KCZoo Touch Tank Underway How do you think a stingray feels? Slippery like soap? Scratchy like a tree trunk? You will soon be able to feel for yourself at our Zoo’s new touch tank, which will be home to both stingrays and small sharks. Construction began in October and the brand new exhibit is expected to open to the public in May 2018.

Guests will have the opportunity to dip their hands into a shallow pool and discover the unique texture and movement of both cownose and southern stingrays. You’ll be able to tell the two species apart because cownose rays have a unique feature—long, pointed pectoral fins that separate into two lobes in front of their high-domed heads. A crease in the lobes and a notched head create a cow-nose likeness that gives these rays their name. Southern stingrays, however, have large, flat, diamond-shaped disks without distinct heads. In addition to stingrays, the tank will also be home to one of the smallest species of sharks, white-spotted bamboo sharks. These sharks are known as “cat sharks” because the barbels, or sensory organs near their mouths, resemble cat whiskers.

The new exhibit will be located between Helzberg Penguin Plaza and Discovery Barn, and will be open year-round. During the hotter months of the year, the sides will be opened and overhead fans will keep the exhibit cooled for guests. When it’s colder, the sides can be closed and the building will be heated.

The touch tank itself will contain about 20,000 gallons of water and will be shaped like a kidney bean, in order to fit as many guests as possible around the tank while also providing a place for Zoo staff to stand and provide education about the stingrays and sharks. It will be shallower at the outer edge and built at a height that will provide access to everyone. The center of the pool will be deeper, so animals that choose not to be touched have a place to rest.

One of the exhibit’s most important features will be located behind the scenes. A state-of-the-art water filtration system will ensure that the tank’s water stays clean and clear, providing a healthy habitat for its inhabitants. As guests enter the touch tank exhibit, they will be required to wash their hands so that no human germs are passed along.

Entrance to the touch tank will be included with regular Zoo admission. There will, however, be a limited number of feeding opportunities daily for an additional fee. The project is estimated to cost approximately $3 million to complete, funded by private

donations and the Zoological District.

We hope you’ll visit often over the winter and watch as this fun new addition takes shape. There will be a special preview for Friends of the Zoo members early in 2018, so watch your email for more information about that event as it draws nearer!

NONPROFIT ORGU.S. POSTAGE

PA I DKANSAS CITY, MO

#4831

6800 Zoo Drive | Kansas City, MO 64132816.595.1234 | www.KansasCityZoo.org

LOOK INSIDE!

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Holiday Gift Guide

See page 15

Zoo Mission: The Kansas City Zoo connects people to each other and the natural world to promote understanding, appreciation, and conservation.

OPEN DAILY!

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17

A quarterly publication of the Kansas City Zoo

November–February9:30 a.m. through 4 p.m. Daily

CLOSEDThanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day

It’s a Boy!A male Asian Small-clawed Otter was born on August 27 to mom Cai, age ten, and dad Ian, age six. Both parents are caring for their baby behind the scenes so it will be late November before the whole family is visible in the exhibit together.

Asian Small-clawed Otters are native to the wetlands and mangrove swamps in Southeast Asia, where they feed on crustaceans, mollusks and fish. Every aspect of an otter’s body is designed for efficient swimming, including their long, torpedo-shaped body, muscular tail, flattened head, and webbed feet. These otters are the smallest of the world’s 13 otter species.

Due to habitat degradation, illegal hunting, and pollution of waterways, Asian Small-clawed Otters are listed as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. The Kansas City Zoo, along with other accredited North American zoos, participates in the Association of Zoos & Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan© to breed species and maintain a high level of genetic diversity in populations under human care.

Visit the Zoo in late November to hopefully catch a glimpse of the new baby on exhibit with his parents in Tropics.

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2017 Friends of the Zoo BOARD OF DIRECTORSTodd LaSala, Chairperson

Stinson, Leonard, Street LLP

Hayley Hanson, Secretary Husch Blackwell

Sal Montalbano, Treasurer PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP

Karen Begelfer, SprintBrad Bodamer, Shook Hardy Bacon, LLPChuck Caisley, KCP&LSharon Cleaver, Boys & Girls Clubs

of Greater Kansas CityRod Crawford, Glazer’sWes Dixon, Keywest TechnologiesTrish Dorsey, PolsinelliChris Egan, SMG ServicesWesley Fields, Bryan Cave LLPMark Killen, American Century InvestmentsGayle Krigel, Community VolunteerJill McGee, Saint Paul’s Episcopal Day SchoolYvette Miceli, Construction Brokers, Inc.John Myers, Research Medical CenterDean Rodenbough, Hallmark CardsMelissa Roe, Community VolunteerCiCi Rojas, Central ExchangeDavid Sanchez, Jr., Price Waterhouse CoopersCarla Sanders, AMC TheatresKathy Smith, Community VolunteerTom Waggoner, HOKDavid Yeamans, Burns & McDonnell

Representing the City of Kansas City Allen Dillingham, Commissioner,

Board of Parks and RecreationAlissia Canady, City Council Mark McHenry, Director, Parks and RecreationKevin McManus, City CouncilTroy Schulte, City Manager

Zoological District CommissionersJerry Nolte, Chair, Clay CountyDan Tarwater III, Vice Chair, Jackson CountyGreg Canuteson, Clay CountyMark McHenry, KC Parks and Recreation

RepresentativeKevin Pistilli, Jackson CountyRandy Wisthoff, KC Zoo Representative

Open daily, year round. Closed only on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

www.KansasCityZoo.org816.595.1234

The Kansas City Zoo is a non-smoking environment except in designated areas which are indicated on the

Zoo Map and on grounds with signs and ash trays.

