December 31, 2009
AUDUBON ANNOUNCES WILDLIFE CONSERVATION LECTURE SERIES AT ZOO
Lecturers discuss innovative ways the community can live in harmony with nature

Wildlife specialist Stanley Gehrt, shown here with coyote pup, will discuss "Urban Coyotes" April 27, as part of this year's Wildlife Conservation Lecture Series, hosted by the Audubon Society of Portland, Oregon Zoo and World Forestry Center. The lecture series is held at the zoo and is presented by Pro Photo Supply and Shiels Obletz Johnsen with additional support from Portland General Electric.

PORTLAND, Ore. — Wildlife conservation on urban landscapes is the theme of this year's Wildlife Conservation Lecture Series, hosted by the Audubon Society of Portland, the Oregon Zoo and the World Forestry Center. The lecture series is held at the zoo and is presented by Pro Photo Supply and Shiels Obletz Johnsen with additional support from Portland General Electric.

The host organizations hope the lecture series will strengthen the community's knowledge base on ecological systems and environmental issues — motivating people to make a difference in the environmental future of the region.

On Feb. 16, John Hadidian, director of urban wildlife programs for the Humane Society of the United States, will present "Wild Neighbors: Living With Wildlife on Urban Landscapes." Although "urban wildlife" may seem a contradiction in terms, many wild animals find cities and suburbs to their liking. As populations of synanthropes (as city-loving wild animals are called) grow, conflicts and controversy can result. Communities debate ways to control flooding caused by beavers, stop deer from eating petunias or respond to the occasional black bear wandering down Main Street. Hadidian's talk will look at some of the conflicts caused by wildlife in cities, discuss humane solutions and identify the challenges we face within the context of urban ecology. This lecture is co-sponsored by the Humane Society of the United States.

On March 30, Dusty Gedge, a world-renowned expert on creating urban rooftop habitats, will discuss "Green Roofs and Living Walls for Wildlife." Gedge is the founder of Livingroofs.org and president of the European Federation of Green Roof Associations. He is coauthor of "Building Greener," the first comprehensive guide on green roofs and green walls in the U.K. Gedge's talk will focus on how we can convert our rooftops, big and small, into living landscapes. This lecture is cosponsored by the City of Portland.

California condor expert Chris Parish presents "Returning Condors to Arizona" as part of this year's Wildlife Conservation Lecture Series, hosted by the Audubon Society of Portland, Oregon Zoo and World Forestry Center. The lecture series is held at the zoo and is presented by Pro Photo Supply and Shiels Obletz Johnsen with additional support from Portland General Electric.

On April 13, Chris Parish presents "Returning Condors to Arizona." Parish heads up The Peregrine Fund's field team in Arizona and oversees operations at the condor release site at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. His team tracks the movements of condors in the wild, captures them twice yearly to test blood-lead levels, and assists with treatment for lead poisoning if needed. Parish will discuss the successes of condor reintroduction program in Arizona as well some challenges faced by this experimental population. He will also discuss his work with state agencies and hunter groups in Arizona and Utah to increase awareness of the potential threat of traditional lead ammunition to condors.

On April 27, Stanley Gehrt, assistant professor and extension wildlife specialist at Ohio State University, will discuss "Urban Coyotes." The howl of coyotes echoing across our urban landscape has become increasingly common in recent years. The animal that Navajo sheepherders once called "God's dog" can now be found even in the most urbanized areas. Gehrt's recently completed study of coyotes in Chicago has been hailed as the "most ambitious work of its kind in the country." Over the course of six years, he tracked 220 radio-collared coyotes in the city. Gehrt's talk should provide valuable insights for wildlife lovers, wildlife professionals and neighborhoods learning to coexist with urban coyotes.

Pro Photo Supply and Shiels Obletz Johnsen present the series, with additional support from Portland General Electric. Lectures are 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.

December 30, 2009
A TRUNKFUL OF MEMORIES: ZOO CELEBRATES BIG YEAR FOR ELEPHANTS
Oregon Zoo's young Samudra energizes elephant herd, inspires public

Samudra, the 1-year-old Asian elephant, tucks into a special cake during his August birthday celebration at the Oregon Zoo. Photo by Brock Parker, © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. — It's been a big year for Oregon Zoo elephants — even the "little" ones. Samudra, the zoo's 1-year-old, 1,600-pound "baby," continued to grow and mature throughout 2009, inspiring both zoo visitors and the rest of the elephant herd, and making a weighty contribution toward the zoo's renowned Asian elephant program.

"Our elephant program has enjoyed remarkable success over the past year," said Bob Lee, senior elephant keeper at the zoo. "Sam continues to energize the herd with his lively and playful personality. It's exciting to watch."

The "little guy" has been growing, and now weighs more than 1,300 pounds over his birth weight. He enjoys playing in the yard and works well with keepers during his morning routine, during which he's given hay, bathed and brushed before walking around the exercise yard. He also receives weekly health checkups to ensure steady growth and wellness.

Along with Sam's development and training, zookeepers have continued the successful elephant exercise regimen that helps keep all the animals fit and healthy. Keepers say the program was especially important to Rose-Tu this past year, allowing her to stay physically fit in the year following her pregnancy. Prior to the successful birth of Samudra in 2008, brisk walks and daily workouts with her trainers helped prepare Rose-Tu for the difficulties of labor.

In August, hundreds of Samudra fans donned paper elephant ears and gathered in Elephant Plaza to celebrate Sam's first birthday. The playful 1-year-old received some snow to frolic in and enjoyed an elephant-sized cake (with one carrot for a candle) concocted by zoo executive chef Paul Warner. To watch a video of the event, visit www.oregonzoo.org/VideoArchive/SamudrasFirstBirthday.htm.

Throughout 2009, a team of University of Portland biologists tracked Samudra's behavior and interactions, compiling data to share with other zoos hoping to raise young elephants. Elephant births are relatively rare events, and these researchers' work should improve the chances of survival for this endangered species. For a look back at Samudra's first year, visit www.oregonzoo.org/VideoArchive/SamudrasFirstYear.htm.

Other 2009 highlights from the zoo's renowned elephant program included:

• Interim Zoo Director Mike Keele, who serves as the Asian elephant Species Survival Plan coordinator for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, spent a good part of 2009 on fact-finding missions: gathering ideas, researching best practices, drawing up "wish lists" and scouting potential locations for an off-site elephant preserve. In May, Keele visited the Pittsburgh Zoo's International Conservation Center, a new off-site facility focusing on African elephant breeding and management programs. He also toured the 300-acre site of The National Elephant Center in Okeechobee, Fla., set to open in 2010.
• Rama, the zoo's famous painting elephant, collaborated with keeper Jeb Barsh and artist Calley O'Neill on "Ambassador for the Endangered Ones," a project dedicated to the preservation of endangered species and their habitats (www.theramaexhibition.org). In addition, Rama's solo works proved more popular than ever. The zoo sold more than 130 of his paintings in 2009 for a total of around $15,000. Proceeds support zoo conservation efforts and animal enrichment activities. To learn more about Oregon's "biggest" artist, visit www.oregonzoo.org/Rama.
• In late spring, three robotics whiz kids from the Catlin Gabel School revived a six-year-old, out-of-service environmental enrichment device, which mentally engages the zoo's bull elephants while also encouraging them to exercise. The device, initially designed by Portland State University students, had fallen into disrepair, and zookeepers lacked the resources to upgrade it — until these tech-savvy teens stepped up to the challenge.
• In June, the zoo funded three separate elephant conservation projects through its innovative Future for Wildlife grant program. The grants support elephants and keepers working as conservation response units in Sumatra, as well as programs to save Asian elephants in Borneo and African elephants in Kenya's Samburu National Park.
• Recently, the zoo supported Portuguese biologists working on a method for identifying individual Borneo elephants through DNA. Field researchers collected blood samples from five elephants on preserves in Asia. Unfortunately, two of these samples were contaminated, a third was lost in shipping, and DNA from the remaining two was "pretty well degraded." Since the lab conducting genetic analysis for the project is located in Eugene, technicians called the Oregon Zoo for help and were pleasantly surprised to find it houses Chendra, the only Borneo elephant in the United States. The lab's director of research drove up from Eugene and watched as zoo elephant keepers drew two vials of blood from Chendra. The lab will be doing genetic sequencing on her DNA in a week or two and should get some results soon thereafter.
• On Dec. 11, "A Survey of Elephant Husbandry and Foot Health in North American Zoos," was published in Zoo Biology. This landmark paper is based on a survey of 78 elephant-holding institutions conducted for AZA by Oregon Zoo Conservation Research Associate Karen Lewis. The study includes strong evidence supporting the benefits of exercise programs for zoo elephants and the efficacy of AZA standards for elephant management and care.

