This Week At The Zoo - Fun and Fails

I experience things that make no sense, but aren't something to make a whole blog post about, so I just shake my head and move on.  Sometimes I've written posts and just tacked on off topic irritations and curiosities, in fits of frustration.

Sometimes I want to share a Zoo Friend experience, but I usually never get that far unless it's a whole post subject like a new resident arrival.

So before I get into a couple things (fails), I'll share a couple Animal experiences (fun) from the week.  

Don't think I've ever seen Claudia the Condor eating.  So this was different.  

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=fF575Arp8CQ

I had some lovely face-to-face time with two Kudu Ladies in the creep area (a small area often fixed with branches to create an area that only certain sized animals can access) where our precious Duikers used to hang out.  

https://youtube.com/watch?v=qpBLwBYoMRU&feature=share

I don't get down to the Donga often, I maybe do that loop once every few weeks.  I wanted to see the new mural in tunnel leading to it.  The mural is beautiful, I love Mosaics.  I must admit that every time I see artwork and gardens, while I think they are nice and needed additions to the grounds, it does rub me the wrong way that money is either spent or donated for these installations specifically, when there are many Animal Needs that arent fulfiled.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=xaelKduD9Jc&feature=share

I had decided to do the Donga loop around the Savannah to get to Gorillas so to get in some extra walking.  Just short of the end, the loop was closed off and I had to circle back.  Tired and short on time, I never got to Gorillas.

Two things I asked Security about yesterday on my way out, have just come to mind and I want to document it, as I wasn't satisfied with the answers I got.  It's not on Security, but on the Zoo to just do better.

So, the Donga loop closure.  I mentioned it to Security, noting there really should be a sign at the start of the loop, noting loop does not go through.  

I asked if that's something Security could have done.  I was told, it's (sign) on order.  Needing signs in the moment has come up before and I've noted before that the Zoo has a Computer, Printer and Laminator.  A sign can be made in a matter of minutes.  There is no reason to let the need go or order something fancy for that. I was told people complain about signs not being nice?  Who complains?  And if they were worried about how such temporary signs look, they got a sign made as I've noted can be done, on the stupid $15,000 water station.  I took this photo not for the sign, even though it lent to this issue, but because I still can't believe money was spent on this bullshit when people can get water for free in the cafe and $15,000 x 2! could have gone to Animal Needs.

In addition, by having no sign and just letting it go, someone with physical disabilities, intending to do the loop was forced to back-track around if they wanted to go to Gorillas, African Aviary and that side of the Savannah.  This is a Fail, the Zoo needs to do better.

If you read my recent post about Wolves, you know this is a fresh issue.  I will note that I probably wouldn't bring it up again, at least not now but considering that recent (?) sign, it's up to the Zoo to do better to try and make what their sign says happen.  This is another Fail.

So, from Grizzlies I heard screaming.  I see that a school group is gathered at and eventually fanned out along more than half the length of the Wolves window. When I got closer, I viewed and heard, not only screaming, but howling, banging in the window and chasing the Wolves (all of them were at the window) as they paced the perimeter.

Security should be giving more detailed Rule Talks to these groups and leaders.  Additionally Rules should be mailed when reservation is made and given on entry to the leaders, teachers and chaperones.  There is no reason the adults in this group should have allowed these kids to behave in this way at an Animal Enclosure. 

There is a head of Security and a head of Safety.  In my opinion it's up to these two people to provide Security with talking points that need to be covered.  I'm not going to make a list here, because that's what they get paid for.  They just need to do it.  

I shared my experience with Security, noting the interaction at Wolves last week as well and that I had written a post suggesting they put roping up.  I was told, an order has been put in.  In previous experience years ago with orders having to be "put in", it took months to get barrier poles replaced at Chimpanzees and Lions.  Hopefully things move quicker these days.  That said, in my opinion, not good enough.  This is happening on a daily, probably hourly+ basis.  In my opinion, if the Zoo cared to "protect" the Wolves in the goal stated on their own sign, they would temporarily put up something.  There has to be some rope some place in the Zoo, if not, I find no reason someone can't go to home depot and buy some. There is also the the yellow caution tape like seen in my photo above, "protecting" the mural. Depending on how it can be secured, and if there's no concern it could come loose ànd end up in the enclosure, otherwise there's always the movable metal barriers.  Allowing this to go on repeatedly everyday, is a Fail.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

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

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

History and Hope For The Mother's Building

Not sure how many readers have had the pleasure of viewing the inside of the Mother's Building, but the murals depicting Noah's Ark were a favorite of mine as a child, and up until it was closed.  I taped a 360 ° video of the room, being used as the gift shop, not long before it closed.  Wish I knew where that footage was.  

A three quarter view of the main room interior can be seen in this photo from sfchronicle.com

I miss being able to view that artwork and the mosaics at the entrance, especially the one of St Francis.  After the inside of the building was closed, the outside was still accessible for a time.  

