I just wanted to stop by to wish everyone a very happy International Tiger Day!

International Tiger Day was declared in 2010 at the St. Petersberg Tiger Summit. What can you do to celebrate, you ask? Well you could:

1) Watch a cool tiger documentary, like this one and this one!

2) Get informed on tiger conservation issues. There are an estimated 3,200 tigers remaining in the wild, but why? Go to a local book store or library and check out a book on tigers. I'd recommend Tigers of the World by Valmik Thapar or Life of Pi by Yann Martel. Do a Google search on tigers...there is plenty of information out there, all you have to do is go looking! Spread awareness here on FA and elsewhere!

3) Plan a fundraiser at your local school or place of work to raise money!

4) Do some volunteer work at your local zoo or exotic animal rescue (be sure they're legitimate though). Ask the zoo what their tiger enrichment program is and if you can help bring in toys for them to play with. Watermelons make for a fun, messy toys for tigers. If a local conservation group that works with tigers is nearby, ask if you can come in and volunteer. Even a little bit of your time and skills help!

5) Post tiger related artwork or literature to your account. Already have? Post a link in the comments and share it with others!

6) On Facebook? Visit FREELAND and grab some cool timeline covers featuring photography by yours truly! Be sure to follow as well!

7) Learn about the work myself and FREELAND are doing in Thailand to protect tigers!

8) Donate to your favourite tiger non-profit. There are many organizations out there doing great work. I'm biased so I have to recommend FREELAND!

9) Looking for some tiger photography to adorn your den or to give as a gift? Don't buy something mass produced. You can get any of your favourite tiger photos of mine in a print on deviantArt and shipped directly to you. If it is not set up as a print, let me know and I can put it up for you!

10) Tell people about International Tiger Day in YOUR journal too! Spread the word!

I just wanted to update about my work in Thailand through my internship with FREELAND (which YOU have supported).

It's official: Thanks to FREELAND, I'll be spending at least a few more months in Thailand working with them for the conservation of tigers and other wildlife in Southeast Asia. I'm quite happy about that.

Many people here have been a tremendous help in getting me to this point. Because of you, I can continue to contribute to the conservation of tigers and other wildlife here in Thailand. I'm also getting experience and developing skills I've never had before, providing a solid foundation for a career in conservation. I'm truly thankful.

If you are interested in some of the things I've been up to here, please visit my blog at http://hewhowalkswithtigers.blogspot.com

-WT

P.S.: I have massive photography constipation. Hopefully, things will be less busy and I can make a tiger-sized photography dump all over this page.

I'm seething with jealousy. Enjoy yourselves!

*scowls*

(Edit: For those who don't know, I am not attending because I am in Thailand doing some tiger conservation work with a non-profit called FREELAND. As much as I love it, I lament missing AC this year.)

Hello All,

I just wanted to let my watchers know that my photography was featured in a fantastic e-magazine released by FREELAND, the organization I am currently interning for. It's great stuff so be sure to check it out!

http://issuu.com/freelandfoundation.....issue4_english

I have about a month before my internship officially ends. I desperately want to stay and am working to try and find a way to do that, but it's tough going. Wish me luck!

-Eric

Another blog entry from my work with FREELAND. This time, I return to the forests of eastern Thailand to help set up camera to monitor wildlife. However, in this second trip, I find myself working with the Thai rangers on my own! Feel free to take a look and have a read!

http://hewhowalkswithtigers.blogspo.....to-forest.html

-WT

During my internship, I had the opportunity to visit one of Thailand's most famous protected areas: Huai Kha Khaeng. Assailed by poaching, the sanctuary has since recovered its tiger populations and is fighting back. Success here can help restore tiger populations in the western forest complex and set an example for the rest of Thailand as well. Please take a look!

http://hewhowalkswithtigers.blogspo.....ha-khaeng.html

-Eric/Kuba

Hey Folks,

I wanted to take a little bit of time to share a really cool project with you that you can be a part of.

Two of my friends and fantastic FA members  foxfeather and  mbala are looking to kickstart their farm through the introduction of natural pollinators and trees which has the potential to restore the local ecosystem to its natural state. Please take a look and consider throwing a buck or two their way. You could get some fantastic art goodies too!

They are SO close to their goal, but if they don't raise enough, they get NOTHING. You can help the environment and begin a bee revolution in southern Minnesota.

Please visit their kickstart page here: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects.....bees-and-trees

-WT

I've updated my blog to include a little jaunt I had in Thailand's most famous park, Khao Yai National Park. In this entry I talk about somber stuffed tigers, a stubborn elephant and an exploding sambar deer. Feel free to take a look at the rest of my entries on my blog.

I wish I could be more active here, but I've been happily busy helping FREELAND. I've been up to some pretty exciting stuff. The only problem is it difficult to find time to talk about everything! Stay posted!

-WT

Update: I've made another post to feature photos that didn't fit in with my previous entry. Check them out!

--

As promised, I've updated my blog. In this entry, I pay a visit to the jungles of Thailand's eastern forest complex with FREELAND. Please take a look and find out the kind of work we're doing here. If you haven't taken a look at my blog yet, now is a great time to do it. It's one heck of an adventure!

I've been working very hard here at FREELAND, so much so that I've saved up a few extra days off which I'm now taken to catch up on things and have a relaxing birthday.

Thank you for your support!A

As promised, I've updated my blog. In this entry, I pay a visit to the jungles of Thailand's eastern forest complex with FREELAND. Please take a look and find out the kind of work we're doing here. If you haven't taken a look at my blog yet, now is a great time to do it. It's one heck of an adventure!

I've been working very hard here at FREELAND, so much so that I've saved up a few extra days off which I'm now taken to catch up on things and have a relaxing birthday.

Thank you for your support!

So this 'furry face' stuff is quite popular. Pshhh, I was doing that kind of thing 4 years ago! *puts on hipster sunglasses*

http://img849.imageshack.us/img849/.....dsc01518bv.jpg

A new blog entry with more on the way! In this journal, learn more about the organization I am working with, the great work that they do and some of the work I'll be up to as well!

In other news, I just came back from a second trip to Thailand's Eastern Forest Complex and found a tick on my arm. Here's hoping I don't get scrub typhus!

Hello All!

As mentioned in my last journal, the fundraiser was a roaring success and I now find myself as an intern for FREELAND Foundation. I will be spending a few months here in Bangkok helping out the organization and, hopefully, making an impact for the tiger. It's been VERY busy so far, but I am finally going to be keeping you folks updated on the activities you have supported.

Initially, I had envisioned an "eNewsletter"; however, given the amount of work I am doing, it would be difficult to condense everything into one publication sent out only once per month. Therefore, I'll be using my blog to share stories, photos and video, which I hope you will enjoy.

Feel free to head over to my blog here and learn about my adventures as an intern with FREELAND Foundation and beyond!

-Eric/Kuba

P.S.: I apologize for the slow replies to your messages. I really appreciate your encouragement and comments!

Update 7:

Hello All!

I have a few announcements for you wonderful people.

