Zoological Society of Milwaukee Members’ Newsletter ... · Reciprocal zoos and aquariums: We update our list of zoos ... mailing. If you’ve changed your address on your identification,

Zoological Society of Milwaukee Wild Things September-October 2016 XX

Zoological Society of Milwaukee Members’ NewsletterNovember-December 2016

Here are six gift ideas for the holiday season available at the Zoological Society of Milwaukee’s online gift store (zoosociety.org/Shop/Holiday.php). Give a gift your loved ones will treasure. The animals will thank you for it.

A Zoo Pass makes a perfect gift. After two visits, a Zoo Pass pays for itself. A Zoo Pass membership includes a year of FREE admission to the Zoo, discounts and access to special

events, priority registration to our educational classes and camps, and a 10% discount at the Zoo’s gift shops (and it’s tax deductible!). Upgrade to Zoo Pass Plus to include parking. For more information and to purchase, visit zoopass.com.

Sponsor the Milwaukee County Zoo’s two-toed sloth, Fezzik, and you will receive a Sponsor an Animal decal, an animal fact sheet, a behind-the-scenes look at the Zoo at a special

August event, a plush-toy sloth, a 4-by-6-inch photo of Fezzik, sponsor recognition on our “All in the Family” donor board and more. When you sponsor an animal at the Milwaukee County Zoo, you are contributing directly to exhibit improvements, building upgrades and the overall quality of habitats. For more information, visit zoosociety.org.

Celebrate 25 years of handcrafted, pewter ornaments by Wisconsin artist Andy Schumann. This year’s holiday

ornament features the Milwaukee County Zoo’s new adult male Amur tiger, Strannik. Like your family members, tigers are one-of-a-kind creatures; no two tigers have the same stripe patterns. Show family members how special they are with this $14 ornament. To purchase, visit zoosociety.org/Ornament.

When you go to the Zoo, it’s hard not to be charmed by the African elephants, Ruth and Brittany. The Zoo

will soon break ground on a new exhibit for the elephants that will give them more indoor and outdoor space. To fill

the new exhibit, the Zoo needs enrichment equipment, which the zookeepers provide to the animals to stimulate natural behaviors.

Give to the Zoological Society’s Annual Appeal in the name of someone you love to show how much you care about them and the elephants. To give, visit zoosociety.org/Appeal.

Purchase a gift certificate through the Zoological Society of Milwaukee, and the lucky recipient can apply it toward a Zoo Pass, Zoological Society events like Zoo Brew

and Zootastic, education classes and camps, or an animal sponsorship package. Order at zoosociety.org/Shop.

Gift an animal-loving child a membership to the Zoological Society’s Kids Conservation Club. The $20 membership includes a certificate of animal sponsorship, an animal fact

sheet, hands-on workshops, an invitation to a behind-the-scenes event in August and more.

1Fezzik, the two-toed sloth, in plush-toy form.

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6In This Issue …Festive details on Fantastic Forest … page 2Inside scoop on Aldo Leopold show … page 4

A volunteer full of pride and jokes … page 8Pacu is part of the family … page 14

2 Zoological Society of Milwaukee Wild Things November-December 2016

Memberanda

Fantastic ForestSponsored by Hawks LandscapeDec. 2-29

During this holiday season at the Milwaukee County Zoo, you’ll see a beautiful array of unique, handcrafted ornaments featuring many different — and colorful — animals. The ornaments, created by Milwaukee-area youth groups, will cover 63 evergreen trees donated by Hawks Landscape. From Dec. 2 through Dec. 29, venture into the Fantastic Forest in the Zoo’s U.S. Bank Gathering Place to admire the vibrant artistry of local youth. These decorated trees will surely make the Fantastic Forest live up to its name.

If you’re looking for extra holiday magic, visit the zookeeper-hosted Giving Tree that will be decorated with ornaments listing “toys” that you can purchase for the animals at the Zoo. To donate to the Giving Tree, call 414-256-5466.

Zoological Society office hours through April: weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; weekends, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Zoo hours through February: weekdays, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; weekends, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Please be aware that the Zoo’s drive-up admission gates close 45 minutes prior to the posted Zoo closing time. The walk-in admission gate closes one hour before the posted Zoo closing time.

Holiday hours: The Zoological Society offices will be closed Nov. 24 for Thanksgiving and Dec. 25. The office will remain open from 9:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. on Dec. 24 and 31, and Jan. 1. Visit us online anytime at zoopass.com.

Payment information at Zoo admission gates: The Milwaukee County Zoo staff does not accept checks for Zoo Pass purchases or renewal payments at the Zoo’s admission gates. Please contact our office at 414-258-2333 if you would like to visit the Zoo to pick up or purchase a Zoo Pass or Sponsor an Animal gift package.

