All things wildlife
A RESOURCE GUIDE
An essential animal resource guide for today’s zoo and aquarium director Compiled by David Brady, Houston Zoo; Roger Germann, John G. Shedd Aquarium; Jo–Elle Mogerman, Chicago Zoological Society – Brookfield Zoo; Tommy Stringfellow, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden; and Bob Wiese, San Diego Zoo Global with assistance from AZA staff and committees.
Last Updated January 2015 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The All Things Wildlife Reference Guide was developed to better equip today’s zoo or aquarium director with high-level information about the unique aspects of successfully caring for, and managing, a living animal collection. The All Things Wildlife Reference Guide is designed to support every zoo and aquarium director, whether new to the zoological community or those that have been involved in the community for many years. We believe the All Things Wildlife Reference Guide is a resource every director will rely on throughout their career.
OVERVIEW
While many business operations, such as finance, human resources, communications, and even OSHA-related issues, translate throughout the business world, the management of a living animal collection requires special attention and a disciplined understanding of animal-related issues.
The five sections of theAll Things Wildlife Reference Guide focus solely on animal issues unique to the zoological community and include:
• Conservation Awareness: our community is mission driven with a focus on conservation
• Zoo and Aquarium Animal Regulatory Agencies: review of the primary laws and standards that guide animal care
• Animal Welfare: aspects of the collection’s health and daily care
• Sustainability of AZA Animal Programs: aspects of long-term population health; collaborative programs; and how we ensure animals for the future
• Public Perception: goodwill and a positive public perception are key to our future; hot topics (e.g., elephants, cetaceans, euthanasia); deaths of high profile animals
The All Things Wildlife Resource Guide is one of many Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) tools that are intended to ensure every director is successful in running their organization, especially when it comes to caring for and managing a living animal collection. And while the resource guide provides essential introductory information, we strongly encourage every director to use this guide as a foundation for having important discussions with your staff, as well as colleagues at other zoos, aquariums, and the association.
REFERENCES
• Appendix A defines all many of the regulatory agencies that govern impact zoos and aquariums.
• Appendix B contains a list of the many acronyms used by the zoo and aquarium industry.
• Appendix C contains a list of common terms commonly used in the zoo and aquarium industry.
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 3 CONSERVATION AWARENESS
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a community of zoological parks and aquariums united for the care and conservation of living things. For us, conservation means ensuring that all species can thrive in healthy ecosystems. Ensuring the wellbeing of other species is essential if we are to secure our own. The quality of our land, our air, and our water not only effects wild populations, but it ultimately will determine our fate as well. Zoos and aquariums are uniquely poised to contribute to successful species conservation. We care for extensive and diverse populations of living plants and animals, which attract large numbers of visitors who are delighted and inspired by the close experiences with nature we provide. And so our vision for AZA and the global community of zoos and aquariums is clear. AZA calls on all zoos and aquariums to adopt an integrated One Plan approach to conservation. We must make animal care and conservation our primary purpose and be guided by this purpose in everything that we do.
AREAS OF FOCUS AND VISION
• Creating a culture of conservation (including partnerships & politics)
»» Vision: A community that values wild animals and wild places, and will strive to ensure their future.
• Conservation of Wild Populations
»» Vision: The zoo and aquarium community will be a significant force and a recognized leader in wildlife conservation.
• Science and Research (including conservation medicine)
»» Vision: Serving the conservation and welfare mission of zoos and aquariums.
• Engagement – Influencing Behavior Change for Conservation
»» Vision: All zoos and aquariums are trusted voices for conservation and able to measurably engage and empower visitors, communities and staff to reduce threats to wildlife and save biodiversity.
• Population Management (including collection sustainability)
»» Vision: Zoos and aquariums will be centers of expertise in small population management, engaged in evidence–based conservation–breeding programs.
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 4 IMPORTANT INTERNAL NOTES
• Do not treat conservation as a separate business silo but fully integrate it into every aspect of the facility’s operation. Treat conservation like R&D in a major company and invest now for long–term rewards.
• Fundraising – Work with internal Development Department on how to leverage conservation to attract a new group of donors that would not normally support a captive wildlife facility.
IMPORTANT EXTERNAL RESOURCES
• The United Nations Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011–2020 — by far the strongest commitment ever made by the world’s governments to combat the escalating extinction crisis — includes 20 20 targets, collectively known as the Aichi Targets (https://www.cbd.int/sp/targets/).
• Mento – A fellow AZA director who could act as a “Conservation Buddy” to discuss the benefits of a strong conservation program, which are enhanced image, more donors and long–term sustainability of animals in your zoo/aquarium.
• Benchmarking – Visit another AZA facility that is a model conservation zoo so that they can see conservation in action.
• AZA and WAZA Initiatives – Receive a summary PowerPoint of the new SAFE program and the next version of WAZA Conservation strategy, WZACS 2015.
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 5 ANIMAL REGULATORY AGENCIES
Zoos and aquariums are regulated by various federal, state, county and local agencies. Regulations at the federal level are fairly consistent throughout the industry when it comes to overseeing animal management practices. Regulatory agencies at state, county and local municipalities tend to vary in jurisdiction as well as frequency and detail of oversight.
Due to variations in regulation authority and jurisdiction(s), it is highly recommended that you identify and discuss these agencies with your animal management staff as they will be more familiar with any interactions at this level. State and local regulatory agencies are structured differently depending on state and local laws.
Below is a list of federal agencies with which you should become familiar to better understand their impact on animal management as well as their oversight practices relating to zoos and aquariums. Penalties vary but can range from monetary fines up to imprisonment. Media outlets will find even minor violations as sources for leading stories and headlines.
• USDA–APHIS (US Department of Agriculture – Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service) – annual inspections of mammal enclosures, commissary and vet hospitals, ad hoc investigations
• US Fish & Wildlife Service – endangered species permits, CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) permits, Captive Bred Wildlife registrations, Wild Bird Conservation Act permits and Migratory Bird Treaty Act permits, permits to acquire, move and transport animals
• National Marine Fisheries Service – marine mammal public display permits, sharks, endangered species of fishes
• FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) – security of animals transported by air
• FDA (Food and Drug Administration) – interstate movement of some animals, drug applications
• CDC (Centers for Disease Control) – import of some animals, including non–human primates
• AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) – Accreditation takes place every 5 years with peer inspection. Non–compliance can lead to losing accreditation but no fines. Loss of accreditation can mean the loss of SSP Animals.
• EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) – Environmental impact, stormwater run–off with non– compliance, non–point source effluent
AZA Staff to assist with Federal Regulatory Agencies:
Steve Olson – VP of Federal Regulations, (301) 562–0777 x249 or [email protected]
Kris Vehrs – AZA Executive Director, (301) 562–0777 x229 or at [email protected]
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 6 ANIMAL WELFARE
WHY ANIMAL WELFARE?
• Ethical Responsibility as zoos and aquariums • Ensuring sustainability of the collection and a species • Positive relationship between animals engaging in species appropriate behavior and guest experience
WHAT IS ANIMAL WELFARE?
