gorillas in 2009 2009 - calgary zoo: calgary’s top tourist ... \n r f? zoo gorilla troop expands...
TRANSCRIPT
The Calgary Zoological Society Newsletter
What’s New at the Zoo?
Zoo gorilla troop expands by fourThe zoo’s western lowland gorilla troop
is about to double in size with the addition of four new gorillas from the Bronx Zoo in New York City. The “Bronx Four” includes two six-year-old males, Shana and Zola, and two eight-year-old females, Dossi and Kioja.
“The four Bronx gorillas will be a really exciting addition to the troop,” says zookeeper Garth Irvine. “We expect Kakinga will approach the introductions with his usual confidence. Our three females, Zuri, Barika and Yewande, are curious and love to play. After some initial time getting to know each other, they will welcome their new playmates.”
The journey to CalgaryBringing new gorillas into the zoo’s
troop was no small task. It all started with a recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan for western lowland gorillas. Then import permits needed to be acquired, travel arrangements made and logistics worked out. “Moving the four gorillas from New York to Calgary was quite an endeavour,” says Garth. “It took well over a year between the recommendation and the gorillas’ arrival in Calgary.”
Continued on page 2.
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Fall 2009
Highlighting gorillas in 2009
Did you know that 2009 is Year of the Gorilla? As a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Calgary Zoo has joined with over 100 zoos worldwide in support of efforts to raise awareness, focus on education and fund field conservation projects.
“Year of the Gorilla allows us to showcase our own gorilla troop and world-class facilities while educating visitors about the many challenges gorillas face in the wild,” says zookeeper Garth Irvine.
Shana, a six-year-old male, is one of four new western lowland gorillas from the Bronx Zoo joining the Calgary Zoo’s troop. The two groups of gorillas will begin introductions in late August.
2009
Year of theGOR I L LA
Année duGOR I L L E
Let us know what you think Proposed changes to your newsletter
As a conservation organization, we are working to reduce our environmental footprint. Part of this initiative involves looking at how we distribute this newsletter. This publication was created for you, so we want to know what you think as we build a new strategy for the future. Give us your input by completing our short online survey by September 15 or call 403-232-9300 and we will mail a hard copy of the survey to you.
Complete our newsletter survey online at: http://www.axitg.com/zoonewsletter
The Calgary Zoological Society Newsletter
What’s New at the Zoo?
The transition from San Diego to Calgary has gone well for visiting koalas Budaru and Mundooie. “Both boys are eating well and settling in nicely. They’re also really starting to show off their personalities,” says zookeeper Barb Campbell.
Five-year-old Budaru likes to spend his time hanging out – literally. “We’re often surprised at the unique and entertaining resting positions he chooses. His limbs are always all over the place. We’ve even seen him relaxing with his head in the fork of a tree,” explains Barb.Mundooie is a traditionalist, opting for predictable koala resting positions. “He’s more of a laid back dude,” says Barb. “Nothing fazes him. He almost seems to know he’s eight years old, nine on July 12, and acts the role of the mature koala.”
Best koala viewing timesIf you’re looking to visit the koalas at their most active, our Breakfast with the Koalas program (see page 10 for details) is your best
Koalas settle into new digs
bet. “Right when the zoo opens in the morning or later in the afternoon are also good choices for prime koala viewing,” explains Barb. “But koalas are fun to watch any time. They spend 18 to 20 hours a day resting, but they’ll often get up and move around.”
Zoo interpreters are also at the koala habitat throughout the day to share cool koala facts. “They do an awesome job,” comments Barb. “It’s worth coming just to hear what they have to say.” Volunteers keep eucalyptus tasty for koalas
Twice a week, volunteers spend time preparing eucalyptus for the koalas to eat. They re-trim every single piece so it will absorb water better and stay fresh and tasty for our koalas.
“We’re learning a lot about eucalyptus,” says Barb. “It is grown and cut in Arizona and then flown to Calgary twice a week by FedEx, so keeping it fresh can be a bit challenging.”
See page 3 for new information on parking at the zoo.
Summer 2009
(L-R) Jason Webb, DownUnder Travel, Frank Ostrowski, trip winner, Tanis Whitwell, trip winner, Denise Flemig, Qantas Airways.
Contest winners head down under
Frank Ostrowski and Tanis Whitwell are headed to Australia courtesy of DownUnder Travel, Qantas Airways, Calgary Herald, Energy 101.5fm and Stella Hospitality!
To kick off the arrival of Mundooie and Budaru, the zoo launched a contest with a grand prize of two trips for two to Australia. The response was fantastic! Winners will enjoy round-trip airfare to Brisbane, Australia, seven nights accommodation and much more.Thanks to all of our sponsors for their generous contributions and support in helping us bring a bit of Australia to Calgary.
Mundooie chooses a more traditional koala resting position.
Budaru “hangs out” in his typical style.
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Zoo NewsAnimAl news
New gorilla troop members
What’s New at the Zoo?
A Calgary Zoological Society
newsletter for members.
Published four times per year by
The Calgary Zoological Society 1300 Zoo Road NE
Calgary, Alberta T2E 7V6 403-232-9300
www.calgaryzoo.com
© 2009, The Calgary Zoological Society.
All rights reserved.
Editor: Michelle Woodard
Contributors: Estelle Blair, Julie Ann Gauthier,
Corinne Hannah, Sonia Law,
Carla Paton, Kailey Setter, Doug Whiteside
Continued from page 1.
During their flight from New York to Calgary in May, the four gorillas were accompanied by three staff from the Bronx Zoo who stayed in Calgary for a few days to help the gorillas make the transition.
Getting to know youTo keep the zoo’s animal collection
healthy and safe, all new animals to the zoo go through a quarantine period. After arriving in Calgary, the gorillas spent their first 90 days in the zoo’s Animal Health Centre quarantine space. In late August they will move to the back area of the gorilla habitat in the TransAlta Rainforest.
“In this space, the gorillas can smell and hear each other, but do not have direct contact,” explains Garth. “This allows them to get to know each other a bit before the direct introductions start.”
The quarantine period will be over at the end of August, but that will just be the beginning of introducing the gorillas to their new troop. The process will take some time and a lot of patience. “It will likely
be at least three months before the troop is fully integrated and it could be much longer,” explains Garth. “We start by letting individuals and small groups of the gorillas get closer and closer to each other, so they can form bonds and relationships.”
About the Bronx FourFemales Kioja and Dossi have known
each other from a very young age and always resided in the same troop. Males Shana and Zola were part of another troop at the Bronx Zoo. They are only two months apart in age and are quite inseparable. Although the two sets of gorillas lived in two different troops for most of their lives, they were integrated
at the Bronx Zoo before coming to Calgary and interact very well with each other.
Dossi is very independent and enjoys spending time playing by herself.
Kioja is an entertaining gorilla that loves to play with Shana
and Zola. She is quick to learn new things. “Visitors will notice that Kioja has some bald spots as a result of a behaviour called hair plucking,” explains Garth. “The behaviour started when she was quite young as a nervous habit, much the same way some people chew their fingernails. She’s a happy, well-adjusted, calm gorilla and the behaviour does not affect her health or her interactions with the troop.”
Shana, pictured on page one, is a perfect “silverback in training.” He always makes sure the “Bronx Four” are accounted for. He has
a bit of a short attention span, but seems to enjoy using the gorilla puzzle feeders.
Zola, a six-year-old male, is the smallest of the four and he tends to be a bit shy.
Make sure to stop by the gorilla habitat and welcome the zoo’s new gorillas over the coming months.
Eight-year-old female, Kioja.
Engage, connect, inspireNew mission provides solid foundation
When the zoo decided to develop a new mission statement, the process involved far more than rearranging words. “We wanted to capture the magical moments people experience at the zoo and include them in the statement we use to define what we are as an organization,” explains Clément Lanthier, the zoo’s President and CEO. “You can distill the new mission down to three key words – engage, connect and inspire.”
