The WAZA Decade Project | P 2 Sexual Coral Reproduction | P 7 WAZA Annual Report 2012 | Insert – the Lost Chambers

May 2/13 2013

The WAZA Decade Project | p 2 Sexual Coral Reproduction | p 7 WAZA Annual Report 2012 | insert – The Lost Chambers. | © Pio De Rose The Lost The Palm – Atlantis WAZA news 2/13

Gerald Dick Contents Editorial Dear WAZA members and friends! WAZA Biodiversity Decade Project...... 2 This edition of WAZA News is a very Aquaria, the Blue Glass special one. With the support of WAZA’s Landscape...... 3 aquarium committee chair and past International Aquarium president, Dr Mark Penning and Paul Congress...... 4 Boyle of AZA, we have designed a focus Review of Japanese on aquariums and water related issues. Aquariums...... 5 As the interest was overwhelmingly Sexual Coral Reproduction great some of the submitted articles & Reef Conservation...... 7 have to be postponed for publishing Unity, Strength & Synergy...... 9 in a later edition of the WAZA News. WAZA Interview: Nicely coinciding with this focus are Dennis Ethier...... 12 some decisions which were taken at this Impact year’s CITES CoP16 and are related to of Superstorm Sandy...... 14 listings of shark species. My Career: David Kimmel...... 17 With this edition of WAZA News we are Whale Sharks...... 19 also starting a series about the WAZA Book Reviews...... 22 Decade project, which has taken off the Announcements...... 23 ground enormously well. Throughout Tarpons, Ladyfishes the year you will be informed about the & Bonefishes...... 24 developments until the planned launch Highlights during the WAZA marketing conference of CITES CoP 16...... 25 in May 2014. © WAZA CITES in Action: UWEC...... 27 Included here is also a generous offer for Gerald Dick and whale shark at aqua planet, Jeju. Update: our members by the Journal of Zoo and International Studbooks...... 27 Wildlife Medicine: free online access to strategy workshop – the first milestone WAZA projects the Journal, please see the details about for getting clarity on basics on a global Sumatra Tiger Trust...... 28 how to get access! scale. As always we were also happy to Bristol Community Also included in this edition is the WAZA welcome the CBSG Strategic Commit- Plant Collection...... 29 Annual Report 2012, summarizing tee in Gland. Humboldt Penguins...... 30 the major issues of last year, activities, With a warm welcome to our new Lesser White-fronted Goose...... 31 successes and the financial situation. members and a big thank you to the New Member Applications...... 34 When editing this edition of the WAZA executive office staff team for the excel- News, the executive office was busy in lent work. preparing the midyear meetings, including not only the Council meeting here Gerald Dick in Gland, but also the animal welfare WAZA Executive Director

Imprint Edition: 550 copies © WAZA 2013 Editor: Gerald Dick, WAZA Executive Office IUCN Conservation Centre This edition of WAZA News Rue Mauverney 28 is also available on CH-1196 Gland www.waza.org (members’ area). Switzerland phone: +41 22 999 07 90 Founding Member fax: +41 22 999 07 91 Printed on FSC paper.

Layout and typesetting: [email protected] Print: Agentura NP, Staré Město, Czech Republic

ISSN: 1662-7733 WAZA news 2/13 1

Jörg Junhold The President’s Page

Next to the new Global Strategy for Animal Welfare that we start to develop this year we also want to have a deeper look into the World Zoo and Aquarium Conservation Strategy (WZACS). Ten years after the last re- vision we will have a workshop held at Houston Zoo, Texas in May to define the potential for an update. Of course during the last decade new issues came up which are not yet included in the WZACS. Here, I am thinking about global challenges, such as climate change which will influence our work and further the sustainability of our animal populations.

© WAZA One of my next travels will bring me Jörg Junhold at clouded leopard breeding center, Kao Keow Zoo, Thailand. to the 24th Conference and Annual General Meeting of the African Asso- ciation of Zoos and Aquaria (PAAZ- Although we experience a hard and The 16th CITES Conference of the Par- AB) kindly hosted by the Two Oceans longlasting winter in Germany and ties took place in Bangkok in March Aquarium in Cape Town, South other parts of Europe I like to wish all and WAZA was well represented by Africa. I am glad to visit our African our members in the Northern hemi- Dr Gerald Dick, Kris Vehrs from AZA colleagues again and meet the new sphere a successful and thrilling start and myself. In general the conference Executive Director of PAAZAB, Dr into the new season! saw some important developments Stephen van der Spuy. As mentioned to add threatened species to the list before my own Zoo Leipzig has long The first months of the new year of protected species, for example lasting relations to Addis Ababa Lion were already filled with meetings and five shark species and manta rays. Zoo in Ethiopia and this is why I am conferences. Concerning the requirements that personally interested in seeing and zoos have to follow during animal discussing the progress that is hap- In February Dr. Gerald Dick and I used transports the „CITES Guidelines for pening on the African continent. Dr the chance to meet the new elected the Non-Air Transport of Live Wild van der Spuy is especially pushing IUCN President, Mr Zhang Xinsheng Animals and Plants” were adopted the critical role that PAAZAB plays in from China during his visit at the after four years of preparation. Al- guiding and assisting member zoos IUCN Headquarters in Gland. He is though, zoos as institutions are every to improve animal care standards as coming from an NGO background day touched by CITES regulations well as guiding them to embrace the and has a broad network of contacts they will only play a small role in the WZACS strategy. I strongly like to for his work. During the intensive dis- overall bureaucratic system behind support this issue as it is so crucial for cussions with him we tried to find out that. But we still need to lobby for the our public appearance and I believe how to better integrate WAZA’s work improvement of regulations for our that the upcoming conference will be and goals into the international con- animal exchanges. It is sometimes a step towards reaching this goal. servation community. Another topic hard to understand that one player was how WAZA can convince more for conservation is impacting a sec- Chinese zoos to raise their standards ond one in this way and this is why and to become members. I hope that we need to speak up strongly for our I may have the chance to visit China needs. For sure, we should not step this year to support this issue. The back but even increase our WAZA meeting with Mr. Xinsheng took place presence at CITES Conferences – it is in a very open and friendly atmos- worth the effort! phere and we are looking forward to a fruitful future cooperation with him. 2 WAZA news 2/13

Tiago Pinto-Pereira – WAZA Executive Office WAZA Biodiversity Decade Project

During its 66th Annual conference Therefore, together with a selection versity and its threats by conveying WAZA members unanimously of more than 30 zoos and aquariums stimulating and positive messages endorsed the UN Decade on Biodiver- in six different regions of the world about the importance of individual sity and supported both the Aichi Bio- the project was further developed. contributions towards biodiversity diversity targets and a WAZA global These project team members were conservation, and how to act on an project supporting both the Decade selected to represent the WAZA everyday basis to contribute to biodi- and the Aichi targets. Besides the membership in all its diversity to versity conservation through a reduc- species conservation target 12, the ensure the output of the project tion in individual footprint. The aim Aichi target most relevant to the work meets the needs and is adapted is to contribute significantly to Aichi of WAZA and its members is target 1 to the requirements of the WAZA target 1. which states: “By 2020, at the latest, membership in its entirety. A modu- people are aware of the values of bio- lar set of awareness raising tools are Currently the project is advancing diversity and the steps they can take being developed as a recognisable nicely and on schedule. Indeed the to conserve and use it sustainably.” framework, but adaptable to regional, visuals, in their English format, have After a workshop, convened together cultural and individual institutional been approved by the members of with CBSG and a survey amongst situations. These tools will then be the project team as well as the ac- IZE members, the project was finally made available to the whole WAZA companying text and basic formats designed and subsequently external membership. to be adapted to local requirements funding secured. and specificities. In addition the script These tools are part of a consistent for the longest of the videos was also WAZA, in support of its members, and logical ensemble and will include approved with certain comments with their experience in awareness films of different lengths, a mobile provided which have been incorpo- raising and interaction with the public, phone / tablet application, a social rated. The director for the movie will are well positioned to help educate media campaign and visuals. The cen- be scoping the sites for the filming and involve the public about the need tral objective of the project is to make and present the result of his research to protect biodiversity during the sure the public understands biodi- before we give the go ahead to film. Decade on Biodiversity. The target is to finally reach out to as many of our 700 million zoo/aquarium visitors worldwide as possible. The numerous conservation projects of the WAZA community are convincing argu- ments and the animals displayed in the WAZA members’ facilities are great ambassadors to increase public awareness and trigger action.

Pio de Rose, photographer – Genoa, Italy Aquaria, The Blue Glass Landscape

Furthermore, we have also ad- vanced on a number of different tools which will be shared with project team members in due course. Namely, we have started work on the social media strategy and the basic design for the mobile phone / tablet application (for both iPhones and Android operat- ing systems).

In parallel, in collaboration with Chester Zoo and The University of Warwick, WAZA is coordinating a survey of biodiversity literacy. This will be the first large scale global evaluation the role of zoos and aquariums as education centres relating to biodiversity. This is being carried out through © Pio de Rose pre and post visit surveys before Oceanogràfic, Valencia, Spain (2012/2013) and after (2014/2015) the implementation of the tools. The act of looking has always char- Blue Glass Landscape. In this extraor- We will be updating the whole acterized the relationship between dinary dimension our senses adapt WAZA membership on the evolu- people and animals. However, recent to the lack of recognisable space and tion of the Project in every edition studies have focused on the unique- time coordinates, so that our only of the WAZA News. Look out for ness of the environment where this means of interaction and perception our updates! mutual act of looking takes place and become the observing while being how they enhance evocative re- absorbed by the blue surreal environ- For any further questions, please sponses. I visited some of the world’s ments accommodating our presence. contact Tiago Pinto-Pereira the biggest aquariums to photograph Likewise, such a shifted perception WAZA Decade Project Manager the traces of their surreal settings. generates isolated and transparent ([email protected]). Suddenly, a whole new intuition memories devoid of and in contrast began to dominate the feeling I had with the chaos and paraphernalia about these places. They were not characterising aquariums as tourist perceived as distinct aquariums any attractions, in an attempt to retain longer. Instead, they all turned into the contemplative and emotional entrances to a sort of world-within- essence of the visit, which is turned the-world, a parallel universe now into fragmented visions of a lucid becoming accessible through these dream. several different gates: Aquaria, The

…they all turned into entrances to a sort of world-within-the-world, a parallel universe… To find out more: www.pioderose.com 4 WAZA news 2/13

Judy Mann – uShaka Seaworld International Aquarium Congress Advertisement

During September 2012, the Inter- now more than ever in the past – it is national Aquarium Congress (IAC) obvious that ‘free from the sea’ is an was held in Cape Town. This was the outdated concept and that aquari- first IAC to be hosted in South Africa ums will need to look increasingly The diet and it was attended by more than at improved animal care, captive management 300 professionals in the field from breeding and more sustainable col- software around the world. From ideas for lection methods. Helping visitors to for healthy improved visitor interpretation, to care for our oceans emerged as the animals thoughts on how to generate more primary reason for the existence of Fauna has been specifically developed revenue, suggestions on sustain- many aquariums and this issue was for zoos and aquariums in response to a ability in aquariums to challenges highlighted throughout the con- direct request from the zoo community. facing collections – the 8th Interna- gress. How to improve our ability to Your feedback has shaped and will continue to shape Fauna’s evolution. tional Aquarium Congress covered inspire people to care for the oceans, It’s your software. a wide range of topics pertinent to through better visitor research, Based on totally up to date technology, aquariums throughout the world. As requires a great deal more attention, Fauna provides a modern, efficient and this was the first IAC hosted in Africa as this aspect of our work is almost intuitive way to manage animal diets and a powerful business tool that can be used it was interesting to note the range as important as our ability to care for to boost the effectiveness of budgets, of countries represented – amongst our animals. record keeping and communication. Qualified zoo nutritionists will also have other countries were China and Japan, access to a tailor made optimisation Australia, Eastern and Western Eu- Having attended two previous Inter- function to deliver additional benefits to rope, United Kingdom and the USA, national Aquarium Congresses, this animals and zoos. as well as a good number of South one impressed me with the depth of Fauna is currently African delegates. Probably the most issues tackled. The aquarium industry undergoing testing striking aspect of the congress was is grappling with water quality issues and was showcased at the WAZA 2012 the open sharing which took place. and animal husbandry challenges, conference in The discussions were lively and exhibit designs and problems with Melbourne. sometimes heated, but always held in legislation; however, it is also looking an inclusive manner that encouraged at sustainability and relevance, better www.formatfauna.com participation. internal governance and improved Brought to you by education and visitor inspiration. The world leader in feed formulation software. A few interesting issues emerged – The bottom line will always remain aquariums are a thriving business, critical – but the aquarium industry is new aquariums are opening each looking beyond money and is tacking year, old aquariums are being bought the challenges facing our planet with out by commercial enterprises and enthusiasm and commitment. are being renovated and this trend appears to show no sign of slowing Overall the conference was a great down. Aquariums are, however, start- success – not only was it a fantastic ing to think more carefully about their opportunity to showcase African exhibits and are definitely looking aquariums to the world, it was also at better exhibits rather than bigger a great opportunity for South African exhibits. Sustainability, the theme of delegates to meet the role players the conference, is another emerging in the international aquarium world. trend in aquariums, although given Our thanks go to the Two Oceans the inherent environmental footprint Aquarium, for their excellent hosting of an aquarium; aquariums still have of the event. See you all in Vancouver a long way to go before they can in 2016!!! be considered to be carbon neutral. Aquarium professionals are thinking about their collection sustainability WAZA news 2/13 5

Yoshitaka Abe – Aquamarine Fukushima Brief Review of Japanese » Aquariums

It is great honor for me as a member of WAZA, to have such an opportunity to be able to take up topics of Japa- nese aquariums. First of all, I have to express my sincere appreciation to WAZA colleagues for their concern about the disasters caused by the big earthquake and Tsunami on March 11, 2011, and following explosion of the atomic power plant. Aquarium Fuku- shima is still under repair, and we are trying to create a better aquarium than before.

