Summer 2021 | Member Magazine Reid Park Zoological Society ZooFriendZ is a very special circle of people who are invested in the future of Tucson’s Reid Park Zoo by donating $500 or more annually.
Join ZooFriendZ Today! ONLY $42 MONTHLY! For more information, contact Gail Brown at [email protected] or (520) 881-4753.
Reid Park Zoological Society 1030 South Randolph Way Tucson, Arizona 85716 P: (520) 881-4753
President & CEO Nancy J. Kluge
Chief Development Officer Gail Brown
Director of Marketing & Events Deborah Carr
Director of Business Operations & CFO Tong Cheng
Director of Human Resources Helen Smart
Director of Zoo Operations Sue Tygielski, PhD
Chief Philanthropy Officer Diana Whitman
2021 Board of Directors
Society Board Chair Foundation Board Dr. Shane Burgess Chair Nate Clark Vice Chair SUNDZU IN SUNNY SAN DIEGO Cathy Hutchens Vice Chair Mica Bane Secretary Robert Charles Treasurer Steve Larsen Adolescent elephant (known fondly as “Nipho”). Treasurer Sundzu and Nipho have Patricia O'Callaghan Secretary Sundzu has matured and Bridget Stephenson quickly formed a close Past Chair outgrown his mother's herd. Lisa Lovallo Dr. George Ball Susan Beesemyer This Spring, Sundzu moved relationship as they start Kathy Alexander Chad Driedger their lives as a bachelor Susan Beesemyer Mike Halle to the San Diego Zoo Matt Bingham Sheldon King group. They can often be Chad Driedger Jason Lazarow Elephant Odyssey habitat to Neal Eckel seen sharing food from Mike Halle establish a herd of his own. E. Courtney Johnson a feeder, spending time Sheldon King Steve Larsen Sundzu’s new care team getting dirty in a mud Jason Lazarow Edmund Marquez reports that he is settling wallow, and even laying Richard White into his new home! While he side by side overnight. Emeritus Director Denice Shepherd is still gaining confidence Both elephant care teams, Donna Warfield Jim & Terri Zarling in learning to navigate at Reid Park Zoo and San the elephant care center, Diego Zoo, are excited to he is already an expert in have Sundzu assimilating 1030 S Randolph Way navigating his new habitat successfully and thriving Tucson, AZ 85716 with his half-brother and with his new family. ZOO HOURS: new companion Inhlonipho June-September 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. October-May 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Here's a look at the Zoo through your eyes! Tag us on social media to enter your own photos for the next issue of Zoo & You!
Photo by Ann Marie Donoghue on Facebook
Photo by Debb Hart Oebker on Facebook Photo by A@cindyinthedesert on Instagram
Zoo & You 3 IN SITU PARTNERS
A herd of elephants in Tarangire National Park, Tanzania.
