Denver Zoo: News Room

Denver Zoo statement regarding SFZ Tiger accident

All of us here at Denver Zoo are deeply saddened to hear about what happened at the San Francisco Zoo. We offer our sympathy to everyone involved in this tragedy.

We will not speculate on the accident at San Francisco Zoo and will not be granting interview on the incident.

Here at Denver Zoo, the safety of our visitors, employees and animals is our top priority. At Denver Zoo, we have housed tigers safely without incident in the Feline exhibit for more than 40 years. We are confident that this enclosure is safe.

As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), Denver Zoo undergoes mandatory accreditation inspections which require safety and emergency standards and protocols that go beyond federal, state or local requirements. Should any new information regarding tiger enclosures come to light, Denver Zoo, like other accredited zoos, would work closely with the AZA to see if any modifications are necessary. However, we are confident Denver Zoo continues to be a safe place to visit.

A full copy of the AZA accreditation standards can be found at http://www.aza.org/Accreditation/Documents/AccredStandPol.pdf.

Information about Tatiana the tiger:

Tatiana was born 6-27-2003 at Denver Zoo. She was donated to San Francisco Zoo in December of 2005.

Information about Denver Zoo’s Tiger exhibit:

Denver Zoo’s tiger moat is 25-feet wide and the moat wall is 18-feet tall. The inside height of the moat is 16 feet 6 inches high with some slight variations as the soil is not completely even across the inside edge of the wall.

Denver Zoo currently has three tigers

KWANZAA EVENT TO CELEBRATE AFRICAN HERITAGE AT DENVER ZOO
CELEBRATION A PART OF ZOO LIGHTS, RUNS DEC. 26 – 30, 5 – 9 P.M.

Gather with friends, family and the community as Denver Zoo celebrates the cultural tradition of Kwanzaa with special entertainment from 5 – 9 p.m., Dec. 26 – 30. Visitors will be able to embrace a holiday that honors African American heritage through African dance, music, storytelling and educational crafts. Kwanzaa is a non-religious, culturally-centered celebration that observes ancient Swahili principles to affirm, heal, unify, and empower.

Also coming up is Zoo Year's Eve on December 31 from 5 – 9 p.m. Families can ring in the New Year with the animals of Denver Zoo! Children of all ages will be able to enjoy entertainment, activities and crafts with the grand finale leading to an early countdown at 9 p.m.

Zoo Lights is open nightly through January 6, including Christmas Eve, Christmas Night and New Year’s Eve. Warming stations throughout the zoo offer roasted chestnuts, hot chocolate, cider and soft bread pretzels. The Zoo’s Conservation Carousel is also open for a spin. The zoo will also be open during the day on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Years Day.

There are several new additions this year that will make the 2007 Zoo Lights better than ever! Inside Tropical Discovery, guests can get up close and personal with animal friends during nightly animal demonstrations. These special encounters were only twice a week last year, but will be every night from 6 – 8 p.m. this year to accommodate their high demand. Also new this year, is a life-sized addition to the collection of more than 200 animated life sculptures, an ornately decorated Asian elephant. Zoo Lights will stay open an extra week this year through January 6 while the schools are still on vacation.

Zoo Lights is the largest lighting event in the Rocky Mountain Region and the largest annual event hosted by Denver Zoo. It takes six members of the Denver Zoo staff three months to set up the displays, and an equal amount of time to dismantle the 38 acres of lights.

This year tickets can be purchased online at www.denverzoo.org. Admission to Zoo Lights is $8 for adults (12-64), $4 for children (3-11), $6 for senior citizens (65+), children 2 and under are admitted free. For more information on Zoo Lights, please call the Denver Zoo at (303) 376-4800 or visit www.denverzoo.org.

Zoo Lights is sponsored by Alice 105.9, KEZW, KOSI 101, The Mountain, 9News, The Rocky Mountain News and Renewable Choice Energy.

DENVER ZOO RECOGNIZED FOR SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENT IN CONSERVATION - Long-Term Work in Mongolia Honored by Association of Zoos and Aquariums

Denver Zoo has been recognized by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) for its long-term conservation work in Mongolia with the receipt of an AZA International Conservation Significant Achievement Award.This award is given to institutions that have shown outstanding commitment to one or more species outside of North America. Denver Zoo has been involved in conservation projects with multiple species in Mongolia since 1996 and will continue its work there indefinitely.

Denver Zoo’s Mongolian Wildlife Conservation Program was established in 1996 to assist the zoo’s Mongolian colleagues with developing sustainable conservation programs for the multiple threatened species native to the area. In the past 11 years Denver Zoo has been supporting this program through direct funding and the participation of multiple zoo staff members on these research projects.

Denver Zoo’s research has led to changes such as influencing management plans; establishing protected areas; delineating conservation zones in protected areas; and incorporating local concerns in conservation initiatives.

The initial project focused on argali sheep, but has slowly expanded to include work with several other native species. Argali are classified as vulnerable by The World Conservation Union (IUCN) due to poaching and conflicts with domestic livestock production. So far, researchers have radio collared 115 argali to track their movements and establish home ranges. Additionally, behavioral observations, genetic analyses, collection of biological samples, necropsies (animal autopsies) of animals that died, and fecal analyses also have been conducted. The results of this work are helping to better conserve these magnificent animals.

In addition to the conservation work for cinereous vultures that takes place on zoo grounds, Denver Zoo has been involved with this species in Mongolia since 2003. Researchers are trying to determine the breeding success of the population in the area by counting nests, monitoring growth of chicks and tagging young birds.

Denver Zoo’s work in Mongolia has expanded to include work with various other species in the area, including critically-endangered wild Bactrian camels, snow leopards, ibex, Pallas’ cats, corsac and red foxes, Asian wild asses, gazelle, Eurasian badgers, hedgehogs, dwarf hamsters, lesser kestrels and various other raptor species.

The overall goal of the program is to ensure that Mongolia develops the capacity and methods of resource generation to independently conserve the country’s natural resources in a way that enjoys enduring public support. In addition to research, Denver Zoo maintains a multifaceted education component focused on training conservation practitioners and developing education and outreach programs for local people.

In addition to the valuable conservation work in Mongolia, Denver Zoo is currently involved in projects on four other continents, including work with endangered species such as Asian elephants and Sumatran tigers in Asia, Grevy’s zebras and African wild dogs in Africa, golden frogs from South America, and prairie dogs in North America. More information about Denver Zoo’s Conservation Biology program can be found on the Conservation page.

Between 1996 and 2006, Denver Zoo was involved in 390 field conservation and research projects in 47 countries. In 2006 alone, Denver Zoo was involved in70 projects in more than20 countries on five continents (Africa, Asia, Europe, North America and South America). In 2006, within the United States, the zoo was involved in conservation and research projects in seven states, includingsix projects in Colorado.

SING ALONG TO “THE 12 NIGHTS OF ZOO LIGHTS” - Zoo Lights Runs Nightly, 5 - 9 p.m. Through Jan. 6

Today, Tuesday, December 18, is the twelfth night of Denver Zoo’s 2007 Zoo Lights season which began on opening night, Friday, December 7. To celebrate the twelfth night of this favorite holiday tradition, Denver Zoo staff has created a sing-along music video, entitled “The 12 Nights of Zoo Lights” that can be viewed here. Zoo Lights runs nightly from 5 – 9 p.m. through January 6.

The lyrics to “The 12 Nights of Zoo Lights,” sung by Ye Wanton Singers to the tune of “The 12 Days of Christmas,” include several attractions that visitors will be able to enjoy during Zoo Lights.

WILD ICE AT DENVER ZOO LIGHTS OPENS TONIGHT -Dec. 14 – 23 Zoo Lights Will Host Fire Dancers and Ice Carvers

Beginning tonight, fire and ice will meet at Denver Zoo Lights during Wild Ice, Dec. 14-23 when the zoo opens its ice sculpture garden and will showcase fire dancers performing nightly at the Zoo’s North Pole! Although Zoo Lights will continue through January 6, this special entertainment is available on these 10 nights only. Santa also will be at the zoo through Dec. 23 visiting boys and girls.

This special ice sculpture garden will be filled with numerous carvings created from 300 pound blocks of ice by Santa’s helpers with power tools. Fire dancers will perform at 6 and 8 p.m. Dec 14-23 in the garden. The garden and fire dance performance are free with Zoo Lights admission.

In addition to the excitement of fire and ice, visitors during Wild Ice also will be able to experience all the traditional elements of Zoo Lights. Guests will enjoy more than 200 animated animal light sculptures, warming stations throughout the zoo, delicious holiday treats and of course some of the zoo’s most charismatic residents including Asian elephants, Mimi and Dolly, polar bears, sea lions, new giraffe calves Kang and Turbo, all the animals inside Tropical Discovery and more!

As Denver Zoo is doing its part to be green this holiday season and continues to update its light collection to reflect its mission of conservation. More environmentally friendly LED lights, or light-emitting diodes, have been added and they now compose 90 percent of the Zoo Lights. LEDs use only a fraction of the energy of conventional bulbs and are much better for the environment. LEDs use only about one percent of the power of standard (C7) holiday lights, and about 10 percent of the power in mini-lights. Visit www.denverzoo.org for more green tips for the holidays.

December 13, 2007

SANTA CLAUS IN TOWN FOR ZOO LIGHTS, GAVE RHINO EARLY HOLIDAY TREATMshindi, The Rhino, Makes Nice List, Receives Special Santa Visit and Treat

Denver Zoo’s male black rhinoceros, Mshindi, made Santa’s nice list and the big man himself made a special trip to bring him his favorite treat, apples, for his good behavior. Zookeepers contacted Santa to let him know how good Mshindi has been this past year awing many zoo visitors daily. Santa, who is visiting children nightly at Zoo Lights through December 23, made a special daytime visit to Denver Zoo to visit the animals.

Denver Zoo’s rhinos can be seen during Zoo Lights along with many animal friends like the sea lions, seals, polar bears, camels, arctic foxes, reindeer and zebras. Inside the Pachyderm House, visitors can also see elephants, hippos and tapirs. The Giraffe House will also be open for guests to see two young calves, Kang and Turbo. Tropical Discovery is another great area to stop and get warm with numerous fishes and reptiles on exhibit.

In addition to the more than two million lights decorating the zoo, numerous special events are also planned during the Zoo Lights celebration, including:

Guests who wish to give back to the community during the holidays can donate non-perishable food items to a program offered through 9 News called, “9 Cares, Colorado Shares.” Admission will be reduced by one dollar to those donate at the gate.

This year tickets can be purchased online at www.denverzoo.org. Admission to Zoo Lights is $8 for adults (12-64), $4 for children (3-11), $6 for senior citizens (65+), and children 2 and under are admitted free. For more information on Zoo Lights, please call the Denver Zoo at (303) 376-4800 or visit www.denverzoo.org.

Zoo Lights is sponsored by Alice 105.9, KEZW, KOSI 101, The Mountain, 9 News, The Rocky Mountain News and Renewable Choice Energy.

The Denver Zoological Foundation Board of Trustees unanimously elected Craig Piper as the new President and Chief Executive Officer of Denver Zoo on November 21, 2007. Piper, who was serving as the Zoo’s Executive Vice President/COO and has managed the zoo during former President/CEO Clayton Freiheit’s illness, will be responsible for the overall management of the 80-acre, award-winning zoo, including animal management, worldwide conservation programs, fundraising, education, research, physical improvements, marketing and operations.

“It’s quite an honor to succeed an icon. Clayton’s shoes are impossible to fill. However, the best way we can honor him is to continue with his good work and I’m honored to be entrusted by the Board to lead that effort. Our entire staff remains determined and committed to continue to improve the Zoo, our service to the community and our education and conservation mission,” Piper says. Piper succeeds Denver Zoo President/CEO, the late Clayton Freiheit, who led the Zoo for 37 years. Freiheit died October 29 after a battle with cancer.

