November 27 , 2008
PRESENTS FOR PRIMATES
Chimps, orangutans and mandrills enjoy the holiday season at the Oregon Zoo

PORTLAND, Ore. - Primates at the Oregon Zoo will celebrate the holidays a little early this year when Santa's elves (the zoo's primate keepers) present food-filled gift boxes to chimpanzees, orangutans and mandrills on Thursday, Dec. 18, at 10 a.m. Presents for Primates will be repeated at 10 a.m. on Dec. 20 (chimps and mandrills) and Dec. 21 (orangutans).

The zoo's dedicated Volunteer Enrichment Team creates the presents, while keepers and zoo veterinarians plan the contents. Primate treats include dry cereal, nuts,raisins and other dried fruit. The gift boxes are wrapped with paper made of nontoxic materials, and nonadhesive tape is used.

On Dec. 27 and 28 at 10 a.m., Presents for Primates continues, as the chimpanzees and mandrills (Dec. 27) and the orangutans (Dec. 28) receive cardboard "gingerbread" houses. Holes for windows and doorsare cut into the houses, allowingkeepers to hide treats inside themand encourage foraging behaviors. The cardboard houses also provide the animals with opportunities to control something in their environment, even if it is the opportunity to "deconstruct" them.

Web visitors can watch a previous year's Presents for Primates enrichment activities at www.oregonzoo.org/VideoArchive/Primates.htm.

Enrichment items such as these gift boxes and gingerbread houses are used to encourage hunting and foraging behaviors. This is the seventh year that the primates have received boxed and wrapped food items for the holidays, but providing enrichment is a routine task for zookeepers. The Oregon Zoo is known internationally for its enrichment programs, and zoo staff anticipates seeing playful, predatory and otherwise interesting activity from the animals.

The other primates (zoo visitors) can enjoy the holiday season during the zoo's 21st annual ZooLights, which runs through Dec. 28. ZooLights is a family tradition featuring life-size animal silhouettes, trees, buildings, walkways and the zoo train - decorated with more than a million holiday lights.

For a preview of the light display, visit www.oregonzoo.org/Events/ZooLights/preview.htm.

ZooLights is presented by The Boeing Company with additional support from Fox 12, PDX TV, Clear Channel Radio 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 $10 for adults (12-64), $8.50 for seniors (65 and older), $7 for children (3-11), and free for children under 3.

November 26 , 2008
ZOOLIGHTS' HOLIDAY TRADITION RESUMES AT OREGON ZOO
Zoo hosts 21st annual festival, Nov. 29

PORTLAND, Ore. - When the animals go to bed, the lights come out to play.

This fall, more than a million bright bulbs will illuminate the zoo for the 21st annual ZooLights festival, beginning Nov. 29 at 5 p.m. This family tradition, presented by The Boeing Company, features life-size animal silhouettes and moving light sculptures on display throughout the zoo.

Families can expect to see their old favorites as well as some new surprises - including unicorns, dinosaurs and an animated, roaring lion in honor of the upcoming Predators of the Serengeti exhibit, scheduled to open in 2009.

Other new displays include dinosaurs, a baby elephant and a California condor chick. These are only a few new features at ZooLights this year. Many of the lights this year will be made up of LED's, which use about a tenth of the power of normal iridescent bulbs.

 
"Every year, the zoo presents a stunning display of light and color," says Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "I know many people in our community eagerly anticipate ZooLights, and look forward to seeing the many new touches we add each year. It's so gratifying to know the zoo has become an important holiday tradition to so many families."

The entry plaza transports guests to Bremen, Germany, with a glowing replica of its statue depicting the four farm animals from the Brothers Grimm fairy tale "The Bremen Town Musicians." As folks work their way from the plaza down the boardwalk, they'll encounter classic ZooLights scenes such as leaping reindeer and tobogganing polar bears.

A right turn from the boardwalk deposits guests at the wheels of the famous Oregon Steamer train, decked out in luminous finery for a holiday express jaunt around the zoo.

Visitors can continue on through Tiger Plaza to meet up with Dorothy, Toto, the Cowardly Lion, and the good and wicked witches from the Land of Oz, relocated this year via a revamped cyclone in lights near the zoo's Trillium Creek Family Farm.

