Let's talk about how Bush plans to outsource even more jobs. This time it longshoremen, along with outsourcing our National Port Security.

Canada's Prime Minister Stephen Harper (C) gestures while standing with President Bush and Mexico's President Felipe Calderon following a joint news conference at the two-day North American Leaders' Summit in Montebello, Quebec August 21, 2007. (click here)


This is the Port of Oakland (click here). It sees a huge amount of container traffic everyday. Longshorement work at this facility.


These are longshoremen reporting for work. One of the best paying jobs for unskilled labor in the USA. They have a vested interest in the country's national security.

In actuality how much is there to say, except, NO MORE BUSH !!!!!

George Walker Bush hopes to build ports in Mexico that will directly result in lay offs of workers in the USA and will cause their unions to be incompetition for wages. Bush is planning on closing down the ports of the USA and replacing them with imports from Mexico that will be transported by substandard trucks on 'superhighways' between Mexico and Canada.

Bush is risking national security for one purpose; to defeat and demoralize even further American labor. Ruthless to the core. The borders between the USA and Mexico can't stop illegal immigration now. We have no border security as it is and Bush is going to exploit cheap labor in Mexico to facilitate the movement of cargo coming into the USA and passing through to Canada.

I don't think so. I don't really see the best interest of Americans here at all. Not American Labor and not American National Security. No Mexican will be interested in securing the USA away from danger as the American Laborers of the Longshoremen already do.

A Fear of Foreign Investments (click here)
STEVEN R. WEISMAN

WASHINGTON, Aug. 20 — For years, the Bush administration has shrugged off concerns about the trillions of dollars that the United States owes to China, Japan and oil-producing countries in the Middle East, arguing that these debts give no undue leverage to foreign governments. But at a time of global financial instability, the administration has started to worry that foreign governments are increasingly converting their dollar holdings into investment funds to acquire companies, real estate, banks and other assets in the United States and elsewhere. The fear is that these so-called sovereign wealth funds could destabilize markets or provoke a political backlash. In response, the Bush administration is pressing the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank to examine the behavior of these funds, which control up to $2.5 trillion in investments, and develop possible codes of conduct for them. Among the proposed rules would be an obligation to disclose investment methods and to avoid interfering in a host country’s politics. Officially, the United States welcomes all investments, except those that could compromise national security. “Money is naturally going to gravitate toward dollar-based assets because of the strength of our economy,” the Treasury secretary, Henry M. Paulson Jr., said in an interview. “I’d like nothing more than to get more of that money. But I understand that there’s a natural fear that they’re going to buy up America.” ...

Let's talk ... about ... Crandell Canyon Tragedy

A Carbon County ambulance arrives at the Crandall Canyon coal mine Thursday near Huntington, Utah.

There has to be a new reality for the USA following this mine disaster. I realize people are going to be annoyed for me to say once again this is a human rights abuse, but, it is. No different than China's dangerous mines are human rights issues.

The Crandell Canyon Mine operation is especially egregious because Murray Mining knew exactly how dangerous the mine was. The CEO, Bob Murray (click here) called on so-called experts to reassess the mine and make recommendations to get every coal nugget out of the mountain.

As a result, under this 'can do' administration in DC, the mine operator was allowed to engage in 'retreat mining' knowing full well the procedures used in this mine were extreme and never proven to work. The expert Murray Mining exploited must have been paid handsomely to come up with a strategy to get the coal out of Crandall Canyon.

Associated Press
Mine Owner's Companies Fined Millions (click here)
By JOE MILICIA
08.09.07, 1:59 PM ET

CLEVELAND -
The chairman of the company that co-owns the Utah coal mine where six workers are trapped has campaigned to improve mine safety - but his companies have incurred millions of dollars in fines over the last 18 months.
Robert Murray's Cleveland-based Murray Energy Corp. has 19 mines in five states that vary widely in the number of fines, citations and injuries, according to an Associated Press review of federal Mine Safety and Health Administration records.
At Utah's Crandall Canyon mine, where the fate of the miners was unknown after a cave-in Monday, the safety record was remarkably good, said R. Larry Grayson, a professor of mining engineering at Penn State University.
"The injury rate for the last four years has been significantly below the national average," Grayson said.
But a mine in southern Illinois owned by Murray subsidiary American Coal Co. has had a significant number of recent violations.
The Galatia mine, which has about 850 workers and produced 7.2 million tons of coal in 2006, has 869 violations so far this year, leading one mining expert to believe the company is "just going for the production and not going for the safety."
Bruce Dial, owner of Dial Mine Safety, a consulting company near Charlotte, N.C., said the high number of fines, $1.46 million so far in 2007, indicates the mine is not taking the necessary steps to remedy problems.
The mine has accumulated more than $3 million in fines dating back to 1999. Records show Galatia is contesting many of the fines.
On June 4, MSHA inspectors cited and fined the mine $54,000 for violating regulations on the accumulation of combustible materials....

What is more egregious is the fact the mine was having seismic activity while rescue workers insisted on proceeding when all hope should have been resigned to reality. I can't believe Murray Mining proceeded with more invasive work in that mine in the face of already losing six men. The mine operators had to know how very dangerous it was as they had that information before the current mining efforts were even conducted. In my opinion, fines aren't doing anyone any good here and these operators need to be held responsible for manslaughter.

A tragic setback: 3 rescuers killed (click here)
6 others hurt; rescue efforts may be suspended
Paul FoyAssociated PressAug. 17, 2007 12:00 AM
HUNTINGTON, Utah - A disastrous cave-in Thursday night killed three rescue workers and injured at least six others who were trying to tunnel through rubble to reach six trapped miners, authorities said. Mining officials were considering whether to suspend the rescue effort.It was a shocking setback on the 11th day of the effort to find miners who have been confined at least 1,500 feet below ground at the Crandall Canyon Mine. It's unknown if the six are alive or dead.Six of the injured rescuers were taken to Castleview Hospital in Price. One died there, one was airlifted to a Salt Lake City hospital, one was released and three were being treated, said Jeff Manley, the hospital's chief executive....

In recent months the Bush crony network has been promoting the 'idea' of converting coal to oil. This is turning coal into gold in it's value and is the driving force behind the human rights issues now faced by miners and their families. The more valuable coal is, the more chances USA mining companies will take to extract every nugget.

Coal-to-oil fuel hits the road (click here)

BY SHAWN A. HESSINGERTAMAQUA BUREAU CHIEFshessinger@republicanherald.com
07/21/2007
AUBURN — On the recommendation of his 14 year-old-son, Waste Management & Processors Inc. President John W. Rich Jr. decided to take his company’s plan for an $800 million coal-to-oil plant in Gilberton on the road.
The result was an 1,800-mile trip last week through at least seven states, winding up at the Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet, Ill., using a diesel fuel similar to one the plant would produce in an effort to spread the word.“I was talking to him and I said if you want to promote this thing why don’t you just get a truck, put some bumper stickers on it and drive it across the country,” said John Rich III.His father did him one better, having slogans promoting the company’s proposed gasification and Fischer-Tropsch Liquefaction process put on the side of a diesel pickup and setting out with his teenage son to put the idea into action.Rich Jr.’s company hopes to secure a federal loan guarantee for 70 to 80 percent of the construction costs for the facility in order to attract investors for the project.The company claims the new plant would be the first to combine the gasification and Fischer-Tropsch Liquefaction processes to convert waste coal into a zero-sulfur, environmentally-friendly diesel fuel.Though the younger Rich had been accustomed to accompanying his father on family vacations, the promotion trip he had dreamed up turned out to be a bit different.The trip included five days of driving with stops in Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., and travel through Virginia, West Virginia, Missouri and Kentucky.Days generally began at 8 a.m. and ended at 8 p.m. with most of the time spent on the road....

The Bush White House is dedicated to his cronies. If this type of abuse is not stopped now it will surmount to unlawful deaths while the Republican money machine continues to crank out more and more rhetoric of coals virtues. These are ruthless people without conscience and they are determined to have their way no matter how dangerous it is, how extreme the idea and how poorly thought out the schemes are. The American people don't need ruthless business executives playing footsie with ruthless Republicans at the expense of their dignity and their lives. Regulation and sanity need to return to American industry and it has to happen now. See, Murray Mining has so much debt from fines it will go to all extremes to continue to operate when in fact these mines should all be closed and chock it up to lives saved.


