On Thursday, August 27, 2010, zoo officials coordinated last minute efforts with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to transport confiscated rattlesnakes to Zoo Atlanta. On Friday, August 28, 2010, an adult female rattlesnake was discovered missing from its cage in the quarantine facility. Zoo officials have been working around the clock to locate and capture the snake.
Early Monday, August 30, 2010, zoo officials received a phone call regarding a snake sighting. A member of the reptile staff responded to the call on Atlanta Avenue (a vacant home that is being remodeled). Upon arrival the snake was found dead on the front porch of the vacant home.
“We are grateful the snake was found,” said Raymond King, President and CEO. “We are conducting a thorough review of the incident to ensure all appropriate adjustments to procedures and protocols occur.”
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Showing posts with label zoo atlanta. Show all posts
Showing posts with label zoo atlanta. Show all posts
Monday, August 30, 2010
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Waterbuck born at Zoo Atlanta
Kokopelli, a 9-year-old female waterbuck at Zoo Atlanta, gave birth to a calf overnight on August 22, 2010. The newborn appears to be healthy and has been observed nursing and following Kokopelli in their African Plains habitat.
The calf is the fifth offspring for Kokopelli and 8-year-old Arizona. Like giraffe calves, waterbuck calves are precocial, generally walking within an hour of birth.
Found throughout southeastern sub-Saharan Africa, waterbuck are among the world’s largest antelope species. The species name refers to the fact that waterbuck are often found near water sources, are good swimmers, and possess oily, “waterproof” coats.
Kokopelli’s youngster will make an interesting new neighbor for the 1-month-old giraffe calf born to Glenda on July 13. Voting to name Atlanta’s tallest baby continues online on zooatlanta.org through Wednesday, August 25 at 5 p.m. The winning name and contestant will be announced during a special naming celebration at Zoo Atlanta on Saturday, August 28 at 10 a.m. Stay tuned to zooatlanta.org for event details.
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The calf is the fifth offspring for Kokopelli and 8-year-old Arizona. Like giraffe calves, waterbuck calves are precocial, generally walking within an hour of birth.
Found throughout southeastern sub-Saharan Africa, waterbuck are among the world’s largest antelope species. The species name refers to the fact that waterbuck are often found near water sources, are good swimmers, and possess oily, “waterproof” coats.
Kokopelli’s youngster will make an interesting new neighbor for the 1-month-old giraffe calf born to Glenda on July 13. Voting to name Atlanta’s tallest baby continues online on zooatlanta.org through Wednesday, August 25 at 5 p.m. The winning name and contestant will be announced during a special naming celebration at Zoo Atlanta on Saturday, August 28 at 10 a.m. Stay tuned to zooatlanta.org for event details.
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Monday, August 9, 2010
Zoo Atlanta: Naming Contest Begins Today for Baby Giraffe
Now that lucky visitors are being treated to sightings of Atlanta’s first giraffe calf, the next milestone in order for the city’s tallest baby is a name. Zoo Atlanta officials announced last week that a naming contest for the calf will launch online on zooatlanta.org on Monday, August 9.
Beginning today, voters are encouraged to visit zooatlanta.org to view and select from a final list of names submitted by Zoo Atlanta staff and Volunteers; the Zoo Atlanta Board of Directors; and local media outlets. Voting will continue online through Wednesday, August 25. The winning name will be announced during a naming celebration on Saturday, August 28. As an added incentive for voting, each participant will also be entered for a chance to win a Zoo Atlanta Membership and an exclusive behind-the-scenes animal encounter.
Stay tuned to zooatlanta.org for naming contest details.
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Beginning today, voters are encouraged to visit zooatlanta.org to view and select from a final list of names submitted by Zoo Atlanta staff and Volunteers; the Zoo Atlanta Board of Directors; and local media outlets. Voting will continue online through Wednesday, August 25. The winning name will be announced during a naming celebration on Saturday, August 28. As an added incentive for voting, each participant will also be entered for a chance to win a Zoo Atlanta Membership and an exclusive behind-the-scenes animal encounter.
Stay tuned to zooatlanta.org for naming contest details.
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Thursday, July 29, 2010
Zoo Atlanta: Giraffe calf takes first peek at the public
Zoo Atlanta officials announced July 28 that Atlanta’s first giraffe calf may now be spotted in her African Plains habitat. Lucky guests may be treated to sightings of the new giraffe calf, who has been confirmed to be female, during select intervals until she is on exhibit full-time.
Born July 13, 2010, to 3-year-old Glenda, the calf is currently exploring the savanna-inspired yard with her mother and her aunt, Glenda’s 4-year-old sister Mona. Future milestones will include introductions to her father, 4-year-old Abu, as well as to the exhibit’s other residents, including ostrich and zebra.
Stay tuned to zooatlanta.org for exciting updates on the calf’s progress.
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Born July 13, 2010, to 3-year-old Glenda, the calf is currently exploring the savanna-inspired yard with her mother and her aunt, Glenda’s 4-year-old sister Mona. Future milestones will include introductions to her father, 4-year-old Abu, as well as to the exhibit’s other residents, including ostrich and zebra.
Stay tuned to zooatlanta.org for exciting updates on the calf’s progress.