Aquamarine Fukushima (here after AMF) opened to public in 2000, is the four story “Greenhouse Aquarium”, located at the 2nd warf of Ona- hama port, Iwaki City, Fukushima prefecture and is managed by the Fukushima prefectural government. We are aiming to expand from the greenhouse building to the outdoor space and establish a large tidal pool © AMF of 4600 m2. This is on the way toward Prism tunnel separates Kuroshio warm current tank of 1500 tons and the “Green Aquarium“, the aquarium Oyashio cold current tank of 500 tons. of the next generation.

The Japanese Archipelago consists In the 1900’s, small aquaria with Of the 67 aquariums, roughly half of 6 852 islands and reaches from open-circulation systems were are managed by private companies, the subarctic zone to the subtropical annexed to the laboratory of the Na- and the remainder being prefectural zone. It has a long beautiful shoreline tional University’s Faculty of Marine or municipal, or run by a non-profit of 33,889 km, surrounded by good Biology and Fisheries on the scenic organization. 38 aquariums are keep- fishing waters. Japan is traditionally coast of Japan. These became the ing 274 bottlenose dolphins (as of an ocean-oriented nation, and de- foothold of the local aquarium com- 2011) and other species of whales for veloped fishing grounds around the munity, which prospered after the popular performances. The aquari- planet. Whaling is one of the activi- war in 1945. ums are an important tourist attrac- ties reflecting the seafood culture. tion in Japan. JAZA, the Japanese Association of The first aquarium in Japan opened Zoos and Aquariums, at present is The annual attendance for 88 zoos to public was the small aquarium representative of 88 zoos and 67 is 38 million, and for 67 aquariums is room named as “Uonozoki, Peep- aquariums, in total 155 members. 29 million, totaling 67 million visitors ing Fish Windows”, developed at the in 2010. Ueno Zoological Gardens when they opened in 1882 as the first zoo in Japan. 6 WAZA news 2/13

The high prevalence of aquariums in private homes in this small country is a reflection of how Japanese people enjoy the natural environment and also enjoy seafood.

Japanese aquariums are institutions with the power to attract and influence people, and should not be confined to merely providing amusement. It is desirable to function more © AMF as an institution for environmental Successful keeping of 3 juvenile Sail fish Istiophorus platypterus of 40 cm, during Sept.14 education, and for in-situ and ex-situ through Nov. 27, one of them grew up to 1 m. conservation activities relating to endangered animals.

All aquariums should send more common messages to the audiences, not emotional but scientifically correct, on the sustainability of the oceans. For example, the Seafood Watch campaign developed by the Monte- rey Bay Aquarium, sister aquarium of AMF, and the Ocean Wise message developed by the Vancouver Aquarium will be very effective © AMF activities to link fisheries and con- AMF succeeded in keeping deep sea fish, Green eye, sumers. AMF has just started to send Chrolophthamus albatorosis. a sustainability message through the aquarium restaurant under the title of “Happy Oceans network”, promoting a sustainable sushi culture. If these activities complement each other in the regional aquarium community, it could be developed toward a global campaign for sustainable oceans. Such activities by aquariums will also contribute to raising the social status of aquariums.

…All aquariums should send more common messages to the audiences, not emotional but scientifically correct, on the sustainability of the oceans… WAZA news 2/13 7

Dirk Petersen – SECORE Foundation & Mike Brittsan – Columbus Zoo & Aquarium Zoos and Aquaria Expand Their » Efforts for Coral Reef Conservation Through the SECORE Foundation

Since more than 10 years, zoos and public aquaria work together with scientists in the SECORE network to help saving the coral reef – one of the most diverse and yet most fragile ecosystem on Earth. After setting up a pilot restoration research project in Curacao, SECORE is now expanding its efforts towards other regions of the Atlantic and the Pacific Ocean.

In 2002, SECORE (SExual COral RE- production) was initiated through the innovative coral breeding research of Dr. Dirk Petersen at the Rotterdam Zoo. Two years later, Mike Brittsan of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium © Paul A. Selvaggio joined to establish and to coordinate Freshly outplanted Elkhorn coral using SECORE in the USA. In 2012, SECORE epoxy cement. has become a non-profit foundation Pilot coral conservation located in Germany. The Columbus project in Curacao Zoo and Aquarium represents the SECORE Foundation in the USA. The In 2010, SECORE launched a resto- of the Curacao Sea Aquarium which goal of the foundation is to launch ration research project in Curacao are used to culture coral larvae and and support coral conservation initia- addressing endangered reefbuilding settle them on specifically designed tives in close collaboration with local coral species such as the Elkhorn substrate tiles. The juveniles are then stakeholders at different locations coral Acropora palmata. Within the outplanted to local reefs to support around the world. Key components past decades, the Elkhorn coral has natural recruitment. Within the past are conservation-related research, undergone a rapid decline resulting in three years we have developed the education of local and international a population loss of more than 90% basic techniques and successfully stakeholders, public outreach with throughout the Caribbean. Although introduced the first sexual recruits a national and international focus, some populations still spawn regu- into the reef. The next step will be to socio-economical aspects, and active larly, no significant recruitment of ju- establish a protocol for an application reef restoration. Zoos and aquariums veniles has been observed since many on a larger scale. play an important role to contribute years. SECORE and partners work with their knowledge in coral breed- on developing effective methods to Besides the restoration research, ing and husbandry, to establish ex apply sexual reproduction in the res- SECORE uses project Curacao to raise situ populations of endangered corals toration of critical coral species. The public awareness of the local com- and to spread the conservation mes- project is carried out in partnership munity and to train zoo and aquarium sage to their visitors. with the CARMABI Foundation (Cu- affiliates, and scientists in coral racao), the University of Amsterdam breeding and restoration techniques (Netherlands) and the Curacao Sea during annual field workshops. Since Aquarium, as well as with internation- this workshop program has been al zoo and aquarium partners such started at the Rotterdam Zoo in 2005, as the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, affiliates of 47 institutions have been the Henry Doorly Zoo, the Shedd trained in 12 laboratory and field Aquarium, and the Pittsburgh Zoo & workshops (Rotterdam, Puerto Rico, PPG Aquarium. Land based aquarium Curacao, Omaha, Singapore). facilities have been built in the center 8 WAZA news 2/13

Expanding towards more Supporting SECORE’s geographic regions conservation program

From 2013, following the positive start a multi-year project to establish Our pilot project in Curacao has been example of Curacao, SECORE will ex- restoration techniques for locally financially supported since its begin- pand its program with three addition- threatened species. Once SECORE ning in 2010 by the National Oceanic al project locations. In the Philippines, has established the techniques for and Atmospheric Administration SECORE starts a restoration research large scale restoration in Curacao and (NOAA), the Green Foundation, and project in collaboration with Dr. Ron- the Philippines, we plan to integrate the Clyde and Connie Woodburn ald Villanueva (Bolinao Marine Sci- these new methods in existing pro- Foundation, the Conservation Fund ence Institute of the University of the grams in Guam and Mexico. of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Philippines), Dr. James Guest (Uni- and by one-time support through the versity of New South Wales, Australia As kick-off for project Mexico, Montei Foundation, the Seaworld / Nanyang Technological University, SECORE will host a workshop this Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, Singapore), and Prof. Dr. Udo Pe- year especially to address science the Conservation Fund of the Europe- tersen (University of Applied Sciences and nature management organiza- an Union of Aquarium Curators, AZA’s Kempten, Germany). Bart Shepherd tions in Yucatan. The project team Conservation Fund, Disney’s World of the Steinhart Aquarium (California of this 3–5 year project involves Wildlife Conservation Fund and oth- Academy of Sciences) is involved local partners such as Dr. Anastazia ers. The Manfred Hermsen Founda- in the coral conservation program Banaszak (Universidad Nacional Au- tion, the Henry Doorly Zoo, and the which includes workshops, outreach, tónoma de México, UNAM), Rodolfo Steinhart Aquarium have provided and socio-economic aspects involv- Raigoza (Xcaret Aquarium, Mexico), financial support for the workshop in ing the livelihood of local people and Oscar Álvarez Gil (Puerto Morelos Guam, as well as the Kootje Founda- coral conservation. Reef National Park, CONANP) and tion (Netherlands) is supporting pro- Bob Snowden (Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG ject Philippines. In 2012, the Walton We will start project Guam with Aquarium) taking the lead for the U. S. Family Foundation has started to a training field workshop in July aquaria. Again, the goal is to promote provide initial financial support for 2013. In collaboration with Dr. Lau- local science in coral conservation, multiple project locations, such as rie Raymundo (Marine Laboratory to start an outreach program, to Curacao, the Philippines and Guam. of the University of Guam), Mike address socio-economic aspects and Some of the zoos and aquaria which McCue (Underwater World Guam), to further expand local restoration have been initially participating in the Dave Burdick (Guam Coastal Man- efforts through the expertise of the workshop program have grown to im- agement Program, Government of SECORE network. portant organizational supporters to Guam), Mitch Carl (Henry Doorly Zoo, USA), the SECORE Foundation will 9

Marilee Menard1 & Jeff Jouett2 Unity, » Strength and Synergy:

Charting a Path Forward for the Global Marine Mammal Care Community

“Battered by years of demonstrations, In the 1980s and early 1990s, animal picketing, and lawsuits by animal rights groups began turning their rights advocates, several of the na- attention to whales and dolphins. tion’s leading aquariums have vowed Newly established organizations to fight back.” So began an article included the Zoo Check Campaign in the New York Times that included (1984), which ultimately became the a quote by an aquarium official – umbrella group, Born Free Founda- “We are fed up, and we’re not going tion, and the Whale and Dolphin to take their lies anymore. It is clear Conservation Society (1987). After their real objective is to close all 30 years in operation, a Humane So- aquariums.” ciety of the United States official told the media in 1986 that the group was That was 1991. In 1992, the Alli- “definitely shifting in the direction ance of Marine Mammal Parks and of animal rights faster than anyone Aquariums was formally incorporated would realize from our literature.” as an organization that would unify Humane Society International was the marine mammal care community created in 1991. and provide a public voice on issues of concern. Today, the Alliance is Yet, today, marine mammal facilities a growing international association of are increasing in numbers and in pop- 64 accredited marine parks, aquari- ularity worldwide. Attendance is up, ums, zoos, research facilities, and and the public stands strongly behind professional organizations, almost the missions of zoological parks and © Barry Brown half of which are located outside the aquariums. The 2012 Alliance Harris Endangered Staghorn Coral Spawning United States. Interactive® poll confirms the Ameri- Photo Shoot, Curacao. can public’s extraordinary support for zoological parks and aquariums and its belief that the facilities are which belong the Shedd Aquarium, educational and inspire conservation the Henry Doorly Zoo, the Pitts- action that can help marine mammals burgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, and and their ocean environments. The the Georgia Aquarium. SECORE poll also shows that 97% of young needs the support of the interna- people ages 18 to 24 are interested tional zoo and aquarium commu- in swimming with dolphins in a safe, nity to continue working together permitted environment. towards our common goal, coral reef conservation.

To find out more: 1 Retiring Executive Director of the international www.secore.org Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums 2 CEO Dolphin Quest, Alliance Communications Committee Cochair 10 WAZA news 2/13

The Challenges Today

After decades, animal rights group strategies remain largely the same – lobbying, law suits, media coverage, and pressure tactics. However, social media (blogs, Facebook, and online petitions) have given a louder voice to their vocal, minority positions. A petition on Change.org, for instance, can result in thousands of signatures drawn from animal rights activists worldwide, and intensify pressure on local governments and legislators.

Lobbying is centuries old. Today, with the rise of green parties and an © SeaWorld San Diego increased focus on the environment, Joyful moments for young cancer patients more doors are open to these groups. at SeaWorld San Diego. The Alliance Strategy For centuries, there have been laws against animal cruelty. However, Participants in a 2012 symposium, Since its founding, the Alliance and legal systems have traditionally “Future of Zoos,” imagined zoos 50 to its members have taken a proactive regarded animals as property, not as 100 years from now. They concluded approach. Communications experts beings with distinct individual rights. that large animals, including whales craft position papers on emerg- This view is changing, augmented by and dolphins, might no longer be ing issues. Members seek positive an extraordinary rate of growth in the found in these facilities. media coverage that highlights the field of animal law. Most law schools extraordinary lengths to which they worldwide have at least one animal A 2012 newspaper article on the go to help stranded marine mammals, law course and many are expanding future of zoos pointed out that zoos support research, and care for their their programs. In the United States, are giving greater attention to animal animals. National polls are funded it is anticipated that the Nonhuman care and display of their animals in that confirm public support. Govern- Rights Project will file two law suits response to advances in science and ment decision makers are briefed this year seeking “personhood” for to satisfy an increasingly sophisticated on the positive missions and accom- selected species such as whales, public. Are we seeing a culture shift plishments of zoological parks and dolphins, elephants, and great apes. in public attitudes towards animals? aquariums. The Alliance established If successful, animals, like people, We are. an office in Brussels to better monitor would have the right to sue on their international groups, such as CITES, own behalf. whose decisions affect its members.

