quarterly publication of the european association of zoos and aquaria

auztumn 2013oo quariaissue 83

Cold comfort The launch of EAZA’s new polar campaign

E TO L P

O

O

P

L

E o

t

Mane event Assessing the African lion 1 1 Biting back Saving the shark from the cosmetics industry

Contents Zooquaria Autumn 2013

18 16 14 D 24 aniel J. C o x/N at ur al Ex pos ur es . com

4 From the Director’s chair 18 Exhibit design Why zoos and aquariums need to shout down the The fabulous new polar bear enclosure at naysayers Copenhagen Zoo 7 Announcements 21 Aquariums A round-up of news from the European zoo world Saving the shark from the cosmetics industry plus the latest births and hatchings 22 Zoo management 10 Campaigns How AZA is helping American zoos improve EAZA’s brand new Pole to Pole campaign begins sustainability right here 24 Conservation 12 Interview How conservation breeding could save a beautiful Meet Robert and Carolyn Buchanan, the driving gecko from the threats of the pet trade force behind many actions towards sustainable

lifestyles 26 Academy Celebrating the achievements of the first two 14 Partnerships years of EAZA Academy An introduction to the Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition 28 Breeding programmes Finding a solution to the problem of sub-specific 16 Education hybridised African lions in zoos Exploring the psychology behind environmental messaging Zooquaria Editorial board: EAZA Executive Office, PO Box 20164, 1000 HD Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Executive Director Lesley Dickie ([email protected]) Email: [email protected] ISSN 2210-3392 Cover image: Walrus © Daniel J. Cox/ Managing Editor Mirko Marseille ([email protected]) NaturalExposures.com Editor Malcolm Tait ([email protected]) For information on print subscriptions to Zooquaria visit: http://tinyurl.com/zooquaria. Editorial Staff Danny de Man, William van Lint The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of EAZA. Designer Louise Tait Printed using vegetable inks on paper containing 50% recycled waste and 50% Zooquaria is the quarterly magazine of the sustainably sourced virgin fibre; bleached using an Elemental Chlorine Free process. European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA). Printed by Drukkerij Valkenstadt 3 from the director’s chair

Follow your instincts Some organisations, misguidedly, think that zoos and aquariums have no place in modern society. For some it is because they support an ideology that means they do not believe it is appropriate to keep animals in captivity for any purpose, to the extent that they would rather that species go extinct than be managed and cared for in a good zoo or aquarium. For others it’s because they cannot see (or refuse to see), that professional zoos and aquariums fulfil an important conservation purpose, suggesting that zoos will not be needed in the future because species will be safe in nature. Really? This seems a hopelessly naive viewpoint if we simply look at the current and worsening situation for the biodiversity of our planet. Pole to Pole campaign which focuses predicted that even though the peak Habitats are being destroyed and on the threats to polar species from will be in 2075, the human population fragmented every day for human climate change and our inability to yet will still stand at 8.97 billion come resource demands. Species are illegally find ways to understand the thorny 2300. In the face of this burgeoning traded and hunted at a frightening rate issue of managing energy sources in a human population it seems churlish in and even legal trade in species, whole sustainable manner. For each of these the extreme, even petulant, not to take or parts, is driving some groups to issues zoos and aquariums have a clear advantage of every responsible way to oblivion. Two articles in this edition and urgent public education role not try and save species and communicate of Zooquaria talk directly about legal easily available to any other sector. about their conservation to the consumer demand for animals or This is of course all happening globe. Why would anyone block off animal products that threaten their at a time when the global human conservation action? It also seems naïve com . future. Why are we still making population is at 7.1 billion and to ignore the likelihood that without face creams out of threatened and estimated to reach 9.22 billion by 2075. zoos and aquariums Aichi Target 1 will declining deep sea sharks when there An extra two billion people needing be nigh-on impossible to achieve – who

al Ex pos ur es are alternatives? Why are species like resources, yet somehow, according else is speaking directly to the public, the electric blue gecko being harvested to the naysayers, species will be OK, face to face, every day, in their millions, ur at x/N

o for the pet trade with little concern and we don’t need the conservation about nature and its conservation, and

J. C J. about their future status? Much of this support of agencies such as zoos and inspiring them with the opportunity

aniel edition is also devoted to the upcoming aquariums. The United Nations has to see animals. Professional zoos 4 D and aquariums know of course that identify which areas in particular they gone to their own mini-extinction. I poor welfare can never be excused by can assist in implementing. for one want to go to mine secure in conservation and that we must always We know what essential direct or the knowledge that I did my best and be striving to ensure that the animals conservation support activities EAZA did not do anything to hinder saving entrusted to us receive the best care. members are undertaking. We know species, and for that we will need more However, it is curious that the support how appreciated these actions are than ever our good zoos and aquariums of the IUCN to professional zoos and by our excellent non-zoo partners in working alongside our partners. aquariums in EAZA is not recognized the field. But we also know that it is I look forward to seeing you all in more widely, that the world’s foremost getting harder and harder to protect Edinburgh at the annual conference. conservation organisation, with species and we could be gloomy about observer status at the United Nations, their future. Let’s not be gloomy. Let’s, does believe that professional zoos and instead, use this as an impetus to aquariums are an important part of the continue our efforts, while combating conservation jigsaw. This is exemplified the negativity of those who wish to stop by the foreword, written by IUCN conservation support from zoos. Sadly, Director General, Julia Marton-Lefevre, those who attack us will ultimately to the new EAZA Strategy 2013-2016 never take responsibility for reduced Dr Lesley Dickie and I would commend all EAZA funds and efforts towards conservation, Executive Director, EAZA members to read this document and or for losses of species – they will have 5 It’s wet. It’s hot. It’s refreshing.

Tours Seminars Products Presentations Forums

Join more than 350 exhibitors showcasing products in more than 100 categories: from theming companies to playgrounds, from ticket systems to food and beverage trends, there is something for everyone. Learn from some of the leading leisure facility managers in Europe in the extensive conference programme with presentations on unique accommodation offers, storytelling, sustainability, and much more. And meet with more than 8.000 industry professionals and exchange ideas and experiences. Don’t miss Europe’s premier event 6 for the leisure industry. Visit www.IAAPA.org.EAS for more information. announcements

