Zoo View - Summer 2020 by Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association

SUMMER

20 ISSUE

In Remembrance The Zoo’s flags were lowered to half-staff in May in memory of the nearly 100,000 people in the United States who had died thus far from COVID-19.

THE QUARTERLY MAGAZINE OF THE GREATER LOS ANGELES ZOO ASSOCIATION

Photo by JAMIE PHAM

ZOO BRIEFS

EDITOR Brenda Scott Royce

GLAZA OFFICERS Beth Price, Chair Brian Diamond, Vice Chair Laura Z. Wasserman, Vice Chair Phyllis Kupferstein, Secretary Gregory D. Fuss, Treasurer Tom Jacobson, GLAZA President

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Sandy Masuo EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Kait Hilliard, Tom Jacobson, Dan Keeffe, Dr. Jake Owens, Beth Schaefer, Eugenia Vasels, Denise M. Verret

GLAZA TRUSTEES Alma Banuelos, Alexis Miller Buese, Michael Bustamante, Jillian Romero Chaves, Richard Corgel, Wendy M. Denham, Rob Ellis, Cassidy Horn, Laura Kaplansky, Tyler K. Kelley, Diann H. Kim, Anthony Kitchener, Richard Lichtenstein, Alan G. Lowy, Betty White Ludden, Steve O’Connell, Marc L. Sallus, Patricia Silver, Slash, Jay Sonbolian, Erika Aronson Stern, Madeline Joyce Taft, Franco Terango, Ellia M. Thompson, Michael Wandell, Jennifer Thornton Wieland, Angela Yim-Sullivan

ZOO PHOTOGRAPHER Tad Motoyama

Copyright © 2020 Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association. All rights reserved. Reproduction of the whole or any part of the contents of this publication without written permission is prohibited. POSTMASTER send address changes to: ZOO VIEW, 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90027-1498

ZO O V I E W

A ROARING SUCCESS BY THE NUMBERS BABY BOOM WARM WELCOME AT MAHALE MOUNTAINS

DESIGN & PRODUCTION Lisa Brink, The Brink Creative PRINTING LithoGraphix

ZOO-M IN

Members’ photo gallery

DONOR SPOTLIGHT

How the Los Angeles Zoo adapted to the unprecedented challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

BRINGING THE ZOO TO YOU

While we can’t welcome guests through our gates, we’ve been working to bring the Zoo to you through various digital platforms.

STEPPING UP

Compassionate Zoo staffers answer the call to serve the community during this time of crisis.

20 EXPERT PERSPECTIVES Our experts weigh in on the vital links

DEPARTMENTS

CHANGING TIMES

DR. MONICA METZDORF Walking for Wildlife

between human and animal health, and the Zoo’s role in combatting the illegal wildlife trade.

DIPLOMACY SPARKS CONSERVATION CONVERSATIONS

Zoo Director Denise Verret joins a delegation of zoo and aquarium professionals on a conservation tour of the UAE.

PROOFREADERS Laura Parada, Lynne Richter

S U MME R 2020

ON THE COVER Tough and resilient, ostriches belong to the group of flightless birds known as ratites—one of the most primitive of the modern bird families Photo by JAMIE PHAM

S U MME R 2020

MARK PENNING, BVSC

ZOO VIEW (ISSN 0276-3303) is published quarterly by the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association as a benefit to members. For information about membership, visit www.lazoo.org/membership

4 4 5 5

PHOTO EDITOR & PHOTOGRAPHER Jamie Pham

TRUSTEES EMERITI Willard Z. Carr, Jr., Lloyd Levitin, Mrs. John F. Maher, Shelby Kaplan Sloan, Thomas R. Tellefsen, Polly Turpin GLAZA ADMINISTRATION Eugenia Vasels, VP, Institutional Advancement Kait Hilliard, VP, Marketing Gretchen Humbert, VP, Chief Financial Officer Lisa Correa, Director of Membership Dawn Petersen-Amend, General Counsel Sara Rodriguez, Director of Special Events Kirin Daugharty, Director of Volunteer Programs

F E AT U R E S

LOS ANGELES ZOO ADMINISTRATION Denise M. Verret, Chief Executive Officer & Zoo Director Beth Schaefer, Director of Animal Programs Dr. Dominique Keller, Director of Animal Wellness Programs Mei Kwan, Director of Admin. and Operations Dan Keeffe, Director of Learning and Engagement Tom LoVullo, Director of Construction and Maintenance Dr. Jake Owens, Director of Conservation Darryl Pon, Director of Planning and Development April Spurlock, Communications Director Denise Tamura, Executive Assistant

JAMIE PHAM

LOS ANGELES ZOO COMMISSION Karen B. Winnick, President Bernardo Silva, Vice President Margot Armbruster Christopher Hopkins Daryl Smith Richard Lichtenstein, Ex-Officio Member

SUMMER 2020 VOLUME LIV // NUMBER 2

JAMIE PHAM

MAYOR OF LOS ANGELES Eric Garcetti

contents

SPECIAL ISSUE

23 ZO O V I E W

In Remembrance The Zoo’s flags were lowered to half-staff in May in memory of the nearly 100,000 people in the United States who had died thus far from COVID-19.

THE QUARTERLY MAGAZINE OF THE GREATER LOS ANGELES ZOO ASSOCIATION

Photo by JAMIE PHAM

ZOO BRIEFS

EDITOR Brenda Scott Royce

GLAZA OFFICERS Beth Price, Chair Brian Diamond, Vice Chair Laura Z. Wasserman, Vice Chair Phyllis Kupferstein, Secretary Gregory D. Fuss, Treasurer Tom Jacobson, GLAZA President

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Sandy Masuo EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Kait Hilliard, Tom Jacobson, Dan Keeffe, Dr. Jake Owens, Beth Schaefer, Eugenia Vasels, Denise M. Verret

ZOO PHOTOGRAPHER Tad Motoyama

ZO O V I E W

A ROARING SUCCESS BY THE NUMBERS BABY BOOM WARM WELCOME AT MAHALE MOUNTAINS

DESIGN & PRODUCTION Lisa Brink, The Brink Creative PRINTING LithoGraphix

ZOO-M IN

Members’ photo gallery

DONOR SPOTLIGHT

How the Los Angeles Zoo adapted to the unprecedented challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

BRINGING THE ZOO TO YOU

While we can’t welcome guests through our gates, we’ve been working to bring the Zoo to you through various digital platforms.

STEPPING UP

Compassionate Zoo staffers answer the call to serve the community during this time of crisis.

20 EXPERT PERSPECTIVES Our experts weigh in on the vital links

DEPARTMENTS

CHANGING TIMES

DR. MONICA METZDORF Walking for Wildlife

between human and animal health, and the Zoo’s role in combatting the illegal wildlife trade.

DIPLOMACY SPARKS CONSERVATION CONVERSATIONS

Zoo Director Denise Verret joins a delegation of zoo and aquarium professionals on a conservation tour of the UAE.

