ZOONOOZ September 2013

Now

il

ava

ad

n iP

eo abl

Members get up close FREE all year long!

Start your membership today. Call 619-718-3000 or visit sandiegozoo.org

inside september 2013

wildlife 8 The “Maned” Event Meet the maned wolf, the world’s most unique canine species.

BY KARYL CARMIGNANI

16 The Curious Habits of Bathing Birds A bird keeper comes clean with the many ways birds bathe—and it’s not all wet!

BY MICHAEL GRUE

19 Characteristically Koala Discover the physical adaptations that make these marsupials well-suited to their lifestyle.

BY WENDY PERKINS

conservation 12 Nosey Science in Peruvian Forests The nose knows, and in the case of Andean bears, the nose shows the animal’s age.

BY RUSS VAN HORN, PH.D.

22 Well, Well: Water Conservation at the Safari Park Water is precious in San Diego, and the Safari Park makes every drop count.

BY WENDY PERKINS

more 2 Chairman’s Note 4 Through the Lens 5 Save the Date 6 You Said It 25 What’s in Store 26 Support 28 From the Archives

FREE! Download the ZOONOOZ App for your iPad. sandiegozoo.org/zoonooz

on the cover: Maned wolf Chrysocyon brachyurus on this page: Andean bear Tremarctos ornatus

SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL

SANDIEGOZOO.ORG

1

chairman’s note

SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL OFFICERS

Building Blocks

T

here’s an African saying, “One pebble doesn’t make a f loor.” That’s certainly true for everything we do at San Diego Zoo Global: all our work is achieved through the cumulative efforts of the many people who contribute to and support our conservation fieldwork, caring for our animals, operating our wonderful Zoo and Safari Park facilities, and creating new exhibits.

As I mentioned in the July issue of ZOONOOZ, we are currently in another building phase now, raising funds to carry out the largest expansion in the Zoo’s history, the Conrad Prebys Africa Rocks.

This project will renew the part of the Zoo that has long been known as Dog and Cat Canyon, with exhibits representing more than five different African habitats and featuring hundreds of plant and animal species native to those areas. Scheduled to open in 2017, Africa Rocks is a big project but also an exciting opportunity, one that will take the Zoo to a new level to start off its next 100 years. We are very grateful to Conrad Prebys, who presented San Diego Zoo Global with the gift to get the project underway, and to Ernest Rady, who has offered a fund-raising challenge: he will donate $10 million if we can raise $20 million of matching funds by August 2015.

Can you help us meet the Rady Challenge? We value every donation, large or small— they are the “pebbles” or building blocks that will help us create this new section of our world-famous zoo. If you are interested in contributing to Africa Rocks, I encourage you to visit our website at sandiegozoo.org/africarocks or call 619-231-1515, option 2, extension 4421, to ask about giving options. You can also watch the progress of the exhibit funding on the website as it continues to grow and stay posted for more about Africa Rocks as the plans are developed. As always, thank you for your support of San Diego Zoo Global.

Rick Gulley Chairman

2

ZOONOOZ

SEPTEMBER 2013

Richard B. Gulley, Chairman William H. May, Vice Chairman Sandra A. Brue, Secretary Robert B. Horsman, Treasurer

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

M. Javade Chaudhri Berit N. Durler Clifford W. Hague Nan C. Katona Patricia L. Roscoe Steven G. Tappan Judith A. Wheatley David S. Woodruff, Ph.D., D.Sc.

TRUSTEES EMERITI Frank C. Alexander Kurt Benirschke, M.D. Weldon Donaldson Thompson Fetter Bill L. Fox Frederick A. Frye, M.D. George L. Gildred Yvonne W. Larsen John M. Thornton Albert Eugene Trepte Betty Jo F. Williams

William E. Beamer, General Counsel Douglas G. Myers, President/CEO Charles L. Bieler, Executive Director Emeritus

THE FOUNDATION OF SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL OFFICERS

John E. Gartman, Chair Murray H. Hutchison, Vice Chair Margie Warner, Secretary Maryanne C. Pfister, Treasurer Mark A. Stuart, President Richard B. Gulley, Ex officio Douglas G. Myers, Ex officio

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Christine L. Andrews Richard A. Baldwin Joye D. Blount Rick Bregman Lisa S. Casey Douglas Dawson Berit N. Durler, Ex officio U. Bertram Ellis, Jr. Arthur E. Engel Fran Golden Craig L. Grosvenor Judith C. Harris Richard M. Hills Craig A. Irving Susan B. Major Susan N. McClellan Michael D. McKinnon George A. Ramirez Joyce Summers Thomas Tull

Do you have the digital ZOONOOZ?

ZOONOOZ is now available in three digital formats: for iPad, Kindle Fire, and desktop computer. At home or on the go, you can now have ZOONOOZ at your fingertips!

Download ZOONOOZ for your iPad Download ZOONOOZ for your Kindle

through the lens

Fort Hall baboon tarantula Pterinochilus lugardi

4

ZOONOOZ

SEPTEMBER 2013

ZOONOOZ

®

PUBLISHED SINCE 1926

save the date

SEPTEMBER 2013 VOL.LXXXVINO.9 MANAGING EDITOR KAREN E. WORLEY ASSOCIATE EDITORS PEGGY SCOTT DEBBIE ANDREEN STAFF WRITERS WENDY PERKINS KARYL CARMIGNANI SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL PHOTOGRAPHER KEN BOHN DIGITAL IMAGING TECHNICIAN TAMMY SPRATT DESIGN AND PRODUCTION DAMIEN LASATER CHRIS MARTIN HEIDI SCHMID PREPRESS AND PRINTING TRANSCONTINENTAL/PRINTED IN CANADA The Zoological Society of San Diego was founded in October 1916 by Harry M. Wegeforth, M.D., as a private, nonprofit corporation. The Zoological Society of San Diego does business as San Diego Zoo Global.

ZOONOOZ® (ISSN 0044-5282) is currently published bimonthly. Publisher is San Diego Zoo Global, at 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92103, 619-231-1515. Periodicals postage paid at San Diego, California, U.S.A., and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Membership Department, P.O. Box 120271, San Diego, CA 92112.

