Houston Zoo

Time To Get Rolling Again For Rhinoceros Conservation

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 19:00:00 GMT

The Houston Chapter of the American Association of Zoo Keepers Hosts Bowling for Rhinos 2008, July 25 at Palace Lanes, 4191 Bellaire Blvd. Media Note: A high resolution image of this year’s Bowling for Rhinos logo is available for your unrestricted use. To acquire via e-mail, please contact Brian Hill at 713-533-6531 (office) or 281-380-5232 (cell). (HOUSTON) July 1, 2008… Bowling is one of the most popular indoor sports in the U. S. with more than 2.5 million bowlers nationwide. Rhinos are one of the world’s most endangered species. Only 17,500 of these marvelous creatures survive in the wild with another 1,200 in zoos and sanctuaries. If you like bowling and you’ve got a soft spot in your heart for rhinos, then the Houston Zoo has a deal for you – Bowling for Rhinos! The Houston Zoo chapter of the American Association of Zookeepers (AAZK) is sponsoring the 18th annual Bowling for Rhinos (BFR) conservation fundraiser on Friday, July 25 from 6-10 p.m. at Palace Lanes,...

GETTING SQUIRRELY AT THE HOUSTON ZOO

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 14:30:00 GMT

(HOUSTON) June 12, 2008 … They’re small and quick and they are the newest addition to the Houston Zoo’s award winning Natural Encounters Building. They are Harris antelope squirrels and they may be seen daily in the Natural Encounters Drylands Exhibit. The Houston Zoo is the only zoo in the past 8 years to have bred the species. Born on April 23, the 5 babies spent the first several weeks of their lives in an off exhibit area of the Natural Encounters Building. About a week before the babies were born, their mom, Middlin (their father is Humphrey) started making a nest in the area using hay and feathers. She had been seen collecting feathers from the guinea fowl that live in the Drylands Exhibit. Keepers confirmed the birth early on the morning of April 23 when they heard squeaking and found five little pink babies squirming in the hay and feathers nest. The babies began emerging from the nest toward the end of May and they’ve been scurrying around the Drylands Exhibit ever...

HOUSTON ZOO DEDICATES NEW INNOVATIVE ELEPHANT FACILITY

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 18:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brian Hill Pager: 713-801-8040 MEDIA ADVISORY PHOTO OPPORTUNITY HOUSTON ZOO DEDICATES NEW INNOVATIVE ELEPHANT FACILITY Zoo Elephants Mac and Methai to Officially Cut the Ribbon Dedicating the new McNair Asian Elephant Habitat Media Note: The 2 p.m. elephant ribbon breaking will be followed by tours of the new facility. Media covering the dedication of the McNair Asian Elephant Habitat is may enter the Zoo at Gate One at 1513 N. MacGregor. Parking and golf cart transportation to the event location will be provided. WHAT: Houston Zoo elephants Mac and Methai will break the ribbon to officially dedicate the Zoo’s new $5 million elephant barn and exhibit area. The facility is the Zoo’s newest addition. The 7,000 square foot barn includes 5 elephant bedrooms and, for the first time, sliding 8 foot by 8 foot windows allowing guests a peek behind the scenes. ...

RARE BABIRUSA PIG BORN AT HOUSTON ZOO

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Thu, 29 May 2008 20:00:00 GMT

RARE BABIRUSA PIG BORN AT HOUSTON ZOO Divine Swine Doing Fine Birth of Endangered Species is a First for the Zoo Media Note: Still photos of Hadiah and mom are available for your unrestricted use via e-mail delivery. Media wishing to acquire still or video photos of Hadiah and Remley on exhibit are invited to contact Brian Hill at 281-380-5232. Media may enter the Zoo at Gate One 1513 N. MacGregor. Parking and cart transport to the exhibit will be provided. Babirusa is pronounced bab-uh-ROO-suh. (HOUSTON) May 28, 2008 The Houston Zoo recorded a first on May 21 with the birth of a rare and endangered babirusa pig. The new arrival is named Hadiah (pronounced: huh-DI-ah). Her name means gift in an Indonesian language. Hadiah weighed approximately one pound at birth and she immediately captured the hearts of her keepers. The newborn may be seen daily on exhibit at the Zoo’s Wortham World of Primates with her mother Remley. Hadiah is Remley’s first birth. Houston...

HOUSTON ZOO ANNOUNCES BIRTH OF PRAIRIE DOGS

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Fri, 09 May 2008 20:00:00 GMT

Media Note: JPEG images of the prairie dog pups may be seen on the Houston Zoo’s Web site at http://www.houstonzoo.org/en/photos/albums/v/23 and are available for your unrestricted use via e-mail. Media wishing to shoot video or still images of the pups may contact Brian Hill at 281-380-5232. (HOUSTON) May 9, 2008 … They’re cute, adorable, furry and oh so quick. They’re the newest arrivals at the Houston Zoo – three black-tailed prairie dogs born approximately six weeks ago at the Zoo’s McGovern Children’s Zoo and just now emerging from their burrow. They’ve been scampering around the Children’s Zoo’s prairie dog exhibit for a few days now and will stay fairly close to their mother for several more weeks. The best time to see the pups is late morning or mid to late afternoon. The black-tailed prairie dog is a member of the squirrel family. Of the five species of prairie dogs in western North America, only the black-tailed prairie dog lives in the Great Plains. It’s...