Life-size, three-dimensional beasts linger on the zoo's concert lawn, which has been transformed into a 180-foot-long meandering river of light. Hippos graze near the water while crocodiles lie in wait, ready to snap their jaws on unsuspecting prey. From above, an African fish eagle swoops down and scoops fish from the river.

Much-loved displays from previous years make an encore appearance, including a larger model train exhibit, trumpeting elephants and swinging siamangs. Visitors can dodge a dangling anaconda, watch playful penguins dive into arctic waters, and pass beneath a 35-foot-long dragon.

A huge polar bear, rebuilt and brighter than ever, makes his reappearance this year in recognition of the Year of the Polar Bear.

Music fanatics can enjoy the highly animated light silhouette of Mick Jaguar, who performs near the picnic area 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.

Live music will resound throughout the zoo as well, with more than 100 schools, churches, professional groups and local dance troupes performing holiday musical selections.

Popular costumed characters and elves will 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 as they mingle among guests. Some of the zoo's animals will also be visible, including mountain goats, elephants, primates, and pettable sheep and goats.

For last-minute shoppers, the zoo's gift shop is bursting with animal-related gifts. Paintings by the zoo's talented elephant Rama are available for purchase on zoo grounds during festival hours.

The Cascade Grill serves a holiday buffet on select nights and offers a limited menu on evenings when the buffet is not available. AfriCafe and food carts throughout the zoo will provide holiday treats and warm beverages every night during ZooLights.


For a preview of the light display, visit www.oregonzoo.org/Events/ZooLights/preview.htm.

ZooLights runs Nov. 29 through Dec. 28, and is presented by The Boeing Company with additional support from Fox 12, PDX TV, Clear Channel Radio 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., 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 the gates close. The festival is closed Dec. 24-25.

ZooLights package tickets, which include admission and a train ride, are $10 for adults (12-64), $8.50 for seniors (65 and older), $7 for children (3-11), and free for children 2 and under.

November 25 , 2008
ZOO EMBRACES  ENERGY-SAVING TECHNOLOGY DURING ZOOLIGHTS
More than 80,000 LEDs added for Oregon Zoo's annual winter festival

PORTLAND, Ore. - One of the Oregon Zoo's favorite holiday attractions is even more eco-friendly this year. ZooLights 2008 features 654,819 LEDs, or light-emitting diodes, which use only a fraction of the energy of conventional bulbs. This year's ZooLights features more than a million lights.

"Few visitors will even notice the difference," said Russell Guinn, the zoo's event technical coordinator. "LEDs give off a slightly different glow, but they are just as beautiful as standard holiday lights." And, Guinn notes, LEDs do not fade and lose their color over time. Since the diodes themselves create the colors, rather than painted bulbs, old LED strings remain as bright and colorful as the day they were purchased.

The zoo has been using LEDs for its ZooLights displays since 2001, and continues to add more each year, replacing its conventional bulbs. LEDs use only about 1 percent of the power of standard (C7) holiday lights, and about 10 percent of the power in mini-lights. About 81,000 LEDs have been added for this year's festival, including nearly a thousand of the C9 LEDs.

"In the past, an animated display may have used standard C9 lights, which use a whopping 18,000 watts of energy," said Guinn. "The new C9 LEDs use only 144 watts of energy. That's an incredible difference."

These eco-friendly displays should also save energy for ZooLights crew members, who won't spend nearly as much time replacing lights and troubleshooting dark strings. With traditional lights - as many a home decorator knows from experience - when one bulb goes out, the entire string goes with it. But LEDs don't burn out the way traditional bulbs do - in fact, they should last as long as the wires, making for very durable light strings. In addition, LEDs are not removable from their strings, making them "practically kid-proof," according to Guinn.

"Previously, there was absolutely no way to prevent visitors from taking bulbs out of strings, and darkening a whole set," he said.

Zoo visitors can enjoy the holiday season during the zoo's 21st annual ZooLights through Dec. 28. ZooLights is a family tradition featuring life-size animal silhouettes, trees, buildings, walkways and the zoo train - decorated with a million holiday lights.

For a preview of the light display, visit www.oregonzoo.org/Events/ZooLights/preview.htm.

ZooLights is presented by The Boeing Company with additional support from Fox 12, PDX TV, Clear Channel Radio 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 $10 for adults (12-64), $8.50 for seniors (65 and older), $7 for children (3-11), and free for children under 3.