The Kansas City Zoo, a private, non-profit organization is operated in agreement with the Kansas City, MO Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners, partially funded by the Zoological District in Jackson and Clay Counties in MO, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

15Expeditions — 4th Quarter 2017

Holiday Gift Guide

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u2018 FOTZ MembershipFOTZ Membership makes an incredible gift for the holidays; it’s the gift that gives both ways! Support the Zoo’s mission and

provide and individual or family with the opportunity to make incredible, life long memories. 2018 FOTZ Memberships are a tax-deductible gift that keeps on giving until March 31, 2019! Save $10 (until Dec. 31) on premier level memberships which include unlimited rides on ALL KCZoo transportation as well as a 20% discount on gift shop, food and beverage purchases!

Holiday-Shaped Jigsaw PuzzlesHoliday shaped jigsaw puzzles 1000 pieces; Santa’s Snowy Ride and Gingerbread House $19.99

Animal-Shaped TeapotsGiraffe, Elephant and Tiger are available for $59.99

We also have animal-shaped butter dishes, salt and pepper shakers and spoon rests.

Snow GlobePolar bear and penguins snow globe $9.99

Tin AnimalsHandcrafted in ZIMBABWE Rhino: $39.99

Seedpod BirdsBody made from seedpods and legs made from wire handcrafted in ZIMBABWE (flamingo pictured) $9.99

2018 FOTZ MEMBER

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Adopt-a-Wild Child$50 A framed animal photo, an animal fact

sheet, an official adoption certificate, an Expeditions subscription (Zoo newsletter) and an Adopt-a-Wild Child picnic invitation (picnic is held late summer or early fall).

$100 All the benefits of the $50 level, plus an Adopt-a-Wild Child t-shirt and your choice of either four Zoo passes or four Platinum Rides Wristbands.

$250 All the benefits of the $50 level, plus an Adopt-a-Wild Child t-shirt, an invitation to the free, unique and educational “Meet the Keepers” breakfast (usually held in the Spring) and your choice of either six Zoo passes or six Platinum Rides Wristbands.

$500 All the benefits of the $50 level, plus an Adopt-a-Wild Child t-shirt, an invitation to the free, unique and educational “Meet the Keepers” breakfast, your choice of either eight Zoo passes or eight Platinum Rides Wristbands AND an exclusive two-hour docent-led golf cart tour. Enjoy the Zoo on your own private golf cart! Five people maximum per tour. All tours must be scheduled at least one week in advance.

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Tall Tails 3D Magnet & KeychainTall tails 3D magnet and keychain $4.99 each

Mugs and postcards available in same design.

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Help Us Continue to Grow!

2017 continues to be a year of growth for the Kansas City Zoo. This year, we welcomed the addition of the Three Billy Goats Gruff Yard, located near the Discovery Barn. It was cuteness overload this spring as we welcomed five baby Arapawa goats. The exhibit allows children to get up-close and personal with our 22 goats (including the new kids!) by feeding them as they roam their 5,000 square-foot playground space. We are also excited to announce plans for

the newest interactive exhibit, the stingray and shark touch tank coming in spring 2018!

In order to provide the best care and most natural of habitats for our animals, we need the continuous support from the Kansas City community. You can help support our animals directly by adopting an animal through our Adopt a Wild Child program!

Symbolically adopt one of our animal friends — like Dusty our one year old Bornean Orangutan; Tamani, our male African Elephant, or Swiss the Pygmy Goat. Your tax-deductible gift helps support the ongoing development of the Kansas City Zoo and helps fund the purchase of enrichment items that engage our animals’ natural behaviors and stimulates their physical and psychological needs. Your support helps our animals live happy, healthy lives.

Visit kansascityzoo.org/donations to learn how you can make an impactful gift to the Zoo.

14 www.kansascityzoo.org 3Expeditions — 4th Quarter 2017

Zoo CalendarEvery month there are activities for all age groups.

December

Check out our calendar of events online at KansasCityZoo.org to find out more information and to make reservations or call 816.595.1234 for more assistance.

NovemberSat/Sun, Nov

11 & 1210 a.m.–2 p.m.

Zootastik Learning Fest: Red Panda Pandas come in red, too! Find out more about these elusive animals at Zootastik Learning Fest. We will have activities set up in the lobby. Kids will be invited to become Red Panda Rangers. Learn about where red pandas live, what they eat, and make your own red panda craft. We’ll also have coloring pages, a bamboo maze and a Red Panda Ranger badge for kids who complete 3 or more activities.

Sat/Sun, Nov

18 & 1910 a.m.–3 p.m.

Feline Frenzy Spend a cat-terrific weekend with us and learn all about our wild cats!

Sat/Sun, Nov

18 & 1910:30 a.m.

