WILD Magazine Summer 2026

FOR

JULY 2026

VOLUME 29, ISSUE 3

Welcome!

By Stacey Johnson

Executive Director, RWP Zoo and RI Zoological Society

The third week of July is National Zookeeper Week, a time to recognize the dedicated professionals who care for the animals at Roger Williams Park Zoo every day. Our animal care team does far more than prepare diets and maintain habitats. They monitor animal health, provide environmental enrichment, conduct training, educate guests and help ensure the highest standards of animal wellbeing.

So, do you want to be a zookeeper? It's never too early to start learning.

If you or your child are exploring career options, being a zookeeper may sound exciting. The profession can be both rewarding and challenging. Zookeepers are often described as dedicated to animals, conservation and the environment.

What does a career as a zookeeper entail?

Let's find out.

For elementary school students interested in working with animals, there are many fun ways to learn more about the profession:

•Visit a local zoo, aquarium or natural history museum.

•Watch animal care professionals at work and ask questions about their jobs.

•Read books and magazines, watch nature programs and explore websites about wildlife and nature.

•Join a science club, participate in scouting activities or attend educational programs at a zoo or aquarium.

•Observe wildlife in your backyard, on a hike or in a park. Record what you see and research questions that arise from your observations.

High school students can take additional steps toward a career in animal care:

•Continue reading and learning about wildlife, conservation and animal biology.

•Meet with a guidance counselor to identify classes that will prepare you for college programs related to animals and the environment.

•Volunteer or work at an animal shelter, veterinary hospital, horse stable, zoo or aquarium to gain hands-on experience and a realistic understanding of the profession.

If becoming a zookeeper remains a goal in college:

•Take courses in biology, animal science, veterinary medicine, environmental studies and related life sciences. Many colleges now offer programs specifically designed for zoo careers.

•Pursue internships or part-time jobs at veterinary hospitals, wildlife rehabilitation centers, zoos or aquariums.

•Gain as much practical experience as possible. Zookeeper positions are competitive, and most candidates need significant hands-on experience working with animals before securing a full-time role.

While becoming a zookeeper is often the first career people think of at a zoo, it is just one of many opportunities. Roger Williams Park Zoo also relies on educators, veterinarians, hospitality professionals, mechanics, technicians, construction experts, administrators, graphic designers,  fundraisers, communications specialists, horticulturists, and many others.

As we celebrate National Zookeeper Week, we also recognize the entire Roger Williams Park Zoo team whose talents and dedication help make the Zoo a special place every day.

Special Events at the Zoo This Summer

Closes August 9th

Don’t miss this chance to have a big adventure as a tiny explorer in A Bug’s World. See the outdoors like an insect does, where blades of grass tower overhead, ants are the size of dogs, and butterflies feel larger than life.

A Bug’s World experience is not included with Zoo admission, a separate ticket is required.

A Bug’s World Sensory Morning - July 5th

A special sensory-friendly morning an hour before the bug’s trail opens to the public. Stop by and visit our sponsor ABA Centers of Rhode Island at their table!

A Bugs World Family Night - August 8th

Experience the Zoo and magic of A Bug’s World after hours for nearly half the price of daytime admission.

Party with Pride (21+ only)

Saturday, July 11th

Embrace your wild side and Party with Pride, an unforgettable evening celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community! This 21+ event invites queer adults and their allies to experience the Zoo after hours. Get ready for a fantastic lineup of entertainment and drag performances! Discover fascinating “Nature is Queer” animal chats, alongside pride-themed animal enrichment activities. Enjoy Zoo-themed cocktails at pop-up cash bars scattered throughout the Zoo.

July 4th -

$4 Admission!

To celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, tickets are priced at $4 for July 4th only (ticket is not valid any other day).

Brew at the Zoo (21+ only)

August 29th

Tap into your wild side at Brew at the Zoo on Saturday, August 29, an adult-only evening event featuring hundreds of craft beers, hard seltzers, ready-to-drink cocktails, and new this year, it will also offer a selection of wine. Sample beverages from dozens of local, regional, and national breweries, wineries, and brands while enjoying live music, animal encounters, and more. As Rhode Island’s largest outdoor beer festival, Brew at the Zoo offers a one-of-akind night of drinks, wildlife, and entertainment.

ART with a Purpose:

Celebrating the Winners of the 9th Annual Endangered Species Youth Art Contest

We are absolutely thrilled to announce the winners of our 9th Annual Endangered Species Youth Art Contest!

Young artists from across the Northeast blew us away with over 400 stunning submissions, showcasing incredible creativity to raise awareness for the world's most threatened and endangered wildlife.

From vibrant mountainous cloud forests with endangered red pandas to stunning portraits of apex predators on the brink of extinction, these submissions did more than just showcase artistic skill, they told powerful stories.

Coinciding with Endangered Species Day on May 15, these inspiring masterpieces don't just celebrate the next generation of conservation advocates, they also ignite a powerful reminder of why we must protect these creatures and their wild homes.

The winning artwork is officially on display at the Zoo’s Big Backyard exhibit. We highly encourage everyone to walk through and witness these works of art firsthand.

9-12 Grade Winner: Izzy McCarthy (mountain bongo)

2026 JUDGES’ CHOICE WINNER:

We want to extend a massive, heartfelt thank you to our co-partner, Providence Jerry's Artarama, for their continuous support and commitment to nurturing young artists.

Grade 9-12 Honorable Mention: Catalina Warner (blue-billed curassow)

6-8 Grade

Grade 6-8 Honorable Mention: Andrea Zhang (cerulean warbler) – tied

3-5

Grade 6-8 Honorable Mention: Emma Yoonji Zheng (leopard) – tied

Mention:

Grade

Honorable Mention:

Explore, Discover & Connect Summer in Roger Williams Park:

Summer at Roger Williams Park has something for all ages! The Gateway Center, Museum of Natural History & Planetarium, and Botanical Center invite visitors of all ages to experience a season filled with nature, science, culture, and community.

At the Gateway Center, families can enjoy a variety of free community events through the Summer Event Series, including Zoomobile animal encounters, the South Providence Gallery Tour, The Closet Comeback Workshop, and the Broad Street Food Truck Matinee. The Gateway also hosts the Fitness in the Parks program, arts activities, cultural workshops, and the new Summer Camp Pop-Up Series, which introduces children to the many attractions of Roger Williams Park through hands-on learning and outdoor exploration.

The Botanical Center offers a summer of discovery inside New England's largest public indoor botanical garden. Visitors can participate in Greenhouse Yoga, Tai Chi, Animal Encounters, Storytime with Chris, and Wee-One Wednesdays for young children. Garden enthusiasts can enjoy the Books & Banter Book Club, Soil Testing Clinics, and a special Bonsai Workshop, while live entertainment returns with Garden Jazz performances and the family-favorite Toe Jam Puppet Band Kids Concert.

At the Museum of Natural History & Planetarium, visitors can explore exhibits on wildlife, geology, and astronomy while enjoying family-friendly activities and daily planetarium shows. This summer, discover Rhode Island’s rich natural history and night skies through Summer Shellabration, a celebration inspired by America’s upcoming 250th anniversary. Visitors can also enjoy Outdoor Adventures in Roger Williams Park, offering opportunities to explore nature. Interested in local history? Visit the Betsey Williams Cottage during free open houses on Fridays from 10 am - 3 pm.

Whether you're discovering tropical plants, meeting live animals, exploring local history, enjoying live music, or participating in family-friendly activities, Roger Williams Park offers countless opportunities to learn, connect, and make lasting memories all summer long. Join us and experience everything the Park has to offer.

More information at providenceri.gov/parks/rwp-gateway/

Rhode Island’s home for local news and storytelling.

Species Spotlight

Capybara

Fun Fact:

Did you know the capybara is the largest living rodent on Earth?

A fully grown capybara can weigh up to 140 pounds.

You’ve met our newest resident, Carsie the capybara! Now, let’s get to know more about this interesting rodent species.

Semi-Aquatic Adaptations

Native to the lush wetlands, marshes, and dense forests of Central and South America, capybaras have some incredible adaptations that make them built for a semi-aquatic life. This means they split their time living on land and swimming in the water. Capybaras have partially webbed feet that help them power through rivers and swamps. Their eyes, ears and nostrils are positioned high on their heads. This allows capybaras to swim through the water, with most of their bodies safely submerged, while they continue to breathe and watch for predators.

Unique Diet

To keep up with front teeth that never stop growing, capybaras constantly munch on tough grasses and river plants to wear them down. They also have a unique way of getting the most out of their food: coprophagy, the practice of eating their own morning droppings. Because fibrous plants are so difficult to break down, passing them through their digestive system a second time allows capybaras to absorb extra protein and beneficial microbes they missed the first time around.

Conservation

Currently, capybaras are listed as a species of Least Concern on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, indicating that their global population is stable. However, they still face threats of water pollution, habitat loss from deforestation and over-hunting from humans.

Social Structure

In the wild, capybaras are social animals that form close-knit herds of 10 –40 individuals. While they don’t mind being alone, they often prefer being in social groups. Capybaras use a system of vocalizations, including barks, whistles and grunts to communicate, alert the herd and keep track of their pups. Because they are famously “chill” animals, they also get along well with other species like birds, turtles and small monkeys.

Carsie, our capybara, is currently living alone due to a previous experience where he was attacked and injured by other capybaras and is now fearful of them. We are currently exploring companionship options for him. Visit Carsie in the Faces of the Rainforest building and see some of his incredible adaptations in action!

Donor Highlight: Meg Ferguson

There is no request too unique for Meg Ferguson. From selecting bespoke spirits featured at Whisky & More for Wildlife to providing tasty bovine treats for our cheetahs, Meg always delivers exactly what the Zoo needs.

For more than three decades, Meg’s dedication to the Zoo has been demonstrated in countless ways. As owner of the local Broadwall Farm, Meg shares her expertise in cattle care and recently provided feedback for our new Bison yard and shade structure. Meg recommended reinforced fencing and barn walls – bison calves can be tough on habitat infrastructure! – and helped us plan for the arrival of three new bison into our herd.

A cat lover, Meg was instrumental in opening the Zoo’s new Catio. Thanks to her support, four new feline friends were welcomed to the Zoo, serving as ambassadors of safe outdoor time for domestic cats. In recognition of her generosity, one of our first residents was named in her honor: Ferguson, lovingly called Fergie.

Meg’s passion extends beyond animal care to building meaningful community connections. Inspired by her friendship with whisky sommelier Irene Tan, she helped bring Whisky & More for Wildlife to the Zoo. What began as an intimate gathering has grown into an annual tradition, uniting animal lovers and spirits enthusiasts alike in support of conservation.

Year after year, Meg has guided the event’s growth while keeping its purpose at heart. Proceeds have supported initiatives from habitat enhancements for Nutmeg the bison, to the care of servals Velma and Zephyr, and the extension of the American Burying Beetle repopulation program. Her leadership continues to ensure the event raises vital funds that directly benefit our animals and mission.

The Zoo is grateful for Meg’s leadership as Secretary of the Board of Trustees, and for the knowledge, generosity, and dedication she brings to our community. Her thoughtful guidance and hands-on involvement have shaped the spaces our animals call home and enriched the experiences that connect our visitors to our mission. Meg’s commitment ensures that the Zoo’s mission and animals are always at the forefront, today and for years to come.

NATIONAL ZOOKEEPER WEEK

July 19 – July 25

During National Zookeeper Week, we pause to celebrate the heartbeat of our zoo: the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly behind the scenes and on the front lines every single day.

Zookeepers perform the vital, hands-on work that keeps wildlife conservation alive. They are more than caretakers; they are scientists, conservationists, and advocates. From noticing the tiniest shifts in an animal's behavior to designing clever enrichment that keeps minds sharp, Zookeepers do this all while inspiring the next generation of animal lovers. Their dedication ensures that the animals in our care thrive, beautifully bridging the gap between global preservation efforts and our local community.

To our incredible zookeepers: thank you for the early mornings, the late nights, and the unwavering devotion you give to every creature under your care. From caring for the smallest reptiles to the largest mammals, we see your hard work, we honor your endless passion, and we appreciate you more than words can express!

for Local Wildlife Spreading Our Wings

This spring, the Zoo successfully completed its series of Spread Your Wings events, aimed at raising awareness about the vital importance of planting native species for our local wildlife. Taking place at both the Zoo and Carousel Village, these events connected the community with a direct conservation action to help spread native plants across the state - because together, we can make a bigger impact!

Across all events, 88 participants took the pledge to become Habitat Heroes, committing not only to planting native but also to reducing pesticide use and spreading awareness about supporting local wildlife. As a thank you and to get them started on their journey, each pledgee received a free native plant.

These new Habitat Heroes join a national network tracking the collective impact of native planting efforts. Together, the program has distributed more than 800 native plants across the United States this year!

When we talk about the animals in our care it is easy for us to assign personality traits to those animals. Often these can influence what we believe the animals are capable of.

“Nervous, stubborn, smooth brained, lazy, too young, too old, pushy, bossy", are all labels that have been assigned to animals when we have talked about what they are capable of (or not) or excusing why a training session didn’t go as planned or wasn’t attempted at all.

It is not uncommon for people to look at hoofstock (like takin, bison, farm animals etc.) and presume they are not smart, can’t learn or are unmotivated. On top of that, takin have a reputation for being aggressive, short fused, temperamental and too dangerous to work with.

Every label we assign and every excuse we make for the animals is settling for mediocrity. The truth is that animals will live up to, or down to our expectations. We want our animals to THRIVE, not simply survive.

Ellie takin and her trainer, Bri are an inspiring example to consider. Together they demonstrated just what can be accomplished when you set the expectation high, let behavior speak for itself and always strive to achieve more!

Takin Talkin’

Takin Talkin’

After establishing foundational behaviors such as her bridge, reinforcement, target, and station, Bri started to introduce a second target for Ellie to press her shoulder onto. As Ellie became proficient, the target was phased out and a capped needle and syringe were introduced. This spring Bri was able to collaborate with the vet department for Ellie’s annual exam and hoof trim. Ellie leaned into the needle and received an anesthetic injection in her shoulder. Because of this we avoided Ellie getting potentially excited (making it harder for the medications to take effect), we could confirm 100% of the medication was received, and she had the smoothest induction and recovery we have ever achieved with her. Next is a scale behavior and a foot curl for hoof care!

It is never too late for an animal to learn something new –Ellie was 9 years old when she learned the injection behavior!

Pamela W. He ernan Co-Chair

Judy Lockard

Beth Mattera

Damaris Messina

John H. Mullen

Jack Murray

Ron Patalano

Zachary Remson

Sara Slahetka

Tempie Thompson

Lauren Ustaszewski

Eric Weiner

unique educational experience where guests can improve their significantly to the conservation of our earth’s animals, plants audience to act as responsible environmental stewards.

Island Zoological Society and is owned by the City of Providence.

Society/Roger Williams Park Zoo Providence, RI 02907 rwpzoo.org

Dominic

Saturday, June 29, 2024

Nancy J. Allen

Anchor Forensic Pathology

Bally’s Twin River Lincoln

Bock Foundation

Jessica & Peter Chaffee

Eastern Ice

Ferestien Feed & Farm Supply, Inc.

Meg Ferguson

General Environmental Services

Delta Dental of Rhode Island The Glocker Family Miles River Direct

Tortoise Troop

Jim & Lexy Hager

Harvard Pilgrim Health Care

Pam & Bill Heffernan

KPMG LLP

Lahlaf Geotechnical Consulting, Inc.

Patrick T. LeBeau

Liberty Cedar, Inc.

Mark & Chris

The Nedder Family

North-Eastern Tree Service, Inc.

Pier Fish Company

Ann Potter

Karen & Stephen Prest

The Raytas

Paige Robinson & Chris Buttermelon

Roxanne Beretta - RE/MAX

SDS Disposal, Inc.

Ted & Sue Seager

Althea & Bailey Shaheen

Signature Printing

Elizabeth Taylor-Samos

Zachary & Abigail Trayers

Michelle Viveiros & Brian Chaignot

Thomas Watson & Carlo Oddo

David & Jill Wolff

Woodlawn Gardens

Thank you for supporting Zoobilee - Party With A Purpose!

A special thank you to our sponsors, volunteers, and guests for making the 34th annual Zoobilee Party With a Purpose on June 27th such a success – over $250,000 was raised to support the Zoo’s unique education and conservation efforts!

Summer Crossword Puzzle

Kids’ Corner Kids’ Corner summer crossword puzzle

Summer Crossword Puzzle

Buzzing, biting summer pest near standing water

Sideways-walking beach dweller with pinchers

Sideways-walking beach dweller with pinchers

Sideways-walking

The daily disappearance of the sun below the horizon in the evening

The daily disappearance of the sun below the horizon in the

The daily disappearance of the sun below the horizon in the evening

Tiny upright-swimming fish where males carry the eggs

A

A popular summer day-trip destination where you can feed a goat or see a giraffe

Insect

A popular summer day-trip destination where you can feed a goat or see a giraffe

Insect famous for its loud buzzing drone in August

Insect famous for its loud buzzing drone in August

Marine reptile that lays eggs on summer beaches

Marine reptile that lays eggs on summer beaches

Tiny upright-swimming fish where males carry the eggs

Tiny upright-swimming fish where males carry the eggs

A vast body of saltwater that covers over 70% of the Earth's surface

A vast body of saltwater that covers over 70% of the Earth's surface

Ocean movement that rolls in and out

Ocean movement that rolls in and out

Ocean movement that rolls in and out

The perfect place to build a castle, collect seashells, and get sand in your shoes

The perfect place to build a castle, collect seashells, and get sand in your shoes

The perfect place to build a castle, collect seashells, and get sand in your shoes

Fluffy

Fluffy

Fluffy white collections of water droplets floating in the sky

Playful marine mammal that leaps near boats

Ocean

Ocean predator with a famous summer television week

Ocean predator with a famous summer television week

Loud

Loud beach bird known for stealing picnic snacks

Insect that lights up warm summer nights

Upcoming Events at the Zoo & Carousel

JULY

• ZOO HOURS: Daily from 9 am to 4 pm

• CAROUSEL HOURS: Daily 11 am to 6 pm

• CONNECTION CORNER: Daily 10am to 3:30pm

• 4: Free Saturday for Providence Residents

• 4: $4 admission for 4th of July

• 5: Bug’s Sensory Friendly Morning sponsored by ABA Centers 8 am – 9 am

• 11: Party with Pride

• 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Food Truck Fridays at Carousel Village

AUGUST

• ZOO HOURS: Daily from 9 am to 4 pm

• CAROUSEL HOURS: Daily 11 am to 6 pm

• CONNECTION CORNER: Daily 10am to 3:30pm

• 1: Free Saturday for Providence Residents

• 1: Breakfast with the Elephants

• 8: A Bug’s World Family Night

• 9: Final day of A Bug’s World

• 29: Brew at the Zoo

• 7, 14, 21, 28: Food Truck Fridays at Carousel Village

SEPTEMBER

• ZOO HOURS: Daily from 9 am to 4 pm

• CAROUSEL HOURS: Daily 11 am to 6 pm

• CONNECTION CORNER: Daily 10am to 3:30pm

• 5: Free Saturday for Providence Residents and Community Tabling

• 6: Breakfast with the Zebras, Watusi, and Wildebeest

• 11 & 12, 18 & 19, 25 & 26: Snore and Roar Overnights

• 27: Breakfast with the Elephants

• 4, 11, 18, 25: Food Truck Fridays (25 is final Food Truck Friday)

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

Designer Sara Beatrice Tandem Designworks

Photo Credits

Roger Williams Park Zoo

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.

2026 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 H. Bower, JD, LtCol (Ret), USAF

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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