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Rose-Tu and her calf share a tender moment. Calf and mom continue to bond after a rough start. Photo by Michael Durham © Oregon Zoo |
PORTLAND, Ore. -- The Oregon Zoo's new baby elephant is acclimating to his
herd, as keepers continue to baby-proof his exhibit space.
"We're making adjustments to the indoor viewing gallery to help accommodate
the calf," said Bob Lee, senior elephant keeper. "We're also making plans to
modify the outdoor yards to make them safer. We have a couple of pools that
we want to make sure he doesn't fall into when he goes outside for the first
time." Lee added that it may be a while before the calf goes outdoors.
The 5-day-old elephant has been exploring his new surroundings. At one
point, keepers saw him gather up some bamboo with his trunk and stick it in
his mouth to see what it was like. During Rose-Tu's morning bath, keepers
gave the calf a large rubber tub to splash in, and he seemed to enjoy the
water quite a bit.
Meanwhile, Rose-Tu and her calf continue to grow more comfortable with each
other, keepers say. The two elephants have been lying down together to
sleep, and they seem much more rested. Once, when Rose-Tu lay down, the calf
nestled between her feet, almost as if to "spoon" although facing in the
wrong direction.
Yesterday afternoon, Rose-Tu and her new calf met up with Shine and Chendra
by means of a "howdy gate," which let them see each other while keeping them
physically separated. Keepers said the meeting seemed to have a calming
effect on Rose-Tu, who appeared comforted by the presence of her companions
in the herd.
The adult elephants all reached their trunks over the top of the gate to
make contact with each other, and Shine and Chendra seemed very interested
in the new calf once they realized he was there. Keepers plan additional
meetings to familiarize the calf with his "aunties," following some
modifications to the "howdy gate."
Keepers are consulting other elephant experts regarding the next steps for
the calf's introduction into the herd.
The baby elephant was born at the Oregon Zoo at 3:56 p.m. on Aug. 23. The
new calf is the first third-generation elephant to be born in the United
States.
Zoo officials have not decided when the public will be able see the calf.
"From the behavioral signs we've seen thus far, we're very hopeful that it
will be soon," said Mike Keele, the zoo's deputy director and the
Association of Zoos and Aquariums' species survival plan coordinator for
Asian elephants.
Rose-Tu, born Aug. 31, 1994, is a popular elephant within the herd and with
her keepers. She is always looking to tease her herd mates and shares a
strong friendship with Chendra, who is nearly the same age. Rose-Tu is the
second smallest elephant in the herd, weighing about 7,600 pounds. She
conceived in late 2006.
The Oregon Zoo has a renowned breeding program for endangered Asian
elephants. More than 25 elephants have been born at the zoo, beginning with
Packy in 1962.
As the infant grows older, father Tusko - a 13,500-pound, 36-year-old Asian
elephant - will be introduced and allowed to interact with him, as well.
Tusko arrived at the zoo in June 2005 on a breeding loan. He has
successfully sired three calves in the past -- two while living in Canada
and one in California.
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan for Asian
elephants recommended that Rose-Tu be bred with Tusko. The AZA, of which the
Oregon Zoo is an accredited member, strives to maintain a sustainable
population of the endangered elephants in North America. Currently, birth
rates are lower than necessary to do so. With few bulls and low birth
rates -- combined with an aging female population -- the North American
elephant population is at of risk becoming extinct.
In the late 1990s, scientists warned zoos that unless a reproductive
management program was undertaken, North America was in danger of not
sustaining a viable elephant population. Statistics indicate that if females
do not become pregnant by the age of 25, their ability to reproduce is
severely diminished.
An endangered species, Asian elephants are represented by an estimated
38,000 to 51,000 individuals living in fragmented populations in the wild.
Agriculture, deforestation and conflict with humans pose a constant threat
to wild Asian elephants.
August 27,
2008
ZOO STAFF READIES BABY ELEPHANT TO MEET REST OF HERD
Oregon Zoo construction team is preparing a modified "howdy gate"
 |
© Oregon Zoo |
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Oregon Zoo keepers continued to report very promising
behavior from both Rose-Tu and her calf today, and think the 4-day-old male
Asian elephant may soon be ready to meet the rest of the herd.
Rose-Tu remained untethered for the majority of last night, and her calf had
full access to her. Keepers say the two are growing more and more
comfortable with each other. Rose-Tu has been moving around quite a bit,
getting a lot of exercise -- and getting used to having a little elephant
following her around.
The next step, keepers say, is to introduce the calf to Shine and Chendra,
the other females in the zoo's elephant herd. Initially, this will be
achieved by means of a "howdy gate," which allows the elephants to see each
other but will not give them access to each others' space. Shine and Chendra
will meet the calf together; keepers are hopeful this will be the first step
toward the calf's full integration into the herd.
