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Feline Conservation Federation July/August 2011 • Volume 55, Issue 4 T A B L E O contentsF Features JULY/AUGUST 2011 | VOLUME 55, ISSUE 4

Convention Speakers: Informative, 7 Enlightening, & Fun! Dr. Kristie Karima Burns fills us in.

Grab Some Popcorn for “Poppers Pen- 9 guins!” Patty Perry says this is positive on pri- vates!

For the Very First Time... 10 Fernando Vidal shares his breeding suc- cess!

Carson Springs: To Protect, Educate & 17 Conserve Christine Janks says it began with a trip to De Wildt.

2011 Convention Fieldtrips were Wild! 20 Nicole Ammon had a great time at con- vention.

A “Tim’s Eye View” of Convention 2011 26 Tim Stoffel declares it, “the most important convention ever!”

USDA Cat Census -Hair-Raising Statistics 29 Lynn Culver finds our feline population in danger.

Blast from the Past: Letter to the Queen 42 of Sheba Household requests to the family . 26 Cover Photo: Guiña kitten. Photo by Fernando Vidal. Read the full story starting on page 10. 7 36 40 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE FCF JOURNAL AND JOINTHE FCF IN ITS CONSERVATION EFFORTS A membership to the FCF entitles you to six issues of the Journal, the back-issue DVD, an invitation to FCF hus- bandry and wildlife education courses and annual convention, and participation in our online discussion group. The FCF works to improve captive feline husbandry and ensure that habitat is available. The FCF supports the conserva- tion of exotic felines through captive and wild habitat protection, and it provides support for captive husbandry, breeding programs, and public education.

42 Notes on the 2011 AZA Felid Contact Us T.A.G. FCF Conservation Director Pat Callahan reports. FOUNDER: Treasurer: DEPARTMENTS: Catherine Cisin Marilin Antle Accreditation Chairman: P.O. Box 31210 Doc Antle Conservation Myrtle Beach, SC 29588 P.O. Box 31210 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: 843-283-2826 Myrtle Beach, SC 29588 Lynn Culver treasurer@ 843-271-2299 24 Rare Fund Global Pro- 141 Polk 664 felineconservation.org [email protected] grams Mena, AR 71953 Supporting conservation 479-394-5235 Conservation Advisor: around the world. executivedirector@ DIRECTORS: Jim Sanderson, Ph.D. felineconservation.org Conservation: 356 Freeman Street 43 New Center for Cat Conserva- Pat Callahan Hartford, CT 06106 tion in Arizona OFFICERS: 3400 Vine Street 505-720-1204 Photographer Fred Hood President: Cincinnati, OH 45220 [email protected] attends new center’s fundraiser. Kevin Chambers 513-304-7155 7816 N CR 75 W conservation@ Membership Services: Shelburn, IN 47879 felineconservation.org Caroline Alexander Species 812-397-2302 10825 New Avenue president@ Legislation: Gilroy, CA 95020 Everybody out of the Gene Pool felineconservation.org Robert Johnson 510-304-0031 23 PO Box 31210 [email protected] Poet David Madison on Vice President: Myrtle Beach, SC 29588 . Patty Perry 786-390-8553 32 A Fishing Cat Family Diary P.O. Box 2359 legislation@ JOURNAL STAFF: Yvonne Rijsdijk reports on fish- Moorpark, CA 93020 felineconservation.org Managing Editor: ing cat family values at a Dutch 805-517-1005 Lynn Culver . vicepresident@ Teresa Shaffer felineconservation.org 12811 Outerbelt Road Layout/Copy Editor: Lone Jack, MO 64070 Eden Tran Pictorials Secretary: 816-739-3999 sonandedentran@ George DeLong [email protected] yahoo.com 40 Your Best Shots 197 East View Road Nancy Barter, Lea Juanakais, Highlands, NC 28741 Associate Editors: Karen Bunnel, Gretchen 828-526-4553 Judith Hoffman secretary@ Deeanna Croasmun Mogensen, Kathleen Lamke, Tim felineconservation.org Yvonne Veety Stoffel, Alexis Brielmayer, Wayne Huckabee, Teresa Shaffer Advertising: Husbandry Kurt Beckelman Organization The Feline Conservation Federation publishes the Journal bimonth- 13 The Importance of Socialization ly. The FCF is non-profit, (Federal ID#59-2048618) non-commercial, Carol Cochran offers advice to 4 Letter from the President and international in membership, devoted to the welfare and conserva- keep our felines friendly. Kevin Chambers tion of exotic felines. The Journal publishes articles on exotic feline conservation and 13 Orlando Husbandry Course husbandry, management, and regulatory and legislative issues affecting Review From the Executive ownership for our members. The author’s point of view does not neces- Lenard M Hughes, M.D., found 6 Director the FCF course worthwhile. sarily represent the point of view of the organization. Reproduction of Lynn Culver any material in the Journal may not be made without the written per- 36 Diagnosis and Treatment of an mission of the original copyright owners and/or copyright owner FCF. Outbreak 35 Minutes from FCF’s Sec- Letters to the editor and guest editorials are also published. Lea Jaunakais and Dr. Juston ond Quarter Meeting 2011 Display advertisement space is available at the following prices: Schmidtke, DMV team up on $10 business card, $25.00 quarter page, $50.00 half page, and $100 part three of this series. 38 Donations full-page ad. Submission deadline for articles and Education 2011 FCF Convention advertisements is the 10th of even num- 43 Board Meeting Minutes bered months. Please submit all photos 22 Wildlife Educators Course in and articles to the Journal Managing Orlando Editor. High Resolution photos and Deb Kaprive made it a priority to 45 Registered Handlers articles may be emailed to attend. [email protected], or send by postal service to 141 Polk 664, Mena, AR 71953.

Copyright © 2011 Feline Conservation Federation. All rights reserved. Some material is reprinted with permission of other copyright holders.

3 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 Letter from the President By Kevin Chambers member Cathryn Hilker. The FCF continues to grow and become The 40th Annual FCF Convention was stronger each day. As of mid-July, 560 an overwhelming success! 163 people memberships constitute 841 members. At from 25 states, plus France, Morocco, this time last year, we had 534 member- Canada, China, and Costa Rica, all con- ships with 771 members. Please encour- verged on Orlando, to make this the sec- age others to join the FCF, because the ond largest convention ever. larger it is, the more influence we will A huge thanks is in order to the conven- have on feline matters. tion chair, Erin Patters. Until you’ve been It is time for renewals to be sent out. there, you can’t imagine how much work Everyone with email has already received goes on behind the scenes to plan and a 90-day notice, and on August 1st we arrange for everything to go smoothly. send out the 60-day notice. You will find Erin did a fantastic job, and it is such a a renewal form enclosed in this issue. shame that she had to miss the actual con- Please help us out by sending in your vention because of having to move to Ger- “ Madonna,” a mixed media renewal information and check. The earli- many to be with her husband, Cody, who portrait donated by Malaysian er you get these in, the easier it is for our is in the armed forces. It takes real dedi- artist Hoeyyn Ngu, showcases volunteers to get everything processed. cation to put that much effort into plan- Save China’s ’ matriarch Esther Stockwell, CPA, from Maryland, ning, knowing that you are not going to be and was a highlight at the live counted the constitutional amendment bal- able to join in on the fun. Others who auction this year. Our editor was lots. There were 121 votes cast, requiring were indispensable in putting on such a the winner. Proceeds benefit both 81 “yes” votes to pass. The voting results good convention were Michelle McKay, the FCF and Save China’s Tigers. were 109 “yes” votes and 12 “no” votes. Lauren Bean, Kurt Beckelman, April Next year, convention will be in Cincin- The board will be working over the next White, Jean Slosberg, Teresa Shaffer, and nati, Ohio. Plans have already started, few months to formulate definitions and Debi Willoughby. I’m sure I’ve left out with a visit to the Cincinnati Zoo to see corresponding bylaws. We hope to have others, but be assured that even if I left off the recently renovated cat house and these done and ready for implementation your name, your help was greatly appreci- greatly expanded cheetah run, and, of by January 1st. ated. course, meet with the cheetah lady, FCF

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4 5 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 From the Executive Director

By Lynn Culver contributed images and accounts of our speakers and events. Each The FCF must represent all feline year, Lotty recipients award this stakeholders. The renewal form in this organization’s highest honor at Journal is also a new membership applica- the Saturday night banquet. This tion. If you have already renewed, share it year, Dr. Bhagavan “Doc” Antle with someone who cares about cats. If joins the exclusive group for his you received this Journal as a complimen- outstanding commitment to the tary sample, please fill out the application FCF, his mentoring of the next and join today! generation, his education of the Members approved a constitutional media and the legislators, and amendment that creates a professional valuable conservation contribu- membership category. In the next few tions of the Rare Species Fund. months, this board will develop the stan- I gave a talk at the Convention dards and procedures, set dues, and devel- on the FCF project to identify all op programs to benefit professional mem- cat stakeholders and census the bers. captive population. In this Journal, I have cle. This Blast from the Past is a reminder The Journal contains a full Convention updated the census numbers. that, in the early 1960s, the common cat report. Photographers and writers have Every Journal contains a historical arti- was the ocelot. In a time before the Endangered Species Act and CITES, mother were trapped for the fur industry and their kittens were captured for export. The Long Island Ocelot Club was founded to help new owners properly care for their ocelots. After only a few short years, the focus switched. LIOC members pioneered captive breeding of ocelots, margay, oncilla, and jaguarundi. Half a century later, however, the private sector population of these South American cats is nearing extinction. A strong FCF is needed to reverse this trend. Extinction is forever! In this Journal we celebrate incredible captive breeding success with Fernando Vidal, who writes of his historic first-ever captive-born guiña. This Journal also publishes Yvonne Rijsdijk’s article on the captive breeding and behavior of fishing cats. Pat Callahan’s report on this year’s AZA Felid TAG shares good news about our private sector tiger genetics. Photog- rapher Fred Hood reports on the new Wild Cat Research and Conservation Center at the University of Arizona. The FCF shines the spotlight on another FCF mem- ber facility; this time, Christine Janks tells the story behind Carson Springs Wildlife Sanctuary. David Madison has graciously offered the FCF the right to publish poems from his soon-to-be-released book, and in this issue we open with a delightfully fun one on the jaguarundi. Finally, Lea Jau- nakais teams up with her veterinarian, Dr. Juston Schmidtke, to conclude her infor- mative three-part medical series on out- breaks.

6 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 Convention Speakers: Informative, Enlightening, & Fun!

By Dr. Kristie Karima Burns, MH, ND Positive Image: Wildlife & Wildlife Behavior Anthropologist and Wild Media. Are You Thriv- Staff at Red Rock Wildlife Education ing or Barely Surviving?" If Center of www.PellaWildlifeCompany.org you were not fortunate enough to attend this year's confer- The diversity of speakers at the FCF ence, I highly recommend pur- conference this year provided beginners chasing a set of DVDs of the with a comprehensive education on man- event. The speakers were not aging their own felines and provided simply entertaining and enjoy- inspiration and lively discussion among able to listen to; what added experienced handlers and facility owners. extra value to all the sessions Doc Antle started off the sessions with an was that diverse topics were essential discussion of how to deal with covered in depth and offered the press. Following Doc, Jim Sanderson many specific action plans “Doc” Bhagavan Antle used the story of Feli- shared “Don't Eat the Shrimp,” a story of members can use immediately cia Frisco and her tiger, Will, as an example of three small cat species around the world and in the long-term to when it’s necessary to reign in the wild mus- and what people can do to help in the con- improve their feline experi- ings of the media and put a positive spin on servation efforts of these cats. Jean Slos- ence, relationships with their the situation. berg then shared a small cat success story cats, or their facilities. Doc Antle's presentation on play in creating more awareness of con- how to deal with the press was servation issues concerning felines. His an essential lecture that all own- introductory remarks set the tone for his ers of wild felids should hear. presentation when he stated, “As a scien- He shared his insights into how tist, I present people with the facts and I the press works, his past experi- hope they do the right thing, and as our ence with the press, and how to political elections show that doesn't create an action plan for dealing work… I've changed my message here with journalists. The most and I am going to tell you what to do... I'd important tips he highlighted like to say if you do these few simple were that owners need to have things you will be involved in the conser- their own agenda when speak- vation effort, but actually you won't. The ing with journalists, they should truth of the matter is you will be back to be aware that the press is neutral.” His presentation delivered as always seeking negative news, promised; everyone in attendance went and that journalists will always home with an encouraging list of things bring in an opposing viewpoint. they could do to easily help in the conser- He provided many suggestions vation of wild cats around the world. and examples of how to deal Jean Slosberg's complementary video Fellow speaker Dr. Jim Sanderson introduces with the press, suggesting that presentation on a margay she “rewilded” Ms. Jean Slosberg, who traveled all the way everyone “write down a conser- provided rare insight into the world of a from Central America to share her unique vation, private owner- experience and video with convention atten- ship message of love dees. Photo by Tim Stoffel. and trust and under- standing, and say it 5 with everyone in her presentation, “My different ways every time they Life with an Amazing Wild Margay.” Li talk to you.” Quan, the keynote speaker, shared stories, Jim Sanderson talked about pictures, and videos of her brave and his travels and conservation unique efforts to rewild the South China efforts with wild felids around tiger. Lynn Culver spoke on “The Future the world and shared with us the of FCF and Cats in Captivity.” “Tale of Three Cats,” their spe- Michelle Skurski then visited members cific challenges, and what mem- from Disney's Kingdom to talk bers could do to help in the con- about "To Catch a Tiger by the Tail: Hus- servation efforts. His presenta- bandry & Medical Training of the Felids tion brought to light the plights at Disney's Animal Kingdom." Dan of some of the lesser-studied Audience members were captivated by Tika, Stockdale closed the sessions by inspiring cats and highlighted the impor- the mother margay starring in Jean Slos- everyone with his lecture on “Presenting a tant role wild feline owners can berg’s wonderful home video.

7 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 Finally, Li Quan, tiger.” During her lecture, she talked the keynote speaker, about the process of rewilding the South shared pictures, China tiger, which was the first step in her videos, and excerpts efforts to save the tiger. Her unique and from her book, innovative approach to rewilding the Rewilded, which tigers provided all cat owners with new provided “a summa- information and insights into possibilities ry of a long journey with their own cats’ behaviors, breeding, that has lasted the and conservation efforts. Quan spoke

Keynote speaker Li Quan, founder of Save China’s Tigers, spoke passionately about her efforts in South Africa to breed previously-captive South China tigers in a safe, open environment, where she hopes they will learn the skills necessary to return to the wilds of their homeland sometime in the future. Photo by Eden Tran. wild margay through the eyes of Slosberg, past eight years, (a) who witnessed the reintegration of a cat battle to save the Chinese tiger brothers X and Y enjoy a relaxing snooze into the wild, its hunting and climbing most endangered together, an opportunity given to them through the skills, and success in raising two kittens - tiger in the world – unusual approach which Li Quan has employed in all in her backyard and surrounding wild the South China “rewilding” her tigers. Photo courtesy of Save China’s habitat. Tigers.

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8 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 and teaching tigers who had lived their sions by motivating everyone with his entire lives on concrete slabs in to speech on the importance of a positive and hunt in the wild. Despite the lack of ini- professional public reflection. The main tial support she found for her pioneering point he made was how critical a polished efforts, she persevered because, as she put image is to a facility and even to a private it, “During the course of investigation on owner. Stockdale gave numerous exam- the project, I discovered ples of how to create this professional that... despite the hundreds of millions of image, as well as anecdotes of unprofes- dollars going to India and Russia, the tiger sional staff and facilities he had worked numbers have continued to decline, and with in the past. His presentation was therefore there was a need to do some- enhanced by everyone's memories of vis- thing different. And that was what we iting two professional facilities the day decided to do.” before, Dade City's “Wild Things” and Michelle Skurski visited from nearby Joel Slaven's “Professional .” Animal Kingdom to talk about how her staff integrates health- care concepts into the training of their animals to help mini- mize their exposure to invasive, traumatic experiences in health- care and first aid. Her talk focused on the importance of planning ahead with a feline Michelle Skurski of Disney’s Ani- and how this planning can help mal Kingdom, not far from the prevent future trauma to the cat. hotel, gave a riveting lesson about She shared a myriad of slides the techniques her staff employs showing postures taught to the when training and conditioning cats at Animal Kingdom and their big cats to cooperate for med- described how the staff went ical check-ups and procedures. about teaching the cats each of Photo by Tim Stoffel. the postures. Skurski also noted the importance of emer- about a number of controversial tech- gency training and how her niques she used with her tigers, such as staff accomplished that with a “Wildman” Dan Stockdale of News’s bringing the cubs back to stay with the large number of big cats. Her “Wild America” showed us exactly how to be mother after being separated, putting two examples were both fascinating professional with his outstanding public per- brothers together, using a previous “pet and thought-provoking. sona as a motivational role model during his tiger” with one testicle as a breeding stud, Dan Stockdale closed the ses- enlightening talk. Photo by Tim Stoffel. Grab some Popcorn for “Popper’s Penguins!”

