Archive for the ‘African Forest’ Category

Dec
22

12 Days of Grub: Day 10 – Ten Chimps a Chasing

Posted by in African Forest,Chimpanzees,Feeding Our Animals,Gift of Grub

On the Tenth Day of Grub, your zoo gift will help to feed…Ten Chimps a Chasing, Nine Fruit Bats Flying, Eight Giraffes a Galloping, Seven Snakes a Slithering, Six Mole-rats Mining, Five Golden Frogs, Four Calling Birds, Three Wild Dogs, Two Grizzly Bears, and Darwin the Cassowary! CLICK HERE to read them all!

For most wild animals, the acquisition and consumption of food is not just a casual activity, but in fact a full-time job.  A wild chimpanzee in Africa must always be on the search for ripe fruit, edible greens, tasty termites or ants, hard-shelled nuts  and yes, even small animals to hunt and eat.

Although we can’t re-create a wild chimpanzee diet, here at the Houston Zoo, we provide our chimps with a healthy variety of food including many types of lettuce, fruits, vegetables, nuts, different types of local plants and a specialized “biscuit” made for primates in zoos.  We also give them many types of treats which make up only a small portion of their diet, but are their favorites, including popcorn, peanut butter, honey and fruit juice.

Lucy enjoys some sweet potato and sunshine

Our chimps did not grow up hunting or eating termites, ants or meat, so this is not included in their Houston Zoo diet, but they are given the daily opportunity to show off their amazing ability to use tools by “fishing” for sweet or savory treats in our termite mound replica.

The chimps enjoy using sticks to “fish” for delicious treats

In order to keep their day interesting and to keep them active, the chimps’ meals are provided at different times throughout the day.  One of their favorite types of food is “browse”, or edible plants collected for them throughout the zoo by our own amazing Horticulture team.  Everyday the chimps get some combination of mulberry, banana leaves, willow, fig leaves or other edible plants.

Mac enjoys fig leaves

Chimps aren’t great at sharing their food with one another with a few notable exceptions (moms and their babies, males “wooing” receptive females, etc.)   They have a fairly stable social hierarchy and the higher-ranking chimps have first access to the yummy stuff.  For that reason, it is important that we make sure the food is scattered throughout the chimps’ entire habitat so that each member has the opportunity to collect food, and there is always enough for everyone.

Feeding the zoo’s animals is one of the best parts of being a zookeeper.  We enjoy giving them their food almost as much as they enjoy eating it!

Give the Gift of Grub this holiday season to help provide tasty meals for our chimpanzees and all of the animals at the Houston Zoo!  Our chimps send their ape-preciation for your support.

Thank you also to TXU Energy for generously matching the first $25,000 in donations this year!

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Dec
06

Foto Friday Winner of the Week

Posted by in African Forest,Chimpanzees,Contest,Enrichment,Featured

The FOTO FRIDAY caption challenge results are in!

Last Friday we posted our weekly Foto Friday pic and invited you to leave your best caption in the comment section. Then readers “liked” each caption comment to vote for their favorites. Their votes, combined with those of our own panel, determined the caption to appear under the picture right here on the Official Houston Zoo Blog this week.

YOUR VOTES HELP DETERMINE THE WINNERS!

Here is the picture that was posted along with the top voted caption by Jane Judd Peikert, whose caption won by a landslide!

We're never going to finish if you keep eating all the fruit!

FIRST RUNNERS UP – a tie between:

Hillary Skeryanc-Mann: He needs an ear right here.
Charlie Paul: We can call him Parson Brown!

SECOND RUNNER UP:

Alma Garza Mescher: By the time his cousin, Frosty, gets the ransom together, he’s gonna be slush and we’re going to have to make do with selling him to Sonic.

THIRD RUNNERS UP – a tie between:

Dana Rice: We have some ice to pick with you!
Dana Rice: Are you losing weight?
Cathy Rackley Todd: Monkey see & monkey do!
Christine Ledder: Wow the kitchen crew is really evolving…snow sculpture!
Excargo Services: How will we communicate with the primate?
Lacy Pekarik: The face of that snowman looks like a seal.
Pat Harper Patterson: Hey! This rude guy is STARING at you, but you shouldn’t poke him in the eye!!! I’ll bet his frosty attitude will melt away soon.
Elizabeth Riley Firchau: “Back off! I already called dibs on the scarf!!”
Debbie Bazan: Get Italy on the phone. I’ve created a new masterpiece.
Rebecca Dolen Bowers: Well I’ll be a monkey’s uncle….. a snowman in Houston.