Autumn at the Zoo and Safari Park AS SUMMER WINDS DOWN and kids head back to school, there are plenty of good reasons to visit the Zoo and Safari Park. The ever-popular Kids Free in October, presented by Mission Fed, is the perfect opportunity for “your wild ones to meet ours.” The animals of the new Conrad Prebys Australian Outback at the Zoo are settling in nicely, and if you haven’t had a chance to come by yet, you might want to plan some time to spend with the koalas. Fall is the perfect time to enjoy a Caravan Safari at the Park, and the Park has also added a special behind-the-scenes Surprise Safari. If you love to be amazed, you can also take a Sunrise Surprise Stroll at the Zoo before it opens on select weekend mornings. San Diego is a beautiful place to experience autumn—we hope you’ll come by to revel in a variety of fun and furry surprises with us!

Copyright® 2013 San Diego Zoo Global. All rights reserved.

“ZOONOOZ” Reg. U.S. Pat. Office. All column and program titles are trademarks of San Diego Zoo Global.

Annual Memberships: Dual $114, new; $99, renewal. Single $94, new; $82, renewal. Each membership includes unlimited entrance to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

ZOONOOZ subscription: $25 per year, $65 for 3 years. Foreign, including Canada and Mexico, $30 per year, $81 for 3 years.

Contact Membership Department, P.O. Box 120271, San Diego, CA 92112.

Douglas G. Myers President/CEO

As part of San Diego Zoo Global’s commitment to conservation, ZOONOOZ is printed on recycled paper that is 30% post-consumer waste, chlorine free, and is Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) certified.

Using this paper for a year will save approximately 200 tons of wood, or 1,400 trees; 965 million BTUs of energy, enough to run 10 homes for a year; 155,000 pounds of CO2 equivalent, the amount produced by 14 cars during a year; and 84,000 pounds of solid waste (estimates made using the Environmental Defense Fund Paper Calculator).

FSC is not responsible for any calculations on saving resources by choosing this paper.

SEPTEMBER Daily: Behind-the-Scenes Safari, at the Park 7: Roar & Snore: The Park after Dark, at the Park

SAN DIEGO ZOO HOURS September 1–2: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

September 3–20: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

September 21: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

September 22–30: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

October 1-6: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

October 7-31: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

SAN DIEGO ZOO SAFARI PARK HOURS September 1–2: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

September 3–30: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

October 1-31: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

WEBSITE

sandiegozoo.org

7, 14, 21, 28: Veterinary Medical Center Tour, at the Park 7, 28, 29: Sunrise Surprise Stroll, at the Zoo 14 Albert’s Fall Brewmaster Dinner, at the Zoo 21: San Diego Zoo Food & Wine Celebration presented by Cymer, at the Zoo

OCTOBER 1–31: Kids Free presented by Mission Fed, at the Zoo and Park 5–6: Fisher-Price Little People Live Show, at the Zoo 5, 12: Albert’s Member Appreciation Dinners, at the Zoo 12: Roar & Snore: Creepy Camp for families, at the Park 19, 26: Spooky Sleepovers, at the Zoo 20: Oktoberfest Dinner, at the Park 26: Roar & Snore: Creepy Camp for adults, at the Park

22 Dinner with Animal Ambassadors, at the Park

SAN DIEGO ZOO PHONE 619-231-1515

ZOONOOZ® SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL

SANDIEGOZOO.ORG

5

you said it Just tuned in to the camera and I see all 4 of our gorgeous koala ladies in the frame … first time I’ve

seen all of them together like that … and a special note to all of you awesome koala keepers, including the camera operator ...thanks for all you do to keep our ladies happy and healthy!

Mary

[Panda Cam] is one of my favorite sites.

Watching momma and cub is addictive. Thanks for all you do

for the animals and the folks following.

Joyce Ann Tutwiler

Hands down, best zoo in the USA! @Geena_Gall

Love watching the polar bears! Props to the volunteer that is manning all of the webcams. My students are so happy watching! @Briana_G_Roves

Amazing, wonderful, beautiful blog!!

SurfingTheSky

Thanks a million for helping to give these animals such a good life and spreading the word about conservation!! I don’t think I can ever say thank you enough to all of you keepers and staff at SDZ especially.

Daisy

Holy gharial, Batman. The @sandiegozoo is even better than I had heard. @michaelfertik

It’s good to be given a peek into the hard, hidden work the keepers do. And into the nuts and bolts of a zoo.

Thanks very much!

SC

Last year’s contest was such a hit that we’re doing it again! During October’s Kids Free, presented by Mission Fed, document your kids enjoying the Zoo or Safari Park and tag your pics and videos on Instagram with #sdzkidsfree for a chance to win a behind-the-scenes adventure for the whole family.

Details available in late September at: sandiegozoo.org/kidsfree.

What’s ? s e n e c S e h t Behind

Find Out!

Get to know the Zoo and Safari Park better than ever—take our behind-the-scenes tours! Venture off with a small group and your expert guide, who will give you the inside scoop while you enjoy exciting animal encounters and explore areas of the Zoo or Park that are off limits to other visitors. This special experience is one you won’t soon forget!

To plan your behind-the-scenes adventure, visit sandiegozoo.org/zoo/special/tours or sdzsafaripark.org/safaritickets/bts_tour, or call 619-718-3000.

The

“Maned” Event

By Karyl Carmignani STAFF WRITER

Photos by Ken Bohn SDZG PHOTOGRAPHER

8

ZOONOOZ

SEPTEMBER 2013

L

anky and lean, the mysterious, misnamed, and misunderstood wild dog of South America is a sight to behold. Though it resembles a red fox on stilts, it is not closely related to the vulpine (fox) family. Despite its common name, it is not closely affiliated with wolves, either. But it does sport a dramatic, dark-colored mane down its back that flares up when the animal feels threatened. Meet the beautiful, big-eared, red-haired, long-legged maned wolf.

