Volunteer Updates & Opportunities
2026 Coexistence Webinar Series IS HERE!!!
This webinar series is a chance for Zoo staff and volunteers to learn the conservation stories of our partners that we support with your help. Join us to hear about them, ask some questions, and potentially find new ways to offer support. We hope that you can share what you learn with our visitors and help us grow the good work happening around the world. Access through the link in MyImpact!
Topics include:
Fundacion Tonkawa – Carla Ximena Neri Barrios
- Wednesday, January 7, 2026
- Title: “How restoring lobos is transforming the economy of ranchers”
Wildlands Network – Carlos Castillo & Juan Carlos Bravo
- Thursday, January 15, 2026
- Wildlands Network’s mission is to reconnect, restore, and rewild North America so that life – in all its diversity – can thrive. By setting their sights on projects across Canada, the United States, and Mexico, the team at Wildlands Network protects core native wildlife, their habitat areas and the corridors that connect them. The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden partnered with Wildlands Network in 2025 over their work with Thick-Billed Parrots via the AZA SAFE program. As factors like logging, agriculture, and the pet trade have endangered this species, wildfires that were once essential in maintaining the health of thriving ecosystems now threaten these charismatic birds. Wildlands Network has partnered with the local communities of Tutuaca and Conoachi in Chihuahua, Mexico to shift away from logging, monitor & manage forest ecosystems, and reduce devastating wildfires through fire brigades.
Western Terai Fishing Cats – Ganesh Puri
- Tuesday, January 27, 2026 11am – 12pm
- Title: “Transforming Fishing Cat and Fish Farmer Conflict into Community-Led Conservation”
Eastern Ghats Wildlife Society – Murthy Kantimahanti
- Tuesday, February 3, 2026 8:30am – 9:30am
- Title: “Guardians of the King: A Journey of Coexistence in the Eastern Ghats of South India”
Madagasikara Voakajy (MV) – ~6 members of the team will present!
- *Wednesday, February 11, 2026 10am – 11am
- Title: “Is There a Magic Formula to Align Conservation and Biodiversity Coexistence? From Madagascar…”
Bahamians, Birds, & Botany – Dr. T’Noya Thompson
- *Thursday, February 26, 2026 12pm – 1pm
*Signifies that we are in the middle of confirming the date
HOPE YOU WILL JOIN US TO LEARN MORE!
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Annual Compliance Trainings are Due!
If you are volunteering in an animal area, it is time for our yearly compliance trainings. Be on the lookout in your inbox for an e-mail about the compliance trainings. All trainings will be in the Better Impact system. These will need to be completed by the end of February to be compliant.
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Annual Clothes/Uniform Thrift Shop Coming March 13!
The Zoo’s Pop-Up Thrift Shop is back for year 4! (Clothes COLLECTION will BEGIN February 9th – See Below For Drop Off Details.)
Save the date! On March 13th from 10am to 3pm in Frisch’s Theater, our annual free clothing swap will feature exciting new options for you all. In addition to our usual thrift swap, we will also have…
- Zoo Uniform Collection – Bring your unusable uniforms to be recycled through Sew Valley. Click this link Zero Waste — Sew Valley to learn more about how your old uniforms will be given a new life!
- Zoo Uniform Swap – Bring your gently used uniforms to exchange with your coworkers and grab some new-to-you items for your uniform wardrobe!
- Mending Education Station – Learn how to extend the life of your clothes and take home some educational resources to jump start your mending journey!
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5 Week Virtual Series of Landscaping Lectures with Steve Foltz Coming Soon (Feb/Mar)!
Join our 5-week virtual series of lectures regarding all aspects of landscaping for the homeowner by one of the region’s top horticulturists and the zoo’s Director of Horticulture, Steve Foltz.
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Bee School 2026 – Meet Bowyer-Farm-Partner Beekeepers
LOCATION:
Armco Park
Jones Pavilion
1223 North State Route 741
Lebanon, Ohio 45036
Bee School will be taking place on January 24, 2026, from 8:30 am to approximately 4:00 PM.
Registration is $30 for an individual and $15 for additional family members.
REGISTRATION now OPEN! Follow this link!
Zoo Updates
MEET DAVE!
The Enquirer is identifying the most important people to watch in 2026 in Greater Cincinnati. TO VIEW THE ARTICLE ON OUR VERY OWN DAVE JENIKE, PLEASE CLICK HERE!
Meet Dave Jenike, 62, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s new CEO. He officially took over the role as zoo director on Jan. 1.
“To be transitioning into the role of zoo director is a true honor of my lifetime and I’ve been fortunate to be here and working side-by-side with my friend and boss, Thane Maynard,” he said.
