1July – August 2009

Volume XXVIII, Number 4Riverbanks is published six times a year for

members of Riverbanks Society by Riverbanks Zoological Park and Botanical Garden,

Columbia, South Carolina.

Riverbanks Park CommissionLloyd S. Liles, ChairmanEarl F. Brown. Jr.Mary HowardJames E. SmithJan StampsBud TibshranyTracey Waring

Riverbanks Society Board of DirectorsRobert G. Davidson, PresidentBarbara K. Ryan, Vice-PresidentJonathan H. Nason, TreasurerJudy M. Battiste, SecretaryJeremy G. Wilson, Immediate Past PresidentElla BouknightLent BridgesWilliam H. Davidson IISteve GravesJack S. GraybillGreg A. LapointeRichard LuberDr. Louis LynnRichard N. McIntyreNicholas K. MooreC.C. Rone, Jr.John J. Singerling IIIKaymani D. WestDr. Anny ZalesneDon F. Barton, Director Emeritus

Riverbanks Senior StaffSatch Krantz Executive DirectorKim M. Benson Director of Human ResourcesAndy Cabe Director of Botanical GardenGeorge R. Davis Director of FinanceEd Diebold Director of Animal Collections & ConservationHeather A. Doggett Director of Conservation EducationKevin Eubanks Director of Guest ServicesEric Helms Director of Risk Management & FacilitiesMelodie Scott-Leach Director of Habitat HorticultureTommy Stringfellow Director of MarketingKeith Benson, DVM Senior VeterinarianJohn Davis Curator of MammalsScott Pfaff Curator of HerpetologyMartin Vince Curator of Birds

Riverbanks Hours of OperationOpen daily except Thanksgiving day &Christmas day9am – 5pm Daily9am – 6pm Weekends during Daylight Savings

Subscriptions to Riverbanks are $24 per year.Members of Riverbanks Society are entitled toone free subscription along with free admissionand guest passes, discounts at Zoo & Garden gift shops, invitations to special events and much more. To subscribe to Riverbanks or to join the Society, visit www.riverbanks.org orcall 803.779.8717 x1111.

Riverbanks MagazineArt Direction & Design – Dixie Kaye AllanEditor – Monique JacobsContributors – Lindsay Burke, Andy Cabe,Matt Croxton, John Davis, Ed Diebold,Heather Doggett, Andrea Mueller,Katie Mixon, Scott Pfaff, Jennifer Rawlings,Melodie Scott-Leach, Amanda Segura,Martin Vince, Jenny YeagerPhotographers – Ron Brasington, Lindsay Burke, Andy Cabe, Larry Cameron, Robb Helfrick,Katie Mixon, Sue Pfaff, Richard Rokes,Melodie Scott-Leach, Jenny YeagerFront cover: Reticulated giraffe calf Lewis with father CharliePhotograph by Richard Rokes

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and a member of the American PublicGardens Association.

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The Observation Deck 3 A Note from the Director

Fins, Feathers and Fur 16Keeper faves, facts and figures

In The Know 24Insider “tails,” tidbits and tips

Conservation Corner 30Projects funded by Riverbanks Conservation Support Fund

Plan Your Visit 10Mark your calendars and other fun things to Zoo

Shoots and Blooms 12Gardening tips and how-tos, plus plants and people in the spotlight

Riverbanks Adventures 14Upcoming classes and educational programs

Junior Zookeeper 15Cool conservation projects for kids

Raising a Gentle Giant 4Meet Lewis the baby giraffe

Growing the Next Koala Café 18Find out what it takes to feed these much-loved marsupials

Riverbanks Bulb Sale 20Order early for premium picks

Thank You for Making a Difference 26A special thanks to Riverbanks’ donors and Gold-level members

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You’ve no doubt heard by now that Riverbanks’ two sea lions have been transferred to the BrookfieldZoo in Chicago. California sea lions have long been a crowd favorite at Riverbanks, and the decision to tem-porarily remove them from the Zoo’s collection was not an easy one. Riverbanks’ sea lion exhibit was one of the few structures remaining from the Zoo’s 1974 opening (other origi-

nal exhibits include the cat/bear grottos, the siamang islands, Riverbanks Conservation Outpost and the giraffe exhibit). At 35 years of age, the sea lion exhibit was clearly at the end of its useful life. The artificial rock cliffs (made from sculptured concrete) were beginning to crumble and the filtration system was on its last leg. Like any other business, we were forced to make an important but obvious decision: invest money in an outdated, aging facility or start over from scratch—or, put into simpler terms, determine whether or not to throw away good money after bad. Being good stewards of the taxpayers’ money, we chose the latter. The fact is that we know we can do a much better job of exhibiting sea lions, both from an animal health and welfare perspective and from the standpoint of guest satisfaction. Like many of the animals in our care, we know far more today about the biology of sea lions than we did in 1974. For instance, we know that sea lions, animals that spend their entire lives in the ocean, are more sensitive to fresh water than first thought.Indeed, salt water is a key component to maintaining good ocular (eye) health. From an exhibit design standpoint, we also

know that a new exhibit, with underwater viewing, will provide our guests with an opportunity to observe these incredibly graceful animals as they were meant to be. Keeping animals in water, whether we’re talking about fish or sea lions, is a very expensive endeavor, and our next challenge will be to secure the funds necessary to construct a new exhibit. This will undoubtedly be done through the issue of general obligation bonds. The Riverbanks Park Commission, thegoverning authority of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, haspreviously issued bonds on four occasions: for the originalconstruction of the Zoo in 1974; in support of a 1986 issueresulting in the addition of the Riverbanks Farm, Kenya Café and Aquarium Reptile Complex; another issue in 1991 that funded the Botanical Garden; and again in 1999 in support of the West Columbia Garden entrance, the new Birdhouse and Ndoki Forest (for elephants and gorillas). Each of these bond issues resulted in a bigger and better Riverbanks. They not only produced better exhibits, they also helped us attract more visi-tors from out-of-town and out-of-state, thereby strengthening the local economy. Over the next several months, we will be meeting with representatives of Richland and LexingtonCounty Councils in order to make our next case for a bigger and better Riverbanks (where sea lions would ultimately return). Finally, I want to remind you that removing a beloved animal is not an unprecedented decision. Many members will recall that in the early 2000s we sent our elephants to other zoos while we demolished Riverbanks’ old elephant exhibit and con-structed a new one (part of the Ndoki Forest exhibit complex). The new elephant barn and exhibit are now far better than the old ones, and our animals are thriving in their new home. We know we can do the same for our sea lions.

It is our mission to foster appreciation and concern for all living things.We are dedicated to providing:

the highest standards of care for our animal and plant collections.

a diverse educational and high-quality recreational experience for all Riverbanks visitors.

all the resources at our disposal for the conservation of the earth’s flora and fauna.

Plan Your GiftsMany of you will make a gift to charity this year, and we ask that you consider making that investment in Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Through a planned gift, you help to guarantee that future generations will enjoy the magnificent animals and plants at Riverbanks, while helping accomplish your own

goals of future financial security or disbursement of your estate. Planned gifts may include gifts of cash, stock or securities, life insurance or IRAs, trusts or bequests. Should you have any questions regarding the advantages of planned giving, please feel free to call 803.779.8717 x1101.

IT’S A BOYLewis the giraffe was born on

February 9, 2009, at 8:40am.

Raising a Gentle GiantWith remarks by Andrea Mueller, Senior Hoofstock Keeper and Operant Conditioning Coordinator

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IF AT FIRST WE DON’T SUCCEED...Animal care staff offered milk to the reluctant calf in a variety of ways including a one-liter bottle—with a nipple designed for lambs—and a bucket. Lewis finally chose the bucket and continues to

take his daily feedings from it.

GOT MILK?After feeding, Lewis lifts his head from the

bucket, sporting a muzzle soaked with milk. His sensation to suckle is strong, and he satisfies his

urge by sucking on the keepers’ arms.

ARE YOU MY MOTHER?Lewis nursed from his mother Sharon initially, but after 10 days the animal care staff observed

that he was not consuming enough milk. He was moved off exhibit for nearly a month so keepers could feed and monitor him around

the clock. The feeding transition frommother to keeper proved challenging

for the newborn and staff.

SHAKY GROUNDGiraffe calves usually stand within one hour after delivery. Lewis took a little more time, standing 1 hour and 45 minutes after birth. Lewis’ dad Charlie giving a nuzzle

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Roughage, such as browse and hay, is animportant component to a giraffe’s diet.Keepers immediately introduced various

types of browse to Lewis at a youngage when his palate was developing.His favorites are sweet gum, honeysuckle, wax myrtle, Ladybanks rose,

red tip and sassafras.

I’LL TRY ONE OF THESE... AND ONE OF THOSE AND...

CRUNCH, MUNCH, MUNCHKeepers added ground-up grain to the milk when Lewis was 8 weeks of age to help him become accustomed to the taste. Now at 4

months, Lewis is starting to consume whole grain pieces and produce including apples,

carrots and sweet potatoes. Carrotsseem to be his favorite.

MORE, PLEASELewis received goat’s milk five times daily for6 weeks, and then was transitioned to cow’s milk. At 8 weeks, Lewis was completely on

cow’s milk, eating four times a day. Currently,at 4 months of age, he is consuming more

than 3 1/2 gallons of milk a day.

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GOOD BOYHusbandry and behavioral training are an

important part of animal care at Riverbanks. Keepers started training Lewis at 4 weeks old to step on a scale and help us trim his hooves.

His positive behavior was reinforced with scratches on his neck and behind his ears.

Now that he is consuming solid foods,keepers are introducing him to some

training tools, a clickerand target pole.

NO TALL TALEAt birth, Lewis was about 5’ 5” and 126

pounds. He is growing very quickly, gaining about 4 pounds a day and stretching to almost 2 more feet in height. At 4 months, Lewis is 349 pounds and about 7 feet tall. He will be around

10 feet tall by his first birthday!

GROWING UP... AND UP Adult males can weigh 2,800 pounds and grow

up to 18 feet tall. They are considered fully grown by 8 years of age, but reach reproductive maturity at 3 years.

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Heat Up Your Summer With a Cool Adventure

Available ToursPenguin Grizzly Elephant

Chill out with the penguins, create an icy treat for the lions or participate in a rousing training ses-

sion with the bears. Explore what’s out-of-sight at Riverbanks Zoo with an Adventure Tour. Behind-the-scenes Adventure Tours are the perfect way to

enhance your visit. For more informationand tour schedules, visit www.riverbanks.org

or call 803.978.1110.

Exclusive Adventure ToursPlay Time at the Zoo Training Tails

Great for smaller groups and those whowant an extra wild adventure!

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Adults - $20 • Seniors 65 & over/Active-duty military/Full time college students - $17 •Youth 17 & younger - $12

TownTheatre, 1012 Sumter Street, Columbia, SC • Call 803-799-2510 for tickets/information.

MUSIC BY ALAN MENKENLYRICS BY HOWARD ASHMAN & TIM RICE

BOOK BY LINDA WOOLVERTON

The “tale as old as time” will captivate your hearts as Belle,

the Beast and all the enchanted objects sing and dance

through this magical classic. The cast of more than 60 is

complete with high-kicking napkins, serenading spoons and even a

cheese or two! So, Be Our Guest as we bring the Beast to Town!

Director/Choreographer: Shannon Willis Scruggs

Musical Director: Christopher A. McCroskey

Curtain: 7:30 Wednesdays through Fridays2:00 Saturdays and Sundays

July 10-26, 2009SPONSORED BY:

SOWELL, GRAY, STEPP & LAFFITTE, LLC

THE LAW OFFICES OF DESA BALLARD, PAForest Drive and Two Notch

Beauty&BeastAd:Layout 14 5/14/09 3:53 PM Page 1

Whether you pass by or hop aboard the Spots and Stripes Railroad, you will hear bells ring and see lights flash as Riverbanks’ children’s train ride approaches a new, larger-than-life railroad crossing donated by Ansaldo STS (ASTS USA). The generous gift was made possible by Wayne Howard, an ASTS USA electronics technician in the Bateburg/Leesville office and father of Riverbanks maintenance technician Aaron Howard. Wayne proposed the construction and donation of the crossing signal, and by fall of 2008 the project was underway. In April 2009, the gate arm was installed, and Dr. Alan E. Calegari, president and CEO of ASTS USA, and Joseph D. Eiseman, vice president of supply chain and manufacturing, visited Riverbanks to see the final project. In addition to the gate arm crossing, ASTS USA provided kid-friendly signage that emphasizesthe importance of railroad safety.All aboard!

STOP, LOOK AND LISTEN

Left to right: Satch Krantz, Dr. Alan Calegari, Joseph Eiseman and the Riverbanks Maintenance Department

A “Beauty” of a Bonus for Members:Present your Riverbanks membership card and receive one free concession

(limit one free concession with membership card and picture I.D.)

Mark Your CalendarsJuly 2009

2 ZooView webcam zooms in on a new animal17 Members’ Night Out18 Enrichment Encounter

August 2009 1 Brew at the Zoo 6 ZooView webcam zooms in on a new animal

September 2009 3 ZooView webcam zooms in on a new animal 19 Enrichment Day

October 2009 1 ZooView webcam zooms in on a new animal 3 Riverbanks ZOOfari16-18 Boo at the Zoo23-30 Boo at the Zoo

For more information about these and other upcoming events, visit www.riverbanks.org.

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Celebrate the Senses

Enrichment DaySaturday, September 19

Timed enrichment activities everyhalf hour, beginning at 10am

WINNING CONTAINER EXHIBITS

Congratulations to Wingard’s Nursery and Sightler’s Florist, winners of Riverbanks’

Springtime at the Garden exhibit contest last March. The winning container displays and floral

arrangement exhibits reflected the theme of Gardening in the Midlands and featured

plants that grow well in the Great Zone 8.

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MinimumWeight - 40 lbs.

MaximumWeight - 250 lbs.

Two Climbsfor 5 Safari Bucks

One Climb for3 Safari Bucks

Test YourMind and Body

Rock Wallor Coconut Tree

Plant Leaves Turning Black? Why?

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Discovering that the shiny green leaves of your favorite camelliaare covered with a black sticky substance that appears to come from nowhere may be more than a little puzzling to thehomeowner fearing the worst. Not to worry—this black, sooty mold does not infect plants or cause disease. It is growing on the surface of the plant and is getting nourishment from honeydew that is excreted by sap-sucking insects such as aphids, scale, whiteflies, mealybugs and others. When sooty mold is severeit can reduce the vigor of plants by blocking sunlight necessaryfor photosynthesis (food production). Once the honeydew producing insect is brought under control, through the use of organic or chemical treatment, the sooty mold can be wipedoff the plant leaves. For more information contact the Clemson Extension office nearest you.

From the Clemson Extension Urban Horticulture Center

How to Grow a Fall Tomato Crop

In South Carolina, we are fortunate that we can grow a second crop of tomatoes after the first plants from the spring have reached their growing limits. July and early August are the best times to take the cuttings necessary for a fall crop of tomatoes. Cuttings from existing plants are desirable because theyproduce fruit faster than seedlings and will produce plantsidentical to the hybrids which you are growing. Here’s how:

Fill some small 4” to 5” containers with moist potting soil. Using a pencil, make a deep hole for your cutting.

Locate suckers on your existing tomato plants that do not have buds on them (preferably near the top of the plant) and remove the bottom leaves. Keep the remaining two top leaves.

Using a razor blade or box cutter, cut a 5” to 8” piece of the plant. Push into your potting mix hole as deeply as possible. Roots will form along any length of the stem put into the soil.

Place your container in a shaded spot and keep well watered for up to one week, then gradually expose to more sun.

After one week, transplant your seedling into a garden bed and water liberally for a few days.

Get ready to harvest tasty tomatoes right up until frost!

Melodie Scott-Leach, Director of Habitat Horticulture

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Gingers have long been additions to the garden for anyone seeking a tropical look, and Hedychium ‘Elizabeth’ is noexception. The long, glossy leaves are a cooling foil against the backdrop of a fence or hedge. Reaching about 8 feet in a season, Elizabeth will top out the last 12 inches with a flower cluster that erupts in coral-colored 1-inch flowers. Not only is the flower color vivid, the honeysuckle-like scent is a treat for the nose. The gingers, as a group of plants, are native to Asia. They do not produce seeds because they are sterile, so propagation must occur through division. As with other gingers, large masses can form, and it is good to dig every few years and share with friends and neighbors. All Hedychium gingers do best in full sun with perhaps some afternoon shade here in the South. They are extremely tolerant of moisture laden soil but adapt well to a normal garden situation. Once frost hits, simply cut back all of the brown foliage. Since their leaves and flowers reach great heights, it is best to plant these gingers in the back ofthe border. So if the tropical look is for you, add some gingers tothe landscape and sit back and enjoy the show.

Melodie Scott-Leach, Director of Habitat Horticulture

Gardener’s Profile Originally from Florence, SC, Meghan Hemingway’s back-ground in science led her to an internship at a wetland restoration nursery in Maryland. During the internship, she realized that she wanted to focus on plants, so in February 2008 she made her way back South to work at the Botanical Garden. Meghan is responsible for maintaining the Old Rose Garden. She likes the idea of old roses; they have been around forever and are such a big part of history. From the beginning, Meghan knew that her area would be a challenge, but she has lived up to that challenge and tackled it head-on. She enjoys pairing plants with roses and tries to use many of the pass-along plants that have also been around for awhile. Meghan thinks yarrow looks great with the roses, but the columbine Aquilegia vulgaris ‘Adelaide Addison’ is her favorite because of the vivid purple blooms that appear so early in spring—a color not typically found at that time of year. Meghan’s appreciation for nature and her enthusiasm for plants make it easy to stay optimistic in the strenuous environment. She has learned that although it is important to look down and focus on the weeds, it is just as important to look up. Meghan lovessharing her knowledge with others, so if you ever see her hardat work among the roses, don’t be afraid to stop and ask hera question.

Amanda Segura, Garden Education Coordinator 13

Plant Spotlight – Hedychium ‘Elizabeth’

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Our award-winning education programs are a greatway to learn more about the fascinating life at

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden!

These memorable, impactful programs start at $9.If you are not a Riverbanks member, a general admission

ticket will be required in addition to the program fee,as admission is not included in the price of

ZOOventure or Garden Programs.

Programs for children ages 2–6 include arts and crafts,story time, games, live animal encounters and Zoo walks.

These programs require one adult to attend witheach child at no extra charge.

As always, we are interested in your commentsand suggestions and invite you to call the Education

Department for all ZOOventure programsat 803.779.8717 x1400, 9am to 4:30pm,

Tuesday through Friday.

For Garden programs, call 803.779.8717 x1799.A registration form is below or you can register

online at www.riverbanks.org.

We look forward to seeing you at Riverbanks!

ZOOVENTURE PROGRAM REGISTRATION FORM

Participant’s Name:______________________________________________ Age:_______ Parent/Registrant’s Name:_______________________________________________________

Street Address:_______________________________________________________________ City:_______________________________ State:________________ Zip:_________________

Member #:____________________ Email:________________________________________ Phone # (h):__________________________ Work/Cell #:____________________________

Please make checks payable to Riverbanks Zoo & Garden. Mail completed form and payment to: Riverbanks Zoo & GardenAttn: Education DepartmentPO Box 1060Columbia, SC 29202-1060or register online at www.riverbanks.org

Program(s) Date Time Fee

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

Program(s) Date Time Fee

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

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ZOOventure Programs/Early Childhood ClassesFall classes will begin in September. Visit www.riverbanks.org for the complete schedule.

Pony ClassesMeet our Shetland Ponies up close and personal! Young pony lovers will have a chance to feed, brush and ride the ponies. This class is sure to be full of excitement! Parent participation is required for Pony Pals and Pony Whisperer. Check online at www.riverbanks.orgfor dates and prices. Online registration only please.Pony Pals Ages: 3–4Pony Whisperer Ages: 5–7Pony Care 101 Ages: 8–12

Garden Classes and Workshops for AdultsClever Curb AppealThis 2-part workshop will provide participants with the knowledge they need to make their home look like a professional landscape.

Saturday, August 22, 10am-noonLow Maintenance, High Performance PlantsThese shrubs and trees will create a beautiful foundation, providing color and texture year round, without a lot of maintenance—perfect for working families, new homeowners and those without a lot of spare time.

Saturday, September 12, 10am-noonFocal Points and AccentsGet the most bang for your buck by choosing the right accents for your landscape. Pair those high performance shrubs with a stunning focal point, and your house will be the envy of the neighbors. Whether you use a mass of annuals in a key spot, provide hardscape as a structural element, or simply place a piece of art in the garden, the right accent can make all the difference.

COMING THIS FALLEarth Friendly Gardening WorkshopsAs we learn more about all the harm we cause in the environment, it is more important than ever to create a beautiful landscape without the chemicals and toxins. Not only does this greatly benefit the Earth, but it promotes healthier gardens and costs less than traditional chemical-based methods of gardening. Join us for this 2-day series.Visit www.riverbanks.org for details.

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Cubs No More – The Pride of Riverbanks Celebrates Its First BirthdayThis June marked the first birthdays of the five lions that were born at Riverbanks last summer. Johari, Chuma,Jasiri-Congaree, Lina and Saied, all nearing 200 pounds, are no longer considered cubs. On Saturday, June 13,

Riverbanks hosted a birthday party to celebrate the milestone, complete with presents of enrichmentfor the lions and goody bags and cubcakes for the first 200 visiting kids.

HOT SPOTIt’s HOT outside! The lions enjoy ice cold enrichment treats in this heat. Here are some enriching

recipes that will keep pets and yourself cool this summer, too.

Pet Popsicle

Fill an ice cube tray halfway with water and the other half with canned tuna or catnip (for cat) or a can of chicken bouillon (for dog). Freeze the ice

cubes and serve to your furry friend.

Lion Lemonade

1 can frozen lemonade1 cup lemon-lime soda

4 scoops frozen vanilla yogurt5-6 ice cubes

Mix all the ingredients together in a blender. Add whipped cream to the top. To make a fuzzy mane,

add some sprinkles!

CHUMAHe is the largest of the cubs.

JASIRI-CONGAREEShe is active & always on the go.

JOHARIShe is very calm & serene.

HOT

LINAShe is the most playful.

SAIEDHe is confident & independent.

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Near threatened due to habitat loss and hunting. As the human population increases, available habitat for giraffes is reduced. Giraffes also are poached for their meat, hair and hide.

African savanna

Giraffe Overlook adjacent to the zebras and ostriches

The giraffes are on exhibit daily from 9:30am to 4:30pm. Between 10:00am and 3:00pm, the giraffe feeding platform is open so guests can have an up-close and personal experience with the animals.

In the wild, giraffes browse the tops of Acacia trees. At the Zoo, they like browse (i.e., tender vegetation) such as sweet gum, bamboo and willow.

The giraffe is the tallest living land animal. Males can reach a height of 16 to 18 feet while females are slightly smaller at 14 to 16 feet. You may think that a giraffe’s long neck is supported by hundreds of neck vertebrae, but actually it has only seven vertebrae like most other mammals—the giraffe’s vertebrae are just much longer.

Riverbanks currently houses one adult male, three adult females and one male calf. How can we tell them apart? Giraffes have a unique pattern of spots that allows their keepers to identify each herd member.

Common

North Africa (from Senegal to Tanzania)

Birdhouse in the Savanna Camp

The birds are fed twice daily at approximately 10:00am and 4:00pm.

At the Zoo, bee-eaters feed on giant mealworms, crickets, bees (from Riverbanks bee hives), hard-boiled egg and bird pellets carefully soaked and mashed for palatability.

Bee-eaters in the wild will ride on the backs of large mammals to catch insects that are “flushed out.” They are also said to gravitate towards brush fires for the same reason.

Like a harpoon, bee-eaters fly at their nest sites to excavate tunnels inthe soil.

Giraffa camelopardalis

Merops nubicus

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Anytime—but for a special treat, be sure to visit during the daily diving demonstration at 12:30pm

In the wild, these stingrays like to come closer to shore when the tide comes in to feed on small critters such as crabs and worms. When the tide goes out, the stingrays retreat and seek shelter in caves and under ledges. Stingrays at the Zoo eat squid, shrimp, clams and fish.

Stingrays are related to sharks in the class Elasmobranchii. They have cartilage for support, rather than bones. This species is ovoviviparous, meaning the babies are born from eggs, but the mom retains the eggs until birth. She can have up to 7 pups (baby stingrays) at a time.

We have one blue-spotted stingray who loves attention! Her house name is Periwinkle, and she was born at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. She arrived at Riverbanks when she was only a month old. She loves to interact with the diver during the daily dive show. Not only does she get a great meal, but she also gets to be touched by the diver. She does not shy away and actually seems to enjoy the excitement during feeding time. It’s true that she is venomous (with a poisonous spine on her tail), but she is so gentle that she is not a threat to our divers.

(translates as “toad with horns”—but it’s not a toad, it’s a frog)Horned frogs live in the substrate of the emerald tree boa exhibit in the Aquarium Reptile Complex Tropical Gallery.

Anytime, but look closely. The very effective camouflage of horned frogs makes them a challenge to find.

In the wild, horned frogs feed to a great extent on other frogs. Here at the Zoo, they eat insects and small mice.

Horned frogs are mostly mouth. They have huge powerful jaws, which make up about one third of their total body length, and large vampire-like teeth. In order to lure other frogs within striking range, a horned frog will often place one hind foot on top of its head and wiggle its toes, which mimics the irresistible worms preyed on by its own dinner.

Horned frogs don’t have very good visual acuity. Very often they will leap out and grab anything that moves in front of them—including keepers’ fingers or, in the wild, the legs of domestic cattle. South American cowboys (or gauchos), who think that the frogs are venomous, will often blame unexpected cattle deaths on frog bites.

Taeniura lymma

Common, but may be near-threatened

Indo-West Pacific Ocean (Red Sea and East Africa to the Solomon Islands, north to South Japan and and south to North Australia)

Indo-Pacific Coral Reef tank in the Aquarium Reptile Complex

Common but susceptible to drying conditions in their habitat due to global warming

The marshy Pampean region of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay

By Andy Cabe,Director of Botanical Garden

Growing the Next Koala Café

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Keeping koalas fed at Riverbanks is not as easy as it might seem. When visitors see the furry, loveable creatures munch-ing on eucalyptus, they may not realize all of the intricacies involved in obtaining the picky eaters’ favorite dish. Eucalyptus is brought in to Riverbanks year-round from commercial farms in Arizona and Florida that specialize in growing browse (i.e., fresh, tender vegetation) for koalas.Additional eucalyptus is purchased from a farm inCharleston, SC, during the warmer months. Other thanbeing expensive (product costs are steep and freight charges are a killer due to the oversized packages and need for refrigeration), procuring eucalyptus is a rather straightfor-ward process—unless the shipment doesn’t arrive. A limited backup supply of browse is kept refrigerated, but it remains palatable to koalas for only a short period of time. So when shipments are late, we get a little concerned around here. While we have never had a major issue with our browse sup-ply, with more than 250 shipments coming our way annually, we inevitably experience delivery disruptions and delays from time to time. I distinctly remember driving to the Charleston eucalyptus farm with the commissary supervisor several years ago on Christmas Eve to hand-cut eucalyptus because we did not get our regularly scheduled Florida shipment. After all, the koalas had to have their Christmas dinner, too! To help alleviate the concern about delayed shipments of eucalyptus browse, we began keeping an emergency supply of plants in our nursery area of the Botanical Garden Growing Center. This emergency supply is capable of supplying koalas with several days’ worth of browse. Unfortunately, it seems that most of our koalas’ favorite varieties of eucalyptus don’t fare too well in our winters (the commonly grown “silver dol-lar” eucalyptus is not a top koala pick). The browse species we planted onsite struggled during the cold winters, and many did not survive. This meant we needed to grow them in a green-house; and after several years of storing containerized eucalyp-tus trees in our standard greenhouses, we realized that it was time for a dedicated eucalyptus greenhouse.

In 2008, construction began on a new greenhouse solely for growing eucalyptus. We started by preparing the floor of the greenhouse. While many traditional greenhouses have concrete

or gravel floors, this greenhouse has a floor of amended soil. We took the existing soil and added organic matter, sand and bark to improve the fertility and drainage. All of this soil work was done so that the eucalyptus trees could be planted directly in the ground rather than in containers. The theory here: plants grow-ing in the ground produce better browse yields. After the soil was prepared, the actual greenhouse struc-ture was built. While a gas heater was installed to keep the greenhouse warm enough for the eucalyptus trees to actively grow through the winter (remember: koalas are quite finicky and only eat the fresh, new growth on the tips of branches), the sides of the greenhouse were designed to roll up, so we can cool down the greenhouse on summer days without the expense of a cooling system.

This spring, we planted two of the koalas’ favorite species,Eucalyptus robusta and Eucalyptus tereticornis. In all, we planted 36 trees in the greenhouse. When planted, each tree was about 4 feet tall and growing in 15-gallon pots. To sup-press weed growth and help retain moisture, we added mulch around each tree. The trees will be pruned annually to help maintain height and maximize browse production. Now with a permanent backup supply firmly in place, we can rest a bit easier if a regularly scheduled browse shipment is delayed. Hopefully, we will begin producing enough browse so that we can periodically harvest it for feeding and perhaps cut back on a shipment or two—saving the Zoo a bit of money and providing the koalas with something they can really sink their teeth into, willingly.

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Narcissus ‘February Gold’Early blooming variety with all yellow flowers and recurved petals.(early bloom, 14-16”) $5.00

Narcissus ‘Jenny’Cute little cultivar that starts out with white petals and a yellow trumpet that fades to a creamy white as the flower ages. (early bloom, 8-10”) $5.00

Narcissus ‘Replete’Great double flowered daffodil with white outer petals and a ruffled salmon interior.(mid-season bloom,18”) $5.00

It’s hard to believe it is already time to set the stage for the fall gardening season! The Riverbanks horticulture staff has picked another superb selection of highly acclaimed bulbs to transform your garden into center stage. This year, several bulbs are making their sale debut and many old favorites are returning for an encore.NO AUDITIONING NECESSARY Pick your cast of characters from our tried-and-truelist today! Order online at www.riverbanks.orgor complete and return the enclosed order form.

Either way, you’ll have first choice on these premium performers. Shipping costs are an additional 10% of the total order, or a minimum charge of $5 and a maximum of $25. Save money, packaging and time by planning to pick up your advance order on the day of the sale. Your order will be ready and waiting for you! Of course, there also will be bulbs available on the day of the sale, if you prefer to do your shopping in person.

Saturday, November 7 9am to noonWest Columbia Entrance In the Bog Garden Plaza

Narcissus ‘Fortune’Four inch wide flowers with bright yellow petals and a wide orange cup (mid-season bloom, 18-20”) $5.00

Narcissus ‘Sorbet’Crazy looking variety with white petals and a split cup that has shades of white, yellow and orange. For those who like the unusual.(late bloom, 16”) $6.00

Narcissus ‘Chromacolor’Pure white petals provide a nice backdrop for the vivid deep pink cup. (mid-late bloom, 16”) $7.00

Narcissus ‘Baby Moon’Sweetly scented yellow jonquil, 3-4 flowers per stem. (late bloom, 12”) $5.00

DAFFODILS – Checkout this sensational selection of daffodils! These are some of our favorites—and great choices for the Southern climate. 10 bulbs/bag

Get Your Garden In The Spotlight

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TULIP COMBOSFor the first time, we are offering mixes of tulips. Each combo is designed so the bulbs in each will bloom at the same time, providing an amazing splash of color to your display. 50 bulbs/bag

Tulipa ‘Monte Carlo’Wonderful double flowered variety with yellow petals. Great fragrance. (late bloom, 12”) $5.00

Tulipa ‘Black Hero’Exquisite glossy black double flowers with hints of red on outer petals. (late bloom, 16-20”) $5.00

TULIPSEven though they are annuals in the South, tulips are a sure sign that spring is on the way. These varieties are sure to brighten up your garden.10 bulbs/bag

Tulipa ‘Kees Nelis’Blood red flowers with yellow-orange edging. A definite conversation piece. (mid-seasonbloom, 16") $5.00

Tulipa ‘Blueberry Ripple’Wow! This tulip has amazing coloration. Blue-violet and white flowers. It looks good enough to eat! (mid-season bloom, 18”) $5.00

Tulipa ‘Kingsblood’ Tulipa ‘Big Smile’

Red and yellow tulips will help heat up your spring!(Late bloom, 20”) $20.00

Tulipa ‘Big Smile’ Tulipa ‘Maureen’

Let the yellows and whites add some punch to yourspring garden. (Late bloom, 20”) $20.00

SPECIES TULIPSPerennial tulips? Yes, it's true! These varieties will bring joy to your garden for years to come.20 bulbs/bag(mid-season bloom) Tulipa clusiana ‘Cynthia’

Red petals with chartreuse edges and a purple base. (8-10") $5.00

Tulipa clusiana var.chrysanthaRed exterior with a contrasting bright yellow interior.(8-10") $5.00

Tulipa ‘Lady Jane’ Petals are red with a white edge. Flower opens to a white interior. One of lastyear’s best sellers!(8-10") $8.00

MISCELLANEOUS BULBSA choice selection of some of our favorites at Riverbanks.

Leucojum aestivum Pendulous white flowers in mid-spring. Great for naturalizing or planting in mass. Will take light shade. (15") 5 bulbs/bag $4.00

Scilla peruviana - Blooms in spring with a baseball-sized, 18”-tall blue flower which is a beautiful blue. Space 12” apart.3 bulbs/bag – $10.00

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CRINUMSOld-time treasures in the Southern garden, crinums are some of the most durable and reliable bulbs you’ll ever find. Limited availability. Order early! Crinums are packaged one bulb per bag.

Crinum ‘Cecil Houdyshel’Pink flowers begin appearing in May/June and continue throughout the summer. $20.00

Crinum ‘Summer Nocturne’Compact, clump forming crinum with cream colored flowers and lavender tips. Fragrant. Rapidly offsets.$20.00

xAmarcrinum memoria-corsiiThis semi-evergreen bulb is a cross between a Crinum and Amaryllis belladonna. Large, fragrant pink flowers appear in summer amidthe 2-foot strap-like foliage. Fullsun-part shade. $8.00

Crocus ‘Gypsy Girl’ Bright yellow flowers with reddish-plum colored stripes at the base of each outer petal. (very early bloom, 6”)20 bulbs/bag – $4.00

Allium cristophii Softball-sized flower heads comprised of hundreds of star-shaped amethyst flowers. (early summerflower - 18”) 5 bulbs/bag $4.00

Arum italicum - Great for shade! Green and white variegated foliage in winter, followed by a flower and cluster of red berries borne on a single stalk. 10 bulbs/bag – $8.00

Allium schubertii Vollyball-sized globe which has rose/purple flower. Makes a great dried flower. (12”)3 bulbs/bag – $4.00

MISCELLANEOUS BULBSContinued from page 21

Muscari armeniacumBright blue flowers resembling small clusters of grapes. Great in masses and a good naturalizer. (early spring bloom, 4-6”) 20 bulbs/bag – $4.00

Hyacinthus orientalis‘Woodstock’Large, beet red flowers. Extremely fragrant.(mid-season bloom, 10”) 10 bulbs/bag – $7.00

Hyacinthus orientalis‘Blue Jacket’Large dark blue flower with purple striping. Extremely fragrant.(mid-season bloom, 10”)10 bulbs/bag – $6.00

Triteleia laxa‘Queen Fabiola’Blue bell-like flowers appear in late spring. Needs good summer drainage. Great cut flowers. (18-24”)20 bulbs/bag – $4.00

Sparaxis sp. (mix) - Known as the harlequin flower. Star-shaped flowers of red, orange, whte, copper and purple appear in late spring. Plant late in season for best results. Treat asan annual.20 bulbs/bag – $4.00

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Name:_________________________________________Shipping Address:_______________________________

City:______________________State:_____Zip:_______Daytime Telephone Number:_____________________

Mail to: Riverbanks Bulb Sale, PO Box 1060, Columbia, SC 29202-1060Questions: Email bulbsale@riverbanks.org or visit www.riverbanks.org

# Bulbs per bag Price per bag # Bags Total

DAFFODILS

Narcissus ‘Baby Moon’ 10 4.00

Narcissus ‘Replete’ 10 5.00

Narcissus ‘Jenny’ 10 5.00

Narcissus ‘February Gold’ 10 5.00

Narcissus ‘Fortune’ 10 5.00

Narcissus ‘Chromacolor’ 10 7.00

Narcissus ‘Sorbet’ 10 6.00

TULIPS

Tulipa ‘Blueberry Ripple’ 10 5.00

Tulipa ‘Kees Nelis’ 10 5.00

Tulipa ‘Monte Carlo’ 10 5.00

Tulipa ‘Black Hero’ 10 5.00

TULIP COMBOS

Tulipa ’Big Smile’ & ‘Maureen’ 50 20.00

Tulipa ‘Kingsblood’ & ‘Big Smile’ 50 20.00

SPECIES TULIPS

Tulipa ‘Lady Jane’ 20 8.00

Tulipa clusiana ‘Cynthia’ 20 5.00

Tulipa clusiana var. chrysantha 20 5.00

MISCELLANEOUS BULBS

Scilla peruviana 3 10.00

Leucojum aestivum 5 4.00

Crocus ‘Gypsy Girl’ 20 4.00

Allium schubertii 3 4.00

Allium cristophii 5 4.00

Arum italicum 10 8.00

Sparaxis sp. 20 4.00

Triteleia laxa ‘Queen Fabiola’ 20 4.00

Hyacinthus orientalis ‘Blue Jacket’ 10 6.00

Hyacinthus orientalis ‘Woodstock’ 10 7.00

Muscari armeniacum 20 4.00

CRINUMS

Crinum ‘Cecil Houdyshel’ 1 20.00

Crinum x ‘Summer Nocturne’ 1 20.00

xAmarcrinum memoria-corsii 1 8.00

May we substitute similar bulbs if necessary? Yes_____ No_____Orders accepted up to October 31, 2009.

Have you ordered from us before? Yes_____ No_____

Bulb Order Total

Shipping

ORDER TOTAL

State sales tax is included in price of bulbs. Shipping $5 minimum or 10% of order

Method of Payment: (Payment is due with order.) Cash Check MC VISA AMEX Discover

Card Number:_____________________________________Expiration Date:_______________________________________

Name On Card:____________________________________Signature:____________________________________________

Check(s) payable to: Riverbanks Zoo & Garden(please print)

Pick up Nov 7Pick up Nov 10Pick up Nov 12 Ship Order

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From Riverbanks to the Brazilian RainforestIn this edition of Riverbanks magazine, the “Conservation Corner” column on page 30 features a project funded by the Riverbanks Conservation Support Fund that is designed to help ensure the long-term survival of the endangered golden-lion tamarin (GLT) in the wild. Here are some interesting facts about GLTs at Riverbanks that you may not know.

The first GLTs to join the Riverbanks collection, a male and a female, arrived on November 25, 1981, from National Zoological Park Center for Biological Research.

GLTs have been at Riverbanks continuously since the first arrivals came 28 years ago.

The first GLT birth at Riverbanks was a male on April 19, 1982. His parents were the second pair of GLTs that arrived at the Zoo on February 18, 1982.

Since then, a total of 71 GLTs have been born at Riverbanks from 6 different females.

In past years, Riverbanks has contributed 15 offspring for the Brazilian reintroduction program: 1987, 5 females; 1988, 1 female; 1991, 3 males and 2 females; 1992, 1 male; 1995, 1 male and 1 female; 1996, 1 male.

Things That Go Bump in the NightYou’ve just finished your second tasty s’more and are still giggling after Mom’s ghost story. It’s time to crawl into your sleeping bag for a cool night under the stars. Are you camping in the mountains? Nope, you are enjoying the nighttime sounds of nature just steps away from home – in your own backyard! Now is the perfect time to campout with your family and connect with local wildlife. So let’s get started!

Where to sleep? You can sleep alfresco under the stars or borrow a tent from a friend. Local camping stores also rent tents, sleeping bags and sleep pads(try The Backpacker in Columbia). By reusing tents, you save money and don’t have to find a place to store it.

Why camp?It’s fun to spend the night outdoors! It’s one of the best ways for kids to get in tune with nature, and it reminds us that we can get by with just the basics and still make great memories. After all, there’s nothing like toasting marshmallows and eating breakfast outside!

What to bring?Check out this Web site for packing lists and helpful camping hints:http://www.nwf.org/BackyardCampout/Get_Ready_to_Camp.cfm

What to do?Go on a nighttime bug hunt or play flashlight tag. Embark on a flash-light scavenger hunt around your yard or gaze up at the stars. Listen for frogs, owls and crickets. Watch the sunrise with a cup of hot chocolate.

The next day After breakfast, continue your wild adventure by visiting the Zooand meet some local reptiles and amphibians in our AquariumReptile Complex!

Heather Dogget, Director of Conservation Education

Ed Diebold, Director of Animal Collections & Conservation Photo courtesy of Luciano Candisani

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Riverbanks Society recognizes the following individuals and businesses for their generosity through cash donations, in-kind donations and support through

Gold level memberships between May 1, 2008, and April 30, 2009.

Individual Members and DonorsMs. Christina Ahles and Ms. Nancy HolmesMr. and Mrs. Neil AkreDixie Kaye AllanMr. Jim AllenMrs. Dorothy B. Allen and Mrs. Cindy B. EdgertonMs. Elizabeth AllisonMr. Philip Allison and Ms. Maxine HenryMs. Wanda AndersonMr. and Mrs. Rick AnthonyMr. and Mrs. Randy ArehartMr. and Mrs. Ben ArnoldMr. and Mrs. David S. Asbill Jr.Dr. Fredrick AstleMr. and Mrs. James S. AullMr. and Mrs. William F. AullMr. and Mrs. Joey AustinMr. Oscar AvinMr. and Mrs. Thomas D. AyersMs. Adrianna AylardMr. and Mrs. Marcel BagleyMr. and Mrs. Brion E. BahnmullerMs. Mary BaileyMr. Chandler BaileyMr. and Mrs. Richard C. BaisleyDr. Elizabeth BakerMr. and Ms. Danny E. BakerS.L.W. and D.B. BakerMrs. Dean BarkerMr. and Mrs. Jim BarkerMr. and Mrs. Casey BarnesMr. and Mrs. Pat BaughmanMr. Kenneth BauknightMr. and Mrs. Robert L. BeamerJanice BeattyKatrina BeckerLogan BedenbaughMr. and Mrs. Kevin BelkaMr. and Mrs. Michael BeneduceMr. Monty BenenhaleyMr. and Mrs. William BennisonKim and Keith BensonRobbie BentleyMr. David N. BerkleyMr. Hubert L. Bernheim and Ms. Ruth A. CarmichaelMs. Berta BerrizMr. and Mrs. Jerry W. BerryMr. and Mrs. David L. BertoliniMr. and Mrs. Ed BignonMr. and Mrs. Jerry K. BirchfieldMr. Peter S. BischoffMr. Jeff BlackwelderMr. and Mrs. Charlie L. BlairBetty L. BlakeMr. and Mrs. Clark BlankenbecklorMr. Gary S. Blatt and Ms. Stephanie L. AlexanderMs. Jean BlaylockMr. and Mrs. Doug BlomMr. and Mrs. Mitch BobinskiMrs. Susan BobinyecMr. and Mrs. James R. BondKenneth BoniMs. Jan BooreMs. Mary Bosworth and Ms. Darlene ClawsonMr. and Mrs. Daniel P. BouknightMr. and Mrs. Joseph BouknightMr. and Mrs. Bernard O. Bourne Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Floyd E. BowlesMrs. Audrey BoyerMs. Krysti Brackett and Ms. Kim BrackettMs. Rebecca N. Bradham

Mr. William S. BradhamMr. and Mrs. John K. Bradley Jr.Mrs. Lesley BrandliMr. and Mrs. Thomas BrandtMr. and Mrs. Ronald A. BrasingtonMr. and Mrs. Robert BrazellRuth M. BrejotMs. D-J BrelandMr. and Mrs. Michael R. BrenanMr. and Mrs. Luther L. Bridges Jr.Mr. and Mrs. William W. BridgesMr. and Mrs. Glenn BroachMr. and Mrs. Scott BrockMrs. Ethel BrodyMr. and Mrs. John BrooksMr. and Mrs. Koster R. BrownMr. and Mrs. Gene BrownMr. and Mrs. Curtis BrownMr. and Mrs. William BrownMr. and Mrs. Douglas C. BrownDr. and Mrs. Alec E. BrownMr. Neil A. BrownMr. and Mrs. Allen T. BrownElizabeth and Travis BruceDr. and Mrs. Charles S. BryanDr. and Mrs. Robert W. BuchananMs. Margaret BuchananMr. and Mrs. Charles R. BucknerMr. and Mrs. Ed BuddinMr. Duncan Buell and Ms. Mary A. GrandjeanJ. C. BuggelMr. and Mrs. Stephen BurchMr. and Mrs. James E. BurkeSammie BurmanMr. and Mrs. Ron BurnsMr. and Mrs. Thomas C. BurtonMr. and Mrs. Marion BurtonMr. and Mrs. Robert L. BusbeeLynn M. ButlerMr. David ButtlesMr. and Mrs. Trent J. ByrdMr. and Mrs. Edward CadoretteMr. and Mrs. Frank CaggianoMr. and Mrs. Paul CammarataMr. and Mrs. Wendell CanipeMs. Connie CannonMr. and Mrs. Peter J. CannonMr. and Mrs. James W. CanteyMr. and Mrs. Dean CarrollMs. Terry M. Carson and Mr. Michael E. ScruggsMr. and Mrs. John B. CarterJamie Carter DVMProf. Lila CartledgeMr. and Mrs. H. B. Case Jr.Dr. Vasa CateMrs. Martha CathouMs. Susan CathouMr. and Mrs. Chris CatoeMr. and Mrs. David H. CauseyMs. Verna CavanaughMr. and Mrs. William CecilMs. Betsy L. Chambers and Ms. Latan C. CoxMs. Cheryl Chandler and Ms. Kelsey JonesMs. Myrtle T. Chapin and Ms. Mary C. O’ConnorMs. Lisa Chapman and Mr. James M. EdwardsMr. and Mrs. Randy ChapmanMr. and Mrs. Henry W. Chappell Jr.Mrs. Virginia ChianelliMr. and Mrs. Dannie M. ChildersMr. and Mrs. Neal ChristiansenMs. Gwynne P. Clamp and Ms. Laurie G. PilcherLinda Clamp

Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd ClarkMr. and Mrs. Jared ClarkMike and Ashley ClarkMs. Marjorie M. Claytor and Ms. Dorothy C. JacksonMr. Raymond E. Cobb and Mr. David K. WilliamsMr. and Mrs. James W. Coble Jr.Mr. and Mrs. John CoganMr. and Mrs. Freeman Coggins Jr.Dr. Gene ColbornMr. and Mrs. John ColemanMr. and Mrs. Larry CollinsFred CollinsBetty and Serena ColquhounMr. Stephen Apolloni and Ms. Christina ComeauMr. and Mrs. Justin ConderMs. Betty S. Conner and Ms. Debi C. PhillipsJo ConnerMrs. Beverly B. Cook and Mr. Clinton H. CookMr. and Mrs. William CookMr. and Mrs. Jimmy W. CookeMs. Betty H. Coombs and Ms. Anne C. Mulligan Jeffrey CourtneyMr. and Mrs. Stephen CourtwrightMr. and Mrs. Craig A. CrawfordMr. and Mrs. Malcolm A. CrossMr. and Mrs. B. K. CrosthwaiteMr. Paul H. CrouchDr. Theresa H. Cuda and Mr. J. T. HancePaul CullenT. R. CullerMr. and Mrs. J. M. CurryDr. and Mrs. Robert T. CuttingMs. Wilhelmina CypriotisMr. and Mrs. Paul CyrMr. and Mrs. Bernard A. DaetwylerMs. Brenda J. Dail and Ms. Nicole DailMr. and Mrs. Bill DanielMs. Winona DarrMr. and Mrs. William H. Davidson IIMr. and Mrs. Robert G. DavidsonMs. Sandra A. DavidsonMs. Nancy D. DavisMr. and Mrs. George W. DavisMr. and Mrs. John DavisMr. and Mrs. J. Edwin Davis IIIPatricia DavyMr. and Mrs. Coker DayMr. and Mrs. Clay DealHazel Deas and Crystal Deas WagnerMr. and Mrs. Joey DedmanMr. and Mrs. Robert DeFeeMs. Jennifer DellacroceMs. Jackie DerrickMr. and Mrs. Jimmy DerrickMr. and Mrs. Warren DerrickRobert DesPortesSusan and Robert DeweyMr. and Mrs. Jim DeylingMichelle and Phil DhunjishahMr. and Mrs. James J. DillonMr. and Mrs. James DiStefanoMr. and Mrs. Ryan DoddMr. and Mrs. Steven C. DoudoukjianMs. Mary G. DouglassMs. Gale Rhodes Dreher and Ms. Renee Dreher ReichJim DriscollDr. and Mrs. Hugh H. DuBoseMr. and Mrs. Theodore B. DuBoseMr. and Mrs. Gary M. DuncanMr. David W. DunlapMr. and Mrs. Larry C. Dunlap

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Ms. Emma DunovantMr. Joseph DupreeMs. Debbie Dusseljee and Mr. Bruce D. BalmerMr. and Mrs. Henry L. EasonMr. and Mrs. Joseph K. EastMr. and Mrs. Dave EbertMr. and Mrs. Lorenz EchererMr. and Mrs. Patrick EleazerMr. and Mrs. John W. ElkinsMr. and Mrs. Richard EllisMr. and Mrs. Robert B. Ellison Jr.Mr. and Mrs. and Mrs. Steven L. EntzeMr. and Mrs. William A. ErnstMr. and Mrs. James EubanksMr. and Mrs. Ed EvansMrs. Brenda Evans-LeeDr. and Mrs. Emmanuel FarberPhil and Cheryl FennigMs. Jeanie F. FerrerMiss Hayley FianchinoMr. and Mrs. James F. FinkMr. Earl T. Fisher Jr.Ms. Beth FlanniganMr. Pedro Flores and Mrs. Liesl DeSevillaMs. Sarah A. Floyd and Ms. Tonya JeffcoatMr. Jeff FolleyMs. Donna E. FordMs. Melissa ForinashMr. and Mrs. Will Fort IIIMr. and Mrs. Thomas N. Fortson Jr.Ms. Virginia A. Foster and Ms. Katie F. ArdMs. Kim Foster and Mr. Walt TobinMr. and Mrs. Alex FournilMr. Richard FowlerBrian FrancisMrs. Patricia FrankMr. Jack FrasherDevyn and Andrew FrazeeJoe Free Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Jim FriarMr. and Mrs. Robert N. FullerMr. and Mrs. Tony FulmerMr. and Mrs. Boyd E. FulmerMr. and Mrs. Kenwood GainesMr. and Mrs. Todd C. Gaines Sr.Ms. Sheila C. Gallagher and Ms. Casey FisherMr. and Mrs. Jason B. GallagherMs. Jessica GalliganMs. Barbara GardnerMs. Kelli J. Gardner and Mr. James D. TrentMr. and Mrs. Larry M. GarosiMs. Debra Garrett and Ms. Janette GodwinMr. and Mrs. Christopher GastonMr. and Mrs. Earl GaultMark and Tena GentryMr. Samuel B. George and Ms. Anne S. ClementDr. and Mrs. William C. GerardRobert and Laurel GibsonMr. Donald W. Gilliland and Ms. Ann G. BurroughsDr. and Mrs. Benjamin GimarcDr. and Mrs. Tom GiudiceMs. Stephanie GivesMs. Bonnie Gleaton and Ms. Marisa CasperMr. Charles GoldmanDr. and Mrs. Allan GoodrichMr. and Mrs. Daniel GravesDrs. Michael L. and Sheila S. GraybealMr. and Mrs. Jack S. GraybillMr. and Mrs. Ralph GregoryMr. and Mrs. Harry B. GregoryMr. Jimmie GreshamCarroll and Terry GriffinMr. Morgan GrimballMs. Melinda GrizzellMr. and Mrs. Philip G. GroseMr. Tom Gross and Ms. Susan HamiltonMr. and Mrs. Jeffrey M. GrowMr. Frank E. Gulley and Mrs. Troy McLaughlinMr. Richard E. HagerMs. Patricia Hall and Ms. Brenda JenningsMs. Joyce A. Hallenbeck

Mr. and Mrs. George O. Hallman Sr.Mr. and Mrs. Brannon HammondMr. and Mrs. Robert E. HamptonMr. Jim HanceMs. Susan HardwickeMr. Wilbur L. HarlingMr. and Mrs. Samuel E. HarmonLeslie HarperMr. and Mrs. Brunson HarrellMr. and Mrs. Gene HarrellMr. and Mrs. Harvey D. HarrelsonMs. Cathy HarrisonMr. and Mrs. Van HarryLarry and Vernon HarseyMr. and Mrs. Bill HaseldenMr. and Mrs. William HaseldenMrs. E. W. HaseldenMs. Betty H. HatchellMr. and Mrs. Robert A. HavensJames HawkinsLeslie HaynesDr. and Mrs. Michael S. HaynesMr. and Mrs. Tom HeatonMs. Nancy HedrickMr. and Mrs. Thomas R. HeiderMr. and Mrs. Baron M. HendrixMr. Jonathan R. Hendrix and Ms. Carolyn B. SteigenMr. and Mrs. Wilson HeplerMr. and Mrs. M.B. HerbertMr. and Mrs. James HerrickMr. and Mrs. Ode P. HerzogMr. and Mrs. Martin HesterMr. and Mrs. H. C. HeywardRonnie HigingbottomEugenia HinsonMr. and Mrs. David S. HippMr. Kenneth HoaglandKathleen HodgensMr. and Mrs. Carl HoefelMr. and Mrs. Donald J. HoelerDr. and Mrs. Warren F. Holland Jr.Ms. Cheryl Holland and Mr. P. Douglas QuackenbushMr. and Mrs. Brian HollisMr. and Mrs. Martin L. Holmes Sr.Ms. Claudia HoltonMr. Stanley HoodMr. and Mrs. George P. HookMs. Edna HookerMr. and Mrs. Stuart HopeMr. and Mrs. Randy HornMr. and Mrs. Shane HorneMs. Nancy Hornsby and Ms. Jennifer ChewningMr. and Mrs. Don HostetlerMs. April HouseMr. and Mrs. Jerry HowardMrs. W. W. HowardMr. and Mrs. John HudsonMrs. Lou Ann HudspithMs. Rosa HughesMrs. Linda HughesCol. and Mrs. Robert E. HumphreysDr. and Mrs. O’Neal HumphriesMr. and Mrs. M. H. Hunter IIIMr. and Mrs. Robert HurstMr. Anthony W. HuttoMr. and Mrs. Clyde IrelandMs. Evelyn IrwinMrs. Janet B. JabsMrs. Shirley JacksonMr. and Mrs. John L. JacksonMr. and Mrs. Peter B. JacksonMark and Monique JacobsMs. Linda JacobsMr. and Mrs. Russ M. JacobsMr. and Mrs. Norris L. JamisonMs. Peggy M. Janicki and Ms. Mary JanickiMr. and Mrs. Herbert H. JeffersMr. and Mrs. Robert V. JensenMr. and Mrs. Jack P. JohnsonMr. and Mrs. James H. JohnsonMs. Kathleen Johnson

Mr. David T. Johnson and Ms. Mayola ShellMr. Ronald JohnsonRita JohnsonMs. Susan H. JohnsonMr. and Mrs. Dale JohnstonMr. Lewis M. Jones and Mrs. Rebecca L. GowansMr. Rick Jones Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Gordon L. JonesMr. and Mrs. David JonesMr. and Mrs. Charles R. Jones Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Walter H. JonesFrances JonesMs. Sherilyn JordanMr. and Mrs. Ronald M. JordanMr. and Mrs. Walt JosephPerry JudithMrs. Elizabeth KarrWilliam R. Keane and Ann E. RudermanMr. and Mrs. William J. Keenan IIIMr. and Mrs. Jim KelleherMs. Grace Keller and Mr. Michael VerdoneScott and Renee KellyMr. and Mrs. Edward F. Kenealy Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Brian C. KennedyMr. James KerbyMr. and Mrs. Jakob A. KettenhofenMr. and Mrs. Barry T. KightMr. and Mrs. Zachary KilpatrickMr. James M. KimballMs. Mary KinardMr. and Mrs. Fred L. Kingsmore Jr.Mrs. Tammy KirkleyMr. Jim Kirschner and Ms. Anne HutchinsMs. Margaret KirtleyMrs. Margaret KleckleyMr. James R. KleinDr. Melissa Kling-NewberryMr. and Mrs. Walter KochanskiMs. Christel KoepckeHal KohnMr. and Mrs. Todd KolbSanford KoonMr. and Mrs. Christopher KopeckyMr. Leonard J. KorsonMs. Carol KososkiMr. and Mrs. Palmer E. Krantz IIIMs. Pamela B. Kurokawa and Ms. Carol J. BakerMs. Kirsten Lackstrom and Mr. Randy WesterkamMr. and Mrs. Rick LailMr. and Mrs. Robert LambMr. and Mrs. James R. LambertMr. and Mrs. Scott D. LaneMs. Sabine LangMr. Thomas Lange and Ms. Elaine CampMr. L. R. LangleyMr. and Mrs. Ronald LanierMs. Terri LaniganDr. Jane L. LaRocheMs. Linda Lasecki and Ms. Sharon TarasowskiMr. and Mrs. Shelton S. LattimoreMr. and Mrs. Adam LaubackerMs. Eleanor LaudeLaura LawMallory LawrenceMr. and Mrs. Stan LawrimoreDr. and Mrs. Richard M. LawsonMr. and Mrs. Robert LeakDr. Ashley R R. LeaphartMr. and Mrs. Frank LeeMr. and Mrs. David W. Lee Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Michael LeFeverMr. Robert LeheupMr. and Mrs. Dave LeopardMr. Edward LernerMr. and Mrs. James C. LeventisMr. and Mrs. Richard LevickDr. Philip LevinMs. Lucy M. LewisTexin Li and Yongjian HanMr. and Mrs. Jason LiesterLucy M. Lindsay and Silvia C. Garcia

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Mr. and Mrs. Dempsey M. LivelyMr. and Mrs. Bob E. LivingstonMr. and Mrs. Troy LoadholtMs. Margaret M. Loftis and Mr. Kenley LoftisMs. Erin LoganMr. John F. Logue and Ms. Carolyn A. WestMs. Michelle LongMr. and Mrs. Kevin LongKim LopezMs. Elizabeth LorickMr. and Mrs. Robert H. Lovvorn Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Jason LoweRandy LowellMs. Dorothy H. LowmanHanno zur Loye and Dee HullMs. Karen LucasMr. and Ms. DC LucchesiMr. and Mrs. Fred LuptonMr. and Mrs. Mark LureyMs. Tara LynchMrs. Diana LyonsMr. and Mrs. John LyonsDr. Ginger MacaulayMr. and Mrs. Daniel S. MacNeillMr. and Mrs. Robert MaesMr. and Mrs. Kevin MahoneyMr. and Mrs. Greg MalcomMr. and Mrs. James MaloneyMr. and Mrs. Carl ManheimMr. and Mrs. James ManningA. S. MarchantMs. Evelyn C. MarionMr. and Mrs. Robert MarklandMr. and Mrs. John W. MarnellMr. and Mrs. Ray MarrMr. and Mrs. Ray MarrMr. Timothy MarshallDr. Edward Martin Jr.Mr. and Mrs. David MartinMr. and Mrs. Marwan MarzagaoMs. Leyla MasonMr. and Mrs. Philip S. MasseyMr. and Mrs. Joel W. MastersMr. and Mrs. Tony O. MastersMr. and Mrs. Wayne MathewsJan MathiasMr. and Mrs. Harvey R. MathiasMr. and Mrs. Gary MathisMrs. and Mr. Sharon B. MatternMrs. Janice Mattox-BaldwinMr. and Mrs. Iraj MazloomMs. Ann McAndrewsChris and Christina McCartyMr. Robert E. McClintockMs. Jamie Y. McCullochMrs. Cynthia D. McCulloughDr. and Mrs. Ernest McCutcheonMr. and Mrs. Michael McDarghMr. and Mrs. Thomas J. McDonoughDrs. Dee and Kay McFarlandMr. and Mrs. William A. McInnisMr. and Mrs. Julius W. McKayDr. and Mrs. Geoffrey R. McKeeMr. and Mrs. Henry McKellarPatti and Bob McKownMr. and Mrs. Ike McLeeseMrs. Eleanor S. McLeodMr. and Mrs. Knox McMahonMr. Edward McMillionMr. and Mrs. Al McNeillMs. Betty McWhorterMr. and Mrs. Rick MeachamMr. & Mrs. Chip MeltonMr. and Mrs. Paul M. MengesMr. and Mrs. Thomas C. Meredith IIIMr. and Mrs. Tracy W. Middlebrooks Jr.Mr. Harry Miley and Ms. Ingrid McReynoldsMr. and Mrs. Wilburn S. MillerMs. Sandie MillerMr. Mike MillerShayne and Jeni Miller

Mr. Jason L. Miller and Ms. Tanja RottesMr. and Mrs. Scott MimsLisle and Barbara MitchellMs. Kathy MitchellMs. Eva C. Mitchener and Ms. Anna GardnerMrs. Shawn MizellMs. H. R. MonroeMr. and Mrs. Allen MontgomeryMrs. Mary Moon and Ms. Meredith MoonMr. John H. MooreMs. Anne MooreDr. and Mrs. Nicholas K. MooreMr. and Mrs. Michael C. MorandMr. and Mrs. Billy E. MorrisMr. McLendon G. MorrisMr. and Mrs. Tommy MorrisMr. and Mrs. Steve MorrisonMr. and Mrs. Christopher MorrisonMs. Linda MoukasMs. Irene Moye and Ms. Renitia AndersonMr. and Mrs. John MoyerMr. and Mrs. H. C. MuellerMr. Robert MullenMr. and Mrs. Steven W. MungoMr. Michael MungoMs. Laura MurchisonMr. and Mrs. Bob MurphyMr. Ronald Myatich and Ms. Michelle ByrdMr. and Mrs. Cecil A. MyersMr. V. James NasoMr. Jonathan H. NasonMr. and Mrs. Ernest J. Nauful Jr.Ms. Jill NazareteMr. and Mrs. Kenneth A. NelsonMr. Richard Nelson and Ms. Christine ZuraskyDrs. Francis and Mary NeufferMr. and Mrs. Robert W. NeugebauerMr. and Mrs. Curt R. NevilleMr. and Mrs. Edward NicksDr. and Mrs. Herbert B. NiestatMs. Roberta J. NissiMr. and Mrs. W. C. NixMr. and Mrs. J. W. NoeltnerMrs. Alice NolteLane NortonRita O’ReillyMr. and Mrs. C. Hardy Oliver Jr.Mrs. Ann B. OliverMs. Kathy Olson and Mr. Robert BarnettMr. and Mrs. Earl M. OlsonMr. Michael Orlowski and Ms. Rachel VailMr. and Mrs. Michael OtisJames OverbayMs. Jeanne Owen and Mr. Jim GiandeliaMr. and Mrs. John OysMr. and Mrs. Denny PainterMr. and Mrs. Harold B. PalmerMajor Tally ParhamMr. and Mrs. Brett ParksManhar and Gira PatelJewell PattersonJudy and Doug PattersonMr. and Mrs. Leslie D. PeachMr. and Mrs. Leslie W. PeakeMr. John A. PeccaMr. and Mrs. Dennis M. PensmithMr. John J. Perissi and Ms. Dominque A. GeerMSgt Patrick Perkinson and Ms. Dotty DefreestMs. Lauren PetroffMr. Anthony W. PetrolitoMrs. Alison PhillipsMr. and Mrs. Richard PhilyawMr. and Mrs. Fred PierceMr. and Mrs. Donald PiferMr. and Mrs. Thomas J. PinessMr. Joseph F. Pirola Jr.Ms. Ashleigh Place and Ms. Dawn HollingsworthMr. and Mrs. Craig PlummerMr. and Mrs. Frederick PohlMr. and Mrs. John W. PoppMr. and Mrs. Jamie Porth

Mr. William A. Potts and Ms. Elizabeth McCormickMr. Floyd PowellMichael E. Powell and Christopher H. CormierMargaret Powell-Holton and Lynn TateDr. Prakash Prabhu and Ms. Sangeeta ShenoyMs. Margaret C. PrenticeMs. Annie May PrevatteMr. and Mrs. Ronnie PriceMr. and Mrs. Neal PruterMr. and Mrs. Gordon S. QueryMr. Alton Rabon and Ms. Kimberly PurvisMr. and Mrs. R. L. RamageCol. and Mrs. J. S. RamboMrs. RamseyMr. and Mrs. Cravens RavenelMr. and Mrs. John C. RawlMr. Walter RawlMr. and Mrs. William S. RawsonMr. Lynn ReeceMr. and Mrs. Gene ReederMr. Dennis ReederPeggy ReelMr. and Mrs. J. Douglas ReidMr. and Mrs. Darren RembertMs. Jennifer RenoSusan RenoMike ReynoldsMr. and Mrs. Reggie RicardMr. and Mrs. Jay D. Rickman Sr.Ed and Anne RikardMs. Louise B. RiversMr. and Mrs. Michael RiversMs. Allen J. RivkinMr. and Mrs. Byron P. RobertsMr. and Mrs. Jim RobeyMr. and Mrs. Joseph RobinsonMr. and Mrs. Raymond L. RobinsonMrs. Susan RobinsonDr. and Mrs. Rich RogersMr. and Mrs. Bill RogersDr. Lannie C. Rogerson and Percy E. RogersonDonna and Curt RoneForest Evans Jr., MD and Jennifer Root, MDKevin RoseV. L. RoseboroughMrs. Patricia RoskillMr. Foster M. Routh IIIMr. and Mrs. George W. RoutonEli Rozier Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Hyman S. Rubin IIIDr. Chad RubinRoger and Delores RuckerMs. Barbara Koosa RyanMs. Cathy SabolMr. and Mrs. Tracy SagelyMr. and Mrs. Bruce SahlmanMr. and Mrs. Robert G. SakaraCol. and Mrs. Frank SarnowskiPavel Sasek and Pavlina ZeleznaMr. Frank SauroMr. and Mrs. Stephen T. SavitzStacy and Skip SawyerMr. and Mrs. Terry K. Schmoyer Jr.Ms. Diane SchraderMs. Mary Beth SchultzMeyer SchwartzMrs. Linda G. ScottMr. and Mrs. Al ScrogginsMiss Claudia SeegerMr. and Mrs. Errol SeegersJeff H. SeligMr. and Mrs. Buster SennMr. and Mrs. Stuart SenterMs. Mary Jane ShandMrs. Julie D. SharpeMr. and Mrs. Henry Shaw Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Karl ShealyMr. and Mrs. James M. ShealyMr. and Mrs. Jay ShelleyMargaret SheridanMr. Brandon Shives

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Mrs. Linda C. ShoemakerAndrea ShullMr. and Mrs. William M. ShumakerMr. H. Perry ShupingMr. and Mrs. Thomas SiegnerMs. Eula Sightler and Ms. Yvonne SightlerMrs. Jerri SimpkinsMr. and Mrs. John SimpsonMr. James SimsMr. and Mrs. Charles J. SiniardMr. and Mrs. Buddy F. SkinnerCarl SloanMr. Henry SloanMr. and Mrs. Luther SmithDr. and Mrs. Claude W. SmithLt. and Mrs. Wayne C. Smith Jr.Mr. and Mrs. John SmithMr. and Mrs. James E. SmithCdr. and Mrs. E. T. SmithMr. and Mrs. Michael S. SmithMs. Anne S. SmithRoy and Rebecca SmithMr. and Mrs. Roger V. SmithMr. Thomas E. SmithPeter and Kathleen SmithMr. and Mrs. Richard SmootMr. and Mrs. John M. SmyreMrs. Betty SmyrlMr. and Mrs. Don SnipesMr. and Mrs. Karl SnyderSangeeta SohoniMr. and Mrs. Gene SorrelMr. and Mrs. Wayne SpauldingMrs. Gail J. SpiresMr. and Mrs. Steve SprattMr. and Mrs. Richard J. StachelekMiss Gretchen StahlMr. and Mrs. Carl E. StahlMr. and Mrs. Glenn StalionsMr. and Mrs. Robert StammMr. and Mrs. Mike StampsDr. and Mrs. Jimmy StandsMr. and Mrs. Chip Stanley Jr.Ms. Daun C. Steigner and Ms. Gabrielle HalfacreDr. and Mrs. Philip SteudeMr. and Mrs. Emile StevensMr. and Mrs. Cecil Stevens Jr.Dr. and Mrs. Thomas C. Stewart Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Johnny StewartMr. and Mrs. Bill StokesMr. M. Bert StoreyMr. Steve Storick and Ms. Mary Audrey AckermanStacy and Mandy StricklandMs. Katharine StruthersMr. Alton SturkieW. F. Sullivan and B. J. JonesMr. and Mrs. Robert SurfaceCatherine SwainMs. Rebecca G. SwansonMr. and Mrs. Ron Swinson Jr.Mr. and Mrs. David SwygertMr. Motte TalleyKathi TangneyMr. and Mrs. Jack TaylorMr. and Mrs. Richard S. TaylorMr. Stephaney TaylorDr. and Mrs. Edmund R. TaylorMr. and Mrs. James R. TaylorMr. and Mrs. Don TerrellMs. Annemarie TheilenPat ThomasMs. Stephanie ThompsonMr. and Mrs. David W. ThompsonSharon ThompsonMr. and Mrs. Bud M. TibshranyCatherine and Robert TimmesMr. and Mrs. Joe TindalMr. and Mrs. John TobiasMr. and Mrs. Paul TrefzMr. and Mrs. Rembert TruesdaleBik Yuk Tsang

Mr. and Mrs. Bob TunellMs. Michele TynesMr. Jose G. ValdiviesoMr. and Mrs. Ernest Van HornMr. and Mrs. Wilson VanDamMs. Shelly VargoDr. and Mrs. Hal VarnMr. and Mrs. Donald D. VaughnCol. Donne D. ViauMr. and Mrs. Vince VismaraMs. Margaret A. VitielloMs. Sandra VoelkerChristie VondrakMr. and Mrs. Sammy WadeMr. and Mrs. Felix D. WalkerMr. and Mrs. Claude M. WalkerAshley and Nicole WalkerMr. and Mrs. Romley WallaceMr. and Mrs. John WalshMr. and Mrs. Glen B. WardMr. and Mrs. J. C. WardMs. Jan WarnerDr. and Mrs. Carey A. WashingtonLeslie S. Watson and Laura W. DyessMs. Katherine L. Watson and Mr. Henry B. KempMr. Jes WatsonWilliam WattMr. and Mrs. Joseph H. WeaverMs. Wanda Webb and Ms. Lisa BellMr. and Mrs. Greg WeightDr. and Mrs. Tristan K. WeinkleMr. and Mrs. Stephen WelchRene WellsMr. and Mrs. Bob WellsMr. and Mrs. Jerry F. Wells Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Eric J. WestMs. Kaymani D. West and Ms. Bianca WestMr. and Mrs. Ken WheatMr. and Mrs. Jack Wheeler Jr.Mr. and Mrs. James C. WhitakerMs. Helen B. WhitakerMr. and Mrs. Bill WhiteMr. Gordon WhiteMr. and Mrs. Gordon WhiteMr. and Mrs. Robin WhiteMrs. Leslie WilcherMr. and Mrs. Robert P. WilkinsMr. Steve WilliamsMr. and Mrs. Doug WilliamsMr. and Mrs. Roger I. WilliamsMr. and Mrs. Brett WilliamsMr. and Mrs. Chris E. WilliamsMr. and Mrs. Mitchel WilliamsMr. and Mrs. Brett WilliamsonMr. and Mrs. Marsh WillisMr. and Mrs. Jeremy WilsonMr. and Mrs. John N. WilsonMr. and Mrs. William WindhamDr. Charles WirsingMs. Alyson WissingerMr. and Mrs. Darren WooMrs. Sarah Ann WoodinBetsy WoodwardMr. and Mrs. Michael WyattMs. Cathy YeadonMr. and Mrs. Anthony R. YoungMr. and Mrs. Robert YoungMrs. Leah YoungbloodMr. and Mrs. James D. ZakianAnny and David ZalesneDr. and Mrs. Peter Zvejnieks

Company DonorsAbacus Planning Group IncAllegra Print & ImagingAlsco, Inc.American FloralAnnah’s Hands Massage TherapyAnsaldo STS USA, Inc.Art & Iron

Ashewood Development, IncAssociation of Zoos & AquariumsAT&TBabcock CenterBank of AmericaBella Vista BridalBituminous Insurance CompaniesBlueflourBlythewood Garden ClubBurkett, Burkett & Burkett CPA, PACaterpillar Inc. FoundationCentral Carolina Community FoundationColonial LifeContract Construction, Inc.Cyberwoven, LLCDelirium Tribal Belly Dance CompanyDonovan StudiosFire Department Logistic Training CenterFirst Citizens BankFriends of the Lexington County LibraryThe Garden Club of South Carolina, IncGordon IncorporatedGourmet 2 Go CateringHanson Brick & TileImaging TechnologiesJeffrey Sanders Concrete FinishingJoe Sharpe’s Service StationJones School Supply CompanyLaser Print PlusLittle Lizzie of SaratogaLMC Extended Care Rehab DeptLugoff Garden ClubM.L. Irrigation SystemsMBP Class of 2007-2008Microsoft CorporationMidlands Chapter Professional Land SurveyorsMiles River DirectMungo HomesMyers Timber CoNana by SallyNexsen Pruet LLCPalmetto Citizens Federal Credit UnionPalmetto Garden ClubPfizer FoundationPope-Brown FoundationPrecision WallsPremier Clowns UnlimitedProfessional PrintersRobinson, McFadden & Moore, P.C.Ruby Queens Red Hat LadiesSensational Suds of the SouthSeven Oaks Elementary SchoolShady CharactersSign It QuickSouthern Anesthesia & Surgical, Inc.Sports TrophiesSquare D Company/Schneider ElectricSunbelt RentalsSuper SodTrashformationsVista SpecialtiesWachovia FoundationWal-MartWoodley’s Garden CenterYMCA

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By Ed Diebold, Director of Animal Collections & Conservation

Perhaps no other animal management program endorsed by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) better embodiesthe effective marriage of captive population management and conservation of a species in the wild than the Golden-lion Tamarin Species Survival Plan. Golden-lion tamarins (GLTs) are bright golden, squirrel-sized monkeys that once occupied all lowland Atlantic forests in the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro. Unfortunately, since this region of Brazil was the first to be colonized and has grown into the agricultural, industrial and population center of the country, development and defores-tation has left just 7% of the original forest remaining, and only in small, isolated areas. This drastic reduction has led the Brazilian Atlantic Forest to be named one of the world’s most endangered biodiversity hotspots. And it is in these forestfragments that the remaining wild populations of GLTs persist. THE “MANE” PROJECT In the 1960s, Brazilian biologists realized that only a few hundred GLTs remained in the wild. The world zoo commu-nity responded to their appeal for help by establishing and maintaining a thriving captive population of GLTs. More than three decades of intensive effort—involving research, captive breeding by zoos, population monitoring, habitat restoration, community involvement, ecotourism, watershed management, zoning and land use, reserve management and public/private conservation partnerships—has returned the species from the verge of extinction. A key development in the recovery of the GLT was the creation of an effective Brazilian conservation organization (Associação Mico Leão Dourado; AMLD). The AMLD has done an outstanding job of achieving its conservation goals. Thanks to a successful reintroduction program—led by the international zoo community —and the creation of privately owned protected habitat, the number of GLTs in the wild has increased to about 1,600 and protected habitat has increased by 140%. As a result of this conservation success, in 2003 the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red Data Book changed the status of GLTs from “critically endangered” to “endangered.” This is the only case of a conservation upgrade for a primate species.

CONNECTING THE HOTSPOTS Through a series of international Population and Habitat Viability Analyses (PHVAs), a clear and attainable conservation goal for the species has been developed. Specifically, it has been determined that, to ensure the survival of the GLT, there must be 2,000 GLTs living freely in a landscape of 25,000 hectares (one hectare is equal to 2.471 acres) of connected and protected Atlantic forest habitat by the year 2025. The AMLD continues to strive to reach this goal; however, much work remains to ensure the GLT’s long-term survival. Most importantly, the amount of suitable habitat must be increased and the frag-mented patches of forest habitat must be reconnected in order to minimize the species’ likelihood of extinction. Funding provided by the Riverbanks Conservation Support Fund has supported the AMLD’s ongoing field conservation efforts for GLTs. These efforts include: species conservation master planning; monitoring GLT populations; managing GLTs in the wild; habitat monitoring and management; community liaison and community relations to support and sustain strate-gic actions; cultivating and promoting local, regional, national and international partnerships and policy framework; and maintaining the administrative capacity to implement these activities. Because of the hard work and enduring presence of the AMLD and its many partners, it is our hope that the golden-lion tamarin will be preserved for future generations to enjoy. Riverbanks is proud to support this outstanding work.

Reference - “Conservation of Golden Lion Tamarins in Brazil—In Perpetuity.” Grant application for Riverbanks Zoo and Garden’s Conservation Support Fund submitted by Denise Rambaldi of the Associação Mico Leão Dourado, Brazil.

Top photo:Golden-lion tamarin in BrazilBottom photo:Working to ensure a suitable habitat for the survival of GLT’sBoth photographs courtesy of Luciano Candisani

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