Closing the Mother's Building was sad, because it's a significant part of the Zoo's history.  What has become even sadder is that it was left to deteriorate, with no apparent upkeep.  I value history, and letting it fall into dispair is shameful.  

Anyone interested in the history and mural/building restoration progress of the Mothers Building at the Zoo, give a view to the first eighteen minutes of this March 2023 video.

https://m.facebook.com/video.php/video_id=1006793866955797

I met the presenter, Richard Rothman at a Joint Zoo Mtg over twelve yrs ago.  He's been working since then to get the place restored and reopened.  He has a Facebook group, Friends of the Mother's Building at the San Francisco Zoo.  It was on his group I found this video.

I was prompted to revisit his group by a post on the Facebook group SF Ocean Beach: Fulton to Fleishhackers, from Mother's Day, that I just saw this weekend, thus this post. 

Coincidently, I very recently had a conversation with a staffer at the Zoo about the Mother's Building. I was told it was allegedly in shambles and the roof could cave at any time.  That would be the ruining blow to the murals.  It's always bothered me that the Zoo just let it go.  I hope that report is over exaggerated and there is still a chance it can be saved.  The City's Rec and Park Department should have taken an immediate interest in preserving this piece of history.  Shame on them.  Unfortunately, its not surprising, they take no interest in the Zoo, even though they are supposed to be a managing entity, they have proven to just not care about anything that has to do with the Zoo.  They can say they do, but their actions have shown they don't.

The person I was talking to didn't seem to think the Building had Landmark status when I mentioned it.  I did a search and found that the Mother's Building was indeed named a City Landmark in October 2022.  Hopefully this Historical status will aid in moving forward to repairing and restoring this iconic building.

There are many articles about the Mother's Building online, here are a couple reports about the Landmark status.

https://www.sfheritage.org/news/mothers-building-on-path-to-city-landmark-status/

https://sfrichmondreview.com/2022/10/11/mothers-building-at-sf-zoo-named-a-city-landmark/

As stated in my opening, the last thing this space was used for was as the previous gift shop.  Other media mentions, have included what future uses could be.  None seem appropriate.  I have always thought it would be a good spot for a Zoo History Museum.  Glass cases holding memorabilia, historical videos shown, etc. Coincidentially, in that video Richard Rothman mentions it being used as a Museum.  If it does reopen, I do hope it's used to showcase history.  Many years ago, I was aghast when I heard Director Peterson allegedly wanted to use it for offices if it ever got repaired.  Good Grief, that would really be a mismanagement of a gem like the Mother's Building.  I sure hope that was a myth and never happens.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

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

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Bringing Up Barriers, ... Yet Again.

So yea, bringing up unsecure barriers yet again, because doing so seventy times in eleven years just isn't enough to call attention to the necessity of additional precautions and deterrents.  I guess Zoo Director Tanya Peterson is ok with spinning the roulette wheel with the safety of our Black Rhino, Bears and Hippo.

Before I get into what prompted this post, I want to add in a thought I missed documenting in my previous post.

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2023/05/wolves-interacting-with-domestic-dogs.html

I noted that there was still the red (stay back) line from Covid safety and that was ignored.  My thought for this area is that a rope barrier should be added along that red line (which needs repainting).  Granted, a rope barrier would not have helped in this situation unless the Dog(s) were kept at a distance.  That said, considering not many pay attention to signage, which doesn't mean there shouldn't be ample, and the sign noting to "admire them (Wolves) from a distance, a rope barrier (I personally would choose red rope) would at least act as physical reminder for people to stay behind it and away from close contact with windows.

So, yesterday was the seventh anniversary of Harambe's death.  I was outraged when it happened and still outraged.  In my experience at our SFZoo and from media reports about other Zoos, neither Visitors or Zoos have learned from what happened to Harambe.  

I'll start by saying I hate media rehash of Animal tragedies.  There's always some words of opinion that rubs me the wrong way.  With this one about Harambe, it's the "imprisonment" notation, as well the hashtag "OpenTheCages".  These " Close Zoo" mantras are ignorant of reality.  Sure we would all love to not see captive Animals, but the reality is not only is the wild not the safest place for too many species, but the cycle of keeping captive Animals in Zoos can not just be halted.  Close Zoo Zealots do not think about what will happen to these Animals.  Most are captive bred, you can't just turn them loose to survive on their own.  Too many say, send them to Sanctuaries.  Obviously none of those people have ever taken a look at how a Sanctuary operates.  Sanctuaries are non-profit, meaning they rely on donations.  It's a huge cost to provide shelter, food and healthcare to each Animal they take on, something the Zealots forget that Zoos do.  And the biggest hurdle of releasing Zoo Animals to Sanctuary is space.  There isn't enough space in Sanctuaries for every Animal that is already in Need, let alone for Zoo Animals who are already being cared for.  