For tax-time tips, Zoo Pass benefits and other details, please visit: zoosociety.org/Membership/Things2Know.php

Tax-deductible portions for the Zoo Pass categories are: Individual (Basic: $60, Plus: $71), Individual +1 or Couple (Basic: $70, Plus: $80), Individual +2, Family and Single Adult Family (Basic: $75, Plus: $95), Family +1 (Basic $94, Plus: $104), Family +2 (Basic: $101, Plus: $113), Family +3 (Basic: $117, Plus: $126), Affiliate (Basic: $154, Plus: $157), Benefactor (Basic: $218, Plus: $220). Set up a MyAccount and view the tax-deductible portion of all your contributions for the tax year.

Reciprocal zoos and aquariums: We update our list of zoos and aquariums that offer reduced or free admission to our members with the Association of Zoos & Aquariums in January each year. We only reciprocate with AZA-accredited facilities and reserve the right not to reciprocate with zoos and aquar-iums located within close proximity of the Milwaukee County Zoo. Please be sure to contact our offices prior to your travels at 414-258-2333, or visit zoosociety.org/Membership/ Reciprocal.php, if you have any questions.

Moving? Please call us when you change your address or name. The call saves us money because when the post office returns your mail with a forwarding address, we pay twice for mailing. If you’ve changed your address on your identification, replacement cards may be purchased with the new information for $5.

WILD THINGSIssue No. 127, November-December 2016

Wild Things is a membership newsletter published by the Zoological Society of Milwaukee six times a year.

Editor: Colton DunhamContributing editor: Stacy Vogel Davis

Designer: Kevin de Wane

Contact the Zoological Society at:10005 W. Bluemound Rd., Milwaukee, WI 53226-4383

Phone: 414-258-2333 Web: zoosociety.org

Contact the Milwaukee County Zoo at:10001 W. Bluemound Rd., Milwaukee, WI 53226-4383

Phone: 414-256-5412 Web: milwaukeezoo.org

Sandra R., of Milwaukee, and daughter Isabella, 4, admire a beautifully decorated tree at last year’s Fantastic Forest. Photo by Richard Brodzeller

Breakfast & Lunch with SantaSponsored by Racine Danish KringlesDec. 3-4, 10-11, 17-18; breakfast at 9 a.m. on Saturdays or lunch at noonCost: $20 ages 3 to adult, $6 for children 2 and under. Parking fee not included.Online registration begins 8 a.m. Oct. 31 at milwaukeezoo.org.

Every year when the snow starts to fall to the ground, it’s a reminder for many that Santa and holiday cheer are just a short sleigh ride away. Before he gets busy delivering gifts for everyone on his “nice” list, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be making appearances at the Milwaukee County Zoo where kids can meet them and enjoy a festive meal including scrumptious kringle. This event will be held in the Peck Welcome Center and includes en-tertainment and a gift for each child in attendance. After the meal, make sure to head outdoors to visit the animals that love the winter scenery as much as we do. Please note that breakfast is served at 9 a.m. on Saturdays only, and lunch is at noon on Saturdays and Sundays. Children, get your wish list ready to share!

Samson Stomp & Romp Sponsored by Amica Insurance Jan. 15 starting at 9:30 a.m.For more information and to register, go to milwaukeezoo.org.

It’s time to put on your running shoes and run as fast as a cheetah. On second thought, maybe that isn’t such a good idea because cheetahs can only run quickly for short bursts. Whether you’re a competitive runner or just in it for an excuse to get some exercise, the Samson Stomp & Romp is the place to be in January. The annual race on Zoo grounds brings together runners of all speeds to honor Samson, the Zoo’s famous silverback gorilla. Four races are offered: a competitive 5K run, which can include teams; a two-mile fun run; a one-mile romp; and a quarter-mile romp for children. Individual runners can pre-register for $25 and teams for $20 per runner. The children’s romp is $10 per child. Each reg-istration includes a long-sleeve T-shirt, Zoo admission and parking. Please keep in mind that Zoo Pass mem-berships and gift certificates cannot be used for this event. Same-day registration costs $30. Ready, set, go!

(Above) Katelyn B., 3, of Wauwatosa, enjoys a piece of kringle at last year’s Breakfast with Santa. (Below) Emily P., 3, of Menomonee Falls, visits with Santa at last year’s event. Photos by Richard Brodzeller

Zoological Society of Milwaukee Wild Things November-December 2016 3

The Wheeler family of Spring Grove, Ill., poses with “Samson” at last year’s Stomp & Romp. From left are mom Amy, son Billy, 6, and dad Bill. Photos by Olga Kornienko

In 1877, famous Scottish-American conserva-tionist John Muir, who grew up in Wisconsin, penned the words: “In every walk with na-ture, one receives far more than he seeks.” Known as the father of the national parks, Muir influenced conservationists from Theodore Roosevelt to Gaylord Nelson. One of Muir’s most notable fans was the grandfather of con-servation himself, Aldo Leopold. Leopold was a pioneering preservationist in Wisconsin, best known for his collection of essays, “A Sand County Almanac.” Today, he stands in front

of us, adorned in a 1930s- esque button-down shirt and carrying his journal. But it’s not Aldo Leopold, who has long been gone. It’s a Kohl’s Wild Theater actor, and he is repeating the words, “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.”