Cheetah Enrichment What is the fastest animal on land? A cheetah, and we have three of them at the Zoo! Watch as our three boys, Viserion, Rhaegal, and Drogon, receive enrichment items at cheetah exhibit in Africa at 10:30 a.m., weather permitting. Courtesy of EyeMart Express.

Fri–Sun, Nov

24–26FOTZ Members Invited to Bring a Guest Thanksgiving Weekend The more, the merrier on Thanksgiving weekend at the Zoo! Friends of the Zoo (FOTZ) members are invited to bring up to four guests to receive complimentary admission on November 25–27.

Fri–Sun, Nov

24–262 p.m.

Santa Dives What’s red and white and swimming with the penguins at Helzberg Penguin Plaza? Santa! Get a one-of-a-kind photo of Santa as penguins torpedo around him. Watch the penguin bubbles trail the man in the red suit and hear the children giggle. Dives are at 2 p.m.

Sat/Sun, Nov

25 & 2610 a.m.–2 p.m.

Species Spotlight: Tigers & Cheetahs We are turning the spotlight on our tigers, Conrad and Thomas, and our cheetahs, Drogon, Viserion and Rhaegal. Visit the tiger exhibit for a Zookeeper chat and then see the boys enjoy treats and enrichment items. Stop by the cheetah exhibit to learn all about our new cheetahs during Zookeeper chats. Stop by the lobby to pick up your tiger and cheetah trading cards. Collect them all year long at Species Spotlight. All activities are included with Zoo admission! Thanks to Delta Dental for sponsoring this event.

Sat/Sun, Nov

25 & 2611 a.m.

King and Gentoo Penguin March Stop by the Helzberg Penguin Plaza at 11 a.m. to see the Penguin March. Our cold weather birds will march from the back of the exhibit, outside for our guests to see and then back inside the building, weather permitting. See king and gentoo penguins up close at the Penguin March.

Sat/Sun, Dec

2 & 310 a.m.–3 p.m.

Holiday Wild Santa, his elves and Mrs. Claus will be at the Zoo for Holiday Wild. This is your chance to tell him what’s on your wish list. Join us for polar-riffic activities in Helzberg Penguin Plaza. Bring your camera and have your picture taken with Santa! Friends of the Zoo (FOTZ) members will enjoy an exclusive breakfast snack and a special meet and greet with Santa on Saturday, December 2 from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Sat/Sun, Dec

2 & 3,9 & 10,16 & 17

2 p.m.

Santa Dives What’s red and white and swimming with the penguins at Helzberg Penguin Plaza? Santa! Get a one-of-a-kind photo of Santa as penguins torpedo around him. Watch the penguin bubbles trail the man in the red suit and hear the children giggle. Dives are at 2 p.m.

Sat/Sun, Dec

2 & 3,9 & 10,

16 & 17,23 & 24,30 & 31

11 a.m.

King and Gentoo Penguin March Stop by the Helzberg Penguin Plaza at 11 a.m. to see the Penguin March. Our cold weather birds will march from the back of the exhibit, outside for our guests to see and then back inside the building, weather permitting. See king and gentoo penguins up close at the Penguin March.

Sat/Sun, Dec

9 & 1010 a.m.–2 p.m.

Zootastik Learning Fest: Reindeer & Caribou On, Comet! On, Cupid! On Donner and Blitzen! Join us at Zootastik Learning Fest to learn all about reindeer and caribou and why they are so special, especially this time of year. Enjoy hands-on activities while you learn where these animals live, besides the North Pole, and what they eat. We’ll show you how to make your own reindeer food to take home so you can sprinkle some on your lawn for Santa’s very hungry reindeer to enjoy!

Sat/Sun, Dec

16 & 1710 a.m.–3 p.m.

Winter Wonderland The Zoo will be transformed into a magical winter wonderland. Polar Bear Passage will become the North Pole while Helzberg Penguin Plaza turns into the South Pole. Enjoy delicious treats, letters to Santa and much more! Our gentoo and king penguins will venture outside in the frosty air for a Penguin March at 11 a.m. See Santa dive underwater with our penguins at 2 p.m. What would a lion do with a Christmas tree decked in ornaments and presents underneath? Find out at 10 a.m. Get into the holiday spirit with this festive weekend at the Kansas City Zoo!

Sat/Sun, Dec

16 & 1710:30 a.m.

Cheetah Enrichment What is the fastest animal on land? A cheetah, and we have three of them at the Zoo! Watch as our three boys, Viserion, Rhaegal, and Drogon, receive enrichment items at cheetah exhibit in Africa at 10:30 a.m., weather permitting. Courtesy of EyeMart Express.

Sun, Dec

3110 a.m.–2 p.m.

Zoo Year’s Eve Celebrate the coming of a new year with polar bears, and many more animals while they enjoy festive enrichment items.

2018 FOTZ Membership

FOTZ only events & hours

MakesfantasticGIFTS

UNLIMITEDADMISSION

until March 31, 2019

20% Discount on Food & Beverage and Gift Shop for Premier Level; 10% discount for Basic Level

Pays for

itselfin

2 VISITS

Discounted, reciprocal admission to over

150 accredited Zoos and Aquariums

Purchase your FOTZ Membership Today!