Sorry, I went off on a tangent that was not planned as part of this post, but someone replied to my comment on the Harambe post with this nonsense and I can't let it go without some words.  I wish these Zealots would just shut the hell up, and instead of spouting dangerous words, get off their asses and try to make a difference in their corner of the world.  Set their sights on their local Zoo and try to make a difference there.

The tragedy that happened with Harambe hit home with me.  I have probably spent more time at our SFZoo, than any one person not on staff, in the past fifteen years.  I have personally witnessed so many offences by visitors it's sickening.  The list is long, I'll spare you.  There is no way to stop humans from doing evil things, but there are ways to deter the stupid and self-entitled.  That is why I've been stuck on this unsecure barrier issue for over a decade.  It's the number one offense, and needs to be addressed, especially at Code Red (Dangerous) Animals.  

I went to the Zoo two days after the Harambe tragedy and people at Black Rhino and Hippo acting the fool, hanging their kids over barriers.  I'm sorry but people who do this are either dumb as shit, or so self-entitled they don't think an accident can happen.  Google Pittsburgh Zoo, Wild Dog.  

One Cincinnati resident commented that "The parent was soley responsible for their child's action, yet faced no charges."   You can not argue with that.  It's disturbing and disgusting, but what usually happens.

Unfortunately, I would guess there is no situation where a parent/caregiver of any child would be held responsible for their own negligence in a Zoo situation such as this.  In every Animal/Human conflict situation, the Human, no matter whether irresponsible, stupid, self-entitled, or evil, will always take priority.  Their actions will be protected, as will their lives. The Animals always lose.  It's just the way it is.  Even if a Human trespasses into an enclosure of their own free will, and there's contact, the Animal gets a bullet to the head.  

Would people care more, or be more responsible if they knew their actions put the Animals lives at risk?  Why don't Zoo's have signs that say,  Keep Our Animals Alive and Safe.  Stay Off and Behind Barriers.???

You can't sinister proof every Code Red Animal exhibit, but you can "accident" deter them.  So why not take every precaution to prevent that? 

I've gotten a bit off on my goal here, which is to again document that The San Francisco Zoo needs to add deterrents to the barriers at Black Rhino, Hippo (pool), Black Bears, and Grizzly Bears (grotto).  The railing just isn't enough.  

I complained countless times about the lack of barrier at the male Anteater's home, as did staff, but it wasn't until right before their accreditation inspection did anything get done.  What they did was simple, and effective, and should be (have been) done at the four Code Red Animals I have noted.  Why it hasn't is beyond me, and probably many staffers.  It's negligent and mismanagement.

The only alterations I'd like to see are less really short poles as there are still some who sit their kids on them, but the jagged poles do seem to deter.  As well the sign.  All the signs that indicate to stay behind barrier only, do nothing to deter sitting on, which is the biggest issue, and the one that can lead to accidental fall-in.  ... The signs should read "Off and Behind".  

As for the "charges" that commenter noted, unfortunately I don't recall hearing of any Zoo situation where charges have been made.  Good grief, not even the asshole who trespassed into the SFZoo, broke into an Animal enclosure, stole a Lemur, caused it mental, emotional and physical endangerment, received any repercussion.  He was let go and told not to go to the Zoo again.  What the serious F***!?  

In fact, WTF with it all?  Our San Francisco Zoo needs to fix these barrier situations I've mentioned, so none of our Animals gets killed because of human misbehavior.

 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

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

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Wolves Interacting With Domestic Dogs At Zoo

Before I get into the incident that happened this past Monday which prompted this post, I will start with the signage.  

So, when I walked past Wolves on Monday I got closer to this sign. I don't know how long it's been up, but I think I may have only seen it for the first time the week before.

While I'm all about signage, and have no problem with this, I think this is really curious especially since the Wolves have been here for over seven years.  I learned when the Wolves first got here that the Zoo was in partnership with the government wildlife department and that there were guidelines about a hands off approach to caring for them.  So, it was always curious that the enclosure was designed to have the walk-in area, as well as sixty feet of glass right at the habitat, with no visual barriers to break it up.

As well, starting from their arrival I complained in person and in this blog about people howling at the Wolves, yet it was ignored.  It took over three years for signs not to howl at the Wolves to go up. 

Anyway, when I circled back, I saw a guy with two Domestic Dogs in the walk-in area.  

This bothered me.  Not only is the same sign right next to him, and he like everyone else who disregards signage, gave it the middle finger, but in this particular case, the case of Service Animals at the Zoo, and the Zoo apparently takes no real stand on guidelines.  

Let me explain further.  Three other instances come to mind from previous years.   The first was a woman who wanted her Dog to have eye to eye contact with a Tiger.  The Tiger saw the Dog go by and ran to front of yard, stood on rock and was very interested.  The Dog saw the Tiger and wanted no part of it, yet the jerk owner dragged the Dog to the window.  The second, a similar situation in the Chimpanzee Dayroom.  I questioned this and was told it was ok and enriching.  Maybe that's a valid viewpoint.  In my opinion, especially with the Chimps, they are so sensitive to upset, I don't think chancing them get worked up and possibly turn agression on eachother is something that should be allowed.  The third, a woman at Snow Leopards let her small Dog roam free, while she was several feet away, while it went in and out of the bushes that bordered the fencing.  The Snow Leopard was stalking the Dog and if the Dog went to the fence line that situation could have been very bad.