This species is aloof for a canid and less vocal than other wild dogs.

“These animals are the opposite of what people think they know about dogs,” said Tammy Batson, San Diego Zoo lead keeper. Once visitors lay eyes on these elegant-looking creatures, Tammy said they really “give people a reason to care.” Each day at 1 p.m., keepers give a talk and training demonstration at the maned wolf exhibit near the Zoo’s Skyfari West, and guests can see the wild dogs in action.

Although it is a member of the Canidae family, which contains dogs, wolves, and foxes, the maned wolf is the only species in the genus Chrysocyon.

SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL

SANDIEGOZOO.ORG

9

Above: Keepers have short training sessions with the maned wolves each day.

Here, each wolf is asked to touch a colored target with her nose. This baseline behavior training can minimize stress for the animals during routine care, since they can be weighed and monitored easily. Training is also enrichment for the animals—and interesting for visitors!

WHO ARE YOU? Its blazing fur, solitary lifestyle, and omnivorous diet thrust the maned wolf into a genus all its own: Chrysocyon. Native to Argentina, Paraguay, Bolivia, and Peru, the maned wolf inhabits grasslands and scrub forests. It is thought that its exceedingly long legs allow the animal to see above the tall grass while hunting and running. Unlike true wolf species, maned wolves tend toward a solitary lifestyle but do form monogamous pair bonds. Though a pair shares a large, permanent home range of up to 17 square miles, each member hunts independently and only comes together for breeding.

However, male maned wolves in zoos provide regurgitated food for the young, which indicates that they may stick around to help raise their offspring in the wild as well.

Yet another quirk of the maned wolf lifestyle is its diet. Although classified as a carnivore, it is really an omnivore. During the rainy season, it eats mainly lobeira, a tomato-like fruit from a low, spiny bush—in fact, the fruit is also called the “wolf apple” for this reason. Studies of maned wolf feces have indicated that just over three-quarters of its diet is made up of fruit and vegetable matter. The other portion consists of small mammals, reptiles, birds and their eggs, and insects. With so much of its diet being vegetarian, a special prepared diet was created for these animals in zoos—it contains less animal-based protein (and reduced sodium) and more plantbased protein. This helps control cystinuria in this species, a condition in which an amino acid called cystine forms stones in the kidneys or bladder.

Rather than chasing down prey, maned wolves tend to stalk and pounce, their large, erect ears ever alert to the telltale sounds of their next meal. They are most active during dusk and dawn hours, spending daylight and nighttime hours dozing under the cover of thick brush.

HEAR THAT? Maned wolves have a somewhat abbreviated vocal repertoire compared to other wild dogs. They don’t howl or bay, but they do use three other sounds: a deep-throated single bark, usually heard at dusk; a high-pitched whine, sometimes used in greeting; and a growl during antagonistic behavior. Most of their communication is done through olfactory means. Their pungent urine serves as a "keep out" signpost. Other maned wolves can smell it a mile away and discern a great deal from an individual’s

10

ZOONOOZ

SEPTEMBER 2013

“perfume.” Is the animal healthy? Ready to breed? Protecting its territory? This canid's long, slender muzzle can read the fine print of those scent marks!

POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT TRAINING At the Zoo, two young maned wolf sisters, Jasmine and Jamie, share a spacious, outdoor exhibit (they also have off-exhibit bedrooms).

“At 55 pounds, Jamie is the dominant one, though her sister weighs 5 pounds more than she does,” said Tammy. They have access to fresh water and dry kibble at all times, and their special “high-value” treat is mice, used as a reward during their training sessions. These animals are somewhat shy and do not view humans as food, which allows the keepers to work with the dogs inside the exhibit. Since many animals tend to mask illness to avoid appearing weak, it is important for keepers to be able to monitor each animal’s weight as a health marker. “We use operant conditioning and positive reinforcement techniques to get the animals to make good decisions to cooperate with us,” explained Tammy. “If we can train them to get on a scale or provide urine samples, it reduces stress on the animals and the staff.”

During the daily Keeper Talk, Zoo guests can watch a keeper working with each dog, practicing target training as a useful baseline behavior. “We don’t touch the wolves,” said Tammy. “It’s important to respect their boundaries. The only time maned wolves

touch each other is to fight or breed, and I don’t want either of those things.” Each animal has her own six-inch plastic target (Jamie’s is red, Jasmine’s is blue) that the keeper attaches to the fence at different places and heights. The keeper gestures toward the target, which is paired with the verbal command, “target,” and the dog touches her nose to it. The keeper uses a clicker to indicate that this is the correct behavior. Intermittent reinforcement is used for the training session, so after a few correct target behaviors, a mouse is given and gobbled down instantly. Each wolf receives 15 mice during these sessions. “This is also a great way to make sure the less-dominant animal is getting her fair share.”

THE OUTLOOK Despite their beauty and retiring nature, maned wolves face a number of threats across their range, including hunting, superstition, and habitat loss as humans convert wild spaces to farms. Some rural people attach mystical qualities to various maned wolf body parts (eyes, skin, tail), which are used as a talisman or for folk remedies. Others persecute the wild dogs for taking chickens. Currently, maned wolves are listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. It is hoped that zoos around the world can help protect this regal species by breeding them, which has proved challenging, and helping to preserve native habitat. We need to work together to give this wild dog a leg up on its long-term survival.

SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL

SANDIEGOZOO.ORG

11

NOSEY SCIENCE in

Peruvian Forests

By Russ Van Horn, Ph.D. SCIENTIST, SAN DIEGO ZOO INSTITUTE FOR CONSERVATION RESEARCH PHOTOS COURTESY OF SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL, SPECTACLED BEAR CONSERVATION-PERU, AND THE BOTANICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF TEXAS

12

ZOONOOZ

SEPTEMBER 2013

I

have gradually become obsessed with Andean bear noses: what information the nose reveals to the bear and what the nose’s appearance reveals about the bear to us. At first glance, the nose of an Andean bear (also called spectacled bear) simply looks like a bear’s nose. No surprise there!

