Keepin' it Wild July - September 2023

July - September 2023

Keepin’ it Wild !

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:

- Marabou Storks Hatch at the Zoo

- Summer Deals & Events

- Sea Turtle Updates

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: Jose Felix Diaz

Chair-Elect: Alan Atkinson

Treasurer: Alexander Binelo

Secretary: Brittnie Bassant

Past Chair: Eric Eikenberg

Alan Atkinson

Mary Barley

Brittnie Bassant

Jason Bell

Alexander Binelo

Javi Borges

James A. Carenza

Mayor Daniella Levine Cava

John V. Chibbaro

Jose Felix Diaz, Esq

Diane Dickhut

Eric Eikenberg

Will Elgar

Armando Fernandez

Ricardo Garbati

Victor H. Herrera

Philip Kushlan

George Leser

Emeriti Directors

Rodney L. Barreto

Vincent L. Berkeley

Jennifer Boin Getz

Roger M. Carlton

Harlan S. Chiron, MD

Ambassador Sue M. Cobb

Linda Coll

William J. Gallwey, III, Esq.

Robert W. Hudson

Sherrill W. Hudson

Bernard Klepach

President/CEO: José Romano

Zoo Director: William Elgar

Zoo Admission Hours: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily

Last ticket sold at 4 p.m.

Editor: Rashielle Clarke

Contributors:

LETTER FROM THE CEO Dear Friends,

Daniel Diaz Leyva

Daniel J. Licciardi

Sharon MacIvor-DeMaria, DVM

Kathy McDonald

William W. Moore

Maria I. Nardi

Marc A. Osheroff

Samantha Pencar

Ann Pope

Martha H. Rabbitt

Jose C. Romano

Joseph R. Salzverg

Daniel V. Sanchez

Eduardo

M. Soto

Merrett R. Stierheim

Peter Vandenberg, Jr.

Fred Voccola

Christopher Walters

David Konfino

James A. Kushlan, Ph.D.

John J. Lowell

Manny J. Rodriguez, PE

Edward R. Soto

Eric J. Stephens

Lawrence O. Turner, Jr.

Diana Udel

Ana VeigaMilton, Esq.

Andrew H. Weinstein, Esq.

It’s hard to believe I have already completed my first quarter as the new CEO of Zoo Miami Foundation. These last few months have felt like a “homecoming” of sorts for me. Having spent two years on the Zoo Miami Marketing Committee, which led to a ten-year term on the Board of Directors (two of which I served as Chair), I find myself very much aligned with the Zoo Miami staff and mission.

The summer is already off to an exciting start here at Zoo Miami. As always, while school is out, our walkways are filled with young adventurers enjoying their Zoo Camp experience and this year, we are proud to have expanded our camp program to include younger children. Kids ranging from ages three to 15 are connecting with wildlife and nature through hands-on educational activities and animal encounters that are sure to inspire them to become conservationists in their own ways. Our Learning Experiences team continues to do incredible work inside the zoo and out. We look forward to increasing their resources to be able to conduct even more outreach programs, bringing the zoo closer to groups throughout the community.

Of course, we are also thrilled to see families flocking to Zoo Miami, taking advantage of the popular Summer Savings Pass and discounted $15 Monday admission, and enjoying evening strolls through the park during Zoo Miami: After Hours. Seeing friends and families splash around in our playgrounds, smile at our playful river otters, and marvel as they experience an up-close animal encounter is a true joy, knowing that they are forming memories that will last a lifetime.

Cindy Castelblanco, Alexandra Guevara, Marie Hernandez, Yvette Jones, Jamie Lassonde, Ron Magill, Zazu Mao, Jose Romano, Carlos Simoes, and Ron Stayton

Layout & Design: Photography: Parrot Fish Studio Ron Magill

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

Currently, Zoo Miami and Zoo Miami Foundation are in the midst of a thorough strategic planning process with Canopy Strategic Partners to forge the best path forward, as we look to improve and build upon the zoo experience you all know and love. With a ZMF Board Retreat coming up this August, I am truly enthusiastic about the next phase of progress for Zoo Miami.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the Zoo Miami and ZMF team for welcoming me into my new role. Their dedication and passion fills me with confidence and gratitude for the opportunity. To our donors, members, volunteers, and partners – thank you for your continued support! We wish you all a summer to remember.