The Oregon Zoo is recognized worldwide for its successful breeding program for endangered Asian elephants, which has spanned nearly five decades. More than 25 elephants have been born at the zoo, beginning with Packy in 1962.

To learn more about the zoo's elephant program and watch video of Samudra and the rest of the herd, visit www.oregonzoo.org/VideoArchive/Elephants.htm.

December 30, 2009
OREGON ZOO ANNOUNCES GREEN RESOLUTIONS FOR 2010
Zoo pledges to consume less and reuse more to conserve natural resources

The Oregon Zoo's penguins will soon have a more environmentally friendly home. The zoo has announced its "green resolutions" for 2010 &mdash among them, installing a new aquatic life-support system in the Penguinarium that will save millions of gallons of water a year. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. — Every year, people make New Year's resolutions to go on diets. The Oregon Zoo will be following suit in 2010, but instead of cutting back on desserts, the eco-conscious organization will reduce its consumption of resources like water and energy as part of its annual New Year's "green resolutions."

"The conservation of natural resources and environmental sustainability are crucial to the zoo's goals of protecting wildlife and its habitats," said Mike Keele, interim zoo director. "It makes sense for the zoo to be a model of green operations in the community."

Each year, the Oregon Zoo's Green Team assembles new resolutions with suggestions from staff members. The Green Team is a committee comprised of employees and volunteers representing many of the zoo's departments with the goal of making the zoo an environmental ambassador.

"By publishing our resolutions, we make it possible for the public to hold us accountable and help us stay on track," Keele said. "But we also use this list to share ideas with other businesses and organizations."

The zoo's Green Team meets monthly to explore new ways of taking the zoo's green operations to a higher level and keeping the zoo on the cutting edge of green technologies.

Here are this year's resolutions:

2010 Oregon Zoo Green Resolutions

• Design our new veterinary hospital to obtain LEED silver certification.


• Take steps to maintain and improve the tree canopy of the zoo.


• Set up a program to remove invasive ivy from trees along the zoo train track.


• Put mugs in all the zoo's conference rooms and discontinue use of disposable cups.


• Include a sustainability requirement in bid-procurement specifications for all food products.


• Install a new aquatic life-support system in the Penguinarium that will save millions of gallons of water a year.


• Complete the zoo's stormwater master plan and continue implementation of systems that will return filtered, clean water to the watershed.


• Enhance our carpool-match program for volunteers and employees.


• Replace at least three of our fossil-fuel propelled vehicles with electric vehicles.


• Install waterless urinals in select locations.


• Replace paper-towel holders in some of our restrooms with new energy-efficient electric hand dryers.


• Develop a system for offsetting carbon for travel by staff, volunteers and visitors.

December 30, 2009
OREGON ZOO CARES FOR ANOTHER ORPHANED COUGAR CUB
Female cub is the third orphaned cougar brought to the zoo this year

PORTLAND, Ore. — Another orphaned cougar cub rescued by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is recuperating at the Oregon Zoo before being shipped to her new home at the Buttonwood Park Zoo. She is the sibling of a male cub brought to the zoo earlier this month.

At about 12 weeks old, this youngster wouldn't stand a chance alone in the wild. But thanks to an ongoing collaboration between the ODFW and the zoo, the baby has found shelter and a new home.

The cub, described by keepers as "feisty" and "not a fan of humans," was picked up before Christmas near Springfield, Ore. After finding the orphaned male cub earlier, ODFW had been on the lookout for possible litter-mates, and the agency once again contacted Oregon zookeeper and resident puma expert Michelle Schireman when a sibling was found.

"I'm usually the first person fish and wildlife departments call when orphaned cubs must be removed from the wild," Schireman said. "As the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' puma population manager, I can place these cougars in accredited zoos. Baby cougars can't live in the wild without their mothers, so zoos offer the orphans' only chance for survival."

Schireman never sees many of the cats she helps -- the range for cougars extends over nearly half the United States -- but when cubs are orphaned in Oregon, she has a more hands-on role in determining the young cougars' futures.

It usually takes her a few days to organize the babies' transfer to a permanent home, and ODFW does not have the capacity to temporarily house orphaned cubs -- but the Oregon Zoo sometimes has space in its animal quarantine facility to host the cubs on a short-term basis. While they stay at the zoo, the cubs receive expert care from Schireman and zoo veterinary staff.

The female cub currently residing at the zoo is the third this year that ODFW has turned over to Schireman; this month's two orphaned siblings were preceded in June by a 9-week-old female found near Klamath Falls, Ore. Now named Gillin, the cub is a beloved fixture at the Northeastern Wisconsin Zoo.

Within hours of the most recent cub's arrival, Schireman had found a zoo eager to adopt her. Located in New Bedford, Mass., the Buttonwood Park Zoo is "very excited to have the cub heading their way as soon as weather permits," Schireman said.

Cougars, also known as mountain lions, pumas and (in Florida) panthers, live mostly in the western United States and Canada. The mammals weigh from 75 to 130 pounds and have a carnivorous diet both in the wild and at the zoo. Females are either pregnant or raising cubs for the majority of their lives. After three months of gestation, two to three cubs are usually born in a litter and live with their mother for up to two years.

With the exception of the Florida panthers, cougars are not listed as endangered, but they do face many challenges in the United States. Human encroachment and habitat destruction are just some of the dangers cougars encounter.

December 29, 2009
OREGON ZOO CHEETAH DIES FOLLOWING EXAM
Necropsy reveals possible cancer

Scooter, a cheetah in the Oregon Zoo's Predators of the Serengeti exhibit, was popular with zoo visitors. Photo by Carli Davidson, © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. — Scooter, a 2-year-old cheetah at the Oregon Zoo, died late in the afternoon of Dec. 27. He had undergone an exam earlier in the day after having displayed lethargic behavior since Christmas. The zoo staff is deeply saddened by his untimely passing.

"It appeared his abdomen hurt and he didn't want to move much," said Lisa Harrenstien, zoo veterinarian. "During the exam, we became suspicious of pancreatic disease and had planned exploratory surgery if the extensive fluid therapy we prescribed wasn't successful."

Initial necropsy results reveal an enlarged, abnormal pancreas, which may indicate pancreatic cancer. However, his liver was also abnormal, suggesting veno-occlusive disease, which is common in cheetahs but very uncommon in other species. Pathology reports are pending.

A challenge for animal-care staff is that wild animals mask symptoms of illness in an attempt not to appear vulnerable. By the time symptoms are detected, it often is too late for staff to intervene.

"We're still in shock," said Chris Pfefferkorn, Oregon Zoo general curator. "Both Scooter and his brother, Suseli, have been popular with visitors since the opening of our new Predators of the Serengeti exhibit in September."

The two cheetahs acclimated well to their new home after arriving Aug. 20 from Wildlife Safari in Winston, Ore. Plans to bring in another cheetah have not been made.

Cheetahs are the world's fastest land animals, able to reach speeds of up to 75 mph. These stealthy predators, which are found in Africa, south of the Sahara, as well as Iran and adjacent areas of Pakistan and Turkmenistan, are endangered due to habitat loss, poaching and hunting by farmers concerned about their livestock. In zoos, cheetahs may live up to 17 years; in the wild, they may live 8 to 10 years.

