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June 29, 2005
CHRIS ISAAK PERFORMS JULY 15
Chris Isaak to play 'wicked games' at the Oregon Zoo

PORTLAND, Ore.-Only a few hundred tickets remain to see Chris Isaak perform at the Oregon Zoo with special guest Brandi Carlisle on Friday, July 15 as part of the Wells Fargo Summer Concert Series.

Isaak has been compared with Elvis and Roy Orbison ever since his song "Wicked Game" became a top ten hit in 1990 after being included in the David Lynch film "Wild at Heart." Not only does he look like the King, but his voice has the same soulful baritone. Yet he's also capable of shimmering falsettos, much like Orbison. His music imitates the melancholy sweep of Orbison songs like "Only the Lonely" and "Crying," but with a stripped-down feel reminiscent of Elvis at his Sun Studio best. All of this crystallized perfectly on his hit "Wicked Game," which sounds like a late-night tryst between "Only the Lonely" and "Are You Lonesome Tonight."

"Wicked Game" was Isaak's big break. It helped his album Heart Shaped World go platinum and established him as one of the most well respected musicians of the burgeoning adult contemporary genre. During the 90s Isaak continued to build his reputation with albums like San Francisco Days, Forever Blue, and Baja Sessions. But more recently his recording career has tapered off as he has focused more and more on acting. He continues to tour though, and has earned a loyal audience with his live performances. Come see why when he performs at the Oregon Zoo.

"Chris Isaak is always fun," said event coordinator Krista Swan. "His music will sound great outdoors on a beautiful summer evening."

The concert will feature a special appearance by Brandi Carlisle, who was voted the best singer-songwriter of 2004 by Seattle Weekly readers. In March she was named one of the top ten artists to watch this year by Rolling Stone. The chance to open for Isaak is a great opportunity for her, and a great chance for the zoo audience to hear her music.

The concert series helps to fund the zoo's condor conservation program, which has recently celebrated the third condor hatched in Oregon. Concertgoers can do even more to help save endangered species through the zoo's Future for Wildlife Fund by adding $1 to their ticket price.

Tickets for the Wells Fargo Summer Concert Series are available at TicketsWest (www.ticketswest.com, 800-992-TIXX, and Safeway outlets), and at the zoo with no service charge (no phone calls please). Tickets are valid at 4 p.m. and the concert begins at 7 p.m.

Wells Fargo has been sponsoring the summer concert series since 1996 as part of its community support activities. Earlier this year Northwest Business for Culture and the Arts honored Wells Fargo as the leading corporate supporter of arts and culture in Oregon in 2004.

The concert series is also sponsored by The Oregonian A&E with promotional support from Oregon Public Broadcasting.

To view the complete concert schedule, read the artists' biographies or purchase tickets (through TicketsWest), please visit www.oregonzoo.org. Gourmet concert picnics can be ordered by calling 503-525-4215.

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June 27, 2005
ZOOLALA BRINGS AN EVENING OF FUN AND ELEGANCE TO THE OREGON ZOO

PORTLAND, Ore.-The Oregon Zoo Foundation's summer gala, Zoolala: Big Mountain Boogie, is slated for Saturday, July 16, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. The sixth annual Zoolala, presented by Spirit Mountain Casino, features culinary delights from nearly 30 of Portland's premier restaurants, bakeries, breweries, wineries and coffee hosts, and live music from Hit Explosion. Proceeds from Big Mountain Boogie will go toward the new Black Bear Ridge exhibit at the zoo.

Several restaurants renewed their commitment to Zoolala 2005, including Ringside Steakhouse, Legends at Spirit Mountain, Timberline Lodge, Salty's on the Columbia, and Paragon Restaurant and Bar, while Hubers, The Old Spaghetti Factory, Beaverton Bakery and Espresso Volare! are entering their sixth year of participation. Zoolala will also feature newcomers Ruth's Chris Steak House, Urban Fondue, Southpark Seafood Grill & Wine Bar and A Simple Elegance Catering. For a complete list, please visit www.oregonzoo.org.

"One of the reasons Zoolala is the zoo's most successful fundraiser is because of these superb restaurants," said Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "Each year, I'm amazed by the creativity and quality of the food they serve."

The gala starts at 7 p.m., as Gate E opens to all ticket holders. Then, the restaurants open their booths, the wine is uncorked, the kegs are tapped and the party begins. The main music act starts at 7:30 p.m. with Hit Explosion.

Zoolala guests will also enjoy the opportunity to see some of the zoo's animals at night. In the front viewing area, adjacent to the main stage, the females (or cows) of the zoo's elephant herd will be munching on timothy hay and swaying to the feel-good tunes of Hit Explosion.

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June 27, 2005
ZOO ANIMALS GET PATRIOTIC ON FOURTH OF JULY

PORTLAND, Ore.-Even though they won't be able to wave sparklers and light bottle rockets on the Fourth of July, Oregon Zoo animals will still have the opportunity to celebrate with patriotic festivities.  Zookeepers will treat animals to edible holiday-themed goodies and surprises July 1 to celebrate Independence Day.  The lucky animals will be given star-shaped, brightly colored ice blocks with bits of their favorite foods tucked inside. The zoo's river otters will relish their treats at 10:45 a.m. and the polar bears will enjoy theirs at 11:05 a.m.