Engage is about giving visitors the chance to experience and learn at the zoo. Connect recognizes the natural curiosity people have about nature and provides opportunities to interact with live animals and plants. Inspire is about leading by example and encouraging people to take action in their own lives.
“We worked closely with our Board of Trustees and our staff to carefully select and define each word in the new mission,” says Clément. “We believe it clearly states where we are and provides a strong foundation for our new vision.”
Watch for more information on the zoo’s new vision in our next newsletter.
New mission:
Engage visitors in enjoyable and unique experiences,
connect our community with nature, and inspire actions
which support conservation.
Six-year-old male, Zola.
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Eight-year-old female, Dossi.
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AnimAl news
The road less travelledSometimes it’s better to be small!
Gorilla playtimePlaying is an important part of being
at the zoo – for humans and animals. Yewande, the zoo’s one-year-old gorilla is no exception. Zookeepers spend lots of time changing the gorilla habitat to keep things interesting for her.
“The gorilla habitat is Yewande’s playground, so we try to make sure the area that’s about three feet off the ground is stimulating and challenging for her,” explains zookeeper Garth Irvine.
Wild gorillas spend a lot of time moving around in search of food. Changes to the gorilla habitat encourage this exploring behaviour.
“In the past year we made more than 2,000 changes to the physical layout of the gorilla habitat – moving ropes, fire hoses, bungees, logs and nets,” explains Garth. “The adult gorillas don’t pay as much attention to the changes, but the juveniles really like checking out their new digs.”
Think you know every nook and cranny of the zoo? Think again. It’s a whole different world when you’re under four feet tall. Take a look at some of the favourite spots that little ones love to visit at the zoo.
Burning off steamEveryone knows the best
zoo visits include lots of time spent negotiating the mazes of ropes and slides at the Kinsmen ZooVenture Playground. If you’re really lucky you’ve even had the opportunity to navigate these areas yourself while trying to bring your child back down to earth!
Toddler talk – gorilla styleYewande, the zoo’s youngest gorilla,
sometimes sneaks a peek at the human children nearby to see what they’re doing. Kids seem to know instinctively that Yewande is just as interested in them as they are in her and squish their noses against the glass to get as close as possible.
Sassy snakeMake sure to check out the zoo’s
enormous African rock python, named Pebbles, in the African Savannah. Pebbles often stretches out from her coils and follows children on the other side of the glass. Ever wonder what she’s thinking as she flicks her tongue in and out to test the scent?
Built-in poop protectionWhat an advantage! When the zoo’s
male hippo, Foggy, sprays poop with his tail, it flies right over your head when you’re under four feet tall!
Something’s fishy The cichlid tank at the entrance to
the TransAlta Rainforest is an amazing experience for little ones. They love to sort the fish – a lesson in patterns and organization in living colour.
Most hugged creature?Without a doubt it’s the triceratops at
the entrance to Prehistoric Park (it’s even worn smooth by all those little hugs). A close second has to be the model of Spike,
the zoo’s bull elephant, in Elephant Crossing. Children are drawn to Spike like mini magnets. They love to measure their height against his enormous backside.
A final word …Children flock to the geese and
peacocks that wander the grounds; they’re beautiful and they’re almost exactly the same height. Though they may fascinate each other, remember that
they’re not tame and that you shouldn’t try to touch them.
– Zoo Visitor Education Team
Zoo member Santiago Taverner-Gil agrees that the cichlid tank in the TransAlta Rainforest is a cool place to spend time. His favourites are the orange fish!
The temptation to reach out for the geese and peacocks on zoo grounds can be hard to resist, but it’s important to remind children that they’re not tame and it’s not a good idea to get too close.
Yewande, the zoo’s youngest gorilla, plays outdoors after zookeepers make changes to the physical layout of the gorilla habitat.
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AnimAl And Horticulture news
Whooping cranesThis past spring, nine fertile whooping crane eggs laid at the zoo’s Devonian Wildlife Conservation Centre were carefully hand-delivered to Patuxent Wildlife Research Center near Laurel, Maryland and The International Crane Foundation in Baraboo, Wisconsin. Zookeeper Dwight Knapik made three separate trips with the eggs by commercial jet. Of the nine eggs, six successfully hatched. “This is only the first step in a very long journey for these chicks,” said Dwight. “The end result for most of the birds will be a migration of approximately 2,000 kilometres from Wisconsin to Florida this fall.”
Coming soon …We have several new species
planned for the zoo in the coming months. Keep an eye out for red kangaroos, Seba’s short-tailed bats and capybaras.
This summer zoo campers in grades one and two gave the wildflower collection in the Canadian Wilds a helping hand. Campers made ‘seed bombs’ and launched them into the naturalized areas of the Canadian Wilds.
The zoo’s own Jane Reksten, Botanical Programs Coordinator, researched the recipe for the seed bombs – a fun way to add wildflowers to your home garden, acreage or schoolyard (in cooperation with your Schoolyard Naturalization program, of course).
When selecting seeds it’s important to do some homework first. Many retail wildflower mixes contain plants that are not native to Alberta. Some non-native plants may not survive in our region. Others do too well and can cause an introduced weed problem. If you can’t find an appropriate mix locally, ALCLA Native Plant Restoration Inc. (www.alclanativeplants.com) is a great source of native seed mixes.
– Corinne Hannah, Zoo Horticulturist
Zoo giggle
Q: What flower grows right
under your nose?
A: Tulips!
Baby red pandaThe zoo was pleased to
celebrate the birth of a female red panda cub on June 4 to parents Malikha and Zeyar. Watch for the new red panda when she is ready to emerge from her den – likely sometime around the end of August.
Hellos & goodbyesStay up-to-date on new animals at the zoo, animals that have moved to another part of the zoo and others we’ve said goodbye to.
Wildflowers are the bomb!
Make your own wildflower seed bombs
Knead together: 4 parts compost 5 parts soil 1 part native wildflower seeds
Add just enough water to make the mix workable. Use a spray bottle to add additional water, if needed. Roll your mix into golf-ball sized balls and dry for 24 to 48 hours. Once dry, your seed bombs are ready to launch!
Hold on tight – it’s going to be a fun rideJust imagine watching your child ride on a
silverback gorilla, flamingo, praying mantis, a wheelchair-accessible chariot or any of the 30 figures on Canada’s first wildlife carousel. In
partnership with Calgary Co-op, the zoo will start construction of the new Calgary Co-op Kids Zone between the tiger habitat and the Eurasian Marsh in September. Scheduled to open next summer, the zone will also be home to a toddler playground and a new shelter for the zoo train.
“Calgary Co-op, like the Calgary Zoo, believes in our community and family fun,” says Donna Burn, Vice President of Member and Public Relations with Calgary Co-op. “Our exclusive sponsorship will help bring people together in a fun way and enable children to learn about conservation. The child-friendly area will enhance the unique features of the zoo for people in our community for many years to come.”
Dianna Mastin, Summer Camp Assistant, shows off seed bombs used by zoo campers this summer.
Jane
Rek
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Sierra Hart, age three, rides on Co-oparoo, one of the feature animals on a wildlife carousel to be built in the new Co-op Kids Zone. Standing with her are Ken McCullough, left, CEO of Calgary Co-op and Clément Lanthier, president and CEO of the Calgary Zoo.
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Education nEws
Help the ENMAX Conservatory grow
If you haven’t already seen it, keep an eye out for the zoo’s mobile education truck – the RBC Zoomobile – at venues around the city. Talented zoo educators use animal artifacts such as feathers, fur and skulls, along with live animal ambassadors to share nature with people in places they might not expect to find it.
“The RBC Zoomobile is a unique way for people to experience nature-based learning,” explains Dawna Sagi, RBC Zoomobile Coordinator. “We travel to schools, libraries, community events, corporate parties and seniors’ facilities to help people learn about nature and the environment.”
