QUARTERLY PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION OF ZOOS AND AQUARIA

SUMMERZ 2014oo quariAISSUE 86 DEADLY DANGER WORRYING FUTURES FOR EUROPE’S VULTURES

A tall story HOW THE ONE PLAN APPROACH CAN HELP THE WORLD’S GIRAFFES 1 1 Building bridges CREATING NEW RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN EAZA AND THE IUCN

Contents Zooquaria Summer 2014

16 14 24

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4 From the Director’s chair 16 Endangered animals The importance of the ‘Non-regression Principle’ How the diclofenac threat has reached the vultures of Europe, plus how the One Plan 5 Announcements Approach can help the giraffes of the world A round-up of news from EAZA 20 EAZA matters 8 Births and hatchings Global cooperation between TAG Chairs creates A selection of important new arrivals from new ideas across the collections 21 Exhibit design 10 Chairman’s view An exciting new Arctic display Towards a stronger, more unified future 22 Breeding programmes 11 Campaigns Galagos, pink pigeons and cloud rats all come How LED lighting can help combat climate under the spotlight change 26 Wildlife protection 12 IUCN special The battle to save Endangered wildlife The Red List, the Asian Species Action in Vietnam Partnership, and a look at the way EAZA and the IUCN can work closer together 28 Wildlife health How to reconstruct a hornbill’s bill, and a report on Warsaw’s veterinary conference

Zooquaria EDITORIAL BOARD: EAZA Executive Office, PO Box 20164, 1000 HD Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Executive Director Lesley Dickie ([email protected]) Email: [email protected] ISSN 2210-3392 Managing Editor David Williams-Mitchell ([email protected]) Cover image: Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus) © B Berthemy Editor Malcolm Tait ([email protected]) For information on print subscriptions to Zooquaria visit: http://tinyurl.com/zooquaria. Editorial Staff Danny de Man, William van Lint The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of EAZA. Designer Louise Tait Printed using vegetable inks on paper containing 50% recycled waste and 50% Zooquaria is the quarterly magazine of the sustainably sourced virgin fibre; bleached using an Elemental Chlorine Free process. European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA). Printed by Drukkerij Valkenstadt 3 FROM THE DIRECTOR’S CHAIR

Have you heard of the ‘Non-regression Principle’? It basically this document, a document that had been developed in full states that once a progressive law is put in place then that law consultation with members and unanimously approved by should not be repealed, ‘requiring norms which have already been Council, the elected governing body of EAZA. There are other adopted by states may not be revised in ways which would imply going policies and statements that fall within this purview and short- backwards on the previous standards of protection’. It has more term self-interest should not undermine what are good and commonly been applied to human rights laws but more recently progressive policies. Indeed if EAZA is to continue to advance as is gaining considerable traction in application of environmental the most progressive zoo and aquarium association in the world law. then we have to guard against such developments. It’s a principle that is under onslaught. More and more we It will take bravery and good sense. I think we have that in the see previously progressive environmental agreements (both association in abundance, so roll on non-regression. national and international) either repealed by nations or more commonly undermined and blocked or simply not applied. The environment and conservation of nature are slipping down the political agenda, and the recent EU Parliamentary elections were a case in point. Unless you were reading the manifesto of an avowedly ‘green’ party, then it would appear that the mainstream parties and groups seemed to be unaware that there is a crisis Dr Lesley Dickie unfolding around us and it’s not the economic one. Executive Director, EAZA In 2011 there was a clear demonstration of regression when the Canadian government denounced the Kyoto Principle during the Conference of the Parties of the Climate Change Convention. In my own country (United Kingdom) the outgoing head of the Environment Agency – yes, the Environment Agency whose job is to secure our environment for people and wildlife for all time, not just current short-term economic gain – has said that he thinks fracking for shale gas should be allowed in the National Parks of England and Wales. Let’s look at the two statutory aims for national parks in England and Wales; • to conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the area, and • to promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the park’s special qualities by the public. How on earth can fracking, or indeed the drilling, that is already taking place in some parks, in any way contribute to the statutory aims detailed above? The IUCN Commission on Environmental Law has formed a ‘Non-regression Principle Knowledge Forum’ to gather evidence of regression in environmental laws both nationally and internationally and also to find ways to take action to promote non-regression. We await their findings with interest. It also strikes me that the ‘Non- regression Principle’ is something we should inform our visitors about wherever there are appropriate opportunities. But it also strikes me that the non-regression of progressive policies and statements is something that we as zoo and aquarium associations should be aware of and counteract. In 2013 we developed a recessive alleles policy, a progressive and forward-thinking document that should be the subject of non-regression. And yet, recently, I saw in correspondence a 4 zoo association member of EAZA attempting to undermine ANNOUNCEMENTS