"Our Fourth of July enrichment activities are a great way to engage the animals," says Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "They're also fun to watch. These activities help visitors make a stronger emotional connection with animals so they care about the future of wildlife."
This is the third consecutive year that the zoo has organized Fourth of July enrichment treats for the animals.  The zoo is internationally renowned for its environmental enrichment programs, which are designed to mentally stimulate animals by changing their environment. Enrichment also challenges animals with complex tasks that require problem solving. Zookeepers are always looking for new and interesting ways to keep zoo animals engaged and active with enrichment activities.

On Monday, July 4, the zoo's bald eagle, the symbol of our nation, glides across the stage lawn just over the audience's heads during PGE's Discover Birds shows. The bald eagle flies during the noon, 1:30 p.m., and 3 p.m. shows. Two bald eagles can also be seen in the zoo's Eagle Canyon exhibit during regular zoo hours. Eagle Canyon, which opened last summer, is the world's first exhibit to feature free-flying bald eagles and salmon living together. The two eagles, Athena and Gladys, came to the zoo from rehabilitation centers in Alaska and Washington State. They were both deemed non-releasable, as they could not fly well enough to survive in the wild.

Visitors can get their own taste of Americana at the Cascade Grill, where apple pie will be served all weekend.

The zoo is a service of Metro and is dedicated to its mission to inspire the community to create a better future for wildlife. Committed to conservation, the zoo is currently working to save endangered California condors, Oregon silverspot butterflies, western pond turtles and Kincaid's lupine. Other projects include studies on black rhinos, Asian elephants, polar bears and bats.

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June 27, 2005
CHICAGO BLUES LEGENDS TURN THE ZOO BLUE
Chicago blues legends perform at Wells Fargo Summer Concert Series July 13 perform

PORTLAND, Ore.-The Chicago blues scene is famous for a reason. Some of the best blues musicians ever did their dirty work on Chicago's South Side. What started with patriarchs like Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf gave birth to a second generation of blues musicians that included luminaries like Paul Butterfield and Steve Miller. In the late 1960s, they helped bring Chicago blues to a mass audience. And now some of the musicians from that era have reunited to form the Chicago Blues Reunion, which stops in Portland on July 13 as part of the Wells Fargo Summer Concert Series at the Oregon Zoo.

The idea for the Chicago Blues Reunion began in Chicago back in 2004 with a limited number of performances, including one night at the legendary blues club Fitzgerald's. That concert was recorded and turned into "Buried Alive in the Blues," a document meant to celebrate that night, as well as the whole history of Chicago blues. The reunion proved to be so successful that its members decided to hit the road for a series of summer concerts, including a stop at the Oregon Zoo.

"Chicago Blues Reunion is the quintessential summer concert," said Krista Swan, event coordinator. "There's no blues like Chicago blues, and these are the guys that make it happen."

The reunion features celebrated musicians like Harvey Mandel, Nick Gravenites, Barry Goldberg, Sam Lay, Tracy Nelson, and Corky Siegel. Over the years they've worked with legendary figures like Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, and even the Rolling Stones. But while the big names received most of the attention, the Chicago Blues Reunion stars the musicians who made it possible. They helped create the historic transition in popular music from acoustic folk to electric blues-flavored rock. Their influence can be found all over the music of that era, and this tour gives them the chance to finally step into the spotlight.

Both keyboardist Barry Goldberg and drummer Sam Lay were part of Bob Dylan's band at the Newport Folk Festival in 1965 when Dylan went electric for the first time. Lay later recorded with Dylan on the legendary album Highway 61 Revisited, and played on other famous albums like Fathers and Sons by Muddy Waters and the self-titled debut of the Paul Butterfield Blues Band.

For his part, Barry Goldberg went on to form the Goldberg/Miller Blues Band with Steve Miller. It lasted for two years before Miller moved to San Francisco and Goldberg started The Electric Flag, a short-lived but legendary band, with another celebrated guitarist, Mike Bloomfield. Their band also included an up-and-coming songwriter named Nick Gravenites. Gravenites would go on to pen classic songs like "Born in Chicago" and "Buried Alive in the Blues," which Janis Joplin recorded the day before she died. A veritable Who's Who of blues and rock musicians have also recorded his songs, including Paul Butterfield, Elvin Bishop, and Charlie Musselwhite.

Musselwhite also worked with guitarist Harvey Mandel, another member of the reunion. After starting his career with Musselwhite, Mandel gained recognition as the lead guitarist for Canned Heat, who appeared at Woodstock in 1969. In the mid-70s he auditioned for the Rolling Stones. And although the band chose Ronnie Wood, Mandel worked with them long enough to contribute his unique licks to the song "Hot Stuff," which appeared on the 1976 album Black and Blue.

The reunion also features guest performances by songwriter Tracy Nelson and virtuoso harmonica player Corky Siegel. Nelson is best known as the lead singer of the band Mother Earth, but has been performing solo since 1972. Siegel, meanwhile, started the Siegel-Schwall Blues Band, which holds the distinction of being the first blues band to perform with a full symphony orchestra when it performed with the San Francisco Orchestra in 1968. Nelson and Siegel round out a great lineup for what promises to be a fantastic night of music at the zoo.    

Tickets for Chicago Blues Reunion (and all Wednesday "Plus" concerts) are available for $9.50 after 4 p.m. the day of the performance, include zoo admission and are subject to availability.

Zoo membership at the Plus level includes free admission to all Wednesday Plus concerts, daily visits to the zoo and the ZooLights holiday festival in the winter.

Concerts at the zoo help support the California condor conservation program. Concertgoers can do even more to help save endangered species through the zoo's Future For Wildlife Fund by adding $1 to their ticket price.

