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.
March
31, 2006
Vecchio will speak on a wide variety of topics, including the zoo's new Visayan warty pigs and forthcoming ocelot and Cougar Crossing exhibits. He will share his vision for the future and discuss what visitors can expect to see in 2006 and 2007, such as the black bear and bobcat exhibits. Vecchio will also give special recognition to Weyerhaeuser Company Foundation, which has been a major sponsor of zoo exhibits and the zoo's popular World Animal Festival. The foundation pledged $250,000 to support Cascade Canyon Trail as part of its mission to "improve the quality of life in communities where Weyerhaeuser has a presence." More than 150 Oregon business leaders will attend the State of the Zoo address. "Corporations and businesses help us achieve our mission to inspire the community to care for the future of wildlife," says Vecchio. "Their contributions are critical. They help us create world-class conservation efforts, educational programs, special events and exhibits." Tickets for the Spring Corporate Luncheon are $15 per person or $200 for a corporate table of eight. The public can reserve tickets by calling 503-220-5734 before April 10. For more information about innovative partnerships that can benefit both businesses and the Oregon Zoo, please call Cynthia Thompson, the zoo's corporate relations manager, at 503-220-5734. March
29, 2006 PORTLAND, Ore.-The Oregon Zoo invites families to celebrate spring during Rabbit Romp on Saturday, April 15, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Rabbit Romp is presented by Dex, with support from PetCo and 105.1 The Buzz, and is free with regular zoo admission. Rabbit Romp features a traditional candy "egg" hunt, which begins at 9:20 a.m. and repeats every 20 minutes. Children ages 3 to 10 are divided into four age groups, with each group having a chance to find a "magic" egg that contains a special prize. Toddlers 2 and under can participate in a candy hunt organized especially for them.
Cascade Outfitters, the zoo's gift shop, offers kids an opportunity to purchase and create their own furry animal friends at "Animaland." Kids can dress their newly created plush toys in special commemorative Rabbit Romp T-shirts. The gift shop also has a great selection of animal-themed Easter baskets and plush rabbits. March
27, 2006 PORTLAND, Ore.-Do you enjoy interacting with people and animals? The Oregon Zoo has opportunities for youth and adult volunteers to work at least one three-and-a-half-hour shift per week from mid-May through Labor Day in the Winged Wonders butterfly exhibit as ZooAmbassadors. Orientations are scheduled on April 12, 19 and 22.
The zoo is encouraging entire families to volunteer. "Last year several family members volunteered together," commented Tony Vecchio, Oregon Zoo director. "It's rare for children to be included in these opportunities. It's a unique way to create lasting family memories." The program is designed to extend knowledge about the importance of wildlife conservation, while simultaneously bringing families together. Duties include talking to zoo visitors, ensuring the safety of the butterflies, and monitoring exhibit doors to prevent butterflies from flying away. "I have seen huge changes in the demeanor and communication skills of kids who volunteer," commented Paula McCall, volunteer coordinator. "It's a fun learning experience for everyone involved." There are many benefits to volunteering. ZooAmbassadors will meet people who share similar interests and values; receive free zoo admission and a complimentary train ride; have the opportunity to volunteer at zoo concerts; learn about how to attract local wildlife; and participate in training opportunities only available at the zoo. ZooAmbassadors are first required to attend one orientation session. After attending this overview, those who choose to continue will receive 10 hours of training. Orientations are offered on the following days: Thursday,
April 13, 10 a.m. to noon To R.S.V.P. for the session of your choice, please call 503-220-2783 or e-mail communityvolunteer@metro.dst.or.us. The Oregon Zoo has one of the largest zoo volunteer programs in the country. More than 1,700 individuals volunteer more than 143,500 hours per year. March