November 24 , 2008
OREGON ZOO TO HOST LIVE PERFORMANCES OF CHILDREN'S BOOK
ZooLights leaps into holiday season with live performances of 'One Night in Frogtown'

"One Night in Frogtown" Author Philip Pelletier (left) along with Frogtown artists Heather Christie and Fogatron (aka "Frogatron") with a giant frog at the Oregon Zoo. Pelletier presents three live performances of the book Dec. 12-14 at 7 p.m. in Classroom 3 (near the zoo's FROGS! exhibit). Photo by Michael Durham. © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. - The pages of the new musical storybook "One Night in Frogtown" will hop to life at the Oregon Zoo, with three days of live performances during ZooLights.

The "Frogtown" event will feature storytelling, a "Frogtown" movie and live performances by some of the musicians appearing on the book's CD soundtrack. Portland artist Verne Lindner's acclaimed illustrations for the book will serve as a backdrop to the evening's festivities. Performances take place Dec. 12-14 at 7 p.m. in Classroom 3 (near the zoo's FROGS! exhibit) and are free with zoo admission.

"One Night in Frogtown," the latest creation of composer-director Philip Pelletier, brings together local musicians from the worlds of classical, jazz, R&B and hip-hop to tell a unique story about the value of cultural diversity. Featuring both text and a CD, "Frogtown" takes readers on a journey with a tadpole named Tad as he tries make music with the big frogs. Themes of friendship, understanding and fitting in are highlighted along the way.

"I've always been fascinated with frogs," Pelletier said. "Frogs have had a spiritual significance in many cultures since ancient times. I wanted to explore and share that significance."

"Not only will visitors get to meet the creators of 'One Night in Frogtown,' listen to some great music and hear a heartwarming story, they'll also get an imaginative view of the world of frogs," said Krista Swan, zoo event coordinator. "Hopefully, that glimpse will inspire people to learn more about these amphibians and support conservation efforts to save them."

As the world's frogs vanish at an alarming rate, a few species are now appearing at the zoo's temporary FROGS! exhibit, designed to teach the public about the perils faced by amphibian populations everywhere.

"As many as 165 amphibian species may be extinct," said Tony Vecchio, zoo director. Without an immediate intervention, one-third to one-half of the world's amphibian species could become extinct in our lifetime. This would constitute an extinction comparable to that of the dinosaurs."

The exhibit offers a look at the Oregon spotted frog, which has captured the attention of conservationists as the most threatened frog in the region. Other frogs on display include the brightly colored poison dart frog, native to Central and South America, and the Vietnamese mossy frog, which is covered with bumps, spines and tubercles, helping it blend in with moss and lichen to avoid predators.

FROGS! runs through Dec. 28 and is free with zoo admission. Exhibit hours are 2:30 to 8 p.m. daily during ZooLights.

The zoo, along with Powell's Books, will also present a "Frogtown Live! Holiday Spectacular" Saturday, Dec. 6, at 2 p.m. at the Bagdad Theater. Tickets for this event are $5 and can be purchased at the Bagdad Theater, the Crystal Ballroom and all Ticketmaster locations. For more information, visit www.frogtowncentral.com. To watch a video about the "Frogtown Live!" event, visit www.oregonzoo.org/VideoArchive/FrogtownVNR.htm.

November 24 , 2008
OREGON ZOO CELEBRATES THANKSGIVING WITH THE ANIMALS
Animals receive enrichment activities and treats to enhance the holiday season

PORTLAND, Ore. - On Nov. 26 and 27, Oregon Zoo animals will celebrate Thanksgiving witha cornucopia of enrichment activities aimed at stimulating their minds as well as their stomachs.

Over the course of two days, the zoo's meerkats, Amur tigers, sun bears and black bearsreceive large papier-mâché turkeys and Thanksgiving platters filled with an assortment of delectable delicacies.

The zoo will also hold an open house on Thanksgiving Day,with free admission, so that visitors can learn more about the zoo, its programs and animals.

"Not only will everyone have the unique opportunity to see the animals as they interact with their enrichment activities, they'll also have the chance to learn firsthand about the zoo's programs and how the recent passing of the $125 million bond measure will help improve the overall conditions for the animals," Vecchio said.

