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
Interview #3 is with Mark Reed, Executive Director of the Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita, Kansas. Among other prestigious accolades, Mark is a former President of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and has lead Sedgwick since 1991. Mark graciously gave me an extensive tour of every part of the zoo, proudly showing off the wonderful place he’s built. Having never visited before, I was stunned at the animal collection and quality exhibits for lions, tigers, gorillas, penguins, and birds in a 32 year old rain forest.
Memorial Day Weekend is widely considered to be the beginning of “zoo season” and Sedgwick started it off with a bang. Slawson Family Tiger Trek, opened May 22nd, brought tigers back to the zoo after a 10 plus year gap. Red pandas and rare Eld’s deer are tiger neighbors. Trek is another great addition to Sedgwick, a truly amazing zoo in an unlikely place.
Mark and I discuss:
- the unique features of Tiger Trek
- how the economic downturn has affected the zoo
- the importance of community support and how it has led to Sedgwick’s success
- Mark’s involvement in AZA
- future projects at Sedgwick…..and more!
From an elevated boardwalk, visitors can see the larger of the 2 tiger habitats and one for deer
Tigers may be the main attraction, but this red panda has been a huge hit in Wichita
Sedgwick has a long boat ride passing North American and African animals, including this pelican island.
Inside the Jungle, a colony of fruit bats dangles above visitors.
An otter mom was busy teaching her four pups how to swim.
