In May 1972, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park opened to the public, offering guests a chance to see animals in a new style of zoo - featuring large, open spaces and herds of animals. Since its founding, the Safari Park has been heavily involved in the preservation of critically endangered species like the Arabian oryx, African elephant, California condor and cheetah. To highlight both this significant anniversary and its conservation history, the Park is launching a special weekend of events highlighting Endangered Species Day (May 18). The event, presented by Living Social, offers a host of activities themed around species conservation.
"Being part of the national Endangered Species Day is an important part of our 40th birthday," said Bob McClure, director of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. "Launching our celebration on this important day helps us draw attention to a key component of the work we do here at the Park, saving species at risk of extinction."
Beginning on Friday, May 18, Joan Embery will launch the conservation - themed activities in a special ceremony. For the next three days (Friday, Saturday and Sunday), guests can enjoy fun activities for all ages to learn more about species conservation.
Special activities include animal meet-and-greets and talks with national TV spokesman and Safari Park ambassador, Rick Schwartz, an endangered species scavenger hunt and 40th Anniversary Africa Tram tours highlighting endangered species.
An additional highlight of the weekend will be the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Herbert Raffaele, chief of the division of international conservation, showcasing the U.S. Postal Service's fourth semipostal tiger stamp that benefits wildlife conservation. The Save Vanishing Species stamp will be available for sale at the Park. Proceeds of this sale go directly to conservation efforts for tigers and other species.
"The Save Vanishing Species stamp offers the public a convenient way to save some of the world's most endangered animals, from African and Asian rhinos to the mountain gorilla to the leatherback marine turtle," said Raffaele. "Whether purchased for postage or as collector's items, this stamp makes it possible for those who cherish wildlife to become a partner in a global conservation program."
Proceeds from the sale of the stamp will directly benefit the Wildlife Without Borders - Multinational Species Conservation Funds (MSCF), administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The MSCF program supports conservation efforts directed at certain endangered species worldwide considered to be of great importance to the American public and authorized by specific legislation. The five funds presently enacted by Congress are: the African Elephant Conservation Act of 1988; the Rhinoceros and Tiger Conservation Act of 1994; the Asian Elephant Conservation Act of 1998; the Great Apes Conservation Act of 2000; and the Marine Turtle Conservation Act of 2004.
"Since 1989, the Wildlife Without Borders - MSCF program has awarded more than 1,800 grants through its programs for international wildlife conservation providing critical funding to save these endangered species. It has also been a pleasure to support the San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research's international conservation efforts with our grants," said Raffaele.
The 7th annual national Endangered Species Day is May 18, 2012. Endangered Species Day was first held in 2006, following a U.S. Senate resolution. The purpose of Endangered Species day is to emphasize the importance of preserving the nation's rare, threatened, and endangered animal and plant species, highlight success stories of species recovery, and demonstrate everyday actions that people can take to help protect our disappearing wildlife and last remaining open spaces.
A project of the Endangered Species Coalition (The Endangered Species Coalition is a national network of hundreds of conservation, scientific, education, religious, sporting, outdoor recreation, business and community organizations working to protect our nation's disappearing wildlife and last remaining wild places.) Endangered Species Day 2012 is supported by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and National Park Service, along with a wide array of other organizations including National Audubon Society, San Diego Zoo Global, Sierra Club, National Wildlife Federation, Garden Clubs of America, National Association of Biology Teachers, National Science Teachers Association, Boy Scouts of America, Earth Day Network and the North American Association for Environmental Education.
Funding for wildlife conservation projects through Wildlife Without Borders is a $15.5 million suite of grants for wildlife conservation across the globe. For more information on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Wildlife Without Borders program, including detailed summaries of the 2011 grant projects for Latin America, the Caribbean, and other regions, visit www.fws.gov/international.
Follow Wildlife Without Borders on Twitter @USFWSInternatl and on Facebook, USFWS_InternationalAffairs.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov. Connect with our Facebook page, follow our tweets, watch our YouTube Channel, and download photos from our Flickr page.
Showing posts with label San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Show all posts
Showing posts with label San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Show all posts
Friday, April 20, 2012
Two Tigers Born, Mark Milestone for Conservation at San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Two Sumatran tigers were born on March 6 at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, marking the 24th and 25th birth of this critically endangered species since the Park opened in 1972.
Only about 400 Sumatran tigers are left worldwide. They are the smallest of the tiger species, but once grown, males can weigh up to 220 pounds. The Safari Park is currently home to six Sumatran tigers and is fund-raising to build a new, forested tiger haven that will offer up-close views of these fascinating felines and highlight conservation efforts for the species. For more information visit www.sandiegozoo.org/tigers.
The cubs are still too small to leave their den and are being attentively raised by their experienced mother, Delta. On Thursday, keepers gave Mom a short break to stretch her legs and get a little sun while they took the opportunity to socialize with the cubs. The 10- and 11-pound cubs are being desensitized to human touch in anticipation of vaccines and other necessary veterinary care.
The cubs are only beginning to move around the den on their own paws. Keepers expect them to be more agile and ready to explore the outdoors in July.
Tigers face many challenges in the wild, from loss of habitat to human-tiger conflict, but the biggest threat continues to be poaching. Tigers are killed by poachers, who illegally sell their body parts, mostly for folk remedies. People can help protect wild tigers by making smart consumer decisions to avoid products that harm tiger habitat and refusing to purchase items made from endangered wildlife.
To learn more about tiger conservation visit the Association of Zoos & Aquariums Species Survival Program website at www.mnzoo.org/tigerssp.
Only about 400 Sumatran tigers are left worldwide. They are the smallest of the tiger species, but once grown, males can weigh up to 220 pounds. The Safari Park is currently home to six Sumatran tigers and is fund-raising to build a new, forested tiger haven that will offer up-close views of these fascinating felines and highlight conservation efforts for the species. For more information visit www.sandiegozoo.org/tigers.
The cubs are still too small to leave their den and are being attentively raised by their experienced mother, Delta. On Thursday, keepers gave Mom a short break to stretch her legs and get a little sun while they took the opportunity to socialize with the cubs. The 10- and 11-pound cubs are being desensitized to human touch in anticipation of vaccines and other necessary veterinary care.
The cubs are only beginning to move around the den on their own paws. Keepers expect them to be more agile and ready to explore the outdoors in July.
Tigers face many challenges in the wild, from loss of habitat to human-tiger conflict, but the biggest threat continues to be poaching. Tigers are killed by poachers, who illegally sell their body parts, mostly for folk remedies. People can help protect wild tigers by making smart consumer decisions to avoid products that harm tiger habitat and refusing to purchase items made from endangered wildlife.
To learn more about tiger conservation visit the Association of Zoos & Aquariums Species Survival Program website at www.mnzoo.org/tigerssp.
Monday, April 2, 2012
Butterfly Jungle Opens Saturday at San Diego Zoo Safari Park
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park has added thousands of animals to its collection this week, and all of them are gorgeous-butterflies! Butterfly Jungle opens on Saturday, March 24, and runs through Sunday, April 15, 2012.
As part of Butterfly Jungle, the Safari Park has transformed the walk-through aviary of Hidden Jungle into a temporary home for 30 species of beautiful and exotic butterflies. In the aviary, thousands of delicate and colorful insects surround guests, fluttering lightly through the warm air to find flowers to feed on.
"Butterfly Jungle heralds the start of spring at the Safari Park," said Michael Mace, the Safari Park's curator of birds. "It's one of the most popular events we hold all year."
