PENGUIN PATROL
Saving wildlife through groundbreaking research
INSIDE:
Detroit Zoo partners to combat global illegal wildlife r i g
FROM THE DIRECTOR
Spring is here — and we couldn’t be more excited at the Detroit Zoological Society (DZS)!
As the world awakens from community comes back to life, there’s an undeniable sense of renewal in the air. But while nature was resting, our team has been hard at work all season long, and we have plenty to share with you!
In this Habitat issue, you’ll explore some incredible things happening at the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center. You’ll discover how a groundbreaking conservation study is helping save wild penguins and learn about our latest initiative to combat the illegal wildlife trade. Plus, you’ll enjoy fun activities for kids, pick up expert sustainability
wildlife — right from your own backyard.
So dive in, get inspired and then come see it all in person! We can’t wait to welcome you to the Zoo and Nature Center to create a meaningful connection with animals and nature. See you soon!
Dr. Hayley Murphy, DVM Executive Director and CEO
PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT AND DESIGN
Crain's Content Studio
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
Sarah Culton
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Christina Ross
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Karen Dybis
CONTACT
Detroit Zoological Society 8450 W. 10 Mile Road Royal Oak, MI 48067
Phone: (248) 541-5717 www.detroitzoo.org
For questions about membership, please contact: info@dzs.org
AN INTERVIEW WITH VETERINARIAN DR. WYNONA
Dr. Wynona Shellabarger has been a veterinarian with the Detroit Zoo for more than 17 years. She spends her days providing medical care to the animals who call the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center home — from tiny amphibians to massive mammals.
o did o g i o d o zoo veterinary medicine?
I probably didn’t go what would be a traditional route today. In veterinary school, my interests were in equine and small animal medicine. I’m from Illinois, and it wasn’t until I moved to the Toledo area that I started volunteering at zoos. I fell in love with it, so I did an internship. Once I got involved with this and had some amazing experiences, I never considered doing anything else. It’s been a really rewarding, challenging, exciting job.
do o o o o r o
I always learn something new and never know what species I may be working with on a given day. I’m working with anything from an amphibian the size of my pinky all the way up to animals the size of a polar bear, giraffe or rhino. We have a diverse population of amphibians, birds, mammals and reptiles. It’s our job as veterinarians to be ready to take care of any of those at any given moment. That’s what makes this job exciting and new every single day. Another thing that keeps me going is the comradery and teamwork aspect. I love working with a group of people who are so passionate about the animals they care for. It’s exciting to work together for positive change and know that you’ve made a difference in an animal’s life.
r i i o d an impact on you?
I hesitate to single out any species as I love working with them all. However, one of my roles is as a veterinary advisor for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums
“I always learn something new and never know what species I may be working with on a given day. I'm working with anything from an amphibian the size of my pinky all the way up to animals the size of a polar bear, giraffe or rhino.”
for polar bears. So, I’ve developed a real fondness for them, and I enjoy being able to help share information and devise strategies that help polar bears at zoos across the country. A few years ago, I had the privilege of being involved in the care of twin polar bear cubs who were born at the Detroit Zoo. I feel like I used every piece of veterinary knowledge and tool in my toolbox. It was a very labor-intensive but rewarding period in my career.
o o d i or o g o oo i g o r ri r di i
Try to research and spend as much time with a veterinarian as possible and spend time with different animals to ensure you
or talent in the sciences, but it is a long you do for the passion of it, so you want to make sure you will love what you do.
PENGUIN PATROL
DZS studies penguin health in the Falkland Islands
By Sarah Culton, Communications Manager
Be a champion for change and make a charitable gift to the DZS for conservation programs. Your donation will support important research studies on the well-being of animals like the rockhopper and gentoo penguins in the Falkland Islands. Make your best gift today at dzoo.org/penguinconservation25 or contact Andrea Richards in the development office at (248) 336-5729 for more information.
For Dr. Ann Duncan, associate vice president of life sciences for the Detroit Zoological Society (DZS), the perfect day ends watching the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean as sea lions swim below and penguins waddle along the shore.
But this isn’t a vacation. It’s the reward after a long, grueling day of fieldwork in harsh, windy conditions — all in the name of conservation.
“I’m not one to lay on a chair reading a book,” Duncan says with a laugh. “I love being out there and making a difference.”
Duncan, along with a team that included a veterinary technician and two animal care specialists, recently traveled to the Falkland Islands, off the coast of Argentina, to conduct groundbreaking field research on wild rockhopper and gentoo penguins.
Their mission: to assess the impacts of infectious disease, pollution and tourism on penguins living in the wild.
This research — the most comprehensive study of animal health and well-being in DZS history — is a crucial step in advancing the conservation of penguins everywhere. The study began in 2018 and is a collaboration with Falklands Conservation (FC), an organization dedicated to monitoring and protecting the region’s wildlife. By gathering biological samples and health data from penguin colonies living on the Islands, researchers hope to develop informed, science-based conservation strategies to safeguard seabird species.
