1,000,000 Visitors and you helped! What a fantastic year it’s been! For the first time in the Zoo’s history, dating back to 1909, one million visitors passed through the gates in a single season. We couldn’t have done it without you, our members, which are now 30,000 households strong. To give you an idea of just how big this accomplishment is, out of 235 AZA accredited zoos and aquariums, only 25 to 30 reach or surpass the 1,000,000 attendance mark each year. It’s an incredible accomplishment for us! Visitorship has been on a steady incline for

the past 10 years. We’ve brought improvements to the Zoo each year starting with our remodeled Discovery Barn and Tropics and our short-cut to Africa. We followed that up with a remodeled front entrance which added the trumpeter swans and North American river otters. We’ve added the carousel, the African Sky Safari, overhauled one of the trains and added an additional tram for transportation to Africa. Polar Bear Passage opened in 2010 to strong reviews. After the Zoological District passed in Clay and Jackson County we quickly added Helzberg Penguin Plaza in 2013, Tuxedo Grill in 2014 and Orangutan Canopy in 2015. Koalas visiting from the San Diego Zoo this year created quite a stir — extremely high “cute” factor with those two!

Why stop there? Our momentum is still building. While one million visitors has always been a goal, it certainly isn’t the end. We’re busy working on future exhibits and new animals to continue to provide you with one of the best zoos in the world. Behind the scenes we’re analyzing exhibits that are a part of our Master Plan and we hope to make an announcement very soon on our next big project! We’re hoping you’ll be as excited about this one as you were about polar bears, penguins and orangutans! In the meantime we will continue to identify smaller projects that will make your Zoo visit more enjoyable.

One of these is a fun new exhibit on the north side of the Discovery Barn in the area where the camel ride used to be. “Billy Goats Gruff” will offer a new way to interact with our goats next season. You’ll be able to stroll through the area and watch the goats play in their new

playground; feeding machines will be available, too. We’re also refurbishing two of our trains: they’ll be glistening with their new paint jobs in 2017. We’re planning on doing interior work to the red panda exhibit, creating a better habitat space for them in their

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Zoo Mission: The Kansas City Zoo connects people to each other and the natural world to promote understanding, appreciation, and conservation.

OPEN DAILY!

ExpeditionsExpeditions 1ST

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2017

A quarterly publication of the Kansas City Zoo

Now through February9:30 a.m. through 4 p.m. Daily

March, April, May9:30 a.m. through 4 p.m. Monday–Friday9:30 a.m. through 5 p.m. Saturday–Sunday

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Stephanie Jackson and her daughters, our millionth guests in 2016.

From Polar Bears InternationalInternational Polar Bear Day is February 27th! Every year, this global event draws attention to the challenges polar bears face in a warming Arctic—and how we each can help. We invite you to celebrate with us by teaming up in your community to help keep the Arctic cold. Take our #ThermostatChallenge with your neighbors, schools, and businesses to save energy for polar bears—and then make it a habit:

· Turn down the heat a degree or two and enjoy winter coziness, for polar bears—put on your fuzzy slippers and a comfy sweater, light candles, sip a hot drink, or bundle up for a walk in the snow.

· In summer, set the air-conditioning thermostat higher.

· Install a programmable thermostat for year-round savings—and take additional energy-saving steps like adding insulation and weather-stripping windows and doors.

· Show how you’re taking part by posting photos on social media with #PolarBearDay, #ThermostatChallenge, #WinterCoziness.

The Polar Bear Connection

Using less energy produced by carbon-based fuels reduces our carbon emissions and can slow and even stop climate change, in turn saving our sea ice. Polar bears require sea ice for efficient hunting. Without sea ice, polar bears will decline in range and numbers, making them vulnerable to extinction in the future.

Did You Know?Heating and cooling account for roughly half the energy consumption in an average home, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

2 www.kansascityzoo.org

2017 Friends of the Zoo BOARD OF DIRECTORSChuck Caisley, Chairperson – KCP&L

Todd LaSala, Secretary Stinson, Leonard, Street LLP

Sal Montalbano, Treasurer PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP

Karen Begelfer, SprintSharon Cleaver, Boys & Girls Clubs

of Greater Kansas CityRod Crawford, Glazer’sWes Dixon, Keywest TechnologiesChris Egan, SMG ServicesWesley Fields, Bryan Cave LLPHayley Hanson, Husch Blackwell Howard Jacobson, Paragon Capital Mgmt, LLCMark Killen, American Century InvestmentsGayle Krigel, Community VolunteerYvette Miceli, Construction Brokers, Inc.Pat Murphy, Robert E. Miller GroupJohnathon Myers, Research Medical CenterJim Rine, UMB BankDean Rodenbough, Hallmark CardsMelissa Roe, Community VolunteerCiCi Rojas, Central ExchangeMary Sallee, Community VolunteerCarla Sanders, AMC TheatresTrish Sexton, PolsinelliKathy Smith, Community VolunteerTom Waggoner, HOKTom Wright, EPR PropertiesDavid Yeamans, Burns & McDonnell