Zoo construction staff is working on modifications to its current "howdy
gate," which was designed with adult elephants in mind and has a gap at the
bottom that a curious baby elephant might be able to slip through. Keepers
are not sure when the introductions are going to take place, but they could
occur as soon as this afternoon.
"Everything seems to be going well, but we're still taking it slow to ensure
that mom and calf are completely bonded and comfortable," said Mike Keele,
the zoo's deputy director and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' species
survival plan coordinator for Asian elephants.
The baby elephant is exploring his environment and trotting around his
mother. Keepers say he has been darting in and out of Rose-Tu's legs and
spending a lot of time underneath her, which is where a calf lives during
the early stages of its development. Rose-Tu has been attentive to the calf,
guiding him with her trunk.
The calf is nursing almost exclusively from Rose-Tu now, and keepers no
longer need to give him formula via a bottle. Keepers are mainly using the
supplemental feedings to keep the calf still during routine checks. The calf
is quite strong, and these checks have proved difficult.
The baby elephant was born at the Oregon Zoo at 3:56 p.m. on Aug. 23. Zoo
officials are still uncertain about when the public will be able see the
calf.
"From the behavioral signs we've seen thus far, we're very hopeful that the
reintroduction will be successful," Keele said.
Keele believes that because Rose-Tu had never seen a birth before, she
became confused when the baby was born.
Rose-Tu, born Aug. 31, 1994, was the most recent elephant born at the zoo.
Rose-Tu is a popular elephant within the herd and with her keepers. She is
always looking to tease her herd mates and shares a strong friendship with
Chendra, who is nearly the same age. Rose-Tu is the second smallest elephant
in the herd, weighing about 7,600 pounds. She conceived in late 2006.
The Oregon Zoo has a renowned breeding program for endangered Asian
elephants. More than 25 elephants have been born at the zoo, beginning with
Packy in 1962.
As the infant grows older, father Tusko - a 13,500-pound, 36-year-old Asian
elephant - will be introduced and allowed to interact with him, as well.
Tusko arrived at the zoo in June 2005 on a breeding loan. He has
successfully sired three calves in the past -- two while living in Canada
and one in California.
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan for Asian
elephants recommended that Rose-Tu be bred with Tusko. The AZA, of which the
Oregon Zoo is an accredited member, strives to maintain a sustainable
population of the endangered elephants in North America. Currently, birth
rates are lower than necessary to do so. With few bulls and low birth
rates -- combined with an aging female population -- the North American
elephant population is at of risk becoming extinct.
In the late 1990s, scientists warned zoos that unless a reproductive
management program was undertaken, North America was in danger of not
sustaining a viable elephant population. Statistics indicate that if females
do not become pregnant by the age of 25, their ability to reproduce is
severely diminished.
An endangered species, Asian elephants are represented by an estimated
38,000 to 51,000 individuals living in fragmented populations in the wild.
Agriculture, deforestation and conflict with humans pose a constant threat
to wild Asian elephants.
August 26,
2008
OREGON ZOO POLAR BEAR EUTHANIZED
22-year-old Yugyan succumbs to kidney failure
 |
Yugyan, a female polar bear at the Oregon Zoo, was euthanized
today. The 22-year-old bear, beloved by zoo staff, had been suffering from |
PORTLAND, Ore. -- The Oregon Zoo's joy over its new baby elephant was
dampened this morning as zoo staff learned Yugyan, a 22-year-old female
polar bear, had been euthanized. Yugyan was diagnosed with kidney failure
nearly a year ago, and the zoo's animal-care staff has worked since then to
manage the bear's pain, keeping her comfortable and well-fed.
"During her illness, there were times when she was not doing well, but would
bounce back," said Amy Cutting, acting assistant zoological curator. "Her
latest setback was too much to overcome."
Zoo veterinarians and keepers were able to keep Yugyan comfortable with pain
medication during the year, but decided to euthanize the bear before her
condition deteriorated further.
Keepers gave her chocolate, peanut-butter ice cream and pie -- which are not
part of a polar bear's diet -- and said their goodbyes. They were joined by
former keeper Gordon Noyes.
Keepers described Yugyan, nicknamed Yugs, as "spicy, intelligent, clever and
stealthy."
"She created inventive games with her enrichment toys," said Cutting. "She
was very engaged with her keepers and always curious about what they were
doing."
The youngest of the zoo's three bears, Yugyan was born Dec. 15, 1985, at the
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo in Ohio. She arrived at the Oregon Zoo on Sept. 3,
1986. Her name, pronounced "You-Yang," means northern lights in Aleut.
Yugyan contributed to several studies conducted by researchers connected
with Polar Bears International, increasing our knowledge about polar bears'
reproductive hormone cycles and tracking technology.
"She was truly an ambassador for her counterparts in the wild," said
Cutting.