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Thursday, July 15, 2010
Giraffe born at Zoo Atlanta
Glenda, a 3-year-old female giraffe at Zoo Atlanta, has given birth to her first calf. Born on July 13, the newborn stands around 6 feet tall and is estimated to weigh between 100 and 150 pounds. The Animal Management and Veterinary Teams will continue to monitor both Glenda and the calf, who will have an opportunity to bond indoors before exploring their African Plains habitat.
“We are extremely excited about the birth of the calf,” said Raymond King, President and CEO. “Giraffes have long been a very popular and charismatic part of the collection.”
As is typical of the species, giraffe mothers give birth standing up, and their offspring are usually born feet-first. Healthy calves are able to walk within two hours of birth.
The Animal Management and Veterinary Teams previously based their estimation of Glenda’s condition on weight gain and physical signs that she was expecting. “Glenda’s exact birth window remained uncertain. Giraffe gestation is 15 months,” said Dr. Dwight Lawson, Senior Vice President of Collections, Education and Conservation.
Born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in October 2006, Glenda and her half-sister, 4-year-old Mona, arrived at Zoo Atlanta in October 2007. The females share their habitat with the calf’s father, 4-year-old Abu.
The world’s tallest living land mammals, giraffes are native to grasslands and open woodlands in east Africa. The species is not currently endangered, although wild populations face decline due to habitat loss.
Mother and calf will bond off-exhibit for two to three weeks; stay tuned for exciting details on the calf’s debut.
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“We are extremely excited about the birth of the calf,” said Raymond King, President and CEO. “Giraffes have long been a very popular and charismatic part of the collection.”
As is typical of the species, giraffe mothers give birth standing up, and their offspring are usually born feet-first. Healthy calves are able to walk within two hours of birth.
The Animal Management and Veterinary Teams previously based their estimation of Glenda’s condition on weight gain and physical signs that she was expecting. “Glenda’s exact birth window remained uncertain. Giraffe gestation is 15 months,” said Dr. Dwight Lawson, Senior Vice President of Collections, Education and Conservation.
Born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in October 2006, Glenda and her half-sister, 4-year-old Mona, arrived at Zoo Atlanta in October 2007. The females share their habitat with the calf’s father, 4-year-old Abu.
The world’s tallest living land mammals, giraffes are native to grasslands and open woodlands in east Africa. The species is not currently endangered, although wild populations face decline due to habitat loss.
Mother and calf will bond off-exhibit for two to three weeks; stay tuned for exciting details on the calf’s debut.
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Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Western lowland gorilla born at Zoo Atlanta
The great ape whose name has become synonymous with motherhood has a new outlet for her considerable parenting skills. Kuchi, a 25-year-old western lowland gorilla, gave birth to an infant overnight. The newborn is the third offspring for Kuchi and 20-year-old silverback Taz, who is also the father of fraternal twins Kali and Kazi, 4.
“Kuchi has demonstrated over the years that she is a truly remarkable mother,” says Dr. Dwight Lawson, Senior Vice President of Collections, Education and Conservation. “We’re excited about seeing her demonstrate those qualities with another new baby, and particularly about seeing Kali and Kazi interact with their new sibling.”
With the births of Kali and Kazi in 2005, Kuchi achieved national attention as the only known gorilla in captivity ever to rear twins independently – a distinction she still holds. She also has two adult offspring, Stadi, 19, and Lulu, 10.
Home to the nation’s largest collection of gorillas, Zoo Atlanta has an international reputation for social and behavioral research on the critically endangered species. Kuchi’s infant is the 18th western lowland gorilla born at the Zoo since the opening of The Ford African Rain Forest in 1988.
Kuchi and her new infant are on exhibit now.
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“Kuchi has demonstrated over the years that she is a truly remarkable mother,” says Dr. Dwight Lawson, Senior Vice President of Collections, Education and Conservation. “We’re excited about seeing her demonstrate those qualities with another new baby, and particularly about seeing Kali and Kazi interact with their new sibling.”
With the births of Kali and Kazi in 2005, Kuchi achieved national attention as the only known gorilla in captivity ever to rear twins independently – a distinction she still holds. She also has two adult offspring, Stadi, 19, and Lulu, 10.
Home to the nation’s largest collection of gorillas, Zoo Atlanta has an international reputation for social and behavioral research on the critically endangered species. Kuchi’s infant is the 18th western lowland gorilla born at the Zoo since the opening of The Ford African Rain Forest in 1988.
Kuchi and her new infant are on exhibit now.
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Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Warthog Piglets Debut at Zoo Atlanta
The warthog piglets born to Shirley on April 7, 2010, have made their official debut. The precocious new arrivals were recently reunited with their father, Vern, and are sure to delight Members and guests as they explore the Georgia Power sponsored warthog exhibit Kalahari Connections with their parents.
Warthog piglets are typically weaned by the time they are 6 months old, although older siblings may reside with their mother until her next litter is born. While wild warthog fathers tend to have little or no association with their young, Vern has proven himself a protective and interested parent.
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Warthog piglets are typically weaned by the time they are 6 months old, although older siblings may reside with their mother until her next litter is born. While wild warthog fathers tend to have little or no association with their young, Vern has proven himself a protective and interested parent.
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Friday, February 5, 2010
And She’s Off!
Mei Lan, a 3-year-old female giant panda from Zoo Atlanta, departed for China on February 4, 2010. Transportation for the world-famous bear was generously donated by FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX).