The zoo uses enrichment to keep animals mentally and physically stimulated, and to encourage hunting and foraging behaviors. Treats are designed with the specific animals in mind to maximize their enrichment. The Oregon Zoo Volunteer Enrichment Team created all of this year's animal enrichment activities.

"Enrichment is critical to the health and well-being of the animals," said Tony Vecchio, Oregon Zoo director. "It is often done behind the scenes, but the holiday season provides visitors with some unique opportunities to watch animals interact with their Thanksgiving treats."

At 10:30 a.m. Nov. 26, the zoo's meerkats will receive papier-mâché turkeys filled with mealworms and crickets; the black bears receive their treats at 11 a.m. On Thanksgiving Day, the sun bears and the Amur tigers receive enrichment treats at 10:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. respectively.

"The animals really enjoy their enrichment activities," Vecchio said. "They show a great deal of intelligence as they work to get their treats and it's obvious they benefit from it."

Thanksgiving events begin early on Thursday as the Oregon Zoo hosts the annual Turkey Trot, organized by the Oregon Road Runners Club. The event includes a four-mile run and fitness walk, starting at 8 a.m., followed by a one-kilometer "Tot Trot" at 9:30 a.m.

November 21 , 2008
OREGON ZOO TO HOST BOOK SIGNING
ZooLights leaps into holiday season with 'Frogtown' authors, musicians

Composer-director Philip Pelletier is joined in his studio by some of the whimsical characters from "One Night in Frogtown," his new musical storybook. Pelletier and friends will be signing copies of the book at the Oregon Zoo's gift shop Dec. 12-14.

PORTLAND, Ore. - Oregon Zoo visitors can meet the talent behind "One Night in Frogtown," a new musical storybook for children, as author Philip Pelletier and illustrator Verne Lindner sit down to sign and talk about their work.

Signings take place Dec. 12-14, from 4 to 5:30 p.m., in the zoo gift shop. A portion of proceeds from the book's sales will go toward frog conservation and education.

"One Night in Frogtown," the latest creation of composer-director Pelletier, brings together local musicians from the worlds of classical, jazz, R&B and hip-hop to tell a unique story about the value of cultural diversity. Featuring both text and a CD, "Frogtown" takes readers on a journey with a tadpole named Tad as he tries make music with the big frogs. Themes of friendship, understanding and fitting in are highlighted along the way.

"I feel kids can relate to the natural innocence and curiosity that Tad's character shows," Pelletier said. "As a composer, I enjoy working with different musical genres and making them accessible to people who may have no experience with them."

After the book signing, guests who venture into the zoo for ZooLights can also attend a live performance of "One Night in Frogtown" featuring musicians from the book's CD soundtrack. Performances take placed. 12-14 at 7 p.m. at the zoo's FROGS! exhibit and are free with zoo admission.

"Not only will visitors get to meet the creators of 'One Night in Frogtown,' listen to some great music and hear a heartwarming story, they'll also get an imaginative view of the world of frogs," said Krista Swan, zoo event coordinator. "Hopefully, that glimpse will inspire people to learn more about these amphibians and support conservation efforts to save them."

As the world's frogs vanish at an alarming rate, a few species are now appearing at the zoo's temporary FROGS! exhibit, designed to teach the public about the perils faced by amphibian populations everywhere.

"As many as 165 amphibian species may be extinct," said Tony Vecchio, zoo director."Without an immediate intervention, one-third to one-half of the world's amphibian species could become extinct in our lifetime. This would constitute an extinction comparable to that of the dinosaurs."

The exhibit offers a look at the Oregon spotted frog, which has captured the attention of conservationists as the most threatened frog in the region. Other frogs on display include the brightly colored poison dart frog, native to Central and South America, and the Vietnamese mossy frog, which is covered with bumps, spines and tubercles, helping it blend in with moss and lichen to avoid predators.

FROGS! runs through Dec. 28 and is free with zoo admission. Exhibit hours are 2:30 to 8 p.m. daily during ZooLights.

The zoo, along with Powell's Books, will also present a "Frogtown Live! Holiday Spectacular" Saturday, Dec. 6, at 2 p.m. at the Bagdad Theater. Tickets for this event are $5 and can be purchased at the Bagdad Theater, the Crystal Ballroom and all Ticketmaster locations. For more information, visit www.frogtowncentral.com. To watch a video about the "Frogtown Live!" event, visit http://www.oregonzoo.org/VideoArchive/FrogtownVNR.htm.

