September 25, 2009
OREGON 'ZOOTEEN' TO ATTEND POLAR BEAR SCIENCE CAMP
Future 'Ambassador of the Arctic' Patricia Billette heads to Churchill, Canada, Sept. 27

ZooTeen Patricia Billette makes a stop at the Oregon Zoo's polar bear exhibit before heading to Churchill, Canada, this weekend on a 10-day trip to learn more about how climate change is affecting polar bears in the wild. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo

PORTLAND, Ore. — Things are looking up for Oregon ZooTeen Patricia Billette — up north, that is. Billette, a resident of Beaverton, is one of about 15 students from around the world heading to Churchill, Canada, this weekend to learn more about how climate change is affecting polar bears. Billette is studying to become an "Ambassador of the Arctic" during the annual Polar Bear Science Camp, organized by Polar Bears International.

"This represents a real highlight in the programs we've developed to support our mission of conservation through education," said Robert Buchanan, president of PBI. "Students from around the globe work directly with scientists in the field, overcoming unique challenges and reporting back to their schools through Web communication and online journals."

Billette is no stranger to challenges. The camp application process is notoriously intense, weeding out all but the most serious students. Billette wrote an essay about an issue she felt needed to be addressed in her community, and gave a five-minute presentation in front of panelists about what makes an exceptional Ambassador of the Arctic.

"Although I was nervous, I was extremely focused on making a good impression," Billette said. "I've wanted to be involved with PBI since I started working at the zoo, so I spent a lot of time preparing my application."

Amanda Greenvoss, youth volunteer coordinator at the zoo, believes the teen will have an influential voice when she returns, addressing the Arctic's changes and its harmful effects on polar bears.

"This will be a life-changing experience for Patricia," Greenvoss said. "Working with renowned scientists and studying polar bears in the wild is something few teens get the chance to do."

This is PBI's fifth annual science camp and marks the fourth year volunteer organizations at the zoo have sponsored the selected ZooTeen's flight to Canada. The 10-day camp allows students to interact with classmates at home and keep an online journal throughout the trip to share their experiences with others. After the camp, each participant creates a plan for raising school and community awareness about issues in the Arctic Tundra, global warming and other problems polar bears encounter.

Besides participating in ZooTeens, Billette is a member of Southridge High School's French club and varsity racquetball team. A junior at the school, she also enjoys volunteering, tutoring foreign exchange students and playing soccer.

"I hope to obtain lots of information, as well as presentation skills, so when I come back I can effectively teach others what I learned," said Billette. "It would be great to have an impact on the way people around me behave, or to help people understand the importance of sustainability and conservation."

PBI will sponsor the teen while in Canada; the Oregon ZooGuides, a dedicated team of adult volunteers, sponsored the cost of Billette's plane ticket to Winnipeg. Columbia Sportswear also adorned Billette with outerwear for her wintry journey.

Polar Bears International is a nonprofit organization founded in 1992 by Dan Guravich, a wildlife photographer internationally known for his work with polar bears. The organization works to conserve the world's polar bears through research and education.

September 23, 2009
OREGON ZOO SET TO CELEBRATE WORLD'S CULTURES, ANIMALS
World Animal Festival features music, crafts, activities with international flair

A young Oregon Zoo visitor plays the "Predator Pounce" game during World Animal Festival. The festival, a celebration of how animals have influenced humans throughout history, takes place Sept. 26 through Oct. 4, and is free with zoo admission. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo

PORTLAND, Ore. — Globetrotters on a budget can travel the world without leaving Portland during the Oregon Zoo's 11th annual World Animal Festival, Sept. 26 through Oct. 4. The festival, free with zoo admission, celebrates the many ways animals influence cultures, beliefs and customs around the globe. Festival hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

"Animals have influenced humans for thousands of years, inspiring them to create music, stories, dances and art," said Krista Swan, Oregon Zoo events coordinator. "World Animal Festival will highlight amazing music and dance from nearly every continent, and professional storytellers will weave animal tales, representing the world's animals in legends and myths."

The multicultural celebration provides a chance to discover more about wildlife and the unique places around the world where animals live. Visitors can learn about the threats animals face in the wild and watch zoo animals interact with culturally inspired enrichment items.

At various times throughout the festival, guests will be treated to live Zimbabwean marimba music, Polynesian hula dancing, Native American storytelling, Chinese lion dancing and traditional English garland dancing.

Visitors can also take part in games, educational activities and traditional crafts such as Japanese origami, Ukrainian egg decorating, Slovakian wheat weaving and Polish paper cutting.