To get it out of the way, I want to say that the fundraiser here and on DeviantArt has been a wonderful success and as a result of the fundraiser here and elsewhere, I have enough confidence that I will be able to conduct the internship with FREELAND for a minimum of 6 weeks. That means, thanks to your generosity, FREELAND has gained a passionate intern and I've gained an opportunity to help make a difference for the animals we all care about! I will be boarding a plane this Tuesday to get the journey started and will keep everyone updated with what your efforts have supported!

I want to give a huge thanks to everyone who has generously supported this fundraiser and taken home some of my photography. Like myself, I know a lot of you don't have much money, but you supported me anyway. I find that to be a tremendous honour and I will do my best to ensure that your support is translated into success in Thailand for species like tigers and elephants. I encourage all of you to visit FREELAND.org to learn more about this great organization that I will be working with.

I have to give particular thanks to a few individuals who really helped to spread the word about this fundraiser or offer wonderful gifts to those who participated including  moonsongwolf,  arrowroot,  penda,  konekocloud and  tanidareal (if I missed you here, please let me know). All of you showed that it doesn't necessarily take money to help out a good cause. We can all use our skills and spread the word to lend a helping hand! I am quite indebted to you!

Many of you may be wondering where the fundraiser will go from here. I WILL be continuing the fundraiser on a less formal basis and WILL remain open to contributions and selling prints to help support the internship. This will help address unanticipated or extra costs associated with the internship and potentially extend it further beyond 6-months. However, there will be a few changes to meet the needs of fundraising while I am in Bangkok.

Unfortunately, I WILL be ending the sale of calendars in their current form since I won't be able to produce them while abroad. To handle sales of prints, I will be introducing more of my prints to be sold on DeviantArt. It will be easier for both you and myself and will potentially lead to a diversification of products I can sell. I will also be looking to expand my sales to other, similar sites.

I will be very busy in the next few days getting ready for my departure. I WILL be featuring those who have made donations so do not worry...I will share your generosity with my audience here and I hope my watchers will support YOU too. If I don't respond to you immediately, do not take it personally. I am thankful to have every one of you, am honored in your support for my photography and am happy to see your enthusiasm about learning and protecting endangered species. We are all in this together and we ALL can make a difference, all it takes is that first step.

Thank you all!

-Eric/Kuba


---

Hello Friends!

Many of you know that I try to be as active as I can in wildlife conservation, particularly helping tigers. I've traveled to Thailand, India and Indonesia (Sumatra) in my quest to have an impact, but the time since returning from Asia have been very quiet. I've graduated from university and have been desperately searching for opportunities to start my career and help species in need. The fact that I haven't been successful and have not been able to put full-time effort into conservation has been something that has weighed heavily on my soul...but I hope in the near future things will change.

After years of shopping my resume to those who would take a look, one of my previous colleagues from FREELAND Foundation, a human/wildlife trafficking non-profit in Thailand, became interested in my skills and experience. I was extremely fortunate enough to be offered a full internship with FREELAND Foundation to help them in tiger and elephant conservation, complete with on-the-ground assistance to field teams. It would be completely voluntary, but it would allow FREELAND in executing programs and help communicate its work to a wider audience. There is also the possibility that it could translate into a paid job at some point in the internship.

Over the past months, I've saved very little, focusing on paying off student loans. I would love to take advantage of the opportunity, but the fact remains that I need to raise money to help FREELAND. It is for this reason that I'm starting a fundraiser to raise enough money to donate at least 6-months of my time in Bangkok.

I know that I've done fundraisers and print sales quite a few times, but I hope that you'll consider my work again this time around. You have already been incredibly generous and have made my dreams come true before. For that, I'm incredibly grateful. To have the support I've had from you has been amazing and I never take it for granted. I also believe it to be an honor that people would consider giving my work a home on their wall.

Sincerely,

WalkingTiger

---

FREELAND PHOTOGRAPHY FUNDRAISER

Help FREELAND, help a fellow artist, help yourself to some fantastic photos, and help cross a few folks off your holiday shopping list (while getting some free swag for yourself!).

I'm offering all photos in a variety of products to help raise money for an internship with FREELAND foundation, a non-profit in Thailand dedicated to stopping the illegal trade in people and wildlife.

Take a look at some of the products and pricing below. Customize your calendar or get your favourite photos as a print. Plus, 100% of the proceeds will go towards helping FREELAND!

*Larger prints available upon request*

SUPPORTER LEVELS

To thank you for your support, you will be given the opportunity for some free goodies including prints and journal features here on dA based on supporter levels. Every person who places an order will be given an eNewsletter subscription highlighting the internship! It's a great way to get your holiday shopping done early with some freebies for yourself (or the other way around)!

Donations are also encouraged and any donation made above $25 comes with a free 8x10 print!


HOW TO ORDER

Ordering is easy! Just send me a note with your choices and I will work with you to find the most accurate shipping and best method of payment.

->PRODUCT AND PRICING INFORMATION HERE<-

Update 6:

★★★2012 Calendar Clearance!★★★

2012 is almost upon us, which means it's time to get a 2012 calendar! Don't have one? Well, I have some extra pre-made calendars featuring 12 amazing photos for only $15 each! That's 25% off the cost of a regular custom calendar and they also come with a FREE 6x8 print of your choice! WHAT A DEAL OH MAH GAWD WTF! However, the sale ends January 3rd so ACT FAST! These pre-made calendars feature the following photos:

-Cub Conundrum
-Snow Stalker
-Hypnoteyes
-Bashii
-One
-Happy Year of the Tiger
-Beastly Innocence
-Epitaph on the World
-Simba Kills a Stick
-Pumpkin Carving
-What Dreams May Come
-Snow Smiles

Best of all, 100% of the proceeds will help fund an internship with FREELAND (see below)! Customized calendars are still available for $20 each. Send me a note and place your order before it's too late!

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE! I hope your 2012 is prosperous and 'end-of-the-world' free!

---

Hello Friends!

Many of you know that I try to be as active as I can in wildlife conservation, particularly helping tigers. I've traveled to Thailand, India and Indonesia (Sumatra) in my quest to have an impact, but the time since returning from Asia have been very quiet. I've graduated from university and have been desperately searching for opportunities to start my career and help species in need. The fact that I haven't been successful and have not been able to put full-time effort into conservation has been something that has weighed heavily on my soul...but I hope in the near future things will change.

After years of shopping my resume to those who would take a look, one of my previous colleagues from FREELAND Foundation, a human/wildlife trafficking non-profit in Thailand, became interested in my skills and experience. I was extremely fortunate enough to be offered a full internship with FREELAND Foundation to help them in tiger and elephant conservation, complete with on-the-ground assistance to field teams. It would be completely voluntary, but it would allow FREELAND in executing programs and help communicate its work to a wider audience. There is also the possibility that it could translate into a paid job at some point in the internship.

Over the past months, I've saved very little, focusing on paying off student loans. I would love to take advantage of the opportunity, but the fact remains that I need to raise money to help FREELAND. It is for this reason that I'm starting a fundraiser to raise enough money to donate at least 6-months of my time in Bangkok.