GET BEAR AWARE AT THE HOUSTON ZOO

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Fri, 09 May 2008 16:00:00 GMT

(HOUSTON) May 1, 2008 … Get bear aware at the Houston Zoo during Bear Awareness Day on Saturday, May 17, 2008 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Find out what you need to know to share the great outdoors with these amazing animals! During Bear Awareness Day, our zookeepers will offer camping tips with dramatic assistance from our spectacled and grizzly bears during Good Camper/Bad Camper Theatre presentations at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. In humorous skits, keepers will demonstrate how to make your campsite bear proof. Find out if our keepers are smarter than the average bear. Check out the Bear Café and find out what bears eat when you visit our commissary booth filled with beary yummy treats! And find out how bears live when you explore the Bear Maze! It’s a long, slow process, but black bears are on the rebound in Louisiana and there have been a number of verified sightings in East Texas. If you enjoy camping, there’s a chance you might spot a bear on a camping trip this summer. Representatives...

HOUSTON ZOO AND GREEN MOUNTAIN ENERGY COMPANY CELEBRATE EARTH DAY BY FLIPPING SWITCH FOR NEW SOLAR ARRAY

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 14:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON ZOO AND GREEN MOUNTAIN ENERGY COMPANY CELEBRATE EARTH DAY BY FLIPPING SWITCH FOR NEW SOLAR ARRAY Solar Array first for animal exhibit at a Texas Zoo Media Note: High resolution JPEG images of the array unveiling are available for your unrestricted use. You may download the images from the Houston Zoo FTP site by logging on to ftp://65.38.108.85 and entering the ID zooprinters and the password print*12jobs. Click the file labeled Zoo-Green Mountain. For more information regarding image availability, please contact Brian Hill at 713.533.6531 (office). HOUSTON (April 23, 2008) – To commemorate Earth Day 2008, the Houston Zoo and Green Mountain Energy Company today unveiled the Zoo’s first solar array. The installation is the first solar array to power an exhibit at a zoo in Texas. The Green Mountain Energy® Solar at the Houston Zoo is 6.4 kilowatts (kW) and will help power the Zoo’s African lion exhibit. The array will provide approximately 33 percent...

LEMONADE DAY LEMONADE CONTEST

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 13:00:00 GMT

MEDIA ADVISORY
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY

WHAT: Lemonade Day Lemonade Contest

WHO: Prepared 4 Life, celebrity judges, and 50 Lemonade Day participants

WHEN: 10 a.m. Saturday, April 26, 2008

WHERE: Houston Zoo, 1513 N. MacGregor

VISUALS: 50 children will set up colorful lemonade stands along the Houston Zoo Reflection Pool and complete for the title of “Best Lemonade.”

9 a.m. – 10 a.m. Contestants set up lemonade stands at Zoo Reflection Pool

10:15 a.m. – 11:05 a.m. Judges begin the lemonade taste test

11:30 a.m. Judges announce winners and present awards.

Media Note: Media covering the Lemonade Contest at the Houston Zoo may enter the Zoo’s Gate One at 1513 N. MacGregor. Parking and golf cart transport to the event site will be provided. For more information, please contact Brian Hill at 713.533.6531 (Office) or 281.380.5232 (cell).

At 10 a.m. on April 26, 50 children chosen at random from around the community will gather at the Houston Zoo to complete for the title of “Best Lemonade.” All “Best Lemonade” contestants are participants in the 2ond annual Lemonade Day, a city-wide event hosted by Prepared 4 Life, a nonprofit organization that prepares middle school youth for life utilizing fun, proactive and experiential after-school programs. Lemonade Day (May 4, 2008) is a citywide event designed to teach Greater Houston area youth how to start, own and operate their own lemonade business. Lemonade Day teaches Houston’s youth about entrepreneurship in a fun and hands-on way and raises money for other after-school programs sponsored by Prepared 4 Life.

GET GREEN ON EARTH DAY AT THE HOUSTON ZOO

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

GET GREEN ON EARTH DAY AT THE HOUSTON ZOO PRESENTED BY WASTE MANAGEMENT APRIL 19 AND 20 It’s a Party for the Planet and you’re invited! Featuring FREE electronics recycling drop-off from Sony and WM Media Note: A high resolution Earth Day graphic is available for your unrestricted use. Please contact Brian Hill at 713.533.6531 (office) or 281.380.5232 (cell) for delivery options. See the accompanying event list for a complete entertainment schedule. Media covering Earth Day at the Houston Zoo presented by Waste Management may enter the Zoo at Gate One, 1513 N. MacGregor to access parking and transportation to the event site. (HOUSTON) April 7, 2008 - Go green on April 19 and 20 when you paws for Earth Day at the Houston Zoo presented by Waste Management. Join the Houston Zoo and Waste Management from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day for informative keeper chats and intriguing animal enrichment activities utilizing recycled materials, fun crafts for kids, entertainment with a green...