December 28, 2009
METRO NAMES NEW ZOO DIRECTOR

Kimberly A. Smith was named the Oregon Zoo's new director. Smith has 25 years of comprehensive zoo experience, most recently serving as the vice president of animal care at the prestigious Brookfield Zoo in Chicago. She is a leader in the accredited-zoo community - both in animal welfare and conservation - and has a proven track record as a manager of complex capital projects. She will lead the zoo as it undertakes $125 million worth of bond-related improvements over the next 10 to 15 years. She begins her new position March 1. Photo by Jim Schulz, staff photographer, Chicago Zoological Society.

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Oregon Zoo’s governing agency, Metro, has announced that Kimberly A. Smith will serve as the zoo’s new director. She begins her duties on March 1. Smith has 25 years of comprehensive-zoo experience, most recently serving as the vice president of animal care at the prestigious Brookfield Zoo in Chicago. She will lead Oregon’s No. 1 paid tourist attraction as it undertakes $125 million worth of bond-related improvements over the next 10 to 15 years.

“As the oldest zoo west of the Mississippi, the Oregon Zoo is truly the crown jewel of our community,” said Michael Jordan, Metro’s chief operating officer. “We are very pleased to have recruited such an outstanding zoo director. She is a proven community leader, manager, conservationist and educator — and is well positioned to lead us into a new era of excellence.”

Smith has a strong conservation ethic, believing that local wildlife conservation programs should come first, serving as a solid foundation before taking on international efforts.

“When involved in global preservation efforts, the first thing the local community leaders will ask is ‘What are you doing at home?’” Smith said. “If the answer is little or nothing, you lose all credibility — you have to walk your talk by taking care of endangered or threatened species in your own back yard.”

Smith has built her exceptional reputation in the zoo community because of her collaborative approach to conservation. Her highest profile efforts came when she was curator of birds at the Milwaukee Zoo. She worked closely with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, along with state and local wildlife officials, on several local conservation initiatives including: successfully releasing trumpeter swans to the wild, as well as participating in recovery efforts for piping plovers and whooping cranes.  

Smith has a solid track record in overseeing and implementing strategic and master plans. She is also adept at successfully completing large and complex capital construction projects, including the design and construction of the $27 million Great Bear Wilderness and a $4 million dolphinarium renovation at Brookfield. She also designed and managed the $1.3 million expansion of Brookfield’s outdoor elephant habitat.

“Smith is absolutely a perfect fit,” Jordan said. “We’re thrilled that she will continue the important conservation work we’ve become known for, while overseeing capital construction projects that will make our great zoo even better.”

A proven leader within the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Smith has chaired and vice chaired many conservation-related committees. She currently serves on the prestigious Wildlife Conservation and Management Committee and the Ethics Board. Also noteworthy are her conservation partnerships with state and federal wildlife officials on numerous native-species recovery efforts.

Metro, the zoo and The Oregon Zoo Foundation began the national search for a zoo director in July and were pleased with the many strong candidates.

“All of our candidates were highly qualified and each of them brought different strengths to the position,” said Jordan.

Smith rose to the top of the list for many reasons, including:

• She is a strong advocate for conservation.
• She has demonstrated tireless dedication to improving and enhancing animal welfare in accredited zoos.
• She played a leadership role in creating Brookfield’s comprehensive strategic plan and implementing the master plan.
• She is adept at managing complex capital construction projects, completing them on time and on budget.
• She has a proven track record working with community leaders, partners and donors.

Smith stated that she is “excited to be part of a zoo that is so clearly supported by its community.” 

“This is my dream job,” Smith said. “The Oregon Zoo is renowned for its recovery and reintroduction efforts with California condors and many Northwest species. I look forward to working with the zoo’s dedicated team of professionals — a team that is committed to conservation and environmental stewardship.”

Smith began her career at the Phoenix Zoo and has worked at several accredited museums and zoos, including the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, the Dallas Zoo and the Milwaukee County Zoo. She holds a master’s degree in science from Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee and a bachelor’s of science in zoology from Arizona State University.

December 24, 2009
POPULAR LIGHT DISPLAY PUTS ZOO CLOSE TO NEW ATTENDANCE RECORD
ZooLights on track for best year ever; zoo close to fourth consecutive record year

Zoogoers can see the animals come alive in lights during the 22nd annual ZooLights festival, which runs through Jan. 3. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. -- With ZooLights drawing around 45,000 visitors over the past week, Oregon Zoo officials say this year's light display looks to be its most successful ever and is pushing the zoo close to a fourth consecutive annual attendance record.

"ZooLights just seems to get bigger and better every year," said Mike Keele, interim zoo director. "If it continues to be this popular, the zoo will break its yearly attendance record --again."

The zoo has set attendance records in each of the past three years, with an all-time high 1,593,907 visitors coming through the gates in calendar-year 2008. Even if the year ended today, 2009 would easily rank as the second-highest attendance year in zoo history, with around 1.58 million visitors.

The most successful ZooLights to date came in 2006, when 130,603 visitors flocked to the winter light display. This year's ZooLights has already drawn more than 110,000 visitors -- an average of more than 4,000 a day -- with more than a week still to go following two nights off on Dec. 24-25.

ZooLights, which runs through Jan. 3, features nearly 1.25 million bright bulbs, with life-size animal silhouettes and moving light sculptures on display throughout the zoo.

At ZooLights, guests can expect to see their old favorites as well as some new surprises -- a backyard scene near the zoo's train station, some interactive farm animals and an animated, roaring lion in honor of the zoo's new Predators of the Serengeti exhibit, which opened in September.

Other new displays include a lighthouse and a totem pole, along with 3-D seahorses, sharks and a crab. These are only a few of the new ZooLights features this year. Over half of this year's lights are made of LEDs, which use about one-tenth the power of normal incandescent bulbs.

The zoo entry plaza transports guests to Bremen, Germany, with a glowing replica of that city's statue depicting 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, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the good and wicked witches from the Land of Oz.

Life-size, three-dimensional beasts linger on the zoo's concert lawn, which has become 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 Chinese dragon.

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 and Orville Orangutan on drums. 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, Nate the Eagle, 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 will be open during ZooLights with its regular menu items and specials. AfriCafe and food carts throughout the zoo will also 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 through Jan. 3, and is presented by The Boeing Company with additional support from Fox 12, PDX TV, KINK.fm + 101.9, and New Country 98.7 KUPL. Hours are 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 5 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. ZooLights is closed Dec. 24-25.

ZooLights package tickets, which include admission and a train ride, are $10.75 for adults (12-64), $9.25 for seniors (65 and older), $7.75 for children (3-11), and free for children 2 and under. For additional information, visit www.oregonzoo.org.

December 23, 2009
OREGON ZOO EXPERT STUDIES MYSTERIES OF REINDEER FLIGHT
Zoo curator asks children around the world to e-mail their flying-reindeer sightings

Oregon Zoo condor curator Shawn St. Michael holds a 1-month-old California condor chick during its first veterinary exam. St. Michael has spent much of the past decade studying condors, some of the largest flying animals in the world, and believes their ability to stay aloft may provide clues for scientists seeking a better understanding of reindeer flight. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Secrets of the elusive flying reindeer will be revealed when Oregon Zoo condor curator (and flying-reindeer expert) Shawn St. Michael shares his reindeer theories with children at the zoo's Elk Meadow, Thursday, Dec. 24, from 10:30 to 11 a.m. The flying reindeer discussion is free with zoo admission.

"Flying reindeer live in the far northern latitudes, in quite an extreme habitat, where they must forage widely in search of food," St. Michael noted. "So from an evolutionary standpoint, flight makes sense for these guys."

The only question, he says, is how: "We know, from the sparse eyewitness accounts, that these animals appear, in all morphological respects, to be normal reindeer. How then do they fly if they don't have wings? Clearly, this is a very unusual species with a number of special adaptations that set it apart from other mammals."

St. Michael became interested in reindeer flight after talking with the zoo's former director, Tony Vecchio, one of several respected scientists, zoologists and Arctic explorers who consulted on the 1996 book "Flight of the Reindeer." But while he sees merit in Vecchio's theory that reindeer "flight" is actually a series of extended leaps, he also believes there may be more to the phenomenon.