Animal Welfare refers to an animal’s collective physical, mental, and emotional states over a period of time, and is measured on a continuum from poor to thriving. Since we cannot ask an animal about its current state of welfare, we must examine indicators of welfare to determine where an individual animal falls along that continuum at any point in time. Accurately assessing and monitoring animal welfare is not easy and requires large amounts of time and resources as an animal’s state of welfare can change quickly. However, dedicating the time and resources can allow for an evidence-based animal welfare management program that will ultimately benefit the entire facility.
MENTAL STATE
PHYSICAL EMOTIONAL STATE STATE
ANIMAL WELFARE
Animal Welfare refers to an animal’s collective physical, mental, and emotional states over a period of time.
As the field of animal welfare has grown, we have learned that simply focusing on negative indicators of welfare (e.g., stereotypic behavior) or finding new ways to improve animal care cannot ensure that an individual animal is thriving. For example, providing an animal with food, shelter, and social companionship does not tell us anything about animal welfare as welfare is a characteristic of the animal, not the environment. Thus, it is critical to examine both the inputs (e.g., veterinary care, enrichment, nutrition) as well as the outputs (e.g., hormone levels, behavior) when assessing welfare. Current best practice should include examining both positive (e.g., behavioral diversity, functional immune system, and good body condition) and negative (e.g., self-injurious behavior, failure to grow, high prevalence of disease, low reproductive success and high infant mortality) indicators of welfare to determine the current state of welfare. We can then compare the current state of welfare with the inputs to understand best practices for maintaining or promoting excellent welfare. An animal’s state of welfare can change very quickly, thus devoting the resources necessary to monitor these inputs and outputs is essential.
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 7 INCORPORATING WILD ANIMAL BEHAVIOR KNOWLEDGE FOR ANIMAL WELFARE
Often, the behavior of animals within a zoo or aquarium environment is compared to their wild counterparts to assess their welfare. While valuable information can be obtained by looking at the natural history of a species, animals within a zoo or aquarium environment would not be expected to have identical behavior to the same species in the wild.
• Use knowledge of the species natural history to engage them in behaviors they are motivated to perform.
• Animals should be provided with opportunities for choice and control over aspects of their environment.
• Animal management should occur throughout the 24 hour day not just during operating hours.
WHAT IS STRESS?
Few terms are thrown around as much as the term “stress” and there equal number of different definitions. Stress can be defined as the body’s response to a perceived or actual threat that results in physiological and behavioral changes. It is important to note that not all stress is bad, and can even be beneficial resulting in heightened cognitive performance or psychological reward. Lack of stressful events can also negatively affect the welfare of animals if they face minimal challenges within their environment (i.e., boredom).
• Determine what types and levels of stress have a detrimental or positive effect on animal welfare.
Eliminating stress shouldn’t be the goal; instead ensure animals are not suffering as a result of stress, but rather are thriving in response to appropriate challenges. Suffering can occur when the stress is “too severe, too complex, or too prolonged” for animals or because the animal does not have the control to change the situation.
Continuously monitoring the collection and using information from a variety of sources to take an evidence-based approach to animal welfare management will help ensure high levels of welfare for the individual animals within a zoological facility.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
1. Spend as much time as possible out in the facility watching the animals. Question anything you see that is unclear or causes concern and encourage all staff to do the same. Sometimes it’s easier for those who don’t work regularly in an area to notice welfare concerns that go unseen by those who are closer to the situation.
2. Look for areas throughout the facility to promote excellent animal welfare. For example, ask restaurant staff if lids and straws can be eliminated because these items often end up in exhibits. This small change can not only improve animal welfare, but can also save money.
3. It is critical that you help further the field of animal welfare by making your collection available to outside scientists for research, and invest in necessary resources to maintain high levels of welfare (e.g., monitoring the collection, evidence–based management changes) to ensure each individual animal is thriving.
4. Allocate resources to provide continuous monitoring and an evidence–based approach to animal welfare
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 8 QUESTIONS TO ASK STAFF
1. Are we having problems breeding or keeping alive a species? In which species do we have sustainability issues? Is this unique to our institution or throughout zoos/aquariums? What is being done to address these issues?
2. Which species within the collection are thriving? What evidence do you have to support this?
3. How do you use evidence on a regular basis to manage the animal collection? What are some recent examples with specific individual animals?
4. What steps are taken when developing a collection plan to ensure high–levels of animal welfare for new species or expanded collections?
5. What steps do you take to make sure animals are managed over a 24 hour period?
6. Do all of your staff have a good understanding of animal welfare?
7. Does your staff have the skills, tools, and resources to monitor and ensure high levels of welfare for the animals under your care?
LINKS TO ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
https://www.aza.org/animal-husbandry-and-welfare/
https://www.aza.org/uploadedFiles/Accreditation/AZA-Accreditation-Standards.pdf
http://www.aphis.usda.gov/wps/portal/aphis/ourfocus/animal-welfare
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 9 SUSTAINABILITY OF AZA ANIMAL PROGRAMS
Zoos and Aquariums require animals to display to the public. Our conservation missions require breeding animals as a hedge against extinction for many species we display. However, very few species can be sustainable for the long-term in just one or two institutions. Therefore, AZA institutions work collaboratively on breeding programs to ensure we have animals for our exhibits in the future. This effort requires all institutions to devote exhibit space, staff expertise, and operational dollars to breeding and maintaining animal populations. Fortunately the zoo and aquarium community is extraordinary in sharing expertise, husbandry knowledge, and working together. As competitors we will all fail. As collaborators we increase the care for our animals which provides a better product for our conservation efforts and our guests.
When the AZA animal community speaks of “sustainability” they mean the ability to have animals for their exhibits and conservation need in the future. A sustainable population means zoos and aquariums are breeding sufficient replacement so there will be exhibit and conservation animals available for the long-term. A non-sustainable population means the population is not breeding fast enough to replace those animals that are dying of old age and there will likely be a shortage of animals for exhibition or conservation in the future without importation from outside the AZA community.
The AZA cooperative breeding programs are organized in a hierarchal system with the following component groups. Your animal staff is critical to the functioning of each of these groups. They need your support to participate and collaborate in these activities. It is their responsibility to communicate and represent your institution in these programs. Again, only if we all participate and do our part will we succeed.
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 10 TAXON ADVISORY GROUPS (TAGs): A TAG is a group of experts from collaborating institutions which provide advice on the care and husbandry of a related group of animals (e.g., marine mammals, cranes, lizards). The TAG develops a Regional Collection Plan (RCP) which provides guidance to AZA institutions regarding which species will be managed collaboratively. Every AZA institution may designate an institutional representative (IR) on each TAG. In this way your institution has a voice in the decision making for our collaborative efforts. Institutions are encouraged to use the RCP when selecting species for exhibition and conservation efforts.
SPECIES SURVIVAL PLANS (SSPs): A SSP assists institutions in determining which individuals should breed and how many offspring are required. Every AZA institution may designate an institutional representative (IR) on each SSP species they display, hold or own. The SSP and the institution should work together to ensure the needs of both the species and the institution are met. By following SSP recommendations our populations become more sustainable.
STUDBOOKS: Studbooks contain the cumulative data on each animal’s pedigree, birth date, death date, institutions where it has lived, etc. With these data analysts determine the history of the population and forecast what actions must be taken in the future to ensure a sustainable supply of animals for exhibits and conservation.
IMPORTANT QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR ANIMAL STAFF
How is our institution involved in the leadership of AZA cooperative breeding programs? All institutions can be involved in some way. Larger institutions should be more involved by supporting more of the experts to run the committees.