Zoo Volunteers and Docents lined the sidewalks of Cherokee Avenue for a parting glimpse as the FedEx truck transporting Mei Lan left Zoo Atlanta at 6:30 a.m. Her vehicle was escorted by an Atlanta Police motorcade on the trip to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.
Mei Lan’s aircraft, a custom-decaled FedEx Express 777F christened the FedEx Panda Express, was waiting at the airport for its precious cargo at 7:00 a.m. Officials loaded an enormous FedEx box packed with farewell cards signed by hundreds of fans as Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed; Mike Ducker, Chief Operating Officer, FedEx Express; former Zoo Atlanta President and CEO Dennis Kelly; and Ben De Costa, General Manager, Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, delivered opening remarks. The jet received a ceremonial washdown salute before taking off at 8:15 a.m.
The FedEx Panda Express was en route to Washington’s Dulles International Airport to retrieve Mei Lan’s fellow passenger, 4-year-old male Tai Shan from Smithsonian’s National Zoo, for a nonstop flight to Chengdu, China. Mei Lan is accompanied by Zoo Atlanta Giant Panda Keeper Heather Roberts, who will spend the next 10 days with her at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
“This is a bittersweet moment for the Zoo Atlanta family and for fans around the world, but it’s a wonderful moment for giant pandas,” said Zoo Atlanta Curator of Mammals Dr. Rebecca Snyder. “We’re very proud to have shared Mei Lan’s life to the point where she can now begin making her own contributions to the world’s population of giant pandas.”
Thousands of local, national and international fans paid tribute to Zoo Atlanta’s firstborn giant panda cub during her last weeks in Atlanta, even braving a particularly cold and rainy Saturday to attend her Farewell Celebration on January 30. Following an exclusive raffle drawing offered during the celebration, Zoo Atlanta Docent Lynne LaVallee won the coveted opportunity to witness Mei Lan’s final exit from outside the giant panda building Thursday morning.
Mei Lan’s many admirers can find updated information about the pandas’ journey at news.fedex.com/pandas. As they become available, updates on Mei Lan’s progress in China will be posted on zooatlanta.org.
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Zoo Volunteers and Docents lined the sidewalks of Cherokee Avenue for a parting glimpse as the FedEx truck transporting Mei Lan left Zoo Atlanta at 6:30 a.m. Her vehicle was escorted by an Atlanta Police motorcade on the trip to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.
Mei Lan’s aircraft, a custom-decaled FedEx Express 777F christened the FedEx Panda Express, was waiting at the airport for its precious cargo at 7:00 a.m. Officials loaded an enormous FedEx box packed with farewell cards signed by hundreds of fans as Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed; Mike Ducker, Chief Operating Officer, FedEx Express; former Zoo Atlanta President and CEO Dennis Kelly; and Ben De Costa, General Manager, Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, delivered opening remarks. The jet received a ceremonial washdown salute before taking off at 8:15 a.m.
The FedEx Panda Express was en route to Washington’s Dulles International Airport to retrieve Mei Lan’s fellow passenger, 4-year-old male Tai Shan from Smithsonian’s National Zoo, for a nonstop flight to Chengdu, China. Mei Lan is accompanied by Zoo Atlanta Giant Panda Keeper Heather Roberts, who will spend the next 10 days with her at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
“This is a bittersweet moment for the Zoo Atlanta family and for fans around the world, but it’s a wonderful moment for giant pandas,” said Zoo Atlanta Curator of Mammals Dr. Rebecca Snyder. “We’re very proud to have shared Mei Lan’s life to the point where she can now begin making her own contributions to the world’s population of giant pandas.”
Thousands of local, national and international fans paid tribute to Zoo Atlanta’s firstborn giant panda cub during her last weeks in Atlanta, even braving a particularly cold and rainy Saturday to attend her Farewell Celebration on January 30. Following an exclusive raffle drawing offered during the celebration, Zoo Atlanta Docent Lynne LaVallee won the coveted opportunity to witness Mei Lan’s final exit from outside the giant panda building Thursday morning.
Mei Lan’s many admirers can find updated information about the pandas’ journey at news.fedex.com/pandas. As they become available, updates on Mei Lan’s progress in China will be posted on zooatlanta.org.
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Thursday, December 24, 2009
While the Cat’s Away …
The Sumatran tiger and clouded leopard habitats are temporarily closed as Zoo Atlanta begins construction on an all-new carnivore complex scheduled to open in summer 2010.
What to do with the cats for the next several months? Thanks to professional collaboration with two other AZA zoos, three of the popular felines are temporarily charming North Carolinians and Arkansans. Sumatran tigers Chelsea and Kavi have reached interim quarters at the North Carolina Zoo, and the elusive Moby has traveled to the Little Rock Zoo. The Zoo’s eldest tiger, Jalal, 16, won’t be leaving on any travels: the charismatic senior will stay in Atlanta but will reside in an off-exhibit area during construction. Little do the cats know that there’s a total home makeover in store!
Meanwhile, things are looking pretty fierce at the base of the Zoo’s Asian Forest. While Zoo guests can’t currently see the striped and spotted regulars, their temporary absence will be worth the wait. Frequent visitors are encouraged to stop by the area and check out a construction checklist tracking the progress of 2010’s big Zoo debut.
