Latest news with #DublinZoo
Irish Examiner
11 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Examiner
Tots to Teens: Penguins waddle into the limelight in new book
Did you know that Dublin Zoo has webcams that livestream its giraffes, zebras, rhinos, elephants, and penguins? Niamh Sharkey does. The former laureate na nÓg and creator of Emmy-nominated children's programmes used to watch the penguin webcam with her husband, graphic designer and author Owen Churcher, and their children during lockdown. They loved the flightless birds' antics and have published a picture book, Penguin TV. Written by Churcher, with illustrations by Sharkey, it imagines that the penguins are using the webcam to create their own reality television show. The story features a cast of Humboldt penguins, including the host, Horatio, Ruthie the diva, and Myrtle, who is eagerly awaiting her turn in the spotlight. It's funny and silly and will have the children laughing while also teaching them about penguins. Published by Gill Books, Penguin TV retails for €16.99. Bonny baby Calling all parents of cute babies. Glenisk has announced the return of its Sweetbaby Competition, which gives families the chance to see their baby featured on the packaging of its organic fromage frais. The competition is open to babies aged from six to 18 months. All you have to do is upload a recent photo of your baby and complete a short entry form at before July 18. You will receive a Glenisk baby product voucher as thanks for taking part. Vintage car convoy This year's RETRO Cannonball classic car convoy starts at Little Island, Co Cork, on Friday, June 13. The car convoy, which including vintage Mustangs, Lamborghinis, and Ferraris, will travel through Tipperary, Offaly, Athlone, and Tyrone, before reaching their final destination in Louth. At each pit stop, families will be welcome to view the rare classic cars up close, take photos, and meet the drivers. Olivia Howard (7) from Old Kilcullen and Isla Cox (7) from Newbridge pictured at the launch of RETRO Cannonball, starting in Little Island. Picture: Gareth Chaney. Every year, Cannonball raises money for a chosen children's charity and has raised over €1.9m to date. This year, it's raising funds for the Jack and Jill Children's Foundation. Find out more at When in Denmark... American author Jessica Joelle Alexander believes that the reason Denmark has been voted one of the top three happiest countries globally by the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) for more than 40 years in a row is due to the way Danes are brought up. Alexander says that when she went to Denmark for the first time, she was surprised by how well Danish children behaved. 'The children all seemed so serene, content, respectful, and well-behaved. There was almost no yelling, and parents looked genuinely joyful.' Now a mother of two who has lived in Denmark with her Danish husband, Alexander says the way Danes raise their children has changed her so much as a parent that she wants to share her experiences with others. American author Jessica Joelle Alexander believes that the reason Denmark has been voted one of the top three happiest countries globally by the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) for more than 40 years in a row is due to the way Danes are brought up. Picture: @daivagailiute/PA. So she wrote The Danish Way Of Parenting, which has been published in more than 30 countries, and she has now written a follow-up guide, The Danish Way Every Day (€23.20), with her friend, Camilla Semlov Andersson, a Danish family therapist. The new book describes the Danish parenting model in more detail, explaining how Danes get their children to do chores, cook together, and settle in to bedtime routines, as well as exploring how they deal with toddler meltdowns and teen conflicts. Happy in your nappy More parents are interested in trying cloth nappies for their babies and there are two big reasons why. One is the cost factor, with cloth nappies retailing for a fraction of the price of disposables. Two is the environmental impact. Once used and binned, disposable nappies are either incinerated or added to landfills. However, cloth nappies can be reused again and again. For parents worried about the practicality of switching, the Cloth Nappy Library offers nappy loan kits. For a cost of between €20 and €30, parents can try a selection of different nappies for a period of three weeks. By the end of that time, it is hoped that they will have found the brand and style that works best for them. Sign up for nappy loan kits at Read More Tots to Teens: Tiny atoms make big reactions at Cork Carnival of Science