November 18 , 2008
ZOO TO HOLD OPEN HOUSE WITH FREE ADMISSION ON THANKSGIVING DAY
Portland-area voters recently approved $125 million bond to update some animal exhibits

The Oregon Zoo plans to expand Samudra's (and the other six elephants') habitat from 1.5 acres to six. Other animal areas that will be updated include chimpanzees, polar bears, penguins and hippos. The $125 million bond measure will also make the zoo more sustainable in its operations. Photo by Michael Durham. © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. - In appreciation for the public's generous support of the $125 million bond measure to improve outdated exhibits and make the Oregon Zoo more sustainable, the zoo is holding an open house on Thanksgiving Day, with free admission, so that visitors can learn more about the zoo and its programs.

"The zoo plays an important role in our community, creating a better future for wildlife through conservation and education," said Metro Council President David Bragdon. "Despite economic uncertainty, the public recognizes the value of the zoo and the need to improve conditions for the animals. An open house at the zoo is one way of showing our appreciation for the public's continued support of the zoo and its mission."

From polar bears in the frigid Arctic to elephants in the forests of Asia, Thanksgiving Day visitors can visit animals from around the world in an afternoon at their zoo. Visitors can trek through the tropics amid the sounds of birds and monkeys. They can travel through the African savanna, where giraffes, zebras, hippos and rhino graze. They can visit the penguins of Peru and come nose to nose with bald eagles, black bears and cougars of the Great Northwest. They can even visit the charismatic animals of Asia such as the Amur tigers, Malayan sun bears, and warty and babirusa pigs.

"We're thrilled about the zoo's future and what the bond measure will allow us to accomplish," said Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "We hope the public will visit us on Thanksgiving Day so we can show how much we appreciate their support. We're so very lucky to have the love and steadfast support of our community."

According to Vecchio, the $125 million bond measure will fund five areas:

- Providing more humane care for animals by updating the elephant, primate and polar bear enclosures.

- Protecting animal health and safety by modernizing the zoo's substandard 45-year-old animal clinic, which was deemed deficient by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

- Increasing access to conservation education by providing more space for summer camps, classes and hands-on learning for kids, adults and families.

- Improving water quality by replacing the 1950s-era sewer system, while reducing pollution by separating sewage from storm water. The zoo would also harvest rain runoff for reuse.

- Conserving energy and water. Reusing water by installing water-recycling filtration systems, while replacing leaky, worn-out plumbing and irrigation systems. These changes will save 11 million gallons of water annually.

Vecchio added that accountability requirements are built into the bond, which include internal audits, an annual independent financial audit published in local media, and the creation of a citizen oversight committee to monitor spending and recommend project modifications if needed.

The bond cost estimate is less than 9 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value per year. The average homeowner in the region will pay $1.40 per month. The average cost per household will be $16.80 for an assessed home valued at $190,000. The average Metro region assessed property value is $190,000. Bonds mature in 21 years or less.

"The zoo is a great place with a terrific staff and volunteer corps," added Vecchio. "We're excited to make the zoo even better with the broad support and trust of our citizens."

November 18 , 2008
CRITICALLY ILL AMUR LEOPARD EUTHANIZED
Rare leopard had terminal cancer

PORTLAND, Ore. - This morning, Oregon Zoo veterinarians euthanized Fred, a 17-year-old, geriatric Amur leopard, who had been suffering from an aggressive form of terminal cancer. Veterinarians and zookeepers were by his side when he died. The staff is deeply saddened by his passing.

"We had a lot of people involved in managing Fred's care," said Chris Pfefferkorn, general curator. "It became apparent that his quality of life was not improving, despite the best efforts of all involved. Zoo veterinarians and staff determined that the only humane thing to do was to euthanize him."

In September, zoo veterinarians performed surgery on Fred and discovered a tumor, which they immediately removed. Chemotherapy was begun to try to eradicate the cancer. However, during his third dose, veterinarians discovered the tumors had reappeared.

Pfefferkorn reflected on the loss: "Losing Fred is extremely difficult for everyone involved in his care. He was a very special cat and a wonderful ambassador for his critically endangered species. He will be sorely missed."

 
Fred's remains will undergo a post-mortem examination known as a necropsy.

