2024 Spring WILD Magazine

April 7 – August 11, 2024

PUBLISHED FOR FRIENDS OF ROGER WILLIAMS PARK ZOO

Welcome!

By Stacey Johnson Executive Director, RWP Zoo and RI Zoological Society

What do Matschie’s tree kangaroos and Livingston’s turacos have in common?

Not a lot. Tree kangaroos are marsupials from Papua New Guinea and turacos are African birds. However, this spring they are working together to widen our horizons.

World Tree Kangaroo Day is May 21, and although we can’t expect a parade in Providence, you are invited to visit and learn about them at Roger Williams Park Zoo. We support a SAFE (Saving Animals From Extinction) program for the species, and, as in so many cases, we know that prioritizing protecting one species’ habitat improves the lives of the others that live there, ultimately including people. Protecting nature is not just good, it is good for you, too. When you visit our tree kangaroos, don’t forget to check out the Komodo dragon, wrinkled hornbills, and Bali mynahs – all endangered species from the Indo-Pacific region.

A Livingston’s turaco will also join the action all spring and summer—along with more than a dozen other bird species.

Interactive bird show

April 13 through Labor Day

Presented by

Take flight with the feathered wonders at the Zoo this year!

Witness a breathtaking daily spectacle where majestic birds like falcons, cranes, and owls soar gracefully through the air, showcasing their incredible natural behaviors and abilities.

Prepare to be amazed as these avian ambassadors not only fly with unmatched skill but also communicate through their unique calls, even mimicking the sounds of their expert interpreter. Be prepared for some unexpected surprises along the way, making this an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

It is no exaggeration to say that we are practically chirping with excitement to bring back the free-flight demonstration again! The team from Natural Encounters will join us in time for school vacation week in April and be with you through August.

Of course, it would not be April without mention of Earth Day. At the Zoo and in Roger Williams Park, there will be plenty of ways all month long to learn and enjoy being good stewards of the planet.

Taking us back to the question at the top of this message, you’re right if it seems forced to connect tree ‘roos and turacos into such a small space on a page. Still, I can tell you that one thing they do share is a fondness for soft, mushy fruit. If you happen to be the parent of a toddler – or have ever been a toddler’s parent – your family has something in common with both: smashed bananas. And that, by itself, makes it a great day to visit the Zoo. See you soon!

This interactive show brings you closer than ever to these magnificent creatures, offering a unique window into their fascinating world. Don’t miss your chance to be captivated by the power and beauty of flight! (weather dependent, free with Zoo admission)

Experience beautiful Roger Williams Park

Nestled in Providence, Rhode Island, Roger Williams Park offers an array of experiences beyond its renowned Zoo. Starting at the Roger Williams Park Gateway Visitors Center, guests embark on a journey of discovery, guided by friendly staff eager to share insights and information, especially about dragons.

Explore the park’s 435 acres of natural beauty, adorned with meandering pathways, picturesque ponds, and verdant gardens. Don’t miss the enchanting Dragon Dance and Dragon Scavenger Hunt events, adding a touch of magic to your visit.

Visit the Roger Williams Park Botanical Center, boasting one of New England’s largest indoor gardens. Discover themed gardens showcasing exotic plants and join in Fairy Garden Days for a whimsical experience, complete with Chinese Dragon Dancers, Providence Ballet, and dragon boats.

Delve into science and culture at the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium, where immersive exhibits and celestial wonders await. Special activities celebrating mythical creatures and dragons are available, along with Discovery Tykes Dazzling Dragons storytime.

Take to the park’s waterways for recreation, with paddleboat or kayak rentals and fishing opportunities. Families can enjoy the BearGround and Hasbro’s Boundless Playground for inclusive play experiences, with dragons hidden throughout.

Join a guided twilight tour to witness the park’s nocturnal beauty or find a quiet spot to admire the sunset. Before leaving, pay homage to iconic landmarks like the Temple to Music, Betsey Williams Cottage, and the historic Casino and Bandstand.

Reflecting on your day of exploration, you realize that Roger Williams Park offers a journey of discovery, inspiration, and connection with nature and culture. With something for everyone, including the enchantment of dragons, the park invites you to return and unlock its endless wonders.

