Nov. 18, 2004

NEW BABY GIRAFFE SPOTTED AT DENVER ZOO

A tall order was delivered at Denver Zoo with the birth of a six-foot male giraffe, named Dash. The reticulated giraffe calf was born Sunday, Nov. 14 at 7:30 a.m. Dash and his mother Masika (Maw-see-kaw) have been spending quiet-time in the Giraffe House since his birth. The new calf will make his media debut on Nov. 18 at 10:30 a.m. Weather permitting, it is anticipated that Dash will have access to his outdoor exhibit.

Dash is the third calf born to Masika and Dikembe (Dah-kem-bay), the zoo's male bull giraffe. Dash, who weighs 170 pounds, was much anticipated by zoo staff. Giraffe's are born after a 15-month gestation period. The calf will nurse on his mother's milk for approximately 15 months, at which time he will be weaned. During the first two years of a giraffe's life, it doubles its height to be almost 12-feet tall. Giraffes are the world's tallest land mammal and can grow up to 17 feet tall. Like human fingerprints, the markings of a giraffe's coat are unique to each individual. Denver Zoo is now home to a herd of four giraffes, Janie (f), Masika (f), Dikembe (m) and Dash (m).

Nov. 17, 2004

DENVER ZOO CELEBRATES RARE BIRTH OF COLOBUS MONKEY

Denver Zoo's newest resident, a newborn colobus monkey (Colobus guereza kikuyuensis) is all-white and can be seen being held by his mother, providing a rare and striking visual; although infants are born white, adults are mostly black with a white face border and white veiling flanks and a bushy white tail.

The monkey was born to mother, Sadie, and father, Ray, on Oct. 24 and is the first of this species to be born at Denver Zoo since 1997. Weather permitting, the infant can be seen with the rest of its troop in Primate Panorama at Denver Zoo. The newborn's mother often allows the other females in the troop to hold the infant. This arboreal species has no problem moving about the trees with the infant in tow.

The name colobus is from the Greek word meaning "mutilated one" because of the animal's lack of thumbs. Colobus are part of the Old World monkey sub-family Colobinae, which is characterized by their lack of thumbs and cheek pouches, specialized, multi-chambered stomachs that ferment fibrous leaves, and a very long tail. In the wild, colobus can be found in central Africa.

Oct. 27, 2004

DENVER ZOO'S HOG SOUNDER BECOMES ONE OF THE LARGEST IN NORTH AMERICA WITH BIRTH OF THREE LITTLE PIGS

Denver Zoo has become one of the largest exhibitors in North America of Red river hogs, with the birth of three piglets on Oct. 18. Two males and one female were born to Rosie and Rambo. The youngsters have not yet been named.

This is Rosie's fifth litter. Weather permitting, the three little pigs can be seen in the Shamba area of Primate Panorama with their parents and their oldest sisters Fire and Cracker who were born on the fourth of July in 2003 and older siblings Roux (Roo), Renny (Ren-ee) and Raina (Rain-uh) who were born on March 15, 2004.

Red river hogs are often called the "world's prettiest pig" because of their strikingly red coloration, distinctive ear tassels and unusual facial markings. At birth, Red river hogs, native to central Africa in the Congo basin, weigh approximately two pounds each and measure approximately 10 inches in length. The animals will be fully grown in two years and will weigh between 100-250 pounds. Piglets are very playful and engage in activities such as chasing their own tail and each other.

Weather permitting, the piglets will be on exhibit during Denver Zoo's 20th annual "Boo at the Zoo," a safe, child-friendly Halloween celebration. This year's "Boo at the Zoo" will take place Saturday, Oct. 30 and Sunday, Oct. 31 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Regular admission prices apply.

October 2004

DENVER ZOO'S NEW LION CUBS ON PUBLIC EXHIBIT

Denver Zoo's three African lion cubs (Panthera leo) can now be seen by the public in the maternity area of Predator Ridge called "Pahalli Ya Mwana," (Swahili for place of the young). The public can now see the seven-week-old cubs being cared for by their mother, Tawny, and two lionesses from their pride, Baby and Natal.

The cubs were born on Sept. 2 and are the first born at Denver Zoo since 1975. The male cub was named Kamau (Kah-mauw), a Swahili word for "quiet warrior" and the female cubs were named Saba (Sah-bah), Arabic for "morning" and Sukari (Sue-car-ee), Swahili for "sugar." The cubs are the first born to lioness Tawny (Tahwn-ee, age 6) and male Krueger (Crew-ger; age 6) a pair that came to the Denver Zoo from Columbus Zoo as part of the American Zoo and Aquarium Association's (AZA) Lion Species Survival Plan (SSP). The cubs are highly valued in North America for their genetic uniqueness because they are not related to any other lions in North America.

Sept. 27, 2004

AMERICAN ZOO & AQUARIUM ASSOCIATION HONORS DENVER ZOO'S CLAYTON F. FREIHEIT WITH R. MARLIN PERKINS AWARD

Association's Highest Individual Honor

The American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA) honored Clayton F. Freiheit, President & CEO of Denver Zoo with the R. Marlin Perkins Award for Professional Excellence. The AZA established the R. Marlin Perkins Award for Professional Excellence to honor those outstanding zoo and aquarium professionals who have given many years of support to AZA and who are strongly committed to education, conservation, science and recreation. It is the Association's highest individual honor and is not given every year. The R. Marlin Perkins Award was bestowed upon Mr. Freiheit during the AZA's 80th Annual Conference, which met in New Orleans, Louisiana last week.