Wells Fargo has been sponsoring the summer concert series since 1996 as part of its community support activities. Earlier this year Northwest Business for Culture and the Arts honored Wells Fargo as the leading corporate supporter of arts and culture in Oregon in 2004. The concert series is also sponsored by The Oregonian A&E with support from Oregon Public Broadcasting.

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June 24, 2005
JOHN HIATT AND NORTH MISSISSIPPI ALLSTARS PERFORM JULY 9
Roots rock rocks the zoo when John Hiatt and North Mississippi Allstars perform

PORTLAND, Ore.-Come see roots rock at its very best when John Hiatt and the North Mississippi Allstars perform at the Oregon Zoo on Saturday, July 9 at 7 p.m. as part of the Wells Fargo Summer Concert Series. The concert offers the chance to see one of the best young bands in roots rock share the stage with one of the genre's most celebrated songwriters.  

"It's a great bill," said Krista Swan, event coordinator. "It's the past and present of roots rock on one stage."

John Hiatt has been at it for more than 30 years, recording 20 solo albums since his debut in 1974. The list of musicians who have covered his songs is as long as his career. It includes names like Bonnie Raitt, Ronnie Milsap, Dr. Feelgood, Iggy Pop, Three Dog Night, the Neville Brothers, and Bob Dylan. Hiatt also played with jazz great Ry Cooder in his band. But his commercial breakthrough had to wait until 1987 when Hiatt recorded Bring the Family with the help of Cooder and other friends. That album established his sound, one that drew from rock, country, blues, and folk. He followed it up with albums like Slow Turning and Stolen Moments that made him one of the most well respected roots rock musicians of the last decade. He is currently touring in support of his latest release, Master of Disaster.

Joining Hiatt on tour is the Grammy-nominated group The North Mississippi Allstars. The band is the brainchild of two brothers, Luther and Cody Dickinson, who did in fact grow up in northern Mississippi. Their father was Jim Dickinson, a staple of the Memphis music scene. The two brothers learned about roots music in the local area from their father, and formed the Allstars with bassist Chris Crew in 1996. But it wasn't until 2000 that the group released their debut album Shake Hands with Shorty. It was a fascinating amalgam of country-blues, trad-rock, and jam-band influences played with an alternative sensibility that shot them to stardom. Their sound is equal parts Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, Phish, and Mississippi Fred McDowell. They followed their debut with two more acclaimed albums, 51 Phantom and Polaris. The Allstars have also released a live album, Hill Country Revue, which captures their dynamic energy on stage. It's an energy that they will be bringing to the Oregon Zoo.

The concert series helps to fund the zoo's condor conservation program, which has recently celebrated the third condor hatched in Oregon. Concertgoers can do even more to help save endangered species through the zoo's Future for Wildlife Fund by adding $1 to their ticket price.

Tickets for the Wells Fargo Summer Concert Series are available at TicketsWest (www.ticketswest.com, 800-992-TIXX, and Safeway outlets), and at the zoo with no service charge (no phone calls please). Tickets are valid at 4 p.m. and the concert begins at 7 p.m.

Wells Fargo has been sponsoring the summer concert series since 1996 as part of its community support activities. Earlier this year Northwest Business for Culture and the Arts honored Wells Fargo as the leading corporate supporter of arts and culture in Oregon in 2004.

The concert series is also sponsored by The Oregonian A&E with support from Oregon Public Broadcasting.

To view the complete concert schedule, read the artists' biographies or purchase tickets (through TicketsWest), please visit www.oregonzoo.org. Gourmet concert picnics can be ordered by calling 503-525-4215.

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June 24, 2005
MOO AT THE ZOO EVENT JULY 9
Get your milk mustache ready and follow the trail to the Oregon Zoo's Family Farm

PORTLAND, Ore.-How many glasses of milk can a cow produce in one day? Find out the answer at Moo at the Zoo!  Come to the Oregon Zoo's Family Farm on Saturday, July 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to learn all about life on a farm. The event, sponsored by Dairy Farmers of Oregon, is an educational and fun experience for children of all ages.

"We hope families walk away from Moo at the Zoo with a stronger appreciation for life on a dairy farm and the importance of getting three servings of milk, cheese or yogurt each day," said Sheldon Pratt, CEO Dairy Farmers of Oregon. "We're thrilled to help families understand where their food comes from."

At Moo at the Zoo, guests can relax with a cold glass of chocolate milk provided by the Dairy Farmers of Oregon while viewing interactive exhibits and puppet shows that teach about cows and the nutritious products that they produce. The Oregon Dairy Princess is also making an appearance to take pictures with those people showing off their best milk mustaches. Lastly, guests can view pygora goats and Shetland sheep in the zoo's hands-on area.

"While the zoo does not exhibit cows in its Family Farm, Moo at the Zoo highlights the importance of farm animals in our lives, from the milk we drink to the yogurt we eat and even cheese on pizza," said Charis Henrie, the zoo's education coordinator.
Moo at the Zoo is free with zoo admission.

Dairy Farmers of Oregon is one of 28 state commodity commissions in Oregon, responsible for the marketing, promotion and nutrition education of milk and dairy foods on behalf of the 350 dairy farm families in Oregon.

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June 23, 2005
OREGON ZOO ANNOUNCES 2005 WEDNESDAY NIGHT CONCERTS

PORTLAND, Ore.-Twilight fades, darkness descends, and a warm breeze blows across the lawn. Spectators are spread out on the grass while the band keeps busy on stage. Children dance and parents laugh, hamburgers cook on the grill. And someone, somewhere in the audience thinks: This is better than watching reruns of "The King of Queens." What will you be doing on Wednesday nights this summer?

