Brilliance - Indianapolis Zoo

S p r i n g + S u m m e r 2 0 1 2
A
Brilliance
of BIRDS
Indianapolis Zoo Magazine

Indianapolis Zoo
Mission
The Indianapolis Zoo empowers
people and communities, both
locally and globally, to advance
animal conservation.
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors
Flights of Fancy:
A Brilliance of Birds and
Zoobilation Restaurants
Day presented by
Bats presented by
Power Recycling
Weekend presented by
Zoo Babies
presented by
Arena presented by
Christmas at the Zoo
presented by
Mycarbonpledge.com
in partnership with
Golfari presenting
sponsor
African Lion Awareness
Weekend presented by
ZooBoo presented by
Zoo Map presented by
Nursing Moms Nest
presented by
Zoobilation
presented by
Splash Park
presented by
Distance Learning
Program presented by
Race-a Cheetah
in partnership with
Conservation Station
presented by
Drop Dead Gorgeous
Snakes presented by
Art and Nature programming
supported by the Arts Council
of Indianapolis and the
City of Indianapolis.
The UPS Foundation
Get More from Your Membership
The great thing about a membership is that it’s the foundation of
an ongoing relationship between your family and ours. In that
spirit, we want to make sure you’re getting the greatest value from
your commitment. Here are three easy ways to get more from your
membership:
Stay Informed
The Indianapolis Zoo Magazine is just one of the many ways we
keep you up-to-date on what’s happening at the Zoo. Find us on
Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, or sign up for the free monthly
Member eNews. It’s easy—just email “Sign me up” to
membership@indyzoo.com.
s s s
Look for Unique Opportunities
There is so much more to being a member than free admission
and parking. As members you also get special access to interactive
opportunities with animals, members-only events, and exhibit
previews to name a few. Enjoy discounts in the gift shop, and on
guest admission, classes, summer camps, and more.
Make Sure You’re at the Right Level
Give some thought to what interests you about the Indianapolis
Zoo. Is it just the adventures, the great exhibits, family time, and
sharing with friends? Or are you looking to make positive change
in the world? Consider investing in the future of the Indianapolis
Zoo by supporting our local and global conservation efforts. You
can upgrade to a Conservation level donor membership and join
a vibrant community of supporters starting at only $300 a year,
which adds to your current membership many more fantastic
benefits. For more information, please contact Taylor Schuh by
phone at (317) 630-2025, by email at tschuh@indyzoo.com, or visit
indianapoliszoo.com and click on “Donate Now.”
We are honored to have you as a member and a friend, and
appreciate your support. Any time you have questions or want to
chat, please just call the Membership office at (317) 630-2046—we’re
happy to help!
DID YOU KNOW? The Indianapolis Zoo is the largest zoo
in the country that receives no direct tax support.
Indianapolis Zoo on NPR
The Indianapolis Zoo’s own Vice President of Life
Sciences, Dr. Rob Shumaker, was recently featured on
National Public Radio (NPR). Our curator of Marine
Mammals, Jodie Baker, and Senior Elephant Trainer
Tim Littig were also interviewed for the piece.
The focus of the eight-minute segment was
Dr. Shumaker’s co-authorship of a book on animal
tool use. To hear the full interview—or to learn
more about Dr. Shumaker’s book—go to the
Press Room within ‘About The Zoo’ from the
indianapoliszoo.com home page.

Finding Balance
People sometimes ask whether it’s right that zoos and other conservation
organizations raise – and spend – millions of dollars to sustain animals and their
habitats when there are so many humans in need both here and abroad. It’s a fair
question, so I’d like to share with you why I feel not only comfortable but compelled
to help the Indianapolis Zoo’s supporters find fulfilling projects to support.
president’s
message
When we raise our children, we try to teach them the importance of balance in their
lives. It’s fun to eat candy and it can be a great reward or diversion, but make a steady
diet of it and you’re likely to lose your health and your teeth. Conversely, if we don’t
sprinkle our lives with diversions and rewards, existence can be pretty joyless. It’s all about
finding the right balance for the time and circumstance.
Right now, circumstances require us to take action on behalf of the natural world. Even if we live in a city,
that city doesn’t create the oxygen we breathe or the other natural resources that sustain us. Those come
from places often far removed from our daily focus, and they are made up of a rich and complex web of
interconnected organisms, many of which are in significant peril.
Ecosystem services are the things that our planet and its incredible diversity provide to keep us alive.
They are often divided into four categories: a) the production of goods (wood for building, for
example); b) the provision of life-support processes (like water purification or crop pollination);
c) the availability of life-fulfilling processes (for example, aesthetic, cultural, and scientific values
and insights); and d) the preservation of future options regarding presently unrecognized values
(who knew 200 years ago that cutting down huge swaths of forest would result in us having less
oxygen to breathe and a shrinking coastline due to rising sea levels?).
Actually, there’s a lot we don’t know. In fact, it was only this year that we gained a good
understanding of whether we need just a few or a wide variety of species to keep those
ecosystem services flowing. Scientists both here and abroad combined the data from
17 major long-term biodiversity research projects and found that we need a lot
more variety than was previously apparent. The key was realizing that most studies
only considered the number of species needed to provide one service under one set of
conditions. When they looked at the full spectrum of ecosystem services over a long time
period, however, it became clear that most of the species studied played a key role at some point.