For a complete schedule of activities, visit www.oregonzoo.org/Events/WAF.

September 18, 2009
Memorial to Honor Charlie, Prince of the Zoo
Zoo to celebrate life of beloved chimp with traditional African drumming, dance

Charlie, the proud, dominant member of the Oregon Zoo's chimpanzee troop, had become gray with age. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo

PORTLAND, Ore. — A memorial honoring the life of Charlie, proud patriarch of the Oregon Zoo's chimpanzees, has been set for Tuesday, Sept. 22, beginning at 11 a.m. at the zoo near the concert lawn.

Charlie, who passed away unexpectedly yesterday afternoon, was one of the most esteemed animals in the zoo's history, beloved by staff, volunteers and visitors alike. The charismatic 39-year-old chimp was known as the "Prince of the Zoo," a title bestowed on him by zoo veterinarian Mitch Finnegan.

Charlie, known as the Prince of the Oregon Zoo, often climbed on his "throne" at the center of the chimpanzee exhibit. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo

Dave Thomas, senior primate keeper at the zoo and one of Charlie's original caretakers, said the chimp's death marked the "end of an era."

Tuesday's memorial will include traditional West African drumming by Chata Addy -- a Ghana native and the nephew of local legend Obo Addy -- as well as dancers, and a "wishing well" into which visitors may drop donations to the Jane Goodall Institute in Charlie's memory. Asaba Mukobi, one of Charlie's keepers and a native of Uganda, suggested the well as a nod to the African tradition of tossing something of value into the grave of a loved one.

Profits from the zoo's Chimpanzee Challenge maze that day also will be donated to the Jane Goodall Institute. The chimp-themed seasonal attraction, open through Oct. 4, allows kids to swing from vines, soar through treetops and "live chimply" in a maze developed in collaboration with Dr. Goodall. A $1 fee is required in addition to regular zoo admission.

The zoo has also set up a Web page for visitors to share their personal thoughts and remembrances or leave messages for the zoo's keeper staff: www.oregonzoo.org/charlie.

September 17, 2009
CHARLIE, PRINCE OF THE ZOO, HAS UNEXPECTEDLY PASSED AWAY
Recent Oregonian article chronicled chimp's life from threatened orphan to prince of zoo

Charlie, the proud, dominant member of the Oregon Zoo's chimpanzee troop, had become gray with age. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo

PORTLAND, Ore. — Charlie, proud patriarch of the Oregon Zoo's chimpanzees, passed away unexpectedly on exhibit this afternoon. As an infant, Charlie was nearly killed as part of the bushmeat trade in Africa. He came to the United States as a pet and was given to the zoo in May of 1972.

Dave Thomas, senior primate keeper at the zoo and one of Charlie's original caretakers, described the charismatic 39-year-old, 160-pound chimp as the "Prince of the Zoo," a title bestowed on him by zoo veterinarian Mitch Finnegan.

"We thought we'd have another 20 years," Thomas said. "It's the end of an era, and the zoo will never be the same. We have to go on though -- to provide care and support for our remaining females: Delilah, Leah, Coco and Chloe."

"As we experience our own personal grief, we take solace in knowing our primate care staff provided the best care and maintained deep friendships with Charlie," said Mike Keele, the zoo's acting director. "He will be in our hearts forever."

A memorial event for Charlie is being planned, and details will be provided early next week. In addition, zoo visitors can offer condolences or share favorite memories of Charlie on the zoo's web site: www.oregonzoo.org/charlie.

Charlie had an eventful day, as a national zoo conference -- the annual meeting of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums -- brought people to the Oregon Zoo whom he had not seen since the 1970s and '80s.

"It was a beautiful day that ended abruptly just after 2 p.m.," Thomas said. "Charlie was having some wonderful experiences, seeing friends he had not seen in a very long time."

When Charlie went down, a volunteer was the first to see him in distress. Senior Keeper Dave Thomas was the first staff person on the scene and called the zoo's animal emergency code on the radio. Veterinarians and animal-care staff rushed to the scene, but the four females were surrounding Charlie, out of concern for him. It took several minutes to get the females away, so veterinary staff could offer aid. Tragically, when the veterinary staff got to him, he had already passed away.

The primate keeper staff has since placed the females back together. Leah and Delilah immediately went back to the spot where Charlie fell. Thomas believes they will continually look for him in the next few days and weeks, knowing something is terribly wrong. Primate keepers will not be taking time off to grieve and will do their best to keep to their regular routines in an effort to provide comfort to the females. Grief counselors will be available for zoo staff and volunteers.

