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Volume XXV, Number 2 Riverbanks is published six times a year for The Observation Deck 1 members of Riverbanks Society by Riverbanks Zoological Park and Botanical Lights, Cameras…Bird Action! 2 Garden, Columbia, SC Sale - Jazz Up Your Garden 4 Plan Your Visit 6

Riverbanks Park Commission In The Know 8 J. Carroll Shealy, Chairman Meet the Bachelors 10 Ella Bouknight Lloyd Liles Romance at Rivebanks 14 James E. Smith Tracey Waring Delight in the Garden - Safari 16 Robert P. Wilkins Lawrence W. Johnson, Dancing with the Flamingos 18 Chairman Emeritus Breakfast with the Bunny 19 Riverbanks Society Board of Directors H. Perry Shuping, President Jeremy G. Wilson, Vice-President Sharon Jenkins, Secretary Jan Stamps, Treasurer Mike Brenan Donna Croom Robert G. Davidson William H. Davidson II Thomas N. Fortson Steve Graves Mary Howard Mark D. Locke, MD, FAAP Richard N. McIntyre Dorothy G. Owen C.C. Rone, Jr. Bud Tibshrany 10 James S. Welch 2 Roslyn Young Anny Zalesne Don F. Barton, Director Emeritus

Riverbanks Senior Staff Riverbanks Magazine Satch Krantz Dixie Kaye Allan Executive Director Executive Editor/Art Director Kim M. Benson Monique Jacobs Director of Human Resources Editor George R. Davis Ashley Walker Director of Finance Graphic Artist Ed Diebold Larry Cameron Director of Animal Collections Photographer Kevin Eubanks Director of Guest Services Chris Gentile Director of Conservation Education 18 Eric Helms Director of Risk Management & Facilities Melodie Scott-Leach Director of Horticulture Subscriptions to Riverbanks are $24 per year. Members of Riverbanks Tommy Stringfellow Society are entitled to one free subscription along with free admission and Director of Marketing guest passes, discounts at & Garden gift shops, invitations to special Keith Benson, DVM events and much more. To subscribe to Riverbanks or to join the Society, Senior Veterinarian call 803.779.8717 x1111 or x1239. Andy Cabe Curator of Horticulture Riverbanks Zoological Park and Botanical Garden is accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association and the American Association John Davis of Botanical Gardens and Arboreta. Curator of Scott Pfaff Curator of Herpetology Bob Seibels Curator of Birds Front cover: Harris’ hawk Photograph by Ashley Walker 28069 2/23/06 11:18 PM Page 1

The Observation Deck

t seems that I have David Fleay Wildlife Park and the manager of the written far too many Moggill Koala Hospital were dispatched to Columbia. i “Observation Deck” They spent a week pouring over every aspect of our columns about health program, from the quality of our eucalyptus to our issues related to our koalas. veterinary program and even the cleaning products we As you probably know, use. We were quite pleased that their 29-page report during a routine weekly included only a few minor suggestions, and also a very exam in early January, one supportive statement about the high quality of our of our keepers discovered program. Based upon this study, we (and the Australians) a mass on the side of the are confident that the medical problems we have neck of our only male koala, experienced are completely unrelated. Mirai. The mass was removed Finally, we have to ask: What is the future of our koala later that same day, and program? The short answer is, we really don’t know. If Mirai has since been Mirai’s cancer is indeed terminal (koalas with this type of diagnosed with a particularly aggressive form of tumor typically live only a few months) we will then be lymphoma. Based upon the data available to us, we left with just two females. Due to the fact that our koalas feel that Mirai’s cancer is almost certainly terminal. fall under Australia’s Animal Ambassador Agreement, Mirai’s condition raises a number of concerns. Like there is currently only one male koala in the United all of the animals under our care, our first and foremost States (at the Los Angeles Zoo) with which they can be concern is with Mirai’s physical and psychological well placed. This means that our best chance to extend the being. After consulting with koala experts in Australia program is by importing additional animals, either as well as veterinary and human oncologists in the directly from Australia (as with our two females) or United States, we know that this type of tumor is not perhaps from Japan (as with our males). Importation is uncommon in koalas in captivity and the wild. We also complicated by two related facts. Koalas only live about know that, due to the very unique physiology of the 8 to 12 years, and our two females are rapidly koala, many traditional and non-traditional forms of approaching 5 years of age. Combine this with the fact treatment are not an option. For example, some koalas that the importation of animals from either Japan or have died within hours of receiving chemotherapy. As I Australia is likely to take a year or more, and you quickly write this column, Mirai is living in the Koala see our dilemma. One thing we do know for certain is Knockabout, a place where he has always been quite that the Queensland government, under the leadership content. He is eating well and displays normal koala of Premier Peter Beattie, is committed to the program behavior. Just like the other animals in the Zoo, we will and will do everything possible to insure its success. provide him with everything at our disposal to keep him I would like to thank everyone who has called or as comfortable as possible. dropped by the Zoo with treatment suggestions. We very It’s no secret that we have experienced some really much appreciate and understand your concern. While bad luck with our koalas. Mirai’s cancer was preceded we may not know what the future holds for our koalas, by the death of the other male, Kei, as well as the death we do know that they have inspired millions of people of our first-born joey, Karoo. Following Karoo’s death we since their arrival in 2002, and as such have served as contacted the Queensland government and asked that wonderful ambassadors for Australia, Queensland, and they send a team of experts to thoroughly study our their wild counterparts. It is our sincere hope that we can program and help us identify any problems. We did this continue this lofty goal for many years to come. even though our management program had been reviewed in great detail prior to the koalas’ arrival. Based on our request, the wildlife team leader from the

Mission statement

It is our mission to foster appreciation and concern for all living things. We are dedicated to providing: ◆ the highest standards of care for our animal and plant collections ◆ a diverse educational and high-quality recreational experience for all Riverbanks visitors ◆ all the resources at our disposal for the conservation of the earth’s flora and fauna.

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Lights,Lights, camerascameras OnOn LocationLocation withwith aa CloseClose EncounEncou

By Lisa Galloway, Bird Keeper Houdini is a born performer, a superstar, indeed; he seems to really enjoy the shouts of happy surprise as he almost touches you with the tips of his wings.