“Craig not only has done an excellent job in the position of Executive Vice President/COO, but in this last year has been, for all practical purposes, acting as president of the Zoo. He has done a superb job at both. We are very fortunate to have an individual of this high a caliber within the Zoo family,” Denver Zoological Foundation Board Chairman Bruce Wagner said.

“I’ve known Craig since the day he arrived at the zoo. He’s done a tremendous job in all the various positions he has held. There is no one more qualified to fill Clayton Freiheit’s very large shoes,” says former Board Chair and Denver Zoological Foundation Honorary Life Trustee Bruce Benson.

Piper began his career at Denver Zoo 10 years ago as the Director of Education & Volunteer Services. Holding a dual degree in Architecture and Zoology, Piper moved from the head of the Zoo’s Education Department to the newly created position of Vice President for Planning & Capital Projects in 2000. In 2005, Piper was again promoted to Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer.

During his 10-year tenure Piper has managed the design and construction of the Zoo’s Millennium Master Plan, including the award-winning Predator Ridge exhibit, new entrance, new parking garage, Congo Basin exhibit and the Conservation Carousel. Piper also oversaw the strategic development of the Education & Volunteer Services Department’s staff and programs, significantly expanding the breadth and scope of services provided.

“Denver Zoo has become one of the best zoos in the country and is cherished by our community. Our zoo will continue to serve as an education resource for students and teachers, serving as a wildlife conservation center, while providing important support to worldwide animal conservation,” says Piper.

Piper is well known and respected in the zoo community and he is a Professional Fellow of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA). He currently serves as Vice Chair for AZA’s Board of Regents and Immediate Past Chair for AZA’s Conference Committee. Previously, he has served as Chair, AZA Conference Committee (2005-2006); Chair, AZA Conference Management Committee (2002-2004); Member, AZA Trends Committee (2001-2004); Chair, AZA Regional Conference Task Force (1999-2002); Member, AZA Honors And Awards Committee (1999-2002); Member, AZA Public Education Committee (1988-1994); and Instructor, AZA Continuing Education Schools, “Creating Successful Exhibits” Course (2000-present). Piper also serves as a member of the Board of Directors of The National Elephant Center, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to the welfare and conservation of elephants, both in situ and under human care.

Piper holds a Bachelor of Science degree with studies in Architecture and Zoology from the University of Michigan, as well as a Master of Architecture from the University of Michigan, with a concentration in environmental design and museum planning and programming.

“Like so many, I was touched by a teacher who encouraged me to explore my multiple interests, nurturing my love of animals and interest in design. Neither of us knew at the time where it would lead, but I’m so grateful for the fortunate advice. I love coming to work with such a great group of people each day. As my wife once remarked, ‘my career is a hobby that got out of hand,’” said Piper.

Prior to joining Denver Zoo, Piper practiced his ambidextrous zoo/architecture skills at Zoo Atlanta as the Assistant Curator of Education, Exhibit Coordinator and Curator of Exhibits/Coordinator for Environmental Design Research. However, his first zoo positions began as internships, where in his early years he served as a volunteer and intern for Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.

Piper is married to Marilyn Donohoe Piper and has three beautiful and talented daughters. The Piper family lives in Littleton.

November 28, 2007

RARE PRIMATE SPECIES AT DENVER ZOO FOR FIRST TIME - Visitors Can Now See Pair Of Mongoose Lemurs in Emerald Forest

For the first time at Denver Zoo, visitors can now see rare mongoose lemurs. This unique lemur species is classified as vulnerable by the World Conservation Union (IUCN) and there are only 48 other mongoose lemurs in 11 other North American Zoos. The pair of adult mongoose lemurs, Jose-Luis (male) and Adrianna (female), can be seen exploring their new digs in the Emerald Forest Building.

Habitat destruction is the primary threat to mongoose lemurs in the wild. The mongoose lemurs range is now reduced to small scattered patches of dry forest in Northwestern Madagascar. Mongoose lemurs are known to have only one strong hold in a protected area called the Ankarafantsika Nature Reserve. The current wild population is estimated to be only between 1,000 and 10,000 animals.

Mongoose lemurs have soft grey-brown fur with a pale grey muzzle and black nose. The males have reddish-brown cheeks, while the females are distinguishable by their white cheeks. Like most other lemur species, they spend time both in the trees and on the ground. They are unique among lemurs in that they are active both at night and during the day, depending on the season.

There are 88 different species of lemurs that survive only on the island of Madagascar. In addition to the new mongoose lemurs, visitors to Denver Zoo can see four other lemur species including the ring-tailed lemur, red ruffed lemur, white-collared brown lemur and the Coquerel’s mouse lemur.

TWO JOEYS HOP INTO THE WORLD AT DENVER ZOO - Visitors Can See Two Young Kangaroos Over Thanksgiving Holiday!

Denver Zoo will be open on Thanksgiving Day and visitors will be able to see two young red kangaroos, called joeys, who have begun exploring the world outside their mothers’ pouches. One of the joeys, believed to be approximately 6 months old has just begun to peak its head out of mother Rita’s pouch. The older joey, a female named Athena, estimated to be around 7 months old can occasionally be seen inside mother Marion’s pouch, but is spending most of her time hoping around
on her own!

Kangaroos are marsupials and are born underdeveloped and measuring only about an inch in length. Immediately after birth the joey crawls into its mothers’ pouch where they nurse and grow until they are old enough to begin spending brief periods outside of the pouch. Because joeys are so small when they are born their immediate arrival is often difficult to detect, making the exact date of birth impossible to determine.

Red kangaroos, found throughout mainland Australia, are the largest of all the kangaroo species and the largest living marsupial in the world. Marsupials are mammals that give birth to underdeveloped young that nurse and mature inside the mother’s pouch. Female kangaroos are smaller than males and have less red tint in their coats. Males can stand more than 6 feet tall, weigh up to 200 pounds and jump more than 25 feet in one leap!

A group of kangaroos is called a mob. Denver Zoo’s mob of red kangaroos includes the two mothers, Rita and Marion, their joeys, father, Irwin and one other female, Boingo. The mob shares a habitat with two male Emus, another Australian species.

November 14, 2007

DENVER ZOO LEADER CLAYTON F. FREIHEIT TO BE HONORED BY DIGNITARIES AT CELEBRATION ON NOVEMBER 16 - Freiheit Recognized Posthumously at City Council Meeting

The City and County of Denver posthumously honored Denver Zoo President/CEO Clayton Freiheit at the November 12 City Council meeting with a Proclamation celebrating Freiheit’s life and accomplishments. The beloved zoo leader died October 28, 2007, following a battle with cancer.

“Clayton’s accomplishments reach well beyond the footprint of Denver Zoo. His dedication has given the city of Denver a world-class cultural and educational attraction,” says Councilwoman Peggy Lehmann, who read the Proclamation at the meeting.

The Proclamation noted Freiheit’s 37-year tenure at Denver Zoo, spearheading the development of world-class exhibits like Bird World, Northern Shores, Tropical Discovery, Primate Panorama and Predator Ridge. Freiheit’s involvement with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), having served as the organizations youngest president, was also recognized, as well as the leader’s outstanding commitment to the zoo working from his hospital bed nearly to the end of his life safari.

Congresswoman Diana DeGette plans to honor Freiheit by entering his accomplishments in the Congressional Record. Greg Diamond, the District Director for the Office of the Honorable Diana Degette, will address guests attending the November 16 event to celebrate the zoo visionary’s life. The event is open to the public and begins at 10 a.m. at the University of Denver’s Newman Center for the Performing Arts, 2344 E. Iliff Ave., Denver, CO.

Friends and colleagues from around the nation will honor Freiheit by attending and speaking at the event including Mayor John Hickenlooper, Scientific Facilities and Cultural Facilities District Board of Directors Vice Chair Holly Osgood, and Satch Krantz, the Executive Director of the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden and AZA Board of Directors Chair.

“We have had an enormous outpouring of people who want to honor Clayton and join us in celebrating his life. We are so touched by the support we have received from around the world,” says Denver Zoo Executive Vice President/COO Craig Piper.

Following the public event, a private celebration will be held at Denver Zoo for family and close friends. Denver Zoo will be closed to the public on November 16 in Clayton’s memory.

In lieu of flowers or other gifts, Freiheit wished that donations be made to Denver Zoo in support of the capital campaign for Asian Tropics, a 10-acre state-of-the-art exhibit for Asian species. In honor of Freiheit, the 20,000 square-foot indoor elephant quarters within Asian Tropics will be known as the Clayton F. Freiheit Elephant House. Gifts to Asian Tropics are matched by Zoo Improvement Bond funds, passed by Denver voters in 1999. Donations may be sent to Denver Zoological Foundation, 2300 Steele Street, Denver, CO 80205, Attn: Development Department or made online at www.denverzoo.org.

Freiheit was a true visionary, leader and passionate animal lover, dedicating his entire life to the welfare and preservation of animals. He also worked tirelessly to ensure that all members of this community, regardless of means, were given the opportunity to see and gain an appreciation for the animals in his care. Under Freiheit’s guidance, Denver Zoo created its first conservation department, significantly expanded its education programs and brought together one of the most comprehensive collections of animals in the world.

As the zoo continues to investigate the death of hippo Hazina, who died October 27, a day after being transported to Calgary Zoo, Denver Zoo is releasing information known at this time about the incident. The zoo, while mourning the loss of their beloved Director of 37 years, Clayton Freiheit, is working diligently to determine what could have been done differently to prevent the loss of Hazina.

Denver Zoo animal care staff hired Planned Migration, an experienced animal transport company that is well-respected within the zoo community and considered an expert in the field. Denver Zoo has worked with Planned Migration since April of 2000, and has transported 108 different animals with this company, including primates, pachyderms, felines, bears and birds, totaling 51 different trips, without incident.

“I checked on Hazina every two to three and a half hours and remained in contact with Denver Zoo throughout the trip. Hazina showed no outward signs of physical distress at any time during the drive. We had no idea that she was not doing well until we got to Calgary Zoo,” said Chris Danhauer, the owner and operator of Planned Migration that lead the transfer.

Danhauer is licensed by the USDA as an animal transporter and has nearly nine years experience transporting animals, in addition to 13 years of experience as a zookeeper. Danhauer has worked during his career at Denver Zoo with pachyderms, and served as the lead on numerous animal transfers for Denver Zoo. Denver Zoo felt and continues to feel extremely confident with his abilities to safely transport animals.

Hazina left Denver Zoo on Thursday, Oct. 25 travelling in a 16-foot long by nearly five-foot wide and six-foot, 10-inch tall crate. Denver Zoo chose the size of the crate to protect the hippo during transport. The crate gave Hazina enough room to move forward and backward, allowed her to lie down in the sternal position, and allowed enough room for food, water and hay bedding. By design, Hazina could not turn around in the crate, which is well-established practice to prevent her from injuring herself during the trip in case of sudden shifting or movement. The USDA does not have regulations regarding the size of crates used in the transfer of hippos.

Beginning in mid-July, Zoo staff began familiarizing Hazina with the crate through daily training sessions. Through positive reinforcement, Hazina was trained to enter the crate. During her daily trainings, zoo staff monitored Hazina’s progress to ensure she was comfortable within the space when the time for the move came.

Danhauer and another driver drove Hazina in a climate controlled truck (68-70 degrees) to the Canada border, regularly checking on Hazina. Danhauer spoke with Denver Zoo throughout the trip, discussing Hazina’s behaviors and appearance. Both Danhauer and Denver Zoo staff felt her behaviors were normal.

