March – May 2008

A PUBLICATION FOR KNOXVILLE ZOO MEMBERS AND SUPPORTERS
MARCH / MAY 2008
VOLUME 23 • ISSUE 2
ZooCamp
Info Inside
Registration
opens April 22
for members
www.knoxville-zoo.org
So much to
See, So much to Zoo
From the Director
Happy birthday to Knoxville Zoo! This month
we begin our 60th year and although we’ve had
our ups and downs over those years, I think you
will have to agree that we turned out very well. We
were once, many years ago, considered an
embarrassment and are now considered to be one of
Knoxville’s greatest assets and the largest year around attraction in Knoxville.
We want you to celebrate with us and congratulate yourselves for your role in
our success story. Your support continues to help us reach higher and higher and to
continue to be the anchor attraction for tourism in our community. Of the 430,088
people who visited Knoxville Zoo in 2007, nearly 200,000 of those guests were
tourists traveling more than 100 miles to get to Knoxville Zoo. Those tourists not
only spent time and money at Knoxville Zoo but also spent time and money in and
around Knoxville. They visited our local businesses, they visited other attractions,
and they stayed in our hotels. They made a difference to the Knoxville/Knox
County economy.
Nearly 50,000 students and their chaperones came to Knoxville Zoo in 2007 to
learn about animals and nature. Those who could not get to us, we took our
Zoomobiles and went to them, more than 41,000 of them.
You’ll read in the following pages about some of the fun, exciting exhibits, and
programs that will be at Knoxville Zoo during 2008. We have planned a year that
will have lots of surprises and will both entertain and teach kids of all ages. From
frogs to butterflies to red pandas, Knoxville Zoo will be putting on a happy face to
provide you lots of fun and the best experience possible for the friends and family
that you bring with you on your visit.
Remember also that starting May 1, part of I-40 will close just west of the Zoo.
The good news is that there should not be much of a problem getting to the Zoo.
The Knoxville Zoo Drive exit, 392, will be open as usual and if you use either I640 or James White Parkway to Magnolia you will get to the zoo quickly and
easily. You will see billboards along the highways reminding you how to get to us.
In the coming months you will be hearing and seeing more and more about the
zoo on TV, radio, and in the press. We will get the word out to make sure it’s easy
to get to Knoxville Zoo. Please let your friends know that there will be some really
wild things going on this year at Knoxville Zoo and the highway construction will
not cause you any real problems.
And when you visit the zoo, keep an eye out for the Green Monkey. We’re
working on a program that will give conservation a new face.
Jim Vlna
Executive Director
Knoxville Zoological Gardens
Board of Directors
David Moon – Chairman of the Board
H. Pete Claussen – Vice-Chairman
Christopher P. Kinney – Treasurer/Secretary
Mark Brown
David Collins
Stephen W. Dean
Cynthia Finch
Sam Furrow
J.E. Henry
Greg Isaacs
Larry B. Martin
Regina Murray
Robert H. Polk
Dr. Leon Potgieter
Sharon Miller Pryse
Mintha E. Roach
Patrick Roddy
Robert S. Talbott
Tim Williams
Robert F. Worthington, Jr.
Honorary Directors:
Williams E. Arant, Jr.
William W. Baxter
James A. Bean
Lee Congleton
Dr. William L. Patterson
Justice Gary Wade
Janya M. Marshall
Editor
Contributors:
Nancy Berger, Emily Bolling, Kellie Burns, Teresa Collins, Kelley
DeLuca, Sylvia Easton, Chad Fifer, Roz Gorzeman, Janya M.
Marshall, Lisa New, Alison Swank, Shannon Swayney, Bern W.
Tryon, Jim Vlna
Photos:
Phil Colcough, Merrill Lynch, Melissa Newkoop, Bern W. Tryon,
Betty Wasserman
Knoxville Zoo
P. O. Box 6040, Knoxville, TN 37914
865.637.5331
www.knoxville-zoo.org
Membership
Education
Bedtime with the Beasts
Volunteers
x305
x350
x352
x374
Birthday Parties
Group Sales & Picnics
WildCare Supporters
Outreach
x352
x307
x305
x371
Zoo Hours:
Now through March 14
Everyday 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
March 15 through May 26
Weekdays 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Weekends 9:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Admission and tickets sales stop one hour before the zoo closes.
M I S S I O N S TAT E M E N T :
Knoxville Zoological Gardens celebrates the wonders of the natural
world. Through education, conservation and recreation, the zoo will tell
the stories of the animals, the plants and the people who make up the
communities of the earth. The zoo will develop positive attitudes and
actions about nature and about conservation as a local and global issue.
Admission price is $16.95 for adults, children ages 2-12 are
$12.95, children under 2 are free. Senior citizens are admitted
for $12.95 as well.
Parking: $4, free for members
Parking lot tram: Free, runs during peak hours
except in winter months
Copyright © 2008 Knoxville Zoological Gardens. All Rights Reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means without permission of the publisher. Wild Wonders is published three times a year as a
benefit to the members and supporters of Knoxville Zoo.
TOADALLY BLOOMIN’ ZOOCAMP 2008
What in the world is that? Join us for a weird, wacky, wonderful summer.
PRESCHOOL: Zookids who will be ages 3 or 4 BEFORE camp
begins. Parent attends with child. Snack and drink provided for child.
The fun activities are designed for children ages 3 and 4 with significant
parental involvement. We cannot accommodate unregistered siblings.
Session I
May 26 - 30
9 a.m. - noon
Session II
June 2 - 6
9 a.m. - noon
Session III
June 9 - 13
9 a.m. - noon
Session IV
June 16 - 20
9 a.m. - noon
Session V
June 23 - 27
9 a.m. - noon
Are You My Mother?
Whether she hops, flies, walks or swims, it’s essential to know your
mother. Animal families are distinct – just like ours.
KINDERGARTEN: Zookids who are age 5 BEFORE camp begins.
Parent does not attend with child. Snack and drink provided.
