zootracks fall 2013

16
AUGUST · SEPTEMBER · OCTOBER FALL 2013 INSIDE What's Their Problem Quarters 4 Conservation The Scoop on Poop MEMBER’S MAGAZINE

Upload: sedgwick-county-zoo

Post on 22-Mar-2016

215 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

DESCRIPTION

ZooTracks is a member magazine for the Sedgwick County Zoo.

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: ZooTracks Fall 2013

AUGUST · SEPTEMBER · OCTOBER FALL 2013

INSIDE

What's Their Problem

Quarters 4 Conservation

The Scoop on Poop

MEMBER’S MAGAZINE

Page 2: ZooTracks Fall 2013

ZooTracksA Sedgwick County Zoological Societymagazine for members

PublisherSedgwick County Zoological Society, Inc.© 2013All rights reserved.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORMark C. Reed

Sedgwick County Zoological Society, Inc.

PRESIDENTScott Ochs

TRUSTEESStanley G. AndeelKevin J. ArnelJeff BloomerRon BruntonWilliam P. BuchananMartha C. BufordCindy BurgessKelly E. CallenMark C. DeVriesAllan DunneGenevieve FarhaRhonda FullertonMichael HerbertRonald HoltDale HoyerDirk JonesSarah KauffmanDon J. KnappenbergerGary KohnMarvin LongJim LudwigBuz LukensGayle MaloneSam MarnickMartin W. ParkSue PearceMary Lynn PriestScott RedlerAlbert R. SanchezBarry SchwanJay SmithDavid M. UnruhMarty WellsSheryl Wohlford

MAGAZINE COMMITTEESchanee AndersonMelissa GrahamRyan GulkerScott NewlandSteven OnkenJonathan Rold

ON THE COVER— Orangutan

FEATURE STORY

What's Their Problem?

What's Their Problem?

For several nights, my three year old has been hearing some very unusual bedtime stories about animals. The story typically starts with him asking me, “What’s their problem?” in regard to a particular animal. I try to explain, as best I can, what the “problem” is and what the Zoo is doing to help. I even try to work in some things that he can do to help! I’m not suggesting that these are great stories to tell a child right before bed, but mine seems to sleep just fine and even wakes up asking more questions or pretending to save the animals! Here are some stories that you can share with your kids to get them involved with conservation:

Orangutans

—What’s Their Problem?

Problem: Deforestation due to Agriculture:

Palm Oil Crisis

People like to eat. Sometimes our love of food can be bad for not only our health but also for the world in which we live. One way our eating habits cause harm is the case of palm oil.

Palm oil is the most widely used edible vegetable oil. It comes from the fruit of the African oil palm tree (Elaeis guineensis). Palm oil is found in many of the foods we eat: cookies, candies, crackers, etc. It’s also found in many household products as well: shampoos, cosmetics, etc.

The African oil palm tree is not originally found in the rainforests of Sumatra and Borneo in Southeast Asia, but was brought to the islands as a crop. Because the demand for this crop is so high, the rainforests of these islands have been cleared and turned into agriculture lands.

These rainforests happen to be the only home of wild orangutans. Borneo and Sumatra are the only places in the world that wild orangutans can be found. The clearing of the natural habitats are pushing this already endangered species to the brink of disappearing from the planet.

Page 3: ZooTracks Fall 2013

2

There are ways that palm oil can be produced responsibly and without destroying the vital rainforests for orangutans. There are many companies making the commitment to support sustainable palm oil production.

Things Sedgwick County Zoo is doing to help:

Taxon Advisory Group (TAG) conservation initiatives to help conserve the wild populations of ape, including orangutans.

at events that are on the Palm Oil Shopping Guide: Current Best Choices List.

How you can help:

companies who are orangutan friendly. Here is a link to the 2013 Palm Oil Shopping Guide produced by the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: http://www.cmzoo.org/docs/palmOilShoppingGuide.pdf

“Orangutan Friendly” and to join the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO). A sample letter can be found at: http://www.cmzoo.org/conservation/palmOilCrisis/

tips on how they can help!