A UNIQUE PARTNERSHIP
The DZS’s partnership with FC started long
before this study took shape. Combining the DZS’s expertise in animal health and care with FC’s on-the-ground research, this partnership helps penguins and seabirds in the region.
From 2016 to 2018, the DZS and FC conducted expeditions to several remote islands. Using drones, they gathered population data and documented habitat conditions. Building on this success, the two organizations sought to expand their partnership. FC invited the DZS to develop a project to investigate what might be contributing to a decline in the number of penguins in the region.
This led to an ongoing, multi-year study and three field expeditions to the Falkland Islands, where DZS veterinary and animal care specialists joined FC researchers to collect critical health data from some of the world’s largest populations of gentoo and rockhopper penguins. It was determined that the team would travel during the penguin breeding season, as it is one of the few times penguins are routinely out of the water and able to be researched on land.
“The goal of this study is to collect data to help understand the factors that influence penguins in the Falkland Islands,” Duncan says. “Penguins and other seabirds living in polar areas are among the species most impacted by climate change, and it’s important to understand the factors that are impacting their health and viability. Studying the health of penguins helps us understand the health of the entire ecosystem.”
A SPECIAL SET OF SKILLS
A tiny airplane, a Range Rover and a good pair of hiking boots. These are just a few of the essential tools needed to make this study successful.
“Traveling to the Falklands isn’t easy. It’s a big effort that takes multiple days and flights,” says Lindsay Ireland, bird supervisor, who has twice traveled with the DZS to the Falklands as part of this study. “You have to carry a lot of stuff with you; you have to go on these long, bumpy car rides over uneven terrain that you don’t know if you will get stuck in. You have to hold on very tight and hope there are no surprises in front of you.”
(Continued on page 6)
Far left: The Falkland Islands are home to the largest colonies of breeding rockhopper and gentoo penguins in the world. Top: DZS zookeepers and veterinary staff visited the islands to study wild penguin health. Bottom left: The team humanely gathers blood, feather and saliva samples from the penguins. Bottom right: the team process the samples for further study.
(Continued from page 5)
Though all the equipment the team brings — including a large liquid nitrogen tank to store bio samples — is useful, the biggest value the DZS team brings to this project is expertise in animal health and well-being. The study requires researchers to hold the penguins to collect blood samples, feather clippings and saliva swabs. As the DZS team is experienced in holding penguins in human care for veterinary exams and routine care, they are able to work with wild penguins quickly and efficiently to ensure no harm comes to either animal or researcher.
“We know how to care for penguins in ways that are less stressful for them,” Ireland says. “Some of the tools we use, like a field scale that a penguin dangles from, may look strange, but everything we do is to minimize the impact on the penguins. After we were done, they would go right
back to their nests to feed their chicks.”
After collecting samples in the field all day, the team spends up to four hours each night organizing, processing samples, making slides and labeling to prepare the materials to return to the Detroit Zoo for further study. The team looks for the presence of health issues, toxicity, exposure to infectious diseases and any other abnormalities in the samples.
“These are long days,” Duncan says. “During our last trip, we collected and processed samples from 60 penguins. From the start of the project, we have collected samples from 233 rockhoppers and gentoos.”
Collectively, the team has decades of animal care expertise and fieldwork experience to help them, but working in the Falklands still presents some unique challenges. Not only do the zookeepers and veterinarians have to use different
equipment than they are accustomed to, they must adapt to the weather and environment of the Falklands. But to Duncan, these challenges make fieldwork all the more fun.
“When you are in the Falklands, it is always, always, always windy and often rainy,” she says. “The rain makes it difficult to write notes, and if you let go of your papers for even a second, you might see them blowing away down the beach.”
Despite the challenges, Duncan and Ireland agree they wouldn’t have it any other way.
“I’ve spent more time on this project than any other at the Zoo. It holds a special place in my heart,” Duncan says. “Throughout my career, I’ve had lots of opportunities to help penguins in zoos live longer, healthier lives, but using those skills to help penguins in the wild is extra rewarding.”
Top left: A rockhopper penguin and their chick. Bottom left: The DZS team examines a penguin foot. Right: Dr. Ann Duncan weighs a penguin with a field scale.
“It’s very rewarding as a zookeeper to participate in conservation projects because this is ultimately our goal. We want to protect animals in their natural habitats,” Ireland adds. “Even though the travel down there can prove to be difficult at times, we get this incredible experience and have met some great friends through Falklands Conservation.”
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
Now that all the samples have been collected, a waiting game begins — for the general public, at least. Though it will take time before the study results are published, Duncan and the team are hard at work processing and analyzing samples and writing up their findings.
Duncan believes it will be worth the wait. She says the study has already helped implement biosecurity measures to protect birds in the region from diseases
such as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, also known as bird flu.