Pressure tactics on tour operators, cruise lines, and tour agents are resulting in attempts to develop “guidelines” for parks and aquariums …Yet, today, marine mammal facilities and institute “inspections” of facilities – replete with misinformation and are increasing in numbers and in popularity characterizations supplied by critics. worldwide. Attendance is up, and the Scientists at a conference last year declared that humans are not the public stands strongly behind the missions only conscious beings and issued the Declaration of Rights for Cetaceans: of zoological parks and aquariums.… Whales and Dolphins, stating that cetaceans have the right to life, liberty, and well being. One animal rights publication called this the most over- looked victory for animals of 2012. WAZA news 2/13 11

One Global Voice

Dolphins, whales, and other marine mammals are charismatic and powerful connections to our ocean environments that can foster awareness, education and caring, and inspire stewardship. They are also a favorite of animal rights activists, who make priority targets of zoos, aquariums, and marine parks that care for them. We need to recognize that now, more than ever, the marine mammal community is global – that government actions and restrictions in one country set precedents worldwide, as do the impacts of our critics’ campaigns.

It is time to assemble the leadership of all national and international marine mammal organizations and use this forum for invigorating, strategic thinking and plans for action and advocacy. The global marine mammal community is composed of smart, dedicated, caring professionals who Alliance members support research demonstrate that marine mammals in see every day the impact of their that benefits animals in parks and in the care of humans are loved, treated public messages and the benefits to the wild and provides science-based with the utmost respect and dignity, animals in the wild. Together, we can information to address issues of ma- and provided state-of-the art care create a unified, strong, and syner- rine mammals in human care. Data based on current science. gistic path forward that will under- is shared and compiled to emphasize score the essential role of zoological the success of Alliance members’ Recently, the Alliance crafted a draft parks and aquariums in educating breeding programs and to document international Code of Best Practices the public about the hardships these the notable life spans of members’ for Dolphin Facilities that emphasizes animals face today in the wild and our animals. Educators cooperate in the the quality animal care accredited facilities’ important role in motivating development of fact sheets to ensure parks and aquariums provide their the public to speak out for protection every Alliance member is providing animals. The Alliance has invited like and conservation of these amazing correct, consistent information to organizations to join in sponsoring creatures and their environments. our publics. The Alliance’s detailed the Code. For those facilities that are standards and guidelines are revised not formally accredited, the Code annually to reflect new science and is designed as a benchmark to help professional expertise to ensure best the tourism industry evaluate non- practices in animal health and well- accredited facilities and motivate being, education, conservation, and quality care of dolphins worldwide. scientific research. The Alliance and its members are The public that so adores dolphins and not alone in communicating positive whales and thinks they are so intel- information to the public or tackling ligent wants to know just how much tough issues. Other marine mammal marine mammal professionals really groups are hosting important confer- love the animals, recognize they are ences on animal welfare, looking at smart, provide them extraordinary animal law, and grappling with the care, and understand their individual future of marine mammal display. To find out more: emotional and physical needs. Alli- www.ammpa.org ance materials include vocabulary to 12 WAZA news 2/13

Dennis Ethier WAZA Interview The Man Behind the Scenes and at the Heart of the Aquarium

Dennis (Director, Plant Engineering at New York Aquarium) began his career in the Zoo and Aquarium field in March of 1994 in the Exhibits Department of the Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence, Rhode Island. Born and raised in Rhode Island and a graduate of New England Institute of Technology, Dennis worked through the ranks at RWPZ and was appointed Exhibits Department Manager in 1999. Dennis left the Zoo in March of 2001 for the position of Exhibits and Graphic Arts Department Manager for the Wildlife Conservations Societies, New York Aquarium. Den- nis was promoted to his current position in July of 2003 and manages a department of 10 maintenance staff responsible for care and maintenance of HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing and LSS systems throughout the 14 acre aquarium campus. The Aquarium features marine mammals such as Walrus, Sea Lions, Otters and Harbor Seals and over 350 different species of fish. Current water volume at the aquarium is 1.8 million gallons which is supplied directly from New York Harbor through a seawater filtration plant located under the famous Coney Island Boardwalk.

WAZA: When did you become the What is your everyday work as the exhibits which present challenges Director, Plant Engineering at New Director of Plant Engineering? The for visitor presentation and many York Aquarium and what was your simple answer to this question is old buildings that present challenges carreer path so far? Dennis: I became “everything”; a typical day begins for the life support system/building the Director of the Plant Engineer- between 7–8 and starts with review- maintenance aspects. ing Department in July of 2003; after ing and issuing work orders to the I finished my tour of duty with the maintenance staff (staff begin work How many people does it take to run US Army in 1992, I went back to the at 8), a set of rounds to check on the New York Aquarium? What are restaurant industry but exchanged all aquarium life support systems, the main challenges for your team on my career for my hobby in 1993 when a set of rounds with all contractors a normal day? If I’m not mistaken, the I began working for a residential con- working on the site, usually at least staff at the Aquarium total between tractor. I enrolled in the New England one meeting, additional check-ins 80–85 people spread out among Institute for Technology and had with contractors, reviewing project 7 different departments; we tend intended to start my own construc- schedules and submittals as well as to hire an additional 20–30 people tion business when I was hired for handling a multitude of issues that as seasonal help during our peak a part-time position with the Roger arise on any given day. My typical day season that runs from mid-April Williams Park Zoo. The position was ends somewhere between 17 and 18 through September. I think our main advertised as a 30 day temporary but there are sometimes issues that challenges originate from our aging position and the plan was to work the need to be resolved arising anytime infrastructure but I also feel that our spring at the zoo, graduate and then during a 24 hour period. location can be challenging as well. start the business. The temporary Coney Island is a great location and position was expanded on two sepa- It’s difficult to imagine what’s hap- is beginning to experience a tremen- rate occasions and I was hooked on pening “behind the scene” of an dous resurgence, even in the wake of the mission of Zoos and Aquariums Aquarium such as yours, from mak- Hurricane Sandy, but it is also primar- across the country long before I was ing sure the animals are healthy to ily an amusement district which is offered a full time role with the Zoo in inspecting the tanks and introducing largely dormant in the winter months. the fall of 1994. new animals into the exhibits etc… With the Aquarium being in the same What are the principal challenges for location, we are often perceived as Could you describe the Plant Engi- an aquarium (presentation for visitors being seasonally closed because pub- neering department at New York versus the technical part of the life lic perception is “Coney Island closes Aquarium (how many employees support systems)? I think the biggest for the winter”. are you looking after etc…) and its challenges on both these fronts is role? The Plant Engineering Depart- with the varying age of the facility; Some aquariums organise “behind- ment at the New York Aquarium the Aquarium was founded in 1896 the scenes” tours for the public. Is consists of me, a Facilities Manager, and moved to its current location the New York Aquarium organising a Warehouse Supervisor, a part time on Coney Island in 1957; exhibit and this kind of events? Do you think this Administrative Assistant, a part time administrative buildings were built is a good way to educate the public? Warehouse Clerk and 10 full time anywhere from 1957 to 2010. Prior The Aquarium does offer behind the maintenance workers. The Plant to the construction of the Seawa- scenes tours and although I am not Engineering Department at the New ter Intake Plant, salt water for the an education expert, my opinion is York Aquarium is responsible for the aquariums was made in the basement that the more personal interaction care and maintenance of all Mechani- of the original 1957 building; not in experienced by such a tour lends itself cal, Electrical and Plumbing equip- tanks either, half of the basement tremendously to advancing the con- ment throughout the 14 acre campus was reinforced and used as a salt servation mission of the Aquarium. as well as the care and maintenance water cistern. We still have many old of all animal life support systems equipment and infrastructure. WAZA news 2/13 13

Dennis’s 3 wishes WAZA Interview for the Zoo Genie The Zoo Genie is ready to answer 3 wishes. Talk to him…

1. Let’s make 2013 last about ten years; I have a little boy that Dohlin, was able to make early con- will turn four in July and time is tact with WCS senior management, going by way too fast, all my prior to the phones going out within efforts to slow it down to this a few hours of when the water start- © Julie Larsen Maher point have failed. ed receding, and quickly get the ball 2. A planet (preferably this one) rolling on the necessary relief effort What is your favorite part in your job? where the energy all the countries for the Aquarium. My role was little I live in what is arguably the greatest spend fighting each other is trans- more than what my role is on a daily city in the world yet I get to go to the ferred to energy spent on preserv- basis with a few exceptions: I did 95% beach to work every day but outside ing the planet. Perhaps then we of my work without sitting behind the of location would be the people and achieve the ultimate goal of a sus- desk, there was more work handling organization I am fortunate enough tainable planet that is no longer the multitude of issues than there to represent. I became dedicated polluted and wildlife is approaching was in dealing with contractors or sit- to Zoos and Aquariums in 1994 at over-population at the same rate it ting in meetings, the work day began RWPZ and I think a lot of that had to is currently approaching extinction. between 6–7 and ended around 22 do with not only the mission of these 3. I’ll let the Zoo Genie have and the calls in the middle of the conservation organizations, but the this one as long as the first two night were not that big a deal given passion of the staff members at each are granted… I slept at the Aquarium for the first institution. It feels good to go home 5 nights after the storm. There was every day feeling that you are part a whole lot of creative thinking going of an organization that is making the day of the storm, we adjusted on to get ourselves around certain a difference in the world with its daily our plans by relocating additional roadblocks that we came across. activities. I have felt privileged to be equipment to high ground, moving I’ve had staff approach me and thank a part of this industry from early on computer equipment from floors to me for saving the Aquarium and they when RWPZ partnered with the Has- desks and sand bagged additional all get the same response that it was bro Children’s Hospital in Providence areas. I had a conversation with our not me; no one man or woman could RI to build a small rainforest exhibit Curator of Animal Health regarding have pulled this off without a signifi- in the hospital, through my current her experiences in December of 1990 cant support effort from the top to tenure with the Wildlife Conserva- when the Aquarium last flooded to try the bottom of the organization, what tion Society that began in 2001. Who and gauge what our potential impact we accomplished over the first 7 days wouldn’t be proud to call one of the might be. Since the flood in 1990, the after the storm was a complete team major players in spearheading global Army Corp of Engineers restored the effort and anything less than a team conservation efforts around the globe beaches on Coney Island and raised effort would have translated into their home; the only comparison them over 10 feet so we were all un- failure. That team effort continues I have to this is how it must have felt certain of exactly what type of surge through to this very day. like to play for the Boston Celtics we could withstand. Once we started back in the 60’s when the team won flooding buildings, it was more of What are, according to you, the main 8 consecutive NBA championships. a mad scramble to attempt shutting qualities to be a Director of Plant down equipment in the hopes of be- Engineering in an aquarium? I think New York Aquarium had to face the ing able to salvage it after the waters the first quality would be the ability “Hurricane Sandy disaster” in Novem- receded; we began taking water in to handle about 27.265 tasks at one ber 2012: the aquarium was overtak- buildings at about 7pm and gave up time but the most important quality en by surge waters during the storm, the battle around midnight when the would be understanding that handling creating significant and long-lasting flood waters rose above the storm a little over 27 tasks simultaneously damage throughout. What were the doors and generator intake louvers will never be enough so just get over it immediate actions taken to face this for our Sea Cliffs building. and keep moving forward. I think ded- emergency situation? Beginning ication to the job, belief in the mission the day prior to the storm we sand- The aquarium should be reopened along with belief in your colleagues bagged areas that we could without during late spring this year. How was and staff helps you achieve your goals impeding guest movements, serviced this possible and what was your role and objectives. Another important our generators and storm doors, during this “recovery” phase? I think quality would be in diversity; I am not started water pumps to make sure the first part of this question is simply an expert in any given subject matter they were operational and moved answered by the stating the extreme but I feel I have enough knowledge equipment from the lower levels to dedication and professionalism of the on many subjects to “keep me out of upper levels. As the storm predictions staff, not only at the Aquarium but trouble”, or at least make some intel- continued to change throughout WCS as a whole. Our Director, Jon ligent suggestions. 14 WAZA news 2/13

Jon Forrest Dohlin1 & James J. Breheny2 Impact of Superstorm Sandy on the New York Aquarium