COMMITTED TO CONSERVATION
Despite the hardships of Tanzania Science and many other species killed COVID-19 quarantines, Conservation Program on roadways each year. restrictions, and closures, Formerly known as the Educational materials they Reid Park Zoo and its Tarangire Elephant Project, developed this year received conservation partners this program works approval to be included in remain committed to to preserve elephants the state-wide education protecting wild animals by creating safe travel curriculum for all school and wild places. We have corridors. just this past year, children. been amazed at what our an additional 365,000 acres conservation partners have of elephant habitat have SAFE Andean Highland – As the leader accomplished this year and been protected. In total, Flamingo of this Saving Animals admire their dedication, almost 1.5 million acres from Extinction program, even during these tough are now protected in the Reid Park Zoo worked with times. We’d like to highlight Tarangire ecosystem. some of their achievements partners around the world and introduce you to Giant Anteaters to develop educational some new conservation and Highways materials to opportunities. Funding – This project celebrate to support these projects worked with International comes from a portion of mayors Flamingo Day all Zoo general revenue, in several and flamingo private donations marked different conservation. for conservation, and states Continued funds raised during special within Brazil research conservation events. to create on the Puna educational (James’s), Thank you to everyone campaigns Andean, and who has helped fund highlighting the Chilean flamingos will conservation projects by need to watch out for be used to guide future visiting Reid Park Zoo. wildlife and to slow down to conservation action and protect anteaters and the educational programs. Zoo & You 4 ever done on giraffe. In addition to continuing to support the programs listed above, this year Reid Park Zoo will also support conservation and research projects focusing on tigers, Andean bears, lions, and jaguars. Additionally, we will be supporting local wildlife conservation and rehabilitation by supporting A Baird's tapir the Humane Society of Southern Arizona, Tucson Wildlife Center, and Baird’s Tapir Survival SAFE Giraffe– Funds supporting internships Alliance – This year, the from the Zoo supported with the Tucson Bee Alliance developed virtual Operation Twiga V (twiga Collaboration. educational materials is Swahili for giraffe). to share with schools This conservation effort We are excited at the many throughout the Baird’s relocated 15 giraffe to Pian opportunities we have to tapir range, from Mexico Upe, the largest wildlife continue to expand our to Colombia. They have reserve in Uganda to re- support for the conservation continued to protect tapirs establish giraffe into this of wild animals and wild and their habitat through wildlife preserve. This places both globally and local community patrol project also runs the locally. groups and by establishing Twiga Tracker Initiative, Explore more about what responsible tapir-based which monitors more than your Zoo is doing for tourism opportunities for 200 giraffe in 10 African conservation and how you when it is safe for all to countries. This is the largest can get involved by visiting travel again. GPS satellite tracking study our website.
Zoo & You 5 BIGGER SPACES. SMILING FACES.
IMPROVEMENTS UNDERWAY IN THE SOUTH AMERICA LOOP
In the mid-90’s, the South needs time away from Tupi the conservation work the America Loop at Reid Park to care for the baby. To Zoo supports in countries Zoo was the newest section make that happen there are where tapir are naturally of the Zoo. Currently home two neighboring habitats found. to 59 animals, it has always that they can use. However, been a favorite passageway this spring the habitat has The rheas, Galapagos in the Zoo known for received a big improvement: tortoises, capybaras, crested its cooling effect in the the rock walls were modified screamers, and anteaters summer. Surrounded by to allow the tapirs to use all had new rockwork walls bamboo and tall trees (like the full habitat space when added to their habitats. In the incredible silk floss tree), separation is not necessary. the case of the anteaters, a it gives the feeling of being Additionally when we can special enrichment device more secluded than other return to having keeper was added to the wall itself areas in the Zoo. chats, the modifications to provide tasty snacks. will help improve guest Anteaters use their long, The South America Loop experience as the tapirs sticky tongues to slurp is home to our two Baird’s will be closer to guests for up insects. The new wall tapirs, Tessa and Tupi. In past viewing. Keeper chats here features long tubes specially years they have had multiple will allow staff to educate designed to hold treats like youngsters together. Once guests about the tapirs and insects, honey and avocado Tessa has given birth, she for the anteaters. The
Zoo & You 6 Nearly all the changing the rockwork so mammals in South there will be more usable America are fans space. In this new space of warm weather animal care staff will have and have an the ability to hide treats indoor bedroom more creatively to challenge to retreat to in the Oja. Additionally there will winter. These climate be more bedrooms added controlled spaces to the behind-the-scenes were aging and needed area. This will provide ideal some updating. Just space for possible cubs in like we change doors in the future. our homes — the mammals in the South America loop Don’t forget had their bedrooms doors to visit Bella replaced. The new doors the jaguar, whose anteaters, Nico and Zola, help with maintaining heat and cooling, as well as habitat was need to stand up on their recently hind legs to reach some keeping our animals safe and secure. renovated, of the treat tubes — which peek in on is great for strength and The final big change in the the South balance. For our guests, it Loop is an expansion of America will be an opportunity to see the Andean bear habitat Aviary with the anteaters’ tongues and and behind the scenes many new their agility. Next time you’re bedrooms. Oja, our female species, and in the South America loop, bear, is temporarily in our visit the be sure to check out the Animal Health Center while squirrel new signage at the anteater her habitat is modified. monkeys in overlook to learn about the While she is away, her the Temple research and conservation habitat is growing! We of Tiny work of the Anteaters and are filling in the moat and Monkeys! Highways program. Oja the Andean bear. The underwater viewing Pacu cave recently got a makeover with with the addition of tiny diorama habitats featuring the native homes of animals you visit in the South America Loop. Take a peek at miniature habitats and find the animal that occupies each one. The display teaches kids to patiently locate the animal and also has lots of information about habitats and conservation in the Pantanal Region of South The Andean bear habitat under construction. America.
