Oregon Zoo - Portland, OR - www.oregonzoo.org
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Oregon Zoo - Portland, OR - www.oregonzoo.org |
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Press
Kits: Press
Releases: NOTE: Dates indicate date of press release, not the date of the event.
December
29, 2006 PORTLAND, Ore. -- Word that the Bush administration had proposed listing polar bears as "threatened" under the Endangered Species Act, brought a late Christmas gift to staff at the Oregon Zoo. The zoo has spoken out on the plight of polar bears and the need for federal protection for several years, most recently in an October press release. "Listing polar bears under the Endangered Species Act would be very significant," said David Shepherdson, zoo conservation scientist. "It would be the first time that a United States animal was officially recognized as being in danger of extinction because of global warming." The Oregon Zoo and other conservation organizations have been increasingly alarmed about the effects of global warming on polar bears. Over the past 25 years, the summer sea-ice melt period has lengthened, and the summer sea-ice cover has declined by more than a half million square miles. Polar bears' diet consists almost exclusively of seals, even though they are not aquatic animals; the bears' only access to seals is from the surface of the sea ice. Because of their dependence upon the sea ice, temperature changes directly affect the carrying capacity of the Arctic for polar bears. According to Shepherdson, the Arctic region is probably the most sensitive area right now, but increasingly the effects of global warming will be felt worldwide, and wildlife will be among the first casualties. Shepherdson cautions that listing polar bears as "threatened" will not guarantee their survival into the next century. But it will provide funding and legislation to help reduce short-term threats to the bears, such as hunting and den-site disturbance, while the bigger problem of climate change is tackled on a global scale. "We all can do something to help," encouraged Shepherdson. "We can use less energy by driving less and using more efficient cars, and supporting legislation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions." The polar bears at the Oregon Zoo are insulated against these problems, but more than ever the zoo recognizes their importance as ambassadors of a threatened ecosystem. "Global warming is the theme of our 2007 Wildlife Conservation Lecture Series at the zoo, which begins in January, and 2008 is the Year of the Polar Bear," said Shepherdson. "We will continue to remind the public of what we stand to lose." December
28, 2006
PORTLAND, Ore. - After six years of trial and error, the Oregon Zoo's successful breeding efforts may help bring North America's smallest rabbit back from the brink of extinction. This March, the zoo will release 12 of Washington state's pygmy rabbits into the wild. This will be the first introduction of the endangered rabbits into their natural habitat since their removal for emergency captive breeding. "This tiny rabbit is a big success story," says Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "Collaborating with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Washington State University and Northwest Trek, we've worked tirelessly to help save Washington's endangered pygmy rabbits from certain extinction." Since 2000, the Oregon Zoo has worked to save pygmy rabbits through captive breeding. During this year's breeding season, the zoo had a record number of births, with 32 kits. "These rabbits, like most endangered species, have the odds stacked against them," says Michael Illig, assistant curator in charge of the zoo's rabbit program. Washington's Columbia Basin is geographically isolated from other pygmy rabbit populations, which makes inbreeding a problem. A lack of genetic diversity affects the number of successful litters when pygmy rabbits breed each spring and summer. Their diet consists primarily of sagebrush, which is becoming scarce in eastern Washington. Finally, wildfire is a constant threat to their habitat. In 2002, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service allotted $1.3 million for the acquisition of 7,900 acres of habitat for the pygmy rabbit. Since then the WDFW has developed native seed sources for habitat restoration. The rabbits' release will take place near unoccupied, existing burrows or artificial burrows. Initially, the WDFW will provide protection from predators. "By keeping the rabbits safe during their introduction -- a time when they are especially vulnerable to predators -- we can help their chances of surviving in the wild," says Illig. "The progress of the rabbits will be tracked through radio transmitters, so we can monitor everything from their movement to reproduction." The Oregon Zoo's involvement with pygmy breeding began when Idaho pygmy rabbits arrived at the zoo in December 2000. Zoo staff constructed behind-the-scenes habitats full of loose soil, with tubes to serve as hiding places for the reclusive rabbits. They also constructed nest boxes fitted with infrared video cameras to monitor the rabbits' behavior. Using video recorders, scientists studied their activity patterns exhaustively, learning subtle behavioral nuances. In 2001, the research paid off, as the Oregon Zoo became the first zoo in the world to successfully breed Idaho pygmy rabbits. Thereafter, the zoo bred the endangered Washington pygmy rabbit. With breeding protocols established, the zoo shared its research with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. The protocols helped WDFW develop its