Clayton Freiheit was born and educated in Buffalo, New York. While attending the University of Buffalo, he worked as an animal caretaker at the Buffalo Museum of Science and was also employed in its Education and Exhibit Preparation Departments. In May of 1960, he was appointed Curator of the Buffalo Zoological Gardens. In order to get this job, Freiheit called upon Marlin Perkins, then Director of Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, whom he had only met a few times, and was able to persuade Marlin to recommend Clayton for the Buffalo Zoo job. At that time, he was still in his senior year in college and only 22-years-old. He may still hold the record as the youngest-ever head of an AZA institution, as the title "Curator" then was the same as Director. Under his stewardship, the collection and exhibits of the Buffalo Zoo nearly doubled and the zoo achieved national stature.

On October 1, 1970, Freiheit was appointed Director of the Denver Zoo, and since September 1998 has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Denver Zoological Foundation which manages the zoo under a cooperative agreement with the City and County of Denver.

Twenty years later to the day, October 1, 1990, then Mayor of Denver, Federico Pena, proclaimed that October 1, 1990, would be known forever more as "Clayton Freiheit Day" in Denver. In October of 2004, Freiheit will celebrate his 35th year as head of the Denver Zoo and as President & Chief Executive Officer of the Denver Zoological Foundation, Inc., the not-for-profit corporation which actually operates, manages, directs and controls the Denver Zoo under contract with the City and County of Denver. It is interesting to note that, in his more than 45 years of employment in the zoo world, Clayton Freiheit has never held a zoo job other than as a director of a zoological institution.

Clayton Freiheit also served as a Member of the Board of Directors of the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA) from 1962-1965 and was elected as this organization's President 1967-1968. In 1969, Clayton Freiheit was elected to membership in the prestigious International Union of Directors of Zoological Gardens (IUDZG), now the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) headquartered in Bern, Switzerland. He was re-elected as a member of the AZA's Board of Directors 1986 to 1989 and re-elected to AZA Board membership for a three-year term in 1998-2000. Freiheit became a member of AZA's Accreditation Commission in September 1991 and was appointed to serve as its Chairman for 1996-1997. He is currently an advisor to AZA's Accreditation Commission and also serves as a member of AZA's Editorial Board and its Constitution & Bylaws Committee and as a member of the Steering Committee of the Conservation Breeding Specialist Group (CBSG) and of the World Conservation Union's Species Survival Commission.

In 1996, Clayton Freiheit was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree by the University of Denver, Colorado.

Sept. 9, 2004

LION CUB CAM GIVES ZOO VISITORS VIEW OF NEWBORNS

See Three African Lion Cubs Thriving Under Mom's Care!

Denver Zoo visitors can now watch newborn lion cubs through a live camera feed on plasma television screens in the Predator Ridge interpretive center. The camera provides an intimate look at the mother lioness caring for her three cubs in a private maternity den inside Predator Ridge, while ensuring the new family's privacy during this critical bonding period.

The three African lion cubs (Panthera leo) born Sept. 2, are the first born at Denver Zoo since 1975. The cubs, thriving under their mother's care, have opened their eyes and are toddling inside their maternity box.

The cubs, whose genders are not yet known, were born to Tawny (Tahwn-ee; female, age 6) and Krueger (Crew-ger; male, age 6). They are the first cubs born to this new breeding pair that came to the Denver Zoo from Columbus Zoo as part of the American Zoo and Aquarium Association's (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP). The cubs are highly valued in North America for their genetic diversity.

Lion cubs are born with their eyes closed and have spotted coats. For the first two months, they drink only their mother's milk. A lioness has cubs approximately every two years.

Download a fun lion cub wallpaper  for you computer!

Aug. 31, 2004

ZOO'S FIRST BABY BLUE DUIKER ON EXHIBIT

For the first time, Denver Zoo celebrates the birth of a baby blue duiker (Cephalophus monticola), one of the smallest antelope species in the world. Born on Aug. 15, the young female weighed only 1.44 pounds at birth, but is growing strong under the watchful eye of her mother. There are only 44 blue duikers at accredited zoos in North America.

Blue duikers have a bluish tint on their mostly brown backs with white under parts and underside of tail. Both males and females grow small horns as adults. Adults weigh eight to 11 pounds, with females growing slightly larger than males.

Denver Zoo's new female duiker was born during the Olympic Games and after being discovered by zookeepers working the night shift, was aptly named Selina (Suh-lee-nah) after the Greek goddess of the moon. Born to a pair of blue duikers on loan from San Diego, Selina is an important birth to the genetic stability of this rare animal in North American zoos. Selina's seven-year-old father is unrelated to other duikers in North America, making him the most important male for genetic stability. Selina's two-year-old mother is the sixth most genetically diverse blue duiker in North America.

Duikers can be found to the west of Nigeria in rainforests and other wooded areas. Habitat encroachment, logging, poaching and dogs have affected the population of this animal in the wild.