24, 2006 PORTLAND, Ore.-Oregon Zoo is throwing an elephant-sized party to celebrate the species that made it famous. Elephantastic, which is sponsored by Haggen Food & Pharmacy, is a two-day celebration of Asian elephants. The event is slated for April 8 and 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to coincide with Packy, the zoo's most famous elephant's birthday. "We
decided that, since Packy and the rest of the herd are so well loved,
they needed not just one but two days to celebrate," said
Oregon Zoo Director Tony Vecchio. Both days will be filled with activities such as games, crafts and the ever-popular fashion accessory, elephant ears. A special trunk show featuring the elephant artist Rama is also planned. The highlight of the event will be Packy's 44th birthday party, Saturday, April 8 at 2 p.m. Between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. guests can enter their name in a drawing to be one of four lucky winners to help keepers deliver Packy's giant birthday cake. Packy's fans are invited to sing "Happy Birthday" while the prestigious pachyderm eats (or stomps on) his cake. Packy's party, which is the longest-running event in zoo history, has become a great family tradition. And the day wouldn't be complete without taking a moment to sign the BIG guy's birthday card. Packy's cake, baked by the zoo's own Chef Paul Warner, is a 40-pound whole-wheat concoction topped with frosting, apples, carrots and celery. All guests are invited to share free birthday cake beginning at noon, courtesy of Haggen Food & Pharmacy. Packy, the first elephant born in the Western Hemisphere in more than 44 years, was born on April 14, 1962, making international news. Gifts poured in, a song was written in his honor and a radio station sponsored a naming contest. Gresham, Oregon resident Wayne W. French submitted the winning name. Packy is the oldest and largest male Asian elephant in the United States; he stands 10'4" at the shoulder and his average weight is 14,020 pounds. He has fathered seven calves, including 22-year-old Sung-Surin ("Sunshine") and 23-year-old Rama, both of whom currently live at the zoo. On Sunday, April 9 at 1 p.m., Rama takes center stage as the zoo celebrates his birthday (belatedly) with a special cake in the indoor gallery (Rama's birthday is April 1). Elephantastic is free with regular zoo admission. For more information on the event, visit http://www.oregonzoo.org/Events/elephantastic.htm. March
23, 2006 PORTLAND, Ore.-Sporting a spiky, punk-rock mane, Visayan warty pigs look like the partiers of the pig world. And much like punk rock, the Visayan warty pig is critically endangered. The Oregon Zoo has joined the effort to save this charismatic pig, and zoo visitors can see these unusual animals beginning March 25.
Visayan warty pigs are native to only six islands in the Philippines and have become extinct on four of them. The Oregon Zoo joins the San Diego Zoo, St. Louis Zoo and the Los Angeles Zoo to become only the fourth zoo in the nation to aid in the recovery effort. Even compared with other critically endangered species, the Visayan warty pig is at greater risk than most. In 1993, it was declared a separate species. Since then, scientists have discovered that the two surviving populations, on the islands of Panay and Negros in the Philippines, are actually two distinct subspecies, further complicating conservation efforts. With wild populations in drastic decline, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) sent out an urgent nationwide appeal for zoos to implement emergency breeding programs. The Oregon Zoo answered the call and, with funds provided by an anonymous donor, immediately began building an exhibit.
Visayan warty pigs are easily distinguished from other pigs because of their tough-looking appearance. During mating season, the males develop thick manes that look like spiky Mohawks to go with the already bulbous warts on the side of their heads. The Oregon Zoo has not been home to pigs of any sort since 1989, when domesticated pigs were part of the children's zoo. Visitors can learn more about warty pigs and watch a Web video by visiting http://www.oregonzoo.org/Cards/VisayanWartyPig.htm. March
21, 2006 PORTLAND, Ore.-Nicole Nicassio, Oregon Zoo marine life keeper, will dive into the mysteries of the sea, as she introduces the zoo's Steller cove residents and discusses some of the latest ocean conservation efforts. The incredible voyage sets sail Tuesday, April 11, at 6:30 p.m. in the zoo's Vista Room.
