Is The Rec And Park Using Toxic Chemicals In Park Lake? Tons Of Dead Fish Seen - Non-SFZoo Related

At this moment, I'm not even sure how to present this, but I feel I need to document what I witnessed, and the questions surrounding this issue.  So I'm going to just post all I know right now.  I'm posting to this blog as it my main forum, and I have posted regarding other Rec and Park issues here, most recently about the Bison Paddock.  Look to the end of this post for an update about the Bison Paddock sprinkler situation.

I visit both South Lake and Spreckles Lake at least once a week.  When I stopped at South Lake this past Friday,  I called to my Duck Friends to let them know I was there, as they come right over and like to have a chat with me. While waiting for them to paddle across the Lake to greet me, I noticed the Lake was a dark teal color.  This is not the first time.  I have seen this at least three times in recent months. The color looks like the disinfectant that is used in barbershop to sanitize combs.  That dark blue then mixed with green lake color.   It screams chemicals every time I see it.  When my Duck Friends arrived I bent down to greet their quacks, and saw a dead Fish.  

As I looked around the small area I was standing, there were nine dead Fish in an area six feet to either side of me.  This was different than the other times I had seen this color in the lake.  As someone who cares about all Animals, and who has an aquarium, seeing these poor souls belly-up is very upsetting.   

My thoughts immediately go to the chemicals the Rec and Park use to kill plants they don't want.   At this lake alone I have previously seen a sign on several occasions, in reference to pesticide use to rid the lake of the Parrot Feather plant, that they consider "invasive".   A few years ago I called the number on the sign and asked about the chemicals used and their effects on the Waterfowl and Aquatic Wildlife at the lake.  I was told it wasn't toxic to them.  

My thoughts also go to the killing of "invasive" Aquatic life in Mountain Lake Park, by the Presidio Trust in 2014.   I'm sorry, but I don't buy into murdering Animals because they are a nuisance.  Kill all the Animals and then it just takes one person to abandon another into the Lake and it starts over.  I find it barbaric. ... If you don't know the story here's a link to an article about them scooping up dead fish they proudly rid of Mountain Lake. 

https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Workers-pour-poison-into-Mountain-Lake-begin-5888355.php

So yea, I would not put it past the Rec and Park, who murders all the poor little Gopher Friends because they uproot the plants.  We have a ton of Hawks, Herons and Owls to keep the circle of life going without the Rec and Park pulling them from their underground homes and drowning them.  At one time, the Rec and Park used to relocate them to one controlled spot, but the guy who rallied for that passed away and with that the humane way to handle them died.   Apologies for digressing.

That all said, this water issue at South Lake looks like a chemical dump.   I documented it, as well made several calls trying to get hold of the department I talked to before, but with no success.   As I drove to Spreckles Lake, I saw a Park Gardener by the Bison.  I asked him the name of the department, and told him what I saw at South Lake.  I said that I thought it was due to chemical dump.  He just smiled, like I got it right but he couldn't confirm.  He then offered that they (the Rec and Park) will "say" it's algae, like they did at Spreckles.  This info infuriated me even more.  I was ready to write this post in a very angry rant that night.

I didn't get to it that night, and yesterday I remembered that I had seen and photo'd a sign posted at Spreckles a couple weeks ago.   Further thoughts raised more questions, so now I'm just putting those thoughts out there.

Several things to note about this.  

- I've never seen Spreckles Lake the color I've witnessed at South Lake.

- I've never seen Fish belly-up at Spreckles.

- There were Fish surfacing looking for food while I was there, so there is obviously a live population.

- I researched the bacteria mentioned on the sign, and the photos of this or any other algae related pollutants do not visually represent what I have seen at South Lake.

Now, if that is what the Rec and Park will claim, and I'm no professional, just documenting what I've witnessed, then Why has the Rec and Park not posted a warning sign there?

Additionally, the Rec and Park has known about the lead poison in the Palace of Fine Arts lagoon for over a year, and they have yet to post a warning sign about that.  The lead poisoning there caused the death of one of the Swans last year, and the one who survived treatment was selfishly put back out there, and now recent tests have shown she has  been reinfected.

So, in my opinion, the Rec and Park are negligent and selective with public service announcements in regard to contaminants, both natural occurring and at their own hands.

I worry for all the Wildlife living in and on these contaminated waters.   I also worry for people who don't know, who allow their Dogs to come in contact with these waters.   

What is going on with the water at South Lake, seems obvious to me, but again I'm have no confirmation on that.  Regardless, something is happening.  Whether that is natural occurrence or human inflicted, I don't know for sure, but I aim to find out.  One thing is for sure, the Rec and Park needs to stop using toxic chemicals in our Lakes.  There are too many instances for Animals both Wild and Domestic to come in contact with these toxins.  At South Lake in particular, they have been trying to rid that Parrot Feather plant for years.  Concede people, its not going anywhere.  Just go there and cut it down regularly.  Good grief its not brain surgery.  You don't always have to run and grab poison.

I left a message for Rec and Park, but have not heard back yet. I will update when I have new information.  If anyone knows about this issue, please leave a comment. 

Ok so for the Bison Paddock update.  My previous post noted once again the dried landscape issue.  An issue because Bison are grazers.   Well, I posted last week that I saw the Bison back in the main meadow and grazing on the one decent patch of greenery.    Friday, what do I see?  

I see five sprinklers on in the back meadow!   I have never even seen those sprinklers before.  Curious though none in the front.  Anyway, I don't believe in coincidence. ... I asked the Gardener I stopped about the dead Fish tragedy, about the state of the meadow over the past few years.

- He said, the sprinklers were broken for some time. ... 

( In my opinion, two things about that.  I've seen sprinklers only one time, if ever.  Were they broken for years? )

- He said, they are on timers.  I asked if those were daily timers?  Noting that I wanted to come check on them regularly so would like to know when they go on.  He didn't know, but said not daily.  