Charlie, known as the Prince of the Oregon Zoo, often perched on his "throne" at the center of the chimpanzee exhibit. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo

"The girls need to know that we are still here for them," Thomas said.

Charlie was highly intelligent and was the undisputed leader of the zoo's troop. However, he was not born into this life of luxury. It was just by chance that he was saved from the perils of the bushmeat trade.

Charlie was born in the wild forests of Africa around 1970. At the time, Edward Miller, a mineral contractor, was working in mines on the border between Liberia and Sierra Leone. One day, Miller and his family saw some locals walking around town with an infant chimp, and he knew its mother must have been killed. Given the prevalent local bushmeat trade, Miller realized the orphaned baby chimp might well end up another casualty. He offered to purchase the chimp from the locals, no questions asked. Miller named him Charlie, after the code name for the mining site where he worked.

Charlie lived as part of Miller's family for about a year, playing and sleeping alongside his three young boys. Miller knew, however, that the chimp's needs would eventually exceed what his family could provide. Because Charlie could no longer survive on his own in the wild, Miller decided to bring him to the United States (which was legal in the 1970s). It was determined that Charlie would be taken care of at the Oregon Zoo, but only under certain conditions: Miller wanted to ensure that Charlie would get special treatment from his keepers, called "enrichment," since he was already so accustomed to living and interacting with humans.

The zoo made the Miller family and Charlie a promise, a promise that has been kept and extended to the other zoo residents. Starting with Charlie, zookeepers began to develop an enrichment program. During its initial phase, the enrichment program focused on human-animal interaction, including work on language acquisition. Charlie learned American Sign Language and was able to respond to and initiate basic commands of communication. The enrichment program also involved playing, training and physical contact with the animals.

After years of trying different enrichment strategies, the modern ideals of enrichment have shifted away from human interaction in order to preserve animals' wild nature and behavior. Now, enrichment encourages natural behaviors through training, exercise and toys. Enrichment gives choice, change and control to the animals -- engaging all their senses to make sure they receive mental and physical stimulation.

Although the focus of enrichment has evolved, it all began with Charlie here at the Oregon Zoo. Thomas noted that working with Charlie -- and, subsequently, with the other chimps at the zoo -- started the careers of many dedicated people who work in further developing the zoo's enrichment program.

While at the zoo, Charlie became a parent and even a grandparent. The chimp who so nearly became a tragic casualty of the bushmeat market changed many lives, both human and animal. A few years ago, Miller returned to the zoo to visit Charlie. It was difficult to say whether Charlie recognized his old friend -- but once Miller left, Charlie kept looking for him.

In May, The Oregonian published an in-depth feature on Charlie (www.oregonlive.com/O/index.ssf/2009/05/prince_of_the_zoo.html), highlighting the importance of the zoo's chimpanzee patriarch to the primate keepers, veterinary staff, volunteers and the entire zoo staff.

September 16, 2009
OREGON ZOO TO HOST BENEFIT FOR WILD CHEETAHS
Since 2000, zoo has helped Cheetah Conservation Fund raise more than $180,000

Two cheetahs explore their new home at the Oregon Zoo. The male cheetahs made their debut recently at the zoo's new Predators of the Serengeti exhibit. Photo by Carli Davidson, © Oregon Zoo

PORTLAND, Ore. — With only about 12,000 wild cheetahs left on earth, time may be running out for the world's fastest land animal. On Oct. 11, the Oregon Zoo will host the Cheetah Conservation Fund's seventh annual "Big Cat, Big Party," an event aimed at raising awareness for the plight of these critically endangered animals.

"Since 2000, the Oregon Zoo has helped us raise more than $180,000 to help save wild cheetahs," said Laurie Marker, founder and executive director of the Cheetah Conservation Fund. "Through the zoo's strong partnership, we've raised the conservation profile of this charismatic and critically endangered cat."

The "Big Cat, Big Party" brunch takes place from noon to 2 p.m. A feast created by the zoo's executive chef, Paul Warner, will complement a discussion led by Dr. Marker, a world-renowned cheetah expert and a recipient of Time magazine's "Hero for the Planet" award. Dr. Marker will be accompanied by her cheetah pal Taini. Tickets for this event are $45 before Sept. 25, or $55 after, and must be purchased by Oct. 7.

Before brunch, cheetah lovers may also spend a special hour with Dr. Marker and Taini at a patron reception from 11 a.m. to noon. Tickets for the reception and brunch together are $90 before Sept. 25 and $100 after.

