be
the
first
to
experience
THE AFRICAN FOREST AT THE HOUSTON ZOO
TABLE OF CONTENTS 4. The Houston Zoo: 88 Years of History 7. The African Continent 8. The Adventure Begins 10. Gorilla Tommy 11. Koolookamba
ExxonMobil is proud to support this publication commemorating the opening of The African Forest at the Houston Zoo
12. The Field Guide and Map 14. The Forest Village 16. Tommy’s Treehouse 17. Chimpanzees 21. Rhinoceros 24. Giraffes 28. Cheetahs 29. Conservation: Locally and Globally 30. The Art of Building Africa
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CHIMPS
21
24
RHINOS
GIRAFFES
Wildlife Production Team
Houston Zoo, Inc. Board of Directors
Editor: Rochelle Joseph
Eduardo Aguirre
Anne Duncan
Glenn L. Lowenstein
Tony Sanchez III
E. William Barnett
Barbara Goldfield
Neal Manne
Cindi Scruggs
Creative Director: Melanie Campbell-Tello
Nandita Berry
Written by: Rick Barongi, David Brady, Deborah
Jack S. Blanton, Sr.
Cannon, Hollie Colahan, Amy Harvey, Brian Hill, Rochelle Joseph, Sharon Joseph, Laurie McGivern, Joseph Moore, Peter Riger, Kelly Russo, Chance Sanford.
Joe Cleary
Photography by: Stephanie Adams, Rick Barongi,
Linnet Deily
Dan Breton, Ray Mendez, Paul Swen
(Secretary)
Martyn Goossen Robert Graham (Chairman)
Stacy Methvin Walter Mischer Ali Moshiri
Michael Cordúa
Dr. Bernard Harris, Jr.
Bobbie Nau
Rufus Cormier, Jr.
Stephen Kaufman
Stephen D. Newton
Jonathan Day
Donald R. Kendall, Jr.
Charles Onstead
(Vice Chairman)
Barbara Samuels
Cathryn Selman (Vice Chairman)
Herman L. Stude Shawn Taylor Lori Vetters George R. Willy E. W. “Bill” Wright III
Congratulations on the opening of The African Forest! I am very proud of what has been accomplished at the Houston Zoo since the establishment of the public-private partnership that created Houston Zoo, Inc. in July 2002. The significant capital improvements leading up to the opening of The African Forest have greatly enhanced the Zoo’s guest experience. As a child, one of my favorite family excursions involved a trip to Hermann Park and the Houston Zoo. As a student at Rice University, the Zoo’s lush landscape provided a welcome environment for a break from my studies. I always enjoy taking my family and out of town guests to the Zoo and showing them a treasured community asset. I am particularly excited about the magnitude that The African Forest will add to the guest experience at the Zoo. I am especially looking forward to being able to feed those gorgeous giraffes each time I visit, as well as watching the chimps and seeing the return of rhinos to the Zoo. Again, congratulations on this substantial addition to our Zoo.
Welcome to The African Forest After more than six years of planning, The African Forest opens in December 2010. Zoo members will be rewarded with a sneak peek the entire week before the public unveiling on December 10. The original Zoo master plan, completed in 1999, called for nine separate biomes with several fully enclosed, cold-climate habitats. This was re-evaluated during the privatization of the Zoo and deemed impractical, as it made more sense to take full advantage of our year-round outdoor weather, and focus on a tropical immersion habitat that emulated the remote and fascinating regions of Central and West Africa.
Sincerely,
“ I am p a r t ic u la r l y e x c i t e d abo u t t h e m a g n i t u d e t h a t T he A f r ic a n F o r e s t w i l l a d d t o th e g u e s t e xp e r i e n c e a t t he Z o o .” Annise D. Parker Mayor
The newly formed Houston Zoo, Inc.
In 2002, the Zoo contracted the services
in the Zoo. It is a totally immersive expe-
Another exciting feature will be the inter-
Board embarked on the largest capital
of PJA Architects, a well-respected Se-
rience that disguises all the operational
nal HD camera system that will record and
Annise D. Parker
campaign in the history of the Zoo to fund
attle firm, to design The African For-
areas and exhibit barriers with natural-
broadcast animal activities and keeper talks
Mayor
the project. We were extremely fortunate
est. PJA had led the creative efforts for
looking rock work, landscaping, and invis-
to hospitals, schools and community groups
that Jonathan Day took the reins when
Disney’s Animal Kingdom, as well as
ible containment (glass and moats). Some
on a daily basis.
our first campaign Chair, Bob Onstead,
many other African-themed zoo exhib-
of the creative features include 20-foot-
suddenly passed away. Jonathan was
its worldwide. We hired Hines as our
high, concrete-earth bank walls with huge
This commemorative edition of our maga-
followed by Anne Duncan as campaign
Project Manager and Gilbane Construc-
tree planters on top, a 50-foot lava tunnel, a
zine will give you a more detailed look at
Chair. Bob Graham, Chairman of our
tion Company as our General Contrac-
mysterious cave, and replicas of Baka pyg-
many of the behind-the-scenes stories that
Board of Directors, has been particularly
tor. These top-notch companies joined
my tribe huts, to name a few.
are part of The African Forest.
important, stepping in to provide wide
with our experienced Zoo staff to form
ranging support. Without him, we would
a “dream team” that would ensure the
Of course the main attraction of The African
We hope you enjoy your safari!
not be opening up The African Forest this
project came in on time, on budget, and
Forest will be the new animals – ten chim-
December. Thanks to all their efforts, the
at the highest quality.
panzees, three white rhinos, greater kudu
Zoo raised over $42 million in private
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antelope, and ostrich – while our giraffes
funds and broke ground on construction
The design of the African Forest is
and cheetahs will also take up residence in
of the 6.5 acre Phase One project in 2009.
uniquely different from anything else
new, more spacious homes.
AFRICAN FOREST 2010
Deborah Cannon President & CEO
Rick Barongi Director
www.houstonzoo.org
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The Houston Zoo’s Rich History
88 years
New Leadership, New Directions
From its humble begin-
Upon accepting the job in 2000, Rick’s one condition was
The actual African forest is not one place; it is a dozen
nings in 1922 as a small,
permission to create a task force to research the eventual
countries, a hundred cultures, a thousand small worlds.
fenced-in area in Hermann
privatization of the Zoo. Two years later, in July 2002, the
It is misunderstood, exciting, and mysterious -- virtually
Park, featuring just a few
Houston Zoo became a private, non-profit organization
unparalleled in terms of the richness and diversity of its
native Texas species and
with a 50-year lease and operating agreement from the
habitats, its flora and fauna, and its distinctive culture. It
a
bison
City of Houston, thanks to the guidance and hard work of
is also plagued with challenging economic issues, which
named Earl, the Houston
the team led by Bill Barnett, Jonathan Day, and McKin-
lead to excess logging, mining, and commercial hunting
Zoo has evolved and grown
sey & Company.
in the form of poaching and the illegal bushmeat trade.
single
donated
All of these activities are contributing to today’s rampant
along with the city. This new public/private partnership allowed the Zoo to
deforestation and loss of wildlife in this ecologically frag-
The Zoo’s first 80 years under the City of Houston’s
undertake the most ambitious scope of improvements in
ile area.
management reflected the boom and bust cycles of
its history. In the first eight years of privatization, the
Houston’s energy-based economy. During the prolific
Zoo added $34 million in capital improvements. New hab-
For years, the Houston Zoo has directed conservation ac-
years from the 1950s through the 1970’s, and again in
itats included Komodo dragons, okapi, African wild dogs,
tivities and research in countries across the globe, recent-
the 1990s, the Zoo grew to its current size of 55 acres,
giant eland and jaguars. In addition, improved habitats
ly placing a special emphasis on the equatorial regions of
adding many new exhibits, including the Reptile
for spectacled bears, sea lions, Malayan tigers and Afri-
Africa. It is our hope that through their experience of the
House, the Tropical Bird House, the Small Mammal
can lions were also completed. More ambitious new con-
animals and the culture of this distant place, our guest
Building, the Kipp Aquarium, and Wortham World
struction included building the McNair Asian Elephant
‘explorers’ and the community will indeed be inspired, as
of Primates. The Zoo also added new infrastructure,
Habitat and the Carruth Natural Encounters Building,
well as entertained.
including the Brown Education Center and the Den-
as well as adding the Wildlife Carousel, the Moran water
ton Cooley Animal Hospital. John Werler, Zoo Direc-
playground in the McGovern Children’s Zoo, and compre-
And So It Begins…
tor from 1963 to 1992, served during much of this
hensive landscaping, lighting, and interpretive signage
The African Forest at the Houston Zoo is a one-of-a-kind
growth; as a result his name was a household word.
improvements across Zoo grounds.
journey, where you will encounter a diversity of wildlife in an immersive environment and fascinating characters
In 1989, the Zoo’s tremendous growth was recognized
Expectations for modern zoos have expanded far beyond
set in a context of discovery. As you begin your adven-
with official accreditation by the Association of Zoos
what anyone might have envisioned even a few years ago.