pygmy rabbit breeding facility at Washington State University in Pullman. "In the past, zoos have spread their conservation efforts all over the world, particularly in tropical areas," says Vecchio. "While these efforts have been extremely important, there has been a tendency to ignore our own backyards. At the Oregon Zoo, we feel that efforts in our own region will prove to be the most effective way to engage our visitors and constituents in conservation actions." Today the Oregon Zoo is home to 54 pygmy rabbits, including two full-blooded Washington pygmy rabbits: Lolo and Bryn. The smallest rabbit native to North America, the pygmy rabbit is the only rabbit to dig burrows and reside in a sagebrush habitat. (Jackrabbits, which also reside in sagebrush communities, are actually hares, not rabbits.) In 1993, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife listed the Columbia Basin pygmy rabbit as an endangered species. Following a steady population decline, in 2002, the WDFW enacted an emergency recovery program, finding less than 20 rabbits in the entire state. December
27, 2006
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Some say global warming isn't an issue, but in the past 50 years, average temperatures in Alaska, western Canada and eastern Russia have climbed by as much as 4 to 7 degrees Fahrenheit (3 to 4 degrees Celsius). Worldwide, temperatures have risen by about 1 degree (0.6 C) in the past 100 years. The changing climate is affecting animals as large as polar bears and as small as butterflies - and rising ocean levels threaten coastal populations. Scientists will discuss climate change at the Oregon Zoo as part of the Wildlife Conservation Lecture Series, sponsored by Pro Photo Supply, Shiels Obletz Johnsen and New Belgium Brewing. "This series helps bring attention to this critical global issue," said Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "The biggest threat wildlife faces is the world's dramatic warming. We're already seeing it with polar bear deaths due to the melting sea ice in the arctic. Without sea ice, the bears just can't survive. Each one of these lecturers will give us a glimpse of what our future may be like if we don't act to curtail greenhouse gases." On Jan. 30, Peter U. Clark, from Oregon State's department of geosciences, lectures on the causes and effects of global warming. Climate models suggest that warming over the past few decades can only be explained by the known increase in greenhouse gas concentrations. Global warming will impact glaciers and ice sheets, global sea level, species distribution and extinctions, and the frequency and intensity of droughts, heat waves and possibly hurricanes. On Feb. 27, Steven C. Amstrup, research wildlife biologist with the Alaska Science Center, discusses polar bears in decline due to dramatic climate change. Though their diet consists almost exclusively of seals, polar bears are not aquatic; their only access to seals is from the surface of the sea ice. Over the past 25 years, the summer sea-ice melt period has lengthened, and the summer sea-ice cover has declined by more than a half million square miles. Because of their dependence upon the sea ice, these changes directly affect whether Arctic polar bears will live or die. Ongoing studies are aimed at understanding polar bears' movement patterns in response to changing ice conditions. On March 27, Jessica J. Hellmann, assistant professor of biological sciences at Notre Dame, addresses the impact of global warming on insects, which are extremely useful for investigating the responses of biodiversity to climate change. Hellmann discusses her current studies of butterflies on the West Coast. Findings so far show that species respond differently to climate change based on their ecology, evolutionary history and characteristics. Hellmann poses the question, "Should we be optimistic or pessimistic about the future of species with which we share our planet? "The motivation for this series is the hope that community knowledge will be raised in the areas of wildlife conservation, environmental problems and ecological systems. Pro Photo Supply, Shiels Obletz Johnsen and New Belgium Brewing present the series, which is hosted by the Audubon Society of Portland, the Oregon Zoo and the World Forestry Center. Lectures are held in the Oregon Zoo's Banquet Center and begin at 7 p.m. The cost for each lecture is $10 for nonmembers and $8 for members of host organizations, students or seniors. December
26, 2006 PORTLAND, Ore. -- The Oregon Zoo's Wells Fargo Summer Concert Series presented by Fred Meyer attracted 61,255 visitors this year and helped generate $409,345. Net proceeds from the concert series, which ran June 21 to Aug. 23, help support the zoo's conservation programs, including efforts to save local threatened and endangered species. "Through Wells Fargo and Fred Meyer's generous support, the zoo can bring nationally renowned musicians like Chris Isaak, Etta James and Bruce Hornsby to Portland," said Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "Our concert revenues help support the zoo's conservation programs like rearing western pond turtles, Washington pygmy rabbits and Oregon silverspot butterflies for release back into the wild." The zoo has a long history of hosting summer concerts and was the first zoo in the nation to host a summer concert series back in 1979. Since then, the series has become one of the top outdoor events in the Northwest, and is the region's longest-running outdoor series. Last summer, the event held 18 successful concerts. Wells Fargo has sponsored the concert series for 10 years and has donated more than $1 million