ZOO

www.kansascityzoo.org

816.595.1234

CLICKor

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FOTZ Membership has its Perks!All FOTZ Members receive these privileges:FREE and speedy admission to the Kansas City Zoo year round

FREE or discounted admission to more than 150 zoos and aquariums throughout the U.S. and Canada

DISCOUNTS on education programs and birthday parties

FREE quarterly newsletters, weekly emails and invitations to FOTZ members-only activities

FREE admission at FOTZ-only events

20% DISCOUNT on food, beverages and gift shop purchases for Premier Membership, 10% DISCOUNT for Basic Membership

50% OFF additional general admission tickets! (Day of purchase use only, limit 4 per visit)

Please consider giving the gift of a FOTZ membership this year; 2018 memberships will be available starting Nov 1, 2017. Renewing members will receive a $5 discount with purchase before March 31, 2018 when all 2017 memberships expire.

STINGRAY & SHARK –TOUCH TANK–

Open May 2018

SAVE $10 on Premier levels until Dec 31

Joining FOTZ is easy!Sign up online at kansascityzoo.org, or call 816.595.1234

2018 Memberships valid through March 31, 2019

Zoo Education Events

Preschool ProgramsAges 3–5CRITTER CLUBJoin the club! Each class will highlight an animal or topic with songs, stories, a brief lesson, animal presentation and a craft. This exciting, hands-on program allows you to explore different preschool-friendly concepts about animals. Pre-registration is required.Wednesday or Thursdays, 11am–Noon through December 14; resumes January 17, 2018

Cost: $7 per child, adults are free; FOTZ members receive a 10% discount

GOODNIGHT ZOOIf the daytime hours don’t work for you, come and enjoy a night of exploration stations, songs, education games/activities, crafts, and so much more, all after hours! Want to know the best part? You get to wear your jammies and bring your favorite stuffed animal! Each child must be accompanied by an adult. Preregistration is required.

Cost: $20 per child; $5 per adult; FOTZ Members receive a 10% discount

November 18 TURKEY TIMEIt’s turkey time! Turkey is definitely on the brain but what about all of their feathery friends? Spend an evening at the zoo learning about Birds!

December 9 SNOWFLAKE SAFARIEver wonder where all the animals go in the winter? Some hibernate, but others thrive in the snow. Check out some of the “coolest” animals that call the North Pole home!

Day CampsBefore and After Care available. Preregistration is required.

Winter Break CampAges: 5–12; 8:30am–3:30pm Cost: $150; FOTZ Members receive a 10% discountDecember 27–29 CHEW ON THIS!No Hunger Games here! Discover who eats what and who eats who. Decide where you fit in and which animal friends share the same culinary tastes. You’ll be surprised how many animals like the same foods as you.

Day 1: Herbivores/Plant-eatersDay 2: Carnivores/Meat-eatersDay 3: Omnivores/Eats Both

School’s OutAges: 5–12; 8:30am–3:30pm Cost: $50 per child per day; FOTZ Members receive a 10% discountNovember 22 TURKEY TROUBLEIt’s turkey time! Turkey is definitely on the brain but what about all of their feathery friends? Enjoy a day focused entirely on birds. You will gobble it up. December 21 REINDEER GAMESCaribou or Reindeer? Whatever you call them, you are sure to have fun with these arctic animals as we explore how these guys survive in the cold weather of the North Pole.December 22 SNOWFLAKE SAFARIEver wonder where all the animals go in the winter? Some hibernate, but others thrive in the snow. Check out the animals that call the snow and cold home.January 2 SPOT ONExplore the world of spots! Why are they important? Who has them and when? How do they help animals camouflage?January 3 TAIL TALESExplore the world of animal tales, myths and secrets.January 15 BREAK IT DOWNDo you wonder how the Earth recycles? With a little help from its Decomposer Friends, the F.B.I.! Fungus,Bacteria & Invertebrates help the Earth turn “yuck” into nutritious “stuff”.February 19 HOME GROWNAt the Zoo, we focus on our exotic friends…but what about all the native animals right here in our backyard? Check out some of the coolest “Home Grown” animals that live right here in the United States!

Spring Break Camp Preview Dates$150 for 3 days of learing fun; FOTZ save 10% March 12–14; March 20–22; March 26–28 YOU TALKIN’ TO ME?

School’s Out Single Day Camps$50 per child per day; FOTZ save 10% March 15; March 19 JUNGLE FEVERMarch 16; March 23; March 29 NO MAN’S LANDMarch 30BUG BUTTS

Overnight Programs Ages: 6+Come spend the night with us and learn about some awesome animals along the way. All overnights include fun lesson and activities, animal encounter with education animal ambassadors, continental breakfast, and so much more!

POLAR BEAR PJ PARTY OVERNIGHT December 1 | 7pm–8am February 24 | 7pm–8am Cost: $33 per person

PENGUIN POLE-OOZA OVERNIGHT January 5 | 7pm–8am March 2 | 7pm–8am Cost: $40 per person

Keeper for a Day Have you always dreamed of being a Zoo Keeper? Are you curious about what goes on behind the scenes at the Kansas City Zoo? Now’s your chance to discover the Zoo’s “secret” world! This highly interactive day gives participants, ages 7 and up, firsthand experience working in a zoo. Spend the day helping keepers do everything from cleaning exhibits, preparing diets, learning the basics of animal handling and educating visitors about conservation. Available 7 days a week, 8:30am–2:30pm, year around, register online or call 816.595.1765. $150 pre-registration includes T-shirt, nametag, water bottle, & lunch. FOTZ members receive a 10% discount.