What is our institution’s compliance rate with SSP breeding and transfer recommendations as recorded by PMCTrack? The AZA Population Management Center will help you determine how your institution compares to other institutions in fulfilling the recommendations that make us all more sustainable. No institution is perfect, but it is important to know you are doing as well as your fellow institutions.
What percent of our collection is dedicated to AZA cooperative breeding programs or conservation species? This percentage varies widely depending on the type of institution and their mission. However, it is a good metric to consider and evaluate what makes sense for the institution and move in that direction.
What are three goals for our institution to improve sustainability for the overall community? Zoos and Aquariums vary in how they can help. Some can provide space for additional breeding, some can hold geriatric animals, some can provide husbandry expertise or research, etc.
IMPORTANT LINKS TO FURTHER DETAILED INFORMATION
Overview of animal management programs: https://www.aza.org/animal-care-and-management/
What is a TAG? https://www.aza.org/taxon-advisory-groups/
What is an SSP? https://www.aza.org/species-survival-plan-program/
What is a Studbook? https://www.aza.org/studbooks/
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 11 WHAT IS ACCREDITATION?
In AZA, “accreditation” means official recognition and approval of a zoo or aquarium by a group of experts. These experts, called the AZA Accreditation Commission, carefully examine each zoo or aquarium that applies for AZA membership.
Only those zoos and aquariums that meet our high standards can become members of AZA.
BENEFITS OF ACCREDITATION
Public Trust • Develops public confidence by means that an institution meets or exceeds current professional standards;
• Provides a publicly recognized badge signifying excellence in, and commitment to, such things as animal care, conservation and education; and
• Distinguishes AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums from “roadside zoos.”
Benefits for the Accredited Zoo or Aquarium • Increases eligibility for grants;
• Cuts red tape (exempts institutions from certain government requirements, primarily at the state level);
• Promotes professional recognition from the top zoological parks and aquariums in the United States;
• Provides impartial evaluation on a periodic basis by professional colleagues;
• Promotes excellence within the institution by causing an institution to continuously evaluate itself;
• Provides staff an invaluable opportunity to learn from other institutions;
• Fosters staff and community pride; and
• Significantly improves the ability to attract and retain a high quality, profession staff.
Access to Critical AZA Programs and Services • Participation in Animal Exchange (access to specimens from other AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums for loan or breeding);
• Opportunities for collaboration and consultation with AZA colleagues who are top experts in their fields;
• Participation in the Species Survival Plan, AZA’s flagship Animal Conservation Program;
• Free and discounted admission to AZA accredited institutions for collegial information-sharing and much more.
Link to more information about accreditation; www.aza.org/what-is-accreditation/
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 12 PUBLIC PERCEPTION & THE ZOOLOGICAL COMMUNITY
The saying, “perception is reality” or “perception is 9/10ths of reality” is something every zoo or aquarium director must embrace, especially at a time when keeping animals in human care is increasingly scrutinized. wiseGEEK defines public perception as:
“The social phenomenon known as public perception can be seen as the difference between an absolute truth based on facts and a virtual truth shaped by popular opinion, media coverage and/or reputation. Public perception is not necessarily inaccurate or based on something other than the truth. The public at large can often receive enough factual information in order to form a general opinion about a public figure, celebrity or industry without relying on innuendo or unfounded rumors.”
Because public perception changes quickly, particularly with the influences made through social media, directors should make it their priority to pay attention to shifts about their organization’s reputation, as well as the general reputation of zoos and aquariums both domestically and abroad.
The AZA has done extensive work understanding public perception and regularly measure’s public attitudes. The following links are helpful resources to gain a high-level understanding of general public perceptions of zoos and aquariums at a national level:
• Current AZA Zoo and Aquarium stats: https://www.aza.org/zoo-aquarium-statistics/
• Public Benefits of Zoos and Aquariums: https://www.aza.org/public-benefits/
• AZA Annual Report on Conservation Science: https://www.aza.org/annual-report-on-conservation-and-science/
• Publicly released AZA Zoo and Aquarium Visitor and Public Research: https://www.aza.org/visitor-and-public- research/
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 13 Directors are encouraged to attend the annual AZA Director’s Policy Conference, director meetings at both the mid-year and annual conferences, and the Government Affairs fly-in in Washington D.C. AZA regularly presents up-to-date national public opinion research during these meetings.
In addition, read the daily media clips distributed by AZA for further insight into public opinion, as well as sign up for Google alerts about your organization and/or keywords.
Closer to home, your organization can conduct, or already is conducting, annual research that measures public opinion in your market. Knowing your community’s expectations is critical to the organization’s success and survival.
PUBLIC PERCEPTION AND YOUR ORGANIZATIONS SUCCESS
As a director, it’s imperative that you spend time with your marketing/public relations staff (along with audience research staff/pollsters) to best understand the unique visitor, community, and activists perceptions of your organization. A few public opinion benchmarks to consider when talking with your marketing/ PR staff are:
• General public/visitors (i.e. are people still coming, what kind of questions are being asked of staff/ volunteers by guests, are there protests outside your facility or online petitions)
• Social media (i.e. how many followers do you have, what is the dialogue on social media channels, are fans correcting inaccurate information before organization does)
• Mainstream media (i.e. what is the news covering, what are news channels promoting, are they covering your organization/taking calls from your public relations folks, tone of coverage of your organization, editorial comments)
• Political and government attitudes toward zoos/aquariums/animals/environment, both local and national (i.e. quotes in news, legislation/regulations being proposed, visits to organization by officials)
• Philanthropy (i.e. is your organization having increasing challenges to raising funds, are donors/sponsors asking questions about animal care and welfare, are funds being more restricted to certain areas of operations due to concerns of another part of the operation)
• Students/kids/school groups (i.e. are school groups still visiting, what types of questions are teachers/ students asking, are students actively engaged in anti–zoo/aquarium activities, what materials are school districts allowing students to review)
• Activists (i.e. chatter about your organization – especially online, more coordinated efforts in your community – even if not targeted at your organization)
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 14 TOP QUESTIONS ASKED BY THE PUBLIC
An AZA task force polled several zoo and aquarium directors and compiled a list of often–asked questions. This resource is meant to provide questions and answers, but more importantly, inspired you to think about the distinctive aspects of zoos and aquariums. That’s why it’s imperative to work closely with your marketing/ PR staffs to go over the questions and develop answers that best serve your organization and the community.
1. Where do you get your animals?
a. Do you collect animals from the wild?
2. How much do the animals eat?
a. How much do you spend on food?
3. What do you feed the animals?
a. Do you feed them live animals? b. Do you feed them animals that die at your facility?
4. Is that exhibit big enough for the animals?
a. Why is that exhibit so small or only concrete or water dirty? b. Animals walk/swim miles every day, are they ok in that exhibit?
5. Why is there only one animal in the exhibit (or separated or lack of animal groups)?
6. What do you do with animals that die?
7. What is the life expectancy (how long does “that” animal live) and how does that compare to in the wild?
8. Do any of your animals ever escape?
9. How do you feel about having animals in captivity?
a. Are they really happy? b. Shouldn’t they be in the wild as nature intended them? c. Can’t we learn about animals on the internet?