Jenike, who took over as chief operating officer in 2007, has been fascinated with nature, especially the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, since he was a child.
“(I) ended up getting a master’s degree in environmental science from Miami University and as I was finishing that up, got an internship at the Cincinnati Zoo (and) it turned into a job in 1990 in the education department and I’ve been here ever since,” he said.
What Jenike hopes for in 2026
Jenike said the zoo is currently working on a Mexican wolf habitat and more expansions are on the way.
“We do have the opportunity to continue to renovate and build the zoo,” he said. “The North American habitats just opened with our black bears and sea otters, so it will be really exciting for people to see those during the course of the next year.”
“We will be continuing to build out an exhibit we’re calling ‘Giraffe Tower,’ which will move our giraffe herd from their exhibit up to the old elephant house so that they will greet visitors as they enter the zoo,” he said, adding that it will take a couple of years to finalize the design and construction.
Jenike said the expansion will allow the zoo to grow its giraffe herd.
“In general, what I’m most excited about is continuing to connect with people to nature, to wildlife, to inspire curiosity, to create these experiences that get shared and become part of someone’s family experiences.”
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Hang Out with THANE, FIONA, & RICO!
A $9 gift gives you a digital Rico boop print and one entry to win the grand prize, a $40 gift also gets you the digital Rico boop print and gives you 9 entries to win.
The Ultimate Zoo Getaway Grand prize winner receives:
- A Behind the Scenes tour for 4 people with our very own Thane Maynard to meet Fiona the hippo, Rico the porcupine and a surprise animal! (date must be mutually agreed upon)
- $1,000 in flight vouchers from Frontier airlines
- Two-night hotel stay at the Summit Hotel – the Zoo’s Official Hotel
Purchase through January 31, 2026 to be entered to win.
Funds raised help to provide food, toys, and fun enrichment for Zoo animals, so giving multiple gifts benefits the animals and increases your chances of meeting them! Enter as many times as you like, now through Jan. 31st. Winner will be contacted by February 7, 2026.
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NEW Galentine’s Brunch at Elephant Trek! Feb. 14, 11am-1pm
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WORLD ATLAS: 8 Best Attractions To Visit In Ohio – WE MADE THE LIST!
“From stunning outdoor environments and animal habitats to iconic educational and entertainment sites, Ohio provides numerous opportunities to learn, explore, and be inspired.” CLICK HERE to read the entire article
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Dr. Max Winkeljohn Continues With CREW
Dr. Max Winkeljohn will be continuing his work in the CREW Plant Research Division as our new Post-Doctoral Researcher! He will be managing, maintaining, and further developing our research for our entire collection of rare and endangered plant species as well as taking on grant writing! Congrats, Max! 🌱
Plant & Animal Updates
Status of the Re-introduction – Sihek Species
In 2024, CZBG’s Bird Department played an instrumental role in the Sihek Recovery Project, a ground-breaking translocation initiative that would introduce 9 young Guam kingfishers – also known as sihek – into the wild…for the first time in over 40 years! Team Bird was happy to represent our Zoo in this project, introducing 3 sihek from Cincinnati Zoo to Palmyra Atoll, a small tract of land south of the Hawaiian Islands with no permanent human population. Here’s an update!
Hinanao and Tutuhan had a nest destroyed by storms recently but both birds escaped unharmed and have already been observed excavating new cavities.
Mames and Långet’s nest tree was spared. The pair continues to incubate their two eggs.
Both Yayas and Guifi are now flying free in superb condition without transmitters and will hopefully continue their attempts to produce their first clutch of eggs.
Sindålu and Fuetsa were seen around their newest cavity but have yet to show indication that eggs will be laid anytime soon.
Ha’åni was not seen this week.
This project acknowledges the hard work of many partners including Guam Department of
Agriculture, Association of Zoos & Aquariums, The Nature Conservancy, US Fish & Wildlife Service,
and Zoological Society of London.
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A Fun Wings of Wonder ReCap **Think Warm Thoughts**
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From Conservation to Community: Meet Cincinnati Zoo’s New Director
Get to know the new Zoo Director, Dave Jenike! Jenike has been integral to the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s success in the three decades that he has been part of its history. He is known for his love of wildlife, commitment to education and dedication to working with communities to achieve wildlife conservation goals through co-existence.
He has developed innovative programs to connect families and communities with wildlife. His focus on visitor experience has helped transform the Zoo, bringing together the best of a vibrant botanical garden with the wonder inspired by a wildlife encounter with a penguin or feeding a giraffe.