The Irish Sun
28-05-2025
- The Irish Sun
‘Beat the cheetah' challenge as Dublin Zoo launch ‘Run for Wildlife' event with live music & show – here's how to apply
DUBLIN Zoo bosses have announced the first ever Run for Wildlife event - where contestants can 'beat the cheetah'. Participants will 'experience the Advertisement 4 The Run for Wildlife event takes place on Saturday, July 26 Credit: Patrick Bolger 4 Runners will 'experience the zoo like never before' Credit: Patrick Bolger The Run for Wildlife, is in aid of wildlife conservation, kicks off on Saturday, July 26, 2025. Dublin Zoo chiefs warned The race will help raise funds for the Critically Endangered Sulawesi crested macaque. Selamatkan Yaki, a conservation organisation based in Indonesia, are working to save the Critically Endangered Sulawesi crested macaque - also called the yaki in Indonesia. Advertisement READ MORE ON TRAVEL Participants can sprint or jog to help support the critical work of wildlife protection and habitat preservation. All runners will receive a bespoke medal handmade by local craftsmen in Indonesia. Founder of Manado Ecocraft, Henry Johanis, upcycles the waste material of local coconut plantations for arts and crafts, and has been working with his team to create eco-medals for the event. On the day, visitors can take in the atmosphere and enjoy traditional Indonesian singing, dancing and a magical show telling the story of the yaki by the Indonesian Irish Association. Advertisement Most read in News Travel Selamatkan Yaki's conservation efforts are built on long-term research and deliver a multi-faceted approach that blends conservation science with sustainable development and outreach. Arthur Gourounlian and family day out at Dublin Zoo Today, there are approximately 5,000 Sulawesi crested macaques left in the wild, and the species is considered to be Critically Endangered under the IUCN Red List. Hunting for bushmeat is one of the biggest threats to the species, however, they also face threats such as habitat destruction and fragmentation caused by farming and mining activities. Advertisement Director of Dublin Zoo, Dr Christoph Schwitzer, said: 'Dublin Zoo is excited to welcome visitors to our first-ever Run for Wildlife event, it's a truly incredible experience inviting participants to experience Dublin Zoo in a new way while also supporting the critical work of Selamatkan Yaki. 'We have developed a longstanding relationship with Selamatkan Yaki since 2010, funding their work in saving the Critically Endangered Sulawesi crested macaque. 'By taking part in this run, every participant is not only embracing a fun fitness challenge but also taking meaningful strides in support of endangered wildlife.' The event entry includes: Advertisement A bespoke eco-friendly runner's medal handmade by local craftsmen in Indonesia. An exclusive Run for Wildlife t-shirt. A donation to Selamatkan Yaki. Early access to Dublin Zoo with entertainment provided by the Indonesian Irish Association. Programme Director at Selamatkan Yaki, Dr. Sue Wiper, added: 'We are all thrilled at Selamatkan Yaki that Dublin Zoo is hosting the Run for Wildlife and highlighting the Critically Endangered Sulawesi crested macaque. 'The charismatic Yaki, as they are known here in North Sulawesi, rely on each of us to secure them a brighter future, and with the help and support of each runner we are a few steps closer to giving it to them – thank you.' A limited number of tickets are available for anyone aged 16 and over until June 6, see Ticket Info Participant (aged 16 and over) - €4 0 Runners must be aged 16 years and over. Price includes a €5 donation to the conservation of Sulawesi crested macaques. Adult Supporter - €22 Adult supporter tickets are for those aged 16 years and over. Child Supporter (ages 3 - 15) - €16 Child supporter tickets are for those aged 3 to 15. Children must be supervised at all times. Under 3 Years Supporter - €5 Children under 3 years supporter tickets are for those aged less than 3 years. Children must be supervised at all times. 4 Contestants can sprint or jog Credit: Patrick Bolger Advertisement 4 The run will help raise money for the Critically Endangered Sulawesi crested macaque Credit: Patrick Bolger