By Patty Perry two beautiful children who would rather the penguins. The ultimate villain turns die than only see him every other week- out to be the director of the New York This movie just might have a favorable end. Zoo. And the battle begins!! message for us struggling private owners Popper takes delivery of a package dis- The zoo is portrayed as an establish- of captive wildlife... If you haven't yet patched from Antarctica by his always ment with a less than honorable agenda seen “Mr. Popper’s Penguins,” I recom- absent explorer father, who is now regarding the animals. Through an action mend spending the ten bucks. deceased. The contents of this frozen packed and hysterical mission to rescue Jim Carrey stars in this perfectly pre- package turn his life into a frenzy. Six the seized penguins, Popper wins back his dictable, but feel good family film that rambunctious, engaging penguins waddle family, the animals, and the heart of leads itself to a delightful message about their way into the hearts of his children Angela Lansbury’s character. The under- how a relationship with six flightless hel- and estranged wife (Carla Gugino), as lying message to all this chaos is that ani- in tuxedo suits can change one's they become the center of Popper’s world. mals are better off in a loving, nurturing world. His twenty million dollar Manhattan environment, rather than a detached situa- Carey plays Tom Popper, a powerful penthouse becomes a perfect and playful tion with ulterior motives. New York City real estate magnate, who is habitat for these spirited creatures that I don't know about the average movie- challenged to seal the deal of a lifetime transform Popper, as he reunites the fami- goer, however, to anyone who might be with Manhattan landowner, Angela Lans- ly and changes his priorities. All the conservation-minded, this movie delivers bury. His family life has been fractured as while, he must battle the various animal a positive message for private owner inter- a result of his career. He is a divorcé with control and wildlife agencies over owning ests.

9 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 FCF members should remember Fernando Vidal, one of two international guests who spoke at the 2007 convention in Dallas. Fernando’s work was so important to FCF members that they donated the funds to fly Fernando to the 2008 convention in Myrtle Beach. At that convention, the FCF board awarded a $2,000 grant to Fauna-Andina to build and improve caging for the captive breeding of guiñas, under the guidance of Fernando Vidal. Four years later, we are pub- lishing the Fernando family’s report on the world’s first captive guiña birth. Fauna-Andina can be proud that they have provided all the necessary environmental qualities that are conducive to reproduction. The FCF commitment to conser- vation of endangered felines and support of managed breeding programs in some small way helped this process along. For the Very First Time...

By Fernando Vidal In addition to working with the huemul, we also had the chance to It was in 2000, when, as a family start a research and protection project group, we started working on the with pumas in the region. We named conservation of several species native the project “ Araucano,” on to our country () and this region. behalf of the old (Puma It was hard starting out, since we had concolor araucana). The project nothing done in terms of a facility started with the first pumas to ever be and the place was a little bit small, put under telemetry surveillance in only one and a half hectares. the region, providing us with impor- Most of the work was focused on tant knowledge about the threats native deer and felines: pudú (Pudu puma face and the ecology of this puda), Patagonian huemul (Hip- majestic feline in the region. The pocamelus bisulcus), puma (Puma information gathered represents an concolor puma), and guiña (Leopar- important advance in research and dus guigna), wrongly named kodkod. has helped to change the perception We soon discovered the reality in of wildlife officers and common peo- terms of the situation that many of ple about the negative impact of the above-named species were going puma on livestock and the real effect through. Illegal hunting and trade of translocations practiced in the was negatively affecting these species country. and very little research was being We also included camera traps to conducted to learn about and under- May 5, 2011, Fernando Vidal holds Kalki’s kit- gather more data for our research. stand basic aspects of many Chilean ten, the culmination of six years and five This allowed us to put all the species native species. months of captive husbandry dedication. and their interactions together in the When we start browsing the infor- same scenario. In the mean time, we mation available on some species, we individuals survive in both Chile and convinced the government to let us discovered that there were no guiñas or . rescue every guiña that was in any kind of Patagonian huemul under captive pro- We started working to convince the trouble. grams for conservation and research, even government to give us the chance to work As it dealt with an endangered species, though both species are at risk of extinc- mainly on huemul, pumas, Darwin’s fox, it was not easy to gain government per- tion. Puma ecology information was pudú, and guiñas, among other species. mission for this work. Many of the almost unknown, except for that coming To obtain the permit for working with researchers and scientists involved with out of North America or as far south as huemul took more than two years of meet- this species are absolutely against putting Patagonia. ings and talks about the project. But guiñas in captivity, even when they are It was shocking for me to realize how eventually permits were granted. Actual- individuals in need of help, such as limited the knowledge and conservation ly, the project now has nine animals, hav- orphans or trap victims. To be honest, I efforts were for Chilean wildlife. We ing started with just two, and this includes never expected that working with guiñas were not even able to answer the basic the loss of one female shot by poachers. I would be such a challenge to undertake in questions asked by small children regard- personally believe in God and “He” had a captivity. ing guiña biology. So how could we teach present for me in the spring of 2005. I It was funny how some professionals them to care about an unknown species?! found the first fawn of a Patagonian reacted. As soon they knew there were Also, we discovered that it was hard to huemul born in captivity! Describing the animals under the control of the govern- obtain permits for working with huemul. emotion of finding something that no one ment, they started working hard to have All captive husbandry attempts in the past had ever seen before, it was much more them released before we could gain access had failed, resulting in deaths of all the powerful that I thought. I was absolutely to them. Some animals were released in animals involved in those programs. This alone when the event happened. There are places that they did not belong, with no is the animal found on the coat of arms of no words to explain my feelings; it is for plan for monitoring, while some others my country, the main conservation symbol sure a moment that will remain in my were released as juveniles, not yet old for the whole country. Only about 1,500 mind forever. enough to have a good chance of survival. 10 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 wire walls about eight feet tall. At the top of the wall is a horizontal metal roof about three feet wide. This metal guard has proven to be effective at preventing climb-outs. Inside the habitats are trees that let the guiñas climb up and stay up. There is a hollow log on the ground and plastic containers filled with wood shav- ings. Each habitat has a shelter six feet off the ground, with an enclosed room that blocks the wind and prevents eye contact with the cats. One breeding season passed without any results. Honestly, I was concerned, wondering what we were doing wrong. I always thought back to the pessimistic One of the debilitated wild guiñas words of the Iberian expert. that came to Fauna-Andia for reha- We learned that the orphan guiñas we bilitation. were rearing would swim, so they need- Inside each guiñas habitat is an ed big water pools. Each of the enclo- assortment of hiding places, including Fighting against the united group of sures had a large pool of water during these elevated wooden shelters that specialists, we managed to rescue six ani- the breeding season of 2010. Also, we provide privacy and protection from mals from the south to central zone, a included shelters on the ground, as well rain and wind. total distance of 1,500 kilometers over the as high shelters close to the trees, since zoos had not succeeded in their past whole area. the books and literature mentioned a pos- From the beginning, we were in over attempts to breed guiñas. It was not easy. sibility of them making arboreal “nests.” On the older property, we always had our heads. All of the animals were handi- We did not know what else to do, so we capped either physically or mentally. barking and neighbors making all had to wait for whatever God had in store sorts of noise. After talking with people doing the same for us. type of work with the highly endangered This mating season, I started seeing that Thinking back on my youth, I have to the animals were more active, that they Iberian lynx, we knew that it would not be mention that, as a kid, I had wanted to a good idea to work with these compro- were reacting positively to the stress-free raise guiñas and pumas. My mother environment. I smelled something differ- mised individuals, since breeding them almost went crazy hearing about my would be even more difficult than if we ent in the air, and one of the orphans dreams every day. I always laugh when I (actually an adult female) that had been were using healthy individuals. wonder what she would say if she could Without even realizing how much time very friendly to me, started avoiding me see me now. and being more aggressive and active. I had passed, we had been working with I started to realize why the Chilean guiñas for almost six and a half years. We did not want to even think or mention that had left behind the small, inadequate cen- I expected something to happen. But it ter where our work had begun and moved was different this time. on to one covering 150 hectares (about For all the cat breeders, I must mention 370 acres). Camera traps did their job, that our felines, both male and female, letting us know that the new property was stay together year round. This pretty habitat for at least four free-roaming young female was sharing an enclosure guiñas! For sure, our “jewels,” both with a very old male of unknown age and melanistic and spotted felines, were in our no teeth at all. So what could we expect? own backyard! Maybe the best thing was Time was running out and I became the knowledge that the survival of those sad. I was thinking about changing the tiny, wild felines depended mainly on our cats’ diet for the next year. These guiñas decisions and, as a family group, we are had been fed five days a week, defending them to the best of our abilities. plus red meat the other two days. From Everything was going fine, except... we time to time, I gave them rabbits or were having no kittens, no reproduction. that were hunted especially for them. The new enclosures that we built at the Also, the enclosures are open at the top, bigger facility were in the middle of so birds would enter from time to time, peaceful country; the animals had come Fernando provides large, open areas plus some passed through the here from the older center two years ago for the guiñas, and keeps them con- fence. I provided vitamins for the small in 2009. fined with an ingenious use of hori- cats as well... What more could they Our enclosure design is a habitat zontal, metal roofing that attaches to need? approximately 36 feet by 36 feet, with the top of the welded wire mesh To add to my pressures, specialists walls. were complaining because we had had no

11 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 reproductive success with the cats in six and a half years of work. and a half years. They said the project Honestly, I was shaking and had no meaningful activity and, therefore, could not believe my eyes. I no reason to exist! held the creature and we One day when I entered the enclosure looked into each other eyes. to check on the guiñas, I saw something The mother did not complain. that might have been an illusion -- motion After some time, I could on the female’s abdomen. She did not let touch her like the old days. It me touch her; she was not my cat any- was a sunny day, unusual for more. Some days later, her teats started the season. Later, my wife growing. I could not get near her any- came to see the miracle and more. I was excited, but still did not want get the kitten’s weight. We to hope too much. also we took a picture of my Three more days and the lady came for daughter with the small cat. food, but disappeared by one of the logs. Maybe one day she will take The next day, I made her climb the fence over the center and keep our to have a better look at her teats and, to projects running. my surprise, I could tell that some living We know that the guiña creature had been suckling! She went mom, Kalki, chose to deliver back to the log, not letting the male on the ground in a log. Her approach her. kitten was first seen in trees I was so happy, but as yet had no evi- and high places at about 70 dence to mention the event to the world. I days old. In the beginning, was witnessing the reproduction of one of Kalki did not let the male the most cryptic and unknown cats in the enter the nesting area. How- world. The information coming out of ever, what is happening now this event could answer most of the sim- is really funny. The father ple questions regarding the biology of the plays with the kitten and he Florencia Vidal, the next great conservationist, species. We continued feeding the guiñas never attempts to take his holds the guiña kitten. as usual, but the female was different. I food. It is incredible to could briefly touch her when she came for watch. The father and mother will fight live in guiña territory, so this process will food. over food, but neither bother the kitten help raise awareness of the need for con- March 17, 2011, was an unforgettable when it is eating. In fact, I have found the servation of the species. The winners will date. God gave me one more present. A three of them sleeping together in the get to come here and experience the new conservation tool was born, plus new shelters during storms or heavy wind. guiñas up-close, especially some ambas- information about a mystery.... the guiña! Father and son play peacefully, and we sadors of the species. During their visit, Personally, I was once again facing some- have seen the father on his back with the they will learn about the basic biology of thing never seen. kitten jumping on his belly, biting and the species, plus some ecological aspects, On April 8, the moment finally came; it scratching him! all information generated from the project. was pretty early in the morning when I The reintroduction process of the guiña Additionally, they will have the opportu- saw the first guiña kitten born after six is one day closer. This cat does not nity to observe the many other endangered behave like the other ani- species present at the center. They will mals. He does not come also be invited to lunch by the youngest close to me or rely on me. worker on the project, our daughter. When we approach him, From this experience, we can state a he climbs the trees as an few preliminary results. The guiña gesta- escape route. He is a wild tion lasts about 78 to 85 days, they seem cat, not a pet. He is per- to have a mating season in the spring, and fect for being part of the litters may not be as many as five individ- next generation of breed- uals, as mentioned in the books. ers. I would like to especially thank all the Today, as part of the members of the FCF that support our educational component of work. Jim Sanderson, actually a personal the project, we are work- friend and colleague, is always helping ing together with the gov- our projects; Gregory Breton of “le parc ernment on a contest to des felines;” Patrick Callahan; SAG mem- name our newborn guiña, bers of the Chilean government who with small children from believed in our work; and Bruno Behn rural schools competing and Camila Bentjerodt of Fauna Andina. Kalki, the mother of the guiña kitten. for the honor. All the kids

12 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 Orlando Husbandry Course Review

By Lenard M. Hughes, MD what behind schedule in the class because of audience interaction, which at times got I have had a deep appreciation for a bit off the beaten path. I still have some wildlife since I was less than one year old. confusion about regulatory agencies. I My father used to bring me everything could use more personalized advice about from baby caimans, to many varieties of owning these animals in the state of Flori- snakes, , and other animals. I have da at the county level, which I know we owned various reptiles, including most could not cover in a one-day course. recently a rather large black throat moni- Housing was adequately covered, as was tor , several ball pythons, some corn nutrition. Being a medical doctor, I would snakes, and a few others. like to have covered more about feline Since I was very young, I have really physiology and disease states encoun- wanted a black panther because of their tered. It would be great to have had a vet- beauty and sleekness. I have not yet erinarian with exotic feline experience accomplished this goal, but I did manage present. I would like to have covered to obtain a young female at nine behavior and taming these animals in weeks of age. She is now going on ten more depth, especially from those more Mindy Stinner takes a break from months and turning into a beautiful animal experienced than myself. teaching husbandry to practice her with a very nice personality. I recently I am a pediatric surgeon by profession, own skills on Lynn’s bobcat kitten. joined the Feline Conservation Federation near the end of my career, and I would Photo by Kim Pyne. to meet other people with small and large like to move on to a life more focused on cat experience to expand my knowledge wildlife, especially cats and reptiles. Ani- ilar interests who could share their experi- and provide my serval with all her needs mals are so much more loyal, caring, and ences with exotic felines. and keep her healthy. forgiving, and return their love more I thought the feline husbandry course I recently took an exam on exotic unselfishly than most humans, except for was well organized and that the presenting felines with the Florida Wildlife Depart- very young humans. speaker was knowledgeable about the top- ment and realized that I needed to do more Overall, the course enriched my knowl- ics. I was especially thrilled about getting than just read textbooks about these cats. edge, but the best part was interacting to hold and interact with some of the kit- I had been looking for a feline husbandry with other exotic cat owners and the kit- tens present for the FCF convention. I course and I finally found one close to my tens. I would like to take a more was slightly disappointed that there were home. I was excited about taking the advanced course at a later time to further no tiger, , or cheetah cubs brought to course and meeting other people with sim- advance my knowledge and skills. the conference or course. We got some- The Importance of Socialization

By Carol Cochran article that are brand new at being owners tomed to being held and gets used to your (parents) of new kittens, puppies, or any odor. That is how baby animals identify In the Encarta ® World English Dictio- other type of young animal. This nary ©, the word "socialize" is defined as: article is written to help those 1. To take part in social activities, or people raise their new babies into behave in a friendly way to others, or 2. adulthood to be sociable. To train somebody to be social: to give When you first get a kitten, somebody the skills required for function- puppy, or other baby animal, you ing successfully in society or in a particu- must start to socialize it immedi- lar society, such as, socialize a child. No, ately. To do that, you have to I am not an English teacher, but I am an make the baby aware of your animal owner and socialization is just as voice, your touch, and your smell, important for our animals as it is for our by handling it and talking to it. children. Be gentle, pet the baby lightly, When an animal is born, whether the and let him hear your voice. parents are domestic or exotic, wild or Most of us give our pets names, tame, it learns from its mother, sometimes so start by using the name you the father, and from anyone else that has a choose every time you talk to part in their growing up. Now, most him. Making a new kitten comfortable with everyone reading this knows all about the You can pick the baby up, cud- human touch and caressing is part of the necessity of socializing, but there are dle him, and hold him close to socialization process. Here at the FCF con- always a few people who may read this you, so that he becomes accus- vention, a baby Canada lynx gets cuddled.