10. Did you see the TV/newspaper article about (a zoo, aquarium, animal issue at another facility)?
11. Can I donate my exotic pet?
12. Will we ever get X animal?
13. Is all breeding natural?
a. Are there issues with in–breeding?
14. How can I get a job to work with the animals?
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 15 IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT PUBLIC PERCEPTION
In addition to anticipating questions and answering them effectively, it’s extremely important that every director understands that the zoological community is closely aligned — possibly more than any other profession. Because of that, each organization can be negatively affected or unjustly judged by the public or opinion leaders due to a situation that occurs at another facility — even if your organization does not care for a certain type of animals — or by statements made by a director, animal care staff or organization. The ripple affect can be devastating and take years to undo. Below are a few recent examples:
• SeaWorld and Blackfish
• Copenhagen Zoo giraffe
• Elephant/dolphin sanctuaries
• Primates in commercials
• Keeper attacked by animal
These examples, and many others, emphasize the importance of understanding public perception, understanding the power of each zoo or aquariums actions, being prepared to answer questions and present the facts, working closely with your marketing/PR/animal care teams and relying on the resources of AZA staff, committees, Board, and resource center.
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 16 APPENDIX A
ZOO & AQUARIUM REGULATORY AGENCIES
• US Department of Agriculture – Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS) – Annual inspections of mammal enclosures, commissary and vet hospitals, ad hoc investigations
• US Fish & Wildlife (USFW) – Endangered Species permits, CITES permits, Captive Bred Wildlife registrations, Wild Bird Conservation Act permits and Migratory Bird Treaty Act permits, permitting for acquiring, moving, transporting of animals
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Environmental impact, storm-water run-off with non-compliance
• National Marine Fisheries Service – Marine mammal public display permits, sharks, endangered species of fishes)
• Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) – Transportation Security Administration (animal transport by air)
• Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – Interstate movement of some animals, drug applications)
• Centers for Disease Control (CDC) – Import of some animals, including non-human primates)
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Non-point source effluent
• AZA – Accreditation with every 5 year peer inspection, non-compliance can lead to losing Accreditation but no fines. Loss of Accreditation can mean the loss of SSP Animals
• State Environmental Agency – Hazardous waste removal.
• Corp of Engineers and other government agencies – Flood plain management
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) – workplace safety over-sight, non-compliance
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – federal, state & local building/facilities permitting around the accessibility of grounds and buildings
• Local Governing Authorities – i.e. City of Dallas Park Board, Parks & Rec, County and State Agencies. Some can oversee long range planning and governs admission ticket prices.
• City/County Building Codes – enforced usually by the city that the zoo resides for building trades and construction
• City/County Health Department – enforce food codes for serving public (food handlers permitting/facilities inspections) also in some areas they over-see some agriculture things like petting zoos
• State Labor Commission - fair hiring practices, INS compliance
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 17 APPENDIX B
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
A AAALAC American Association for Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care
AAAS American Association for the Advancement of Science
AABGA American Association of Botanical Gardens and Arboreta
AAEE Australian Association of Environmental Educators
AAM American Association of Museums
AAV Association of Avian Veterinarians
AAZK American Association of Zoo Keepers
AAZPA American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums (legal name of AZA)
AAZV American Association of Zoo Veterinarians
ABA American Birding Association
ABC American Bird Conservancy
ABS Animal Behavior Society
ABWAK Association of British Wild Animal Keepers
ACOPAZOO Asociación Colombiana de Parques Zoológicos
ACORENA Asociación para la Conservación de los Recursos Naturales (Costa Rica)
ADISC Animal Data Information Systems Committee
ADPA Association of Dive Program Administrators
ADZG Association of Danish Zoological Gardens
AEZA Asociación Española de Zoos y Acuarios
AFA American Federation of Aviculture
AfESG African Elephant Specialist Group (IUCN SSC)
AFO Association of Field Ornithologists
AfRSG African Rhino Specialist Group (IUCN SSC)
AI Artificial Insemination
ALPZA Asociación Latino Americana de Parques Zoológicos y Acuarios (formerly LAAZGA)
AMACZOOA Asociación Mesoamericana y del Caribe de Zoológicos y Acuarios (formerly AMAZOO – Association of Meso-American Zoos)
ANPJZP Association Nationale de Parcs et Jardins Zoologiques Prives (France)
AOU American Ornithologists’ Union
AP & WS American Pheasant & Waterfowl Society
APHIS Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
ARAZPA Australasian Regional Association of Zoological Parks and Aquaria
ARCS Annual Report on Conservation and Science (AZA)
ARKS Animal Records Keeping System
ASIH American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 18 ASG Amphibian Specialist Group (IUCN SSC)
ASM American Society of Mammalogists
ASMP Australasian Species Management Programme
ASP American Society of Primatologists
AsRSG Asian Rhino Specialist Group (IUCN SSC)
ASTC Association of Science and Technology Centers
ASZK Australasian Society of Zoo Keeping
AVPZA Asociación Venozolona de Parques Zoológicos y Acuarios
AWA Animal Welfare Act
AYM Association of Youth Museums
AZA Association of Zoos and Aquariums (formerly American Association of Zoos and Aquariums)
AZCARM Association of Zoos, Breeders and Aquariums of the Mexican Republic (Asociación de Zoológicos, Criaderos y Acuarios de la República Mexicana)
AZDANZ Association of Zoo Directors of Australia and New Zealand
AZE Alliance for Zero Extinction
AZH Association of Zoological Horticulture
B BFF Black-footed ferret
BIAZA British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (formerly the Federation of Zoological Gardens of Great Britain and Ireland)
BLM Bureau of Land Management (USDI)
BNHS Bombay Natural History Society
BRD Biological Resources Division (US Geological Survey)
C CAMP Conservation Assessment and Management Plan
CAP Conservation Action Partnership (formerly FIG) (AZA)
CAUZ Consortium of Aquariums, Universities, and Zoos
CAZA Canadian Association of Zoos and Aquariums (formerly CAZPA)
CAZG Chinese Association of Zoological Gardens
CBSG Conservation Breeding Specialist Group (formerly Captive Breeding Specialist Group) (IUCN/SSC)
CCF Cheetah Conservation Fund (Namibia)
CDC Centers for Disease Control (U.S. Public Health Service)
CDC Conservation Data Centers (TNC)
CEF Conservation Endowment Fund (AZA)
CI Conservation International
CIRCC Committee on Interregional Conservation Coordination (WAZA)
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 19 CITES Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora
COGBAZ Council of Governing Bodies of Australasian Zoos
CONAF Corporación Nacional Forestal (Chile)
COS Cooper Ornithological Society
COSEWIC Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada
CPC Center for Plant Conservation
CPR Captive Propagation Rescue
CRC Conservation & Research Center (NZP)
CRES Center for Reproduction of Endangered Species (ZSSD)
CREW Center for Reproduction of Endangered Wildlife (Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden)
CSZF/USCZG Union of Czech and Slovac Zoological Gardens
CWGBT Cooperative Working Group on Bird Trade
CWS Colonial Waterbird Society
CZA Central Zoo Authority (India)
D DAPTF Declining Amphibian Populations Task Force (IUCN/SSC)
DERP Display/Education/Research Population
DOE Department Of Energy (US)
DRG Division of Research Grants (NIH)
E EAZA European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (formerly ECAZA)
EARAZA Euro-Asian Regional Association of Zoos and Aquaria (Russia)
EEP European Endangered Species Programme
EIS Environmental Impact Statement
EMA Elephant Managers Association
EPA Environmental Protection Agency
ESA Ecological Society of America
ESA Endangered Species Act
ESP Ecosystem Survival Plan
EUAC European Union of Aquarium Curators
EZE European Zoo Educators
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 20 F FAO Food and Agriculture Organization (UN)