New York City has experienced severe flood prone buildings were sand- At 7.50pm on Monday evening, the weather events in the past. Since bagged, radios were checked and re- 29th of October, Hurricane Sandy its establishment in 1899 the Bronx checked, generators serviced, storm came ashore in New York as a “super- Zoo – headquarters of the Wildlife crew lists drawn up and City agencies storm” – an unprecedented combina- Conservation Society – has faced notified. Any fixture, equipment tion of size, speed, track, tide and down ice storms, wind storms, snow or material that could be battened moon phase that unleashed havoc in storms and repeated flooding of the down was gathered and secured. At the coastal areas of the mid-Atlantic Bronx River. The season of 2011–2012 the Aquarium, extra oxygen canisters and New England. The surge rose to alone brought an earthquake, tor- were stockpiled and deployed around 11’ above mean high tide, inundating nado, microburst wind event, bliz- the facility at every exhibit. Non- the aquarium with 3–4’ of water, de- zards, nor’easters and Hurricane essential personnel were sent home, stroying electrical transformers, fill- Irene. During the high wind events of the City closed down, mass-transit ing basements full of LSS and HVAC 2012 the zoo had suffered the loss of came to a halt. Every weather agency systems, flooding offices, sweeping more than 160 trees, many of them and news channel tracking the storm over holding tanks and overwhelming large specimen trees that had graced was monitored as it moved up the flood preparations within minutes. the grounds for decades. The New Eastern Seaboard. The 18 members of the aquarium’s York Aquarium had seen the eye of storm crew were forced to retreat to Hurricane Irene pass right overhead In the hours leading up to the storm, the command center on the second and several major storm surges in a steady rhythm of communica- floor of the health center to wait for the years since re-locating to Coney tion had developed between WCS surge to subside. Throughout the city Island in 1957. Still, nothing had fully headquarters and the Aquarium. As communications came to a halt as prepared us for Superstorm Sandy. preparations drew to a close and copper transmission lines were hit by the storm approached, reports on corrosive salt water and cell phone The days leading up to October 29th the progress of preparation were towers were cut off or destroyed in had been clear and filled with activity. replaced by regular reports on the the 60–80 mph windgusts. The last Across the five WCS facilities in New progress of the storm. WCS Zoos and texts between Dohlin and Breheny York – the Bronx Zoo, Central Park Aquarium Executive Vice President tell the story: Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, Queens Zoo and Bronx Zoo Director Jim Breheny and the New York Aquarium – crews and WCS Vice President and Direc- • Dohlin, 19.55, October 29 2012: worked to prepare for the oncoming tor of the New York Aquarium Jon “Lost power. Full on flood. Con Hall storm. In particular, the Bronx Zoo, Forrest Dohlin, along with other WCS underwater. Keeping wards at hos- with its 265 acre campus covered senior staff, met via teleconference pital sandbagged. Surge came up with hardwood forest, and the New every 6 hours in the day leading up to from zero to full in 5 minutes” York Aquarium, 14 acres right on the Hurricane Sandy’s landfall, and filled • Breheny, 20.01, October 29 2012: Atlantic Ocean in Brooklyn’s famous in the hours between with texts and “Hang in there. Keep talking to me Coney Island, feverishly prepared for email, sharing a particular concern as you can.” the anticipated hurricane force winds for the vulnerability of the Aquarium • Breheny, 20.16, October 29 2012: and coastal flooding. Emergency as the rest of Coney Island and other “I’m hanging brother… let me equipment was tested and fueled, low-lying areas of New York City were know …” food was stockpiled for both animals evacuated. • The silence would last until Tuesday and staff, vehicles moved away from afternoon. vulnerable locations, low-lying or

1 Wildlife Conservation Society Vice President and Director New York Aquarium 2 Wildlife Conservation Society Executive Vice President and General Director Zoos and Aquarium General Director Bronx Zoo WAZA news 2/13 15

While the WCS leadership rode out The surge had overwhelmed and From an operational standpoint our the hurricane force winds and as- destroyed some outdoor holding priorities were clear: pump out the sessed damage and began cleaning pools where we had been keeping basements, get emergency genera- up the debris and downed trees in koi (Cyprinus carpio) while working tors running and bring in additional the Bronx in the storm’s aftermath, on their exhibit, and we estimated generating capacity, replace or re- the leadership team at the aquarium 300–500 fish were lost. In the hours build equipment in order to provide met in water up to their waists to immediately after losing power, the partial filtration to exhibits and run report out the full impact of the crisis. aquarium lost an exhibit of jack temporary electrical feeds from gen- The situation was dire in the hours crevalle (Caranx hippos) and permit erators to LSS. Simple in concept but after the storm as the waters began (Trachinotus falcatus) as dissolved almost impossible under the circum- slowly to recede. The surge had over- oxygen levels in their tank plummet- stances, with much of our supplies whelmed and destroyed electrical ed before crews could safely access and equipment destroyed, no com- service in a way that created an over- the exhibit hall. Still, the reports from munication or access to the outside lapping set of problems: transform- a quick census of the animals and world, limited fuel availability and ers responsible for accepting power exhibits in the first hours after the much of New York closed or devas- from the city’s utility grid had been storm were encouraging. As soon as tated. Nonetheless, Director of Park destroyed; the electrical panels and water levels allowed, storm crews, Engineering Dennis Ethier and his distribution systems that distributed led by General Curator and Director crew set to work immediately, hook- power to life support systems and of Animal Operations David DeNardo, ing up gas and diesel trash pumps to emergency equipment were located began moving through the muddy, begin moving the estimated million in basements now flooded with dark, debris-laden buildings to deploy gallons of water from the basements 10–15’ of salt water; and the aquar- oxygen to the tanks and raise DO lev- of the facility, pulling out whatever ium’s suite of emergency genera- els, and our initial assessment found replacement filtration pumps could tors, designed to supply emergency no problems with any other animals be found in the ruined warehouse backup power throughout the facility, in the exhibits and holding areas we and scavenging electrical cable from were destroyed or rendered useless could access. The penguin and marine areas that did not flood. We imme- by the loss of electrical switchgear mammal collection, including our diately set up around the clock shifts and distribution. Of the aquarium’s newly acquired orphaned walrus calf, in order to keep equipment fueled six emergency generators only one, Mitik, had weathered the storm with- and oxygen cylinders monitored, and a natural-gas fired generator on the out incident. Some exhibits in our Sea crews led by Director of Park Services roof of the Aquatic Animal Health Cliffs viewing area and holding tanks Rodney Rollins began the cleanup by Center, was operable in the days fol- in Conservation Hall remained under clearing safe pathways to allow keep- lowing the storm. The pumps, filters, flood water and were assumed lost. ers and maintainers access to exhibits UV sterilizers, boilers and chillers that Our immediate concern for the col- and equipment. make up the Life Support Systems lection was managing water qualities and ensure the health and safety of without LSS systems or the ability to the collection were rendered useless make significant water changes, and without power, but more alarm- in addition to monitoring DO levels ingly, most of these systems were in and pressure we immediately ceased the same basements and sub-grade or reduced feedings in order to slow utility areas now under salt water. the build-up of nitrates, and began to The aquarium’s Sea Water Intake and make salt water wherever we could, Discharge Pump Station was similarly using trashcans as mixing chambers, flooded and inaccessible, though in order to be able to make small but the freshwater supply from the city significant water changes to help remained intact. water qualities. 16 WAZA news 2/13

On Tuesday, to the relief of all concerned, we were finally able to restore intermittent contact with the leadership at WCS, updating them on conditions, and developing a list of needed equipment that could be found at the other facilities – and from that moment the resources and expertise of WCS were mobilized unceasingly for the recovery of the New York Aquarium. Large generators, multiple pumps, fuel, electrical equipment, oxygen canisters, aquar- © WCS ium salt, manpower and hot food Water everywhere. began to arrive throughout the day on Wednesday. Jim Breheny; WCS President and CEO Cristian Samper; As of this writing, the Wildlife Conser- York, is back on track and redesigned WCS Executive VP and CFO Patricia vation Society has spent more than to withstand future high water. WCS Calabrese; WCS Executive VP of $6M in the effort to stabilize and pro- conservation expertise in New York Government Affairs John Calvelli; VP tect the animals in our care and begin and around the world is critical in of Communications Mary Dixon and the process of rebuilding. The work providing the science to inform and others toured the facility along with with our partners in the city, state shape the policy and cultural choices Dohlin, DeNardo, Ethier and Rollins and federal governments continues facing this city of islands in an era of to assess conditions and develop with the rough estimate for rebuild- dynamic climate change. We contin- plans for the ongoing logistics and ing the aquarium currently at $65M, ue to build on the success of our New communications of the clean-up. an effort that will take years. We are York Seascape conservation program Outside contractors with expertise housed in temporary trailers and in order to provide this voice here at in high voltage electrical work were makeshift spaces, and the aquarium – home – on the water, in the halls of brought in, orders went out around the sole year-round attraction on government, and right here at the the country for required equipment Coney Island’s Boardwalk – has been New York Aquarium. Led by Cristian and material, and emergency cleanup closed for five months. But, like the Samper, Jim Breheny, Patti Cala- crews arrived to begin the daunting sun shining again after a storm, there brese, John Calvelli and our Board task of removing water soaked carpet, is reason to be optimistic about our of Trustees, WCS’ commitment to drywall and debris, dehumidifying future. Our website appeal for sup- bringing back the aquarium had been buildings and disinfecting all surfaces port has generated more than $1M to unwavering. to avoid the secondary dangers of date, bringing in support and encour- mold formation. Outside insurance agement from all 50 states and more In early April, WCS announced that adjusters with experience in Katrina than 12 countries across the globe. a partial re-opening of the New York and other disasters were contracted Our role as an economic engine and Aquarium on May 25th 2013, which will to lead the effort to document and redevelopment anchor in this hard- reopen half of the aquarium experi- prepare claims for insurance and hit community has never been so ence. We expect to have the aquar- FEMA. By the end of the first week, important, and so widely appreciated. ium fully open to the public in 2016. WCS VP and Chief Architect Susan Our Education programs continue to This culmination of our non-stop Chin and staff were leading teams attract grants to provide science edu- work since Sandy would not be pos- of engineers through an assessment cation to more than 15,000 students sible without our colleagues, friends and documentation of every piece of a year from some of our city’s most and supporters within WCS and in the equipment in every building across under-resourced schools. Our $140M profession around the world. We are the 14 acre campus, beginning an capital expansion plan – just days incredibly grateful. exhaustive and complex process that away from breaking ground before will continue into the foreseeable Sandy hit – designed to bring new at- future. tention to shark conservation and the diverse beauty of the waters of New WAZA news 2/13 17

David Kimmel My Career The Captain, The Ship, The Compass…

From an aerial view, Georgia Aquar- “The advantage that I had was having ium appears as a ship – an ark even; a true understanding of what this and that’s no mistake. It’s actually by place is really all about. [I under- design, a design of which David Kim- stood] the basis upon which the mel helped bring to life as the then Aquarium was founded and why Vice President of Program Manage- we did the things that we did here; ment for the program management I was actually a part of that decision- firm charged with directing the making process,” said Kimmel. “So, development the facility. Now, as the I don’t look at myself as coming in current President and Chief Operat- from the outside. I look at myself as ing Officer of one of the world’s larg- someone who really was promoted est aquariums, Kimmel is at the ship’s from within.” helm – the captain, so to speak… and in his hand – is a compass. Before it all, a young Kimmel set his sights upon a skyscraping goal and never wavered from his aspiration The Captain of being an engineer. With Plain- view, Long Island, New York as his © Georgia Aquarium In 2010, when Georgia Aquarium’s hometown, there was no end to the David Kimmel at office. founder and Chief Executive Officer architecture to which he was exposed. Bernie Marcus placed a call to Kim- Kimmel, however, was most drawn mel asking him to assume the presi- to the bridges linking New York’s dency of the organization, he may boroughs – the Brooklyn Bridge, not have known that he was making Verrazano-Narrows Bridge and the “It took a while for it to settle in,” Kim- Kimmel’s dream come true. At age 55, George Washington Bridge – all of mel said. “It’s very rare that you have Kimmel, an executive who had spent which were built by engineers who the opportunity to create something the first 34 years of his career in de- were graduates of Rensselaer Poly- and then have the ability to lead it sign and construction management, technic Institute (RPI). It was then once it’s created. Georgia Aquarium had intentions to leave the industry that he realized the determination is not just a thing; it gets under your and make a complete career change. that he, too, would be an RPI grad. skin and becomes a part of you. It’s How, exactly, he didn’t quite know. After achieving that goal by earning not that thing that you do from nine- He thought he might take a part-time a BS in Civil Engineering from RPI, he to-five, it’s not a job anymore; it’s job at The Home Depot, imagining went on to complete graduate course a part of your life.” himself a perfect associate for cus- work in Civil Engineering from the tomers’ home improvement projects. University of South Carolina. Bernie Marcus, also the co-founder of The Ship The Home Depot, had a better idea. Spending nearly three and a half decades in engineering and a few Boasting 604,000 square feet, tens of With a relationship that had begun notable accomplishments footnoting thousands of fish spanning more than four years before Georgia Aquarium’s his resume, Kimmel always thought 100 species, and an average of over 2005 opening, Kimmel was already back to his boyhood idealism. two million visitors annually, Georgia intimately familiar with Georgia Aquarium is one of the world’s must- Aquarium. Not only had he served as “I wanted to create; I wanted to build. see aquariums. An immediate success the project manager for the Aquari- I wanted to have a bridge named since its opening seven years ago, um’s initial construction, from 2007 to after me,” Kimmel shares. Georgia Aquarium has surpassed ex- 2010 Kimmel’s firm also oversaw the pectations. For an organization which Aquarium’s dolphin gallery and theat- After accepting the position as excels in entertainment, education, er expansion. So, for Kimmel, transi- president, it dawned on him. With the research and conservation, one may tioning into the position of president help of his father’s insight, Kimmel wonder what is on Kimmel’s to-do list was not as difficult as many may have realized he ‘had his bridge.’ Georgia for the future. anticipated – though worlds apart are Aquarium. engineering and the daily operation of a zoological facility. 18 WAZA news 2/13

The Compass

Kimmel isn’t shy about sharing that the Georgia Aquarium ‘crew’ – nearly 600 staff members and more than 2,000 volunteers – are what keep this ship afloat. Yet, without direction and guidance, organizations such as the aquarium often find themselves adrift and without purpose.