However, if you look closely, you can see differences between individual noses. In working with colleagues, I’ve concluded that changes in the color of an Andean bear’s nose follow a loosely predictable pattern, and seeing a wild bear’s nose in a photo from a camera trap can be used to estimate the bear’s age. Being able to estimate the age of wild individuals without touching them is a powerful tool, helping us to decipher the demographics of a species we’re only beginning to understand—but that we must understand if we are to conserve it.

THE BIG BEAR PICTURE The International Union for Conservation of Nature considers Andean bears vulnerable to extinction due to poaching, conflict between bears and humans over damage to livestock or crops, and habitat loss and degradation. Effective conservation requires not only a comprehension of the social, political, and economic contexts but also a thorough scientific understanding of the species’ biology and habitat. Unfortunately, we have little scientific information about Andean bears, since they have been a challenge to study in their rugged, remote, and densely forested habitat in South America. San Diego Zoo Global’s Andean bear conservation program strives to increase scientific knowledge about these bears, to train and mentor Peruvian scientists and conservationists, and to promote the idea that bears and other wildlife are critical components of a healthy ecosystem on which we all depend.

FACES IN THE FOREST During the past five years, I have worked in both the humid montane forests of southeast Peru and in the tropical dry forest of northwest Peru. In this rough terrain, one of our main research tools is the camera trap, or trail camera. These special digital cameras are programmed to take a picture, or a series of pictures, when the sensors detect changes in the locations of body heat. Camera traps have been used in other studies to estimate the number of individuals of various species in an area—an important step in evaluating the quality of a piece of habitat or an ecosystem.

Using camera traps for this purpose is a challenging task, since it typically requires that researchers visually identify individuals. It has long been assumed that Andean bears could be identified by their markings, but this hasn’t been rigorously tested until now. Fortunately,

The tropical dry forest is so open that we can directly observe wild Andean bears as they forage, reproduce, and visit the few permanent waterholes in the area (along with bees, apparently!).

SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL

SANDIEGOZOO.ORG

13

when I investigated this with Corrin LaCombe, a research coordinator for the San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, and other colleagues, we confirmed that with some training, it is possible to accurately identify Andean bears from their photographs.

Depending on where a camera trap is located, it may collect hundreds of photos of wild animals every month.

These images reveal which mammals live in an area, and the presence or absence of different species indicates something about the quality of the habitat. However, camera trap photos also record when they were taken, and with enough cameras, we’re able to describe daily

Above: Andean bears rely heavily on the fruit of the sapote tree (seen here being measured) as a food source.

By engaging local citizen scientists in research on these trees, we hope to increase awareness among the neighbors of this valuable resource and enhance conservation efforts in the region.

Left: Camera traps can provide information on a wide range of animals, including (clockwise) pumas, ocelots, Andean bears, and Sechuran foxes, just some of the species that have been caught by the lens.

and seasonal variation in activity patterns of the animals that pass in front of the camera.

In addition, obtaining photos of young animals allows us to determine the seasonal timing of reproduction, which is not well known for Andean bears or many other South American animals.

By placing camera traps next to waterholes in the dry forest, we’ve been able to collect data on visits by bears: how frequently they visit, whether a bear’s age and sex affects its use of the resource, and whether a visit by one bear influences when the next bear might arrive. With this information, we begin to understand the importance of waterholes to dry forest bears and see the influence of social factors in this largely solitary species.

CELEBRATING CITIZEN SCIENCE Good science by itself is not sufficient to conserve the Andean bear, or any species. New knowledge only improves conservation if it

14

ZOONOOZ

SEPTEMBER 2013

is shared in ways that change natural resource management—and human behavior. Samantha Young, a research technician for the Institute’s Conservation Education division, has led outreach and education efforts in rural communities near our dry forest study site. With support from the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund, we’ve engaged citizen scientists in the collection of data on vegetation characteristics. Based on direct observations and evidence from camera-trap photos, the dry forest bears appear to rely heavily on the fruit of the sapote tree, which is critically endangered in Peru yet often illegally cut down. By involving local citizens as field scientists in research, we believe that we’ll gain new knowledge of sapote ecology while simultaneously increasing local understanding and awareness of the ecological value of the tree.

Our hope is that if citizen scientists are engaged in the process, they will understand and accept the data and results and champion the conservation action they inspire.

Save the Date for

Live from Little People Place!™ Little People® friends are all new and they can’t wait to meet you!

Join them for a brand new live & interactive show where friends come to learn and play and sing and dance and discover!

2920 Zoo Drive San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 231-1515

EVENT DATES: Saturday, O Oct. 5 and Sunday, O Oct. 6 EVENT TIMES: 11am and 2pm two shows daily

EVENT LOCATION: Zoo's Hunte Amphitheater

FREE

with paid zoo admission or zoo membership!

Fisher-Price is a proud sponsor of the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park. ©2013 Mattel. All Rights Reserved. ® and ™ designate U.S. trademarks of Mattel, except as noted.

SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL

SANDIEGOZOO.ORG

15

THE CURIOUS HABITS OF

BATHING BIRDS

By Mike Grue SENIOR KEEPER

Photos by Ken Bohn SDZG PHOTOGRAPHER

16

ZOONOOZ

SEPTEMBER 2013

W

hy do we bathe? Some younger readers might respond, “because my Mom and Dad tell me to!” In this case, parents are right: bathing is important for health. Keeping clean is one of the best ways that we and other animals can prevent infections and parasites. And when it comes to washing up, birds are some of the most enthusiastic bathers in the Animal Kingdom. Just ask anyone who has seen a flock of songbirds splash in a birdbath!

Splish, Splash, Ahhhhh!

Some birds bathe so enthusiastically that they splash all the water out of their “bathtub.” Others seek out ponds, lakes, rivers, or oceans for bathing. Some wait patiently in the treetops for their afternoon shower, while quite a few make use of puddles left by a summer storm.

