Teddy Bear Festival, but do you Respect the Bears?

Last weekend the San Francisco Zoo held an event called The Teddy Bear Festival.

I interpret this to be an event that celebrates the Bears that live at the Zoo.

A synonym for the word celebrate is the word honor. To honor, you must respect. To date, Wishbone the Andean Bear, still lives on concrete.

See http://projectgetwishbonegrass.blogspot.com

Above is a photo of a sign that hangs outside the Tropical Aviary, two exhibits over from Wishbone. This signs shows a new exhibit as "Coming Soon." A NEW exhibit, while old exhibits like Wishbone's need upgrading.

Wishbone has lived exclusively on concrete, baring a short time when he lived in the Grotto next to the one with the meadow, to which he had shared access. His living situation goes unrecognized as the Zoo Management hire (read pay) artists to render drawings like the one above to illustrate their future Master Plan.

Wishbone has needed grass landscaping brought into his home for years, why is this not part of the new Master Plan? Why is there no (grass) "Coming Soon" sign on his enclosure? Why, because there is obviously still NO plan to bring grass to Wishbone's home. I guess the Zoo's plan is to let him continue living on concrete for the rest of his life?

The "Coming Soon" exhibit is to provide a new, bigger home for the Squirrel Monkeys. My comments are in no way meant to take anything away from the Squirrel Monkeys, but to show the obvious and that is, whoever is making decisions, does not take the Animals into thought.

The Squirrel Monkeys have a home. Its also a home with greenery. This new home will also include a children's play area. Why is it more important to make a new and better home for a group of Animals who have an adequate home for now, while another Animal lives with a hard surface under his feet? Why is it more important to build a play area for a human, when an Animal lives on concrete? Is the San Francisco Zoo a human playground or an Animal Park?

I completely understand that some exhibits are funded by donor's for specific use. I do not know if that is the case with the money being used for the new Squirrel Monkey exhibit. My issue if this is the case, why aren't donor's approached to fund severely important things like getting grass for Wishbone? Why can't the Squirrel Monkey exhibit be done without the children's play area and that money go to get Wishbone grass? Then both Animals win. Do we really need to encourage more screaming children outside the exhibit (next to the coming soon play area) which houses two blind sea lions?

A further note on the Master Plan. I went to a Guardian Member Reception in November, where Director Tanya Peterson showed slides of this photo and more. I was appalled. I was appalled by two things. First, that there is a Master Plan for new exhibits while old ones need upgrading and second, that there were four! new children's play areas planned, again while existing Animal enclosures need help. I am sorry if those reading this have children and are pro there being more play areas, but honestly as stated above, this is an Animal Park. There is already a huge Playfield with more grass than any one Animal that lives at the Zoo has and Golden Gate Park is laden with playgrounds. When people bring children to the Zoo they should utilize the existing playground or spend their time there teaching their children about the Animals.

Also, note that the drawing for the new Squirrel Monkey exhibit shows white tree' structures?? Where in nature are there white trees? I think even the Director feels a need to sell this as she kept saying "Think modern. Think modern." Why should we think modern? This isn't a museum, this is an Animal Park and Animals don't live surrounded by white plastic looking tree's.

In summary. Creating new exhibits while this poor Bear feels nothing but concrete beneath his feet is a crime, is outrageous, is unacceptable and is disrespectful.

UPDATE 12.8.11

Please view the video on the last post projectgetwishbonegrass.blogspot.com

If you support this crusade, please email San Francisco Zoo Director Tanya Peterson - tanyap@sfzoo.org

Thank you!

Zoo Wall Spray Painted, Tapir Left Unprotected

UG, where do I begin. I hate feeling that I am being so judgmental, but seriously, too many issues that I have seem like common sense DOs & DON'Ts. I know common sense has fallen out of style in epidemic proportions, but I expect those with who hold jobs in which another life depends on their decisions and actions, to actually make responsible choices.

I used to frequent the San Francisco Zoo Facebook page, until a discussion about signage and security came up and I guess I offered too much advice on how to better the situation and not only were my posts removed, but I was somehow disabled from posting. Since then and having my Membership revoked (see sanfranciscozoocrime.blogspot.com) I don't bother to check out their FB too often, just as well they don't post too often.

Today was one of those times I did check-in there and they had photos (http://tinyurl.com/3uy59xy) of the artist who is painting a mural on east side of the Pachyderm building. The wall that borders Goober, the Baird Tapir's home.

The photos clearly state and show that the artist is using spray paint. They also clearly show that the artist is protected with face gear. The ground is clearly protected from splatter. It also clearly shows that THERE IS NO PROTECTION from splatter, residue or direct fumes, at the open area that leads into Goober's enclosure!!! The closest edge of the mural is about 4 feet from Goober's pool! Incredible. In a bad way.

I thought the mural was a nice addition (I do hope the artist puts a Goober in it!). In fact, I had suggested to Director Tanya Peterson almost two years ago, that they should get an art student to do some paintings. When they did and the project was started in Orkney's (Gray Seal) enclosure, I suggested a Pacific Coast mural (Octopus, starfish, ect), but instead he got clouds. My friend Lee and I also volunteered to paint Goober's area, at our own cost, but that was never responded to.

Anyway I digress. I like the mural, but now knowing spray paint was involved, I wish proper precaution was taken to protect one of the Zoo's most precious Residents.

It's always windy and I've used spray paint myself, it carries. Goober and his home should have been protected.

The mural still says "in progress", I hope the Zoo makes sure to find a tarp and cover the opening near the mural, when spray paint is being used.

Tapir Needs Clean Water!

It is UNACCEPTABLE for Goober, the Bairds Tapir to have such dirty water!!!

