29 December 2008
Year of Expansion for Orana Wildlife Trust
2008 has been an eventful year for Orana Wildlife Trust. Highlights include taking over operation of Nelson's Natureland Zoo, opening a new retail store in Cathedral Square as well as numerous animal births and transfers.
Christchurch 's Orana Wildlife Trust, operators of Orana Wildlife Park , Southern Encounter Aquarium & Kiwi House and now Natureland Zoo in Nelson, has experienced a year of steady growth and expansion throughout 2008.
In June, the Trust took over the lease of a retail shop in Cathedral Square and converted the space into a wildlife themed gift shop as well as a dedicated entry (directly off Cathedral Square ) for Southern Encounter Aquarium & Kiwi House. Previously visitors either entered the attraction through the Visitor Centre or a retail shop in Cathedral Square meaning Southern Encounter had no external entrance and lacked signage.
Chief Executive, Lynn Anderson, says the new entrance and gift shop significantly lifts the profile of the attraction: “Southern Encounter lacked a presence in the Square as signage options were very limited meaning visitors used to walk around in circles as they could not locate the facility. Taking over the retail space, with a street frontage, was absolutely crucial to the ongoing development of this wonderful inner city facility.”
Whilst taking over the lease of the new retail store was a bold move, the Trust then grasped another fantastic opportunity by officially taking over the operation of Natureland Zoo in Nelson in October! Natureland was set to close earlier in the year until Orana Wildlife Trust entered negotiations with the Nelson City Council. Natureland's future is now secure and the Trust's team will ensure that the facility fulfils its potential, is an active member in endangered native species recovery programmes and remains a community asset for Nelson. Whilst the focus in Year One will be to carry out significant maintenance upgrades, a fantastic new Meerkat exhibit has been completed and will be open for Christmas !
“The Trust's attractions will operate separately, as they currently do, ensuring that no less focus is placed on any one facility. We are committed to making sure that each attraction continues to develop into the best possible facility it can be and look forward to seeing Natureland fulfill its potential” adds Lynn.
A range of exciting changes have occurred throughout 2008 with regards to the animal collection. Highlights include:
- Southern Encounter's Kiwi, named Chelsea and April, were released to the wild in April. The nine year old sisters lived at Orana Wildlife Park for two years and then spent six years at Southern Encounter before their release at Pukaha Mount Bruce.
- Four Kiwi (two males and two females) were transferred to Orana Wildlife Park , two of which moved to Southern Encounter Aquarium & Kiwi House.
- Eight Brown Teal (Pateke) ducklings were bred this season, including the 50 th Pateke duckling to be born at Orana since the Park joined the recovery programme for these “Nationally Endangered” waterfowl in 2004!
- One female Saddleback arrived at Orana to pair with Bob, a sixteen year old male, his first companion in eight years. Only three Saddleback live in captivity.
- Orana's fourteenth Giraffe calf was born and is now eight months old. Two young Giraffe were transferred from Orana Wildlife Park , one to Wellington Zoo, the other to Keystone Wildlife Reserve (on the Kaipara Harbour ).
- A baby Scimitar-horned Oryx calf arrived in February and was the first Oryx born at Orana in seven years. The Park has bred over 80 of these animals. Scimitar-horned Oryx were declared extinct in the wild in 1984 but captive management programmes have enabled them to be re-populated in some areas.
- Four Springbok, two Meerkats and four Waterbuck were also born during the year.
- Two male Cheetah were transferred to the Park from South Africa in November as part of the international captive breeding programme for the species.
- Two male Lions were transferred from Wellington Zoo on a one year breeding loan.
- A new Lion Den complex, costing $290,000, was opened during the year. The new facility includes a brand new night den building as well as a second large display reserve (1.5 acres in size). The new facilities provide a healthier living environment for the big cats whilst enabling keepers to more easily manage the animals.
Sadly, some animals also passed away during the year, including two Cheetah (Umbulla, 11 and Zilkaat, 10) as well as Judy, a 31 year old female Spider Monkey.
“Judy's passing marked the end of an era as she was one of five Monkeys transferred to Orana Wildlife Park from San Francisco in 1978 (Orana opened in 1976). Judy moved to Orana when she was just a one and produced eight monkeys in her time, six of which still live at Orana. Diablo, one of Judy's daughters, has recently been transferred to Wellington Zoo to form her own breeding group there. Staff will sorely miss Judy” says Animal Collection Manager, Ian Adams.
Orana Wildlife Trust is committed to developing its three attractions and some exciting new additions will occur in 2009. At Orana Wildlife Park a fantastic new walk-through Kea aviary is under development and due for completion in 2009. This wonderful exhibit will enable visitors to have a close encounter with one of New Zealand 's most charismatic native species. At Natureland, scheduled animal feeds will be introduced in the New Year to enhance the visitor experience. A range of upgrades and maintenance work have been carried out at Southern Encounter this year. Throughout 2009, staff will focus on further enhancing the aquatic displays.
Orana Wildlife Trust staff wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and happy New Year and thank the public for their support.
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23 December 2008
50 th Brown Teal Duckling Born at Orana!
Six fluffy Brown Teal (Pateke) ducklings are progressing nicely at Orana Wildlife Park and will be released to the wild next year.
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Orana Wildlife Park staff are proud to report that the 50 th “Nationally Endangered” Brown Teal (Pateke) duckling was born at the Park in November. The parent birds have produced two clutches of ducklings this season, the current group numbers six ducklings and all going well, they will all be released to the wild next year.
Tara Atkinson, Head of Native Fauna says staff are excited to have more ducklings to work with: “this latest clutch of six means that 50 ducklings have been bred at Orana – this gives the team immense satisfaction. Pateke are New Zealand 's rarest mainland waterfowl species and they number approximately 1,000 in the wild. |
The captive industry plays a critical role in the preservation of these endearing animals and all ducklings bred at Orana are released to the wild” says Native Fauna Head Keeper, Tara Atkinson.