Stay tuned for updates, as well as future news on two very exciting arrivals to the new carnivore complex. We’d share more, but we don’t want to let the cat out of the bag …
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What to do with the cats for the next several months? Thanks to professional collaboration with two other AZA zoos, three of the popular felines are temporarily charming North Carolinians and Arkansans. Sumatran tigers Chelsea and Kavi have reached interim quarters at the North Carolina Zoo, and the elusive Moby has traveled to the Little Rock Zoo. The Zoo’s eldest tiger, Jalal, 16, won’t be leaving on any travels: the charismatic senior will stay in Atlanta but will reside in an off-exhibit area during construction. Little do the cats know that there’s a total home makeover in store!
Meanwhile, things are looking pretty fierce at the base of the Zoo’s Asian Forest. While Zoo guests can’t currently see the striped and spotted regulars, their temporary absence will be worth the wait. Frequent visitors are encouraged to stop by the area and check out a construction checklist tracking the progress of 2010’s big Zoo debut.
Stay tuned for updates, as well as future news on two very exciting arrivals to the new carnivore complex. We’d share more, but we don’t want to let the cat out of the bag …
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Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Give So They Stay Campaign Update From Zoo Atlanta
The rain has died down at Zoo Atlanta, but Pandamonium rages on. Despite torrential downpours preceding historic flooding in the metro Atlanta area, several hundred faithful giant panda fans bravely donned ponchos for the Zoo’s giant panda birthday celebration on Saturday, September 19. The weather had no dampening effect on guest excitement: a raffle for an exclusive behind-the-scenes raised more than $2,300 on the day of the event. The lucky grand prize winners were Andrea Rafferty of Roswell, Ga., and Robert Kesler of Douglasville, Ga.
Meanwhile, the Give So They Stay campaign continues to generate overwhelming momentum in the community. Partners at Esperanza recently donated their talent and creativity to seven new T-shirt designs created with the campaign in mind. Members of the public are invited to vote for their favorite designs on www.metromix.com. Voting will continue through September 29, 2009. All T-shirt sales from the winning designs will benefit the campaign.
There’s even more Pandamonium in store for the month of October. Beginning October 5, Zoo Atlanta will host an exclusive online auction to benefit Give So They Stay. The auction will feature an exciting collection of priceless giant panda memorabilia; unique collector’s items; once-in-a-lifetime opportunities; exotic getaways and more. The auction goes live on October 5 on www.biddingforgood.com. Bidding continues through October 31.
As of September 22, Zoo Atlanta had collected a total of $132,225 toward the campaign, which continues through December 31, 2009.
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Meanwhile, the Give So They Stay campaign continues to generate overwhelming momentum in the community. Partners at Esperanza recently donated their talent and creativity to seven new T-shirt designs created with the campaign in mind. Members of the public are invited to vote for their favorite designs on www.metromix.com. Voting will continue through September 29, 2009. All T-shirt sales from the winning designs will benefit the campaign.
There’s even more Pandamonium in store for the month of October. Beginning October 5, Zoo Atlanta will host an exclusive online auction to benefit Give So They Stay. The auction will feature an exciting collection of priceless giant panda memorabilia; unique collector’s items; once-in-a-lifetime opportunities; exotic getaways and more. The auction goes live on October 5 on www.biddingforgood.com. Bidding continues through October 31.
As of September 22, Zoo Atlanta had collected a total of $132,225 toward the campaign, which continues through December 31, 2009.
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Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Zoo Atlanta Prepares For Pandamonium
A black-and-white blowout honoring four of Atlanta’s best-known celebrities will also be the final birthday bash on U.S. soil for one of the city’s most beloved superstars. On Saturday, September 19, 2009, Zoo Atlanta hosts Pandamonium, a family-sized extravaganza honoring the August and September birthdays of giant panda cub Xi Lan, 1; Mei Lan, 3; and Lun Lun and Yang Yang, both 12.
Friends around the world are invited to enjoy panda-centric activities, refreshments, crafts and special keeper talks while the guests of honor enjoy birthday surprises. Guests who arrive between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. can purchase $1 raffle tickets for a chance at one of the Zoo’s rarest and most coveted opportunities: an exclusive behind-the-scenes opportunity to meet one of the giant pandas. Raffle proceeds benefit the Give So They Stay campaign to keep giant pandas in Atlanta.
Fans who have followed the world-famous Mei Lan since her birth on September 6, 2006 are encouraged to attend, as the September 19 event will be her last American birthday party. The 3-year-old female has been recommended for an early 2010 departure for China, where she will be a new and important contributor to the global captive population of giant pandas. The Give So They Stay campaign, launched on June 17, seeks to ensure that her parents Lun Lun and Yang Yang, and, in turn, their species, continue to have a home in Atlanta.
Pandamonium is free for Zoo Atlanta Members and children under 3; free with general admission. Special activities will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit zooatlanta.org for event details. For news and updates on the Give So They Stay campaign, visit givesotheystay.org.
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Friends around the world are invited to enjoy panda-centric activities, refreshments, crafts and special keeper talks while the guests of honor enjoy birthday surprises. Guests who arrive between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. can purchase $1 raffle tickets for a chance at one of the Zoo’s rarest and most coveted opportunities: an exclusive behind-the-scenes opportunity to meet one of the giant pandas. Raffle proceeds benefit the Give So They Stay campaign to keep giant pandas in Atlanta.