RARE MONKEY BORN AT HOUSTON ZOO

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:45:00 GMT

Media Note: A high resolution JPEG image of the baby and his mother is available for your unrestricted use. Please contact Brian Hill for delivery options at 713-533-6531 (office) or 281-380-5232 (cell). (HOUSTON) March 31, 2008 … The Houston Zoo is proud to announce the birth of a rare monkey at Wortham World of Primates. The arrival of the Schmidt’s red tailed guenon baby marks the first birth of the species at the Zoo in 29 years. The new arrival is a boy and his name is Matani, said primate supervisor Dena Strange. Matani (Pron: muh-TAN-ee) means ‘strength’ in Swahili and the baby is living up to his name. He’s very strong and healthy. His mother, Malaika is being a great mom, added Strange. The baby’s father, Kabili arrived at the Zoo in 2006 with several other monkeys recovered from the bushmeat and illegal pet trade in Africa. This is and important birth for the Houston Zoo and the species, said Strange. We haven’t had a guenon birth at the Zoo in 29 years and this is...

HOUSTON ZOO ORANGUTANS AND ELEPHANTS

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 16:00:00 GMT

Pongos Helping Pongos: Paintings by Orangutans for Orangutans March 29, 2008 at G Gallery in the Heights Media Note: High resolution images of the artists and the art work are available for your unrestricted use. Interviews with primate and elephant keepers may also be scheduled at your convenience. For more information, please contact Brian Hill at 281-380-5232 (cell) or 713-533-6531 (office). (HOUSTON) March 3, 2008 … Rudi takes time to choose his colors and prefers cardboard tubes instead of paint brushes. Kelly likes to apply paint to canvas using lengths of bamboo or ginger. Cheyenne and Elok will use brushes but have developed an intriguing finger painting style. Solaris usually ends up wearing as much paint as ends up on the canvas. Despite his blustery demeanor, Doc’s images seem to indicate a gentle soul hiding behind all the bravado. The artists have two things in common: they all create their images at the Houston Zoo’s Wortham World of Primates; and they are all...

AZA GRANTS ACCREDITATION TO HOUSTON ZOO

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 18:00:00 GMT

(HOUSTON) March 7, 2008 … The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) today announced that the Houston Zoo was granted accreditation by AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission. The Zoo has been accredited since 1989 when it was first recognized by the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums, the predecessor of today’s AZA. The AZA sets exceptionally high standards in all areas of our operations, from animal care to guest experience and everything in between, said Sharon Joseph, VP of Animal Programs at the Houston Zoo. AZA accreditation affirms and recognizes the efforts of the entire Zoo staff to uphold and exceed those standards. We’re very proud of our staff and the support we receive from the community and our board members, added Joseph. The Houston Zoo has made enormous strides in the last five years of its operation under the non-profit Houston Zoo, Inc., said Houston Zoo board chairman Jonathan Day. It’s gratifying to have this progress recognized...

The National Elephant Center unveils a bold new initiative for global elephant conservation

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 16:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON (Feb.7, 2008) — A new model for excellence in elephant care and conservation is a reality today as The National Elephant Center announced plans to create a national elephant conservation center in central Florida made possible, in part, by Waste Management’s involvement. The facility will be under construction for several months with the first elephants expected to arrive in 2009. Elephants are among our most endangered animals in the world, and their future depends on innovative programs that integrate science, research, education and animal care expertise. The National Elephant Center will play a vital role in addressing the critical need for elephant population management and will be an international resource in elephant conservation, said Center Board President Mark C. Reed, and Executive Director of the Sedgwick County Zoo. Waste Management’s support of the project, including its nominal lease to the Center of the land, will help provide a perfect home for our...

GO WILD FOR LOVE AT THE HOUSTON ZOO'S VALENTINE'S DINNER

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 20:00:00 GMT

(HOUSTON) January 16, 2008 … For some birds, choosing a mate has a lot do to with which guy has the best nest construction skills. For sea horses and some cranes it’s all about the dance. And for male crocodiles it’s who is best at blowing bubbles in the water. Explore the world of animal mating and dating and have a naturally wild Valentine’s Day when you bring your sweetheart to the Houston Zoo’s Wild for Love Valentine’s event on Thursday, February 14 at 7 p.m. in the Brown Education Center. Adults, (ages 21+) join us at the Houston Zoo for a romantic experience you won’t forget. Following a special champagne dinner, Zoo Director Rick Barongi and Director of Conservation and Science Bill Konstant will tell you all about dating and mating in the animal world. If you think our species is a mystery, try to decipher the dance of the Red-crowned crane or determine when a female lion is in the mood. From courtship to consummation, species cloaked in fur, feathers, and scales indulge in...

HOUSTON ZOO HOSTS 2008 TEXAS WILDLIFE DIVERSITY CONFERENCE

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 14:00:00 GMT

(HOUSTON) January 10, 2008 … Are black bears coming back to East Texas? How are exotic invasive species affecting native Texas plans and animals? Are roads and highways having an effect on amphibian and reptile populations? Find out the answers to these questions and be a part of the implementation of the Texas Wildlife Action Plan during the 2008 Texas Wildlife Diversity Conference at the Houston Zoo’s Brown Education Center January 17 through January 19, 2008. Get complete details and register on-line when you visit www.houstonzoo.org/twdc2008/. Texas State Director for The Nature Conservancy Carter Smith, soon to be Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Executive Director will open the Conference with remarks on partnership building Thursday, January 17 at 1:20 p.m. A highly respected conservationist, Mr. Smith understands the conservation challenges for a rapidly growing and changing state. His address will provide a unique perspective to the goals of the Texas Wildlife Action...