Session I
May 26 - 30
9 a.m. - noon
Session II
June 2 - 6
9 a.m. - noon
Session III
June 9 - 13
9 a.m. - noon
Session IV
June 16 - 20
9 a.m. - noon
Are You My Mother?
Does a tadpole have a mother? What does a caterpillar’s dad look like?
Animal families are amazing!
FIRST GRADE: Zookids who will be entering the 1st grade. Bring a
sack lunch. Drink provided.
Session I
June 2 - 6
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Session II
June 30 – July 4
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Session III
July 14 - 18
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Session IV
July 21 - 25
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
big, Bigger, BIGGEST
Tiny butterflies to giant frogs and marmosets to elephants, animals of
all shapes and sizes fit into the web of life. How do they do that? Join
us and find out!
SECOND OR THIRD GRADE: Zookids who will be entering the
2nd or 3rd grade. Bring a sack lunch. Drink provided.
Session I
June 9 - 13
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Session II
June 30 – July 4
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Session III
July 14 - 18
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Session IV
July 28 – August 1
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Dinner or Diner?
From the monarch of butterflies to the king of the jungle, it’s “toadally”
astonishing what and how animals eat. Uncover some of the secrets of
eating wild.
Each ZooCamper will be experiencing a program especially designed to
meet the needs, interests and expectations appropriate to their age and
developmental stage, so it is important that you comply with the age
guidelines. Please do not request to enroll children in other age categories.
Siblings are not allowed to attend. Children with special needs may require
that a personal chaperone be provided. Come to as many camps as you wish.
It’s easy to register! Just dial 637-5331 then 7 to connect to the first
available person.
FOURTH OR FIFTH GRADE: Zookids who will be entering the
4th or 5th grade. Bring a sack lunch. Drink provided.
Session I
June 23 - 27
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Session II
July 7 - 11
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Session III
July 21 - 25
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Session IV
July 28 – August 1
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
If I Ran the Zoo!
How would you put the pieces and parts together to make a zoo?
Excitement is everywhere when you discover what it takes to operate
the zoo. Surprises are around every corner.
SIXTH, SEVENTH OR EIGHTH GRADE: Zookids who will be
entering the 6th, 7th or 8th grade. Bring a sack lunch. Drink provided.
Session I
June 23 – 27
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Session II
July 7 - 11
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Why Do They Do That?
Can a tiger really use that phone book? Explore the baffling world of
enrichment. What does a frog find interesting? Make a “critter” and
watch a predator hunt it! Enrichment – it’s just another word for fun in
the animal world.
Session III
July 14 - 18
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
ShowTime
NEW! Learn to work with some education animals,
use biofacts and jokes, write and research the script
and create a stage presence. Work together to
produce your own show and actually perform it
at week’s end. Discover what a zoo career is all
about in this first ever ShowTime ZooCamp.
FEES
Preschool and Kindergarten Sessions:
Zoo members $105.00
First through Fifth Grade Sessions:
Zoo members $115.00
Sixth through Eighth Grade Sessions:
Zoo members $125.00
If you are not a zoo member, add $10 to the cost for each camp
session.
A fee of $5.00 per 15 minutes will be charged for late pickups. After 15
minutes, the camper can be picked up at the Zoo Education office.
Thank you to Snyder’s of Hanover for providing
snacks for ZooCamp.
All camps are held at Knoxville Zoo. Registration required. Please have
your credit card and zoo membership I. D. number ready! Programs are
held rain or shine. Programs fill quickly and are on a first-come, first-serve
basis. Registration fees are non-refundable. That means that if you choose
to cancel your registration, all fees are forfeited.
The Zoo Education Department reserves the right to cancel programs with
insufficient registration. A full refund will be given for program
cancellations.
Registration opens TUESDAY, April 22nd for members and TUESDAY,
April 29th for non-members. Registration is required.
March/May 2008 • Wild Wonders • 3
Y E S T E R D AY
AND
T O D AY:
Celebrating 60 years of Knoxville Zoo
4 • Wild Wonders • March/May 2008
animals. There are also employees who work tirelessly in the grounds
and maintenance departments who play a vital role toward the
conservation of animals world-wide. There are also those who take the
wonders of Knoxville Zoo into the classroom through the many
outreach programs presented by the education and bird show
departments. There are also the staff members that assists guests,
prepare the food and refreshments for guests and sell tickets and
souvenirs. These staff members make it possible for everyone to
experience an incredible
Did you know Knoxville
adventure with friends and
family during their visit.
Zoo houses the ninth
Volunteers are also major
largest reptile collection
contributors to the daily
in the United States?
functions at Knoxville Zoo.
From assisting keepers and curators with daily duties to working with
the education department on outreach programs, volunteers stay busy
during their time at the zoo. Some volunteers help with zoo special
events and in administration as well. There are more than 140
volunteers who assist at the zoo on a regular basis, contributing more
than 14,500 hours annually. Knoxville Zoo is proud that many of the
volunteers serving the zoo today have also been assisting the zoo for
much of its past as well!
It is impossible to look back over the last 60 years and not consider
the unbelievable animals who have called Knoxville Zoo home.
Mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, marine mammals and many
insects have become favorites to local guests and those passing through
the area. Some guests have planned their vacation destinations around
a trip to see the internationally known red pandas or the turtle and
tortoise programs in the animal collection. Local residents and tourists
Did you know that Knoxville
Zoo has over 350 animals on
exhibit?
S
ince its beginning in 1948, Knoxville Zoo has seen welcomed
more than 20,000,000 guests, been home to thousands of
animals and has seen numerous park, landscape and exhibit
changes. Did you know that Knoxville Zoo is 60-years-old?
Over the last 60 years many things have changed at Knoxville Zoo.
One of those things is simply the name. It has been known as the
Birthday Park, the Birthday Park Zoo, the Municipal Zoo, Knoxville
Zoological Park, and its current name, Knoxville Zoological Gardens.
In 1971, Guy Smith purchased a lion cub named Joshua, after
which he spent 17 years building Knoxville Zoo. Long ago the city and
the humane society
had planned to
close the zoo that
is now an
accredited member
of the Association
of Zoos and
Aquariums (AZA).