-He noted the water restriction.  I pointed across to the lush green lawn by the Blossom Trees.  He laughed and said, yea that's a different section.   Basically noting that section gets delegated more water than the section the Bison Paddock is in.  ... Note that this dry meadow has been an issue for years, long before water restrictions.

SO, that proves my theory that the Rec and Park prioritizes their recreational and ornamental areas, and does not give a crap that the area where grazing Animals live, is flush with lush green landscape for them to GRAZE on!   It's Cruel.

 

  

Petition: Governor Newsom - California Zoos Need To Open!

So yea, I still haven't let this situation go.  The reason for not allowing Zoos with a safety protocol in place to re-open is just not valid.

I have now made a Petition.  The Zoo Visitors of California should have a place to be heard.  We can't show our disapproval in mass physical action, like the beach goers, so I'm putting forth a louder voice than just this blog.  Will there be enough others to make any difference, who knows.  I often stand-alone, and I'm ok with that, as long as my voice is out there. 

I've done all the research I can on the situation.  I've shared all the information I have. I wish I had been in on the Lottery someone posted about on Twitter, that allowed select Members into the Zoo over the past few weeks.  It would be good to be able to document the safety protocols the Zoo has in place.  Ufortunately, even in a lottery, I am not someone they would select.  Therefore, the Zoo should take the opportunity to do a video or post photos, showing the changes that will be in place, once they are given the okay to re-open.  It would not only show Officials what they have done, and how they are going to monitor to control the environment, but also let Visitors know what to expect ahead of time. 

Below is the Petition Description and Link - If you're inclined, Please Sign, Share and ask others to do the same.  Any Zoo Staff interested, note that Signatures can be done using "Name Withheld"

 

 

https://www.thepetitionsite.com/243/675/497/governor-newsom-california-zoos-need-to-open

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Added for label purposes...
California Zoos include:
San Francisco, Oakland, Sacramento, Happy Hollow, Fresno, Folsom, Santa Barbara, Santa Ana, Living Desert, Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego

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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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Advice To The Zoo To Seek A Re-Open Timeline Amendment

I have been further researching the situation outlined in my previous post, that being the logic in the San Francisco Re-opening Timeline that was put forth by Mayor Breed on Thursday.

You can skip to new information below in the highlighted paragraph.

To re-cap, per that Timeline, the Zoo will not be able to open until mid-August.  I find that to be unreasonable, since the Botanical Gardens and other Outdoor Museums are allowed to re-open by mid-June, two months earlier than the Zoo.

I have to imagine that Zoo Officials are not happy with this either, loss of revenue as the main concern.  Not being able to be open, especially during the most trafficked time of the year, will definitely put a hardship on the Zoo.  Reduced revenue, will be an issue moving forward anyway, as there will be a limit to daily attendance.

I have been a supporter of all the Orders during this Crisis, so this is not meant to be judgmental toward Government Officials. That said, since week one, I have been increasingly irritated by those who have not followed the Orders, who have been allowed to not follow Orders and/or been exempted from them, and the lack of enforcement.  After the behavior of the masses over the Memorial Day weekend, I have to wonder, Why there is even a Shelter In Place Order, since clearly the masses disregard it?

In addition to my above issue points, the main problem I have with the mid-August re-opening date, is the Zoo's likeness to the type of facility the Botanical Gardens is.  That will be the basis of my position. ... It's also relevant to note that the Zoo has more space, wider paths, making it more capable of implementing distancing.  

Further research has shown that there is a concern for the amount of Visitors and from where the Visitors may be coming in from.  ... I understand that concern, but the logic is curious to me, as I again, note the masses that have flocked to the beaches and parks, The City is not monitoring where people are coming in from, or how many.   

Using the Botanical Gardens as my case point, ... 

The BG will limit the amount of Visitors, which is also part of the Zoo's re-opening plan. ...The BG does not make any notation in their re-open plan that it will monitor San Francisco Residents versus those from out of County, or even State or Country.  In my opinion, that does not connect with the same thought process of the concerns put on the Zoo.  It's just not logical to me.

Screencaps from 

Botanical Gardens site

Suggestion to Zoo Officials...

It might be in the Zoo's best interest to request an amendment to the Timeline, and suggest a tiered Timeline, such as:

Re-opening by mid-June to San Francisco Residents

Re-opening by mid-July to other Bay Area County Residents

Re-opening by mid-August to all Others.

This amendment compromise seemingly would not present any attendance issue, as the Zoo will be limiting number of visitors regardless.  What it will do is prevent further hardship that an additional eleven weeks would cause.

Related post:
https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2020/05/still-sheltering-in-place-what-does.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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Blog Comments to Post "Chimps Haven't Been Outside in Almost Two Months"

This post is to document comments made to my blog post
https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2019/08/chimps-havent-been-outside-in-almost.html

It's important to document the Voices of others, as it is often just my own ranting about Zoo Fails.

That post got the most individual comments of any post in recent time and because of the topic I wanted to post those comments in a stand alone post.  

Thank You to those who took the time to be a Voice for Minnie, Maggie, Cobby and Qadeer!  I appreciate your efforts.  To those who had trouble posting to the blog, thank you for reaching out and giving me your comments to post.  You can check the original post for my comment replies.

Apparently, commenting to the blog can be problematic sometimes. If you ever have trouble commenting, you can always send your words to me to post via the blog's About Me contact, or by Direct Message on Twitter ( leo811 ).  Note your words and user name, or if as Anonymous.  Thank you.

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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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My SFZoo Membership Revoked AGAIN!

So yea, once again I am, I guess, branded the Zoo's Worst Member.  If it wasn't so disturbing the ridiculousness of it might be comical.  And, once again I have been given no reason.