Programs are typically 45 minutes long and can be tailored for a variety of audiences. “We have something for everyone,” explains Dawna. “We focus on the same things that people learn in our
zoo-based education programs. We want to help people make a connection with nature so they are inspired to protect it.”
And it’s fun too. “People enjoy getting up close to animals,” says Dawna. “How cool is it to be three feet away from a barn owl, opossum, garter snake, parrot or turtle?”
The RBC Zoomobile also travels outside the city. In February, the talented educators brought programming to the public library in Acme, Alberta. “It was wonderful to have the kids engaged in so many activities, and so many animals,” says Ryan James of the Acme Municipal Library.
If you’re interested in booking the RBC Zoomobile for your classroom or upcoming event, please contact Dawna Sagi at 403-695-3813 or [email protected].
Zoo takes to the road with RBC Zoomobile
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Meet Nyoka, an RBC Zoomobile ambassador
Nyoka is a Dumeril’s ground boa and an RBC Zoomobile ambassador animal. She is five years old and was born at the Calgary Zoo. Between three and four feet long, Nyoka still isn’t quite full grown. To get an idea of the size of an adult Dumeril’s, visit her mom, Madinika, who is closer to six feet long. You can find her in the TransAlta Rainforest boa habitat just inside the entrance of the building.
As their name suggests, Dumeril’s ground boas spend most of their time on the ground. They slither through the leaf litter on dry forest floors in Madagascar using their upturned noses like shovels to look for food.
“Like most snakes, Nyoka doesn’t eat every day,” explains zookeeper Elaine Willms. “We offer her food, usually mice, once a week.”
When she’s not travelling with the RBC Zoomobile, you can find Nyoka in the Researcher’s Cabin of the TransAlta Rainforest.
RBC Zoomobile coordinator Dawna Sagi with Nyoka.
Zoo giggle
Q: What do you get if you
cross a snake and a
Lego set?
A: A boa constructor!
Thank you so much to our friends who have already stepped forward to contribute
to the ENMAX Conservatory project. If you have not yet made your donation, please
send it as soon as you can. Donations will be accepted until the end of September.
A unique donor tree in the main entrance of the ENMAX Conservatory will
recognize giving levels of $500, $1,000, $5,000 and $10,000 and up.
Every gift makes a difference!
Please visit www.calgaryzoo.com, call 403-232-7774 or email [email protected] to give your gift today.
Last chance -
don’t miss out!
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Conservation outreaCh
Did you know?Amur tigers can prey on Asiatic black
bears (about the size of our grizzlies)
and sometimes on brown bears
(even larger). While studying bears
in Russia, the research team came
across these bear claws in tiger scat.
Counting carnivores in RussiaWhen you’re trying to save endangered
species, knowing exactly how many animals are out there is important. The Sikhote-Alain area of Russia is the last stronghold of Amur (Siberian) tigers and home to many other species, including brown bears, Asiatic black bears and wild boars.
Counting bears by their hairRussian wildlife managers do not have a
current estimate of bear and tiger populations in the Sikhote-Alain region. With financial support from the Calgary Zoo Conservation Fund, Canadian researchers are hoping to use new research methods to change this.
In the past, bear research involved collaring bears. Today’s bear research in our Canadian Rockies is done more passively using techniques like DNA analysis – collecting DNA samples using hair snags, wildlife trees and scat – to see how many bears are in an area. One of the main reasons the zoo helps fund this research is to encourage researchers to share new, reliable and non-invasive technologies with scientists in other parts of the world.
Testing research methods on the other side of the globe
Erin Latham, a student researcher in bear ecology with Parks Canada, spent ten weeks in Russia during the summer of 2008 testing these non-invasive DNA sampling techniques.
“In this pilot research project we are hoping to get an idea of the different species represented by the DNA samples; look at potential interactions between bears, tigers and other animals; and estimate how many brown bears and Asiatic black bears are in the area.”
With the help of four Russian student field assistants, Erin set up and monitored remote hair snag stations on wildlife trees. They worked in one of the largest protected wildlife reserves in Russia collecting over 250 samples. Erin plans to use the DNA information from the samples to identify which species are represented – likely Amur tigers, Asiatic black bears, brown bears and wild boars. She also plans to use camera data to look at other animals that visit wildlife trees in Russia – in the Rockies, deer, moose, wolverines, wolves and other animals also check out wildlife trees.
There is a lot of paperwork involved in bringing DNA samples back to Canada for
analysis. Once permits are received and the samples arrive, they will be tested in a British Columbia lab. This will likely happen over the next year.
2009 DEPARTURESA few seats remain on these ‘09 trips
KENYA & TANZANIA Sept. 11-28 w/Les O’Brien. $9,110Sept. 21 -Oct. 6 w/Barb Campbell. $8,445. From Nairobi.
INDOCHINA: Sept. 25 - Oct. 13 w/Denell Falk. $6,625 from Hanoi. Vietnam, Cambodia & Laos.
2010 ADVENTURES
Antarctica: Feb. 19-Mar. 8 w/Brian KeatingSouth Orkney Islands & Weddell Sea (optional Medical Challenges Conference seminars).
Bhutan: May 16-June 1 w/Brian Keating. $6,550 from Bangkok.
Botswana & Victoria Falls: Jan. 15-31 Secret season. From $7,950, starting in Maun.
China with Tibet. Sept. 18-Oct. 4 w/Gayleen Jorgensen.
Ecuador - Spring Break & Summer.Mar. 26-Apr. 6 w/Judy Archer. From $5,870/child; from $6,625/adult*July 24-Aug. 5 w/Barb Campbell. $5,570/child; $6,900/adult
Egypt & Jordan. Mar. 1-19 w/Denell Falk. $8,895 starts in Cairo; ends in Amman.
Indochina: Sept. 24-Oct. 9 w/Barb Campbell.
Kenya Summer Safari: July 9-22 w/Tracee Sano. From $7,420July 30-Aug. 15 w/Kevin Strange. From $8,080, includes beach extension.
Tanzania Summer Safari: July 16-30 w/ Cathy Gaviller. From $5,625/chd; $7,295/adult.
Kenya & Tanzania:Jan. 13-Feb. 1 w/Trish Lund; $9,825Feb. 19-Mar. 10 w/Cathy Gaviller; $9,825Sept. 8-26 w/Les O’Brien; $9,595Sept. 23-Oct. 9 w/Margie Woo; 8,825
Peru & Ecuador: Jan. 23-Feb. 14 w/Margie Woo. From $12,020.
Peru*July 16-24 w/Barb Campell. $3,525/child; $4,335/adult
* COMBINABLE.
Start planning now for your next trip.Supporting Conservation Outreach.
Call Civilized Adventures at 403-205-4120 or see www.civilizedadv.com
ZOOFARIS
Discover Life on Earth!Leopard in the Masai Mara by Tracee Sano
Researcher Erin Latham at a wildlife tree that bears use as a rub tree and tigers use as a marking tree. This is one of many sites where she collected DNA samples to estimate wild bear populations in Russia.
“Islands of Time” with Brian KeatingJoin Brian in some of the world’s most remote island landscapes to celebrate Darwin’s discoveries – from tiny intensely coloured poisonous frogs to birds with impossible plumage and howling primitive primates. Date: Tuesday, November 3 at the Jubilee Auditorium Time: Doors open at 5:30 pm, talk begins at 7:00 pm Cost: $10 per person in advance through TicketWeb. $15 per person at the door. Children under 12 are free.
Presented by the Canadian Society of Petroleum Geologists 2009 Honorary Address
Veterinary news
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Imperial Oil KidzKonnect brings teen volunteers and the zoo together
A (bearded) dragon’s taleThe zoo’s highly trained and experienced
veterinary and animal care staff take great pride in providing quality health care for all of the animals at the zoo – whether they are very large or extremely tiny. A recent example is the story of a little female bearded dragon named “Squirt”.
