PUBLISHED FOR FRIENDS OF ROGER WILLIAMS PARK ZOO
OCTOBER 2025
VOLUME 28, ISSUE 4
Sept 26 - Nov 2 *
Welcome!
By Stacey Johnson
Executive Director, RWP Zoo and RI Zoological Society
As autumn arrives and the leaves begin their spectacular transformation,
I find myself reflecting on the equally remarkable changes happening at your Zoo. This season of renewal reminds me why I love working in a place where every day brings new discoveries – not just for our guests, but for our entire team.
Behind the scenes, our animal care team has celebrated exciting breeding milestones that support conservation programs and genetic diversity for endangered species.
For animals to reproduce successfully, four key elements are required—none accidental. First, you need the right animals: proper social groupings, compatible ages, and individuals well-matched for one another. Careful planning goes into selecting which species to breed, and often animals don’t reproduce simply because we’ve chosen siblings or pairs past reproductive age.
Second, habitats must be designed to encourage courtship, nesting, privacy, and separation when needed, much of which happens beyond what guests can see.
Third, timing is critical. Daily routines, reproductive cycles, daylight, temperature, and life stage all play a role.
Finally, staff expertise ties everything together.
Understanding species-specific needs, managing individual differences, adapting to the unexpected, and documenting knowledge all contribute to long-term success.
A perfect example is the recent birth of two red pandas at Roger Williams Park Zoo. This happy result of work dating back more than five years occurred on July 3 in our recently constructed, state-of-the-art habitat. Combining meticulous planning and design, thoughtful introduction of a young pair of pandas and watchful management of their care, we are
proud to add to the Species Survival Plan population of this endangered species.
In another recent instance, earlier this summer, the animal team recognized that our elephant Alice wasn’t feeling well. Managers, keepers and veterinary staff immediately jumped into “care” mode, staying with her 24 hours a day to observe and administer treatment until they were sure she was on the road to recovery. Thanks to the team’s sharp eyes and rapid response, today Alice is back in her yard, spending time with Kate and Ginny and saying “hi” to all guests.
As the leaves turn, so does budget season. Running a modern zoo is both challenging and inspiring. Over the past decade, Roger Williams Park Zoo has grown to an annual operating budget of nearly $19 million and a staff of more than 160 dedicated professionals. Like households and businesses everywhere, we’ve faced steep cost increases in recent years. Each budget cycle, our leadership works hard to provide top-quality animal care and guest experiences while keeping ticket prices affordable. With more than 80% of our budget funded by contributions and revenue from the Rhode Island Zoological Society, this is no small task.
The Zoo is a substantial organization with a big impact on Rhode Island’s economy, yet our mission remains singular: inspiring conservation action through meaningful wildlife experiences. Admission revenue helps, but it doesn’t cover the full cost. That’s where you come in. Your support makes real conservation possible, and we are deeply grateful. When you consider how to give back to the community, we hope you’ll keep your Zoo in mind.
If you have visited the zoo over the past few months, I am sure you saw the construction work taking place near the entrance. It is the new Education Center taking shape,
and we are excited at the prospect of a modern facility coming online. By this time next year, our education specialists will be moving in and preparing to share the wonders of nature with young and young at heart.
There is a lot going on here. Sometimes it’s difficult to keep up, even for those of us on site daily. What gets my heart pumping every day is knowing that each guest who walks through our gates has the potential to become a voice for wildlife. Whether it's a child who decides to start recycling after learning about
Cardis Free Day
The Zoo will be FREE on Thursday, December 27th, to celebrate National Visit the Zoo Day
The Roger Williams Park Zoo encourages every visitor to share the holiday spirit with the community by bringing non-perishable food items to benefit the Rhode Island Community Food Bank between 10 am and 3 pm.
Cardi’s Furniture & Mattresses is generously donating a truck and staff to help collect all food items and deliver them to the RI Food Bank.
how animals are impacted by plastic in the oceans, or an adult who chooses to support a conservation organization after their visit, these ripple effects extend far beyond our 40 acres. I am proud of the good work we do and honored to share it with you.
Thank you for being part of this incredible mission. Your Zoo is thriving because of your commitment to wildlife and wild places.
Sept 26 - Nov 2
Question: What is New England’s Favorite Fall Tradition?
Answer: Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular: Trivia 2nd Edition
Roger Williams Park Zoo’s Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular: Trivia – 2nd Edition, presented by Citizens, returns with a brand-new batch of brain busters with answers carved into the glow of the pumpkins along the trail. Pop culture, movie magic, sports stars and silly surprises; the trail is a playful path of puzzling fun for all ages.
We're incredibly grateful to our longtime sponsor, Citizens, for their generous support that made this year's spectacular possible. Their continued commitment allows us to keep this beloved tradition alive for New England and beyond, bringing joy and magic to families.