I know that I've done fundraisers and print sales quite a few times, but I hope that you'll consider my work again this time around. You have already been incredibly generous and have made my dreams come true before. For that, I'm incredibly grateful. To have the support I've had from you has been amazing and I never take it for granted. I also believe it to be an honor that people would consider giving my work a home on their wall.

Sincerely,

WalkingTiger

---

FREELAND PHOTOGRAPHY FUNDRAISER

Help FREELAND, help a fellow artist, help yourself to some fantastic photos, and help cross a few folks off your holiday shopping list (while getting some free swag for yourself!).

I'm offering all photos in a variety of products to help raise money for an internship with FREELAND foundation, a non-profit in Thailand dedicated to stopping the illegal trade in people and wildlife.

Take a look at some of the products and pricing below. Customize your calendar or get your favourite photos as a print. Plus, 100% of the proceeds will go towards helping FREELAND!

*Larger prints available upon request*

SUPPORTER LEVELS

To thank you for your support, you will be given the opportunity for some free goodies including prints and journal features here on dA based on supporter levels. Every person who places an order will be given an eNewsletter subscription highlighting the internship! It's a great way to get your holiday shopping done early with some freebies for yourself (or the other way around)!

Donations are also encouraged and any donation made above $25 comes with a free 8x10 print!


HOW TO ORDER

Ordering is easy! Just send me a note with your choices and I will work with you to find the most accurate shipping and best method of payment.

->PRODUCT AND PRICING INFORMATION HERE<-

Update 5:

I just wanted to post this journal to wish you a Merry Christmas, a fantastic holiday season and an amazing new year! I also wanted to let you know that the fundraiser is still on, but will end in its current form early into the new year so pounce on these deals while you still can! If you are interested in purchasing prints or making a donation feel free to send me a note!

If I had one (selfish) Christmas wish here on FurAffinity, it would be that you would consider participating in my fundraiser. It would mean the world to me and would help me on my way to making a difference for wildlife with FREELAND! Thank you for your amazing support!

---

Hello Friends!

Many of you know that I try to be as active as I can in wildlife conservation, particularly helping tigers. I've traveled to Thailand, India and Indonesia (Sumatra) in my quest to have an impact, but the time since returning from Asia have been very quiet. I've graduated from university and have been desperately searching for opportunities to start my career and help species in need. The fact that I haven't been successful and have not been able to put full-time effort into conservation has been something that has weighed heavily on my soul...but I hope in the near future things will change.

After years of shopping my resume to those who would take a look, one of my previous colleagues from FREELAND Foundation, a human/wildlife trafficking non-profit in Thailand, became interested in my skills and experience. I was extremely fortunate enough to be offered a full internship with FREELAND Foundation to help them in tiger and elephant conservation, complete with on-the-ground assistance to field teams. It would be completely voluntary, but it would allow FREELAND in executing programs and help communicate its work to a wider audience. There is also the possibility that it could translate into a paid job at some point in the internship.

Over the past months, I've saved very little, focusing on paying off student loans. I would love to take advantage of the opportunity, but the fact remains that I need to raise money to help FREELAND. It is for this reason that I'm starting a fundraiser to raise enough money to donate at least 6-months of my time in Bangkok.

I know that I've done fundraisers and print sales quite a few times, but I hope that you'll consider my work again this time around. You have already been incredibly generous and have made my dreams come true before. For that, I'm incredibly grateful. To have the support I've had from you has been amazing and I never take it for granted. I also believe it to be an honor that people would consider giving my work a home on their wall.

Sincerely,

WalkingTiger

---

FREELAND PHOTOGRAPHY FUNDRAISER

Help FREELAND, help a fellow artist, help yourself to some fantastic photos, and help cross a few folks off your holiday shopping list (while getting some free swag for yourself!).

I'm offering all photos in a variety of products to help raise money for an internship with FREELAND foundation, a non-profit in Thailand dedicated to stopping the illegal trade in people and wildlife.

Take a look at some of the products and pricing below. Customize your calendar or get your favourite photos as a print. Plus, 100% of the proceeds will go towards helping FREELAND!

*Larger prints available upon request*

SUPPORTER LEVELS

To thank you for your support, you will be given the opportunity for some free goodies including prints and journal features here on dA based on supporter levels. Every person who places an order will be given an eNewsletter subscription highlighting the internship! It's a great way to get your holiday shopping done early with some freebies for yourself (or the other way around)!

Donations are also encouraged and any donation made above $25 comes with a free 8x10 print!


HOW TO ORDER

Ordering is easy! Just send me a note with your choices and I will work with you to find the most accurate shipping and best method of payment.

->PRODUCT AND PRICING INFORMATION HERE<-

Update 4:

The ACEO deals from  MoonsongWolf and  arrowroot have expired. Thank you to everyone who participated! If there are any artists that want to offer similar deals, please get in touch with me!

The fundraiser is still going on. I'm working very hard here at home and I REALLY appreciate any help you can offer. A big thank you to everyone who has supported me thusfar.

---

Hello Friends!

Many of you know that I try to be as active as I can in wildlife conservation, particularly helping tigers. I've traveled to Thailand, India and Indonesia (Sumatra) in my quest to have an impact, but the time since returning from Asia have been very quiet. I've graduated from university and have been desperately searching for opportunities to start my career and help species in need. The fact that I haven't been successful and have not been able to put full-time effort into conservation has been something that has weighed heavily on my soul...but I hope in the near future things will change.

After years of shopping my resume to those who would take a look, one of my previous colleagues from FREELAND Foundation, a human/wildlife trafficking non-profit in Thailand, became interested in my skills and experience. I was extremely fortunate enough to be offered a full internship with FREELAND Foundation to help them in tiger and elephant conservation, complete with on-the-ground assistance to field teams. It would be completely voluntary, but it would allow FREELAND in executing programs and help communicate its work to a wider audience. There is also the possibility that it could translate into a paid job at some point in the internship.

Over the past months, I've saved very little, focusing on paying off student loans. I would love to take advantage of the opportunity, but the fact remains that I need to raise money to help FREELAND. It is for this reason that I'm starting a fundraiser to raise enough money to donate at least 6-months of my time in Bangkok.

I know that I've done fundraisers and print sales quite a few times, but I hope that you'll consider my work again this time around. You have already been incredibly generous and have made my dreams come true before. For that, I'm incredibly grateful. To have the support I've had from you has been amazing and I never take it for granted. I also believe it to be an honor that people would consider giving my work a home on their wall.

Sincerely,

WalkingTiger

---

FREELAND PHOTOGRAPHY FUNDRAISER

Help FREELAND, help a fellow artist, help yourself to some fantastic photos, and help cross a few folks off your holiday shopping list (while getting some free swag for yourself!).

I'm offering all photos in a variety of products to help raise money for an internship with FREELAND foundation, a non-profit in Thailand dedicated to stopping the illegal trade in people and wildlife.

Take a look at some of the products and pricing below. Customize your calendar or get your favourite photos as a print. Plus, 100% of the proceeds will go towards helping FREELAND!

