Colchester Zoo Spring Magazine 2018

FREE

Spring 2018

Colchester Zoo’s Um Phafa Nature Reserve updates!

go behind the scenes!

Meet our new arrivals!

ser Get clo Animal with an Experience!

Registered Charity No. 1105621

HELLO! www.colchesterzoo.org

Zoo events!

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/

T LATES NEWS!

/ / / /

/ / / /

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/

ents! m p lo e v e d & s l a New arriv

/ / / /

/ / / /

NEW

for 2018!

Contents:

Zoo Passes

pg 5

Interactive Zone

Zoo Highlights

pg 9

Fuel Your Adventure!

pg 10, 11, 20 & 21

Animal Experiences

Animal Adoptions

Corporate Opportunities

pg 13

pg 14

Conservation at Home

pg 15

Fun Facts Kids’ Activities MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

Spring Shopping

pg 12, 22 & 25

Action for the Wild

2

UmPhafa Reserve

pg 8

A Day in the Life Zoo News

Kids’ Experiences

pg 6

Dates for your Diary

© David Marsay

pg 16 - 17 © Dana Pavel

© Tom Smith

© Matt Barker

pg 18 pg 19 pg 24

pg 26 pg 28

pg 29 pg 30

To advertise in the next edition of t: the Colchester Zoo magazine, contac marketing@colchesterzoo.org 01206 331 292 ext . 245 / 249

Welcome!

Our spring 2018 issue brings you a glimpse of what has been going on at the Zoo since October 2017. We have updates for you from our charity, Action for the Wild, and our UmPhafa Private Nature Reserve in South Africa.

So far, 2018 has had its highs and its lows. Pygmy hippo Venus gave birth to a healthy calf in January but sadly in February we had to say goodbye to one of our longest-standing residents here at Colchester Zoo, Chimpanzee Billy-Joe, who will always be at the heart of Colchester Zoo’s family.

Read more in this iss ue.

We have been working hard to reduce our plastic usage and have recently introduced Vegware straws, cutlery and packaging, which are made from PLA. They are certified compostable as the product can break down in under 12 weeks. We are also striving to reduce sugar products by introducing more ‘Zero sugar’ drinks and healthier options in our food outlets.

Colchester Zoo is continuously developing with the animals and visitors in mind. Spring 2018 will see the completion of phase 2 of Chimpanzee Lookout and a new home for our black and white colobus and patas monkeys, with a climbing frame up to 9m high! We are also making changes to Lion Rock and have future plans in place to improve our admissions building and shop... so watch this space for exciting changes ahead!

Don’t forget!

Our gift and souvenir shops are free to visit so do pop in and see the range of unique gifts and products that we have to offer - we’ve got something for everyone!

The Colchester Zoo Magazine plays a huge part in Colchester Zoo’s mission to further the understanding and respect for animals.

Thank you to those who have helped produce the magazine; without your support this would not be possible. If you would like to support the next edition or suggest a feature for the next magazine, we’d love to hear from you. Email us at marketing@colchesterzoo.org.

We hope that we have the chance to welcome you along to Colchester Zoo soon for an enjoyable visit, knowing you are also assisting conservation!

Remember!

Not only is Colchester Zoo a great day out for all ages, but every visit you make helps us to care for the animals and support many conservation projects worldwide through our charity

Registered Charity No. 1105621

See you soon! Love Happy reading! © David Marsay © Scott Davey © Tom Smith

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

3

Helping our customers to live healthier lives!

Mushroom ragu

ingredients • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Each serving pr

Ready in: 55 minutes Preparation time: 40 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes Serves 4

ov

A hearty mushroom and thyme vegetarian ragu that’s delicious, with fresh pappardelle and a sprinkling of cheese! s: ide

Energy 2052kj / 490kcal / 25% Fat 8.9g / 13% Saturates 2.8g / 14% Sugars 12.6g / 14% Salt 1.33g / 22% Carbohydrate 76.7g Fibre 9.0g Protein 21.7g

1 tbsp olive oil 1 onion, finely chopped 1 celery stick, finely chopped 1 large carrot, peeled and finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 500g mushroom mince 2 sprigs thyme, leaves stripped and finely chopped 1 bay leaf 2 rosemary sprigs, leaves stripped and finely chopped 2 tbsp tomato paste 1 vegetable stock cube, dissolved in 400ml boiling water 400g tin of chopped tomatoes 500g fresh pappardelle 20g vegetarian hard cheese, finely grated, to serve

method 1. Heat the oil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over a medium-high heat and fry the onion, celery and carrot for 8-10 minutes, until soft. Add the garlic and fry for 1 minute, then add the mushroom mince, thyme, bay leaf and rosemary and cook for another 5 minutes.

2. Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring, for 2 more minutes. Pour in the stock and chopped tomatoes, seasoning well. Simmer over a low to medium heat for 20 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.

3. Cook the pappardelle according to the instructions on the packet. Serve with the ragu and a sprinkling of cheese on top.

