Houston Zoo Content Managers RSS Feed

Birthday, Honor and Memorial Gifts

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:06:43 GMT

Thank you for considering the Houston Zoo in planning a gift to honor your friend, family or colleague. The contribution that you make in his or her honor is a gift that helps us create and maintain a living legacy enjoyed by over a million people each year in your zoo.

When a birthday, gift in honor of someone or a memorial donation is made, the Houston Zoo will immediately send a letter to the honoree or the family of the person to whom the memorial is dedicated to acknowledge that a gift has been made in their honor (without specifying the amount.) The donor will also receive a thank you letter from the Houston Zoo that acknowledges the gift and the birthday, honor or memorial fund, as applicable.

Friends and family members may wish to create a longer lasting gift:

For a contribution of gifts totaling at least $100, your loved one may be listed on a beautiful brick at the entrance to the Houston Zoo.
For a gift of $5,000 or more, he or she can be memorialized on a bench in the location of the family’s choice on the Zoo grounds.
For contributions totaling $100,000, your loved one can be honored with an endowment fund in his or her name that will benefit a particular area within the Houston Zoo, such as education, an area of animal care, conservation or the general maintenance endowment.
Other options may be available depending on an individual’s area of preference and passion.

For more information, please contact the Development Department at (713) 533-6819.

Tree Decorating Guidelines

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:16:20 GMT

There will be decorating parties on Friday, December 4 and Saturday, December 5 from 8:30 -10:30 a.m. All trees must be decorated at these times. Coffee, Juice and Kolaches will be served. Please share these restrictions with everyone helping with your tree. Ornaments made from the materials listed are not allowed to be hung on the trees and will be removed. Please keep in mind the health and safety of our animals when constructing your ornaments. Be creative! Materials PROHIBITED for Ornaments: NO FOOD ITEMS (including but not limited to): Food on strings (popcorn, cereal, cranberries, peanuts, pasta, marshmallows) Candy canes Ice cream cones with birdseed Graham crackers Cereal Suet with bird seed Peanut butter balls with bird se Dog biscuits Pine cones dipped in peanut butter Pet food Ornaments made of dough Strung Styrofoam “peanuts” Tinsel (or icicles) Glass Toxic paints Spray snow Lights PLEASE REMEMBER DURABILITY. The ornaments need to withstand the...

Senior Safari

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:57:55 GMT

content goes here

This Year...Make a LION'S Day!

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:44:48 GMT

Winter is upon us and the year is coming to a close. In this season of giving, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to the animals at the Zoo. The Houston Zoo is a non-profit organization that exists to bring our visitors closer to nature, and to bridge the gap between urban spaces and wild places. Your contribution will be used throughout the new year to care for and enrich the lives of our resident animals. Each of our 4,500 animals, like Jonathan, the handsome lion, help to link our guests to the natural world by serving as ambassadors for their wild counterparts. They deserve the very best care available, but in order to provide it, we rely on support from friends like you who know the important educational role that they play in our community. Please consider adding us to your gift list this year, and help make this season a bit brighter for Jonathan and his friends. Earlier this month, Jonathan received a very special gift...

Home Page - Houston Zoo Television

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:38:19 GMT

Feast 2009!

Feast With the Beasts 2009 was our biggest and best event to date. Here's a video of the fantastic evening! You can see more Houston Zoo videos on our Media Page.

See more on our media page...

Today at the Zoo - Meet the Keeper Talks

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:18:16 GMT

We hope you enjoy meeting our animals and our staff! Meet the Keeper Talks generously sponsored by Today’s Meet the Keeper Talks & Grounds Programming: Friday, November 20, 2009 10:00 Meet the Keeper Talk at Natural Encounters 10:00 Elephant Bath 10:00 Chameleon Feeding at the Reptile House 10:30 Bat Feeding at the Children’s Zoo 10:30 Tiger Training Window 10:30 Story Safari at the Butterfly Stage in the Children’s Zoo 11:00 Story Safari at the Butterfly Stage in the Children’s Zoo 11:00 Meet the Sea Lion Keeper Chat (weather permitting) 11:15 Cinereous Vulture Feeding 12:00 Zooper Challenge at the Butterfly Stage in the Children’s Zoo 12:00 Meet the Keeper Talk at Mandrills 12:00 Meet the Keeper Talk at Natural Encounters 12:30 Zooper Challenge at the Butterfly Stage in the Children’s Zoo 12:30 Meet the Keeper Talk at Howler Monkeys 1:00 Meet the Keeper Talk at Natural Encounters 1:20 Saddle-Billed Stork Feeding at Birds of the World 1:30...