If you have ever walked into the main Entrance since 2001, but the star of the show has always been Plaza of the Zoo around 1:30pm, you probably have Houdini, a 4-year-old Harris’ hawk. Houdini came seen our bird of prey flying display. It is unlike any to Riverbanks when he was only 12 weeks old, bred other exhibit in the Zoo; the birds are released from by a falconer in Virginia. Houdini was young, eager their enclosures and encouraged to fly through, over to learn, and after careful training and conditioning and even under the audience–definitely a close could fly (free) in the presentation. In fact, he is the encounter of the feathered kind! The bird anchor of the show, the founder of the show and the presentation started in 2001 as an experiment to see character without whom the presentation would lack whether it would be popular with our guests. Since critical verve. the very first day, the presentation has been a great Houdini is a born performer, a superstar, indeed, hit because it provides a rare chance to get within who is not averse to the occasional tantrum or inches of a bird of prey. Even more importantly, the period of boredom and lethargy. Like any smart and presentation teaches the essential environmental energetic animal, Houdini-the-hawk is always role that meat-eating birds play, as well as many looking for the next challenge, something that will things we can do to help protect them. test both his mental and aerial abilities. Although he We have flown several different types of birds loves to show off, he is sometimes reluctant to waste his amazing flying abilities, performing best to large crowds and more economically to smaller ones, especially if they appear disinterested. We think of “bird brains” as lacking intelligence or awareness; of course, the phrase itself is synonymous with just that. But we have all been surprised at Houdini’s apparent ability to detect an appreciative audience –the applause, the smiling faces, and the happy shrieks of children. He flies faster and with more enthusiasm. If he considers the audience unworthy though, he will loiter in the gutters of the gift shop or on high tree branches, knowingly AWOL, controlling us as he decides what to do next. He is a trained bird, and we are the trainers. But when Houdini is “performing” he is in charge, just as it should be. To make the presentation more 2 28069 2/23/06 11:19 PM Page 3 eras…Birderas…Bird Action!Action! EncounterEncounter ofof thethe FeatheredFeathered KindKind

challenging, rewarding and fun for Houdini, it is Through the BB&T Medical Clinic for Raptors and changed a little each day. He may fly through hoops Endangered Species, we have been able to add a held by children (or children at heart), weave new member to the Bird Department–a beautiful between palm trees or even catch food from the sky. female red-tailed hawk that we have named “Sora”. Houdini takes great delight in gathering from Sora is a very special bird. She was rescued and the gutter of the gift shop to drop on visitors’ heads, brought to Riverbanks for rehabilitation. Currently especially those not smiling, applauding or paying Sora is in training and doing very well. Hopefully, proper attention! But Houdini’s most favorite activity soon, she will have completed her training and will is to fly just close enough to you that a collision be able to join Houdini in the presentation. With an impressive 56-inch wingspan, Sora is a much larger bird than Houdini, guaranteed to add plenty of excitement and glamour to the presentation. Speaking of excitement, you may already have noticed a new stage that has been built in the Entrance Plaza. This will be the new home for the bird presentation, complete with dedicated sound-system and special enclosures for Houdini, Sora and a couple more of their fabulous feathered friends. All of this is possible because of a generous donation that has been made to Riverbanks in honor of a young lady named Misty Carroll. Misty recently passed away, but her great love for birds will not be forgotten. In fact, we plan to include a young parrot in the bird presentation to celebrate Misty’s love for those beautiful, intelligent and outgoing birds. Just seems all but inevitable. He seems to really enjoy as Houdini and Sora work to promote bird the shouts of happy surprise, like any performer, as conservation at home by showing us the wonders of he almost touches you with the tips of his wings. the natural world, so too will Misty’s parrot help us Soon, however, Houdini’s big ego will have to understand the fragile and interconnected nature share the spotlight with some new bird friends. Here of the tropical rainforest. at Riverbanks, for the past 25 years, we have been So look out and keep your eyes to the sky! There’s rehabilitating injured birds of prey. In 1996, BB&T always something taking wing at the Zoo. We are all sponsored our purpose-built raptor medical center. very excited and can’t wait for the show to really Injured birds of prey are brought to Riverbanks by take off. members of the public and treated by our team of veterinarians and technicians. Many birds are Lights, cameras…bird action! rehabilitated and can be released back into the wild. 3 28069 2/23/06 11:20 PM Page 4 JAZZ UP YOUR GARDEN ...with rare and unusual from Riverbanks Botanical Garden Plant Sale April 22, 9am-2pm Riverbanks Growing Center (Look for signs inside the West Columbia/Garden entrance)

x Amacrinum memoria-corsi

Hibiscus 'Raspberry Rose'

Abutilon megapotamicum

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Capsicum 'Numex Twilight'

Calycanthus x sinocalycanthus

Spigelia marilandica

Rosa 'Maggie'

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Plan Your Visit

Ready, Smile Get Set, and Say Go! “Cheese” March for Meals 5K Takes Runners and Walkers Another Year Through Zoo and Garden For the second year in a row, Riverbanks Zoo & On Saturday, March 4, Riverbanks Zoo & Garden Garden and The Real Yellow Pages® from BellSouth will be transformed into an early morning runner’s have teamed up to offer you a really wild “in your course to benefit Meals on Wheels, a nonprofit face” but totally safe encounter with the animals. administered through Senior Resources that delivers And if you bring your camera, you’ll be able to take meals to homebound senior citizens. the experience home with you! This year’s course takes runners up into Riverbanks Ever wonder what you might look like if you were Botanical Garden before they cross back over an elephant or maybe a zebra? Perhaps the giant Riverbanks’ foot bridge and along the anaconda better suits your personality… With this perimeter of the Zoo. Individuals and families who unique partnership, there are lots of fun choices! choose to walk the course will meander through the Consider becoming a lovely flower, or perhaps you’ll interior of the Zoo, completing a circuit that hits look your best decked out in a tuxedo like the dapper many of the Zoo’s highlights. Last year, 550 people participated in the run and emperor penguin? walk, raising over $41,000 for the Meals on Wheels Come visit Riverbanks Zoo to put your “best face program. In 2004, the event was named the Top forward” posing as one of these Riverbanks Fundraising Event in the Nation by the Meals on characters. Life-like illustrations of the animals and Wheels Association of America. Mayor Bob Coble the flower are mounted on a photo board with the and Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott have lent face area cut out, so you can insert your face and their support this year. create a photo op like no other. The boards are The race starts at 7:30am with event day located at various exhibits throughout the Zoo, so registration beginning at 6:15am. Registrants will have fun discovering them all! pay $25 to run and $20 to walk if they register As part of a partnership between The Real Yellow before March 3, and on the day of the race, Pages and Riverbanks Zoo, you’ll be able to capture your “wildest moments” every time you visit Riverbanks this year. The photo boards will continue to be up through February 2007. For more information, visit www.riverbanks.org or look in your Community Information pages at the front of your 2006 Columbia BellSouth directory in the Attractions/Events section.

