In Response to HPAI, New Roofing and Improved Netting Aim to Keep Birds Safe and On-Exhibit

(Schnecksville, PA) –With the abnormally high spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in 2022 and its continued presence in North American Atlantic flyway, Lehigh Valley Zoo has begun construction on permanent roofing over its Birds of Prey exhibit. The construction is part of the zoo’s commitment to keeping its birds safe from the highly transmissible and often fatal disease.

Additionally, LV Zoo will replace the current screens on the sides of the exhibit with improved mesh netting that will help prevent smaller, wild birds from entering the exhibits.

These upgrades are expected to be complete within 4-6 weeks and in plenty of time prior to the spring migration.

“Typically, outbreaks of HPAI are associated with wild bird migrations and resolve once the migratory season is over; unfortunately, this particular outbreak has never fully resolved, and we continue to see cases each month across the country in wild and domestic birds,” LV Zoo Chief Veterinarian Dr. Hilary Householder said. “The improvements to the Bird of Prey exhibit will lower our birds’ risk of exposure to the virus while reducing the impact that our increased biosecurity measures have on their daily lives – which allows them to remain in their normal enclosures in the face of this prolonged outbreak.”

The project, which will be done in sections, will keep some birds off-exhibit for a short period of time. Upon completion, these measures will benefit guests through the ability to keep birds of prey on-exhibit during such outbreaks. After reported cases of HPAI in close proximity this past November, LV Zoo moved the majority of its birds off-exhibit and to indoor spaces for several weeks in order to eliminate contact with wild birds on the property.

Earlier in 2022, LV Zoo’s collection of African penguins and lorikeets were kept off-exhibit for a three-month stretch, while barnyard birds and waterfowl remained off-exhibit the remainder of the year.

The Birds of Prey exhibit features the following species: American Eagle, Barn Owl, Barred Owl, Black Vulture, Golden Eagle, Peregrine Falcon, Red-Tailed Hawk, Snowy Oil and Turkey Vulture. Once the renovations are complete, LV Zoo will be adding both an additional Barn Owl and Barred Owl to the exhibit.

In January 2022, the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed the presence of HPAI in the U.S., along the North American Atlantic flyway. Since then, the spread of this HPAI outbreak has grown and cases have been confirmed in 49 of 50 states, both in commercial flocks and wild birds. HPAI is highly contagious among wild and domestic birds, causing extreme illness and death. As a result of the highly transmissible nature of HPAI, zoos throughout the country have implemented enhanced safety precautions to protect the birds in their care.

The roofing is being built by D&S Elite Construction of Douglassville, Pa.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Game Preserve, we have educated and entertained more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. Through a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

(Schnecksville, Pa.) – Lehigh Valley Zoo CEO Amanda Shurr and Lehigh Valley Zoo Conservation Education Director Cher Vatalaro visited the WFMZ studio for 69 News at Sunrise this morning. Joining them were Monty the Angolan Python and fan-favorite animal ambassador Bean, the Linnaeus Two-Toed Sloth!

   View The Clip

Lehigh Valley Health Network is the Official Motherhood Partner of the LV Zoo

(Schnecksville, PA) – Lehigh Valley Zoo, in conjunction with Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), has officially announced that another Scimitar-Horned Oryx calf has been born into the herd. LVHN is the Official Motherhood Partner of the LVZoo.

On November 9th, Mother Too Haute gave birth to Eclipse. Both oryx are doing well and have spent time off-exhibit to bond with each other before joining the rest of the herd.

Oryx gestation lasts about nine months, after which a single calf is born, weighing approximately 20-30 pounds. The female separates herself from the herd for a few hours while she nurses the calf. Weaning starts at 3.5 months, and the young become fully independent around 14 weeks old.  

Since Scimitar-Horned Oryx are considered extinct in the wild, this is a huge celebration for the LVZoo, which is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and a participant in the Species Survival Plan for scimitar-horned oryx. This means our Scimitar-horned Oryx are part of a breeding program where we help to maintain captive populations that are both genetically diverse and demographically stable.

By visiting the Lehigh Valley Zoo and other AZA member institutions, you’re supporting the highest level of animal care and welfare, along with the promotion of conservation of animals such as the Scimitar-horned Oryx.