St. Michael has spent much of the past decade studying some of the largest flying animals in the world, California condors, and thinks their ability to stay aloft may provide clues for scientists seeking a better understanding of reindeer flight.

"Condors are big birds -- they can weigh close to 30 pounds -- so naturally I thought about them when I began investigating flying reindeer," St. Michael said. "If my theories are correct, flying reindeer show remarkable convergent evolution with birds in numerous ways -- chief among these specializations might be hollow bones, which would make them remarkably light for their size."

An artist's rendering depicts a special adaptation that could help explain reindeer flight: a thin membrane that stretches from foreleg to hind leg, thereby increasing glide time. Oregon Zoo condor curator (and flying-reindeer expert) Shawn St. Michael is asking children around the world to report their flying-reindeer sightings by visiting the zoo's Flying Reindeer Report Center at www.oregonzoo.org/flyingreindeer. Photo illustration by Alicia Plate, © Oregon Zoo.

St. Michael further hypothesizes that flying reindeer have developed "very loose belly skin, which -- as in other 'flying' mammals, such as the flying squirrel -- may be stretched between the fore and rear legs during flight to increase surface area and thereby increase glide time."

One thing that puzzled St. Michael initially was the fact that reindeer, by all accounts, do most of their flying at night, which is something California condors -- even with their hollow bones and enormous wingspans -- can't do. To remain airborne, he explained, condors rely on thermals -- rising columns of air created when the sun warms the earth's surface, which in turn warms the atmosphere directly above it.

"Ordinarily, of course, there are no thermals at night," St. Michael said. "But all the reports I've studied indicate some similar flight-friendly conditions could be in play."

The condor expert points to one of the earliest and most famous flying reindeer sightings, recorded in Clement C. Moore's 19th-century eyewitness account, "A Visit From St. Nicholas."

"It's fascinating reportage," St. Michael notes. "Moore's first instinct when he sees the reindeer gliding through that snowy, moonlit night is to compare them with eagles -- raptors that, much like California condors, have specially adapted wings for riding thermals."

Even more telling, St. Michael says, is the subsequent description of the deer ascending to the roof: "As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, / When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky; / So up to the house-top the coursers they flew."

"The syntax is a little wonky," St. Michael admitted, "and I'm a scientist, not a literary scholar. But if I understand these lines correctly, the reindeer that Moore saw seemed to be carried upward on a current of air. It's the same thing at the end of his account, when the deer all fly away 'like the down of a thistle.' "

St. Michael hopes to gather new data this month during the elusive creatures' annual journey and is asking children around the world to record flying reindeer sightings via the zoo's online Flying Reindeer Report Center (www.oregonzoo.org/flyingreindeer).

"Our understanding of reindeer flight continues to evolve as new data pours in each year during their annual Dec. 24 migration," St. Michael said. "So I'm asking anyone who sees flying reindeer this year to share the details with us -- where they were located, what time of day it was, how high the animals were in the sky, etc."

To see a video of St. Michael discussing his theories alongside the reindeer's close cousin, the Roosevelt elk, visit www.oregonzoo.org/VideoArchive/FlyingReindeer.htm.

Throughout December, the zoo hosts a variety of holiday-themed activities, including ZooLights (through Jan. 3), Presents for Primates (Dec. 17), winter break ZooVenture day camps for kids 4 years of age through fourth grade (Dec. 21-23 and 28-30), and a New Year's Eve sleepover for kids ages 6 through 13 with an adult (Dec. 31).

December 22, 2009
SWEET OFFER FOR ZOO VISITORS: TRADE YOUR OLD LIGHTS FOR FUDGE
Zoo extends holiday light drive; visitors may recycle old lights during entire run of ZooLights

Oregon Zoo visitors can enjoy the holiday season during the zoo's 22nd annual ZooLights through Jan. 3. ZooLights is a family tradition featuring life-size animal silhouettes, trees, buildings, walkways and the zoo train - decorated with nearly 1.25 million holiday lights. This year, ZooLights is greener than ever as the zoo unveils nearly 800,000 low-energy LEDs. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. -- If you've been thinking of switching out your old holiday lights for some energy-saving LEDs, the Oregon Zoo has a sweet offer for you: free fudge.

Throughout the run of its winter ZooLights festival, the zoo will be collecting old holiday light strings for recycling. Visitors who drop off their lights at the zoo by Sunday, Jan. 3, will receive a coupon for a free piece of fudge courtesy of the Zoo Store.

"The response to our recycling effort has been terrific so far," said Michael Weatherman, Oregon Zoo custodial supervisor and chair of the zoo's Green Team. "We've already collected several big containers full of old, worn-out energy-suckers. And you've got to admit, free fudge makes a nice addition to an already amazing ZooLights experience."

ZooLights, a local holiday tradition, is both brighter and greener this year. The winter festival now features nearly 1.25 million lights, including more than 770,000. The zoo has been using LEDs for its ZooLights displays since 2000, and continues to add more each year, replacing its conventional bulbs. This year, zoo officials figured they would encourage the public to make the switch as well.

"Our original plan was to collect people's old light strings only through the end of the year," Weatherman said. "But several visitors who were interested in switching to LEDs told us they'd already put their holiday lights up before learning about our recycling effort. We figured if we extended the offer through the entire run of ZooLights, folks could take their old lights down after New Year's, bring them to the zoo for recycling, and then make the switch to LEDs next year."

But procrastinators take note: There is only a short time left to be dazzled by ZooLights this season. The family tradition, presented by The Boeing Company, runs through Sunday, Jan. 3, illuminating life-size animal silhouettes, trees, walkways and the ever-popular zoo train.

At ZooLights, guests can expect to see their old favorites as well as some new surprises -- a backyard scene near the zoo's train station, some interactive farm animals and an animated, roaring lion in honor of the zoo's new Predators of the Serengeti exhibit, which opened in September.

Other new displays include a lighthouse and a totem pole, along with 3-D seahorses, sharks and a crab. These are only a few of the new ZooLights features this year. Over half of this year's lights are made of LEDs, which use about one-tenth the power of normal incandescent bulbs.

One of the Portland area's favorite holiday attractions is even greener this year. The Oregon Zoo's winter ZooLights festival features nearly 1.25 million lights. Nearly 800,000 are now LEDs, or light-emitting diodes, which use only a fraction of the energy of conventional bulbs. The zoo would like to see the public follow its example, and make the switch to LEDs. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo.

The zoo entry plaza transports guests to Bremen, Germany, with a glowing replica of that city's statue depicting 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, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the good and wicked witches from the Land of Oz.

Life-size, three-dimensional beasts linger on the zoo's concert lawn, which has become 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 Chinese dragon.

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 and Orville Orangutan on drums. 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, Nate the Eagle, 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 will be open during ZooLights with its regular menu items and specials. AfriCafe and food carts throughout the zoo will also 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 through Jan. 3, and is presented by The Boeing Company with additional support from Fox 12, PDX TV, KINK.fm + 101.9, and New Country 98.7 KUPL. Hours are 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 5 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. ZooLights is closed Dec. 24-25.

ZooLights package tickets, which include admission and a train ride, are $10.75 for adults (12-64), $9.25 for seniors (65 and older), $7.75 for children (3-11), and free for children 2 and under. For additional information, visit www.oregonzoo.org.

December 18, 2009
OREGON ZOO ANNOUNCES GREEN RESOLUTIONS FOR 2010
Zoo pledges to consume less and reuse more to conserve natural resources

The Oregon Zoo's penguins will soon have a more environmentally friendly home. The zoo has announced its "green resolutions" for 2010 -- among them, installing a new aquatic life-support system in the Penguinarium that will save millions of gallons of water a year. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Every year, people make New Year's resolutions to go on diets. The Oregon Zoo will be following suit in 2010, but instead of cutting back on desserts, the eco-conscious organization will reduce its consumption of resources like water and energy as part of its annual New Year's "green resolutions."

"The conservation of natural resources and environmental sustainability are crucial to the zoo's goals of protecting wildlife and its habitats," said Mike Keele, interim zoo director. "It makes sense for the zoo to be a model of green operations in the community."

