A DIGITAL PUBLICATION FOR THE MEMBERS OF
THE PIT TSBURGH ZOO & PPG AQUARIUM
Orphaned Sea Otter Pup INSIDE THE ANIMAL CARE CENTER SUMMER 2012
WILD IMAGINATION.
For nearly 130 years, PPG has been bringing great things to the Pittsburgh region, such as funding to help sustain our world-class zoo and aquarium. In fact, this year we’re celebrating 10 years of making a splash together and we’re looking forward to many more! To learn more wild stuff about our company, visit ppg.com.
FROM THE PRESIDENT
W
e are thrilled to introduce our very first entirely digital version of ZooExplorer. Making this publication digital could not be more in line with all of our initiatives. It gives us a way to bring you fascinating information on the
exciting news and events happening at the Zoo, in the wild, and as a part of our international conservation efforts, while respecting the environment and distributing this publication in the greenest way possible. At the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, we have many important goals that drive the work we do every day. Helping people learn about some of the world’s most diverse creatures allows us to educate individuals and builds appreciation and respect for the biodiversity on Earth. In this edition, you will learn about some of these amazing species and how they came to call our Zoo home. This includes the heartwarming moments of early life for our newborn sea lion pup and her mom, Zoey, and the exciting arrival of two young komodo dragons who traveled all the way from the Prague Zoo. We also participate in many conservation projects and green initiatives that support sustainability and the preservation of the world in which we live. These initiatives each serve independent purposes, but often work in conjunction with one another to promote one common goal: to make certain that the Earth remains a suitable home for all life. Making ZooExplorer digital also opens new doors for delivering in-depth and interactive content to the reader. In the digital format, we can provide more stunning photography and exclusive video content, as well as giving you the option to comment on interesting topics and share your favorite articles. This edition features our orphaned sea otter pup, who was rescued after being beached on the coastline in Port Heiden, Alaska. In addition to reading about his incredible story, you can see more pictures from his rescue. You will also find an article that contains a wealth of information about our fabulous new, state-of-the-art Animal Care Center. The new digital format of ZooExplorer allows us to include bonus content within the article, such as images from an array of various procedures that have been performed since the facility opened; and a video of a recent procedure that was conducted at the ACC. We hope you enjoy this new, green way of presenting ZooExplorer and the bonus content and interactive features that are now possible, truly a positive step in bridging our living and learning with the natural world.
Dr. Barbara Baker President & CEO
Summer 2012 Zoo Explorer | 01
Operated by the Zoological Society of Pittsburgh
Dr. Barbara Baker, President & CEO Board of Directors
Beverlynn Elliott, Chair Richard Kalson, Vice Chair Geoffrey Stillson, Secretary
This photo of Angeline was taken on July 9, 2008 - the day she was born. On September 16, come see how much she’s grown and celebrate the birthdays of the entire herd at our Macy’s Elephant Day celebration.
Leonard F. Bach Courtney Borntraeger Glenn E. Bost, II Dorothy Boyer Louise Brown Howard Bruschi Tacy M. Byham, Ph.D. Carol B. Caroselli Gary Claus G. Henry Cook Jack Demos Patrick Dowd, Ph.D. Colette Dugan Joan Ellenbogen William Fallon Jack Friedman Karen Roche Galey, M.D. Edward Goncz Frank Horrigan Lorna H. Irvin Julius Jones Rebecca Keevican Thomas Kublack Michael LaRocco Patrick Loughney Kenneth McCrory Kristine McGinley Peggy McKnight Leslie Merrill John Miclot Henry Mordoh Melissa Murphy David Newell John Payne, DVM, MS David Porges Rita Randall Mayor Luke Ravenstahl J. Eric Renner Donald Rhoten F. Brooks Robinson, Sr. Jill Sandilla Sara Scaife James C. Stalder Douglas Stirling Susette Stone Becky Torbin Gregory Weingart Sally Wiggin Stuart Wise Robert T. Woodings, III
Contents
Volume 15 Number 1 pittsburghzoo.org
COVER STORY
05 Sea Otter Pup Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium One Wild Place Pittsburgh, PA 15206-1178
How this orphaned sea otter pup found a new home
05
pg.
pittsburghzoo.org Dr. Barbara Baker, President & CEO
Published by the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
ARTICLES 15
Inside the Animal Care Center How the Zoo is providing world-class medical care for its globally diverse population.