There's no reason to stay at home when the Oregon Zoo is hosting a series of "Plus" concerts each Wednesday starting July 6 as part of the Wells Fargo Summer Concert Series. In July alone the zoo will host Grammy-winning Ladysmith Black Mambazo (July 6), the Chicago Blues Reunion (July 13), zydeco star Rosie Ledet (July 20), and harmonica virtuoso Norton Buffalo with his band the Knockouts (July 27). Then in August, the Wednesday series will feature Haitian chanteuse Emeline Michel (Aug. 3), 60s icon Jesse Winchester (Aug. 10), country revivalists Asleep at the Wheel (Aug. 17), singer-songwriter Karla Bonoff (Aug. 24), and cowboy act Wylie & the Wild West (Aug. 31).

This eclectic lineup has one thing in common-tickets for the Wednesday concerts cost only $9.50. Tickets go on sale at the zoo after 4 p.m. on the day of the show, include zoo admission and are subject to availability.

Zoo membership at the Plus level includes free admission to all Wednesday Plus concerts, daily visits to the zoo and the ZooLights holiday festival in the winter.

Concerts at the zoo help support the California condor conservation program. Concertgoers can do even more to help save endangered species through the zoo's Future For Wildlife Fund by adding $1 to their ticket price.

Wells Fargo has been sponsoring the summer concert series since 1996 as part of its community support activities. Earlier this year Northwest Business for Culture and the Arts honored Wells Fargo as the leading corporate supporter of arts and culture in Oregon in 2004. The concert series is also sponsored by The Oregonian A&E with support from Oregon Public Broadcasting.

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June 23, 2005
ORGANIC POND TURTLE RELEASE PARTY JUNE 25
Roots Organic Brewing Company celebrates Oregon Zoo's release of rare northwest turtles to wild

PORTLAND, Ore.-Drink a beer, save a turtle? People of all ages are invited to attend the Organic Pond Turtle Pale Ale Release Party on Saturday, June 25 from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. The event, hosted by Roots Organic Brewing Company at 1520 SE 7th Avenue in Portland, includes a barbecue, live music, and a raffle. Information about western pond turtles and their habitat is also featured at the turtle release party.

As leaders in the organic brewing movement, Roots Organic Brewing supports environmental stewardship locally and nationally, while working with other brewers to maintain an involvement in local conservation efforts. Future labels will highlight other ongoing conservation projects at the Oregon Zoo.

According to Roots Organic Brewing Co-owner and Brewmeister Craig Nicholls, the Organic Pond Turtle Pale Ale, which he describes as a "medium-bodied ale with a low to medium malt flavor," is the first step towards the company's long-term commitment to conservation efforts.

The re-introduction of the western pond turtles into the wild is part of a collaborative effort among Oregon Zoo, Woodland Park Zoo, Bonneville Power Administration, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. As part of the Western Pond Turtle Recovery Project, conservation scientists at both zoos "head start" newly hatched turtles gathered from wild sites, nurturing them at both zoos for about 10 months. Once they reach a suitable size of about 70 grams (a little more than two ounces), they are returned to the Columbia River Gorge and monitored for safety.

The Oregon Zoo did this year's annual release of western pond turtles into the Gorge in early June. Fifty-two turtles were released.

"I think the Oregon Zoo and Roots Organic Brewing partnership is a good fit because of the company's dedication to organic products," said Oregon Zoo Director Tony Vecchio. "Conservation awareness needs to go beyond the usual venues to reach everyone."

Proceeds from the Organic Pond Turtle Pale Ale Release Party and 20 percent of future Pond Turtle Pale Ale sales will be donated to support the Future for Wildlife Program at the Oregon Zoo.  The Future for Wildlife Program involves collaborations dedicated to promoting survival of local and international endangered wildlife.

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June 20, 2005
MOVE OVER PACKY, THERE'S A NEW BULL IN TOWN
PORTLAND, Ore.-With no small amount of trumpeting and fanfare-on the part of the elephants, that is-the Oregon Zoo welcomed a new addition to its elephant herd today.

Tusko, a 13,500-pound, 33-year-old male Asian elephant, arrived at 6 a.m. and joined Packy and Rama in the zoo's bull elephant group. Upon completion of his required quarantine period, Tusko will make his first public appearance in Oregon in about one month.

According to his California trainers, Tusko is mild-mannered and works well with people, having mastered his training for routine veterinary procedures. He has sired three calves: two while living in Canada, and one in California.

The zoo hopes Tusko and Sung-Surin (Thai name meaning "Sunshine"), a 22-year-old female, will eventually breed.

Statistically, if Sung-Surin doesn't get pregnant by the time she turns 25, according to Mike Keele, deputy director, the odds are against her becoming pregnant beyond that. "If she does have a successful pregnancy, she can continue to be reproductively viable into her fifties-as is the case with her mom, Pet," added Keele.

"The birth of a new baby is the most enriching thing that can happen in an elephant herd," said Keele, who also serves as the Asian elephant Species Survival Plan Coordinator for the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA). "Sung-Surin will become a mother, Pet will become a grandmother, and the other female elephants will become 'aunties.' It's important that we do this now, while Sung-Surin is still able to have calves, and while Pet is still able to help her learn how to be a good mother," he added.