13 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 stopped to think al weeks, then thrust into the world of that not every- humans, noises, new smells, and a differ- one handles and ent way of life. The experience can be teaches young even more dramatic with an exotic feline, animals from which is a naturally wild animal. birth, so we When you start socializing your new were in for a exotic feline, start slowly, be gentle, and rude awakening. do not talk loudly or yell. With each step She had slept you advance in teaching and socializing, if most of the way you make a mistake, you fall back three home, and when steps, so go easy, but be consistent. As we carried her mentioned before, stroking and gentle pet- into the house ting, talking, and holding him close to you and set her is just the beginning. As the feline grows down on the and learns, it will need to learn to be calm floor, all hell in many, many different situations. Take broke loose! the feline to a pet store, friend’s house, the The pup sat veterinarian, and any other place you can An admiring group of convention attendees take turns pet- there for a go with an exotic feline, so that he can ting the tiger cub. Events like convention expose young minute, looked become accustomed to other people, ani- animals to a variety of sights, sounds, smells and can help around, jumped mals, sights, and sounds. condition the feline to its future life co-existing with peo- up, and actually If you have a litter of kittens, the best ple. climbed the way to alleviate any fears before they start walls! She had and begin proper socialization is to handle their mother and siblings, by their smell. never seen the inside of a building before, each one a couple of times a day from In the past, when Indians had to depend had never seen children before, and was birth, as I mentioned before. Then, from on horses so much in their daily existence, completely freaked out! We worked and the time their eyes open and they turn they would get the newborn foal or wild worked with her and were finally able to about three or four weeks old, have a few horse they caught used to their odor by bring her around to be a fairly decent pet people come over, including children old gently blowing their breath into the with fewer fears than when we got her, enough to take directions and be gentle horse’s nostrils. That imprinted the but she was never totally calm with with animals. Put newspaper on the floor human smell into the horse's memory and strangers or noises. That is an example of and, after everyone has removed their made it easier to work with and train the what happens when a domesticated animal shoes and washed their hands, have them animal, as it associated that odor with the is left to be reared by its mother for sever- sit in a fairly tight circle, so that they form one person who was teach- an enclosed ring for the ing and handling it. babies to be in. Have a few Many times, people will toys compatible to the type be unfortunate enough to Books - Feeding Supplies - Gifts and age of the animal in the obtain an animal that has ring, then, one by one, put not had much, if any, han- the litter of kittens into the dling by a human. That is center of the ring. They will sad, because, without early www.wxicof.com sit there, bewildered, and handling and socialization look around for a minute or from birth, the animal will two, then start exploring. not be accustomed to human Let the kittens wander contact and voice, but will around sniffing each person, instead have a fear of We Carry New In-Print & Hard-to-Find Out-Of-Print Books toy, and area. When the humans. babies have investigated Let me relate a personal √ Raising In Captivity √ In The Wild their surroundings for a cou- experience to illustrate what ple of minutes, have each I am writing about. Back in √ Husbandry √ Management person pick one up and hold the early '70s, we purchased √ Identification Guides √ Reference Books him, while talking to and a Siberian husky pup, about petting him. If the baby five or six months old, from √ Encyclopedias √ Veterinary Manuals struggles, stay calm and do a large kennel. We got her not put him down, since that home without much inci- will only teach the baby that dent and took her into the 914 Riske Lane Coreen Eaton struggling and crying will house. The pup had not Wentzville, MO 63385 636-828-5100 make the human leave him been handled much, we alone, and that is not what could tell, but we never you want. After each person

14 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 has held their first little one for five to ten feline, you minutes, pass the babies to the right, or can start out left, just as long as a new person gets a by having new baby after each pass and that every one person person has handled every baby before the visit with, sit session has ended. One thing that is very by, talk to, important is to not let the puppy or kitten and feed the hide. What I mean is, some babies in a lit- fearful cat. ter will be shy and afraid. Those are the When it ones that need this teaching the most. becomes When you are holding the baby and he used to the hides his face in your arm, clothing, under attention, your leg, or anywhere that seems secure to have a sec- him, stop him by turning him to face the ond, third, center of the circle. There he will see and fourth other people and his brothers and sisters. person do the This is extremely necessary in the social- same thing. ization of the little ones to keep them from Over a period being afraid. Always face them forward of time, the into the circle and make them aware of the cat will Oni, a five-month-old Geoffroy’s kitten, is harnessed up to activities going on. They can be passed accept the walk among convention goers. Oni is a goodwill ambas- around to each person and, when put back presence and sador for the species and enjoys human company. into the circle, enticed to play with the interaction of toys. different people and most will learn to can win. In dealing with older animals, they may enjoy it. Now there are some animals that The different things I have described have weeks, months, or sometimes years will not accept all humans. It sounds silly, for socializing animals work with the of fear instilled in them, but they can also but it is true. We have an F3 Bengal exotic felines, and results can be seen as be brought out. With adult cats, it is a lit- queen that does not like to be held and early as the second or third session. Do tle harder, as they use claws, teeth, and does not want my husband, Pat, near her not be disappointed if you do not see flight to avoid human contact, so the circle at all. She stays as far away from him as improvement in the first five minutes or trick with people is not going to work. If she can, but cuddles up to me and hugs even the first day. It does not work that you or your facility obtains a non-social- me continuously. She is constantly way. You have to build confidence and ized, or under-socialized, adult exotic cussing him if he gets near her. I do not trust with the animals, both young and speak Felinish, but I am old. They have to learn that you are there sure that is what she is to protect them, not harm them, love doing! My two-year-old them, not destroy them. You need to work serval does not like men with them and show them you are their at all, including Pat. friend. Unless she is in heat! If you follow these rules, you will have Then it is a different developed a beautiful, trusting, loving story! So, working with feline that will be your friend for life. It cats is a one-on-one pro- just takes patience, time, work, under- ject and, with patience standing, and most of all LOVE! and determination, you

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By Christine Janks already off and running, but they gra- ciously got us with the group and we saw In the summer of 2001, I decided not to cheetah, lots and lots of cheetah. After wait another year to follow one of my the tour, as we were deposited at the gift dreams. I am a Thoroughbred racehorse shop, I looked around for anything I could trainer and breeder by profession, and my do to get close to a cheetah. husband Barry was a jockey agent and I saw that we could “adopt” a cheetah, farm manager. My whole life, whenever so I asked Barry to give them money for anyone asked me what my favorite animal the exclusive adoption. Then I asked to was, I would answer cheetah. That usual- see my adoptee and was told it does not ly evoked a shocked question as to why it work that way. It was then that I looked was not horses. Cats have always been up the hill in the restricted area and saw my thing. I love dogs and horses, but in Ann van Dyk. Over the low fence and up my mind as well as Barry’s, nothing is a the hill I went at a rapid jog, with the special as a cat, any cat. guide, Marilyn, hot on my heels. I ran up My dream was to go to Africa and pet a to Ann and, as quickly as I could, told her cheetah. Sounds very simple and very I had come all the way from , Illi- complicated all at the same time, but look- nois, and my dream was to pet a cheetah ing back, that was the only detail in my and I would do whatever it took, and by plan. I did a lot of research that summer then I was in tears, and I am not a crier. of 2001, and decided the place I needed to She took my arm and, along with Barry, go was The De Wildt Cheetah Center near led us into a king cheetah enclosure and Christine Janks poses with her Pretoria, South Africa, and, as a backup, a sat us down with Nkosi, and I got to pet mentor and good friend, Ann van secondary cheetah location in Hoedspriut, my first cheetah. We spent several more Dyk, founder of the De Wildt chee- South Africa. hours with her and the staff and were tah breeding program. We paid for the tickets the day before invited back the next day when the public 9/11. Of course, our immediate reaction facility was closed to observe medical with Vanessa DuPlessis, who now works was to cancel and try to get our money procedures. I had brought along a book in for The Endangered Wildlife Trust. Over back, but with a day of reflection, we which I was featured as one of the top the years, we have sponsored many chee- decided that no terrorist event was going women in racing, so I could show that, tah conservation efforts, held fundraisers, to deny me my dream. So mid-October, despite my unbridled enthusiasm and and hosted Vanessa every year when she off we went to Johannesburg. fence-jumping bravado, I was not some gives her special presentation. There are Our driver could not find DeWildt, and nut, just a little nutty. usually very few dry eyes in the group we arrived on Sunday to find the tour The survival of cheetah as a species is when she tells her stories of successful dependent on sufficient rescues and conservation efforts. land and protection for Ann and Barry and I were partners in a them in various African farm near The Waterberg, where we gave counties. The ability to educational tours, housed rescued cheetah, breed them in captivity has , and African wild dogs, and raised been largely solved, with the young cheetah born at DeWildt, which much of the credit going to was a smaller facility and close to town. I Ann van Dyk. In my opin- became a trustee of the De Wildt Cheetah ion, the largest obstacles Trust, a position I still hold. Ann was able exist in the African coun- to breed cheetah so well that the Trust was tries. Laurie Marker's work not able to place all that were born, and so in Namibia is legendary, they languished in cages. Friends and for- but cheetahs may not be mer colleagues, Deon Cilliers and Kelly bred in captivity there. Marnewick, are cheetah heroes in South Ann and I kept in touch Africa. Again, in my opinion, cheetah and, the following summer, adapt very well to a captive environment, when her assistant came to as they have for centuries, and the more America to raise money, people can see them and interact with Ann asked us to help. them, the greater chance they have for the Despite never having done future. Quoting Baba Dioum, “In the end, any fundraising, we hosted we will conserve only what we love. We a successful event and so will love only what we understand. We Christine interacts with cheetahs from De Wilt in began a close friendship will understand only what we are taught.” South Africa. A few years ago, Ann decided to leave

17 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 round out the ticularly the plight of cheetah. group, we have The goal of Carson Springs Wildlife Grace, the giraffe, Foundation is to provide as much educa- an African antelope, tion as possible for every visitor. We are and seven wonder- working with local schools and closely ful lemurs. with the University of Florida vet school. Carson Springs We get excellent volunteers. We plan to Wildlife Sanctuary develop educational tools similar to those is especially fortu- we have used in South Africa, so that stu- nate to have Matt, a dents can learn different lessons with con- cheetah originally servation and animals as examples. imported by Pan- We currently have two tigers, a cheetah, ther Ridge Conser- two , a bobcat, two caracals, three vation Center , seven lemurs, a giraffe, 2 beisa founder Judy oryx, 3 sitatunga, 2 gray , 2 barred Berens. Matt is an owls, and 3 sulcata tortoises. We would Matt hardly looks like the fastest on earth as important educa- like to expand to have other cat species. he lounges around during a summer afternoon at Car- tional ambassador at We believe in responsible private own- son Springs Wildlife Sanctuary. Carson Springs, ership, even though several of our cats raising awareness of were Fish and Wildlife confiscations from the Trust and go into commercial breed- the threats facing a inadequate homes. Some of the others at ing, and we sold our half of the farm and wild cheetah’s survival. He has a one-acre our facility came from people who decided to build our own facility here in enclosure and is given lures to chase and thought they should have an exotic cat for Florida on our 275-acre horse farm. That whole prey. The resident peacocks jump a pet and later realized that they could not was the beginning of Carson Springs into his cage, though he is mostly afraid of handle them. Wildlife Foundation and Sanctuary. them. He was born in captivity to captive- My feelings about breeding exotic cats We have scaled back our day-to-day born parents, and Matt does not think food and private ownership have evolved over racing involvement and now live full-time should come with fur or feathers. He the years. Joining the Feline Conservation at the farm. We got our first “rescue,” a loves to be hand-fed. Federation has been educational, enlight- serval in need of a proper home, in 2007, Barry and I have spent the past ten ening, and rewarding in meeting so many and we have been slowly building ever years raising and donating several hun- wonderful people. since. Carson Springs Wildlife Founda- dred thousand dollars to cheetah conserva- We give private tours by appointment tion and Sanctuary is a sanctuary, educa- tion in South Africa. We literally carried and tours to school and camp groups. tional facility, animal park, and a rehabili- ourselves and two lure machines, which Carson Springs Wildlife Foundation and tation facility, along with the Thorough- were the first to be used in South Africa Sanctuary can be found on www.face- bred racehorse breeding business housed and at De Wildt, to do "cheetah runs," book.com. on our property. Carson Springs Wildlife which were and still are used to raise Sanctuary is providing lifetime homes for money for cheetah conserva- exotic cats in need. I also hold a rehabili- tion. Our farm in South tator license, so we have in residence non- Africa was used to rescue releasable native animals as well. Also, to and rehabilitate injured chee- tah to be released later in safer places. We do at least one annual fundraiser with Vanessa DuPlessis (formerly Bezuidenhout) of The Endangered Wildlife Trust (formerly of De Wildt). Vanessa gives an educational conservation presentation that literally moves people to tears. Most of the people see a live cheetah for the first time and, from then on, are moved to support cheetah conservation. We give free school group tours and have Sheena, a lucky rescued bobcat, group volunteers who are perches high above her home at given educational materials Christine gets Sunflower the tiger to show us Carson Springs. about all predators, but par- that she stands more than seven feet tall.

18 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011

19 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 2011 Convention Field Trips Were Wild!

By Nicole Ammon full advantage of the steep incline with ledges for The Friday of the FCF Convention, in them to climb and jump Orlando, was filled with animal fieldtrips, on. The black one scheduled at Joel Slaven’s facility and enjoyed their hilltop view a surprise additional trip to Wild Things in and pool, and various Dade City. Two full buses began the one- small lined the hour drive to Dade City, to visit Kathy and path back to the picnic Kenny Stearns’ 22-acre botanical and area. The park was filled wildlife park. They turned an historic with birds chirping and sink hole into a winding path of animal lush vegetation nestled enclosures, including curious snow, rhe- under tons of shade trees, sus, and bonnet macaques, brown lemurs, which all of us enjoyed and even very large baboons! The tours on such a hot Florida day! are guided, because you get very up-close The facility provided a and personal with the animals, being only delicious, vegetarian-

Kathy Stearns brought a little bit of Dade City’s Wild Things to convention with her, a juvenile Japanese macaque named JaJay. He thought Lena Tran looked like a good perch. Photo by Eden Tran. the scenes” info, but just a suggestion! friendly lunch of After lunch, we loaded up for the long pasta, veggies, drive to Joel Slaven’s facility. Videos of and salad (plus Lynn Culver’s cougars played on the bus meat for the car- and we enjoyed a DVD about nivores). Han- T.I.G.E.R.S., Doc Antle’s preserve, to dlers shared make to ride seem quicker, but most peo- some of the ple were fast asleep after all the excite- babies from the ment. No thanks to GPS, we did eventu- nursery as they ally get there! Passing horses grazing in After the long bus ride, everyone was relieved and walked around the field, a golf cart met us and we parked refreshed by getting to mingle and have a cool drink in the with a fallow near a large barn full of dogs and parrots! jungle-like atmosphere of Joel’s gigantic screened room deer fawn and The house was beautiful, to say the least, complete with manmade waterfalls and koi ponds amid two beautiful with high ceilings, large windows, and a colorful and exotic landscaping. Photo by Tim Stoffel. a couple feet away. The animals were foxes for photo opportu- very interactive and curious about the nities. It was a great way three large groups of animal lovers wind- to start the day! The only ing up and down their sink hole home. suggestion I had was Cat lovers watched as the male and female instead of us getting a African lions enjoyed the enrichment toy “typical tour” that the made by FCF members the night before. general public hears, it Politely, ladies first, as the female checked could have been more it out, but the male quickly stepped in and focused toward hus- took the toy to the top of his den box to bandry or training or enjoy and show off. The jaguar pair also what works or doesn’t enjoyed their new enrichment toy, but work with their exhibits, with a lot more hesitation! Florida pan- since most of us are well thers basked in the sun as the western educated on the animal cougars hid in their two-story den box. facts, since we all sing the Joel Slaven’s Professional Animals facility had Along the trail, we met a very playful same praises. It would just about everyone in awe of the sheer size of his river that gnawed on chicken just have been interesting to enclosures, such as this aviary containing a large like a ! The deer’s enclosure took get a little more “behind collection of macaws. Photo by Eden Tran.

20 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 lot of natural rocks and We made our way back vegetation. The landscape onto the patio as the pro- was full of colorful flowers fessional handlers were and lush plants. We were introducing some of their led to the open patio and animal ambassadors. A huge, screened-in, nature- young red kangaroo inspired pool with water- hopped along and posed falls between two koi for pictures, a gorgeous ponds. My son asked me if red ruffed lemur greeted “this is where the Bache- fans,and my favorite, the lorette was filmed?” which tamandua, made his I thought was funny, but appearance, along with very comparable! Drinks various parrots and were offered and everyone macaws, plus the curious caught up with old and new cotton top tamarin sur- friends and enjoyed the prised guests as it jumped scenery. Our group was from shoulder to shoulder divided into airboat riders for a welcomed ride! and private tours, so every- Unknowingly, photos were one got a chance to explore. John Finlay, , and Paul Rowe get ready for a ride on being taken and graciously The airboats sounded like one of the airboats at Joel Slaven’s house. It turned out to be a given out at the end of the jet engines as they glided pretty popular activity during the afternoon. Photo by Tim Stof- event for precious keep- out on the large lake in fel. sakes! Joel and his staff search of alligators. I anx- were very welcoming and iously awaited the tour! their new haven in another very large, professional in allowing us The enclosures were all huge and obvious- almost 20 foot tall enclosure lush with into their piece of paradise. For the lucky ly had the animals’ well being in mind. Florida vegetation. The ambassador ani- registered handlers, we got to listen to and The first habitat was beautifully mals were housed in adorable tiki style learn from Joel’s 40 years of expertise designed, with an almost four-story huts, including tiny common marmosets working with various species in the pri- rock/wood cabin and its own stream and and cotton top tamarins. The area had its vate training session. Joel exhibited click- pool with a jungle gym array of ropes and own kitchen to prepare food, and every- er training with his yellow lab, as it wood for the lemurs to climb and explore. thing was immaculate! Foxes, showed off some of the many commands. The enclosure had held many different , and Geoffroy’s cats! The last Joel explained how to start training an ani- species, but the black and white ruffed critters were the active bin- lemurs found their paradise! Many of us turongs that started to make would have moved in, too! I did not know everyone hungry for pop- Joel rescued so many parrots. I think corn! Not dinner time yet, there were over 50 large parrots housed in we had to visit the cats! We pairs, trios, and a whole flock in one of the walked toward the barn largest enclosures for parrots I have seen! while the emus curiously Small bush baby pairs enjoyed their slum- followed our every move. ber as rare rescued owl monkeys enjoyed The large adult red kanga- roo slept as the little walla- by groomed itself in the shade. Joel’s shows include domestic animals as well as exotics, so there were also many dog and cat stars onsite. Joel’s done an amazing job of rescuing homeless dogs and cats. The exotic felines included servals, a Siberian lynx, and a young , all living it up in Could , like this one we large tiger size enclosures saw at the Slaven facility, be the true with personal tiki huts on Patty Perry, Robert Johnson, and Jarod Miller key to Orville Redenbacher’s world- stilts! The lynx was ham- had time for a siesta in Joel Slaven’s hammock wide success? Photo by Sandra ming it up for photos as the after a long day of animal tours and good food! Stickler. crowd gathered. Photo by Teresa Shaffer.