I have also questioned in the past what the guidelines are for Service Animals, and have been told there are certain places they can't go, etc.  After this weeks event, I asked again and wanted to know what the rule was specifically at Wolves considering the signage.  I was told the same as before, specific areas can't go to, Bear window was one, but unknown if map had been updated since Wolves!!  What?  Not in seven years? Unbelievable. Well not really, but you know.   Anyway it's all noted on a map given to people with Service Animals, which I could not have.  So I'm left with only this as the written rule posted on the Zoo's website. 

This seems too vague to me.  There should be more rules.  In my opinion Service Animals should no be allowed within six feet of any Animal enclosure.  I would have said five but given Covid guidelines everyone should now know what six feet is.

So, Monday.  After the guy was in the walk-in area he went to the front.  You can see the red line from Covid safety still there, and it was crossed, by him with his Dogs at the window barking at the Wolves.  The Wolves were circling and both sides interacting.  As I got closer to film, people around were telling him not to do that.  You can hear me tell them to complain to the Zoo about this.  View my video here:

https://youtu.be/ojz_4_kP2iQ

The interaction to start seemed more curious on the Wolves side, so obviously not detrimental, yet still not following the rules as stated on the signage is an issue.  But then there's this that I captured.

Both the Wolf and the Huskey seem to have their ears down and the Wolf showing teeth. I find this completely unacceptable to have an animal on the defensive in its captive home.

Of course I called Security, but still this shouldn't happen.  Yes people are going to ignore rules and signs, but the Zoo also needs to have better and more specific rules in place.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

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

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Animal Updates - Facts, Comments and Thoughts - Including Jaguar Video

Have had this post sitting in draft for three days.  So, starting with this past Tuesday, since that's where I left off.  I have finally seen Tikal the Jaguar!  He is beautiful.  I got some nice video footage of him, here's the link to the first one.  If you're interested in more, check my channel there are three others, in addition to one of Raj the neighboring Snow Leopard.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=G72q0vPuffQ

When I got to the enclosure, Tikal was not out and I thought my fourth try at seeing him was also going to be a bust.  Animal Staff were about to enter the enclosure to put up some full tree branches to limit the visual vantage points between Tikal and Raj.  A friend who was there Saturday, said that she thought Raj was exhibiting upset about his new neighbor.  That turned out to be true and when I got there Monday, Tikal was off exhibit to give them both a break.  

Raj watching what Keepers were doing.

I was told he would be out after noon.  Came back round and got lucky!  He had just come out.  He walked toward the fence early on, and I said Hi to him.  He came closer and gave face-time, a few times, as well as rubbed his jaw on fence and chuffed.

He did seem focused on trying to view Raj. From Raj's side, there were still some vantage points, and it appeared he was able to catch glimpes, which kept him moving about rapidly for the most part.

Tikal tried to bug on the branches a bit to get to the window, but the set-up was pretty sturdy.  This and a bit of pacing at the fence line, but in general he seems very comfortable in his new home.  Curiously there was a purple cabbage on one of the platforms.  I was wondering, does this carnivore like veggies, or is it to play with?  Found out, it was the later.

Anyway, hope Raj starts to feel less stressed, because it doesn't seem like Tikal will be moving to one of the Cat Yards too soon.  Otherwise, maybe Tikal needs to move to FCC and the Twins brought back down.  

There are plans to modify a Yard for Tikal, as Jaguars are jumpers, but even if modifications are done, there is still the fact that a female Lion is on the way, and until introductions to Jasiri are successful, she needs an enclosure.  This of course could all have been avoided if we had more Cat Yards.  I previously wrote about the logic or rather lack of, in turning four Cat Yards into two.  Cats are sleeping or resting twenty hours a day, so only one yard needed to be expanded and used on rotation.  That would have left two single yards.  If we had those right now, there would have been room for both the new Lion and the Jaguar (Tikal).  The Snow Leopard (Raj) would not have had upset, and the Snow Leopard twins would not have had to move off exhibit.  I wish things were more thought out there, but it seems with the current Director, that is just never going to happen.  Literally a handful of fails just went through my mind as I typed that sentence.  Orangutans.  Madagascar.  Patas.  Tamarins.  Snow Leopards.  

Speaking of Orangutans... Last week, into this, there was maintence noise in the middle grotto.  By yesterday I saw a new platform added to the current structure.  That's a letdown as they already have a platform structure.  Why can't anything new and exciting be built for these friends?  When they had to cut down the current structure because of rust rot, I wrote a post questioning why they just didn't level it and build a tree like structure for climbing.  There is no lack of sturdy trunks and talent to build such a structure.  I noted ideas taken from my own imagination, as well as photos taken from searching my ideas and seeing similar in other Zoos.  Additionally as I stood visiting my friend Claudia the Condor yesterday, staring at the fabricated tree, I thought, why not something like this but taller with circular landing pads and natural branches?  