Amphibians Around the World—

What’s Their Problem?

Problem: Chytrid Fungus

Getting a fungus is never fun, especially when there aren’t any doctors handy! Amphibians around the world are contracting a fungus and scientists aren’t sure from where it is coming.

Chytrid is a type of fungus that lives almost totally in water or moist environments. Other chytrid fungi are parasites that live on plants or invertebrates. In 1999, a new chytrid fungus was discovered. This one, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis or “Bd” for short, only infects the skin of amphibians.

If an amphibian is infected with large numbers of the Bd fungus, its skin becomes very thick. Once this occurs, the skin will not allow the animal to absorb water and other nutrients like it normally would, causing its death.

Bd is thought to be capable of infecting the world’s 6,000 amphibian species and could continue to cause huge declines in amphibian species.

What Sedgwick County Zoo is doing to help:

Conservation Building. This building is part of a stopgap measure through captive management to prevent certain species from potential exposure to Bd. This off-exhibit facility features four isolation rooms for the housing and breeding of rare and endangered amphibians.

Amphibian Ark, an organization dedicated to ensuring the global survival of amphibians, focusing on those that cannot be safeguarded in nature.

How you can help:

here at Sedgwick County Zoo.

captive-bred animals.

politicians, from local to federal, to raise their awareness and ask them to encourage and finance conservation activities for amphibians.

amphibianark.org

Page 4: ZooTracks Fall 2013

Turtles Around the World—What’s

Their Problem?

Problem: Black Market Trade

Turtles may not be on your shopping list, but in many parts of the world, especially in Asia, they are. The demand for turtles as food, medicine, or pets has resulted in a staggering decline in turtle numbers around the world. Many species of turtle are listed as endangered due primarily to unregulated collecting or poaching. Given how long a turtle can live and the low hatching rate of turtles, there have been potential crashes in the wild populations.

Even national parks are feeling the effects from poaching. Once the population of turtles outside the national park diminishes, the poachers make their way to the park’s gates, some of which do not have the security to handle the poachers.

There is hope of initiating programs that will help keep the forests intact and giving turtles more protection out in the wild.

What Sedgwick County Zoo is doing to help:

Survival Alliance (TSA) to be directed to the to the TSA India program and the TSA center in South Carolina.

How you can help:

where you found it.

road), help them to a place that is safe.

o Make sure the turtle is not a wild caught turtle.o Turtles can live a really long time, so make sure you’re

prepared to care for the turtle a really long time!o Make sure that you know how to properly care for a turtle. Diet,

lighting and habitat are all very important to the care of turtles.

generated by membership dues help to offset the operating costs of the TSA.

FEATURE

Bird Species of the Mariana Islands – What’s Their Problem?

Problem: Introduced Species—The Brown Tree Snake

Accidents can happen. A perfect example of this is the introduction of brown tree snake to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNIM) during World War II. No one meant for the Australian snake to find its way to these islands and threaten the many native birds, but it happened. The end result was nine of the 13 native species of birds were gone.

The threat of the brown tree snake is still prevalent on the islands, but luckily researchers have found that the snake has only inhabited the island of Guam.

Saipan, Rota and Tinian are our reservoirs, but due to the fact they are inhabited, and likely will keep developing the birds will be under greater pressure and the snake risk will increase thru continued commerce…so the northern islands are the new safe havens, because they are uninhabited. This leaves several other islands, like Sarigan, Pagan and Agrihan, to establish insurance populations of the remaining native species.

What Sedgwick County Zoo is doing to help:

to the Mariana Avifauna Conservation Program (The MAC Program).

Curator of Birds, to participate in the fieldwork and translocation of several bird species to the snake free islands.

here at the Zoo since 2006.

How you can help:

the MAC program through our Quarters for Conservation

Sedgwick County Zoo conservation efforts in the wild.

Page 5: ZooTracks Fall 2013

4

Rhinos—What’s Their Problem?