For those who don't know the story of the first time Director Tanya Peterson revoked my Membership,  you can read all the details here:  http://sanfranciscozoocrime.blogspot.com/

In short, Director Peterson sent my friend Lee, who had also been a Zoo Docent, an email accusing her of calling in a "false alarm" that resulted in a Code Red alert.  Further noting that her Membership was being revoked.  A couple weeks later, I found out my Membership was also revoked, but never received a reason.  This is in no way throwing Lee under the bus, but fact,  If I was to go off the reasoning given to Lee, since we were together at the time this "false alarm" was allegedly called in, then it had nothing to do with me.  I didn't make that call.  But, grouping us together was consistent with rumors that Peterson didn't like that we were that involved at the Zoo, that we had opinions, and suggestions, and frankly we were privvy to too much inside information.  I later found out that in addition to the "false alarm" untruths, Peterson had spread other untruths about me throughout Staff. Peterson's goal in revoking our Memberships, was to force us to pay per visit admission, financially limiting the amount of time we spent there.  It didn't.  ... I spent eleven months, writing letters to City Officials and the San Francisco Zoological Society Board Chairman.  Eventually we got our Memberships back and complimentary, which I read as an admission that the whole thing stunk.

In 2011, Lee and I had been the only people in the history of the Zoo to have their Memberships revoked.  Now, not sure if there's been anyone else, I doubt it, because there is a list of people who the Zoo watches, and one of them is a Member who continually feeds the Animals and goes into unauthorized areas.  She's been asked to leave a few times, and as far as I know, still is allowed to have a Membership.  So, this may make me the only person in the history to have theirs revoked twice.  

That brings us to today.  I share a Membership with Lee and another friend Michael.  Our Membership expired 3.31.17.  I renewed on my next visit, I think it was 4.4.17.   Our temporary cards were issued, expiring 5.31.17.  Today I went into the Membership office at the gate, as I had not received the hard copies yet.   The gal (I've seen her often but don't know her name),  said that there was a notation on the account that said, "deactivated, deceased".  I said what?  I was most upset by it saying "deceased", seriously?  I asked her if it said that under all our accounts and she said yes.  She pulled up each name and repeated it.  They called the Membership Dept and someone said they would be down.  Fuming at the "deceased"  notation, I asked this gal to print  it out because I wanted that documentation.  She went to ask someone and they said they can't do that.  They also couldn't take a photo of it, and when I tried to get her to repeat that's what it said on camera, she refused.  I made a pretty big issue of the "deceased" notation, which I frankly take as a threat of sorts.  That is no mistake, someone deliberately wrote that on each one of our accounts.  I'm sure the Zoo will deny this, but why would I make something like this up?  They have probably deleted in an effort to cover-up it was ever there. 

After waiting about fifteen minutes, I called the Zoo Main number and had them connect me with Membership.  The guy I spoke with Wes, said he would come down.  After several more calls and a total of forty minutes, Lamar and Nicole, Membership Manager, who I met for first time today, showed up.  Nicole introduces herself, shakes my hand (are you kidding me?), and then says, "The Zoo is "exercising their right to deny my Membership".  I asked why and she said all she knows is its based on "past circumstances".   I asked for more detailed reasoning, she said that's all she had.  So here once again is someone in a role of authority and they claim to know nothing.  She handed me a card to call a guy named Steven who is VP of Marketing and,... and he would then take it up with Tanya.  I asked if Tanya was there. No.  I asked for the Deputy Director Joe, not there.  I asked who the Manager on Duty is.  Nicole didn't know.  I asked Lamar, he said in his usual I don't know nothing response, I just deal with, ... naming his depts, like that's an excuse for not knowing who the Manager on Duty is.   So, once again as usual, no one has any answers, no one knows anything, its all smoke screens in that place.  ... I asked for my refund and told there was going to be some further delay, so I said I need to go, I'll be back tomorrow, have the check here. ... I called the Steven guy and left a message.  A couple hours later, I left another message that I would be there to pick-up my refund tomorrow and I would like a written detail of reasoning for them "denying' my Membership. We'll see if I get that reason, since I still never got one for the 2011 crime.

I seriously can not figure a reason that they can give that would be an honest one.  I have no idea what the issue point would be.  If I get a reasoning I will post it, and respond to it, because unlike Zoo Management, I have no problem with transparency. I can't imagine anything that would be justifiable to denying me Membership, but then so many unjustifiable things go on at the Zoo, and Director Peterson gets away it it all.  Why?  Because there are no checks and balances within the Zoo Management structure.  Director Peterson is both Director and President, creating a dictatorship.  As I understand it she is responsible to the San Francisco Zoological Society, who is responsible to the San Francisco Recreation and Park.  Not one person from the Zoological Society or Rec and Park, have any hands on dealing with Managing the Zoo, even though I think that's how its outlined in the Lease agreement.  All parties take Director Peterson's word on everything.  I don't know why, but nobody in either, really cares about the Zoo.  The way the Zoo works within the walls is, its either Director Peterson's way or you're out.  Director Peterson has wreaked havoc through Staff since she got there.  Forcing longtime Employees to quit or firing them, for a variety of reasons, mostly for having opinions that differ from hers, or speaking up when something isn't right.  Most recently, the Zoo went through a period of two months without any full-time Vet on Staff.  The two full-time Vets allegedly battled with Director Peterson in regard to Animal Care.  They have license and experience, she does not.  She allegedly fired one, and allegedly old the other to either retire or get fired.  Both left at the same time and the Zoo had no Vet on Staff.  There were outside Vets called in to fill the schedule, but days  there allegedly wasn't even a Vet on the grounds.  I haven't gotten to writing about this, but in my opinion, its really bad when you have over two hundred Animals and no full-time Vet on Staff.  Once the News Story about the sad Patas Monkey situation aired, the Vet who was fired was all of a sudden back.  Rumor has it, it was quick damage control on Director Peterson's part. 

