October 2010 | Cologne/Köln 53 Dvůr Králové and WAZA‑branded­ Rhino Conservation Projects

Dana Holečková – Director, Dvůr Králové Zoo

Preface Reintroduction of the eas‑ (D. b. longipes) was exterminated by tern black rhino (Diceros bi‑ 2006 (see Table 2), while the eastern Founded in 1946, Dvůr Králové Zoo cornis michaeli) to Mkomazi, black rhino (D. b. michaeli), occurring has been specialising in keeping and Tanzania, WAZA Conserva‑ only in Kenya and Tanzania, became breeding African wildlife. Throughout tion Project No 080013 the most vulnerable form. While the 1970s, the zoo imported a number Kenya was home to 20,000 rhinos of mammal and bird species within still in 1970, in the 1980s the numbers several expeditions, fundamental for The development of the dropped to less than 350 individuals unique collections established later. black rhino population in the (Table 3). Tanzania had in 1995 a mere Dvůr Králové Zoo is the world’s most wild: brief summary 32 animals, which in fact involved two successful breeder of giraffes, a num- localities – the Ngorongoro crater ber of antelope and zebra species In 1900, there ranged several hun- and Serengeti National Park (Table 4). and African wild dogs, as well as black dred thousand black rhinos (Diceros that were successfully bicornis) in Africa. Within 22 years In Kenya, first fenced rhino conser- reproduced in the fifth generation in (1970 to 1992), 96% of wild popula- vation areas were founded in the captivity for the first time around the tion of this species was extirpated, late 20 century, which subsequently world, plus is the only captive institu- particularly as a result of poaching became strongholds of the species tion where northern white rhinos (see Figure 1 and Table 1 for more and inspiration for Tony Fitzjohn’s have been born and raised in captivity details). Of the four subspecies, one idea to restore the population of the successfully. The zoo has returned black rhino in northern Tanzania in over 100 Cape buffalos, several doz- the Mkomazi Reserve. ens of roan antelopes and multiple sable antelopes, scimitar‑­ horned oryxes and addaxes back to the wild Figure 1: DevelopmentFigure 1: Development of the wild blackof the rhino wild populationblack rhino since popul 1960ation since 1960 within the recent 20 years. With  48 (17.31) rhinos of three species and four subspecies, Dvůr Králové follows Development of the wild black rhino population since 1960 San Diego Wild Animal Park in terms of numbers of rhinos held and bred in 100000 captivity. With a total of seven rhinos 90000 relocated to Africa under two projects within a single year, which is a record 80000 number in terms of zoo community 70000 involvement in rhino conservation, Dvůr Králové has been striving to 60000 fulfil one of the key missions of mem- Numbers 50000 bers of the World Association of and Aquariums in a very pro­‑active 40000

manner. 30000

In 2009, Tanzania and Kenya became 20000 target countries within two rhino 10000 conservation operations completed by Dvůr Králové branded as WAZA 0 conservation projects. 1960 1970 1980 1984 1987 1991 1992 1993 1995 1997 1999 2001 2003 2005 2008 Year  54 Proceedings of 65th Annual Conference

Table 1: Development of the black rhino population in the wild Table 1: Development of the black rhino population in the wild Year 1800 1900 1960 1970 1980 1984 1987 1991 1992 1993 1995 1997 1999 2001 2003 2005 2007 Numbers Over 1 Several Over 65,000 14,785 8,800 3,665 3,450 2,475 2,300 2,410 2,600 2,700 3,100 3,610 3,750 4,230 million hundred 100,000 thousands

Table 2: Development of the black rhino population in the wild, 1984–2008 Table 2: Development of the black rhino population in the wild, 1984-2007 Species (subspecies) / Year 1984 1993 1997 1999 2001 2003 2005 2007 South-western (D. b. bicornis) 737 560 740 740 943 1,310 1,221 1,550 Eastern (D. b. michaeli) 490 500 485 485 498 520 639 700 South-central (D. b. minor) 1,467 1,300 1,365 1,365 1,651 1,770 1,866 1,995 Western (D. b. longipes) About 10 40 10 About 10 8 5 0 ? 0 Black (Diceros bicornis) 2,704 2,400 2,600 2,700 3,100 3,610 3,726 4,240

Table Table3: Development 3: Development of the black rhino of population the black in Kenya rhino since 1968abundance in Kenya since 1968 Year 1968 1970 1977 1980 1984 1987 1991 1992 1995 1997 2002 2003 2005 2007 2008 Numbers 11,000 2,500 1,800 1,500 550 381 398 414 420 424 430 437 539 577 609

Table 4: Development of the black rhino population in Tanzania since 1970 Table 4: Development of the black rhino abundance in Tanzania since 1970 Year 1970 1980 1984 1987 1991 1992 1995 1997 1999 2001 2003 2005 2007 Numbers 10,000 3,795 3,130 275 185 ? 127 32 46 47 49 66 101 123

