In July, I wrote about the bi-continental showdown between two cheetahs attempting to become the world’s fastest creature. Get the details here.
For now, Cincinnati Zoo’s cheetah, Sarah, holds the crown after running 100 meters in an astounding 6.16 seconds. Zaza, the South African challenger has yet to run so hopefully in a few weeks we’ll have the third and final chapter to the story. Read the story here.
Jim Anderson, Director of the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is my 10th interview for the blog. In June, Fort Wayne opened their biggest addition in zoo history. Funny thing is African Journey is not an original new exhibit, rather a revamp. But, for anyone that had visited the old African Veldt at Fort Wayne, the new African Journey brought a big, pleasant surprise and an entirely new experience. Here is the updated zoo map showing the expansive African Journey addition. Jim touches on:
- African Journey
- his path to Zoo Director
- future projects at the zoo
- the prospect of Tasmanian devils coming back to Fort Wayne
- and more!
Zoo #76 – Zoo Montana. It’s not everyday that I can make it to a new zoo, so you can imagine my excitement to be in a new state AND a new zoo. Just like on all my family vacations, I dragged the rest of the gang to the zoo. Merely an hour after touchdown in Billings, we were at the entrance gates. Despite being the hottest day of our Western adventure, we all thoroughly enjoyed our visit. Zoo Montana doesn’t have a huge animal collection, but the exhibits for the animals they do have are really well done. Much of the small size is due to the zoo’s relative newness. The 70 acre site only opened in 1993! What impressed me was the beauty of the zoo grounds. Set in a forest, there is ample shade along the outdoor trail plus lots of wildflowers and grassland to offset the towering conifers. Four gardens are also along the trail, providing a serene atmosphere to sit and enjoy flowers. The coolest part is a mule deer fawn walked up the neighboring ravine and ate while I sat at the Children’s Garden.
Inside the entrance building, two separate rooms showcase native reptiles and amphibians and other small creatures. Several terrariums are dedicated to the Wyoming Toad, a species Zoo Montana is helping to re-introduce into the wild in an attempt to boost numbers. Other animals include green tree python, chinchilla, and an owl.
Homestead House is Zoo Montana’s take on a Children’s Zoo, and replicates a turn of the century western farmhouse. Inside are huge rabbits, sheep, pigs, and horses. Peacocks, which have the freedom of the entire zoo tend to hang out over here as well. Surrounding the House are cut out boards (great picture opportunity), old farm equipment, and a pond inhabited by native wildlife.
Two injured eagles perch by the Children's Playground
The zoo houses hardy animals, able to withstand the cold Montana winters. This helps the zoo stay open all year round. Amur tigers, red pandas, and sika deer make up the Asian corner at the back of the trail. Wolves, porcupines, otters, waterfowl, and bighorn sheep are found in the middle of the zoo after crossing Canyon Creek. Almost all of the exhibits have multiple viewing stations making it easier to spot animals. Zoo Montana is also one of only a handful of American zoos to house wolverines, which based on their size most people would have no idea the punch they pack.
Next door to the wolverines is the main attraction at the zoo – Bruno the grizzly bear. Bruno lives in the zoo’s best exhibit, the aptly named Bear Meadows. At 2 acres, Meadows, which opened in 2008 is much larger than most bear exhibits around the country. And it’s full of stuff for both bear and man to enjoy. Inside the exhibit, Bruno can meander through tall grass, relax in a deep pool, climb on trees, play with balls, and one his favorite activities is helping to squeegee the windows.
Bruno likes to help clean the windows
Much like the rest of the zoo grounds, the visitor path is surrounded by wildflowers, and in this case colorful poppies. If Bruno happens to be away from the windows, visitors can walk up to an elevated overlook just in front of a big shady tree.
Wildflowers are all over the zoo.
Zoo Montana isn’t going to take you a whole day to stroll through. But it’s a beautiful setting, great for photography (both the animals and surroundings), has some interesting animals, and is unique when compared to Midwestern zoos of similar size. It’s definitely worth a stop if you need a break driving through the enormous state which is Montana or if you fly into Billings and have a couple of hours. If you can’t make the trip (it took me a while), keep up to date with Zoo Montana’s news on their blog.
I got several messages from various formats (e-mail, text, voicemail) that the Sue Chin interview was not working. Thanks for keeping me accountable. Sorry for the delay, but I’ve been in Montana (more on that later this week) and at the Columbus Zoo (ditto). Before I post on those trips; I finally got my convo with Sue working. You can scroll down, or just click here.