“We have put a lot of time and resources into this project and are hoping we will use the information we learn to inform policies in the Falklands,” she says. “With the findings of this study, we might be able to understand the diseases that impact these bird populations in the future and how we can mitigate the risks. This could look like increased biosecurity measures or policies and regulations around petroleum and other industries. By protecting penguins, we also can protect people and the environment.”
DZS Director of Conservation Dr. David Dimitrie also believes in the program and cannot wait to see the study results.
“This study really demonstrates the value of an organization like the DZS being able to provide expertise to a valued
conservation partner,” he says. “Our vet team provides top-notch care, and our animal care team provides invaluable expertise in handling animals. This is just one way we are using our unique skills to fulfill our conservation commitment. We are excited to continue to be a conservation leader and to explore more collaboration opportunities with partners like Falklands Conservation.”
No matter the outcomes of the study or where the future takes Duncan, Dimitrie and the rest of the DZS team — even if it’s far from a sunset-lit beach — the DZS will remain committed to ensuring a healthier future for penguins in the Falkland Islands and beyond.
“Conservation is at the heart of everything we do,” Duncan says. “We are committed to protecting animals and nature — and that is worth all the work that goes into a project like this.”
You can visit rockhopper and gentoo penguins native to the Falkland Islands at the Detroit Zoo! The Zoo is home to more than 80 penguins of five different species — gentoo, southern rockhopper, macaroni, king and chinstrap. Visit them today inside the Polk Penguin Conservation Center.
Fun fact: Two young macaroni penguins (above) at the Detroit Zoo hatched in May 2023. Fitzroy and Stanley are named after locations in the Falklands to honor this critical conservation work.
Top: From left: Zookeeper Lauren Brown, Bird Supervisor Lindsay Ireland, Vet Tech Erica Campbell and Associate VP of Life Sciences Dr. Ann Duncan. Bottom: The DZS team processes samples.
EVENTS
Spring into fun with the Detroit Zoo! With exciting events for all ages, there's memories! See all our events at detroitzoo.org/events.
YOGA AT THE ZOO
Select mornings and evenings in March and April; Tickets on sale now
Go Zen and get ready to strike a pose at a yoga session surrounded by your favorite animals.
GREENFEST
9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 12-13; Free with Zoo admission; Free for members
Join us at our annual sustainability celebration to explore a sustainable marketplace, live entertainment, hands-on activities and more.
PRESENTED BY
EVENT
9 a.m. to noon April 12-13; Free to participate Are old, unwanted electronics and small home? Bring them to the Zoo’s 10 Mile Road park-
ing lot during this special event to be responsibly recycled! As a thank you, you can earn tickets to the Detroit Zoo!
9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 18-19; Free with Zoo admission; Free for members
Hop on over to the Zoo for a day of springtime fun! At this annual,
stravanza,” you can ring in the season with fun activities — including a sure to put a hop in your step.
PRESENTED BY
ZOO BREW
7 to 10 p.m. May 16
Tickets on sale now
Go wild at our spring 21+ event! This exclusive tasting event features a local selection of delicious brews to enjoy as you adventure through the Zoo’s 125 acres.
BY
9 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 28 & Sept. 10; Free for tri-county residents 62 and older Seniors living in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties, along with one guest, are invited to enjoy free admission, parking, live entertainment, special activities and so much more.
BY
6 to 9 p.m. June 12; Tickets coming soon
Get your gears ready to enjoy an epic adventure as you wheel your way through the Zoo! This event is an exclusive chance to explore the Zoo on your bicycle while catching a special glimpse of your favorite animals in a whole new light.
SUNSET AT THE ZOO
7 to 11 p.m. June 20
Tickets on sale now
Party with a purpose during the Zoo’s annual fundraising event! Savor delicious eats from restaurants, sip on summer cocktails, dance the night away and so much more — all while raising funds for a cause to support great apes at the Zoo and in the wild.
BY
8 to 11:30 a.m. Sept. 7; Registration Open Now
On your mark. Get set. Go! Run for a cause with the Detroit Zoo’s annual 5K race and 1-mile Fun Walk.
PRESENTED BY
PRESENTED
PRESENTED
PRESENTED
Greenfest
Bunnyville
Bike Safari
A DAY AT THE ZOO
Ongoing program gives underfunded classrooms an experience to remember
By Sarah Culton, Communications Manager
When Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) Director of Education Dr. Claire LannoyeHall recalls a moment in her career that has truly made a difference, the image that comes to mind is one of joy.
“I was driving down Woodward, and I see this bus full of kids pulling up to the Zoo,” Lannoye-Hall says. “These kids were pumped. You could see the excitement in the windows — they were vibrating. They were so excited to visit and spend time with my team. Even now, I’m tearing up just thinking about it.”
But this wasn’t just any trip to the Zoo. These children were about to experience a Day at the Zoo — an experience so special, it deserves capital letters.