Aug. 18, 2004

BIG BIRD MAKES NEW HOME IN DENVER ZOO
The Kori Bustard, One of Africa's Heaviest Birds, on Display for 1st Time in 20 Years

Weighing up to 41 pounds the Kori bustard (Ardeotis kori) is one the heaviest birds in the world and is Denver Zoo's newest species on exhibit. An interesting site, the Kori bustards are living large, side-by-side with their smaller roommates the steenboks, a 35-pound African species of antelope. In the wild, Kori bustards are the second largest species that still have the ability to fly, only surpassed by their even-heavier cousins the great bustards.

Two male Kori bustards moved to Denver Zoo as a donation from the National Zoo in Washington, D.C. Tano (Tan-oh) celebrated his fist birthday on August 17 and Uche (You-She) turned one on July 1.

Native to the grasslands of eastern and southern Africa, Kori bustards can be found in arid savanna areas where trees are usually scattered. These birds are not known to migrate as much as other birds, only when needed during scarcity of food.

The Kori bustard is an omnivore, eating both plants and animals. Another important habit of Kori bustards is that they drink using a sucking motion, unlike other birds that scoop up the water with their bills.

Visitors can now see Kori bustards on display at Denver Zoo. This species has not been on display at Denver Zoo for more than 20 years.

July 22, 2004

HYENAS MAKE MEDIA DEBUT IN PREDATOR RIDGE EXHIBIT

Three new spotted hyenas (Crocuta crocuta) will make their media debut on July 22 at 8:45 a.m. Zookeepers have gradually been introducing the hyenas to their new environment and most visitors have not yet seen them. The spotted hyena is the largest of the four hyena species and can grow up to four feet tall and weigh up to 250 pounds. These hyenas have longer forelegs than hind legs and feature sandy brown spotted coats. These animals came to Denver Zoo as a donation from Berkley University and have been sharing the use of their new exhibit in Predator Ridge with African Wild dogs on a rotational basis.

These new predators Thika, (Thee-kah) Kibo (Key-bow) and Mtoto (mah-toh-toh) are five years old. Kibo and Thika are brothers and Mtoto is a female unrelated to the males. As the sole female, Mtoto is the most dominant animal in the pack.

Like the other animals in Predator Ridge, spotted hyenas are native to Africa. Hyenas are mostly found south of the Sahara Desert, excluding the southern tip of Africa and the Congo Basin. Spotted hyenas scavenge carcasses or kill prey in packs. These packs can bring down large prey like zebras and can force lions to abandon a kill. A single hyena is capable of chasing and killing prey three times its own weight. The spotted hyena has very powerful jaws that can crunch large bones.

June 30, 2004

AFTER 20 YEARS, CHEETAHS RETURN TO DENVER ZOO
Sibling Cheetahs Move Into Habitat

Two cheetahs, a new species to Denver Zoo, made their public debut on June 30. This is the first time in 20 years Denver Zoo has had these beautiful spotted cats on exhibit. With only an estimated 20-thousand cheetahs existing in sub-Saharan Africa and Iran, the new additions will give Zoo visitors a chance to see and learn about this endangered species.

Denver Zoo's male cheetah is named Barafu (Bah-rah-foo) and his sister is named Kibara (Kih-Bar-uh). The cheetahs come to Denver Zoo from Oak Hills Breeding Center in Okalahoma City. Barafu shares the name of rocky outcropping in Tanzania's Serengeti National Park, a native area to the cheetah and Kibara is Swahili for spring. The nine-month-old siblings weigh about 60 pounds. When full-grown, cheetahs weigh about 100 pounds.

The cheetah has a beautiful spotted coat and is the fastest of all land mammals sprinting over 60 miles per hour. The cheetah uses its long tale like a rudder to help navigate at high speeds. The animal is no match for guns, however, and was long hunted for its fur before gaining protection.

June 24, 2004

Infant Gorilla To Move To Albuquerque Biological Park on Monday
Last Chance to See Tulivu at Denver Zoo, In Nursery until 6 p.m. on June 27

The young Western lowland gorilla who was born at Denver Zoo on May 2, Tulivu (Too-lee-voo), will be moving to a new home at the Albuquerque Biological Park in Albuquerque, New Mexico on June 28. Visitors can see Tulivu in Denver Zoo's Nursery until closing on Sunday, June 27.

The decision for Tulivu to relocate to the Albuquerque Biological Park is the result of a pre-existing breeding loan agreement between Albuquerque Biological Park and Los Angeles Zoo. Albuquerque Biological Park is currently home to seven gorillas.

Visitors can still see a baby Western lowland gorilla at Denver Zoo, however. Jabali (Juh-bahl-ee), a baby gorilla born on May 29, is a Denver Zoo resident being raised by his mother in Primate Panorama where they are on exhibit with the rest of their troop. Visitors will be able to watch the many stages of this young male's development.

June 24, 2004

FREEDOM THE GIANT ANTEATER, SNOUTS OUT NEW DENVER ZOO DIGS

Denver Zoo's new resident, Freedom the giant anteater will make his media debut June 24 at 9 a.m. with an early birthday present from zookeepers - a special culinary treat! The giant anteater is an unusual new species to Denver Zoo. Freedom has a long snout and long plumed tail. The 77-pound male is acclimating well to his new habitat in Primate Panorama where he lives in harmony with the spider monkeys.