Polar bears are solitary creatures, according to Cutting, who expects
Yugyan's exhibit-mates, Conrad and Tasul, will adjust to her absence. "While
the bears do have strong long-term relationships in the zoo, Yugyan had been
separated for some time due to her illness."
Polar bears are listed as an endangered species. 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.
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,
Washington's pygmy rabbits, Oregon silverspot butterflies, western pond
turtles, Oregon spotted frogs and Kincaid's lupine. Other projects include
studies on black rhinos, Asian elephants, polar bears and bats.
August 26,
2008
OREGON ZOO ELEPHANT, CALF CONTINUE TO BOND
First-time mother elephant appears more comfortable with new baby
 |
First-time mom Rose-Tu gently nudges her baby boy. Rose-Tu
continues to bond with her calf following her initial aggressive behavior
Saturday. |
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Oregon Zoo elephant keepers this morning finally witnessed
something they've been waiting 22 months to see: a healthy baby elephant
trotting around the gallery, following his mother.
Keepers, increasingly confident that first-time mom Rose-Tu is bonding with
the new calf following her initial aggressive behavior Saturday, removed the
last of the elephant's leg restraints at 7 a.m. today. Fifteen minutes later
they unharnessed Rose-Tu's calf, who has remained close to mom since then,
nursing and trotting to keep up with her big steps, as she roams about the
front viewing room of the elephant barn.
Keepers had removed two of Rose-Tu's restraints yesterday around 6 p.m., and
one more at around 1:30 a.m., as she seemed to grow calmer and more at ease
with the calf. Veterinary staff will continue to supervise Rose-Tu and her
calf during their bonding process.
"We're taking it slow to ensure that mom and calf are completely bonded and
comfortable," said Mike Keele, the zoo's deputy director and the Association
of Zoos and Aquariums' species survival plan coordinator for Asian
elephants. "Once we're confident in the strength of the mother-calf bond,
we'll work on introductions with the other females in the herd, Shine and
Chendra."
Keele said the calf was "getting wobbly on his feet" yesterday, because he
hadn't been getting a lot of sleep, but today he seems much more rested. The
calf lay down and slept once at 4:45 a.m. for an hour. And yesterday, the
calf slept underneath his mom for an hour and a half.
Keepers say the calf's nursing continues to go well.
"The calf has lost weight, which is what we expected," Keele said. As of
6:45 a.m., he weighed 281.6 pounds - less than when he was born - but he is
expected to be back to his birth weight by today or tomorrow. "This morning
he's doing more running than nursing, as he trots behind Rose-Tu," added
Keele.
The baby was born at the Oregon Zoo at 3:56 p.m. on Aug. 23. Zoo officials
are still uncertain about when the public will be able see the calf.
"From the behavioral signs we've seen thus far, we're very hopeful that the
reintroduction will be successful," Keele said.
Keele believes that because Rose-Tu had never seen a birth before, she
became confused when the baby was born.
Rose-Tu, born Aug. 31, 1994, was the most recent elephant born at the zoo.
Rose-Tu is a popular elephant within the herd and with her keepers. She is
always looking to tease her herd mates and shares a strong friendship with
Chendra, who is nearly the same age. Rose-Tu is the second smallest elephant
in the herd, weighing about 7,600 pounds. She conceived in late 2006.
The Oregon Zoo has a renowned breeding program for endangered Asian
elephants. More than 25 elephants have been born at the zoo, beginning with
Packy in 1962.
As the infant grows older, father Tusko - a 13,500-pound, 36-year-old Asian
elephant - will be introduced and allowed to interact with him, as well.
Tusko arrived at the zoo in June 2005 on a breeding loan. He has
successfully sired three calves in the past -- two while living in Canada
and one in California.
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan for Asian
elephants recommended that Rose-Tu be bred with Tusko. The AZA, of which the
Oregon Zoo is an accredited member, strives to maintain a sustainable
population of the endangered elephants in North America. Currently, birth
rates are lower than necessary to do so. With few bulls and low birth
rates -- combined with an aging female population -- the North American
elephant population is at of risk becoming extinct.
In the late 1990s, scientists warned zoos that unless a reproductive
management program was undertaken, North America was in danger of not
sustaining a viable elephant population. Statistics indicate that if females
do not become pregnant by the age of 25, their ability to reproduce is
severely diminished.
An endangered species, Asian elephants are represented by an estimated
38,000 to 51,000 individuals living in fragmented populations in the wild.
Agriculture, deforestation and conflict with humans pose a constant threat
to wild Asian elephants.