Irish Independent
25-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
What to watch on TV and streaming today: The Zoo, Being the Ricardos and Carlos Alcarez
The Zoo RTÉ One, 8.30pm We're returning to Dublin Zoo for a new eight-part series. There's reason to celebrate when Nyala the southern white rhino gives birth to another baby. But the staff also receive a devastating blow due to a long-term resident's death. Austin BBC One, 9.30pm Julian desperately needs the documentary about his growing relationship with Austin to be a success, but will hiring an award-winning director help? Punchestown Festival Preview 2025 TG4, 9.35pm Denis Kirwan gives viewers the lowdown on the Punchestown Irish National Hunt Racing Festival, which begins on April 29. Being the Ricardos RTÉ2, 9.40pm Comedy-drama starring Nicole Kidman and Javier Bardem as Lucille Ball and her first husband, bandleader Desi Arnaz. The film shows them juggling the recording of an episode of their sitcom I Love Lucy with various personal crises. Battle Camp Netflix, streaming now When you think about it, there are more reality TV stars headbanging about needing something to do now more than ever — mostly thanks to Netflix. Fret not, for the good people behind the platform have devised yet another show for them to partake in. In Battle Camp, Netflix's biggest stars from its reality and docu-series line-up face the ultimate test of physical and mental endurance. With all of them at the mercy of a giant spinning wheel that decides their fate, these famous(ish) faces must try to avoid it by mastering high-octane challenges, enduring punishing trials, and winning over their campmates, who each hold the power of the vote. The one who masters all three earns the title of ultimate Netflix reality champion and a $250,000 prize. Think I'm a Celebrity by way of Big Brother, with familiar faces from The Mole and Squid Game: The Challenge. Bullet Train Explosion Netflix, streaming now Featuring Tsuyoshi Kusanagi and hyperrealistic graphics, Shinji Higuchi's reimagining (like Speed but on a Tokyo train) delivers dramatic suspense in spades. A Tragedy Foretold: Flight 3054, which explores the aftermath of the 2007 Congonhas Airport tragedy, is also streaming now. Carlos Alcaraz: My Way Netflix, streaming now The 2024 season showcases Carlos Alcaraz, both on and off the court, as he transforms the world of sports. Race for the Crown Netflix, streaming now Watch the champers flow as this rollicking documentary series tails (apologies) jockeys, trainers, and owners as they chase titles and triumph in the Triple Crown of thoroughbred horse racing. Secrets of The Penguins Disney+, streaming now In three innovative episodes, cinematographer Bertie Gregory uses cutting-edge technology and scientific collaboration to depict the unique qualities of penguins: perseverance, inventiveness and camaraderie. Also available on Netflix is Pangolin: Kulu's Journey, from the Academy Award-winning director of My Octopus Teacher. iHostage Netflix, streaming now Inspired by the 2022 hostage crisis at Amsterdam's Apple Store and directed by Bobby Boermans, this dramatic reinactment is seen through the lens of the attacker, the hostages, and the first responders. Leverage: Redemption Prime Video, streaming now Once again, the Leverage Crew are back to support the underdog! This season, they tackle a power broker making money off stolen water, a despotic small-town mayor, and a pool hustler engaging in international extortion. The Not Very Grand Tour Prime Video, streaming now Reflecting on their time spent racing muscle cars in Detroit, Richard Hammond and James May (no Clarkson) pay tribute to the internal combustion engine — from the confines of a studio spliced with retrospective snippets. Also landing is animated offering #1 Happy Family USA. Oklahoma City Bombing: American Terror Netflix, streaming now The most deadly act of domestic terrorism in US history, the 1995 bombing of a federal facility in Oklahoma City (in which 168 people, including 19 children, were killed), is revisited in this stark documentary from the makers of Waco: American Apocalypse.
