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Family FunFamily Fun

Birds of a Feather!Birds of a Feather!MEET OUR WINGED FRIENDSMEET OUR WINGED FRIENDS

Z Volume 15, Issue 2, Summer 2012

Editor: mary mcmillanDesign: Nesnadny + SchwartzContributing Photographers: roger mastroianni, Dale mcDonald

Cleveland Zoological SocietyChairman: robert J. rogersPresident: Virginia D. BenjaminExecutive Director: Elizabeth T. Fowler

Cleveland Metroparks ZooDirector: Steve H. Taylor

Z is published by the Cleveland Zoological Society for members and friends. An annual subscription is included in every membership. Family memberships, which offer free admission to Cleveland metroparks Zoo, are available at $72 and $95 annually.

Correspondence and address changes: 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, OH 44109. ©2012 Cleveland Zoological Society

How to Reach UsGeneral information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (216) 661.6500

Extensions:Zoo Society Executive Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3342Zoo Director. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3331membership. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4421ZooKeepers’ Circle membership. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3323Adopt an Animal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4440Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3325Corporate and Foundation Giving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4420Education Department. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3391Facility rentals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3389marketing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3338Travel Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4420Visitor Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3344Volunteer/Docent Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4494

Internet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ClevelandZooSociety.orgE-mail. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . info@ClevelandZooSociety.orgFax. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (216) 661.7764

Gift Shop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (216) 661.7603 Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (216) 398.5750Cleveland metroparks System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (216) 351.6300

Zoo Hours & RatesOpen daily, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Members: free admission

General Public: $12.25 adults; $8.25 junior (ages 2–11); children under 2 are free.

From memorial Day to Labor Day, Cleveland me-troparks Zoo and The RainForest are open weekdays 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday and holi-days from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Free days: mondays, residents of Cuyahoga County and Hinckley Township; Zoo only

This publication was printed at an FSC®-certified printer (Certifica-tion No. SW-COC-002546). The FSC Logo identifies products that contain wood from well-managed forests certified in accordance with the rules of the Forest Stewardship Council™. Soy-based inks; elemental chlorine free, acid-free, recycled and recyclable papers were employed throughout this publication.

FIND US ON

Dear Zoo Members and Friends, Connecting people with wildlife is at the core of our mission. We hope you’ll have many exciting adventures this year, returning often to visit your favorite animals and enjoy time with family and friends.

Changes big and small include continued work with our herd of African ele-phants; a new meerkat mob and nesting weaver birds; the debut of Persian ona-gers; an array of great new family programs; significant upgrades in diagnostic veterinary equipment; and the launch of Quarters for Conservation.

The best zoos are taking action for endangered species, both at home and around the world. Quarters for Conservation is designed to raise both awareness and funds for wildlife conservation, strengthening our existing program by leaps and bounds. Your small change can make a big difference for great apes and rhinos as well as local bats and butterflies.

We invite your participation in all of the above … and there is more on the horizon! With nearly 200 acres and 3,000 animals, plus 46,500 loyal household members and 1.3 million annual visitors, the Zoo is proud to be part of the Emerald Necklace.

Rated one of Northeast Ohio’s greatest assets, Cleveland Metroparks has a significant impact on our community’s quality of life. The Cleveland Metroparks levy, which covers a significant portion of the Zoo’s operating expenses and costs just $5 per month for the typical household, will come before voters in 2013. We will ask your support for the levy, which makes possible an excellent, affordable park system for all to enjoy.

See you at the Zoo!

—ELIZABETH T. FOWLER, CLEVELAND ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

—STEVE H. TAYLOR, CLEVELAND METROPARKS ZOO DIRECTOR

cover photo by roger mastroianni , above by Dale mcDonald

THe INSIDe SCOOP6 A culture of philanthropy

zfeatures

WILD FAMILy FUN 12 An adventure for everyone!