Personally I think not having a Vet on staff at a Zoo is a bigger crime than anything I may have allegedly done.  Its curious the string of scandals over the past nine and a half years of Director Peterson's reign, and she is still there.  That's just one example of someone getting away with too much.   Over the past many years, I have been very vocal about the lack of Management and Security attention to the barrier breaching situation, as well as visitor misbehavior towards the Animals.  I call every time I see an issue.  If its a direct situation that could endanger an Animal, I often say something to the offenders (as well call), as Security never gets there in time, and frankly, an Animal can lose their life if someone falls into an enclosure.  I mention this because it amazes me how things are handled there, which directly relates to how I'm obviously still perceived as the "Zoo Enemy", when other members of the public constantly put the Animals in Danger and nothing happens.  Last year, Visitors threw rocks at one of the Tigers and weren't kicked out.  I was outraged, as was Security, but that was what was dictated by Management.  During Flamingo breeding season, I caught a drunk from the Zoo Oktoberfest Event, pick something up and throw it at a Flamingo Parent ON a nest!  I tried to stop them and they swore at me.  I called Security and reported the incident and that I was sworn at, and according to the rules posted, that is cause for ejection.  Afterward, I spoke with Bob Cooney who was Manager of the Day.  They were not ejected and he cited it as a "judgement call".  I was outraged.  A few months later, someone had their kid hanging over a barrier waving a stick at the Animals.  I told them they aren't supposed to be on the barriers.  The Mother told me to "Fuck off".  I called Security.  No one showed up.  As I was leaving I saw this Mother again and also Staffer Walker and reported the incident as well being told to "Fuck off".   I watched as Walker spoke to the Mother.  He was friendly and laughing.  You would think they were having a casual happy conversation.  No indication this was a serious incident and swearing at me was a violation of Zoo rules.  Afterward, when I saw the Mother not get ejected, I talked to Walker and he said, "It was a judgement call".  Are you kidding me?  I note these things, because, here I sit, I guess Public Enemy Number One for some reason, yet these people who put the Animals lives in danger and swear at other guests, get away with it.  They don't even get asked if they have Memberships (that could be revoked, or at the very least notated as a warning).  I guarantee you, there are different rules for different people.  If I had sworn at these people, I'd have been ejected and my membership revoked on the spot.  I will further note that Walker also told me that people get three warnings.  I have also heard this in relation to Membership revoking.  In 2011, neither Lee nor I got any warnings.  You can't really get warnings on untruths, but you know what I mean.   This time, no warnings either.  No one has said anything to me about anything.  

The other outrageous thing about this, evidently my Membership was "deactivated" on 3.3.17. There must have been an oversight that allowed me to renew on 4.4.17, but regardless, Director Peterson knew about this on 3.3.17, three months ago and at no point was any reason sent to me in writing.  As well, its been two months, since I renewed and at no point were my membership fees refunded.   The whole thing is outrageous.  Furthermore, where does that leave Lee and Michael?  They don't even come to the Zoo but maybe a couple times a year.  Are they "deactivated and deceased" in the eyes of Director Peterson as well?

Some people would say, why does this matter so much?  It matters because I'm tired of Director Peterson bullying everyone.  And whatever her reasoning is going to be about this, I will bet its going to boil down to an untruth, based on my opinions about something.  I can have whatever opinions I want.  I can be vocal about them.  That is not reason for denying Membership.   If it was anything more than being vocal, then why wasn't something said to me?  If it was anything more, I would be banned, but yet I'm allowed to buy a day admission.   I'm tired of being targeted when all I do is go there and care about the Animals and their Welfare.

I'll post an update when I have one.

San Francisco Zoo UnSecure Barriers - Rhinos, Hippo, Bears & Chimps

I have posted a Series of Videos, showing the Barrier Situation at Code Red Animal Exhibits for Black Rhino, Nile Hippo, Polar Bear, Chimpanzees, One-Horned Rhino.

These Videos are not only for documentation purposes, but to Support a Petition I have planned, Calling the San Francisco Zoo to Action, to Secure the Barriers to these Animals Homes, by adding Floor to Ceiling Glass across entire length of Exhibits.

It is also Unacceptable that these Exhibits, have little to no Signage.  The Yellow Respect The Animals Sign, is too wordy to be useful.   Simple to the point Signs, need to be placed at least every Six Feet across Exhibit.  ... Until these Enclosures are Secure with Glass, these Signs need to be in place.

The Black Rhino is one Animal I have repeatedly been vocal about.  His Barrier is Abused Constantly.  My guess would be at least a dozen times a day.  That's a dozen times that this Innocent Animal dodges a Bullet a day.  It is my opinion that he is the most Vulnerable, because there is  No Secondary Barrier, the Wall into his Enclosure looks less than Six Feet tall and he can come right to it, even looking over the top of it.  You will see in the video, that there is No Secondary Barrier, and One Sign for the entire length of the Enclosure, which is well over Eighty Feet.   

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_kKFFsQXCY

The Hippo is another one I have been vocal about.  His Barrier is Abused Constantly as well.  The only difference is he has a Secondary Barrier, by Zoo Standards, but in my opinion will not stop anyone from entering his Enclosure, accidentially or voluntarily.  You will see that the wiring is primarily, if not exclusively designed only to keep him in.  There is only One Sign along this Barrier that spands over Sixty Feet.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQzUFmsTtok

The Polar Bear is another Hot Spot for Barrier Abuse.  As Vulnerable as the Black Rhino, as there are people constantly on or over this Barrier all the time, only difference is, there is a Moat and the time it might take for Ulu to get down there, could be the saving point for Staff to be able to call her in. That is not a given though, making this enclosure in the top three that need to be Secured by Floor to Ceiling Glass.

The exact lay-out is at the Grizzly Bears Grotto.  They are Vulnerable to same situations as at Polar Bears.  Although, not as often as for most of the Business Hours, the Girls are in the Gulch, which is Secure.