When Science Attacks Spring 2018 enrollment now open for When Science Attacks the Kansas City Zoo’s hands-on homeschool classes! Explore the world of science through animals and nature. Join us twice a month for hands-on science for Kindergarten through 8th grade, including fun experiments, demos, videos, and more. Students might tour the Zoo, get a visit from one of our animal ambassadors, or experience other unique Zoo resources. For more information on topics, dates, and costs visit kansascityzoo.org/programs/homeschool. Pre-registration required and may be done online or by calling 816.595.1765..

Most education events require a reservation. To register, please visit kansascityzoo.org/education or call 816.595.1765.

4 www.kansascityzoo.org 13Expeditions — 4th Quarter 2017

ACA certification means the Zoo’s camps have met or exceeded industry standards

of excellence in over 300 categories.

Bolivia Conservation TripThe Kansas City Zoo has already committed its support of the Lake Titicaca Frog conservation project in partnership with the Bolivian Amphibian Initiative (BAI). We have helped to partially fund the salaries of the Lake Titicaca Water Frog husbandry staff at the Natural History Museum located in Cochabamba Bolivia for 2016 and 2017.

This July, Stacia Pieroni, Conservation Manager, and I had the opportunity to travel to Bolivia to learn how the Kansas City Zoo could become more involved with the conservation of the Lake Titicaca ecosystem, including the endangered Lake Titicaca Water Frog. During our travels, we met with the La Paz Zoo, Bolivian Government officials, the founder and director of the Bolivian Amphibian Initiative, and the Coati Community of Isla de La Luna. We also took a short trip to Puno, Peru, to meet with Denver Zoo’s Peruvian staff and government officials that are working on similar initiatives in Peru.

Stacia and I left Kansas City for Bolivia on July 8 and arrived in La Paz, Bolivia, July 9 where we met with BAI founder Arturo Munoz, a group of three international BAI volunteers and Sam Sabin, the son of world conservationist Andrew Sabin (Andrew Sabin Family Foundation/Sabin Amphibian Conservation Award.) While in La Paz, we visited with Andrea Morales, director of the La Paz Zoo, and

several members of her staff to discuss the possibilities of exhibiting the Lake Titicaca Water Frog at their Zoo. Directly following the meeting at the zoo, we went to a meeting with the regional government representative to discuss their plans to support the study and development of conservation projects for the Lake Titicaca ecosystem. After our meeting with the government officials, we traveled to the lake, making a brief stop at the Navy base to tour their scuba diving facilities, and learn more about their current dive training program. After our naval base stop, we headed to Copacabana for the night.

The next morning, we left for Isla de La Luna to learn more about the community-based sanctuary program for the Lake Titicaca Water Frogs and the ecotourism opportunities on the island. When we arrived on the island, the local community greeted us and took us to their homes where we would be staying for the next few nights. We were able to spend some time connecting with the local community and better understand the way of life on the island.

The following day, we set off on a snorkeling and scuba diving experience to see the water frog in its natural habitat. The water was crystal clear and the frogs were abundant. Isla de La Luna is one of the best locations on all of Lake Titicaca to observe the frog in the wild,

By Tim Steinmetz, Senior Curator

12 www.kansascityzoo.org 5Expeditions — 4th Quarter 2017

Zoo Visa

Commerce Bank and the Kansas City Zoo have partnered to provide Zoo fans with an opportunity to support the KCZoo with each purchase they make. When you apply online for a Kansas City Zoo Visa® Credit Card and make your first purchase within 90 days of account opening, Friends of the Zoo will earn $35.00* and you will receive a

ZANY ZOO PACKET containing:

2 Round trip tickets to ride the African Sky Safari

1 Coupon for a FREE child admission with the purchase of two regular adult admissions when paying with your Kansas City Zoo Visa Card.

$5 of Zoo Bucks; valid anywhere in the Zoo

10% Off coupon for a one time shopping spree in the Zoo’s Gift Shop

1 Sumatran Tiger photo with invitation for an Exclusive “Meet the Zoo Keeper” presentation

$5 Off a FOTZ Membership when paying with your Kansas City Zoo Visa Card.

lending itself to be the ideal place for an environmental awareness ecotourism program. Beyond viewing the frogs in their natural habitat and visiting with the local community, we also spent a day visiting the north side of the island where tourists arrive daily to visit the ruins. This particular area is the site of the proposed ecotourism snorkeling activities as well as a visitor welcome center. The welcome center is an existing building near the ruins that the local community has given to BAI to display environmental awareness graphics and serve as a classroom and meeting site.

After two days of meeting with the local community and exploring the island, we

returned to Copacabana were we met up with BAI’s Jaime Salamanca, whom is the main proponent for the ecotourism and community based sanctuary proposal. Both of these plans support the local community and encourage conservation of the Isla de La Luna and the Lake Titicaca ecosystem.