“This means that biodiversity is even more important for maintaining ecosystem services than was
previously thought,” says Dr. Forest Isbell, the lead author and investigator of this study. “Our results
indicate that many species are needed to maintain ecosystem services at multiple times and places in a
changing world, and that species are less redundant than was previously thought.”
Just like everyone else, my heart melts when I see a hungry child. But that child doesn’t only need a meal
today; she needs clean air, clean water, a home, a healthy diet, and mountains, forests, and oceans to
inspire her and sustain her heart and mind. Otherwise, it’s like building a house with no foundation; maybe
you can live in it for a while, but one storm and it just falls apart.
The foundation for Planet Earth is composed of all creatures, from ants to zebras, and we have to keep
reminding the world that if we don’t pay attention to that foundation, we may have a lot more to worry
about in our own lives. As a member of the Indianapolis Zoo, you are helping maintain the balance.
Thank you for being part of the solution.
Michael I. Crowther, President and CEO, Indianapolis Zoo

new at
the zoo
Zoo Babies
presented by Community Health Network
At the Zoo, we have very different ideas about what makes a baby adorable (see “When
Hogs Fly” on page 5). For example, if your new baby had bristles, tusks, webbed feet or a
dorsal fin, you’d have cause for alarm.
Photo: Jim Cottongim
Here are some of the cool, cute and amazing new
babies we’ve recently welcomed into our Zoo
family:
Rock Star: A Rockhopper
penguin chick hatched on
December 3, 2011. Its mother
was born here in 2000. This
makes it a second generation
for us. The chick hatched
at a weight of 66 grams
(0.146 pounds) and started
gaining weight right away. Its
prospects look great, and you
may even be able to see it on
exhibit this spring!
Kudos for Kudu: Our kudu herd increased
again in late November with the birth of a male
calf, named Bomani (Swahili for “warrior”). He
weighed 32 pounds at birth.
Fun Fact: This is the second calf for dam
Thandiwe. Thandiwe’s mom, Taraja, had a
male calf (Amiri), her fifth, in August.
Fun Fact: Penguin chicks are tended by
both parents as they grow. In the wild, one
parent will keep the chick warm while the
other is out feeding and gathering food.
Photo: Jackie Curts
Romeo, Romeo
Wherefore Art Thou: You may have already
seen him this past fall, but our newest Guinea
baboon baby, named Romeo, will soon celebrate his
first birthday! He likes to play with the other two
baboon babies, both of which are 2 years old.
Fun Fact: Did you know that there are
only four zoos in the United States that
have Guinea baboons? Indianapolis has
the largest population with a troop of 13
animals.
Pups Growing Up
There are now five smooth dog shark
juveniles on display in the Firestone
Gallery Dog Shark Touch Tank.
These five sharks, two males and
three females, were born in early
May of 2010 and are the first five
of their species to be born, raised,
and put on exhibit in human care—
anywhere!
These dog sharks have already
grown to more than twice the size
they were at birth a year and a half
ago. Come see for yourself—they are
easy to spot as they’re still noticeably
smaller than the adults.
WANT TO HELP?
Be a friend to the natural world—
become an Animal Amigo!
Donate $50 or more to receive an
Animal Amigo package for you
or a friend. Pick your favorite
animal or the featured animal.
Your donation helps provide food,
medical treatment, equipment,
habitat improvement, and daily
care for the animals at the Zoo.
For more information about
what comes in your Animal
Amigo package and which
animal is featured, contact us
at amigo@indyzoo.com,
(317) 630-2049, or visit our web
site at indianapoliszoo.com and
click on “Donate Now.”
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Boom of Blooms
new at
the zoo
Think the light show is amazing over the holidays? It is rivaled by the gorgeous
bursts of color each spring throughout the grounds of the Zoo and White
River Gardens.
Tulips (Tulipa)
Fall-planted bulb
comes in a huge array
of sizes, forms and
colors, with blooms all
through April and May.
Check indianapoliszoo.com, and the Zoo’s Facebook and Twitter
pages frequently this spring for updates from our Horticulture staff
on the latest flowers in bloom.
photos and plant descriptions by Nina Evans, Horticulturist
Serviceberry (Amelanchier)
Large shrub or small tree. White spring
blooms; edible fruit; yellow to red fall color.
Hellebores
(Helleborus)
Early blooms that
persist for months.
Evergreen leaves.
Cornelian cherry
(Cornus mas)
This shrub blooms in March,
even before forsythia. Deep red
fruit in summer.
Virginia bluebell (Mertensia virginica)
Woodland native with pink flower buds.
Ephemeral (disappears in summer). Pictured
with barrenwort (Epimedium).
Kerria or Japanese rose (Kerria japonica)
Flowers are single or double. Re-blooms.
Bright green stems. Fairly drought tolerant.
When A Hog Flies…
Think a pig can’t fly? Our new male warthog proved to be an exception to the rule
this past November as he grabbed a flight from the Honolulu Zoo to his new home
in Indianapolis.
Kazi (Swahili for “hard working man”) was born in May and needed to be handraised
due to an inattentive mother sow. He’s still little and cute, but will reach close
to 200 pounds when fully grown.
