Zoo Tracks - Happy Holidays from Blank Park Zoo

Newsletter for friends of Blank Park Zoo | Spring 2013
Zoo Tracks
Jaama Kwa – Connection to Africa
Join us for Members Night May 3!
Picture yourself in the heart of an African safari:
standing in awe of the endangered eastern black
rhino. Marveling at the heaviest flying bird in the
world, the kori bustard. The beauty and grace of the
common eland enamoring you. The astoundingly
powerful watusi with its impressive horns grazing
in the distance. The ostrich coming so closely you could almost reach out
and touch its soft feathers. The giraffe
amazing you with their majestic heights.
You are immersed in the African culture
through animal and exhibit interaction.
Blank Park Zoo’s newly expanded African
exhibit, Jaama Kwa, will share how the people
of Africa interact with animals and the impacts
these interactions have on species and habitat
survival. This exciting new exhibit will also
include two new spur-thighed tortoise, as well
as lesser kudu and cranes.
Experience this for yourself in May for our grand
opening weekend. This first phase of our expansion
will take you on a journey – don’t forget your
camera! Members receive a special membersonly
preview on Friday, May 3. Our grand
opening to the public will be Saturday, May 4.
»
More on Africa and Members Night on page 10

Zoo Tracks | page two
Discounts for Zoo memberships
» Early renewal For Zoo members, renew before your expiration month
and receive $10 off your renewal! Call the Zoo’s membership hotline at
515-974-2600 to renew, or check your email or mailbox for a special early
renewal code. Renewing early will extend your current expiration date
one year.
» Active military Receive $5 off your Zoo membership. Purchase at the Zoo
membership desk only.
» Corporate partners Is your company one of the Zoo’s corporate
partners Receive $10 off a Zoo membership. Call 515-974-2600 to find out
if you’re eligible and see page 8 for more information on our corporate
partners program.
All membership discounts are good for Zoo membership only.
Offers cannot be combined.
May is Member
Appreciation Month!
Special appreciation of our Loyalty Club
10+ year members
Members Night is Friday, May 3, 5 to 8 pm.
Discounts all month long
» Safari Grill specials » Extra free guest
» Free face painting with » And so much more!
membership purchase
Stay tuned to www.blankparkzoo.com for more details.

The Members’
Wild Card is
back, and it’s
bigger and
better this year!
Members Wild Card
Turn this completed card in to admissions by the end of
the month - you’ll receive free gifts and be entered to win
Zoo-riffic prizes and a free Zoo membership renewal!
Name & Patron ID:
Comments:
Take the Wild Card with you as you experience the Zoo – whether you’re riding
the train, feeding the giraffe or making a purchase at WildThings Gift Shop.
Fill out one card and get another!
For each Wild Card you complete May through September, you’ll get free gifts
for your family. Kids can get a toy from our treasure chest and adults will
receive a free pass for a train ride. You will also be entered to win a FREE Zoo
membership renewal and special sponsor prizes!
Zoo Pride: Loyalty
Club membership
How long have you been a Blank Park Zoo member Our new Zoo Loyalty
Club membership program honors longtime members through events and
exhibit previews, tours, special recognition, invites to VIP events and more.
For more information, contact membership@blankparkzoo.org or call
515-974-2589.
Discount for Summer Safari!
Members receive steep discounts for our Summer Safari camps. See page 11
for more details.