Houston Zoo Adult Volunteers

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:04:56 GMT

Areas of Volunteer Service Clerical Service Area Yes, the Zoo is about animals! Behind-the-scenes there are mailings, filing, data entry, phone calls, craft/activity preparation for special events, and more that could not be done without our volunteers. Requirements: Specific training by the staff service area lead if needed. Contact Yard Assistant Interact with guests of all ages in the Zoo’s contact yard. Not only do you make the guest experience outstanding, you enrich the lives of our goats, pigs, sheep, etc. in the contact yard. This is one area where you are working directly with the animals! Requirements: Specific training by the staff service area lead. Negative TB Test Result. Docents Volunteers committed to educating our guests about the animals and the conservation projects Houston Zoo participates in. These volunteers make a serious commitment of time and energy to become Zoo experts. Requirements: Three-part training course including teaching skills,...

Backyard Wildlife Series

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:57:11 GMT

Ages 13+, at least one adult (18+) per pair First Saturday of every month All projects start at 1 pm; programs are 2-3 hours in length $30-50 per pair (includes materials for one project and Zoo admission for two people) Ever wonder about the animals that call Houston home? Looking for a way to transform your yard into a backyard habitat? Join us for the Backyard Wildlife Series as we explore the local wildlife and create something for their benefit. Each month you will build a project to take home and participate in a special zoo experience. All the proceeds from these programs will be contributed to Texas-based conservation initiatives. January 9: Bat House ($50) 1 - 4 pm Did you know that bats eat thousands of mosquitos every day? Join us as we learn about the bats of Texas and the important role they play in our community. We'll get a special look at the Children's Zoo bat colony and each pair will take home a full-size bat house. This month's featured conservation...

Breakfast with the Animals

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:50:18 GMT

Breakfast Is Going Wild! A very special experience exclusively for Zoo members. December 12, 2009 It will be a wild morning when you start your day with the Sea Lions. Swim on over and you will have the opportunity to watch the feeding habits and enrichment activities of our Sea Lions and enjoy breakfast too. Registration will begin the morning of November 20, 2009. These events fill up fast, so don’t miss out on an extra special event where you will become more familiar with our mammals and the enrichment that is utilized to enhance their lives. This unique experience is designed to provide you with interesting educational messages while stimulating healthy natural-like behaviors in our animal ambassadors. Juice and Buffet Breakfast will be served promptly at 7:30. Space is limited to the first 50 people. Registration and prepayment are required. The Houston Zoo reserves the right to cancel any Breakfast. In the event that such a cancellation occurs, we will...

Global Projects

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 23:01:59 GMT

Zoos and aquariums of the 21st century are challenged to go beyond the care, exhibition, and breeding of exotic creatures to become full-blown centers for conservation and real players on the ground in global efforts to preserve threatened wildlife. The Houston Zoo strives to be a leader in conservation as it relates to the survival of threatened wildlife and habitats, the wise use of natural resources, and the appreciation of our natural world by the zoo audiences. This objective will be accomplished through a comprehensive program of on-site and field initiatives based on good science, sound economics, and environmental and cultural sensitivity. The Houston Zoo recognizes both the challenges and the opportunities for combining quality public recreation and education with efforts to ensure the survival of threatened species in captivity and in the wild. Our goal is to fully integrate the conservation mission into the institution's day-to-day operation and to increase our...

Internships

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:36:00 GMT

Current Intern Position Descriptions All internships are unpaid unless otherwise noted. Please check the careers page for paid seasonal jobs and internship opportunities. Spring 2010 Opportunities Description Animal Care Internship pdf Marketing Internship pdf Nature Swap Interpretation Intern pdf Conservation Marketing Intern pdf Education Intern pdf Human Resources Intern pdf Houston Toad Program Intern pdf Horticulture Intern pdf Membership Intern pdf Purchasing/Commissary pdf Environmental Intern pdf For more information on internships, send an e-mail to Jenee Pierre or call 713-533-6803. More About the Houston Zoo Operated by the not-for-profit Houston Zoo, Inc., the Houston Zoo is dedicated to conserving endangered species, to providing engaging educational opportunities, and to creating stimulating exhibits that broaden the experiences of our guests and encourage their curiosity. To accomplish all this the...