We're also deeply thankful to Cardi's Furniture & Mattresses for their ongoing support of the Zoo. Cardi's year-round commitment helps increase the visibility of the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, making it a memorable experience for all.
This event wouldn't be possible without the support of our incredible community. Thank you to our sponsors, staff, volunteers, carvers, artists, Zoo members, and everyone who helps make this spooktacular happen.
Proceeds from the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular support the Zoo’s ongoing animal care, education programs and conservation initiatives. Thank you for helping us save wildlife and wild places!
MEMBER ONLY PREVIEW NIGHT SPECIAL: Thursday, September 25th – ALL TICKETS ARE $14! VALID THIS ONE NIGHT ONLY! Don’t wait, this limited offer can sell out.
ADULT NIGHT: November 2nd is an adult-only evening giving you a chance to enjoy the trail at a relaxed pace, with no strollers in sight!
The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular presented by Citizens Returns!
Get ready for a New England’s favorite spooktacular fall tradition! The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular presented by Citizens is back at the Roger Williams Park Zoo for another season from September 26th – November 2nd.
Celebrating over 2 decades of partnership, Citizens continues to bring this beloved event to life, helping showcase thousands of creatively carved pumpkins and unique themed displays created by the incredible Passion for Pumpkins team.
This year’s theme brings back a fan favorite from last year: Trivia: Second Edition. As you walk the trail, you might even learn something new while enjoying the spectacular pumpkins and sights!
(Insider Hint: Look out for a skit asking which country was the first to use paper money!)
“The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular has grown year over year, bringing attendees from the
Ocean State and beyond,” says Keith Kelly, Rhode Island State President at Citizens. “This event is a great way for families to make lasting memories on the pumpkin trail while supporting the Zoo’s important education and conservation initiatives.”
Join us for Citizens cardholder VIP nights on Sunday October 5th and Tuesday, October 7th! Purchase a 6:00 PM time slot ticket and check in at the Citizens tent with your Citizens card for early trail access at 5:30 PM on these nights. Additionally, look out for Citizens representatives with some fun giveaways on Thursday, October 16th, 23rd, and 30th. Sensory-friendly nights, with no music or special effects, will take place on Tuesday, October 21st and Wednesday, October 22nd.
For over 2 decades, Citizens has supported the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular to help light up Rhode Island and celebrate the spirit of community in the state.
ROGER WILLIAMS PARK ZOO CELEBRATES Historic Birth of Twin Red Panda Kits
The Roger Williams Park Zoo is thrilled to announce an adorable and historic addition to its animal family: the birth of twin red panda kits. These little bundles of fluff were born on July 4, marking the first successful birth of red panda kits in the Zoo’s history.
This milestone is a tremendous win for global conservation efforts. Red pandas are classified as endangered, with fewer than 10,000 remaining in the wild. Every birth is a step toward ensuring a future for this remarkable species. Our red pandas are a part of a Species Survival Plan (SSP), which ensures the continued existence of at-risk wildlife by safeguarding their genetic diversity.
The kits, one male and one female, were born to Zan and Kendji, first-time parents. During their first weigh-in on July 12, each cub tipped the scale at just under 200 grams- less than half a pound each. For now, the kits are snuggled up with mom behind the scenes, where they will remain for several weeks to ensure they receive the best care and bonding time. Mom Zan is thriving in her new role, caring for her babies with incredible dedication.
While the public will need to wait a bit longer to meet the new arrivals in person, the Zoo promises plenty of adorable photo and video updates as the cubs continue to grow. Stay tuned to our social media channels and website for updates (and plenty of squeal-worthy photos) coming soon.
About Red Pandas
Red pandas, native to the Eastern Himalayas and Southwestern China, play a crucial role in their ecosystems. These animals aren’t just adorable- they’re essential. They are considered an indicator species, meaning their presence reflects the overall health of their ecosystem. They’re also an umbrella species, so, by safeguarding red pandas and their habitat, we also protect countless other species. Every effort to conserve red pandas helps preserve an entire web of life in the Eastern Himalayas.
Species Spotlight
AMERICAN BISON
Each year, on the first Saturday of November, we celebrate National Bison Day — a day to honor one of the most iconic animals in North America. The bison is more than just a big, shaggy animal roaming the plains. It’s a living symbol of resilience, strength, and national pride.
Bison are the largest land mammals in North America. Adult males (called bulls) can weigh up to 2,000 pounds, while females (cows) are slightly smaller, at around 1,000 pounds. Despite their size, bison are surprisingly agile. They can run up to 35 miles per hour and jump fences up to 6 feet tall!
With their massive heads, humped shoulders, and thick brown coats, bison are perfectly built for life on the open plains. In the winter, their dense fur and low body temperature help them survive extreme cold.
A Symbol of Survival
At one time, tens of millions of bison roamed North America.
