ZOONOOZ July 2018 by San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

ZOONOOZ

SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL

JULY 2018

Tasmanian Devils Rhino Conservation Africa Rocks Galápagos Tortoises

DINING EVENTS AT ALBERT'S

HAPPY HAPPENS AT ALBERT'S RESTAURANT Through September 3, 2018 | 3 to 5 p.m.

HORTICULTURE DINNER AT ALBERT'S RESTAURANT Saturday, September 8, 2018 | 6 p.m.

Select $6 cocktails, local craft beers, and California wines; plus $7 appetizers. After enjoying Happy Happens, savor your summer nights at Albert’s with a dinner prepared by Executive Chef Carissa Giacalone.

Please join us in celebrating the Zoo’s world-class botanical collection during this special evening at Albert’s Restaurant. A 6 p.m. reception gets things up and “growing”; dinner follows at 7.

Call 619-685-3200 for reservations at Albert’s. Reservations are not required, but are recommended.

Cost is $82, plus tax and gratuity. Must be 21 or older to attend. Make reservations online, or call 619-718-3000.

July 2018 VOL. XCI–NO. 04

Graphically Speaking 8

Gimme “Shell”-ter A tortoise’s shell is much more than just its home. Take a peek under the hood. BY AMY BLANDFORD AND DONNA PARHAM

Cover Story 10

And Then There Were Two Southern white rhinos are now the focus of San Diego Zoo Global’s efforts to rescue the northern white rhino from extinction. BY KARYL CARMIGNANI

Features 16

Beguiling Little Devils Get to know “laid-back” McLovin and “shy” Quirindi, two newly arrived Tasmanian devils at the Zoo’s Australian Outback. BY ESTON ELLIS

A Stroll through Africa Rocks A habitat-by-habitat peek at what you can see on an exploration of the Zoo’s newest exhibit. BY PEGGY SCOTT AND WENDY PERKINS

2 Nooz Notes 7 SDZ Kids Page 26 Support 29 In the Field ON THE COVER:

Southern white rhino Ceratotherium simum simum by Ken Bohn, SDZG Photographer THIS PAGE:

Ring-tailed lemur Lemur catta by Tammy Spratt, SDZG Photographer

N O OZ N OT E S

Lion toddler tee, sizes 2T/3T/4T, $16.95.

Toddler baseball cap, $18.95. Panda novelty backpack, $24.95.

Lion novelty backpack, $24.95.

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S IN STORE?

Bright and Wild With a little animal-inspired flair, your little one can be king or queen of the playground kingdom. These fun, colorful items can be found at Zoo and Park gift shops or at shopzoo.com. Safari backpacks, $24.95 each.

Perfectly Pink Panda toddler hoodie, sizes 2T/3T/4T, $19.95.

2 / ZOONOOZ / JULY 2018

Safari toddler tee, sizes 2T/3T/4T, $16.95.

TAKE A TOUR THATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

UNLIKE ANY OTHER

Have it your way on an Ultimate Safari at the Safari Park or an Exclusive VIP Experience at the Zoo, as your custommade tour is designed especially for you! Our experienced guides will take you on an extraordinary adventure that is tailored to visit the wildlife you love most. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be behind the scenes and in the know about your favorite animals and places at the Safari Park and the Zoo! These popular tours require advance reservations. Requests must be made a minimum of 72 hours in advance and are subject to availability. Please call our reservation specialists at 619-718-3000 to create and confirm your own special tour.

N O OZ N OT E S

Save the Date What’s happening at the Zoo and Park this month and next (Z) Zoo events (P) Park events THROUGH AUGUST 12 Summer Safari presented by Groupon Enjoy music, dancing, and other entertainment from Asia, the Pacific Islands, India, Africa, and South America—at the Safari Park. (P) THROUGH SEPTEMBER 3 Nighttime Zoo Rock and roar at the Zoo all summer long, as we celebrate the new Conrad Prebys Africa Rocks with a wide array of family activities and animal encounters that keep going long after the sun goes down. Enjoy live music, fun with Dr. Zoolittle, and much more! (Z) JULY 6, 7, 14, 19, 20, 21, 28; AUGUST 2, 3, 4, 17, 18, 25 All Ages Roar & Snore Spend the night at the Safari Park with your family! Select a camping sleepover that has something for everyone. Call 619-718-3000. (P)

JULY 13, 27; AUGUST 11, 24 Adults Only Roar & Snore Safari At this Safari Park sleepover for adults 21 and over, you’ll learn about the secret lives of animals through the kind of information we can only share with no children around! Call 619-718-3000. (P) JULY 28 Safari Park Spirits Dinner Following a visit with our animal ambassadors, enjoy a four-course gourmet dinner, with each course paired with a special cocktail. Must be 21 years or older to attend. For reservations, call 619-718-3000 or visit sdzsafaripark.org/diningevents. For event details, see page 5. (P) AUGUST 18 Animal Ambassador Dinner Meet some of the Park’s charismatic animal ambassadors and enjoy a delicious gourmet meal. For event details, see page 5. (P)

Summer in Full Swing

JULY 7 Breakfast with Tigers Wake up and watch our tigers start their day, and then enjoy a hearty buffet breakfast. For reservations, call 619-718-3000 or visit sdzsafaripark.org/dining-events. (P)

PRESIDENT/CEO’S NOTE DOUGLAS G. MYERS

ummertime is well underway at the Zoo and Safari Park, filled with excitement, activities, and fun. Our summer events, Nighttime Zoo and Summer Safari presented by Groupon, have something for everyone, from music and dance to special shows and entertainment to new dining opportunities, plus our longer summer hours give you even more time to enjoy all your favorite animals. And that includes some newcomers at the Safari Park: Walkabout Australia is now open, with kangaroos, wallabies, tree kangaroos, ducks and geese, and cassowaries ready to greet you in this brand-new, lovely addition to the Park’s around-the-world safari experiences. The Zoo has some new additions as well: bee-eaters in the African Aviary at Conrad Prebys Africa Rocks, and two Amur leopard cubs in Asian Passage—our first cubs of this very rare species. If you’re planning family excursions and adventures for out-of-town guests, we’ve got you covered—come and play with us this summer!

4 / ZOONOOZ / JULY 2018

Let’s Talk Follow @sandiegozoo & @sdzsafaripark. Share your #SanDiegoZoo & #SDZSafariPark memories on Twitter & Instagram.

SPECIAL DINING EVENTS AT THE SAFARI PARK

S pi r its D i n n e r featu r i n g CUT WATE R S pi r its Saturday, July 28, 2018 5:30 p.m. Mombasa Pavilion The evening starts with a visit from our animal ambassadors, followed by a four-course gourmet meal prepared by Safari Park Chef Joshua Mireles. A representative from Cutwater Spirits will be on hand to present the selected cocktails for each course. For adults 21 and older. Guests will be seated at tables of eight. Cost is $84 per person, plus tax and parking.

An i mal Am bas sad o r D i n n e r Saturday, August 18, 2018 | 5 p.m. Hunte Pavilion Join us for an evening to meet some of our fantastic Safari Park animal ambassadors. The evening will include visits from our cat ambassadors, including a caracal, serval, and cheetah, as you enjoy a delicious gourmet meal. Guests will be seated at tables of eight. Cost is $69.95 per person, plus tax and parking.