Orana joined the Department of Conservation recovery programme for Pateke in 2004. The first pair of Brown Teal produced twelve ducklings prior to their separation and release. Due to the Park's early success in breeding the species, a more genetically significant, flock mated, pair (the current birds) was transferred to the Park in 2005. These amazing parents have now produced 38 ducklings and so far 32 of them have been released to the wild.
“The ducklings will be transferred to Peacock Springs (at Isaac Construction) once they are bigger to carryout their pre-release to the wild conditioning. All captive Brown Teal ducklings complete their final conditioning at Peacock Springs so we acknowledge the support of their staff. Conservation is a collaborative effort and our combined work results in healthy birds being released to the wild” adds Tara .
Whilst most of Orana's Brown Teal ducklings have been released in various reserves in the North Island , some were released in to Travis Wetland last season to test whether this is a suitable release site.
“Pateke are endangered due to predation by introduced mammalian predators as well as habitat destruction. But there are things that Christchurch people can do to assist Brown Teal especially if ducklings are to be released to areas like Travis Wetland again. People can neuter pets, keep cats inside at night and ensure dogs remain on a leash. Overall we want people to become interested in the preservation of the precious native birds – after all Pateke are only found in New Zealand !”
The Brown Teal ducklings reside in behind the scenes aviaries at the Park to increase their changes of survival.
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23 December 2008
Male Lions Roar in to Christchurch !
Two male lions will be transferred to Orana Wildlife Park from Wellington Zoo tomorrow on a one year breeding loan. At the same time, a female spider monkey has also been moved from Orana Wildlife Park to Wellington Zoo.
Orana Wildlife Park 's search for a breeding male lion is complete! Park staff are excited to report that two lions, aged four, will be transferred from Wellington Zoo tomorrow. The cats are named Malik and Zulu and will reside at Orana Wildlife Park for one year on a breeding loan.
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Two Orana animal keepers drove to Wellington yesterday to collect the lions and will return with them tomorrow morning (24 December)! A seven-year-old female spider monkey, named Diablo, accompanied the Park keepers as she was being transferred to Wellington Zoo as part of the regional breeding programme for the species. |
Orana's Animal Collection Manager, Ian Adams, says staff are looking forward to meeting the lions: “It will be great to have two male lions at the Park to re-start our breeding programme for these awesome big cats. Our last breeding male, Toby, died in 2006 and the last litter of cubs was born in 2003. Staff and volunteers have been eagerly awaiting the arrival of a new male lion so to be bringing two cats to the Park is fantastic.”
Toby the lion tragically passed away in 2006 and since then Park staff have been working with the Species Co-ordinator to locate a suitable new breeding lion, but several possible transfer options did not eventuate. Park staff then proposed a novel idea earlier this year; that Orana borrow the Wellington animals on a loan basis. Wellington's lions were confirmed (by the Species Co-ordinator) to be a suitable genetic match so the proposal was put to staff at Wellington Zoo who were examining options to temporarily re-locate Malik and Zulu whilst exhibit modifications occurred!
“The transfer and one year breeding loan is a unique way to manage the species and may pave the way for other animal transfers in the Australasian region. The movement of the lions and spider monkey between the two organisations is also a great example of how zoos work together for species preservation” adds Ian.
Malik and Zulu will move into Orana's new $290,000 lion den complex that was opened in July this year. The facility includes a new night den building plus a second display reserve (1.5 acres in size, the main display is a three acre habitat). Malik and Zulu will be located in the new den building and have access to the new display reserve until being introduced to the females.
“Our aim is to build up two good size lion prides so we hope that Malik and Zulu will breed with our females during their time at Orana. As they are only here for one year we will need to ensure we manage the cats appropriately to maximise breeding opportunities” says Ian.
Wellington Zoo's Lion Keeper, Linda Cook, says staff will miss the boys sorely whilst they are in Christchurch : “they are lovely big boys and such fun characters. They are my favourite animals at the zoo - I'm already looking forward to them returning in one year's time! We hope that Malik and Zulu can be introduced to our lionesses when they return as any cubs born will be of clean and new bloodlines.”
“The lions and lionesses at Wellington are forever roaring back and forth at each other so it seems the boys are ready for the next step (mating). Instinct will undoubtedly kick in when they are introduced to the females at Orana for the first time” adds Linda.
Park visitors will be able to meet the new boys over the summer holiday period.
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17 December 2008
Giraffe measure marks 20 years for Trust!
Life Education Trust has donated a 2.4 metre high giraffe themed height chart to Orana Wildlife Park for the giraffe exhibit, commemorating 20 years of operation.
Orana Wildlife Park 's 15 year old male giraffe, Harold (mascot of Life Education Trust) can check his son's (Azizi – eight months old) growth against a new height chart erected on the side of Orana's giraffe house. The chart was donated by Life Education Trust.
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Dianne Wilson, Trust Manager, says: “Life Education Trust has been operating in Christchurch now for twenty years, visiting primary schools with a health based educational programme delivered from mobile classrooms. During that time we have worked from time to time with Orana Wildlife Park through Harold the giraffe, our mascot. Orana Wildlife Park was an early supporter of the work that we do for children.” |
“Our Educator, Lisa, was the driver behind this project and thought it was timely to upgrade the board outside Orana Wildlife Park 's giraffe house this year as we celebrate our first twenty years. It is great to know that the association we have had with Orana Wildlife Park for so long is to continue” adds Dianne.
Park staff members are thrilled with the donation as it helps to brighten the exhibit. “Our daily giraffe encounter is one of the most popular Park experiences as visitors can hand feed these majestic creatures. The height chart is a nice addition to the area as it adds something extra for our visitors, particularly children, to interact with and it also shows the association between Orana and Life Education Trust” says Orana's Public Relations Manager, Nathan Hawke.