noticeboard New journal launch

Wednesday 24 July 2013 will be remembered as a journal of zoo and historic day, not just for EAZA, aquarium research but also, and primarily, for the ISSN 2214-7594 • september 2013 • volume one • issue one global zoo community. On AB Aqua Medic GmbH (www.aqua-medic.de) this day the Journal of Zoo AQUA-TEKNIK A/S (www.aqua-teknik.com) and Aquarium Research Base Structures Ltd (www.basestructures.com) (JZAR) published its first Billings Productions (www.billingsproductions.com) issue online. A significant Brogaarden (www.brogaarden.eu) advance for EAZA, the CelsiusPro AG (www.celsiuspro.com) launch of this journal in Claxitalia (www.claxitalia.com) itself is not the most Doublecheck Oy (www.doublezoo.com) noteworthy aspect. JZAR is Dowman Soft Touch (www.dowman.com) the first and – so far – the EKIPA (www.ekipa.nl) only scientific journal that Fachjan Project Plants (www.fachjan.nl) focuses on zoo-based HMJ Design (www.hmj-design.dk) research AND is fully Open Instituto Bioclon (www.bioclon.com.mx) Access with NO author Jardine Lloyd Thompson Leisure (www.jltgroup.com) contributions. The journal Kiezebrink International (www.kiezebrink.eu) is freely available to Mapcards (www.mapcards.net) anyone interested in zoos Mazuri Zoo Foods (www.mazuri.eu) and zoo research in Pangea Rocks (www.pangea.dk) particular, and anyone pricetag (www.pricetag.nl) can contribute research Published by EAZA ZAR Jwww.jzar.org Ralf Nature (www.ralfnature.com) papers free of charge. Rasbach Architekten (www.rasbacharchitekten.de) Most of the work is done by Ravensden Plc (www.ravensden.co.uk) research staff of EAZA member zoos, ray hole architects (www.rayhole-architects.com) and everything that has to be paid for is interventions will improve global St. Laurent (www.st-laurent.fr) covered by EAZA. management of living collections. The Triumph Gate Ltd (www.triumphgate.org) So what’s JZAR all about? JZAR vision is that the assessment and Wildlife Trading Company (www.wctnm.com) provides a forum for rapid publication dissemination of the effectiveness of Zoolife s.l (www.zoologicaladviser.com) of conservation-related research, with a husbandry actions will become a ZOOPROFIS (www.zooprofis.de) focus on novel, peer-reviewed research routine part of zoological management ZooTrend (www.zootrend.com) papers, review papers, technical reports practice. Zoos Online Services (www.zoos.pro) and evidence-based case studies. The concept of developing an EAZA Research categories covered by JZAR scientific journal was spearheaded by include studies in pure and applied the EAZA Research Committee. In 2008 community and academic researchers biological sciences (eg behaviour, the committee published the EAZA interested in zoo research. The first issue genetics, medicine, nutrition, Research Strategy, paving the way for of JZAR was produced by members of population management and an increase in research activities or the EAZA Research Committee and the reproduction), in situ conservation research participation by zoos. At the BIAZA Research Committee who made research (eg socio-economic and field same time it was recognised that a up the interim editorial board. As of the surveys) and research aimed at major difficulty with implementing this second issue JZAR will be published developing other roles of zoos and strategy was ineffective communication under the expert guidance of our new aquariums (eg visitor learning and of research results. Zoos globally are Managing Editor, Eluned Price from marketing surveys). A section of the involved in research activities, but a Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust. The journal will be devoted to submissions huge amount of that never gets majority of the interim editorial board of original, previously unpublished, published or communicated in any way will stay on as section editors and the case studies documenting the effects of to other zoo staff or to the scientific Editorial Board will be expanded during husbandry interventions. Evidence- community, and ends up on a dusty the second half of 2013. based husbandry for living collections shelf, never to be seen again. For many JZAR will be published quarterly. If aims to apply the best available zoos, access to scientific journals has you are interested in learning about the evidence gained from the scientific been too expensive for their limited wonderful world of zoo science or you method to decision-making. Sharing budgets and the idea for an open access have the urge to submit a research knowledge about the effects of journal was conceived. Now JZAR has article, please visit the journal website management and/or husbandry finally arrived to serve the zoo www.jzar.org. 7 announcements

noticeboard/births & hatchings Hands across the water EAZA and our colleagues in AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) in America have worked together closely for a number of years and now that relationship has become even more collaborative. In April EAZA and AZA signed a formal Memorandum of Understanding in which we jointly set out The Amazing Amazilia the ways we can work together into the future. This follows on from the success of Hummingbirds are rarely kept in monitor the breeding behaviour by other MoUs such as those with ALPZA and zoos because of their specific needs, write placing a camera above her nest. She laid EAZWV. Hanne van Bavel and Diego C. Rubiano two fertilized eggs and incubated them The EAZA-AZA MoU will initially last for Franco, Weltvogelpark Walsrode. One of perfectly, and on the morning of 8 five years and will explore areas where we the better known species is the Amazilia December, we were delighted to find one can work together more strategically for hummingbird (Amazilia amazilia), which healthy looking chick in her nest! The the benefit of both of our associations. occurs in Western Peru and Ecuador. second chick followed a few hours later. More specifically the MoU sets out ways in They have been bred in some Sadly, one died after 12 days when it got which we can work more closely to ensure institutions, but it remains very difficult to some food stuck in its trachea while being sustainability of populations, reflecting the maintain a sustainable population in fed by the mother, but the second chick ongoing work of both EAZA and AZA TAGs captivity. In 2011, Weltvogelpark Walsrode flourished. and programmes. This MoU also recognizes had the opportunity to start an Amazilia This March, another egg was laid which the complementary strengths of AZA and hummingbird breeding project. We we incubated, this time to great success. EAZA in public messaging of nature designed a room where the light cycle, air We hand-reared it with fruit flies soaked in conservation, continuous professional inflow, temperature and humidity are isotonic water, supplemented with nectar development of collective community artificially controlled, and inO ctober 2011 and, once it was fully independent, it was staff via both our training programmes, the first birds arrived. After a false start in moved to a small aviary where it could and conservation science, which will be 2012, when three eggs were laid but practise its flying skills. explored for additional, future unfertilized, we paired the female with a This chick wasn’t the end of our opportunities to collaborate. different male. In August last year they breeding success. In fact, five futher chicks Some collaborations already stimulated laid an egg which we hatched in an have successfully hatched and fledged, of by this MoU include the agreement of Dr incubator. We hand-reared the chick which three were raised by their mother. Paul Boyle, AZA Senior Vice President for (which only weighed 0.37g!) but it died on Weltvogelpark Walsrode is very proud of Conservation and Education, to sit on the the third day. this accomplishment, and of course we Advisory Board of our new EAZA Journal of In November, one of our females hope our efforts to breed these little birds Zoo and Aquarium Research. Paul has starting laying again. We were able to will keep paying off in the future. many years of research experience and will add valuable insight to this panel given his extensive aquarium knowledge. Teams work The upcoming Pole to Pole campaign EAZA and Clax Italia, one of our great Corporate Members, have entered will also benefit from the closer relationship into a new partnership that will reap dividends. Clax Italia, which manufactures, designs with AZA. AZA will be undertaking their and fits small to huge acrylic panels, has generously agreed to donate monies to EAZA work on the communication of climate with every order made by an EAZA member to Clax Italia, either directly or when using change and sustainable living under the Clax Italia acrylics ordered via a contractor. These donations will go to support our banner of Pole to Pole and in this edition of strategic work with a particular initial focus to outreach and training. Zooquaria they have provided an article Lesley Dickie and Myfanwy Griffith of the EAZA Executive Office recently visited the about the development of their ‘green Clax Italia headquarters in Rome where they had a tour of the factory and further guides’ for AZA members, helping them to discussions about the agreement. Clax Italia make the acrylic panels to order on their promote sustainable practice to their site and have some ambitious and interesting aquarium projects in mid-design. Clax visitors but more specifically their own Italia also made clear how proud they were of their membership with not only the Italian facilities – ‘walking the talk’. and EU flags flying outside their headquarters but also theD utch and EAZA flags in We will be jointly examining where our honour of the visit – plus their newly designed staff uniform also carries the EAZA logo policies overlap or where policies can be on the sleeve. jointly agreed to meet our respective We thank Clax Italia for this fantastic support of the association. If you are designing a strategic aims and these talks will continue

o new exhibit that has an acrylic requirement then please contact Clax Italia, your fellow in Edinburgh with representatives from EAZA member, to discuss the possibilities (www.claxitalia.com). AZA attending the annual conference. 8 s u ne k noticeboard/births & hatchings

EAZA would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to Daniel Cox of Natural Exposures for allowing us to use his amazing photographs in the Pole to Pole campaign and in this edition of Zooquaria to promote the launch of the campaign. Daniel has been fascinated by, and in turn, enthusiastically documenting the natural word for nearly 30 years and in addition inspires other to take action for wildlife and nature via his images. He has worked with Polar Bears International (PBI) since 2004 as part of their advisory council and he and his colleagues at Natural Exposures devote hundreds of hours of their own time and their images to PBI to promote Arctic conservation. To that end Daniel recently established the Arctic Documentary Project (ADP), a joint effort between Daniel and Polar Bears International. In addition to documenting arctic animals and their ecosystems, the ADP is producing multi-media materials on some of the world’s leading arctic scientists as they conduct fieldwork. All of the still images and video content become part of the PBI Multimedia Library which is available free of charge to educational institutions around the world that qualify for PBI’s nonprofit media program. Daniel was recently honoured as the 2013 Outstanding Nature Photographer of the Year by the North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA). He’s been awarded in competitions worldwide including the BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year and Nature’s Best. Images are powerful, as we see throughout this edition of Zooquaria, and Daniel’s images will ensure that Pole to Pole is a visually striking and hopefully thought provoking campaign.