NOTICEBOARD

EAZA ANNUAL CONFERENCE THE EAZA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2014, hosted by Budapest Zoo and scheduled for 22-27 Sept, is still open for registration. With the conference programme now finalised, EAZA is confident that the event will prove to be the biggest and most comprehensive yet. With delegates from all over the world coming to take part, this year’s annual conference is set to build upon the success of the Joint TAGs meeting held this June, as AB Aqua Medic GmbH (www.aqua-medic.de) well as introduce keynote speakers and plenary sessions on subjects from conservation AQUA-TEKNIK A/S (www.aqua-teknik.com) to veterinary issues. To register, please visit www.eaza2014.com. Conference delegates Base Structures Ltd (www.basestructures.com) and other EAZA members are also invited to display relevant posters at the Conference. Billings Productions (www.billingsproductions.com) Please submit your proposal (with a maximum of three posters per member institution), Brogaarden (www.brogaarden.eu) including the title, author affiliations, abstract and, if available, PDF version to mirko. CelsiusPro AG (www.celsiuspro.com) [email protected]. The poster submission deadline is 31 August. Claxitalia (www.claxitalia.com) Doublecheck Oy (www.doublezoo.com) Dowman Soft Touch (www.dowman.com) EKIPA (www.ekipa.nl) Fachjan Project Plants (www.fachjan.nl) HMJ Design (www.hmj-design.dk) Instituto Bioclon (www.bioclon.com.mx) Jardine Lloyd Thompson Leisure (www.jltgroup.com) Kiezebrink International (www.kiezebrink.eu) Mapcards (www.mapcards.net) Marchegay Technologies (www.marchegay.com) Marine Nutrition (www.marinenutrition.com) Mazuri Zoo Foods (www.mazuri.eu) Pangea Rocks (www.pangea.dk) pricetag (www.pricetag.nl) Ralf Nature (www.ralfnature.com) Rasbach Architekten (www.rasbacharchitekten.de) Ravensden Plc (www.ravensden.co.uk) ray hole architects (www.rayhole-architects.com) St. Laurent (www.st-laurent.fr) Triumph Gate Ltd (www.triumphgate.org) Wildlife Trading Company (www.wctnm.com) THE FATHER OF ZOOLOGICAL MEDICINE Zoolife s.l (www.zoologicaladviser.com) ZOOPROFIS (www.zooprofis.de) ZOO VETERINARIANS WORLDWIDE ARE 60 countries. ZooTrend (www.zootrend.com) mourning the loss of Dr Murray E Fowler, The founder and charter diplomate of Zoos Online Services (www.zoos.pro) writes Jacques Kaandorp. He died aged 85 the American College of Zoological on 18 May about 10 days after a severe Medicine, he edited eight editions of the stroke. He was the true founder and ‘bible’ for zoo veterinarians: Fowler’s Zoo Veterinarians (AAZV) and was also a father of exotic animal medicine, and and Wild Animal Medicine. The last member of the European Association of was widely regarded for his teaching and edition (2015) made it to print just before Zoo and Wild Animal Veterinarians clinical practice and training of he died and is now on sale (Elsevier). In (EAZWV) since its origin in 1995, and a veterinarians around the globe. this last book the 82 chapters include regular visitor of its conferences. For me, Dr Fowler was the author or editor of authors from 15 countries on six one never-to-be-forgotten experience at least 27 books and more than 250 continents. He knew them all and all of was sharing a round table with him at the academic papers. After he finished his them knew him and admired him. 2013 Vienna conference on medical study in 1955 he went into private Dr Fowler developed the first teaching failures and complications. He was open practice, and in 1958 he was appointed courses on captive and free-ranging wild and kind to everyone, he answered as equine surgeon in the faculty of animals and he established the first questions without delay, and he California Veterinary School at Davis residency programme in zoological remembered and appreciated European and was connected to the Sacramento medicine in 1974. His books on camelids, zoo veterinarians and students who Zoo for more than 46 years. He officially elephants and restraint and anesthesia would come over to the US for the annual retired from UC Davis in 1991 as of wild animals are, even today, leading AAZV conferences. Professor Emeritus, but continued to books in zoo and wild animal medicine. Dr Fowler is an Honorary Member of train students and professionals at the He was a member and Past President of EAZWV and received many awards in the

JACQUES JAANDORP JACQUES conferences he attended in more than the American Association of Zoo veterinary field. We will miss him. 5 ANNOUNCEMENTS

NOTICEBOARD

DIRECTORS DAYS 2014 AND THE MEMBERSHIP & ETHICS COMMITTEE

This year’s Directors Days were hosted by NEW FULL MEMBERS EAP SCREENINGS: FULL MEMBERSHIP Bioparc Doué la Fontaine at Saumur in Zoo de Guyane, French Guyana, France; Highland Wildlife Park, UK; Paignton Zoo, the Loire Valley. The theme Kattegatcentret, Denmark UK; Chester Zoo, UK; Aalborg Zoo, ‘Communicating Character’ was covered Denmark; Zoobotanico de Jerez, Spain; by a wide range of speakers including NEW TEMPORARY MEMBERS 1 YEAR Jardim Zoologico de Lisboa, Portugal; communications experts, EAZA member Parc des Mamelles, Guadeloupe, France; Tierwelt Herberstein, Austria (reinstated directors and others. For a fuller Nordsoen Oceanarium, Denmark from temporary membership) summary of the outcomes of the meeting, please see the Chairman’s EXTENDED TEMPORARY DENIED Report on page 10. Prior to the Directors MEMBERSHIP WITH ONE MORE YEAR Maubeuge zoo, France (following a meeting, the Membership and Ethics Parc des Pyrenees, France; Parco two-year temporary membership period) Committee also met to discuss Faunistico Le Cornelle, Italy recommendations on membership, including:

6 BIDDLE B. NOTICEBOARD

BEST PRACTICE FOR EAZA CONSERVATION FORUM 2014, LEIPZIG, GERMANY BLACK RHINO From 6-9 May 2014 the biannual EAZA Conservation Forum was hosted by Leipzig Zoo in EAZA BEST PRACTICE GUIDELINES Germany. The theme was ‘One Species, One Plan’ – exploring the One Plan Approach in a are produced by the various TAGs to zoo and aquarium context. The Forum was preceded by a highly successful one-day merge expert husbandry knowledge EAZA Academy seminar on integrating social and emotional aspects into conservation and make it widely available within programmes. 100% of participants stated that they would recommend this training and and outside the borders of the EAZA found the discussions, case studies and practical activities engaging and beneficial to community. The EAZA Best Practice their varied conservation work. Guidelines for black rhino, which During the Forum a range of inspiring keynote presentations were given. The One Plan were produced by Mark Pilgrim and Approach for conservation was introduced by Onnie Byers (CBSG) as a method which Rebecca Biddle (Chester Zoo) from integrates species conservation planning of both in situ and ex situ populations, the EAZA Rhino TAG, are the first to be enhancing global collaboration and communication, accelerating the evolution of approved by the EEP committee for species conservation planning tools, and contributing to the achievement of the Aichi publication according to the newly Biodiversity Targets. Steve Burns (Zoo Boise) explained the philosophy behind his established procedure. They can be successful initiative to introduce a Conservation Fee for his visitors, Piero Genovesi (Chair found by going to the EAZA website IUCN SSC, Invasive Species Specialist Group) talked about the patterns, threats of and and navigating to EAZA Activities > responses to invasive alien species in Europe and the role zoos and aquariums can play in Collection Planning > Best Practice mitigation. Mark R Stanley Price (Chair IUCN SSC Sub-Committee for Species Conservation Guidelines. Planning) introduced participants to the revised ‘IUCN Guidelines for Reintroductions The guidelines show best practice and other Conservation Translocations’ and how to responsibly implement these standards, which EAZA zoos aim to guidelines. Around 80 people from both the in situ and ex situ world participated. This achieve. They are of particular interest provided a great exchange of knowledge, many interesting presentations and workshops when building new enclosures, when on varying topics. These ranged from examples of successful One Plan Approach projects deciding upon the nutrition of inside as well as outside Europe, lessons learned, brainstorming on possibilities to join or animals or when seeking information start up such projects, the use and importance of social science and molecular biology in on the biology of the species. EAZA conservation and much more. Throughout, participants were able to enjoy the wonderful Best Practice Guidelines will, over setting of Gondwanaland and welcoming staff of Leipzig Zoo. Proceedings are available time, replace husbandry guidelines. for EAZA members on the EAZA website under News & Events > Conservation Forum > All TAGs are therefore encouraged to Proceedings. We look forward to welcoming you to the next Conservation Forum in 2016. (re-)publish their husbandry guidelines using a standard format, INTERNATIONAL ZOO EDUCATORS CONFERENCE 2014 available in the EAZA Population Management Manual. It provides The 22nd Biennial Conference of International Zoo Educators will be hosted by Ocean clear guidance on the procedure of Park Hong Kong on 2-6 September 2014. publishing and suggestions on The International Zoo Educators Association (IZE) is dedicated to the improvement of structure and chapters. education programmes at members’ facilities, provision of access to the latest thinking, Questions? Please contact the techniques, and information in conservation education and the support of excellence in EAZA Executive Office; we are happy animal care and welfare. to assist. The conference in 2012 at Chester Zoo, UK was attended by 161 delegates, representing 34 countries. It proved an excellent forum to share knowledge of current and future DIRECTORS DAYS 2014 AND THE MEMBERSHIP & ETHICS COMMITTEE educational trends, as well as network with colleagues from around the world. It is anticipated that the 2014 conference will be equally as successful. The theme of this NEW CORPORATE MEMBERS conference will be ‘Education Success – what does it look like and how do you measure it?’ Carl Stahl, Germany: Carl Stahl Architektur The conference is preceded by a workshop (1-2 September) on Community Based offers innovative solutions in the fields of rope Social Marketing. This interactive workshop is given by Dr Doug McKenzie-Mohr, the and lifting equipment, architecture, author of ‘Fostering Sustainable Behaviour: An Introduction to Community-Based Social TechnoCables and personal protective Marketing’. Dr McKenzie-Mohr has worked internationally with a diverse array of equipment against falls. Wildtex, Netherlands: governmental and non-governmental agencies, assisting them in identifying the barriers Merchandising specialists for zoos with to behaviour change and in developing and evaluating community-based social products including apparel, plush toys and marketing initiatives to overcome these barriers. This topic is becoming more and more other high quality products. Zoologistics, relevant to the educational work of zoos and aquariums, and the workshop will be an Netherlands: Zoologistics is an airfreight-agent excellent way to learn more about how to apply it in your institution. that takes professional care of the import and Registration for the conference costs HK$ 3,900 (around €370). This includes breaks, export of (zoo) animals. Zoologistics has good lunches, welcome reception, two conference dinners, conference materials and various relations with the airlines and the border social events. There is a separate fee for the pre-conference workshop. More information inspection and converts your business logistical about the programme and how to register can be found at http://www.oceanpark.com. wishes into a custom made solution. hk/ize2014/en/. 7 ANNOUNCEMENTS