At the San Diego Zoo, we get to see many different bird species enjoying baths in their own way. A pied imperial pigeon Ducula bicolor may become shy and shuffle away when she sees a keeper approach. However, if that keeper uses a hose to lightly mist the bird, her behavior begins to change. First, she cocks her head sideways, and her eyes get droopy. Then her whole body leans to the side until she looks ready to fall off her perch. Finally, if she’s very relaxed, she will close her eyes, drape a wing over her head, and let the water roll down the side of her body. She is the picture of tranquility.

Flamingos are the exact opposite. In the wild, these long-legged birds may spend most of their lives in water no deeper than a foot or two. For them, having a good bath requires some gusto. A bathing flamingo squats and repeatedly dips its head and neck into the water while flapping its wings wildly. If caught in the right light, the spray from a few bathing flamingos creates a halo of sparkling droplets around these vibrant birds.

Opposite page: Wetter is better for this northern purple roller Coracias naevia.

This page (from top): An emerald dove Chalcophaps indica splashes at the edge of the water; a collared imperial pigeon Ducula mullerii stretches to catch a light mist; and Caribbean flamingos Phoenicopterus ruber ruber make a splash.

SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL

SANDIEGOZOO.ORG

17

California condors Gymnogyps californianus greet the sun with open wings—all the better to collect its warmth.

Other species have their own methods of bathing. The dollarbirds Eurystomus orientalis and purple rollers Coracias naevia— ever full of drama—droop their wings in front of their body and do a “drowned rat” impersonation. Starlings are drawn to wet foliage. By hosing down a tree in the Owens Aviary, a keeper can entice the whole flock of metallic starlings Aplonis metallica to fly straight into the branches, where they flap, jump, chirp, and twist around until they emerge soaked and sparkling clean. Rhinoceros hornbills Buceros rhinoceros begin preening their feathers like crazy the moment they feel rain. In addition to getting clean, it may be that preening in the rain is one way these canopy-dwelling birds get their drinking water.

Some Like It Dry Wet isn’t the only way to go—other species take a completely different approach. Some birds seem to wait the whole day for their dust bath. The common house sparrow Passer domesticus and the California quail Callipepla californica are two examples of feathery friends that take their baths in dirt. Why not use water, like most birds? Well, both of these species are social and spend most of their day on the ground—two behaviors that may make them more prone to mites and other ectoparasites. A good dirt bath provides the thorough, abrasive scrubbing these birds need to help keep their feathers clean and the mites at bay.

Moments in the Sun As much as a dove may love her shower, flamingos their pool party, or ground birds their dust, all birds seem to agree: nothing beats a good sunbath! Just as a water bath serves several purposes, sun-

18

ZOONOOZ

SEPTEMBER 2013

bathing does different things for different birds. California condors Gymnogyps californianus use the sun to warm themselves after a cold night. At dawn, these birds face the sun, open their broad wings, and quietly soak up the day’s first light. Warming up the ol’ flight muscles before taking a leap from a cliffside nest is a good idea.

Thermal regulation is only one benefit to sunbathing, however.

The Zoo’s secretary birds Sagittarius serpentarius frequently bathe in the summer’s powerful afternoon rays. Because they spend most of their time on the ground, what they may be doing is trying to “cook” certain parasites that can overheat if they don’t move to a cooler patch of feathers. Once the bugs are out in the open, the secretary bird attacks! Preening after a sunbath is an efficient way for the bird to catch the freeloaders—and have a small snack while they’re at it.

The white-breasted cormorants Phalacrocorax lucidus in the Zoo’s African marsh exhibit sunbathe simply to dry off. Unlike ducks, water does not roll off a cormorant’s back; rather, these birds’ feathers actually soak up water. Flooded feathers make the bird heavier, allowing cormorants to dive underwater for fish more easily than buoyant ducks. Yet, there is a downside to wet feathers.

The soaked bird could become dangerously cold, and a cormorant’s feathers could become brittle if they are always wet. Cormorants quickly dry themselves by sitting in a sunny spot, holding their wings out, and lightly flapping them while fluffing their feathers.

Luckily for us, birds aren’t shy about indulging in public baths.

Whether it’s a flock of songbirds enthusiastically splashing around a backyard birdbath or an emerald dove in Owens Aviary laying sideways in a patch of sun, eyes closed and wing up without a care in the world, it’s not hard to find a bird enjoying bath time.

Characteristically Koala From nose to toes to rounded rump, koalas are well-suited for life in the trees.

See them in action for yourself at the Zoo’s Conrad Prebys Australian Outback exhibit!

FUR: A koala’s fuzzy appearance belies the reality that its fur is quite coarse. Described as feeling like sheep’s wool, the koala’s dense coat protects it from both extremely hot and cold conditions. It’s also water resistant, so a rainy day is no problem. The color of the fur can vary, depending on which part of Australia the individual is from; koalas in the south usually have thicker, darker fur than those in the north.

NOSE: Big nose, big role! The sense of smell is one of a koala’s best senses.

A foraging koala spends a great deal of time sniffing out just the right bit of eucalyptus. This helps the animal get the most nutritious leaves and avoid non-edible ones. Although able to process some of the toxins in eucalyptus leaves, there are some eucalyptus species that are even poisonous to koalas. A keen sense of smell plays a vital role in koala communication as well, as males leave scent marks on trees to both welcome females and warn off intruding fellows.

MALE KOALA SCENT GLAND: Males have a small, bare patch of skin on the chest where the scent gland is located. When the male rubs this spot against a tree or branch, a sticky brown secretion spreads his special smell. Varying amounts of 40 chemicals give each male koala his own signature scent for attracting females and warding off other males.

MOUTH: Koalas make several different vocalizations, from snores to screams to bellows. Both sexes bellow, but males seem to do it more often. Our researchers are trying to understand why they make this sound—is it to tell other males to stay away or to invite females to visit?

RUMP: Koalas are sedentary animals that sleep for long periods as they digest their food. To stay out of the reach of predators like dingoes, they curl up in the crook of a tree. A rounded rear end, curved spine, and barely-there tail allow koalas to fit into a snug spot for a snooze. Extra-thick fur on the rump provides padding against the hard branches.