Thanks for joining in the fun!

And please come on back for the next FOTO Friday!

The chimpanzees can be seen daily in the new African Forest section of the Houston Zoo. The snowman however is an occasional treat, part of the many types of enrichment we offer our animals.

Nov
23

Meet the Staff: Alissa Fuhrman

Posted by in African Forest,Behind the Scenes,Chimpanzees,Featured,Meet the Staff,Wortham World of Primates

Hometown: Livermore, CA

Section: Primates-I mostly work in Chimps right now.

Quote: “If you want to view paradise, simply look around and view it.” Willy Wonka

Special interests/hobbies: I’m a member of a Drum and Bugle Corps.  I play the French horn and the Mellophone.  I also have 5 fresh water fish tanks at home.

Favorite animal: Amelia, a De Brazza’s Guenon; she is really cute.  Penda, a Swamp Monkey; she has a great personality.  Kerchak, a Red-capped Mangabey; he can be aggressive and unpredictable but I’ve taught him some fun behaviors that kind of off-set his personality.

Animals you train: Mangabeys, Red-tailed guenons, Swamp Monkeys, De Brazza’s Guenon, Chimpanzees

How long have you been in the animal care field?  I was a volunteer/intern beginning in 1997 at the Charles Paddock Zoo and the Oakland Zoo.  I have been a keeper here at the Houston Zoo since 2001.

What made you want to be a zookeeper? Animals are cool and can be easier to relate to than people sometimes.  In Junior High I wanted to work at Seaworld and work with marine mammals.

What is your previous education/training? I have a Bachelors of Science in Animal Science with a concentration in Zoo and Exotics from California Polytechnic State University.

What sort of advice would you give to anyone wanting to enter the zoo field? Volunteer and be well rounded. You need to know how to work with tools and be creative.  Work on making fun toys for your dog, similar to how we enrich animals here at the zoo.  You should also read “Don’t Shoot the Dog” by Karen Pryor to learn more about animal training.

What is your favorite animal story?
Naku, our Swamp Monkey, loves his pool. He likes to take things from the yard and soak them in the pool.  We decided to put grass sod in the yard for greenery and give them something else to walk on.  The day we put the sod in, Naku decided to take each sheet and drag it to the pool.  80 squares of grass was in the water.  He had fun that day.

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Nov
10

Tasty Treat

Posted by in African Forest,Chimpanzees

One of our chimps eating a frozen sweet potato.

Oct
07

Best of Houston Press Award to The African Forest

Posted by in African Forest,Zoo News

A Houston Zoo roar of thanks and a tip of our safari hat to the Houston Press which has named The African Forest at the Houston Zoo  ‘Best New Ecosystem’  in its 2011 Best of Houston edition.

The Press is imPRESSed with The African Forest’s “charismatic families of chimpanzees, giraffes and white rhinos’” and the fact that the newest addition to the Houston Zoo is a “high-tech forest”  -  a reference to the 24-hour Webcams allowing visitors to the Zoo’s website to “watch the rhinos’ antics from the air-conditioned comfort of your home or office.”

 

The other residents of The African Forest – chimpanzees and giraffes – may also be viewed via Webcam.  Check them out when you visit The African Forest website.

And thanks again Houston Press for honoring The African Forest at the Houston Zoo as one of the Best of Houston.   See all the winners at http://www.houstonpress.com/bestof/
Written by Brian Hill

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Sep
09

There’s a New Resident at the Houston Zoo and It’s Not an Animal!

Posted by in African Forest,Horticulture,Pollinators

There’s a new bud in town.

We are happy to announce that our very own spunky and stinky corpse flower, Pewtunia, is about to bloom!

Our fans know and love all the interesting, diverse and engaging animals that call the Houston Zoo home. However, an aspect of the Zoo that is sometimes overlooked is the incredibly maintained and varied plant life that not only keep the Zoo grounds looking beautiful, but also add a natural enhancement to animal habitats.