August 25, 2008
OREGON ZOO'S ROSE-TU BEGINNING TO SHOW MOTHERLY INSTINCTS
First-time mother elephant allowing calf to nurse
 |
A male elephant calf continues to get stronger (and his mom is
starting to show affection toward him as he nurses). The baby was born at
the Oregon Zoo at 3:56 p.m. on Aug. 23. Keepers and veterinarians are
keeping a close watch on the calf during the reintroduction process. |
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Rose-Tu, the Oregon Zoo's first-time elephant mother, is
now warming to her 286-pound baby boy. Rose-Tu gave birth on Aug. 23 and
initially was confused and was aggressive to her newborn.
"Rose-Tu and her calf have been together since 5 p.m. last night," said Mike
Keele, the zoo's deputy director and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums'
species survival plan coordinator for Asian elephants. "The staff has been
working day and night to help ensure this critical reintroduction is
successful."
During the supervised reintroduction, the calf approaches his mom and nurses
on either side of her. Rose-Tu has been lifting her front leg forward and
tucking the calf under her, almost like a hug, said Keele.
"At one point, the calf was in the wrong place and Rose-Tu gently nudged him
with her trunk, repositioning her legs so he could get better access for
nursing," said Keele. "She seems especially calm around him, and when he
nurses it looks like Rose is almost sleeping, she's so relaxed -- it's a
very good sign."
The calf continues to get stronger and is a "good eater" according to Keele.
When Rose-Tu appears too tired to nurse, keepers have been supplementing the
baby's diet with elephant formula, delivered via a 12-ounce beer bottle with
a large, specially crafted nipple.
The baby elephant is taking in about 10 to 12 liters a day, according to Dr.
Lisa Harrenstien, zoo veterinarian. About two-thirds of that amount is milk
from Rose-Tu, and the other third is formula.
"From the behavioral signs we've seen thus far, we're very hopeful that the
reintroduction will be successful," Keele said.
Keele believes that because Rose-Tu had never seen a birth before, she
became confused when the baby was born.
Rose-Tu, born Aug. 31, 1994, was the most recent elephant born at the zoo.
Rose-Tu is a popular elephant within the herd and with her keepers. She is
always looking to tease her herd mates and shares a strong friendship with
Chendra, who is nearly the same age. Rose-Tu is the second smallest elephant
in the herd, weighing about 7,600 pounds. She conceived in late 2006.
The Oregon Zoo has a renowned breeding program for endangered Asian
elephants. More than 25 elephants have been born at the zoo, beginning with
Packy in 1962.
As the infant grows older, father Tusko - a 13,500-pound, 36-year-old Asian
elephant - will be introduced and allowed to interact with him, as well.
Tusko arrived at the zoo in June 2005 on a breeding loan. He has
successfully sired three calves in the past -- two while living in Canada
and one in California.
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan for Asian
elephants recommended that Rose-Tu be bred with Tusko. The AZA, of which the
Oregon Zoo is an accredited member, strives to maintain a sustainable
population of the endangered elephants in North America. Currently, birth
rates are lower than necessary to do so. With few bulls and low birth
rates -- combined with an aging female population -- the North American
elephant population is at of risk becoming extinct.
In the late 1990s, scientists warned zoos that unless a reproductive
management program was undertaken, North America was in danger of not
sustaining a viable elephant population. Statistics indicate that if females
do not become pregnant by the age of 25, their ability to reproduce is
severely diminished.
An endangered species, Asian elephants are represented by an estimated
38,000 to 51,000 individuals living in fragmented populations in the wild.
Agriculture, deforestation and conflict with humans pose a constant threat
to wild Asian elephants.
August 23, 2008
OREGON ZOO'S ROSE-TU GIVES BIRTH
First-time mother elephant initially shows aggression towards male calf;
baby appears fine
 |
Senior Elephant Keeper Bob Lee helps stabilize a male elephant calf that was born at the Oregon Zoo at 3:56 p.m. on Aug. 23. Keepers and veterinarians are keeping a close watch on the calf and are reintroducing him to his mother this evening (Aug. 23). Photo by Michael Durham © Oregon Zoo. |
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Rose-Tu, a 14-year-old Asian elephant and first-time
mother, gave birth to a 286-pound, male calf at the Oregon Zoo at 3:56 p.m.
on Aug 23. The first-time mother seemed confused during the birth and showed
aggression to the calf. Veterinarians and keeper staff quickly intervened,
but reintroduction efforts are now underway.
"The baby is calling to his mom and she's calling back," said Mike Keele,
the zoo's deputy director and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' species
survival plan coordinator for Asian elephants. "Our veterinarians have
examined the calf to see if he sustained any injuries, however from the
behavioral signs we've seen thus far, we're very hopeful."
Keele believes that because Rose-Tu had never seen a birth before, she
became confused when the baby was born.
"After several failed but energetic attempts, the calf finally stood up and
took his first few steps," said Keele. "He has a good suckle response and
took water from a keeper's finger within the first hour after birth," he
added.
Rose-Tu is doing well after more than 31 hours of labor, thanks to a daily
exercise regimen that has kept her in top shape.
