Parting with Plastics Reducing Disposable Plastic in Our Operations

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MARCH 2017

A publication of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums

GREEN PURCHASING AND INVESTING SUSTAINABILITY SPARKS BY THE NUMBERS Adopting Green Purchasing ENGAGEMENT, CREATIVITY AND ACTION Climate Change and Investing Strategies Sustainability Programs Engage Staff and Going Green in 2015 Interns and Volunteers

March 2017

Features 20 24 30 Parting with Plastics: Green Purchasing Sustainability Sparks Reducing Disposable and Investing Engagement, Creativity Plastic in Our Operations Association of Zoos and and Action Disposable plastics are Aquariums-accredited What do team building, everywhere and can have facilities tie reduced cost savings and urban devastating impacts on purchasing of carbon- gardening have in common? wildlife. Since mass production producing electricity They are all outcomes of started in 1950, plastics have to concerns about sustainability programs and permeated our world at a global warming and the initiatives at Association frenetic pace with roughly 300 acidification of oceans. of Zoos and Aquariums- million tons manufactured Others are making accredited facilities that have worldwide in 2013. packaging changes to successfully engaged staff, reduce their contributions BY WANDA EVANS interns and volunteers. to landfills and to address BY EMILY BRYANT the dangers to wildlife that are posed by improperly discarded plastic. BY TOM PRICE

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Member View Departments

7 Conservation Spotlight 11 Reintroduction 15 By the Numbers 40 Faces & Places Utah’s boreal toads are taking ABQ BioPark released Climate change and going 43 Calendar conservation to the classroom 54,000 Rio Grande silvery green in 2015 minnows in 2016 45 Exhibits 8 Art 16 Research This month’s selection of Elementary school 12 Grant 46 Announcements students create, auction Mystic Aquarium Receives what has been published sculptures inspired by grant for collaboration 49 Advertiser Index 17 Green Denver Zoo exhibit with Marine Science Magnet High School Detroit Zoological 60 Births & Hatchings 9 Conservation Society recognized for sustainability efforts Drought prompts 13 Conservation Grants About the cover Tennessee Aquarium Fund Update Pink-backed Pelican to launch rescue of Conservation through endangered Barrens coexistence in Kenya’s topminnows South Rift Valley 10 Animal Health 14 Green Tales A proactive training Data drives progress and program involving voluntary we need your help ultrasound and x-ray © Sinclair Miller, The Maryland Zoo The © Sinclair Miller,

VISIT US ONLINE Editorial policy: Connect is published by the aza.org Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization dedicated to the LIKE US ON FACEBOOK advancement of zoological parks and aquariums for facebook.com/Association conservation, education, scientific studies and recreation. Issued to members OfZoosAndAquariums as a free service; not available as a subscription. Mailed during the first week of the month. Articles submitted for Connect do not necessarily reflect the FOLLOW US ON TWITTER opinions and policies of AZA. twitter.com/zoos_aquariums Mission: Connect is a forum for promoting AZA’s mission by highlighting zoo E-MAIL THE EDITOR and aquarium trends, industry initiatives, conservation efforts and member [email protected] achievements. Copyright policy: All items appearing in Connect are copyright of AZA. Permission to reprint items must be obtained by contacting AZA’s Publications Department at [email protected]. Advertising policy: Advertising is available. AZA reserves the right to refuse advertising not consistent with its mission. Ad contracts are issued on an annual basis, and ads are accepted on a one, three, six, nine or 12-time basis. Deadline for insertion orders is the first of the month preceding publication. Deadline for artwork is the 10th of the month preceding publication. Rates and mechanical requirements are available upon request.

March 2017 | www.aza.org 3 EDITOR Tim Lewthwaite GRAPHIC DESIGNER Lisa Cadigan, Cadigan Creative ADVERTISING Gina Velosky (301) 562-0777, ext. 254, [email protected] EDITORIAL BOARD Thom Benson | Tennessee Aquarium Julie Larsen-Maher | Wildlife Conservation Society Tim Lewthwaite | Editor The Art of Communication Kristin L. Vehrs | Executive Director Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)-accredited facilities have public relations, marketing, education and communications teams skillfully plying their trade throughout the year—educating a wide range of audiences about the vital role our facilities play in communities, wildlife conservation and animal welfare. President and CEO Whether it is on social media, in the Dan Ashe press, in classrooms, on grounds or in Executive Director print, these professionals must navigate Kristin L. Vehrs General Counsel an ever changing landscape to ensure our Jack Keeney key messages resonate with our diverse Chief Operating Officer audiences. One key to success is to be open Jill Nicoll to innovation and to be aware of what Senior Vice President of Conservation and Science Debborah Luke, PhD might touch people in new ways. Senior Vice President of External Affairs Last year, the Smithsonian National Rob Vernon Zoo participated with the Washed Ashore Senior Vice President of Finance Phil Wagner project to exhibit a series of dramatic, even SAFE Project Manager beautiful, sculptures that were created Jackie Ogden, PhD from trash that has been collected from Vice President of Animal Programs Candice Dorsey, PhD our nation’s shorelines. This powerful Vice President, Conferences and Membership art form delivered a strong message Melissa Howerton about plastic pollution in our oceans and Vice President of Congressional Affairs waterways. Other facilities have used Jennifer Keaton Vice President of Accreditation Programs poetry, music and art to supplement more Denny Lewis traditional methods of communicating Vice President of Federal Relations with our guests and other wider audiences. Steve Olson For a full listing of AZA’s staff, visit www.aza.org/staff Many of these efforts have involved partnerships with other cultural institutions. Collaborations with like-minded organizations can amplify our messages and help us reach AZA BOARD OF DIRECTORS new audiences. Chair AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums are trusted voices on wildlife conservation and Dennis W. Kelly | Director, Smithsonian National Zoological Park animal welfare issues, but we cannot stand pat, the work we are involved in is too important. Chair Elect Communication done well is an art, and art done well is a powerful form of communication. Jim Breheny | Executive Vice President and General Director, Zoos and Aquarium, Wildlife Conservation Society, Jonathan Little Cohen Director of the Bronx Zoo Vice Chair Gregg Hudson | Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dallas Zoo Management, Inc. Past Chair | Dennis Kelly Steve Burns Director, Zoo Boise Directors Director, Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute Jim Anderson | Executive Director, Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo Bob Chastain | President & CEO, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Suzanne M. Gendron | Executive Director Zoological Operations and Education Ocean Park Corporation Chris Gentile | Director, Western North Carolina Nature Center Christopher Kuhar, PhD | Executive Director, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo John Lewis | Zoo Director, Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens Steve Marshall | Zoo Director, El Paso Zoo Adrienne Rowland | Director, Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay Peggy Sloan | Director, North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher

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4 www.aza.org | March 2017 TONGS.com

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Conservation Spotlight Utah’s Boreal Toads: Taking Conservation to the Classroom By Chris Schmitz © Utah’s Hogle Zoo © Utah’s

In Salt Lake City, Utah, Utah’s Hogle Increasing Awareness Zoo’s biggest local conservation program to Protect Toads is monitoring the state’s amphibian Few people in Utah have ever seen these populations, particularly boreal toads toads, or know about their existence until (Anaxyrus boreas). Boreal toad populations they visit them at the Zoo. Toads are often have declined severely in the last two not considered charismatic, particularly decades from habitat disruption, disease and by people who have never seen one. Since climate change. They are currently waiting to Hogle Zoo’s education programming for the health of Utah’s dwindling water be listed under the Endangered Species Act. is strategically aligned with the Zoo’s supply. Additionally, they serve as a direct In addition to field monitoring and conservation programs, the Zoo has made a conduit to encourage participants to protect citizen science programs, Utah’s Hogle Zoo dedicated effort to include ambassador toads wetlands and to participate in the Zoo’s houses 40 toads in partnership with the Utah in all of its programming. This is bringing Amphibians of Utah, FrogWatch USA™, Division of Wildlife Resources in its Center greater attention to this often overlooked and boreal toad surveys. for Boreal Toad Conservation. Located in and underappreciated species. The Zoo has specifically designed a specially-designed off-exhibit breeding The toads provide a link to create two outreach programs to increase facility, these toads may be a part of a future empathy for wildlife and also tell a story toad awareness: a statewide second recovery effort. about their role as an indicator species grade outreach program called Habitat

March 2017 | www.aza.org 7 Investigations, as well as the Wild Aware Utah school and community outreach programs. In 2016, these programs reached 22,995 participants and introduced them to this rare and charismatic mini-fauna. For those participants who are not impressed by their looks, the fact that boreal toads smell like peanut butter has been instrumental in creating amphibian champions. With Habitat Investigations, the aim is to spark students’ natural curiosity and sense of wonder by providing exciting opportunities to practice science skills while gaining a deeper understanding of scientific © Denver Zoo concepts. Focused on the characteristics and Art adaptations of the plants and animals that reside in Utah’s desert and wetland habitats, it provides the opportunity to discuss local conservation issues. On a recent evaluation a Elementary School Students teacher wrote, “We live in a rural area where resources can be limited. It was great that Create, Auction students were able to have this hands-on experience and see live animals that live in Utah. They felt super special to have the Sculptures Inspired Zoo come to their class. They learned a lot about the scientific process and how to help by Denver Zoo Exhibit conservation efforts.” Feedback indicates that very few program participants have Five fifth grade classes from Timber Trails creating drought and other difficulties for ever seen or heard of a boreal toad until a Elementary School, in Castle Rock, Colo., the species which live there. The students Zoo visit. recently created sculptures inspired by and teachers who participated in the The Wild Aware Utah programs reach Denver Zoo’s traveling exhibit “Washed project said their hope is for the artwork to a more diverse audience and the toads Ashore: Art to Save the Sea,” presented by continue to raise awareness about pollution help to promote the idea of coexistence, CH2M, and auctioned them for good causes. and human behavior. specifically allowing the Zoo to highlight The exhibit, which ended its Denver run on Funds raised were donated to The how beavers are essential to Utah’s future: 16 January, featured 15 large-scale sculptures Washed Ashore Project and Stand for maintaining healthy forests, ensuring of sea-life made almost entirely from debris Trees to support their missions. Donations fresh drinking water and providing critical collected on beaches. The auction took place to Washed Ashore go toward creating habitat for boreal toads. Again, very few at the school’s Showcase Night and raised aesthetically powerful art that educates a of the participants have knowledge of this more than $700 to be split between The global audience about plastic pollution in once-common toad prior to participating Washed Ashore Project and the nonprofit oceans and waterways and sparks positive in the programs. Stand for Trees. changes in consumer habits. Stand for With the help of the aromatic and More than 100 students from the school Trees takes action to protect forests and charismatic boreal toads, the Zoo is reaching visited the exhibit last fall to kick-off their earth endangered species, as well as combat thousands of Utahns and is making a science unit and learned how humans and climate change. Students chose to donate to positive difference for Utah’s wildlife. As the pollution impact the environment. Students Stand for Trees after watching videos created education programs and boreal toad field also studied energy sources and how to make by the organization and being inspired by conservation efforts co-evolve, the Zoo will changes that lessen the human footprint. their work. continue to evaluate how best to connect For their final project, the students Developed by the nonprofit group The with and motivate students and adults to used recycled materials to create sculptures Washed Ashore Project, the exhibit is meant take action for conservation across the state. similar to those in the exhibit, but depicting to create awareness about ocean debris and For more information on Wild Aware environments and animals in Colorado plastic pollution though art. Opened in late Utah, visit www.wildawareutah.org. that are affected by human impact. One September 2016, this was the first time the classroom portrayed how climate change exhibit came to Denver, as well as the first Chris Schmitz is the director of education affects mountains, specifically how the time it was be hosted by an inland, non- at Utah’s Hogle Zoo. decreasing length of present snow pack is coastal zoo.

