Keepin' it Wild April - June 2021

Keepin’ it Wild!

April - June 2021

A digital publication of Zoo Miami Foundation and Zoo Miami.

OUR MISSION: The Zoo Miami

Foundation fosters community pride and involvement with Zoo Miami and secures financial support for the zoo.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

- Rhino, tiger, otter, and Somali wild ass births!

- Spring events at Zoo Miami - Mother’s Day & Father’s Day Gifts

Keepin’ it Wild

is a quarterly digital publication of Zoo Miami Foundation that provides information for the friends, supporters and Members of Zoo Miami.

For more information, please contact: Zoo Miami Foundation 12400 SW 152 Street, Miami, FL 33177 (305) 255-5551 / www.zoomiami.org Zoo Miami Foundation’s Mission Zoo Miami Foundation fosters community pride and involvement with Zoo Miami and secures financial support for the zoo.

Zoo Miami Foundation Board of Directors: Chair: Eric Eikenberg Chair-Elect: Jose Felix Diaz Treasurer: John V. Chibbaro Secretary: Brittnie Bassant Past Chair: Jose C. Romano Alan Atkinson Mary Barley Jose Francisco Barros, DDS Brittnie Bassant Sandy Batchelor Alexander “Alex” Binelo Samantha Capparelli Mayor Daniella Levine Cava John V. Chibbaro Jose Felix Diaz Diane Dickhut Eric Eikenberg William “Will” Elgar Armando Fernandez Robert Furniss-Roe Michael Heithaus, PhD Kimberly Kalkus Philip Kushlan George Leser

Daniel J. Licciardi Sharon MacIvor DVM Kathy McDonald Alejandro “Alex” Mendieta William “Bill” Moore Maria I. Nardi Jorge L. Navarro Marc Osheroff Ann Pope Aliette D. Rodz, Esq. Jose C. Romano Katrina Daniel Rosen Michael Rosenberg, DDS Eric J. Stephens Merrett R. Stierheim Peter “Chip” Vendenberg, Jr. Christopher Walters Joseph Wieneke

EMERITI DIRECTORS Rodney L. Barreto Vincent L. Berkeley Jennifer Boin Getz Roger Carlton Harlan S. Chiron, MD Ambassador Sue Cobb Linda Coll William J. Gallwey, III, Esq. Robert W. Hudson, Esq. Sherrill W. Hudson

Bernard Klepach David Konfino James A. Kushlan, PhD Jack Lowell Manny J. Rodriguez, P.E. Edward Soto Lawrence O. Turner, Jr. Diana Udel Ana VeigaMilton, Esq. Andrew H. Weinstein, Esq.

President/CEO: Wiliam W. Moore Zoo Director: William Elgar Zoo Admission Hours: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily Last ticket sold at 4 p.m.

Editor: Rashielle Teape Contributors: Cindy Casteblanco, Sarah Champan, Rob Lara, Jamie Lassonde, Ron Magill, Bill Moore, Andrea Obregon, Jessica Parks, Carlos Simoes, and Katy Wilhelm Layout & Design: Parrot Fish Studio

Photography: Ron Magill

Special thanks to Ana VeigaMilton and the Zoo Miami staff, for without these people, this publication would not be possible.

LETTER FROM THE CEO Dear Friends, Happy Spring! It’s hard to believe that just a year ago, Zoo Miami was closed around this time in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, the whole world was in such a state of uncertainty about how we would move forward. A year later, we’ve adapted to the “new normal” at Zoo Miami, continuing to adhere to health and safety precautions while implementing more digital programming to maximize our reach in educating and engaging our community.

One of the most fun ways that we’ve mixed traditional Zoo experiences with virtual adventure is through our in-park mobile scavenger hunt, EggVenture! For the past month, Zoo guests have been able to enjoy the thrill of searching for Easter eggs via their mobile devices, keeping the spring fun going while remaining safe. Later this month, our Party for the Planet Earth Day celebration will be held in a similar fashion.

Every spring, the natural world welcomes new beginnings, and we like to follow suit here at Zoo Miami. With that in mind, we are proud to welcome the new Director of Zoo Miami, Will Elgar, who comes to us with more than 20 years of valuable experience in zoo animal care, guest experience, and park operations. In addition, the opening of our new Conservation Action Center this past January has been met with great excitement as both new and longtime zoo visitors marvel at the interactive exhibit, creating new memories together.