“Hazina had been seen moving in the crate. Although she also was seen lying down during the trip, we felt this was normal based on her behavior here at Denver Zoo. We had no reason to believe that she was not doing well,” says Bowie.

Hazina saw two vets at the Canada border just three and half hours from Calgary, both as part of the customs procedure for border crossing. The U.S. veterinarian was from the USDA and the Canadian vet was with CFIA. Both visually inspected Hazina, neither finding anything wrong.

Denver Zoo chose ground transportation to move Hazina for her best interest. Although the zoo has used air transportation in the past, in this case it was not an option because neither of the air carriers Denver Zoo has utilized transports animals into Canada. Other carriers that service Calgary could not accommodate the size of the large crate. Air transportation can have inherent pitfalls including the fact that is very rare that anyone is able to check on an animal during the flight, there can be unforeseeable time spent on the tarmac and flights have loud foreign sounds that can frighten animals. Regardless of mode of transport, all animals must go through inspections when leaving and entering a country.

The decision to move Hazina was made to support hippo conservation. In the wild, hippos are listed as vulnerable by the World Conservation Union (IUCN). In zoos, hippos are overseen by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Population Management Plan (PMP), which ensures the healthy longevity of many different species in accredited institutions. Hazina’s move was made to support the captive population. She was paired to mate with Calgary Zoo’s male hippos. Denver Zoo has successfully transported 14 hippos dating back to 1966 without incident.

Family and friends invite the public to celebrate the life of Denver Zoo President/CEO Clayton Freiheit on November 16, 2007 beginning at 10 a.m. at the University of Denver’s Newman Center for the Performing Arts, 2344 E. Iliff Ave., Denver, CO. The beloved zoo leader died October 28, 2007, following a battle with cancer.

Following the public event, a private celebration will be held at Denver Zoo for family and close friends. Denver Zoo will be closed to the public on November 16 in Clayton’s memory.

In lieu of flowers or other gifts, Clayton wished that donations be made to Denver Zoo in support of the capital campaign for Asian Tropics, a 10-acre state-of-the-art exhibit for Asian species. In honor of Clayton, the 20,000 square-foot indoor elephant quarters within Asian Tropics will be known as the Clayton F. Freiheit Elephant House. Gifts to Asian Tropics are matched by Zoo Improvement Bond funds, passed by Denver voters in 1999. Donations may be sent to Denver Zoological Foundation, 2300 Steele Street, Denver, CO 80205, Attn: Development Department or email our Development Department for more information.

Clayton was a true visionary, leader and passionate animal lover, dedicating his entire life to the welfare and preservation of animals. He also worked tirelessly to ensure that all members of this community, regardless of means, were given the opportunity to see and gain an appreciation for the animals in his care. Freiheit was the driving force behind the modernization and improvements made to Denver Zoo during his 37-year tenure including the design and development of most of the animal habitats beloved by zoo guests such as Bird World; Northern Shores; Tropical Discovery; Primate Panorama; Predator Ridge and Lorikeet Adventure. Under Freiheit’s guidance, Denver Zoo created its first conservation department, significantly expanded its education programs and brought together one of the most comprehensive collections of animals in the world.

“Clayton’s contributions to the zoo world and the Denver community will reach far into the future. He was a true champion for animals and a pioneer in his field. His dedication and vision guided Denver Zoo to become the highly respected institution of today. He will be dearly missed,” said Denver Zoological Foundation Chairman, Bruce S. Wagner.

Clayton Freiheit, born January 29, 1938, in Buffalo, New York, attended the University of Buffalo and worked as an animal caretaker at the Buffalo Museum of Science. In May of 1960, he was appointed Curator of the Buffalo Zoological Gardens, the most senior position at the zoo. His letter of recommendation was written by Marlin Perkins, Director of the St. Louis Zoo at that time. At 22 years of age, he was the youngest person ever to lead a zoological park. Under his leadership, the collection and exhibits of the Buffalo Zoo nearly doubled and the zoo achieved national stature.

On October 1, 1970, Freiheit was appointed Executive Director of the Denver Zoological Gardens and in September 1998 his title was revised to President and Chief Executive Officer of the Denver Zoological Foundation to reflect a restructuring of the zoo’s operating agreement with the City 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.

Clayton Freiheit left a huge impression on the zoo community throughout the world. He served as a Member of the Board of Directors of the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums (AAZPA), now the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) from 1962-1965 and was elected as this organization’s youngest ever President from 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 1986-1989 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 from 1996-1997. He later served as an advisor to AZA’s Accreditation Commission, was a member of AZA’s Editorial Board and its Constitution & Bylaws Committee, a member of the Steering Committee of the Conservation Breeding Specialist Group (CBSG) and of the World Conservation Union’s Species Survival Commission and was also serving on the Board of Directors of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

In 1996, Clayton Freiheit was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree by the University of Denver and in September of 2004 he was awarded AZA’s highest honor, the prestigious R. Marlin Perkins Award for Professional Excellence.

In 2006, Clayton Freiheit was elected as a member of the Board of Directors of the National Elephant Center, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to the welfare and conservation of elephants, both in situ and under human care.

In 2007, AZA bestowed Clayton with the first-time ever honor of Advisor Emeritus to the AZA Accreditation Commission.

In addition to his numerous professional achievements, Clayton always made time for his two passions, traveling to see animals in the wild and animal photography. Freiheit lead several African safaris, most recently in Botswana, sharing his animal expertise with others.

“The Denver Zoo family mourns the loss of Clayton Freiheit. He was a true leader, mentor and friend to thousands of people in the zoo and aquarium profession. We have been truly blessed to work with someone of such brilliance, vision and tenacity. We will truly miss him but are dedicated to honoring his legacy by continuing his important work,” says Craig Piper, Denver Zoo Executive Vice President/COO.

Mr. Freiheit is survived by his sister, Anne of Buffalo, New York and her children; 233 Denver Zoo staff members; 62 Denver Zoo board members; 600+ Denver Zoo volunteers and nearly 3,500 animals that reside at Denver Zoo.

DENVER ZOO ELEPHANTS STOMP GIANT PUMPKINS TO ANNOUNCE BOO AT THE ZOO, OCTOBER 27 & 28! - Denver Zoo Halloween Event Offers Fun, Safe Trick-or-Treating with Tips to Save the Planet!

Rocky Mountain Giant Vegetable Growers & ColoradoPumpkins.com donated two enormous pumpkins, weighing approximately 660 pounds and 425 pounds each, to Denver Zoo for resident elephants Mimi and Dolly to enjoy! This morning the elephants stomped them open to get to the yummy treats inside and eat some delicious pumpkin chunks! The pumpkins come just in time for the zoo to invite visitors to Boo at the Zoo and encourage residents to have a green Halloween.

Denver Zoo’s annual Boo at the Zoo on October 27 and 28, from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., will not only be a fun, safe and affordable trick-or-treating experience for the whole family, but also a green event full of tips on how to save the planet! This year’s theme, “Be a Zooper hero for the planet,” invites children of all ages to come dressed as their favorite super hero and learn about how they can help the environment.

Children that bring their own reusable trick-or-treat bags, use public transportation to Boo at the Zoo or donate used cell phones and ink cartridges can enter to win a zooclusive prize – a zoo membership or behind-the-scenes tour.

Denver Zoo will be Secret Headquarters to several well-known, heroes like Spiderman, Batman, Captain Planet, Catwoman and more! Kids can learn from these larger-than-life characters how they too can become Zooper Heroes for the planet, one environmentally-friendly act at a time. Boo attendees also will get a chance to get up close and even touch the amazing animals they are trying to save, like baby alligators, African millipedes, snakes and skinks.

Every time you visit Denver Zoo you help animals. Last year Denver Zoo raised more than $100,000 during the Boo at the Zoo event. These funds support Denver Zoo’s operational costs, including the care and feeding of Denver Zoo animals, on-site education and conservation programs and conservation projects worldwide.

All activities at Boo at the Zoo are free with regular zoo admission. For more information, please call (303) 376-4800 or visit www.denverzoo.org. SAVE TIME AND BUY ONLINE AT WWW.DENVERZOO.ORG. Online tickets are on sale now! Discounted group sales tickets for groups of ten or more are also available!

RARE PRIMATE BORN AT DENVER ZOO - 12-Day-Old Red-Capped Mangabey Infant Now on Exhibit

Denver Zoo is celebrating the birth of a rare primate species, the red-capped mangabey. Experienced parents, Hank and Galina, welcomed their new offspring into the world on September 30. The gender of the infant has not yet been determined, but zookeepers have named the youngster Kanzu (can-zoo) which is Swahili for treasure. Visitors can see mother and baby on exhibit daily, weather permitting, in Denver Zoo's Primate Panorama. The new arrival is only the fourth red-capped mangabey ever to be born at Denver Zoo. There are only 27 individuals of this species in eight North American zoos today. Kanzu is the only birth of this species in North America in 2007!

Galina is again proving to be a very attentive mother to the young primate, carrying it around on her belly and nursing it throughout the day. Mom has her hands full with this active youngster, but she does get some assistance from the other two females in the troop, Gerta and Kari, who are very interested in the new baby.

The arrival of Kanzu brings Denver Zoo's mangabey troop up to a total of six individuals, including Galina's one-year-old daughter, Kipaji, born last spring. Kipaji is a very active youngster and can be seen jumping from tree to tree and playing with her father, Hank! Although she is only about a third of her adult weight, she is now completely independent from her mother.

Red-capped mangabeys are found in a very small region near the coast of sub-saharan western Africa. This species is known locally as kako because of the distinct vocalizations and alarm calls made by both males and females that sound similar to this given local name (kaa-ko! kaa-ko!).

This unique species, like its relative the baboon, has very distinct markings. While their bodies are a subtle gray-brown, these old world monkeys have very prominent facial markings including dark maroon-red hair on the top on their heads, white hair in the shape of a collar around their necks and bright white eyebrows. Mangabeys are slender, with long limbs and a long tail. Males are about 20 percent larger than females, range in weight from 24 to 31 pounds, while female weigh between 15 and 22 pounds.

Breeding takes place throughout the year and mangabey infants are born after a gestation period of approximately 175 days. The young may potentially nurse as long two years. However, nursing becomes less frequent after the first few months when the juvenile begins to supplement mother's milk with fruit and vegetation.

RARE BABY ELEPHANT SHREWS HAND RAISED AT DENVER ZOO -Visitors Can See the First Two Shrews Raised at Denver Zoo in Emerald Forrest!

Denver Zoo is successfully hand raising a pair of black-and-rufous giant elephant shrews for the first time! Denver Zoo is only one of seven zoos in North America to house this species and is one of the few zoos to successfully hand raise pups. The brothers, Potter and Weasley, were born on Aug. 28 and zookeepers have been taking care of them behind-the-scenes, but visitors can now see the duo in the Emerald Forest building sharing a habitat with a pair of titi monkeys. With the birth of these two males there are only 29 black-and-rufous elephant shrews in North American zoos.

“These animals develop so fast that at first we could literally see them change between feedings. It has been wonderful to be a part of such a team effort. The entire primate staff took part in the rearing of these little guys. It is a sweet success for this species and for Denver Zoo,” said Curator Beth Jo Schoeberl.

Zookeepers had to hand raise the young pups because their mother wasn’t showing interest in nursing them. The rigorous process began with three daily feedings of a special formula and close monitoring of their weight gain. Because in the wild pups nurse upside down zookeepers held them this way during feedings to replicate what they would do naturally. Zookeepers have since weaned the pups down to only one formula feeding in the evenings and they are eating solid food during the days while they are in their exhibit.