BIRTHS AND HATCHINGS AGE IS NOT AN OBSTACLE BIRDS OF PARADISE are among the world’s most known and famous bird species due to the often colourful and very exceptional plumage of the males, writes Anne Hoppmann. Weltvogelpark Walsrode keeps various species of these famous birds, and one of the larger ones is the twelve-wired bird of paradise (Seleucidis melanoleuca) which inhabits rain and swampy forests in the lowlands of New Guinea and the western Papuan Islands. In 2008 Walsrode received a male called Van Dyke, from Bronx Zoo in New York, and as the bird is now 30 years old, it had been thought that he would no longer be viable for breeding purposes. Not so! Despite his age, since September 2012, a total of seven chicks have been successfully hand-reared. Our female made a nest by herself out of coconut fibres, twigs and leaves in her enclosure in our rainforest hall. The pair is housed in a large aviary, but the male was always very interested in the nest and the female, and he destroyed the first eggs that were laid. After that, all future eggs were transferred to an artificial incubator. The eggs were exchanged with dummy eggs, so that the female could continue incubation. Meanwhile the real egg was artificially incubated at 37.4 °C and a humidity of 55 % until it hatched. Candling the egg after approximately one week can quickly reveal if the egg is fertilised or not, and this procedure was used on all the eggs that were laid. After hatching all the nestlings were transferred into the care of the keepers, the vet and the biologist of Weltvogelpark. They were placed into a steel bowl padded with paper towels, an anti-slide-mat, coconut fibres or wood wool and housed in a closed and heated rearing machine. Weltvogelpark Walsrode is very proud to have successfully reared twelve-wired birds of paradise. As it turns out, we have been very lucky with our chicks – four males and three females! We are now looking forward to seeing the young birds grow up and to caring for them until they are sexually mature at the age of four to six years.

CROCODILE SMILES

IN LATE 2007 a pair of Philippine crocodiles (Crocodylus and leave the female in the larger side. mindorensis) arrived at ZSL London Zoo, writes Iri Gill, Deputy A week later the female had constructed a nest. A few months Team Leader Herpetology Department, ZSL. They were prone to later her behaviour changed, and she became extremely be aggressive towards each other, but in mid-2013 they were aggressive towards keepers. This is when the nest was checked housed alongside one another with a mesh divide separating and eggs were identified – 13 were removed, of which seven them. During this time there was a lot of interest and interactions showed clear banding. through the mesh from both animals. A few months later the The eggs were incubated at 30°C in vermiculite media. A few female was introduced to the male, in his larger enclosure, and weeks after the typical longitudinal cracking was seen on the multiple matings were observed. After around an hour, the eggs, they were uncovered to maximise oxygen transfer to the aggression began once more, so the female was returned to her developing embryos. Six animals hatched, the first ‘pipping’ at smaller enclosure. the end of June, indicating that the eggs were laid around early She was provided with nesting materials, comprising coir, April, based on an incubation period of around 85 days. dried leaves, bark chip and grass cuttings. After a few days she The six juveniles ranged in weight from 37g to 48g, with the began to dig and move around the substrate, but no actual nest last two to hatch being the lightest. Their total lengths were all was constructed. During the next few months no obvious 24cm. At present, their diet consists of a variety of terrestrial nesting or maternal behaviour was observed. In early 2014, invertebrates, live river shrimp and small pieces of fish. Food is however, there was again a lot of interaction between offered four times a week with a different item being the two animals, through the mesh, and they offered at each feed. These young crocodiles are were reintroduced. As previously, several still very shy feeders and prefer to feed late matings were observed only this time afternoon or evening. there was no aggressive behaviour ZSL is delighted to be breeding this witnessed and they both went to rare crocodilian and contributing to opposite sides of the enclosure. As the the EAZA ESB programme. Through larger part of the enclosure had a this success we aim to raise the profile more suitable nesting area, it was of the species and its plight for survival decided to remove the male this time in the Philippines. 8 HOPPMAN A I.GILL; BIRTHS AND HATCHINGS

LESSER FLAMINGO SUCCESS IN 2004, WE STARTED TO BUILD a group of lesser flamingos for Leipzig Zoo’s African savannah and, after a while, totalled more than 70 birds with a more-or-less even sex ratio, writes Ruben Holland. The birds were housed outside in summer and inside in winter. A big problem with the group was that there were never more than two eggs laid per season and only once was a chick hatched in the incubator and successfully hand-reared. All breeding behaviour was always during the summer when the birds had a mud island to build their nests. In winter 2013/14, therefore, we brought mud into our inside enclosure, put mirror foil on the windows, brought more light into the stable and minimised disturbance, all calculated to encourage breeding. The success was awesome! More than 40 eggs were laid and one chick was parent- reared in this time period. When the group went into the outdoor enclosure again we collected the last eggs and brought them to the incubator. Two of these eggs were fertile but failed to hatch. A chick hatched from a third egg but died after two days. Now we have to think about why there were only two chicks hatched from more than 40 eggs. Are most of the eggs infertile or did the fetuses die in the eggs? Overall, I think we are on the right track and we did a lot right to create an efficient breeding situation. Next year we will try some small changes to increase the hatching rate and, all going well, get more chicks. For now, however, it has been a great success rearing our first chick since 2008.