© Georgia Aquarium). Phoca vitulina Earlier this year, Kimmel and Aquar- ium administrators unveiled a new David Kimmel and harbour seal ( set of guiding principles to its staff, which they dubbed The Compass. The “We are doing world-class research Compass incorporates the organi- “We are far from being done. Georgia beyond what we ever initially imag- zation’s mission, vision and values. Aquarium will never rest on its laurels. ined,” Kimmel adds. This new framework provides that Georgia Aquarium is about what we the qualities of integrity, innovation, are doing both today and well into In addition to this admirable work, leadership, teamwork, respect, excel- the future, both from a facility side Georgia Aquarium has also become lence, and appreciation are what will and from our program side,” says an integral part of its local commu- secure Georgia Aquarium’s standing Kimmel, who recently presented nity and is exploring the organiza- as an unparalleled facility in the zoos the Aquarium’s board of directors tion’s important role in philanthropy. and aquarium community. a comprehensive long-range business In the past, it has facilitated ‘welcome plan that will guide the organiza- home’ celebrations for families reu- “Our original mission statement tion through the next ten years and niting with loved ones returning from served us extremely well in our early beyond as it assumes its place among military service, and regularly hosts years. But when that statement was the world’s most recognized and a swim program for military veterans adopted, we never contemplated admired zoological institutions. who have returned to civilian life all the things we’re doing today,” after having been injured in the line Kimmel said. “So we needed to re- What really stands out in Kimmel’s of duty, in partnership with Atlanta’s envision and clearly articulate our di- comprehensive plan is the expan- Shepherd Center for spinal cord injury rection now and in the future in a way sion of the organization’s current rehabilitation. These are things Kim- that is meaningful to the people who research and conservation initia- mel would like to see more of. are here today.” tives which seek to positively impact animal populations globally. Georgia “Philanthropy isn’t just about donat- Unlike a GPS device, says Kimmel, Aquarium is already a leading facility ing money. Philanthropy is some- a compass will help his team chart for aquatic animal conservation and thing our team and I can do every and maintain a course for the future, research. Not only does its in-house, single day of our lives. Our staff gets but gives them the autonomy to state-of-the-art Correll Center for a tremendous amount of gratification make decisions without providing Aquatic Animal Health support its 4R from serving others,” Kimmel says. step-by-step instructions. Georgia Program (Rehabilitation, Responsibil- Aquarium’s Compass, both moral and ity, Rescue and Research), Georgia Guests can also look forward to see- pragmatic in nature, points the or- Aquarium also conducts and supports ing compelling and entertaining new ganization to a horizon where it is no global field research in the specialty episodes of Ocean Mysteries with Jeff longer start-up endeavor, but a long- fields of wildlife medicine and veteri- Corwin from Georgia Aquarium, the term, sustainable organization. nary pathology. Its research partners organization’s weekly TV series that include such respected institutions as airs weekly on 220 ABC-TV affiliates “After spending my first three years Mote Marine Laboratory, University across the United States. Warmly here as President really working with of Miami, Florida Atlantic University, received by the viewing public, and the goal of making sure that Georgia Georgia State University, Emory among the top-rated new syndicated Aquarium is on a firm foundation, University, Georgia Institute of Tech- TV series in its debut season, the I have learned something remarka- nology, and the non-profit wildlife educational series documents the ble,” Kimmel says. “And that is, there rehabilitation group, SANCCOB. Their travels of Corwin and Aquarium sci- is really nothing we can’t do. We be- studies range from the surveying entists as they unlock the mysteries lieve in the impossible and achieve of free-ranging African penguins to of oceans across the globe. Journeys the unimaginable.” whale sharks off the northern shores that explore the unique creatures and of the Yucatan Peninsula. Now the fascinating stories of New Zealand, Aquarium is on the brink of creat- Costa Rica and Alaska are already ing its own research institution with planned for upcoming episodes. a ‘one-world, one-health’ concept. WAZA news 2/13 19

Alistair Dove – Georgia Aquarium Whale Sharks »

When Georgia Aquarium opened its Georgia Aquarium currently houses Prior to opening in 2005, Georgia doors to the public in November 2005, four whale sharks in its Ocean Voy- Aquarium has participated in research whale sharks instantly became a flag- ager exhibit, which is presently the on whale sharks in Quintana Roo, ship species for America’s newest largest single exhibit in the world, Mexico, where whale sharks aggre- zoological institution. In the ensuing containing 6.3 million gallons (23.85 gate annually in the summertime off 8 years, a number of extraordinary million liters) of synthetic seawater the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. research opportunities have arisen for and a diverse collection of teleosts Initially, this work was carried out in aquarium staff, both among the col- and elasmobranchs. On a diet of collaboration with the Mexican Fed- lection and in the field. This process Euphausia superba and E. pacifica krill eral Government and Mote Marine has paralleled a veritable explosion (a type of small shrimp-like crus- Laboratory under the auspices of the of research interest in whale sharks tacean), lance fish, silversides and Project Domino consortium, which in the academic community, start- vitaminsed gel diet, all four animals explored population size and compo- ing with the first International Whale have grown significantly since they sition as well as field diet studies and Shark Conference in Perth, Australia, were added to the collection (ap- migratory behavior with a view to in 2005. Despite being the world’s proximately 1–3 ft/or 0.3–1 m per better management of a burgeoning largest fish species, remarkably little year). They have proven amenable to ecotourism industry. More recently, was known about its biology before a limited amount of training, which the Aquarium has co-founded a new then, certainly relative to cetaceans has greatly aided the husbandry staff NGO, Ch’ooj Ajauil (Mayan for “Blue and other better known marine in their management of the collec- Realm”), with Mexican whale shark megafauna. As a result of the rapid tion. For instance, each animal is fed biologists led by Rafael de la Parra, growth in whale shark science, we with a different colored ladle and to advocate for greater conserva- have transformed our understanding from a specific feeding station, to tion protections for this region. The of this species in exciting ways in just which they return with good fidel- collective research efforts of Project a few years. ity; they are evidently much more Domino and Blue Realm have de- food motivated than many sharks scribed two whale shark aggregations Whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) that have more sporadic predatory including the largest known to science, are an extraordinary circum-global habits. Interestingly, a similar capac- as well as characterizing whale shark elasmobranch that lives in equatorial, ity for operant conditioning is evident diets and feeding behavior in Yucatan tropical and subtropical waters. They among manta rays, another giant Mexico, investigating their chemosen- are the only pelagic member of their filter feeder, with which they share sory ability to detect food in the open order, the Orectolobiformes, which their exhibit. ocean, revealing their migratory pat- includes typically bottom-dwelling terns through satellite telemetry and species such as the zebra shark Adult whale sharks may reach lengths cataloguing over 900 new individual (Stegastoma fasciatum), wobbegongs of 45 feet (14 meters) or more, and animals through photographic iden- (Orectolobus spp.), and bamboo weights in excess of 25,000lbs (12 tification using the ECOCEAN global sharks (Hemiscyllium and Chiloscyl- tonnes), which makes them the larg- whale shark database. lium spp.). But the two things that est fish of any kind, cartilaginous or really set whale sharks apart from all bony. Their observed diet in a natural other shark species are their excep- setting consists of krill, as well as fish tionally large size and their filter- eggs, larval fish and other members feeding habit, both of which doubt- of the larger zooplankton. To feed …Far from being lessly contribute to their English successfully on such items, whale common name. Different cultures sharks have evolved intricate filter sub-reptilian recognize whale sharks with a range pads derived from their gill rakers, of other colourful names includ- which line a capacious mouth that automatons, this ing marokintana (Malagasy), which may be 4 feet (1.3m) wide and equally means “coat of stars”; jimbe zame as long. Collaborative research study has shown (Japanese), which means “spotted ki- between Georgia Aquarium, Mote mono”; papa shilingi (Swahili), which Marine Laboratory and University of that whale sharks means “covered in coins”; and ca ong South Florida has shown that the way (Vietnamese), which rather fittingly these filter pads function is unique have a surprisingly means “Sir fish”. among fishes and harnesses a remarkable engineering process called diverse behavioral cross-flow filtration, which allows extremely efficient filtration without repertoire … clogging. 20 WAZA news 2/13

The management of a collection of shark behavior certainly differs from Georgia Aquarium’s research has whale sharks in an aquarium setting ethological studies in, say, marine focused on the internal biology of has also presented truly unique and mammals or primates. The biggest whale sharks, based in large part on exciting in-house research opportuni- difference is that the observer needs samples obtained during veterinary ties of a quite different nature than to “slow down” their mindset; whale procedures. We have described the those underway for field popula- sharks move slowly, and their behav- morphology of whale shark blood tions. Studies of animals in human iors tend to present quietly and subtly cells, which is consistent with other care have so far focused on behavior, over longer time spans than most orectolobiforms in that they have functional anatomy, basic biology, behaviourists are used to. Nonethe- large red and white cells. This may internal physiology, homeostasis and less, this is an exciting area of study, have important implications for genetics. Whale shark research, in and one that will hopefully pave the their functional capacity because, particular, is an integral component way for more behavioral studies of for instance, red cell size is inversely of Georgia Aquarium’s emerging One this and other elasmobranchs. proportional to oxygen carrying ca- Ocean, One Health program, which pacity. More recently, we have been integrates studies of animal, hu- At times during the short history of collaborating with researchers at the man and environmental health. In Georgia Aquarium, the staff has car- Georgia Institute of Technology and a unique collaboration between staff, ried out veterinary exams on whale the University of Birmingham in the volunteers, students and behavioral sharks in the Ocean Voyager exhibit. UK to explore the chemistry of whale ecologists at Georgia State Uni- These medical procedures require shark serum using a discovery-based versity, we have begun to explore the collaboration of dozens of people, approach called metabolomics, which the behavior of whale sharks in the from veterinary services to dive applies nuclear magnetic resonance Ocean Voyager exhibit through the operations, husbandry, plant engi- spectroscopy (1H NMR) and mass Whale Shark Behavioural Observation neering and life support. The result is spectrometry (MS) techniques to Program. Far from being sub-reptilian that veterinary staff have been able determine the composition of fluid automatons, this study has shown to obtain blood and other biological samples. These methods have pro- that whale sharks have a surpris- samples for clinical assessment, as vided tremendous amounts of data ingly diverse behavioral repertoire, well as apply several imaging modali- about the specific components of and there is even some preliminary ties (e.g. ultrasound, endoscopy), and whale shark serum and their rela- evidence of social interactions in the it has also allowed the husbandry tive abundances, which reveal much group, such as predictable outcomes staff to obtain accurate morphomet- about the metabolism of this spe- of physical contact between given ric measurements in ways that have cies. We have so far identified over pairs of individuals. Observing whale not yet been possible in field studies. twenty potentially useful biomarkers WAZA news 2/13 21

of health, many of which may be Future research on whale sharks at biologically-relevant data about this applicable to other shark species as Georgia Aquarium will be to maxi- remarkable species. Tremendous well. From these sorts of analyses, we mize the extraordinary opportunities logistic challenges lie in the future of hope to build a conceptual model of presented by housing this unique spe- these efforts because this species is the physiology of whale sharks and cies in an aquarium setting, and then so large and so intractable that even to optimize methods for metabo- to take methods and approaches we simple natural history studies can lomic studies of other marine species. develop and apply them to the field. be incredibly hard to achieve. But Indeed, since the publication of the A good example is the refinement of through collaboration with talented whale shark metabolomics study, we laser photogrammetry. In this non- specialists, we have come a long way have started metabolomic studies on invasive technique, calibrated laser in just a few years in the aquarium salmon and bottlenose dolphins. points are projected onto an animal, setting and the potential research photographed by a diver, and then returns are great for whale sharks Tissue samples taken from the first used to derive accurate estimates of and for sharks in general. By com- two male animals in the collection, different morphometric measure- mitting to ongoing, creative and which died in late 2006 and early ments. We are currently validating collaborative research activities, we 2007, have produced invaluable scien- this method by measuring the same 4 can fill gaping holes in the scientific tific data and continue to do so up to aquarium animals many, many times understanding of one of the world’s the present day. Material from these and developing a robust understand- largest and most unusual species. animals was essential to the research ing of the precision of the technique. The aquarium’s collection can also on functional anatomy of the filter We can then apply photogrammetry form a focal point for whale shark feeding apparatus and to the only in the field where there is usually only research throughout the world. The study of comparative brain anatomy one or two opportunities to obtain best example yet of this may be the in sharks. Perhaps most excitingly, a measurement of any given animal, upcoming 3rd International Whale DNA extracted from spleen and liver and still have good confidence in Shark Conference (http://iwsc3. tissue from these animals is forming the length estimates obtained. This info), which will be held at Georgia the basis of a whale shark genome is important information because Aquarium in October 2013. Our goal sequencing project, which is a col- studies elsewhere have shown that is that the burgeoning science sur- laboration between the aquarium ecotourism can and does affect the rounding this species will continue to and several research groups at Emory size of whale sharks in a population; provide a steady stream of content University. No other shark has had size changes may be an important for outreach and education programs its entire genome sequenced to indicator of our impact on the species. and thereby enhance global efforts date, and the whale shark also forms to preserve and protect the amazing an interesting target for genomics Proper research requires both field whale shark. because it is the largest member of and aquarium settings. While we can the largest class of vertebrates and learn a tremendous amount from so represents a phenotypic extreme animals in human care, it will always among its relatives. Sharks were also require extrapolation to apply these the first vertebrate group to evolve findings to wild populations, so there an adaptive immune system that remains no substitute for field work relies on antibodies, so the genomic when it comes to collecting the most basis of their immune function tells us about the evolution of our own ability to fight off disease via adaptive immunity.