ARMS: Strong arm and shoulder muscles help a koala climb 150 feet to the top of a tree and enable it to leap between branches. Being on the ground all the time would be a disadvantage, because predators could easily catch a koala.

FEET: Count the digits on a koala’s foot, and you’ll tally five. The feet are perfect tools for gripping branches and do double duty as a grooming apparatus: two of the toes are close together and work like a comb when raked through the fur. These tree dwellers also have one clawless toe that acts like a thumb.

Want more koalas? Scan this code to get the free ZOONOOZ magazine app for your iPad and download our special koala issue.

HINDGUT: Eucalyptus leaves may not contain as much nutrition as other plant material, but they’re plentiful in the koalas’ native range—and no one else really eats them. That’s because eucalyptus leaves contain toxic compounds that are poisonous to most other animals. Koalas, however, have a special bacteria in their digestive tract that breaks down the toxins while nutrients are absorbed from the leaves.

FEMALE KOALA POUCH: Like all marsupials, female koalas have a pouch in which they carry their baby, called a joey. Many marsupials, like kangaroos, have a pouch that opens upward, toward their head. But koala moms have a pouch that opens toward their hind legs. After the tiny joey is born, it uses strong forelimbs and hands to crawl from the birth canal into its mother’s pouch. Inside the pouch are two nipples. The joey latches onto one and stays snug and safe, drinking milk and growing for about six months.

HANDS: Koala hands and feet curl around tree branches effectively. Each hand has two—count ‘em, two— opposable thumbs that give koalas an extra bit of grasping ability. Rough, ridged pads on the hands and feet aid their grip and provide traction. And, of course, those long, sharp claws for clutching tree bark help their clinging capability.

sandiegozoo.org/zoonooz

SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL

SANDIEGOZOO.ORG

19

Let Your Wild Ones Meet Ours!

Kids Free in October October means pumpkins, fall leaves, and great weather in San Diego. It also means kids receive free admission all month long at the Zoo and Safari Park. Kids Free, presented by Mission Fed, gives children and their families a great opportunity to discover nature with a month of fun activities. Check out sandiegozoo.org/kidsfree for the full schedule (available for viewing starting in late September), and come explore the great outdoors with us!

15% OFF ALL ANIMAL ADOPTIONS sandiegozoo.org/adopt

Treat them to a tiger, charm them with a cheetah, or even please them with a panda! Start your holiday shopping early and enjoy this discount on any online adoption package.

Offer valid September 1–October 31, 2013.

Visit sandiegozoo.org/adopt or call 619-557-3914. To redeem online, enter COUPON CODE ASZW0913 at checkout.

No limit. Not valid at any on-grounds adoption booths.

SEPTEMBER 2013 MEMBER SPECIAL

SEPTEMBER–DECEMBER 2013 MEMBER SPECIAL

$1 OFF SOUVENIR SIPPERS

SAVE $15 PER PERSON ON A FLIGHTLINE SAFARI

Redeem this coupon at any San Diego Zoo or Safari Park food location where sippers are sold and receive $1 off on a 32-ounce sipper filled with a soft drink or iced tea.

Free refills on day of purchase with receipt!

Offer valid September 1–30, 2013.

Not valid with any other offer or discount. Not valid for alcoholic beverages. Present your valid San Diego Zoo Global membership card at time of purchase.

(Discount not available September 1, November 27–30, and December 26–31, 2013.)

Soar from a ridgetop along a zip-line cable, gliding about 2/3 of a mile over exotic animals and field exhibits on a Flightline Safari at the Safari Park. Call 619-718-3000 and confirm space now. Provide PROMOTION CODE 225006 at time of reservation.

Offer valid September 2–December 25, 2013.

Space is limited. Age and weight restrictions apply. Prices, hours, and schedules are subject to change without notice. Safari Park admission and parking are not included. Not valid for prior reservations. Not valid in conjunction with any other offers or discounts. Offer valid through advance phone reservations only. Customer must provide membership number and PROMOTION CODE 225006 at time of booking. Limit 4 per membership number. Other restrictions may apply.

OCTOBER 2013 MEMBER SPECIAL

NOVEMBER–DECEMBER 2013 MEMBER SPECIALS

HOLIDAY ORNAMENTS

HOLIDAY SAVINGS FOR MEMBERS

Members receive a 10% discount on all holiday ornaments, including our 2013 annual ornament celebrating the opening of the Conrad Prebys Australian Outback! Valid at the General Store, KidStore, and ZooStore at the San Diego Zoo, and Safari Outfitters and the Bazaar at the Safari Park. No limit while supplies last.

Offer valid October 1–31, 2013.

Not valid with any other offer or discount. Show valid San Diego Zoo Global membership card at time of purchase.

Members receive a 10% discount on any gift shop purchase.

Valid at all stores at the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park.

No limit while supplies last.

Offer valid November 1–December 31, 2013.

Not valid with any other offer or discount. Show valid San Diego Zoo Global membership card at time of purchase.

SEPTEMBER–DECEMBER 2013 MEMBER SPECIALS

SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER 2013 MEMBER SPECIAL

Well,Well

Water Conservation at the Safari Park

By Wendy Perkins STAFF WRITER

Photo by Ken Bohn SDZG PHOTOGRAPHER

22

ZOONOOZ

SEPTEMBER 2013

Lush, colorful landscaping,

trees for shade, grass for grazing—the Safari Park has it all, as well as an intricate, and massive, irrigation system that makes it possible. During the last couple of decades, keeping everything well-watered has become more efficient, thanks to Park employees’ ingenuity and dedication to conserving water.

Realizing Pipe Dreams Step by step, drop by drop, the Park’s horticulture team has made changes both big and small to increase water conservation. Among the first actions was to stop leaks as soon as possible. The tricky part was that there was no comprehensive map to show which shut-off valve affected which pipe. For one full summer and into the next year, Wayne Broadway, Charles Fleuret, and Mark Huston from the Horticulture Department mapped the maze of pipes and valves using GIS (Geographic Information System) technology. Stopping water loss quickly is important for more than one reason: it not only prevents wasting precious water but also cuts down on soil erosion that could create dangerous terrain for our hoofed animals.