But by the late 1800s, due to overhunting and habitat loss, their numbers had dropped to fewer than 1,000. Thanks to conservation efforts by Indigenous peoples, ranchers, and wildlife organizations, bison populations have recoveredthough they’re still considered near-threatened in the wild.
In 2016, the bison was officially named the National Mammal of the United States, standing proudly alongside the bald eagle as a symbol of American heritage.
Bison and Indigenous Culture
For many Native American tribes, the bison is a sacred animal. It has long provided food, clothing, shelter, and tools, and it plays a powerful role in spiritual and cultural traditions. Tribes across the U.S. are now leading efforts to bring bison back to tribal lands, not only to restore ecosystems, but to reconnect with centuries-old traditions.
Why Bison Matter
Bison are more than just a wildlife wonder, they’re an essential part of our shared history, ecology, and future. As we celebrate National Bison Day, let’s honor these magnificent animals and the people who have worked so hard to protect them.
So, next time you see a bison, take a moment to appreciate all it stands for: strength, survival, and the spirit of the wild. And don’t forget, you can come visit Nutmeg the bison right here at the Zoo.
Fun Facts about Bison
• Bison calves are born with reddish fur and are nicknamed “red dogs.”
• Bison use their heads like snowplows to dig through snow in search of grass.
• Bison wallow in dirt or mud to scratch themselves, cool down, and get rid of pesky insects.
• They communicate with grunts, snorts, and even body language — flicking their tails is one way to signal danger!
Highlights from the 12th annual brew at the zoo
saturday, August 23
Celebrating World Wildlife Conservation Day:
Did you know that December 4th is World Wildlife Conservation Day? It's a day dedicated to raising awareness about the urgent need to protect endangered species and their habitats. It's also a powerful reminder of the importance of biodiversity and the critical role wildlife plays in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
When you visit the Zoo, you see so many incredible animals—from playful giant otters to fascinating poison frogs. But what you might not see is the dedicated, behind-thescenes work that extends far beyond our habitats. We're part of a powerful, collaborative effort called the Saving Animals From Extinction (SAFE) program.
A Coordinated Effort to Save Species
Managed by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), SAFE unites all 229 accredited zoos and aquariums with a single goal: to save species on the brink. AZA member institutions like ours work together alongside partners to help species at risk of extinction.
Your Zoo is a proud participant in ten different SAFE programs, each dedicated to a species at risk:
• SAFE American Burying Beetle
• SAFE Andean Highland Flamingo
• SAFE Cheetah
• SAFE Giraffe
• SAFE Jaguar
• SAFE North American Monarch
• SAFE North American Freshwater Turtle
• SAFE North American Songbird
• SAFE Red Wolf
• SAFE Tree Kangaroo of Papua New Guinea
Last year alone, the SAFE program spent an incredible $356.7 million on field conservation, and we're proud to contribute to that global effort. Our commitment extends beyond these specific programs, as we also provide funding and support to numerous other initiatives both in our community and around the world, from the Rhode Island Natural History Survey to the Snow Leopard Trust and the Red Panda Network.
By visiting the Zoo, becoming a member, or volunteering your time, you are supporting conservation efforts. This
is a testament to the fact that zoos are more than just a fun day out—they are hubs of a global mission. You’re not just celebrating World Wildlife Conservation Day on December 4th, you're helping us make a difference for wildlife all year long.
Together, we can be the reason these incredible animals have a future. And it all starts here, at your local Zoo.
Conservation Heroes: Spotted Lantern Fly
This summer Conservation Heroes campers learned about how they can advocate for conservation efforts in their community! Campers were interested in the negative impact Spotted Lanternfly's are having on our local trees and plants. Inspired to spark change, they worked together to create fliers educating others on the invasive species and the steps we can take to reduce lanternfly populations.
SEPTEMBER
• ZOO HOURS: Daily from 9am to 4pm
• CAROUSEL HOURS: Daily from 12pm to 4pm
Upcoming Events at the Zoo & Carousel
• 5th and 7th - Citizens Cardholder VIP Access Nights at Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular
• 21st and 22nd - Jack-OLantern Spectacular Sensory Nights
DECEMBER
• ZOO HOURS: Thursday through Monday 10am to 4pm except for holidays and Providence school vacation days.
• 25th - Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular Members Only Event (Discount for Members)
• 26th - Final Food Truck Friday
• 26th - Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular Opening Night
• 28th - Breakfast with the Elephants
• 29th - Family Fun Night at Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular
OCTOBER
• ZOO HOURS: Through Columbus Day –Daily 9am to 4pm
• 14th - Zoo hours will be Thursday through Monday 10am to 4pm except for holidays and School Vacation Days
• Goat Yard Hours - Weekdays - 10:00am to 1:30pm/ Weekends 10am to 2:30pm
• CAROUSEL HOURS: Daily from 12pm to 4pm
• 1st - Family Fun Night at Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular
• 4th - Free Saturday
• 18th - Spooky Zoo (Rain date 19th)
• 25th - Spooky Zoo (Rain date 26th)
NOVEMBER
• ZOO HOURS: Thursday through Monday 10am to 4pm except for holidays and Providence school vacation days.