Nicassio will share the latest information regarding studies and research being done at the Oregon Zoo and other conservation facilities. A multicourse feast highlighting edible treasures of the sea will accompany Nicassio's presentation. Oregon Zoo Executive Chef Paul Warner will please palates with delectable hors d'oeuvres such as Dungeness crab stuffed mushrooms, razor clam fritters and pan-fried oyster crostini. The following four courses will comprise smoked salmon and cranberry strudel, baby spinach salad with Oregon shrimp cake, sturgeon braised with shiitake mushrooms and pear almond torte with amaretto whipped cream. Wine and beer are provided courtesy of E. & J. Gallo Winery and New Old Lompoc respectively. The Boeing Company sponsors Dine & Discover, a series of four intimate food and wine experiences representing world regions and fascinating animals. Each evening starts with a reception featuring delectable appetizers. The meal is a masterpiece of regional fare created by Warner and is accompanied by a presentation from a zoo staff member on the animals being highlighted. The cost for each Dine & Discover evening is $75 per person, or $500 per table of eight. Seating is limited to those with reservations. To make reservations, call 503-220-2492. Guests must be 21 or older. Net proceeds
benefit The Oregon Zoo Foundation's Future for Wildlife program. March
20, 2006 PORTLAND, Ore.-Even though cheetahs, African wild dogs and infant chimpanzees live thousands of miles from the Pacific Northwest, the Oregon Zoo Foundation is helping save these and other endangered animals through its Future for Wildlife grant program. Recently, the foundation awarded nearly $18,000 to six conservation efforts. "The Future for Wildlife program helps protect endangered animals and the habitats they need for their survival," says Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "Since 1998, we've been providing grants to people and programs that are saving animals as small as butterflies and as big as elephants. What amazes me is how a small grant can make such a huge difference."
More and more African sanctuaries are being created to care for orphaned chimpanzees and gorillas because of the illegal wild animal meat trade. Many of these sanctuaries are providing lifelong care for these often sick and traumatized babies. But care of the babies is only part of the story. Conservation education is essential to stem the wild animal meat trade. Education programs are the most powerful tool sanctuaries have in combating the illegal trade. Each year, these programs reach an estimated 350,000 people. The zoo is providing a $1,072 grant for one sanctuary educator to attend the International Primatological Society Conference and PASA Education Workshop. African Wild Dogs The African wild dog is one of Africa's most endangered carnivores. Once widespread, this predator's population has been drastically reduced because of habitat loss and persecution by humans. To save wild dogs, scientists must first understand the animals' basic needs. The zoo is providing a $2,960 grant to help fund the first assessment of the threats and ecology of African wild dogs in the Luangwa Valley Complex in Zambia. The study will assess the extent of human-wildlife conflict. It will also determine the genetic health of the population, and the distribution, range and movement patterns of wild dogs. Peruvian
Penguins The zoo is providing a $4,400 grant to Areas Costeras y Recursos Marinos (ACOREMA) so the organization can expand its community awareness program to a town that is near one of the remaining Humboldt penguin populations. Penguin conservation efforts include introducing education outreach programs to 15 new schools, integrating information about penguins into school curricula and expanding awareness activities to another province on the southern Peruvian coast. The zoo has supported Humboldt penguin conservation since 1998. Washington Butterflies The Taylor's checkerspot butterfly, found in Washington's Puget Trough, has declined significantly in the last 20 years and is teetering on the edge of extinction. Less than 3 percent of the butterfly's native grasslands remain. The zoo is helping this rare butterfly by rearing Taylor's checkerspot larvae in its conservation lab. In addition, the zoo has provided a $2,542 grant to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife so the agency can monitor three wild release sites to help identify the threats to these butterflies. The department will also measure the survivability of zoo-reared butterflies. Zimbabwe's Cheetahs and Leopards In 2001, the Zimbabwean government implemented the "fast track" land distribution program, which has affected the distribution of most large carnivores. Because of increased human population and more activity on the land, cheetah, leopard and brown hyena populations are being displaced or killed. The Matabeleland cheetah and leopard research program is surveying the distribution and status of those animals to determine the extent of predation on livestock. In addition, scientists will study the behavior of leopards and brown hyenas, and help park rangers remove "problem" animals, so they can be relocated to national parks. The zoo is providing a $3,900 grant to pay for six months of research-vehicle fuel and two camera traps critical to the success of the study.
Matschie's tree kangaroos are hunted for their meat and fur, but they are especially threatened by habitat destruction caused by mining, agriculture and logging. The Matschie's Tree Kangaroo Conservation Project, led by Dr. Lisa Dabek of Seattle's Woodland Park Zoo, is working with indigenous people to protect some 15,000 acres of wildlife habitat on the Huon Peninsula of Papua New Guinea. This area is critical because of the significant amount of intact rainforest and the country's overall lack of protected areas for wildlife. More than 95 percent of the land is owned by the native residents so the long-term conservation effort must be accomplished by them. "The great thing about the tree kangaroo project is how it includes so many different conservation strategies in a single project," says Dr. David Shepherdson, zoo conservation scientist. "It places a major priority on not just receiving support from the local community, but actively involving them in the effort." The zoo is providing a $3,000 conservation education grant to support the native communities' efforts to save the tree kangaroo. The Oregon Zoo Foundation The Oregon Zoo Foundation supports conservation programs around the Northwest and the world. The Future for Wildlife Conservation Fund receives support from the ZooParent program, Dine and Discover, donations and other sources. The foundation awards grants twice annually. Individuals interested in supporting the Future for Wildlife program can call 503-220-2493. March
17, 2006 PORTLAND, Ore.-Bubba, the famous Burmese python and former resident of the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, will move into his spacious new digs in the Oregon Zoo's primate building on Friday, March 31.