RING IN THE YEAR OF THE FROG WITH THE HOUSTON ZOO

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 16:00:00 GMT

(HOUSTON) January 7, 2008 ... The Houston Zoo joins zoos and aquariums around the world declaring 2008 the Year of the Frog. Amphibian populations are declining at an alarming rate in many different countries. If you haven’t heard about the global amphibian crisis, get a first hand introduction from three of the world’s top experts on Thursday evening January 31, 2008 at 7 p.m. in the Brown Education Center when the Houston Zoo’s 2008 Wildlife Lecture Series continues with Year of the Frog, sponsored by the Tapeats Fund and Continental Airlines. A recent assessment of the world’s 5,000-plus amphibian species indicates that nearly a third of all frogs, toads and salamanders are threatened with extinction. Joe Mendelson (Zoo Atlanta), Ron Gagliardo (Atlanta Botanical Garden), and the Houston Zoo’s Edgardo Griffith are among the world’s amphibian experts on the front lines in the battle to save these endangered creatures. Hear first hand accounts of their exploits in the jungles of...

12 DAYS OF HOLIDAY GIVING AT THE HOUSTON ZOO

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 15:00:00 GMT

(HOUSTON) November 29, 2007 … It’s that time of year once again when our thoughts turn to gift giving. No doubt family tops your gift giving thoughts. But at the Houston Zoo it’s that furry, feathery, slithery time of year when our gift giving thoughts turn to our Zoo family. Everybody enjoys a surprise gift now and then, and Houston Zoo animals are no different. From December 12 to December 24, give an enrichment gift to your favorite Houston Zoo resident or bring a new, unwrapped toy for donation to the Salvation Army and get a coupon good for one free child’s Zoo admission ticket when you purchase an adult ticket at the regular price. Enrichment is an important part of animal life at the Houston Zoo, so we’re always accumulating as many enrichment items as we can buy or that the public is generous enough to donate, says Hollie Colahan, the Curator of Primates and Carnivores and the Zoo’s Enrichment Coordinator. At the Zoo we use enrichment to encourage natural,...

HAVE BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AT THE HOUSTON ZOO

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 14:00:00 GMT

(HOUSTON) November 14, 2007 … The holidays have officially arrived and Santa has added the Houston Zoo to his list of destinations! Meet Jolly Old St. Nick and his animal friends when you make plans to attend the Houston Zoo’s annual Breakfast with Santa at the Houston Zoo December 15 and 22 at the Houston Zoo’s Brown Education Center (Two seatings: 8 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. to Noon.). Begin your family holiday Zoo adventure early with a scrumptious hot breakfast. Santa’s breakfast menu includes fluffy scrambled eggs, bacon, hash browns, and French toast. Since Santa’s elves are pretty busy this time of year, zoo keepers will be on hand accompanied by some special furry guests for everyone to meet. Children can get up close and personal with one of the rarest specimens of all – Santa – and receive a special holiday goodie bag. Space is limited so register early for Breakfast with Santa at the Houston Zoo. Tickets are $21 (adult, non-members), $17 (adult, members), $16.50...

HOUSTON ZOO HAS UNIQUE GIFT IDEAS FOR HOLIDAY GIVING

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 14:15:00 GMT

Give the Gift of Light and Unique Animal Art This Holiday Season Media Note: For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact Brian Hill at 713-533-6531 (voice) or 713-801-8040 (page). (HOUSTON) November 13, 2007 … Make the holiday season naturally wild when you do your shopping at the Houston Zoo. Whether you’re shopping for a family member, friend, teacher, or co-worker, you won’t want to miss our holiday specials and unique gift ideas. Had enough of loud ties, novelty gifts and Chia Pets? The Houston Zoo’s gift shop has something that is sure to be a hit with everyone on your shopping list including a wide variety of plush animals, clothing, books, toys and African and Central American arts and crafts. The Zoo’s special holiday offers include animal art and painting experiences, solar powered BOGO flashlights, Zoo memberships, and Adopt an Animal packages. Special holiday offers are valid until December 31, 2007 and may not be combined with any other offer. ...

SIFAKAS BOUNCE INTO NEW EXHIBIT AT THE HOUSTON ZOO

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:00:00 GMT

BOING! BOING! BOING! SIFAKAS BOUNCE INTO NEW EXHIBIT AT THE HOUSTON ZOO Media Note: Corrects typo in About Madagascar graph. Media wishing to arrange photo opportunities may contact Brian Hill at 713-533-6531 (voice), 281-380-5232 (cell). (HOUSTON) November 7, 2007 … Remember the pogo-stick? Decades ago children could be found bouncing their way across America’s sidewalks like spring-loaded kangaroos. Now imagine living in a tropical forest canopy and pogo-sticking your way from tree trunk to tree trunk. If you could do that you’d be a sifaka and you’d have a lot in common with the newest arrival to the Houston Zoo’s Wortham World of Primates. Dean and Zenobia Our new arrivals are Dean and Zenobia. Both are descendants of the seminal North American colony that was established in the early 1980s at the Duke Lemur Center in Durham, North Carolina. Dean is a five-year-old male who comes to Houston from the Los Angeles Zoo. Zenobia is a six-year-old female who recently arrived from...