Dr. Marker began her career in the 1970s at Wildlife Safari in Winston, Ore, and headed up the successful cheetah captive-breeding program there before founding the Cheetah Conservation Fund and moving to Namibia, Africa. Scooter and Suseli, the two cheetahs at the zoo's recently opened Predators of the Serengeti exhibit, are from Wildlife Safari's program.

"CCF and the Oregon Zoo are working together to save a species beloved by children around the world," said Teresa Delaney, CCF trustee. "Zoos and breeding facilities play an important role in helping to save this amazing animal for future generations."

A pair of his-and-hers Gary Fisher mountain bikes, donated by WildCat Haven and The Howard Hedinger Family Foundation, will be raffled off at the brunch. The bikes, customized with cheetah graphics by Autographs, are valued at $1,200. They will be available for pickup at the event or by appointment after Oct. 11. Raffle entrants need not be present to win.

For brunch and raffle tickets, visit www.cheetah.org/fallevents.

September 11, 2009
Oregon Zoo Elephant Study Aims to Promote Species Survival
Zoo and University of Portland team up to study "Baby" Samudra

Samudra, the Oregon Zoo's 1-year-old Asian elephant calf, frolics in the water with his "Auntie" Chendra. Zoo conservationists have teamed up with University of Portland researchers to study Sam as he grows. The researchers hope their work will improve the chances of survival for this endangered species. Photo by Carli Davidson, © Oregon Zoo

PORTLAND, Ore. — Elephant births are rare events, so Oregon Zoo conservation staff and University of Portland faculty and students have teamed up to study Samudra, the zoo's Asian elephant calf, as he develops.

Karen Lewis, a conservation researcher at the zoo, designed and initiated the study, inviting biology students to assist with data collection.

"Because births are infrequent, there is limited research available on elephant development," Lewis said. "We are doing our best to help expand the elephant population in zoos, but there currently aren't enough elephants to maintain the species under human care for more than a few generations -- making research crucial."

Kathleen Hunt, assistant professor of conservation biology at UP, recruited interested students to help collect and analyze data. Fall and spring term classes received credit for assisting with the study, and three additional students -- Katie Graham, Mary Dinsmore and Kehaunani Malama -- worked as summer research assistants, hoping to gain insight on healthy elephant calf development.

"I had no idea how much I would enjoy learning about these animals," Graham said. "Because elephant calves are so rare and fragile, any information that helps measure a young elephant's well-being increases its chances of survival, as well as the survival of future generations."

By tracking Samudra's behavior and interactions during his first year of growth, researchers hope to gather information they can share with other zoos hoping to raise young elephants. Compiling data from elephant calves in multiple zoos can provide animal-care staff with a sense of what to expect during normal calf development.

"There is a real possibility of Asian elephants going extinct in the future," Graham added. "The more information we can provide to those who work with elephants, the better they'll be able to care for these amazing animals."

Zoos help promote species survival by working to successfully breed and maintain captive populations. Researchers continuously study elephants in order to better understand their behavior and help preserve dwindling wild populations.

This study tracks Samudra's behavior during randomly selected one-hour intervals up to three times a day. Once each minute, the researchers observe and indicate whether a particular behavior occurs. If Samudra performs a behavior at some point during the minute interval, a box is marked, and if he doesn't perform the behavior the box remains empty. The observed behaviors include nursing, eating, drinking, "dusting" (throwing sand or dirt on himself) and interacting with other elephants.

"Although this study is ongoing and we have yet to formally analyze the data, we have definitely seen a progression in Sam's behavior over the course of the year," Lewis said. "It has been great to watch him develop into such a healthy and charismatic young elephant."

A second, smaller study that grew out of the initial research focuses on Sam's use of his trunk for exploring and picking up items. Samudra learns to control his trunk with more agility each day, scooping hay into his mouth with a single, smooth motion. He often uses his feet to hold down hay while grabbing large bites with his trunk.

"Sam's trunk plays a role in most of his actions throughout the day, and the main study on elephant development wasn't able to provide a detailed picture of that," Lewis noted. "The second study allows us to measure how his trunk use has changed and improved over the year."

"He becomes more comfortable with his trunk each day, using it to explore different aspects of his environment," Dinsmore added. "By watching and learning from the females in the herd, Sam now eats orchard grass, fruits and vegetables, and picks up hay, dirt and sawdust to throw on his head and back."

Lewis also noted that Sam has grown more independent over the course of the study. He spends less time very close to his mother, often choosing to wander off and explore on his own or to interact with other elephants in the herd.

"Studying Sam's relationship with the other elephants helps explain the progression of his relationship with his mother, Rose-Tu, compared to the other two females in the herd," Dinsmore said.