ZOO EXPLORER Review Committee
22
Bouncing Baby Girl
Raymond E Bamrick, Lead Keeper
Editor: Laura Gething Creative Director: Paul A. Selvaggio Design & Production: Lauren Armstrong
15
pg.
Contributing Photographer: Paul A. Selvaggio
Lori Elder, Membership Services Manager Michelle Farmerie, Keeper Henry Kacprzyk, Curator, Reptiles & Kids Kingdom Paul Moylett, Asst. Curator of Aquatic Life
FEATURED DEPARTMENTS
Sarah Poweska, Asst. Director of Development Mark Reardon, Asst. Curator of Conservation Education Kathy Suthard, Lead Keeper Jaime Szorszorek, Director of Marketing & PR Karen Vacco, Asst. Curator of Mammals Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium Docent Council President: Bill Meoni
22
pg.
01
From the President
06
News & Views
11
Calendar of Events
20
Kid’s Page
Fun & Games Hey Henry!
25
From the Education Department
Vice President: Suzanne Lebanik Secretary: Marlene Goldstein Treasurer: Louis Bruno Memberships and Subscriptions: Subscription to ZooExplorer is included in every Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium Membership. Memberships begin at $60.
An accredited institution of the American Zoo and Aquarium Association.
The Pittsburgh Zoo is supported in part through funding from the Allegheny Regional Asset District and PPG Industries.
A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll-free within Pennsylvania 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement. ZooExplorer is the online magazine of the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium.
ZooExplorer Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium One Wild Place, Pittsburgh, PA 15206-1178 © 2012 Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
Summer 2012 Zoo Explorer | 03
HOW THIS ORPHANED SEA OTTER PUP FOUND A NEW HOME
04 | Zoo Explorer Summer 2012
Rescue & Relocation Story By Jaclyn Mazza Marine Mammal Keeper
Photography By Paul A. Selvaggio
On March 12th, 2012, residents of Port Heiden, Alaska spotted a young northern sea otter huddled next to his deceased mother on a windy beach. The residents called the stranded marine mammal hotline, and rehabilitation specialists from the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) where they received caring instructions for the young orphan’s overnight stay. The pup was transferred to the ASLC the following day for further care. He was in good physical condition, and he was in good hands. ASLC staff and volunteers worked around the clock bottle feeding the pup a nutrient rich sea otter formula every three hours and assisting him with grooming his fur just like his mother would have done. As the young orphan settled into a routine in his new surroundings, plans for his longterm care were being carefully considered. Because he would require extensive human care during the coming months, the pup was not a candidate to be released back into the wild. The month-old pup would need a permanent home in a zoo or aquarium, and that is how the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium became involved. From the moment the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium agreed to provide a home for the orphan, plans to create a sea otter nursery at Water’s Edge were put into action. Sea otter pups have different environmental requirements from their adult counterparts, so a new space with a shallow pool, plenty of dry resting space, and low ambient temperature had to be constructed. In the meantime, the zoo sent some much needed assistance, in the form of an extra set of hands, to Alaska. On April 4 I boarded a plane for the long flight to Anchorage, Alaska. The Alaska Sea Life Center sits on beautiful Resurrection Bay, in the town of Seward, Alaska. The Seward Highway is the only road leading in and out of this small town on the Kenai Peninsula. After the seven-hour flight to Anchorage, I hopped on a bus for the two and half hour ride to Seward. It was a bumpy ride, but a beautiful journey. The goal of my visit was two-fold: to provide the ASLC staff some relief by covering as many eight hour pup care shifts as possible, while learning the specifics of caring for a sea otter neonate. This would be the first time anyone at the Pittsburgh Zoo cared for such a young sea otter. I would be there for 15 days, the amount of time necessary to build the sea otter nursery, and coordinate the pup’s transportation to Pittsburgh. I spent my first shift at the Alaska SeaLife Center learning the ropes of pup care from the center’s staff. It turns out that sea otter pup care isn’t really all that complicated; it’s just a lot of work. They showed me how to groom the pup’s fur, make sea otter formula, prepare his bottles, disinfect the nursery, and wash and dry the dozens of grooming towels used daily. I was told that working a sea otter pup shift is all about time management, and I found that to be absolutely true. The very next shift I was on my own. My two weeks in Alaska flew by. As the pup grew bigger and stronger, we gave him access to larger pools and an outside play area. Sea otter pups have a special fur coat that makes continued on page 9 Summer 2012 Zoo Explorer | 05