CONSeRvATION WITH A bIG C 14 More than a few ways to conserve

WHAT’S ZOO?4 The latest in Zoo news

ZOO CALeNDAR 10 August through October 2012

We CARe FOR ANIMALS18 Raising our sights for elephants

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bIRDS OF A FeATHeR 8 Meet our winged friends

Three marine mammals haveeye surgery Two sea lions and a harbor seal are recovering in the Sarah Allison Stef-fee Center for Zoological Medicine after successful eye surgery at the Zoo in April. The Zoo’s California sea lions Buzz and Mikey, and harbor seal Nemo, were operated on by a team of highly trained veterinary spe-cialists including ophthalmologist Dr. Car-men Colitz, of Aquatic Animal Eye Care in Florida, marine mammal specialist Dr. Mike Renner, formerly of Sea World, and veterinary anesthesiologist Dr. James Bailey, of Innovative Veterinary Medi-cine. They were assisted by Zoo veteri-narians Dr. Mike Selig and Dr. Albert Lewandowski and members of the Zoo’s veterinary and animal care team. The surgical team deemed the three proce-dures successful. Buzz, Mikey and Nemo are being monitored while they recuperate off exhibit.

Dr. Selig spent months coordinating the many challenges associated with the procedures to ensure optimal pre- and post-surgery care. Eye problems are very common in zoo pinnipeds (seals, sea lions and walruses) and the corrective surgery is considered delicate because pinnipeds are very sensitive to anesthesia and are susceptible to post-sur-gery infections. Zoo staff prepared the animals for their procedures by training them to accept injections and eye drops, breathe into an anes-thesia mask and become comfortable in an enclosure without a pool.

“The success of these procedures is due in no small part to the dedication our keepers and vet staff showed in getting the animals ready for their operations,” said Dr. Selig. “Their careful preparation, combined with the exper-tise of our three visiting specialists, gave us the best possible chance for success.”

Buzz, who is approximately 3 years old, had cataracts when he arrived at the Zoo in 2010.

His condition worsened recently, but the oper-ation should restore some vision in his right eye. His left eye had a detached retina, a com-plication of his cataracts. The procedure removed the cataract, but couldn’t restore vision in that eye. It did greatly reduce the inflammation in his left eye and will help avoid future problems. Mikey, who is 21, also suf-fered from cataracts in his right eye. Nemo, 25 years old, had lens surgery on both of his eyes.

Zoo saddened by death of African lion The Zoo was deeply sad-dened by the death of its female African lion. The 14-year-old lion, Chloe, was eutha-nized by the Zoo’s veterinary care staff this spring after medical tests determined she was suffering from advanced renal failure.

“We didn’t want Chloe to suffer,” said Zoo

Director Steve Taylor. “So the veteri-narians and animal care staff made the very difficult decision to euthanize her. As hard a choice as it was, we knew it was the right thing to do for her.” Chloe had been at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo since 1998 and was one of two lions on exhibit in the African Savanna. Her exhibit mate, Moufasa, is also 14 and is Chloe’s half-brother. Both of them were

born at Zoo World in Panama City, Florida. Though lions were once common throughout most of Africa, they are now primarily found in pro-tected grasslands south of the Sahara Desert and in parts of southern and eastern Africa. They are classified as

“vulnerable” in the wild by the Inter-national Union for Conservation of Nature. In the wild, lions have a life expectancy of 14 years, and can live up to 20 years in zoos.

100+ year old Aldabra tortoise dies at the Zoo The Zoo was saddened in April by the death of one of its oldest residents,

a male Aldabra tortoise thought to be more than 100 years old. An animal

keeper found him unresponsive in the quarters he shared with the Zoo’s two other

Aldabra tortoises inside the Sarah Allison Steffee Center for Zoological Medicine. Tim was one of three Aldabra tortoises brought to the Zoo after a 1955 safari to eastern Africa sponsored by well-known Cleveland philanthropists Gordon and Ver-non Stouffer and Frederick Crawford. He was a fully grown adult when he arrived with the other tortoises and a variety of other African animals in August 1955. Tim weighed approximately 400 pounds and his shell was 43 inches long and 26 inches across. Aldabra tortoises are native to the Seychelles and other islands off the east coast of Africa. They are vegetarians and routinely live to be over 100 years old. One of the largest species

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of tortoise in the world, they are clas-

sified as “vulnerable” in the wild by the Inter-national Union for Conservation of Nature.

Onagers Persion onagers, a critically endangered subspecies of Asiatic wild ass, are thought to be the world’s fastest wild equid (horses and related animals, including donkeys and zebras) and are capable of reaching high speeds over long distances. This spring the Zoo welcomed two onagers from The Wilds in Cumberland, Ohio.