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MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

Sainsbury’s Stanway Store Manager, Kevin Jones, talks about the company’s progress around two of their corporate values…

Living Healthy Lives

Check out our new bakery range next time you visit the store.

and tasty food Offering our customers healthy, nutritious, To do this, ess. has always been at the heart of our busin sary, reformulate we continuously review and, where neces our ambient nched re-lau tly recen have We cts. our produ s of sugar tonne 400 over ving remo s, squashes and mixer reviewed and and 12 red traffic light labels. We have also removing over re-launched our 1 litre chilled smoothies, 8 tonnes of sugar. healthily, but also We know that our customers like to eat tly introduced recen we so , treat t swee enjoy the occasional re bakeries. The mini a range of mini fruit tarts within our in-sto 2 fewer red traffic and strawberry tart has 450 fewer calories providing customers light labels than a standard-sized fruit tart, n. with a delicious treat optio

A Great Place to Work!

Our colleagues are our foundation and we harness their talent, creativity and diversity to ensure that customers receive great service every time they shop at Sainsbury’s. Our aim is to be the most inclusive retailer, where people love to work and shop, and it continues to be our priority to increase the diversity of our work force to reflect the communities we serve.

Since 1974, we have also offered apprenticeships and we’re committed to investing in training and development. We currently have around 800 colleagues enrolled onto apprenticeship programmes, all supporting our desire to create ‘a great place to work’ and somewhere everyone can grow, develop, flourish and be the best they can be.

As part of our corporate strategy in supporting our colleagues, we have created: • Female mentoring circles • A networking group, including a panel of BAME (Black, Asian, Minority and Ethnic) colleagues • Support for those who are carers • Support for Proud events across the UK for our LGBT colleagues

Sushi Gourmet

Sushi Gourmet has recently opened a new counter operation in the Sainsbury ’s Stanway store. All products are made daily by skilled sushi chefs in front of customers, using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients. They create a wide range of take away products from rolls, combo boxes, vegetarian, sides and desserts.

For more information about Sainsbury’s corporate values visit

www.sainsburys.co.uk

Save with a 9th 10th

25% friends & family entry discount

(For 2 accompanying guests per visit.

Terms and conditions apply.)

Exclusive Passholder events!

Including 25% off for 2 accompanying guests to our Passholder event ‘Wake Up with Colchester Zoo’!

%

Discounts for shops, experiences & food!

Including 20% discount in Penguini’s Restaurant & Southern Kitchen when you spend over £10.00!

Optional regular E-letter updates and an online edition of the Colchester Zoo Magazine

ZOO 12 months unlimited entry!*

PLUS Free entry to other selected zoos!

Buy 4 or more &

SAVE 10%

* Additional terms and conditions and charges apply for some secondary attractions, including Fright Nights and the Magic of Christmas.

Purchase at the Zoo or www.colchesterzoo.org

© Barbara Meyer

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

5

n bu y e-t ic ke ts iine advance onl a n d S AV E !

Don’t miss our Rise and Dine!

Chraracter breakfasts

13th May 23rd September

exciting events for 2018!

Father’s Day 17th June

wake up with

Easter at the Zoo! Love Your Zoo Week! during May Half Term

30th March - 15th April 26th May - 3rd June

Join us for activities that raise awareness the important work we do for conservation, education and research.

Special Senses 23rd June EXCLUSIVE PASSHOLDER EVENT

Summer Holidays!

Passholder family and friends discount applicable - check ts and cs for more information.

7th July*

*Participant must hold a valid Zoo Pass

Open until 6:30pm

21st July - 3rd September

Starlight Safari Nights 15th & 29th September

Open until 9:30pm

A magical twilight spectacular as we remain open late into the evening!

20th - 28th October Selected nights ONLY

Spook-tacular daytime fun for the whole family during the Halloween half term!

20th, 22nd, 24th, 26th & 27th October Dare to stay after dark for some frightening fun!

24th & 25th November, 1st & 2nd, 8th & 9th and 15th - 24th December Immerse yourself in the wonderful atmosphere of the winter wonderland!

Stay later on our Christmas Starlight Nights!

24th November, 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd and

WRISTBAND REQUIRED*

Exclusive christmas experiences!

Check out our website for more information about these pre-bookable events!

LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE

23rd December

These are just some of the events for 2018. Please see the full events calendar at www.colchesterzoo.org * NB. Colchester Zoo will charge a supplement for passholders, Tesco vouchers and any other persons not paying full admission for entry to certain secondary attractions included within special events such as, but not limited to, Fright Nights and The Magic of Christmas. Please ensure you are familiar with the updated terms and conditions.

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MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

shopping A

ADVENTURE

UP TO 60% OFF EVERY DAY

PR OU DLY LI NK ED W IT H

Happy. High-achieving.

St Mary’s is a happy, high-achieving independent school for girls aged 3-16 and boys aged 3-4. Every student is valued and encouraged to succeed.

SATs and 11+ success 92% GCSE pass-rate Superb arts and sport

St Mary’s

Colchester

Small classes Caring, supportive ethos School bus network

Contact our Registrar on 01206 216420 registrar@stmaryscolchester.org.uk to arrange your visit. Find out more at www.stmaryscolchester.org.uk

AT

The Premier Outlet in Essex

freeport-braintree.com MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

7

We are excited to announce that we have now opened our brand new ‘Interactive Zone’ at Colchester Zoo’s Discovery Centre!