"Snakes, including Burmese pythons like Bubba, keep growing for their entire lives," says Elaina Medina, OMSI's public relations director. "With that in mind, OMSI started looking around for a new home for Bubba where he could continue to grow and thrive. It was important to us that the public would still be able to visit him. After much careful research, we found an ideal location for Bubba at the Oregon Zoo." "The zoo is pleased to take over his care," said Tony Vecchio, Oregon Zoo director. "Bubba has professional animal keepers and a veterinary team to watch over him, and a great new exhibit to enjoy." In late February, Bubba was carefully transported to the zoo, where he received a full physical. One question that had never been officially addressed was about to be answered: Was Bubba a "he" or a "she"? "There were a few moments when we believed Bubba might be Bubbette," says zoo veterinarian Lisa Harrenstien. "But I can now report with confidence that he is indeed a male." March 13, 2006 PORTLAND, Ore.-Known as "the river that never finds the ocean," the Okavango Delta in northern Botswana is the world's largest inland water system. Each year, after the annual rainy season, the Delta floods and animals from across the savanna gather there to mate and raise their young along the plentiful banks of the delta waters. Oregon Zoo friends can join the stampede and witness this annual migration as part of an eleven-day zoo Wild World Tour, November 7 to 18.
Mike Keele, the deputy director of the Oregon Zoo will lead the tour. Keele is an elephant expert who has traveled extensively in Africa. "Water is life on the African savanna and the Okavango Delta is rich in both," Keele says. "Visiting in November, we'll be there after mating season when mothers will have newborn youngsters following them around." The safari adventure begins with two days at Xigera Camp, situated in the heart of the Okavango on Paradise Island, within the Moremi Game Reserve. Travelers experience close encounters with wildlife on mokoro rides through the quiet waterways and see, hear and smell Africa during short walking safaris. Each morning, travelers check the soft sand bridge into camp for tracks left by lions, leopards, and hyenas that pass through at night. From Xigera, fly to the Chitabe Camp for three days of day and night game drives. From an opened top Land Rover, travelers spot lions, buffalo, leopards and cheetahs, as well as the rare and highly endangered African wild dog. Dr. Tico McNutt, who heads the Botswana Wild Dog Project (or one of his researchers), will be there to share insights with the group. Next, travelers
visit Selinda, for two days in this private wildlife camp located in
Botswana's northern Kwando/Linyati
region. The
camp is owned by legendary wildlife documentary filmmakers
Dereck and
Beverly Joubert, who have produced award-winning films
for National Geographic
like "Eternal Enemies: Lions and Hyenas" and "Reflections
of Elephants." Selinda's floodplains are host to
a variety of antelope, zebra, giraffe, buffalo, and plenty
of elephants. Predator
viewing is also exceptional, including the hippo-killing
lions of Selinda, as well as leopard, wild dog and cheetah. Travelers interested in an extra African discovery can experience the cosmopolitan side of southern Africa, with a five-day pre-trip extension to Cape Town. Called South Africa's Mother City, Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, perched on the edge of the Cape of Good Hope at the very tip of Africa. Alternatively, travelers can choose to extend the journey for two days with a trip to Victoria Falls, Zambia. The spectacular falls are formed by the Zambezi River. The falls were named after Queen Victoria by the famous explorer Dr. David Livingston, the first European to visit them. The tour to the Okavango Delta costs $7,495, including airfare from Portland. The extension to Cape Town costs $1,895, while the extension to Victoria Falls costs $1,195. The deadline to sign up for the tour is June 15. For information on how to sign up for this adventure, call 503-220-5707 or email lloydk@metro.dst.or.us. March
10, 2006 PORTLAND,
Ore.-Sporting a spiky, punk-rock mane, Visayan warty pigs look like
the partiers of the pig world. And