Run through the DZS education department, the Day at the Zoo (DATZ) program provides an opportunity for
students to experience the Detroit Zoo by awarding financial assistance and travel stipends to classrooms where funds may be limited. School groups awarded funding through the DATZ program application process may choose between an in-person Zoo visit and experience with the education team, a virtual option or a combination of the two.
“This is our opportunity to reach those classrooms that wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to come here,” Lannoye-Hall says. “For many of these kids, it’s their first opportunity ever to come to the Zoo. It is such a privilege to make that connection and have them see all the amazing things we have here. It is hands-down one of the best parts of my job.”
Day at the Zoo provides students, primarily in the tri-counties, with a cost-free field trip that creates a lasting connection.
“Day at the Zoo removes the barriers of funding and transportation from a Zoo education,” adds Sandy Ling, curator of education. “It levels the playing field and ensures we are truly welcoming to all.”
Made possible by generous donors, including those who contributed to the David K. Page Fund and who donated during the Zoo’s annual fundraising gala Sunset at the Zoo, DATZ has been making a difference for more than a decade. In 2024 alone, the project served 9,150 students and teachers, giving them access to a learning experience that fosters empathy and an understanding of animals and nature.
“It’s critical to get kids out of the classroom,” Lannoye-Hall says. “The time teachers have to teach science in the classroom is extremely limited. When kids come to the Zoo to observe the animals and interact with our team, they are building critical skills that you can’t replicate on a screen, in a book or in a classroom. It really gets
kids excited about science.”
“When you see an animal like a camel in real life, it’s a full sensory experience,” Ling adds. “Those sensory experiences are crucial to building lasting memories, which will help these kids care about animals and nature in the future.”
The proof of DATZ’s success is clear to see. Lannoye-Hall and Ling have countless stories of excited students and smiling faces; they keep a stack of brightly colored thank you cards written by the students they have reached. However, perhaps the most telling thing is that many teachers apply for the program year after year.
“We get a lot of positive feedback, and a lot of this program is spread through word of mouth,” Lannoye-Hall says. “Day at the Zoo is one of the highlights of my career, and it is such a privilege to work with students and teachers. I’m so glad people see the value in it and that we get to continue to provide this experience to kids for years to come.”
Are you a teacher looking to give your students a wild education? The next round of Day at the Zoo applications opens in September. Learn more at dzoo.org.
Some of Day at the Zoo’s youngest participants wrote thank you cards to the DZS team following their special visit to the Zoo. See a few for yourself!
Day at the Zoo participants get to engage in hands-on learning at sessions designed by the DZS education team.
LEAVE A LEGACY
Wildlife Legacy Circle members making a lasting difference
The Wildlife Legacy Circle is a community of compassionate supporters who have chosen to make a meaningful difference by including the Detroit Zoological Society in their estate plans. Through their planned gifts, members of the Wildlife Legacy Circle create a lasting legacy that ignites positive change for animals and nature around the world.
We are honored to recognize the thoughtful individuals who have joined this circle of care and commitment.
Wildlife Legacy Circle Donors
Nancy Albright
Sharon Alexander
Luther and Diane Aman
Anonymous (13)
Sally Arrivee
Suzanne L. Baber
Margaret L. Barrus
Dr. Barbara S. Beresford and Ms. Lee Haymon
William S. Cohn
Mandell and Madeleine Berman Foundation
Virginia B. Bertram
Albert and Rachel Boomgaert
Audrey J. Boyes
Kay Brady & Jim Doyon
Janet M. Brandon and Joseph D. Collins Jr.
Lisa and Michael Brode
Nancy J. Byder
Gail Caldarea
Karen and Ray Caloia
Ms. Susan B. Carlin
Celia K. Carr
Patricia Ann Ceanga
Priscilla Cheever
Docia Coker
Pam and Gary Collens
Roseann Comstock
Ralph E. Condit
Katherine Coomer
Charles and Kathryn Counts
Laura Crossley
Marjorie DeVlieg
Marjorie E. Diedrich
David Dolan
Sidney J. Dowding
Clover E. Downs
Edward T. Dryer
Elizabeth Duell
Henry Duluk
Bette Dyer
Joan Earl
Ms. Marion Elder
Laura Evans Ford
June M. Everett
Charlotte Failing
Burton D. Farbman
Claudine Farrand and Daniel Moerman
Tina Fisher
Carl E. Fleischer and Mary Ann Fleischer
Ms. Lydia Foley
Pamela R. Francis
Barbara J. Frankel
Doreen Gordon Frankel
Mark and Donna Frentrup
Margaret Frischkorn
Josephine S. Gehringer
John and Claudia Gibson
Shirley Glass
Mr.& Mrs. Robert R. Gross
Martha Grovenstein
Major Gwyllt
Rita C. and John M. Haddow Foundation
Dorothy E. Haden
Dennis M. Haggerty
Kenneth E. Hart
Anne E. Hengesbach
Glenn Henry, Jr.
