Koalas, Tigers, Elephants – Worth more than one Trip to the Zoo

We’ve had a busy late winter and spring preparing for 2016. We’ve added some great new animals, remodeled some existing areas, added a few amenities for our animals and you, and added some amazing events for the whole family.

We hope everyone’s excited to see the koalas, they’re so cute! It’s been a few years since we brought them to our Zoo so we felt it was time for an encore. The San Diego Zoo makes a few of their Australian ambassadors available to zoos in exchange for support for koala conservation programs back in Australia. Surprisingly, these marsupials are struggling in their homeland for space and for survival. We hope you enjoy the new Koala Flats, right behind the carousel. This will be home for the visiting koalas, which by the way, will be here through November.

Two new Sumatran tigers arrived at the Zoo this spring while our older tigers were sent to other zoos for potential breeding opportunities. These four-year old, extremely active brothers also hail from the San Diego Zoo where one of ours was sent, the other to the Dallas Zoo. We’ve also received two new red pandas, from different zoos and they’ve been assigned to our Zoo for potential breeding. Our animal population is always changing so watch your email and visit our website and social media for continual updates.

We’ve also added a major addition for our elephants; they now have an enormous shade canopy. If you haven’t been out to see our new “little guy” Tamani, he’d love to see you! Of course at just over 5,000 pounds he hardly looks little. He’ll be up in the main exhibit this summer with all the girls. He does love to get in his swimming pool!

We’ve remodeled our Rafiki restaurant in Africa and added a few new menu items and will add a few more specialty food carts around the Zoo this summer. Our team has also added a lot of special events this season, offering most on both Saturday and Sunday to provide you with additional opportunities to see and learn about our amazing animals.

As always, thanks for becoming FOTZ members and supporting all we do here at the Zoo. We hope you enjoy the improvements we make so that your visits are more enjoyable each time. Remember that from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend we open the Zoo at 8am each morning. It’s always enjoyable to visit early; the animals are usually extremely active at that time. There’s always something happening at the Zoo so visit often.

NONPROFIT ORGU.S. POSTAGE

PA I DKANSAS CITY, MO

#4831

6800 Zoo Drive | Kansas City, MO 64132816.595.1234 | www.KansasCityZoo.org

LOOK INSIDE!

Ocean-Friendly SubstitutesHow do you enjoy seafood when many popular species have been overfished and populations are now depleted? By choosing ocean-friendly substitutes that are healthy, sustainable, and just as delicious as your current favorites.

Reprinted in part from a National Geographic article, chef and seafood expert Barton Seaver shares sustainable—and flavorful—substitutions for many overfished and depleted species.

Atlantic CodAtlantic cod has a very similar cousin on the West Coast called Pacific cod, which is nearly an identical stand-in. It has the same flaky yet dense flesh and it cooks with the same distinctive flavor. It also responds well to the wide variety of cooking methods usually written for Atlantic cod. Also try Pacific ling or Alaskan pollack as a substitute.

Atlantic HalibutThis is a no-brainer. Choose Pacific halibut. It is nearly the same eating experience and is often less expensive and easier to find than its Atlantic brethren. The fish come from very sustainable fisheries ranging all along the West Coast. Especially great fish come from the cold waters of Alaska.

Chilean Sea Bass (Patagonian Toothfish)As a substitute for any preparation, try Alaskan sablefish. Also known as black cod, these fish share the same buttery, rich flesh, which can be cooked using almost any method. Sablefish is available year round and is quite a bit less expensive than Chilean sea bass.

ShrimpThere are some fantastic shrimp out there that nearly no one knows about. Oregon pink shrimp or Maine pinks are delicious

products that are very inexpensive and very convenient. Available all year round as frozen products, these work well in soups, salads, cocktails, sandwiches, and nearly every other preparation you can imagine. They are smaller than warm-water shrimp but are clean and sweet in flavor and a real treat.

There are also some farm-raised shrimp options available from U.S. producers that are great eating. They are only a little more expensive and you can eat well knowing that you are supporting ecofriendly practices and helping to create jobs for Americans.

There are some wild-caught options, as well, such as Fisherman’s Daughter wild Sonora Coast shrimp from CleanFish, which is delicious and a great sustainable story. Also look for fresh wild shrimp from the Gulf States and the Carolinas.

Let’s Get Social!

Wild About

GiraffesSee page 7

The mission of the Kansas City Zoo is to conserve and provide access to wildlife to entertain and educate our visitors in order to instill a respect for nature.

OPEN DAILY!

ExpeditionsExpeditions 2ND

QT

R :

2016

A quarterly publication of the Kansas City Zoo

2 www.kansascityzoo.org

2016 Friends of the Zoo BOARD OF DIRECTORSChuck Caisley, Chairperson – KCP&L

Todd LaSala, Secretary Stinson, Leonard, Street LLP

Sal Montalbano, Treasurer PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP

Karen Begelfer, SprintDavid Chavez, Latin Point Communications Sharon Cleaver, Boys & Girls Clubs

of Greater Kansas CityRod Crawford, Glazer’sWes Dixon, Keywest TechnologiesChris Egan, SMG ServicesWesley Fields, Bryan Cave LLPHayley Hanson, Husch Blackwell Howard Jacobson, Paragon Capital Mgmt, LLCMark Killen, American Century InvestmentsGayle Krigel, Community VolunteerYvette Miceli, Construction Broker, Inc.Pat Murphy, Robert E. Miller GroupJohnathon Myers, Research Medical CenterJim Rine, UMB BankDean Rodenbough, Hallmark CardsMelissa Roe, Community VolunteerCiCi Rojas, Central ExchangeMary Sallee, Community VolunteerCarla Sanders, AMC TheatresTrish Sexton, PolsinelliKathy Smith, Community VolunteerTom Waggoner, HOKTom Wright, EPR PropertiesDavid Yeamans, Burns & McDonnell

Representing the City of Kansas City Allen Dillingham, Commissioner,

Board of Parks and RecreationAlissia Canady, City Council Mark McHenry, Director Parks and RecreationTroy Schulte, City ManagerKathryn Shields, City Council

Zoological District CommissionersRay Brock, Clay CountyMark McHenry, KC Parks and Recreation

RepresentativeJerry Nolte, Clay CountyKevin Pistilli, Jackson CountyDan Tarwater III, Jackson CountyRandy Wisthoff, KC Zoo Representative

Open daily, year round, closed only on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

www.KansasCityZoo.org816.595.1234

The Kansas City Zoo is a non-smoking environment except in designated areas which are indicated on the

Zoo Map and on grounds with signs and ash trays.