FASEB Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology
FCC Field Conservation Committee (AZA)
FCRG Field Conservation Resource Guide (AZA publication)
FFI Fauna and Flora International
FGE Founder genome equivalent
FIC Founder importance coefficient
FIG Fauna Interest Group (now CAP) (AZA)
FUNDAZOO Fundación Pro Zoológico (Foundations for Zoos) (Costa Rica)
FUNPZA Fundacion Nacional de Parques Zoologicos y Aquarios (Venezuela)
FWS US Fish and Wildlife Service
G GCS Global Conservation Strategy (formerly GASP)
GDAWR Guam Division of Aquatic and Wildlife Resources
GHSP Global Heritage Species Program
GIS Geographic Information System
GLAZE Gay and Lesbian Association of Zoo Employees
GLT Golden lion tamarin
GMPWG Global Management Plan Working Group
GSA General Services Administration
GU Genome uniqueness
H HCP Habitat Conservation Plan
HL Herpetologist League
HSUS Humane Society of the United States
I IAAAM International Association for Aquatic Animal Medicine
IAAPA International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions
IAATE International Association of Avian Trainers and Educators
IACUC Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee
IADISC International Animal Data Information Systems Committee
IAFWA International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies
IBA Important Bird Areas (National Audubon Society)
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 21 IBAMA Brazilian Institute of the Environment and Natural Renewable Resources
IBPGR International Board for Plant Genetic Resources
ICBP International Council for Bird Preservation (IUCN)
ICP Institutional Collection Plan
IDMAG Institutional Data Management Advisory Group
IEF International Elephant Foundation
IL Institutional Liaison
IMATA International Marine Animal Trainers Association
IMLS Institute of Museum and Library Services
IPAM International Partnerships Among Museums
IPCC International Panel on Climate Change
IPPL International Primate Protection League
IPS International Society of Primatologists
IR Institutional Representative
IRF International Rhino Foundation
ISEC International Society for Endangered Cats
ISIS International Species Information System
ISZ International Society of Zooculturists
IUCN The World Conservation Union (formerly the Int’l Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources)
IUDZG International Union of Directors of Zoological Gardens (now WZO)
IVF In vitro fertilization
IVM In vitro maturation
IWC International Whaling Commission
IWWA International Wild Waterfowl Association
IZDA Indian Zoo Directors Association
IZE International Zoo Educators
IZN International Zoo News
IZPA Indonesian Zoological Parks Association
IZY International Zoo Yearbook
J JAZAE Japanese Association of Zoo and Aquarium Educators
JAZGA Japanese Association of Zoological Gardens and Aquariums
JGI Jane Goodall Institute
JMSC Joint Management of Species Committee
JWPT Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust (now Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust)
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 22 K KV Kinship value
L LAAZGA Latin American Association of Zoological Gardens and Aquariums (now ALPZA)
LTER Long-Term Ecological Research Sites (NSF)
M MAI Maximum avoidance of inbreeding
MAP Museum Assessment Program
MAZA Mid America Zoo Alliance
MBTA Migratory Bird Treaty Act
MEDARKS Medical Animal Records Keeping System
MIKE Monitoring the Illegal Killing of Elephants (CITES)
MIRP Multi-Institutional Research Project (AZA)
MK Mean kinship
MMPA Marine Mammal Protection Act
MOP Memorandum Of Participation
MOU Memorandum of Understanding
MVP Minimum viable population
N NAAMP North American Amphibian Monitoring Program
NACAP Conservation Action Partnership: North America (formerly NAFIG) (AZA)
NAS National Academy of Sciences
NAS National Audubon Society
NCI National Cancer Institute
NEA National Endowment for the Arts
NEH National Endowment for the Humanities
NEPA National Environmental Policy Act
NERP National Environmental Research Parks (DOE)
NFHZG National Federation of Hungarian Zoological Gardens
NFRZG National Foundation for Research in Zoological Gardens (Netherlands)
NFWF National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
NGO Nongovernmental organization
NHP Natural Heritage Program (TNC)
NIH National Institutes of Health
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 23 NMFS National Marine Fisheries Service
NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NOAHS New Opportunities in Animal Health Sciences (NZP)
NPS National Park Service (USDI)
NSF National Science Foundation
NTIS National Technical Information Service
NVD Nederlandse Vereniging van Dierentuinen (Dutch Federation of Zoos)
NWF National Wildlife Federation
NWRA National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association
NZP Smithsonian National Zoological Park
O OC The Ornithological Council
OMA Office of Management Authority
OSA Office of Scientific Authority
OSI Office of Scientific Integrity (NIH)
P PAAZAB African Association of Zoos and Aquaria
PADU Protected Areas Data Unit (World Conservation Monitoring Center)
PAWS Performing Animal Welfare Society
PETA People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals
PHVA Population and habitat viability analysis
PKBSI The Indonesian Zoological Parks Association
PLH Program Leaders Handbook (AZA)
PMC Population Management Center (AZA)
PMP Population Management Plan (AZA)
PVA Population Viability Analysis
PZS/PZDA Polish Zoological Society
R RCC Research Coordinators Committee (AZA)
RCP Regional collection plan
REGASP Regional Animal Species Collection Plan
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 24 S SAG Scientific Advisory Group (AZA)
SAIO Salim Ali Institute of Ornithology
SASZ Swiss Association of Scientific Zoos
SAVE Save African Endangered Wildlife Foundation
SAZA Swedish Association of Zoos and Aquaria (formerly SAZPA)
SCB Society for Conservation Biology
SEAZA South East Asian Zoo Association (Indonesia)
SER Society for Ecological Restoration
SMCC Species Management Coordinating Council (ARAZPA and COGBAZ)
SMM Society for Marine Mammalogy
SNDPZF Syndicat National des Directeurs de Parcs Zoologiques Francais
SPARKS Single Population Analysis and Record Keeping System
SPMAG Small Population Management Advisory Group
SSAR Society for the Study of Amphibian and Reptiles
SSC Species Survival Commission (IUCN)
SSCJ Species Survival Committee of Japan
SSP Species Survival Plan Program® (AZA)
STF Save the Tiger Fund
SZB Socieda de Zoologicos do Brazil
T TAG Taxon Advisory Group (AZA)
TMA Taxon Management Account
TNC The Nature Conservancy
TRAFFIC Trade Records Analysis of Flora and Fauna in Commerce
U UCSZG Union of Czech and Slovak Zoological Gardens
UIZA/ UIGZ Unione Italiana dei Giardini Zoologici
UNEP United Nations Environmental Programme
UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
USAID United States Agency for International Development
USDA United States Department of Agriculture
USDI United States Department of the Interior
USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service
USGCRP United States Global Change Research Program
USGS United States Geological Survey (USDI)
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 25 V VDZ Verband Deutscher Zoodirektoren (German Zoo Union)
W WAZA World Association of Zoos and Aquariums
WCMC Wildlife Conservation and Management Committee (AZA)
WCMC World Conservation Monitoring Centre (Great Britain; formerly IUCN Conservation Monitoring Centre)
WCS Wildlife Conservation Society
WII Wildlife Institute of India
WOS Wilson Ornithological Society
WPTC Wildlife Preservation Trust Canada
WPTI Wildlife Preservation Trust International
WRI World Resource Institute
WSPA World Society for the Protection of Animals
WWF World Wildlife Fund (US)
WWF World Wide Fund for Nature (International)
WZO World Zoo Organization (formerly IUDZG)
Z ZAA Australasian Regional Association of Zoological Parks and Aquaria (new name)
ZCOG Zoo Conservation Outreach Group
ZIMS Zoological Information Management System
ZOO Zoo Outreach Organisation (India)
ZPOT Zoological Park Organization of Thailand
ZRA Zoological Registrars Association
ZSL Zoological Society of London
ZSSD Zoological Society of San Diego
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 26 APPENDIX C
GLOSSARY OF COMMON TERMS
Accountability – Accountability refers to the processes by which Animal Program participants including Program Leaders, Institutional Representatives (IRs), and Institutional Liaisons (ILs) are responsible for producing and reviewing documents, and communicating among appropriate individuals. Accountability of Animal Programs includes meeting deadlines, requesting extensions if needed, maintaining communication with all individuals, and adhering to the AZA’s Full Participation Policy and the Species Survival Plan® Animal Management Reconciliation Policy.