much like punk rock, the Visayan
warty pig is critically endangered. The Oregon Zoo has joined the effort
to save this charismatic pig, and zoo visitors can see these unusual
animals beginning March 25. The zoo invites the public to go hog wild during the opening day activities on Saturday, March 25, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Activities begin with Metro President David Bragdon unveiling the exhibit at 10 a.m. Zoo visitors can "squeal like swine" in a pig calling competition judged by President Bragdon at 10:30 a.m. Games and stories help teach visitors about pigs from all over the world, including the warty pig. Finally, zoo visitors can make and decorate their own pig snouts. Visayan warty pigs are native to only six islands in the Philippines and have become extinct on four of them. The Oregon Zoo joins the San Diego Zoo, St. Louis Zoo and the Los Angeles Zoo to become only the fourth zoo in the nation to aid in the recovery effort. Even compared
with other critically endangered species, the Visayan warty pig is
at greater risk
than most. In 1993, it was declared a separate
species. Since then, scientists have discovered that the two surviving
populations, on the islands of Panay and Negros in the Philippines,
are actually two distinct subspecies, further complicating conservation
efforts. The zoo will be home to members of the Panay subspecies, about which virtually nothing is known. What is known is that the pig's forest habitat is being destroyed at an alarming rate. Only small pockets of Visayan warty pigs remain in the wild, cut off from each other and with dwindling food sources. As the pigs become more and more isolated, they come in contact with human agriculture. Farmers hunt the pigs because they view them as pests, and interbreeding with domesticated swine threatens the genetic purity of the species. Visayan warty pigs are easily distinguished from other pigs because of their tough-looking appearance. During mating season, the males develop thick manes that look like spiky Mohawks to go with the already bulbous warts on the side of their heads. The Oregon Zoo has not been home to pigs of any sort since 1989, when domesticated pigs were part of the children's zoo. March
8, 2006 PORTLAND, Ore. - Fort Lauderdale, Palm Springs and Hawaii have nothing on Oregon Zoo as a spring break destination. At the zoo's third annual Zoo's Gone Wild celebration, March 26-31, spring breakers can "go wild" with "punk-rock" warty pigs, and "party hearty" with penguins, pachyderms and polar bears.
The event provides a tropical vacation for the animals as well as for zoo visitors, according to Vecchio. "Our wildly enthusiastic volunteers and staff have been planning this week's special enrichment activities all year," says Vecchio. Enrichment is designed to mentally stimulate animals by changing their environment. Each day's schedule will be packed with animal food puzzles, treat-filled piñatas and demolition opportunities. Visitors
can watch polar bears breaking open ice treats, elephants
demolishing piñata cars and orangutans trying on work
shirts. They can also check out the zoo's newest resident:
the Visayan warty
pig. "Sporting a spiky mohawk, warty pigs look like the partiers of the pig world," says Vecchio. Animals aren't the only ones who get to party. Tropical tunes will be piped over the PA system, and event volunteers will be decorating the zoo with giant hibiscus blossoms, flower garlands and grass skirting. Visitors are encouraged to enhance the zoo's décor by coming in Hawaiian shirts or other tropical attire. Returning this year is an exhibit of two dozen lovely pink flamingos. Vecchio says he's delighted with the birds, since they are made of sturdy plastic and don't require special diets or attention from keepers. Animal enrichment activities are themed by day: - Sunday is Go Wild on Opening Day, a beach party, with the polar bears, hippos and elephants playing host. Polar bears chill with some frosty beverages, while hippos play their version of water volleyball (with delicious grain tumbling out of their plastic ball). Meerkats get to bat at beach-ball piñatas, then kick back and rest in their tiki hut. The elephants are still the kings of cool as they crush their tropical ice treats. - Monday