This is an open plea to the San Francisco Zoo Animal Management team, please make sure that the water in Goober's pool is changed more than once a day.

I understand that Tapirs are river animals who potty in the water, but Goober does not live in the wild AND he has mouth issues. He should NOT be continually orally taking in dirty water, laden with feces and urine.

You post a notice about his issue, yet his mouth constantly has dirty water flushing through it. We both KNOW this is a serious problem.

I have not been at the Zoo as often as I had been, but every weekend that I am there, his pool is filthy. Yesterday I was there in the late morning til closing and his water was horrible when I got there and horrible when I left. While the seals pool has a continuous flow of fresh water.

This is not a (too much) water usage issue either, as there is a constant flow of water over one of the walls in the Grizzly Grotto, that seems to just be a waste.

Goober is precious and deserves to swim in fresh water. When he goes under water and hangs out, he doesn't need to be submerged in filth.

Please help to prevent additional health issues and keep Goober's mouth clean and comfortable, by providing him with fresh water more than once a day.

DRAIN THAT DIRTY POOL AND KEEP IT CLEAN!!!


UPDATE: I talked to a Staffer who I trust and was told that the Tapir's pool only gets changed three (3) times a week!!! I think that's outrageous for the reasons stated above. This is a Management decision. It does seem curious as there are pools that get drained and changed daily all about the place, yet his is not a priority to change daily. Unfortunately I do not think this will change. Sorry my sweet Goob, I tired.

WOW! Chronicle quickly changed their tune!

How curious! Less than 8 hours after I posted what a horrible and irresponsible piece of writing Stephanie Lee of the San Francisco Chronicle put forth last night, there is a whole new article, with a whole different vibe. And, she did it by email. Interesting.

So, they did have a photo of Shastyuh (Martha) not snarling. YET last night's sensationalized article posted chose only to post two photos with a negative vibe. As well, last night's did not include any of the informative words from her Keeper, or positive's from Visitors.

Why was the article last night written in such a negative manner? When there was obviously positive photos and information available?

You can view the new article here:

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/cityinsider/detail?entry_id=91859


ADDED: Please note that the blog post prior to this, "Zoo "officials" fumble again", is the predecessor to this one.

Zoo "officials" fumble again

Welcome! Beautiful, Happy Girl! Shastyuh!

I have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of the new Siberian Tiger for months, since I heard of the acquisition through the grapevine.

Once I found out her name, I was able to do some research online and find out more about her. Shastyuh, is a ten year old female, gorgeous and a big fluffy scruff! I couldn't wait to meet her!

The news of the acquisition hadn't gotten around to many, so I had hoped the Zoo would make the transfer quietly and let her get settled without much fan-fare. Not because she didn't deserve to be celebrated, but because of the past I thought the obvious way to go, was low-key.

True to form (in my opinion) the Zoo "officials" team (PR I would assume) seems to like to take every opportunity at publicity, good or bad, just to get their name out there. News items in April of the Zoo's annual fundraiser Zoofest, it was reported that the Zoo had auctioned off the rights to rename Shastyuh, and therefore publicly announcing her impending arrival.

When I read this, I felt sick. I knew along with publicly announcing a new female Siberian, at every mention of this lovely new addition, her name would always be side by side with the fate of Tatiana, the female Siberian who preceded her at the Zoo. I didn't think Shastyuh or the Zoo needed this.

In my opinion, there was absolutely no reason to bring attention to her arrival. Other than to gain publicity. Last year the Zoo acquired a new female African Lion, there was no press release for her. The only reason is publicity and with the connection of the Tatiana event the Zoo knows they will always get it. Well San Francisco Zoo, is this the type of publicity you wanted?

I have been Googling news results waiting for something to appear, as Shastyuh has been out on exhibit three days now. I saw her yesterday and she is gorgeous and seems like a great soul. She was smiling and looked happy! Every photo I took of her she is smiling, with her little tongue hanging out! According to her Keepers, she is a playful girl and talks alot! She is still getting used to her new surroundings and has been alittle shy. You would not get any of this from the article I just read.

The online version of The San Francisco Chronicle just posted an article, written by Stephanie Lee, that featured a photo of Shastyuh (aka Martha her donor name) making a nasty face, that could be a snarl or the unfolding of a yawn. That photo sends a sensationalized message to feed off what I consider misleading journalism.

WHY would a journalist who I assume wants to be respected, want to keep riding the coat tails of an event that happened two and a half years ago, and in doing so with the wording and photo, create a negative surrounding this lovely animals arrival? It is pure irresponsibility.

Additionally it included statements from "Zoo officials, ... the staff was ready and the grounds secured."

WHY would the Zoo release statements that make it sound like up until now the Staff has been incapable and Zoo has been unsafe? The Zoo continually puts out curious statements, one would have to wonder what their thought process is.

I was disgusted by the whole thing.

You can read the article and view the photo here: ... my sweet pic is at the lead of this post.

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2011/06/27/BAB91K3C4N.DTL


ADDED: Please note the following post, "WOW! Chronicle quickly changed its tune!" It is a follow-up to this one.

The Hoofstock Shuffle

Early 2010, the San Francisco Zoo decided to put up gates to close off several paths. This made no sense to me. I asked around and got a few different answers as to why, which included, people complained there were too many exhibits with no animals, too far to walk with no exhibits and not enough staff to keep the area maintained.

The paths that were closed were: from the back side of Chimps, past Black Swans (who have since moved to the Puente), to the Indian Rhino; from Cats, past the Dukiers, Muntjac, and Black Buck, to the Grizzly Bears; and from the Black Buck field (above the Lion Fountain), past the opposite side of the Dukiers, to the Warthogs. As you can see all these paths have (exception now is Black Swan) Animals living in these exhibits. Additionally contrary to explanations, closing the path from Cats to Bears creates a farther distance for those with walking disabilities.