One of these resident plants is definitely a standout – our gal Pewtunia is what is known in the horticulture world as an Amorphophallus titanum. We realize that’s kind of a mouthful (we had to re-spell it several times to get it right), so you may know her better as a Corpse Flower, Carrion Plant, Titan Arum or Voodoo Lily.

Originally scientifically described in 1878, discovered by Odoardo Beccari, and only found in Western Sumatra, Corpse Flowers are definitely a rare sight and, ahem, smell. The name Corpse Flower comes from the distinct stench that has been described as the smell of a corpse.

Obviously our dear Pewtunia does not have any dead bodies near her – the smell is really given off, along with extra heat, to attract Carrion Beetles and Blow Flies. These friends to the Corpse Flower are pollinators, which means they are integral to continuing the Corpse Flower population. This attractive (well to bugs anyway) odor will be at it’s most powerful 12-24 hours of full bloom.

It’s rude to ask a lady’s weight, but we’ll tell you that Pewtunia is almost 20 pounds and currently stands 2’6″. She may not sound like a heavyweight yet, but prior to blooming, Corpse Flowers grow rapidly, and she will reach heights of 4′-6′ – maybe even 8′!

Pewtunia as of Thursday, September 8

So if you’d like to experience Pewtunia in all her glory, then start planning your trip to the Zoo now – we think she’ll be in full bloom by or before next weekend! Or maybe you’d prefer to enjoy the view without the smell?

Pewtunia will be viewable in the Zoo on The African Forest walk between the 4-D Experience and the Indoor Chimp Viewing area starting Monday, September 12. And there will be special Horticulture Keeper Talks at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. when one of our knowledgeable horticulture staff members will be there to answer any and all Corpse Flower curiosities you may have!

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Aug
20

MD Anderson Children’s Cancer Hospital Patients Learn About Life on the Wild Side

Posted by in African Forest,Enrichment,Events,Memories

What do wild animals and pediatric cancer patients have in common? Not much – unless the patients are from MD Anderson Children’s Cancer Hospital.

For several years, pediatric patients – with help from MD Anderson Children’s Art Project – have created special works of art for a variety of animals living at the Houston Zoo.

Each year, education specialists from the Houston Zoo have come to the Children’s Cancer Hospital in-hospital school to teach patients about exotic wildlife. They’ve learned what life is like at the zoo and have used that knowledge to create treats and toys to give to the animals.
 
Patients have also taken field trips for an up close, behind-the-scenes tour of the zoo. Over the years, they’ve interacted with giraffes, elephants, many of the reptiles, and smaller animals. They’ve also created paper maché animals that zoo specialists fill with food and set out as prey for the tigers and other animals to devour.

Earlier this year, patients made piñatas for the chimpanzees. After getting acquainted, the zookeeper took three of the decorated piñatas and filled them with figs – the ape equivalent of warm apple pie, explained the zookeeper. Then, the children watched as each piñata was dropped into the exhibit, much to their ¬– and the chimpanzees’ – delight.

As the chimpanzees  poked their heads through and pushed around the piñatas, inches away on the opposite side of a glass wall, the kids watched with pure excitement. It was clearly time away from the difficult realities of a cancer diagnosis.

The chimps weren’t the only inhabitants getting in on the fun.  The patients also presented a piñata to some larger zoo residents – the rhinos. The piñata was placed in the middle of the exhibit. They, too, were curious. One rhino even sent his horn right through the middle of the piñata. 

After the rhinos were satisfied with the treats, the day ended with an opportunity to hand-feed three large giraffes. For many of the children who come to MD Anderson Children’s Cancer Hospital from all over the world, this has been their first experience to see large wildlife up close. When all is said and done, each patient has shared a little love, and has learned a little bit about life on the wild side.

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Aug
03

Young Professionals Flock to the Houston Zoo for Wild Events

Posted by in African Forest,Events,Flock

Young professionals are Flocking to the Houston Zoo for some entertaining events tucked between the Zoo’s “wild” exhibits. Flock members have the chance to mix and mingle, have close encounters with the animals and learn more about how they can help with wildlife conservation and education locally and internationally.

One of the live animal encounters at our Flock Events

Flock was an idea that took off in 2009. “We wanted to create a donor club for younger individuals who loved the Zoo and who were committed to the stewardship and growth of the Houston Zoo. Flock strives to inspire new generations of Houston Zoo supporters by creating unique events that are not only fun, but educational as well.” said Nick Espinosa, Senior Director of Development.