is Spring Training Day. Lorikeets hit home runs with nothing but their beaks, in order to get at their Wiffle ball treats. After watching them for a while, take a break from the game and enjoy some peanuts and popcorn. Visitors can then pick up a few spring training tips from the elephants, sea lions, sea otters and birds of prey during training demonstrations. - Tuesday is Beat the Heat Day. An arctic blast hits the zoo, leaving ice that's good enough to eat. Grizzly bear, mandrills, and sea lions can be found chillin' beside Sno-Kone mountains, and the lorikeets will cool off in a misty shower. Tigers and penguins run and swim through sprinklers, while elephants stay cool with a refreshing shower. - Wednesday's Demolition Derby is packed full of smashing, crashing and trashing. On this day, destruction is the name of the game, with the lorikeet "stump smash" and the penguin "ice splash." Sun bears make quick work of a termite mound, while chimp houses are quickly crumpled. Not to be outdone, elephants delight in an old-fashioned demolition derby. - Thursday is Predator Pounce. Have you ever seen a crocodile feeding frenzy? Things get even creepier when the saddle-billed storks go crazy for cricket. Wolves get into the act and stalk their piñata prey, while tigers pounce on their bouncy toys. - Friday's theme is Construction Junction. The orangutans put on their work shirts and get down to the task at hand, using their own tool-shaped piñatas. Sea otters dive into a construction zone and keep a cool head with hard-hat ice treats. There's plenty of monkeying around when the swamp monkeys get toolboxes and tool-shaped piñatas. On Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., visitors can stop by a booth staffed by the zoo's Volunteer Enrichment Team to investigate "trashed item" tables (samples of enrichment items used by animals) and play in a termite mound. Visitors can also join the enriching fun by building sandcastles, getting their faces painted and entering the "Move About the Zoo" contest for a chance to win tickets from Southwest Airlines. Spot the Southwest airplane hidden somewhere on zoo grounds, then submit a slip of paper indicating the plane's location. At the end of the week, two winners will be selected to receive a pair of tickets each. Oregon Zoo is internationally renowned for its animal enrichment programs. Enrichment challenges animals with complex tasks that require problem solving. Web visitors can see an example of polar bear enrichment by visiting http://www.oregonzoo.org/Cards/Bears/bear.polar.htm. March
8, 2006 PORTLAND, Ore. - If you've ever thought about meeting up with a grizzly bear, voluntarily or not, now is your chance. A 9-foot tall grizzly named Bug is the featured animal in the Oregon Zoo's next Behind the Scenes Family Encounter, Saturday, March 18, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
"Our tours offer up-close experiences with animals from around the world," says Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "Having the chance to encounter a 600-pound grizzly within just a few feet is something you'll never forget." Participants in the Grizzly Family Encounter will learn how the zoo's environmental enrichment efforts help one of the largest predators in North America stay physically and mentally active. "Hide-and-seek" is the key. Guests get to help hide treats around the exhibit, and then watch as the grizzly hunts for his morning snacks. "Enrichment treats and activities are designed to keep animals moving and thinking-and they're a blast to watch," says Charis Henrie, education program coordinator. Behind the Scenes Family Encounters are enriching for zoo guests as well, creating an appreciation for animals through one-of-a-kind experiences. Member prices for family encounters are $50 for two people and $25 for each additional person. Nonmember prices are $60 for two people and $30 for each additional person. To sign up for the Grizzly Family Encounter, or for more information, call 503-220-2781. March
7, 2006 PORTLAND, Ore. - Anyone who has been to the Oregon coast has seen them: shorebirds gathered on rocky cliffs or dancing together in the surf as they peck at the wet sand. They are as much a part of the seascape as the distant waves.