Along with Smith,
there are many
other individuals
and groups who
have helped make the zoo what
Did you know, Knoxville
it is today. In 1987, the board of
Zoo is internationally
directors chose Ted Beattie to be
known for it’s red panda
the second director of Knoxville
breeding program and
Zoo. Beattie expanded staffing
has birthed over 91 red
by creating an Education
pandas, more than any
Department and a Visitors
other zoo in the northern
Services Department. The zoo
succeeded and grew even more
hemisphere?
from 1993 to 2000 under the
direction of Patrick Roddy. During his time as Knoxville Zoo’s director,
Roddy encouraged the community to see the many things being
accomplished at the zoo. Roddy wanted everyone to see the zoo as a
world-class institution. In 2000, Jim Vlna, the zoo’s deputy director, was
chosen as Knoxville Zoo’s executive director and continues to serve the
zoo in that role today. Under Vlna’s leadership, many construction
projects have been completed and the plans for others, including a new
herpetology building, Knoxville Zoo Museum, new big cat viewing,
additions to the Clayton Family Kids Cove and others, fill the
workspace of his office.
Knoxville Zoo would not be East Tennessee’s largest year-round
attraction without the support of the community. The City of
Knoxville, the Knox County government and the Knox County
Commission are just a few of the groups who have continued to
support Knoxville Zoological Gardens.
Leadership, guidance, dedication and vision have been evident in
the major positive changes and growth Knoxville Zoo has shown since
the days of Guy Smith. Another key to the success of Knoxville Zoo is
the dedicated and professional staff that cares for the zoo’s many
alike have had special favorites over the years like Old Diamond the
African elephant, Sam the gorilla, Al and Tex the giant Aldabran
tortoises, the white bengal tigers or Einstein, the official spokesbird of
Knoxville Zoo and her friends from the Bird Show. Throughout the
years, the zoo has hosted marine mammals, polar bears and cougars
that are no longer part of the animal collection today. However, over
800 animals live at Knoxville Zoo currently. Some of them have new
1948-2008
By Janya Marshall,
media relations manager
exhibits like The Boyd Family Red Panda Village and some are
looking forward to new digs that are in the planning stages. Knoxville
Zoo will soon be creating new exhibits for the big cats and the
herpetology department.
Knoxville Zoo has hosted a number of special events throughout its
many years. Between annual favorites like Feast with the Beasts, BOO!
at the Zoo and Free Day, guests have enjoyed celebrating time
together, having fun and learning about animals. Knoxville Zoo is
always providing additional new opportunities for guests such as Jungle
Love, Breakfast with Santa, and interactive shows by some very special
celebrities like Comcast Day featuring Barney.
From our humble beginnings and difficult beginnings 60 years ago,
Knoxville Zoo has developed into a respected zoological institution
that is an asset to our community. It is our hope and our plan to
continue that effort for the next 60 years.
If you know people who have not visited the zoo in a long time, tell
them about all of our new exhibits and what a great time you have at
Knoxville Zoo. And if you have not seen the zoo in a while, we want
to invite you to come celebrate the 60th Birthday of Knoxville Zoo! ∫
Toadally Frogs: 2008 Year of the Frog
K
ermit the Frog made famous these few but powerful words, “It’s
not easy being green.” Although it has been years since he
originally made that statement, today he
might change it a bit to simply say, “It’s
not easy being a frog.” In 2008, Knoxville
Zoo, along with the many zoos and
aquariums accredited by the Association of
Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), is celebrating
the Year of the Frog.
Many of you are asking the question:
“Why frogs? Frogs have been on the
Earth for more than 200 million years.
Why now, why frogs?” It is simple: frogs
are going extinct. Environmental changes
have resulted in the decline of amphibians
as a whole. The major culprits leading
amphibians toward extinction has
historically and continues to be habitat
loss and introductions of non-native
species, yet, many of the declines and
Blue dart frog
extinctions are being attributed to a
By Janya M. Marshall
with information provided by AZA
rapidly spreading fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), which
can cause the disease chytridimycosis (sometimes called “chytrid”).
In March, Knoxville Zoo unveiled the
new exhibit, Toadally Frogs in the Pilot
Traveling Exhibit Building. This area will
allow visitors the opportunity to see what
amphibians live in their own backyards and
in the backyards of our neighbors in
different regions of the country, and even
an international neighbor or two.
Children will have the opportunity to
see some of the many amphibian species
such as blue dart frogs, Brazilian cave frogs,
terrible dart frogs, mudpuppies, mossy frogs,
marine toads and many more. Children will
also be able to play at the indoor play area,
learn the croaking songs of the frogs and
have a hoppin’ good time.
Sponsored by Bush Brothers &
Company, WIVK 107.7 FM, and WVLT
Volunteer TV, the
(continnued page 6)
Knoxville Zoo is excited about a new partnership with Bush Brothers & Company, who is the presenting
sponsor for the Toadally Frogs exhibit. Bush Brothers & Company, in celebration of their 100th
Anniversary, has become a new partner of Knoxville Zoo in an effort to support the 2008 Year of the
Frog and to celebrate the East Tennessee community that is home to their national headquarters. Bush
Brothers & Company is built on the foundation of family and generations of their “community of companions” that have made the Centennial celebration possible. The sponsorship of Toadally Frogs is just the first of many projects
between Bush Brothers & Company and Knoxville Zoo. Thank you Bush Brothers & Company, you are a hoppin’ good partner!
March/May 2008 • Wild Wonders • 5
(continnued from page 5)
Toadally Frogs exhibit is a way for you
and your family to learn about and help prevent amphibian
extinction in your own backyard and here at Knoxville Zoo! ∫
In order to fight amphibian extinction, the Association of Zoos and
Aquariums (AZA), in cooperation with other world organizations
such as WAZA (World Association of Zoos and Aquariums), the
IUCN Amphibian Specialist group, has highlighted 2008 at the
Year of the Frog. The events throughout 2008 are meant to engage
the public in amphibian conservation and to raise funds for global
amphibian conservation efforts into the future. AZA-accredited
zoos and aquariums, such as Knoxville Zoo, with their
demonstrated expertise in endangered species breeding programs,
have been called upon to meet this conservation challenge.
