Page 11 - Impact Report_2019 PDF

Other highlights in animal care
and welfare in 2019:
"Zoo for All" Update
• The Sarasota Dolphin Research Program
(SDRP) entered its 50th year of dolphin
research and conservation. Much of 2019's
research focus was on understanding the
effects of a recent severe red tide (harmful
algal bloom) on the long-term resident
dolphins of Sarasota Bay and their ecosystem.
• The final portion of the first-ever multi-
institutional study of cetacean welfare ended
and CZS researchers received data from 43
participating institutions in seven countries.
• Research outcomes were published on heart
parameters, health biomarkers, and manage-
ment of pregnancy complications in tree
pangolins—the world’s most-trafficked
mammal.
• Polar bear Hudson received the first CT
scan of a living adult polar bear during a
routine exam.
Allie Dolphin swims in the SEVEN SEAS main habitat.
• Black rhino Layla received a first-of-its-kind
radiation treatment which helped shrink
a mass in her sinuses.
• Our first set of baby Blanding’s turtles
hatched and will be released in DuPage
County to help increase the number of
this endangered species.
• Two anesthesia projects were completed
involving Peruvian fur seals at the Punta
San Juan Marine Protected Area.
• The Illinois Zoological and Aquatic
Animal Residency Program turned 15.
Program graduates received training at Brook-
field Zoo and now work in institutions across
the country—many in leadership roles. █
Campers with CZS's Zoo Camp program tour the Animal Hospital at Brookfield Zoo.
At Brookfield Zoo, we believe in building an inclusive conservation
movement. Through our "Zoo for All” initiative, we are committed to
providing all of our guests—including the 20 percent who have some
level of disability—with meaningful and engaging experiences.
Our commitment to this initiative remains strong.
Zoo Camp Inclusion Accreditation
Brookfield Zoo’s popular Zoo Camp allows campers of all abilities
to have fun together while learning about animals, conservation,
and nature. In 2019, it was one of the first programs in the country
to receive accreditation by the National Inclusion Project (NIP).
NIP is a nonprofit organization that promotes the inclusion of
children with disabilities and special needs in activities with their
nondisabled peers. New accreditation standards, developed with
input from CZS staff, include requirements for programming, staffing,
accessibility of facilities and transportation, and accommodations that
allow all campers to participate together.
Zoo Camp has also been accredited by the American Camp
Association (ACA), which determines health and safety standards for
camps in North America. Only 7 percent of ACA-accredited camps
provide an inclusive setting that allows participants with and without
disabilities to enjoy the experience together. We are proud to be one
of them.
HAMILL FAMILY NATURE PLAZA
After several years of planning and construction, our newest
exhibit HAMILL FAMILY NATURE PLAZA opened last fall.
The Plaza's design includes features making it accessible to people of
all abilities and a sensory garden that is conveniently located off the
main promenade. The garden includes a mix of non-toxic plants of
various colors, textures, and scents that are meant to be seen, touched,
and smelled. Wide walkways, comfortable seating, and raised beds
make the garden an accessible space for people with limited mobility.
The space promotes the message that Brookfield Zoo is a “Zoo for All.”
CHICAGO ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY | 2019 IMPACT REPORT 9