Events from past years include, Pick Your Poison, inside the Reptile House and an 80’s themed party, Flock of Seagulls at the Zoo’s Cypress Circle. This year Flock members have enjoyed two events, the Beastly Brunch and most recently One Wild Night in Africa.

At One Wild Night in Africa, Flock members had the opportunity to tour the new McGovern Giraffe Barn. Guests fed our giraffe herd lettuce, and got close enough to see their long eyelashes. Some guests found out just how long a giraffe’s tongue really is (18 inches) as the giraffes reached for their treat. The Zoo’s conservation team was on hand to talk about the conservation efforts in Africa and the importance of actions needed to protect endangered species. Event goers sipped on beer, generously donated by St. Arnolds while munching on burritos handed out by Freebirds at the African Forest Plaza.

These unique animal meet and greets are part of what make Flock such an amazing donor club. Flock encourages its members to get involved.  “It is important to have young professionals from the Houston area that have a passion for wildlife, conservation and the environment involved with the Zoo. Flock events provide up close and very special experiences with our Zoo Ambassadors. We hope it will inspire our members to get involved with wildlife conservation and enviroment causes, locally and internationally.” said Sarah Atwood, Director of Development. 

With an annual donation of $150, Flock members not only receive free admission to three cocktail events, but will also receive free admission to the Houston Zoo, 364 days a year, and opportunities for exclusive Zoo travel, volunteering and discounted tickets for friends and family, and many other benefits!

Don’t miss our next event, Fast and Ferocious, on Thursday, August 18, 2011  from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Momentum Audi.

We would like to thank Momentum Audi for their continued support of Flock and the Houston Zoo. Special thanks go out to event sponsors; St. Arnolds, Yelp, Beaver’s, Houston magazine, Cordúa Restaurants, and El Xuco Xicana. If you want to learn more about Flock or R.S.V.P for the upcoming event, click here to visit our webpage.

Written by Stephanie Tilley

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Jun
06

Introducing: Mystery Image Mondays at the Houston Zoo

Posted by in African Forest,Scavenger Hunt

Starting today, put your safari hats on and break out that magnifying glass as we prepare for our weekly photographic scavenger hunt, “Mystery Image Mondays at the Houston Zoo!” 

How does it work, you ask?

Each week you’ll find a portion of a photo — it may be of an animal, a habitat, or some other point of interest found on Zoo grounds — posted here. Using the three clues given, can you guess what it is? How about where it was taken? Psst- here’s another hint: all the photos are Chill Out-themed!

If you’re still stumped, no need to panic — we’ll be posting the answers on a special Answer Page right here on the blog!   And worry not – we won’t tell anyone  if you peek! Let’s get on with it then…

This Week’s Image, a.k.a #1:

Can you guess what this week’s Mystery Image Monday is? How about where it is located? Here on some hints to get you started:

1. I have a trunk, but no large floppy ears or tusks. Although, I do have some very special markings.

2. Even though I have dozens of cousins around the Zoo, my family and I live in the newest part of the Zoo.

3. My markings are pretty unique- there are only 32 of them where I live!

Did you figure it out? Let us know in the comments below and be sure to visit our Answer Page to double check your answer!

Hope you enjoyed our first Mystery Image Monday! Be sure to check back with us next Monday, and every Monday throughout our TXU Energy Presents Chill Out at the Houston Zoo summer!

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May
02

The African Forest Display at the Houston Visitor’s Center

Posted by in African Forest

Despite the space shuttle snub, we think Houston is a pretty great place to visit, and we aren’t the only ones who feel that way! Of course, the new African Forest at the Houston Zoo is one of the best parts of the city.

When Houston visitors need advice on where to go, they should stop by the Visitor’s Center downtown at the offices of the Greater Houston Convention and Visitor’s Center. In honor of the opening of The African Forest, we have created an eye-catching 3D display in the visitor’s center.

So when you have out of town guests, or if you want to explore the possibilities of your own “stay-cation”, swing by the visitor’s center to find out everything that Houston has to offer. And of course, come check out the new, award-winning African Forest here at the Houston Zoo.

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