Keepin' it Wild October - December 2023

October - December 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:

- Welcoming Our New Cheetah Ambassador

- Endangered Gazelle Born at Zoo Miami

- Fall & Winter Events

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

Brittnie Bassant

Jason Bell

Alexander Binelo

Javi Borges

James A. Carenza

Mayor Daniella Levine Cava

John V. Chibbaro

Jose Felix Diaz, Esq

Eric Eikenberg

Will Elgar

Armando Fernandez

Ricardo Garbati

Victor H. Herrera

Philip Kushlan

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 C. Romano

Zoo Director: Will Elgar

Zoo Admission Hours: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily Last ticket sold at 4 p.m.

Editor: Rashielle Clarke

LETTER FROM THE CEO

Dear Friends,

As the year comes to an end, 2024 just over the horizon, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement for what I know the future will bring. October marks the beginning of a new fiscal year here at Zoo Miami Foundation (ZMF), and with fall in full swing, this time of the year always provides a rousing momentum that ushers us into our next chapter.

George Leser

Daniel Diaz Leyva

Sharon MacIvor-DeMaria DVM

Kathy McDonald

Maria I. Nardi

Marc A. Osheroff

Samantha Pencar

Martha H. Rabbitt

José C. Romano

Joseph R. Salzverg

Daniel V. Sanchez

Eduardo M. Soto

John Vidalin

Fred Voccola

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.

This past August, the ZMF Board of Directors held our first two-day retreat since 2018. More than 90% of our Board members gathered to review the Strategic Plan, including our vision, mission, and key commitments. These meetings are essential in helping our Board hone in on our organization’s purpose and determine what the center of the bullseye is. For us, that’s conservation, which is at the heart of everything we do. It’s present throughout the objectives in each of our key commitments: our team, our community, our guests, and our animals. In this spirit of conservation, I support the preservation of the critical habitat that is located in the proposed area for the Miami Wilds Waterpark. I am also in favor of the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners’ decision to defer the extension of the lease agreement for this land until the proper environmental and economic reviews are done as required by law. Our Board will be taking up this issue at our next Board Meeting in late October 2023.

A mission becomes a reality through both leaps and steps. In just a few days, our 11th Annual ZooRun will unleash thousands of runners and walkers along our walkways, all taking strides in support of the Zoo Miami Wildlife Conservation Fund. Traditions like the ZooRun provide wonderful opportunities to connect and engage with our community as they show up to show their support.

Contributors: Cindy Castelblanco, Alexandra Guevara, Jamie Lassonde, Ron Magill, Natalie Martinez, Jose Romano, Nicola Rousseau, 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.

Speaking of traditions, one of our most beloved events is back this Halloween season, inviting families to trick-or-treat right here at Zoo Miami. Every year, ZooBoo thrills our guests with costume contests, Halloween crafts, animal enrichment activities, and of course, lots of sustainably made candy. Throughout the fall and winter seasons, our campers are also getting into the spirit, with themed programs designed to amaze our future conservationists in our award-winning Zoo Camp. In the final few weeks of 2023, we’ll all come together to celebrate the holidays with our much-loved Zoo Lights and Sip & Stroll events.

We know that it is because of our mission and commitment to conservation that we receive such loyalty and generosity from our supporters, guests, and partners. The progress we make together, right here at Zoo Miami, can have local and global impacts for years to come. As we continue to build on the foundation of our traditions, the future becomes brighter. With a new year just ahead of us, we thank you all for your continued support and we are optimistic that 2024 will bring us all more progress, more hope, and more adventure.

FOLLOW US

Wishing you all a safe and wild season ahead.

José Romano ZMF President/CEO

8

SAVE THE DATE

6

11.16.23

4 10 18

Tiger Habitat Expansion Updates

Sea Turtle News: Double Recovery & Release

7 20

Animal Hospital News: Giraffe Surgery

8 16

6 12 23

Critically Endangered Gazelle Born at Zoo Miami

Welcoming Winston: Zoo Miami’s Newest Cheetah Ambassador

Adventures in Learning

Explore our upcoming educational programs for kids and families, including Zoo Camp, Nature Play, Zoo to You outreach, and more.

Holiday Events & Gifts

Notes for Members

Look back on FY22 with the latest Annual Report and get ready for pumpkin carving fun at an exclusive Member event!

