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The Oceletter Oct/Nov 2020

Ocelots Web-based Presentation When: Thursday, October 8, 2020 5:00-6:00 pm Who: Steve Metzler

What: Update on Eric the rhino Relocated from The Safari Park to Tanzania Our Mission The enthusiastically support the efforts of the Zoological Society of through active involvement, commitment to education, and fund-raising. In This Issue A Note From The Head . 2 Mark Your Calendars . 3 Reviews of Our Last 3 Webinars . 4 A Review of Our August Webinar . 5 A Review of Our September Webinar. 6 Wes Potterton 8/22/1955-8/26/2020 . 7 Grants Program Update. 8 Grants In Action. 10 About the Ocelots. 13 Visit our website http://www.sandiegozoo.org/society/ocelots.html Page 2

A Note From The Head Ocelot By Kim BidermanN Head Ocelot

Fellow Ocelots, 2020 has come with many challenges. I am proud of our Ocelot board who, in spite of many challenges, has pivoted and is now bringing you quality information via webinars and emails with updates. These webinars, the auction, the Ocelot slogan survey; all these reassure me that we are helping bring a respite from these Covid quarantine requirements while keeping all of you informed and continuously engaged by our love of the we all cherish. Our work continues unabated! Grant request letters have been sent. Our October webinar is all set, and the November webinar is in the planning stage. I hope to see you all online and look forward eagerly to the time when we can all get back together for dinner and some time with our ambassadors. Kim Bidermann Visit our website http://www.sandiegozoo.org/society/ocelots.html Page 3

Mark Your Calendars

You won’t want to miss a single Ocelots event this year!

Oct 8: Steve Metzler: Update on Eric the rhino

Nov 5: Autumn Nelson: Black-footed cats

Please note: The Ocelot schedule is currently in flux. In the midst of the Corona Virus crisis we are unsure as to when we will be able to resume our scheduled activities. As soon as San Diego Global is able to let us know when we will be able to we will schedule and resume our great dinners, special events, and presentations. Please know that your Steering Committee is working to get things back to normal as soon as possible. Please note that these dates, venues, speakers, and topics are tentative and are subject to change. There is construction scheduled for the Children's Zoo and our access to the Zoo Party Area (ZPA) may be affected. Our speakers are staff members of SDZG and their schedules may change necessitating a change in our programs.

Contribute to the Contact Us Oceletter! The best way to reach a member of the Steering Committee is to use the following e-mail address: [email protected] We invite you to submit articles and Oceletter photographs for the . This e-mail account is monitored frequently, and questions can be routed to the member of All content should be submitted the Steering Committee who should handle them. electronically to the Oceletter Editor, Paul Brooks, at The following people can be reached directly: [email protected]. Kim Bidermann–Head Ocelot (619) 233-7600 [email protected] Theresa Low–Grants/Logo Wear (858) 391-8616 [email protected] Paul Brooks–Oceletter Editor (619) 889-9051 [email protected] Visit our website http://www.sandiegozoo.org/society/ocelots.html Page 4