As a big fan of the Black Buck named Pokemon, I was really bummed that I wouldn't be able to see him, or any of the other Hoofstock that live along these paths. In a conversation with a Keeper I noted my grief and was told that these closures were especially bad because both the Black Swans and Pokemon love to see people. The Black Swan has since moved to the Puente, but Pokemon has been left to only see the Keepers a few times a day. He otherwise has no visitors. This is cruel in my opinion, as this is an animal who has been so imprinted by humans, that he can not be housed with other animals, so they only gratifying visual contact he gets is those few visits a day from Keepers.

Some Docent friends of mine told me that they were allowed to bring tours beyond the gates, so before getting my Membership revoked (I wouldn't dare ask for this privilege now), I was lucky that I've been able to visit with Pokemon. The first few times, he was no where to be seen. When I asked about this, I was told by a Keeper, "He knows no one walks back there so he doesn't bother to come down (from the far area where his shed is)". Thankfully the last time I was able to go back, I saw him up by his shed and called a hello out to him. He came running to the fence! It made me cry. He was so happy to see me (someone). I talked to him for about 20 minutes and I felt horrible leaving while he was still standing at the fence, craving attention. I do not advocate calling out to the animals, but for Pokemon, just to see people is something he needs, so saying "Hi Pokemon" to alert him I was there and wanted to see him, was an innocent exception.

At one of the Park and Recreation Commission Meeting's last year (video clip available online, will find it and post link) the San Francisco Zoo Director Tanya Peterson, excitedly shared the news of the birth of a baby Dukier. She went on to add that right now its hard to see because of the species nature, but that she hoped it would be visible soon. VISIBLE to whom? The path is closed! Now whether it was her intention to say she hopes she will see it soon, or that was an veiled invite for committee members to view it soon, this is a public meeting, so to me this was a statement that the public would be able to see it soon, otherwise this is an knowingly false statement put forth to the Commission.

When the first (that I've seen) Dukier baby was born in December 2009, it was so exciting to try and catch a glimpse of him. I loved going by there and visiting with the family. With the second baby, its over a year old and I've never seen it.

After the arrival of Tucker the Hippo, I contacted Animal Care and Control Chair Sally Stephens, who is present at all the Joint Zoo Committee Meetings. I have gone to many Meetings in the past and found her to be one of the only people on the panel who ask questions. I emailed her with the Tucker concern that prompted the correspondence and distressing issue regarding the recent transfer of the female (mother) Dukier Lily, to the Savannah. It didn't seem right to separate her from her family and move her to the Savannah, where she would not only be away from her long-time mate, but the only animal of her species living there. Ms. Stephens brought forth this concern to the Zoo and they answered that she was moved to prevent her from getting pregnant again. I later discussed this answer with Ms. Stephens and she like I was curious then why Lily wasn't put on birth control. Ms. Stephens failed to follow-up on this at the next meeting, even though I emailed her a reminder.

So, Lily has been living on the Savannah now for almost six months and the only time I have seen her is once as she ran to the barn at closing time. Others has said they seen her a couple times, huddled against the wall under an overhang. Horrible. Why can't she be implanted with a birth control? Every other non-breeding female is. If for some reason this is not possible, then why move her solo to a huge area inhabited by many other species she is not familiar with? Why wasn't the better choice to leave her where she was and move two males to the Savannah together? If she can't be with her mate, at least give her the comfort of her known surroundings. To shuffle her to some place she is unfamiliar with AND alone, is cruel.

Last night I was told that the new Dukier plan is to move the father and son temporarily into the Warthog (sadly the male passed a couple weeks ago) exhibit. TEMPORARILY? Why? Evidently the Zoo is awaiting approval to bring in a new species for that exhibit, so until then I guess they want to fill it? Leave no exhibit empty? If so, that sounds like a very casual reason, as this would involve uprooting these animals, to just put them back later? Unless since the Zoo is still planning to move forward with their Master Plan that includes a new "Americas" area, they are displacing the Hoofstock that live along that path to make way for construction? I have heard that the young Muntjac was moved back to the field with its father, after the passing of the senior female Black Buck that also lived there. Another sad move, as even though Pokemon can't live with other animals, he was next to Baby Jac. So with moving the Dukiers (who were directly across from Pokemon), now as well, Pokemon is the only Animal who will be living on that path.

Moving forward with this Master Plan is a big FAIL while there are still existing enclosures that need renovation. See the post, Project Get Wishbone Grass. In addition there are two other completely cement Bear (Polar) Grotto's that could use some landscaping. I also have an idea to combine two of the three Chimp Grotto's to make one huge area, and when that is done, joining the front area to them. The Chimp area would end up three times the size. San Francisco Zoo, THOSE renovations SHOULD BE your new Master Plan!

Pictured: Pokemon!

Project Get Wishbone Grass!

I'd like to see Wishbone enjoy grass again!

Project Get Wishbone Grass actually has its own blog www.projectgetwishbonegrass.blogspot.com I am adding a post on this site as it is the companion site to Project Get Wishbone Grass, in that the Mission for both sites is to bring awareness to certain curious issues at the San Francisco Zoo.

The issue that is Project Get Wishbone Grass, is beyond curious in that in my opinion its cruel. Please note that I have no issue with the level of care the Animals at the San Francisco Zoo get from their Keepers, but there are decisions that are made at the level above Keeper that I have a problem with.

Wishbone the Andean Bear is I believe the only Animal living at the San Francisco Zoo that lives exclusively on concrete. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE!!!