registration bumps up to $30 for both runners & ◆ ◆ walkers. Registration fees include a T-shirt (while Explore Learn Enjoy supplies last) and a one-day pass to Riverbanks. Discover the NEW Members’ To register for the race or for more information, Night Series! Watch for details contact Senior Resources at 803.252.7734 or in the next issue of Riverbanks. www.seniorresourcesinc.org.

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mark your calendars

March May March 1 - Wedding Symposium - Bouquets Beaucoup May 3 - Wedding Symposium - Don’t Gotta Lotta Love March 4 - March for Meals for Love Shack? April May 4 - First Thursdays in the Garden featuring the April 5 - Wedding Symposium - When the Dark Room harmony driven rock & blues of Stillhouse Goes Digital May 20- Wine Tasting at Riverbanks Botanical Garden April 6 - First Thursdays in the Garden featuring June acoustic favorites with Jules Verne and local June 1 - First Thursdays in the Garden potter Sue Beasley June 5 - Summer Camps Begin (8 week-long sessions) April 8 - Breakfast with the Bunny June 7 - Wedding Symposium - “No Vacancy” at the April 10-12- ZOOm! Into Spring Camp Heartbreak Hotel June 8 - NEW Members’ Night Series Begins Library wish list

iverbanks staff members have included the following books on their wish lists for the Library Wish Fund. R (All the books needed by the Zoo & Garden are not shown here. For a complete listing, call the number below.) Landscape Plants for Subtropical Climates $18 Crustacea Guide to the World $62 No turning back; the life & death of animal species $25 Temperature dependent sex determination Tropical Ornamentals $25 in vertebrates $65 In Search of the Ivory-billed Woodpecker $28 Tropical Foliage Plants $65 Edible Flower Garden $30 Mergus Cichlid Atlas $70 Photographic Guide to Birds of SE Asia $30 Behavior and Physiology of Fish $105 Life at the Zoo $30 Restoration of Boreal & Temperate Forests $120 Gardens & Historic Plants of the South $33 Amphibians & Reptiles of Nepal $150 World Atlas of Great Apes $33 Fishes of the World $190 Tropical & Subtropical Plants $35 Manual of Diagnostic Tests & Vaccines $190 Veterinary Anesthesia Drug Reference $43 Fish Nutrition $210 Guide to the Reptiles of Pakistan $50 Clinical Avian Medicine $255 Veterinary Clinical Parasitology $60 For a complete list of books available for sponsorship, please contact the Riverbanks Society Office at 803.779.8717 x1240 or x1111, or email us at [email protected]. Help make a wish come true! Celebrate… Honor… Remember…. Make a Lasting Impression with Engraved Bricks at Riverbanks From birthday and graduation gifts to honorariums ◆For each brick ordered, a formal Certificate of and memorials, personalized bricks are an exceptional Engraving suitable to give as a gift will be mailed to way to mark special occasions and commemorate the brick donor. loved ones. Engraved tribute bricks not only serve as a ◆A formal Certificate of Installation will be mailed to permanent celebration of friends and family but also the brick donor for each brick that has been placed. provide building blocks for the future, helping to Time frame for installation cannot be guaranteed. ◆ make Riverbanks Zoo a better place for the animals, Brick donations support the Riverbanks mission: to our children and our community. foster appreciation and concern for all living things. ◆Bricks may be ordered online at www.riverbanks.org or you can call 803.779.8717 x1111 to request an PAVING THE WAY order form. ◆Engraved bricks are available for a tax-deductible contribution of $100 each. ◆Inscriptions are limited to 18 characters per line, up RESERVE YOUR BRICKS TODAY to 3 lines per brick. Characters include spaces, Hurry! A limited number of 4x8 bricks are punctuation, ampersands, etc. available in the Zoo's Entrance Plaza.