This week we step away from the Zoo Director role and view the zoo from a different angle. Sue Chin, Vice President of Planning and Design and Chief Architect for the Bronx Zoo based Wildlife Conservation Society has her hands full overseeing new projects at all 5 New York City WCS institutions. But that didn’t stop her from answering a few questions about her 20 year career in the Big Apple and particularly the new snow leopard exhibit at the Central Park Zoo.
Taking a few notes from Bronx’s excellent Himalayan Highlands, as well as input from the esteemed George Schaller (winner of the 2008 Indianapolis Prize), Sue and her staff did their best to re-create the mountainous misty terrain snow leopards are famous for hiding in. For those, like me, that live too far from NYC to see in person, the internet proves to be a valuable resource. WCS posted a minute long video of the exhibit on You Tube.
Sue also touches on Bronx’s recently LEED Certified 2008 project Madagascar, the budget crisis which included the World of Darkness closing, and future plans at Brooklyn’s New York Aquarium and Queens Zoo.
It is truly amazing that a city, even one as big as NYC can have 5 zoos! What’s even better is that each is entirely unique, ensuring that a visit to one borough’s zoo will be as engaging as the next. That being said, the Bronx is certainly the crown jewel of the city and for many one of the world’s best. Bronx is definitely one of my favorites, if for no other reason than their exhibit design (thanks to Sue and co.) is extremely conducive for photography. Glass glare is limited and most exhibits have open views with beautiful backdrops. Maps for all 5 New York City Zoological Institutions are below, check out for yourself how different they are.
I read a story tonight which fascinated me. The Cincinnati Zoo, in partnership with South African conservation organization Cheetah Outreach is hosting a one of a kind global feline track meet in September. To raise awareness on the global plight of cheetahs, Sarah (a Cincy Zoo cheetah) and Zaza (the South African competitor) will race a 100 meter dash for continental bragging rights. Their goal is to top the 6.19 second mark set in 2001. That’s incredibly quick, considering the fastest human time is 9.69 seconds set at Beijing’s 2008 Olympics by Jamaican Usain Bolt.
Also helping to boost the event is another Sarah, Indy Car driver Sarah Fisher. Sarah’s (the spotted one) time trial will take place at the Kentucky Speedway where Sarah (the human one) holds the fastest qualifying record. I’m looking forward to hearing the outcome, and I think it’s a great way to show off the cheetah’s innate athleticism. The only problem I have is that it won’t be open to the public. It’s unfortunate because I think it could draw a lot of people, including me.
Watching a cheetah run is an incredible sight. I got the opportunity two years ago at Cincinnati’s Cheetah Encounter. I was so excited to see a cheetah run without sitting on the couch watching Animal Planet. I just had one goal – get a picture of it. After talking about cheetah conservation and behavior in an entertaining comedic skit, the stage was set for a run. The trainers warned it would be quick and they were right. Despite pressing the camera to my face in full concentration, I completely missed the action. Good thing they run twice. The second time around I was fortunate enough to get a spotted blur which under normal circumstances would be disappointing. In this case, it was plenty for me.
Cincinnati’s cheetah encounter is free with zoo admission but requires punctuality. The program is popular and no standing is allowed. Make sure to get to the arena (adjacent to the main entrance across the parking lot) 10-15 minutes early.
For an extra price the San Diego Wild Animal Park offers a more indepth and upclose experience with Cheetah Run Safari, complete with refreshments and a souvenir photo. Reservations can be made beforehand and are recommended not only due to popularity but also because the Safari begins at 9 a.m. so it’s more convenient to have your tickets arranged prior to arrival.
After my original post, I was reminded of another zoo that offers the opportunity. Every 3rd Saturday during the summer at the Kansas City Zoo, a lure is dragged across the cheetah’s long and narrow exhibit with a cat in tow. I need to thank Steven Johnson, of the Kansas City Photo Club for sending me an email reminder. I’ve also posted two of Steven’s great photos below, which beautifully show the concentration and balance cheetahs possess. Thanks Steven!
All of the previous interviews occurred after the opening of that zoo’s new exhibit, except one. When I interviewed Lee Ehmke in May, Minnesota Zoo’s Woodland Adventure was still 6 weeks from completion. Now that it is open for curious youngsters, I checked in with Lee to see how it was received.
Lee said the “opening went great, and response has been outstanding.”
Kids who tried out the playground before the opening gave it “a big thumbs up.”
