Summary of Saving a species extinct in the wild. Meet our “excellent” Socorro doves, Bill and Ted!
The article discusses the arrival of two Socorro doves, Bill and Ted, at Woodland Park Zoo. It explains that the species is extinct in the wild and that conservation efforts are being made to save them. The article also mentions possibly reintroducing the species back to their native island. The author expresses her excitement at participating in the conservation efforts and encourages visitors to see the birds at the zoo.
Summary:
– The Socorro doves, Bill and Ted, are extinct in the wild and now reside at Woodland Park Zoo.
– The doves’ native habitat faced threats from introduced sheep and domestic cats, leading to their extinction in the wild.
– Conservation efforts, including breeding programs managed by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, aim to save the species and possibly reintroduce them to their native island
Hello there, fellow animal enthusiasts! Today, I want to share the heartwarming story of Bill and Ted, our delightful Socorro doves at Woodland Park Zoo. These two special birds have had quite a journey, and their presence here is a testament to the dedication and passion of conservationists and animal lovers worldwide.
Meet Bill and Ted
If you’ve had the pleasure of strolling through the dome in the Tropical Rainforest building at our zoo, you may have encountered the charming coos and fluttering wings of Bill and Ted, our beloved Socorro doves. These two feathered friends arrived at Woodland Park Zoo from the San Diego Zoo a few months ago, bringing their unique personalities and endearing behaviors.
As an animal keeper, it’s been a joy to witness Bill and Ted settle into their new home. From the verdant trees to the railings of the dome’s walkway, they’ve made themselves right at home, charming guests and keepers alike. If you want to catch a glimpse of them, the best times are during their meal times in the morning and afternoon. These delightful doves have quite the appetite, enjoying a delectable mixture of fruit salad, pellets, greens, and seeds.
The Plight of the Socorro Doves
What sets Bill and Ted apart is their incredible rarity—they are extinct in the wild. Once native to the Mexican island of Socorro off Mexico’s west coast, these doves faced a harrowing threat to their existence due to human intervention. The island, once a haven for these beautiful birds, became a battleground as development and the unwitting introduction of sheep and domestic cats posed a grave danger to the indigenous wildlife.
The upheaval caused by the introduction of sheep and domestic cats tipped the balance for the Socorro doves, pushing them to extinction. However, the story doesn’t end there. Conservationists recognized the situation’s urgency and intervened, bringing the surviving doves into human care to safeguard their future.
The Road to Conservation
Now, you might be wondering, how do we ensure the survival of a species that no longer exists in the wild? The answer lies in the incredible efforts of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), which oversees a breeding program dedicated to conserving the Socorro doves. Currently, there are only 156 of these doves left in the world, making every one of them a precious treasure and a symbol of hope for the future.
Here at Woodland Park Zoo, we take immense pride in participating in this vital conservation mission. Our bbirdkeeperteam is committed to providing the best care for Bill and Ted, and we eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome female doves to expand our conservation efforts. We hope these doves will play a role in a reintroduction program that could see them return to their native island, provided the threat of sheep and cats can be addressed, and the habitat can be restored.
Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure
In a nod to the remarkable journey of these two doves, we’ve aptly named them Bill and Ted. Their names not only pay homage to the cult classic movie characters but also reflect their gentle, amiable nature. Much like their namesakes, Bill and Ted have a penchant for making music through their coos and chirps, and their rarity makes them true treasures.
As an animal keeper, I’ve developed a deep fondness for Bill and Ted, and I’m certain any of you will, too. Their presence here at the zoo is a testament to the resilience of wildlife and the unwavering commitment of conservationists to safeguard the natural world.
Final Thoughts
I hope that sharing the story of Bill and Ted has inspired you to appreciate the remarkable efforts being made to save endangered species. Every individual, whether human or animal, has a role in the intricate web of life on our planet. By standing together and supporting conservation initiatives, we can ensure that future generations will have the privilege of experiencing the beauty and wonder of our natural world.
So, the next time you visit Woodland Park Zoo, be by the dome in the Tropical Rainforest building and say hello to Bill and Ted. Their story is a testament to hope, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of life. Together, let’s continue to preserve and protect the incredible diversity of wildlife that graces our planet.