Keele said that Rose-Tu began showing signs of oncoming labor at 9:30 a.m.
on Aug. 22. Her progesterone levels had dropped to near zero three days
before, a sign that labor had begun.
Rose-Tu, born Aug. 31, 1994, was the most recent elephant born at the zoo.
Rose-Tu is a popular elephant within the herd and with her keepers. She is
always looking to tease her herd mates and shares a strong friendship with
Chendra, who is nearly the same age. Rose-Tu is the second smallest elephant
in the herd, weighing about 7,600 pounds. She conceived in late 2006.
The Oregon Zoo has a renowned breeding program for endangered Asian
elephants. More than 25 elephants have been born at the zoo, beginning with
Packy in 1962.
 |
Rose-Tu's new baby. Photo by Michael Durham © Oregon Zoo. |
As the infant grows older, father Tusko - a 13,500-pound, 36-year-old Asian
elephant - will be introduced and allowed to interact with him, as well.
Tusko arrived at the zoo in June 2005 on a breeding loan. He has
successfully sired three calves in the past -- two while living in Canada
and one in California.
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan for Asian
elephants recommended that Rose-Tu be bred with Tusko. The AZA, of which the
Oregon Zoo is an accredited member, strives to maintain a sustainable
population of the endangered elephants in North America. Currently, birth
rates are lower than necessary to do so. With few bulls and low birth
rates -- combined with an aging female population -- the North American
elephant population is at of risk becoming extinct.
In the late 1990s, scientists warned zoos that unless a reproductive
management program was undertaken, North America was in danger of not
sustaining a viable elephant population. Statistics indicate that if females
do not become pregnant by the age of 25, their ability to reproduce is
severely diminished.
An endangered species, Asian elephants are represented by an estimated
38,000 to 51,000 individuals living in fragmented populations in the wild.
Agriculture, deforestation and conflict with humans pose a constant threat
to wild Asian elephants.
August 22, 2008
Elephant baby on the way
Rose-Tu has gone into labor; baby expected in 24 hours
 |
Asian elephant Rose-Tu enjoys a swim at the Oregon Zoo. Photo by Michael Durham © Oregon Zoo. |
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Zookeepers and veterinarians at the Oregon Zoo are on alert this morning, as Rose-Tu continues to show signs of the onset of labor. Rose-Tu's due date was mid-September so the first signs of labor were somewhat of a surprise to watchful keepers.
"With a 22-month gestation period, it is not unusual to have dates vary by a month or more," says Mitch Finnegan, the zoo's lead veterinarian.
Finnegan believes the birth may take place sometime within the next 24 hours. Signs of Rose-Tu's labor include mucous discharge and a drop in her blood progesterone levels.
"The birth of a new baby is the most enriching thing that can happen in an elephant herd," said Mike Keele, the zoo's deputy director, and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan coordinator for Asian elephants. "If all goes well, and we hope it will, the rest of the herd will tightly bond and protect the baby as if it were their own. There are some risks associated with being a first-time mother, but we're hopeful."
With more than 30 years of zoo experience, Keele is keenly aware that there is a 30 percent infant mortality rate among captive Asian elephants. There is no reliable data on the infant mortality rate in the wild.
 |
Rose-Tu, left, and Tusko share a moment at the Oregon Zoo's Asian elephant exhibit. Photo by Mackenzie Reed © Oregon Zoo. |
"There can be complications to both mother and calf," said Keele. "A calf may be stillborn or get lodged in the birthing canal. We'll be monitoring her pregnancy very closely."
If the birth is successful, the baby will be Rose-Tu's first, and it will be the 28th baby elephant born at the Oregon Zoo. The father is Tusko.
Baby elephants normally weigh 225 to 325 pounds; however, when Rose-Tu was born she weighed 184 pounds. Elephants are able to stand within 45 minutes of birth.
If healthy, the new baby could be in the elephant viewing room, ready to see zoo visitors in a couple of days.
However, Finnegan warns that these things are on their own schedule.
"We're just waiting on Rose-Tu now. Even though Tusko sired this calf, there are a lot of expectant fathers here," Finnegan said.
Rose-Tu, born Aug. 31, 1994, was the last elephant born at the zoo. She is a popular elephant within the herd and with her keepers. She is always looking to tease her herd mates and shares a strong friendship with Chendra, who is nearly the same age. Rose-Tu is the second-smallest elephant in the herd, weighing about 7,600 pounds.
Tusko arrived at the zoo in June 2005 on a breeding loan. He has sired three calves in the past -- two while living in Canada and one in California.
In the fall of 2006, Tusko was introduced to Rose-Tu in hopes the two would make a love connection. The zoo monitors the female elephants' ovulatory cycles closely and planned the introduction for the appropriate time.