Denver Zoo visitors may want to stop by the anteater's habitat on Saturday, June 26 to sing happy birthday to Freedom on his first birthday. The anteater comes to Denver Zoo from Caldwell Zoo in Tyler, Texas. The giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) is native to Central and South America and is a new species to the Zoo. About the giant anteater:

• Sense of smell is 40 times more powerful than man's
• Giant anteaters are toothless and use their long snouts to detect their favorite meal, ants
• Long claws enable the anteater to claw into ant nests
• A long sticky tongue is used to catch ants - the tongue is covered with tiny spines and can be pushed two feet out of the mouth
• Giant anteaters weigh anywhere from 44 - 90 pounds
• The body temperature of the giant anteater is only 89 - 95 degrees, which enables it to survive on the low caloric content of its food
• Life span up to 26 years in captivity

June 22, 2004

MAYOR, ZOO OFFICIALS AND SUPPORTERS CELEBRATE
GRAND OPENING OF PREDATOR RIDGE
Predator Ridge Opens to Public on June 22, 2004

Denver Zoo officials and supporters, and Mayor John Hickenlooper celebrated the grand opening of the Zoo's new exhibit, Predator Ridge, and new main entrance complex June 22nd with a formal program. Denver Zoo President/CEO Clayton Freiheit, Denver Zoological Foundation Chairman John C. North III, Mayor John Hickenlooper, Denver City Council President Elbra Wedgeworth and Janus Captial Group Chief Financial Officer Loren Starr spoke during a brief program before cutting the ribbon and officially opening the new exhibit to visitors.

Following the ribbon cutting ceremony, African lions and African wild dogs were released into their new habitats in Predator Ridge, while hundreds of visitors and supporters watch from just a few feet away. Surrounded by rock outcroppings and landscaped areas designed to mimic the Samburu National Reserve in Kenya, visitors were greeted by spectacular views of lions, African wild dogs, hyenas and multiple species habitats in the new exhibit.

"We are extremely proud of Predator Ridge and our new main entrance," says Denver Zoo President and CEO Clayton Freiheit. "We are fortunate to have such a supportive community. Without their help, this project would not have been possible. It's their continued commitment to the Zoo that has helped us provide much more spacious habitats for our animals and an enhanced viewing and learning experience for our visitors."

In 1999, voters approved a bond initiative for $62.5 million dollars to support the Zoo's Millennium Master Plan which envisions $125 million in long-term improvements. The Denver Zoological Foundation matched $13.75 million in bond money, with privately raised dollars, including a $7 million donation from the Janus Foundation, to fund the total cost of $27.5 million, for the project. The Janus Foundation's $7 million dollar donation is the largest in Zoo history.

The new main entrance, featuring 22 life-size stainless steel animal sculptures, will provide Zoo members and visitors faster entry into the Zoo. Within the complex, the Janus Gateway Center includes a 5,000 square-foot gift shop, executive offices, and public restrooms.

"Janus is extremely proud to be a part of this amazing project. We look forward to watching our partnership develop as the Zoo helps to position our city and state as a leader in international wildlife conservation and education," says Janus Capital Group Chief Financial Officer Loren Starr.

Predator Ridge is an example of what accredited zoos nationwide are trying to achieve - larger, more naturalistic and educational exhibits. Beautifully landscaped habitats will be home to 14 African species of mammals, birds and reptiles totaling 50 animals including lions, spotted hyenas, African wild dogs, crowned cranes, African porcupines, banded mongoose, vulturine guineafowl and more. Within Predator Ridge, the "Lion Kopje" (pronounced COE-pee, an Afrikaans term for a rocky outcropping) exhibit is home to two prides of lions. Predator Ridge will enhance the Zoo visitor's experience with up-close views of animals, educational information and interaction, as well as opportunities to see zookeepers work with these animals.

Predator Ridge also features 10-foot tall mounds for lions to survey their surroundings, electric hot rocks for warmth and a separate maternity den for mothers and future cubs called Pahali Ya Mwana, (pronounced pah-hall-ee yaw mwah-nuh, Swahili for "place of the young.") The exhibit offers several animal enrichment opportunities, including the ability to rotate hyenas, wild dogs and lions to different exhibits where their sense of smell will be delighted by the previous inhabitants' odors. This group of animals is also part of a unique operant conditioning program, wherein their keepers teach them basic verbal commands, which allows close examination for health check-ups.

An interactive discovery center called Pahali Ya Simba (pronounced pah-hall-ee yaw sim-bah, Swahili for "place of the lions") will play a great role in the Zoo's mission to educate visitors. In the center, guests will be able to view scenes of animals from within the Samburu Game Reserve in Kenya on new plasma television screens. To further the educational experience, visitors can learn about African wild dog and hyena conservation research and watch the zookeepers as they work with the lions and wild dogs in a specially-designed interactive area.

June 22 - 27, the Zoo will celebrate the grand opening of the Predator Ridge with special activities including musical and cultural entertainment, animal encounters, and added attractions, throughout the Zoo.

June 22, 2004

DENVER ZOO'S PREDATOR RIDGE OPENS JUNE 22, 2004
EXHIBIT BRINGS AFRICA TO DENVER

After three years of planning and 18 months of construction, the Denver Zoo's newest exhibit, "Predator Ridge" is nearly complete. June 22 - 26, the Zoo will celebrate the public unveiling and grand opening of the project, which showcases a series of dynamic exhibits designed to recreate a portion of the Samburu National Reserve in Kenya. The eight-acre area will be home to 14 African species of mammals, birds and reptiles totaling 50 animals.