Problem: Poaching for Medicinal Purposes

A horn is not really a useful medicine. If it were, then your fingernails and hair could be used to make you feel better. Rhino horns and our fingernails and hair are made of the same thing, keratin. However, there are parts of the world that still think that a rhino’s horn is a good cure for all kinds of things, from toothaches to epilepsy. This belief is leading poachers to kill wild rhinos for their horns. Though it is illegal to buy and sell rhino horns in parts of the world, enforcing that is hard to accomplish and prosecution for smuggling horns is rare.

Despite the increase in poaching incidents, the wild populations of black and white rhinos are fairly stable. This could all change quickly if the poaching cannot be stopped, and currently concern is rising again.

What Sedgwick County Zoo is doing to help:

from the Sedgwick County Zoo as our commitment to the conservation efforts for the black rhino.

How you can help:

learn all you can about rhino conservation. This site has lots of great information and resources.

By telling these stories today, perhaps one day there won’t be a need to ask “What’s their problem?” Together we can share stories like these and encourage everyone to take action.

Thanks to Zoo members and guests, the Sedgwick County Zoo is able to contribute to many conservation organizations around the world. Each time someone renews their

membership or pays admission they are helping contribute to the Quarters for Conservation (Q4C) program that allows the Zoo to support these worthwhile causes.

For the complete Q4C story,

please turn to page 7 & 8.

Page 6: ZooTracks Fall 2013

Education Program ScheduleAll classes are held in the Cargill Learning Center unless otherwise noted. Please visit www.scz.org for program information and brief class descriptions of individual classes. Space is limited and pre-registration is required for classes. Please call 316-266-8213 to register. Classes take place rain or shine. For the safety and enjoyment of everyone, no older or younger siblings, including infants, are allowed in age specific classes unless otherwise noted.

Class Date Topic Start–End Time Class Date Topic Start–End Time

Wee WigglersAge: 12–23 mo.Members: 4Nonmembers: 6Additional person: 2

+Siblings up to five years of age may also attend these classes on Wednesdays at 11:00 only. An

will be charged for any mobile child.

Tues 9/3

Tues 9/3

Wed 9/4

Wed 9/4

Wed 10/2

Wed 10/2

Thurs 10/3

Thurs 10/3

Wed 11/6

Wed 11/6

Hedgehog

Hedgehog+

Hedgehog

Hedgehog

Lizard

Lizard

Lizard

Lizard+

Bug

Bug+

Bug

Bug

Bird

Bird

Bird

Bird+

10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

OwletAge: 2–3Members: 6Nonmembers: Additional person: 3

+Siblings up to five years of age may also attend these classes on Wednesdays at 11:00 only. An

will be charged for any mobile child. Wed 10/16

Wed 10/16

Tues 11/19

Tues 11/19

Tues 11/19

Wed 11/20

Wed 11/20

Hedgehog

Hedgehog+

Hedgehog

Hedgehog

Hedgehog

Lizard

Lizard

Lizard

Lizard

Lizard+

Bug

Bug+

Bug

Bug

Bug

Bird

Bird

Bird

Bird

Bird+

10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

2:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

2:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

2:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

2:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

Tot Tuesdayssiblings

welcome

NO COST

No advanced registration required.

Tues 9/24

Tues 10/22

Tues 11/26

Parrots

Elegant Eagles

Things that Go Bump in the Night

Animal Sounds

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

Pajama Party

members, children ages 0–1st grade

Members: Nonmembers: 19Additional person:

Fri 9/13

Sat 9/21

Fri 10/11

Sat 11/2

Heritage Farms

Heritage Farms

Crazy Cats

Crazy Cats

Eeew at the Zoo

Eeew at the Zoo

Bath Time

Bath Time

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

DISCOVERY

"ZOO"per Stars

Members: 6Nonmembers:

Sun 9/22

Sun 11/24

Cow

Tiger

Grizzly Bear

Elk

1:30 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

ZOOper Kids

Members: Nonmembers: 10

Sat 9/14

Sat 10/19

Sat 11/16

Vanishing Domestics

Asian Animal Trek

Spooktacular

Bearly Getting By

2:00 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

4:00 p.m.

