2015/16
Annual Report: Introduction
In our last annual report, we announced the opening of our Brazilian ocelot exhibit. We are happy to report that our pair of
ocelots proved to be wonderfully compatible and the result was the successful birth of a male cub participating in the species
survival plan (SSP) for Brazilian ocelots. We continued the planning and fundraising phases for our next major exhibit development
for the renovation of Amazon’s Edge for South American giant river otters.
As described above with the ocelots, the Zoo’s conservation efforts continue with successful breeding of the giant anteater and
several species of primates including tamarins and marmosets, black and white colobus monkey, and silver langur monkey.
As the need arises, we will continue our international conservation work like we have done in the past with animals such as
golden lion tamarins and golden-headed tamarins, black-handed spider monkeys, and giant African millipedes.
The Friends of Santa Ana Zoo (FOSAZ) has been instrumental in advancing several key elements in the Santa Ana Zoo’s
strategic plan related to fundraising, master planning, deferred maintenance, exhibit repairs and remodeling. Most notable of
the exhibit repairs and remodeling was replacing roof thatching on several exhibits and updating the water circulation and
filtering systems for the Colors of the Amazon Aviary. FOSAZ also provides operational funds supporting the Zoo’s education,
maintenance, and veterinary staff.
FOSAZ revealed plans for the Zoo to add a “Fifty Monkey” Ferris Wheel. The 64-foot Wheel will be installed near the entrance
to the Crean Family Farm, placing a signature stamp onto this family favorite area. Families will learn about the history of Prentice
Park and the request to house 50 monkeys at all times while traveling through the queue line. Nestled between the Zoofari Express
Train and the Conservation Carrousel, the Wheel will become the perfect finishing touch for the Zoo to present a total of three
child-friendly attractions that can be shared and enjoyed by guests of all ages in 2017.
The staff and board members of FOSAZ are extremely grateful for the continued support of all our Members, Volunteers, and Zoo
Visitors who validate our commitment to advancing our goals of conservation, education, and family recreation. We hope after a
visit to the Santa Ana Zoo you come away with a little more awareness and appreciation of the natural world and what must be
done to preserve it for the generations to come. Treat this earth like it is the only one we have; come to think of it, it is the only
one we have!
Ron Glazier
Cathi Decker
Santa Ana Zoo Director, Retired
FOSAZ Executive Director
FOSAZ Advisory Board Member
Cover photo by Ethan Fisher (2015/2016 Annual Report includes data through December 31, 2016)
New to the Zoo
The Santa Ana Zoo is known for its vast array of primates, and last year did not disappoint as a banner year for the monkeys. From
howler monkeys to smaller tamarins, there were nearly a dozen primates born! One great aspect of being an accredited member of
the Association of Zoos and Aquariums is our strong focus on conservation and education. All the monkeys born at the Zoo are part
of cooperative conservation programs with our AZA partners throughout the United States and abroad. Our conservation programs
are not unique to monkeys though; a new program the Zoo joined last year was SAFE, Saving Animals From Extinction.
AZA designated ten animals as the first SAFE species to focus on, and one of them is our local turtle, the Western pond turtle. The
Zoo was already involved in research on this species through a partnership with the United States Geological Survey, but now we
are getting even more involved and have added this species to the pond in the Colors of the Amazon Aviary. The new Western
pond turtles are a little more elusive than the turtle species that previously lived in the aviary, but forthcoming interpretive displays
will teach about the life story of our native turtle and provide actionable information on how people can make a difference.
Another huge success for the Santa Ana Zoo was the birth of a Brazilian ocelot kitten on December 3, 2015. His birth comes less
than a year after the exhibit opened and was the first ocelot born in the Zoo’s history. Small wildcats like ocelots are increasingly
threatened throughout their natural ranges due to habitat loss and degradation. Our baby ocelot’s birth marks the third success
of a program using biotechnology to help endangered and threatened species. In an effort to boost the genetic diversity of the
Brazilian ocelots, the Cincinnati Zoo’s Center for Conservation & Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW) utilized artificial
insemination (AI) techniques to facilitate the birth of three ocelots. All three of the ocelots resulting from the AI program have gone
on to birth their own offspring through natural breeding, including ours here at the Santa Ana Zoo. The objective is to only use
AI when necessary to produce offspring that can breed on their own, and it is another valuable tool in the conservation toolbox.
Besides the first birth of an ocelot at the Zoo, on October 2, 2015, slowly, slowly a sloth came into the world. The birth of a
two-toed sloth is the first birth of this species at the Zoo. Two-toed sloths are native to the tropical forests of Central and South
America where they live high up in the treetops, rarely climbing down to the ground. Sloths typically have a single offspring
which rides on the mother’s abdomen, “right-side up” depending on how you look at things.
We are pleased to have been able to expand our collection both from within and without. We look forward to bringing even
more fascinating animals and experiences for guests to the Santa Ana Zoo in 2017!
Santa Ana Zoo
Animal Collection
The heart of the Santa Ana Zoo is our wonderful animal collection. The main reason people visit our Zoo is to see the animals.
Many of our visitors form special connections to our animals and come again and again to see their favorite friends. To maintain
an interesting and compelling collection requires a team of animal care professionals who work tirelessly to provide our animals
and guests a special experience.
There are many functions and disciplines focused around the collection. The most obvious focus is on the basic daily care of
the animals, which involves: cleaning of exhibits, feeding animals, operant conditioning and training for efficient and effective
animal management, and enrichment of animal environments to stimulate natural behaviors. Veterinary care is provided by a
team of veterinarians with exotic animal experience who work with our staff and utilize a network of veterinary specialists and
technicians to ensure that our animals are healthy and thriving.
Other disciplines involve design and construction of exhibits to provide the essential requirements of the animal’s natural
environment and at the same time present animals to the zoo visitor in a naturalistic setting. Signs and interactive graphics are
used to educate and enlighten the public about the amazing diversity, natural history, conservation efforts, and behaviors of the
animals in the collection.
The acquisition of animals for the collection is a story in itself. The Animal Curator and Animal Registrar are the two individuals
most directly responsible for acquiring animals for the Zoo. There are several ways we acquire our animals. The most common is
from other Association of Zoo and Aquariums (AZA) accredited zoos either by donation, purchase, trade, or loans. Most of the
Zoo’s animals have been donated by other zoos. Because of our AZA accreditation, the Fish and Wildlife Service of the United
States Department of Interior and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife facilitate the permit
process required when acquiring animals. Without AZA accreditation, the permit process
would be much more complicated and expensive.
The Santa Ana Zoo works cooperatively with other zoos to maintain our extensive primate
collection. This involves transferring or trading our animals with ones from other zoos
to maintain the genetic diversity of the captive
populations. With all the transfers and births
we strive to remain well over the 50 monkeys
required in the Zoo’s grant deed. This past year
we had important and notable births of some
rare and endangered monkeys. Because we are
so successful with some of our primates, we’re
able to send animals to other zoos. One very
special transfer was sending a pair of golden lion
tamarins, one black-handed spider monkey, and
20 giant African millipedes to the Wellington Zoo
in New Zealand. After a year of careful planning
by zoo staff, several animals made the 6,700
mile journey, and became a great boost to the
international conservation efforts for these species.
The animal collection is reviewed periodically
with respect to advancing the Zoo’s mission,
conservation and education purposes and
appeal to the Zoo visitor. However, the utmost
consideration is given to ensure that we are
providing the best care for the physical and
psychological well-being of the animals entrusted
to our care.
The Santa Ana Zoo
is one of only
193 such zoos
accredited by
the AZA.
Zoo Educational Programs
School Visitors: Local area schools visit the Zoo on a regular
basis for tours, workshops, labs and special programs.
Approximately 13,000 school children ranging in ages from
preschool to college visit the Zoo each year, a percentage of
which are designated Title 1, low income and underprivileged.
Visits to schools made by the “Zoomobile” contact an additional
3,000 children annually.
Zoo Visitors: Weekend Zoo visitors receive animal presentations
in our Conservation Education Theater. “Critters for Conservation”
brings animals up close and personal to over 250,000 Zoo
guests annually who participate in these fun and educational
presentations.
Sheepshearing: With springtime in the air, a weekend day was
chosen for the Zoo’s sheep to be shorn, providing an up-close
view of this family farm activity Sheepshearing continues to be a
popular event with shearing, weaving, and crafts.
National Chemistry Week – Chemistry Day at the Zoo:
An October Sunday brings this award-winning event to the
Exploration Outpost with various interactive chemistry displays
for the public along with a special chemistry show. Over 140
volunteers from local colleges help with this day.
Party for the Planet: A spring Sunday brings fun and education to
the Zoo when we celebrate our own Earth Day. Special displays
manned by volunteers and students from Santa Ana College focus
on recycling, composting, reusable products, and conserving
natural resources.
Volunteers: Many opportunities exist for volunteers to serve as
docents for teaching and conducting guided tours to school
groups, sharing fun animal facts to our family visitors on the
weekends, interacting with Zoo visitors in the Crean Family Farm
goat yard, helping with our mechanical milking cow or doing farm
crafts, acting as engineers for the Zoofari Express Train, as well as
helping with various special events throughout the year. All these
opportunities enhance the Zoo visitors’ experience. Over 400
volunteers serve the Zoo annually.
Scout Programs: The Scout Patch program combines a variety
of nature topics (e.g. animal classification, endangered species,
predator/prey relationships) with an animal presentation and
scavenger hunt. Grade level activity pages assist the scouts in
fulfilling the requirements for various Girl Scout (Daisy, Brownie
and Junior) and Cub Scout (Tiger Cub, Wolf, Bear and Webelos)
badges. Over 1000 people attend these programs during each
traditional school year.
Zoo Summer Camp: In conjunction with the Discovery Cube
Orange County, week-long day camps provide hands-on
experiences for children. The Zoo and You (ages 5 – 6 years) and
the Zoo Camp program (ages 7 – 10 years) provide memorable
experiences for over 150 students during the summer sessions.
Professional Development: The Santa Ana Zoo is now the
Southern California headquarters for Project WILD (Wildlife
in Learning Design), an internationally recognized curriculum
supplement to help teachers connect their students to wildlife both
inside and outside the classroom. Since joining Project WILD in
November, 2014, over 35 facilitators and 200 educators (formal
and informal) have been trained in these activities. Zoo staff have
also contributed to the curriculum revision and standards alignment
for the Project WILD K-12 Guide.
Community Outreach: Staff and volunteers reach out to the
community with their presence and exhibits at school fairs,
libraries, civic groups, and special events. They “bring the Zoo”
to those who find it difficult to visit it in person.
Partnerships: With education in mind, the Zoo partners with
multiple organizations including local Eagle Scouts, teacher
trainings with Science Education students from California State
College Long Beach, offering scholarships for programs and
Zoo admission to low income schools, and attending local
schools for career days. The Zoo is also part of the California
Regional Environmental Education Community (CREEC) Network
and partners with a variety of local environmental organizations
for events such as Chemistry Day and Party for the Planet.
People at the Santa Ana Zoo
City of Santa Ana
ZOO STAFF
Kent Yamaguchi, Zoo Manager
Ray Cosper, Zoo Curator
Ethan Fisher, Zoo Registrar
Lauren Bergh, Education Specialist
Jenny Walker, Lead Zoo Keeper
CITY HALL
Gerardo Mouet, Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Suzi Furjanic, Public Works
Friends of Santa Ana Zoo
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
ADVISORY BOARD
David Exline, President
Peggy Baldwin-Butler
Lori Babcock, Vice President
Cody Boebel
John Harper, Treasurer
Crean Family
Armando Armenta, Secretary
Michael Darany
Roseanne Bye
Kathleen Edman
Edward Carroll
Dr. Judy Fluor-Runels, PsyD
Maureen Cronin
Ron & Joyce Glazier
Curtis Farrell
Allen & Jennifer Goh
Howard Hall
Jay & Paige Kunkle
Michele Levison
Tom & Debbie Newmeyer
Patricia McClendon
Bill & Donel Wiles
Meredith McCombs
Patti Mickey
Jane Olin
FOSAZ STAFF
Jon “Rip” Ribble
Cathi Decker, Executive Director
Marie Rourke
Vanessa Anderson, Office Manager & Finance Assistant
Kristeen Stolo
Kevin Jackson, Director of Operations
Dee Thomas
Tom Decker, Director of Technology & Communications
Estela Codiz, Membership & Rentals Manager
Paris Devantier,, Volunteer & Event Assistant
“2016 Year in Review”
Corporate Corner
SANTA ANA ZOO DONORS/SPONSORS:
Otter Habitat at Amazon’s Edge:
McBeth Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. Allan F. Rosevear
U.S. Bank Foundation
Allergan Foundation
Boeing Employees Community Fund
Kevin Jackson
Michele Levison
Howard and Karin Hall
Mr. John Harper and Mrs. Judi Curtin
FOSAZ Endowment:
Mrs. Mary H. Fuzy
Ms. Rose MacNeil
Children’s Zoo:
Crean Family Foundation
Train 1036 Club:
Gayle A. Creasman
Wentzscope and Barn Storage:
Norris Foundation
Animal Sponsorship:
Mrs. Kai Kanatsiz
Synthetic Thatched Roofing:
Pacific Life Foundation
Zoo Improvements:
Mr. James MacPherson
Mr. & Mrs. Greg Hexberg
Disneyland
Mr. Bob Tobey
REI Shade Systems
Fifty Monkey Ferris Wheel:
Mr. and Mrs. James Howe
Conservation Carrousel:
Paula Golden
Mr. James MacPherson
Mr. James Sommerville
Tom & Debbie Newmeyer
Mr. & Mrs. Clark Valentine
Mr. Gordon Y. Shigezawa
Cathi & Barry Hofstetter
Mrs. Sheila Schlee
Sue McDonald
Ms. Cathi Decker
Ms. Maureen Cronin
Year End Appeal:
Charlotte Shamlin & Jill Jeffries
Mr. & Mrs. Dale Bischof
Mr. & Mrs. James K. Reynolds
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Dantas
Mr. & Mrs. Larry Karlin
Mr. & Mrs. Tom Lutz
Mr. & Mrs. Tom Post
Mr. Allen Doby
Mr. Richard Zook
Ms. Marilyn Armentrout
Mr. & Mrs. Stephen C. Jones
Mr. & Mrs. Steve Colburn
Mr. & Mrs. Jerry A. Aspland
Mr. Larry Lerno & Ms. Lisa Long
Mr. Richard V. Evans & Diana L. Janzen
Mrs. Alys B. Sullivan
Ms. Gayle A Luciano
Ms. Sarah L. Daniel
Mr. & Mrs. Mel L. Howard
Mr. & Mrs. Steven Sarandis
Mr. & Mrs. Max Herink
ZOOFARI UNDERWRITERS:
Pygmy Marmoset
• Tom & Debbie Newmeyer
Crested Capuchin
• Del & Carole Stagg
Black & White Colobus Monkey
• Peggy Baldwin Butler of The
Tudor House Dinner Theatre
Squirrel Monkey
• Advanced Cleanroom
Microclean
• The Edie Israel Team Coldwell Banker
Wermers
Properties
•
Emperor Tamarin
• Louis & Lori Knappenberger
• Knowlwood Enterprises
• Tim & Lin McCool
• Donna Miller
• Denice & Brian Mock
Silver Langur
• Gary & Milli Andreini
• Donald & Angela Carson
• Dougherty Family
• Joann Driggers
Top Donors
• Howard & Karin Hall,
Green & Hall
• Harrison Family
White-faced Saki Monkey
• Pamela Dittman
• Bob & Mary Exline
• John & Sharon Biard
• “In Honor of our
1st Grand-daughter,
Julia Morgan Bybee”
• Shari Ciko
• Bill & Gladys Heck
• Steve & Dannielle Schmidt
• Ollie Louise Whitaker
DONOR LEVEL MEMBERSHIP
SAZOO’s Club
Member Since
Ms. Peggy Baldwin-Butler ............... 2/28/2005
Dr. Judy Fluor Runels & Dick Runels .... 1/31/2004
Dr. & Mrs. Del Stagg...................... 5/31/1995
Mr. & Mrs. Ray Wirta ...................... 7/4/2013
Director’s Club
Member Since
Mr. & Mrs. Armando Armenta .......... 2/28/1997
Mr. Cody Boebel .......................... 1/22/2014
Mrs. Roseanne Bye ...................... 10/31/1995
Ms. Maureen Cronin ..................... 1/20/2009
Mr. David Exline & Mr. Amos Bracero . 4/4/2009
Mr. & Mrs. Curtis S. Farrell ............ 12/31/1994
Mr. & Mrs. Howard D. Hall .......... 11/30/1994
Mr. John Harper & Mrs. Judi Curtin ... 1/31/1999
Ms. Michele Levison ...................... 7/12/2015
Ms. Patricia McClendon ................. 2/23/2006
Karen & Rip Ribble ........................ 1/30/2006
Marie & Wes Rourke ..................... 2/11/2013
Ms. Patricia L. Mickey .................... 3/21/2008
Ms. Jane M. Olin &
Mr. Timothy J. Jerkovich ................... 7/31/2005
Mrs. Kristeen Stolo ......................... 6/27/2009
Curator Club
Member Since
Mr. & Mrs. Donald L. Abrams .......... 8/23/2010
Dr. C. Carroll Adams & Mr. Ed Hogg.. 8/8/2015
Mr. & Mrs. Jerry A. Aspland .......... 10/31/1995
Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Barlet .............. 10/31/1995
Jia Jie Giao & Hsih Ju Chen ............... 7/2/2016
Mr. & Mrs. Charles Glatstein ........... 7/27/2010
Mr. & Mrs. Jack Gutman ............... 10/25/2014
Mr. Detlef Herrman & Mrs. Cecy Wieting ............
9/30/2001
Cathi & Barry Hofstetter .................. 8/17/2006
Mrs. Jan Homan & Mrs. Karen Audibert...............
4/30/1997
Mr. & Mrs. Michael Macres ............ 1/31/1997
Mr. Michael A. McLean.................. 7/31/2001
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Plunkett ............... 3/31/1998
Mrs. Almaas Shaikh ..................... 12/30/2013
Christine Smith & Henry Smith .......... 2/24/2006
We regret if any of our patrons were excluded from these listings.
If you feel there is any error in recognition, please contact the FOSAZ office at 714-953-8555 x10.
2016 Fiscal Finances
of FOSAZ
IMPROVEMENTS
$
$501,524
$301,4
58
$757,620
$2198,53
0
0
00
5,
$40
3,4
$76,313
$1
1
RESTRICTED/UNRESTRICTED FUNDS FOR
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
}
Cash Balance YE 2016
OC Foundation $576,940
Restricted $383,087
Unrestricted $828,258
Total $1,788,285
52
UNRESTRICTED DONATIONS/ZOO CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
RESTRICTED REVENUE FOR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
RESTRICTED GRANTS
CAPITAL ZOO IMPROVEMENTS UNRESTRICTED
ZOO IMPROVEMENTS RESTRICTED
NET $94,777 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
OPERATING EXPENSE
$25,081
$3
04
,
$
31
5,1
35
4
,47
6
2
$2
8
7
,
78
1
00
43,6
5
$
3
05
$1,088,279
8,751
$14
21
GIFT SHOP • TRAIN • CARROUSEL
MEMBERSHIP • RENTALS • CONCESSION • OTHER
$4
8,
8
$7
2
8,93
$10
OPERATING REVENUE
$12,67
046
7
$1,
G&A • MARKETING
OPERATING EXPENSES • PROGRAM EXPENSES
NET $251,376 OPERATIONS
NET $144,245 FUNDRAISING EVENTS
NET $39,542 DIVIDEND INCOME
Footnote:
Unrestricted/Restricted/Grants for Cap. Improvements (Short term < 12 months and Long Term 1 to 3 years to raise donations and grants deposited into restricted account)
*Funds for each C/I are not released until total funds in deposit are sufficient to complete at 100% of cost with a 10% cash reserve
*Long Term projects may take from 6 to 12 months for completion
Train & Carrousel Rides
Our rides at the Santa Ana Zoo provide both an enjoyable experience for children and adults alike, and also an educational
backbone for those wishing to explore the Zoo further on foot.
The Zoofari Express Train Ride at the Santa Ana Zoo, traveling around the Crean Family Farm and into the northern end of the
Zoo, allows for a behind-the-scenes view of the farm area and Tierra de las Pampas. The trains are electric and environmentally
friendly, and our volunteer and paid drivers provide conservation-friendly messages, information about the animals, Zoo news
and updates, along with a bit of humor. They bring enjoyment to all the guests who ride.
The Conservation Carrousel featuring Endangered Species is a 36-foot carrousel with a wide variety of wild creatures in
addition to the more traditional horse, one of which is a design made originally for our Zoo: The Giant Anteater! Also included
is a swan chariot, designed to be ADA compliant for guests with mobility issues, as well as a spinning nest where the children
can control how fast they spin. All riders receive an educational animal card as they exit the Carrousel. Each card contains
conservation facts about a wild animal.
Ride tickets were kept at $3 per person ages two and up, with plans to increase the Train tickets to $4 in 2015. We also
offer a “Combo Ticket” at $5 so that riders can go on both the train and the carrousel, while saving a little money at the same
time! Likewise, the Zoo-Member-Only “Frequent Rider Pass” is a popular offer, allowing Members to ride both the train and
carrousel with 11 total rides for only $20 (10 rides plus one free one after those rides are all used up). These prices may also
be increased slightly in 2015 to cover increased costs.
gifts
The Zoo has witnessed a steady increase in revenue from both rides since the carrousel first arrived, increasing 26% from 2010 to
2014. Ride synergy shows that a third ride could increase revenue even further, and more research into this possibility continues.
Treetop Toys Gift Shop
The Zoo’s main gift shop, Treetop Toys, offers guests the opportunity to take a piece
of their Zoo experience home with them. Open every day the Zoo is open, Treetop
Toys offers a wide variety of zoo-related merchandise – especially fun and educational
toys and gifts for children. An ever-expanding line of custom merchandise, such as our
mascot SAZOO featured in a soft and cuddly plush, makes our Treetop Toys a unique
shopping experience. New merchandise is added regularly to increase interest. Sales
from the gift shop in 2015 brought a net income of $48,019.
We collect $1 from generous patrons as they check out from their purchases for “Dollar
for a Hollar” that is donated to conservation, a fund that the Zoo keepers help designate
to a worthy conservation cause.
Special Events
The Santa Ana Zoo hosts some of the most popular events for families in Orange County! They are
integral to the community and provide an affordable, fun, and educational time at the Zoo. Children
of all ages and guests come from all over to enjoy these special days. SAZOO, our monkey mascot,
participates in all of our events and at many local parades. During each special event, the Gift Shop,
Train, and Carrousel experience an increase in the income.
The Zoo Birthday is celebrated with exhibits of miniature trains, provided through our partnership
with Del Oro Pacific Railroad Club, entertainment, crafts, treats and animals! It is free for Members
and included with the price of admission for the general public. The Zoo Birthday is an affordable
event for families to come and enjoy at the Zoo. Attendance has increased 20%.
Sunsets at the Zoo, our Summer Concert series, continue to grow in popularity. During these summer
evenings, families and friends bring picnics and enjoy live music, train and carrousel rides, and
animal interactions. Attendance increased again with our newly added fourth event and beer tasting
as part of ‘Brew at the Zoo,’ for a $10 donation to the Zoo from each participant.
The extremely popular Boo at the Zoo is our annual Halloween family festival with trick-or-treating,
costumes, lights and decorations, nocturnal animal presentations, and train and carrousel rides.
Over 5,000 guests each year visit Boo, many for their first time experience at the Zoo. We generate
increased publicity and meet a public need for a fun, educational, and safe Halloween.
Zoofari is our annual black-tie fundraising gala dinner/dance in August where we raise money for
Zoo improvements. During the past two years we have raised over $150,000 for the Ocelot Exhibit,
the monkeys, and additional Zoo improvements.
The Friends of Santa Ana Zoo partner with CHOC and Make-A-Wish once a year for a very special
evening known as “Dreamnight at the Zoo.” Children living with life-threatening conditions are invited
to a private evening at the Zoo where they can meet the animals up-close and personal and enjoy
entertainment, dinner, and train rides for the family all at no cost. This is our chance to share our Zoo
with these other special non-profit groups.
Friends of Santa Ana Zoo Memberships
The Friends of Santa Ana Zoo Membership Program offers an opportunity for participants to visit the
Zoo throughout the year at no additional cost. Members’ benefits also include being able to visit over
150 other zoos at no charge or for reduced fees, experiencing discounts at the Treetop Toys Gift Shop
and the Snack Bar, receiving the Animal Tales newsletter, and acquiring discounts at special events.
The year 2015 saw household memberships reach a high of 6,054, generating a gross income
of $412,486 for the membership program, representing an 9% increase over the previous three
years’ average.
An aquatic-themed Membership Appreciation Day was scheduled in February to generate increased
membership sales and provide for a fun day at the Zoo for the FOSAZ Member families. Zoo
members also received discounts for party rentals, and a record number of Members took advantage
of these discounts, boosting our rental area income to an all-time high. The Zoo Membership
Ambassador program, staff whose sole job is to greet all Zoo visitors and sell memberships to them,
challenges itself to break yearly, monthly, and daily membership sales records and takes pride when
accomplishing its monthly goals.
The Santa Ana Zoo is committed to the CONSERVATION of the earth we share with other animals through
cooperative breeding programs with other AZA accredited zoos, support of local conservation research projects,
and the daily use of sustainability practices. All the animals at the Zoo serve as ambassadors of their relatives in
the wild. They inspire us to be connected with the natural world and to take steps on behalf of wildlife everywhere.
Saving Animals From Extinction
One of the key purposes of the modern zoo is to save animals from extinction. The Santa Ana Zoo is a leader in the captive
breeding of endangered primates. Through cooperative breeding programs with other AZA accredited zoos, the Zoo is helping
to create sustainable captive populations of these quickly disappearing animals.
The Species Survival Plan (SSP) program is an important tool zoos use to help manage the populations of threatened and endangered
animals. These comprehensive plans make sure zoos are able to maintain genetic diversity of the species, coordinate scientific
research in the field and at zoos, and work with local conservations organizations to conserve the animals’ natural habitats.
The Santa Ana Zoo is currently involved in 27 SSPs which include: Black-and-White Ruffed Lemur,
Ring-tailed Lemur, Pygmy Marmoset, Cotton-top Tamarin, Bearded Emperor Tamarin, Golden Lion Tamarin,
Golden-headed Lion Tamarin, Squirrel Monkey, White-faced Saki Monkey, Spider Monkey, Southern
Black Howler Monkey, Crested Capuchin, Guereza Colobus Monkey, Silvered Leaf Langur, White-handed
Gibbon, Ocelot, Binturong, Giant Anteater, Three-banded Armadillo, Two-toed Sloth, Crested Porcupine,
Greater Rhea, Trumpeter Hornbill, Sunbittern, Spectacled Owl, and Prehensile-tailed Porcupine.
Rare Breed Domestic Animal Program
The domestic livestock found in the Crean Family Farm represents breeds that are in danger of disappearing forever. Through
breeding programs and public education, the Zoo is working to preserve these historic breeds and maintain genetic diversity. Rare
breeds currently residing at the Zoo include: San Clemente Goat, Navajo-Churro Sheep, American Jacob Sheep, Guinea Hog,
Dexter Cattle, Exmoor Pony, Slate Turkey, Bourbon Red Turkey, American Buff Goose, Houdan Chicken, and Crevecoeur Chicken.
United States Geological Survey’s Western Ecological Research Center
The Zoo’s new partnership with one of the region’s leading conservation research centers, the USGS’s Western Ecological
Research Center (WERC), allows the Zoo to vastly expand its participation in local and global conservation programs. WERC
is the field research branch of the U.S. Department of Interior. The research station is located on the Zoo’s grounds and their staff
shares the use of our pathology laboratory and teaching/meeting rooms. Through this partnership, the Zoo will be working with
two local endangered species, the Pacific Pond Turtle and the Mountain Yellow-Legged Frog. Several of the Zoo staff have also
helped with local studies assessing the health of the animal’s native habitats.
Sustainability Practices
Conservation Education
The Zoo is working to incorporate “Green” practices into its
daily operations in order to promote conservation as a lifestyle
while protecting natural resources. This approach involves four
main objectives: 1) reducing the resources used, 2) recycling
when feasible, 3) using recycled products when possible and
4) promoting a sustainable lifestyle. Some examples of the
practices the Zoo is currently using include:
Teaching conservation principles is at the heart of all of the
Zoo’s education programs. We are striving to assist visitors
to develop local, national, and global views of conservation
and to inspire them to take action. Current conservation
education efforts include:
• Designing and planting landscapes to minimize water use.
Minimizing turf areas.
• Using only organic fertilizers.
• Composting all vegetative materials and mulching for
water retention and weed control.
• Installing waterless urinals and sensor-operated faucets
and toilets which minimize water consumption.
• Using hand dryers to reduce paper waste.
• Conducting energy audits and retrofitting 90% of lighting
to low energy LED and fluorescent bulbs.
• Covering the overflow parking lot with ground roadway
waste (old asphalt roads) to eliminate particulate air
pollution (dust) and rainwater runoff.
• Incorporating environmentally friendly and sustainable
building materials and products.
• Continuing our on-site recycling programs for batteries,
cell phones, ink cartridges, six-pack rings, office paper,
and packing popcorn.
• Utilizing recycled materials for crafts and lessons in our
education programs.
• Developing strong conservation action messages for
all of the public animal presentations presented in the
Conservation Education Theater.
• Designing new signs to showcase the Zoo’s conservation
efforts.
• Incorporating into all of our education programs the
AZA Conservation Messages developed by the AZA
Conservation Education Committee.
• Utilizing the California Environmental Principles and
Concepts, the foundation for the California State
mandated Model Curriculum for environmental education
in the development of all school-based curricula.
What FOSAZ Means
to the Santa Ana Zoo
TOTAL Dollar Value donated from FOSAZ to the Santa Ana Zoo in 2015 = $1,631,340
The Friends of Santa Ana Zoo (FOSAZ) helps take the Santa Ana Zoo to an elite status among the nation’s zoos. Through
direct funding and volunteer hours, FOSAZ is a critical presence for animal acquisitions and care, animal habitats, public
education, marketing and communications, conservation, train and carrousel rides, staff enrichments and additions, specific
maintenance projects, and special events.
This breakdown of the $1,631,340 dollar value of FOSAZ’s contribution to the Santa Ana Zoo in 2015 shows its distribution:
Money Raised for the Santa Ana Zoo through Operations: ....................................................$297,697
Money Raised for the Santa Ana Zoo through Fundraising:....................................................$95,443
Money Raised for the Santa Ana Zoo through Grants: ...........................................................$131,400
TOTAL Dollars given to the Santa Ana Zoo ...........................................................................$524,540.
VOLUNTEERS:
Events – 735 hours at $10 each .........................................................................................$7,350 value
Train – 650 hours at $12 each ...........................................................................................$7,800 value
Board – Finance, Zoo Improvements, Education, Entertainment,
plus other contributing hours – 31,190 hours at $35 each ........................................$1,091,650 value
TOTAL Volunteer Dollar Value given to the Santa Ana Zoo .....................................................$1,106,800.
TOTAL Dollar Value donated to the Santa Ana Zoo in 2015 ..........................$1,631,340
Zoo visitors observe and experience the many contributions
from FOSAZ whenever they come to spend time in this very
special place.
pair of breeding ocelots was introduced into their new home and
apparently adjusted rather quickly to each other and their new
surroundings as a baby was born at the end of the year.
Within the exhibits they see our new animals: a spectacled owl,
an armadillo, a prehensile-tailed porcupine, Western pond turtles,
ocelots, and rare-breed sheep and pigs. In 2015, the Santa
Ana Zoo expanded its animal collection with the births of our
fourth giant anteater, our first sloth, and our first ocelot, a black
and white colobus, and howler monkeys. The Exploration Outpost
now houses our boa constrictors, tarantulas, and frogs as well as
new plants, signage, and a terrarium. Educational upgrades and
enhancements are continually being added to the Outpost. The
Tree Tops exhibit and Colors of the Amazon Aviary re-opened with
a flourish after being closed for refurbishments.
Zoo employees received a variety of special attentions and
assistance for their projects from FOSAZ, which pays for a portion
of the veterinarian salary. Many animal enrichments have been
purchased with the generous donations to FOSAZ.
Other exhibits and Zoo areas have been upgraded and
repaired. The Jack Lynch Aviary underwent some changes to
allow more sunlight for the lemurs and for better viewing by
guests. Western pond turtles were recently released into the
Colors Aviary and are getting used to their new home. Our
newest animal on display is a very cute (but not cuddly) treeloving rodent, the prehensile tailed porcupine. New drinking
fountains have been added, and new thatching is being placed
over several of the buildings and exhibit locations.
In March of 2015, the long-awaited Ocelot Exhibit and Education
Center was completed and celebrated with a grand opening. A
Educational programs and support from FOSAZ include paying for
the Zoo’s Education Specialist, sponsoring the Party for the Planet
event, collecting money for conservation from its Dollar for a Holler
program, and paying for Zoomobiles to visit underserved schools.
FOSAZ supports the Federal Empowerment Zone with school
field trips. Additionally, FOSAZ helps pay for classroom materials
for school groups and tours. FOSAZ grants paid for new tables
and chairs for the Barn Classroom and lighting and sound for the
Conservation Education Theater. FOSAZ also pays for the AZA
(Association of Zoos and Aquariums) conferences and training for
our Education Specialist and other Zoo personnel.
FOSAZ publications and marketing include three issues annually
of the Animal Tales Newsletter, e-blasts for immediate publicity, an
enhanced Zoo Website, and constant updates and promotions on
Facebook, Twitter, and BlogSpot.
Contributions from FOSAZ help to enhance the Santa Ana Zoo
to be more interesting and meaningful to its visitors and keep it
relevant and exhilarating in today’s changing world.
Pathways
to the Future
As mentioned in the Introduction, our next great focus is raising funds to renovate Amazon’s
Edge into an exhibit for the South American giant otters. Amazon’s Edge was the first exhibit
built as specified by the Zoo’s original master plan adopted by the City of Santa Ana
in 1990. Amazon’s Edge opened in 1992 attracting some 8,000 people that day,
which, incidentally, is a record daily attendance that still stands. In all fairness, we
should point out that attendance was free to the public that day; nevertheless, it
was an outstanding day. The new exhibit will be the focal point of a new Zoo
master plan that will be developed in the coming months. The master plan
will incorporate advances in exhibit design to immerse the Zoo visitor in
the otters’ native habitat and best highlight their natural attributes. They
are superb swimmers, so the exhibit will feature an underwater viewing
window where the Zoo visitors can see and appreciate how well-adapted they
are to their river habitat in South America. This will be the most significant
exhibit undertaking in the Zoo’s history, both in terms of the complexity of the
design and the cost. The new master plan will also provide an exhibit for
the howler monkeys that are currently displayed in Amazon’s Edge.
What this project also signifies is the growth of the Friends of the Santa
Ana Zoo (FOSAZ) in its ability to support the development of the Santa
Ana Zoo, one of Orange County’s principal venues for economical
family recreation, especially for those families with young children.
FOSAZ will also be building a Ferris wheel that will complement the
Conservation Carousel and Zoofari Express Train. While providing fun,
these rides incorporate education and conservation themes. They are also
a source of operating income that further helps the development of the Zoo
and support maintenance and education programs.
The future portends greater accomplishments for FOSAZ and the Santa Ana Zoo.
Once known as a small local zoo with some monkeys, it is now being recognized in
the zoo community as one of the premier small zoos in the country. The Zoo may be
small in acreage, but it is gaining in its reputation for accomplishing good work
in animal conservation, particularly with monkeys and other small primates
such as lemurs, tamarins, and marmosets. FOSAZ is also being recognized
as an innovative support organization for city-owned and operated zoos,
and their ability to work cooperatively with city staff and government to
provide an outstanding zoological garden for their community.
In the end though, we will only succeed with the continued support of
our community, members of FOSAZ, and businesses and foundations,
all of whom have so generously responded to our requests for
assistance. The new master plan will provide the blueprint for a zoo
that even in his wildest dreams was never envisioned by the Zoo’s
founder, Joseph E. Prentice, when he donated the original 12 acres of
property way back in 1949. We have come a long way since the Zoo
opened in 1952, but the best is yet to come!
santa ana zoo
1801 E. Chestnut Ave. • Santa Ana, CA 92701
www.santaanazoo.org