Fans who have followed the world-famous Mei Lan since her birth on September 6, 2006 are encouraged to attend, as the September 19 event will be her last American birthday party. The 3-year-old female has been recommended for an early 2010 departure for China, where she will be a new and important contributor to the global captive population of giant pandas. The Give So They Stay campaign, launched on June 17, seeks to ensure that her parents Lun Lun and Yang Yang, and, in turn, their species, continue to have a home in Atlanta.
Pandamonium is free for Zoo Atlanta Members and children under 3; free with general admission. Special activities will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit zooatlanta.org for event details. For news and updates on the Give So They Stay campaign, visit givesotheystay.org.
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Friday, September 4, 2009
Newborn Great Ape Expected At Zoo Atlanta
Come spring, North America’s foremost collection of orangutans may be hearing the cries of a brand-new redhead. Miri, a 17-year-old Bornean orangutan at Zoo Atlanta, is believed to be expecting her second infant. While conclusive tests have not yet been conducted, the Animal Management and Veterinary Teams suspect that Miri is pregnant based on visible swelling of her external reproductive areas. Orangutan gestation is 235 to 270 days, suggesting a March or April delivery.
Miri and her mate, 16-year-old Sulango, have one offspring, Satu. Five-year-old Satu was the first Bornean orangutan born at Zoo Atlanta and remains with his mother. The mother/infant bond is particularly strong in orangutans, which are second only to humans in duration of dependent childhood.
Zoo Atlanta houses the nation’s largest zoological collection of orangutans, with 10 individuals living in separate family groups. Lori Perkins, Director of Animal Programs, serves as chair of the Orangutan Species Survival Plan (SSP) and recently hosted a national consortium of animal care and veterinary experts at the annual Orangutan SSP Husbandry Workshop held at Zoo Atlanta.
Native to the island of Borneo in Indonesia, Bornean orangutans are endangered due to habitat loss, over-harvesting of timber and human encroachment. Bornean orangutans are more numerous than their critically endangered Sumatran counterparts, also represented at Zoo Atlanta, but experts predict that both could be extinct in 10 years without targeted conservation efforts.
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Miri and her mate, 16-year-old Sulango, have one offspring, Satu. Five-year-old Satu was the first Bornean orangutan born at Zoo Atlanta and remains with his mother. The mother/infant bond is particularly strong in orangutans, which are second only to humans in duration of dependent childhood.
Zoo Atlanta houses the nation’s largest zoological collection of orangutans, with 10 individuals living in separate family groups. Lori Perkins, Director of Animal Programs, serves as chair of the Orangutan Species Survival Plan (SSP) and recently hosted a national consortium of animal care and veterinary experts at the annual Orangutan SSP Husbandry Workshop held at Zoo Atlanta.
Native to the island of Borneo in Indonesia, Bornean orangutans are endangered due to habitat loss, over-harvesting of timber and human encroachment. Bornean orangutans are more numerous than their critically endangered Sumatran counterparts, also represented at Zoo Atlanta, but experts predict that both could be extinct in 10 years without targeted conservation efforts.
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Monday, August 31, 2009
Zoo Atlanta Hosts Larger-than-life Announcement
We’re all panda fans – now on a grander scale. On August 20 in Atlantic Station’s Central Park, Zoo Atlanta hosted an unveiling of five eye-catching nods of support for the campaign to keep giant pandas in Atlanta. The 10-foot panels, each bearing the words “I’m a panda fan,” depict giant photos of Atlanta Falcons Owner and CEO Arthur Blank; Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin; Ambassador Andrew Young; V-103 Celebrity DJ Frank Ski; and Zoo Atlanta President and CEO Dennis Kelly, all wearing black-and-white bear masks. The panels are a creative demonstration of the building momentum of the Give So They Stay campaign launched on June 17.
Prior to the unveiling, Doug Childers and Molly Dana, organizers of the recent Pints for Pandas fundraiser, presented Zoo Atlanta with a donation of $6,500 generated by the sellout event, hosted by SweetWater Brewery on August 14. Rich Chey, owner of HomeGrown Restaurant Concepts, Inc., presented a donation of $1,500 collected by the Dine Out for Pandas series hosted by local venues in July. As of August 20, the Zoo had raised a total of $80,900 toward the initiative.
“Zoo Atlanta is honored by the show of support from Arthur Blank, Mayor Franklin, Ambassador Young and Frank Ski, and we’re very excited by the success of grassroots efforts like Pints for Pandas and Dine Out for Pandas,” said Marcus E. Margerum, Vice President of Marketing and Sales, Zoo Atlanta. “The community clearly has the power to make a difference to the future of the Zoo’s giant panda program.”
Located in Atlantic Station’s East District adjacent to Z Gallerie, the celebrity panels will be displayed for the remainder of the Give So They Stay campaign, which continues through December 31, 2009.
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Prior to the unveiling, Doug Childers and Molly Dana, organizers of the recent Pints for Pandas fundraiser, presented Zoo Atlanta with a donation of $6,500 generated by the sellout event, hosted by SweetWater Brewery on August 14. Rich Chey, owner of HomeGrown Restaurant Concepts, Inc., presented a donation of $1,500 collected by the Dine Out for Pandas series hosted by local venues in July. As of August 20, the Zoo had raised a total of $80,900 toward the initiative.