First European reproduction of Philippine crocodile In July 2013, the first reproduction of the Philippine which was discovered on 2 May, and probably laid around 25 crocodile (Crocodylus mindorensis) took place at the Cologne April. Artificial incubation took place at two temperatures (28.5 Zoo Aquarium, becoming the first breeding success of the to 29.5 versus 31.5 to 32.5°C; up to 97 % humidity). The two species in Europe, write Thomas Ziegler, Karin van der Straeten, eggs incubated at lower temperatures were opened on 13 and Anna Rauhaus, Detlef Karbe and Ralf Sommerlad of Cologne Zoo. 14 July 2013 (days 79 to 80) after hatchling calls emerged, while This Critically Endangered reptile is among the rarest the two remaining eggs remained under artificial incubation. crocodilians in the world and the Crocodile Specialist Group Both young hatched by that point proved to be healthy. strongly recommended ex situ management. This is the first breeding success for Mindo (dam, 15 years) The parents of the hatchlings derived from a Philippine and Pinoy (sire, 13 years) and a significant contribution to the breeding facility and reached Cologne Zoo as a loan from the ESB population, coordinated by Cologne Zoo. Cologne Zoo is Philippine government in 2007. The couple was kept separated also involved with ethological research of captive Philippine for most of the time, due to somewhat aggressive behaviour. crocodiles. Prior to copulation attempts a genetic screening However, many facilities that could be separated and continued was performed to prove purity of breeding and exclude target training enabled the team to bringing the crocodiles potential hybrid specimens from the ESB. Besides financial together from time to time. support of in situ crocodile conservation activities in the

u s The first copulations occurred in early 2012, but without egg Philippines (Mabuwaya Foundation), Cologne Zoo also u ha deposition. Copulations from February to May 2013 finally led implements in situ natural history crocodile research in Vietnam Ra to a clutch of 10 eggs (of which six were deformed or infertile) and Borneo.

A nna 9 Campaigns Pole to Pole

campaign,

2013-2015

This is a campaign with a difference. To save the poles, we must change people’s lifestyles. It’s up to you

Jose Kok, Chair, Pole to Pole Campaign

The Poles are under threat. The polar going to ask people to change their bear and king penguin are the ‘symbols’ behaviour, you need to show that for conservation challenges in the you’re leading the way yourself. The Arctic and Antarctic, and in particular Pole to Pole campaign is the launch the spectre of climate change which is pad for developing a policy on how more acute at the poles than anywhere to prepare and run as near a carbon- else on the planet. neutral campaign as possible. Yet although the polar bear and How do we as zoos ask our visitors to king penguin are our chosen icons, just ‘Pull the Plug’? We show them what we as with any other delicate ecosystem do in order to save energy and develop there are many more species in the a more sustainable conduct of business Arctic and Antarctic that are under ourselves. threat. Donations will not save the Numbers count! Large numbers Poles, altering your lifestyle by making create the desired snowball effect some simple changes will. and when people speak in sufficient This campaign is about the Poles; numbers decision-makers take notice. the wonderfully varied species living With this camapign we can address

there and the threats they face. politicians to reduce CO2 emissions! It’s a campaign focusing on Taking action is not difficult; in fact EVERYONE and how small changes in if you share your actions and stimulate our behaviour can help polar species. others it can be great fun!

Save energy, save money, reduce

CO2 emissions… Get sustainable Teaming up Experts from the International Union Participation is simple. Take action for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and ‘Pull the plug’. Unplug one or are involved, together with the more of your electronic devices when Arctic Action Team (AAT), Polar Bears they are not in use at the wall rather International (PBI), the Antarctic and than leaving them on standby. Southern Ocean Coalition (ASOC) EAZA zoos can reach 135,000,000 and Groningen University (RUG). visitors per year! If you alone unplug It is amazing to see how many your mobile phone charger it saves organisations work for sustainability ‘only’ 0.009 kWh per day. If all EAZA and how little is shared or pooled zoo visitors do that we together save together. The Pole to Pole website 1,215,000 kWh. That’s enough energy will provide not only all (scientific) to leave 1,215,000 bulbs of 1,000 watts information, visitors resources and r schwamme y burning for one hour. You save money species factsheets. It will also list by saving energy and in the meantime examples of what individuals, NGOs,

you reduce your CO2 output! zoos, communities do. Inspiring g; Gabb g; stelvi Setting a good example is very examples for you and your zoo. important in this campaign. If you’re 10 mi kk el 11 Meet the Buchanans

The efforts of Robert and Carolyn Buchanan seamlessly combine with EAZA’s Pole to Pole campaign and its aim to get as many zoos and aquariums and their visitors involved in energy saving activities. Here we find out more about them and, opposite, we interview Robert himself

What do you do when you love polar bears and their habitat. With that about polar bear conservation and bears, have the chance to see them live mission, PBI has attracted some of the climate change into all AZA zoos. It in their own habitat for many successive world’s finest scientists, zoologists, land also encourages the regular exchange years yet witness how they literally management professionals, eco-tour of research between zoologists and drown or are affected in other ways operators, educators, government scientists who study polar bears in the by rapid climate change? Some turn agencies and other NGOs. wild. EAZA has now also signed an around and do what they did before. Under Robert’s leadership, PBI has MoU with PBI for the duration of the Others take action. Robert and Carolyn grown into an organisation with an Pole to Pole campaign. Buchanan are the driving force behind international scope, supporting projects It became increasingly obvious that many actions to make people take throughout the circumpolar North. when you save the polar bear you action for a more sustainable lifestyle. Funding provided by PBI helped support save so many other different species. It was during repeat trips to the Arctic research that led to the listing of the Realising this, Robert and Carolyn that Robert Buchanan first discovered polar bear as a threatened species by decided to focus their energies on how his marketing and finance expertise the US government. PBI is so well- changing the mindset of how humans could be of assistance to world-leading respected by scientists that it was one of care for this planet. No one seems to polar bear and Arctic researchers. just two conservation groups invited to disagree that it is imperative that we In 2000, he was asked to create a the recent IUCN Polar Bear Specialist leave this planet with clean air and development plan for the fledgling Group meeting. Most recently, thanks clean water. To that end, the Arctic conservation group, Polar Bears Alive. to the vision and leadership of both Action Teams (AAT) were formed. After a year’s in-depth research, Polar Robert and Carolyn, PBI signed an The focus is to make zoos and Bears International (PBI) was born as MoU with the Association of Zoos and aquariums the centres of conservation an organisation with a focus on polar Aquariums and Canadian Association communication for their communities bear research and proactive education of Zoos and Aquariums that will by inspiring and creating action to help on how to conserve the great white introduce educational materials achieve these goals.

12

Robert Buchanan

Position: Founder of Polar Bears International and Arctic Action Teams Hobbies: Marketing Last book read: Team of Rivals Doris Kearns Goodwin Last movie seen: Argo Last concert attended: Cannot remember! Last trip made abroad: May 2013 to Amsterdam then Rhenen for 2013 Bear in Mind conference

Questions: A dozen years or so ago, the polar bear became a focus of your work. Could you describe your background up until that point? I spent 35 years with Joseph E Seagram & Sons in marketing and product development. These skills led me to look for a way to give back to this great planet. sustainability groups and government agencies How did those existing skills and experiences with a focus on clean air and water. A community influence and benefit your polar work? that is progressive on sustainability issues attracts My wife and I fell in love with the Arctic over 30 young professionals to become residents, bringing years ago. We quickly understood tht the polar bear the brainpower necessary to create the green scientists were not getting their message through to economy that will lead to economic and ecological the general public. Using the marketing skills taught success for communities, countries, and the me by J.E.S. we were able to work toward creating world. the polar bear as the iconic species for climate In partnership with myActions (myActions.org), change. our short term goal is to create one million actions between September 2013 and April 22, 2014. On What are the key visions of Polar Bears this Earth Day each community, institution, or International? business will be able to celebrate by showcasing It is an organisation with a focus on polar bear their actions so that future generations will be able research and proactive education on how to to enjoy all the wonderful flora and fauna that this conserve the great white bears and their habitat. planet can provide.