No Asian elephant calves have been born at the Oregon Zoo since the 1994 birth of Rose Tu. "All of Portland celebrated with us when Rose Tu was born, but nobody was happier than the zoo's elephant herd," commented Keele. "The arrival of a new calf is always an exciting and joyous occasion for the elephants and zoo staff."

An endangered species, Asian elephants are represented by an estimated 38,000-51,000 individuals living in fragmented populations in the wild. Agriculture, deforestation, and conflict with humans pose a constant threat to wild Asian elephants.

The AZA, of which the Oregon Zoo is a member, strives to maintain a sustainable population of the endangered elephants in North America. Currently, birth rates are lower than necessary to do so.

"This is very important, because these animals are so endangered," commented Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "There is a chance our children's children will never see a live elephant. We want to prevent that from happening."

Tusko will contribute to the genetic diversity, and perhaps the eventual survival, of the Asian elephant population in North America.

Sung-Surin is the daughter of Packy, the first elephant born at the Oregon Zoo, and Pet, the matriarch of the zoo's elephant herd.

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June 17, 2005
SWING INTO SUMMER AT THE OREGON ZOO

PORTLAND, Ore.-While summer does not officially begin until June 21, the zoo's summer season is already in high gear. With a sizzling lineup of concerts, camps, exhibits and animals, there is something for everyone at the zoo this summer.

The much-anticipated return of the Winged Wonders butterfly exhibit has visitors enjoying the delicate creatures once again. The temporary exhibit, which made its first appearance at the zoo during the summer of 2002, was not in operation last year due to the construction of Eagle Canyon and Trillium Creek Family Farm. Winged Wonders, which requires an additional admission charge of $2, is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Several new babies have joined the zoo population since last summer, including a colobus monkey, vibrant lorikeets and endangered penguin chicks. The penguin chicks are just beginning to venture from their nest boxes to join their parents for refreshing swims. A six-foot Nile monitor has also become a member of the zoo's family of animals.

Kids young and old can dive into Bikini Bottom for an adventure with Nickelodeon's™ SpongeBob SquarePants on the zoo's newest thrill ride, SpongeBob SquarePants-The Ride. The amusing feature, produced by Nickelodeon/Paramount Parks Inc. and distributed by SimEx-Iwerks, runs through Labor Day and requires an additional fee of $4.50 ($4 for members).

While new exhibits, animals and thrill rides are exciting, there are also familiar favorites that never stop entertaining. Clyde, the turkey vulture, and Chinook, the bald eagle, lead PGE's Discover Birds! These birds, along with owls, hawks and other amazing birds, are featured in free flight on the zoo's concert lawn. Bird shows are held daily at noon, 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.

New to the popular PGE program are Luna the great horned owl and Pele, a beautiful blue and gold macaw. These new feathered friends join the zoo's popular raptors such as eagles, hawks, owls, vultures, and falcons. Other birds include a raven, cockatoo, ibis, stork and ducks. The birds exhibit natural behaviors during the shows, including flying low over the audience, eating (artificial) carrion and hunting in flight.

The Little Zoo, which introduces young children to the animal world with a hands-on experience, returns to Trillium Creek Family Farm. Small animals such as rabbits, ducks and snakes will be on display daily.

Pygmy and Nigerian dwarf goats will be available for petting at the African Goat Kraal in the savanna exhibit. The small, lovable creatures are always very active and can be seen playing and eating all summer long.

The zoo's trains are ready for the rush of train enthusiasts who ride the rails each summer. The Oregon Steamer-the zoo's historic steam train-will run on the following weekends this summer: Father's Day (June 18-19) and Labor Day (Sept. 3-5). The train ride costs an additional $3 for the four-mile journey through Washington Park. The Oregon Express and Zooliner will be in service every day all summer.

The Wells Fargo Summer Concert Series boasts a great lineup of concerts, including John Hiatt (July 9), Chris Isaak (July 15), Indigo Girls (July 17), Marc Cohn / Suzanne Vega (July 22), Bruce Hornsby (July 29), Gipsy Kings (August 6), Los Lonely Boys (August 11), Pink Martini (August 14), and Susan Tedeschi/Blind Boys of Alabama (August 26). Performances take place on the Oregon Zoo's park-like concert lawn, Portland's premier outdoor venue for popular music since 1979.

Tickets are now on sale for the zoo's largest annual fundraiser and Portland's social event of the season. Zoolala: Big Mountain Boogie will take place on Saturday, July 16 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.  This summer gala features culinary delights from more than 35 of Portland's premier restaurants, bakeries, wineries, breweries and coffee hosts. Enjoy the finest fare from restaurants like Ringside Steakhouse, Mint, Stephanie Inn Dining Room, and Wayfarer Restaurant, while sipping on glasses of wine from Willamette Valley, Stone Wolf Vineyards and Valley Wine Company and craft beer from Full Sail Brewing, Widmer Brothers Brewing and Portland Brewing Company. Proceeds from this year's Zoolala will help bring black bear to the Great Northwest exhibit.

For visitors interested in getting more information on their favorite animals, Keeper Talks are presented nine times daily at various zoo exhibits. At scheduled times, zookeepers provide short presentations and answer questions about animals in their care.
ZooGuide volunteers provide visitors with short informational presentations and answer questions about zoo animals during Animal Talks. They are available on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For the zoo's green-thumbed visitors, Habitat Happenings will be held on Wednesdays and Fridays at 10:45 a.m. The zoo's horticulture staff will be on hand to provide information on the thousands of plants in the zoo's many gardens.