Of course, as the world of wildlife continues to remind us, just as we celebrate new beginnings and births, like our baby rhino, tiger, otters, Somali wild ass, and more, we must also say farewell to great creatures like Toshi the black rhino, Kashifa the lioness, and Pongo the giraffe. Each life and death carry significant meaning to our Zoo team and the dedicated animal care specialists that get to know our animal residents.

We look forward to the season ahead, and all of the challenges and triumphs that come with it. As always, we are made stronger by our foundation of wonderful zoo supporters, Members, Board directors, and more. Thank you for your continued support. On behalf of Zoo Miami Foundation, we wish you and your family a safe and healthy spring!

If you would like to support Zoo Miami’s mission, please give what you can.

FOLLOW US

BILL MOORE ZMF CEO/ President 2

Thank you!

DONATE NOW!

Inside This Issue

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Conservation Action Center Now Open

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Animal Hospital Visits

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Spring Events

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Mother’s Day & Father’s Day Gifts

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Fathers in the Wild

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Sumatran Tiger Cub Born at Zoo Miami

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Adventures in Learning

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Keeper Corner: Pongo’s Kisses

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Welcome the New Zoo Miami Director

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Tribute to Toshi

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Black Rhino Born at Zoo Miami!

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Quarterly Zoo Miami Foundation Donors

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Otter Pups Born at Zoo Miami

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Somali Wild Ass Birth

Have you seen Zoo Miami’s new commercial?

Thanks to Ron Magill and his team for their awesome work! Check it out and don’t forget to buy your tickets online before visiting us.

BUY TICKETS

NOW OPEN! The Conservation Action Center is a new indoor, interactive exhibit at Zoo Mami! Crawl through a largerthan-life python, whack out environmental threats in Habitat Whack-a-Mole, and see how fast you can scoop the “poop” into compost bins! Come and explore the connections we all have to conservation and see how YOU are helping to save species!

Special thanks to Marc & Robin Osheroff, the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, Florida Power & Light, the Romano Family Foundation, and Miami-Dade County for making the Conservation Action Center possible!

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ANIMAL HOSPITAL VISITS BOBCAT PHYSICAL On January 20, 2021, our seven-yearold bobcat, “Seger,” underwent a general physical exam, led by Associate Veterinarian, Dr. Gabby Flacke with the assistance of the Animal Health team and Animal Science team from Florida: Mission Everglades. His procedures included x-rays, urine and blood collection, dental cleaning, vaccinations, an abdominal ultrasound exam, and a routine eye exam. Initial reports indicated that he’s in excellent health!

ANACONDA EXAM On February 11, 2021, a nearly 100-pound green anaconda measuring more than 13 feet was brought to the Animal Hospital for a physical exam.

It took several individuals to carry this massive constrictor! The exam included blood collection, x-rays, mouth and eye examinations, and an ultrasound.

Fortunately, she was calm throughout the exam and everything indicated that she is in good health!

DHOLE ALLERGY TESTS This past March, two of the zoo’s dholes underwent a series of tests to help determine the causes of intermittent ocular discharge, ear infections, and itchy skin. Just like humans, animals can suffer from a variety of allergies!

Board-certified veterinary dermatologist, Dr. Melanie Hnot from VCA Hollywood assisted Zoo Miami vets in performing a series of allergy tests under anesthesia. The team is awaiting final results for more details!

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mobile scavenger hunt

Join the Egg Venture!

This spring, discover Zoo Miami in a whole new way!

Enjoy a virtual scavenger hunt using your mobile phone to solve clues and redeem treat-filled eggs.

Unique Zoo-themed baskets filled with eggs, a souvenir cup, goodies and more are also available for purchase.

Tickets at shop.ZooMiami.org

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MOBILE IN-PARK SCAVENGER HUNT

CALLING ALL SUPER KIDDOS, HERE’S YOUR CHANCE TO BE A PLANET HERO! Join us for a mobile in-park scavenger hunt that’ll take you through 3 educational missions to save our planet from environmental threats.

Guests who complete 1-2 missions will receive a participation prize. Visitors who complete all 3 get a chance to spin an exclusive prize wheel with special Zoo Miami-themed goodies and be entered into a raffle to win a one-of-a-kind Zoo Miami animal painting!