ture, your first steps will echo those first steps taken to-
and Aquariums. As the governing body of zoos and
A great zoo must excel at all aspects of habitat design, an-
ward this transformational exhibit generations ago by
For over 88 years, the Houston Zoo has been
aquariums in North America, the AZA’s accredita-
imal care, conservation, and education. While the Hous-
the founders of the Houston Zoo – people of passion and
one of Houston’s most popular cultural attrac-
tion is an important distinction, giving validation to
ton Zoo had grown exponentially since privatization, to
vision who helped lead the Zoo to this momentous goal.
tions. More than 1.7 million guests visit the Zoo
the quality of the facilities and animal care provided
reach our full potential we set about planning the largest
each year. This attendance is a great reflec-
at the Houston Zoo.
exhibit in the Houston Zoo’s history: The African Forest.
most diverse visitorship of any cultural venue
The last ten years of the century brought the most
From Vision to Reality
in the city. A sanctuary of nature in the heart
aggressive growth yet, with, among other facilities,
How do you begin to transform 13 acres of prime Hous-
of an ever-growing urban environment, the Zoo
the opening of the McGovern Children’s Zoo, a proj-
ton real estate into a sensation of life, a brief glimpse
offers all Houstonians a unique educational op-
ect covering three acres. It became clear that if the
into a world few people will ever see? The process must
portunity to connect with the natural world, and
Zoo was to rise to new heights, a new governance
start with a vision, then continue with a talented group
model would be required. That is when Rick Barongi,
of people who believe that this can substantially impact
the Zoo’s fifth and current Director, took the reins.
people’s lives.
tion of the city itself, as the Zoo welcomes the
gain understanding of the complex relationships between animals, plants, and people. 4|
Generations have posed with our iconic lion water fountain.
AFRICAN FOREST 2010
www.houstonzoo.org
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“Af r ica is t he cr adle of mankind . A land r ic h in lif e and lo v e , ye t t o r n apar t by m ans s e lf is h w ays .” T h a b o Mo ko ko n ya n e, G a b o r o n e, B o t swa n a
The Robert R. and Kay M. Onstead Foundation Chimpanzee Observation Site Robert “Bob” Onstead served on the Task Force that was responsible for privatizing the Houston Zoo. He believed so strongly in its mission and the role the Zoo plays in the quality of life of all Houstonians, that he also agreed to serve on the Zoo’s Board of Directors subsequent to its privatization. Bob then stepped up even further to Chair the Capital Campaign, which was created to raise the funds to build The African Forest. Bob believed that the Kathy McGovern with Kiva
The Dr. John P. and Katherine McGovern Foundation Giraffe Exhibit
Zoo is an important resource for the city and for families, providing both a fun and safe environment for them to visit together, and a way for children who don’t normally have access to the outdoors to enjoy. Unfortunately, Bob died suddenly in the summer of 2004 and was not able to see his vision become reality. However, his family made
AFRICA
Dr. John P. McGovern was widely celebrated as a
the first major gift to The African Forest Campaign in his
physician, educator, author, medical historian, phi-
honor, assuring that it got off to a great start. His wife,
Houston’s “founding fathers” are still giving back
Lush and verdant, the forest of Western equatorial Africa owes its incredible
lanthropist and humanitarian until his passing in
Kay, and his family have continued to be strong support-
to the city. By providing over 40% of the funding
growth to the hot, humid temperature. Even in its cities, you are surrounded by
2007. He and his wife, Katherine (Kathy), were long-
ers. Charles Onstead, one of Bob and Kay’s sons, now
for The African Forest, the foundations created by
abundant vegetation. As soon as you get into the bush, life is as it was 200 years
time, avid supporters of the Houston Zoo, and she
adds his expertise and represents his family on the Zoo’s
those who made Houston what it is today – The
ago. Red dirt roads cut through the dense green growth; some go as far as the
Board of Directors today.
Brown Foundation, Houston Endowment Inc., The
eye can see, disappearing on the horizon.
continues to be a generous donor and frequent visitor. Kathy and Dr. McGovern would visit the Zoo regu-
Wortham Foundation, Fondren Foundation, and The
larly, often simply to watch the children enjoy their
Cullen Foundation – truly made this project possi-
The forest is far more silent than it used to be. Though there is a healthy bird
experience here. Kathy also has a particular fondness
ble. We are incredibly grateful to them not only for
and invertebrate population, the large animals are shy, having been mercilessly
for giraffes; she and Dr. McGovern once sat for hours
their generous philanthropic support, but also for
hunted by poachers and greatly reduced in number. Those that are left have
watching one of our giraffes give birth. Later, after Dr.
having confidence in us and in this vision – the larg-
retreated deep within the forest and move about cautiously.
McGovern’s passing, we named another giraffe calf
est undertaking in the Zoo’s history – to become lead
“Jack” in his honor. For this reason, it is especially fit-
campaign donors when The African Forest was still
A web of river systems, in places carving deep channels in the face of rock es-
ting that the giraffe exhibit will be named after these
just a distant dream. In so doing, they inspired many
carpments, are lined by local villages where the people of Africa are at work, rest
two cherished Zoo supporters, whose genuine love for
others in the community to join them in helping to
and play. Their markets are filled with sound and color.
the Zoo even today inspires Kathy to continue their
make The African Forest a reality, and gave a gift not
family foundation’s legacy by helping to make the Zoo
just to the Zoo, but to the entire city. We take great
The Houston Zoo has created a window into this remote and very special place,
the best it can be for all the citizens of Houston.
pride in this accomplishment, and we can only hope
so that you can experience a realistic glimpse of a world like no other. Turn the
our founding fathers would feel proud as well.
page and enter The African Forest.
Kay Onstead with Dr. Jane Goodall
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The Legacy of Houston’s Founding Fathers
AFRICAN FOREST 2010
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“Af r ica is not a place. It ’s many, many place s and m any dif f e r e nt c ult ur e s t hat ar e c o m bine d in a unique w e alt h o f adv e nt ur e .”
Pa u l S wen , Ph o t o g r ap h er , H o u st o n
The Adventure Begins You hold in your hands the definitive guidebook to The African Forest and an introduction to some of the fascinating characters and animals that you will meet along the way. Your journey will transport you to the heart of the Western equatorial African rainforest in search of the mysterious Koolookamba. Is it a subspecies of chimpanzee, perhaps a gorilla-chimp hybrid – or nothing more than a figment of the ever-fertile human imagination? This real-life legend reminds us that biologists have yet to discover and classify many of earth’s living species. While there is no signage pointing you in the right direction, you will see indications and likely even glimpses of the Koolookamba throughout The African Forest. There are multiple images hidden along the trail… so in essence, a Koolookamba waits around many corners. Your African Forest expedition will introduce you to Gorilla Tommy, an adventurer and opportunist who undergoes a surprising transformation – from exploiter of the natural world, bent on finding proof of the mythical Koolookamba, to protector of not only the legend of the creature, but of the wonderful diversity of wildlife, the land and its people. Tommy may not always be available on your visit to The African Forest but you will find many examples of his work and care. His Treehouse is filled with information on the Koolookamba and possible sightings by the local people. He is constantly working in his search to find the elusive ape.
Just past our African wild dog exhibit, your adventure
chimps are enticed to return frequently to search for
with the world’s tallest mammal and feed them by
starts with your first steps into The African Forest, as
food in a termite mound or from the limbs of fallen
hand.As you continue on to the new cheetah exhibit,
the surrounding urban landscape gives way to rug-
trees. The building is designed to allow you and the
your walking expedition through The African Forest
ged rock walls topped with a towering canopy of trees.
chimps to interact through expansive glass walls.
will be complete, but it is our hope that your journey of discovery will have only just begun. Like the ex-
Surprises await. Footprints, artifacts, unique sounds, cryptic writings, video images, and other clues entice
The building’s inside walls contain posters and
plorer Gorilla Tommy, we hope that your stay in The
the curious to explore an environment teeming with
graphics describing the plight of chimpanzees in Af-
African Forest creates such a sense of caring and pas-
fascinating stories, characters and, of course, animals.
rica. At various times of day, a local guide will talk
sion for the land, the animals and the people of Afri-
about animal training, behavior and care.
ca, that you will become an advocate on their behalf.
The African Forest opens with the Herzstein Trading
Leaving the chimpanzee study site, you’ll round the
There are many ways for you to continue this journey
Post, where you can stock up on food provisions for
bend to view the chimps in the open air. Following
throughout your life. Conservation programs exist
your journey. Small huts surround a central fire pit
the route through a lava tunnel, you will come upon
for many animals of Africa, and certainly traveling
that will be the site of storytelling and listening for
an unobstructed vista presenting a mixed species
and experiencing Africa first-hand is the ultimate
the sounds of local wildlife. Here, guides will present
habitat for white rhinos and greater kudu.
dream. Stay connected to The African Forest and the
Following a path through a rock portal, the world of
conservation programs supported by the Houston
entertaining, educational programs about The African Forest wildlife and invite guests to participate in
Continuing along the trail brings you to a wide plaza
Zoo by visiting our web site at www.houstonzoo.org/
local conservation efforts.
featuring the Shani Market gift shop, the Twiga Ter-
africanforest.
race restaurant and an all-encompasing view of our
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From the Trading Post, you will wind through a wood-
friendly family of Masai giraffe. One section of their
Of course we hope to see you back in The African For-
ed canopy to a large building overlooking a troupe of
habitat provides you with an unique opportunity:
est many times, to experience yet another magnifi-
chimpanzees. This is an observation study site where
Several times each day guests can come face-to-face
cant African adventure!