The Kansas City Zoo, a private, non-profit organization is operated in agreement with the Kansas City, MO Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners, partially funded by the Zoological District in Jackson and Clay Counties in MO, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

Terrific TigersTwo new Sumatran tigers at the KCZoo are four-year-old brothers from the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Born on March 5, 2012, Conrad and Thomas were favorites of the guests and Zookeepers at their former Zoo and have impressed Kansas City Zookeepers as well. Conrad is very energetic and loves to explore enrichment items. Thomas enjoys training with the Zookeepers and has a confident personality. Both tigers have a calm demeanor.

Conrad and Thomas will share the exhibit on Tiger Trail that formerly housed brothers Langka and Manis. Manis moved to the Dallas Zoo and Langka moved to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

Fully grown Sumatran tigers can reach seven feet long and weigh 300 pounds. Sumatran tigers are the smallest species of tiger and have several unique features. They have the longest whiskers of any tiger, used for navigating through the forest and their stripes are the closest together to help them blend in with their surroundings. They also have webbed toes to allow for fast swimming. Stop by Tiger Trail to meet Conrad and Thomas and watch them explore their new home!

Outback AdditionsTwo new animals from the outback are joining our koalas at the Kansas City Zoo. A male and female dingo are now on exhibit in Australia. Meet our newest canine species and see them exploring their new digs near the kangaroos. The male is named “Otto” and the female is named “Lefty.” They will turn four years old next week and although they share a birthday, they are not siblings. Otto is very timid but very sweet. He enjoys spending time splashing around in the pool located in the exhibit. Lefty likes attention and is very adventurous and vocal. Both of them enjoy playing with one another and chasing each other around their new home.

Dingoes are medium-sized, long-legged, athletic dogs of great agility, speed and stamina. They are most commonly found in Australia and Thailand and can live in most any habitat from tropical wetlands to hot arid, deserts. Males are distinctly larger than females, and Australian dingoes tend to be larger than those in Asia.

15Expeditions — 2nd Quarter 2016

Zoo CalendarEvery month we have activities planned for all age groups.

July – Continued

September

AugustSat/Sun, July

23–2411 am

Penguin March Humboldt penguins will get up close as they march around Helzberg Penguin Plaza delighting guests of all ages. Learn about these amazing birds from their Zookeepers as they strut their stuff.

Sat/Sun, July

30–3110 am–3 pm

Dog Days of Summer — Painted Dogs The middle of summer is for the dogs! Visit us this weekend to learn all about our canine counterparts.

Sat/Sun, July

30–3111:30 am & 1 pm

Koala Birthday Party Burra and Coedie are turning 3! Help us celebrate with a party down under; sing the boys happy birthday and have a cupcake to mark their milestone.

Sat/Sun, Sept

3–410 am–3 pm

Superheroes Meet your favorite superhero at the Zoo from 10 am to 3 pm. You can meet and take your picture with Ant-Man, Spider-Man, Hulk and female superhero, Black Widow.

Sat, Sept

248:30–10:30 am

Zoo Run or Walk for the Gorillas A 4-Mile timed event starts at 8:30 am. The Family Fun Run starts at 9:45 am. Both events are open to runners and walkers.

Sat/Sun, Aug

6–710 am–3 pm

Back to School Weekend Meet & Greet with PBS star, Daniel Tiger 10-2 Saturday August 6.

Sat/Sun, Aug

13–1410 am–3 pm

Zootastik Learning Fest It’s all about reptiles and amphibians. Discover what makes these animals so unique through fun activities, demonstration and crafts. All activities, demonstrations and crafts are included with Zoo admission.

Sun, Aug

141–2:30 pm

Volunteer Open House If you’re looking for volunteer opportunities please consider the Zoo! Join us and learn about the many possible ways you can lend your skills to our organization.

Sat/Sun, Aug

20–2110:30 am

Cheetah Run Meet at the cheetah exhibit at 10:30 sharp to watch Gigi as she zigs and zags, zips and zaps at top speed!

Sat/Sun, Aug

20–2110 am–3 pm

Snow Zoo Beat the heat with the animals. Berlin will enjoy an icy paradise when we dump TWO TONS of ice into the Polar Bear Passage. Our river otters will also be enjoying icy treats. Check out all the cool action from 10 am to 3 pm

Fri, Aug

264–8 pm

FOTZ Exclusive Evening As the sun goes down the Zoo comes alive! FOTZ Members, join us for these exclusive hours as we keep our doors open just for you! Grab dinner at Tuxedo Grill and explore the Zoo in the twilight. We’ll have music, face painters and so much more!

Sat/Sun, Aug

27–2810 am–3 pm

Species Spotlight — Lions This weekend is all about the King of the Jungle! Learn about these large African predators at their exhibit.

Sat/Sun, Aug

27–2811 am

Penguin March The Humboldt penguins are talking a stroll out of their exhibit! Get up close as they march around the Helzberg Penguin Plaza, and ask questions of their Zookeepers.