*Larger prints available upon request*

SUPPORTER LEVELS

To thank you for your support, you will be given the opportunity for some free goodies including prints and journal features here on dA based on supporter levels. Every person who places an order will be given an eNewsletter subscription highlighting the internship! It's a great way to get your holiday shopping done early with some freebies for yourself (or the other way around)!

Donations are also encouraged and any donation made above $25 comes with a free 8x10 print!


HOW TO ORDER

Ordering is easy! Just send me a note with your choices and I will work with you to find the most accurate shipping and best method of payment.

->PRODUCT AND PRICING INFORMATION HERE<-

Update 3:

I hope all the American folks reading had a great thanksgiving! I hate to spam your inbox, but I have ANOTHER wonderful friend who is offering something cool for the fundraiser!

 arrowroot is offering you a FREE ATC/ACEO if you spend or donate $25 or more in the fundraiser (until Nov 30th)! This is in addition to an ACEO from  moonsongwolf (until Nov 27th). If you donate more than $25, you'll also get a journal feature from myself. PLUS, the freebies you'd get that are mentioned in the journal below.

HOLY CRAP!

If you need another reason to order soon, the holidays are creeping closer and closer. The earlier you order, the better chance you have of getting your order before Christmas! There's a lot of mail floating around this time of year, after all.

Thanks again for your AMAZING support!

Update 2:

The lovely  moonsongwolf has an offer you can't refuse for my fundraiser!:

"From now until November 27th, I will also add a headshot ACEO card (art trading card) of the character or animal of your choice for anyone who donates or purchases prints worth $25 or more! This is slightly more than my usual commission rate, but please keep in mind that you will also be receiving some fantastic animal photos ...plus, 100% of the money will be going toward helping FREELAND."

For more information, please head over to her journal on DeviantArt.

---

Hello Friends!

Many of you know that I try to be as active as I can in wildlife conservation, particularly helping tigers. I've traveled to Thailand, India and Indonesia (Sumatra) in my quest to have an impact, but the time since returning from Asia have been very quiet. I've graduated from university and have been desperately searching for opportunities to start my career and help species in need. The fact that I haven't been successful and have not been able to put full-time effort into conservation has been something that has weighed heavily on my soul...but I hope in the near future things will change.

After years of shopping my resume to those who would take a look, one of my previous colleagues from FREELAND Foundation, a human/wildlife trafficking non-profit in Thailand, became interested in my skills and experience. I was extremely fortunate enough to be offered a full internship with FREELAND Foundation to help them in tiger and elephant conservation, complete with on-the-ground assistance to field teams. It would be completely voluntary, but it would allow FREELAND in executing programs and help communicate its work to a wider audience. There is also the possibility that it could translate into a paid job at some point in the internship.

Over the past months, I've saved very little, focusing on paying off student loans. I would love to take advantage of the opportunity, but the fact remains that I need to raise money to help FREELAND. It is for this reason that I'm starting a fundraiser to raise enough money to donate at least 6-months of my time in Bangkok.

I know that I've done fundraisers and print sales quite a few times, but I hope that you'll consider my work again this time around. You have already been incredibly generous and have made my dreams come true before. For that, I'm incredibly grateful. To have the support I've had from you has been amazing and I never take it for granted. I also believe it to be an honor that people would consider giving my work a home on their wall.

Sincerely,

WalkingTiger

---

FREELAND PHOTOGRAPHY FUNDRAISER

Help FREELAND, help a fellow artist, help yourself to some fantastic photos, and help cross a few folks off your holiday shopping list (while getting some free swag for yourself!).

I'm offering all photos in a variety of products to help raise money for an internship with FREELAND foundation, a non-profit in Thailand dedicated to stopping the illegal trade in people and wildlife.

Take a look at some of the products and pricing below. Customize your calendar or get your favourite photos as a print. Plus, 100% of the proceeds will go towards helping FREELAND!

*Larger prints available upon request*

SUPPORTER LEVELS

To thank you for your support, you will be given the opportunity for some free goodies including prints and journal features here on dA based on supporter levels. Every person who places an order will be given an eNewsletter subscription highlighting the internship! It's a great way to get your holiday shopping done early with some freebies for yourself (or the other way around)!

Donations are also encouraged and any donation made above $25 comes with a free 8x10 print!


HOW TO ORDER

Ordering is easy! Just send me a note with your choices and I will work with you to find the most accurate shipping and best method of payment.

->PRODUCT AND PRICING INFORMATION HERE<-

Update 2:

The lovely  moonsongwolf has an offer you can't refuse for my fundraiser!:

"From now until November 27th, I will also add a headshot ACEO card (art trading card) of the character or animal of your choice for anyone who donates or purchases prints worth $25 or more! This is slightly more than my usual commission rate, but please keep in mind that you will also be receiving some fantastic animal photos ...plus, 100% of the money will be going toward helping FREELAND."

For more information, please head over to her journal on DeviantArt.

---

Hello Friends!

Many of you know that I try to be as active as I can in wildlife conservation, particularly helping tigers. I've traveled to Thailand, India and Indonesia (Sumatra) in my quest to have an impact, but the time since returning from Asia have been very quiet. I've graduated from university and have been desperately searching for opportunities to start my career and help species in need. The fact that I haven't been successful and have not been able to put full-time effort into conservation has been something that has weighed heavily on my soul...but I hope in the near future things will change.

After years of shopping my resume to those who would take a look, one of my previous colleagues from FREELAND Foundation, a human/wildlife trafficking non-profit in Thailand, became interested in my skills and experience. I was extremely fortunate enough to be offered a full internship with FREELAND Foundation to help them in tiger and elephant conservation, complete with on-the-ground assistance to field teams. It would be completely voluntary, but it would allow FREELAND in executing programs and help communicate its work to a wider audience. There is also the possibility that it could translate into a paid job at some point in the internship.

Over the past months, I've saved very little, focusing on paying off student loans. I would love to take advantage of the opportunity, but the fact remains that I need to raise money to help FREELAND. It is for this reason that I'm starting a fundraiser to raise enough money to donate at least 6-months of my time in Bangkok.

I know that I've done fundraisers and print sales quite a few times, but I hope that you'll consider my work again this time around. You have already been incredibly generous and have made my dreams come true before. For that, I'm incredibly grateful. To have the support I've had from you has been amazing and I never take it for granted. I also believe it to be an honor that people would consider giving my work a home on their wall.

Sincerely,

WalkingTiger

---

FREELAND PHOTOGRAPHY FUNDRAISER

Help FREELAND, help a fellow artist, help yourself to some fantastic photos, and help cross a few folks off your holiday shopping list (while getting some free swag for yourself!).

I'm offering all photos in a variety of products to help raise money for an internship with FREELAND foundation, a non-profit in Thailand dedicated to stopping the illegal trade in people and wildlife.

Take a look at some of the products and pricing below. Customize your calendar or get your favourite photos as a print. Plus, 100% of the proceeds will go towards helping FREELAND!

*Larger prints available upon request*

SUPPORTER LEVELS

To thank you for your support, you will be given the opportunity for some free goodies including prints and journal features here on dA based on supporter levels. Every person who places an order will be given an eNewsletter subscription highlighting the internship! It's a great way to get your holiday shopping done early with some freebies for yourself (or the other way around)!