Keeping up with these speedy equids is noth-ing new to the Zoo’s Dr. Mandy Vick. A spe-cialist in endocrinology and reproductive physiology, Dr. Vick has worked with the crit-ically endangered onager, as well as three spe-cies of rhinoceros (Indian, Sumatran and black) to improve understanding of basic health, reproductive biology and assisted reproductive techniques. Endocrinology, the study of hormones, can be used in all aspects of caring for animals.

About 600 onagers remain in the wild and those populations are threatened by poaching and loss of habitat. There are only about 25 Persian onagers in zoological institutions in North America, and only about 100 in zoos worldwide. Because there are so few animals

in zoos, the population is not self-sustaining and there is a great risk of breeding related animals together, which can decrease the overall health of the population. Animal care managers and scientists including Dr. Vick are working to develop ways to intro-duce new genetics into the captive population.

In the wild, male onagers guard a prime ter-ritory and groups of females migrate between guarded territories, depending on their hab-itat and mate preferences. Some females remain in one guarded territory while others choose to move amongst several territories. Immature males sometimes form all-male groups before reaching breeding age.

Ancient civilizations attempted to domesti-cate the onager, but none were successful due to the animal’s unruly nature. There was even an ancient Roman catapult called “the onager,” because the rear of the catapult kicked upwards with the force of the recoil, much like the onager kicks when angered. Come visit the onager in Northern Trek.

Quarters for Conservation The Zoo and Zoo Society support many important conservation projects around the world, from North America and Latin

America to Africa and Asia. This year, guests can take a direct role in those efforts by helping the Zoo decide where its conservation funds should go with Quarters for Conservation. For each paid admission, visitors receive a token repre-senting a Quarter for Conservation. Guests then use their token to “vote” for one of three ongoing Zoo and Zoo Society field projects:

• Blackrhinoconservation:savinganendan-gered species in the Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana, Africa.

• Gorillaconservation:supportingpeople–protecting wildlife in the Nouabale-Ndoki National Park, Republic of Congo, Africa.

• Conservingspeciesandhabitatsinourownback yard in Cleveland Metroparks around Northeast Ohio.

—Mary McMillan, Director of Finance and Operations, Cleveland Zoological Society

—Joe Yachanin, Marketing & PR Specialist, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

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One of the best ways to under-

stand the scope of our conser-

vation and education mission is to

experience it firsthand. Known for

fascinating, conservation-focused

encounters with exotic and endan-

gered species, the ZooKeepers’ Circle

program stands at the core of our

conservation education mission.

ZooKeepers’ Circle donors get the

inside story on the Zoo’s important

conservation work, animal care pro-

grams, science education goals and

hopes for a brighter future for wild-

life and our region’s citizens.

ZooKeeper’s Circle donors meet and

engage with Zoo staff at a variety of

private events, from a family-friendly

summer preview to an exclusive din-

ner for our Benefactors’ Club members

and, new in 2012, a series of early-

morning Curator Walks served up with

coffee and breakfast. All in all, the

ZooKeepers’ Circle hosts more than 30

events year-round featuring a range of

experiences from organic food and

gorilla heart health, The David Stef-

fee Address in Veterinary Medicine,

Flora & Fauna of The RainForest

and, of course, getting up-close with

the Zoo’s magnificent residents and

the people who care for them.

And the positive impact continues

long after the tours are over. Dona-

tions to the Zoo Society help

underwrite the Zoo’s important

work here at home and conserva-

tion initiatives around the world,

including projects in Botswana,

Kenya, Namibia and Tanzania.

No matter how you enjoy the Zoo,

many of the Zoo and Zoo Society’s

programs would not be possible

without the support of our generous

community. Thank you for helping

us make Cleveland Metroparks

Zoo one of the nation’s best.

Fiona Green

Director of Development

1 Animal Care and Exhibition

2 Wildlife Conservation

3 Sustainability

4 Conservation Education

5 Guest Experience

6 Community Leadership

Management7

The Zoo and Zoo Society

recently adopted a joint

Strategic Plan that focuses on

seven key components to

connect people with wildlife —

THE INSIDE SCOOP

All of these focus areas depend upon philan-

thropic support to realize their full potential.

By engaging our members and donors as

stakeholders, the Zoo and Zoo Society can

create a culture of philanthropy that will help

us create a better future for our Zoo.

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Yourlegacy?