Sun, Aug

281–2:30 pm

Volunteer Open House Do you have a passion for people, animals, and nature? This is the perfect time to get involved. Please fill out the Adult Volunteer Application form online at KansasCityZoo.org and join us at the open house!

Check out our calendar of events online at KansasCityZoo.org to find out more information and make reservations or call 816-595-1234 for more assistance.

Funnel CakesYou may not know that the Zoo has added a sweet confection to the list of great menu items available for purchase. Funnel cakes are a special sweet treat that is sure to satisfy your craving! You can find our funnel cakes at Safari Snacks located in the at the entrance to Africa!

Did you Know?Painted dogs spend about 80% of their time in close association with one another, more than any other species of wild canid. Due to the closeness of their pack and the participation of all but the young and the babysitters of the pack,

painted dogs astoundingly catch their prey 60% of the time (compared to the 10% success rate of other canids).

Zoo CalendarEvery month we have activities planned for all age groups.

June – ContinuedSat/Sun, June

25 & 2611 am

Penguin March See Humboldt penguins up close as they march around Helzberg Penguin Plaza. Get a chance to see these amazing birds out from behind the glass!

Sun, June

261–2:30 pm

Volunteer Open House Meet the CEO and learn about Volunteer Opportunities at the Zoo, register online at KansasCityZoo.org/get-involved/volunteer

Check out our calendar of events online at KansasCityZoo.org to find out more information and make reservations or call 816-595-1234 for more assistance.

New Cat in TownThere’s a new resident of the Kansas City Zoo and he’s quite the looker — Nandi — a caracal! Caracal cats are medium sized weighing up to 40 pounds when fully grown. These fashionable felines are consummate predators of birds and lizards to animals two to three times their own size! Black ear tufts and white eye markings make these cats very distinguished in appearance, but don’t be fooled; they have big attitudes to match. Native to African grasslands, these sandy colored predators blend in seamlessly with their surroundings, ready to leap and catch or run and pounce on unsuspecting prey. We’re excited to welcome this beautiful cat to the Zoo; we

hope you visit him near the lions on your next visit.

14 www.kansascityzoo.org 3Expeditions — 2nd Quarter 2016

Penguin MarchesEvery fourth Saturday join us at Helzberg Penguin Plaza to watch the march of the penguins KCZoo style! Our Humboldt penguins are leaving their exhibit and taking a stroll around the building. You’ll be able to get up close to these endearing birds as they strut their stuff and explore the outside world.

Penguin NamingOur Gentoo penguin chick has a name! Earlier this year the Zoo held a contest on social media to name our newest baby penguin. Zoo fans were able to nominate and vote to name this fluffy little chick and the name chosen by over 1700 fans was “Bobber” in honor of Sara “Bob” Prideaux.

June

July

Fri, June

37:30 pm

Jazzoo Join the pack at the wildest fundraiser in Kansas City, where party animals from across the metro will join one another to enjoy unlimited food, drinks, and entertainment while raising money for our hometown Zoo. Dress to impress to celebrate the Zoo and raise funds to feed our flock and benefit our Zoo Learning Fund!

Thur, June

95:30–8 pm

Volunteer Open House Interested in volunteering at the Zoo? Learn about exciting volunteer programs at the KCZoo directly from Zoo staff and the Executive Director himself.

Sat, June

118 am–5 pm

Sporting KC Day Sporting KC players Chance Myers, Benny Feilhaber, Seth Sinovic and Brad Davis are taking on the Zoo’s dynamic defender, Delilah- the sea lion. They’ll play a little one-on-one with our sea lions, paint with our orangutans and sign autographs for our guests. Try out your soccer skills on the Sporting KC Futsal Court. Our animals will be getting in the Sporting spirit as well by enjoying special enrichment items donated to them by Sporting KC.

Sat/Sun, June

11 & 1210 am–3 pm

Zootastik Learning Fest Healthy oceans, healthy planet. Make a pledge to help the oceans – be on the wave of change. It’s World Oceans Day. All activities are free with Zoo admission.

Sat, June

1812 pm–9 pm

Putt N’ Play for Polar Bears Help us raise money for polar bears with a fun evening at Paradise Park. Putt N’ Play is designed to educate people about polar bears in the wild and what a large effect climate change has on them. Enjoy bumper cars, laser tag, mini golf, raffle, silent auction and so much more while you help polar bears in the wild!

Sat, June

189 am–3 pm

Red Cross Blood Drive The Kansas City Zoo’s annual Red Cross Blood Drive is a great opportunity for Zoo goers to give back. Schedule your appointment by visiting redcrossblood.org and using sponsor code: KCZoo. All donors will receive a ticket for FREE admission to the Kansas City Zoo!

Sat/Sun, June

18 & 1910:30 am

Cheetah Run Go Gigi go! Watch as our feline track star zips around her exhibit at top speed while chasing a lure. Cheetahs are known for being the fastest land animals; blink and you may miss her!

Sun, June

198 am–5 pm

Father’s Day Bring Papa Bear to the Zoo on Father’s Day! Dads receive free admission and a free hog dog. Celebrate Dad all day at the KC Zoo.

Sat/Sun, June

25–2610 am–3 pm

Species Spotlight — Giraffe and Ungulates Animals with hooves are all collectively known as ungulates. Learn all about their fancy footwear and the adaptations that they have to deal with their varied habitats.

Sat–Mon, July

2, 3 & 48 am–5 pm

Red, White, and Zoo In honor of Independence Day, all active and former military personnel with a valid ID will receive FREE Zoo admission on Saturday, July 2 through Monday, July 4. Family members of those military individuals will also receive $1 off regular admission. Animals will receive red, white and blue enrichment items.