USA: Oil Money Gushing into Bush Campaign (click here)
Industry Seeks Breaks on Drilling, Pollutionby H. Josef Hebert, Associated Press
July 3rd, 2000
WASHINGTON -- While locked in a string of disputes with the Clinton administration, the oil industry has pumped more than $1.5 million into George W. Bush's campaign. Oil companies will be seeking Bush's help on a range of issues, should he be elected president.
Recent high gasoline prices have brought energy policy into the campaign as Democratic presidential contender and Vice President Al Gore tries to tar Bush, the Republican governor of Texas, as a pawn of Big Oil. Bush, a former oilman from Midland, Texas, says it isn't so.
But across a range of issues -- from drilling in an Alaskan wildlife refuge to new rules setting the price of oil taken from federal land to whether to pursue a controversial international agreement on climate control -- oil-company executives believe a Bush administration would be more receptive to their objectives...

The Crandell Canyon Mining Tragedy on the heels of the Safo Mine Tragedy have the 'true' experts and mining unions determined to be heard and have their lives protected.

Coal Mining Industry Attracts Attention After Utah Tragedy (click here)
8/23/2007 2:26:33 PM As hope for finding the trapped miners in Utah is all but lost, a nation is forced to examine just how far it will go for energy. Our increasing utilization of coal is seen by the Bush administration as an alternative to dependence on international oil. What do we know about this energy source? It powered the United States through the industrial revolution, transforming our nation into a manufacturing powerhouse. However, as private consumption increases, questions about the availability of and the methods used to extract this natural resource weigh heavily on Americans' minds.
The United States is commonly referred to as “the Saudi Arabia of coal.” Currently, America has more than 200 years of coal reserves at the current burn rate, though it is important to note that the rate of consumption continues to increase. Coal has been used to power industry within America since the Industrial Revolution in the mid 1800's.

It's time the Mining Unions were listened to and safety conditions made to exceed expert recommendations. I like redundancy. Fines aren't enough to get mine owners to put lives first. They need real penalities including trials for the deaths to employees exposed to unproven methods that allow them to gamble on their ability to save miners and protect them in the first place.

Miner: ‘I have to get that paper’ (front page) (click here)
BY MAGGIE TROWE PRICE, Utah—“I hope everyone buys that paper. We need unions,” a miner’s daughter said as she bought a copy of the Militant at an August 19 outdoor vigil and fund-raiser in Huntington for the families of the six miners trapped in the Crandall Canyon mine.
The mood at the gathering, where relatives of the miners addressed several hundred people, was one of anger at the mine owners and the federal mine safety agency.
Over the past two weeks supporters of the Militant have fanned out through the coal-mining communities of Price, Huntington, Orangeville, Helper, Wellington, East Carbon, Carbonville, and Sunnyside to join in the discussions taking place among miners and other working people.
A miner coming off shift at the unionized Consol mine near Emery said, “You’ve got it right there!” when he saw the Militant headline, “Safety is a union question! No miner has to die!”...

The Bush White House and the past majority Republican House and Senate are zealots. They used the excuse that this is the year 2000 and later and we can do anything with technology. They used the excuse that the USA was mired in regulations that were outdated and costing companies profits they should not have to lose. As a result all the 'stops' came off and those, like Murray Mining, willing to push their limits were allowed to do so. This without any proof of any technology being able to sustain safe working conditions for miners. It was all 'by chance' and Murray Mining was conducting experimental mining at Crandall Canyon while the Bush Administration was looking the other way so some Republican could come forward to say, see I told you those Commy Liberals and all their regulations were wrong. Bush's administration was just waiting to pin a metal on the lapel of Murray Mining as the most daringly innovative company in the USA.

So much zealots are they and afraid of the impact these tragedies will cause on the mining industry, Bush is now pushing mountain top mining in hopes America will continue to see the profits to be made in an open pit rather than a closed mining shaft.


New Regulations for Mountaintop Mining Not So New (click here)

Friday, Aug 24, 2007 - 05:24 PM
Updated: 05:55 PM

By Megan Skaggs
A new regulation issued by the Bush Administration clears up a practice that has been used for years by mountaintop coal mining companies.
Mountaintop mining, strip mining and even surface mining as it is known, is the process of mining from the top of a mountain instead of from the inside. During that process, waste such as rock, sediment and soil are removed. For years, coal companies have dumped that waste into hollows and what they call "dry ditches", or streams that are dried up or don't flow all year long.
Bill Caylor, President of the Kentucky Coal Association tells Action News 36, that the new regulation issued Friday just clears up the language in previous rules. The original language prohibited dumping in or near bodies of water or streams, which Caylor said the industry has always considered "flowing streams". With the new regulation, that wording is cleared up, and coal companies are still allowed to dump their waste into so-called "dry streams".
Dave Cooper a member of the Sierra Club and Kentuckians for the Commonwealth said the practice of mountaintop mining is damaging not only the mountains of Kentucky, but also our water here in central Kentucky. He said even dumping the waste in the so-called "dry streams" puts sediment and metals in the runoff. Cooper said that runs into the Kentucky River, a major water source for central Kentucky. He tells Action News 36 that the practice of mountaintop mining should stop before our mountains are gone.
Caylor said the coal industry is concerned about the environment and that they are following the rules and regulations provided for them. However, he tells Action News 36 that not being able to dump the rock and soil waste from mountaintop mining or even conventional mining would greatly impact the coal industry here in Kentucky.

There are good people out there with a conscience for industry, the need for energy, the recognition of people needing to make a living and for the environment. We have to not only find them, but, enforce the fact our government is able to regulate and protect citizens from ruthless people, government and practices.

A Different Kind of Zoo - Buttonwood Park Zoo

Morning Papers - continued...

Zoos

Former Coke exec loves running Zoo Atlanta
Zoo CEO selling expansion planBy MARK DAVISThe Atlanta Journal-ConstitutionPublished on: 08/19/07
Dennis Kelly was the picture of jocular composure as he stood greeting the formally clad visitors at this year's Beastly Feast, Zoo Atlanta's major fund-raiser.
Hello! How are you? So good to see you! A handshake here, a quick kiss on the cheek there. Kelly, the zoo's president and CEO, moved as confidently as a big cat.

http://www.ajc.com/news/content/living/stories/2007/08/20/zoo0820.html


A trip to the zoo
Exotic animals are long-term commitments
By Melanie TypaldosDaily Record Columnist
I often drive the stretch of Hwy. 290 leading from Dripping Springs to Austin. Along that road is a sign that always catches my attention, an arrow pointing down Circle Drive with the words “Austin Zoo.” I love animals and I love zoos but somehow I never had the time to stop. This weekend, I decided to finally go and to bring my son and his family along.Celeste, who is eight, was excited about going to the zoo. She’s a cat person and really wanted to see the big cats, especially the tigers. The rest of us wanted to see the pair of adult capybaras the zoo was reputed to have.Zoos these days all have missions. Of course one mission is to educate the public about the beauty and diversity of life on Earth. In addition to that mission, the Austin Zoo is a rescue zoo. Over 90 percent of their 300 animals have been rescued. A sign at the entrance admonishes visitors not to keep exotic animals as pets. Well that put a stop to me telling them I have a pet capybara.

http://www.sanmarcosrecord.com/features/local_story_236111934.html


Turn of public sentiment against horse slaughtering bridles some zoos
McClatchy Newspapers
Published Thursday, August 23, 2007
SEATTLE - Animal-rights activists campaigning to end horse slaughter in America have run up against an unexpected friend of the horse-meat industry: the nation’s zoos.
After Texas shut down two horse-slaughter plants in January, the last plant in the country is fighting off closure in Illinois courts. And Congress is again considering a federal horse-slaughter ban that passed the House of Representatives last year.
That leaves tough decisions for America’s zoos, which have long fed horse meat to carnivorous animals. Although several zoos have dropped horse meat in favor of beef in recent years, zoos continue to be the largest consumers of horse meat in the United States.

http://columbiatribune.com/2007/Aug/20070823Busi011.asp



New entrance proposed for KC Zoo would improve visitors’ access
Visitors have complained for years about how exhausting it can be to get around the sprawling Kansas City Zoo. In response, officials recently have rerouted walkways and expanded transit choices within the zoo.
Now comes the latest encouraging plan to entice more guests: a privately financed, $10.75 million makeover that would feature a more convenient zoo entrance with nearby animal exhibits for visitors to enjoy.
The entrance would include a visitor drop-off area and a close parking lot. These improvements would eliminate the long, meandering pathways from parking areas to the front entrance.
The upgrades call for river otters and trumpeter swans near the entrance.