Paulson, director emeritus of the University of Puget Sound's Slater Museum of Natural History, talks about the behavior and distribution of sandpipers, plovers and related species, their role in the coastal ecosystem and threats to their survival. "I'm an avid birder myself," says Oregon Zoo Director Tony Vecchio, "and anyone who is interested in birding will be very interested in this lecture. Dr. Paulson is one of the leading experts on shorebirds." Paulson has published numerous books and academic articles on shorebirds, including his most recent guidebook, Shorebirds of North America: The Photographic Guide, published by Princeton University Press in 2005. Paulson also taught vertebrate zoology at the University of Puget Sound for more than a decade and currently leads the Seattle Audubon Society's Master Birder program. The Wildlife Conservation Lecture Series is presented by Pro Photo Supply and receives additional support from New Belgium Brewing, Southwest Airlines, Portland General Electric and Shiels Obletz Johnsen. Hosts for the series are the Audubon Society of Portland, Oregon Zoo and the World Forestry Center. Lectures will be held in the Oregon Zoo's Banquet Center and begin at 7 p.m. Cost for each lecture: $10 for nonmembers; $8 for members of host organizations, students or seniors. 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. The Wildlife Conservation Lecture Series continues with lectures in April and May. Upcoming lectures include: On April 25, bear biologist Chris Morgan shares his many adventures in a lecture titled "Grizzly Bears of the North Cascades." Morgan discusses the history and recovery process of the grizzly bear population in the North Cascades, highlighting bear behavior and safety issues in bear country. He also tackles human misperceptions of bears. The series concludes on May 30, when conservation biologist Dennis Sizemore presents his lecture titled "The Taku River: A Generation With the Taku River Tlingit First Nation." Sizemore talks about the importance of establishing mutual trust with native peoples when working on conservation projects, and how large-scale wilderness preservation and community development is not always mutually exclusive. March
6, 2006 PORTLAND, Ore. - Spring break at the Oregon Zoo is sure to be an adventure for kids 4 years of age to fourth grade. The zoo's popular day-camp program, ZooVenture, is designed and led by the same professional staff that oversees the zoo's summer camp. Daily camps start on Monday, March 27, and run through Friday, March 31.
Each day's activities focus on a unique animal theme. Kids will explore how zoo animals build their lodges, nests and burrows in "At Home With the Animals"; discover how animals climb, fly, glide, dive and survive in the wild in "Movers and Shakers"; and learn how different kinds of animals get along with their families and neighbors in "Groups, Troops and Crashes." Two other surprise themes are scheduled. Each theme promises to be as captivating as the others. Activities include guided trips through the zoo that allow kids to explore various areas in detail. In addition, touchable animals are on hand to make special visits to campers each day. Games, crafts and stories with zoo animal themes add to the daily experiences. Children may attend one, some or all five days. Half-day sessions for 4-year-olds and kindergartners take place from 9 a.m. to noon or 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Full-day sessions for first- through fourth-graders begin at 9 a.m. and end at 4 p.m. Advance registration is required. Half-day sessions for 4-year-olds and kindergartners are $12 per day for zoo members and $14 per day for nonmembers. Full-day sessions for first- through fourth-graders are $27 per day for zoo members and $32 per day for nonmembers. Early drop-off (8 a.m.) and late pick-up (6 p.m.) are available. For information call 503-220-2781. March
3, 2006 PORTLAND, Ore. - Oregon Zoo's sea otters will receive green ice treats filled with their favorite foods and polar bears will receive green Irish-themed toys, Friday, March 17, in honor of St. Patrick's Day. Additionally, the windows in the polar bear exhibit will be decorated with shamrock shapes created with green cream cheese.
Sea otters Thelma and Eddie will receive their green, shamrock-shaped ice treats at 10 a.m. Conrad, Tasul and Yugyan, the zoo's polar bears, will receive their toys at 10:20 a.m. All are expected to enjoy the festivities as if they were native to the Emerald Isle. This is the sixth year that special St. Patrick's Day enrichment treats have been handed out to zoo residents. The Oregon Zoo is known internationally for its enrichment programs, which provide animals with the opportunity to play, hunt and forage as they would in the wild. To watch a Web video of last year's St. Patrick's Day event, go to http://www.oregonzoo.org/Newsroom/video.htm#stpatricksday. March
3, 2006 PORTLAND, Ore. - When school's out, the fun and learning don't have to stop. Oregon Zoo is featuring St. Patrick's Day enrichment for sea otters and polar bears. Beginning at 10 a.m., zoo visitors can watch the zoo's sea otters dive into green shamrock-shaped ice treats. The fun moves to the polar bear exhibit at 10:20 where the windows will be decorated with shamrock shapes created with green cream cheese.
Other activities include sea lion training at 2 p.m. at Steller Cove and a penguin feed at 2:45 p.m. in the Penguinarium. "We understand that parents and kids need options on days when school's out," said Rex Ettlin, education program coordinator. "Parents or grandparents can bring their families to the zoo and check out our animal enrichment activities, training and feeding - they're a lot of fun to watch!" Visitors can view video of last year's St. Patrick's Day polar bear party by clicking on this Web link: http://www.oregonzoo.org/Newsroom/video.htm#stpatricksday. This year's polar bear treats will be slightly different. |
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PORTLAND,
Ore. - Oregon Zoo Director Tony Vecchio will deliver his annual State
of the Zoo address Thursday, April 13, at 11:30 a.m.
at
the Spring Corporate Luncheon in the zoo's Cascade Crest Banquet
Center. The State of the Zoo address is sponsored by Stoel Rives LLP.