You’ve set up Arctic Action Teams: why is this, In which ways does polar conservation work and what do you hope to achieve with them? symbolise the global effort to look after the In today’s world there is a huge need for hope, planet? whether it’s economic challenges, governmental When you save the polar bear you save so many issues, or environmental health and well-being. It is other species! the Arctic Action Teams’ belief and experience that hope can be inspired when individuals take action How can zoos and aquariums help bring those in ways that matter and are recognised for it. We visions about? have found that the more we showcase and thank They are the geographic centres of conservation for those who are creating action, the stronger their their communities, with millions of people that go commitment is to achieving change and thereby through them each year. generating hope. We believe that zoos and aquariums are the best What excites you about EAZA’s Pole to Pole fit to showcase community action on sustainability. campaign? In the United States alone, 175 million people visit Its teamwork as well as its ability to change AZA facilities in any given year. These centres of communities into becoming an integral part of conservation have the capability to unite community sustainability for future generations. 13 partnerships

South-facing view An introduction to ASOC, the Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition which welcomes EAZA’s new Pole to Pole campaign

Ricardo Roura, Senior Advisor, ASOC , José Kok, Chair Pole to Pole Campaign

ASOC (1978) is a global network of environmental groups working on Antarctic environmental protection. It has 24 full member groups in 10 countries and supporting groups in those and several other countries. ASOC believes that the continent and its surrounding ocean are the natural heritage of all humankind and seek to ensure that Antarctic ecosystems – both terrestrial and marine – remain protected and intact. Present campaigns include negotiation of a legally-binding Polar Code regulating all vessels operating in the Antarctic; establishing a representative network of marine reserves by 2012, including Marine Protected Area status for the Ross Sea; managing Southern Ocean Fisheries sustainably; regulating Antarctic tourism and biological prospecting; strengthening the Southern Ocean Whale Sanctuary; a fundamental role in the early life ocean acidification. Human presence and monitoring implementation of the stages of krill, the shrimp-crustacean in the region has resulted in a range of Environment Protocol to the Antarctic upon which fish and other top environmental impacts: introduction of Treaty. Generally ASOC works in all predators feed. Local and regional non-native species (including humans aspects of Antarctic governance that human pressures such as tourism and, themselves), site-specific impacts influence environmental protection in particular, industrial fishing can caused by tourism, and impacts on the add to the effects of climate change marine environment caused by sealing, Threats to the Antarctic and cause substantive additional whaling, and fishing. Climate change has the potential effects, for instance on local penguin The history of exploitation has of introducing profound changes to populations. In this context, the been characterised by successive the marine ecosystem where the vast establishment of large marine protected bouts of resource extraction, followed majority of Antarctic wildlife lives, areas is of great importance, as they by a collapse of target populations. through inter alia ocean acidification may serve as refuges for ice dependent Exploitation dates to the late 18th and the melting of seasonal sea species and as reference areas to century, when sealing began in the ice. These changes may affect the understand how ecosystem processes islands surrounding the Antarctic. Antarctic food chain as sea ice plays are influenced by climate change and Over a period of 150 years, seals, then com .

Who is Ricardo?

al Ex pos ur es As senior advisor for ASOC, Ricardo Roura serves as representative in the Committee for Environmental Protection. He works on tourism, protected areas,

ur at x/N environmental impact assessment, and biological prospecting. During his study o

J. C J. (Geology) he became involved with the Greenpeace Antarctic campaign which was aiming to overturn the minerals regime that at the time was being negotiated aniel ; D ;

a by Antarctic Treaty states. After a Master in Philosophy he completed his PhD at the Arctic Centre of the University of Groningen. Ricardo is interested in the r o ur interaction between people and the natural environment in the Polar Regions.

14 r ica r do

South-facing view

whales, and then some species of airstrips, as well as fishing. is another very important issue. finfish took a heavy blow. Some whale An additional problem comes from This however requires political will and finfish species have never fully gaps in the overlap of the various and a strategic perspective among recovered from being overexploited in regimes that govern activities in the decision-makers. National interests decades past. Antarctic region – whaling, fishing, are sometimes stronger than the The exploitation of mineral shipping, and most other activities common interest of the international resources is prohibited by the 1991 are covered by different international community. Protocol of Environmental Protection treaties in which the environment is EAZA zoos and aquariums can act as to the Antarctic Treaty. Positive given varying degrees of importance. platforms to raise awareness about the effects, however, are mitigated by poor Antarctic among the general public. implementation of environmental What can we do? However, it would be important to agreements, illegal fishing, so-called People can help to reduce turn public interest and awareness com . scientific whaling, and a lack of environmental impacts related to into action on key environmental comprehensive regulation for activities climate change by minimising their issues, for instance through direct such as tourism. Furthermore, the footprint and pushing decision-makers communication from members of

al Ex pos ur es geopolitics of presence encourages to take action. Minimising human the public to decision-makers. When the development of Antarctic activities in the region, preventing people speak in sufficient numbers ur at x/N

o infrastructure such as new research and mitigating their impacts, and decision-makers take notice.

J. C J. stations in pristine sites, maintained establishing protected areas, both on For more on ASOC, please visit

aniel roads traversing the continent and land and on the marine environment www.asoc.org. D 15 Education Natural behaviours Can the messages behind Pole to Pole change people’s behaviour? Zooquaria spoke to Linda Steg, Professor of environmental psychology at the University of Groningen

What is your background/education? Is it possible to change people’s What do you believe to be the best I received my PhD in Psychological, behaviour in favour of nature? way to make people act? Pedagogical, and Sociological Sciences Yes, but not all strategies are equally Strengthen and activate their at the University of Groningen in 1991. effective. environmental values and make sure Before that, I studied adult education at that pro-environmental actions are the University of Groningen. What scientific proof is there? not too costly or inconvenient. A lot. Provision of information What is your professional passion? as such is mostly not effective. Does the social economic status of Understanding why people act pro- Information is more effective if it is target groups have any relevance? environmentally, even though this tailored to one’s personal situation, It depends, but does so particularly may be somewhat costly, and which and when it resonates with one’s key when investments are needed (eg factors inhibit pro-environmental values. Many other strategies have some pro-environmental actions are actions. I learn new things about human proved to be effective, eg asking rather expensive). motivation and behaviour every day, people to commit themselves to which is very inspiring. change their behaviour, particularly Do you think visitors are more if this is combined with a so-called likely to act because they are What kind of research is done at the implementation intention, in which emotionally triggered by species in your faculty? people specify how, when and where a zoo or aquarium? Within environmental psychology, they will engage in the relevant pro- They might be, if they realise that by many different research projects are environmental action. Also, a block acting pro-environmentally, they may conducted. Our main interest is to leaders approach proved to be rather protect the species. understand what motivates people to effective – this involves a person in do the right thing, and how we can the relevant community helping to Are there cultural differences? encourage pro-environmental actions. deliver interventions to the target People in every culture endorse We examine factors influencing pro- group. environmental values. They may not environmental actions, and the effects Feedback on one’s performance has always act upon them, depending and acceptability of environmental proved to be effective, particularly upon cultural factors (eg in some policies. We study individual behaviour if this feedback is tailored to the cultures eating meat is very common and behaviour in local communities individual situation, and when the while in other countries it is not) and as well as environmental behaviour information provided is important situational differences (eg climate, at work. We also study the effects of to people given their values. infrastructure). nature, environmental conditions and Additionally, changes in the choice behaviour on well-being. situations can be implemented as What possible barriers are there More specifically, we study to what to make pro-environmental choices that stop people from changing extent and under which circumstances relatively more attractive, eg via their behaviour? knowledge affects pro-environmental pricing strategies (eg subsidies, Many. Sometimes acting pro- actions. Furthermore, we study which taxes), provision of facilities (eg environmentally may be rather factors affect one’s environmental bottle bank), laws (eg prohibit costly or inconvenient (eg self-identity, and how this identity regular light bulbs) and technology investment behaviour, or cycling in turn affects pro-environmental (eg energy efficient appliances). rather than driving long distances), choices. We also study how values but sometimes acting pro- affect our evaluations and acceptability Why exactly are people prepared to environmentally may have other of energy sources and, more broadly, change behaviour for the benefit benefits as well (eg saving electricity pro-environmental actions. In addition, of the environment? What is their saves money, and some people enjoy we study emotional responses to main motivation? cycling). environmental issues, behaviour, and Many people care about the feedback, and how these emotions affect environment, and are motivated Will the Pole to Pole ‘Pull the Plug’ environmental choices. to protect it. They are particularly work? We study which psychological likely to act upon this motivation That is what we aim to find out. We factors affect the adoption of electric when pro-environmental actions are expect that if we implement elements vehicles. Finally, we study how (signs not too costly, and do not seriously from my response to the question of) behaviour of others affect individual inhibit fulfilment of other values that ‘what scientific proof is there’, the 16 pro-environmental actions. people find important as well. effects may be enhanced.