The delicate creatures not only enchant guests but make ecological sense. They come to the Safari Park in the pupae stage from Asia, Africa, and Central and South America. Mace has been to some of the butterfly farms in Central America and met with the farmers.
"If they weren't harvesting butterflies, many of these farmers would clear cut their land and plant crops or raise cattle," Mace said. "Instead, when they harvest butterflies, they leave the land in its pristine state."
People headed for Butterfly Jungle should wear bright-colored clothing to increase the chances of butterflies landing on their clothes or hats. When the insects do land, guests should enjoy the close encounter, but don't touch. And don't forget to pick up a timed Butterfly Jungle ticket! New this year, guests can use identification cards in the exhibit that will help them determine the names of many of the species.
Butterfly Jungle is included with admission to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
As part of Butterfly Jungle, the Safari Park has transformed the walk-through aviary of Hidden Jungle into a temporary home for 30 species of beautiful and exotic butterflies. In the aviary, thousands of delicate and colorful insects surround guests, fluttering lightly through the warm air to find flowers to feed on.
"Butterfly Jungle heralds the start of spring at the Safari Park," said Michael Mace, the Safari Park's curator of birds. "It's one of the most popular events we hold all year."
The delicate creatures not only enchant guests but make ecological sense. They come to the Safari Park in the pupae stage from Asia, Africa, and Central and South America. Mace has been to some of the butterfly farms in Central America and met with the farmers.
"If they weren't harvesting butterflies, many of these farmers would clear cut their land and plant crops or raise cattle," Mace said. "Instead, when they harvest butterflies, they leave the land in its pristine state."
People headed for Butterfly Jungle should wear bright-colored clothing to increase the chances of butterflies landing on their clothes or hats. When the insects do land, guests should enjoy the close encounter, but don't touch. And don't forget to pick up a timed Butterfly Jungle ticket! New this year, guests can use identification cards in the exhibit that will help them determine the names of many of the species.
Butterfly Jungle is included with admission to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Sun Shines on Debut of Rhino Calf at San Diego Zoo Safari Park
The female calf named Charlees, Hindi for Charlie, was born on Jan. 20 to first-time mother, Alta. The pair spent the first two months in a boma where Charlees could bond with her mother before the calf could meet the remainder of the seven-member, greater one-horned rhino herd.
The calf and mother came racing out of the boma, stopped to say hello to the other rhinos and continued trotting along the 40-acre Asian Savanna habitat where the calf saw other species for the first time including a large bovine called a gaur.
Once widespread in Southeast Asia, the greater one-horned rhinoceros is now found only in India and Nepal. Numbering approximately 2,800, this species is listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. In 2011, the poaching of wild rhinos increased exponentially, reducing populations of this species as well as black, white, Javan and Sumatran rhinoceros.
Charlees is the 61st greater one-horned rhino born at the Safari Park since 1975, making the Park the foremost breeding facility in the world for this species. The Park is also the first facility in the Western Hemisphere to have a successfully reproducing group of third- and fourth-generation rhinos of this species.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park Aflutter with Prep for Butterfly Jungle
Hundreds of plants full of succulent nectar are arriving in the Hidden Jungle aviary at the same time that hundreds of pupae are emerging into gorgeous butterflies in the San Diego Zoo Safari Park hatching room. This week, the Park is aflutter with preparations for one of the biggest events of the year: Butterfly Jungle, which opens Saturday, March 24, and runs through Sunday, April 15, 2012.
Once a year, guests at the Safari Park are enchanted and spellbound as thousands of butterflies flitter around them in the walk-through aviary. But all that magic doesn't happen without a lot of work. Eight months ago, the Safari Park staff began growing some of the plants that will sustain these fragile creatures. Hundreds of the 30 species of butterflies that will inhabit Hidden Jungle are emerging each day.
The Park's horticulture staff replaces 200 to 300 plants of a dozen varieties each week of the event to make sure the flowers are fresh and full of nectar for the butterflies. The plants need to be in the peak of their bloom before going into Butterfly Jungle, and the skill of choosing the plants at the perfect time has been handed down from horticulturist to horticulturist for years.
"The plants provide a wonderful nectar source for the butterflies that sustains their lives," said Cary Sharp, the Safari Park's curator of horticulture.
Butterfly Jungle is included with admission to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Once a year, guests at the Safari Park are enchanted and spellbound as thousands of butterflies flitter around them in the walk-through aviary. But all that magic doesn't happen without a lot of work. Eight months ago, the Safari Park staff began growing some of the plants that will sustain these fragile creatures. Hundreds of the 30 species of butterflies that will inhabit Hidden Jungle are emerging each day.
The Park's horticulture staff replaces 200 to 300 plants of a dozen varieties each week of the event to make sure the flowers are fresh and full of nectar for the butterflies. The plants need to be in the peak of their bloom before going into Butterfly Jungle, and the skill of choosing the plants at the perfect time has been handed down from horticulturist to horticulturist for years.
"The plants provide a wonderful nectar source for the butterflies that sustains their lives," said Cary Sharp, the Safari Park's curator of horticulture.
Butterfly Jungle is included with admission to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Butterfly Jungle at San Diego Zoo Safari Park: Be Charmed by Fragile Winged Wonders
What: Once a year, guests at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park are enchanted and spellbound as thousands of butterflies flitter around them in a walk-through aviary. Some may even land on guests' shoulders and heads!
When: March 24 to April 15, 2012.
Who: The 30 species of butterflies highlighted this year hail from Africa, Asia and Central and South America and include the zebra longwing, orange-barred tiger and Grecian shoemaker. Old favorites such as the monarch, giant swallowtail and blue morpho also will be charming guests.Not far from Butterfly Jungle, guests can check out more winged creatures at the Safari Park's new bat exhibit: a cloud of 13 Rodrigues fruit bats.
Extras: Special activities are scheduled throughout the Park during Butterfly Jungle. There will be butterfly-themed foods, such as cupcakes, and a pre-show at the daily Cheetah Run!
Cost: Butterfly Jungle is included with admission to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
When: March 24 to April 15, 2012.
Who: The 30 species of butterflies highlighted this year hail from Africa, Asia and Central and South America and include the zebra longwing, orange-barred tiger and Grecian shoemaker. Old favorites such as the monarch, giant swallowtail and blue morpho also will be charming guests.Not far from Butterfly Jungle, guests can check out more winged creatures at the Safari Park's new bat exhibit: a cloud of 13 Rodrigues fruit bats.
Extras: Special activities are scheduled throughout the Park during Butterfly Jungle. There will be butterfly-themed foods, such as cupcakes, and a pre-show at the daily Cheetah Run!
Cost: Butterfly Jungle is included with admission to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Friday, February 10, 2012
Summer Camps For Animal-loving Kids at San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Unforgettable experiences include a weeklong residential camp focused on exotic animal care for pre-teens,
and day camps on everything from animal senses to wildlife careers
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers unique weeklong summer camps in 2012 for youth ages 2 to 17. Each day, campers will have opportunities to meet animals up close. Younger children enjoy fun, hands-on activities that open the world of animals to them. Older campers feed rhinos and giraffes and create treats for other animals such as elephants and lions. All day camps have extended-day options. Summer camps run from June 25 to Aug. 17, 2012. And, for the first time in many years, the Safari Park also will be offering one-day camps for ages 6 through 17! For more information, parents and grandparents can call 619-718-3000 or go to www.sdzsafaripark.org and click on "education."