http://www.kansascity.com/340/story/239783.html



San Francisco Zoo Welcomes Four New Penguins

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) -- Four new penguins moved into their new home at the San Francisco Zoo Monday.
The four, 12-week-old Riley, Charlie, Thistle and Gnocchi, waddled onto Penguin Island before a crowd of curious onlookers and enthusiasts. They had spent two months in fish school, where they learned how to swim and feed just like the old-timers on the island.
The San Francisco Zoo has one of the most successful breeding colonies of Magellanic penguins in captivity, having fledged approximately 150 chicks since 1985.
The Zoo’s penguins can be found on Penguin Island, located across from the Lion House.

http://www.kcbs.com/pages/833697.php?contentType=4&contentId=819229


Zoo's pride grows
20 August 2007
Australia Zoo, as everyone knows, is home to everything from kookaburras to elephants and crocodiles.
Yesterday, a pair of new creatures was added to the menagerie – lions.
Not the Transvaal or Massai varieties, but lions of the Brisbane kind.
Brisbane Lions players, including Daniel Merrett and Robert Copeland, were on hand for the club’s annual members' day, getting friendly with some of the zoo’s residents.
“It’s definitely not

http://www.thedaily.com.au/news/2007/aug/20/zoos-pride-grows/


Seattle Zoo Genericizing “Africa”?
I must confess that prior to coming to Africa, if I’d seen this story in the press I might’ve dismissed it out of hand as an artifact of America’s obsession with political correctness. After living for a year in Cameroon, however, I’ve not only gotten to know Africans from all corners of the continent but also developed an awareness of the vast differences between the various tribes and ethnic groups within the country I now call home. So how do I respond to the Woodland Park Zoo’s “Maasai Journey”? Call it a cop out, perhaps, but I’ll reserve judgment since I haven’t seen the exhibit myself. If anyone at home has visited it or is planning a trip to the zoo soon, your comments are welcome.
Still, I think the zoo could do a lot worse. To wit, here are a couple of photos I took of the “Africa Lounge” in SeaTac International airport on June 12th of 2006, the day I left for Peace Corps orientation in Philadelphia:
Note the faux weathered, rusty corrugated tin roof, zebra-patterned lampshades and ceiling fans. The menu features an item dubbed the “Zulu Pulled Pork Platter” or some such thing, too. Now that’s expropriation of a generic, sanitized “Africa” if I’ve ever seen it!

http://www.27months.com/?p=88



Eight men get 11 years in jail for killing zoo tiger in Vietnam
HANOI, August 21 (RIA Novosti) - A court has sentenced eight people who killed a tiger in a zoo in Can Tho province, in southern Vietnam, to up to 11.5 years in prison, local media said Tuesday.
The poachers, who also face a fine of about $28,000, broke into the zoo last June and poisoned the tiger with cyanide. They then hurried to cut and disembowel the 150-kilogram (300-pound) animal right in the zoo so that the poison did not taint the tiger's meet and bones.
The man who bought the carcass for nearly $15,000 received a suspended sentence of nine months.
Tiger bones, cooked into glue, are used as a traditional Asian medicine with a black market value of about $5,000 per kilogram. It is used as treatment against infections and as a painkiller.
In Asian countries, tiger bones are also believed to steady nerves, increase intelligence, cure forgetfulness and dislodge bones stuck in the throat. A tiger skull is said to prevent nightmares and keep evil away.

http://en.rian.ru/world/20070821/72768895.html



Gifford Zoo put on whale of a celebration for Siri
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
DICK CASE
POST-STANDARD COLUMNIST
The last time I was at Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park I stopped at the elephant pen and had a talk with Siri. She's the Asian elephant who had that fine ritual of passage over the weekend: She turned 40, officially.
Siri talks with her trunk.
She loves to be petted.

http://www.syracuse.com/articles/news/index.ssf?/base/news-0/118768701084100.xml&coll=1



Community Event: Autism Family day at The Zoo
Posted at 10:04 am on Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts will host an Autism Family Day at Boston’s Franklin Park Zoo on Saturday, September 15 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The event, which combines outreach to the entire community with family fun activities, is open to the public.
In addition to all the regular zoo attractions, Autism Family Day will offer a variety of games, music and art activities, clowns and other performers. There will be performances by the Higashi Jazz Band as well as noted jazz pianist Matt Savage. Opening ceremonies will begin at 11:15 a.m.
Franklin Park Zoo is an accessible facility. Parking is free, and the Zoo can also be reached by public transportation.

http://urbanpride.org/?p=171


Penguins at the zoo

http://blog.syracuse.com/yourphotos/2007/08/penguins_at_the_zoo.html


Expert calls for closure of zoo
Staff Reporter
Photo: S. Mahinsha UNDER SCRUTINY: D. Swaroop, head of the medicine division, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, who visited the city zoo on Monday to study the foot and mouth disease.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The city zoo should be kept closed to visitors for three to four weeks to allow for the complete elimination of the foot and mouth disease (FMD) virus that has claimed the lives of many animals, head of the medicine division Indian Veterinary Research Institute D. Swaroop said here on Monday.
He was speaking to presspersons during an inspection of various animal enclosures at the zoo. It can now be said that the FMD virus is under control; otherwise there would have been more deaths of animals. Resorting to vaccinating animals against the virus can only have so much of an impact. The very act of giving vaccines can cause stress in the animals. Better animal management and greater stress on the hygiene front are what can help the zoo tide over the present situation.

http://www.hindu.com/2007/08/21/stories/2007082159090300.htm


Virginia Zoo's African lions are new parents

At least two lion cubs were born at the Virginia Zoo on Saturday to Zola and Mramba. Zola, the mother, was in a dense vegetation area of the exhibit Tuesday, protecting her cubs.

GENEVIEVE ROSS / THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT

By DEBBIE MESSINA, The Virginian-Pilot © August 21, 2007 Last updated 11:05 PM Aug. 21
NORFOLK
Worry turned to elation at the Virginia Zoo when keepers had trouble finding the lioness in her exhibit over the weekend, then discovered not only Zola but at least two lion cubs nesting outdoors in a briar patch against a rock.
Zookeepers were not aware that the African lion was pregnant by exhibit-mate Mramba. She showed no obvious signs.
"We were astounded," keeper Charlene Wright said.
Because mom is young - she just turned 3 last month - the cubs have a 50 percent chance of surviving, zoo director Greg Bockheim said.

http://content.hamptonroads.com/story.cfm?story=130740&ran=1286


New Penguins at the Zoo
They’re just so darn cute. Take a look at three of the four baby penguins that just moved into their new digs at the San Francisco Zoo yesterday. Riley, Charlie, Thistle, and Gnocchi (omg, too cute) are only 12 weeks old. Fresh out of “fish school,” these tuxedo-wearing chick magnets are living it up across from the Lion House on Penguin Island.
By the handsome looks of these birds, it’s no wonder that Penguin Island has the highest success rate of captive breeding. The 200-foot pool may not be as spacious as the original Fleishhacker Pool (circa the Fleishhacker Zoo), but we’re guessing that these new inhabitants will have plenty of room to eat, swim, and make whoopee. Besides, the Fleishhacker Pool was for frisky people, not penguins.
Have fun in your new home, little guys. Watch out for those mean ol' lions across the way.Image Credit: San Francisco Zoo

http://sfist.com/2007/08/21/aw_new_penguins.php


Okapi School at the Park
Posted at 9:04 am August 21, 2007 by Marcia Redding
Life has been very interesting lately for our okapi population. At the Wild Animal Park, we are fortunate enough to have a specialized piece of equipment called the Okapi Restraint Box (ORB). This consists of a padded stall with a moveable wall to limit the animal’s movement, and access doors on both sides as well as the front and rear panels. The animals aren’t physically restrained: we train them to accept the ORB as a positioning tool, using positive reinforcement. One of the biggest challenges has been discovering each animal’s favorite reward. Their tastes are surprisingly individual; what works for one does not necessarily motivate the others.

http://www.sandiegozoo.org/wordpress/default/okapi-school-at-the-park/


There's Still Time to Experience TOUCH! and DINOSAURS!
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo's special exhibits open until September 16
Summer may be winding down, but there's still time to experience the hugely popular DINOSAURS! and TOUCH! exhibits at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. The two temporary exhibits remain open through Sunday, September 16.
So far this summer, more than 215,000 people have enjoyed TOUCH! Amazing Rays & Sharks, which gives visitors the unique opportunity to feel the smooth skin of small sharks and barbless stingrays. More than 180,000 people have experienced DINOSAURS! this summer, coming face to face with 15 life-size animatronic creatures around Waterfowl Lake.