The team hopes to complete the study and compile a summary of Sam's first year by early fall.

To see a video chronicling Sam's first year, visit www.oregonzoo.org/VideoArchive/SamudrasFirstYear.htm.

September 11, 2009
Oregon Zoo to Host 85th Annual AZA Conference, Sept. 14-17
Conference will focus on major role of zoos, aquariums in wildlife conservation

The Oregon Zoo hosts the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' 85th annual conference next week at the Oregon Convention Center. The conference runs Sept. 14-17. The zoo will show off its latest exhibit, Predators of the Serengeti, to nearly 2,000 zoo and aquarium professionals from around the country. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Oregon Zoo kick off the 85th annual AZA Conference next week at the Oregon Convention Center. The conference runs Sept. 14-17.

"The Oregon Zoo is rolling out the red carpet for nearly 2,000 zoo and aquarium professionals from around the globe," said Jim Maddy, AZA president and CEO. "The leadership and staff of the Oregon Zoo not only run a first-class zoo but are truly leaders in conservation."

"We're grateful for the opportunity to host the annual AZA conference, which will give a great boost to the economy of Portland," added Mike Keele, the Oregon Zoo's acting director. "The opportunity to showcase our zoo -- including the new Predators of the Serengeti exhibit and our successful elephant conservation program -- to professional colleagues is a real honor for the zoo and its hardworking staff."

The conference's citywide economic impact is estimated at $2.35 million.

The keynote speaker for the conference will be Jane Goodall, founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and U.N. Messenger of Peace. Her message of hope for the future and inspiration to make a difference -- for people, animals and the environment -- will set the tone for the week's events, according to Maddy.

The conference will feature 67 program sessions on topics ranging from climate change and corals to nature education to polar bear sustainability. In addition, zoo and aquarium professionals will hold 70 committee and animal program meetings, sharing best practices and demonstrating close collaboration as accredited zoos and aquariums work to advance animal welfare and conserve imperiled species.

Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting an institution dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. With its more than 200 accredited members, the AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation, and your link to helping animals in their native habitats. For more information, please visit www.aza.org.

September 9, 2009
SELDOM-SEEN PREDATORS JOIN OREGON ZOO'S NEW EXHIBIT
Don't underestimate the Serengeti's lesser-known inhabitants

An African red-billed hornbill perches on a branch at the Oregon Zoo's Predators of the Serengeti exhibit. The zoo celebrates the grand opening of the state-of-the-art exhibit, Sept. 12-13. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo

PORTLAND, Ore. — From the mighty lion to the slithering rock python, the Oregon Zoo's new exhibit features African predators of all kinds. The 2.5-acre Predators of the Serengeti exhibit celebrates its grand opening Saturday, Sept. 12, and Sunday, Sept. 13.

"Although much excitement surrounds the lions, these other African predators are equally fascinating," said Mike Keele, interim zoo director.

The exhibit, which is home to some of Africa's largest carnivores — lions, cheetahs and African wild dogs — is also home to some of the planet's smallest predators. Red-billed hornbills, African bullfrogs, Mombassa golden starburst tarantulas and an emperor scorpion are among the pint-sized predators inhabiting the exhibit.

Bob, the zoo's 12-foot-long, 20-year-old African rock python, moved into his larger living space today. He has been a zoo resident since 1996, when he arrived from the Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek, Mich. The rock python is the largest snake species in Africa and can reach up to 30 feet in length.

Beyond Bob's dwelling is the home of the colorful red-billed hornbill, which may be seen foraging for food among the undergrowth. This unique bird has long eyelashes, stubby legs and a large, curved beak, used primarily for digging. Fun facts abound at the hornbill's exhibit, where visitors can read about the bird's bizarre nesting activities.

"Male hornbills use food, droppings and mud to seal the female inside a tree, providing her with meals through a tiny hole for eight weeks while she sits on the nest," noted Keele. "This unique ritual helps protect the chicks until they're old enough to fly and forage on their own."

Elsewhere in the exhibit are some fierce African invertebrates — spiders and scorpions — that would be as dangerous as lions, if it weren't for size.

Oregon Zoo educator Matt Crouse comes face to face with a female lion, at the Oregon Zoo's Predators of the Serengeti exhibit. The zoo celebrates the grand opening of this state-of-the-art exhibit, Sept. 12-13. Photo by Michael Durham, © Oregon Zoo

"As you look at these fascinating creatures, you realize that predators come in all sizes, from the mighty lion to the venomous tarantula," Keele said.