Warthogs are native to the African savannah south of the Sahara and throughout
East Africa, but will available for you to see in the Plains Biome this spring and
summer. No flying necessary!
Photo: Jackie Curts
w w w. i n d i a n a p o l i s z o o . c o m 5

white cheeked turaco
presented by Citizens Energy Group
Opening Memorial Day Weekend
by Angela McColgin, Visitor Programs Specialist
Be prepared for an extravaganza of showy
feathers, explosive color and amazing antics
as we open our all-new exhibit Memorial
Day Weekend 2012. You will be able to stroll
through three brilliant aviaries, enjoy
interactive feedings, watch a parade of
pink flamingos, and discover again
the birds that have brightened your
imagination since childhood.
Flights of Fancy: A Brilliance of Birds presented by
Citizens Energy Group offers up-close experiences with colorful
and curious birds from around the world. Designed especially for
families with young children, the focus of this all-new
Encounters exhibit is the opportunity to
get close to the animals. A nose-tobeak
experience awaits you in our
interactive aviaries and habitats:
Photo: Andy McIntyre
Feeding Opportunities:
In this aviary you will be
surrounded by hundreds of
friendly and curious budgies.
Give your seed stick a shake,
and one may even land on
your hand, arm or shoulder to
have a nibble of seed. Remember
to bring your camera (or phone)
for some great photo ops!
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Out of Africa: Take
a trip to Africa as you stroll
to the next aviaries. While
guinea fowl run along the
ground, and turacos and
superb starlings rest on perches
above, you can watch taveta
golden weavers hard at work building
their intricate nests. The southern ground
hornbills are certain to be favorites. These threefoot-tall
meat-eating birds are the jesters of the African savannah
and love to play with their food.
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Lorikeets: Colorful, tropical, playful lorikeets will greet you
in the third aviary. You’ll feel like you’re in Australia as you listen to
their cheerful songs while they drink nectar right from your hand.
Want to observe from a distance? There are many landing-free
zones outside the aviaries that provide a comfortable vantage
[Please turn to page 9]
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Flights of Fancy:
A Field Guide
Use this field guide to learn more about
some of the feathered friends you’ll be
meeting on your visit.
Budgerigar, a.k.a. “Budgie”
Melopsittacus undulatus budgerigar
This small green and yellow bird is a type of parakeet.
Budgerigars (also known as budgies) are found in the wilds
of Australia.
Fun Fact: To survive in the hot, dry outback budgies
lead a nomadic life. When times are good, they gather
in small flocks, flitting from one location to the next,
gobbling up grass seed as they go. When it’s dry and the
grasses die, flocks of thousands roam far and wide, flying
hundreds of miles to find food.
Caribbean Flamingo
Phoenicopterus ruber ruber
Of the six flamingo species,
Caribbean flamingos are perhaps
the brightest, sporting red, pink
and orange on their legs, bills,
and faces. Long legs let flamingos
wade into deep water to look for
food. They trap shrimp and other
small water creatures by holding
their bills underwater and sucking
in and pumping out water and
mud.
Fun Fact: The source of the
flamingo’s pink color is pigment
taken from the shells of the small
crustaceans they eat.
[Please turn to page 8]
Backyard
Birds
While Flights of Fancy
showcases a number of
exotic birds from far-flung
locales such as Africa, Australia
and the Caribbean, we haven’t
forgotten about our native feathered
friends. As a part of this new exhibit, a special
landscaped area was created, aimed specifically
at demonstrating how to attract local birdlife.
Trees, shrubs and perennials such as white pine,
serviceberry, spicebush, purple coneflower and
little bluestem were planted to provide shelter,
food and nesting material for our backyard birds
year-round.
Creating a bird-friendly landscape at your home
is relatively simple if you keep in mind a few key
points. Birds need a space where they can raise
their young, hide from predators, or escape from
severe weather. Evergreens are effective in this
regard, providing nesting sites and cover.
Each bird species has its own unique food
requirements, and these may change as
the bird matures or as the seasons change.
Fruiting plants such as crabapple, mulberry and
elderberry will attract woodpeckers and cardinals
among others, while nectar-producing plants,
such as trumpet creeper and bee balm, will bring
in hummingbirds and orioles.
Providing a source of water, especially moving
water, is another good way to attract birds to
your yard. This can be easily accomplished using
a bird bath or a small fountain. The last thing to
remember is to take the
time to enjoy what
you have created.
Landscaping for
the birds can be
very rewarding
–don’t be
surprised if they
sing your praises!
Photos: Jackie Curts
Lori Roedell,
Curator of Horticulture
w w w. i n d i a n a p o l i s z o o . c o m 7

Flights of Fancy Field Guide
[Continued from page 7]
Superb Starling
Lamprotornis superbus
Vivid metallic green
and blue feathers
coupled with a glossy
black head make this bird
a real standout in the African
savannah. Superb starlings live
in large family groups made
up of parents, stepparents,
siblings, aunts, uncles,
nieces, and nephews.
Fun Fact: While only a few females in the group
lay eggs each year, the entire family helps raise the
chicks by bringing food and watching for predators.
This cooperation ensures that more chicks make it to
adulthood.
Southern Ground
Hornbill
Bucorvus leadbeateri
The largest of all the hornbills, this 13-pound, three-foottall
African bird eats meat. Although they can fly, southern
ground hornbills spend most of their time on the ground,
walking six to seven miles each day looking for food.
