PUBLISHED FOR FRIENDS OF ROGER WILLIAMS PARK ZOO
September 27 - November 2
Welcome!
By Stacey Johnson Executive Director, RWP Zoo and RI Zoological Society
As we begin to come down from the events and busy times of summer, our teammates at the Zoo often chat about what projects they plan to catch up on in the “off-season.” The truth is that there is no off-season. With Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular staging underway now and shovels about to break ground on a couple of construction projects, the holiday season already feels like it will begin the day after tomorrow. Then, we will suddenly (not-so-suddenly) be preparing for the spring rollout of adventures for 2025.
As an example of our constant work to improve your experience (and due to popular demand), we are bringing back Spooky Zoo trick-or-treating for the youngsters throughout the Zoo and across TWO weekends in October. I look forward to seeing superhero capes and princess dresses zooming up and down our paths on a quest for Halloween goodies!
We have also been promising penguins, “Coming soon!” for two years. First, I apologize for the delay, and then I will let you in on the secret that we have been working behind the scenes all that time to remodel the off-view facility, design the water filtration system and new habitat components and prepare to receive the birds. It is unsurprising that, like everyone else, the Zoo has been subject to current trends in the construction industry, making costs soar and availability plummet. Being frugal and practical with limited resources is not just a good idea but a necessity. Without going into boring detail, I promise that the Zoo team has worked every angle to create a facility that allows us to take good care of the penguins and stay on budget. So, although it took longer to get here than anyone wanted, we will begin the more visible work on that habitat this fall. Next summer, you should see a flock of Humboldt’s penguins on the beach – and occasionally swimming - right here in Providence.
Thank you for your patience and continued support of your Zoo. Although we keep you informed about ongoing work and activity, it is easy to forget how much we do simultaneously. Guest service, conservation science, strategic planning, repair and maintenance, animal care and medicine, community outreach, fiscal management, education and interpretation, events and activities represent only a partial list of what is happening at the Zoo right now as you read this.
It always makes me smile when someone – whether a guest in the Zoo, a community leader, or someone I speak to at the grocery store – asks in surprise, “The Zoo does that?” It could be a routine business function or a far-flung global wildlife conservation activity, but either way, we work hard to make life at the Zoo appear relaxed and easy. However, my grandpa’s favorite saying was, “If it were easy, everybody would do it.” That is so true! With a staff of more than 150 and an annual budget greater than $18 million, Roger Williams Park Zoo is a medium-sized company whose product is the creation of experiences that empower its guests to conserve wildlife and wild places and to have a good time doing it. Salaries and benefits account for over half that budget, while admissions and sales make up only 48 percent of total revenue. It’s a fact that the Zoo is a mission-based, nonprofit organization. It is equally factual to say we have no safety net except your support.
Your Zoo aims to be a dynamic and responsive community asset. We are glad and proud to welcome you through our gates every day and are grateful to have you as partners in the mission.
See you soon!
Events and Ongoing Happenings (October – December)
OCTOBER
• ZOO HOURS: 9 am to 4 pm through Columbus Day
Note: Beginning Tuesday, October 15th, the Zoo will close on Tuesdays and Wednesdays except for holidays and school vacation days and hours will be 10 am to 4 pm.
• CAROUSEL HOURS: Daily 12 pm to 4 pm Carousel and train open daily (train weather dependent)
• 1st to 31st: Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular open daily
• 8th and 9th Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular Family Fun Nights
• 14th Columbus Day (schools closed/zoo open)
• 16th Scout Family Fun Night (JOLS)
• 19th Spooky Zoo (Rain date 20th)
• 22nd and 23rd JOLS Sensory Friendly Nights
• 26th Spooky Zoo (Rain date 27th)
• 27th Carving with the Masters (JOLS)
NOVEMBER
• ZOO HOURS: 10 am to 4 pm
Note: The Zoo will close on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, except for holidays and school vacation days and hours will be 10 am to 4 pm.
• CAROUSEL HOURS: Weekends 12 pm to 4pm Train closed for the season
• 2nd and 3rd Zoo Careers 101 (2-day teen workshop)
• 2nd: JOLS FINAL DAY
• 5th: Election Day - Zoo Open
• 11th: Food Truck Daytime Event at the Zoo / Veterans Day
• 17th: Breakfast with the Rainforest Residents
• 28th: Thanksgiving Zoo Closed
• 29th: HOLS Opening Day (runs through January 4th)
DECEMBER
• ZOO HOUR: 10am to 4pm
Note: Zoo will close on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, except for holidays and school vacation days
• CAROUSEL HOURS: Weekends 12pm to 4pm Train closed for the season
• ALL MONTH HOLIDAY LIGHTS SPECTACULAR Closes January 4th
• 14th: Parkwide Holiday Celebration
• 5th, 12th, 19th: Visits with Santa 5pm to 7pm (During HOLS)
• 24th: Zoo Closed
• 25th: Zoo Closed
(Zoo open weekdays during school break - 23rd, 26th and 27th)
• 27th: Food Drive/ Free Zoo Day
September 27 - November 2
New England’s favorite fall tradition unveils a brandnew twist this year at Roger Williams Park Zoo’s JackO-Lantern Spectacular - Trivia Edition.
