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!

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

The Peoria Zoo was not featured in America’s Best Zoos, but a big change has put the small Illinois zoo into national attention this year.  The opening of Africa! on June 6th is by far the largest ever project at the zoo.  Peoria’s director, Yvonne Strode took a few minutes to discuss the new addition and helps familiarize us with the rest of the zoos’ offerings.

Mixing species can bring more active animals

Young playful lions

Mom, wife, aunt. These three lucky ladies joined me in Peoria

Smallest foxes have biggest ears