Some of the highlights of the weeklong camps include:
Work on the Wild Side (weeklong day camp for youth entering grades 9 through 12)
Teens can try wildlife careers on for size for five days by working on the wild side. The Work on the Wild Side camp pairs teens with a zoo keeper one day and an animal trainer or veterinarian the next, allowing them to shadow professionals in all areas of animal care and conservation. The camp includes a chance to hop on board a caravan truck for an opportunity to feed giraffes and rhinos and see if field research is their thing. Campers explore off-exhibit, behind-the-scenes animal areas to meet exotic animals up close. Work on the Wild Side at the Safari Park is a great way for teens to determine if a career in wildlife is right for them or to spend time with animals and the people who care for them. (Cost: $295 for members, $325 for nonmembers.)
Animal Care Boot Camp (weeklong overnight camp for youth entering grades 6 through 8)
Pre-teens get the inside scoop on animal care and conservation straight from the experts during this weeklong adventure. Among the exciting activities are meeting zookeepers and animal trainers to see firsthand what it takes to work with exotic animals, visiting the Park's state-of-the-art hospital to see veterinary medicine in action, and riding on a Caravan Safari truck deep into the heart of the Safari Park's enormous field enclosures. Campers will have an opportunity to try their hand at wildlife research as they monitor animal behavior and spend four nights camping at the Safari Park! (Cost: $879 for members, $909 for nonmembers.)
Colorful Creatures (weeklong day camp for children ages 2 and 3 along with a favorite adult)
Through play and interactive learning, tiny tots will be introduced to colorful creatures from around the world. Each day includes visits from animal ambassadors for up-close interaction, stories, crafts, songs, and games. From pink flamingos and blue-tongued skinks to spotted cheetahs and striped zebras, there's a ton of colorful animal fun for campers ages 2 to 3 along with their favorite grownup at Colorful Creatures Summer Camp! (Cost: $165 for member adult/child pair, $195 for nonmember adult/child pair, $95 for a second child.)
Other weeklong options:
Sensory Safari (ages 4 and 5), You Talkin' to Me? (children entering grades 1 and 2), Fact or Fiction (children entering grades 3 through 5), and Animal Athletes (youth entering grades 6 through 8)
One-Day options:
Fancy Feet, Feathers & Flight, Predators!, and Wild About Art (all for youth entering grades 1-12)
and day camps on everything from animal senses to wildlife careers
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers unique weeklong summer camps in 2012 for youth ages 2 to 17. Each day, campers will have opportunities to meet animals up close. Younger children enjoy fun, hands-on activities that open the world of animals to them. Older campers feed rhinos and giraffes and create treats for other animals such as elephants and lions. All day camps have extended-day options. Summer camps run from June 25 to Aug. 17, 2012. And, for the first time in many years, the Safari Park also will be offering one-day camps for ages 6 through 17! For more information, parents and grandparents can call 619-718-3000 or go to www.sdzsafaripark.org and click on "education."
Some of the highlights of the weeklong camps include:
Work on the Wild Side (weeklong day camp for youth entering grades 9 through 12)
Teens can try wildlife careers on for size for five days by working on the wild side. The Work on the Wild Side camp pairs teens with a zoo keeper one day and an animal trainer or veterinarian the next, allowing them to shadow professionals in all areas of animal care and conservation. The camp includes a chance to hop on board a caravan truck for an opportunity to feed giraffes and rhinos and see if field research is their thing. Campers explore off-exhibit, behind-the-scenes animal areas to meet exotic animals up close. Work on the Wild Side at the Safari Park is a great way for teens to determine if a career in wildlife is right for them or to spend time with animals and the people who care for them. (Cost: $295 for members, $325 for nonmembers.)
Animal Care Boot Camp (weeklong overnight camp for youth entering grades 6 through 8)
Pre-teens get the inside scoop on animal care and conservation straight from the experts during this weeklong adventure. Among the exciting activities are meeting zookeepers and animal trainers to see firsthand what it takes to work with exotic animals, visiting the Park's state-of-the-art hospital to see veterinary medicine in action, and riding on a Caravan Safari truck deep into the heart of the Safari Park's enormous field enclosures. Campers will have an opportunity to try their hand at wildlife research as they monitor animal behavior and spend four nights camping at the Safari Park! (Cost: $879 for members, $909 for nonmembers.)
Colorful Creatures (weeklong day camp for children ages 2 and 3 along with a favorite adult)
Through play and interactive learning, tiny tots will be introduced to colorful creatures from around the world. Each day includes visits from animal ambassadors for up-close interaction, stories, crafts, songs, and games. From pink flamingos and blue-tongued skinks to spotted cheetahs and striped zebras, there's a ton of colorful animal fun for campers ages 2 to 3 along with their favorite grownup at Colorful Creatures Summer Camp! (Cost: $165 for member adult/child pair, $195 for nonmember adult/child pair, $95 for a second child.)
Other weeklong options:
Sensory Safari (ages 4 and 5), You Talkin' to Me? (children entering grades 1 and 2), Fact or Fiction (children entering grades 3 through 5), and Animal Athletes (youth entering grades 6 through 8)
One-Day options:
Fancy Feet, Feathers & Flight, Predators!, and Wild About Art (all for youth entering grades 1-12)
Monday, January 30, 2012
San Diego Zoo Global Web Cam has First Public View of Condors Caring for Egg
With less than 400 California condors in existence, this endangered species is still an uncommon sight. Even rarer is the opportunity to watch condor parents incubate an egg, turning it gently with their beaks or squabbling over which one gets to incubate the 250-gram egg. That is, until now.
Visit the San Diego Zoo Global Wildlife Conservancy's new web camera, Condor Cam (www.sandiegozooglobal.org/video/condor_cam), to see Sisquoc and Shatash, the first condor pair ever to be observed by the public, incubating an egg on a live web camera set up in an off-exhibit area for condor care at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. For decades, field biologists, behaviorists and zookeepers were the only people able to witness a condor's parental behavior. This behavior has never been available for public viewing.
"For decades we've had the opportunity to work with this remarkable species behind the scenes," said Michael Mace, San Diego Zoo Safari Park curator of birds. "Beginning today, this rare experience is no longer for a select few. We invite you to watch, for the first time, this fantastic experience, the beginning cycle of a California condor's life, from the egg until it fledges."
Shatash, the female condor, laid the egg on Friday, Jan. 13. As a standard practice at the Safari Park, every condor egg laid is moved to an incubator for safe keeping, and the parents are given an artificial egg to incubate. The incubation behavior of the parents continues as it would with their own egg, with the male and female taking turns incubating the egg.
In the incubator, keepers monitor the egg for embryonic development. In the last few days of incubation, the artificial egg is removed from the nest and replaced with the fertile egg, allowing the parents to help the chick hatch and immediately begin their parental duties.
The chick is expected to hatch in early March after 52 to 54 days of incubation. Condor Cam viewers may witness rare moments such as the chick emerging from the egg with its white down feathers and a light pink, bald head and the parents tending its needs from feeding to clean up. When the chick is 5 to 6 months old, observers may also witness the chick's first flight! The chick continues to be tended to by its parents until it is approximately 1 year old. These are moments in the life an endangered species that very few people have ever seen.
Since the recovery program began in the 1980s, when there were only 22 condors left in the world, the Safari Park has hatched 171 chicks and released more than 80 birds in the wild. There are now more than 390 condors, half of which are flying free in California, Arizona and Baja California, Mexico.