The following day we left for Peru and spent the next three days meeting with Peruvian staff that are supported by the Denver Zoo, Roberto Ibanez and Enrique La Marca. A local NGO coordinator, Jhazel Quispe, and several volunteers working with the water frog also joined us. This portion of our trip was to see, firsthand, the work that was being done with the frog in regards to research, exhibition, captive breeding, community outreach and to learn more about Denver Zoo’s role.

Our second day in Peru, we visited a local community, Perka de Norte, where the Denver Zoo staff routinely conducts frog surveys. The community members formally welcomed us with a lei and welcome speech. After the welcoming ceremony, the majority of the community came down to the lake to help with the survey. During the census, the frogs were weighed, measured, and swabbed for the fungal disease, Chytrid. They also performed multiple water tests from the census site.

On our last day, we met with the local Peruvian government to talk about their education program for the local communities as well as hear about their citizen rangers program. This program plays a large role in getting communities around the lake invested in saving the Lake Titicaca ecosystem.

We met many very passionate people that want to help save this special ecosystem. We also found several ways we could help the Peruvians and Bolivians work together on this issue.

Upon completion of our trip we have found that there are several wonderful and much needed opportunities for the Kansas City Zoo to help support the conservation and preservation of the Lake Titicaca ecosystem and the Lake Titicaca Water Frog.

Are you a current FOTZ member renewing your membership? Yes, ID number?____________________________________ No

Basic Premier TOTAL

Individual Level $39 $89 Non-Zoological District pricing $69 $119

Family Level $59 $139 Non-Zoological District pricing $119 $199

Sustaining Level $99 $219 Non-Zoological District pricing $179 $299

Gorilla Adventurer $500

Elephant Conservationist $1000

Penguin Patron $2500

Additional Contribution to Conservation

Joining before March 31? Save $5! (if yes, deduct $5)

Using your KC Zoo Credit Card? Save $5! (if yes, deduct $5)

TOTAL PAYMENT

Joining FOTZ is easy! Sign up online at kansascityzoo.org, call 816-595-1234 or fill out the form below and return it to: Kansas City Zoo FOTZ Memberships, 6800 Zoo Drive, Kansas City, MO 64132. 2018 Memberships are valid through March 31, 2019.

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Going Green?! Would you like to receive your newsletter via email? Yes No

If you are purchasing a family membership or above, please let us know the number of dependent children or grandchildren under the age of 18:______

Payment: Check (to FOTZ) KC Zoo Credit Card Visa MC Discover AMEX

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If this membership is a gift, please list the gift recipient information to the above with your payment information and your contact information below:

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Tax Deductible—Your donation is tax deductible. Please consult with your professional tax advisor as to the specific deductibility of your gift based on your personal financial situation.

The earlier you purchase, the more FREE visits to the Zoo you can enjoy!

Hurry!Save $5 when you renew today! Renewal discount valid until March 31

Save $10 on Premier Membershipswhen joining or renewing by Dec. 31

Boy and Girl Scout ProgramsAttention all Scout Leaders! Are you looking for something cool to do with your scout group? Book a scout workshop to earn some requirements towards badges, journeys, belts, and pins. You can even take it one step further and turn your workshop into an overnight adventure!

2-Hour Girl Scout WorkshopsCost: $15 per scout; Adults are FREE; FOTZ members receive a 10% discount

Nov 11 10:00am–12:00pm Brownies WOW Journey

Mar 3 10:00am–12:00pm Daisies 3 Cheers for Animals

Mar 3 2:00pm–4:00pm Juniors & Up STEM

Mar 10 10:00am–12:00pm Brownies WOW Journey

Mar 10 2:00pm–4:00pm Juniors Eco Explorer

2-Hour Boy Scout WorkshopsCost: $15 per scout; Adults are FREE; FOTZ members receive a 10% discount

Mar 24 10:00am–12:00pm Tiger Scout Workshop

Mar 24 2:00pm–4:00pm Wolf Scout Workshop

Mar 31 2:00pm–4:00pm Bear Scout Workshop

Mar 31 10:00am–12:00pm Webelo Scout Workshop

3-Hour Workshops for ALL SCOUTSCost: $20 per scout; Adults are FREE; FOTZ members receive a 10% discount

Navigator Geocache This three hour workshop is designed for Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts alike. Play in a worldwide scavenger hunt using multimillion dollar satellites! We’ll discover the basics to geocaching and then go on our own adventure through the zoo. Gain the skills needed to explore with the rest of your troop and discover treasures hidden all over the globe. Call 816.595.1765 to book a private workshop. Minimum of 10 participants.

Scout OvernightsCost: $33–$40 per scout; Adults are FREE; FOTZ members receive a 10% discount

Nov 11–12 7:00pm–8:00am Girl Scouts — Brownies/Juniors

Dec 16–17 7:00pm–8:00am Girl Scouts — Brownies/Juniors

Feb 23–24 7:00pm–8:00am Girl Scouts — Brownies/Juniors

Mar 16–17 7:00pm–8:00am Girl Scouts — Brownies/Juniors

Didn’t see a date that works for your group? Call for private session dates for 20 or more people: 816.595.1765. Minimum of 10 participants required for workshops and a minimum of 20 participants required for overnights.