Representing the City of Kansas City Allen Dillingham, Commissioner,

Board of Parks and RecreationAlissia Canady, City Council Mark McHenry, Director Parks and RecreationKevin McManus, City CouncilTroy Schulte, City Manager

Zoological District CommissionersRay Brock, Clay CountyMark McHenry, KC Parks and Recreation

RepresentativeJerry Nolte, Clay CountyKevin Pistilli, Jackson CountyDan Tarwater III, Jackson CountyRandy Wisthoff, KC Zoo Representative

Open daily, year round, closed only on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

www.KansasCityZoo.org816.595.1234

The Kansas City Zoo is a non-smoking environment except in designated areas which are indicated on the

Zoo Map and on grounds with signs and ash trays.

The Kansas City Zoo, a private, non-profit organization is operated in agreement with the Kansas City, MO Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners, partially funded by the Zoological District in Jackson and Clay Counties in MO, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

15Expeditions — 1st Quarter 2017

Zoo CalendarEvery month there are activities for all age groups.

MarchSat/Sun, Mar

11 & 1210 a.m.–2 p.m.

Zootastik Learning Fest: Very Important Pollinators Learn how pollinators are important to us and essential for many of the foods we love to eat! Discover what kinds of insects and birds are pollinators. Kids will have an opportunity to make “seed flower bombs” to take home to attract butterflies to their own backyard or school.

Sat/Sun, Mar

18 & 1910 a.m.–3 p.m.

Superhero Weekend It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s Superhero Weekend. Head out to the Zoo to meet your favorite super hero! Bring a camera and have your picture taken with Spider-Man and Star Lord on Saturday and Thor and Iron Man on Sunday. FOTZ Exclusive with Superheroes FOTZ members will have an exclusive super hero meet and greet from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Sat/Sun, Mar

18 & 1910:30 a.m.

Cheetah Run Gigi, the Zoo’s resident feline Olympian, loves to stretch her legs at the Cheetah Run. This enriching activity allows her to gain valuable exercise. Join us at the cheetah exhibit to watch one of nature’s fastest animals in action. (weather permitting)

Sat, Mar

2510 a.m.

FOTZ Exclusive Meet the CEO & Elephant Training Meet the man in charge and ask your most burning questions.

Sat/Sun, Mar

25 & 2610 a.m.–2 p.m.

Species Spotlights: Camels and Llamas Do camels really store water in their humps? How many toenails does a llama have? Find out the answers to these questions and many more at Species Spotlight. Join us for a Zookeeper chat on camels and llamas and check out the llama walk. Be sure to grab your camel and llama trading cards and collect them all year long at Species Spotlight.

Check out our calendar of events online at KansasCityZoo.org to find out more information and to make reservations or call 816.595.1234 for more assistance.

existing exhibit. Bluey’s, the restaurant overlooking the kangaroo yard, will be remodeled and themed as a “BBQ Joint.” Three new Allen’s swamp monkeys, the most recent arrivals at the Zoo, are housed where the koalas were this past season. Swamp monkeys are amazing primates and will provide lots and lots of activity in that building, quite a contrast from the extremely sleepy koalas.

More ideas and projects are on the horizon, so be sure and stop by often and check out your Zoo. Thanks so much for your support! The Zoo keeps getting better because of you.

1,000,000 Visitors — Continued from page 1 Zoo VisaCommerce Bank and the Kansas City Zoo have partnered to provide Zoo fans such as yourself the opportunity to support the Zoo with each of your purchases. When you apply online for a Kansas City Zoo Visa® Credit Card and make your first purchase within 90 days of opening your account, the Zoo will earn $35.00 and you will receive a Zany Zoo Packet containing:

(2) Round-trip tickets to ride the African Sky Safari

(1) Coupon for one free child admission with the purchase of two regular adult admissions when paying with your Kansas City Zoo Visa card

(1) $5 in Zoo Bucks valid anywhere in the Zoo

(1) Coupon for 10% off a one-time shopping spree in the Zoo’s gift shop

(1) Sumatran tiger photo with an invitation to an exclusive “Meet the Zookeeper” presentation

(1) $5 off a FOTZ membership when paying with your Kansas City Zoo Visa card

Stephanie Jackson, the one millionth visitor in 2016, and her family.

Thank you, Alexander Doniphan Elementary!Signs lining the hallways of Alexander Doniphan Elementary School read “Every dollar we raise helps the new baby orangutan at the Kansas City Zoo!” Every year the fifth grade students of the Liberty, MO school select a local organization to benefit from a school-wide fundraiser held in December. After learning about the Zoo’s conservation efforts during a ZooEd tour in November, three fifth grade classes decided to use their gift to adopt Dusty, the Zoo’s baby orangutan, through the Adopt a Wild Child program. Over two days, the students raised $3,443 in support of the education, conservation, animal care, and general operation needs of the Zoo. Thank you for the support!

