Page 5 - Gateways_2019-Fall

Perspective

BALL PYTHON By Stuart D. Strahl, Ph.D.
President & CEO

Since Brookfield Zoo opened its gates in 1934, we
have been committed to connecting individuals and
communities with wildlife and nature—and that
commitment includes a detailed population plan for managing
the diverse number of species that call Brookfield Zoo home.

To help guide our efforts, the population plan is built upon
the institution’s strategic master plan, which is reevaluated
every five years. However, we continuously review the
population plan, making changes as needed, using a wide
range of criteria when choosing a species to make sure we
can provide the best animal care possible. One of the most
important criteria we evaluate is how can we help contribute
to the conservation—and sustainability—of a species. We also
make sure to consider how a species can help our guests
connect to and engage in conservation practices on a daily
basis. You can learn more about our comprehensive approach
to the population plan in an interview with our senior vice
president of animal programs, Bill Zeigler, on page 30.

Summer might be winding down, but we invite you
to come check out our fall events as well. Our gates are
open 365 days a year for guests to get up close with animals
and participate in experiences that inspire conservation
leadership, and I look forward to seeing you there!

BROOKFIELD ZOO | FALL 2019 5