8 www.aza.org | March 2017 Conservation As they sifted through the grubby catch of each seine net haul from the puddle- thin water, however, the team found just a Drought Prompts Tennessee handful of Barrens topminnows. Worse yet, they were disconcerted to discover plentiful Western mosquitofish, a hardy invasive Aquarium to Launch species which preys on Barrens topminnow young. Mosquitofish had not been found in Rescue of Endangered this tributary before. “The presence of Mosquitofish getting in Barrens Topminnows these upstream headwater habitats is pretty disheartening,” said the Tennessee Aquarium’s Assistant Curator of Fishes Matt Hamilton, whose involvement in the Barrens topminnow recovery program dates back to 1999. Once mosquitofish begin to reproduce, he said, the demise of the Barrens topminnows will become an almost foregone conclusion. “It’ll be a numbers game at that point,” he said. “Mosquitofish numbers are going to increase, and the Barrens topminnows are going to decrease. These topminnows are a short-lived species, so it won’t be long until they are gone.” When environmental conditions become bad enough to place an entire species’ survival at risk, conservation scientists sometimes resort to bringing an entire wild population into human care to create an “ark population” to safeguard against the © Tennessee Aquarium © Tennessee possibility of extinction. For the Barrens topminnow, conditions be practically no water here,” Dr. Kuhajda said. Within the Southeast, many such couldn’t get much worse. “I don’t have a lot of hope. This was by far the captive populations and propagation After months with little to no rain, the healthiest population of Barrens topminnows programs soon will be housed at TNACI’s Middle Tennessee stream that serves as a anywhere. This is pretty cataclysmic.” flagship freshwater field station near vital habitat to one of the last remaining Despite its diminutive size and limited downtown Chattanooga. This state-of-the- wild populations of endangered Barrens range, the Barrens topminnow is part of a art facility on the banks of the Tennessee topminnows had all but dried up. The once delicate ecosystem. Ensuring its survival is River opened on 27 October 2017 and sparkling water had been reduced to a series crucial to preserving the natural balance of the already serves as the headquarters for of stagnant pools connected by an anemic entire waterway, said Clay Raines, Tennessee propagation programs for Southern trickle of murky water. Aquarium reintroduction biologist. Appalachian brook trout and lake sturgeon. After monitoring the ecological impact “All we know for sure is that the more After two and a half hours of work of the region’s exceptional drought for species you have, the more stable the and dozens of seine hauls, the field team months, representatives from the Tennessee ecosystem is,” he said. “You lose that chain, recovered just 64 Barrens topminnows, Aquarium Conservation Institute (TNACI) and no one can say, for certain, what those an amount that previously could have and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service visited foundational species are—who’s most been acquired in a single net drag. These this critical stream on a farm north of important and who’s least important—in that individuals were placed in bags of clean, Manchester, Tenn., to determine how bad ecosystem. We have to value all aquatic life oxygenated water and taken to a TNACI conditions were and whether a rescue effort equally and preserve what we can.” facility as part of a new ark population. was warranted. The Middle Tennessee stream system, “Without taking this last-resort action, As he looked out on the drought-ravaged a tributary waterway of Lewis Creek, once this population would be gone forever,” said scene, however, Tennessee Aquarium Aquatic contained hundreds of fish and served as Dr. Kuhajda. “Now there’s hope to keep Biologist Dr. Bernie Kuhajda realized the habitat to a large percentage of the two this genetically distinct population intact situation was even worse than anticipated. remaining wild populations of Barrens with the long-term goal of re-establishing a “I thought it’d be dry. I had no idea there’d topminnows known to exist. healthy population here again.”

8 www.aza.org | March 2017 March 2017 | www.aza.org 9 needed. In Capri Sun’s case, it was crucial to determine the number of infants. Therefore the platform was designed and constructed to hold the plate vertically, behind the lemur, at an ideal abdominal height. A PVC secondary structure was then built to keep the lemur in a lateral position within three inches of the plate and provide three different body postures. Staff also had to keep in mind that nothing could be between the x-ray machine and the lemur that would prevent imaging. This is why there is no PVC in front of the plate on the platform. Previously trained behaviors of “target,” “up” (the lemur standing upward on their hind legs), and “four” (the lemur standing with all four limbs on the floor) were utilized in obtaining an x-ray. The lemurs became comfortable entering and positioning in the platform, while using medical tape as a barrier to keep them close to the plate. The tape was slowly phased out as training progressed. Initially there were five strips, but the x-ray was obtained with just three strips in place. Desensitization then continued with various items and equipment including: x-ray vest, x-ray gloves, a second staff member, the x-ray plate and its holder, and the machine.

© Cameron Park Zoo Park © Cameron From the beginning of this voluntary x-ray training in June, 2015, Capri Sun was Animal Health successfully imaged in only seven short months on 14 December 2015. Capturing this abdominal view would definitely aid in Looking at Lemurs determining the number of infants during pregnancy. Due to the efficient design of the A Proactive Training Program Involving platform, the intended image needed was Voluntary Ultrasound and X-Ray able to be captured with just one film being taken, limiting radiation exposure to the By Emily Ellison and Laura Klutts staff and animal. Voluntary ultrasound and x-ray training Cameron Park Zoo in Waco, Texas, currently speculation of twins, there had to be a better with all of Cameron Park Zoo’s ring- houses 4.3 ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta) way to determine the number of infants. tailed and red ruffed lemurs will continue and 1.1 red ruffed lemurs (Varecia rubra). In order to obtain an x-ray, several to be utilized as an excellent additional In 2014 and 2015, staff were able to confirm challenges had to be overcome. First, diagnostic medical tool. Moving forward three separate pregnancies in the adult twin a platform had to be custom designed with the continuation of a proactive training ring-tailed lemur females, Capri Sun and and constructed with the following program, Cameron Park Zoo will be able Crystal Light, via voluntary ultrasound characteristics: it needed to be portable, to provide top quality care to the lemurs, training. The confirmation was valuable, hold the x-ray plate in place, offer a variety decreasing anesthetizations for procedures as both females were first time mothers in of body positions, and keep the lemur and stress on the animal. 2014. For both of Capri Sun’s pregnancies within three inches of the plate during she was carrying twins, but this was never imaging. Secondly, it was also important to Emily Ellison is a primate keeper at confirmed with the voluntary ultrasound consider the way that the mechanism held Cameron Park Zoo. training, and one twin did not survive from the plate in relation to the animal’s position, Laura Klutts is a primate keeper at each pregnancy. Even though there was some optimizing the production of the best x-ray Cameron Park Zoo.

10 www.aza.org | February 2017 Reintroduction ABQ BioPark Released 54,000 Rio Grande Silvery Minnows in 2016

The ABQ BioPark’s Aquatic Conservation minnow, a 2- to 4-inch long fish, was once Facility in Albuquerque, N.M., released one of the most common species in the 54,000 endangered Rio Grande silvery Rio Grande, but by 1994 its population had minnows into the Rio Grande last year. declined so greatly that it was added to the The fish were released at sites within federal Endangered Species List. their current range (Middle Rio Grande) Since it opened in 2003, the Aquatic where there are low concentrations of silvery Conservation Facility has released more minnows in the river. than 700,000 minnows (including this year’s “The good news is that there are many release). The growing operation is staffed by areas of the Middle Rio Grande that do three full-time employees and three seasonal not need supplementation this year,” said workers and receives supplemental funding Kathy Lang, curator of the ABQ BioPark’s from grants. Aquatic Conservation Facility. “The water The BioPark has been part of the species management strategy used in that section of recovery program since 2000. Each spring, the river during this year’s spawning season staff members collect eggs from the Rio seems to have been successful.” Grande to hatch in tanks at the BioPark and Staff released 10,000 fish on 25 October breed additional minnows from previously at the Pueblo of Santa Ana. The next release collected broodstock. Minnows are tagged of 31,000 minnows was near Bosque del each fall before their release so the Fish and Apache, and another release of 13,000 Wildlife Service (FWS) can monitor the minnows occurred later in the year. program’s success. Tagging also allows FWS The Aquatic Conservation Facility is one to monitor some aspects of the minnow’s of three in New Mexico that are cooperating behavior and how long the fish are surviving to raise the endangered fish. The silvery in different parts of the river.

March 2017 | www.aza.org 11 It is also a preferred prey item for invasive lionfish in its native habitat. With its tenuous conservation status, ease of culture, and its demand and value, the royal gramma holds promise as a profitable aquaculture candidate. The program features a joint internship co- supervised by Mystic Aquarium and MSMHS with a dedicated laboratory at MSMHS. “While this project is intended to develop easily adoptable methods to accelerate the royal gramma’s presence in commercial culture in order to preserve wild royal grammas in their native habitats, we are also helping to cultivate the next generation of marine aquaculturists for the marine aquarium trade,” said Dr. Paul Anderson, research scientist and program coordinator at Mystic Aquarium. “I am incredibly proud to be able to have the Grant opportunity to inspire and train the students of the Marine Science Magnet High School.” The lab has accomplished and routinely maintains the successful aquaculture of Mystic Aquarium Receives phytoplankton, zooplankton and clownfish. The goal of this study is to publish and Grant for Collaboration distribute an efficient and cost-effective protocol that can be implemented by commercial aquaculturists, benefitting with Marine Science the conservation of the species, as well as entrepreneurs engaging in aquaculture. Magnet High School “Whenever schools and industry partner together, kids win,” said MSMHS Principal, Recently, Mystic Aquarium in Mystic, ecosystems may go unchecked. Public Dr. Nicholas Spera. “Our collaboration with Conn., received a grant in the amount aquaria serve a vital role in re-connecting Mystic Aquarium and their incredible staff of $25,000 from the Sea World & Busch youth and families to the ocean has allowed us the opportunity to embed Gardens Conservation Fund and Rising Tide environment. The marine aquarium hobby ongoing research within our curriculum. This Conservation in support of their ongoing can also serve this role in the home. A child unique opportunity builds valuable research research and development of marine who learns compassion for the fish under skills in our students that ultimately gives ornamental aquaculture with the Marine her care is more likely to grow up to be a them a distinct advantage when they continue Science Magnet High School (MSMHS) conscientious adult who is more aware of their studies at the postsecondary level.” in Groton, Conn. The program is also her actions and how they affect the world “I feel so lucky to be involved in this supported by Connecticut Sea Grant. around her. Mystic Aquarium is dedicated partnership that empowers students to “This is another example of how Mystic to helping the marine aquarium industry think critically in order to solve these real Aquarium and our dedicated and diverse accomplish this educational goal sustainably world issues associated with our marine staff are having a global impact with a and responsibly. environment,” said MSMHS Aquaculture program that exemplifies the core aspects The goal of the program is to research Teacher, Eric Litvinoff. “This collaboration of our mission to inspire people through and develop methods for aquaculture of offers MSMHS students the opportunity conservation, education and research,” the royal gramma (Gramma loreto) for the to work with industry professionals, while said Mystic Aquarium President and Chief industry. The fish represents a valuable equipping them with technical training Executive Officer Dr. Stephen M. Coan. species to connect the public with the in marine ornamental aquaculture. It is widely understood that coral reefs world’s oceans. This small planktivore lives Aquaculture is the future and with this are declining due to human activity like on shallow reefs in the tropical western partnership, we can envision an influx climate change, pollution and overfishing. Atlantic. Its populations in this region are of talented and skilled workers who will As societies grow more disconnected highly fragmented and vulnerable to local contribute to the growth and sustainability from nature, human impacts on natural environmental pollution and overfishing. of the marine aquarium industry.”

12 www.aza.org | March 2017 © Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden Zoo © Cincinnati

Conservation Grants Fund Update Lale’enok: Conservation Through Coexistence in Kenya’s South Rift Valley By Shasta Bray and David Jenike

In the South Rift Valley of Kenya, the lion Over the past eight years, the Cincinnati the quintessential zoo skill—with 14 RAs population has grown to more than 65 Zoo & Botanical Garden (CZBG) in through a three-day Community Educators from a low of 10, while elsewhere across the Cincinnati, Ohio, has supported the Workshop. Following training on effectively continent, lions are in severe decline. The growth of SORALO’s innovative programs, delivering messages to various audiences, difference is testament to a human-wildlife resulting in an enthusiastic and credible the RAs then applied their new skills coexistence approach taken by the Maasai team of RAs skilled at gathering ecological to developing and practicing their own South Rift Association of Landowners data. However, conveying complex science educational presentations. (SORALO) at the Lale’enok Resource Centre. in meaningful and engaging ways to the We are proud of the support that we, At the heart of the program is a Resource community remained a challenge. In 2016, as a Zoo, are able to provide to enhance Assessor (RA) team of Maasai youth funding from the Association of Zoos and SORALO’s efforts to promote coexistence that collects and disseminates ecological Aquariums (AZA) Conservation Grants between people and lions. information to the community to inform Fund and Disney Conservation Fund land use planning and mitigate human- enabled us to address the need for more Shasta R. Bray is the manager of wildlife conflict. For example, the Rebuilding effective communication skills, in addition interpretive exhibits, visitor research, the Pride team of RAs monitors lion activity to allowing the program to expand on what conservation communications and fun at daily. Sharing the information with herders it already does well. the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. enables them to make informed decisions In June 2016, Shasta Bray and David David Jenike is the vice president and on where to graze livestock with minimal Jenike, veterans in education at CZBG, chief operating officer at the Cincinnati chance of conflict with lions. shared their expertise in communication— Zoo & Botanical Garden.