21 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 mal for a routine or series of commands. with a BBQ dinner served alongside the The Q&A involved participants in discus- lake, where people and animals social- sions of movie work and shows, but also ized with each other. These trips made included the importance of training for me miss my animals, but the ideas and daily husbandry duties and physical tips we learned will benefit our captive exams. It was such a pleasure and gra- “pets” and ultimately help to save their cious opportunity to be part of their world, wild counterparts! even just for the afternoon. Simple tips can be applied to any animal we are work- Fred Boyajian was pained to say ing with, but you have to get registered to farewell to a new friend when it was participate, so that next time you will not time to depart the Slaven home. miss anything! The evening wrapped up Photo by Robert Johnson. Wildlife Educators course in Orlando By Deb Kaprive and reconstruction of our facility and an included 57 pages of info on wildlife other New Wildcat Conservation Educator extensive rescue of 13 animals from a than the 47 residents in our care, which and Registered Certified Handler sanctuary shut down by state authority. are mostly felines. It would have been [email protected] Now that the dust has settled and great to come away with some endorsed USDA has given their stamp of approval, resource material, i.e. reference books, My name is Deb Kaprive and I am, first it is time to get serious about our responsi- even if only available at the vendor tables and foremost, a volunteer at Elmira’s bility as FCF members. The time and for purchase. I would appreciate any Wildlife Sanctuary, a 501(c)3 non-profit. place of this year’s convention was writ- referrals here. In addition to two work days “in the ten in our stars and perfectly in sync with I came away from this convention field,” I serve as volunteer coordinator the second part of our mission and the prouder of our affiliation with FCF, and am on the board of directors. Our next phase of our development. We are empowered to move forward, and willing mission is twofold; to provide continuing implementing a tour program now that we to follow up on Mr. DeArmond’s advice care, life management, and enrichment to are open to the public, and we’ll be active- to join the Association of Professional wild and exotic animals in need of a ly pursuing community outreach within Wildlife Educators. After all… “Wildlife home, and to provide educational opportu- the coming months. education connects us all.” nities to increase community awareness of Although it created a hardship to have the needs of these animals. Until now, our contingency of three (Darlene The beautiful artwork used to illus- and coinciding with the FCF convention, Williamson, Sally Haase, and myself) to trate David Madison’s poetry on the our existence has been extremely insular be absent from field duties for four days, facing page was created by Mr. in that we were involved with a relocation the overall investment was well worth the Robert Dallet (1923-2006), a prolific return in priceless resources that we wildlife artist born in the Normandy acquired during classes and presentations. region of France. He began drawing Our main objective had been to suc- and painting at an early age with no cessfully complete the Wildlife Educators formal training, and his works can Course. Mission accomplished! Ron be found in countless publications, DeArmond is an engaging instructor and galleries, and natural history muse- what I would consider an excellent role ums worldwide. He even collaborat- model. His presentation of course materi- ed with fashion industry giant Her- als is concise and his passion for his work mès on multiple collections, ranging is apparent. His professional and common from scarves to fine china. Many of sense approach is universal and he set us his illustrations depict felines from all up to succeed. What impressed me around the globe, a special interest most was that this educator from Iowa had arranged for this rural Florida resident of of his. Later in life, he spent much 12 years to see an endangered Florida time in Africa to get a more personal panther for the first time. A point so well view of his models. His immense taken that took me out of our modest collection of works and legacy has “backyard” facility to the bigger backyard been handed down to his son, Fred- of our state, connecting to the Andean cat eric, who resides in Paris. All rights After the educator’s course, Ron DeAr- in Chile, the South China tiger transported to the works of Robert Dallet are mond gives an exotic felid talk at the to Africa, and so on... And my epiphany reserved, and partial or total repro- Orange County Public Library, mainly was that we are global through association duction is strictly prohibited. The on the Florida panther, but also intro- with the FCF! FCF thanks Frederic Dallet for gra- ducing several ambassador cats to the My only aside comment would be ciously allowing us to include this crowd, including this yound serval. regarding the course workbook which Journal Photo by Eden Tran. work in the .

22 Canadian-born David Madison lives in Belize, Central America, where he is currently writing Cat o’ Thirty-Nine Tales: The Wild and Not-So-Whiled Cats of the World. Believing that “Music Hath Charm to Save the Salvage Beast,” and consequently writing in verse, he is out to save the world’s wild- cats (many of which are all but whipped) singlehandedly, one tale at a rhyme. Even if he is perceived to be lilting at windmills. A lifelong cat lover, Mr. Madison has set aside his well-along “jungle book,” Isn’t That a Howler? The Animals of Belize in Verse Proportion to Their Sighs, in order to focus his unique poetic voice on the plight of the world’s wildcats. When asked, “Is it difficult to write upon the tragedy of extinction in verse?” he replies, “Not nearly as difficult as it is to reverse it.” Everybody out of the Gene Pool By David Madison

Look here! I’m not a jaguar; I’ve got sundry No, that’s because they call me leoncillo, Features that make me—coatimundi? “Little lion,” one big ticked-off leo Don’t insult me, please—a jaguarundi: Known to roar with lusty, big-cat brio.

Short of leg—look, pal, don’t get me wrong; Big head? Small, triangular, and flat; I’ve four; my body and my tail are long, My brown eyes small, set close together. Pat As you to hear my jaguarundi song. Me; you’ll see I’m a special big-nosed cat:

Hear! [purr, chirp, wah-wah, whistle, scream] my call. I’m Puma yagouaroundi, and, as such, Why [chatter, yap, hiss, gurgle] I’ve more gall Related closely to the . Touch Than —thirteen sounds in all. Me, and I’ll give your hand a goodbye clutch.

Look, I’m a great deal bigger than a house cat; I live in lowland brush near running water; Stronger, more ferocious than a mouse cat Birds are my prey largely (quite the plotter, [Splash] I swim. What Tigger’s such a douse cat? I’m notorious for poultry slaughter).

Fish? Well, you should see the ones I’ve caught, How you jest! Me make myself a home? Not even in my favorite fishing spot. I take them as I find them: grass or loam; What, one upon my body? Hmmph! I’ve not. Beneath leaf canopy or cavern dome.

My coat’s one color: blackish/brownish gray, The truth is I will live most anywhere Unless it’s somewhat red; and let me say There’s water, food, a little warmth, and air. The base and tip of every hair is way Why, just say “jaguarundi” —I’ll be there.

Way lighter, so I’m really “ticked,” a beauty; I hunt by day, yes, mostly on the ground, But if you dare say my coat’s “agouti” But I will go against type with a bound (Big rat!) I’ll be really ticked, and snooty. Up-tree—and oh! don’t I then monkey round;

I’ve no contrast color on the back But not so much I don’t look out to see Of either ear (short, rounded)—total lack. If larger feline’s up the food-chain tree, Who wouldn’t be an egomaniac? And looking to make one such out of me.

So, no, I’m not the least bit spot/stripe jealous; But there’s no looking out for evolution Hunters, for my lacking them, aren’t zealous That, by way of my gene diminution, To be hunting our ticked lot to sell us. Looks to do that by its stock solution:

Sexy chromosomes? I’ve thirty-eight, Gene pool. Far below the brim in it, Two more than smaller cats than me. (Some fate!) The genes so low I’ll soon not swim in it I shouldn’t wonder they don’t get a date. —Oh dear! and soon not her-and-him in it,

I’ve strong scent glands between my hinder toes. What good will my sex chromosomes then be I do a sort of moonwalk—down scent goes, When there’s no jaguarundi he and she And each knows I have been this way, each nose. To put them in, no jaguarundiry?

Yet some toplofties say (I’m most unfat) Fast off the line, I surely would have run I look more like a than a cat; So slowly I might never have been done, An “otter cat” of all things. I like that! Had I known it was the ancestral one.

Still others say I look like, by God’s grace, Man! if I’m doomed with all my sundry features, A cross between a cat and (bat-blind race!) Plus heart of a lion (you could eat yours), A mossy tree—but never to my face. What hope for you lesser lyin’ creatures? Feline Conservation Federation Volume 53, Issue 6—November/December 2009

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www.RareSpeciesFund.org 24 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 53, Issue 6—November/December 2009 This direct-to-end-user approach places RSF among the world’s more effective conservation agencies. The RSF contributes to those efforts that have shown themselves to be the most viable in real world conservation of wild species populations. By putting essential money and equipment directly into the hands of people implementing the programs, RSF ensures the greatest value for every dollar spent.

25 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 A “Tim’s-Eye View” of Convention 2011

By Tim Stoffel eye from Reno. I took the airport shuttle to our hotel, the Sheraton Another year, another FCF convention Safari Orlando. Even though it was has come and gone. I have been writing a just 6:30, the people at the hotel let recap article about the convention each me check in waaay early (and they year since at least 2004. I have every year didn't charge me, either). This was proclaimed that year’s convention “the a real blessing, as I was able to get best ever.” I am going to depart from that a solid hour of sleep before the tradition this year, because there was board meeting began. This sleep something profoundly different about this made all the difference in the world year’s convention. Something which I for what turned into a long day. really hope will be the “dawn of a new The board of directors’ meeting era” for the keeping of captive wild was pretty straightforward. But felines. This is not to say that it wasn't a there was much talk of an impor- “good” convention-- it was a very good tant new initiative that I will get to Sandra Stickler poses with her new bobcat convention. But I also think it marks a when I talk about the general mem- buddy at the Thursday evening icebreaker turning point for the organization. So, I bers’ meeting. This was my first mixer. will therefore proclaim this year’s conven- hint that the FCF has a good plan ing crowds. tion as “the most important ever.” for the future. A number of us participated in building It looked for a long time like I was not After the meeting, I went out to lunch enrichment toys for some of the animals at going to be able to attend, due to tight with my friend, Mindy Stinner, and the Dade City's Wild Things. It is always finances. Since I think attending the con- interesting to see how animals react to the vention is a really important part of my toys you make. I made one for a “mystery professional development as a cat keeper big cat.” I would have to wait until the at our zoo (and other places), it is a priori- next day to see what the mystery cat was. ty for me to attend if at all possible. Just before dinnertime, we were blessed Therefore, I started getting things lined up with the appearance of a tiger cub. The to attend, just in case things happened to cub was courtesy of Doc Antle, and this work out. Better late than never! As it especially fine little tiger loved all our turned out, this waiting was a good thing, attention. because a combination of circumstances The general members' meeting followed reduced the overall cost of the trip by 30 dinner, but, unfortunately, a lot of people percent. Lesson: It is never too late to chose to continue with their private con- consider attending if you have otherwise versations. This was especially disap- cleared the hurdles that prevent your par- pointing, because there were some impor- ticipation! tant things discussed, such as the newest I arrived in Orlando at 5:30 AM on This eight-week-old caracal kitten initiative of the FCF, a project to establish Thursday morning, having taken the red- was one of a kind at Convention! an accurate census of captive wild felines. contingent from her facility, the Conservator's Cen- ter in North Caroli- na. This after- board-meeting lunch has also become a tradition at the FCF conven- tion. The after- noon registration was a busy time in the FCF's meeting space in the hotel. Kittens and foxes Convention-goers make unique enrichment toys with and little primates cloth, burlap, hay, ribbon, and enticing scents, which were showing up, Li Quan snuggles with the Beckel- later were given to the big cats at Dade City’s Wild each of them draw- mans’ young Geoffroy’s cat, Ahni. Things. Photo by Tim Stoffel. Photo by Robert Johnson.

26 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 This will eventually lead to the develop- with the enrichment toy I had made the ment of studbooks and other resources previous day. I did finally get to watch needed to ensure that the private sector them play for a while. has sizable, healthy populations of captive A nice catered lunch was served in a wild felines not only for our generation, picnic area among the trees. The Wild but also for our children and our children's Things staff brought out small animals children. The importance of this initiative for us to see, including a couple of cannot be overstated. In addition, the FCF foxes. has developed a plan to recognize people After a looong drive, we arrived at who are stakeholders in the wild feline the next facility, Joe Slaven's Profes- world, creating “professional” member- sional Animals. Joe's place was amaz- ships that reflect the serious commitment ing. Everything was perfect. We spent of such people. These two programs will most of the time inside a giant be very important in the future, helping screened room. (This IS Florida, so the FCF fulfill its mission to “preserve, there are lots of bugs there. But the protect, and propagate our wild feline bugs apparently took a vacation that species.” Properly implemented, the FCF day.) There were several waterfalls can develop a strong hand in dealing with and a rather unusual swimming pool the animal rights folks and government inside this screened room, and the chil- officials who want to regulate everything dren took advantage to cool off. into oblivion. I did ask a lot of questions There were airboat rides, and this at the general meeting, to get a feel for was a lot of fun. I sat in front with the how these initiatives will be implemented. pilot. There were moments when I Joel Slaven demonstrates training We all gathered the next morning for thought I was going to get soaked, but techniques with his dog Journey for our facility visits, elated and excited about did not. The airboat rides were very the registered handlers. Photo by the adventures of the day ahead. After an popular, and ran all day, until just Robert Johnson. hour-long bus ride, we arrived at Dade before we left in the evening. training. It helps, of course, that Joe and City’s Wild Things. It is somewhat like a Mr. Slaven keeps a variety of animals in his dog are best friends. In any case, I zoo and somewhat like an education cen- his facility, including primates (such as will remember this presentation for a long ter, or even a sanctuary. Located in a lemurs), small mammals, small cats, and time! wooded area, the various animal enclo- birds. He also works with domestic ani- After the training presentation, it was sures are scattered around. We saw a vari- mals, like dogs and cats. The caging was time to eat. A very nice barbecue dinner ety of animals, including cats, primates, extremely well built and set in amongst was prepared for us, and the food was out- birds, and bears. There was also an obser- amazing and beautiful landscaping. Few standing. Obviously, the people who were vation gazebo that had been built with the zoos anywhere could match this facility! not registered handlers must have agreed boom of an old crane as the support. After a bit of confusion about where with me on how good the food was. The three guided tour groups converged and when we were meeting, we had the While we were in the presentation, they at the lion enclosure to see the lions get training for the registered handlers. There ate first and ate up all the ribs! But there their enrichment toy that had been made was a lot of anticipation about what Mr. was still plenty of delicious pork loin left for them the previous day. While I was Slaven was going to show us, and this to be had. If you went away from that busy, focused on watching the lions, I did resulted in a lot of new people signing up dinner hungry, it was your own fault! not notice the jaguars behind me, playing to be registered handlers. The anticipation After a final opportunity for airboat was worthwhile. Mr. rides, we boarded the bus to head back to Slaven used his personal the hotel. Someone got the idea to get a pet dog to do a dramatic bunch of ice cream, which we enjoyed and illustrative presentation eating in the patio area just outside the on how you train animals pool. A group of us, including Doc Antle, for various purposes. It conversed with a young person who want- was a very educational pre- ed to get started in the cat world. We have sentation, perhaps the most all been there, so it is always nice to comprehensive one I had encourage (and admonish!) new people to seen since my initial feline get involved however they can. Doc husbandry course way back Antle produced a new toy he had, a tiny, in 2001. But the real star of battery-powered video projector (I had the show was Mr. Slaven's heard of these, but never seen one). I was dog. This was his wearing a light-colored shirt, so Doc used Joel Slaven's "Florida room" was a botanical gar- “untrained pet,” and this my big belly as a projection screen. That den complete with giant bolders, water falls and dog put on a simply amaz- was a very fun night. pools filled with beautiful, giant koi. Photo by ing demonstration of what After a hearty breakfast Saturday morn- Eden Tran. can be done with good

