run picked the perfect day to open for the season on Friday, with more than 60 people stopping in by late afternoon for their fix of golf.
In North Bend, about half of the 90 golfers at Aston Oaks were walk-ins.
http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070310/NEWS01/703100359/1077/COL02
Pale pink flamingos at the zoo
Wikipedia says that a flamingo with pale coloring usually means it is not healthy. At the same time, it does not seem to be uncommon for flamingos in captivity to appear pale not necessarily because they are unhealthy but because due of insufficient amounts of carotene in their diet.
I’m not an expert in flamingos but these birds don’t look unhealthy to me. They appear to be talking to one another.
http://www.pearloftheorientseas.com/2007/03/10/pale-pink-flamingos-at-the-zoo/
Zoo in Zurich
Funny campaign by Zurich Zoo. Text: “Our animals love visitors”. Agency: Publicis. -Quang.
http://haha.nu/creative/zoo-in-zurich/
Black Bears, Bobcats In New Home At Zoo
PORTLAND - The Oregon Zoo has added a $36 million expansion containing wildlife of the great Northwest.
The new exhibit was unveiled Friday morning. It features a new home for black bears that can be viewed by visitors from a 100 foot long suspension bridge. The bears will roam about 14 feet below the bridge.
Gerry, the 305 pound black bear, has a new home after living in a different part of the zoo more than a decade ago. New friends Pete and Homer are also on display. The new wild-born bears are named for Homer and Petersburg, Ala., near where they were orphaned.
A pair of bobcats can also be found in the new exhibit. Bears and bobcats are naturally reclusive. The exhibit explains how humans are encroaching on their lives.
3/10/2007
http://www.koin.com/Global/story.asp?S=6208402
Rare banded linsang born at zoo
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (UPI) -- A banded linsang, the rarest member of the civet family, has given birth at the Taiping Zoo in Malaysia.
The month-old linsang is the first born in captivity in Malaysia, the Malaysia Star reported.
'It`s a beautiful animal but very little is known about the banded linsang, not even the female`s gestation period or mating cycles,' Kevin Lazarus, the zoo director, told reporters at a news conference. 'We missed the mating, otherwise we could have gauged the gestation period.'
The banded linsang is a member of the family of viveridae, catlike mammals that include civets and genets. The banded linsang is found only in the rain forests of Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia and is totally protected throughout its range.
http://science.monstersandcritics.com/news/article_1275567.php/Rare_banded_linsang_born_at_zoo
Zoo Day Celebrated with Animal Birth
It was anything but a lazy day for the animals and their keepers. For the first time in 18 years the Jackson Zoological Park celebrated the AT&T Zoo Day.
Mississippi musicians entertained families as they made their way through the zoo. Children enjoyed games and educational exhibits, while parents visited arts and crafts booths from local artists. Zoo officials planned a number of fun activities, but it was an unscheduled event that became the Zoo Day main attraction.
On Saturday, Christopher Mims with the Jackson Zoo said, "One of the most exciting things that happened today was we had a birth. Our tapir gave birth in front of thousands of visitors around 11:00 today. And it was just so extraordinary, so we've just had a wonderful day."
The baby tapir took his first steps while visitors looked on. Zoo officials say both mother and baby are doing well.
http://www.wlbt.com/Global/story.asp?S=6209632&nav=2CSf
Detroit Zoo has volunteer opportunities for lovers of animals, nature
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 300 applicants for 30 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 piqued 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 said. Silverman enjoyed it so much, she recruited her sister and several friends into the docent program.
http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070311/NEWS25/703110586/1019/rss02
Taking good care of Lulu at the Toledo Zoo
The zoo’s rhino gets lots of attention, especially after an eye problem surfaced
Ms. Gould is the rhino's confidante as well as caretaker.
( THE BLADE/JETTA FRASER )
By JENNI LAIDMAN
BLADE SCIENCE WRITER
Every day is spa day for Lulu. First she showers. Then, while her skin still glistens with moisture, she gets a rubdown to exfoliate dead cells.
Next, the pedicure.
Zoo keeper Robin Gould doesn’t look the part of beautician in her boots and khakis, but to Lulu she’s stylist, personal trainer, confidante.