Become Wildly Green!• Recycling one aluminum can saves enough energy to

run your TV for three hours! Once a can is recycled it can be a new aluminum can in six weeks.

• Over 500,000 trees could be saved each week if everyone recycled their Sunday newspaper. Only 27% of newspapers in the United States are recycled. If all newspapers were recycled we could save approximately 250,000,000 trees.

• Everything old can become new again with recycling: boxes, newspaper, junk mail, shoe boxes.

• About 75 percent of the water we use in our homes is used in the bathroom. Letting your faucet run for five minutes uses about as much energy as letting a 60-watt light bulb run for 14 hours.

• If all U.S. households installed water-efficient appliances, the country would save more than 3 trillion gallons of water and more than $18 billion dollars per year!

Zoo CalendarEvery month there are activities for all age groups.

February

Check out our calendar of events online at KansasCityZoo.org to find out more information and to make reservations or call 816.595.1234 for more assistance.

14 www.kansascityzoo.org 3Expeditions — 1st Quarter 2017

JanuarySat/Sun, Jan

7 & 814 & 1521 & 2228 & 29

11 a.m.

Penguin March See king and gentoo penguins up close at the Penguin March. Our cold weather birds will march from the back of the exhibit, outside for our guests to see and then back inside the building, weather permitting.

Sat/Sun, Jan

14 & 1510 a.m.–2 p.m.

Zootastik Learning Fest: Animal Adaptations Have you ever wondered how animals in the wild can survive the cold, heat or lack of food? Kids will learn lots of ways that animals adapt to their surroundings, including migration, camouflage and many others. Discover how different parts of the body are perfectly adapted to help them survive (bird beaks, types of feet, slime for frogs, elephant ears, etc.)

Sat/Sun, Jan

21 & 2210 a.m.–2 p.m.

Tropical Weekend Battle the winter blues with a Tropical Day at the Zoo! The temperatures are rising at our indoor exhibits. Animals in Discovery Barn, Tropics and Helzberg Penguin Plaza will enjoy tropical enrichment items. Where else can you experience a tropical getaway this far north of the equator?

Sat/Sun, Jan

21 & 2210:30 a.m.

Cheetah Run Gigi, the Zoo’s resident feline Olympian, loves to stretch her legs at the Cheetah Run. This enriching activity allows her to gain valuable exercise. Join us at the cheetah exhibit to watch one of nature’s fastest animals in action. (weather permitting)

Sat/Sun, Jan

28 & 2910 a.m.–2 p.m.

Species Spotlight: Penguins We are shining the spotlight on penguins! Check out the feeding frenzy at the Helzberg Penguin Plaza. Our penguins will receive a large ice cube filled with krill and a live minnow feeding. The penguin-mania continues in the lobby where you can make a take-home craft and collect your penguin trading cards.

Sat/Sun, Feb

4 & 511 & 1218 & 1925 & 26

11 a.m.

Penguin March See King and Gentoo penguins up close at the Penguin March. Our cold weather birds will march from the back of the exhibit, outside for our guests to see and then back inside the building, weather permitting.

Sat, Feb

115:30 p.m.– 8:30 p.m.

Kiss & Tail It may be cold outside but we are turning up the heat at Kiss & Tail. Join us as we explore love in the animal kingdom. How do animals attract a mate and what happens when it’s time to get romantic? You may blush, you will definitely laugh and you might never look at some animals the same way again! Enjoy hors d’oeuvres and live music. Then get ready for an eye-opening presentation on jungle love. This adults-only Valentine’s event is sure to heat things up! Tickets are $35 for FOTZ members and $45 for Non-FOTZ.

Sat/Sun, Feb

11 & 1210 a.m.–2 p.m.

Zootastik Learning Fest: Animal Locomotion Animals move in many different ways – this is called animal locomotion. Animals can move on land, in water, or through the air. Join us to learn how animals move and what makes their specific locomotion unique.

Sat, Feb

1810 a.m.–2 p.m.

Teddy Bear Clinic Do you have a teddy bear or stuffed animal in need of some TLC? Bring your favorite friends to the Teddy Bear Clinic and let the volunteers from Kansas City Young Matrons nurse them back to health. We will fix rips, tears and holes and give them a good fluff. Once they are back in tip-top shape, they will receive a clean bill of health.

Sat/Sun, Feb

18 & 1910:30 a.m.

Cheetah Run Cheetahs are the fastest land animal and Gigi our resident feline will give chase to a lure at our monthly cheetah run. Join us at the cheetah exhibit to see one of the world’s top athletes demonstrate what makes her the world champ. (weather permitting)

Sat/Sun, Feb

25 & 2610 a.m.–2 p.m.

Species Spotlight: Polar Bears In celebration of International Polar Bear Day, we are turning the spotlight on our polar gal pal, Berlin. Watch her devour giant ice treats and then then stick around to hear Zookeepers share fun facts about Berlin. The Polar Bear Passage will be full of polar-rific fun! Touch polar bear biofacts and learn how you can help polar bears in the wild from our docents. Be sure to grab your Berlin trading cards and collect them all year long at Species Spotlight.

