Animals Upset by Visitors Steps Away from Oblivious Staff

It happens again, OUTRAGEOUS! How will the Zoo deter this behavior? WILL the Zoo do anything TO deter this behavior?

As we turn the corner from the main part of the Zoo and end our visit with the Chimps, we thought we were home free. A visit without seeing misbehavior from humans against our precious Zoo friends. Could it be? Not a chance, unfortunately.

There is always some kind of misbehavior at the Chimps. Always. Humans for some reason feel the need to tickle their armpits and make oooo-ing sounds when they see Chimps. I don't get it, but I don't get the behavior of humans, much less the ones that pay to go to an Animal Park and then mess with the Animals, rather than observing and enjoying them just doing their thing.

I have noted before the desperate NEED at the San Francisco Zoo for more signage, to deter misbehavior. The Zoo continues, just continues to go along its merry little way thinking they are doing a bang up job in all aspects, including protecting the Animals. They are not. WHY can't there be more signage? Are they afraid of how it looks aesthetically? Are they afraid of offending Visitors with too many rules? What is the problem?

As a Visitor who is upset by this behavior and who thinks protecting the Animals should be primary, posting informational signs in a viewable area is a no-brainer. After all, part of the Zoo's Mission Statement is to "educate." So far, I see very little educating going on.

While on that note, I sure hope that the Docent led school tours, Zoo-Mobile Staff and Camp leaders, teach the children they speak to about Respecting Animals.

I must note that the majority of misbehavior is the actions of adults. Take the situation I witnessed yesterday. When I arrived at Chimps, all three females were lounging in the sun. The male (Cobby) was inside. There was a (human) family of rowdies already being loud and yelling things towards the Chimps. Whether this group instigated the situation and/or the rest of the Visitors I don't know, but they were the stand-outs as the loudest and the grandmother was the ring-leader! Ma Barker.

As the crowd got louder with laughter and snickers, Cobby (who was probably watching from the window) rushed out, picking up a book on his way. He was obviously agitated. Since I know his behavior (and that of the humans watching him) I knew exactly how this was going to play out. Cobby displayed his aggravation by rocking and throwing things out at the Visitors who were upsetting him. I video taped most of this, but am unable to upload it at this time.

As Cobby was in action, a larger crowd grew and most from what I could hear while taping, were excited by his behavior. Admittedly before I knew what his rocking meant, I too thought he was dancing, as that is what it looks like, BUT once an Animal throws something out towards the Visitors, regardless of your level of Animal Behavior knowledge, that isn't an action based on just for fun. Something is upsetting to the Animal, so its disturbing to me that Visitors would not only heckle him, but in fact erupt in cheer as a crowd when he threw things (three times).

That said, I again return to signage. At the Chimps there are two signs. One is a universal "shoosh" sign, with a finger up to lips, the other is the Zoo's Respect the Animals sign. One is posted to the far left and the other to the far right, nestled in close to the bushes. Visitors walking up and standing in the front to view, do not see these signs, and the ones who do mostly don't pay any attention. I have seen Visitors yell out to the Chimps while standing in front of the "shoosh" sign. Amazing.

So, we ask, will signs then work at all? I believe more will deter. Since the Zoo will not take other outside the box measures, such as a video on loop at entry village or in the Cafe, we have to go with what little they have already done and that's signs.

Side note on video. There is a new video playing at the Snow Leopard exhibit. The video is on Conservation and Education about the plight of the Snow Leopards. While a great thing, isn't it just as important to Educate and Conservate for the Animals who call your facility home? Again, I would think that should be primary.

I have long thought the necessity of more signage, Zoo-wide, but it is in dire need at the Chimps and Bears. I find that most of the misbehavior happens in these areas AND these Animals are wide-open. It has always been curious to me that there are signs at the Indian Rhino exhibit cautioning about crossing the barrier, but NONE, not one, at the Bears. I have never seen anyone misbehaving at the Indian Rhino, but its a regular occurrence at Bears. AND there is hardly ever Security at Bears. Why are these signs not posted all along the barrier at Bears? WHY??? ... As well these signs should be at all exhibits, along with ones that say not to yell. AND one every window at the Cats, not to rap, tap, slap on the glass.

As for the signage at Chimps, there are several things that need to be noted to alert. Several low placed signs in front of the exhibit would be ideal. Do not vocalize at the Animals (yell, imitate, ect). Do not gesture at the Animals (wave your arms, clap, ect). These Animals are sensitive. If you see them exhibiting motion that looks like dancing, waving Arms, motioning back and forth, that is a display of agitation. Do not encourage, heckle, applaud this behavior. These are Senior Animals and should be kept calm for their health and safety. ... THIS would help the situation tremendously.

I also find it curious, that with the Chimps being right next to the Cafe, that more Staff do not pay attention to what is goign on there. When I'm at Chimps, I see Staff from all levels, going in and out and just passing by. In fact yesterday I witnessed two things that were most disturbing.

Two Cafe Staffers came out and joined in the festivities, adding to the laughter and took photos of Cobby in action.