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MEMORY LANE: (Baby) FIONA (Over 6 MILLION Views Later)
This new year must be brining a feeling of nostalgia to me…I hope you enjoy this trip down Memory Lane as much as I do! (View the WHOLE SERIES BELOW)
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RICO ReFRESHer
Ever wondered what it’s like to train a porcupine? Meet Rico, the Cincinnati Zoo’s famous ambassador animal! In this special Zoo Secrets video, I had the chance to film a fascinating keeper talk featuring Rico, a prehensile-tailed porcupine, as he showcased his training, feeding, and natural behaviors. The zookeeper answers questions from the audience, sharing fun facts about porcupines, their unique adaptations, and how Rico helps educate visitors.
Since this was a family event, you’ll hear plenty of excited kids in the audience as they learn about this adorable nocturnal porcupine. Whether you’re an animal lover, a zoo fan, or just curious about porcupine training, this video is full of amazing animal facts and behind-the-scenes insights!
Conservation Corner
Sihek Recovery Program
Sihek Recovery Program*, a global collaborative of conservationists dedicated to reestablishing the sihek in the wild for return to its homeland in Guam. The birds re-introduced have displayed very promising behavior such as eating right away, instinctually preening when they experienced their first rainfall and successfully hunting the spiders, geckos and crabs they will rely on for food.
*The Sihek Recovery Program is a global collaborative of conservationists dedicated to recovering one of Guam’s most iconic native species, the sihek (Guam kingfisher, Todiramphus cinnamominus). The Sihek Recovery Program is made up of partners from the following organizations: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS), Guam DAWR, ZSL, The Nature Conservancy (TNC), Sedgwick County Zoo, AZA, and the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Until threats on Guam are mitigated, the Sihek Recovery Program is working to identify suitable release locations elsewhere to help grow the global sihek population, safeguard the species against extinction, and refine release methods to support the ultimate goal of returning sihek home to Guam.
The CHamoru people refer to the Guam kingfisher as sihek.
*The CHamoru name is spelt with a capitalised H.
Not To Be Forgotten Heroes
Nancy Russell Mitchell (May 10, 1947 – January 5, 2026)
Nancy Russell Mitchell, 78, of Fort Thomas, Kentucky, passed away on Monday, January 5, 2026, at UK King’s Daughters Medical Center.
She was born on May 10, 1947, in Ashland, Kentucky, to the late Otto H. Russell and Mary Eileen (Byrne) Russell. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, David Russell.
Nancy was a 1965 graduate of Paul Blazer High School. She continued her education at Eastern Kentucky University and Northern Kentucky University and dedicated her professional life to teaching elementary school in the Cincinnati Public School System. After retiring, Nancy generously gave her time volunteering with baby animals at the Cincinnati Zoo. She also loved to travel and was fortunate to visit much of the world, exploring most continents.
A lifelong animal lover, Nancy was the matriarch of her family and a devoted, caring sister who always looked out for others. She will be remembered for her kindness, curiosity, and deep love for family and friends.
She is survived by her sister, Jennie Russell Williams of Ashland, Kentucky; nieces, Rebekah Williams and Megan (Craig) Wallace; great-nephews, Matthew Bowen and Augustus Williams; great-niece, Morgan Wallace; a special brother-in-law, Pete Williams; and many extended family members and dear friends.
In keeping with her wishes, no services will be held.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in Nancy’s memory to the CREW at Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
To share a memory of Nancy or offer condolences to her family, please visit steenfuneralhome.com.
https://www.steenfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Nancy-Russell-Mitchell?obId=46853570
Did You Know?
The Zoo Offers Winter Discount Days! Enjoy discounted admission from January 5 – March 1, 2026.
In Case You Missed It
Year-End Wrap Up:
We would love to hear from you about your Volunteer Experience in 2025. For the next month we will have a survey available for all active volunteers so that we can hear your voice. Click on the link below to complete the survey.
Click Here for the Volunteer Program Evaluation Survey
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FULL Volunteer Program REFRESHER
Has it been a few years since you completed New Volunteer Orientation? Feeling a little unsure about the perks, expectations, protocols, or procedures? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!
You can revisit all the information from the New Volunteer Orientation right in our volunteer management system, Better Impact. Whether you want to refresh your memory on the entire orientation or just focus on specific areas, it’s all at your fingertips.
Follow the instructions below to check it out and get back up to speed!
How to Review Virtual Orientation
- Log in to your account and click My Profile in the top-right corner.
- From the dropdown menu, select Training.
- In the new window, find “New Volunteer Orientation” and click Take to begin.
Need help? Watch this video tutorial on accessing the Virtual Orientation.
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Carol Trosset’s Natural Lecture Series 2026 Dates
Carol’s monthly Natural History Lecture Series for volunteers will continue in 2026! Below you will find a list of the scheduled lectures from January to July.
If you would like to attend, please sign up in Better Impact. *E-mails are sent to everyone who signs up with instructions on where to park and where to meet the day before the lecture.