Chimpanzee ChangesIt’s been a very exciting year for our chimpanzee troop. Milo, whose second birthday is March 27, was joined by his niece Ruw on April 1. After Milo’s mother’s passing he was taken in by many of the females of the troop and has grown to be a very healthy young chimp. Ruw’s mother Teeoni wasn’t raising her successfully and Zoo staff made the decision to hand rear her until she could be safely reunited with the rest of her extended family.

Over the weeks and months, Zookeepers have worked tirelessly around-the-clock, to care for Ruw in the hope that she would return to the troop and be adopted by the adult females. We’re happy to report that the reintroductions have been successful and she is being cared for by several females in the troop. Ruw is eating more solid foods now such as lettuce, fruit, vegetables and specially formulated primate biscuits, but is still receiving a bottle of formula from the Zookeepers three times per day. She continues to grow and learn how to be a chimp from her surrogate mother and spends time playing and wrestling with Milo.

In addition, we’ve added an another adult male to the troop. Bahati is 30 years old and came to us from the Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa, Florida. He’s quite impressive in size but currently seems to prefer the company of our male chimpanzees to that of the females. Introductions to the group have been slow to allow all of the animals time to adjust and adapt to the new social dynamics. Because of this, you may see smaller groups of chimpanzees at any one time

as some animals are behind the scenes becoming acquainted.

Through all of this, the Zookeepers have done a terrific job with behavioral husbandry training with the entire troop of chimps. All of the adults received their yearly influenza (flu) vaccinations by presenting their shoulders when asked and holding still while the Zookeepers gave them their shot. This wouldn’t happen without the trust and care that our staff shares with them.

Vision: The Kansas City Zoo, with its world-class exhibits and exceptional programs, attracts visitors from around the world and families from close to home.

Teddy Bear ClinicDoes your child’s fluffy friend need a little TLC? Visit the Zoo on Feb 18 from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. while the “Registered Plush Practitioners” of the Kansas City Young Matrons fluff and stuff your child’s best friend. They’ll be restored to tip-top shape and be sent home with a clean bill of health from the Zoo Director.

Animal Ear Muffs!Native to the deserts of Africa, meerkats have unique flaps of skin around their ears to keep sand out while digging. Visit our meerkats this winter in the Discovery Barn.

Save the Date Jazzoo 2017! Take advantage of discounted Jazzoo tickets, enjoy reduced pricing to the largest and wildest fundraiser of the year on June 2, 2017. Normally priced at $175 each, you can buy them for $150. Don’t delay — this special offer ends on February 15, 2017.

Zoo Education EventsJoin FOTZ Today!Renew before 3/31 and save $5!

Science Adventure Club has a NEW NAME!No worries, preschool friends! Science Adventure Club is still here! For all of you fun-loving, animal-crazed kids, the Kansas City Zoo would like to introduce… Critter Club! It’s the same great program, same phenomenal teachers and same awesome time. Enjoy an hour of nature and animal themed programming that includes a lesson, activity, story time, craft, animal encounter and carousel ride. Pre-registration is highly recommended because spaces are limited! We will see you each week, Wednesday or Thursday, for a fun- filled hour of CRITTER AWESOMENESS!

Pre-School Programs Children Ages 3-5 are welcome!Critter Club — Previously known as Science Adventure Club Wednesdays and Thursdays, Jan 18–March 30 11 a.m.–Noon Cost: $5 per child; FOTZ Members receive a 10% discountJoin us for an educational hour of programming geared to the youngest Zoo fans. Laugh, learn and play with themes showcasing the natural world. Each week has a different them so be sure to catch them all! Pre-registration is suggested. Classes are held Wednesdays & Thursdays, January 18–March 30.

Goodnight Zoo Cost: $20 per child; $5 per adult; FOTZ Members receive a 10% discountEnjoy a night of exploration stations, songs, educational games and activities, themed lessons, crafts, a snack, and animal encounters at the Zoo. You can wear your jammies and even bring your favorite stuffed animal. All children must be accompanied by an adult and pre-registration is required.

Transformers — March 18 5 p.m.–7 p.m.Spring has sprung. And that means life is back in action. Check out all of the animals that change as they grow. Whether you are a butterfly or frog…METAMORPHOSIS is on!

Zoo CampsRegistration is now open for our School’s Out and Spring Break Day Camps. Camp runs 8:30am-3:30 pm with after-care options until 5:30pm for an additional $ 15 fee. You can expect animal encounters, tours, and other great, age-appropriate activities during your camp adventure. Book now before they are full! Scholarships are available. For more information, visit www.kansascityzoo.org/programs/day-camps/.

School’s Out CampsAges 6–12Cost: $50 per child; FOTZ Members receive a 10% discount

Jan 2 — Marine MysteriesExplore the mysteries of the deep and discover what secrets the ocean holds.