Zoo & You 7 FUTURE OF YOUR ZOO BRINGING PATHWAY TO ASIA AND WORLD OF PLAY TO LIFE Thanks to the support of Tucson voters in the 2017 election, Reid Park Zoo has been hard at work making needed improvements. The funds that voters approved made it possible to make important repairs and upgrades throughout the Zoo, such as replacing rusted guardrails, fixing broken walkways, and installing automatic door openers to increase accessibility for guests using strollers or wheelchairs. The funding has allowed us to increase animal care staff and pays the salary and west of the Edith Ball Play. World of Play will be for our first-ever full time Adaptive Recreation Center. accessible for children of all veterinarian. Our first consideration, abilities and will be located which is shared by the City inside the Zoo replacing the This funding is also bringing of Tucson, is always what former flamingo habitat. incredible new experiences to will be in the best interest of Reid Park Zoo. In addition to the animals in our care. We As always, thank you for the Temple of Tiny Monkeys have been diligently working your support and for being and recently-completed to ensure Pathway to Asia is with us on this journey to Flamingo Lagoon, the Phase designed to give the animals bring Pathway to Asia and 1 of the Zoo’s 10 year Master the best environment to the World of Play Adventure Plan includes the addition of thrive. Zone to our Southern Arizona an exciting 3.5 acre addition community. These two new called “Pathway to Asia” and With the World of Play areas will be transformative a new playground, the World Adventure Zone, Reid for Reid Park Zoo and will of Play Adventure Zone. Park Zoo is bringing an further our mission to be appreciation of biological the best Zoo we can be — a Pathway to Asia will bring diversity to the playground! respected center for wildlife incredible species such as red Children will chill out in cool conservation and education pandas, komodo dragons, Antarctica, hear the rhythmic inspiring guests today and for and fishing cats to your Zoo. sounds of the South American many generations to come. In May, we received direction rainforest, and and marvel at from the Mayor and Council the magnitude of the North We are excited to bring these to adjust plans for Pathway to American redwoods. Parents projects to life and, once Asia in a way that preserves will have a shaded area to they are complete, to turn beloved park amenities and watch as their kids climb to our attention to making more minimizes the use of green great heights, peek at animal improvements within the space. The project will be ambassadors, and connect current footprint of the Zoo. designed in the area north with the Earth through Nature
Zoo & You 8 IN APPRECIATION
“This Zoo is Tucson’s greatest asset!” - Ellen W. Lewis
A JOYFUL SIGHT Ellen Lewis was a docent When asked what her the flamingo habitat. at Tucson Museum of Art favorite animal in the Zoo and the Mini Time Machine is, she’s quick to respond “It’s such a joyful sight Museum (Tucson’s Museum with “Jed!” (Reid Park Zoo's to walk into the Zoo of Miniatures) prior to Donor Relations Specialist/ now and be greeted joining the Reid Park Zoo Zoo Personality), but one by those beautiful pink Docent Program in 2009. of the best things for her birds.” She laughed as She graduated from the is “to hear Billy the gibbon she remembers when Dr. program in 2010. singing” as she pulls into the Sue Tygelski needed an parking lot. enormous amount of sand “As a docent, I see a for the elephants barn tremendous value for such When visiting the Zoo, it’s prior to Nandi’s birth. “I a diverse community — hard to miss the various never imagined I would citizens of all ages with places her name appears on be providing thousands many interests. This is recognition plaques because of pounds of sand for the biggest bang for their she has helped make so elephants at the Zoo. That buck but most importantly, many habitats come to was fun!” it's here because of a fruition over the years. love of animals and what Habitats for lemurs, grizzly When asked about the Zoo's these animals bring to bears, rhinos, elephants and next project Ellen says “I’m the community in terms the Animal Health Center passionate about donating of educating children and are just a few. Most recently to things I love and will adults‚ combined with fun.” Ellen provided a lead gift to never stop!”