THE WHITE DIRECTION

THE ENDANGERED WHITE-WINGED WOOD DUCK (Asarcornis scutulata) from Southeast Asia had an ESB created for them in 2013 which is coordinated by William van Lint in the EAZA office. At Bristol Zoo, two pairs of birds were brought in from WWT Slimbridge in 2011 and 2013 and housed in two different aviaries. Pair one is mixed with black hornbill (Anthracoceros malayanus) and pied imperial pigeons (Ducula bicolor), while pair two is mixed within the rainbow lorikeet (Trichoglossus moluccanus) feeding aviary. In 2014 both pairs laid clutches of of ten and four eggs respectively. At the ten-egg clutch the keepers were able to candle the eggs to determine fertility and found all ten were fertile. From this clutch half were left with the female and half were removed to the incubator. Both pairs successfully hatched ducklings with pair one hatching four and pair two hatching four, but at the time of writing rearing two. Two of the incubated eggs hatched, and the young are being reared with a clutch of marbled teal ducklings. Once thought to be common throughout Southeast Asia, the species is now in serious decline with estimates of only approximately 1,000 individuals remaining in the wild, mainly due to habitat destruction, degradation, disturbance, opportunistic hunting and egg collecting. N.SIMPSON; R HOLLAND R N.SIMPSON; 9 CHAIRMAN’S VIEW Forward thinking EAZA DIRECTORS DAYS 2014 SHOWED HOW WE ARE MOVING TOWARDS A STRONGER, MORE UNIFIED FUTURE

Simon Tonge, Chairman, EAZA

The annual Directors Days meeting, committee for communications. The this year hosted by BioParc Doué La new committee, which is in the early Fontaine in the heart of the Loire stages of constitution, will have as valley in France, was the first meeting its mission the creation of a strategy of EAZA directors since the media to help the public understand why storm surrounding the euthanasia we have to do what we do, from of a young giraffe and four lions at the principle of keeping animals in Copenhagen Zoo. With a broad human care to the difficult decisions range of opinion surrounding the we need to take in order to keep our issue, and cultural differences across populations physically, genetically the Association’s network, there was and psychologically healthy. This prudent to once again ask the national considerable concern in the Executive should also make comparisons with associations to review the document, Committee that the meeting would the management of animals in the which has been available on the expose and deepen rifts within the wild, where culling is sometimes public pages of the EAZA website membership, and could have serious necessary to ensure healthy long- since 2011. Any changes proposed by consequences for our future. term populations. We also need to the associations will be reviewed at The meeting was intended to allow ensure that the public understand the annual conference in September, all of these points of view to be heard, that animals rights groups’ opposition and we trust that the process will discussed and mediated, with a focus to such management will ultimately lead to increased member and public on moving past recriminations towards imperil not only ex situ populations, confidence in the policy and the a concrete plan of action. Excellent but will hamper conservation in the tools needed for maintaining healthy speakers including some of our most wild. The committee will review populations. active and distinguished members, as EAZA’s mission statement to make As the Association moves forward, well as communications experts and sure that, from the very start, we will I believe that we now have a strong welfare scientists, laid out the basis communicate our raison d’être and mandate from the directors: a mandate for EAZA’s response to the worldwide maintain the transparency we need to unite our members behind sound media attention, and invited open in order to continue to build public scientific principles of conservation, and frank discussion of management support for good zoos and aquariums education and research; a mandate euthanasia as a policy, and the way we across Europe and the world. The to continue to inform the public respond to criticism from the public. committee will also work to agree a and include them in our thinking It was heartening to see all 100 communications framework that takes and decision-making; and finally a or so directors, while facing such account of different cultures, and will mandate to act as the discussion forum a challenge for the Association, include members from right across our for some of the most challenging engaging positively and calmly, network. and controversial issues we face. If agreeing to disagree where necessary, The directors also agreed to the we do not face such discussions then but aiming without hesitation towards creation of a formal committee for the animal rights activists will hamper our a solution which would leave EAZA national associations. The associations ability to do the work mandated to stronger. While some criticism was have long been an integral part of us under Article 9 of the Convention leveled at Copenhagen and EAZA for EAZA’s decision-making process, on Biological Diversity. If we don’t do the response to the crisis, it became and the new committee will ensure this work, then who will? clear during mediated discussions that, that we have a full range of opinion I urge all of us to continue to in principle, directors supported the from across the continent. Its first work in the spirit established by the use of euthanasia for the management order of business is to review EAZA’s dedicated and passionate leaders who of populations. The primary concern euthanasia policy, adopted by Council attended Directors Days 2014, towards then, was not that Copenhagen had in 2011, to ensure that all members a stronger, more unified Association; decided to cull the young giraffe, can accept its terms and the language an Association that uses its highly but that cultural sensitivities, from it employs. The statement was capable head but is not afraid to speak all perspectives, should have been developed over three years (2008- from the heart; and an Association respected, and that a framework for 2011), went through many revisions that consistently and clearly better communication was needed. and had previously been seen by all demonstrates that we exist because of To fulfil both of these needs, EAZA countries before being unanimously the love we all hold for nature and the 10 proposed the re-establishment of a voted in at Council, but it was felt animals in our zoos and aquariums. CAMPAIGNS

