Cleveland Metroparks Announces New Brand For Future

From Cleveland Metroparks: As Cleveland Metroparks continues to celebrate its 100 year history, changes are being made to prepare for the next 100 years. While Cleveland Metroparks Zoo has been committed to wildlife conservation for more than 20 years, the organization is now bringing that work to the forefront.

Opportunity exists to increase awareness of wildlife conservation efforts. Less than 50% of respondents to a recently conducted research study were aware of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo's conservation efforts; however, the majority feel conservation is important.

"We're passionate about our conservation work, but the most important thing is for the over one million annual guests who visit to be able to take action. They are the next generation of conservationists," said Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Executive Director Christopher Kuhar, PhD.

Further market research studies were conducted to better understand perceptions of Zoo wildlife conservation efforts, which led to creation of a new graphic identity and tagline.

"The new logo and tagline is emblematic of the Zoo's mission because it features wildlife that guests can connect with at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, as well as aligns with the animals supported by our conservation programs," said Kelly Manderfield, Cleveland Metroparks Chief Marketing Officer. "Through our website futureforwildlife.org, all guests are empowered to learn more and take action to secure a future for wildlife."

As Cleveland Metroparks Zoo looks to the future, it is expecting a new addition. Kibbibi, a 13.5-year-old eastern black rhino is expecting a calf. The pregnancy was confirmed by ultrasound in January and the new calf is expected to arrive early spring 2018. This pregnancy proves to be an important one for the species; of the 57 eastern black rhinos located in Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) zoos in North America, four were born in the past year.

Throughout Kibbibi's pregnancy, guests can share her journey with special, educational opportunities at the Zoo, including a special photo opportunity located at the rhino's habitat. Animals here at the Zoo connect with our guests and represent their wild counterparts - they are ambassadors for their species and for conservation - inspiring visitors to join us and work to protect wildlife around the world.

Listed as critically endangered, less than 750 eastern black rhinos remain in the wild due to poaching and habitat loss. People can help the Zoo secure a future for rhinos by supporting our efforts to reduce poaching and the illegal trade of rhino horn.

Image Courtesy Of Cleveland Metroparks