AFRICAN FOREST 2010
www.houstonzoo.org
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9
The Great Apes of Africa
GORILLA TOMMY
The chimpanzee, gorilla, and bonobo range
KOOLOOKAMBA
across a region of 21 countries in Central and West Africa. Today habitat loss and the
From James Bruce and Mungo Park to David Livingstone
spiritual connection with their environment and the an-
From mythical unicorns and dragons to the more mod-
The controversy lingers as Du Chaillu’s description
commercial bushmeat trade have both se-
and Sir Henry Mortan Stanley, the history of Africa is
imals. Although he remains a newcomer to the forest, he
ern day Yeti and Bigfoot, humans have a long history of
differs from subsequent reports. The skeleton of du
verely fragmented the ranges and reduced
crisscrossed with the footprints of European adventur-
becomes a worthy student of its ways.
fascination with animal legends and lore.
Chaillu’s Koolookamba can still be seen in the British
the populations of all of Africa’s great apes.
Museum of Natural History, but its features resemble
Humankind’s closest relative, the chimpan-
or search for the source of the Nile, some who followed
Tommy found himself captivated by stories of the Koo-
In 1860, the French-American explorer Paul du Chaillu
those of a mountain gorilla (rather than a lowland go-
zee, has declined by nearly 70% in less than
came with decidedly more selfish motives: seeking fame,
lookamba, a legendary and mysterious ape. He suspected
became famous as the first modern outsider to describe
rilla), so it doesn’t seem possible that this was a type
one hundred years, from an estimated 1 mil-
fortune and profit from the continent’s resources.
that the Koolookamba was a species that scientists had
the existence of gorillas in Central Africa. After his ex-
of chimpanzee.
lion individuals to fewer than 300,000. The
ers. While early explorers sought to map the continent
yet to describe, so he searched for clues about the crea-
pedition, he also claimed, in his controversial 1861 book,
But for others, Africa cast a magic spell… which brings
ture, attempting to photograph and record its vocaliza-
Explorations and Adventures in Equatorial Africa, to
In Gabon today, 150 years after du Chaillu’s first expe-
dangered great ape, supports a population
us to our storied explorer, Gorilla Tommy.
tions. Days built into months and as they did, he awak-
have discovered a species he called the Koolookamba.
dition, there remains a belief among the human popu-
of no more than 300 individuals, while the
lation in a chimpanzee-gorilla hybrid, which they still
Mountain Gorilla of Rwanda, Uganda and the
call the ‘Kooloo-kamba’.
Democratic Republic of Congo are only 700
ened to a far deeper understanding of Africa. Stirred by Tommy began as an exploitive collector with the get-
the land, its people and their ways, he began to protect
In fact, du Chaillu shot a male primate in Southwest
rich-quick agenda of trading animals. That is, until his
the animals from which he once sought to profit.
Gabon and described it as a new sub-species of chim-
Cross River Gorilla, the world’s most en-
in number.
panzee, smaller than an adult male gorilla, but stockier
Fact or fiction, this forest creature ignited Gorilla Tom-
his timely rescue by indigenous people who treated his
From his slippery beginnings as a financial opportun-
than a female gorilla. He declared it more closely re-
my’s transformation from exploiter of the earth to a
The Houston Zoo works with field research-
severe injuries. The experience resulted in a newfound
ist, Tommy became a man transformed into a passionate
sembled a man than any other ape and that its name
protector of the environment. If the Koolookamba is a
ers and communities to support Great Ape
respect for the deep wisdom of his benefactors and their
defender of nature.
mimicked its call of “Kooloo, kooloo.”
myth, it’s a myth with a powerful impact.
conservation programs in Rwanda, Senegal
cargo plane went down. He survived, barely, thanks to
and the Republic of Congo.
10 |
AFRICAN FOREST 2010
www.houstonzoo.org
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“Africa is my solace, my place of peace. Where you learn that life is about basics and where the beauty of the world and the people around you is what really matters most.” Jane Quick, Botswana
African Marketplace
Strange Bedfellows? Not at all. The giraffes in the new African Forest will be sharing their home with ostriches and the Southern white rhinos will be rooming with a family of greater kudu antelope, mirroring the natural living ar-
The African Forest Field Guide Your journey through The African Forest has been made easier thanks to a great deal of work done by Gorilla Tommy. He created this hand-drawn map
rangements of these species in the wild.
after many years of living and working among the animals and the area’s
Naturalistic, mixed-species exhibits offer
eros, giraffe, and other animals, as well buildings and landmarks.
guests a view into the ecosystems and social interrelationships found in nature. Throughout The African Forest, the Zoo has designed and created authentic forest and savannah habitats that serve to educate its guests and meet all of the physical and social needs of the animal residents. The result is an experience that is both aesthetically pleasing for you and enriching for the animals. We sincerely hope you will fully immerse yourself in The African Forest and all that the new “neighborhood” has to offer. 12 |
The Outpost
indigenous peoples. On it you will find his drawings of chimpanzees, rhinoc-
This Field Guide points the way through The African Forest and provides information that will assist you in the greater pursuit of knowledge about Africa, its people, and the animals found there. In addition to Tommy’s crudely drawn map of The African Forest, the Houston Zoo has added information to aid in your educational experience. You’ll learn more about the Baka Pygmy tribe, who are native to the region, as well as important conservation stories such as the bushmeat crisis, which is a great threat to not only the animals, but the people of Africa. The Guide provides ways to learn more, including how you can help.
Tommy’s Treehouse
A complimentary Field Guide will be provided to you upon entrance to The African Forest. It is the hope of everyone at the Houston Zoo that your walk through The African Forest is just the first step in a greater pursuit of exploration and education.
AFRICAN FOREST 2010
www.houstonzoo.org
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“ Af r ica , t h e wild co nti ne n t; s h e i s k no w l e dg e a b l e a n d c a rri e s o u r h e ri ta g e , wi th a s tro n g l i fe fo rc e a n d a m a zi n g d iver sit y.”
Thabo Mokokonyane, Gaborone, Botswana
The Houston Zoo: Broadening Horizons
THE FOREST VILLAGE You begin on a path through a rock portal, emerging
storytelling setting for entertaining and educational
Zoos have evolved markedly over the past several de-
cation and conservation resource for the Houston com-
of their own classroom. Not only would they get the
in an open area that is home to the Herzstein Trad-
presentations by Zoo staff about The African Forest
cades. What once were mainly family recreational and
munity. The African Forest will provide a new venue
chance to learn about such a topic, but they would also
ing Post and a nature-based travel camp. Here, you’ll
wildlife.
entertainment venues have transformed into education
for both, as well as the exciting addition of technology-
have the unique opportunity to ask our Zoo educators
and conservation resources with regional and interna-
integrated exhibits which will enable the Zoo to take
questions in real time! This camera system will bring
tional impact.
its curriculum well beyond its grounds – with distance
a valuable element to K-12 classrooms in the Houston
learning.
area and beyond. Soon, students from across the globe
learn about the larger context of life in equatorial West Africa and the challenging issues facing the people of
Near the village, you can visit a Communications Hut
the region such as illegal poaching and the bushmeat
where conversations taking place throughout equato-
trade.
rial Africa are broadcast via a simulated shortwave
While the habitats of The African Forest are excep-
radio. Over the crackling, whining airwaves, Gorilla
tional educational tools in and of themselves, of equal
The African Forest features a state-of-the-art video cam-
Upon entering the forest beyond, you will find yourself
Tommy can be heard discussing incidents of poach-
importance is the Houston Zoo’s commitment to wild-
era system that can capture animal activities occurring
immersed in the exotic sounds and smells of the jungle.
ing and the bushmeat crisis with government officials.
life conservation. Each exhibit incorporates compelling
behind the scenes and after hours, as well as our Meet
What’s more, through distance learning, our Interac-
The path leads you to a modest Baka Pygmy Village of
Adjacent to the Communications Hut, keep an eye out
messages and timely information about the status of
the Keeper Talks. In addition, our Education staff will
tive Marketing department will bring the Zoo to chil-
small, round, leaf-covered huts where Tommy spent his
for piles of confiscated wire snares and insidious traps,
the animals in the wild.
have the ability to use video conferencing to conduct dy-
dren at neighboring hospitals in the Texas Medical
time recovering from the crash of his cargo plane.
underscoring the ongoing battle with poachers and the
namic presentations using bio-facts, live animals, and
Center. Launching in 2011, a video feed from a studio
video clips of the animals in their new homes.
based inside The African Forest will broadcast several
In the center of the settlement there is a fire pit, a
14 |
progress being made by officials who are striving to
Over the years, with Camp Zoofari, the Zoo’s summer
prevent poaching – an illegal and destructive practice.
day camp series, and Wild Winks, the overnight oppor-
could be served by the Houston Zoo’s distance learning program.
times each day to children who are unable to visit the
tunity for families, adults and school and Scout groups,
Imagine a rural school in West Texas being taught about
Zoo in person, providing an original and entertaining
the Houston Zoo has solidified its position as an edu-
rhino conservation efforts as they sit in the comfort
platform for our education and conservation programs.