News & Views
New Interactive Exhibit in the PPG Aquarium New Komodo Dragons Arrive Two young Komodo dragons were welcomed into the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium family this summer. Both dragons came from the Prague Zoo, where they were hatched. They are both two years old, between 58 to 60 inches in length, and weigh about ten pounds. They still have quite a bit of growing to do, though. Komodo dragons are the world’s largest lizards, growing up to ten feet in length and weighing up to 300 pounds. They are an endangered species with less than 5,000 left in the wild. Although they can be difficult to tell apart based on their physical appearances alone, their personalities are quite different and help to define them as individuals. One dragon is curious and likes to investigate the surroundings while the other dragon is more cautious and likes to look around before making any moves. Recently, most of their days have been spent acclimating to their new home, getting to know the keepers, and learning more about each other. Keepers have been working with them so that they can voluntarily participate in weigh-ins as well as come inside from the outside yard by themselves. This is a helpful skill for the dragons to have since, despite their short legs and stout appearance, they can run at speeds up to 11 miles per hour. If you are planning a visit to the Zoo, be sure to stop by the Komodo dragon habitat in the Asian Forest and say hello to these lovely individuals.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
06 | Zoo Explorer Summer 2012
The PPG Interactive Exhibit in the PPG Aquarium has undergone an impressive renovation. Now featuring cutting-edge digital and interactive features, visitors can learn more about aquatic wildlife every time they visit.
The wall, which has been a familiar structure in the PPG Aquarium for over a decade, was stripped, redesigned, and rebuilt to provide new information. It now contains facts, photos, and videos about Zoo conservation projects, animals who live at the PPG Aquarium as well as other species not currently featured at the Zoo. In 2011, the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium was pleased to announce that PPG Industries, a major benefactor and supporter of the Zoo, had chosen to renew their contract with the Zoo. In celebration of the partnership extension, the Zoo and PPG worked together to create the new and exciting experience for aquarium visitors. The premise behind the exhibit is to provide an interactive and educational space that highlights aquatic animals in our Zoo and around the world and Zoo conservation projects, as well as the PPG Conservation & Sustainability Fund. All major contractors and vendors involved in the design and construction of the wall are Pittsburgh-based. The wall will be regularly updated to keep the information current and accurate, as well as, to provide a novel experience for returning visitors. Featuring some important conservation work like
the Sea Turtle Second Chance Program and the PPG Conservation & Sustainability Fund alongside fascinating information about the animals who call the PPG Aquarium home, the hope is that visitors will leave with a greater understanding for underwater wildlife as well as an appreciation for the conservation efforts in which the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium is involved in worldwide.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Zoo Attendance Reaches Record High 2012 has proven to be a milestone year in many respects at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, and park attendance, which is on a record-breaking course, is no exception. Two monthly attendance records have been set and the first quarter attendance records for this year are the highest in Zoo history. Prior to Memorial Day, the year to date figure broke the 2009 record by over 66,000 guests. With boosts from winter penguin parades, the unseasonably warm end of winter, and excitement surrounding new animal births and arrivals, the visitors just keep coming. Both February and March saw huge increases in visitor numbers, crushing previous attendance records set in 2011 and 2004. The Zoo’s newest family members, a rescued sea otter pup, a newborn sea lion pup, and two new Komodo dragons who can be seen in Noname’s old exhibit, have been especially popular and brought in droves of visitors. With more guests coming into the Zoo than ever before, we can only say thank you for your continued support and encourage you to keep coming back for more wild adventures at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium.