Entering the world at approximately 50 grams each (less than the weight of an average chicken egg) the brothers have been growing quickly thanks to the daily hand feedings from zookeepers. Weasley now weighs more than 150 grams and Potter weighs more than 200 grams! When they are fully grown the pups will weigh a little more than a pound and measure around eight inches plus an eight inch tail. Guests can see what an adult elephant shrew looks like by visiting the pups’ parents, Fernando and Bisi, who share a habitat with pale-headed Saki monkeys and golden lion tamarins down the hall from the pups in the Emerald Forest building.

Of the 15 different species of elephant shrews, the black-and-rufous giant elephant shrews are one of the largest. They are found in Southeastern Kenya and Eastern Tanzania and are classified as vulnerable due to loss of habitat. These unique animals get their name from their distinct coloring of black bodies and iridescent maroon or rufous necks and heads. They are called elephant shrews because of their long flexible noses that they use to root around the ground for small insects. These elephant shrews are part of only three percent of mammals that form exclusive breeding pairs between one male and one female, as a opposed to one male, multi-female breeding groups. These Shrews normally give birth to two offspring that are born hairless and with their eyes closed. The pups’ eyes open at around ten days of age.

ZEBRA BORN AT DENVER ZOO FOR FIRST TIME IN TEN YEARS! - Visitors Can See The First -Time Mother and Five-Day-Old Foal In the South Zebra Yard

Denver Zoo is celebrating the first birth of a critically endangered Grevy’s zebra in more than 10 years. Born to mother, Lindsay and father, Punda Milia, on Saturday, Sept. 22 at 1:45 p.m. the new arrival, a playful male named Keyo, can be seen outside in the southern zebra yard, weather permitting.

Keyo got off to a quick start by standing within an hour after being born. This is the first foal for Lindsay and she is already proving to be an excellent mother, keeping a watchful eye over the young colt. Keyo is very playful and often gallops around, exploring his outdoor yard.

There are three different species of zebra; plains or common zebra, mountain zebra and Grevy’s zebra. Grevy’s zebras are critically endangered with less than two thousand left in the wild due to loss of habitat, competition with livestock and poaching. As the largest wild equine species, Grevy’s can be distinguished from other zebras by their longer legs, more narrow stripes, white, stripeless underbelly and large rounded ears. Grevy’s zebras are only found in northern Kenya and south eastern Ethiopia.

Denver Zoo is dedicated to saving Grevy’s zebras through conservation in the wild and on zoo grounds. Keyo is the result of a breeding recommendation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan, which ensures the genetic diversity of select species. In the wild, Denver Zoo helped save Grevy’s zebras by providing life-saving vaccines during an anthrax epidemic. Denver Zoo also funds a post doctoral researcher that’s working on Grevy’s zebra conservation research in the Samburu region of Kenya.

Although Keyo only weighs about 85 pounds now, when he is full grown he could weigh up to a thousand pounds and stand over five feet tall at the shoulder. The last time a Grevy’s zebra was born at Denver Zoo was in April, 1997 and the new arrival is the fourteenth zebra to be born in the zoo’s history.

Zebra foals are born after a gestation period of 13 months. Young zebras are born with brown stripes instead of black. This protective coloring helps the foal to blend in with its background and be less visible to predators. Zebra’s stripes are like human fingerprints and no two zebras have identical strip patterns.

September 13, 2007

THREATENED CINEREOUS VULTURE CHICK HAND RAISED AT DENVER ZOO -Successful Rearing of Chick a Significant Victory for the Species

Denver Zoo has successfully hand raised a cinereous vulture chick after zookeepers assisted the chick with hatching on May 14, 2007. Although the now young adult bird is behind the scenes, visitors can see its parents on the east side of Bird World. The gender of the chick is currently being determined by DNA analysis. The successful rearing of this bird by zookeepers is just one of the many ways Denver Zoo is involved in the conservation of this threatened species.

The chick began making its way out of its shell on the afternoon of May 13, by the next morning when the chick still had not hatched, the bird department staff performed what is called “an assisted hatch,” to help the chick get out of its shell before it became dehydrated or exhausted. Slowly and carefully, pieces of the shell were removed with tweezers until the chick was completely out of its shell. This slow and tedious process must be handled carefully to ensure the chick’s wellbeing.

Bird department staff chose to hand raise the weak chick in order to closely monitor and support the hatchling, maximizing its chances for survival. Using a puppet resembling the head of an adult vulture, zookeepers fed the chick until it was old enough to eat on its own. The puppet was used to prevent the chick from associating people with food. Zookeepers also wore a cloth mask during the feedings so that the young bird could not see their faces, preventing the chick from imprinting on any of the people taking care of it. These measures were taken to ensure that once the chick grew up it would be able to bond with other adult vultures, which it has already begun to do successfully.

Once it was strong enough to eat on its own, at about seven weeks old, the chick was moved into an outdoor enclosure within visual and auditory proximity to adult vultures. This helps the young bird learn how to eat, vocalize and behave like a cinereous vulture.

The chick, who weighed less than a quarter of a pound when it hatched, now weighs more than 16 pounds and has almost reached its adult weight. Although the chick has its adult feathers and is almost full grown, it still vocalizes like a young bird. As the chick matures, its features will lighten and turn from their current deep brown color into a lighter brown, like its parents.

Denver Zoo is dedicated to the conservation of this species that is near threatened in the wild by illegal hunting, poisoning and habitat loss. It is estimated that only 7,000-10,000 pairs of cinereous vultures remain in the wild today. Zoo staff is involved in conservation projects for this species both in the wild and at the zoo. Denver Zoo is supporting a project in Mongolia that began in 2003 to study how successfully these birds are reproducing as well as tagging and tracking birds in the area. Results of this project will help to develop a conservation management plan for the species in Mongolia. Bird department staff are also working on an artificial insemination project with selected cinereous vultures that live at Denver Zoo.

Cinereous vultures, also known as Eurasian black vultures, are found across southern Europe through Asia, with one of the population’s last remaining strongholds located in Mongolia. These huge birds have a wingspan of between eight and ten feet and a weigh more than 20 pounds, making them one of the world's heaviest flying birds and largest of the old world vultures. Cinereous vultures can fly at very high altitudes and have even been seen on Mount Everest as high as 23,000 feet!

NEW GIRAFFE BABY SPOTTED AT DENVER ZOO ON FIRST DAY OUTSIDE! - Visitors Caught Glimpse of birth on August 31

Several Denver Zoo visitors witnessed the beginning stages of a giraffe birth on Friday, Aug. 31, when Masika, a female reticulated giraffe, went into labor while in the outside habitat. Masika finished in the privacy of the Giraffe House where she gave birth to a healthy six-foot-one, 165-pound male giraffe, named Kang. Mother and calf have been spending quiet time in the Giraffe House since his birth, but today Kang had his first chance to explore the outdoor yard. The six day-old calf can now be seen on exhibit.

Kang is exploring the giraffe yard under mother’s watchful eye and has been getting acquainted with his father, Dikembe and his aunts, Janie and Heshimu. Kang is the fifth calf born to Masika and Dikembe.

Giraffes are born after a 15-month gestation period. The calf will nurse on his mother’s milk for approximately six 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. An adult female is between 1,540 to 2,600 pounds and an adult male ranges from 2,420 to 4,215 pounds. Like human fingerprints, the markings of a giraffe’s coat are unique to each individual. Reticulated giraffes are native to the dry savannahs and open woodlands of sub-Saharan Africa.

August 23, 2007

ONE OF TWO GORILLA TROOPS AT DENVER ZOO TO RETURN TO LA ZOO -
Troop Headed Back Home To New Exhibit After Bon Voyage Party August 29 at 10 a.m.

Guests only have a short time to visit one of the two troops of western lowland gorillas at Denver Zoo before they return home to Los Angeles Zoo. The troop came to Denver Zoo in April, 2003 and has been staying in Colorado while their new exhibit in California was being built. Now that their new exhibit, Campo Gorilla Reserve, is finished the troop is preparing to head home, but not before they are sent off with a wild bon voyage party on Wednesday, August 29 at 10 a.m. where they will receive yummy treats including jello and popsicles. Going away cards from other Denver Zoo residents will be on display during the event. The public is invited to attend the event.

Two troops of gorillas currently reside at Denver Zoo and rotate use of the spacious one-acre outdoor yard and the large indoor dayroom. The troop that will be retuning to Los Angeles includes 20-year-old male, Kelly; 31-year-old female, Evelyn; 23-year-old female, Rapunzel and her two-year-old daughter, Tinga who was born at Denver Zoo. The departing gorillas will be moving into a state-of-the art new exhibit, called Campo Gorilla Reserve that will open to the public in November. The new exhibit features innovative behavioral enrichment devices and extensive use of indigenous trees, plants, and other native species.

“The move is bittersweet. We have enjoyed caring for these gorillas for last four years. However the time has come for them to return to Los Angeles Zoo to live in their brand new exhibit and get reacquainted with their keepers,” says Area Supervisor of Primates Ronda Schwetz.

The gorillas at Denver Zoo know several behaviors that zookeepers work on with them regularly to stimulate their minds and help them to cooperate in their own care. The gorillas know behaviors such as “shoulder” where the animal will press their shoulder against the mesh to allow veterinarians to give an injection or “tongue” where they stick out their tongue to allow staff to examine for any cuts or injuries. Positive reinforcement in the form of praise and a favorite snack is provided when the behaviors are given by the animals.

In addition to these routine behaviors, one of the gorillas heading back to Los Angeles Zoo, Evelyn, has been spending a lot of time painting! Zookeepers say Evelyn seems to really enjoy painting and has already created several works of art. Painting is a mentally stimulating activity for Evelyn that has proved to be enjoyable for both her and the zookeepers working with her.

After the four gorillas return to Los Angeles in mid-September, visitors will still be able to see Denver Zoo’s five remaining gorillas, 20-year-old male, Jim; 30-year old female, Bassa; 20-year-old female Angel; 29-year-old female, Jo Ray K; and her three-year-old son, Jabali, who was born at Denver Zoo on May 29, 2004.

WHO’S WHO
Denver Zoo’s Resident Gorilla Troop
Jim – Male, father of Jabali. Jim was born August 1, 1987 at Los Angeles Zoo and came to Denver
in April, 2003.
JoRayK – Female born on November 2, 1977 at Lincoln Park Zoo. Came to Denver in April, 1996.
Jabali – Male, born to JoRayK and Jim on May 29, 2004 at Denver Zoo.
Bassa – Born July, 1977 at Lincoln Park Zoo. Came to Denver Zoo with JoRayK in April, 1996.
Angel – Born July 31, 1987 at Los Angeles Zoo, came to Denver Zoo in March, 2003.

Gorilla Troop Visiting from Los Angeles Zoo
Kelly – Male born April 11, 1987 at Los Angeles Zoo came to Denver Zoo with other LA Zoo gorillas while the zoo finishes a new gorilla habitat for this troop. Father of Tinga and Tulivu.
Rapunzel – Female born on February 20, 1984. Mother of Tinga and Tulivu.
Evelyn - Female born on March 7, 1976 at Los Angeles Zoo.
Tinga – Born May 24, 2005 to Rapunzel and Kelly. Is the second offspring to the pair.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
Other Famous Gorilla’s With Denver Zoo Ties
Tulivu – First offspring born May 2, 2004 to Rapunzel & Kelly. Was hand-raised by Denver Zoo staff. Now lives at Albuquerque Biological Park.
Cenzoo – Male, born to JoRayK and Koundu (see below) on Feb. 2, 1996 at Lincoln Park Zoo. Cenzoo came to Denver with his parents to be the first gorilla residents of Primate Panorama. A book was written about the gorilla. Moved to Busch Gardens in March of 2003 and fathered a baby gorilla in Tampa when he was just 9-years-old.
Koundu – Father of Cenzoo moved to Denver with his son in 1996. Moved to Busch Gardens with Cenzoo in March 2003.