Make your own landscape out of sand and watch as rivers and mountains appear with the changing levels you create!

With African savannah & dinosaur themes, you’ll be able to see some well-known species walking on the land that you’ve created!

Visit our website to watch a video of the sand pit in action!

The Interactive Zone also gives you the chance to create your own sea creature or dinosaur and watch it come to life!

Choose your animal, create a funky design, scan it onto the screen and see your creation swim in the ocean amongst the other colourful fish, or walk amongst the other dinosaurs!

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MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

* Please be aware that we cannot guarantee which sand or screen theme will be available during your visit.

A day in the life of the FARM Team!

The farm team is the largest at Colchester Zoo, with 14 keepers looking after: • Pigs • Bugs • Goats & sheep • Rats • Lorikeets, • Chickens • Giant tortoises • Koi carp • Snakes • Wallabies • Horses & donkeys • Skinks& • Llamas & alpacas • Reindeer • Bearded dragons • Rheas • Rabbits & guinea pigs

W eig hin g a gi a nt t o rt ois e !

They also carry out animal transport to and from the Zoo! The first job for the team every morning is to count all the animals, including all the lorikeets!

They have to count every single bird, usually by trying to split them into more manageable groups!

Before the Zoo opens, the team will also them check the health of the animals, feed all and clean the enclosures.

The team engages with visitors in Colenso Village and at the Sensation Station, providing close up encounters and opportunities to feed and hold some little creatures!

ill do some form Everyday, they w ming and of training, groo the animals, enrichment with the including taking for a walk!

Kune Kune pigs

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

9

ZOO NEWS

Colchester Zoo is home to over 260 species!

Find out what some of them have been up to recently and learn more about our latest arrivals!

Our first tamandua baby has been named !

At the end of September 2017, we were extremely excited to announce the birth of the first baby tamandua to be born in Colchester Zoo’s history, to our pair, Oreo and Ruth.

The young tamandua has since been confirmed as female and has been named Orinoco by her keepers!

Orinoco is now almost fully grown and can be seen exploring her home, learning to feed herself and, of course, climb!

Elephant Bush Walk NOW OPEN!

Colchester Zoo has reopened the full pathway around Elephant Kingdom!

The new ‘Elephant Bush Walk’ gives visitors the chance to walk the full length of our two elephant paddocks and see our bull elephant, Tembo! It also creates a shortcut between Edge of Africa and the Koi Niwa and Sensation Station areas!

Male zebra joins the herd!

On the 22nd November 2017, we welcomed a zebra stallion to Colchester Zoo from Denmark who has since been named Ziggy by his new keepers.

After spending a few days settling into his new surroundings, Ziggy was successfully introduced to the rest of the zebra herd, made up of 3 females. Since then, he has also been spending time getting to know the rest of the African species he shares his home with and happily grazing with them in the main paddock.

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MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

New arrival is the cherry on top!

ZOO NEWS

On the 12th December, cherry-crowned mangabeys, Kanye and Suna, welcomed their first baby together! The baby can be seen clinging onto mum and learning the ropes as a mangabey monkey!

Rare deer born on Boxing Day!

This species is also known as the red capped mangabey due to the red fur on the top of their head.

On 26th December, Colchester Zoo saw the arrival of its very own Christmas calf as an adorable Philippine spotted deer was born to first time mum, Luna, and dad, Mulhouse.

Both mum and her new arrival are doing extremely well, with the youngster already going outside to explore its home with the rest of the group, including Grandmother Aurora!

Colchester Zoo has not welcomed a spotted deer calf since 2008 when new mum, Luna, was born. So this is very exciting news for this species, which is currently listed as endangered on the IUCN red list.

Philippine or Visayan spotted deers are one of the rarest and most narrowly distributed mammals in the world! © David Marsay

© Carl Newell

© Debbie Pavier

© Scott Davey

Tiny new rainbow arrivals!

We’re delighted to announce the recent arrival of rainbow lorikeet chicks, who have continued to grow healthy and strong over the recent weeks.

Unlike their name suggests, all rainbow lorikeet chicks start life with fluffy grey feathers before they gradually gain their bright plumage!

Once the new arrivals have grown in size they can be mixed with the rest of the group, and learn the stages of adult life, including how to eat the nectar these birds love so much!

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

11

Animal experiences Perfect Partners

at

Keeper for the Day Step into the boots of a zoo keeper for an amazing day that will take you closer to the animals than ever before!

Keeper Shadowing Keeper Shadowing offers the chance to enjoy a close-up and personal, amazing experience with your favourite animal.

Package includes:

• Close-up 30 minute experience with your chosen animal and their keeper.

• Complimentary entry for the whole day.

• Meal voucher.

• Souvenir bag. * Terms and conditions apply.

Whatever the occasion, this shared, close-up animal experience followed by a delicious table service meal for two with your perfect partner at Colchester Zoo will give you memories to treasure forever!

PLUS

discount for a second person to take part with you!

Package includes:

Package includes: • A 30 minute close-up experience for two with your chosen species.

• Table service, two-course meal at Penguini’s with your choice of drink to accompany your meal.