Pufferfish They might not be fast, but they certainly are powerful. Several types of exotic pufferfish recently moved here and now call the PPG Aquarium their home. Swimming slowly and clumsily around their exhibit pufferfish might look cute, but their defensive abilities are impressive. If they feel threatened, pufferfish quickly inhale water and become several times their normal size, giving them their nickname “blowfish”. As if the stunning, defensive display was not enough, almost all types of pufferfish contain tetrodotoxin, a toxic chemical that makes them unpalatable to other fish and is poisonous to most species. The pufferfish exhibit near the entrance of the PPG Aquarium features dogface pufferfish (Arothron nigropunctatus), balloonfish (Diodon holocanthus), porcupine puffer (Diodon hystrix), spotted burrfish (Chilomycterus atinga), and striped burrfish (Chilomycterus schoepfi). Be sure to stop by and see these amazing creatures.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Did you know porcupines travel in schools?
Well, thanks to #1 Cochran’s donation of a Zoomobile, they do.
The #1 Cochran Zoobaru takes porcupines, lizards, snakes, owls and other zoo animals to area schools so kids can get an up-close look at these amazing creatures. We're proud to keep this wild, wooly show on the road.
SUBARU OF MONROEVILLE 4520 WILLIAM PENN HIGHWAY | MONROEVILLE, PA 15146 | cochransubaru.com
Sea Otter Pup
continued
them extremely buoyant. This allows the mothers to leave the pup safely floating on the surface while they forage for food below. I was able to observe our pup attempting to dive below the surface as his pup coat was gradually replaced by his adult fur. We also began the weaning process by offering him very small amounts of solid clam. To make the trip to Pittsburgh as stress-free as possible, we replaced his crib with his transport kennel and trained him to voluntarily walk into it. The opportunity to watch this young animal learn and develop skills, and his personality, is one that I will never forget. While I was getting to know the pup better, the Pittsburgh team was working hard to complete his new home. There were many email updates, phone conversations, and we even had a Skype session to ensure that everything would be ready for the pup’s arrival at the Zoo. The FedEx flight was booked and the date was set. The pup would be relocating to Pittsburgh on April 19, 2012. At 9 p.m. on transport day, we loaded up the van at the ALSC, and began the drive back on the Seward Highway to Anchorage. Our first flight took us to Memphis, TN, a required stop for all FedEx cargo flights, and after a five hour layover we continued to Pittsburgh. The entire transport took just under 30 hours. The most difficult part of transporting a sea otter pup is keeping him on his regular feeding and grooming schedule and ensuring proper ambient temperature. Because of their dense coats, it is very easy
for sea otters to overheat. We brought several small tubs, coolers of ice, and a few of his favorite toys so he could swim and enjoy playtime throughout the trip. With the help of the ASLC and FedEx staff and pilots, the pup arrived safely at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium on April 20. Since his arrival, the pup has reached several developmental milestones, including taking over his own grooming completely, eating solid food only, and learning how to sleep on the surface of his pool. Although the keepers and Zoo staff still observe him 24 hours a day, he has slowly been transitioned from six feeds to five feeds per day. He is being introduced to new food types such as crabs and mussels, and we are teaching him basic husbandry behaviors that will allow us to take better care of him. He continues to gain weight rapidly and when he is big enough, we will move him from the nursery to his permanent home in Sea Otter Cove. Our pup has come a long way in just a few short months, and there are many exciting milestones still ahead. It takes a village to raise a young sea otter and the Water’s Edge staff would like to thank all of the Zoo staff, docents, and volunteers who gave their time to make his transition and early months in his new home a success. We at Water’s Edge consider ourselves lucky to have taken part in the rescue of such an amazing animal and look forward to sharing his story with Zoo visitors for years to come.