San D i eg o Zo o Safar i Par k B r ew Fe stival Sunday, September 30, 2018 | 2 p.m. Kijamii Overlook Brew Festival includes animal greeters, Oktoberfest-inspired buffet, music, and 12 beer tasters served in a souvenir tasting cup. There will be representatives from the local craft breweries to speak about the different beer selections. For adults 21 years of age and older. Advance ticket price is $50 for food and beer; $25 for food only. Tickets are also available at the Safari Park day of the event for $70 per person, depending upon availability. Plus tax and parking; nonmembers add Park admission.

T O M A K E R E S E R VAT I O N S , P L E A S E C A L L 6 1 9 -7 1 8 -3 0 0 0 O R V I S I T S D Z S A FA R I P A R K . O R G/D I N I N G .

N O OZ N OT E S

3,073

Number of specimens in the Zoo’s Orchid House, open to the public the third Friday of each month.

SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL OFFICERS

Steven G. Tappan, Chairman Javade Chaudhri, Vice Chairman Linda Lowenstine, DVM, Ph.D., Secretary Richard B. Gulley, Treasurer BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Rolf Benirschke Clifford W. Hague Robert B. Horsman Steven S. Simpson Ryan Sullivan, Ph.D. Judith A. Wheatley

TRUSTEES EMERITI

It’s only a number

San Diego Zoo Global’s commitment to ending extinction includes flora as well as fauna. The Zoo and Safari Park are world-class botanical gardens that are recognized by the American Association of Museums, and they serve as “rescue centers” for rare and endangered plant species. Our partnership with the Center for Plant Conservation is helping our vision bloom.

Accredited plant collections at the Zoo: acacias, aloes, bamboo, coral trees, cycads, ficus, orchids, and palms.

Number of native plant seed collections banked in 2017 by the Plant Conservation team.

200

Boojum trees in the Safari Park’s Baja Garden. It’s the largest collection outside of their native Mexico.

Frank C. Alexander Kurt Benirschke, M.D. Berit N. Durler Thompson Fetter Bill L. Fox Frederick A. Frye, M.D. George L. Gildred Yvonne W. Larsen John M. Thornton A. Eugene Trepte Betty Jo F. Williams James Lauth, General Counsel to the Board Douglas G. Myers, President/CEO Charles L. Bieler, Executive Director Emeritus THE FOUNDATION OF SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL OFFICERS

ZOONOOZ

PUBLISHED SINCE 1926 JULY 2018 | VOL. XCI NO. 04

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.

MANAGING EDITOR

KAREN E. WORLEY

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

PEGGY SCOTT

STAFF WRITERS

WENDY PERKINS KARYL CARMIGNANI DONNA PARHAM

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.

COPY EDITOR

ESTON ELLIS DESIGNER

KERRI ABRAMS SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL PHOTOGRAPHERS

KEN BOHN TAMMY SPRATT

SR. PHOTO IMAGING SPECIALIST

TAMMY SPRATT

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION

KAMBIZ MEHRAFSHANI KIM TURNER AMY BLANDFORD LISA BISSI JENNIFER MACEWEN

PREPRESS AND PRINTING

QUAD GRAPHICS

6 / ZOONOOZ / JULY 2018

SAN DIEGO ZOO HOURS

July 1-31: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. August 1-31: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

SAFARI PARK HOURS

July 1–31: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. August 1-12: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; August 13-31: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. WEBSITE

sandiegozoo.org PHONE

Annual Memberships: Two adults in same household $166.50, new; $151.50, renewal. One adult $112, new; $102, renewal. Each membership includes unlimited entrance to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. 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. As part of San Diego Zoo Global’s commitment to conservation, ZOONOOZ is printed on recycled paper that is at least 10% post-consumer waste, chlorine free, and is Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) certified.

619-231-1515 ZOONOOZ®

Online web publication zoonooz.sandiegozoo.org FSC® is not responsible for any calculations on saving resources by choosing this paper.

Richard M. Hills, Chair Judith C. Harris, Vice Chair Chris Eddy, Secretary Susan N. McClellan, Treasurer Mark A. Stuart, President Amy B. Parrott, Vice President Douglas G. Myers, Ex officio Steven G. Tappan, Ex officio BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Christine L. Andrews Joye D. Blount Rick Bregman Sophie W. Bryan Douglas Dawson Berit N. Durler U. Bertram Ellis, Jr. Arthur E. Engel Valerie A. Ewell, DVM JJ Fetter Susan Guinn Murray H. Hutchison Nikita Kahn Ellison Lynelle Lynch Susan B. Major Joshua A. Pack Maryanne C. Pfister Philip C. Seeger Elizabeth W. Shoemaker Carter Skeath

the need for

speed

To find out about these and other animals, plus videos, crafts, stories, games, and more, visit kids.sandiegozoo.org.

flamingo They might be slow-footed on land, but how fast can they fly?

Who is the fastest? Who is the slowest? Look at the speeds listed here and see if you can match them to the correct animal. 1. 50 mph

6. 19 mph

2. 37 mph

7. 15 mph

3. 30 mph

8. 14 mph

4. 25 mph

9. 4.65 mph

5. 20 mph

10. .215 mph

polar bear How fast can these ice bears run?

hippo Its name means “river horse,” but how fast can it trot on land?

tortoise

penguin

Does slow and steady win the race? Just how fast can an animal carrying its house on its back move along?

They’re quick in the water, but the penguin’s land speed is much slower. How fast do you think these tuxedowearing waddlers can toddle along?

koala When they’re not sleeping up to 22 hours a day, how hastily can this Australian marsupial walk about?

elephant

lion

On the savanna, the lion is the king of beasts, but how rapidly does this royal cat run?

ANSWERS: 1. LION (50 MPH); 2. GIRAFFE (37 MPH) 3. FLAMINGO (30 MPH); 4. POLAR BEAR (25 MPH); 5. KOALA (20 MPH); 6. HIPPO (19 MPH); 7. ELEPHANT (15 MPH); 8. PEACOCK (14 MPH); 9. PENGUIN (4.65 MPH); 10. TORTOISE (.215 MPH)

7 / ZOONOOZ / JULY 2018

Does carrying a trunk slow the steps of the largest land mammal on Earth? What’s the pace of this pachyderm?

g i ra f f e Those long legs come in handy, and the giraffe is pretty quick on its feet. How speedy are those long strides?

peacock A family of peafowl is called a “bevy,” but does speed run in the family? How quickly can these colorful birds run?

G R A P H I C A LLY S P E A K I N G Stomach Pancreas

Liver Gall bladder

Esophagus

Trachea

Gimme Shell-ter The inside scoop on Galápagos tortoises

Heart

ILLUSTRATIONS BY AMY BLANDFORD SDZG ILLUSTRATOR

TEXT BY DONNA PARHAM STAFF WRITER

Spleen

e tend to think of a tortoise’s protective shell as an external structure that encloses the body. It’s not. A tortoise’s shell is made up of fused bones—part of its skeleton. You’ll never see a turtle or a tortoise walk out of its shell! MALE VS. FEMALE

6 ft.

Length of a large male Galápagos tortoise

8 / ZOONOOZ / JULY 2018

Male

Unlike the flat plastron of a female tortoise, a male tortoise has a slightly concave plastron with thickened knobs at the rear margin. A male tortoise has a longer tail.

>100 years Female

Longevity in the wild. In managed care, they may live as long as 150 years.

ISLAND TORTOISES Carapace

A fusion of modified trunk vertebrae and ribs, along with dermal bone.

Gonads

Kidney

Lungs Large lungs are located just under the carapace.