AFRICAN FOREST 2010
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Conservation of the West African Chimpanzee in Southeastern Senegal
TOMMY’S TREEHOUSE
The West African chimpanzee in Senegal
Leaving the Herzstein Trading Post and Baka
survives in a region where temperatures
Pygmy Village behind, you’ll encounter Pygmy
during the dry season can reach over 115
art on a path through a shady grove. Word is Ko-
degrees in the shade, and rainfall is only 35
olookambas have been sighted here. Continue to
inches per year. Chimpanzees here live in
Tommy’s Treehouse, Gorilla Tommy’s home and
a habitat that is almost devoid of forest.
base of operations, said to be one of his favorite
Over 95% of their extensive home range
chimpanzee viewing areas.
consists of grassland or woodland, with tiny patches of forest making up the rest. Hunt-
Inside Tommy’s Treehouse, get a peek into Tom-
ing with tools, using caves, living with fire
my’s life in The African Forest by viewing his
(natural and human-made), soaking in water
personal effects, biological collections, Kooloo-
pools, and living in a more cohesive com-
kamba-related artifacts, photos, and videotape
munity are all behaviors that may be unique
archives.
to this chimpanzee community when compared to studies of this species elsewhere.
From these artifacts it’s clear that Tommy has
A new long-term project on the behavior
devoted a lot of time and energy to pursuing and
and ecology of the chimpanzee populations
protecting the mystery ape. Tommy is nowhere
in this region will be specifically address-
to be seen, but a message indicates he’s some-
ing imminent conservation problems asso-
where in the forest on a Koolookamba-related
ciated with chimpanzee communities which
field expedition.
have not been previously studied.
A video monitor shows shaky video clips of alleged Koolookamba sightings. Another clip
Chimpanzee Paradise: A Forest Playground
presents an interview with an African man who
The first place you are likely to get a
the keeper by a mesh wall, through which
out the treats, a behavior first seen by Dr.
the chimps to find some private space if
describes his own true-life encounters with the
glimpse of a chimpanzee is from inside
food treats can be passed as a reward for
Jane Goodall just fifty years ago.
they need a break from the group. Tree
ape. In yet another video, a clearly shaken man
Tommy’s Treehouse. A long expanse of
their participation. Guests can view this
describes a terrifying encounter with a bush-
windows provides a clear view into the
through a glass window and meet the
Further up the hill, a large climbing tree
partments for concealing food and provid-
meat poacher.
chimps’ habitat – a perfect place for pho-
keepers to ask questions.
provides both a comfortable resting spot
ing enrichment opportunities, which will
and a place for a game of chase. Round
help to keep the chimps active through-
tographing them. There, lucky guests
stumps and branches house hidden com-
In this setting, African Forest explorers can
may get as close to nose-to-nose as is pos-
Within the chimp exhibit, a termite
the bend and view the chimps in an open
out the day. The tall rock walls hide the
closely observe chimpanzees and gain insight
sible with these incredible apes.
mound is a popular gathering place when
yard across a rocky ravine. Shade trees
4000-square-foot, climate-controlled
it’s teeming with the chimps’ favorite
provide them with a cool spot for loung-
holding building where the chimps spend
tions with each other in much the same way
Keepers can work in close proximity with
snacks. Arrive at the right time and you
ing. It’s another great place for photos.
the night (with plenty of room to play).
that Gorilla Tommy collected his own research.
the chimps while demonstrating training
will see keepers load it up with tasty
that usually goes on behind the scenes. A
items like mustard and peanut butter.
More subtle features of the yard in-
With nearly a half acre to explore, every
chimp can enter a room, separated from
The chimps make tools from sticks to fish
clude the plantings and hills that allow
day is sure to be packed with activity.
into the animal’s behavior and their interac-
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MEET THE CHIMPS Abe, The Character ID: tall and wiry adult male
Lulu, The Thinker
Notes: Abe likes to put on a big display
ID: older adult female, look for her
but without the strength and size to
droopy lower lip
Charlie, The Patriarch
Lucy, The Mother
ID: adult male, gray beard and back
ID: older adult female, more pink on her face than the others
back it up, he stays in the background.
Notes: Charlie is not the biggest but his quiet
He does love the ladies, and has a
Notes: All the females follow Lulu and
particular fondness for Maizey.
the males know she has their support.
confidence makes him an ideal leader.
Notes: Lucy has excellent maternal skills and will
Captured in Africa as an infant and kept as a
even help raise another female’s baby. She can be
Lulu loves to watch people but watch
pet before living with the Lilles (see page 20),
a little bossy though, and has been known to send
out if she doesn’t get her way – she’s
Charlie seems to be enjoying his new home
the younger males running.
been known to throw quite a fit!
the most.
Sally, The Independent Riley, The Butterball ID: younger female, tall and lanky like ID: largest adult male, often seen
her dad, Abe
grooming Charlie Notes: More than any of the other Notes: Riley likes to make a lot of noise
chimps, Sally likes to spend some time
but the girls don’t pay much attention to
alone. The rest of the time, Sally is
him. He is old enough and strong enough
Willie’s best friend; they play for hours
to lead the group but backs up his dad
every day.
Charlie instead.
Mac, The Teenager ID: young adult male, often walks upright
Annie, The Sweetheart Maizey, The Gourmet
ID: younger adult female with a tiny white beard
Notes: Mac is excitable and vocal, more interested in people than all the other
ID: youngest and smallest of the group, his big ears and pink face make him easy to spot
ID: largest of the adult females
males. He likes the girls but they tend to push him around.
Willie, The Troublemaker
Notes: Maizey is Lucy’s daughter and they share many of the same traits. Maizey does love her food and has been known to get impatient if it’s not available when she wants it.
Notes: Annie tends to be quiet and stay out of the fray. She always comes
Notes: Willie has boundless energy for
over to greet people, making her a
playing and will resort to extreme methods
favorite of the staff.
to engage the others – jumping on them or slapping them and running away. But he’s also a peacemaker, the first to run up and hug everyone if a skirmish breaks out.
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What led you to make this decision?
ditioning, lights etc… It takes a lot of effort, funds and vision to get something like this done.
By Rick Barongi,
Carol: Greg and I talked a lot about what was going
Director of the Houston Zoo
to happen as we reached retirement age. Our goal was
And the outdoors is as incredible as the inside! It sim-
always to find or create a place to house the chimps into
ulates the wild as much as anyone ever could. There’s
Rhinos and their ancestors have walked
retirement.
plenty of room, and no caging, just open sky, flora, climb-
the earth for over 50 million years. Only
ing apparatus, water -- everything a chimp needs to be
five species remain (two in Africa and three
Greg: The chimps were fed and happy with us, but you
happy. In bad weather, the chimps can go in and be very
in Asia) barely clinging to survival in most
always want something more for them. We’ve been do-
comfortable.
of their ranges. With less than 22,000 rhi-
ing this for 38 years, I’m in my 60’s… Economics worked
Empty Nest, Full Hearts
Rhinos on the Brink
nos left on this planet, we have little time
against our plan to build a facility, so we began research-
Carol: The facility allows the chimps the freedom to
ing: Where do you go? How do we do this? The answers
use all their natural abilities to forage, brachiate across,
were very limited.
climb, swing, rest, and play. From an emotional stand-
The white rhino made an incredible come-
left to save them.
point, since they were raised around people, it’s also
back from the brink of extinction and is one
Carol: We worked really hard at keeping them as
comforting that the design of the back area allows keep-
of the truly legendary conservation suc-
chimps, not humanizing them, and also didn’t separate
ers to still interact with them.
cess stories. Reduced to less than 30 ani-
them but kept a group together, since social aspects are so important to their species.
mals in all of South Africa in the 1890s, to-
Greg: And the keepers are so dedicated! There are vets
day the white rhino numbers some 18,000
on staff, and the whole enterprise is taking care of the
animals – the majority of which reside in
Carol and Greg Lille are the previous own-
Greg: Because they were so well adjusted, we were ad-
chimps by running the business side, keeping funding
Kruger and Umfolozi-Hluhluwe reserves.
ers of our family of ten chimpanzees. The
vised they’d be unusually good candidates to adapt into
coming in.
