Zoo InternQuest is a career exploration program for high school students. For more information see the Zoo InternQuest Journals. For more photos see the Zoo InternQuest Photo Journal.

The beginning of something usually gives you an idea of what’s to come. Since our very first InternQuest experience was an exclusive tour of the Zoo, I am confident that I am going to have a great time. Our guide was Educator Guide Rachelle Marcon, and boy does she know her stuff!

Ms. Marcon introduced us to interesting places all over the Zoo, and even took us behind the scenes at the koala, camel, and giraffe enclosures. What really stuck with me was how the movies we watch as kids can affect the future of plants and animals. Giraffes (pictured) are a great example of this. All of us can think of at least one movie where we saw a giraffe. Because of this, guests like to put money in giraffe-shaped donation boxes or pay to feed these amazing ungulates. Giraffes generate a lot of money for conservation, but as a species, they may not need all of it. Giraffes are therefore what’s known as an “umbrella species.” Extra money generated in support for giraffes can be used for the protection of plants and animals that may not be so well known, but live in the same area as giraffes.

Another animal that is gaining recognition because of movies is the fossa. These small, predatory mammals from Madagascar may not rake in as many donations as giraffes or elephants, but may do so in the future if people continue to recognize them. Unfortunately, it is more difficult for plants to get needed recognition.

The Zoo’s plant collection is extremely valuable, considered by many to be more valuable than the Zoo’s animal residents. However, very few plants are well recognized because, let’s face it, people like cute fuzzy animals better. But one tree in the Hawaiian plant garden deserves some recognition, considering its importance in Hawaiian music and culture. Some people may recognize koa wood from a certain movie about surfing penguins, but it’s not just good for an awesome surfboard. Koa wood is what ukuleles are traditionally made of because of its resonant quality. Unfortunately for those who love nothing more than an authentic ukulele, this tree and many other Hawaiian plants and animals are threatened by invasive species, disease, development, and pollution.

So next time you visit the Zoo, check out some of these cool plants and animals along with your favorites. Also, feel free to watch your favorite movies. You never know how they can help plants and animals around the world.

Madolyn, Real World Team

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