March 2017 | www.aza.org 13 Did You See? Green Tales

Not everybody anemoneeds Data Drives Progress somebody. For Singles Awareness Day, our aggregating and We Need Your Help! By Wanda Evans anemones are perfectly fine hanging out by themselves— 2017 marks the third year of collecting related facilities to report metrics for Green Practices data from Association of natural resource utilization associated with literally. Through repeated Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)-accredited their business operations. This formalized cloning they create a carpet of institutions. We are building a database reporting tool is called the Green Business of our collective impacts so that we can Practices Survey, and was designed to companion copies, collectively better understand where most effective record annual updates about the same green practices can be implemented to reduce our practices used for reviewing submissions focused on their career without collective footprint. We need your help to for AZA’s annual Green Award and detailed distracting compromise. get good response rates. As in many other in AZA’s Green Guides (www.aza.org/ areas within AZA, data drives progress and sustainable-practices/). Data from this -Monterey Bay Aquarium Facebook Page we cannot change what we do not measure. survey is published in AZA’s Annual Report In 2014, AZA, with support from the on Conservation and Science and is used Green Scientific Advisory Group (GSAG), extensively by the AZA office in an array developed a new framework for AZA- of publications, print and social media, accredited and certified and in meetings with agencies and partner organizations. Data can also be utilized by

5 cents?! That’s a steal! The Southern white rhinos were quite smitten with their Valentine’s Day enrichment! Enrichments like these help encourage naturalistic behavior and stimulate them throughout the day. #tlpz

- Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo Facebook Page

14 www.aza.org | March 2017 By the Numbers AZA members for their own presentations, publications and benchmarking. Responses for the 2016 Green Business Practices Survey are being requested by 31 March 2017. In many cases, the contact CLIMATE CHANGE person is a facility’s executive director/ president/chief executive officer, unless someone else has been identified, such as AND IN 2015 a facilities or sustainability manager. The GOING survey is accessible year-round by logging into the AZA website and clicking on the Green Practices link in the left-hand menu, Association of Zoos and however; only the designated contact person Aquariums (AZA)-accredited is able to update the survey and will see the facilities reported their green facility’s complete green business profile. business practices in 2015 Reference the ARCS User Manual for detailed information about inputting data: (www.aza.org/assets/2332/ Nearly square feet of green-certified myazagreenpractices-usermanual.pdf ). space was reported by Frequently Asked Questions document available online: (www.aza.org/assets/2332/ facilities greenbusinesspracticessurvey_faq.pdf). For assistance in completing the survey, facilities generated The most commonly or to assign a different staff member as paired action across your facility’s Green Practices contact, or purchased please contact Arslan Ahmad, (aahmad@ more than conservation aza.org), or Shelly Grow, director of 45 million kWh education conservation programs ([email protected]). of renewable programs about climate The Green SAG will continue to support change was to energy AZA-accredited facilities in developing “conserve energy/reduce sustainability plans for their organizations carbon footprint” and sharing results from these surveys on an annual basis. facilities reported spending Learn more about how the collective 11 group of AZA-accredited facilities $260,000 on research or performed in 2015 by checking out some conservation9 projects of the survey results found in the Annual Report on Conservation and Science focused on assessing a and download recent publications. A species’ vulnerability, user manual is also available to assist or a specific habitat or with survey completion: www.aza.org/ ecosystem’s ecological assets/2332/arcs_2015.pdf. Please save the date for the 7th Annual response, to climate change Green Summit at the AZA Mid-Year Conference on Monday, 27 March and Tuesday, 28 March. We have panels ranging across Green Practices including: Attend the 7th Annual Green Summit, hosted by the Measuring What You Manage, Power of People, Money Talks, and Bringing it All AZA Green Scientific Advisory Group (GSAG), at AZA’s Together (Case Studies of Projects). Mid-Year Meeting on 27-28 March to learn where and how to make your operations more sustainable, fund Wanda Evans is the sustainability projects, and keep your staff and community engaged coordinator at the St. Louis Zoo and chair of the AZA Green Scientific in the process. Advisory Group.

14 www.aza.org | March 2017 March 2017 | www.aza.org 15 Research assessed various risk factors, including ranging species higher pacing behavior is ranging behavior, territoriality, natural not necessarily driven by the need for active Factors Related foraging behaviors, cranial volume (as a locomotion, but may rather be determined to Stereotypic Behavior surrogate measure for intelligence) and by the need for novelty, control or multiple in Carnivore Species International Union for Conservation of denning sites. Thus pacing may be alleviated Nature (IUCN) Red List™ status, that might by addressing these needs rather than just There is considerable variation in the help predict the occurrence of pacing increasing exhibit size or opportunities for occurrence of stereotypic behavior amongst behavior and infant mortality in 23 species active locomotion alone. Future investigations Carnivora in managed care. This study of carnivore. The study suggests that in wide- into the use of more denning sites, greater control and how increased novelty can reduce pacing in wide-ranging carnivores are needed to further address this welfare concern.

Kroshko, J, Clubb, R, Harper, L, Mellor, E, Moehrenschlager, A & Mason, G (2016) Stereotypic route tracing in captive Carnivora is predicted by species- typical home range sizes and hunting styles. Animal Behaviour, 117, 197-209. Correspondence to Georgia Mason [email protected].

Assessing Stress in Reptiles Little research has been done on stress in reptiles or on how to address stress in reptiles in managed care. This study assessed four main responses to stress in reptiles: behavioral changes, changes in nervous system function, neuroendocrine response and immune response. Potential measures that can be used in reptiles to Exercise and Feeding Related assess behavioral responses are aggression, to Body Condition Scores in Zoo Elephants anorexia, stereotypies and displacement behavior. In addition, variation in the Recent findings from the large-scale quantity and quality of food provided deposition of carotenes has been reported collaborative study, Using Science to and body condition score remains to to impact skin color in some lizards during Understand Zoo Elephant Welfare, be evaluated. Other work suggest that stress. To assess changes to the nervous, that address several aspects of elephant high body condition score may be endocrine and immune system, blood welfare including walking, recumbence associated with less regular cycling in samples can be used to examine serum and stereotypic behavior, have been female elephants, though other impacts catecholamine levels, glucocorticoids, published as a collection in PlosOne. This of high body condition score remain to antibodies, blood glucose level and heart rate particular paper assessed management be studied. and blood pressure can also be examined. factors associated with body condition However, the reliability of these measures as scores in elephants. Tryiglyceride Morfeld, K.A., Meehan, C.L., indicators of stress has not been well-studied concentrations were used to validate Hogan, J.N. & Brown, J.L. (2016) and thus may not be as useful for assessment body condition scored and varied Assessment of Body Condition in of welfare for reptiles in managed care. For between scores of 1, 2-3, 4 and 5. Staff- African (Loxodonta africana) and instance, corticosterone levels naturally vary directed walking exercise of 14 hours or Asian (Elephas maximus) Elephants between males and females in some reptile more and highly unpredictable feeding in North American Zoos and species but not others. Given that restraint schedules were associated with lower Management Practices Associated during blood draws may in and of itself body condition score. Greater feeding with High Body Condition Scores. elevate stress, skin and fecal samples may be diversity was associated with higher Plos One, 11 (7): e0155146. a more useful measure of stress. Fluctuations body condition score, but the impact on doi:10.1371/. in lipids and issues with both obesity and emaciation have been found to better

16 www.aza.org | March 2017 measure stress in reptiles. Reptiles are likely to encounter the same stressors as other animals in managed care and further assessment and study of stress in reptiles is merited.

Martínez Silvestre, A. (2014) How to Assess Stress in Reptiles. Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine, 23, 240 243. Correspondence to Albert Martínez Silvestre [email protected]. Applying the Elaboration Likelihood Model to Animal Talks The mission of many zoos is to facilitate sustainable behaviors in visitors and teach Zoo © Detroit them about conservation, but effectiveness in these goals is rarely measured. Authors trained staff in use of the Elaboration Likelihood Model to attempt to improve effectiveness in persuasive communication of animal talks. This model should improve satisfaction and retention, make messages more relevant to visitors, and encourage guests to think about information presented, which should in turn increase potential for behavioral Green change. Authors then tested effectiveness of animal talks after training in this model of communication. Authors found that even after training about 30 percent of staff still did not Detroit Zoological integrate the discussed conservation message. However, for those talks that did integrate Society Recognized the conservation message, visitor recall of the message, satisfaction, and elaboration about the message improved after staff training. for Sustainability Efforts Study suggests that training staff to ensure that animal talks focused on a specific theme, The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) in stream annually—and building the first and are made relevant to visitors, improved Royal Oak, Mich., has been named one zoo-based anaerobic digester in the their satisfaction and the chances that visitors of Michigan’s and the nation’s 2016 Best country, which will annually convert comprehend and retain messages delivered and Brightest Sustainable Companies. more than 400 tons of animal manure and thus have greater potential for behavior The awards are presented each year by the into methane-rich gas to help power change. Authors suggest that zoos will need National Association for Business Resources the Detroit Zoo’s animal hospital. to be more progressive in their conservation to companies and organizations that exhibit Additionally, the DZS has joined advocacy role if they hope to encourage leadership and innovation in their green and the growing list of companies and environmentally sustainable behaviors and sustainability approach. organizations taking action to reduce the not just communicate general environmental “Our goal is to inspire others to join us on impact of their energy use by powering principles or influence attitudes. our green journey as we continuously look for Zoo operations with 100 percent ways to reduce our ecological footprint,” said renewable energy from wind farms. MacDonald, E., Milfont, T. & Gavin, M. (2016) DZS Executive Director and Chief Executive These sustainability initiatives are Applying the Elaboration Likelihood Model Officer Ron Kagan. part of the DZS Greenprint—a strategic to increase recall of conservation messages Recent DZS sustainability efforts plan to refine and improve daily practices and elaboration by zoo visitors. Journal include discontinuing the sale of bottled and facilities, develop new policies and of Sustainable Tourism, 24, 866-881. DOI: water on Detroit Zoo grounds—keeping programs, and improve green literacy and 10.1080/09669582.2015.1091464. 60,000 plastic bottles out of the waste action in the community.

16 www.aza.org | March 2017 March 2017 | www.aza.org 17 18 www.aza.org | March 2017 Ajax the Amur Leopard — Santa Barbara Zoo, Santa Barbara, California For zoos big and small

Drake the Bearded Dragon — Riley’s House, Rockford, Illinios

Whether a zoo of 3,000 animals or a household of one, Mazuri® knows nutrition. Learn how we are advancing the science of animal nutrition. WWW.MAZURI.COM | www.mazuri.com facebook.com/mazuri March 2017 | www.aza.org 19 PartingPLASTICS from © Stephanie Adams, Houston Zoo REDUCING Disposable plastics are everywhere and can have DISPOSABLE devastating impacts on wildlife. Since mass production started in 1950, plastics have permeated our world PLASTIC IN OUR at a frenetic pace with roughly 300 million tons OPERATIONS manufactured worldwide in 2013. It is estimated that between 10 and 20 million tons of plastic debris end up in BY WANDA EVANS the oceans each year. Roughly 80 percent of that comes from land sources. Although it seems daunting, there are steps that can be taken to reduce our plastic footprint. Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)-accredited facilities have a unique opportunity to lead by example. The opportunity lies in doing what is right by our conservation missions, educating visitors and initiating change along our facilities’ supply chains.