The California Condor Recovery Program is implemented by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, zoos in the U.S. and Mexico, and U.S. and Mexican government agencies. Although listed by the federal government as an endangered species in 1967, the California condor population continued to decline, reaching a critical low of less than two dozen birds. In 1982, the condor breeding program was successfully established at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and Los Angeles Zoo. Today, two additional breeding centers are assisting with the recovery of the species at The Peregrine Fund's World Center for Birds of Prey and the Oregon Zoo. In addition, condors are part of an education program that allows guests at the San Diego Zoo, Santa Barbara Zoo and Mexico City's Chapultepec Zoo to see North America's largest bird up close.
The San Diego Zoo Global Wildlife Conservancy is dedicated to bringing endangered species back from the brink of extinction. The work of the Conservancy includes onsite wildlife conservation efforts at the San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, and international field programs in more than 35 countries. In addition, San Diego Zoo Global manages the Anne and Kenneth Griffin Reptile Conservation Center, the Frozen ZooTM and Native Seed Gene Bank, the Keauhou and Maui Hawaii Endangered Bird Conservation Centers, San Clemente Loggerhead Shrike Breeding Facility, Cocha Cashu Biological Research Station, the Desert Tortoise Conservation Center, and a 900-acre biodiversity reserve adjacent to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. The important conservation and science work of these entities is supported in part by The Foundation of the Zoological Society of San Diego.
Visit the San Diego Zoo Global Wildlife Conservancy's new web camera, Condor Cam (www.sandiegozooglobal.org/video/condor_cam), to see Sisquoc and Shatash, the first condor pair ever to be observed by the public, incubating an egg on a live web camera set up in an off-exhibit area for condor care at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. For decades, field biologists, behaviorists and zookeepers were the only people able to witness a condor's parental behavior. This behavior has never been available for public viewing.
"For decades we've had the opportunity to work with this remarkable species behind the scenes," said Michael Mace, San Diego Zoo Safari Park curator of birds. "Beginning today, this rare experience is no longer for a select few. We invite you to watch, for the first time, this fantastic experience, the beginning cycle of a California condor's life, from the egg until it fledges."
Shatash, the female condor, laid the egg on Friday, Jan. 13. As a standard practice at the Safari Park, every condor egg laid is moved to an incubator for safe keeping, and the parents are given an artificial egg to incubate. The incubation behavior of the parents continues as it would with their own egg, with the male and female taking turns incubating the egg.
In the incubator, keepers monitor the egg for embryonic development. In the last few days of incubation, the artificial egg is removed from the nest and replaced with the fertile egg, allowing the parents to help the chick hatch and immediately begin their parental duties.
The chick is expected to hatch in early March after 52 to 54 days of incubation. Condor Cam viewers may witness rare moments such as the chick emerging from the egg with its white down feathers and a light pink, bald head and the parents tending its needs from feeding to clean up. When the chick is 5 to 6 months old, observers may also witness the chick's first flight! The chick continues to be tended to by its parents until it is approximately 1 year old. These are moments in the life an endangered species that very few people have ever seen.
Since the recovery program began in the 1980s, when there were only 22 condors left in the world, the Safari Park has hatched 171 chicks and released more than 80 birds in the wild. There are now more than 390 condors, half of which are flying free in California, Arizona and Baja California, Mexico.
The California Condor Recovery Program is implemented by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, zoos in the U.S. and Mexico, and U.S. and Mexican government agencies. Although listed by the federal government as an endangered species in 1967, the California condor population continued to decline, reaching a critical low of less than two dozen birds. In 1982, the condor breeding program was successfully established at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and Los Angeles Zoo. Today, two additional breeding centers are assisting with the recovery of the species at The Peregrine Fund's World Center for Birds of Prey and the Oregon Zoo. In addition, condors are part of an education program that allows guests at the San Diego Zoo, Santa Barbara Zoo and Mexico City's Chapultepec Zoo to see North America's largest bird up close.
The San Diego Zoo Global Wildlife Conservancy is dedicated to bringing endangered species back from the brink of extinction. The work of the Conservancy includes onsite wildlife conservation efforts at the San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, and international field programs in more than 35 countries. In addition, San Diego Zoo Global manages the Anne and Kenneth Griffin Reptile Conservation Center, the Frozen ZooTM and Native Seed Gene Bank, the Keauhou and Maui Hawaii Endangered Bird Conservation Centers, San Clemente Loggerhead Shrike Breeding Facility, Cocha Cashu Biological Research Station, the Desert Tortoise Conservation Center, and a 900-acre biodiversity reserve adjacent to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. The important conservation and science work of these entities is supported in part by The Foundation of the Zoological Society of San Diego.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
San Diego Zoo Safari Park Invites Children to "Race" a Cheetah During October Kids Free Events
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park wants kids to lace up their running shoes when they visit during "Kids Free" in October. Each day at 3:30 p.m., weather permitting, one child at Shiley's Cheetah Run will be given the chance to see how their running speed compares to the fastest land mammal. The young volunteer will run before the cheetah takes to the track and will be timed by the animal trainers. Participants will wear a special racing bib they can keep as a memento of their experience.
Kids Free celebrates the founding of the San Diego Zoo in October 1916 and offers children 11 years old and younger free admission to the Zoo and the Park every day of October.
Cheetah Run gives Park guests the opportunity to witness the world's fastest land mammal do what it does best - run! The cheetah runs off-leash, chasing a mechanical lure down a 330-foot track, showcasing its ability to go from 0 to 70 mph in just 4 seconds. Guests can line up along the track to be just feet away from this amazing exhibition of speed.
Allowing kids to "race" at Cheetah Run is just one of many special experiences planned for "Kids Free" at the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park. The San Diego Zoo was founded in October 1916 and "Kids Free" honors this historic event. The Zoo has celebrated "Kids Free" in October for 26 years; this is the fourth year the program is offered at the Park.
Both the Zoo and the Park offer the opportunity to observe amazing creatures, experience a fun day with family and learn what needs to be done to save animals from extinction. Both locations are offering visitors the chance to complete the "101 Things to Do" at the Zoo and the Park; the booklet is available for download at www.sandiegozoo.org/kidsfree or can be picked up during a Zoo or Park visit on the weekends.
Weekend visitors to the Zoo and the Park will experience even more kid-friendly activities with additional animal meet-and-greets, keeper talks and costumed character walk-arounds. At the Zoo in Balboa Park, Dr. Zoolittle will host Natures' Tricks, a show about how animals survive and adapt to their surroundings in the wild. At the Safari Park in Escondido, guests can take a seat at Discovery Station for "Tiger Tales" storytelling - ideal for ages two to five.
Kids Free is offered during the entire month of October. The Zoo and the Park are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but for opening weekend only, the Zoo will be open until 6 p.m. on October 1 and 2. Children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by a paid adult during their visit to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Kids Free celebrates the founding of the San Diego Zoo in October 1916 and offers children 11 years old and younger free admission to the Zoo and the Park every day of October.
Cheetah Run gives Park guests the opportunity to witness the world's fastest land mammal do what it does best - run! The cheetah runs off-leash, chasing a mechanical lure down a 330-foot track, showcasing its ability to go from 0 to 70 mph in just 4 seconds. Guests can line up along the track to be just feet away from this amazing exhibition of speed.
Allowing kids to "race" at Cheetah Run is just one of many special experiences planned for "Kids Free" at the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park. The San Diego Zoo was founded in October 1916 and "Kids Free" honors this historic event. The Zoo has celebrated "Kids Free" in October for 26 years; this is the fourth year the program is offered at the Park.
Both the Zoo and the Park offer the opportunity to observe amazing creatures, experience a fun day with family and learn what needs to be done to save animals from extinction. Both locations are offering visitors the chance to complete the "101 Things to Do" at the Zoo and the Park; the booklet is available for download at www.sandiegozoo.org/kidsfree or can be picked up during a Zoo or Park visit on the weekends.