Stay tuned for more information in the future as the calf continues to grow! A special thank you to Lehigh Valley Health Network who is the official motherhood partner of the Lehigh Valley Zoo.

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Lehigh Valley Health Network includes eight hospital campuses, three in Allentown, one in Bethlehem, one in East Stroudsburg, one in Hazleton and two in Pottsville, Pa.; Coordinated Health, which includes two hospital campuses, nearly two dozen multispecialty locations including ambulatory surgery centers and orthopedic injury centers in northeastern Pennsylvania and western New Jersey; 26 health centers; numerous primary and specialty care physician practices; 22 ExpressCARE locations including the area’s only Children’s ExpressCARE; pharmacy, imaging, home health, rehabilitation and lab services; and preferred provider services through Valley Preferred. Specialty care includes: trauma care for adults and children, burn care at the Regional Burn Center; kidney and pancreas transplants; perinatal/neonatal, cardiac, cancer, orthopedics, neurology, complex neurosurgery capabilities including national certification as a Comprehensive Stroke Center, and robotic surgery in 10 specialties. Lehigh Valley Cancer Institute, Lehigh Valley Heart Institute and Lehigh Valley Institute for Surgical Excellence physicians provide the most advanced treatments. Lehigh Valley Cancer Institute is a member of the Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Alliance, an initiative that helps community providers improve the quality of cancer care and offers access to MSK clinical trials. Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital, the community’s only children’s hospital, provides care in more than 30 specialties and general pediatrics. Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest is the region’s only hospital nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report for orthopedics and has been recognized among Pennsylvania’s top five hospitals for six consecutive years. Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH)–Cedar Crest, LVH–17th Street and LVH–Muhlenberg are the region’s only Magnet® hospitals for nursing excellence. Additional information is available by visiting www.LVHN.org/motherhood, or following us on Facebook and Twitter.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but as a treasured community landmark, the Zoo’s history spans over a century. Founded in 1906 by General Harry C. Trexler, a local industrialist, the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Game Preserve has educated and entertained more than five million people.

Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. With a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook @LVZOO.

(Schnecksville, PA) –

They have joined the Zoo’s 15-year-old alpaca resident – White Lightning in the barnyard last week. Both the new alpacas have different personalities – Illuminati, the chocolate brown one, is reserved while Havoc, the light fawn one, has a strong personality according to LVZoo Keepers.  

You can also visit a range of domesticated animals in the barnyard, including Dorset Sheep, Hampshire Sheep, Vietnamese Pot-Bellied Pig and three species of goats. Guests wishing to visit Illuminati and Havoc and the other animals at the Zoo can purchase their tickets online on the Zoo’s website by visiting lvzoo.org/tickets. 

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Game Preserve, we have educated and entertained more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. Through a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

LEHIGH VALLEY ZOO UPDATES ITS RESPONSE TO HIGHLY PATHOGENIC AVIAN INFLUENZA (HPAI) AS BIRDS CONTINUE TO BE AFFECTED

(Schnecksville, PA) – Lehigh Valley Zoo has continually monitored this year’s abnormally high spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) to best determine the level of risk to its birds. Recently, two cases of HPAI affected birds were found in Lehigh County, both of which are less than 10 miles from the Zoo. Based on the close proximity to the Zoo, animal care, veterinary and leadership teams made the challenging decision to move the majority of the birds on exhibit to indoor spaces in order to eliminate contact with wild birds on Zoo grounds.

In addition to its collection African penguins and lorikeets, which were kept off exhibit for a three-month stretch earlier this year, the ravens and all animal in the Birds of Prey section have been moved indoors. The Zoo’s Barnyard birds and waterfowl continue to remain off exhibit. Due to indoor space limitations, large birds such as emu and ostrich will remain in their exhibits. Other precautions continuing include higher levels of biosecurity for birds, including personal protective equipment for staff; restricted access to bird areas; and modifications to existing habitats.

“We have protocols and procedures in place to ensure the health and welfare of our animals. Unfortunately, sometimes this means they will be away from public view for a short period of time,” said Amanda Shurr, President & CEO. “Our dedicated staff of veterinarians and animal care professionals was able to quickly respond in order to better protect our resident birds. We will continue to provide excellent care for these birds in their off-exhibit housing, and we will also work to make modifications to their current Zoo habitats so that we can return them there as quickly and safely as possible. The Lehigh Valley Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is proud to demonstrate how we are upholding some of the highest standards in the field.