PROOFREADERS Laura Parada, Lynne Richter

S U MME R 2020

ON THE COVER Tough and resilient, ostriches belong to the group of flightless birds known as ratites—one of the most primitive of the modern bird families Photo by JAMIE PHAM

S U MME R 2020

MARK PENNING, BVSC

ZOO VIEW (ISSN 0276-3303) is published quarterly by the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association as a benefit to members. For information about membership, visit www.lazoo.org/membership

4 4 5 5

PHOTO EDITOR & PHOTOGRAPHER Jamie Pham

F E AT U R E S

JAMIE PHAM

LOS ANGELES ZOO COMMISSION Karen B. Winnick, President Bernardo Silva, Vice President Margot Armbruster Christopher Hopkins Daryl Smith Richard Lichtenstein, Ex-Officio Member

SUMMER 2020 VOLUME LIV // NUMBER 2

JAMIE PHAM

MAYOR OF LOS ANGELES Eric Garcetti

contents

SPECIAL ISSUE

23 ZO O V I E W

briefs BEASTLY BALL BY THE NUMBERS

WARM WELCOME AT MAHALE MOUNTAINS

The arrival of two new chimpanzees gave the Zoo something to pant-hoot about. Hope and Vindi arrived in February from the Tulsa Zoo; their transfer was a breeding recommendation from the Chimpanzee Species Survival Plan. After a month in quarantine, the newcomers were introduced to the rest of the troop at the Chimpanzees of Mahale Mountains habitat. The process went very smoothly, and the integrated troop now consists of 16 individuals.

IF YOU MISSED THE BALL watch the video at www.beastlyball.lazoo.org

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1,400

VIRTUAL SWAG BAG DOWNLOADS

165 AUCTION ITEMS

$300

WINNING BID FOR PRIZE PACK THAT INCLUDED A FOUR-PACK OF ANGEL SOFT TOILET PAPER AUTOGRAPHED BY JOEL MCHALE SU MME R 2020

JAMIE PHAM

ne of L.A.’s most highly anticipated fundraising events each year is our very own Beastly Ball. With the Zoo currently closed, a lot of thought went into re-imagining the Ball for a world of physical distancing. The answer? The first-ever virtual Beastly Ball. As with the traditional gala, this year’s event was a star-studded evening of fun and philanthropy. Actor-comedian Joel McHale hosted the livestream from the Zoo on Friday, May 15, Endangered Species Day. The event included exclusive musical performances by Dave Matthews and Brian Wilson, and video messages from dozens of celebrities, sports stars, and other special guests. Next year’s Beastly Ball honorees—naturalists Chris and Martin Kratt (known as the Kratt Brothers) and authors Barbara Natterson-Horowitz and Kathryn Bowers (Zoobiquity and Wildhood) also joined in the festivities with special video presentations. Staff shared inspiring conservation stories, and some of our ambassador animals got in the action, too. While several hundred people typically attend the Zoo’s safari-themed soiree, nearly 10,000 tuned in to the live broadcast—and the video has racked up thousands of additional views. GLAZA President Tom Jacobson comments, “We made the decision to take the Ball online only six weeks earlier, and hoped to generate $800,000 in revenues, but the result was beyond our wildest dreams with more than $1,000,000 in gifts and bids. I’m grateful for everyone’s incredible creativity and our donors’ outstanding generosity. Special thanks to Zoo Director Denise Verret, Beastly Ball Co-Chairs Beth Price, Tyler Kelley, and Brian Diamond; Vice President of Institutional Advancement Genie Vasels, who led the fundraising and video production; Melissa Grossenbacher, who produced the event; and our Marketing department for promoting the Beastly Ball in new and exciting ways.”

LIVE MUSICAL 2 PERFORMANCES

Photos by JAMIE PHAM

STEPHEN KNOOP

A Roaring Success

21,000+

TOTAL VIEWS

JAMIE PHAM

MI L LI O N DOLLARS >1 RAISED

Baby Boom pringtime always brings new life to the Zoo in the form of babies and hatchlings—and this year was no different. A male desert bighorn sheep (top) was born in April. Other recent births and hatchings include (left to right): a howler monkey, 25 fringed leaf frogs, a mandrill, and an Eastern bongo. Fewer than 100 Eastern bongos exist in the wild, where their habitat is severely fragmented.

LET’S BE SOCIAL! FOLLOW us @LAZoo on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TheLosAngelesZoo on YouTube SHARE your memories and photos on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook using #LAZoo

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ZO O V I E W

briefs BEASTLY BALL BY THE NUMBERS

WARM WELCOME AT MAHALE MOUNTAINS

IF YOU MISSED THE BALL watch the video at www.beastlyball.lazoo.org

ZO O V I E W

1,400

VIRTUAL SWAG BAG DOWNLOADS

165 AUCTION ITEMS

$300

WINNING BID FOR PRIZE PACK THAT INCLUDED A FOUR-PACK OF ANGEL SOFT TOILET PAPER AUTOGRAPHED BY JOEL MCHALE SU MME R 2020

JAMIE PHAM

LIVE MUSICAL 2 PERFORMANCES

Photos by JAMIE PHAM

STEPHEN KNOOP

A Roaring Success

21,000+

TOTAL VIEWS

JAMIE PHAM

MI L LI O N DOLLARS >1 RAISED

LET’S BE SOCIAL! FOLLOW us @LAZoo on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TheLosAngelesZoo on YouTube SHARE your memories and photos on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook using #LAZoo

S U MME R 2020

ZO O V I E W

MEMBER PHOTO GALLERY

ZOO-M IN

Opportunity Calls

SUB MIT YOUR PHOTOS To be considered for inclusion in future installments of Zoo-m In, submit your best images taken at the L.A. Zoo. No more than two images per member per month, please. Include your name in the file name for each photograph (e.g., Giraffe-John Smith). Do not send images that include people unless you will be able to provide a signed release from all parties pictured in the event your photo is selected for publication.

Like most GLAZA members nowadays, freelance photographer Arthur Bohlmann is missing the Zoo, especially his favorite residents—the African painted dogs. “Photographing them is usually my first priority,” he says, “if they aren’t sleeping!” Though he has a soft spot for canines, they’re not the only ones that catch Bohlmann’s eye—or his ears. On a Zoo visit in February, he was sitting in the aviary when a chukar partridge commanded his attention. “When I heard the partridge calling for its mate directly behind me, I was able to take my time and compose the shot.”