- Tues., FEBRUARY 10, 2026 – The Zoo’s Local Conservation Programs – Guest Speaker: Mollie O’Neil
- Fri., MARCH 13, 2026 – Cat-like Carnivores
- APRIL 2026 (Two Dates TBD) – Wildflower Walks at Gorman Heritage Farm
- Tues. & Fri., May 5 & 8, 2026 – Bird Walks at Spring Grove
- Fri., June 12, 2026 – Ancient and Modern Elephants
- Fri., July 10, 2026 – Primates
- Tues., August 18, 2026 – TBD
- Tues., September 8, 2026 – TBD
- Tues., October 20, 2026 – TBD
- Tues., November 10, 2026 – TBD
- Fri., December 11, 2026 – TBD
*Review the PowerPoint presentations from the previous 2026 lectures below
- Tuesday January 13, 2026 – Animals in Winter
Did you miss one of the 2025 Lectures? Links to all the previous slide presentations can now be found on the Better Impact Page under the Files section.
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TRAVEL WITH THE ZOO IN 2026!
The Cincinnati Zoo is offering some exceptional travel experiences in 2026, each connecting travelers with wildlife, conservation, and unforgettable landscapes!
Come travel with the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden! We have been taking folks around the globe since 1964. Our trips are adventurous, educational, and fun. All our tours are escorted by zoo naturalists who are knowledgeable, friendly, and well-traveled. Our trips create real-life connections with like-minded travelers. Come join us today on our next exciting adventure!
Questions? Please contact Christina Anderson at 513-487-3318 or [email protected]
- *SOLD OUT* MEXICO: Monarch Migration (Feb. 10 – 16, 2026)
- Led by Brian Jorg, Horticulture Manager
- *ONLY FIVE SPOTS REMAINING* CUBA: Bird Watching (Feb. 22 – Mar. 1, 2026)
- Led by David Orban, Director, Animal Science and Strategy
- Experience Cuba’s vibrant ecosystems, wildlife, and the Zoo’s conservation partnerships
- *BRAND NEW DESTINATION* BRAZIL: (Sept. 5 – 18, 2026)
- Led by Mollie O’Neil, Director of Community Partnerships in Conservation
- Explore Brazil’s extraordinary biodiversity, lush habitats, and remarkable wildlife encounters. You will get to see firsthand our Conservation Impact partners
- *ONLY FOUR SPOTS REMAINING* PATAGONIA: (Feb. 18 – 28, 2027)
- Led by Mark Fisher, COO CZBG
- Expedition through the dramatic landscapes and wildlife of Patagonia.
- This fan-favorite trip fills quickly—only four spots remain.
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2026 ZOO EVENTS:
| Date: | Event: | Time: |
| February 4 – March 4, 2026 | Landscaping for the Homeowner | 7:00-9:00pm |
| Saturday, February 14, 2026 | Galentine’s Day Brunch | 11:00am-1:00pm |
| March 18 – April 29, 2026 | Barrows Conservation Lectures | 7:00pm |
| Thursday, March 19, 2026 | Sustainable Urban Landscapes Symposium | 8:50am-5:00pm |
| Sunday, March 22, 2026 | Cheetah Run 5K | 8:00am |
| April 1 – 30, 2026 | Zoo Blooms | 10:00am-5:00pm |
| Thursdays in April 2026 | Tunes & Blooms | 6:00-8:30pm |
| Saturday, April 4, 2026 | Easter Celebration | 12:00-5:00pm |
| Friday, April 10, 2026 | Zootanical | 5:30pm-9:00pm |
| April 18, May 2 and May 16 | Native Plant Sale at Bowyer | 9:00am-1:00pm |
| Thursday, May 7, 2026 | Bourbon Flights | 7:00-10:00pm |
| Monday, May 11, 2026 | Zoo Golf | TBD |
| Friday, June 26, 2026 | Zoo La La | 7:30-11:00pm |
| Monday, July 6, 2026 | Reds Day at the Zoo | 11:00am-12:00pm |
| Thursday, August 6, 2026 | Wild About Wine | 7:00-10:00pm |
| Thursday, August 27, 2026 | Plant Trials Symposium | 8:50am-5:00pm |
| Friday, September 18, 2026 | ZOOFARI | 7:00pm-11:00pm |
| Thursday, October 1, 2026 | Zoo Brew | 7:00-10:00pm |
| October 10-11, 17-18, 24-25 and 31- Nov 1 | HallZOOween | 12:00pm-5:00pm |
| Saturday, November 21, 2026 | Native Plant Symposium | 8:50am-4:00pm |
DAD-JOKE ZONE, MLK Jr. Edition:
