Habitat 64 - Winter 2021

18 Most people are familiar with human diversity, which includes not only physical characteristics, but social, cultural and communal aspects of who we are as individuals. Biodiversity, on the other hand, includes animals, plant life and the environment around us. Human diversity and biodiversity are inseparable and depend on one another for survival. The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) is well known for its care of animals (biodiversity), which requires a team of highly trained staff (human diversity). Zoo visitors typically want to see young, active animals while exploring the landscape; however, just like in human society, animals in the Zoo represent all age groups. The Detroit Zoo offers teachable moments for parents and educators around life cycles. Because of the life expectancy of different animal species, some animals are “old” even if it doesn’t seem like it in calendar years. For example, Bunny, a macaroni penguin, is the oldest living macaroni in the North American population and the oldest ever, living or deceased, in that population at only 39 years old. Even more notable is Chesley the anteater who is currently DIVERSITY the oldest living female in the North American population at just 25 years old. Both are great examples of the DZS’s expertise in animal care and our commitment to excellent animal welfare. Now you may be wondering, if those animals are considered old for their species, who is the oldest animal at the Zoo? The oldest animal at the Zoo right now is a female matamata turtle who was born in 1967 – making her 54 years old. The next two oldest are chimpanzees Trixi, 51, and Bubbles, 50. Following them is an Egyptian tortoise, 48, a Chinese alligator, 44, and several greater flamingos all estimated to be about 43. Finally, on the list of long- living animals is Ms. Baldy, a female Japanese macaque, who (at age 32) is currently the oldest living Japanese macaque in the North American population and the 12th oldest ever. So the next time you visit the Zoo with someone from a different generation than you, consider the lifespan of the animals around you. It makes for great conversations. *Special thanks to DZS Registrar Nancy Butler for her contribution and vast knowledge of animals and their life cycles. BY DR. DE’ANDREA MATTHEWS , DZS DIRECTOR OF DIVERSITY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT THE INTERSECTION OF BIODIVERSITY AND HUMAN DIVERSITY