SUBMIT BY EMAIL photos@lazoo.org

LEFT PAGE A very vocal bird, the chukar partridge is named for the sound of its call. Photograph by: ARTHUR BOHLMANN RIGHT PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Chimpanzee by KRISTI CHESLEY; greater flamingo by TRACY CREW; bighorn sheep by ARTHUR BOHLMANN; West African crowned crane by BILL EDWARDS; Sumatran tiger by MICHAEL ELLIOTT; meerkat mob by GODFREY WONG

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MEMBER PHOTO GALLERY

ZOO-M IN

Opportunity Calls

SUBMIT BY EMAIL photos@lazoo.org

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Changing Times

Bear With Us

ANIMAL CARE

Throughout the closure, our animal residents have continued to receive the same high level of care that is standard at the Los Angeles Zoo. “Work for the veterinary and animal care teams goes on, nearly as usual,” reports Dr. Dominique Keller, Chief Veterinarian & Director of Animal Wellness Programs. While animal exams sometimes necessitate staff coming in close proximity to animals and each other, Keller says, “We practice social distancing as much as possible, and wear personal protective equipment (PPE). Face coverings have become the new look.” Animal transfers were put on hold when the Zoo closed. “As we get closer to reopening, we’ll look at resuming transfers for high priority Species Survival Plan recommendations,” says Director of Animal Programs Beth Schaefer. “For example, we’re slated to get a new Bali myna male for breeding. Because it would be added in with our other Bali mynas, it won’t be a drain on our budget or staff resources. And, because it’s one of the world’s most critically endangered bird

To help slow the spread of COVID-19, the Los Angeles Zoo has been closed to the public since March 13. Some animals, like American black bear Ranger, appear to be curious about the lack of guests. The normally nonchalant bear has been paying extra attention to staff lately—and vice versa. Photo by JAMIE PHAM

ZO O V I E W

DAPTATION. In the zoo world, this word is used to describe how

species adjust to changes in their environment over time. Today, we’re talking about how the Zoo itself is adapting to the unprecedented challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. To help slow the spread of the virus, we closed our gates to the public on March 13. In accordance with city and county guidelines, the Zoo has remained closed since that date. While essential employees— including animal care, veterinary, custodial, and grounds maintenance staff—continue to report for duty on zoo grounds, others have transitioned to telecommuting. Like organisms, organizations must also adapt in order to survive. In this issue of Zoo View, we’ll share some of the ways the Zoo has shifted gears, from how we protect our animals to how we engage with our community. And how—thanks to an outpouring of love and support from our members, donors, and community partners—we are working to offset the devastating ﬁnancial impact of the closure. It is not yet clear when we’ll be able to welcome you back to our campus or how this crisis will shape your future zoo experience. But be assured that as we lay the groundwork for reopening, the health and safety of our staff, guests, and animals remains our top priority.

CHANGING TIMES

by BRENDA SCOTT ROYCE

SU MME R 2020

species, we’re eager to expand our breeding program.” There are some new stars waiting in the wings at the Angela Collier World of Birds Theater. With the fan-favorite show on hiatus, the staff has been training new birds—including the majestic Steller’s sea eagle—to potentially take the stage when the Zoo reopens.

FOOD CHAIN

Zoo Nutritionist Emily Schwartz reports that food deliveries to the Commissary have been uninterrupted throughout the closure. “Our produce vendor, Sysco, has discontinued a few items we normally use, like dandelion greens,” she says. But never fear—Schwartz isn’t about to disappoint the reptiles who fancy the greens. “We have items we can substitute and potentially receive them from World Harvest Food Bank, which is still making two deliveries each week.”

ZO O V I E W

Changing Times

Bear With Us

ANIMAL CARE

ZO O V I E W

DAPTATION. In the zoo world, this word is used to describe how

CHANGING TIMES

by BRENDA SCOTT ROYCE

SU MME R 2020

FOOD CHAIN

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JAMIE PHAM

C HANGING TIM ES

PHOTO COURTESY OF KATHY FOGEL

JAMIE PHAM

HEARTFELT APPEAL JAMIE PHAM

KATHY FOGEL

JAMIE PHAM

those boxes! I know they get about 100 pounds of food for While the supply chain kept rolling, the Commissary was the troop every day. I can say, ‘That’s kale, that’s lettuce … short-staffed. Without volunteers, Schwartz needed more and I know exactly how many sweet potatoes are in hands on deck to help process deliveries and divvy that box!” up diets. So, several part-time employees “Because we normally work onfrom Guest Services and Learning & grounds, we’ve gotten to know all the Engagement were redeployed to the HELPING animals. So, it’s really cool seeing Commissary. “It’s been an eye-openHANDS which box is going to which secing experience, because I’ve never tion,” Pratte adds. “Sometimes done this type of work before,” says we joke that we’re sending a liteducation specialist Shelby Pratte. tle love with each box, because The temporary recruits Thanks to Commissary helpers Laura Barnard, AJ we’re picturing exactly which are not only providing critical Ferrara, Gloria Hernandez, Mariah Mendez, Becca animal it’s going to, and hoping assistance, they’re also learning Prater, Shelby Pratte, Leslie Rivas-Quijano, Jerethey enjoy the food that we’re about commissary operations my Saje, Mollie Samocha, and Kate Tucci-Share making them.” and the complexities of zoo (Learning & Engagement); Melissa Castellon, animal nutrition. This newfound Rozia Francis, Gustavo Gomez, Ignacio knowledge will no doubt come in Machuca, and Rhiann Ogata (Guest handy when they return to their FASHION STATEMENT Services) In the early days of the closure, staff regular jobs. “One of my roles, wore face masks and gloves when when we are open to the public, is working in proximity to potentially vuldoing the Chimp Chat—talking to guests nerable species, such as primates and big cats. when the chimpanzees get their lunch,” says Since then, new safety protocols have been implemented education specialist Becca Prater. “I used to say, ‘Oh, that require face masks for all employees on Zoo grounds, it looks like they have some veggies.’ But now, I’ve packed

and a temperature checkpoint for all staff prior to entering the Zoo. Once upon a time it might have been disconcerting to enter your workplace and see all your colleagues wearing face masks. But such scenes are the new normal. “It’s like a fashion show,” remarks Schaefer. “We keep commenting, ‘Oh, your mask is so cute, I love it! Where’d you get the one with the flamingos?’”

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VOLUNTEERS

When the Zoo closed in March, its corps of volunteers—more than 550 combined docents, student, and general volunteers—found themselves suddenly sidelined. Some quickly sought out other ways to support the Zoo. Kathy Fogel, Rita Lossett, and Kathy Corey began making cloth face masks, which they donated to Zoo staff. “Pull fabric from stash, wash, iron,

KIM GARCIA

cut, sew, repeat,” says Fogel. “That’s the basic process that makes me feel I can contribute in some small way to help out our amazing keepers and other Zoo employees who are keeping things going while we are staying safe at home.” On grounds, the absence of volunteers has been keenly felt. “We have grown to know many volunteers personally over the years; they are a part of our Zoo family,” says Senior Animal Keeper Danila Cremona. “We miss them and their tireless assistance, dedicated help, and extreme efforts to make our lives and the animals’ lives better.” Director of Volunteer Programs Kirin Daugharty and her staff and have remained in close contact with the volunteers, keeping them updated on Zoo news and sharing video tributes in lieu of an in-person appreciation event that had originally been scheduled for April’s National Volunteer Week.