José Romano ZMF President/CEO

sea turtle updates

Green sea turtle release

On March 29th, Zoo Miami’s Animal Health team successfully released a juvenile green sea turtle back to the wild from Bill Baggs State Park on Key Biscayne. The turtle was brought to Zoo Miami’s Sea Turtle Hospital on March 13th by an FWC officer after being hooked by a recreational fisherman. Upon arrival at the hospital, the hook was removed by Zoo Miami Associate Veterinarian Dr. Marisa Bezjian. Following closer examination, it was found to have two additional hooks lodged in its esophagus, which were also removed. The turtle made a full recovery, which allowed for a successful release!

loggerhead CT Scan

On Friday, May 12th, a loggerhead sea turtle undergoing care at Zoo Miami’s Sea Turtle Hospital was taken to advanced veterinary care specialists in Davie, FL, for a CT scan. The turtle had been brought to Zoo Miami on April 27th after being found entangled in a buoy line at the Deering Estate, suffering from tumors caused by the fibropapilloma virus. The severity of these tumors can vary, with some causing external growths while others affect vital organs and result in death.

The loggerhead turtle weighs in at over 100 pounds and is estimated to be 15-20 years old. The transport and care were overseen by Zoo Miami Associate Veterinarian Dr. Marisa Bezjian, with assistance from Animal Health Specialist Julie Heyde. Dr. Luis Macho, a veterinary internist, conducted the scan and generously provided his time, staff, and facility to support the treatment of this endangered turtle. Initial CT scan results indicate potential internal organ involvement, which could lead to a grim prognosis. The Animal Health Team will evaluate the detailed test results to determine the best course of action going forward.

ANimaL wellness exam

African Painted Dogs

On Friday, June 2nd, two of Zoo Miami’s endangered African painted dogs were immobilized and underwent general health exams that included blood collection, radiographs, ultrasound exams and dental cleanings. The individuals examined were a three-year-old female named “Uzuri” and a six-year-old female named “Little Foot.” Little Foot also received a rabies vaccination that was due.

In addition to these general examinations, intradermal skin testing was done on both dogs to help determine any allergies they may have. The testing was done by Veterinary Dermatologist Dr. Melanie Hnot, who volunteers her time to Zoo Miami whenever we are in need of a skin specialist.

Though both dogs appeared to be in good health, the dental examinations did reveal some damaged teeth that will require further attention by a veterinary dentist in the near future.

Ignite your child’s imagination with our captivating summer camp programs at the zoo, designed for age groups ranging from 3 to 15.

SUMMER CAMP

Ages 5 - 12

Unleash your child’s wild side and conquer the boredom of school break by joining us at the zoo this summer!

Available Sessions:

July 10 – 14

July 17 – 21

July 24 – 28

July 31 – August 4

August 7 - 9

Fees vary by session.

REGISTER NOW! CLICK HERE

TEEN CAREERS CAMP

Embark on a thrilling summer escapade at the zoo and let your teen’s wild spirit roam free as they delve into exciting adventures and create unforgettable memories!

Ages 13 – 15 ONLY

Available Sessions:

July 10 – 14

July 24 – 28

CAMP LiTTLE CRiTTERS

Ages 3 & 4

Ignite the imagination of your little critters and embark on an educational summer adventure at the Zoo!

Available Sessions:

July 17 – 21

July 31 – August 4

Fees vary by session.

REGISTER NOW! CLICK HERE

Fees: $280/ child for Zoo members; $350/ child for non-members

REGISTER NOW! CLICK HERE

Open to all ages

Want to play a hands-on role in providing our animals with mental and physical health stimulation? Drop by the Fun Factory to learn all about animal enrichment and assist us in building something fun for our animal residents. This one-of-a-kind exhibit is included with Zoo Miami admission.

Zoo To YoU!

Whether you’re part of a school or community group, our educators can bring a taste of the zoo to you with educational animal and conservation presentations. We have both in-person and virtual offerings!

Topics include:

“Sensational Senses” for Grades K-1

“Astonishing Adaptations” for Grades 1-5

“Creature Feature” for Grades K-8

“Species Profile” for Grades 6-12

“Science of Life” for Grades 1-12

Fees: : $250 for in-person sessions; $130 for virtual sessions; Additional fees apply for new lesson creation

Employment

Full-Time

Implement informal education programs, located both on and off Zoo Miami grounds, for various audiences.

Conservation

Community

What’s in ?

In addition to housing hundreds of species of wildlife, Zoo Miami is also home to 1,000 species of trees, palms, and other plants! As the only sub-tropical zoo in the continental U.S., our climate allows for lush and tropical landscapes and gardens across our 750 acres. See what’s in bloom this season at Zoo Miami and discover something new on your next visit!