I know for a fact that one Keeper has tried to get him (and his passed companion Annie) on a rotation with the Grizzly Grotto/Gulch area that both contain grass and allegedly those attempts have been foiled by those above.

I know for a fact that higher levels, including Management, San Francisco Zoological Board Members Nick Podell and David Stanton, San Francisco Park and Recreation Commissioner Larry Martin, and San Francisco Animal Welfare and Control Chair and Joint Zoo Committee Member Sally Stephens, are all aware of this issue, as I personally have sent them this situation in detail. What I sent them appears on the Project Get Wishbone Grass Blog.

Please visit www.projectgetwishbonegrass.blogspot.com for all the details. There is a collection of recent photos of Wishbone on my photo site, www.gooberssfzoofriends.shutterfly.com

The Contents of this Blog

When I started this Blog and the companion one, Project Get Wishbone Grass, I had a list of things I wanted to address. I had planned to post them periodically so as not to seem exclusively negative about the San Francisco Zoo. Which I am not.

After the event this past Saturday, and the amount of comments I have put forth on that single issue, I'm exhausted. The Zoo drama is emotionally exhausting and time consuming with thought and expression. I do have other things I need to do, but my Zoo friends are so precious to me, that I can't help but speak out in their defense. So, I will be making one more post and I surely hope that will be all for awhile.

The reason I am moving forward with posting about this one issue is that it was THE reason I started the blogs in which FAILS are brought to light and so maybe they will be turned into WINS! Bringing them to light aka making them public, may be the only way they get recognized by the Zoo and changes are made. The Zoo is aware of these issues, yet has chosen to do nothing about them. Management needs to make better decisions for the Zoo to thrive and be all that it can be. The issue to bring a grass landscaping to the Andean Bear Grotto, is something I think should be a top priority, if not THE priority for the San Francisco Zoo. Please read the following post, Project Get Wishbone Grass, that synopsizes this Bears situation.

Animal Safety Suggestions

I'm going to post a bit on Signage and other Suggestions I have made to San Francisco Zoo Director Tanya Peterson as early as two years ago. I had planned this post (as well as others) prior to the events of this past Saturday. Today, I feel that I should let this particular subject go, as the Zoo is now aware of this issue and all that is left is for them to make changes, but equally that it be known there are more ways to help deter Visitor misbehavior than they are seemingly willing to do.

I was there on Christmas Day 2007. I have two places I visit on the Holidays, the Zoo is one of them. I decided to go to the Zoo first, had I not, that would have put me at the Big Cat Grotto's near the end of the day around 4ish. This was the time when it has been reported that the Brothers were seen heckling the Lions (prior to moving on to the Tigers). I have always thought if I had been there I would have said something to them or alerted a Staff Member and would have hoped that horrible event would have been prevented and Tatiana would still be alive. In hindsight to the handling of the event this past Saturday, I'm not so confident anything would have been different. Obviously, they would have gotten a warning and been left to continue on their way.

In 2009, a man was able to get into the Grizzly Bear Grotto. I DO NOT hold the Zoo responsible to the Tiger attack or this event, because you can't think ahead and safeguard from all an evil mind can think of. If someone could, there would be no crime. BUT there were two things I immediately thought of when I heard of the Grizzly Bear incident. Things that in hindsight of the Tiger incident, someone on Staff should have thought of. Its their jobs and they had two years to think about it.

I was in an open correspondence with Director Peterson at this time and sent off an email on the spot. I was horrified that one of our precious Grizzlies could have lost their lives because of human misbehavior. I noted and questioned two things specifically in hindsight of the Tiger event. The first was questioning Why? are Visitors allowed to be in the far reaches (Bears) of the Zoo near closing time? The second, Why? is the Zoo even open in the til 5p when its starting to get dark earlier?

The way the Zoo is set-up, it takes about fifteen minutes to cross the entire Zoo. In my opinion there is no reason that Visitors are not escorted towards the center area (Cats and Penguins) at least a half hour prior to closing and no reason anyone should be past Primates/Flamingos later than fifteen minutes before closing. There is no (at the time/often now) constant Security loop and definitely no presence at the far end the last open hour. Even in the days following the Grizzly event there wasn't much change. The day after I went there and stayed til closing specifically to see if there were any changes. They had a Security guard standing outside the Grizzlies just staring into the Grotto. What good is that going to do? Maybe prevent a copycat, but what really are the odds of that? As well, the most important point, this guard walked the Bear Grotto corridor at 4:20p and then left. So, again Visitors were left to wander near closing time.

Regarding the time of day the Grizzly incident took place, which was in the closing hour, like the Tiger incident, the prior mention of Visitors still roaming the far reaches is the main thing but my other concern was the time, since day light savings time was approaching. The Grizzly incident happened in late September, but it does start getting dark earlier and by the following month, with the time change, it will be dark at 5p. The Zoo should close at 4p during these times.

These suggestions were sent to Director Peterson and three days later I went to the monthly Joint Zoo Committee Meeting, where Director Peterson announced that the Zoo would like approval of the Park and Rec to adopt Winter Hours at the Zoo, closing at 4p during winter months. THANK YOU!

I am glad to have suggested that and to have had it have an impact, but that along with other things I have suggested, the question begs, why are people on Staff not thinking of these things?

Signage. Two years ago, the Respect the Animal signs that are decently visible today, were not so much. I suggested there be more signs and at all the enclosures, not just sporadically placed about. That happened, although on not a wide enough scale, but at least there are more postings. I would still like to see window clings at the Big Cat and Snow Leopard full length windows, not to Knock, Kick, Rap, Tap, ... but those suggestions are still in the wind. The ARC (Animal Resource Center) had a great one posted on the window where the Alligator and Turtles live. It listed about twenty offenses not to do. Curiously it didn't last long, and I immediately wondered if Management made them take it down.