Building a healthy future UPMC Health Plan proudly supports the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium.
Summer 2012 Zoo Explorer | 09
pittsburghzoo.org
Wow e v ’ I t a h w t s u J “
s y e k n o M … ” ! d e t n a w s y a w al
MEMBERSHIP GIFT CERTIFICATE ORDER FORM Gift certificate categories (choose one) ❏ $170 Contributing Family membership plus 20 guest admissions ❏ $120 Family Plus Family Membership plus 10 guest admissions ❏ $85
Family Membership Two adults in a household and their children under 18
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❏ $60
Individual One adult
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Please make check payable to Pittsburgh Zoo or pay by card:
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Give a gift that lasts all year:
A PITTSBURGH ZOO
Membership! A Zoo membership provides free admission to our Zoo and discounted admission to 130 other zoos! • To purchase online go to pittsburghzoo.org OR • Fill out the form and mail to: Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium Membership One Wild Place Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Calendar of Events For event updates and information, visit our website at pittsburghzoo.org, check out our Facebook page at facebook.com/pghzoo, or call the Special Events Hotline at 412-665-3640, and press 4.
September 14
October 7
November 10
Friday, 6 – 9:30 pm
Sunday
Saturday
Zoo Brew - Sold Out!
RADical Day
Polar Bear Birthday Party
Experience a unique sampling of some of the best craft beers in the world while enjoying food and musical entertainment. Guests must be 21 or older.
Have a wild adventure at the Zoo for free! Everyone receives free admission today.
Join us as we celebrate the birthdays of our polar bears. Guests can enjoy cake*, crafts, face painting, and live entertainment with Radio Disney.
Brought to you by PPG Industries & Allegheny Regional Asset District.
Brought to you by Yellowbook.
September 16 Sunday, 11 am – 3 pm
October 20-21 & 27-28 Saturday – Sunday, 11 am – 3 pm
Macy’s Elephant Day
KDKA ZooBoo
Join us for a trunk-swinging, ear-flapping birthday celebration of our elephant herd. This birthday bash includes cake*, games, face-painting, and more. Entertainment and prizes provided by Radio Disney.
Tons of Halloween fun for ghosts, goblins, and ghouls of all ages. Collect candy throughout the park, participate in costume contests, stop by our not-so-spooky haunt spots, and participate in the Halloween parade. Members receive one free visit.
Brought to you by Macy’s Foundation.
Brought to you by Erie Insurance.
November 1 Thursday
Registration Opens for Breakfast and Lunch with Santa Santa Claus is coming to town and he is making a special stop at the Zoo. Don’t delay in purchasing your tickets since this popular event is always a sell out! Tickets available at pittsburghzoo.org.
September 22
November 3
Saturday, 10 am – Noon
Saturday
Sea Lion Naming Celebration
ZooZilla 5K Gorilla Run/Walk
From September 10-20 join us on our website and social media to help name our lovely little sea lion pup. On September 22, we’ll have a celebration at the sea lion pool in Kids Kingdom to officially name the pup. Be the first to hear the winning name and enjoy face-painting and activities.
* While supplies last
Grab your running shoes and sense of adventure for this wild 5K! Participate as a timed, serious runner or walk the course for a one-of-a-kind stroll through the park. Brought to you by University of Pittsburgh, Yellowbook, PPG Industries, Clayton Kendall, Panera, Wild Republic, Bethel Park Printing, Aquafina, and Mr. John.
