News Release
 
Contact: Sondra Katzen, Public Relations, 708.688.8351, sondra.katzen@czs.org
 
January 25, 2022                                     
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
 Note: Download photos at end of press release.

   

Brookfield, Ill. — Valentine’s Day isn’t always a time to remember the love we have for a significant other. At times, it brings on memories of a relationship that didn’t go so well despite all efforts. But, who’s to say those non-memorable moments can’t be celebrated too?

Brookfield Zoo is once again offering the opportunity to name a cockroach in honor of that not-so-special someone not in your life. For a minimum donation of $15, those who feel like they were scorned by an ex can name a Madagascar hissing cockroach after that former partner (or anyone) for Valentine’s Day.

In return, donors receive a “Certificate of Naming” that can be filled out and shared or hung on a wall for the holiday. First names only of unpleasant ex’s will be prominently displayed on the infamous Cockroach Naming Board outside Brookfield Zoo’s Hamill Family Play Zoo. For names to be included on the board, donation submissions must be completed by end of day on February 7. A week later on February 14, the board will be unveiled and photos of it will be posted on the zoo’s social media channels.

Then, there are those who have a fondness for the unappreciated insects that serve an important role in the ecosystem by recycling nutrients and are a good source of protein for many animals. Just click on that option when filling out the online form at CZS.org/NameACockroach2021. Proceeds support Brookfield Zoo.

Additionally, Brookfield Zoo has dozens of charismatic animals, including the Asian small-clawed otters; Brutus and Titus, 5-year-old African lions; and Heidi, a 6-year-old Bornean orangutan, available through its Animal Adoption program that would make the perfect Valentine’s gift for that special someone. For a minimum $35 contribution, the lucky recipient will receive a 5-inch by 7-inch color photograph of the selected animal, a personalized certificate of adoption, a species fact sheet, an Animal Adoption decal, and an invitation to the exclusive 2022 Animal Adoption summer event. Donations go towards the care of the selected species for one year.

A gift card carrying your name and Valentine’s Day message can accompany the gift. If purchasing online, to ensure regular mail delivery by February 14, orders must be received by February 1. To purchase an Animal Adoption package, visit Brookfield Zoo’s website at CZS.org/AnimalAdoption or call (708) 688-8341.

   
Photos--credit Jim Schulz/CZS-Brookfield Zoo
3331, 3345, 3391, 3406, and 3410: Madagascar hissing cockroach at Brookfield Zoo


About the Chicago Zoological Society
The mission of the Chicago Zoological Society is to inspire conservation leadership by engaging people and communities with wildlife and nature. The Chicago Zoological Society is a private nonprofit organization that operates Brookfield Zoo on land owned by the Forest Preserves of Cook County. The Society is known throughout the world for its international role in animal population management and wildlife conservation. Its Center for the Science of Animal Care and Welfare is at the forefront of animal care that strives to discover and implement innovative approaches to zoo animal management. Brookfield Zoo is the first zoo in the world to be awarded the Humane Certified™ certification mark for the care and welfare of its animals, meeting American Humane Association’s rigorous certification standards. The zoo is located at 8400 31st Street in Brookfield, Illinois, between the Stevenson (I-55) and Eisenhower (I-290) expressways and also is accessible via the Tri-State Tollway (I-294), Metra commuter line, and CTA and PACE bus service. For further information, visit CZS.org