“Zoo Atlanta is honored by the show of support from Arthur Blank, Mayor Franklin, Ambassador Young and Frank Ski, and we’re very excited by the success of grassroots efforts like Pints for Pandas and Dine Out for Pandas,” said Marcus E. Margerum, Vice President of Marketing and Sales, Zoo Atlanta. “The community clearly has the power to make a difference to the future of the Zoo’s giant panda program.”
Located in Atlantic Station’s East District adjacent to Z Gallerie, the celebrity panels will be displayed for the remainder of the Give So They Stay campaign, which continues through December 31, 2009.
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Monday, July 6, 2009
Angolan Colobus Monkeys Debut at Zoo Atlanta
George and Kinshasa, two Angolan colobus monkeys, began cruising the treetops of their new home in Zoo Atlanta’s Ford African Rain Forest during Independence Day weekend. The recent arrivals, George from Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Kinshasa from Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo, will be part of an exciting mixed-species habitat introducing Zoo guests to the diverse lifestyles and behaviors of African primates.
Angolan colobus monkeys are visually stunning animals, easily recognized by their black faces framed by long locks of snow-white hair. Native to forests throughout much of central Africa, the species is not currently listed as endangered.
Other great incentives includes an offer to “Beat the Heat,” a discount that allows visitors who arrive before 11 a.m. to enjoy $5 off general admission per guest. The promotion is valid on Saturdays and Sundays through July 26.
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Angolan colobus monkeys are visually stunning animals, easily recognized by their black faces framed by long locks of snow-white hair. Native to forests throughout much of central Africa, the species is not currently listed as endangered.
Other great incentives includes an offer to “Beat the Heat,” a discount that allows visitors who arrive before 11 a.m. to enjoy $5 off general admission per guest. The promotion is valid on Saturdays and Sundays through July 26.
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Thursday, June 18, 2009
Zoo Atlanta Launches Campaign to Keep Giant Pandas in Atlanta
Zoo officials announced the launch of Give So They Stay, a major fundraising effort to keep giant pandas in Atlanta. President & CEO Dennis Kelly made the announcement this morning from inside an empty giant panda habitat in the Zoo’s Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation Giant Panda Conservation Center.
“Giant pandas have been an important part of Zoo Atlanta’s collection and a source of Atlanta pride for 10 years, and we are a national leader in the care and study of this species,” said Kelly. “Without significant support from our community, our giant panda family will have to return to China in the near future.”
Zoo Atlanta is one of only four zoos in the U.S. currently housing the critically endangered species, of which fewer than 1,600 are believed to remain in the wild. The Zoo’s adult giant pandas, Lun Lun and Yang Yang, arrived from China in November 1999 on a 10-year loan, achieving instant celebrity as two of Atlanta’s most recognized animal stars. The pair’s offspring, Mei Lan, 2, and Xi Lan, 9 months, were the only giant panda cubs born in the U.S. in 2006 and 2008.
The Give So They Stay campaign is focused on ensuring that Lun Lun, Yang Yang and Xi Lan continue to have a home in Atlanta, where they have become beloved by thousands of friends and fans around the world. Mei Lan, who turns 3 on September 6, has already been recommended to return China, where she will be a new and important contributor to the global captive population of giant pandas.
Friends of Zoo Atlanta’s giant pandas are encouraged to visit a new campaign website, www.givesotheystay.org, for program information, support vehicles and answers to frequently asked questions. The Give So They Stay effort will continue through December 31, 2009.
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“Giant pandas have been an important part of Zoo Atlanta’s collection and a source of Atlanta pride for 10 years, and we are a national leader in the care and study of this species,” said Kelly. “Without significant support from our community, our giant panda family will have to return to China in the near future.”
Zoo Atlanta is one of only four zoos in the U.S. currently housing the critically endangered species, of which fewer than 1,600 are believed to remain in the wild. The Zoo’s adult giant pandas, Lun Lun and Yang Yang, arrived from China in November 1999 on a 10-year loan, achieving instant celebrity as two of Atlanta’s most recognized animal stars. The pair’s offspring, Mei Lan, 2, and Xi Lan, 9 months, were the only giant panda cubs born in the U.S. in 2006 and 2008.
The Give So They Stay campaign is focused on ensuring that Lun Lun, Yang Yang and Xi Lan continue to have a home in Atlanta, where they have become beloved by thousands of friends and fans around the world. Mei Lan, who turns 3 on September 6, has already been recommended to return China, where she will be a new and important contributor to the global captive population of giant pandas.
Friends of Zoo Atlanta’s giant pandas are encouraged to visit a new campaign website, www.givesotheystay.org, for program information, support vehicles and answers to frequently asked questions. The Give So They Stay effort will continue through December 31, 2009.
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Saturday, May 30, 2009
Oldest Male Bongo Antelope In North America Passes At Zoo Atlanta
Zoo Atlanta President and CEO Dennis Kelly announced earlier this week that Bingo, a male eastern bongo antelope, was euthanized on Sunday, May 24. At 17, Bingo was the oldest male bongo living in an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited institution. He was also the fourth oldest bongo in captivity worldwide. Zoo Atlanta’s Animal Management and Veterinary Team based the decision to euthanize Bingo after his health began to decline suddenly on Saturday. Born May 5, 1992 at Miami Metrozoo, Bingo had lived at Zoo Atlanta since 2002.