Now they face a more serious threat to
Lilles have spent most of their lives caring
the zoo world. A facility like this one at The African For-
for and raising these chimps with obvious
est is rare. The Houston Zoo wanted a large group and
love and deep devotion. When they heard
it’s always been our goal to keep them together, since
of our plans for The African Forest they
they’ve been together all their lives.
were extremely impressed, which led them
their existence – organized poachers with
What’s next for you?
helicopters and automatic weapons. Nature is a tough place to survive, and when
Greg: That’s unknown. We’re still in this phase of help-
you are wearing a very valuable horn it is
ing the chimps adapt. We’re taking it one step at a time.
almost impossible.
to the decision to donate their chimps to
Carol: That was the key that made it work for us. If not,
But as we go on in life, we know they’ll be taken care of
the Houston Zoo.
it wouldn’t have happened.
best in this amazing facility. So we’ve met our goal. It’s
The rhino’s most defining feature is also its
Ironically, the rhino’s horn is not a true
that is where zoos play an important
tunity to see these magnificent crea-
the best example of win/win/win/win – the chimps, the
Achilles’ heel. The rhino’s horn (or two horns
horn but a compact mass of agglutinated
role. The real wild places are already
tures in the wild. Recent studies have
zoo, us and the public.
in the case of the African rhinos) is currently
Since the chimps arrived in mid-July, the
Greg: It was the perfect marriage between the Houston
hair-like fiber that is similar to our fin-
gone and most wildlife lives in small
confirmed that experiencing wildlife in
Lilles have been here, assisting our keep-
Zoo and us. There was much mutual respect and appre-
gernails. It is hard to believe that ingest-
pockets of protected habitats sur-
person is a powerful motivator for get-
ers to acclimate the chimps to their new
sold in the Asian black markets for over $1,000
ciation between the Zoo and us as private individuals.
an ounce (almost the same price as an ounce of
home. We sat down with them to find out how this
What do you think of the Houston Zoo’s chimp building and exhibit?
came about, and learn of their thoughts on the transition.
20 |
ing “fingernails” could be more effective
rounded by humanity. Even Kruger
ting people to care about and support
gold!). Never has the price and demand been
for reducing fever and arthritis than
National Park rhinos have to be man-
conservation. Seeing and working with
this high and that is promoting “rhino ter-
over-the-counter everyday drugs, but
aged and moved out when their num-
rhinos in zoos was the primary reason
rorism” in even the most protected parks like
age-old cultural beliefs are almost im-
bers exceed the carrying capacity of
I became so passionate about saving
Kruger. Nowhere are African rhinos safe from
possible to dispel.
the park’s boundaries.
them. I hope our three new rhino am-
Greg: It’s phenomenal! What’s impressive to me is that
poachers’ bullets; our three rhinos had to have
it’s expensive but there is no waste. It’s put together as
armed guards protecting them 24 hours a day
well as any building such as a hospital. There’s air con-
before we flew them to Houston.
bassadors will have the same effect on Rhino conservation involves more than
Most of our Zoo’s 1.7 million annual
you when you visit them (and their fu-
just protecting species in the wild, and
visitors would never have the oppor-
ture offspring) in our African Forest.
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The largest residents of The African Forest will
quite calm. Most zoo rhinos become relaxed with
be three white rhinos, weighing in at about 3,000
their keepers and seem to enjoy being scratched
pounds, and still growing! They had the longest jour-
and hand fed.”
ney, coming from a special rhino holding facility in South Africa. Born in Kruger National Park, these
Due to their strength and size – second only to
young adults have been in acclimation bomas since
the elephant as far as land mammals in Africa
June to prepare them for their flight to Houston.
– white rhinos don’t have many enemies, except for man. With a 4,000 pound mother backing you
The Houston Zoo’s original pair of white rhinos, Bu
up, rhinos calves aren’t born with an innate fear
and Marcy, also came from Africa in the early 1970’s
of other animals. There are many stories of hand
and were beloved ambassadors for their species for
reared orphan rhinos (a result of poachers kill-
over 30 years. So we are very excited that rhinos are
ing their mothers) and how strongly they bond
returning to the zoo and expect this trio (one male
with people and other animals for companion-
and two females) to produce rhino calves and add
ship. If treated with care and affection, they can
some much needed genetic diversity to the North
be gentle giants. That is why we can put a group
American zoo population. White rhinos are the most
of kudu antelope in their exhibit and know ev-
social rhino species and breed better in a group than
eryone will get along.
as a pair. Our rhinos were carefully selected for temperaThere are two species of rhinos in Africa, the white
ment and overall health. We chose young adults,
and the black rhino. Both are actually grey in color.
because they seem to acclimate quicker to zoo
It is believed that the white rhino got its name from
environments. They had to be treated for ticks
a mispronunciation of the Afrikaans word for wide
and other parasites and converted to a more nu-
(for their wide mouths). The white rhino’s distinc-
tritious diet to get them ready for their 54 hour
tively broad, square lip is ideally adapted for graz-
journey to their new home at the Houston Zoo.
ing grass. It is also called the “square-lipped” rhino, while the smaller black rhino is often referred to as
The new rhino habitat in The African Forest fo-
the “hook-lipped” rhino, because of its grasping up-
cuses on quality of space and daily enrichment
per lip.
to keep the rhinos active, both physically and psychologically. It will have shade and green
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RHINOS RETURN
Rhinos are truly amazing animals and a personal
grass and a big mud wallow, which rhinos love,
favorite of Houston Zoo Director Rick Barongi, who
especially in hot weather.
has worked with rhinos in several zoos and spent considerable time with them in African national
It’s the Houston Zoo’s hope that our impressive
parks. Rick said, “Their ill-tempered, aggressive
white rhinos will raise your awareness about
reputation is more the exception than the rule. You
their serious plight. Without increased protection,
do have to be careful approaching them in the wild,
all rhinos could disappear in the wild in the next
as they are very nearsighted.” He adds, “But they
20-50 years, and we cannot allow that to happen.
have excellent hearing and smell. Once they become
Humanity’s indifference is the rhinos’ most seri-
familiar with your voice and scent, they are usually
ous threat. Their survival is in our hands.
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High Masai Giraffe Conservation Giraffes are a common sight both at zoos and on nature documentaries. Many people do not realize that giraffes are as much in need of con ser vation at tention as rhinos, apes
and
giraffe
elephants.
sub - species
Many across
Africa are facing pressures from poaching, habitat loss and
fragmentation,
and
even human -wildlife conflict. Current
population
esti -
mates range from 8 0,0 0 0 to 14 0,0 0 0
individuals,
which
shows a need for intensive monitoring and census tech niques
for
giraffes
across
the African continent, in order to ensure their sur vival.
Masai giraffe at the Houston Zoo aspire to great
to associate with humans, unless allowed to
heights. Their new habitat in The African Forest
groom her herd mates. Her brothers and half-
is helping our herd of seven achieve that.
brothers have all sported ‘hairdos by Neema.’ Neema is only three, and like many kids, she
Tall and graceful at age 15, herd bull Kiva is in
isn’t keen on eating green vegetables either,
his prime. He is the virtual master of all he sur-
preferring carrots and yams. We’ll see if the
veys, and with the visual acuity of giraffes, that’s
lure of human interaction at the feeding plat-
quite a lot! He stands 16 feet tall and weighs
form overcomes this.
2,500 pounds. That size allows him to go where he pleases, eat the choicest morsels and keep tabs
Juvenile males Jack, Hasani and Miles make
on his cows. With a palate akin to a wine con-
up the rest of our herd, ranging from one to
noisseur, Kiva uses a remarkable combination of
three-years-old. Most of their time is spent
scent and taste to determine exactly when the
eating, browsing and ruminating, interspersed
girls will be responsive to his advances.
with some socializing and running.
Leggy Tyra, our oldest cow, is 12 years old and
Meet the Neighbors
currently pregnant with calf number six. With
Ostriches are the giraffes of the bird world and
a 15-month gestation, giraffe females, like most
can grow to nine feet tall. Two female ostriches
hoofed animals, spend most of their adult life
will join giraffes in their African Forest exhibit.
pregnant. Tyra gives birth to large calves and
Like giraffes, ostriches are tall, with long legs
provides excellent maternal care for about 12
and excellent eyesight. If they see a predator
months.
coming they can run 45 mph for short distances and maintain 30 mph for longer. If cornered,
Not Your Average New-Home Construction!
Masai giraffe are the most numerous of the nine
they can deliver a strong kick with their two-
giraffe subspecies, but only 90 are exhibited in
toed foot.
North American zoos. To maintain genetic diver-
Incredible location! One of a kind new
The Zoo’s extended family of giraffes has
tall, with 18-foot doorways to accommo-
windows. Outside, the giraffes have a third
sity in such a small population, Mtembei, a three-
Their diet is omnivorous, but relies heavily on
construction on an oversized lot: this
moved into their new digs in The African
date the world’s tallest animals, giving a
of an acre to roam with their ostrich room-
year-old bull, was brought in from Cincinnati as a
plants and fruits. Similar to giraffes, ostriches
new home features a lovely brick exterior,
Forest. Not only were the giraffes in need
whole new meaning to the term “vaulted
mates and delight in the new opportunity for
future breeder. He is our darkest giraffe; at 1,800
drink when water is available, but are normal-
dramatic two-story entry, vaulted ceil-
of a spacious and more modern new home,
ceilings.” With around 4,000 square feet
personal experiences with you at the much
pounds and 13-feet tall he has some growing to
ly able to gain sufficient water from their food.
ings throughout, private balcony, plenty
their move made way for the expansion of
inside, the giraffes are enjoying spacious
anticipated giraffe feeding platform.
do before he catches up to Kiva. Mtembei spars
of storage and work space, and upgrades
the habitat for our Asian elephant herd.
and comfortable overnight quarters that
galore. This is urban living at its finest,
lightly with him, but isn’t big enough yet for a
Our giraffes are content in their brand new
are ventilated in the summer and heated
The keepers were the ones to unpack the box-
real necking session, the giraffe equivalent to
barn, and have been eagerly awaiting the ex-
in the winter.
es as the giraffes got settled into the newest
arm wrestling.
hibit’s Grand Opening, so they can hang out
with a unique floor plan and large family
Taking nine months from start to occu-
room that are well suited for entertain-
pancy, building the new giraffe exhibit
ing guests, and a nicely landscaped back
was certainly not your average new-home
When they are indoors, you can view the
history. Don’t miss this stop along the trail of
Every group has a diva and Neema is ours! She
see how you measure up. The giraffes highly
yard, big enough for a growing family.
construction. The edifice had to be 30 feet
giraffes through three seven-foot tall
The African Forest!
sometimes forgets she’s a giraffe and prefers
recommend it!