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In The Know

By – Ed Diebold, Director of Animal Collections

Adventures in (Animal) Moving Once the new Gentoo penguins join Riverbanks’ How do you transport an elephant? What’s it take existing flocks of king and rockhopper penguins at the to move an ape? Questions like these are common Penguin Coast exhibit in the Birdhouse, the Zoo will among our members and guests. Typically, move have three species of penguins on exhibit that animals from place to place by air. However, in order routinely inhabit and breed in many of the same to ensure the safety and welfare of the animals being locales in sub-Antarctic regions of the world. In this shipped, commercial airlines will only accept live case, the choice to move the penguins by refrigerated animals for shipment when the air temperature is truck had more to do with the birds’ highly specialized between about 45 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This environmental requirements than with the availability leaves a relatively small window of time each year in of quarantine space. The truck was maintained at a which animals can be moved freely between zoos and comfortable (for a penguin) 45 degrees Fahrenheit, aquariums. To add to this challenge, each animal that and the floor was covered with a layer of “snow” to enters the Riverbanks collection must go through an help keep the birds cool during transport. in-house quarantine period, usually ranging between Upon arrival at Riverbanks on January 6, the penguins 30 and 60 days, before it can come in contact with took up temporary residence in the Penguin Exhibit existing collection animals. Riverbanks has a limited Isolation Room in the Birdhouse for an approximately amount of quarantine space available in the Animal 60-day quarantine period. The penguins are being Health Center, so it is easy to understand what a quarantined in this room because of their need for challenge it can be sometimes to acquire the consistently cold and filtered air and a chilled-water necessary animals for the collection. pool in which to swim and bathe. Look for the Gentoo So, when it is too cold to ship by air and that penguins in the Penguin Coast exhibit of the valuable quarantine space becomes available, more Birdhouse in March. drastic measures are sometimes called for … like a 14-hour, one-way road trip to Syracuse, New York, in New Female Giraffe Slow to “Stick Her Neck Out” the dead of winter! On December 27, Curator of Sharon and Charlie are the two new giraffes that Mammals John Davis and Swing Keeper recently arrived from the Sedgwick County Zoo in Butch Yowler climbed into a van and headed north up Wichita, Kansas. I am pleased to report that both the interstate to the Seneca Park Zoo in Syracuse. Their Sharon and Charlie have adapted very well to their goal: To pick up a female red-necked wallaby for the new home at Riverbanks. However, as I sit writing this Riverbanks animal collection. John and Butch watched article, Sharon has yet to gain the confidence the weather closely and picked a few days when the necessary for her to venture from the off-exhibit barn high temperatures in Syracuse were forecast to be and outdoor holding paddock into the exhibit where around 40 degrees. They were able to make the trip Riverbanks guests can see her. uneventfully, encountering Many animals, even domestic pets like cats and only some light snow along dogs, are wary of new environments, and it is critical the way, and arrived (people that their early experiences in their new homes be and wallaby) safely in positive. For now, Sharon feels comfortable in the barn Columbia on December 29. and paddock. If our animal care staff were to rush By the time this magazine Sharon and force her to enter the new exhibit before is in print, the new wallaby she is ready to do so on her own, it may cause her to will have been introduced to resist shifting into the the existing mob (a group of exhibit and/or back into kangaroos/wallabies) of red- the barn in the future. necked and Parma wallabies The Riverbanks animal in their enclosure alongside the Koala Knockabout. care staff uses operant On January 4, Senior Bird Keeper Doug Alls conditioning and positive and Bird Keeper Heather Hayes piloted a 20-foot long reinforcement to shape the refrigerated truck due south from Riverbanks to Sea behaviors of animals in World in Orlando, Florida, to pick up a new group of the collection. Therefore, five male and five female Gentoo penguins. The 10 we will continue to allow penguins range in age from 2 to 13 years, and all were Sharon to make the hatched and reared at the Sea World Park. In order to transition at her own make room for the Gentoos, Riverbanks worked pace, rewarding her closely with the African Penguin Species Survival Plan for any progress she (SSP) to find homes for the Zoo’s African penguins makes in the direction (They’re moving to the Knoxville Zoo and the new of consistently shifting Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta). into the exhibit yard. 8 28069 2/23/06 11:22 PM Page 9

We appreciate your patience as Sharon adjusts to tissue growth over many months. Once filled, it will her new home. For now, you can easily tell Charlie be time for her next molt. from the two 5-year-old females, Ginger and Krissy, As with this molt, each time it molts the spider crab who enjoy the exhibit with him. Because he is only 2 will emerge approximately 15% bigger and a lovely years old, at about 12 feet tall, he is still much shorter shade of spring pink! The molted skeleton is quite than the females. This will change quickly, though. Mature male giraffes can reach a height of 18 feet! Baboon Exhibit to Undergo Renovation As Riverbanks guests first glimpse the Zoo when crossing the railroad tracks into the parking lot of the main entrance, they see the tops of a series of exhibits that were originally constructed when the Zoo opened in 1974. Internally, we refer to these exhibits as the “cat and bear” area, and they house some of the largest and most charismatic animals at Riverbanks. Amur tigers, African , spotted hyenas, grizzly impressive, and it has been preserved for use in bears, spider monkeys and Diana monkeys can all Riverbanks’ education activities. be found here. Over the years, all but one of these exhibits have New and Improved Animal Presentations experienced renovations that have created more varied Throughout the day there are a number of animal and naturalistic habitats for the animals and have presentations available to Riverbanks guests. These enhanced the exhibits’ aesthetic appeal. Gunite include a sea feeding at 10:30am, penguin surfaces (textured and painted, steel reinforced presentation at 11:00am, gorilla presentation at concrete) have been broken out and replaced with 11:30am, dive demonstration at the large Indo-Pacific pockets of heavy plantings. Straight metal handrails tank in the Aquarium Reptile Complex (ARC) at across the exhibit fronts have been replaced with 12:30pm, bird flight demonstration in the Zoo’s meandering split wood rail barriers and softened by Entrance Plaza at 1:30pm, sea lion training at 3:00pm, plant material. Early this year the last of these exhibits and penguin presentation again at 3:30pm. These will undergo renovation. presentations are extremely popular with Riverbanks The exhibit immediately to the right of the main Zoo guests, and I am pleased to share with you a few entrance is home to Hamadryas baboons and Nubian things that will soon be done to improve the lineup. ibex. This exhibit, which was originally constructed You may have already noticed that a new stage has exclusively of gunite, will soon sport large recently been constructed in the Entrance Plaza in the grass/planted areas as well as several new climbing front of the Birdhouse. A sound system will soon be structures for the baboons and additional shade added to the stage, bird holding areas constructed next structures for both the baboons and ibex. We would to it, and the stage will become the new base of like to extend a special thanks to those who attended operation for the free flight bird demonstration. The the 2005 Wild Things Safari. This renovation of the construction of the stage, sound system and bird baboon/ibex exhibit is made possible, in part, by holding area was made possible by a generous, private funds raised at the Safari. Check out the progress donation in memory of a young lady named Misty on your next visit! Carroll who recently passed away. Misty loved parrots, and in her honor, Riverbanks is in the process of A New Spring Dress acquiring a colorful scarlet macaw to be flown in the Riverbanks experienced a first-ever giant Japanese free flight demonstration. Also, later in the year, this spider crab molt event in January. The female spider demonstration will expand beyond birds to include a crab has been in the Aquarium Reptile Complex since herding dog. Herding demonstrations will be the summer of 2004, and according to Aquarium accompanied by an underlying message about the Supervisor Melissa Hartley, this animal eventually may importance of good stewardship for pets. obtain a leg span of 13 feet. This spring, animal keepers and Zoo educators also Crabs grow through the molting process. A crab’s will begin to use the stage as a base for impromptu molt begins under the exoskeleton where a new soft animal demonstrations. The times and topics of these and wrinkly skeleton takes shape. Upon completion, demonstrations will be variable and will be the hard outer skeleton splits, and the crab crawls out announced on a day-by-day basis on a changeable of the unwanted layer. It is a difficult time for a crab message board located at the stage. Similar and is sometimes unsuccessful. After the molt, the presentations will occur at various areas around the crab sits and waits for the new exoskeleton to harden, park and will be advertised on signage in each area as a process that begins immediately, and during which well as during the existing scheduled presentations. time the crab must be protected from tank mates. We hope you will join us! The exoskeleton hardens in part as a result of water soaking into the crab’s body and new exoskeleton. Until the next time … The space that the water then occupies inside the new carapace will slowly be filled in with new 9 28069 2/23/06 11:22 PM Page 10