Advisor – An advisor is a non-voting participant of an AZA Animal Program (AP) that provides advice to the AP in their efforts to identify, develop and implement goals related to their species. An advisor may also provide input on Animal Care Manuals and assist with the development of education materials and research projects related to the Advisor’s area of expertise.
Animal Care Manuals (ACMs) – Animal Care Manuals (ACMs) are a compilation of animal care and management knowledge that has been gained from recognized species experts, including AZA Taxon Advisory Groups (TAGs), Species Survival Plan® Programs (SSPs), biologists, veterinarians, nutritionists, reproduction physiologists, behaviorists and researchers. Content is based on the current science, practice, and technology of animal management. The manual assembles best practices, animal care recommendations and AZA accreditation standards to maximize capacity for excellence in animal care and welfare and is updated every 5 years. All ACMs are peer reviewed, widely valued, and acclaimed by other regional associations. All TAGs are required to coordinate the publication of ACMs for the taxa within their purview.
Animal Exchange – The Animal Exchange allows representatives from AZA-Accredited Institutions, Certified Related Facilities and Approved Non-Member Participants to list and search for individuals of a species that can be exchanged to meet the goals of their Institutional Collection Plan (ICP) or the Regional Collection Plan (RCP).
Animal Programs Database – The AZA Animal Programs Database allows anyone to access general information about AZA’s Taxon Advisory Groups (TAGs), Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Programs, Studbooks, the individual species included in these AZA Animal Programs (APs), and view Program Leader, Officer and Advisor contact information. AZA members can log in to the AZA Animal Programs Database to gain access to more detailed AP information and have the ability to download Institutional Representative (IR) lists and associated final and draft documents.
Animal Program Summary Table – Animal Program Summary Table identifies each AZA Animal Program (AP) (Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Programs and Studbooks) recommended by the TAG for cooperative management. The following information is included for each AP: the date of the last Breeding and Transfer Plan; the current population size, sustainability score, designation, target population size, and target sustainability score; the number of additional spaces needed to achieve the target population size; and the 5-year population trend, conservation status, and top three goals. This table must be updated as APs are analyzed by the Population Management Center (PMC), a PMC Adjunct or an approved Small Population Management Scientific Advisory Group (SPMAG) Advisor, and is a required component of the TAG Annual Report and the TAG’s Regional Collection Plan (RCP).
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 27 Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) – Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of accredited zoos and aquariums in the areas of animal care, wildlife conservation, education and science. AZA is America’s leading accrediting organization for zoos and aquariums and accredits only those institutions that have achieved rigorous standards for animal care, education, wildlife conservation and science.
AZA Animal Program – AZA Animal Programs (APs) include Taxon Advisory Groups (TAGs), Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Programs and Studbook Programs. APs are responsible for the extraordinary leadership, development, oversight, promotion, evaluation and support of AZA’s cooperative animal management, conservation, and scientific initiatives. Management tools, databases, reference materials, policies, and management plans have been developed to facilitate exceptional AP collaboration within and amongst AZA-accredited institutions.
AZA Brand/Branded – The signature for the Association of Zoos & Aquariums is a unique piece of artwork that has been designed specifically for our brand. Consisting of the AZA wordmark and the AZA ampersand symbol, the signature is an extremely valuable asset and the most concise visual representation of our brand.
AZA Board Approved Policies – AZA policies may be drafted by AZA Committees, Scientific Advisory Groups (SAGs), and Animal Programs (APs) in collaboration with their AZA Staff and Board Liaisons but all AZA-related policies must be approved by the AZA Board of Directors before being finalized, published, or distributed. AZA policies may cover topics such as animal management, animal programs, conservation, ethics, health, husbandry and welfare, research and technology, and safety.
AZA Dedicated Funds Account – AZA Committees, Scientific Advisory Groups (SAGs), and Animal Programs (APs), who hold and distribute money raised specifically to support projects initiated or coordinated by their group must use an AZA Dedicated Funds to manage all transactions.
AZA Mission – The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) provides its members the services, high standards and best practices needed to be leaders and innovators in animal care, wildlife conservation and science, conservation education, the guest experience, and community engagement.
AZA Network – The Association of Zoos & Aquariums’ online private social networking tool.
AZA Policy for Full Participation – AZA policy stating that all AZA-accredited institutions and Certified Related Facilities having a Green SSP animal in their collection are required to participate in the collaborative SSP planning process (e.g., provide relevant animal data to the AZA Studbook Keeper, assign an Institutional Representative (IR) who will communicate institutional wants and needs to the SSP Coordinator, comment on the draft plan during the 30-day review period, and abide by the recommendations agreed upon in the final plan). All AZA member institutions and Animal Programs (APs), regardless of management designation, must adhere to the AZA Acquisition, Transfer and Transition Policy, as well as the AZA Code of Professional Ethics.
AZA Strategic Plan – AZA accredited zoos and aquariums will be recognized for leading a compelling wildlife conservation movement. We will achieve this by caring for wildlife and wild places; educating and engaging public, professional and government audiences; serving and increasing membership; and developing a robust and sustainable economic model which empowers AZA to provide superlative member services.
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 28 Breeding and Transfer Plans – Breeding and Transfer Plans summarize the current demographic and genetic status of a Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Program, describe the SSP Program management designation, and recommend breeding pairs and transfers. Breeding and Transfer Plans are designed to maintain a healthy, genetically diverse and demographically stable population.
Candidate Programs – TAG managed Animal Programs are not considered official AZA cooperatively managed Animal Programs; however the TAG has the goal to grow these populations to meet minimum criteria to be an SSP Program. Candidate Programs manage smaller populations (19 or fewer individual animals), and/or manage populations among only one or two participating AZA member institutions. New Animal Programs that do not have a published AZA Regional Studbook will also be classified as Candidate Programs until an AZA Regional Studbook is published.