The combined effect of habitat destruction, climate change,
pollution, and the spread globally of Bd cannot be addressed solely in
the wild. Zoo and aquarium habitats and breeding programs have
become the only hope for many species faced with imminent extinction.
Coming soon!
Bloomin’ Butterfly Gardens
S
kippers, flying flowers and painted ladies are arriving at this
April at Knoxville Zoo along with their friends and they are
hoping you might visit. Experience Bloomin’ Butterfly Gardens in
living color this spring at Knoxville Zoo.
This one-of-a-kind encounter allows
you to immerse yourself in a flurry
of butterfly kisses as these flying
flowers get in your face or sit
gently on your shoulder!
Butterflies are beautiful,
flying insects with large,
colorful wings. Like all
insects, they have six jointed legs, three body parts, a pair of
antennae, compound eyes, and an exoskeleton. The three body parts
are the head, thorax (the chest) and the abdomen (the tail end).
These insects belong to the order Lepidoptera. Lepidos is
Greek for “scales” and ptera means “wings.” Yet, these scaled wings
are different from the wings of any other insect. Lepidoptera is a
very large group; there are more types of butterflies and moths
than there are of any other type of insect except beetles. There are
an estimated 28,000 butterfly species worldwide.
The butterflies featured in the new
Bloomin’ Butterfly Gardens exhibit at
Knoxville Zoo are all North American
butterflies. The exhibit was built by the
experts at Spineless Wonders. When you
visit you may come across a few
scallopwing, sicklewing, and duskywing
friends who want to stop and say “Hello!”
Hundreds and hundreds of butterflies will fill
the exhibit allowing you to be touched by these magical
creatures. Come see the butterflies blossom with color this spring
at Knoxville Zoo! ∫
6 • Wild Wonders • March/May 2008
Animal news
BIRDS
Every season provides interesting opportunities to observe birds and
study their habits. For the last 100+ years Christmas Bird Counts
(CBC) have been conducted all over North America, Central
America and the Caribbean. The count consists of volunteer
observers counting birds within a 15-mile circle for one-day during
the count period which runs from December 14 to January 5. The
CBC provides the largest available database on the early wintering
populations of birds in North America. When you combine the
information from the breeding bird surveys with the Christmas
counts you have a really powerful tool to determine populations and
population changes.
Locally, we have counts in Norris, Great Smoky Mountains
National Park, Cades Cove and Knoxville. Zoo staff was lucky
enough to be able to participate in three of these counts.
Seven Islands Wildlife Refuge is an excellent place to find and
observe winter sparrows. Sparrows are often relegated to the status of
“little brown job” because they are so difficult to identify. In fact, they
are difficult to identify even using binoculars, but we have the
advantage of being able to catch and identify them in hand before we
band them. It is a shame more people can’t see them as close as we
do and see that they are spectacular birds. We banded nine sparrow
species and saw a peak of sparrow movement in early November.
Many species have cyclical populations. We see this in many
finches and in some owls. This happened to be an eruption year for
Saw-whet owls and all over the Eastern US, banders have been busy
since early October banding these small owls. The technique is easy;
you just set up your nets in the woods and play a very loud recording of
their song. Because of the loudness of the recording and the similarity
to a car alarm, a secluded spot is recommended. Seven Islands fits the
bill and on November 10 we banded four Saw-whets. These are
fantastic birds; smaller and more secretive than our more common
Screech owl, they have bright yellow eyes and a feisty disposition.
Wintering hummingbirds have been less common than last year. So
far six new Rufous hummingbirds have been banded this year which
is about half of the number of banded birds from last year. The most
amazing thing is an Allen’s hummingbird was banded in Mountain
City. Allen’s are extremely rare in Tennessee and the entire Southeast,
so this was one for the record books. Three hummingbirds banded in
2006 returned to the same yard in 2007 to spend the winter.
Within the zoo, we have been moving some birds around to
fulfill SSP and exhibit requirements. We acquired a new Andean
condor “Atreyu” for exhibit and will be sending our male “Andy” to
Syracuse for breeding. The Andean condors moved from their
former exhibit in the reptile area to an area beside otters. This gives
them a little more space, and the potential to be housed together if
it seems like they are getting along. They are on exhibit as the area is
now open for your viewing pleasure. We also acquired a new male
Bali mynah from Birmingham to exhibit with our other male in a
bachelor flock. We will also be acquiring a new female African
penguin from Memphis to even out the sex ratio in our penguin
exhibit. We will have 14 birds on exhibit with recommendations to
breed two pairs.
The end of 2007 was marked by a huge loss to the Bird Show.
Edgar, an American crow, was retired at the end of the season and
by Lisa New, director of animal
collections – mammals and birds
died over the holidays. As mentioned in the previous Wild Wonders
issue, Edgar was responsible for raising conservation dollars by flying
to retrieve dollar bills out of the hands of show guests and putting the
money into a donation jug. His act was so popular that guests would
frequently bring money to the stage after the show for him to repeat.
He was a wonderful addition to the show and to the zoo’s
commitment to conservation. His age was estimated to be in the midtwenties.
While Edgar’s death was a hard blow for the Bird Show, it is a
reminder that zoo animals are part of the cycle of life. Spring brings
new beginnings and the Bird Show is in the process of receiving
several new animals to feature for the 2008 season. We have acquired a
male peregrine falcon named Jett Worthington. He is fully flighted
and the plan is to have him demonstrate his speed and agility. Jett
Worthington came from a Canadian zoo where he was flown for their
shows, so we are working to get him to used to his new home and
trainers.
We have acquired an Abyssinian ground hornbill. This species is
very similar to the southern ground hornbills that are on exhibit next
to Meerkat Lookout. This bird has also been in shows at another
institution. He will go through quarantine and our trainers will work
to get him ready for this season. This bird was featured in a children’s
book called Only One Henrietta. We are excited to add this beautiful
and unique species to our list of avian stars.