Common Name: The Pink Shower Tree

Botanical Name: Cassia Bakeriana

Located in the Children’s Zoo

Common Name: The Frangipani Tree

Botanical Name: Plumeria

Located in the Africa walkway

Common Name: Royal Poinciana

Botanical Name: Delonix Regia

Located in the Oasis Grille playground

Common Name: Panama Rose

Botanical Name: Rondeletia

Located on various Zoo walkways

EXHIBIT UPDATES

After months of renovations and upgrades, Zoo Miami’s black rhino barn and habitat has been reopened and has welcomed back its first black rhino! On May 17th, “Eddie,” a 23-year-old male, was given access to his new yard for the first time. One of the most significant changes to the habitat is the conversion of the old pools into clay wallows. Eddie was given overnight access and was covered in clay by the morning after enjoying his new wallow! The exhibit is now open for the public to visit this critically endangered pachyderm.

Our three North American river otter pups, born on February 6, 2023, officially made their exhibit debut on April 25! The litter was born to five-year-old mom "Zinnia" in the Florida: Mission Everglades exhibit at Zoo Miami. Since then, Zinnia and her pups (one female and two males) remained isolated behind the scenes to ensure that they had time to bond and grow with minimal disturbances. Now, the otters can all be seen exploring their habitat!

Marabou Storks Hatch AT ZOO MIAMI

On May 11th & 12th, Zoo Miami welcomed two healthy Marabou stork chicks! They are successfully being raised by their experienced parents, a 31-year-old father and 20-year-old mother. This parenting pair has successfully raised a single chick in 2021 and another in 2022.

Some polls have given the marabou stork the distinguished status of being recognized as the “ugliest bird in the world” but we think they could be considered so ugly that they’re actually cute! According to African legend, God ran out of animal parts while producing the creatures of Africa and decided to use the leftover bird parts to create the marabou stork.

The marabou stork is the largest flying stork in the world and is commonly found throughout subSaharan Africa. It is primarily a scavenger, through it is also known for feeding on smaller reptiles, eggs, and the chicks of other birds. It is often referred to as the “Undertaker bird,” not so much for its habit of feeding on the dead, but more so for its physical resemblance to the “grim reaper” hunched over while wearing a dark cloak with a bald head and long beak!

In addition to their unattractive habit of feeding on rotting carcasses, they also will defecate on their own legs, depending on the subsequent evaporation to help keep them cool. Having said all of this, it is important to remember that even with all of the associated repulsiveness, these massive birds play a critical role in preventing the spread of disease and helping to keep the world a cleaner place for the rest of us!

EXPERIENCE A HIGH ENERGY DOG SHOW! N OW - AUG 13, 2023

Enjoy this educational dog show featuring rescue dogs, trick dogs, frisbee dogs and scent detection demonstrations. Every show is scripted, choreographed to music, and professionally presented while delivering a compelling message on how dogs assist in conservation efforts to protect wildlife.

LOCATION:

Zoo Miami Amphitheater

SHOWTIMES:

Mondays: 12 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Tuesdays and Wednesdays: CLOSED

Thursdays: 12 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Fridays: 12 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Saturdays: 12 p.m., 3 p.m., and 6 p.m.

Sundays: 12 p.m. and 3 p.m.

MEET THE SHOW DOGS

NERDY VALOR

At 10 years old, this male mixed breed is the senior of the group and was adopted out of Iowa. His specialty is running through the barrel and participating in the “conga line."

7-year-old female shepherd mix that was adopted out of California. Her specialty is a variety of Frisbee work as well as occasionally joining the "conga line."

RIPPER SWIFFER

1 year old female Australian Shepherd mix who was adopted in Missouri. Her specialty is scent identification and location and her main role in the show is locating hidden scents that are carefully placed by an audience volunteer.

2-year-old male mix breed that was adopted out of Texas. His specialty is double-dutch jump roping and doing his signature handstand walk to close out the show.

RENDEZVOUS WHITTAKER JONES

2 year old male shepherd mix that was adopted out of Maryland. His specialty is a variety of frisbee work as well as joining the “conga line."

4-year-old female black lab that was rescued out of a Maryland shelter. Her specialty is balancing herself on top of the barrel while she walks it across the stage as well as leading the “conga line."

CHEESE BILLY BOB THORNTON

5-year-old female shepherd mix that was adopted out of Indiana. Her specialty is running the “Prey Drive Challenge” obstacle course in a timed competition.

PETS ARE NOT ALLOWED INSIDE THE ZOO. The trainers and trained dogs in this show have been approved by our animal care, health, and welfare teams and follow protocols that support the health of our animals and staff. Show is included with Zoo admission.