Harold the giraffe is an Orana Wildlife Park icon. He arrived at the Park 14 years ago, from Lincoln Park Zoological Gardens in Chicago , and has sired ten youngsters at Orana.
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12 December 2008
New male Cheetahs boost Orana's breeding group
Two male Cheetah arrived at Orana Wildlife Park in November taking the Park's Cheetah population to eleven animals.
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Blaine (seven) and Jonah (four), two stunning male Cheetah, were transferred from Cango Wildlife Ranch in South Africa , to Orana Wildlife Park in November. The cats have now completed their quarantine period and reside in off display exhibits. The move is part of the international captive breeding programme for these magnificent animals.
Orana's Animal Collection Manager, Ian Adams, says importing Blaine and Jonah increases the Park's chances of breeding more Cheetah: “The purpose of the transfer is to boost our Cheetah population, ensuring that the Park can make a long term contribution to the conservation of this threatened species. |
Importantly, Blaine and Jonah introduce new bloodlines to our group, provide a range in the age of our animals (which is important for a long term commitment to managing the species) and gives the Cheetah queens (which are very selective animals in a breeding sense) more options.”
Cheetah are a flagship conservation species for Orana Wildlife Park and to date eleven cats have been raised to adulthood. This is a significant achievement as only a small number of zoos worldwide have experienced repeated breeding success with Cheetah. The last cubs to be born at Orana arrived in 2004.
“Over the years, Orana has invested in significant resources to manage Cheetah. Eleven cats (including the new arrivals) now reside at the Park and Orana has fourteen Cheetah enclosures. Park staff are committed to making an ongoing contribution to the breeding programme, hence the transfer of Blaine and Jonah. The new cats have distinct personalities, both have loud purrs and Blaine in particular is a big animal” adds Ian.
The Cheetah breeding programme is scientifically managed to ensure genetic diversity is retained so that the animals are strong, fit and healthy. As Cheetah get pushed closer to extinction in the wild (due to habitat loss, hunting by humans and persecution by farmers) it is exceptionally important that the world's zoos manage this critical back-up population to the highest standards as re-introductions to the wild (in areas of protected habitat) are a real possibility for the future.
As a charitable trust, Orana separately fundraises for all animal transfers. The Trust sincerely thanks the Josef Langer Charitable Trust and the Eureka Trust for both granting $25,000 towards the importation as well as Park supporters for their generous donations.
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4 December 2008
Cute Baby Meerkat at Orana!
A gorgeous Meerkat was recently born at Orana Wildlife Park
and is now on display.
A tiny five week old baby Meerkat is a delightful addition to Orana Wildlife Park 's animal family. The baby is now regularly venturing outside and is a very healthy animal. The arrival of the youngster takes the Park's breeding display group to four animals.
| “We were thrilled to welcome the little Meerkat, the second to be born at Orana this year. The baby is pretty cute and is doing really well. At this point we are yet to determine its sex” says Animal Collection Manager, Ian Adams. |
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The baby's older brother, Marcel , was born in February this year. Prior to Marcel's arrival the last baby Meerkats were born in 2001. The Park's breeding pair was formed in 2004 when the father was transferred from Werribee Open Range Zoo ( Australia ) to Orana. The mother was herself one of the last babies born at the Park in 2001.
“We hope that the parents continue to regularly produce offspring as our aim is to hold a large display group of these fascinating animals, to replicate their living situation in the wild. Whilst Meerkats are not endangered, wildlife parks and zoos fulfil an important conservation advocacy role whilst maintaining a managed back up population to ensure the animals remain off the endangered species list” adds Adams .
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3 November 2008
Giraffe Goes North
Kijana, a two year old male giraffe, is being transferred from Orana Wildlife Park to a private wildlife reserve north of Auckland today.
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Orana Wildlife Park 's adolescent male giraffe, Kijana, depart ed his birth place t his evening , bound for a new home at Keystone Wildlife Reserve (about 65km north of Auckland ). Kijana will form a bachelor herd at the private wildlife park with his brother and half brother (all three animals were born at Orana Wildlife Park ). This transfer is part of the Australasian Species Management Programme (ASMP) for these magnificent animals. Kijana was supposed to be transferred last week but the move was postponed owing to rough sea conditions and associated animal welfare issues.
“Kijana is such a nice animal, he is an easy going giraffe and nothing seems to be a problem for him. Staff are sad to see him leave because we have watched him grow up but his transfer will enable us to more easily manage our giraffes and it boosts the holding group at Keystone” says Animal Collection Manager, Ian Adams.
Kijana wil l be driven to Lyttelton and then travel by sea to Onehunga, Auckland , (the sea voyage takes two and a half days) before having another road trip to his new home. Park staff have been conducting daily pre-transfer conditioning sessions with Kijana for the past few months to ensure that the shift goes smoothly. |
“Animal transfers are a stressful time but we are confident this will be a relatively straight forward process. This transfer is positive for the regional breeding programme - whilst he will be part of an all male group at Keystone, he is still very much part of the programme as he may be required elsewhere for breeding in the future” adds Ian.
This year has been an eventful one for the Park in terms of giraffe management. In April, Kijana's half brother Seun moved to Wellington Zoo and then two weeks later a beautiful male calf named Azizi was born – he is now six months old.
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30 September 2008
Enrich Them All – Big or Small!
Internationally respected animal conditioning expert, Kerrie Haynes-Lovell, visited Orana Wildlife Park this past weekend to review the Park's enrichment programmes.