“T hat which is good is never finished.” So say t h e S u k -

uma people of Tan-zania. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo — with the help of its advocate the Cleve-land Zoological Society — has transformed itself from a local entertainment venue into a nationally recognized con-servation education organization with a regional and national draw of 1.3 million visitors and a thriving international conser-vation and science program. The Zoo is accredited by the Asso-ciation of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), and widely recognized as an industry leader. Together, the Zoo and Zoo Society are ded-icated to a shared mission: We create compelling experiences that connect people with wildlife and inspire personal respon-sibility for conserving the natural world.

As a conservation park, the Zoo stewards an animal collection of several thousand individuals representing more than 600 species and maintains active international conservation pro-grams in Asia, Africa, Latin America and the United States. Con-servation medicine and research initiatives are likewise of vital importance. The Sarah Allison Steffee Center for Zoological Medicine is regarded as one of the finest zoo facilities of its kind.

As a leading center for informal science, the Zoo serves stu-dents, teachers and parents by providing outstanding curriculum and discovery opportunities in biology, envi-ronmental science and sustainability. The Zoo and Zoo

Society are dedicated to the concept that all children,

regardless of cir-cumstance, benefit from the best con-servation education programs,field trips and natural world

experiences the Zoo has to of fer. Scholarship

funds, grants and a ZooBus help ensure access to these life-changing opportunities.

Animal care, wildlife conservation, education and exhibit improvements are priority areas for the Zoo and Zoo Soci-ety. We invite you to start a conversation today about how you can make a long-term commitment by joining ZooFu-tures, the Zoo Society’s planned giving society. Gifts received from current ZooFutures participants encompass a wide range of planned giving opportunities, from simple bequests to charitable gift annuities. To learn about your options for creating a legacy to benefit the Cleveland Zoo-logical Society or for guidance addressing estate planning, please contact Liz Fowler, Executive Director, at (216) 635.3342 or Fowler@ClevelandZooSociety.org.

What is

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Feathers are aflutter at the Zoo's newest gem, African Elephant Crossing. The $25-million exhibit is home not only to six magnificent elephants, one very large rock python, a mob of meerkats, and a colony of mole rats, but also to doz-ens of the Zoo's most beautifully colored residents.

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Many different species of birds call Afri-can elephant Crossing home. And our flock doesn’t stop there—over in the African Savanna guests can check out

the largest flightless bird native to Africa, the ostrich. And, as if all that isn’t enough, visitors are in the pink when they view the Zoo’s flocks of flamingos in the Welcome Plaza.

As you get to know the different bird species at the Zoo, you’ll start to notice just how different birds can be. From where they live, to the way they build their nests, to the dif-ferent kinds of food they eat, about the only thing all these bird have in common is that they all fly. (Except the ostrich, of course—but more about them later.)

Let us introduce you to some of our favorite African feathered friends…

Our first entry in the “what’s special about this species” pageant is the Kenya crested guinea fowl. Found in open forest, woodland and forest-savanna areas in sub-Saha-ran Africa, these ground-dwelling, chicken-like birds

have blackish plumage with dense white spots, and a dis-tinctive black crest on the top of the head (that make them look a little like Elvis Presley in his later years). monogamous (which means they mate for life), the Zoo’s pair of guinea fowl may be found roaming the grounds of the African elephant Crossing Aviary.

representing Africa’s many birds that live and feed near water, the black crake can be found in most of sub-Saha-ran Africa except in very arid areas. The adult black crake has a short tail and long toes, and as its name implies, has mainly black plumage, with a brown olive tone on the wings and upperparts. Interestingly, black crake chicks are all black, as is the case with all birds in the rail family, and develop their adult coloring over time.

Small and social, black-cheeked lovebirds are native to a relatively small range in southwest Zambia, where they are listed as “vulnerable” due to habitat loss, and a decline in habitable watering holes. The black-cheeked lovebird has found its niche in deciduous woodland areas, where permanent supplies of surface water exist, as it needs

daily access to water. During Zambia’s dry season, these birds may congregate

in large flocks of up to 800 or more.

Favoring a mixed habitat, Lady ross’s turaco is a mainly bluish-purple bird that can be found in woodland, open forest and riparian habitats (such as river banks and streams). Lady ross’s turaco feed mostly on fruit, as well as spiders, crabs, and brine shrimp.

