ZOONOOZ SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL
JANUARY 2016
Flightless Birds Bear Essentials Animal Acupuncture 100 Years Of History Elephant Foot Tree
Saturday, February 13 and Sunday, February 14, 2016 Seating begins at 5 p.m. Join us for an elegant meal prepared by Executive Chef Chris Mirguet and Albert’s Chef Charles Boukas, just for you and that special someone. $105 per couple, plus tax and gratuity. Maximum party size is eight people. Menu substitutions are not available for this event. For reservations, please call 619-557-3964 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. daily. Reservations secured with credit card.
Saturday, February 13 and Sunday, February 14, 2016 Animal presentation begins at 5:30 p.m. with a no-host bar and hors d’oeuvres. Four-course meal begins at 6 p.m. Join us for an elegant meal prepared by Chef Joshua Mireles and Sous Chef Abriann Ramirez, just for you and that special someone. $105 per couple, plus tax. Guests will be seated at their own table. For reservations, please call 619-718-3000.
January 2016 VOL. LXXXIX–NO. 01
Nooz Notes 2
Chairman’s Note; President’s Note; Save the Date; Centennial; What’s In Store; It’s Only a Number
Graphically Speaking 8 Flight Not Fancied
When it comes to winging it, some avian wonders say, “No thanks, I’d rather walk!” BY AMY BLANDFORD AND WENDY PERKINS
Cover Story
10 It Bears Repeating
From amazing Arctic hunters to black-and-white wonders from the Far East, get your bearings on members of the Ursidae family. BY PEGGY SCOTT
Features
16 The Point of Acupuncture
Zoo Veterinarian Beth Bicknese uses acupuncture on some animals to alleviate discomfort. BY KARYL CARMIGNANI
19 Wild Perks
Get the scoop on the new benefits program for San Diego Zoo and Safari Park donor club members.
20 100 Years of the San Diego Zoo, Part 2
The remarkable story of the San Diego Zoo continues, exploring our second decade and the early staff’s determination to never give up. BY KAREN E. WORLEY
24 Rain Saver: The Elephant Foot Tree The feature this plant is named for is also its most important adaptation. BY WENDY PERKINS
More
©
CELEBRATE OUR CENTENNIAL May 14, 2016 is the day to party—and you’re invited! Visit our centennial website sandiegozoo100.org.
26 Support 28 That Was Then 29 Member Specials ON THE COVER: Polar bear Ursus maritimus PHOTO BY: Tammy Spratt, SDZG Photographer
N O OZ N OT E S
CHAIRMAN’S NOTE ROBERT B. HORSMAN
Mask, $210. Woven Kuba cloth, $80.
Mask, $210.
Mask, $395. Woven Kuba cloth, $80.
Mask, $295.
WHAT’S IN STORE?
Out of Africa
Tribal artists create masks that represent cultural and religious themes from various African communities. This collection features masks from the Bobo, BWA, Bamileke, and Cameroon tribes. Visit our main stores at the Zoo and Safari Park to shop for these and other unique finds. 2 / ZOONOOZ / JANUARY 2016
Hope Against Extinction
O
ne hundred years ago, the roar of a lion sparked the dream that has become the world-famous San Diego Zoo. It inspired Dr. Harry Wegeforth to start a bold new endeavor, to build a haven for wildlife that he dedicated to the children of San Diego. Even when it seemed the odds were against him, he continued the fight to make his dream a reality. Today, San Diego Zoo Global is known worldwide for our outstanding accomplishments in exhibits, education, and animal care, and for our success in conservation research and endangered species recovery. But Dr. Harry was not one to stop striving when there was more to do, and neither are we, the employees, members, volunteers, and supporters who are bringing Dr. Harry’s dream into its next 100 years. Time is running out for many of Earth’s animals—as we so poignantly felt with the passing of Nola, our much-loved northern white rhino, this past November. As one of only four left of her kind, she was, and continues to be, a symbol of the crucial importance of preserving the species that share our world. As we celebrate our centennial, we forge ahead with hope and purpose toward our vision to lead the fight against extinction. Three calls to action guide us along the way. One is to ignite a passion for wildlife in those who visit the Zoo and the Park, take part in our education programs, and interact with us through our websites and digital experiences. A second is to grow our worldwide leadership in animal and plant care by uniting partners and collaborators to build effective wildlife conservation networks. And a third is to fight to save critically endangered species for future generations, employing the latest in science, technology, and animal care to meet the challenges of an uncertain future. Let’s all take the roar forward, and make a difference for endangered species, and for the future of wildlife.
FOR BEING PART OF SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL WOULD LIKE TO THANK OUR 2015 SPONSORS FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF OUR WORLDWIDE CONSERVATION EFFORTS. WE LOOK FORWARD TO CONTINUING OUR PARTNERSHIP IN 2016.
YOU HELP MAKE US WORLD FAMOUS!
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SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL
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Interested in learning more about sponsorship opportunities for your business? Contact our Partnership Marketing Department at partnership@sandiegozoo.org
N O OZ N OT E S
Save the Date
JANUARY 23 AND 30 Photo Workshop: Beginning Wildlife Photography Join our professional photographers at this two-session class, open to guests 16 or older. Classes run from 6:30 to 10 a.m. Call 619-718-3000 or visit sandiegozoo.org. (Z)
What’s happening at the Zoo and Park this month and next (Z) Zoo events (P) Park events
JANUARY 2, 3, AND 30 Sunrise Surprise Strolls Enjoy the Zoo before it opens for the day, walk the grounds with experienced Zoo educators, learn the “inside secrets,” and hear stories about special animals. Call 619-718-3000 or visit sandiegozoo.org. (Z) JANUARY 9, 16, AND 23 KinderTots Learning fun for the little ones! Children ages 18 months to 3 years, with an adult companion, discover animals—and meet some up close. For reservations, call 619-557-3962 or visit sandiegozoo.org. (Z) JANUARY 15 Plant Day and Orchid Odyssey The Zoo is home to a world-class botanical garden with more than 700,000 plants, including many rare and beautiful specimens. Take a self-guided walking tour or a Botanical Bus Tour, and get a rare look inside the Zoo’s Orchid House. (Z)
JANUARY 15, 16, 22, AND 23 KinderNights Animal interaction and fun for children ages 3 to 6 years, with an adult. To make reservations, call 619-557-3962 or visit sandiegozoo.org. (Z) JANUARY 23 Albert’s Winter Brewmaster Dinner Enjoy a fun evening of unique brews and fantastic food at Albert’s. Guests must be at least 21 years of age. For reservations, call 619718-3000 or book online at zoo.sandiegozoo.org/ dining-events. (Z) FEBRUARY 6, 7, AND 27 Sunrise Surprise Strolls Enjoy the Zoo before it opens for the day, walk the grounds with experienced Zoo educators, learn the “inside secrets,” and hear stories about special animals. Call 619-718-3000 or visit sandiegozoo.org. (Z)
Discover the secret lives of animals in this adults-only Valentine’s Day-theme sleepover at the Safari Park. Relax in comfy tents, surrounded by the sights and sounds of wildlife. For reservations, call 619-718-3000. (P) FEBRUARY 13 AND 14 Valentine’s Day Dinner Celebrate with a scrumptious meal prepared by Safari Park chefs Joshua Mireles and Abriann Ramirez. For reservations, call 619-718-3000 or book online at sdzsafaripark.org/ dining-events. (P)
FEBRUARY 13 AND 14 Roar & Snore Safari: Animal Amore
FEBRUARY 13 AND 14 Albert’s Valentine’s Day Celebration of Love Treat your sweetheart
to a memorable dinner prepared by San Diego Zoo Executive Chef Chris Mirguet and Albert’s Chef Charles Boukas. For reservations, call 619557-3964 and for details visit zoo.sandiegozoo. org/dining-events. (Z) FEBRUARY 13, 20, AND 27 KinderTots Learning fun for the little ones! Children ages 18 months to 3 years, with an adult companion, discover animals—and meet some up close. For reservations, call 619-557-3962 or visit sandiegozoo.org. (Z) FEBRUARY 19 Plant Day and Orchid Odyssey The Zoo is home to a world-class botanical garden with more
than 700,000 plants, including many rare and beautiful specimens. Take a self-guided walking tour or a Botanical Bus Tour, and get a rare look inside the Zoo’s Orchid House. (Z) FEBRUARY 19, 20, 26, AND 27 KinderNights Animal-themed fun for children ages 3 to 6 years with an adult. For reservations, call 619-557-3962 or visit sandiegozoo.org. (Z) FEBRUARY 20 AND 27 Photo Workshop: Intermediate Wildlife Photography Join our professional photographers at this two-session class, open to guests 16 or older. Call 619-718-3000 or visit sandiegozoo.org. (Z)
PRESIDENT/CEO’S NOTE DOUGLAS G. MYERS
100 Years in the Making
H
appy New Year—and welcome to the San Diego Zoo’s centennial year! This is such a tremendous milestone for our organization: 100 years of trials and triumphs; hard work, struggles, and amazing achievements; and a passion for innovation in animal care, meaningful and lasting education, and the conservation of wildlife and endangered species. I am excited about everything that we have planned this year to celebrate, including fascinating looks back through our history, funfilled festivities at the Zoo, a spectacular community event in Balboa Park on May 14, 2016, and beautiful films and stories about the power and hope of conservation—our future as we strive to end extinction. It’s going to be a truly amazing year for the San Diego Zoo, and I look forward to sharing it with you!