Finally, we have acquired a new mammal for the Bird Show. We
have been in the process of adding more mammal and reptile species to
the show to join Sue and Jane our pot-bellied pigs. Tennessee Wildlife
Resources Agency presented us with this chance when they confiscated
a raccoon. This animal will give our audience the chance to see
a very common native species up-close and personal. We
look forward to the opportunity to share Bandit’s
story with our audience and expand our roster of
animal ambassadors.
MAMMALS
For the most part, the winter has been quiet
with the mammals at Knoxville Zoo. Kali
white tiger’s holding building was completed,
so she has been able to enjoy her first winter
with a nice new facility. A male red panda
arrived as a breeding recommendation from
the Red Panda Species Survival Plan (SSP).
The majority of animals were healthy with only
minor issues and illnesses, and most of our
veterinary care over the winter focused on preventative
care.
Of course, one of the most newsworthy events to occur to
Knoxville Zoo’s animal collection over the winter was the loss of Bibi
gorilla on December 25. Bibi had been feeling poorly in the days
leading up to her death and on Christmas Eve she began to experience
swelling of the face, neck and shoulders. She died during an
emergency immobilization the next day.
Bibi arrived at Knoxville Zoo in 2001 with Ernie as her companion.
They had been housed together since 1989. While at the Cheyenne
Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs, Ernie and Bibi were housed with
several other females. At the time, Ernie was a rambunctious teenager
and he was very pesky and rough with the majority of females there.
Bibi could stand her own ground with him, probably because she had
been with him since he was very young. When it seemed that Ernie
was incompatible with the females at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the
Gorilla SSP recommended that he move to Knoxville along with Bibi.
While Bibi could stand up to Ernie, she deferred a lot of her decisionmaking to him. Ernie decided whether they would go out on exhibit
for the day and what actions the day would hold. Ernie took the
preferred food items, resting spots, and den space. But such is the life of
a group leader.
When Bibi died, the keepers brought her body to Ernie for
viewing. The apes are so intelligent that we feel it important for them
to have the closure of knowing what has occurred. For any medical
procedure, the animals are separated for safety purposes. The animal
that is not scheduled for the procedure goes outside and often, as was
the case with Ernie, given a sedative such a valium, to ease his
apprehension over the separation and not knowing what is happening
with his companion. Since Bibi died during that separation, we felt it
critical that Ernie know what had happened. So we brought Bibi’s
body for him to see. He was quiet and curious, and would not readily
leave for us to remove Bibi. He made calls most often heard when a
group leader is calling his troop close to him. This was a very difficult
thing for keepers to observe, but necessary for all parties involved.
In the days following Bibi’s death, Ernie continued to look and call
for her. He now spends more time visiting with Kwashi and Bantu, the
other two male gorillas that reside at the zoo. It is hoped that through
the Gorilla SSP, other companions for Ernie will be located.
To lose any animal at the zoo is difficult for all of the
staff. It is the keeper’s job to ensure that each animal’s
welfare is the best that it can be, that they are
provided choices and opportunities and that
each day is lived to its fullest potential. At
least, these are the goals that we strive for.
So it is certainly understandable that in
the course of fulfilling those duties, a
keeper becomes incredibly attached to the
animals. They command a respect and
dignity often reserved for friends and
family. Such was the case with Bibi. What
has truly been touching is the outpouring
of sympathy and well wishes from the
community. Our mailboxes have been filled
with cards, letters, and children’s drawings from
people who knew Bibi in their own ways. This is so
special for zoo staff to hear. We know that people come
to the zoo for a fun filled day with their families. We know that
they enjoy seeing the animals and learning something about them. But
through these letters and kind comments, we also have solidified our
knowledge that many of you form personal relationships with the
animals that live here or perhaps know things about them that we do
not know. This is a critical part of Knoxville Zoo’s mission. Through
Bibi’s life, the way she touched so many of us, and the other animals
like her at the zoo, we all can celebrate the wonders of the natural
world. ∫
March/May 2008 • Wild Wonders • 7
HERPnotes...
HERPETOLOGY
by Bern W. Tryon, director of
animal collections/herpetology
Bog Turtles of Stature
ack in 1919, Harold Babcock published a monograph entitled
“The Turtles of New England” (Memoirs of the Boston Society
of Natural History, Volume 8, Number 3). Babcock was not only a
herpetologist, but a medical doctor and artist, and the hand-drawn and
colored plates he executed for this volume remain some of the finest
illustrations ever produced of the turtles of that region. Among the
species included was the bog turtle, at that time known only from a very
few places throughout the northern part of the range, and from only
two North Carolina records here in the south.
The discovery of a bog turtle population in
Tennessee in 1986 was the beginning of our
own lengthy study, and Tennessee was the last
state to complete the currently known 12 state
range. Examining as much of the literature as
I could, one thing that stood out about this
species was its small size, often stated as being
the “smallest” or “one of the smallest” turtle
species in the United States. The Peterson Field
Guide (1991) by Conant and Collins lists
average adult size as “3-3
1/2 inches,” truly a small
turtle, but the record size
stated in this and in all of
the recent literature relates
back to Babcock’s volume
which stated “A length of
carapace of 4 1/2 inches is
occasionally attained.” Back
then, few records were
available, and no actual
museum specimen exists
which can confirm this
exceptional shell length.
Still, that record persists
Orchard Bog male 4.7
based, apparently, only
B
on Babcock’s statement.
On 17 April 1988, shortly after I had just begun my third field
season, I found a huge male bog turtle at Quarry Bog, one of our two
historic study sites. By that time I had seen a number of these turtles in
Tennessee and elsewhere, but this one was massive by comparison.
Measurements in the field are taken with calipers in millimeters (mm),
not inches, and maximum shell length of this male was right at 112mm.