27 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 ing in the hotel's restaurant, it was time for way in South Africa. Although there lecture day. I did not get a chance to see have been some challenges along the the wildcat seminar for the children who way, the program has been “wildly” were attending. This sounded like a lot of successful. As tiger rewilding is a fun and I wish I could somehow be new concept, a lot has been learned, involved, but my real place is listening including some things that were (and running AV) in the adult seminars. counter-intuitive. This presentation The first presentation was supposed to was completely worthy of the hype it be given by Andrew Hintz from Taser was given prior to convention! International. However, he was unable to Before lunch, Lynn Culver gave make the convention. So, on short notice, her usual annual presentation, this Doc Antle gave a presentation that year’s entitled “The Future of FCF addressed the significance of what the and Cats in Captivity.” This presen- FCF is doing and why it is important for tation described her analysis of the everyone to be involved. Doc also data obtained from the USDA on the Jarod Miller acts as auctioneer, along showed us a couple videos with his nifty populations of captive wild cats in the with assistants Mercedes Munser and mini video projector, showing that this U.S. Although very much a work in Heather Hatton. Photo by Tim Stoffel. battery-powered device could adequately process, there were some interesting it at any other FCF convention! light up a 6-foot screen. highlights. For instance, the information Next, the Lotty award was presented. Dr. Jim Sanderson gave an interesting shows that there are some 9,783 wild cats This is the highest award that the FCF presentation entitled “Don't Eat the in USDA records, of which some 2,200 gives, and this year’s recipient (long over- Shrimp,” which illustrated how destruc- are in AZA zoos. This shows that the vast due, in my opinion) was Doc Bhagavan tive fish and palm oil farming are in majority (well over 3/4) of wild cats are in Antle. Congratulations, Doc! You really destroying wild feline habitat in the Far non-AZA facilities, many of which are deserve this award. East. associated in some way with the FCF. The last item of business was the live This underscores how important the role auction. Like last year, Jarod Miller was of the FCF is becoming and how impor- the auctioneer. In a kind of return to the tant it is for all of us to be serious about past, and a sign that things are improving, what we are doing. the live auction raised a lot of money this Michelle Skurski, of Disney's Animal year. The top item was a very special trip Kingdom, gave a presentation entitled “To to South Africa to visit the Save China's Catch a Tiger by the Tail: Husbandry and Tigers project up-close and personal. This Medical Training of the Felids at Disney's is extra special, as it is very rare for out- Animal Kingdom.” Plenty of video clips siders to get to see the facility. This item depicted the high degree of behavioral sold for $3,500, to Bill Boyajian and Mary training that the keepers at Disney's Ani- Roberts, the couple sitting across the table mal Kingdom have achieved in caring for from me. their cats. Discussion that followed An announcement was made about the addressed getting keepers to work together location of next year’s convention: The consistently to achieve this high degree of FCF is once again returning to Cincinnati. conditioning. We will get to see the Cincinnati Zoo's The last presentation, by Dan Stock- Doc Antle shows off his well- new in-the-park cheetah run, as well as the dale, was titled “Presenting a Positive deserved Lotty Award. Photo by all new feline house and puma habitat. Image: Wildlife and Wild Media. Are Tim Stoffel. This should be extra special, as every con- You Thriving or Barely Surviving?” Dan vention held at this venue has been first- The next presentation, given by Jean showed us what we must pay attention to rate. Slosberg, was entitled “My Life with an if we are to create a positive image of cap- Most of you know that I wear a kilt to Amazing Wild Margay.” Jean showed an tive animal husbandry. the banquet each year. I got into quite a incredible video of a margay going about The banquet this year was very special. conversation with another couple at my its day-to-day life and raising kittens in After dinner, we were treated to a perfor- table (not the ones that got the trip), and the Central American jungle. This was mance by “Mbay Louvouezo du we found out we had a lot in common. truly one of the most fascinating and CONGO,” which is apparently the house We talked about swords, armor, fighting, revealing videos I have ever seen at an band for Disney's Animal Kingdom. and other things medieval. It turns out FCF convention, and it shows what can be Garbed in authentic African dress, playing that they make chain maille items and they done with modern camera equipment-- authentic African percussion, this group had a maille shirt that would fit me. They and a very good cat! put on quite a show! At times, they had were also local to the Orlando area. To The keynote presentation was by Li various groups of people up and dancing, make a long story short, I ended up buying Quan and was entitled “Riding the Tiger.” much to the delight of everyone in the a handmade, armor-grade chain maille It was a stem-to-stern look at the Save room. This was a unique performance, shirt, which you can all see at next year’s China's Tigers program currently under- and I cannot ever remember anything like convention!

28 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 USDA Cat Census - Hair-Raising Statistics By Lynn Culver USDA-APHIS totaled over 49,000 cats! ings consisting of: 9 bobcats, 1 caracal, But once I began to pour over the data, I 104 large felids, 103 large felids, 12 small The FCF has embarked on a nationwide realized that at least 20,000 of these cats felids, 8 small felids, 15 small felids, 5 survey of all captive wild felines. This were domestic cats (many held by , 2 leopard cats, 9 lions, 1 North- project involves filing Freedom of Infor- research companies and universities). ern Eurasian lynx, 19 puma, 3 serval, 65 mation Act (FOIA) requests to the USDA- We refined our FOIA request in mid- tigers, and 2 tigers. Here’s how I dealt APHIS office and all state wildlife or state March, requesting the inspection dates for with that information. First off, I com- agriculture agencies. By systematically each inventory result, which will enable pared the large and small felid listings to inventorying all the cats, the FCF will us to correctly remove duplicate censuses. the individually named felids. There are develop an accurate picture of the avail- However, the USDA has yet to comply. 100 large felids by species and 15 small able habitat, as well as the viability of the Working with what I had, I began the long cats by species. Since it was so close, I feline species held by the private sector. process of paring down 30,000 wild removed all the large felid totals and small By locating all cats and all licensed cat felines into a more realistic number in felid totals, and kept the species specific holding facilities, the FCF will be able to preparation to give a talk at convention. listings. reach the starting point for species stud- The USDA data was a combination of At convention I gave preliminary books. AZA studbooks begin by down- species-specific inventories and two gen- results. It takes many reviews of the loading the records held by the Interna- eralized categories – “large felids” and USDA data to catch all the duplicates, and tional Species Inventory System (ISIS). “small felids.” It appears that at some since convention I have found and These listings are used by founding stud- point the USDA became more precise on removed more domestic cats and more book keepers, who take a systematic and inspection reports, but the results I had duplicate listings. For example, the raw comprehensive approach to developing contained both kinds of data. data from USDA listed Frasier Fur Farm the pedigrees of each listed animal, Raw data on NOAH, my own facility, in MT four times: 280 small felids, 400 including birth location, birth date, sex, contained three inspection results. There small felids, 250 small felids, and 95 parentage, transfers, reproduction, and were five entries – large felids 8, large small felids. For the convention presenta- death. felids 3, small felids 49, small felids 45 tion, I included both the 95 small felids By knowing which facilities hold which and small felids 42. Since I have a combi- and the 250 small felids. I have since species, each studbook keeper will know nation of large and small cats, I believe removed the 95 small felids and settled on whom to contact for additional informa- my cougars were considered “small 250. Considering that I have never heard tion. This will require a long-term com- felids” by one inspector as part of the 49 of this USDA facility, I tend to believe mitment from the FCF and its appointed small felids. Some facilities had species- that, sadly, most of these cats do not con- studbook keepers. But this project is criti- specific and large felid and small felid tribute to our live population. cally important to private sector cats and totals. For instance, Turpentine Creek, a Here are some sobering results on the is the best hope for their survival into the large sanctuary in Arkansas, has 14 list- number of cats and species and facilities next decade. There is a crisis providing captive habitat. My in sustainability for most revised calculations add up to feline species in captivity, 9,227 wild cats of all species and only by making informed held in USDA licensed facili- pairings and managing breed- ties. According to the AZA ing,and combining it with a Felid TAG data, AZA zoos strong educational program hold approximately 1,876 cats. for regulators and elected The USDA-licensed private officials about the need for sector population of 7,351 cats private sector populations, is more than three times as can we hope to have our chil- many cats as the AZA zoos dren and grandchildren see No matter where your passion lies, hold. these cats. wildlife education unites us all. The USDA-licensed private The USDA-APHIS sector habitat consists of edu- answered the FCF’s FOIA cational outreach facilities, request with data that is, in The APWE has organized educators at all levels sanctuaries, breeding centers, my opinion, deliberately dys- so those looking for professionals only need to dealers, nature centers, muse- functional. Instead of look at one web site – www.apwe.org ums, and zoos that are not answering our request for the AZA members. Keep in mind most recently known invento- that USDA licensing is ry of cats held by USDA- Member benefits include curriculum resources, required to breed and sell licensed facilities, we continuing education opportunities, feline offspring and it takes at received, for most facilities, least two cats to breed, so the multiple inventory results. In and continued support through our list serve. number of facilities that listed fact, the raw data from the Go to www.apwe.org for details a single animal is significant.

29 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 In fact, only about 5% of USDA-licensed will not be contributing to future gene will remain so into the future. The truth is facilities are breeders or dealers, and over pools unless they are transferred back into that AZA Species Survival Plans are not 95% of the licensed wild feline habitats managed breeding plans for species sur- intended to repopulate nature, or save function primarily as public exhibits. vival. species from extinction in nature, but are Several states, like Massachusetts or Things are not much better for the plans trying to ensure that wild species Michigan for example, do not even allow AZA. The entire combined holding will be available for AZA-member zoos private sector breeding unless it is for the capacity for felines in this 200-member for the next 100 years. AZA Species Survival Plans. This year, zoo association is so minimal that the It is no surprise that Florida has the California Fish and Wildlife stopped issu- feline SSPs must rely upon periodic infu- most cats, followed by California and ing new breeding permits for wildlife. A sions of new genetics taken from the wild Texas. Here is a breakdown of the states significant portion of the tigers, lions, to undo the ill effects of inbreeding. AZA with more than 100 wild felines of various leopard, and puma in the private sector is Feline Species Survival Plans, as imple- species: located in sanctuary habitat, and therefore mented, are still a net drain on nature and Florida 1,150 Pennsylvania 283 Georgia 191 California 852 Wisconsin 278 Michigan 191 Texas 768 North Carolina 269 Missouri 172 Indiana 403 Arizona 254 Minnesota 165 Ohio 309 Kansas 237 South Carolina 157 Oklahoma 352 Arkansas 214 North Dakota 156 Montana 332 Illinois 213 Alabama 154 Oregon 313 New York 198 Louisiana 111 Colorado 298 Nevada 192 Virginia 107 And these are the states with less than 100 wild cats of all species. Remember, this is both the AZA and the private sector: Tennessee 93 Nebraska 53 Alaska 16 South Dakota 89 New Mexico 49 Connecticut 12 Massachusetts 88 Mississippi 45 Hawaii 12 New Jersey 83 Utah 44 New Hampshire 10 Iowa 74 West Virginia 38 Delaware 4 Maryland 64 Kentucky 30 Rhode Island 2 Washington 64 Idaho 26 Wyoming 1 Maine 56 DC 20 Vermont 0 The USDA database consists of the fol- Asian golden cat, or the Spanish lynx, as the private sector would have a negative lowing feline categories: large felid (a they are probably misidentified species. inventory, which won’t work, so I adjust- generic term to cover nine species and a Some inventories listed felines by ed to correct for this. The first column ): tiger, lion, puma, leopard, chee- species, and some inventories only listed contains the cats according to the species; tah, snow leopard, jaguar, clouded leop- large or small felids. In the charts below, I the second column combines the addition- ard, liger; and small felid (a generic term took the total of the generic felids and al cats of each species derived from the to cover 17 possible species): bobcat, ser- divided these numbers according to the generic large felids total; the third column val, Canada lynx, caracal, ocelot, Northern known species ratio of large and small is the number of cats held by AZA-mem- Eurasian lynx, Spanish lynx, leopard cat, species, then made a few adjustments to ber zoos according to the 2010 Felid TAG Geoffroy’s cat, jungle cat, fishing cat, Pal- take into consideration known populations report; and the forth column has subtract- las’s cat, sand cat, black-footed cat, Asian of rarer cats, such as cheetah, snow leop- ed those AZA cats from the total USDA golden cat, margay, wildcat, and African ard, and clouded leopard. Had I used just inventory and is the private sector cats of golden cat. Of these listed species, I the ratio formula, the number of cheetah each species. doubt the existence of the African or would be less than the AZA inventory and Large Felids USDA USDA w/ Large Felids Added AZA Zoos Private Facilities

Tiger 2,014 2,621 244 2,377 Lion 795 1,024 331 693 Puma 673 880 119 761 Leopard 436 562 96 466 Cheetah 180 270 259 11 Snow Leopard 118 170 150 20 Jaguar 107 141 93 48 Clouded Leopard 60 88 65 23 Liger 24 32 0 32 Large Felids (unspecified) 1,381 0 0 0 Totals 5,788 5,788 1,357 4,431

30 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 Small Felids USDA USDA w/ Small Felids Added AZA Zoos Private Facilities Bobcat 822 1,257 50 1,207 Serval 542 829 97 732 Canada Lynx 286 438 48 380 Caracal 119 192 44 148 Ocelot 108 166 95 61 Eurasian Lynx 95 145 20 125 Leopard Cat 32 49 0 49 Geoffroy’s Cat 53 81 0 81 Jungle Cat 40 61 0 61 Fishing Cat 38 62 42 20 Pallas’s Cat 37 56 47 9 Sand Cat 31 47 29 18 Black-Footed Cat 23 35 45 0 Asian Golden Cat 8 8 0 8 Margay 5 5 2 3 Wildcat 5 8 0 8 1 1 0 1 Small Felids (unspecified) 1,185 0 0 0 Totals 3,430 3,430 519 2,911 So much of the national media is focused on the tiger population in the U.S., and speculation that it exceeds 10,000 animals. The truth is that most states have less than 50 tigers. Here are all the states with more than 50 tigers listed (AZA and private sector) and the number of USDA-licensed facilities holding these tigers. For this chart, I did not add any of the uncategorized “large felids.” STATE # tigers # facilities STATE # tigers # facilities Florida 227 35 South Carolina 91 5 Texas 259 33 Illinois 67 8 Oklahoma 164 10 Wisconsin 66 12 Indiana 158 10 North Carolina 66 9 Colorado 141 4 Ohio 60 9 Arkansas 83 5 Kansas 59 11 California 80 22 And what about those Texans and all their tigers and other big cats? Here is a breakdown of the large cats living in Texas, in USDA-licensed facilities, by species. Again, I have a column for the inventory of each large cat species and one that is the combina- tion of the uncategorized large felids proportioned out according to the same ratio of named large cats and the species-specific totals: Texas Large Cats # Listed Total w/ Large Felids Added Texas Large Cats # Listed Total w/ Large Felids Added Tiger 259 325 Leopard 30 37 Lion 76 95 Clouded Leopard 5 6 Puma 53 66 Large Felids (unsp.) 116 0 Cheetah 41 51 Totals 580 580 As you can see, there are not 5,000 geous fear-mongering claims that their ing so loud. tigers, and there are not “more tigers liv- neighbors’ wildlife will escape and kill The total wild feline population derived ing in Texas than in India.” There are them. from both the Florida G & F and the between 259 and 325 tigers living in Florida is the fourth most populated USDA census is 1,487 cats. Indeed, Flori- Texas. And this USDA inventory includes state, behind CA, NY, and TX, and has a da has more captive habitat and is defi- Wild Animal Orphanage, which is shut- population of over 18 million people. nitely the most cat-rich state in the coun- ting down, with most of the 60 large cats Florida Game and Fish has been regulat- try, but when we take into consideration there have since left the state of Texas, so ing captive wildlife through a permit sys- the number of citizens who COULD be that the Texas population numbers are tem since the 1970s. In 2005, I requested participating in responsible captive hus- actually lower than what is published in the current Florida state feline licensee list bandry, the numbers are frighteningly low. this article. Are there lots of non-USDA from the Florida G & F and received 323 The next most feline-populated state, Cali- tigers in Texas? No, and I will cover the names. In 2008, I requested another list of fornia, has just 90 USDA facilities. This status of non-USDA-licensed habitat in Florida feline licenses, and it contained state does not allow non-commercial pos- the September Journal. just 298 names. In 2011, the FCF request session, so this is the total captive habitat And what is going on in Florida? We returned a current list of just 230 Floridi- available for cats. Texas has just 63 know there is a very vocal termagant in ans who are licensed to hold felines. USDA licensed facilities, and of that, 13 Florida, who is heading a national cam- That’s one wild feline owner for every are AZA zoos and only 50 are private sec- paign to bring about the extinction of all 78,000 residents; hardly an epidemic, and tor facilities. captive feline populations. She is terroriz- definitively a phony issue. Shame on the ing the citizens of this state with outra- person standing on that soapbox scream- 31 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 A Fishing Cat Family Diary

By Yvonne Rijsdijk visits, several hundred pictures and over themselves and each other. Their bond is 40 small video clips were taken to be able strong and they show affection towards Although various studies of the fishing to review body postures and facial expres- each other through grooming, rubbing cat ( viverrinus) have been sions in order to determine behavioral pat- side to side with the tails jumping up, and done and are still ongoing, a lot of its terns. At the beginning of the observa- soft, undefined sounds. They seldom behavior and habits are yet to be discov- tions, the female had given birth to three wade through the water, but, when they ered. It is not easy to get a grasp of this kittens that were about five weeks old at do, the tail is held above the water hori- reclusive cat in the wild, or in captivity the first visit. During the survey period, zontally with the tip slightly up. the female and her kittens Family behavior: Date – week – age of occupied the inside kittens enclosure, which was July 5 – no. 1 – 5 wks separated from the out- This was the first day of the survey. side enclosure via a slid- For the most part, the kittens slept and ing glass door. This was nursed, but every now and then they woke necessary because, in up and wobbled around a little. Not one 2009, the births occurred of the kittens pushed or shoved for a midway through June favorite nipple. They seemed very con- (much later than in previ- tent with the one they had. It is unknown ous years) and the weath- if there had been any such behavior in the er was cold and rainy. first four weeks, since the kittens could Due to this, the male not be seen prior to this fifth week. It was stayed in the outside striking how the female had an overall enclosure on his own, but blissful look in her eyes and no effort was was able to have contact too much for her in taking care of the with his family, visually three kittens. Although very young and A pair of young fishing cats belly up to the "milk through the glass and a small, signs of stalking and hunting bar." Photo by Y. Rijsdijk. round fenced opening behavior (at each other) were already measuring about 60 cm (# starting to show. Around 4:00 PM, the either (in this short study, a zoo). Fishing inches). This 2009 survey was the third female began looking through the win- cats can be found throughout Asia; survey in which kittens were observed dow. The male showed up, walking by Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, India, growing up. The previous years were the window, and every now and then he Indonesia (Java), Laos, Burma (Myan- 2007 and 2008, both from the beginning sat down and looked inside at the female mar), Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and of April (with kittens aged about five and kittens. The female responded to this Vietnam. Malaysia and China not con- weeks) up to the end of September. In by rolling over and stretching her front firmed, and it is probably extinct in Pak- these two previous studies, the male was legs out to him, while looking at him istan. reunited with his family when the kittens through the window. Habitats – In the wild vs. captivity had reached three months of age. July 12 – no. 2 – 6 wks As their habitat consists of mangroves, General behavior The kittens looked bigger and, swampy areas, dense riverbanks, reed Due to regular visits over the last four although they were still sleeping a lot, the beds, and tidal areas, in captivity these years, the overall behavior of conditions are not always met, be it total this fishing cat couple has or at all. However, it seems that fishing become fairly predictable. cats are usually quite content in a captive Both the male and female enclosure if it offers vegetational cover, have several resting places of some view points, resting places which their own, which they use offer a sufficient feeling of security and during the day. As with most safety, and of course water, like a pond or zoo animals, they do not small stream. An inside enclosure for respond to tapping on the overall shelter is mandatory and also well window, calls trying to lure appreciated by these cats. them, or screaming children. Method and circumstances Most of the day, they doze During a period of 14 weeks in 2009 and sleep, but their ears give (July 5 to October 9), a fishing cat family away that they still pay atten- was observed on Sunday afternoons, in tion while dozing. Later in their enclosure in a zoo, always from the afternoon, both male and around 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM (the zoo’s female walk around, drink In addition to being the "milk bar," Mom makes closing time). During the course of the from the pond, and groom a nice pillow, too. Photo by Y. Rijsdijk.