4 / ZOONOOZ / JANUARY 2016
Let’s Talk Follow @sandiegozoo & @sdzsafaripark. Share your #SanDiegoZoo & #SDZSafariPark memories on Twitter & Instagram.
r ne ing
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t s e r Din a m w featu e r r B i ke H Bre e s wi s
ng
Saturday, January 23,
2016
6 p.m. Reception with Animal Ambassadors in Treetops Banquet Room 6:45 p.m. Dinner in Albert’s Restaurant
Join us at Albert’s Restaurant to welcome Mike Hess Brewing as they introduce their stellar San Diego brews. Paired with fantastic fare created by Executive Chef Chris Mirguet and Albert’s Chef Charles Boukas, it will be a night to enjoy!
MEMBER PRICE: $69 per person, plus tax and gratuity NONMEMBER PRICE: $82 per person, plus tax and gratuity
Guests will be seated at tables of eight.
Must be 21 years of age to attend. Menu substitutions are not available for this event.
For reservations, book online or call 619-718-3000.
N O OZ N OT E S
SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL “Zoorama” host Doug Oliver (left), Zoo mammal curator George Pournelle, and Bob the orangutan on an episode.
OFFICERS Robert B. Horsman, Chairman Sandra A. Brue, Vice Chairman Judith A. Wheatley, Secretary Steven G. Tappan, Treasurer BOARD OF TRUSTEES M. Javade Chaudhri Berit N. Durler Richard B. Gulley Clifford W. Hague Linda Lowenstine, D.V.M., Ph.D. Patricia L. Roscoe
It’s only a number A new year brings promise, especially at the San Diego Zoo! Here are a few of the milestones we’ve marked in the month of January throughout the years.
1936
1955
1976
1992
On January 8, Babe and Kasper became the parents of the Zoo’s first grizzly bear cubs, a pair that surprised keepers with their growling prowess.
“Zoorama,” the San Diego Zoo’s first live TV show, began production on January 9, offering San Diegans a peek into zoo life–from their living rooms!
The San Diego Zoo celebrated the hatching of 12 bearded dragons on January 29 and 30, believed to be the first in the world to hatch at a zoo.
The first zoo-raised California condors were reintroduced to the species’ native habitat on January 14, including a male from the San Diego Wild Animal Park.
ZOONOOZ
®
PUBLISHED SINCE 1926 JANUARY 2016 VOL. LXXXIX–NO. 01 MANAGING EDITOR
KAREN E. WORLEY
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
PEGGY SCOTT
STAFF WRITERS
WENDY PERKINS KARYL CARMIGNANI COPY EDITOR
ESTON ELLIS DESIGNER
KERRI ABRAMS SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL PHOTOGRAPHERS
KEN BOHN TAMMY SPRATT
The Zoological Society of San Diego was founded in October 1916 by Harry M. Wegeforth, M.D., as a private, nonprofit corporation that now does business as San Diego Zoo Global. The printed ZOONOOZ® magazine (ISSN 0044-5282) is currently published bimonthly, in January, March, May, July, September, and November. Publisher is San Diego Zoo Global, at 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92103, 619-231-1515. Periodicals postage paid at San Diego, California, USA, and at additional mailing offices. ADDRESS CHANGES: Please send to Membership Department, P.O. Box 120271, San Diego, CA 92112. Copyright® 2016 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.
SAN DIEGO ZOO HOURS January 1–3: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. January 4–31: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. February 1–29: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
SAFARI PARK HOURS January 1–31: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. February 1–12: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. February 13–15: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. February 16–29: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
WEBSITE sandiegozoo.org
PHONE 619-718-3000
Annual Memberships: Dual $135, new; $120, renewal. Single $111, new; $99, renewal. Each membership includes unlimited entrance to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
ONLINE VERSION OF PRINT ZOONOOZ®
Subscription to ZOONOOZ magazine: $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, for subscription information.
FSC® is not responsible for any calculations on saving resources by choosing this paper.
issuu.com/sdzglobal
DIGITAL IMAGING TECHNICIAN
TAMMY SPRATT
DESIGN AND PRODUCTION
DAMIEN LASATER KIM TURNER HEIDI SCHMID-ROMERO LISA BISSI JENNIFER MACEWEN
PREPRESS AND PRINTING
QUAD GRAPHICS
6 / ZOONOOZ / JANUARY 2016
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.
TRUSTEES EMERITI Frank C. Alexander Kurt Benirschke, M.D. 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
James Lauth, General Counsel Douglas G. Myers, President/CEO Charles L. Bieler, Executive Director Emeritus
THE FOUNDATION OF SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL OFFICERS Murray H. Hutchison, Chair Maryanne C. Pfister, Vice Chair Susan N. McClellan, Secretary Richard M. Hills, Treasurer Mark A. Stuart, President Robert B. Horsman, Ex officio Douglas G. Myers, Ex officio BOARD OF DIRECTORS Christine L. Andrews Joye D. Blount Rick Bregman Lisa S. Casey Douglas Dawson Berit N. Durler, Ex officio U. Bertram Ellis, Jr. Arthur E. Engel Craig L. Grosvenor Michael Hammes Judith C. Harris Michael E. Kassan Susan B. Major Michael D. McKinnon Thomas Tull Margie Warner Ed Wilson
It’s never too soon to start planning the perfect summer for the kids in your life, and we have Summer Camp experiences at the Zoo and Safari Park that they’re going to love. There are options for every age from toddlers to teenagers, and kids will have a grand time discovering wildlife, exploring outdoors, and jumping right in for hands-on fun.
CHECK OUT THE OPTIONS AT SANDIEGOZOO.ORG AND SDZSAFARIPARK.ORG TO PLAN A SUMMER ADVENTURE YOUR KIDS WON’T FORGET!
G R A P H I C A LLY S P E A K I N G
Flight Not Fancied ILLUSTRATIONS BY AMY BLANDFORD | SDZG ILLUSTRATOR
TEXT BY WENDY PERKINS | STAFF WRITER
All birds have wings, but not all birds fly. The flightless birds that stroll, strut, and swim the planet have adapted to a grounded life—and it shows both inside and out. The honeycombed bones of flying birds lighten their load, yet without the need to take wing, flightless birds do well with dense bones. The feathers of flightless birds differ from their airborne peers, too. Take a closer look at some of the ways flightless birds have made themselves at home on the ground.
WINGING IT Ostriches hold their wings out to either side for balance as they run, and for display behavior.
wing bones keel
Even Keel(ed)
Ostrich
A bird’s keel bone lies mid-chest at a right angle to the breastbone, or sternum. On most birds, the keel bone serves as an anchor for the well-developed muscles used in flight. However, in flightless birds, the keel bone is less pronounced and sometimes even flat, like a raft. In fact, one group of flightless birds is named for this feature: ostriches, emus, kiwis, cassowaries, rheas, and tinamous are ratites, from the classical Latin word ratitius, meaning raft-like.
EGG-CETERA 6 inches long, weighing about 3 pounds; about 2 percent of female’s body weight
*Egg shown in proportion to ostrich
WALK THIS WAY Only bird with a two-toed foot— an adaptation for swift running 8 / ZOONOOZ / JANUARY 2016
LIGHT AS A FEATHER Loosely structured, shaggy feathers
FLUFF FACTOR Feathers lack barbs to connect filaments, so they look more like hair
TAKE WING Vestigial 1-inch-long wings obscured by feathers
*Egg shown in proportion to brown kiwi
Brown Kiwi A SOLID STAND Dense bones support a kiwi’s relatively heavy body.
BEST FOOT FORWARD Thick, splayed toes allow for padding silently along forest floor
NO KEEL, NO BIG DEAL Kiwis have no keel bone at all—their tiny vestigial wings don’t need one.
EGG-STRAORDINARY Largest egg in relation to body size of any bird: 5 inches long, 3 inches wide, weighing nearly 1 pound; about 15 percent of female’s body weight
FEET FIRST Broad, webbed feet aid in steering BIRDS OF A FEATHER Short, broad feathers are closely spaced; those on the flippers are small and scalelike. Have about 100 feathers per square inch— more than most other birds.
South African Penguin POWER BASE The nicely developed keel supports muscles used for swimming.