Jan 3 — Cliff ClimbersAnimals live in all sorts of habitats — grasslands, deserts, oceans and more. But who survives on a side of a cliff? Join us as we find out who and why.

Jan 16 — Alien InvadersThese aliens aren’t from outer space but they’re definitely not from around here. Invasive species are fast-growing pesky plants and animals that normally live somewhere else; but once they move in, it’s “game over” for native plants and animals.

Feb 20 — Animal CannibalsAnimals eat all sorts of things from only plants, only meat or a little bit of both. But what about animals that eat their own kind?

March 13 — Animal ArchitectsFrom grass huts to treetop penthouses, the animal kingdom has some “master builders” among their ranks. Explore what and why some animals love to construct.

March 14 — Scoop On PoopPOOP. It’s gross; we all do it; so let’s learn about it. Believe it or not, you can learn a lot about an animal just from examining their poop.

Spring Break CampAges 6–12Cost: $150 per child; FOTZ Members receive a 10% discount

March 15–17 — Family TiesFamily is important, but how important is it to animals? Discover dynamic dads, the makings of magnificent moms and the solidarity of going solo. Scholarships are available. For more information, visit www.kansascityzoo.org/programs/day-camps/.

Summer CampsSummer will be here before we know it! If your animal enthusiast wants to have fun this summer as well as get the inside scoop about the Zoo’s amazing creatures, check out these awesome opportunities. Summer camp registration opens February 13, 2017. Scholarships are available. For more information, visit www.kansascityzoo.org/programs/day-camps/.

Storybook Safari 4–5 yr olds (Half Day)Our ½ day camps are specifically designed for our youngest fans who haven’t quite made it to school yet. Join us for a Storybook Safari as we learn about animals both in real life and on the pages of some of our favorite books. Camp includes exciting classroom activities/crafts, personal zoo tours and animal encounters.

Zoofari Adventures 5–12 yr olds (Full Day)Spend your summer at the zoo. Our 5-Day Camps are jam-packed with fun and exciting classroom activities/experiments, personal zoo tours and animal encounters. Discover life in the dark, the strange and crazy things animals do, and why camouflage is so important for both predators and prey! Sign up for one week or several. Topics vary from week to week.

Junior Zoologist Camp 13–15 yr olds (Full Day)If you are interested in animals, science, or maybe even a Zoo Career some day, then this is the camp for you. Explore the world of animals, biology, conservation and much more.

Most education events require a reservation. To register, please visit kansascityzoo.org/education or call 816.595.1765.

4 www.kansascityzoo.org 13Expeditions — 1st Quarter 2017

ACA certification means the Zoo’s camps have met or

exceeded industry standards of excellence in over 300 categories.

Are you a current FOTZ member renewing your membership?

Yes, ID number?____________________________________ No

Basic Rides TOTAL

Individual Plus Level $39 $89 Non-Zoological District pricing $71 $121

Family Level $59 $139 Non-Zoological District pricing $119 $203

Sustaining Level $99 $219 Non-Zoological District pricing $179 $299

Gorilla Adventurer $500

Elephant Conservationist $1000

Penguin Patron $2500

Additional Contribution to Conservation

Renewing before March 31? Save $5! (if yes, deduct $5)

Using your KC Zoo Credit Card Save $5! (if yes, deduct $5)

TOTAL PAYMENT

Joining FOTZ is easy! Sign up online at kansascityzoo.org, call 816-595-1234 or fill out the form below and return it to: Kansas City Zoo FOTZ Memberships, 6800 Zoo Drive, Kansas City, MO 64132. 2017 Memberships are valid through March 31, 2018.

The earlier you purchase, the

more FREE visits to the Zoo you can enjoy!

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If you are purchasing a family membership or above, please let us know the number of dependent children or grandchildren under the age of 18:______

Payment: Check (to FOTZ) KC Zoo Credit Card Visa MC Discover AMEX

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If this membership is a gift, please list the gift recipient information to the above with your payment information and your contact information below:

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Please send membership to: Me Gift Recipient

Tax Deductible—Your donation is tax deductible. Please consult with your professional tax advisor as to the specific deductibility of your gift based on your personal financial situation.

Swamp MonkeysThree energetic Allen’s swamp monkeys have joined the Kansas City Zoo and can be found near Helzberg Penguin Plaza. These adorable primates have adaptations that make them unique and they’re first-time residents of the Kansas City Zoo. Hailing from the swampy forests of central Africa, swamp monkeys have partially webbed fingers and toes that enable them to swim underwater in search of food. Extremely social animals, in their native habitat groups of up to 40 individuals live alongside each other, always on the lookout for predators and warning their troop of danger.

Our group consists of one male and two females and is recommended to breed by the AZA Species Survival Plan. Currently, there are 54 Allen’s Swamp Monkeys at 14 AZA accredited Zoos. In the future we hope this group will successfully raise young at the Zoo and contribute to the overall population of this charming species of monkey.