Zoo Ball

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:20:21 GMT

Zoo Friends of Houston’s 22nd Zoo Ball A Way To Africa Friday, April 30, 2010 Honoring Anne and Charles Duncan Cristina Buaas and Sheila Hulme, Chairs Come, travel with us to Africa! Pack your binoculars and grab your passport! Zoo Friends of Houston, Inc. is pleased to inform you that we have discovered A Way To Africa - coming soon to the Houston Zoo! We are excited to announce that the proceeds from Zoo Ball 2010, A Way To Africa, will benefit the much anticipated African Forest exhibit at the Houston Zoo. We invite you to be a part of the Houston Zoo’s history by joining us in supporting the ongoing Phase One capital needs of the African Forest by being an underwriter for Zoo Ball 2010, A Way To Africa. Click here for Underwriting and Naming Opportunities. Purpose and Goals of Zoo Friends of Houston, Inc. Zoo Friends of Houston, Inc. is a non-profit volunteer organization dedicated to providing broad support to the Houston Zoo. Chartered in...

Reptile & Amphibian Building

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:08:56 GMT

The Houston Zoo’s Reptile and Amphibian building was built in 1960. It replaced the original Bird and Reptile House, which was a wooden structure on the site now occupied by the Fisher Bird Gardens.

The building was designed by Irving Klein and Associates and was built by Brown Construction Company. The Reptile and Amphibian building was built through a bond issue passed in the mid-1950’s, and was the first “modern building” in the Zoo; other facilities built on this bond issue were the Small Mammal House, the Tropical Bird House, and the Sea Lion Pool (which was the first facility constructed). Irving Klein also designed the Sea Lion Pool and the Small Mammal House.

The Houston Zoo is fortunate in having a diverse array of reptile species in its collection. Currently the building and its associated facilities (such as Natural Encounters and Children's Zoo) house over 900 animals representing some 140 species of reptiles and 40 species of amphibians. Included among these are some of the world’s most venomous snake species such as the Gaboon viper, Black mamba and the Black forest cobra), some of the largest snakes such as the Reticulated python, the Burmese python, and the largest lizards (Komodo dragon and Crocodile monitor). A favorite animal is Blanco, one of only fourteen white alligators in existence. Despite his white color, he is not an albino, but exhibits a condition known as leucism (think of it as a normal colored animal with a giant white spot covering its entire body).

Photo Day at the Houston Zoo

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:33:36 GMT

Photograph by Andy BiggsPhotography enthusiasts - come out to the Houston Zoo on Saturday, December 12 to capture images of the Zoo's animals and lush landscaping 2 hours before our normal opening time. Take advantage of morning lighting and cooler weather and get memorable shots of some of the Zoo's early risers as they start their day. Ticket holders will have access to the Zoo's public grounds and exhibits starting at 7:00 a.m., two hours before the zoo opens to the public. Attendees are invited to participate in scheduled activities or you can just roam the Zoo grounds at your leisure, taking photos of all that the Zoo has to offer, until our normally scheduled closing time of 6:00 p.m. A continental breakfast and all-day access to the Zoo are included. Photo Day Ticket Prices: Adult Member : $25.00 Child/Senior/Student Member : $15.00 Adult Non-Member : $30.00 Child/Senior/Student Non-Member : $20.00 Children under 4 FREE Special photography presentation...

Naming Opportunities

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:29:51 GMT

Houston Zoo African Forest Capital Campaign Naming Opportunities, Phase I The African Forest Name the entire African Forest (Phase I) for the life of the exhibit. $20,000,000 African Marketplace Plaza Forest visitors browse for gifts from all over the world and enjoy casual dining in a unique setting with a spectacular view of giraffes. $2,000,000 African-Themed Restaurant This restaurant will give guests the opportunity to dine al fresco while surrounded by exotic animals. $1,500,000 Interpretive Graphics Exciting graphics will be located throughout the exhibit and will enhance the educational aspects of the Forest exhibit. $1,500,000 Rhino Viewing Area This is the primary location for viewing the Zoo’s rhino exhibit. $1,000,000 Pygmy Village and Campground This safari camp will add an important cultural component, including African art, history, and folklore. It will also allow the Zoo to host more overnight Scout,...