HOUSTON ZOO PRESENTS THE ALL NEW ZOO BOO

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 16:00:00 GMT

Media Note: High resolution JPEG images are available for your unrestricted use. Please contact Brian Hill for delivery options. Media covering Zoo Boo may enter the Zoo at Gate One at 1513 N. MacGregor. Convenient parking and golf cart transportation for reporters and photographers will be provided. For more information, please contact Brian Hill at 713-533-6531 (voice), 281-380-5232 (cell) or 713-801-8040 (page). (HOUSTON) October 11, 2007 … This year, be afraid; be very afraid – that you might miss the all new Zoo Boo! Houston’s largest Halloween celebration is back—better than ever when the Houston Zoo presents Zoo Boo over two great weekends in October! Enjoy safe Halloween trick-or-treating, games and fun activities with a naturally wild twist Saturday and Sunday, October 20, 21, 27, 28 from 9am to 5pm. Pick a pumpkin to decorate from the Fiesta Mart Pumpkin Patch, enjoy the Monster Mashquerade, enter the Cooper Lighting House of Slither and walk the Lost Species Cemetery if...

COME HUNGRY AND FEAST WITH OUR BEASTS AT THE HOUSTON ZOO

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 01:15:00 GMT

Media Note: High resolution color Feast with the Beasts graphics are available via e-mail or FTP retrieval. Media covering Feast with the Beasts the day of the event may enter the Zoo at Gate One at 1513 N. MacGregor. For more information, please contact Brian Hill at 713-533-6531 (voice) or 281-380-5232 (cell). (HOUSTON) September 19, 2007 … The Houston Zoo brings back its most anticipated culinary event. Join us Friday October 12 from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. for the second annual Feast with the Beasts held in conjunction with the Houston Originals. Enjoy an evening of exotic culinary fare from Houston’s hottest independent restaurants and live performances on three entertainment stages, including Yvonne Washington and the Mix, Urbana and Nobodys Fool, all set against the Zoo’s naturally wild backdrop. It’s an evening you won’t want to miss! Not sure what will tempt your taste buds? Not to worry! Feast with the Beasts will feature 37 of Houston’s hottest independent...

RARE RED BIRD OF PARADISE HATCHED AT HOUSTON ZOO

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 01:00:00 GMT

Media Note: A high resolution JPEG image of the chick is available for your unrestricted use. Please contact Brian Hill for delivery options. (HOUSTON) September 13, 2007 … A rare red bird of paradise is being raised by its mother at the Houston Zoo. The chick hatched in the Zoo’s off exhibit breeding area following an incubation period of 17 days. The chick fledged 17 days after hatching. The breeding is the first at the Zoo since 1978. This is a significant birth for the Houston Zoo, said Houston Zoo Bird Curator Hannah Bailey. Only three other zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) have red bird of paradise. Of those three, only one other zoo has successfully bred the birds this year, added Bailey. The chick is being raised by its mother and is receiving a diet of fruit, meal worms and crickets, and a nutritionally balanced pellet food. Considered near-threatened in the wild, red birds of paradise are found on several small islands off the coast of...

HE'S NOT JUST A TON OF FUN MAC THE BABY ELEPHANT IS ALSO TURNING A YEAR OLD

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 01:00:00 GMT

Media Note: Media may enter the Zoo at Gate One at 1513 N. MacGregor. Convenient parking and transportation to the event site will be provided. For more information, please contact Brian Hill at 713-533-6531 (voice) or 281-380-5232 (cell) or Connie Barrera at 713-533-6719 (voice) or 713-962-6675 (cell). (HOUSTON) September 20, 2007 … The Houston Zoo is throwing a pachyderm party for baby Mac, and you’re invited! You won’t want to miss this BIG celebration on October 6, 2007 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It’s sure to be a fun time for all. Join us at our elephant exhibit and lend your voice as we sing Happy Birthday to Mac at 1 p.m. Then stick around afterward for some tasty treats. Our birthday guests will enjoy delectable cupcakes from Three Brothers Bakery, and Blue Bell ice cream cups. Be sure and sign a GIANT life-size birthday card created for Mac by one lucky winner of our Houston Zoo birthday card contest. The winner also receives a birthday party at the Houston Zoo for...

Baby North American Porcupine Born at Houston Zoo

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 21:00:00 GMT

HE’S LOOKIN’ SHARP!

He’s fuzzy and cute, in a prickly sort of way. As many Houstonians were watching the Gulf and tracking the progress of what was to become Hurricane Humberto, keepers in the Children’s Zoo were keeping their eyes on the newest arrival – a baby North American porcupine. The as-yet unnamed baby was born at approximately 5:30 a.m. on September 13 and weighed 649 grams or about 1 pound 7 ounces. He’s doing fine and gaining weight and keepers will vote on a name for the little guy soon. For now, he’s living in the Forest area of the McGovern Children’s Zoo with his mother Kendall and his father Cody and his sister Spike.

Porcupine Facts

North American porcupines are the second largest of all rodents. Adults can weigh from 10 to 40 pounds.
Porcupines are born with very soft quills that harden within a couple of hours after birth. The infants will nurse for 4 to 5 months but will begin eating solid food after two weeks.
Porcupines are strict vegetarians. Their diet consists of leaves, twigs, and green plants but they also chew through the outer bark of trees to eat the tender layer of wood below.
Masters of defense, adult porcupines protect themselves with 30,000 quills among the dark, coarse guard hairs on their back and tail. If attacked, contrary to popular belief, the porcupine does not throw its quills; instead, it drives its tail against the assailant and dozens of quills detach easily from the skin to remain embedded in the attacker.

Visit the photo gallery of the North American Porcupine.

NAME OF NEWEST HOUSTON ZOO ARRIVAL REVEALED

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 14:00:00 GMT

And the winner is --- Neema For the Baby Giraffe Born In August (HOUSTON) September 12, 2007 … Enough suspense. The guessing game is over. The name of the newest arrival at the Houston Zoo has finally been revealed. The name of the Masai giraffe born last month is – Neema! Over the past few weeks, more than 2,600 people logged on to www.houstonzoo.org and took a whack at guessing what name the keepers picked for our new giraffe. More than 1,200 correctly guessed Neema. And in a random drawing from those correct entries, Kathryn Doll was our winner of a Keeper of the Animals Adopt Kit for Neema’s dad, Kiva, and a family four-pack of tickets to the Zoo! Born August 12, 2007, Neema weighed in at 109 pounds. Since her mother Noel isn’t making enough milk, zoo keepers have been hand-raising Neema with a round the clock bottle feeding schedule. Even though keepers say she can sometimes be a picky eater, Neema now weighs 142 pounds. When she’s not taking a bottle she’s either napping or...

HOUSTON ZOO'S FALL 2007 LECTURE SERIES BEGINS SEPTEMBER 6

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 13:00:00 GMT

(Media Note: To arrange interviews with any of the speakers featured in the Houston Zoo’s Fall 2007 Lecture Series, please contact Brian Hill at 713-533-6531 (voice) or 713-801-8040 (page), or Connie Barrera at 713-962-6675 (cell) or 713-533-6719 (voice). (HOUSTON) August 27, 2007 … From rhinos and painted wolves, to exotic frogs and mole-rats, find out everything you ever wanted to know about some of the world’s most fascinating creatures during the Houston Zoo’s 2007 Wildlife Lecture Series. It all starts September 6, 2007, sponsored by the Tapeats Fund and Continental Airlines. Sign up for one, two or the entire series. Lectures are held in the Brown Education Center beginning promptly at 7:00 p.m. with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. For a complete list of prices, and to buy your tickets, visit www.houstonzoo.org/conservation and click on events. Return of the Rhinos Thursday, September 6, 2007 Grant Woodrow, Wilderness Safaris ...

ERA ENDS AT HOUSTON ZOO WITH PASSING OF LONG TIME RESIDENT Southern White Rhino Bu

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Sun, 19 Aug 2007 14:30:00 GMT

ERA ENDS AT HOUSTON ZOO WITH PASSING OF LONG TIME RESIDENT Southern White Rhino Bu Lived at the Zoo Since 1971 (HOUSTON) August 16, 2007 … An era that spanned four decades ended Thursday, August 16 with the passing of a long time Houston Zoo resident and gentle ambassador for his kind. Samburu, a Southern white rhino passed away early Thursday morning. Samburu, known as Bu to generators of zoo keepers and Zoo guests was 39 years old. The Galleria was one year old and the big news downtown was the opening of One Shell Plaza when Bu arrived at the Zoo on July 8, 1971 with a young female Southern white rhino named Marcibit, affectionately known as Marci to her keepers. Both Bu and Marci were born at the Umfolozi Game Reserve in South Africa. Marci passed away last March at age 38. Bu was 3 years old and Marci was 4 when they arrived at the...

New art at zoo can be found in unlikely place: Restrooms

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Sun, 19 Aug 2007 14:00:00 GMT

The front of each stall door in the new restroom facility near Duck Lake features the face of a rhino, zebra, mandrill, okapi, tiger or peacock. The corresponding backsides of those animals grace the interior sides of the stall doors.

Zoo officials have christened the new facility "When Nature Calls."

In addition to the artistic renderings, the facility features environmentally friendly, low-flush toilets.

Houston Zoo director Rick Barongi said he got the idea for the restrooms from the Denver Zoo. So far, the facility has gotten rave reviews from those needing a potty break. Kids, especially, squeal with delight.

"It's fun. It's quirky," said Barongi. "I don't think it will be insulting for people. It's not like someone mooning you."