When Charles Darwin made his historic voyage around the Galápagos Islands on the HMS Beagle, he noticed that each island seemed to have a slightly different tortoise subspecies—uniquely suited for survival in that particular island’s environment. In general, though, their carapace shapes fall into one of three main groups. DOMED High on the slopes of volcanoes, vegetation is lush and grows close to the ground.

•

• CARAPACE A steeply domed carapace puts their head—and mouth—at food level, close to the ground. • NECK • LEGS

A short neck is sufficient—food is abundant. Short legs are sufficient for these low-grazing tortoises.

INTERMEDIATE In more variable habitats, shell shape is a compromise that offers the best combination of adaptations.

Intestines

• CARAPACE Flat, but with a moderate-size opening in the front. • NECK Long, but not as long as a saddleback’s. • LEGS Long, but not as long as a saddleback’s. Bladder

•

SADDLEBACK Bridge

Plastron

The plastron is a fusion of the sternum and the pectoral girdle, along with dermal bone.

10 out of 13 Galápagos tortoise subspecies that have survived

•

The carapace and the plastron are connected by a bony bridge that typically extends between the limbs on each side.

Smaller islands offer a drier, scrubbier habitat, with more limited food resources.

• CARAPACE A large, tall opening at the front gives these tortoises room to stretch up their long neck. • NECK A very long neck stretches up to reach leaves, flowers, and cactuses that grow higher off the ground. • LEGS

Longer legs help these tortoises reach their food.

SUPER DIEGO SAVES ESPAÑOLA

In the 1970s, researchers brought the last 12 tortoises—10 females and 2 males— on the island of Española to the Charles Darwin Research Station. But there was another Española tortoise: “M21,” who had been living at the Zoo since the 1930s. So, the Zoo sent M21 to the research station to be part of the breeding population. Those three males have since repopulated Española Island and have sired more than 1,500 hatchlings. M21— known locally as Super Diego—has been the number-one male breeder.

> 500 lbs. Weight of a large male Galápagos tortoise

SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL / SANDIEGOZOO.ORG / 9

And Then There 10 / ZOONOOZ / JULY 2018

he ambles across the dusty landscape, sun beating down on her furrowed back. Her daughter Fatu, now 18 years old, joins her, and their horns gently brush in greeting. Dark eyes take in the pair of armed guards—friends, really—who hover nearby protecting them at Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya. While Najin’s big, burly, barrel-shaped body cannot shield them from poachers’ bullets, the courageous guards surely will. Side by side, the rhinos’ widelipped mouths daintily mow all things green along the ground: they are grass-powered and mighty. Since beloved Sudan, Najin’s 45-year-old father, passed away last March from age-related health issues, this duo is the last of their kind on the planet.

HOW DID WE GET HERE?

Were Two San Diego Zoo Global supports and contributes to boots-on-the-ground, anti-poaching efforts in Africa. BY KARYL CARMIGNANI | STAFF WRITER PHOTOS BY KEN BOHN | SDZG PHOTOGRAPHER

Unrelenting poaching—driven by greed and corruption, outdated cultural beliefs, and little mercy—is marching all five rhino species toward annihilation. Killing a two-ton animal for its fivepound horn, to be crushed into dust and consumed as a folk remedy or flaunted as a status symbol, is morally reprehensible. Yet it happens every single day. Surviving for millions of years, the northern subspecies of the white rhino, Ceratotherium simum cottoni now stands, stubby horns held high, on the precipice of certain extinction. The northern white rhino once ranged over parts of Uganda, Chad, Sudan, the Central African Republic, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), formerly Zaire. In the 1960s, there were about 2,360 northern white rhinos, but civil war and persistent poaching reduced them to a single population of about 15 animals at the Garamba National Park in northeastern DRC. As war raged and ebbed around them, a courageous woman, Kes Hillman-Smith, Ph.D., coordinated conservation and protection efforts in the park for over 20 years, and gradually coaxed the northern white population up to 35 animals. In 2004, the first wave of poachers entered the park. Hillman-Smith told The Telegraph newspaper of London at the time, “Unless there is a major level of support, we are going to lose the last population of northern white rhinos.” Sadly, she was correct. The backup plan was to breed northern white SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL / SANDIEGOZOO.ORG / 11

The Crash: It is hoped that the group of southern white rhinos at the Safari Park will reproduce and eventually be surrogate mothers to northern white rhino calves.

rhinos in zoos and parks, creating an assurance population beyond the reach of poachers and war. Twenty-two northern white rhinos were collected from Africa for this effort between 1948 and the mid 1970s. Despite efforts to breed them at Dvůr Králové Zoo in the Czech Republic and at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, only one female, Nasima, reproduced. It was hoped that Angalifu and Nola would breed at the Safari Park, but they never hit it off. Both rhinos became elderly; Angalifu passed away in December 2014 and Nola died in November 2015. One of Nasima’s offspring, Najin, is the only female with next-generation bragging rights: she gave birth in 2000 to Fatu, the last northern white rhino ever born. In 2009, the final four fertile animals—two males and two females—were moved from the Czech Republic back to Africa in a last-ditch breeding effort. To ward off poachers, the 4 rhinos were under 24-hour armed surveillance at Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya. Suni, a male, died in 2014, followed 12 / ZOONOOZ / JULY 2018

SOUTHERN WHITE RHINO

by the other male, Sudan, in 2018, without producing offspring. Najin and her daughter are infertile.

WHERE ARE WE HEADED? It’s a cool, overcast morning, and Nikita and Amani are still snuggled up in the barn at the 3.5-acre Nikita Kahn Rhino Rescue Center at the Safari Park. Barbara Durrant, Ph.D., director of Reproductive Sciences, and Parker Pennington, Ph.D., postdoctoral associate, haul out the required gear to conduct

a transrectal ultrasound scan on two southern white rhinos. “We could not do any of this rhino work without the keepers,” said Barbara. “They have trained the animals through positive reinforcement and have built up trust. They know the nuances of each animal.” All of that comes into play when getting an animal that weighs as much as an SUV to saunter into a chute and remain still for 20 to 30 minutes, while the scientists observe and document her complex reproductive tract with an ultrasound probe. It’s

The southern white rhino is the largest rhino species, weighing up to 5,000 pounds and reaching 6 feet tall at the bulky shoulder. Found primarily in South Africa, this subspecies had been hunted to near extinction in the early 1900s. A small crash of about 40 animals was protected in South Africa, and their numbers slowly increased. Today, they number about 20,000 animals—by far the most numerous of rhino species— but unfortunately, poaching remains a chronic threat.

a long reach, requiring shoulderlength gloves, since a rhino’s ovaries are nearly four feet deep inside her abdomen. The exam is part art form, part rapt concentration, as researchers do not want to damage the membrane surrounding the passageway. Keepers manage the front end of the rhino, feeding her fruits, vegetables, and hay while talking to her. If there is any indication of discomfort, or she seems unsettled, they immediately discontinue the procedure. “It’s all voluntary,” said Barbara. “Animal welfare is our top priority.” In November 2015, six southern white rhinos arrived at the Safari Park from private reserves in South Africa. Locals were grateful the animals were being relocated, as the people simply cannot protect them from poachers marauding in the vast wildlife reserves. The Rhino Rescue Center was built at the Safari Park expressly to home these rhinos for this science-based conservation project. The goal is to develop and perfect assisted reproductive technologies to enable southern white rhinos to serve as surrogate mothers for the northern white rhino, and eventually lead to a self-sustaining population of northern whites.