Other activities
include a petting zoo, games, storytelling and photo
opportunities. Several lucky Rabbit Rompers may win a chance to
hide special "eggs" (treats such as apples and yams) for the
zoo's elephants to find. The elephants' egg hunt takes place at 2
p.m. Sea
otters and polar bears also celebrate Rabbit Romp with special egg-themed
enrichment at 11 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. respectively.
ZooAmbassadors
provide general animal and exhibit information to visitors, while spending
time with colorful butterflies in the butterfly garden.
Anyone 15 or older can volunteer on his or her own, while youths ages
10 through 14 can volunteer with a parent.
The zoo
invites the public to go hog wild during the opening day activities
on Saturday, March
25, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Activities
begin with
Metro President David Bragdon unveiling the exhibit at 10 a.m.
Zoo visitors can "squeal like swine" in a pig calling competition
judged by President Bragdon at 10:30 a.m. Games and stories help
teach visitors about pigs from all over the world, including the
warty pig.
Finally, zoo visitors can make and decorate their own pig snouts.
The zoo
will be home to members of the Panay subspecies, about which virtually
nothing is known. What is known is that the
pig's forest
habitat is being destroyed at an alarming rate. Only small
pockets of Visayan warty pigs remain in the wild, cut off
from each other
and with dwindling food sources. As the pigs become more
and more isolated,
they come in contact with human agriculture. Farmers hunt
the pigs because they view them as pests, and interbreeding with
domesticated
swine threatens the genetic purity of the species.
"These
are fascinating animals that are beautiful to observe," said
Nicassio. "But it's important to understand the important role
they play in the ocean's ecosystem. "I hope people walk away
from the presentation with a better understanding and appreciation
for the
ocean as a whole."
Orphaned
Chimpanzees and Gorillas
Tree Kangaroos
of Papua New Guinea
The zoo
stepped in to provide Bubba a home when it became apparent he was outgrowing
his exhibit at OMSI. Bubba was
10 feet long and weighed
50 pounds when he arrived at OMSI in 1997. He has grown to more than
14 feet long and now weighs nearly 100 pounds. And he could get a
lot bigger!
Travelers
cross the Delta from camp to camp; no lines, no check-in, just
the cheerful hello from the pilot as he tosses duffle bags in
the back. At each stop, adventurers travel out into the Delta in
open four-by-four vehicles, on foot, and in mokoros (dug out canoes)
before
returning to a luxury tent camp at night. After "roughing
it" in
a tent furnished with fine hand-carved wooden furniture, four poster
beds and private bathrooms, travelers will never think of camping
the same way again.
"We
know Portland won't be as warm as Palm Beach, but we also know that
Oregonians have a great imagination," says Tony Vecchio, zoo
director. "With
Jimmy Buffet and the Beach Boys piped over the PA system, a few
hibiscus garlands and a bit of grass skirting here and there, we
can all put
on our Hawaiian shirts and just pretend."
Behind the
Scenes Family Encounters give children 8-13 (accompanied by an adult)
an insider's glimpse into the lives of the zoo's most
interesting inhabitants. Participants explore areas not normally
accessible to the public, and learn about the animals through personal
interactions.
Renowned
shorebird expert Dr. Dennis Paulson speaks at the Oregon Zoo on March
28 at 7 p.m. as part of the zoo's
2006 Wildlife Conservation
Lecture Series. Paulson's lecture, Travelers on the Wind: The Coming
and Going of Shorebirds, is the second in a four-part series, focusing
on Pacific Northwest conservation efforts.
"We hope the kids make a connection with zoo animals, so they
care about those animals' wild counterparts and the future of all species," said
Oregon Zoo Director Tony Vecchio.
"The bears come right up to the window to lick off the cream cheese," said
marine life keeper Julie Christie. "It's a great treat for them,
and for visitors who get to see them with just a pane of glass separating
them."
"The bears come right up to the window to lick off the cream cheese," said
marine life keeper Julie Christie. "It's a great treat for
them, and for visitors who get to see them with just a pane of
glass separating
them."