Weekend visitors to the Zoo and the Park will experience even more kid-friendly activities with additional animal meet-and-greets, keeper talks and costumed character walk-arounds. At the Zoo in Balboa Park, Dr. Zoolittle will host Natures' Tricks, a show about how animals survive and adapt to their surroundings in the wild. At the Safari Park in Escondido, guests can take a seat at Discovery Station for "Tiger Tales" storytelling - ideal for ages two to five.
Kids Free is offered during the entire month of October. The Zoo and the Park are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but for opening weekend only, the Zoo will be open until 6 p.m. on October 1 and 2. Children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by a paid adult during their visit to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Friday, July 29, 2011
WHOLE NEW LEVEL OF CUTENESS TAKES HOLD IN SAN DIEGO ZOO SAFARI PARK PETTING KRAAL
Kids Love Meeting New Kids
The Petting Kraal at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park got a whole new feel this week when it re-opened with new, cuddly animals for children to enjoy. With three kinds of small goats, the Petting Kraal has become a place where kids meet kids!
There are now six Boer goats, nine pygmy goats and two Nubian goats in the Petting Kraal. Having domesticated animals in the Petting Kraal, rather than the Eld's deer, Persian gazelle and blackbuck antelope, allows children to be more hands-on with the animals. At least three more pygmy goats that were born on July 14 will join the fun in the next few months.
"Children who come to the Petting Kraal at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park will be able to feed and brush the goats," said Danielle Leffler, a Safari Park mammal keeper. "The goats all have very distinct personalities and can be pretty goofy at times."
The deer and gazelle that were in the Petting Kraal have new homes at the Park. The seven Eld's deer live in the Central African field exhibit and one of the Persian gazelles is in the 60-acre Asian Plains field exhibit. The blackbuck antelope and the other Persian gazelle are now nannies to baby animals in the Park's nursery. The change of animals was made after the Petting Kraal shrank slightly to accommodate a larger rhino nursery.
The Petting Kraal is open from 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. daily at the Park. Additionally, children will love the many activities and performances during the Safari Park's Summer Safari: African Extravaganza, which is being held through Aug. 21. During the celebration, the Park is open until 7 each night. Children can create beaded necklaces and decorate safari hats in the African Activities Plaza with African artisans. Also, from 4 to 7 p.m. each day, guests will have an opportunity to make their own African music. Ethiopian pole climbers spin and leap. Tanzanian and Kenyan acrobats turn into human pyramids and go very, very low with the limbo. A singer from Guyana belts out beautiful music, and a South African drummer beats an enchanting rhythm.
The Petting Kraal at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park got a whole new feel this week when it re-opened with new, cuddly animals for children to enjoy. With three kinds of small goats, the Petting Kraal has become a place where kids meet kids!
There are now six Boer goats, nine pygmy goats and two Nubian goats in the Petting Kraal. Having domesticated animals in the Petting Kraal, rather than the Eld's deer, Persian gazelle and blackbuck antelope, allows children to be more hands-on with the animals. At least three more pygmy goats that were born on July 14 will join the fun in the next few months.
"Children who come to the Petting Kraal at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park will be able to feed and brush the goats," said Danielle Leffler, a Safari Park mammal keeper. "The goats all have very distinct personalities and can be pretty goofy at times."
The deer and gazelle that were in the Petting Kraal have new homes at the Park. The seven Eld's deer live in the Central African field exhibit and one of the Persian gazelles is in the 60-acre Asian Plains field exhibit. The blackbuck antelope and the other Persian gazelle are now nannies to baby animals in the Park's nursery. The change of animals was made after the Petting Kraal shrank slightly to accommodate a larger rhino nursery.
The Petting Kraal is open from 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. daily at the Park. Additionally, children will love the many activities and performances during the Safari Park's Summer Safari: African Extravaganza, which is being held through Aug. 21. During the celebration, the Park is open until 7 each night. Children can create beaded necklaces and decorate safari hats in the African Activities Plaza with African artisans. Also, from 4 to 7 p.m. each day, guests will have an opportunity to make their own African music. Ethiopian pole climbers spin and leap. Tanzanian and Kenyan acrobats turn into human pyramids and go very, very low with the limbo. A singer from Guyana belts out beautiful music, and a South African drummer beats an enchanting rhythm.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
FASTEST FEATURE AT SAN DIEGO ZOO SAFARI PARK DEBUTS FOR SUMMER SAFARI: AFRICA EXTRAVAGANZA
FASTEST FEATURE AT SAN DIEGO ZOO SAFARI PARK DEBUTS FOR
SUMMER SAFARI: AFRICA EXTRAVAGANZA
Shiley's Cheetah Run, Safari Park Summer Hours Begin July 2
Don't blink, or you just might miss it. Starting Saturday, July 2, the fastest land animal will be showing off its speed every day at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Shiley's Cheetah Run shows Safari Park guests the cheetah's astounding speed - 0 to 70 mph in just 4 seconds. Cheetah Run is part of the Park's extended-hours program, Summer Safari: African Extravaganza, which runs from July 2 to Aug. 21, during which the Park is open until 7 p.m.
Located near Lion Camp, Cheetah Run will take place at 5 p.m. daily, weather permitting, and is included with Park admission and membership. Cheetah Run is made possible through the generosity of local philanthropist Darlene Shiley and is named in honor of Shiley, one of the participating cheetahs.
There are three cheetahs who are trained to run off leash for Cheetah Run: Amara, Shiley and Johari. Each day, one of these cheetahs will run down a 330-foot straight track while chasing a mechanical lure attached to its favorite toy. Guests, who could be as close as 7 feet away, may feel the wind as the cheetah passes by.
"You are so close to the cheetahs here at the Safari Park," said Janet Rose-Hinostroza, animal training manager for the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. "You can hear them breathing; you can hear their claws ripping the sod as they go past you. It is an incredible, exhilarating experience."
In addition to Cheetah Run, this summer the Park features acrobats, a storyteller and an African chief as part of its African Extravaganza. The celebration begins as soon as visitors step onto the Park's front plaza, with the beat of an African drum setting the rhythm for adventure. Inside, Chief Kahle will provide a warm welcome, pose for pictures and hand each child their very own safari hat. Abantwana, the storyteller, will spin tales of African wildlife while guests play instruments that help the stories unfold.
Entertainers who dance, pole climb and hula hoop will lead guests to a high-energy show by the African Acrobats of Tanzania, which includes juggling, contortionism and amazing balancing acts. Guests can join African artisans to create beaded necklaces or decorate safari hats in the African Activities Plaza. From 4 to 7 p.m. each day, guests will have an opportunity to make African music. Robert the Zebra, a digitally animated equine who jokes with children, and interactive animal puppets are sure to bring smiles to young faces.
SUMMER SAFARI: AFRICA EXTRAVAGANZA
Shiley's Cheetah Run, Safari Park Summer Hours Begin July 2
Don't blink, or you just might miss it. Starting Saturday, July 2, the fastest land animal will be showing off its speed every day at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Shiley's Cheetah Run shows Safari Park guests the cheetah's astounding speed - 0 to 70 mph in just 4 seconds. Cheetah Run is part of the Park's extended-hours program, Summer Safari: African Extravaganza, which runs from July 2 to Aug. 21, during which the Park is open until 7 p.m.