32 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 overall activity had increased. All playing attention of her brothers weak- behavior that is known with domestic cats ened, she went for it, although at this age could be seen and differences this sometimes took several between the kittens were becoming clear- hours! A small water pond was er. Two of the kittens were now bigger placed in the enclosure and the than the third and smallest kitten (they kittens could not stop playing turned out to be two males and one in it. Dragging bits and pieces female). The two males had several white of wood and food into the toes. In contradiction to the female kitten pond, they would then catch it which behaved a little passively, the two with paws and claws out- males were very inquisitive. Also, early stretched. The male visited the signs of rivalry between the males could window as before, showing a already be noticed. They would stare at lot of interest. His face no each other for minutes to impress one longer showed anxiety and the another while claiming food (usually dark part of his lower lip did chicks and rats) already in their mouths not show. Later, he would lie with firmly gripped claws. As on the pre- down in front of the window, vious Sunday, the adult male came by grooming himself. The around 4:00 PM. When looking at the kit- response of the female was as tens through the window, the black part of in the previous week. his lower lip could be seen (Fig. 1) and July 26 – no. 4 – 8 wks A startled female fishing cat kitten and the the ears were slightly bent down. The kittens had grown fast male outside, July 12, 2009. Photo by Y. Rijs- Although this is known behavior in in one week, and their snouts dijk. domestic cats (having cats of my own, I were starting to grow longer to anxiety whatsoever. have come to recognize this as an anxious resemble the typical fishing cat snout. August 2 – no. 5 – 9 wks feeling where underlying jealousy and Not only the size of the kittens, but also The kittens were playful and inex- insecurity can play a part as well in vari- the markings on their little foreheads dis- haustible, and the female regularly ous gradations), it is not sure whether or tinguished them clearly from one another. jumped up to a higher positioned resting not this would convey the same meaning The routine in the enclosure was the same place to escape them for a while. The kit- in fishing cat behavior. This was the first as in the previous week, but the overall tens were still too small to climb the tree and only time the male showed this kind “blissful” look on the female’s face had that led to this higher resting place. While of behavior. From the reaction of the kit- somewhat diminished. When the male observing the kittens, all kinds of playing tens, it was clear they recognized “a cat” walked by at the usual time, he now sud- behavior that is known with domestic cat on the other side of the window. denly stuck his head and upper body into kittens at the age of 12 weeks can be seen, July 19 – no. 3 – 7 wks the round "visiting" hole and called to the only much rougher. Clearly they develop Ranking between kittens is taking kittens with a vocalization sounding like, much faster than domestic cat kittens. On shape; the bigger males were eating first, “crouwerouwrouw.” Immediately, the kit- this Sunday, the male did not show up, chasing the female away to eat last. Her tens ran toward him, staring through the since he was dozing on his own regular behavior was opposite that of the males. fence that separated them. The male resting place in the outside enclosure. As they quarrelled over food, the female walked away, but repeated this behavior August 9 – no. 6 – 10 wks patiently awaited her chance to get what several times. The female seemed totally The fluffy fur of the kittens had slowly she wanted. She would stare at the object at ease with the male behaving this way started to change into a sleeker coat and (meat) of her desire and, as soon as the and she showed no signs of hostility or the overall body shape was beginning to look much more like the recognisable adult, with the long snout, short tail, and somewhat short legs. They also started to climb the tree in the enclosure. By now, it was very clear that all three kittens had totally different personalities. The bigger of the two males had a very curious nature, whereas the other male was more suspicious. The female kitten was by far the most patient. The adult male walked by as usual, looking totally at ease know- ing the kittens were there. August 16 – no. 7 – 11 wks As in the previous week, the bodies’ of the kittens had grown (elongated) a lot; The presence of raw meat excites one kitten to hiss at his sibling, declar- the feet and claws had grown much big- ing the feast to be "all mine." Photo by Y. Rijkdijk.

33 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 ger. Climbing the tree in the enclosure was no longer a problem for them. All kittens were noticing the zoo visitors out- side that were looking through the thick, almost sound proof, front glass window. Their reaction was careful and hesitant, where the tail slowly drops down and curiosity sets in. The kittens’ playing had become even more serious than in the previous weeks, and body posture showed they meant business when it came to food or lying at their favorite place with their mother. The smaller of the two male kittens and the female kitten were constantly testing the boundaries toward each other. August 23 – no. 8 – 12 wks The female called regularly to her kit- The female kitten goes from suspicion (left) to curiosity (right), August tens. The call could be heard even 16, 2009. Photo Y. Rijsdijk. through the thick glass window and it the male was not observed). This week, September 6 – no. 10 – 14 wks sounded like a loud “miouwwwwr- the male stayed in front of the window The kittens had grown much in the last rouww.” Although the kittens had previ- that separated him from his family, and he week. Their still grayish fur color seemed ously played mostly with each other and lay down with his face toward the win- to show more brown variations, and they pieces of wood and leaves, they were now dow. The female reacted to this the same were starting to look more and more like occupied with the bits of meat that could way as the male had in the second survey adults. The food that was placed in the be found all over the enclosure. They week (July 12), by showing the black part enclosure was grabbed quickly, and any tossed them high in the air and jumped to of her lower lip and having her ears slight- attempts at stealing among the kittens and retrieve them with claws totally stretched ly bent down. Then the female’s body mother were immediately cut off by a and whiskers pointed forward. The seri- posture changed and she hissed at him, quick, fierce hiss and stare. Most of the ous squabbling behavior between all kit- but the male maintained his position, white on the toes of the two male kittens tens that was going on in previous weeks looking comfortable and totally at ease. had disappeared, as had the blissful look had almost disappeared. Every now and His ears and head moved slightly, follow- that was previously seen on the adult then they lashed out at each other, but it is ing the female’s movements. Since the female’s face. The male walked by and clear that each of them knew their place. male was only a short distance away lay in front of the window looking at the As always, the male turned up, only this (about 2 meters or 6.5 feet), it was clearly kittens. time late in the afternoon. As he had done visible how he squeezed his eyes at the September 20 – no. 11 – 16 wks before, he stuck his head and upper body same time to comfort her, so that slowly The kittens looked still bigger, the into the round "visiting" hole and called the female relaxed and laid down right fluffy fur was almost totally gone, and the kittens to him with his usual call, to next to the window and fell asleep. their bodies had elongated a bit more. which the kittens responded in the same August 30 – no. 9 – 13 wks Although they still played with each other way as before (note that in 2007 and 2008, The family was behaving in the same every now and then, they mostly kept to the kittens were already in the outside way as the previous week. The male was themselves. As on most Sundays, the enclosure by this time and this behavior of not seen. male walked by, sitting down at the win- dow to look at the kittens. They came close to the window to peer back at him. He called to them through the round hole with his usual call and the kittens respond- ed. After 20 minutes, he retired to his resting place on a tree branch in the back of the outside enclosure, which offered him a view to the window. September 26 through October 12 – no. 12-14 – 19 wks During the final visits, the kittens looked like small adults, showing all typi- cal fishing cat characteristics. The food presented to them during these last weeks consisted of whole rabbits. The female The female is anxious due to the male’s new behavior, August 23, 2009. plucked her prey before eating it. The kit- Photo by Y. Rijsdijk.

34 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 tens would then quickly grab it and the survey. This is con- female would begin plucking the next rab- firmation of infor- bit and so on, until everybody had their mation gained dur- share. During these last weeks, the fami- ing previous years ly’s behavior did not change much. The of observation. As kittens still played, but mostly separately. fishing cats have They even chased their own tails, taking distinctive facial the tips in their mouths. Individual rank- features, it seems ing was determined around week 8 (at that the different about 12 weeks of age), and gameplay faces and facial was no longer fierce in nature. The male expressions reflect visited as always with his usual vocaliza- the nature of each tions, to which the kittens responded in individual more kind, and the female was totally content clearly than with with this. other cat species. Conclusion The markings on the During the short 2009 survey, it seems forehead and on that the male was determined to be a part both sides of the Fishing Cat love. This pair is not the Netherlands cou- of the family, and it seems clear that he nose can perhaps be ple from the article, but residents of the Smithsonian wanted the kittens nearby. The kittens used in the wild to National Zoological park. Photographer and animal had never shown any reaction that indicat- distinguish individu- keeper Courtney Janney says the only thing that’d ed fear of the male other than on the first als. During play, the make this pic sweeter is a few kittens snuggled in survey day. Behavior of the male and exceptionally longthere, too… female clearly indicated their strong bond, toes and ability to although they were separated during this spread the claws out widely were noted, as well as their playfulness and overall gentle and friendly nature. Minutes from FCF’s Second quarter Meeting 2011

By Kevin Chambers killing wildlife when simple caution can following: “# 15. All members of the prevent it. The sum of $800 was Feline Conservation Federation are The FCF Board of Directors held their approved to Marianela Velilla, in expected to behave in a kind and courte- second quarter meeting on May 15- 31, Paraguay, doing a census of cat species ous manner. The public defamation of 2011, on the forum section of the FCF using non-invasive fecal DNA testing, individual members, the board of direc- website. Those participating were: Kevin with follow up work which the FCF may tors, or the organization at large, whether Chambers, Patty Perry, George DeLong, or may not fund. Marianela will need to in person or electronically, may be consid- MariLin Antle, Robert Johnson, Pat Calla- reapply. Motion carried 5-0. ered grounds for expulsion from an event han, and Teresa Shaffer. Pat Callahan reported that he has not and/or the organization. The board of Treasurer MariLin Antle gave the first had a chance to start on the FCF caracal directors shall review such actions by quarter treasurer’s report with a break- studbook. members and determine appropriate down of income and expenses. The FCF George DeLong reported that he has responsive actions on a case-by-case had a net profit of $6223.79, for the first filed the renewal for the FCF Corporation. basis.” Motion carried 6-1. quarter. George reported that no Articles of Incor- The meeting was adjourned on May 29, Minutes of the first quarter were given poration change is needed because of the 2011. by Secretary George DeLong and constitutional amendment reducing the approved as corrected. number of directors. Rob Johnson presented some proposed George presented changes for the FCF accreditation process. a draft of an updated Join the Zoological Association of America After some discussion, it was decided that mission statement. the board should address this at conven- Some discussion Several levels of membership tion. took place that it include commercial, educational, facility, and individual. Pat Callahan made a motion, seconded needed further Facility Accreditation is also by Rob Johnson, that the FCF board vote refinement. No available. yes or no on funding via the regular Con- actions were taken. servation Grant process. The amount of Robert Johnson $1,500 was approved for Javier Pereia, in moved, seconded by promoting the P.O. Box 511275 Punta Gorda, FL 33951 Argentina, doing education outreach to the MariLin Antle, that responsible ownership, management, and propagation 941-621-2021 communities about the problem of feral the FCF Programs of animals in both info@zaaorg dogs and cats causing serious damage to and Policies be private and public domains www.zaa.org wildlife, and vehicle traffic outright amended to add the

35 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011

This is the third and final installment of a very important three-part series by Lea Jaunakais. After explaining how to prevent an outbreak of illness by vacci- nating your big cats, then isolating and controlling the spread of disease that’s already been detected, Lea now shares the final chapter of her personal story and what should be done to help avoid similar results at your own facility. Diagnosis and Treatment of an Outbreak

analyzed, multiple vets By Lea Jaunakais, President and Founder were consulted and a pre- of Tiger World (www.tigerworld.us) sumptive diagnosis of and Dr. Juston Schmidtke, DVM small intestinal bacterial overgrowth and para- Tiger World’s outbreak of the par- sitism was made with his- vovirus began on Friday, January 14, tory and clinical signs. 2011. Our 22-week-old baby jaguar, Considerations were Diego, had diarrhea. To cat owners, that’s made for possible not too unusual, and in regards to our obstruction. Diego was baby jaguars, we had already made sever- treated for parasites al visits to our veterinarian for treatment (round worms) and an of bacterial infections. The first illness apparent infection noted was when young Diego was only a few from his blood work. days old and had contracted an infection Diego’s treatment includ- through the umbilical cord. The infection ed pyrantel pamoateLea Jaunakais with young jaguar siblings Diego was so severe it propagated seizures by (Strongid) for the round and Dora. Photo by Mike McBride. affecting his brain and causing severely worms, antiemetics (Cernia) for vomiting ered the topic of canine parvovirus (CPV) low blood glucose levels. We weren't sure and nausea, bowel coating agents emerging in cats, including big cats, and he was going to survive, but, surprisingly, (Kaopectate), injectable vitamins, and the rapid mutations occurring that are he pulled through. Dora, Diego’s litter- subcutaneous fluids. Sadly, within 36 jumping species. The CDC article identi- mate, shared many similar clinical signs hours of his first symptom, Diego passed fied that a common test used in canines to with Diego, though her illness was mild away. With his diagnosis, there was no identify canine parvovirus, a SNAP and she remained robust. At 12 weeks of concern of it being contagious; therefore, ELISA, would be useful in identifying the age, Diego had another bacterial infection. no quarantine procedures were imple- presence of canine parvovirus or feline Symptoms were vomiting and diarrhea, mented at that time. We ran blood panels panleukopenia virus (FPV) in felines, this time originating in his bowl sec- on Diego’s cage mates, his sister Dora and since they are similar versions of the par- ondary to attempts to transition from bot- their friend Mohan, a white Bengal tiger, vovirus. This finding prompted me to ask tle to meat. Poultry for our jaguars was to ensure they were well, and blood work my veterinarian to run the SNAP test on not well tolerated and red meat was the indicated everything was normal. Then, Dora, which quickly became positive for preference. Again, we almost lost him, two days later, Dora became disinterested parvovirus and indicated either CPV or but with 24-hour care, antibiotics, and in food, but had not developed vomiting FPV. After the SNAP test was positive, maintaining hydration via subcutaneous or diarrhea. We immediately took her to we sent samples for analysis to Antech (SQ) fluids, he survived. The primary the veterinarian, and, although the diagno- Labs. Their results indicated Dora was reason the jaguars had been so susceptible sis was again upset stomach secondary to negative for FPV and positive for CPV, was that they were never able to receive small intestinal bacterial over- any milk from their mother. Their mother, growth (SIBO), I knew there Tia, had developed mammary cysts and was something else unresolved. was unable to nurse the babies. It is vital In the three days since for newborns to receive the mother’s first Diego’s death, I had done a lot milk, also called colostrum. Colostrum is of independent research, includ- comprised of vital nutrients and antibodies ing internet searches and con- that the babies absorb to build their earli- tacting other zoos and facilities est immune systems via the maternal anti- about potential similar experi- bodies. ences. I came across an article That Friday, in January, Diego had diar- published by the Center for Dis- rhea and began vomiting. Immediately, ease Control and Prevention we sought help from one of our local vet- (CDC), “Feline Host Range of erinarians, Dr. Juston Schmidtke. He took Canine Parvovirus: Recent blood and stool samples, then analyzed Emergence of New Antigenic Cagemates Diego, Mohan, and Dora. Photo them to determine what was wrong. Once Types in Cats.” The article cov- by Mike McBride.

