Brookfield Zoo, located in Brookfield, Illinois, is home to a diverse array of bat species, including the critically endangered Rodrigues fruit bat. As a zoo enthusiast, you’ll be delighted to discover the unique features and conservation efforts surrounding these captivating creatures.
Rodrigues Fruit Bats: Saving a Critically Endangered Species
The Rodrigues fruit bat is a species endemic to the island of Rodrigues, which is part of the Mascarene Islands in the Indian Ocean. These bats are considered critically endangered due to habitat loss and hunting. Brookfield Zoo plays a crucial role in the conservation of this species through its participation in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP).
Geographic Distribution of Rodrigues Fruit Bats
Rodrigues fruit bats are found only on the island of Rodrigues, which is part of the Mascarene Islands in the Indian Ocean. They are no longer found on the island of Mauritius, where they were once native.
Adoption Care Levels for Supporting Rodrigues Fruit Bats
Brookfield Zoo offers several adoption care levels to support the Rodrigues fruit bats:
| Adoption Level | Cost |
|---|---|
| Friend | $35.00 |
| Caregiver | $60.00 |
| Partner | $100.00 |
| Advocate | $500.00 |
| Guardian | $1,000.00 |
| Champion | $2,000.00 |
Each level comes with different benefits, such as acknowledgement on the adoption certificate, animal updates, and behind-the-scenes experiences.
Other Bat Species at Brookfield Zoo
In addition to the Rodrigues fruit bats, Brookfield Zoo is also home to Hispaniolan fruit bats, which are housed in the Small Mammal House. These bats are known for their agility and delicacy, and they are not as menacing as often portrayed in popular culture.
Bat Enrichment and Conservation
Brookfield Zoo engages in enrichment activities for its bats, such as providing them with bananas and apples to nibble on. The zoo also participates in conservation efforts, including the AZA’s Species Survival Plan (SSP) for bat-eared foxes, which helps maintain a healthy and genetically diverse population of the species.
Visiting Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield Zoo is located at 1st Avenue and 31st Street in Brookfield, Illinois. Post-Labor Day hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission prices vary, with discounts available for children, seniors, and carloads on certain days.
Contact Information
For more information or to contact the zoo, you can reach them at:
- Phone: 708-485-0263
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.brookfieldzoo.org
References
- https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/AdoptBat
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BQiGlx-3fTY
- https://www.chicagotribune.com/1991/10/11/myths-take-wing-with-brookfields-bats/