Your complete resource for Zoo news

From late-breaking news to our vital statistics, we want to keep you informed about what's happening at Denver Zoo.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Tiffany Barnhart - Director of Communications
tbarnhart@denverzoo.org

Sean Andersen-Vie - Public Relations Specialist
sandersenvie@denverzoo.org


2008 stories

2007 stories


June 2009

DENVER ZOO WELCOMES RARE ALBINO DUCKLING
Albino Hatchling Unlikely to Survive in Wild, but Doing Just Ducky at Zoo

DENVER ZOO DISPLAYS RARE SPIRAL ALOE PLANT - No Other Public Institution in Colorado or Neighboring States Currently Displays Plant

Denver Zoo Unveils Biomass Gasification Model at Do At The Zoo Fundraiser Gala - Poop to Power a Reality as the Zoo Moves Forward with Gasifier

NEW AMUR TIGER POUNCES INTO DENVER ZOO - New Female Tiger to be paired with Resident Male

May 2009

DENVER ZOO TESTS BACTRIAN CAMEL TRACKING COLLARS - Researchers Hope Collars Will Help Save Critically-Endangered Species

DENVER ZOO SAFETY EXPERT ELECTED TO NATIONAL BOARD - Trish Ennis Elected VP of Professional Development for American Society of Safety Engineers

DENVER ZOO WELCOMES AFRICAN LONGHORN - Visitors Can See New Ankole Calf Now

DENVER ZOO CELEBRATES RARE AYE-AYE BIRTH
New Arrival is Only Second of Species Born in North American Zoos


April 2009

DENVER ZOO MEMBERSHIP CAMPAIGN HITS BULLSEYE - Membership Consultants Wins Prestigious Arrow Marketing Campaign Award

DENVER ZOO EXPERT TALKS TRASH AT GREEN FESTIVAL - Green Leader to Discuss Meaningful Conservation Action & Gasification 5 p.m. May 3

BREAKFAST IS FOR THE BIRDS AT DENVER ZOO - Guests Will Enjoy an Up Close Look at Zoo’s Birds Along with Fine Breakfast

Denver Zoo Animals Vie to be Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children Mascot
Vote Online for Your Favorite Animal!

DENVER ZOO THROWS PARTY FOR THE PLANET - Disneynature Joins Celebration as Youth Showcases Projects April 22 & 23

Denver Zoo Primates Paint in Preparation for APE-ril Events - Orangutan Fundraiser & APE-ril Activities Bring Primate Conservation to Public

BLIZZARD BRINGS GIRAFFE AT DENVER ZOO - Visitors Can See Baby Giraffe Calf “Blizzard” at Giraffe House

DENVER ZOO ANNOUNCES IMPORTANT STAFF CHANGES - New and Promoted Staff to Improve Zoo Operations

March 2009

Something for Everyone At Denver Zoo Events - Spring and Summer Special Events at Denver Zoo

DENVER ZOO HOPES NEW CHEETAH MAKES FAST FRIENDS - New Female Cheetah to be Paired with Resident Male

Mayor Hickenlooper, Denver Zoo Officials & Sea Lion Announce Significant Sustainability Milestone for City

February 2009

ENDANGERED GOLDEN LION TAMARIN BORN AT DENVER ZOO - Visitors Can See Tiny Newborn on Exhibit with Parents and Siblings in Emerald Forest

TALL ORDER ARRIVES AT DENVER ZOO - Visitors Can See Baby Giraffe Calf “Pongo”at Giraffe House

DENVER ZOO SEEKS GREEN CHAMPION
Sustainability Coordinator to Help Fulfill Environmental Goals

Denver Zoo Celebrates Attendance Records - 2008 Attendance Numbers Are the Second Highest in Zoo History Zoo Membership Reaches All-Time High

January 2009

DENVER ZOO ANDEAN CONDOR TO GO BACK TO THE WILD - Condor Receives Final Vet Exam Before First of Two Moves




June 25, 2009

DENVER ZOO WELCOMES RARE ALBINO DUCKLING - Albino Hatchling Unlikely to Survive in Wild, but Doing Just Ducky at Zoo

Denver Zoo recently welcomed a rare and pigment-less sight to its family. A female albino mandarin duckling was hatched on May 30. Though the duckling will eventually be on display, she is currently growing and developing with the rest of her clutch under the watchful eye of bird keepers in the zoo’s Bird Propagation Center.

Normal adult Mandarins are among the most colorful duck species. They have red bills, red whisker-like stripes running down their necks, and two vertical white stripes near their breast. While most of the newborn ducklings from the clutch are currently brown and developing stripes, the albino duckling has pink eyes and bright yellow feathers, features that won’t change much as it matures. Albinism is an inherited trait characterized by partial or total lack of pigmentation.

Mandarin ducks are closely related to the North American wood duck commonly found in local ponds and streams. They can grow to about 20 inches long with 30 inch wingspans. Mandarins are found across East Asia. While they are relatively abundant in the wild, albinos are very rare.

Zoo experts say birds with albinism don’t tend to thrive in nature because they don’t camouflage well with their environment making them more vulnerable to predators. They are also more prone to eye ailments due to the sun’s exposure to their extra sensitive eyes. Bird keepers will take every precaution to make sure to keep their new albino duckling covered and protected from the sun.



June 23, 2009

DENVER ZOO DISPLAYS RARE SPIRAL ALOE PLANT - No Other Public Institution in Colorado or Neighboring States Currently Displays Plant

Denver Zoo is home to more than just animals. A recent and remarkable addition to the zoo’s botanical collection is the endangered aloe polyphylla, or spiral aloe. The unique plant is prized for its beauty, rarity and difficulty to grow well in cultivation. Visitors to Denver Zoo can see the exotic plant now by the mongoose exhibit near Predator Ridge.

"Of all the plants I know Aloe polyphylla is my favorite, and one that needs our help in order to survive in nature," said Zoo Horticulturist Scott Preusser. "I really feel lucky to be able to successfully grow it and be able to see live specimens of this plant every day."

Of the 324 species of aloe, this is the only one found growing naturally at altitudes of over 7,500 feet, normally found in the steep slopes in the Drakensberg Mountains of South Africa. It gets its common name from the magnificent spirally-arranged rosette formed by five rows of leaves. It can grow up to three feet tall.

While adapted to this unique location it is threatened by grazing livestock and illegal collection. According to experts, without help this plant will become extinct in its native habitat. Denver Zoo horticulturists plan to cultivate this endangered plant. Denver Zoo staff horticulturist Scott Preusser received a $150 grant from the Colorado Cactus and Succulent Society which covered half the cost.

The spiral aloe will be displayed from mid-May to mid-October, weather permitting.