This is the backdrop for a fun-filled, educational 45-minute musical from Kohl’s Wild Theater that will debut in January 2017. “It’s based

on the writings of Aldo and the experiences of Estella, his daughter,” says Dave McLellan, theater coordinator for Kohl’s Wild Theater. “The story itself is fictional, but the characters are derived from the writings of Aldo Leopold himself.” In fact, Estella Leopold, who is still alive and is a professor emeritus at the University of Washington, was consulted on the plot along with representatives of the Aldo Leopold Foundation.

The musical, “Aldo Leopold and the Ghost of Sand County,” explores ways people can help and hurt nature through the eyes of Leopold’s three youngest children, Estella, Carl and Nina. When their father mysteriously disappears at the hands of a bearded ghost, the children must solve the “curse of Sand County” to find him. The characters, dressed in early 20th century attire, will act in front of a wood-like set, watermarked with cursive to resemble Leopold’s journal pages. They are aided along their journey by beautiful, handmade animal puppets.

Writer Zach Woods and composer Matt Zembrowski have been working on the script for a year. Their show is packed with catchy tunes, hilarious antics and


(Above) Aldo Leopold weighs a woodcock. (Middle) Leopold rests by the shack, a repurposed chicken coop located near the Wisconsin River. (Below) Leopold sits on rock at Rio Gavilan in Mexico.Photos courtesy of the Aldo Leopold Foundation, aldoleopold.org

Costume Design by Amy Horst


big lessons in conservation. While watching the show, young audiences will be given paper journals that they can use to take notes and help the actors solve the show’s mystery. “In this show, children learn that they have a voice and that their opinion counts,” McLellan says. “They can make a difference.”

“Aldo Leopold and the Ghost of Sand County” focuses on the importance of conservation and the work of Leopold. Throughout his life, Leopold strove to improve the lands he walked on and advocated for nature. Today, the shack he spent weekends in with his children remains in Baraboo, Wis. “There’s a legacy of people from John Muir to Aldo Leopold to children today who can make a difference,” McLellan says. “This show is about children being empowered to speak up on behalf of nature.”

Kohl’s Wild Theater, a partnership between the Zoological Society of Milwaukee and Kohl’s Cares, travels to schools within a one-hour radius of the Zoo to perform shows free of charge.

To book a Kohl’s Wild Theater performance, visit wildtheater.org.

By Mary Jo Contino

Who is Aldo Leopold?Aldo Leopold was born Jan. 11, 1887, in Burlington, Iowa. His German father, Carl Leopold, took Aldo and his siblings on trips in the outdoors, showing them hunting and wood-crafting. Young Leopold soon became enthralled with nature and decided he would pursue forestry as a career. In the early 1900s, Leopold began working in New Mexico, where he developed the first management plan for the Grand Canyon and proposed the world’s first wilderness area, Gila Wilderness Area. In 1924, his work brought him to Madison, Wis., to work at the U.S. Forest Products Laboratory before teaching wildlife management at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Leopold had five children, all of whom pursued careers as naturalists. His book “A Sand County Almanac” was published shortly after he died from a heart attack in 1948. The book describes the natural environments in which Leopold lived and is considered one of the most significant environmental books of the 20th century. In 1982, Leopold’s children established the nonprofit Aldo Leopold Foundation in Bara-boo near the shack where Leopold and his children would spend weekends exploring the outdoors. The organization strives to continue his legacy through conservation and the land ethic. Today, Leopold’s last living child, Estella, is 91 and is a professor emeritus at the University of Washington.

Aldo Leopold inspecting red pine.Photo courtesy of the Aldo Leopold Foundation, aldoleopold.org

Costume Design by Amy Horst


Zoo Classes and CampsZoo Classes and Camps are presented by the Zoological Society of Milwaukee.

A Grandparent’s PerspectiveFor some grandparents, finding that perfect holiday gift, or gifts, for their grandchildren can be quite a challenge. Instead of toys and video games, why not sign them up for classes at the Zoo?

As Nora Dreske and her husband, Don, have found out, classes serve as a great time to bond with those closest to you. In fact, three of their grandchildren are already attending Zoo Classes. “Addison is 8 and has enjoyed the classes since she was 2. She really has learned respect for all animals and is interested in so many species,” Nora says. “Taylor is 3 and has loved every class she has attended. My other grandson, George Patrick, who is 6, loves the hands-on activities in the classroom. The rainforest and giraffe classes were two of his favorites.”