Each year, the Oregon Zoo's Green Team assembles new resolutions with suggestions from staff members. The Green Team is a committee comprised of employees and volunteers representing many of the zoo's departments with the goal of making the zoo an environmental ambassador.

"By publishing our resolutions, we make it possible for the public to hold us accountable and help us stay on track," Keele said. "But we also use this list to share ideas with other businesses and organizations."

The zoo's Green Team meets monthly to explore new ways of taking the zoo's green operations to a higher level and keeping the zoo on the cutting edge of green technologies.

Here are this year's resolutions:

2010 Oregon Zoo Green Resolutions

- Design our new veterinary hospital to obtain LEED silver certification.

- Take steps to maintain and improve the tree canopy of the zoo.

- Set up a program to remove invasive ivy from trees along the zoo train track.

- Put mugs in all the zoo's conference rooms and discontinue use of disposable cups.

- Include a sustainability requirement in bid-procurement specifications for all food products.

- Install a new aquatic life-support system in the Penguinarium that will save millions of gallons of water a year.

- Complete the zoo's stormwater master plan and continue implementation of systems that will return filtered, clean water to the watershed.

- Enhance our carpool-match program for volunteers and employees.

- Replace at least three of our fossil-fuel propelled vehicles with electric vehicles.

- Install waterless urinals in select locations.

- Replace paper-towel holders in some of our restrooms with new energy-efficient electric hand dryers.

- Develop a system for offsetting carbon for travel by staff, volunteers and visitors.

December 17, 2009
OREGON ZOO CARES FOR ORPHANED COUGAR CUB
Ten-week-old male cub is the second orphaned cougar brought to the zoo this year

A 10-week-old cougar cub found orphaned near Springfield, Ore., has temporarily been taken in by the Oregon Zoo. The baby will soon move to the Caldwell Zoo in Tyler, Texas, his new adoptive home. Photo by Julie Cudahy, © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. — At 10 weeks old and barely 13 pounds, this blue-eyed cougar cub wouldn't stand a chance alone in the wild. But thanks to an ongoing collaboration between the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Oregon Zoo, the baby has found shelter and a new home.

The male cub, who Oregon zookeepers describe as "very handsome and feisty," was found last week near Springfield, Ore. When ODFW established that he was an orphan, they contacted Oregon zookeeper and resident puma expert Michelle Schireman.

"I'm usually the first person fish and wildlife departments call when orphaned cubs must be removed from the wild," Schireman said. "As the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' puma population manager, I can place these cougars in accredited zoos. Baby cougars can't live in the wild without their mothers, so zoos offer the orphans' only chance for survival."

Schireman never sees many of the cats she helps — the range for cougars extends over nearly half the United States — but when cubs are orphaned in Oregon, she has a more hands-on role in determining the young cougars' futures.

It usually takes her a few days to organize the babies' transfer to a permanent home, and ODFW does not have the capacity to temporarily house orphaned cubs — but the Oregon Zoo sometimes has space in its animal quarantine facility to host the cubs on a short-term basis. While they stay at the zoo, the cubs receive expert care from Schireman and zoo veterinary staff.

At 10 weeks old and barely 13 pounds, this blue-eyed cougar cub wouldn't stand a chance alone in the wild. But thanks to an ongoing collaboration between the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Oregon Zoo, the baby has found shelter and a new home. The baby will soon move to the Caldwell Zoo in Tyler, Texas. Photo by Julie Cudahy, © Oregon Zoo.

The male cub currently residing at the zoo is the second this year that ODFW has turned over to Schireman; he was preceded in June by a 9-week-old female found near Klamath Falls, Ore. Now named Gillin, the cub is a beloved fixture at the Northeastern Wisconsin Zoo.

Within hours of the male cub's arrival, Schireman had found a zoo eager to adopt the baby. Located in Tyler, Texas, the Caldwell Zoo is "very excited to have the cub heading their way for the holidays," Schireman said.

To see a video of Schireman introducing the rescued cub, visit www.oregonzoo.org/VideoArchive/CougarCub.htm.

Cougars, also known as mountain lions, pumas and (in Florida) panthers, live mostly in the western United States and Canada. The mammals weigh from 75 to 130 pounds and have a carnivorous diet both in the wild and at the zoo. Females are either pregnant or raising cubs for the majority of their lives. After three months of gestation, two to three cubs are usually born in a litter and live with their mother for up to two years.

With the exception of the Florida panthers, cougars are not listed as endangered, but they do face many challenges in the United States. Human encroachment, habitat destruction and hunting are just some of the dangers cougars encounter.

December 16, 2009
ZOO TO RING IN HOLIDAYS WITH 'PRESENTS FOR PRIMATES'
Chimps, orangutans and mandrills enjoy holiday-themed enrichment at the Oregon Zoo

The orangutans enjoys their wrapped treats during Presents for Primates at the Oregon Zoo. Presents for Primates is part of the zoo's internationally renowned enrichment program, designed to encourage behaviors such as hunting and foraging. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Oregon Zoo primates will celebrate the holidays a little early this year. The zoo's annual Presents for Primates enrichment event -- in which Santa's helpers (i.e., zoo primate keepers) present food-filled gift boxes to chimpanzees, orangutans and mandrills -- takes place Thursday, Dec. 17, at 10:30 a.m.

Presents for Primates continues the following two weekends, with mandrills and chimps getting further enrichment items Dec. 19 and 26, at 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. respectively, and orangutans receiving more gifts Dec. 20 and 27 at 1:30 p.m.

Members of the zoo's Volunteer Enrichment Team create the festive gift boxes for the occasion, while keepers and zoo veterinarians plan the contents. Primate treats include dry cereal, nuts, raisins and other dried fruit. Gift boxes are wrapped with paper made of nontoxic materials, and nonadhesive tape is used.

In addition to presents, the primates will receive cardboard "gingerbread" houses. Holes for windows and doors are cut into the houses, allowing keepers to hide treats inside them and encourage foraging behaviors. The cardboard houses also provide the animals with opportunities to control something in their environment -- even if they simply opt to "deconstruct" them.

Chloe the chimpanzee enjoys some treats during Presents for Primates at the Oregon Zoo. Presents for Primates is part of the zoo's internationally renowned enrichment program, designed to encourage behaviors such as hunting and foraging. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo.

Enrichment items such as these gift boxes and gingerbread houses are used to encourage foraging behaviors. This is the eighth 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.

To see video of a previous year's Presents for Primates activities, visit www.oregonzoo.org/VideoArchive/Primates.htm.

Other primates (i.e., zoo visitors) can enjoy the holiday season during the zoo's 22nd annual ZooLights, which runs through Jan. 3. 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, KINK.fm + 101.9, and New Country 98.7 KUPL. Hours are 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 5 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. ZooLights is closed Dec. 24-25.

ZooLights package tickets, which include admission and a train ride, are $10.75 for adults (12-64), $9.25 for seniors (65 and older), $7.75 for children (3-11), and free for children 2 and under. For additional information, visit http://www.oregonzoo.org/Events/ZooLights/index.htm.

December 15, 2009
OREGON ZOO 'ZOOLIGHTS' FESTIVAL ALMOST OVER
Procrastinators take note: Just a few chances left to be dazzled by the lights!

Visitors have just a couple weeks left to take a ride on the Oregon Zoo's light-bedecked steamer train during the 22nd annual ZooLights festival, which runs through Jan. 3. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Visitors who've procrastinated still have a few more evenings to take in the beauty of the Oregon Zoo's winter festival, ZooLights, which runs through Sunday, Jan. 3. This family tradition, presented by The Boeing Company, features nearly 1.25 million lights illuminating life-size animal silhouettes, trees, walkways and the ever-popular zoo train.

"ZooLights has become such a fantastic tradition in our community," said Mike Keele, acting zoo director. "Each year, this dazzling display of light and color gets bigger and better. As visitors take in the lights, sip their hot chocolate and ride the historic steam engine, they are creating cherished memories for years to come."

