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Calendar: Great Ape Awareness Days

At the San Diego Zoo

November 13–16, 2008

Gorillas, chimpanzees, bonobos, and orangutans are on the brink of extinction. Researchers estimate some species may be decimated within a decade if trends of rampant poaching and deforestation continue. The San Diego Zoo is working to raise public awareness about the animals’ plight for survival during Great Ape Awareness Days.

Each day, the Zoo’s three great ape species—gorillas, bonobos, and orangutans—are spotlighted with animal enrichment sessions at each habitat followed by presentations about issues affecting great apes, such as the bushmeat crisis and habitat loss due to illegal logging, slash-and-burn farming practices, and the removal of rain forests for palm oil plantations in Indonesia.

Daily Keeper Talks
Bonobos	10 a.m. and noon
Orangutans	11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
Gorillas	10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Special graphic panels at each great ape enclosure feature photos and information about conservation efforts and ways people can help. You may learn how cellular phone manufacturing has contributed to widespread demise of gorillas in Central Africa, and how simply recycling old cellular phones can make a difference. Responsible consumerism of sustainable wood products and food, soaps, and cosmetics containing palm oil are addressed as well.

Special speaker

Longtime orangutan researcher Biruté Galdikas will give a fascinating presentation about her experiences in Borneo called “Orangutan Conservation: What makes them so special and why should we save them?” As founder of Orangutan Foundation International, Dr. Galdikas is an expert on these remarkable red apes and the challenges they face in their natural habitat. She will be available after the talk to sign books available for sale that evening.

Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2008
Where: Otto Center Auditorium at the San Diego Zoo
Time: 7 to 8 p.m., with light refreshments served from 8 to 8:45 p.m.
Cost: $17 for members, $20 for nonmembers

This event is open to members and nonmembers, ages 12 and up (children 12 to 17 must be accompanied by a paid adult). Reserve your place at this memorable presentation by calling 619-557-3963.

Online auction

Do your bidding! Our online auction will have unique ape-themed items up for grabs, including paintings by San Diego Zoo bonobos, handcrafted African sculptures of gorillas, and special behind-the-scenes tours. More information will be posted soon.