*Egg shown in proportion to South African penguin
A GOOD EGG KEEL 2 to 3 inches long, More pronounced 3 to 4 ounces keel supports swimming muscles
EGGCETERA 2-3WINGS inches long, 3 WATER to 4 ounces Wings modified into paddle-like flippers
SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL / SANDIEGOZOO.ORG / 9
It Bears Repeating
BY PEGGY SCOTT | ASSOCIATE EDITOR PHOTOS BY KEN BOHN | SDZG PHOTOGRAPHER
10 / ZOONOOZ / JANUARY 2016
PHOTO BY TAMMY SPRATT, SDZG
Getting Reacquainted with the Ursidae Family
From prehistoric cave paintings to literature to sports, bears have long held a special place in mankind’s collective consciousness. In some places, the animal was looked upon with such reverence that members of the cultures were not allowed to speak of it by name. Those in the Cree tribe spoke of the “goodtempered beast,” while Siberian lore includes tales of the “owner of the Earth.” Bears even inhabit the sky in the form of the constellations Ursa major and Ursa minor—these names are Latin for “greater she-bear” and “little bear.” But what is it about these furry-faced, round-eared creatures that so captures our imagination we even see them in the stars? Hali O’Connor, a senior keeper at the Zoo, believes it has something to do with their relatability. “We can see our own emotions in bears,” Hali explains. “They are very capable, independent thinkers with a wide range of complex emotions.”
BEAR ESSENTIALS Members of the Family Ursidae, bears can be found in a wide variety of habitats throughout the Northern Hemisphere and parts of the Southern Hemisphere, on the continents of North America, South America, Europe, and Asia. There are eight bear species in existence today, and the Zoo is home to five of them: the sun bear, polar bear, Andean (or spectacled) bear, North American grizzly bear (a type of brown bear) and, of course, the giant panda. (The other three species are the sloth bear, Asiatic black bear, and American black bear.) And while bear species have their differences, they share some common characteristics: large bodies, stocky legs, round heads with small ears and long snouts; a flat-footed gait, nonretractable claws, and stubby tails. Unless they are looking for mates or are mothers with cubs, bears
prefer a solitary life. They are generally diurnal (active during the day), but can be nocturnal or crepuscular (active at dawn and twilight) when living near people so they can avoid conflicts. If bears possess a “superpower” it’s their sense of smell, but their other abilities are nothing to sneeze at—despite their bulky physique, bears can run, climb, and swim, and they can do it quickly! Most bear species are omnivores, eating whatever they can, but some have pickier palates. Polar bears are almost completely carnivorous, and pandas prefer to dine almost entirely on bamboo. When making a home, bears create their dens in caves and burrows. And while some species occupy a den during the winter for a long period of up to 100 days, they don’t actually hibernate—rather, they experience torpor, a type of deep sleep. This helps them conserve their energy when food sources might be scarce. Bears in more temperate climates are the exception, as they don’t need to—their food is never buried under snow!
HERE COMES THE SUN (BEAR) Sun bears Helarctos malayanus are the smallest of the bear species, and live in tropical and subtropical forests in Southeast Asia. Ranging in size from 3.5 to 4.5 feet in length and weighing from 60 to 140 pounds, sun bears make their homes in trees. They get their common name from the yellowish crescent marking on the chest, which many people think looks like the rising or setting sun. Their short, sleek fur, along with a thick, muscular body, lead to one of their nicknames: “dog bears.” They have great assets right at their fingertips: their four-inch-long claws are great tools for digging to find honey and insects to eat, and for self-defense.
Sun bears are endangered, due to habitat loss from farming, logging, poaching (for both meat and use in folk remedies), and even the pet trade. Two sun bears live at the Zoo. Twenty-year-old Marcella has made a name for herself as the only Bornean sun bear to successfully raise cubs in North America. Marcella’s nose knows what she likes. Senior keeper Todd Speis reports, “One of her favorite enrichments is rubbing a whole onion to bits all over herself, anointing herself with the lovely smell.” Francis, our 18-year-old male, is a secretive, sensitive soul, and was himself rescued from the pet trade. Despite his shyness, “Francy Pants,” as his keepers affectionately call him, sometimes offers his keepers random things from his enclosure (food scraps or pieces of burlap) in exchange for a treat, and also enjoys rubbing new scents on his head.
THE ICE BEAR COMETH Polar bears Ursus maritimus, the largest land carnivore in the world, are marine mammals and spend much of their time on Arctic sea ice. They are found in Alaska, Canada, Russia, Greenland, and Norway (Svalbard). Males can reach 9 feet in length and weigh upwards of 1,500 pounds, with females weighing in at a dainty 200 to 500 pounds and measuring a petite 6 feet long. They feed mostly on ringed seals and bearded seals, but will also devour walrus, beluga whale and bowhead whale carcasses; birds’ eggs, and even the occasional bit of vegetation if need be. Human encroachment on their habitat and the effects of climate change find the polar bear on thin ice—their global population is estimated at only 20,000 to 25,000. There are three polar bears at the Zoo’s Conrad Prebys Polar Bear Plunge, and their personalities are
BEARS: THE STATS
8
The number of bear species left on Earth.
12
The size of a polar bear’s paw in inches.
42
The number of teeth in a grizzly bear’s mouth.
SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL / SANDIEGOZOO.ORG / 11
“wildly different,” notes senior keeper Susan Purtell. “Chinook, at 20, is the oldest. She has a dominant type of personality and is quietly smart about problem solving or accomplishing a task,” Susan explains. “She gets the attention of keepers with silent stares and patiently waits for dinner. On the other hand, 14-year-old Tatqiq is normally boisterous and wants to be noticed! She loudly announces her presence and usually appears to be a very ‘happy go lucky’ type of girl.” Kalluk, the male, is Tatqiq’s brother and is also 14 years old. “He is one big, 1,200-pound, mellow dude,” Susan says, adding that he can often be seen playing with enrichment and with the other bears, particularly his sister, Tatqiq. Kalluk is also the moderator if the two girls happen to fall into an “argument.” “He frequently moves quickly to intervene and resolve any conflict in those talkative, tense moments between Tatqiq and Chinook,” Susan says.
SOUTH AMERICAN SPECTACLE The only bear native to South America, the Andean bear’s Tremarctos ornatus range includes Venezuela, south through Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and into Argentina. Its other common name, spectacled bear, comes from the whitish or cream-color
12 / ZOONOOZ / JANUARY 2016
rings around its eyes that resemble eyeglasses. This light coloring can extend down to the throat and chest, giving each bear a unique set of markings. Nimble for their size (males top out at 350 pounds and can reach 6 feet in length), Andean bears skillfully climb through trees looking for food, such as fruit, bromeliads, or bark. Their long, sharp claws are useful tools for both activities. Turbo, the Zoo’s five-year-old male Andean bear, certainly lives up to his name, according to Hali. “Turbo is an energetic, playful, sometimes-destructive teenage boy,” she says. “He has a zest for life and is quite a skilled nest builder.”
GRIZZLY, NOT GRISLY! The North American grizzly Ursus arctos horribilis is a formidable creature, weighing upwards of 800 pounds, measuring 8 feet tall at the shoulder when standing on his hind legs, and possessing claws the length of an adult human’s finger. The word “grizzly” refers to the grizzled appearance of the bears’ fur. A subspecies of brown bear, the grizzly makes its home in western Canada, Alaska, Washington, Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho. Human land development, logging, and recreation activities can disrupt the bears’ ability to follow their natural food sources, and lead to unfortunate conflict with people. Most bears would rather avoid people—and most likely, that goes both ways. Scout and Montana, the Zoo’s nine-yearold grizzly brothers, are poster bears for their species, and visitors can see how distinctive the boys’ personalities are. “Scout is our athlete, always trying to get his brother to play, while Montana is the serious one, the ‘thinker,’” Hali says. “But they are best buddies. They sleep with their legs draped over each other.”
THE BAMBOO BEAR IN BLACK AND WHITE A national treasure in China, giant pandas Ailuropoda melanoleuca are easily one of the most popu-
This page, clockwise from top left: At nine years old, brother grizzlies Scout and Montana still wrestle and play like cubs. A panda’s long claws help with climbing. Bamboo makes up the majority of a panda’s diet. The lightcolored rings around the eyes give the Andean bear its other common name–the spectacled bear.
This page, clockwise from top right: The sun bear is the smallest bear species. Polar bears Kalluk, Tatqiq, and Chinook have differing personalities but still get along “swimmingly.”
lar bear species. Most people can almost immediately recognize a panda by its characteristic blackand-white coloring. Native only to southwestern China, pandas in the wild live in six small forest fragments where they consume up to 36 pounds of bamboo, each, per day! Habitat destruction, a low reproductive rate, and bamboo shortages have brought the worldwide panda population to only approximately 1,600. Our pandas, Bai Yun, Gao Gao, and Xiao Liwu, are household names to legions of fans, who love the bears for their distinctive personalities. “Bai Yun is our matriarch, mother of six cubs,” explains keeper Jennifer Becerra. “She is ‘Queen Bee’ and always gets what she wants from her keepers. Her favorite scents are peppermint, wintergreen, and cinnamon. If she is given these as enrichment, she rubs them on her head.” Gao Gao is a mellow guy who enjoys lying in his large hay tub, Jennifer says. And Mr. Wu? “He is the thinker,” she adds. “You can see him always debating his next move before he
Bear Necessities
SUN BEARS HELARCTOS MALAYANUS
The sun bear’s long tongue helps it reach insects inside of trees.
does it. He is the most patient of all our panda cubs, when it comes to training for his blood pressure and blood draws.”
