PORTLAND, Ore. -- The Oregon Zoo has pledged its efforts to support an unprecedented new initiative called "Saving Animals From Extinction," along with 228 other zoos and aquariums in the U.S. and seven other countries.
The effort kicked off on May 15, the 10th Anniversary of Endangered Species Day.
"Our zoo's mission is to inspire our community to create a better future for wildlife," said Oregon Zoo education curator Grant Spickelmier. "Endangered Species Day is an opportunity for zoo visitors to learn about the importance of protecting endangered species and everyday actions they can take to help them survive."
The SAFE program currently has a $2 million budget, with the support of partnerships including Frito-Lay. Wildlife experts will collaborate to identify factors threatening the animals, and then develop action plans to restore healthy populations for these 10 species in the wild:
- African penguin
- Asian elephants
- Black rhinoceros
- Cheetah
- Gorilla
- Sea turtles
- Vaquita (a small porpoise)
- Sharks and rays
- Western pond turtle
- Whooping Crane
The initiative is set to continue for at least a decade and each year, SAFE will add 10 more species that face serious threats into the program.
"Worldwide, passionate individuals are dedicating their lives to fighting extinction, resolving human-wildlife conflict and protecting habitat," said research and conservation manager Nadja Wielebnowski. "Every visitor that walks through the Oregon Zoo's gates helps in these efforts, whether it's through the 25-cent admission surcharge, supporting responsible palm oil or becoming a wildlife partner."
Of the roughly 230 species of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish and invertebrates living at the Oregon Zoo, more than 50 are endangered or threatened.
On Saturday, May 16, the zoo will recognize Endangered Species Day with special events and educational activities. Some exhibits will also include animal feedings and enrichment:
Here is the special zoo event schedule for Saturday:
· Black bear enrichment - 9:45 a.m.
· Orangutans palm oil station - 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
· Bear Animal Talkers - 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
· River otter enrichment - 10:45 a.m.
· Sea otter feeding and keeper talk - 11:30 a.m.
· California condor keeper talk - 12:15 p.m.
· Chimpanzee feeding and keeper talk - 1 p.m.
· African wild dog keeper talk - 1:30 p.m.
· Penguin feeding and keeper talk - 2:15 p.m.
· Hornbill feeding and keeper talk - 2:30 p.m.
· Bat feeding - 3 p.m.