Violet-backed starlings are some of the most strikingly sexually dimorphic species in the bird world, which means the males and female birds look nothing alike. Also known as the plum-colored starling or amethyst starling, this bird is a rel-atively small species of starling found in the woodlands of sub-Saharan Africa. In the wild, the iridescent violet-backed starling forages in small family groups, following the fruiting cycle of fig trees, and can also catch insects on the fly. Spend-ing most of its time in the trees, this starling rarely descends to the ground, so look for them in the trees of the Aviary in Afri-can elephant Crossing.

One of the Zoo’s species of weaver is the Taveta golden weaver, found in the woodland and swampy areas of Kenya and Tan-zania. male Taveta golden weavers are a vibrant golden yellow color; the female an olive color with paler streaks. Taveta golden weavers are small birds, around the size of the finch, and are closely related to sparrows. male weavers, with their strong claws and bills, build extravagant oval nests over water attached to stems of reeds or grasses. Female golden weavers choose a mate based on how impressed she is by a male’s nest-building skills. The Zoo’s Taveta golden weavers, and their fancy nests, can be found in the Avi-ary at African elephant Crossing.

Even before the opening of African elephant Cross-ing, the Zoo was home to two of Africa’s most iconic bird species, lesser flamingos and ostrich. The lesser flamingo is the smallest and most numerous flamingo, probably numbering up to two million birds in the wild. Lesser flamingos feed primarily on shrimp and spirul-ina, an algae which grows only in very alkaline lakes. Although blue-green in color, the algae contain photo-synthetic pigments that give the birds their pink color. A flamingo’s deep bill is specialized for filtering tiny food items.

Saving the largest for last, the ostrich is a flightless bird native to Africa and the

largest living species of bird. Ostrich are distinctive in

appearance, with a long neck and powerful legs that give

them the ability to run at maximum speeds of about 43 mph, the top land speed of any bird. Ostrich live in nomadic groups of between five and 50 birds. When threatened, the ostrich will either hide itself by lying flat against the

ground, or will run away, but does not bury its heads

in the sand.

So there you have it, a primer fea-turing many of the beautiful birds of

Africa. The next time you come to the Zoo, take a close look and see if you can fig-

ure out what makes each species special.

—Tara Turner, Director of External relations

Birds shown, left to right. Page Z8: lesser flamingo, black-cheeked love bird, Lady ross’s turaco, black crake, Kenya crested guinea fowl, male violet-backed starling, female violet-backed starling, ostrich. Page Z9: Taveta golden weaver.

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Angie Reynolds

Education Specialist,

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Your Zoo is excited to announce several new program opportunities designed for outstanding family fun. Family Discoveries, African Artist Workshops, and Preschool Safaris are all making their debuts at the Zoo this summer. Delight in a day of discovery with your son and a snake, your mother and a meerkat, your husband and a harbor seal or your choice of many other adventures.

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Family Discoveries are 90-minute programs that include

something for each member of your fam-ily, from grandparents to grandchildren and

everyone in between. The program’s focus changes throughout the year, providing the opportunity to enjoy differ-

ent areas of the Zoo. Learn all about creating your own compost pile, how to care for the world’s largest land mammal, what’s for dinner at the Zoo and many more exciting topics. Small animal encounters are a special part of every Family Discoveries program!

Families and adults looking for that cultural connection will find it in our new African Artist Workshops. Two workshops will be offered in August, one for families, the other specifically for adults. Learn

traditional African art techniques from established artist George Amagnoh

and enjoy listening to stories of everyday life from his homeland in Ghana. Families will spend two hours prac-

ticing different techniques and will take home their artwork at the end of the workshop. The adult workshop will take place over the course of two days and will dive deeper into traditional techniques, and focus on cultural meaning and connection.

Sometimes it’s our smallest guests that have the biggest questions. Feed your toddler’s curiosity with our 90-minute Preschool Safaris. Each Wednesday in October and November (excluding November 21) a new Preschool Safari begins. Children under the age of five and their favorite adult will venture out with their very own Safari Leader and learn all about animal movement, body coverings, similarities and differences and so much more. Each program includes hands-on activities and a small animal encounter.

Spending time with family and creating lasting memories is important. Log onto clemetzoo.com to find out more about how you can add a Zoo experience to your family’s list of stories to tell for a lifetime! Reg-istration for all programs is now available at clemetzoo.com or call (216) 635-3391. Discounted rates for all Zoo members!