Zoo & You 9 UPCOMING EVENTS
SUMMER SAFARI NIGHTS PRESENTED BY TMC HEALTHCARE Saturday evenings, 5:30-8:30pm Through August 14 FREE for Zoo members $10.50 adults, $8.50 seniors, $6.50 children, free for ages under 2
Swing in for wild summer fun. • Visit the animals in the cooler evening temperatures • Listen to live music from local bands • Enjoy games and activities with Tucson Parks and Recreation’s Ready, Sec, Rec! • Explore with wildlife activities and presentations • Refresh with food and drink specials including prickly pear margaritas, craft beer and wine Special thanks to Pyramid Credit Union entertainment sponsor and Cox Communication. A different theme each evening: June 26: Art in the Animal Kingdom July 3: Red, White and Zoo July 10: Weird Science July 17: Rad Reptiles July 24: Dog Days of Summer and Astronomy Night July 31: Animal Athletes August 7: Fit for the Future August 14: Happy Herd
Summer Safari Nights is presented by by
Thank you for additional support from:
Entertainment Sponsor
Renewal by Andersen, Mary Kay and Tucson International Academy
Interested in becoming a sponsor of Reid Park Zoo events? Call 881-4753 or email [email protected]
Zoo & You 10 RED, WHITE AND ZOO WATERMELON WEDNESDAYS ZOOCSON 2021 Sunday, July 4 Every Wednesday in July Friday, October 8 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. FREE with Zoo Admission 6– 9 p.m. FREE with Zoo Admission $110 per Zoo Member Adult Ticket Watch as the Zoo’s $130 per person Adult Ticket Celebrate America at Reid Park Zoo animals enjoy a $200 per person VIP Ticket with a day of fun-filled patriotic sweet treat as part Bring your appetite for adventure animal activities, including a self- of special summer and enjoy Tucson’s wildly elegant, guided scavenger hunt in search of enrichment. Every all-inclusive fundraiser featuring red, white and blue animals. As a Wednesday guests can delectable food samplings from local special thank you for your service, all watch animals enjoy restaurants, music, animal encounters veterans and activity duty military watermelon flavored and one-of-a-kind auctions. This will get free admission to the Zoo ice, investigate year’s event is inspired by the Zoo’s with current military ID and their puzzle feeders filled with slices of new pack of African wild dogs. Join dependents will get admission of $5 watermelon, and have fun while they us for an enchanting evening in the each on July 4th. smash whole watermelons. jungle and under the stars at the Zoo.
NANDI’S SEVENTH BIRTHDAY 8 – 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 21 FREE with Zoo Admission
The Zoo’s beloved Nandi is turning seven, and you’re invited to help celebrate her life and the lives of elephants everywhere. Join us in Expedition Tanzania as our pachyderm princess and elephant herd get some jumbo-sized enrichment treats, and learn how you can help save wild elephants through special zookeeper chats and elephant-themed activities. We’ll have cupcakes for the first 300 guests. While Nandi’s actual birthday is August 20th, we’re celebrating on Saturday to give more guests an opportunity to take part in the fun.
Universal Avionics Dauntless Racing Thank you to our Business Members! Bisbee Breakfast Club The Office of Dr. Adam Dalesandro Sunshine DTA Zoo & You 11 Non-Profit Org. Reid Park Zoological Society U.S. Postage 1030 South Randolph Way PAID Tucson, Arizona Tucson, Arizona 85716 Permit No. 1257