More Than a Drop in the Bucket In the 1990s, funding from the San Diego County Water Authority supported the creation of a reservoir on Park property. “That meant we would be taking less potable water from the public supply,” explained Cary Sharp, curator of horticulture at the Safari Park. “The water from that reservoir was used to irrigate all the landscaping in the guest parking lot and nearby areas.” At that time, the Park’s vast field enclosures were irrigated with reclaimed and well water, but the rest of the greenery had been dependent on potable water (water taken from San Diego County’s system). We were off to a good start but still had more to do. Through perseverance, planning, and support from donors, today we’re almost there!

Well Wishes Currently, the majority of the Safari Park plants’ thirst is quenched by water from two wells. One fills the East Africa and South Africa ponds; from there, water is pumped to irrigate the field habitats. The horticulture team is hoping to get funding to place a 500,000-gallon tank on an elevated spot in the North Africa habitat. The cost-free power of gravity would be harnessed to move the water down the hill to water all of the gardens.

“One of our long-term goals is to incorporate more gravity-fed systems,” said Charles.

“When we aren’t pumping, we save on energy and maintenance costs, and this can be put toward animal and plant conservation projects.”

“Another major savings is the cost of the water itself,” Cary pointed out. “Well water costs us about $1 per 1,000 gallons, whereas city water would cost about $5 for the same amount.” Within a 7-month construction period, the irrigation team converted the Park’s systems, saving 14 million gallons of city water and $53,000 in just the first 6 months of operation.

In addition to a water tank, funding for a third well is on the Park’s water conservation wish list. “A supplemental well would also serve as a backup if we need to service one of the two wells,” said Charles. “That would strengthen our self-sufficiency and, again, allow more resources to go to San Diego Zoo Global conservation programs.”

The Safari Park horticulture team and San Diego Zoo Global would like to thank Peg and Peri Urvek for supporting our efforts to conserve water.

SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL

SANDIEGOZOO.ORG

23

24

ZOONOOZ

SEPTEMBER 2013

what’s in store

2.

1.

3.

4.

6.

Visit our shops at the Zoo and Safari Park to purchase these featured items.

Items and prices may vary based on availability.

Available in select stores.

1. Large Senegal Basket $215 2. Orange Senegal Basket $85 3. Raffia Giraffe $13.95 4. Multi-Color Senegal Basket $115 5. Raffia Lemur $24.95 6. Large Raffia Giraffe $29.95

5.

SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL

SANDIEGOZOO.ORG

25

support

ERNEST RADY

There’s No Place Quite Like Home Success in business helps define Ernest Rady, whose recent significant gift to the San Diego Zoo for our largest expansion project ever—Africa Rocks—is known as the Rady Challenge (see sidebar). When the $10 million challenge was announced at a ceremony this summer, it was about giving back to the community and leaving a legacy for the children of this city, a city he loves. Ernest does not hesitate to tell you that while he and his wife, Evelyn, have lived in other cities, none of them can compare to San Diego. No matter where he has been, whether on vacation or on a business trip, he is always happy to return home.

Yet Ernest Rady is not a native San Diegan. He was born and raised in Manitoba, Canada, where he remembers some incredibly cold winters that he compares to “living in Siberia!” Ernest was just a teenager when his physician father died, and he was left to manage the family’s affairs: “I became the father in our family.” This was just the beginning of a long career in business, and he attributes his success to the life lessons he took to heart.

Ernest’s father used to say that success is nine parts perspiration and one part inspiration—you have to work hard to get ahead. Later, Ernest added more to this formula: “Like what you do—have fun while you work—and you will be successful.” And when asked about his most meaningful business advice gleaned over the past 50 years, he answers without hesitation: “Always be fair. Don’t drive too hard a bargain and treat people fairly.”

26

ZOONOOZ

SEPTEMBER 2013

Help Us Meet the

Rady Challenge!

THE $10 MILLION ERNEST RADY CHALLENGE has launched a 25-month fund-raising campaign to support the largest expansion in the San Diego Zoo’s history: Conrad Prebys Africa Rocks, an 8-acre exhibit area that will replace Dog and Cat Canyon. Ernest Rady has pledged to contribute a $10 million challenge grant if the Zoo can raise $20 million of matching funds by August 2015.

Africa Rocks will include a Madagascar habitat and the 65-foot-tall Rady Falls, the largest man-made waterfall in San Diego, which will be home to dwarf crocodiles. The Madagascar habitat will showcase seven species of lemurs, including the red ruffed lemur and the elusive aye-aye, the largest nocturnal primate on Earth.

“Ernest Rady’s challenge gift is remarkable,” Doug Myers, San Diego Zoo Global president and CEO, said. “The San Diego Zoo was created by Dr. Harry Wegeforth almost 100 years ago for the children of San Diego. Mr. Rady follows in Dr. Wegeforth’s footsteps by making possible a new, unique experience for children of all ages that provides them with opportunities to explore more than five different African habitats.”

Conversations with Ernest always come back to his love of business as well as striving for success in each venture. That may be why he has a friend in Conrad Prebys, another great San Diegan who is also a successful businessman and philanthropist, as well as a strong Zoo supporter. When Conrad invited Ernest to join him for breakfast at his namesake Elephant Care Center some months ago, Ernest was already thinking about a gift for the Zoo. He admires the Zoo for the incredible organization it has become, turning 100 acres into the world’s most famous urban zoo. He believes his gift will also be great for the city’s economy, for tourism, and, most of all, for its children.

While Ernest Rady’s name is synonymous with both Rady Children’s Hospital and the Rady School of Management at UC San Diego, his recent gift to the Zoo is all part of the legacy he hopes to leave for a city he loves. As he says, “For everyone to have a complete life, they must do something to help others.” The Rady Challenge is a chance for everyone to participate and support the Zoo, a place that was originally created for the children of San Diego. Ernest Rady always plans ahead to the next business meeting, round of golf, walk on the beach, or taking the grandchildren to the Zoo. It’s all good, because there’s no place quite like home.