Reviews of Our Last 3 Webinars Kim Grey, Curator for Herpetology and Ichthyology for Global, presented her webinar “Herpetology Field Conservation Programs and Tools Used to Save Species” the evening of July 9. A recording of the presentation can be found at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1v8S1OcI5nZM6Em89mRzQWzLXgjoo_VH3/view Kim explained that zoo and aquarium programs with reptiles and amphibians in the past have been in response to disaster, step- ping in after a fire, drought, or loss. Catastrophic events such as Chytridiomycosis (Amphibian chytrid fungus disease) impact- ing so many animals globally sound quite ominous, so the professional try to look at the bright side in offering help. More recently, zoo staff and conservation partners around the world joined in the rescue effort after the confiscation of a truckload of about 4000 critically endangered Palawan in the Philippines, estimated to be a large percentage of the total adult population of that reptile. They also went to Madagascar to provide husbandry care and support for the rehabilitation of 11,000 radiated tortoises confis- cated from wildlife traffickers. Kim, as a member of the IUCN’s Crocodilian Specialists Group, is involved in an IUCN study of crocodilian species’ status around the world (The International Union for Conservation of Nature is the organization that compiles data to determine the con- servation status of species globally). She is the coordinator of the (SSP-a pedigree of sorts of the animals of one species in managed care, with the goal of maintaining a healthy population of the species for at least one hundred years) for the slender-snouted crocodile. In the wild, SDZG field biologists are studying the situation of the wild crocodilians in West , collect- ing data on the population and sharing information on improved husbandry methods to further the conservation efforts by countries that are home to those animals. The other crocodilian species Kim highlighted was the Indian , found at the zoo on The Reptile Walk. Although SDZG does not currently breed this species, the organization supports research and conservation efforts in the field. SDZG is also involved in conservation efforts to save the critically endangered Figi . Within the zoo community the organization manages the SSP for this reptile and is involved in the breeding both for zoo facilities and to head-start individuals for release back to their native habitat. In partnership with 15 global and local organizations, SDZG supports education outreach programs in Figi, enables habitat rehabilitation, and provides long term monitoring of the wild individuals. The collaborative conservation project for the western in San Diego County is an example of SDZG working to end on the local level. The goal of this multi-agency program is to expand on the wild population of Southern ’s only native freshwater turtle. This project has looked at various aspects of conservation, including preferred land and , the pros and cons of head-starting populations (looking at similar projects in other states and regions), and how to harvest eggs from females for the head-starting of hatchlings. Kim summed up the motivation for the various herptile conservation efforts with a quote from author Simon Sinek, “Working hard for something we don’t care about is called stress: working hard for something we love is called passion.”

Visit our website http://www.sandiegozoo.org/society/ocelots.html Page 5

A Review of Our August Webinar

On August 13th Lauren Yang, Senior Avian Care Specialist at the Avian Propagation Center, told us all about “The ABCs of the APC: Who We Are, What We Do, and Why it Matters. The APC is a department of the San Diego Zoo separate from the Bird Department, but one that often works together through information sharing and support for bird rearing. The APC is located up the hill from the Afri- can area, off public view, and works primarily with birds that are rare or genetically valuable. The staff specializes in incubation and hand-rearing, and will step in with zoo birds when parents cannot care for their eggs or chicks. The APC breeding section is divided into parrot and passerine focused strings, labeled as APCII and APCIII. Breeding season for most of the birds at the SDZ, similar to that of the native birds, is May to September. The staff, including three avian care specialists, provides natural with seasonal enrichment for the birds in residence. The Ocelots have helped by fulfilling a grant request for a greenhouse, where care staff can now grow such items as pumpkins, snapdragons, sunflowers, zinnias, and rainbow corn. Five full-time specialists and one seasonal staff member are employed at the Incubation Team Facility (APCI), the second main division of the APC. The care specialists work on incubation and hand-rearing in this facility built for temperature control and ease of cleaning. Eggs come to the APCI when parents abandon or are unable to care for eggs, when they come from certain endangered species, and for fertility checks. The care specialists have developed their expertise for hundreds of species. An Ocelots grant of an incubator has helped in their success, along with detailed data collection on egg and chick development. Chicks are raised in the brooder room, staffed by second part of the APC team Hand-rearing protocols varies with each order, fam- ily, or species of bird. Altricial species rearing (the unfeathered, helpless chicks) is much more intensive than that for the precocial species (down-covered chicks that can feed on their own). Growth is tracked in detail to ensure chicks grow into healthy chicks. To prevent im- printing on humans (a strategy not needed for colony species or for ambassador candidates), the avian care specialists use a method called ghosting, wearing some sort of clothing to hide their human appearance. The APC staff also applies their skills beyond their physical center. Through partner projects they have assisted in the raising of ‘akeke’e and ‘akikiki chicks in Hawaii, mangrove finch for the project in the Galapagos Islands, and seabird chicks for SANCCOB in . They have provided workshops on hand-rearing and record-keeping for avian conservation projects around the world. If you missed the original broadcast of this webinar, it can be accessed through this link. https://app.box.com/s/8tg0c1fr4648df6tr0l7neq5vasbqnjl