Taking care of SquirtWhen Squirt came to the zoo’s veterinary
hospital she was very weak and had a swollen coelom (the undivided chest and abdominal cavities in all vertebrates other than mammals). We examined Squirt, did x-rays (called radiographs) and an ultrasound. Results showed that she was having difficulty laying eggs (called dystocia) and a severe infection. We started by stabilizing her condition and giving her intravenous fluids, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory therapy.
Approximately a quarter cup of fluid (almost 12 per cent of her body weight) was removed from her coelom. We then tested the fluid to find out which bacteria was causing the infection to make sure we were giving Squirt the best antibiotic therapy.
Volunteering at the zoo is a rewarding experience – no matter what your age. Now, thanks to the generosity of the Imperial Oil Foundation, the zoo offers volunteer opportunities for teens through a program called KidzKonnect.
“Volunteering at the Zoo is an opportunity for me to help and give back to the community, while learning about all the different animals,” says Simrat, a 15-year-old KidzKonnect volunteer. “It’s great to volunteer at a place I have always loved.”
Learning the ropesThis summer, KidzKonnect volunteers
took part in zoo ambassador activities, welcoming zoo visitors and answering
Squirt responded very well to her initial treatment, and gained her strength back. She passed the retained eggs within a few days, but the infection persisted. She also had a large yolk mass on her right ovary. If these masses rupture, they often lead to severe inflammation and death. Female lizards that have dystocia are also predisposed to having it occur again. With this information, we decided that surgical intervention was needed to remove her ovaries and oviducts (similar to an ovariohysterectomy or “spay” surgery in domestic companion animals).
Back to being a dragonWhile an animal health technologist
carefully monitored anesthesia, zoo veterinarians performed the delicate surgery. Squirt recovered well from the procedure and her infection is gone.
Squirt is bright and strong now, and back in the Australia building with her fellow bearded dragons.
– Dr. Doug Whiteside, Zoo Veterinarian
questions. The 14 to 17-year-old volunteers received zoo-specific training sessions and special Check-In sessions featuring guest speakers from the zoo community. Later this year, KidzKonnect volunteers will help with Boo at the Zoo and Zoolights.
Become a teen volunteerPlans are underway for the rollout of
opportunities for the 2010 KidzKonnect season. Check out www.calgaryzoo.com early next year for information and to apply. For details, please contact Alejandra Rojas at 403-232-9332 or [email protected].
Grounds for Change wins award
Congratulations to the zoo’s Grounds for Change program on its recent Emerald Award. Founded in 1998 with the support of Agrium, Grounds for Change is a naturalization program that works to convert schoolyards from turf and asphalt to natural environments.
The award recognizes excellent environmental initiatives in Alberta and was presented for GroundWorks, a program within Grounds for Change. GroundWorks offers year-round training and support for teachers who want to make the most of a naturalized area with hands-on, curriculum focused activities.
“Grounds for Change gave our students and teachers the confidence, appreciation and knowledge to utilize our natural backyard space through our curriculum to the fullest,” says Andrea Love, a teacher at Wildwood Elementary.
“Agrium congratulates the zoo on its ‘Emerald’ recognition,” says Rose Lecky, Agrium’s manager of social responsibility. “We believe in the zoo’s philosophy of integrating school curriculum with the school’s natural space and support its efforts from the beginning, now and into the future.”
Squirt the bearded dragon looking healthy and happy two weeks after her surgery.
The 2009 KidzKonnect teen volunteer team.
Artwork done by a Wildwood Elementary student as part of their schoolyard naturalization program.
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Conservation researCh
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This fall, Grasslands National Park in Saskatchewan will host the return of the black-footed ferret. This charismatic prairie species has been extinct in Canada since the early 1900s but, with the help of the Canadian Black-footed Ferret Recovery Team (which includes the Calgary Zoo), black-footed ferrets will once again be able to call Canada home.
Finding a new prairie homeSo, why are the ferrets being sent to Saskatchewan?
The simple answer is because that’s where the black-tailed prairie dogs are. Prairie dogs make up about 90 per cent of the black-footed ferret’s diet, and Canada’s population of these little critters only exists in and around Grasslands National Park. Very few places in North America have the ideal conditions for reintroduced black-footed ferrets, but researchers think Grasslands National Park has great potential.
Tricky businessThough wildlife biologists have found ways to successfully breed
ferrets in captivity, reintroducing them into their historical range has proven much more difficult. Scientists hope that the unique ecological and geographical situation in Grasslands National Park will foster a sustainable wild black-footed ferret population and prove to be a safe haven for the species.
Biologists from the Calgary Zoo’s Centre for Conservation Research have been on the ground in Grasslands National Park since 2006 studying the population dynamics of Canada’s black-tailed prairie dog population. This prairie dog research will continue in conjunction with ferret research to promote the recovery and sustainability of the two species – both of which are vital to a healthy prairie ecosystem.
Join us for our first ever public research talks!Free with zoo admission!
Lending a Hand … Assisted Reproductive Technologies in Threatened Wood BisonTuesday, September 15 Savannah Classroom: 1:40 - 2:10 pm A look at how a zoo veterinarian is helping to preserve future generations of wood bison.
A homecoming for black-footed ferrets
Extinct in Canada since the early 1900s, black-footed ferrets will be making their return to Canada this fall as part of a national reintroduction effort.
Swift fox drawing wins contest
Thank you to everyone who participated in our first Centre for Conservation Research colouring contest. The zoo’s researchers really enjoyed learning which animals are your favourites.
Congratulations to Maya Carcamo for her winning entry!
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Conservation researCh
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Husky Energy Endangered Species Reintroduction Research Program
Husky Energy is a proud sponsor of the Husky Energy Endangered Species Reintroduction Research Program at the Calgary Zoo’s Centre for Conservation Research. This program is vital to the preservation of endangered species in Alberta and Canada and demonstrates Husky’s stewardship and support for the ecosystems on which we all depend.
ZooCare makes a great gift!
Support a grizzly bear for a birthday, a whooping crane for a wedding, or a snow leopard for a Christmas gift. ZooCare is a great way to support the Calgary Zoo. Your donation goes directly toward the care and feeding of our animals.
For a minimum $35 donation you will receive a certificate with a colour picture and biofact sheet highlighting the species you have chosen, as well as a charitable tax receipt. For a full list of species or to purchase your ZooCare package, call 403-232-7774 or visit ZooCare at www.calgaryzoo.com.
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Name: Abbey Camaclang Age: 28 Occupation: Conservation researcher Education: Masters in Environmental Studies, BSc with Honours in Ecology
The Alberta Society of Professional Biologists (ASPB) and the Centre for Conservation Research are proud to introduce Abbey Camaclang, the 2009 recipient of the annual Canadian Conservation Research Fellowship.
Q: What is your favourite thing about doing research?
A: I learn something new every day. I especially like doing field research because I get to see cool plants and animals and sometimes go places that not many people have the chance to see.
Meet a researcher2009 Canadian Conservation Fellowship Q&A
Q: What inspired you to be a researcher?
A: When I was very young I was always asking lots of questions. When I learned what ecology was – the study of the relationship between living things and their environment – I decided I wanted to study ecology and become a researcher. Now I get to ask questions all the time!
Q: What is the funniest thing that has happened to you while doing research?
A: Once I was moving pots of sunflowers in the Prairies. While I was walking with a sunflower in each hand, I tripped, and landed right on a cactus – ouch!
Abbey has already been hard at work in the field with the northern leopard frog and black-tailed prairie dog research teams. To learn more about Abbey and the Centre for Conservation Research’s projects, visit the Conservation Research section at www.calgaryzoo.com.
The eyes have it!Can you guess which zoo animals these
eyes belong to?