36 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 therefore, our treatment was based on that intake and bodily diagnosis. It was not until we sent the eliminations. samples to Cornell University for DNA A sound veteri- analysis via PCR (polymerase chain reac- nary client patient tion), that we learned FPV was identified relationship as the culprit, although it was mutated and (VCPR) is one in did have primers from CPV. Once par- which the veteri- Phone: 1.877.678.7342 vovirus was diagnosed, we instituted quar- narian and antine protocols as described in article two owner/handler Email: [email protected] of this series, “Outbreak, Now What? both have a clear Fax: 1.801.304.5551 Quarantine!” We also consulted with our understanding of local animal control and learned of an out- the patient, their break within our county where up to ten needs, and what animals were dying from parvovirus each is expected of Liability Insurance for the day. Furthermore, we discovered an arti- each person cle published only a few months prior, involved. A trust- “Big Cats” in your Life! where an apartment complex near the zoo ing relationship is Call us or have your agent contact us about insurance options for people who rescue and/or We guarantee you a free, had over 130 animals (cats and dogs) die vital. Knowing have pets in the “Big Cat” feline family: in a three-week period from parvovirus. the patient’s his- customized quote with Though we suspect a correlation between tory is also cru- Ȉ All Cats, Exotic Pets & Canines General Liability options and solutions the outbreaks, no actual connection cial; take for Ȉ Ȉ Property Damage for coverage, or between these events has been made. instance Diego Ȉ Show and Educational Events Diagnosis (most aspects of this section and Dora, who Ȉ Animal Mortality you get $100!* written by Dr. Schmidtke) were inevitably Also Available - Individual Liability Insurance To achieve an accurate diagnosis, sever- predisposed to *Excess & Surplus lines insurance. Based on a completed al criteria are needed (in no particular disease and infec- application. This offer may be discontinued at any time. order): tion at an early • Clear and detailed communication age due to their between the zoo owner/handler and lack of colostrum veterinarian. at birth. Keen • History of the patient. observation and • Early diagnostic testing for baseline intimate knowl- values and in the face of illness. edge of normal • Close routine observation of patient activity and onset of the outbreak with Diego, thoughts and its behavior/attitude, including food behavior are also essential for definitive of a bone marrow disorder (myelodyspla- diagnosis. Routine sia), indicated by a low white blood cell baseline blood work count, was considered since Diego was aids in early detec- being treated with a medication for ring- tion of disease states worm, a type of fungal skin infection, and can be utilized as which can cause such an event. However, a point of compari- low on the list, other viral disorders like son when a patient is panleukopenia was considered, since the ill, which was valu- WBC count also drops significantly in able in Mohan’s infected patients. The chart identifies the case. You can also changes in the WBC of parvovirus infect- obtain normal blood ed patients Dora, Diego, and Mohan. values for individual The rapid advancement of clinical signs species from the made adequate treatment difficult with International Species respect to Diego, however, with Dora, Information System Mohan, and Malia, we had a chance. In (ISIS). When Diego Dora’s case, thankfully, Lea was perform- and Dora became ill, ing outstanding detective work, thorough- blood work was uti- ly exercising her communication and net- Dr. Juston Schmidtke, DVM, is a graduate of Auburn lized to evaluate working skills and thus was able to help University. He is currently employed at Rowan Animal organ function, white us. The use of the SNAP test identifica- Clinic, in Salisbury, North Carolina. He practices both blood cell counts tion of parvovirus infection provides rea- small and large animal medicine and surgery, as well (WBC), indications of sonable accuracy and speed, thus testing as exotic animal medicine and surgery. Dr. Schmidtke bacterial or viral became a “SNAP.” is pictured with Diego the jaguar the day before Diego infections, and protein The SNAP test allowed us to test daily passed away. concentration. At the for the presence of feline panleukopenia

37 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 virus (FPV). The par- For Malia and Mohan, vovirus SNAP test from we were able to perform Idexx was utilized once Donations all treatments without again when Lea noticed sedation. Malia was not that one of their rarest fond of the SQ fluids and tigers, Malia, began to dis- The FCF Board of Directors thanks the following individuals who have it was a challenge to keep play signs of malaise and made donations to FCF projects since the last published Journal. These her sedentary, but we lack of appetite; though ini- generous donations provide additional funding for special projects such as were able to get some tially negative, Malia later creating educational materials for members and legislators, helping support needed hydration to her. tested positive on the feline conservation, and improving captive feline welfare. After two days of admin- SNAP test, too. Ultimately, istering a liquid diet oral- if one suspects FPV or We appreciate each donation, no matter the amount, recognizing that it is ly, we additionally force- CPV, early testing is highly the many small gifts that, when combined, add up and make a difference in fed her a few turkey recommended. The most the effectiveness of the FCF. We encourage everyone to follow this exam- meatballs and, within common clinical finds with ple and donate funds for projects that interest you. another two days, she parvovirus are: was eating ground turkey Rare Species Fund: • reduced appetite on her own. After each • lethargy Wildlife & Environmental Con- General Fund: time administering liq- • nausea servation Mirjam van Dalum uid/food orally, we would • vomiting (frothy, bile, Special Projects: Capital One wait and observe her for foam) Tiger Missing Link Foundation two hours to ensure she • diarrhea (smells dis- kept it down. We could tinctly different) The FCF appreciates your generosity and continued support. clearly see she was still • abdominal discomfort nauseated, but the Cere- (identified by palpation) tion being a key factor, several routes are nia made the difference in keeping medi- • fever or sub-normal temperature plausible, but intravenous administration cine, food, and liquid down. The sooner • hovering over the water bowl for is by far the best. An intravenous you can get them back to eating, the better extended periods indwelling catheter may allow for less it will be to help with the repair of the gas- • malaise – change in behavior, not stressful and inconspicuous administration trointestinal tract. In emergency or dire their normal self of fluids if the patient allows – long exten- situations, blood products can be utilized • low white blood cell (WBC) count sions would be suggested. Fluids under in an attempt to stabilize protein levels. • low to low-normal total protein or the skin help, but are a bit less than ideal, Besides antibiotics, canine plasma with albumen (blood protein) and oral fluids also help, though they may CPV antibodies and albumen was • increased alanine transferase (ALT) be neither well tolerated, nor easily employed in treating Dora. Both of these (non-specific indicator of cell turnover in administered in a nauseated, combative treatments helped, as seen with the the bowel; can indicate liver function) patient. Nausea must be “controlled,” changes in her white count on the last day, • increased lipase (non-specific indica- which for Malia was successful with SQ but the effects were short lived due to the tor of cell turnover in the bowel) injections of Cerenia administered once already extensive damage of the bowel. A Treatment (most aspects of this section daily (do not use for more than four days). feeding tube was also tried for Dora, but written by Dr. Schmidtke) This allowed us to administer a liquid diet in the end, no matter the treatment, we Initially, an alternative presumptive and medicine orally (force-fed by were unsuccessful at saving her life. diagnosis of intestinal parasitism and syringe). Malia was being given the Before giving any blood products, if time small intestinal bacterial overgrowth antibiotic Clavamox every 12 hours, permits, one may consider performing a (SIBO) were being treated with anti- crushed up and mixed with Rebound for minor cross-match to ensure full compati- helminics, antiemetics, antibiotics, and secondary infection, injections of vitamins bility and no reactivity between the blood gastroprotectents, as well as injections of B, C, A & D, and SQ fluids of Ringer’s products and recipient. Close and thor- vitamins and subcutaneous fluids. Start- solution. Re-feeding is essential to nour- ough observation during all of the above- ing treatment early with supportive care ish the already severely damaged gastroin- mentioned treatments by a qualified com- will aid in the attempt to provide the best testinal tract. Prepared diets, such as petent veterinarian is necessary. possible outcome. There is no cure for “Rebound,” “Clinicare,” or “Ensure,” can In conclusion, without the relationship parvovirus, so only the symptoms can be be utilized. Solid food like ground poultry we have developed with our vets and the treated. The antiemetic (antivomiting/nau- is usually well tolerated, also. ability to work with our cats without seda- sea) medication utilized was Cerenia, You want to minimize the use of seda- tion, we may not have been able to save which although is labeled for use in dogs tives when at all possible. Since the han- Malia or Mohan. It was critical to contin- only, was noted to be extremely effective dling of big cats depends on the animal ually test and identify the disease early on, in controlling nausea and vomiting in our and facility, based on your capabilities, do which made the difference in the outcome. big cats, especially in Malia’s case. Com- whatever you can to keep stress to the ani- mon gastric coating agents, such as mal at a minimum. Excessive sedation In loving memory of Dora and Diego… Kaopectate, can be utilized safely when serves only to further stress the already they will be forever in our hearts! possible to administer orally. With hydra- compromised systems of these patients.

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Mazuri® Feline Feeds: Exotic Feline Large–5M53, Exotic Feline Small–5M54 Nancy Barter photographed her pair of Siberian lynx, Raz and Natty, lounging the day away in Georgia.

Mohan is sandwiched between Dora and Diego jaguars at Tiger World, in North Carolina. Photo by Mike McBride.

Gretchen Mogensen shot this adorable one of Tavo tiger cub nibbling at the Natural Bridge Zoo, in Virginia. Your Best Shots

FCF webmaster Chuck Bunnell, makes sure Mocha the Kathleen Lamke caught snow tiger Arthur in a pensive puma gets her greens. Photo by Chuck’s wife, Karen. mood at the Conservator's Center, Inc., in North Carolina. Siberian lynx Natasha, at Creek Feline Center in Florida, Ahniwake, Kurt Beckelman's Geoffroy's cat, was as popular looks tired from rolling her big bowling ball around. Photo by as she is pretty at the FCF convention. Photo by Tim Stoffel. Alexandra Brielmayer.

Golden or white - take your pick. You can see Sable and Satin grow up at the Brown's Zoo, in Illinois. Little lion cub Ngala makes the purrfect accent in a Photo by Wayne Huckabee. bouquet of purple flowers. Photo by Teresa Shaffer. Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 Blast from the Past: Letter to the Queen of Sheba Long Island Ocelot Club Newsletter Don L. Williams Volume 8 Number 2 21952 S. Hansom March/April 1964 Torrance, CA 90502 Dear Sheba: It has come to our attention since we moved into our new home that you have been behaving in a most unladylike manner - - 1. When guests enter the house, instead of greeting them as a young lady should, you run and hide. 2. We don't know what is so appealing about eating on top of the refrigerator; however, we will go along with you on that point if you will stop "dropping" your chicken necks to the floor and then meowing for someone to return them to you. 3. When you want to exercise, you must find some means other than climbing door jams and going for a run on the mantle. 4. We know how dearly you love our toes and ankles, but if you don't stop nibbling at them, there won't be any left for you to shower your attention on. 5. We appreciate your homemaking tendencies, but your opening the cupboards and drawers and rearranging the contents to your satisfaction is hampering the efficiency of our kitchen. 6. Last but not least, the children have registered a complaint that you want the largest portion of the bed at night, and when they move you over a little bit, you voice loud disapproval. We trust you will take the necessary steps to better your behavior, but if your little ocelot heart is against it, please be assured we will continue to love you nonetheless. Your family, Dad, Mom, Rex, Richard, and Janie New Members plete the Bosse family. Mr. & Mrs. Randall Franks, 576 Gar- David J Adanls, 1183 Curtis Ave., San Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Curtis, 8704 S. Dal- land Ave., Fortuna, CA, have a new, tiny Jose, CA , is the new owner of a 12-pound ton Ave., Los Angeles, CA, own a very ocelot kitten named Maya. At six or two-year-old female margay named beautiful, 50-pound, four-year-old ocelot, seven weeks, Maya measured 12-13 inch- Sheba. She has been declawed and Toleco, who goes fishing with his owners, es from nose to tail and weighed less than defanged and, to the disappointment of the loving the water and swimming well. two pounds. new owner, also spayed. Sheba is very Mr. & Mrs. Leonard DiGiovanni, 212- Mr. Felton Jarvis, 4016 Wallace La., vocal and is quite impressed with Miss 21 42nd Ave., Bayside, NY, are the proud Nashville, TN, advises that his five- Dodie Wilson, soon to become Mrs. owners of Shalimar, a baby ocelot import- month-old ocelot weighs ten pounds and David Adams. Sheba has had two previ- ed, according to the importers, from the is "doing great!” ous owners, but transfer has not hurt her rainforest of Brazil. Mr. & Mrs. Otis Keith, 7666 Le loving and gentle personality. (It was sus- Mike Dougherty, 86 Valley St., Daly Berthon, Tujunga, CA, have had misfor- pected at the Feb. 2 meeting of the No. City, CA, is a former ocelot owner who is tune with two bobcats which died. They CA branch of LIOC, that she might be a now interested in getting a jaguar as soon now are debating whether their next ven- chati.) as the opportunity presents itself. ture will be a pair of caracals or a female Mr. & Mrs. Vahan Aijian, 5344 Locust Lee DuBray, 3524 Carlyle Ave., Cleve- puma. St., Philadelphia, PA, also have a "Sheba." land, OH, is not sure whether her new cat Adr. V. Kleef, Leidseweg 50, Utrecht, This cat is a six-month-old, 15-pound (six pounds at five months old) is truly an Holland, owns two ocelots which he ocelot. Judy and Vahan brought Sheba to ocelot, although “Martyr” was sold to her hopes will breed; Pardel, a two year old the 1/15/64 meeting of LIOC in Brooklyn. as an ocelot from Brazil. Marty loves Lee female, and Moloch, male, one and a half Mr. & Mrs. Henri Batisse, 350 S. and Lee loves Marty, whatever her years. Wakefield St., Arlington, VA, recently lost species. Shane O'Neill, 1431 - 41 Ave., San two adult ocelots that died having been Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Duprey, 793 East Francisco, CA, has acquired ownership impounded in an Arlington animal shelter. St., Lennox, MA, have taken into their from Betty Harris of Milpitas, a full male Mrs. R. A. Bosse, 197 Conshohocken home and hearts little Zapata, a three and ocelot, Ginger. He tips the scales at about State Road, Bala-Cynwyd, PA, owns, with a half-pound, eight week old ocelot. Little 35 pounds. Although shipped from Peru, her son, a 25-pound ocelot, Maharajah. Zapata is thinking of inviting LIOC to pic- Ginger was born in Brazil. Drew Bosse, 197 Conshohocken State nic this coming fall in Lennox. Jack Meyer, 262 E 167 St., Bronx, NY, Road, Bala-Cynwyd, PA, helps keep Mr. & Mrs. Richard English, 3717 Los has a tiny female ocelot, Cheena. Maharajah (mentioned above) and the Feliz Blvd., Los Angeles, CA, own the Wesley A. Russell, 2850 Hillcrest Dr., many other animals in the Bosse home Felis chati called Chatty-Cat, whose story Los Angeles, CA, has a neutered 13- "zoo." Rajah's dearest animal friend is a appeared in the January '64 Newsletter, month-old male ocelot, which he bought woolly monkey, Bimbo, who grew up and Gabby, who is a cross between a bob- (of all places) at Sears Roebuck & Co., in with him. Their favorite mischief is to cat (Lynx rufus) and an “ordinary” cat Santa Monica. wait at the slot for the mailman to deliver (Felis cattus). Mr. & Mrs. Earl A. Sparrow, 1140 Via and then run off with the mail. A great Jerry Fogleman, 119 Beverly Pl., Enrica, San Lorenzo, CA, have not, as far dane, collie, new woolly, a six-foot boa, a Greensboro, NC, owns El Rey, a seven- as we know, yet named their baby ocelot. parrot, and doubtless many others at the month-old North American puma that time this newsletter goes to press, com- weighs about 60 pounds. 42 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 New Center for Cat Conservation in Arizona

By Fred Hood Arizona working on a doctoral disser- tation on mountain lion genetics. Everyone reading this magazine is well The crowd at the April 30th event aware of the fact that wild cat numbers in seemed very interested, and a few of the wild are declining. While a few them purchased either hanging prints species, such as the bobcat, are in good or photo notecards. Lisa’s talk includ- shape, the overall picture is somewhat ed a brief introduction to several bleak. I think we can all agree that any species of cat, primarily the lesser- effort to save these magnificent cats is known small cats. The two species worthwhile. Therefore, I am happy to that received audible “aahws” of ado- report on the formation of a new, interna- ration from the crowd were the cloud- tional cat conservation organization, the ed leopard and the Pallas’s cat. University of Arizona Wild Cat Research Another image that was well- Ashwin Naidu, of the Univesity of Ari- and Conservation Center. received featured Jim Sanderson zona spoke on the threats and conserva- This new center is headquartered in holding a sedated Andean cat in tion of tigers. Tucson, at the University of Arizona. The Chile. Most FCF members are famil- conservation group’s work in the area. center is the brainchild of Lisa Haynes, a iar with Jim Sanderson, founder of the The four groups are: Borderlands Jaguar former Arizona Game and Fish Depart- Small Wild Cat Conservation Federation. Detection Project, Northern Jaguar Pro- ment biologist. Since the UA sports A highlight of the April 30th event was ject, Sky Island Alliance (Cuatro Gatos moniker is The Wildcats, she figured this the announcement that Dr. Sanderson has Project), and Asociacion para la Conser- would be a perfect fit. The University of been secured as an official part-time facul- vacion del Jaguar de la Sierra de Sonora. Arizona is also a major research university ty member and advisor to the UA Wild In addition to mountain lions and bobcats, with several well-respected science Cat Center. all four collages featured jaguars, and departments, offering a range of resources. One facet of the center’s work is moni- three of the four featured ocelots. In fact, The center has been given office space to toring local cats and wildlife. The exhibi- the Sky Island Alliance collage featured operate on campus through the School of tion featured two sets of photos portraying the first ever photograph of a live ocelot in Natural Resources and the Environment. this. One section was called “Backyard Arizona, which was taken in 2010. (A It should be noted, however, that the cen- Bobcats” and showcased photos that local second ocelot, or perhaps the same one, ter is not a funded UA department. All of individuals had submitted of bobcats liter- has been seen again, in 2011.) their operating expenses come from grants ally in their backyards. I have a feeling This exhibition was a good start for and donations. that Tucson, Arizona, may be the best what looks like a great organization. That is where I came in. As a wild cat place in the country to see wild bobcats. I Their multitude of tasks will include train- photographer (www.FelidFoto.com), I was even saw one at close range myself while ing wildlife biology students from over- pleased to donate several images to the riding on a bike path near the Tucson seas here at the University of Arizona, center for use in their first fundraiser, a Mall! The other photo display on local providing trail cameras to cat projects photo exhibition. The wildlife showcased images worldwide, teaching local citizens in the well-received exhibition from remote trail cameras greater Tucson area how to live peaceably ran from early April set up in the Tucson Moun- with bobcats, mountain lions, and other through mid-May, 2011, at tains. These included a wildlife, gathering samples from wild cats a gallery in the Student mother mountain lion with for analysis at the UA genetics laboratory, Union. This was a way to two juvenile cubs. That collaborating with national and interna- officially introduce the photo was particularly tional cat conservation organizations, and center to the public. After exciting for Lisa, because much more. As I mentioned, they receive two small mini-openings there has been a fear that no regular funding from the university earlier in April, a large the mountain range had (other than donated office space). If you official opening was held become too isolated by would like to help this fledgling organiza- on April 30th. This was urban sprawl and no longer tion, donations of any amount will certain- accompanied by a Power- contained a breeding popu- ly be put to good use. You can make a Point lecture from Lisa lation. check payable to the University of Ari- Haynes and Ashwin Naidu. Visitors take in the photo Another part of the exhi- zona Foundation and in the memo line Lisa gave a brief introduc- exhibition, including the bition included some excit- write “Wild Cat Center.” Please mail tion to the center, while24x36 collage of small ing remote sensor camera donations to: UA Wild Cat Center, Bio- Ashwin gave a talk on the cat species donated by images. These were from Sciences East 325, University of Arizona, Hyderabad Tiger Conserva- photographer Fredthe border area, both on the Tucson, Arizona 85721. For more infor- tion Society, a group heHood. See a full color Arizona side and the Sonora mation on the Wild Cat Center, visit their helped form in his native version of this work(Mexico) side. There were website, www.uawildcatresearch.org. India. Ashwin is a graduate poster on the Journalfour large collage prints, student at the University of inside back cover. each representing a different

43 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 Notes on the 2011 AZA Felid T.A.G.