It’s a complicated endeavor, as little is known about white rhino ovarian dynamics, ovulation cycles (females randomly toggle between 30- and 70-day cycles), and follicle growth. Currently, artificial insemination (AI) techniques are being worked out, hence the weekly ultrasound scans to monitor ovulation and follicle development in each animal. Last May, early pregnancy was detected in Victoria, making her the first rhino in our history to become pregnant through artificial insemination. Through this detailed study, “This work will generate knowledge to aid in the conservation of this species and many others,” said Barbara. The AI process is first being tried to produce southern white rhino calves. They will be a huge boost to the North American zoo population, which is not currently self-sustaining due to limited reproduction. Eventually, the hope is that all six female southern white rhinos—Amani, Helena, Livia, Nikita, Victoria, and Wallis—will become surrogate moms for northern white rhino calves, through assisted reproduction (embryo transfer). At about 10 years old, Amani was the first for AI—and also San

Reproduction Riddles Adding to the mystery and complexity of rhino reproduction was the discovery that female southern white rhinos born in zoo settings tend not to bear offspring as often as their wild-living counterparts (or other rhino species). As it turns out, southern white rhinos are sensitive to compounds called phytoestrogens found in soy and alfalfa, as well as vitaminpacked rhino pellets, which make up the bulk of their diet in zoos. When a rhino absorbs the “imposter,” plant-based (phyto) estrogens, they can disrupt the endocrine system and hormone levels. This then affects the fertility of that rhino’s daughters at adulthood. “During the 16-month gestation period, female calves are exposed to phytoestrogens through their mother’s diet, which can result in permanent fertility issues later in life,” said Christopher Tubbs, Ph.D., senior scientist, Reproductive Sciences, San Diego Zoo Global (SDZG). The nutritional services team at SDZG changed the diet of our southern white rhinos in 2014, reducing the amount of phytoestrogen-rich pellets. Then a team developed a grassbased pellet that is low in phytoestrogen and provides nutrients to support reproduction. This has increased successful pregnancy among some of the rhinos, but a few have not yet become pregnant. Digging deeper into the fertility issue, Candace Williams, Ph.D., postdoctoral associate in Reproductive Sciences, San Diego Zoo Global, is analyzing gut microbiota and southern white rhino fertility. Comparing greater one-horned rhino gut microorganisms to those of southern white rhinos, the team hopes to elucidate what is driving the differences in sensitivity to plantderived compounds, and what microbes are metabolizing phytoestrogens. This information can be used to improve the diet and fertility in southern white rhinos. Often, the tiniest things make the biggest impact!

SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL / SANDIEGOZOO.ORG / 13

Diego Zoo Global’s first attempt to artificially inseminate a rhino. While neither of those two procedures resulted in a pregnancy, it was a tremendous learning experience for the team, improving the chances of success in the near future, as Victoria’s pregnancy attests. Amani may breed naturally with Maoto (the Park’s southern white rhino bull), and if succeessful, her first pregnancy will grease the wheels for later reproduction.

THE FUTURE IS NOW In 1979, the first northern white rhino genetic material was added to San Diego Zoo Global’s Frozen Zoo®. “It was an exercise in taking the long view,” observed Oliver Ryder, Ph.D., director of Conservation Genetics at the San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research. “The Frozen Zoo started when today’s technology was beyond reasonable imagination. Yet we had confidence that these materials would be productive and used to help save species.” There are viable cell cultures from 12 northern white rhinos cryopreserved in the Frozen Zoo, and their genome sequences reveal “sufficient variations to save this subspecies.” The southern white rhino underwent a genetic bottleneck (down to about 40 animals), and took until 2012 to rebound to 20,000 animals; the northern whites declined even more precipitously. But the genetic diversity in even 12 cell lines could rescue this subspecies. It will require long-term, multidisciplinary science, including expertise from animal care staff, behavioral biology, genetics, reproductive physiology, endocrinology, disease management, and nutrition. The simplest way to begin to generate a northern white rhino offspring is to fertilize an ovum (egg cell) with sperm—but unfortunately ova from northern white rhinos have not been preserved. However, there is preserved ovarian tissue that may contain stem cells and immature ova; plus, our ability to reprogram skin cells into stem cells and produce functional sperm and 14 / ZOONOOZ / JULY 2018

eggs is improving rapidly. Barbara noted that “other reproductive possibilities on our radar include creating a hybrid between the southern white rhino and the northern white rhino, or cloning the animal,” if that’s feasible with this species. The only certainty is that resurrecting the northern white rhino will involve stem cell resources. “We are realistic, yet confident that what we’re trying to do here can change the future of conservation,” said Oliver. “The optimistic intention of the Frozen Zoo is now showing potential.”

ETHICS AND EXTINCTION Bringing an extinct animal back is not without its thorny ethical issues. Some say we should just “let things play out, as extinction is natural.” Discussion of bringing back an animal like the woolly mammoth, while popular in the media, is problematic for several reasons, including that it went extinct 10,000 years ago, and its habitat no longer exists. The northern white rhino, however, has been decimated very recently by humans, and its habitat is still relatively plentiful within its range. Many feel we have a moral obligation to save species our actions caused to decline. This project is developing “a tool kit for when the wild is a safe place to put them back,” said Parker, “and these techniques and protocols could benefit other species as well.” By the time a northern white rhino calf is on the ground, it is hoped that the poaching epidemic will have receded. San Diego Zoo Global is committed to leading the fight against extinction. With our partners and a multidisciplinary approach, we are optimistic that one day we will have a northern white rhino calf trotting beside its southern white rhino mother. Being good stewards of the Earth isn’t easy, but it is necessary. “We recognize we’re playing a role that shapes the future of biodiversity,” said Oliver. “We have a stewardship obligation to explore the possibilities.” Fortunately, the rhinos at the Safari Park can help us do the right thing.

DID YOU KNOW? We are focused first on artificial insemination, then fertilization in vitro by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI; pronounced ick-see), and then an embryo transfer, which has never been done on a rhino.

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a world of entertainment waiting at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park this summer. Enjoy acrobatic feats, rhythmic drumming, lively music, colorful dance, and more from Asia, the Pacific Islands, India, Africa, and South America. Tempt your taste buds with a world of flavors and international selections at our restaurants,â&#x20AC;&#x201D; plus enjoy our outstanding craft beer choices. Meet our animal ambassadors and experience an adventure on one of our many safaris, and make it a summer to remember! Open until 7 p.m. daily.

sdzsafaripark.org/summersafari

Beguiling Little Devils

Meet the San Diego Zoo's two newest marsupial residents BY ESTON ELLIS | STAFF WRITER PHOTOS BY KEN BOHN | SDZG PHOTOGRAPHER

Conrad Prebys Australian Outback at the Zoo has two new residents, and they’re already getting attention from guests: Tasmanian devils McLovin, described as a “laid-back” male; and Quirindi, a “shy” female. The pair arrived in November 2017 from Australia’s Taronga Western Plains Zoo. They recently completed their 30-day quarantine and already have admirers. “So many people I meet don’t even realize Tasmanian devils are real animals that actually exist—they’re not just a cartoon character,” said Katie Tomlinson, senior keeper. “The San Diego Zoo is one of only six zoos in the US that has Tasmanian devils right now. So, we have a great opportunity to educate people about these unique and endangered carnivorous marsupials.” Found only on the island of Tasmania, Tasmanian devils live in eucalyptus forests, coastal scrublands, and farming areas. The island’s top carnivore, the Tasmanian devil is a nocturnal feeder that may travel up to 10 miles in pursuit of food—usually carrion (dead animals), but occasionally live prey, such as birds or small mammals. They got their “devil” name from their vocalizations, which early European settlers found frightening, including fierce-sounding growls, snarls, and high-pitched shrieks the animals make to establish dominance, usually when they are feeding together on a carcass. 16 / ZOONOOZ / JULY 2018

“Despite the name, Tasmanian devils are not vicious— although they will defend themselves,” Katie said. “They are actually quite shy and elusive.”