6 www.kansascityzoo.org 11Expeditions — 4th Quarter 2017

Fire Hose Enrichment and Fun. Oh, My!Enrichment is a vital part of elephants’ lives in captivity, eliciting natural behaviors and challenging their minds daily. But what do you get an animal that can destroy everything and will attempt to eat anything? Well, one group is answering that question by providing high quality, durable enrichment items that also help recycle and are (every zookeeper’s favorite word to hear) free.

Hose2Habitat is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the physical and psychological well-being of animals under human care. This organization is unlike any other, using donations of surplus fire hose and other recyclable materials to repurpose as habitat enrichment. Completely volunteer run, Hose2Habitat

hosts free workshops, programs and services for zoos, sanctuaries, and wildlife rehabilitation centers. They’ve constructed everything from simple braids to rhinos and giraffes made of fire hose.

Lisa Daly and Anthony Slamin are the brains behind the operation along with Lance Stalins. Together, Lisa and Anthony worked as volunteer EMTs for the same firehouse where they witnessed multitudes of fire hose being taken to landfills. Their love of the environment and animals led them to forming Hose2Habitat in July 2014. While all three continue to work their “paying jobs”, they each volunteer their time to workshops, creation of their many fire hose enrichment items, and all the logistics that come with this nonprofit.

I was lucky enough to meet both Lisa and Anthony while attending a workshop at Mesker Park Zoo in Evansville, IN. Need I remind you that this workshop was completely free, and I got to keep my enrichment creations at the end? These two could not have been more fun and knowledgeable, and I can’t forget the help of their volunteers from the Saint Louis Zoo. The workshop was two full days split into morning and afternoon sessions, so those attending could choose which fire hose items they wanted to make. Unfortunately, I could only attend one day, but any time spent at one of these workshops is well worth it. I learned how to strip fire hose, make multiple braided

browsers, and construct an elephant-worthy cube. These items could be used for any species depending on size and use, which is one of the reasons these workshops are so versatile. I met zookeepers from multiple institutions, and we were all there for one purpose; we wanted to create enrichment to enhance the lives of the animals we work with.

Along with hosting these workshops at facilities across the country, one can also access many of their designs on their website. There you will find all the materials, tools, and instructions needed to create these durable forms of enrichment. So grab some recycled fire hose, a drill, some bolts, nuts and washers and get to creating one of the many enrichment options you can find at www.hose2habitat.org or sign up for a workshop near you. I can assure you that your animals will thank you, even though they probably won’t say it.

Kristin Reynolds, Zookeeper – Elephant Team

Birthday PartiesDoes your little one have a Birthday coming up? Do they love animals? Then the Zoo is perfect for YOU! Celebrate your next birthday with us at the Zoo. We have different birthday party packages that offer a hassle-free party for every host and a wild time for every guest. And if you really want to go wild, we offer a number of optional additions that will be sure to make your party a memorable experience. Please book birthday parties at least four weeks in advance. FOTZ members receive 10% discount on party fee. To learn more about party packages and pricing, contact Education at 816.595.1765.

BIRTHDAY BASH OVERNIGHT Want to take your birthday party to the next level and celebrate your birthday by spending the night at the zoo? Our brand new Birthday Bash Overnight package is just for you! Contact Education at 816.595.1765 to learn more and to book your very own birthday party at the zoo.

Zooper SnapshotsKansas City Zoo’s annual photography contest Zooper Snapshots has arrived and we’re excited to see your incredible images. The theme for 2017 is “Eye See You” and we’re looking forward to seeing your images! We want to see the Zoo through your eyes and share your photos with other Zoo guests.

You may submit photos beginning Nov 1, 2017. There are two age categories, adult (18+) and youth (3 through 17). Photographs must have been taken by the photographer between September 1, 2016 and the last day for submission, November 30, 2017. Photographs should feature Kansas City Zoo animals and guests and must be photographed at the Zoo.

Entries may be made in person or by mail. Entries must be eight by ten inches, printed on photographic paper and should not be matted or framed. All submissions become the property of the Kansas City Zoo and may be used for promotional purposes.

On the back of each image please tape a photo contest entry form downloaded from www.KansasCityZoo.org/Zooper-Snapshots. There is no charge for entries and a limit of one photograph per person. Images that do not meet the rules of the contest cannot be eligible to win. The photos will be on display in December at the Zoo.

Winners will be chosen by the Kansas City Zoo Photo Club and staff and will be announced on Saturday, December 2, 2017 on Facebook and our website. Prizes will be awarded in each age category.

10 www.kansascityzoo.org 7Expeditions — 4th Quarter 2017

Lending a Hand Since 1970When asked how long they’ve been volunteering for the Zoo, Linda Smith and her husband Harlan said, “We’ve been around a long time.” How long? 47 years. The couple, Friends of the Zoo members and 1909 Lion’s Pride Society members, married in 1970 and started volunteering at the Zoo shortly after.

“Harlan just had his 80th birthday and I think half of our guest list was Zoo friends,” said Linda. “This is sort of our family. We don’t have any children of our own. We’ve known these people out here for years. We love animals. Period. And this is a good place to see them.”