Sat/Sun, July

9 & 1010 am–3 pm

Zootastik Learning Fest Would you like to ride around in a backpack your entire childhood. Well, marsupials are the kinds of animals that can do this. Find out all about koalas and kangaroos this month at ZLF.

Sat, July

168–10 am

FOTZ Family Breakfast FOTZ Members, we’re treating the whole family to a hot breakfast! Join us at the Tropics tent and start off your day at the Zoo right! Breakfast will be provided to those covered by your current Membership. Catch a special showing of Kung Fu Panda, just for FOTZ Members at 8:30 am!

Sat/Sun July

16-178 am–5 pm

Powell Gardens Reciprocal Weekend Members of Powell Gardens receive 50% off admission to the KC Zoo; KCZoo members receive 50% off admission to Powell Gardens.

Sat/Sun July

16-1710 am–3 pm

Wildly Fun Event Face painting, animal ice enrichment, and more await! Visit the Zoo for a Wildly Fun weekend!

Sat/Sun July

16-1710:30 am

Cheetah Run Catch a glimpse of our cheetah as she stretches her legs at top speed! The cheetah run is a great form of enrichment and exercise for Gigi the cheetah and a great way for you to see her in action.

Sat–Mon, July

16–18Noon

Kung Fu Panda We’re screening Kung Fu Panda in the Zoo auditorium free with Zoo Admission or current FOTZ Membership. Seats are limited and will be first come, first served at all showings.

Sat/Sun, July

23–2410 am–3 pm

Species Spotlight — Apes We’re going ape at the Zoo and so should you! Join us to learn all about our closest living relatives — the apes!

Panamanian Golden FrogsCritically endangered, these beautiful yellow frogs with striking black spots are some of the world’s most eye-catching amphibians. Dining on small toxic insects in the wild, Panamanian Golden Frogs incorporate the poisons into their skin and are able to deter predators with their deadly toxins and warning coloration.

Severely threatened by the fungal disease chytridiomycosis, also known as Chytrid (Kit-trid), in their native Panama, the Kansas City Zoo has joined many other institutions to save these symbols of Central America. Captive breeding populations have been established and protocols put in place to ensure these amazing creatures’ long term survival. If the Chytrid fungus is ever eliminated from the environment these captive breeding programs may be able to reestablish wild populations. You can see these golden beauties in the Discovery Barn’s Amphibian Ark.

FOTZ Exclusive EveningVisit the Kansas City Zoo’s summer evening event on Friday, August 26. Prowl and play while experiencing the Zoo in a whole new light. This members-only event offers unique and exciting activities that allow guests to explore, see, and hear the Zoo differently than a daytime visit. Join us for magic, music, and fun during the evening hours at Zoo from 4–8 pm.

Zoo Education EventsA Bolivian AdventureIn the beginning, thanks to the Kansas City Zoo’s Conservation Initiative, the plan for my trip to Bolivia was to help build a new “Amphibian Ark” or captive breeding facility for the critically endangered Lake Titicaca Water Frog (Telmatobius coleus).

However, this trip turned out to be so much more.

The Bolivian Amphibian Initiative is a project aiming to protect, monitor, and generate information on endangered species in Bolivia with a focus in the high Andean region. The Lake Titicaca Water Frog is one of those species of interest. The project has several parts:

• teaching the local community about the frog and the threats causing their decline,

• doing field research to provide data on the frog’s natural habitat,

• developing Education programs for local schools and communities, and

• developing a captive breeding facility for the Water Frog and other endangered species.

Dr. Arturo Munoz, the founder of this project, engaged a group of international volunteers. When I arrived in Cochabamba, Bolivia, I met up with the other members of the team. After introductions to the team we began working on the breeding facility at the Museum of Natural History Alcides D’Orbigny of Cochabamba. My job was to install all of the electrical systems for the Ark and to help with the plumbing for all of the aquariums used to house the frogs. I also supervised the installation of the cooling units and two large water storage tanks. The fantastic volunteer staff at the Museum were extremely helpful.

To my surprise, in addition to working on the container to get it ready to receive the Water Frogs, we also went on several trips into the field to collect data on other endangered Bolivian Amphibians. This turned out to be a valuable addition to the trip.

We first visited Cloud Forest in the Chapare region, located north of Cochabamba in search of an undescribed member of the Ameerega boliviana family. Dr. Munoz had recorded its vocalizations on an earlier trip but he was unable to photograph

it. We spent several hours in the middle of the night in the Cloud Forest listening for this frog as they called to find mates. We heard a symphony of other frogs and insects and saw large groups of frogs in breeding pools. Finally, we heard the calls of the undescribed species Arturo had recorded before but we were unable to locate it for a photo.

Next, we flew into LaPaz and drove to Lake Titicaca. When we arrived at the lake, we took the ferry at Tiquina and drove to Copacabana then took a boat to Isla de la Luna (Island of the Moon). We had meetings with the local council and snorkeled on both the sides of the island. Here, we were very successful locating Water Frogs. Unfortunately I had to depart with my colleague Robert from Zoo Atlanta before they started to collect frogs.

Three articles were published about our trip: two in a National Bolivian publication and one in the local Cochabamba newspaper. During this trip I made dozens of connections with a diverse group of conservation minded individuals and great organizations. We have all agreed to stay in touch and continue our involvement in conservation and the quest to save the Water Frogs. As a representative of the Kansas City Zoo, I’ll be sharing what I have learned with the rest of the Zoo community.

Tim Steinmetz — Animal Curator

Overnights Open to Children Ages 6 and olderAfter the sun sets and the lights go out, do the Zoo’s animals stay awake? Attend a Zoo Overnight and experience the Zoo in a whole new light, err…dark! Learn about animals and have fun in the moonlight. Space is limited so reserve your spot today.