A new Zoo Main Entrance, to provide convenient entry into the Zoo, and a new gift shop are other improvements that will be completed for the grand opening. Visitors will be greeted by life-size stainless steel sculptures of giraffes, crocodiles, and lions at the new entryway before entering "Predator Ridge" where they will wind through rock outcroppings and landscaped areas designed to mimic east Africa, to reveal spectacular views of lions and multiple species habitats including African wild dog and hyena.

"This project is only possible through the support of our community. Thanks to this support, our lions will have a much more spacious habitat and our visitors will have an enhanced viewing and learning experience. These were priorities to our visitors, and therefore, priorities in our Master Plan," says President/CEO Clayton Freiheit.

June 3, 2004

IT'S A BOY! - BABY GORILLA NAMED "JABALI" Visitors Can See Newborn In Denver Zoo Great Apes Habitat

Zookeepers at Denver Zoo have determined the infant Western lowland gorilla born on May 29 is a baby boy and have named him "Jabali" (Juh-ball-ee), a Swahili word for mountain, rock or boulder. The youngster is doing well with his troop and can bee seen in Primate Panorama in the Great Apes habitat at the Denver Zoo.

Jabali's mother, JoRayK, has been a nurturing mother and holds him all-day long. This made it difficult for zookeepers to ascertain the infant gorilla's sex. However after watching closely for several days, keepers are confident Jabali is a boy.

There are less than a dozen gorillas born in captivity every year in North America. Jabali is the second baby gorilla born at Denver Zoo in less than month.

The Western lowland gorilla is an endangered species. Denver Zoo is a participant of the Species Survival Plan (SSP) initiated by the American Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). The SSP is a cooperative population management program designed to maintain genetic diversity of endangered species. Animals often move to and from different zoos to help ensure the safety of the species for years to come through this program. Denver Zoo. JoRayK and her baby belong to Denver Zoo.

June 1, 2004

DENVER ZOO'S NEW BABY GORILLA MAKES MEDIA & PUBLIC DEBUT   Four-day-old baby gorilla is now on display to the public.

Denver Zoo's newest addition to its family will make its public and media debut on June 1 at 1 p.m. The baby is the second endangered Western lowland gorilla born at the Zoo in less than a month.

The baby and family can be seen in Primate Panorama at the Great Apes exhibit in the Denver Zoo. Born on May 29 to JoRayK, a 26-year old, female gorilla and father Jim (age 16). Now that the baby boy is on display, visitors will have the opportunity to watch the youngster's development at the Denver Zoo. JoRayK and her baby belong to Denver Zoo.

The Western lowland gorilla is an endangered species due to invasion of the gorillas' habitats in the rainforests of Nigeria. The Denver Zoo is a participant of the Species Survival Plan (SSP) initiated by the American Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). The SSP is a cooperative population management program designed to maintain genetic diversity of endangered species. Animals often move to and from different zoos to help ensure the safety of the species for years to come through this program.

May 20, 2004

Infant Gorilla To Move To Albuquerque Biological Park - Tulivu Will Remain In Denver Until the End Of June

Denver Zoo announced today that Tulivu (Too-lee-voo), the young gorilla who was born May 2nd, will be moving to a new home at the Albuquerque Biological Park in Albuquerque, NM. The decision for Tulivu to relocate to the Albuquerque Biological Park is the result of a pre-existing breeding loan agreement between Albuquerque Biological Park and Los Angeles Zoo. It is anticipated that she will be moving on June 28th.

"We have been fortunate to share in the care and development of young Tuli," said Clayton Freiheit, Denver Zoo President. "Our opportunity to provide her foster care has given her a solid start on life."

In Albuquerque, Tuli will reside at the zoo nursery, have frequent visits to the gorilla habitat and will eventually be introduced to a new gorilla social troop. Albuquerque Biological Park is currently home to seven gorillas.

It was originally assumed that Tulivu, who was born into a troop of visiting gorillas from Los Angeles Zoo, would relocate to Los Angeles Zoo when their new gorilla habitat was complete. Denver Zoo only recently became aware of the breeding loan agreement between Los Angeles Zoo and Albuquerque Biological Park and is working with the Albuquerque Biological Park to ensure a smooth transition. One of Tuli's future caregivers will visit Denver Zoo and observe her current caregivers.

For her remaining weeks in Denver, Tuli will continue to receive 24 -hour care and visitors can continue to see her in the Zoo's nursery. It is anticipated that she will start making socialization trips to the Great Ape House very soon. Denver Zoo is also anxiously anticipating the birth of a second gorilla any day to JoRayK.

Earlier baby gorilla news!

May 15, 2004

DENVER ZOO'S PREDATOR RIDGE OPENS JUNE 22, 2004 - EXHIBIT BRINGS AFRICA TO DENVER

After three years of planning and 18 months of construction, the Denver Zoo's newest exhibit, "Predator Ridge" is nearly complete. June 22 - 26, the Zoo will celebrate the public unveiling and grand opening of the project, which showcases a series of dynamic exhibits designed to recreate a portion of the Samburu National Reserve in Kenya. The eight-acre area will be home to 14 African species of mammals, birds and reptiles totaling 50 animals.

A new Zoo Main Entrance, to provide convenient entry into the Zoo, and a new gift shop are other improvements that will be completed for the grand opening. Visitors will be greeted by life-size stainless steel sculptures of giraffes, crocodiles, and lions at the new entryway before entering "Predator Ridge" where they will wind through rock outcroppings and landscaped areas designed to mimic east Africa, to reveal spectacular views of lions and multiple species habitats including African wild dog and hyena.