Other suggestions I had dealt with verbally explaining to Visitors about Respecting the Animals. This included two different approaches but both that could be very helpful in deterring misbehavior. One costs nothing, the other would cost something, but I don't believe so much that it would not be doable and considering it would help to keep the Animals safe, that should be worth it. To me, in light of the events of 2007 and 2009, and the continued misbehavior on the part of so many Visitors, the San Francisco Zoo needs to think outside the normal box of what is done in other Zoo's. I feel that this Zoo, has special circumstances and should react in light of them, instead of ignore them. The Safety of the Animals should be paramount, as this is their home and there is a Law to back that up.

I think that Entry Village should be the starting point for education on behavior. The respect the Animal signs should be posted 360 so they are not missed.

I think holding entrance to the Zoo at intervals of 10 minutes, (much like an amusement park ride) while a video plays at the Gate House that talks about how to behave while a guest in the place where the Animals live. It could also include short bio's of the Animals, so not to be only viewed with a negative message. "While you're at the Zoo, make sure to visit, .... and remember, you are a guest in these Animals home, so please do not,...." Even having the person who takes the tickets give the short speech would work.

I think there should also be the same type video (adding more of the Animals since the viewing time would be longer) on loop in the Cafe. This is where people sit for extended amounts of time. There is no reason why a message can't be sent using this forum.

I have heard that two weeks ago they have started having Security talk to the school groups about Respecting the Animals. This is a great step (not sure why it too so long to implement), but honestly the misbehavior I see are mostly actions by adults. The talks need to extend to all Visitors, and adding the video on loop would be a big help.

These suggestions were sent to Director Peterson two years ago, but I also posted them to the Zoo's Facebook in February when a Visitor posted suggesting they have a disclosure about being Kind to the Animals. One of the Zoo's response's to the poster was "we do have a prominent "Respect the Animals" sign at the ticket/gate house and throughout the Zoo. There is also a Zoo Manners section on the map. Additionally, there is a sign at the front gate about the new State Law. ... We definitely want visitors to see and know that they need to "respect the animals. .... the Zoo is committed to enforcing respectful behavior." Their other response was to delete my posts with suggestions and ban me from being able to comment on their Facebook page. I ask the Zoo, "How is letting a Visitor throw something at an Animal, enforcing respectful behavior?"

Supervisor Sean Elsbernd, worked hard to get the Law to Protect the Animals in our City Parks (not just the Zoo) amended in direct reaction to the insanely ridiculous verdict handed down by the judge in the Grizzly case. He should be offended that the Zoo is not at the very least upholding that Law by ejecting offenders.

My final word on this subject (at least all the I got for now!) is that the Zoo needs to make good on the part of their Mission that states they "inspire caring for nature" and start educating those who walk through the gates how exactly that is done, by telling them what behavior is unacceptable and that they will be punished accordingly if caught disrespecting the Animals. They then of course have to act accordingly themselves and eject all offenders. Warning time needs to be over. The word needs to get out, that this kind of behavior will not be tolerated at the San Francisco Zoo.

Why us?

Why are we always the ones to witness such awful behavior? It is not always even behavior as offensive as this. Yesterday I also saw someone spit a loogy (sp?) onto a tree at the Rhinos, so big it was dripping like a glob of tinsel on a Christmas Tree. Truly disgusting, I felt like vomiting. The Zoo spends money to employ a great landscaping team, who plants and cares to make the grounds nice. Would these people like someone to come and spit in their home? or garden? WHAT is wrong with people?

I see a wide variety of misconduct everywhere I go, but I've narrowed down my true disgust to situations involving animals and where they live.

Who are all the rest of the people who see this misbehavior and say nothing? Is everyone else a coward or do they not even notice because they too are despicable and think its acceptable behavior? Because in regard to yesterday, out of 30+ people, we were the only ones horrified AND I was the only one who went to report this behavior to help my Chimp friends. Why do people who don't respect animals, come to the Zoo?

The event that happened yesterday at the Chimpanzee enclosure was horrifying on a few levels.
*The abusers thought it was acceptable to visit an animal park and terrorize the Animals who live there.
*The other Visitors, joined in by finding humor in this behavior and outwardly displaying it by adding to the laughter and heckling.
*The San Francisco Zoo Staff did nothing.

I am a believer in the thought that, everything happens for a reason. There was a reason we witnessed this event yesterday. How it developed and how it was handled has a direct connection to the situation regarding the revoking of the Memberships of Lee and I. If you aren't familiar with this situation, please read the blog, www.sanfranciscozoocrime.blogspot.com

Lee reported witnessing a Visitor who had been over a barrier at the Bear Grottos. This report when all was said and done, resulted in both our Memberships being revoked. The Zoo for whatever reasons (my true suspicions will eventually be made public) fabricated a story saying that "I had admitted to calling in a prank call." Obviously that statement alone is ridiculous, but I'll move on.

Yesterday, we and everyone else, witnessed a Visitor throw an object AT an Animal Resident. For this action, the man received a "warning."

So, to sum up, we report misbehavior and get our Memberships revoked, our names slandered and our reputations at a place we loved ruined, BUT someone actually assaults an Animal Resident verbally and with intent to do physical harm, and they get a warning? Was this offender asked if he was a Member? If he was, would his Membership have been revoked? The answer is a BIG FAT NO!

