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Perspective

A lmost all science learning occurs
outside of traditional classrooms.
The Chicago Zoological Society is
committed to providing our guests with
exciting science-learning experiences.
Our newest exhibit, Hamill Family
Nature Plaza, carries this commitment
forward. The Plaza, which opened last fall,
is an outdoor classroom for science learning.
By Stuart D. Strahl, Ph.D. It includes science-exploration and sensory
President & CEO gardens and opportunities for guests to learn

about wildlife, including our Animal Ambas-
sadors. In the warm months to come, the
Plaza’s open-air pavilion will host some of our
popular educational offerings, including our
Zoo Camp and teacher-training programs.
Hamill Family Nature Plaza showcases more than 650 trees and shrubs
and 10,030 perennials and vines. The 1.5-acre site was planted with more
than 8,200 square feet of perennial seeds. As you can see, plants are
important at Brookfield Zoo—the first zoo in the country to become a
certified arboretum. You’ll find a “Tree Guide” on our website that lists
more than 100 species of woody plants found on zoo grounds. An article
in this issue highlights the role of trees in our park and reforestation efforts
around the world.
Many of our animals are “rescues”; they came to us because they
would not have survived in the wild. You’ll read a compelling story about
two of our newest animals—California sea lions Carolyn and Sabiena.
The Chicago Zoological Society and Brookfield Zoo celebrate
conservation, wildlife, and nature every day. Our annual Party for the
Planet is a special event that will take place on Saturday, April 18.
Please come out and celebrate with us!

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