At ZooLights, guests can expect to see their old favorites as well as some new surprises -- a backyard scene near the zoo's train station, some interactive farm animals and an animated, roaring lion in honor of the zoo's new Predators of the Serengeti exhibit, which opened in September.

Other new displays include a lighthouse and a totem pole, along with 3-D seahorses, sharks and a crab. These are only a few of the new ZooLights features this year. Over half of this year's lights are made of LEDs, which use about one-tenth the power of normal incandescent bulbs.

The zoo entry plaza transports guests to Bremen, Germany, with a glowing replica of that city's statue depicting 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 who've procrastinated still have a few more evenings to take in the beauty of the Oregon Zoo's winter festival, ZooLights, which runs through Sunday, Jan. 3. This family tradition, presented by The Boeing Company, features nearly 1.25 million lights illuminating life-size animal silhouettes, trees, walkways and the ever-popular zoo train. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo.

Visitors can continue on through Tiger Plaza to meet up with Dorothy, Toto, the Cowardly Lion, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the good and wicked witches from the Land of Oz.

Life-size, three-dimensional beasts linger on the zoo's concert lawn, which has become 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 Chinese dragon.

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 and Orville Orangutan on drums. 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, Nate the Eagle, 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 will be open during ZooLights with its regular menu items and specials. AfriCafe and food carts throughout the zoo will also 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 through Jan. 3, and is presented by The Boeing Company with additional support from Fox 12, PDX TV, KINK.fm + 101.9, and New Country 98.7 KUPL. Hours are 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 5 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. ZooLights is closed Dec. 24-25.

ZooLights package tickets, which include admission and a train ride, are $10.75 for adults (12-64), $9.25 for seniors (65 and older), $7.75 for children (3-11), and free for children 2 and under. For additional information, visit http://www.oregonzoo.org/Events/ZooLights/index.htm.

December 14, 2009
ZOO OFFERS SOME WILD GIFT IDEAS FOR HOLIDAY SHOPPERS
Oregon Zoo has unique gifts for everyone on your list

The Oregon Zoo offers many green holiday gift items, including Ellie Pooh Paper. Yes, it is really made from elephant dung, but don't turn up your trunk at these handcrafted paper products - they're really quite beautiful. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. — If you're hoping to track down some truly wild and inspiring holiday gifts, look no further than the Oregon Zoo. The zoo offers many unique and eco-friendly gifts, and each purchase helps raise funds for its conservation programs and environmental education efforts.

Got some hard-to-shop-for people on your list? Make your shopping easy this year by sponsoring an African lion or cheetah for them. For a $75 sponsorship, the sponsoring parent receives a lion or cheetah plush toy; a personalized ZooParent certificate; a one-year subscription to the zoo's member magazine, ZooTracks; a color photo of the animal; and two passes to Zoofari, an evening featuring behind-the-scenes group tours led by Oregon zookeepers.

ZooParent packages begin at $25. Sponsorships are tax deductible and benefit the zoo's Future for Wildlife program, which helps fund conservation programs for endangered and threatened species, including California condors, western pond turtles, Washington pygmy rabbits and Oregon silverspot butterflies. Sponsorships may be purchased online at www.oregonzoo.org/ZooParents or by calling 503-220-2493.

Zoo memberships are always an appreciated gift. Memberships include unlimited zoo admission for a full year; admission benefits at more than 100 zoos nationwide; invitations to members-only events; a quarterly magazine; plus discounts on zoo train rides, educational camps and classes, and at the Zoo Store. Memberships begin at $44. For more information, visit www.oregonzoo.org/join or call 503-220-2493.

Zoo gift certificates, which can be used toward admission, for food and retail purchases, or for camps and classes, are available at the zoo's reception office in $5 increments up to $100. Regular admission tickets are valid for one year from date of purchase and make great stocking stuffers.

The Oregon Zoo has many green gift items perfect for the holidays. Gift memberships and other green-gift items help support the zoo's programs and animals, including little Samudra. Photo by Brock Parker, © Oregon Zoo.

And, of course, the Zoo Store is bursting with unique animal-themed gifts, from intricate handmade ornaments to cuddly plush toys. Check out the wide variety of stuffed animals to hug, puzzles to solve, books to read and collectible gifts, including the following staff picks:

• Soy polar bear plushes: Who knew soy could be so cuddly and cute? The exterior of these little guys is 100 percent soy fiber, while the stuffing is 100 percent kapok (a sustainable rain-forest crop).
• Ellie Pooh Paper: Yes, it is really made from elephant dung, but don't turn up your trunk at these handcrafted paper products — they're really quite beautiful!
• Save the Orangutan Soap (S.O.S.): It's palm-oil free, and the company donates at least 40 percent of its profits to groups working to protect and conserve orangs and their habitat.
• Chandler Farm's "Great Ape Collection": luxurious bath and body products with no palm oil. A portion of profits go to The Phelps Great Ape Foundation.
• Festive and colorful Acholi beads, handmade from recycled paper by women of the Acholi tribe in war-torn Uganda. Sales help these women earn a professional wage and prepare for a brighter future.
• Colorful knit alpaca hats and gloves for kids, handcrafted in South America's central highlands.
• Beaded and embroidered ornaments and coin purses, handmade by artisans at a fair-trade organization striving to reduce poverty and child labor in India. (Staff say the peacock pattern is a popular favorite.)
• Soft plush tapestry throws with animal scenes, made from 100 percent recycled fibers.
• Beautiful animal figurines, hand-carved in Ecuador using the tagua nut, a palm seed whose hard white insides resemble ivory.
• Rain-forest seed earrings, handmade in Costa Rica. Seeds are sustainably collected from the surrounding forest.

Shoppers can visit the store without paying zoo admission. You can also shop online at www.oregonzooshop.com.

December 11, 2009
OREGON ZOO EXPERT STUDIES MYSTERIES OF REINDEER FLIGHT
Zoo curator asks children around the world to e-mail their flying-reindeer sightings

Oregon Zoo condor curator Shawn St. Michael holds a 1-month-old California condor chick during its first veterinary exam. St. Michael has spent much of the past decade studying condors, some of the largest flying animals in the world, and believes their ability to stay aloft may provide clues for scientists seeking a better understanding of reindeer flight. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. — Secrets of the elusive flying reindeer will be revealed when Oregon Zoo condor curator (and flying-reindeer expert) Shawn St. Michael shares his reindeer theories with children at the zoo's Elk Meadow, Thursday, Dec. 24, from 10:30 to 11 a.m. The flying reindeer discussion is free with zoo admission.

"Flying reindeer live in the far northern latitudes, in quite an extreme habitat, where they must forage widely in search of food," St. Michael noted. "So from an evolutionary standpoint, flight makes sense for these guys."

The only question, he says, is how: "We know, from the sparse eyewitness accounts, that these animals appear, in all morphological respects, to be normal reindeer. How then do they fly if they don't have wings? Clearly, this is a very unusual species with a number of special adaptations that set it apart from other mammals."

St. Michael became interested in reindeer flight after talking with the zoo's former director, Tony Vecchio, one of several respected scientists, zoologists and Arctic explorers who consulted on the 1996 book "Flight of the Reindeer." But while he sees merit in Vecchio's theory that reindeer "flight" is actually a series of extended leaps, he also believes there may be more to the phenomenon.

St. Michael has spent much of the past decade studying some of the largest flying animals in the world, California condors, and thinks their ability to stay aloft may provide clues for scientists seeking a better understanding of reindeer flight.

"Condors are big birds — they can weigh close to 30 pounds — so naturally I thought about them when I began investigating flying reindeer," St. Michael said. "If my theories are correct, flying reindeer show remarkable convergent evolution with birds in numerous ways -- chief among these specializations might be hollow bones, which would make them remarkably light for their size."

St. Michael further hypothesizes that flying reindeer have developed "very loose belly skin, which — as in other 'flying' mammals, such as the flying squirrel — may be stretched between the fore and rear legs during flight to increase surface area and thereby increase glide time."

One thing that puzzled St. Michael initially was the fact that reindeer, by all accounts, do most of their flying at night, which is something California condors — even with their hollow bones and enormous wingspans — can't do. To remain airborne, he explained, condors rely on thermals — rising columns of air created when the sun warms the earth's surface, which in turn warms the atmosphere directly above it.

"Ordinarily, of course, there are no thermals at night," St. Michael said. "But all the reports I've studied indicate some similar flight-friendly conditions could be in play."

The condor expert points to one of the earliest and most famous flying reindeer sightings, recorded in Clement C. Moore's 19th-century eyewitness account, "A Visit From St. Nicholas."

"It's fascinating reportage," St. Michael notes. "Moore's first instinct when he sees the reindeer gliding through that snowy, moonlit night is to compare them with eagles — raptors that, much like California condors, have specially adapted wings for riding thermals."

Even more telling, St. Michael says, is the subsequent description of the deer ascending to the roof: "As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, / When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky; / So up to the house-top the coursers they flew."

"The syntax is a little wonky," St. Michael admitted, "and I'm a scientist, not a literary scholar. But if I understand these lines correctly, the reindeer that Moore saw seemed to be carried upward on a current of air. It's the same thing at the end of his account, when the deer all fly away 'like the down of a thistle.' "

St. Michael hopes to gather new data this month during the elusive creatures' annual journey and is asking children around the world to record flying reindeer sightings via the zoo's online Flying Reindeer Report Center (www.oregonzoo.org/flyingreindeer).

"Our understanding of reindeer flight continues to evolve as new data pours in each year during their annual Dec. 24 migration," St. Michael said. "So I'm asking anyone who sees flying reindeer this year to share the details with us — where they were located, what time of day it was, how high the animals were in the sky, etc."

To see a video of St. Michael discussing his theories alongside the reindeer's close cousin, the Roosevelt elk, visit www.oregonzoo.org/VideoArchive/FlyingReindeer.htm.

Throughout December, the zoo hosts a variety of holiday-themed activities, including ZooLights (through Jan. 3), Presents for Primates (Dec. 17), winter break ZooVenture day camps for kids 4 years of age through fourth grade (Dec. 21-23 and 28-30), and a New Year's Eve sleepover for kids ages 6 through 13 with an adult (Dec. 31).

December 10, 2009
ZOO ATTENDANCE TOPS 1.5 MILLION FOR THIRD CONSECUTIVE YEAR
With popular ZooLights festival in full swing, Oregon Zoo contemplates another record

Take a ride on the Oregon Zoo's light-bedecked steamer train during the 22nd annual ZooLights festival, which runs through Jan. 3. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. — With more than 10,000 visitors braving the cold to see ZooLights over the past weekend, the Oregon Zoo's annual attendance shot past the 1.5 million mark for the third consecutive year. Zoo officials say the popular holiday light display is pushing the zoo close to another yearly attendance record.

"The response this year has been amazing," said Mike Keele, interim zoo director. "If ZooLights continues to be this popular, we'll definitely have another record by New Year's Eve. Even if we stopped counting visitors today, 2009 would already rank as the second-highest attendance year in zoo history."

The zoo has set attendance records in each of the past three years, with an all-time high 1,593,907 visitors coming through the gates in calendar-year 2008.

ZooLights, which runs through Jan. 3, features nearly 1.25 million bright bulbs, with life-size animal silhouettes and moving light sculptures on display throughout the zoo.

At ZooLights, guests can expect to see their old favorites as well as some new surprises — a backyard scene near the zoo's train station, some interactive farm animals and an animated, roaring lion in honor of the zoo's new Predators of the Serengeti exhibit, which opened in September.

Other new displays include a lighthouse and a totem pole, along with 3-D seahorses, sharks and a crab. These are only a few of the new ZooLights features this year. Over half of this year's lights are made of LEDs, which use about one-tenth the power of normal incandescent bulbs.

The zoo entry plaza transports guests to Bremen, Germany, with a glowing replica of that city's statue depicting 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, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the good and wicked witches from the Land of Oz.

Life-size, three-dimensional beasts linger on the zoo's concert lawn, which has become 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 Chinese dragon.

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 and Orville Orangutan on drums. 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, Nate the Eagle, 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 will be open during ZooLights with its regular menu items and specials. AfriCafe and food carts throughout the zoo will also 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 through Jan. 3, and is presented by The Boeing Company with additional support from Fox 12, PDX TV, KINK.fm + 101.9, and New Country 98.7 KUPL. Hours are 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 5 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. ZooLights is closed Dec. 24-25.

ZooLights package tickets, which include admission and a train ride, are $10.75 for adults (12-64), $9.25 for seniors (65 and older), $7.75 for children (3-11), and free for children 2 and under. For additional information, visit www.oregonzoo.org.

December 8, 2009
ZOO'S NEWEST RESIDENT IS STANDING TALL
Bakari, a 2-year-old reticulated giraffe, to join Oregon Zoo's Africa exhibit

The Oregon Zoo's newest resident is turning heads — upward. Bakari, a 2-year-old male reticulated giraffe has arrived at the zoo and will soon join Akeem, the zoo's other male giraffe, in the Africa Savannah exhibit. Bakari already tips the scale at around 800 pounds and stands 12 feet tall. Keepers report he has a calm demeanor and is eating well, particularly enjoying rye crisps and browse. Photo by Julie Cudahy, © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Oregon Zoo's newest resident is turning heads — upward. Bakari, a 2-year-old male reticulated giraffe has arrived at the zoo and will soon join Akeem, the zoo's other male giraffe, in the Africa Savannah exhibit.

Born at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs, Colo., Bakari already tips the scale at around 800 pounds and stands 12 feet tall. Keepers report he has a calm demeanor and is eating well, particularly enjoying rye crisps and browse.

Bakari is acclimating quickly to his new environment and is expected to be on exhibit once introductions to Akeem have successfully been completed.

Reticulated giraffes, also known as Somali giraffes, are native only to Africa and can be found in the southern and eastern regions of the continent. Once found throughout Africa, these gentle giants are rapidly decreasing in numbers due to habitat loss and hunting.

Poaching has decimated giraffe populations. The animals' hair is popular for making bracelets and thread, while their skin is used for shield covers and their sinew for bowstrings. The growth of settlements and human populations has also created a loss of habitat, forcing giraffes out of the savannah. While not currently endangered, reticulated giraffes represent an at-risk species that is quickly losing its wild habitat.

December 4, 2009
ZOO'S POLAR BEARS CELEBRATE BIRTHDAY WITH ICE CAKES, TOYS
Party for Conrad and Tasul to highlight the plight of polar bears in the wild

Conrad and Tasul, the zoo's twin polar bears, will receive ice cakes and toys to celebrate their 25th birthday Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 19-20, at 10:30 a.m. The party promises to be fun for both the bears and zoo guests, who get to watch the twins enjoy their special treats. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Oregon Zoo is treating its twin polar bears to twin birthday parties, Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 19-20, at 10:30 a.m. The events also promise to be a treat for zoo guests, who will have the opportunity to watch Conrad and Tasul enjoy special food and toys.

"Our birthday bears will get to play with ice cakes, tubes, giant Legos and a few other surprises," said keeper Julie Christie. "It should be a lot of fun to see them investigate, eat, stomp on, dismantle and generally roll around in these enrichment items."

Conrad and Tasul were born Dec. 1, 1984, at the Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia, S.C. The healthy brother-and-sister team arrived in Portland on Jan. 31, 1986.

"We hope events like this birthday party help our guests develop an emotional connection with the bears," said Mike Keele, acting zoo director. "Conrad and Tasul help tell the story of what's happening to their relatives in the wild."

Should current climate warming trends be left unchecked, scientists predict the death of up to two-thirds of all wild polar bears by 2050. Global warming is melting the Arctic sea ice polar bears call home, and with it, access to the food and shelter necessary for the species' survival.

Last year, the polar bear was designated as threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, and the World Conservation Union's Species Survival Commission has reclassified the polar bear as a vulnerable species and placed it on its Red List. The Red List identifies species facing a high risk of global extinction.