in support of the zoo's conservation programs. "Wells Fargo is proud to sponsor the summer concert series every year at the Oregon Zoo," said Alan Johnson of Portland, Wells Fargo's regional president for Oregon and southwest Washington. "These concerts bring world class musicians to our city who put on great concerts at affordable prices for local residents. The proceeds from these concerts also benefit the Oregon Zoo, one of our state's leading educational institutions and a strong cultural resource for our community." The summer concert series is co-sponsored by Fred Meyer and Willamette Week. "The zoo concerts mean so much to our customers and the community," said Melinda Merrill, director of public affairs at Fred Meyer stores. "Fred Meyer truly believes in the zoo's mission of conservation and education and is thrilled that the revenues generated through these wonderful concerts benefit local endangered species." Fred Meyer has provided leadership and support to the zoo since 1977. The Fred Meyer Foundation has also provided grants to purchase a new van for the educational outreach programs and, in 2004, provided a grant to support the Zoo Animal Presenters program in which underserved teens take animals to local neighborhoods around North Portland and beyond. December
22, 2006
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Beginning Jan. 1, visitors to the Oregon Zoo will be helping endangered Northwest animals, some as small as a quarter, by paying an extra 25 cents per ticket. "The zoo is committed to conservation and saving wildlife," said Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "Through this 25-cent conservation surcharge, we can raise $100,000 a year for Northwest conservation efforts. By helping save our imperiled butterflies, turtles and other native species, we hope to inspire others to care about animals, and the future of all local wildlife." During the Oregon Zoo's best attendance year, a 25-cent surcharge would have raised more than $335 thousand for conservation efforts, Vecchio noted. The new conservation funds will go to the zoo's Future for Wildlife programs for a variety of Northwest conservation projects. To learn more about these conservation efforts, go to http://www.oregonzoo.com/Conservation/ffw.htm. Animals such as western pond turtles, pygmy rabbits and butterflies are among the native species to benefit from the zoo's new 25-cent conservation surcharge. In July, the zoo returned 58 endangered western pond turtles to the wild, releasing them in the Columbia River Gorge. The turtles, each about the size of a quarter when they were born, spent their first nine months at the zoo, growing large enough to avoid being eaten by non-native bullfrogs and large-mouth bass, threats that have decimated the species. The zoo conducts similar programs for rare Taylor's Checkerspot and Oregon silverspot butterflies, species once abundant in the Northwest. In August, the zoo released 527 Taylor's Checkerspot butterfly larvae/caterpillars back into the wild in Washington state, south of Olympia. Meanwhile, the critically endangered pygmy rabbit appears poised to make a comeback, following the zoo's most successful breeding season ever. In March, the zoo, in conjunction with its conservation partners plans to release pygmy rabbits back into the wild for the first time -- a remarkable development in the story of a subspecies at the brink of extinction. Just a few years ago, only 16 pygmy rabbits remained in the entire state of Washington, near the small town of Ephrata. "When I think about it, a quarter really can't buy much these days, maybe 20 minutes at a parking meter," said Lindsay Oberheide, zoo visitor. "I would rather give the extra quarter to help our Northwest turtles, butterflies and rabbits, so my kids can enjoy them in the future." The 25-cent conservation surcharge benefiting Northwest animals will bring general admission to $9.75 for adults (ages 12-64), $8.25 for seniors (65 and older), and $6.75 for children (ages 3-11). Admission will still be free for children 2 and under, and zoo members will continue to receive free admission and free parking. The zoo's popular "Two-Buck Tuesday" program will continue, with a discounted admission of $2 on the second Tuesday of every month. December
20, 2006
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Since the thought of having to write "Lose 10 pounds" on the New Year's resolutions list -- again -- can make anyone see red, the Oregon Zoo offers an alternative: See green. While the zoo recycles 68 percent of its waste, well above the national average of 30 percent, there is still room for improvement. The zoo's Green Team encourages the organization to do better every year. By setting higher standards for the zoo, the team hopes to challenge individuals and businesses to consume less and conserve more. "Because we exist to help protect wild animals and their habitats, the zoo must walk its talk and set a good example," said Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "By publishing the list, the zoo hopes to give other businesses ideas about how they can 'green' their operations." The Green Team is a committee comprised of employees and volunteers representing many of the zoo's departments. With the goal of making the zoo a great environmental ambassador, the Green Team is constantly looking for ways to improve the zoo's practices and serves as a model for earth-friendly operations. The Green
Team achieved many of its 2006 green resolutions, including completion
of: The Green
Team has been publishing its resolutions for seven years, and the tradition
continues this year with some ambitious
goals.