Jura Hill
Mary L. Hobart
Ernie and Shirley Hodas
Esther Hofley
Terry and Margaret Hoover
Carol and Andy Howell
Ms. Joyce M. Jipson
Cathy L. Johnson
Corie Lynn Johnson
Annette Johnston
Harvey L. Katchan
William Kernan
Ms. King
Ms. Marjorie Kissick
Anne Knowlton Kleene
Anna Louise Knight
Kevin C. Koch
James M. Kozlowicz
Roberta Kunin
Bonnie Ann Larson
Ms. Agnes LeClair
Sharon and Richard Ledoux
Raymond LeVeque
Lester London
Lisa and Paul Machala
Marshall S. Mahoney
Henry Maloney
Leokadia L. Marshall
Jack B. Marshall and Catherine Marks
George E. Martin
Mr. William L. Martin, Jr.
Mary Kay Mason
Mary Mattiello
Ms. Alexandria Maylou
Kathy McConlogue
Mary E. Mellor
Melissa Merkau
Vincent and Marilou Messina
Madeline Mikolic
Frances C. Moceri
Miriam Mondry
Christine Morrison
Elizabeth Mosuk
Jill Murphy
Ms. Marilyn Nachman
Claudia J. Nickel
Cara and David Nims
Clarice Odgers Percox
Edith Ogg
William Oram
Robert Oren and Lynn Sarosik
Diane Paglia
Evangeline Patsalis
Dorothy Petit
Nancy Philippart and Thomas McGrail
John Pickles
Frank Pietraszewski
Thad and Alicia Podmokly
Albina Pogorzelski
The Estate of Thomas H. Porter
Doris B. Pratt
Mary Carol Prokop
Joanne A. Rackham and Katherine M. Rackham
Dorothy J. Reidel
Deborah J. Remer
Kelly A. Holmes
Helen G. Reyhl Trust
Richard R. Reyhl
Dr. John and Shirley
Richardson
Jack and Margaret Ricketts
Katherine D. Rines
Susan Kingsepp-Ring and Robert Ring
David W. Janeway and
Sylvia A. Ritchie
Richard and Joanie Rizzio
Joan Robb
Susan and David Rugenstein
Thomas R. Saccaro
Mrs. Shirley W. Sarver
Richard and Lynn Scarlett
Irene and Charles Scheffler
Eric and Eva Schoettle
Gloria and Donald Schultz
Gary Charles and Claire L. Schwartz
Lisa A. Shamie
Mary A. Smith
Anthony Smolak
Sandra M. Souter
Barbara Spreitzer-Berent H. Georgie St. Amour
Shirley Steele
Marlene Stoll
Mary Cay Sullivan
Casimer Frank Surletta
Virginia Sutherland
Flora Temple
Allen and Terri (Groff)
Thomalla
Marion Catherine Thomas
Mary T. Trambush
Judith Trapp
Marie. A. Tront
Edward J. Havlena and
Betty L. Havlena
Janice and Joel Ungar
Elizabeth Van Leeuwen
Donna Voytush
Ms. Norma J. Wagner
Elaine Waldecker
Mr. Gordon H. Ward
Jackie and Mark Ward
Anne S. Waterman
Margaret Watkins
Jared Welsh, Jr.
Sarah Jane L. Wiant
Barbara Widdis
Dorothy M. Williams
The Wood Family
Cathy Young
For more information on how to join the Wildlife Legacy Circle or to inform us that the Detroit Zoological Society is in your estate plans, contact Nora Rhein at nrhein@dzs.org or (248) 336-5725.
Lemurs don’t make good pets! The Wildlife Trafficking Alliance and the Detroit Zoo are helping these primates, who are popular in the pet trade, by promoting the Not a Pet campaign. Learn more and take the pledge at notapet.net.
LEAPING INTO ACTION
Detroit Zoo joins Wildlife Trafficking Alliance, raises awareness about animals impacted by wildlife trafficking
By Karen Dybis, Contributing Writer
The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) is celebrating its recent partnership with the Wildlife Trafficking Alliance (WTA), which Zoo experts say will protect animals in Michigan and across the globe that are targets for illegal buying and selling.
The partnership also will help educate guests on how the illegal wildlife trade industry affects zoos and sanctuaries worldwide, including the Detroit Zoo, says Dr. David Dimitrie, director of conservation for the DZS.
While there are success stories of rescued wildlife such as the beloved ring-tailed lemurs who call the Zoo home, Warren, Remy, Molly and Finnigan, there are many more stories of animals whose health is compromised or lives are cut short because of illegal trafficking, Dimitrie explains.
“We’re really in the midst of a wildlife trafficking crisis, and it’s labeled a crisis for a reason,” Dimitrie says. “It’s fueled by the high demand for wildlife and wildlife products, which is driving some species to extinction.”