10 am - 5 pm Tickets at shop.ZooMiami.org

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Celebrate

MOM & DAD!

This year, Mother’s Day is on May 9 and Father’s Day is on June 20!

Here’s a sneak peek at our wild Zoo gift packages to celebrate them! Packages will be available April 15 - June 20, 2021. Keep an eye on your email inbox for more info!

GIVE THEM SOMETHING CREATIVE A limited-edition Adopt an Animal package with a painting by a Zoo Miami animal! $75

HONOR THEIR LEGACY

A Dual Membership & Custom Engraved Brick at Zoo Miami Starting at $215 8

GIFT THEM SOMETHING CUDDLY A Dual Membership & Adopt an Animal Keeper Package Starting at $115

Fathers in the

Wild

Throughout the animal kingdom, you might notice that mothers are typically known to take on the “parenting” responsibilities. From hunting to feed their young to being fiercely protective, moms in the wild will go to great lengths to care for their offspring. But, what about those awesome dads out there? In honor of Father’s Day, here are some fantastic fathers found in the wild.

GORILLAS Protecting and providing are often considered hallmarks of a great dad.

Silverback gorillas take this responsibility seriously, ensuring that their troops are fed and safe. They can serve as remarkable role models for their young, even taking the time to play, entertain, and teach them. They can be especially important in the lives of young gorillas who become separated from their mothers. The infants stick close to their troop’s silverback, even sleeping in his nest at night to stay warm and safe.

FLAMINGOS Whoever said real men wear pink were obviously talking about these feathered fathers! In the spirit of equality, both parents split their nesting duties, taking turns incubating their egg. Then, after the chick is born, both mom and dad feed them with “crop milk,” a fluid produced in their digestive systems.

GOLDEN LION TAMARINS These red heads are typically born as twins, so it’s no wonder mom needs a helping hand. Fathers do their best to help out by carrying their young on their backs between feedings. Golden lion tamarin infants will hitch a ride on dad’s back until they are about six to eleven weeks old!

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Sumatran TigEr Cub BORN AT ZOO MIAMI! We are thrilled to announce and welcome the birth of a critically endangered Sumatran tiger cub here at Zoo Miami!

This female cub was actually born on January 5, 2021, and has since been spending some quality time in seclusion with her mother, “Leeloo.” This is the nine-year-old mother’s second birth and she is a particularly nervous and protective mother, so extra precautions have been taken to isolate her and her new cub.

The Zoo’s animal care team waited until March 3rd to conduct the cub’s first neonatal exam, where she weighed in at around 14.3 pounds – growing rapidly since her estimated three-pound birth weight! During this exam, she also received her first set of vaccines as well as a microchip for identification. A fecal sample was also collected and a general examination of the ears, eyes, and mouth was performed.

Leeloo was born at the Oklahoma City Zoo in 2011 and arrived at Zoo Miami in December 2013. The cub’s 12-year-old father, “Berani,” was born at the San Francisco Zoo and arrived at Zoo Miami in August 2013. Though the cub has made it through the most critical time in her life and appears to be developing well, she will remain in seclusion with her mother to ensure they are well established before making her public debut.

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There are only 72 Sumatran tigers living in U.S. zoos and there are believed to be less than 500 left in the wild. These regal animals are found in forested areas on the island of Sumatra in Indonesia. Their biggest threats are poaching and habitat loss due to palm oil plantations.

HElp NamE our Cub & SavE TigErs! There is currently an ongoing naming contest for our adorable cub as part of a fundraising effort in support of the Species Survival Plan’s “Tiger Conservation Campaign,” which supports anti-poaching efforts of the Malayan tiger and human-tiger conflict mitigation in Sumatra.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO 11

Adventures IN LEARNING ZOO TO YOU! VIRTUAL OUTREACHES Open to all ages Zoom with Zoo Miami! These programs are designed to bring the fun of the zoo to your kids groups, camps, libraries, or other organizations! Kids will enjoy an interactive 30-minute educational experience with one of our knowledgeable educators. Sessions include fun activities through Zoom and one recorded animal encounter.

AVAILABLE TOPICS INCLUDE: Sensational Senses: Explore the 5 senses in the world of wildlife Creature Feature: Learn about adaptations and how they help animals survive in their habitats Animal Jeopardy: Test your knowledge of animals and explore what Zoo Miami does for conservation Story of the Florida Panther: Learn about this silent predator in Florida that almost went extinct

Each program is $50 with a max of 50 participants (including adults and children).