In April, GLAZA launched a fundraising campaign to help offset revenue lost due to the pandemic. “Recognizing that times are tough for everyone, our expectations were modest,” says Genie Vasels, Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “So we were unprepared for the outpouring of support and messages of love and empathy that came flooding in.” More than 1,500 individuals have contributed so far—with gifts coming in at every level, from $5 to $5,000. Many are accompanied by personal notes. “My seven-year-old daughter is giving money from her savings,” wrote member Lourdes Ocana. “She says, ‘I donate my money for the animals so you can help them stay healthy and safe.’” Barbara Eikmeier, a grandmother from Kansas, donated the equivalent of “two adult and one child admission, two carousel rides, and $5 to feed the giraffes.” Since the pandemic prevented them from visiting in person, Eikmeier and her husband instead took their four-year-old granddaughter on a socially distant “zoo tour” over Facetime. “We arranged stuffed animals and beanie babies around our house in Kansas, and had her daddy do the same to her bedroom in Burbank,” she wrote. “P.S.: Pet the goats for us.”

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JAMIE PHAM

C HANGING TIM ES

PHOTO COURTESY OF KATHY FOGEL

HEARTFELT APPEAL JAMIE PHAM

VOLUNTEERS

S UM M ER 2 0 2 0

KIM GARCIA

cut, sew, repeat,” says Fogel. “That’s the basic process that makes me feel I can contribute in some small way to help out our amazing keepers and other Zoo employees who are keeping things going while we are staying safe at home.” On grounds, the absence of volunteers has been keenly felt. “We have grown to know many volunteers personally over the years; they are a part of our Zoo family,” says Senior Animal Keeper Danila Cremona. “We miss them and their tireless assistance, dedicated help, and extreme efforts to make our lives and the animals’ lives better.” Director of Volunteer Programs Kirin Daugharty and her staff have remained in close contact with the volunteers, keeping them updated on Zoo news and sharing video tributes in lieu of an in-person appreciation event that had originally been scheduled for April’s National Volunteer Week.

ZO O VIEW

C HANGING TIM ES

Zoo Life Marches On DATA COLLECTING

The Zoo’s Research Division undertakes observational studies aimed at increasing knowledge of animal behavior and improving wellbeing. Among the studies currently being carried out by Research staff is an investigation into the social dynamics of the Zoo’s meerkat mob.

CONSERVATION CONTINUES

There’s egg-citing news from two of the Zoo’s longstanding conservation programs. Eighteen California condor eggs were laid at the Zoo this breeding season—a record-breaking total that will potentially enable us to release more of these critically endangered birds to the wild. Our herpetology staff has also had unprecedented success breeding southern mountain yellow-legged frogs, with more than 4,000 eggs produced in 32 masses. The pandemic has spurred an increase in communication between zoos and other conservation organizations, Director of Conservation Jake Owens reports. “We’re in communication with our partners around the world, trying to figure out how to operate in this new world and how to be more impactful when we emerge from it. This crisis is a call to strengthen our resolve and expand our impact.”

C A R E TA K E R S CARRY ON

While many employees have transitioned to telecommuting, essential work continues on grounds throughout the Zoo, including animal care and conservation, grounds maintenance, and behavioral research. Photos by JAMIE PHAM

Thank you to the following corporate partners, whose generous support has

One silver lining to the closure has been the ability for the Construction staff to tackle repair projects without inconveniencing guests. They’ve replaced fencing in front of the American alligator exhibit, for example, and poured a new concrete pathway at the Elephants of Asia Cambodia Pavilion. Such work would normally require closure of the affected areas, impeding foot traffic and diminishing guests’ ability to view the animals.

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enabled us to bring the Zoo to you in innovative ways throughout the closure: First 5 LA, SoCal Honda Dealers, 99 Cents Only Stores, Welk Resorts, and New York Life Southern California. JAMIE PHAM

CONSTRUCTION ZONE

ZO O V I E W

C HANGING TIM ES

Zoo Life Marches On DATA COLLECTING

CONSERVATION CONTINUES

C A R E TA K E R S CARRY ON

Thank you to the following corporate partners, whose generous support has

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enabled us to bring the Zoo to you in innovative ways throughout the closure: First 5 LA, SoCal Honda Dealers, 99 Cents Only Stores, Welk Resorts, and New York Life Southern California. JAMIE PHAM

CONSTRUCTION ZONE

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BRINGING THE ZOO TO YOU

ENHANCED ENRICHMENT

While we can’t welcome guests through our gates, we’ve been working to bring the Zoo to you through our various digital platforms. Want to watch ocelot kitten Ninja romp around his habitat? (Yes, you really do.) Or Ayana the African painted dog energetically explore a stinky scented box? (Again, we know the answer is yes.) Head over to www.lazoo.org/zootoyou and you’ll also ﬁnd coloring books, at-home activities, and other fun surprises. GLAZA’s Marketing team swiftly pivoted to bring our previously scheduled Wild for the Planet event programming into the online arena. Puppet studio Swazzle, a perennially popular participant in the annual event, created a series of “Zoo-m Animal Chat” videos. Environmental superhero Ricky the Raccoon interviews L.A. Zoo-centric characters like Conrad, a super-chill California condor, and Monty, a southern mountain-yellow legged frog who’s hopping with attitude. The Zoo also partnered with artist Brian Kesinger, a 20year Disney Animation veteran, on a series of Facebook Live draw-alongs. In four weekly sessions, Kesinger instructed viewers at home how to draw endangered animals, including the peninsular pronghorn and our achingly adorable Western lowland gorilla baby, Angela. “Switching gears to ensure we continue to provide value and to engage with our community has been a challenge … but a fun one,” comments Kait Hilliard, GLAZA’s Vice President of Marketing and Communications. “Having the tools and talent to generate great content for people who are eager to connect with the Zoo has made the transition a rewarding effort. It is a blast to watch the comments during a livestream or on a video post and realize that the work we do is having an impact on people’s lives. That’s definitely motivating us to come up with new and different ideas.”

OLIVIA YUSKA

With the Zoo closed to the public, keepers are allowing ambassador animals the opportunity to explore spaces that would usually be occupied by guests. These previously unexamined spaces provide exciting enrichment opportunities for curious creatures like porcupine Pixy (shown here with Animal Keeper Madison Quintanar). Extra effort is also being made to ensure consistent socialization of ambassador animals. Staff members are encouraged to spend their breaks participating in Flamingo Mingles, for example, so that the ambassador flock remains comfortable with these interactions.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BRIAN KESINGER

Where Is Everyone?