17 Exhibit design Ring of bright water .

18 Sør ensen H en r i k Copenhagen Zoo’s new Arctic Ring exhibit gives visitors the chance to see polar bears as never before

Bengt Holst, Vice-Director, Copenhagen Zoo

Have you ever seen polar bears swimming under or swimming into nowhere. It’s a strange but very water? If not, you should. It’s a fantastic sight authentic feeling. Here you can also watch the polar and one that makes this magnificent species even bears playing with whatever they have been given more magnificent. And that is what you can now to play with. Often the bears get horse or cow heads experience in the newly opened Arctic Ring at that they carry around, explore, try to catch on land, Copenhagen Zoo. try to jump on when they are swimming in the water When approaching the Arctic Ring you can and so on, and they can spend hours on this activity. initially see polar bears in an arctic summer The heads are exchanged with other items regularly landscape from a distance. The landscape has been in order to maintain a renewal process which keeps formed to resemble the coastline of Greenland with the interest high, and it is obvious that the polar rocks, pebbles and a few arctic plants, mostly shrubs. bears like playing with these items. Separated only by a deep cleft you stand face to face If you can break away from this exciting sight you with these enormous carnivores in their naturalistic will continue further into the house and enter an environment. The keepers hide food items in this acrylic tunnel going through the pool. Water is 7m area every day, smear special smells on the stones deep in this area, and you can watch the polar bears and plants and make sure it is as stimulating as approaching from a distance, starting as a ghostlike possible for the bears. At the back of the enclosure shadow coming around a rock at the far end and there are two freshwater pools that can be used as changing into a beautiful polar bear when getting drinking water, and close to the exhibition house is closer. Here you can see the bears under water as the great saltwater pool containing 2,500m3 water. they get really close to you. They swim over and You continue your trip through the Arctic along under the tunnel, sit on the tunnel or dive down a twisted path leading you further down and into to the bottom of the pool to pick up a fish or other the house where most of the interpretation is interesting object. The bears often stay for a while in situated. On your way down you pass by a window this area, playing with and around the tunnel, and next to one of the freshwater pools. Here you can you get plenty of good opportunities to study the see the bears close up, drinking or just playing with animals’ movements, their huge paws and their fur the water. that moves like kelp in the ocean. And if you turn As soon as you enter the house you stand in front around you have the chance to see the preferred of a huge 15cm thick, 8m long and 3m high acrylic prey of the polar bear – seals. A special common window where you can enjoy seeing the polar bears seal enclosure is situated just next to the polar bears swimming under water. This part is connected so that they can see each other, but of course not to the outer pool, and polar bears can be seen touch. A 15cm thick acrylic window separates the swimming round the rocks, coming from nowhere, two, but they can – and do – interact through the

19 Exhibit design

sælbassin akryltunnel fuglefjeld og udstilling

polarhavsrummet

udgang indgang

isbjø lev rne Ark est n tis e s om r et ed råd af d er p et m f å jo est akt rden kold • a . He e og den r le ba • mø ver rsk tem rke v isb e • pera inte jørn om ture r va en • vint n fa rer 9 . om eren lde -10 • som er r oft mån so me land e til ede mm ren og und r • so erte er d hav er - mm mp er m dæ 40 • d ere erat idn kket grad er v n va uren atss af er • p okse rer k kom ol is og lant r ikk un 2 me sne • ern e tr -3 m r sjæ plan e ka æer ån lde • tern n ku på ede nt pla e e n v Arkt r over • nter r ikk okse is - 12 g dy ne v e hø et det rad reliv oks jere par er fo er et p er d en mån r ko å A øgn d kn ede ldt th rktis et r æh r om e h er und øjde år Th abit man t om et e Arc at o gfol som plac tic is f th digt m es on am e p eren fa Ear ong t ola cts th. Th he co r be • Th is is ldes ar • e da wher t and The rk w e the hars • D tem inter pola hest urin pera lasts r be • M g wi ture 9-10 ar liv • idnig nter often mo es. In th ht su the g dro nths • S e su n oc roun ps to • umm mme curs d an min No er o r tem durin d th us 40 • tree nly la per g th e sea ° de Plan s gro sts 2 atur e su is c gree • T ts ca w in -3 m es do mme overe s Cel • he pl n on the onth es se r d by sius The ants ly gro Arcti s ldom ice a • pla are u w fo c reg exc nd s Wild nts g p to r a c ion - eed now life i row the oupl it is 12° d n the 24 h knee e of too egre Arc ours s at mon cold. es Ce tic re a da the m ths d lsiu gion y dur ost urin s is ve ing s g the ry di umm year verse er

isbjørnebassin

isbjørneanlæg

The ring in numbers The Arctic Ring was developed in cooperation with the architects Dall & Linhardtsen A/S and was donated to the Zoo by the A.P. Møller and Chastine Mc-Kinney Møller’s Foundation for General Purposes. Total price: ~ €20 million. The Arctic Ring was opened on 5 February 2013 and at once generated greatly increased visitation. Land area: 720sq m • Pool: 330sq m • Water volume: 2,500m3 • Visitor area inside: 435sq m • Visitor area outside: 535sq m • Technique and service area: 746sq m

window. And if they don’t feel so kept below 20 degrees by keeping inclined they can just swim away; the water temperature at 10 degrees both pools are big enough for their and by having lots of ventilation. animals to move away from each The visitors can enjoy watching other. the birds both above and under During the first weeks after the water and can watch them diving opening of the Arctic Ring this into the water from the cliffs. place was a true bottleneck. People There are three species: common stayed to watch the polar bears up murre (Uria aalge), razorbill (Alca close and didn’t want to move away. torda) and Atlantic puffin Fratercula( So, we had to station people at both arctica). The puffins were brought to ends of the tunnel to keep the traffic Copenhagen as eggs collected from one going and let everyone enjoy the exciting of the major bird cliffs in the Faroe Islands experience. But even that could be turned into and as the result of a joint agreement with the a positive thing since we then took this opportunity to tell local ‘puffin association’ that actually owns the rights to visitors about the polar bears while they were waiting. Today, egg collecting on that particular cliff. Forty-eight eggs four months later, it is not a problem. There are still plenty were brought back of which 18 hatched in the zoo. This of people going through the house daily, but there’s now a year three pairs have already entered their nests and are balance so that we don’t have a bottleneck effect anymore. defending the site fiercely. So, we are very optimistic for After the tunnel visitors enter the interpretation hall future breeding possibilities. where we tell the story of the polar bear as a lonely hunter, Leaving the interpretation hall visitors continue along its adaptations to a life in the Arctic, the insulation power a narrow path where they can experience the wonderful of its fur and more. All interpretation is done through colours and patterns of the Northern Lights and finish one interactive displays where kids – and adults – can play their level up where you can look into the polar bear enclosure way through the life of a polar bear. again, half under water and half above so that they can This is also the hall where you can experience the life see the bears walking on the barren grounds, jumping into of a bird cliff. Opposite to all the interactive displays we the water and swimming. At the same level is a platform have built a copy of a bird cliff from the Faroe Islands in offering a fine view of the bird cliff – a good place to relax the Atlantic. A steep cliff, partly overgrown with green and just enjoy the animals. From there visitors end their grass, dips down into a 1.5m deep pool containing saltwater tour through the Arctic and exit the house just next to pete r sen as does the big polar bear pool. In order to decrease the a big glass window where they can watch the polar bears risk of infectious diseases the temperature in the room is digging their sleeping hollow or for food. 20 michael Aquariums The beauty of sharks An unusual combination of zoo and department store is fighting to keep shark oil out of cosmetics Fiona Llewellyn, Zoological Society of London