Fun Fact: Their long bills are used to stab their prey,
which includes grasshoppers, beetles, frogs, lizards, and
venomous snakes. They have even been known to take
on animals as large as a small monkey.
Rainbow Lorikeet
Trichoglossus
haematodus
Lorikeets are small
parrots found in the
forests of Australia, and
the rainbow lorikeet is
the most colorful of
them all.
Fun Fact: Rainbow
lorikeets often dine on flowers rather than on seeds
and nuts like most parrots. Their beaks are perfect for
crushing flowers and their unique brush-tipped tongue
mops up the flower nectar. Lorikeets also use their
tongues to gather flower pollen and pack it into easy-toeat
bundles.
Members-only Preview
May 24 & 25 • 4-6pm • Free for Members
Be among the very first to see the brilliance of birds at the
Indianapolis Zoo. Join us for this members-only exclusive—
no reservations are required, but just be sure to bring your
membership card.
Taveta Golden
Weaver
Ploceus
castaneiceps
Spectacular
gold colors
and incredible
nest-building
skills are
what give this
African bird
its name. Male
weavers construct
elaborate circular
nests suspended
from the thin branches
of acacia trees. Each piece of
grass or straw is woven into the
nest so tightly that it is nearly
impossible to remove a single
strand from the completed nest.
Fun Fact: A male will only
be picked as a mate if his nest
construction meets a female’s high
standards.
Photo: Kevin Graham (Disney Animal Kingdom)
8 i n d i a n a p o l i s z o o s p r i n g + s u m m e r 2 0 1 2

[Continued from page 6]
point where you’ll be able to enjoy all of
the sights and sounds.
Splash of Caribbean Color:
Also, look for a sandy beach, large
lagoon, and lush plants to find a stand of
flamingos feeling right at home. These
festive birds are as pink as you’d imagine!
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Native WILDLIFE: We haven’t
forgotten about birds from around
Indiana. An area planted with indigenous
plants and trees will provide a special
home just for them. Colorful birds aren’t
just for other continents; Africa has golden
weavers, but Indiana has goldfinches.
Australia has red lories, but we have
spectacular cardinals. Be inspired to invite
birds to your own backyard by seeing what
we’ve done with ours.
Not Just for the Birds
The new Flights of Fancy exhibit will
include more than birds—there are
great new amenities that will feather
your family’s nest, too! Look for
these great additions:
Nursing Moms Nest presented by
Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana
University Health: A quiet place for
moms to care for and nurse babies in
semi-privacy.
4-D Theater: An all-new actionpacked
theater with 3-D and
4-D shows that will blow your
imagination!
New food options: Enjoy
smoothies and tropically-inspired
menu items.
Play Area: A special area for
children under 5 years old to explore.
Keep up on all the latest
updates in your free
monthly Member eNews.
Not signed up? It’s easy and
free! Just email “Sign me up” to
membership@indyzoo.com.
Growing Up…
We love that members are so invested in our Zoo, and interested in
updates on their favorite animals. Here are the latest stories about
some of our most “charismatic” creatures.
Dolphin Taz: Swimming, diving, chasing, spinning…
who is that wildly happy dolphin? It is Taz, enjoying life
with his adopted dolphin “aunts.” While China and
Ripley want to mother him, Indy thinks he’s a great
buddy to play with. When she gets too playful, China or
Ripley swim in to settle things down. This is normal for
dolphins. Females often care for calves that are not their
own to help the mother and gain mothering experience.
Taz is now a young adolescent living with the other dolphins
and participating in training sessions. He is an apt student and
learns quickly. Whether it is a husbandry behavior like a layout, or a
show behavior like a pirouette, he is ready and willing to participate.
Taz uses his signature whistle to communicate. He also uses the familiar “pec rub”
(pectoral fin rub) to receive comfort from his “aunts” and his trainers. Whether
playing with his pool mates, his trainers, or simply his shadow, Taz is a living legacy of
what a team of dedicated people can do to help conserve wildlife. Taz is now making
his debut in shows with his “aunts.” Come see for yourself.
Photo: Jackie Curts
Submitted by Linda Beverly, Trainer, Marine Mammals
Elephant Kalina: Kalina’s winning personality is
definitely becoming more noticeable! She is extremely
friendly, outgoing, and energetic. Like the young of
other intelligent animals, Kalina enjoys playing with
her toys. But they have to be tough and durable to
endure her attention—some of Kalina’s favorites
include boomer balls, tires, and pylon cones.
Of course, with all that playing Kalina needs to keep
up her calorie count. She is still nursing from her mom,
Kubwa, for her main source of nutrition but is starting
to explore solid foods as well. Kalina has been enjoying
spending time with her mom and continuing to meet her herd. She
was recently introduced to Zahara, our 5-year-old female, and seems to
have found a playmate!
Walrus Aurora: As you visit the walrus exhibit, you may
notice that Aurora, our female walrus, has a new friend.
We recently moved our male sea lion, Diego, over to the
exhibit to be a companion animal for her. After weeks of
introduction training, they are now living together on
exhibit and becoming more and more comfortable with
each other every day.
Seals, sea lions, and walrus are all related to one another
as pinnipeds and share many of the same characteristics.