This is camping in its truest form, no electrical outlets, but restrooms are close by. No shower facilities. All campers need to bring their own tents, sleeping bags and flashlights. The overnight includes a guided tour, activities, an animal encounter and s’mores! We will walk about when the rest of the Zoo is closed, so we will see who might be awake! In the morning the adventure continues with a complimentary continental breakfast in our Zoo Learning Center. Programs are rain or shine.

6 pm–8:30 amJune 24 Slumber Down Under

7 pm–8 amJune 11 Penguin Pole-looza July 16 Elephant ExtravaganzaAugust 13 Polar Bear PJ Party

New Overnight: Slumber Down Under 6 pm–8:30 amThe Koalas are here and Marsupial Madness has definitely set in. The Kansas City Zoo would like to introduce our new addition to the Overnight Programs: Slumber Down Under. Bring your tents and let’s go on a walkabout through all things Koalas and Australia. By the end of the evening, you are sure to be as mad about marsupials as we are and you might even be speaking a bit of ‘Strine,’ too. (That’s Australian, mate!)

Pre-School Programs Open to Children Ages 3-5Science Adventure Club Join us for an educational hour of programming geared to the youngest Zoo fans. Laugh, learn and play with themes showcasing the natural world. Each week has a different theme so be sure to catch them all. Wednesdays and Thursdays, June through July 11:00am-Noon

Goodnight Zoo Slip on your slippers, crawl into your PJs and snuggle with your favorite stuffed animals as we enter the world down under to explore Koalas and the land of Australia. Bring your little one to the Zoo at 6pm on a Saturday

evening for two hours of magical, scientific adventure. Explorations stations, crafts and activities make this educational evening prefect for the whole family. The next Goodnight Zoo is on Saturday, June 18 and it is all about Koalas.

Birthday PartiesLooking for a hassle-free, fun venue for your birthday party? Why not have it at the Zoo. The Kansas City Zoo has two great birthday options that will make your special day ZOO-rific! Each party includes a private room, cupcakes, ice cream, and lemonade/water for 24 guests. The best part of all…we take care of all the preparations and clean up. All you have to do is show up and have FUN! Food and entertainment additions are also available for an additional fee. Call us to discuss how we can make your birthday the best day of the year!

Birthday Parties are available most Saturdays and Sundays starting at 9:30am, noon and 2:30pm. Tiny Tykes birthdays are open to children ages 1–3 and last one hour. Other parties are for children ages 3 and older and last 1.5 hours.

For more information or to register visit us online or call 816-595-1234.

4 www.kansascityzoo.org 13Expeditions — 2nd Quarter 2016

Pair of Red Pandas for BreedingRandy and Kate are two of the newest residents of the KCZoo and they’re here to increase the population of Red Pandas! These two adorable red “fire-foxes” were selected by the Species Survival Program to relocate to Kansas City in the hope that they hit it off and produce cubs. Red Pandas are a vulnerable species to extinction and are of cultural importance to the people of China, where they are native. Protection of the bamboo forests from destruction for farmland is essential to the long-term survival of the species.

Red Panda 411• Red pandas have enlarged wrist

bones known as pseudothumbs that help them grasp their food efficiently.

• Red pandas use urine, feces, and scent from an anal gland to mark their territory. Their trails are marked with scent from glands on the soles of their feet.

• They communicate with short whistles and squeaks.

12 www.kansascityzoo.org 5Expeditions — 2nd Quarter 2016

Koala FlatsOpen: April 28, 2016 Cost: $1 million of private and public dollars

Construction: Straub Total square feet: 1250

• Our two males are on loan from the San Diego Zoo. Their names are “Burra” who was born on August 3, 2013 and “Coedie” who was born on July 30, 2013.

• Koalas live in the eucalyptus forest of Australia.

• Koalas are picky eaters, dining on mostly eucalyptus leaves.

• They eat about 2 pounds of eucalyptus leaves daily. Since it does not grow here in KC, four varieties of eucalyptus must be flown in twice per week to ensure peak freshness.

• Koalas sleep a lot! Eucalyptus is very low in energy and can be very toxic to most other animals. So they rest about 18 hours per day when they are detoxifying the poison in eucalyptus.

• The word “Koala” means “no drink” in the Aboriginal language. They receive most of their liquid from their eucalyptus diet.

• Koalas are marsupials meaning they have their babies called joeys in a pouch like kangaroos.

• The Koalas pouches open towards the rear of the Koala instead of towards the front like most marsupial animals, such as the kangaroo.

• The term joey is an Aborigines term that means small one.

• Guests can learn more about the koalas at two Zookeeper chats daily; 11:30 am and 1 pm.

Vietnamese Mossy FrogHabitat: Around rivers and streams in the forests of northern Vietnam. These amphibians are semi-aquatic hiding in the water under rocks and plants and sometimes on rocks just above the water. They’re named “mossy” frog because they look just like moss!

Staying safe: Mossy Frogs do a lot of hiding because they are hunted by other animals. For this reason, having excellent camouflage is critical to their survival. Their mossy disappearing act is so detailed that the skin is very bumpy with green, brown, and black coloration to look just like a clump of moss. Even their eyes are camouflaged! When they sit perfectly still, the Mossy Frogs blend in perfectly with the moss around them.

Adaptations: Sticky toe pads that help the Mossy Frog climb things like trees and rocks. Another adaption is playing dead. If a Mossy Frog is frightened they will curl into a ball and play dead; usually, the predator loses interest and leaves the frog alone.

On the menu: Bugs are the Mossy Frogs’ favorite food. At the Zoo, we feed them crickets. Did you know that Mossy Frogs along with many other amphibians have to blink to swallow their food? When the frog blinks, the eyes help push the food from their mouth down their throat into their stomach!