Certified Related Facilities – Organizations holding wildlife that are not commercial entities, and are not open to the public on a regularly scheduled, predictable basis. The facility shall be under the direction of a professional staff trained in animal husbandry, and shall be further defined as having conservation and preservation as part of its mission—a mission that shall have a beneficial, tangible, supportive impact on the zoological and aquarium professions. This includes wildlife ranches, wildlife refuges or rehab centers, research facilities, survival centers, breeding farms, and/or similar organizations.
Conservation Grants Fund (CGF) – Established in 1984, CGF supports the cooperative conservation-related scientific and educational initiatives of AZA and AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums and their collaborators. CGF grants are awarded in six categories: Animal Health, Animal Welfare, Conservation Education, Field Conservation and/or Reintroduction, Management and/or Breeding, Research.
Conservation Partner – Organizations that support the vision, mission and goals of zoos and aquariums. Conservation Partners represent AZA-Accredited Institution member societies and associated organizations, professional societies, conservation organizations, universities, some government entities and other non-profits.
Ex situ Conservation – Preservation of species outside of their native habitat.
Global Species Management Plan (GSMP) – GSMPs are formal, international population management plans among a minimum of two regional zoological associations, and are overseen by WAZA. GSMPs are a valuable partnership when population goals for increasing sustainability cannot be met within a single region. A GSMP provides an opportunity to combine several regional populations, thus improving the genetic and demographic management potential by increasing the population’s size, carrying capacity, and other resources.
Green Species Survival Plan® (Green SSP) Program – A Green SSP Program has a population size of 50 or more animals and is projected to retain 90% gene diversity for a minimum of 100 years or 10 generations. Green SSP Programs are subject to AZA’s Full Participation and Sustainability Partner Policies.
In situ Conservation – Preservation of natural communities and populations of species in the wild.
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 29 Institutional Liaison (IL) – The Institutional Liaison (IL) ensures that there is effective communication and participation between the institution and AZA’s Animal Programs (APs). The IL designates Institutional Representatives (IRs), keeps the institution’s IR list current, and is responsible for updating IR contact information on the AZA website. The IL serves as the default IR for any AP which does not have an IR assigned and is required to respond accordingly. The IL works with Program Leaders and IRs to ensure that their institution fully participates in all associated Taxon Advisory Groups (TAGs) and Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Programs, and if necessary, will meet in conflict resolution processes.
Institutional Representative (IR) – The Institutional Representative (IR) is the primary contact between his/her institution and the Program Leader of the Animal Programs (APs) to which s/he has been designated. The IR is responsible for maintaining open communication between the AP and the institution, communicating to the Program Leader on behalf of the institution, and participating in the AP communications and activities.
Management Group – At a minimum, the Management Group is composed of the Coordinator, Vice Coordinator, and AZA Regional Studbook Keeper. The Management Group serves as the voting body for Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Program business and all members are integrally involved in the SSP Program appointments, publications, and meetings. Management Group members must be elected from the SSP Program’s Institutional Representative (IRs).
MateRx – The primary output is a matrix of genetic ratings for every possible breeding pair in a population which allow managers to quickly discover how the genetic status of animals in their collections compare to the rest of a managed population.
Monthly Animal Programs Update – AZA’s Monthly Animal Programs Update contains information about the most recent news pertaining to Animal Programs (APs), Professional Development Courses, workshops, conferences, meetings, funding and award opportunities, new Program Leaders, Program Leader vacancies, new publications, and information regarding Breeding and Transfer Plans.
Officer – Officer positions for an Animal Program (AP) include the Program Leader Taxon Advisory Group (TAG) Vice Chair or Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Program Vice Coordinator, TAG or SSP Secretary, and if any financial components are incorporated into the Animal Program, a TAG or SSP Treasurer. Officers, with the exception of the TAG Chair or SSP Coordinator, are elected from the TAG Steering Committee or SSP Management Group and the Steering Committee/ Management Group forms the electorate for that vote.
PMCTrack – PMCTrack is a web-based database and monitoring system designed to evaluate the outcomes of breeding and transfer recommendations made through the AZA Animal Programs (APs) such as Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Programs. PMCTrack provides the necessary tools and data to understand, monitor, and improve AZA’s cooperative population management system. PMCTrack includes survey functionality to request additional information from institutions on the information needed for preparing for SSP Breeding and Transfer Plans (wants/needs, reasons for unfulfilled outcomes).
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 30 Population Management Center (PMC) – The Population Management Center (PMC) hosted by the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, Illinois, is responsible for conducting demographic and genetic analyses needed to develop and distribute population management recommendations for all SSP Programs. PMC staff, including population biologists and studbook analysts, assist each SSP in the development of their population management plans by making sure the data are accurate, determining the current population status, predicting the future population status, identifying specific breeding recommendations, and distributing the plan to all participating AZA-accredited institutions. In addition, the PMC contributes valuable information for AZA Animal Care Manuals (ACMs) and Regional Collection Plans (RCPs).
Population Viability Analysis (PVA)– A PVA is a computer model that projects the likely future status of a population. PVAs are used for evaluating long-term sustainability, setting population goals, and comparing alternative management strategies. Several quantitative parameters are used in a PVA to calculate the extinction risk of a population, forecast the population’s future trajectory, and identify key factors impacting the population’s future. As part of an initiative to assess the long-term health of AZA populations, population biologists at Lincoln Park Zoo have been targeting select TAGs to conduct PVAs on their populations. These PVAs are being scheduled separately outside of the regular planning process for programs. Any TAGs interested in examining questions relating to their populations’ long term status can contact Lisa Faust ([email protected]).
Program Leader – Program Leaders include Taxon Advisory Group (TAG) Chairs, Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Program Coordinators, and AZA Regional Studbook Keepers.
Program Leader Portal – The Program Leader Portal is a page on the AZA website that contains numerous links, documents and resources aimed to assist Program Leaders. This page includes illustrative protocols to help Program Leaders navigate the Animal Programs Database; contact information for AZA Taxon Advisory Group (TAG) Chairs, Institutional Liaison (IL), and Wildlife Conservation and Management Committee (WCMC) Liaisons; templates for Studbook publication, TAG Annual Reports, and the Animal Programs Summary Table; Animal Program Sustainability Designations; a link to the Animal Program Handbooks; and FAQs.
Publish – An SSP Breeding and Transfer Plan, AZA Regional Studbook, Population Viability Analysis, MateRx, or a TAG Regional Collection Plan is considered published once the document is posted on that Animal Program’s page in the AZA Animal Programs Database.
Red Species Survival Plan® (Red SSP) Program – A Red Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Program has a population size of twenty or more animals managed among three or more participating AZA institutions. If a population does not meet these minimum criteria, but has an IUCN designation of Critically Endangered, Endangered, or Extinct in the Wild, and the TAG has developed three goals to sustain this population, then the population will be considered a Red SSP Program. Red SSPs cannot retain 90% gene diversity for 100 years or 10 generations and participation by AZA institutions is voluntary.