Other than looking at the turtle, I had no idea at the time that it lacked
only a tiny 2.3mm from being that benchmark record shell length of 4
1/2 inches, or 114.3mm! I contacted friends and fellow bog turtle
researchers and discovered some interesting information. Dennis
Herman, who has studied bog turtles in North Carolina since 1976,
told me that few really big bog turtles have been found anywhere, and
the largest known North Carolina specimen, also a male, was 108.5mm,
still huge by all standards. Jim Warner, who obtained his masters degree
8 • Wild Wonders • March/May 2008
studying these turtles in Connecticut and had access to historical
museum records, related that a relatively few bog turtles, even males,
were known that have been much over 100mm in shell length from the
northern portion of the range.
Each turtle season comes with its high and low points, and 2007
was no exception. Much of our time and focus over the past few seasons
has shifted to the wetland restoration area adjacent to Orchard Bog.
Restoration efforts at this site by The Nature Conservancy were
showing some amazing potential, and we had seen, via radio-telemetry,
that several of our previously
identified turtles were
regularly using parts of this
large 65-acre area. Some
found there had not been seen
for years, so in early spring we
set out 15 turtle traps along a
ditch that was being used by
the radio-tracked turtles in
order to find out just who else
might be out there. The traps,
set into shallow water in trails
and covered with vegetation,
Quarry Bog male 0.7
are of a passive action whereby
turtles push up a mesh flap as
they walk, enter the trap, and the flap closes behind them.
On 11 June, I approached a trap set in a narrow channel and I saw
the movement of water around it, indicating a turtle had been captured.
I lifted the vegetation and saw not one, but two turtles in the trap! At
first I pulled out female 4.1, one of our telemetry animals, a good
recapture. But it was the second turtle that was a sight to behold! It was
a brand new male, the first new adult found at Orchard Bog since 1994,
and what a male it was. Shell length was 112.58mm, rivaling the
Quarry Bog monster that now measures 113.46mm! For years I had
predicted that nobody would ever see a bog turtle nearly as large as the
one from Quarry Bog, but I was now holding one in my own hand! We
didn’t waste any time placing a transmitter on our new prize, and
perhaps he will now show us where he has been all of these years.
Based on all available records, these two males are the largest known
living bog turtles anywhere within the 12 state range of this species.
Working in millimeters is important for small species, and 114.3mm is
the benchmark that was set by Babcock many years ago. Reptiles,
including turtles, are capable of growth throughout their lives although
once reaching adulthood, this growth can progress at an extremely slow
rate. Since 1988 we’ve documented some painfully slow growth in the
Quarry Bog male, but in turtle terms both of our big guys are still
rather young (30’s) and they are closing in on that record mark. With
some measure of good health and luck along the way, both turtles will
undoubtedly outlive me, and someday, somebody just might want to be
on the lookout for one or two record-sized bog turtles in our state! Is a
millimeter or two really all that important? You bet it is! ∫
WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS h h h h h h h h h h h h h h h h h h h h h h h h h h h h h
Knoxville Zoo has received generous support
from Chad and Robin Pennington’s 1st and 10
Foundation. The $17,500 grant is earmarked for
Youth Vols, our volunteer
program for teens aged 13
to 17. For teens passionate
about animals and
conservation, volunteering
for the zoo can be an
amazing experience, helping them build their
own skills while learning to help others. The
Foundation’s support will allow the zoo to expand
the number of teens served, and create more
opportunities for minority and at-risk youth.
Thank you 1st and 10 Foundation!
The Knoxville News Sentinel has been a long
withstanding and generous partner of Knoxville
Zoo. The News Sentinel is
a valuable organization
that recognizes and
appreciates community treasures such as the zoo.
Their generous support has included sponsorship
of the News Sentinel Amphitheater, the Birthday
Party Place, the Adopt-an-Animal program, the
Zoo Map, zoo events and fundraisers such as
Zoofari and Boo! at the Zoo, as well as overall
promotion and advertising. We truly appreciate the
charitable support of the Knoxville News Sentinel.
We would like to thank the following sponsors:
BOO! at the Zoo
U.S. Cellular
1st Choice Chiropractic
All Occasion Party Rentals
AT&T/ The Real Yellow
Pages
B97.5
Clubhouse Ministries
Goody’s
KAT
Knoxville TVA Employees
Credit Union
Krispy Kreme
Kroger
Krystal
Lamar
Mayfield Dairy Farms and
The Mayfield Moms
Norwood Chiropractic
ORNL Federal Credit
Union
Party Boys
Shoney’s
Supercuts
Target
WBIR
Adopt-an-Animal
The WildCare Adoption program now has
a new name and a new look! WildCare
is now called Adopt-an-Animal. As
always, when you Adopt-an-Animal, you
are helping us feed and care for the animals that call Knoxville Zoo home. The
Adopt-an-Animal packages have been
redesigned with new logos, new colors and
an all around more eye-catching style.
They’re WILD!!
Support the zoo.
One animal at a time.
New
Adoption
Kits!