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he animals know something’s up. After all, the presence of zoo guests during daylight hours is part of their normal routine. Many seem to miss the daily parade of people passing by. Humans can be enriching for animals, as fascinating to them as they are to us. “Every time I go on a walk in the Zoo since the closure, I’ve had a new interaction with the animals,” says Director of Conservation Jake Owens. “They are so much more inquisitive than usual.” On a recent stroll, Owens reported that the zebras seemed

especially curious, and “five of the pronghorn ran over as soon as they saw me.” GLAZA President Tom Jacobson shares a similar experience: “At one point all five giraffes stared at me as though expecting me to do something entertaining.” “They’re so interested in anyone who stops in front of their exhibit now,” adds Schaefer. “Even animals that we think never pay any attention to the public, like Ranger the black bear. He stands there, watching us, as if he’s saying, ‘Hey, what are you doing?’ And the African painted dogs—who

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usually sleep so much of the day—will be up on the rocks watching us, too.”

LEARNING & ENGAGEMENT

With the closure necessitating cancellation of the Zoo’s on-site educational programming—including camps, classes, overnights, and field trips—the Learning and Engagement staff began brainstorming new ways to engage the public. “Usually we connect people to nature at the Zoo, utilizing the resources that we have on site,” explains Youth and Interns

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Program Coordinator Anna Becker. “The challenge was figuring out how we can help connect people to nature at home.” The team recently launched a virtual L.A. Zoo field trip, available in English and Spanish on the Zoo’s website, and will soon be rolling out additional distance-learning activities.

WE MISS YOU!

The Zoo isn’t the same without our members. On-grounds staff are missing the energy and excitement generated

by guests—and the ability to share the animals they love with the public. “The Children’s Zoo is so quiet now,” says Senior Animal Keeper Kris Willis. “I really miss running into visitors who are regulars at the Contact Area and seeing their drawings, or seeing kids smiling as they interact with their favorite goat friends. Or walking by a group at Charlie the sloth’s exhibit when he’s awake—and getting to point out something really cool he’s doing that a lot of people don’t get to see because he sleeps so much!”

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C HANGING TIM ES

BRINGING THE ZOO TO YOU

ENHANCED ENRICHMENT

OLIVIA YUSKA

PHOTO COURTESY OF BRIAN KESINGER

Where Is Everyone?

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usually sleep so much of the day—will be up on the rocks watching us, too.”

LEARNING & ENGAGEMENT

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WE MISS YOU!

The Zoo isn’t the same without our members. On-grounds staff are missing the energy and excitement generated

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UP STEPPING COMMUNITY

by BRENDA SCOTT ROYCE

hen the L.A. Zoo first closed to the public on March 13, Catherine Cuellar and her colleagues on the Zoo’s Guest Services team found themselves in a curious position. “Because we are Guest Services,” she says, “and now we have no guests!” Members of the Learning and Engagement Team, who typically spend a good portion of their workday interacting with visitors, were in a similar position. No guests meant no Chimp Chats, no Elephant Care Demonstrations, no Animals Up Close presentations, and so on. Like so many other on-site programs, these activities were placed on indefinite hiatus. Soon, both teams transitioned to working mostly from home, with supervisors looking for innovative ways to make use of their talents from a distance.

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That’s when the call came.

On March 18, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti signed an order activating the City’s Disaster Service Workers (DSW) program, and requests went out throughout City departments—including the Zoo—for employees who were willing and able to serve their community during this time of crisis. At the time of their hiring, every L.A. City employee signs an oath to serve as a DSW in the event of an emergency. Though they take the pledge in earnest, for many it’s a theoretical exercise, a “what if” scenario they doubt will ever actually come to pass. If an emergency were to arise, most presumed it would be something more predictable than a global pandemic. “I one-hundred percent

thought it would happen one day,” says Visitor Engagement Coordinator Rachel Helfing, “but that the disaster would be an earthquake.” “I remember signing the oath,” says Guest Services staff member Charley Terrazas. “My father is a City worker, too, and when the Northridge earthquake happened in 1994, he was sent out to hand out food and supplies. So I already knew what working for the City entails—and what I signed up for.”

ANSWERING THE CALL To date, 32 Zoo staffers have taken on DSW assignments, serving with either (and in many cases, both) Project Roomkey and the Emergency Senior Meals Hotline. Project Roomkey is a statewide initiative launched by Governor Gavin Newsom in partnership with the Federal

Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The program has converted hotels and motels in L.A. county into temporary housing for homeless individuals at high risk of contracting COVID-19. Mayor Garcetti’s Emergency Senior Meals Hotline is a temporary program that delivers free meals to L.A. seniors sheltering in place. Everytable, an L.A.-based social enterprise and restaurant chain, provides the meals for the home delivery program as well as for Project Roomkey guests and staff. The meals hotline workers telecommute from their homes, fielding phone calls and helping to enroll seniors in the service. Oftentimes the callers live outside the program area, in which case they are directed to alternative resources that may be able to provide assistance. Calls come in many languages,

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requiring the operators to loop in a translator in order to complete the enrollment process. The staff received training on the fly, with procedures being fine-tuned daily for what was, after all, a brand-new program. “The phrase they used in the training video was ‘We’re learning how to fly the plane while we’re building it,’” says Nick Gutierrez, the Zoo’s Immersive Experiences Coordinator. Without exception, the Zoo’s hotline crew adapted to the rapidly evolving circumstances and found the experience to be far more rewarding than what one might expect from the typical call-center type of job. “At first it seemed like it would just be providing information, but it’s so much more,” says Gutierrez. “One of my first calls came from a woman who lived alone and had no support of any kind, so when she saw the hotline

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number broadcast on television, she really leaned into that support. I was able to enroll her in the program, and by the end of the call, she was overwhelmed with gratitude.” “It’s pretty emotional,” adds Guest Services’ Patrick Betzner. “Hearing the desperation in people’s voices when they ask, ‘When are they coming, when are they coming?’ You just try to reassure them and get them through the process as quickly as possible so they can get the help they need.” “I talked to some people who had no meals coming in, they had major illnesses that prevented them from leaving their home, and this was their last resort,” Terrazas says. “I feel fortunate to be able to do this kind of work. It’s not a lot—I mean, I’m just filling out applications online and providing information, but at least I’m doing something to help.”

ZO O V I E W

UP STEPPING COMMUNITY

by BRENDA SCOTT ROYCE

ZO O V I E W

That’s when the call came.