Table 5: BlackBirths rhinosin the blackborn rhinoand aborted at Dvur in Kralove Dvůr Králové Zoo prior to 30 November 2010 (M - male, F - Brief history of the female) DK Sex Name Conceived Birth Dam Sire Comments eastern black rhino stock 1 F Elvira DK 1 20 Jul 1976 2 Oct 1977 Elsa Ken at Dvůr Králové Zoo 2 F Sali DK 2 15 Apr 1977 5 Jul 1978 Sabi Ken 3 M Jimm DK 3 6 Dec 1977 18 Mar 1979 Jimmi King The Dvůr Králové black rhino breed- 4 M Eli DK 4 20 Feb 1983 15 May 1984 Elvira Isis 5 F Jessi DK 5 4 Aug 1983 8 Dec 1984 Jimmi Isis ing history began with wild­‑caught 6 M Sado DK 6 21 Apr 1985 26 Aug 1986 Sali Isis juvenile animals coming from Kenya 7 M Jos DK 7 13 Feb 1988 21 May 1989 Jimmi Isis 28 kg in 1971, with first ten (4.6) animals 8 F Sany DK 8 28 Jun 1988 1 Oct 1989 Sali Isis 9 F Eimi DK 9 29 May 1989 24 Aug 1990 Elvira Isis imported from Tsavo National Park, 10 M Jacob DK 10 8 Apr 1990 23 Jun 1991 Jessi Eli from which a pair was supplied to 11 M Jasper DK 11 11 Jun 1990 13 Sep 1991 Jimmi Isis Florida (USA) one year after. In 1974, 12 F Sara DK 12 22 Nov 1990 24 Feb 1992 Sali Jimm 13 F Etna DK 13 21 Sep 1991 8 Dec 1992 Elvira Jimm additional trio (1.2) was imported 14 F Jaga DK 14 1 Sep 1991 14 Dec 1992 Jarca Jimm 26 kg on day 2 from Kenya; in the same year, 4 (2.2) 15 F -- DK 15 8 Feb 1993 11 Apr 1994 Jimmi Mabu stillborn, 24 kg animals left to Wroclaw (Poland), 16 M Sauron DK 16 16 Jul 1993 26 Oct 1994 Sali Cody 48 kg on day 3 17 F Jiddah DK 17 17 Aug 1993 15 Nov 1994 Jessi Mabu 37 kg Zurich (Switzerland) and Lešná Zoo 18 M Jonas DK 18 2 Sep 1994 4 Dec 1995 Jarca Cody died - hand-reared in Moravia (CZ). 23 (10.13) individuals 19 F Elba DK 19 23 May 1995 5 Aug 1996 Eimi Cody became involved in reproduction. A 20 F Musso DK 20 25 May 1996 20 Aug 1997 Sali Jimm 21 F Jola DK 21 1 Jul 1996 25 Oct 1997 Jessi Mabu total number of rhinos born for the 22 F Jane Lee DK 22 4 Oct 1996 (?) 24 Jan 1998 Jimmi Isis entire holding period reached 36 23 F Salome DK 23 13 Oct 1998 25 Jan 2000 Sali Jimm (13.22) animals, of which three (2.1) 24 M Jeremy DK 24 16 Sep 1999 21 Dec 2000 Jessi Jimm 25 F -- DK 25 10 Jun 2001 24 Aug 2002 Eimi Sauron stillborn, 33 kg were born dead and 32 (11.21) calves 26 F Ema-Elsa DK 26 4 Aug 2001 2 Nov 2002 Elba Jimm reared successfully, which represents 27 F Deborah DK 27 5 Jun 2003 11 Nov 2004 Jiddah Jimm 97% rate of success of all live­‑born 28 F Maisha DK 28 20 Sep 2004 21 Dec 2005 Musso Isis 29 M Jamie DK 29 6 Oct 2004 2 Jan 2006 Jessi Sauron animals. During the most recent 10 30 F Etosha DK 30 17 Jun 2005 4 Sep 2006 Elba Jimm months, three females were born, the 31 M Jabu DK 31 7 Oct 2005 1 Feb 2007 Jola Isis last of which in September 2010. See 32 M -- DK 32 25 Aug 2006 22 Sep 2007 Jane Lee Mweru aborted on day 393, 29 kg 33 M Dzanty DK 33 10 Aug 2006 24 Nov 2007 Jiddah Jimm more details in Table 5. 34 F Eva DK 34 26 Jul 2008 8 Dec 2009 Elba Baringo 35 F Jasmina DK 35 3 Sep 2008 13 Dec 2009 Jessi Baringo 36 F Just Era DK 36 8 Jun 2009 21 Sep 2010 Jola Mweru Total 36 (13.23) calves of which 32 (11.21) were reared. October 2010 | Cologne/Köln 55

The Mkomazi The local black rhino management Translocation and adaptation black rhino project programme has been arranged under to living in the bush the auspices of the George Adamson As major rhino holders in Europe and African Wildlife Preservation Trust As the process of constructing the in the world, Dvůr Králové were con- and supported by diverse charities fencing and a six­‑section boma inside tacted as early as 2003 by Tony Fitz- and other kinds of wildlife conserva- the area allocated for Dvůr Králové john, the African wildlife conserva- tion organisations, including Suzuki rhinos was underway in Mkomazi, tionist and manager of the northern Rhino Club, Save the Rhino, TUSK Dvůr Králové were making crates for Tanzania’s Mkomazi Game Reserve, Trust and Swordspoint etc. the rhino transport, 500 kg each, and who was then searching for animals the young rhinos were trained for for his eastern black rhino reintroduc- Unfortunately, the Addo National the transport. In April, Tony Fitzjohn tion project. Located in north­‑eastern Park rhino population is inbred as it visited the zoo once again and the Tanzania, Mkomazi is a natural area had only 4 founders meaning that all transport preparation was discussed of 3,270 square kilometres. A part of the rhinos imported to Mkomazi are and agreed in details. From April the Tsavo ecosystem, it connects to related to each other as well, so add- on, the rhinos were getting familiar Kenyan Tsavo West National Park. As ing unrelated individuals was highly with their new keepers and trained Dvůr Králové animals contain genes desirable. Therefore, Tony Fitzjohn for closing within a confined area, of their ancestors that were largely paid a visit to Dvůr Králové as early as which imitated staying in the crate. In exterminated by poachers, they are 2003 in searching for suitable ani- addition, handling imitating admin- very important for the populations in mals. In October 2007, Dvůr Králové istration of sedatives was trained. the wild. personnel in cooperation with Back Aside from the Czech keepers, the to Africa, a charity represented by rhinos were attended by Berry White, Tony Fitzjohn is a friend and colleague its managing director Hamish Currie, a specialist keeper to stay with of fabled conservationist George visited Tony Fitzjohn who at the same the rhinos in Mkomazi for several Adamson. Manager of the George time re‑confirmed­ that Mkomazi months, and rhino veterinarian Dr Adamson Wildlife Preservation Trust, was interested in animals from Dvůr Pete Morkel, who was in charge of he has been dedicated to the wildlife Králové. A memorandum of under- transport arrangements and sedation conservation in East Africa, namely standing was signed on the site and of animals both throughout and after to the critically endangered African the project preparation phase started. the transport. Berry has had work wild dog and black rhino. Supported In June 2008, a meeting took place experience as rhino head keeper in by donors, Tony built facilities in the in Cape Town, where translocation Port Lympne for seven years. Having Mkomazi Game Reserve where he has of 2 males and 1 female born at Dvůr moved several hundred black rhinos, been breeding and releasing African Králové Zoo to Mkomazi was agreed. Pete Morkel is a specialist dedicated wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) since the In the autumn 2008, the Mkomazi to conservation and translocation of early 1990s. In addition, he initiated black rhino reintroduction plan was these animals. In addition, he man- the process of preparation for reintro- endorsed by the EAZA Black Rhino aged the translocation of the rhinos duction of the eastern subspecies of EEP and an application was sent to from South Africa’s Addo National the black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis the World Association of Zoos and Park to Mkomazi. Both these experts, michaeli) into the reserve by building Aquariums to include the programme accompanied by Jan Zdarek, Dvůr the infrastructure within the reserve within their branded projects, which Králové rhino keeper, were attending including fencing for the rhino area was accepted and the initiative was the rhinos all over their journey that that covers 45 sq km. He obtained assigned project number 080013. began on 27 May. first two rhino pairs through import- In the late 2008, Mkomazi Game ing from South Africa’s Addo National Reserve was declared national park The move was started by placing the Park as early as 1997, which was fol- within TANAPA framework, as it be- animals weighing 850 to 1,100 kg lowed by bringing additional two pairs came a third locality in Tanzania with into their crates. Afterwards, they in 2001. All the four cows have already ranging eastern subspecies of the were transported in trucks from Dvůr bred in Mkomazi, with a total of five black rhino, despite some 150 to 250 Králové nad Labem to Amsterdam calves born; the most recent rhinos rhinos Mkomazi hosted back in 1968 over the distance of thousand kilome- were born in February 2009 and July that were however poached with tres. To make sure the animals are not 2009, respectively. only four individuals recorded in 1974. exposed to overheating and traffic The last wild rhino was observed in jams on highways, the transport took In Mkomazi, the rhino area is protect- Mkomazi in 1985. place at night. With many Dutch ed by an electrified fence (New Zea- press people present (the transport land type) powered by solar cells and was funded by the Suzuki Dutch guarded by armed patrols on 24-hour general importer via Suzuki Rhino basis; the fence is alarmed so any Club), the crates weighing 1.5 tons invading is made known very quickly. were loaded on pallets and into the There are logged strips around the airplane that took off for its 7,000 km facility to prevent potential fires to long flight around 9 pm. The Marti- spread. nair plane landed at the Kilimanjaro 56 Proceedings of 65th Annual Conference