(Check your answers at the bottom of this page)
Answers (Clockwise from top left): Western lowland gorilla, burrowing owl, Grevy’s zebra, swift fox, African lion, cougar
San
Die
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oo
Last chance -
don’t miss out!
friday, september 11, 2009 6pm to midnight
support our sexy beasts at the calgary zoo’s
premier fundraiser
scrumptious dishes • sinful cocktails sensational auction • sultry
performers • seductive rhythms
all inclusive food and drinks
get your tickets at www.calgaryzoo.com
calgarysun.com
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Breakfast and Behind the Scenes with Giraffes Enjoy a hot pancake breakfast in Kitamba Cafe and listen to a half-hour interpretive program all about giraffes. After breakfast, we’ll take a short walk over to the African Savannah building to meet a zookeeper for an up-close look at our four giraffes. You may even get to feed them some carrots!Date: Sunday, October 4 Time: 10:00 - 11:30 am Cost: Adults $70 Child $65 (10% discount for Discovery Passport Members)
10 Space is limited. Call 403-232-9300 or visit www.calgaryzoo.com.
Breakfast with the Koalas Come on down mate! Fill up on a hot pancake “brekkie” at Kitamba Cafe and listen to some “kool” stuff about koalas. Take a short walkabout over to the Australia building and take a gander at our visitors from San Diego. You will get a private viewing of these non-bears while the zookeeper completes her morning routine. Ages five and older only.Dates: Sunday, August 23 or Saturday, September 5 Time: 7:45 - 9:15 am Cost: Adult $45 Child $29 (10% discount for Discovery Passport Members)
Bathtime with the ElephantsWatch for the return of Bathtime with the Elephants at the Calgary Zoo this fall!Ever wonder how zookeepers scrub behind an elephant’s ear? Learn this and so much more in this hands on program when you take a behind-the-scenes look at the zoo’s pachyderms (including their very large bath) and feed them a treat to reward them for their hard work!
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Halloween Programs
Boo Sleepover A Halloween adventure to remember! Bring your family down to the zoo for a bat-themed sleepover in our TransAlta Rainforest building. Start by exploring Boo at the Zoo at your own pace between 6:30 and 7:30 pm, then join sleepover guides at 7:30 pm for a fun and informative evening of stories, activities, and a craft. We’ll bunk down in the Rainforest atrium for a night you won’t soon forget! Be sure to wear your costume for show and tell. Includes Boo at the Zoo admission, evening snack, activities, craft, hot pancake breakfast and day pass. Ages five years and older only. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult.Date: Overnight on Friday, October 30 Time: 7:30 pm - 8:30 am Cost: $55 per person
Halloween with the Gorillas Our gorillas won’t be going trick-or-treating so help bring the treats to them! We may carve a pumpkin and see how the gorillas react or try making a skeleton out of celery. Will Kakinga, our massive silverback, eat it all? Or will Yewande, our youngest gorilla, be able to sneak a piece? Your hard work will be rewarded as you observe the gorillas enjoying the treats and seeing first-hand their strategies to make sure they each get the most of their favourites. This program does not include a behind-the-scenes component, but a gorilla zookeeper will be on-hand to answer questions. Ages seven and older only. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult (maximum of two children per adult).Date: Saturday, October 17 Time: 1:00 - 4:00 pm Cost: Adult $35 Child $17
Goin’ Batty Bring your family and join us for an interactive look at the fascinating world of the only flying mammal – bats! Learn about echolocation, bat guano, why these critters hang upside-down and how many hundreds of mosquitoes they can eat in one night. Program includes a visit with a live bat from our collection. Ages five and older only. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult.Date: Sunday, October 18 Time: 1:30 - 3:00 pm Cost: Adult $20 Child $10 (10% discount for Discovery Passport Members)
Who Gives a HootDiscover some of the twelve owl species that call Alberta home through interesting activities with lots of things to see and touch. Find out how owls hunt at night, survive winter and raise a family. Program includes a visit with a live owl from our collection. Ages five and older only. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult.Date: Sunday, October 18 Time: 10:00 - 11:30 am Cost: Adult $20 Child $10 (10% discount for Discovery Passport Members)
no scarerecommended for 6 years & under
no scare to high scarerecommended for 6 years & up
www.calgaryzoo.com 403 232 9300
no scare no scare to high scareno scare to high scareno scare to high scare
day night
play halloween games, see the creepy creatures show, find your way out of the corn maze or visit the beauty shop of horrors. for the brave souls the walk of the dead will surely terrify!
toddlers can meet some creepy crawlies, see a bat
show, play halloween games and then participate in
the costume parade.
october 3110:00 am to 3:00 pm
free withzoo admission
october 26-306:30 pm to 9:00 pmpre-purchased tickets onlyadults $9 kids $7treat bag included
Boo WNAZ Ad.pdf 6/24/09 9:19:11 PM
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Space is limited. Call 403-232-9300 or visit www.calgaryzoo.com.
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AnimAl And Behind-the-SceneS ProgrAmS
Space is limited. Call 403-232-9300 or visit www.calgaryzoo.com.
Behind the Scenes with TigersDiscover interesting facts about Amur (Siberian) tigers, their adaptations, behaviours and more. Then enjoy a fascinating feline encounter. Maximum group size is 20 people. Ages five and older only. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult. Register early for this popular program! Dates: Saturday, September 5, Sunday, September 27, Sunday, October 18, Saturday, November 21 or Sunday, December 6 Time: 1:45 - 3:00 pm Cost: Adult $60 Child $55 (10% discount for Discovery Passport Members)
Behind the Scenes with GiraffesFind out what it’s like to stand right beside a giraffe – see how long their eyelashes are and learn what colour their tongues are! Enjoy an interactive interpretive talk, then journey behind the scenes and meet the giraffes up close. Maximum group size is 40 people. Ages five and older only. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult. Dates: Sunday, September 20, Sunday, October 25, Saturday, November 14 or Saturday, December 12 Time: 1:45 - 3:00 pm Cost: Adult $60 Child $55 (10% discount for Discovery Passport Members)
Red Panda Zookeeper Workshop Get nose-to-nose with red pandas, Bactrian camels, fallow deer and pot-bellied pigs. Experience part of a zookeeper’s morning routine and get hands-on experience with activities that could include preparing food, cleaning habitats and participating in the animal enrichment program. Group size is limited to four to provide an unforgettable experience. Ages eight and older only. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult. Dates: Saturday, October 17, Saturday, October 31, Saturday, November 14, Saturday, November 28 or Saturday, December 12 Time: 8:30 - 10:00 am Cost: Adult $95 Child $75
Behind the Scenes with LionsDiscover our pride … of lions, that is! This popular program includes an interactive and informative talk about lions followed by an unforgettable opportunity to join zookeepers behind the scenes. Maximum group size is 20 people. Ages eight and older only. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult. Dates: Saturday, August 22, Sunday, September 13, Saturday, October 3, Sunday, November 8 or Saturday, December 5 Time: 12:15 - 1:30 pm Cost: Adult $60 Child $55 (10% discount for Discovery Passport Members)
New Dates!
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Zookeeper for a Day Ever dreamed of being a zookeeper? Spend the day with the zoo’s animal care staff and help them prepare meals, feed animals, clean habitats, change exhibits, learn about our animal enrichment program and Species Survival Plans®, and more. Choose from Destination Africa (mostly indoors), Eurasian Carnivores (outdoors), Canadian Wilds (outdoors) or Devonian Wildlife Conservation Centre (outdoors until October 31). This popular program is available a limited number of times each month. Adults only. Dates: All programs are based on availability. For more info or to book your program, call Estelle at 403-232-9362. Time: Varies depending on program Cost: $375
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Get Nose to Trunk with an Elephant Encounter Ever wonder what an elephant’s skin feels like or how big their teeth are? Learn about elephants through an interpretive talk then visit with members of the herd up-close. You’ll find out what the largest animal at the zoo has for a snack and even get a chance to feed them a healthy treat. Maximum group size is 25 people. Ages five and older only. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult. Allergy alert: peanuts. Please note that this is not a bath time program. Dates: Sunday, September 6, Saturday, September 26, Saturday, October 24, Sunday, November 15 or Sunday, December 13 Time: 12:15 - 1:30 pm Cost: Adult $70 Child $65 (10% discount for Discovery Passport Members)
Special Coupon Offer!Get $10 off the price of an adult or child ticket for an elephant encounter until October 1, 2009. Please quote coupon #1091 to receive the discounted price.