April 7 – August 11, 2024

Step into a world where myths and legends collide

Dragons, mermaids, Loch Ness monster, griffins, and unicorns… were they real or imagined? Visit the Dragons & Mythical Creatures exhibit at the Roger Williams Park Zoo and decide for yourself.

From April 7th through August 11th, guests can embark on a mythical journey where folklore meets reality as they encounter 60 life-size dragons and other creatures that exist somewhere between science and imagination. They can immerse themselves in the excitement of witnessing these animatronic mythical creatures in action—watching as these beasts move, roar, and even breathe smoke.

Legends of dragons and other creatures are ubiquitous globally, spanning historical and contemporary periods. These mythical creatures serve as symbols, highlighting the shared elements and diverse and distinct expressions within global cultures.

From fire-breathing beasts of destruction in Western myths to the majestic symbols of fortune and harmony in Chinese legends, dragons offer a fascinating glimpse into the diversity of cultural interpretations. Tales of mermaids weaves through diverse cultures globally, ranging from coastal communities in Ireland to the Karoo desert in South Africa. Or take the Kraken, rooted in Scandinavian folklore and portrayed as a menacing cephalopod capable of destroying ships and dragging sailors to their doom—this is a prevalent theme in seafaring myths worldwide.

Dragons & Mythical Creatures is more than just an exhibit; it’s a passport to imagination. So, gather your courage, spark your curiosity, and prepare to be amazed; this exhibit will leave you feeling like a true adventurer. Visit the Roger Williams Park Zoo and step into a world where myths and legends collide.

Note: This is an add-on experience and non-members will also require a separate admission to the Zoo and can be purchased online.

Ever Wonder What Vets Do at the Zoo?

A Day in the Life of a Zoo Veterinarian

The next time you visit the Zoo, look beyond the playful otters and majestic giraffe. There’s a whole team working behind the scenes to keep all the animals healthy and happy, and that includes veterinarians with a special skillset!

Unlike veterinarians who see cats and dogs all day, zoo vets work with a fascinating variety of animals, from armadillos and macaws to sloths and elephants. Each species has its own unique needs and challenges. This means zoo vets need to be adaptable and have a broad knowledge of animal health.

Veterinary Student Externship: Learning by Doing

Our Zoo offers a unique externship program for fourthyear veterinary students who are curious about this exciting field. This program is a direct behind-the-scenes look at the animal hospital. Students get to learn from our experienced team of veterinarians and vet technicians and see how they handle everything from routine checkups to unexpected emergencies.

This externship isn’t your typical vet clinic experience. Here, students get a hands-on glimpse into the unique challenges and rewards of zoo veterinary medicine. They’ll learn how to apply their veterinary knowledge to a wide range of species, from tiny tortoises to towering elephants.

More Than Just Animal Care

Imagine assisting with an elephant’s checkup or participating in a cheetah blood draw! Externs learn how to apply their veterinary knowledge to every day hands-on experience in the daily world of zoo vets. Students delve into preventive care, learning how to create personalized health plans for each species, including vaccinations and proper nutrition. They even get to witness the fascinating world of animal necropsies (animal autopsies) and explore the importance of biosecurity in a zoo environment.

Here’s a sneak peek at what externs might do:

• Help with examinations and treatments for all sorts of animals.

• Learn how to safely restrain and anesthetize animals (because a snow leopard is a lot different than a housecat!).

• Become familiar with the process of formulating a preventative health program for zoo/exotic species, including pre-shipment testing, quarantine, vaccination, examination schedules, and nutritional management.

• Even participate in a necropsy (animal autopsy) if the opportunity arises.

• The program also teaches students the importance of keeping zoo staff and animals safe from disease. They’ll learn about quarantine procedures and become familiar with various zoonotic disease concerns in a zoological setting.

Success Stories: How Externships Make a Difference

The program isn’t just about cool animal encounters (although, let’s be honest, that’s a pretty cool perk!). It’s about helping students develop the skills and knowledge they need to become future zoo veterinarians.