June 15, 2009

Denver Zoo Unveils Biomass Gasification Model at Do At The Zoo Fundraiser Gala - Poop to Power a Reality as the Zoo Moves Forward with Gasifier

Denver Zoo is at the cutting edge of testing and applying renewable and sustainable energy systems to produce local, on-site electricity and heat through the development of a biomass gasification system. This biomass gasification system, which will utilize the zoo’s diverse waste stream consisting of human trash and animal waste to power its upcoming Asian Tropics exhibit, is a green technological breakthrough that will support the zoo’s efforts to reduce landfill contributions by 95 percent, reducing 1.5 million pounds per year currently going to landfill and reducing energy and hauling costs by $150,000 a year. The gasifier will chemically convert waste using a high temperature, low oxygen process to convert it to a usable combustible gas.

“What’s unique about this process is the utilization of a diverse waste stream into clean energy through gasification. Gasification has been used in the past, but never with a varied waste stream like the zoo has. In addition gasification at a facility scale could be used in many industries to make a huge positive impact on the environment on a global level,” says Denver Zoo VP for Planning and Capital Projects George Pond.

During the early phases of design development, the zoo forged a partnership with the National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL) and other experts to explore renewable energy options.  At the conclusion of a workshop and at the recommendation of the group, Denver Zoo chose biomass gasification as a viable source of renewable energy. 

To fully understand the possibilities of this system, the zoo has evaluated the quantity, composition and energy content of all of its waste streams, including office products, packaging, concession waste, hay, animal food and animal waste in order to quantify the available energy in the zoo’s waste stream as a function of season and visitor count.  The zoo is now creating computer simulation models of the gasification system to test the various components of the operation and evaluate their individual and systematic characteristics.  The simulation is executed using actual zoo waste data (time and weight) from the scale located in the existing waste management area.  By modeling this very complex operation, the zoo can determine the best technologies for the system, properly size all of the components and find valuable efficiencies.

The gasification system will meet the most stringent emissions standards and will produce one bi-product:  ash, which can be used as a soil amendment in flower beds throughout the zoo.  The zoo will use the electricity created to operate motors and pumps needed in the new exhibit, and the hot water that is created will heat the 18,000 square foot elephant center and 11,000 square foot rhino/tapir holding facility, which will have radiant heat in the floors and walls.  Cold water can be “tempered” and used for cleaning and filling the pools with warm water. 

Occupying 10-acres on the southern edge of the zoo, Asian Tropics is a $50 million conservation center devoted to highly-endangered Asian species including elephants, Indian rhinos and Malayan tapirs. The expansive complex will allow visitors to explore and discover the rich history of animals in Asian culture, their complicated relationship with humans and the efforts of Denver Zoo and its partners around the world to protect their futures.

Denver Zoo continues to raise $10 million needed to complete Asian Tropics and groundbreaking is planned later this year.



June 10, 2009

NEW AMUR TIGER POUNCES INTO DENVER ZOO - New Female Tiger to be paired with Resident Male

A 3-year-old female Amur tiger, named Koshka (Koosh-kuh), arrived at Denver Zoo in December and is now on public exhibit. Koshka comes to Denver Zoo from Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo on a breeding loan sanctioned by the Association of Zoo’s and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan (SSP). She was brought to Denver Zoo in the hopes she would mate with 5-year-old resident male tiger, Waldemere (Wald-uh-meer).

Amur tigers are classified as critically endangered, with an estimated population of less than 400 individuals remaining in the wild. Besides habitat loss, their biggest threat comes from poaching, both for their fur and their other body parts which are used in traditional Chinese medicine. They are now almost completely confined to the Far East portion of Asia along the Amur River. Because of this they are now commonly called Amur tigers.

Amur tigers are the largest member of the cat family. They can grow to nearly four-feet-tall and more than seven-feet-long. Koshka is smaller than Waldemere, weighing in at more than 280 pounds during her wellness exam, while Waldemere weighs an estimated 340 pounds. Amur tigers also have longer hair and more white on their coats than other tigers.

Koshka recently moved onto exhibit after a standard quarantine period and is now getting settled into her new digs. She will eventually be introduced to her future mate, Waldemere.

The tiger exchange is part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Special Survival Plan (SSP), which helps to ensure the survival of selected wildlife species. The program manages the breeding of a species in order to ensure healthy populations and genetic diversity among animals. Most species in the SSP program are endangered or threatened in the wild.

May 21, 2009

DENVER ZOO TESTS BACTRIAN CAMEL TRACKING COLLARS - Researchers Hope Collars Will Help Save Critically-Endangered Species

Denver Zoo’s Bactrian camels are making a fashion statement to help their wild relatives. Denver Zoo is testing special collars worn by the camels that will be used to keep track of wild camels’ movements through their native habitat, the Gobi Desert. Researchers hope information gathered by the collars will provide a better understanding of the camels and help researchers develop strategic tactics to save the critically-endangered species.

It is estimated there are less than 2,000 Bactrian camels in the wild. They are particularly difficult to study as they are known to travel long distances, often thousands of miles of territory in a single year over sparsely vegetated and difficult to traverse terrain. Researchers want to better understand the reason wild camels’ numbers are so small, which requires better understanding of their ecology.

The new collars will use GPS and Blue Tooth technology, working in concert with small computers stored in base stations located near oases throughout the desert. When camels get within 200 meters of a base station, small computers inside the collars will communicate with the computers in the station using Blue Tooth technology. The base stations will then upload location data collected and stored on the collars. Data will help track the position of wild camels to help scientists understand movement patterns and habitat use. Both collars and base stations are solar powered and the collars themselves weigh about two pounds.

The collars being tested at Denver Zoo remain inactivated. Instead, they are being tested for durability. Similar collars previously deployed in Mongolia fell off earlier than the researchers had wanted, leading to a new design that will hopefully last at least two years of the rugged life that camels lead in the harsh Gobi Desert. Denver Zoo’s camels have already torn through two collars. Researchers have now redesigned another collar that is currently being tested.

Denver Zoo’s involvement is a great example of how working with animals in a zoo can help save animals in the wild. Since 1996 Denver Zoo has been involved more than 475 field conservation and research projects in 54 countries. This past year, Denver Zoo was involved in more than 70 projects in on five continents. Our work has a large focus in Mongolia, South America and South East Asia and includes helping a wide range of animals from the nearly-extinct in the wild Panamanian golden frog to Asian elephants. Both animals that visitors can see and learn about on property.




May 20, 2009

DENVER ZOO SAFETY EXPERT ELECTED TO NATIONAL BOARD - Trish Ennis Elected VP of Professional Development for American Society of Safety Engineers

Denver Zoo is proud to announce Trish Ennis, Denver Zoo’s Director of Workplace Safety, has been elected Vice President of Professional Development to the national board of directors of the American Society of Safety Engineers, the country’s largest and oldest professional safety organization. The election to the board shows Ennis’s recognized accomplishments in the field of safety training.