LED from Pole to Pole WITH 140 MILLION VISITORS A YEAR AND A STRONG COMMITMENT TO EDUCATION, EAZA ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS ARE PERFECT SHOWCASES FOR INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES SUCH AS LED LIGHTING, WHICH CAN HELP COMBAT CLIMATE CHANGE

Joeke Nijboer, Rotterdam Zoo

European zoos and aquariums are ROTTERDAM ZOO’S LIFE taking on a new role in the fight against CORAL TANK climate change by becoming pilot sites for energy-saving solutions. Pioneer zoos and aquariums around Europe have been installing LED lighting recently with several aims: saving energy, reducing costs, improving the visitor experience and raising awareness of energy-saving technologies. Switching to LED lighting technology can help cut energy consumption expended on lighting by 70% – and in institutions such as zoos and aquariums, this adds up to considerable savings in emissions. ABOUT LED Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are semiconductor devices that emit light when an THE ILLUMINATE PROJECT electric current passes through them. Initially used to produce a red indicator light Rotterdam Zoo has already been such as in electronic devices, LEDs are now available in a wide range of colours running several programmes to save and light intensities. They can be found in traffic lights, automotive brake lights energy (Solar Photovoltaic panels for and headlights, Christmas lights, flashlights and cell phone screens, to name a instance) and took the opportunity few. More importantly, they are increasingly being used for lighting in homes and provided by a pan-European project businesses. LED bulbs, in addition to being energy-efficient, are also extremely called ILLUMINATE to scale up its durable: their effective life can be up to 100,000 hours. Highly robust and LED lighting installations. Joining the containing no breakable filaments, they are the most resistant of all commercially project allowed us to benefit from the available bulbs. LEDs produce very little heat unlike incandescence and halogen technical expertise and experiences lamps and have very low voltage. This lack of heat emission also makes them of 13 partners from all around Europe. highly suitable for situations where constant temperature is important.. The aim of the ILLUMINATE project is not only to install demonstration Visitors can see LED lights in the coral To raise awareness of the benefits, sites so as to save energy and test tanks, the king penguin area and the visitors are informed through a small innovative lighting solutions but also elephant house, and wherever possible exhibition and informative panels. to raise awareness about these new and needed, motion sensors control the Tests have also been carried out in the LED technologies among citizens LED lighting and help to further reduce zoo which show that the flexibility the and visitors. Besides Rotterdam Zoo, energy consumption. At the time of lights offer can also help in recreating a participating aquariums include the purchase, the material and installation better environment for the animals. Genoa Aquarium, CretAquarium and costs were seven times higher than the The project, while independently Lithuanian Sea Museum. The other original lighting system. But with the initiated, is a great demonstration of pilot sites target different user groups savings achieved the payback period new technologies for the reduction of (citizens, local authorities, politicians is three to four years and the lighting carbon emissions, and ties in effectively etc) and different types of buildings, quality is much better. with our communications relating to namely the Belfast City Council Hall in the Pole to Pole campaign. Indeed, with the United Kingdom, Experimentarium WHAT ARE THE RESULTS? the savings in energy offered by LED (the Danish Science centre in The total cost of the system (after lights, encouraging our visitors to follow Copenhagen), and the Old Quay Area the EU grant from the ILUMINATE our example and install the new bulbs in Genoa. project) was €300,000 and the new could have a material effect on emission At Rotterdam Zoo, 1,035 fluorescent lighting system saves about €40,000 a reduction in the greater Rotterdam lamps have been replaced by LED year; not just in energy consumption area, and go some way to help building lights in various areas: in technical but also in maintenance costs as the a more secure future for species being premises and staff areas but also and LED lights have a much longer lifetime affected by climate change. more importantly in public areas such than any other light. In terms of energy as restaurants and animal facilities, consumption, the zoo now uses 170,000 More information can be found at www. and 80% of the lighting in the zoo kWh a year which saves nearly 97 tons illuminateproject.eu. Results are at www. now comes from LED technologies. of carbon dioxide a year. youtube.com/user/illuminateLEDproject. 11 IUCN SPECIAL The master list HOW ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS CAN HELP CELEBRATE THE RED LIST’S 50 YEARS OF GUIDING CONSERVATION PRIORITIES

