Emerson MacIrnsley, zoology expert from the RMZ, announced publicly that the Royal Moradian Zoo (RMZ) is now offering lifetime memberships. It was stated that the proceeds go toward making the zoo a more enjoyable and educational environment.
The RMZ has a history of collaborating with other zoos worldwide to preserve and breed endangered and threatened species through their wildlife conservation program. Captive breeding and management of endangered animals are the foremost concerns of the RMZ staff. This involves providing quality care for the animals, including daily exercise, rehabilitation of injured animals, and feeding schedules.
Members support the RMZ's efforts such as educating the public about the care and preservation of all wildlife and their habitats. Other educational programs include special research projects such as:
1. Studying the ecological impact of the disappearance of tropical rain forests on the fauna and flora:
It has been suggested that when a wilderness area is reduced to half, then approximately 15% of the species in the original area will die out. Although the island of Morada is not in close proximity to the Amazon rain forest, this topic has been of interest to some due to a few similarities.
2. Reduction of boredom behavior in animals:
It has been documented that improperly designed enclosures lead to boredom behavior, which is displayed when the animal moves repeatedly in a characteristic figure 8. This is true of all animals whether it is a fish, monkey or bear. The RMZ strives to provide the most natural environment while protecting both the animal and the public while meeting, and in some cases, exceeding established global zoo enclosure regulations.
These programs are especially important to tourists like Angela Bond, who said, "I hate zoos personally. They're too confining for the animals. I'm all for animal rights. I believe they should be in an open pasture. not cramped in false environments. I'm all for the supporting near-extinct animals. But I would hope for more private, realistic surroundings for them. They're not here on earth for us to stare at. They have every right to be out in the open as we do."
Many of the tourists enjoy different aspects of the zoo. Alec Harlequin's favorite part of the zoo was the snow cone place. He said, "That and the llamas." Although Miles Bukowski complained that the zoo was too expensive, he admitted that the monkeys were his favorite animals because he claims, "Once, I saw them throw (unmentionables) at each other." Ichiko Daiumi stated that the penguin exhibit was her favorite part.
When asked about the RMZ, Alec Harlequin said, "I like it, personally. I learned a few things going through there. and the animals are amusing. Good t-shirts too at the gift shop." The gift shop sells stuffed animals, t-shirts, figurines, and postcards of various animals. Harlequin was not the only tourist who enjoys the gift shop. When asked about his favorite part of the zoo, Quentin Perry replied, "The Gift Shop. Definitely. I liked the items they had. Otherwise, I liked the lions. I like African animals." The RMZ has an impressive African Plains Exhibit, which features several African animals that cohabitate peacefully in the same area, just as they would in the wild.
Amanda Jackson, RMZ member, said that she joined because "It's a really unique place and there is good food there, lots of neat souvenirs and the petting zoo is fun." Melanie Alexis commented, "Might be fun if it was more interactive. Maybe some new animals, or perhaps an event at the zoo. I like the petting zoo!" Adrian Wiley's favorite part is also, "the petting zoo." Eric Kennedy said that he likes, "The fact that the animals fight back if you tick them off." The petting zoo animals have been known to bite in self-defense.
Jasmine Cronin said, "Lately, I have been obsessed with the zoo. I love it there! I became a member because I fully support the zoo and their ongoing research and educational programs. Education helps the public gain an understanding and appreciation of all animals. My favorite part is the information boxes. Someone put a lot of work into building them so I like to use them to learn additional information about the animals and their environment." These information boxes are spread throughout the zoo. A zoo key, which can be purchased at the gift shop, is required to operate the information box.
Membership dues are a one-time fee of $2000. Member benefits include free admission to the RMZ during posted operating hours. The zoo is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and tourists are required to leave promptly at park closing. Admission for non-members is $56 per visit. Zoo memberships are non-transferable. The RMZ is located in Crosstown, on Calle de la Palma, which is east of Ocean View Road. Memberships can be purchased at the ticket counter at the Zoo.
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