"Fred could help improve the understanding of cancer in leopards," said Pfefferkorn. "Studying his remains can provide important insight. Through a comprehensive necropsy, we hope to discover clues on how we can improve the health and welfare of the world's few remaining Amur leopards."

Fred came to Portland in April 2000 from the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs, Colo. His arrival was considered a first step in returning big cats to the Oregon Zoo after major exhibit construction had necessitated removal of the old feline building.

Kia, a 12-year-old female Amur leopard who shared Fred's exhibit space, remains at the zoo. She and Fred were not a breeding pair. Kia came to Portland last year to help create more breeding space at her former home, the Erie Zoo in Pennsylvania.

Amur leopards have a life expectancy of about 15 to 19 years in captivity. Native to eastern Russia, they are considered critically endangered, with only about 35 to 45 of the animals left in the wild.

Also known as the Manchurian or Korean leopard, the species has slowly drifted from Korea, its original habitat, to China and finally to eastern Russia, where zoologists say it is making a last stand.  Its habitat today is mainly the mountains along Siberia's Amur River Valley, where habitat destruction and loss of prey species have greatly reduced its numbers.

Amur leopards are mostly nocturnal and are "opportunistic" hunters, taking whatever kind of prey they can handle. Deer and boars are major food favorites. Adult leopards usually weigh 75 to 100 pounds and stand about 3 feet high. Like their African cousins, Amur leopards have tawny coats spotted with many widely spaced, thick-bordered rosettes. The Russian leopards, however, have a more intense coloring and longer fur, allowing them to survive in cold and snowy areas.

November 14 , 2008
ZOO EMBRACES  ENERGY-SAVING TECHNOLOGY DURING ZOOLIGHTS
More than 80,000 LEDs added for Oregon Zoo's annual winter festival

PORTLAND, Ore. - One of the Oregon Zoo's favorite holiday attractions is even more eco-friendly this year. ZooLights 2008 features 654,819 LEDs, or light-emitting diodes, which use only a fraction of the energy of conventional bulbs. This year's ZooLights runs Nov. 29 through Dec. 28 and features more than a million lights.

"Few visitors will even notice the difference," said Russell Guinn, the zoo's event technical coordinator. "LEDs give off a slightly different glow, but they are just as beautiful as standard holiday lights." And, Guinn notes, LEDs do not fade and lose their color over time. Since the diodes themselves create the colors, rather than painted bulbs, old LED strings remain as bright and colorful as the day they were purchased.

The zoo has been using LEDs for its ZooLights displays since 2001, and continues to add more each year, replacing its conventional bulbs. LEDs use only about 1 percent of the power of standard (C7) holiday lights, and about 10 percent of the power in mini-lights. About 81,000 LEDs have been added for this year's festival, including nearly a thousand of the C9 LEDs.

"In the past, an animated display may have used standard C9 lights, which use a whopping 18,000 watts of energy," said Guinn. "The new C9 LEDs use only 144 watts of energy. That's an incredible difference."

These eco-friendly displays should also save energy for ZooLights crew members, who won't spend nearly as much time replacing lights and troubleshooting dark strings. With traditional lights - as many a home decorator knows from experience - when one bulb goes out, the entire string goes with it. But LEDs don't burn out the way traditional bulbs do - in fact, they should last as long as the wires, making for very durable light strings. In addition, LEDs are not removable from their strings, making them "practically kid-proof," according to Guinn.

"Previously, there was absolutely no way to prevent visitors from taking bulbs out of strings, and darkening a whole set," he said.

Zoo visitors can enjoy the holiday season during the zoo's 21st annual ZooLights through Dec. 28. ZooLights is a family tradition featuring life-size animal silhouettes, trees, buildings, walkways and the zoo train - decorated with a million holiday lights.

For a preview of the light display, visit www.oregonzoo.org/Events/ZooLights/preview.htm.

ZooLights is presented by The Boeing Company with additional support from Fox 12, PDX TV, Clear Channel Radio 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 $10 for adults (12-64), $8.50 for seniors (65 and older), $7 for children (3-11), and free for children under 3.

November 6 , 2008
ZOOLIGHTS' HOLIDAY TRADITION RESUMES AT OREGON ZOO
Zoo hosts 21st annual festival, Nov. 29

PORTLAND, Ore. - When the animals go to bed, the lights come out to play.