12 www.kansascityzoo.org 5Expeditions — 1st Quarter 2017

2017 FOTZ Membership

FOTZ only events & hours

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ADMISSION until March 31, 2018

20% Discount on Food & Beverage and Gift Shop for Rides Level; 10% discount for Basic Level

Pays for

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150 accredited Zoos and Aquariums

Purchase your FOTZ Membership Today!

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Thank You, FOTZ Members!Please consider giving the gift of a FOTZ membership this year; 2017 memberships are available now. Renewing members will receive a $5 discount with purchase before March 31, 2017 when all 2016 memberships expire.

FOTZ memberships have great benefits. One benefit is this “Expeditions” newsletter. This free quarterly publication is designed to inform and educate you — our most dedicated fans. Thank you for your continued support!

ZLD Animal Spotlight:Each issue, we bring you information about the animal ambassadors the Zoo uses for outreach programing. While not on public exhibit, these animals are vital to our mission of connecting people with nature.

Blue the ChinchillaScientific Name: Chinchilla lanigera

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered

Habitat: Mountains of Northern Chile

Appearance: These wildly recognized rodents are famous for their extraordinarily soft gray fur, rounded ears and bushy tail.

What’s on the Menu: Technically omnivores, they feed primarily on seeds and grasses. They also eat a variety of other vegetation, insects and bird eggs in the wild. At the Zoo, they are fed hay and a pelleted diet formulated for chinchillas, along with treats of vegetables and some fruits.

Staying Safe: Chinchillas are primarily nocturnal and emerge at night to feed. During the day, chinchillas shelter in crevices and holes in the rocks of their mountainous habitat. Widely hunted by humans for their fur, their populations are fragmented in Chile.

Reproduction: After a relatively long 111 day gestation period females give birth to two or three fully furred young with their eyes already open.

Life Span: Wild 10 years; Domestic up to 20 years.

Girl Scout WorkshopsCost: $15 per scout; FOTZ Members receive a 10% discount

Attention all Scout Leaders! Leave the scouting to us. Earn requirements toward badges or journeys by scheduling a Zoo Scout Workshop. Workshops are available for Daisies, Brownies, and Juniors. Make it a really wild scouting adventure and turn your workshop into a sleepover with the Zoo overnight option.

10 a.m.–NoonDaisies Jan 14, Feb 11, March 11 & Apr 8

Brownies March 4 & Apr 1

Juniors Feb 4 & Apr 1

OvernightsAges: 6 and up Cost: $ 33-45; FOTZ Members receive a 10% discount

After the sun sets and the lights go out, do the Zoo’s animals stay awake? Attend a Zoo Overnight and experience the Zoo in a whole new light, err, dark! Learn about animals and have fun in the moonlight with great activities, animal encounters and a night hike. Breakfast is included. Space is limited so reserve your spot today!

7 p.m.–8:30 a.m. Jan 6 PenguinFeb 10 Polar BearMarch 4 Penguin

First Lego League has gone to the Animals!

KC Zoo has partnered with KC STEM Alliance to kick off the First Lego League (FLL) 2016 competition. FIRST® LEGO® League is an

international program that introduces children to science and technology in a sporty atmosphere. Their objectives are to make

children enthusiastic about science and technology, equip them with the idea of team spirit, and encourage them to solve complex tasks in a creative way. The FLL theme changes annually and 2016’s Animal Allies theme was a “purr”fect fit for the Zoo.

Teams were tasked with: 1) identifying a problem where people and animals interact 2) designing a solution that makes the interaction better for animal, people or both and 3) sharing their problem and solution with others. KC Zoo staff served as animal experts and answered teams’ questions on November 12th. Teams create their solutions and presentations and then compete for a qualifying spot at the state competition. The KC Zoo will host a practice/mock judging session on Jan 7th for qualifying teams in order to prepare them for the final competition which will be held January 14th.

KC Zoo is proud to partner with KC STEM Alliance in this unique, engaging, fun, student-centered opportunity.

6 www.kansascityzoo.org 11Expeditions — 1st Quarter 2017

Birthday PartiesLooking for a hassle-free fun venue for your birthday party? Why not have it at the Zoo? The Kansas City Zoo has two great birthday options that will make your special day ZOO-rific. Each party includes a private room, cupcakes, ice cream and lemonade/water for up to 16 children. The best part of all is that we take care of all the preparations and cleanup. All you have to do is show up and have FUN! Food and entertainment additions are also available for an additional fee. Call us at 816.595.1765 to discuss how we can make your birthday the best day of the year!

Birthday Parties are available most Saturdays and Sundays starting at 9:30am, noon and 2:30pm. Tiny Tykes birthday are open to children ages 1-2 and last one hour. Other parties are for children ages 3 and older, lasting 1.5 hours.