Normal day for a Mossy Frog: During the day they hide and sleep. At nighttime, they search for food and find other frogs by calling to them.

Do you want to be a Zoo Volunteer?Are you looking for a way to give back to your community? There are many opportunities to help at the Kansas City Zoo.

Adult Animal Volunteer ProgramAnimal volunteers are an exciting addition to our volunteer program at the Kansas City Zoo. These volunteers work with the Animal Care staff to perform routine work assignments involving the care of Zoo animals, maintenance of Zoo exhibits and animal enclosures. Volunteers may also participate in research and/or behavior studies. Animal volunteers must be 18 or older and will go through an extensive interview process to ensure a match to the program needs.

Guest Guide Volunteer ProgramGuest Guide volunteers greet and assist Zoo visitors by answering their questions, directing them to various attractions and making suggestions for more satisfying visits. Guest Guides must be 18 or older.

Team Habitat Volunteer Program

Team Habitat volunteers assist with projects for all the departments at the Zoo. Projects range from light physical duty such as planting and painting doors, to more physically challenging projects such as cleaning/organizing Zoo areas after special events, pruning and clearing brush.

Youth volunteers ages 14–15 may participate in this program, but must be accompanied by a Team Habitat volunteer adult/parent at all times. Youth ages 16 and older may volunteer without a parent.

Zooscaper Volunteer ProgramZooScaper volunteers, age 18 or older, assist with projects for the Zoo’s Horticultural Department. Examples of projects include planting, weeding, mulching and watering.

Special Event Volunteer ProgramSpecial Event volunteers help direct Zoo guests to the activities associated with special events and assist in monitoring these activities. For example, aiding with line control and keeping guests happy while waiting, monitoring the silent auctions, helping with setup and tear down and check-in of guests. Other duties for our Special Event volunteers include: assisting with crafts, distributing promotional items, escorting mascot characters, crowd control, taking materials to various areas of the Zoo and placing directional signs.

Youth volunteers ages 14–15 may participate in this program, but must be accompanied by a Special Events volunteer adult/parent at all times. Youth ages 16 and older may volunteer without a parent.

2016 FOTZ Membership

FOTZ only events & hours

MakesfantasticGIFTS

ADMISSION until March 31, 2017

20% Discount on Food & Beverage and Gift Shop for Rides Level; 10% discount for Basic Level

Pays for

itselfin

2 VISITS

Discounted, reciprocal admission to over

150 accredited Zoos and Aquariums

Purchase your FOTZ Membership Today!

ZOO

www.kansascityzoo.org

816-595-1234

CLICKor

CALL

Now available

Conservation Status of KoalasKoalas are listed as vulnerable in Australia and their

numbers are decreasing. The forests are disappearing causing a lack of safe passage from one tree to another.

Therefore automobiles and dogs are impacting the number of koalas in the wild. The goal of the koala conservation

program in San Diego is to enhance the long-term survival and sustainability of both free ranging and zoo based koalas.

6 www.kansascityzoo.org 11Expeditions — 2nd Quarter 2016

SUMMER CAMPS Registration is now open for the many summer camps the KCZoo offers to children aged 4–15. You can expect animal encounters, behind the scenes tours and other great, age appropriate activities during your camp adventure. Some sessions are fully booked, so register today!

FULL DAY CAMPS 5–12 YEARS OLD 8:30 am–3:30 pm $250 per week ($225 FOTZ members) Spend the whole day at the Zoo learning about animals in a safe, fun accredited summer camp. These camps are split into three sections based upon age. Five and six year olds, seven to nine year olds and ten to twelves.

Adjust or Bust! Explore all the weird ways animals survive in their habitats. 5–6 years old June 6–10, June 27–July 1, July 25–29 7–9 years old June 6–10, June 27–July 1, July 25–29 10–12 years old June 27–July 1, July 25–29

Critter Classes Discover how scientists group animals and what it means. 5–6 years old June 13–17, July 11–15, August 1–5 7–9 years old June 13–17, July 11–15, August 1–5 10–12 years old June 13–17, August 1–5

LOCO-motion Discover all the crazy ways animals move 5–6 years old June 20–24, July 18–22, August 8–12 7–9 years old June 20–24, July 18–22, August 8–12 10–12 years old August 8–12

FULL DAY CAMPS 13–15 YEARS OLD 8:30 am–3:30 pm $250 per week ($225 FOTZ members)

Jr Zoologist: Research and Teach Explore what it means to be an Animal Researcher. June 6–10 and July 11–15

Jr Zoologist: Animal Care & Behavior Discover what it takes to keep zoo animals healthy and engaged. June 20–24 and July 18–22

SINGLE DAY CAMPS 5–12 YEARS OLD 8:30 am–3:30 pm $50 per day ($45 FOTZ members)

The Danger Zone — May 31 Discover the fiercest animals on the planet.

Nature’s Recyclers — June 1 Explore how animals do their part to help the planet.

Tail Tales — June 2 Explore the world of animal tales, myths and secrets.

HALF-DAY CAMPS 4–5 YEARS OLD 8:30–11:30 am $110 per week ($99 FOTZ members) Animal Opposites — June 6–10 What animals are the biggest, the smallest, the fastest, the slowest...?

Backyard Friends — June 27–July 1 Introduce your preschooler to animals they can find in their own backyards.

Swimming Fun — July 11–15 Join us as we highlight a different swimmer each day, from polar bears, tigers, whales and penguins…

Who’s Your Mommy? — July 18–22 Discover animal babies that come in all sort of shapes, sizes and types.

Happy Homes — August 8–12 We will visit the Arctic, Antarctic, Australia, Asia, and Africa as we discover all the cool places that animals call home.