gorillas has advanced significantly since the 1970s when successful births were MeetMeet thethe uncommon and animals were generally exhibited either alone or in pairs. Today, zoo BachelorsBachelors managers recognize the importance of pairing a single male gorilla with multi-female groups. This strategy produces a group composition similar to that encountered in the wild, promoting species-typical interactions, increasing reproductive success and educating the public about the natural history and ecology of gorillas. In the North American gorilla population, a male is born for every female, creating a surplus of males. Maintaining captive gorillas in species- typical groups means that some males will inevitably be without female social partners. Zoo managers have accepted the responsibility of providing them with suitable housing and addressing both their physical and psychological needs through the formation of all- male or “bachelor” groups. Currently there are 17 gorilla bachelor groups in accredited zoos across the country, including Riverbanks. Wild male gorillas normally live as solitary individuals for a period of time after leaving their natal groups and before acquiring female partners. These young males often join a bachelor group at 6-10 years of Chaka age. The group provides protection from predators as well By – John Davis, Curator of Mammals as an opportunity to learn Lynn Yakubinis, Gorilla Keeper valuable socialization skills, preparing them to one day lead their own family group. Currently there are 17 gorilla bachelor groups in Captive zoo managers have accredited zoos across the country. carefully examined the requirements to formulate and Three of the most popular 27 bachelor groups, supporting maintain a successful gorilla animals at Rivebanks are male efforts to maintain a genetically bachelor group in captivity for gorillas. Over the next 15 years viable and demographically the short term. Current research approximately 80 male gorillas stable captive population. suggests that choosing young will be living in an estimated The management of captive males (4-6 years old) with 10 28069 2/23/06 11:22 PM Page 11

gorilla in the troop. He is best identified by his round face, protruding lower lip and the prominent silver hair covering his back; hence the name silverback. Born on July 22, 1984, at the Philadelphia Zoo, Chaka is a very patient and confident leader. Although he behaves in a shy manner towards new people, places and things, he is a great role model for the younger males, Mike and Kimya. He is very tolerant of their immature social behavior and only occasionally uses an aggressive response to correct them. If one of the younger males takes something that Chaka wants, or if they overexert their dominance with him, he normally responds with a facial gesture or a “bluff display” (a show of dominance) that quickly modifies the younger male’s behavior. Mike and Kimya will benefit from these interactions with Chaka one day as they mature and continue to learn the role of a silverback. Mike was born on December 24, 1991, at the . He is the smallest gorilla and has shorter hair on his arms. Mike prefers to spend the majority of the day by himself and is often found resting on exhibit in an area densely covered with foliage. For the present time, Mike is content with his position in the troop and avoids any challenging confrontations with Mike Chaka and Kimya. Mike and Kimya will play as young males previous experience in a family Philadelphia Zoo. This special are apt to do, but Mike is careful group is an important component delivery was accomplished in an not to push too hard. Mike has in successfully managing air-conditioned truck carrying one peculiar and unique all-male groups. Riverbanks Zoo’s three sturdy crates each characteristic that has been managers carefully researched containing a male gorilla. Our noted by his keepers. He is facility design, husbandry staff had been anticipating the occasionally clumsy and has methods and even traveled to gorillas’ arrival for some time been observed tripping over other institutions in order to and the day had finally come. objects or slipping while climbing. select the ideal gorilla troop. The three gorillas–Chaka, Mike He is quick to recover and In July 2004, our gorilla and Kimya–were safely fortunately has not sustained any keepers were eagerly anticipating transferred from their crates into injuries due to his mishaps. He is a phone call that would inform their new home at Riverbanks. also the most active gorilla in the them of a delivery from the Chaka is the oldest and largest troop, frequently trying to 11 28069 2/23/06 11:22 PM Page 12

engage the keepers in various chase games through the mesh barrier while they perform their daily work routine. Mike is very observant, occasionally interacting with Zoo visitors by displaying in front of the exhibit glass, as if to provoke an interaction. Kimya is the youngest gorilla at Riverbanks, having been born on January 11, 1994, at the Toledo Zoo. Kimya is growing rapidly and it is sometimes difficult to distinguish him from Chaka, since they are nearly the same size. Kimya is very respectful of Chaka’s position as the dominant silverback and often mimics his behavior. Recently, Kimya has adopted the behavior of dropping his lower lip, making the distinction between the two even more challenging. Fortunately, Kimya’s face is narrower and longer, comprising the only significant difference between the two. These two are tightly bonded and can often be seen wrestling and engaging in other play behaviors. Kimya positively interacts with Mike as well, balancing his time with both gorillas. Riverbanks Zoo’s gorilla exhibit is ideal for maintaining a bachelor group, having been designed to simulate the gorilla’s Central African rainforest habitat. The spacious exhibit area, with Kimya lush tropical plantings, provides the gorillas with novel food American Zoo & Aquarium and field research is expected to items as well as places to be Association’s Gorilla Species enhance the techniques used in alone if they choose. Survival Plan, over the next 15 forming and maintaining gorilla Supplemental browse items such years approximately 80 male bachelor groups, thus improving as willow, lady banks rose and gorillas will be living in an the captive management of this banana leaves are also offered to estimated 27 bachelor groups, magnificent creature. the gorillas to allow the exhibit thereby supporting efforts to Next time you visit the Zoo, be plants to recover and to add maintain a genetically viable and sure to stop by Gorilla Base some variety to their diet. demographically stable captive Camp and the Ndoki Forest to With the current number of population. Management of meet the bachelors. males in the population and the bachelors in a captive setting continued success of captive does not come without gorilla breeding programs, more challenges, and successful bachelor groups will need to be long-term strategies are still created and maintained in the being investigated. Ongoing zoo future. According to the 12 28069 2/23/06 11:22 PM Page 13