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan for Asian elephants recommended that Rose-Tu be bred with Tusko. The AZA, of which the Oregon Zoo is an accredited member, strives to maintain a sustainable population of the endangered elephants in North America. Currently, birth rates are lower than necessary to do so. With few bulls and low birth rates - combined with an aging female population - the North American elephant population is at of risk becoming extinct.
In the late 1990s, scientists warned zoos that unless a reproductive management program was undertaken, North America was in danger of not being able to sustain a viable elephant population. Statistics indicate that if females do not become pregnant by the age of 25, their ability to reproduce is severely diminished.
The Oregon Zoo has a renowned breeding program for endangered Asian elephants. More than 25 elephants have been born at the zoo, beginning with Packy in 1962. From 1994 to 2005, the zoo suspended its breeding program because it lacked the space to house four bull elephants. The zoo could not risk the 50 percent chance of having another male, which would grow up to be a powerful bull elephant, with no home in which to place him.
An endangered species, Asian elephants are represented by an estimated 38,000 to 51,000 individuals living in fragmented populations in the wild. Agriculture, deforestation and conflict with humans pose a constant threat to wild Asian elephants.
August 13, 2008
FREE ZOO 'SAFARI' FOR ANYONE 65 OR OVER
Oregon Zoo celebrates seniors with free-admission day, Sept. 16
 |
|
Oregon Zoo visitors (left to right Roberta Prowell, Courtney Newstead, and Wallace Prowell fron King City,) visit with bird trainer Ginny Steingruber and Sundance, the red-tailed hawkduring the zoo's annual Senior Safari. Anyone 65 or over (along with one companion) can visit the zoo for free on Tuesday, Sept. 16, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo. |
PORTLAND, Ore. -- If you yearn for adventure but high prices are keeping you home, the Oregon Zoo may have just the ticket. Anyone 65 or over (along with one companion) can visit for free during the zoo's annual Senior Safari, Tuesday, Sept. 16, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
"So many people associate the zoo with young children and forget that it's here to be enjoyed by everyone," said Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "By offering this free 'safari,' we hope to help older adults reconnect with animals."
Sponsored by Providence Health Plan, Senior Safari provides a day of activities and entertainment planned with people 65 and over in mind.
In the morning, safari-goers can fortify themselves with complimentary coffee and doughnuts (while supplies last). Throughout the day, seniors and their guests can pet pygora goats and Shetland sheep, attend animal talks, ride the zoo train and enjoy special musical performances. A reasonably priced lunch will also be available.
Providence Home and Community Services is providing free wheelchairs for use on a first-come, first-served basis. The supply is limited, so people who need wheelchairs are urged to bring their own if possible. Volunteers will be available to assist with wheelchair navigation.
August 12, 2008
LAST CHANCE TO HANG OUT WITH T. REX AT OREGON ZOO
Blockbuster dinosaur exhibit, 3-D thrill ride to close Sept. 2
 |
A T. rex roars at a young visitor along the Oregon Zoo's dino trail. "Dinosaurs!" presented by Wells Fargo runs through Labor Day, and features 25 animatronic prehistoric creatures that roar, snarl and move with lifelike ferocity. Photo by Michael Durham, courtesy of the Oregon Zoo. |
PORTLAND, Ore. -- The dinosaurs are going extinct … again! Visitors only have through Labor Day to see the Oregon Zoo's collection of giant dinosaurs that roar, snarl, spit and move with lifelike ferocity. The zoo's summer blockbuster exhibit, "Dinosaurs!" presented by Wells Fargo, closes Sept. 2.
Guests travel along an ancient rain-forest trail, surrounded by life-size animatronic dinosaurs. Among the 25 creatures on display, visitors will discover a total of 14 species -- from the impressive brachiosaurus and the fierce T. rex, to the 2-foot-tall compsognathus and the flying pteranodon. The path also features fossil digs, photo-opportunity spots and identification posts geared to all ages.
"Dinosaurs!" has proven the most popular temporary exhibit in the zoo's 121-year history, attracting more than 150,000 visitors since opening in mid-May. The exhibit, presented by Wells Fargo, is also sponsored by KPTV Fox 12, KPDX 49, Z100, K103 Portland's Soft Rock, NewsRadio 1190 KEX, Univision-KUNP TV, KXPD LaX Radio and KXPD TV Azteca-America. Admission is $4 plus regular zoo admission.
To see a video of some of the prehistoric creatures along the zoo's dinosaur trail, visit www.oregonzoo.org/VideoArchive/DinosaurTrail.htm. To see a video of zoo staffers wrangling a ferocious-looking megalosaurus, visit www.oregonzoo.org/VideoArchive/dinosaursArrive08.htm..
Visitors also have until Labor Day to experience the zoo's popular thrill ride, "Dino Island II: Escape From Dino Island." As a volcano threatens to destroy Dino Island, the Earth Science team must rescue Tony, the only male T. rex left in the world. It's a race against time, as the lava flows, cliffs break away and dinosaurs come at riders from every direction. The 3-D thrill ride, produced by SimEx-Iwerks, closes Sept. 2.