August 16, 2007

ENDANGERED GOLDEN LION TAMARIN TWINS BORN AT DENVER ZOO - Visitors Can See The Tiny Newborns On Exhibit With Parents In Emerald Forest

Denver Zoo is celebrating the birth of two endangered golden lion tamarins, born to first-time parents, Rosie and Simao (Su-mayo) on July 25. This is the first birth of this small primate species at Denver Zoo since 2001. Guests can see the family in the Emerald Forest exhibit in Denver Zoo’s Primate Panorama.

Both newborns weigh less than 100 grams, the equivalent weight of an average kiwi fruit.The sex of the infants has not yet been determined, but zookeepers say that both babies appear to be strong and healthy. Rose and Simao have been taking excellent care of the two new arrivals and are proving to be wonderful parents. As is common for this species, both mother and father have been taking turns carrying the two infants.

Golden lion tamarins are native to the coastal forests of Brazil and are classified as endangered as there are only an estimated 1,000 individuals remaining in the wild. Most of the wild population is confined to the Reserva Biologica de Poco das Antas, a protected area in Rio de Janeiro. Only two percent of this species’ original range remains and the existing habitat has been severely fragmented by logging and agriculture, which has led to isolated populations and inbreeding.

By 1980 there were more golden lion tamarins in captivity than in the wild, so re-introduction of captive-bred animals into Brazil began in 1984. Golden lion tamarins were classified as critically endangered until 2000, when the efforts of the re-introduction program began to show an increased population. The species has now been downgraded to endangered as a result of nearly 30 years of conservation efforts. More than 150 captive bred golden lion tamarins are now living in the wild, but the species remains in peril, due primarily to habitat destruction.

As their name suggests, these primates bare some resemblance to lions, with their golden coats, long tails and the longer, darker hair around the face creating a mane. Despite some similarities in appearance these primates are much smaller than the king of the jungle, weighing on average only between 400 – 800 grams (0.88 – 1.76 pounds). Gestation lasts for 126-130 days, usually ending in twin births. The young tamarins are weaned after just 90 days.

August 2, 2007

DENVER ZOO REVIEWS OSHA DOCUMENT ON JAGUAR ACCIDENT - Citation Comes After Denver Police Department Clears Zoo of Wrongdoing and Zoo Investigation Finds Human Error to Blame for the Accident

Today Denver Zoo received the Occupational Safety & Health Administration’s preliminary citation related to the accidental death of a zookeeper and is currently reviewing the document. At this time, Denver Zoo will not be granting interviews.

“We welcome the opportunity to partner with OSHA to strengthen our safety program,” says Denver Zoo’s Executive Vice President/COO Craig Piper.

The Denver Police Department cleared the zoo of any wrongdoing in their investigation. The zoo conducted its own thorough, four-month investigation which concluded that human error was to blame for the accident.

In its investigation, the zoo concluded that on February 24 at approximately 11:30 a.m., Zookeeper Ashlee Pfaff, while working inside a contained keeper service area of the Feline Building, unlocked and opened the door to the jaguar exhibit while a male jaguar was within feet of the door. The tragedy occurred within a secure area and at no time was the public in any danger.

According to zoo regulations, this experienced zookeeper underwent extensive safety training for this area, shadowing veteran keepers and attending mandatory safety meetings.

In the zoo’s investigation Pfaff was found to have violated two safety procedures:

The zoo’s investigation consisted of extensive interviews with staff, emergency responders and an eyewitness; numerous walk-throughs and testing of possible scenarios; lock, door and mechanism testing; reviews of detail reports including daily keeper logs, safety meeting minutes and training documents.

July 26, 2007

WANT TO SEE A CAIMAN? SKIP LOVELAND & HEAD TO DENVER ZOO
Visitors Can See These Large, Brightly-Colored Caiman Lizards For First Time at Denver Zoo

Denver Zoo’s newest additions, three caiman lizards, are on exhibit at Denver Zoo for the first time! Visitors can see the colorful lizards in the Tropical Discovery building, swimming in their pool or basking on the branches overhanging the water.

Loveland may have a Cayman alligator, but we definitely have caiman lizards. You’re guaranteed to see them at Denver Zoo. “These are one of my favorite species of reptiles. I have been wanted to have them here at Denver Zoo for a while now, and I am so excited that I now get to work with such an amazing species,” says Zookeeper Tim Trout.

Caiman lizards are known for their extremely powerful jaws that they use to crack open the shells of snails, crawfish and large insects. Their jaws are so strong that they can crack open, in seconds, hard snail shells that can resist the jaws of various other predators!

The name “caiman” comes from their appearance, which from the neck-down resembles the caiman alligators of South America. These colorful lizards have green bodies and red-orange heads and can grow up to four feet in length and weigh up to six pounds.

Native to South America, caiman lizards live primarily in low swamps and flooded forests, often resting on roots or branches hanging over the water. If disturbed or threatened, they drop into the water and swim away. These lizards have flattened tails that help them to swim quickly through the water. The whip-like tail is also used for defense, delivering a powerful blow to any potential predator. Heavily hunted for the reptile leather trade, hundreds of thousands of these lizards are killed each year for their skin.

July 17, 2007

DENVER ZOO’S FIRST TRUMPETER SWAN HATCHLINGS WILL BE RELEASED INTO WILD - Visitors Can See The Young Swans On Exhibit at Denver Zoo

Denver Zoo’s first trumpeter swan hatchlings will soon be headed to Iowa to be reintroduced to the wild. Once fully-grown, the two young swans, called cygnets (sig-nets), will join other wild populations in their native Iowa habitat through the Trumpeter Swan Restoration Project. One of the cygnets, a male, hatched on June 11 and the other, a female, hatched on June 12. Visitors can see the cygnets with their parents in the pond between the Pioneer Train and the flamingos until their departure, which is expected in October.

“We are fortunate to participate in such a successful project in support of our conservation mission. Because these birds are unrelated to the other birds in the wild population of Iowa, their genetics are very valuable,” says Denver Zoo Curator of Birds John Azua.

“Iowa has been able to release the largest population of trumpeter swans of any state and we wouldn’t have been able to achieve this great success without the support of partners like Denver Zoo,” says Ron Andrews, Trumpeter Swan Restoration Coordinator with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

The Iowa Department of National Resources has been a part of the Trumpeter Swan Restoration Project since 1995, during which time they have released more than 900 swans. Other states involved in reintroduction programs include Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, South Dakota, and Ohio.

Trumpeter swans originally inhabited wetlands throughout North America from Illinois to Alaska. As a result of extensive hunting and habitat loss, by the 1930s only 69 trumpeter swans remained in the lower 48 states, living in the remote Red Rock Lakes area in southwestern Montana.

Trumpeter swans were first given nationwide protection in 1918 when the United States, Mexico and Canada signed the International Migratory Bird Treaty. Due largely to the conservation work of zoos, many states, and other private partners and the Trumpeter Swan Restoration Project, today there are about 16,000 wild trumpeter swans and the species is no longer considered in danger of extinction.

Trumpeter swans, named for their distinct trumpet-like call, are the largest North American bird, and are on average the largest waterfowl species on earth. With a wing span of more than seven feet, these birds stand approximately four feet tall and weigh between 21 and 30 pounds, with some males reaching almost 40 pounds. Trumpeter swans often mate for life, and both parents sit on the eggs during the incubation process. The young are able to swim within two days and can usually feed themselves within two weeks.

July 5, 2007

DENVER ZOO SNOW LEOPARD CUB VENTURES OUTSIDE - Endangered Cub Can Now Be Seen In Outdoor Habitat

Visitors can now see a rare snow leopard cub as he develops at Denver Zoo. This is the zoo’s eleventh birth of an endangered snow leopard since 1950. Born on April 25 to mother, Natasha, and father, Suba, the young cub has been behind the scenes with mom and is now spending some time exploring his outdoor habitat.

The male cub, named Robbie, is the second litter for parents Natasha and Suba. Natasha gave birth to a pair of cubs in 2005, and is again proving to be a wonderful mother. Robbie is only the second cub to be born in an AZA-accredited institution in 2007. Mother and cub have just been given access to their outdoor exhibit and while Robbie is getting used to his new surroundings the pair can be seen outdoors at the Feline Building in the mornings from approximately 9:30 – 11 a.m. As he gets more acclimated to the outdoor exhibit, mother and cub will be spending more time outdoors.

At birth snow leopard cubs weigh about a pound and are approximately a foot long. This small size doesn’t last long, as the cubs grow very rapidly. Full-grown snow leopards range in weight from 60 to 120 pounds. These beautiful cats have smoky gray fur with a tinge of yellow on the edges and dark gray rosette markings on the upper body resulting in a distinct leopard pattern.

Snow leopards are an endangered species native to the mountain ranges of central and southern Asia. The snow leopard's wild population size is estimated to be less than 2,500 mature breeding individuals, with a declining trend due to habitat loss and hunting.

Download a free background image of Robbie below!

June 28, 2007

NEW DIGITAL RADIOGRAPHY MACHINE AT DENVER ZOO MAKES X-RAYS LIGHTENING FAST - Limited Number Of Zoos In Country Have This Advanced Equipment

A new state-of-the-art digital radiography machine is enhancing Denver Zoo veterinary staff’s diagnostic abilities in caring for the zoo’s nearly 3,500 animals. The new equipment, which provides images in seconds, replaces the previous x-ray machine that used film and required more time-consuming image developing. Denver Zoo is one of only a limited number of zoological institutions in the country to have this advanced equipment.

“This system helps us provide even better care for our animals by improving our ability to make high-quality diagnoses. We are able to take more x-rays faster and we are seeing things with a higher level of detail than we’ve ever seen on conventional radiography,” says Denver Zoo Senior Veterinarian David Kenny.

The new digital radiography equipment, worth more than $127,000, offers several advantages for veterinary staff. X-rays can be taken much faster, making the procedure less stressful for the animals. The equipment produces higher-quality which images allow for more accurate diagnoses. In addition, the speed of the equipment allows more x-rays to be taken to bolster animal records. The cost of film and processing is eliminated with the new digital equipment.

Images taken with the new equipment are available in less than four seconds, verses minutes with traditional x-ray, allowing less time between images if they need to be re-taken. Because there are less re-takes, there is less exposure to x-rays for staff and animals. The expedited process is ideal for the animals because it requires them to spend less time in the exam room.

Because the equipment is so easy to use, veterinarians are now taking x-rays at almost every exam and procedure. This allows vet staff to see potential problems they may not have known existed, a luxury the old system did not allow. Additionally, because x-rays can be done so quickly, the can be used on animals that would not tolerate a longer process without anesthesia. This has resulted in veterinarians seeing things that they may not have seen before and will help provide baseline medical information on more animals.

An additional benefit of this new equipment is its portability. Unlike the old system, the new equipment can be easily taken outside the zoo’s veterinary hospital and into exhibits. This allows x-rays to be taken of larger animals that cannot be transported from their exhibit to the on-site hospital.

Already in the first two months, veterinary staff has taken approximately 400 images. Because these images are stored electronically, approximately $1,200 has been saved in film costs. The purchase of this new equipment was paid for in part with the help of generous donations to Denver Zoo’s Animal Health Fund.

DENVER ZOO CONCLUDES ZOOKEEPER FAILED TO FOLLOW SAFETY PROTOCOLS
Ashlee Pfaff Opened Door to Exhibit While Cat Was Inside

After a thorough investigation, Denver Zoo has concluded that Zookeeper Ashlee Pfaff opened the door to a jaguar exhibit while the animal was inside, resulting in her tragic death. Pfaff breeched at least two safety protocols causing the tragedy.