HOUSTON ZOO SETS ATTENDANCE RECORD

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 20:00:00 GMT

(HOUSTON) July 16, 2007 … For the second time in three years, attendance at the Houston Zoo has exceeded 1.5 million guests. “More than 1,557,000 people visited the Zoo during the fiscal year just past, between July 1, 2006 and June 30 of this year. That figure represents a 10 percent increase over last year and the highest attendance since Houston Zoo, Inc. began managing the Zoo in 2002,” said Deborah Cannon, president and CEO. “These attendance figures speak volumes about the community’s support of the Zoo and we are extremely grateful,” added Cannon. “The ranks of Zoo members have also grown steadily over the past five years.” added Cannon. “In 2002 the Zoo had 14,000 member households. Today that number has grown to 29,000.” But increased total attendance is only a part of the total picture. “Last year almost 18 percent of those 1.5 million people enjoyed the Zoo free of charge, “said Cannon. “We have...

HOUSTON ZOO RECOGNIZED FOR SOUND FISCAL MANAGEMENT

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 19:00:00 GMT

(HOUSTON) July 11, 2007 … For the second year in a row, the Houston Zoo has received the top ranking – four out of a possible four stars - from Charity Navigator, the nation’s premier charity evaluator. “The four star rating is Charity Navigator’s highest ranking and we are honored to receive this recognition for a second straight year,” said Houston Zoo President and CEO Deborah Cannon. “Less than fifteen percent of the charities we’ve rated have received at least two consecutive 4-star ratings,” said Trent Stamp, executive director of Charity Navigator. “This indicates that the Houston Zoo outperforms most charities in America in its efforts to operate in the most fiscally responsible way possible. This ‘exceptional’ rating from Charity Navigator differentiates Houston Zoo from its peers and proves that it’s worthy of the public’s trust,” added Stamp. Charity Navigator is the largest...

LUCKY GUEST WALKS AWAY WITH $1,000 PRIZE AT HOUSTON ZOO

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 18:00:00 GMT

(HOUSTON) July 10, 2007 … She came. We saw. She won! And all she had to do was stand in line. Martha Sexton will always remember her first trip to the Houston Zoo. Martha was the 1,000th Zoo visitor on Tuesday morning, July 10. Standing in line with her family, Martha didn’t know that Tuesday was going to be her lucky day. As the 1,000th Zoo visitor Martha instantly won a $1,000 shopping spree at Gallery Furniture. The contest, sponsored by the Zoo and Gallery Furniture was held in honor of Mac, the Zoo’s 10 month old baby Asian elephant hitting the 1,000 pound mark. “I was so surprised and so happy,” said Martha, a resident of Jennings, Louisiana. “This was the first trip to the Houston Zoo for my family and me. We were just counting on having a good time, not winning $1,000,” added Martha. Houston Zoo President and CEO Deborah Cannon presented the prize to the lucky winner as Zoo staff and volunteers dressed in animal costumes crowded...

HOUSTON ZOO'S 4th ANNUAL BACK TO SCHOOL BASH

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 14:00:00 GMT

(HOUSTON) July 12, 2007 … Come to the Houston Zoo and help make a difference during our 4th annual back to school bash…”Operation School Supplies.” The annual campaign, hosted by the Houston Zoo, helps provide new school supplies for elementary students in need throughout the greater Houston area. The summer celebration happens Saturday, July 21 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Zoo patrons are encouraged to donate new pencils, paper, crayons, glue, and scissors at the Zoo gate and receive $1 off a child’s admission. Take a spin on the Carousel with H. E. Buddy from H-E-B and Shasta the cougar from the University of Houston. The collected school supplies will be added to donations made to Operation School Supplies during a four-week campaign going on now through August 8. In addition to the Houston Zoo sponsors include the Houston Alumni Organization, Houston Coca-Cola Bottling Company, H-E-B, United Way, FOX 26/MY 20, Sunny 99.1, MEGA 101, Houston Community...

COOL OFF AND SAVE MONEY DURING SUMMER SAFARI DAYS AT THE HOUSTON ZOO

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 15:00:00 GMT

Enjoy the Dog Days of Summer with African Wild Dogs Media Note: Media may enter the Zoo at Gate One at 1513 N. MacGregor. Convenient parking and golf cart transportation for reporters and photographers will be provided. For more information, please contact Brian Hill at 713-533-6531 (voice) or 281-380-5232 (cell) or Connie Barrera at 713-533-6719 (voice) or 713-962-6675 (cell). (HOUSTON) July 5, 2007 … The Houston Zoo is the place to be this summer! Where else can you have fun, cool off, see the most amazing animals on the globe – and save some cash all at the same time? That’s right! Beginning July 9, join us at the Zoo as we kick-off our Summer Safari and save $4 after 4 p.m. What a great way to beat the humid Houston heat! But that’s not all! Join The African Experience Summer Safari Sweepstakes for your chance to win an exotic safari for two to Botswana, Africa from the African Experience. Plus, weekly winners will win a camera from Ritz Camera. (Entry...