In February, the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed the presence of HPAI in the U.S., along the North American Atlantic flyway. Since then, the spread of this HPAI outbreak has grown and cases have been confirmed in 47 of 50 states, both in commercial flocks and wild birds. HPAI is highly contagious among wild and domestic birds, causing extreme illness and possibly death. As a result of the highly transmissible nature of HPAI, Zoos throughout the country have implemented enhanced safety precautions to protect the birds in their care.

The Zoo is committed to protecting the birds in its care, and will continue to work closely with other AZA Zoos, the USDA, the State Veterinary Medical Officer, APHIS and the Department of Public Health to stay current and abreast of any new updates. Earlier this year, the Zoo took steps to protect its highest risk birds by moving them indoors. This included African penguins, barnyard birds and waterfowl. The African penguins were able to return to their outdoor exhibit this summer, while the highest risk birds have remained indoors. There is no timeline as to how long this virus can affect birds in the U.S. While cases decreased in the early summer, they have increased again in the past two months as the winter bird migration has increased.

Symptoms of HPAI in birds include sneezing, coughing, walking or swimming in circles, and swelling of the legs and feet. Although wild waterfowl are the most common carriers, they are often asymptomatic while birds of prey, such as hawks and owls, and scavengers, such as crows and gulls, may show more severe infection. Other animals susceptible include carnivores, non-human primates, and pigs with possible infection occurring after the animal consumes an infected bird or consumes food that has been contaminated an infected bird.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the recent HPAI detections in birds do not present an immediate public health concern, with no human cases detected in the U.S.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Game Preserve, we have educated and entertained more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. Through a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Lehigh Valley Marshmallow Company Returns as “Official S’mores of Winter Light Spectacular”

(Schnecksville, PA) – Since 2014, Winter Light Spectacular (WLS) offers the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season in the Lehigh Valley. For the second consecutive year, the event will offer the perfect holiday treat. Lehigh Valley Zoo is excited to announce a continued partnership with the Bethlehem-based Stuffed Puffs® as the “Official S’mores of Winter Light Spectacular.”

With four fire pits throughout the zoo, making s’mores has always been part of the family tradition at WLS. Stuffed Puffs® Classic Milk Chocolate Filled Marshmallows make s’mores easier and even more delicious with their fluffy vanilla marshmallow stuffed with real milk chocolate that melts from the inside out.

“Going into our ninth year of the event, we continue to strive to enhance the magic of Winter Light Spectacular,” said Amanda Shurr, President & CEO of LV Zoo. “Sometimes, it’s the little things. In this case, the proof is in the marshmallow. Our guests were thrilled with the addition Stuffed Puffs® in 2021, and we were equally as thrilled to partner with a local company.”

Additionally, the event will now offer Stuffed Puffs® Cookies ’N Crème Marshmallows which elevate hot chocolate or coffee to a whole new level.

WLS, presented by Service Electric and sponsored by Members 1st Federal Credit Union, is scheduled for 38 dates this season, spanning from Friday, Nov. 11, through Saturday, Jan 1. Tickets are on sale now at winterlightspectacular.com.

Located at the LV Zoo and set up by Christmas Decor, WLS is the Zoo’s largest annual fundraiser and was featured by USA Today in “Holiday light displays worth traveling for across America.”

In addition to the Stuffed Puffs® fire pits, WLS features 1.2 million lights – a total more than any other Pennsylvania attraction, classic holiday scenes, numerous family photo opportunities, hot chocolate and so many other holiday treats. There will also be live performances every night featuring popular princesses Anna & Elsa, Belle and Cinderella. Revenue from the event supports animal conservation projects and programs at the LV Zoo.

Please visit winterlightspectacular.com and follow the Zoo on Facebook for tickets, daily WLS updates, promotions, contests, weather cancellations and so much more.