Would you like to rub oil from the liver 19th century anatomists’ view of the gulper shark of endangered deep-sea sharks on your face? Given the choice, the answer to this question is usually ‘no’. The trouble is – we’re not currently given the choice. Most people don’t even know that shark oil is used in the beauty industry, and for those of us that do, there’s really no easy way to tell if it’s in the products you’re buying or not. ‘Squalene’ is the name of the ingredient we’re talking about. It’s an organic compound, often used as an oldest zoological society – The using the equally effective plant-based emollient in face creams and lotions Zoological Society of London (ZSL) alternatives. and it can be extracted from the liver – and one of the UK’s most luxurious There have been some really positive oil of sharks. The good news is that department stores – Selfridges. changes for sharks over the past few it can also be extracted from plant- Established in 2011, Project Ocean years, such as the introduction of various based sources, such as olives, wheat has two key messages: vote with your finning bans across the world (including germ amaranth seeds and rice bran. fork by eating only sustainable fish, in European waters), the setting of zero The bad news is that manufacturers do and support the creation of more ‘Total Allowable Catch’ levels for some not have to specify the source of these marine protected areas (MPAs). After vulnerable species in different regions, ingredients. So the consumer can read the initial success of their ‘No more and the addition of further shark species that a product contains squalene but fish in the sea’ campaign to encourage – hammerheads (Sphyrinidae), porbeagle has no idea whether it’s plant-derived, consumers to buy only sustainable fish, (Lamna nasus), and oceanic white tip or whether they’re unintentionally Selfridges has turned its attention to its (Carcharhinus longimanus) – to Annex slapping dead shark on their face. It Beauty Department. II of the Convention on International was hoped that a new EU Regulation Earlier this summer, Selfridges’ Trade in Endangered Species earlier this on Cosmetics (Regulation (EC) No Oxford Street store in London ran year. But there’s still a very long way to 1223/2009) that entered into force on the ‘Save our Sharks’ campaign, go – recent estimates suggest humans 11 July 2013, would resolve this issue encouraging customers, partner brands are killing up to 100 million sharks by addressing the rules on labelling. and fellow retailers to recognise every year. Unfortunately, however, the rules the importance of sharks to the We would like to see an end to the were not strengthened, meaning the environment, and to understand the unsustainable and unnecessary practice consumer is still in the dark. And it’s threats they face. With the help of of using shark liver oil in beauty not just an EU problem – it’s the same ZSL and the international marine products. However, until regulators take the world over. conservation organisation, Oceana, notice and sort out the hugely confusing It’s not good news for the sharks Selfridges carried out an extensive and unclear labelling of these products, either. Deep-sea species, such as the audit of its beauty and health it will continue. Consumers have the Portuguese dogfish Centroscymnus( concessions, removing any products right to make an informed decision coelolepis) and gulper shark containing shark oil and shark by- about what they’re buying – and what (Centrophorus granulosus), are targeted products. they’re putting into and onto their because of their large livers. These With its beauty shelves now bodies. We hope that other retailers will species are particularly slow-growing, 100% free of shark-derived squalene, follow Selfridges, shedding light on the with low reproductive potential. It Selfridges is leading the way, working issue, reducing the demand for shark takes around 3,000 sharks to produce with brands to raise awareness of the oil and ultimately helping to ensure a just one ton of squalene. With a global issue, and encouraging reformulation sustainable future for these species. market of 1,000 to 2,000 tons per year, we’re looking at the killing of 6 million Team works .J. (1841) .J. sharks every year for this trade alone. G As part of the Project Ocean campaign, Selfridges also supports the Marine It’s unsustainable and unnecessary. Reserves Coalition, a group of five organisations working collaboratively So what’s being done to tackle the for the establishment of fully protected marine reserves. Members issue? Enter ‘Project Ocean’. , J. & HENLE, F. HENLE, & J. , include; ZSL, Greenpeace UK, Marine Conservation Society, Pew Charitable Project Ocean is a rather unusual Trusts and Blue Marine Foundation. For more information visit www. MÜLLE R collaboration, between the world’s marinereservescoalition.org 21 22 Zoo management Green shoots How AZA in America is helping zoos and aquariums Implement sustainable practices to meet their conservation missions

Shelly Grow, Association of Zoos and Aquariums; Debborah Luke, PhD, Association of Zoos and Aquariums; Jennifer Hale, AZA Green Scientific Advisory Group Chair, Denver Zoo; Doug Piekarz, AZA Green Scientific Advisory Group Vice-chair, Akron Zoo

Zoos and aquariums accredited by the To help AZA-accredited facilities when making operational decisions and Association of Zoos and Aquariums develop and implement sustainable defining operational costs. (AZA) serve as conservation centres practices that support the missions of Volume 2 of the AZA Green Guide, that are concerned about ecosystem their facilities, save money, and respond entitled ‘Building and Measuring Your health, take responsibility for species to stakeholder demand AZA published Zoo or Aquarium Sustainability Plan’, survival, contribute to research, ‘The Zoo & Aquarium Green Guide: is designed to help zoos and aquariums conservation, and education, and Suggestions for Beginning or Expanding implement specific sustainable practice provide society the opportunity to a Sustainability Program’ in 2011. strategies, identify AZA Smart Source develop personal connections with This popular resource was expanded Cooperative Purchasing Programs the animals in their care. These into a two-volume set in the fall of to provide discounts on sustainable esteemed institutions play a vital role in 2013 (it can be seen at www.aza.org/ products, and document their progress maintaining our planet’s diverse wildlife sustainable-practices). Together, these on categorical metrics through and natural habitats while engaging the AZA Green Guides will help zoos and scorecards. These scorecards, provided public to appreciate and participate in aquariums publicly demonstrate their for each sustainability topic area, conservation. Accreditation standards commitment to wildlife conservation by are modeled after the ICLEI-Local and board-approved policies ensure ‘walking the talk’ and revealing model Governments for Sustainability USA’s that all AZA-accredited facilities ways in which guests can learn how to successful Green Business Challenge have substantial, positive impacts on be part of the solution for habitat and Program but modified to fit the needs conservation. resource conservation. Each is organised of zoos and aquariums. The metrics Habitat loss and degradation by sustainability topic areas that mirror and scorecards are designed to help an (resulting from pollution, over- those used in AZA’s annual Green organisation document its sustainable exploitation, invasive species, and Award and include: practices internally via a point system climate change) are some of the most • Awareness/Planning and track progress against its own significant threats facing wildlife • Chemical Management operation over time. worldwide. Conserving resources can • Construction During September 2013, AZA is lessen these threats and therefore • Energy Management distributing a membership survey that AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums • Fuel Management gathers data from these scorecards to strive to conserve the natural resources • Innovation assess and promote the membership’s within their own business operations. • Purchasing individual and collective sustainable Sustainable practices are implemented • Waste Management practice efforts. This information will to reduce water and energy usage, • Water Management then be gathered via a Sustainable decrease waste generation, and Volume 1 of the AZA Green Guide, Practices survey on an annual basis encourage the generation and purchase entitled ‘Introduction to Building Zoo and included in the AZA Annual of green products and renewable & Aquarium Sustainability Plans’ is Report on Conservation and Science energy. From developing water-saving designed to help zoos and aquariums (ARCS) which will also summarise field filtration systems in aquatic exhibits; gain a basic understanding of sustainable conservation, mission-focused research, installing both small and extensive solar practices, become fluent in a consistent and educational programming efforts. panel arrays; designing and building sustainability language, and think The newly refined ARCS will allow innovative waste-to-energy systems; about ways to develop a Sustainability AZA to be better able to share the story receiving ISO 14001 certification for Plan. All AZA-accredited zoos and of how accredited zoos and aquariums designing and implementing effective aquariums are encouraged to develop a are leaders in wildlife conservation. environmental management systems Sustainability Plan, which will provide a Whether saving species on the brink and the US Green Building Council’s critical starting point for staff to support of extinction or ensuring species never LEED certifications for buildings and the organisation’s sustainable practice reach such a precarious state by reducing construction; and working with visitors, strategies and contribute to the plan’s threats, AZA-accredited zoos and restaurants, and vendors to offer success. To be a model of sustainable aquariums are working hard to protect sustainable food options, accredited zoos development, it is recommended that wildlife and wild habitat for future and aquariums are inspirational public the Sustainability Plan consider and generations to enjoy. examples of putting conservation talk balance the organisation’s economic, To find out more simply visit into daily operations. environmental, and social outcomes www.aza.org/sustainable-practices. 23 conservation Reasons to feel blue A tiny gecko now has a tiny population, due to the pet trade. Zoos can help to save this charismatic creature