4:00 p.m.

4:00 p.m.

4:00 p.m.

Sunset SafariAge: 12 mo.–6 yearsMembers: 6Nonmembers: Additional person: 3

Tues 9/10

Tues 11/12

Hedgehog

Lizard

Bug

Bird

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Ewe & Meage 4 – kindergartenMembers: Non-members: 10Additional person: 4

Wed 9/11

Wed 9/11

Thur 9/12

Gentle Giant Giraffe+

Gentle Giant Giraffe

Gentle Giant Giraffe

10:00 a.m.

1:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

3:00 p.m.

11:30 a.m.

Ewe & Me

+ Younger siblings may also attend class on Wednesdays at 10:00 only. An additional fee of 4 will be charged for any mobile child.

Thur 9/12

Wed 10/9

Wed 11/13

Thur 11/14

Gentle Giant Giraffe

Going Batty

Going Batty+

Beautiful Birds+

Beautiful Birds

1:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

3:00 p.m.

11:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

Page 7: ZooTracks Fall 2013

Class Date Topic Start–End Time Class Date Topic Start–End Time

Registration Information:

refund is needed, contact the education department by 4 p.m. the day prior to the scheduled class. After contact, we will be happy to refund a maximum of

reserve the right to refuse service to anyone with a fever or who is noticeably sick.

6

So You Think You Want to Be a Zookeeper?TeensMembers: 10Nonmembers: 12

* close-toed shoes required

Birds

Snakes

3:30 p.m.3:30 p.m.

––

Sat 9/14

Sat 11/9

Commissary

Horticulture10:00 a.m.10:00 a.m.

11:30 a.m.11:30 a.m.

––

Backstage PassIncludes up to five family members,

Members: Nonmembers: 19Additional people/Individual fee:

Wheeling Wild ClubFamily—must be on

bicycle or attached wagon.

1 ride per month

1 ride per month

thruWed 10/16

3rd Wed each

month

6:30 p.m.–Sponsored by Bicycle X-change

Senior Wednesdays

Pre-registration not required

Sponsored by Larksfield Place

Wed 9/11

Wed 10/9

Wed 11/13

Wonders Down Under

Domestic vs Exotic

Bats in the Belfry

What's New at the Zoo

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

Coffee ConnectionsGeared towards adults but all ages welcomeNO COST

No advance registration required.

Mon 9/2

Mon 11/4

Katie Kimble Australia/South America Mammals

No program due to the holiday

Ryan GulkerDeputy Director

Daniel WrightOperations Coordinator

Sponsored by Starbucks

9:00 a.m.

9:00 a.m.

9:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

Education Registration Form Please enclose form with payment and mail after you have preregistered.Student Name Class Title Date Time Fee

Membership No:

Parent's Name:

Address:

Total Fees:

Phone:

City: Zip:

Homeschool Expeditions

Members: Nonmembers:

Includes up to five family members

Wed 10/16

Wed 11/6

How Does the Zoo Work?

You're Wearing That!?!?

Migration Madness

Turkey Talk

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

NEW!

Farm FamiliesFamilies of all agesMembers: participant

Nonmembers: 20 per participant

**Go to scz.org for more information**

Session Three Varies

Rides will not be rescheduled for inclement weather

Animal EncounterAll ages

NO COST

No advanced registration required.

Classes may be canceled without notice

Mon 9/2

Tues 9/10

Thur 9/26

Thur 10/16

Wed 10/24

Mon 11/4

Tues 11/12

Wed 11/20

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

––––

––––

––

Jungle Animal

Frog

Salamander

Mystery Animal

No program

Animal Colors

Turtles

Migration Madness

Animal Defenses

Nocturnal Animals

Creepy Crawlies

Underground Creatures

Cold Weather Creatures

Mystery Animal

Birds

No program

Page 8: ZooTracks Fall 2013

Quarters 4 ConservationVisiting Sedgwick County Zoo gives guests an opportunity

to see wild animals up close and thus gain understanding,

appreciation, and respect for some magnificent creatures

that many people may never get to see in the wild. But

another way we strive to help animals is by donating to

conservation programs, which allows us to play a part in

safeguarding the world’s wildlife. Conservation initiatives

such as those listed protect wild animals both in captivity

and in their natural habitats.