ON BEHALF OF THE DEVIL The San Diego Zoo has partnered with Taronga Zoo in an effort to help people learn more about this unusual animal, and to inspire support for conservation programs to help this endangered species survive. Currently, Tasmanian devil populations in their native habitats have decreased by more than 80 percent because of the devastating spread of a rare contagious cancer: Devil Facial Tumor Disease (DFTD). The disease—limited, so far, to Tasmania, and not contagious to humans—is spread when devils bite each other while

feeding together or mating. Infected animals usually die within six months to a year. Researchers are working on a vaccine to prevent the spread of the disease among the Tasmanian devil populations. San Diego Zoo Global, along with research institutes and other zoos, supports the Save the Tasmanian Devil Program, a government initiative established in 2003 to respond to the threat of DFTD. Its mission is to combat the epidemic to ensure the survival of the Tasmanian devil and help native populations recover. As ambassadors for their species, McLovin and Quirindi are playing an important role in the effort to support Tasmanian devil conservation. As San Diego Zoo guests learn more about Tasmanian devils, they can also discover what is needed to help these remarkable animals.

This page: McLovin may be "laid-back," but like all Tasmanian devils, he can display a flash of temper with a sneeze-like chuff, a snarl, a scream, or a flush of red in his ears. Opposte page: Quirindi is less gregarious, but this confident female has quickly made herself at home at the Zoo.

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HOW THEY GOT HERE Last year, in preparation for the Tasmanian devils’ arrival, Katie traveled to Australia and trained for several weeks with the marsupial team at Taronga Zoo. “I was a koala keeper for my first six years at the San Diego Zoo, so I felt right at home,” she said. “They were so accommodating and hospitable to me while I was learning everything I could about Tasmanian devils, to bring that knowledge back here.” McLovin and Quirindi came back with Katie, after the animals completed a one-month pre-flight quarantine at Taronga Zoo. Their plane ride to the US took 14 hours, and pre-flight preparations added 3 more. The goal was to make sure McLovin and Quirindi were comfortable in their crates and temperature-controlled surroundings during the flight, and then get them into their new home at the San Diego Zoo as quickly as possible. “The head keeper met up with me at LAX when we arrived from Australia,” Katie said. “It was about a 24-hour process from start to finish, but it was great to see how they immediately got comfortable in their exhibit.” When they arrived at the Zoo, the two devils were able to do their post-flight quarantine right in their exhibits, since they would not initially have contact with any other animals—and keepers took extra precautions to

Tasmanian devils use their strong sense of smell to locate food. Keepers stimulate their natural behaviors, scattering food and enrichment items throughout their exhibit and providing substrate for them to dig in and bury food items.

keep out any potential contaminants. “It was much better than having them off in another facility,” Katie said. “Both McLovin and Quirindi had their post-shipment exams about a month and a half after they got here, and everything went great.”

GETTING TO KNOW YOU “There are so many things most people don’t know about Tasmanian devils,” Katie said. “For instance, as a marsupial, the females carry their young in a pouch, like a kangaroo. Tasmanian devils are the largest carnivorous marsupial on Earth, and they have tremendous jaw pressure, which allows them to tear through flesh and crush bone—eating meat, bones and all—as they feed on a carcass.”

Vaccinations Keeping Our Animals Healthy A promising vaccine for devil facial tumor disease (DFTD) is currently undergoing trials with Tasmanian devils that are being released on their native island. Because Quirindi and McLovin came to the San Diego Zoo from disease-free assurance populations in zoos on the Australia mainland, they will not need to be vaccinated for DFTD. However, many other types of vaccinations are given to animals at the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, to help prevent a variety of health issues. “The purpose of vaccinating animals at the Zoo and Safari Park is to protect them from infectious diseases—very few

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of which we even see here anymore,” explained Dr. Cora Singleton, senior veterinarian, San Diego Zoo Veterinary

Services. “But we continue to vaccinate to prevent that one case we might see in the future.” Vaccinations strengthen the immune system and can either completely prevent an infection or can make illness from infection much less severe. “Many of our vaccines are for carnivores—canids and felids,” Cora said. “A few species need very specific vaccines similar to vaccinations given to domesticated dogs, cats, cows, horses, and even humans. These include rabies for any animal that has contact with the public, parvovirus and distemper for carnivores, and seasonal flu vaccines for bonobos, among others.” A special distemper vaccine originally developed for ferrets (different from the one for dogs) is given to the Zoo’s giant pandas and red pandas. Many animals

At the Zoo, the Tasmanian devils—McLovin and Quirindi, and Debbie, who came to the Zoo in 2013—each have their own enclosure in the Zoo’s Conrad Prebys Australian Outback. In their native habitat, Tasmanian devils are naturally solitary animals that come together mainly for meals or mating. “The way their Australian Outback exhibit is set up, each devil’s space is separate,” Katie said. “We rotate them, so they are continually exploring a new space with all new smells.” The enclosures have plants for the devils to hide in, extra mulch to dig around in, and a tucked-away den to rest in. “They like to be in dark places,” Katie said. The devils get different meat items each day, which may include rabbit, rats, mice, fish, and beef, along with bones. “In their native habitat, they often eat carrion, and they never know what they might find from one day to the next. We try to simulate that variety. We also scatter their food—Tasmanian devils have a really good sense of smell, so we encourage them to use it to seek out food.” Occasionally, the devils get whole prey items, to allow them to use their strong jaws and teeth. The keepers also provide them with a variety of enrichment items, including hay bedding that is moved from one Tasmanian devil’s enclosure to another. “They like a lot of scents, and those offer some great smells.” Additional enrichment items include boxes and papier mâché to tear up, and substrates like piles of dirt or leaves to dig in and bury food items.

receive a tetanus vaccination for the same reason that people do, Cora said. “If an animal gets an injury, we don’t want them to be at risk for developing tetanus.” Most vaccinations protect against disease caused by viruses or bacteria, Cora said. “We vaccinate many birds against West Nile virus, which is spread by mosquitos. But in general, we do not vaccinate against avian influenza unless there is an outbreak.” The reason? Because the vaccine puts a little of the virus in an animal’s system, it becomes impossible to test whether a vaccinated animal actually has avian influenza or not. “There is regulatory testing of migratory birds all over the country,” Cora said. “Knowing when and where avian influenza is appearing in the migratory

ARF! Tasmanian devils have their own way of saying hello, which keepers call an “arf,” because that’s what it sounds like. When they first see keepers each day, McLovin and Quirindi greet them with an arf. “McLovin did it right away,” Katie said. “Quirindi has gradually started to do it.” Another vocalization the devils sometimes make is a “chuff,” which sounds something like a sneeze. They make that sound when they are expressing wariness or caution. The two newcomers have very different personalities. “McLovin is more outgoing, and lives up to his name—which, by the way, we didn’t give him, but visitors love it,” Katie said. “He is so personable with keepers, and he’s always eager to be where we are.” Quirindi is less gregarious and spends more time in her den, “but she’s mellowing a little, so we’re getting a better idea of what her personality is now.” Tasmanian devils are nocturnal, so don’t be surprised if you see them sleeping or relaxing in the sun during the day. “They are much more active during evening, and they are especially active at feeding times,” Katie said. This summer’s Nighttime Zoo—taking place through September 3—offers longer Zoo hours, giving you more chances to see McLovin, Quirindi, and Debbie at their most active, and learn more about Australia’s fascinating, endangered Tasmanian devils.

bird population helps us decide if we need to put protective measures in place.” Zoo and Park vaccinations are part of our preventative medicine program, Cora said. Many animals—including some big cats, bears, apes, and ambassador animals—participate in their own health care by voluntarily presenting parts of their body for vaccinations, a behavior they learn in husbandry training. Some other larger animals may get a vaccination while standing in a transfer chute. Reptiles do not receive vaccinations, Cora said, because none have been proven effective for them. “After vaccination, we can test the animal's response to the vaccine," Cora said. “With a small blood sample, we can measure the antibody production stimulated by the vaccine. This titer test is

similar to tests done for humans, which measures one aspect of the immune system. If a titer is below a certain level, the animal may need a booster vaccine.” While the Zoo and Safari Park have had vaccination programs for many years, there have been major changes in protocols, Cora said. “Zoo science and health care have improved over time, making today's vaccines more effective with fewer side effects. Additionally, most animals that arrive at the Zoo are from other facilities accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Accreditation by the AZA ensures that member institutions meet high standards for animal care, which promotes the health of the general population.”

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ROCK ON The Zoo’s newest exhibit is on a roll with lots of new faces BY PEGGY SCOTT | ASSOCIATE EDITOR & WENDY PERKINS | STAFF WRITER

PHOTOS BY KEN BOHN | SDZG PHOTOGRAPHER

No matter where you look, there is something incredible to see—and hear. Representing a place famous for its biodiversity, Conrad Prebys Africa Rocks is an immersive experience of that awe-inspiring continent. There are signs to guide you, yet the landscape alone tells you you’ve arrived in a special place. Strange, startling, and beautiful plants stand sentry: red hot poker trees; slim, young baobobs; and multi-branched, “Suessical” Madagascar ocotillos—also aptly called octopus trees. The plant life becomes “curiouser and curiouser,” and there are more marvels ahead—and in every direction. KEEPING UP WITH THE KOPJE The savannas in many countries in Africa are dotted with exposed stone mounds called kopjes, which offer special shelter to a wide variety of animals. At Africa Rocks, the Kopje’s granite boulder habitat is shared by chubby little rock hyraxes, sleek dwarf mongooses, and nimblefooted klipspringers. They all have their favorite rocks to sun on, tucked-away hiding places, and the chance to get up high and see the Zoo—and visitors—around them. One of the most striking Kopje inhabitants is the bateleur eagle. With its glossy black and gray plumage accentuated by a bright red face and feet, it is a photogenic eye-catcher. You may get a chance to see this avian wonder’s six-foot wingspan,

as the habitat offers room for the birds to spread their wings and fly from perch to perch, showing the agile aerobatics they are known for (bateleur is French for “street performer”). The Kopje is also home to the red-leafed rock fig, a hardy, semi-decidous ficus known as the “rock splitter” for its ability to grow sideways and on rock faces and outcrops, as its branching roots seek water and nutrients.

GET THE BIG PICTURE Africa Rocks gives a glimpse into the amazing biodiversity found on the continent of Africa, which is home to the greatest variety of iconic animals and plants on Earth. And while this is the largest and most complex exhibit area we’ve built to date, we couldn’t fit in all the vastness

we wanted to represent. So take a few moments to ponder the gorgeous infographic-style mural just below the Kopje. It breaks down the mind-boggling numbers: 8 of the world’s 34 biodiversity hotspots are in Africa; 5,000 types of fish; 2,000 bird species; 1,229 mammal species, and more. You’ll discover that Africa is home to the world’s largest desert, the largest continuous rain forest, and the biggest lake. In addition to counting out the wildlife and geographic stats, the infographic shows that humans count, too—highlighting some of San Diego Zoo Global’s conservation efforts there.

ROCK ME, HAMADRYAS Approaching the hamadryas baboon exhibit in the Ethiopian Highlands, you’re likely

to feel as though Clockwise from top left: you’ve stepped Hamadryas into a day in baboon troop the life of an out in force; Madagascar active famocotillos ily—any family. beckon; gelada Our hamadryas and Nubian ibex share quarters; troop is 20 black-headed strong, and weaver at work; there’s always red ruffed something going lemur lounging; bateleur eagle on: the grownin for a landing; ups socialize Congo tetras while keeping an school. eye on the rambunctious youngsters. The kids romp and play until someone gets their feelings hurt, and then they scamper back to the protective arms of Mom or a trusted Auntie. Their spacious habitat gives these baboons many options throughout the day—and they use all of them. Reciprocal grooming strengthens group bonds, and the steady

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A leopard on the prowl.

yellow-gold eyes—those of a magnificent leopard—looking back at you. The big cats’ leisurely pose is belied by the intensity of their gaze. The next exhibit, which houses vervet monkeys, is the exact opposite of leisurely. The gregarious group engages in grooming, pole climbing, spirited games of chase, and, in the case of the youngsters, wrestling matches that rival the best the WWE could offer. Gourd puzzles and other enrichment placed throughout the area keeps these clever monkeys engaged. presence of leader Elvis makes for a communal atmosphere. The dynamics of the group’s complex social structure, combined with their intelligence, curiosity, and agility, result in activity that can make it hard for guests to tear themselves away. Continuing into the Ethiopian Highlands, you will discover another impressive African primate: the gelada. This silky-maned monkey seems to wear its heart on its chest, but the characteristic red, hourglassshaped patch of skin actually serves as a sign of reproductive readiness. As a primate that eats mostly grasses, the geladas have access to plants growing in the exhibit (as well as the selected grasses they are provided as their regular diet), and watching them pluck grass is fascinating. If you think all blades are created the same, pause to appreciate the

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painstaking care with which each gelada selects its green morsels. Green thumbs and sophisticated palates apparently go hand in hand! The geladas share their rocky habitat with another highlands species: a group of Nubian ibex. Their dramatic headgear doesn’t seem to slow them down a bit. These members of the goat family nimbly race up the hillsides and leap up onto the rocks for a wide view of their surroundings. They nap under rocky overhangs and even stand up on their hind legs, carefully balancing, to nibble leaves from the trees in the exhibit.

OF MONKEYS, MAGPIES, AND MORE As you stroll into Acacia Woodland, you may hear some of its residents even before you see them. Against the backdrop of camel thorn acacia trees, this habitat

is home to an expansive walk-though aviary. All the busy activities—nest building, mate seeking, turf defending—are set to the soundtrack of chirps, peeps, squawks, and twitters (the feathered kind). As the blackheaded weavers ply their trade building nests—hanging upside-down from the structures—their back-andforth chattering serves as play-by-play commentary. Waxbills, starlings, magpie mannikins, and other feathered friends add to the symphony of calls as they go about their business. The aviary is vertically designed to accommodate a large number of birds. More than 30 different species inhabit different levels of the aviary, from treetops to the ground. Continuing through the Woodland, glance toward cozy alcoves and other convenient lounging spots and you may land upon a pair of

MAD ABOUT MADAGASCAR The Madagascar Forest habitat in Africa Rocks represents elements from two types of forest: dense rain forest and dry spiny forest. As you pass either of the two particular exhibits, you’re in for a true “is-that-a-cat-ordog-or-monkey?” moment. Stop to study the enigmatic fossa, a muscular, stealthy carnivore that also happens to be the apex predator of Madagascar. Their golden eyes seem to glow with secrets that this charismatic creature is not sharing. Then, you’ll want to “move it, move it” over to the lemur habitat, where red ruffed lemurs relax in the grass, and misters offer a cooling respite for the ring-tailed lemurs as they enjoy some shade. You might even be treated to an exhibition of Spiderman-level leaps from pole to pole as our irrepressible

sifakas make their way around with flair that rivals a Cirque du Soleil performance.

COOL CUSTOMERS The pathway leads to the West African Forest, where animals and plants from that area’s rain forests, dense lowland forests, coastal mangroves, rivers, swamps, and wetlands make their home. Come eye to eye with a real blast from the past, the prehistoric-looking African dwarf crocodile. Whether gliding through the water or basking on the beach, these reptiles are fascinating. This year, the Zoo welcomed its first-ever hatching of dwarf crocodile babies, and these are definitely the cutest crocs you’ve ever seen! Be sure to take the time to spot the Madagascar big-headed turtle and the West African mud turtle, two interesting species that share an impressive watery home in Rady Madagascar Habitat and Falls. There’s also a refreshing stop along your route to the next habitat. You can walk behind Rady Falls, a 65-foot-tall waterfall, into a cavern-like grotto to get a one-of-a-kind view through a wall of tumbling water.

PENGUIN PLACE Your next stop is Cape Fynbos, and its star inhabitants are dressed to the nines. Whether they’re waddling on the beach or zipping through the water like pint-sized torpedoes, our African penguins at the Dan and Vi McKinney Penguin Habitat are show-

stoppers. Linger by the glass window at the exhibit’s beach to watch the goings-on of our highly social penguins. Watch carefully, and see if you can catch a bit of drama that may unfold: beak-to-beak tussles over potential mates and/ or food, “flirting,” or simply “hey, this is my spot!” Then explore the wide, underwater viewing area—it’s a whole new world, and the penguins’ movements and interactions are different, too. Zooming through the water, they seem to be engaged in a game of tag or catch-me-ifyou-can. They zig From top: and zag over, unVervet monkeys der, and between keep things the large fish that lively; African share the saltwater penguins glide through the realm—and the water; African latter don’t seem dwarf crocodiles to notice a bit. catch some rays; a guest Among the pool’s photographs gilled denizens are a monitor leopard sharks. lizard animal ambassador. These are a species native to Southern California, but they are closely related to the similar gully sharks of South Africa, which peacefully share habitat with penguins along the coastline there. The slow, gentle movements of the sharks, as well as the giant kelpfish, ocean whitefish, and opaleye in the pool, are a sort of smooth bass line to the high energy beat the penguins lay down. Lemurs leaping, baboons basking, weavers...well, weaving, leopards lounging, and crocs cruising, all surrounded by fantastic flora. Africa Rocks, indeed!

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Stay into the evening and help us celebrate the San Diego Zoo’s newest experience, Conrad Prebys Africa Rocks! Bring family and friends to “rock and roar” every night this summer, with live music, a variety of surprise encounters, and vibrant entertainment that will add a chorus of excitement to your summertime plans. A procession of larger-than-life animal puppets headlines an end-of the-evening performance, and be sure to stop by Albert’s Restaurant for Happy Happens cocktail and appetizer specials. Plus, our colorful, energetic, and multisensory new show, "Call of the Night," begins on June 30. Rock—and roar—on! Find out more at sandiegozoo.org/nighttimezoo.

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S U P P O RT

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JAMAICA

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Turks & Caicos iguana

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Alala Coral trees Hawaiian forest birds Hawaiian hawk Maui parrotbill Nene

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Mangrove finch Galápagos pink land iguana PERU/AMAZON REGION

Andean bear Giant otter Jaguar Paca Uakari White-lipped peccary Woolly monkey

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ETHIOPIA

CHAD

Slender-horned gazelle Gelada monkey KENYA

Canada

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Anna’s hummingbird Burrowing owl California condor California least tern Coastal cactus wren Coastal patch-nosed snake Flat-tailed horned lizard Light-footed Ridgway’s rail Mexican flannelbush Mountain yellow-legged frog Orcutt’s bird’s-beak Otay tarplant Pacific pocket mouse Quino checkerspot butterfly Ring-tailed cat Salt marsh bird’s-beak San Bernardino kangaroo rat San Clemente loggerhead shrike San Diego thornmint Short-leaved dudleya Tecate cypress Torrey pine Western pond turtle Western snowy plover

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African elephant African lion Black rhinoceros Grevy’s zebra Hirola antelope Leopard Reticulated giraffe White-backed vulture

MADAGASCAR EG

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Aye-aye Red ruffed lemur Ring-tailed lemur

H AWA I I

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West African slendersnouted crocodile Ruppell’s vulture

COSTA RICA

CAYMAN ISLANDS

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CÔTE D’IVOIRE

Cheetah

African forest elephant DEMOCRATIC Chimpanzee REPUBLIC OF CONGO Drill Western lowland gorilla Okapi

Polar bear

BOTSWANA CAMEROON

Anegada rock iguana

US W R EN ACT

NORTH AMERICA

AFRICA

CARIBBEAN

CONSERVATION PROJECTS AND PARTNERSHIPS

Mojave Desert Kauai, HI Maui, HI Big Island, HI

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Rodrigues fruit bat SENEGAL

Baja California, Mexico Jamaica

Galápagos Islands

Giant eland

Turks & Caicos Is.

HO R N S H EE P

A LA LA

REPUBLIC OF MAURITIUS

Riverside County, CA San Diego County, CA Sonora, Mexico

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Anegada

SOUTHERN AFRICA

African penguin Black-footed cat Cape vulture Klipspringer Southern ground hornbill Southern white rhinoceros

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Peru/Amazon Region

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Around theWorld

Your monthly support has a global impact.

BY CAITLIN HANNAH | COPYWRITER, DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

Wildlife around the globe is threatened by poaching, habitat loss, and conflict between humans and animals. Working in 45 countries to save more than 130 species, San Diego Zoo Global is leading the fight to save plants and animals from extinction. By partnering with local communities, investing in science, and rolling up our sleeves, we know that we can turn things around. But we can’t do it without your help. These efforts are only possible with the support of friends like you—and our monthly donors are the lifeline for all we do! Being able to count on your sustaining gift every month—whether $5 or $100—helps us plan and invest in our programs across the globe. From big cats in Asia to tiny birds in Hawaii, every dollar helps in the fight to save these iconic species. Our monthly donors are the backbone of these conservation efforts, providing an incredibly important foundation of support to save wildlife for generations to come. Do you want to save African penguins on sunny beaches of South Africa, rehabilitate baby elephants and giraffes in Kenya, and save California condors in our own backyard? You can! Your monthly donation touches the world, making an impact around the globe—and right here at home. Last year, our incredible donors made so much possible. Donors like you helped: 26 / ZOONOOZ / JULY 2018

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ASIA

I A N T PA N DA

AFGHANISTAN

INDONESIA

Snow leopard

Anoa Banteng North Sulawesi babirusa Orangutan Sumatran tiger

BHUTAN

White-bellied heron

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Asiatic black bear Sun bear

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Dhole Giant panda

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MYANMAR

Asian elephant

Snow leopard Western red panda

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Western red panda

INDIA

PHILIPPINES

Greater one-horned rhinoceros Sloth bear

THAILAND

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Himalayas

Fijian iguana NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS

India Myanmar

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Cameroon

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Mariana crow

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Democratic Republic of Congo

COOK ISLANDS FIJI

China

Sahara Desert Region

OCEANIA

Rimatara lory

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Helmeted hornbill Malayan tapir Saola

HI N E RO

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Visayan warty pig

VIETNAM

Kazakhstan

Przewalski’s horse Saiga

HIMALAYAS

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AUSTRALIA

Koala Lord Howe Is. stick insect

Kenya

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Tree kangaroo

Indonesia

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Tasmanian devil Madagascar Botswana

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V IL Australia Lord Howe Is.