Airport, Tanzania, at 8.30 am. Once in the enclosure of 120,000 sq m (400 m The existing Mkomazi black rhino Tanzania, the rhinos were transferred × 300 m). Deborah is now sexually population contains 13 (5.8) individu- in trucks to Mkomazi National Park mature and has periodical oestrus. At- als, with female Charlie now expected almost 200 km far away. tempts of mating this female by male to be pregnant. An overview of black Jamie were underway back in Dvůr rhinos reintroduced and their prog- The young rhino triplet included a Králové in summer 2008, although the eny in Mkomazi is provided in the nearly 5-year­‑old female Deborah male was still very young. In Mkomazi, Table 6. (DK 27), a 3–5-year­‑old male Jamie the first attempt was observed on 26 (DK 29) and a 2.5-year­‑old male Jabu June, which was one month after the (DK 31). While Jamie is already a gen- arrival of the rhinos. Acknowledgments eration 4 in captivity, Deborah and Jabu even represent a generation five. As of the autumn 2009, with rainy Dvůr Králové has partnered with the season starting in Mkomazi, the following institutions to implement No animal can be released into the entire area went green and the rhinos the project: Mkomazi National Park, wild immediately once translocated to from the Czech Republic stopped Back to Africa, Suzuki Rhino Club, The a new area. The rhinos were going to showing interest in extra food. Any George Adamson Wildlife Preserva- slowly adapt to their boma, with sub- attempts to find the animals were tion Trust, Ministry of Environment sequent enlargement of the area by only successful using transmitters of the Czech Republic, Severočeské natural enclosures. The boma consists that were renewed in all the three doly, European Wildlife Conservation of six sections, 15 by 15 m each, with rhinos by Pete Morkel in March 2010. Foundation, Natura Viva, Save the two sections available for each rhino Rhino International & Tusk Trust. and is located in the area with ranging The main rhino sanctuary was ex- wild rhinos that arrive at night. tended by a further 5 sq km in order Last but not least, thanks must go to to prepare for a growing population. other rhino captive breeders as: Gradual shift to a different diet is This was a massive undertaking in also inevitable, so the animals were that it took over 2 years to put in the • The Czech rhino triplet originates accompanied with feedstuffs brought 9 km fence. With enough separation from a founder stock of 11 animals from Dvůr Králové plus were given areas, this new part made a small imported by diverse zoos from East food supplied by the George Ad- amount of breeding management Africa amson Wildlife Preservation Trust possible. In the near future, decisions • Jabu’s grandfather is Mabu born directly to Mkomazi, like alfalfa are to be taken on further actions and 1979 in Magdeburg, Germany hay, chestnuts, carrots and sweet possible transfers of other rhinos, in- • Deborah’s great­‑grandfather is Isis/ potatoes. First two weeks the rhinos cluding any putting Suzi – a Mkomazi­ Bubba born 1975 in Cincinnati, USA were attended by their zoo keeper ‑born young female – together with • Jamie’s grandfather is Cody born Jan Zdarek who was later replaced by Jamie a Deborah. 1975 in Taronga Sydney, Australia Berry White. By the end of the week 1, female Deborah was introduced to male Jabu as this pair had been Table 6: Overview of the Mkomazi black rhino reintroduction project prior to 31 December 2009 already used to spend several hours Table 6: Overview of the Mkomazi black rhino reintroduction project prior to 31 December 2009 # Sex Birth Arrival in Mkomazi & Sire/Dam Death Comments together in the zoo enclosure as well. Name previous location 1/1/MK/0 M Addo NP, RSA 1997 Wild-born 1st breeding male Jonah Addo NP, SA In the week 2 (9 and 10 June), all rhi- 2/2/MK/0 M Addo NP, SA 1997 Wild-born James Addo NP, SA nos were anaesthetised and notches 3/3/MK/0 F Addo NP, SA 1997 Wild-born 1st breeding female Rose Addo NP, SA were cut in their ears to make later 4/4/MK/0 F Addo NP, SA 1997 Wild-born 2nd breeding female identification possible. They were Charlie Addo NP, SA 5/5/MK/0 M Addo NP, SA 2001 Wild-born March 2006 Killed by Jonah and also fitted with horn­‑implanted Elvis Addo NP, SA Mkomazi James 6/6/MK/0 M Addo NP, SA 2001 Wild-born 6.2.2004 Paralysis; CNS problems transmitters. The treatment as such Badger Addo NP, SA Mkomazi including the anaesthetisation was 7/7/MK/0 F Addo NP, SA 2001 Wild-born 4th breeding female Lee Addo NP, SA carried out by Dr Pete Morkel. 8/8/MK/0 F Addo NP, SA 2001 Wild-born 3rd breeding female Marina Addo NP, SA 9/0/MK/1 F May 2005 Bred in Mkomazi Rose/Jonah To be paired with Jabu At the break of week 3 and 4, the Suzi MK 1 Mkomazi NP 10/0/MK/2 M May 2006 Bred in Mkomazi Charlie/Jonah March 2008 Bitten to death by a snake rhinos were gradually accustomed Hashim MK 2 Mkomazi NP Mkomazi 11/0/MK/3 M May 2007 Bred in Mkomazi Marina/Jonah to the New Zealand type electrified Billy MK 3 Mkomazi NP fence, which encloses the entire area 12/0/MK/4 F February 2009 Bred in Mkomazi Rose/Jonah Daisy MK 4 Mkomazi NP for rhinos, and released from the 13/0/MK/1 F 11 Nov 2004 29 May 2009 Jiddah DK 5 / Paired with Jamie Deborah DK 27 Dvur Kralove Zoo Dvur Kralove Jimm DK 3 boma to a natural area of approxi- 14/9/MK/0 M 2 Jan 2006 29 May 2009 Jessi DK 5 / Paired with Deborah mately 45 × 40 m. Jamie DK 29 Dvur Kralove Zoo Dvur Kralove Sauron DK16 15/0/MK/1 M 1 Feb 2007 29 May 2009 Jola DK 21 / To be paired with Suzi Jabu DK 31 Dvur Kralove Zoo Dvur Kralove Isis 16/0MK/5 F July 2009 Bred in Mkomazi Lee/Jonah The next phase involved releasing Maggie MK 5 Mkomazi NP Jamie and Deborah into a large natural Explanatory notes: 11/0/MK/1: 11 – A running historical Mkomazi NP individual number 0 – A running number of import to Mkomazi NP enclosure (800 m × 400 m, i.e. 320,000 MK – Mkomazi NP acronym sq m), while Jabu was allowed into 3 – A running number of birth in Mkomazi NP October 2010 | Cologne/Köln 57