Five Staffers, including that of Membership and IT, stood about 20 yards from the Chimps, in front of the Cafe, over-seeing the moving of the outdoor seating, in preparation for an event that night. Note photo posted. The Chimps are right beyond these people. There is no way the cheering and laughter was not heard. YET not one Staffer went over to see what the commotion was. INCREDIBLE! I'm so glad that the Staff is alert and aware of their surroundings. Good grief, Cobby could have ran up and goosed one and they wouldn't have seen it coming.

Once again I plead to the San Francisco Zoo, get it together! Do more to protect these Animals! You may not like me, but this isn't about me, its about the Animals in your care who call the Zoo home.

Visitor Dangles Arms in Lion Enclosure! OMG!!!

Once again Visitors misbehave, I witness it and Security basically does nothing. This is one of the reasons I must blog. This is one of the reasons my brain hurts, regarding so much Zoo-wise. I wish it wasn't that way, but I care about the safety of the Animals who live there, in regards to Visitor actions, that I can't help but get upset.

So, here is what happened today. My friend Lee and I were sitting on Tatiana's (Tiger) bench. The bench that was donated by funds raised in her memory by those who loved her and were outraged at the circumstances surrounding her death. I was one of those people. This bench sits in front of the enclosure the Tatiana lived in with her companion Tony. I am sure anyone who is reading this, has knowledge of the events that happened Christmas Day 2007. If not google it.

After those events there were upgrades made to the barrier at the Visitor side, as the drama surrounding the circumstances made it seem as though it was a Zoo fail, that the event could even happen. In my opinion, this was not a Zoo fail. In short, Big Cats had lived there for close to 80 years, without escaping. The issue of wall height was not an issue, as the "recommended height" was NOT "required height". AND the obvious was documented three years later, that she had been taunted (more like tortured to a boiling point). She also did not leap out of the enclosure, she allegedly used some dangling legs as a ladder of flesh.

Knowing all that, why would anyone do the following, and why did I have to witness it? It really amazes me that Lee and I seem to be the only ones who think the behavior we see is bad. Maybe this is why we are witnesses. God knows that we will stand-up for what is right. If the lady who had seem the Dhaliwal's misbehaving at the Lions prior to getting to Tatiana's enclosure had reported it, maybe Tatiana would still be alive today. That is in part, why I get involved.

As we sat there enjoying watching Tunya and Sukari (Lions), a family strolls up. T he father immediately stands on the cement curb and then up on the ledge, body against the barrier glass, dangling his arms over the top, trying to get the Lions attention. OMG!!! I absolutely could not believe what I was seeing. I started taking photos to document it. I have seen alot of misbehavior, its a daily occurrence at the Zoo. I had vowed after the Bear Grotto incident (see blog http://sanfranciscozoocrime.blogspot.com/2011/03/welcomeif-you-are-reading-this-blog-you.html) not to get involved ever again, but when I see something so horrifying, I can't help myself. When a Visitor does something that can put an Animals life in danger, I can not just sit there and watch.

If you are asking how do these actions I write about put an Animal's life in danger, I'll note a couple past events as example. Tatiana, abused by Visitors to the point she got out, hunted them down and killed on of her attackers. She was shot in the head 14 times, because she defended herself, her companion and her home. Two years later a man voluntarily enters the Grizzly Bear enclosure. One of the Bears sniffed him and moved on. Had that not been the the way it played out and one of the Bears went after him, in anyway, even playful, they would have both taken a bullet. So, regardless of the scenario, the Animal will always lose its life.

In the case of today, sure there is a window barrier as such you can see in the photo (in case you have never been to the San Francisco Zoo), but what if there was a fluke and something happened that this guy fell in? One of those precious Lions might have lost their life. I am painting an extreme outcome that I do not believe could happen in this instance, but that is not the whole point. The point is, this behavior is unacceptable. Why do people come to the Zoo, pay to get in and then act the fool all over the place? I don't get it. Until I became hypersensitive to misbehavior, I thought people who visited the Zoo did so because they liked animals. Behavior I see continuously suggests something different.

Even further OMG, this is happening at the same enclosure as the Tatiana event!

Before I go any further with my commentary, I continue with the chain of events.

So, even though I do not want to get involved, I go to the Lion House to ask the Security guard there to call another guard to talk to these offenders. As I walk up, Security guard Gisella bikes in. She played a part in untruths in regard to the Bear Grotto incident, so I would have preferred to not be involved in something she was involved in again, but no choice. I told her what I saw, showed her the photo, she thanked me and off she went. I followed back to the scene to point out the offenders.

When she approached them, she said in a low pleasant voice, " ... for you safety,..." I could not believe it! AGAIN Security basically does nothing!!! Just like when a Visitor threw something at Cobby the Chimp! (see post on this blog, http://sanfranciscozoofails.blogspot.com/2011/05/zoo-management-lets-visitors-abuse.html) OUTRAGEOUS! What is going on? Why does Security make nice with people who are seriously misbehaving? They should be asked to leave, but at the very least be spoken to with a more stern voice and wording. No wonder people run wild in the place. They know they can.

I may be in the minority, but once a Visitor initiates misbehavior, that should void them as a Security priority. The Animals that live there never seem to be the priority concern Security-wise. Its disgusting.