BEAR IN MIND Habitat destruction, hunting, and human interference are threatening bear populations around the world. San Diego Zoo Global, along with other conservation organizations, is working hard to address some of the pressures faced by ursids everywhere, and we hope to make their lives much more than just “bearable” for future generations.
Some fun facts about awesome ursids
POLAR BEARS URSUS MARITIMUS
A polar bear’s fur is actually clear. Light reflection makes it appear white.
ANDEAN BEAR TREMARCTOS ORNATUS
The character Paddington Bear is based on the Andean bear.
NORTH AMERICAN GRIZZLY URSUS ARCTOS HORRIBILIS
A grizzly bear’s nose can detect food from miles away.
GIANT PANDA AILUROPODA MELANOLEUCA
At birth, giant pandas are only about the size of a stick of butter.
SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL / SANDIEGOZOO.ORG / 13
FOR TEENS ZOO CORPS
Teens ages 13–17 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $125 per session “Inspiring change for a better tomorrow” is the motto for Zoo Corps teens, who teach Zoo guests about animal diets, wildlife conservation, animal enrichment, and saving species, as well as participating in other Zoo events. In order to receive an application, candidates must be at least 13 years old and attend one of the following mandatory information meetings at the Zoo’s Otto Center with a parent or guardian: May 5, 7–8 p.m.; May 7, 9–10 a.m. Reservations are not necessary for information meetings. If accepted, Zoo Corps members must be available to attend mandatory training on Saturday, August 6 from 9 a.m.–3 p.m. The summer/fall session runs August through December. A limited number of applicants are selected for each session. For more information, email sbarnard@sandiegozoo.org.
ZOO INTERNQUEST
High school juniors and seniors This career exploration program gives high school juniors and seniors the rare opportunity to job shadow and learn from our experts. Three days a week for seven weeks, students explore work areas from labs to field enclosures with professionals who work at the Zoo, Safari Park, and Institute for Conservation Research. Students share their experiences, along with photos, by posting weekly blogs on the San Diego Zoo website. The fall session is for October–November 2016; the winter session is for February–March 2017. Limited spaces are available. Applications are available online at the Zoo InternQuest web page and are due to the Education Office by 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 31, 2016. For more information, please email sbarnard@sandiegozoo.org.
Visit sandiegozoo.org for more information.
KINDERNIGHTS
Children ages 3–6 and their favorite adult Fridays and Saturdays, 6–7:30 p.m. $15 per person for members, $18 for nonmembers, plus Zoo admission Book online or call 619-557-3962. D Is for Dogs—as in New Guinea Singing Dogs January 15, 16, 22, 23 D is also for dingoes, desert tortoises, donkeys, and dart frogs. Which of these “D” animals will you come across during our KinderNights Alphabet Adventure? L Is for Leopards February 19, 20, 26, 27 L is also for lions, lizards, lesser kudu, and lovebirds. Which of these “L” animals will you come face-to-face with during this KinderNights Alphabet Adventure? S Is for Sea Lions March 11, 12, 18, 19 S is also for servals, starlings, sloths, and snakes. Which of these “S” animals will you come across this month during our KinderNights Alphabet Adventure? C Is for Cheetahs April 15, 16, 22, 23 C is also for cockatoos, camels, and cockroaches. Which of these “C” animals will you encounter this month at our KinderNights Animal Adventure? G Is for Goannas May 13, 14, 20, 21 G is also for goats, giraffes, and geckos. What is a goanna? Come and find out about this amazing “G” animal this month during our KinderNights Alphabet Adventure. H Is for Hippos June 3, 4, 10, 11 H is also for hens, hedgehogs, Harris’s hawks, and horses. Which of these “H” animals will you visit this month during our KinderNights Alphabet Adventure?
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Children ages 18 months–3 years and their favorite adult Saturday mornings, 8:30–9:30 a.m. $12 per person for members; $15 for nonmembers, plus Zoo admission Book online or call 619-557-3962. Some Animals Are BIG and Others Are Small January 9, 16, 23 Learning about sizes is more fun when you include animals. This month, we’re going to visit the Galápagos tortoises to learn just how big a member of the turtle family can get! We’ll even bring out some little guys, for comparison. One, Two, Three, Four … February 13, 20, 27 Counting was never so much fun! Feed a reptile, count the crickets, and giggle a lot! Fun and excitement abound. What Body Part Does a Sloth Use to Keep Its Balance in a Tree? March 5, 12, 19 It takes special balance to hang upside-down for hours at a time. This month, we’re going to visit the slow, but steady sloth. Come learn why they spend so much time balancing in one place. Animal Body Parts Come in All Shapes and Sizes. Why? April 9, 16, 23 This month, we’re going to take a ride on the Zoo’s Enchanted Bus, and have a private encounter with an elephant’s trunk. ABCs Can Be Tons of Fun … May 14, 21, 28 See how the ABCs are connected to animals at the zoo. There will be fun with food, as we see which “ABC” foods the giraffes like most. Fur, Feathers and Scales June 4, 11 They all feel different. What do you think a wombat feels like? We’re going to explore all kinds of animal coverings and learn how touch helps us—and animals—to survive.
SUMMER CAMP ADVENTURES CUB CAMP
Pre-K–Kindergarten (ages 4–5) 9 a.m.–noon (Extended day available only in the morning for additional fee.) $139 per week for members, $174 for nonmembers June 27–July 1; July 11–15, 18–22, 25–29; August 1–5, 8–12, 15–19, 22–26 Explore the different jobs at the Zoo or all the ways that animals play, in these fiveday adventures designed for ages 4 and 5. Programs include animal encounters, behindthe-scenes visits, bus rides, games, and “snafts”—edible food crafts!
CLASSIC CAMP
Grades K-8 9 a.m.–3 p.m. (Extended day available for additional fee.) $229 per week for members, $264 for nonmembers June 27–July 1; July 11–15, 18–22, 25–29; August 1–5, 8–12, 15–19, 22–26 Explore the world of animals through these fiveday adventures, including animal encounters, behind-the-scenes visits, bus rides, games, and much more. Choose one or more weeks of fun—there are two different themed programs available for each grade level.
It’s never too early to start planning for summer in San Diego! Visit us online or call 619-718-3000 to find out more about our summer day camp options.
ADVENTURES IN ART
EPIC TEEN ADVENTURES
LITTLE ARTISTS
New! PHOTOGRAPHY TEEN ADVENTURES
Grades 4–adult 9 a.m.–3 p.m. (Extended day available some weeks for additional fee.) $229 per week for members, $264 for nonmembers June 20–24, June 27–July 1; July 11–15, 18–22, 25–29; August 1–5, 8–12, 15–19, 22–26 Our professional artists and art teachers can help inspire your creativity—beginners welcome. Five-day sessions include group and individual instruction, and amazing animal models. A different theme is featured each week. Grades 1–3 9 a.m.–3 p.m. (Extended day available for additional fee.) $229 per week for members, $264 for nonmembers June 27–July 1; July 11–15, 18–22; 25–29; August 1–5, 8–12, 15–19, 22–26 Our professional art teacher will guide young artists and bring out their creative side. These five-day camps include up-close animal encounters, sketching opportunities, fun artmaking experiences using a wide variety of media, and an exciting animal show.
Grades 9–12 9 a.m.–3 p.m. (Extended day available for additional fee.) $229 per week for members, $264 for nonmembers July 11–15, 18–22 Teens can challenge themselves and learn about the challenges animals and Zoo professionals face, during these five-day adventures. Lots of animal encounters, behindthe-scenes visits, talks with Zoo staff, and hands-on activities make for fast-paced fun!
Grades 9–12 9 a.m.–3 p.m. (Extended day available for additional fee.) $229 per week for members, $264 for nonmembers July 25–29; August 1–5 Behind the eye of the camera...Too cool for school! You might be able to take photography at school, but not like you can at the San Diego Zoo. You’ll learn basic composition, exposure, lighting and editing, and you’ll be doing it with your camera focused on exotic animals.