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L.A. ZOO DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS “These individuals have answered the Mayor’s call and are representing the Zoo as Disaster Service Workers with courage, passion, and pride. They are serving the City’s most vulnerable populations, working long hours and varied shifts, in environments that can be considered outside of one’s comfort zone. I am humbled at their dedication and selflessness in this trying time. It shows the depth of humanity and empathy that this crisis calls for.” —Denise Verret, CEO and Zoo Director GUEST SERVICES Alejandra Carranza Chavez Andrew Seja Andy Escobar Carolyn Shirk Catherine Cuellar Charley Terrazas Dillon Butler Hector Arce Jonathan Vichaidit Joseph Cortez Maricela Garcia Melissa Castellon Patrick Betzner Rozia Francis LEARNING & ENGAGEMENT Anna Becker Cassandra Baron Coral Barreiro Elise Lolli-Bregoff Gloria Hernandez Holly Tavris Kate Tucci-Share Laura Barnard Mariah Mendez Maura Messerly Nick Gutierrez Rachel Bailey Rachel Helfing Renae Cotero Rosalio Rubio Shayna Foreman Shereen Bernard Sowgand Baharloo

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DONOR SPOTLIGHT

Los Angeles Zoo “I was particularly excited about this assignment because I love having one-on-one conversations with people,” says Manager of Visitor Engagement Maura Messerly. “Getting this chance to speak with so many different people from around the city, from different walks of life, who are experiencing difficult life circumstances, and being the person who can help connect them to resources is really meaningful.”

FRESH PERSPECTIVES

At Project Roomkey locations, DSW duties include serving meals, restocking refrigerators, and cleaning and disinfecting common areas. The prospect of working out in the community, while most citizens are being urged to shelter in place, was concerning for staff. “At first I was a little nervous about it,” says Guest Services Attendant Hector Arce. “But once I got there and saw how they operated, and all the safety methods set in place for us, I enjoyed it very much.” Helping some of the City’s most vulnerable residents put things into perspective for the Zoo crew. “It makes you really think about what you have, and just be thankful,” says Cuellar. “I have it good, so I want to help everybody else.” Sometimes it’s the little things that make a big impression. “I brought coffee to people on my first DSW shift,” says Helfing. “And it was like you were bringing them gold. Some of them confided to me that they had not had a cup of coffee in nearly a year, so a small packet of instant coffee with the powdered creamer was a really big deal for them. Or having a choice in what to eat, that has been really big for them as well.”

Part-time Guest Services Attendant Jonathan Vichaidit says that getting to know shelter residents like 80-yearold Rosa, who lost everything after the death of her husband, opened his eyes to the plight of the homeless—and the prejudices they face. “People have a lot of misconceptions about the homeless,” he says. “They don’t understand what hardships they are going through, or what caused them to be homeless in the first place. They make hasty generalizations about who these people are, but they don’t really know them.” The residents have definitely made an impression on Guest Services Lead Andrew Seja. “Every day when I pass out meals, I will have a nice chat with Margaret about how the weather was, and what shows she’s watching that day. I’ll also talk with Greg about everything he found on his walk and where to take my recyclables to get the most out of it.” Seja adds that his Zoo badge has been a great conversation starter. “Everyone who sees my Zoo ID card will ask what my favorite animal is, and if the animals are all right since the closure. I let them know our animal care staff is on grounds keeping our animals healthy and ready to meet everyone once we open again.”

COMMUNITY TIES

Their DSW tasks might seem a world away from their typical Zoo duties, but “it’s all related,” says Youth and Interns Program Coordinator Anna Becker. “The Zoo is a resource for the City, so now we’re finding different ways to meet the needs of our community.” Visitor and Engagement

Coordinator Shayna Foreman agrees: “Even though it’s a totally different type of work that we’re doing, it feels very much like it’s part of that same ethos that we’re already working toward at the Zoo. It’s just engaging a different chunk of the community—and engaging in a different way than we usually do.” When they’re not taking on DSW shifts, most of these employees are still performing tasks for the Zoo, either remotely or in person, depending on their role and the needs of their department. Others have been redeployed to the Zoo’s commissary, helping to keep the Zoo’s animals fed (see page 10). Though they look forward to a return to normalcy, the staffers I spoke to are all grateful for the experience of serving as disaster service workers. It has enriched their sense of purpose, strengthened their bond as coworkers, and boosted their pride in the Zoo and the City of Los Angeles. “I’m happy I got to do something to help our city,” says Guest Services Attendant Andy Escobar. “It made me feel like I had a direct impact in helping to stop the rapid spread of COVID-19.” “I feel proud to be working for an institution that is really welcoming and serves everyone in the community,” adds Cuellar. Vichaidit reflects, “There’s a quote by Winston Churchill that I’ve been holding onto through this whole pandemic: ‘We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.’ This job not only gives me a living, but it also gives me a life. It gives me something to work toward, and it lets me be part of something bigger.”

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Aquarium of the Pacific

Walking for Wildlife

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

by BRENDA SCOTT ROYCE IN EARLY MAY, PEDIATRIC UROLOGIST MONICA METZDORF WALKED from the Los Angeles Zoo to the Aquarium of the Pacific to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park— roughly 130 miles—to raise funds for the animals at all three institutions. “It was hatched on a whim,” Dr. Metzdorf says of the epic eight-day journey. The inspiration came at a time when she felt bombarded by bad news. Between the pandemic and politics, the headlines were all depressing. “I wondered, is there any good news?” Then her twin sister shared the heartwarming story of Captain Tom Moore, a British veteran who pledged to raise money for the National Health Service by walking 100 laps around his garden by his 100th birthday. Moore’s quest captured hearts worldwide and raised more than 30 million dollars. Closer to home, another news story weighed heavily on Metzdorf’s mind. “There was a piece in the Los Angeles Times about the plight of zoos during the pandemic,” she says. “It talked about what it costs to run a zoo and feed the animals, and how the rev-

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enue generated by admission sales covers a sizeable percentage of that—but with the lockdown, it wasn’t coming in anymore.” Prior to medical school, Metzdorf studied wildlife and fish conservation in college. Now a GLAZA member, the Glendale resident is a frequent L.A. Zoo visitor. She has a soft spot for Reggie the American alligator, whom she has sponsored through the ADOPT program. “So, when I heard the story of this little old man pushing his walker around his garden, I thought, ‘I should do something for zoos.’” Though she’s fit, Metzdorf says she’s not much of a walker. “I’ve never run a 10k—or even a 5k.” But once she made up her mind, that was it. At 6 a.m. on May 9—about two weeks after reading the news stories that inspired her—she set out on foot from the L.A. Zoo parking lot. The first day, she tackled the longest leg of her journey, walking from the Zoo to the aquarium in Long Beach. Metzdorf had a pit crew of sorts. Her husband Bill drove the route in an RV (which served as a mobile rest stop), and her twin

sister in Switzerland posted frequent updates to her blog (docwalks4animals.com). She suffered a few blisters and shin splints along the way, but says, “The emotional support of friends and family cheering me on pumped me up and made my feet feel lighter.” As days passed, word of her incredible journey spread. By the time she arrived at the Safari Park on May 16, she’d raised $12,000 dollars. Donations are still coming in, and Dr. Metzdorf is urging people to pay it forward and find creative ways to support their local zoo or aquarium. The trip wasn’t entirely without roadblocks. At one point she had to backtrack several miles because of a gate closure at Camp Pendleton. But overall, she has no complaints. “I think on my death bed, I’m going to look back and say this is the coolest thing I ever did.” “While many of us have started daily walks to keep fit during Safer at Home, Monica walked with an even greater purpose, gathering friends and support for the animals at three great Southern California wildlife conservation organizations,” says GLAZA President Tom Jacobson. “I enjoyed texting with her during this incredible journey and look forward to welcoming her back to the L.A. Zoo as one of our heroes!”