ACT LIKE AN ANIMAL CAMP 5–10 years old 8:30 am–3:30 pm for two consecutive weeks Presented in partnership with Starlight Theatre, participants will be spending half their day at the Zoo and half with Starlight! So if you like animals and acting then come “Act like an Animal” with all of us this summer. Registration is handled by Starlight. June 13–17 and June 20–24 July 25–29 and August 1–5

ZooCamps

To Peru and BackPenguins in Peru? Yes, Humboldt penguins live in the fertile waters along the rocky coastlines and barren islands off of Peru’s shore. The Humboldt Current, one of the most nutrient rich currents, is found along Peru’s coast supporting one of the most diverse and productive marine ecosystems in the world. This diversity includes: marine otters, humpback whales, bottlenose dolphins, Guanay cormorants, Inca terns, South American sea lions,

and Humboldt penguins to just name a few. In January 2016, four employees of the Kansas City Zoo traveled to Peru to count Humboldt penguins and learn how organizations in Peru work to conserve marine species.

Why count Humboldt penguins? The Humboldt penguin (Spheniscus humboldti) census was started after a very bad El Nino struck the Pacific coast of South America between 1997 and 1998. After the first census they found only 2,000 to 3,000 wild Humboldt penguins in the country of Peru. Since the first census, the wild population of Humboldt’s has been slowly but steadily increasing, however there are still some years of population loss. Currently there are about 11,000 to 11,500 Humboldt penguins that call the Southern coast of Peru home. The data collected for this project over the past 17 years has been, and will continue to be, very beneficial for tracking the progress of this species. With nearly two decades of census counts, we can see how many different factors (El Nino’s and climate change for example) are impacting the wild Humboldt population.

How do you count Humboldt penguins? A project like this takes more than a village to keep going. The 2016 Humboldt Penguin Census project was led by Dr. Patricia McGill, Vice President of Education and Conservation at the Dallas Zoo and members of The Saint Louis Zoo. 2016 marked the first year the Kansas City Zoo has participated in the census. Over the years, Dr. McGill has developed many crucial relationships with numerous organizations along the coast of Peru and these relationships have helped shape the route of the census and

all of its 30 sites. The project begins in Lima, Peru and continues approximately 750 miles south along the Pacific coast to Ilo, Peru just north of the Chilean border.

The census takes place during the Humboldt penguins’ molting phase. When penguins molt they stay in colonies on the shore for about two weeks making it possible to count them. Knowing where the current year’s colonies are located, plus coordinating transportation and resources takes a variety of organizations and people to keep projects like this one successful. During the 2016 census, we worked directly with three non-profit organizations: The Asociacion Peruana para la Conservacion de la Naturaleza (APECO) that promotes awareness of biodiversity conservation and sustainable development in Peru, Areas Costeras y Recursos Marinos (ACOREMA), an organization committed to research,

conservation, and education of marine biodiversity, and the Punta San Juan Program as a managing partner of the Punta San Juan Consortium. Through this Consortium, the Kansas City Zoo supports ongoing research and education. The crew spent several days at the Punta San Juan Research Station (PSJ). Because of PSJ’s location to the Humboldt Current and over 100 years of federal protection by the Peruvian government, it is home to the largest colony of Humboldt penguins in Peru and boasts abundant biodiversity

Can’t make it to Peru? No problem! Come see the Humboldt penguins in the Helzberg Penguin Plaza at the Kansas City Zoo. Want to help support the Kansas City Zoo’s work with the Humboldt penguins? You can donate today, kansascityzoo.org/donate.

Kayla Campbell — Assistant Animal Supervisor and Sara Pittman — Community Outreach Manager

ACA certification means the Zoo’s camps have met or

exceeded industry standards of excellence in over 300 categories.

Zoo Docent Program

Docents deliver conservation messages that impact visitors and guide them to conservation action by educating and interpreting at Zoo exhibits. These messages

reflect a concern and respect for our natural world. Docents must be age 21 or older to apply.

Becoming a Zoo Docent requires:

• Intense training that can last up to one year

• 60 hours of direct contact with our guests each year

• High school diploma

• A materials and training fee of $100

For more information about our volunteer programs, please visit our website KansasCityZoo.org or email volunteers@fotzkc.org

Wake Up the AnimalsThere is no bad time to visit the Kansas City Zoo, but in the early morning hours when the heat and humidity are lowest the animals are at their most active. Join us as we open at 8 am all summer long and start your Zoo day by waking up the animals!

10 www.kansascityzoo.org 7Expeditions — 2nd Quarter 2016

How to Train Your FoxfaceMost animals in the Zoo aren’t able to tell the keepers when they feel ill so Zookeepers must pay close attention to behaviors, habits and other signals. With fish, it is even more difficult. However, the One Spot Foxface fish has been easier than most to monitor — after a bit of training that is. When a fish isn’t feeling well or has an injury, typically it needs to be caught in a net to better assess the situation.

In order to avoid the stress from being chased with a net, the One Spot Foxface fish were trained to allow Zookeepers to net them. By training the fish to come to a target buoy for food, Zookeepers were able to get the fish into the net when placing the net near or below them. In just 3 weeks’ time, the fish now are comfortable with the net. The hope is to never need to catch a fish, but if the time comes, it will be quick and the least stressful for both the fish and the Zookeeper.

Chimpanzee BabiesMilo, the 1 year old chimpanzee, is doing great! He’s been “adopted” by many of the females in the chimpanzee troop and they dote on him affectionately. Zookeepers note that he is being attended to patiently and being taught all the skills a youngster needs to learn by his extended family. Milo is also a very brazen little guy, often taking food from the adults for himself!

The chimpanzee infant, born April 1, is being cared for round-the-clock by Zookeepers and is doing well. Staff notes that she is gaining in both weight and strength. She’s eating more and more formula each day. While her future is guarded, we hope that in the coming months she may be reunited with the troop to develop her vital chimpanzee social skills. This process will take time and will be evaluated closely with her long-term wellbeing in mind.