20 www.aza.org | March 2017 Vancouver Aquarium was working with just one supplier. No plastic created some great messaging. So, when filling Puts Research into Action bags are offered in gift shops, and a gallery out a survey about their day at the zoo and In Canada, at Vancouver Aquarium in shows jellyfish made out of plastic bags— where they learned about conservation—they © Stephanie Adams, Houston Zoo Vancouver, B.C., reducing the amount of the goal being to educate visitors about the learned in the retail shop, so that’s great for plastic is driven by putting research into dangers of plastic to wildlife. us,” said Lowell. practice. The Zoo’s Ocean Pollution Research Reducing plastics in the Aquarium’s Toys are the second biggest item in their Parting from Lab studies ways that aquatic species are operations is a tangible and effective way to portfolio, so SSA investigated how they could affected by plastic that end up in oceans. put research into action. “It’s important for change the ways toys are packaged. They now “We know plastics are persistent, we people to feel like they are accountable and have prototypes on the floor which reduce know they end up in oceans, we know they responsible and can do something to lead a plastic packaging. By making changes to have a really horrible impact on aquatic change, even if it is as simple as not using a packaging for SSA retail shops, it will impact species. So, we are doing everything possible plastic bag,” said Scoon. how suppliers are selling their products to eliminate them from our organization to elsewhere. “This change is expected to be cost make sure we are not part of the problem,” Working with Service Partners neutral. In the long run, the cost would go down said Alexis Esseltine Scoon, sustainability to Achieve Green Goals because there’s a savings in weight and material. manager at the Aquarium. Service Systems Associates (SSA) is a retail and In the short-run, you are rocking a boat that’s Vancouver Aquarium also leads the food service business vendor serving cultural been in place forever, so there’s some increase in Great Canadian Shore Clean-up Program—a institutions. With 56 AZA clients, they have manufacturing costs, but that is negligible.” national shoreline clean-up initiative. From a big impact on greening business operations Eliminating bottled water is a more materials collected, Aquarium staff can within the community. SSA works closely with challenging issue. When SSA helped Detroit quantify the most problematic disposable their clients’ institutional Green Teams while Zoo in Royal Oak, Mich., ditch the bottle in items that end up in the environment and also formulating their own company-wide then build the case for eliminating those Green Team. The SSA Green Team tracks and products in the Aquarium’s operations. shares best green initiative practices. Plastic reduction has been tackled in “When we look at initiatives, we are food service, retail and marine mammal feed. always a bit nervous. We were trying to get Food service operations have eliminated better at service; now, are we going to give all petroleum-based plastics by using clients worse service? But, we started hearing compostable service ware, and plastic straws the stories about eliminating plastic bags and and lids have been eliminated. The marine we picked one of our clients, Houston Zoo to mammal feed department has moved to work on this,” said Eric Loyall, chief operating eliminate plastic by purchasing bulk food officer for SSA. In 2015, they did, and sales of packaged strap-free. reusable bags (totes) tripled. They also started Vancouver Aquarium has leveraged getting some good PR. In 2016, SSA expanded its credibility as a research organization the program and now has this program in half to educate and change their supply chain. of their accounts across the country, and likely Retail staff worked with vendors to remove by the end of 2017, it will be in all. the plastic pellet pouches which are used to “We realized that guests didn’t get angry. keep stuffed animals soft. They also worked For the occasional person that is upset, we can to reduce packaging, resulting in the use of hold the package for them or convince them

100,000 fewer polybags annually—and this to buy a tote, but what’s even better is that we Zoo © Detroit

March 2017 | www.aza.org 21 © Stephanie Adams, Houston Zoo Adams, © Stephanie

2015, water revenues did go down, with half as Green Team filled 4,500 reusable bottles over dishwasher in food service to reduce plastic. many units sold, but Lowell pointed out that the course of 2.5 hours with 10 to 20 volunteers The change is expected to return a savings in one year is not enough for a full study. “As a at a time. Though challenging logistically, it was operational costs. company we are game to experiment and learn. successful and inspiring. Initiatives where revenues are affected—or Sometimes you just have to take a leap.” “Participants enjoyed the message and they there are costs associated—require special also really enjoyed the souvenir. The success of innovation and effort. There are, however, Detroit Zoo Runs with Their it inspired and reinvigorated our Green Team unquantifiable benefits to aligning mission Commitment to Plastic Reduction and staff,” said Rachel Handbury, manager of with business operations. Oakland County Reduction of plastic is top priority for Detroit sustainability at the Zoo. Parks in Detroit has reached out to the Zoo Zoo because of their proximity to the Great Although revenue from water sales to learn about eliminating bottled water Lakes, including Lake Michigan. Removing dropped, the commitment is strong throughout because they are interested in doing the same single use bottled water and eliminating plastic the organization. “For the most part, the throughout their parks. “We are serving as an bags in gift shops were powerful steps. response has been overwhelmingly positive,” example in the region and that is exactly what After ditching disposable bottled water said Handbury. we hoped to do,” said Handbury. in 2015, Detroit Zoo had their first Run Wild Plastic bags were eliminated in retail Handbury’s advice to others is “Rip the Race, a fundraising event for the Zoo that and signage shows turtles confusing plastic band aid off. Make the decision and go for it. banished single-use bottled waters in 2016. The bags for jelly fish. In 2017, SSA will install a The public is a lot more receptive than we give

22 www.aza.org | March 2017 © Vancouver Aquarium

At Vancouver Aquarium, a gallery shows jellyfish made out of plastic bags. The goal is to educate visitors about the dangers of plastic to wildlife.

them credit for. It is the only way we will get Working with SSA in 2015, Houston anywhere in sustainability, and it serves as an Zoo removed plastic bags from gift shops. example in the community.” Customers can either carry out their items or their operations. They are installing fifteen they can purchase reusable bags. Not only have water refill stations as well. Houston Zoo Makes they eliminated approximately 80,000 plastic The Houston sea lion department Taking Action Easy for Visitors bags from their operations since starting the organizes shoreline clean-ups on a jetty, In Houston, Texas, one of Houston Zoo’s six initiative, they have tripled sales of reusable totes picking up fishing line, trash and recycling “Take Action” initiatives that started in 2015 and achieved savings from not buying plastic from natural areas. was plastic reduction. All actions are based bags. A retailer of this size might spend roughly “It is a process. You have to make sure that around simple steps that guests can take to $6,000 for plastic bags annually. Instead of guests understand why we are making these reduce their effect on wildlife. Being so close spending that, they brought in almost $80,000 changes, and it really helps to tie efforts back to to the Gulf of Mexico, Houston Zoo is witness dollars of revenue from sales of reusable totes. animals,” said Mary Kate Kunzinger, sustainability to the impact of plastic on wildlife, and as a In 2017, the Zoo will replace bottled water conservation coordinator at the Zoo. partner with NOAA on sea turtle rescue, they with boxed water. This alternative still contains regularly treat stranded or injured sea turtles some plastic, but the containers are recyclable Wanda Evans is the sustainability from plastic pollution. in Houston and will reduce overall plastic in coordinator at the Saint Louis Zoo.

22 www.aza.org | March 2017 March 2017 | www.aza.org 23 GreenPURCHA$ING INVE$TING & BY TOM PRICE

24 www.aza.org www.aza.org | |March March 2017 2017 PURCHA$ING INVE$TING BY TOM PRICE

24 www.aza.org www.aza.org | |March March 2017 2017 March 2017 | www.aza.org 25 Some facilities tie reduced purchasing of carbon- producing electricity to concerns about global warming and the acidification of oceans. Others are making packaging changes to reduce their contributions to landfills and to address the dangers to wildlife that are posed by improperly discarded plastic. Many are reducing their negative impact on the environment by changing what they sell in gift shops, what they feed their animals and their visitors, how they power their vehicles, and what they use to clean their facilities, and how far their purchases have to be shipped. t the Monterey Bay Aquarium in Monterey, Plastic—including a range of items from large pieces to Calif., a growing proportion of gift-shop tiny fragments—is now found throughout the oceans and products and packaging is made nearby inland freshwater systems. To prevent plastics from entering from recycled and other eco-friendly the environment, many facilities are decreasing their use materials, while the Aquarium’s of plastic. The Seattle Aquarium is among those that have restaurants serve sustainable foods stopped giving out single-use plastic bags and begun selling with environmentally friendly reusable bags. The Aquarium has begun to phase out single- cutlery, dishes, cups and straws. use plastic water bottles and to install stations where visitors The Seattle Aquarium in can fill their own reusable bottles for free. The Detroit Zoo in Seattle, Wash., is investing in Royal Oak, Mich., has halted the sale of plastic water bottles clean energy by supporting and sells reusable bottles that can be filled at 20 stations. an array of roof-top solar panels that feed electricity into In addition to offering only paper bags and recycled a building where their purchase of a $1.1-million energy plastic totes, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is taking plastic upgrade makes lighting, pumps, motors, heating and out of packaging for products sold in its gift shop, said cooling more efficient. The goal is to cut the facility’s Andrew Fischer, general manager of merchandising at the contribution to global warming by reducing use of energy Aquarium and conservation director for Service Systems generated by oil and natural gas, according to Mark Associates (SSA), which operates concessions at 56 AZA Plunkett, the Aquarium’s conservation manager. clients. SSA’s goal for 2018 is plastic-free packaging for And the International Union for Conservation of approximately 30 Wild Republic toys, which are sold in most Nature’s (IUCN) Conservation Breeding Specialist Group, of its gift shops, as well as elimination of single-use plastic headquartered near Minneapolis, Minn., is shifting its bags. SSA also sells toys made from recycled materials by reserve fund’s investments into greener corporations with California-based Green Toys, Inc. the intention of being 100-percent divested from major Food purchases for people, animals and when visitors carbon producers by the end of this year. leave AZA facilities are another area that can be aligned with These actions are parts of a movement by Association of an organization’s conservation mission. Through its Seafood Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)-accredited facilities and their Watch program, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a global partners to align their purchasing and investing practices leader in promoting consumption of sustainable seafood. more closely with their mission of conservation. A growing number of SSA culinary locations are following Communities that support environmental protection Seafood Watch guidelines, Fischer said. can expedite the greening of zoos and aquariums. “Seattle The Woodland Park Zoo is shifting to animal feed that is a very receptive community” for conservation measures, is friendlier to the environment. The Zoo had been using said Suzanne Frounfelter, manager of purchasing and hay with an additive that was safe for animals to eat but that distribution at Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle, Wash. couldn’t be composted, Frounfelter said.

26 www.aza.org | March 2017 © Detroit Zoo © Detroit

How facilities accept deliveries is yet another way to Volunteers at the Detroit Zoo hand out reusable water bottles after reduce fossil-fuel use and green their procurement process. a run. The Zoo has halted the sale of plastic water bottles and sells The Monterey Bay Aquarium is among those that seek reusable bottles that can be filled at 20 stations. products that don’t have to be shipped long distance. The Aquarium prefers products that are made in the United States, especially in California, Fischer said. In addition to seeking products that are manufactured in Colorado or neighboring states, Denver Zoo in Denver, Colo., is working with farmers to increase its consumption of locally grown foods, said Jennifer Hale, director of safety and sustainability. The Zoo changed the delivery of uniforms—which previously shipped in cardboard boxes,

26 www.aza.org | March 2017 March 2017 | www.aza.org 27 We are looking at green practices as an investment in the conservation mission that we all share, but also as an investment that makes financial sense over the long run ... We feel conservation investments can reduce our operating costs over time.

Conversations that explain environmental benefits are important to overcoming employee resistance to change, Hale said. “We’re here because we’re passionate. Once you have that conversation, they understand and you have them as engaged partners,” she said. That’s true throughout a facility, Plunkett said. “There’s not going to be any action taken without first engaging with the leadership and the line people who are working this stuff every day.” © Monterey Bay Aquarium Bay © Monterey In addition to explaining the environmental payoffs to In addition to offering only paper bags and recycled plastic staff, he points out economic benefits to top executive and totes, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is taking plastic out of board members. “We are looking at green practices as an packaging for products sold in its gift shop, investment in the conservation mission that we all share, but also as an investment that makes financial sense over the each uniform in a separate plastic bag—to returnable long run,” Plunkett said. “We feel conservation investments bags. The Zoo also asks shippers to consolidate orders so can reduce our operating costs over time.” deliveries are made no more than once a week. Similarly, The Aquarium’s board contains “very bright business the Woodland Park Zoo has consolidated shipping from the leaders who ask the appropriate tough questions,” he said. Zoo, so packages from all departments are picked up in one “When it is clear that this is a win-win for both our financial lot, Frounfelter said. assets and meeting the mission for inspiring conservation, Relatedly, some AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums are they are fully on board.” moving to consolidate purchasing as a means of shifting to It can be tricky to find green products that do an greener products and saving money. adequate job at a reasonable cost, but supplies are increasing. Denver Zoo created a software-based catalogue of Fischer hopes that suppliers will see opportunity in growing preferred products that purchasing agents can consult demand for green products and will make more products before placing orders, Hale said. The catalogue focused first available. Frounfelter said that’s already happening because on products made from recycled or recyclable materials. “vendors always want to do what they can to get their foot in Chemicals—such as fertilizers and pesticides—will be added the door.” this year, she said. Plunkett recalled a vendor who pitched a dispenser that Frounfelter said staff who have always ordered the would cause patrons to take just one paper towel. “Indeed, same product may not know greener options exist. Buying it works,” he said. “I’m sure we’re buying less paper than we commonly used products in bulk—rather than department u s e d t o.” by department—can result in lower costs, she said. When Denver Zoo expressed desire for uniforms made Purchasing in bulk can also decrease packaging and the of more-sustainable fabric, a vendor produced some that are number of deliveries required. now being tried “to see how they hold up,” Hale said.