• Souvenir photograph of yourselves taking part in the experience.

• Souvenir bag.

• Complimentary entry for the whole day.

• Time spent behind the scenes (3hrs 45mins) with the animals and their keepers.

• A voucher for your 1 hour lunch at Penguini’s restaurant.

• A souvenir bag to remember your special day.

• Complimentary entry for the whole day. * Terms and conditions apply.

Three amazing hands on experiences to choose from!

Email: experiences@colchesterzoo.org Tel: 01206 331292 ext. 232 / 237 www.colchesterzoo.org

* Terms and conditions apply.

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MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

Find out more...

© Tom Smith © David Marsay

What is Action for the Wild?

Action for the Wild is Colchester Zoo’s conservation charity, which gained its status in 2004.

To date, Action for the Wild has donated over £2 million to conservation projects worldwide. These funds are put towards building work, staff wages, medical treatment, food, research projects and more within each organisation.

FIND Action for the Wild also runs its own wildlife reserve OUT MORE in South Africa known as UmPhafa, which aims ON PG19 to introduce and care for local flora and fauna.

Charity No. 1105621

Check out the latest news from some of the projects we support...

In 2017, Action for the Wild donated

£5,000

Free the Bears

to help build a In 2017 alone, 10 bears quarantine facility were rescued from the for a new bear illegal wildlife trade. sanctuary in Action for the Wild’s donation Laos.

helped cover 50% of the costs of construction of phase one of the new facility.

The foundations, frame and roof of the quarantine facility have been designed initially to house the bears rescued from the first closure of a bear bile farm in Laos, with around 20 bears planned to arrive in the first half of 2018.

During 2017, Free the Bears also opened a new bear house to re-home seven moon bears, and a new cub hand rearing / nursery area is also under construction to care for the younger bears. Their fantastic work will continue in 2018 with the help of Action of the Wild.

Wildlife Vets International Through its Tiger Health Programme, Wildlife Vets International provide clinical services, on-site training, disease investigation and some research activities for a variety of wild tiger projects in different countries.

In 2017, Action for the Wild donated

£5,000

to start producing a web-based information Their new website, funded by Action for the service, the ‘Wild Wild, will disseminate up-to-date information Tiger Health on tiger health issues, provide basic online Centre’ training and establish connectivity between tiger vets.

Throughout 2017, progress has been made on an offline version of the website, in the hope that it will go live by mid-2018.

The website will also include modules on mitigating tiger-human conflicts and a contact list of experienced vets and biologists that are willing to help others.

This will go a long way in supporting the field vets and increasing their capabilities, confidence and usefulness to tiger conservation.

How can you help?

If you are interested in helping Action for the Wild’s projects, such as Free the Bears, then DONATE TODAY!

You can do this online, during your visit to Colchester Zoo at an animal encounter or by supporting our own project in South Africa, the UmPhafa Reserve.

Visit www.actionforthewild.org MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

13

adopt an animal!

Do you share a name with one of our animals or do they remind you a little of someone you know?

Or why not mark a special occasion in a unique way by adopting an animal at Colchester Zoo?

An adoption helps contribute to their care , and assists our charity Charity no. 1105621

Corporate Adoption

You can choose almost any of the animals at Colchester Zoo to adopt and receive a photograph and information all about your new charge, including a personalised certificate... PLUS more benefits! Visit our website for more details.

Assist conse rvation & promote y our involvem ent to stakehold ers with a corporate ad option.

01206 331292 / www.colchesterzoo.org / enquiries@colchesterzoo.org / visit Guest Services 14

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

Š David Marsay

IT TAKES A FAMILY TO RAISE A BABY ELEPHANT! As the largest land mammal, African elephants have a 22 month pregnancy. When calves are born, they are nearly blind and have to rely on their trunks to navigate the world around them.

FUN F A C T S The nose that knows!

The aardvark’s snout is its best feature!

In the deserts of Africa, they use their nose to explore the world around them. They have an impressive sense of smell to sniff out their insect prey, and have the ability to seal their nostrils to keep dust and creepy crawlies from invading their DID YOU nose. Their 30cm-long tongue KNOW? is able to snake through termite Their name means mounds to find the tastiest insects, ‘earth pig’ in Afrikaans and their tough skin stops them and they’re seen as a from getting nasty bites.

Young elephants need their mother’s milk for the first 4 to 6 years.

Luckily, African elephants live in large female groups, so all the aunts, cousins, sisters and grandmothers help to give mum a break, which is useful as baby elephants are very adventurous!

A baby orangutan stays with its mum for around seven years; the longest time for any ape!

Baby orangutans need their mum to teach them how to find food, such as nuts, fruits and insects. The baby also needs to learn how to eat them, like using sticks to ‘fish’ for termites.

Orangutans are naturally solitary, but mother and baby orangutans create such a special bond that, once the babies are old enough to fend for themselves, they will still make time to visit their mums now and then, right up to the age of 15!

Than ks m u m!

The award for best mum does NOT go to...

symbol of hard work and good fortune!

A female Komodo dragon can lay up to 30 eggs at one time and will build a special nest to keep her eggs safe, but will also build a second nest to act as a decoy to confuse any predators!