Last Chance to Survive – management of endangered species, Brief history of the white Northern White Rhino the initiation and support of commu- rhino population in the wild Conservation Project nity conservation and development programmes, and the education of The two white rhino subspecies met WAZA Conservation Project neighbouring areas in the value of vastly different fates over the past No 080013 wildlife, Lewa has become Kenya’s 100 years. The southern white rhinoc- leading model for wildlife conserva- eros (Ceratotherium simum simum) tion on private land, leading desti- was described in 1817, while for the Project partners nation for low impact conservation northern white rhino subspecies tourism, and leading catalyst for (Ceratotherium simum cottoni) the Dvůr Králové has implemented the conservation, and its direct benefits same occurred only in 1908. About project in partnership with the follow- for communities, across the region. 100 years ago, when the southern ing institutions: form was almost eradicated, the Back to Africa northern form was locally common Fauna & Flora International www.backtoafrica.co.za and abundant in savannas and sparse www.fauna­‑flora.org As the name of this non­‑profit conser- forest steppes in five Central African FFI protects threatened species and vation organisation founded in 1999 countries: Uganda, , Chad, Cen- ecosystems worldwide, choosing suggests, Back to Africa relocates tral African Republic and the Congo. solutions that are sustainable, based rare and endangered African wild- on sound science and take account life species from zoological institu- In the 1960s, the northern subspecies of human needs. Operating in more tions, thus providing a link between was still more common with some than 40 countries worldwide – mainly conservation programmes in the wild 2,250 animals than the southern in the developing world – FFI saves and captive breeders of African ani- form, with the latter consisting of just species from and habitats mals. Back to Africa have been Dvůr a single population in South Africa. from destruction, while improv- Králové Zoo partners since estab- Since then, the southern white rhino ing the livelihoods of local people. lished, with return of sable antelopes population grew and the subspecies Founded in 1903, FFI is the world’s into South Africa being their first joint was propagated to other regions, longest established international project, followed by reintroduction while for the northern form, there conservation body and a registered of roan antelopes to Swaziland and lived in 1984 the last remaining 15 charity. black rhinos to Tanzania. animals in Garamba National Park, Zaire (now the Democratic Republic Kenya Wildlife Service of the Congo). Just because of these www.olpejetaconservancy.org www.kws.org rhinos, the park was declared a World The Ol Pejeta Conservancy occupies A state corporation charged with the Cultural Heritage Site, with protec- approximately 360 square kilometres responsibility of conserving and man- tion of the rhinoceroses supported of African savannah within the Lai- aging wildlife resources within and by the International Rhino Founda- kipia District of Kenya and incorpo- outside protected areas in collabora- tion (IRF), USA, in particular. Despite rates the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee tion with stakeholders, Kenya Wildlife a slight increase to 31 individuals in Sanctuary. Laikipia carries large and Service’s goal is to work with others 1995, there was gradual decline in growing wildlife populations and to conserve, protect and sustain- the population due to civil wars and is home to almost 50% of Kenya’s ably manage wildlife resources. The poaching. black rhino population. The Ol Pejeta community wildlife program of KWS Conservancy works to conserve in collaboration with others encour- Thanks to international efforts, it was wildlife, provide a sanctuary for great ages biodiversity conservation by agreed in 2004 that some 10 remain- apes and to generate income through communities living on land essential ing northern white rhinos would be wildlife tourism and complementary to wildlife, such as wildlife corridors caught and relocated into the Ol enterprise for reinvestment in conser- and dispersal lands outside parks and Pejeta Conservancy, Kenya, where vation and community development. reserves. The premise is that “if peo- bomas were developed to accom- ple benefit from wildlife and other modate the animals following the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy natural resources, then they will take potential transport. Unfortunately, www.lewa.org care of these resources.” this never took place. Founded in 1995, the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy spans 62,000 acres and serves as catalyst for conserva- tion across northern Kenya. Lewa holds over 10% of Kenya’s black rhino population and the world’s single largest population of Grevy’s zebra. Through the protection and 58 Proceedings of 65th Annual Conference

