Kids of all ages can soon take a ride at Zoo Atlanta on some of the world's most endangered species. The Nabisco Endangered Species Carousel, opening in mid-November, will take zoo guests for a whimsical spin upon 42 hand-carved wooden animal figures. The ride will also feature a series of hand-painted murals depicting endangered mothers and babies in their natural habitats.

Taking riders back to the days of county fairs, cotton candy and marvelous merry-go-rounds, the Endangered Species Carousel will also remind guests of the importance of protecting the world's most endangered animals. Adorning the carousel will be colorful replicas of the cheetah, elephant, black rhino, Sumatran tiger, gorilla, giraffe and others. There will also be six chariots to accommodate up to six riders at time, including those who require wheelchairs.

The carousel will be located in the Children's Zoo and will be housed under a colorful pavilion for protection from the elements.

Zoo Atlanta is offering the 42 carousel figures for adoption for a fee of $500 each. The adoptive parent's name will be displayed on a brass plate attached to the pole in the center of each figure. For adoption information, call 404-624-5809.

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Drill baboon mother Inge gave birth to her sixth offspring, a female, Sept. 24 at Zoo Atlanta. The baby, named Lucy, is doing well under her mother's care. Father Adonis, who also sired the five previous offspring, and Inge and both 11 years old and have been together since their arrival nine years ago. The entire family resides with a group of mona monkeys in the "Monkeys of Makokou" exhibit in the zoo's Ford African Rain Forest.

Drills are the most endangered species of African primates. Working to promote drill conservation is one of the zoo's top priorities. Zoo Atlanta is one of only three zoos in the U.S. with a drill collection, and has the only breeding pair in the country. The births at Zoo Atlanta are extremely significant because the babies have been mother-reared. Drills, like many primates, learn survival techniques and natural behaviors, including how to care for their young, from their parents.

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