Donations are also encouraged and any donation made above $25 comes with a free 8x10 print!


HOW TO ORDER

Ordering is easy! Just send me a note with your choices and I will work with you to find the most accurate shipping and best method of payment.

->PRODUCT AND PRICING INFORMATION HERE<-

Update 1: A huge tiger hug to  arrowroot for featuring my fundraiser in her journal. If any one out there would like to to the same, it would really help spread the word!

I've been dealing with dark times over the past few months so to have the opportunity to do an internship is something I want very bad. I'd honestly offer sexual favours if it meant I could raise enough, but that's too much of a legal grey area for me. =P

---

Hello Friends!

Many of you know that I try to be as active as I can in wildlife conservation, particularly helping tigers. I've traveled to Thailand, India and Indonesia (Sumatra) in my quest to have an impact, but the time since returning from Asia have been very quiet. I've graduated from university and have been desperately searching for opportunities to start my career and help species in need. The fact that I haven't been successful and have not been able to put full-time effort into conservation has been something that has weighed heavily on my soul...but I hope in the near future things will change.

After years of shopping my resume to those who would take a look, one of my previous colleagues from FREELAND Foundation, a human/wildlife trafficking non-profit in Thailand, became interested in my skills and experience. I was extremely fortunate enough to be offered a full internship with FREELAND Foundation to help them in tiger and elephant conservation, complete with on-the-ground assistance to field teams. It would be completely voluntary, but it would allow FREELAND in executing programs and help communicate its work to a wider audience. There is also the possibility that it could translate into a paid job at some point in the internship.

Over the past months, I've saved very little, focusing on paying off student loans. I would love to take advantage of the opportunity, but the fact remains that I need to raise money to help FREELAND. It is for this reason that I'm starting a fundraiser to raise enough money to donate at least 6-months of my time in Bangkok.

I know that I've done fundraisers and print sales quite a few times, but I hope that you'll consider my work again this time around. You have already been incredibly generous and have made my dreams come true before. For that, I'm incredibly grateful. To have the support I've had from you has been amazing and I never take it for granted. I also believe it to be an honor that people would consider giving my work a home on their wall.

Sincerely,

WalkingTiger

---

FREELAND PHOTOGRAPHY FUNDRAISER

Help FREELAND, help a fellow artist, help yourself to some fantastic photos, and help cross a few folks off your holiday shopping list (while getting some free swag for yourself!).

I'm offering all photos in a variety of products to help raise money for an internship with FREELAND foundation, a non-profit in Thailand dedicated to stopping the illegal trade in people and wildlife.

Take a look at some of the products and pricing below. Customize your calendar or get your favourite photos as a print. Plus, 100% of the proceeds will go towards helping FREELAND!

*Larger prints available upon request*

SUPPORTER LEVELS

To thank you for your support, you will be given the opportunity for some free goodies including prints and journal features here on dA based on supporter levels. Every person who places an order will be given an eNewsletter subscription highlighting the internship! It's a great way to get your holiday shopping done early with some freebies for yourself (or the other way around)!

Donations are also encouraged and any donation made above $25 comes with a free 8x10 print!


HOW TO ORDER

Ordering is easy! Just send me a note with your choices and I will work with you to find the most accurate shipping and best method of payment.

->PRODUCT AND PRICING INFORMATION HERE<-

A little bored so I decided to have an open question super-duper fun session!

Ask me anything. Bonus points, gold stars and tiger chuffs to whoever asks the most interesting questions!

Check out my new video. It's a deep, complex film with lots of twists and turns!

Watch 'The Tail' here!

Journal Update

The final journal in the 10 part series is here at last! Although the journal is ending there are plenty of photos waiting to be uploaded so keep posted for them! I really do appreciate you reading and commenting on my journey. I couldn't have made the journey without the support of people here on FA and elsewhere; I am indebted to the people here who supported me and I did my best to take you along as best as I could. It was one hell of an adventure and I am glad to have had you with me.

____________________________________________________________

AUSTRALIA ZOO JOURNAL

-PART 1-
-PART 2-
-PART 3-
-PART 4-
-PART 6-
-PART 7-
-PART 8-
-PART 9-
-PART 10-

Australia Zoo Journal - Part 10

Snakes-

On the second day at the zoo I was able to make my way to the dark and gorgeous indoor snake house. There, the Australia Zoo hosts some of the most venomous snakes in the world including the most venomous snake, the fierce snake.

Snakes were one of Steve’s favourite animals and are number one in Bindi’s books. It was a must to visit and I made sure to take my time when I was there. Each enclosure provided information about the snakes, where they occur and the potential threat to people if a bite occurs. Although it was fascinating to get up close to some of the big scaries like the fierce snake, taipan and king brown, I was particularly fond of the woma.

The woma is a non-venomous snake native to Australia* that grows to a length of about 2.3m and has striking coloration. It will eat small mammals and reptiles and loves to hang about arid woodlands or shrublands with plenty of spinifex. Unfortunately, they are also an endangered species with much of their habitat being subjected to clearing and burning. Australia Zoo is the only zoo in the country that holds the form found in south-east Queensland and plan to breed it for release in protected areas.

I was quite inspired by this gorgeous snake who decided that it liked following me around as I attempted to take photos of it. I wasn’t sure if it saw its reflection in the camera lens and thought it was another snake, but in any case, it was absolutely adorable. It flicked its little tongue at the camera and was curious and animated as any other charismatic animal. What a little beauty!

Photo: Black Tiger
Photo: Scrub Surfer
Photo: Beautiful Woma

-Cheetah-

During our trips to Australia Zoo, we made our home base a local town named Caloundra. We were provided with complimentary shuttle services to the zoo and back every day. On the second day, our driver informed us that if we were in the right place at the right time (she may have let slip where and when) that we could spot one of the zoo’s cheetahs on a walk with a handler.

Sure enough, we were rewarded with the appearance of a handler just beyond one of the fences where internal zoo vehicles travel. The cheetah was on a walk for enrichment and perhaps to reinforce its bond with its handler and people in general. It was given a lovely frozen milk treat to slurp with its happy handler as he talked to guests, answering any questions they have. Although guests couldn’t touch the cheetah, it was nonetheless impressive to see it at such close range. Everyone involved seemed to enjoy the experience, though I think the cheetah might have been especially spoiled with the treat.

Photo: Cat Treat

-Hospital-

Australia Zoo began as the Queensland Reptile and Fauna Park with owners that would not only operate a zoo, but also rescue animals. As the “Crocodile Hunter” films gained worldwide appreciation, more money flowed into the zoo, which allowed it to expand its operations. One of the ways it has stayed true to its origins is in the operation of the Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors Australian Wildlife Hospital, which rescues and rehabilitates all manner of injured wildlife that citizens report. Whether the animals is a fluffy koala injured by domestic dogs or a snake that has been hit by a car, the wildlife hospital will do its best to provide the care for the animal that no one else is willing to provide.

While making the necessary arrangements for our tiger encounter at customer service, we also purchased passes to go on a tour of the wildlife hospital.