Table 7: The numbers of the in the wild Table 7: The numbers of the white rhinoceros in the wild 1920 1960 1970 1981 1984 1993 1999 2003 2005 2008 Contrary to the southern white Southern form 110? 1500 2000 3150 3920 5700 8440 11320 14543 17480 Northern form 3000 2250 700 100 17 31 25 10 4 4 ? rhino numbers in the wild that have Total 3110 3750 2700 3250 3937 5731 8465 11330 14550 17484 recently bounced to some 19,000 in- dividuals, only a single northern white Table 8: Northern white rhinos kept in captivity prior to 31 December 2009 Table 8: Northern white rhinos kept in captivity prior to 31 December 2009 individual was seen in Garamba in the No Sex Stdbk # Born Date & place of arrival Death Comments course of a field survey done in 2007, & name 1 ? 1252 -- 1948 16 Jan 1949 Khartoum 17 Jan 1949 † Enteritis when 1-2 years old while none were found there in 2008 Southern Khartoum Sudan and 2009, making this form the rarest 2 M 15 1948 7 Apr 1950 Antwerp 13 Apr 1968 † When 20 years old rhino in the world, with perhaps a Paul Shambe, Sudan few individuals surviving in southern 3 F 16 1948 7 Apr 1950 Antwerp 7 Aug 1985 † When 37 years old Sudan (see Table 7). Cloe Shambe, Sudan 4 M 19 1950 Uganda 25 Jul 1955 London 25 Jun 1990 Euthanised for high age when Ben 27 Aug 1986 Dvur Kralove Dvur Kralove 40 years old In 2009, last eight remaining animals were held in captivity. This involved 5 F 290 1950 Uganda 25 Jul 1955 London 29 May 1964 † When 14 years old Bebe London males Sudan (36) and Suni DK 4 6 M 27 1952 Sudan 4 Sep 1956 Washington 2 May 1975 † When 23 years old Bill 22 Apr 1972 San Diego WAP (28) and females Nesari (37), Nabire San Diego WAP DK 6 (26), Najin DK 7 (20) and Fatu 7 M 28 1952 Sudan 4 Sep 1956 Washington 15 Mar 1979 † When 27 years old Lucy 22 Apr 1972 San Diego WAP DK 9 (9) at Dvůr Králové Zoo and San Diego WAP another pair kept at San Diego Wild 8 F 1123 -- 1963 Sudan 1 Apr 1964 Khartoum 2 Aug 1967 † When 4 years old Khartoum Animal Park, the USA, with female 9 M 54 -- 1963 1 Apr 1964 Khartoum 31 Dec 1965 Euthanised when 22 years old Shambe, 1 Jan 1965 Riyadh Riyadh Nola (37) owned by Dvůr Králové and Sudan loaned to the USA in 1989, and male 10 F 55 -- 1963 1 Apr 1964 Khartoum 31 Dec 1985 Euthanised when 22 years old Shambe, 1 Jan 1965 Riyadh Riyadh Angalifu owned by Khartoum Zoo, Sudan 11 F 75 1952 Sudan 28 Jul 1957 15 Aug 1974 † When 22 years old Sudan; this rhino was imported to Joyce St. Louis San Diego WAP the USA in 1990. 7 Aug 1972 San Diego WAP 12 M 74 1952 Sudan 28 Jul 1957 28 Jan 1991 † When 39 years old Dinka St. Louis San Diego WAP 7 Aug 1972 Brief history of the captive San Diego WAP 29 Jan 1980 northern white rhino stock San Diego WAP 26 Oct 1972 San Diego WAP The northern white rhino form was 13 M 347 -- 1968 1 Apr 1970 Khartoum 16 Jan 1978 † When 10 years old Shambe, Khartoum rather rare in captivity, as accord- Sudan ing to the International Studbook 14 F 345 Tofacha 1970 Sudan 1972 Khartoum 12 Sep 1978 † When 8 years old 1 Jan 1973 Al Ain information, a mere 22 animals Al Ain 15 M 348 Angalifu 1972 1 Mar 1973 Khartoum 2008 - probably a non- (10 males, 11 females, 1 animal with Shambe, 12 Aug 1990 San Diego breeding animal (sperm sex not determined) were imported Sudan WAP collected by IZW Berlin) 16 F 351 1965 Uganda 1 Jul 1971, Knowsley, 26 Aug 1992 1st breeding female to zoological parks from the wild in Nasima Prescot Dvur Kralove Collapsed in shock when 27 27 Aug 1977 Dvur Kralove years old 1948–1975 (see Table 8). Except for 17 M 373 1972 19 Sep 1975 Dvur Kralove 14 Aug 2006 1st breeding male the last imported group, this mostly Saut Shambe, 13 Oct 1989 Dvur Kralove 1989-1998: on loan at San Sudan San Diego WAP Diego WAP involved pairs that however never 15 Jul 1998 Dvur Kralove †Heart failure - 34 years old 18 M 372 1973 19 Sep 1975 Dvur Kralove 2nd breeding male reproduced, with captive breeders Sudan Shambe, 20 December 2009 Ol Loaned to Kenya being the zoos in Antwerp (Belgium), Sudan Pejeta, Kenya 19 F 375 1973 Sudan 19 Sep 1975 Dvur Kralove 4 Jan 1982 Collapsed due to trauma London (the UK), Washington, San Nuri Dvur Kralove when 9 years old Diego and St. Louis (the USA), Riyadh 20 F 377 1972 19 Sep 1975 Dvur Kralove Uterus tumour - non- Nesari Shambe, breeder (Saudi Arabia) and Khartoum (Sudan). Sudan 21 F 374 1974 19 Sep 1975 Dvur Kralove Loaned to WAP in 1989, Khartoum Zoo held 4 individuals Nola Shambe, 13 Oct 1989 San Diego where mated in 1995 Sudan WAP Found to be a non-breeding over time (2 pairs, including the male animal in 2008 due to Angalifu). Prescot Zoo imported a atrophic ovaries 22 F 376 1972 19 Sep 1975 Dvur Kralove 30 May 2007 Loaned to WAP in 1989 single female, Nasima, in 1971. This Nadi Shambe, 13 Oct 1989 San Diego WAP † When 37 years old Sudan San Diego WAP rhino and the pair held at London 23 F 476 1977 Reared in Dvur Kralove 20 Jun 2007 Intercrossed animal (NWR x Zoo, i.e. Ben and Bebe, were wild­ Nasi DK 2 Nasima / Arthur (Stdbk Dvur Kralove SWR) #355 – Knowsley, England) Mated in Knowsley England ‑caught animals from Uganda, while 24 M 630 1980 Reared in Dvur Kralove Loaned to Kenya Suni DK 5 20 December 2009 Ol the remainder of 19 (9.9.1) individuals Pejeta, Kenya were of Sudanese origin, of which 12 25 F 789 1983 Reared in Dvur Kralove Uterus tumour found in Nabire DK 6 Nasima/Sudan 2009 - non-breeder (7.5) came from the Shambe region. 26 F 943 1989 Reared in Dvur Kralove Loaned to Kenya The last of those imports from the Najin DK 7 Nasima/Sudan 20 December 2009 Ol wild was carried out in 1975, when Pejeta, Kenya 27 F 1122--- 18 Jul 1991 Reared in Dvur Kralove 18 Jul 1991 Aborted on day 296 Dvůr Králové Zoo brought a group DK 8 Dvur Kralove Nasima/Sudan Dvur Kralove of 6 (2.4) rhinos including two males 28 F 1305 29 Jun 1989 Reared in Dvur Kralove First F2 animal in captivity Fatu DK 9 Dvur Najin DK 7 / Saut Loaned to Kenya Kralove 20 December 2009 Ol Pejeta, Kenya [M - male, F - female; studbook numbers are assigned collectively to individual white rhinos regardless of the subspecies (bold- highlighted animals are still alive and a property of Dvur Kralove, except for Angalifu, i.e. #15)]. October 2010 | Cologne/Köln 59