http://www.clemetzoo.com/pressroom/index.asp?action=details&pressrelease_id=1261


Lake Superior Zoo to remember beloved polar bear on Sunday
Lake Superior Zoo is hosting a public celebration of Bubba’s life from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Sunday.
The polar bear died Aug. 8, perhaps from liver disease. He was 17 years old, and had been at the Lake Superior Zoo since 1990.
Sunday’s event is not a formal memorial service, but a time for people to gather at the zoo and reflect and celebrate Bubba’s life, zoo officials said.

http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/articles/rss.cfm?id=48584&forumcomm_check_return&freebie_check&CFID=50211032&CFTOKEN=22703169&jsessionid=8830b8faa96b19601210


Davidson students make zoo history (video)
Updated: 08/21/2007 03:01 PM
By: Adrianne Flores
Tuesday was a historic day for students at Davidson County Community College. The school launched its first Zoo and Aquarium Associates Degree program at the Animal Discovery Zoo.
GREENSBORO -- Tuesday was a historic day for students at Davidson County Community College. The school launched its first Zoo and Aquarium Associates Degree program at the Animal Discovery Zoo.
"It is going to be a one of a kind in the state of North Carolina, fifth in the nation," explained Glenn Dobrogosz, the executive director
Biology professor Mark Stevens says the Dirty 30, as they may soon be called, will learn about every aspect of being a zookeeper from the cute and cuddly to the messy.
"The students need to realize that a professional zookeeper has many different hats that they wear," said Stevens.

http://news14.com/Default.aspx?ArID=586245


Vote on zoo bond awaits school-funding decision
By Jeremiah StettlerThe Salt Lake Tribune
Article Last Updated: 08/21/2007 03:46:28 PM MDT
Posted: 3:48 PM- Utah lawmakers probably won't mention Hogle Zoo during Wednesday's special legislative session. The east-side animal park isn't even on the agenda. But Hogle's hopes for a $65 million makeover have everything to do with the Legislature, which may decide Wednesday whether to equalize funding for school buildings countywide. So what do lions, tigers and bears have to do with constructing new elementary schools?

http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_6680583


Hogle Zoo Bond Fate Tied to Smaller School District Success
Aug 21, 2007 by Julie Rose
(KCPW News) What do zoo animals and East-side school kids have in common? Well, their destinies are linked in the minds of several members of the Salt Lake County Council, including Mark Crockett:
"I would be opposed to property tax increases except for education or parks and trails," says Crockett. "Therefore, I can't vote for the zoo unless I think there's better school funding in place."The County Council today delayed once more a decision on a 65-million dollar bond request from Utah's Hogle Zoo. Zoo officials say they need the money now to avoid escalating construction costs as they move forward with zoo improvements.

http://www.kcpw.org/article/4213


Hogle Zoo bond won’t be on November ballot
By Leigh DethmanDeseret Morning News
Published: Aug. 23, 2007 3:09 p.m. MDT

The Salt Lake County Council opted Thursday to not let voters decide in November whether to issue a multimillion-dollar bond to pay for improvements at Hogle Zoo.
Zoo officials wanted the $65 million to build a new aquarium complex, a gorilla forest expansion, African savanna and large polar bear exhibits, a renovated penguin enclosure and an "enhanced" south entrance with 400 more parking spots.

http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695203723,00.html


A larger zoo
Public Forum Letter
Article Last Updated: 08/18/2007 12:47:37 PM MDT
Is pushing the Hogle Zoo off the November ballot an "unfortunate reality"? Or is it a reality that 41 acres at the narrow mouth of Emigration Canyon does not a zoo make? By prioritizing building and renovating schools as its top issue, the Salt Lake County Council pushes the proposed Hogle Zoo tax to a secondary position (Tribune, Aug. 15). Perhaps this conflict of interests will cause the Salt Lake City and Salt Lake County councils to take another look at the unrealistic location of this crowded, caged, sunless and car-choked corridor that holds animals for viewing.

http://www.sltrib.com/opinion/ci_6658504


New black bear joins local zoo
BY STACEY SHEPARD, Californian staff writere-mail: sshepard@bakersfield.com
Tuesday, Aug 21 2007 8:40 PM
Last Updated: Tuesday, Aug 21 2007 8:43 PM
The public is invited to catch the first glimpse of the California Living Museum's newest resident -- a yearling black bear.
The 150-pound bear will make its public debut at 10 a.m. Thursday at the northeast Bakersfield zoo.
"We want the public to come out and welcome their new bear," said Lana Fain, the museum's zoo manager and curator. "This is a community zoo. It's not our bear, it's their bear."

http://www.bakersfield.com/102/story/218469.html


Sox visit the zoo
August 21, 2007 - 22:37:15 (4 days ago)
If you don't have plans Thursday and you want to take the little ones on one last trip before school starts, Thursday is White Sox Day at Brookfield Zoo.Jermaine Dye and A.J. Pierzynski will visit with fans and sign autographs at the Nature Stage from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.Southpaw, the White Sox mascot, also will be on hand to entertain fans.For directions to the zoo or for more zoo information, visit Brookfield's Web site here.

http://www.nwherald.com/blogs/goodsports/blog.php?id=884


Giant Pandas Lun Lun & Mei Lan at Atlanta Zoo

http://www.flixya.com/video/173717/Giant_Pandas_Lun_Lun__and__Mei_Lan_at_Atlanta_Zoo


Zoo keeps anxious eye on legislative session
Councilman says Hogle upgrade won't be on ballot while financial questions about schools are left unanswered
By Jeremiah Stettler
The Salt Lake Tribune
Article Last Updated: 08/22/2007 02:26:35 AM MDT
Utah lawmakers probably won't mention Hogle Zoo during today's special legislative session. The east-side animal park isn't even on the agenda. But Hogle's hopes for a $65 million makeover have everything to do with the Legislature, which may decide whether to equalize funding for school buildings countywide. So what do lions, tigers and bears have to do with constructing new schools? Higher taxes, according to some Salt Lake County Council Republicans who refuse to put the zoo's bond request on the fall ballot while financial questions persist about splitting the Granite and Jordan school districts.

http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_6685721



Australia Zoo adopts leading edge 3D access control technology
2007-08-22 10:04:54 - The world renowned Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland has installed a 3D facial recognition system to control access to its administration building.
…The system will help ensure a high level of security and provide peace of mind for Australia Zoo office staff. Zoo management is examining the possibility of linking staff access data into its timesheet and payroll system to streamline administration systems…

http://www.pr-inside.com/australia-zoo-adopts-leading-edge-3d-r204546.htm


One Less Panda At Chiba Prefecture Zoo
The intense summer heat has killed a lesser panda at a zoo in Chiba Prefecture, according to Kyodo News:
A 17-year-old male lesser panda has died of heatstroke at a zoo in Ichikawa, Chiba Prefecture, zoo officials said Wednesday. The lesser panda, Jiro, was found collapsed last Thursday after he went out from his air-conditioned chamber. He later returned to the chamber by himself, but died the next day, according to the officials.

http://www.japanprobe.com/?p=2579


Zoo staff make a fuss over fossa (video)
A Cornish zoo is celebrating after an endangered male fossa cub was born there for the first time.
The tiny cub, Geoff, was born at Newquay Zoo six weeks ago and has just been microchipped and sexed.
There are only about 100 fossas in zoos worldwide and only six zoos in the UK have them.
They look like cats but are actually part of the mongoose family. He was named after a retired member of staff who recently died, Geoff Gerry.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/cornwall/6955014.stm



Zoo celebrates birth of colobus monkey
By Amelia Nielson-Stowell
Deseret Morning News
Published: Aug. 22, 2007 12:08 a.m. MDT
It's just 5 days old, but Hogle Zoo's newest bundle of joy is already anxious to explore its Salt Lake home.
The newborn colobus monkey tries to wiggle away from mom Toledo, swipes mom's arm and watches big sister Macari play.
Saturday, inside her primate forest, Toledo gave birth to her fifth baby — a child she conceived with dad Henry. Zookeepers came into work that morning to find the little white fur ball clinging to mom.
Trying to make the process as natural and true to the wild as possible, zookeepers will not provide veterinary care or training for the little monkey until it is 6 months to 1 year old. They have not even gotten close enough to determine the sex.

http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695203189,00.html


New Giraffe Joins Taronga Zoo Tower
SYDNEY—Taronga Zoo today welcomed Jimiyu, an 18-month-old giraffe brought from Dubbo's Western Plains Zoo to join Sydney's tower of females.
A small crowd gathered to watch as the 700kg calf was unloaded from its custom-built truck container.
"It's a little bit heartbreaking," his handler Pascale Benoit said.
"There is a bond between Jimi and I.
"He put a lot of trust in me today, and I trusted him too. You do form a bond, but not a bond as such that you can't let go."

