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Locals You NORTH AMERICAN RIVER OTTERS
CONSERVATION Should Know
We are hoping to eventually celebrate EASTERN
Think about some wildlife that some young massasaugas as well. In addition MASSASAUGA
you might run into close to home. to the snakes that live on exhibit in Feathers RATTLESNAKE
What did you picture? A squirrel, or and Scales and The Swamp, there is an off-exhibit
perhaps a rabbit? population of these snakes at Brookfield Zoo, houses other creatures that are a little more
How about an eastern massasauga which staff will try to breed. abundant in local bogs, ponds, and marshes.
rattlesnake or a North American river otter? The spotted turtle, gray tree frog, and rough
The latter two species have historically While they might not generate the same green snake in Feathers and Scales, for example,
called Chicago-area wetlands their home. kind of buzz as two otter pups, these snakes all call Illinois their home.
But they’re not very common today. Their play an incredibly important role in the wild.
populations have taken a hit over the years They help control the rodent population— We can also help you find them outside of
due to habitat destruction, unregulated which means they also help control rodent- the zoo. New signs in The Swamp direct guests
hunting, and pollution. Massasaugas in related diseases such as Lyme disease. to various Forest Preserves of Cook County
particular are considered a threatened wetlands that are close to home but may feel
species in Illinois. We also participate in an annual SSP like a whole different world. After learning
That’s why the Chicago Zoological Society meeting at the Edward Lowe Foundation’s about these creatures at Brookfield Zoo, you
is participating in the Species Survival Plan Big Rock Valley in Michigan, where researchers can visit your local wetlands to try and catch
(SSP) breeding program of the Association of from more than 20 zoos gather to study a glimpse of them in the wild and to see the
Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) for these animals. massasaugas in their natural habitat and natural habitats we are working to preserve.
SSPs focus on maintaining healthy and determine survival and reproduction rates. Have fun exploring!
genetically diverse populations within zoos,
and we are committed to making sure these Our focus doesn’t end with local wetland
creatures remain part of their ecosystems. species that need our help. Brookfield Zoo
Jack and Kate, the two otter pups born at
Brookfield Zoo last spring, are a direct result
of the River Otter SSP. These pups, who are
the first successful offspring of this species
born at the zoo, currently reside in The Swamp,
providing a chance for guests to connect
with some charismatic young from their
own backyard.
Join the Elite
SUPPORT As a way to thank you for your support, we are launching an Elite Recogni-
tion Program, giving you access to exciting activities behind the scenes at
Brookfield Zoo.
In addition to renewing or purchasing a membership in 2018, you can adopt
an animal through our Share the Care program, donate to our Annual Fund, or
participate in fundraising events. If your cumulative support is $400 or more, you
become an entry-level Topaz Safari Member.
Benefits of elite recognition include priority Zoo Camp registration, a private
escorted golf cart tour of the zoo, four additional guest passes, a subscription to
a special e-newsletter, immediate access to press release e-blasts, and personal
Safari Circle VIP access for any questions or requests, plus all of the regular benefits
of your membership. Just call (708) 688-8667 to become a Topaz Safari Member of
this elite group.
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