The zoo's
green resolutions for 2007 are as follows: People in every division of the zoo help come up with the resolutions, which the zoo's Green Team compiles. The team meets monthly to explore new ways of taking the zoo's green operations to a higher level. "We are very proud of our 2006 accomplishments and hope to become even greener in the coming years," said Vecchio. December
19, 2006
PORTLAND, Ore. - After more than three months, the Oregon Zoo's new ocelot kitten has a name: Rio. The kitten made his much-anticipated debut this morning at 10 a.m., and keepers announced the results of an online voting contest. Of the 4,408 votes, Rio -- which means "river" or "laugh" in Spanish -- received more than 2,132 votes. The name Mo came in second with 1,226 votes and Bonito was third with 1,050. The public can now see Rio and his mom and dad in the ocelot exhibit adjacent to the zoo's Amazon Flooded Forest exhibit. A tip from the keepers is that the kitten is more active in the morning and the late afternoon, so those are the best times to visit. "The kitten is showing many characteristics of a wild ocelot, including being somewhat nocturnal," said Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "He's becoming more and more energetic, and is become more curious every day. I know our visitors will absolutely love watching him explore his new home." The ocelot was born Sept. 14 and continues to be nurtured by his mother, Alice. She and her mate, Ralph, came to the zoo on April 22. Ralph, Alice and the kitten belong to the southern Brazilian species, Leopardus pardalis mitis, which inhabits the tropical and subtropical forests of southern Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina. Since 2002, the Oregon Zoo has been working with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Brazilian Ocelot Consortium and the government of Brazil to play a role in the ocelot's survival. It was determined several years ago that North American zoos' ocelot population should be replaced by a genetically defined subspecies -- the Brazilian ocelot. The Oregon Zoo is one of 10 U.S. zoos involved with the consortium. "The kitten is a charismatic ambassador for ocelots," said Vecchio. "He's helping educate people about the importance of saving these rare and important cats." December
15, 2006
PORTLAND, Ore. - The Oregon Zoo's rare ocelot kitten makes his much-anticipated debut Tuesday, Dec. 19, at 10 a.m. The public is invited to see the adorable kitten in person, welcome him to the zoo and learn his new name. "He is growing by leaps and bounds," said Mitch Finnegan, zoo veterinarian. "He is about half the size of his mother at only 3 months and will eventually outweigh her." Closely following in mom's footsteps, the kitten has been cautiously exploring his lush new living space -- part of the zoo's Amazon Flooded Forest exhibit -- for the past few days. He has been spotted chewing on leaves and testing his climbing abilities. Zoo officials plan to announce the new ocelot's name Tuesday as well. Last month, keepers sought the public's help in naming the kitten, having narrowed the choices down to three favorites: Rio (meaning "river" or "laugh" in Spanish or Portuguese), Mo (short for monkey, because the kitten lives in the zoo's Primate Building, which has been expanded to include species in South America and the Amazon) and Bonito (meaning "beautiful" or "pretty" in Spanish). Votes are still being accepted through Monday, Dec. 18, at 5 p.m. To vote for your favorite name, please go to: http://www.oregonzoo.org/Voter/vote_form.cfm. Before being introduced to his new surroundings, the ocelot kitten had been receiving around-the-clock care from his mother, Alice, in a secluded birthing den. The kitten has had check-ups from the zoo's vet staff, but in general the zoo is letting mom take care of her baby. "The kitten is showing many characteristics of a wild ocelot," said Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "The little guy is pretty energetic and becoming bolder every day. I know our visitors will absolutely love watching him grow." The ocelot was born Sept. 14 and continues to be nurtured by his mother, Alice. She and her mate, Ralph, came to the zoo on April 22. Zoo staff was not expecting a baby so soon, but has been prepared from the start. The exhibit was designed specifically with breeding the ocelots in mind, and off-exhibit holding space for an expecting mother and her kittens had already been provided. Ralph, Alice and the kitten belong to the southern Brazilian species of ocelot, Leopardus pardalis mitis, which inhabits the tropical and subtropical forests of southern Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina. Since 2002, the Oregon Zoo has been working with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Brazilian Ocelot Consortium and the government of Brazil to play a role in the ocelot's survival. It was determined several years ago that the ocelot population of North American zoos should be replaced by a genetically defined subspecies -- the Brazilian ocelot. The Oregon Zoo is one of 10 U.S. zoos involved with the consortium. "Our new baby is a charismatic ambassador for his species," said Vecchio. "He's educating people about the importance of saving these rare cats -- and their ever-shrinking habitats." December 12, 2006