New graphics at the exhibit will help you to tell the two
species apart. Aurora and Diego stay outdoors all year long,
so we hope you will come see them together this spring!
Photo: Abbie Mingus
Submitted by Niki Kowalski, Senior Elephant Trainer, Plains
Photo: Fred Cate
Submitted by Lisa Oland, Senior Trainer, Marine Mammal
w w w. i n d i a n a p o l i s z o o . c o m 9

in the
know
Race-a Cheetah
in partnership through the Tony Stewart Foundation
You raced a cheetah ... and the cheetah won. Maybe that’s
not such a surprising feat for the world’s fastest land animal.
More surprising is that wild cheetahs everywhere won too because your
2011 racing donations raised $15,726.55 for the Cheetah Conservation
Fund (CCF) in Namibia. In addition to the funds raised in 2010, that
means in only two short years we’ve raised a total of $27,156.
Your donations will allow CCF to provide care for orphaned cheetahs,
raise litters of livestock-guard dogs, and do more research to learn
about wild cheetahs. Thank you for racing and for helping cheetahs
win the race for survival.
Tiger Trackers
on Facebook
Great Family-Friendly Activity
What can you do to help save the
endangered Amur tiger? Play Tiger
Trackers on Facebook, the Indianapolis
Zoo’s first Facebook game!
The game is a fun and interactive way
to better understand the
plight of the Amur tiger
and what is being done
to save them. Build your
camp, gather supplies,
face difficult challenges,
and help researcher Penny
as she works to study and
save the wild Amur tiger.
Start playing today at
http://apps.facebook.com
/tigertrackers/
Celebrating Support of the Tarangire Elephant Project
Since 2007, the Indianapolis Zoo has contributed $250,000 to help Dr. Charles
Foley save wild African elephants.
43 % 29 %
ersey
Project Facts
In Tanzania, Dr. Foley’s
team is studying 1,000
individual elephants within
the 7,800-square-mile Tarangire
ecosystem (equivalent to the size of
New Jersey).
How has our support
helped save elephants?
43 % 29 28%
% More
New Jersey
Maintenance
and fuel for four vehicles to track
the elephants over their extensive
ranges.
These elephants make up almost
50% of the total population in
Tarangire.
Salaries and
benefits for 35
anti-poaching
scouts who often
travel by bicycle.
than 100,000
meals and supplies to
support camp staff and
scientists.
1 0 i n d i a n a p o l i s z o o s p r i n g + s u m m e r 2 0 1 2

in the
know
Odd, Magical and Gorgeous Orchids
Did you see the flower that looked like an alien? Or the one
with blooms so tiny you need a magnifying glass to see
them? These are just a couple of the many surprises that
orchids hold in store for 2012.
Conservation
Station 2012
presented by UPS Foundation
This spring the Zoo’s Hix Institute
for Research and Conservation
will launch the fourth season of
Conservation Station. This hands-on,
interactive exhibit teaches kids about
endangered animals and what we can
all do to help secure a future for them
in the wild.
Polar Bear Plunge is the latest
addition to the experience. This
larger-than-life game (inspired by
the children’s tabletop game “Don’t
Break the Ice”) offers kids quick
and easy tips on what they can do
to protect polar bears. Look for
Conservation Station at area festivals
and on Zoo grounds during the
summer and early fall, and see if you
can help keep the polar bear from
taking the “plunge”!
Thank you to all our members who followed us so
closely and commented about some of the orchid
show’s shining stars. Many of them will return
again this year. From the mysterious “rat tail”
rescue orchid that many Facebook followers
helped identify, to the cascading old phalaenopsis
that was quite the spring showstopper. And who could
have missed the odd and wonderfully fragrant
up-side-down blooming stanhopea orchids that
bloomed in the late summer and fall months.
Missed it? Take a closer look and discover a whole new world of beauty.
Mike Stockman, Horticulturist
Travel with a Cause
Travelling the world with the Indianapolis Zoo is the
smart choice. You are assured an amazing, ecologicallyresponsible
experience, expertly led by senior Zoo staff.
Check out these incredible adventures for 2012.
Borneo • May 7-22, 2012
BORNEO. The name conjures visions of a strange and exotic
paradise. Join the Indianapolis Zoo when we explore this
mysterious island teeming with an extraordinary diversity of
plant and animal life, and learn about its modern-day challenges.
Tanzania • November 5-17, 2012
From the plains of the Serengeti to the herds of elephants roaming Tarangire
National Park, this special safari to the home of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife
will create memories that will last a lifetime.
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For more information on how you can travel with the Zoo, visit our web site at
indianapoliszoo.com under “Special Events,” or call Jennifer Barker at (317) 630-2014.
Photo: Fred Cate
Hidden in Plain Sight: Reeves Muntjac
Some animals in our collection are so well known that they hardly need an
introduction, like dolphins, polar bears, and tigers. But what about the Reeves
muntjac?
A what? A muntjac is a diminutive deer from southeast China that grows up
to two feet high as an adult. Male muntjac have tiny antlers that they shed
seasonally, large canine teeth to fight with, and—interestingly enough—can
bark when they’re upset. Look for them with the red pandas in Forests. And
remember: in spite of the big teeth and barking, this is a deer!