“Come here, sweet pea,” Ms. Gould said in a lilting falsetto. The 4,300-pound white rhinoceros toook a step forward, her massive body swaying. Then she paused to rub her flank on the bars of the stall. “Come on. Move up,” Ms. Gould said gently. “You have to be patient with rhinos. They just don’t move like that,” she explained, snapping her fingers.
She has a knack with rhinos. She can lie on the ground and trim Lulu’s toes with a woodworking tool, and not get stepped on by the constantly swaying giant.
“If she doesn’t trust you, how are you going to take care of her?” Ms. Gould said. She and Lulu recently proved the importance of such trust.
http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070311/NEWS38/70311011
A trip to the зоопарк ('zoo park')
This morning, Selma and I met up with our translator, Yulia Zmulyukova, and her boyfriend Dima, and we took a walking tour of the city. We spent a few hours exploring the Kharkiv Zoo, which is 111 years old.
The zoo is right near my house. Admission costs 10 grivni -- $2 -- for adults. Here are some random photos. You'll find more on my Google Picasa Web Album at:
http://picasaweb.google.com/jeffrey.south/KharkivZoo
http://jeff-south.blogspot.com/2007/03/trip-to-zoo-park.html
Milwaukee County Zoo brings millions to Milwaukee County
UWM study demonstrates zoo's economic impact
The Milwaukee County Zoo has a total annual economic impact of $112 million annually in the four-county region, according to a University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee study.
Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker said Wednesday that the zoo is a magnet and has a profound impact on the economy of the four-county area, which includes Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Washington and Waukesha counties.
Walker said the finding, which was completed by the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Institute for Survey and Policy Research, showed that the zoo was a very shrewd investment.
The total estimated direct and indirect impact of the Milwaukee County Zoo on the four- county area is $112.1 million in output, $38.1 million in earnings and 1,297 jobs, the study found.
Walker said the study showed that the zoo has direct economic contributions from out-of-area visitors expenditures of about $56.7 million in output, $18 million in earnings and 795 jobs. Direct economic contributions from future construction are estimated to be $10.7 million in output, $3 million in earnings and 105 jobs, he said.
http://www.uwmpost.com/article/c58b6a051109ce0c0111439bbdff004f
State zoo turning into major research centre
By A Staff Reporter
GUWAHATI, March 11 – Slowly the Assam State Zoo is being transformed to embrace a larger range of objectives. The artificial refuge of more than 700 species of wildlife, the facility is now being shaped into a major research arena, which could further help educate the masses on various aspects of biodiversity. Spread over 175 hectare, the State Zoo is now in the midst of a complete overhaul with bigger, scientifically constructed enclosures replicating the natural habitat of the residents, better information dispensing equipment, and more research activities, especially involving wildlife difficult to study in their natural habitat.
Narayan Mahanta the zoo DFO told The Assam Tribune that the facility has been expanded to meet the objectives of captive breeding, research and education, apart from conservation of flora and fauna, which has already been there. “The stress is on research on the endemic wildlife of the North East, many of which are rare and endangered. Captive breeding programmes are already going on and among those which have been successful concern the one-horned rhino, tiger, golden langur, jungle cat to name a few. Plans are on to increase the number of species, which could be bred in captivity.
http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/details.asp?id=mar1207/at06
Naples Zoo kicks off ‘Save the Panther Week’By Jennifer Brannock (Contact)
Monday, March 12, 2007
Florida panthers may be elusive in the wild, but they’re appearing all over Naples this week.
Coordinators kicked off opening day of “Save the Panther Week” at the Naples Zoo on Sunday morning. Volunteers with several environmental and animal agencies gathered along the zoo corridor near the panther exhibit to distribute information on the endangered species.
While viewing the two panthers housed at the zoo, visitors chatted with experts about the importance of land conservation for and protection of the panther.
“This is a way for us to draw attention to an endangered species that attracts children and adults as well,” said Leslie Walker, volunteer naturalist for J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island.
http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2007/mar/12/naples_zoo_kicks_save_panther_week/?local_news
Zoo growth plan on table this week
March 12, 2007
BLANK PARK ZOO officials want to add $50 million in exhibits and attractions. The 10-year plan requires space, so they have considered part of Fort Des Moines Park, which is controlled by the Polk County Conservation Board.