Heike Maisch, Curator, Zoopark Erfurt

This turquoise dwarf gecko in Europe. They’re mostly in private (Lygodactylus williamsi), or Williams’ Fifty years of peace hands, but they are here: we do not dwarf gecko as it is also called, is The turquoise dwarf gecko was need to start a breeding programme highly prized within the pet market. first described by Loveridge 61 from scratch with only 10 individuals. This is hardly surprising. The males years ago. It went reasonably The geckos do not need huge space, are as blue as the sky, and out and unnoticed until 2002, when first and they’re easy to breed if the normal about during the day, while the picture was published in a field standards for temperature, humidity females are bronze-green and look guide. That’s when demand went and so on are taken into account. good against foliage. They’re tiny, into overdrive. Their popularity in the pet trade too, which means they don’t need to means they are also an attractive occupy much space in a collector’s and they have not been found on species for our visitors. The message living room. any other type of plant. To collect about what happens because of our Once word got around about these them people simply cut down the unsustainable use of our natures´ geckos ten years ago, demand rapidly tree. Apart from Kimboza and Kuvu resources can clearly be passed on grew, and tens of thousands have Forest (4 km² and 30 km² in area to our visitors, informing them that been harvested from the Kimboza and respectively) there are only two tiny buying wild-caught animals that have Kuvu forest of Tanzania since then. fragments near those forests where been unsustainably harvested, using Even today wild caught animals are the geckos have also been seen. the gecko as an example, will only much cheaper than captive bred ones One fragment consists of only 14 drive them more quickly to extinction. that have been carefully nurtured and Pandanus trees: the rest have been In addition, by breeding them in our reared. cleared for banana plantations. The zoos we can ensure that this tiny blue The gecko hasn’t fared well as a second fragment is similarly close to wonder of nature could have a future. result. Just a decade after its sudden its final destruction. Less than 18 % The gecko is perfect for appearance on the pet market it has of the Kimboza Forest is covered with conservation and education lessons. If appeared on the IUCN Red List for Pandanus trees, so even in the forest you join our Reptile TAG meeting at the first time: it is now Critically area the habitat is much fragmented. the EAZA conference in Edinburgh, Endangered. When the trees have gone, the geckos you can take part in a discussion about In the wild one male and several will be gone forever. a potential studbook and joint efforts females share one screw pine tree But there is hope. Thousands of for the survival of the species. Pandanus rabaiensis. The gecko seems potential founders of a conservation For further information, please to be dependent upon those trees breeding programme are right here contact me at [email protected]. nnschen Mä

24 Gecko info Males are bright blue with black throat parts and black eye stripes. Amelanistic animals exist. Females are bronze to greenish, sometimes with a turquoise stripe at the sides. Hatchlings are more brownish the first days.T hen they change to female colouring until males reach sexual maturity. Both sexes show varying black spots and lines on the head. Bellies are yellow to orange. Depending on the mood they both change to duller coloration. Pupils are round.

Size: Total length up to 8,5 cm. Hatchlings start at 15 -20mm. Food: They eat all kinds of insects such as flies, crickets and so on. They also consume fruit juice which is licked from ripe fruits Habitat: Territorial. One group consists of one male, several females and juveniles. In the wild they only live on screw pine trees Pandanus rabaiensis in the forest. Endemic to Tanzania. Reproduction: In captivity every 3-4 weeks two eggs are laid. Incubation time depends on temperature – 60-90 days at 26-27°C (result: males), up to 120 days at 23-24°C (mostly females). Status: Critically Endangered due to pet trade and habitat destruction.

25 Academy Ten out of ten! Over the last two years 666 people have attended EAZA Academy courses. From feedback and statistics, it’s clear that the benefits have been great

Myfanwy Griffith, EAZA Academy Training Officer

Back in January 2011, with the help of a generous donation from Fondation Segré, EAZA recruited a Training Officer to support an expansion of the range of available courses, and the EAZA Academy was born. Two years on, its aims of delivering high quality, practical training applicable to the full range of staff working in zoos and aquariums are clearly being achieved, as these examples of participant feedback show: • ‘I felt a little bit lost before this course about how to proceed, who could help etc. All seems much clearer now.’ Basic Breeding Programme Management course participant, 2012. • ‘The examples from other zoos helped to inspire and made us think we can do it too!’ Visitor Studies: Survey Design course participant, 2012. • ‘This course was extremely useful and exceeded my expectations. The organisation as well as the tutors was outstanding; I enjoyed every talk and learned only useful things.’ Introduction to Zoo and Aquarium Management course participant, 2012. These are great endorsements, but what are the statistics to back them up? Let’s look at the background to Encouragingly these courses were also development via the Academy. In fact, the Academy. seen to be of value to people outside in 2012 the number of participants In addition to developing the the EAZA membership: Figure 1 shows per institution attending courses primary courses, the EAZA Academy that 25% of people on courses are increased. This is likely to be a was able to broaden its offer by from non-member institutions. This reflection of positive internal feedback working with the EAZA Technical includes zoos and aquariums as well after a course and institutions’ seeing Assistance Committee to deliver as Universities and private individuals. the follow-on benefits of sending subsidised courses for Candidate for Over this period 57% of EAZA someone on a course. Member institutions, as well as other member institutions have sent at Given that the main remit of the training organisations to approve least one staff member on a course. EAZA Academy is to provide training collaborative courses. This meant that This shows a strong belief in the opportunities for all EAZA members in a two-year period the Academy value of the courses offered and a it is also encouraging to see that was able to deliver 33 courses. commitment to professional personal participants from 48 different countries attended courses. Further investigation Figure 1: Numbers of EAZA members and non members on courses into which countries and institutions sent people on courses shows that Number of percentage of people from the UK, Netherlands and people total people Germany had the highest attendance From EAZA members 498 75% on courses (Figure 2). This is perhaps From non members 168 25% 26 to be expected as these countries Figure 2: Number of people attending courses per country (* High values because of Technical Assistance Committee subsidised enrichment courses. If exclude these countries then the next 4 countries are Italy, Sweden, Belgium, and Poland).

clockwise from above: Basic breeding programme management, December 2012; Enrichment and Animal Husbandry workshop, Georgia; Forage Production and Management; Facilitation Training for TAG Chairs; Introduction to Zoo and Aquarium Management

was fantastic.’ Educational Concepts and Techniques scholarship course participant, 2011. • ‘Getting this scholarship was not only my personal success; I felt my zoo was supported by others. This is very motivating, to believe that we are not alone and we can develop and transform to the modern zoo.’ Animal Behaviour and Applications to Husbandry scholarship course participant, 2011. None of the successes of the EAZA Academy would be possible without commitment from our membership and the outstanding experience and generosity of our tutors. As the also have high numbers of EAZA countries in which the courses are expanded Academy moves into its members. Nevertheless, it still shows held. However, this alone does not third year many of the ‘new’ courses the high value many institutions in explain differences between countries are being repeated and becoming these countries place on applied in course participation. For example, established as key knowledge and training and development. Institutions only one course was held in the UK skills development opportunities. in Bulgaria, Romania, Georgia and and one in Germany during 2012, Without the willingness of tutors Hungary have also sent high numbers yet participants from these countries to give up their time and share of people on courses. This is largely attended 13 and 10 different courses their experiences this would not be due to very successful enrichment respectively. possible, and for this we thank them and husbandry workshops carried out Segré scholarships enabled greatly. in those countries with the support participants from many EAZA From successes and range of of the EAZA Technical Assistance Candidate for Member and less positive feedback over the past two Committee and in collaboration with affluent institutions to attend courses. years it is clear that the EAZA Academy The Shape of Enrichment Inc. However, Again their feedback was excellent will continue to offer high quality institutions in these countries have demonstrating the inclusive nature applied courses well into the future. If also sent staff on additional courses and value of EAZA Academy courses. you would like to know more please showing that they are committed to Some of their comments follow: visit at the EAZA Academy pages wider training as well. • ‘I feel the lecturing was of a very of the website or contact Myfanwy. There is a trend for high high standard and the opportunity [email protected] e look forward to participation from people in the to link with other zoo educators meeting you on a course soon! 27 breeding programmes