Members Offered Disney on Ice’s Finding Nemo Tickets Early

Riverbanks SCE&G ZooView Named Riverbanks is partnering with Disney on Ice presents One of “25 Most Interesting Webcams” Disney/Pixar’s Finding Nemo to offer Nemo fans a special educational opportunity during the month of Riverbanks Zoo & Garden and SCE&G were March. From March 3-31, Nemo enthusiasts will be recently recognized internationally for their work able to complete an aquatic scavenger hunt when showcasing Riverbanks’ animals with state-of-the-art they visit Riverbanks’ Aquarium Reptile Complex (ARC). webcam technology. For the past year, Riverbanks’ The scavenger hunt webcam has focused on the Zoo’s koalas. sends kids through Earthcam’s top 25 webcams of 2006 are from all over Riverbanks’ various the world, including Africa, Austria, Japan, Spain, tanks, searching for Sweden, France, England and the United States. Nemo and all of his Riverbanks’ SCE&G ZooView Webcam is one of only friends. Kids who two zoo webcams honored (PandaCam at National complete the hunt Zoo in Washington, D.C. is the other). successfully and turn Other interesting webcams focus on such diverse in their completed form sites as the Great Pyramids in Egypt, Paris’ Eiffel Tower, at the ARC’s exit will a panoramic view of the city of Tokyo, Japan, and be eligible to win plush more unusual sites like the Anchorage, Alaska Nemo toys as well as Department of Motor Vehicles’ waiting room, JailCam tickets to Disney on Ice which follows real detainees through the booking presents Disney/Pixar’s process at Tennessee’s Anderson County Sheriff’s Finding Nemo, set to Department, and Graceland Cam, which highlights the show April 6-9 at the opulence of the late Elvis Presley’s home. Colonial Center. Kids Riverbanks’ SCE&G ZooView WebCam will soon who participate in the scavenger hunt will turn its attention to the Zoo’s Penguin Coast exhibit at automatically receive a coupon for $3 off the purchase the Birdhouse, where 10 new Gentoo penguins price of a ticket to Disney on Ice presents recently acquired from Orlando’s Sea World are now Disney/Pixar’s Finding Nemo. making their new home. Check out Riverbanks’ As an added benefit of this partnership, the Colonial SCE&G ZooView WebCam at www.riverbanks.org. Center is allowing Riverbanks Society members to purchase their Finding Nemo tickets early online at Riverbanks Gathers Signatures for www.thecolonialcenter.com/promotions or by calling 2 Million for $2 Million Campaign 866.4SC.TIXX. Tickets are on sale now and Riverbanks Thanks go out to all Riverbanks members and friends Society members should use code ZXA. Hurry! The who signed the 2 Million for $2 Million petition at the shows are expected to sell out quickly. Zoo or on the Riverbanks Web site in January and Parents can download the scavenger hunt online at February. The American Zoo and Aquarium www.riverbanks.org or pick up a copy at the ARC during their visit. Winning entries will be drawn Association (AZA) called its 210 member zoos and weekly and Riverbanks will contact all winners. aquariums together to support the Multinational Species Conservation Fund, and Riverbanks Zoo and Garden answered the call! Together, zoos and aquariums from across the country asked Congress to consider allocating $2 million for each of the six critically endangered species covered under the fund, which currently protects elephants, tigers, great apes, marine turtles and rhinos. Signatures are still being counted, but when executive director Satch Krantz travels to Washington, D.C. later this month to present Riverbanks’ contribution to this important effort, the AZA hopes to have collected 2 million signatures–enough to send a strong message about the value zoos and aquariums place on conservation.

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Romance Riverbanks at Riverbanks Wedding Symposiums Brought to you by Riverbanks Botanical Garden on the first Wednesday of every month:

March 1, 2006 Bouquets Beaucoup Finding fragrant that’ll make you swoon but not fall over

April 5, 2006 When the Dark Room Goes Digital Wedding photography veterans go over the benefits and drawbacks of film versus digital photography

May 3, 2006 Don’t Gotta Lotta Love for Love Shack? Photograph by www.MichaelKoska.com Discuss first dances, the clichéd songs we all love to hate, and what it takes to create a song list that’ll be Riverbanks’ New Approach to Wedding Planning contemporary, memorable and Makes For More Stress-Free Brides will still get the grandmas groovin’ In her over 20 years in the wedding business, veteran wedding planner June 7, 2006 and Riverbanks Zoo and Garden’s facilities rentals manager Dorothy Team has seen more than her fair share of anxious brides. Even the sweetest, “No Vacancy” at the Heartbreak Hotel most even-tempered brides can get stressed out, forgetting their manners Hotel experts dish the dirt on group and vexing their attendants as they strive to make their wedding day both rates, blocks of rooms and how meaningful and memorable. booking early guarantees your “A couple of years ago, it dawned on me that women in the Midlands guests less grief needed a more relaxed way to plan their weddings,” Team said. “Girls were getting engaged, running out and booking a site and a caterer and a July 5, 2006 photographer all in the course of a few weeks. The brides I worked with on Cooking Up a Menu Without a regular basis at Riverbanks Botanical Garden just seemed so stressed. I Burning Down the House wanted to create something fun that would help them plan their day, but How to budget for and plan a that would also give them the chance to be spoiled.” And with that, Team’s wedding symposiums were born. Open to all brides, mouthwatering menu no matter regardless of whether they’re getting married at Riverbanks, the symposiums what the size of your reception are a simpler, more relaxed version of the crazed bridal shows that have become so popular in recent years. Lectures begin at 6:30 p.m. and Team has nicknamed them “Wedding Wednesdays.” Held on the first are free and open to the public. Wednesday of each month, they offer brides-to-be, their mothers, sisters Enjoy guest speakers, question and and friends the opportunity to enjoy exquisite catering and learn about answer sessions, special opportunities one element of wedding planning at a time. to meet vendors, door prizes, and “Going to a bridal show can be so overwhelming. You’re thrown so invitation-only discounts. Seating much information at once and it’s difficult to switch gears-talking about is limited so brides are wedding cakes one minute and tuxedos the next. For a lot of brides, it’s encouragedto pre-register just turning into information overload,” Team said. Each month, the wedding symposiums cover one topic. A session on online at www.riverbanks.org. stationery might walk brides through wording their invitations, RSVP cards and more. Sample menu items from Riverbanks’ catering service are always provided as appetizers, and after the lecture brides can visit with a host of Romance at Riverbanks different stationers to view samples, place orders or just get information. ● ● “These are meant to be fun and informative,” Team said. “We’re trying Stylish Sophisticated Simple to give stressed out brides-to-be an hour out of their busy month to relax www.riverbanks.org – 803.779.8717 x1123 and take wedding planning one step at a time.” The 2006 wedding symposiums will run March through July with a break in August and then again from September through January. 14 28069 2/24/06 3:18 PM Page 15