I just don't get it.  Why have the Orangutans seemed to be pin pointed to get the shit end of stuff?  It's really disturbing.  My heart continually breaks for them.

Speaking of Claudia, I had not noted her moving from FCC back to the main Zoo.  Happy to be able to hang-out with her every visit now.  She's been off exhibit over four years and I only saw her once during that time.  We had been besties since her arrival and thankfully that friendship has resumed.  Last week she was up on the tree and flew down to greet me.  Very exciting as I think it was the first time I've seen her fly and it was amazing!

Another feathered friend is also back on exhibit, Quetzal the Spectacled Owl is now in his new home at the Puente.  Zoo team did a great job renovating this area for him.  Happy to get to see him again regularly.  

Now if only they can find a space for Hercules the Great Hornbill. ... Also I'm not happy at all to report that Zabebu the White Cheeked Turaco has left the Zoo to a Private Owner.  He was a special friend,  always came to greet me, often with his beautiful wings out-stretched.   My friend Grace caught this greeting!  I miss visiting with him.  I hope he's happy in his new home.

Planned a Primate Center update two weeks ago but didn't get that far.   Heard these moves were pretty recent, but I didn't see them til a couple weeks ago.  It had been over a month since I last walked through the Primate Center.  I was surprised to see the acrylic boxes across from Sifaka occupied.  They were last home to the last Squirrel Monkey, and two species of Tamarin before that.  Good to see life in them again, even though used by more than one species seems too small to me.  That said, if occupying these spaces is happening outside of the ridiculous Madagascar project, Why were the Tamarins, and the Patas Monkeys for that matter, both transferred out?  That was a huge fail that left the Zoo without three Primate species for over five years now.  Any Zoo with little to no Monkey species is not good management.  

The new inhabitants are, one of the Sloths (the one that was in the Lion House), Red Footed Tortoise (last seen in Tropical Building), and Yellow Crowned Amazon Parrots.  The later were the ones rescued last year as ten-week old chicks, that had been confiscated from smugglers.  They were being hand-raised behind the scenes in the Tropical Building, and this may be their first time on view.  I hope these are temporary because the Sloth's area gets smaller with each move, and doesn't seem like enough area for Tortoise or three Parrots. 

Penguin Juveniles in Otter Pool.  Have heard this is temporary, and these yearlings will move back to the Island after the new hatchlings are moved off exhibit to fish school.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

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

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Tikal Photos! - Jaguar Enjoying His New Home

A friend of mine was lucky enough to see Tikal, our new Jaguar.  She let me share her photos. Thank you Grace!  Aside from one in the email newsletter, I haven't seen any of him in his SFZoo enclosure, so this is a treat!  I can't wait to see him myself!  

Hi Tikal!

She said, he is gorgeous, and was interested in seeing his neighbor Raj, the male Snow Leopard.  She was surprised by how much of his tail is missing.  I mentioned in a previous post, without going into detail that he and the female in Sacramento didn't get along.  What I didn't say, but will now be obvious, was that she actually bit his tail off.  I felt very sad for him hearing that. Poor guy. Thankfully he survived that attack.  

After seeing my friends photo of his tail, it's shorter than even I imagined.  The female really did a number on him.  I hope we don't acquire her.  He don't need to see her ever again, even through caging.

I also hope I never see a Jaguar tail being hauled out for education.  That would be in severe poor taste.  I've seen docents in the past stand right in front of the Snow Leopards with a tail, and it's disturbing.   Recounting that now reminds me of the time, the Lion paws were brought out and the cart keepers held it up so people could high five it.  It was disrespectful and horrifying.

Hoping I see him tomorrow.  I love him already and have affectionately dubbed him our sweet Bobuar 😊   

Check back here tomorrow evening, I aim to get video of him to share and if I do will link it here.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

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

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

New Lion News! - Jasiri's New Girlfriend Identified!

I learned two things yesterday that I couldn't share til I was near 100% sure about. One detail, had me busy last night compiling a list of female Lions who could possibly be Jasiri's new companion.  I had sixteen on that list.  After some research this morning on each one, I narrowed my list to four.

I just saw the Joint Zoo Committee Agenda for this months meeting next week. Based on that, I'm pretty sure I just confirmed this beautiful little girl from my short list, will be headed here, and hopefully soon.  Tears of joy are flowing, I'm so happy for Jasiri.  I can't wait for her to get here! 

Meet Lulu!  

The first thing I noticed when I saw her is that she's a blondie, like Jasiri and his Mama Sukari.  Her Mama and two brothers appear to have the light gene as well.  When I first saw Sukari, her stunning coloring stood out.  I saw her at a distance and thought she resembled a Mountain Lion.  One of her daughters gave birth to a white cub, though he eventually turned blond.