The building itself was built out of sustainable materials and is energy efficient and is professionally designed to handle the many patients that come through its doors. Koalas are often victims of the increasingly human dominated landscape. We were able to meet some of the more healthy koalas and see some of the rehabilitation that was in progress with one that had been hit by a car. We also learned about some of the other threats facing koalas including habitat loss and disease.

One of the more adorable encounters on the tour was getting to see a poor turtle that had been recently bandaged by one of the dedicated staff members. They also had recently admitted an unfortunate king brown snake that had been injured by a car; fortunately, a courageous member of the public had spotted it and called the hospital rather than leaving it to die.

The hospital is truly a legendary place and another example of how Australia Zoo is helping Australian wildlife. I suggest anyone headed to the Australia Zoo check it out and anyone in the area to consider volunteering!

Photo: Blinky Bill
Photo: In Safe Hands

-Tiger Encounter-

As a result of our serendipitous meeting with Terri Irwin, my brother and I had the wonderful opportunity to have a tiger encounter with one of the zoos Sumatran tigers. After signing a waiver that seemed to go on forever, we were driven by a personal photographer to the behind-the-scenes entrance at the Sumatran tiger enclosure.

Photo: Gate Guardian

We learned that the tiger encounter program was one where tigers are on a general rotation, but tigers that don’t want to participate are not forced. Naturally, the zoo and guests prefer a tiger to be having a good day when out for a walk. We were also told about the many rules guests have to observe when with the tiger. Aside from the obvious “no sudden movements” and “do what you are told” rules that ensure safety, there were also rules that focused on the well being of the tiger. We could have photos taken with the tiger up close at the discretion of the handlers which only happen when the tiger is stopped and resting. If the tiger doesn’t stop for a rest and is not feeling up to having people around it, there are no photos (and no refunds). However, normally the tigers are quite agreeable and enjoy the experience as part of an overall enrichment program. I was rather impressed.

After being directed behind the scenes, we met up with one of the senior tiger handlers who walked us across a vast expanse of undeveloped land to the awaiting handlers with a subadult male tiger named Bashii. Among the handlers was a lovely fellow named Matt whom I had been in touch with long before my trip. The tiger was lying down and watched us approach with mild interest. We were then invited to crouch behind it and have our photos taken while petting it. We were also given permission to hold its surprisingly heavy tail in our hands, something I had not done before at Jungle Cat World. I later learned that my brother was more apprehensive to do this out of fear that he would accidentally touch the tiger’s exposed ‘balls’, sending it into a hormonal rage.

Photo: A Cautious Approach

When the tiger would decide to get up, we quickly stood and backed off. For being in such close proximity to one of nature’s most formidable predators, I felt quite safe. The numerous tiger handlers that were there to ensure our safety are world class, understand tiger behaviour, are tough as nails and take their job seriously. This is what sets them apart from many others in the field, as well as those who think they can safely own or handle a big cat.

Photo: Fun for All

Each time we stopped, we were able to pet Bashii, then completely at ease. It was a sublime encounter, especially when placing my hand on its side, feeling it breathe slowly. It is something that I will never forget and although we spent quite a bit of time with him, it was nonetheless too short for this tiger admirer.

Photo: Bashii and Kuba

It is the kind of experience that evokes awe and wonder. Sure, people all over the world take advantage of unscrupulous zoos and have the same experience with tigers that are not well cared for or well secured, but it is something different when you are with caring staff and a healthy animal that enjoys the experience, acting as a true ambassador for its wild counterparts. It is not just that you have the honour of being so close to such an amazing animal, it is that you are also truly helping support their conservation in the wild. As with everything at the Australia Zoo, it emphatically about the animals and their conservation, not inflating egos or wallets.

-Conclusion-

The last day at the Australia Zoo was quite tough. I didn’t want to leave and, in fact, I was trying desperately in my mind to come up with any kind of unlikely plan that could allow me to stay. However, reality is often a terrible buzzkill and I knew that I had to board the bus that was going to take me away. It was tough fighting back the tears and to look as unassuming and manly as possible when leaving. Nonetheless, I never thought I would be there in the first place and something told me that I would be back someday.

I began my trip to the Australia Zoo with a well established idea in my mind what it would be like. From the “Crocodile Hunter” films, I had learned all about the zoo and its philosophy, but in reality I had no idea until I had actually visited. Despite visiting with high expectations, the Australia Zoo managed to surpass them.

Although Australia Zoo is Australia’s number one tourist destination for foreigners, it is dedicated to showcasing the country’s wildlife to its own citizens. It enthusiastically encourages Australians to become educated and active in protecting the countries natural heritage in addition to introducing foreigners to what Australia has to offer. It courageously rescues animals that need help, even when no one else is there. Moreover, much like Steve Irwin, the zoo strives valiantly to defeat people’s hatred toward animals like snakes and crocodiles and build up a respect and admiration for them.

Australia Zoo is also there for animals from all over the world. Whether it is elephants, cheetahs or tigers, the conservation message is always present in every single sign or presentation and it delivers the message in an engaging and exciting way. The zoo’s popularity has allowed it to be active in fundraising for important projects to secure protection of these animals, a crucial element for any conservation program to be successful.

You would think that the Australia Zoo, given that it has enjoyed a new level of success with Steve and Terri’s “Crocodile Hunter” films, would place the focus on them. In some ways this is true, but it goes deeper than the promotion of celebrity. Sure, Steve and the Irwin’s are clearly visible throughout the zoo, but after spending time there it becomes clear that it is about their message and how they tell it rather than themselves. It has always been about the animals for the Irwin’s and their mission has been to take people with them on different adventures to encounter amazing animals, even if it is through a television set or a glass panel separating guests from a Sumatran tiger. This engaging approach to education ensures that people are not only informed, but they are also inspired to help and that is something that sets the zoo apart from anything else. The zoo lives and breathes conservation.

Steve Irwin is and always will be a personal hero to me. He is everything I want to be. I was devastated hearing the news about his death and the thought that his unmatched passion and enthusiasm would die with him was a shadow that has followed me. However, meeting the Irwin’s and seeing the zoo that had been so close to them and Steve, the shadow is no longer there. Everywhere you go at Australia Zoo, Steve’s message is alive. Everything Steve stood for is a driving, palpable force that pervades the very air itself. It is impossible to avoid. I felt as though being reminded of Steve constantly at the zoo would evoke sadness, but it did the opposite. It encouraged me to be a better person and to fight harder than ever for the animals on this planet that I have grown to care for. Steve Irwin may not have been there physically to shake my hand that first day I visited, but for me he might as well have been right there to greet me...and I reckon his message would be exactly what he said throughout his amazing life:

“Come with me! Share it with me! Share my wildlife with me! My job, my mission, the reason I’ve been put on this planet is to save wildlife...and I thank you for coming with me.

Yeah! Let’s get ‘em!”

-PART 1-
-PART 2-
-PART 3-
-PART 4-
-PART 6-
-PART 7-
-PART 8-
-PART 9-
-PART 10-

AC 2011 Wrap-Up

Well folks, AC2011 has come to a close and it was definitely eventful!