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Birthday Party Package Includes:• Admission to the Zoo for up to 20 people • Themed activities • A private room for cake and opening gifts• A guided tour• Beverages • A special gift for the birthday child • Birthday Party Host• Zoonique treat bags available
Children 5-12 years old (2.5 hour party)$350 ($300 for Calgary Zoo Discovery Passport Members)
Children 3-4 years old (1.5 hour party)$250 ($225 for Calgary Zoo Discover Passport Members)
Call 232-9353 to register today or visit www.calgaryzoo.com for more information. AvAIl
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Youth Group Zoo Sleepovers Looking for something different for your Guide, Scout or youth group? Imagine sleeping in the African Savannah, exploring Eurasia at night, touring the Canadian Wilds by moonlight or drifting off to the sounds of the TransAlta Rainforest. All sleepover programs include a guided tour, interactive storytelling and songs, bedtime snack, buffet breakfast and a day pass for admission to the zoo. You just need to bring your sleeping bag and a sense of adventure! For more information, visit www.calgaryzoo.com or call 403-232-9353 to book your youth group sleepover. Cost is $55 per person.
Wee WigglersBring your child for a visit with some of the coolest animals at the zoo. Children get up-close-and-personal with small handleable animals and animal artifacts in a private classroom setting. Everyone can approach and explore at their own pace. Ages two to five years only. Up to two children per adult are permitted. Ticket price does not include gate admission. Dates: Reptiles - Tuesday, October 6 Insects - Tuesday, October 20 Mammals - Tuesday, November 3
Times: 10:00 - 10:30 am or 10:45 - 11:15 am Cost: $12 (10% discount for Discovery Passport Members)
Child and Family Programs
Space is limited. Call 403-232-9300 or visit www.calgaryzoo.com.
Kids Club Do you want to be a zookeeper or zoologist? Then this club is for you! Monthly interactive learning experiences involve hands-on exploration, games, crafts, mini tours and the chance to visit with some of our ambassador animals. T-shirt included!
Kinderzoo (Ages 4-5) (One adult per child included in price) Time: 9:00 - 10:30 am
Zoo Rangers (Ages 6-9) Time: 11:15 am - 1:15 pm
Junior Naturalists (Ages 10-13) Time: 2:00 - 4:00 pm
Dates: All classes on Saturdays. September 19, October 17, November 21 and December 12 Cost: $100 (10% discount for Discovery Passport Members)
New! Kindermusik – Creatures at the OceanDoes five weeks of fun by the ocean sound good to you? Kids explore sensory activities like feeling the sand between their toes as we sing "Sand in our Sandals" and make a variety of fun seaside crafts. This camp explores everything to do with the ocean. Ages 18 months for 3.5 years only. For more program information please contact Best Beginnings at 403-455-5137.Dates: Mondays, October 19 - November 16 Times: 9:30 - 10:30 am or 10:45 - 11:45 am Cost: $130 per child (One adult per child included in price)
Storytime at the Zoo Listen to all your favourite zoo and animal stories in the Discovery Centre. Every Thursday, zoo education volunteers read animal stories from a selection of children’s books and show neat things for kids to look at and touch. This program promotes literacy and animal awareness with stories suitable for children three to five years old. Dates: Thursdays, September 24 - December 10 Special Dates: World Animal Day Saturday, October 3 Christmas Storytime Saturday, December 5 Time: 11:00 - 11:30 am Cost: A $2 donation per child for the zoo’s education programs
World Animal
Day Celebrate our
wild world with special
nature tales and zookeeper talks.
Free with zoo admission!
October 3 and 4
10:00 am - 3:00 pm
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Space is limited. Call 403-232-9300 or visit www.calgaryzoo.com.
Zoo Photo Safari The zoo’s unique collection of plants, animals and birds makes for a sometimes challenging but highly rewarding photography experience. Join Barry Giles for a guided photo safari as you explore some of the tricks of successful zoo photography. We’ll look at a different area of the zoo each day, providing a wide range of subject matter. Working knowledge of your camera and its functions is required. Canadian Wilds Date: Saturday, August 15Destination Africa Date: Saturday, August 22Time: 8:30 am - 1:30 pm Cost: $65 each day
Drawing and Mixed MediaAre you looking to expand your drawing skills, or give drawing a try for the first time? At the zoo we have the perfect environment with great subject matter throughout the year. Using a variety of colour and black-and-white media (soft pastels/conte crayon, ink and watercolour), join instructor Averie Moppett as we explore drawing techniques and composition in this engaging class. Each session is unique so you are welcome to continue throughout the year. All levels welcome! Dates: Tuesdays, September 22 - October 27 or Tuesdays, November 10 - December 15 Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Cost: $230 plus supplies
Adult ProgrAms And Courses
Naturalist 101Did you ever want to be a biologist or zookeeper when you were growing up? Have you always wanted to understand more about the natural world around you? Join us as we explore reptiles, amphibians, birds, mammals, taxonomy, conservation and more using hands-on interactive learning techniques. This program is based on the zoo’s docent (education volunteer) training program – considered to be one of the top programs in North America – and has received rave reviews from teachers for providing them with a strong foundation in the world of natural history.Dates: Sundays, October 18 - November 29 Time: 9:30 am - 12:30 pm Cost: $250
Antarctica Natural History CourseLearn about the amazing adaptations, diversity and behaviour of the mammals, birds and plants that thrive on this very interesting continent. We will discuss ice formations, the importance of ocean
currents and the unique qualities of this habitat. Join zoo docent Wanda Pedersen, as she shares her personal journey and impressions of the continent.Date: Wednesdays, October 21 and 28 Time: 7:00 - 9:30pm Cost: $65
Los Galapagos Join us for a fascinating look into the natural history of Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands. Geology, history and conservation play a big role in the appeal of these isolated and unique islands. We’ll discuss the adaptations, diversity and behaviours of reptiles, mammals, birds and plants. This program is designed for those looking to enhance their enjoyment of a trip to the Galapagos or anyone interested in a little armchair travel.Date: Mondays, November 16, 23 and 30 Time: 7:00 - 9:00 pm Cost: $90
Leave a lasting legacy of conservation and education. Your gift will provide a brighter future for all species.
To learn more about the many ways of giving please contact Robert Locke at [email protected] or (403) 232-9382.
Charitable Registration # 118824192RR0001Photo: Garth Irvine
Seniors_Mag_Ad.indd 1 17/10/2008 4:06:57 PM
New Dates!
Speaker’s Bureau Looking for a unique speaker or presentation for your corporate event, banquet, community program or conference? The zoo offers a wide variety of nature, travel and horticulture presentations we can bring to you! Funds raised support the zoo’s Conservation Outreach programs. For more information, visit www.calgaryzoo.com or email [email protected].
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Family Programs Adult ProgrAms And Courses
Space is limited. Call 403-232-9300 or visit www.calgaryzoo.com.
Seniors’ ProgramsFall Canadian Wilds Club Car Safaris are available during September and are a great way to experience the sounds, sights and smells of fall.
Small Group Club Car Safaris use our electric club car, donated by Industrial Paramedic Services, to take four or five seniors on a personalized tour.
Zoo to You brings zoo education volunteers to you for a one-hour interactive presentation.
Seniors’ Zoolights let seniors groups view the zoo’s amazing seasonal light display. We use club cars and supply warm, cosy blankets.