For infants through age 3, children attend Zoo Classes with an adult. But Zoo Classes for ages 4 to 5 are offered in two ways — “child only” or “with adult.” This allows children to attend class on their own if they are ready or attend classes with an adult if they prefer.

“My husband Don and I, daughter Brooke and her husband Dennis have enjoyed going to the classes with them,” Nora adds. “All of our grandchildren are excited when they have the opportunity to touch a guest animal in the classroom or watch the zookeepers feed the animals. The teachers are great and run the classes so efficiently. We all have learned so much.”

Zoo ClassesIt’s not too late to sign up for November or December Zoo Classes. Try the “Reindeer Adventures” class and discover more about reindeer with your 4- or 5-year-old, or sign up your 8- to 10-year-old for “Tongue Twisters,” where they can create an anteater with a 24-inch tongue! Registration for Spring Zoo Classes begins Nov. 3 at zoosociety.org/Spring.

“Zoo to You” School Programs Teachers, bring the Zoo to you! Educa-tion programs are available at the Zoo or as outreach to schools. Register now for October through May programs at zoosociety.org/SchoolPrograms.

We've been attending Zoo Classes

since our kids were old enough to go. The teachers are fantastic, and the ideas are so creative! The classes

are so well thought-out and are fun not only for

the kids, but the adults, too!

Jen G., Sussex

Don and Nora Dreske in 2012 with two of their grandchildren, George Patrick and Addison. Photo by Richard Brodzeller

zoosociety.org/EducationKent R. and son Benny, 7, make a forage box for the monkeys during “Family Zookeeper” class. Photo by Richard Brodzeller


Puttin’ on the RitzSponsored by Husch BlackwellJan. 26. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres at 6 p.m.; dinner at 7:30 p.m.; 3-round boxing bouts begin at 8:30 p.m. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino Expo Center, 1721 W. Canal St., MilwaukeeCost: $200 per person*, $2,000 for a corporate table sponsorship, or $3,000 for a corporate ringside

table sponsorship. Additional sponsorship opportunities available.

Register by visiting: zoosociety.org/Ritz. Call 414-258-2333 to request a paper invitation.

Any occasion that lets you dress to dazzle is a fun one. It’s even greater when such an occasion allows you to also make a difference for animals. On Jan. 26, dress your very best and head on over to the Zoologi-cal Society of Milwaukee’s 22nd annual Puttin’ on the Ritz fundraiser at Potawatomi Hotel & Casino. Upon arrival, enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres before feasting on a delectable gourmet dinner, participating in a live voice auction and watching young boxers in the ring courtesy of Future Olympian Boxing Asso-ciation. The boxing is sponsored by Master Z’s, and the boxing ring is sponsored by Bridgewood Advisors. Last year’s event raised $201,570 for the Zoological Society and its support of the Milwaukee County Zoo.

*Of the $200 per-person cost, $80 is tax-deductible.

Zumba® Fitness Party at the Zoo Feb. 25, 6-8 p.m.; event check-in at 5 p.m. Cost: $20 in advance, $25 at the door Open to ages 14 and up.Pre-register at zoosociety.org/Zumba.

For many people, exercising is a daily ritual for the purpose of personal health and stress relief. For others, exercise requires too much motivation and is left off the daily schedule. If the latter description fits you, then how about this for a little motivation: You can help animals simply by busting a move and breaking a sweat at the Zoological Society of Milwaukee’s Zumba® Fitness Party. For those unfamiliar with Zumba®, it’s an exercise routine that focuses on cardiovascular strength through simple choreography set to upbeat rhythms. This highly energetic event, led by Rachel Beimel and other certified instructors, takes place in the wide-open space of the Peck Welcome Center. While you’re there, you can purchase Zumba® fitness apparel and raffle tickets to win prizes. The funds raised will benefit the Zoological Society’s Sponsor an Animal program. Time to start movin’.

After dinner, guests can watch amateur boxers compete in the ring. Photo by Olga Kornienko

Zumba® Jammer Rachel Beimel, center, leads the other instructors and the crowd at last year’s event. Photo by Bob Wickland

VolunteeringFilled with Pride“What’s a duck’s favorite meal? Soup and quack-ers!”

This will likely be your first impression of Jim Redding: He’ll come up to you, a red badge proudly pinned on his shirt, and tell you a cheesy animal- or zoo-related joke. Some of them have obvious answers, but others will really make you think. Finally, after seconds of suspense, Redding will blurt out the answer with his head back, eyes closed and a good, hearty laugh. You can’t help but laugh, too.

Redding is a dedicated member of Zoo Pride, the Zoological Society of

Milwaukee’s volunteer auxiliary. In his 19th year as a volunteer with over 8,000 donated hours, Redding is loved by everyone at the Zoo. “Jim gets along with people of all ages,” says Lynn Wilding, volunteer services coordinator for the Society. “He makes it exciting and interesting to learn about animals and conservation.”