Riverbanks and Woodley’s Budding with Good News Riverbanks is pleased to announce a growing partnership with Woodley’s Garden Center, official sponsor of First Thursdays in the Garden 2006. While Riverbanks members and guests will see signs in the Botanical Garden pointing out Woodley’s perennial of the week, customers at Woodley’s will discover a new Riverbanks section showcasing plants that can be found in the themed gardens of the Botanical Garden as well as a Riverbanks information center informing patrons about what’s blooming in the Garden. Riverbanks’ botanical staff will also be presenting seminars at Woodley’s periodically through the year; topics will include the Riverbanks plant collection, knot and texture garden, midnight garden and shade garden. As an added benefit of this budding collaboration, Riverbanks Society members who present their membership cards at Woodley’s will be entitled to a 10% discount on purchases (some restrictions apply). You can visit Woodley’s online via the Riverbanks Web site; just click on the Woodley’s logo on the Delight in the Garden or Society Membership page.

Mark Your Calendars for These Seminars at Woodley’s

March 25 & 26 - Spring Festival Weekend Riverbanks Plant Collection June 10 - Riverbanks Knot & Texture Garden June 24 - Riverbanks Midnight Garden October 7 & 8 - Fall Festival Weekend Riverbanks Shade Garden

Woodley’s Garden Center is located at 10,015 Two Notch Road, Columbia, SC 29223. www.woodleygardencenter.com

First Thursdays in the Garden Blossoms into Perennial Favorite Join us at Riverbanks on April 6 as we kick off First Thursdays in the Garden, a refreshing alternative to the standard after-hours getaway. Thanks to the tremendous response of First Thursday attendees in 2005 and a generous sponsorship by Woodley’s Garden Center, Riverbanks Botanical Garden will once again open its gates from 6 to 9pm on the first Thursday of each month, April through October. First Thursday guests will have the opportunity to meet and discover local artists, listen to live music, talk to trained horticulturists and fall in step with an impromptu tour. Plus, a representative from Woodley’s Garden Center will be on hand to show plants and give gardening advice. Admission is $2 for Society members, $4 for the general public.

Mark Your Calendars for First Thursdays in the Garden April 6–acoustic favorites with Jules Verne and local potter Sue Beasley May 4–harmony driven rock & blues with Stillhouse More First Thursdays–June 1, July 6, August 3, September 7 and October 5

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delight in the garden

Zoo animals aren't the only wild things that make a trip to Riverbanks fun! Join us in the Botanical Garden for a Flower Safari…

While tooling through the Zoo and Garden last spring, these amazing blooms were caught in the act of flowering. Visit Riverbanks this March and April to see some great flowers in their natural habitats.

Edgeworthis chrysantha Odd-looking flowers make this small a showstopper in March. When not in flower the long leaves make an attractive plant. Look in the Hot Perennial Border to spot this unusual specimen.

Iris cristata This dwarf beauty adds vivid color to the shade garden before other plants have even thought about waking up for the season. Find it in the Riverbanks Shade Garden.

Paulownia tomentosa This Chinese princess tree is a rapid grower and can be weedy in the U.S., but you don't have to grow it. We have one for you to enjoy in the Zoo’s Entrance Plaza. The flowers are truly huge, as are the leaves.

Berberis 'Red Tears' This plant makes you rethink barberries. These amazing flowers are about two inches long and bright, bright yellow. This shrub reaches about 6-8 feet. Look for it in the Art Garden.

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Clematis armandii This evergreen clematis was spotted climbing several walls in the Garden. The white flowers cover the vine like a giant puffy cloud. This dazzling vine can be found throughout Riverbanks.

Sanguinaria canadensis What a bright spot in the shade garden. This petite native rests quietly throughout much of the year, but in March the bright white flowers explode. Check out bloodroot in the Riverbanks Shade Garden.

Kerria japonica 'Golden Guinea' The explosive yellow blooms on this small shrub were named for the guinea coin. The flowers are larger than usual and a deep golden color. Come see this japonica in the Old Rose Garden.

Rosa x 'Rev d'Or' Not only will you find this beauty in the Old Rose Garden but about 100 other roses as well. April is the prime time to see and smell old roses at Riverbanks. Look throughout the Zoo and Garden for all the great roses.

Rhododendron austrinum Bold, bright color for shady areas is what you get from native azaleas. Hybrid azaleas can be overwhelming in flower size and growth habit. Natives are a great alternative, especially in the woodland garden. You will notice these dazzlers when you are waiting for the tram in the Zoo.

Styrax japonicus 'Pink Chimes' Delicate flowers coat this small tree in spring. The flowers are of course pink-tinged and resemble small bells. This is a great tree for small gardens. Find this great Styrax in the spring Shrub Border.