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Visitors who've procrastinated still have a few more evenings to take in the beauty of the Oregon Zoo's winter festival, ZooLights, which runs through Sunday, Dec. 31. This family tradition, presented by The Boeing Company, features nearly a million lights illuminating life-size animal silhouettes, trees, walkways and the ever-popular zoo train. "Families are creating cherished memories during ZooLights, as they sip their hot chocolate and ride the historic steam engine," said Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "It's a wonderful holiday tradition." This year, an additional 100,000 lights depict plenty of unusual animals throughout the zoo grounds and along the train route. Butterflies and flowers can be seen along the tracks, and a surprise awaits passengers inside the tunnel at the conclusion of the train ride. "Every year, we really try to outdo ourselves," said Vecchio. "This year we've added a Komodo dragon, a hooded lizard, a gray auk and a cougar -- and with the recent birth of that adorable ocelot kitten, we had to create a light display depicting the baby and his parents, Ralph and Alice." Also new this year is the zoo's very own Land of Oz. "For the first time, guests can follow the yellow brick road to the Emerald City at Trillium Creek Family Farm," said Vecchio. "Families can join Dorothy, Toto, the Cowardly Lion and even those frightening flying monkeys in the Land of Oz." Deep inside the zoo, an anaconda is re-created in lights at the Amazon Flooded Forest exhibit, and a gingerbread house, complete with a candy-cane fence, lights up the Crossroads. Three life-size, 3-D hippos graze near a river of lights on the zoo's concert lawn. The meandering river of LED lights is 180 feet long and 16 feet wide. Two life-size, 3-D crocodiles keep close watch on the hippos as they graze; one crocodile has a motorized mouth that opens when visitors tap a switch. Just below the river of lights are submerged hippos and crocodiles. Nearby, an African fish eagle swoops down and scoops up a fish from the river The zoo's popular costumed characters and elves greet zoo visitors and pose for pictures. Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer joins Buddy Beaver, Honey Bear, Eliza Elephant, Lulu Lemur, Nate the Eagle, Rock E. Goat, Sandy Sea Otter and Titus Tiger. Visitors can also see some of the zoo's resident animals, including mountain goats, elephants, primates, and pettable sheep and goats. Music lovers will enjoy the highly animated light silhouette of Mick Jaguar, performing on the concert stage with his all-star animal band: Packy Pachyderm tickling the ivories, Richard Lion playing guitar, Gerri Giraffe on bass, Billy Bear on trumpet, Orville Orangutan on drums and Willy Wildebeest on sax. The Ostrich Sisters add backing vocals. Favorite light displays return from previous years, including trumpeting elephants, tobogganing polar bears and swinging monkeys. Lions chase a herd of impalas, while a giraffe grazes nearby. An ostrich gets startled and runs away, hiding its head in the sand. Macaws fly from tree to tree. A 35-foot-long dragon mysteriously floats above the walkway. At Steller Cove, a sea lion and dancing sea star greet visitors. Close by, white swans swim in a garden pond and penguins dive in arctic waters. A baby kangaroo jumps out of its mother's pouch and begins to hop around. And darting red and green amphibians play a lively game of leapfrog. The sounds of the season can be heard in the zoo as more than 100 schools, churches and professional groups perform holiday musical selections, and are joined by several local dance troupes. In addition to the lights, characters and music, the Tualatin Valley Model Railroad Club again makes its enlarged NTRAK train display available for visitors to see. For ZooLights thrill seekers, the zoo's simulator roller coaster ride takes visitors back to their youth, when their room was their own private adventure. The ride, called Kid Coaster, captures the essence of childhood. Visitors are instantly "miniaturized," finding themselves in a tiny car on a toy racetrack. Visitors laugh as they plunge down steep inclines, shriek as a giant fly buzzes past their heads, and hold on tight as they careen over a racecourse that spirals up to the ceiling then hurtles back down. Kid Coaster brings the excitement and novelty of being a child back to life. Admission for the ride is $3 for all guests. For last-minute shoppers, the zoo's gift shop, Cascade Outfitters, is bursting with animal-related gifts. Inside the shop, an Artists' Corner features artisans and craftspeople specializing in art made from recycled and sustainable materials. Paintings by the zoo's talented elephant Rama are available for purchase during the opening weekend of ZooLights, and again on Saturday, Dec. 16. Join the zoo in the Cascade Grill for a holiday buffet served Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays during ZooLights, and nightly Dec. 18-22. Buffet service begins at 5 p.m. The price is $14.95 for adults (12 and older), $8.95 for children (3-11) and free for children under 3. No reservations are needed. The Cascade Grill offers a limited menu on days when the buffet is not available. AfriCafe and food carts throughout the zoo offer holiday treats and warm beverages every night of ZooLights. Visitors can see video of the light display by visiting the zoo's Web site at http://www.oregonzoo.org/Events/ZooLights/index.htm ZooLights runs from Nov. 25 through Dec. 31, and is co-sponsored by KOIN News 6, Clear Channel Portland and United Rentals. Hours are 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Guests have one hour past closing time to make their way back to the front gate. During this time, lights and other activities continue until gates close. The festival is closed Dec. 24-25. ZooLights package tickets, which include admission and a train ride, are $9.50 for adults (12-64), $8 for seniors (65 and older), $6.50 for children (3-11), and free for children under 3. Additional information is available at www.oregonzoo.org or by calling 503-226-1561
December 12, 2006
PORTLAND, Ore. -- The holidays came early for fans of cheetahs, cougars, scarlet macaws, giant anteaters and other endangered animals, as the Oregon Zoo Foundation awarded nearly $40,000 to 14 conservation efforts around the world, through its Future for Wildlife grant program. "The Future for Wildlife program helps protect threatened and endangered species and the habitats they depend upon for their survival," said Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "Semi-annually, we fund field conservation work that directly contributes to the survival of animals." Zoo helps Pacific Northwest animals and programs The prairie-dependent Taylor's checkerspot butterfly population has declined significantly due to loss of its native grassland habitat. The zoo continues to raise threatened checkerspots in its conservation lab and is now funding a series of experiments to determine the best time to release developing butterfly larvae back to the wild. Recent surveys of western pond