“We have thoroughly researched every possibility and have concluded this true tragedy resulted from human error. Our investigation shows that Ashlee did not follow established safety protocols on the day of the accident. Ashlee opened the door to the jaguar’s indoor exhibit while the animal was in it, apparently thinking she had transferred it to its outdoor habitat. Unfortunately, we cannot determine why Ashlee failed to follow established protocols that she was trained to perform and performed regularly without incident for more than one year,” says Denver Zoo Executive Vice President/COO Craig Piper.

This comes following the zoo being cleared from any wrongdoing by the Denver Police Department in their completed investigation. The zoo has been working with OSHA, USDA, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and other agencies in their independent investigations. The zoo’s investigation consisted of extensive interviews with staff, emergency responders and an eyewitness; numerous walk-throughs and testing of possible scenarios; lock, door and mechanism testing; reviews of detail reports including daily keeper logs, safety meeting minutes and training documents.

“This building has been safely worked for more than 40 years following well established protocols and an accident of this magnitude has never happened until now. Although we’ll never know exactly what happened or why it happened, we do not believe our safety procedures are at fault,” says Denver Zoo Spokesperson Ana Bowie.

The zoo has concluded in its investigation that on February 24 at approximately 11:30 a.m., Zookeeper Ashlee Pfaff, while working inside a contained keeper service area of the Feline Building, unlocked and opened the door to the jaguar exhibit while a male jaguar was within feet of the door. The tragedy occurred within a secure area and at no time was the public in any danger.

Staff, according to established emergency protocols, immediately responded to the exhibit with weapons. Although staff tried to use a fire extinguisher to keep the jaguar away from the injured keeper and those trying to assist her, the jaguar approached and was shot in an attempt to protect keepers and emergency responders. Staff could not use a tranquilizer to sedate the animal during the rescue attempt as it would have taken at least three to five minutes to take effect. The first priority was to try and save the life of the keeper and protect those trying to save her. The injured zookeeper was transported to Denver Health Medical Center via ambulance and died at approximately 1 p.m. at the hospital.

Denver Zoo’s top priority is the safety and well-being of our guests, employees and animals. According to zoo regulations, this zookeeper underwent the regular safety training for this area, shadowing veteran keepers and attending mandatory safety meetings.

“This has been the worst tragedy within our zoo’s history. As we grieve the loss of a valued colleague our hearts go out to Ashlee’s family and friends. We are dedicated to preserving Ashlee’s memory and will continue to strive for excellence in what we do. Through this tragedy we have been given a renewed spirit and deep sense of appreciation for our zoo family. We remain steadfast in our efforts to preserve precious wildlife and the safety of their caregivers,” says Piper.

June 14, 2007

DENVER ZOO’S FIRST HATCHING OF ANDEAN CONDOR CHICK
Significant Hatchling for Endangered Species is Thriving Under Parents’ Care

Denver Zoo’s first Andean condor chick, a male, hatched on May 13. Andean condors are endangered in the wild and only one other chick has hatched in the past year in zoos throughout the world. First-time parents, Evita and Andy, took turns incubating the egg for 61 days and continue to take excellent care of their young chick. The parents and hatchling can be seen on exhibit in the open-air aviary just east of Lorikeet Adventure.

Both parents have been very attentive to the new hatchling. Thanks to their regular feedings; he has already grown from his hatch weight of less than half a pound to his current weight of almost five pounds! Zookeepers were able to identify the chick as a male because of the flap of skin on its head, called a comb that is uniquely characteristic to the males of this species. The chick still has his fuzzy down feathers that he will keep until he is approximately six months old, when his adult feathers will start to come in.

Native to the Andes Mountains of South America, Andean condors once came dangerously close to extinction due in part to aggressive hunting. They were placed on the Endangered Species list in 1973, but have since been making a dramatic comeback, thanks in part to the efforts of zoos’ breeding programs and conservation work. There are estimated to be only a few thousand of these birds remaining in the wild.

Andean condors are one of the largest flying birds; adults can weigh over 30 pounds, stand over four feet tall and have a wingspan of up to 11 feet! The Andean condor is a national symbol of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. It plays an important role in the folklore and mythology of the South American Andean regions, similar to the role the bald eagle plays in North America. These impressive birds may live for 50 years or more, and mate for life.

June 6, 2007

DENVER POLICE DEPARTMENT CLEARS ZOO OF KEEPER DEATH
Zoo Continues To Cooperate With OSHA & USDA Investigations

The Denver Police Department released the results of its investigation into the death of zookeeper, Ashlee Pfaff on February 24, and has cleared Denver Zoo of any wrongdoing.

“Denver Police Department has completed its investigation into the death of Ashlee Pfaff, and we have found that the case has been exceptionally cleared, which means we found no criminal wrongdoing in this matter,” commented Sonny Jackson, Public Information Officer for Denver Police Department.

Denver Zoo continues to work with OSHA, USDA and other agencies in the ongoing investigation of the death of Ashlee Pfaff, who died February 24 from injuries sustained from a jaguar attack.

“Denver Zoo is still actively investigating the accident and continues to fully cooperate with OSHA, USDA and other agencies. While Denver Zoo’s internal investigation continues, it would be premature for us to share our findings,” says Denver Zoo Executive Vice President/COO Craig Piper.

At approximately 11:30 a.m. February 24, a zookeeper was attacked by a male jaguar at Denver Zoo inside a contained keeper service area inside the Feline Building. At no time was the public in any danger.

Staff, according to established emergency protocols, immediately responded to the exhibit with weapons. Although staff tried to use a fire extinguisher to keep the jaguar away from the injured keeper and those trying to assist her, the jaguar approached and was shot in an attempt to protect keepers and emergency responders. Staff could not use a tranquilizer to sedate the animal as it would have taken at least three to five minutes to take effect. The first priority was to try and save the life of the keeper and protect those trying to save her. The injured zookeeper was transported to Denver Health via ambulance and died at approximately 1 p.m. at the hospital.

Denver Zoo staff made every attempt to save the jaguar. After the jaguar was shot, the zoo's veterinarian administered a tranquilizer in order to safely transport the animal to the zoo’s veterinary hospital for medical assessment. It was determined the jaguar was mortally wounded and could not be saved. At that point the zoo's veterinarian humanely euthanized the animal. Due to the animal’s low blood pressure, the zoo’s veterinarian was unable access a vein to administer the euthanasia solution. A common procedure called a “cut-down”, an incision through the skin, was then used to expose the jugular vein into which the solution was injected.

"I examined the jaguar thoroughly. It would not have been able to survive. The only humane option was to euthanize the animal," recounted Denver Zoo Senior Veterinarian, David Kenny. As an institution dedicated to animal conservation, the decision the humanely euthanize the animal was a last resort.

Denver Zoo learned late Friday that tissue samples from a deceased eight year-old hooded capuchin monkey tested positive for plague at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) laboratory. The monkey seemed slightly lethargic during the evening of the 15th and was found deceased by a zookeeper on the morning of the 16th. A necropsy was conducted by Denver Zoo veterinarians and tissue samples submitted to CDPHE which confirmed plague.

Although it will be difficult to determine whether the monkey contracted the disease from infected fleas or from ingesting the remains of an infected squirrel, based upon common behavior for this species, Denver Zoo suspects the monkey contracted the disease through ingestion. None of the 17 other members of the capuchin troop have exhibited signs of illness but as a precautionary measure antibiotics are being administered and the monkeys have been moved to their enclosed exhibits where they can be observed more closely. No other samples from the Denver Zoo collection have been submitted for testing nor are any other animals exhibiting signs of illness.

“Denver Zoo remains in regular contact with CDPHE,” stated Senior Veterinarian Dave Kenny, “and although the risk of contracting plague to people and animals in the area is extremely low, we are continuing to emphasize communication with visitors to prevent exposure to squirrels and rabbits. While this runs it course, we will maintain our diligence and continue to work to find ways to prevent the animals from being exposed to the plague.” Denver Zoo has trained staff how to safely handle rodent and rabbit carcasses and is asking visitors who encounter a dead rodent or rabbit to inform a staff person immediately and not approach the animal.

“This is an unfortunate, but not unexpected development” said John Pape, an epidemiologist with CDPHE. “There are some animal species in the zoo collection, including monkeys, that could be susceptible to plague. Infected squirrels and a rabbit have been reported in the area and can have contact with the zoo animals.” He concurred that the monkey was probably infected from ingesting the remains of a sick squirrel.

“This does not change our assessment that the risk of plague exposure is extremely low for City Park and Denver Zoo visitors,” explained Pape. Pape continues to recommend avoiding direct contact with dead animals, not feeding squirrels, keeping pets away from squirrels and rabbits, and treat pets for fleas. Squirrels, other rodents and rabbits found dead should be reported to the CO-HELP hotline at 1-877-462-2911.

Hooded capuchin monkeys weigh between six and ten pounds and are a small primate native to South America. Often noted for their curiosity and tree-swinging antics, their population numbers in the wild are stable but they continue to be threatened by encroachment and habitat destruction.

March 27, 2007

NEW AT DENVER ZOO: FROSTY THE SNOW BEAR - New Male Polar Bear, Frosty, Paired with Resident Female, Voda

A twenty-two-year-old male polar bear, named Frosty, arrived at Denver Zoo in December and is now on public exhibit with his new mate, resident female, Voda. Frosty, comes to Denver Zoo from Tulsa Zoo on a breeding loan sanctioned by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan (SSP). Frosty has acclimated well to his new surroundings and he and Voda can be seen on exhibit daily in Denver Zoo’s Northern Shores.

After a standard quarantine period, keepers introduced Frosty to his new mate, Denver Zoo’s veteran polar bear mother, Voda. Zoo keepers say the pair is getting along great and Frosty is fitting in wonderfully at Denver Zoo. Frosty has even mastered the art of catching fish tossed to him by zookeepers! Frosty has not yet sired any cubs, but Denver Zoo staff is hopefully that by paring him with a Voda his valuable genes will be passed on.

Native to the arctic tundra, polar bears rely almost entirely on the marine sea ice environment for their survival. Global climate changes are a substantial threat to the habitat of polar bears and sea ice has already declined considerably over the past half century. With the increasing threats to the polar bears’ natural habitats the successful breeding of bears in captivity is becoming even more crucial to the survival of the species.

March 21, 2007

SPRING HAS SPRUNG AT DENVER ZOO - Several Animals Move Out for the Season – Including Lemurs and Bat-eared Foxes

On the first full day of spring, several Denver Zoo residents are springing into the new season by moving outdoors. Denver Zoo’s lemurs and bat-eared foxes have just recently moved from their indoor winter habitats outside for the season and guests can now see them on exhibit enjoying there summer digs.

Zookeepers recently filled the water moat around Lemur Island so the seven ring-tailed lemurs and single white-collared brown lemur can be out on the island during the days. These primates have been enjoying being outdoors, and can be seen climbing through the trees and sunning themselves. Lemurs are both arboreal and terrestrial, meaning they spend time both in the trees and on the ground. Lemurs are found only on the island of Madagascar and are threatened by habitat destruction and therefore listed as vulnerable by the IUCN Red List.

Additionally, Denver Zoo’s two resident bat-eared foxes, male, Vinning and female, Hasstig, can now be seen in their outdoor exhibit on the east side of the zoo near the camels. Native to the African savanna, these foxes have adapted much smaller teeth than other members of the fox family to accommodate their primarily insectivorous diet which consists of eight percent insects. Visitors can see these foxes, as well as the lemurs, outside daily, weather permitting.

Another sign of spring at Denver Zoo is the upcoming hour change. Beginning April 1, zoo hours will be extended to 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., opening an hour earlier and staying open an hour later.