Table 9: Northern white rhinos born in captivity, i.e. at Dvůr Králové Zoo Table 9: Northern white rhinos born in captivity, i.e. at Dvur Kralove Zoo (Bold: still alive) # Sex Name Birth Dam Sire Gestation Stdbk #/comments Conservation actions period 0. F Nasi 11 Nov 1977 Nasima Arthur ? 476 - fathered by SWR, subspecific hybrid, died in 2008 Preliminary discussions 1. M Suni 8 Jun 1980 Nasima Saut 503 days 630 2. F Nabire 15 Nov 1983 Nasima Sudan 485 days 789 and arrangements 3. F Najin 11 Jul 1989 Nasima Sudan 481 days 943 4. F - 18 Jul 1991 Nasima Sudan Abortion 1122, stillborn 5. F Fatu 29 Jun 2000 Najin Saut 482 days 1305 - captive generation 2 With both Dvůr Králové females getting older, discussion on potential benefits of relocation of the animals that subsequently reproduced on Change in the settings through into natural conditions was launched a repeated basis. Nasima who was sending three animals (male Saut and with AfRSG and Back to Africa repre- imported to the UK, more specifically, females Nadi and Nola), only 15 and sentatives. The same started at Dvůr to Knowsley Zoo, Prescot, became 17 years old, from Dvůr Králové to the Králové Zoo and within the Rhino the only breeding female. Other wild­ Wild Animal Park in San Diego, USA, Committee to the Union of Czech ‑caught animals never reproduced. in 1989. Despite repeated mating, and Slovak Zoos, with the move females never fell pregnant. subsequently recommended by the latter. In December 2007, a meeting Brief history of the northern Stimulation by feeding, light and of the African Rhino Specialist Group white rhino collection exposing to other rhinos, changes (AfRSG) to the IUCN was held in in Dvůr Králové in the group structure etc. After South Africa, discussing the offer of Saut returned from San Diego to Dvůr Dvůr Králové to supply the last fertile Dvůr Králové Zoo is the only zoologi- Králové in 1998, young female Najin animals held in captivity within a cal park in the world where northern got pregnant, giving birth to its single potential conservation project; at the white rhinos ever reproduced, with calf so far, female Fatu DK 9, which is same time, suitable locations were five pure northern white rhinos born at the same time world’s only north- selected, with Kenyan Ol Pejeta being including one premature calf, plus ern white rhino born in the second the best option and other two sites in a single southern/northern form generation in captivity. South Africa considered. hybrid, with however female falling pregnant at Knowsley Zoo, Prescot. Assisted reproduction efforts were In early 2008, results of examination The first pure northern white rhino launched in April 2001, which was of hormonal derivates from Najin and was born in 1980, with following also not successful. From 2001 to Fatu faeces confirmed the females animals born in 1983, 1989, 1991 and 2007, a total of 27 anaesthetisations were not pregnant following the most 2000. For the last calf, Najin DK 7 of the animals were carried out by recent artificial insemination. There- was the mother, while the remainder IZW Berlin, including 5 attempts at fore, the zoo decided to visit the po- was born to Nasima, the wild­‑caught artificial insemination, however with- tential destination, Ol Pejeta in Kenya, mother of Najin. More details: see out success. which was assumed to be the site Table 9. for relocated animals from Garamba A sad reality of figures was all what back in 2004. The visit however could Many years of breeding efforts. Dvůr has been ultimately left by the efforts not take place due to post­‑election Králové tested diverse ways to suc- mentioned above, with the entire civil unrests in Kenya. cessfully reproduce the northern form, population consisting of 4 captive­ which included their own programmes ‑born individuals and 4 born in the In June 2008, another location was or activities conducted in cooperation wild. visited – this time it was De Beers’ with the international breeding and Rooipoort Reserve, Kimberley, South conservation community: Even the captive southern form Africa. As the site was found particu- population would be subject to a slow larly suitable, conditions of potential Research in hormonal cycles was process of extinction being there partnership were agreed, including underway in Dvůr Králové from 1984: no imports of animals from the wild, the one requiring that the ownership the females were found to have since reproduction successes in the of the animals would remain with ceased cycling, and any efforts to white rhino as a species has been rare Dvůr Králové Zoo. change that failed except for Najin. It despite some particular breeding suc- was found that keeping the animals cess (San Diego, Whipsnade etc.) and In August 2008, the conservation of in a pair situation definitely does not cycle failure or absent cycles exist in the northern white rhino was also en- make difference in breeding perfor- the majority of females in captivity. couraged by UNESCO at this organi- mance and the same can be applied sation’s meeting in Quebec, Canada, to managing rhinos as a group. From calling on the Czech Government to today’s perspective, absence of natu- support the Dvůr Králové conserva- ral territorial and social behaviour tion project. seems to be the cause. 60 Proceedings of 65th Annual Conference

Scientific planning workshop At this meeting, the specialists came The only person objecting against the to a conclusion that any recent efforts move to Africa was Lars Versteege, In the meantime, preparations were in captivity have failed to result in White Rhino EEP coordinator, sup- underway for an international meet- sufficient reproduction performance porting an idea of repeated attempts ing of rhino experts invited to Dvůr and that there was no time for any at artificial insemination and reloca- Králové Zoo, with the meeting date further attempts in captive situation, tion of the animals to a different zoo, set to 3 September 2008. Invita- as biological time windows of the for instance the one that he worked tions were sent to representatives animals were closing too fast. Dvůr with, i.e. Safari Park Beekse Bergen, of the following organisations: Dvůr Králové’s rhino group was recognised where they had achieved a number of Králové Zoo, European Association and evidenced to be the only world’s southern rhino calves produced. of Zoos and Aquaria, EAZA Rhino herd able to breed, with 2 or maybe TAG, African Rhino Specialist Group 3 cows and 2 bulls being potential IZW Berlin were suggesting that (AfRSG) to the IUCN, Back to Africa, breeders. Consensus was reached in artificial insemination efforts should IZW Berlin, Veterinary University that moving these animals into the continue until the transport. The Vienna, International Rhino Founda- natural setting would potentially en- remainder of the participants was tion, World Association of Zoos and courage natural social and territorial opting for the move as the only real Aquariums, Ministry of Environment behaviour, essential for the remaining way forward, generally recommend- of the CR, Union of Czech and Slovak females to breed on a regular basis. ing to try making the females cycle Zoological Gardens, Parliament of again within the short time window the Czech Republic / Committee for DRC’s Garamba National Park before the transport, by either natu- Environment, Natural Science Faculty was still assumed to contain three rally or through artificial insemination, of the Charles University, Prague and remaining wild rhinos, which might noting that this should not pose any Frankfurt Zoo. considerably increase the chances of unduly delay of the move. the northern form to survive provided The objective of the meeting was to any such animals were found and AfRSG and Back to Africa representa- set the best way forward to save the integrated with captive rhinos, as tives invited Dvůr Králové to recon- northern white rhino. Representa- evidenced through genetic model- sider Ol Pejeta as an option, as the tives of Dvůr Králové Zoo, AfRSG, ling developed by ISIS and AfRSG Kenyan post­‑election situation was IZW, the White Rhino EEP and Veteri- specialists. already under control. At the same nary University Vienna informed the time, everyone was informed on the participants through their presenta- A place fully secure and free of poach- plans to survey Garamba National tions about historical data as well as ers and predators was a prerequisite Park with the intention to find any the existing status of the white rhino for any move of the animals from last remaining rhinos. in captive and wild situations, which captivity to the wild. A consensus was in particular included the breeding reached in that if sufficient numbers As a conclusion, the next project record of rhinos in Dvůr Králové, re- are achieved within 20-30 years, then steps were identified including search on captive white rhino cycles, a part of such population could be re- actions expected. A summary of situation of populations in the wild located to countries of former range, meeting presentations and conclu- and in captivity for both subspecies, provided secure and suitable areas sions was incorporated into the etc. are found there. Northern White Rhino Conservation Action Plan document. The operation Subsequently, a draft action plan Because the former range of the as such was branded by the World developed by Dvůr Králové Zoo was subspecies did not contain any safe Association of Zoos and Aquariums discussed at an expert level, including location, the Rooipoort Reserve of De as WAZA Conservation Project input documents and presentations, Beers in the Northern Cape Prov- No 08017. with particular actions presented ince, South Africa, was proposed as one by one and subjected to diverse a suitable site. De Beers have been Choosing the best site aspects. supporters of conservation projects for one hundred years, with ranches Follow­‑up to the workshop above reproducing many species of South was the meeting of Dvůr Králové Zoo Africa’s native wildlife, which can be Board in September 2008, where the very well evidenced through granting board members approved the steps the WWF­‑Lonmin Award for conser- proposed under the Action plan, as vation to Nicky and Strilli Oppen- well as the move of the animals to the heimers to recognise the funding of reserve in South Africa that had been conservation projects contributed by assessed as 100% secured site. De Beers and Oppenheimer family. October 2010 | Cologne/Köln 61