Redding admits that when he began volunteering with Zoo Pride in 1997, he knew nothing about animals. But as a veteran teacher of more than 30 years, he knew just what to do. “I learned everything by going to the 4- to 5-year-old, 7- to 8-year-old and 14-year-old education classes,” he says. Even though he’s a seasoned volunteer, having participated in almost every facet of Zoo Pride, Redding still finds himself in the education classes because he identifies with the children’s awe of nature — or maybe because he’s still a child at heart. “It’s such a treat to see the kids so excited about the animals.”

Redding calls the Zoo a “world of discovery and education.” He even recruited his wife, Nancy, for Zoo Pride because he loves it so much. Being at the Zoo so often has provided Redding with once-in-a-lifetime experiences. “You get to know the animals and you get a lot of laughs,” he says. “I’ve been there for those Kodak moments." One of those moments was when Redding was watching a cheetah get a root canal at the Animal Health Center. Another came when Redding was giving a be-hind-the-scenes tour for a class about hippos. The class was brought to the indoor exhibit where the kids saw Patti, the Zoo’s 46-year-old hippopotamus, getting fed. “She opened her mouth and you could see the kids’ astonishment,” he says. “Everything they saw in books and on TV was coming to life before their eyes.”

Not only does Redding charm the public with his charismatic personality, he’s pretty popular with the Society and Zoo staff. “He lights up my day,” says Becky Luft, membership programs coordinator for the Society. So when you’re at the Zoo and you see a man dressed all in khaki, a beaming smile from ear to ear with a peal of laughter coming from him and those around him, you can be sure it’s Jim Redding. Go ahead, walk up to him. Ask him a question or to hear a joke. You won’t be disappointed.

To become a volunteer like Redding, contact the Zoo Pride office at 414-258-5667.

By Brynn Herbert

Redding and wife, Nancy, also a Zoo Pride volunteer, at last year’s Platypus Circle dinner. Photo by Stacy Kaat

The Enos family of Rockton, Ill., feels the soft fur of a snow leopard, held by Redding. Photo by Richard Brodzeller



Jodi Gibson has lived all over the world — from Paris, France, to Kalamazoo, Mich. Sitting on her desk in her new Milwaukee office are tokens of her travels: photos, awards — even a coffee mug that reads, “Yes, there really is a Kalamazoo.” But Milwaukee is her hometown. After more than 20 years working and living around the world, Gibson is returning to her roots as the new president and CEO of the Zoological Society of Milwaukee.

Growing up in Milwaukee, Gibson was raised learning and living the family values her parents instilled in her, which included living a life of service. She graduated with a liberal arts degree from Ripon College in central Wisconsin in 1989 and began her career in corporate America soon after. While enjoying the intellectual challenge that corporate work brought, Gibson felt like something was missing. She began volunteering and adding humanitarian aspects to her career goals.

Gibson’s career, she explains, has been a “healthy split” between the nonprofit sector and corporate America. Before joining the Zoological Society, she worked at JCPenney as the divisional vice president and the Kellogg Company as the vice president of corporate social responsibility, overseeing global philanthropic and sustainability initiatives. Before that, she led fundraising activities for Feeding America, the country’s largest hunger-relief charity.

In the beginning of July, the Zoological Society welcomed Gibson as its new head. She will lead the staff in shaping the Society’s vision while generating resources to support its mission of conservation, education, and support of the Milwaukee County Zoo. Gibson is excited to be part of the Zoological Society of Milwaukee’s longstanding history of helping the Zoo and the Milwaukee community, a relationship that celebrated 100 years in 2010.

What drew her to the society? Everything, she says. ”The Milwaukee County Zoo is an iconic cultural and educational attraction in Milwaukee with a world-class animal collection,” Gibson says, “But our love of animals extends far beyond those at the Zoo. The Society has been doing conservation work in the Democratic Republic of Congo for decades.” She is also impressed by the people who support the Zoological Society. “The organization has attracted amazing, bright people willing to donate their time and resources to help it succeed,” she says. “The genuine commitment from the people of Milwaukee to support the Society and the Zoo is remarkable. I know we can achieve great things working together to advance our mission and support our community.”

When she’s not attending meetings around Milwaukee, brainstorming new fundraising tech-niques or reading up on conservation initiatives, Gibson likes to spend time with her family and friends. You can find her cheering on the Green Bay Packers during football season, no matter where she is in the world.

Looking forward, Gibson is thrilled about the potential for growth and the remarkable prospects in store for the Zoological Society of Milwaukee. “I’m excited to give back to the community where I was born and raised,” Gibson says. “I want to live my values and lead by example.”