The stars will be out for Tide Pool Naturalists at the Steller Cove exhibit. Sea stars, crabs, and sea cucumbers are among the many featured creatures visitors can learn more about from zoo volunteers stationed here daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.  

Slots are still available for Zoo Camp-the popular summer camp program, which celebrates its 21st anniversary this year. Four-year-old youngsters through high school-aged teens can explore and discover the wonders of the zoo through hands-on, interactive, experiential learning. Registration forms are available at www.oregonzoo.org.

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June 17, 2005
PACKY PROUD TO BE OREGON ZOO'S 2005 FATHER OF THE YEAR

PORTLAND, Ore.-Packy, the beloved Asian elephant of the Oregon Zoo, has taken home the 2005 title of Zoo Father of the Year. It was a tight race, but Packy pulled ahead to win with 61 votes; Kiku the colobus monkey was a close second with 54; and Mandan the California condor came in third with 23.

Because the race was so tight, both Packy and Kiku will receive special treats today. Packy will receive some of his favorite food items at 1:30 p.m., while Kiku receives his treats a little earlier at 1 p.m. The zoo won't forget Mandan the condor. He'll receive special food items at the zoo's off-site Jonsson Center for Wildlife Conservation in Clackamas County.

The Zoo Father of the Year award is special for the pachyderm clan because Packy is the only second-generation captive bull elephant in the world to become a successful father. Two of his offspring, Rama and Sung-Surin, still live with him at the zoo. On the occasions that Packy and his daughter Sung-Surin interact, it is apparent that the two enjoy each other's company.

Oregon Zoo Director Tony Vecchio viewed the Zoo Father of the Year vote as an opportunity to educate the public about Asian elephants, California condors and colobus monkeys, which are all either threatened or endangered.

"Once people make an emotional connection with an animal, they're much more likely to care about the future of that species," said Vecchio. "This on-line vote has helped bring attention to the plight of these animals."

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June 15, 2005
OREGON ZOO ZOOMS IN ON BUTTERFLIES

PORTLAND, Ore.-All eyes and lenses will be focused on stunning zebra swallowtails, buckeyes, and blue morphos during Oregon Zoo's Photo Ops with Butterflies. This new series of photography classes, sponsored by Pro Photo Supply, offers tips and tricks for everyone - from the novice photographer to the seasoned veteran.

Four photo classes offer eye-to-eye encounters with more than 450 stunning butterflies, and the techniques of how to capture them in the perfect picture.

- Butterfly Photography for Everyone allows early entrance to the butterfly exhibit and a self-guided photo safari. Participants bring their own cameras and go at their own pace. Available dates: 6/18, 7/15, 7/23, 8/12, 8/27, and 9/3 from 8 a.m. - 10 a.m. Cost: $22, members $18.

- Butterflies for Beginning & Intermediate Photographers allows early entrance into the butterfly exhibit where Pro Photo Supply staff share basic camera and photography techniques. Available dates: 6/20, 7/9, 7/29, 8/6, 8/19, and 9/10 from 8 a.m. - 10 a.m. Cost: $30, members $25.

- Butterfly Photography with a Pro allows participants to learn tricks of the trade for great shots from Oregon Zoo's staff photographer, Michael Durham. Pro Photo Supply staff are on hand to answer technical questions. Participants must bring their own film or digital SLR camera, and macro lens and flash are recommended. Available dates: 6/25 and 8/13 from 8 a.m. - 10 a.m. Cost: $40, members $35.

- Digital Butterfly Photography with Experts is a two-part workshop with Oregon Zoo's staff photographer, Michael Durham. Nikon technical representatives are on hand to demonstrate the latest digital equipment and help participants with their own digital camera for a two-hour private photo shoot. Part two of the workshop is spent with Pro Photo Supply staff exploring the mysteries of ink jet printing and color managed workflow, while also incorporating images from the butterfly exhibit. Participants can bring their own digital SLR camera or use one of the latest Nikon digital models. Macro lens and flash are recommended. Available dates: 7/19 and 7/26 from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Cost: $100 (cost includes lunch), members $85.

Advance registration is required for all classes. To register and to print off special coupons from Pro Photo Supply, visit http://www.oregonzoo.org/Education/adults/adults_photography.htm. For more information, contact the education registrar by phone at 503-220-2781 or by e-mail at moddet@metro.dst.or.us. 

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June 15, 2005
THE NOCTURNAL FOREST BRINGS NIGHTLIFE TO LIGHT

PORTLAND, Ore.-What goes on in the forest at night? A new photo display at the Oregon Zoo offers a rare glimpse into the nighttime activities of wild animals in the forests of the Pacific Northwest.

Titled "The Nocturnal Forest," the display captures bobcats, bears, bats, deer, coyotes, cougars and all sorts of smaller forest creatures who are only active at night. While most humans are sleeping, these animals are busy hunting, hiding, and foraging. They are adapted to the shadowy world deep inside the forest that is inaccessible and largely invisible to humans at night.

Oregon Zoo photographer Michael Durham took the vivid color photos using an elaborate camera system that he devised. Durham set up as many as three cameras in his chosen locations that were activated by remote triggers and left in the forest for up to three months. The photos that he captured relied on a mixture of chance, skill, and patience. But unlike most nocturnal forest photography, the images are completely authentic and wild.
"With modern nature photography, it's not unusual to 'stage' an image, or fake it using tame animals. But all of these images were made in the wild at night," said Durham.

