Events at the Zoo! - Archive

Sunday, July 7 (Noon – 3pm)

The Dirt on Dirt

What is dirt? What lives in the dirt? What eats it? Get the scoop on the world under your feet. Dirt or soil consists of a mixture of weathered rock, finely ground into powder, minerals, and a variety of living and dead lifeforms. This nutrient rich layer extends downward about as deep as plant roots extend. Soil contains all the nutrients needed by plants to survive. An important part of soil is the part that is alive. Many different bacteria, algae and fungi do important jobs that make life possible. Without these basic lifeforms performing these important roles, more complex lifeforms could not survive. Make dirt work for you, too, with take-home plantings. 

Saturday, July 13 (Noon – 3pm)

Gyotaku

Artist/instructor, Joseph Mullins, began making impressions from fish he caught, following the traditional method of Japanese fish printing. Freshly caught specimens will be used to discuss the types of fish that can be found in local waters. Every participant experiences a hands-on gyotaku session. The rubbings are made on a quality mulberry paper and can be mounted on board or plexi glass that makes a beautiful translucent image. Or … bring a clean T-Shirt with you and design your own fashion. These rubbings can also be used in collages. Learn about print making, while also addressing sustainability issues.

Saturday, July 20 & Sunday, July 21 (Noon – 3pm)

TALONS     

Lorrie Schumacher is a Master Falconer who has created a uniquely innovative and inspiring Bird Of Prey Experience. Lorrie's mission is to stress the importance of the role of raptors in the global environment and man's responsibility to the balance of the planet. This unique opportunity presents these fascinating birds up close in an exciting and educational exhibit. Lorrie will demonstrate what she believes: One look into the ancient eyes of a raptor, and a human truly knows humility.  It's an experience of a lifetime!

Saturday, July 27 (Noon – 3pm)

Animal Photography

A workshop presented by John Ares, well-travelled professional photographer. Trained as a Biologist / Marine Food Toxicologist, Staten Islander John Ares is a uniquely versatile photographer: Underwater, Nature, Travel, Lifestyle and Fine Art. Many animal subjects will be discussed including birds, bees and bears. Animal behavior will be discussed and basic animal photography techniques that apply no matter your equipment.  We will also focus on likely places to find animal subjects starting at home with your pets, the backyard and expand to Zoos, the Park, Wilderness Expeditions and a brief overview of Underwater Photography.  An opportunity for live photography will be provided.

Sunday, August 4 (Noon – 3pm)

Dinosaurs and Fossils

Dinosaur enthusiasts, Harry Strano and Richie Mirissis -- using fossil evidence -- will take you back several million years when dinosaurs roamed the earth.  Fossil digs and rubbings as well as a display of authentic relics will be available.  Speak to the experts about the fossil rich history in our area. Did you know that a crab fossil deting back 65 million years was found on Staten Island and named kleinfelderi after Walter Kleinfelder, the Curtis High School student who found it? 

Sunday, August 11 (Noon – 3pm)

Origami USA

Origami is the traditional Japanese art of paper folding, which has evolved into a modern art form. The goal of this art is to transform a flat sheet of paper into a finished sculpture through folding and sculpting techniques. OrigamiUSA is the largest origami organization in the US and is located at the American Museum of Natural History.  Participants will be led through the process that will create different origami animals simply by skillfully folding.  Each person can make 2-3 animals each.