Ennis has more than 20 years experience in safety and loss control, providing safety services for a number of municipalities, public and private entities and construction firms nationwide. She started at Denver Zoo in January 2009 and works closely with all of the zoo’s departments to further strengthen safety programs.

She will assume her ASSE board position on July 1. Among her many duties will be to work with ASSE members and staff to plan the annual conference and other educational offerings including virtual online seminars. She will also oversee the publication of the Professional Safety magazine and other ASSE publications.

Founded in 1911, the Des Plaines, IL-based ASSE is the largest and oldest professional safety organization and is committed to protecting people, property and the environment. Its more than 32,000 occupational safety, health and environmental professional members lead, manage, supervise, research and consult on safety, health, transportation and environmental issues in all industries, government, labor, health care and education.

May 14, 2009

DENVER ZOO WELCOMES AFRICAN LONGHORN - Visitors Can See New Ankole Calf Now

Denver Zoo is celebrating the birth of a long-horned Ankole (Ann-cole-ee) female calf that was born on May 2. The little lady, named Belle, may not have any horns yet, but her species, native to central and southern Africa, has the longest horns of any cattle breed in the world. They are also sometimes referred to a Watusi (Wah-Too-see).Visitors can see Belle on display with her family now.

Belle was born to father, Ralph, and mother, Trixie. Along with second female, Alice, the trio was all named after characters from The Honeymooners. Belle is already exploring her yard on her own, but often stays close to the adults as they form a triangular formation for defense.

Although similar to the Texas longhorn, Ankole horns are more than just for show. This animal’s horns act as a cooling mechanism, providing reprieve from the hot African sun. Blood flows through the horns to the tip dispensing heat along the way. The blood returns to the body cooler lowering the body temperature. Be careful, though! These amazing creatures are very strong and use their horns for defense.

Male Ankole can weigh up to 1,600 pounds. Females follow close behind weighing in at 1,200 pounds. Belle’s got a long way to go as she only weighs about 63 pounds right now. Trixie and Alice are mostly brown with white spots while Ralph and Belle are mostly white with brown splotches.

May 7, 2009

DENVER ZOO CELEBRATES RARE AYE-AYE BIRTH - New Arrival is Only Second of Species Born in North American Zoos

The newborn had a low birth weight, but Denver Zoo veterinary and primate staff diligently provided supplemental care and intense management of mom and infant. Eventually this resulted in appropriate weight gains and successful maternal care by the infant’s mother. His weight at birth was 82 grams, but he soon doubled that in roughly two week’s time to 164 grams as of May 4, 2009.

The infant was born to mother, Salem and father, Ozony, both of whom came to Denver Zoo last year. The breeding pair, both 7-years-old, arrived from the Duke Lemur Center in North Carolina under recommendation of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) which ensures healthy populations and genetic diversity among zoo animals. Fortunately, the couple has proved to be an excellent match.

Aye-ayes are the world’s largest nocturnal primate, weighing up to six pounds, and are found only in Madagascar. This prosimian species is so unique it is classified in a family all its own, called Daubentoniidae. Aye-ayes look like no other animal living today, their monkey-like body, squirrel-like tail, large eyes and elongated middle fingers make them easily distinguishable from any other primate. They use their long, curved middle digits, which can be up to three times longer than the others, to pull insects out of holes in trees. 

They are classified as endangered by the World Conservation Union (IUCN) due to habitat loss and illegal hunting. Some native populations believe these primates are an evil omen and the sighting of one is said to predict the death of a villager and the only way to prevent this is to kill the aye-aye. They are also a rare site in zoos, as there is only one other zoo, the San Francisco Zoo, that houses these rare animals. Including the aye ayes at the Duke Lemur Center, there are only 25 aye-ayes in North America.

The Duke Lemur Center is the only university-based facility in the world devoted to the study of prosimian primates. It is home to the world's largest colony of endangered primates, including more than 250 lemurs, bush babies, lorises and the largest captive population of aye-ayes in North America.

April 30, 2009

DENVER ZOO MEMBERSHIP CAMPAIGN HITS BULLSEYE - Membership Consultants Wins Prestigious Arrow Marketing Campaign Award

Denver Zoo’s 2008 membership campaign won a prestigious Arrow Award from the Direct Marketing Association of St. Louis. The awards, announced April 8, are unique among award competitions for their emphasis on measurable results based on creativeness and originality.

Zoo Membership staff say there are a few reasons for the success. The first was the design of the enveloped mailers. The front of each envelope had a colorful, attention-grabbing design featuring the campaign logo, “Take a leap.” The back of each envelope contained all pertinent information and the mailing address window. Denver Zoo membership billboards were located all around Denver with the similar designs of the envelopes. Finally, people who signed up for memberships received a discount.

The results speak for themselves. In July of 2008, Denver Zoo celebrated an all-time high membership with more than 64,000 households, translating to roughly 224,000 individuals. Denver Zoo continues to have the largest membership of all cultural attractions in Colorado. Staff say recent enhancements such as Predator Ridge, enhanced experiences such as keeper talks and animal demonstrations all offered at an affordable price encourages repeat visitation.

“We believe a Denver Zoo membership offers a tremendous experience at a tremendous value,” said Denver Zoo Membership Director Mary Bradley. “How wonderful for our members to have the opportunity to have first-hand experiences in seeing the animals, becoming educated while enjoying themselves.”

Denver Zoo’s membership efforts also took a second place Arrow award in 2004.

April 28, 2009

George Pond on the right and Paul Quick test the “Poo Juicer,”.

DENVER ZOO EXPERT TALKS TRASH AT GREEN FESTIVAL - Green Leader to Discuss Meaningful Conservation Action & Gasification 5 p.m. May 3

Denver Zoo VP for Planning and Capital Projects George Pond will present “It’s not easy being truly green” at the Denver Green Festival on May 3 at 5 p.m. The presentation will show the zoo’s evolution of becoming an environmentally-friendly organization and how green initiatives ultimately support animal conservation.

Integrating sustainability and top environmental practices into any business is not an easy task. Doing it at a zoo adds a new level of complexity. As an organization dedicated to conservation, it is paramount that Denver Zoo lead green initiatives, serving as an environmental champion for its animals and as an example for the community. Attendees to this lecture can learn the groundbreaking environmental technologies the zoo is implementing in conjunction with its globally-recognized sustainable management system and how these efforts are saving the environment and the zoo’s pocketbook.

The lecture will also feature information on the zoo’s new gasification system which will utilize zoo trash and animal waste for the planned Asian Tropics exhibit. Denver Zoo will become the first facility to utilize small scale gasification to convert a diverse waste stream into heat and power to be distributed on campus – a green technological breakthrough. Guests can see the zoo’s “Poo Juicer,” a device designed to remove the liquid from animal waste to prepare it for use in the gasification system.