…The aquarium’s collection can also form a focal point for whale shark research throughout the world… To find out more: www.georgiaaquarium.org 22 Books WAZA news 2/13

Gerald Dick – WAZA Executive Office Book Reviews The Tapir Scientist Visit the Zoo, vol. XII By Sy Montgomery, photo- By Tom Smith graphs by Nic Bishop Frederick Fichman Publishing, Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, Maricopa, USA, 2013, 46 pp, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2013, ISBN 13978-0-9889636-9-6 80 pp, ISBN 978-0-547-81548-0 With over 120 zoo animals in twelve The “Visit the Zoo” series gives An adventurous book for adventur- separate books, “Visit the Zoo” takes children and young adults an im- ers, you feel being part of a group of you on a walking tour of the zoo mediate appreciation for the animal people looking for tapirs, guided by through vivid, close up and personal word. There are little known facts scientists; one guide spotted what photography, with concise and easy about these animals that will aston- they came for right when entering to read descriptions of the animals. ish young minds. The purpose of the the tapir’s trail on the very first page: The marvelous aspect of this series is series is to expose our young ones a tapir (TAY-peer). “It’s surely one of that in each animal description you to the animals that share our planet. the weirdest looking and most myste- learn something fascinating, new From all corners of our world zoos rious animals on earth”, that’s what and even astonishing about their have collected these wondrous crea- he said when leading a group of peo- anatomy or behavior. This existing tures from places on earth that most ple coming from three different conti- journey through the modern zoo of these children and young adults nents. Pati Medici, a well known field with its large collection of familiar will never visit. More than just an biologist of Brazil, leading a WAZA and strange creatures is also a won- identification plaque in front of a zoo branded project, guides through derful educational tool for young or habitat or enclosure, reading the the book and explains the different not-so-young minds. The population books in the “Visit the Zoo” Series is tapir species, their biology and also status of each animal, endangered or like having a personal docent in the meets capybaras, yacare caimans, not, is described and details of their palm of your hand in a Ebook reader, rheas, toucans and wild pigs amongst habitat, diet, dimensions and longev- tablet of smartphone. other species. The reader joins the ity are discussed as well. scientists for trapping tapirs which are then tracked by radio telemetry. To get access to the online book: This is not an easy task and you get type „Frederick Fichman“ in the the impression to be really part of the search bar of www.amazon.com or team. The book is lively written and www.barnesandnoble.com/Nook well illustrated by stunning photos. To find ouot more: It is great fun to join the team and www.visit-the-zoo.com learn about the Pantanal while driv- ing over the dusty tracks and checking camera traps. The wonderful journey, accompanying the team of biologists, ends rather quickly, but for sure the perception of stupid tapirs – as often heard in Brazil – is put right in this publication. And: it is not only about tapirs: “Conservationists recognize tapirs as an “umbrella species” – animals who need large amounts of land and often different habitat types. If tapirs are protected, that “umbrella” of protection will safeguard many other species as well.”

The book can be ordered at: www.hmhbooks.com WAZA news 2/13 Announcements 23

WAZA Executive Office Announcements Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine

AAZV Offers Free Online Subscription to the Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine for WAZA Members

WAZA has been supporting the receives a user name and password Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine for access. (Sorry, there are no insti- for several years. As a token of ap- tutional subscriptions through the preciation for WAZA’s support, AAZV AAZV system). AAZV sends an updat- is making the Journal available online ed list to the publisher (Allen Press) to WAZA members. about four weeks prior to publication of each issue, and the issues come Many of the veterinarians practicing out in March, June, September and in WAZA member institutions already December each year. If you would like subscribe to the Journal through their to take advantage of this offer, please membership in AAZV, EAZWV, or as send an email to [email protected] a subscription. However, if your vet- with the following information: Online access runs out automatically erinarian does not have access, now’s • The name of your institution each year on 31 January, so it will be your chance to give her/him access. • The name and contact email necessary for you to order access If your veterinarian has access already, address of the person submitting each year if your membership is ac- you may order online access for a vet- this information tive with WAZA and if you want the erinarian at a sister institution that • The name of the veterinarian veterinarian to have access continu- you work with. The offer is limited to who you would like to grant access ally going forward. You can send the one online access per institution. to the JZWM above information any time between • The name of the institution where 15 November and 31 January to en- Here’s how it works. The AAZV sys- the veterinarian works sure seamless access. tem only allows for individuals to gain • The email address of the online access, and each individual veterinarian

2012 Proceedings of Melbourne Conference Mermaids Celebrate World Ocean Day 2013! Published We’d like to offer you the opportunity We have prepared a study guide that The proceedings of the 67th An- to engage, entertain, and inform your can be used as an educational tool to nual WAZA Conference have been visitors with “Mission of Mermaids”, share with your audience, large and published and are available on the a fifteen-minute documentary writ- small. This can be found on the web- WAZA website. The full version of ten, directed, and produced by Susan site oceanconnection.org. Listed on the proceedings are available on the Rockefeller. Her previous filmmak- the site are some of the United States’ members’ area (documents) whereas ing credits include co-producing the best aquariums under the Resources the technical congress papers only much-lauded “A Sea Change”, the first page on the site. If yours is not there, are again publically available under feature-length documentary about please let us know and we’ll be sure Marketing/Publications. ocean acidification. The mermaid is to include it. the perfect storytelling vehicle to open We are eager to work with you in our eyes, stretch our imaginations, support of our mutual mission to and bring emotion and science togeth- serve the ocean-loving public. er in a way that transcends cultures, For more information, generations, and even politics. We are contact Gwendolyn Alston at promoting screenings of “Mission of [email protected] Mermaids” around the globe to com- memorate World Ocean Day on June 8th, 2013, and would like to partner with you to present the film at your zoo or aquarium. Free of charge.

To find out more: www.missionofmermaids.com 24 Announcements WAZA news 2/13

Andrij Horodysky and colleagues Tarpons, Ladyfishes, and Bonefishes assessed for the IUCN Red List

For the first time, all species of An interesting finding of the review Tarpons, Ladyfishes, and Bonefishes was that bonefish and tarpon popu- have been assessed for the IUCN Red lations appear most stable in regions List of Threatened Species™. Of the supporting economically-valuable 17 known species, two are classified destination and catch-and-release as Vulnerable, being at risk of extinc- fisheries. “In those areas, local tion. One species is listed as Near fishermen have a strong economic Together We Have Threatened, three have been placed incentive to support conservation, in the Least Concern category, and 11 as the economic impact of a fish the Power to are classified as Data Deficient. released numerous times during its lifespan exceeds the monetary value Protect the Ocean! The results show that the situation is of its protein by several orders of particularly serious for Pacific Bone- magnitude. People around the world depend fishes. Three of the 17 species are in on a healthy, clean ocean in the Vulnerable or Near Threatened order to survive and thrive. World IUCN Red List Categories. These Oceans Day is the official UN-des- include: Tarpon (Megalops atlanti- ignated international day of ocean cus), Vulnerable; Roundjaw Bonefish celebration. On June 8th each year, (Albula glossodonta), Vulnerable; and we celebrate the ocean, its impor- Bonefish (A. vulpes), Near Threatened. tance in our lives, and how we can protect it. “This is the first time that fishery scientists, fish ecologists, and con- WorldOceansDay.org aims to help servationists have come together to you make a difference in your life, jointly produce an assessment of the community, and world by taking threats facing these recreationally action to protect our ocean – for and economically important coastal present and future generations. fishes,” says Dr Aaron Adams, Ex- Despite the huge challenges fac- ecutive Director of the Bonefish and © Aaron Adams ing the world’s ocean, by working Tarpon Trust, and lead author of the Tarpon (Megalops atlanticus). together we can achieve a healthy paper. Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) ocean that provides for the billions has long championed research and of humans, plants and animals conservation of bonefish, tarpon, and which depend on it every day. their habitats as a means to protect healthy fisheries, restore fisher- The two-year theme for 2013 ies that have declined, and ensure and 2014 is together we have the healthy fisheries for the future. BTT is power to protect the ocean! pleased that IUCN hosted the expert group to conduct this global review, For the next two years we ask you which will greatly assist research and to celebrate the ocean and strive conservation efforts, and bring these to protect it. Connect with your species the attention they deserve. family, friends, community, and the entire planet on World Oceans © Aaron Adams Day to take action and create the Juvenile tarpon habitat. future you want.

To find out more: To find out more: www.worldoceansday.org www.iucnredlist.org WAZA news 2/13 Recent Updates 25

Gerald Dick – WAZA Executive Office Highlights of » First European Elephant CITES CoP 16 Management 3–14 March 2013, Bangkok School in After a very long meeting, with a focus and labeling, persons accompanying on procedural issues in the beginning, transports, loading and unloading of Hamburg finally decisions were taken which are animals, and measures to be taken also relevant for the zoo and aquarium during transport. Course: 11th–19th November 2013 community. Whereas the discus- sion on the so called purpose codes The “Technical Specifications” deal Since eleven years (founded Nov. (defining the purpose of transaction by with identified taxa that require 2003) Elephant Business (Escondi- codes like “zoo” or as it was proposed transport conditions additional to do, USA) and Hagenbecks Tier- for “commercial reasons, including or deviating from those found in the park (Hamburg, Germany) offer captive breeding” or “non-commercial IATA Live Animals Regulations that annually a unique comprehensive purposes including conservation”) was become the basic standard for all course on elephant management. postponed until the next CoP, some modes of transport. The curriculum covers the major- highlights are summarized below. ity aspects of elephant manage- With this, ways of transporting ment and elephant care, from animals via non-air transport means husbandry and health care, to Urine & Faeces are defined and, guidance is provided, transport, training, reproduction thus improving legal certainty. and conservation. Due to the Urine, faeces and white ambergris large interest we have decided to (that has been naturally excreted by offer this course again in Novem- a sperm whale) are not considered as 3 March: World Wildlife Day ber 2013. This is the eleventh year parts or derivatives of a CITES species of the school and each year it has and are therefore not covered by the The recommendation which was been highly successful. provisions of the Convention. presented at the conference now Protected contact as well as free declares 3 March, the date of the contact management techniques adoption of CITES, of each year as and procedures will be trained (e.g. Transport of Live Animals World Wildlife Day. foot trimming, health care, transport, management techniques). Parties to CITES are urged to use the The School is held in a nine days IATA guidelines for International Air Sharks and Rays session. The course is recommend- Transport or, in the case of non-air listed under CITES ed for all people responsible for el- transport, the CITES Guidelines for the ephants in a zoo environment. i.e.: Non-Air Transport of Live Wild Animals The Parties confirmed a decision keepers, zoo curator, veterinarians, and Plants which were accepted made by one of the Conference’s and other professionals with an at the CoP 16 as document CoP 16 Committees earlier in the confer- interest in elephant care, conser- Com II.12 ence to include five commercially vation and management. Please valuable shark species in Appendix mark, that the number of partici- While all requirements for the ship- II. The oceanic whitetip (Carcharhinus pants is limited to 15 students! ment of plants are considered to longimanus), scalloped hammerhead • Location: Tierpark Hagenbeck be covered by the Perishable Cargo (Sphyrma lewini), great hammerhead Hamburg, Germany (practical Regulations of the International Air shark (Sphyrna mokarran), smooth courses) and Lindners Parkhotel Transport Association, the document hammerhead shark (Sphyrna zigaena) Hagenbeck Hamburg, Germany presented at CoP16 widely deals with and the porbeagle shark (Lamna (theoretical lessons) the transport of live wild animals and nasus) are harvested in huge numbers • Language: English (on special consists of three parts. for their valuable fins and, in some request we are also able to offer cases, meat. From now onwards, they the course in other languages) Following a short introduction on will have to be traded with CITES CITES and the transport of live speci- permits and evidence will have to Contact: [email protected] mens, a “General Conditions” sec- be provided that they are harvested tion contains guidance on planning sustainably and legally. These listings To find out more: obligations for the transport of live mark a milestone in the involvement www.elephant-management.com animals, means of transport, marking of CITES in marine species. 26 Recent Updates WAZA news 2/13