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and most exciting neighborhood in the Zoo’s
with you at the public feeding platform. Come
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F eed Our Hungry Herd – And Yours Since the Zoo has become one of Houston’s entertaining hot spots, can you give some examples of unique dishes you have created for specific events?
Will there be any new African-themed menu items?
There is a new way to visit with our Masai giraffe family, who have
stranger. Imagine them meeting you, batting their long lashes as they
been among the most beloved at the Houston Zoo for their charm and
lower their giant heads and gently take a crunchy lettuce leaf from
obvious curiosity about their visitors.
your hand!
In addition to 270 degrees of open viewing of their yard and barn,
The giraffe exhibit lies just off the broad dining plaza of The African
one highly anticipated feature of the giraffe habitat will be a nearly
Forest’s new restaurant, Twiga Terrace – a lovely place to feed your-
eye-level feeding platform! Standing seven feet higher than the plaza
self! The architecture has a French Colonial feel, with soaring ceilings
We’ve produced some awesome events, with really im-
foods, but it’s got to be familiar to them. So we’re doing
level, the platform will elevate you that much closer to the
lit by chandeliers, arch top windows graced with Bermuda shutters,
pressive food. One that comes to mind is Feast with the
a twist on known foods that are cooked with indigenous
world’s tallest animal. At certain times of the day, you will
decorative brackets, and a terra cotta tile roof. Sit inside or on dual
Beasts in the Bud Light Lounge. We made all items
techniques and flavors.
be able to make your way up a ramp to the feeding
terraces outside, where your choice of rhinos or giraffes are the view!
on that menu cooked with Bud Light beer! The mini
offer a snack to your long-necked pals.
beer-brats on a pretzel bun were my personal favorite.
to entertain in Houston, there are a variety of spots throughout this Feeding giraffes is arguably one of life’s
I think it is appropriate to have a menu to reflect our
This is just one of several new sites within The African Forest that can serve as an event space. If you are looking for one of the hottest places brand new environment where you can hold your party.
peak experiences. Our group is par-
Catching up with Chef Shane
diversity. We’ve created indigenous dishes from Africa,
Imagine your employees or clients enjoying
As the chef you obviously manage the menu and preparation of the food but you really are involved in much more than that.
Asia and Brazil, to name just a few.
ticularly friendly. As Laurie Mc-
Just across the path is the Shani Market where the same design influ-
cocktails in the Reptile House and dessert
Givern, our Supervisor of
ence is found in details, such as arched pediments over the doorway
surrounded by our majestic elephant herd!
Hoofed Stock says,
and sculpted French columns. Here you can browse through and pur-
Over 150 businesses and organizations al-
they have nev-
chase a variety of items that represent The African Forest and the
ready take advantage of this beautiful and
Houston Zoo, as gifts or a memorable keepsake.
affordable option for entertaining each year.
Tying all the components of an event to the location is
And now those options have expanded.
the goal. After the menu comes together, I turn my fo-
er met a
already bought a bunch of rustic decor and designed menus, keeping in mind that we want people to try new
area (getting a birds-eye view of the giraffes and ostriches in the process) and, for a reasonable fee,
In anticipation of The African Forest opening we’ve
With the new restaurant in The African Forest being so close to the Medical Center do you see it as a new lunch option for visitors and employees? Absolutely. With the diversification of our new cafes and stands, why wouldn’t you want to come over, grab a bite, sit, and watch the rhinos during your lunch hour?
cus on how we’re going to display the items. I want to In The African Forest there are even more
be as unique as the venue is, so I try to find things that
opportunities to host your guests, now in
aren’t your ordinary way to put things together or pres-
the setting of equatorial Africa. The most
ent them. The goal is to have people’s reaction be one of,
picturesque venue in Houston will be in the
“Holy cow! They did that at the Zoo?”
new chimpanzee viewing building. Parties
African Forest for your group!
When you think about The African Forest and the potential for events, what are some of the things that get you most excited?
The best part about using the Houston Zoo
I’m really excited about the backdrop for our events
for your event is that it‘s turn-key. Our event
-– the actual habitats themselves. The designers have
professionals will take care of all of your
done a top notch job creating them. Even before we saw
party’s details, while the Houston Zoo’s own
The African Forest completed, it was blowing away any-
Chef Shane will help prepare a feast that
thing I’ve seen at other zoos! It will be fun to work off of
meets your culinary needs.
that as our inspiration, for both the décor and the menu.
can also be hosted in the Forest Village, the Twiga Terrace restaurant and The African Forest Plaza. You can also rent the entire
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Cheetahs and Dogs Together Again in a New Home Continuing on after the giraffe barn you will find the
well as hills and rocks that are the cheetahs’ favor-
Did you know Kito, Kiburi and Taji are also animal
new cheetah habitat. Like giraffes, the cheetahs were
ite resting spots. Taji has her own private yard in
ambassadors that leave their exhibit to make spe-
given a new home to make way for the continued ex-
the back but spends time on exhibit with one or the
cial appearances around the Zoo and at events? We
pansion of our elephant exhibit. Our cheetahs, Kito and
other of the cheetahs as well. On those hot Houston
raised our cheetahs from just a few days old with Taji
Kiburi, brought along their favorite Anatolian shepherd
days, a mister and fan help keep the exhibit cool and
so that they would grow up as companions. Anatolian
dog Taji to a new yard that’s just as big as the old one,
comfortable.
shepherd dogs are used in Africa to help farmers pro-
with a nicely upgraded barn.
tect their livestock. The large size and intimidating This new exhibit also provides plenty of opportuni-
bark of an Anatolian shepherd dog scares off chee-
The viewing area for the cheetah exhibit is surrounded
ties for our keepers to do training demonstrations
tahs so farmers no longer shoot them. Kito, Kiburi
by the same realistic rockwork seen throughout The Af-
and set up the lure course, which is always a favorite
and Taji help us share the story of how a dog is help-
rican Forest. You have a clear view of a shallow pool as
of guests and animals alike.
ing to save cats.
The Conservation Challenge, Locally and Globally
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Zoos and aquariums of the 21st century are challenged to go
Since 2005, the Houston Zoo has expanded its role to encompass a
beyond the care, exhibition, and breeding of wildlife to be-
number of global and regional conservation and research initiatives in
come centers for conservation and partners on the ground in
countries across the world, recently placing a special emphasis on the
global efforts to preserve threatened wildlife. The Houston
equatorial regions of Africa. Whether right here at home in Texas, or
Zoo strives to be a leader in conservation as it relates to the
in Latin America, Asia or Africa, the Houston Zoo Wildlife Conserva-
survival of threatened wildlife and habitats, the wise use of
tion Program partners with leaders in the field to support and protect
natural resources, and the appreciation of our natural world
wildlife and their habitats, by combining conservation with education,
by the Zoo’s audiences.
and the promotion of sustainable livelihoods in local communities.
AFRICAN FOREST 2010
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One of the words used to describe The African Forest is “immersive.” From an architect’s point of view, what does that mean?
process in creating them and what purpose they serve? There is a need to create barriers to keep the animals in. How do you do that naturally? Our landscape architect
A totality, not something that is applied. Viewing
likes to develop a geological story and involve it with
structures, the restaurant, the gift shop -- all are de-
the design. For example, we imagined that at one time
signed down to the last detail. For example, we really
a river had cut these mud banks, and that is why the
researched the right fixtures for the gift shop. It isn’t
trees are at the top. It’s not necessarily a story we tell
like we just built the building, went out to a craft shop,
the public, but that‘s what we used as we worked on this.
bought some African masks and said, “You’re in Africa.” We actually went to Gabon, studied the architecture and really tried to bring that back and recreate it.
My first reaction to that is that Afr i c a i s s o b i g. H o w c a n y o u r e c r e ate it?
Architects of Africa
We looked at just piece of it and tried to give Zoo guests
An
give them a sense of being taken away on a journey. We
Interview
with
Patrick
Janikowski,
AIA, of PJA Architects, designers of The African Forest Before a shovel ever broke ground or the animals you’re seeing occupied this acreage, a team of architects and designers took the dream of The African Forest and started creating the reality. Accomplishing this entailed trips to Africa, many hours spent researching, interviewing important constituents, and writing the stories of The African Forest. Patrick Janikowski spent some time talking with us about this vision and what it took to achieve the final results.