turtles suggest that survival rate of turtle eggs and hatchlings may not be enough to maintain the fragile population. Researchers will study the turtles' aquatic and nesting habitats and share the study results with local landowners in order to develop appropriate conservation plans. According to 2001 statistics provided from actual sales of hunting permits, almost 2,100 cougars are still being killed each year. Scientists will determine cougar responses to tiger or jaguar urine in hopes to develop a nonlethal management technique to prevent human-cougar conflicts and discourage the largest cat in North America from preying upon livestock and other ranch animals. Zoo funds will help pay for a GPS collar and airfare for one zoo staff member to work as a field assistant for this important study. Lastly, the zoo will continue its support of an AmeriCorp volunteer whose main responsibility is to conduct and coordinate fieldwork on endangered and threatened species in the area of Conboy Lake National Wildlife Refuge near Glenwood, Wash., and the Columbia River Gorge. Saving orangutans and creating buffer zones for wildlife and livestock in Asia Experts estimate orangutans could be extinct in the wild in as few as 10 years due to the loss of approximately 80 percent of their habitat in the past 20 years. Zoo funds will help save 10 to 20 wild orangutans, which will be rescued from a rainforest in Borneo that is slated for destruction due to the uncontrolled expansion of oil palm plantations. The zoo is assisting the project manager of the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Reintroduction Project in removing the orangutans. The Chitwan National Park in Nepal is home to a number of endangered animals, including the one-horned rhinoceros and the elusive Bengal tiger. The park serves as a buffer zone between wildlife and livestock. The livestock and wildlife sometimes overlap, which can lead to transmission of disease and parasites. Zoo funds will help researchers implement a wildlife health conservation policy and create a livestock husbandry management plan for the buffer zone. South American macaws, penguins and anteaters in peril With fewer than 300 scarlet macaws in Mexico and Belize, this rare and beautiful bird is one of the most endangered species in Central America. The zoo and Guatemala's Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Association fund scarlet macaw rescue, captive breeding and the printing of educational conservation posters. The Humboldt penguin is endangered because within the past 100 years its droppings have become a source of fertilizer. Mining the guano has caused serious damage to the penguins' habitat. As few as 10,000 of these birds exist in the wild today. For many years the zoo has supported various aspects of Peru's endangered Humboldt penguin colonies in association with Áreas Costeras y Recursos Marinos. Currently, the zoo is helping that organization to expand its successful school and community education and awareness program in both the Chincha and Pisco provinces. Maned wolves are now extinct in Uruguay, and the remaining wild populations are increasingly threatened by the loss of habitat to agriculture. Zoo funds support a Brazilian research veterinarian to determine the current distribution of maned wolves in the Santiago del Estero province. The researcher is studying the wolves' home range, health status, seasonal movements and ecology. Vital field data is desperately needed to better understand the long-term changes occurring as a consequence of human-caused habitat modification. The giant anteater is a flagship species throughout Latin America. The species is now threatened due to habitat destruction and direct exploitation. Researchers at UC Davis are carrying out a pilot survey to provide the first data on the extent of the live-animal trade and what impact that has on the local populations. Tapirs are related to horses and rhinos and all four species of tapir are endangered. For ten years, the Instituto de Pesquisas Ecológicas has been carrying out a tapir conservation project in the Atlantic forests of São Paulo, Brazil. As a next step, they are establishing a tapir project in the Pantanal where no tapir research has been done before. Through studies of the animals' demography, habitat use, genetics and health, the institute hopes to establish a long-term monitoring program and make recommendations for conservation in the region. The bird community is among the most diverse and threatened in South America. Parrots have more endangered species than any other bird family. The vulnerable Vinaceous Amazon parrot in the Atlantic rain forest may become imperiled because of the removal of critical nesting cavities during logging. Studies on 80 logged forest plots at two sites in Argentina will provide information for local education and regulation, and help government leaders make informed decisions regarding management protocols. Africa's cheetahs, leopards and hyenas endangered In 2001, the Zimbabwean government implemented the "fast track" land distribution program, which has negatively affected cheetah, leopard and brown hyena populations. The zoo is supporting Matabeleland research surveying the distribution and status of leopards and cheetahs, and is providing funds to pay for six months of research-vehicle fuel and travel for a zoo staff member to help with the study. While the striped hyena has no natural predators, it does often come into conflict with humans. Hyenas are often poisoned and trapped for preying on livestock or raiding farms. Striped hyenas have also become endangered through habitat loss. Zoo funds will aid researchers in gaining basic knowledge about the animals' behavior through intensive observation at den sites, and observation of their travel patterns and feeding behavior at night. Discoveries will provide scientists with information to target effective conservation efforts for hyenas. Future for Wildlife This year, an additional 100,000 lights depict plenty of unusual animals throughout the zoo grounds and along the train route. Butterflies and flowers can be seen along the tracks, and a surprise awaits passengers inside the tunnel at the conclusion of the train ride.