MORE ADVENTURES AT THE ZOO AUSSIE OUTBACK BIRTHDAY BASH
Ages 10 and younger with adult chaperones Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.–noon, 1–3 p.m. $69 per guest, birthday child attends free Celebrate your child’s birthday with this once-in-a-lifetime Australian adventure! Children and their adult chaperones will enjoy a special birthday celebration in our Aussie Outback party room, hosted by our knowledgeable and fun-loving Zoo educators. The birthday bash includes live animal presentations and special entertainment with the Zoo’s zany, good-natured wildlife researcher, Dr. Zoolittle. Guests will enjoy Zoo decorations, cake and juice, and fun Zoo-themed birthday activities. Additions such as a visit from a costumed character, a bus tour, a special wombat appearance, or various birthday souvenirs are available for an additional fee. Call 619-685-3259 to book your birthday bash and talk with our party planning specialists about details and options, or email events@sandiegozoo.org.
WILDLIFE SLEEPOVER
School and youth groups with adult chaperones $90 and up per camper (students and adults). Bring your school or youth group to spend the night at the Zoo! This camping adventure includes games with Dr. Zoolittle, animal presentations, a private bus tour, a Zoo craft, s’mores around the campfire, a guided nighttime stroll in the Zoo, breakfast, and hot beverages. There are five different program themes designed for different grade levels, and all are aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards. Call 619-718-3000 to find out more and choose the perfect adventure!
ZOO PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS
Ages 16–adult Saturdays, 6:30–10 a.m. $144 per workshop for members, $153 for nonmembers Beginning Wildlife Photography: January 23 and 30; Intermediate Wildlife Photography: February 20 and 27; Advanced Wildlife Photography: March 12 and 19 Capturing Cats on Film: April 2 and 9 Photography workshops run every month from January through November. Visit sandiegozoo.org for monthly topics and dates. Each workshop includes two sessions. Book online or call 619-718-3000.
SUNRISE SURPRISE STROLLS
Ages 12–adult (Younger than 18 must be accompanied by paid adult) Saturdays and Sundays, 7:30–9 a.m. $29 per guest January 2, 3, 30; February 6, 7, 27; March 5, 6, 26; April 2, 3, 30; May 7, 8, 28; June 4, 5, 25 On these early-morning, pre-opening walking tours, each month participants see a special area of the Zoo close up or behind the scenes, along with a keeper talk. It’s a surprise—you won’t know what you’ll see until you get there! In honor of our 2016 centennial celebration, this year’s strolls will highlight the Zoo’s remarkable history. Afterward, enjoy chatting with other participants over muffins and coffee. Advance reservations required. Visit us online or call 619-718-3000 to reserve your space!
SAFARI PARK SUMMER CAMP
Ages 2–17 9 a.m.–4 p.m. (Extended day available for additional fee). June 20–24; June 27–July 1; July 5–8, 11–15, 18–22, 25–29; August 1–5 Discover an adventure like no other during the Safari Park’s Summer Camp! There may be many types of summer camps for kids, but few will have campers interacting with armadillos, making friends with meerkats, getting to know giraffes, and discovering African wonders the way the Safari Park’s will. This is hands-on, join-in, be-a-part-of-it fun, with options for kids ages 2 through 17. Join us for a full week of in-depth activities! If your children love nature, the Safari Park is the place for them this summer. Jump in and make your plans—it’s never too early to start thinking about summer in San Diego! Visit sdzsafaripark.org for details and to book online, or call 619718-3000. Limited availability.
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ROAR & SNORE SLEEPOVERS Spend the night at the Safari Park! All sleepovers begin at 4:15 p.m. and conclude at 9:30 a.m. They include a tent and sleeping pad for the night*, dinner, evening snack, and breakfast. For family programs, children 17 and younger must be accompanied by a paid adult. For all the Roar & Snore options and information on dates, pricing, and tent options, please visit online or call 619-718-3000. *Premium tents include queen-sized beds
Safari Sampler
All ages March 5; March 19 and April 2, 9 (these three dates include an exclusive visit to Butterfly Jungle); April 23, 30; May 13, 21, 28, 29 Campers of all ages are invited to experience a sleepover that has something for everyone! Choose from a selection of walking tours to make your night relaxed or high-energy. Sample safaris that include behind-thescenes visits, up-close animal encounters, and tram rides.
Happy Hoppers
All ages March 25, 26 Hop on down to the Safari Park! Learn about our animals—especially those that can hop— participate in a glow-in-the-dark egg hunt, and experience up-close animal encounters.
Mother’s Day Safari Sampler
All ages May 6, 7 Honor the marvelous mom in your life by enjoying a sleepover at the Park. Choose from a selection of walking tours to make your night relaxed or high-energy. Sample safaris that include behind-the-scenes visits, up-close animal encounters, and tram rides.
Animal Amore
Adults only (ages 21 and older) February 13, 14 Want to have a wildly romantic night with your special someone at the Safari Park? Join us for a romantic candlelit dinner, a romantic tram tour, and up-close animal encounters. Learn about some of our animals' wild habits, and spend a cozy night under the stars in one of our Safari tents.
Visit sdzsafaripark.org for more information
Adult Roars & Rumbles
Adults only (ages 21 and older) March 12 (this date includes an exclusive visit to Butterfly Jungle); April 22; May 20; June 3 Choose your route from a menu of options to see your favorite Safari Park animals. Select from a relaxed tour with down time at the campsite, a high-energy hike, or something in between. Whatever you choose, you’ll be sure to see animals that rumble, roar, or both!
School Safari
School groups, grades 3–12 February 4; April 28; May 5, 12, 19, 26 Students wind their way through the Park on guided tours and enjoy an exclusive sleepover. Walking tours, games, crafts, and up-close animal encounters are all part of the experience. This program is aligned to Common Core Scientific Literacy Standards and Next Generation Science Standards.
Girl Scouts
Girl Scout troops, minimum age 5 March 18 (this date includes an exclusive visit to Butterfly Jungle); April 16, 29; May 14, 27; June 10, 24 Girl Scouts wind their way through the Park on guided tours and enjoy an exclusive sleepover, where they will learn about animals and conservation. Walking tours, games, crafts, and up-close animal encounters are all part of the experience.
EXPERIENCE A FLIGHTLINE SAFARI
Soar Above It All: Make a New Year’s Resolution to FLY at the Safari Park Flightline Safari is the ultimate recreational experience for those looking for excitement. Secure and comfortable in your harness, you will soar as high as 130 feet above the ground, with a spectacular bird’s-eye view of rhinos, giraffes, and other wildlife in the fields below you. The Flightline experience includes the use of safety equipment, an orientation, a brief interpretive tour, and a flight on our two zip lines. First, the Fledgling Run prepares you for your ultimate Flightline experience. Once “fledged,” you’ll be taken to the final launch platform. You will experience breathtaking views of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and of the large animal enclosures below as you “fly” approximately two-thirds of a mile, landing safely near our campground at the Park’s Kilima Point. For an additional fee, you can also choose to record your flight with the Flightline Helmet Cam, in high-definition video. You can play it back at home in full wide-screen mode. Flightline Safari advance tickets are $75 for ages 8 and older, and may be purchased online at sdzsafaripark.org or by calling 619-718-3000.
We’re still celebrating! Many thanks to our generous guests, vendors, partners, sponsors, volunteers, and employees who helped make this year’s San Diego Zoo Food, Wine & Brew Celebration one of the BEST in Zoo history! All proceeds benefit our conservation efforts around the globe through the San Diego Zoo Global Wildlife Conservancy.
Save the date! September 24, 2016,
for the Zoo’s centennial year San Diego Zoo Food, Wine & Brew Celebration. MILO WINNIE TUCKER
EDCO is proud to support the San Diego Zoo Food, Wine & Brew Celebration!
Many thanks to our presenting sponsor: EDCO salutes the contributions of the Zoological Society and their efforts of Going Green!
Sheer Pandemonium Family-owned and operated EDCO is proud to offer residential, commercial and industrial waste collection and recycling services.
And our other event sponsors:
We are ausproud Please contact at 619-287-7555 community supporter or visit our website
of the San Diego Zoo and its Institute for edcodisposal.com
www.mintz.com
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Conservation Research.
Kiki, the koala, is much more limber and agile since her acupuncture treatments began.