Who knew that giving back could be so much fun!Are you looking for a way to give back to your community? There are many opportunities to help at the Kansas City Zoo that are exciting, rewarding and fun! Here is a sample of our volunteer programs:

Animal Volunteers work under the direct supervision of the Animal Care staff. They will perform routine work assignments involving the care of Zoo animals and the maintenance of Zoo exhibits and enclosures, and may also participate in research and/or behavioral studies. Animal volunteers must be age 18 or older and are required to go through an extensive interview process to ensure a match to the program’s needs. Proof of a negative TB test is also required prior to volunteering.

Guest Ambassadors greet and assist Zoo visitors by answering their questions and directing them to various attractions, making suggestions for more satisfying visits, and assisting in Guest Services as needed. Guest Ambassadors also volunteer for special events that occur throughout the year. Special event duties can include escorting mascots during the event, crowd and line control, handing out promotional items to guests, assisting with crafts and children’s activities, and helping with setup and tear-down.

Team Habitat volunteers assist with projects for all the departments at the Zoo. Projects range from light physical duty such as planting bulbs and painting doors, to more physically challenging projects such as moving deadfall, cleaning/reorganizing Zoo areas after big special events, pruning and clearing brush.

ZooScaper volunteers assist with projects for the Horticultural Department. Examples of projects include planting, weeding, mulching and watering.

Zoo Docents spend their time interpreting at exhibits and facilitating tours. Docent volunteers deliver conservation messages that impact visitors and guide them to conservation action. These messages reflect a concern and respect for our natural world. Those volunteers who are at least 21 years old are eligible to apply.

For more in-depth information about these programs and requirements, please visit our volunteer link: kansascityzoo.org/get-involved/volunteer

If you are interested in becoming a Zoo volunteer, the Zoo hosts Volunteer Open Houses periodically throughout the year for the public to learn more about our programs. You will also have a chance to speak with the coordinators for each volunteer program and ask your questions. The dates for the Volunteer Open Houses in early 2017 are:

Sunday, February 12th from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.Tuesday, March 28th from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.

Additional information about the Open Houses and how to sign up for one is also available on our website, along with the online Volunteer application.

Apply Today!Achieving our mission requires great people who actively demonstrate a desire to be an ambassador of our Zoo. While our animal keepers and veterinary staff are vital to keeping our animals happy and healthy and making the Zoo a great place to visit, there are hundreds of other employees who help keep the Zoo running all year long! We have a variety of seasonal and part-time positions

available in our guest services and facilities areas and are always looking for energetic and positive individuals to join our team. The Zoo is really like a mini-city, with each department playing an important role in the operation and success of our world-class Zoo. If you are interested in learning more about employment opportunities, please visit www.kansascityzoo.org to fill out an application and see a complete listing of our available positions.

*The Kansas City Zoo is an equal opportunity employer.

Trip, Trap, Trip, TrapLater this spring, hear the clattery clack of goats’ hooves as they clamber across new bridges and walkways. Near the Discovery Barn, these browsing herbivores that spend most of their time eating and chewing their cud will be waiting for you – because at this new exhibit you can feed the animals! Beware the troll that lives beneath the bridge in this Billy Goats Gruff yard! It’s fun for the whole family.

During construction you can visit and feed the goats at the Australia Sheep Station where they are joined by our herd of domestic sheep. Scattered throughout the yard will be feeding machines. For a 50-cent donation to the Zoo’s conservation programs, you can hand-feed the goats; or if the goats are

overhead on a bridge, you can crank these food morsels up to these four-legged mammals.

Tidbits of Goat History Goats were first raised over 10,000 years ago. Today, more than 200 species provide milk, cheese, meat, hides, and fibers, and help carry heavy loads of supplies for many cultures throughout the world.

Legend has it that coffee was discovered by a goat herd. Really! An Ethiopian goat herd was grazing on tall bushes with shiny green leaves and red berries. After eating the berries, as the story goes, the goats

were dancing. They had so much energy they would not go to sleep. Their shepherd decided to try the red berries himself and found they gave him renewed energy. His findings were reported to a local monastery where the idea of using the berries to make a drink was suggested.

The berries were dried, and then soaked in water. The elixir was then shared by many and became the “Legend of the Dancing Goats”.

While Zookeepers may not be able to train the Zoo’s goats to dance and they certainly would not provide them coffee, they will be sharing with you their goat stories at the new goat exhibit.

Giving to the ZooBy making a donation to the Kansas City Zoo you make it possible to feed and care for all our animals, while at the same time saving some money on your taxes. To learn more about gift strategies to maximize tax savings, call Dustin Prockish, Planned Giving Manager, at 816.595.1216.

10 www.kansascityzoo.org 7Expeditions — 1st Quarter 2017

Calling all Teenagers!!Kansas City Zoo’s teen volunteer program, the VolunTEENs, is closing out another year of new records and exciting firsts!

The VolunTEEN program, which began in 2013, has surpassed expectations each year. 2016 has been no exception, with having a bigger impact on the Zoo than ever before! The 2016 year began with the first VolunTEEN Trip ever to visit the Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita, KS. The trip highlighted the similarities and differences between two AZA-accredited Zoos, as well as including a conservation stop at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve.