Payment is due 7 days prior to program date.

BOOK NOW

THIS PROGRAM IS MADE POSSIBLE BY:

Join the Conservation Teen Scientists!

The Conservation Teen Scientist program (CTS) is an opportunity for 9th-12th graders to join the zoo team to further develop practical life skills and increase their knowledge in environmental sciences. Teens interpret at exhibits, assist with customer service and events as well as have the opportunity to network with experts in their field, go on field trips, receive community service hours, and animal handling training with ambassador animals after 1 year of participation.

Applications due April 30, 2021

CLICK HERE TO APPLY 12

Sponsored by Peacock Foundation, Inc., Anthony R. Abraham Foundation, and The Wildflower Foundation, Inc.

Keeper Corner REMEMBERING

Pongo

GIRAFFE KISSES LEAVE A LASTING IMPRESSION

By Rob Lara On January 4, 2021 we sadly said goodbye to “Pongo,” a male giraffe who was one month shy of his 12th birthday. Pongo was a gentle giant who was often first to greet his care team every morning.

For those that cared for him directly, Pongo’s “kisses” were among their favorite memories, as they made him unique compared to all of Zoo Miami’s other giraffes.

Madison Chamizo worked with Pongo as an intern and is now an animal care specialist. “He was always known to give kisses while training and some of my best memories are whenever I helped assist with training, he would swoop his head down to mine and give me a big lick on my face,” she said.

According to Tabitha Miller, a giraffe kiss “sometimes began with a nice deep breath in your ear just to startle you before his tongue would wrap halfway around your face. The more I would squeal when he’d catch me, the more likely he was to try again.”

Mike Smith added that Pongo “also had a very good-looking face and was our tallest giraffe. It is hard to explain, but he was just handsome.”

cared for him,” said Tabitha. “There aren’t proper words to convey how sweet and gentle and absolutely lovely he was.

I am extremely sad that I don’t get to see his sweet face every day anymore, but I am extremely grateful that I was lucky enough to care for him in his time here.”

Yeily Flores, a regular member of the team facilitating giraffe feedings said “he helped us enforce the rules, because the second any guest broke a rule, he showed them why they should’ve followed them to begin with. In fact, every time we saw him strolling his way to the feeding station, we’d say, “here comes Pongo!” From sneaking up on people when they turned their backs away from him, to constantly pushing the other giraffes to the side because he wanted all the food to himself! He was even known for licking guests faces if they got too close. His cheeky and playful personality, or what I would like to call “mischievous,” made him one of my favorite giraffes.”

All of these thoughts were difficult to share and some came through many tears. Pongo was special to so many. He is greatly missed and will always be held in the ‘highest’ esteem.

“He was always a calming presence for his herd and his group of keepers that

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Welcome Our New Zoo Director

We are proud and excited to announce the appointment of our new Director of Zoo Miami, William Elgar.

Mr. Elgar brings with him exceptional leadership qualities and experience and is a reputable member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). He has over 20 years of experience in zoo animal science and care, park operations, management, marketing, and guest experience. Most recently, he served as the Director of Zoological Operations for the Georgia Aquarium, where he managed the animal operations staff, budget, and exhibits. Prior to that, he acquired valuable experience serving as a zookeeper and animal enrichment specialist, earning him management-level positions at various zoos.

In addition to his impressive professional accomplishments, Mr. Elgar holds a degree in biology from Kingston University in Kingston-Upon-Thames, England and a graduate diploma in management from Anglia Ruskin University in Coventry, England.

“We look forward to a strong working relationship with Will, in being partners in support of the Zoo’s mission and in championing wildlife conservation particularly with the new Animal Hospital,” said Bill Moore, President and CEO of Zoo Miami Foundation.

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Wild Bunch is a group of like-minded young professionals dedicated to championing wildlife conservation and bringing community awareness to the mission of Zoo Miami. Join our committee of up-and-coming community leaders and receive special access to networkers, exclusive volunteer opportunities, unique animal encounters, priority access to Zoo Miami events, adventures and more! Help Wild Bunch make an impact!