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in the
know
2012 Indianapolis Prize
Outstanding Group of
Nominees Announced
The nominees for the 2012 Indianapolis
Prize represent a truly outstanding group of
conservationists from every corner of the globe. From
researching the world’s largest carnivore—the magnificent polar bear—to trying
to save the tiny tree kangaroo, the 29 nominees share one thing in common—their
devotion to and passion for saving the most endangered animals on the planet.
From among the nominees, the Indianapolis Prize Nominating Committee will select six
finalists who will be announced in April 2012. The winner of the biennial $100,000 Prize
and the Lilly Medal will be determined by the Prize Jury and announced in mid-summer.
The winning conservationist will be honored at the Indianapolis Prize Gala presented by
Cummins, Inc. on September 29 at the JW Marriott Hotel in downtown Indianapolis.
The Indianapolis Zoo is proud to offer the Indianapolis Prize as one of its primary
conservation initiatives. The 2010 Prize was awarded to Dr. Iain Douglas-Hamilton,
founder and CEO of Save the Elephants and legendary conservation figure. Additional
Prize predecessors include Dr. George Archibald, the co-founder of the International
Crane Foundation, and Dr. George Schaller, the world’s pre-eminent field biologist
and vice president of science and exploration for the World Conservation Society. The
Indianapolis Prize has received support from the Eli Lilly and Company Foundation
since its inception in 2006.
To learn more about the Indianapolis Prize and these 29 standout nominees, visit
indianapolisprize.org or at facebook.com/indianapolisprize.
Campaign for Conservation and Community
Find out more at indianapoliszoofuture.com
Member tips:
Spring + Summer
Considerations
Here are some useful reminders for
your visits this spring and summer.
s s s s s
Spring Break: Warmer weather
brings out the flowers, the birds…
and everyone else. If the forecast
is for 70 degrees and sunny, arrive
a little earlier in the day to beat
the crowds.
Race for the Cure and 500
Festival Mini-Marathon:
Regular opening hours will be
slightly delayed for the running of
Race for the Cure on April 21 and
the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon
on May 5. If you are participating
in either event, be sure to look
for our elephants and mascots
showing their support.
Kroger Splash Park: The
Splash Park is open when
temperatures are above 70. Make
sure you come ready for some
water fun and bring a change of
clothes for the kids.
Extended Hours: Enjoy
extended hours all summer long!
The Zoo stays open until 7pm on
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays
between Memorial Day and Labor
Day.
Zoobilation presented by
Indianapolis Power & Light
Company:
The Zoo is closed all day on
Friday, June 8, to prepare for this
year’s event.
Check our web site or
Members Only page at
indianapoliszoo.com
for all the latest news,
events and fun!
1 2 i n d i a n a p o l i s z o o s p r i n g + s u m m e r 2 0 1 2

GET more
INVOLVED
Ready to
GO WILD?
Put a Tiger on Your Trunk
Advancing Animal Conservation
MEMBER
EXCLUSIVE!
The Indianapolis Zoo license plate is
now available!
For the first time ever, there’s an Indianapolis Zoo license plate
in Indiana—and everyone wants one. So how do you order your
own? It’s easy! For only $40, you can purchase yours online at
myBMV.com/specialty or just ask for it at any Indiana license
branch. And it’s for a great cause—as a specialty plate, $25 of
the fee will go directly toward food and medical care for the
animals at the Indianapolis Zoo.
Want to stake your territory? Personalize your plate to show
off your wild side! Just think—the possibilities are endless. Keep
an eye on the latest Member eNews at indianapoliszoo.com for
license plate updates and contests.
Order yours now at myBMV.com/specialty
2012 Indianapolis Zoo Camps
in partnership through a conservation education gift
from the Tony Stewart Foundation
Help the children in your life discover the world of animals
at Zoo camp this summer. Designed for children aged 5 –
14 years, Zoo camps are designed to encourage discovery
and appreciation of wildlife with special emphasis on
conservation and stewardship of the earth.
Your camper will have fun, make new friends, and explore
the Zoo while participating in games, crafts, tours, shows,
animal visits, and more. Space is limited and camps do sell
out, so sign up early. For more information about our camps
or to register, visit us online at indianapoliszoo.com anytime
or call us at (317) 630-2180
Monday through
Friday from 9am
to 3pm.
Dolphin Trainer 101
Session dates:
April 2 & 3 / April 4 & 5 / Oct 18 & 19 / Oct 25 & 26
9am-4pm • Reservations required • Ages 10-14*
Experience what it takes to be a dolphin trainer and get
to know the members of our dolphin pod. This two-day
adventure of a lifetime provides the opportunity for
young people to explore the world of dolphins up close
and in person.
Over the course of the session, participants will learn how
we train and care for our dolphins through special behindthe-scenes
experiences in our Dolphin Pavilion, including
attending the dolphin show and meeting the trainers,
dolphins and other marine mammals. Participants will
discover how to identify our dolphins individually and how
scientists study dolphins in the wild. All of this leads up to
the ultimate experience: venturing into the water to meet
our incredible dolphins one-on-one!
This program is an exclusive opportunity for Indianapolis
Zoo members, and is not currently available to nonmembers.
Space is limited and reservations are required.