The proposal to include manta ray species (Manta spp.) in Appendix II was adopted. Manta rays are slow- growing, large-bodied migratory animals with small, highly fragmented populations. They have among the lowest reproductive rates of any marine animals, with females giving © Gerald Dick, WAZA birth to only one pup every two to Manta rays in Georgia Aquarium. three years, making them extremely vulnerable to overexploitation. Most Appendix I and Appendix II known populations are small in size, although there is an exceptional Appendix I lists species that are the Appendix II lists species that are not population of one species in the most endangered among CITES-list- necessarily now threatened with Maldives, estimated at 5,000 or more. ed animals and plants (see Article II, extinction but that may become so Manta gill plates fetch high prices paragraph 1 of the Convention). They unless trade is closely controlled. It in international markets and have are threatened with extinction and also includes so-called “look-alike been traded in significant numbers in CITES prohibits international trade species”, i.e. species of which the recent years. in specimens of these species except specimens in trade look like those of when the purpose of the import is species listed for conservation rea- Transfer of freshwater sawfish (Pristis not commercial (see Article III), for sons (see Article II, paragraph 2 of the microdon) from Appendix II to Ap- instance for scientific research. In Convention). International trade in pendix I was introduced by Australia these exceptional cases, trade may specimens of Appendix-II species may and accepted by consensus. It felt take place provided it is authorized by be authorized by the granting of an that, despite a zero export quota the granting of both an import permit export permit or re-export certificate. since June 2011, the Appendix-I listing and an export permit (or re-export No import permit is necessary for would reinforce its domestic export certificate).Article VII of the Conven- these species under CITES (although ban and send a message to traders tion provides for a number of exemp- a permit is needed in some countries who might harvest the species in an- tions to this general prohibition. that have taken stricter measures ticipation of trade. Australia acknowl- than CITES requires). Permits or cer- edged the support of other range tificates should only be granted if the States for the proposal and noted relevant authorities are satisfied that that the proposal was supported by certain conditions are met, above all the Secretariat, the FAO Expert Panel that trade will not be detrimental to and TRAFFIC. To find out more: the survival of the species in the wild. www.cites.org (See Article IV of the Convention). WAZA news 2/13 Recent Updates | New WAZA Projects 27

James Musinguzi – UWEC Markus Gusset – WAZA Executive Office CITES in Action: Update on 32 Parrots Returned International to UWEC Studbooks

At least 32 African grey parrots said to Finding habitat There are currently 127 active inter- have been seized in Eastern Europe national studbooks (ISBs), including in a botched pet trade deal, were re- Mr Musinguzi said following the 161 species or sub-species (10 ISBs turned to a natural habitat in Uganda seizure, Sofia Zoo in Bulgaria had cover more than one taxon). The at the weekend. been assigned temporary custody of following events regarding ISBs have the birds before a judge’s decision on occurred since 1 October 2012: The endangered bird species is re- their suitable destination. He added garded by experts as one of the most that having successfully rehabilitated intelligent birds in the world. Authori- and released 204 African Grey Parrots ISBs archived ties at the Uganda Wildlife Education confiscated at the Ugandan border in • None. Centre (Uwec) were delighted to January 2011, UWEC was contacted receive the parrots, which originally to receive the birds by the World ISBs established numbered 108, many of them hav- Parrot Trust, a body spearheading the • On 20 March 2013, CPM approved ing succumbed to bad weather and translocation. He said after the sur- the establishment of an ISB for poor packaging. The birds are said to vey, Ngamba Island, home to various the black-crested mangabey have been seized at Sofia Airport in wild parrots, was found to be a suit- (Lophocebus aterrimus), kept by Bulgaria from Lebanon en route to able habitat.“All the birds are in good Tjerk ter Meulen (GaiaZoo Kerkrade, a consignee in Serbia. “This is the first health save for one that had shade The Netherlands). time African Grey Parrots confiscated off its feathers – a sign of malnutri- outside Africa are returned to one of tion,” said Mr Musinguzi. “We have Transfer of ISBs to new their range countries for rehabilita- kept them in a quarantine aviary for keepers tion,” the Uwec executive director, monitoring and inspection for 30 days • On 18 February 2013, CPM approved Mr James Musinguzi, said. and will release them after.” the transfer of the muskox (Ovibos moschatus) ISB to Mikkel Stelvig (Copenhagen Zoo, Denmark). • On 20 February 2013, CPM approved the transfer of the Diana monkey (Cercopithecus diana) ISB to Donald © Alexander Sliwa Gow (Edinburgh Zoo, UK). Grey parrot. • On 7 March 2013, CPM approved the transfer of the okapi (Okapia johnstoni) ISB to Sander Hofman (Royal Zoological Society of Antwerp, Belgium).

Transfer of ISBs to new institutions • None.

Pending issues • As of 31 March 2013, ISBs for the Rodrigues fruit bat (Pteropus rodricensis), Asian lion (Panthera leo persica), Edwards’ pheasant (Lophura edwardsi), Vietnamese pheasant (Lophura hatinhensis), Mauritius pink pigeon (Columba mayeri) and aye-aye (Daubentonia madagascariensis) are vacant. 28 Recent Updates | New WAZA Projects WAZA news 2/13

Samantha Ward – South Lakes Wild Animal Park, Cumbria, UK

Sumatran Tiger Trust WAZA Project 12013 Conservation Program

The Sumatran Tiger Trust (STT) is a charity managed and run by South © Sumatran Tiger Trust Lakes Wild Animal Park, with all Motion sensor camera being fitted at administration and additional costs Bukit Tigapuluh National Park. being supported by the animal park to ensure 100% of donations go to Suma- Male Sumatran tiger at Way Kambas National Park. tra to help the tigers. The STT contrib- © Sumatran Tiger Trust utes over £50,000 per year towards the Sumatran Tiger Trust Conservation Program (STTCP) and has provided funding for the last 16 years. The STTCP now works within two national parks in Sumatra; Bukit Tigapuluh Na- tional Park and Way Kambas National Park. The STT funds anti-poaching teams across the two national parks where the wages, training, uniforms, food, vehicles and anything else needed to patrol the difficult terrain is paid for to ensure the safety of the The STTCP not only facilitates the informing them of the problems that animals and forest. Even though the Sumatran ecosystem but contributes tigers face and what they can do to parks are “protected” areas, unfortu- towards helping the local commu- reduce this, involving topics such as nately the presence of illegal loggers, nities. Funding was provided and recycling and checking products for camping sites and poaching evidence teams helped to build schools and we sustainable palm oil use. Once the (e.g. snares) is all too common and the continually pay for teachers enabling crowds are suitably enthused about teams have to deal with some very children access to national qualifica- saving the tigers, Alisha, Padang and difficult situations. tions as well as learn about sustain- Kadi are released from their dens for able living and the troubles their the spectacular feeding up 6 m poles. The teams also maintain and relocate local tiger population face. The STT On a summer’s day, after a talk and motion sensor camera traps. These also funds for the provision of much feeding, STT donation buckets have cameras are able to capture photo- needed health care within areas that raised up to £600! The tigers at the graphs and video footage of the di- are in excess of 60 km from a hospi- animal park, however, are not only verse range of fauna that are endemic tal or doctors. In one month alone, utilised to raise public awareness. to the island and are used to track 123 people were treated and seen to They have also been able to test the tiger populations and collect other with preventable illnesses such as tu- suitability of GPS tracking collars to vital information. Due to the long- berculosis, lung infections, nutritional be used on tigers in Sumatra and for term monitoring at one of the national issues and tooth disease. research into developing positive hus- parks (Way Kambas), it is known that bandry practices within captivity. there are over 45 species of animals On a local basis, South Lakes Wild living there, including the Sumatran Animal Park is strongly involved The PKHS and STT work towards rhinoceros that we work alongside with the Sumatran tiger EEP and is a greater future for the people, the the International Rhino Foundation to home to a breeding pair of Sumatran animals and the habitat of Sumatra, protect and monitor. Where possible, tigers (Alisha and Padang), with the none of which would be possible the STTCP works towards field re- successful birth of their first cub in without the support of many mem- search and has more recently contrib- 2009. Alisha, Padang and Kadi are bers of the public and Bioparc Doué la uted to a number of studies, including ambassadors for their species and Fontaine for making contributions of a publication on the population status for the work that the STTCP does in both time and money for this hugely of the Sumatran tiger throughout Sumatra. On a daily basis, the animal important cause. Sumatra along with supporting a PhD park comes to a stand still for the study dedicated to cat abundance and tiger talk and feeding. A high impact- activity budgets within the forest. ing, passionate and educational talk is given to the members of the public, WAZA news 2/13 Recent Updates | New WAZA Projects 29

Edwin Mole – Bristol Zoo Gardens, UK

The Bristol Community WAZA Project 12014 Plant Collection

Bristol Zoo Gardens, with the support of Botanic Gardens Conservation International, have set up a new exciting project that tackles plant conservation with the help of nine community groups from around the city.

Most gardeners have heard of Plant Heritage’s National Plant Collections, but what is not obvious is that certain groups of plants are under-represented in the National Plant Collections © Bristol Zoo Gardens scheme. One such group is hardy Chard Court annuals; they create a number of 50+ Accommodation challenges due to cross-pollination if Complex and their they are grown together and the per- Calendula “experiment”. ception that they are “easy” by those considering creating collections. The result is that despite containing some of the most exciting plants that grow © Bristol Zoo Gardens in a UK garden, they are neglected Training session for when compared to perennials in Stoke Bishop Primary terms of their presence in conser- School Eco-Club. vation collections. By making this project a dispersed collection, these challenges are easier to manage. Calendula, commonly known as a pot Very quickly a number of groups A dispersed collection is a botanical marigold, was chosen for this trial either were approached or found out collection of plants that are man- as it is well known as both a popular about the project and asked if they aged centrally but that are grown on garden flower and also for its medici- could be involved. These groups have a number of different sites. nal value. Bristol Zoo Gardens wanted grown 30 plants for a display in the to grow a mixture of species (to zoo in summer 2012 and keep plants support the Global Strategy for Plant on site to harvest the seed later in the Conservation) and varieties. Although year. All the groups have been pro- there are a huge number of varieties vided with training from Bristol Zoo …by involving available commercially, only two spe- Gardens staff, growing equipment, cies of the plant are available. Since information packs and site visits to community the start of the project, Calendula give advice and support throughout species seed from the Botanic Garden the spring and summer. groups a greater attached to Bayreuth University in Germany and six species from the US The project appears to be the first understanding Department of Agriculture research of its kind because it is a dispersed department have been received and collection and also engaging commu- of Calendula and grown for the project, bringing the nity groups to be part of the growing total to eight. process. It is hoped that by involving plants in general community groups a greater understanding of Calendula and plants in will be gained… general will be gained. And, most im- portantly, that individuals and groups can take a very active part in plant conservation right here in Bristol. 30 Recent Updates | New WAZA Projects WAZA news 2/13

Guillermo Cubillos Torres – National Zoological Gardens, Santiago, Chile

Humboldt Penguin WAZA Project 12015 Conservation Strategies

According to the Penguin Manage- There are two main reproductive ment and Conservation Plan, the peaks for Humboldt penguins. The Humboldt penguin (Spheniscus hum- first runs from August to January boldti) is considered to be Vulnerable (spring) and the second between and it is listed on CITES Appendix 1. April and June (autumn). The latter is In Chile, the Humboldt penguin is also usually affected by rains that flood considered Vulnerable. In Peru, the nests and cause fleeing of the birds. species is listed as Close to Extinction. This was described in 1996 and 1997, The Humboldt penguin population where respectively 86% and 94% of has been declining in the last three active nests were abandoned. In 1999, decades; currently, the population 47% of the nests were deserted continues to decline. This is due to for the same reasons. Hence, the several factors, including low repro- second reproductive peak is regularly duction, high mortality, individuals jeopardised resulting in low reproduc- trapped in fishing nets and high mor- tive output. A similar situation was tality due to El Niño events. reported for Cachagua Island, 90 km north of Pájaro Island, suggesting One of the nesting sites for this spe- that this is a general effect for nesting cies in the central region of Chile is sites in Chile. Algarrobo Island, situated west to the bay of Algarrobo, 150 km from Punta Natural pressures such as oceano- del Fraile. The main characteristic of graphic and climate factors affect this island is its marine bird diversity, reproductive success. Additionally, given that it is a nesting and resting human factors like faeces extraction site for several species, among them (“guano”), accidental fishing and Humboldt penguin, kelp gull (Larus pollution pose further threats to the dominicanus) and Peruvian pelican penguin populations. Therefore, the (Pelecanus thagus). For central Chile it aim of this project is to establish has been described that reproduction a captive breeding colony based on can be heavily affected by oceano- eggs collected from the wild, spe- graphic (EI Niño) and climate (rain) cifically Algarrobo Island, using the factors, thus influencing reproductive autumn reproductive peak, which success. we know has a high natural mortality rate. In this way, we want to make a contribution to the genetic conservation of this threatened species, as well as improving knowledge about © National Zoological Gardens of Chile their reproduction. Panel providing information about the project.

…The Humboldt penguin population has been declining in the last three decades; This is due to several factors… WAZA news 2/13 Recent Updates | New WAZA Projects 31

Christer Larsson – Nordens Ark, Hunnebostrand, Sweden

Restocking of the Lesser WAZA Project 12016 » White-fronted Goose in Sweden

The lesser white-fronted goose routes, especially in Eastern Europe The restocking attempts were tem- (Anser erythropus) (LWfG) is a globally and in the regions along the Black porarily stopped in 2000 due to the threatened species and is presently and Caspian seas, is considered to be discovery of greater white-fronted the most endangered breeding bird the main cause of decline. goose (Anser albifrons) genes in some in the Nordic countries. It is classified of the birds in the breeding popula- as Vulnerable by IUCN and listed as The LWfG Project was launched in the tion. All contaminated geese in the Critically Endangered in all three Nor- 1970s by the Swedish Association for two main breeding facilities, the dic countries. The global population Hunting and Wildlife Management, Swedish Association for Hunting and has rapidly declined since the 1950s the Swedish Environmental Protec- Wildlife Management station Öster and it is estimated that there are only tion Agency and WWF. Between 1981 Malma and Nordens Ark, were there- around 20,000–33,000 individuals and1999 the project released 348 fore phased out from the breeding left in the wild. In Fennoscandia the young birds in Swedish Lapland. The programme. It was decided not to population has undergone a severe captive-bred birds were released capture or remove the already rein- historical decline and today it only together with barnacle geese (Branta troduced birds since the frequency of occurs in restricted breeding sites in leucopsis) that served as foster par- A. albifrons alleles in the reintroduced the most northern parts. The Nor- ents. The LWfG adopted the migra- population was relatively low and wegian population scarcely exceeds tion routes of their foster parents to since they also carried genes from the 30 pairs and no breeding has been the wintering grounds in the Neth- indigenous population. The restock- observed in Finland for several years. erlands. The reintroduced stock thus ing attempts were to continue but In Sweden, the population consists of uses a migration route that excludes now using only pure LWfG of known ca. 100 birds descending partly from countries with high hunting pressures. origin. reintroduced birds in the 1980s and The method was very successful and 1990s. Hunting along its migration resulted in a small population approaching 100 birds in Sweden.