5-year-old female shepherd mix that was rescued from a shelter in Tennessee. Her specialty is running the “Prey Drive Challenge” obstacle course, usually challenging “Cheese,” for the best time.

DONOR SPOTLIGHT: Cynthia Knight

As we prowl toward the groundbreaking of the new Sumatran tiger experience at Zoo Miami, we celebrate the extraordinary generosity and unwavering dedication of Mrs. Cynthia Knight, an individual who has forever left her mark on Zoo Miami and, most recently, on the campaign to build a new tiger habitat.

We are truly thankful to Mrs. Knight for entrusting us with her support for more than three decades, and for reminding us of the profound impact that one person can have when driven by a passion for conservation and a deep love for the majestic creatures that roam our planet.

The new Sumatran tiger experience will be one of the highlights for all visitors. With a major focus on protecting these majestic creatures from going extinct in the wild, it will immerse visitors through an up-close encounter that will leave everyone in awe. It will be a space where families, students, and wildlife enthusiasts alike can witness firsthand the beauty and power of these critically endangered creatures, fostering a deep understanding of the importance of their preservation. We are most grateful to Mrs. Knight and all our champions who have made an early and impactful philanthropic commitment toward this most highly anticipated zoo project.

Cynthia Knight presented with an award.

(L to R): Cynthia Knight, Bill Moore, ZMF Past President & CEO; Will Elgar, Zoo Miami Director; Jose Felix Diaz, ZMF Chair

JOIN TODAY

AUGUST IS MAKE A WILL MONTH

MAKE WILDLIFE A PART OF YOUR LEGACY

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!

It’s always a great time to revisit your legacy plans to ensure your loved ones are taken care of. Zoo Miami Foundation (ZMF) has put together a few tools to help you protect your loved ones and plan your legacy on your terms:

• ZMF Personal Estate Planning Guide: This helpful booklet offers information about ways to make a lasting legacy and worksheets for you to thoughtfully organize and plan your estate.

• Life Legacy: Thanks to our partnership with Life Legacy, you may create your legal will for FREE in under 20 minutes.

You can even choose to make a legacy gift to Zoo Miami Foundation through your will or trust to benefit education and wildlife conservation efforts for years to come, just like our President & CEO Jose Romano.

“It is important to step back and invest in the things that are meaningful to you. Leaving a legacy at Zoo Miami of educating the public about conservation efforts right here in our backyard, in the state I love, while instilling a sense of responsibility in my children, has been an absolute blessing.” -

Jose Romano

Zoo Miami FoundatIon’s PrEmier Members

arE elIte-LEvel DOnors who experIence

Zoo Miami from an exclusive perspectIve!

Become a member whose support enhances animal care, wildlife conservation, and learning experiences while forging an amazing connection to the more than 2,500 animals that reside at Zoo Miami. Receive inside access to behind-the-scenes tours, private animal encounters, exclusive event invitations, programs, and more!

Your Membership Card gives you exclusive aCCess to Zoo Miami!

BECOME A MEMBER

INDIVIDUALS

$25,000 +

Robert Gross

Libby and Jack Madden

$10,000 - $24,999

Cynthia W. Knight

Pat and Chip Vandenberg and Lauren Manley

$5,000 - $9,999

Lynn L. Atkinson & David E. Drucker

Tai and Tom Mendoza

Sheila and Ira Shapiro

$1,000 - $4,999

Chelsey and Eric Bensen

Brian Blackman

Danielle A. Cohen Higgins and Mark B. Higgins

Richard P. Cole

The Forte Family

Lourdes E. Gomez and Marcelino Miyares, Ph.D.

Lorena and James Hartenstein

Laurie and Keith Keister

Michael Labinski and Joseph DeMasi

Mayor Daniella Levine Cava

Stacy and Kionne McGhee

Elaine Klein and Leonard C. Roberts

The Honorable Anthony Rodriguez

Dina L. Simone and Matthew L. Jacobson

Kathleen and Don Sokolik

Josh Weinstock

$500 - $999

Bernardo Babatz Alvarez

Karen and Drew Cashmere

Sandra and Kevin Davis

Therese and Jose Diaz

Kylie Donovan

Kelly and Kenneth Duvall

Sharon and Dennis Javer

Melanie Laurendine

Suzette and Humberto Lopez

Linda M. Parker

Francine and Herbert Tobin

$100 - $499

Diane and Ramon Bardelas

Daniel Beerhalter

Ellen and Daniel Berger

Alanna Brallier

Piotr Bzdyra

Clara E. Cano

Patrick Conti

Audra Cook

Amanda Cooper

Shelley B. Daniel Rutherford and J.

