Behind-the-Scenes at Zoo Atlanta

ATLANTA – June 9, 2008 – Zoo Atlanta envisions a world in which humankind values, protects and preserves the diversity of species on Earth. On June 12, curators will present unforgettable reasons for making that world a reality in the compelling second installment of the Conservation Lecture Series.

Dr. Joseph Mendelson, Curator of Herpetology, has discovered new animal species and witnessed the disappearance of others. Mendelson has observed first hand the domino effects of amphibian extinction – the global crisis that has moved organizations all over the world to unite in dedicating 2008 as The Year of the Frog. Through an in-depth look at the fight to save critically endangered amphibians, beaded lizards and turtles, Mendelson will present alarming realities and triumphant messages of hope that define 21st century conservation.

Mendelson has devoted over 20 years to the study and classification of amphibians and reptiles in Mexico, Guatemala, Panama, Ecuador and Peru, and is responsible for the discovery of some 35 new amphibian species. His research, particularly his work on amphibian decline, has captured national and international attention. Dr. Mendelson earned his PhD from the University of Kansas and serves as an Adjunct Associate Professor of Biology at Utah State University.

Lisa Smith, Curator of Large Mammals, will present the rarely-seen world of the truly “behind-the-scenes,” offering compelling insights into the challenges, innovations and surprises of day-to-day animal care at Zoo Atlanta. Smith’s discussion of behavioral husbandry, environmental enrichment and positive reinforcement training will shed new light on why bare necessities like food, water and shelter mark just the beginning of quality animal care.

Smith, who has over 13 years working with terrestrial and marine wildlife, supervises Zoo Atlanta’s collections of elephants, giraffe, rhinos, zebra, warthogs, waterbuck, gazelle, bongo and duikers, in addition to overseeing the care of Outback Station kangaroos, wallabies and petting zoo animals. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Akron and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree from George Mason University.

Laura Mayo, Assistant Curator of Primates, will introduce a clear call to action for orangutans – great apes that may face extinction within the next decade without focused conservation efforts. Guests will leave Mayo’s insightful, heartwarming and often mind-boggling look at the daily lives of Zoo Atlanta’s orangutans newly committed to preserving their counterparts in the wild.

Mayo supervises Zoo Atlanta’s primate collection, which includes orangutans, gorillas and lemurs. Her 25 years of experience working with great apes includes care of orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees and bonobos. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from the University of Georgia.

Presentations will begin at 7 p.m. in the Coca-Cola World Studio of Zoo Atlanta’s Conservation Action Resource Center (ARC); doors open at 6:30 p.m. The Conservation Lecture Series is free for Serengeti Members and above; $5 for all other Zoo Members; $7 for non-Members. Reservations are required. Please make your reservation by visiting zooatlanta.org/conservation_lecture_series.htm or calling 404.624.WILD.

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