March 13, 2007

GIANT PYTHON WIEGHED IN PREPERATION FOR ST. PATRICK’S DAY SERPENT FESTIVAL AT DENVER ZOO - Enjoy Activities at Denver Zoo, March 17 – 18, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Denver Zoo’s resident female reticulated python was recently weighed and measured in preparation for the upcoming slithery festivities at St. Patrick’s Day Serpent Festival, this weekend, March 17 & 18, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. It took six zookeepers to carry the snake from her exhibit to the scale and weigh her. After stretching her out to see how long she was, zookeepers carefully placed her in a large container which was then weighed on the scale. The nine-year-old snake weighed in at 82 pounds and measured almost 16 feet in length.
Visitors will be able to see this heavy-weight reptilian, along with 56 other snake species totaling more than 150 individual slithering residents, at Denver Zoo’s St. Patrick’s Day Serpent Festival. Legend tells the tale of St. Patrick driving all of the snakes out of Ireland and into the sea, but this St. Patrick’s Day Denver Zoo guests can learn all about this highly-misunderstood animal and why people shouldn’t fear these amazing creatures.

February 28, 2007

DENVER ZOO TO CLOSE MARCH 1 IN MEMORY OF ZOOKEEPER ASHLEE PFAFF - Zoo Staff to Hold Private Memorial on Grounds

Denver Zoo will be closed March 1 in memory of Ashlee Pfaff, the zookeeper who died after being attacked by a jaguar. Staff has planned a private memorial for Ashlee Pfaff on zoo grounds during the closure. The zoo will reopen March 2 at 10 a.m. for regular business hours.

“This is probably the most difficult time for the Denver Zoo family in our 111-year history. I’m very proud of our staff for handling themselves in such a professional manner. They are dedicated to caring for our animals, just as Ashlee was. Now, we need time together to mourn as a family. We appreciate everyone’s understanding for the need for privacy during this time of deep sorrow,” said Denver Zoo President/CEO Clayton Freiheit.

Only zoo staff members will be participating in the memorial. No cameras, reporters or interviews will be allowed on property during the day. The memorial will be in a private conference room and will not be visible from outside zoo gates.

Denver Zoo continues to work with the Denver Police Department, the USDA, OSHA and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums on its ongoing investigation. No new information has been concluded at this time. The Feline Building will remain closed indefinitely, as the investigation continues.

Grief counselors remain available for staff daily and will be on grounds for the memorial.

February 26, 2007

DENVER ZOO CONTINUES TO INVESTIGATE ZOOKEEPER DEATH

Denver Zoo continues its investigation of the death of Ashlee Pfaff, a zookeeper that died February 24 after being attacked by a male jaguar. Denver Zoo is currently working with the Denver Police Department, the USDA, OSHA and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to fully investigate what happened.

“What happened is a horrible tragedy and we are doing everything we can to get to the bottom of what happened. We want to do everything possible to make sure nothing like this happens again,” says Denver Zoo Executive VP/COO Craig Piper.

Although the investigation is still underway as to what caused the incident, Denver Zoo has found no faulty doors, locks or gates in the exhibit. The zoo has also concluded that the zoo’s emergency response teams followed all protocols in their efforts to try and save Ashlee.

“I believe our staff did everything in their power to save Ashlee without harming the jaguar,” says VP for Biological Programs, Dr. Lynn Kramer. “We regularly practice for these types of situations, hoping we’ll never have to actually respond to an emergency.”

Denver Zoo conducts “code red” drills a minimum of four times per year. The drills prepare staff to respond to an animal that is potentially dangerous that is in a situation where it could harm a person. Denver Zoo is considered a model for their proactive efforts to train staff on these procedures.

Denver Zoo’s top priority is the safety and well-being of our guests, employees and animals. According to zoo regulations, Ashlee Pfaff underwent the regular safety training for this area, shadowing veteran keepers and attending mandatory safety meetings. She also underwent safety training specific to the Feline Building she was working in when the accident occurred. This included proper safety considerations for the area, shifting and transfer protocols, and exhibit rules and regulations. Denver Zoo’s policy does not allow staff to be in any large cat’s exhibit with the animal present.

The incident occurred within the doorway of the exhibit and secure service area of the Feline Building and at no time was the public in any danger. Staff, according to emergency protocols, immediately responded to the exhibit with weapons. Although staff tried to use a fire extinguisher to keep the jaguar away from the injured keeper and those trying to assist her, the jaguar approached and was shot and killed to protect the keeper and those involved in the attempted rescue. Staff could not use a tranquilizer to sedate the animal as it would have taken at least three to five minutes to take effect. The first priority was to try and save the life of the keeper and protect those trying to save her. The injured zookeeper was transported to Denver Health via ambulance and died at approximately 1 p.m. at the hospital.

At this time, Denver Zoo is not releasing more information on this zookeeper out of respect to the family and loved ones.

Members from the victim’s assistance unit from the Denver Police Department were at the zoo yesterday and today to assist Denver Zoo staff and remain available for any staff members needing assistance.

The 140-pound jaguar, named Jorge, came to Denver from Santa Cruz Zoo, Bolivia, in March of 2005.

February 25, 2007

OFFICE OF THE MEDICAL EXAMINER RELEASING PRELIMINARY REPORT ON DENVER ZOOKEEPER

Although originally thought to be available on February 26, the Office of the Medical Examiner has released a preliminary report on the Denver zookeeper that died after being attacked by a jaguar. The report is available by faxing Office of the Medical Examiner, attention Raylene Smith, at 303-436-7709.

Denver Zoo and the Denver Police Department continue to investigate what happened on February 24, when a zookeeper was attacked by a male jaguar inside a contained keeper service area of the Feline Building. The incident occurred within the doorway of the exhibit and secure service area of the Feline Building and at no time was the public in any danger.

Staff, according to emergency protocols, immediately responded to the exhibit with weapons. Although staff tried to use a fire extinguisher to keep the jaguar away from the injured keeper and those trying to assist her, the jaguar approached and was shot and killed to protect the keeper and those involved in the attempted rescue. Staff could not use a tranquilizer to sedate the animal as it would have taken at least three to five minutes to take effect. The first priority was to try and save the life of the keeper and protect those trying to save her. The injured zookeeper was transported to Denver Health via ambulance and died at approximately 1 p.m. at the hospital.

“Many have expressed their condolences for the family and Denver Zoo staff and volunteers. We want the public to know how much we appreciate this support during this difficult time for us all,” said Denver Zoo President/CEO Clayton Freiheit.

At this time, Denver Zoo is not releasing more information on this zookeeper out of respect to the family and loved ones.

Members from the victim’s assistance unit from the Denver Police Department were at the zoo yesterday and today to assist Denver Zoo staff and remain available for any staff members needing assistance.

The 140-pound jaguar, named Jorge, came to Denver from Santa Cruz Zoo, Bolivia, in March of 2005. The cat is approximately six years old.

February 24, 2007

DENVER ZOO FAMILY MOURNS THE LOSS OF ZOOKEEPER

Denver Zoo is mourning the loss of a zookeeper who died after being attacked by a jaguar.

“We are deeply saddened by this loss. It is with utmost sympathy that our condolences go out to this zookeeper’s family and loved ones. This keeper was a part of our family and we too are grieving the loss of one of our own,” said Denver Zoo President/CEO Clayton Freiheit.

Denver Zoo will not be releasing the zookeeper’s name out of respect to the zookeeper’s family and loved ones. An investigation is underway and all the information that we currently have as it relates to this incident is contained within this release.

At approximately 11:30 a.m. February 24, a zookeeper was attacked by a male jaguar at Denver Zoo inside a contained keeper service area inside the Feline Building. Staff, according to emergency protocols, immediately responded to the exhibit with weapons. The jaguar approached staff trying to assist the zookeeper and it was shot and killed. The injured zookeeper was transported to Denver Health via ambulance and died at approximately 1 p.m. at the hospital.

The incident occurred within the doorway of the exhibit and secure service area of the Feline Building and at no time was the public in any danger. The zoo was closed after the incident.

Members from the victim’s assistance unit from the Denver Police Department were at the zoo today to assist Denver Zoo staff and remain available for any staff members needing assistance.

The 140-pound jaguar, named Jorge, came to Denver from Santa Cruz Zoo, Bolivia, in March of 2005. The cat is approximately six years old.

Denver Zoo plans to reopen on Sunday, February 25. However, the Feline Buildings will remain closed while the zoo’s investigation continues.

Interpretative stations at Paw Thaw will focus on animal adaptations including special paw attributes. Guests will learn what can be interpreted about a bird by the size of its feet, or how strong elephant feet are. They will also discover how anacondas can swallow prey larger than their mouths and why gorillas have to live in the tropics to survive. Visitors will be able to get nose-to-snout with some special warm-climate creatures such as alligators, hedgehogs, turtles, snakes, bearded dragons, blue-tongued skinks and giant African millipedes during animal demonstrations.

Activities will take place inside the zoo’s animal buildings including Tropical Discovery, Bird World, Emerald Forest, Great Apes Building and the Pachyderm Building. Guests can also warm up inside the Feline House, Giraffe House and Interpretative Center in Predator Ridge.

Several new animals will be on exhibit during Paw Thaw. Guests will be able to see Denver Zoo’s new female jaguar, Caipora, on exhibit in the Feline House. Inside the tropical jungle of Bird World, a juvenile yellow-breasted ground dove and a green-napped pheasant chick are on exhibit with their parents. Also in Bird World, a new flock of golden-headed manakins is on exhibit. Male manakins are very brightly colored and frequently do an impressive mating dance to attract the females. The stork has also been visiting the half-acre paradise of Tropical Discovery. Visitors can see three leopard tortoise hatchlings on display in the nursery, as well as several new and colorful fish. The black and orange Achilles tang, the red and black flame angel and the bright red fire shrimp are all now on display in Tropical Discovery.

While walking between activities inside the warm buildings, guests will also be able to see several Denver Zoo residents that enjoy the cooler weather. Polar bears, sea lions, harbor seals, arctic wolves and foxes, snow leopards, grizzly bears, Asiatic black bears, bison, reindeer, musk ox, mishmi takins, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, Dall sheep and Cape buffalo can all be seen in their outdoor exhibits, even when the weather is a bit chilly. Some people might be surprised to know that several other animals at the zoo really enjoy the milder temperatures and can also be seen outside; including zebras, tigers, camels and red pandas. If Mother Nature blesses Denver with warm weather during the event, guests will also be able see the new bongo calf, Maddie, who was born on January 21.

polarbear

February 13, 2007

VOTES ARE IN: DENVER ZOO PENGUIN NAMED "TUX" - 9,300 Voted Online for the Contest!

More than 9,000 people voted online at www.denverzoo.org to choose a new name for a Denver Zoo African penguin. Thirty-nine percent of the votes went to “Tux,” a name suggested by channel 4. Channel 9’s suggestion, Dassen, came in second with 33 percent of the votes and Shivers, channel 7’s suggestion, narrowly trailed the contest with 28 percent of the votes.

Zookeeper Travis Garrett announced Tux’s name on February 13 and then fed the birds their favorite meal, smelt, anchovies and herring! Tux now sports a yellow arm band for identification, signifying his newly-named status. Before being named, Tux was the only penguin without a colored band for identification. During the announcement zoo staff also showcased some letters and posters they received from school children who wrote the zoo supporting penguins!

The television stations participating in the naming contest made their suggestions based on hundreds of suggestions received from the public throughout January, many which were from school children. Denver Zoo also received mail from school children in Superior and Westminster, Colorado and Laramie, Wyoming. Classes suggested names for the penguin in their letters and drew posters asking visitors to refrain from throwing coins in the penguin’s pool. Denver Zoo utilized the contest to educate visitors on the dangers of throwing coins in the penguin exhibits. Penguins often eat the coins which can be fatal without veterinary intervention.