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WITH A BIG

CONSERVAT I O NConservation can mean different things to different people. To our children, it may mean using less water or singing a song that reminds them to reduce, reuse, and recycle. To a field biologist, it may mean protecting the last remain-ing individuals of an endangered spe-cies or working with communities to identify ways to protect biodiversity. To a zoo or aquarium, it may involve holding assurance populations of rare amphibian species or inspiring guests to take personal responsibility for pro-tecting earth’s treasures.

In all its forms, conservation is about using and protecting natural resources in a way that will ensure they are pres-ent for many generations to come. At Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, we embrace conservation by connecting people and wildlife. Our approach to conserva-tion encompasses five primary areas:

• Field conservation

• Conservation research

• Conservation education

• Population sustainability

• Resource sustainability

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Field Conservation People and wildlife sharing natural resources

The Zoo’s international conservation programs in Africa, Asia and Latin America, focus on wildlife protection, pro-moting the sustainable use of natural resources, and build-ing conservation capacity.

In Africa, the Zoo supports research projects on elephant ecology and habitat use; and works with communities to help address elephant-human conflicts. The Zoo and Zoo Society also support gorilla research and conservation projects that protect critical habitat.

In South Amer-ica, the Zoo and Zoo Society sup-port projects for Andean bears that work to address habitat loss, conflict with humans and insufficient sci-entific knowl-edge on existing populations.

In Asia, tons of turtles are poached for sale in food markets and for traditional medicine. This unsustainable trade has decimated turtle populations. The aim of the Asian Turtle Program (ATP) is to establish a safe and sustainable future for Asian turtles, and to ensure that no further turtle spe-cies become extinct in the region.

Conservation Research People Using Science to Manage Wildlife

The Zoo continues to seek new and effective ways to encourage species-typical behavior, promote health and provide for the welfare of zoo animals while conducting research that contributes to the enhancement of wildlife health and longevity of zoo populations.

The Gorilla Health Project aims to explore and ultimately prevent chronic heart disease and other medical issues that are prevalent among gorillas in North American zoos. Dr. Pam Dennis, with Dr. Hayley Murphy of Zoo Atlanta and Dr. Tom Meehan of Brookfield Zoo, make up the team of vet advisors for the gorilla Species Survival Plan (SSP).

Working closely with staff from Cleveland Metroparks Department of Natural Resources, Dr. Dennis, her graduate students and volunteers also help with conservation research all around the Metroparks, collecting everything from blood samples to fecal samples.

Conservation Education Inspiring People to Protect Wildlife

In 2011, the Conservation Education show staff performed 645 shows for 76,157 participants, including Wylde about Africa at the Zoo’s Savanna Theater, Boo at the Zoo, Noon Year’s Eve and school traveling shows. The African Elephant Crossing Education Program teaches about elephant care and management, conservation and sustainability. Each

program connects our guests with animals, highlights con-servation issues, and communicates the need for action.

Population Sustainability People working together to manage wildlife in zoos

The Zoo’s keepers and curators are leaders in many Associ-ation of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) professional groups. Curator of Animals, Dr. Chris Kuhar, is the vice-chair of the Prosimian Taxonomy Advisory Group (TAG); Dr. Kuhar is also the chair of the pygmy loris SSP. Associate Curator of Animals Tad Schoffner has been the studbook keeper for mongoose lemurs for 11 years, and created the first Prosim-ian Husbandry Workshop. Dr. Kristen Lukas, Curator of Conservation and Science, chairs the gorilla SSP.

Resource Sustainability People and wildlife need a healthy planet

The Zoo’s sustainability efforts include waste manage-ment, water and energy conservation and a number of other green initiatives. As the Zoo’s Sustainability, Com-post and Recycling Coordinator, Nancy Hughes manages all resource conservation, including the Zoo’s successful ZooPoo composting program. ZooPoo is used through-out the Zoo and is also available for public purchase.

The Zoo and Zoo Society are poised to connect people with wildlife in a number of ways. Conservation (with a big “C”) serves as an umbrella for a variety of field con-servation, science, education, and sustainability initia-tives. Through this framework, every visitor, supporter, volunteer, and employee can trace a personal connec-tion to the Zoo and Zoo Society’s joint overarching mis-sion: We create compelling experiences that connect people with wildlife and inspire personal responsibility for conserving the natural world.