http://en.epochtimes.com/news/7-8-22/58940.html


Taronga Zoo denies mistreatment of rhino
August 23, 2007 - 6:29AM
Sydney's Taronga Zoo says the RSPCA has cleared it of mistreating a rhinoceros in the lead-up to its death.
Kua, a four-year-old single-horned female rhino, died on June 4 after arriving at the zoo from San Diego last October.
A Fairfax newspaper reported the rhino was "pregnant, emaciated and ulcerated" when she died with 70 litres of sand in her intestine.
Zoo spokesman Mark Williams said the article implied the zoo had "mistreated" the animal.

http://www.theage.com.au/news/National/Taronga-Rhino-was-pregnant-when-she-died/2007/08/23/1187462384782.html


Big wins for parks, regional trails, zoo
By Keith Ervin
Seattle Times staff reporter
JIM BATES / THE SEATTLE TIMES
Connecting the Sammamish River Trail, above, to the East Lake Sammamish Trail is among the highest-priority projects covered by Proposition 2, the expansion levy for King County parks and trails.
Two King County parks levies, one to maintain existing county parks, the other to enlarge and develop parks and support Seattle's Woodland Park Zoo, were winning handily at the polls Tuesday.
Each of the levies will raise an estimated $108.5 million over six years, for a total of $217 million.
"We're lucky we're in a community that really values parks and trails and values its Woodland Park Zoo investment," said County Executive Ron Sims, who convened a task force that proposed the levies.
The parks levies were among the top issues facing voters in a low-key election that also included primary battles for Seattle City Council and King County Prosecutor.
The election may have been most notable for when it was held.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/nationworld/2003847962_parkselex22m0.html


Zoo: Cardiac Problems Killed Dolphin
Associated Press 08.22.07, 4:45 PM ET
INDIANAPOLIS -
City zoo officials have determined that its 24-year-old Atlantic bottlenose dolphin died from cardiac problems.
Phoenix, a female dolphin, died June 24 of a problem similar to a heart attack, said zoo senior veterinarian Dr. Jeff Proudfoot.
Possible risk factors for the problem are similar to those of humans: genetics, infections, viruses or circulatory problems.

http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2007/08/22/ap4045440.html


Zoo still needs help
BY PAM BRANNON
Gulf Breeze News news@gulfbreezenews.com
The Zoo needs help. That's why Lauretta Aiken of Navarre said she decided to organize a brain storming session at the Holley-Navarre Fire station last week. She brought together some representatives of local and county organizations to hear what The Zoo needs and why it is in financial crisis.
Doug Kemper, Director of The Zoo, told the group of community leaders and media that The Zoo was on its way to a bright future, with more financial growth than ever before back in 2004 - before Hurricanes Ivan and Dennis hit.

http://www.gulfbreezenews.com/news/2007/0823/Front_Page/003.html



Inaction kills zoo’s chance for ballot bond
By Leigh Dethman
Deseret Morning News
Published: Aug. 23, 2007 12:17 a.m. MDT
Legislative action Wednesday — or the lack thereof — on education killed Hogle Zoo's chances of a $65 million bond on the November ballot.
Since lawmakers didn't solve a school construction "equalization" problem during a special session Wednesday, Republicans on the Salt Lake County Council refused to put a property tax hike for the zoo on the ballot.
"I hate to start turning my head to figure out where I'm going to spend some more money, as wonderful and great as the zoo is," until the construction funding problem is solved, Councilman Jeff Allen said. "I think that we need to do something for them eventually, I just don't think now is the time."

http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695203557,00.html



Giant panda Yang Yang has surprise for Austrian zookeepers: baby cub
VIENNA, Austria: Yang Yang — a giant panda on loan from China whose name means "Sunshine" — had a surprise for zookeepers at Schoenbrunn Zoo on Thursday: a baby cub.
Yang Yang gave birth to a cub that zookeepers estimated to weigh just 100 grams (3.5 ounces) and measuring about 10 centimeters (3.9 inches).
A photograph released by the zoo showed Yang Yang, a first-time mother, holding the tiny cub in her mouth and looking up toward the camera.
"'Yang Yang' means sunshine, and that's what she is," a broadly smiling zoo director Dagmar Schratter told reporters outside the panda enclosure.
The last time a panda was born in Europe was in Madrid, Spain, in 1982, the zoo said.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/08/23/europe/EU-GEN-Austria-Panda-Birth.php


Joburg zoomakes learning fun
Its Discovery Centre is the first of its kind at a Gauteng zoo; here the Johannesburg Zoo will nurture children's natural desire to learn and to play.
August 23, 2007
By Lesego Madumo
A ROWDY owl championed by singings birds and the clamour of visiting schoolchildren greeted the opening of Johannesburg Zoo's Discovery Centre, focused on wildlife conservation, on Wednesday, 22 August.
Established in the old restaurant building next to the zoo's public entrance, it is the first centre of its kind at a Gauteng zoo.

http://www.joburg.org.za/2007/aug/aug23_zoodiscovery.stm


Lowry Park Zoo Visits Ruskin Senior Center
By Mitch Traphagen
mitch@observernews.net
Aug 23, 2007 - 11:38:29 AM
Animals from the Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa paid a visit to the Ruskin Senior Center on May 20. The animals included a gopher tortoise, a hedgehog, a snake, a skink, a barn owl, a scarlet macaw and a very shy porcupine. The seniors were able to take a close up view of the unusual animals and learn about their lives. Above, the shy porcupine seems to warm up to one gentleman. The event was part of a grant from the Lowry Park Zoo, which provides 33 outreach sessions throughout Hillsborough County providing an experience elderly people may not otherwise be able to have. “The animals are a universal bridge for clients at all functions levels, said senior center manager Lynn Voss. “They just adore the animals.”

http://www.observernews.net/artman2/publish/News_amp_Community_30/Lowry_Park_Zoo_Visits_Ruskin_Senior_Center.shtml

continued...

Zoos, activists debate elephant living space

Bamboo, an African elephant, is seen in the one-acre elephant enclosure at Seattle's Woodland Zoo. The zoo has come under attack by activists who say elephants need more space to roam.By Andrei Pungovschi, AP

Animal rights activist Gayle Janzen protests against the living conditions of elephants in Woodland Zoo. Activists are asking that zoos build much larger enclosures, but zoos protest that quality of life means more than space.

Panda born in Vienna zoo
Aug 23, 2007 11:25 AM
Alexandra Zawadil Reuters
VIENNA – A giant panda gave birth to a cub in an Austrian zoo on Thursday, Europe's first such event in 25 years, officials said.
The cub was born in Vienna's Tiergarten Schoenbrunn zoo, 127 days after mother Yang Yang mated with male Long Hui, both on extended loan to Austria from China.
Caretakers spied the tiny cub, weighing just 100 grams (3.5 ounces) and measuring 10 cm (3.9 inches), on a surveillance camera after hearing tiny whimpering sounds in Yang Yang's den.

http://www.thestar.com/sciencetech/Science/article/249165


Austrian Zoo Finds Dead Panda Sibling
The Associated PressFriday, August 24, 2007; 1:43 PM
VIENNA, Austria -- The giant panda cub born in an Austrian zoo was actually a twin, but its sibling died, the zoo said Friday.
Staff at Vienna's Schoenbrunn Zoo detected the tiny carcass late Thursday while monitoring the mother, Yang Yang, and her newborn through a surveillance camera, zoologist Regina Pfistermueller said.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/08/24/AR2007082401159.html


Country Club safari gala to benefit zoo
BLOOMINGTON -- Maybe it's the allure of wearing a pith helmet and going safari casual to a gala held at the Bloomington Country Club. Or maybe it's the possibility of enjoying hors d'oeuvres with a meerkat.Either way, organizers say the annual event to support Miller Park Zoo will be a fun time that helps support a community gem.The gala, hosted by the Miller Park Zoological Society, is set for Sept. 8. Tickets are $75 and can be obtained by calling the zoo at (309) 434-2250. Deadline for reservations is 5 p.m. today (Friday).Money raised will go toward equipping the animal hospital under construction at the zoo. The $400,000 hospital is being paid for by the zoo's Operation Roar fundraising campaign. Operation Roar also will renovate the Katthoefer animal building.