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Stuffed Puffs® has redefined the marshmallow category as one of the only innovative brands to ever fill marshmallows with real milk chocolate. Founded in 2019 by Michael Tierney, Stuffed Puffs® believes that Life Is More Fun Filled™ and that is meant quite literally. Their Classic Milk Chocolate Stuffed Puffs® melt from the inside out for the perfect S’more. They also can be used as a staple ingredient in baking, cooking, hot cocoa, or devoured straight out of the bag. BIG bites™ filled and coated marshmallows are the latest addition to the Stuffed Puffs’ collection of everyday flavors filling that sweet treat craving. Stuffed Puffs core line of Classic Milk Chocolate, Chocolate-on-Chocolate, and Cookies `n Crème Filled Marshmallows and NEW Big Bites™ S’mores, Birthday Cake and Cookies n Creme are available at stuffedpuffs.com and can be found at many Walmart locations nationwide. For more information, visit stuffedpuffs.com or Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Game Preserve, we have educated and entertained more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. Through a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Lehigh Valley Health Network is the Official Motherhood Partner of the LV Zoo

(Schnecksville, PA) – County of Lehigh, in conjunction with Lehigh Valley Zoo, is excited to announce that a bison calf has joined the herd this week! The calf was born on Oct. 14, 2022, the second born this year. Both the calf and its mother are doing great and are being monitored by LV Zoo Animal Care staff and veterinarians on the Trexler Nature Preserve, which surrounds the zoo property. LV Zoo is contracted by Lehigh County to care for the elk and bison in the Trexler Nature Preserve.

Bison are one of the first North American conservation success stories. The species was near extinction in the late 1800s, when they were hunted for their meat and bones but primarily for their hides. By the end of the 19th century, bison populations were eliminated over 98 percent of their range in the lower 48 states, resulting in fewer than 1,000 individuals remaining. Today, bison are making a comeback through population management on ranches and tribal lands, and protected parks and preserves such as the Trexler Nature Preserve.

The calf and mother can be seen with the herd on the Preserve. Stay tuned for more information in the future as the calf continues to grow!

A special thank you to Lehigh Valley Health Network who is the official motherhood partner of the Lehigh Valley Zoo.

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Lehigh Valley Health Network includes eight hospital campuses, three in Allentown, one in Bethlehem, one in East Stroudsburg, one in Hazleton and two in Pottsville, Pa.; Coordinated Health, which includes two hospital campuses, nearly two dozen multispecialty locations including ambulatory surgery centers and orthopedic injury centers in northeastern Pennsylvania and western New Jersey; 26 health centers; numerous primary and specialty care physician practices; 22 ExpressCARE locations including the area’s only Children’s ExpressCARE; pharmacy, imaging, home health, rehabilitation and lab services; and preferred provider services through Valley Preferred. Specialty care includes: trauma care for adults and children, burn care at the Regional Burn Center; kidney and pancreas transplants; perinatal/neonatal, cardiac, cancer, orthopedics, neurology, complex neurosurgery capabilities including national certification as a Comprehensive Stroke Center, and robotic surgery in 10 specialties. Lehigh Valley Cancer Institute, Lehigh Valley Heart Institute and Lehigh Valley Institute for Surgical Excellence physicians provide the most advanced treatments. Lehigh Valley Cancer Institute is a member of the Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Alliance, an initiative that helps community providers improve the quality of cancer care and offers access to MSK clinical trials. Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital, the community’s only children’s hospital, provides care in more than 30 specialties and general pediatrics. Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest is the region’s only hospital nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report for orthopedics and has been recognized among Pennsylvania’s top five hospitals for six consecutive years. Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH)–Cedar Crest, LVH–17th Street and LVH–Muhlenberg are the region’s only Magnet® hospitals for nursing excellence. Additional information is available by visiting www.LVHN.org/motherhood, or following us on Facebook and Twitter.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but as a treasured community landmark, the Zoo’s history spans over a century. Founded in 1906 by General Harry C. Trexler, a local industrialist, the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Game Preserve has educated and entertained more than five million people.

Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. With a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook @LVZOO.

TICKETS ON SALE WEDNESDAY FOR THE NINTH-ANNUAL WINTER LIGHT SPECTACULAR

The Popular Holiday Event Returns to Lehigh Valley Zoo for 38 Dates this Season

Eastern Pennsylvania’s most spirited holiday family tradition returns when Lehigh Valley Zoo and Christmas Décor host the ninth-annual Winter Light Spectacular (WLS), presented by Service Electric TV & Communications and sponsored by Members 1st Federal Credit Union. The popular event is scheduled for 38 dates this season, spanning from Friday, Nov. 11, through Sunday, Jan 1. Tickets go on sale 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 12, at winterlightspectacular.com.