You can help secure the future for wildlife!

Heritage Guild

Visit sandiegozoo.org/africarocks for more information about Africa Rocks or to contribute to the Rady Challenge.

By creating a Charitable Gift Annuity or leaving the Zoological Society of San Diego in your will or trust, you can help protect wildlife. To receive more information, please call 619-744-3352 or visit our website at

zoolegacy.org.

SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL

SANDIEGOZOO.ORG

27

from the archives

“There’s a rhinoceros in the sewer!”

For the Zoo staff in the 1940s, Trudy the tapir was

synonymous with trouble. To the casual observer, Trudy appeared to be an unassuming Malayan tapir, attractive with her black-andsilver coat but otherwise innocuous. For her keepers, it was another story. As Ken Stott, Jr., then associate editor of ZOONOOZ, wrote, “Many an old acquaintance of hers may yet find it difficult to speak her name without a shudder.”

You see, Trudy was a persistent and talented escape artist. On her first day at the Zoo, she managed to squeeze her way out of her pen, only to find herself in the next exhibit with two very displeased hippos. A keeper managed to distract the two charging behemoths just long enough for Trudy to get to safety. That scare might have been enough to deter most tapirs from wandering—but not Trudy.

Late one night, Zoo Director Belle Benchley’s phone rang with the news that Trudy had disappeared. A flashlight hunt in the Zoo that night and search of the Balboa Park area at daybreak turned up nothing. Two days passed, with no word about Trudy’s whereabouts.

Then a frantic phone call came in, with a hysterical voice screaming that there was a rhinoceros in the sewer, and what was the Zoo going to do about it?

28

ZOONOOZ

SEPTEMBER 2013

Rushing to the downtown address, Zoo staff found a crowd surrounding a small opening into the street. It led to a large, subterranean passage designed to gather rainwater. Apparently a city worker had gone in to check the waterway and had been confronted by a “rhinoceros.” He had flung his tools and run for his life to the nearest manhole. The Zoo’s keepers went down, and it was, indeed, Trudy. They herded her to a larger opening, where she emerged to flashbulbs going off as the press took her photo for the newspapers.

Upon her return to the Zoo, staff went to work reinforcing her enclosure. As Ken wrote, “Such a ridiculous occurrence could not be repeated.” But Trudy had other ideas. One day, she somehow managed to snap the lock on her door and headed out for yet another adventure. She was discovered rather quickly, though, as “An indignant woman informed us that there was a wild animal in her backyard. She didn’t like it and would we come out immediately and take it away.” The keepers were more than happy to oblige.

This time, staff went over every inch of Trudy’s enclosure and reinforced it as if it were Fort Knox. Trudy tried, but she was unable to get through the defenses again. After her initial notoriety, she settled into respectability—but, as Ken hastened to add, “not by choice, mind you!”

CELEBRATING ANIMAL AMBASSADORS A S PEC I A L D I N N E R E V E N T AT T H E S A FA R I PA R K

Sunday, September 22, 2013 Hunte Nairobi Pavilion 5:30 p.m. $69.95 per person for members $81.95 per person for nonmembers Fall is a glorious time of year at the Safari Park, and we’re celebrating with a salute to our popular and talented animal ambassadors. Join us for a playful and fun evening in which you’ll encounter a variety of different animals, including one of our spectacular cheetahs! Enjoy a hosted bar and appetizers from 5:30 to 6 p.m. while you meet animals. Then savor a lovely four-course meal (with no-host bar available) prepared by our chefs as the amazing animal encounters continue throughout the evening. Bring friends and family to enjoy this special occasion!

Sunday, October 20, 2013 Hunte Nairobi Pavilion 5:30 p.m. $39.95 per person for members, $51.95 for nonmembers; $18.95 for child members ages 3 through 11, $30.95 for child nonmembers

Wunderbar! The Safari Park’s joyful salute to October is back, with live music, a delicious buffet of German-inspired specialties, one complimentary glass of beer (for those over 21), a variety of German beers for purchase, and great company to get into the spirit of the season. Raise a glass with us—Prost!

Make your reservations today—call 619-718-3000.

Visit sdzsafaripark.org/planyourtrip/dining for details and the complete menus.

THE

SAVE DATE! SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2013 San Diego’s Wildest Tasting Event!

7:30 p.m. to midnight at the Sample from more than 150 restaurants, wineries and breweries. Enjoy live music on four stages, dancing, silent auction, and special animal encounters presented

by Joan Embery and Zoo animal trainers.

TICKETS START AT $90.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! www.zoofoodandwine.com 619-718-3000 Proceeds benefit San Diego Zoo Global’s wildlife conservation efforts.

ALBERT’S RE S TAUR ANT FALL 2013 E V ENTS

Join us for a salute to autumn!

MEMBER APPRECIATION DINNERS

Brewmaster Dinner FEATURING ALPINE BEER COMPANY Saturdays, October 5 and 12, 2013 Seating begins at 5 p.m.

Saturday, September 14, 2013 6 p.m. Reception with animal ambassadors at Treehouse Plaza 6:45 p.m. Dinner in Albert’s Restaurant Alpine Beer Company representatives will be on hand to present brews paired with a gourmet meal created by Executive Chef Chris Mirguet and Albert’s Chef Charles Boukas. It’s the perfect start to the fall season. $79 per person, plus tax and gratuity.

Guests will be seated at tables of 8; must be 21 years or older to attend.

To thank San Diego Zoo Global members for your ongoing support and enthusiasm for Albert’s Restaurant, this year’s Fall Member Appreciation Dinners will be a magnificent dining adventure. Executive Chef Chris Mirguet and Albert’s Chef Charles Boukas are preparing a selection of Mediterranean cuisine for your enjoyment—we hope you can join us!

$34.95 per person, plus tax and gratuity.

Make your reservations today—call 619-557-3964.

Visit sandiegozoo.org/zoo/alberts for more information and complete menus.