N e w s l e t t e r J u l y 2 0 1 4Wild Times

Hello Everyone!

Lisa Tate, Executive Director

Director’s Note

Summer HoursEveryday 10:00am - 7:00pm

Red River Zoological

Society Board of Directors

PresidentKrista Andrews

Vice PresidentBrad Dahl

TreasurerBrenda Podetz

SecretaryMike Montgomery

DirectorsChris Alberty Carolyn Boutain Laura Carley Steven Dewald Duane Durr Karen Kelner Marshall McCulloughBetty Opheim Regan RohlBarry SchucardCraig Stockwell

Front Cover: Bactrian Camel

Photo by Josh More

Thursday, September 4, 2014 6pm-10pm

Hello Everyone!

It’s finally Summer in Fargo and the Zoo is a great place to spend it!

In this issue of Wild Times you will learn about activities and classes for kids with our Junior Zookeeper Leadership Program, as well as adult activities such as our ZOOlebration! Celebration.

You will also learn about an exciting project on our horizon- a new Children’s Zoo Farm and Nature Playground! We are still in the fund raising stage of this project and can use your help.

Signature sponsorships are still available to help make this wonderful new area a reality. If you, or someone you know would be interested in helping bring this great new learning based farm to our community, please give me a call. I’d love to meet with you!

Enjoy your latest issue of Wild Times and we look forward to seeing you at Member’s Appreciation Night!

Lisa

Director’s Note

ZOOlebration!Thursday, September 4, 2014

6pm-10pm

Join honorary hosts, Cris Linnares & Bill Marcil Jr for a lovely evening under the stars!

Tickets $50www.redriverzoo.org

Coming Soon: The BaviaryThe Red River Zoo and NDSU’s Department of Biological Sciences have partnered together to create the new Baviary. The Baviary will be a new research facility focusing on birds, bats, and other small mammals located at your Red River Zoo.“The Red River Zoo and the department of biological sciences have a similar commitment to conservation and ecology of regional species, which makes for a great partnership,” said Wendy Reed, associate professor and head of biological sciences in an online NDSU newsletter. The Baviary is the perfect place to conduct long term behavior research on songbirds and bats. Although the majority of the Baviary will be a research center, it will include signage educating Zoo goers about the research and why it is important for conservation. The public will also learn more about the Baviary and the research conducted there through Zoo outreach programs. If you have been to the Red River Zoo you might have noticed the green structure going up between the Fox exhibit and the Grey Wolf exhibit. Construction started in early spring and the Baviary’s estimated time of completion is August. This $90,000 project is funded by NDSU and private donations. For more information about the Baviary please go to www.redriverzoo.org.

Bradley wants to know:“Do goats really eat everything like on cartoons?”

Goats are browsers. This means their natural diet consists of leaves, twigs, and bark. Grazers (like sheep) eat mostly grass. There are multiple reasons why goats may be portrayed as eating everything:

Labels on tin cans used to be glued on with flour based glues. which appeal to goats and the paper labels themselves are made of trees which is what goats naturally eat. Other products made out of trees like cardboard and lumber are also similar enough to their natural diet that goats will sometimes chew on them.

Goats like vegetables as a treat and can be clever about getting at food. They don’t have hands like we do so they have to use their mouths to manipulate objects. Maybe people saw goats licking leftovers out of cans and thought that the goats were eating the metal?

Here at the zoo the goats get a special formulated grain, hay and treats. Tree branches [called 'Browse' in the zoo world] are one of their favorite treats. They spend a lot of time eating the leaves, twigs and bark. An important part of a zookeeper's job is knowing which trees are safe for goats to eat. If you come visit the goats at Red River Zoo, we have a special grain available in quarter machines so that you can feed them while you're here.

-Erin Teravskis, Zookeeper

Tyler, Asks:“Why can’t the eagles have a bigger space so they can fly?”

Both of our eagles are unable to fly. Our bald eagle is missing part of his left wing and our golden eagle does not have enough power to fly very far off of the ground. So because of their mobility issues, a larger exhibit for flight is not needed. As long as we provide them with a variety of perching structures at appropriate heights, they are comfortable in their zoo home.

-Nicole Lee, Zookeeper

Ask The Zookeeper!

Meet Dr. Tom Doctor Tom Colville has his dream job.

He is the attending veterinarian at the Red River Zoo. “I do my best to keep our animals healthy. That includes preventive procedures like administering vaccinations, examining animals that are ill or injured, treating the animals the best we can with what’s available to us, and keeping records on what we do medically so we can learn from past events,” says Dr. Tom, as the staff calls him.

Dr. Tom has always loved working with all kinds of animals. He started his veterinary career working in private practices in Louisiana and Virginia. While practicing in Virginia, he volunteered at the National Zoo. “It was great fun for me. I got to work with a variety of animals at the zoo. And I would always welcome different species of animals in my practice, not just dogs and cats.” He dreamed of someday having a job like Marlin Perkins’ from Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom. Marlin and his assistant would go around the world and work with exotic animals in exotic places. Since Dr. Tom couldn’t do that, working at the Red River Zoo has become the next best thing. Animals from around the world have come to him.

