Fall 2025 stlzoo magazine

Michael Macek, Director, Saint Louis Zoo; and Sabarras George, Director, Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park

After weeks of scorching heat, I think we’re all ready for comfortable jacket weather. So bring on pumpkins, crunchy leaves and Halloween decorations — we’re ready for fall! It’s also our season for events: Zootoberfest, Boo at the Zoo presented by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon and Wild Lights presented by Commerce Bank. These are fun opportunities to enjoy holiday festivities with a unique Zoo flair.

We’re feeling pumped for all that’s in store in the near future. In addition to our holiday events, we’re getting ready to open Henry A. Jubel Foundation Destination Discovery in 2026! While it’s still a construction site, things are moving fast. Some Destination Discovery animals are already here, and new species are coming soon (learn more on page 8). We’re planning our 2026-2027 academic year of Second Nature Zoo Preschool (see page 28), which will reside in Destination Discovery. And, holiday gift memberships from the Zoo will have some extra sparkle for loved ones because their gift will include Destination Discovery admission when it opens!

Soon following Destination Discovery will be Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park in 2027. Over the last year, the park has boomed with new animals and births of endangered species. In about 12 months, WildCare Park went from fewer than 20 animal residents to more than 65 from 10 different species today, including 16 births at the park. That’s just the beginning. By the time the park opens to the public, it will be home to more than 250 adult animals. Get the latest “wild news” on page 4.

All this positive energy propelling us toward the future is something we’ve needed in the aftermath of the May 16 tornado. That storm hit our Zoo hard, and it hit members of our community even harder. After the shock of realizing an EF-3 tornado tore through St. Louis, resilience kicked in, and Zoo team members powered through and allowed our gates to reopen just days after the storm. Flip to page 14 to read about some of the most tiring yet collaborative 72 hours in the Zoo’s history.

There’s never a good time for a tornado to hit your campus. It’s even more overwhelming when it’s a month away from your accreditation inspection. Every five years, we go through an inspection process to retain accreditation through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. These accredited zoos are the best of the best, and we’re dedicated to retaining this accreditation as a commitment to our animals, guests and community. We’re delighted that our hard work paid off — both the Saint Louis Zoo and Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park got glowing reviews from inspectors and have maintained accreditation! See page 18 for more about this “gold star” and the steps we take to ensure we’re a first-class organization.

As always, thank you for supporting us with your membership. Enjoy your holiday season, and we hope to see you soon for a visit!

COMMISSION OF THE ST. LOUIS ZOOLOGICAL PARK SUBDISTRICT

Chairman Lawrence E. Thomas

Vice Chair

Winthrop B. Reed III

Treasurer

Will R. Ross, MD, MPH

Commissioners

Vincent Bennett

Karl A. Grice

Jerald L. Kent

Robert F. O’Loughlin

Neal F. Perryman

Dana Tucker Redwing

Michael W. Riney

Dr. Joyce Roberts

Chairs Emeritus

Honorable James F. Conway

Steven F. Schankman

Mark J. Schnuck

SAINT LOUIS ZOO ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President Michael J. Hickey

Vice President Linda J. Hunter

Treasurer

Andrew T. Miedler

Secretary Maria G. Taxman

Immediate

Past President

Robert B. Smith III

Executive Committee

Kathleen W. Bilderback

Frances G. Pestello

Jason D. Sapp

Robert B. Smith III

Lisa K. Sullivan

Board of Directors

Barbara C. Archer

Nicholas Barto

Natalea Simmons

Beaudean

Cenia D. Bosman

Christine Boushka

Kevin Buie, Sr.

Debbie A. Caplin

Hazel Alethea R. Donald

Brad M. Edwards

Kathy S. Federico

Logan W. Finerty

G. Andrew Franz

Lauren Thomas Fries

Matthew W. Geekie

Amy A. Gill

Brett G. Gilliland

Janis G. Goldstein

Mark Graham

Heather Grewe

Davida Lichtenstein

Grindstaff

Ryan L. Hyman

Jason Janisse

Robert F. Johnston

Annette L. Kelly

Carol S. Klein

Lee C. Kling

Derek Larson, MD

James P. Leonard

Dr. Dan W. Luedke

Dr. Matthew R. MacEwan

Melissa Markwort

Alicia S. McDonnell

Patrick J. Moore

Dr. Stanley J. Niemann

Bhavik R. Patel

Angela M. Rhone

Quirsis V. Riney

Diane Saftic

James G. Sansone

Angela D.

Heather Wood

Emerita – Emeritus

Members

James G. Berges

Marguerite Garrick

Douglas E. Hill

Joseph F. Imbs III

John K. Wallace, Jr.

Ex-Officio

Emily Carter, President, Zoo

ADVISORY BOARD

Young Professionals Advisory Board SAINT LOUIS ZOO YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

President

Emily Carter

Secretary

Katie Doherty

Vice President, Education

Joe Palumbo

Vice President, Events

Christian Wargo

Vice President, Nominations

Brittany Mayfield

Vice President, Volunteers

Betsey Crites

Treasurer Justin Diecker

Immediate

Past President Whittney Dunn

Board Members

Andrew Besand

Joel Carter

Charles Cella

Katherine Dockery

Hannah Dove

Teghan Duhigg

Katherine Fash

Maya Gann-Bociek

Anthony Graham

Donald Hageman

Allison Heininger

Jack Hogan

Jennifer Jeffries

Rei Kato

Kelly King

Chance Lacey

Maggie Lohmeyer

Shawn Mann

Amy Molitoris

Tim Nielsen

Tambra Pendleton

Hannah Randolph

Kate Schwarze

Megan Schwedtmann

Alex Stepanek

Michael Stoecklin

Jake Thessen

Alex Wallach

Kathleen Walsh

Matthew Warren

Karla Weidner

Lisa Wilson

Luke Yamnitz

Devyn Yates

in this issue

On the cover 6 20 18 8 14

Did you know?

Four Mexican spider monkeys seized from smugglers are making a home at Primate Canopy Trails. Learn why primates don’t make good pets!

Counting down to Discovery

Henry A. Jubel Foundation Destination Discovery opens in less than a year! Get the latest scoop on this experience for children and families.

Weathering the storm

The May 16 tornado was devastating for our community. Get a glimpse into the 72 hours the Zoo was closed for cleanup efforts.

AZA accredited since 1977 — and going strong!

Accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums is like getting a gold star. See steps we take to ensure our organization is among the best of the best.

Penguins, poop and Peru: The sustainable guano harvest

Who knew poop could be so important? Get the story from keepers who travelled to Peru on a special fieldwork assignment.

Black vulture

Photo by Ray Meibaum

stlzoo is published quarterly as a member benefit by the Saint Louis Zoo Association, One Government Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110 Managing Editor: Rebecca McMiller; Editorial and Email Assistance: Billy Brennan, Jill Gordon, Erin Heffernan, Kirby Meyer and Elaine Vydra; Graphic Design: McCord Design Group; Contributing Photographer: Ray Meibaum; Contributors: Members of the Zoo staff.

At the Saint Louis Zoo, we not only care about the conservation of animals, but also about the conservation of the environment. That is why stlzoo magazine is created using FSC- (Forest Stewardship Council) certified paper with recycled materials and eco-friendly inks.

membership matters

In this section, we’ll briefly highlight top Zoo happenings in October, November and December 2025, from event and attraction updates to member-specific reminders. If you have questions about your membership, please visit stlzoo.org/membership or contact us at (314) 646-4771, option 2.

Reminder about your membership and benefits

As of March 1, our membership levels and benefits have changed. If you purchased or received a membership prior to March 1, you’ll continue to receive the same benefits until your membership expires. You'll receive detailed information about the changes before it’s time to renew. As always, thank you for supporting our Zoo!

Pay-upon-exit system now in Zoo parking lots

To help alleviate traffic congestion around the Zoo and provide the best experience for all guests, we’ve implemented a pay-upon-exit system in our parking lots. All members must scan their cards to enter the lots.

Unlimited $5 Parking Per Visit

• Members at the Explorer, Navigator and Protector levels. Upon scanning your membership card, you'll receive a ticket. Please pre-pay, keep your ticket and scan at the kiosk at the parking lot exit.

Unlimited Free Parking

• Members at the Champion and Benefactor levels

• Members at levels prior to March 1, 2025

• Marlin Perkins Society members

Parking instructions and step-by-step videos are available at stlzoo.org/parking.

Your stlzoo magazine subscription

All Zoo members receive a quarterly digital issue of stlzoo magazine, delivered to your email in January, April, July and October. If you’re a new member or renewed your membership after March 1, 2025, and you would like a printed issue mailed to your home address, please fill out our opt-in form at stlzoo.org/membership All past issues can also be found by visiting this webpage.

Attractions and experiences

Giraffe Feedings

$2 discount per person

The feeding schedule is 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. daily, weather and conditions permitting

Emerson Zooline Railroad

Included in member tickets; free for children 0-23 months

Open year-round, weather permitting

Mary Ann Lee Conservation Carousel

Included in premium member tickets; free for children 0-23 months

Open year-round, weather permitting

Sea Lion Show presented by Together Credit Union

Included in member tickets; free for children 0-23 months

Aug. 29-Oct. 26, 2025, Fridays-Sundays

Showtimes: 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m.

Stingrays at Caribbean Cove presented by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital

Included in premium member tickets; free for children 0-23 months

Open daily through Nov. 9

Wild Explorer VR Experience

$2 discount per person

Showings daily

Give Moments that Matter

Included:

Destination Discovery

Opens in 2026!

Zoo membership

Free plush toy with cheetah adoption

Zoo gift cards and event tickets

Give the Gift of the Zoo

A Zoo gi is more than a perfect present; it creates lifelong memories for your loved ones, plus supports our conservation e orts. From tours and tickets to memberships and adoptions, there’s an adventure for anyone on your list.

Plus, if you feel like a shopping outing, be sure to come to Holiday Zootique on Nov. 7 and use your member discount! Learn more at stlzoo.org.

wild news...

We’re excited to bring you updates about Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park, a safari park and conservation center set to open in 2027 on 425 acres near the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. In addition to stlzoo magazine, please follow us on social media for the latest updates about this one-of-a-kind wildlife experience.

Inside the WildCare Park baby boom

It’s a familiar sight at WildCare Park: A newborn antelope’s ears and budding horns just barely visible above the pasture grass.

Over the last year, the park has boomed with new animals and births of endangered species. In about 12 months, WildCare Park went from fewer than 20 animal residents to more than 65 from 10 different species today, including 16 births at the park. That’s just the beginning. By the time the park opens to the public, it will be home to more than 250 adult animals.

So, how do you grow a herd of some of the planet’s rarest hoofstock? It’s a mix of science, cooperation, care and patience.

Step one: Building the first generation

Before you can grow a herd, you need to build a strong foundation. WildCare Park works with cooperative breeding programs — collaborations between accredited zoos and wildlife organizations — to carefully select which animals to bring into the park. These programs focus on maximizing genetic diversity to benefit the species. Every year, experts across the country coordinate transfers to pair animals for the best possible match.

news...

Step two: Newborn watch

Keepers sometimes call the first step once the animals arrive “howdy access”— placing potential mates in adjoining stalls or pastures where they can see, hear and smell one another without direct contact. Animal Care staff closely monitor for signs of stress. If all looks good, the animals are then brought together in the pasture and keepers track timelines to estimate a birth window.

When pregnancy is suspected, the keeper team uses remote cameras and binoculars to observe signs — like swelling udders — that birth is near.

Unlike many traditional zoos where mothers are moved to maternity stalls, many calves at WildCare Park are born right in the pasture, just like in the wild.

After birth, staff carefully monitor the calves to ensure they’re nursing and developing normally. Zoo veterinarians perform neonatal health checks, often in the pasture right alongside the herd.

Armed with baffle boards to separate the mother, vets microchip the newborns, clean umbilical cords, draw blood, and check vital signs like vision and heartbeat — all in the open fields of WildCare Park.

To date, WildCare Park has welcomed births from four endangered and critically endangered species: Addax (antelope), banteng (wild cattle), Grevy’s zebra and scimitarhorned oryx (antelope).

Why It Matters

Conservation breeding at WildCare Park is about more than growing numbers. Most of the park’s species are endangered, and some — the addax, scimitar-horned oryx and Przewalski’s horse — have active programs that guide the release of animals from human care into the wild. Creating healthy herds at WildCare Park helps create more potential candidates for these programs along with more opportunities for important species research. WildCare Park ensures that, when the call comes, the park’s animals are ready to aid their species’ survival.

did you

What happened to the monkeys before their life at the Saint Louis Zoo?

Federal authorities in spring 2024 seized the monkeys as infants in three separate confiscations. Each was likely poached from the wild to be sold as an exotic pet, becoming a victim of a criminal network that typically kills the infants’ mothers during capture. After their seizure, the four monkeys were initially taken to Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville, Texas for care. Sadly, returning them to the wild was not possible due to the species’ complex social structures and the likelihood of re-poaching. The monkeys arrived at the Saint Louis Zoo in April 2025, and they made their public debut in Michael and Quirsis Riney Primate Canopy Trails in July. They need specialized care but are doing well.

know?

Many wildlife experts would answer, “How much time do you have?” Some reasons include specialized diets and medical care, injuries that wild animals can inflict on people, and zoonotic diseases. Purchasing an exotic pet could also be illegal, fueling the illegal capture and trade of animals. Learn more at AZA’s “Not a Pet” campaign at notapet.net. 2

Why don’t exotic animals make good pets?

What is the Saint Louis Zoo doing to help?

The Zoo has joined ongoing efforts to curb the pet primate trade in the U.S. by supporting passage of the Captive Primate Safety Act, a bill that would regulate the possession of non-human primates for use as personal pets. The Zoo is also a gold member of the Wildlife Trafficking Alliance, a collaboration between AZA zoos and other organizations working to reduce, and eventually eliminate, the illegal trade of wildlife and wildlife products.

Learn more about the spider monkeys’ story at stlzoo.org, and find out how you can support wildlife at notapet.net/what-you-can-do

DISCOVERY COUNTING DOWN TO

BY AMANDA BENDER, FRED SAIGH CURATOR OF DESTINATION DISCOVERY

RENDERINGS CREATED BY CLR DESIGN

In 2026, the Saint Louis Zoo will open one of its most ambitious projects to date: Henry A. Jubel Foundation Destination Discovery. This family-centered experience reimagines how our guests connect with nature and wildlife. Years in the making, this new addition is more than just a redesigned Children’s Zoo — it’s an entirely new way to see, hear and feel the natural world, through our commitment to animal care, conservation and immersive storytelling. From watching playful river otters to digging like a prairie dog, Destination Discovery will be a place where curiosity thrives and families can learn through play together.

It will take guests on a journey through diverse habitats by experiencing our featured habitats in the Underground Cities, Freshwater Wilderness and Forest Families neighborhoods. Every space has been designed to spark wonder, encourage exploration, and make connections with animals and animal families. Each visit will offer a new experience.

IMMERSIVE HABITATS

Destination Discovery will feature expansive, naturalistic spaces where animals can swim, climb, dig and explore. Guests will see animals displaying natural behaviors with unique interpretive opportunities to see training demonstrations or hear more about the care of each animal. The Treetop Heights walkway and creative design features, like the prairie dog viewing bubbles, will bring you right into their world or give you a new vantage point.

THE ELEVATED BOARDWALK WILL OFFER SWEEPING VIEWS OF THE ENTIRE SITE AND INTO THE RIVER OTTER AND FLAMINGO HABITATS

NATURE NOOK

This indoor interactive playspace will invite guests of all ages to learn about Missouri’s most unique animals through play. You can howl like a red wolf, pretend to be a hellbender researcher or go underground with American burying beetle parents caring for young. There are opportunities for even the youngest guests to learn about conservation science through engaging interactive features and role-playing fun.

AMBASSADOR ANIMALS

Guests will get a closer look at the Zoo’s world-class animal care through training demonstrations and interpretive opportunities with Animal Care staff. Two designated areas will feature pop-up, meet-and-greet demos throughout the day that highlight natural behaviors and amazing animals.

FUN THROUGH THE SEASONS

Destination Discovery can offer family experiences throughout all the seasons. The splash pad will be a perfect place to cool off in the summer, and with our café, retail store, locker rooms and “people-dryer,” we’ve made it easy to come and stay all day. Animals will be all around, even in chillier weather, and ambassador demonstrations will be featured in the aforementioned Nature Nook, rain or shine. In the winter, watch us convert our splash pad into a snowy play zone and visit with flamingos while you build a snowman.

THE ANIMAL WHO’S WHO?

While the grand opening is still months ahead, some animals destined for Destination Discovery already call the Zoo home, including:

SLOTH AND PORCUPINE: This fall, guests wandering the River’s Edge trail may be lucky to encounter some of the species that will eventually be featured in Destination Discovery: our Hoffman’s two-toed sloth Blondie and prehensile-tailed porcupine, Piper. You can even book a sloth tour for a private meet and greet with Blondie.

FLAMINGOS: We already have American flamingos at the Zoo, but our team is expanding expertise in caring for species that will thrive in the Freshwater Wilderness area of Destination Discovery. Chilean flamingo chicks recently hatched, and, as of this writing, are being reared behind the scenes. They will be part of a future public feeding opportunity once they move into Destination Discovery next year.

Keepers are preparing these animals for their future homes by offering enrichment, training and environment introductions that mirror what they’ll experience in the new space.

While Destination Discovery will have some animals that are familiar favorites, the experience will introduce guests to an exciting and diverse group of animals that haven’t resided at the Zoo before, including:

WHITE-NOSED COATI: Playful and acrobatic, they will be the stars of the Forest Families neighborhood.

BOBCAT: Our young bobcat will show off her incredible jumping and climbing skills.

BABYDOLL SHEEP: These tiny sheep will win a smile from every guest. The farm play area will let young guests pretend to care for these adorable farm friends.

GIANT NORTHERN LUZON CLOUD RATS: These arboreal rats are nocturnal and sport adorable black and white patterns. Every species in Destination Discovery has been carefully chosen for its ability to engage, inspire empathy and teach guests about the interconnectedness of all life.

“ OTTER” SPACE: A REIMAGINED HABITAT FOR RIVER OTTERS

One of the most anticipated features will be the new North American river otter habitat, designed to give guests unforgettable views of these energetic, charismatic animals. The multi-level space will let you watch otters dive, twist and play underwater from the two underwater viewing panels and clear flume tunnels. Or you might see them basking in the sun on the banks of their habitat from the Treetop Heights boardwalk.

CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS: BUILDING THE FUTURE

Destination Discovery construction began in August 2024. Through a series of engagement sessions with the Zoo, children and families from diverse backgrounds and abilities helped determine what themes, activities and features would create the best possible experience for guests. Some of these families helped with the groundbreaking at Destination Discovery! Since then, the Destination Discovery site has been buzzing with activity. Demolition, utility installation, grading and foundational work are well underway, and major structural elements are beginning to rise.

In upcoming months, the framework for the American river otter habitat and other spaces will take shape, like the new Life Support Systems building for water filtration systems that ensure clean, healthy aquatic environments. Paths, the viewing boardwalk and the climbing structure will also start emerging, giving a sense of how guests will flow through the experience.

The design team is working together with animal care experts to ensure every habitat is more than just built for

optimal animal welfare but also with sustainability in mind. This includes geothermal temperature control, solar panels and thoughtful design that reduces energy consumption. We are striving for LEED Gold and Sustainable SITES Initiative certifications for the Discovery Center building, where the Nature Nook and the Zoo’s new and expanded preschool will be housed. (See page 28 to learn about open houses for our new Second Nature Zoo Preschool.)

BRINGING DISCOVERY TO LIFE

We’re grateful to the Henry A. Jubel Foundation for their generous support and $15 million lead gift to Destination Discovery. We also extend heartfelt thanks to the donors who have contributed to this exciting project so far. To learn how you can support the creation of Destination Discovery, please contact our Development Department at (314) 646-4691.

WHY DESTINATION DISCOVERY MATTERS

Destination Discovery isn’t just about cool ambassador animals and state-of-the-art habitats; it’s about building empathy for all living things and helping guests understand that animal families are a lot like ours. A lot of our core messages are foundational and straightforward for a reason, so that even the youngest guest can connect with animals. In the meantime, while we wait for Destination Discovery to be completed, we invite you to watch the progress and dream alongside us. We can’t wait to share Destination

NEED A HOLIDAY GIFT IDEA?

Consider a Zoo membership, which will include Destination Discovery admission! Memberships last a year, so until Destination Discovery opens in 2026, your loved ones can enjoy parking perks, tickets to other

By Rebecca McMiller, Marketing Communications Manager

by Laurie Dahle and Zoo staff

It was a day that stunned us all. Like many devastating events throughout history, May 16 started like any other day and under bright blue skies. The Saint Louis Zoo’s free event, Endangered Species Day, was held earlier in the day to help raise awareness for threatened animals across the world. That afternoon, the weather quickly turned, and our surroundings darkened. As a tornado warning was issued, Zoo team members quickly ushered guests to safe buildings. When the storm ended, people emerged and saw a drastically altered landscape: trees violently snapped, and debris was strewn across campus. Deafening silence and eerily emerging sunshine gave way to the heavy question that hung in the air: “What now?”

“This

is why emergency drills matter”

First and foremost, staff checked that no people or animals were hurt after the storm, then subsequently evacuated guests from campus. Although the EF-3 tornado spared the Zoo from its direct path, the estimated 100- to 120-mile-per-hour winds caused unprecedented damage.

Upheaved trees and fallen branches caused the worst destruction, notably the broken plexiglass dome of the Mary Ann Lee Butterfly Wing. While the branches of the fallen trees provided a canopy that contained many butterflies, some did escape. Keepers jumped into action; all Animal Care team members train regularly for emergency recoveries. Invertebrate keepers checked the area for safety and used nets to carefully catch and contain the dome’s colorful residents. The Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House graciously provided

a home to the butterflies recovered from the dome. The Butterfly Wing will be reopened on a to-bedetermined date.

For animals in outdoor habitats, keepers initiated their “emergency recalls” to get the animals secured inside prior to the storm.

“Animals are trained to recognize a certain recall sound, like a cowbell or bicycle horn, and they know to come inside quickly for a special reward when they hear it,” said Cinnamon Williams, General Curator at the Saint Louis Zoo.

Emergency recalls are one of many training routines Animal Care staff do.

“Most species participate in training exercises with their keepers,” Williams said. “These exercises are not only beneficial for the animals’ healthcare — for example, they can

be trained to present body parts during checkups — but training exercises also build trust with their keepers. In emergency situations, this is especially critical.”

Aside from weather emergencies, the Zoo has emergency plans and facilitates drills for various situations, including animal escapes, venomous animal bites and fires.

“Emergency and disaster preparedness is so important — it can decrease the negative effects on human, animal and environmental health, as well as any property damage,” said Domini Montgomery, Director of Safety and Risk Management. “Preparedness also helps with decision-making in the time of a crisis, which helped us on May 16. This is why emergency drills matter.”

One branch at a time

With hundreds of tree stumps and limbs sadly lying across campus, it was clear that the Zoo must close.

“I was at home that day and headed to the Zoo after the storm passed to clean up what I thought was minor damage … I soon realized the true devastation and called in the entire Horticulture Department to help,” said Joseph Leritz, Manager, Horticulture.

In the 72 hours following the storm, Zoo staff from many departments needed to ensure animal habitats were safe and free from debris, secure fence lines, make walking paths safe, assess buildings and grounds, and document damage.

“Our team left the Zoo at 12:30 a.m. Saturday morning and

returned at 6 a.m. that same morning,” Leritz said. “A priority for us was the walkways … pushing trees out of the way and removing dangerous limbs dangling above. This way guests could safely explore the Zoo while we continued cleaning up the debris.”

With the long hours that many departments were working, it was paramount for team members to take care of themselves.

“We made sure people were resting, hydrating and listening to their bodies,” Montgomery said. “We held a debrief the Monday after the tornado where staff could come and receive updates, ask questions and generally check in. It was a

scary situation; we wanted to be sure to support staff in all aspects of safety — physical and mental.”

In the tornado’s wake, we were dealt another punch to the gut: damage to the future Komodo dragon habitat. This large lizard was slated to arrive at the Zoo in the summer; however, the roof of his habitat in the Charles H. Hoessle Herpetarium was impacted by trees. Fast forward to the present day: thanks to months of hard work, Charlie the Komodo dragon is set to make his long-awaited public debut at the start of Boo at the Zoo presented by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon, which starts Oct. 16!

Reopening as a place of healthy distraction

The Zoo reopened its gates at 9 a.m. on May 19 with about 70% of the campus fully opened. Reopening meant much more than resuming business operations ... it meant that the Zoo could serve its community again, however guests felt they needed the Zoo. A visit post tornado could be a place of healthy distraction and fun as well as a place of healing.

“That morning, the sounds of chainsaws and leaf blowers were replaced by the laughter of children enjoying end-of-year field trips,” said Michael Macek, Saint Louis Zoo Director. “There were other communities within St. Louis that fared far worse than us, and I’m glad that the Zoo could make people smile at a time of grief and uncertainty.”

Zoo leaders set a goal to be 100% operational by the upcoming

Friday, which was the start of Memorial Day weekend and one week after the tornado.

“We finished dealing with the final dangerous trees and path debris removal in River’s Edge and the train areas on Friday at 9 a.m. for opening. I went home at 10 a.m. that Friday and enjoyed a nice long weekend!” Leritz said.

Montgomery exclaimed how proud she is of her colleagues and the actions they took to keep others safe.

“Our Zoo team saved lives that day,” she said. “I also want to applaud our vendor partners and contractors who were on-site. They adhered to our safety procedures, took shelter, and helped us with evacuation and securing impacted fencing and downed trees. Everybody here really stepped up to help others, and I’m grateful for them.”

Leritz echoed that same gratitude. “People put in any extra hours they could muster, and so many Zoo departments stopped their ‘normal jobs’ to help us out in any way they could. We couldn’t have opened as quickly as we did without everyone working together.”

Walking around the Zoo today, guests can see little impact of the storm, aside from the Butterfly Wing damage. But projects still linger for Zoo staff, like replacing signs and fixing landscape issues. Open wounds to the Zoo campus have mostly turned to faint scars, though the hearts of many in our community may take longer to heal.

But the resilience of St. Louisans has stayed strong, and the Saint Louis Zoo will continue to be here as a welcoming place for all.

AZA accredited since 1977 — and going strong!

By Regina Mossotti, Vice President of Animal Care

If you’ve been a Zoo member for a while, you’ve probably heard us talk about the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, or the AZA. This organization is a big deal. It’s North America’s leading professional accrediting association for zoological organizations. If a zoo is AZA-accredited, it means that it’s committed to the highest standards of zoological operations. The Saint Louis Zoo has been AZA accredited since 1977, and every five years, we go through an application and inspection process to retain our accreditation. This year’s inspection just occurred in June. The process of getting this “gold star” isn’t easy. Of the approximately 2,800 animal exhibitors licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture, fewer than 10% are AZA accredited. While we strive to be “AZA inspection ready” every day, a lot of work goes into preparing for our week-long, on-site inspection. An added challenge for us this year was rebounding after an EF-3 tornado damaged our campus about a month before the inspection. Although achieving and maintaining our accreditation status is hard work, I truly love the process! It gives us opportunities to learn and grow as a team, and it reaffirms our dedication to the species in our care and to our guests and community. In September,

we got the result we worked so hard for — we’ve retained our AZA accreditation! Let me take you through what this means and why you can feel fantastic about supporting the Saint Louis Zoo.

Accreditation means:

We’ve been peer-reviewed by experts with decades of experience. When the AZA inspectors are on site, they evaluate animal and staff spaces, interview team members from many departments, review safety protocols, and more. These inspectors are experts who work at other accredited zoos across the country. They bring such great insight, different perspectives and experience — we learn a ton every time we go through this process! They have many points of criteria when evaluating zoos. Every year, the AZA updates its standards as innovation and science provide new information upon which to improve zoo operations. Some of the AZA’s performance-based standards include:

• Best practices related to animal care and welfare

• Veterinary care

• Scientific advancement

• Conservation

• Education

• Safety

• And other zoo operations

After our inspection, the evaluators submitted a report to the 12-member AZA Accreditation Commission.

This is a group of zoo experts that is charged with developing and supporting the AZA standards. Saint Louis Zoo leaders were later interviewed at a formal hearing with the Commission to determine if accreditation was granted. At the AZA Annual Conference in September, the decision was shared that we passed our inspection and application process with flying colors! The reviewers were very impressed with our Zoo, and we have retained our accreditation for another five years.

Accreditation means:

Our animals receive the best care. Animal care is at the heart of what we do, and teams across our Zoo work tirelessly to ensure animal welfare. As an AZA-accredited organization, we provide animals with:

• Healthy diets formulated by our expert staff nutritionist

• Exceptional health care provided by our Animal Health team

• Habitats that allow them to exhibit natural behaviors and offer choices

• Opportunities for cooperative training with keepers to improve care

• Enrichment that encourages natural behaviors and is fun!

Accreditation means:

Our Zoo operations are the best. At this year’s inspection, evaluators were especially impressed with our operations across three campuses: Saint Louis Zoo, Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park, and Saint Louis Zoo Sears Lehmann Jr. Wildlife Reserve. I’m proud that we achieved many high marks, and not just in direct animal care work. Just a few of those include our:

Landscaping across campus:

Guests can enjoy an outdoor oasis, and pollinators enjoy the food source! Great efforts are taken so the beautiful gardens and plantings are complementary to animal spaces and buildings.

Conservation work: The Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute and Saint Louis Zoo Institute for Conservation Medicine lead many projects to help threatened species, from here in Missouri to western Asia. We also

have a Reproductive and Behavioral Sciences team who work on research to benefit species around the world.

(And fun fact: the headquarters for the AZA Reproductive Management Center is at our Zoo!)

Multitude of professionals on the Zoo team: The Zoo is a small city with as many as 1,000 staff members, all who bring their skillsets to the table to benefit the natural world. The Zoo community includes an executive chef and catering team; a Facilities Management team with carpenters, welders, plumbers and more; security officers; a Distribution Center team who keep the Zoo stocked and ready with supplies; and many more.

We are so proud to be a member of the AZA. While going through the application and inspection process is incredibly hard work for our teams, it’s worth it to know that we are among the best zoos in the world. To be an AZA-accredited institution means that we are providing the best care for our animals, creating amazing experiences for our guests and helping to make the world a better place through our conservation work.

Penguins, poop and Peru: The sustainable guano harvest

By Sabrina Heffern, Public Relations Specialist

On the southern coast of Peru, the desert runs headlong into the Pacific Ocean. Humboldt penguins shuffle between burrows along the beach and vast flocks of Guanay cormorants dive overhead. Among them, Saint Louis Zoo keepers take up watch as partners in an unusual but vital conservation effort: the sustainable guano harvest.

Packed with nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, “guano” is — to put it plainly — bird poop. This prized natural fertilizer has supported international agriculture for centuries and plays a key role fueling Peru’s economy. Why does the Zoo care

about guano on the cliffs of Punta San Juan? Because it’s also an essential nest-building material for the penguins and cormorants that call the peninsula home.

Every five to seven years, Zoo keepers travel to Peru to observe the sustainable guano harvest. The marine reserve at Punta San Juan and partners from around the world manage this harvest with meticulous care, determined to protect these fragile nesting grounds and preserve Peru’s largest Humboldt penguin colony. Four Zoo keepers traveled to Peru for the 2025 campaign.

Protecting a resource and a refuge “Our role is to observe, report and advise,” said Penguin & Puffin Coast Keeper Clinton Scaggs. “We’re there to track the animals’ movements and record our observations for the future.”

While harvesters dig, bag and haul the guano away, Zoo keepers work in shifts to monitor penguins and pinnipeds. One observer watches from a high vantage point, while another monitors from inside the harvest site and flags animals approaching the work area.

“We’re in constant communication with each other,” said Sea Lion Sound Trainer Katie Stryker. “If animals are

on the move, we’re watching closely to make sure their path is clear.”

The guano harvest unites government agencies, reserve scientists, harvesters, interns and volunteers from around the world. For Scaggs, the collaboration gives deeper meaning to his work with Humboldts and other penguin species at the Zoo: “Here I am in St. Louis caring for penguins, and there are people in Peru working just as hard for these birds. When it comes to the animals, there’s no language barrier.”

After their shifts, the keepers join other conservation work on the reserve, from fur seal scat collection to beach cleanups. “It’s heartbreaking to see fur seal pups playing with garbage instead of seaweed,” Stryker said. “But it also makes our work on the reserve even more urgent.”

The dirty work

Not much has changed at the guano harvest in the last 200 years. Every campaign, Peruvian “guaneros” (the skilled laborers who collect guano) leave their families for months at a time to take part in this essential, albeit smelly, work. They do it all by hand, using the same tool that’s been used since the late 1800s: the pickaxe. Heavy machinery would certainly be faster, but it’s noisy, costly and disruptive to native wildlife. So tradition prevails.

But tradition hasn’t prevented progress. Every campaign introduces new solutions. This year, harvesters wore matching uniforms for the

first time to help them blend into the natural landscape. A new system for stacking collection bags also created a barrier between workers and animals. These small shifts minimize disturbance and make the harvest safer for both people and penguins.

Why it matters here, there and beyond

For the animals, the sustainable guano harvest protects vital nesting grounds. For Peru, it provides an economic lifeline. For the Zoo, it’s a way to live out our mission on a global scale — protecting species where they live.

But there’s still work to do.

The latest El Niño event and recent avian flu outbreaks have taken a toll on native populations. While penguins, Guanay cormorants and other Punta San Juan species have shown resilience in the past, monitoring their recovery will be critical before the next harvest.

“These animals need the guano,” said Scaggs. “They need to eat fish from the ocean. They need a safe home. And even people here in St. Louis can make a big impact by choosing sustainable seafood, recycling and fishing responsibly.”

For Scaggs, Stryker and their colleagues, the guano harvest is a one-of-a-kind conservation event. The experience reminds us that protecting native habitats for animals also impacts people, especially in Peru. That’s the collective power of something so small and seemingly insignificant: bird poop.

Meet

Charlie!

Purchase a Boo at the Zoo ticket for the Oct. 16-19 events, and you’ll get one of the first looks at Charlie, our new Komodo dragon! He’ll be viewable during regular Zoo hours starting Oct. 20.

the happenings

October, November and December

Animals

& You Nutrition

at the Zoo with St. Louis Children’s Hospital

Dates: Saturdays, Oct. 4 and Oct. 11, 2025

Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Price: Free

Stingrays at Caribbean Cove presented by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital

Dates: April 4-Nov. 9, 2025

Member Price: Included in premium member tickets; free for children 0-23 months

Guests can enjoy a hands-on opportunity to touch and feed these gentle ocean creatures.

Sea Lion Show presented by Together Credit Union

Dates: Aug. 29-Oct. 26, 2025 (Fridays-Sundays)

Showtimes: 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. (weather permitting)

Member Price: Included in member tickets; free for children 0-23 months

Sea lion superstars will thrill you with jumps and lots of splashing!

Stop by the St. Louis Children’s Hospital tent in Schnuck Family Plaza for animal-themed hand fans and healthy eating facts!

Zootoberfest

Dates and Times: Oct. 4-5 and 11-12, 2025, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; NEW! Oct. 10, 2025, 5-8 p.m.

Price: Free

Start autumn with a FREE, familyfriendly PROST! Sip beer, savor German-themed cuisine and hear live music. For the kinder, there is root beer and kids’ activities. We’ve also added an additional date (Oct. 10) for more “oompah” fun! Sponsored by Urban Chestnut Brewing Company.

Boo at the Zoo presented by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon

Dates and Member Prices: Oct. 14, 2025 (Sensory-Friendly Night): $12; Oct 16-30, 2025: $12; free for children 0-23 months

Join us for the Zoo’s non-scary, kid-friendly Halloween event. And making his debut at this year’s Boo at the Zoo is Komodo dragon Charlie! Boo at the Zoo guests can get one of the first glimpses of him as part of their ticket purchase for the Oct. 16-19 dates (Charlie will be viewable by all Zoo guests starting Oct. 20). Sponsored by: SSM Health Cardinal Glennon, Mid America Chevy Dealers, Prairie Farms Dairy,

happenings

Zoo Dunnit? A Mystery Dinner

Date: Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025

Time: 5:45-9 p.m.

Member Price: $680 (gratuity and tax included) for a table of eight. Tickets are available through Oct. 22.

Age: 21+ only

Wild Lights presented by Commerce Bank

Date: Select nights, Nov. 28-Dec. 28, 2025;

Get ready for a roarin’ time with this year’s Zoo Dunnit theme: “Death of a Gangster: A 1920s Mafia Marriage Murder Mystery.” Come to the Saint Louis Zoo dolled up in your flapper dresses and zoot suits and get ready for a jazzy night of mystery, intrigue and murder!

Holiday Zootique

Date: Friday, Nov. 7, 2025

Time: 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Price: Free

Get a jump on holiday shopping and find unique, conservation-oriented gifts you can’t find anywhere else. Zoo members receive special discounts, and volunteers will be available to wrap your gifts for you.

Sensory-friendly Night: Dec. 8 Member Price: Dec. 10-23: $15; remaining nights are $12; free for children ages 0-23 months

Enjoy the Zoo decked out for the holidays! Sponsored by Commerce Bank, Mid America Chevy Dealers, Prairie Farms Dairy, Coca-Cola, Spire and Dot Foods.

Breakfast with Santa

Date: Nov. 29-30, Dec. 6-7, Dec. 13-14, 2025

Price and Seating Times: Visit stlzoo.org for seating times; pre-paid reservations are required. Children ages 0-23 months are free, and parking is free.

Festive holiday breakfast buffet includes a photo opportunity with Santa, a gift for kids and visits from costumed characters.

Hours

Oct. 13 through Dec. 31, 2025

9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, except holidays

Nov. 27, 2025 (Thanksgiving Day) 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Dec. 24, 2025 (Christmas Eve) 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Dec. 25, 2025 (Christmas Day) Zoo closed

Dec. 31 (New Year’s Eve) 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Details are subject to change. See what’s new and get the latest at stlzoo.org.

education programs

Early Childhood Programs

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Fees are listed per child.

All Early Childhood programs are designed for you and your child to learn about animals and explore the natural world together. We encourage you to interact with and help facilitate the learning of the registered program participant. Programs are interactive and may include songs and stories, art opportunities, role-playing games, hands-on investigations and more. In order to best serve all of our Early Childhood participants, unregistered children may not participate in the programs.

FOR CHILDREN AGES 12-24 MONTHS

Limited to 16 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child.

Fee: Zoo Members $28/General Public $31.

Polar Bear Paws

Dive right in to learn all about these furry, marine mammals. We will explore where polar bears live and how they are specially adapted to their icy, cold homes. Then, we will walk over to Polar Bear Point to see the bears.

C0118PB: Jan. 18 (Su); 9-10 a.m.

Moving and Grooving

Leap into the world of animal movements!

This class will get your little one up and moving as we discover how animals fly, slither or swim to get from place to place and to explore the world around them.

C0228MG: Feb. 28 (Sa); 9-10 a.m.

Baby Animals

Tadpoles, chicks and bunny kits make spring a great time to look for baby animals! Bring your little one to the Zoo to explore how animals take care of their young. Take a walk to look for new arrivals at the Zoo and make a keepsake craft together.

C0328BA: March 28 (Sa); 9-10 a.m.

Slimy, Scaly, Feathery Fun

Join us for some sensory fun as we learn about coverings. We will explore different animal textures, such as shells, scales, furs and feathers, and even make non-toxic slime to take home!

C0503SF: May 3 (Su); 9-10 a.m.

FOR CHILDREN AGES 2-3 YEARS

Limited to 16 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child.

Fee: Zoo Members $28/General Public $31.

Colors, Stripes and Spots

Some creatures are boldly beautiful, while others are cleverly camouflaged. Discover a world of colorful critters and learn how patterns and colors help animals survive.

C0110CS: Jan. 10 (Sa); 9-10 a.m.

Delightful Diggers

Do you love to dig in the dirt? So do prairie dogs, worms and other burrowing animals! Uncover a world beneath the surface as we learn about animals that live underground through stories, songs and play.

C0201DD: Feb. 1 (Su); 9-10 a.m.

Super Senses

What colors does a bee see? How does a mole find its food? Explore how other animals touch, hear, smell and see in different ways to find out what it is like to have animal super senses.

C0315SS: March 15 (Su); 9-10 a.m.

Beautiful Birds

Come explore the world of beautiful birds! In the classroom, we’ll learn about birds near our homes and around the world, then visit the Bird House to see some of the Zoo’s feathered friends.

C0418BB: April 18 (Sa); 9-10 a.m.

Froggy Friends

Hop on over to the Zoo and jump into the world of frogs! We will explore the adaptations of these awesome amphibians from around the world and learn how we can help native frogs living near us.

C0517FF: May 17 (Su); 9-10 a.m.

FOR CHILDREN AGES 3-5

Limited to 16 children, with 1-2 adults attending per child.

Fee: Zoo Members $30/General Public $33.

Lizard Scales and Tails

Crawl into the world of lizards! We will explore tails, scales and more as we learn about this unique group of reptiles. Then, we will visit the Herpetarium to check out some of the lizards at the Zoo.

C0124LS: Jan. 24 (Sa); 9-10:30 a.m.

Once Upon a Zoo

Bring your imagination along on a fairytale adventure! We will explore some favorite stories as we learn about animal royalty and the real animals that inspire legendary creatures. You are invited to dress as your favorite prince, princess or other fairytale character.

C0208OZ: Feb. 8 (Su); 9-10:30 a.m.

Adventures in Zookeeping

Come explore the wide variety of animal careers that keep the Zoo running smoothly. We’ll test our poop scooping abilities, learn some veterinary skills and create pretend animal diets. We’ll even design and build our very own zoos!

C0307AZ: March 7 (Sa); 9-10:30 a.m.

Amazing Animal Families

Animals have families, just like we do! Discover the wild world of animal families and learn how animals live and work together to care for their young. Join us as we explore denning polar bears, caring crocodiles, nesting hornbills and more.

C0412AF: April 12 (Su); 9-10:30 a.m.

Insect Investigation

Hop, fly and crawl into the wild world of insects. Become an insect detective as we explore what makes these six-legged friends special. We’ll practice making insect observations like a scientist and learn how we can submit our findings to community science projects on insects in our area. May 9 (Sa); 9-10:30 a.m.

Camp Programs

Participants attend these programs on their own, unaccompanied by a parent or other adult.

SCHOOL BREAK CAMPS FOR STUDENTS IN GRADES 1-5

When school is on break, you can spend the day at the Saint Louis Zoo! Join our educators to learn about animals and conservation. Each day of camp will have crafts, games, Zoo tours and a whole lot of FUN!

Black Friday Camp: Feast for the Beasts

What is a tortoise’s favorite treat? How much food does an elephant eat? After a day full of feasting, campers will explore what it takes to feed ALL the animals at the Saint Louis Zoo. Come discover the worlds of carnivores, herbivores and omnivores! Add After-Care for an additional fee.

Nov. 28 (F); 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $66/General Public $73.

Black Friday Camp After-Care

Participants will enjoy various activities building on their camp experience. This program is for Black Friday Camp participants only.

Nov. 28 (F); 3-6 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $22/General Public $24.

Winter Break Camp: Winter Wonderland

How do animals survive the cold winter? Why do some animals migrate, while others hibernate? Let’s explore what is going on in the winter wonderland outside of our own homes. We will learn about migration and hibernation, look for signs of animals in the snow, and more! Add After-Care for an additional fee.

Dec. 22-24 (M-W); 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $198/General Public $219.

Winter Break Camp: Animals A to Z

A is for addax, B is for bald eagle, C is for Chinese alligator ... The world is full of some incredible animals, from addax to zebra and everything in between! Throughout this camp, we will play games, create animal art and visit animals all over the Zoo. Discover the

amazing biodiversity on Earth as we explore the alphabet, one letter at a time! Add After-Care for an additional fee.

Dec. 29-31 (M-W); 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $198/General Public $219.

Winter Break Camp After-Care

Participants will enjoy various activities building on their camp experience. This program is for Winter Break Camp participants only.

Dec. 22-24 (M-W); 3-6 p.m.

Dec. 29-31 (M-W); 3-6 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $66/General Public $72.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Camp: Animal Superheroes

Everyone has their own special superpower! From the super speed of a cheetah to the high flying of a bar-headed goose, we will meet a lot of incredible animals while creating superhero art and learning how to be a conservation hero at home! Add After-Care for an additional fee.

Jan. 19 (M); 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $66/General Public $73.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Camp After-Care

Participants will enjoy various activities building on their camp experience. This program is for MLK Day Camp participants only.

Jan. 19 (M); 3-6 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $22/General Public $24.

Presidents’ Day Camp: Animal Artists

Get your paints, crayons and markers ready! We will look at how art is used for animal enrichment at the Zoo. Get creative, learn how to draw different animals, and create colorful masterpieces! Add After-Care for an additional fee.

Feb. 16 (M); 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $66/General Public $73.

Presidents’ Day Camp After-Care

Participants will enjoy various activities building on their camp experience. This program is for Presidents’ Day Camp participants only.

Feb. 16 (M); 3-6 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $22/General Public $24.

Spring Break Camp: Wildlife Celebration

Let’s explore the Zoo’s conservation work! From pole to pole, from land to sea, the Zoo helps protect animals all over the world. Campers will explore the Zoo and discover how they can help animals right from their own homes! Add After-Care for an additional fee.

March 16-20 (M-F); 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $345/General Public $370.

Spring Break Camp After-Care

Participants will enjoy various activities building on their camp experience. This program is for Spring Break Camp participants only.

March 16-20 (M-F); 3-6 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $110/General Public $120.

Spring Holiday Camp: Swing into Spring

The primates are ready to swing into spring! Lemurs, monkeys and apes all rely on a healthy forest for food, shelter and to get around. Join us on this fun day of camp crafts, games and animal tours to learn all about our primate pals at the Zoo and how we can help protect their forest homes. Add After-Care for an additional fee.

April 3 (F); 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $66/General Public $73.

Spring Holiday Camp After-Care

Participants will enjoy various activities building on their camp experience. This program is for Spring Holiday Camp participants only.

April 3 (F); 3-6 p.m.

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $22/General Public $24.

education programs

Scout and Youth Group Programs

The Education Department offers many opportunities for scouts and other organized youth groups to enjoy the Zoo and learn about the animal world. Programs may include biofacts, activities, games, tours or crafts. We offer a variety of programs that help scouts work toward their badge requirements! Your group will have fun together while learning about animals, their habitats and conserving natural resources. Visit the website for the scout registration packet. For more information, contact the Overnight Staff at overnights@stlzoo.org.

ZSI (Zoo Scene Investigation) Snooze

A caper has been pulled by animals here at the Zoo and your job is to figure out who did it. You will learn all about how animal scientists track animals using footprints, teeth imprints, and even some tiny clues that will need to be seen under a microscope. So come spend an evening following the clues to solve this “who done it” style animal mystery.

Overnight evening activities will include rotations through exciting activities, an evening pizza snack (with a soft drink), and a night hike around Zoo grounds. The morning portion of the overnight adventure includes a continental breakfast, a morning stroll around Zoo grounds, a souvenir Zoo patch and glow-in-the-dark overnight cup!

For Girl Scout Brownies and their adult chaperones

Nov. 1; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

Jan. 24; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

Feb. 14; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

March 7; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

March 27; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

April 17; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

For Girl Scout Juniors and their adult chaperones

Nov. 7; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

Feb. 21; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

March 13; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

April 11; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

April 24; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

For Cub Scouts and their adult chaperones

Nov. 15; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

Jan. 30; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

March 6; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

April 10; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

For Girl Scout mixed troops and their adult chaperones

Nov. 21; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

Feb. 6; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

March 28; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

April 25; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

Limited to 60 participants per session. Fee: $55 per participant.

PRIVATE GROUP OVERNIGHT PROGRAMS

For organized scout, youth and school groups with participants ages 5 and up, you can schedule your own private group overnight on select evenings. Using the themes we are currently offering, we will tailor the program to meet your needs. Fees are listed per person. Visit the website to complete a booking request form. For more information, contact the Overnight Staff at overnights@stlzoo.org.

Polar Bear Plunge

Limited to 20 participants per session, with a 12 participant minimum. Fee: $80 per participant.

ZSI (Zoo Scene Investigation)

Limited to 60 participants per session, with a 30 participant minimum. Fee: $55 per participant.

Family Programs

Parents and children attend these programs together. A minimum of one adult must accompany the group. Fees are per person.

Polar Bear Plunge

For families with children ages 5 and up. Join us for this amazing opportunity to sleep inside Polar Bear Point! We will explore the Zoo at night while learning about Arctic and Antarctic animals and their unique adaptations that allow them to live in the cold. We will end the night by laying out sleeping bags inside the underwater viewing building. You will awake with a view of the polar bear pool and hopefully with a view of Kallik and Kallu! The overnight includes an evening snack, a reusable cup and a continental breakfast in the morning.

Oct. 3; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa)

Dec. 5; 6:30 p.m. (F) – 8:30 a.m. (Sa) March 7; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $75/General Public $80.

Career Day Programs

For youth entering 2nd-8th grades. Youth attend these programs on their own or with an accompanied registered parent or other adult. Each child and adult must pay the registration fee. Fees are listed per person. All participants must be registered. See the current availability at stlzoo.org/tours. NOTE: We do not recommend these programs for participants with shellfish allergies. Please mention any latex allergies at the time of registration.

A Day with the Rays

Join the Saint Louis Zoo’s team of keepers by participating in A Day with the Rays! As an aquatics keeper for the day, you will jump right in to help prepare diets and maintain the habitat to keep it looking nice and the animals healthy. As the new expert, you will help guests learn about our exhibit, how to touch and feed the stingrays, and touch the sharks. Please wear a T-shirt, khaki or jean shorts, and old closed-toe shoes. Bring a bottle of water and a camera. A Saint Louis Zoo name tag, T-shirt and snack will be provided. Get wet, smell like fish and have a ton of fun with A Day with the Rays!

Select Dates May-September; 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Limited to four participants per session. Fee: $140 per person.

Advanced Day with the Rays

Dive deeper into the science and career of an aquatics keeper. In this second program, you will continue building your knowledge by participating in animal husbandry duties. Once the daily tasks are accomplished, you will explore fish and cephalopod biology, perform advanced marine water quality monitoring, and, of course, have some time for fun and games. It’s time to show off all that you learned from last time as well as pick up a few new tricks along the way. Please wear a T-shirt (your Day with the Rays shirt is a great choice), khaki or jean shorts, and old closed-toe shoes. Bring a bottle of water and a camera. A snack will be provided. Get wet, smell like fish and have even more fishy fun with Advanced Day with the Rays!

Select Dates May-September; 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Participants must have attended A Day with the Rays.

Limited to four participants per session. Fee: $140 per person.

Adult Programs Ages 18

Escape the Zoo: WildCare Institute Edition

Make your way around the Zoo, finding clues and solving puzzles as you learn all about the field work of our WildCare Institute. Discover the keys to saving species in Forest Park and around the world. Does your team have what it takes to support the WildCare Institute and escape before time runs out? Build your team of up to 10 individuals, ages 18 and up.

I0909EZ: Sept. 9 (Tu); 5:30-7 p.m.

I0414EZ: April 14 (Tu); 5:30-7 p.m.

I0512EZ: May 12 (Tu); 5:30-7 p.m.

Limited to 10 participants per team, with a maximum of three teams per session. Fee per team: Zoo Members $190/ General Public $200.

Escape the Zoo 2: Back to the Future Edition

Travel through history and experience the evolution of the Saint Louis Zoo. Solve the puzzles of the past to unlock the excitement of the future. It is a race against the clock, but the clock is generous, so take in the sights and sounds of the Zoo in this escape roomstyle adventure. Build your team of up to 10 individuals, ages 18 and up.

I0819E2: Aug. 19 (Tu); 6-8 p.m.

I0421E2: April 21 (Tu); 5:30-7 p.m.

I0519E2: May 19 (Tu); 5:30-7 p.m.

Limited to 10 participants per team, with a maximum of three teams per session.

Fee per team: Zoo Members $225/ General Public $245.

A Sunset View – Past and Future

Enjoy a cool evening tour of the Zoo exploring the history that has made us an internationally famous institution. We’ll also visit several habitats and discuss the future transformations that will keep us the talk of the zoological world! Finish with snacks and beverages while watching the sunset. This tour does not include touching live animals or access to non-public areas.

I0915SV: Sept. 15 (M); 5:30-7 p.m.

Limited to 25 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $26/General Public $29.

Come see the Zoo throughout the year. Each tour will highlight a different area and its seasonal happenings. See what the animals are up to each season and how we adjust our care throughout the year.

I0712SZ: July 12 (Sa); 10-11:15 a.m.

I1011SZ: Oct. 11 (Sa); 10-11:15 a.m.

I0110SZ: Jan. 10 (Sa); 10-11:15 a.m.

I0418SZ: April 18 (Sa); 10-11:15 a.m.

Limited to 20 participants. Fee: $20 per person.

ADULT OVERNIGHT PROGRAMS

Adults aged 18 and up can schedule their own private group overnight on select evenings. Using the current themes, we will tailor the program to meet your needs. Fees are listed per person. For organized adult groups, you can schedule your own private group overnight on select evenings. For more information, please contact the Overnight Staff at overnights@stlzoo.org.

Polar Bear Plunge

Join us for this amazing opportunity to sleep inside Polar Bear Point! You will talk with Zoo staff about how we help animals all over the world and then team up to solve a scavenger hunt. After a night hike, we will end the night by laying out sleeping bags inside the underwater viewing building. You will awake with a view of the polar bear pool and hopefully with a view of Kallik and Kallu! This overnight includes a catered dinner and continental breakfast.

Nov. 8; 6:30 p.m. (Sa) – 8:30 a.m. (Su)

Limited to 20 participants.

Fee: Zoo Members $80/General Public $85.

PRIVATE PROGRAMS

For organized groups, you can schedule your own private experience on select evenings. Using the current themes, we will tailor the program to meet your needs. Check our website to complete a booking request form. For more information and pricing, please contact the Overnight Staff at overnights@stlzoo.org.

Family Night Hikes

For families and organized groups with participants ages 5 and up.

Ever wonder what the Zoo is like after it closes? Gather some friends and join us for this amazing opportunity to explore the Zoo at night! A Zoo educator will be the guide for your group to learn more about the animals.

Tour Length: 90 minutes.

Fee per group: $350 for your group of up to nine family members or friends. $35 per each additional participant up to a maximum of 20 family members or friends.

Adult Night Hikes

For adult groups with participants ages 18 and up.

Ever wonder what the Zoo is like after it closes? Gather some friends and join us for this amazing opportunity to explore the Zoo at night! A Zoo educator will be the guide for your group to learn more about the animals.

Tour Length: 90 minutes.

Fee per group: $350 for your group of up to nine friends. $35 per each additional participant up to a maximum of 20 family members or friends.

REGISTRATION: Please see Education Registration information on our website. Camp programs: Registration closes three weeks before the program start date. All other programs: Registration closes two weeks before the program start date. PAYMENT: Complete payment is required at the time of registration. CANCELLATIONS: Advanced notice is required for all cancellation/refund requests. A refund minus a processing fee will be issued for all program cancellations. Three weeks’ notice is required to cancel any camp program. Two weeks’ notice is required to cancel all other programs. We reserve the right to cancel a program due to low enrollment (full refund will be issued). TRANSFERS: Transfers are subject to availability, and a processing fee will apply. Three weeks’ notice is required to transfer any camp programs. Two weeks’ notice is required to transfer all other programs. Visit the website for updated cancellation/refund and transfer fees. CONFIRMATIONS: A Registration Report will be e-mailed after your registration is processed. For more information, please contact the Education Department at (314) 646-4544, option #6

Second Nature Zoo Preschool

2026-2027

New Full-Day Classes

Second Nature Zoo Preschool is a Reggio-inspired, nature-based program, with a strong focus on creativity, critical thinking and social and emotional learning. Students will spend at least 50% of their time outdoors.

Highlights:

Sun Bear Class

Two days: Tuesday and Thursday

Ages 3-4, $1,100/month

Grizzly Bear Class

Three days: Monday, Wednesday, Friday

Ages 4-5, $1,600/month

Polar Bear Class

Five days: Monday--Friday

Ages 3-5, $2,600/month

• 1:6 student/teacher ratio

• NEW: all classes are full day, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• New building with private outdoor play space

• Overlooks Destination Discovery

• New private entrance

Scan to join the mailing list!

Applications open Jan. 1-31

Open houses: Nov. 2 and Jan. 4 from 9 a.m. to noon

Making room for every young explorer, thanks to you!

By Jayne Ullstrom, Manager of Stewardship & Special Initiatives

The Saint Louis Zoo was buzzing with energy this summer as we welcomed campers who explored every corner of the Zoo, met incredible animals, made new friends and created lasting memories in nature.

Each year, the Zoo’s Conservation Education Department offers eight weeks of engaging summer camps for over 1,500 campers, ages 5 through 15. Through games, crafts, music and upclose animal encounters, campers gain a deeper connection to wildlife and a sense of personal responsibility for protecting the natural world.

We believe every child — regardless of financial resources or ability — deserves the opportunity to be part of this experience. That’s why the Conservation Education Scholarship Program, established in 1991, provides

support for camp registration, transportation, meals and extended care. This program is made possible entirely through donor generosity.

In addition to financial barriers, many families also face challenges related to access and accommodation. The need for inclusive, individualized support continues to grow, and the Zoo is committed to meeting it.

The Conservation Education Department’s Inclusion Program ensures that all children feel welcome, supported, and able to fully participate — whether at Zoo Preschool, summer camp or other educational programs throughout the year.

Thanks to your support, we’re creating more inclusive experiences that welcome children of all abilities. Philanthropic contributions help

provide the resources needed to ensure every child can fully engage in ways that work best for them.

Your generosity plays a vital role in expanding access — helping us offer meaningful accommodations, enhance staffing and foster an environment where all participants can learn, explore and thrive.

Thank you for helping us build a more inclusive future. Because of you, more children are discovering wildlife, exploring their curiosity and feeling a true sense of belonging in nature. Interested in providing a Zoo educational experience for a child in 2026? Please visit stlzoo.org/education or call the Development Office at (314) 646-4691.

Powering possibility: Emerson’s enduring partnership with the Saint Louis Zoo

By Jayne Ullstrom, Manager of Stewardship & Special Initiatives

For more than four decades, Emerson has been a pivotal partner of the Saint Louis Zoo, helping create memorable experiences for millions of guests. Their support has brought to life some of the Zoo’s most iconic attractions — spaces that have entertained and inspired guests of all ages.

Among the most enduring of these experiences is the beloved Zooline Railroad. Since its inaugural ride in 1963, this charming train has transported more than 42 million passengers through the heart of the Zoo. In 2010, Emerson made a significant $5 million gift to preserve and enhance this treasured attraction, leading to its renaming as the Emerson Zooline Railroad — a tribute to their commitment to ensuring this timeless tradition continues to bring joy to future generations.

Emerson’s impact also includes the ever-popular Emerson Children’s Zoo, which welcomed over 11 million

guests from 1998 to 2020. Featuring interactive exhibits and hands-on encounters, the space gave young guests opportunities to explore, imagine and engage with wildlife. Most recently, Emerson championed Dinoroarus, a limited-time experience that brought prehistoric creatures to life and captivated thousands during its three-year run.

Now, Emerson is extending this remarkable legacy with a new $2 million contribution — an investment in the future of conservation, education and community. This gift will help bring to fruition two transformational projects: Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park and the Henry A. Jubel Foundation Destination Discovery.

Part of the gift will support the Nature Play Area at WildCare Park, the Zoo’s 425-acre safari park under development in north St. Louis County. Designed as an inclusive outdoor classroom, the area will feature play structures that invite children and

families to explore and connect with the natural world.

Emerson’s gift will also help bring to life Destination Discovery, an immersive learning space located on the site of the former Emerson Children’s Zoo. With hands-on exhibits, exploratory zones and animal encounters, it will foster curiosity, a love of science and nature, and lasting memories.

“We are proud to continue our impact at the Saint Louis Zoo,” said Akberet Boykin Farr, Vice President, Human Resources-Corporate Functions, Emerson. “These new projects represent the next chapter in a legacy we are honored to help shape.”

Emerson’s long-standing partnership has left an indelible mark on the Zoo — and now, it will help guide the future of both WildCare Park and Destination Discovery, bringing wonder and amazement to life in new and exciting ways.

Last splash of the year!

Don’t miss your chance to “sea” what the splashing is about at the Sea Lion Show presented by Together Credit Union — shows end for the year on Sunday, Oct. 26. Remember to bring your membership card and redeem your member bene ts for the show!

Plus, don’t miss your chance to get your Saint Louis Zoo Debit Card today! Each purchase you make with your new Saint Louis Zoo Debit Card with Give Back Checking will automatically round up toward a donation to support the Zoo.

Marlin Perkins Society

The Saint Louis Zoo is extremely fortunate to have the support of more than 1,300 generous individuals, foundations and corporations through the Marlin Perkins Society. We welcome our newest members to the Society and thank them for joining this wonderful group of supporters. To our current members who have increased their financial support, we are pleased to recognize you as well. We are grateful for your commitment to our mission.

New Marlin Perkins

Society Members

May 1 – July 31, 2025

Stacey Abby & Paul Malak

William & Ann Brenner

Joseph & Joan Gleich

Barbara Combs & Sanjay Jain

Norma Deen Juracsik

Christopher & Katie Mihok

Paula & John Miller

Linnie Morgan

Matthew & Ashley Porter

Carol J. Schreiner

Steve & Pam Solomon

Together Credit Union

Pete Woods

Janet Zimerman

Current Marlin Perkins

Society Members Who Have

Increased Support

May 1 – July 31, 2025

AAA Missouri (20)

Debbie & Mike Abbott (10)

Marcia & Joe Ambrose

Leah Amir Msc, MHA

Carol & Robert Beck

Ronald L. & Cheryl L. Bednar (10)

Lee Berger (10)

Rick & Tina Borgmeyer and Family (10)

Wendy & Les Borowsky (25)

Callahan Custom Homes

Cass Information Systems, Inc. / Cass Commercial Bank

Pamela Coffin

Cole & Associates, Inc. (10)

Susan Colegrove

Jerico & Stefanie Collins

Megan Collins & Dr. Steven Taylor

Michelle H. & William H. Crabbin (15)

Pamela & Mark Cunningham

Jack & Ellen Deutsch (20)

Charles A. Dill

Mr. David & Dr. Debra Dixon (10)

Marilyn S. & Richard Dredge

Ashley & Nate Edwards

Margaret & Gordon Finley (10)

FleishmanHillard Inc.

Eric & Gordana Fritsche

Vince & Jordan Gaia

Joan Gettemeyer (10)

Bonnie & Mark Goldenberg

Jesse & Jill Graftenreed (15)

Dr. Steven & Dr. Alla Grossman

Elena & Greg Hake (10)

Hansen’s Tree Service & Environmental Resources

Dave & Kathy Hawkins

Eleanor B. Hecht (25)

The Hertlein Family

Hightower Wealth Advisors (20)

Ken & Patti Hise

Bruce & Gloria Holland (10)

Margaret & Thomas Hollis

Tom & Karen House

Robyn & John Huhn

Mr. & Mrs. Robert L. Huskey (25)

Sandra & John Irace (15)

S. Janoski & Family

Ryan & Nicole Jeffery

Mr. David Jockenhoefer

Patrick & Annette Kelly (10)

Andrew Klein & Ellen Donovan (20)

Nicholas & Erin Koenemann

Julie & Jeffrey Lazaroff

Dot & Larry LeGrand

Sally S. Lemkemeier

Bruce & Diana Linders (15)

Leslie & Paul Lux (25)

Dave & Sandy Maas

Scott MacArthur

Dr. & Mrs. Charles Mannis (20)

Melissa & Herbert Markwort

Ms. Deborah K. Martens (10)

Chris & Bonnie Miget (10)

Jim & Nancy Murphy (10)

Nestlé Purina PetCare Company

Nidec Motor Corp. (15)

Stan J. Niemann

Neal & Ann Perryman (10)

Drs. Frances & Fred Pestello

Michael & Julie Pfister

Plaza Advisory Group (10)

James & Kathleen Radi

Mirella Ravarino

Thomas Rea & Catherine Ruggeri-Rea

Bryan & Jessica Reinheimer

Richard & Heather Riehemann

Michael & Susan Roesch (10)

Bob & Sally Roth

James & Nancy Sauer

Bob & Johanna Schillinger

Esther & Henry Schweich (20)

Dwight & Kathy Scott

SFW Partners, LLC

Tony & Valerie Spratte

Mary Strauss (20)

Dr. David & Amy Striker

Viola J. Striker

In Memory of Patricia Swartz

The Cagle Law Firm (10)

Rod & Donna Thiel

Mr. & Mrs. Robert P. Tschudy (25)

Dr. Brent Underwood & Dr. Patty Corum

The Vogel Family

Mr. & Mrs. George K. Vogt (10)

Alan & Susie Wallach

Joseph & McKenzie Walter

The Webb Family (10)

Karen & Richard Weber

Wells Fargo Advisors (20)

James & Dana Whalen (10)

Todd Wilkes

Mr. & Mrs. Robert M. Williams, Jr. (25)

Christina & Geoff Wilson

Jim & Darcie Witherspoon (25)

Isaac & Marilyn Young (25)

(10) denotes member for at least 10 years

(15) denotes member for at least 15 years

(20) denotes member for at least 20 years

(25) denotes member for at least 25 years

Please contact the Development Office at (314) 646-4859 if you:

• Would like information on how you can join or increase your support to the Marlin Perkins Society.

• Discover a discrepancy or have a question (the Zoo makes every effort to acknowledge all gifts and to maintain accurate records).

Honor Roll

The following list represents new major and planned gifts and pledges, excluding Marlin Perkins Society and other membership gifts, made to the Saint Louis Zoo Association from May 1 to July 31, 2025. Donors are listed in the category of their most recent giving to the Saint Louis Zoo.

Leadership Gifts

$1,000,000 and Above

Nancy H. Child

Mr. & Mrs. Theodore P. Desloge, Jr.

Thomas A. Kooyumjian Family Foundation

Major Gifts

$259,999 – $100,000

Marion B. Black

Estate of Laurance & Virginia Browning

Nestlé Purina PetCare Company Corporate

Estate of Mildred M. Soos

Special Gifts

$99,999 – $50,000

Anonymous

Michael & Steph Heim

Jordan Charitable Foundation

Kathleen and Paul Lang Family Foundation

Lisa Mechele

Cathy & Randy Meisner

Estate of Ann M. Parke

$49,999 – $25,000

Anonymous

Nick Barto & Nancy Clare Morgan

Estate of Terry L. Cox

Tracy C. Green

Laura Kaiser

Dr. Jane E. Kosa

Marshall Fellowship Fund

Neal F. & Ann M. Perryman

$24,999 – $10,000

Mr. & Mrs. Charles Berry

Colegrove Family

Jordan & Zach Finley

Emma Clyde Hodge Memorial Fund

Ms. Marie D. Jacobs

Robert & Ilene Jenkins

$9,999 – $5,000

Anonymous (2)

Susan M. Barrett

Estate of Carolyn R. Duncan

E. Reuben and Gladys F. Grant Charitable Trust

The E. Walter Hausstette

Charitable Foundation

Johnston Family Fund

Mrs. Sima K. Needleman

Robert & Mary Otto

Mr. Joe A. Strickert

Tina & Gary VonderHaar

$4,999 – $2,500

Anthony J. & Claire Bardol

Blueprint4SummerSTL

Mr. & Mrs. Hugh B. Kaplan

Drs. Dan & Susan Luedke

Carl & Ellen Maddox

Mr. & Mrs. Scott Monette

Scott & Rhonda Schmid

$2,499 – $1,000

Anonymous

Eileen Alm

Janet Goedeke Anglin

Carol & Peter Benoist Family

Natasha & Amanda Boekholt

Daniel P. Brinkmann & Alysia A. Brinkmann

Jane Cook

Darwin Chambers Company L.L.C.

Michael Deem & Elizabeth Ickes

Donna Denning & Tim Miller

Mr. & Mrs. Arnold W. Donald

Katherine Erutti

Edes Gilbert

Carol Keller & Fred Michaelis

Ms. Maria A. Murphy

Dr. Stanely J. Niemann

Trudy & Keith Oberbeck

Frederick Pitzman Fund

Stephen & Kristine Sneeringer

Estate of Karen Strobach

James & Jean Terry

Mrs. Marjorie H. Tomaso

Tracy Family Foundation

James R. & Mary C. Walters

Ann Welker Nelson

$999 – $250

Anonymous

Melissa & David Abrams

Ernest & Barbara Adelman

Laurie Alexander

Debra Bagley

Estate of Barbara Bottini

Jill Cabeceiras

Ms. Lisa A. Caplan

Michael & Marilyn Cassidy

Mr. Parker B. Condie

Raymond & Joyce Costello

Rosalie & Robert Cuca

Mrs. Mary de Compiegne

Larry R. Garcia

James & Elizabeth Goldring

Dr. & Mrs. Jay Haines II

Suzanne & Jim Johnson

Mrs. Pat Kiesel

Daniel & Jean Kleypas

Mrs. Robin M. & Dr. Michael J. Kraujalis

Dorothy & Lawrence LeGrand

Dr. Lisa B. Ring & Mr. Greg Storch

Rick & Sarah Ryan

Linda Saligman

Nathan Schlatter & Deborah Ludden

Lisa M. Sinden-Gottfried

Roger & Peggy Steinbecker

Curtis & Mindy Voelkel

Webster Groves Lions Club

Sarah Wilson & Lou Stemmler

Charles & Patty Wiswall

The Saint Louis Zoo Development Office regrets any errors or omission of any gift.

If you would like to change your honor roll listing, contact Katie Meyers at meyers@stlzoo.org.

Tribute Fund

Donors providing the Saint Louis Zoo Tribute Fund with gifts of $25 or more from May 1 to July 31, 2025, to honor or memorialize events and loved ones include:

In Memory Of

William H. Baker

Leticia Cantu

Margaret Baldwin

Suzanne & Jim Johnson

Ms. Laurie W. Miller

Melanie Bircher

Mr. Charles H. Hoessle

Dr. Terry L. & Mrs. Carol L. Moore

Patte & Fred Zinn

Raymond Bockskopf

Mary C. Feldmeier

Christopher M. Carter

Steven P. Bueg

Jill Cabeceiras

Ms. Catherine M. Glavin

Hannah Ha

Heather Keener-Gaddy

Karen A. Mulroy

National Association of Letter Carriers Branch 343

Sherri L. Parker

Mrs. Brenda L. & Mr. Keith A. Roever

Susan Zavaglia

Carol M. Duhme

Ann Welker Nelson

Mary O. Graf

Deborah Kent

William Gray

Wayne & Diane Locklear

Tayler L. Hansen

Anonymous

Melinda Senick

Lois A. Hart

Frank Faraone

Merry & Jim Feeney

Mr. & Mrs. Scott R. Finley

Renee A. Hardy

Renee & Tim Kozeny

Donald E. Long

Stephanie & Harry Staggs

Donald Stauffer

Sue Ittner Voorhees

Mr. & Mrs. Randal Paniello

Susan C. Jackson

Joseph & Susan Jackson

Jean R. Kluge

Laurie Alexander

Glenna Streif

Mary Ann Kurowski

Paula Baumgart

Alan & Jeannette Nissenbaum

Robert Edward Lee Lamkin

Suzanne E. Bowman

Donna S. R. Grunik

James P. Limbaugh

Rick & Sarah Ryan

Lynn L. Sullivan

The DuBose Foundation

John R. Mier

Christine A. Laughlin

Karen Oerly

Othello

Daniel & Jean Kleypas

Michelle Pepe

Jessica Paradise

Karolyn J. Paradise

June Reames

Susan & Duane Thomas

Jack Schneider

Dwight & Linda Roberts

Janice K. Watson

Rich & Brenda McCall

Karen Yavorsky

Carol Keller & Fred Michaelis

Dorothy A. Zoellner

Dana Y. Barker

In Honor Of

Mrs. Barbara C. Archer

Ms. Lisa A. Caplan

Lori A. Sullivan & G. Todd Rogan

Scott Bernstein

Kevin M. Hepler

Steve Blake

Debbie Beardslee

Bob Brendel

Kathleen & Terry Donovan

Mrs. Marilyn K. Brown

Judith Barnett

Mr. & Mrs. Neil Schechter

Morgan & Davis DeVries

Kathy DeVries

Mr. & Mrs. Mark A. Graham

Scott & Rhonda Schmid

Ms. & Mr. Barbara Hammond

Dana Fulton

Liam Hogan

Ellen Streicher

Judy Kouchoukos

James & Leatrice Virtel

Phoebe McFarland

Amy & Doug Dove

Bradley Prosser

Patricia A. Prosser

Penn Rao

Calvin Gebhard

William Schultz

Dana & Ron Redwing

Debra Bagley

Ellen Schlanker

Mrs. Carol E. Carlson

Dr. & Mrs. Nicholas T. Kouchoukos

Mrs. Jacqueline R. Shillington

James & Leatrice Virtel

Mrs. Ellen W. Svenson

Sheila McCarthy

Mr. & Mrs. H. Nelson Spencer III

Lynn S. Yarger

Allison Velez

Rachelle Lawrence

CAN YOU Help THE Penguin FIND HIS WAY TO HIS NEST?

Humboldt penguins are found only along the rugged Paci c coast of Peru and Chile. About half the entire Peruvian Humboldt penguin population lives in Punta San Juan, Peru. These birds nest in guano, which is poop! Sadly, they face many obstacles in the wild. Can you help the penguin nd his way to his nest?

Sneak past a shark!

Get caught in commercial shing net.

Dodge a sea lion! MOVE UP A SPACE GO BACK A SPACE MOVE UP A SPACE GO BACK 3 SPACES

MOVE UP 2 SPACES

One Government Drive

St. Louis, MO 63110

POSTMASTER: send address changes to stlzoo, Saint Louis Zoo, One Government Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110

CHECK IF APPROPRIATE:

MY NAME IS MISSPELLED.

MY ADDRESS IS INCORRECT.

I RECEIVED MORE THAN ONE COPY.

I NO LONGER WISH TO RECEIVE stlzoo.

Please clip this address panel and mail it to us, noting your request.

Address Service Requested