28 www.aza.org | March 2017 Denver Zoo is working with farmers to increase its consumption of locally grown foods, While an increasing number of zoos and aquariums are acting to reduce their own negative impacts on the environment, only “the tiniest fraction” are taking their She learned that the Global Conservation Network, which investments out of companies that emit large amounts of funds the breeding group, was supporting several of the top carbon, said Onnie Byers, chair of the IUCN’s Conservation 200 carbon producers through the $300,000 the organization Breeding Specialist Group, which has promoted divestment had invested in mutual funds. With HIP Investors’ advice, the since 2012. group switched to a new mix of mutual funds. “Our membership was saying we need to do Her financial board and representatives of zoos and more, make our voices heard, take a stand,” said Byers, aquariums “asked the exact same questions,” she said. “The whose organization advises zoos, aquariums and other first was always: ‘We have a fiduciary responsibility. How organizations about species conservation. “It was more than can we commit our money to funds that are not necessarily recycle and turn off your lights.” going to give us the best return?’” Byers discovered 350.org, an activist group that Her response is that the value of the organization’s advocates combatting the worst consequences of climate investments has not declined and that “there are new funds change by lowering atmospheric carbon to 350 parts per opening up all the time, making it easier and easier for million, down from the current 400. That organization put people to make this commitment.” her in touch with HIP Investor, which evaluates investments’ social and economic impact. Tom Price is a writer based in Washington, D.C.

28 www.aza.org | March 2017 March 2017 | www.aza.org 29

Sustainability Sparks Engagement, Creativityand Action

BY EMILY BRYANT What do team building, cost savings and urban gardening have in common?

They are all outcomes of sustainability programs and initiatives at Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)- accredited facilities that have successfully engaged staff, interns and volunteers.

32 www.aza.org | March 2017 seedlings grown for ten years. This accomplishment was made possible through the Zoo’s Ultimate Alternate Transportation Challenge (UATC), an annual summer contest begun in 2004 to encourage staff and interns to commute using environmentally sustainability challenges, such as the UATC, advantageous modes of transportation. directly with our guests. It is a success story The challenge also raises awareness about that really resonates with our audience. the impact and availability of various forms of We have found that reaching our guests by ccording to Cone transit. Staff and interns have the opportunity celebrating the actions our community is Communications’ 2016 to earn points daily by carpooling, driving a taking has tremendous impact,” said Rebekah Employee hybrid car, using public transit, walking, or Egbert, visitor experience manager at the Engagement taking a scooter to and from work, as well as Zoo. Utah’s Hogle Zoo continues to look Study, 75 percent eating lunch on-site. “It’s a really great team for opportunities to increase engagement in of employees in building opportunity and staff feel good the UATC. The Zoo is currently exploring the United States, about working for an organization openly designs to expand the contest to include the and 89 percent of supporting sustainability. The challenge has public and to empower them to take action U.S. employees ages 27 to 35, believe it definitely increased pride in the institution as alongside interns and staff. is important for their employer to share a whole,” said Michelle Brown, environmental goals, progress, and achievements on coordinator at the Zoo. Philadelphia Zoo social or environmental commitments. Information about the Zoo’s sustainability At Philadelphia Zoo in Philadelphia, Pa., staff The same study found that 78 percent of initiatives, including the UATC, is shared engagement has created ripple effects. During U.S. employees want to actively participate as part of orientation to encourage monthly all-staff meetings, employees are in helping their company improve its participation. Staff and intern engagement given progress updates on sustainability goals responsible business practices by providing in the UATC has grown significantly, from and encouraged to share ideas on how to feedback, ideas and potential solutions. In 14 individuals taking part in the inaugural improve the Zoo’s sustainability performance. response to employees’ growing desire to be challenge in 2004, to 130 staff and interns To help increase Philadelphia Zoo’s informed and empowered, AZA-accredited taking part in 2016. Utah’s Hogle Zoo keeps waste diversion rate beyond 49 percent, one facilities are introducing and supporting staff and interns learning and engaged employee suggested adding a compost bin a variety of sustainability projects to drive throughout the challenge with events, in the staff area of McNeil Avian Center, mission impact through engagement. which have included film screenings, a building that features walk-through group walks and lunches, and alternative habitats where visitors can discover over Utah’s Hogle Zoo transit demonstrations. Each year, the 100 spectacular birds from around the At Utah’s Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake City, challenge concludes with a party to celebrate world. The addition of the compost bin has Utah, in 2016, the combined efforts of accomplishments, where staff and interns can enabled keeper staff to collect and divert full-time, part-time, and seasonal staff receive awards in several different categories approximately five gallons of fruit and and interns to use alternative transit for for their participation. vegetable byproducts from diet preparation five weeks saved 21,632 commuting miles Equipped with knowledge of local each week. “It makes me feel good that we are by car and prevented nine tons of carbon resources and the ability to speak from walking the talk. We are happy to help,” said dioxide from entering the atmosphere. personal experience, staff have become Toni Flowers, lead keeper for McNeil Avian According to the Environmental Protection advocates for alternative transit. “Our Center. Another compost bin was added at Agency Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies staff shares their participation in the Zoo an administrative building one week later Calculator, that is in response to the equivalent to the positive result. amount of carbon Staff has “...78 percent of U.S. employees want to actively participate in dioxide sequestered been particularly helping their company improve its responsible business practices by by 231 tree active in energy providing feedback, ideas and potential solutions.”

32 www.aza.org | March 2017 March 2017 | www.aza.org 33 Dr. Nancy Carpenter, associate director, animal health at Utah’s Hogle Zoo takes the bus to work. In 2016, full-time, part-time, and seasonal staff and interns used alternative transit for five weeks, saving 21,632 commuting miles by car and preventing nine tons of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere.

34 www.aza.org | March 2017 e have received very positive feedback“W about the educational

efficiency efforts, helping the Zoo reduce value from everyone that has had the its energy usage by 26 percent from its 2011 baseline. As part of its energy reduction goal, opportunity to either volunteer at the Philadelphia Zoo has participated in the City of Philadelphia’s demand response (DR) program for several years. On the hottest garden, or been given a tour. I have days of the year, when energy needs are greatest, also known as Red Days, the City of been asked by several individuals, Philadelphia asks DR partners to voluntarily reduce their usage to help ensure access to more reliable, cost-effective energy for all utility customers. ‘What’s next?’” On Red Days, Philadelphia Zoo’s sustainability manager receives an alert that a DR event is likely to occur during the day and sends an email to all staff requesting participation in energy-saving behaviors, such as turning off lights and computer monitors, and turning up temperatures on air conditioning units. Staff also encourages Zoo guests to “Save Energy to Save Wildlife” by taking these and other actions at home. By reducing energy during Red Days, Philadelphia Zoo can help prevent a DR event and earn financial incentives for energy savings, regardless of whether a DR event occurs. According to data collected by the Southeast Regional Climate Center, the summer of 2016 was Philadelphia’s second warmest summer ever recorded, but Philadelphia Zoo experienced its most successful year in the program due to high A crimson-rumped toucanet at Phildelphia Zoo’s staff engagement during Red Days. “I like McNeil Avian Center. An employee suggestion that I see a lot of people who are taking the led to composting diet by-products. initiative to help. The program is making us more aware of how we use energy,” said Cory Zoo New England’s Franklin Park Zoo Edwards, education interpreter at the Zoo. Four years ago, the Organic Garden Project From April to August 2016, the Zoo (OGP) at Zoo New England’s Franklin Park earned incentives for saving 32,712 kilowatt Zoo in Boston, Mass., began with a 20 by hours of energy, enough to provide electricity 30-foot garden plot, which was managed for 3.4 homes for one year, according to by a single volunteer. In 2016, the OGP the EPA Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies was supported by 531 volunteers who Calculator. Accomplishments such as these contributed 1,482 volunteer hours and grew are also shared and celebrated during all staff an impressive 161 pounds of turnips, 72 meetings. “I like hearing that we are making pounds of butternut squash, 60 pounds of a difference,” says Flowers, “It’s an incentive carrots, 60 pounds of romaine lettuce and to do more.” other produce.

34 www.aza.org | March 2017 March 2017 | www.aza.org 35 A ring-tailed lemur eats greens at Franklin Park Zoo.

36 www.aza.org | March 2017 he OGP is an organic garden run by volunteers with staff supervision to grow vegetables, fruit and herbs as food or enrichment for Franklin Park Zoo animals. It also serves as a community outreach program that promotes urban gardening through classes and volunteer opportunities. “The OGP has been a great transitional tool in conveying the Zoo’s mission, as well as sharing our commitment to conservation with those who were previously unaware,” said Harry Liggett, manager of horticulture and grounds at Zoo New England. The OGP currently includes three fenced plots with raised planter beds that are handicap accessible to provide individuals with varying abilities the opportunity to participate. It features an outdoor classroom The Organic Garden Project at Zoo New England’s Franklin Park Zoo began four years that was created using logs salvaged from a ago with a 20 by 30-foot garden plot, which was managed by a single volunteer. In local construction project, a mobile chicken 2016, the OGP was supported by 531 volunteers who contributed 1,482 volunteer coop that can be moved from garden to hours and grew an impressive 161 pounds of turnips, 72 pounds of butternut squash, garden, and a lean-to washing station 60 pounds of carrots, 60 pounds of romaine lettuce and other produce. complete with solar paneling to heat the chicken coop as necessary and to power a drip irrigation system which draws from garden in the near future, Liggett is currently curator and Sustainability Committee chair at a 500-gallon water harvesting set-up. The looking to collaborate with Boston Food Zoo New England. entire project was funded and constructed Forest Coalition, a local urban conservation With the adoption of sustainability through grants and volunteer groups. group who will offer educational programs programs and initiatives, these and other For staff, the OGP has many beneficial and assist in implementing permaculture AZA facilities have found unique ways attributes for education, conservation and principles of design and practice. to cultivate greater staff participation sustainability, in addition to providing “One of the greatest dividends and creativity, and to make meaningful animals with fresh organic produce. For derived from this effort has been the connections with surrounding communities. volunteers, the opportunity to work in the outreach component and how that has Engaging staff, interns and volunteers in garden is educational as well as inspirational. so effectively been a positive tool toward sustainability efforts can provide AZA According to Liggett, “We have not only enumerating Zoo New England’s facilities with compelling on-site examples to received very positive feedback about the sustainability goals, but more importantly demonstrate they are walking the talk when educational value from everyone that has providing tangible examples of how it comes to making the world a better place had the opportunity to either volunteer at volunteers, class participants and staff can for wildlife. the garden, or been given a tour. I have been create similarly positive and ecologically asked by several individuals, ‘What’s next?’” sustainable impacts on their own local Emily Bryant is the sustainability manager In addition to introducing chickens to the environment,” said John Piazza, mammal at the Philadelphia Zoo.