November 11 Sunday
Veteran’s Day To celebrate Veteran’s Day, we salute all current and former military members with free admission and $1 discounts for up to two guests. Brought to you by the Veteran’s Association of Pittsburgh.
November 17 Saturday
Animal Thanksgiving See the animals enjoy their Thanksgiving feasts before your family enjoys the holiday! Some of your favorite animals will receive yams & pumpkins, spiced leaves, and frozen treats. Brought to you by PPG Industries and Town Planner, your Community Calendar.
Summer 2012 Zoo Explorer | 11
There are estimated to be less than 50 Amur leopards left in the wild. Zoos like ours play a critical role in the survival and continuation of this, and many other endangered species.
Enjoying the best view of the zoo.
From the towering heights of the giraffes to the deep and cozy waters of the sea lion, the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium is a land of exploration and discovery. We are happy to support our local zoo and help share this best view.
FCB Member FDIC. Equal Opportunity Lender.
A place where
imaginations grow strong
CHIP, brought to you by UPMC for Kids, is pleased to support the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
www.upmchealthplan.com/upmcforkids
Summer 2012 Zoo Explorer | 13
How the Zoo is providing world-class medical care for its globally diverse population.
14 | Zoo Explorer Summer 2012
Inside the Animal Care Center Story By Laura Gething Communications Manager
Photography By Paul A. Selvaggio
Providing an all-inclusive home to over 4,000 animals, all of
“With the digital radiograph machine, if an image does not develop
whom have unique physiological and psychological needs, is not a
properly we can erase it and take a new one instead of moving the
simple task. Healthy feedings, appropriate habitats, and activities
anesthetized animal to switch out the plates”, explains Dr. Ginger
to keep the animals engaged and entertained often come to mind
Takle, director of Animal Health at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG
when visitors think of the responsibilities of the Zoo’s staff. However,
Aquarium. The new radiograph machine is not only digital, but it also
excellent medical care and the facilities that make such care possible
has twice the power of a traditional machine. This allows vets to get
are essential staples for ensuring the health and well-being of each
clear images of large and dense animals, like the skull of a lion or the
and every member of the Zoo’s family.
spine of a bear. “And with a click of a mouse, we can digitally change
The new Animal Care Center, or ACC for short, is located on Zoo grounds off the public pathway, behind the gorilla yard. It offers a wide range of options for the Zoo’s veterinary staff to
the contrast on that radiograph or send it via email to a colleague for a second opinion”. Beyond the surgical and medical treatment areas of the facility,
provide specialized treatment for a variety of species. At the core
there is also a quarantine wing that serves multiple purposes. When
of its capabilities, this state-of-the-art facility has a treatment room,
new animals come to the Zoo, they undergo a mandatory quarantine
operating room, intensive care unit, pharmacy, and diagnostics
period, which lasts a minimum of 30 days. This quarantine period
suite where veterinarians can perform specialized procedures such
gives the veterinary staff the opportunity to observe the new animal
as ultrasounds, endoscopies, and digital radiology. Each room is
to see if he or she has any conditions that will need to be monitored.
equipped with top-notch, high-tech equipment that allows care to
Many times if an animal has a condition, the unusual stimuli of
be administered to animals in the most revolutionary ways possible.
continued on page 17 Summer 2012 Zoo Explorer | 15
16 | Zoo Explorer Summer 2012
moving to a new home will bring the symptoms of the condition to the
We feel very strongly that all of our animals deserve the best possible care in all stages of life.