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DancingDancing withwith thethe FlamingosFlamingos

By – Clint Carroll, Flamingo Keeper

Spring is almost here, and like a perfectly thereby creating the second dance move–the choreographed waltz, the days are getting longer, the wing-salute. These two simple displays inspire weather is getting warmer and bulbs are emerging from other birds to join in. the soil. This natural rhythm of the season is also a signal Next is an inverted wing-salute, which is nothing to Riverbanks’ flamingos that it will soon be time to find more than a single, exaggerated wing flap. During this a mate, build a nest and lay an egg. But to do this, every step, the neck is stretched parallel to the ground with the bird in the flock must be ready to breed at the same time bill pointing forward; the wings are rotated forward and to ensure their eggs are laid simultaneously. A unified opened for two to ten seconds creating the odd look of effort will help decrease the chance that a single egg or a pink feather duster. chick will be destroyed by a predator. The final move is the twist-preen, lasting only a couple How do flamingos synchronize the mating process? of seconds. As the name implies, the performing They do so through a unique, beautiful and fascinating flamingo twists its neck and head over its back, and then dance. It's a colorful four-step performed by every pretends to preen its feathers. member of the flock–males and females alike. Only a few participate in this bird ballet during the The first step is called head-flagging. To begin, a few early spring; but as the season progresses and more birds birds gather in a small group. Each bird stands as tall as feel the urge, the frequency and intensity of the dance possible while stretching its neck to hold its head and increases until the entire flock is flagging and flapping, bill high. Then the whole group moves their heads from twisting and preening. By observing other members of left to right and back again calling to each other with the flock, the flamingos know when it is time to look for their goose-like voices. a mate. So the next time you visit the Zoo, stop by the While head-flagging, some birds flash their wings, flamingo exhibit to catch a glimpse of this spectacle, and showing their contrasting pink and black wing feathers, see if you have what it takes to dance with the flamingos.

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Enjoy a Bountiful Buffet with the Easter Bunny Saturday, April 8 Seating begins at 9am Spring into the season with Riverbanks’ annual Breakfast with the Bunny! Families can hippity-hop on over to Ndoki Lodge where children will meet and greet the Easter Bunny and the Riverbanks Penguin. Kids of all ages will enjoy the Southern breakfast buffet complete with scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, biscuits and gravy, and fresh hot pancakes. No “rabbit food” here–this is a breakfast that is sure to put a smile on everybunny’s face. Don’t forget to bring your camera– this is an event you will want to remember! Space is limited and reservations are required. Ticket Prices* $16 per person – ages 8 through adult $12 per person – children ages 3–7 Free for children under age 3 *Zoo admission is not included in the ticket price. Sorry, high chairs are not available. Tickets are non-refundable. Call 803.779.8717 x1601 for more details or to make reservations.

Name______Street Address______City, State, Zip______Daytime Phone______Are you a Riverbanks Society Member? ❏ yes ❏ no # of guests 8 and over – X $16______# of guests ages 3–7 – X $12______#of children under age 3 – (free)______TOTAL ENCLOSED $______Make checks payable to: Riverbanks Zoo & Garden Mail To: Riverbanks Zoo Breakfast with Bunny PO Box 1060 Columbia, SC 29202-1060 Method of Payment: Check____ MC____ VISA____ Discover____ AMEX____ Hurry, space is limited! Account #______Reservations must be received by March 27, 2006. Expiration Date______Signature______Order your tickets online at www.riverbanks.org

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Imagine the impression your name would make…

…in the presence of nearly 1,000,000 visitors.

We are pleased to introduce a new and discounts, acknowledgement in Riverbanks improved Community Partner mosaic composed magazine and on our Web site, plus an of sturdy, richly colored, custom-glazed bricks invitation to an annual executive reception. with a solid brick center reserved for your business or family inscription. Only 58 mosaics remain and one can be yours for as little as $1,500 per year with a This heavy-duty design promises to withstand 3-year commitment. A portion of your the stresses of the outdoors and is a reflection contribution will be tax-deductible. For more of our long-term commitment to you. Be sure information, visit www.riverbanks.org, to stop by the Entrance Plaza pathway to see email [email protected] or thenew look. call 803.779.8717 x1240. The first 100 Riverbanks Community Partners not only receive this specially engraved mosaic but also free admission passes, facility rental

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Get Off Your Rocker! It’s Time to Take a Seat at Riverbanks. Each visit to Riverbanks promises a day filled with wild adventures and priceless memories. Now you can unwind along your journey in noble fashion. As a rocker sponsor, you can rest easy knowing a comfortable chair in our natural surroundings will cradle your special tribute or memorial message. Your personalized inscription will be engraved on a plaque and attached to the rocker of your choice. Crafted out of fine, weather-resistant teak wood, a Charleston rocking chair will provide a lasting place of comfort and reflection for all to enjoy. You can sponsor a rocking chair with a tax-deductible contribution of $700. Or for just $300 more, consider a Charleston glider with a seat for two. Hurry! Don’t sit on this offer too long—A limited number of rockers are available. Questions about rocker sponsorship? Call 803.779.8717 x1129 or email us at [email protected]

Ready to rock? Complete the form below and mail to: Riverbanks Society PO Box 1060 Columbia, SC 29202-1060

Or visit www.riverbanks.org

Are you a member of Riverbanks Society? Yes______No______Member Number______Purchaser’s Name______Address______City______State______Zip______Phone (Day)______(Evening)______❏ I would like to purchase a Charleston Rocker $700 each. ❏ I would like to purchase a Charleston Glider at $1,000 each. ______(Inscription is limited to 35–40 characters.) Method of Payment: Cash______Check______MC______VISA______Discover______AmEx______Check made payable to Riverbanks Society TOTAL $______

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Wine Tasting at Riverbanks Botanical Garden Saturday, May 20 = 7:00-9:30pm

Delight in one of the nation’s most beautiful and inspiring botanical gardens…. ◆ Sample fine domestic and international wines ◆ Refresh the palate with savory light bites ◆ Listen to live jazz with local band Little Cat Z ◆ Bid on garden-inspired art and an opportunity to take home a collection of the evening’s wines Advance tickets for members of Riverbanks Society ON SALE NOW - $40 Tickets for general public on sale April 10 - $50 Tickets available at the following locations: ◆ Morganelli’s Party Store on Forest Drive ◆ Onsite at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden ◆ Online at www.riverbanks.org ◆ By phone at 803.779.8717 x1601 Tickets must be purchased at Riverbanks, online or by phone to receive member discount. For orders online or by phone, a $5 processing fee will apply. All tickets will be $50 the day of event. A limited number of tickets are available. Must be 21 or older to attend. Hurry! A limited number of tickets will be sold. Proceeds support conservation and education efforts at Riverbanks.

Riverbanks society Non-Profit Org. For Summer Camp, U.S. Postage P.O. Box 1060 PAID Classes and more Columbia, SC 29202-1060 Columbia, S.C. Check Out the Permit No. 90 Riverbanks Adventures Insert Romance at Riverbanks Page 14