There was an incident in 2009, that had their lives on the line.  The Zoo didn't learn from that, and has continued to leave our Bears Vulnerable to date.  Please read my previous post for more details about that incident.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8NV7EYZtPBo

The Chimps Barriers have been of Issue for too long.   This enclosure is three Grotto style areas, with Moats, tall side walls and that's basically it.  Designed to keep the Chimps in, aside from the Roping, there is nothing keeping people out.  In the front of the Exhibit the Roping looks to range from about Six to Eight Feet from the edge of the Enclosure.  I have seen Kids cross the Rope Barrier many times, both while Parents are watching and while they aren't.  There is a viewing area off the Cafe Party Room, that has been breachable for years.  Please read my previous post from over two years ago.    http://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2013/10/kids-allowed-beyond-barriers-at-chimp.html . The Exhibit side that borders the path along the Pachyderm Building is of extreme issue as the Enclosure edge is about Three feet from the Roping.  I think it being  tree-lined is why I haven't seen anyone hanging over this Barrier, but I have seen people cross it to get closer for photos.   This Enclosure is Rumored to be on the board for renovation, so I assume money won't be spent for a Glass Barrier (it hasn't even been spent to paint their house), but there needs to be a temporary fix to these Breaching Points, as well as additional Signage.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OBIByK9lCXY

UPDATE:  I took the Videos posted during the week after the Cincinnati Tragedy.  Last week there were Barrier additions to the Chimp Exhibit.  There is now a Secondary Barrier across the front of the Exhibit.  A waist high fencing that runs across the front length of the Exhibit to the existing fencing that stems from the Cafe viewing area.  Whether it extends into the trees that pose a breachable point, I don't know.   This Barrier will keep out anyone crossing the Barrier, but not looking to actually enter the Exhibit.  It won't keep out anyone who's intent is to Enter the Exhibit.  There has also been added,  a Floor to Ceiling Bamboo fencing that runs along the side that parallels the Pachyderm Building.  This is a Secure Barrier.  They have added a viewing window, which I think is a good idea, as this was a very good place to view the Chimps.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1NSYsNNVG4

The Asian One-Horned Rhino is a very curious set-up.  For being a Code Red Animal, he is out there front and center, with no Secure Barrier at all.  The Barrier that is there, will keep him In, but it in no way will keep anyone who wants in to easily access him.  This makes him high on the list of Vulnerable Animals.  The 100+ Foot Exhibit has a waist high Barrier of a Wooden Fence with heavy mesh.  Then there is a Flower Bed that stretches vertically about Eight- Ten Feet til it reaches the Floor to Ceiling Wire Barrier that keeps him in.  The initial Wood Barrier is Abused constantly and I've seen it a couple times even in front of Keepers.  First, I do think if anyone dropped their Kid over the Barrier,  because of the diastance to the Enclosure, unless the Kid was really a shit and not listening, it wouldn't reach the Animal.  BUT if the Kid was a shit, or it was someone who intentionally wanted to gain entry, neither of these Barriers would prevent that.  Also, in addition to the Respect the Animals useless signage, there are only two Do Not Cross Barrier type Signs, for the entire 80 Feet of the East portion of the Exhibit and Zero for the 24 Feet of the West side.                                     

https://youtu.be/X4ml_db5wHo

Added:  Will post more detailed look at Gorillas soon.  Someone asked me about the Barriers there. I didn't originally include them, as I don't think they are vulnerable to accidental breaches, so they weren't at the front of my mind when writing this.  The Gorilla viewing platforms that were built as open air, with just a singular Cement Barrier over looking the Enclosure.  A few years ago three or four of the five platforms were glassed in.  I haven't seen any Barrier Abuse since then. The other (s) with fencing indicating they were closed.  I have always thought that to be curious.  Those areas along with some landscaped areas are vulnerable to anyone wanting to enter the enclosure voluntarily.  One area may still be of issue.  Will take a closer look.

There are many other Exhibits that are victims to Barrier Abuse.  Patas Monkeys are one, I see too often.  The poor Meerkats and Prairie Dogs have people reaching into their homes.  Sea Lions, Kids Standing/Sitting on Rails.  Haven't seen much at Lemurs, but that one drops right in.  No signage about not being on Rails.  Pecarries, I see people sitting on that Barrier.  No Signs not to.  Puente, people hanging into that place where Anteater and Capybara are spending the most time.  Kangaroos. I'm sure there are others, but I'm getting overwhelmed.  I think I've gotten my point across.  I feel there needs to be a Message put forth that Informs Visitors that NO Barriers should be Sat On, Stood On, or Crossed.   Regardless of whether it is considered a Dangerous Animal or Not.  Having a Universal Message instills the basics that those acts are prohibited.   I personally feel like the Barriers are the Windows to the Animals Home.  How would you like it if a Stranger at any random time, hung over into your Home?

Please see my next Post (later today) that outlines my Petition to Keep Our Zoo Friends Safe.  Thank You.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

2014 Holidays at the Zoo

Zoo Friends in Rain on Xmas Eve

I visited the Zoo Friends on Christmas Eve Day.  During my visit it began to rain.  Since we have been having usually cold weather, I was more pissed than usual to see so many of the Animals forced out on exhibit.

The Zoo for years has had a sign at the entrance that notes that all Animals have access to the inside.  That has always been a flat out lie.  Many Animals are locked out on exhibit all day.  I investigated this several years ago, when my Precious Tapir Friend Goober, with terminal Health issues was allegedly by Management orders forced to be on exhibit.  I was outraged about this, and one day it came to a head when it was raining and there he stood in the rain staring at his bedroom door.  

As I went around the Zoo in the rain, giving Holiday Greetings to the Friends, I was really upset to see so many out.

 44 year old Elly, staring at her door

 Tucker, sleeping as usual under water, no choice but to

 Lions seek shelter

Indian Rhino Gauhati's door is always closed

Zoo Lights Lite

Busy and/or Sick the last few weeks, I finally got to Zoo Lights tonight, the last night.  Two words, Big Fail.  I hate to pick at things especially at this time in my Zoo passion issues, which are concentrated on the Chimps, Animal safety and proper living environments, but after seeing the Komodo Dragon still in a barren home (see previous post),  I'm once again bothered at the Zoo just seeming to not really give a shit.  Its either that, collaborative inemptness and cross the board laziness.  Either way you look at it, too much is left to Mediocrity.  