forefront and make them apparent to Zoo staff. Another reason for the quarantine period is so that any diseases that an animal might have or be carrying when they arrive on Zoo grounds can be treated and eliminated without exposing other animals who already live at the Zoo. The quarantine facilities can also be used for animals who are medical patients at the ACC. Each of the seven holding rooms has its own ventilation system and tools to alleviate the potential for crosscontamination between rooms. The rooms were built to mimic a veritable plethora of environmental factors so whether the patient at hand needs a warm, cold, arid, or aquatic environment, the diverse needs of the Zoo’s animals can be met. continued on page 19
Summer 2012 Zoo Explorer | 17
18 | Zoo Explorer Summer 2012
In another part of the ACC, the values of lifelong, holistic care can be seen literally built into the facility, as Dr. Takle points out, “We feel very strongly that all of our animals deserve the best possible care in all stages of life, whether it’s an egg from a bird, a ten-gram fish from the aquarium, or one of our mega-vertebrates. We give them the best care we can while they are alive, but death is a part of life that we cannot ignore. When any animal passes away they get a necropsy, which is the veterinary term for autopsy”. The necropsy portion of the facility is equipped with a walkthrough cooler and freezer, which allows specimens to be preserved while tests are performed and results are processed. Access to spacious cooler and freezer amenities are important,
through bulbs at a much slower rate than with conventional surgical lights. Flexibility is also key at the ACC, where patients can range from a seven-gram seahorse to a 10,000-pound elephant. From a pharmaceutical area stocked with medications to treat a wide variety of ailments, to military-grade ultrasound equipment that is portable and waterproof, the new 22,000 square foot facility is not only bigger than its 1,400 square foot predecessor, but better too. “The Animal Care Center fits our ever-growing collection”, beams Dr. Takle. “The hospital is more efficient, it provides better care for the animals, and it elevates our practice to the next level”.
as results from full necropsies can take several months. The building was designed and built using green and sustainable practices, something that is very important to the Zoo’s conservation efforts. New technologies opened the door to improved capabilities while keeping sustainability in mind. For example, the new LED surgical lights shine bright enough to allow the Animal Health team to see into the deepest, darkest cavities of the largest zoo animals while using less electricity and burning
Summer 2012 Zoo Explorer | 19
CREATED BY THE CONSERVATION EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
word search Bats are a misunderstood, yet fascinating species. Below you can find words that explain the unique characteristics of bats!
___ Brown
___ Echolocation
___ Fly
___ Fruit
___ Fur
___ Mammal
___ Nocturnal
___ Wings
maze
Help the bat find his way through the night to his tasty dinner!
R F L Y B T T Z O F T
A Z K E R U T O V H K
M C K N E G X X M Q K
I I O W C S G J N W A
L T K F H I U O O V B
E S U U O O B N C Y H
S G Q S L P M I T F I
O J N K O B A Q U K V
D U S N C R M R R M F
I U W N A O M W N S R
H K S P T W A N A Z U
A T X W I N L E L Y I
L Q J V O P Y P K K T
S M W I N G S P D X A
--
Find the two identical bats.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8. Answer 4 and 6.
20 | Zoo Explorer Summer 2012
Hey Henry, Why do tigers have stripes? -Gabriel Trimble
Got a question? E-mail it to: Hey, Henry! hkacprzyk@pittsburghzoo.org
Dear Gabriel, There are many legends that try to explain why tigers have stripes, but the reason is actually quite simple. Over time, tigers have adapted to their environment. Hunting is important to tigers’ survival and to successfully hunt, they need to be able to sneak up on their prey. Their stripes act as camouflage and help tigers to blend in with their environment. Many scientists believe that animals are color blind, so to other animals, the tiger’s stripes look like shadows in the tall grasses. Luckily for us, the stripes are just a beautiful sight! Henry
Bouncing Baby Girl In late May, we welcomed a new female sea lion pup to the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. Born to second-time mother Zoey, the sea lion pup weighed in at a very healthy 18 pounds and was closely monitored by keepers to ensure that she was vocalizing and nursing successfully. With a mortality rate of 10 to 15 percent within the first month of birth, survival of sea lion newborns is strongly dependent on the bond that forms between mother and pup. After the pup’s birth, Zoey’s natural protective instincts were in full swing