The eggs are incubated for up to nine months, but once they hatch, the babies have to make a run for it to avoid becoming their mum’s next meal! A baby dragon is only 30cm long and will instantly climb up trees for their own safety and stay up high for up to four years, until they become big enough to live the rest of their lives on the ground. © David Marsay

© Scott Davey

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

15

Kid s’ Act iv it ie s

e! v i t a e r c t e G

Riddle me this!

Colour in the butterf ly!

I live in the forest and eat all my greens , I come from the South of America, it see ms.

I’m so very slow and no race will I win, But I do share my name with a great dea dly sin!

What am I? ___________________ 52

1

51

2

49 47

Work out the right places for the missing numbers!

Every box, row and column must contain numbers one to six without being repeated.

2 1 5 6

6 5

5 3

1 2

46

Join the dots!

Kids’ Sudoku!

2 1

4

JOIN THE DOTS to reveal Noot the _ _ _ _ _ _ _!

44

4

43

42

37

6

35

7

3

8 9

10

11

23 22

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

41

38 40 39

36

12

16

45

3

5

2 1

50

34 33 30 32 21 25 29 26 28 31 20 24 27 16 17 19 15 18 13 14

48

Crossword!

1.

4.

5.

2.

8.

3.

9.

DOWN 1. Which dragon is named after the island it comes from?

2. Which country do lemurs come from?

3. Which animal has a trunk?

4. What is the name of Colchester Zoo’s Private Nature Reserve in South Africa?

5. Which species of penguin lives at Colchester Zoo? 6. Which species of rhino do we have at Colchester Zoo? 7. Solve this anagram for the tallest land mammal in the world - EFGIARF

6.

7.

10.

ACROSS: 2. Mandrills are the world’s largest _____?

7. What does lemur mean in Latin? Clue: you may find one in a haunted house.

8. At Colchester Zoo, which species of dog can you see whilst queuing for the Lost Madagascar Express Train?

9. Which ape species is the ‘old man of the forest’?

10. Which African cat is the fastest land mammal?

11. What do you call a group of lions?

12. Which is bigger, an African or Asian elephant?

13. Is a chimpanzee a monkey or an ape?

12.

11.

TIP: Explore the Zoo or check k out our website or souvenir boo s! wer to help you find any tricky ans

13.

Animal Jumble!

ELEPHANT

Cut out the cards below and jumble them up. Pick a card from the pile and see if you can describe the animal to your friends WITHOUT saying the words on the card!

TIGER

SNAKE

Don’t say the words below:

Don’t say the words below:

Don’t say the words below:

TRUNK TUSK BIG

STRIPES CAT CLAW

SLITHER HISS SCALES

GIRAFFE

Don’t say the words below:

PENGUIN

Don’t say the words below:

CHIMPANZEE

TALL NECK LONG

WATER FISH FLIPPER

TREE SWING BROWN

Don’t say the words below:

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

17

!

Kids’ Experiences at We offer a selection of birthday packages designed to suit a range of ages, including:

nic - 3+ Tedd y Bear s’ Pic Party with Puddles - 5+ Animal Antics Party - 8+

Be a PARTY ANIMAL for outstanding value for money!

Nature Detective Squad - 8+ - All ages Jungle Tumble Play Pa rty

*Additional children can be added to parties at an extra cost.

Packages available for up to 10 children (15 children for Jungle Tumble Play Party)* Find out more about our great party packages ONLINE!

Kids’ Zoo Academy

Terms and conditions apply.

These experiences are perfect for any child who dreams of one day working with animals to enjoy a ‘hands on’ lesson with expert tuition from our keepers!

2 hour packages include:

Fledgling Keeper Age 6 - 9 yrs Afternoon experience 13:30 - 15:30 18

• Complimentary entry for the whole day for participating child and supervising adult over the age of 18yrs • 2 hours spent with the animals and their keepers • Refreshment voucher • Personalised certificate and souvenir bag

Zoo Cadet Age 10 - 15 yrs Morning experience 10:00 - 12:00 MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

Terms and conditions apply.

Find out more...

Email: experiences@colchesterzoo.org Tel: 01206 331292 ext. 232 / 237 www.colchesterzoo.org

u m p h a fa

DID YOU KNOW? The UmPhafa Reserve is named after the buffalo thorn or UmPhafa tree, which can be found throughout the reserve.

The UmPhafa Priv ate Nature Reserve in South Africa was established in 2005 by Colchester Zoo’s c harity,

private natur e res erve NEWS !

2017 HIGHLIGHTS

ACTION FOR THE WILD donated over

£251,000

to ensure the continued running of the reserve.

2017 AERIAL GAME COUNT FIGURES OF VISIBLE SPECIES 7 White Rhino 29 Giraffe 56 Red Hartebeest 213 Impala 160 Blesbok 26 Common Reedbuck 9 Mountain Reedbuck 305 Zebra 116 Waterbuck

The internship sche me continues to develo p with

65 interns

visiting the reserve in 2017, staying for a total of

68 months

HS)

INTERNSHIPS (1 - 3 MONT

Looking to gain hands-on conservation experience

Our internship programme offers anyone interested in African wildlife and conservation the chance to gain skills that help in the operation of a game reserve, including night time bush drives, behavioural studies and flora and fauna survey work.