One camera at a location near Hell's Canyon had been set up for six weeks before being triggered by a cougar that passed within three feet of the lens. Another camera captured a field mouse at the exact moment that it jumped into the air to avoid an attacking owl.   
The display includes information about the ways that different animals have adapted to being active at night. Some nocturnal animals like the bobcat have developed eyes with vertical pupils that let in more light. The barn owl not only has specially adapted eyes but also ears that are placed asymmetrically on either side of the head, giving it the ability to triangulate sounds to find the precise location of its prey. But the most specialized nocturnal creature is probably the bat, which emits pulses of ultrasonic waves that echo back like radar.

The photos continue Durham's interest in recording the "unseen" natural world that would otherwise remain hidden. His work has appeared in BBC Wildlife, National Geographic for Kids, Nature Conservancy Magazine, Popular Photography, and many other publications.
The display is currently on view in the atrium of the primate building at the Oregon Zoo and will remain there through the summer of 2005.    

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June 13, 2005
PGE DISCOVER BIRDS DAY TAKES FLIGHT JUNE 18 AT OREGON ZOO
New birds Luna, the great horned owl, and Pele, a beautiful blue and gold macaw parrot make their debut

PORTLAND, Ore.-Calling all bird lovers!  Flock to the PGE Discover Birds Day at the Oregon Zoo, Saturday, June 18 for the kick-off PGE's Discover Birds! summer shows, which run June 18-Sept. 5.

New to the popular PGE program, Luna the great horned owl and Pele, a beautiful blue and gold macaw, will make their debut.  These new feathered friends will be highlighted along with raptors such as eagles, hawks, owls, vultures, and falcons. Other birds include a raven, cockatoo, ibis, and stork, as well as ducks.  Each show is 20 minutes and will perform daily at 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3 p.m. PGE Discover Birds shows run June 18 through Sept. 5 and are free with zoo admission.

"The Discover Birds shows are a wonderful way to introduce children of all ages to the power of these magnificent birds," says Shannon LaMonica, bird show coordinator.  "They also learn about the birds' natural histories and how to preserve the habitat where birds live in the wild."  LaMonica says audiences really appreciate the chance to come the stage to view the birds up close, take pictures and ask questions.

Between shows, be sure to stop by the PGE Discover Birds Activity Center near the Primates area to enjoy a variety of fun family-friendly activities:

- Meet Larry the Lightbulb from PGE at 11 a.m., 12:45 p.m. and 2:15 p.m.
- Enter to win a behind-the-scenes tour of the mews - that's where the birds live between shows
- Enjoy air-brush face painting and art activities for kids
- Learn about green power and sign up for PGE's renewable power options
- Pick up a free bag of bird seed while supplies last
- Visit the Audubon Society to learn how to protect native birds
- Get a $2 off "return flight" coupon if you're a PGE customer who brings their May issue of the PGE Update newsletter.

"Discover Birds Day is our company's way of giving our customers and the community a unique opportunity to learn about wildlife and their natural habitat in an interactive way," said Carol Dillin, PGE's vice president of Public Policy. "We believe our long-standing commitment to education and environmental stewardship programs at the zoo and throughout the region will help instill a strong environmental ethic in our young people now and for generations to come."  

PGE has sponsored the zoo's Discover Birds show since 1986, paid for construction of the zoo's energy efficient and environmentally friendly bird mews, made improvement to the HVAC system in the Penguinarium, and even supported construction of the zoo's off-site condor breeding facility.

"Portland General Electric has been a great friend to the zoo," said Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "As you look around the grounds, you'll see special programs, and even buildings, that are here because of PGE's strong support."

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June 9, 2005
ANIMAL DADS COMPETE FOR ZOO FATHER OF THE YEAR

PORTLAND, Ore.-It's time for dads to take center stage and the Oregon Zoo wants your help in choosing the Zoo Father of the Year for 2005. Kiku the colobus monkey, Mandan the California condor and Packy the Asian elephant are this year's honored contenders. An on-line ballot located at www.oregonzoo.org features photos and short biographies of the three candidates.

"We just finished a campaign for Zoo Mother of the Year, and found it was a fun way to initiate a relationship between the public and the highlighted animals," said Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "As the public reads about the nominees, which are either threatened or endangered, we hope they'll come to understand and care about the challenges facing these species and others."

On-line votes will be accepted until 9 a.m. Friday, June 17. The zoo will announce the 2005 Zoo Father of the Year later that morning.

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June 6, 2005
ENDANGERED TURTLES PREPARED FOR RELEASE IN COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE
Multi-agency effort to restore part of Northwest ecosystem

PORTLAND, Ore.-Oregon Zoo and Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) will prepare 52 endangered western pond turtles (Clemmys marmorata marmorata)-a species on the verge of extinction in Washington a decade ago-for return back to the wild. The turtles begin their bon voyage at Oregon Zoo's Cascade Streams exhibit, where they have spent the last nine months growing large enough to avoid being eaten by non-native bullfrogs and large-mouth bass, threats that have decimated the species.

The re-introduction of the western pond turtles into the wild is part of a collaborative effort among Oregon Zoo, Woodland Park Zoo, BPA, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). As part of the Western Pond Turtle Recovery Project, conservation scientists at these organizations "head start" newly hatched turtles gathered from wild sites, nurturing them at both zoos for about 10 months. Once they reach a suitable size of about 70 grams (a little more than two ounces), they are returned to their homes and monitored for safety.