“There was lots of climbing and playing and exploring, which is really the point”
“It’s not just looking like a lot of the rest of the zoo.”
Woodland Adventure is an impressive 4,800 square feet and located off the Central Plaza (zoo map). The Plaza, opened last year along with Russia’s Grizzly Coast serves as a much needed orientation and gathering stop before starting along the lengthy outdoor trail. Woodland Adventure adds a new component to the Plaza, which previously contained other important visitor amenities (Cafe, restrooms, and gift stand). The new playground is full of features for exploration including:
The Star Tribune posted a gallery of photos.
As mentioned before, zoos across the country are experiencing a rise in attendance. Record setting years have occured at many zoos, and Minnesota recently joined the bunch. With the opening of Grizzly Coast, there were great expectations. The final number was 1.36 million (16% increase), beating out 1994’s mark. Memberships also increased by 21%. With the always popular crocodile planned to become a resident (first time in the zoo’s history to my knowledge) next year, things are continuing to look up in Apple Valley.
We have a 2 for 1 deal here. Brothers David and Tim Tetzlaff, of Florida’s Naples Zoo took time to talk about Black Bear Hammock, this year’s addition to the zoo. As a small, but growing zoo in Southwest Florida, David and Tim take an interesting approach in educating their guests which derives from their rich family history with animals. Shows and keeper chats fill each day, so curious visitors are assured numerous learning opportunities. Some of the more interesting presentations include Snake Sunbathing and Planet Predator.
It’s rare to see two brothers working so closely together in such prominent positions at a zoo. The guys set the record straight about their unique relationship and individual role at the zoo. Also, in addition to the new Hammock, there is a lot more to see at Naples Zoo. Known for their carnivore (especially cat) collection, Naples also has a number of other species (virtual map) to discover. The most unique experience is the Primate Expedition Cruise, a guided boat tour of primate filled islands.
With two contributors, the interview did push to one hour. For your convenience, I am working on getting America’s Zoo Scoop on Itunes, allowing for more flexible listening opportunities. More updates to follow, but for now, enjoy hearing about the Naples Zoo!
Photo by Larry W. Richardson
A new philosophy on Children’s Zoos popped up in 2001 . Since then, several zoos have created their own version of an interactive play filled space for kids to learn and have fun at the same time. Nature’s Neighborhood, opened June 19th is Toledo Zoo’s answer to building a strong connection between next generation’s adults and the natural world.
Dr. Anne Baker, executive director of the Ohio institution answered a few questions about Neighborhood and everything else going on at Toledo this year. As always, I ask about her favorite animal currently at the zoo and on the wish list and Dr. Baker had an interesting take on the question. Don’t miss her intriguing answer.
Male bustard strutting his stuff
Is there a more recognizable individual rhino in America? Hard to miss that horn.
Kids can strap these on and make animal tracks in the sand
Underwater viewing allows for great views of these skilled swimmers
Kids can put on costumes and pretend to be bees in Nature's Neighborhood
Saturday June 27th was a busy day at southern Michigan’s Binder Park Zoo. The annual 5K Cheetah Chase had eager runners passing giraffes early in the morning and later in the afternoon I made a presentation about America’s Best Zoos with a signing afterward. Fortunately, the weather was near perfect and lacked the humid bite so often a daily requirement for Midwestern summers.
In between the events were plenty of visitors enjoying the beautiful day the best way possible – touring the excellent zoo! Battle Creek, Michigan is hardly on the short list of places expected to see a well executed re-creation of an African savanna, but the fictional Zuri National Park serves as the medium to transport guests from an American forest to an open East African plain. On top of the 18 acre main antelope filled expanse, winding paths stroll past monkeys, birds, wild dogs, and African farm. Got lots of great pictures, especially of the giraffe-human interaction, so here’s a few.
P.S. Forgot two blog links last time. Even though they are in my blogroll, I think they deserve a noteworthy mention. First, Paul Becker is working on a project examining the sociology of zoos. As he and his wife Cathy visit zoos, they write about each experience with insightful and honest observations. Read them here – Animal Ruminations.
Second, who doesn’t love baby animals? I mean seriously, is it even possible to say “ugly” and “baby animal” in the same sentence? For all the cute and cuddly faces Zoo Borns is the place to be.
Wild Africa's Monkey Valley is home to colobus and black mangabeys
Cooled rocks, plenty of shade, and several misters keep the cold weather cats cool in the summer
Many zoos now offer giraffe feedings, but only a couple are in the same league as Binder Park's
An impressive set of horns awaits at the African farm