http://www.pantagraph.com/articles/2007/08/23/news/doc46cde1ab30ebc949672154.txt


Piglets hog the limelight at ZSL London Zoo
Friday 24 August 2007
The pitter patter of tiny trotters can be heard at ZSL London Zoo this bank holiday, after the long awaited arrival of twin red river hoglets.
The two little piggies are already trotting around their enclosure snuffling for food, and exploring their new home.
The porky pair love giving proud parents Salvador and Bahiti the runaround - but dad Salvador is always happy to give them a snout in the right direction.
The piglets are currently reddy brown in colour with cream spots and stripes which act as excellent camouflage for the youngsters. In around two months these markings will fade and the piglets will develop the distinctive red, brown and white coat which inspires their name.

http://www.zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo/news/piglets,387,NS.html


Go ape at gorilla goodbye party at Zoo
Denver Zoo
7:56 a.m.
Rapunzel, with her 2-year-old daughter, Tinga, born in Denver, will return to the Los Angeles Zoo after living at the Denver Zoo since 2003. Two troops of gorillas are ready to return to California now that construction of their new exhibit is ready to open in November. A going-away party will be held Wednesday
By Rocky Mountain News August 24, 2007
Two troops of gorillas who have been hanging out at the Denver Zoo while their new exhibit is being built in California are preparing to end their Colorado summer.
The zoo will send them off with a wild bon boyage party at 10 a.m. Wednesday. They'll get to scarf down yummy treats, including Jello and Popsicles. Going-away cards from other Denver Zoo residents will be on display at the public event.

http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/local/article/0,1299,DRMN_15_5681545,00.html


CA facility offers to take AK elephant
By JAMES HALPINASSOCIATED PRESS WRITER
ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- A proposal is on the table to get Alaska's only elephant out of the state, and for the first time this summer the Alaska Zoo and animal rights groups could have something to agree on.
The Performing Animal Welfare Society, located in Galt, Calif., has offered to take Maggie and pay for her relocation costs, including air transportation, veterinary evaluations and professional training to prepare her for crate travel, zoo officials said Friday.
The facility would also pay for Maggie's keepers to travel with her to her prospective new home - 30 acres where she would live with nine other elephants. PAWS has also offered to fund a $100,000 grant for animal habitat improvements at the Alaska Zoo if an agreement is reached to relocate Maggie to its facility.

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/6420AP_AK_Alaskas_Elephant.html


Butterfly garden at Buttonwood Park Zoo attracts monarchs, swallowtails and plenty of humans, too
By Laura McLean
From the Ground Up
August 25, 2007 6:00 AM
August is here and butterflies are taking up residence at New Bedford's Buttonwood Park Zoo. Unlike the other animals, these winged beauties are free to roam far and wide. They can be seen hovering along stream banks, floating above exhibits and settling on flowers, adding movement and color wherever they go. Instinctively, they will settle among the larger creatures in their new home — the "Garden for the Butterflies," filled with the species of plants they love.
Work on the garden was begun three years ago as a component of the zoo's North American theme, according to Education Curator Gail Janeczek.
"We're seeing a lot of butterfly exhibits and gardens at zoos. They extend the lesson of biodiversity as well as serve an adjunct to our new focus on conservation," she said as we visited the garden on a recent day.

http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070825/LIFE/708250331/1011/TOWN10


Marghazar Zoo sees births of ostriches and peacocks
By Imran Naeem AhmadISLAMABAD: The population at Marghazar Zoo has seen a significant rise in recent months with the birth of three baby ostriches and as many as 13 peacocks.The birds were brought into public view for the first time on Friday as they took their first steps attempting to get familiar with the new surroundings.

http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007%5C08%5C25%5Cstory_25-8-2007_pg11_7


CA facility offers to take AK elephant
By JAMES HALPINASSOCIATED PRESS WRITER
ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- A proposal is on the table to get Alaska's only elephant out of the state, and for the first time this summer the Alaska Zoo and animal rights groups could have something to agree on.
The Performing Animal Welfare Society, located in Galt, Calif., has offered to take Maggie and pay for her relocation costs, including air transportation, veterinary evaluations and professional training to prepare her for crate travel, zoo officials said Friday.

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/6420AP_AK_Alaskas_Elephant.html


Zoo's baby elephant christened
UPDATED: 2007-08-25 02:46:09 MST
By KATIE SCHNEIDER
The Calgary Zoo's latest 308-lb. bundle of joy now has her own name.
A two-week old Asian elephant calf, born at 3:23 a.m. on Aug. 9, has been named Malti.
Zoo donor Nora Libin gave the little one its Hindi name, which means "moonlight," "to be brilliant," or "small fragrant flower," said zoo spokeswoman Laurie Herron.

http://calsun.canoe.ca/News/Alberta/2007/08/25/4445254-sun.html


Zoo to offer fun classes for preschoolers
Zoo to offer fun classes for preschoolersThe zoo is the place to be for preschoolers this fall.Mavis Thompson, a preschool teacher with more than 22 years of experience, is holding classes for 3- to 5-year-olds at ZooMontana beginning Sept. 6."I'm so excited," Thompson said. "I'm just going to make it fun. We're going to learn, but we're going to learn the fun way."

http://www.billingsgazette.net/articles/2007/08/25/news/local/29-classes.txt


Python kills three rare parrots at zoo
Snake was apparently smuggled into the Budapest facility
BUDAPEST, Hungry - A python that apparently was smuggled into the Budapest Zoo has killed three rare Kea parrots, officials said Friday.
It was unclear whether a visitor released the tiger python into the Keas' cage or whether someone released the 6-foot, 6-inch snake elsewhere in the zoo and it found the cage by itself, zoo spokesman Zoltan Hanga said.
Hanga said the zoo owned several pythons, but they had implanted microchips and all had been accounted for.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20323269/


Chennai zoo acquires 76 rare birds
From our ANI CorrespondentChennai, Aug 18: The Arignar Anna Zoological Park, located in Vandalur, 30 kilometers from Chennai has acquired 76 rare birds, including parakeets and hybrid pea fowls. The birds were brought from the Gemini birds farm in Tamil Nadu's Kancheepuram District to the Arignar Anna, also known as the Vandalur Zoo, recently to enrich their ongoing breeding programmes.

http://www.dailyindia.com/show/166602.php/Chennai-zoo-acquires-76-rare-birds


Sassy the Pig Sidebar 1
By Rachel Stern Special to the Signal
"A cat will look down on a man. A dog will look up to a man. But a pig will look you straight in the eye and see his equal."
- Sir Winston Churchill.
Potbellied pigs were first imported into the United States from Vietnam in 1985, intended for zoos. However, zoos soon found they had far too many, and they began selling them to pet stores. Owning a pot-belly became a fad, then a craze, and prices went through the roof. Today potbellied pigs still maintain a certain popularity, if not cachet, as pets.

http://www.the-signal.com/?module=displaystory&story_id=50177&format=html


Spy in the Nest Snoops on Bird Moms
Tracy Staedter, Discovery News
Aug. 20, 2007 — Ornithologists have a new way to snoop on bird behavior: an electronic egg that spies from inside the nest.
The egg is helping scientists understand how a large African bird — the kori bustard — and others, including the American flamingo, nurture their broods-to-be. The information should offer insight about the species and also give biologists better data on how to incubate real eggs artificially.
That ability could prove key to the survival of species like the kori bustard, which is in decline.

http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/08/20/electronicegg_tec.html?category=technology&guid=20070820093030&dcitc=w19-502-ak-0000



Woodland Park's snow leopard is star of appreciation day
By Steve Shay
Monday, August 20, 2007
Fourteen year-old Nadia, the zoo's only snow leopard, was the star attraction at Woodland Park Zoo's first annual "International Snow Leopard Appreciation Day" Saturday.Nadia pranced around her picturesque enclosure of trees and boulders as if showing off to the crowd of children, stroller-toting parents, and camera buffs. Nearby, experts in booths were on hand to answer questions about the proud cat.The zoo collaborated with the Snow Leopard Trust, an organization that raises awareness of the plight of the snow leopard, an endangered species. The Trust was founded by conservationist, and the zoo's former education director, Helen Freeman, in 1981. It is located about five blocks north of the zoo, in the historic Good Shepherd Center. The Trust, and zoo, hope that by piloting this event, other zoos worldwide will want to participate next year.

http://www.ballardnewstribune.com/articles/2007/08/20/features/features/feature03.txt


Zoo Bloopers
When you mix kids with animals, you get all kinds of funny results.

http://nature.tubelounge.com/147/kids-at-zoos-bloopers/


Two Chimpanzees Swing Into Detroit Zoo
Submitted by ruzik_tuzik on Tue, 2007-08-21 07:11.
Posted under:
Two chimpanzees have joined the Great Apes of Harambee at the Detroit Zoo. Nyani, a 16-year-old female, and Kiri, a 17-year-old male, joined the Zoo from the Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison, Wis. The pair’s arrival expands the Detroit Zoo’s chimpanzee population to 10, including three males and seven females.