“We are saddened by the passing of Bingo, who was a special part of the Zoo Atlanta family and an important representative of this endangered species,” said Kelly. “The fact that he was one of the world’s oldest bongos is evidence of the superior care he received throughout his life.”
A necropsy was performed at the University of Georgia through Zoo Atlanta’s partnership with the Department of Pathology in the College of Veterinary Medicine, and results will be available in several weeks.
Eastern bongos are among the Zoo’s most endangered mammals, with fewer than 500 believed to remain in the wild. Zoo Atlanta participates in AZA’s Bongo Species Survival Plan, which seeks to maintain a self-sustaining, genetically diverse population within North American zoos and has reintroduced bongos to eastern Africa.
Zoo Atlanta’s female eastern bongo, Mzima, 19, is the oldest bongo living in an AZA institution and the second oldest of her species in captivity in the world.
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“We are saddened by the passing of Bingo, who was a special part of the Zoo Atlanta family and an important representative of this endangered species,” said Kelly. “The fact that he was one of the world’s oldest bongos is evidence of the superior care he received throughout his life.”
A necropsy was performed at the University of Georgia through Zoo Atlanta’s partnership with the Department of Pathology in the College of Veterinary Medicine, and results will be available in several weeks.
Eastern bongos are among the Zoo’s most endangered mammals, with fewer than 500 believed to remain in the wild. Zoo Atlanta participates in AZA’s Bongo Species Survival Plan, which seeks to maintain a self-sustaining, genetically diverse population within North American zoos and has reintroduced bongos to eastern Africa.
Zoo Atlanta’s female eastern bongo, Mzima, 19, is the oldest bongo living in an AZA institution and the second oldest of her species in captivity in the world.
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Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Shamba the Gorilla Turns 50
Shamba, a female western lowland gorilla at Zoo Atlanta, turned 50 on Sunday, May 24. The Zoo’s eldest primate is the sixth oldest member of her species living in North America and one of the 10 oldest gorillas in the world.
Born in Africa in 1959, Shamba is one of only three surviving members of the original group of western lowland gorillas that moved to Zoo Atlanta in the 1980s (The others are female Choomba and male Ozzie, both 48.) The first residents of the Zoo’s Ford African Rain Forest, Shamba and her contemporaries, including the legendary late Willie B., were the founders of what is today the nation’s second-largest collection of western lowland gorillas.
Since 1989, 17 gorillas have been born at Zoo Atlanta. Among these are Shamba’s son Taz, 19, and his offspring Kali, Kazi and Macy Baby, all 3, and Gunther, 2. Shamba’s contributions to the zoological community far exceed her Zoo Atlanta progeny: she has four children, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren living at other accredited institutions in North America.
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Born in Africa in 1959, Shamba is one of only three surviving members of the original group of western lowland gorillas that moved to Zoo Atlanta in the 1980s (The others are female Choomba and male Ozzie, both 48.) The first residents of the Zoo’s Ford African Rain Forest, Shamba and her contemporaries, including the legendary late Willie B., were the founders of what is today the nation’s second-largest collection of western lowland gorillas.
Since 1989, 17 gorillas have been born at Zoo Atlanta. Among these are Shamba’s son Taz, 19, and his offspring Kali, Kazi and Macy Baby, all 3, and Gunther, 2. Shamba’s contributions to the zoological community far exceed her Zoo Atlanta progeny: she has four children, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren living at other accredited institutions in North America.
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Thursday, May 21, 2009
Zoo Atlanta's Naked Mole Rat Queen Gives Birth
Zoo Atlanta’s naked mole rat queen has given birth to her first litter of pups.
The Animal Management and Veterinary Teams discovered at least six
newborn members of the Zoo’s strangest animal society on May 19.
Hairless, sightless and roughly an inch long, the new arrivals are estimated
to weigh between 1 and 2 grams. The pups have already been observed
crawling over a tight formation of adult colony members, who remain huddled
in the nest for the infants’ warmth and protection.
The queen may nurse her offspring for up to 2 months, but the entire colony
is tasked with their care. Workers are also responsible for the transport of
the pups in the event that the queen selects a new nesting area. The pups’
eyes should open at 20 to 30 days, at which time the juveniles may also start
eating solid foods.
To avoid disrupting the colony, the Animal Management and Veterinary Teams
will wait days before resuming any maintenance activities that could
disturb the queen or her pups. Fortunately, there’s no wait for curious guests!
Visitors can see the Zoo’s unusual underground family and their exciting additions
in their habitat daily.
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The Animal Management and Veterinary Teams discovered at least six
newborn members of the Zoo’s strangest animal society on May 19.
Hairless, sightless and roughly an inch long, the new arrivals are estimated
to weigh between 1 and 2 grams. The pups have already been observed
crawling over a tight formation of adult colony members, who remain huddled
in the nest for the infants’ warmth and protection.
The queen may nurse her offspring for up to 2 months, but the entire colony
is tasked with their care. Workers are also responsible for the transport of
the pups in the event that the queen selects a new nesting area. The pups’
eyes should open at 20 to 30 days, at which time the juveniles may also start
eating solid foods.
To avoid disrupting the colony, the Animal Management and Veterinary Teams
will wait days before resuming any maintenance activities that could
disturb the queen or her pups. Fortunately, there’s no wait for curious guests!
Visitors can see the Zoo’s unusual underground family and their exciting additions
in their habitat daily.