Wild About GiraffesGiraffe appear to be everywhere, but with populations extinct in at least seven African countries and only approximately 90,000 remaining in the wild, it is time to draw attention to these forgotten giants. There is still a wide scope for research as little is known about their ecology, social networks and even taxonomy.

The Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF) is dedicated to securing a future for all giraffe in Africa and is the only NGO in the world that concentrates solely on the conservation and management of these mega fauna in the wild across Africa. Working across their range, GCF is collaborating with local and international partners to apply a wide range of conservation approaches.

In May, Julian Fennessey visited and spoke at the Kansas City Zoo. Julian is the Co-Chair — IUCN SSC Giraffe & Okapi Specialist Group and Co-Founder and Co-Director of the Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF) — the only international organization dedicated to securing the conservation of giraffe in the wild. Julian has more than eighteen years of experience in conservation and sustainable development throughout Africa and Australia from wildlife management, environmental consulting, community conservation and land management. As part of the Zoo’s Conservation plan, a donation of $2,000 was granted to Julian for his work to help giraffes survive in the wild.

Facts:

1. Giraffe’s tongues are purple. This is to prevent them from sun burning while eating all day.

2. They have special valves in the veins in their neck to keep blood pumping to their brain when they bend down to drink water. This is to keep them from getting “light headed” when they stand up.

3. They give birth standing up. If they were to lay down to give birth, it would crush the calf in the birthing canal.

4. Masai calves are born at about 150 pounds and approximately 6 feet tall.

5. Masai giraffe males are darker than the females, and they continue to darken throughout their entire life.

6. Giraffe gestation is about 16 months, almost twice as long as humans

7. Primary food in Africa is Acacia trees

8. The Zoo’s herd: 3 females and 3 males.

a. Mahali, Lizzy, and Makali — females

b. Hamisi, Murphy, and Ernie — males

Find Us OnlineKansas City Zoo recently launched a completely redesigned website with mobile users in mind. With the ever changing technology landscape, it was important for the Zoo to reach you where you are — and that, more and more, is on mobile devices. This new experience is easier to navigate, easier to purchase a ticket and a membership and has a wider array of information right at your fingertips. Visit us online at KansasCityZoo.org today!

KKC ZZKCKCKC ZZZZKC ZZZK OOZOWWWWWWWOWWOWOWWWOOWWWWWsHOOOHHHHHssssssssHOWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOssssssssHHHHHHHssHOOsss

KOOOO

KC ZOOsHOW

hehTheTheThe

Watch or DVR The KCZoo Show every Saturday at 10 am

on KCTV5!

SAT. SEPT. 24 2016

• Run THRU the zoo• Support an endangered species

• Collectible finisher medals

SPONSORED BY

REGISTER AT www.KansasCityZooRun.orgPRODUCED BY EVENT MIDWEST, LLC. | info@eventmidwest.com | 913-485-3254

2016 KANSAS CITY

ZOO RUN

8:30am - 4 Mile Walk/Run9:45am - 1 Mile Walk/Run

4 MILE &1 MILE

FlyerTall2016.indd 1 5/30/16 5:12 PM

MakenaName’s meaning: HappinessAge: 17, born January 24, 1999Weight: 202 poundsFavorite foods: fruit, bell peppers, carrots, corn and peanutsLeast favorite food: sweet potatoes, squashFavorite enrichment activity: Any and all kinds of manipulative

enrichment.Temperament: Very observant, playful with beddingSpecial training: Excels at training, currently working on more

behaviors such has flu shot and maternal behaviorsAppearance: She appears lankier (long arms and legs), smaller head, has some white

fingernails, and dark deep eyes.

MakariName’s meaning: BlessedAge: 28, born July 12, 1987Weight: 172 poundsFavorite foods: Her favorites are constantly

changing but currently she enjoys her bell peppers, and green beans.

Least favorite food: sweet potatoes, yellow squash

Favorite enrichment activity: keeper interaction, people watching, training

Temperament: Can be vocal, plays with Masika a lot

Medical or special training: Trained for voluntary ultrasounds for her pregnancy, maternal behaviors, presenting most body parts and prop behavior.

Appearance: Very round face, you can see the white of her eyes more than the others.

MasikaName’s meaning: Rainy SeasonAge: 1, born May 25, 2015Favorite Foods: Mom’s milk, soaked biscuits,

red bell peppers and cornLeast favorite food: yellow squashFavorite enrichment activity: playing in bedding,

sticks on exhibitTemperament: Plays hide and seek with mom,

stealing food from dad, testing her boundariesSpecial training: name recognition, stationing

RadiName’s meaning: ThunderAge: 33, born March 26, 1983Weight: 435 poundsFavorite food: broccoli, any fruitLeast favorite food: corn on the cob, green beansFavorite enrichment item: anything food relatedTemperament: Can be easily agitated (as any

silverback can), sometimes blows raspberries out his mouth when upset, often seen with legs kicked up on a rock or wall laying on his back, seems to “pose” on exhibit often; when happy and relaxed will have lower lip drooping down and tongue sticking out a bit

Special training: When Zookeepers request, he will present most body parts for examination and allows for cardiac ultrasounds

Appearance: Sliverback, twice as large as the females

tufaniName’s meaning: StormsAge: 24, born October 13, 1991 Weight: 210 poundsFavorite Food: She’s not picky, she likes everything!Least favorite food: She eats her bell peppers lastFavorite activity: Plastic barrels for sitting onTemperament: Just before feeding time she will

make a soft vocalization; we call it her “singing”Special training: She will present body parts

for exam.Appearance: Longer face and has the largest crown of the females