JOIN TODAY

Zoo Miami Foundation’s Premier Membership is an elite Donor Club that provides you, your family and friends unique animal experiences, Zoo Miami in-park perks and more! Your support enhances aspects of animal care, wildlife conservation and learning experiences, engaging the community and forging an amazing connection to the more than 3,000 animal species from all over the world that reside at Zoo Miami.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER 15

Grilled Chicken and Citrus Veggie Pasta Salad Servings per recipe: 4

Ingredients: 6 oz white mushrooms, sliced 4 chicken breasts

2 oz extra virgin olive oil 0.5 oz fresh parsley

0.5 lbs bow-tie pasta

1 oz grated parmesan cheese

1 lemon

½ tsp ground coriander

6 oz asparagus

½ tsp ground ginger

6 oz cauliflower florets

Red pepper flakes

6 oz zucchini 2 oz green onions 4 oz low-fat Caesar dressing ¼ tsp black pepper ¼ tsp salt 0.5 oz organic all-purpose seasoning

Instructions: 1. Season chicken cutlets with the organic seasoning and a quarter of the oil. Set aside and let sit for a while.

2. Rinse all vegetables under cold running water. Pat dry with paper towel and set aside. Meanwhile, grill chicken breast and place in oven for 12 to 15 minutes. Set aside.

3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Once pasta has been cooked to desired texture, drain into a colander and run under cold running water until cool. Drain all water and toss pasta with a quarter of the oil.

4. Cut the lemon with rind and all into thin half moon slices. Cut the zucchini into ¼ inch half moon slices.

Cut cauliflower florets into ¼ inch slices. Cut asparagus on a bias into ¼ inch slices. Toss the vegetables together with the rest of the oil, ground coriander, and ground ginger. Place the seasoned vegetable mixture on a sheet pan and roast in the oven for 10 minutes at 400 degrees.

5. Once vegetables are cooked, slice the chicken breast or cut into chunks. Chop the parsley and slice the green onions.

6. Toss pasta, roasted vegetable mixture, dressing, parsley, green onion, salt, and pepper together.

Cut chicken cutlets into slices on a bias.

7. To serve, place about 10 oz of pasta salad on a plate, place on sliced chicken cutlet on top, sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top and serve.

2 2 0 2 N I G COMIN 25

TH

RAISE D N U F L A ANNU

R

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With profound sadness, Zoo Miami announced the passing of “Toshi” the black rhino on January 15, 2021.

At 44 years old, he was believed to be the oldest Eastern black rhino in North America, the second oldest in the world, and one of the most beloved animals in the history of Zoo Miami.

Unfortunately, with that advanced age came a variety of ailments until eventually, the difficult decision was made to euthanize him.

Toshi was born in Hiroshima, Japan in 1977 and arrived at Zoo Miami (then Miami Metrozoo) in April 1983 after an overseas journey by ship.

In the decades that followed, he was an excellent and inspiring ambassador to the zoo. He met countless guests as part of special behindthe-scenes tours and left an immeasurable hole in the hearts of all who loved him.

Toshi the Black Rhino 1977 – 2021

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Black Rhino Born at Zoo Miami!

Just a little over a month after we mourned the passing of Toshi the black rhino, we welcomed a calf of the very same species. On February 24, 2021, an endangered male black rhino was born to 21-year-old mother “Circe.” The proximity of these events, life and death, serve as a reminder of the often bittersweet nature of the circle of life.

Circe and her beautiful calf have mostly been kept sheltered off exhibit so that they can properly bond without external stress. She has been a very protective mother and the calf has been nursing regularly while growing rapidly! This is the fourth baby for Circe, who was born at Riverbanks Zoo in South Carolina and came to Zoo Miami via a breeding loan with the Los Angeles Zoo. The calf’s father is “Eddie,” a 21-year-old rhino born at the Cincinnati Zoo who arrived at Zoo Miami in 2006 via Busch Gardens in Tampa. He has sired three offspring – all with Circe.

Mother and calf are being slowly introduced to the public by spending short amounts of time on exhibit, with the amount of time being extended daily as the calf becomes more secure in his new environment.

Zoo Miami has had an impressive 13 successful black rhino births under human care, making us one of the nation’s most successful zoos in maintaining and reproducing this highly endangered species.

In the wild, black rhinos now number less than 5,000. They have been poached for their horns, which is falsely believed by some cultures to possess medicinal qualities and is used by others for dagger handles as a symbol of status.