Zoo Miami Foundation Quarterly Donors

West Kendall Baptist Healthy Recipe

PLEASE REMEMBER ZOO MIAMI FOUNDATION ON givemiamiday.org/zoomiami

10AM - 3PM INCLUDED WITH ZOO ADMISSION Get your tickets today at shop.zoomiami.org

▪ Trick or Treat in costumes (kids 12 & under)

▪ Participate in costume contests

▪ Meet Halloween characters

▪ See our animals get special Halloween treats & more! Members are FREE

CLICK HERE

Support thE TigEr Habitat Expansion

The roar of tigers will soon reverberate louder than ever at Zoo Miami when we unveil an expanded and upgraded Sumatran tiger exhibit that will enthrall visitors of all ages with up close and personal encounters. The tiger habitat was part of Zoo Miami’s initial footprint when it opened in 1980 and remains an iconic symbol of the zoo.

For more information, please reach out to Ron Stayton at rstayton@zoomiami.org

to read more about Sumatran tigers in the wild and at Zoo Miami. *This

There are many giving options available in support of our $4 million campaign and we would be happy to discuss an idea tailored to your interests. Your gift will be recognized appropriately at the new Sumatran tiger habitat.

sea turtle updates

Double Recovery & Release

This past August, two juvenile green sea turtles were released at Matheson Hammock Park following their recovery at Zoo Miami’s Sea Turtle Hospital. The turtles, estimated to be between three to five years old, were both rescued from the Dania Beach Pier after being unintentionally hooked by fishermen.

Weighing less than 10 pounds each, the turtles were too young for the team to accurately identify their sexes, but they were fondly named “Socket” and “Bolts.” Socket arrived to the Sea Turtle Hospital on July 17th, and Bolts on August 15th.

Following the removal of the hooks, both turtles were carefully monitored until they were deemed fully recovered and ready for release back to the wild. After receiving general examinations, getting weighed and measured, and being implanted with microchips, Socket and Bolts were transported to Matheson Hammock Park, where they were walked out and gently released into the sea.

These were the 16th and 17th sea turtles to be successfully released after treatment and recovery at Zoo Miami’s Sea Turtle Hospital.

ANimaL Hospital News

Turtle the Giraffe Undergoes Surgery

On August 30, 2023, an eight-month-old giraffe named “Turtle” underwent surgery at Zoo Miami to remove a bone fragment in his right rear leg. The fragment was most likely the result of a previous unknown trauma leading to pain in the joint and an abnormal gait. To avoid more severe issues, it was imperative that the bone fragment be surgically removed to relieve the pain and hopefully restore a normal gait.

Equine veterinary specialist, Dr. Alexander Daniel, along with his team consisting of veterinarian Dr. Sarah Gracida, veterinary technicians, Carson Gavalline and Gabrielle Ruiz, and veterinary student, Triston Lackey, volunteered their time to perform this very special surgery. They were assisted by Zoo Miami’s veterinarians Dr. Rodney Schnellbacher, Dr. Marisa Bezjian, Dr. Gaby Flacke and Dr. Gwen Myers, along with the zoo’s Animal Health team. It took a team of over a dozen people working together to successfully immobilize, transport, and monitor the 500-pound, 10-foot-tall giraffe during a procedure that took a total of just over two hours.

While immobilized, the giraffe received a series of radiographs to help determine the best surgical approach while also having a routine blood draw. Following the removal of the bone fragment, the joint was infused with hydrogel and stem cells to promote healing. In addition, Turtle received laser therapy, acupuncture therapy, and massage therapy, all designed to make the healing process more comfortable in the following days. Following the surgery, Turtle was observed walking normally, giving every indication that the surgery was a success!

ADDRA GAZELLE BORN AT ZOO MIAMI

On August 22, 2023, a critically endangered Addra gazelle was born on its exhibit habitat at Zoo Miami. It is the 79th Addra gazelle born in our zoo’s history!

The following morning, a neonatal exam was done on the newborn that included determining the gender, collecting blood, getting a weight, cleaning the umbilicus, and an overall physical exam. In addition, it was implanted with a microchip to facilitate future identification. The exam was led by Zoo Miami Associate Veterinarian, Dr. Gaby Flacke.

The female calf weighed just under 10 pounds and appears to be in general good health. She has been observed successfully nursing and is being well cared for by her mother, who is eight years old.

AXOLOTLS MAKE PUBLIC DEBUT AT ZOO MIAMI!

Four female axolotls can now be seen in the Flooded Forest building at Zoo Miami’s Amazon & Beyond exhibit!

Originating from the Mote Aquarium in Sarasota, there are two albinos (pink/white skin with pink eyes) and two leucistic (white skin with dark eyes) axolotls. These color phases are commonly seen in captive-bred individuals. In the wild, their normal color is generally brown with dark spots.