If I was a Keeper and saw how disrespectful Security is in regards to reprimanding Visitors offending towards the Animals in my care, I would be pissed.

I digress. ... The wife of the offender, then says to me, "Are you happy now?" What is that even supposed to mean? Her husband acts the fool, engages in a serious Security action and she is turning my reporting it around? I had not planned to say anything to these people, but she opened a dialog with me first. I responded, "He should not be up there. There are barriers for a reason." Again she says, "Are you happy now." I said, "Don't you watch the News. You must know what happened the last time someone dangled over the barrier." Then I just stopped. To me asking, "If I was happy now", was the most ridiculous thing to say. NO, I'm not happy that your offensive husband is putting our precious Animals at risk with his bad behavior.

So, again proven offensive Visitors are smiled at and asked not to misbehave. Seriously? Man-up San Francisco Zoo, stop being cowards! Do something to deter this bad behavior. Start sending a message. Start educating people about respecting the Animals BEFORE they enter the Zoo. Don't hide behind the signs that are posted here and there, and think they are enough. They are not. Have a video at the entrance. Have a video in the Cafe. Tell people how they are expected to behave once they enter the Zoo. Have docents talk to groups before they enter. Do something, because misbehavior toward the Animals is epidemic.

Black Rhino so DRY Skin is Now Cracking!!!

^ 12.26.09 ^ How her skin is supposed to look.

^ 2.11.10 ^ Looking dry

^ 2.21.11 ^ After being Oiled! :)

^ 5.22.10 ^ Elly and Mishaki, both skin in good condition

^ 2.26.11 ^ Looking Dry

^ 4.14.11 ^ Dryer!

^ 5.28.11 ^ Even Dryer!

^ 7.3.11 ^ YIKES!

^ 7.10.11 ^ Comparison of Elly and Mishaki

^ 8.12.11 ^ The Sore! :(

^ the sore up close 8.12.11 ^

For months I have been wanting to do a post on the issue "Dry Elly" , but keep having other issues pop up. NOW from my perspective, the issue has literally come to a breaking point.

In the past 4-5 months, Elly, the female Black Rhino has seemed to have increasingly extreme skin dryness. I know that the Black Rhino's used to get oiled, but I haven't seen that in over a year. In fact the last photo's I have of Elly having been oiled are posted here, dated February 2010.

I have posted a time-line of photos to show the changes in her skin. I started noticing it as she was becoming more and more chalky looking, especially on her face and hind area. So much so, she started looking ghostly. I don't have many photos as I found it hard to see this happening to this precious Zoo friend.

Since I do not feel I'm in the position to inquire with her Keepers, there really isn't much I can do or say, other than shout it out here and hope the Zoo takes notice.

It might appear to some that all I want to do if find faults and post about them. That is not true. I do not like using time and energy in this way. But, when things are wrong, and this is very wrong, I can not keep quiet. As a frequent visitor and someone who watches (opposed to looking and moving on) the Animals, I notice things others may not. That said, what I notice is also from the perspective of the visitors eye.

Last Friday, August 12, 2011, I snapped the last photos posted here. I was horrified to see this huge sore on Elly's side! It appears that the dryness of her skin has caused it to crack, flake and bleed! This is horrible and when I think too hard about it, I become physically ill. ... I just want to rub Vaseline all over her!

How can the Zoo allow this to happen? Why hasn't this poor Animal, who turned 40! in January and has given birth to over a dozen Calfs, why hasn't her skin been taken care of? Why has she not been oiled in at least a year? Why has she been allowed to have her skin turn chalky? And NOW apparently, its just flaking off!

This is outrageous.

I tweeted the Zoo about it, and got no response. No surprise, as since the Zoo Director Tanya Peterson has stated outright lies about myself and a friend, most Staff outside Keeper level view us as public enemy number one, and disregard anything we say, including valid CONCERNS regarding Animal health and welfare.

Outrageous as well.

SO, What can and will be done to help Elly? I plan to post this and send it to the Zoo Vet Staff. Hopefully they are aware of this sore and its being treated. Hopefully the Hoofstock Staff gets it together and OILS poor Dry Elly, and Mishaki (the male) as well, on a regular basis.


Sunday August 27, 2011 UPDATE:

Tuesday August 16, 2011 - Emailed a letter that included this link to the San Francisco Zoo Vets, Dr Graham Crawford and Dr Adrian M. Received no reply.

Wednesday August 17, 2011 - Emailed a letter that included this link to the USDA department that handles Zoo animal welfare. Received no reply.

Sunday August 21, 2011- Emailed a letter that included this link to San Francisco Animal Welfare Chair, Sally Stephens. She replied and has been in contact with the Zoo regarding this.

At this point I relinquish control to Sally Stephens and the USDA if they make inquiries. I feel that I have done my part on Elly's behalf by alerting all the entities that I felt were necessary. I hope something is done to tend to Elly's sores and skin on a whole. As well Mishaki the male as I have seen one such sore on him too. ... I was at the Zoo today and neither appear moisturized in anyway, nor any medicinal treatment to the sores.

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.

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.