32 495 42 222 258 30 10 8

Nyala Kudu Duiker Warthog Blue Wildebeest Eland Ostrich Bushbuck

PLACEMENT

S (2 WEEKS)

your chance to visit umphaf a our special two-week prog with ramme!

Whether you are a re

cent graduate, in emplo yment or retired, this is a fan tastic opportunity for th ose who are keen to lend a hand to nature and explore a beautiful pa rt of the world outside our usual busy season.

Check the website for our

For more information: www.umphafa.org or umphafa@colchesterzoo.org

2 week placements.

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

19

ZOO NEWS

Blue duiker calf named!

On Friday 29th September blue duiker, Jasmine, gave birth to a single, healthy male calf! Both mum and her new arrival are doing well as Jasmine continues to be a very attentive mother. Dad, Jafar, is also lending a hand to keep an eye on the youngster.

This is Jasmine’s first offspring and a big achievement for her as she only has three legs due to an injury, which resulted in amputation. Since then, we were unsure whether Jasmine would be able to conceive. This is also an extra exciting new arrival for us here at Colchester Zoo as this is the first blue duiker to be born here, so we are thrilled that Jasmine and Jafar have become parents.

Colchester Zoo wins two Primary Times Star Awards!

This year we have been announced as the ‘Best Family Attraction in Essex’ as well as ‘Best Halloween Attraction in Essex’.

It is fantastic for the Zoo to be recognised as a great family day out and for our Halloween events, which are one of the highlights of Colchester Zoo’s annual event calendar for both staff and visitors.

A huge thank you to all those who voted for us!

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MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

Keepers have named the new arrival Aladdin and, as he continues to grow bigger and stronger, he is also getting more adventurous. Aladdin has been exploring his new home and getting to know the blue cranes with whom he shares his home.

Cheetah brothers arrive!

Introducing cheetahs Abasi and Azizi, two brothers from France who arrived on 11th February!

Abasi means ‘serious’ in Egyptian, whilst Azizi means ‘precious’. The duo have settled in well and have been busy exploring their new home. At only 18 months old, the brothers will stay together, spending time individually with female cheetah, Sia, in the near future.

We hope to have the pitter patter of tiny paws as part of the breeding programme for this species in the near future!

See the brothers in their new home at the Edge of Africa! © Scott Davey

l! va ri ar ew n e’s di ed Fr & us n Ve r fo y ra opp Hip-hi

ZOO NEWS

On the evening of the 27th January, our pygmy hippopotamus, Venus, gave birth to a female calf after a gestation period of 6 months.

The baby has since been named, Juno, who was the wife of Jupiter, according to Roman mythology.

Juno is Venus and Freddie’s third calf together and is fantastic news for the conservation of their species with the pygmy hippopotamus currently being listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List.

Juno will remain with her mum through her early years as she learns the ropes, and she can be seen exploring her home and already loves taking a dip in the pool!

We are deeply saddened to announce the loss of chimpanzee Billy-Joe At over 40yrs old, Billy-Joe was one of the longest-standing residents here at Colchester Zoo. She arrived in the late 70’s aged approximately 6 years after spending her formative years in a research facility. She came with very few details about herself, just her name, but quickly had a special place in our hearts.

On the afternoon of Wednesday 21st February, keepers were concerned for Billy-Joe as she was not using her right leg to walk and there was swelling around her ankle.

A medical examination and x-rays determined she was suffering from what we know as deep vein thrombosis in her lower leg, a blood clot stopping the blood circulation to her foot.

Unfortunately, despite medication and other treatments, Billy-Joe showed no signs of improvement, and so on Thursday 1st March, the hardest but kindest decision was made to put Billy-Joe to sleep.

Since living at Colchester Zoo, Billy-Joe became a mother to Tara and Kora, grandmother to Tekita and great grandmother to Tumba and Talia. She leaves behind a great legacy and was one of the Zoo’s most treasured animal friends. She will be greatly missed by her chimpanzee family, her loyal supporters of the Zoo, and her dedicated keepers.

Billy-Joe will always be at the heart of Colchester Zoo’s family.

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

21

Animal experiences Wild Encounters for Two Package includes: • Exclusive access behind the scenes for 3½ hours.

• Close-up sessions with the animals!

• Experienced host.

• Complimentary entry for the whole day.

• Hot or cold drinks and light bites on arrival.

• Two-course, table service meal at Penguini’s restaurant in a private room.

• Choice of drink to accompany your meal.

• One year adoption of the animal of your choice.

• Adoption plaque at adopted species’ enclosure.

• Souvenir gift bags.

• Two complimentary entries for a return visit.

• Reserved parking. * Terms and conditions apply.

Find out more...

Email: experiences@colchesterzoo.org Tel: 01206 331292 ext. 232 / 237 www.colchesterzoo.org Exploring the very heart of Colchester Zoo, you will stop off to meet, stroke or feed a whole variety of amazing animals, including elephants, giraffes, tigers, sealions, meerkats, lemurs, penguins, monkeys, otters, aardvarks and more!