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“Positive Reinforcement Training” or “ Operant Conditioning” was the focus of a two day visit to Orana Wildlife Park last weekend by conditioning expert, Kerrie Haynes-Lovell . Kerrie has trained animals of all shapes and sizes and everything from Dogs to Polar Bears. Kerrie spent time with keepers on all sections at Orana and ran an intensive workshop yesterday. |
Orana Animal Keeper, Grant Amer, who organised the event, says Kerrie's knowledge will continue to be invaluable to the Park: “I worked with Kerrie for over six years at Sea World and experienced first hand her expertise in the area of animal conditioning. I wanted to bring Kerrie to Orana to expand keeper knowledge, provide more ideas for our team and to inspire our staff to do even more for our fantastic animals. ”
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Conditioning and enrichment programmes are a critical part of animal management as they result in a stimulating environment and help reduce stress. Orana's animal keepers already work hard to encourage natural behaviour and to provide a stimulating habitat for the animals. However, Park staff are committed to providing the highest standards of animal care, hence the reason staff have embraced the opportunity to host Kerrie, an expert in her field. |
Animal Collection Manager, Ian Adams, adds: “Zoo keeping has changed so much over the years. Our animals are part of managed captive breeding programmes and it is our responsibility to provide a stimulating, stress free environment for them. Conditioning and enrichment is such an important part of our job in the daily management of these animals. Hosting an expert such as Kerrie was a fantastic way to review our programmes and examine opportunities for improvement.”
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30 September 2008
Orana Wildlife Trust proud new operators of Natureland Zoo
Christchurch’s Orana Wildlife Trust has confirmed it will take over operation of Natureland Zoo in Nelson from 2 October 2008.
Natureland Zoo now has a very bright future! The Nelson attraction was originally scheduled to close in March but it will now be operated by Orana Wildlife Trust.
Orana’s Chief Executive, Lynn Anderson, says her team are excited by this opportunity: “We are thrilled to announce that we will operate Natureland. The facility is a much loved community asset with huge potential. We have spent a significant amount of time reviewing this opportunity and negotiating with the Nelson City Council and now look forward to running the attraction. We would like to thank the Nelson and Christchurch public for their support to date.”
In April, the Nelson City Council called for proposals to operate Natureland. Orana’s business plan was the only one to be considered. The Trust and Council entered negotiations in July.
Natureland’s curator, Gail Sutton, is thrilled with the decision: “We extend sincere thanks to our local community who came out in force to show their support for Natureland. Our staff are really excited that the future of the zoo has been secured. Natureland will continue to be a family friendly, fun place to visit, but there will be new experiences added over time. With the support of the experienced team at Orana, we will be able to move forward toward our vision of conservation education and play a greater role in endangered species management.”
Throughout Year One of operation, the Trust will focus on completing necessary maintenance work at Natureland. However, during that time, the Trust will seek local input to formulate a development plan for the future.
“Whilst our focus in Year One will be to carry out significant maintenance upgrades, planning is well underway for an exciting new animal addition for the Christmas holidays. We cannot elaborate more at this point but this addition will clearly demonstrate how we mean to continue, so watch this space!” adds Ms Anderson.
Orana Wildlife Trust, a registered charitable trust, owns Orana Wildlife Park and Southern Encounter Aquarium & Kiwi House in Christchurch. Whilst management of the Nelson attraction will occur from the Trust’s office in Christchurch, Ms Anderson stresses that Natureland will continue to be a locally focused facility.
“We want to reassure people that Natureland will be a genuine community asset for the Nelson region. All of the Trust’s attractions will operate separately, as they currently do, ensuring that no less focus is placed on any one facility. We are committed to making sure that each attraction continues to develop into the best possible facility it can be”.
"On behalf of Orana Wildlife Trust I also sincerely thank the Nelson City Council for the funding commitment to Natureland which will be vital to the successful operation of the attraction. We appreciate the positive relationship going forward" says Ms Anderson.
Councillor Ali Boswijk is delighted to pass operation of Natureland to Orana Wildlife Trust: “They will rejuvenate the facility and provide a quality experience for Nelson families. Under the guidance of the Trust, Natureland’s potential can be realised so that it can add to the diverse range of activities on offer in this spectacular part of New Zealand. I urge local people to support this exciting change by regularly visiting the facility they value so much.”
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9 September
Loads of Lovely Locals at Orana
Conservation Week 2008 runs from 7-14 September with a focus on meeting the locals.
Orana Wildlife Park has a range of unique locals and Conservation Week is the perfect opportunity to highlight the diversity of species that help make New Zealand special. Conservation Week also coincides with a busy time of year for Orana's Native Fauna Team owing to recent animal arrivals and the fact that the breeding season is underway!
“Conservation is at the heart of our operation and we believe conservation is everyone's responsibility. Conservation Week is therefore an important opportunity to showcase the splendour of native fauna. Places like Orana and our sister facility Southern Encounter Aquarium & Kiwi House, give local people the chance to view some of New Zealand 's seldom seen wildlife. We are extremely proud to have an opportunity to work with these delightful locals” says Head Keeper of Native Fauna, Tara Atkinson.
Some recent local arrivals include new Kiwi and a female Saddleback. The two young Kiwi were transferred from Kiwi Encounter at Rainbow Springs (Rotorua) last week, boosting the Park's population of these iconic locals and giving more long term breeding options for the Park. Koru, a juvenile Saddleback (Tieke) , was recently transferred from Mokoia Island , Rotorua to pair with Bob - one of only two Saddleback in captivity. Orana fulfils a conservation advocacy role with Saddleback and visitors can meet these special locals in the walk-through aviary.