This fall, more than a million bright bulbs will illuminate the zoo for the 21st annual ZooLights festival, beginning Nov. 29 at 5 p.m. This family tradition, presented by The Boeing Company, features life-size animal silhouettes and moving light sculptures on display throughout the zoo.

Families can expect to see their old favorites as well as some new surprises - including unicorns, dinosaurs and an animated, roaring lion in honor of the upcoming Predators of the Serengeti exhibit, scheduled to open in 2009.

Other new displays include dinosaurs, a baby elephant and a California condor chick. These are only a few new features at ZooLights this year. Many of the lights this year will be made up of LED's, which use about a tenth of the power of normal iridescent bulbs.

 
"Every year, the zoo presents a stunning display of light and color," says Tony Vecchio, zoo director. "I know many people in our community eagerly anticipate ZooLights, and look forward to seeing the many new touches we add each year. It's so gratifying to know the zoo has become an important holiday tradition to so many families."

The entry plaza transports guests to Bremen, Germany, with a glowing replica of its statue depicting the four farm animals from the Brothers Grimm fairy tale "The Bremen Town Musicians." As folks work their way from the plaza down the boardwalk, they'll encounter classic ZooLights scenes such as leaping reindeer and tobogganing polar bears.

A right turn from the boardwalk deposits guests at the wheels of the famous Oregon Steamer train, decked out in luminous finery for a holiday express jaunt around the zoo.

Visitors can continue on through Tiger Plaza to meet up with Dorothy, Toto, the Cowardly Lion, and the good and wicked witches from the Land of Oz, relocated this year via a revamped cyclone in lights near the zoo's Trillium Creek Family Farm.

Life-size, three-dimensional beasts linger on the zoo's concert lawn, which has been transformed into a 180-foot-long meandering river of light. Hippos graze near the water while crocodiles lie in wait, ready to snap their jaws on unsuspecting prey. From above, an African fish eagle swoops down and scoops fish from the river.

Much-loved displays from previous years make an encore appearance, including a larger model train exhibit, trumpeting elephants and swinging siamangs. Visitors can dodge a dangling anaconda, watch playful penguins dive into arctic waters, and pass beneath a 35-foot-long dragon.

A huge polar bear, rebuilt and brighter than ever, makes his reappearance this year in recognition of the Year of the Polar Bear.

Music fanatics can enjoy the highly animated light silhouette of Mick Jaguar, who performs near the picnic area 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.

Live music will resound throughout the zoo as well, with more than 100 schools, churches, professional groups and local dance troupes performing holiday musical selections.

Popular costumed characters and elves will 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 as they mingle among guests. Some of the zoo's animals will also be visible, including mountain goats, elephants, primates, and pettable sheep and goats.

For last-minute shoppers, the zoo's gift shop is bursting with animal-related gifts. Paintings by the zoo's talented elephant Rama are available for purchase on zoo grounds during festival hours.

The Cascade Grill serves a holiday buffet on select nights and offers a limited menu on evenings when the buffet is not available. AfriCafe and food carts throughout the zoo will provide holiday treats and warm beverages every night during ZooLights.

To see a preview of the light display, visit www.oregonzoo.org/Events/ZooLights/preview.htm.

ZooLights runs Nov. 29 through Dec. 28, and is presented by The Boeing Company with additional support from KPTV, PDX 49, Clear Channel Radio 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. 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 the gates close. The festival is closed Dec. 24-25.

ZooLights package tickets, which include admission and a train ride, are $10 for adults (12-64), $8.50 for seniors (65 and older), $7 for children (3-11), and free for children 2 and under.

November 5 , 2008
OREGON ZOO WINS TWO NATIONAL 'EXCELLENCE IN ENRICHMENT' AWARDS
Zoo staffer, volunteers honored by national zookeepers association based in Topeka, Kan.

Bree Boothe holds a South American porcupine, part of the Wild Life Live program at the Oregon Zoo. Boothe and the zoo's Volunteer Enrichment Team won national awards for their innovative environmental enrichment programs designed to mentally and physically stimulate zoo animals. Photo by Michael Durham. © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore.- Oregon Zoo staff member Bree Boothe and the zoo's Volunteer Enrichment Team have both been honored with the Lee Houts Excellence in Enrichment Award. The award, presented at the35th annual American Association of Zoo Keepers conference in Salt Lake City, recognizes keeper-initiated contributions to the art and science of environmental enrichment.