The Zoo has done this Event for three years now.  The first year they had some technical difficulties, but the attempt was decent and the part I saw was impressive and we had a great time.  Read my review here: 

http://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2012/12/inaugural-zoo-lights.html

Last year I had high hopes, as so many Zoo's were putting on really great displays and our Zoo seemed like it was trying.  I thought it fell short in light display, seeing as it is a "light" Event.   I thought the craft vendors and food truck were a great add. 

This year, Friends who had gone early in the Event said they were really disappointed.  After seeing some of the displays up prior, I had a feeling the effort to do a good Event wasn't going to be there.  Sadly I was right.  

I feel bad to hate on these little trees that could, but seriously, these poor little tree's deserved to be pretty.  Where did they get these decorations and who decorated them?   Even the Gulls were outraged, as I got a photo (I can't find) of them screaming at one.

And, I think the Zoo has lost sight of the fact that this is a Light Event, which means, don't go lite on the amount of lights.  Does anyone look at other Zoo (Point Defianace) Displays?   Are they aware that there is a whole TV Show (Great Christmas Light Fight) based on this?    The Show now in its second season has had two Marin based contestants.  The Zoo needs to get their number and get some help if they plan to do this again.  If you are not going to Wow people, dim the lights and get out of the game.

Here are some photos.  Again the Snowflakes on the ground were the best part.  Thankfully I took the photo of the three lit Animals at the Entry going in, because they were out an hour later when I left.   I was told they "shorted out".   Each year there has been electrical issues and parts of the Event blacked out.   If the Zoo can't handle keeping lights on, then don't have an Event that is about lights.

So yeah, not enough lights, and hardly any food.  The food options were pathetic, especially for an Event that takes place during the Dinner hours.   No Food Truck, only the Lemur Cafe had food and not even full Menu they usually have. I'm pretty sure there were less than ten menu items.   We left after an hour to spend money elsewhere on food.

One right thing they did was have Keeper Nancy out at Koalas sharing her knowledge and photos.   As well she was after doing the same at Giraffes, but we had to leave to seek food.  AND of course the Reindeer.  I love seeing them.

In hindsight, I'm not even sure Snow Flurry machine was on that night.  I think I would have noticed.  So, possibly no Snow, no real food options.  If you can't put on full experience as advertised, dont do it.  People are paying to get in as well some paying more than entrance fee to park.

If I was in charge of this Event and only had the amount of lights in use, I would concentrate them into a smaller area.  Having parts of the Zoo open when not many Animals to see ( I knew this and was not expecting more) is a waste of light space, especially when nothing else is going on in those areas.   Condense efforts, by reducing and changing the areas open during the event.  This would make the "light" portion of the event appear to be more.

I think the Event would be better off if it were only open at Entry Village, Playfield, a portion of the Childrens Zoo.  I think the Craft Vendors and Food Trucks (plural) should be a part of it always.   As well that awesome video display from the first year.  What happened to that?   There is much unused space beyond the tent, in front of the Mothers Building.  Even if they can't figure out what they are doing with the MB, they can at least do something with the area instead of closing it off.  I think it should be a Zoo History House with Memorbilia, but I hear that the Zoo threw out alot of the historical photos and video.  Allegedly no one found value it in.  More disgrace.  But I digress.  Keep the lights concentrated to Entry Village and the path to the Playfield.  Vendors and Food by Mothers Building.  I mentioned the CZ.  I think they should open the right side path, open the ARC (which is rarely open now) and allow people to have a chance to see those rarely seen Animals and have a portion of the Farm viewable.  I say viewable because I don't think crowds of people should be in the Farm after hours, but I do think they should take advantage of putting together a Manger scene in the first corral and having some of our wonderful Farm Friends involved.  They also need to build on the festive as there was none.  I don't remember hearing any Christmas music and I'm not even a fan of it.  But, at an Event, I think its a must.  Hire Carollers, something.  Hand out Candy Canes.  Something.  The two costumed Characters were the only interactive festive elements to the Event.

My Friend pointed out that there wasn't even one Security Guard visable.  In fact the place was void of any Zoo Staff.  Why is there never one Zoo Official at any Event other than ZooFest or another cocktail party type event?  Not that I think its a good idea for our Director to be out at Events, but at least it would show a sense of care if she were, as well other higher up Staffers.  She didn't even make an appearace at the Flamingo Day Event (which I stil haven't reviewed) and those Flamingo Chicks shoudl have gotten major recognition since they were the first in four years.  She just doesn't seem to care about anything.  And what about Bob Cooney, head of Visitor Experience?  What's he doing that he can't be out at Events greeting Visitors.  The Zoo often just throws Events together and no one from the "team" is there to be interactive with guests.   

That all said,  I'm also bothered by things in the past that weren't done again this Holiday Season.

Animals Get No Presents 

A Christmas time Event that stopped when the Zoo opted instead for Zoo Lights, was an Event of Gift Giving from one species of Animal to another.  Like the Otters would give to the Lions.  So then the Lions would get Christmas decorated boxes.  Toy Enrichment "presents" filled with treats.  Again everyone knows I'm a big fan of Enrichment, and especially love seeing the Animals get Holiday/Birthday themed toy items.  With the elimination of this, the Zoo is down to only giving the Animals this type of fun during the Halloween Event and even thats gone iffy, OR if a randon Animal rates a Birthday treat.  