This year’s edition kicks off with a pair of special offers for Opening Weekend (Nov. 11-13). Opening Night is on Veterans Day – so any veteran or active military member presenting either a valid Veterans or Military ID Card at the gate will receive one free admission. Additionally, there is a $5 discount for any Adult, Child, VIP Adult or VIP Child ticket purchased online to attend Friday, Saturday or Sunday when using promo code SECTV22.

Located at LV Zoo in Schnecksville, Pa., WLS is the Zoo’s largest annual fundraiser and was featured by USA Today in “Holiday light displays worth traveling for across America.”

In addition to 1.2 million lights – a total more than any other Pennsylvania attraction – WLS features classic holiday scenes, numerous photo opportunities, multiple fire pits, hot chocolate and so many other holiday treats. There will also be live performances every night featuring a popular princess (Elsa, Anna, Belle, Cinderella). Additionally, for the first time since the pandemic, Santa Claus will be back and available for picture packages during select time frames every event date through Dec. 23.

Revenue from the event supports animal conservation projects and programs at the LV Zoo.

For the third consecutive year, WLS will feature timed-ticketing set for two-hour sessions. This modification has significantly improved the guest experience since 2020 by greatly improving traffic flow into the Zoo and positively impacting parking availability.

For a full schedule and hours of operation, please visit winterlightspectacular.com.

Regular admission for WLS 2022 consists of lower priced tickets when purchased in advance: $15 for adults, $13 for children (ages 2-11) and $8 for LV Zoo Members, prior to online processing fees. Infants (ages 0-1) are free and there is no fee for parking, compliments of Members 1st Federal Credit Union. VIP Tickets priced at $33 for adults, $31 for children (ages 2-11) and $26 for LV Zoo Members are available in limited quantities and include WLS admission as well as a 2022 Souvenir Mug and unlimited free hot chocolate ($12 value), an exclusive hot chocolate toppings bar, a Smore’s kit ($4 value), a digital photo voucher ($5 value), one collectible WLS 2022 Christmas Ornament per group ($10 value), and a chance to warm up from the cold with access to the Jingle Lodge Lounge (priceless).

Regular ticket prices at the gate are $17 for adults, $15 for children (ages 2-11) and $10 for LV Zoo Members while VIP Tickets are priced at $35 for adults, $33 for children (ages 2-11) and $28 for LV Zoo Members.

Special group rates are available for advanced purchase for outings of 20+ people at $12.50 per ticket and 100+ people at $11 per ticket.

Looking for a unique holiday party for your employees, family members or friends? Cocktail parties for groups in the Jingle Lodge Lounge include food, soft beverages, a cozy fire, animal mingles and a place to warm up during your visit to WLS. To book a group outing, or purchase a corporate block, or learn more about boking a holiday party, please call the Zoo during normal business hours at (610) 799-4171.

While guests may spot some of the Zoo’s “night owls” during WLS, most of the animals will be off-exhibit.

Please visit winterlightspectacular.com or follow the Zoo on Facebook for daily WLS updates, promotions, contests, weather cancellations and so much more.

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About Service Electric Cable TV and Communications… Established in 1948 and still family owned, Service Electric is the largest privately held internet provider to homes and businesses in the Lehigh Valley, Wilkes-Barre, PA and Hunterdon County, NJ. As the first company to bring internet to the Lehigh Valley, Service Electric continues to build its positive reputation in the community and the communications industry, offering a variety of Internet, TV, telephone and telecommunication services. Service Electric comprises three divisions; SECTV, serving residential customers, SEB – Service Electric Business – serving business and commercial customers, and SEN – Service Electric Network – the in-house production company, bringing a variety of local sports and entertainment to viewers. For more information, visit www.sectv.com.