Sedgwick County Zoo has been recognized with

national and international awards for its support of field

conservation programs and successful breeding of rare and

endangered species.

Page 9: ZooTracks Fall 2013

Where Do the Conservation Dollars Come From?

for various conservation programs through the Quarters

Sedgwick County Zoo conservation efforts in the wild.

in the Zoo and through our Gift Shop program that allows

guests to round up purchases to help fund conservation

programs. Just by coming to the Zoo, you are helping

support our contributions to worldwide animal conservation.

Learn more about the conservation projects the Sedgwick

County Zoo supports at our Conservation initiatives page on

our website. Visit www.scz.org!

Page 10: ZooTracks Fall 2013

FRIENDS & FAMILY

are a wild time at the Zoo

� Call 26 6 - 8252 to plan a Jungle Birthday Party in the Plaza Beastro (all ages)

� Call 26 6 - 8213 to plan a Safari Birthday Party in the Cargill Learning Center (ages 4–12)

Visit www.scz.org for more information

on all birthday party packages!

BIRTHDAYS

dadayy

y y 1212))

Wild

WINESWild

WINES:Nov 22 Fri:

6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Reserve your spot!266-82���� scz.org

For Wine Novices and Connoisseurs: an entertaining and casual atmosphere where we will explore tastes from all over the world. Labels and names are large-parts of why we buy wine. Take a sip on the wild side as we learn more about wines and the animals in their names!

Members $25 each / Nonmembers $30 each

Must be 21 or over.

MeNon

M

Reserve your spot!266-82���� scz.org

Cocktails with Creatures

Friday, September 276:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Why not try a new spirit out at the Zoo? We will be trying cocktails inspired by animals while strolling the pathways of the Zoo. Light snacks will be provided.

Members $25 each / Nonmembers $30 eachMust be 21 or over.

s y sp

MeMeMMembmmbm erers s $2$25 5 55 eaeae chchc // NNononnmmemembmbererMuMuMuM sttst b bee 212112 ooor r r ovovoooverere ..

Children’s Farms Festival:

Fabulous FallSaturday, October 19: 1:00–4:00

Celebrate Fall at the Farms by participating in some old fashion county fair activities. Learn how animals are judged at the fair and much more. You might even win a blue ribbon yourself!

Regular Zoo admission applies. Members are Free with membership card and photo ID.

You’re invited to celebrate with some real party animals! Let Sedgwick County Zoo staff help you choose a fun birthday party package for your child. We’ll provide all the party supplies. All you have to do is have fun!

Page 11: ZooTracks Fall 2013

Nocturnal AdventuresAre you looking for an exciting activity for your scout, church, or school group but do not want to mess with camping equipment? How about spending the night at the Zoo? Groups will meet education staff at 6:00 p.m. in the Cargill Learning Center and participate in an exciting evening of games, tours, and special animal visitors. Groups will sleep inside, so no tents are needed. You bring a sack dinner. An evening snack and morning juice are provided by the Zoo.

Participants sleep in the Cargill Learning Center, The Downing Gorilla Forest, the Slawson Family Tiger Trek or at the North American Prairie Overlook. There is a

fewer than 30 people, the education department reserves the right to combine groups similar in age and gender.

To schedule your Nocturnal Adventure, contact the Education Department at 266-8213 a minimum of two weeks in advance.

10

NIGHT OF THE LIVING ZOOOctober 25, 26 & 27

Bring your ghouls and goblins for a night of not-too-scary Halloween fun at the Sedgwick County Zoo! Several ghoulish activities, like pumpkin bowling and beanbag tosses, can be found throughout the Zoo. Wear your costumes if you dare and take a stroll down jack-o-lantern lane, creep up to candy stations and let your spirit come alive!