• Goat Yard closes Nov 1st
• CAROUSEL HOURS: Weekends 12pm to 4pm
• 1st - Free Saturday
• 2nd - Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular Final Day (Sunday)
• 11th - Veteran’s Day Food Truck Daytime Event at the Zoo
• 15th - Zoo Career Workshop
• 16th - Zoo Career Workshop
• 23rd - Breakfast with the Rainforest Residents
• 28th - Holiday Lights Spectacular Opening Night (Runs through Jan 2nd)
• CAROUSEL HOURS: Weekends 12pm to 4pm
• 1st to 31st - Holiday Lights Spectacular (Closed 12/24 and 12/25, runs through 1/2)
• 4th - Holiday Lights Spectacular – Visit with Santa 5pm to 7pm
• 6th - Free Saturday
• 11th - Holiday Lights Spectacular – Visit with Santa 5pm to 7pm
• 18th - Holiday Lights Spectacular – Visit with Santa 5pm to 7pm
• 24th - Zoo Closed Christmas Eve
• 25th - Zoo Closed Christmas Day
• 27th - Cardis Food Drive/ Free Zoo Day
Experience the magic of the holiday season and immerse yourself in a winter wonderland of over 3.5 million twinkling lights at this year’s spectacular light display! From November 28th to January 4th, explore the Zoo’s 40 acres of illuminated pathways featuring dazzling displays that will leave you in awe.
Highlights include:
• Festive Decorations: Larger-than-life light sculptures and shimmering displays create a magical atmosphere.
• Winter Treats: Enjoy hot cocoa, adult beverages, and delicious s’mores as you stroll through the Zoo.
Kids’ Corner Kids’ Corner coloring page
DIY Fall Leaves Wreath Craft
Materials Needed:
• Fresh Fall leaves in various colors
• Paper plate
• White school glue
• Scissors
• Fall ribbon
1. Begin this Autumn craft by collecting about twenty colorful leaves from outside. Try to get nice fresh ones that have just fallen, they will be easier to glue on.
2. Cut the middle out from a paper plate. Fold the plate in half to get the cut started in the middle, then cut along the rim to make about a 2-inch paper plate border (young kids may need help with this part).
3. Continue building the wreath by gluing each leaf to the paper plate. Slightly overlap each leaf. For this leaf craft, have each leaf point in the same direction, with the stems pointing inward.
4. Next, clip off the stems from each leaf using scissor. Then, tie a pretty Fall ribbon in a bow, then glue the bow on to the wreath.
Roger Williams Park Zoo is supported and managed by the Rhode Island Zoological Society and is owned by the City of Providence
Editorial
Roger Williams Park Zoo Department of Marketing and Public Relations
Corrie Ignagni
Vicki Scharfberg
Maxine Colvin
Roger Williams Park Zoo SPECIAL THANKS TO
Designer Sara Beatrice
Tandem Designworks
Photo Credits
WILD is an online publication of the Rhode Island Zoological Society, Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence, Rhode Island 02907-3659
For membership information call (401) 785-3510 x375 or visit rwpzoo.org.
2025 RHODE ISLAND ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Officers
Patrick T. LeBeau, CFP,® Chair
Sandra L. Coletta, Vice Chair
Margaret Ferguson, Secretary
Maribeth Q. Williamson, Treasurer
Board of Trustees
Nancy Allen
Priya Banerjee, MD
Martha Bower
Douglas Caniglia
Claire Carrabba, Esq
Cheryl Cohen
Sarah Denby
Samir Dhamija
Cindy Erickson
Pamela W. Heffernan
John Igliozzi, Esq
Howard Merten, Esq
Damaris Messina
John H. Mullen
Jack Murray
Steven M. Parente
Karen Silva EdD, CHE
Dameian Slocum, Ed.D.
Ex-Officio
Stacey Johnson
Executive Director
Rhode Island Zoological Society/ Roger Williams Park Zoo
Wendy Nilsson
Superintendent of Parks
Providence Parks Department
Chair Emerita
Sophie F. Danforth*
Trustees
Emeriti
Margaret E. Curran, Esq.
Thomas P. Dimeo*
Jocelin Hamblett
James S. Harper III, VMD*
Bradford B. Kopp
Arthur D. Little
Liz Rollins Mauran
Nancy G.R. Moger
Richard Nadeau
Jane S. Nelson
John J. Palumbo
Cate M. Roberts
Philip A. Segal, Jr.
Robert F. Stoico*
*deceased
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