http://www.huliq.com/31125/two-chimpanzees-swing-into-detroit-zoo


Waterlogging-a threat to zoo animals
18 Aug 2007, 0222 hrs IST , Sanjeev Kumar Verma , TNN PATNA:
First, it was the turn of city dwellers. Now, it appears to be that of animals living in the Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park here. The all-pervasive problem of waterlogging may pose serious problems to these animals as well. Facing threat are sections that house giraffe, rhino and sanghai deer as some unknown persons broke the zoo boundary wall to clear water accumulated in the adjoining residential areas. "We are trying to divert the water from entering the cage of these animals. The volume of water entering the zoo premises may cause problems if the Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) does not take corrective measures immediately," said zoo director Rakesh Kumar on Friday, adding that the PMC's attention has already been drawn towards the problem.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Cities/Patna/Waterlogging-a_threat_to_zoo_animals/articleshow/2289758.cms

Endangered California condor dies of lead poisoning
The Associated Press
Published: August 18, 2007
LOS ANGELES: An endangered California condor that was being treated at the Los Angeles Zoo for lead poisoning has died, a conservation group reported.
Tests showed the bird had 10 times the safe amount of lead in its bloodstream after it was caught at the Bitter Creek National Wildlife Refuge last month, according to Audubon California, an environmental and conservation group.
Only about 300 California condors remain in the world.
"Lead poisoning is a tremendous threat to these remarkable birds," said Glenn Olson, executive director of Audubon California.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/08/18/america/NA-GEN-US-Condor-Dead.php

PETA asks USDA to investigate handling of ex-fugitive monkey

The Associated Press
TUPELO — An animal rights group has asked federal inspectors to investigate the treatment of a now-famous escape artist monkey at a Tupelo zoo.
The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals this week filed a complaint with the U.S. Department of Agriculture against the Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo, claiming it provided inadequate confinement for its white-faced capuchin, Oliver.
The 9-year-old monkey escaped its cage twice this summer. It was caught both times and is now back in the park.The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service regulates the welfare of exotic pets.Park owner Dan Franklin said the allegations were unfounded.

http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070818/NEWS01/70818007/1002

Master plan would keep zoo a vital asset
Pat Quinn
Mike Robertson is a friend of mine and has been a member of The Zoo Northwest Florida for many years, and we appreciate his concerns ("We need a zoo ? but a better one," Viewpoint, Aug. 8). It might be enlightening for Mike to visit The Zoo and review our master plan and any other issues he would like to discuss.Let me address some of Mike's comments:Comment: "Northwest Florida needs a larger population to have a zoo."Response: Many small towns have excellent public and private zoological parks. For example, Springfield, Mo., is much smaller than the Pensacola area and has a wonderful zoo that is supported by the public and also subsidized by local government.Albany, Ga., has a much smaller metropolitan area and is subsidized annually by the city with $1.2 million. The annual attendance is about 60,000 people a year. The Zoo Northwest Florida has an annual attendance of some 150,000.

http://www.pensacolanewsjournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070819/OPINION/708190308/1020


PETA blames Tupelo zoo for monkey's three escapes
The Associated Press
TUPELO — An animal rights group has asked federal inspectors to investigate the treatment of a now-famous escape artist monkey at a Tupelo zoo.
The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals this week filed a complaint with the U.S. Department of Agriculture against the Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo, claiming it provided inadequate confinement for its white-faced capuchin, Oliver.

http://www.envirolink.org/external.html?itemid=200708191145280.79929



Mysore Zoo hosts new inmates

Monday August 20 2007 10:39 IST
MYSORE: A pair of Sarus Cranes and a male zebra arrived from Lucknow zoo to Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens here on Sunday.Though, a young female giraffe and female zebra were expected to arrive along with the newcomers, it was delayed due to unforeseen reasons.Both these animals will be brought to the Mysore zoo in a month or so. The zoo has given a pair of chimpanzees in exchange for the giraffe, Sarus Cranes and a zebra pair.There are three male giraffes in the Mysore zoo and an old female one.

The truth about the zoo
I have to take exception with the recent letter regarding the Binghamton Zoo. I have been visiting the zoo for the 10 years I have lived here, and while there have been some rough patches recently, culminating with the loss of accreditation, I could not disagree more about the current condition.
There are new animals, each exhibit now has a great sign describing the animal's background and habitat, the gardens are beautifully kept, and even the addition of Manley's concessions has improved things.
In our most recent visit, we saw a scheduled feeding of the spectacled bears, we came nose-to-nose with a grey wolf (through the Wolf Woods glass), and witnessed a group of young women volunteering their time to design a landscaping plan for the new upper playground. My son and I had no problem finding the tamarin family and the ball python alive and well in their exhibits.
I encourage families to visit the zoo and decide for themselves.
Michelle Williams
Windsor

http://www.pressconnects.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070820/OPINION/708200320/1005/OPINION

Local zoo became classroom for some summer students
Aug. 20, 2007
By Heather Healy
Contributor
It was 8 a.m. and summer vacation, but Adam Reimer was busy tending to the fish at Cameron Park Zoo.
Reimer, a Nacogdoches senior, is an environmental science major and was enrolled in Field School in Environmental Studies, a course held primarily at the zoo.
"My job is to select a specific species in the Cameron Park Zoo and observe its behaviors in a captive environment," Reimer said.

http://www.baylor.edu/Lariat/news.php?action=story&story=46376

continued...

Panda Celebrates Fourth Birthday at San Diego Zoo (video)

Woodland Park Zoo staff is feeling fenced in
By SUSAN PAYNTERP-I COLUMNIST
This year at Woodland Park Zoo has been, well, a zoo.
There was the tragic death of beloved (if no-longer baby) elephant Hansa and the blame and accusations that swirled even as tears still fell in the anguish of its aftermath.
Finger pointing by University of Washington professors and others began earlier this month and continues over the new Maasai Journey educational program, which includes actual Maasai as cultural interpreters. Objectors claim it makes an insulting, even racist exhibit out of living, breathing, thinking people of color.

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/paynter/328116_paynt20.html


Zoo recalls animal antics
Tales of stampeding elephants and escaped llamas abounded at Dudley Zoo as hundreds of people from across the country celebrated the attraction’s 70th birthday.
People with a soft spot for the zoo came from all over the UK mark the the landmark anniversary. They were treated to drinks and nibbles before browsing through a fascinating exhibition charting its history, with a range of old photographs and anecdotes on display.
Visitors were also treated to a hog roast, before the event was topped off with a giant birthday cake.

http://www.expressandstar.co.uk/2007/08/20/zoo-recalls-animal-antics/


Paintings by zoo animals to be auctioned off
Monday, August 20, 2007
Laura Johnston
Plain Dealer Reporter
Huck the sea lion chomps on the paint brush and wiggles his shiny head up and down, side to side, covering the canvas in purple. "Good, good," cheers his keeper, Tiffany Mayo. "Good boy!"
Like any other 5-year-old, Huck's a little rambunctious. He slides in and out of his private pool and slithers around his cage, barking and sputtering before taking up a brush with green paint to complete his work of art.
Huck's masterpiece -- along with 70 or so other pieces painted by Cleveland Metroparks Zoo animals and signed by their keepers -- will be sold Aug. 30. The Cleveland chapter of the American Association of Zookeepers is hosting a silent auction at the zoo to raise money for nonprofit conservation organizations.

http://www.cleveland.com/news/plaindealer/index.ssf?/base/cuyahoga/1187599868294660.xml&coll=2


Houston Zoo says goodbye to Bu
Houston Zoo lovers are saying goodbye to Bu the Southern white rhino who died late last week. Bu (short for Samburu) was a 4,000 pound Zoo celebrity and one of its oldest inhabitants at age 39.
Apparently, in a bit of zoo drama, Bu had fallen into depression after losing lifetime plutoni rhino pal Marci last March and never recovered. We'll miss the big guy. Does anyone else have 'The Circle of Life' stuck in their head right now?

http://houstonist.com/2007/08/20/houston_zoo_say.php


Download zoo coupon
Jennifer Merriman
August 20th, 2007 :: 11:20 AM
Des Moines Moms is offering a coupon worth $2 off admission to the Blank Park Zoo during the Scoop on Poop exhibit. At the last Family Friday Night at the Zoo, a wonderful woman let us know she couldn’t download the PDF coupon. If you are having problems downloading the zoo coupon, it’s probably because you don’t have a PDF reader. Adobe Reader is the most common and the download is free.
The woman also said others on the site were saying they had problems, but I can’t find where on the site. So if you have problems or see entries
with other people having problems, please let me know. And thanks for attending our Family Friday Nights!