"Dino Island II: Escape From Dino Island" plays in the SimEx-Iwerks simulation theater located on the former entry plaza directly across from the Amur tiger exhibit, near the zoo railway station. In addition to regular zoo admission, a $4 ticket is required. Because of the limited number of seats, a maximum of 800 visitors per day are able to experience the ride.
Nearly 372,000 people have experienced the zoo's simulation theater since it premiered in May 2003, generating nearly $1.5 million for many conservation and education programs at the zoo.
August 11, 2008
OREGON ZOO WELCOMES FIRST BABY SAKI MONKEY
Parents Jackie and Bam-Bam are keeping newborn close
PORTLAND, Ore. -- The first pale-faced saki monkey to be born at the Oregon Zoo arrived in the early morning hours Thursday, Aug. 7. The parents, 15-year-olds Jackie and Bam-Bam, have kept the newborn close, so keepers have been unable to determine the baby's gender.
Jackie had a great pregnancy and birthing, and we are happy and excited about this new addition to the saki community," said David Thomas, senior primate keeper.
Jackie carried the baby for about five and a half months, a typical term for saki monkeys, Thomas said. She and Bam-Bam have had two other babies together, but this their first since arriving at the Oregon Zoo from Mississippi's Jackson Zoological Park in October 2000.
The family resides in the zoo's Amazon Flooded Forest exhibit, and -- thanks to repairs currently taking place -- visitors may have better-than-usual viewing opportunities. The aquatic animals that usually share the exhibit space with the monkeys have been moved to a separate holding area while a window is being repaired.
Pale-faced saki monkeys are found in tropical rain forests in southern and eastern Venezuela, Guianas, and northeastern Brazil. These shaggy primates tend to be small, fast and shy. Males are black with white faces; females are brown with white stripes on their faces. Although the monkeys are not endangered, their habitat is threatened by human destruction of rain forests.
August 7, 2008
Zoo Dinos Draw Record Crowds; Exhibit to Close Sept. 2
Despite shaky economy, lifelike prehistoric creatures are captivating visitors
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A hard-hitting pachycephalosaurus challenges another of its kind in a territorial dispute at the Oregon Zoo. The popular dino exhibit ends Sept. 2. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo. |
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Since its roaring premier in mid-May, "Dinosaurs!" has proven the most popular temporary exhibit in the Oregon Zoo's 121-year history. Visitors have a little longer to walk the prehistoric trail, as the dino exhibit closes Sept. 2.
Since the exhibit's opening, more than a third of zoo visitors have walked along the dinosaur trail. Attendance for "Dinosaurs!" has easily outpaced that of "Winged Wonders," previously the zoo's most popular seasonal offering; the much-admired butterfly exhibit drew 21 percent of zoo visitors in 2002.
"More than 150,000 visitors have come face-to-face with our gigantic, prehistoric beasts, despite a fickle economy," said Carmen Hannold, the zoo's deputy director of operations.
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A life-size T. rex (45 feet long) can be found along the Oregon Zoo's dinosaur trail. The popular dino exhibit ends Sept. 2. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo. |
Guests travel along an ancient rain-forest trail, surrounded by more than 25 life-size animatronic dinosaurs. Along the way, massive footprints signal the proximity of the most fearsome prehistoric predator of all: Tyrannosaurus rex. Other favorites include megalosaurus and deinonychus, with their sharp teeth and ferocious claws. The path also features activity stations with fossil digs. Additional dino-themed attractions at the zoo, such as the dino train and "Dino Island" thrill ride, have attracted more than 80,000 dinosaur enthusiasts.
"Dinosaurs!" presented by Wells Fargo is also sponsored by KPTV Fox 12, KPDX 49, Z100, K103 Portland's Soft Rock, NewsRadio 1190 KEX, Univision-KUNP TV, KXPD LaX Radio and KXPD TV Azteca-America. Admission is $4 plus regular zoo admission.
To see a video of some of the prehistoric creatures along the zoo's dinosaur trail, visit www.oregonzoo.org/VideoArchive/DinosaurTrail.htm. To see a video of zoo staffers wrangling a ferocious-looking megalosaurus, visit dinosaursArrive08.htm.
August 5, 2008
Dinosaur Discount Day at the Zoo
Nearly everything dino-themed is $2 on Aug. 12
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A T. rex roars at Andy, a 7-year-old visiting the Oregon Zoo's dinosaur trail. Guests can enjoy the popular dino exhibit for the discounted price of $2 on Aug. 12, as part of the zoo's Second Tuesdays celebration. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo. |
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Zoogoers and dinosaur fans are in for some gigantic savings this month. On Aug. 12, the Oregon Zoo celebrates its new Second Tuesdays program with $2 general admission plus $2 admission to three of its popular dino-themed attractions.