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We would like to recognize and thank those who contributed to Zoo Miami Foundation between December 19, 2020 and March 19, 2021.

Your generosity helps us fulfill our mission of wildlife education and conservation, and we are truly grateful for your support.* INDIVIDUALS $25,000 + Ana VeigaMilton and Cecil Milton

$10,000 - $24,999 Shelley B. Daniel-Rutherford & J. Larry Rutherford Libby and Jack Madden Marcy and Mark Smith

$5,000 - $9,999 Alan and M. Ivette Atkinson

$2,500 - $4,999 Genevieve Simon Eric D. Gleit

$1,000 - $2,499 Sandra M. and Herbert E. Allenson D. Diane Dickhut Linda and Ira Fiebert The Forte Family Russell Fradin Robert C. Hibner Michelle and Eduardo Montalvo David J. Morris Chris Palia Martin E. Segal, LL.B., J.D. Dina Simone Patrick Wilson Robert Zinkil

$500 - $999 Lisa and Todd Abbott Spencer Abrams Arturo Luis Alamo Alex Beatty Philip Bottrell Jamila Chong Gregory C. Diamond Amanda and Chad Douglas Elizabeth A. Hale and Ryan W. Esch Thomas W. Essig, Jr. Matthew Evert Dana Fales Thomas Fitzpatrick The Forte Family Carol R. Green Michael J. Harder Adam Harter David A. Horne Mathias W. Hukkelhoven, Ph.D.

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Adam Jackson Christopher Martinson Jill and William Moore Sara and Ivan Mladenovic Peter Mosheim Mark Nivinskus Paul J. Peters Theresa J. Pinto and Stephen Woodey Arman R. Pradhan Julia Rivin Zelenger Cynthia K. Roche Michael A. Simkowitz, Ph.D. Gary P. Simon, Esq. Kathleen and Don Sokolik Angelica P. Stanley Lisa and Franz Victoria Bill Wyman

$100 - $499 Nick Ackley Peter P. Afonso Nick Allen Isaac J. Allen Sandra M. and Herbert E. Allenson Carlos A. Alvarez Maria Gabriele Ambs John Anderson Maria J. Arbiol Scott A. Backus Thomas Barajas Christopher K. Bartels Brittnie R. Bassant Raymond Roger Karen and Jon Beck Dan Beisner Jordan Wilson Jason Beltz Miguel Benavides Sylvia Betancourt Donald Bewick Marisa Bezjian, DVM Sandi Bisceglia Barbara and Samuel Blank Vivian Bonet-Rubio Gary Boutwell, II Mary and Frederick Brenner Matthew Brick Jordan Brock Marijke E. Browning Nathan Buffaloe Laura S. Buratt Debra and Carl Burch

Salma Bustamante Heidi Buswell Jacqueline Caltagirone Nicholas Camacho Michael Cantave Beth and Roger Carlton Ryan J. Carr Karen and Drew Cashmere Marcel Castro Yasnay Chacon Jacob Chirlin Carole J. Cholasta Emily Christopher Derek Cipiti Donna Jean Clark Michelle and Hy Cohen David M. Cohn, M.D. Raul Concepcion Jack Conness Joanna C. Cook Ryan Cortes Daniela Coto Jon M. Crosbie, D.O. Ben Cunningham Colin Curran Chase Dalu Capt. Ed Davidson Kezia and Jeffrey Davis Andrew Dayton Florence and Bruce De Napoli Maria Delgado Joseph and Amanda Deo Jacky Donate and Jonathan Horowitz Douglas Drifmeyer Jenna Dube James Dunfee Susan Dunning Matt Eads Joshua Eernise Sean Ellen Mary Elliot Matthew F. Enslein, Esq. Edith Escalona Manuel Falcon and Elizabeth Cordero Carol L. Farber Michael J. Fasko Daniela Figuerola Carol Ann Fisher Marguerite Fitzgerald Greg Freebold David Fuehne Jason T. Fundora