Predators of the Serengeti, designed and built by the zoo's in-house exhibits team, contains innovative constructs that keep both humans and animals mentally engaged. The exhibit brings visitors nose to nose with dozens of impressive predators through glass walls and mesh screens, providing wide-ranging views of the animals' spacious enclosures from a variety of observation points.

"We found a good balance between giving visitors up-close encounters with the predators — you can look at the lions from a foot away — and providing the animals with large, naturalistic living space," said Brent Shelby, the zoo's exhibit and interpretive design manager.

The Oregon Zoo Foundation raised $6.4 million for Predators of the Serengeti. Supporters who contributed $50,000 or more to Predators include: Banfield, The Pet Hospital; the estate of Marjorie H. Black; the Clark Family (Mike & Tracey Clark, Clark/Lewis Family Foundation, Brittney Clark & Christopher Brooks); The Collins Foundation; the estate of Melvin F. Dersham; Institute of Museum and Library Services; Metro Regional Center; Meyer Memorial Trust; M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust; The Oregon Zoo Foundation; Oregon Zoo Volunteers; Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation and Jordan Schnitzer Family Foundation; the Jay and Diane Zidell Charitable Foundation; Zoolala 2007; Zoolala 2008; Mary Clark; Clear Channel; Columbia Sportswear Co.; Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde through the Spirit Mountain Community Fund; Michele Mass and Jim Edwards; Don Frisbee; Elizabeth Lilley; Jim and Jennifer Mark; James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation; Portland General Electric; Spirit Mountain Casino; The Standard; Edson and Gayle Whitehurst; and three anonymous donors.

For more information about Predators of the Serengeti, visit www.oregonzoo.org/Exhibits/PredatorsOfSerengeti/index.htm.

September 4, 2009
NEW ZOO EXHIBIT GETS SOME BARK TO GO WITH ITS BITE
African wild dogs join lions, cheetahs in zoo's new Predators of the Serengeti exhibit

Three African wild dogs moved into a lush new Oregon Zoo enclosure that simulates their native habitat on the African plains. Wally, Widdle and Wooster will make their public debut during the Predators of the Serengeti grand opening celebration Sept. 12-13. Photo by Carli Davidson, © Oregon Zoo

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Oregon Zoo has welcomed several felines to its new Predators of the Serengeti exhibit already, but today some canines joined the pack.

Three African wild dogs -- Wally, Widdle and Wooster -- moved into a lush new enclosure that simulates the species' native African plains habitat. The dogs, all male, will make their debut during the exhibit's grand opening celebration Sept. 12-13.

African wild dogs, also known as painted dogs, have bodies similar to those of wolves, but with larger, batlike ears, white-tipped tails and distinctive patches of brown, black and beige on their coats. They are listed as endangered by the World Conservation Union and the U.S. Endangered Species Act.

"Unfortunately, these dogs are often defined by their more aggressive cousins - jackals and hyenas -- hence the 'wild' name," said Chris Pfefferkorn, the zoo's general curator. "These dogs, though, are actually fairly docile around humans and they're fascinating to watch."

The zoo's three new dogs were obtained from the Mountain View Conservation and Breeding Centre in Fort Langley, British Columbia.

Thanks to support from an anonymous benefactor, the zoo's African wild dog enclosure (located within the 2.5-acre Predators exhibit) should prove enriching both for its canine residents and for zoogoers.

The exhibit features indoor and outdoor viewing areas, where visitors can watch the dogs dashing across grasslands or drinking from a rippling stream. Heated dens encourage the animals to spend time just inches from the public, and visitors may hear the dogs communicating with each other in squeaky, high-pitched yips. The viewing areas were funded by generous contributions from Jim Edwards and Michele Mass, the Henrie & Ward Families, and in loving memory of Kathleen Christensen.

African wild dogs once spanned the entire African continent, but human encroachment and urbanization have drastically reduced their numbers. The dogs are widely regarded as pests and are poisoned, shot and trapped in many areas. They also face serious threats from the growing domestic dog population, which brings the wild dogs into contact with fatal canine diseases.

Several other African creatures will join the wild dogs in the Predators exhibit, most of which are currently living in behind-the-scenes holding spaces in preparation for the exhibit's grand opening. A celebration of predators large and small, the exhibit includes lions, cheetahs, African wild dogs, red-billed hornbills and an African rock python.

September 3, 2009
CHEETAHS ENJOYING NEW DIGS AS ZOO EXHIBIT NEARS COMPLETION
Two cheetahs join Oregon Zoo's Predators of the Serengeti exhibit, set to open Sept. 12

Two cheetahs explore their new home at the Oregon Zoo. The male cheetahs will soon make their debut in the highly anticipated Predators of the Serengeti exhibit, opening Sept. 12. Photo by Carli Davidson, © Oregon Zoo

PORTLAND, Ore. — Two cheetahs are acclimating well to their new home at the Oregon Zoo, after arriving Aug. 20 from Wildlife Safari in Winston, Ore. Scooter and Suseli, both male, will be joining other African predators in the zoo's new Predators of the Serengeti exhibit, which celebrates its grand opening Saturday, Sept. 12, and Sunday, Sept. 13.

"The two cats are already familiar with one another, and they're acclimating quickly to their new environment," said Chris Pfefferkorn, the zoo's general curator.

Thanks to support from the Clark Family — Mike and Tracey Clark, the Clark/Lewis Family Foundation, Brittney Clark and Christopher Brooks — the zoo's cheetah enclosure, located within the 2.5-acre Predators exhibit, should prove enriching both for its feline residents and for zoogoers.

Visitors may spot the cheetahs drinking from a waterfall-fed pool or sunbathing atop the hood of an authentic safari vehicle — which appears to have "crashed" into the enclosure, leaving the front half of the vehicle in the cheetahs' space. Visitors can climb into the vehicle and watch cheetahs lounge on its warm metal hood. This portion of the exhibit was made possible by a donation from longtime zoo supporters Jim and Jenny Mark.

The expansive main viewing area, which overlooks the entire exhibit, was sponsored by Edson and Gayle Whitehurst. A third viewing area, made possible by a contribution from Elizabeth Lilley, provides visitors with a nose-to-whisker look at the felines from inside a cavelike tunnel.

Cheetahs are the world's fastest land animals, able to reach speeds of up to 75 mph. These stealthy predators are endangered due to habitat loss, poaching and hunting by farmers concerned about their livestock.

Several other African creatures will soon join the cheetahs in the Predators exhibit - most are currently living in behind-the-scenes holding spaces in preparation for the exhibit's grand opening Sept. 12-13. A celebration of predators large and small, the exhibit includes lions, cheetahs, African wild dogs, red-billed hornbills and dwarf mongooses.

To see video of the cheetahs exploring their new home, visit www.oregonzoo.org/VideoArchive/PredatorsCheetahs.htm.

September 2, 2009
ZOO CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING OF PREDATORS EXHIBIT, SEPT. 12-13
After ten year's absence, African lions return to the Oregon Zoo

African lions Neka (left) and Zawadi Mungu (right) are two of several new animals in the Oregon Zoo's Predators of the Serengeti exhibit, which will celebrate its grand opening Sept. 12 and 13. Photo by Brock Parker © Oregon Zoo

PORTLAND, Ore. — After 10 years of fund raising and planning, the Oregon Zoo has brought lions back to Portland as part of the new Predators of the Serengeti exhibit. The 2.5-acre exhibit celebrates its grand opening Saturday, Sept. 12, and Sunday, Sept. 13.

A number of grand opening activities celebrating Serengeti animals and their native continent will take place during the opening weekend. These activities, which run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days, include the following:

• Music and dance on the zoo's concert lawn, with performances by Njuzu Mbira, Boka Marimba and Chata Addy.
• Storytelling in the exhibit's demonstration area.
• Costumed lion on hand for pictures.
• Free, full-face painting of African animals 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• "Discovery Zone" inside the exhibit staffed by the zoo's naturalists.
• Games, puzzles and other learning activities focusing on Africa's animals and geography.

In addition, Lions of Oregon will be collecting used eyeglasses and hearing aids in support of their Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation. A collection table will be located near the zoo entrance.

In a happy coincidence, TriMet's new MAX Green Line and the zoo's Predators of the Serengeti exhibit are opening on the same weekend. Southeast Portlanders and residents of Clackamas County — the areas served by this extension of the MAX — can take their inaugural trip on the Green Line to the Predators grand opening festivities.

Predators of the Serengeti provides complex, expansive environments for some of Africa's most endangered carnivores, including lions, cheetahs and African wild dogs. The exhibit is also home to red-billed hornbills, a caracal, dwarf mongooses and an African rock python.

The exhibit brings visitors nose to nose with these impressive predators through glass walls and mesh screens, and provides wide-ranging views of the animals' spacious enclosures from a variety of observation points.