For just $2 apiece, visitors can walk along an ancient rain-forest trail, surrounded by more than 25 life-size animatronic dinosaurs that move and snarl with realistic ferocity; enjoy a jolting journey to "Dino Island" on a 4-D simulator thrill ride; or take a scenic trip on the zoo's dino train.
Visitors can also stop by the zoo's Cascade Outfitters gift shop, Cascade To-Go eatery and AfriCafé on Aug. 12 for additional bargains, such as the following:
• $2 ZooKeys
• $2 dino masks (while supplies last)
• $2 dino pencil with free dino eraser (while supplies last)
• $2 dino popcorn
• $2 off a 32-ounce souvenir dino cup
The Second Tuesdays program, supported by Bank of America, lets visitors tour the zoo for the discounted price of $2 per person on the second Tuesday of each month.
"Second Tuesdays makes the zoo accessible to many people, and is typically our highest-traffic day of the month," said Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "Ilove to see huge attendance numbers, because it means more people are being exposed to our conservation message, as well as to the extraordinary animals that reside here."
For more information about the zoo's dinosaur exhibit, visit dinos/index.htm
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A spitting dilophosaurus waits for unsuspecting visitors along the dinosaur trail at the Oregon Zoo. Guests can enjoy the popular dino exhibit for the discounted price of $2 on Aug. 12, as part of the zoo's Second Tuesdays celebration. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo. |
July 30, 2008
AVETT BROTHERS, SHAWN MULLINS SHOW OFF SOUTHERN ROOTS
Bluegrass rockers, innovative songwriter conclude zoo concert series, Aug. 24
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Shawn Mullins rocks the Oregon Zoo with music inspired by his |
PORTLAND, Ore. -- "Folk punk"? "Grungegrass"? "Indie-roots"? The Avett Brothers' genre-busting take on Americana has left reviewers searching for new descriptions -- and new ways to say "awesome." Local music fans can see for themselves when the band plays the Oregon Zoo Sunday, Aug. 24, at 7p.m., concluding the zoo's summer concert series presented by Fred Meyer and Wells Fargo. Also on the bill: alt-folk troubadour Shawn Mullins.
"The Avett Brothers take the traditional sounds you might expect from well-traveled bluegrass and country stars, then add an edge that surprises and thrills," said Krista Swan, zoo events coordinator.
Southern-born siblings Scott and Seth Avett began delving into country and bluegrass during breaks from their North Carolina rock band, Nemo. As they became more and more comfortable with the stylistic techniques of other genres, they joined upright bassist and vocalist Bob Crawford to form the Avett Brothers.
The Avetts' 2007 album "Emotionalism" reached No. 1 on Billboard's Heatseekers chart, and featured the pithy song "The Ballad of Love and Hate." The band is currently touring in support of its new EP, "The Second Gleam," released July 22.
To see a video of the Avett Brothers performing "Talk On Indolence," visit www.oregonzoo.org/VideoArchive/Concerts/Avettbros.htm.
Like the Avett Brothers, Shawn Mullins draws inspiration from his Southern roots. Born in Atlanta, Mullins left a military career to pursue his musical ambitions. His songs reflect the life experiences of a well-worn traveler.
Mullins' 1998 breakthrough album, "Soul's Core," went platinum and featured the Grammy-nominated Top 10 hit "Lullaby." The album was acclaimed both for its acoustic melodies and poignant lyrics. Chuck Eddy of Rolling Stone praised Mullins' "startlingly specific sense of storytelling," noting that the singer's "character sketches exhibit an eye for detail that any journalist would envy."
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The Avett Brothers show how to give bluegrass an attitude at the Oregon Zoo, Sunday, Aug. 24, at 7 p.m., finishing up the zoo's summer concert series presented by Fred Meyer and Wells Fargo. Photo © Stephanie Mirabelli. |
Mullins' latest album, "Honeydew," came out in March, inspired by and recorded in his home state of Georgia.
To see a video of Shawn Mullins' "Beautiful Wreck," visit Concerts/ShawnMullins.htm.
Tickets for the concert can be purchased at the Oregon Zoo for $17 each. Tickets can also be purchased (with service charge) online or at Ticketmaster locations at area Fred Meyer stores. For more information on the concert schedule, to read artists' biographies or purchase tickets, please visit www.oregonzoo.org.
The Oregon Zoo has brought outdoor music to Portland for 30 years. In 1979, the zoo became the first zoo in the nation to host a summer concert series. Since then, the series has become one of the top outdoor events in the Northwest, and is the region's longest-running outdoor series.
Fred Meyer and Wells Fargo are the presenting sponsors of the series. This year's series is also co-sponsored by KINK fm 102 and KATU Television and PDX magazine.
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