Located near Lion Camp, Cheetah Run will take place at 5 p.m. daily, weather permitting, and is included with Park admission and membership. Cheetah Run is made possible through the generosity of local philanthropist Darlene Shiley and is named in honor of Shiley, one of the participating cheetahs.
There are three cheetahs who are trained to run off leash for Cheetah Run: Amara, Shiley and Johari. Each day, one of these cheetahs will run down a 330-foot straight track while chasing a mechanical lure attached to its favorite toy. Guests, who could be as close as 7 feet away, may feel the wind as the cheetah passes by.
"You are so close to the cheetahs here at the Safari Park," said Janet Rose-Hinostroza, animal training manager for the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. "You can hear them breathing; you can hear their claws ripping the sod as they go past you. It is an incredible, exhilarating experience."
In addition to Cheetah Run, this summer the Park features acrobats, a storyteller and an African chief as part of its African Extravaganza. The celebration begins as soon as visitors step onto the Park's front plaza, with the beat of an African drum setting the rhythm for adventure. Inside, Chief Kahle will provide a warm welcome, pose for pictures and hand each child their very own safari hat. Abantwana, the storyteller, will spin tales of African wildlife while guests play instruments that help the stories unfold.
Entertainers who dance, pole climb and hula hoop will lead guests to a high-energy show by the African Acrobats of Tanzania, which includes juggling, contortionism and amazing balancing acts. Guests can join African artisans to create beaded necklaces or decorate safari hats in the African Activities Plaza. From 4 to 7 p.m. each day, guests will have an opportunity to make African music. Robert the Zebra, a digitally animated equine who jokes with children, and interactive animal puppets are sure to bring smiles to young faces.
Friday, May 20, 2011
SCIENTISTS STUDYING SONGBIRD AT SAN DIEGO ZOO SAFARI PARK
SAN PASQUAL VALLEY, CA - On the 900-acre Biodiversity Preserve at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, away from tourists, a group of scientists listen intently for the distinctive song of the cactus wren, a call that sounds like a sewing machine. In the name of conservation, they keep an eye on nests and wait for a bird to surface.
U.S. Geological Survey, Nature Reserve of Orange County and San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research scientists were at the Safari Park as part of an ongoing study focusing on habitat restoration and understanding population dynamics of a species protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and is listed as a California Species of Special Concern. The research conducted at the Safari Park will contribute to an ongoing USGS effort investigating how habitat fragmentation impacts wildlife populations throughout Southern California and Nevada.
"Our goal in this research is to determine how connected cactus wren populations are to one another and to be able to use this information to inform cactus wren habitat restoration projects," said Barbara Kus, Ph.D., U.S. Geological Survey Western Ecological Research Center research ecologist. "We can then determine where additional connectivity is needed and make recommendations to guide cactus-planting scenarios that will eventually connect patches."
In 2007, the Witch Creek wildfire that devastated San Diego County also wreaked havoc on the coastal cactus wren's habitat. At the Safari Park alone, 600 acres burned, reducing the available cactus scrub, a rare habitat this wren species relies on year round. In Southern California the cactus wren is declining and becoming isolated due to urbanization and habitat loss.
On Monday, a biologist's hands swiftly affixed tiny metal bands on a cactus wren while feathers were collected for a genetic analysis of the population. Understanding the biology and habitat requirements of this species is an important part of ensuring proper habitat restoration and the cactus wren's ability to rebound.
San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research scientists have been meticulously restoring cactus scrub at the Safari Park Biodiversity Preserve while monitoring the bird's abundance, distribution, survivorship and productivity. The natural recovery of the cactus scrub habitat has been very slow and in some areas has been further hampered by the invasion of nonnative grasses.
"Cactus wrens only make nests in prickly pear or cholla catcus greater than 3 feet in height. Without it, they cannot survive," said Bryan Endress, Ph.D., San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research director of Applied Animal Ecology. "Native cactus and coastal sage scrub habitat is not only beneficial to cactus wrens but also supports a wide range of other native wildlife, and this is one of the reasons San Diego County is globally known as a biodiversity hotspot."
The multi-disciplinary and multi-agency study's goal is to add to the knowledge of this species before it becomes endangered. Little is known about the coastal cactus wren and its habitat needs or best practices for restoring cactus scrub habitat.
"Through this collaborative effort, we hope to determine the needs and requirements of this species to aid in its recovery," said Lisa Nordstrom, Ph.D., San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research scientist. "We are also monitoring cactus wrens at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park Biodiversity Preserve to confirm that our restoration efforts are having a positive effect on their population."
The San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research is dedicated to generating, sharing and applying scientific knowledge vital to the conservation of animals, plants and habitats worldwide. The work of the Institute includes onsite research efforts at the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park (historically referred to as Wild Animal Park), laboratory work at the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Center for Conservation Research, and international field programs involving more than 235 researchers working in 35 countries. In addition to the Beckman Center for Conservation Research, the Institute also operates the Anne and Kenneth Griffin Reptile Conservation Center, the Frozen Zoo(TM) and Native Seed Gene Bank, the Keauhou and Maui Hawaiian Bird Conservation Centers, Cocha Cashu Biological Research Station, and the Desert Tortoise Conservation Center. The Zoo also manages the 1,800-acre San Diego Zoo Safari Park, which includes a 900-acre biodiversity reserve, and the San Diego Zoo. The important conservation and science work of these entities is supported in part by The Foundation of the Zoological Society of San Diego.
U.S. Geological Survey, Nature Reserve of Orange County and San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research scientists were at the Safari Park as part of an ongoing study focusing on habitat restoration and understanding population dynamics of a species protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and is listed as a California Species of Special Concern. The research conducted at the Safari Park will contribute to an ongoing USGS effort investigating how habitat fragmentation impacts wildlife populations throughout Southern California and Nevada.
"Our goal in this research is to determine how connected cactus wren populations are to one another and to be able to use this information to inform cactus wren habitat restoration projects," said Barbara Kus, Ph.D., U.S. Geological Survey Western Ecological Research Center research ecologist. "We can then determine where additional connectivity is needed and make recommendations to guide cactus-planting scenarios that will eventually connect patches."
In 2007, the Witch Creek wildfire that devastated San Diego County also wreaked havoc on the coastal cactus wren's habitat. At the Safari Park alone, 600 acres burned, reducing the available cactus scrub, a rare habitat this wren species relies on year round. In Southern California the cactus wren is declining and becoming isolated due to urbanization and habitat loss.
On Monday, a biologist's hands swiftly affixed tiny metal bands on a cactus wren while feathers were collected for a genetic analysis of the population. Understanding the biology and habitat requirements of this species is an important part of ensuring proper habitat restoration and the cactus wren's ability to rebound.
San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research scientists have been meticulously restoring cactus scrub at the Safari Park Biodiversity Preserve while monitoring the bird's abundance, distribution, survivorship and productivity. The natural recovery of the cactus scrub habitat has been very slow and in some areas has been further hampered by the invasion of nonnative grasses.
"Cactus wrens only make nests in prickly pear or cholla catcus greater than 3 feet in height. Without it, they cannot survive," said Bryan Endress, Ph.D., San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research director of Applied Animal Ecology. "Native cactus and coastal sage scrub habitat is not only beneficial to cactus wrens but also supports a wide range of other native wildlife, and this is one of the reasons San Diego County is globally known as a biodiversity hotspot."
The multi-disciplinary and multi-agency study's goal is to add to the knowledge of this species before it becomes endangered. Little is known about the coastal cactus wren and its habitat needs or best practices for restoring cactus scrub habitat.