Holidays at the Houston Zoo

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:05:38 GMT

Two new exciting ways to celebrate the holidays with the Houston Zoo! Sounds of the Season and Tree Trimming! Houston Zoo’s Community and Corporate Tree Trimming Community Trees (Individuals, Families, Neighbors) and Corporate and Organization Trees Get in the Holiday Spirit! Gather family, friends and neighbors or employees or organization members and create a holiday memory that will last a lifetime while supporting the animals at the Houston Zoo. Your Holiday Tree will be on display to the over 125,000 guests that come to the Houston Zoo during the month of December. Community Trees $75 What you get A 6’ real tree provided by the Houston Zoo A sign recognizing your family or group Listing on the Houston Zoo web site with photo 10 Zoo passes good through the month of December Corporate Trees $150 What you get: A 6’ real tree provided by the Houston Zoo A sign recognizing your company or...

Feast with the Beasts 2009

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:34:18 GMT

The Houston Zoo's 4th Annual Food & Drink Celebration Friday, November 6, 2009 7:00 - 11:00 p.m. Thank you to everyone who attended Feast with the Beasts! We'll see you next year! Thanks to everyone who has purchased tickets to the biggest Fall fundraising event for the Houston Zoo. Money raised helps support the care and feeding of the over 4,500 animals that call Houston Zoo home. Ticket for the Fall 2010 Feast with the Beasts will go on sale in August 2010, Make sure you subscribe to the Houston Zoo e-mail newsletter to get information on how to purchase tickets early. Featuring 50 of Houston’s hottest restaurants and a live performance by Big Bad Voodoo Daddy on the Bud Light Stage! A generous thank you to our 2009 Sponsors. 2009 Beastly Battle Winners: First Place: Gumbo Bar - Galveston Island Second Place: Taste of Texas Third Place: The Capital Grille Launched in the fall of 2006 as a fundraiser for the Houston Zoo, Feast with the...

Adults Volunteer Openings

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:10:32 GMT

Current Volunteer Positions Available Contact Yard Assistant Interact with guests of all ages in the Zoo’s contact yard. You enrich the lives not only of our guests, but those of our goats and sheep, in the contact yard. This area includes direct animal contact. Requirements: Specific training by the staff service area lead. Negative TB Test Result. Education Program Assistant Assist Zoo education staff by preparing crafts, acting as a teacher’s aide in classes and programs, and assisting with overnight and evening programs. You may also assist with our seasonal camp and school groups. Requirements: Training provided on-site. Guest Services One of our top priorities at the Zoo is to deliver an outstanding experience to our guests. Volunteers contribute to this by dressing in animal costumes, answering questions, greeting guests throughout the zoo, and providing general assistance. Requirements: Specific training by the staff service area lead if needed. ...

ExxonMobil Scout Wild Winks

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:03:09 GMT

Join us for an exciting look at the zoo after hours. Through guided tours in the evening and early morning, you will explore the diverse adaptations that help the zoo's amazing creatures survive in the wild. Get the inside scoop on our animals from zoo employees and get up close and personal with a zoo resident. (All participants must be at least 7 years old. All children must be accompanied by an adult at a minimum of a 1:5 ratio of adults to children.) The ExxonMobil Scout Wild Wink overnight programs are generously supported by ExxonMobil. What's Included: interactive, educational activities guided walks with experienced Zoo staff live, touchable animals dinner and continental breakfast slumber inside the Zoo. Weather permitting, participants will sleep in tents. free admission into the Zoo when program ends Note: While overnights include touchable animals, hands-on activities, and animal viewing guided by Zoo staff, there are no behind-the-scenes tours. ...

The Annual Drive to Support the Zoo

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 22:18:24 GMT

This Year Make a Lion's Day! Make a lion’s day, give a holiday gift to our king of the jungle and his friends. In this season of giving, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to the animals at the Zoo. Earlier this month, Jonathan received a very special gift thanks to donors like you! Read more... The Houston Zoo Animals Need You! The 4,500 animals that are entrusted to our care are some of the most magnificent creatures on earth. They help connect the public with nature and make the world of wildlife conservation accessible to people like you. As a non-profit, charitable organization, we rely on generous community support to care for these animals and to protect their wild cousins around the world. Please donate now; your gift, large or small, will make a big impact on our work here at the Zoo This year when you make a donation to the Annual Fund, your generosity will support: New animals — Help us bring new...