Orana has a successful breeding programme for two species of nationally endangered waterfowl: Brown Teal (Pateke) and Blue Duck (Whio) . To date, 65 Orana-bred waterfowl have been released to the wild. “The Brown Teal pair is currently nesting and we hope they produce lots of ducklings this year as all offspring are released to the wild. Pateke number less than 1,000 in the wild. We recently shifted the Blue Duck to a different aviary in an attempt to stimulate breeding in what may be their last breeding season owing to age” adds Tara . |
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New Zealand has a stunning range of lizards and the Park has one of the most comprehensive public collections of native geckos. A daily presentation highlights the unique features of these interesting locals. “ New Zealand 's geckos are unique as they give birth to live young. Most geckos elsewhere lay eggs. We currently have one baby Wellington Green Gecko and are expecting more youngsters as the weather gets warmer” says Tara . |
Orana's natural setting and artesian waterways provide a home for more than 20 species of native animals that choose to live and breed on the grounds. “Birds are currently nesting all through the grounds which is fantastic. The proliferation in the number of species and specimens at the Park over the past ten years, through enhancing our habitat by planting native flora and eradicating pests, shows that conservation starts on your doorstep” adds Tara.
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5 September
Wild and Dangerous Dads
Orana Wildlife Park staff members salute wild dads this Fathers' Day.
Fathers' Day is this Sunday and some very unique fathers live at Orana Wildlife Park . “We have a variety of animal dads and they are each part of managed captive breeding programmes to help preserve their species” says Animal Collection Manager, Ian Adams.
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A small feathery native dad is a Brown Teal (pateke) affectionately known as Mr Teal or Count Duckula. This little bird is four years old and is father to 30 ducklings that have all been released to the wild! Pateke are classified as nationally endangered, being New Zealand 's rarest mainland waterfowl species. |
“Male teal are excellent fathers and play a vital role in teaching and rearing ducklings, spending more time educating their young than many other duck species! In fact, Mr Teal is so protective of his young that we had to close an aviary a few years ago because of his aggression towards visitors. Mr Teal is likely to sire more offspring this season and as pateke number less than 1,000 in the wild, he is genuinely contributing to the survival of his species” says Native Fauna Head Keeper, Tara Atkinson.
Harold, a tall graceful father, is a seventeen year old Giraffe who has sired ten youngsters. Three of Harold's offspring live at the Park including four-month-old Azizi. “Harold is a gentle giant, a great father to his youngsters and a fabulous animal to work with. He is one of the Park's iconic animals and many visitors have had the chance to hand feed him” adds Ian. |
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Sprint champion, Cheetah Mwandi , is father to three boys and one girl. Each day, Park visitors can watch Mwandi's sons follow in their father's footsteps as they race along a 180 metre habitat in under 13 seconds! Cheetah are the fastest land mammal in the world. “Orana is one of a small number of zoos worldwide to have experienced repeated breeding success with Cheetah. |
Mwandi has made a significant contribution to the captive breeding programme having sired one third of all Cheetah born at Orana” says Ian.
Heavyweight dad, Cyrano , is a 21-year-old White Rhino. In 1999, Cyrano became a father to Ibutho - the first Rhino born in New Zealand ! Ibutho now lives in Australia but the Park transferred two more female Rhino from Perth Zoo last year in the hope that more babies may be born at the Park. “Cyrano is a special animal. He was bred in captivity and only eight percent of captive born Rhinos are reproducing in a captive setting meaning Ibutho's birth was a significant achievement for Cyrano” adds Ian. |
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Hooer, the Waterbuck, is a dad with big rippling horns! He has produced five babies in the last four years, three of which will move to Hamilton Zoo. Orana is one of the few institutions holding Waterbuck in Australasia so the Park's male Waterbuck is boosting the population of his species in this region.
We wish all fathers a great day for Sunday ! |
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3 September 2008
Orana celebrates the arrival of Spring with New Kiwi
Two new kiwi arrived at Orana Wildlife Park yesterday afternoon.
Tawahi and Geyser, two young North Island Brown kiwi, were transferred to Orana Wildlife Park from Kiwi Encounter at Rainbow Springs (Rotorua) yesterday. The transfer w as part of the captive recovery programme for New Zealand 's national icon and takes Orana's kiwi population to six birds.
“We are really excited to have two young birds. They will eventually move into our nocturnal display creating more space for breeding pairs at the Park. Our team is extremely proud to be part of the captive breeding programme and these new kiwi ensure that Orana makes an ongoing contribution to the programme” says Nat ive Fauna Head, Tara Atkinson.
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“The new arrivals are young, small kiwi and have beautiful features. Tawahi, meaning overseas, is a 10 month old female and weighs 1500 grams. She was bred at Kiwi Encounter. Geyser, a male, is only is nine months old and tips the scales at 1200 grams. As an egg he was moved from Te Puia where Rotorua's main geyser is located (hence his name) to Kiwi Encounter where he hatched” adds Tara . |
Over the next month Orana will play musical chairs with kiwi. The Park also operates Southern Encounter Aquarium & Kiwi House ( Cathedral Square ) where an additional kiwi pair resides. Following a breeding recommendation, the inner city kiwi will move back to the Park and Orana's current display birds will move into town. Tawahi and Geyser will then move on display.
“The ongoing movements and transfers are disruptive for the kiwi but it is very important for the captive recovery programme that we maximise breeding potential. We are just thrilled that our two attractions will continue to play an important role in the conservation of these precious animals” comments Tara .
Visitors will have the opportunity to meet Tawahi and Geyser in the coming months at the 1.30pm daily kiwi feed.
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14 July 2008
New Pad for Park’s Pride
Orana Wildlife Park’s Lions have a brand new home and hosted a ‘house warming’ party over the weekend to celebrate!
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Canterbury’s only Lions have a new $290,000 home that includes a new night den complex plus a second display reserve at Orana Wildlife Park. The Park’s carnivore keepers are delighted at the ease of operating the new facilities, which have been under construction since 2004. |
Orana’s Head Keeper of Exotic Mammals, Graeme Petrie, says the facilities are fantastic: “We currently hold eight Lions in two prides and the new facilities enable us to more easily manage multiple prides. Both prides now have access to large reserves and the night dens provide a healthier, dryer and warmer living environment for the animals.”
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The upgrade involved building a second reserve (1.5 acres) to complement the existing three acre display, providing more space for the Lions. The new den building was erected between the reserves and contains a full service area and eight dens with connecting chutes. Outside, four ‘tents’ link the dens to the reserves meaning Lions can be easily moved to different areas. |
“The dens are constructed of tilt slab concrete giving good insulation and increased thermal properties. They were designed by our team meaning they are much more efficient to work and provide more management options, particularly for breeding, under one roof” adds Petrie.
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A range of features enhance the visitor experience. Behind the scenes tours can be conducted through the dens and new pathways give visitors more views of the Lions. Additionally, twelve interpretative panels, printed by sponsor Adgraphix, were added. The interpretation informs visitors on the plight of Lions and helps to lead people around the pathways. |
Chief Executive, Lynn Anderson, says as a charitable trust the Park must separately fundraise for all capital developments. “We sincerely thank Josef Langer Charitable Trust, Eureka Trust, Canterbury Community Trust, Dr L Story and R & S Baldwin for their generous grants as well as the many organisations and donors within our community who collectively donated more than $40,000 towards the project.”
“New developments are important to the Park as they help us make genuine contributions to conservation and provide exciting new visitor experiences. Our next project is a walk-through Kea aviary, which is well underway and may be complete this year” says Anderson.
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10 July 2008
Orana Wildlife Trust to Negotiate Natureland Zoo Operation
Christchurch’s Orana Wildlife Trust will enter negotiations with the Nelson City Council to operate Natureland Zoo.
The future of Natureland Zoo in Nelson, originally scheduled to close in March, has most likely been assured with confirmation today that the Nelson City Council will negotiate further with a view to Orana Wildlife Trust taking over operation of the attraction from October. In the meantime, the Council will continue to operate the zoo.
Orana’s Chief Executive, Lynn Anderson, is delighted with the decision: “We are absolutely thrilled to have the opportunity to negotiate further with the Council. Natureland is a much loved community asset and it has huge potential.”
The Trust has a proven track record of running not-for-profit wildlife attractions. It owns and operates both Orana Wildlife Park (New Zealand’s only open range zoo) and Southern Encounter Aquarium & Kiwi House (an inner city attraction showcasing the South Island’s unique aquatic wildlife as well as iconic native fauna such as Kiwi and Tuatara).
“Our team has the necessary skills to operate Natureland Zoo as we successfully run two high quality wildlife attractions in Christchurch. Significant redevelopment work would be undertaken and Natureland will make a significant contribution to programmes for endangered native and exotic species. A full redevelopment plan would be finalised during the first year of operation and local input will be sought” adds Ms Anderson.
Natureland Zoo would adopt the Trust’s mission currently applied to its Christchurch attractions. As a registered charitable trust and community focussed organisation, the Trust operates in a commercially astute manner to achieve its aims, which include:
Provision of quality facilities for recreation to be enjoyed by the people of the community as well as visitors to the region.
Conservation work in support of endangered species from New Zealand and overseas.
Education and inspiration of visitors to care about the environment and conservation issues (particularly school children, who will be the caretakers of our precious biodiversity tomorrow).
Captive fauna research in direct support of in-situ (field) conservation programmes.
Nelson’s Mayor, Kerry Marshall, says "We are impressed with the calibre of the proposal from the Trust. With their expertise they will rejuvenate the facility and provide an educational, entertaining experience for Nelson families. I can only urge all ardent Natureland supporters visit it as often as they can to ensure success for the facility they value so much.
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1 July 2008
Park Cheetah Passes On
Orana Wildlife Park staff are saddened by the loss of a 12 year old male Cheetah.
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Umbulla the Cheetah, affectionately known as Horse, died at Orana Wildlife Park last week as a result of age related illness. He was transferred to the Park from South Australia in 2001 as part of the international captive breeding programme.
Head Keeper of Exotic Animals, Graeme Petrie, said staff will miss Umbulla: “He was a very assertive animal, great to work with and we are sad he has gone. When he first arrived at Orana I we thought they’d given us a horse because he was such a big strong looking cat! Unfortunately, Umbulla did not sire any offspring but he was a valuable animal for the captive programme because Cheetah breeding is about mate selection and providing the Queens with options so Umbulla was a critical motivational animal.” |
Whilst Umbulla was housed in an off display habitat, he often appeared as the face of the Park through advertising, notably on the rear of the Orana Wildlife Park shuttle, that operates daily from Cathedral Square to the Park.
“He was a fantastic ambassador for his species and directly helped to draw visitors to the Park” added Petrie.
Park staff are awaiting final results of the post mortem. Umbulla has been laid to rest behind the scenes.
Orana is one of only a small number of institutions worldwide that have experienced repeated breeding success with Cheetah - a species that is notoriously difficult to breed in a captive setting. To date, eleven Cheetah have been raised to adulthood at the Park. Later this year, another two males will be imported from South Africa to boost the Park’s breeding options.
“The Park plays an active role in the captive breeding programme for Cheetah, classified as vulnerable by the World Conservation Union due to habitat loss, hunting by humans for their pelt and persecution by farmers as a result of stock losses. As Cheetah get pushed closer to extinction in the wild it is exceptionally important that the world’s zoos manage this critical back-up population to the highest standards as re-introductions to the wild (in areas of protected habitat) are a real possibility for the future” adds Petrie.
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16 June 2008
ZOOS & AQUARIUMS ANNOUNCE PROGRAMME TO SAVE FROGS
During 2008, the world zoo and aquarium community is driving a public awareness and fundraising campaign to help address amphibian extinctions. The NZ programme will be launched at the annual CMaG: ARAZPA NZ Conference this week.
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Worldwide, almost half of all amphibian species are threatened with extinction! This global amphibian crisis is the single largest mass extinction since the disappearance of the dinosaurs. The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the World Conservation Union have declared 2008 Year of the Frog.