Guests will trek through the captivating world of tricky trivia as they embark on a journey through brain-teasing questions while strolling past 1000s of creatively carved pumpkins.
From pop culture to sports to history, they can test their knowledge and enjoy the magic of fall at Roger Williams Park Zoo.
We’re incredibly grateful to our longtime sponsor, Citizens, for their generous support that made this year’s spectacular possible. Their continued commitment allows us to keep this beloved tradition alive for New England and beyond, bringing joy and magic to families.
We’re also deeply thankful to Cardi’s Furniture & Mattresses for their ongoing support of the Zoo. Cardi’s year-round commitment helps increase the visibility of the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, making it a memorable experience for all.
This event wouldn’t be possible without the support of our incredible community. Thank you to our sponsors, staff, volunteers, carvers, artists, Zoo members, and everyone who helps make this spooktacular happen.
Proceeds from the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular support the Zoo’s ongoing animal care, education programs and conservation initiatives. Thank you for helping us save wildlife and wild places!
For more information, please visit rwpzoo.org/jols
Win your way into the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular presented by Citizens!
Get ready for a spooktacular fall event! Bursting with amazement and wonder, the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular presented by Citizens at Roger Williams Park Zoo promises to be more enchanting than ever.
This family-friendly event wows visitors with thousands of meticulously carved pumpkins and incredible theming created by the incredible vision and artistry of the Passion for Pumpkins team. As you stroll through the trail, you’ll be mesmerized by thousands of intricately carved pumpkins, each one a work of art. This year’s trail has a fun new twist: Roger Williams Park Zoo’s Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular –Trivia Edition presented by Citizens. From pop culture to sports to history, test your knowledge and enjoy the magic of fall a whole new way.
“In over two-decades of sponsorship, this event has grown year over year, bringing attendees from both near and far,” says Keith Kelly, State President at Citizens. “This fantastic event is a great way for families to support the zoo’s animal welfare, education and conservation initiatives, while making lasting memories on the pumpkin trail.”
Trick-or-Treat bags and candy will be handed out on Thursdays by Citizens colleagues. Sensory-friendly nights, with no music or special effects will take place on Tuesday, October 22 & Wednesday, October 23 from 5:00 – 6:00 pm.
Thank you to Citizens for their longstanding commitment to the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular and the Rhode Island community.
SPECIES SPOTLIGHT Southern Tamandua Salvador
Carina
...and Gustavo
Southern tamanduas are fascinating and unique creatures that belong to the same family as sloths and anteaters. Tamanduas are also known as the “lesser anteater.” These solitary mammals are native to South America and are known for their distinctive appearance and unique diet.
Roger Williams Park Zoo is home to three southern tamanduas: Carina, Salvador, and Gustavo. Gustavo is the newest member of our tamandua family, born to Carina and Salvador in May of this year.
A Closer Look
Southern tamanduas have a long, furry body with a prehensile tail that they use for gripping branches. Their forelimbs have powerful claws for digging, climbing, and defense. Tamanduas are small but mighty, typically weighing around 10 pounds.
As anteaters, southern tamanduas are primarily insectivores, feeding mainly on ants and termites in the wild. Tamanduas have long, tubular snouts with narrow openings and long, sticky tongues. They use their tongues to forage for food, slurping up prey from insect nests they’ve excavated with their snout and claws.
Tamanduas can be found in several habitats, including tropical rainforests and grasslands. They are often found in trees, using their prehensile tails to climb and swing. Our tamandua family is featured in the Faces of the Rainforest exhibit.
Endangered Status
While the southern tamandua is not currently listed as endangered, there are threats to its survival. Deforestation and habitat loss are major concerns, as these activities can reduce the availability of food and shelter.
Conservation Efforts
Conservation efforts are focused on habitat preservation and restoration to help protect southern tamanduas. Additionally, education and awareness programs are being implemented to raise public awareness about the importance of these animals and the threats they face. Southern tamanduas are remarkable creatures that play an important role in their ecosystems. By understanding more about their biology and behavior, we can help ensure their survival for future generations!
Power of
Behind the scenes of our Zoo, a dedicated team of animal care experts works tirelessly to ensure the well-being of their furry, feathered, and scaly friends. One of their most important tools? Enrichment.
Enrichment is like a mental and physical workout for animals. It allows them to engage in species-specific behaviors such as foraging, climbing, or exploring. Zookeepers get creative with enrichment activities to provide animals with a creative outlet for physical activity, mental exercise, and choice and control over how they spend their time. Some animals might receive puzzle feeders that require them to use their brains to get their food. Others might enjoy climbing structures that mimic their natural habitats. Even training sessions can be a form
of enrichment, as they allow animals to interact with their keepers and learn new skills. Enrichment is just as essential to animal welfare as nutrition and veterinary care.