The way the San Francisco Zoo is being run, is becoming in my opinion, a bigger joke by the Visit. I commend them on one thing of recent, giving the Sea Lions Henry and Silent Knight forever homes. With that I have to say, if this City expects to have a Zoo for these Seals to live at forever, there needs to be a serious restructuring in Management at the San Francisco Zoo, because the current Team appears to be ruining what could be the best place in the City.

Note: Please expand all comments that follow this post. The type appears small and sometimes important information is added that can go unnoticed. Thank you.

NEWS for today - Zoo Management Lets Visitors Abuse the Animals!

Before starting an on going posting thread of issues as they happen, I had a series of topics I wanted to address in this blog that have been outstanding for some time, BUT I witnessed something at the Zoo today that I'm still shaken about.

Evidently (from what I witnessed today) The San Francisco Zoo Management and Security, allow Visitors to Abuse the Animals without any repercussion.

Before I relay the chain of events, please note that if this is your first read of something I've written San Francisco Zoo related, please read the Welcome post on this blog, which will link you to some information about my connection to the Zoo.

When my friend Lee and I arrived at the Zoo today, we stopped at the Chimps as we usually do. Cobby (the male) was the only one out and he was lounging in the sun enjoying himself. We always stop to see the Chimps on the way out as well, and Cobby was still the only one out. There was no sun now, but he was lounging peacefully, with his head tilted up and back to where you could see his eyes.

At first it was only Lee and I, but then a "family" group strolled up and stopped at the center of the enclosure. One of the men came and stood near me, on the side Cobby was. The man, yes a grown man, immediately started making Ape sounds at Cobby. He then heckled back and forth with the other man in his group about whether it was an Orangutan or,... Once that nonsense was over, they both continued with the Ape sounds until Cobby noticed them.

Once Cobby noticed them, the man next to me moved over to the center to join his group. I could see Cobby grab a blue plastic goblet, that is probably an item used as part of a food enrichment. I knew what was going to happen next, because I know Cobby. He can get very upset.

Note that all four Chimps that live at the Zoo in this enclosure together are between 50-60 years old. So, upsetting them is like terrorizing a Senior Citizen.

Cobby then looked my way and then looked to the center. I know he knew I didn't make those noises at him. He zero'd in on the abusers and started vocalizing and swinging his arms from side to side, which is a sign of agitation. His gesturing and vocals increased, to the delight of the abusers, who kept laughing at him and heckling. At this point there was a crowd growing, as Cobby threw the goblet at the abusers! Much like the Tatiana (Tiger) event, these animals know who is the ones abusing them.

After giving Cobby a mental high-five, I was walking away from the area, but there was such a commotion with the crowd which had grown to about 30+ and Cobby screaming, that I stayed to make sure he was ok.

The abusers and the crowd were further delighted by the throw.!? Then the one who was standing next to me who had gotten Cobby upset to the point he retaliated, picked up the goblet and threw it back, at Cobby! I was appalled! I didn't think THAT was going to be the next move or I would have video taped it.

Ever since, the Zoo revoked our Memberships and slandered us, I deleted the reporting number off my phone and I don't say anything about anything that people do there AND I see alot! Lee reported a barrier crossing at Bears and we were both nailed to the stake and branded public enemy number one for following the Zoo's request to report such sightings. We say nothing! BUT once that man threw something at Cobby, I could not, NOT say something!

I told Lee to stay there and take photos of the abusers and situation, in case they left before I could find someone to tell. Note that since the Zoo has ruined our reputation there, we get the stink eye from everyone in Management, Security and other assorted followers, so approaching anyone on their team that is not still a friend (which really only includes a handful of Keepers) is a big deal for me to do. I don't even like looking at these people who have treated us so horrible, but one of my Zoo Animal friends was being abused and I couldn't stand by without saying something.

I stopped the Cafe Manager (Kim I think) and asked her to radio Security to Chimps, someone had upset Cobby and when he threw something out, the abusers further abused by throwing it back at him. She jumped into action and let me say that of the four Staff Members who were eventually involved, she was the only one who seemed to really care about Cobby.

I went back to Chimps and the crowd was even bigger and the abusers were still laughing and heckling! Now, the three Chimp ladies were out screaming too and trying to calm Cobby down. Amazing how a crowd of adults who paid to come into a place where animals live, found such humor in seeing the animals in distress.

When Security Staffer Eddie arrived I told him what happened. I stood there while he just glanced around looking at the crowd. I pointed out the abusers and showed a photo. Still he made no attempt to approach them AND they were all still laughing.

When the abusers started to leave the area and walked by us, I said to Eddie, "Them." He still said nothing to them, until the guy who started the whole scene, turned and looked at me as I was pointing out all the people in his group. He said something to me that indicated a questioning of why I was pointing them out. I said, "You started this whole thing. You got Cobby so upset that he threw something and then you threw it back at him." To which the abuser said, "Well what was I supposed to do?" !!! I replied, "Um, act like an adult and let someone know." He responded that I was "disrespecting him." Disrespecting him? He's an adult who just threw an object at an Animal Resident in its home. I said, "You started it when you were over next to me, making Ape sounds that got him upset. There's a sign right there with a finger to the lips, that means to keep quiet." At that point, knowing how the Zoo twists truths, I said, "I'm not saying anything else to you, Security will talk to you." I then went and stood on the side.

Guest Services Staffer Walker and IT guy Robert, joined Eddie and (Kim). After barely words, the abusers walked off!!! I went up to Eddie and said, "So, they throw something at an animal and they just get to continue on their way?" He said, "I gave them a warning." !!! A warning? Is he kidding me? These abusers should have been thrown out. I asked him further about this, to which he said, "I don't make the rules." SO, once again the San Francisco Zoo FAILS!