"This project is only possible through the support of our community. Thanks to this support, our lions will have a much more spacious habitat and our visitors will have an enhanced viewing and learning experience. These were priorities to our visitors, and therefore, priorities in our Master Plan," says President/CEO Clayton Freiheit.

In 1999, voters approved a bond initiative for $62.5 million dollars to support the Zoo's Millennium Master Plan which envisions $125 million in long-term improvements. The Denver Zoological Foundation matched $13.75 million in bond money, with privately raised dollars, to fund the total cost of $27.5 million, for the new entrance and exhibits. The parking garage completed in 2002, the new entryway, and "Predator Ridge" mark the completion of the first of four phases of the Master Plan.

"Predator Ridge" will provide new naturalistic habitats that depict the semi-arid east African savanna for lions, spotted hyenas, African wild dogs, crowned cranes, African porcupines, banded mongoose, vulturine guinea fowl and more. Within "Predator Ridge," the "Lion Kopje" (pronounced COE-pee, an Afrikaans term for a rocky outcropping) exhibit is home to two prides of lions. Their new habitat features 10-foot tall mounds for lions to survey their surroundings, electric "hot rocks" for warmth and a separate maternity den for mothers and future cubs. Both exhibits offer close up views for visitors to watch zookeepers work with the animals. In addition, the exhibit offers several animal enrichment opportunities, including the ability to rotate hyena, wild dog, and lions to different exhibits where their sense of smell will be delighted by the previous inhabitants' odors. This group of animals is also part of a unique operant conditioning program, wherein their keepers teach them basic verbal commands which allows close examination for health check-ups.

May 5, 2004

BABY GORILLA TO BE HAND-RAISED BY DENVER ZOO STAFF Infant Will be Cared for in Zoo's Nursery

The decision by Denver Zoo officials to move the newborn Western lowland gorilla to the Zoo's nursery was a disappointing one to have to make but not difficult. Zookeepers had feared that the infants mother, Rapunzel (19-years old), an inexperienced, first-time mom may not exhibit natural maternal instincts and when the baby had not been observed nursing for more than 48 hours, the decision was made in the best interest of the 5 lb. infant, to transfer it to the nursery to be hand-raised by hospital and zookeeper staff.

Hand-raising gorillas in zoos is fairly common but it is always preferred for the mother to raise the offspring on her own. Rapunzel was hand-raised at the Cincinnati Zoo in 1984. This past Sunday and Monday, following the baby's birth, Rapunzel paid attention to her newborn but she simply did not seem to understand that she needed to feed the infant. "We would rather that her mother could have raised her," said Denver Zoo Vice President of Biological Programs Dr. Lynn Kramer who helped raise Rapunzel at Cincinnati Zoo and will now oversee the rearing of Rapunzel's baby, "but we were prepared for the possibility that this could happen and we will do our best to help the infant grow and hopefully, when she has matured, be able to rejoin her troop."

The gorilla infant, who has not yet been named, will receive 24-hour care at the Zoo's nursery. She will be fed every three hours and once she gains her strength, will make frequent visits to the Great Apes building to observe the other gorillas.

The Denver Zoo Nursery is open from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. and visitors will be able to see the gorilla infant daily.

Earlier baby gorilla news!

May 3, 2004

DENVER ZOO CELEBRATES RARE GORILLA BIRTH Western Lowland Gorilla Birth First at Denver Zoo in 30 Years

Denver Zoo is celebrating the birth of an endangered Western lowland gorilla. Rapunzel, a 19-year old gorilla visiting from the Los Angeles Zoo, gave birth to a 5 lb, 4 oz. female baby on May 2. The baby, who has not yet been named, is the first gorilla born at Denver Zoo in 30 years. Kelly, a 16-year old silverback, is the father.

"The birth of this gorilla is very significant," stated Denver Zoo President, Clayton Freiheit, "because of the severely endangered status of these creatures. Her birth will help in efforts to preserve this species." Denver Zoo is also pleased to announce that another Western lowland gorilla birth is expected later this month from Jo Ray K, a 26-year old Denver Zoo resident. There are only half a dozen gorilla births in the U.S. each year. The approved breeding of Denver Zoo gorillas is part of the internationally recognized Species Survival Plan (SSP) initiated by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA). The SSP is a cooperative population management program designed to maintain genetic diversity of endangered species.

Currently Rapunzel and the new baby are not yet available for public viewing, but zookeepers say if all goes well, baby and mother could be on exhibit to the public in a week or so. Rapunzel and her newborn are currently bonding and being carefully monitored because she is an inexperienced mother, this is her first baby.

April 7, 2004

ARRIVAL OF THREE LITTLE PIGS BRINGS FAIRYTALE TO DENVER ZOO
Zoo Celebrates Rare Birth of Three Red River Hog Piglets

Denver Zoo is squealing with joy over the birth of three rare, red river hog piglets. The three little pigs, two male and a female, were born to mother, Rosie, and father, Rambo, on March 15, 2004. The brothers are named "Roux" (ROO) and "Renny" (Ren-ee), and baby sister is named "Raina" (Rey-nah).