Pond is a Landscape Architect who serves as the VP for Planning and Capital Projects for Denver Zoo. His vision guides many of Denver zoo’s eco-friendly initiatives, including the workplace conservation committee, waste-to-energy gasification technology, water conservation, promoting alternative transportation efforts for employees, and the planned LEED Certified Asian Tropics exhibit.

As a sponsor of the event, Denver Zoo members can attend for free by simply by showing their zoo membership ID card.

April 27, 2009

BREAKFAST IS FOR THE BIRDS AT DENVER ZOO - Guests Will Enjoy an Up Close Look at Zoo’s Birds Along with Fine Breakfast

Denver Zoo is celebrating the migration of birds by offering a unique dining experience with its fine-feathered friends. In conjunction with International Migratory Bird Day, Denver Zoo will host Breakfast with the Birds from 8 to 10 a.m., Saturday, May 9. Guests will be treated to a fine morning meal and learn how the zoo cares for its extraordinary bird collection.

The event will provide insight into the travels birds must make, over thousands of miles, across two continents, through storms and unimaginable odds to celebrate spring in the Rocky Mountains. Guests will also enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the zoo’s revolutionary bird propagation center and be among the first to participate in an exclusive flamingo meet and greet.

The early bird gets the worm but this breakfast will be invertebrate free consisting of tomato, basil and cheese frittata, sugar-cured honey hickory ham, homemade breakfast potatoes, fresh fruit, assorted pastries, orange juice and shade grown coffee.
The cost of admission is $50. Proceeds will support all of Denver Zoo’s conservation efforts. Seating is limited! Buy your tickets today by calling 303-376-6741 or visiting our website at www.denverzoo.org. Guests must be 16 years of age or over.

April 24, 2009

Denver Zoo Animals Vie to be Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children Mascot
Vote Online for Your Favorite Animal!

Denver Zoo animals are vying for votes to become HealthONE’s Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children animal mascot! Five Denver Zoo species are campaigning for the honor including mountain lion, grizzly bear, red panda, penguin and river otter. 

“It’s definitely the wildest campaign we’ve ever seen. It’s amazing to see so many people are following the campaign and to see the election strategy that the candidates are using. I think it will come down to the wire,” says Matt Sogard, Chief Operating Officer for Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children..

Log on to www.healthonecares.com or www.denverzoo.org to pick your favorite today. Voters should be sure to sign up to receive Denver Zoo’s e-mail Zoo-Bulletin and the Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children e-bulletin to hear which animal won!

The Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children at Presbyterian/St. Luke’s Medical Center (P/SL) has helped families from across the Rocky Mountains and Great Plains for nearly 20 years with specialized children's medical services. Construction is under way for a state-of-the-art facility on P/SL’s campus at 20th and High Street in Denver. The Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children at P/SL will move into its new home in 2010.

Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children is an important expansion of HealthONE's current pediatric services available at each of its acute care hospitals. Other HealthONE hospitals will become affiliates of Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children, ensuring the same high quality of pediatric care at each location.  Some will have pediatric multi-specialty centers bringing pediatric specialty doctors directly to the community for the convenience of families who live in the surrounding areas.

Denver Zoo is proud to partner with HealthONE’s Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children. We hope you will become involved in the effort to choose the best animal mascot to pounce into children’s hearts. Vote online today at DenverZoo.org!

About The Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children:  Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children (RMHC) is a regional resource for specialty pediatric care founded nearly twenty years ago by private practice pediatric specialists at HealthONE’s Presbyterian/St. Luke’s Medical Center in central Denver.  It is home to the region’s largest and most successful high-risk maternity service and an 84-bed intensive care newborn nursery—keeping mothers and babies together in the same hospital for optimal care.  RMHC will move into a new, $113 million pediatric facility opening on the P/SL campus in 2010, expanding its pediatric services into a new 64-bed inpatient unit and creating additional operating room and pediatric intensive care areas.

Visit www.RockyMountainHospitalforChildren.com or call 877-HealthONE for a physician, book an appointment and for all your other health needs.

April 15, 2009

DENVER ZOO THROWS PARTY FOR THE PLANET - Disneynature Joins Celebration as Youth Showcases Projects April 22 & 23

In celebration of Disneynature’s release of the motion picture “EARTH,” opening in theatres nationwide on April 22, 2009 area students are invited to join the Denver Zoo’s Community Leadership Project, Front Range Earth Force and local schools in the zoo’s two-day Earth Day Party for the Planet. Visitors can learn how to help the planet from the next generation of conservationists and view projects created by children grades K-12 during Denver Zoo’s annual Youth Summit, Denver's premiere event for local service-learning students, demonstrating and celebrating the positive impact they have on their environment.

Special Offers for Fans of EARTH:

Win “EARTH” prizes from Disneynature:  Text the word PLANET and your ZIP CODE to 43549 to enter random drawing. Winners will receive a text with details on how to claim prize. Texting 43549 is free.  (Example text: PLANET 80202). No purchase necessary.

Buy a Ticket, Plant a Tree:  Disneynature will plant a tree in honor of each ticket purchased to see “EARTH” during opening week (April 22-28).

About “EARTH”:  The first in the Disneynature lineup of films, “EARTH,” narrated by JAMES EARL JONES, tells the remarkable story of three animal families and their amazing journeys across the planet we all call home.  “EARTH” combines rare action, unimaginable scale and impossible locations by capturing the most intimate moments of our planet’s wildest and most elusive creatures.  Directors Alastair Fothergill and Mark Linfield, the acclaimed creative team behind the Emmy Award®-winning “Planet Earth,” combine forces again to bring this epic adventure to the big screen. 

Rated G, “EARTH” opens in theatres on Earth Day, April 22, 2009.  www.disney.com/nature

April 14, 2009

Denver Zoo Primates Paint in Preparation for APE-ril Events - Orangutan Fundraiser & APE-ril Activities Bring Primate Conservation to Public

Denver Zoo’s gorillas and orangutans have been painting this week to create artwork to raise funds at the Zoo’s 1st Annual Primate Fundraiser, in celebration of APE-ril. Two special events are planned this week to support primate conservation. On the evening of April 16, guest speaker Dr. Serge Wich will discuss the complexities surrounding the conservation of Sumatran orangutans with proceeds benefiting this critically endangered species and on April 18 & 19, the zoo will celebrate APE-ril with special activities showcasing the wonders of primates. To further support ape conservation, guests who donate their old cell phones and ink cartridges will receive $2 off APE-ril gate admission.



April 3, 2009

BLIZZARD BRINGS GIRAFFE AT DENVER ZOO - Visitors Can See Baby Giraffe Calf “Blizzard” at Giraffe House - See Video!

While Denver was digging out of its spring break winter storm last week, Denver Zoo welcomed the birth of a cool new giraffe, named Blizzard. Visitors will be blown away by this six-foot-two, 165-pound baby. Born Friday, March 27, the calf can now be seen with his mother at the zoo’s giraffe exhibit.