The couple, who lives just five minutes from Swope Park, has spent the last four decades helping out however they can. From cleaning offices in the Zoo’s Business Operations building to preparing thousands of membership card mailings by hand, the couple has seen a lot of history and change over the years.

In the late 70’s, the couple began acting as the Kansas City Zoo’s historians, collecting and organizing newspaper clippings and magazine articles mentioning the Kansas City Zoo. “My degree is in history so I love doing this. Harlan is sort of my assistant,” Linda said laughing. Today the Zoo’s archives are kept in the Education Department but if you need a memory, Linda and Harlan are guaranteed to share one with you.

Harlan said one of his favorite memories is campaigning for the Zoological Tax District, passed by Jackson and Clay County voters in 2011. “We walked the streets. We went from house to house to house to house to house delivering campaign materials. That’s the best thing that’s ever happened to the Zoo,” added Linda.

And the most rewarding part of volunteering at the Zoo for Linda and Harlan? “The friendships,” said Linda. The couple nodded in agreement as they reflected on some of their best friendships at the Zoo.

“Casey and Penney. We’re very fond of them,” said Linda, when remembering two of the Kansas City Zoo’s most beloved animals. Casey, the largest bull elephant in North America, died of old age in 2003 and Penney, who was first brought to Kansas City in the hopes of breeding with Casey, was euthanized in 2012. “We loved them both,” Linda said while holding back tears.

Thanks to contributions of time, talents and treasures from donors such as Linda and Harlan, the Kansas City Zoo is able to continue to fulfill its mission of connecting people to each other and the natural world to promote understanding, appreciation, and conservation.

“We are people who believe in giving back. When we retired, we said it was time for us to give back. We’ve had a good life,” said Linda.

By including the Zoo in their estate plans, 1909 Lion’s Pride Society members assure the Zoo’s vitality for future generations. We invite you to join the Smiths and all Society members in this important, meaningful community investment.

Linda and Harlan are helping to ensure the future of the Kansas City Zoo with a gift in their estate plans. The couple said many of their friends mistook their license plate, which reads “FOTZ” for an abbreviation of Friends of the Zoo, as their last name.

For more information on how you can include the Zoo in your charitable donation plans, call June Anne Chalfant Director of Development 816.595.1214.

Please submit photos to:

PHOTO CONTESTKANSAS CITY ZOO6800 ZOO DRIVEKANSAS CITY, MO 64132

For additional information please contact: Josh Hollingsworth, Membership and Marketing Manager (816) 595.1205.

Zambia Conservation TripElephant Team Lead, Katie Muninger, recently traveled to Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia to work with Conservation Lower Zambezi (CLZ) as well as the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW.) In partnership with International Elephant Foundation (IEF), we sent Katie over with 16 trail cameras, 32 memory cards, 25 packs of rechargeable batteries and 2 battery chargers!

Katie spent time out in the field setting up cameras and reviewing footage. The data being collected from these trail cams will be used to better understand and track wildlife activity in the area.

While working with CLZ and DNPW, Katie also had the privilege to participate in the release of a highly endangered pangolin! In addition to the trail camera project, the Kansas City Zoo also supports one Luangwa patrol team (rations, salaries, medical equipment, movements, fuel etc.) Each Luangwa team, consisting of 5-6 Wildlife Police Officers, goes on patrol on average for 15 days in the park. Each team is stationed at an operating base where they are supplied with rations and patrol equipment.

CharlieSPECIES: African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus)

AGE: 20’s (came to KC Zoo in 1999)FAVORITE FOOD: GrapesPERSONALITY: Shy until she gets to know you!BEHAVIOR DISPLAYED IN WOW:

Preshow behavior—vine crawl

MojaveSPECIES: Greater Roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus)

AGE: 3 FAVORITE FOOD: MealwormsPERSONALITY: Always on the go!BEHAVIOR DISPLAYED IN WOW:

Jumps to stumps/rock, runs across rail (“rail runner”)

FiestaSPECIES: Ruby Macaw (Ara macao)

AGE: 3 (born at KC Zoo along with her two sisters)FAVORITE FOOD: Fruit and VeggiesPERSONALITY: Loud!BEHAVIOR DISPLAYED IN WOW:

Climbs then flies over audience. Preshow—vine crawl into window

AkechetaSPECIES: Red Tail HawkAGE: 5FAVORITE FOOD: RatPERSONALITY: Strong and independent BEHAVIOR DISPLAYED IN WOW:

Flies over audience from tree to tree stump and dives down to window exit!

BluebirdSPECIES: Hyacinth Macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus)

AGE: 17FAVORITE FOOD: Sunflower SeedsPERSONALITY: Goofy and talkativeBEHAVIOR DISPLAYED IN WOW:

Preshow behavior— climbs/walks across roof. Moneybox (will take dollar bill donations from guests and place into conservation box).

SedonaSPECIES: Harris HawkAGE: 9FAVORITE FOOD: Rabbit PERSONALITY: Sweetheart and a trainer favorite!BEHAVIOR DISPLAYED IN WOW:

Flies from stage to trainer at top of audience (vertical flights)

Stars of the

BIRD SHOW