Summary of Get to Know Our Latest Quarters for Conservation Projects!:
Brevard Zoo‘s Quarters for Conservation program supports various conservation organizations. The organizations chosen focus on wildlife and people thriving in line with the Zoo’s mission. Previously, they supported ICAS – Wild Animal Conservation Institute, International Rhino Foundation, and the Sumatran Ranger Project. Currently, they are supporting Planeta Oceano and A Rocha. Planeta Oceano protects endangered giant manta rays in Peru by involving local communities in marine research and education. A Rocha focuses on protecting sharks, rays, and guitarfish from overfishing in Kenya by working with local fisherman groups. These organizations receive funding from ticket sales and membership purchases, with visitors also having the opportunity to vote for extra funding for one of the highlighted organizations. Brevard Zoo is an independent, not-for-profit organization that relies on community support to continue its conservation programs.
Summary:
1. Brevard Zoo’s Quarters for Conservation program supports various conservation organizations.
2. Planeta Oceano focuses on protecting endangered giant manta rays in Peru.
3. A Rocha works to protect sharks, rays, and guitarfish from overfishing in Kenya.
4. Visitors can vote for one of the featured organizations to receive additional funding.
5. Brevard Zoo relies on the community’s support to continue its programs.
Welcome to Brevard Zoo, where your visit can make a difference in the lives of animals and people worldwide! Our Quarters for Conservation program ensures that a portion of your ticket purchase and membership fee supports various conservation organizations. Let’s explore two of our latest projects in more detail: Planeta Oceano and A Rocha.
Planeta Oceano is dedicated to protecting northern Peru’s endangered giant manta rays. These magnificent creatures face multiple threats, including bycatch and habitat degradation. Planeta Oceano works to increase its involvement in marine research, education, and environmental leadership in collaboration with local coastal communities. Doing so, they aim to reduce manta ray bycatch and revive community-based ecotourism.
Did you know that manta rays can reach sizes of up to 29 feet in wingspan? These gentle giants rely on specialized gills to filter plankton and small fish from the water as they glide effortlessly through the ocean. Unfortunately, illegal fishing practices and habitat destruction have put them at risk in recent years. Planeta Oceano’s efforts protect these incredible animals and empower local communities to become stewards of their marine environment.
Our second featured organization, A Rocha, focuses on safeguarding sharks, rays, and guitarfish from overfishing in Kenya. By partnering with eight local fisherman groups, they provide important information and training on data collection of the target species. In addition, A Rocha advocates for better legislative protection to ensure the long-term survival of these marine creatures.
Sharks, rays, and guitarfish have swam in our oceans for millions of years. They play vital roles in marine ecosystems by regulating populations of other marine species. Additionally, they are incredibly diverse, with some species sporting intricate patterns and unique adaptations to thrive in their respective habitats. Protecting these magnificent creatures preserves their beauty and maintains the balance of our marine ecosystems.
By supporting Planeta Oceano and A Rocha through our Quarters for Conservation program, you contribute to their remarkable conservation efforts. Both organizations will receive $12,000 each to further sustain and expand their critical programs. But here’s where you can make an even bigger impact – vote! Until December 2023, you can vote for one of these organizations to receive extra funding. Visit our new station near the gift shop at the front of the Zoo and choose the organization that resonates with you the most.
ATheanimals are at the heart of everything we do. At Brevard Zoo, We believe that conservation is a collective responsibility, and we rely on the generous support of our community to continue our vital wellness, education, and conservation programs. Your visit to our Zoo offers you the chance to connect with wildlife and grants you the power to make a difference. Together, we can protect and preserve our planet’s incredible biodiversity for future generations to cherish.
Thank you for joining us on this journey and supporting the incredible work of Planeta Oceano, A Rocha, and all the other organizations we partner with. Let’s work together to create a world where wildlife and people thrive harmoniously.