Visitors can see the newly-named penguin at the zoo’s upcoming PAW THAW event, February 17-18 & 24-25. Visitors can thaw their paws in Denver Zoo’s indoor buildings and enjoy special activities including cultural storytelling, international dancers and musicians, educational crafts and animal adaptation interpretative stations.

Zookeepers normally name all zoo animals. Denver Zoo houses two species of penguins, African and Humboldt. There have been 99 penguins hatched at Denver Zoo since the zoo began housing penguins in 1974. The young male penguin is the fourth bird hatched to father, Big Head Todd and the mother, Ruth. The pair laid this most recent egg on September 8 and the chick hatched on October 18 after a 40-day incubation period. There are 13 African penguins on exhibit just outside Bird World and 13 Humboldt penguins on exhibit just east of Bear Mountain.

polarbear

February 9, 2007

Memphis Zoo to Perform Surgery on Injured Polar Bear - Injured Bear, Cranbeary, was from Denver Zoo

Denver Zoo recently learned that surgery is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, February 10, on “Cranbeary,” a bear that was born at Denver Zoo in 2001. Cranbeary broke her femur bone on her rear right leg, February 7, 2007, falling in her exhibit.

“We were very saddened to hear about Cranbeary’s recent injury. However, we’re confident that Memphis Zoo is doing everything they can to ensure Cranbeary’s wellbeing,” says Denver Zoo Veterinarian David Kenny.

“Payton,” Memphis Zoo’s three-year-old male polar bear showed unusual aggressive behavior toward five-year-old Cranbeary. This was the first time this type of aggressive behavior had been witnessed in the year the bears have shared exhibit space. Cranbeary was in estrus at the time the injury occurred and Memphis Zoo keepers believe Payton, an inexperienced young bear, was unsure how to react to Cranbeary’s breeding signals.

As part of a Species Survival Plan recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Denver Zoo moved Cranbeary to Memphis Zoo in early January of 2006. Cranbeary, who was on exhibit by herself at Denver Zoo, moved to Memphis Zoo’s new Northwest Passage exhibit, a three-acre exhibit for bears, sea lions and seals. Cranbeary shared the space with Payton and a female polar bear in Memphis for a year without any problems.

Born the day before Thanksgiving on Nov. 21, 2001, Cranbeary captured the hearts of many zoo visitors with her boundless energy and curiosity. An avid swimmer, Cranbeary delighted guests watching her through the underwater viewing area of her exhibit, often diving down and getting nose-to-nose through the glass.

A sixteen-month-old female Jaguar, named Caipora (Ky-pour-uh), arrived at Denver Zoo in December and is now on public exhibit. Caipora, comes to Denver Zoo from Akron Zoo on a breeding loan sanctioned by the Association of zoo’s and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan (SSP). When she is old enough she will be paired with resident male jaguar, Jorge (Hore-hay), who arrived at Denver Zoo from a zoo in Bolivia in 2005.

See Caipora, and Denver Zoo’s other residents, at Denver Zoo’s newest event, Paw Thaw from Feb.17-18, 24-25. Denver Zoo wants the public to enjoy its nearly 3,500 residents even when the weather is cooler, so guests will be able warm up with special activities in indoor buildings

during the event. A new event this year, Paw Thaw will give visitors a chance to learn more about several of the zoo’s residents who can be viewed from inside warm indoor buildings with live animal demonstration, interactive stations, crafts and entertainment.

Caipora recently moved onto exhibit after a standard quarantine period and is now getting settled into her new digs. Zookeepers say she is very curious and likes to watch her fellow feline neighbors, the tigers and servals. She will eventually be introduced to her future mate, Jorge. Caipora is significantly smaller than Jorge, weighing in at 92 pounds during her wellness exam, while Jorge weighs an estimated 140 pounds.

Jorge arrived at Santa Cruz Zoo at six months of age, after his mother was killed in the wild. Unable to fend for himself, Jorge found refuge at the zoo in Bolivia and was then transferred to Denver Zoo to provide Santa Cruz Zoo space to help other animals in need of refugee.

During chilly weather zoo keepers have been working hard to keep all the zoo’s warm-climate animals entertained in their indoor exhibits and Caipora and Jorge have, among other things, been getting minnows for enrichment. Even though Caipora has been enjoying fishing for minnows, the warmer weather has allowed her to go outside and explore her outdoor exhibit. Visitors can take advantage of the warmer temperatures and visit Caipora and Jorge on exhibit in the Feline House.

January 25, 2007

COINS REMOVED FROM DENVER ZOO PENGUIN’S STOMACH - DENVER ZOO REMINDS GUESTS NOT TO THROW COINS INTO EXHIBITS

Reminder Comes During Popular Penguin Naming Contest

Denver Zoo penguins have been keeping zoo staff busy lately. A naming contest is currently underway for an African penguin chick that hatched in October, but the nameless chick isn’t the only penguin getting extra attention from zoo staff. Recently zoo veterinary staff preformed a medical procedure on an adult Humboldt penguin to retrieve several coins from the bird’s stomach. Some visitors unfortunately mistake the two Denver Zoo penguin pools and other animal pools for wishing wells and throw coins into the water. Penguins cannot differentiate a shiny coin from the shiny scales of a fish and consequently ingest any coins that are thrown into their exhibits, which is can be extremely detrimental to the health of the birds.

Prior to a recent shipment to another zoo, an adult female Humboldt penguin underwent a wellness exam, where veterinary staff discovered that the bird had multiple coins in her stomach. A blood test showed that the bird had a dangerously high level of zinc in her system, indicating the coins were already beginning to be digested. Zoo veterinary staff decided to remove the coins using an endoscope with a small net attached to the end to “scoop” the coins out of the bird’s stomach. An endoscope is a tube-like optical instrument with an attached light that is used to see inside the body.

coins

Denver Zoo veterinarians successfully recovered 71 cents and pieces of a partially digested penny from the penguin’s stomach. Despite the inherent risks of any procedure involving anesthesia, the bird recovered fully, and the levels of zinc in her blood have since dropped to their normal levels.

Denver Zoo Associate Veterinarian, Dr. Felicia, Knightly, says “this is a common problem for penguins at Denver Zoo. Penguins cannot tell the difference between the shiny, metallic coins at the bottom of the pool and fish. Ingestion of the coins can result in zinc toxicosis, which can be fatal.” Zinc toxicosis results when the stomach begins to break down the ingested coins. Pennies are especially dangerous, because pennies produced after 1978 have zinc cores with copper coating, as opposed to the pure copper coins minted prior to 1978.

Because penguins swallowing coins is such a frequent problem, Denver Zoo bird keepers regularly check the 26 resident African and Humboldt penguins by scanning their bodies with a metal detector. Zoo staff is hoping that sharing this story will reduce the need for this veterinary procedure.

In collaboration with Denver Zoo’s penguin chick naming contest, zoo staff is reminding visitors not to throw coins into the penguin exhibits. The naming contest for the young African penguin chick that hatched on Oct. 18 is still underway and online voting for the public will run from Feb. 3-9 at www.denverzoo.org and the bird’s name will be announced on Feb. 13.

PENGUIN NAMING CONTEST
Denver Zoo and local media are flocking together to find a name for a young male African penguin and we need your help! Denver Zoo asked the local media to assist in coming up with final names for the public to vote on. Please send your suggestions to Channel 4 or email Channel 7. Then, February 3 – 9, check back at Denver Zoo’s website www.denverzoo.org to vote on the final names suggested for the penguin.

A special thank you to our sponsor Malenke|Barnhart for their web design and web support.

Thank you to our media partners KCNC, KMGH and KUSA for helping make this a community-wide effort!

More Penguin Information: The young male penguin is the fourth bird hatched to father, Big Head Todd (yep, that’s his name) and mother, Ruth. The pair laid this most recent egg on September 8 and the chick hatched on October 18 after a 40-day incubation period. The young chick and his parents are on exhibit with the rest of the flock just outside Bird World, weather permitting.

Some Like It Hot: Although most think of the frigid climate of Antarctica when it comes to penguins, not all have Happy Feet when it comes to cold weather! Denver Zoo’s penguins, which consist of Humboldt and African penguins, are both warm weather penguins. In the wild, African penguins must adapt to warm temperatures, versus the frigid climates most people associate with penguins. Therefore, African penguins in the wild are mostly crepuscular – meaning, they are most active at dawn and dusk when temperatures are more comfortable in their warm weather climate. The Humboldt penguins are also temperate animals, residing on the western coast of South America. The Humboldts are named after the Humboldt Current that runs along this bird’s habitat.

Another penguin habitat misconception is that penguins and polar bears share habitats. Polar bears are found only in the northern hemisphere and penguins are only found south of the equator. The two can only be found in close proximity to each other in advertising, Hollywood and zoos, of course!

Conservation Connection: The African penguin is listed as vulnerable by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN). In their native habitat off the southern tip of Africa, these penguins have been subjected to oil spills from tankers rounding the coastline, which have wiped out entire colonies of this species. In the past, Denver Zoo has sent staff to Cape Town, South Africa to assist with a world wide effort following the “Treasure” oilspill that affected over 40,000 penguins in 2000. Staff helped rehabilitate penguins by cleaning oil off their bodies and monitoring their health through lab and blood work. Of the penguins brought in for rehabilitation more than 95 percent were saved!

Denver Zoo takes part in many conservation efforts, including the Species Survival Plan (SSP) which helps manage captive populations of select species. The young male penguin in the naming contest was conceived by an SSP breeding recommendation. The SSP is like a matchmaking service that works to ensure the genetic diversity of key species.

Denver Zoo also has worked with other zoos in North America to help protect the breeding grounds of the Humboldt penguin along the coast of Punta San Jan, Peru from the over harvesting of the guano. Guano, or bird droppings, is harvested for soil fertilizer. Penguins burrow in guano to nest and have a much harder life as this habitat diminishes. Denver Zoo has also participated in the study of the breeding ecology of Humboldt penguins in a colony located near Algarrobo, Chile.

January 11, 2007

DENVER ZOO RECYCLES MORE THAN 3,000 CELL PHONES - Program recycles cell phones to benefit the zoo, animals and the environment

Since the founding of Denver Zoo’s Answer the Call of the Wild program in February of 2005 more than 3,000 cell phones have been recycled, resulting in more than $5,000 being donated to Denver Zoo. Denver Zoo recycled the third highest amount of cell phones of all the participating institutions during 2006, totaling 1,653! By donating old cell phones to Denver Zoo members of the community can help the zoo reach its goal of 5,000 phones being recycled by the end of the year.

By recycling old cell phones Denver Zoo is helping to minimize the demand for an ore called coltan which is used in the production of cell phones. Currently, endangered animals such as elephants, gorillas and many primates in the Congo are being killed by miners of coltan. Mining of coltan is occurring illegally in the Congo’s national parks and has brought a surplus of miners who are hunting the park’s endangered species for food and destroying their habitat.

Cell phones contain a number of hazardous substances that can have a serious impact on the environment. Donating a cell phone to the program ensures that phones will be reused or properly recycled. In return, Eco-Cell donates up to $10 for each working digital cell phone which will be used to help support the animals at Denver Zoo.

Through the program, approximately 80 percent of the phones collected are refurbished and reused by first-time, low-income users in Latin America or by select local programs such as battered women’s organizations, senior citizen groups and emergency 911 calls.

Anyone may bring their cell phones to a drop box in the guest services office in the entryway of Denver Zoo. Entry in the zoo is not required. For further information, contact Patrick Phelan at (303) 376-4846 or visit www.denverzoo.org.