Blizzard was born to mother, Kipele and father, Dikembe. The calf brings the zoo’s giraffe herd to seven, including a 6-month-old giraffe named Timber and a 6-week-old calf named Pongo. Blizzard is very energetic and is already` running laps around his older siblings in the giraffe yard, but still manages to stay close to mom.

Giraffes are born after a 15-month gestation period. The calf will nurse on his mother’s milk for approximately six months, at which time he will be weaned.  During the first two years of a giraffe’s life, it doubles its height to be almost 12-feet tall.

Giraffes are the world’s tallest land mammal and can grow up to 17-feet tall. An adult female is between 1,540 to 2,600 pounds and an adult male ranges from 2,420 to 4,215 pounds. Like human fingerprints, the markings of a giraffe’s coat are unique to each individual. Reticulated giraffes are native to the dry savannas and open woodlands of sub-Saharan Africa.



April 1, 2009

DENVER ZOO ANNOUNCES IMPORTANT STAFF CHANGES - New and Promoted Staff to Improve Zoo Operations

Denver Zoo is excited to announce the following staff changes to improve the zoo’s strategic plan and safety protocols and continue to place a strong emphasis on animal care, helping animal species both in the zoo and in the field.

Previously serving as Vice President for Marketing & Communications, Ana Bowie was promoted to Denver Zoo Vice President for Strategic Initiatives & External Affairs, a newly created position. Bowie will now guide the direction of Denver Zoo’s Master Plan through strategic initiatives while providing oversight and serving as an advisor to the Zoo’s Marketing and Communications Department. She has been with the Denver Zoo since 2002.

Trish Ennis joins the Denver Zoo team as Director of Workplace Safety, with more than 20 years experience in safety and loss control, providing safety services for a number of municipalities, public and private entities and construction firms nationwide. Ennis is working closely with all of the zoo’s departments to develop new safety protocols.

Dr. David Kenny returns to Denver Zoo in a new capacity. He retired from the Denver Zoo in September 2008 after more than 18 years as Senior Veterinarian. As of January 1, Dr. Kenny began working half time with the Department of Conservation Biology as the Zoo’s Conservation Veterinary Coordinator, applying his veterinarian experience toward specific field conservation programs in Mongolia.

Dr. Felicia Knightly has been promoted to Denver Zoo Senior Veterinarian after Dr. Kenny’s retirement. Dr. Knightly has been with Denver Zoo since 1997. She now manages all hospital operations and oversees the veterinary care of the Zoo’s 3,500 animals. Her experience is wide-ranging and includes multiple trips to Madagascar to research the conservation of lemurs.

March 31, 2009

Something for Everyone At Denver Zoo Events - Spring and Summer Special Events at Denver Zoo

As the weather warms up so does the special event schedule at Denver Zoo. The following events offer fun for everyone this April, May & June:

APRIL
Easter Eggstravaganza
Sunday, April 12
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Easter Sunday, Denver Zoo visitors can see an eggstravaganza of numerous animals enjoying colored eggs including mongoose, red river hogs, polar bears, arctic foxes, river otters, gorillas, mandrills and more! Hard-boiled eggs are a part of the specially-planned diets of several of the zoo’s animals, and to get into the holiday spirit, several of the zoo’s animals will receive brightly colored Easter eggs! Zookeepers will place the colored eggs throughout the habitats so that the animals have to forage for their food, and of course, crack open the colorful shells. Visit www.denverzoo.org and click on events under quick links for the enrichment schedule.

Guest Speaker: Dr. Serge Wich
Thursday, April 16, at 7:30 p.m.
Admission: $25/guest. Reservations are required: www.denverzoo.org
Wild Sumatran orangutans have experienced tremendous reductions to their population and it is estimated around 6,600 remain in fragmented and often disturbed forest landscape. Dr. Serge A. Wich is a scientist at the Great Ape Trust and is currently conducting field work with Sumatran orangutans. Dr.  Wich will discuss the complexities surrounding the conservation of this critically endangered great ape and his desire to discover more about orangutan behavior, specifically developing an understanding of how the orangutan reacts to selective logging. All funds raised through this unique evening will benefit Dr. Serge Wich’s orangutan conservation work in Sumatra.

APEril
Saturday, April 18 & Sunday, April 19: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
All activities free with admission.
Climb, swing or knuckle walk to Denver Zoo and enter the wonderful world of apes. Experience what its like to move like a gorilla, compare your arm span to an orangutan and try to talk like a gibbon while learning what apes eat, what types of families they live in and how you can help to protect them.

Party for the Planet with Youth Summit
Wednesday, April 22 and Thursday, April 23: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Rock on down to Denver Zoo as we Party for the Planet on Wednesday, April 22 and Thursday, April 23 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. In partnership with Disney’s unveiling of Earth in theaters April 22, join Denver Zoo’s Community Leadership Project, Front Range Earth Force and local schools in this two-day Earth Day celebration. Learn about what you can do to help the planet from the next generation of conservationists. View projects created by children grades Kindergarten through 12th during Denver Zoo’s annual Youth Summit, Denver's premiere event for local service-learning students to demonstrate and celebrate the positive impact they have had on their environment.

MAY
Breakfast with the Birds and Celebration of International Migratory Bird Day
Saturday, May 9: 8-10 a.m.
$50 includes meal and behind the scenes tour. Advanced Registration Required. Must be 16 years of age or over.
Celebrate the amazing trek migratory birds make every year! The early bird gets the worm but this breakfast will be invertebrate free consisting fresh fruit, hash browns, orange juice and shade grown coffee. Join Denver Zoo bird keepers for a unique dining experience amongst some of Denver Zoo’s fine-feathered friends. Learn more about how Denver Zoo cares for its extraordinary bird collection during a behind the scenes tour of our revolutionary bird propagation center and be one of the first to participate in a flamingo meet and greet. Space is limited! Reserve your tickets at www.denverzoo.org (under Quicklinks/events) or call 303-376-6741.

Members’ Mother’s Day Brunch
Sunday, May 10: 8–11 a.m.
$30 age 13 and older, $15 for children ages 3-12. Members and their guests, only; advanced reservation required.
Get Mom out of the house and into the wild for a special Mother’s Day Brunch, May 10! Join Denver Zoo for our annual Mother’s Day celebration as we serve a delicious brunch al fresco in a unique setting that only the zoo can provide. Arrive at 8 a.m. for early entrance into the zoo and get a sneak peek of Denver Zoo’s newest mothers before the gates open to the general public. Reserve your tickets at www.denverzoo.org or call 303-376-6741.