Attaching tracking device to a lesser white-fronted goose. © Christer Larsson 32 Recent Updates | New WAZA Projects WAZA news 2/13

WAZA Executive Office

» WAZA Executive Office Contacts • Executive Director: [email protected] • PA/Office management/accounting: [email protected] or [email protected] • Marketing/Communication: [email protected] • Conservation/International Studbooks: [email protected] • Decade on Biodiversity © Tom Svensson project manager: Lesser white-fronted goose. [email protected]

In 2006 the project restarted using Breeding results under the new a breeding population founded from founders have been encouraging. WAZA Council LWfG captured as juveniles in the The first goslings were hatched in western parts of the Russian tundra. 2008 and until 2012, a total of 86 Elections 2013 In order not to jeopardise the wild goslings have been bred and reared Russian population, not more than by their parents. 52 individuals have This year is again a year of Council two chicks were allowed to be taken been used for restocking purposes elections. This time the elections will from each brood. After a veterinary in the northern parts of Sweden and be carried out by electronic vote. This examination at Moscow Zoo, the Norway. The goal is to strengthen the saves time and money and secures goslings are transported to a new small fragments of LWfG still living that everybody has the opportunity breeding facility established at in northern Scandinavia and improve to vote in time. The ballot will be sent Nordens Ark. To secure the survival the diversity of the wild stock. out as a link (sent automatically by of the valuable new founder popula- simplyvoting.com, mentioning WAZA tion, a second backup population will The breeding and restocking project Council elections) to our main contact also be established at Öster Malma. is part of the Swedish Action Plan in the WAZA membership directory. The facility in Nordens Ark has room for the conservation of the spe- for about 15 breeding pairs as well as cies, which also includes monitoring, • The date of sending out the infor- unpaired and sub-adult birds. predation control and awareness mation will be the 13th May and the campaigns. It is implemented by Nor- ballot will be open till 13th June. In 2010 the restocking of captive- dens Ark, the Swedish Environmental • Please make sure that you check bred birds in Lapland was resumed. Protection Agency, County Admin- the correct e-mail account of your Only goslings produced from the new istrative Board and the Swedish organisation (as mentioned in the wild-caught birds are now used for Association for Hunting and Wildlife WAZA Membership Directory) and restocking purposes and the geese Management. Nordens Ark’s part of also check your spam folder after are released without foster par- the project is funded by the Swedish the date of sending. There is only ents. Instead a new release method Environmental Protection Agency, one mail per member and only the is used where captive-bred geese Hasselblad Foundation and Fonda- one e-mail address is allowed to are imprinted on wild counterparts tion Segré. take a vote. and follow them on their migration • The ballot will contain all the candi- routes. The release takes place in dates and a short bio per candidate. mid-July when the captive-bred birds are transferred to the release site in the Swedish mountains. The release site is located in proximity to nesting Errata grounds of wild LWfG. Prior to the release the goslings are kept in small WAZA News 1/13, enclosures to acclimatise to their new page 30 both photos © Zoo de environment. All birds are individually Servion; page 31, photo caption: marked with metal and colour rings Indian Gazelle (Gazelle bennetti) for future identification. also called Chinkara WAZA news 2/13 Recent Updates 33

WAZA Membership as of 30th April 2013

Associations 24 Institutions 273 Affiliates 15 Corporates 16 Life and Honorary members 110

68th WAZA Annual Conference and Technical Congress 2013 will take place at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, USA, New WAZA Members 13–17 October 2013. • Zoo de Servion | Switzerland | Early Bird Registration is open until 31 May. Please do not miss it! Please fol- as institutional member low the link via the 2013 button on the homepage of www.waza.org. • Mysore Zoo | India | Accommodation can be directly booked at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club: as institutional member http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/beach-club-resort/. • Kristiansand Dyrepark | Norway | A special room rate of $225 has been negotiated, please mention as institutional member “WAZA Conference” when booking. Rooms will only be held until 13 September so PLEASE book before then, as rooms may then be unavailable. New Directors The registration website will include additional information and FAQs. Specific information about theme parks, dining, nightlife, golf, recreation • Rolf Veenhuizen has replaced and guest programs can be obtained on www.disneyconventionears.com. Pep Xarles as President of ICZ (International Congress of The overall theme is ONE World, ONE Plan, ONE Hope Zookeepers) as of September 2012 • Dr Jeong-Rae Rho replaced Contributions are especially sought for the following topics: Dr Eui-Won Mo as director of • Linking ex situ and in situ approaches to species management Seoul Zoo (Republic of Korea) • Global conservation planning – linking intensively managed and • Arne Lawrenz replaced less intensively managed populations Ulrich Schürer at Wuppertal Zoo • Zoo and aquarium roles in in situ conservation, including (Germany) as of 1 March 2013 in situ conservation education • Tom Stalf has been named • Collection sustainability President & CEO of the Columbus • Telling the story of “One World, One Plan, One Hope:” Zoo and Aquarium (USA) innovative interpretation • Kirsten Pullen replaced • Interdisciplinary approaches to animal care, Miranda Stevenson as CEO management and welfare of BIAZA (UK) • Chris Hibbard replaced This year, based on last year’s conference feedback, the technical Martin Phillips as executive congress will consist of fewer papers, will feature presentations clearly director of ZAA (Zoo and Aquarium relating to the theme, and will focus on submissions that are broad in scope, Association Australasia), Australia rather than case studies. The application form is available at www.waza.org as of April 2013 on the home page. Please make sure that the application provides sufficient • Tshepang Makganye has replaced details regarding the proposed content of the presentation! Louise Gordon as interim CEO of Johannesburg Zoo (South Africa) Deadline for submission: 31 May 2013. • Sergey Popov and Natalia Kolobova replaced Vladimir Spitsin as director and CEO respectively at Moscow Zoo (Russia) Future WAZA Conference Venues • 2013 Disney’s Animal Kingdom, USA (13–17 Oct 2013) • 2014 New Delhi, India (2–6 Nov 2014 – New Date!) • 2015 Al Ain, United Arab Emirates (11–15 Oct 2015) • 2016 Africam Safari, Puebla, Mexico (9–13 Oct 2016) • 2017 Barcelona, Spain (15–19 Oct 2017) 34 Recent Updates | Membership WAZA news 2/13

Recent Updates

Membership Application Nominated as institutional member

Aquário de São Paulo, Brazil

• Sponsors: Yara Barros (Foz Tropicana Parque das Aves) and Juan Pablo Guaita (Jardin Zoologico de la Cuidad de Buenos Aires) • Founded: 2006 • Area: 8,000 m2 • Collection: Mammals: 9 species and 27 specimens Birds: 2 species and 15 specimens Reptiles: 19 species and 48 specimens Amphibians: 4 species and 7 specimens Fishes: 238 species and 2,539 specimens Invertebrates: 50 species and © Aquário de São Paulo 241 specimens Entrance of the Aquarium. • Staff: 120 permanent, 4 (interns) temporary • Visitors: 450,000 paying, free entrance 50,000 • Owned by: Private person, profit • Director: Anael Fahel • Members: SZB (Brazilian Society of Zoos and Aquariums), SPZ (Paulista Society of Zoos), SHAPE of Enrichment –Shape Brazil © Aquário de São Paulo Amazone wing. • Address: Aquário de São Paulo, Rua Huet Bacelar, 407, Sao Paulo 04271000, Brazil

Considered the largest aquarium of Throughout our exhibits it is possible Aquário de São Paulo aims to be South America, with its 8,000 m² and to learn about different habitats and recognized as a reference in the field with more than 3 million litters of wa- species. With more than 3,000 ani- of environmental education, conser- ter, the Aquário de São Paulo offers mals and 300 species divided in three vation, research in nutrition, clinical, a great variety of attractions. different sections (Freshwater, Ma- animal behaviour and as an institu- rine Animals and Mammals and Birds) tion that promotes animal welfare our visitors are welcome to have through pioneer actions including a unique experience. development innovative designs of enclosures and development of new Our main goals are Environmental husbandry practices. education, animal welfare and conservation, providing in situ and ex situ conservation.

To find out more: www.aquariodesaopaulo.com.br WAZA news 2/13 Recent Updates | Membership 35

Recent Updates

Membership Application Nominated as institutional member

Flamingo Land, UK

• Sponsors: David Field (ZSL London) and Mark Pilgrim (Chester Zoo) • Founded: 1959 • Area: 150 ha • Collection: Mammals: 43 species – 86 males,127 females and 116 specimens of unknown sex Birds: 37 species – 110 males, 118 females and 87 specimens of unknown sex Reptiles: 10 species – 14 males, 11 females and 8 specimens of unknown sex Amphibians: 7 species – 17 males, 11 females and 19 specimens of unknown sex Fishes: 21 species – 392 specimens of unknown sex Invertebrates: 2 species – 1 female and 9 specimens of unknown sex © Flamingo Land Zoo troopers. • Staff: 79 permanent, 300 temporary • Visitors: 1,192,000 paying, 7,510 free entrance • Owned by: Private limited company, profit Flamingo Land is a theme park and Association for British Wild Animal • Director: Mr. Gordon Gibb zoo committed to educating the Keepers, our Collection Manager • Member of: BIAZA, EAZA, BALPPA, public on biodiversity conservation is Co-chair of the BIAZA Flamingo David Bellamy Conservation Award and supporting conservation causes. Specialist Group, and one of our Zoo Scheme, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, Flamingo Land’s Udzungwa Forest Keepers is the International Studbook Ryedale Biodiversity Action Project in Tanzania aims to better Keeper for white rhinos and another Partnership conserve tropical forests, and was is the European Studbook Keeper • Address: Flamingo Land, recipient of the 2011 BIAZA Award for for hammerkop. Around 20% of the Kirby Misperton, North Yorkshire the Best Field Conservation Project. animal species at Flamingo Land are YO17 6UX, UK A David Bellamy Gold Award was also on the European Endangered Spe- presented in 2010 and 2011, for recog- cies Program. With nearly 1.4 million nition of Flamingo Land’s Biodiversity visitors in 2012, it is currently the UK’s Action Plan (the first of its kind by fourth most visited tourist attraction a zoo) and for CIRCLE (Centre for the (of those with an entrance fee), and Integration of Research, Conservation the UK’s most visited zoo. and Learning; a partnership with the University of York). Our Director of Conservation Science is a member of the BIAZA Field Program Committee, our Zoo Manager is Chairman of the

To find out more: www.flamingoland.co.uk 36 Recent Updates | Membership WAZA news 2/13

Recent Updates

Membership Application Nominated as institutional member

Tulsa Zoo, USA

• Sponsors: Mark Reed (Sedgwick County Zoo) and Jeffrey Bonner (Saint Louis Zoo) • Founded: 1927 • Area: 82 acres (33,2 ha) • Collection: Mammals: 69 species and 313 specimens Birds: 77 species and 237 specimens Reptiles: 93 species and 244 specimens Amphibians: 24 species and 180 specimens Fishes: 195 species and 126 specimens Invertebrates: 114 species and 761 specimens • Staff: 114 permanent, 40 temporary • Visitors: 371,183 paying and © Tulsa Zoo 271,357 free entrance Chimp at Tulsa Zoo. • Owned by: Tulsa Zoo Management Inc. operates zoo for the City of Tulsa through a contractual agreement • Director: Terrie Correll • Member: Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), ISIS • Address: 6421 E. 36th Street North, © Tulsa Zoo Tulsa, OK, USA Green tree monitor.

The Tulsa Zoo was established in 1927 The zoo has a diverse collection of new white rhino, snow leopard and as a municipal facility and is located species that focuses on the Americas, Malayan tiger exhibits first to be com- on 82 park-like acres within Mohawk Asia and Africa. In March, 2012 Helm- pleted in the next five years. The Tulsa Park, one of the largest municipal erich Sea Lion Cove opened featuring Zoo participates in numerous Species parks in the United States. In 2011 the a naturalistic habitat with underwater Survival Plans (SSPs). Of special note, non-profit organization, Tulsa Zoo viewing for zoo guests. The Robert are the successful long-term breeding Management Inc. began operation of J. LaFortune WildLIFE Trek, a four- programs for Aldabra tortoise and the zoo under a long term contract building complex spotlighting animal Diana monkey. with the city of Tulsa, which still owns adaptations from the cold to the the zoo. The Zoo is the largest daily desert to life in the water will open attraction within the region. The Tulsa in March 2013. A new 20 year master Zoo reaches over 55,000 children plan has been implemented with annually through field trips, informal classes and outreach programs. To find out more: www.tulsazoo.org WAZA news 2/13

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ISSN: 1662-7733