Lulu was born at Lee Richardson Zoo in Kansas, along with four brothers, on May 17, 2015.  Both she and Jasiri are eight years old this year.  It will be wonderful to see him have a companion his age to play with.  She has lived her whole life with her Mama and Papa, so I hope she won't have too difficult a time adjusting to this huge change.  

I'm sure Sukari will be resting peacefully once her boy is no longer alone.

I hope she can quarantine on exhibit in the C/D Cat yard.  Even though there has been conflicting information on whether the Jaguar will eventually move into that space, I hope the Zoo will hold off on that (and possibly acquiring a female Jaguar) until full introduction between Jasiri and Lulu is complete.  With limited Cat Yards, this seems the only way to allow Lulu a decent amount of space until she begins sharing A/B Yard with Jasiri.

I noted the Yards the way I did because it's the logical space for each, not because that's what the Zoo intends to do.  Jasiri and Sukari have lived in A/B almost exclusively for a year, I think he should stay there.  And, he does like the windows and heated rock.  I mentioned in a  previous post I hadn't seen him at the window in a longtime, but that's changed.  As for C/D, I think the straight across length of that space would benefit a species like the Jaguar more, as they are runners.  Anyway, just my opinion.

With all the new Cat news, will I ever get to that damn Madagascar post before it's fifth year in draft moves to six?

It's All Happening At Cats!

So, a week ago today I learned that the male Jaguar, Tikal was going to be temporarily housed in Cat E, the original Snow Leopard area where the Twins were living. The Twins have been moved to an off exhibit enclosure at FCC. ... There is still conflicting information whether the move truly is temporary, and he will eventually move into one of the expanded Cat yards, or whether E will be his permanent home.

On Monday I was told Tikal would be moved to the enclosure the next day.  Hoping to catch a glimpse of him, I went round on Tuesday, but learned he wasn't in quarantine as some staff thought, but on his way from Sacramento.  I finished a good walk round and went by in case he got there and was possibly let out into enclosure to stretch his legs after being crated and on the road.  The van was arriving as I approached, so I watched them unload the crate, and waited a bit, but gate never opened.  

Welcome Tikal!

There was an event scheduled that evening for donors, so I figured they were probably waiting for that, so to get a first glance.   On cue like that should not be depended on, and as such I heard he never came out.  

He also never came out the three hours I circled about on my walk round yesterday.  I tried, and hoped as the sun shined brighter it would lure him out, but it didn't.  I was told he came out in early am for a quick sniff of his new home, but went back to night quarters.  Can't wait to meet him, fingers crossed for next week!

I posted an update to a previous post when I got home Monday, as I had learned a few things, related to information I posted.

>> Updated 5.9.23 ... I have learned that while this pair was a breeding pair at Sacramento Zoo, their union was allegedly unsuccessful. This aligns with why only the male has been acquired by SFZoo.  So, I'm assuming maybe this pair is being split-up, and a compatible female is still being identified. <<

While circling the area, I was also unsuccessful in catching a glimpse of the new lady Ocelot, Tica.  I've hear she was only seen out once.  I read that she was not on public view in last two previous homes, so that explains her shyness.  Might be a long time before we see her.  

In encouraging news, it seems a companion for Jasiri could be happening very soon!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

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

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Update On Big Cats ... New Pix Of Jasiri

After my post last week about the Big Cat enclosures, I had an immediate after thought.  If two Jaguars are coming, and there is now only one enclosure, that possibly means one will always be off exhibit.  

I know nothing about housing of Jaguars, so I checked the AZA Care Manual and learned the specifics.

I inquiried with Sacramento Zoo how these two are housed, together or rotated.  Most of the photos posted by the Zoo and Visitors are of the female, which leads me to believe they do not co-habitate.  SacZoo never responded.

It's curious SFZoo would even get a breeding pair as longtime rumor is Director Peterson allegedly does not want to breed much, especially large Animals.  Who knows, but that definitely leads to never breeding Tigers Jillian and Teddy, therefore causing them to be transferred out.  As well, SF Received female Gorilla Kimani on a breeding recommendation and three years later she was allegedly still on birth control, although I have not inquired recently.  Our male will be 42 in July, what are they waiting for?

Back to Jaguars.  So, the ZooFest Auction noted in my previous post, included the item of ReNaming "our new Jaguars".  Someone told me they heard we would only be getting one, and another maybe later.  That aligns with the recent Joint Zoo Committee notation of only a male.

So back to what would the housing be if SF does ends up with a breeding pair.  Will one be stuck in the Lion House half the time?  Assuming they would rotate them both to yard every day.  If the female gets pregnant, will that arrangement still work until any offspring are able to go outside, or will the male be moved off exhibit to FCC as soon as she's pregnant?  Either way, he will most likely be moved indefinitely at some point.

I really wish more thought had gone into expanding the Cat yards and only one was done.  We need three enclosures, how Director Peterson didn't understand this is beyond me.  