By Patrick Callahan per Dr. O., which could be 2009 revived by back-breeding. • “The Evolution of Cats” by Stephan I was again asked and was pleased to More talks by Dr. O. and Dave Wilt O’Brien and Warren Johnson, Scientific represent the members of the FCF at the covered topics like speciation of cats, evo- American July 2007 mid-year meeting of the AZA Felid Taxon lution, and even domestication of cats. • “What is a Tiger? Genetics and Phy- Advisory Group, in Omaha, Nebraska. Briefly, house cats arose, no surprise, logeography” by Shu-Jin Luo et al, Tigers This meeting is open to any interested par- from the wild Felis silvestris group. of the World Second Edition, Ed. by Ron ties and combines zoo people, the private However, it did not happen in Egypt as Tilson, Noyes Series, 2010 (this book is sector, researchers, and government repre- formerly thought, but in even older times, expensive but may be available used) and sentatives such as U.S. Fish and Wildlife in the fertile crescent area of Luo et al in Current Biology (date Service and USDA folks. Our own Jim Mesopotamia, today's Iraq! There was unknown but recent) Sanderson was there, as well as Mike Car- some talk that “of all the domesticated Try your search engines, AOL, Google, penter from the U.S. F&WS Permit animals, the cat provided no benefit to etc., on any of these authors; you will get Office. Various talks and formal papers Man.” Well now! Radiation (spreading) good cat-related scientific to highly scien- were presented, and opportunities abound- of modern cats began when the tific articles. Check out the Felid TAG ed to "button hole" people or later social- lineage gave rise to the clouded leopard website at www.felidtag.org. Proceedings ize with them and “network.” and the full Panthera (roaring cats) . of this year’s annual meeting will be My job for the FCF was to report on See “The Late Miocene Radiation of available online. Think about attending our grantees’ projects, the FCF’s conser- Modern ” by Warren Johnson et al, the TAG in April 2012, in Salt Lake City. vation grants, and the Rare Species Fund in Science vol.311 6 Jan 06. There is a husbandry course, but the FCF support. In this way, your support of Lastly, let me mention the Florida pan- one is equal or better, except that AZA has important conservation projects gets ther. As you know, the USFWS has a great vet section, taught by our own noticed!! And it does get noticed, believe recently declared the eastern panther Kristi Krause, DVM, and the excellent vet me! As I did last year, I passed out back extinct. The Florida subspecies was given pathologist, Dr. Karen Terio, whom I issues of our Journal and this year also a genetic boost in 1995, when eight pester for articles for the Journal and tell passed out, to selected attendees, the DVD female Texas cougars, Puma concolor that private animals are available for data An InCATvenient Truth. Thanks to Lynn stanleyana, were introduced to the wild to collection. Culver for getting that stuff shipped to my reverse indications of depleted genetic Finally, some AZA related news. You hotel. diversity such as poor sperm quality, may recall that last year Mike Carpenter Of note, a talk by the genetics GURU, crooked tails, etc. It really helped! The challenged the AZA to open up to the pri- Dr. Stephan J. O’Brien, indicated that his population expanded by three times, while vate sector. “You (AZA) can not do it testing of captive tigers of unproven (aka diversity and heterozygosity doubled! alone!” he said. Well, this year, Jack generic) origin, including many in private However, there are so many obstacles to Grisham, Cheetah SSP coordinator, talked hands, held a stunning surprise. Namely, the Florida cats’ survival that prognosis about a “pay to play” cheetah breeding no pun intended, many of those tigers remains poor. See “Genetic Restoration program based on the San Diego Zoo, St. “fell out” (named) as true Siberian/Amur of the Florida Panther,” Warren Johnson et Louis Zoo, White Oak Plantation in Flori- tigers. Dr. O. told me later that some were al, in Science vol. 329 24 Sept. 10. da, Fossil Rim in Texas, and others pend- in better genetic shape than some of the Other articles Dr. O. suggested are: ing. It is called S2C2, and its selling point tigers still roaming the Russian wilder- • “The Near Eastern Origin of Cat is that these places all have rather vast ness, as they had better genetic diversity! Domestification” by Carlos A. Driscoll et areas to devote to cheetah breeding (hoof- He also said that people are going to have al, in Science 317 519 2007 stock, too). He explained that it costs to “stop throwing s**t” on those “generic” • “The Taming of the Cat” by Carlos almost $9,000 to “produce” a cheetah in a cats, since they may be good news for A. Driscoll et al, Scientific American June zoo, and people are willing to import them captive breeding programs - for much more than that. So, by ically. He felt that the joining a consortium-like group, owners/breeders of these cats had cheetah would be available for obviously selected for those less money and members would (Siberian tiger) traits. Others get priority on genetics and may have started with say, Ben- females, etc. Another big chee- gal types, and bred for those tah breeder, Cincinnati Zoo, has traits. This testing is ongoing - I so far declined to join. I do think recall he had done about 145 cats the idea has some merit. Name- dating back to 2008. See “Cur- ly, several of these very success- rent Biology 2008” via AOL ful cheetah breeding facilities Search. A paper is currently have chronic money problems, under review on similar findings and this would help stabilize and also relates to the “extinct” them, a good conservation goal

44 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 in my opinion. Jim Sanderson and I asked Jack if the private sector was eligible for this group, he stammered a “YES,” and Registered Exotic Feline Handler Program events are still unfolding on this... The FCF board of directors congratulates the following individuals for A quick note on AZA openness Part 2 is being accepted into the Registered Exotic Feline Handler Program since that, under the new SSP guidelines, there the past Journal issue. are now three levels, GREEN and YEL- Emily Dice – Basic Sally Haase – Basic LOW SSPs, and RED Studbook Pro- Heather Hatton – Basic Michelle McKay – Basic grams. The yellow SSP replaces the old Mercedes Munser – Basic William Munser – Basic PMP (population management plans), so Debra Kaprive – Intermediate Bill Robbins – Intermediate that now former PMP species caracal, Gerhea Robbins – Intermediate Randy Stearns – Intermediate Canada lynx, and serval, are managed Darlene Williamson – Intermediate Teresa Adebahr – Advanced under a Yellow SSP and are open to non- Jarrod Davis – Advanced Felicia Frisco – Advanced AZA accredited facility participation to Christine Janks – Advanced Lea Jaunakais – Advanced enhance genetics and holding spaces. Loretta Jones – Advanced Tonya Lowe – Advanced Only one of the felid “old” SSPs qualifies as the Green, or highest, level, and that The three levels of FCF Feline Handler registration are: basic – at least one year of species is the African lion. Green level experience, intermediate – at least five years of experience, and advanced – more SSP means AZA accreditation is required than ten years’ experience handling exotic felines. to participate. I congratulate SSP person Be sure to update your registration in the members-only website when you obtain Hollie Colahan of Houston Zoo on this. additional handling experience or new species experience. If you believe your experi- The lions managed by this SSP are numer- ences qualify you for an upgrade in registration status, make a request with your ous enough and genetically strong enough updates and the secretary will process the registration. to get this rating and are on course to have The online registration form can be filled out directly in the members-only section 90% genetic diversity 100 years from of the FCF website and the $30.00 registration fee can be made through PayPal. now. The board further challenges all FCF facilities to apply for accreditation by the Sadly, I report that it is a sign of not FCF Accreditation Board. The overview, basic standards, and accreditation applica- enough cats or AZA zoo interest that caus- tion are on the FCF members-only website. es the lack of any other Green SSPs. The Congratulations to all of these members for their dedication to their cats. other cat species are Yellow level, or, if George DeLong, FCF Secretary there are less than 50 individuals, the dreaded Red Studbook Program levels. all are held in low numbers by the AZA to represent you at the Felid TAG. Maybe Here is where the private sector, using zoos. Being FCF accredited is a major I will see you there next year? proper husbandry and record keeping step toward this. We will see what the Opinions expressed are my own and practices, of course, stands ready to help. year brings, eh? may not always jibe with FCF policy. Especially with small cat species, which Again, fellow FCF members, I was glad 2011 FCF Convention Board Meeting Minutes By Lynn Culver $120,389. First quarter income was • Applicant must mail 5 copies of their $21,801.48, and first quarter expenses application, photos, and dvds to all 5 The FCF Board of Directors met at the were $15,577.69. members of the accreditation committee Sheraton Safari Hotel in Orlando, Florida, Robert Johnson presented several rec- directly, mail accreditation processing fee at 9:00 AM, June 9, 2011. Present were ommendations made by the Accreditation payment to the FCF treasurer, and mail the FCF directors President Kevin Chambers, Committee for changes to the FCF Facili- original copies of the entire accreditation Vice President Patty Perry, Treasurer Mar- ty Accreditation Policy and discussion fol- package to the FCF secretary. ilin Antle, Legislation Director Robert lowed. Changes included: • Facility accreditation does not cover Johnson, Director Teresa Shaffer, and • Facilities may not become accredited any traveling exhibits. That requires a Executive Director Lynn Culver. Absent while under investigation by state, federal separate accreditation application and board members were Secretary George agencies. approval. DeLong and Conservation Director Pat • Accreditation renewals require writ- • Accreditation can be suspended or Callahan. Members of the FCF were also ten details in changes in protocol, facili- revoked by the accreditation committee present in the audience. ties, and programs. when under investigation or litigation by Minutes from the May 15-30 meeting • The accreditation process time is state or federal agencies. held on the FCF Forums were read and extended to a maximum of 6 months, after Under the Application Procedure, add: approved. requesting and receiving all required • Might have to have initial inspection. Treasurer’s report showed FCF finances materials. • Facility accreditation does not extend are about the same as last year. Marilin • An annual visual inspection may be to any travel or activities conducted off Antle gave an expense projection for 2011 required by a 2/3 vote in favor by the 5- the accredited facility. of $60,000. Current FCF assets are member accreditation committee. • Traveling exhibits must be accredited

45 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 55, Issue 4 • July/August 2011 separately. Applicants for accreditation of ly be involved in the review process, and Lynn will follow up with this event. Lynn traveling exhibits must also hold current she indicated that she is trying to be rea- noted that Ohio is being targeted for new FCF facility accreditation. A separate sonable. Lynn has also been following restrictions on legislation needs and an application and inspection is required for inspection reports on the USDA website Educator Course scheduled in the fall. traveling exhibit accreditation. and reported that mixed enforcement is Lynn will discuss with Pat Callahan the • Bi-annual renewal fee is the same as still ongoing. possibility of the Cincinnati Zoo class- the facility accreditation rate. FCF Treasurer Marilin Antle reported rooms as a possible location for the course Robert Johnson moved that the accredita- she has located a local accountant, David and will follow up with event planning. tion policy changes proposed be Lewis, in Conway, SC. Mr. Lewis will be An updated Mission Statement pro- approved. Teresa Shaffer seconded. contracted to do FCF transaction posting posed by George was discussed. No Motion passed 5/0. in QuickBooks online. Cost for this ser- action was taken. Robert Johnson moved that accredita- vice is donated and will not impact FCF The current supply of FCF brochures is tion processing fees be raised to $100 for funds. gone. The board discussed and approved facilities with up to 10 cats, and $200 for Election policy changes proposed for ordering 5,000 more FCF brochures. facilities with more than 10 cats. Teresa counting of incomplete ballots was tabled Lynn Culver will conduct a review of the Shaffer seconded. Motion passed 5/0. for future discussion. current brochure text prior to ordering, Teresa Shaffer moved that Lynn Culver Future Husbandry course locations and, if necessary, any changes proposed be chair of Marketing and Public Rela- were discussed. Jeremy Hinkle said his would be made by Robert Johnson, who tions Committee. Robert Johnson second- park, Wild Animal Safari, in Springfield, can also lay out a new brochure if changes ed. Motion passed, 4 approved, 1 abstain. Missouri, would host a Husbandry Course are extensive. Lynn Culver reported that the U.S. in October. Lynn Culver proposed a Robert moved to allocate $3,000 from feline census is moving forward. USDA Massachusetts Educator course in Sep- the annual FCF budget to the Conserva- inventories have been entered into THE tember or October, in conjunction with the tion Grants Fund. Teresa seconded. database. Discussion of creation of feline King Richard’s Renaissance Faire. This Motion passed; 4 yes, 1 abstain. studbooks followed, and Mindy Stinner, would be a three-day event and include Pat Callahan submitted a written from the audience, informed the board demonstrations of big cat handling and request for reimbursement for travel and that Frank Pyne has written a program that conditioning and proper preparations for lodging at the Felid TAG to give an FCF serves as a registry or studbook that is public presentations by Doc Antle, as well presentation and be the FCF representa- currently being used at Conservators Cen- as the Educator Course, and include a day tive. Marilin moved that Pat be reim- ter, Inc., for tracking and pedigrees of bin- at the faire with live animal performances. bursed $500 in expenses, after receipt of turongs and New Guinea receipts and submission of daz- singing dogs. Mindy offered zling report for publication in this software program to the the FCF Journal. Robert John- FCF for utilizing into a feline son seconded motion. Motion studbook and offered Kim and passed 5/0. Frank Pyne's services. Erin Patters, who was conven- Lynn Culver reported that tion chair this year, has moved the USDA inspections of tiger to Germany. Erin will continue containment fencing are still on the convention committee. ongoing and inconsistent. Possible convention loca- The Eastern sector has cited tions for 2011 were Out of non-compliance to section Africa, Arizona, and 3.125 to some facilities with ͞FRESH + OASIS is the 'Missing Link' to a Healthy T.I.G.E.R.S. Preserve, Myrtle fencing, and written reports are Beach, South Carolina, some- asking for 12 feet in height and Complete Diet & Optimal Performance͟ where in Texas, the Chicago either a three-foot or four-foot Zoo in Illinois, and the Cincin- kick-in, or 15 foot tall fences Add Oasis premix to fresh meat & the result is a scientifically nati Zoo in Ohio. Cincinnati without a kick-in. Lynn balanced and complete real food diet ʹ no guess work. Oasis is Zoo has replaced its original reported receiving reports from professionally formulated by Dr. Gary Pusillo, and for over 20 small cats house with new con- licensees, and she has spoken years, has been the #1 selling vitamin & mineral premix for exotic struction , has a new, large to USDA big cat representative cats, trusted by the world's top breeders, private zoos and puma habitat, and has greatly Laurie Gage twice on this sanctuaries. Now Oasis is available under the Complete Natural expanded the cheetah run. issue. Laurie indicates that the Marilin Antle moved that the Nutrition brand along with other exceptional nutritional tools like anticipated meeting she had 2012 convention be held in told Lynn about between the Primal Cal, Rapid Rehab & Crisis Care. Cincinnati. Patty Perry second- Eastern and Western sector ed. Motion passed 5/0. heads and herself never tran- www.CompleteNaturalNutrition.com / 866-807-7335 Meeting adjourned at 11:30 spired. Laurie still recom- AM. mends for facilities cited to file appeals and she will most like-

46 20

32 13 17 43 Cover Photo: Peering out at the world is the world's first ever guiña born in cap- tivity. The tiny feline, native to Chile, was born at Fauna-Andina, an endangered species breeding and education center. Facility founder and photographer, Fer- nando Vidal, says the kitten is being mother raised and cohabitates peacefully with the father cat, too.

A cherished tradition of every FCF convention is the opportunity to interact with Feline Conservation Federation exotic kittens. Early socialization helps build confidence in young felines, and pictured here is Phyllis Parks holding an 8-week-old bobcat kitten brought to July/August 2011 • Volume 56, Issue 4 Orlando by Lynn Culver. Photo by Tim Stoffel.