Larry Rutherford

Jonelle K. Dougery

Elizabeth Filion

Lori and Tim FitzPatrick

Anne and Jon Goldman

Salvatore Golino

Erin Green

Alexandria and Alexander Gutierrez

Jennifer Hernandez

Sarah Holaday

Melinda and David Iglesias

Dawn Jayma

Rebecca L. Knight

Arturo Lozano

Carla Maquiud-Alvarez

Dwight Mathusa

Natalie Muniz

Tina M. Nuccitelli

Tracy and Mark O’Connell

Brett Orso

Tracy Rein

Martha A. Rogers Haas

Jean A. Rose

Derek Rosenbaum

Alejandra Siaca

Julie and Gary Simon

Joshua Sydney-Smith

Laura Tapanes

Lynn Tupa

Natasha Villa-Livesay

Ward B. Whitten

CORPORATE PARTNERS

$25,000 +

Nashville Zoo, Inc.

$10,000 - $24,999

Florida Power & Light

$5,000 - $9,999

BCC Engineering

United Property Management, Inc.

$1,000 - $4,999

MBDO USA, LLP

Faena Hotel

Falcon Charter Bus

HITN

Nebraska Brand

Ocaquatics Management, Inc.

Sea Turtle Conservancy

West Flagler Associates

West Kendall Baptist Hospital

$500 - $999

Cutler Bay Solar Solutions

Facebook

Twin Cities Public Television, Inc.

United Way of Greater Atlanta

We would like to recognize and thank those who contributed to Zoo Miami Foundation between March 21,2023 -June 21, 2023. Your generosity helps us fulfill our mission of wildlife education and conservation, and we are truly grateful for your support.*

FOUNDATIONS

$25,000 +

The Batchelor Foundation, Inc.

$10,000 - $24,999

Fernandez Pave the Way Foundation

$5,000 - $9,999

The Allen Family Foundation

The Goldsmith Family Foundation

Lynwood Animal Charity

$1,000 - $4,999

Charities Aid Foundation of America

Key Biscayne Community Foundation

Westminster Barrington Foundation

$500 - $999

Alexander C. MacIntyre Charitable Trust

AmazonSmile Foundation Branches, Inc.

Key Biscayne Community Foundation

Lynwood Animal Charity

Sofia’s Hope, Inc.

The MEJOR Fund

GOVERNMENT PARTNERS

$25,000

Florida Division of Cultural Affairs

Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affair

*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.

ADOPT AN ANIMAL

Every adventure should have a souvenir to remember it by! Take home your favorite Zoo animal with a symbolic adoption. All Adopt an Animal Keeper Packages include a Certificate of Adoption, plush animal, fun facts, photo by Ron Magill, and more. Choose from seven adoptable animals, including sea turtles, otters, and African painted dogs.

SHOP ADOPT PACKAGES

BUY

A BRICK

Are you celebrating a special milestone or loved one this year? From anniversaries to graduations, you can commemorate those moments with a custom engraved brick at Zoo Miami. Your brick will line the Walkway of the Wild at the entrance of Florida: Mission Everglades.

SHOP BRICKS

Zoo Miami Members save on summer swimming lessons

Make sure your cubs are prepared for all their summer pool parties and beach days! Get $15 off a two-week Little Swimmers course all summer 2023. Valid at any of the five Little Swimmers locations with proof of a valid Zoo Miami Membership. For more info, visit www.littleswimmers.net

Meet us out at the ball game

Join us at the Miami Marlins vs. Philadelphia Phillies game on July 9, 2023 for Zoo Miami Day! Click here to purchase tickets to be seated in the Zoo Miami section at the game!

Honor World Rhino Day Back to School

Our beloved Eastern black rhino, Toshi, passed away in January 2021. As a way to honor his memory and place in Zoo Miami’s history, molds were created of his footprints!

Just in time for World Rhino Day on September 22, we will be sharing decorative copies of these special “footprints,” a beautiful and unique gift for wildlife lovers. Stay tuned for more info on their release!

When summer break comes to an end, the adventure doesn’t have to!

Keep the fun going with 15% off a Zoo Miami Membership using promo code BACK2SCHOOL, valid August 10 – 17, 2023. Renew your Membership or tell a friend to join in on the fun to make the most of your weekends.

Experience a WILD time on Saturday, October 7, 2023 at the 11th annual ZooRun benefiting the Zoo Miami Wildlife Conservation Fund. Transport yourself to the Amazon, Asia and Africa as runners (and walkers) of all ages dash their way through Zoo Miami for a Kids Dash, 5k and 10k. A virtual 5K option will remain available as well. Animal themed costumes are encouraged!