You can wander the Zoo at your leisure, visiting Dracula and the fortune tellers, playing fun Halloween games, seeing creepy displays, and visiting Candy Land on your way out!

Please note: You might see animals in their outdoor exhibits (such as elephants, giraffes, and grizzly bears) but most animals will not be in attendance at this event.

Advance tickets:

ticket outlets.Tickets purchased at gate:

under do not need a tickets.

Sponsored by:

Interested in the Pumpkin Carving Party? Email [email protected] to find out more information!

Creature CampoutJoin us for an overnight outdoor adventure “Down Under," mate!

Fridays, September 20 and October 11

All campers need to bring their own tents, sleeping bags and flashlights. The campouts are designed for families

for nonmembers.

Space is limited at each of the campouts, so call soon to register. For more information or to register, call the

Creature Campout Shirts will be

for those that camp out with us.

We would like to thank our friends at Papa John’s for helping to sponsor these great overnights!

Page 12: ZooTracks Fall 2013

well. Some still use it for these purposes today! When it is

completely dry, it only has an earthy scent so homes and fires

will not distract from a pleasant evening! Some cultures even

used it to rid themselves of freckles by rubbing dung on their

faces! There is a special coffee that is made from the seeds

excreted by the civet cat. This is called kopi luwak and is very

expensive due to the enzymes in the digestive tract of the cat.

It is considered a delicacy by some. Humboldt penguins are

diminishing in number to the harvesting of guano for fertilizer.

They then have no where to dig their nests.

Animals use feces in many

ways. For defense, some

animals will have explosive

episodes to deter prey from

eating them. The skipper

caterpillar will launch its

poo about 6 feet away so

birds aren’t attracted to them. This is equivalent to humans

shooting theirs over ¾ of a football field! For marking their

territory, animals will defecate as a sign that this is their land.

Hippos will even use their tails as little helicopters and will

fling their feces as if it had hit a fan! Rhinos will stomp in it

and walk around to increase their perimeter. Some animals

have a poor digestive system and many will re-ingest their

feces to extract more nutrients. The dry hard rabbit pellets

that are visible are actually what remain after consuming the

first round of slimy, non-formed feces. This is also common

with the young of some animals. Koalas predominately

eat eucalyptus. This is a plant that makes most ill who eat

it. Koala babies are not born with the enzymes to digest

the eucalyptus, so it consumes a little dung from its mother

to start producing its own enzymes. Incidentally, because

of their diet, koalas have poo that has a minty fresh scent!

Turkey vultures have a special use for their feces. To keep

themselves cool, they defecate on their legs. The following

evaporation helps reduce the possibility of overheating.

Even dinosaur doo

is found fossilized. It

is called a coprolite.

Scatologists can study

this and, while many find

it a most uncomfortable

topic, it is one of utmost

importance at the Zoo.

ANIMALS & NATURE

The Scoop on PoopChaille Blount, Education Specialist

Although poo is taboo, it is important at the Zoo! And let’s

just be honest, we have a lot of it! One may call it dung, scat,

pies or buttons….but here is the word on turds.

To tell the truth, scat has been an amazing resource for

humans and animals throughout history.

We can tell much by

observing what is left

behind. In the wild,

feces can be used to

inform us on the health

and habits of animals.

It can also be used for

tracking and population

sizes. Because it is

usually solid, it can be dated so we can even track timelines

for animals and the abundance of food in their natural habitat.

Hormone components can also be tested to determine

fertility, pregnancy or estrus. This becomes important when

conservation scientists are looking at threatened species or

animals whose populations are declining.

At the Zoo, we use feces in much the same way. We collect

feces from the animals that reside here twice a year for routine

examinations. We also collect samples if we notice an animal

is not behaving normally. This is one of the easiest methods of

checking the health of the individuals in our collection.

In its most primitive forms, scat was dried and used as building

material and for fuel. Many forms of dung are plant-based, so

when it is dry, it becomes very strong. Because the remaining

plant material is so compact and concentrated, it burns very

Elephant bolus

Penguin fertilizer pellets

Dinosaur Coprolite

Page 13: ZooTracks Fall 2013

12

Know Your Poo?Match the Feces with its “Owner”

1. Vermidung

2. Spraint

3. Splay

4. Fumet

5. Lesses

6. Billitting

7. Dirt

8. Guano

9. Coprolite

10. Buttons

11. Road Apples

12. Slice

13. Bolus

14. Chips

15. Frass

16. Speck

A. Rodent

B. Flea

C. Bat

D. Bison

E. Rabbit

F. Horse

G. Fly

H. Bird

I. Worm

J. Bird of Prey

K. Otter

L. Dinosaur

M. Deer

N. Beetle

O. Bear

P. Fox

Rhino bolus

Tiger FecesCall 266.8211 Click scz.org

Come by Membership office

With over 20 Zoo Pal animals to choose

from, you’re sure to find the perfect one!

The Zoo Pal program offers a unique way for people to support the Zoo's efforts to enhance animal

habitats and maintain the finest animal care possible. Your donation goes directly toward the care of

Sedgwick County Zoo animals.

ZOO PAL LEVELS

All levels include recognition in the Zoo, Zoo Pal certificate and Zookeeper report. Additional benefits

are added for Honorary Keeper level and above.

Visit scz.org for a complete list of animals and benefits or stop by the Membership office!

See Below for Answers

Page 14: ZooTracks Fall 2013

ANIMALS & NATURE

Pete’s Plant TipsPete Logsdon: Horticulture

As we plan to leave the hot summer behind and look to moving our plants indoors for the winter, lets again take a close look at our plants’ health. We want to have as few pests carried indoors with the plants as possible. The first and easiest way to do this is by giving our plants a thorough bath. Spray the tops and bottoms of leafs with a fine mist. This should knock off any pests that are still hanging on after the growing season.

Next, mix up a batch of horticultural soap in your watering bucket and saturate the soil in the container. Any soil-borne pests should meet their timely end. Using a horticultural soap is also a safe and easy way to get any survivors that hang on after the leaves have been misted. Finally, let’s look at your plant container. A clay pot will begin to accumulate salts around the base and top rim of the pot. This is a by-product of fertilizer. Use a stiff wire brush to remove as much as possible. Ceramic pots or faux terra cotta pots may be wiped clean.

As you look for places in your home to keep your plants, be aware of heating vents and drafts from open doors. Both will cause damage to most plants. Sadly, more plants lose their vigor to cold drafts or hot dry air from a floor vent than to any pest or disease during winter. To keep humidity up around your plants, consider using a saucer with a layer of pebbles. Just having a saucer under your plant container will keep you from having to clean up your floors after watering.

Light conditions will be much lower indoors. Even the brightest window in your home will not be as bright as the outdoors and plants will naturally drop some leaves to acclimate to this reduced light.

Reduce the frequency of watering. Water thoroughly (when water just begins to drip from drain holes) and know that the next watering, depending on the plant type, may not be necessary for 1-3 weeks or more. Cactus and succulents may not need watering for a month or more. Fertilization is not needed during the winter months.

If you decide all this is too much work but you don’t want to see your plant die on your patio, consider donating

it to your Sedgwick County Zoo. We accept most tropical plants, some succulents and cacti. Our plant donation weekend this year will be October 19 and 20 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. We use these plants throughout the Zoo, including the Jungle; Amphibian and Reptile building; Koch Orangutan and Chimpanzee Habitat; and the Downing Gorilla Forest exhibits. Many plants are also used in our off-exhibit housing for our bird collection. These plants give the birds a natural environment to live in during our cold winter months. Some plants will be put in containers and gardens throughout the Zoo for all of our guests to enjoy. We thank you for thinking of us and our birds, reptiles, and primates thank you too!

Plant DonationHelp Us Fill the Greenhouse!

Saturday & Sunday, October 19 and 20:

9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Drop off plant donations in the Zoo Administration parking lot.

We will accept tropical plants, and perennials in containers of 12 inches or larger. Ferns,

selloums, ficus always seem to be very popular among the donations. We will take as many of these as we can, but may not be able to take all of them. We will pick up plants until our

greenhouses are full.

Sedgwick County Zoo does not need annuals (petunias, impatiens, marigolds, pansies, coleus etc.). Cacti and succulents will be accepted on a case-by-case basis only.

If your plants are too big for you to drop off at the Zoo, please call

Pete Logsdon, Tropical Horticulturist, at

Page 15: ZooTracks Fall 2013

14

their membership card.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

6PM TO MIDNIGHT

CALL 316.266.8273 CLICK scz.org or COME BY the Zoo 5555 Zoo Boulevard 67212

scz.org

Saturday, October 19, 2013:

Hit the open road for one WILD ride for the Sedgwick County Zoo! The day will include: a great breakfast at the Zoo to get your motor running, a tour of parts of beautiful South Central Kansas in the fall, great prizes, and a ton of fun; all while supporting one of Kansas’ favorite community attractions! Passengers ride free. Registration includes one poker card, t-shirt, and breakfast for one.

8:00 a.m. Registration/check in at Sedgwick County Zoo. Before you ride, fill your tank with an all-you-can-eat pancake and sausage breakfast served by Chris Cakes. Breakfast

10:00 a.m.—LAST BIKE OUT Hit the open road for one WILD ride while you work to build the best poker hand. This ride is about 110 miles roundtrip and will take you through South Central Kansas with stops in Douglass, Leon, Andover, and Park City - beginning and ending at the Zoo.

2:00 p.m.—ALL BIKES BACK Arrive back at the Zoo for more fun, wild animals and great prizes! Finish off your poker hand at the Zoo to see if you're a winner.

Questions? E-mail: [email protected]

Sponsored by: Alefs Harley Davidson, Piping & Equipment Co, Inc, Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay,

ADVENTURE

Bash

Page 16: ZooTracks Fall 2013

PLANNING YOUR VISIT:Visit scz.org to purchase tickets or renew your membership.TAKE YOUR PICK! WE’RE OPEN 364 DAYS A YEAR!Plan a trip to the Zoo with family and friends! Speed up your rate of entry by purchasing any additional tickets online at scz.org for family or friends who don’t have a membership. You can print tickets at home and everyone can enjoy the Zoo adventure that much quicker!

Regular Admission

Children ages 2 and under Free FREE Tram TourEnjoy a FREE narrated tram tour of the Zoo! You can hop on or off at any of the five designated tram stops. Using the tram to get around the Zoo allows you to see more of the Zoo during your visit! And it’s FREE! All aboard! (Weather permitting.)

Wheelchair Rental:

additional hour Stroller Rental:

Giraffe Feeding Station:Open 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. (staff & weather permitting)

Summer Hours:

March–October.

Winter Hours:

November–February

To inspire discovery, appreciation, and respect for animals and nature

Let Your Imagination Run

WildWe'll Take Care of the Details!

Whether you are planning a group event for 20 or a spectacular party

for 2,000—we have the capabilities and resources to offer a truly

unique social experience. From the drama of The Downing Gorilla

Forest to the serenity of the Cessna Penguin Cove, we have a variety of

venues that are sure to create an atmosphere your guests will never

forget. We're here to help you customize your experience and

give your guests an event they will always remember.

For more information visit the

Group Events page at scz.org.

Dates are filling up fast for spring and summer dates!

zoo gift shop coupon

One Coupon per person/per purchase. Must have membership ID and coupon to redeem.

valid from 8/1/13 to 8/31/13

Back Packs, Totes, & Purses

AUGUST

off15%

zoo gift shop coupon

One Coupon per person/per purchase. Must have membership ID and coupon to redeem.

valid from 9/1/13 to 9/30/13

T-shirts and Sweatshirts

SEPTEMBER

off15%

zoo gift shop couponvalid from 10/1/13 to 10/31/13

Masks, pinchers, bats, insects

OCTOBER

off15%

One Coupon per person/per purchase. Must have membership ID and coupon to redeem.