Many past externs have gone on to become amazing zoo vets themselves! Lauren Waite, a former extern at the zoo, is now a veterinarian rocking it at the Riverbanks Zoo in South Carolina. She credits the externship with igniting her passion for zoo animal care and opening her eyes to the unique challenges

Waite says her experience

“profoundly changed the trajectory of her veterinary career and cultivated a curiosity in her that she had not experienced in any other veterinary specialty.”

and rewards of this field. Waite says her experience “profoundly changed the trajectory of her veterinary career and cultivated a curiosity in her that she had not experienced in any other veterinary specialty.”

The Zoo has proudly hosted nearly 80 externs over the years, and it’s always inspiring to see them grow and become advocates for wildlife health while making a real difference in animal conservation.

Curious About Zoo Careers? We Got You Covered!

Even if you’re still in high school and dreaming about a future working with animals, the Zoo offers programs like “Zoo Careers 101” every fall to introduce you to the various paths you can take. So, keep an eye out for upcoming programs!

Got a phone or old tablet collecting dust in a drawer? We want them!

Our handy collection box at the zoo’s main entrance is ready to receive your pre-loved electronics.

Here’s what e-Gadgets you can recycle:

• Cell phones

• ipads/Tablets

• smartwatches

• Handheld GPS

• ipods/MP3 players

• PDA’s

• Handheld gaming systems

• VR headsets

• Digital handheld scanners

So, what are you waiting for? Head to the zoo’s main entrance and look for the collection box. Together, we can make a difference, one recycled phone at a time!

Did you know your old phone

can be a superhero for gorillas?

It’s true! Here at Roger Williams Park Zoo, our e-waste recycling program isn’t just about keeping our planet clean, it’s about protecting some of our most fascinating friends: gorillas!

Recycling your phone is a double win.

First, it stops harmful materials and chemicals from ending up in landfills and leaking into the environment. Second, it reduces the need for new phone parts. Many of the rare minerals needed for phones are mined in areas where gorillas and other important wildlife live. This mining can destroy their homes and put them in danger.

Plus, all the funds raised from this recycling program go straight to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, an amazing organization that protects gorillas in the wild. So, you’re basically becoming a gorilla guardian with every recycled gadget!

The Green Team’s Big Quest

DID YOU KNOW?

There are now more cell phones than people on the planet.

Our employee Green Team is leading the charge in this phone-saving mission. They’ve partnered with ECO-CELL, a company dedicated to giving old phones a new purpose and protecting gorilla homes.

Thanks to YOUR SUPPORT, we ranked #15 in the TOP 20 ECO-CELL GADGET RECYCLERS in 2023! Here’s how much we’ve recycled:

• 2021: 142 devices

• 2022: 262 devices

• 2023: 425 devices

PRESENTED BY at

Dance to the music of Mystique

Saturday, June 29, 2024

at Roger Williams Park Zoo

Dine on dishes from over 35 restaurants SAVE

See animals up close and personal Encounter unexpected delights all night

Saturday, June 29, 2024

Questions?

Contact us at zoobilee@rwpzoo.org or call (401) 785-3510 x318 Learn

& Buy Tickets

Upcoming Events at the Zoo & Carousel

APRIL

• CAROUSEL HOURS: Weekdays 12 pm - 6 pm Weekends 11 am - 6 pm

• 6th Free Saturday

• 7th to 30th: Dragons and Mythical Creatures (Runs April 7- August 11

• 19th: Food Truck Friday Kick-off at Carousel Village

• 20th: Party for the Planet

• 13th: Bird Show opens

• 28th: Early Open Sensory-Friendly experience for Dragons and Mythical Creatures (8 - 9 am)

• 28th: Breakfast with the Elephants

MAY

• CAROUSEL HOURS: Weekdays 12 pm - 6 pm Weekends 11 am - 6 pm

• 1st to 31st: Dragons and Mythical Creatures on the Wetlands Trail

• 9th: Sip & Stroll: Battle of the Bands 90s Night

• May 11th: Travel with RWPZoo to the Bronx Zoo

• 16th: Whisky for Wildlife

• 19th: Early Open Sensory-Friendly experience for Dragons and Mythical Creatures (8 - 9 am)

• 18st: Breakfast with the Elephants

• Fridays: Weekly Food Truck Friday at Carousel Village

JUNE

• CAROUSEL HOURS: Weekdays 12 pm - 6 pm Weekends 11 am - 6 pm

• 1st to 30th: Dinosaurs on the Wetlands Trail

• 1st: Breakfast with the Elephants (Rain date June 11)

• 8th: Saturday Family Night Dragons and Mythical Creatures

• 16th: Early Open Sensory-Friendly experience for Dragons and Mythical Creatures (8 - 9 am)

• 23rd: Breakfast with the Elephants

• Fridays: Weekly Food Truck Friday at Carousel Village

• 29th: Zoobilee! Party with a Purpose

1

Kids’ Corner Kids’ Corner

What are female deer called?