Lesley Dickie, Executive Director, EAZA

In 1964 a very straightforward idea OWSTON’S PALM CIVET (VU) came to fruition: the first IUCN Red List. The Red List identifies the most threatened species and sub-species on Earth via transparent criteria that can be measured on a regular basis. This allows us to identify the species at most risk of extinction, thereby guiding where species conservation efforts should focus. The Red List is the result of significant amounts of unseen work by Red List assessors to contribute to the production of the famous lists under the categories (see box). Major contributors to the Red List as assessors include Birdlife International, ZSL’s Institute of Zoology, the World Conservation Monitoring Centre and hundreds of volunteers via the Species Survival Commission’s Specialist Groups. To celebrate the success of the Red List a series of events is being planned including a lighting event from 15-22 RED LIST CATEGORIES November in London that we would Extinct (EX) – No known individuals remaining. Extinct in the wild (EW) – Known only to survive in captivity, or as a like to extend to colleagues across naturalised population outside its historic range. Europe. Prominent buildings across the Critically endangered (CR) – Extremely high risk of extinction in the wild. UK capital will be bathed in red light Endangered (EN) – High risk of extinction in the wild. in the evenings throughout the week to Vulnerable (VU) – High risk of endangerment in the wild. celebrate the work of the Red List. Near threatened (NT) – Likely to become endangered in the near future. What we would like to propose is Least concern (LC) – Lowest risk. Does not qualify for a more at risk category. that EAZA zoos and aquariums join Widespread and abundant taxa are included in this category. in the celebrations by lighting the Data deficient (DD) – Not enough data to make an assessment of its risk of entrance to their zoo or aquarium extinction. in red light throughout the week or Not evaluated (NE) – Has not yet been evaluated against the criteria. on an evening during that week. We When discussing the IUCN Red List, the official term ‘threatened’ is a grouping know that the Red List is essential to of three categories: Critically Endangered, Endangered, and Vulnerable. collection planning for responsible zoos and aquariums and that some on 22 November. The Biophilia Ball Well, the job never ends as the of you have contributed to Red will be a glittering affair raising funds assessments will also go on, hopefully List assessments. In addition, when for conservation. A joint collaboration with downlisting but also ensuring assessing the approximately €100 of the IUCN and Synchronicity that we know which species need our million that EAZA members spend in Earth, the ball will also feature the help. In the future there will also be a the field, the Red List plays its part in stunning artwork of Alice Shirley who counterpart, the Green List, suggested guiding this collective conservation will be painting individual masks for by the Wildlife Conservation Society spend. So, it would be fantastic to the ball featuring threatened species. and partners, which will highlight further highlight the Red List to the The ball is also the launch pad for species that are thriving parts of a general public and media by using our Synchronicity’s larger campaign, healthy ecosystem and will emphasise facilities as showcases. Biophilia. Please contact Synchronicity that conservation is about more than In addition to the lighting activities Earth (www.synchronicityearth.org) for just preventing extinction. We look there will be a prestigious dinner taking further details. forward to the future of both the Red place at the Natural History Museum And what next for the Red List? List and the Green list. 1212 LEE C IUCN SPECIAL

JUVENILE TOMISTOMA AT MESANGAT

Help needed ASAP INTRODUCING THE ASIAN SPECIES ACTION PARTNERSHIP Will Duckworth, IUCN Asian Species Action Partnership

The Asian Species Action Partnership world’s great archipelagos. Island one, ever, for reptiles. Many additional (ASAP) is an interagency coalition of species, confined to small areas, often freshwater turtles warrant CR status, for organisations from the international face inherently higher extinction risks example. conservation community aimed at than do continental species. The single most shocking thing minimising the extinction risk among The ASAP species are the non- about the ASAP species list is that the most threatened non-marine marine vertebrates of Southeast Asia most of the species have neither active vertebrates of Southeast Asia. For (the members of the Association of conservation programmes, nor priority many of these species, extinctions are Southeast Asian Nations, plus Timor- within any conservation organisation. all but inevitable within the next two Leste) categorised on the IUCN Red About a third are collateral beneficiaries to three decades. The partnership was List of Threatened Species as Critically of action for less threatened but higher a response to the alarming results of Endangered (CR), the highest category public profile animals, but for almost the Global Mammal Assessment in of extinction risk. The last criterion a half, their inexorable extinction 2008, a comprehensive assessment is objective – it defines the most trajectory reflects oversight. Among of the conservation status of world’s threatened species – but the others the priorities for ASAP, therefore, is mammal species for the IUCN Red List are pragmatic boundaries to allow a to bring these species’ plight to wider of Threatened Species. This showed manageable start, rather than struggle notice and to harness more resources Southeast Asia to hold a startling with all CR species all over the world. for action in their favour. Forthcoming concentration of species on the edge of About a third of the total of the Zooquaria articles will explore the extinction. A meeting of conservation approximately 160 ASAP species are several clear directions in which organisations shortly thereafter clarified fish, and the true proportion that would EAZA is ideally positioned to take that other heavily traded groups be fish, if every species’ correct Red a lead role in this shared endeavour, containing many hunting-sensitive List category were known, would be after a discussion on this topic which species (eg large reptiles) showed similar much higher. Large parts of Southeast will take place at the Budapest annual patterns. ASAP acts as an emergency Asia lack an analysis of extinction conference. In the interim, several call to mobilise support where it is risk for fish, and even for the one of IUCN SSC’s specialist groups will urgently needed, drawing on the area comprehensively assessed – the be profiled inZooquaria . The SGs are collaborative expertise of conservation mainland north of Malaysia – over SSC’s main tool for overseeing species practitioners, pooling resources and 40% were assessed as Data Deficient, conservation, but many operate below efforts to maximise efficiency and ie had insufficient information to potential through chronic resource galvanise political will. allow categorisation. About a third shortage. Consolidation of the specialist South-east Asia has this alarming are mammals, a quarter are birds, an groups to be able to meet the ASAP concentration of highly threatened eighth reptiles, and only a handful are challenge is an essential part of the species for two reasons: (i) trade for amphibians. These figures are likely to whole programme. wildlife meat and medicinal products underestimate seriously the number has exploded over the last 10–30 years, of reptiles and amphibians due to the To find out more about how EAZA can a result of the region’s rapid economic long time since the last comprehensive work with IUCN Specialist Groups, growth; and (ii) it holds two of the assessment of the latter, and the lack of please turn the page. A. STANIEWICZ A. 13 IUCN SPECIAL Building bridges between IUCN and EAZA THERE ARE EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITIES TO DEVELOP STRONGER RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN IUCN SPECIALIST GROUPS AND ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS, TO THE BENEFIT OF ALL