Omar E. Garcia Aaron Gholston Richard R. Glass Alexander M. Glomb JoAnn A. Goldberger Dyana Gonzalez Daniel A. Gonzalez Amy L. Goode Jonah Goodhart Logan Goodman Heather Goodman Jason Goodspeed Andrew S. Gordon Mark Graban Mark Graban John L. Grady Chris Gunderman David Haas Michelle and Brock Haast Christopher Halbach Aaron Hancock Drew G. Hennemuth Del Henry Rita K. and William Hernandez Mary and Glenn Herrick Robert C. Hibner Jason S. Hilfiker The Hinton Family Nate Hoffman Nancy Holly Phillip Hook Gerry E. Huffman Damanbir Hundal Daniel W. Husband Scott Isaak Maria Gabriela Izaguirre Lizbeth and Michael Jacobs Dillon Jacobs Cynthia Jacobson Reid Johnson Alvin B. Johnson Kenneth L. Jordan Paul Jordan John Juelich Tracy Jugenheimer Mary and Steven Kanner Laurie and Keith Keister Tom Keital Jordan and Matthew Kever Warren G. King Derek Kiss Hironori Kodama Jason F. Koester

Zsofia Kordovan Derrick Krause Sam Kravitz Christopher Kuhlkin Jon Kunin Erika Lara Courtney and Jeremy Larkin Edward P. Larkin Greg Lawson, Jr. Michelle Lefcourt Stephanie V. Leiva Alexander G. Leon George L. Leser Yvonne M. Leung Ben Levy Max Lichy Scott Lindquist David Lisle Kevin Lockman Ana Lopez Mark A. Lopez Mike Loudder John Loy Sean Lundquist Matthew Marsicano Matthew C. Martin Alex Mas Lisa and Jay Massirman Charlie Mays Nicholas McCoy Nicholas E. McGuire Brian McNulty Christopher P. Meckley Gregory Medow Russell Michelson Matthew Miller Alec Milton Howard Mintz Lisa Moehn Sean Moffa Virginia Mojica Blair Moore Jason Morgan Jennifer Mori Sean O. Moseley Dusty Moses Jonathan Moskow Terry J. Mraz James T. Murphy Alma R. Muse and John B. Enberg Gwen Myers, DVM Patricia Myers Uday Nandipati Tiffany Nealon Brett Orso Ashley Ostashev Anthony Parrott

Angeli and Nitun Patel Rusalka de la Campa and Samuel Patmore Jeremy Pawelkiewicz Edith Pearson Brian Pessin Jose Pinero Juan L. Plata Christopher W. Poll Philip Porter Suellen E. Powell Stephen Price Heath Pruitt Carlos Quinones Alexisse J. Ranney Sue and Alan Rapperport Carter E. Rawlings Carolyn Read Kevin M. Reed Eric S. Regan Betty and Eliot Rifkin Mark J. Robak Alec Robbins Michelle and William Roberson Lisa Roberts Doug Roberts Wilna Rodriguez and Brian Pla Jacqueline M. Rodriguez Michael Roenigk Deborah and David Rogero Beverly R. Rosenberg Kevin D. Rudy Diana Rydbeck Iliana Saavedra Eric P. Salzman Christopher Sanchez Milaris and Raphael Sanchez Mary L. Sandford Hector and Penelope Santiago David W. Saum Lonnie H. Scheinblum Kathie Schlesinger Samantha Mack and Scott Schoenleber Franz Scholten Samantha Schwartz Steven P. Shanley, Ph.D. Sheila and Ira Shapiro Gerald Shaughnessy Carmela and Jay Siegel Morgana and Margarito Sierra Sonia and Luis Silva Sonia and Luis Silva Heather Siskind Shelley Slapion-Foote and Franklin H. Foote Margarita Smith

Todd A. Smith Dorothy Snyder Atul Sofat Larry Stanek Chris Stansbury Ronald K. Stayton Kendra and Allen Stephens James S. Stewart Gene Stice John S. Stoilov Nathan T. Sweeney Joshua W. Thompson Randall Tillim Stacy Tipton Kelly Todd Shandon Tonry Travis Topa Michelle Torbert Stephen Tracy Mary Vasile Richard Vattimo Lorgia Velasquez Alejandro L. Veloz Mary and Gabriel Vidal Norman and Julie Waas Tim Walsh William Weaver Jori and Jed Weaver Paola and Charles Weber John Weitgenant Maurya and Bill Wendling Melissa and David Wetzel Ward B. Whitten Christine M. Wilson Jon Wilson Nicholas Wilson Lisa Bragunier Wilson Joshua Wolf Howard and Pamela Wolofsky Stephanie Woolley-Larrea William H. Woolston, Esq. Alexandra Yurkosky Jeremy Zar Zachary Zitko Marilyn Zuniga, O.D. Gail and John Zvijac

CORPORATE PARTNERS $10,000 + Florida Power & Light Main Street Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics, LLC Mercedes-Benz of Cutler Bay

$5,000 - $9,999 Entercom Miami | South Florida

$1,000 - $2,499 Allied Global Marketing Whole Foods Market, L.P.