Tasmania

• Release another 29 California condors back into the wild. Once, this species was on the very brink of extinction, with only 22 birds left on Earth, and you helped us bring it back. • Save and protect endangered African penguins by providing desperately needed dens for 82 penguin families, hand raising 115 chicks, and rescuing 58 oiled or injured birds. • Provide a year of antipoaching patrols to protect

rhinos and giraffes in Africa. • Plant 350 prickly pear cactuses to provide homes and safe haven for coastal cactus wrens here in San Diego County. • Feed 4 orphaned elephant calves and their friends all year long—that’s 13,082 bottles of milk, to be precise! Donors just like you have done all of this and so much more, simply by giving to the San Diego Zoo Global Wildlife Conservancy. We can’t do this incredible work without you.

If you haven’t had a chance to sign up to become a monthly donor, now’s the time! Your sustaining gift of just $10 a month could provide 3 weeks of anti-poaching patrols, or homes for 5 penguin families over the course of a year. It’s easy to do. Simply visit endextinction.org/hero. You are the heartbeat of everything we do, and you make hope for wildlife possible. Together, we can turn things around and save wildlife from extinction.

These individuals made extraordinary contributions to San Diego Zoo Global’s conservation efforts in 2017, helping us save plants and animals from extinction around the globe. We can’t thank them enough. Mikel and Sharon Atkins Michael Barnard and Catherine Kim Matthew Buck The Chamberlain Family Maggie Coleman The Collett Family Kendis Hannah Cox Dr. Beverly Liebherr Dexter Mark and Tonie Dunham of Santa Fe, NM Irene S. Figari Donna and Ed Gookin Clifford Hague Sheila A. Hard Mr. and Mrs. Mark and Michaelyn Harris Aubrianna, Kayleen and Clayton Harvey-Imig Janet Horenstein James R. and Nancy C. Jacobs Nick Langenfeld and Megan Adams Lee W. Lenz John and Karen Liu Mickey and Karen Maher and Family The Malachowsky Family Julie and Jim Mason Bill and Barbara May Craig and Susan McClellan Yvonne Morgan and Bill Burmeister Robyn Nietert and Malcolm Stevenson Terri Oba Leslie and Kathleen Odom Erin Paster and Joel Pierce Sabrina Poulos Zachary Read Matt Robertson—Glass Artist Ava and Julie Sabella, SAND+GRIT Jewelry Yira A. Sanchez and Brad Schultz The Sanders Family Nanci and Stephen Schrieber-Smith Jeff Spitko Mark Stuart and Tim Rupe Szekely Family Foundation Linda Tabor-Beck Claire P. Travis Janet Waters Raymond and Joyce Watkins In Honor Of. . . Fred Smith In Memory Of. . . Dr. Richard P. Elander Jerry Fein and Ryan Riseman Kathryn Starritt Want to join the list? For gifts made in 2018 with a cumulative total of $1,200 or more, your name (or that of a loved one) will be listed on the San Diego Zoo Global annual conservation recognition plaque. This plaque will be displayed at the San Diego Zoo from Spring 2019 to Spring 2020. Make your gift at endextinction.org.

SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL / SANDIEGOZOO.ORG / 27

IN THE FIELD

San Diego Zoo Global’s mission to end extinction takes place not just at the Zoo, Park, and Institute for Conservation Research, but also through field projects with more than 130 species in 45 countries. Each issue, we share an update on one of these projects.

BEARS AND BROMELIADS BY KARYL CARMIGNANI | STAFF WRITER

28 / ZOONOOZ / JULY 2018

Though excellent climbers, these omnivores also “eat off of the floor,” taking advantage of seasonal, ground-dwelling plants. Jacob Shanks, lead keeper at the San Diego Zoo (overseeing many bear species), joined the research team in Peru last fall for two weeks. “It was visit-a-job on steroids!” he said. The team changed out remote trail cameras and conducted a bromeliad survey, which is an important seasonal food source for the bears. “It was exciting to look at the images captured in the field on my camera, and be standing right where a puma or bear had been,” he added. “Connecting what we do at the Zoo with what is being done in the wild will benefit this species.” Since 2009, trail cameras have been collecting candid data in this region, and for the past two years, they have been recording wildlife in this specific area. “We are on the edge of learning a great deal about these bears,” said Russ. “We want to help conserve this species before their situation becomes dire.”

PHOTOS COURTESY OF RUSS VAN HORN / SDZG

San Diego Zoo Global (SDZG) works in southeast Peru surveying Andean bears. It’s untamed terrain from the lowland buffer zone of Manu National Park up into cloud forests and grasslands of the eastern slopes of the Andes Mountains, reaching 11,000 feet high. Strategically placed trail cameras have shed light on mysteries of the wildlife in the region, and researchers are “essentially learning what we don’t know,” said Russ Van Horn, Ph.D., scientist, SDZG’s Population Sustainability team. For instance, the bush dog was recorded at over 6,000 feet higher in elevation than previously known. “That’s like saying a species known to inhabit Oceanside, California is also living in Boulder, Colorado,” said Russ. Another pressing question is what influences the Andean bears’ range. “Certain sites we see bears, others not—and there are no obvious differences between trails with and without bears.”

SAN DIEGO’S Wild est TASTING EVENT

Saturday, September 22, 2018 | 6:30 − 10:30 p.m. at the World-Famous San Diego Zoo

SMALL BITES, BIG OFFERINGS

All included! Sample from more than 160 of Southern California’s best food, wine, and beer vendors. Soar above it all on Skyfari®, light up the night at the glow party, and dance like a rock star at 7 live music stages throughout the Zoo.

EAT, DRINK, PARTY— Repeat! VIP and General Admission tickets are available at zoofoodandwine.com. This tasty night for wildlife benefits the San Diego Zoo Global Wildlife Conservancy.

BUY YOUR TICKETS TODAY AT ZOOFOODANDWINE.COM OR 619-718-3000

ZOONOOZ

SAN DIEGO ZOO GLOBAL

Box 120551, San Diego, CA 92112

VISIT WALKABOUT AUSTRALIA AT THE PARK

HAVE YOU EVER DANCED WITH A KANGAROO? No? Then download San Diego Zoo Global’s newest app, Danceabout Australia, and give it a whirl! Danceabout Australia is a virtual reality app that brings a kangaroo into your world, and gives you a choice of tunes and sunny settings for a unique Aussie dance party. He’s got some good moves, too. Snap photos of the action you see on your screen, or hit video and capture the whole performance.

SHARE YOUR KANGAROO DANCE PARTY ON SOCIAL MEDIA! TAG YOUR POST WITH

#WALKABOUTAUSTRALIA.