Axolotls have become very popular due to TikTok and the popular game, “Minecraft,” which recently added them to its universe. These critically endangered amphibians can be found in the wild in only one place, Lake Xochimilco, in Mexico City, where there are believed to be less than 1,000 left. Their greatest threats are habitat loss and pollution, as well as the introduction of non-native fish such as carp and tilapia to address food insecurity in the impoverished surrounding areas.

HISTORIC BLACK-NECKED STORK EUTHANIZED

On August 4, 2023, the difficult decision was made to euthanize a female black-necked stork, following a combination of geriatric issues, including blindness and disorientation, which severely compromised her quality of life.

This elegant bird was very special to us, as the last animal at Zoo Miami that originally came from Crandon Park Zoo on Key Biscayne and is estimated to have been over 50 years old. She arrived in 1977 and is believed to have been the oldest black-necked stork under human care in the world! Though we are sad to have lost this beautiful animal, we are comforted knowing that she lived an extraordinarily long life and helped inspire and educate many thousands of visitors over the years.

On June 14, 2023, Zoo Miami welcomed the arrival of “Winston Eugene Portland III”. This adorable cheetah cub was born at Wildlife Safari in Winston, Oregon on May 9th and his royalty-worthy full name is a tribute to the cities that have played a role in his life as he traveled through Oregon on his journey to Miami.

As per the recommendation of the Cheetah Species Survival Plan (SSP), Winston and his littermates have been selected to become ambassadors for their species at different zoos across the country.

Once he arrived at Zoo Miami, Winston was secluded in a quarantine area where he received a series of tests and exams to help ensure that he was healthy and developing normally. We are thrilled to share that he has since cleared quarantine and will be making public appearances as the staff prepares him for his role as a future star of the Zoo Miami Ambassador Team!

Winston will be following in the footsteps – or, pawprints –of our current cheetah ambassadors, 11-year-old brothers Koda & Diesel.

Adventures

Fall Camp: pumpkins & pawprints

Children must be five years old at the start date of the selected program.

mini Camp

When school is out, kids can experience the thrill of the wild during our one-day camps! Discover the rhythm of the insect world or saddle up for a cow-tastic time.

Available Sessions:

October 27: “Beetle-Mania!”

November 10: “Hoof Hootenany”

Fees: $52/ child for Zoo members; $65/ child for non-members.

Let’s get cozy and explore nature’s most colorful season! Campers will create delightful pumpkin treats for our furry friends and uncover the secret stories hidden in the pawprints left behind on a fall forest floor.

November 20-22, 2023

Fees: $132/ child for Zoo members; $165 for non-members

winter Camp

This winter, campers will be spellbound by the connections between mythical creatures and the zoo’s animals and experience the fun of the National Park Service’s Fat Bear Week competition!

Available Sessions:

December 26 – 29, 2023: “Fantastic Beasts”

January 2-6, 2024: “Bear Necessities”

Fees: $176/ child for Zoo members; $220/ child for non-members

Open to all ages

Want to play a handson role in providing our animals with mental and physical health stimulation? Drop by the Fun Factory to learn all about animal enrichments 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: $230 for in-person sessions; $130 for virtual sessions; Additional fees apply for new lesson creation

Zoo Miami Nature Play offers overnight camping adventures in Everglades National Park, including plenty of outdoor activities like canoeing, stargazing, and hiking through the wetlands!

These trips, which occur during our dry season, offer an incredible glimpse into our unique environmental treasure found here in our own backyard.

Please note that the minimum age to participate is 5 years old. One tent can hold 6 people (2-3 adults and 3-4 children).

The registration period for the 2025 Nature Play dates opens in January 2024. Keep an eye on your email inbox and register fast as spots often sell out quickly!

or call 305-255-5551 for additional information.

Stop and Smell the Flowers

Did you know that in addition to being home to over 2,500 animal residents, Zoo Miami is also a botanical garden with over 750 different species of trees, palms, and woody plants? With our year-round tropical climate, we can grow a wide variety of plants and flowers from all over the world, including beautiful native plants from Florida as well as unique specimens from exotic locations. As you explore the zoo, you can observe various themed gardens that will catch your eye and tickle your senses.

Check out some of our favorite plants

and fauna

and see if you can spot them on your next visit!

Rainbow Eucalyptus

Named for its multi-colored bark, the Rainbow Eucalyptus can be found in the Australia lobe at Zoo Miami.

Silk Floss Tree

You can spot these pretty pink flowers by the West bridge inside the Zoo Miami Aviary during the spring. The sweet nectar is known to attract monarch butterflies!

The Sausage Tree

One look at the weighty fruits on this tree, and you’ll understand the name. The unique tree can be seen by our Oasis Grille off the walkway by the splash pad. Though we humans can’t munch on the fruits, they are a handy ingredient used in making beer!