"Through this collaborative effort, we hope to determine the needs and requirements of this species to aid in its recovery," said Lisa Nordstrom, Ph.D., San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research scientist. "We are also monitoring cactus wrens at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park Biodiversity Preserve to confirm that our restoration efforts are having a positive effect on their population."
The San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research is dedicated to generating, sharing and applying scientific knowledge vital to the conservation of animals, plants and habitats worldwide. The work of the Institute includes onsite research efforts at the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park (historically referred to as Wild Animal Park), laboratory work at the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Center for Conservation Research, and international field programs involving more than 235 researchers working in 35 countries. In addition to the Beckman Center for Conservation Research, the Institute also operates the Anne and Kenneth Griffin Reptile Conservation Center, the Frozen Zoo(TM) and Native Seed Gene Bank, the Keauhou and Maui Hawaiian Bird Conservation Centers, Cocha Cashu Biological Research Station, and the Desert Tortoise Conservation Center. The Zoo also manages the 1,800-acre San Diego Zoo Safari Park, which includes a 900-acre biodiversity reserve, and the San Diego Zoo. The important conservation and science work of these entities is supported in part by The Foundation of the Zoological Society of San Diego.
Friday, April 15, 2011
SAN DIEGO ZOO SAFARI PARK'S POPULAR BUTTERFLY JUNGLE IS BACK
Sarah Jenkins, San Diego Zoo Safari Park keeper, released hundreds of butterflies as they emerged from pupae on Thursday in preparation for the Park's annual springtime event, Butterfly Jungle presented by Baskin-Robbins. This year, the annual springtime event is one week longer, running April 9 through May 8.
Once immersed in Butterfly Jungle, move slowly, allowing thousands of vibrant wings to flap gently past or perhaps land on a shoulder or head. Wear bright colors to attract butterflies. Approximately 40 species of butterflies and 15 species of African birds will flutter about in the Hidden Jungle aviary.
Along the journey to metamorphosis, watch for an opportunity to meet other invertebrates up close including hissing cockroaches, praying mantises and lady bugs. Find the emperor scorpion, back by popular demand, before entering Butterfly Jungle. Try on wings, antennae, and compound eyes and taste "butterfly nectar" at the "What's it Like to Be A Butterfly?" station.
Butterfly Jungle is included with admission. Admission is $40 for adults and $30 for children ages 3 to 11. Children 2 and younger are admitted free.
Once immersed in Butterfly Jungle, move slowly, allowing thousands of vibrant wings to flap gently past or perhaps land on a shoulder or head. Wear bright colors to attract butterflies. Approximately 40 species of butterflies and 15 species of African birds will flutter about in the Hidden Jungle aviary.
Along the journey to metamorphosis, watch for an opportunity to meet other invertebrates up close including hissing cockroaches, praying mantises and lady bugs. Find the emperor scorpion, back by popular demand, before entering Butterfly Jungle. Try on wings, antennae, and compound eyes and taste "butterfly nectar" at the "What's it Like to Be A Butterfly?" station.
Butterfly Jungle is included with admission. Admission is $40 for adults and $30 for children ages 3 to 11. Children 2 and younger are admitted free.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
CHANGE IS IN THE WIND FOR CALIFORNIA CONDOR CONSERVATION
CHANGE IS IN THE WIND FOR CALIFORNIA CONDOR CONSERVATION
First Two Chicks of the 2011 Season Hatch at San Diego Zoo Safari Park
An exceptional sighting was caught on video at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park as a California condor chick hatched last week with the assistance of its parents. In years past, the practice of the California Condor Recovery Program was to hand raise the first egg laid by a condor pair, but the conservation program's goals are changing. Today, more condor eggs laid are being left with the parents so they can raise and mentor the chicks.
Two chicks have already hatched at the Safari Park this year, on March 14 and 16 respectively, and each is being raised by its parents. Two other eggs are in incubators. Whether raised by parents or by zookeepers using puppets, all condor chicks are candidates for release in Arizona, California or Baja California, Mexico.
Since the recovery program began in the 1980s - when there were only about 22 condors left in the world - the Park has hatched 165 chicks and released 80 birds in the wild. There are now more than 370 condors, and the number is growing as eggs are laid and hatched at the breeding centers at the Safari Park, Los Angeles Zoo, World Center for Birds of Prey, and Oregon Zoo. Eggs have been laid in the wild as well.
In addition, in 2011 the breeding centers are exchanging eggs to increase the gene pool of each population. One week ago, two condors that hatched and fledged at the Safari Park last year were sent to Arizona for release.
A California condor egg hatches after 56 days of incubation. The emerging chick hatches with white down and a light pink bald head. When the chick fledges at 6 months old, it is fully grown with black-and-white feathers and a black head. When it reaches maturity, the bird's head turns pink once again.
The California Condor Recovery Program is implemented by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, zoos in the U.S. and Mexico, and U.S. and Mexican government agencies. Although listed by the federal government as an endangered species in 1967, the California condor population continued to decline, reaching a critical low of less than two dozen birds. In 1982, the condor breeding program was successfully established at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and Los Angeles Zoo. Today, two additional breeding centers are assisting with the recovery of the species at The Peregrine Fund's World Center for Birds of Prey and the Oregon Zoo. In addition, condors are part of an education program that allows guests at the San Diego Zoo, Santa Barbara Zoo and Mexico City's Chapultepec Zoo to see North America's largest bird up close.
First Two Chicks of the 2011 Season Hatch at San Diego Zoo Safari Park
An exceptional sighting was caught on video at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park as a California condor chick hatched last week with the assistance of its parents. In years past, the practice of the California Condor Recovery Program was to hand raise the first egg laid by a condor pair, but the conservation program's goals are changing. Today, more condor eggs laid are being left with the parents so they can raise and mentor the chicks.
Two chicks have already hatched at the Safari Park this year, on March 14 and 16 respectively, and each is being raised by its parents. Two other eggs are in incubators. Whether raised by parents or by zookeepers using puppets, all condor chicks are candidates for release in Arizona, California or Baja California, Mexico.
Since the recovery program began in the 1980s - when there were only about 22 condors left in the world - the Park has hatched 165 chicks and released 80 birds in the wild. There are now more than 370 condors, and the number is growing as eggs are laid and hatched at the breeding centers at the Safari Park, Los Angeles Zoo, World Center for Birds of Prey, and Oregon Zoo. Eggs have been laid in the wild as well.
In addition, in 2011 the breeding centers are exchanging eggs to increase the gene pool of each population. One week ago, two condors that hatched and fledged at the Safari Park last year were sent to Arizona for release.
A California condor egg hatches after 56 days of incubation. The emerging chick hatches with white down and a light pink bald head. When the chick fledges at 6 months old, it is fully grown with black-and-white feathers and a black head. When it reaches maturity, the bird's head turns pink once again.
The California Condor Recovery Program is implemented by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, zoos in the U.S. and Mexico, and U.S. and Mexican government agencies. Although listed by the federal government as an endangered species in 1967, the California condor population continued to decline, reaching a critical low of less than two dozen birds. In 1982, the condor breeding program was successfully established at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and Los Angeles Zoo. Today, two additional breeding centers are assisting with the recovery of the species at The Peregrine Fund's World Center for Birds of Prey and the Oregon Zoo. In addition, condors are part of an education program that allows guests at the San Diego Zoo, Santa Barbara Zoo and Mexico City's Chapultepec Zoo to see North America's largest bird up close.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
PRESS RELEASE FLIGHT OF THE CONDOR LEADS BIRDS FROM U.S. TO COLOMBIA
On Wednesday, the largest bird of the Americas took flight aboard a plane bound from Miami to Bogotá, Colombia. Two juvenile Andean condors will soon spread their 10-foot wing span and soar above the clouds as part of a successful international collaborative program that has been reintroducing this endangered species for two decades.