Lion Jasiri remains alone, and allegedly no companion has been identified.  

I did recently see Jasiri up for a few minutes as I approached the enclosure.   It was good to see him in motion. ... This morning I saw photos from last weekends ZooFest.  The photographer got some nice ones of him.  I haven't seen him at the window in over a year, so these were a treat!   I have only seen him (and/or Sukari) on the A yard side once since the expansion, and that was only because of enrichment placed there for Sukari's Birthday.

screencaps from drewalitzer.com

Related Post

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2023/04/status-at-big-cats.html

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

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

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Status At Big Cats > Updated 5.9.23

As of two weeks ago, male Lion Jasiri was still alone, and the second expanded Cat Yard remained empty.  

Here is my post from last month regarding Jasiri.

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2023/03/concerns-for-our-lone-lion-how-long.html

At that time there seemed to be mixed knowledge of the future of Cats at our SFZoo.  Will they or won't they acquire a companion for Jasiri, which is my main concern, and another Cat species for the empty enclosure.

My take on the lack of information, is that it's rooted in the mismanagement cog that is the lack of communication to and among staff. I've asked this question on posts before and I'll ask it again, Why is everything a secret?  If upper management is actively searching for a companion for Jasiri, why isn't that common knowledge?  

That all said, it was pointed out to me last night that this appeared on the Zoo's Auction site.

I was surprised to learn this as the long-time rumor has been that the Zoo Director allegedly did not want to aquire anymore Big Cats and specifically Tigers after losing our Tigers to San Diego.  That happened as a result of San Diego owned Teddy being moved to SF for breeding with our Jillian, but after several years that didn't happen, so allegedly SDZ repossessed Teddy, taking Jillian with him, as both were very high on genetically valuable list.

As you can see, as with every Animal that moves to SFZoo, the Jaguars will have their identity stolen and be renamed.  I hate it, and that's no secret!

This is the female, Sasha. ... See Update at end of post.

screencap from 

Sacramento Zoo Facebook

This is the male Tikal.

screencap from Flickr user Elena

(who like me, is a fan of Zoo Friend history.

I've been following her for many years.

View her photostream, especially 

if you're a fan of Big Cats!)

I am looking forward to meeting these two beauties.  I've been a long-time admirer of this species, but never had the pleasure of meeting a traditional colored Jaguar.  The Zoo had a black Jaguar named Sabrina for many years who was a favorite of mine.

I encourage you to preserve their identity and greet them using their real names.

And now we wait for news of a companion for Jasiri.

Updated 5.9.23 ... I have learned that while this pair was a breeding pair at Sacramento Zoo, their union was allegedly unsuccessful. This aligns with why only the male has been acquired by SFZoo.  So, I'm assuming maybe this pair is being split-up, and a compatible female is still being identified.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

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

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Remember When Zoo Director Tanya Peterson Had "Deceased" Noted On My Membership Account?

If you read yesterday's post about my concerns regarding the Zoo's lone Lion Jasiri, then you know for the sake of time and energy, I've decided to abandon all posts that don't illustrate the mismanagement by Director Tanya Peterson.  The Zoo has been in a state of turmoil in so many different ways under her direction since she took the reins in 2008.   The list is long, animal welfare issues, not taking advice from animal care professionals, firing anyone who dares to differ with her (thus fostering a fear of job loss), and creating low morale among staff, among other nonsense that has left the Zoo circling the drain. The last two causing the Zoo to lose Animal Care Staff who were educated and dedicated to the Animals and the Zoo.  That all said, every notation still exists fifteen years later.   That is why I'm choosing to only document the fails.  

Fifteen years is too long for this continued downfall.  Our San Francisco Zoo will not last with Tanya Peterson as Director.  It's time to replace her before she ruins the Zoo any further.  

Yesterday I was searching for something on Facebook and this old post came up.  Usually this is not something I would think interesting for a post, but I thought to look at the blog for that time frame and there were a couple blog posts that contain so many points that are valid in today's discussion about mismanagement and fails.  

from my facebook

Yea the following thing was insanity.  They don't follow people tormenting the animals, but they followed me.  What a joke and waste of resources.  I also later found out they had a code name for me.  Literally laughing as I write this.  The absurdity of the energy Director Tanya Peterson put forth just to silence me from being a Voice for the Animals and speaking the truth.

You know I'm long-winded so these are just a few excerpts.  If you're interested in all the tasty bits, please read the full posts.

blog post from June 5, 2017 ... 

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2017/06/my-sfzoo-membership-revoked-agfacebook

blog post from June 12, 2017 ...  

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2017/06/sfzoo-whos-real-worst.html

This second post really should be read in full, my screencaps barely touch on all the mismanagement issues I documented in this one.  So many wrongs that were put forth in the first many years of Tanya Peterson's Directorship of our San Francisco Zoo.