30 |
The animal exhibits are amazing but there is so much more to The African Forest – Twiga Terrace Restaurant, the Herzstein Trading Post and the forest walk, for example. Can you explain how it all ties in?
the feeling we had when we were there. We want to mimicked plants that would be in the African forest region and matched the rockwork in the riverbanks, all to suspend disbelief.
The Houston Zoo told you what they wanted to accomplish with The African Forest, which is so different than anything else that has been done. How did you get started?
It’s always about the animals first. You look at how
may be, and where to give them a respite from visitors.
I want the guest to say, “I enjoyed it because I had a
enjoy what they do, so they take better care of the animals.
It is very much like set development for a movie. The
Then you determine: what do we need for barriers for
great experience. I learned something, I was in there
If the animals are happy, they look good and the guests are
the animals first and then how can we bring some of
with them. Now I want to do something.” If they be-
happy. That is a win/win situation. I think we have accom-
the elements of those barriers into the public spaces?
come members, support conservation or leave wanting
plished that.
that story.
When you walk through The African Forest, you feel
to do more, then we have done something important.
like you are in the animal’s space, not that they’re in
We’re looking for that moment of connection between
Also, I want to walk through the exhibit and hear people
Some of the most impressive pieces of The African Forest are the rock walls. Can you briefly explain the
your space. The guests come and go, but the animals
the guest and the animal. If you’re up close with a
ask, “Is it real? Look at the animals, look how natural it all
are here for the rest of their lives. They need to be com-
chimp and they are looking into your eyes, you’re going
is.” I hope this exhibit shows the community what can be
fortable and feel safe.
to want to do something.
done, and what needs to be done for Phase Two and Three.
first thing we do is write a story narrative and then express it in the immersion. The design needed to reflect
they may move through or use an exhibit, then look
What are you most excited for the guests to see?
Of what are you most proud? If you have happy keepers, they enjoy going to work. They
at where the best locations for viewing those animals
AFRICAN FOREST 2010
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“In Af r ica, we ar e blessed t o be sur r ounded by wilde r ne s s and w e s t ill hav e t he o ppo r t unit y t o de m o ns t r at e t hat w e c an liv e in har m o ny w it h t he e ar t h.” R eb ec c a K l ei n , B o t swa n a
“Ensuring that individuals not only get fed, but get an appropriate diet can be a challenge,” said Laurie McGivern, hoofed stock supervisor. “Creating a food holder for a crane that a 16 inch okapi tongue can’t get into is a major feat.” Because the hoofed stock department has such diversity (which you can read about on page 8)r one seems to be the Masai giraffe feedings. any animals for public interaction requires a lot of teamwork, and the hoofed stock crew knows a thing or two about it. During training sessions, each keeper is responsible for an individual giraffe, while the rest of the team provides back up support. The completion and Grand Opening of
The extended impact of The African For-
The African Forest is a historic moment
est is most visible at the Houston Zoo’s
for the Houston Zoo and the City of
McNair Asian Elephant Habitat. While
Houston. Several years, tens of millions
our herd is made up entirely of Asian el-
of dollars, and countless hours have been
ephants, they are benefiting greatly from
invested to make this a monumental mo-
The African Forest opening.
ment for our community. In addition to the donations raised for
WHAT’S NEXT? If you love The African Forest, just wait until you see what’s next! 32 |
The significance of The African Forest
the expansion, a portion of The African
will have a long lasting impact both on
Forest’s budget has been dedicated to not
our community and on the guest experi-
only expand our elephant’s living space,
ence at the Houston Zoo. But the expe-
but to add amenities to it, including an
rience is not just contained within the
80-thousand gallon, elephant-sized swim-
20-foot high rock walls that border the
ming pool, a presentation area for both
exhibits. Nor will the experience end
Meet the Keeper Talks and training dem-
with the six-and-a-half acres of land that
onstrations, and an abundance of shade
make up this new addition to the Zoo.
structures and trees.
When an animal has a medical procedure, working This newest elephant exhibit is sched- makes plans to grow The African Forest together as one is required. Most animals are seuled to open in May 2011. Construction across another six-and-a-half acres with dated, then carried by five or six keepers to get to started in late November, after our Ma- Phases Two and Three. the clinic (though our vets do make house calls for sai giraffe herd moved from their previthe bigger animals). ous Zoo home to their beautiful new barn Highlights of the next two phases include and habitat in The African Forest. It also gorillas, Nile crocodiles, hippos and more “Taking a nyala antelope to the dentist is quite difrequired the relocation of our cheetahs chapters in the story of Gorilla Tommy ferent from transporting the family dog to the vet,” and Taji, our Anatolian shepherd dog, and the Koolookumba. These expansions said McGivern. to a new home just outside The African combined will equal the current size of Forest, where they become back-to-back Phase One of The African Forest. The job requires enormous commitment and hard neighbors with our African wild dogs. work. Communication and coordination of details As has been the case with Phase One, are key. And yet, the rewards are great. Each of the As you make your way along the forest construction of the next phases will be keepers have special memories. For some it may be walk in The African Forest and enjoy the largely determined by community supbottle feeding Miles the giraffe when he was first largest expansion in Zoo history, try to port. This includes but is certainly not born, for another it might be a time when Olive the imagine the exhibit being twice as big. limited to contributions in the form of doanteater stuck her nose in their boot, and tickled That is exactly what’s in store as the Zoo nations and Zoo memberships. their toes with her tongue! With such a wide assortment of animals it’s clear that the keepers in the
To f i n d out how you can conti nue to support the Houston Zoo hoofed stock department get to have some pretty a n d Th e A fri can Forest by vi si ti ng www.houstonzoo.org/afri canforest.
AFRICAN FOREST 2010
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33
Adams, Stephanie
Brewer, Laura
Crump, Paul
Galan, Aleyda
Hime, Elaine
King, Larry
Mays, Stan
Owens, Kendall
Robinson, Silvester
Ufer, Kirsten
Ali, Jihad
Brothers, T
Daly, Amanda
Galvan, Al
Hodge, Kevin
Klein, Kim
McAuliffe, Judy
Ozuna, Michele
Rommel, Rachel
Valdez, Viviana
Alvarado, Luis
Brown, Allison
Darjean, Antoine
Garcia, Adriane
Hoffman, Daryl
Kleinworth, Emma
McCoy, Travis
Partello, Louise
Rossi II, Napoleon
Van Wert, Jessica
Amie, Krystal
Brown, D
Davis, Jonah
Garcia, Denise
Holmes, Chris
Koneval, Maureen
McCreery, Kelly
Patterson, Brandon
Roth, Ashley
Vandenberg, Joshua
Anders, LaKila
Browning, Russell
De Anda, Nicte
Garcia, Juan
Howard, Dr. Lauren
Kuntz, Kathy
McGallian, Tiffany
Patterson, Cortney
Russo, Kelly
Varela, Abby
Anderson, Kathleen
Bryja, Judith
DeKanter, Cassandra
Garibaldi, Shaun
Howard, Steve
Lackey, Debbie
McGivern, Laurie
Patzer, Holly
Ryan, Rene
As we celebrate the opening
Anderson, Lucy Dee
Buhrmester, Tammy
DeLeon, Belinda
Garner, Teia
Huber, Heather
Land, Anna
McLain, Jen
Pepin, Marjorie
Sanders, Walter
of the African Forest, we want
Anderson, Tammie
Bumpus, Renee
Devine, Jr., JD
Garza, Elizabeth
Hughes, Cotney
Latham, Ashley
McWilliams, Glen
Perez, Glenda
Sanford, Chance
to extend a special thanks to
Arriaga, Fred
Burkell, Liz
Dones, Bennett
Garza, Yuli
Hutto, Drew
Lavergne, Amy
Menefee, James
Perez, Rosa
Santos, Giovanni
our dedicated staff for their
Avendano, Lisa Marie
Burnett, Laura
Dorris, Oren
Giddins, Lilly
Ingram, Charlona Vee
Lavictoire, Kara
Merlos, Ashley
Peterson, Tess
Santos, Ron
hard work and continued ser-
Baccus, Marcy
Cadriel, Patrick
Drabek, Cynthia
Gillis, Chris
Jackson, Dianne
LeBlanc, Chanika
Meza, Nick
Petre, Martha
Santoyo, Maria
vice. Thank you for all that
Bailey, Hannah
Campbell, Melanie
Durkee, Stephanie
Godambe, Rachel
Jaramillo, Juliann
LeBoff, Cory
Mickens, Kendrick
Pierre, Jenee
Saunders, Cathren
you do to foster appreciation,
Barnhill, Amy
Cannon, Deborah
Easely, Megan
Gomez, Alexandra
Jeffers, Erica
Lechner, Damian
Miranda, Janie
Pietrucha-Mays, Phyllis
Schaefer, Beth
knowledge
Barongi, Rick
Carpenter, Tina
Ellis, Rick
Gomez, Martha
Jesudason, Audra
Leeson, Cindy
Montgomery, Sam
Pine, Jack
Schmit, Matt
Webber, Krista
Barrera, Edgar
Carter, Joel
Espinosa, Nick
Gomez, Silvestre
Johnson, ShaTara
Lemon, Erica
Moon, Ginger
Pizano, Jody
Scroggins, Ryan
Webster, Tricia
Barrera, Juan
Casey, Kirby
Farley, Priscilla
Gonzalez, Carlos
Jolicoeur, Nathalie
Ligon, Courtney
Moor, Tequera
Pohlman, Andrea
Sears, Katie
Whitaker, Alicia
Barrera, Renato
Castorena, Kevin
Farr, William
Gonzalez, Yxzel
Jones, PJ
Lippman, Kathryn
Moore, Joseph
Posey, Brett
Shea, Diane
White, Regina
Bednarski, Chris
Castrejon, Elena
Fernandez, Ruben
Goodie, Brittany
Joseph, Rochelle
Lomas, Courtney
Moorhead, Beth
Pyle, Angie
Shepard, Susan
Whitted, Jeremy
Bergman, Jason
Cavazos, Jesse
Fisher, Beunka
Gordon, Maurice
Joseph, Sharon
Lomas, Sabrina
Morales, Modesto
Quassa, Erin
Sheppard, Callian
Whitted, Leigh
Bernardy, Rob
Cecil, Jeremy
Flanagan, Dr. Joe
Guerra, Omar
Junker, Sam
Lytle, Sheri
Morgan, Debra
Rabon, Michelle
Shotola, Kim
Williams, Brittney
Berry, Leighann
Clark, Jessica
Flores, Maria
Gutierrez, Hernando.