http://blogs.dmregister.com/?p=8145

Dated:

Lions’ den to begin zoo revamp
Dudley Zoo has been given the go-ahead for a new £120,000 lions enclosure. The scheme has won approval from council planning chiefs and is the first stage of a major £100 million redevelopment at the Castle Hill attraction.
The work will allow visitors to get closer to the animals and could be built by the end of the year
Zoo chief executive Peter Suddock, said the development should prove the “mane” attraction.
“We’re obviously very pleased - and so are the lions,” he said.
“It is part of a series of moves and will allow us to move on to the many other exciting developments we have in the pipeline.

http://www.expressandstar.co.uk/2006/10/05/lions-den-to-begin-zoo-revamp/


Fulton Bridge closes: How do I get to Cleveland Metroparks Zoo?
CLEVELAND -- The Fulton Bridge which runs directly over the zoo closed Thursday.
The bridge will be torn down and a new one built in its place. The new bridge is expected to open in 2009.According to the Zoo, during construction, the main entrance to Cleveland Metroparks Zoo will remain open. The Zoo is advising visitors to allow extra travel time and to follow posted detour signs. To avoid possible traffic delays, the following routes are recommended:From I-71: Exit at West 25th Street and follow the Zoo signs. The Zoo is approximately one mile from the I-71 exit.

http://www.wkyc.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=57630


Zoo decides to close its elephant exhibit
Philadelphia Business Journal - October 5, 2006
The Philadelphia Zoo said Thursday it will close its elephant exhibit, saying it has insufficient capital funding to build a new, larger habitat.
Three African elephants will be moved to an expanded habitat at the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, while a fourth, an Asian elephant, will be relocated to the Elephant Sanctuary in Hohenwald, Tenn.

http://www.bizjournals.com/philadelphia/stories/2006/10/02/daily32.html


The Lake Superior Zoo's Accreditation Has Escaped
(AP) Duluth, Minn. The American Association of Zoos and Aquariums says it won't renew the zoo's five-year accreditation after a recent inspection. It's the first time the zoo has lost the status since getting it in 1985.The zoo has been the object of city belt-tightening in recent years.The most costly improvement called for probably is replacing an antiquated water-cooling and circulation system for the Polar Shores exhibit, home to polar bears Bubba and Berlin.

http://wcco.com/local/local_story_279084042.html


'Zoo animals' instructive for development pros
By Michele Linck, Journal staff writer
SIOUX CITY -- One-hundred-thirty economic development professionals, in South Sioux City for a conference, learned Thursday about the six "animals in the zoo" they should be learning how to tame. And they learned a corollary, the 10 rules for doing their jobs right.That's all according to Edward W. Hill, vice president for economic development at Cleveland State University. Hill was the keynote speaker for the fall conference of the Nebraska Economic Development Association, held Wednesday through today at the Marina Inn and Conference Center.

http://www.siouxcityjournal.com/articles/2006/10/06/news_business/local/c9f8395064a3d5db862571ff000ce59c.txt


Zoo Tycoon 2: Zookeeper Collection Fact Sheet
Product Overview: The "Zookeeper Collection" provides the ultimate zoo experience with three of the most popular titles from the award-winning "Zoo Tycoon" franchise, allowing players to step into their zoo where they will be face to face with 70 animals, hundreds of building objects and guests in a completely 3-D world. In "Zoo Tycoon 2", enhanced building options and more management choices allow players of all ages and skill levels to be even more creative in building and managing habitats and zoo attractions so that guests are happier and animals are more entertaining. With "Zoo Tycoon 2: Endangered Species", players will come face to face with some of the world's rarest animals while doing their part to bring these unique species back from the brink of extinction. Going on safari takes on a whole new meaning with "Zoo Tycoon 2: African Adventure", where gamers of all ages will experience firsthand the biodiversity of the African continent and the animals that live there.

http://home.nestor.minsk.by/game/news/2006/10/0613.html


Painting Competition at Patna Zoo to Mark Wild Life Week
Patna: October 6, 2006
Nearly a thousand young students from 16 schools in Patna participated in a drawing and painting competition at Patna's Sanjay Gandhi Botanical and Zoological Garden on Thursday to mark the national Wild Life week (October 2 to 8) and develop awareness of wildlife conservation among the children.The competition was held in two phases comprising four groups. Children studying in class III formed Group A, Group B with children studying between class IV to VI, Group C consisted of children from class VII to IX, and Group D had children studying in class X through XII.

http://www.patnadaily.com/news2006/october/100606/painting_contest_at_zoo.html


The Best Little Zoo in Bolivia
The best place to observe Bolivian family life is without doubt a Sunday at La Paz zoo. It is also the most incredible zoo I have ever visited.
The taxi from downtown La Paz cost less than £2 and was an experience in its own right. During the twenty-minute drive our driver pointed out President Evo Morales house complete with gun toting guards. As we drove out of the valley, leaving sprawling La Paz behind, he showed us where Bolivia’s richest residents live in a chic compound reminiscent of the OC set. “These people grew rich by corruption”, he said.

http://blogs.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/travel/2006/10/the_best_little_zoo_in_bolivia_1.html


Diana storm over zoo visit
Oct 6 2006
EXCLUSIVE by Deborah James Daily Post Staff
MEMORIES of Princess Diana were removed from Chester Zoo in preparation for a Royal visit yesterday
Staff took down a photograph of Diana and a plaque commemorating her visit to the zoo's chimpanzee house before the Duke of Kent arrived for an official tour.
The zoo last night insisted the decision was not influenced by any perceived rift between the Royal Family and Diana, who was formerly Countess of Chester.
understands the photograph and plaque were removed on advice from the office of the Queen's representative in the
region, Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire William Bromley Davenport.

http://icliverpool.icnetwork.co.uk/0100news/0100regionalnews/tm_headline=diana-storm-over-zoo-visit&method=full&objectid=17882141&siteid=50061-name_page.html


Zoo backs "rude" Walters
STEVE Irwin's close friend and manager John Stainton has leapt to the defence of Barbara Walters after the TV news queen was attacked in an email claiming she was a ``mean, angry, old dragon'' when she visited Australia Zoo last month.
The email, sent to New York media site Gawker, was from an unknown person purporting to be an employee at the late Irwin's zoo at Beerwah. It claimed Walters was "rude and nasty'' to staff while there to interview the Crocodile Hunter's widow, Terri. But Stainton yesterday rejected the claim, saying Walters was ``fantastic''. ``No one from the staff would have said that, I can assure you,'' Stainton said. ``She was a lovely, charming woman. I thought it was amazing she flew all that way out and turned up that morning and did an interview. I was really taken by it and so was Terri.''

http://www.news.com.au/sundaytelegraph/story/0,,20531372-5006002,00.html


Philadelphia Zoo Relocating Its Elephants
First Reported by Action News and 6abc.com
by Vernon Odom and Bob Monek
PHILADELPHIA - October 5, 2006 - As first reported by Action News on 6abc.com, the Philadelphia Zoo has decided to part ways with its elephants.

http://abclocal.go.com/wpvi/story?section=local&id=4630710


OCTOBER 5, 2006
The Zoo’s cats are out of the bag
Cats. The sleek, imperial, enduringly fickle members of family Felidae have captured the human imagination for thousands of years. By some cultures, cats were revered; by others, reviled. Whether admired or feared, cats have almost always been summarily misunderstood. It is not difficult to see why cats have so often been shrouded in mystery. They are preternatural superstars, superbly designed predators possessed of incredible agility and exquisitely honed senses. These traits are shared by all cat species. Meet the three that call Zoo Atlanta home:

http://www.the-stories.com/gbase/Expedite/Content?oid=oid%3A7165


Adopt a zoo animal, get tax relief
8 Oct 2006, 0203 hrs IST , TNN
HYDERABAD: You can now adopt a lion or tiger in the Nehru Zoological Park here and get an income tax exemption. Though the zoo authorities have been making a request to organisations, business houses and individuals to adopt animals kept there, the response has been largely lukewarm. And, those who came backed out because they would get no tax exemption. That is likely to change now. "We have been issued a PAN number from the income tax department and will soon seek tax exemption for those who adopt animals in the zoo,"Nehru Zoological Park director P Bhaskar Reddy told TOI here on Saturday.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/2116849.cms


Panda fed special moon cake in zoo of Jinan

http://english.people.com.cn/200610/07/eng20061007_309680.html

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