Coming down from Toronto with gishkishenh, I was expecting the border crossing at Buffalo to be business as usual. However, after being asked a number of questions about why I was visiting, they inspected the vehicle, found my framed prints destined for the art show and, eventually, my entire catalog of prints I intended to make available at the Artist Alley. We were flagged, had our passports and keys confiscated and after waiting about an hour, we were told that the value of the goods we were taking into the United States was too much. They then gave us an ultimatum: turn back or find a broker to set up an account with us and clear the artwork. However, they also told us brokers don't usually set up accounts for people in our situation so they were essentially telling us to go back to Canada.

We decided to try and find a broker, despite again being told how unlikely it was by another officer. We found a small Fed-Ex office and told our situation to anyone that would listen. There were a lot of raised eye-brows and I got the sense that it was a sticky situation no one really wanted to get involved with. Nonetheless, we pressed and two lovely ladies helped us with our situation and after an hour of pacing and worrying, we eventually got ourselves the correct paperwork and returned to the people who made all this trouble for us in the first place who cleared us and gave us back our passports and keys. We crossed into Buffalo with the burden lifted and excited to finally get going.

The rest of the drive to our destination could have been better. Construction often limited driving to slow single lanes and severe storms occasionally made driving extremely precarious. I was getting the feeling that I wasn't really meant to go, but eventually we made it. I dropped off gishkishenh at the Omni and I met my roommates, princessrei and odin36519 at the Westin who (thankfully) were willing to take me in for the weekend. The day’s events and running around frantically with all my belongings made me thankful to finally have a shower as well as a burger and beer with my new friends, jet3270 and Ishaway.

Friday

I woke up early and made my way to the Art Show to hang my framed works before running as fast as I could to make the sign-up for artist alley. I got in the first day, but I was heart-broken when I only made two sales. I was already in a long period of introspection, doubting my future in photography so after finding most people didn't even bother to take a second look at my work made me quite disheartened. Nonetheless, there were a couple of people who I was quite happy to meet; there was also a lovely young lady with a pair of deer-ears who purchased some prints, but I forgot her name so if you are out there, please say hello!

The night was spent in a wonderful lecture by gishkishenh on Aboriginal myths and misconceptions. Naturally, I had to pipe in and annoy her with my "I'm 1/16th Cherokee, what's my totem animal?" spiel. I also spent some time in the Art Show reception looking at some of the amazing works that were there; I also had the misfortune of overhearing some not-so-nice comments on my framed works. When my head hit the pillow that night, I thought a lot about whether any of my works would actually get bids and if all the stress was worth it.

Saturday:

I awoke early Saturday with much less motivation than I did 24 hours earlier. Looking at the AC website the night earlier, I had thought that I was not among those awarded a table in Artist Alley (I later learned it was last year's list). Last year I made the mistake of not showing up to the lottery call and due to no-shows, I had actually been awarded a table; as a result, this year I had begrudgingly dragged my wares anyway in the hopes that people would not show up. Arriving, I noticed very few people were there and after several calls there were many people who had lost tables, increasing my chances. Whether people didn't know the time to be there, were too hung over or didn't feel like manning a table, I did not know. To my horror, I could not get a hold of gishkishenh whose name was called, but was not there to claim the table. So many people were absent that my name was called, to my surprise.

I was extremely fortunate to have been awarded a table because almost immediately, I eclipsed my previous day's sales. Conversely, after talking with dealers I had found out it was a slow day for them so it was likely people had migrated to the Artist Alley that day. I had the opportunity to speak with many different people and I was flattered that so many had shown interest in my photos and the animals I work with. Some people bought multiple prints including one fantastic person who adored "Stellar" (which I have a soft spot for, but went unloved by the watchers of dA and FA).

gishkishenh hosted another wonderful panel, but I was too late to witness anything but audience questions, much to my dismay. That night, I did some photo processing in the noisy Zoo with Ishaway and Holly who later left to their more peaceful hotel room. Not knowing many in the community, I spent the rest of the night personally roaming about the Westin and convention center. I spied part of the mature voice auction from the back, enjoyed part of the late night rave and peacefully reveled in the rooftop vistas of the convention center. I enjoyed myself, but next year I hope to find myself amongst drinking buddies.

Sunday:

Like Saturday, Sunday began with a scramble to make the Artist Alley lottery. With even fewer individuals than the day before, I obtained a table for the final day. I did relatively well, meeting even more fantastic people and selling a few prints in the process. I also heard news that some of my Art Show works were getting bids, which was unexpected news. I did not think any of my works would get bids, let alone multiple works. I also sold a leopard photo to some very skilled individuals quite popular in the community, which was quite flattering.

By the end of it all, I had respectable success in the alley that day with people looking to pick up a few more items before the con ended. To my surprise, I had also sold 7/9 of my framed works in the art show (only the two most expensive were left unclaimed). Moreover, people voluntarily bid more than the minimum I had set, which was very flattering. With so few photographers out there at AC, I find it easy to get discouraged, but my confidence got a very strong boost this year. I'm very thankful to the people who took home some of my animal friends.

Later that night, I enjoyed a couple 'deliriums" at the Sharp Edge and wandered around once more after a meeting with friends fell through. I stopped by the dance party at the Westin where I watched some of the suits dance enthusiastically, which was quite surreal. It was also great to see the room erupt into a full rendition of "Don't Stop Believin'" when Journey hit the speakers. It was a great conclusion to the night.

Monday:

The drive back was far less eventful than the drive there although myself and gishkishenh did manage to spot a Google Maps car. Overall, the PCD hasn't been great for me and I almost immediately came down with a fierce cold. Coming back from any vacation isn't fun, but I would have rather come back to a job that is more aligned with my interests. Nonetheless, talking all weekend about animals and conservation has given me more motivation to develop a more respectable career.

A big thank you to everyone who made the con great. There were a few people I didn't get around to speaking at length with, but that's the way it goes sometimes. Hopefully, if I go next year I will have more time for sharing my experiences with friends.

Photos:

Rooftop Wandering
Drum Jam
Rave
Delirium Tremens
Google Maps Car

Journal Update

The penultimate entry in my 10-part journal series. Here I talk about some interesting parts of my experience there and share some photos. Thanks for reading, folks!

____________________________________________________________

AUSTRALIA ZOO JOURNAL

-PART 1-
-PART 2-
-PART 3-
-PART 4-
-PART 6-
-PART 7-
-PART 8-
-PART 9-
-PART 10-

Australia Zoo Journal - Part 9

After the encounter with the Irwin’s, my brother and I spent four fun-filled days at the zoo, much of which were spent visiting each individual animal. In my experience with other, larger zoos, one could usually see what there is to see in a single, full day. However, the Australia zoo, though smaller, is ‘chock-a-block’ with animals and experiences that demand one take the time to see everything. I know I could have spent much longer there and wish I could have made better use of my annual pass than just four visits.

It would be unnecessarily lengthy to speak about each individual animal and enclosure so I will instead cover some of the highlights of my experiences at the zoo and let some of the 2,643 photos I took do the story-telling.