—Kristen Lukas, Curator of Conservation & Science, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

—Kym Gopp, Associate Conservation Curator, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

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Renewing your membership soon? Consider an additional donation to the We Care for Animals Fund, and support the installation of elevated feeders in African Elephant Crossing. Helping the herd is as easy as writing in an additional dona-tion on your renewal form, adding a few dollars to your online renewal or calling the Membership Office at (216) 661.6500 x4421. Your generosity allows us to provide the very best quality of life for the amazing animals in our care!

Planning a vacation this spring or summer? Consider a visit to one of the many great zoos and aquariums that share reciprocity with your Zoo. In 2012, Zoo Society members will enjoy half-priced admission to more than 130 zoos and aquariums across the country! A current listing of all participating institutions may be found at ClevelandZooSociety.org. Just be sure to call your des-tination before your visit to confirm details and restric-tions. From Pittsburgh to El Paso, your Zoo Society membership is your passport to new and exciting zoo adventures!

What’s black and white and very popular? The Zoo’s zebra, of course! One of the most familiar and easily identifi-able animals at the Zoo, zebra (besides their stripes) have a mane of stiff upright hairs and a long black tail with whip-like hair at the tip, used as a fly swatter. In the wild, zebra live in family herds composed of up to six mares, their young and a single stallion, for a maximum of about 15 animals. The herds are nomadic and limited in range by their dependence on food and water. When attacked they defend themselves with their hooves and their teeth. A zebra can kick with enough force to kill a lion. Zebras can travel up to 40 mph for short distances. Come visit the zebra herd in the African Savanna.

P.S. - General consensus is that zebra are black animals with white stripes.

DID YOu KNOW?

Membership Matters Staying closer to home?

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is the place to enjoy the sunshine with your whole family. Plan your visit by making sure you have your membership cards and a photo ID for quick and easy entry. Lost your cards? No problem! Visit ClevelandZooSociety.org and print out temporary cards that are good for three weeks. Avoid lines at the Membership Booth and get you and your fam-ily closer to the fun!

—Lee Weber, Membership Manager

Membership Matters

Generous support for the Zoo Society’s Membership program is provided by:

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If this is a gift, please provide both addresses so that we can fulfill your order.

Name to Appear on Certificate and Website

recipient’s Name (mr./mrs./ms.)

Address

City State Zip

Phone (Day) E-mail

Gift is from relation to recipient

Gift message

Please indicate:  • mail packet to me  • mail packet to recipientSend renewal notice to:  • me  • recipient

If you wish to purchase more than one adoption, please include the necessary information on an extra sheet of paper.

mail to: ADOPT AN ANIMAL, Cleveland Zoological Society, 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, Ohio 44109CALL (216) 661.6500 x4440 or VISIT ClevelandZooSociety.org

Your Name (mr./mrs./ms.)

Address

City State Zip

Phone (Day) E-mail

Animal adopted ($75 for special offer or other)

Amount • $75  • $100  • $250  • Other    

• $7 additional for shipping and handling

upgrade your single adoption to $100 and you’ll also receive a FrEE T-shirt or tote bag and recognition on Zoo groundsSelect one: T-shirt (• Adult XL, • Adult m, • Youth m, • Youth L) or • Tote bag

Total $

• Check enclosed (payable to Cleveland Zoological Society)

Charge to my: • American Express  • Discover  • masterCard  • VISA

Card Number Expiration Date

Signature

This is big! No really - capybara are the largest rodents in the world! These South American natives have massive bodies, short legs, no tail and webbed feet. They love water and can even sleep underwater, with only their nose sticking out. You’ll have a new biggest fan when you adopt someone a capybara! Your gift will ensure the best possible care for not only our capybara, but also all of the 3,000 ani-mals that call our Zoo “home.”

Adopt a capybara for just $75 and your gift pack-age will include:

• An official “ZooParent” collectible key chain • A collectible plush toy • Personalized adoption certificate • A color photo and fun fact sheet about capybara • A full year of award-winning membership

publications• An invitation to ZooFriends’ Night 2013, a VIP

family summer event (mailed separately) • Name recognition on ClevelandZooSociety.org

Upgrade your single adoption to $100, and the ZooParent will receive all of the above AND a terrific T-shirt or tote bag and recognition on Zoo grounds.Go big and join at the $250 adoption level and enjoy all the benefits above, as well as an invitation for the ZooParent and a guest (16 years or older) to go on an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Zoo.Animal adoptions are a great gift for any holiday, anniversary, birthday, or

for that special someone that has everything...but a capybara. Your adop-tion kit includes something for all seasons – the custom gift package NOW, plus a year-round subscription to Z magazine, plus a chance for the ZooParent to visit their animal on ZooFriend’s Night in July 2013.