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In Memoriam Member News With a solid vision, Downtown Partnership, commitment and an the Tampa Convention Courtney Cook Thom Stork entrepreneurial spirit, he Center and Greater Tampa McLain Joins Texas The Florida Aquarium oversaw the creation of Chamber of Commerce. State Aquarium as President and CEO Explore a Shore and a Also, he previously held Vice President of Leaves Tampa Rising Tides $15 million several marketing leadership Development with a Marine Legacy campaign which exceeded positions at Busch Gardens The Texas State financial goals and Tampa Bay, Adventure Island, Aquarium in The Florida Aquarium delivered Stingray Beach, SeaWorld of Florida and Corpus Christi, Board, staff and volunteers the Carol J. and Barney Discovery Cove. Texas, are mourning the loss of Barnett Learning Center Prior to Thom’s passing, announced Courtney Cook our esteemed and much and the Mosaic Center, The Aquarium’s Succession McLain as the Aquarium’s new loved President and Chief scheduled for completion Planning Committee vice president of development. Executive Officer, Thom soon. He expressed that identified a search firm Cook McLain comes to the Stork, who, after a valiant one of his most rewarding and initiated the process of Aquarium with considerable fight, succumbed to his contributions to the finding a successor. Chief experience in major capital battle with cancer. Our Aquarium was forging a Operating Officer Scott Rose campaigns both locally and thoughts and prayers go dynamic partnership with is assuming the interim role regionally. She was most recently out to his family at this Tampa Electric (TECO) and of CEO while continuing to the director of annual giving for difficult time. Florida Fish and Wildlife manage the Aquarium’s day- the CHRISTUS Spohn Health During his 14 years Conservation Commission to-day business operations Systems Foundation. at the helm, Thom led (FWC) to create the 20-acre with his leadership team. Cook McLain has also the Aquarium to record Center for Conservation It was Thom’s urgent been part of major fundraising attendance and revenue at Apollo Beach, now request that The Florida efforts by Children’s Medical while bringing the guest in the early stages of Aquarium continue to work Center Foundation and Ronald experience, as well as animal development. Likewise, passionately to protect and McDonald House in Dallas, as and conservation programs, a huge proponent of restore our blue planet, well as Incarnate Word Academy to new heights. The Florida education, he was thrilled to including our waters right and the American Cancer Aquarium Board, staff and see the Aquarium celebrate here in Tampa Bay and the Society in Corpus Christi. volunteers will miss Thom its 1.5 millionth student this Gulf of Mexico. He also “We’re excited to have Courtney tremendously. A true leader, past November. encouraged us to continue join our team. She has a track he led his team with great Thom also was a pillar building bridges by record for leading successful success and prepared them of the community and expanding our conservation campaigns, and her deep ties in for the future. But more than a steadfast advocate for partnerships such as thoseSAVE the THE Corpus DATE Christi community that, Thom was a dear friend marketing Tampa Bay with the National Aquarium will be an asset as we move into to so many of us. From the and Florida as primary in Cuba. We knowAZA our the public2017 phase of Campaign front-of-house staff to our tourism destinations. He supporters expect this as Caribbean, our campaign to ANNUAL CONFERENCE leadership team and Board served on the Florida well, and we will tirelessly raise the funds to complete members, Thom valued Tourism Commission by continue to do so.Indianapolisour | CaribbeanSeptember Journey 9–13 each person’s unique skills. appointment of Governors expansion that will open next We all will need time to Bush and Crist of Florida, Mark Watson spring,” commented Aquarium Network with more than 2,000 colleagues process the loss of such a the boards of Visit Florida, Chair of The Florida President and Chief Executive who share a passion for what they do, great man and leader. Visit Tampa Bay, the Tampa Aquarium Board of Directors Officer Tom Schmid. a drive to ﬁ nd new solutions, and an Networkeagerness with moreto make than a 2, difference 000 colleagues in the who zoo SAVE THE DATE shareand a aquarium passion for community. what they do, Plan a drive to toattend. find new SAVE THE DATE solutions, and an eagerness to make a difference in the zoo andAZA aquarium community.2017 Plan to attend. ANNUAL CONFERENCE Indianapolis | September 9–13 AZA 2017 www.aza.org/annualconference ANNUAL CONFERENCE Network with more than 2,000 colleagues who share a passion for what they do, Indianapolis | September 9–13 a drive to ﬁ nd new solutions, and an eagerness to make a difference in the zoo and aquarium community. Plan to attend.

Network with more than 2,000 colleagues www.aza.org/annualconference who share a passion for what they do,

40 www.aza.orga drive to| March ﬁ nd new2017 solutions, and an eagerness to make a difference in the zoo and aquarium community. Plan to attend.

www.aza.org/annualconference Cook McLain is a degrees from the University of environmental causes, I’m excited to join this team of member of the Association of of Maryland; he earned and believes he could affect dedicated biologists and build Fundraising Professionals. Her his Bachelor’s of Science in the greatest change while upon their impressive research volunteer contributions in the conservation and research serving a leadership role in the efforts that have the potential to local community include serving development, his Master’s conservation arena. improve animal care and field as a founding Board Member for research focused on applied conservation around the world,” the Ronald McDonald House ethology and animal welfare, Renowned Shark said Whitney. of Corpus Christi and stints and his doctorate research Scientist Joins Whitney’s research as president of both the Junior examined the effects of managed Newport Aquarium uses high-tech tags called League of Corpus Christi, Inc., care rearing methods on the Thanks to a accelerometers (the same and Charity League, Inc., as well survival of whooping cranes partnership with motion sensors found in as previously serving on the reintroduced in central Florida. New England smartphones and Fitbits) to Board of Directors of Catholic Between his studies, Kreger Aquarium in measure fine-scale movements Charities of Corpus Christi. gained wildlife biology field Boston, Mass., Newport of animals to study their experience in Honduras through Aquarium in Newport, Ky., has behavior and answer questions Columbus Zoo and the Peace Corps, served as a created a new senior research that can’t be addressed through Aquarium Hires biological technician at Patuxent scientist position. Dr. Nick traditional tags. His current Dr. Michael Kreger as Research Refuge, and served 23 Whitney is the new researcher research with New England Vice President years working on regulations working with the two facilities, Aquarium focuses on whether of Conservation and policy at the United States and is now in residence at sharks survive after being caught The Columbus Department of Agriculture and Newport Aquarium. and released by fishermen. Zoo and the USFWS. He has leadership “This partnership speaks to At Newport, Whitney looks Aquarium in experience from serving on a the reach of the Aquarium. We forward to contributing to Powell, Ohio, variety of technical committees, are now expanding our scope ongoing research around the welcomed Dr. Michael Kreger as including animal welfare, and commitment to wildlife Aquarium’s groundbreaking the vice president of conservation, zoo history conservation through leading- shark ray breeding program, conservation. Kreger joined the and wildlife policy; and has edge shark research,” said Eric developing and testing new team in September 2016, contributed to the scientific field Rose, executive director at types of shark tags and following a 16-year career at the through published research. Newport Aquarium. attachment methods, and helping U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service “This is the kind of position The opportunity for a to increase the conservation impact (USFWS) in Washington, D.C., I’ve wanted since I was a child, dedicated research position of this research. where he most recently served in one where I could do the most presented itself when Dr. “We are fortunate to have the Migratory Bird Program. good for animal conservation,” Whitney relocated to Cincinnati the talents of Dr. Whitney on “Dr. Kreger brings a Kreger said. “I’ve worked in after more than seven years staff. He will also be supporting wealth of knowledge and conservation for a long time, and with Mote Marine Laboratory the husbandry team by leading inspiration to the Columbus most of that time was in science in Sarasota, Fla. He then joined our own in-house research, Zoo and Aquarium, from his or policy. Both are important, the Anderson Cabot Center then publishing our original experience as a mammal keeper but the Zoo is where you can for Ocean Life at New England research in leading journals and at the Bronx Zoo, to creating bring conservation to a very Aquarium, and thanks to some publications,” said Eric Rose. federal policies to protect large and diverse audience and great collaboration with these Dr. Whitney has conducted at-risk species,” said Tom Stalf, give it relevance so that visitors leading facilities, Dr. Whitney research on sharks, sea turtles, president and chief executive will want to take action.” will work in residence right here and other species and has officer. “We are excited to work Throughout his dynamic at Newport Aquarium. appeared on the History Channel, with him in the Zoo’s mission to career path, his primary goal “I’m looking forward Discovery Channel, and National lead and inspire by connecting has been to serve and protect to taking research and Geographic Channel among people with wildlife.” animals. He understands Zoos’ conservation efforts here at others. He has worked with the Kreger’s academic ability—and responsibility—to Newport Aquarium to more of a conservation group OCEARCH background includes three impact the public’s perception national and international level. to tag adult great white sharks off of Cape Cod, and his research has been supported by a variety For more member news, visit of funding sources, including the National Science Foundation, the National Oceanic and www.aza.org/press-room Atmospheric Administration and the National Geographic Society.

40 www.aza.org | March 2017 March 2017 | www.aza.org 41 Faces & Places

Member Updates Omaha’s Henry Doorly Endangered Wildlife (CREW), Zoo and Aquarium the University of Illinois Appoints New at Urbana—Champaign’s Welcome New Members Director of Department of Comparative Reproductive Sciences Biosciences and, most recently, The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is pleased Dr. Jason Herrick the Colorado Center for to warmly welcome new Professional Affiliate, Professional joins Omaha’s Reproductive Medicine. Fellow, Conservation Partners, Accredited Institutions, Henry Doorly Herrick remains actively Certified Related Facilities and Commercial Members. Zoo and involved in on-going studies for Aquarium in Omaha, Neb., in-vitro fertilization in domestic as the new director of cats, fertility in male snow leopards New Professional Marketing, Lehigh Valley Zoo reproductive sciences. and the management of sand cats Affiliate Members Holly Frame, Cape May Herrick will be tasked with and black-footed cats in human Arthur Aguirre, Marketing County Park Zoo evolving the Zoo’s internationally care using artificial insemination. & Customer Relations Whitney Garrison, recognized reproductive He is also a member of Coordinator, El Paso Zoo Zookeeper, Cape May research program, improving the multiple felid conservation Rachel Allen, Primate County Park Zoo success of natural and assisted groups affiliated with AZA, as Keeper, Utah’s Hogle Zoo Marxio Latray Gillis, South breeding efforts and maintaining well as the South Africa-based Scott Anderson, Director of Carolina Aquarium genetically viable animal Black-Footed Cat Working Individual Giving, Denver Zoo Andy Godwin, Events populations, at Omaha’s Henry Group and, to date, has co- Jay Ballard, Educator, Supervisor, Utah’s Hogle Zoo Doorly Zoo and Aquarium and authored more than 25 scientific Disney’s Animal Kingdom Matthew Goodwin, Animal at other facilities accredited by publications on various species. Celina Barbero, Zookeeper, Keeper, San Francisco the Association of Zoos and Herrick received a Bachelor Sacramento Zoo Zoological Gardens Aquariums (AZA). of Science in zoology from Michael Brown, Zookeeper, Emma Dare Hazel, Program He draws on more than Michigan State University, Cape May County Park Zoo Animal Manager, Lincoln 20 years of experience, a Master of Science in Sarah Mary Burroughs, Children’s Zoo having held positions at reproductive physiology from Educator, Turtle Back Zoo Liz Ann Hincks, Education the Cincinnati Zoo and The Ohio State University and Annmarie Campbell, Curator, Fort Wayne Botanical Garden’s Center for a Doctor of Philosophy from Development Officer, The Children’s Zoo Conservation and Research of Purdue University. Living Desert Cari Inserra, Lead Animal Pamela Carter, Area Trainer, San Diego Zoo 592 W. Trout Run Road Manager, The Maryland Zoo Brian Jay, Associate Sales in Baltimore Manager, Aquarium of the Ephrata, PA 17522 Lauren Clarke, Zookeeper, Bay 7172992536 Cape May County Park Zoo Dave Liam Johnston, Tonya Clauss, Senior Manager of Professional Director, Animal Health, Development, Bronx Zoo Mats for Alpacas to Zebras Georgia Aquarium Scott Kayser, Predator Steward Lite Mat  Comfortable Lightweight Crystal Duff, Keeper, Birmingham Zoo  37lbs, 4’ x 6’ x 1 1/2” National Aquarium Amy J. S. King, Animal  Interlock or straightedge Aubree Fairchild, Early Keeper, Cape May County  Great for frail animals Childhood Programs Park Zoo  Absorbs shock, not liquid Manager, San Francisco Lindsey D. Kirkman,  Insulates against cold and Zoological Gardens Assistant Curator of dampness Tessa Marie Fenu, Education Pachyderms, Denver Zoo  Excellent turf protector Specialist, Chattanooga Zoo Judith Kirwin, Zookeeper, at Warner Park Cape May County Park Zoo Button Mat Rachel Forbes, Education Richard Laird, Animal We stock many different Programs Manager, Commissary Supervisor, styles and sizes of mats for Naples Zoo Louisville Zoological Garden Megan Fox, Lorikeet Mariel Lally, Keeper, any animal or application Keeper, Nashville Zoo, Inc Smithsonian National Peter Fox, Director of Zoological Park www.showeaseinc.com For more member news, visit www.aza.org/press-room