ZO O V I E W

DONOR SPOTLIGHT

FRESH PERSPECTIVES

COMMUNITY TIES

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Aquarium of the Pacific

Walking for Wildlife

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

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ZO O V I E W

EXPERT

EXPERT PERSPECTIVE

JAMIE PHAM

TAD MOTOYAMA

PERSPECTIVE

DR. DOMINIQUE KELLER

BETH SCHAEFER General Curator & Director of Animal Programs, L.A. Zoo

Chief Veterinarian & Director

Co-Chair, Animal Care and Welfare Advisory Group, Gorilla

of Animal Wellness Programs,

Rehabilitation and Conservation Education (GRACE) Center

L.A. Zoo

Co-Chair, Workflow & Confiscations Subcommittee, Southern

Diplomate of the American

California Wildlife Confiscations Network

College of Zoological Medicine JA

A PH

Ph.D. in Veterinary Physiology, Texas A&M University Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University

ZO·ON·O·SIS AND THE ZOO

ver the past few months, you may have added a new word to your vocabulary, zoonosis. It’s a term familiar to veterinarians and public health officials, but one you might not have heard in casual conversation—until now. Deriving its root from the Greek words zoon meaning “animal” and nosos meaning “disease,” a zoonosis is a disease in animals that can be transmitted to humans. Given that I work in a zoo, it seems appropriate to go over what zoonosis means, and how it relates to the current pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 (“severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2”), and the associated disease syndrome in people known as COVID-19.

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To add another word to your vocabulary, it’s worth noting that there is a complementary term, zooanthroponosis, which as you can probably guess is a disease that is transmissible from humans to animals. It’s probably better termed “reverse zoonosis” since it’s the opposite of zoonosis. The current worldwide coronavirus pandemic, as life altering as it has been, has resulted in more exposure to the world of medical and veterinary terminology for all of us. Why is this relevant? It matters because with all the information that has come out in the news and social media, we’ve all gotten an education in the tight links between human and animal health. While we don’t know exactly what species this virus originated in, it appears that it may be a bat virus. As humans encroach more into wildlife habitat or take animals

from the wild to market, the inevitable happens: Viruses that are innocuous in their native hosts become zoonotic diseases in non-native hosts. When the virus in question is particularly contagious, and its new host is as well-traveled and widespread as humans are, the groundwork is laid for a pandemic. Coronaviruses as a group are not uncommon in many mammals. Most of the time they cause disease symptoms only in the species they are adapted to, and minor or no signs of illness when they cross over into other animals or people. The SARSCoV-2 virus is different in ways we don’t fully understand yet, but it’s important to understand that the emergence of this zoonotic disease is more linked to how we as humans interact with wildlife inappropriately and less about animals spreading disease. Since SARS-CoV-2 is a novel zoonotic disease, there is much we don’t know yet about which animal species are susceptible and what symptoms an infected animal might show. News

from the Bronx Zoo in April that non-domestic cats such as lions and tigers had tested positive for the virus (and that some even had similar clinical signs to people) was a reminder that reverse zoonosis may be a bigger concern than zoonosis for those of us working in zoos. To reduce the risk of infection in both directions, we are diligently using PPE, limiting access to mammals to essential personnel, and maintaining social distancing to the best of our ability when working with our animals. What does this mean for us going forward? Ironically, as we have all learned to practice social distancing, in some ways this pandemic has brought us closer together at the Zoo, as we unite to keep each other and our animals safe. We will learn many lessons from this pandemic—and come out stronger for it.

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SAFE HAVEN

nbeknownst to many Angelenos, Los Angeles has the dubious distinction of being a hub for the illegal wildlife trade. Between LAX and the Port of Los Angeles, there are many opportunities for wildlife trafficking. The Los Angeles Zoo has a history of assisting local and state agencies with confiscation and placement of illegally held and trafficked wildlife, including many endangered species. In 2018, the Wildlife Trafficking Alliance (WTA) and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) joined forces to combat wildlife trafficking. A platinum supporter of the WTA, the Los Angeles Zoo is on the frontline of this fight. The Zoo has assisted Los Angeles Animal Control and the California Department of Fish & Wildlife (CDFW) with confiscations ranging from endangered parrots transported in boxes labeled “chickens” to highly

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venomous cobras and scorpions being smuggled inside stuffed animals. Over the years, we’ve provided a safe haven to many confiscated animals, including Reggie, the American alligator famously dumped in a lake at a city park. CDFW is a law enforcement agency. They share the Zoo’s values of saving animals from extinction, but they have a different set of skills. They know how to make a bust but not how to handle venomous reptiles or sensitive and traumatized songbirds. That’s what makes the Los Angeles Zoo a critical partner in stemming the tide of illegal wildlife trafficking—and a valued member of a new task force created by WTA. The Southern California Wildlife Confiscations Network is working to streamline the handling of confiscated wildlife in order to get the animals to a safe place with expert care as quickly as possible. That way, CDFW can carry out its law enforcement duties without the added burden of trying to care for exotic animals.

ENDING ILLEGAL WILDLIFE TRADE is vital to protecting both humans and animals—and the stakes have never been greater.

LEARN MORE AT wildlifetraffickingalliance.org

J A M IE

ZO O V I E W

PHAM

EXPERT

EXPERT PERSPECTIVE

JAMIE PHAM

TAD MOTOYAMA

PERSPECTIVE

DR. DOMINIQUE KELLER

BETH SCHAEFER General Curator & Director of Animal Programs, L.A. Zoo

Chief Veterinarian & Director

Co-Chair, Animal Care and Welfare Advisory Group, Gorilla

of Animal Wellness Programs,

Rehabilitation and Conservation Education (GRACE) Center

L.A. Zoo

Co-Chair, Workflow & Confiscations Subcommittee, Southern

Diplomate of the American

California Wildlife Confiscations Network

College of Zoological Medicine JA

A PH

Ph.D. in Veterinary Physiology, Texas A&M University Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University

ZO·ON·O·SIS AND THE ZOO

ZO O V I E W

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SAFE HAVEN

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ENDING ILLEGAL WILDLIFE TRADE is vital to protecting both humans and animals—and the stakes have never been greater.