The list of offenses continues to grow.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

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

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The Continuing Saga Of The Disgraceful Perimeter Fence

I wrote a blog post in August of 2021, so almost three years ago now.  It detailed my issues with the fence, how the Zoo (read Director Tanya Peterson) probably has no money to use on the fence, both because of no real fundraising and misappropriates funds when they do have them, like building pocket gardens everywhere.  I think the gardens are beautiful, but that is not the issue.  Thousands, and I mean upwards of several thousand dollars are spent on each one.  I've bought garden supplies, my guess would be some of those gardens have cost close to $8,000+  This is an Animal Care Facility and any extra funds should go to Animal Needs before the Directors Wants.  With that in mind, it's not surprise that the perimeter fence is not even a thought.   

At the time of that post I had noted that I my attention to the fence started two years prior, when I started parking farther up Sloat in some new spaces by the old entrance.  In June of 2020, I made a video that captured the condition of the fence in full, as well documented a fence being built around the perimeter of the Botanical Gardens, funded by the Rec and Park.   Since the Zoo falls under the Rec and Park Dept, I contacted the project manager to see if the Zoo would be eligible for a new fence, at least in the area where the fence in crumbling.  The guy asked his Manager and the answer was No, the Zoo needs to take care of it themselves.

The Rec and Parks middle finger to the Zoo is no surprise, as they are negligent in other responsibilities that involve the Zoo.  The Botanical Gardens is managed independently just like the Zoo, yet they got a new fence.  My only guess is because they are actually IN the Park, and the Park always makes sure their internal spaces look good (except for the Bison Meadow, which is only recently being tended to after years of neglect).   The Zoo gets shit because it's at the end of the world.  No one cares.

Anyway, enough backstory synopsis from the previous post.  That post covered other issues, so I have screen-capped my words if anyone wants to read in full.

Here is the link to the video I mentioned above. 

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=lB6-a5o1R-U

From then til now,  I have cursed the fence situation every time I pass by it.  It's shameful that the fence has been left to deteriorate to this point.  It makes the Zoo look downtrodden and like it's in a third world country.  I don't know if this is the original fence and pillars, but it looks like it, and it's definitely been breaking down the whole fifteen years Tanya Peterson has been the Director. 

My first visit of 2023 has the state of the fence even worse with a new issue, and the two following visits in February, leaving the fence is the saddest state yet. 

The new issue is out of control graffiti.  Obviously, the whole city is out of control with bad behavior, but something needs to happen here.  For those who haven't seen it, here is the video I made on January 8, 2023.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=jH0-9jA7ee0&feature=share

my pic of just part of the fence

At the end of 2022, I read about a new thing the city was doing.  Instead of previously holding building owners financially responsible for graffiti removal, there was a no cost program.  

When I saw the state of the fence in January, I emailed and sent photos to the Dept of Public Works in regard to this Abatement Program and asked if the Zoo would be eligible.  I got no answer.  I sent another email inquiring about a response.  Still no reply.  When I returned to the Zoo on February 13 and saw even more Graffiti, I called 311 and explained the situation and that I had never received a reply.  I asked if they thought the Zoo would be eligible.  They read through their info and said it seemed they would and they put in a service request, stating it would be cleaned in thirty days.  I asked if they would send DPW a message saying I would like a reply just to confirm the Zoo's eligibility status.  It's March 15th and as of two days ago, the graffiti is still there and I have not received a response to my inquiry.

Again, very poor of the City of San Francisco to not try and help a Zoo that they own, that is on City property, and that carries their name.  Once again, because the Zoo is so far from the geographical area that concerns them, apparently no one seems to care.

Now, for what the Zoo can do.  In my opinion, unless there's some valid reason, it looks like that whole fence line with the old wood and broken concrete pillars can come down.   There is a chain link fence behind it, and there are other points along the perimeter that only have a chain link barrier.  Personally it would have been nice if the Rec and Park had put a second barrier along the whole perimeter of the Zoo, of that nice fencing they put at Botanical Gardens, but I digress to a fantasy.  The chain link fence behind the shambles looks in decent shape.  They could add tarping to the inside of it, and a cinder-block type barrier at the exterior base to prevent dig holes. 

That all said, there also needs to be some attention to the perimeter that is at the side, where the fence turns into the Zoo.   I recently noticed this additional issue that I think happened with all the winds, the sand has accumulated to the point where a mound has formed and it's almost level with the fence.   That is breachable by human and wildlife trespassers.  That part of the fence and the line that extends into the parking lot, needs some inside worn tarping replaced.  And it seems it would be better on inside of fence??

See my video...

https://youtube.com/watch?v=nPnvON2Jbj0&feature=share

The Zoo needs to be presentable.  I maintain, attention to this issue could have been taken care of over the years, if Director Tanya Peterson cared or had any management skills at all.  Again I would not want money taken from the Animals Needs for this, but money already has with the Tiki Hut many years ago, and all the gardens since, not to mention other unnecessary crap in-between.  It all comes down to care and proper management, and unfortunately our Zoo lacks both. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

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

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*