After working in private practice for five years, he and his wife, Dr. Joann Colville, moved to North Dakota and started the Veterinary Technology program at North Dakota State University (NDSU). As a veterinarian, solving the mystery of what was wrong with an animal and teaching owners how to care for their pets were two of his favorite things. Teaching at the University was a way to mesh solving mysteries and teaching into one profession. Since it was a clinical program, he was able to remain hands-on with the animals. He worked at NDSU for more than 30 years before retiring in early 2011.

Meet Dr. Tom Dr. Tom got involved with the Zoo while he was at NDSU. The Veterinary Technology program established a close professional relationship with the Zoo through veterinary technologist Amy Ellwein, who was a charter member of the zoo, and a fellow teacher in the program. Dr. Tom helped with many different Zoo medical procedures, like neutering the wolves, as a way to give his students real-life zoo animal experience. After he retired from NDSU he continued his relationship with the Zoo on an as-needed basis.

During an accreditation visit, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) thought it would be advisable for the Zoo to have a staff veterinarian. Dr. Tom had been retired for a few months when he accepted the position as the Red River Zoo attending veterinarian under one condition: he would do it as a volunteer.

“I have the coolest job at the zoo because I get to work with all the animals. Keepers get to work with certain groups of animals. I get to work with all the animals at the zoo. That’s my bliss,” says Dr. Tom. He strives to create a relationship with the animals, so when it comes time for a medical procedure, they feel more comfortable with him around and not frightened of a stranger.

Another important part of his job is working with the Zookeepers in training the animals. Training is important for animal enrichment. It stimulates the animals’ minds to help keep them happy and healthy. It is also important when it comes to medical procedures. Through training, a large animal, for example a camel, is taught to position itself correctly so its vaccinations can be administered with little or no stress to the animal and a safe environment for the personnel involved in the procedure.

Dr. Tom encourages young people interested in veterinary medicine and zoology to get experience anyway they can. Job shadow, intern, volunteer, and do whatever it takes to get involved. For younger people, Dr. Tom thinks very highly of the Red River Zoo’s camps and Junior Zookeeper program. “I think our Junior Zookeeper programs and our camps are great for kids to try things out,” says Dr. Tom. He believes children who are involved in zoo camps will have a bigger appreciation for Zoos and conservation, and nature in general.

The Red River Zoo would like to give a special Thank You to Prairie Winds Veterinary Center and Casselton Veterinary Service for their

support of the Red River Zoo Animal Collection!

Be A Junior ZookeeperThe Junior Zookeeper Leadership Program allows children aged 11 to 17 a wonderful opportunity to learn about a variety of animals at the Zoo, learn responsibility and leadership skills, and to share their knowledge with the public.

We have expanded our program to provide even more opportunities for teens to broaden their experiences. The program is three-tiered, divided up according to years of experience at the zoo and individual abilities.

The Junior Zookeeper Leadership Program has proven to be a great way for kids to learn responsibility, build leadership and time management skills, gain self confidence, and get some quality time observing and learning about wildlife.

Spots are still available for July, August, September and October Sessions!

For more information go to www.redriverzoo.org or call 701.277.9240

MEMBERS APPRECIATION

NIGHT

AUGUST 26TH6:00 to 8:00 pm

To RSVP Email: thezoo@redriverzoo.org

Free Picn

ic

Dinner!

Special Animal Encounters!

Prizes!

Fun!

Creature Feature:

Bactrian Camels are incredible animals that are known to adapt and survive in many different kinds of harsh environments. Natively they can be found in Northern Asia, specifically in the Gobi Desert of Mongolia. Much like Fargo, the Gobi Desert has hot summers and freezing winters. They have to be able to adapt to such temperatures to be able to survive. They adapt in many different ways. When winter is near they grow a thick shaggy coat to protect them from the extreme cold. They have an additional set of eyelashes to protect their eyes from blowing sand and snow in the desert. Did you know that camels have special noses? Extra capillaries (special blood vessels) allow their nostrils to heat air as they inhale. This prevents the air from freezing inside their lungs. Camels are some of the few mammals that can drink salty water and eat salty plants. Camels are used to transport goods across the desert. Unlike other animals with hoofs, all the heavy weight rests on their sole-pads and not their hooves. When they walk only the fronts of their hoofs touch the ground. Maybe this is why scientists say they are the most adaptable!

Unlike their dromedary camel relatives, Bactrian camels have two humps compared to one. Camels are known for their humps. Contrary to most people’s beliefs, camel’s humps store fat not water. The stored fat is transferred into energy when food is scarce. It is interesting how they consume water. They can go several weeks without drinking water. When they do become thirsty and water becomes available, they drink a lot. They can drink up to 30 gallons of water in less than ten minutes.