WALK AWAY WITH $1,000 AT THE HOUSTON ZOO

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 13:00:00 GMT

Media Note: Media may enter the Zoo at Gate One at 1513 N. MacGregor. Convenient parking and golf cart transportation for reporters and photographers will be provided. For more information, please contact Brian Hill at 713-533-6531 (voice) or 281-380-5232 (cell) or Connie Barrera at 713-533-6719 (voice) or 713-962-6675 (cell). (HOUSTON) July 3, 2007 … The Houston Zoo is celebrating big – $1,000 big! Our prized pachyderm has packed on 1000 pounds and that means $1,000 for one lucky Houston Zoo guest. On Tuesday, July 10, 2007, find out what it’s like to gain 1,000 when the 1,000th person to enter the Zoo wins a $1,000 shopping spree at Gallery Furniture. In honor of our baby elephant, Mac, Mattress Mack will be on-hand to surprise our lucky guest. You won’t want to miss the excitement as the Houston Zoo and Mattress Mack congratulate the “big” winner. Mac was born October 1, 2006 at 4:30 a.m. Weighing in at 384 pounds, he’s...

ROLL A STRIKE OR PICK UP A SPARE FOR RHINOCEROS CONSERVATION

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 13:00:00 GMT

Media Note: High resolution JPEG or PDF of this year’s Bowling for Rhinos logo is available for your unrestricted use. To acquire via e-mail, please contact Brian Hill at 713-533-6531 (office) or 281-380-5232 (cell). (HOUSTON) July 2, 2007… If you like bowling and you’ve got a soft spot in your heart for rhinos, then the Houston Zoo has a deal for you! What could be better on a warm summer evening than bowling with your friends, having fun, and contributing to the conservation of one of the world’s most endangered species – all at the same time! The Houston Zoo chapter of the American Association of Zookeepers (AAZK) is sponsoring the 17th Annual Bowling for Rhinos (BFR) conservation fundraiser on Friday, July 20 from 6-9 p.m. at AMF Bunker Hill Lanes, 925 Bunker Hill Rd. The night includes unlimited bowling for three hours, a cool BFR 2007 event T-shirt, free shoe and ball rental, and fun for the whole family. Tickets are $25 per person....

ES UNA AVENTURA, AMIGOS! AN ADVENTURE, MY FRIENDS!

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 20:15:00 GMT

Media Note: Media may enter the Zoo at Gate One at 1513 N. MacGregor. Convenient parking and golf cart transportation for reporters and photographers will be provided. For more information, please contact Brian Hill at 713-533-6531 (voice) or 281-380-5232 (cell) or Connie Barrera at 713-533-6719 (voice) or 713-962-6675 (cell). (HOUSTON) June 12, 2007 … ¡Al rescate, amigos! To the rescue, my friends! Nick Jr.’s favorite rainforest expert is making his way to the Houston Zoo! When Diego is not rescuing animals, you can find him in Houston meeting and greeting his biggest pint-sized fans! Come to the Houston Zoo for a fun-filled day from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m., Saturday, June 23. Zoo guests will have a chance to win a grand prize family four-pack of tickets to the performance, Go Diego Go Live! The Great Jaguar Rescue!, presented by State Farm Insurance® Friday, July 13th, as well as Meet and Greet passes! Dora and Diego prize packs will also be given away...

HOUSTON ZOO AND FIESTA MART LAUNCH DISCOUNT TICKET INITIATIVE

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 20:00:00 GMT

(HOUSTON) June 21, 2007 … The Houston Zoo and Fiesta Mart are joining forces to help families stretch their recreation dollars through the summer and beyond. Beginning July 1, Houstonians can purchase discount Zoo tickets at any of the 33 Fiesta Mart stores across the Houston area. “We’re very excited about our partnership with Fiesta Mart and the opportunity this partnership offers to our guests,” said Houston Zoo President and CEO Deborah Cannon. “Fiesta Mart has a long tradition of supporting Houston nonprofit institutions and education programs and we are proud to have them join us in this initiative,” said Cannon. Beginning July 1, visit the courtesy booth of any Fiesta Mart in the Houston area to purchase an adult Zoo admission for $8 and a child Zoo admission for $4. Tickets will be valid for one year from the date of purchase. “Fiesta is very excited about working with the Zoo,” said Fiesta spokesperson Keith...

BROTHER BEARS CALL HOUSTON ZOO HOME

noemail@houstonzoo.org — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 16:15:00 GMT

(HOUSTON) … Two grizzly bears rescued by the Houston SPCA now call the Houston Zoo home. Grizzly bears have not had a presence at the Houston Zoo since the 1980’s. Our two new arrivals in May 2007 are among 11 bears and two tigers rescued by the Houston SPCA following their seizure by Gonzales County authorities last March. “They were living in crates barely big enough for them to turn around in a chicken barn on a small farm outside Gonzales, Texas,” said Carnivore and Primate Curator Hollie Colahan. But thanks to human intervention, and plenty of compassion, our brother bears have moved from their temporary home at the Houston SPCA and are exploring their new home at the Houston Zoo—and the Zoo is proud to have them here! Grizzly bears are a subspecies of brown bear and can be found in southern Canada and in the northern U.S. While they enjoy splashing around in streams and lakes, they stay more inland. So what do our grizzly friends enjoy munching...

SEA LIONS TO ADD NEW LAND AND AIR ELEMENTS TO THEIR DAILY SHOWS