FORT DES MOINES PARK has more than 100 acres. It includes a fishing lake, a playground, shelters and a rare stand of oak trees. Peter Heimdahl of the Save Fort Des Moines Committee fears that "public green space is fair game" if parkland is used for a zoo project.
THE IDEA of a zoo expansion into Fort Des Moines Park has been talked about for about 18 months. After preservationists objected, the plan was modified to expand the zoo into a portion of the Blank Park Golf Course. That idea was abandoned when the zoo's consultant said it would take years to develop the space, while the park offered a turnkey move.
http://desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070312/NEWS05/703120334/-1/SPORTS09
L.A. Zoo to retire elephant to animal sanctuary
Animal rights activists praise decision on Ruby, which ends months of speculation on her fate.
By Carla Hall, Times Staff Writer
March 12, 2007
The Los Angeles Zoo is expected to announce today that it is retiring its female African elephant, Ruby, to an animal sanctuary in Central California.
The decision ends months of speculation over whether the pachyderm would go to another zoo or a sanctuary, and was praised by animal rights activists who lobbied for several years for her retirement to a preserve.
Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, who has expressed concern about the conditions for elephants at the L.A. Zoo, plans to discuss the decision to relocate Ruby at a news conference today.
"I am very pleased that the city and the zoo recognize that it's best to send Ruby to a sanctuary, which unlike a zoo can provide the vast space and natural conditions that elephants need," Catherine Doyle, elephant campaign director for In Defense of Animals, said Sunday night.
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-ruby12mar12,0,4279339.story?coll=la-home-headlines
Moscow Zoo changes to spring schedule
12.03.2007
With the beginning of spring Moscow Zoo has prepared some surprises for visitors. First of all the zoo administration has prolonged working hours – now the zoo works daily (except Monday) 10am-18pm; ticket offices work till 5pm.
Secondly, the zoo has opened a website moscowzoo.ru, which contains not only maps, lists of animals, and other visitor information, but also web cameras set in two cages with image updating every 20 seconds. Unfortunately, English version of the website is not available, but one can find the web cameras here.
One more innovation is a new giant monument on the central square of the zoo – a figure of the Moa bird which became extinct 300 years ago.
Source: www.kp.ru
http://www.russia-ic.com/news/show/3587/
Maryland Zoo's Baby Penguin Gets Novel Operation
When workers at the zoo noticed the penguin stumbling shortly after he was born they began a slew of tests to examine his condition. Veterinarians found the bird's vertebrae were angled abnormally. At first they thought he might still be able to function normally because they had seen a similar but less-serious problem before.
"We were wrong; he started having trouble walking and eventually was tumbling over," Bradford said.
Zoo veterinarians sent the yet to be named penguin - whose coat will remain gray until he reaches adulthood - to get an MRI at the IAMS Pet Imaging Center in Northern Virginia. The imaging confirmed what veterinarians feared, the hump on his back was the result of vertebrae misalignment, resulting in the need for a complicated procedure - the first of its kind for a penguin.
http://penguinsland.blogspot.com/2007/03/maryland-zoos-baby-penguin-gets-novel.html
Miller Park Zoo could get new hospital
03/12/2007 04:43:48
Miller Park Zoo is hoping to build a new animal hospital so animals can get more medical care in-house. Tonight, the city council will vote on a plan for a $400,000 facility for the zoo. Zoo director John Tobias says now, the zoo has a few lab rooms in the basement of the zoo, and often has to take animals across town to a clinic. In that case, the animals are exposed to many other diseases. He says the zoo needs its own hospital...
Listen:
Tobias says the new hospital would include a treatment room, operating room, recovery room, quarantine space, and facilities for staff. It would go west of the feline exhibit, and would have a window into the treatment room so that visitors can watch procedures being done. Tobias hopes the hospital could be finished by September.
The new hospital is included in phase one of the Zoo's Operation Roar, which will also result in the renovation of the Katthoefer Animal Building, built in 1914.
http://www.wjbc.com/wire2/news/00396_Zoo-Hospital-1-web_054358.htm
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