Regional Collection Plan (RCP) – Taxon Advisory Groups (TAGs) develop Regional Collection Plans (RCPs) to recommend species for cooperative management among the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) member institutions, determine the sustainability goals for each recommended Animal Program (AP) within its purview, identify objectives relevant to their long-term collection plans, and ensure adherence to AZA’s animal management and conservation goals.
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 31 Scientific Advisory Group (SAG) – Established in 1991, Scientific Advisory Groups (SAGs) help facilitate, support, network and coordinate the relevant research activities of its member institutions. SAGs are made up of experts in a particular field of wildlife science. Members include veterinarians, researchers and zoo- and aquarium-based curators with appropriate scientific training, as well as university, government and other outside scientists with a commitment to sharing their particular expertise.
Small Population Management Scientific Advisory Group (SPMAG) – A Scientific Advisory Group (SAG) that provides technical advice pertaining to population management for AZA Animal Programs. SPMAG helps advance the science of applied small population biology and develops tools for use by small population managers.
Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Program – Established in 1981, the mission of an AZA Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Program is to cooperatively manage specific, and typically threatened or endangered, species population within AZA- Accredited Zoos and Aquariums, Certified Related Facilities, and Approved Sustainability Partners. Each SSP manages the breeding of a species in order to maintain a healthy and self-sustaining population that is both genetically diverse and demographically stable.
Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Coordinator – An Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Program Coordinator performs various duties to lead and support the AZA SSP program. The SSP Coordinator works with Institutional Representative (IRs), the AZA Regional Studbook Keeper (if different from the Coordinator), the Taxon Advisory Group (TAG), the Wildlife Conservation and Management Committee (WCMC), and the AZA Conservation & Science Department, as well as any associated governmental agencies, to develop, oversee, promote, and support the cooperative animal management, conservation, and research initiatives of the SSP Program. The primary responsibility of the SSP Coordinator is to regularly complete and distribute an SSP Breeding and Transfer Plan for the managed population.
Statement of Individual Commitment – A signed statement by the potential new Animal Program (AP) officer to show that the individual is willing and able to meet the commitments and responsibilities of the AP and leading the group in its mission.
Statement of Institutional Support – A signed statement by the potential new Animal Program (AP) officer’s institution to show that the institution is willing and able to support this individual in meeting the commitments and responsibilities of the AP and leading the group in its mission.
Steering Committee – The Steering Committee serves as the voting body for Taxon Advisory Group (TAG) business, and all members are integrally involved in TAG decision making, appointments, publications and meetings. The Steering Committee is composed of 5–15 members, including Officers. Each TAG may determine the optimal size and management of its Steering Committee.
Studbooks – An AZA Regional Studbook dynamically documents the pedigree and entire demographic history of each individual in a population of species. These collective histories are known as the population’s genetic and demographic identity and are invaluable tools that track and manage each individual cared for in AZA-Accredited Zoos and Aquariums, Certified Related Facilities and by Approved Non-Member Participants as part of a single ex situ population.
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 32 Studbook Keeper – The AZA Regional Studbook Keeper is responsible for maintaining an accurate record of the histories of all individual animals in an ex situ population. The AZA Regional Studbook Keeper works directly with the associated Taxon Advisory Group (TAG) and Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Program, all participating AZA member institutions, the Wildlife Conservation and Management Committee (WCMC), Population Management Center (PMC), a PMC Adjunct, or an approved Small Population Management Advisory Group (SPMAG) advisor, and the AZA Conservation & Science Department to complete and distribute a timely and accurate AZA Regional Studbook to be used for demographic and genetic analyses relevant to the SSP Program’s population management.
Sustainability Designations – An initial Studbook, or a Population Viability Analysis (PVA), Breeding and Transfer Plan, or MateRx determines an Animal Program’s (AP’s) designation. Sustainability Designations include Green Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Programs, Yellow SSP Programs, and Red SSP Programs. This list is updated quarterly in the Program Leader Portal on the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) website.
Sustainability Partners – Non-AZA partners that are approved by the Wildlife Conservation and Management Committee (WCMC) and work cooperatively with Green SSP Programs to continue the demographic and genetic sustainability of the species.
Taxon Advisory Group (TAG) Annual Report – Taxon Advisory Group (TAG) Annual Reports update the Wildlife Conservation and Management Committee (WCMC) and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Conservation & Science Department on the conservation work of the TAG, and the Animal Programs (APs) within the TAG’s purview. TAG Annual Reports provide the Chair an opportunity to document and communicate any potential issues within the TAG’s programs, and allow an opportunity for the TAG to submit AP meeting minutes and other materials to AZA on an annual basis. Reports are due to the AZA Conservation & Science Department July 15 of each year.
Taxon Advisory Group (TAG) – Established in 1990, Taxon Advisory Groups (TAGs) examine the conservation and management needs of entire taxa, or groups of related species. TAGs establish priorities for management, research, and conservation. TAGs select appropriate species for AZA conservation and management programs and provide a forum for discussing husbandry, veterinary, ethical, and other issues that apply to entire taxa.
Taxon Advisory Group (TAG) Chair – The primary responsibility of the Taxon Advisory Group (TAG) Chair is to ensure the completion and distribution of a Regional Collection Plan (RCP). Additional responsibilities include leadership of the TAG, organization of its members, oversight and consistent communication with all Animal Programs within the TAG’s purview (Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Program, AZA Regional Studbooks, and Candidate Programs), the Institutional Liaisons (ILs), Institutional Representatives (IRs), and reporting to the Wildlife Conservation and Management Committee (WCMC). The TAG Chair serves as the primary contact and AZA expert for the taxon and abides by the duties and responsibilities defined for the position.
Wildlife Conservation and Management Committee (WCMC) Liaison – Each Taxon Advisory Group (TAG) is assigned one member of the Wildlife Conservation and Management Committee (WCMC) who serves as a liaison for that TAG. WCMC Committee members typically serve as a liaison for 3 TAGs. They communicate with the TAG regularly and serve a crucial advisory role for any policy, procedure, or processes questions the TAG may have, and act as the primary contact and mentor during the TAG’s Regional Collection Plan (RCP) developmental and review process.
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 33 Wildlife Conservation and Management Committee (WCMC) – The Wildlife Conservation and Management Committee (WCMC) works collaboratively with other Committees and is responsible for facilitating the professional and scientific management of the animals cared for in AZA-Accredited zoos and aquariums, Certified Related Facilities, and Approved Non-Member Participants. Committee members serve up to two three-year terms and consist of Directors, Vice Presidents (VPs), curators, and registrars. WCMC develops, oversees, promotes, evaluates, and supports the cooperative animal management, conservation, sustainability, and scientific initiatives of the AZA.
Wildlife Contraception Center (WCC) – The AZA Wildlife Contraception Center (WCC), hosted by the Saint Louis Zoo, is responsible for assessing factors such as contraception type efficacy, reversibility, and safety; an animal’s age, reproductive status, behavioral and social needs, and delivery system practicality when recommending appropriate contraception methods for the animals cared for in AZA-accredited institutions.
Yellow Species Survival Plan® (Yellow SSP) Program – A Yellow Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Program has a population size of 50 or more animals but cannot retain 90% gene diversity for 100 years or 10 generations. Yellow SSP participation by AZA institutions is voluntary.
ALL THINGS WILDLIFE | AN ESSENTIAL ANIMAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR TODAY’S ZOO & AQUARIUM DIRECTOR | 34
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