December 4, 2009
ZOO'S 'LIGHT-BULB MOMENT': GO GREEN WITH HOLIDAY LIGHT DISPLAYS
ZooLights to feature nearly 800,000 LEDs; visitors encouraged to drop old lights at zoo

One of the Portland area's favorite holiday attractions is even greener this year. The Oregon Zoo's winter ZooLights festival features nearly 1.25 million lights. Nearly 800,000 are now LEDs, or light-emitting diodes, which use only a fraction of the energy of conventional bulbs. The zoo would like to see the public follow its example, and make the switch to LEDs. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. -- One of the Portland area's favorite holiday attractions is even greener this year. The Oregon Zoo's winter ZooLights festival features nearly 1.25 million lights. More than 770,000 are now LEDs, or light-emitting diodes, which use only a fraction of the energy of conventional bulbs. The zoo would like to see the public follow its example, and make the switch to LEDs.

During a portion of ZooLights, Dec. 5-31, the zoo will be collecting visitors' old holiday light strings at the Zoo Store, with plans to recycle them after the holidays. Visitors who drop off their old holiday lights at the zoo will receive a coupon for a free piece of fudge in the Zoo Store.

"LEDs are a great way to enjoy the beauty of the holiday without wasting so much energy," said Russell Guinn, the zoo's event technical coordinator. "At one time, LEDs were difficult to purchase locally, but now you can easily find them in any home improvement store."

The zoo has been using LEDs for its ZooLights displays since 2000, 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. More than 100,000 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."

According to Guinn, few visitors notice the difference -- LEDs give off a slightly different glow than standard holiday lights, but are just as beautiful. Additionally, 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.

These eco-friendly displays 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.

Oregon Zoo visitors can enjoy the holiday season during the zoo's 22nd annual ZooLights through Jan. 3. ZooLights is a family tradition featuring life-size animal silhouettes, trees, buildings, walkways and the zoo train - decorated with nearly 1.25 million holiday lights. This year, ZooLights is greener than ever as the zoo unveils nearly 800,000 low-energy LEDs. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo.

"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 22nd annual ZooLights through Jan. 3. ZooLights is a family tradition featuring life-size animal silhouettes, trees, buildings, walkways and the zoo train - decorated with nearly 1.25 million holiday lights.

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

ZooLights runs through Jan. 3, and is presented by The Boeing Company with additional support from Fox 12, PDX TV, KINK.fm + 101.9, and New Country 98.7 KUPL. Hours are 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 5 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. ZooLights is closed Dec. 24-25.

ZooLights package tickets, which include admission and a train ride, are $10.75 for adults (12-64), $9.25 for seniors (65 and older), $7.75 for children (3-11), and free for children 2 and under. For additional information, visit www.oregonzoo.org/zoolights.

December 2, 2009
OREGON ZOO HOLDS ZOOLIGHTS PET FOOD DRIVE DEC. 17
Donations benefit Banfield, The Pet Hospital's 'Season of Suppers' campaign

The Oregon Zoo has held several food drives, most recently over Thanksgiving weekend, to combat the real problem of hunger. However, hunger is also a growing issue for pets. In response, the zoo will set up bins to accept pet food donations during ZooLights on Thursday, Dec. 17. Donations will benefit Banfield, The Pet Hospital's Season of Suppers campaign. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Oregon Zoo has held several food drives, most recently over Thanksgiving weekend, to combat the real problem of hunger. However, hunger is also a growing issue for pets. In response, the zoo will set up bins to accept pet food donations during ZooLights on Thursday, Dec. 17. Donations will benefit Banfield, The Pet Hospital's Season of Suppers campaign.

"We're hoping a lot of our guests will want to help the four-legged members of our community," said Mike Keele, the zoo's interim director. As an incentive, the zoo is offering free holographic ZooLights glasses from the zoo's gift shop to the first 100 people who bring pet food donations.

The Season of Suppers campaign was developed by the Banfield Charitable Trust (BCT), the charitable arm of Banfield, The Pet Hospital, which teamed up with Banfield and Meals on Wheels Association of America (MOWAA) to ensure pets — and the people who love them — both get fed this holiday season. Through Dec. 31, Banfield is collecting pet food and monetary donations to help homebound seniors in need feed their companion pets. One hundred percent of the food and money collected will help feed hungry pets or start pet feeding programs.

"The Oregon Zoo has a great partnership with Banfield, The Pet Hospital, and they have provided valuable medical equipment as well as donations that have helped our zoo animals," Keele said. "We're excited about being able to help them feed hungry pets in our community."

The Oregon Zoo will set up bins to accept pet food donations during ZooLights on Thursday, Dec. 17. Donations will benefit Banfield, The Pet Hospital's Season of Suppers campaign. ZooLights has become a beloved holiday tradition with more than 1.2 million sparkling lights and 250 animated displays. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo.

ZooLights runs through Jan. 3, and is presented by The Boeing Company with additional support from Fox 12, PDX TV, KINK.fm + 101.9, and New Country 98.7 KUPL. Hours are 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 5 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. ZooLights is closed Dec. 24-25.

ZooLights package tickets, which include admission and a train ride, are $10.75 for adults (12-64), $9.25 for seniors (65 and older), $7.75 for children (3-11), and free for children 2 and under. For additional information, visit www.oregonzoo.org.

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

December 1, 2009
PUBLIC CAN VISIT ZOO'S ENDANGERED WASHINGTON TURTLE HATCHLINGS
Turtles will be released into the Columbia River Gorge when they are bigger

Oregon Zoo visitors can now view western pond turtle hatchlings at the zoo's conservation station, located in the Cascade Stream and Pond Building. When the turtles are bigger, the zoo will release them in the Columbia River Gorge to help bolster wild populations of this endangered species. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo.

PORTLAND, Ore. — For almost a decade, the Oregon Zoo has been working to save endangered western pond turtles, rearing them in a protected environment until they are big enough to be released into the wild. Visitors can now view recent hatchlings — each a bit larger than a quarter — at the zoo's conservation station, located in the Cascade Stream and Pond Building.

Over the next nine months, zoo staff members will monitor and weigh the rare turtles as they grow. Once they reach a suitable size of about 70 grams, the turtles will be returned to the wild and monitored for safety.

"When we release the turtles, they're big enough that predators like non-native bullfrogs are no longer a threat," said David Shepherdson, the zoo's conservation program scientist. "The months the turtles spend at the zoo give them a real edge — scientists estimate that 95 percent of the turtles we've released into the Columbia River Gorge have survived."

Just a decade ago, western pond turtles had nearly disappeared from Washington, their native habitat, with only 150 turtles left in the wild. Today, researchers estimate there are about 1,400.

Habitat degradation and disease continue to endanger the species, but the biggest threat to fragile baby turtles is the bullfrog. Native to areas east of the Rockies, this nonindigenous frog has thrived throughout the West, driving pond turtles and a host of other small, vulnerable aquatic species to the brink of extinction.

A decade ago, Washington's rare western pond turtle was facing an uncertain future, teetering on the brink of extinction. Through the conservation efforts of the Woodland Park Zoo Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Oregon Zoo, the species is now recovering. Zoo-reared turtles are fed and kept warm throughout the cold winter months, so that by their summer release, the 10-month-old turtles are the size of 3-year-old turtles raised in the wild. Photo by Brock Parker, © Oregon Zoo.

The Western Pond Turtle Recovery Project, a collaborative effort of the Oregon Zoo, Woodland Park Zoo, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, was created to help restore the species in the wild.

Every summer, wildlife recovery workers monitor female turtles in the field to determine where they will dig their nests. Once the turtles have laid their eggs, workers cover the nests with wire "exclosure" cages that help prevent predators from eating the eggs. The eggs are then allowed to incubate naturally, and hatchlings are collected in the fall.

The hatchlings are barely the size of a quarter when they are taken to the Oregon Zoo and the Woodland Park Zoo. Unlike wild turtles, the zoo turtles are fed and kept warm throughout the winter, so by their summer release, the 10-month-olds are as big as wild 3-year-old turtles.

"We make sure our turtles can hold their own before releasing them into the wild," Shepherdson said.