To learn more about the zoo’s seniors’ programs, please contact Pauline at 403-294-7677 or [email protected]
An Evening at the Devonian Wildlife Conservation CentreJoin Curator Bob Peel and Devonian Wildlife Conservation Centre zookeepers for a walking tour and intimate evening at our beloved Zoo Ranch. You will get a rare opportunity to see endangered species such as whooping cranes, Vancouver Island marmots and Przewalski’s wild horses. Listen to zookeepers and see how they raise Canada’s rarest animals for release back to the wild. Relax in the comfort of the manager’s house, as we share amusing zoo stories while the sun sets on the horizon. Includes desserts and refreshments, proceeds will go towards the expansion of the whooping crane enclosures. For adult zoo members only.Date: Sunday, August 23 Time: 6:30 pm - Dusk Cost: $65
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Rowed Trip: Scotland to Syria by OarJoin bestselling authors Julie and Colin Angus as they share tales of their latest adventure and screen their new film to celebrate the launch of their book, Rowed Trip. The Canadian husband-and-wife team spent seven months rowing from Scotland to Syria through a maze of canals, rivers, seas and lakes passing through 12 countries and two continents in a journey connecting their ancestral homelands. From getting stranded in mud in the Thames Delta to having their trailer stolen in France, this is an inspiring and often hilarious account of extreme husband-and-wife vacationing. Date: Wednesday, November 4 Time: 7:00 - 9:00 pm Cost: $18 (10% discount for Discovery Passport Members) Energy and Water
EfficiencyDo you have good intentions, but don’t know where to start? As utility costs continue to rise, we all benefit from good conservation practices. Learn how to make your home more efficient with different types of power, light bulbs, timers, toilets and much more. Date: Wednesday, November 18 Time: 7:00 - 9:00 pm Cost: $20 (10% discount for Discovery Passport Members)
Coming soon!• Detox Your House• Shopping Responsibly• Sustainable Home Gardening
Eco-Friendly Home SeriesLearn how to green-up your home, garden and lifestyle in this new year-round series. Conscious Home and the zoo will share tips, address hot topics and dispel myths.
Step back in time with the zooRead about Noodles and Major, two black bears, and Barney the
monkey, who lived at the City’s first full-time fire department long before the zoo opened. It’s all in The Evolution of the Calgary Zoo – a history of the Calgary Zoo available at all zoo gift shops for the special price of $29.95. All proceeds from the sale of this hardcover book support the zoo’s Conservation Fund.
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A Little Sex, a Little Adventure, and a Bit of PassionAn Evening with Brian KeatingBrian has gone into his video archives, and put together some of his favourite video segments and a brand new whale shark video for this evening. Brian will take you on an adventure as only he can, because he was there, watching and filming in the thick of things. With persistence, good planning and plain old dumb luck, Brian happened upon more than you’ll bargain for during this sometimes humorous, often profound, and highly personal presentation. Date: Thursday, November 26 Time: 7:00 - 9:00 pm Cost: $25 (10% discount for Discovery Passport Members)
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Feast of KnowledgeA community harvest celebrationIf you are an experienced or aspiring food gardener, or love produce from farmers’ markets this event is for you. Enjoy lectures and displays of local produce as you learn about harvest and storage, and get recipes and tips for
various preserves. Share the sense of community created when people grow and learn together. Visit our website for details.Date: Sunday, October 4 Time: 1:00 - 4:00 pm Cost: $20 (10% discount for Discovery Passport Members)
Garden Designers Through the Ages Join gardener and artist Katherine Ylitalo for this seminar series on key historical and contemporary garden designers. From ancient Persia to current day, we will focus on significant gardening personalities whose work impacted their contemporaries, and whose influence is still felt today. Enhance your design skills and elevate your practise through an understanding of the historical perspective.
Dates: Tuesdays, November 10 - December 8 Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Cost: $185
Fabulous Fall ContainersDon’t give up on your containers just because frost is in the air. Corinne Hannah, the zoo’s horticulturist, will dazzle you with simple ways to transition your summer containers right through the late fall. A self-confessed container fanatic, Corinne will share her design ideas and tips as you watch her assemble sample containers.Date: Tuesday, September 15 Time: 6:30 - 8:30 pm Cost: $25 (10% discount for Discovery Passport Members)
Putting the Garden to Bed Tips for fall clean-upAs the days get longer and plants start to show the effects of frost, gardeners should make time for late season chores. But what needs to be done? Which plants to cut and which to leave? Join us to develop your skills and plan your strategy for fall garden care. Lecture will be followed by a demo in the Dorothy Harvie Gardens. Date: Sunday, September 20 Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Cost: $35 (10% discount for Discovery Passport Members)
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A GrowinG obsession For anyone who loves gardens, gardening and plants – everyone is welcome.
Space is limited. Call 403-232-9300 or visit www.calgaryzoo.com.
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Garden Design As another gardening season winds to a close, take the time to reflect on your garden’s performance. Did it function effectively or feel awkward and cramped? Did it please the eye? Are you envious of other gardens you’ve visited? Evaluating your landscape from a design perspective will allow you to take your garden to the next level. Learn from Sue Gaviller, a landscape design professional, as she cuts to the heart of the design process and the application of universal design principles. This lecture-style class includes lunch.Date: Sunday, October 18 Time: 9:30 am - 4:00 pm Cost: $100 (includes lunch)
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Woody Plant IDPerfect for serious beginners and seasoned veterans, this challenging course will teach you how to identify plants and introduce you to the universal language of Latin plant names so you can communicate with other gardeners. This 20-hour course sets the foundation for future gardening education and is a prerequisite for several of the zoo’s horticulture courses, including the Master Gardener Training Program. Dates: Wednesdays, September 9 - November 4 or Saturdays, September 12 - November 7 Time: 9:00 - 11:30 am Cost: $199 (includes course materials)
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Horticultural Therapy Certificate Course We are pleased to offer this certificate course taught by Christine Pollard of Home Farm. The five modules can be used towards professional registration with the Canadian Horticulture Therapy Association and can be taken independently or as part of the series. For a full schedule of dates and descriptions visit www.calgaryzoo.com. For more information or to register, please call Tania at 403-232-9353.
Module 1: An Introduction This course will define the terms Horticultural Therapy (HT) and the role of horticultural therapists. Learn how HT has evolved, is used today, and how horticultural therapists are part of an interdisciplinary team. Understand how a horticultural activity becomes HT, the benefits of HT and how HT relates to basic human needs. Dates: Wednesday, September 30 - Sunday, October 4 Time: 9:00 am - 4:30 pm Cost: Module 1 is $625. Full Series Registration is $2,750 ($550 per module).
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Advanced Plant IDThis course will follow the same format as Woody Plant ID, continuing to challenge your plant identification skills by covering an additional 50 to 60 trees and shrubs. Some are commonly seen in Calgary, while others are underused or unusual. Several Alberta native trees and shrubs will also be included.Prerequisite: Woody Plant IDDates: Saturdays, September 12 - November 7 Time: 9:00 - 11:30 am Cost: $199
Herbaceous Plant IDTake an in-depth look at approximately 60 perennials, annuals, bulbs, groundcovers and vines. The focus is on identification with the help of photos, pressed plant samples and plant walks in the gardens. We look at the cultivation and use, Latin names and identification terminology. Completion of Woody Plant ID is an asset.Dates: Thursdays, September 10 - November 5 Time: 9:00 - 11:30 am Cost: $199
Landscape Design Level IIGarden design is a fascinating, complex topic, and we hope to continue your learning. This class maintains the same student/teacher ratio as Level I, enhancing your skills with subjects such as colour theory, design themes and design philosophies. Instructors include zoo staff and local experts. Prerequisite: Landscape Design Level 1 (or equivalent with
instructor permission)Dates: Fridays, September 11 - October 30 Time: 10:00 am - 2:30 pm Cost: $415 plus supplies
Digging DeeperFor more experienced gardeners seeking to improve their skills – experience is an asset but not mandatory.