By Mary Jo Contino

Jodi Gibson, Zoological Society of Milwaukee president and CEO. Photo provided by Jodi Gibson

35th Annual Platypus Circle DinnerInside of the Peck Welcome Center on Sept. 20, the Zoological Society of Milwaukee hosted the 35th Annual Platypus Circle Dinner as a thank-you to members who have done so much for the organization. The Platypus Circle is our most distinguished group of donors, and members’ support helps fulfill the Society’s mission of conservation, education and support of the Milwaukee County Zoo. Longtime members and newcomers enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and cocktails and had an opportunity to get up close with a lop-eared rabbit, an owl, and a leopard gecko during an opening reception.

Dr. John Scheels, a local dentist who donates time and money to help diagnose and treat animals at the Zoo, was the night’s featured speaker. The Society honored 25-year Platypus Circle members and awarded the Emu Egg Award, its highest award, to Robert Dohmen. He, along with the Dohmen Family Foundation, gave the Society a generous donation for the first phase of a hippo exhibit, which was completed in 2009. This year, he made another donation to allow the Dohmen Family Foundation Hippo Home to undergo its second phase of renovations. The changes will include an underwater viewing area to allow more guests to catch a glimpse of the Zoo’s hippos, Happy and Patti.


Development

Members Madonna Williams, left, and Mary Jo Mueller enjoy drinks and conversation. Photo by Stacy Kaat

Byron Foster and his wife Suzy are 25-year Platypus Circle members. Their daughter, Libby Vaeth, attended on Suzy’s behalf. Photo by Stacy Kaat

Dr. John Scheels provides insight into the work he does in animal dentistry. Photo by Stacy Kaat


Robert Dohmen was awarded the Emu Egg Award, the Society’s highest honor. Photo by Stacy Kaat

Ronald and Jacqueline Williams representing Materion, enjoying dinner. Photo by Stacy Kaat

James and Kaye Lynne Carpenter, 25-year Platypus Circle members. Photo by Stacy Kaat

John and Debbie Kissinger along with Gladys Harvey representing GRAEF, a 25-year Platypus Circle member. Photo by Stacy Kaat

Ray Wilson representing PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, a 25-year Platypus Circle member. Photo by Stacy Kaat

Insider TipsWelcoming Elk Back To WisconsinIn late June 2016, a beautiful and healthy female elk calf was born at the Milwaukee County Zoo. She became the fifth member of the Zoo’s elk herd, which includes one bull (male) and three cows (females). “People go to zoos to see exotic animals. The elk is exotic in a way,” says Dawn Fleuchaus, area supervisor of the Australia & North America areas at the Milwaukee County Zoo. “You don’t see them every day.”

That’s especially true since wild elk were missing entirely from Wisconsin until 1995. According to written and archeological records, more than 100 years ago, native elk were present in at least 50 of the state’s 72 counties. As the state was settled, unregulated hunting and habitat loss due to cultivation eventually led to the disappearance of elk from Wisconsin. But thanks to Wisconsin’s elk reintroduction program, approximately 230 elk are now present in two areas that are known as the state’s primary elk range.

The program started as a grassroots experiment in 1995, with 25 elk released in a 15,000 square-mile area called the Clam Lake Elk Range. Five years later, the experiment became a full-fledged reintroduction managed by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Wisconsin and the state of Kentucky reached an agreement in 2014 that allows Wisconsin from 2015 to 2020 to trap up to 50 elk each year in Kentucky with a maximum “take” of 150 animals overall. The program is entirely funded by conservationists and nonprofit groups from around the state, like Ho-Chunk Nation and the Jackson County Wildlife Fund.

“This just seems to be in our blood — conservation in Wisconsin,” says Kevin Wallenfang, deer and elk ecologist for the DNR and coordinator for the elk reintroduction program.

Why is introducing elk back into Wisconsin important? Wallenfang says that anyone who has heard an elk bugle, their call, would not ask such a question. “It’s life-changing. Even when you’re not seeing them, you’re hearing them,” says Wallenfang, who recently gave a presentation about the elk reintroduction program to staff and volunteers at the Milwaukee County Zoo. Their bugle resembles a steaming tea kettle and is used by bulls primarily during the mating season to attract females. Elk calls have played a spiritual role with Native Americans across the United States for thousands of years.

Reintroducing these loud, large-antlered elk back into Wisconsin is a long and com-plicated process that requires

DNR staff to pack their bags and head down to Kentucky for

weeks or even several months each winter. Living in cramped quarters and eating on $4 a day, these workers are fully commit-ted to making this program work. When they return to Wisconsin, they want to bring elk with them.