Camels are diurnal creatures just like humans. This means they sleep at night and search for food and are active during the day. They like to eat a variety of shrubs, grass, thorns, and dry vegetation. They are very large animals. The average camel is over seven feet tall at the hump and they can weigh more than 1,800 pounds. They live in flocks or herds from 6 to 20 related camels with a strong male that acts as their leader.

Bactrian camels are critically endangered. Their habitats are disappearing due to human interaction because of mining, industrial development, and farming. Angry farmers often hunt camels in fear they will over-graze and

take up their livestock’s food source even when the camels are legally protected. Female camels are mature enough to become mothers between the ages of three and four. After a 13 month pregnancy, they give birth to one calf. This spring, the Red River Zoo’s camel gave birth to a healthy baby girl! Zoo goers participated in a two-week long voting contest. Her new name is Narantuya, or Tuya for short. Her name means “Sunbeam” in Mongolian. This name fits her perfectly because she was born on a sunny day in April, after a very long and cold winter. Come check out Tuya and her parents at YOUR Red River Zoo! Their exhibit is located next to the carousel pavilion.

New Children’s Zoo Farm

The Children’s Zoo Farm was one of the first exhibits featured at the Red River Zoo and is one of the highlights for children visiting the park. With the growth and revitalization of the Red River Zoo, it is also time to renovate our Children’s Zoo Farm into a premier fun-based learning area.

The former Children’s Zoo had a farm theme and focused on domestic animals. Designing a new Children’s Zoo Farm will allow the staff to pursue an approach that more closely aligned with the Red River Zoo’s mission by encouraging creativity and innovation, collaborating with community partners, practicing wise use of resources and valuing our visitors...all while making a real social impact.

New Children’s Zoo Farm

Help Us Bring This To Fargo

Nature Playground

Did you ever wonder what the world is like from an animal's point of view?

Sit in a hawk’s nest or scurry down a rabbit hole! In a playground unlike any in the Fargo area, kids (and parents too!) can wiggle like a worm across huge maple leaves or dig for fossils in the huge sand pit.

In the center of all these activity areas is a seating area with tables for picnicking or projects; benches also are built into the hillside - great for parents or teachers to rest while the children play.

Beautiful landscaping with native plants and easy-to-walk-on paths is all part of Nature’s Playground. A signature feature in the exhibit is a willow archway and structure which allows children opportunities for play. Rain gardens and a bio swale handle runoff water and grow native plants.

Signature Sponsorship Available!Contact Us To Help Bring This Amazing New Space To Fargo!

701-277-9240 x 301

The Red River Zoo Turns 15 Years Old!

In 15 short years, the Red River Zoo has transformed into a living museum that is loved by many. The Red River Zoological Society was formed in 1993 after planning and dreaming of a wildlife park by enthusiasts around our community. With a 100-year-lease from the Fargo Park District, construction started in 1996 after many private and cooperate donations were received.

The Red River Zoo is now located on 33 acres of what used to be the George Anderson Family’s Red River Ranch. Before renovations, the site consisted of only seven trees and a few farm buildings. Several buildings were modified to fit the needs of the new zoo.

The Red River Zoo opened with a few exhibits in 1999. Today, the Red River Zoo is home to more than 89 species and 600 specimens.

The Award Winning Red River Zoo receives national and international recognition as a leading breeder for some of the world’s rarest cold climate species. Our Zoo is an active participant in several Species Survival Plans,

including: Chinese Red Pandas, Sichuan Takins, White Naped Cranes, White Face Sakis and North American Porcupines. Over one-quarter of the Chinese Red Pandas in North American Zoos were born at our Zoo! Our Zoo has strived to fulfill our mission of advancing public education on the need for wildlife conservation and preservation. We connect people with nature!

Having a Zoo in our community was just a dream until a few dedicated individuals who saw the Zoo’s vision stepped forward and made the Red River Zoo happen. Now, your Zoo has transformed into a true gem in our community and has become a leading tourism destination in the Fargo/Moorhead area.

The Zoo will be celebrating its 15th birthday this year. Stay connected to receive updates on how you can celebrate! The Zoo exists because dedicated conservationists worked together to create a Zoo that would influence the entire community 15 years ago. If you would like to get involved to help us with our mission, there is always a need for dedicated volunteers!

If you would like to volunteer please call 701.277.9240 ext. 310 or email volunteer@redriverzoo.org. If you would like to make a donation, please call 701.277.9240 ext. 301. The Zoo is open every day from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm now until the end of October. Come stop by and wish the Zoo a happy birthday!

Early Construction Photos

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Red River Zoo Photo Contest

Do you share a passion for the Red River Zoo and Photography? Share your photos with us and enter them into the Red River Zoo Photo Contest for a chance to see your portraits displayed in the 2015 calendar. The first

place winner will have their work displayed on the calendar’s cover and will receive a FREE Household membership.

All photographs must be of Red River Zoo animals. To enter your work, please go to www.flickr.com/groups/redriverzoophotocontest2014/.

Photographs must be entered before October 1st 2014.

For more information email membership@redriverzoo.org or Call 701.277.9240 ext. 305