Zoo Tracks | page four
Zoos and
Aquariums:
Committing to Conservation
Hosted by Blank Park Zoo
Holiday Inn Airport Conference Center
Des Moines, Iowa
July 8-12, 2013
Blank Park Zoo is proud to host the international 2013 Zoos and Aquariums
Committing to Conservation (ZACC) conference July 8-12, 2013.This biennial
conference provides opportunities for zoo and aquarium personnel and field
researchers to meet and develop partnerships that benefit wildlife and wild
places around the globe. Past hosts include zoos like the Columbus Zoo and
Houston Zoo. As host, Blank Park Zoo is showing the important contributions
our zoo has made to conservation with our dedicated staff and volunteers.
All sessions are open to the public –visit
www.zaccconference.com for more information.
Session Themes:
» Telling Your Story by Using an
Array of Communication Tools
» Connecting Zoos & the Field
» Building Relationships from the
Ground Up
» Where is the Money
» Introducing New Projects
» The Economics of Conservation
» Developing Successful Education
Programs at a Field Site and at
Your Zoo
» Biodiversity Conservation within
Agro-industrial Landscapes
ZACC Zoo Day – Wednesday, July 10
At the ZACC Zoo Day, presentations and tours will highlight
Blank Park Zoo’s animals and sustainable practices. That
evening, delegates will get a taste of Zoo Brew. Dinner will be
held in the ZooPlex and delegates can enjoy the different wines,
brews and entertainment!

ZACC Keynote Speakers
Jeff Flocken DC Office Director for the International Fund
for Animal Welfare and co-founder of Emerging Wildlife
Conservation Leaders (EWCL) initiative, providing training for
up-and-coming wildlife leaders.
Pati Medici Brazilian conservation biologist whose main
professional interests are tapir conservation, tropical forest
conservation, meta-population management, landscape ecology
and community-based conservation.
Julian Fennessy Independent environmental consultant
and the conservation scientist and co-founder of the Giraffe
Conservation Foundation.
Joel Sartore Photographer, National Geographic Fellow,
conservationist and a regular contributor to National
Geographic Magazine, specializing in documenting endangered
species and landscapes.
ZACC Pricing Options
All are welcome to attend! To register,
please visit www.blankparkzoo.com
$25 of your registration supports the ZACC Conservation Fund.
» $225 for full conference (if registered before June 15, 2013,
$265 after June 15, 2013). Includes Monday evening
icebreaker, Wednesday evening Zoo Brew, most lunches,
one dinner and refreshments.
» $75 for single day registration. Includes lunch,
refreshments and dinner if applicable.
Questions about the
ZACC conference
Please email zacc@
blankparkzoo.com.
» $25 for Wednesday evening Zoo Brew. Includes Zoo Brew
admission and dinner.

Zoo Tracks | page six
2013
Special Events Calendar
Out of Africa Conservation Series
Dr. Amy Dickman | March 28
Bill Konstant | April 25
With the Zoo’s new exhibit Jaama Kwa “Connection to”
Africa opening this spring, our conservation series will
feature a speaker on a majestic African animal. Dr. Dickman
of Oxford University will focus on lions, and Bill Konstant of
the International Rhino Foundation will share about rhino
conservation. The series is discounted for Zoo members at
$15/session (regularly $20).
Eggstravaganza
Saturday, March 30
Participate in this egg-cellent
Easter fun with the animals of
the Zoo, which includes egg
hunts, scavenger hunts, crafts
and games, and a visit from the
Easter Bunny himself! Check
the Zoo’s Facebook and Twitter pages beginning March 25 for
clues about the Golden Egg Hunt!
Members’ Night | Friday, May 3
Enjoy a special, members-only preview of our newly
renovated Africa exhibit. Meet the Zoo’s new black rhinos,
listen to live music, enjoy crafts and inflatable fun. Join us
for this FREE members evening from 5 to 8 pm.
I Do at the Zoo Bridal Show | Sunday, May 5
Wedding planning can be a bit of a zoo in itself! Let us help
with the process – Blank Park Zoo invites all soon-to-be brides
to meet dozens of vendors, including DJs, local cake shops,
dress boutiques and photographers as you get ready for your
big day. Ever pictured saying “I do” at the Zoo We’ll help you
do just that Sunday, May 5!
Adventure Days | May 1
August 10
This summer series revolves around
inspire an appreciation of the natur
conservation and recreation. Adven
creativity through crafts and games
hunts and activities, and educate th
conservation. There’s something for
Gators on the Green |
Join us for the 2nd Annual Gators
event to help Blank Park Zoo furth
our Zoo Ambassadors, this tourna
Club is on par with the best events
Zoo Brew
Wednesdays in June,
July & August
For those over 21, the Zoo
comes to life after hours every
Wednesday in the summer.
This popular event features
different themes, bands and
drinks while guests enjoy the
animals of the Zoo. The middle of
to look forward to!
Rhino Rampage | Satur
Get ready for a revamped Blank Pa
Challenge, plus an all new Kids Da
new Jaama Kwa ‘Connection to Afr
honor our black rhinos!
Campout at the Zoo | F
Take a snooze at the Zoo with you
overnight experience unlike any ot
Zoo after-hours and hear the howl
of the morning on this campout ad
ZACC Conference | Ju
The Zoo is excited to host the inte
Aquariums: Committing to Conser
Moines. See pages 4-5 for more det