Speaking of Birthday treats.  (chk which year 2012 or 2013)  For several years the Polars got Snow, donated by the San Francisco Ice Company.  Understandable if there was no donation, and I have no idea how that comes about.  Just saying that I miss it and the Polars loved it.  Reason I'm bring it up is more because of the Birthday Fail.  The Zoo (outside the Family Farm) rarely, recognizes the Animals on their Birthdays, whether it be a Facebook shout out or a special treat (both should be mandatory).  I can't say never, because there is that rare occasion for whatever reason (usually media attention) one Animal will rate something.   One of those occasions was when they turned the last Snow donation, into an "Event" to pimp out the Polars Birthdays for Media attention and to attract Visitors.  A sign was posted at their homes for a couple weeks wishing them "Happy Birthday".  I hate that the Animals are used in that way, but if it gets them special treats, whatever.  I will say it was the last time they got special attention for their Birthdays and the only other time before that was when my Friend Lee and I made them and the other Bears Birthday Enrichment Toys in 2011.  This year, both Pike whose Birthday was November 25th and Ulu whose Birthday was December 19th got no mention and no special treats.   In fact while I was there on Pike's Birthday, I was bothered to watch Ulu get thrown treats (but happy she did) while Pike got none and it was her Birthday.   Neither got a mention on the Zoo's Facebook Page.

Our Polars are two of my fav Zoo Friends.  I love these Girls!  Happy Birthday to Pike who turned 32 and to Ulu who turned 34!  Both Bears have reached milestone ages, with Ulu being the oldest female in captivity in a North American Zoo.   The Zoo should not only be celebrating the Animals on their special days, but especially our wonderful Seniors who have given so many years of joy to people.   Elly the Black Rhino will turn 44 January 1st!  Sadly she will most likely not get any mention or special treats.

HOT TOPIC! - Top 10 Zoo FAILS of 2014

These are all Fails in regard to Animal Care.  The only bigger Fail is that the Zoo built new areas for both Humans and new Animals, before they successfully tended to the Animals currently living there.

These are only the issues that I can personally witness.

Chimps -  Obviously the lack of attention to their Home is at the top of my list every year.
Please read my recent post:
http://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2015/01/sfzoo-chimpanzees-need-some-love.html
There are also two immediately following this one, if you are inclined to learn more.

Female Black Rhino -  Still doesn't get oiled regularly.  They wait until she is chalky white and then often slop it on her, often getting it in her eyes, or they just don't do her face.  .. You can search my blog for many notations on this.  It has gotten better but still isn't the best it can be and certainly not in comparison to her Grandson Belozi.  You can see this photo from last week and from her shoulders forward she is getting chalky.

Black Swans - We had, yes had, two Black Swans.  Now one of the Sisters is alone.  The Zoo has screwed around with these poor girls for over two years.  First moving them to the Puente,  from a path they decided to close. Then moving them to the old Grey Seal Pool.  Then back to the Puente.  Then to the big lake where the White Pelicans live.  So much moving, sadly one ended up dying from related circumstances.  Now the surviving one is back at the Puente.  If the Zoo had left these poor girls alone and at the Puente the first time they moved them, both would still be alive.  The Zoo is more concerned about Geographical segregation than keeping the Animals in the best homes for them.   Yes, that is the reason they moved them out of the Puente so many times, because they didn't fit into that area in natures geography.  Ridiculous.

Falcor - Komodo Dragon's home has been void of any vegetation landscaping for over four months.  Read my post here:
http://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2015/01/komodo-dragon-lives-in-barren-dirt-pit.html

Lion House -  No Heat for Six Months!  This one is a two-fer, involving both the Cats and the holding area for the Tropical Building Animals.
My recent post:
http://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2015/01/heater-in-lion-house-out-for-six-months.html

Capybara - This poor little guy makes me want to cry.  Crackle is the newest Capybara.  A young male he came to the Zoo to be a companion for a female that has since passed.  They Rheas and Guanacos chase him, so he is always stuck cowering in this same spot.  At one time the Capybara used to spend the day in a side yard, yet that yard is now closed?  and poor Crackle has no choice but to seek refuge in this "creep" space.  He shouldn't be living in fear.

keeping an eye on the enemy

 hiding

Great Hornbill - Hercules is a huge Bird, he deserves a decent sized home.  He can never really fly as his wing-span is near the same size as the width of his home.
Lear more here:
http://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2013/09/homes-of-hornbills.html

Polar Bear Grotto B - It was my idea to expand the Polar Bear Grotto, but while taking cue from me on the idea, the Zoo failed in execution of the Meadow.  Building a dirt mound in the center, instead of a flat surface area, Ulu who loves the dirt, is constantly covered in it.  She loves it but the point is, with so much extra and unnecessary dirt, she is never able to get clean.  The entrance to her night quarters is through the "meadow", so even if she goes to the pool to wash off, she must walk through the dirt to get inside.  Then she touches her eyes and they are often caked with dirt and sometimes closed.  The Zoo needs to flatten that mountain and removed all that extra dirt.  If they were smart the meadow would have been in the opposite Grotto, but ,...

Sea Lions - The Sea Lion Pool was "renovated" early in 2014.  It was a big project, with the Sea Lions relocating to the old Grey Seal Pool.   One would think they would have done a good job, considering how long it took.  Yet, the paint on the whole bottom of the Pool began peeling and coming lose soon after it reopened.  Good Grief.  Couldn't they get people who knew what they were doing?  I'm sure the paint that has come loose isn't good for the Sea Lions.

Photo to come

Chickens - So, a box of Six Chickens was left in the Zoo Parking lot.  The story goes as such.  The box was fumbled and they all escaped, fleeing in flight into the Zoo.  After being spotted here and there, an attempt was made to catch them, but it failed.  SO, the Curator in charge allegedly said they didn't care and the Chickens were left to fend for themselves.  OMG!  Unbelievable, that a Curator would actually say/feel this, but hey its the SFZoo and why am I surprised.  As well, one of the Security Guards who I was talking to about this one I saw at Polar Bears said laughing, "oh well, if it flies into the Polar Bears and gets eaten <haha>"

HOT TOPIC! - Heater in Lion House Out For Six Months!

This is really outrageous!

I walked into the Lion House last month and it was freezing!  This was at the tail end of the real cold snap we were having, so it wasn't even as cold as it probably has been.  

I asked the Security Guard if he knew what tempature the LH is supposed to be.  I knew he probably didn't know, but because I couldn't get a clear photo, I was trying to find out if he could check the thermostat for me.  He didn't have authorization to get to that area, but did say its been freezing in there since he started working there.  I asked how long that was and he said six months.  