Landscape Design Level 1 This comprehensive, 16-week course covers all aspects of how to manually draft and design a landscape. If you are interested in entering a design-centred career or just want to design your own outdoor living space, this introductory course is for you. Hands-on experience and peer support are the focus as you work with a real client to design their landscape. Prerequisite: Woody Plant IDDates: Thursdays, November 12 - March 11 or Saturdays, November 14 - March 13 (two weeks off for Christmas break) Time: 9:00 am - 2:30 pm Cost: $1,065 plus supplies (price includes two text books)
Master Gardener Training Program This program provides Calgary-area gardeners with relevant information for successful gardening in the Chinook zone. All topics are taught by enthusiastic and knowledgeable instructors including zoo horticulture staff and industry experts. This is the classroom training required for those seeking to gain Master Gardener status, but is open to all interested parties. Please read the detailed program description at www.calgaryzoo.com for more information.Prerequisite: Woody Plant ID Dates: Saturdays, November 14 - March 13 (two weeks off for Christmas break) Time: 9:00 - 3:30 pm Cost: $450 plus supplies
DynaSCAPE Take your design practise to the next level by learning how to use this computer-assisted landscape design program. Visit www.calgaryzoo.com for details.Dates: Starts November 2009 Six weekly sessions, four hours each (allowing practice time between sessions). Cost: $750
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Bath Bombs, Truffles and SaltsCreate luxurious gifts for yourself or to give as a Christmas gift. Learn to make a large batch of fizzy bath bombs, a super-softening bath truffle and soothing mineral aromatherapy-scented bath salts. Presented by Soap and More.Dates: Tuesday, November 17 or Thursday, December 3 Time: 7:00 - 9:00 pm Cost: $40
Lotions, Potions and Body ButterCraft lotions, creams and body butters using top quality ingredients like shea and mango butter. The perfect Christmas present – if you don’t decide to keep them all for yourself! Presented by Soap and More.Date: Thursday, November 19 or Tuesday, December 1 Time: 7:00 - 8:30 pm Cost: $45
Aromatherapy CandlesCraft your own environmentally green candles including three container candles, a glass jar, a smaller glass container, a travelling aromatherapy candle and two natural tea lights. Presented by Soap and More.Date: Tuesday, November 24 Time: 7:00 - 9:00 pm Cost: $45
fri nov 27 2009 – sun jan 3 2010 closed christmas day and
excluding dec 31
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm gates close at 8:30
adults $8 children $5
for more details visit www.calgaryzoo.ca
• remax holiday video postcard
• santa vision chat live with santa
• kids play areas including snowball alley, snow bowling, the reindeer
stables and snigloo
• creamy hot chocolate and crackling fire pits
• the festival of choirs
Surround your family with the beauty and splendour of over
1.5 million twinkling lights. This interactive light show immerses you
in the spirit of the season and will tempt all five senses with:
Zoolights5.5x7Ad.indd 1 6/24/09 9:23:29 PM
Christmas Programs and EvEnts
Space is limited. Call 403-232-9300 or visit www.calgaryzoo.com.
Brunch with Santa Join us for a delicious buffet breakfast, a fun family-friendly interpretive show and then follow
Santa to the African Savannah building after brunch for a visit and photo opportunity! The show this year will follow characters Beaver and Caribou as they embark on a new winter adventure that can be enjoyed by the whole family.Date: Saturday, December 12 Times: 9:00 am or 11:30 am Cost: Adult/Youth $36.95 Senior $34.95 Child $22.95 (Children under three are free, but must have a ticket to attend)
Groups of 10 or more can
book a private Wreath Making or Centrepiece
program. Contact
Estelle at 403-232-9362
to book your date.
Christmas SwagMake a beautiful Christmas swag to display in your home for the holiday season out of all-natural products that are easy to find.Date: Sunday, November 29 Times: 10:00 - 11:30 am or 12:30 - 2:00 pm Cost: $60
New!
New!
New!
New!
New!
New!
New!
Natural Melt and Pour SoapLearn to melt, colour and scent a 100 per cent natural soap base using a simple and fun technique. Presented by Soap and More.Date: Thursday, November 26 Time: 7:00 - 9:00 pm Cost: $45
New!
Wreath MakingDesign and construct a beautiful outdoor wreath for the holiday season! Our instructor will help you create a wreath made of easy-to-find natural materials.Dates: Saturdays, November 21 or 28 or Sunday, November 22 Times: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm or 1:00 - 3:00 pm Cost: $65
Christmas CentrepieceDesign and construct a table centrepiece that will be the envy of all your friends! Gerda White, longtime zoo horticulture volunteer, shares her expertise using easy-to-find natural materials.Dates: Saturday, December 5 or Sunday, December 6 Time: 1:00 - 3:00 pm Cost: $65
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MeMbership News
Go green! Read your newsletter on-line
Don’t miss out on a great offer in 2009!
Buy a new adult Discovery Passport membership in 2009 and you will receive a $20 dinner coupon from one of Calgary’s most popular family establishments.
Purchase or renew an adult Annual Pass and receive a $10 dinner coupon valid at five participating Smitty’s Family Restaurants.
Remember to keep your card!Did you know your membership card is reusable? Keeping your card not only saves you money (we charge $5 to reprint lost or discarded cards), but it also saves administrative costs for the zoo. Additionally, reusing your card reduces waste – imagine if all of our 80,000 members recycled their cards year after year.
Parking lot updateMembers – thank you for your patience!
To register for zoo programs
Zoo admission included before noon.Sundays, 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
One great price, one great day.
Safari Brunch
calgaryzoo.com
To register for a zoo education program, call 403-232-9300 or visit the Calgary Zoo Guest Relations Desk at the North Entrance (9:00 am - 5:00 pm daily).
Online registrationIf there is a computer mouse icon beside the program dates, you can register at www.calgaryzoo.com.
DiscountsCalgary Zoo Discovery Passport Members receive a discount on select programs.
Please noteUnless otherwise listed, program fees do not include GST and are nonrefundable and nonexchangeable. Registrations are accepted in the order in which fees are
received. For all programs, enter via the Calgary Zoo’s North Entrance. Please note that prices and dates of programs are subject to change.
As we work through the upgrades to the North Parking Lot we thank you for your patience. Over the next year we will be working to organize and upgrade the lot to provide a safer environment for our valued members and all other zoo guests.
While non-members and LRT users will be charged a $5 flat rate fee, members
will enjoy complimentary parking when visiting the zoo! Complimentary parking will begin each morning at 8:45 am to allow you to get an early start to your zoo visit!
Thank you for your continued support as a member of The Calgary Zoo!
Did you know that receiving your newsletter by email can help our conservation efforts? You’ll be saving trees and the zoo will redirect the money it saves in mailing and printing costs toward its conservation programs.
Simply email your request to [email protected] and let us know that you would like to participate. We will discontinue your hard copy newsletter and send you an email message each time a new issue is published. Thank you for going green!
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Kids’ Corner
Cert no. SW-COC-001383
We thought we’d say goodbye to our visiting koalas with a colouring and word search activity. Send your completed Kids’ Corner entry to the address listed at the bottom of this page, along with your name, age and telephone number by September 15, 2009. You could win a prize! Congratulations to the winner from our Summer 2009 issue, ten-year-old Isabel Hogan.
Koala colouring contest
eucalyptus Australia koalamarsupial mammal pouchjoey claws
Test your koala vocabularySee if you can find some words you might have heard while visiting the koalas at the zoo.
Z W Z U P O U C H W I Q T
U E J E U C A L Y P T U S
M L C I H S C C U K T J Q
P F V S I T Z A S O Q B J
M A R S U P I A L A I L O
A P L A U S T R A L I A E
M U Q V D V R I W A W J Y
M Y G X N O B O A L A P J
A O E Y C L A W S Q X B H
L R K H D L S Q B J N J V
We welcome and value your comments and
suggestions about this newsletter. If your address has changed or if you would like more information on donation options, please
contact us at:
The Calgary Zoo 1300 Zoo Road NE, Calgary, Alberta
T2E 7V6 Phone: 403-232-9300 Fax: 403-237-7582
Please send me information about: Conservation Education Programs Legacy Giving Annual Giving
I have enclosed a gift of: $100 $50 $25 Other $______
Charitable Registration # 118824192 RR0001