11, June 8, July 13,
d the Zoo’s mission to
ral world through education,
nture Days spark children’s
s, engage them in scavenger
them on the importance of
or the entire family!
QUESTION
Monday, May 20
on the Green fundraising
her our mission. Driven by
ament at Wakonda Country
s in town!
Grandparent’s Day | Friday, July 12
There is something special about the relationship between
grandparents and their grandchildren - help Blank Park Zoo
celebrate that bond by joining us for Grandparent's Day at the
Zoo. This fundraiser is designed to provide an extra-special
experience for grandmas, grandpas and grandchildren.
Zoobilation | Friday, September 20
Zoobilation is back for its second year as Blank Park Zoo’s
annual fall gala. This one-of-a-kind gala features the animals of
the Zoo all while you enjoy hors d’oeuvres , cocktails and fun
entertainment. Your ticket or donation for this event directly
supports the Zoo’s animals, education and conservation efforts.
Zooktoberfest | Wednesday, October 2
Zoo Brew is back with Oktoberfest twist! For those over 21,
be a part of the first-ever Zooktoberfest this fall at Blank Park
Zoo – a mash-up of the popular Zoo Brew and the ever-famous
Oktoberfest. This event features the best seasonal beers,
Oktoberfest-style food, live entertainment, and of course, all the
animals of the Zoo. Don’t miss out on this fall event!
f the week is now something
rday, June 15
ark Zoo 5K Race & Obstacle
ash! In celebration of the
frica’ exhibit, this event will
Friday, June 21
ur friends and family for an
ther! See the animals of the
ls of the night and the coos
dventure.
uly 8-12
ernational Zoos and
ervation Conference in Des
etails.
Night Eyes | October 17-20 and October 24-27
Night Eyes returns for its 23rd year of the sweetest Halloween
fun in Central Iowa. Blank Park Zoo transforms into a world of
lights, castles and storybook characters while you are invited
to dress in costume and go on a treat safari through the Zoo.
This merry, not scary, trick-or-treating event is fun for the
whole family to enjoy!
Santa at the Zoo
Saturday, December 7
and 14
He’s making his list and
checking it twice – Santa is
visiting Blank Park Zoo with
his reindeer again this year!
Take your picture with Santa,
visit his reindeer, make holiday
crafts and enjoy cookies
and cocoa. Explore the Zoo’s
Discovery Center and watch
some of the big cats open a few
early Christmas presents!

Zoo Tracks | page eight
Is your company
interested in partnering
with Blank Park Zoo
When you partner with Blank Park Zoo, you are investing in one of the most
popular family-friendly destinations in Iowa, as we serve the needs of both
the community and the animals that depend on us for their survival. You
make possible:
» First-hand encounters with the wonders of the animal kingdom
for 430,000 people
» Education programs that reach 115,000 children annually
» The Zoo's participation in more than 20 different Species Survival Plans
And, as a partner you receive special benefits and recognition. For more
information, please call 515.974.2533 or email development@blankparkzoo.org.
Your connection to Africa
A unique opportunity to leave
your mark at Blank Park Zoo
Blank Park Zoo is looking forward to the
Grand Opening of the largest expansion we've
had in over 15 years - Jaama Kwa 'Connection
to' Africa . You will have the opportunity to be
part of this historic moment by placing your
name on an African-inspired art piece, which
will be displayed on the wall of the rhino
building. More details about this naming
opportunity will be available in April at www.blankparkzoo.com. For more
information, contact Audrey at 515-974-2547 or ajdaniels@blankparkzoo.org.