After the elk are captured in January and early February, the animals begin a

120-day quarantine in a reinforced out-door habitat in Kentucky, where they are

monitored daily and tested for a variety of diseases, as well as pregnancy. In late March, the crew drive the elk to Wisconsin where they begin their acclimation to the Wisconsin habitat and finish their quar-antine requirements. Right before their release, the elk are tested one last time for disease and are fitted with tracking collars so the team is able to monitor where they go and what they do. The

A female elk fawn was born at the Zoo on June 22, 2016. Photo by Bob Wickland


areas in which they are released, in the Flambeau River State Forest of Sawyer County and the Black River State Forest of Jackson County, are mixed forests of younger and mature trees — perfect for elk. Because of the highly populated, agriculture-heavy environment of southern Wisconsin, elk are not suitable here.

“If we can put these animals in healthy habitats, they’ll have better survival,” Wallenfang says.

Release, Wallenfang says, is a difficult process. Trail camera photos at the pen combined with radio telemetry locations showed elk slowly but surely exploring new territory in 2016. Some waited at the entrance to the quarantine area, even after the enclosure was sealed. Thanks to the tracking collars placed on each elk, the DNR is able to record information about their movements after release. In addition, the DNR has placed tracking collars on some wolves, a predator of the elk, so they can gain a better understanding of predator and prey species.

If an elk dies, the DNR and Wallenfang must find causes of the mortality. Death can be the result of anything from disease to a harsh Wisconsin winter. Large predators, vehicular accidents, importing costs, reduced access to land and crop damage all play a role in the success of the program.

The number of elk in the Clam Lake herd has grown from 25 in 1995 to 165 in 2016, with approximately 35 calves born last spring alone. The goal is to get the population to 1,400 in Clam Lake and 390 in Jackson County, where approximately 64 now live. The DNR’s manage-ment plans stress the importance of maintaining a suitable habitat for elk across these areas. When the number of elk in the Clam Lake herd reaches more than 200 healthy animals, a hunting season will be considered.

Economically, the elk reintroduction program in Wisconsin is estimated to bring in hundreds of thousands of dollars in revenue to the counties in which elk are found, whether it be from people spending money on a bed and breakfast in Clam Lake or stopping at a restaurant in Jackson County just so they can catch a glimpse of the magnificent elk. “Elk are part of our ecosystem,” Milwaukee County Zoo’s Fleuchaus says. “Any piece that goes missing throws off the balance of Wisconsin’s ecosystem.”

Wallenfang agrees. “They’re a great symbol of wilderness,” he says. “They’re native and they belong here.”

What’s the difference between Zoo elk and wild elk? Zoo elk differ greatly from wild elk. Fleuchaus says that the Milwaukee County Zoo trains elk

to fit in better with the Zoo atmosphere. Their health and reproduction are monitored, and they don’t have to worry about predators or starvation. Wallenfang says wild elk are just the opposite. They are responsible for finding their own food, and they are always susceptible to disease and predation. There’s a third type of elk in Wisconsin, farm elk, whose behaviors are dependent on their environment.

By Mary Jo Contino


(Above) In 2016, the approximate number of elk in Wisconsin has grown to 165. (Below) An estimated 35 elk calves were born in spring 2016.Photos courtesy of Kevin Wallenfang, Department of Natural Resources


Insider Tips continued

Pacu is a part of the familyPets are a special part of the family. For Linda and Peter Berglund, the unique bond between themselves and their beloved pacu fish — appropriately named Pacu — is one that’s been stretched by distance, but stitched closer together by Christmas cards the Berglunds send to the Milwaukee County Zoo every year.

Before the early 1990s, Linda and Peter of Shoreview, Minn. never thought of owning pacus, a tropical fish native to South America. Pacus are relatives of piranhas with sharp teeth, but they are far less aggressive. On rare occasions, pacus can be found in ponds and lakes in Wisconsin because when pet pacus outgrow their tanks, their owners illegally release them. Most pacus don’t survive, however, because of the frigid water temperatures during the winter.

Linda and Peter once owned a commercial photography studio in downtown Minneapolis and had a large fish tank. They moved the tank to their house where the whole family could enjoy it. Another professional photographer who was working with Peter at the time asked if they would be interested in a pacu. This wasn’t any normal pacu fish, however. He had gotten a taste of superstardom by appearing in a Prince music video (Linda and Peter don’t recall which video). “My husband and I weren’t big fans of Prince, but the fish was cool,” Linda says with a chuckle. “We weren’t sure what to feed him at first. We’d give him little chunks of hot dog and maraschino cherries.” Perhaps Pacu enjoyed the cherries more than the hot dog. Pacu start as carnivores, grouping with piranhas and eating whatever they’re eating. But as they grow older, they become vegetarians.