and she was very defensive towards others in an effort to protect the pup. As a few days passed, she began to relax and allowed the keepers and other sea lions to approach the pup. In the weeks following her birth, the pup continued to nurse and vocalize with her mother and the other sea lion members. The keepers did not interfere at any point, as everything was developing normally. Female California sea lions typically have a more slender build than males, can grow to a length of 5 or 6 feet, and will weigh between 110 to 225 pounds
as adults. When born, pups are a dark brown to black color that begins to fade to a lighter brown within the first few weeks after birth. Within half an hour of being born, sea lion pups are able to open their eyes, walk, vocalize, and groom. Despite their ability to do so many other things, the ability to swim can take up to a few weeks to develop. As newborns, sea lion pups have a natural tendency to paddle if they find themselves in the water, but they tire very quickly. Both Zoey and the keepers were constantly on guard to ensure that the pup was safe until she was ready to take the plunge for the first time. The mating season for sea lions is typically in May or June with a gestation period of nine months. However, sea lions have a delayed implantation of the embryo, which can delay the birth of the pup by roughly two or three months, depending on the time of conception. In this period of delayed implantation the embryo will remain dormant, which allows the pup to be born when food is more plentiful in the summer months. Although sea lions typically give birth to one pup at a time, there have been rare instances when twins were born. Now that the pup is a few months old, she is ready to be named. The Zoo is holding a naming contest where anyone can submit possible names and vote on the finalists. A sea lion naming celebration will be held on September 22 from 10 a.m. to noon at the sea lion pool in Kids Kingdom. Today, Zoey’s new pup is doing very well and enjoying short swims and lots of time with mom. Be sure to stop by Kids Kingdom and visit the sea lion exhibit to get a better look at this delightful new addition to the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium family.
22 | Zoo Explorer Summer 2012
Story By Tracy Gray Public Relations Manager Photography By Paul A. Selvaggio
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Summer 2012 Zoo Explorer | 23
24 | Zoo Explorer Summer 2012
F R O M T H E E D U C AT I O N D E PA R T M E N T
Wildlife Academy
Programs Offer Opportunities for Families to Connect with Nature As kids make their way back to school, the Conservation Education Department is busy preparing for the upcoming fall Wildlife Academy programs. Designed to share the wonders of wildlife, these family-friendly classes are tailored to meet the interests and abilities of various age groups. By incorporating live animals, biofacts, crafts, science projects, and Zoo tours, each Wildlife Academy class provides a unique experience, allowing children and adults to participate in new activities every time. Parents of children ages two through five will adore how the Zoo combines gentle introductions of animals with important concepts such as counting, patterns, shapes, and sounds to create an unforgettable introduction to the natural world. These classes are specifically designed to allow parents, or grandparents, to share in the discovery process. Children ages six through twelve and their parents have the opportunity to explore the habits and habitats of a wide range of wild animals, in their choice of “child with an adult” classes or “child only” classes. Many parents opt for the “child only” classes as a way for their child to meet new friends while experiencing the natural world with peers. Adult lectures are also popular opportunities to deepen understanding of important issues facing our planet today. Visiting speakers and various professionals from within the Zoo share both their experiences and expertise. Expand your horizons by giving Wildlife Academy classes a try! For more information about these and other exciting opportunities at the Zoo, please visit pittsburghzoo.org, and follow the link to Education. You’ll be in for a wild time!
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Digital Calendar Go wild every month for our digital calendar, available for download in a variety of computer desktop sizes. On the go? Check out our mobile downloads and take the Zoo with you everywhere, available in several sizes for both phones and tablets. Download as many of these stunning images as you like for free at pittsburghzoo.org/digitalcalendar and check back every month for new designs.
Desktop
Mobile
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Don’t miss our next edition of ZooExplorer, where you will get an inside look at history in the making - the birth and early months of the first rhinoceros born at the Zoo in over four decades.
ONE WILD PLACE | PITTSBURGH, PA 15206 | PITTSBURGHZOO.ORG