One bird hatched at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, the other at the Denver Zoo. The pair was being prepared for their release into the wild while at the White Oak Conservation Center in Florida. After their arrival in Colombia, the birds will spend approximately one month in an acclimation aviary before their release into a wilderness area 50 miles northeast of Bogotá.
"It's an incredible experience to see endangered animals that were hatched through conservation programs in zoos, like the Andean condor, released and flying among the mountaintops in their native habitat," said Michael Mace, curator of birds for the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and coordinator of the condors' trip to Colombia. "One of the most rewarding aspects for zoos and conservation organizations is to be able to participate in reintroduction programs to aid in re-establishing a species in the wild for hopefully generations into the future."
The two condors will be received by CORPOBOYACA, a natural resources management agency, on behalf of Parques Nacionales de Colombia, with the help of the Colombian federal agency Ministerio de Medioambiente de Colombia and the private organization Fundación Neotropical.
"Denver Zoo is very excited to be a part of this reintroduction process and we're happy to contribute to the recovery of this magnificent species in the wild," says John Azua, Denver Zoo curator of birds. "This is a very important project and we want to continue to see the numbers of these amazing birds climb. We also appreciate being able to work with local agencies to secure a better world for animals through human understanding."
The Andean condor program is international in scope with assistance from federal and local agencies in North and South America. Forty organizations within the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) have assisted and 18 zoos in the United States have hatched condors that have been sent to South America as part of this conservation program. Conservation centers play an important role in rearing and preparing animals for release projects.
"For the past two years the two condors have been living in a large flight enclosure, receiving natural prey diets, and were isolated from contact with people, all important factors in creating excellent candidates for the release program in South America," said Mike Taylor, avian collection manager at White Oak Conservation Center.
For more than 20 years, the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park have been working with South American government agencies and conservation organizations to send Andean condors to both Colombia and Venezuela. Including these two birds, 82 Andean condors have been sent to these two countries. The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park have sent 31 Andean condors to South America over the last 16 years, while this is Denver Zoo's first bird sent to South America.
This species of vulture is found throughout the Andes Mountains from Colombia to Tierra del Fuego, Argentina. Primarily, the Andean condor lives in high mountainous regions and open grasslands.
One bird hatched at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, the other at the Denver Zoo. The pair was being prepared for their release into the wild while at the White Oak Conservation Center in Florida. After their arrival in Colombia, the birds will spend approximately one month in an acclimation aviary before their release into a wilderness area 50 miles northeast of Bogotá.
"It's an incredible experience to see endangered animals that were hatched through conservation programs in zoos, like the Andean condor, released and flying among the mountaintops in their native habitat," said Michael Mace, curator of birds for the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and coordinator of the condors' trip to Colombia. "One of the most rewarding aspects for zoos and conservation organizations is to be able to participate in reintroduction programs to aid in re-establishing a species in the wild for hopefully generations into the future."
The two condors will be received by CORPOBOYACA, a natural resources management agency, on behalf of Parques Nacionales de Colombia, with the help of the Colombian federal agency Ministerio de Medioambiente de Colombia and the private organization Fundación Neotropical.
"Denver Zoo is very excited to be a part of this reintroduction process and we're happy to contribute to the recovery of this magnificent species in the wild," says John Azua, Denver Zoo curator of birds. "This is a very important project and we want to continue to see the numbers of these amazing birds climb. We also appreciate being able to work with local agencies to secure a better world for animals through human understanding."
The Andean condor program is international in scope with assistance from federal and local agencies in North and South America. Forty organizations within the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) have assisted and 18 zoos in the United States have hatched condors that have been sent to South America as part of this conservation program. Conservation centers play an important role in rearing and preparing animals for release projects.
"For the past two years the two condors have been living in a large flight enclosure, receiving natural prey diets, and were isolated from contact with people, all important factors in creating excellent candidates for the release program in South America," said Mike Taylor, avian collection manager at White Oak Conservation Center.
For more than 20 years, the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park have been working with South American government agencies and conservation organizations to send Andean condors to both Colombia and Venezuela. Including these two birds, 82 Andean condors have been sent to these two countries. The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park have sent 31 Andean condors to South America over the last 16 years, while this is Denver Zoo's first bird sent to South America.
This species of vulture is found throughout the Andes Mountains from Colombia to Tierra del Fuego, Argentina. Primarily, the Andean condor lives in high mountainous regions and open grasslands.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
AFRICAN ELEPHANT EXHIBIT EXPANDS AS HERD GROWS
With only one month to spare before the San Diego Zoo Safari Park's African elephant herd grows by one more with the birth of a calf expected in January-for a total of 17 elephants-the elephant habitat has nearly doubled in size to 5½ acres.
The Safari Park's six adult female elephants and eight youngsters, ranging in age from 7 months to 6 years old, moved as a unit while exploring the new area on Tuesday. Although most of the adults kept close together to protect the herd, the calves enjoyed playing in a pile of soft dirt, rolling in hay and pulling up grass bunches.
The exhibit expansion provides a second pool for swimming, another barn to warm up in during the winter months, if needed, and additional enrichment items to keep the elephants mentally and physically fit. The new space was vacated in 2009 by four Asian elephants that found a new home at the San Diego Zoo's Harry and Grace Steele Elephant Odyssey, a 7.5-acre exhibit housing more than 30 species of animals including lions and California condors.
After months of planning and fund-raising, hydraulic gates were built to connect the two yards to create one large habitat for the herd that has doubled its size since the adults were rescued in 2003 from the Kingdom of Swaziland. There, they faced being killed because elephant overpopulation was destroying habitat.
The 1,800-acre San Diego Zoo Safari Park (historically referred to as Wild Animal Park) is operated by the not-for-profit San Diego Zoo and includes a 900-acre native species reserve. The organization focuses on conservation and research work around the globe, educates millions of individuals a year about wildlife and maintains accredited horticultural, animal, library and photo collections. The Zoo also manages the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research. The important conservation and science work of these entities is supported in part by The Foundation of the Zoological Society of San Diego.
The Safari Park's six adult female elephants and eight youngsters, ranging in age from 7 months to 6 years old, moved as a unit while exploring the new area on Tuesday. Although most of the adults kept close together to protect the herd, the calves enjoyed playing in a pile of soft dirt, rolling in hay and pulling up grass bunches.
The exhibit expansion provides a second pool for swimming, another barn to warm up in during the winter months, if needed, and additional enrichment items to keep the elephants mentally and physically fit. The new space was vacated in 2009 by four Asian elephants that found a new home at the San Diego Zoo's Harry and Grace Steele Elephant Odyssey, a 7.5-acre exhibit housing more than 30 species of animals including lions and California condors.
After months of planning and fund-raising, hydraulic gates were built to connect the two yards to create one large habitat for the herd that has doubled its size since the adults were rescued in 2003 from the Kingdom of Swaziland. There, they faced being killed because elephant overpopulation was destroying habitat.
The 1,800-acre San Diego Zoo Safari Park (historically referred to as Wild Animal Park) is operated by the not-for-profit San Diego Zoo and includes a 900-acre native species reserve. The organization focuses on conservation and research work around the globe, educates millions of individuals a year about wildlife and maintains accredited horticultural, animal, library and photo collections. The Zoo also manages the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research. The important conservation and science work of these entities is supported in part by The Foundation of the Zoological Society of San Diego.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