BreakingNews.ie
24-04-2025
- General
- BreakingNews.ie
Dublin Zoo announces death of orangutan Leonie who lived at the zoo for over 40 years
Management at Dublin Zoo have stated that they are 'deeply saddened' to announce the passing of Leonie, their 'much loved' 44 year old female Northwest Bornean orangutan. Staff onsite say that Leonie was at the heart of their orangutan family for over 40 years following her arrival from Rotterdam Zoo in 1984. Advertisement Dublin Zoo team leader Ciarán McMahon, who first met Leonie in 1995 as a young zookeeper, stresses that it is hard to put in to words what she meant to all at the zoo. 'Leonie and her mate Sibu arrived from Rotterdam in 1984, and over the next forty years, she became not only a cornerstone of our orangutan group but, in many ways, the quiet and quirky matriarch of Dublin Zoo. "I had the privilege of watching her grow from a young adolescent into an extraordinary mother. She was incredibly intelligent, gentle, and wise. While she was loving towards all our keepers, she was known for having a soft spot for the male staff – a bit of a flirt, we used to say! "Her level of comprehension was astonishing. She would calmly observe the team and often mimic our behaviour. Orangutans are known for this, but Leonie's abilities were exceptional." Advertisement Mr McMahon said that Leonie mothered not only her own young but helped raise others in the troop with immense care and patience. 'She brought a sense of calm, comfort and quiet strength to the group. One moment that stays with me is how she instinctively stepped in to care for a young Mujur, when she needed a surrogate mother. Their bond remained incredibly strong ever since. "It's safe to say that Leonie was a character. Calm, confident, and adored by visitors and keepers alike. And then there was her famous fringe. Every morning, she would sit and groom it with the utmost care before she went about her day – a little ritual that made everyone love her even more. "The loss of her mate Sibu last year hit us all hard, but Leonie most of all. They had been inseparable companions for over forty years. She was always at her most content by his side, and his sudden passing undoubtedly affected her.' Advertisement He added that in recent months staff watched her health decline due to age-related issues which impacted her heart and breathing. 'Despite expert care, including consultation with human cardiac specialists, her condition worsened. With heavy hearts, we made the decision to let her go peacefully. "Leonie taught us more than we could ever teach her. She offered us an extraordinary insight into the intelligence and complexity of orangutans while always retaining her dignity and independence within the group.' Meanwhile, the Northwest Bornean orangutan is a critically endangered species. The current population estimate for this species is approximately 104,700. This number is anticipated to decline to 47,000 individuals by 2025. Major threats include habitat loss due to palm oil farming, illegal hunting, habitat fragmentation, and fires.
The Journal
24-04-2025
- General
- The Journal
Dublin Zoo announces the death of 44-year-old orangutan Leonie
DUBLIN ZOO HAS announced the death of its 'much-loved' 44-year-old orangutan Leonie. Leonie arrived with her mate Sibu to the zoo in 1984 from Rotterdam Zoo. Described as the 'quiet matriarch', Leonie took on the role of a surrogate mother for Mujur, a young female orangutan. Leonie's mate Sibu died last year. Dublin Zoo team leader Ciarán McMahon, who first met Leonie in 1995 as a young zookeeper, said that Sibu's death had hit the team hard, but Leonie harder. He said: 'They had been inseparable companions for over 40 years. She was always at her most content by his side, and his sudden passing undoubtedly affected her.' McMahon said that in recent months, Leonie's health had declined due to age-related issues. Despite care and even consultation with human cardiac specialists to discuss options for her health problems, which were affecting her heart and breathing, the zoo made the decision to 'let her go peacefully'. 'Her passing leaves a space that's hard to describe – for all of us, for our visitors, and especially for Mujur. We're now focusing on carefully planned introductions to ensure Mujur has companionship in the months ahead,' he said. Advertisement McMahon described the orangutan as being 'incredibly intelligent, gentle, and wise'. He said that her comprehension was 'astonishing', and she would often mimic the behaviours she observed from her keepers. He detailed her grooming of her 'famous fringe' and described her as being a flirt with a soft spot for male zookeepers. 'Leonie taught us more than we could ever teach her. She offered us an extraordinary insight into the intelligence and complexity of orangutans while always retaining her dignity and independence within the group,' McMahon said. 'From my first day working with her in 1995 to now, she has been a constant presence and a true highlight of my career.' The Northwest Bornean orangutan is a critically endangered species, with approximately 104,700 animals estimated to be remaining in a 2016 study. This number is expected to decline to 47,000 individuals by 2025. Major threats to the species include habitat loss due to palm oil farming, illegal hunting, habitat fragmentation, and fires. McMahon concluded: 'Leonie inspired millions to care about the survival of her species. We miss her already. And always will.' Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone... A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation. Learn More Support The Journal