Enrichment in Action
Enrichment THE Forage Sniff Play
One recent enrichment activity at our Zoo was a treat for our white-cheeked gibbons, Ari and Quon. Their food was cut into different sizes, wrapped in paper, and stuffed into a PVC basket. The basket was covered with branches and placed high up in their exhibit to make it even more challenging. This mimicked the gibbons’ natural foraging behavior in the forest treetops.
Explore
Our innovative zookeepers devised this idea to keep Ari and Quon engaged while helping them stay mentally and physically sharp, creating an enriching environment.
So, the next time you visit the Zoo, take a moment to appreciate the hard work and creativity of the zookeepers who are dedicated to providing the best possible care for the animals in their care.
November 29, 2024 - January 4, 2025
New England’s Most Magical Winter Event Returns!
Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland of over 3.5 million twinkling lights at this year’s spectacular light display! From November 29th to January 4th, explore the Zoo’s 40 acres of illuminated pathways featuring dazzling displays that will leave you in awe.
Highlights include:
• Festive Decorations: Larger-than-life light sculptures and shimmering displays create a magical atmosphere.
• Winter Treats: Enjoy hot cocoa, adult beverages, and delicious s’mores as you stroll through the Zoo.
• Visits with Santa: Bring the kids for free visits with Santa on Thursday nights (with a same-night ticket for the 5 or 6 pm timeslot).
Bundle up and make this a must-see experience for your family this holiday season!
Tickets will go on sale mid-October and are available for purchase online only.
Information on dates and times and to purchase tickets can be found at rwpzoo.org/holidaylights
Thanks to Rhode Island Monthly for including RWPZoo in their 2024 Hall of Fame
Roger Williams Park Zoo is supported and managed by the Rhode Island Zoological Society and is owned by the City of Providence
Editorial
Roger Williams Park Zoo Department of
Marketing and Public Relations
Corrie Ignagni
Vicki Scharfberg
Maxine Colvin
Designer Sara Beatrice
Tandem Designworks
Photo Credits
Roger Williams Park Zoo
WILD is an online publication of the Rhode Island Zoological Society, Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence, Rhode Island 02907-3659
For membership information call (401) 785-3510 x375 or visit rwpzoo.org.
The Zoo will be free on Wednesday, December 27th, to celebrate National Visit the Zoo Day
But, the Roger Williams Park Zoo encourages every visitor to share the holiday spirit with the community by bringing non-perishable food items to benefit the Rhode Island Community Food Bank between 10 am and 3 pm.
Cardi’s Furniture & Mattresses is generously donating a truck and staff to help collect all food items and deliver them to the RI Food Bank.
2024 RHODE ISLAND ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Officers
Patrick T. LeBeau, CFP,® Chair
Nancy Allen, Vice Chair
Sandra L. Coletta, Vice Chair
Margaret Ferguson, Secretary
Maribeth Q. Williamson, Treasurer
Board of Trustees
Martha Bower
Douglas Caniglia
Claire Carrabba, Esq
Cheryl Cohen
Sarah Denby
Cindy Erickson
Pamela W. Heffernan
John Igliozzi, Esq
Howard Merten, Esq
Damaris Messina
John H. Mullen
John J. Palumbo
Steven M. Parente
Karen Silva EdD, CHE
Ex-Officio
Stacey Johnson
Executive Director
Rhode Island Zoological Society/ Roger Williams Park Zoo
Wendy Nilsson Superintendent of Parks
Providence Parks Department
Chair Emerit
Sophie F. Danforth*
Trustees Emeritus
Margaret E. Curran, Esq.
Thomas P. Dimeo*
Jocelin Hamblett
James S. Harper III, VMD*
Bradford B. Kopp
Arthur D. Little
Liz Rollins Mauran
Nancy G.R. Moger
Richard Nadeau
Jane S. Nelson
Cate M. Roberts
Philip A. Segal, Jr.
Robert F. Stoico
*deceased
Please follow us online and share your photos and stories!
(From left to right- Stacey Johnson, John Palumbo, Tempie Thomson, Ron Patalano, Leigh Picard)
Kids’ Corner Kids’ Corner
Fall Tree Newspaper Craft
What you need:
• scissors
• glue
• blue color paper
• old newspapers, magazines or store pamphlets
• thin cardboard or brown paper
Step-by-Step Tutorial
The Tree Trunk
• To make the trunk, have the kids wrinkle brown paper. You can also have them use old newspaper and paint it brown.
• Some twisting and turning will be needed to shape up the tree trunk.
• Have them cut the ends to get the desired length of their tree trunk.
• Have the kids glue the tree to the bottom of the blue color paper.
The Branches
• The tree needs a couple of branches. Have the kids cut out a couple of different-sized rectangles to make the branches.
• Have the kids twist the branches in the same way as they did the tree trunk.
• Next, they need to apply glue (either to the branches or to the sheet of paper) and stick the branches to the paper.
The Leaves
• Prepare the old newspaper, magazines, or store pamphlets and have the kids cut out leaf shapes. Any colors will do, but if they are aiming for fall feelings, reds, yellows, oranges, and browns work out best.
• Have the kids apply glue on the leaves and glue them on the branches.
• They can create a pile of leaves at the bottom by gluing one on top of the other.
