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June 16, 2011
Capuchin Monkeys Get Spicy The capuchin monkeys watch carefully as zoo keeper Angie Brown sprinkles paprika on a log. If you visited the zoo last week, you might have wondered if the zoo had a new species of orange-colored monkeys on Monkey Island.  But they're the same monkeys we've always had - they just took a spice bath! Last week, zoo keeper Angie Brown sprinkled paprika on the logs on Monkey Island, and within seconds monkeys Dizzy and Wilson were rolling in the orange powder.  It soon covered their hands, feet, backs, and heads. "Paprika is one of their favorites," Brown says.  "I don't know exactly why, but they love it." Spices are one of the many items zoo keepers use enrich the monkeys' environment.  By introducing novel foods, scents, or objects, the monkeys stay engaged and active. Once Dizzy and Wilson had their fill of paprika, the two began to carefully groom each other - a natural behavior that enhances the monkeys' social bond. Dizzy and Wilson rub their heads on the paprika-covered log.   The monkeys engage in a grooming session after they've covered themselves in paprika.   Zoo Closes Early Friday June 17 The zoo will close at 4:00 p.m. and the Australian Adventure will close at 12:00 noon as we prepare for Zoobilee, our annual gala fundraiser, on Friday, June 17. Last year's event raised more than $133,000!  Funds were used to provide free admission to disadvantaged children and families, deliver education programs to the community, and feed zoo animals.  Many thanks to our generous donors and sponsors for their support of Zoobilee. For more information on Zoobilee 2011, click here.  Preview this year's exciting auction items here.   Don't Miss... Wild Wednesdays - open late every Wednesday thru July 27 for Members Only!  Last admission is at 7:00 p.m.; rides and buildings close at 7:30 p.m.; grounds close at 8:00 p.m. Sponsored by the Fort Wayne Komets   Creature Features - Keeper Chats, Feeding Demonstrations, and more!  Click here for a schedule or pick one up at the ticket booths. Sponsored by PNC	Coming Up Jun. 13 - Aug. 5 Summer Safari Day Camp June 17 Zoobilee June 22 Wild Wednesday MEMBERS ONLY June 24 Iron Zoo Chef sponsored by Dairy Queen June 29 Wild Wednesday MEMBERS ONLY Click for event details and mark your calendar! Hours The zoo is open every day, including holidays 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. until October 9, 2011. Admission Prices $13.00 for adults $8.50 for children age 2-14 $10.50 for seniors age 60 and over Babies age one and under and Zoo Society Members are admitted free. Helpful Links Renew Your Zoo Membership Renew for 2 years and save $10! Adopt-an-Animal The perfect gift for Mom, Dad, or anyone! Make a Donation You too can make a difference at the Zoo by making a donation. Member Change of Address Have you moved?  Update your membership information to continue receiving our mailings.

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