2007 Knoxville Zoo
Veterinarian Conference
Woodruff Brewing
Company... Many Thanks
to Tommy Higdon
2007 Cookies and Milk
with Santa
Cookies by Design
Mayfield Dairy Farms
All Occasion Party Rentals
2007 Holiday Party
105.3 FM WFIV
Abby’s Attic
Applebee’s
Bayou Bay
Big Fatty’s
Carmike Cinemas
East Tennessee Children’s
Hospital
Crown Plaza
Disc Exchange
Fins’n Skins
Fisher Tire
Foster’s Fine Jewelry
Glamor & Glitz Salon
Journal Broadcasting
Group
Knoxville Tourism and
Sports Corporation
Lady Volunteer Media
Relations Department
Mary Kay Consultant,
Madlyn Mottern
Mellow Mushroom
National Dance Clubs
Pumpkin’s Little Pieces
Regal Cinemas
River Dog Bakery
Schakolad
Shoney’s
Therapeutic Balance
Bodywork Associates
Walgreens- Asheville
Highway
WATE, TV-6
2008 Jungle Love
B & T Distributing
O'Charley’s
Woodruff Brewing
Welcome new Adopt-an-Animal parents
Parent
Ashley Arnwine
The Baxter Family
Allyson Carroll
Cindy Carroll
Dessie Carroll
Jimmy Carroll
Weezie Carroll
Diana Carson
Jerry Davis
Steve Davis
John DeBusk
Avery Doubleday
E. G. Doubleday
Anna Evans
Kim Horder
Barbara Hutchison
Aubree Jones
Lisa LaForest
Joe Ben LaGrone
Robert Levy
Scott Lich
J.R. Lucke
Animal
Giraffe
Elephant
Al - Aldabran tortoise
Naked mole rat
Naked mole rat
Tiger - Orange
Meerkat
Meerkat
Chinese alligator
Al - Aldabran tortoise
Meerkat
River otter
Chimpanzee
Elephant
Kimmi - Meerkat
Red panda
Zebra
Einstein
Gorilla
Otter
Penguin
Snow leopard
Parent
Maddie McCann
Vincent Margiewicz
Billy Marxen
Warren Maslowski
Holly Nehls
Harold Peters
Harold Peters
Loretta Phillips
Andrea Pierce
Chase Rathfoot
Ryan Rathfoot
Randall Riggs
Damon Rodefer
William Rolf
Reilly Schwab
Tammy Sisco
Team Southeast
Jackie Stamm
Jerry Walker
Michael Wheeler
Michelle Winkle
Scott Young
Animal
Elsa - Lion
Snow leopard
Red panda
River otter
Camel
Einstein (in memory of Alex)
Meerkat (in memory of Flower)
Beaver
Tiger - Orange
Red panda
African wild dog
Penguin
African wild dog
Einstein
Elephant
Penguin
Black bear
Lion
Chinese alligator
Penguin
Giraffe
Red panda
To become an Adopt-an-Animal parent or to order an adoption package as a gift or for a classroom, please call
637.5331 ext. 300 or 305 or visit www.knoxville-zoo.org.
March/May 2008 • Wild Wonders • 9
Frog Word Search
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Find these words in the puzzle above.
AMPHIBIAN
VERTEBRATES
SUCTION DISKS
GRUNT
COLORFUL
WATER
PONDS
LAND
EGGS
TADPOLE
STREAM
POLLIWOG
COLD BLOODED
VOCAL SAC
SWIM
HIBERNATE
CROAK
WEBBED FEET
STICKY TONGUE
LEAPS
CAMP WILD March 17-21
Ask K.C. Beaver
Knoxville Zoo’s K.C. Beaver
spends a lot of time with the
animals at the zoo. Children
have the opportunity to email
K.C. and ask questions about
the animals. The selected
question or questions will
appear in each of the 2008
Wild Wonders issues. We will
start this issue by asking a few
questions about K.C. Beaver so
you can know him better.
Q: K.C., how long have you
lived at Knoxville Zoo?
A: I have been at Knoxville Zoo
since the 2005 opening of The
Clayton Family Kids’ Cove.
Q: K.C., what is your favorite
thing about Knoxville Zoo?
A: I love all of my animal
friends here at Knoxville Zoo,
but I also love all the kids who
visit us throughout the year. I
would love to hear from you!
To submit a question to K.C.
Beaver, email the question,
along with your first name
and age to Wild Wonders
editor, Janya Marshall at
jmarshall@knoxville-zoo.org.
Spend spring break
at Knoxville Zoo!
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Camp WILD is Knoxville Zoo’s brand new school break camp.
Winter break camp was a great success and spring will be even more
fun. Plan now to spring into all the fun Monday - Friday, March 17 21. Each day will be different and you can come for the week or any
part of it. Camp WILD runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Campers are
expected to bring their lunch and dress appropriately for the weather.
Camp WILD is open to all children in first through fifth grades.
Members: $125 per week or $40 per day
Nonmembers: $135 per week or $45 per day
There is a sibling discount of $5.00.
Call Roz at 637-5331 x352 for more information and to sign up for a
really fun learning experience!
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
10 • Wild Wonders • March/May 2008
Knoxville Zoo sincerely thanks our donors for their generous support of the
zoo’s operations and programs. All contributions advance our mission to
celebrate the wonders of the natural world through education, conservation,
and recreation.
Thank you.
Double your donation through your employer
If your employer has a matching gift program, ask your human resources
manager for an application and include it with your donation.
October – December 2007
Corporate, Foundation, and
Government Donors
1st and 10 Foundation
A1 Dun-Rite Heating & Cooling
Cariten Healthcare
The Clayton Family Foundation
East Tennessee Foundation
Knox County Government
Knoxville Area Association of Realtors
Gene & Florence Monday Foundation,
Inc.
The Sunflower Group
The Watson Foundation, Inc.
Individual Donors
Edward S. Albers, Jr.
Sharon and Joe Babb
Frances Barton
Carol and William Bass
Sybil and Jean Bettencourt
Eric Bowen
Missy and Steven Brandon
Casey Brooks
Terry Cannon
Margo and Mike Carpenter
Linda and Pete Claussen
Janice and Robert Claytor
Roxanne and Michael Coffey
Kelly Creswell
Jennifer and Paul Curry
Kathleen and James Curtis
Lynn Davis
Karen and Mark Downing
Sarah Dunn
Ruby Dye
Wallace Estill
Glady and Ross Faires
Jodi and Fred Feddersen
Traci and Jim Fritz
Jo Gault and Dani Sosa
Margaret L. Goodman
Donald J. Hafer
Patti and Walter Harper
Sandy and Bobby Harrell
Estate of Thelma Opal Harris
Barbara and Richard Hart
Natalie and Jim Haslam
Shayna and Buddy Heins
Ann and J. Parks Hitch
Frances and John Holladay
Merri and Gary Holt
Mary Jane and Marvin House
Sharon L. Hughes
Fred Jenkins and William Richardson
Melinda and Gary Johnson
Peggy and Shawn Kane
Kathy Kirkland
Michael A. Kopp
Tamara and John Krawczyk
Nancy and William Law
Richard W. Ledyard
Robert R. Madigan
Colleen Manrod
Sharon R. Matheny
Peter Mazur
Jessica and Terrill McGee
Gwendolyne and Harold Meeks
Ann C. and J. Norman Naylor
Jo Ann and Don Parsley
Peggy and James Pemberton
Yvonne and Edward Piercy
Betty and Ward Plummer
Nancy and Don Preston
Betsy and John Quinn
Sandra and Bobby Rice
Marilyn and Patrick Roddy
Janice and Howard Rosser
Leanore Spiegel
Ellen and Jim Spitzer
Dolores and Kenneth Stephenson
Dawn and Kevin Stoppello
Sarah Stracner
Ethel Stricklin
Barbara and Paul Taylor
Elizabeth and James Wall
We extend a very special thank you to
the families of Webb School’s 3rd grade
class and the two children who raised
money at their birthday party for the
care of Bruno brown bear.