At the same time, the management A management committee consisting Available for the northern white rhino method was changed in the northern of representatives of Dvůr Králové are bomas and 400-hectare enclo- white rhino at the zoo in order to Zoo, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Back to sures surrounded on all sides by a induce hormonal cycles in females, Africa, FFI, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy fully electrified fence with monitoring which involved putting two females and Kenya Wildlife Service was estab- on a 24-hour basis plus strategically together with one male at a time and lished to oversee rhino management located watch­‑towers. Other secu- separating Najin from her daughter and care. rity features include horn­‑implanted Fatu. Female cycles were under moni- transmitters to enable intensive sur- toring; should any female started The move was officially supported by veillance and monitoring and security cycling, a male was at hand to enable the African Rhino Specialist Group patrols formed of 14 men under the mating. to the IUCN, UCSZ and a number supervision of senior management, of various specialists in the rhino with additional assistance by the In January 2009, Hamish Currie of conservation field, Prince William of security divisions of the Lewa Wildlife Back to Africa informed on increased Wales (a supporter of Ol Pejeta Con- Conservancy and Kenya Wildlife Ser- poaching in South Africa, suggesting servancy), Minister for Environment vice. The rhino enclosure is located in re­‑considering the Kenyan location of the Czech Republic, Czech Ambas- the centre of the conservancy, which (Ol Pejeta) as an option, this being sador in Kenya, the President of the itself is a fenced area of 61,000 hec- at the same time a recommendation Czech Committee for UNESCO and tares patrolled by a security team of of AfRSG to the IUCN. Based on the many others. over 80 guards on a 24/7 basis. information above, the Zoo Board de- cided to visit Kenya, which took place Ol Pejeta Conservancy Translocation including in February 2009. When visiting Ol pre‑arrangements­ and Pejeta, the project was discussed and Ol Pejeta Conservancy was identified acclimatisation conditions of cooperation approved. by AfRSG as the best option on the The zoo representatives also became basis of its very good climate and a In cooperation with IZW Berlin, familiar with Ol Pejeta operations and location close to the former range of female Nabire was examined in July reintroduction projects, as well as the subspecies. A high altitude area, 2009 and subsequently excluded from with rhino management and security Ol Pejeta lacks issues concerning the project as a non­‑breeding animal. situation in Kenya generally and in trypanosomiasis, which can be mortal Sperm was also collected from male Ol Pejeta in particular. The meeting for rhinos imported from the moder- Suni and sent to the Berlin­‑based participants included representatives ate climate. Kenya neighbours Sudan, sperm bank. Biological samples were of Dvůr Králové Zoo, Czech Parlia- where three northern white rhinos taken from all northern white rhinos ment’s Committee for Environment were observed in summer 2008 ac- for future use. All animals to be and Kenya Wildlife Service, as well cording to reliable evidence. In 2005, transported except for Sudan were as managers and other personnel of Ol Pejeta Conservancy was the site dehorned from safety reasons. Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lewa Wild- chosen for placing the last surviving life Conservancy, Back to Africa and animals from Garamba National Park, On Saturday, 19 December 2009 early Fauna & Flora International (FFI). DRC. Therefore, it is the best place in the morning, the process of crating for receiving any potential remaining and loading got underway in Dvůr The Zoo Board requested additional northern white rhinos from the wild Králové. Heaters were installed inside expert opinions on the project and in terms of both climate and politics. lorries as severe frosts were expected based on these the move of the rhi- The current governmental policy and during the day and each crate was nos to the new location in Kenya was rhino protection system are compre- fitted up with a tarpaulin covering the approved. A memorandum of under- hensive enough to provide maximum ventilation holes so that the animals standing was signed in June, contain- guarantee for security of the animals, were kept under a temperature of ing the following project objectives: with additional fenced and guarded 16 °C. The animals were accompanied area inside the reserve. by experienced specialists, including • To induce normal and periodical keeper Jan Zdarek and veterinar- breeding in the Dvůr Králové ani- Ol Pejeta represents 25,000 hectares ian Dr Jiri Vahala on behalf of Dvůr mals that were still able to repro- of a habitat located near the original Králové Zoo, Berry White and South duce, in a secure place in the wild. range of the northern white rhino. African veterinarian Dr Pete Morkel, a • To develop maximum efforts to in- This institution has experience of rhino translocation expert. A national tegrate the captive animals with last rhino reintroduction and contains traffic police escort (Traffic Police remaining northern white rhinos in the largest black rhino population of the Czech Republic) ensured a the wild if any are found. If not, to in East Africa counting 81 individu- smooth passage for the convoy as far produce pure northern white rhinos als, plus manages 11 southern white as the airport. The aircraft with rhinos as well as intercrossed offspring to rhinos. Ol Pejeta has a consistent and took off at 6 pm and landed at the preserve the genes of the northern effective system of patrols to prevent Nairobi airport on 20 December 2009 white rhino, where adding southern any poaching attempts on the rhino white rhino females was recom- populations. mended to induce normal social and territorial behaviour. 62 Proceedings of 65th Annual Conference