A critical part of their response is Amphibian Ark, |
which is helping to ensure that selected species that would otherwise go extinct will be maintained in captivity until they can be secured in the wild. Sir David Attenborough and Jean-Michel Cousteau are the patrons of Amphibian Ark.
The Year of the Frog campaign has two main objectives: raise awareness by highlighting ways people can become involved and raise funds for frog conservation. Collectively, members of the Australasian Regional Association of Zoological Parks and Aquaria (ARAZPA) seek to raise A$400,000, representing $0.03 per paying visitor. The New Zealand campaign will run until June 09 and our official ambassadors are Ruud Kleinpaste (Buggin’ with Ruud) and Dr Phil Bishop (leader New Zealand Frog Research Group, University of Otago).
Ruud is delighted to be involved in this collaborative conservation campaign. He says “the amphibian crisis is particularly relevant in New Zealand as all four of our native species are listed in the top 100 most threatened amphibians in the world!”
“Frogs are important animals in our ecosystem. Their porous skin allows both air and water directly through it so they are susceptible to any and all pollutants in the environment. Frogs are often referred to as environmental indicators - our modern day 'canaries in the coal mine'. Importantly, amphibians also keep insect populations in check.”
NZ zoos and aquariums will implement a range of initiatives to meet the objectives of the campaign. New Zealanders can directly assist by visiting their local zoo and/or aquarium.
Dr Phil Bishop adds: “Amphibians are severely affected by habitat loss, climate change, pollution and pesticides, introduced species and over collection for food and pets. While habitat destruction is the major threat, one immediate cause is a parasitic fungus called amphibian chytrid, a disease that is deadly to hundreds of amphibian species. Amphibian chytrid is currently unstoppable and untreatable in the wild. It can kill 80% of native amphibians within months, causing widespread amphibian species extinctions.”
Martin Phillips, Executive Director of ARAZPA, adds: “This global effort is an unprecedented level of collaboration for a conservation programme. With over 600 million visitors to the world’s 1200 zoos and aquariums, this project has the potential to take conservation programmes to a new level.”
Native frog conservation in New Zealand
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DOC has a Native Frog Recovery Group that advises DoC managers on management and research priorities for native frogs. The group is presently preparing a new recovery plan due for launching in early 2009. Back up populations have been created on separate off shore islands for Maud Island and Hamilton’s frogs (originally each species was only found on one island each) |
and captive populations established for Archey’s and Hochstetter’s frog. Predator control programmes, population monitoring and disease surveillance are also undertaken in priority frog populations where resources allow.
The captive industry plays an important advocacy role, some centres (Auckland Zoo, Hamilton Zoo and Karori Wildlife Sanctuary) are undertaking native frog conservation projects on-site whilst others (Orana Wildlife Park, Wellington Zoo) are reviewing holding a backup population.
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8 May 2008
Weird and wonderful mothers at Orana
A range of interesting animal babies are currently on display at Orana Wildlife Park .
Mother's Day is looming so Orana Wildlife Park staff thought it timely to draw attention to the range of weird and wonderful mothers (and their youngsters) currently at the Park. “We have a variety of babies at the moment including porcupines, scimitar-horned oryx, springboks, meerkat, giraffe and native geckos. The mothers of the babies are all part of managed captive breeding programmes to help preserve their species and they are all remarkable in their own way” says Animal Collection Manager, Ian Adams.
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Six months ago Sage, a two year old female crested porcupine, produced the first porcupines (two) to be born in New Zealand ! Whilst porcupines are nocturnal, the babies are frequently spotted by visitors. “We have held porcupines for over 10 years but the transfer of Sage last year resulted in the arrival of the prickly babies” explains Adams . |
Behind the scenes, scimitar-horned oryx mother, Bon (aged 11), has a healthy three month old male calf called Magnum.
The baby is the first oryx born at Orana in seven years. Scimitar-horned oryx were declared extinct in the wild in 1984 but captive management programmes have enabled them to be re-populated in some areas, so Magnum is an important arrival. |
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“ Orana is the only holder of oryx in New Zealand . The Park has bred more than 80 of these animals and was believed to be the first institution in the world to breed oryx by artificial insemination! Magnum is an important addition for the regional breeding programme” adds Adams .
Park visitors have the opportunity to view a range of other mothers interacting with their youngsters. Four springboks have each produced a male calf over summer and autumn – all to the same bull. Our display herd numbers 16 of these dainty animals.
Two weeks ago, Nathalie the Giraffe gave birth to Azizi her sixth, six foot baby! Aged 20, Nathalie has spent almost 40% of her life pregnant! A two month old Meerkat named Marcel is the first Meerkat baby born at Orana in seven years. Marcel's mother, Avanna, was herself one of the last babies born at the Park. |
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In the native section, three Northland green geckos and two goldstripe geckos are quickly learning to climb trees and hunt bugs. Their mothers are very unique creatures. “ New Zealand 's female geckos give birth to live young whereas most gecko species elsewhere in the world lay eggs making these native mums very special” says Head Keeper of NZ Fauna, Tara Atkinson.
At Southern Encounter Aquarium & Kiwi House, Orana's sister attraction, six carpet shark embryos are separated from their mother in a separate tank to enhance their chances of survival and provide viewing opportunities for visitors.
We wish all mothers a great day for Sunday.
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24 April 2008
Six Foot Baby!
A beautiful baby Giraffe was born yesterday at Orana Wildlife Park .