I have been privy to other instances where offenders haven't been thrown out AND if they are, the Zoo gives them their money back! Which makes me feel like its sending the message, Hey, come abuse our animals and we'll pay you to do it! Today's message was, "Hey come abuse our animals and then we'll point you in the direction of even more animals for you to abuse." Nice going San Francisco Zoo!

This was sickening. I was sad and horrified! I was so worked up by the episode, I had palpitations, my chest was tight and felt like crying, that Cobby was abused in this way while lounging peacefully in his home. AND that the Zoo Team did nothing about it.

How is it people who work in an animal environment can condone not being more strict with people who abuse the animals who live there?

Last year Supervisor Sean Elsbernd was instrumental in pushing the amendment to legislation regarding the animals who live at the Zoo and in our Parks. I had a copy of the full Law as Code, but will have to search for it and post another time. This is a snip from an article regarding the new law.

You can read more details on my Zoo Friends Blog
http://gooberssfzoofriends.blogspot.com/search?q=elsbernd

That documented, HOW can the Zoo just let those abusers continue on with their visit?

Note: Please expand all comments that follow this post. The type appears small and sometimes important information is added by myself and other posters, that can go unnoticed. Thank you. ... Please read the accompanying post titled "Why us." ... In light of some people having a posting issue, please know that I have published all the comments submitted. If you have a comment and are having trouble you can contact me via the about.me link on the right hand side.

Name Changing

Hey San Francisco Zoo,
My name is Tucker!
I will not be your beard!

The first thing I'm going to post about is something that has long bothered me in a certain situation and is timely, as its hit the news recently.

Changing an Animal Residents Name.

As a City native, I had been a San Francisco Zoo Member for most of my adult life (on and off for over twenty years). I continue to be a Visitor. In 2008 when the Sumatran Tiger cubs were born, I had a job that allowed me to visit as often as I wanted. That want was about three times a week, as I thought it was an amazing experience to be able to see these babies up-close and watch them grow.

It was during their early days that I learned about the naming of the Zoo Animals. In their case, their names were auctioned off and the highest bidder was able to name them. These little exotic creatures ended up with the names, Courtney, Mark, and (some other equally common name). I didn't care much for the names, in respect to an Animal, just because they didn't seem to fit them, but I didn't have any problem with the circumstance they received them. They were newborns with no pre-existing names and the Zoo raised money.

These three boy names, were the Cublets "public" names, while the Keepers picked names for them that reflected their heritage. When the Cublets were almost one year old, they moved to the Akron Zoo. The Zoo held a contest asking the public to vote whether they should keep their given names, or be renamed. The vote was overwhelming towards keeping the beautiful names the Keepers who raised them bestowed. You can read about Jae-Jae, Kami Sambol, and Burung on my blog
http://gooberssfzoofriends.blogspot.com search "cublets".

At that time I learned about "public (donor)" and "house (given)" names. There were a handful of Animals living at the Zoo who had both. As far as I know all the Animals with "public" names, are referred to by their "house" or given name, by their Keepers. Knowing this, like with auctioning off the name of a newborn to raise money, I had no issue with the name changes. Until now.

Recently The San Francisco Zoo held its annual ZooFest fundraiser. Don't get me wrong, I think fundraising is a big core to the Zoo thriving, I just really have an issue with this one aspect.

In addition to auctioning off the renaming of the ten year old Siberian Tiger Shastyuh (who will join the Zoo in June and who is NOT white as the Zoo's own Director Tanya Peterson thinks), the Zoo's new Nile Hippopotamus Tucker was renamed, Brian Wilson "the Beard". THIS is what I have a problem with.

FYI For those who don't live in San Francisco and/or aren't Giants Baseball Fans, this is the given name and nickname for the Team's Pitcher.

I find the action and the nickname, not only offensive, but it hurts me. Honestly, just writing about it makes me feel physically sick. Unlike the other Animals who have had their names auctioned off to the highest bidder, but who are still referred to by their given names by those who care for them, Tucker has not been given the same respect.

Tucker (I believe) is the only animal who has a given name that he knows and responds to, who doesn't get the respect of being addressed by it. He has been disrespected to the point that the San Francisco Zoo Team, down to his Keepers, do not even use his given name. This poor being, has not had his name used by even those who care for him, since he arrived at the San Francisco Zoo. Whoever made this decision, should be ashamed. Its truly disgusting. Tucker was born at the Disney Animal Kingdom and I believe given the name Tucker. I believe he lived there the first six years of his life. He has been called by this name and trained by this name.

I was contacted by a gal who was an intern at the Topeka Zoo last summer and she gave me some wonderful insight to Tucker and confirmed that he did indeed know his name!

I asked Hoofstock Keeper Sarah King if he would be called Tucker by the Animal Staff and was told "No". She followed that by saying none of the Animals know their names. EXCUSE me? I have heard Keepers use the Animals names and they respond. Most currently, the Keepers taking care of the new Seal Lions are training them using the names given to them only less than six months ago by staff at the Marine Mammal Center for not only respect, but for training purposes. AND I have also heard Keeper Sarah King, call to the Giraffes in her care, using their names. Additionally, if they didn't know their names, then why does she use their given names and not their public names when calling to them?

I heard one of Tucker's Keepers call him, "handsome" (YES he is!, but that's besides the point) and the Hoofstock Curator, Jim Nappi call him "buddy", to which Tucker seemingly ignores and walks off. Hello, try using his name! This poor animal hasn't had anyone who cares for him use his name in the five months since he's lived at the Zoo. How would you feel to not have anyone address you by name for almost half a year? It makes me want to cry for him. He is precious and deserves more respect than he's been given.