"We couldn't be prouder of Bree and the entire Volunteer Enrichment Team for providing the animals with rich and stimulating lives during their stay at the Oregon Zoo," said Tony Vecchio, zoo director. Enrichment activities prevent boredom and keep animals moving and thinking."

Bree Boothe and the Oregon Zoo's Volunteer Enrichment Team won national awards for their innovative environmental enrichment programs designed to mentally and physically stimulate zoo animals. Photo by Michael Durham. © Oregon Zoo.

The zoo's "Wild Life Live" show -- an educational demonstration featuring a falcon, hawk, owl, vulture, eagle and green-wing macaw -- is an example of an enrichment program. Boothe structured the program so that every animal receives daily enrichment with items that are novel, complex and encourage species-appropriate behaviors. Boothe's management allowed volunteers to gain understanding and comfort regarding the use of enrichment, and has ultimately promoted the safety and well-being of the animals.

The Volunteer Enrichment Team works closely with keepers to create and implement programs throughout the zoo. Using papier-mâché and other materials, volunteers create items such as sea stars, flying bats, tropical fish, a polar bear maternity den, colorful fruit, boats and wrapped gift boxes for the animals. They reuse old buckets, donated car-wash strips and cardboard to stimulate animal play and interest.

The Oregon Zoo has been a pioneer in providing more meaningful lives for zoo animals through encouraging natural behavior. "When animals don't have to hunt for food or engage in normal activities like playing or exploring, they can quickly become bored, even morose," said Dr. David Shepherdson, who coordinates the zoo's enrichment programs.

For more information on the zoo's Volunteer Enrichment Team, visit www.oregonzoo.org/KidsZone/Enrichment/VolunteerEnrichTeam.htm
The American Association of Zoo Keepers, based in Topeka, Kan., is a nonprofit volunteer organization made up of professional zookeepers and other interested persons dedicated to professional animal care and conservation.

November 4 , 2008
OREGON ZOO BOND MEASURE PASSES
Portland-area voters approve $125 million bond to update some animal exhibits

The Oregon Zoo plans to expand Samudra's (and the other six elephants) habitat from 1.5 acres to six acres. Other animal areas that will be updated include chimpanzees, polar bears, penguins and hippos. The $125-million bond measure will also help make the zoo more sustainable in its operations. Photo by Michael Durham. © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. - The Oregon Zoo's Measure 26-96 has been approved by the Portland-area community to improve outdated exhibits and make the zoo more sustainable.

"The zoo is truly a jewel of our community," said Metro Council President David Bragdon. "I'm so glad the rest of the community values it as highly as I do. We're looking forward to making the zoo an even better place for animals and people."

The $125 million bond measure will fund five areas:

- Providing more humane care for animals by updating the elephant, primate and polar bear enclosures.

- Protecting animal health and safety by modernizing the zoo's substandard 45-year-old animal clinic, which was deemed deficient by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

- Increasing access to conservation education by providing more space for summer camps, classes and hands-on learning for kids, adults and families.

- Improving water quality by replacing the 1950s-era sewer system, while reducing pollution by separating sewage from storm water. The zoo would also harvest rain runoff for reuse.

- Conserving energy and water. Reusing water by installing water-recycling filtration systems (at the hippo and penguin exhibits), while replacing leaky, worn-out plumbing and irrigation systems. These changes will save 11 million gallons of water annually.

"As I spoke to various people in the community, it was evident that there was strong support for the measure," said Zoo Director Tony Vecchio. "We are very pleased that Portland-area voters saw the need to help protect animal health and safety despite tough economic times."

The bond cost estimate is less than 9 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value per year. The average homeowner in the region will pay $1.40 per month. The average cost per household will be $16.80 for an assessed home value at $190,000. The average Metro region assessed property value is $190,000. Bonds mature in 21 years or less.

Accountability requirements include internal audits, an annual independent financial audit published in local media, and the creation of a citizen oversight committee to monitor spending and recommend project modifications if needed.

"We are excited to begin implementing the changes the measure outlined," said Vecchio. "A lot of work needs to be done, and it will take some time to finish all the projects, but we are overjoyed to have the public's generous support."