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Two weeks after sending one male Giraffe to Wellington Zoo, Orana Wildlife Park animal keepers were delighted to discover that a new baby had been born yesterday morning. Staff members were expecting the birth but were uncertain of the due date. |
Animal Collection Manager, Ian Adams, says staff were surprised by the arrival: “it was a nice surprise for staff yesterday morning to see a healthy baby Giraffe. Nathalie, the mother, didn't show any signs the previous night that she was about to give birth. The youngster was dry when keepers found him, meaning he was born during the night. He is quite big and very strong and we're very happy with his progress.”
| The birth of the yet to be named baby is Nathalie's sixth calf and father Harold's tenth youngster. Nathalie is about to turn twenty and, since each pregnancy lasts 15 months, has spent seven and a half years pregnant! |
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“Good old Nat, she is such a reliable mother. She just gets on with it and looks after the calf. The bonus of the birth yesterday is that Park visitors have had the chance to view the youngster enjoying the autumn sun” adds Adams .
Giraffes at Orana Wildlife Park
Orana Wildlife Park has been involved in the international captive breeding programme for Rothschild's giraffe for over twenty years and fourteen babies have been born at Orana in that time (including the youngster). Giraffes are one of the Park's most popular animals owing to a special experience offered twice each day where visitors have the opportunity to hand feed these majestic creatures.
10 April 2008
A Tall Order
Orana Wildlife Park's young male giraffe, Seun, departs for Wellington Zoo this evening.
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A strapping Cantabrian named Seun, aged one and a half years, weighing 300kg and standing 2.8 metres tall, has left his birthplace (Orana) this afternoon to live with two girls in Wellington . This important transfer of the young giraffe is part of the Australasian Species Management Programme (ASMP) for these magnificent animals.
“Seun is a lovely animal and has been fantastic to work with. He is very gentle, bright, trusting of his keepers and has an exceptionally sweet nature. I am sure the Wellington Zoo team will thoroughly enjoy working with him” comments Kirsten Ferlazzo, Orana's Animal Keeper who will accompany the giraffe to Wellington . |
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Seun will travel by sea from Lyttelton to Wellington overnight along with Kirsten and Wellington Zoo's veterinarian. Park staff have been conducting daily pre-transfer conditioning sessions with Seun for the past few months to ensure that the shift goes smoothly.
“Although we are sad to see him go, this transfer is positive for the regional breeding programme and demonstrates how zoos work collaboratively together. Animal transfers are always a stressful time but we are confident this will be a relatively straightforward process. Hopefully, Seun will breed and produce youngsters at his new home” adds Orana's Animal Collection Manager, Ian Adams. |
Upon arrival in Wellington , Seun will move into a new African Savannah habitat that opened in December. “ We are very excited about getting a new giraffe and hope that Seun will form a breeding pair with Zahara, our young female. We are lucky that there was a young male in New Zealand that was suitable to come to Wellington Zoo and it is fantastic to be working in partnership with Orana Wildlife Park ” says Suzette Nicholson, Wellington Zoo's Husbandry Manager.
Giraffes at Orana Wildlife Park
Orana Wildlife Park has been involved in the international captive breeding programme for Rothschild's giraffe for over twenty years and thirteen babies have been born at Orana in that time. Giraffes are one of the Park's most popular animals owing to a special experience offered twice each day where visitors have the opportunity to hand feed these majestic creatures.
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1 April 2008
Baby Meerkat at Orana!
A gorgeous Meerkat was born at Orana Wildlife Park just over one month ago!
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A fluffy baby Meerkat is a welcome addition to Orana Wildlife Park 's animal family. The youngster is becoming increasingly confident and is already feeding on solids. In total, five Meerkats now reside at Orana and are housed in two separate habitats.
“The baby is very cute although we are yet to determine its sex. Visitors have enjoyed watching the little one because it is very active and quite noisy. The birth is positive for the Park because we want to develop a large display group of these endearing animals, to replicate their living situation in the wild. We have found that once Meerkats start breeding they generally produce babies regularly” says Animal Collection Manager, Ian Adams. |
| The last baby Meerkats at Orana Wildlife Park were born in 2001 and since that time staff have been eagerly awaiting the presence of more youngsters. The mother of the latest youngster was herself one of the last babies born at the Park. In 2004 an unrelated male (now aged four years) was transferred to Orana from Werribee Open Range Zoo ( Australia ) to pair with the female. Staff are delighted that the pair has produced a youngster. |
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“Whilst Meerkats are not endangered it is important that we do all we can to ensure that they remain off that list. Wildlife parks and zoos therefore fulfil an important conservation advocacy role whilst maintaining a managed back up population” adds Adams .
About Meerkats:
• Meerkats are highly social members of the mongoose family.
They live in large family groups of up to thirty animals and do most things communally, including hunting, raising the young and taking turns at guard duty. While hunting, they post a lookout for predators.
• Meerkats are very robust creatures, capable of withstanding some snake and scorpion venoms that are strong enough to kill humans!
• They are expert and energetic diggers – their burrows may go nearly 3.5 metres deep.
• They communicate with one another using a series of peeps. They have acute eyesight and a highly developed sense of smell.
• Meerkats will eat any small live prey they can catch including snakes, lizards, insects and centipedes.
• Although they are fiercely territorial, they often live harmoniously with ground squirrels in the same burrows.
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1 April 2008
Phone call for Mr G Raff
It's April Fools Day meaning Orana Wildlife Park fields many light hearted prank calls.
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“Is Sue Keeper there please?” “How about Mr G Raff?” Orana Wildlife Park staff members receive only a limited number of serious calls before midday on April Fool's Day!
“We actually get a number of these type of calls each week, people asking to speak to Mr Lions and so on, but on April Fool's Day we are particularly inundated with calls where people have been set up. Some of the names they ask for are very creative such as Paul Cupine and we get a laugh out of that” says Park Receptionist, Annette Bensberg. |
Park staff are pleased that the pranksters at least think of Orana Wildlife Park when setting people up. Many of the callers ask questions about Orana once getting over their initial embarrassment.
“ Sometimes we still need to explain to people that they have phoned the zoo and asked to speak to A Lion - and they still don't get it” adds Ms Bensberg.
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4 January 2008