The Berglunds’ fish kept getting bigger and bigger. “Soon, all he could do was turn around by going vertically and turning himself around in the tank,” Linda says. “We had to do something.” Five years after they welcomed Pacu into their home, they decided to donate him instead of taking someone’s suggestion to serve him as dinner (the fish is a food source in South America). They got in touch with Craig Berg at the Milwaukee County Zoo, who happened to need a pacu even though the Zoo rarely brings in new pacus unless an older pacu passes away. Linda and Peter made two attempts to take Pacu to the Zoo with their two children in tow. During their first trip, they encountered a blizzard and went back home. Pacu was kept inside a large plastic garbage can in the back of the vehicle, but he ended up getting too cold. On their second trip, he was positioned in the middle seat to stay warm. “It wasn’t easy to carry this huge plastic garbage can with a pacu in it through the hotel,” Linda says. “He jumped out of the tank that morning and got a scratch.”

Although Pacu no longer lives in their home, the Berglunds stay in touch by sending him a Christmas card. Linda sends out 150 or more cards each year to family and friends with letters providing updates about the family’s life, so it’s natural for her to send one to Pacu, too. Berg, who is the Zoo’s aquatic and reptile curator, makes sure to read the card and letter to Pacu.

“I always read it to Pacu because it’s a special request,” Berg says. Although the Berglund family doesn’t make it to the Zoo as often as they’d like, they plan to visit again soon. In the meantime, Linda will continue to think of him as she writes his card. She hopes that when the letter is read, Pacu is listening, remember-ing that he’s forever part of the family.

By Colton Dunham

A pacu fish. Stock photo


By the Numbers1. BUGS! Larger Than LifeTristen G., 7, of West Allis, enjoys the BUGS! Larger Than Life special summer exhibit, sponsored by Sendik’s Food Markets. A total of 125,577 people visited the humungous insects from May 28 to Sept. 5. Photo by Bob Wickland

2. Snooze at the ZooJimeca H., left, of Milwaukee, and her son Dajrun, 6, set up their tent with Katie P., of West Allis, and her son Ethan, 4, at Snooze at the Zoo. The event, sponsored by Kellogg’s and Sentry Foods, was held Aug. 10-13 and drew 1,631 people. Photo by Bob Wickland

4. Senior CelebrationIlene and Russell Wahlig, of Brown Deer, dance their hearts out at Senior Celebration, sponsored by Wheaton Franciscan Senior Health. The event brought in 5,544 celebrators. Photo by Richard Taylor

3. A La CarteAlyssa Kliment and boyfriend Brent Landon, both of Manitowoc, feed each other Chinese food at Milwaukee Journal Sentinel a la Carte, presented by Meijer. The event, held Aug. 18-21, attracted 58,371 hungry attendees despite the rainy weather. Photo by Stacy Kaat

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5. Ride on the Wild SideHeather P., of Wauwatosa, and daughter Ava, 8, enjoy each other’s company at Ride on the Wild Side with their friend, a plush polar bear. The event, sponsored by Wheaton Franciscan (with media sponsors News/Talk 1130, FM106.1, 95.7 BIG FM, 97-3 NOW and V100.7), drew 696 riders and raised $29,202. Photo by Bob Wickland

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Zoological Society of Milwaukee Wild Things September-October 2016 XX

Details Inside

Nov. 3 Online registration begins for 2017 Spring

Zoo Classes, sponsored by Meijer

Nov. 5 Family Free Day, sponsored by

North Shore Bank; media sponsor: WITI FOX 6

Nov. 12 Zoo Pass members-only

holiday shopping trip to Chicago (pre-register)

Dec. 2-29 Fantastic Forest, sponsored by

Hawks Landscape*

Dec. 3 Family Free Day, sponsored by North Shore Bank;

media sponsor: WITI FOX 6

Dec. 3-4, 10-11, 17-18 Breakfast & Lunch with Santa, sponsored by

Racine Danish Kringles (pre-register)

Jan. 7 Family Free Day, sponsored by North Shore Bank;


Jan. 15 Samson Stomp & Romp, sponsored by

Amica Insurance (pre-register)

Jan. 26 Puttin’ on the Ritz at Potawatomi Hotel & Casino,

sponsored by Husch Blackwell (pre-register)

Feb. 2 Groundhog Day at the Zoo*

Feb. 3 Spring Zoo Classes, sponsored by Meijer, begin

Feb. 4Family Free Day, sponsored by North Shore Bank;


Feb. 8Online registration begins for Zoological Society Summer Camps*

Feb. 25Zumba® Fitness Party at the Zoo (pre-register)

March 4Family Free Day, sponsored by

North Shore Bank; media sponsor: WITI FOX 6

March 11-12 Behind the Scenes Weekend,

sponsored by Prairie Farms Dairy*

* Zoo Pass members get free Zoo admission with their Zoo Pass. Those with Zoo Pass Plus also get free parking for one vehicle per membership per day.

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Zoological Society of Milwaukee Members’ Newsletter ... · Reciprocal zoos and aquariums: We update our list of zoos ... mailing. If you’ve changed your address on your identification,