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MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

at

If you wish, a third guest can be added at an additional cost.

You will embark on an exciting adventure as you are guided behind the scenes to meet some of the most amazing animals on the planet.

With opportunities to meet, stroke or feed a whole range of species, including aardvarks, tigers, giraffes, penguins, lemurs and meerkats, this experience will give you magical memories to share forever.

The Extraordinary Experience

Up to 6 more guests can be added at a reduced cost!

Be VIPs for the day with some of the finest and most intimate close-up animal experiences that a group can enjoy together!

Package is for up to 4 guests and includes: • Exclusive access behind the scenes for the day.

• Close-up sessions with an array of different animals!

• Experienced host for the whole day.

• Priority complimentary entry for the whole day.

• Hot or cold drinks and light breakfast on arrival.

• Two-course table service lunch at Penguini’s restaurant in a private room.

• Souvenir gift bags.

• Afternoon refreshments.

• Reserved parking.

Maximum group of 10 guests. No age restriction but under 18s must be accompanied by supervising adults over 18 yrs.

* Terms and conditions apply.

© Tom Smith

Waldegraves Holiday Park The place to stay in Essex

Discounted tickets available with your booking!

short breaks from

£139 per holiday Home*

Call now for your free brochure 01206 382898 or visit www.waldegraves.co.uk pick up when a printed for offer details.

Save 20% onPlease your holiday youmagazine call us and quote 'Colchester ZOO'** WALDEGRAVES HOLIDAY PARK, MERSEA ISLAND, COLCHESTER, CO5 8SE

*Based on 4 night midweek break in March. **This cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Excluding School & Bank Holidays. T’s & C’s apply.

London Road and Tiptree Veterinary Centres Your pet’s health at heart

Passionate vets and nurses that treat every patient as if they were their own.

SUNDAY 8TH APRIL AT 15:00 & 19:00 WWW.PRINCESTHEATRE.CO.UK | 01255 686633

Tiptree Veterinary Centre

London Road Vets, Colchester

www.tiptreevets.co.uk

www.londonroadvets.uk

01621 818282

01206 544918

Out of Hours Emergency Service: 07754 676560 MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

23

2017 PORT E R L A U ANN hlights Hig

Species Breakdown

A TOTAL OF

1,051,685

29% Mammals

visitors in 2017

15% Birds

579,548 general visits and 472,137 passholder visits

12% Reptiles 4% Amphibians 14% Invertebrates

Breeding programme

26% Fish

68 of the species at Colchester Zoo are part of either the European Endangered Species Breeding Programme (EEP) or the European Studbook (ESB).

259

species at Colchester Zoo

49 Mammals 12 Birds 7

Reptiles/Amphibians

Education Programme 872

schools visited Colchester Zoo

26,380 pupils taught in 991 education sessions Winner of the 2017 BIAZA

(British and Irish Association for Zoos and Aquariums)

Malcolm Whitehead Education Bronze Award for our maths sessions and resources

24

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

1

12

Extinct in the Wild

Critically Endangered

Butterfly Splitfin Fish

Mammals: 6 Birds: 2 Reptiles: 3 Fish: 1

Research Pojects Over the academic year of 2016/2017, 31 research projects were conducted at Colchester Zoo: 21 projects were at BSc Level 5 projects were at MSc Level 2 projects were at FdSc level 1 at level 3 extended diploma 2 by other institutions

Animal experiences

at

Hen Parties Looking for a unique way to celebrate your final before the ring?

fling

With inspiration from our saucy sealions, passionate penguins, loving lemurs and gentle giraffes, we explore LOVE in the animal kingdom!

This hen party for the bride and her friends includes fun activities and hands-on animal encounters to remember forever!

Release your

WILD SIDES before the big day!

Terms and conditions apply.

© Barbara Meyer

© Scott Davey

Find out more...

Email: experiences@colchesterzoo.org Tel: 01206 331292 ext. 232 / 237 www.colchesterzoo.org

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

25

FABZOOLOUS FOOD

Indulge in a selection of options throughout the park!

We a have v lso eg panini an s!

Do you have a Zoo Pass?

You can

SAVE

20%*

When you spend over ÂŁ10 in one transaction * Offer not valid on sweets or in conjunction with any other offer. Valid only on presentation of a valid Zoo Pass.

Colchester Zoo continues to go GREEN! We have introduced BELU water Not o to Colchester Zoo! is BELU nly more en Belu does not export its water making it 100% carbon neutral and all packaging is made of highly recycled content.

26

NEW!

Dairy free, gluten free and vegan friendly ice cream!

t C he c k ou t s our late ll as we e off rs, as n and ia r vegeta ee gluten fr s me nu !

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

viro friendlynmentally , profits but their ar donatede also WaterA to id.

in

or

THE SOUT HERN KITCHEN

We are working towards having products with either no palm oil or sustainable palm oil.

In 2017, we have gone palm oil free in two of our outlets: Hot Potato and Chip Shop.

All our straws, cutlery and coffee cup lids are now completely compostable!

These low carbon products are made using renewable resources and naturally break down in under 12 weeks.

A whole day of non-stop family fun & adventure in the forest!

• Play areas for all ages • Walking and cycling trails • Go Ape Tree Top Adventure, Forest Segway & Tree Top Junior* • Bike shop & hire from BikeArt • Cafe

Please pick up a printed magazine for offerPERdetails.

PERSON*

10%

T: 01842 810090 www.bikeartthetford.co.uk

SAVE 10% QUOTE CZTHL8 T: 0845 094 8704† www.goape.co.uk

T: 01842 813949 www.highlodge-catering.co.uk

Directions: High Lodge is situated in Thetford Forest on the B1107. Sat Nav: IP27 0AF. Open every day (excluding Christmas Day). Discovery Pass available. All cars and minibuses must pay a site entry fee. Additional charges for Go Ape & bike hire. For more info call 01842 815434. *Go Ape offer valid until 31st December 2018, excluding Saturdays, bank holidays, Corporate Events & purchase of gift vouchers. Discount code must be entered at time of booking. Only valid at Thetford Forest. Participation and supervision ratios apply - please see our website.

Participation and supervision ratios apply - please see our website. †Calls cost 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge.

forestry.gov.uk/highlodge

S p rin g t im e S h o p p in g AT COLCHESTER ZOO!

Check out our

homewares &

zoo-themed items.

Explore our beautiful collection of Wrendale cards and matching gifts.

NEW lines coming to r Acacia fo all ages!

n Pop in whe t! si vi xt e n you

FREE

New sculpture collection from Richard Cooper Studio.

parking and entry to shops! (during Zoo opening hours)

Bring learning to life!

With our exciting EDUCATION SESSIONS at

Maths Science Conservation and MORE!

Find out more www.colchesterzoo.org

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MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

As we look forward to the warmer weather, it’s time to spruce up your home or treat someone special!

We have a variety of

gift vouchers for experiences, passes or monetary vouchers!

shop online!

Check out the website and click on the ‘shop’ button.

www.colchesterzoo.org

S IE IT N U T R O P P O E T A R O P R O C

Colchester Zoo is well known for its conservation work an d attracts visitors from all over the world.

Reach new markets by sponsoring a location at

It is a powerful cons ervation brand for your company to be associated with in order to increase its own recognition and fulfil its CSR go als.

With over 1 million visitors annually and over 60,000 an nual Passholders, Colchester Zoo offe rs huge marketing opportun ities to tap into.

We offer a number of corporate opportunities, including: Company VIP away days Trade Ticket Accounts

Corporate Sponsorship

Advertising space in the Colchester Zoo Magazine ptions

o Corporate Ad

With different activities available, teams can focus on communication, planning, time budgeting, design, debating skills and reasoning, all whilst having fun!

Find out more...

Email: experiences@colchesterzoo.org Tel: 01206 331292 ext. 232 / 237 www.colchesterzoo.org

Team Building

Colche receives ster Zoo funding no external , support so corporate is further vital for its develop ment, as well as as projects sisting in the wild .

team building Colchester Zoo provides a unique location for your next team building event that’s sure to challenge, stimulate, reward and boost your team’s morale.

Full or half day package includes complimentary entry for the whole day, breakfast and lunch, morning/afternoon activities, including feeding of elephants, giraffes & penguins, and more!

Terms and conditions apply.

© Tom Smith

© David Marsay

MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

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Conservation at Home Check out these 5 recommended plants, which are perfect for insects and birds and should be planted in the Spring.

Sunflowers

You can plant these large plants once the risk of frost has passed.

When the large heads flower, they will offer delicious seeds for birds.

FOXGLOVES

If you are looking to grow these from seeds, you can do so in early Spring. They will then bloom between June and September and are a favourite among bees! Please be aware they can be poisonous to pets.

THYME

This herb not only creates a great aroma, it also provides excellent ground cover in smaller gravel gardens and creates a safe haven for invertebrates.

Lavender

Another popular plant with bees, this can also be a magnet for butterflies.

In addition, birds can tuck into the seeds, making it an all-round feast for wildlife!

honeysuckle

Honeysuckle can grow to be a thick and well-established plant, which can even be used by small birds as a nest site.

The flowers attract bees, bugs and butterflies, and birds also enjoy eating their berries.

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MAGAZINE • ISSUE 12

As we look forward to the warmer months, it’s time to get back out in the garden and make plans for summer! Planting not only creates a lovely multi-coloured garden, whatever the size, but it is also a great way to attract wildlife to your garden!

Qu ick tip!

During the warmer months, it’s important to water your plants regularly. Rainwater is a great way to do this and you can collect it yourself using a water butt all year round! acia gift shop Colchester Zoo’s Ac e of wind chimes, has a fantastic rang rful bird feeders and colou garden! ur yo r animal decorations fo

This is also a great way to reuse and conserve water!

fun buggies Put the little ones in the driving seat of our all-new fun buggies for more fun than they can honk at.

Š 2018 intu properties plc

Fun, fun

PleaseFree pickfun upbuggy a printed forshow offerthis details. hiremagazine when you ad

*Valid until 1 Sept 2018. Terms and conditions apply, please visit intu.co.uk/lakeside for details

115953 - LS Zoo Ad 200x204mm v1 LY.indd 1

06/03/2018 15:09

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