After completing a rigorous application process, 30 high-school-aged students were selected to join the 34 TEENs returning from 2015. The new class of 64 VolunTEENs started their year of conservation by helping the Zoo’s horticulture team beautify the Zoo for the summer season. Wielding pitchforks, rakes, and wheelbarrows, the group tackled the enormous task of mulching many of the top-side flower beds. Mulching flower beds helps block the growth of invasive plants and reduces the number of water-stealing weeds. Also, with support from the Zoo’s conservation grant, the VolunTEENs continue to help with the conservation of native pollinators by restoring the beautiful Monarch Waystation in Africa. Weeding, cutting overgrown brush, and planting specially selected plants were all important to make

the natural pollinator garden beautiful for another season. Caring for this garden of native species and educating Zoo

guests on the importance of pollinators has become the VolunTEEN’s major conservation project.

The TrailBlazers (rookie VolunTEENS) spent the summer educating Zoo guests at the “Sheep Station” in Australia. They are now well-practiced presenters who have prepared talks about Australia and the animals that live there. Next time you take a walk around the Outback, stop a TEEN and see what they have to say.

Returning VolunTEENs were able to apply and interview for one of three different jobs. Jr Keepers worked in the animal areas, learning the hard work required of our specially-trained Zookeepers. From preparing diets, creating enrichment and of course, scooping poop, TEEN-keepers got a chance to help the Zoo’s animals by getting their hands dirty.

Others assisted with the Zoo’s week-long camp program, Zoofari Adventures. Jr Counselors assisted camp counselors to educate campers about all things animal, as well as helping lead games, make crafts, while making sure every camper was having a great time.

Finally, the Jr Interpreters took interpretation to the next level. Showcasing their creativity and public speaking skills, TEEN Interpreters were stationed near the Zoo’s entrance and at Safari Landing with “Bio-facts”, props, and live animals, helping guests understand and appreciate animals’ awesome adaptations.

As the TEENs headed back to school, their focus shifted to conservation. Hoots & Howls is one of the Zoo’s largest events of the year, taking place every weekend through October. The VolunTEENs manned a craft table in the main lobby and assisted young Zoo guests to decorate their own mini-pumpkins. Thanks to your pumpkin-decorating donations, the VolunTEENs have generated enough funding to begin their own conservation campaign. They have named their campaign “KC Wild Side” and will strive to make the back yards and parks in the Kansas City Metro a little more wild. Stay tuned for more about the KC Wild Side conservation campaign!

If you are in 8th-11th grade, enjoy learning about animals, and think the VolunTEEN program sounds like a good fit for you, find more information at www.kansascityzoo.org/VolunTEEN. Applications for new VolunTEENs will be available by January 1st, 2017. If you or your parents have any questions, please email teenvolunteer@fotzkc.org.

Next time you come out to the Kansas City Zoo, look for the VolunTEENs’ blue shirts and see what they can share with you!

The Kansas City Zoo VolunTEEN program empowers teens to become community leaders in conservation, while instilling workplace values.

Nick Philipp, TEEN & Guest Experiences Supervisor

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On Saturday, February 11 join us for a night of comedy to remember! Tales of animal mating and reproduction make this annual pre-Valentine’s Day event a real hoot. Learn while laughing and blushing a little as actors from the Living Room Theatre reenact some of nature’s more sensational stories. This event is for mature audiences 21+ and includes two drink tickets, heavy appetizers and great live music. Tickets are available online at KansasCityZoo.org and are $35 for FOTZ Members and $45 for non-members. It’s an evening of February fun you’ll tell all your friends about the next day.

CROCODILE

ELEPHANTS

GENTOO

GIBBON

HUMBOLDT

JELLIES

KANGAROO

KING

LEMURS

LIONS

MACAW

MEERKAT

OTTERS

POLAR BEAR

SEALION

STINGRAY

SWAMP MONKEY

TIGERS

TROPICS

TRUMPETER

Come see us this Winter!

Tropical DaysBeat the winter blues with sounds and sights of the tropics here at the Kansas City Zoo January 21 and 22 10 a.m.– 2 p.m. We’ll be hosting Zoo guests for days’-long tropical enrichment for the animals!

Mr. MossGender: MaleBirthdate: July 26, 2004 (age 12)Weight: 21 pounds Favorite Enrichment Item: Mr. Moss loves puzzle toys. He likes to manipulate them to figure out how to get the food out.Temperament/Personality: He likes to get up near the glass of the exhibit and interact with the public.How to identify: Males are twice as large as females.

OtaGender: FemaleBirthdate: October 1, 2004 (age 12)Weight: 8 ½ pounds Favorite Enrichment Item: She loves puzzle toys and food enrichmentTemperament/Personality: Ota is very smart, tries to take items apart.

LuellaGender: FemaleBirthdate: September 8, 2011 (age 5)Weight: 6 poundsFavorite Enrichment Item: Luella loves papier-mâché items, cardboard boxes and mealworms!Temperament/Personality: She enjoys training.