1. Dee

2. Doe

3. Deer

4. Dow

Which of the following is the only bird that is able to fly backwards?

1. Hummingbird

2. Raven

3. Bald Eagle

4. Blue Jay

Earth Day Recycled Tin Can Planters

Steps:

Step 1: Before the soil and accessories can be added, you’ll need to add a few holes to the bottom of the tin can with a large nail and hammer. Depending on the child, you can either do this step beforehand or allow them to do it themselves!

Step 2: Use the strong punch to create two small arm holes a little less than halfway down on both sides. Insert a pipe cleaner through the holes and fold ends to create hands.

True or False: Wasps can recognize and remember human faces.

Which land animal can’t jump?

1. Giraffe

2. Rhinoceros

3. Giant Anteater

4. Elephant

Materials:

• Chenille Stems (Pipe Cleaners), Pom Poms & Googly Eyes

• Strong Hole Punch

• Recycled Tin Cans

• Succulent

• Cactus Soil

• Hammer

• Nail

Step 3: Fill the tin can with soil and add your plant. Don’t forget to use succulent soil if necessary!

Step 4: Now the fun part! Use the accessories to add some personality to the tin can.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR ANNUAL MEDIA SPONSORS!

Whisky for Wildlife May 16

Indulge your love for single-barrel whiskies and rare spirits at Whisky for Wildlife on May 16th from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Delight in a curated selection of whiskies, rums, and gins while engaging in enlightening conversations with whisky expert Irene Tan and her certified sommelier team. Proceeds from this exclusive event directly benefit the Zoo’s conservation efforts. This 21+ affair offers limited space, so secure your tickets online in advance.

Your ticket includes 5 curated tastings, a Wee Glencairn tasting glass, appetizers, soft drinks, and access to an exclusive silent auction featuring rare spirits and unique experiences.

Roger Williams Park Zoo is supported and managed by the Rhode Island Zoological Society and is owned by the City of Providence

Editorial

Roger Williams Park Zoo Department of

Marketing and Public Relations

Corrie Ignagni

Vicki Scharfberg

Maxine Colvin

Designer Sara Beatrice

Tandem Designworks

Photo Credits

Roger Williams Park Zoo

WILD is an online publication of the Rhode Island Zoological Society, Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence, Rhode Island 02907-3659 For membership information call (401) 785-3510 x375 or visit rwpzoo.org.

2024 RHODE ISLAND ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Officers

Patrick T. LeBeau, CFP,® Chair

Nancy Allen, Vice Chair

Sandra L. Coletta, Vice Chair

Margaret Ferguson, Secretary

Maribeth Q. Williamson, Treasurer

Board of Trustees

Martha Bower

Douglas Caniglia

Claire Carrabba, Esq

Cheryl Cohen

Sarah Denby

Cindy Erickson

Pamela W. Heffernan

John Igliozzi, Esq

Howard Merten, Esq

Damaris Messina

John H. Mullen

John J. Palumbo

Steven M. Parente

Karen Silva EdD, CHE

Ex-Officio

Stacey Johnson

Executive Director

Rhode Island Zoological Society/ Roger Williams Park Zoo

Wendy Nilsson

Superintendent of Parks

Providence Parks Department

Chair Emerit

Sophie F. Danforth*

Trustees Emeritus

Margaret E. Curran, Esq.

Thomas P. Dimeo*

Jocelin Hamblett

James S. Harper III, VMD*

Bradford B. Kopp

Arthur D. Little

Liz Rollins Mauran

Nancy G.R. Moger

Richard Nadeau

Jane S. Nelson

Cate M. Roberts

Philip A. Segal, Jr.

Robert F. Stoico

*deceased

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