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Members 1st Federal Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution with over $6 billion in assets. With administrative headquarters in Enola, Pa., Members 1st serves more than half a million members through its network of nearly 60 branch locations throughout central PA, as well as its robust digital banking and call center channels. For the second consecutive year, Members 1st was named the #1 credit union in PA as part of America’s Best-in-State Credit Unions annual rankings by Forbes and Statista, Inc. To learn more about Members 1st and to find your local branch, visit members1st.org or follow the credit union on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest and Twitter.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Game Preserve, we have educated and entertained more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. Through a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

LEHIGH VALLEY ZOO WELCOMES CODE, A COMMON ELAND

Common Eland is a New Species at LV Zoo

(Schnecksville, PA) – Lehigh Valley Zoo is excited to announce the arrival of “Code,” a one-year-old Common Eland, from The Wilds in Columbus, Ohio. Common Eland are the second-largest species of antelope after the Giant Eland. Starting Aug. 20, guests will be able to observe Code in the Africa section of the Zoo, directly across from our Masai Giraffe and the Kiannala Feeding Deck.

“Eland is a new species to LV Zoo and we, along with the Lehigh Valley community, are excited to welcome him and to learn more about him and the conservation of his species,” said Amanda Shurr, President and CEO.

Code is currently one year old and is still growing. Once he reaches adulthood, he will weigh anywhere from 1,200 to 2,000 pounds — roughly the same weight as our resident giraffes, Tatu and Joshua. These athletic antelope can jump great heights and have sustained running speeds of 20 mph when escaping predators.

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums‘ cooperatively managed Species Survival Plan (SSP) is designed “to manage a genetically diverse, demographically varied, and biologically sound population” of certain animals. The SSP pairs members of the same species at accredited zoos based on their genetics. Based on the recommendation of the SSP, LV Zoo expects the arrival of two female Eland later this year and hopes to breed calves in the future. 

The Zoo’s future plans also include combining the habitats of the Eland and the Scimitar Horned Oryx, another of the Zoo’s African hoof stock. These animals live together in the wild, so by combining their habitats, the Zoo will enhance the welfare of each species while also educating guests about natural groupings.

Upon his arrival, Code will be able to access all areas of his exhibit, including his behind the scenes space, to ensure he is comfortably welcomed to the Lehigh Valley.  Guests wishing to visit Code and the other animals at the Zoo can purchase their tickets online on the Zoo’s website by visiting lvzoo.org/tickets.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Game Preserve, we have educated and entertained more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. Through a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

(Schnecksville, PA) – Lehigh Valley Zoo is proud to announce a partnership with KultureCity to make the Zoo, and all its programs and events, sensory inclusive. This new initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for all guests with a sensory issue that visit LV Zoo.

The certification process entailed the LV Zoo staff being trained by leading medical professionals on how to recognize guests with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation. Sensory bags filled with noise-canceling headphones (provided by Puro Sound Labs), fidget tools, verbal cue cards and weighted lap pads will also be available to zoo guests who may feel overwhelmed by the environment.

Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD and other similar conditions (one in six individuals). One of the major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to overstimulation and noise, which is an enormous part of the environment in a venue like LV Zoo. With its new certification, LV Zoo is now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible when visiting LV Zoo.

Prior to visiting LV Zoo, guests can download the free KultureCity App, which allows anyone to view what sensory features are available and where they can be accessed. Also, on the App is the feature “Social Story,” which provides a preview of what to expect when visiting LV Zoo.

“Our communities are what shapes our lives and to know that LV Zoo is willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in their community is amazing,” said Uma Srivastava, Executive Director, KultureCity. “We’re honored to partner with LV Zoo to provide a truly inclusive experience for all guests!” 

KultureCity is a leading non-profit recognized nationwide for using its resources to revolutionize and effect change in the community for those with sensory needs, not just those with autism. Since the program’s inception, KultureCity has created over 1,000sensory-inclusive venues in 6countries: this includes special events such as the NFL Pro-Bowl, NFL Super Bowl, MLB World Series, and MLB All Star Weekend. KultureCity has won many awards for its efforts, including the NASCAR Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award in 2017 and the 2018 Clio Sports Silver for social good in partnership with Cleveland Cavaliers/Quicken Loans Arena. The Cleveland Cavaliers’ Quiet Space Sensory Room at Quicken Loans Arena was a finalist for the 2018 Stadium Business Award, KultureCity was named one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies for 2019and 2020by FastCompany and recently won the Industry Partner Award in TheStadiumBusiness Design & Development Awards 2019.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but as a treasured community landmark, the Zoo’s history spans over a century. Founded in 1906 by General Harry C. Trexler, a local industrialist, the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Game Preserve has educated and entertained more than five million people.

Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. With a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook @LVZOO.