Members’ Summer Preview Party
Thursday, May 21
6:30 – 9 p.m.
Members and their guests, only. No registration required, admission is free!
Start your Memorial Day weekend off with a roar, snort, trumpet and whistle! Get nose to snout with some of Denver Zoo’s residents at a Wild Encounter, hop on a hippo or wrangle a rhino on the conservation carousel and be one of the first to experience some of Denver Zoo’s newest shows and animal demonstrations during Members’ Night: Summer Preview Party. Members’ Night Summer Preview Party is a free exclusive event for Denver Zoo Members. To learn more about the benefits of being a Denver Zoo Member visit www.denverzoo.org.

Denver Zoo’s Movie and a Habitat Restoration Project
Screening of Taking Root: The Vision of Wangari Maathai
Thursday, May 28: 7 – 8:30 p.m.

Habitat Restoration Project
Saturday, May 30: 8:30 a.m. Registration, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Volunteer Project

Admission is free. Advanced Registration Required – Space is limited. Must be 10 years of age or over; Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Join Denver Zoo and help make conservation simple. Attend the screening of the film Taking Root: The Vision of Wangari Maathai at Denver Zoo on May 28 and learn about Denver Zoo’s conservation efforts in Kenya. The winner of at least 9 awards at independent film festivals in 2008, the film documents Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai’s efforts to plant trees in Kenya. From this simple beginning of planting trees, an entire movement emerged to reforest Kenyan lands, empower women with new work, provide new sources of food and income for Kenyans, and defend democracy. Then, on the Saturday following the screening, volunteer to help wildlife in your own community at a habitat restoration project on May 30. Volunteers will have the opportunity to plant trees and restore habitat for wildlife along the Westerly Creek natural area in Denver (near Martin Luther King Blvd and N Beeler St). For more information, to RSVP for the film, or to register for this project please e-mail Amy Masching at amasching@denverzoo.org or call 303-376-4935. Partial support for this project was provided by the Katahdin Foundation.

Spring Into Health 2009
Thursday, May 28: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
$5- Includes snack pack and event activities. Registration required - call 303-458-4868.
Join Denver Zoo, Mayor John Hickenlooper and the City of Denver by taking a walk on the wild side during this year’s Spring Into Health Day. Enjoy keynote speakers, health screenings, fitness classes and a walk around the zoo.

JUNE
Members’ Mid-Week Walk
Wednesday, June 3: 8 a.m.
Free for Denver Zoo Members - Denver Zoo Members Only Event.
Get your pulse racing and put your mind at ease with a mid-week morning walk on the wild side. Watch animals start their morning routines and keepers prepare for a busy day while striding through the zoo before it opens to the general public.

Do at the Zoo
Thursday, June 18: 6 – 10:30 p.m.
21 & Over Only. www.denverzoo.org for tickets.
Join Denver Zoo as we celebrate 20 years of hosting Denver’s wildest party and fundraiser! Dine on exotic dishes from around the city as more than 30 of Denver’s top restaurants serve their best menu items, while toasting spirits from around the world. Experience music, dancing and close-up animal encounters in the incomparable setting of Denver Zoo at twilight. Visit www.denverzoo.org for ticket information.

Members’ Walk
Saturday, June 27: 8 a.m.
Free for Denver Zoo Members - Denver Zoo Members Only Event
Get your pulse racing and put your mind at ease with a mid-week morning walk on the wild side. Watch animals start their morning routines and keepers prepare for a busy day while striding through the zoo before it opens to the general public.

March 19, 2009

DENVER ZOO HOPES NEW CHEETAH MAKES FAST FRIENDS - New Female Cheetah to be Paired with Resident Male

Denver Zoo is participating in a cheetah breeding program, swapping its lone female cheetah for another in the hopes that both will some day have cubs. This was done under recommendation of the Association of Zoos and Aquarium’s (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP). Zoos participate in SSPs to ensure healthy populations and genetic diversity among animals. Visitors can see the new cheetah, Katili (Kah-ti-lee), in the cheetah exhibit now.

Katili is an eight-year-old cheetah from the Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek, Michigan. She will be paired with five-year-old male Barafu (Bah-rah-foo). His twin sister Kibara (Kih-Bar-uh) will be sent back to the Binder Park Zoo. The twins originally came to Denver Zoo in May 2004 from the Oak Hills Breeding Center in Oklahoma City.

Cheetahs are classified as endangered by the World Conservation Union (IUCN) due to habitat loss and illegal hunting. Experts believe there are only about 10,000 cheetahs existing in the wild. There are currently 96 cheetahs in captivity in North America.

The cheetah has a beautiful spotted coat and is the fastest of all land mammals, capable of sprinting more than 60 miles per hour for about a quarter of a mile at a time. The cheetah uses its long tale like a rudder to help navigate at high speeds.

The new cheetah joined the zoo just in time to celebrate Spring Break. Visitors are invited to Spring Break ’09: Denver Zoo or Bust, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., March 23 - March 29! Each day we’ll take a close look of at least one continent and feature great entertainment along the way. Guests can watch Chinese dancers on our Voyage to Asia or listen to African storytellers during our Safari to Africa. Every day will also have unique craft activities and insights into how different animals are significant to their native cultures.

Mayor Hickenlooper receives a warm Denver Zoo welcome from Gidget the sea lion. See video of the visit!

March 4, 2009

Mayor Hickenlooper, Denver Zoo Officials & Sea Lion Announce Significant Sustainability Milestone for City

Mayor John Hickenlooper, Denver Zoo President and CEO Craig Piper and a 250-pound sea lion named Gidget today announced a significant milestone in the city’s sustainability efforts. Denver is the first city in the nation to voluntarily create an ISO-14001 certified Environmental Management System for multiple city agencies, programs and facilities.

The Denver Zoo – the site of today’s announcement – is the first zoo in the country to earn the certification for the entire zoo. This certification commits the zoo and participating City agencies to continuous improvement in their efforts to minimize the environmental impacts of their operations while reducing costs and increasing regulatory compliance, employee awareness and overall efficiency.

“This certification is a great honor for the City and carries with it an ongoing responsibility to do our part to make and keep Denver a sustainable community,” Hickenlooper said. “We are up to the task – managing to the ISO-14001 standards is consistent with the goals of our Greenprint Denver initiative and will help us protect our environment, improve our operations and save money as well.”

Zoo President Craig Piper, sea lion Gidget, Zookeeper Jessica Jenkins and Mayor Hickenlooper talk about the zoo's environmental performance.

In addition to the Denver Zoo, the City & County of Denver’s departments of Environmental Health, Public Works, Mayor’s Office (including Greenprint Denver), General Services, and Theatres & Arenas Division have certified their Environmental Management Systems through the comprehensive, internationally-recognized ISO-14001 independent accreditation process.   

“We are so fortunate to live in a city where sustainable practices are valued so greatly,” said Piper. “As an organization dedicated to conservation, Denver Zoo is setting a high bar for environmental performance. This system will help us implement our goals, while enabling us to continuously improve our environmental practices and share our best practices with others.”

Denver International Airport received ISO-14001 certification in 2004, and was the first international airport in North America to do so. Since then, DIA has created many sustainability initiatives, including installing one of the largest photovoltaic systems at an airport (10,000 panels on 7.5 acres) in August 2008.

In 2009, Denver plans to certify an additional nine entities, including the Office of Economic Development, Community Planning and Development, the Department of Law, Denver Public Library, Parks & Recreation, Safety, City Council, the Denver Botanic Gardens, and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science.

ISO-14001 certification is issued by NSF International and more information can be found at www.nsf.org. For more information about Denver’s ISO-14001 certification or sustainability efforts, call EMS Program Manager Paul Schmiechen at 303-865-5412 or Greenprint Denver Deputy Director Scott Morrissey at 720-865-9047.  

Environmental Management Systems (EMS) Fact Sheet

City & County of Denver
     
Public Works:

• Doubled the number of vehicles in the City fleet that are retrofitted with emissions-control technology which reduces the release of harmful emissions.
• Increased the use of asphalt that contains reclaimed asphalt pavement by 61% between 2007 to 2008
• Switching the city's traffic lights to LED bulbs, saving the city more than $800,000 dollars per year in energy, labor and material costs
• Installed E-85 fueling system at Public Works’ Roslyn facility to improve efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Environmental Health:

• Completed update of Denver greenhouse gas inventory, this provides baseline numbers which Denver can use in order to measure its performance.
• Completed a pilot outreach program to reduce vehicle idling at area schools and the Colorado Convention Center.
• Pilot project implemented in Environmental Health to save energy and paper by reducing personal printers by 30% with a  targeted 25% City-wide reduction for 2009

General Services:

• Installed Photovoltaic Solar Power system at the Colorado Convention Center
• Switched to Green Seal certified cleaning products at the Colorado Convention Center
• Developed and promoted “green” (environmentally preferable) purchasing guidelines for City agencies.
• Conserved water by replacing inefficient toilets and urinals in multiple City facilities
• Installed xeriscaping bluegrass areas at the Lowry Child Care Center and Colorado Convention Center
• At the CCC, the grass conversion was estimated to save 500,000 gallons of water per year
• Toilets were also replaced saving 1.5 gallons per flush and the urinals save 2.5 gallons per flush.
• Implemented Single stream recycling and composting at multiple venues:
• The Denver Coliseum diverted almost 100 tons from the landfill (37% of total waste – 21% composted, and 16% recycled)
• The Colorado Convention Center diverted 331 tons of waste from the landfill (28% of total waste –  11% composted, 17% recycled)
• Red Rocks Amphitheatre diverted 165 tons from the landfill (78% of total waste – 17% composted, 61% recycled)

Mayor’s Office (including Greenprint Denver):

• Best Workplaces for Commuters – Environmental Health, Career Service Authority and Greenprint led the effort to get the City & County of Denver registered as a Best Workplace for Commuters, which requires least 15 percent of employees to take alternative transportation.
• Launched the City Employee Bike Sharing Program B-Cycle in 2008.
• Formed the Neighborhood Weatherization Collaborative to provide Denver residents with services to save money on their utility bills through reductions in energy and water use
• Denver received a Solar America City award from the U.S. Department of Energy to promote increased use of solar technologies in the governmental, commercial and residential sectors

Denver Zoo

• Creating a 10-acre redevelopment dedicated to elephant and rhino conservation, with a gasification power plant, that will create energy from the campus waste stream. Denver Zoo’s landfill contributions will be reduced by 1.5 million pounds per year, putting the zoo a giant step closer to becoming a “zero-waste” facility.
• Gold Member of the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment’s Environmental Leadership Program, which exemplifies outstanding commitment to environmentally-friendly business practices.
• Denver Zoo is hiring a new permanent Green Coordinator dedicated to the coordination and management of the zoo’s environmental practices.
• Denver Zoo has implemented several water conservation projects over the last 10 years including xeriscaping, renovations to the water filtration systems at Sea Lions and Polar Bears, construction of a water quality wetland and recirculation system at the Flamingo Pond and installation of circulation and filtration system at the Northern Shores Duck Ponds. These projects, as well as operational changes have reduced overall annual water usage from approximately 320 million gallons in 1999 to approximately 150 million gallons in 2007. Beginning in 2003, Denver Zoo started adding new water lines which incorporate reuse water for horticulture and exhibit maintenance. As exhibits are revitalized, the zoo will implement more of Denver Water’s “purple” re-use lines.
• Denver Zoo monitors the amount and types of waste generated through our everyday operations to devise ways to reduce our waste stream and promote recycling efforts to both zoo staff and visitors. In June 2008, Denver Zoo hosted its first zero-waste event at the annual Do at the Zoo, using only recyclable and compostable utensils and service ware. In addition, Denver Zoo utilizes compostable utensils and service ware at our restaurants and encourages guest recycling on a daily basis.
• With support from City & County of Denver SEED grant through Environmental Health, a Procurement Database and software system is being designed to provide a method to make sustainable and socially-responsible decisions about all of the zoo’s purchases and the companies that the zoo supports to help make informed decisions that help minimize our negative effects on the environment, including carbon emissions.
• Denver Zoo provides an Eco Pass as a benefit to all regular full and part-time employees, promoting an ecologically-sound option for commuting through RTD public transit. The zoo also implemented a Transportation Logging Database to track the usage of the Eco Pass to provide metrics for our emissions reductions and to continually help improve alternative transportation usage.
• Denver Zoo is encouraging the public to recycle their e-waste, and partners with Luminous Recycling to collect members’ used electronics for free! More than 8,657 pounds of recyclable electronics were collected from members and guests in 2008.
• Denver Zoo consistently informs the public on grounds and through education outreach programs about environmentally-friendly acts they can perform at home to help protect planet earth and all of its inhabitants.

February 26, 2009

ENDANGERED GOLDEN LION TAMARIN BORN AT DENVER ZOO - Visitors Can See Tiny Newborn on Exhibit with Parents and Siblings in Emerald Forest

Denver Zoo has struck gold again as it is celebrating the birth of a new endangered golden lion tamarin that came into the world on February 6. Mother, Rosie, and father, Siamo, have proven to be excellent parents to their two previous sets of twins, and again are taking excellent care of the new arrival! Guests can see the entire family in the Emerald Forest exhibit in Denver Zoo’s Primate Panorama.

The newborn weighs less than 100 grams, about as much as an average kiwi fruit. The sex of the infant has not yet been determined, but zookeepers say that the baby appears to be strong and healthy. As is common for this species, every member of the family will take turns carrying the infant over the next few weeks, even the older siblings. By watching their parents care for the infants and participating in their care, Alex, Annie, Beau and Belle are learning valuable parenting skills that will hopefully be able to use themselves someday.

Golden lion tamarins are native to the coastal forests of Brazil and are classified as endangered as there are only an estimated 1,000 individuals remaining in the wild. Most of the wild population is confined to the Reserva Biológica de Poço das Antas, a protected area in Rio de Janeiro. Only two percent of this species’ original range remains and the existing habitat has been severely fragmented by logging and agriculture, which has led to isolated populations and inbreeding.

By 1980 there were more golden lion tamarins in captivity than in the wild, so re-introduction of captive-bred animals into Brazil began in 1984. Golden lion tamarins were classified as critically endangered until 2000, when the efforts of the re-introduction program began to show an increased population.  The species has now been downgraded to endangered as a result of nearly 30 years of conservation efforts. More than 150 captive bred golden lion tamarins are now living in the wild, but the species remains in peril, due primarily to habitat destruction.

As their name suggests, these primates bare some resemblance to lions, with their golden coats, long tails and the longer, darker hair around the face creating a mane.  Despite some similarities in appearance these primates are much smaller than the king of the jungle, weighing on average only between 400 – 800 grams (0.88 – 1.76 pounds). Gestation lasts for 126-130 days, usually ending in twin births. The young tamarins are weaned after just 90 days.

February 17, 2009

TALL ORDER ARRIVES AT DENVER ZOO - Visitors Can See Baby Giraffe Calf “Pongo”at Giraffe House


It will be hard for zoo visitors to miss the newest addition to the Denver Zoo family, a six-foot-two, 175-pound male giraffe, named Pongo. Born Sunday Feb. 15, the calf can now be seen with his mother at the zoo’s giraffe exhibit.

Pongo was born to mother, Masika and father, Dikembe. The calf brings the zoo’s giraffe herd to six, including a six-month-old giraffe named Timber. Visitors can see Pongo inside the Giraffe House and outside as the weather warms.

Giraffes are born after a 15-month gestation period. The calf will nurse on his mother’s milk for approximately six months, at which time he will be weaned.  During the first two years of a giraffe’s life, it doubles its height to be almost 12-feet tall.

Giraffes are the world’s tallest land mammal and can grow up to 17-feet tall. An adult female is between 1,540 to 2,600 pounds and an adult male ranges from 2,420 to 4,215 pounds. Like human fingerprints, the markings of a giraffe’s coat are unique to each individual. Reticulated giraffes are native to the dry savannahs and open woodlands of sub-Saharan Africa.

Feb. 12, 2009

DENVER ZOO SEEKS GREEN CHAMPION
Sustainability Coordinator to Help Fulfill Environmental Goals

Denver Zoo is seeking the greenest of the green for a new position, a Sustainability Coordinator to head up the zoo’s initiatives to become an even more environmentally-friendly organization. The unique position will give the ideal candidate the chance to help make Denver Zoo an ecological leader for the community. 

“We have many green projects in motion, but we need someone to help manage the implementation of these projects as we move forward,” says Denver Zoo VP for Planning & Capital Projects George Pond. “Many companies pay lip service to being green. However, when your mission is conserving wildlife, it’s important to make sure you’re doing everything you can to help the environment in your own back yard and in the far reaching business practices that can have a worldwide impact.”

The winning candidate will impact Denver Zoo’s ecological footprint, helping guide purchasing decisions, deciding which industries, vendors and products best support the zoo’s mission. That includes being environmentally, socially and economically responsible.
One of the most important job duties will be to guide Denver Zoo’s Workplace Conservation Committee, a “green team” with representatives from every zoo department charged with creating strategies to setting and applying conservation goals in every arena. The actions of the Conservation Committee are frequently used in public education campaigns.

The zoo isn’t just looking for a “green nerd,” though. We’re looking for someone with excellent communication skills, both internally and externally. The coordinator must manage all on-site green efforts while informing the public through presentations on the zoo’s work and improvements. This will require someone with scientific experience and savvy.

More than 100 people have already applied for the position. Applications will continue to be accepted through February 17. Visit www.denverzoo.org for more information and to apply.

February 5, 2009


Denver Zoo Celebrates Attendance Records - 2008 Attendance Numbers Are the Second Highest in Zoo History Zoo Membership Reaches All-Time High

Denver Zoo’s attendance soared in 2008, ranking as the second highest year in the zoo’s 113-year history. Denver Zoo reached 1,941,789 people through on-grounds attendance and outreach programs last year. Denver Zoo also celebrated an all-time high membership in July of 2008, with more than 64,000 member households which translates into approximately 224,000 individuals.

“There are a number of factors that made 2008 a record year for attendance. However, it is the ongoing patronage from the community that supports the zoo in all of our long term efforts. Whether it’s supporting conservation, joining as a member or volunteer or participating in an educational program, it’s the people who continue to support us year after year that must be thanked for making 2008 such a tremendous year,” says Denver Zoo President/CEO Craig Piper.

“Every visit helps us provide the very best care for our animals and generates resources necessary to offer innovative education programs for students throughout Colorado and neighboring states and to conduct research and conservation programs in the Front Range and around the globe,” noted Piper.

The 2008 attendance number rivaled the highest attendance set in 1995 when 1,984,097 people visited the zoo, many who came to say farewell to the zoo’s famous polar bears Klondike and Snow before they left to go to Busch Gardens in Tampa, Florida. Nice weather and high gas prices that left Denver-area families looking for activities close to home coupled with a strong marketing campaign helped make 2008 a record year. Approximately two thirds of zoo guests reside in metro Denver; the remainder visit from elsewhere in Colorado and from outside the state.  

“I also want to give credit to our staff members who have worked so hard to offer outstanding educational programming and fun family experiences for our guests. It’s their dedication and passion for conservation that is helping us inspire and teach so many to appreciate animals and protect them for future generations,” Piper says.

Success does come with setbacks. This week, an unprecedented number of people logged on simultaneously to the zoo’s online registration system to sign up for its popular Summer Safari camp causing the system to crash.

“We are so sorry for the inconvenience many encountered. It’s such a popular program; we wanted to offer a fair way for people to register for the prized spots by opening registration to everyone at the same time online. However, the response has been far greater than expected and our system just couldn’t handle the load,” says Vice President for Education and Volunteer Services Jacque Taylor.

Now the zoo plans to reopen registration for the Summer Safari on a rolling basis beginning on Friday, February 6, to spread the load over several days.

“It’s just another example that we still have a lot to accomplish. Although we are very proud of 2008’s attendance, we’re working to make 2009 even better.  We want Denver Zoo to be a fabulous place for families to share in the wonders of wildlife,” says Piper.

The zoo expects 2009 to be a strong year as well. In January 92,137 people enjoyed a day at the zoo compared to 53,507 in January of 2008. Attendance for the month was the highest it’s been in fifteen years.