I had only been inside the LH a few times over the past several months, and because it wasn't during the cold snap, I guess I didn't notice the low temp.  In hindsight, the Lion House had always been pretty warm, in fact sometimes, steaming up my glasses.  

I happened to see a non-zoo maintance worker, so I questioned him a bit and found out that he was there to install a new furnace.  SO, it wasn't that the temperature was just low, apparently/allegedly there has been NO Heat in the Lion House for 6 Months!   Are you kidding me?!

My concerns not only are that the Cats are in there freezing at night, but that when the "bedrooms" are washed down each day, they aren't drying and the Cats are then sleeping on wet floors.

AND the Zoo aquired Animals for the Tropical Building, even though at the time they aquired them the renovation on that building was over a year away.  They built a small exhibit to house them in the LH.  I have an issue with the size of this "home" but thats another story.  My concern is, these are Tropical Animals, which means they need a certain temperature.  The Zoo knows this and they don't fix a building heater for half a year?   Out-fucking-rageous!   

So, the Toucan was there in the freezing cold.  There was a mess of extention cords on the side, so I assume there is some heat going into the Anaconda's water?  Yet, the heat lamps above her were unplugged?  The Sloth was not in there, having been moved to the Hospital to keep it warm.  

I seriously am losing words to express the things the San Francisco Zoo does/doesn't do, that aren't just a string of swear words.  I'm so frustrated at the lack of attention to the Animals.  But hey, the City Officials thinks everyone is doing a bang up job there. Animals get killed (and not just Kabibe the Infant Gorilla).  There is no Heat and for some Animals not even proper shelter during the Winter.  Animal homes go without Landscaping.  Enrichment is near non-existant for many of the Animals.  All this and the City Officials don't question anything or anyone.  There is a list of Staff who should be under the microscope in regard to whether they are qualified and are doing the job they are being paid to do.

I saw the Director the same day I was there takinig in the disgrace of the Lion House and she was coming out of the Gift Shop with a coffee in hand and laughing it up with people.  I'm sure the Sloth wasn't laughing it up as it was freezing.  

Furthermore,  in my opinion, again,  when an Animals Safety or Health is of issue, what is the Animal Staff Management doing?   The Carnivore (Cats +) Curator Corinne MacDonald and Dominic, the Curator for the Tropical Animals, and the Curator above them, who I believe is still David Bocian,  should be the driving force to have made sure there was heat for these Animals.  

I repeat, the lack of Empathy and Compassion, that goes on at the Zoo really saddens me.  The Zoo is Home to Wondeful Beings and could be a great place if it weren't for all these people bringing it down, with laziness, bad descisions, and personal agendas.

HOT TOPIC! - Komodo Dragon Lives in Barren Dirt Pit

I had been pissed for months about the state of Falcor the Komodo Dragon's Home.  I was really enraged when I went to Zoo Lights and saw that the outside of the exhibit was fancied up with Christmas Lights, while the Komodo Dragon himself sit in a barren pit.  The gall of the Zoo is shouldn't, but continues to surprise me.  

Just another Disrespect of Animals by Zoo Management.  

As I said, this has really bothered me for months and I was hoping since I brought it up to someone there, that the situation would change, but it hasn't.  At this point its been at least four months (and I'm being generous because I've lost track) that Falcor has had not one bit of greenery in his home.  This is not only Disrespectful, its possibly (I haven't researched it yet) an improper environment.  

When Falcor arrived he was the "favorite son".  He got a fancy new enclosure with tons of greenery.  Hoopla ensued, Komodo Dragon this, Komodo Dragon that.  

First they disrespect him by changing his name, a name that his previous home, the Memphis Zoo where he was born (hatched) told me he responded to.  At near two years old when he arrived at the SFZoo, he was given the name Falcor soon after hatching.  Named after the Dragon in the movie The Neverending Story,  some dumb donor tried to be "native" I guess, using the word Bahasa which means Language, literally the word Language in Indonesian, but then also had to be an ass by adding in Big Daddy.  SO the poor little guy was disrespected with the name Big Daddy Language, and par for the course, Zoo Officials could care less what anyone names an Animal as long as the check clears.  Now the poor guy has been here over a year, and he sits in a home that is barren of any vegetation.   The statue outside has more landscaping than he does.  

Poor Falcor just sits and stares out at green. 

I hear there was a change in Curators (from the one I talked to) for this string of Animals.  I don't know who the new person is, but I can say this, the guy straight off isn't doing his job.  If this new guy can come in and not see that this is a problem that should be a priority to fix, then he isn't qualified for this job.

Falcor is also quickly outgrowing this habitat and plans for his new home that were supposed to be in motion soon after his arrival, to be started for a move-in within two years, have been back burnered because of all the other new additions to the Zoo's collection.

I guess everyone is too busy building 2nd and 3rd tree houses for the Red Pandas who continue to be the "favorite sons", literally since only the male Kodari who they renamed (Tenzing) is the only one to get any fanfare.  The male has a sign with his new name, while the female Grace doesn't doesn't have a sign.  I'll also note that Grace, who is over ten years old, had her name ripped from her as well.  Kodari also got a Birthday party, and Grace didn't.   

Falcor is one of my fav Zoo Friends.  I love this guy and feel awful that like too many others, he has been disresepected and slighted.  Its Sad, Disgraceful and downright Embarassing.

San Francisco Zoo, get this poor guy some greenery!  Give him a proper environment and get started on his new home.   Stop bringing in more Animals and take care of the ones you have.

I got no problem with the Zoo prioritizing building homes for Animals in need of Rescuing. My issue is, bringing in more Animals just to grow the Collection and/or try to pull in extra gate sales by doing so, is a Fail unless you take care of the ones you've already committed to giving a home to.

Please view my video taken a couple weeks ago

that shows the whole habitat.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBY-YMCqJtQ

Also, one taken shortly after his arrival

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JMPujbG7Yps