If you see the dialog box that reads, “We’re sorry, your account is unable to preview this file type,” click the download button and you can view the mp4 file on your computer. Visit our website http://www.sandiegozoo.org/society/ocelots.html Page 6

A Review of Our September Webinar

The webinar on September 3rd marked the return of Ollie’s Minute. Dr. Oliver Ryder spoke to “Keeping Our Conservation Momentum in the Time of Covid-19.” He reported that staff working on the burrowing owl project have remained active in the field, although lab work isn’t practical so other SDZG staff have been working from home. Utilizing whole genome sequencing data available from the , an international team of scientists applied molecular tools to predict the risk factor of SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes Covid-19) to other species. In humans, the virus latches onto the ACE 2 protein receptor, and not surprisingly the great apes (western lowland , chimpanzees, and bonobos) show the same very high risk of infection. Surprisingly, some species, dolphins, and white-tailed deer show a high risk. Recent evidence of Covid-19 in Malayan at the indicates that this virus could potentially impact the population of many endangered animals in managed care, so this strengthens the policy of wearing masks when visiting the zoo as protection for the animal residents as well as the human visitors. Dwight Scott, Director of the San Diego Zoo, gave the featured presentation “The New Children’s Zoo-Progress Report,” using architectural renderings as well as photos of the construction progress of this $109 million project. The Zoo Party Area (typically referred to as the ZPA) is complete with a stained concrete surface and walls decorated with colorful animal graphics, softened by a border of artificial grass and floral plantings. The area has a stage for animal presentations in the future. The Busy Bee Café has opened with a menu planned by executive chef Carissa, who will also be improving on dining options throughout the zoo. The habitat and new will be outside of the Children’s Zoo, but are part of the project. They will both feature new energy- efficient construction, including roofed areas made of air sandwiched between Teflon layers. These “Teflon pillows” are opaque, which allows UV light to penetrate, but reduces the possibility of bird strikes. Currently the plan if for these two habitats to open the end of May 2021. The emphasis of the new Children’s Zoo will be on nature play. Children will be able to cross a swinging bridge. splash in a stream and waterfall, and experience multiple water jets. They will be able to climb an artificial and be at eye level with the squirrel monkeys. A key feature will be the two-story invertebrate building, where children will be able to view beekeepers at their job and interact with insect ambassadors. ambassadors will rotate residence in outdoor habitats. As of now the opening of Children’s Zoo is October 2021. For those of you who missed the original webinar, it can be viewed at the following link: https://register.gotowebinar.com/recording/696327720329788941 Visit our website http://www.sandiegozoo.org/society/ocelots.html Page 7

Wes Potterton 8/22/1955-8/26/2020

Wes was a frequent visitor and Zoo member since he was a young child, and even started college with the intention of getting a degree in Zoology and working at the Zoo. He started volunteering at the Zoo in August of 2013, completing his onboarding within two months, with the intention, in his words, of “paying back a great institution for all it’s given me”. He wanted to pass on his love of wildlife, and quickly added several assignments to his repertoire, including Insect House, Enrich- ment, and Interpretive volunteering at Gorillas, Asian Passage, and . He became part of the RITZ team in 2018, and served as Treasurer for the Ocelots Steering Committee. Wes’s passion at the Zoo was enrichment. He was here on August 12th for nearly 8 hours building out new towers to install in the capuchin exhibit. His last shift was on August 15th for a gourd workshop. Wes worked hard to make sure all keeper requests were fulfilled, even working on special projects and partnering with the local community to get donations. He was an integral team member, trainer, and friend. In Wes’s seven years as a volunteer with us he contributed nearly 3,000 hours according to his file, yet we know without a doubt Wes did much more. His legacy will live on through his amazing wife Lori, his two children, Rachel and Matthew, and his grandchildren. Wes is already dearly missed, but will never ever be forgotten.