Thank you
to the Zoo’s top
volunteers for 2012!
The following volunteers
served 75+ hours over the
course of the year.
Susan Allen
Rachel Amundson
Christopher Ballew
Colleen Chisman
Sharon Coates
Jean Ann DeBiaggo
Nancy Engle
Pat Henson
Kathy Krogmeier
Roxanne Kucharski
Jerilou Leeman
Pam Levine
Deb Miller
John Mondo
Marie Myers
Becky Parrish
Carlin Peer
Rebecca Petterson
Adam Ridge
Fred Scott
Laurie Strackeljahn
Lori Tiangco
Patty Weeks
Benjy Weiss
Our special “Good Egg” award
goes to Marie Myers for her
198.25 hours of service!
21
Mark your calendars for Volunteer
Appreciation Week April 21-27!
Leave a Lasting Impression
The Blank Park Zoo Foundation’s Aldabra
Society is a group of visionary, forwardthinking
supporters who have made estateplan
provisions to give a lasting gift to the Blank
Park Zoo Foundation. As a member of the Aldabra
Society, you too, can leave a lasting impression
that will outlive generations to come. For more
information, contact Azure at 515-974-2593 or email
aschristensen@blankparkzoo.org.

Zoo Tracks | page ten
Africa: Phase 2
Getting excited for our new Africa exhibit
So are we – and this is just the beginning.
Phase two of our expansion will include
indoor giraffe viewing and feeding experience,
a second giraffe yard for expanded breeding
and population management and so much
more. We can’t do this without your
support – donations can be made at
www.blankparkzoo.com under Give to the Zoo – Capital Campaign.
Thank you to our generous donors who made phase one possible!
Join us for Members Night
Friday, May 3 from 5 to 8 pm.
» Meet the new black rhinos, Ayana and Kiano
» Enjoy African-themed games & crafts and experience inflatable fun
» Listen to live music
» And so much more!
Our grand opening to the public will be Saturday, May 4.
New to the Zoo
1 2
1 Male lion, Deuce – on exhibit
2 Male eland
3 Sea lion, Zoey
4 Female cassowary, Sydney

Kid Zone
Jokes by Zoo member Logan Darrah,
age 9, that he made up himself:
1
What do you call it when
there are no more skunks
Submit your Zoo
jokes to
membership@
blankparkzoo.org!
2
What do you call turtles
that come out at night
Registration for Summer
Safari is now open!
Children will enjoy crafts, animal visits, games, Zoo
exploration and adventures during their week at
Summer Safari. Members receive a generous discount
for our camps! For camp dates and to register, visit
www.blankparkzoo.com.
3 4
Answers: 1. They would be Ex-stinked (Extinct) 2. Noc-turtles (Nocturnals)

Save the Date –
Members’ Night!
Friday, May 3 from 5 to 8 pm
Get a first look at the new rhinos at our members-only early
preview of the renovated Africa exhibit! FREE with your
membership. Details, page 10
What’s inside:
» NEW member specials and
discounts (pages 2-3)
» Your 2013 Special Events
Calendar (pages 6-7)
» And more!
Connect With Us!
www.twitter.com/blankparkzoo
www.facebook.com/blankparkzoo
www.youtube.com/blankparkzoo
Membership hotline: 515-974-2600
Email: membership@blankparkzoo.org
The mission of the Blank Park Zoo is to inspire
an appreciation of the natural world through
conservation, education and recreation.
Blank Park Zoo Foundation
7401 SW 9th Street | Des Moines, IA 50315
NON PROFIT ORG
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
DES MOINES, IA
PERMIT NO.5754