The cost for the two-day session is $350. For more
information or to register, call our Adventure Line at
(317) 630-2076, Monday-Friday from 9am-3pm.
*Please note: Participants must be at least 4 feet 6 inches tall and
between the ages of 10-14 years to participate in this program.
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Special events
“Zuri in the morning” by Elise Schweitzer
Elegant Vintages 14th Annual
International Wine Auction
presented by Fifth Third Private Bank
March 17, 2012
Conrad Hotel, Indianapolis
This elegant event features both live and
silent auctions and also will include nonwine
items such as original works of art,
winery trips, private dinners, designer
jewelry, behind-the-scenes tours at the
Zoo, and more!
Other festivities include The Turkle &
Associates and Phases Skin Care & Laser
Center VIP Patrons’ Reception; multicourse
gourmet dinners paired with
exquisite wines; and live entertainment
following the auction. For more
information and to order your tickets,
visit the Special Events section on
indianapoliszoo.com.
Breakfast with the Bunny
April 7 • 8:30-10:30am
Reservations Required
Enjoy a fun-filled spring morning
complete with a buffet breakfast, crafts,
live music, cookie decorating, and a
special visit from the Easter Bunny.
Tickets are $20 for member adults and
$14 for member children. Reservations
are now open and the event sells out
quickly. Just call the Membership Office at
(317) 630-2046, Monday-Friday, between
8am-5pm. Hop to it!
Power Recycling Weekend
presented by Brightpoint
April 28 and 29 • 9am-3pm
Indianapolis Zoo Parking Lot
Help keep hazardous materials out of
landfills. Get rid of your old electronics
the environmentally responsible way…
recycle them at the Indianapolis Zoo!
Most electronics—including cell phones,
microwaves, and keyboards—will be
Naturally Inspired Art
Naturally Inspired Paint Out Day
April 28 • 9am-3pm (free for members)
Naturally Inspired Silent Auction
August 23 • 5:30-7:30pm (reservations required)
Take a look through the eyes of the artist—whether she’s a human or an 8,000-pound
elephant—and gain new insight into the beauty and wonder of the natural world.
Each spring, the Zoo invites a group of 15 juried artists to paint “en plein air”
(outdoors), creating their vision of the Zoo and Gardens. Walk Zoo grounds and
observe the artists at work. Watch as they turn a blank canvas or a hunk of clay into
something truly extraordinary. Past works have included stunning images of cheetahs,
elephants, bears, and more. Some of our more artistically-inclined animals may also
pick up a brush of their own and join in the fun.
After the paintings have dried and been professionally framed by The Great Frame Up
of Indianapolis, they will be hung on display in the Schaefer Rotunda at the Gardens for
the summer, June 1-August 22. Then on August 23, you are invited to attend a silent
auction and artist’s reception inside the Hulman Riverhouse at the Gardens. For more
program details, visit indianapoliszoo.com and search “Naturally Inspired.”
accepted. We will even take
old computer hard drives
and double-wipe them clean
before they’re destroyed.
We make it easy to bring in
items and know they will be
disposed of safely without
ever leaving your car.
NEW!
Mother’s Day
Weekend
May 12 and 13
Join us on Mother’s Day weekend to
celebrate all the moms out there. After
all, some carry their children for 9 months
and others (like elephants) for 22! Learn
keeper insights on animal families while
enjoying the day with your own. Special
food options will be available in both sitdown
and casual settings.
Photo: Kortni Fennig
Find the perfect Mother’s Day card to
print, color and share at
indianapoliszoo.com under Special Events.
Zoopolis 500
presented by
American Dairy
Association
May 23 • 11:30am
The month of May
would not be complete
without the Zoopolis
500 presented by
American Dairy
Association. Race
down for to the
Greatest Spectacle
in Tortoise Racing as the Zoo’s radiated
tortoises battle it out for first dibs on a
beautiful fruit platter in the Dean’s Arena.
As with any good race, the morning
would not be complete without princesses
to meet, a pace car to seek, a parade to
cheer, celebrities to endear, and milk
as the treat. Special famous guests will
provide expert insight and commentary
on one of the Zoo’s oldest and most
popular traditions.
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Special events
Flights of Fancy:
A Brilliance of Birds
presented by Citizens Energy Group
Opening Memorial Day Weekend
Members-Only Preview,
May 24 & 25 • 4-6pm
Join us in celebrating the opening of an allnew
area dedicated to family interactive
encounters. There are multiple aviaries
with hundreds of birds, special bird feeding
stations, a play area, a brand-new 4-D
Theater, and new amenities, including the
Nursing Moms Nest presented by Riley
Hospital for Children at Indiana University
Health, and a tropical-themed snack area.
Read all about the exhibit and more on
pages 6-9.
Zoobilation 2012
presented by Indianapolis Power &
Light Company
June 8, 2012 • 7pm-Midnight
Revel under the stars with the Indianapolis
Zoo’s community of supporters at the
biggest party of the year. Join us in
celebrating this year’s theme—The Grand
Voyage—as we set sail to a new and
unexplored exotic paradise that will excite
and delight your senses.
Proceeds help support the Zoo’s ongoing
stewardship efforts around the globe and
close to home.