$500 - $999 Network for Good United Way of Greater Atlanta

$100 - $499 Devine Investments, LLC Network for Good The Benevity Community Impact Fund

FOUNDATION PARTNERS $10,000 + “Do Unto Others” Trust, Inc. Anthony R. Abraham Foundation The Clinton Family Fund Todd A. Stuart Foundation

$5,000 - $9,999 The Tonkinson Foundation

$2,500 - $4,499 D. Richard Mead Charitable Foundation Sara H. Woodruff Foundation

$1,000 - $2,499 Barbara A. Munford Irrevocable Trust Fanny & Stephen Rosenak Foundation Johnson & Johnson Foundation Schwab Charitable Fund Susan J. Paul Estate

$500 - $999 Sofia’s Hope, Inc.

$100 - $499 AmazonSmile Foundation AMEN Muniz Charitable Fund

GOVERNMENT PARTNERS $10,000 + Florida Division of Cultural Affairs

*We are deeply grateful to our donors for their support. If your name has been accidentally omitted or listed incorrectly, please contact the Development department at 305-255-5551.

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North American Otter Pups Born at Zoo Miami!

On February 5, 2021, a three-year-old North American river otter named “Zinnia” gave birth to three pups at Zoo Miami’s Florida: Mission Everglades exhibit! This birth is particularly special as it’s not only Zinnia’s first, but it’s the first birth of this species at Zoo Miami.

After a pregnancy of about two months, the pups – weighing between 136 and 148 grams – were born in a secluded den, where all initial indications shows that they were being well cared for by their mother. After about a month, the pups received their first official neonatal exam, where they were identified as two males and one female. They were also weighed again, had their oral cavities examined, hearts listened to, temperatures taken, and abdomens palpated for any skin abnormalities or abrasions. Already weighing more than quadruple their birth weights, the pups seems to be in excellent health!

Zinnia arrived at Zoo Miami in 2019 from the Roger Williams Park Zoo in Rhode Island, where she was born. The pups’ father is a five-year-old named “Edison” who arrived at Zoo Miami in October 2016 after being rescued as an orphan and hand-raised by a group called Wild Florida.

North American river otters are extremely active and playful animals that are found in a variety of freshwater habitats throughout much of the U.S. and Canada. Though their populations were threatened decades ago mainly due to trapping for the fur trade, their biggest threat today is due to habitat loss and pollution.

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Endangered Somali Wild Ass Born at Zoo Miami Around sunrise on March 12, 2021, Zoo Miami celebrated the birth of a critically endangered Somali wild ass - the ninth of this species to be born at our zoo! The foal and its mother, a mare named “Lisha,” are now on exhibit where the baby is adapting well.

Somali wild asses are among the world’s most critically endangered equids with less than 1,000 believed to still exist in the wild. It is the last remaining ancestor of the modern donkey. Found in the rocks deserts in Eastern Africa, they are the smallest of the wild equids.

Zoo Miami began exhibiting the Somali wild ass in 2011 and is part of the Species Survival Plan (SSP), a carefully planned captive breeding program designed to maintain healthy populations of these extremely rare animals for generations to come.

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$

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x pl u s ta o n pe r pe rs

R E T N U O C N E G N I H T E M O S L A I C SPE

Enjoy a two-hour golf cart tour amongst lushly landscaped public walkways with your own personal tour guide! As a VIP, your guide will give you the inside scoop on our incredible animals. This tour includes a certificate for food and drink.

Book your VIP experience today at: zoomiami.org/special-tours

TIMES: 10:30am - 12:30pm 1:30pm - 3:30pm

Restrictions: Minimum of two guests are required. One paying participant must be at least 18 years old.

Virtual Greetings from the Zoo

Koalas, elephants, and giraffes… oh my! Have your favorite Zoo Miami animal make your next special occasion a WILD one! Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just because; our personalized pre-recorded virtual greetings will be sure to have that special someone talking about it for years to come! We’ll create a 20-second personalized greeting, just for you!

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE