Why Can't The Orangutans Get Something New Made For Them?

I haven't been to the Zoo in almost a month.  I also haven't heard of any changes to the Orangutans environment.

I never found the drawings I made, that I referred to in my previous post.  I did find some photos of examples of what I was thinking would have been, or still could be, a great option for Middle Grotto.  

I also made a new drawing, although the other one I actually input into a photo of the grotto.  And, yes, I know I'm no artist!  I'm a visionary and fixer!

The Triple Grotto status is as such (for those who haven't followed along)...  After the Orangutans being here two years, modifications were made to North Grotto, to facilitate the Keepers being able to access the enclosure  island.  That is it.  There was nothing new done FOR the Orangutans. ...  Middle Grotto received the same modification, and also saw half the old structure removed because of deterioration.  That is it. ... As of my last visit, the Orangutans still only had access to the North Grotto. 

The Keeper Staff did an excellent job at utilizing hose and hammocks on the existing structure in North Grotto.  They have always done the best they can with what they have. The point is, this enclosure could have been so much more, if the Zoo Director had a conscience and put some effort into the well-being of these Being's she wanted so badly to bring here.  There should have been funds in place years ago, as her plan was hatched before she tried to kick the Chimpanzees out in 2015.  The Director surely won't like my words, and will possibly retaliate because of them, but those are the facts she created and there is no other way to describe Ollie and Amoi's situation since coming to the San Francisco Zoo.  They had no dedicated outdoor space for two years.  Ollie spent eight straight months in the caged tube.  The whole situation is disgraceful.  AND yes, their names are Ollie and Amoi, not "Berani" and "Judy"!

In that previous post, I noted that I realized long after publishing, that the Orangutan Update before that was incomplete.  No idea what happened, but what didn't save was a whole idea I had for Middle Grotto.

The idea was based on tree like structures similar to that image.  The grotto islands are not sizable by any means, so as is, obviously can't have too much done.  That doesn't mean do nothing, which is what the Zoo has done.  Orangutans need vertical space to climb, and stretch.  Taking down half a deteriorating structure is lame.  The whole thing should have been removed and something new built.  Why is it so hard to give these Beings, something new of their own?  

Using Stumps and branches from around the Zoo, a nice vertical tree structure could have been built.  I posted a photo of a "sling-shot" stump across from the northeast end of the Pachyderm Building that would be a perfect base.  If Animal Care Staff thinks its a good idea, there is no reason not to build them something new.  I floated the idea to a Keeper and was told it would be good and would work for them, but that the Zoo would say, no money.  As stated,  using material already there, the only cost would be for hardware to hold it together.  I also asked someone in maintenance if it was possible to build something like that and they said yes.  

Gardener and Landscape Artist Patricio recently built this.  Maybe he and maintenance can build something cool for the Orangutans. 

Previous Post:

http://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2021/08/will-orangutans-languish-in-pit-as-is.html

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Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

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Why is Zoo Management Still Taking Risks With The Chimpanzees?

This was not my next planned post in draft, but... If I only get to publishing one post this weekend, it had to be this one. 

I've been trying to write this post for a couple days.  It's been brewing in my mind for months, so it's not a new issue, just a tired one.  

As I sat here last night ready to start, I got side-tracked by an article that was posted to Twitter by the SF Chronicle. ... "Bay Area counties urge vaccinated people to wear masks again as delta variant tightens grip."

No Shit! was my reaction, and I said it outloud, with a disgusted chuckle.   I knew this would happen.  Telling people they could discard masks was irresponsible.  As well as the extra vulnerability in stores now, this allowance has seemed to increase an already bad no-mask situation at the Zoo, specifically at the Chimp yard.

What I'm about to write for this blog post, about the Zoo's Covid Safety in regard to the Chimpanzees, is entirely based on thoughts and facts before yesterday's news.  I will note that news just confirms even more, that there needs to be stronger attention to protecting the Chimps.  Contrary to what the masses of asses across this land believe, this Pandemic is not over, and as long as the word Variant is in the News and on the loose, the Vulnerable need to be Protected.

It was March 9th, a week before the 2020 Shutdown when I first wrote about my concern for the Chimpanzees, and Orangutans when they were using the Chimp yard.  Apes can catch the same things as Humans, and with the perimeter fencing very close to the yard netting in several spots,  I felt they were very exposed in that exhibit.  

I heard that during the Shutdown, the path around the Chimp Yard was closed to non-authorized staff.   When the Shutdown was lifted, I expected it to still be closed.  It was not, and I was pissed.   

Why would Management open that path to the public, when it was not even open to most staff?

From my observations, there was nothing in place to protect the Chimpanzees and Orangutans.  There were no barriers to make sure people were kept at a distance from the fencing, and there was no signage, noting that these Apes who share our DNA, are vulnerable, and reminding that Masks were mandatory at all times in that area. 

I wrote about the Chimps vulnerbility and yard exposure five times (mar 9, aug 11, aug 14, nov 29, feb 21) since the start of the Pandemic.  Using the mandated guideline of six feet distance,  everytime someone stands at that fence unmasked, that in some places is less than five feet, I'd say even less, and one of the Chimps is sitting there, they are vulnerable to being exposed.  Factually, aerosol particles can travel up to 27 feet, so the whole area is a problem.  I used this graphic in one of my posts. 

My concern has never stopped.  During the first few weeks, I waited for something to be done.  Finally at the end of week three (after reopening), I talked to the Head of Safety.  I expressed my concern, and questioned if anything was going to be done to protect them.  I suggested a plastic barrier running the length of the perimeter, especially in those really close areas, either acrylic, or more cost effective sheeting.  He said it was being talked about.  Talked about while they sat out there, day after day, with people breathing on them?  Not good enough, but it never is.   I suggested signage at both ends of path, stating masks mandatory, that they share our DNA and are vulnerable.  He said, good idea, going to write that down, and literally pulled out paper and pen.  I'm sorry, but there are alot of people there, making alot of money, doing a whole lot of nothing on many fronts.  This situation could be a life and death one, and a member of the public has to approach them about it?  

So, a few days later, the start of week four, and I arrive at the yard, assuming I'd at least see some signs, and I see nothing.  Unexcuseable.  The Zoo has computers, color printers and laminators, there was no reason for there not to be signs, frankly by the end that day I suggested it.  I'd have had a sign there within the hour.   But here we were four weeks later after reopening, five months since the start of the pandemic and nothing.  

I blogged and complained about the perimeter fence issue what seemed like endlessly.  Then a ridiculous attempt at sheltering the most vulnerable place in the fencing went up.  You can read about that in other posts, I'm only mentioning it here for the timeline and to note that finally a few weeks ago, after staring at this thing for almost a year, I realized, it was not meant to protect the Chimps at all. 

Week five I arrived to see two signs, written by the Ape Keepers, hanging on the fencing.  Their words echoed what I suggested, and I was happy for these, but still felt more could be done.  The next week, these signs were gone.   Management had taken them down.  I blogged and asked,  Why?  I still don't understnad this action.  

Why would the Management of an Animal Care Facility, remove something that was acting as a deterrent, helping to keep these Beings safe?  

I suggested in a blog post, that they put some of the circles they had at other exhibits, at the yard.  The red circles did appear, but in the only place in the Zoo, they are half circles and placed right at the fencing.  Why couldn't they be full and placed back a bit?  The mind boggles.  

No further attempt to protect the Chimps and Orangutans was made as we headed into the second shutdown.  The Zoo was closed for two months.  During that time, the San Diego Zoo Gorillas contracted Covid.  When SFZoo reopened, the path was still open and there was no signage, no barrier around fencing.  Unbeleivable.   Then four weeks later, this sign appeared. 

I haven't written anything against this sign.  In reviewing the post I made about it, I can't believe I didn't express my actual thoughts.  I must have been delirious from the effort of there being a sign at all.  So, let's talk about that sign.  First, and I've said this before, the Zoo's signs are too wordy.  No one stands and reads wordy signs.  I think long-winded info is great, but in addition to short and to the point.  I have no idea who writes the text for the signs, but geez, it's always a miss.  Why is the lead buried?   I get why eating is mentioned, but wearing a Mask is the lead.  Also, if the sign plainly said,  Mask wearing at all times in this area, it's unnecessary to mention eating. 

This sign should have looked like this, along with a Stop Sign and Mask Graphic.  Would have added myself but my current photo editor doesn't work that way.

Last year they had a sign along the entry line, that simply said, Masks Are Required While Waiting In Line.  Why didn't the Chimps get a simply worded sign last year?  Even this newer version is configured better than the one at Chimps.  Why? 

There could have been a long-winded sign posted to the fencing along the path with the other signage.  In fact over a year later, there should be. THAT is an educational point that should be made.  ... A few weeks ago I thought it would be a good idea to put Mask Graphics at multiple points along the fence.  The other day there were graphics about World Chimpanzee Day placed how I imagined the mask graphics could be. 

Other signage I've seen online that is simple ... Signs like this should be at all areas where Masks are required.

Oh, and not simple is this newish sign at entry ...

No one is paying any attention to this one.  People on skinny paths wearing no mask as they walk right by.  People in the Chimp Dayroom wearing no masks come and stand right next to you.  The sign should just say, ... Masks Required In Some Areas.  Please Adhere To Signs.  Please Mask and Distance From Others When Six Feet Not Possible. ... People don't always read signs to begin with, they aren't going to read a novel as they enter.

A couple more notes about the plastic barrier idea.  So, it was never done to protect the Chimps, yet it was done at the Train to protect Humans.  I even saw some draped over the Bird Aviary at the Puente recently.  There's obvious value in using plastic sheeting as a protector, so again, Why not for the Chimps?  

Sixteen Months later, in my opinion any effort  Zoo management has put forward has failed.   The Chimps are vulnerable every minute they are out in the yard.  That is Irresponsible and Dangerous to their well-being.

With the Delta variant is on the loose, and others will surely follow, there is still a desperate need to protect the Chimps.  The Zoo has been packed, even on the weekdays that I'm there.  People from out of the area are visiting, some don't even bring masks into the Zoo.  The week before last, I ended up at Chimps later in the day than usual, and I asked no less than forty people in ten minutes to wear a mask.  That number is not exaggerated.  

Unfortunately, there is a good percentage of people who want to challenge the Mask requirement.  They are obnoxious, and argumentative.   One guy even asked me if the Chimps were Vaccinated because maybe he can catch something from them. ...  Digressing for one second, since Oakland Zoo was in the News recently for vaccinating some of their Animals.  I personally would never suggest this, as just like with people, there could be side effects.  I had a reaction that has lingered, and would not want that to happen to a non-Human Being who can't communicate what they are experiencing.  And with our Chimps being Seniors, that is something to consider.  That would be on Animal Care Staff to decide, not any member of the public.   That guy was way off base even questioning it.

The Zoo makes no attempt to deter this behavior, other than with that sign.  There is a Docent at the exhibit on Mondays, who tries to do her best.  She is only there a few hours, so its a free for all the rest of the time.  I have heard Keepers repeatedly ask people to put on their masks.   It is not the Keepers job to monitor the crowd.  The Zoo short staffs Keepers to begin with, and they have to be security as well?  Their job is to take care of the Animals.   The Zoo needs to staff that area at all times with Docents who are wearing the Safety Monitor Badges they had last year.  When that isn't possible, there is no reason why Security can't station there when they aren't on a call.  There seems to be two Security Guards in the Parking lot and frankly, the Chimps well-being is more important than Humans and their Cars. 

Bottom line, that area needs Signage and Monitoring.  When the later isn't available, I think the path needs to be closed.  I previously suggested and used this photo, the placement of metal barriers to keep people at a distance, while still be able to view the Chimps in the yard.  

There is no reason this can't be done.  Now that the Orangutans are in Triple Grotto, they are viewed at a distance. So viewing the Chimps outside at a distance for their safety, shouldn't be an issue. As well the Dayroom is open and the Chimps can be viewed close-up in there.

I had an idea this morning that I floated by someone to see if it was good to post or totally something that would not fly.  They said it was good, so at least one other person agrees. 

If the path was closed as pictured, but only to the general public.  That way it keeps the numbers down and filters out random visitors and out of towners, who I'd say make-up most of the no-mask offenders.  Members should then be given the opportunity to gain access by agreeing to remain masked (necessary as I've even seen Guardian Members with no mask) in that area, and purchasing an access wrist band (like those rubber ones) for say five bucks each, for themselves, family and friends.  The wrist bands are for easy ID from staff, as well the funds generated can go to Chimp Enrichment.   

Ok, I'm exhausted and anxious, as I worry constantly about the Chimps sitting at that fence possibly breathing contaminated air.  

It's your move, San Francisco Zoo. 

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Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

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Less and Less Space For The Orangutans - Another Triple Grotto Update

Not only is there less and less space, I have still not seen one thing that is FOR the Orangutans.

As with my previous post titled,  Disgust At The Triple Grotto Renovation - Our Poor Orangutans, I was not going to do another Orangutan/Triple Grotto update until this joke of an enclosure opened, but I missed something in that post that really needs to be pointed out.  

The situation is getting worse, and I'm not exaggerating when I say this makes me physically sick.  It's hard to even go by there, just looking at (or thinking about) it makes me want to cry.  Tears are welling as I type this, with visions of this sick plan and the life Ollie and Amoi will be stuck with in this disturbing offering of a home.

So, the only new thing for this week, is the prison wiring went up, to keep the Orangutans from accessing the roof of the night quarters building. ... Hard to see in this photo, but it looked like a few rows of probably hot wire, around the roof of the building.

Additionally, what is worse is something I never even considered was permanent, when I saw it last week.  The huge box that holds and I assume acts as a stopper for the skyscraper bridge, is there to stay.  It's obvious that it is permanent, but like I said, never crossed my mind last week, as I'm pretty sure I was distracted by the whole bridge and platform monstrosity. 

The box, which is in both grottos, looks to be about 3.5 ft square cube.  Not only are they an additional ugly-ass eyesore, that is alot of space being taken up when you think about how small the topical part of the island is to begin with.

To get an idea of how these boxes, even further shrink the topical area. ... The islands are outlined.  They are approximately the same size as one quarter of the Chimp yard, as shown.  The red boxes on the islands show actual size, as the one that has two includes the twigging mound that is similar in size.  

It's hard to believe that this falls into any current aka modern guideline the AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) has for housing Orangutans, or any other Animal.  But it's also hard to believe that the AZA and their SSP (Species Survival Plan) breeding program would send the Orangutans here without a dedicated enclosure.   But, they did. 

Two years later and I would still like to know what transpired between the AZA/SSP and our Zoo Director to make that happen.  It's truly shameful, yet neither party seems to think so. 

That all said, I personally don't have any faith in the AZA doing the right thing in many circumstances, so I'm not entirely surprised.  I started a post in early December 2019 titled, Is The AZA a Questionable Leader In Zoo Animal Welfare?  It was born out of a specific situation, but that was just a culmination of too many questionable instances put forth by the AZA/SSP that I've either known about at our SFZoo or read about in other Zoos.  

My draft list had gotten too lengthy for me to ever have the energy or the time to get to, so I narrowed it down to what I felt most needed to be documented, and that AZA post didn't make the cut.   That said, there are some very relevant points that come to mind that I'm going to include in this post. 

The first time I approached the AZA with a concern, I was told to send it to the Accreditation department.  Note that anytime you contact them, they usually do not respond.  You put forth your concern and it either gets attention or doesn't, and you never know what, if any action was taken.  

After years of ignoring my shares via Twitter to them about the breachable barriers that put Animals lives at risk, they contacted me and asked for more information.  Yet, of course when I sent it, there was no response.  There was also no action, as those breachable barriers are exactly the same years later.

Barrier issues is just one issue point.  Other's include, transferring and/or housing of Animals, when in my opinion it's not been in their best interest.  This includes, like with the Orangutans, acquiring Animals that have no place to live or have been hoarded away to inferior housing.  

One example that was disgusting, is the Zoo housed Squirrel Monkeys in a concrete room, with no outdoor access for more than four years.  Either the AZA didn't know about it, or didn't care, but what is curious is that the Santa Ana Zoo got it's accreditation yanked for the way they housed small Monkey species, that actually had an outdoor area.  There just seems to be something not quite right with the things that are allowed to happen at SFZoo.

An article about the Santa Ana Zoo accreditation issue.  Noted in the article is the reasoning.  Here's a screencap. 

https://www.ocregister.com/2017/06/09/outdated-monkey-exhibits-lead-to-loss-of-accreditation-for-santa-ana-zoo-but-officials-have-appealed/

Yet, the AZA has no issue with sending Orangutans, to live at a Zoo that has no dedicated enclosure for them.  It will be interesting to see what they think when they see Triple Grotto!  Still outdated, and now surrounded in concrete. It surely is NOT modern!

So, I don't know what they consider good or bad. It seems to be fluid, depending on what Zoo you are.  We certainly seem to get passes in situations that seem disgraceful and in the current (yet, not only), case of the Orangutans, cruel.

San Francisco Zoo accreditation is this year.  Will the AZA think this shit-show at Triple Grotto is an acceptable housing situation for Great Apes in the the year 2021?

Related post and video

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2021/03/disgust-at-triple-grotto-renovation-our.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ykFLabiXrs

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Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

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ReOpening Update - Home For The Orangutans Finally Happening

I've written many posts about the plight of the Orangutans since their arrival at the Zoo in April 2019. ... Most recently right before the Zoo ReOpened.

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2021/01/new-will-2021-be-year-that-orangutans.html

In addition to hoping to see change in protection at the Great Ape Passage Yard (see previous post), I was anxious to see if there was anything new happening at Triple Grotto for the Orangutans.  

Like with my previous update, I had planned this soon after reopening, and just now getting to it.  Initially, there was just wood "fencing" around the perimeter.  That was taken down a week later to reveal a heightened wall.   That change in barrier goes with what the architect told me about the renovation basically being a project that brings the space up to code. 

Over the last couple weeks there has been an addition, that I couldn't quite figure out.  I was able to ask one of the workers and was told it will be a bridge to link the two grottos.  This still didn't look clear as of last week.   So, it's a wait and see.  I was also told there would be some structure additions, and that it should all be done in three weeks.

Looking forward to the finished project, though I'm not holding my breath for anything great.  I still believe the optimum use of space would have been to fill in the moats and net it over.  I felt that way even before the Great Ape Passage formed at the Pachyderm Building, but now even more after seeing how much Amoi the female Orangutan loves climbing the netting.  It's almost the only thing she does when she's in the yard. Open air with moat might have been an ok quick, inexpensive fix, if the topical space was larger to begin with. Hopefully one day with proper attention to fundraising something better can be done, with a net, wall, glass combo around the perimeter.  

As well I want that enclosure to look visually as modern as possible and flow with the two other new areas.  Unfortunately, it seems the Orangutans may be spending the next Thirty years on the same size topical area as the Chimps did.  Expanding the topical area should have been a priority. 

Google Maps Satellite view of Triple Grotto.  My Aqua outline is of the two grottos that are being renovated.  The outter ring is the perimeter barrier that has been raised.  The center ring is the topical area.  The space between the two rings is the moat.  The X is the are where the bridge is being built.

That all said, the priority at this point is to get the Orangutans into an enclosure dedicated to them as soon as possible. A place they have access to all the time, not just a couple hours a day, a few times a week.  Hopefully they will like it. I know I'll be happy to not see them sitting in the tubes, frowning while looking down at the Chimps in the yard.

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Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

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ReOpening Update - Great Ape Passage Yard Vulnerability

One of the main things I was hoping to see addressed when the Zoo ReOpened on January 28, was the vulnerability of the yard that the Chimpanzees and Orangutans share access to.  ... There was none.

I have posted my concerns and suggestions about this in previous posts. ... These are just two of them.

http://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2020/11/safety-update-why-was-covid-safety-sign.html

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2021/01/new-san-diego-zoo-gorillas-contract.html

My concern about this was heightened even more when a few weeks earlier it was reported that the Gorillas at the San Diego Zoo had contracted Covid. 

I was disappointed that the path around the yard was open to Visitors, when the Zoo reopened, after the SDZ situation.  There was still no signage about Ape Vulnerability and mandatory Mask wearing in that area. 

I had planned this update the weekend the Zoo reopened, but that didn't happen.  It's been almost four weeks, and just last week something changed.

I arrived on Monday and saw this sign.  

All I have to say is Finally!  About F-ing time.  Sorry, but that's how I feel.  The Zoo has been open near six months (five after first shutdown, and this past one).  Why did it take so long, to post something that protects the Chimpanzees and Orangutans?  Shameful. 

As noted in previous posts, I suggested this signage week three after seeing too many people removing their masks at this enclosure.  A week later, still nothing.  Then Keepers made their own, and it was taken down within a week.  Seriously, what is going on, that the Animals can't be protected in their homes?

In addition to Why did it take so long, there are also these questions...  Why did I have to suggest it?  Why did the Keepers have to make their own?  Why was theirs taken down?  Why is the path even open?

The last question is obvious, as noting that the Chimpanzees and the Orangutans are vulnerable, and in a sign that size, the Zoo is showing they are aware there is a vulnerability issue.  So, in light of the San Diego Zoo situation, now more than ever, that path should be closed. 

Everyone who knows me, or has read this blog, knows I love my Chimpers.  I more than anyone, want to be able to visit them as close as possible, but their health is priority.  I would be just as happy viewing them from farther back, knowing they were the safest they can be.  

There is no reason barriers can't be put at a distance from the yard fencing.  You can see in these photos, there is plenty of viewing available at a distance from the entrance side.  There would just have to be very limited viewing parties at a time.  Unfortunately no one Social Distances anywhere in this town, and the Zoo is no different.  Path width shouldn't be a factor or excuse.  

Approaching path to yard.

pointing to dayroom window

on left

pointing to where barriers 

could be set

view from that point

On the exit side, the metal barriers could be moved up the path closer to the enclosure.

Additionally, there were two of these signs, and one was at the yard path.  If there's only going to be the two, one needs to be at the Exit side, as people use that as an entrance all the time.

The second thing I addressed in previous posts, was about the distance vulnerability, between the Apes and the Visitors.

I suggested a barrier of clear plastic, which wasn't done, in favor of curiously using mesh.  I note this as the first day back, I noticed clear plastic was used at the Train, to apparently shield Visitors in line from those exiting.  

So, clear plastic can be used to protect Humans, but not to protect the Animals in their care? 

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Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

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New > Will 2021 Be The Year That The Orangutans Get A Home Of Their Own?

This post was started months ago, after the Zoo had  ReOpened from it's first Shutdown.  After weeks and weeks passed, and other construction projects restarted, there was still no sign of any work being done in the Triple Grotto Exhibit for the Orangutans. 

I have several Construction Update posts, but this one has been bumped as it flows from the previous one.  It was always the first in the series, as it is a constant irritation that like with the Chimpanzees for so many years, the Orangutans needs have taken a back seat to everything else.  

During the five months the Zoo had been ReOpened, the construction for the Snow Leopard expansion was in full swing, while nothing happened at Triple Grotto.  Then, a  few months ago I saw the architect going over plans with the construction guy in front of Triple Grotto.  When they were done I asked her about the project.  

Previous information was that only the North Grotto would be included in the project.  There would be no netting, no new structures, basically no new nothing.  After talking to her, it seemed like much of the same, with the exception of including the Middle Grotto.  All other work seemed to focus on bringing it up to code.  Except for the addition of the Middle Grotto, this was all a let down, but whatever gets the Orangutans into a space of their own as soon as possible, the better at this point.  That said, I asked how long the project would take.  The answer is shocking.  Maybe a couple weeks.  

It's unconscionable that a project with so little work being done, that could conclude in a short amount of time, was back-burnered while the Snow Leopard project moved forward.  

It is disgraceful that the Orangutans were not only allowed to come here by the AZA and SSP, without a dedicated home in place, but that they have been here Nineteen Months in virtually the same situation as when they got here.  The exception is that they now get access to the Chimpanzee Yard four mornings a week.  

Ollie and Amoi, November 2020

It is curious that the Triple Grotto exhibit has been left empty for two years, since the Chimps moved into their new space.  The Great Ape Passage, was supposed to be multi-phased, the Chimp Dayroom, Chimp Yard, and Triple Grotto for Orangutans, with the option of rotation once all three areas were complete.   Positioned next to the Cafe, Triple Grotto in my opinion is a focal point in the Zoo and again, it's curious that work there has not been a priority.  Not having this project done before or soon after the Orangutans arrived is a huge fail to both the welfare of the Orangutans and the Zoo aesthetics. 

Last Saturday, January 16 was Appreciate A Dragon Day. Many Zoos were posting about their Komodo Dragons.  It made me think of our passed Falcor, who was one of my besties.  I loved that guy and championed for his life to be better.  Unfortunately, he was brought to the Zoo under the guise of a temporary home, with a new home within a year and half.  It took near five years for him to get the home he was promised.  His situation broke my heart every time I visited him.  

When I think about the things at the Zoo that aren't right, Falcor's situation has to be the worst.  Sadly there have been others, and in 2019, the Orangutans became the latest victims.  

In a post from September 2019, I even noted, suggested and questioned that the South Grotto could have been done with minimum, so the Orangutans could have their own space, at least until the Zoo got it together to do the North, and now Middle Grottos for them.  

screencap from post 9.2.19

Just awful that wasn't done before they got here.   It's cruel that they didn't have a space of their own, and I think they suffered because of it.  Thankfully the Animal Care Staff is great and has done everything they can for them under the circumstances.  Amoi, the female, has always been comfortable, but it's taken Ollie, the male, some time.  The last few weeks before the current Shutdown, I watched as he spent more and more time in the yard and on his own.  So happy to finally see him comfortable and gaining confidence.  Something he probably would have had from the start, had they had their own space upon arrival.  As it should have been. 

Having no designated space, even a year plus after bring Orangutans to the Zoo, continues to be a disservice to both species.  Enclosure guidelines for Seven Chimpanzees mandates the space size of both the Yard and Dayroom, that is why there are both spaces.  The high energy of Chimp Society dictates that size need, so each Chimp can find a corner to retreat to.  Without it, there is the probability of more unrest and injury.  Those two spaces were never meant to be shared.  They were meant to allow rotation between three spaces, yet the Zoo has failed to provide the third space.  Both species spent long periods of time, months, shut out of areas that they should have had access to.  The Chimps out of their yard and the Orangutans out of everywhere.

It's unreal that I still need to write about the same thing as a year ago.  But here we are.  Here they still are.  

photo used in post 12.15.19

Maybe by Christmas 2021.

Related posts regarding Orangutan situation

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2019/11/hot-topic-posts-chimpanzees-and.html

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Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

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New > Even Bernie Wonders Why the Orangutans Have No Home Of Their Own!

By now everyone has probably heard about Bernie's Mittens and seen at least one Bernie meme editing his image from the Inauguration in various places around the World.  

Last night via the Bernie Anywhere Generator, the outspoken Defender of Rights made a stop at our San Francisco Zoo.  

By this morning, Bernie's force had broken the Internet so to speak.  The Generator is no longer working, as it's popularity turned it into another victim of Greed.  These days, money grubbers are killing all they can, just to put a squeeze on the regular folk.  All the bullshit of the last year and foreseeable future, and Google has to strangle the guy who gave us some fun.  UG. 

Anyway, I had worked on another one of those dang posts in draft, that I planned for this weekend.  Instead of finishing it, this seems like the perfect time to work on and hopefully finish my long overdue Orangutan Update.  

As I like to make all posts stand alone, the update will include a recap of Ollie and Amoi's history at the Zoo, and where they stood on getting a home of their own, as of December 6, the last day the Zoo was open before the current Shutdown, over Nineteen Months since their arrival at the SFZoo.

Update: Generator is back up!  If interested here is the link.  

https://bernie-sits.herokuapp.com/?fbclid=IwAR0uQR1RneExczAXnp_PfcQprAlmR8f0vyO0eT6B0gsUBK6FfWHLnh1ssX4

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Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

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San Diego Zoo Gorillas Contract Covid - SFZoo Animal Safety

Monday was a heavy day for me.  Had a few long conversations about Zoo stuff, including the information about the ICU capacity percentage that is dictating when the Zoo can ReOpen.  Then I heard on talk radio that the ICU number dipped below 1%. Then the news report that the Gorillas at the San Diego Zoo had gotten Covid.  Then that one of the Zoo's most valued (in my opinion) Animal Care Staffers was leaving.  It was alot of bummed out stuff in a short period of time. 

When I heard about the Gorillas, my mind went to three things.  First, sadness that these poor Beings had contracted this virus.  Second, that having them infected, may make Zoos even more vulnerable to ReOpening.  Third, my feeling that our Chimpanzees and Orangutans are in an enclosure that has put them in a risky proximity to the public the whole time the Zoo was open.

If this is the first you've heard about the San Diego Zoo Gorillas, here is a screencap of information from the article linked below it. 

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/jan/11/gorillas-san-diego-zoo-coronavirus

Let's all send some good thoughts their way.  Pray that they all recover without any complications. 

I have long complained that Zoos are not categorized appropriately and are not included with other outdoor facilities, like our Botanical Garden.  Why? has been a legitimate question.  I still think it is, but now wonder if State Officials won't use this transmission incident as yet another reason to keep Zoos closed.  If there is indeed a risk factor of transmission From the public To any Animals, of course their safety should be the top priority.  It would seem that is something each Zoo would have to identify themselves based on the enclosure distance and barrier type. 

As I mentioned our Great Apes enclosure is something I've written about a few times. I need to reiterate previous concerns as they are more valid now than ever.

This is the most recent post regarding the subject. 

http://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2020/11/safety-update-why-was-covid-safety-sign.html 

The above link is pretty comprehensive, so I'll try to make this as condensed as possible.

The barrier fence around the yard is varying distances from the open air fencing.  At some points, it is definitely less than six feet. When news of the virus broke in early March, I was concerned about people breathing on the Chimps, as they often sit right at the fence.  When the Zoo shutdown a week later, I was told that the path around the Chimps had been blocked off, I assume to all staff who didn't need to be in that area.  When the Zoo reopened, I expected the path would still be blocked.  It was not.  Not only was it open, no adjustments to shield the vulnerable portions of the fencing had been made, and there was no additional signage to indicate the Apes (Orangutans also use the yard), were vulnerable to Covid, indicating visitors needed to be masked at all times, especially in that area.  I complained in person and in blog posts.  I relayed that a barrier at the very least in the most vulnerable point, and Covid Vulnerable signage, were needed.  A flimsy shield did go up, but no sign, until a couple weeks later when Keepers put their own. That sign was taken down, allegedly by management. The Zoo was open just over four months, and every day people with their masks off gathered in front of the fence while the Chimps sat against it, unprotected.  

In light of this awful news from San Diego, I am even more furious that my concerns were not taken seriously.  It is very upsetting to think our Chimpanzees and Orangutans were left vulnerable for who knows what reason.  

When the Zoo does reopen, I hope better precautions are taken to protect the Chimp yard, and All Animals that have barriers where people can be at a distance of less than six feet.  Even six feet in my opinion isn't enough, if we are going by the documented aerosol travel distance of up to thirty feet.   One guideline I saw recommended six feet if both are masked, thirty if unmasked.  There aren't many enclosures that allow less than six feet, but special attention to the Chimp yard,  Snow Leopards, and Bobcat, should especially be taken into consideration as both Ape and Cat species have been infected.  AND if the Chimp yard path remains open, which I don't think it should, they really need to have a clear barrier, plexiglass or plastic sheeting, that goes around the entire perimeter, not dark mesh in one portion.  AND the Covid Vulnerable Signs are a must at both entrance points.  It's outrageous that this even has to be said.   

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Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

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Lifting Some Weights On This Last Eve of 2020

Yesterday I had the thought to write a year end post.  Not really about what's happened at the Zoo this year, but more about my feelings and where I am with blogging. 

I had planned to once again get to all my posts in draft done by now, at least a few before this one, but that didn't happen.  It will happen soon, I can feel it!  But, if we have another year like this one, that soon may not be til 2022!

I didn't make notes on this, so I'm just writing what flows out.  2020 was, to say the least, challenging for most of us, in different ways.  While my most cherished out of the house activity, going to the Zoo, was taken away for too long, even being back there, was not without frustration. Thankfully there are the Zoo Friends.  I think one of the biggest issues, was not about what's happening, or not happening on the grounds, but the lack of ambition there, that seems to be the only way I can describe the months of missed opportunities for fundraising and outreach, to not come out of the place.  There are those that still think I'm the enemy of the Zoo, when in actuality, I'm probably one, if not the only person who has constantly had bettering the Zoo, on my mind daily for over eleven years.  I continually added ideas, most that would raise funds, to my notebook during the first shutdown, wondering why the Zoo wasn't doing anything.  It's frustrating, especially when you can literally feel the gain and not just financially from these ideas.  The Zoo continually cries poor, so why aren't there things being done?  There should be creative ideas coming out of the place. The top seven salaries at the Zoo amount to over a Million Dollars.   At the very least, Why aren't those seven people coming up with ideas?  

So before attempting to think about this post, I thought I should sort out all my thoughts from the last year. I'm a list maker by nature, so I make notes constantly.  I use the Facebook Messenger as my portal, then I transfer them to a notepad document and sort into subject.  It's very time consuming, and after fourteen hours yesterday, I'm still not done and losing patience.  For those (yes there are some!) who think I live and breathe to write "bad stuff" (actual quote!)  about the Zoo, I don't.  This is not fun for me.  I continue to put myself through the upset of it, because I feel strongly that things need to be documented.  So here I am in hour seventeen, and I just paused sorting, as my mind went to this post, and if I didn't go with it, it might not get done today.

Part of what prompted this post, was this literal time and place in what's happened at our SFZoo, or rather what has not happened.   

A few weeks ago, I came across this photo from one of my blog posts and I thought, disgraceful that the Orangutans are still in the same place as they were exactly a year ago.  There is NO excuse.

I have had an Orangutan update to do since the first shutdown re-opening, so I wasn't going to add more to my load by writing another to complain about the Orangutans situation.  Then it happened.  It's like they can't help themselves.  The Zoo uses Amoi in a Holiday "ad" and outrageously uses words that refer to "home", when the Orangutans still don't even have a HOME of their own.  I would say, How dare they, as that's what I thought, but in all seriousness, how do they think that's ok?  Do they think that no one notices that the Orangutans don't have a home?

I want to note two things from this year, in reference to what the Zoo obviously thinks is ok.  Someone sent me something during the first shutdown, that I wasn't going to use even though I found it just awful.  Then, in the wake of the Maki kidnapping, awful happened again, and I was going to use that in a post, and then, per usual, I got behind, and then adding another post about about another awful thing just bogged me down.

So, this was the first thing. As I said, sent to me, someone pulled from Director Peterson's Twitter account.  Wasn't going to do anything with it, but considering the shame of the Orangutans still not having a home, it's appropriate.

There is nothing " norm" about not providing a designated home for Beings in your care.

Considering that the Orangutans were brought here over a year and a half ago, and that the only outdoor access the male had for eight months was the Skytrail, this is disturbing.  This is mocking the situation.  I get the distancing gag, but to use a shameful housing situation you created in a comical way is really bad.

It's a possibility I will be retaliated against for my opinion in regard to posting this.  It wouldn't be right and it wouldn't be legal, but its happened before.  ...  One should expect, if something is public, there will be opinions.  Voicing them is not a crime, it's in fact a right in this Country.  I'm not forcing my opinion on anyone, just saying how this and other things I write about make me feel.  Not only that, in general if someone says or does something, that reflects them, not what others opinion of it is.  So if they're confident with it, it shouldn't matter what anyone else thinks.  Lastly, I talk to alot of people, Friends who are Members, Staff, non-Zoo invested people,  I get other people's opinions on things I have issue with.  I'm not alone with how these things, and everything I write about, makes me feel.  

The second thing, was this.  

I get that its a fundraising thing, but I think it's in very poor taste to use Maki's traumatic experience in this way.  They aren't creative enough to come up with other ideas, so they pimp out this poor guy's kidnapping?  I can't even with this lack of conscience.

Additionally, I was under the impression that the Madagascar project was fully funded by the Board Member who wanted it.  Allegedly, Seven Million Dollars was donated and considering the long list of other things that the Zoo Animals NEED ahead of this vanity project, not a penny more should be spent.  I'm not unreasonable, and I understand, plans and costs are fluid, but then you have to make the decision to rework them to fit the budget.  Not ask for more money, for an already extravagant WANT Not NEED. 

Note that I'm not against a Lemur expansion, although with our exhibit allegedly being the largest in a North American Zoo, I don't think its a necessity.  That said, I didn't even think expanding the Lemurs was part of the original plan.

I have several blog posts about the Madagascar project, dating back three years as of this coming February.  It actually encompasses most that I think is problematic at the Zoo.  I think the procrastination writing it is based in that.  There's just so much to say.  

In fact most of the posts are the same ones in the queue from the closing of last year.  2020 has basically been a wash.  Other than the Orangutans still not having their own home, not many huge new irritations, that aren't Pandemic related.  So wrapping things up isn't that upsetting, they are the same things I've been sitting on a year plus.  It's that they are still issues a year later.

So, while I didn't know what thoughts would flow as I wrote this post, turns out, I've been able to lift a few thought weights, which is much needed.  

Wishing (most) everyone a peaceful and safe New Year.  

Please do the simple things that will help us all see a less scary 2021.  

Cover your cake hole.

Don't get up in other's space.

Sanitize after touching shit out the house.

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Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

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The World Lost A Gem Today - Former Keeper Passes Away

Tears still streaming as I heard not long ago that my Friend John passed away this afternoon.  I sought out John Alcaraz in 2014 while doing research for the Cobby Movie.  Lucky to have found him.  Thank you to my Friend Lila for the introduction.

Some of you may remember John from the News piece done during my Chimp Crusade.  John was our Senior SFZoo Chimps first Keeper.  He worked with many Animal species there, primarily Apes, and LOVED his Orangutans. 

People still ask me about him.  He was a big part of the Zoos history, so I wanted to share this tribute with those who knew him and for those who didn't.

We talked by phone often.  I learned from him every conversation. Such a smart and beautiful Soul. He welcomed me into his life, sharing stories, I'll always cherish.  He had a full and interesting life.  I always wished he had gotten his adventures down on paper.   He turned 94 in April.

An article John shared with me, highlighting some of his amazing work with the San Francisco Zoo Great Apes.

Below are photos he shared with me of his Orangutan Family.  I owed him some photos of the Chimps new home, and like so many things in my life, I never got to it.  I feel like shit for that.  I talked to his spirit after hearing the news.  Hoping it will take a trip to the Zoo with me to see our Chimp Friends in their new home, that he helped me champion for.

This man was a Gem.  The World could use more like him.

RIP my dear Friend, lovely to have known you.

John and his Orangutan Family

photos courtesy of 

John Alcaraz

John sits with young Oliver among the trees and reads to him. It was taken during the Trees Project, developed by John, which allowed the young Orangutans to play in the trees in the back of the Zoo near Gorillas.

photo courtesy of 

Lila Talcott Travis

Oliver now lives at Birmingham Zoo and is the mate to another former SFZoo Orangutan, Lipz.  They have a Daughter Nairi.  Their story is a beautiful thing. 

SFZoo Re-Names Koala "Burnt Earth" Whaaat?! & Other Naming Disrespects

When I wrote my last post, Oakland Zoo Bans Single Use Plastic.  Why Wasn't SFZoo First? dated 2.23.20, I noted that two things had come up the weekend before.  I wrote about this, the second thing, in part, but then got bummed out and stopped.  I finished it the next day but didn't have time to proof read it.  By the end of the week when I did have time, I got word that one of my Farm Friends passed away, and with that sadness and respect for her, I didn't try do any zoo related writing last weekend.

RIP Mole, Bless Your Soul Beautiful Lady.  I Love You and Miss You.  Hope you have a wonderful afterlife with your Sheep Family who I know are with you.

So, the second thing...  As I finished the Plastics post, I was on a semi-roll with working on draft posts, and then this happened.

I knew this was coming, as the Zoo was running a fundraiser to send funds to Australia to aid the fire victims.  That said, anyone who knows me or has followed this blog over the years, knows the Animals Names are one of the things that really affect me.  The Re-Naming of Animals that already have names, is one of my biggest issues.  Disrespectful or awful names just make it worse.  This is sadly both.  

As I read the name reveal, Cobar, meaning Burnt Earth, I felt sick. This little guy is now been re-named after a tragedy and must carry it around for life?  While it seems by their wording that they think its clever, its just not.  Its terribly disrespectful and sad.

I literally shutdown and just turned to watching movies for two days to try an not think about. ... It took me as long to ask friends what they thought, just too make sure my personal feelings about the subject weren't isolated.

I know I am hyper-sensitive to everything involving the Animals.  I don't see that as a bad thing.  We can surely use more people who are.  Since I seem to carry a stigma that my opinions are not shared by others, I thought I'd share the comments made by a few friends.

I didn't want to influence anyone's opinion, so all I wrote was, "The Zoo Named a Koala.  I have strong feelings about this, anyone else?"   These were the replies...

You can see they also attached a second name, Wollemi, that had a much nicer meaning. Why didn't they just go with that?  There is no need for a double name and this name at least does not carry the drear if a tragic event.

This little guy came with a name. A cute name. A name he knows.  Hopefully the Keepers will still use it and it will remain his official identity in the Studbook.

The re-naming of Animals is out of control.  It's like an obsession to strip every Animal of their Identity.  It used to be only to raise funds,  which always begged the question, Why can't they think of other ways to raise funds?  Though, in recent times, there hasn't even been money attached to re-naming, just happens for the heck of it.  There does seem to be random meaning behind some of the names, but that doesn't make it right.  Re-naming the four Chimpanzee additions, and the two Orangutans, was unnecessary and disrespectful.  To my knowledge only one had money attached.  That one, is Qadeer, who is now named Gombus, which is literally another name for the southern dish Gumbo.  He is named after food. I guess we can be thankful Big Daddy wasn't attached to it, like poor beloved Falcor who's name translated to Big Daddy Language (Bahasa).

I'm sure the next victim will be Kimani.  In case you missed my earlier post, Kimani is the new female Gorilla.  The Zoo has yet to even mention her, even though she has been here for several months.  Anyway I digress.  Kimani, like many Animals, especially Great Apes and Big Cats, have fan bases who like to keep up with their journey.  Once the Zoo inevitably changes her name, that will make it hard, for those who knew her since she was born. Thankfully this re-naming nonsense wasn't around decades ago, or no one would even know our Cobby's (Chimpanzee) history.

Here's a couple clips of Kimani from my cell phone.  I haven't uploaded camera files in over two months.  Once I do there will be more!  So, subscribe to my YouTube for alerts.

Welcome Kimani!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=caRCpAapNGw

Monifa and Kimani - Bluff Charging
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0a0dV0fp_E

This is turning out longer than I intended.  It's one of those subjects that set me off on a roll.  So, let's now talk about the Snow Leopard Cubs, who will be two in June and have never been given official names!  What?!   So it seems, when the rights to their names were auctioned off, the people who won, never submitted names.  Seriously, I think its time they are given names, and those names should be the ones the Keepers gave them when they were babies. Those should be their permanent studbook names that they carry for life.  They obviously know those names, and it seems like the logical thing to do.  At least to me.

As for the names with money attached.  I have said, there are more creative ways, one being a sign at the Animals exhibit saying their care is sponsored by,...  That recognition goes further than naming.  If naming must happen, and its a re-name, the Animal should retain its original name and be the name the Keepers use, not change it altogether.  That is not only disrespectful but awful for training purposes.  If newborns, give Keepers guidelines, and those names used.  If re-named, should only be used for public purposes, which unfortunately hasn't been what's happened for some.

Then there's this kind of nonsense.  The Ballplayer names really irk me.  I've written about it before, as we have too many Animals re-named after sports people. Poor Tucker the Hippo has had two names.  Belozi the Black Rhino, Raj the Snow Leopard, several Monkeys, one of our Goats, and now another Goat.  In my opinion, the only purpose it serves is to get some media attention, if one of the local teams happens to do good.  The disrespect isn't worth it.  

Again Zoo resorts to re-naming because there is no other creativity.  Thankfully the name is not the players full name, but "Wonderkid" isn't a good name either. 

Speaking of our Goats.  Get this crap.  I'm standing at Chimps and three people very close to me are talking.  I hear the guy on the end say, "... he's ugly"  They were standing in front of Cobby, so I was on the edge of livid.  Anyway, he then says, "Fat and blue eyes", making hand gestures I knew it wasn't Cobby, but I knew who he meant.  Once I saw a Staff name tag, I couldn't let it go. I had to confirm.  He walked away and I went after and light-heartedly asked him if he was talking about a Goat.  He laughed and said, "yeah, they named one after me".  I asked his name and he said Vitus.   Then he proceeded to direct me to the Farm.  I had never seen this guy or knew his position.  I asked around and was told he was the VP of HR.  All I can say is Wow!  It's shameful that an Employee of the Zoo would make fun of any Animal.  

Photo I made for a tweet.

Blaise is very Handsome!

That all said, there is other bad naming going on.  Even some Keepers give disrespectful names.  One of the Birds is named Cookie.  That was her name when she came here.  She got a mate, they named him Monster.  Awful.  Their babie is named Crumble.  There should be some guidelines, and names not given as jokes or in spite, as was also recently done.  Unconscionable!

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Blogger's Statement
"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."
For Full Statement see this post:
https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html
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