LEARN MORE AT wildlifetraffickingalliance.org

J A M IE

ZO O V I E W

PHAM

EXPERT PERSPECTIVE

VOICE

JAKE OWENS

Diplomacy Sparks Conservation Conversations

DR. JAKE OWENS Director of Conservation, L.A. Zoo Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences, Drexel University

by BRENDA SCOTT ROYCE

Member, Reintroduction Specialist Group, IUCN Species Survival Commission

MUCH LIKE BIODIVERSITY ITSELF, CONSERVATION RELIES ON RELATIONSHIPS. So, when Los Angeles Zoo CEO and

Founding Member, Human-Wildlife Interactions Working Group, IUCN Species Survival Commission Former Manager of Research and Development, Giant Panda Reintroduction Program, Chengdu Panda Base, Chengdu, China

ONE HEALTH, ONE PLAN

he COVID-19 pandemic is the most recent and, perhaps, convincing example of the interconnectedness of human health, economics, biodiversity conservation, and environmental protection. Initial reports indicate that the SARS-CoV-2 virus likely originated in a wildlife market, the conditions of which promote novel disease emergence and have been linked to other viral zoonotic diseases. In addition to the wildlife trade, other human actions such as habitat destruction and climate change also shift the ways animals interact with each other and with people, and thereby reduce the naturally evolved systems that limit disease emergence and spread. Despite the strong rela-

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tionships between healthcare, wildlife conservation, and environmental protection, these efforts have largely been managed independently. Fortunately, the need for holistic solutions has gained traction in recent years. Healthcare and conservation are becoming increasingly unified—and the Los Angeles Zoo has been at the forefront of these efforts.

One Health Approach: An interdisciplinary approach to health that recognizes the interdependency of human health and natural systems In 1999, the Los Angeles Zoo established a Medical Advisory Board, under the leadership of our then Chief Veterinarian Dr. Charles Sedgwick and former Zoo Commissioner Dr. David Bruyette. A member of the advisory board since 2004, Dr. Barbara Natterson-Horowitz introduced the Zoo to the emerging

One Health Initiative. Inspired by her extensive work at the L.A. Zoo, Dr. Natterson-Horowitz developed the concept of “Zoobiquity,” which launched a series of conferences aimed at fostering communication between human and veterinary medical specialists. At Zoobiquity conferences, medical professionals learn how treating breast cancer in a tiger can help physicians better treat breast cancer in a kindergarten teacher, for example, or how understanding separation anxiety in a high-strung Sheltie can help an anxious child struggling with his first days of school. Today, the Zoo’s Medical Advisory Board boasts a roster of 55 professionals from the fields of human and veterinary medicine who consult with our stellar Animal Health team to support the 1,300 animals in our care.

One Plan Approach: Combines conservation planning for populations in the wild and those under human care to maximize beneﬁts to the species

The L.A. Zoo was part of early applications—and a key example of the success—of the One Plan approach through its participation in the California Condor Recovery Program (CCRP). In response to the impending extinction of this species due to lead poisoning, environmental contamination, and other threats, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, L.A. Zoo, and San Diego Zoo began a species recovery program in 1980s. Rooted in a One Plan approach, the CCRP has integrated careful management of breeding populations in human care at zoo facilities to restore genetically healthy wild populations through reintroductions, while also reducing threats condors face throughout their range. From a low of zero animals in the wild and 27 in human care, the population has increased to more than 530 today, with roughly half of those in the wild. This is a global lesson of the success of a One Plan Approach to conservation—and one of many examples of its application at the L.A. Zoo.

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Director Denise Verret was invited to join a delegation of U.S. zoo and aquarium professionals on a conservation-based tour of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), she embraced the opportunity. The UAE is a young country, formed in 1971 when seven emirates—or sheikdoms—unified upon gaining their independence from Britain. Today, the UAE is known for its wealth and technological innovation. What is less known about this Arab nation is that conservation is among its core values, as intrinsic to its culture as the sleek skyscrapers that dominate the skylines of its biggest cities, Dubai and Abu Dhabi. “Before the country was developed, they were a nomadic people who lived off the land,” Verret says. “So they feel a tremendous responsibility to give back to the land and the natural resources. They invest heavily in wildlife conservation, research, and environmental preservation.” The two-week tour took place in February, before the pandemic put a halt to most travel. The delegation— which included representatives from San Diego Zoo Global, Sea World, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)—visited cultural landmarks as well as centers for conservation and research. It was a whirlwind of museums and mosques, palaces and preserves, with the unifying goal of information-sharing and relationship-building among the delegates and their hosts. For Verret, seeing hundreds of Arabian oryx roaming the vast open dunes of the Al Maha Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve was especially moving due to the Zoo’s involvement in the species’ recovery. Once widespread across the Arabian peninsula, the oryx was hunted to the brink of extinction in the early 1970s. The L.A. Zoo

launched a successful breeding program and in 1978 transported eight oryx to Israel—the first of many such efforts by zoos to return the species to its traditional desert habitat. After decades of collaborative efforts between zoos and conservation organizations, the species was upgraded from “extinct in the wild” to vulnerable—an historic achievement of which the Zoo is proud to have played a part. The delegation also met with representatives of the Mohammed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund, which granted funding to the L.A. Zoo in 2010 for its peninsular pronghorn recovery efforts. “It is one of the most prestigious conservation funds in the world, and because they receive about 1600 grant requests each year, it’s extremely difficult to get an award.” Other stops included the Sea Turtle Rescue at the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah Aquarium, the Breeding Center for Endangered Arabian Wildlife in Sharjah, the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, the stunning Al Ain Zoo, and a private falconry center belonging to the Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed. Verret says the once-in-a-lifetime adventure sparked conversations that she hopes will lead to future collaboration. It also reinforced her belief in the power of the zoo community to ignite change. “I’m more committed than ever to leverage the Los Angeles Zoo and its resources to inspire our community, our donors, our elected officials, our staff, docents, and volunteers that we have such an important purpose—not only saving animals from extinction but also saving this planet,” she says. “That can seem like a daunting purpose—especially now with so many things going on in the world—but it doesn’t take a lot to make a difference. It doesn’t take millions of dollars; it doesn’t necessarily take physically getting out and doing something. It takes understanding, it takes compassion, it takes empathy, it takes valuing the little things that one can do to save this planet and to save wildlife.”

Above: Photo by NICK KHAZAL; Below: “The Al Maha reserve had 800 Arabian oryx,” Verret says, “and it was heart-stopping to see them in large groups spread out in this vast, open setting.” Photo by MARK PENNING, BVSC

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ZO O V I E W

EXPERT PERSPECTIVE

VOICE

JAKE OWENS

Diplomacy Sparks Conservation Conversations

DR. JAKE OWENS Director of Conservation, L.A. Zoo Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences, Drexel University

by BRENDA SCOTT ROYCE

Member, Reintroduction Specialist Group, IUCN Species Survival Commission

MUCH LIKE BIODIVERSITY ITSELF, CONSERVATION RELIES ON RELATIONSHIPS. So, when Los Angeles Zoo CEO and

ONE HEALTH, ONE PLAN

ZO O V I E W

One Plan Approach: Combines conservation planning for populations in the wild and those under human care to maximize beneﬁts to the species

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