A name is your identity. I'm all about them raising money, but why does it have to be at the expense of disrespecting an animal. How would they like to change their name? Their kids names? How about thinking up more creative ways to raise money? Like taking a stand (both physically at the event and in position of respecting the animals) at ZooFest and talking about the Animal in reference, its personality, its background, its native heritage and asking for a sponsorship of the Animal, instead of changing its name? The people who go to ZooFest I would hope are Animal lover's and not just people who want to show up at a Society function. That said, these should be people who want to help regardless of whether they get to name the Animal. Offering to have a small plaque at their enclosure "Sponsored by,..." goes further for philanthropic recognition than a name.

With all that said, I must also say that from the perspective of a Visitor, I have to wonder if the people who win these naming rights bids, even visit the Zoo? I sometimes feel like ZooFest is a party where rich people get together and after a few drinks, toss around some money and without even thinking about the Animal, give it some name, that may or may not have sentimental meaning to them, or in Tucker's case, some ridiculous name?

I apologize, this is not meant to offend, but seriously San Francisco Zoo Board Member Mark Roberts who won the bid and picked this horrible name, did you think at all about the poor animal you were bestowing this on? Anyone associated with the Zoo should know (as would anyone who picked up a newspaper) that this Animal came to the Zoo with a name, why not care enough to do some research and find out about his name and that it was his given name. Think to respect him by donating to his care and choosing to keep the name he's had all his life.

The real problem in all this, lies with the San Francisco Zoo Management. They are the ones who created the guidelines and who stole Tucker's name from him. There is absolutely no reason why, Tucker could not have been referred to by his given and known name by those who care for him and later be known publicly by this ridiculous name. NO REASON for this DISRESPECT!


Note: Please expand all comments that follow this post. The type appears small and sometimes important information is added by myself and other posters, that can go unnoticed. Thank you.

Welcome - Mission of this Blog

If you are happening on to this blog without having knowledge of my connection to the San Francisco Zoo, please visit www.sanfranciscozoocrime.blogspot.com if you are interested in more background information.

Also note, that this blog goes hand in hand with one titled, Project Get Wishbone Grass, www.projectgetwishbonegrass.blogspot.com (This blog is not yet public) The missions are a bit different, but the subject matter is the same. To bring public awareness to things I believe are just not right. ... There may be some duplicate wording in the Welcome posts on the both these blogs. That is so they can stand alone if someone read them independently.

For a good part of the past two years I had an open (and seemingly welcomed) correspondence with the Director of the San Francisco Zoo, Tanya Peterson, to submit ideas, comments and concerns. That has since changed, but my dedication to the Animals there has not. I love my Zoo friends as you can see if you visit any of my sites dedicated to them. I will provide links on the right hand side bar soon. Til then you can view at www.gooberssfzoo.blogspot.com Please visit them and learn more about the wonderful Animals who call the Zoo home. Then patron the Zoo and see them in person.

As a frequent visitor, there is often curious things that go on at the Zoo. There was a time, prior to the events of the past couple months, where I could ask a number of people on Staff questions, and most of the time get satisfactory answers. Now that is not something I feel comfortable doing.

This blog will be dedicated to things I find curious or worse, based on an emotional level to which I am tied to the Animals that call the Zoo home. I am not an animal care professional, I am just someone one, who cares about animals. I do not think that holding a job in animal care means you know all. I would hope it would, but I've learned it does not. I believe I have spent more time on Zoo grounds than any other visitor., in the past three years. After suffering a loss, I pretty much lived and breathed the Zoo. I have done more research than probably most of the Staff. Via my blogs, photo site and youtube videos, I have more Zoo related content online than the Zoo itself. I have defended the Zoo in many different online forums and by promoting my blog and sharing my Zoo knowledge, I have probably done more outreach as well. I have ID's behavior issues, new body marks, and other useful things to the Animal Staff, because I have watched the Animals so much I am familiar enough to do so. I ask valid questions of Staff and learn from them. That said, I can also spot short comings and as I call them, and I now call them out, FAILS.

Everything you will read in the posts on the blog are solely my opinion, hence I will often use the words, "I believe". I will post fact as fact when it is, I will note "allegedly" if its hearsay.

I never thought I would make things a public concern, but maybe its necessary. My goal is not to find fault with the Zoo Management, but in the past I have offered ideas and comments, some that fall under constructive criticism, all ignored. The Keeper and Vet Staff do an amazing job of caring for the Animals. The amount of senior Animals living at the Zoo is a testament to that. The Management, in my opinion, not so much.

I have spent extensive time on the Zoo grounds, so I have been privy to much information. Of course my concerns stem from the perspective of the Visitor and they are based on an emotional level most of the time. This does not mean they aren't logical or invalid.

Prior to this blog I have tried to convey my thoughts and concerns within Zoo walls, but that has not worked. I have contacted the Zoo Director and other VIPs, the later with no reaction.

Sadly my only conclusion is no one at higher levels within the Zoo Management, Zoological Society Board, Park and Recreation, or the City of San Francisco, care about what goes on at the Zoo. Preferring to let things ride status quo. I could understand this if the Zoo was the best that it could be, but its not. Its a great place that needs much fine tuning. I would love for the Zoo to be all that it can be, and that has always been why I've done all that I can, to help the Zoo thrive. Unfortunately to me (as Visitor) it appears the Zoo is a pet project for Society types, and other than the Keepers and Vets, no one seems to really to care. The Keepers and Vets do their jobs in caring for the Animals, but their hands are tied above that by those above them.

It is my hope that someday Management starts listening to those who actually care for and work with the Animals everyday. They don't seem to understand that without the Animals who live there, they would not have jobs there. A Zoo is a Zoo because there are Animals.