WAMU 88.5 : News

Filed Under:

Virginia Zoo Discontinues Keeper Aide Program

By: Elliott Francis // March 11, 2013
Play associated audio
comments

Officials with the Virginia Zoo say they recently dropped their Keeper Aide program, which allowed volunteers to help prepare meals and feed tigers, bears and other exotic animals. The volunteers also helped clean cages and move large animals between exhibits.

A spokesperson for the zoo says the change is made out of concern for safety and liability. Last week, a lion mauled and killed a 24-year-old intern at an exotic animal park in California.

Instead the facility is establishing a new program called the Behavior Enrichment and Animal Resource Squad.

The new program will allow volunteers to work with smaller less dangerous animals.

Arts & Culture

NPR

HBCU President Asks Dr. Dre, Why Not Us?

Hip-hop mogul Dr. Dre and music producer Jimmy Iovine recently donated $70 million to the University of Southern California. Many people are applauding their generosity, but some aren't so happy. Host Michel Martin speaks with Walter Kimbrough, President of Dillard University, about why he thinks an HBCU should have gotten the money.

Food

NPR

Canned Peaches Are As Nutritious As Fresh. Really?

What's more, when it comes to some nutrients, like vitamin C, canned peaches pack an even bigger punch than fresh, researchers say. The reasons have to do with how the canning process alters the fruit's cell walls. So eat 'em up!

Politics

NPR

CBC Chair Marcia Fudge Wants Caucus To Be Heard On The Hill

Ohio Representative Marcia Fudge is still relatively new on the block. But she's established herself as the new head of the Congressional Black Congress. In the role, she's already been very vocal about whether the President is doing enough for people of color. Host Michel Martin talks with Congresswomen Fudge about her ideas for America.

Technology

NPR

3-D Printer Makes Life-Saving Splint For Baby Boy's Airway

A 3-D printer is being credited with helping to save an Ohio baby's life, after doctors "printed" a tube to support a weak airway that caused him to stop breathing. The innovative procedure has allowed Kaiba Gionfriddo, of Youngstown, Ohio, to stay off a ventilator for more than a year.

Leave a Comment

Help keep the conversation civil. Please refer to our Terms of Use and Code of Conduct before posting your comments.