42 www.aza.org | March 2017 Sydney Larsen, Area Sinlan Poo, Postdoctoral Christopher Connors, Manager, The Maryland Zoo Fellow, Memphis Zoo Vice President of in Baltimore Michaele Quinn, AustralAsia Operations, San Francisco MARCH 2017 Nicole Licata, Zoo Educator, Keeper, Brevard Zoo Zoological Gardens 26-31: 2017 AZA Mid-Year Meeting Cape May County Park Zoo James Quirk, Zookeeper, Alan Garver, Vice President, Albuquerque Biological Park Adrienne Liszkiewicz, Cape May County Park Zoo Zoological Operations, Albuquerque, N.M. Zookeeper, Cape May Callene Rapp, Senior SeaWorld San Diego www.aza.org/conferences-meetings County Park Zoo Zookeeper, Sedgwick Eileen Gill, Major & Planned Kristen Mankowski, Guest County Zoo Gifts, The Living Desert APRIL 2017 Engagement Interpretive Alexandra Joy Reddy, Lauri Hennessey, Vice 6-13: Crocodilian Biology and Aide, National Aquarium Primate Keeper, President, Communications Captive Management Jill Marino, CFO, Lehigh Smithsonian National & Public Affairs, Woodland St. Augustine Alligator Farm St. Augustine, Fla. Zoological Park Park Zoo Valley Zoo www.aza.org/crocodilian- Beth Markowitz, Volunteer Carrie Ritchie, Asia Quest Richard Hills, Foundation Board biology-and-captive-management Engagement Manager, Zookeeper, Columbus Zoo Chairman, San Diego Zoo National Aquarium and Aquarium George Jacob, Executive 17-20: African Painted Tiffany Grace Marriner, Kim Romary, Director of Director, Aquarium Dog Conference Zookeeper, Cape May Marketing, Kansas City Zoo of the Bay Topeka Zoo Topeka, Kan. County Park Zoo Amanda Schweighart, Russell Keene, Vice www.topekazoo.org/APDconference Mike Mastalski, Sr. Animal Elephant Manager, President of Operations, Keeper, Cape May County Memphis Zoo Birmingham Zoo 17-22: Best Practices Park Zoo Lauren Scioneaux, Bonnie Marie Kemp, in Animal Keeping Ian McGuire, Education Membership & Events Director of Communication, Buffalo Zoo Technology Specialist, Coordinator, BREC’s Baton Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo Buffalo, N.Y. www.aza.org/best-practices- Detroit Zoo Rouge Zoo James Koth, Director of animal-keeping Katrina Mishel, Commissary Sandi Shoemaker, Primate Parks, Bergen County Keeper, Walter D. Stone Team Lead, Memphis Zoo Zoological Park APRIL-MAY 2017 Memorial Zoo Bryan Sincavage, Matt Lahm, Assistant Janeen Moore, Senior Bird Zookeeper, Cape May Curator of Conservation April 30-May 5: Animal Welfare: Evidence Based Management Keeper, Cape May County County Park Zoo Education, Louisville Chicago Zoological Society Park Zoo Regina Ann Smith, Zoo Zoological Garden Chicago, Ill. Rachel Myers, Animal Care Keeper, Woodland Park Zoo Christine Lowery-Nunez, www.aza.org/animal-welfare-evi- Supervisor-Ecotherms, Stephenie Lynn Stewart, VP of HR, Phoenix Zoo dence-based-management Naples Zo Assistant Curator, SeaWorld Julie Meyer, Director of Sarah Nelson, Animal San Diego Finance, Kansas City Zoo MAY 2017 Keeper, Bergen County Jodi Stirk, Primate John Threlkeld, Life Support 15-19: 13th International Zoological Park Technician I, Duke University Coordinator, Denver Zoo Environmental Enrichment Melanie Oerter, Interim Lemur Center Frank Wilburn, Director of Conference (ICEE) Curator-Behavioral Mike Stover, Animal Keeper, Guest Services, Kansas City Zoo Parque Jaime Duque- Bioparque Wakatá Cape May County Park Zoo Facilities Husbandry, Close Dave Wilke, Bogota, Colombia Encounters & Marine Ryan Strack, Primate Area Manager, Woodland Park Zoo www.parquejaimeduque.com/ Mammals, Minnesota Supervisor, Milwaukee enriquecimiento.html Zoological Garden County Zoological Gardens New/Reinstated Randal D. Pairan, Head Brittany Trudeau, Commercial Members SEPTEMBER 2017 Zookeeper, Memphis Zoo Keeper, Cincinnati Zoo & Deb USA 9-13: AZA Annual Conference Botanical Garden John Vogler, Maintenance, 2815 Coliseum Center Drive Indianapolis Zoo Joseph Parsons, Animal The Living Desert Charlotte, NC 28217 Indianapolis, Indiana Keeper, Cape May County Alan Yester, Bird Email: marketingusa@ www.annual.aza.org/2017/ Park Zoo Department Supervisor, debgroup.com Hayley Kendal Perryman, Birmingham Zoo Phone: (800) 248-7190 Outreach Specialist II, Dallas Zoo www.debgroup.com Submit calendar postings to: Allison Pfeifer, Penguin and New Professional Primary Contact: Ryan Yudis Seal Biologist, Rainforest Fellow Members Hand soaps, hand sanitizers, [email protected] & Aquarium at Moody Kat Benjamin, HR Manager, body washes, sunscreens, pre- Gardens, Inc. The Florida Aquarium work and after-work creams.

42 www.aza.org | March 2017 March 2017 | www.aza.org 43 Thank You to the Generous Support of the SAFE Founders Circle

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Audubon Zoo Dallas Zoo Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens Disney’s Animals, Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens Science & Environment Milwaukee County Zoo Disney Conservation Fund Minnesota Zoological Garden Detroit Zoological Society San Antonio Zoo Houston Zoo, Inc. Sedgwick County Zoo Indianapolis Zoological Society, Inc. Lincoln Park Zoo Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium Akron Zoological Park Saint Louis Zoo Aquarium of the Pacific San Diego Zoo Global Blank Park Zoo Service Systems Associates Cameron Park Zoological Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay & Botanical Society Wildlife Conservation Society Children’s Zoo at Celebration Square Como Park Zoo & Conservatory El Paso Zoo

Brevard Zoo Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo Calgary Zoo Greenville Zoo Cheyenne Mountain Zoo John G. Shedd Aquarium Great Plains Zoo & Delbridge Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden Museum of Natural History Miles River Direct Little Rock Zoo/Arkansas Monterey Bay Aquarium Zoological Foundation Morey Consulting Louisville Zoological Garden Naples Zoo Mystic Aquarium Oakland Zoo National Aquarium Ocean Park Corporation North Carolina Aquariums Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden North Carolina Zoological Park Pueblo Zoo Oregon Zoo Roger Williams Park Zoo Philadelphia Zoo Sacramento Zoo Riverbanks Zoo & Garden San Francisco Zoo San Francisco Zoological Society Schultz & Williams Smithsonian National Zoological Park Texas State Aquarium Virginia Zoological Park Topeka Zoo Woodland Park Zoo Tracy Aviary Zoo Boise Turtle Back Zoo Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Western North Carolina Nature Center As of January 6, 2017 Wildlife Safari

44 www.aza.org | March 2017 Exhibits

Species Survival Plan and the Population Management Center has meant that African penguins in zoos and aquariums have a large and robust population—even more important given the species’ precarious status in the wild,” said Director of the Population Management Center, Sarah Long. Visitors now have the opportunity to get nose-to-beak with these captivating and vocal animals in a 1,350-square-foot immersive sheltered viewing area with floor-to-ceiling windows. Guests will feel as though they’ve plunged into the penguins’ habitat in a state- of-the-art tactile experience complete with squishy floors imitating damp shoreline sand and rockwork with artificial mussels and barnacles, emulating the terrain African penguins navigate in the wild. © Lincoln Park Zoo © Lincoln Park “Active and fascinating to encounter, African penguins African Penguin Exhibit Opens at Lincoln Park Zoo naturally ignite our sense of curiosity and connection,” said As part of its mission to “Robert and Mayari “Providing choice is critical Vice President for Learning and connect people to nature and Pritzker Penguin Cove not only to promoting animal welfare,” Community Engagement, Dana inspire them to participate in gives guests the opportunity said Hope B. McCormick Murphy. “This new exhibit will conservation, Lincoln Park Zoo to observe these incredible Curator of Birds, Sunny Nelson. help us harness that connection in Chicago, Ill., opened its new animals, but also engages “At Robert and Mayari Pritzker into caring about saving this African penguin exhibit, Robert visitors in conversation about Penguin Cove, the penguins can endangered species.” and Mayari Pritzker Penguin both the positive and negative opt to be inside or outdoors and African penguins are also Cove in October 2016. This effects of human-wildlife decide whether to spend time referred to as black-footed immersive exhibit brings light interactions,” said Senior Vice in terrestrial or aquatic spaces. penguins, due to the coloration to the penguins’ endangered President, Dr. Megan Ross. The exhibit is expertly designed of their feet, and are further status as well as the unique “Endangered due to human to accommodate the needs of characterized by the pink characteristics of this temperate impact, such as unsustainable individual animals as well as coloration around their eyes, species. The Zoo works closely fishing practices and oil spills, those of the flock as a whole.” black breast-band and belly with the Association of Zoos this species cannot survive Robert and Mayari Pritzker markings. Native to the shores of and Aquariums’ (AZA’s) Saving without our help.” Penguin Cove is designed to South Africa and Namibia, these Animals From Extinction (SAFE) African penguins inhabit accommodate up to a 24 to 30 beach-dwellers are one of 18 program, which focuses the the 3,350-square-foot outdoor penguin flock. The Zoo works penguin species. collective expertise within AZA- exhibit space that features cooperatively with the African Robert and Mayari Pritzker accredited zoos and aquariums to a 20,500-gallon pool and Penguin Species Survival Plan® Penguin Cove is a $7 million save species. The African penguin naturalistic South African (SSP) which uses Lincoln Park Zoo exhibit, which is part of Lincoln is a SAFE priority species due landscape and strategically Population Management Center’s Park Zoo’s $125 million capital to its decreasing population in designed rockwork that enables genetic analyses to inform campaign, The Pride of Chicago, the wild, which has gone from the penguins to engage in transfer and breeding plans. which provides funding for 141,000 breeding pairs in 1956 to species-specific behavior, such as “Careful management new initiatives and structures only about 25,000 today. burrowing and nesting. by the African Penguin throughout the Zoo.

44 www.aza.org | March 2017 March 2017 | www.aza.org 45 Announcements

AZA Committee Call for Service internal and external animal welfare issues; and understanding Dear Colleagues: and influencing public perception about animal welfare Greetings All! As the Chair-Elect of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), it is my pleasure to in AZA zoos and aquariums. announce this “Call for Service” and request that you consider serving on an AZA Committee. We all depend on the expertise of all of our colleagues—on both a personal and institutional level, and from ANNUAL CONFERENCE the perspective of zoos and aquariums of all sizes. With the introduction of SAFE (Saving Animals From PROGRAM Extinction), the work of our committees is more important than ever. Please consider committing your Ensures the highest quality and time to help us advance our collective goals. constant improvement of AZA Committee service is very rewarding; however, it does involve attendance at committee meetings conferences to maximize delegate each year, in addition to ongoing work and regular conference calls. Therefore, it is important to have experience, conference host the explicit support of your Director as you undertake this responsibility. The term of service on most experience, program quality, Committees is three years. administrative efficiency and It is my privilege, as Chair-Elect, to match your expertise and desires with the needs of the financial excellence. committees. While we may receive more volunteer applications than available positions, I assure you we will do everything possible to involve you. CONSERVATION Here is how it works: if you are interested in serving on one of the committees listed below, you must EDUCATION be an individual member of AZA. If you are not a member, you can join now by contacting membership@ Strengthens the services AZA aza.org. You may then apply to serve. Please fill out the application form and then send it to: committees@ provides its members for aza.org. We need to hear from you by 1 May so I can complete the appointments prior to the Annual developing and delivering Conference. the highest quality public There is great personal and professional satisfaction in supporting our Association through its conservation education committees and programs. We have lofty goals within our Association—together we can meet these programs and involving people goals, and in the process help all of our aquariums and zoos meet their missions as well. I look forward to in conservation action; heightens hearing from you regarding your interests and working with you on committees in the future. public awareness of the crucial Thanks for your help and involvement. roles of zoos and aquariums in conserving wildlife; develops Jim Breheny education resources for EVP & General Director, WCS Zoos & Aquarium and Director members, teachers, students, Bronx Zoo the public and others; clarifies Chair-Elect, AZA Board of Directors visitor demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and motivations to foster more effective public conservation education; and To fill out your application form ANIMAL HEALTH between AZA, AAZV, and animal ensures that AZA accreditation go to: www.aza.org/get-involved. Ensures the highest quality and health regulatory agencies, such as standards for education reflect Below is a list of committees and most comprehensive animal USDA and the CDC. current best practices and a brief outline of some of the health care in all AZA facilities by: facilitates members’ adherence to ways they serve the AZA. drafting and reviewing health- ANIMAL WELFARE these standards. related guidelines and policies Ensures that animal welfare ACCREDITATION as requested by the AZA Board, is a central tenet of AZA’s FIELD CONSERVATION Evaluates accreditation other Scientific Advisory Groups animal programs by: defining Assists all AZA institutions in materials, develops standards, (SAG) and AZA programs; and increasing a common effective and sustained wildlife reviews inspection reports responding to emerging disease understanding of animal welfare; and habitat conservation. and grants certification issues by drafting protocols, identifying and encouraging and accreditation. Note: guidelines, and recommendations the development of animal GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS To be considered for the for AZA institutions; providing welfare research projects and Assists in development of AZA Accreditation Commission a review of research or conservation assessment tools; educating positions on legislation and member must have served on proposals for CGF and other and engaging AZA zoos and regulations affecting the membership. a number of inspection teams granting bodies; working with aquariums in using/applying and preferably have experience Accreditation Commission on welfare assessment tools; driving HONORS & AWARDS chairing a team. www.aza.org/ development and/or review the creation of husbandry Evaluates and honors accred-comm/. of health-related accreditation guidelines for all taxa; proactively achievements in the zoo and standards; and acting as a liaison identifying and addressing aquarium profession, including