Red river hogs are often called the "world's prettiest pig" because of their strikingly red coloration, distinctive ear tassels and unusual facial markings. At birth, red river hogs, native to central Africa in the Congo basin, weigh approximately two pounds each and measure approximately 10 inches in length. The animals will be fully grown in two years and will weigh between 100-250 pounds. Piglets are very playful and engage in activities such as chasing their own tail and each other.

The red river hog's powerful body and long pronounced mobile snout make them well adapted to foraging for root-type vegetables. Red river hogs are omnivorous and use their outstanding sense of smell to locate and uncover food, then use the back of their nose for shoveling. At the zoo, the pigs are fed a high fiber diet including chow and grass hay plus root vegetables like yams, potatoes, turnips and carrots.

March 22, 2004

A WET & WILD NEW EXHIBIT IS AFLOAT AT THE ZOO

Tides, they are a changin' at the Denver Zoo, as the Zoo unveils a new permanent exhibit for fish and reptiles. The exciting new exhibit within the Tropical Discovery's Discovery Center will provide visitors enhanced underwater viewing of fish and terrestrial views of snakes, turtles, lizards and frogs. The media is invited to an exclusive photo opportunity and walk-through tour on Tuesday, March 23, at 9:30 a.m.

Several new aquatic species will flood the exhibit, which focuses on disappearing habitats and species. The endangered golden frog and threatened snake-neck turtle will be displayed, plus, a new wave of reptile species will debut, including hump-headed Javan lizards, the common hump-headed lizard and the rare Guatemalan beaded lizard, one of only three venomous lizard species in the world (very rare in world zoos and the wild). Snake lovers will be fascinated by the venomous puff adder and 10-foot habitat for the extraordinary bushmaster.

This exotic exhibit provides an in-depth view of some of the world's most fascinating fish, which are endemic to tropical regions of the world. The display includes a fresh look at the freshwater cardinal tetra, severum cichlids and the bushy-mouth catfish. Visitors will also discover a colorful mossy frog, a twig catfish and a banjo catfish. A stunning highlight is the mysterious and amazing elephant-nosed knife fish, an "electric" fish that has the capacity to generate actual electrical fields. From the murky depths of the Amazon, these fascinating fish use their electric sense (a true sixth sense) to locate prey, avoid predators, recognize other members of their species, and navigate the dark and turbid waters of the tropics.

Another "cool" addition is a display which features the ridge-nosed rattlesnake and side-striped palm viper. The state-of-the-art exhibitry features a separate air conditioning system for these species, endemic to cooler, mountainous regions of the tropics.

This dramatic display cost over $40,000 and involved the work and input of the keepers, horticulture and maintenance staff and took over four months to complete.

Fun facts about Tropical Discovery:

• Denver Zoo's Komodo dragon exhibit, which opened in 1999, spans 5,500 square feet and is the largest indoor Komodo dragon exhibit in the world.
• Tropical Discovery (TD) features seven miles of PVC pipe to provide vital aquatic support throughout the 48,000 square foot indoor rainforest habitat
• Tropical Discovery can be rented for private parties
• Tropical Discovery opened in 1993, effectively doubling the number of species at the zoo
• The Denver Zoo staff is involved in several successful international conservation projects in Madagascar and at the zoo, which are aimed at learning more about the native wildlife, establishing captive reproductive populations and further enhancing the recovery of the wild populations and places. Since 1995, researchers have discovered five new species of fishes native to Madagascar.

March 17, 2004

THREE BABY GOATS KEEP DENVER ZOO STAFF HOPPING
PUBLIC FEEDINGS AT NOON & 3:30 PM DAILY

The Denver Zoo Animal Hospital's nursery is full of the pitter patter of precocious baby goats' feet. Three Nubian goats, all about three weeks old, are currently residing in the Denver Zoo Animal Hospital as they prepare for their debut this summer in the Zoo's animal contact area.

The goats are being cared for around-the-clock by Nursery and Education staff, with public feedings at Noon and 3:30 PM daily. The goats are bottle-fed goat's milk at feeding time and are offered grain throughout the day.

The three goats are all males whose names are African in origin, "Zuli," (brilliant), "Mo" (substance of life) and "Neo" (present/gift). The three goats will join the Denver Zoo's current herd of five goats (four pygmy and one Nubian) in the zoo's popular African farmyard area, known as the Kraal. This exhibit will open within Primate Panorama, on Memorial Day weekend.

March 2, 2004

DENVER ZOO BABY MAKES OUTDOOR DEBUT

Denver Zoo's newest okapi, now nearly three months-old, has reached a new, developmental milestone and can now be seen exploring her outdoor exhibit.

The female calf, "Baraka" (Bar-ah-kah, a Swahili word for "blessing") was born on December 20, 2003 and is growing strong under the watchful eye of her mother "Karama." The calf was born as part of the Species Survival Plan, (SSP), a cooperative population management and conservation program for select species in zoos and aquariums in North America. Each SSP manages the breeding of a species in order to maintain a healthy and self-sustaining captive population that is both genetically diverse and geographically stable. The mother, on loan from the Dallas Zoo, and the father, "Shani," on loan from White Oak Conservation Center, are both four-years-old. This calf is the first born to this SSP sanctioned breeding pair and the second calf born at the Denver Zoo.