VIP Party presented by the Scott A. Jones
Foundation and ChaCha
5:30-7pm
An exclusive VIP Party will be held for
a limited number of guests from 5:30-
7pm. VIPs arrive early and receive: a first
opportunity to dine; preferred parking;
champagne reception; special viewing
of Flights of Fancy; access to the airconditioned
VIP Lounge in the Dolphin
Adventure Gallery; and VIP credentials
to wear during the event. Upgrade your
tickets today by calling (317) 630-2188.
Photo: Susan Lang
African Lion Awareness
Weekend
presented by BMO Harris Bank
June 23 and 24
Learn more about our three amazing
lions–male Nyack, and females Shamfa
and Zuri. Keepers will host special chats,
and you can get your hands on actual lion
enrichment items and artifacts.
Golfari presenting sponsor
FORUM Credit Union
Country Club of Indianapolis
July 30, 2012
It’s not every day playing golf can help
save the planet. But each summer golfers
help the Indianapolis Zoo accomplish its
conservation mission during a day filled
with fun, laughter, great companionship,
good food, and golf! The Indianapolis
Zoo’s annual golf fundraising event
includes lots of surprises along the course.
For more information, contact Carol
Howard, choward@indyzoo.com or
(317) 630-2188, or visit
indianapoliszoo.com and click on
“Special Events.”
Additional Golfari support provided by Browning
Day Mullins Dierdorf Architects and Indianapolis
Business Journal.
An Insider’s guide to Summer Zoo Concerts
Zoolapalooza Animals and All That Jazz
Music Popular cover songs Variety of recognized jazz
Dates 5 Friday Nights: June 15-July 13 6 Thursday Nights: July 12-August 16
Times
Location
Food
Cost
Members
Kick off your weekend right
with a smoking-hot Friday
night! Enjoy good music, food,
drinks, and extended Zoo
hours. Hear great local bands
perform your favorite tunes
while you make the most of a
fun evening with your friends,
family or co-workers.
After hours the Zoo has a truly magical
ambiance with lighter crowds, a
private feel to popular exhibits, cooler
temperatures, and the sound of live
music—and good vibes—throughout
the grounds. Enjoy live performances
by great jazz groups, prizes from area
jazz organizations, and chill out and
enjoy the Zoo after hours.
Concerts 5:30-8:30pm. Animals, rides and mascots available until 7pm.
Café on the Commons. Under the Party Pavilion in the case of rain.
Tables available on a first-come, first-served basis. Lawn chairs welcome.
Full buffet and bar are available in addition to Café on the Commons.
Please note that food and beverages may not be brought in.
Included with Zoo admission. Free for Zoo members.
Free rides on a featured attraction each night from 5-7pm.
Keep up with the latest, including lineup announcements @ indianapoliszoo.com
under Special Events!
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1200 W. Washington Street
P.O. Box 22309
Indianapolis, IN 46222-0309
Non-Profit
Organization
U.S. Postage
PAID
Indianapolis, IN
Permit No. 2460
indianapoliszoo.com
FREE
11" x 17"
poster inside!
page # page 4 page # page 6 page # page 9 page #
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zoo
Calendar
S p r i n g + s u m m e r 2 0 1 2
Not signed up for
the eNews? It’s easy! Just
email, “Sign up” to
membership@indyzoo.com
and we’ll take care of
the rest!
March 1-September 4
Odd, Magical and Gorgeous Orchids
White River Gardens
March 17
Elegant Vintages International Wine Auction
presented by Fifth Third Private Bank
Conrad Hotel*
April 7
Breakfast with the Bunny*
April 28
Naturally Inspired Paint Out Day
April 28-29
Power Recycling Weekend
presented by Brightpoint
May 12-13
Mother’s Day Weekend Celebration
May 24 & 25
Members-Only Preview
Flights of Fancy: A Brilliance of Birds
presented by Citizens Energy Group
May 26
Grand Opening
Flights of Fancy: A Brilliance of Birds
presented by Citizens Energy Group
June 8 (Zoo Closed)
Zoobilation* presented by Indianapolis Power &
Light Company
June 15, 22 & 29, July 6 & 13
Zoolapalooza
June 23-24
Lion Awareness Weekend
presented by BMO Harris Bank
July 12, 19 & 26, August 2, 9 & 16
Animals and All That Jazz
July 30
Golfari*, presenting sponsor Forum Credit Union
Country Club of Indianapolis
August 23
Naturally Inspired Paint Out
Silent Auction & Reception*
* Reservations required
Operating Hours Zoo General Info: (317) 630-2001
March 1–March 29
May 25–September 3
Animal Amigo: (317) 630-2049
Membership: (317) 630-2046
9am-4pm Daily
9am-5pm Monday-Thursday;
Contributions: (317) 630-2025
School Field Trips/Class Reservations:
9am-7pm Friday-Sunday & Holidays
March 30–May 24
Corporate Sponsorships: (317) 630-2009 (317) 630-2000
9am-4pm, Monday-Thursday; closed june 8 - Zoobilation
Group Sales: (317) 630-2051
Volunteer Services: (317) 630-2041
9am-5pm, Friday-Sunday
Delayed Openings:
Facility Rentals: (317) 630-2051
Adventure Line: (317) 630-2076
April 21- Race for the Cure
Gift Shop: (317) 423-2577
Zoobilation: (317) 630-2026
May 5 - 500 Festival Mini-Marathon