46 www.aza.org | March 2017 educational programming, Special Committees RESEARCH AND best practices in safety within animal management, TECHNOLOGY zoos and aquariums. conservation, exhibition design, ADVANCEMENT Advances the use of research diversity and marketing. Provides experience and applies and technology to promote the TRENDS the tools of fundraising and use of good science throughout Identifies, evaluates and prioritizes MARKETING friendraising to the unique our profession, identifies best industry and external trends to The Marketing Committee serves challenges of zoos and aquariums. practices and their applications, provide actionable, forward- to enhance the AZA membership and facilitates communication looking data and tools so AZA and generate new revenue AQUARIUM AFFAIRS among our scientific and is strategically anticipating and streams by providing expertise Provides input and feedback to animal management and meeting the needs of its members. and support for building the AZA Board of Directors on education communities. awareness and participation issues that are uniquely aquatic in VOLUNTEER in AZA and its programs; nature, in order to guide policy. SAFETY MANAGEMENT serves as the industry’s leading • Assists the AZA Board in Addresses emerging safety issues, Provides practical resources and voice on marketing trends and reviewing proposed AZA and serves as a primary resource support for AZA professionals opportunities; and shares best policies, committee or for gathering and disseminating that work with volunteers. practices in marketing programs conservation unit mandates, among the membership. accreditation standards, etc. for their potential effect Honors and Awards Applications MEMBERSHIP on the aquatic institutional Monitors and reviews membership- membership or on institutions Due 1 JUNE 2017 related matters including AZA with aquatic collections which It’s time to share your successes and member benefits and assists typically require unique animal exceptional work! with recruitment and retention. management approaches. • Assists AZA in assimilating • Edward H. Bean Award membership directives into the PROFESSIONAL • Angela Peterson Excellence DEVELOPMENT aquatic institution culture. in Diversity Award Oversees the development, • Education Award administration, and BUSINESS OPERATIONS assessment of the Association’s Provides mentoring and • Excellence in Marketing Award professional development and networking opportunities for • Exhibit Award (due 1 June, but please training programs. our colleagues; engages new let us know that you are applying by 1 May) commercial vendors in AZA; • Green Award PUBLIC RELATIONS explores cooperative purchasing • International Conservation Award Provides public relations opportunities that may ensure • North American Conservation Award advice and counsel to the savings for members; and • Volunteer Engagement Award AZA. Engages in outreach to establishes ethics and standards professionals within the AZA for business operations. Applications, guidelines and the 2016 winners are community to share public available at www.aza.org/honors-awards. The awards relations best practices. Leads DIVERSITY will be presented at the 2017 AZA Annual in the development of public Creates a culture within AZA Conference (9-13 September) in relations programming at AZA that inspires respect and conferences and meetings. understanding of the value of Indianapolis, Ind., hosted diversity. As a core value of by the Indianapolis WILDLIFE AZA, the committee’s work Zoo. You can also read New this year! about the new Species CONSERVATION is pertinent to the successful A cash award & MANAGEMENT management of zoos and Survival Plan® (SSP) for TOP HONORS in the Facilitates the professional and aquariums. Sustainability Award North American Conservation scientific management of AZA that will be presented category thanks to the member institutions’ animal HUMAN RESOURCES at the 2017 Mid- Arthur L. and Elaine V. collections. WCMC develops, Provides mentoring Year Meeting in Johnson Foundation. oversees, promotes, evaluates and and networking for HR Albuquerque, N.M. supports the cooperative animal professionals and input (26-31 March). management, programs and regarding the unique challenges initiatives of the AZA. of staffing zoos and aquariums.

46 www.aza.org | March 2017 March 2017 | www.aza.org 47 Announcements

2017 AZA Photo Contest License: By entering the contest, Photos must be taken in 2017 Deadline: The deadline for you grant to AZA, or the last three months of entries is 15 September 2017. and its successors 2016 by staff or volunteers at and assigns, the an Association of Zoos and Format: JPG, TIFF or EPS; non-exclusive, Aquariums (AZA)-accredited 300+ dpi and 9”x12” in size (jpgs worldwide, institution. Connect staff will judge preferred). perpetual right the photos, and the winner will and license to use, appear on the December 2017 Send to: Both electronic display, reproduce, cover. Other exceptional photos and hard copy images will be publish, transmit, will be highlighted inside the accepted – though electronic and distribute magazine. The photos may also images are preferred. All your photograph appear on AZA’s website and/or submissions become the on AZA’s other promotional materials. property of AZA and will not website, in our be acknowledged or returned. magazine, and/ Format for Submission Send electronic images to Tim or in any other Submissions should include the Lewthwaite at TLewthwaite@ promotional name of the photographer, the aza.org with “Photo Contest” materials. AZA institution, the species, in the subject line. Hard copies Your grant and the date of the picture, and may be mailed to: license shall also the equipment used. Only one apply to any reprints, revised By entering the contest you photo entry will be accepted per 2017 Photo Contest editions, or derivative works in also represent, acknowledge and photographer, so send in your Tim Lewthwaite any media or format, whether warrant that (i) the submitted best image. Pictures can include AZA Publications Manager now or hereafter known, photograph is an original work animals, people, and zoo or 8403 Colesville Road including without limitation created solely by you, and you aquarium scenes – if you think it Suite 710 other kinds of print media and are the sole owner of all right, will make a good cover, send it in. Silver Spring, MD 20910-3314 electronic media. title, and interest in and to

48 www.aza.org | March 2017 your photograph, including 2017 AAZK the copyright; (ii) AZA’s Awards Advertiser Index publication of your photograph ATM - Acrylic Tank Manufacturing...... 50-51 as authorized herein will not Nominations A Thru Z Consulting and Distributing, Inc...... 52 violate or infringe any right, Opened Aqua Logic, Inc...... 38 title, or interest of any person Cemrock Landscapes, Inc. or entity; (iii) AZA’s publication The American Association of Naturalistic Environments...... 59 of your photograph will not Zoo Keepers (AAZK) Awards Central Nebraska Packing, Inc...... Back Cover violate any right of privacy or Committee is accepting COST of Wisconsin, Inc...... 18 publicity nor create any other nominations for the Lifetime Fauna Research, Inc...... 53 Global Innovation LLC...... 2 liability in tort and that you have Achievement Award, the Hayward Flow Control...... 54 obtained a valid model release Meritorious Service Award, iZone Imaging...... 55 from any identifiable, individual The Lutz Ruhe Meritorious K&K Insurance Group, Inc...... 18 person who is the subject of the Achievement—AAZK McRoberts Sales Co., Inc...... 55 photograph; (iv) you are not a Professional of the Year Award, Midwest Tongs, Inc...... 5 party to and your photograph the Jean M. Hromadka AAZK Nets Unlimited, Inc...... 58 is not subject to any contract or Excellence in Animal Care PMI® Nutrition International, LLC...... 19 arrangement that would conflict Award, the Nico van Strien Polar King International, Inc...... 59 with your permission herein; Leadership in Conservation Richards-Wilcox, Inc...... 54 and (v) you agree to indemnify Award, the Lee Houts RodentPro.com, LLC...... Inside Back Cover and hold harmless AZA against Advancement in Enrichment ShowEase Inc...... 42 any damages, losses, or expenses Award, the Certificate of Merit Skulls Unlimited occurring as a result of any for Zoo Keeper education, International, Inc...... Inside Front Cover claimed breach of warranty. the Certificate of Excellence Timberline Live Foods...... 39 in Exhibit Renovation and Tom Tischler Bronze...... 48 Vortex Insurance Agency...... 6 Release Form: To be the Animal Nutrition Award WA Davidson of Jax, Inc...... 56 considered for publication in which will be presented at the Zoo Med Laboratories, Inc...... 57 Connect, all contest photos 2017 AAZK Conference in that include people must be Washington, D.C. The deadline accompanied by AZA’s Model for nominations is 1 May 2017. Release Form signed by each Information concerning the person depicted. qualifications, nomination procedure, selection procedure and an explanation of the awards 2017 Annual may be obtained at www.aazk. Conference org, under committees/awards. Call for Papers Hurry! 2017 AZA Submission Deadline Friday, 21 April Call for Service The AZA Annual Conference Professional Development Program Committee is Course Instructors - Come looking for your expertise and teach with AZA. The enthusiasm regarding the latest Professional Development topics and trends to be a part Committee invites you to of the 2017 Annual Conference apply to be an instructor for program. Coordinate a session an AZA professional training submission or share your course. AZA’s courses are team- knowledge and great ideas as taught by experienced and an individual paper or poster. knowledgeable professionals View the Call for Papers helpful from the zoo and aquarium hints and hot topics at www. community. Learn all the details aza.org/annualconference. The at www.aza.org/professional- submission deadline is Friday, development. The application 21 April at 11:59 p.m. Pacific. deadline is 1 May.

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March 2017 | www.aza.org 59 TAMPA’S LOWRY PARK ZOO Tampa, Florida Mother Kidogo gave birth to a female calf on 12 September, marking the fifth successful southern white rhino birth and the eighth rhino born in the Zoo’s history (five African, three Asian). The OREGON ZOO calf’s weight is estimated somewhere between 80-100 pounds, but she has the potential to reach Portland, Oregon up to 4,500 at full size. The Zoo participates in Two Rodrigues flying foxes are being the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) raised at the Oregon Zoo’s “bat cave” Rhino Taxon Advisory Group (TAG), which this summer, adding to the growing includes the Southern White Rhino Species population of a bat species once Survival Plan® (SSP). considered the most imperiled on the planet. Close in size to a prairie dog, this critically endangered species is native only to Rodrigues, a tiny island in the Indian Ocean about 900 miles east of PHILADELPHIA ZOO Madagascar. The bat plays an important Philadelphia, Pennsylvania ecological role on the island, where few other pollinators or seed dispersers exist. Philadelphia Zoo welcomed a new addition to the family: a western lowland gorilla baby born to Honi, a 22-year-old female and 31-year old Motuba on 26 August 2016. The baby is currently on exhibit along ALBUQUERQUE BIOLOGICAL PARK with the rest of the troop in PECO Albuquerque, New Mexico Primate Reserve. This birth serves as a significant contribution to the gorilla The Albuquerque BioPark announced population in the United States. the fledging of a Sunda wrinkled hornbill (Rhabdotorrhinus corrugatus) chick that hatched in mid-June 2016. The male is the second hatched to this SSP recommended pair in the past three years. Wrinkled hornbills are native to the Sundaic lowlands of Thailand, Brunei, Sumatra, Indonesia and Malaysia. This hornbill species is red listed MARYLAND ZOO IN BALTIMORE by the International Union for Conservation Baltimore, Maryland of Nature (IUCN) and is considered near threatened because of deforestation. The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore announced the birth of a Coquerel’s sifaka born on 25 October 2016. This is the fifth offspring for The Zoo’s sifaka pair, Anastasia, age 12, and BROOKFIELD ZOO Gratian, age 14. Offspring Otto and Nero, Brookfield, Illinois born approximately nine months apart in Two red river hog piglets, one male and 2011, moved to the Duke Lemur Center one female, were born on 18 August at in 2013 and Max, born in 2013, moved to Brookfield Zoo. Typically found in large the Los Angeles Zoo in 2014. Leo, born in social groups, red river hogs are native 2014, remains at The Maryland Zoo with her to forested areas in central and southern parents and new sibling. This birth is the result Africa. The hogs are easy to identify by of a recommendation from the Sifaka SSP. their striking rust-red fur with black to gray legs and a white stripe down the spine. At birth, piglets are born with black and rusty-red stripes that fade at about six months. Their distinct coloring, unique ear tassels and neck mane help protect the species against predators.

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