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QUALITY ANIMAL CARE IS THE HEART OF WHAT CLEVELAND METROPARKS ZOO DOES EACH DAY. VETERINARY CARE, ENRICHMENT AND WELL-BEING PROGRAMS HELP ENSURE THAT THE REMARKABLE ANIMALS ENTRUSTED TO US ENJOY THE BEST QUALITY OF LIFE POSSIBLE. SMART AND SOCIAL WITH A NATURAL DESIRE TO ROAM AND FORAGE FOR FOOD, ELEPHANTS REQUIRE A PARTICULARLY SOPHISTICATED AND CHANGEABLE ENVIRONMENT TO BE WELL IN MIND AND BODY.

Opened in May 2011, African elephant Crossing is a state-of-the-art ele-phant care facility that helps meet the challenges of high-quality elephant care. A new elephant management program — designed with elephant expert Alan Roocroft — was rolled out concurrently and provides a complex and ever-changing husbandry and training program that promotes fit-ness, herd bonding, good social inter-action and cognitive health.

The challenge for the Zoo’s elephant management program is to constantly reanimate African elephant Crossing with the stimulating “workouts” ele-phants need. Since opening African elephant Crossing, the staff has con-sidered what enhancement would optimize the exhibit’s potential and the herd’s well-being. Their conclu-sion was elevated feeders.

Elevated feeders encourage natural behaviors as elephants search and problem solve for food, and exercise important muscles in their trunks, necks and torsos. These changeable devices may be raised and lowered on a randomized schedule, further invigorating the herd and prompting cooperative feeding.

Alan Roocroft and others have docu-mented the benefits of elevated feed-ers including the positive effects on social structures and herd bonding. Also, more activity and longer feeding times maintain healthy blood sugar levels and weight.

Feeders can take on all shapes and sizes, but need to withstand the enthusiasm of an 8,000- to 13,000-pound elephant. An initial feeder will be tested in the Wilber Night Range,

and subsequent feeders installed in other ranges. All can provide impor-tant challenges that expand the herd’s foraging throughout the day and even into nighttime.

Elevated feeders also provide a fas-cinating visitor experience and a wonderful education opportunity for the Zoo to discuss biology, health, diet and a host of other topics com-mon to human and wildlife needs. Imagine a 12,000-pound elephant on its hind legs stretching up 20 or more feet to reach a delicious branch or fruit. Encounters such as these awe visitors, stimulate questions and ulti-mately help build respect and inter-est in wildlife.

—Fiona Green, Director of Development

$250,000

30%

Raising OuR sights FOR ElEphants

The estimated cost for a program of feeders is $250,000 and we have raised more than $80,000 so far. Please help us promote ele-phant health and well-ness with a gift for e levated e lephant feeders.

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“In the summer,

the song sings itself.”

—William Carlos Williams

Cleveland Zoological Society3900 Wildlife WayCleveland, OH 44109

Change Service requested

Non-Profit Org.u. S. P o s t a g eP A I DCleveland, OHPermit No. 3570

Cleveland Zoological Society3900 Wildlife WayCleveland, OH 44109

Change Service requested

Non-Profit Org.u. S. P o s t a g eP A I DCleveland, OHPermit No. 3570

Join us for the city’s largest fundraiser and celebration of Cleveland’s vibrant music scene! Wind your way through the Zoo enjoying the rhythms of 18 bands playing motown, rock, salsa, swing, country and blues. An

assortment of complimentary food, Samuel Adams beer, Jacob’s Creek wine and soft drinks will also be available. All proceeds benefit the

Cleveland Zoological Society, the advancement partner of Cleveland metroparks Zoo.

21 and over only. Proper ID required for admittance to event

vIP party — 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. General Admission — 7:00 p.m. to midnight

Vip etickets: $150 • general admission etickets: $75 Block of 10 etickets: $650 • Block of 10 Vip etickets: $1,200

etickets on sale now at ClevelandZoosociety.org