Pure pride eaza has had an eep for asian lions for many years, but sub-specific Hybridisation has long been the problem in creating a studbook for the African lion. now an interest group is picking its way through the problem, and steady progress towards a solution is being made

Frank Oberwemmer and Ruben Holland (Zoo Leipzig), Alex Sliwa (Zoo Cologne) and Jesper Stagegaard (Ree Park Ebeltoft)

The lion is one of the most attractive strategies for Central/West Africa of lions kept in zoos are sub-specific and charismatic animals for zoo visitors and East/South Africa as a result of hybrids of individuals that were and the most frequently kept large cat corresponding workshops. These imported in the early days of zoos from in zoos. Many zoos have a long history documents describe in detail the factors different geographical African regions in breeding this species and ISIS counts that threaten lions in different regions and then interbred. Of the 820 lions about 150 holders of African lions in and suggest possible responses to them. registered in ISIS only 105 individuals Europe with 820 living individuals Following these strategies, evaluations are assigned to one of the seven (www.ISIS.org, data valid as of early of lion status were conducted in subspecies (www.ISIS.org, data valid as 2012). Mozambique, Central African Republic, of early 2012). It seems very doubtful It has, however, been little noticed by Tanzania, Malawi and Benin, while that these individuals are still purebred the public that lion numbers in Africa National Action Plans were set up in as no management through studbooks have dropped within the last decades Mozambique, Kenya, Southern Sudan, was applied and secondly their small to just 23,000 – 39,000 individuals Zimbabwe and Ethiopia. numbers suggest that inbreeding may (although there are many uncertainties It is currently too early to judge the have become a problem. in this estimate). A significant decline, effects and successes of these actions, In 2008 Zoo Leipzig conducted a especially outside of protected areas, is which aim to stop the decline of lion survey of all European lion-holders to suspected and the Red List has therefore numbers in the wild. However, being find out more about any willingness been classifying the African lion as aware of these facts a group of zoos to work with a pure bred African Vulnerable since 1996. In fact, more started in 2007 to investigate the subpopulation of known origin. recent numbers published by the NGO role that zoos can play for ex situ lion The long-term goal was to define LionAid in January 2013 suggest that conservation. They have adopted the a population of pure bred lions for only 15,250 individuals remain on the name African Lion Interest Group a new EAZA studbook. There was entire continent. (ALIG) for easier communication about considerable support for this idea and The IUCN/SSC Cat Specialist the project. a project was initiated to analyse the 28 Group has published two conservation It is well known that the majority genetic status of zoo lions in contrast to left: Kalahari lion group © F. Oberwemmer; above: After the discussion with Botswana officials © D. Moss; below: Susan Miller darting lions during the sampling © S. Miller

Frank Oberwemmer and Ruben Holland (Zoo Leipzig), Alex Sliwa (Zoo Cologne) and Jesper Stagegaard (Ree Park Ebeltoft) wild lions. Since 2009 ALIG has been and to analyse their genetic status to genetic analysis of MPI and IZW during presenting the results of this research see if subpopulations can be detected the Felid TAG meetings at the EAZA during the Felid TAG meetings at and how related the individuals are. Annual Conferences from 2009 to the EAZA Annual Conferences and Ree Park Ebeltoft and Borås Zoo are 2011 there is no final interpretation of separate ALIG meetings. kindly funding this study which also these findings so far. In order to gain The Max Planck Institute for uses microsatellite markers as analysis more reference samples from wild lions Evolutionary Anthropology (MPI-EVA) method. museum collections will be the next, in Leipzig was the scientific partner In March 2011 lion reference and rather urgent, source. Another initially chosen to analyse blood samples samples were sent from the National approach by IZW is to establish a of zoo lions and compare them to those Cancer Institute in Maryland (USA) second method for cat genome analysis of lions from the wild. In 2010 the to the IZW in Berlin. NCI Maryland using the so called Single Nucleotid Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife is the institute where the genetic Polymorphism (SNP). This method Research (IZW) in Berlin took over method using microsatellite markers to is said to be more powerful and more and expanded the method which uses differentiate cat species and subspecies precise in its results. microsatellite markers (MS). The main was established (Menotti-Raymond During the ALIG meetings it was problem is getting enough samples of at al. 1999). These imported blood discussed which African subpopulations wild lions which can be confidently samples are from the same source of of lions would benefit most from a new traced to pure-bred populations. reliable pure-bred lion populations of studbook. It is obvious that the West One aspect of ALIG’s work therefore different regions that were used for this African lion population is the smallest deals with a small genetic study project. Unfortunately the quantities and most severely threatened. But the conducted by the Department of Nature of the samples were small, and some region is, at least partly, politically Conservation of Tshwane University of insufficient to analyse all of the 30 unstable and difficult to access and no Technology (Pretoria, SA). This study microsatellite loci that IZW uses today. contact with local organisations has aims to sample lions in South African Although ALIG managed to present been established so far. National Parks and private reserves and discuss different results of this Recently, ALIG members contacted 29 above: Kalahari from above © J. Stagegaard; left: Susan Miller working in the lab in Pretoria © S. Miller; right: Kalahari lion , © J. Stagegaard

the Department of National Parks and Another field of discussion prior to the task. Givskud Zoo in Denmark has Wildlife in Botswana. Botswana has establishing a studbook for pure-bred indicated an interest in doing so. long kept its wildlife resources isolated African lions is the question of how best The ALIG members are aware that from imports and exports, so the to deal with the large number of sub- the project seems to be progressing country’s Kalahari lions are more likely specific hybrid zoo lions which are not slowly but since the organisation to remain pure-bred. ALIG has applied managed through a studbook. Although of samples, the application of for a research permit in Botswana in ALIG does not believe that there are the microsatellite analysis, the order to prove this theory through any problems in finding enough zoos establishment of contacts with different genetic testing. that are happy to switch from keeping institutions and experts, as well as the A second condition for import of lions sub-specific hybrid lions to keeping discussions are time-consuming, there to Europe would be that these animals individuals of a pure-bred population is no other way to proceed. Only if all are free from feline immunodeficiency we took a look at the ISIS dataset preconditions can be met can a new virus (FIV) which is said to be the case using SPARKS. This is possible thanks studbook for African lions generate for some populations in Botswana. If to Laurie Bingaman who provided a future conservation benefit. genetic and disease status turn out to be studbook dataset in September 2012 The ALIG participants are happy suitable then Kalahari lions (eg surplus – the fourth largest of all studbooks to receive comments and suggestions individuals in reserves or game farms) and includes data about nearly 8,200 to push the project forward and will could become a possible source to set individuals with over 800 living present an update during the EAZA up a new EAZA studbook for pure-bred individuals listed. The full pedigree is Annual Conference. If you would like African lions of known origin. Sampling only available for 15% of the animals, to contribute to the project by providing of 250-300 lions across different reserves but this first rough analysis could finally lion blood samples for further analysis is now under way in cooperation with lead to a permanent monitoring of zoo please contact Frank Oberwemmer 30 field researchers in Botswana. lions if a zoo can be found to take on ([email protected]). 31