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TO THE POINT
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A variety of animals at the Zoo benefit from regular acupuncture treatments. With animals living longer in zoos, this non-invasive technique can block chronic pain signals and help them live comfortably. BY KARYL CARMIGNANI | STAFF WRITER
PHOTOS BY KEN BOHN | SDZG PHOTOGRAPHER
he gray koala, fluffy as a toy, pulls fragrant eucalyptus leaves into her mouth. She is nestled securely in a portable tree branch perch about six feet high in her exhibit in the Zoo’s Conrad Prebys Australian Outback. Chewing, she calmly gazes at us, as her nearly saucer-sized ears move toward various sounds in the distance. Dr. Beth Bicknese, Zoo senior veterinarian, skillfully slides tiny needles through her dense fur into various “acupoints” on the 10-year-old marsupial. The koala doesn’t flinch. “Kiki has significant hip arthritis,” explained Dr. Beth, “so we administer acupuncture every two weeks, to lessen her lameness and maximize her comfort.” Koalas in particular can benefit from this non-invasive technique of alleviating pain, as their diet of eucalyptus leaves is high in toxins, which their liver readily chews up—along with any medication they may be given orally. “Anti-inflammatories do not persist in the koala’s system, so acupuncture is a great alternative,” Dr. Beth said. While not everyone is sold on the efficacy of acupuncture on humans, much less animals, Dr. Beth, a scientist and skeptic, has seen it help a variety of animals at the Zoo. In addition to koalas, “we have had good results with a Philippine dove suffering from eye lid droop after a trauma, a Caribbean flamingo, a Fiji iguana, a Johnston’s crocodile and other reptiles,” she said. “Other cases had mixed results.” Kiki continued to enjoy her leafy breakfast with three needles surrounding each hip (the “hip triad” of acupuncture points), one on each ankle and knee (distal points travel up the spine linking nerves together), and a few on her back to have more “cross-talk” between the nerves. After 10 minutes, Dr. Beth removed the needles, placing them in a magnetic bowl to be carefully accounted for. Kiki was placed on the ground in her enclosure. Both keeper and vet were excited as she strode over to her tree and proceeded to climb up to her perch. “She used to have a ‘crumbling’ gait and was unable to keep her hindquarters up, but now she seems much more
comfortable and agile,” said Dr. Beth. Some geriatric koalas also have shoulder arthritis, which can be debilitating for tree climbing animals, and acupuncture is useful for that as well. As zoos have become better at managing animals and providing improved diets and husbandry techniques, animals are living much longer—and needing more intensive “senior care.” Medical Acupuncture for Veterinarians (MAV) is a science-based course available to licensed veterinarians. It requires 80 hours of online classes and 9 days of small- and large-animal hands-on classroom study. Dr. Beth got certified last April, though “it will be a life-long learning thing, layering on knowledge.” She relishes the scientific aspect of using the neuro-anatomy to effectively treat disease and manage pain in different species. Dr. Beth explained that using acupuncture on, say, Kiki does not give the animal new, healthy joints but instead, “changes how much pain is generated and how she perceives it,” which is the next best thing!
WHAT A PAIN Acupuncture has been used in China for thousands of years, for both treatment and prevention of disease. Medical Acupuncture for Veterinarians is more “Western” and is evidence-based in neuro-anatomy. The American Veterinary Medical Association considers veterinary acupuncture “a valid modality within the practice of veterinary medicine and surgery.” In 1993, the World Health Organization published a standardized nomenclature for 361 classical acupuncture points, giving more credence DID YOU (and consistency) to the therapy. AcupuncKNOW? ture is especially useful when side effects of Acupuncture other modalities outweigh benefits, when is an ancient healing method. other modalities are ineffective (last resort), It has been or when surgery is not feasible (such as with practiced since elderly animals). Acupuncture needles are at least 100 BC typically stainless steel, sterilized, singleand the first use, and extremely thin tools ranging from acupuncture one-half to three inches long. Silicone-coated book was needles are easier to insert, but have less “tiswritten by 100 AD. sue grab” than non-coated needles. The brain and the spinal cord are respon-
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2016 Saving Endangered Species Youth Art Contest Young artists from kindergarten through high school can raise awareness about endangered species by entering this Endangered Species Day art contest. Student artwork must depict a land- or ocean-dwelling species that either lives in or migrates through the United States and its waters, or a plant/ flower that is found in the United States. The species must be on the threatened or endangered species list, or was on the list but has recovered. Participants are encouraged to tell a story of hope through their art, and judges appreciate artwork that shows species in their habitats. Winners will be selected in four categories: Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, and Grades 9-12; and a grand prize winner will be selected from the four grade-level winners. The deadline for submissions is March 1, 2016. Late entries will not be judged. Artwork must be submitted electronically, 3300x2550 pixels at 300 dpi resolution. Submit art at: endangered.org/submit-your-art. 2015 Grand Prize Winner
(Left) Zoo veterinarian Beth Bicknese, DVM, (R) is certified in Medical Acupuncture for Veterinarians (MAV). (Below) Acupuncture appears to have helped Floyd’s leg pain.
sible for the pain experience, and they are on the hook for the treatment of it, as well. While our reaction to acute pain can be adaptive—put pressure on the wound, apply a bandage, seek help—chronic pain is more difficult for our brain to manage. The Gate Control Theory holds that as pain signals surge from the area of injury along the spinal cord, “nerve gates” open and close, slowing one signal to let another one pass before it reaches the brain. (When you shake your hand after hitting your finger, this is gating of pain at work.) Acupuncture points are rich in nerve endings, and when needles are inserted, a reaction occurs (“micro-inflammation”) and this competing stimulus can inhibit pain signals from reaching the brain. Acupuncture can be an elegant, non-invasive solution to some health issues.
BACK IN THE PINK
Visit endangeredspeciesday.org for complete contest rules and information, and to discover more about the 11th annual Endangered Species Day, on May 20, 2016.
Floyd the flamingo was born with abnormally bowed legs, and he had two surgeries to correct this condition. Keepers took tender care of the bird 24/7 during his lengthy recovery. He continued to have residual bowing to his legs, but Floyd was mobile, albeit favoring one leg. Recently, he seemed to have injured his “good leg,” which is a real problem for a flamingo, as they stand on one leg to rest. Keepers helped him by holding him so he could rest for a bit—as long as
Floyd can tuck his beak into his caregiver’s armpit or neck, he’s quite content! He was given three medications for the swelling and pain, and sessions of acupuncture. “We start big, with six to eight treatments per month, then start to back down to a couple of times a month if the animal’s health allows,” Beth said. Floyd currently gets weekly treatments. A keeper holds the flamingo, his feet dangling. Dr. Beth moves in with the needles and the bird appears to relax, perhaps anticipating the relief this strange ritual provides. Needles are applied from his webbed foot, to the ankle joint (where the leg bends backward), and to the knee joint (at the feather line), and three are inserted beneath his wing forming a “hip triad.” For 10 minutes, the needles do their job of stimulating nerves, increasing blood flow, relieving muscle spasms, and unlocking the body’s natural pharmacy of endorphin opioids, among other benefits. Floyd appears completely relaxed throughout. After the removed needles ping into the dish, Floyd is released back to the group. He saunters into the pool, to a cacophony of his comrades. “As long as he is willing to fight, we’re willing to fight with him,” said Kristina Lauro, senior animal trainer (and one of Floyd’s close confidantes). The multi-modal approach including acupuncture seems to be getting Floyd—and other animals—back in the pink!
or f m a r g pro s t fi e n e b rs! A NEW e b m e bm u l c r o n do
GUESTS CARRYING A CARD WITH AN ORANGE OR BLUE STRIP WILL RECEIVE THESE BENEFITS AT THE ZOO AND SAFARI PARK.
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Visit the membership booth at the main Zoo or Park entrance.
100 YEARS OF THE SAN Part 2: Tenacity, 1927-1936
BY KAREN E. WORLEY
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MANAGING EDITOR
PHOTOS BY SDZG
n its second decade, the San Diego Zoo had finally been established in a permanent location and was gaining members, supporters, and admirers. But the Zoo still had a lot of work to do to expand its collection, create new exhibits and structures, and keep building its reputation. It would take grit and fortitude to keep moving forward, but if anyone was up to the task, it was Dr. Harry and his intrepid staff. One of the problems Dr. Harry had to solve for his fledgling Zoo was the issue of a director. During the 1920s, the Zoo had seen a series of directors come and go, some under contentious circumstances. Dr. Harry still had a busy medical practice to run, and although he spent every spare moment at the Zoo— often perched on a stool gulping down a sandwich while looking over building plans—he needed someone to run the day-to-day operations. Tired of conflicts with previous directors, Dr. Harry and the Zoo board decided to follow the London Zoo model instead, and have someone with the title Executive Secretary run the Zoo. Two men from other
zoos were considered for the job. But Dr. Harry knew who should be hired, even though it was unconventional for the times. The choice was Belle Benchley. She took up her position in 1927, and she was the first woman to run a large public zoo. When Dr. Harry offered her the job, he told her, “You might as well run the place, you’re already doing it anyway.” Belle was a very hands-on leader, and she knew every aspect of running the Zoo. She had to, with a staff of fewer than 30 people! She ran the operations of the Zoo, managed the keepers, often did keeper work herself, and made daily rounds to visit and check on the animals. The keepers said she could tell if something wasn’t quite right with an animal just by driving by—and she was usually correct. She handled correspondence and negotiations with other zoos around the world, and arranged animal trades and shipments. Somehow she also found time to act as editor and writer of ZOONOOZ, which had first been published in 1926. In 1927, the Zoo built its first hospital, the only one of its kind in the US at the time. The funds were provided by Zoo friend and benefactor Ellen Browning Scripps, and the facility was named the Ellen Browning Scripps Hospital and Biological Research Institute in her honor. From the start, the hospital served as a
WPA projects at the Zoo included Wegeforth Bowl and the Reptile House (seen here).