PARTNERSHIPS BOLSTER ADVOCACY
The WTA is a coalition of more than 90 nonprofits, companies and Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited zoos like Detroit working together to reduce and hopefully eliminate the trade of wildlife and wildlife products. It does this by reducing demand, advancing laws and policies to reduce illegal wildlife trade and providing protocols for groups like the Detroit Zoo that care for wildlife confiscated from illegal trade.
Dimitrie says the Detroit Zoo is fulfilling part of its purpose through this partnership — to ignite positive change for animals and
nature. After joining the WTA in 2024, the Zoo now is ramping up the partnership by sharing stories of how it specifically is affected by issues created by the wildlife trafficking crisis, such as rehoming exotic pets.
For example, Remy came to the Detroit Zoo in 2015 from California, where the group that rescued him believed he was kept as a domestic pet. However, Remy failed to receive proper care, so Detroit Zoo experts had to work diligently then and continue to work daily to improve his diet, health and other key aspects that create a happy life, such as socializing him with other ringtailed lemurs.
“Remy and other rescued animals like him can serve as ambassadors to our guests and members,” Dimitrie says. “He will help us make those connections between responsible pet ownership and illegal wildlife trafficking. Reducing that upfront demand for an exotic pet is part of WTA’s Not a Pet campaign, which seeks to raise awareness about the illegal trade of wild animals as pets.”
Another WTA campaign — I Travel for Wildlife — is a collaboration that seeks to educate the public about wildlife trafficking and reduce the demand for illegally traded wildlife and wildlife products. Wildlife products are defined as items such as elephant tusks, rhinoceros’ horns or pangolin scales, which can be used for everything from food to jewelry to medicine.
Wildlife trafficking is a multi-billion-dollar international issue. According to a recent United Nations report cited by AZA, as many as 1 million plant and animal species are now at risk of extinction due to human activities, including poaching. As the fourth-most profitable transnational crime, wildlife trafficking is considered a threat to human health and welfare, and the economy.
(Continued on page 16)
"We're
really in the midst of a wildlife trafficking crisis, and it's labeled a crisis for a reason. It's fueled by the high demand for wildlife and wildlife products, which is driving some species to extinction."
— Dr. David Dimitrie, director of conservation
(Continued from page 15)
As an advocate for the Zoo joining WTA, Dimitrie says he hopes this partnership will have an immediate and long-term effect. He points to animals such as the eastern box turtle, Michigan’s only terrestrial turtle that is considered threatened in Michigan because it is often illegally poached and traded.
“If you can reduce that demand, you can play a role in ending illegal trafficking in our own backyard,” Dimitrie says. “We are still in the early stages of the WTA partnership, but we’re excited about it. There’s more to come.”
EXPERTISE GUIDES CARE
Detroit Zoo curators also say they support the WTA and the Zoo’s partnership because of what they see and experience as they care for the animals the Zoo supports.
Every animal at the Detroit Zoo requires a special level of expertise in their daily needs, and individuals who purchase exotic pets may not have the same level of understanding about what that animal needs at different stages of their life, says Brian Manfre, a curator of mammals for ungulates and small carnivores.
In the case of a rehomed squirrel monkey the Zoo cared for, Manfre says the animal lived apart from others like him and had imprinted only on people. That means he lacked the necessary social skills to integrate with other animals.
“There are a great deal of resources required when we take in an exotic pet or an animal rescued from a large breeding center. We give them the benefit of around-the-clock access to veterinary care and access to our animal-welfare scientists, as well as our dedicated staff who have devoted themselves to the care of these animals,” Manfre says.
A FOCUS ON REHABILITATION
Depictions of exotic wildlife at events, performing on television or on social media platforms living in an individual’s home may seem humorous, but these
portrayals fail to show the true reality of that animal’s life, says Tami Brightrall, a curator of mammals for primates and large carnivores.
“We are sometimes called in to help by airports, local police or community members who see exotic pets who need help. And we can help in a lot of ways, like rescuing these animals and helping them with placements in an appropriate zoo or sanctuary,” Brightrall says.
That help often starts with a detailed evaluation of that animal — did they receive the diet, health care and socialization they need to thrive? Brightrall says many exotic pets are treated poorly and suffer because of it.
“I’ve seen primates that eat toaster pastries instead of greens or broccoli. They weren’t having regular veterinarian check-
ups, so their teeth may be in bad condition,” Brightrall says. "Smaller primates need a lot of special vitamins and minerals in their diets. If their needs are not met, they can develop skin, coat and metabolic issues."
Getting these exotic pets back to baseline can take weeks, months or years, Brightrall says. That’s hard on the Zoo’s resources, which must be evenly shared among all its residents, but it is hardest on the animals most of all.
One goal of the Detroit Zoo’s WTA membership is to educate people about why exotic animals are not suitable as domestic pets. Brightrall recommends sticking to the classics, such as dogs, cats, rats and guinea pigs. Both the animal and your family will be happier.
“We want people to understand the amount of time, energy, research and care we put into caring for every sea otter and polar bear. It’s incredible. And we do it all over at the Zoo. It takes a lot of people and expertise to do that,” Brightrall says.