December 8, 2006
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Animal characters are a long-standing tradition at the Oregon Zoo's ZooLights festival, brought to life by volunteers from throughout Washington, Multnomah, Clackamas and Clark counties. And once again, Metro Councilor Robert Liberty -- representing neighborhoods in Northeast, Southeast and Southwest Portland -- plans to be among them. On Wednesday, Dec. 20, Liberty will reprise his role as Rock E. Goat, sometimes known as Rocky, during the ZooLights Festival from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Mountain goats like Rocky are native to the high alpine areas of the Cascade Mountains. According to Liberty, Rock E. Goat welcomes the chance to meet with children during ZooLights. "The children and their families are great fun for Rocky," says Liberty. "Besides, they take his mind off his worries, especially global warming. As the Northwest's snow and glaciers retreat up the mountains, there are fewer places for Rocky and his relatives to live in the Northwest." Liberty adds that even though Rocky and his relatives live up in remote areas of the mountains, they have one very important thing in common with people in the city: "They both care about the future of their kids." Other characters appearing with Rocky are Buddy Beaver, Honey Bear, Eliza Elephant, Lulu Lemur, Nate the Eagle, Sandy Sea Otter, Titus the Tiger and, of course, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Costumed Characters have been part of the ZooLights tradition for 19 years, and kids look forward to meeting their favorite ones each holiday season. The characters wander throughout the zoo during the festival and are happy to pose for pictures. Each character is escorted by an elf whose job is to introduce the character and takes pictures ZooLights lasts through Dec. 31 and features nearly a million lights that illuminate the entire zoo. Brightly lit monkeys swing through the zoo, glittering crocodiles open their jaws, and there is even a glimpse of a cat playing a fiddle. The zoo train will also be open, and covered with lights, an invitation to take a magical trip around the zoo to look at the brightly colored animated lights. A variety of schools and organizations perform during the nightly festival, some singing festive songs. The Tualatin Valley Model Railroad Club also puts on a display during ZooLights. Not all the exhibits are open, but there are many activities at the zoo. In addition, some of the larger animals like the tigers and elephants can be seen. Disappointed because your favorite animal isn't visible? "You can always visit your favorite costumed character," suggests Liberty. ZooLights is presented by The Boeing Company and co-sponsored by KOIN News 6, Clear Channel Portland and United Rentals. Hours are 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Guests have one hour past closing time to make their way back to the front gate. During this time, lights and other activities continue until gates close. The festival is closed Dec. 24-25 ZooLights package tickets, which include admission and a train ride, are $9.50 for adults (12-64), $8 for seniors (65 and older), $6.50 for children (3-11), and free for children under 3. Additional information is available at http://www.oregonzoo.org/Events/ZooLights/index.htm or by calling 503-226-1561. Visitors can see video of the light display by visiting the zoo's Web site at http://www.oregonzoo.org/Events/ZooLights/preview.htm December
4, 2006
PORTLAND, Ore. - Mysteries of the elusive flying reindeer are revealed when flying-reindeer expert and Oregon Zoo Director Tony Vecchio shares his many reindeer theories with children at the zoos elk meadow. Activities include feeding the flying reindeers cousin, the beautiful Roosevelt elk, on Friday, Dec. 22, from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Mysteries of Flying Reindeer is free with zoo admission. Vecchio has studied flying reindeer for 10 years and hopes to gather new data during the elusive creatures once-a-year migration. He is asking children around the world to report their sightings by visiting http://www.oregonzoo.org/Animals/flying_reindeer/flying_reindeer.htm and clicking on the Flying Reindeer Report Center. "The science of reindeer flight continues to evolve as new data pours in every Dec. 24, during their once-a-year migration," said Vecchio. "I'm asking anyone who sees flying reindeer to e-mail me the details, such as where they saw the reindeer, what time it was, how high they were in the sky." All reported sightings will be documented on a map located on the zoo's Web site. Visitors can view a video of Vecchio discussing his theories while feeding the flying reindeers cousin, the Roosevelt elk, at http://www.oregonzoo.org/VideoArchive/FlyingReindeer.htm. Vecchio first began studying reindeer flight when he was asked to theorize the concept for Robert Sullivan's 1996 book Flight of the Reindeer. Throughout the month, the zoo hosts a variety of holiday-themed activities, including ZooLights (through Dec. 31), Presents for Primates (Dec. 14) and Winter Break ZooVenture day camps for kids 4 years of age through fourth grade (Dec.18-22 and Dec. 26-29).