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center for scientific research as well as veterinary care, studying animal physiology, behavior, and disease. The staff shared research results with scientists across the country and even around the world. It was already clear to Dr. Harry and Belle that little was known about some animal species, and that much could be learned from animals in zoos. They needed someone to lead the charge in pioneering zoological veterinary medicine and research. In 1932, an energetic young man was hired who would become as much a part of the Zoo as Dr. Harry and Belle themselves: Dr. Charles Schroeder. Charlie “liked the whole idea of pioneering,” and he set about influencing a new veterinary discipline for exotic animals. It focused on properly treating and caring for animals using preventative procedures, and studying and learning from illness and disease that did occur. The field was so new that he was largely on his own, sailing in uncharted territory. He began writing and publishing papers on his discoveries. Charlie made a remarkable difference as the Zoo veterinarian. In a time when detailed necropsies (autopsies on animals), an emphasis on hygiene, and thorough studies of animal physiology were considered new ideas, he was one of the first to initiate all three. The little Zoo in a seaside town was continuing to grow. In 1928, a shipment arrived bringing a species that would be key for the San Diego Zoo throughout its history: the Galápagos tortoise. A colleague and friend of Dr. Harry’s, Dr. Charles Townsend, director of the New York Aquarium, offered to go on an expedition to the Galápagos and bring the tortoises back. These were mostly youngsters. In 1933, he went on a second trip and brought back another group of tortoises, including some that were already full-grown adults weighing
DIEGO ZOO
When Belle Benchley started as a bookkeeper in 1925, little did she know she would be running the Zoo in two years!
Dr. Charles Townsend brought the Zoo its first Galápagos tortoises in 1928.
several hundred pounds. One of these was Speed, Martin and also known as No. 5. He Osa Johnson gave the Zoo its lived a long life at the Zoo, first cheetah, a and when he passed away friendly fellow in 2015, he was estimated named Bong. to be 150 years old. Two animals that helped put the San Diego Zoo on the map arrived in 1931: gorillas Mbongo and Ngagi. They were brought to the Zoo by explorers and San Diego Zoo friends Martin and Osa Johnson, and were two of only a very few gorillas in zoos at the time. Little Other memorable animal residents was known about gorillas then, and also came to the Zoo during this period. scientists came from around the world One was a friendly Andean condor to observe their behavior. The two juvenamed Bum that liked to steal his nile males made national news and had keeper’s keys and untie his shoelaces. their pictures and stories printed in His keeper, Karl Ring, was a bit of a newspapers and magazines. They were character himself, and the two had a particular favorites of Belle Benchley, favorite game: Karl would lie down on who visited them nearly every day and the ground, and Bum would hop over wrote a series of articles about them to perch on his chest, wings spread. The for ZOONOOZ. Mbongo and Ngagi effect was a somewhat macabre portrait are still remembered at the Zoo today for visitors walking by, and caused not in the handsome bronze sculptures of a few gasps and exclamations. But that them on the front plaza. just appealed to Karl’s quirky sense of
humor. Then there was Bong the cheetah, who Martin and Osa Johnson had adopted as a sickly cub in Kenya. They brought him aboard ship back with them to New York, and they even took him for walks in Central Park. But they knew their apartment was no place for a cheetah, so they gave him to the San Diego Zoo in 1933, where he lived a long life. He even helped Belle Benchley with speaking engagements—acting as the Zoo’s first animal ambassador. Fortunately there was a Zoo for Bong to come to, because in 1932, the San Diego Zoo almost closed! The San Diego County Assessor, trying to obtain funds for the struggling city, announced that the San Diego Zoo owed more than $6,000 in back taxes on the property and holdings. But the Zoological Society leased the property SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL / SANDIEGOZOO.ORG / 21
BACK IN TIME Discover much more about the San Diego Zoo’s 100 years of history on our centennial website: sandiegozoo100.org
Clockwise from left: Dr. Harry and herpetology curator Si Perkins set off on an overseas collecting trip; Mbongo and Ngagi the gorillas as rambunctious five year olds; Dr. Charles Schroeder treats a camel with a toothache.
from the city and did not own it, so they refused to pay. The assessor organized an auction in front of the Zoo and tried to sell the animals and equipment to some 150 people who had gathered—which included animal dealers. Several city councilmen and police officers also attended, though, and warned people that they would be arrested if they purchased and took away any animals or property. There were no bidders. As a result, the frustrated assessor announced 22 / ZOONOOZ / JANUARY 2016
that the Zoo was “sold” to the state. But the state didn’t want anything to do with these goings-on. The auction was declared illegal, and the Zoo was not required to pay the back taxes. Dr. Harry, Belle, and the board of trustees breathed a sigh of relief. This was the time of the Great Depression, and although Dr. Harry had won the battle to keep the Zoo open, he had to continue to maintain it. And it was a struggle. It was all Dr. Harry and Belle could do to find
proper food to feed the animals and supplies to run the operations. They were incredibly resourceful, though, and managed to make ends meet—often due to Dr. Harry’s charming but insistent tenacity and his shrewd trades and fund-raising abilities. He was even known to prowl the San Diego waterfront to beg fish from the fishermen to feed sea lions and bears, beseech farmers to donate hay, and collect secondgrade fruits and vegetables from produce markets and bring them to the Zoo in cartons. When the US government launched the Work Projects Administration (WPA) to provide work, some of the first projects took place at the Zoo. WPA projects included Fern Canyon, the birds of prey aviary (which is now the Owens Rain Forest Aviary), Wegeforth Bowl, and the Reptile House—all of which are still standing today. By the late 1930s, things were looking up for the country and the Zoo. In the next few years, animalcollecting expeditions would bring exciting species to the Zoo, and firsts in rare animal reproduction would bring success and new knowledge. But there were big changes on the horizon as well—challenges that the Zoo staff could not have predicted. To be continued in the March 2016 ZOONOOZ—Part 3: The War Years, 1937-1946; and Part 4: Growth, 1947-1956
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Beaucarnea recurvata
RAIN SAVER The base of an elephant foot tree grows wider as the plant stores precious rainwater during monsoons in its dry habitat. BY WENDY PERKINS STAFF WRITER
PHOTOS BY TAMMY SPRATT SDZG PHOTOGRAPHER
Just outside of the Fossil Portal tar pit at the San Diego Zoo’s Harry and Grace Steele Elephant Odyssey, a grove of aptly named plants thrive. With their thick, roughly textured, grayishbrown base, the elephant foot trees Beaucarnea certainly resemble the feet of their massive namesake. Native to arid regions from Mexico to Central America, this plant’s stout bottom—called a caudex—is key to its survival. For the most part, the only water this area gets comes during the monsoon season. Beaucarnea’s shallow root system captures vast quantities of rain, which is then stored in the spongy tissue of the caudex. Over time, the base broadens to hold more moisture as the plant grows. One octogenarian specimen at the Zoo is a solid example of that unique habit.
A swollen base and deeply textured bark give the elephant foot tree its common name.
THE BIG ONE The Zoo’s Beaucarnea collection includes four different species, some of which will no doubt look familiar to houseplant and drought-tolerant garden enthusiasts. B. recurvata is the most recognizeable species. Its gracefully drooping leaves add visual interest in water-conscious landscapes, and it is becoming popular as a low-care houseplant. When you stroll through the Beaucarnea forest at Elephant Odyssey, the first elephant foot tree you’ll see measures an impressive 10 feet wide at the base. Longtime Zoo members may remember seeing this plant at the Flamingo Lagoon for many decades. Donated to the Zoo in 1960 as a mature, 27-yearold specimen, it was moved to its new location in 2008.
IT TAKES TWO Beaucarnea are dioecious—each individual plant is either male or female. Both sexes produce flowers, but of slightly different structures and shades. Stamen-bearing male blossoms
are straw colored, while female flowers show a slightly pink hue. Long stalks of small blooms are a boon to bees and other insects. Biologists monitoring B. gracilis in the Tehuacán Valley in Mexico noted 46 different species of insects visiting the plants in their study. After pollination, petals drop as seeds begin to form. Standing below, one might not notice the change, thinking the flowers have simply dried up. In reality, what is seen are stalks covered with clusters of seeds, each surrounded by a winged, papery husk. The projections on the seed covering help slow the seed’s fall, and even allow it to be carried by the wind for a short distance.
Beaucarnea stricta
Beaucarnea gracillis
IDENTITY ISSUE Sometimes, the classification of a plant can cause years of discussion and debate among botanists. Such is the case with the elephant foot tree. Since it was first classified in 1861, it has been studied and shifted between the genera Beaucarnea and Nolina. Part of the identity crisis comes from the fact that while the leaves and flowers of the plant are similar to those of Nolina, the fruit looks like that of a third genus, Dasylerion. Another point of disagreement in the past has been to what taxonomic family these plants belong. Although Beaucarnea was considered a member of the lily family for many years, some botanists believed it should be placed with agaves and yuccas, while others now place it in the family Asparagaceae. As Shakespeare asked, “What’s in a name?” The Bard was right about roses, and his broader point can be applied to Beaucarnea as well. The botanical group they “belong to” has no effect on the beauty they possess, and the effective and efficient adaptations that help them survive. Be sure to marvel at them on your next visit to the Zoo!
SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL / SANDIEGOZOO.ORG / 25
S U P P O RT
ROAR FORWARD
Nearly 100 years ago, in September 1916, the roar of a lion inspired local physician Dr. Harry Wegeforth to create the San Diego Zoo, which he founded on October 2, 1916. While we celebrate a century of connecting people with wildlife, we also look to our future, with the public launch of the largest fund-raising campaign in our history: Roaring Forward. As we head into our second century, our goal is to raise $400 million by December 2017 to help San Diego Zoo Global lead the fight against extinction.
INTO THE NEXT 100 YEARS
The San Diego Children’s Choir, pictured here with Jake the sea lion and animal training manager Kristi Dovich, surprised the campaign launch attendees with a rendition of “You Belong in the Zoo.”
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B
efore the public launch of Roaring Forward in the fall of 2015, there were four years of campaign fund-raising in the quiet phase. “What’s remarkable is that during that time we secured $271 million,” said Douglas Myers, president and CEO of San Diego Zoo Global. “More than 66,000 donors stepped up to contribute, from San Diego philanthropist Conrad Prebys’ gift of $15 million to schoolchildren pledging their allowances to help save rhinos from extinction.” We also heard from Berit Durler, campaign chair and member of the Zoo’s board of trustees: “Now that our firstever comprehensive campaign is in the public phase, we hope to involve all our supporters to help make the Zoo’s hopes and dreams a reality. The most important aspect of the $400 million is the impact Roaring Forward will have for children, wildlife, and the natural world.” An event to announce the public launch of the campaign was held November 7, 2015, at the Zoo’s Wegeforth Bowl, followed by an open house in the Zoofari Party Area. Donors and other friends learned about the Zoo’s programs and saw firsthand how their donations support the campaign’s three priority areas: • IGNITE A PASSION for wildlife in every child • GROW THE ZOO’S WORLDWIDE LEADERSHIP in animal and plant care and exhibition • SAVE CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES for future generations while working with local and global partners.
IGNITE A PASSION The Zoo and Safari Park connect individuals of all ages and walks of life to wildlife through close encounters with animals, education programs, and community outreach programs. Funds donated to Roaring Forward
will expand the Zoo’s education opportunities for underserved students by transforming our 50-year-old education facility into a contemporary learning space for children. And by training life science teachers with a wildlife-based science curriculum, they, in turn, will reach more than one million middle school and high school students! The campaign also supports the creation and distribution of wildlife programming for the San Diego Zoo Kids network in children’s hospitals, easing the stay of pediatric patients and their families nationwide.
GROW OUR LEADERSHIP Throughout our history, the Zoo and Safari Park have led the way in breeding endangered species and have reintroduced animals into protected native habitats. Our exhibits often raise the bar on design, and they promote the best in animal care. The Tull Family Tiger Trail at the Safari Park and the Zoo’s Conrad Prebys Australian Outback are examples of fund-raising success secured by Roaring Forward. Our newest exhibit, Conrad Prebys Africa Rocks, is the Zoo’s largest and most ambitious exhibit
ever and is scheduled to open in 2017. Next, the Zoo will renovate the 58-yearold Children’s Zoo. Gifts to Roaring Forward will continue to transform older areas of the Zoo and create new exhibits at the Safari Park, set a global standard for animal welfare, and prepare the next generation of field conservationists, researchers, and educators to address the world’s most critical wildlife issues.
SAVE ENDANGERED SPECIES With wildlife disappearing from native habitats on a global scale at an unprecedented rate, our scientific staff supports projects at more than 140 field sites on 6 continents—working to protect wildlife, preserve genetic resources, prevent disease, conserve habitat, and inspire change with community-based conservation. The Roaring Forward campaign will provide permanent funding for the San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, ensuring that we have the resources for the science of saving species. By expanding our network of field sites and sharing knowledge with partners committed to saving HOW YOU wildlife, research and CAN HELP conservation will For more information thrive in key areas on supporting the supported by local Roaring Forward communities, as well campaign, please as engage an internavisit our website at tional audience roaringforward.org or and strengthen our call 619-557-3947. global networks. SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL / SANDIEGOZOO.ORG / 27
T H AT WA S T H E N
Bus Now Leaving
Looking back to September 1955, ZOONOOZ featured a story about the Zoo’s bus tour, showing it was as popular then as it is now. Some things are timeless! TODAY AT THE ZOO Visitors will find something new at the Bus Tour during our centennial: a beautiful short film experience in the queue that showcases San Diego Zoo Global’s vital conservation work, plus historical stories during the tour.
28 / ZOONOOZ / JANUARY 2016
One of the first things a Zoo visitor sees as he enters through the turnstile is a large touring bus passing the lovely Flamingo Lagoon. If he listens he may hear a voice explaining, “The flamingos standing on one leg are either resting or sleeping.” By reading the large sign just inside the gate, or asking a security guard, the visitor learns that he may take a 50-minute guided tour of the entire zoo grounds if he so desires. As last year’s figures indicate, about one out of four Zoo comers have so desired. Specifically, 369,233 persons took advantage of the Zoo’s Guide Service last year. Of these, 122,193 were children. The fleet of nine buses that travel our Zoo hourly is perhaps its most unique feature. The San Diego Zoo is the only institution of its kind featuring a complete guided tour of its grounds.
JANUARY-APRIL MEMBER SPECIAL OFFERS JA N UA RY 2 0 1 6
JA N UA RY 2 0 1 6
ALL-DAY CAROUSEL RIDES FOR THE PRICE OF ONE Valid at the Safari Park’s Conservation Carousel. Purchase a carousel token for $4 and get upgraded to an all-day wristband for rides! Valid January 1–31, 2016 Member must provide token and membership card at time of purchase to receive offer. Supporting ID may be required. Not valid with any other offer, promotion, or discount. Coupon not required.
10% OFF ALL SWEATSHIRTS!
Valid at all stores at the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park. Valid January 1–31, 2016 Member must provide membership card at time of purchase to receive discount. Supporting ID may be required. Coupon not required. Not valid with any other offer, promotion, or discount. No limit while supplies last.
JA N UA RY – F E B R UA RY 2016
ONE-TIME FREE PARKING AT THE SAFARI PARK
JA N UA RY 2 0 1 6
Members must provide membership card to parking attendant to receive one-time free parking. Valid for one vehicle only at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Valid January 1–February 29, 2016
FREE 20-OUNCE SODA WITH ENTRÉE PURCHASE
Purchase a sandwich or salad entrée at the Safari Park and receive a free 20-ounce soda. Valid January 1–31, 2016 Member must provide membership card at time of purchase to receive discount. Supporting ID may be required. Coupon not required. Not valid with any other offer, promotion, or discount.
Preferred parking not included. Supporting ID may be required. Not valid with any other offer, promotion, or discount. Coupon not required.
F E B R UA RY 2 0 1 6
10% OFF
BREAKFAST
Valid at the San Diego Zoo Sandwich Company. Valid February 1–29, 2016 Member must provide membership card at time of purchase to receive discount. Supporting ID may be required. Coupon not required. Not valid with any other offer, promotion, or discount.
J A N U A R YAPRIL 2016
$10 OFF
ALL ANIMAL ADOPTIONS! It began with a roar! You can adopt a lion in minutes and have the digital adoption package sent immediately! Visit our San Diego Zoo website to view the newest king of his pride and give a gift of hope! Digital adoptions start at $35. Mailed adoptions—which include a plush animal— start at $100. Adoptions support our wildlife conservation efforts here and around the globe! See our website at sandiegozoo. org/adopt for a full list of our animal adoptions. Offer valid January 1– April 30, 2016. To redeem online, enter coupon code ASZW0116 at checkout. No limit. Not valid with any other offer, promotion, discount, or at on grounds adoption booth.
ZOONOOZ
®
SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL
Box 120551, San Diego, CA 92112
YOUR MEMBER SPECIALS ARE INSIDE!
For our centennial in 2016, there are some exciting changes for ZOONOOZ! The print magazine has an updated design and new features; it will continue to be mailed to members six times per year, every other month. In addition, we’re introducing a beautiful new digital ZOONOOZ site that you can access on any device at any time. All you need is a web browser, and it’s mobile friendly. Choose from story categories like Animals, Plants, Keeper Notes, Saving Species, and Wild and Fun; and new posts are published every week. The new digital ZOONOOZ site is available now. It’s a wild new world—we hope you’ll join us there!
VISIT ZOONOOZ.SANDIEGOZOO.ORG