From Lori: It’s with heavy heart to announce that my sweet, gentle husband passed peacefully this evening. Wes being selfless to the very end donated his organs to Lifesharing. During this process, doctors stopped to read the below “Moment of Silence” so well written by Rachel who captured her father's essence of life.

These eyes have seen the sun slip down the horizon of the Serengeti. These feet have marched over the morning dew of golf courses around the world. These hands have built and dug and held and hugged. This mind has created the most breathtaking artwork, solved the most complex prob- lems, and dreamed the most beautiful life. But it’s this heart that’s gripped us most, loved us so deeply and felt the love and admiration of all who were blessed to cross his path. We will hold the sound of his laughter, the warmth of his embrace, and the beauty of his soul in our hearts and minds forever. He is our father, my son, my brother, my friend, my soul mate, he is forever a hero. Visit our website http://www.sandiegozoo.org/society/ocelots.html Page 8

Grants Program Update By Theresa Low Grants Coordinator

With the last days of summer just around the corner, here is a short update on what is going on with our grants program. Ocelots-in-Action Auction. Going…going…gone! Our first online auction was a success! Thank you for donating items, registering, bidding, and even sharing the auction with your family and friends. We also received a few online donations to the Grants Program. So many creative items – artwork, painted gourds, beautiful face coverings, and gorgeous quilts. The classics were a hit as well – the Centennial design is still immensely popular as well as Ocelots 30th anniversary frames. And treasures from some well-loved animals – Nola, our Northern white rhino and Janey, the Bornean made the winners incredibly happy. A few fun facts: • 72 people registered – Ocelots, Zoo and Safari Park Volunteers, and family and friends • 77 items sold • The winner furthest from San Diego lives in Indiana and is the daughter of one of the volunteer artists who designed some of the gourds • $5,410.25 has been added to 2020 grants fund San Diego Zoo Global (SDZG) Wildlife Wednesdays. Did you enjoy the series? A link to the series recordings is at: endextinction. org/wildlife-wednesdays. The final discussion focused on conservation work in Kenya, specifically with and African . If you choose to watch, I challenge you to identify some of the Ocelots grant awards that are helping save these iconic species. Some of the community-based projects and partnerships should sound familiar. The photos and videos captured on the trail cameras are spectacular. And you can hear from Symon Masiaine, the Twiga Walinzi Coordinator. He is mentioned in the Grants-In- Action update in this Oceletter issue! • Interested in helping researchers from your home? Go to wildwatchkenya.org to learn more. 2020 Call for Grant Requests. The application has been shared with SDZG staff. Applications are due September 30th. The 2020 List of Grant Requests will be available to you in October.

However you enjoy these final summer days, I hope you are happy and healthy! Visit our website http://www.sandiegozoo.org/society/ocelots.html Page 9

Gramts Program Updatre cont. from previous page

Your gifts make a difference! To make a donate to the Ocelots Grants Program, follow or copy and paste this link: https://zoo.sandiegozoo.org/support-us/ocelots and scroll down to “Donate to Ocelots here”. The process is secure and an easy way to support conservation work for animals, plants, and research here in San Diego and around the world. Visit our website http://www.sandiegozoo.org/society/ocelots.html Page 10

Grants In Action By Theresa Low Grants Coordinator

Zoo Odyssey – Helping Animals Thrive Lamb carcass enrichment. African lion, Ernest, demonstrates the proper technique for a paws- free carcass transport. Grant awards in 2019 supported lamb carcasses for both the large cats and polar bears. Whole prey items, such as carcass, have shown to increase food processing time in large carnivores and decrease stereotypic behaviors. Portable scales. This shares the latest wellness trend: stand on your scale when enjoying your snacks! Portable scales are extremely important in caring for small such as the sloth, dik-dik, capybara, and baby tapirs. These animals are all under more intensive medical management and having a portable scale in the area for scheduled and opportunistic weigh checks improves efficiency and overall animal welfare.This scale can be read from a distance by a phone app so animals that are not secure stepping on the scale next to an animal care specialist benefit immensely. Trail cameras. These trail cameras are wireless and capable of obtaining high-definition images and video for animal observations. These cameras greatly improve wildlife care specialist’s ability to monitor animal behavior such as introductions, medical concerns, neonatal monitoring, and much more. The cameras are discreet and long lasting. The photographs show different views of the camera set-up at the and mixed species habitat. Visit our website http://www.sandiegozoo.org/society/ocelots.html Page 11