The Oregon Zoo Foundation raised more than $6.2 million for Predators of the Serengeti. Supporters who contributed $50,000 or more to Predators include: Banfield, The Pet Hospital; the estate of Marjorie H. Black; the Clark Family (Mike & Tracey Clark, Clark/Lewis Family Foundation, Brittney Clark & Christopher Brooks); The Collins Foundation; the estate of Melvin F. Dersham; Institute of Museum and Library Services; Metro Regional Center; Meyer Memorial Trust; M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust; The Oregon Zoo Foundation; Oregon Zoo Volunteers; Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation and Jordan Schnitzer Family Foundation; the Jay and Diane Zidell Charitable Foundation; Zoolala 2007; Zoolala 2008; Mary Clark; Clear Channel; Columbia Sportswear Co.; Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde through the Spirit Mountain Community Fund; Michele Mass and Jim Edwards; Don Frisbee; Elizabeth Lilley; Jim and Jennifer Mark; James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation; Portland General Electric; Spirit Mountain Casino; The Standard; Edson and Gayle Whitehurst; and three anonymous donors.

For more information about Predators of the Serengeti, visit www.oregonzoo.org/Exhibits/PredatorsOfSerengeti/index.htm.

September 1, 2009
OREGON ZOO ACQUIRES THREE AFRICAN LIONS FOR NEW EXHIBIT
The lions are part of the zoo's Predators of the Serengeti exhibit, opening Sept. 12

Two female African lions named Kya (left) and Neka (right) explore their new home at the Oregon Zoo. They and Zawadi Mungu, a male lion, will be part of the zoo's Predators of the Serengeti exhibit, opening Sept. 12. Photo by Carli Davidson, © Oregon Zoo

PORTLAND, Ore. — Home, sweet home! The Oregon Zoo's three African lions have moved into their new enclosure at the highly anticipated Predators of the Serengeti exhibit, opening to the public on Sept. 12.

One of the most ambitious endeavors in the zoo's history, the nearly 2.5-acre exhibit provides expansive naturalistic environments for a variety of African predators, including cheetahs, African wild dogs and red-billed hornbills.

The exhibit also marks the return of lions to the Oregon Zoo.

In 1998, lions were phased out of the zoo to make room for a new exhibit, and visitors noticed. After countless requests, the zoo's "Bring Back the Roar" campaign has fulfilled visitors' wishes by returning the "king of beasts" to the zoo.

"Our three lions are adjusting well to their new home," said Mike Keele, acting zoo director. "The roar is officially back at the Oregon Zoo."

The male lion, Zawadi Mungu, came from the San Diego Wild Animal Park, and the female lions, Neka and Kya, came respectively from the Virginia Zoo and Wisconsin's Racine Zoo.

"The lions are all under 2 years of age, which makes it easier for them to bond and become a unified pride," said Chris Pfefferkorn, the zoo's general curator. "It's a bit more difficult to get older lions to form new relationships."

The new lion enclosure features open grassland, warm rocks, a heated den and a demonstration theater, where visitors can watch keepers interact with the lions through a protective mesh screen. The enclosure is surrounded by huge granite boulders modeled after African kopjes, natural rock formations commonly found on the Serengeti plains.

The Predators of the Serengeti exhibit not only provides top-notch habitats for its animals, but also addresses the pressing need to sustain healthy captive populations of endangered species like the African lion.

Zawadi Mungu, Neka and Kya will participate in the Oregon Zoo's new lion breeding program, a part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan for African lions.

The lion enclosure in the zoo's new Predators of the Serengeti exhibit features open grassland, warm rocks and a waterfall-fed pool. The zoo's male lion Zawadi Mungu just moved into this spacious, naturalistic home with female lions Neka and Kya. Photo by Carli Davidson, © Oregon Zoo

"Bringing lions to the zoo gives us the opportunity to help create a promising new chapter in the conservation story of a species that is sharply declining in the wild," Keele said.

The lion exhibit received generous support from many donors, including:

• The Harold and Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation and Jordan Schnitzer Family Foundation (funded the lion habitat)
• Columbia Sportswear Company (sponsored the exhibit's Mane Street)
• Mary Clark (funded the lion overlook viewing area)
• The Standard (sponsored a lion viewing area)
• An anonymous benefactor (funded the lions' demonstration theater)
• The Jay and Diane Zidell Charitable Foundation (funded the Roaring Canyon feature)
• Rocky and Julie Dixon (funded the lions' den viewing area)
• Banfield, The Pet Hospital (sponsored the lion sculptures)

For more information about African lions and the Predators of the Serengeti exhibit, visit www.oregonzoo.org/Exhibits/PredatorsOfSerengeti/index.htm.