We appreciate those who have made a
contribution in honor of a friend or loved
one
In honor of Nancy Burnett
Ken Stuckwish
In honor of Martha Fielden
Deanna R. Clunie
We extend our sympathies to the families
and friends who have lost a loved one.
It is on their behalf that we thank the
following memorial contributors.
In memory of Retta B. Grater
Sharon and Ronald Todd
In memory of Dr. Sarada N. Misra
Eva Misra
In memory of Carolyn Severy
Barbara Boulton, Bonnie Langley, and
Sally Luper
In memory of Marie Helen Weaver
Stacy Weaver
Upcoming Events
Work for More Than
Peanuts at Knoxville Zoo
Saturday, April 26, 2008 • 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Find out how to bring out the work animal in you by attending
Knoxville Zoo’s annual job fair.
Knoxville Zoo is looking for friendly and energetic people who are
interested in working for a good cause. Applicants may be 15-years-old
for positions in certain areas, but most positions require employees who
are 16-years or older. Weekend and holiday hours are required, but
employees will not have to work nights.
To attend Knoxville Zoo’s job fair on April 26, visit the Fort
Sanders Ranger Station located to the right of the zoo’s front entrance
for direction to the Zoo’s Conference Center.
Knoxville Zoo is an equal opportunity employer and a Tennessee
drug-free workplace. For further information on the job fair, please
contact Shannon Swayney, human resources manager, at 865.637.5331
ext. 407 or e-mail sswayney@knoxville-zoo.org. ∫
Breakfast with the Bunny
Saturday, March 22, 2008 • 8:30 a.m.
This year, the zoo is kicking off spring in style with
Breakfast with the Bunny. Guests can enjoy an early
breakfast in the Clayton Family Kids Cove tent
starting at 8:30 a.m. The highlight is a visit and
photo with the Easter Bunny. Cost is $22.95 for
adults and $19.95 for children ages 2-12. Zoo
Members receive a $3 discount per person. This fun
event includes a hot delicious breakfast, a visit with the
Easter Bunny, live animals, activities, egg hunt and
admission to the zoo. Bring your camera to take pictures
of your children with the Easter Bunny. Seating is
limited and reservations are required by March 18 to
attend. For more information or to make reservations
call 865.637.5331 ext. 300.
Because this is a fundraising event for Knoxville
Zoo, no refunds will be issued. ∫
March/May 2008 • Wild Wonders • 11
2008 Calendar of Events
MARCH
15 Zoo Hours Change
Zoo hours from March 15 through May 26 will be
weekdays 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and on weekends from
9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Admission and ticket sales stop
one-hour before zoo closes.
15
17-21
22
Family Bedtime
See the zoo as you’ve never experienced it before! Spend
the night in the zoo with a program that begins at 6 p.m.
and ends at 9:30 the next morning. See how the animals
behave when no one else is around. Wake up to the
morning sounds of Knoxville Zoo. Have fun learning
about our animals. The cost is only $30 per person for
members and $35 for non-members, and it’s open to
everyone ages six and up. Call Roz at 637-5331, ext. 352
and sign up today.
Camp WILD
See page 10 for further details about the education
camp during Knox County schools’ Spring Break.
Breakfast with the Bunny – 8:30 a.m.
Hop into spring with a visit with the Easter Bunny.
Knoxville Zoo is hosting “Breakfast with the Bunny” a
fun, unique way to celebrate the arrival of spring. Enjoy a
morning featuring a hot delicious breakfast, activities, live
animals and an egg hunt. The highlight of the event will
be a visit with the Easter Bunny. See page 11 for
reservation information.
APRIL
22 ZooCamp Member Registration Opens.
See page 3 for further details and contact informaton for
ZooCamp.
APRIL (CONTINUED)
26 Knoxville Zoo Job Fair, 10:00 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The zoo is looking for people who are energetic, friendly
and interested in working for a good cause. Employees
must be 16-years-old and above. Weekend and holiday
hours are required, but employees will not have to work
nights. The fair will be held in the Knoxville Zoo
Conference Center. For more information, contact
human resources manager, Shannon Swayney at (865)
637-5331, ext. 407.
27
Party for the Planet
Come celebrate Earth Day at Knoxville Zoo. Many local
conservation groups will be at the zoo to show success
stories in conservation and how your family can help
conserve wildlife. Have a piece of Earth Day cake (while
it lasts) and participate in fun activities throughout the
zoo from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
29
ZooCamp Non-Member Registration Opens.
See page 3 for further details and contact informaton for
ZooCamp.
M AY
10
17
Bear Awareness Day
Celebrate bear awareness day with your favorite black
bears from Knoxville Zoo. Activities will be held
throughout the day.
Touch-A-Truck Day (and a surprise guest)
Kids who love trucks and other fun rough and tough
vehicles will want to visit Knoxville Zoo. A surprise guest
(to be announced at a later date) will be performing at
the Knoxville News-Sentinel Ampitheatre and the zoo
will be full of great vehicles for viewing.
JUNE
7 Zoofari
Save the Date for Knoxville Zoo’s night of dinner,
dancing, live and silent auctions and much more. Call
637-5331, ext. 310 for more information.
*Event and times may change without notice. Please call 637.5331 ext. 300 or visit www.knoxville-zoo.org for more details.
NON-PROFIT
ORGANIZATION
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
KNOXVILLE TN
Knoxville Zoo
P.O. Box 6040
Knoxville, TN 37914
PERMIT NO 322