Lindley’s Dendrobium

Bright yellow and very suggestive of springtime, the Dendrobium Orchid blooms in late winter and early spring. Here at Zoo Miami, it can be found on the Black Olive Tree in front of the gerenuk paddock – or on the Sausage Tree!

12 Days of Wild Holiday Gifts

All promotions are valid December 13 – 25, 2023. Keep an eye on your inbox for more info!

Toshi’s Footprints

Custom Brick

Adopt an Animal

The 2022 Zoo Miami Foundation Annual Report

We are proud to share Zoo Miami Foundation’s Fiscal Year 2022 Annual Report here, featuring Jiwa the orangutan on the cover. Take a look back at the opening of our Sea Turtle Hospital, our Learning Experiences throughout the year, births and hatchings, conservation efforts, and much more.

Read Now

Buy a

Membership, Get Two Free Zoo Lights Tickets!

‘Tis the season for unlimited adventure! As you start working on your holiday gift list, keep an eye out for this special offer and tell your friends and family too!

Join us for a Pumpkin Carving Party!

On October 22nd, our Members are invited to get into the Fall festivities with us at an exclusive Pumpkin Carving Party! You bring your imagination, we’ll provide the tools, snacks, and refreshments! Plus, enjoy animal encounters and appearances by the Zoo Squad!

Space is very limited! Keep an eye on your inbox for more info.

JOIN TODAY

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!

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 animal species 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!

INDIVIDUALS

$25,000 + Robin and Marc Osheroff

$10,000 - $24,999

Walter J. Lynwood

$5,000 - $9,999

Mary Ann and Sherrill Hudson

Kirsten N. Hines and James A. Kushlan, Ph.D.

$1,000 - $4,999

The Forte Family

$500 - $999

Sandra M. and Herbert E. Allenson

Beth and Juan Campos

Shelley B. Daniel Rutherford and J. Larry Rutherford

Richard Dziadzio

J. Carol and Karl R. Kruse

Diane and Dennis MacInnes

Jessica Munden

Karina S. Schmid and Bartholemew Motes

Angela Williams

$100 - $499

Bernardo Babatz Alvarez

Sandra Bailey

Jeanette M. Ballesteros

Stephen Barsanti

Christine Barton

Joanne and Michael Binkov

Larry Bond

Jorge E. Calle and Elizabeth Cruz

Elizabeth and Andre Chammas

Carole J. Cholasta

Nicole Chow

Andrew J. Chwick

Corrie Clark

Cassidi Cobos

Joan and Richard Cohen

Amanda Collins

Natalie Davis

Claire Downs

Emily Engdahl

Shannon Falzone

Eric Fernandez

Courtney and Nate Fowler

Cory Friedman

Ana Garay

Lisa M. Gehlhausen

Rick Glickman

Bonna Nicholson and Steve Gordon

Andrew Haertzen

Scott Hollenbeck

Teresa and Robert Jabour

Isaiah Jefferson

Margarita Gutierrez and Farrokh Jhabvala

Joseph Johnson

Ben Katz

Cynthia Kohanek

Alan Kornicks

Margot and Harvey Kornicks

Cassandra Kutliek

Krista Lai

Jamie Lassonde

Crystal LeMaster

Jessica Lench Porter

Judy Loft and Joe Reid

Rumeal Lovell

Jacqui Marin

Lisa and Jay Massirman

Douglas McDuff

Laurin Mejia

Sue Meyers Mole

Roger G. Misleh

Barbara Moller

Kristen Moore

Natalie Muniz

Diana and Mauricio Navarrete

Andrea Brezing and Joshua E. Navarro

Anne Nichols

Tina M. Nuccitelli

Arianna Oliva

Eduardo Perez

Marisol Perez-Fernandez

Daren J. Primoli

Christi and David Reis

Donna J. Rich

Alec Robbins

Andre Rodriguez

Katherine Schultz

Carmela and Jay Siegel

Michael A. Simkowitz, Ph.D.

Ms. Kathryn Sippel

Kenneth Smith

Cheyanne Sorochman

Ronald K. Stayton

The Honorable Micky Steinberg

Shannon Swint

William P. VanderWyden

Virginia and Robert Vespe

Ward B. Whitten

Lisa B. Wilson

Kathleen Winters

Rebecca Wooley

Nelly C. Yunta

We would like to recognize and thank those who contributed to Zoo Miami Foundation between June 21,2023 - September 19, 2023. Your generosity helps us fulfill our mission of wildlife education and conservation, and we are truly grateful for your support.*

CORPORATE PARTNERS

$25,000 +

Nashville Zoo, Inc.