Junker, Tim
Machuca, Jose
Morgan, Lee
Ramsey, DeAndra
Siegl, Kim
Williams, Ciera
Berting, Amy
Clarke, Taylor
Fontenot, Christine
Haley, Kyle
Jurek, Suzanne
Macias, Maribel
Morrison, Wendy
Ratcliff, Troy
Sigle, Jessica
Williams, Joe
Bethke, Vanessa
Coburn, Thomas
Forester, Eddie
Hamilton, Isahia
Kaleel, Brooke
Macomber-Ramirez, Courtney
Morse, Ellie
Reed, Paul
Silas, Shanaeya
Bibeau, Bonnie
Cockrell, Bresean
Forestier, Leslie
Hannon, David
Kalla, Joe
Maitran, Mersing
Murphy, Billy
Reyes, Erick
Simpson, Greg
Bishop, Paul
Colahan, Hollie
Francis, Melvin
Harmison, Greg
Kandiko, Ben
Malek, Phil
Neal, Megan
Reyes, Sharon
Smith, Cedric
Blackmon, Amy
Concannon, Mike
Frenzel, Jeff
Harvey, Amy
Kazen, Cheka
Malone, Kaylie
Nosakhere, Nkosane
Reynolds, Thomas
Sokol, Victoria
Boostrom, Helen
Conkin, Megan
Frey, Anita
Hawkins, Tommy
Keel, Danny
Mann, Rodney
Nunn IV, Ernest
Riger, Peter
Solis, Henry
Boyd, Tinker
Contreras, Carlos
Fries, Elizabeth
Hayes, Sundra
Keith, Cathy
Marin, Dr. Maud
Nusbaum, Amelia
Riger, Sara
Soria, Vanessa
Bradley, Eugene
Copley, Dante
Fuhrman, Alissa
Henigar, Ryanne
Kemery, Alicia
Martinez, Michael
Oliver, Gerald
Rinkenberger, Kamryn
Soussan, Lila
Brady, David
Cortez, Elizabeth
Fuhrman, Grant
Hernandez, Yanira
Kenney, Susan
Masharani, Kara
Olivo, Sylvia
Rinker, Mandy
Spillman, Renee
Brandy III, George
Coym, Mollie
Futch, Becky
Herrera, Paula
Killam, Lynn
Massop, CB
Ortega, Paul
Ritter, Jessica
Sprague, Karen
Zewe, Carolyn
Branstetter, Jr., Carter
Cross, Seth
Gadus, Pame
Hill, Brian
King, Ben
Matthews, April
Orth, Ami
Robbins, Melissa
Stevens, Martina
Zuma Jr., Paul
THANK YOU!
and
natural world.
Houston Zoo Staff (As of October 2010)
34 |
care
of
the
AFRICAN FOREST 2010
Vass, Rachel Villarreal, Chris Vincent, Brooke Wachsmann, Mike Warfield, Pam Warren, Christine Watts, Mark
Williams, John Winecki, James Witek, Michelle Wooden, Errol Woodford, Kim Young, Josh Zelmer, Amber
www.houstonzoo.org
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35
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The Brown Foundation, Inc.
Strake Foundation
Catherine Campbell Brock
Sam W. Gainer
Houston Endowment Inc.
Linnet F. Deily
Austin and Susan Young
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Miller
The Wortham Foundation, Inc.
The Lillian H. & C.W. Duncan Foundation
Suzanne and Bob Nimocks
S. Shawn Stephens and James M. Jordan
The Robert and Janice McNair Foundation
The Favrot Fund
John, Sally and Kate Cox
Randa and Charlie Williams
The Robert R. and Kay M. Onstead Foundation
Jonathan and Barbara Day
Docents and Volunteers of the Houston Zoo
Karen W. Johnson
Kathrine G. McGovern
Devon Energy Corporation
Fort Bend Mechanical
The Gerson and Margolis Family
Annie and Bob Graham
Kinder Foundation
Bob and Vicki Harvey
Julie and Drew Alexander
The Cullen Foundation
The Nau Family and Silver Eagle Distributors
Mary Lou Henry
Atlantic Trust Private Wealth Management
The Fondren Foundation
Rick Barongi and Diane Ledder
Sheila and Ron Hulme
Baker Hughes Incorporated
Chevron
Judy O. and Kenneth C. Margolis
Courtney and Christopher Sarofim
E. Philip Cannon
John P. McGovern Foundation
AIM Foundation
J. Michael and Patricia Solar Family Fund
The Chaney Foundation
Albert and Margaret Alkek Foundation
Lynne S. and John Averett
Kay and Max Watson
Debbie and Kent Chenevert
Albert and Ethel Herzstein Charitable Foundation
Charles T. Bauer Foundation
M. Carolina Weitzman
Meg Goodman and Mike Bonini
Zoo Friends of Houston, Inc.
BMC Software
Charles and Anne Duncan
CFP Foundation
The Dan L. Duncan Family
James and Molly Crownover Family Foundation
H-E-B
Hamill Foundation
Vic and Barbara Samuels
The Tapeats Fund
Vivian L. Smith Foundation
The William Stamps Farish Fund
Sodexo
United States Department of Education
Michael and Carol Linn
The Carruth Foundation
The Lowenstein Family
Nancy and David Pustka
The Hildebrand Fund
Barbara and Louis Sklar
Isla and Tommy Reckling
The Meadows Foundation
Andrew and Freda Bass
Sara Lou Brown
Estate of Billie Lee Danz
Jeffrey C. Hines / Hines Interests L.P.
Cristina and Jim Buaas
U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development
Deborah and Gardner Cannon
Burguieres Family Foundation
Donald and Diane Kendall, Jr. Family Foundation
Ann and Stephen Kaufman
Elkins Foundation
Herbert D. Simons
M.D. Anderson Foundation
Cathryn and Doug Selman
M.D. Matthews Foundation
Merrill and Joe Hafner
Scurlock Foundation
Shannon and Gary Margolis
William S. and Lora Jean Kilroy Foundation
George and Cynthia Woods Mitchell
Sylvie and Gary Crum
The W. T. and Louise J. Moran Foundation
Shell Oil Company
Tess K. Peterson
Texas Parks & Wildlife
Bonnie and David Weekley Fund
them for believing in this vision and for helping to make
Service Systems Associates
Toni and Noel Noble
this incredible dream a reality.
Sterling-Turner Foundation
Johanna A. Favrot Fund
Laura and John Arnold Foundation
Peggy and Bill Barnett
Win and Lynn Campbell Britten Fund The Holthouse Foundation for Kids Lawrence and Mildred Lieder Betty and Stephen Newton Barbara Segal Goldfield
Sunny and Mac Haik /Mac Haik Enterprises The Lee and Joseph D. Jamail Foundation Penny and Paul Loyd Macquarie Energy Capital DeeDee and Wallis Marsh Memorial Hermann Patterson and Sheridan, LLP Macey and Harry Reasoner Janet & John Springer Tricia and Paul Swen Kelli and John Weinzierl/The Weinzierl Family Fund George, Shanti, Shangrila and Shivanti Willy Wortham Insurance & Risk Management
THANK YOU! The African Forest would not be possible without our amazing donors and their generous support. We thank
*Donors listed, $5000 and above
AFRICAN FOREST 2010
Dr. Jane Goodall with Mac, in The African Forest’s new chimpanzee viewing building
“I became totally absorbed into this forest existence… For those who have experienced the joy of being alone with nature there is really little need for me to say much more.” – Jane Goodall