"Giving young turtles a head start during the first months of their lives gives them a real edge," explains Dr. David Shepherdson, Oregon Zoo conservation program scientist. "Woodland Park Zoo and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife have been working to save Washington's western pond turtles for 13 years. We're glad that we could provide additional assistance in helping save these highly endangered turtles."

There are more turtles to release this year than ever before, due mainly to the high rate of success in the field. Scientists have done most previous releases in July, but this year's group has been cleared for an earlier release by Dr. Shepherdson.

This year BPA is providing $5,000 to help support the zoo's western pond turtle conservation efforts through the Northwest Power and Conservation Council's Fish and Wildlife Program. The Council's Program is responsible for recommending projects to mitigate for the impacts of the Federal Columbia River Power System on fish and wildlife.  

"BPA is pleased to be a part of an effort to restore the Western pond turtle, an important wildlife species of the Northwest ecosystem," said Greg Delwiche, vice president of BPA's Office of Environment, Fish and Wildlife. "This year's encouraging numbers demonstrate that the region's investment in this program is paying off."   

Just one decade ago, western pond turtles were on the verge of completely dying out in Washington, with only 150 turtles left in the wild.  Today, researchers estimate that there are between 950 and 1,000 turtles in Washington. Habitat degradation and disease were, and still are, problems, but the biggest threat to fragile baby turtles is the bullfrog. Found east of the Rockies, this non-indigenous frog has thrived throughout the west, driving pond turtles and a host of other small, vulnerable aquatic species to the brink of extinction.

To help restore these rare turtles to their natural habitat, recovery workers take to the field each year. Under the supervision of western pond turtle expert Kate Slavens, they count, trap and fit transmitters on adult female western pond turtles. The female turtles are monitored every two hours during the nesting season in order to determine where they nest. The nests, which the females dig in the ground and then cover after depositing their eggs, are protected with wire "exclosure" cages that help prevent predators from eating the eggs. The eggs are then allowed to incubate naturally, and the hatchlings are collected in the fall. The hatchlings are about the size of a quarter when they are removed and taken to the zoo facilities, where they can grow in safety. Unlike wild turtles, zoo turtles are fed throughout the winter, so by their summer release, the 10-month-olds are approximately as big as three-year-old turtles.

Some of the juvenile turtles are equipped with radio transmitters before release so biologists can learn more about post-release dispersal, habitat use during active and hibernation periods, and, ultimately, their survival rate. Scientists tracking the released turtles estimate that 95 percent of the turtles released back to the Columbia River Gorge have survived. In 2004, a bumper crop of 29 turtle nests was located in the wild. The eggs hatched in September and the hatchlings were brought to Woodland Park Zoo and the Oregon Zoo for head-starting.

Now listed as an endangered species in Washington and a sensitive species in Oregon, the western pond turtle was once common from Baja, California to Puget Sound. The Oregon Zoo's participation in the western pond turtle project is funded through The Oregon Zoo Foundation's Future for Wildlife Conservation Fund.

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June 6, 2005
PGE DISCOVER BIRDS DAY TAKES FLIGHT JUNE 18 AT OREGON ZOO
New birds Luna, the great horned owl, and Pele, a beautiful blue and gold macaw parrot make their debut

PORTLAND, Ore.-Calling all bird lovers!  Flock to the PGE Discover Birds Day at the Oregon Zoo, Saturday, June 18 for the kick-off PGE’s Discover Birds summer shows, which run June 18-Sept. 5.

New to the popular PGE program, Luna the great horned owl and Pele, a beautiful blue and gold macaw, will make their debut.  These new feathered friends will be highlighted along with raptors such as eagles, hawks, owls, vultures, and falcons. Other birds include a raven, cockatoo, ibis, and stork, as well as ducks.  Each show is 20 minutes and will perform daily at 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3 p.m. PGE Discover Birds shows run June 18 through Sept. 5 and are free with zoo admission.

"The Discover Birds shows are a wonderful way to introduce children of all ages to the power of these magnificent birds," says Shannon LaMonica, bird show coordinator.  "They also learn about the birds' natural histories and how to preserve the habitat where birds live in the wild." LaMonica says audiences really appreciate the chance to come the stage to view the birds up close, take pictures and ask questions.

Between shows, be sure to stop by the PGE Discover Birds Activity Center near the Primates area to enjoy a variety of fun family-friendly activities:

-Meet Larry the Lightbulb from PGE at 11 a.m., 12:45 p.m. and 2:15 p.m.

-Enter to win a behind-the-scenes tour of the mews — that’s where the birds live between shows

-Enjoy air-brush face painting and art activities for kids

-Learn about green power and sign up for PGE ’s renewable power options

-Pick up a free bag of bird seed while supplies last

-Visit the Audubon Society to learn how to protect native birds

-Get a $2 off "return flight" coupon if you’re a PGE customer who brings their May issue of the PGE Update newsletter.

"Discover Birds Day is our company’s way of giving our customers and the community a unique opportunity to learn about wildlife and their natural habitat in an interactive way," said Carol Dillin, PGE's vice president of Public Policy. "We believe our long-standing commitment to education and environmental stewardship programs at the zoo and throughout the region will help instill a strong environmental ethic in our young people now and for generations to come."

PGE has sponsored the zoo's Discover Birds show since 1986, paid for construction of the zoo's energy efficient and environmentally friendly bird mews, made improvement to the HVAC system in the Penguinarium, and even supported construction of the zoo's off-site condor breeding facility.

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