$10,000 - $24,999

Bank of America

PepsiCo

$5,000 - $9,999

Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida

Heaven Hill Inc.

$1,000 - $4,999

4Ever Young Anti-Aging Solutions

BODYARMOR Sports Drink

FL Clean Up

I&E Aquademy, LLC dba

Little Swimmers, Inc.

Media Counselors, LLC

Ocaquatics Management, Inc.

Parrot Fish Studio

Shelburne Farms Resources

SSA Group

Twin Cities Public Television, Inc.

$500 - $999

Carter2 Systems, Inc.

Great Expressions

Dental Centers

Lavcor llc

Mutual of America

Financial Group

Ocaquatics Swim School

School of Rock Miami

Sky Zone Doral

Stronghold Studios

Wawa, Inc.

$100 - $499

Brian Call Nature Images

Maxwell Brothers LLC

Ocaquatics Management, Inc

Procaccini Media LLC

FOUNDATIONS

$25,000 + Peacock Foundation, Inc.

The Wildflower Foundation, Inc.

$10,000 - $24,999

Florida Panthers Foundation

PNC Foundation

The Tonkinson Foundation

$5,000 - $9,999

The Cobb Family Foundation, Inc.

$100 - $499

Sofia’s Hope, Inc.

GOVERNMENT PARTNERS

$25,000

Miami-Dade County Parks & Recreation Department

National Science Foundation

*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.

#BaptistHealthy: Overnight Oats

Overnight oats make for a healthy breakfast for the whole family. Just mix and let sit overnight for a nutritious morning treat.

Ingredients for 2 servings

• ½ cup oatmeal

• 1 cup milk or milk alternative

• Toppings (fruit, nuts, spices, yogurt)

Directions

1. Pour ¼ cup oatmeal into each container

2. Add ½ cup of milk, water or milk alternative

3. Cover container and let sit in the refrigerator 1-3 days

4. Enjoy cold or put in microwave for 1 minute to warm up

5. Add desired toppings. Here are some options:

• Strawberries and sliced almonds, chia seeds

• Banana, walnuts, vanilla extract, cinnamon

• Cocoa powder, coconut flakes and plain Greek yogurt

• Blueberries and almond butter

One serving using 1% fat milk

Nutrition Information (per serving):

Calories 200; Calories from Fat 35; Total Fat 4g; Saturated Fat 1g; Cholesterol 5mg; Dietary Fiber 4g; Carbohydrates 32g; Sugars 6g; Sodium 55mg; Protein 11g.

One serving using water

Nutrition Information (per serving):

Calories 150; Calories from Fat 25g; Total Fat

2.5g; Dietary Fiber 4g; Carbohydrates 26g; Sodium 5mg; Protein 7g.

Honoring a true champion of wildlife

Marta Weeks Wulf 1930 - 2023

Dear Zoo Miami Community,

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of a beloved member of our extended family, Marta Weeks Wulf. Marta and her late husband Austin were not only cherished friends and supporters but also a symbol of unwavering dedication to Zoo Miami Foundation. Over the last four decades, the Weeks family has played an instrumental role in shaping the zoo’s growth and success, leaving an indelible mark on our institution.

The Weeks family were extraordinary benefactors and passionate advocates for wildlife conservation and will forever be remembered for their remarkable contributions to Zoo Miami. Their dedication to our mission was so profound that our Foundation’s office proudly bears the family name, serving as a constant reminder of the legacy they leave behind. Additionally, the Weeks family’s commitment to the well-being of our animal residents was epitomized by the naming of our current zoo hospital in honor of their beloved son, Christopher A. Weeks in 1986.

One of the family’s most remarkable contributions was made during the challenging times following Hurricane Andrew. Their commitment to Zoo Miami shone brightly as they generously donated $5 million to our Foundation’s endowment, fortifying our ability to persevere and continue our vital work in the face of adversity.

Marta Weeks and her family have left an enduring legacy that will continue to shape the future of Zoo Miami for generations to come. It is thanks in part to Marta’s most recent transformational gift, that we are supporting a new, state-of-the-art animal hospital.

As we mourn the loss of Marta Weeks, let us also celebrate the Weeks family’s extraordinary contributions and the profound impact they have had on Zoo Miami. We are forever grateful for their friendship, generosity, and commitment to our shared vision of a world where wildlife thrives.

Please join us in keeping the Weeks family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Marta will be dearly missed, but her spirit and the legacy of her family will forever be a part of Zoo Miami.

With deepest condolences,

Jose Romano President & CEO On behalf of Zoo Miami Foundation