“Visiting your favorite wildlife at the Zoo — that’s what we’re great for. You can get close to that animal, you can talk to a docent, and you can learn everything about how we care for them,” Brightrall says. “You can have a great day getting close to red pandas, and learn a great deal about why having one for a pet is not appropriate.”
“We are sometimes called in to help by airports, local police or community members who see exotic pets who need help.”
— Tami Brightrall, curator of mammals for primates and large carnivores
Southern white rhinos Tamba and Jasiri call the Zoo home. Members of their species are trafficked in the wild for their horns.
Eastern box turtles are often illegally poached and traded.
5 WAYS TO GO GREEN THIS SPRING
Make a difference with these easy sustainability tips: As the grasses and plants turn green, so do we! At the Detroit Zoological Society, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do — and you can be part of the movement, too. This spring, take simple yet impactful steps toward a greener lifestyle that benefits the planet, people and animals who call it home. Here are five easy ways to embrace sustainability and ignite positive change.
The Detroit Zoo supports the planting of native trees — just one more way to go green!
DITCH THE PLASTIC
Replace disposable plastics with durable, reusable alternatives like water bottles, grocery bags and food containers to reduce waste and protect the planet.
REDUCE ENERGY USE
Open windows for natural light and fresh air, switch to LED bulbs and unplug devices when not in use.
CHOOSE ECOFRIENDLY PRODUCTS
Swap harsh chemicals for natural cleaning products to keep your home fresh while protecting the natural world.
CLEAN UP YOUR COMMUNITY
Volunteer to clean up litter along roadways, parks and beaches to keep harmful plastics out of our environment.
RECYCLE AT THE ZOO
Free your home of the clutter of old, unwanted cellphones and small electronic devices by responsibly recycling them through the Gorillas on the Line program at the Detroit Zoo! When you donate, you are directly helping to protect wild gorillas and their habitats.
Top: DZS staff and Climate Alliance ambassadors spent several days living and traveling on the tundra, thanks to Frontiers North Adventures and their Tundra Buggy (photo credit: Shervin Hess). Bottom: A polar bear spotted from the Tundra Buggy along the shores of Hudson Bay.
AN ARCTIC ADVENTURE
DZS team learns about polar bear conservation in Churchill, Manitoba
By Dr. David Dimitrie, Conservation Director and Dr. Amanda Hanlin, Chief of Staff
"It should be coming up now, really soon," our driver, Bob, states in his usual quiet, calm manner. The Tundra Buggy hits another bump — one of too many to count that we have traversed over since beginning our journey this afternoon. And then, there amongst the subtle browns, greys and greens of the tundra while a light snow begins to fall, we catch our first glimpse of a polar bear rambling along the shores of the Hudson Bay.
Churchill, Manitoba sits at nearly 59 degrees northing latitude within the ecosystems of boreal forest and arctic tundra. The town and its people identify best with the iconic polar bear that also calls Churchill home. Polar bears in this population spend the summer and early fall in and around Churchill, passing time along the shores and nearby interior terrestrial habitats surrounding the Hudson Bay. In late fall and into the winter, seasonal sea ice forms on the Hudson Bay. Much like soil is vital to a forest, sea ice is important to the Arctic ecosystem, and polar bears rely on sea ice to hunt their favorite prey — seals — as well as to travel and den. However, as a result of climate change, polar bears are experiencing less available sea ice and more time spent on solid ground, which means they must subsist for longer and swim further without the protein rich diet they need. Increasingly in recent years, the bears face growing interactions with the community members who also call Churchill home. In fact, throughout their range, polar bears face a list of threats, including loss of sea ice resulting from climate change, increased commercial activities such as oil and gas drilling and exploration, pollution, disease and increasing interactions with people and communities.
A FUTURE FOR POLAR BEARS
Members of the Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) team traveled to Churchill in October 2024 to join our partners at Polar Bears International (PBI) as a member of
Climate Alliance ambassadors from zoos and aquariums from around the world gathered in Manitoba to spend a week learning about polar bears and their conservation.
the Arctic Ambassador Center Network.
As an Arctic Ambassador Center member, we joined for the 2024 Climate Alliance Program, along with representatives from other Arctic Ambassador Center zoos and aquariums joining us from as far away as Portland, Oregon and the United Kingdom. Throughout the week, we spent time building new partnerships and collaborating on advocacy plans to bring home to our respective institutions. These advocacy plans will serve as a framework for how we can communicate with our guests as well as local leaders to broaden knowledge and inspire action around climate change and polar bear conservation.
The DZS has sent staff to participate in the Climate Alliance Program in previous years as well, including team members from our animal care and education departments. Together, our DZS Arctic Ambassadors are working together to strengthen our role as a champion for polar bear conservation and climate change education.
MORE THAN JUST POLAR BEARS AND THE ARCTIC
While Hudson Bay sits 1,200 miles north of the Detroit Zoo, the challenges confronting polar bears in the Arctic are
relevant for us at home in the Great Lakes. Climate change poses a threat to our local wildlife and habitats, while also presenting unique challenges to the entire Great Lakes ecosystem. Thanks to our commitment to polar bear conservation as well as conservation in our own backyard in Michigan and throughout the Great Lakes, we are working to protect wild animals and their habitats at home and abroad. And that is what our role in the Arctic Ambassador Network is all about – working with our conservation partners in the field as well as other zoos and aquariums, local citizens, and public leaders to ignite positive change for wildlife both here at home and around the globe.
Future generations of polar bears and people depend on the decisions and plans we make today. On our last night in Churchill, we gathered under the northern lights. As polar bears along the shores of Hudson Bay did the same while waiting for sea ice to return, we paused to reflect on a future where polar bears still call this place home. Thanks to the Arctic Ambassador Center Network, our partners at PBI and our commitment at the DZS to address important conservation challenges, we are hopeful they will.
To learn more about Polar Bears International and their work protecting wild polar bears and their habitats, visit polarbearsinternational.org. Learn more about our travel partner, Frontiers North Adventures, which provided lodging and Tundra Buggy accommodations, at frontiersnorth.com.
INTO FUN!
world of penguins! These marine birds are known for their fancy feathers and wonderful waddles. Learn more about them and connect further with these fun, kid-friendly activities.
Some penguins live in cold climates, but others live in warm places like South Africa!
Penguins' black and white coloring is also camouflage to protect them from predators.
A group of penguins is called a ra in water and a waddle on land.
PENGUIN ICE PAINTING
Ice cube tray Tempera or
Popsicle sticks Paper
Activity is for one or more people
Pour paint into the ice cube tray, one color per cube.
Put a popsicle stick in each cube.
Place in the freezer overnight.
Remove the cubes from the tray.
Hold the popsicle stick and use the frozen cube of paint to draw on the paper.
Note: Try mixing colors like red, yellow, and blue (the primary colors) to make other colors!
DO YOU KNOW?
1. How many species of penguins live at the Detroit Zoo?
A. Six
B. Three
C. Four
D. Five . o i d
i g g i d
A. Up to 400 fish
B. Up to 600 fish
C. Up to 900 fish
D. Up to 2,000 fish
3. What is one way macaroni g i ir odi o communicate?
A. Shuffling their feet
B. Clapping their flippers
C. Bowing
D. Spinning
4. How fast can gentoo penguins swim?
A. Up to 18 miles per hour
B. Up to 22 miles per hour
C. Up to 29 miles per hour
D. Up to 34 miles per hour
FROGS, TOADS AND CONSERVATION
Springtime on Belle Isle offers unique wildlife, community involvement
By Amy Greene, Nature Center Director
As springtime blossoms, inviting us to notice and celebrate the seasonal changes, the Belle Isle Nature Center is the perfect place to connect with local nature.
One of the best ways to enjoy the season and help care for the natural world is to observe frogs and toads. These amphibians thrive during the spring as they emerge from hibernation, their croaks filling the air and signaling the season's true arrival. You might hear them near ponds, serenading the spring evenings in a chorus of mating calls.
If you are interested in getting involved, the FrogWatch USA program provides a unique conservation opportunity. This participatory science initiative encourages people worldwide to track frog and toad populations in their local areas — including right here on Belle Isle in the heart of Detroit. By simply listening to frog and toad calls and noting their locations, you can contribute valuable data to the protection of these important species. It’s a great way to help conserve wildlife while learning more about the frogs and toads who live right here in the community.
The program offers field training to equip volunteers with the knowledge and tools needed to participate. It is completely free to join, and no science degree is required — just a free certification course you can earn with the Detroit Zoological Society.
To get an even closer look at some local frogs and toads, hop on into the Belle Isle Nature Center, where you can get a ground-level view of American toads and gray treefrogs in their expansive habitat. This space is designed to represent a local amphibian-friendly backyard. You can also check out the bullfrog habitat and try to find this very large resident hiding out by the soggy logs.
What are you waiting for? Get outside and become a hero for frogs and toads today!
Become a hero for frogs and toads with FrogWatch USA! Find out how you can join the mission at detroitzoo.org/ events/frogwatch.
CONSERVATION CONNECTION
The Detroit Zoological Society is proud to support the Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education (GRACE) Center in its mission to protect wild gorillas in their native African habitats. Currently, GRACE is working to establish the Usala Conservation Corridor — a 300,000-acre lifeline connecting Tayna Nature Reserve and Maiko National Park. This vital corridor will help safeguard critically endangered Grauer’s gorillas, ensuring their survival for generations to come.
While there is still much work ahead, significant progress has been made in the past year. The DZS remains committed to supporting our conservation partners in making this ambitious vision a reality — one that will ignite positive change for animals and nature.
Photo Credit: GRACE CENTER
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