Photo: Welcoming Committee

-Crocoseum Shows-

After setting up the date of our tiger encounter (which would be on our last day at the zoo) we headed to the awe-inspiring ‘Crocoseum’ where hundreds of guests could watch the various wildlife demonstrations and shows that Australia Zoo provides.

Photo: Pretty in Pink

We managed to catch a couple of those shows when we were there, which included excitement, humour and education about conservation. Birds flew about the stadium, grazing our heads at high speed while hosts spoke about the different species. Snakes were brought about the stadium for people to touch while those in the presentation area were placed in crystal clear water to show people how they swim; most importantly, presenters shared with guests the myths and misconceptions about snakes, their importance to the ecosystem and how people can safely co-exist with them. Perhaps most exciting were the crocodile demonstrations where hosts provided food at close range, just as Steve did, to show guests their stalk-and-ambush style of hunting. Crocs would hide in the clear water, slowly moving toward the shore without disturbing the surface before launching themselves frighteningly at the food provided. They were also encouraged to leap up out of the water to snap food dangled above the surface. As Steve would have wanted it, the crocodiles were the stars of the show and there was an ever-present focus on understanding, respecting and appreciating these apex predators, unchanged for hundreds of millions of years.

Photo: Water Glider

Each presentation concluding with the same inspiring messages that Steve emphasized in his wildlife documentaries; in particular, that it is up to us to protect these animals and ensure that this rock called Earth remains a living planet where all life can be supported.

Photo: Danger, Danger, Danger!

-Food-

One of the stereotypes of zoos is that the food is overly-expensive and underwhelming in quality. Not so for the Australia Zoo. In fact, my brother was so impressed with his reasonably-priced hamburger (complete with egg, bacon and beet-slice) that he wanted me to take a photo of it.

Photo: Burger Love

-Battery-

The impressive crocodiles at the Australia Zoo are plenty and the croc team can’t be beat. I already knew that from watching Steve Irwin’s documentaries, but I had one encounter that really sold me.

Photo: Green Oasis

While meandering from enclosure to enclosure, enjoying the gorgeous crocs as they sunned themselves, I noticed something strange. In the enclosure of ‘Scrappa’, a particularly aggressive croc sired by ‘Agro’, I spotted a shiny object in the grass right next to the croc. I used my camera’s zoom function to snap a photo before determining that it was a battery. I can’t be sure how it ended up there, but it likely wasn’t an accident. Being an avid zoo-goer, I’ve seen all kinds of deplorable behaviour from people trying to elicit a reaction from animals people deem too boring. I would wager that someone had thrown it in either to hit poor ‘Scrappa’ or at least to get it to move. In any case, a battery could potentially do serious harm if ingested; with its shiny appearance similar to the flash of a fish underwater, it wouldn’t be too unlikely for a croc to see it is a potential food source.

I wouldn’t be much of a Steve Irwin fan if I walked away from that enclosure with that risk intact so I made a point to seek out a member of staff to get the battery out. I found a nearby restaurant and one of the attendants was happy to call the croc team. I returned to the enclosure to meet with them as four of them burst out of the behind-the-scenes area with tools in hand. I showed them where the battery was and before you could say “Crickey!” one of them had fearlessly jumped into the enclosure with back-up at the ready, retrieved the battery and made his escape. If that isn’t dedication to a zoo animal, I don’t know what is.

After the battery was obtained, the croc team thanked me and went on their way with one shaking his head lamenting, “How could anyone throw a battery at a croc like that?”

A tip to all those reading this... In December of 2007 several young men were teasing a tiger named Tatiana at the San Francisco Zoo; this resulted in the tiger being so ill-tempered that it clawed its way out if the enclosure and killed a man before it was shot. At other zoos, many animals have been sickened or killed by food or other foreign materials being thrown into enclosures by guests, including those that were well-meaning. If you are ever at a zoo at you spot anything in an enclosure that shouldn’t be there (batteries, bits of plastic etc.), people throwing things into enclosures or people generally acting out toward animals be sure to inform a staff member or security. Take note of a person’s appearance if it is someone behaving inappropriately and give staff a description of that person. The zoo is a home for animals and they deserve to be able to live in a safe, peaceful environment. You can make a difference by stopping a problem before it becomes a tragedy.

-Tiger Enclosure/Show-

Naturally, one of my daily missions at the Australia Zoo was to see tigers. At that time, the Australia Zoo was showcasing its Sumatran tigers, some of which were first-generation off-spring from wild tigers on the island of Sumatra. I had also come in contact with a couple of tiger handlers that recommended the daily tiger demonstration.

Photo: A Tiger Welcome

I made sure to spend quite a bit of time at the enclosure, snapping far too many photos than any normal person would take and making mental notes about the enclosure design and enrichment programs. I was quite impressed with the enclosure layout, which was quite large and diverse. It contained platforms to climb on, spots for sun and shade, an undulating landscape to allow for play-stalking between siblings, a waterfall and a pool. Different tigers were brought in from day to day, which encouraged natural behaviours such as exploring, smelling the scent of tigers that had passed and scent-marking for territory demarcation.

Photo: Tiger Tombstone

Every day, a tiger presentation was held much like that in the Crocoseum. Hosts would enter the enclosure with the tigers, which were hand-raised to feel comfortable around people and encouraged to perform fun activities to demonstrate their power and natural abilities. The presenters introduced the individual tigers and used toys to encourage them play games of chase much like the average person would do with a domestic house-cat. A ball-on-string toy would be directed up a high pole where tigers would jump up over 10 feet into the air, grab the toy, turn around using their claws and have the incredible flexibility to make a perfect landing. Tigers were also encouraged to make dramatic leaps into the deep pool along with handlers making for wonderful photos, but a shot that was too elusive for me to get clearly! The presentation provided much needed exercise for the cats, but unlike abusive circus acts, animals are not forced to do anything they don’t want to do and are simply encouraged to express natural behaviours that they enjoy. It is an engaging enrichment program that I am sure both the public and tigers love.

Photo:Zen Tiger

Throughout each presentation, hosts would talk at length about Sumatran tigers, the threats that face them in the wild and what people can do to protect them. I was impressed with their emphasis on conservation of wild tigers, which is critically important. In addition to the presentation, the entire perimeter of the enclosure has information displays, videos and a souvenir shop to help raise awareness and critical funds for Sumatran tigers with 100% of proceeds going to field programs. It was an overwhelming environment with the entire focus being placed on what matters: the animals and their needs both in captivity and in the wild.

Photo: Distasteful

The Australia Zoo’s approach to conservation through exciting education is something that I feel is far more effective than that of other zoos which often settle for an informative sign. In order for people to act on behalf of conservation, they not only need to be provided with information about the animals, they need to be shown what is happening and inspired to step up. This is what the Australia Zoo believes and it delivers that message in inspiring fashion.

Photo: A Toy Too Far

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Part 10 will be the last journal so stay tuned!

-PART 1-
-PART 2-
-PART 3-
-PART 4-
-PART 6-
-PART 7-
-PART 8-
-PART 9-
-PART 10-