in the early morning. From Nairobi, Rhino translocation is costly, par- Conclusion the transport continued as far as Ol ticularly between continents, but the Pejeta Conservancy by trucks. The fundraising efforts for this translo- Dvůr Králové sent to Africa as part of rhino convoy reached the place of cation do not aim to compete with conservation projects seven rhinos final destination following 26 hours other recognised rhino conservation within a single year, which would and the animals were uncrated and priorities. What’s more, if the origi- not be possible in a small country in entered their bomas on 20 December nal transport of the northern white the middle of Europe being there no at 2 pm CET. rhinos from Sudan to Czechoslovakia dedicated partners as well as genera- had not been done and paid by Dvůr tions of keepers. The Dvůr Králové Zoo keepers stayed Králové Zoo in 1975, there would be on the site with rhinos five weeks no animals left to save and these The black rhinos were literally sent to after the translocation, while Berry rhinos could even never obtain this the land of their ancestors, returning White spent several months there. last chance to survive. into what can be called promised land, Veterinarian Peter Morkel was and i.e. their native habitat, with the be- will be available to oversee the For basic information and facts as lief that the Mother Nature thereby animals on an ongoing basis as they well as updates, please visit project gets what we humans owe to her. are getting adapted to living in the micro site: www.northernwhiterhino- bush, which is going to last for one to lastchance.com I believe that both sites can provide a two years and include training for the permanent home for our rhinos and electrified fence as well as adapting that any future offspring of these will to natural diet and large enclosures Acknowledgments help Dvůr Králové fulfil the modern that will be enlarging with time. zoo mission totally in compliance In addition to the partners mentioned with the strategy of WAZA. I had the As early as January, the rhinos were earlier, a number of supporters and opportunity of testing in person that released in their first natural enclo- funding institutions must be applaud- the animals were translocated to the sure. At the end of April, the females ed for their appreciated help. best possible habitat. were put together with male Sudan and the male and female Najin sub- AfRSG to the IUCN, Kenya Wildlife I feel happy that we gave the north- sequently transferred into a breeding Service, Kenyan Ministry for Environ- ern white rhinos their last chance, area of 300 hectares, with southern ment, Czech Embassy Kenya, Czech that they live in conditions that are white female and two calves added to Ministry of Environment, Czech believed to establish a normal female the pair. Committee for UNESCO, Environ- reproductive behaviour, and that the mental Committee of Czech Parlia- worldwide interest in this project Fatu is kept with male Suni in an ment, IZW Berlin & Vienna University, turned public attention to the protec- enclosure of 8 hectares. As faecal BBC, National Geographic, Lemuria tion of the entire taxon. examination results and female’s TV & Czech TV, Matsarol Foundation, behaviour have shown, Fatu has Australia; Whitley Animal Protec- Even though four last remaining slowly begun to cycle, with first signs tion Trust, Prince Bernhard Fund for animals may be unable to guarantee of interest in mating recorded in early Nature, The Chadramohan Fam- survival of a species, promoting con- October 2010. ily Foundation (Zoomungus World servation as such is something that Foundation), Tudor Investments (Paul they can. A journey was taken to southern Tudor Jones), Montague­‑Panton Sudan in March 2010 and it really Charitable Trust, Ministry of Environ- seems that there are still a few rhinos ment, Czech Republic; DHL Supply References alive. The next step planned is to Chain, The Daphne Sheldrick Wildlife build a large fenced area for Fatu and Trust, Natura Viva Dvůr Králové n. L. • HOLECKOVA, D., 2009: Breeding Suni and additional southern white & Severočeské doly endangered species at Dvůr Králové females. In order to identify the ef- Zoo, Volume 3: Rhinos. Dvůr Králové fects that the change in environment Special thanks for both projects Zoo, Dvůr Králové nad Labem. might have on the females, monitor- ing of hormonal activity based on • The team of Dvůr Králové Zoo, in their faeces is still in progress, with particular animal management staff samples collected and frozen twice and veterinarians a week as well as earlier at the zoo • Dvůr Králové Zoo Board of Directors and then examined at the University & Supervisory Board of Vienna to determine whether the • The World Association of Zoos and females cycle and ovulate or not and Aquariums for your support check for any pregnancy. October 2010 | Cologne/Köln 1

Biodiversity is Life

Proceedings of the 65th Annual Conference Technical Congress 18–19 October 2010 Hosted by Kölner Zoo 2 Proceedings of 65th Annual Conference Table of Contents

Welcoming address by the Host...... 3 Letting the Cat Out of the Bag: Genetic Effects of Ex situ­‑Conservation in the European Welcome by the Mayor Wildcat (Felis silvestris)...... 63 of the City of Köln (Cologne)...... 4 India’s Initiative in Ex­‑situ Wildlife Conservation...... 64 “Joined­‑up Conservation”: Addressing Native Welcome Address on behalf of the German Species Declines in Western Australia...... 67 Federal Minister for the Environment, Nature Developing Conservation Strategies Conservation and Nuclear Safety...... 5 for the Armenian Viper...... 70 An Overview and Evaluation Welcome to the Region...... 7 of WAZA Conservation Projects...... 72 Breeding, Research & Conservation Welcome Address by the WAZA President...... 9 of Tropical Herpetodiversity: Linking ex situ with in situ Approaches...... 73 Zoo Personnel Serving an IUCN Specialist Group: Keynote Addresses...... 11 An Introduction to the Northeast African Subgroup Saving Biodiversity – Key Messages in the of the Antelope Specialist Group...... 78 International Year of Biodiversity 2010 and the Roles Zoos’ Role in Conserving the Diversity of of WAZA and the UNEP Convention a Small Taxon – from the Perspective of the on Migratory Species...... 12 Bear Specialist Group...... 79 Biodiversity: The Sabah Rhino Project – Captive Breeding, Where Zoos Can Make a Difference...... 16 Habitat Protection and Habitat Reforestation ...... 83 Conserving Plant Diversity – Dysfunctional Zoos & What to Do?...... 84 the Role of Botanic Gardens and Zoos...... 19 Transportation of CITES-listed Species...... 91 How Do You Create A Zoo That Really Contributes Towards Biodiversity Conservation?...... 93 WAZA Congress Papers...... 23 Troubles in Paradise – Zoo Design for Conservation Education...... 97 The One Curator – One Species Challenge...... 24 Biodome – Biomimicry – Biodiversity...... 99 Re­‑thinking ex situ vs. in situ Species Conservation..... 25 Zoos and Conservation – the Frankfurt Example...... 102 Defining What It Means to Save a Species – Husbandry Success in Zoos: A Constant Aim The Species Conservation Program for Science and Practice...... 105 of the Wildlife Conservation Society...... 30 Where Are We Now? – Trends in Global Grants Building Sustainable Zoo Populations and for Wildlife Conservation...... 106 Connecting Zoo Populations to Field Conservation, Project MOSI A Report by the AZA Task Force on the Sustainability (Mosquito Onset Surveillance Initiative)...... 108 of Zoo­‑based Populations: Phase 1...... 32 The of the Chicago Zoological Society’s Center World Zoo’s Species ...... 109 for the Science of Animal Welfare...... 36 EAZA Conservation Campaigns: What Have The ISO’s International We Learned and Where do We Go from Here?...... 111 Workshop Agreement (IWA) ...... 38 Multiplication Effect Through Partnerships: Why Not Partner an African Zoo?...... 41 The Granby Zoo’s Experience...... 114 Public and Private Sector Collaboration to Preserve Biodiversity in Aviculture...... 42 The Value of Biodiversity and the Economics of Biodiversity Conservation...... 46 Beauval Conservation Program in Djibouti, “Back to Africa”...... 50 Back to Africa and Restorative Conservation, Pursuing the WAZA Conservation Strategy...... 52 Dvůr Králové Zoo and WAZA­‑branded Rhino Conservation Projects...... 53 October 2010 | Cologne/Köln 3 Welcoming address by the Host

Theo Pagel, Zoo Director & CEO – Cologne Zoo

Welcome to Cologne!

Dear WAZA members and guests, it is an absolute pleasure for me to wel- come you all on behalf of the board of Cologne Zoo and the whole staff to the 65th annual WAZA conference.

This year, in 2010, we celebrate our 150-year anniversary and are proud to host the WAZA meeting for the first time in our long history, to have colleagues from almost 40 countries around the world as guests. We will try our best to make you feel at home in our beautiful Zoo and our city full of culture and life!

Let us together make this confer- ence a successful one with a lot of © Ulrike Fox, WAZA fruitful workshops, discussions and Theo Pagel and Mark Penning at Kölner Dom. results. “Biodiversity is Life: the Role of Zoos and Aquariums in Biodiver- sity Conservation” is our conference topic. We are the experts in keeping and breeding animals, in teaching about the importance of the fauna, of biodiversity in general.

We all should use this meeting to be- come friends, close partners and take it as a chance to tell the people what we are doing.

I wish you all a fruitful, enjoyable and happy time in Cologne.

Yours