Gramts In Action cont. from previous page Zoo Jennings Center for Zoological Medicine – Patient Care This photo shows an incredibly special look inside the operating room with a surgery in progress. Here are Dr. Rob and Dr. Ben “in action”. Respecting the privacy rights of the patient, the patient and procedure details have not been disclosed. While not the best photo, the photo shows some of the laparoscopic equipment Dr. Rob and I used during a recent surgery that was provided by the Ocelots last year. This equipment allows us to make tiny incisions, which makes for an easier recovery for the patients, while allowing us to do needed surgical procedures. Thanks, Dr. Ben Senior Veterinarian Also awarded, but not pictured, are thermometers used to monitor temperature during procedures and a variety of seasonal plants for exhibit enhancement and enrichment for patients staying at the hospital. We received a thank you card from the team as well! Some of the handwritten messages read:  Ocelots Team – thank you for helping us fund hospital equipment & enrichment items!  Thank you for all you do helping us with acquisition of new/updated equipment. – Marianne  Ocelots are Fabulous! Xox, Mary  Thank you for all the support you give us year after year! – Dr. Ben  Thanks for all you do for us!! – Yvette  Thank you so much for continuing to support Vet Services. - Tracey Visit our website http://www.sandiegozoo.org/society/ocelots.html Page 12

Gramts In Action cont. from previous page Safari Park Mammal Department – Managing a Healthy Herd I wanted to share a “thank you” to the Ocelots from the Mammal Department here at the Safari Park for the purchase of two new scales this year!! These scales have been very beneficial. They fit great into many of our barn alleys, allowing us to obtain weights on some difficult species. Here is a photo of one of our female bongos on one of the scales. I know another crew was able to obtain weights on ALL the Somali herd. This is a Big Deal for us and really allows us to raise the bar on our animal husbandry. Thanks again, Melodi Supervisor – Mammal Department

Twiga Walinzi Giraffe Research in Kenya – Connecting Communities and Conservation This story begins with a 2017 grant request for a vehicle. The rationale: a conservation research, community outreach, and anti-poaching support vehicle for the /giraffe project in Kenya is vital for our efforts in the field and with communities, and in supporting and partnering in anti-poaching and snare removal, as we are addressing people-wildlife- conflict. While Ocelots did not fund the $30,000 request, other donors, some within SDZG, did. However, the vehicle continues to circle back to Ocelots! I just wanted to share the attached blog that was written about our research vehicles in Kenya by Symon Masiaine, the coordinator of the Twiga Walinzi giraffe research team in Kenya. The Ocelots very kindly helped us with vehicle modifications for one of our research vehicles so I thought they might like to see how impactful having that vehicle has been to the team and the community. All the best, Jenna, Senior Research Coordinator, Population Sustainability The Institute Blog can be found at the link here: https://institute.sandiegozoo.org/science-blog/twiga-walinzi-vehicles-%E2%80%93-community-and-wildlife-lifeline About the Ocelots

enjoy a special relationship with San Diego Zoo Global. While having fun at many educational dinners and other special events at the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, Ocelots raise money to support the Ocelots Grants Program. Departments within the San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, and Institute for Conservation Research as well as conservation programs throughout SDZG are eligible to apply for these grants.

the ocelot, pictured above, the ocelot, pictured above, Diego was purchased for the Dafyd lived at the San Diego Zoo San Diego Zoo by the Ocelots in 2005. Safari Park in an enclosure funded by the Diego is a working member of the Ocelots in 2011. Education Department!