-----
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Friday, May 8, 2009
Zoo Atlanta Officials Announce Possible Pregnanacy of Naked Mole Rat Queen
Zoo Atlanta’s strangest animal society may be expecting their first litter. Zoo Atlanta’s Animal Management and Veterinary Teams are reasonably certain that the naked mole rat queen is pregnant based on several changes as bizarre as the species itself.
The pregnancy also confirms that the dominant female has officially been crowned the monarch of her underground kingdom. Rival naked mole rat females fight for supremacy, and the dominant female is recognized as queen by the rest of the colony. Over a period of months, her vertebrae become elongated, resulting in a gradual expansion of her skeletal structure until she is physically larger and longer than any other member of the colony.
Naked mole rat gestation is 72 days, but Zoo Atlanta officials aren’t certain as to when the new queen will deliver. The litter size is 5 to 15 pups, although naked mole rat queens have been
known to birth as many as 27 pups at a time.
Native to subterranean tunnels beneath the grasslands of Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia, naked mole rats and a related species, the Damaraland mole rat, are the world’s only known eusocial mammals. Naked mole rat colonies are hierarchically arranged in the service of a queen, similarly to bees, ants and termites. Only the queen breeds, typically with one to three select
males; other colony members serve as soldiers or workers.
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The pregnancy also confirms that the dominant female has officially been crowned the monarch of her underground kingdom. Rival naked mole rat females fight for supremacy, and the dominant female is recognized as queen by the rest of the colony. Over a period of months, her vertebrae become elongated, resulting in a gradual expansion of her skeletal structure until she is physically larger and longer than any other member of the colony.
Naked mole rat gestation is 72 days, but Zoo Atlanta officials aren’t certain as to when the new queen will deliver. The litter size is 5 to 15 pups, although naked mole rat queens have been
known to birth as many as 27 pups at a time.
Native to subterranean tunnels beneath the grasslands of Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia, naked mole rats and a related species, the Damaraland mole rat, are the world’s only known eusocial mammals. Naked mole rat colonies are hierarchically arranged in the service of a queen, similarly to bees, ants and termites. Only the queen breeds, typically with one to three select
males; other colony members serve as soldiers or workers.
-----
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Friday, April 24, 2009
Zoo Atlanta Mourns Passing of Sumatran Tiger
Zoo Atlanta President and CEO Dennis Kelly announced yesterday that Sekayu, a
female Sumatran tiger, was euthanized. The decision was made to euthanize Sekayu because of her deteriorating physical condition. At age 21, Sekayu was the oldest known Sumatran tiger in North America.
Zoo Atlanta’s Animal Management and Veterinary Teams had been treating the tigress for age-related health concerns. Sekayu’s passing is a bittersweet reminder of the natural cycle defining the lives of all animals. “We are saddened by the passing of Sekayu, who was a special part of our family for 16 years. Our Veterinary and Animal Management Teams worked diligently to ensure that Sekayu received the best treatment and care possible,” said Dennis Kelly, Zoo Atlanta President and CEO. “The fact that she was the oldest of her species currently on record is a testament to the excellent care she received throughout her life.”
Born October 23, 1987, at San Diego Zoo, Sekayu resided at the Phoenix Zoo before becoming a beloved member of the Zoo Atlanta family since 1993. Sekayu was an excellent mother to several cubs while at the Phoenix Zoo. She and her longtime mate in Atlanta, 18-year-old Jalal, have one offspring, Bahagia, born in November 2000. Bahagia now resides at the Sacramento Zoo. Zoo Atlanta also houses a younger pair of Sumatran tigers, female Chelsea, 5, and male Kavi, 8. Sumatrans are one of the world’s most critically endangered tigers, with fewer than 400 believed to remain in the wild.
As with all animal deaths regardless of age, a necropsy will be performed through Zoo Atlanta’s partnership with the Department of Pathology in the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Georgia.
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female Sumatran tiger, was euthanized. The decision was made to euthanize Sekayu because of her deteriorating physical condition. At age 21, Sekayu was the oldest known Sumatran tiger in North America.
Zoo Atlanta’s Animal Management and Veterinary Teams had been treating the tigress for age-related health concerns. Sekayu’s passing is a bittersweet reminder of the natural cycle defining the lives of all animals. “We are saddened by the passing of Sekayu, who was a special part of our family for 16 years. Our Veterinary and Animal Management Teams worked diligently to ensure that Sekayu received the best treatment and care possible,” said Dennis Kelly, Zoo Atlanta President and CEO. “The fact that she was the oldest of her species currently on record is a testament to the excellent care she received throughout her life.”
Born October 23, 1987, at San Diego Zoo, Sekayu resided at the Phoenix Zoo before becoming a beloved member of the Zoo Atlanta family since 1993. Sekayu was an excellent mother to several cubs while at the Phoenix Zoo. She and her longtime mate in Atlanta, 18-year-old Jalal, have one offspring, Bahagia, born in November 2000. Bahagia now resides at the Sacramento Zoo. Zoo Atlanta also houses a younger pair of Sumatran tigers, female Chelsea, 5, and male Kavi, 8. Sumatrans are one of the world’s most critically endangered tigers, with fewer than 400 believed to remain in the wild.
As with all animal deaths regardless of age, a necropsy will be performed through Zoo Atlanta’s partnership with the Department of Pathology in the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Georgia.
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