The okapi is a severely endangered species and is the only living relative of the giraffe. It is not known how many okapis exist in the wild and less than 150 animals survive worldwide in zoos. Only 20 zoos in North America exhibit the species. The okapi has a 12-inch, purple, prehensile tongue and white stripes flanking its chocolate coat. This rare species was first discovered less than 100 years ago in what is now the Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Zaire). Very little is known about the behavior of the okapi in the wild due to its shy, elusive nature. Much of what is known has been learned in zoos in the past 45 years.

Adult okapis weigh between 400 and 500 pounds and stand approximately five feet tall at the shoulder. Females are generally larger than males. The okapi's gestation period is between 14 and 15 months. As an equatorial animal, the okapi prefers warm weather. Zoo staff expects the young calf to explore her outdoor habitat on warm days.

February 2, 2004

DENVER ZOO CELEBRATES MOMENTOUS BIRTH - SECOND OKAPI BORN IN DENVER ZOO HISTORY

Denver Zoo staff are celebrating the recent birth of a rare okapi (Oh-kah-pee). "Okapis are true zoological treasures with fewer than 100 animals in North American collections" said Clayton Freiheit, President of the Denver Zoological Foundation. The female calf, "Baraka" (Bar-ah-kah, a Swahili word for "blessing") was born on December 20, 2003 and is growing strong under the watchful eye of her mother "Karama."

The calf was born as part of the Species Survival Plan, (SSP), a cooperative population management and conservation program for select species in zoos and aquariums in North America. Each SSP manages the breeding of a species in order to maintain a healthy and self-sustaining captive population that is both genetically diverse and geographically stable. The mother, on loan from the Dallas Zoo, and the father, "Shani," on loan from White Oak Conservation Center, are both four-years-old. This calf is the first born to this SSP sanctioned breeding pair and the second calf born at the Denver Zoo.

The okapi is a severely endangered species and is the only living relative of the giraffe. It is not known how many okapis exist in the wild and less than 150 animals survive worldwide in zoos. Only 20 zoos in North America exhibit the species. The okapi has a 12-inch, purple, prehensile tongue and white stripes flanking its chocolate coat. This rare species was first discovered less than 100 years ago in what is now the Central African Republic (formerly Zaire). Very little is known about the behavior of the okapi in the wild due to its shy, elusive nature. Much of what is known has been learned in zoos in the past 45 years.

Adult okapis weigh between 400 and 500 pounds and stand approximately five feet tall at the shoulder. Females are generally larger than males. The okapi's gestation period is between 14 and 15 months.

As an equatorial animal, the okapi prefers warm weather. Zoo staff expects the young calf to explore her outdoor habitat later this spring, with the onset of warmer weather.

January 14, 2004

DENVER ZOO PROVIDES HOST OF IDEAS FOR FAMILIES TO EXPLORE THE WILD SIDE OF VALENTINE'S DAY!

Denver Zoo offers three ways for families to celebrate Valentine's Day including a "Jungle Lovin'" course for adults, camping at the zoo for kids and free admission for all on Saturday, February 14 from 10-4 PM.

FOR ADULTS:

Jungle Lovin', for adults only, provides a crash course in amorous antics, colorful courtships and passionate partnering within the animal kingdom, complete with champagne and chocolates.

On Friday, February 13, 2004, from 7-8:30 PM, the zoo will present an entertaining evening, for mature audiences, exploring the interesting world of animal courtship and mating. A Denver Zoo keeper will compare and contrast human courtship to other animal species, explore the diversity of sex in the animal kingdom, discuss animal magnetism and the conservation of species through "safe sex" uses of birth control and breeding methods.

Space is limited, reservations required, must be 21 to attend. Cost, $20/Denver Zoo Members, $22/non members. For more information, contact (303) 376-4888 ext. 8 or email registration@denverzoo.org.

FOR KIDS:

Bunk with the Beasts offers a fun, safe place for kids on Valentine's Day! The popular Bunk with the Beasts program at the Denver Zoo starts at 6:30 p.m. on February 14, and provides families a fun and safe location for kids to spend the holiday. Children ages 6-13 are invited to participate. Fun includes dinner, snacks, crafts, activities, live animal demonstrations, a nocturnal safari, sleeping "camping style" and continental breakfast the next morning. Space is limited. Cost, $55/child. Call (303) 376-4894 or email edsupport@denverzoo.org for details.

FOR ALL:

Free Admission! Thanks to voters who approved the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD) tax back in 1994, the Denver Zoo will host free admission day on Saturday, February 14, 2004. Residents of the state of Colorado - with proof of residency - will receive free daytime admission to the zoo from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

January 8, 2004

GORILLA UNEXPECTEDLY ENTERS BACK SERVICE AREA
PUBLIC NEVER IN DANGER

At approximately 10:15 a.m., January 8, Evelyn, a 27-year old female lowland gorilla was able to access an indoor keeper service area in the great ape building. The gorilla never left the secured building, and at no time was the public endangered. Denver Zoo veterinary staff was able to safely tranquilize the 250-lb. gorilla at about 11 AM.

During the 45 minutes she was out of her exhibit, Evelyn spent her time in the kitchen area, exploring the food stations and playing with a rubber hose.

At the time of the incident, Denver Zoo activated its emergency Code Red procedures, which ensured the safety of all visitors and staff; the zoo was locked-down for approximately 45 minutes. Denver Zoo staff practices extensive emergency and training protocols regularly.

Denver Zoo has an excellent safety record and an incident like this is extremely rare. The animal gained access to the service area due to human error.