December 4, 2006
PORTLAND, Ore. - 'Twas the holiday season and all through the zoo, not
a camper was sleeping for it was Holiday ZooSnooze! The campers were
nestled all snug in their beds, while visions of ocelots danced in
their heads...
The Oregon Zoo's holiday-themed ZooSnooze program offers sleepovers
for ages 6 through 12 on Saturday, Dec. 30. Registration is required
by Dec.
22.
December 1, 2006
PORTLAND, Ore. - In the hunt for truly distinctive holiday gifts, look no further than the Oregon Zoo. Offering many unique and eco-friendly gifts, each purchase helps the zoo raise funds for its conservation programs and environmental education efforts. Forget the fruitcake, and sponsor an animal for that special someone this holiday season. Whether the apple of your eye walks, swims, hops, crawls or flies, here's the perfect way to learn more about the habits and habitats of nearly 100 species of exotic animals through the ZooParents sponsorship program. Starting at $25, the sponsoring parent receives a personalized certificate, animal fact sheet and a one-year subscription to the zoo's newsletter, Oregon Zoo Tracks. A $55 Naturalist level sponsor receives all of the above benefits plus a color photo of the animal and two passes to Zoofari, an evening featuring behind-the-scenes group tours led by Oregon Zoo keepers. ZooParent sponsorships are tax deductible and benefit the zoo's Future for Wildlife program, which helps fund conservation programs for endangered and threatened species, including California condors, western pond turtles, Washington pygmy rabbits, and Oregon silverspot butterflies. Most of your favorite zoo animals are available for sponsorship, so whether it's an Amur tiger or a naked mole rat, there's sure to be an animal to suit everyone's taste. Animal sponsorships may be purchased online at www.oregonzoo.org/ZooParents or by calling 503-220-2493. Zoo memberships are always an appreciated gift. Membership include unlimited zoo admission for one full year; admission benefits at more than 100 zoos nationwide; invitations to members-only events; a quarterly newsletter; and discounts on zoo train rides, educational camps and classes, and at the zoo's gift shop. Memberships begin at $44. For further information, call 503-220-2493 or visit www.oregonzoo.org. Zoo gift certificates, which can be used toward admission or for food and retail purchases, are available at the zoo's reception office in $5 increments. Regular admission tickets, which are valid for one year from date of purchase, make great stocking stuffers. They can be purchased either in the zoo's office or online at www.oregonzoo.org. An up-close and personal experience with an animal is priceless, but gift certificates for such an adventure can be purchased through the zoo's education office at 503-220-2781. Education gift certificates may be used to pay for any education program, including camps, classes and Behind the Scenes Encounters. The zoo's gift shop, Cascade Outfitters, is bursting with unique animal-themed gifts. From intricate handmade animal ornaments to cuddly plush toys, the gift shop has something for everyone. There are a wide variety of animals to hug, puzzles to solve, books to read, and collectible gifts for everyone on your list. Zoo admission is not required to shop at Cascade Outfitters. If you prefer to shop from the comfort and warmth of your home, the gift shop can be accessed at www.oregonzooshop.com or through a link on the home page of the zoo's Web site, www.oregonzoo.org. Shipping and the 10 percent member discount are also available on the Web. Members will also receive an additional 10 percent discount on their first Internet purchase. During ZooLights hours, the gift shop will showcase an Artists' Corner featuring works made from recycled and sustainable materials. |
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Metro
Councilors Robert Liberty (left) and Brian Newman (middle)
and Metro President David Bragdon shoveling elephant
poop during the unveiling of the Oregon Zoo's new state-of-the-art
composting facility.
Rio
the ocelot kitten exploring
his exhibit
Ocelot Kitten
Zoolights
Cougar
Rock E. Goat Character
Tony
Vecchio with Reindeer "cousin", the zoo's Roosevelt Elk
Mother and daughter enjoying the zoo at night.
An Amur tiger sponsorship through The Oregon Zoo Foundation's
Zoo Parent program makes a great holiday gift.