Rachel Roberts, SSC Network Coordination Officer

The International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Species Survival Commission (SSC) is a volunteer network composed of over 9,000 species experts including scientists, field researchers, government officials and conservation leaders worldwide, working together to halt the decline in biodiversity and ensuring that SSC is an unmatched source of information and advice to influence conservation outcomes. Members of SSC belong to one or more of 130 Specialist Groups and aquariums and administrative, ASIAN WILD CATTLE SPECIALIST (SG), Red List Authorities (RLA) organisational and financial support to GROUP and Task Forces (TF), each focusing SSC SGs. Several zoos already either The mission of the Asian Wild Cattle on a taxonomic group (fungi, plants host SGs, or have very interactive Specialist Group (AWCSG) is the or animals), or topical issues such and dynamic relationships with them, promotion and long-term conservation as sustainable use and livelihoods, providing not only financial support to of Asian wild cattle species and their reintroduction of species, wildlife projects in situ, but often donating the habitats by means of information- health, climate change and time of veterinary and other staff. In sharing, identification of conservation conservation breeding. These groups turn, many SG members are actually priorities and facilitation/delivery constitute the main working units of curatorial and/or managerial staff of of these priority actions through SSC, providing the breadth of expertise zoological gardens or aquariums. collaborative conservation work. and commitment that drives the EAZA is actively supporting The SSC would like to approach Commission, delivers on its objectives closer linkages between its zoos and the EAZA membership with the and makes its achievements possible. aquariums and the IUCN SSC SGs, possibility of encouraging institutions Each group operates on a voluntary and is beginning to trial out a process of to become champions for the AWCSG. basis which presents an essential need identifying institutions who would agree The AWCSG seeks the following for small-scale but stable support in to serve as the ‘champions’ for several opportunities for collaboration: order to maintain the high quality SGs. It is hoped that by developing • EAZA institution staff to donate time outputs received from the SSC these relationships and building bridges to the role of a part-time Programme network. Many zoos and aquariums between in situ and ex situ conservation, Officer which could provide now make significant and wide-ranging the two approaches can become less extremely valuable help to the SG. contributions to field-based biodiversity distinct by harnessing complementary • Support of the publication of an SG conservation beyond their own facilities expertise to make for a more holistic newsletter by providing staff time and breeding programmes, and have contribution to the protection of wild to assist in the role as editor, and a great deal of expertise in population species. recognising this support by having management, veterinary medicine, We recognise that these relationships the logo of the institution on the husbandry and research, and are looking will require time to evolve and publication and contributing to the to contribute to species conservation in mature, and the precise scope of the design and content. additional, meaningful ways. collaboration and benefits will vary • Assistance with fundraising for SG The SSC believes that there is depending on the groups, their specific activities. a valuable opportunity to establish aims and constraints, access to resources • Assistance with travel costs to enable mutually beneficial relationships and availability of time. the SG Chair to attend meetings between zoos and aquariums and SGs. Obviously, the opportunities for essential for the activity of the group. These relationships will, among other doing so are greatest where there is • Assistance with the building of things, provide expertise and credibility some overlap in particular species of international partnerships in and specific opportunities to further interest. As examples of this process, we Indonesia for the in situ and ex situ engage in field conservation to zoos highlight two groups. conservation of anoa and banteng. 14 D.HULSE SAOLA: P.COLAS; MONKEY: PROBOSCIS • Assistance with supporting research and conservation in situ actions. • Contribution to ex situ conservation in range countries: following the successful studbook training for 12 studbook keepers in Indonesia it would be beneficial to have mentoring of some of these studbook keepers, by EAZA institution staff. The IUCN SSC Saola Working Group (SWG) is part of the AWCSG. Collaboration is key to the SWG’s work, and the group is currently a partnership of 20 members drawn from range government partners and conservation organisations working in the saola’s range. EAZA’s adoption of the saola for the logo of its Southeast Asia campaign made a huge impact in terms of raising the saola’s profile and educating the public of its existence. tamarin took off after the success of community and present the following as In addition to financial support from Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust ways in which this support could benefit the campaign, EAZA is supporting in repatriating a large number of the the group most. the SWG through an ‘Intensive species that were illegally taken from • The PSG produces four newsletters: Management of Saola Advisory Brazil. They comprise the founders financial assistance to support Group’, established within EAZA’s of a healthy captive population and the production of these would be Cattle and Camelid TAG. collaboration with the Durrell Wildlife gratefully received. Conservation Trust, amongst others, • The PSG is now in the process PRIMATE SPECIALIST GROUP inspired the conservation measures and of revising the IUCN Red List The IUCN SSC Primate Specialist field research in place today. assessments for the world’s primates. Group (PSG) has more than 450 Another example, still in its early It has recently completed a full members, and its overall mission is to days (begun in 2005) but showing assessment of all Madagascan maintain the current diversity of the immense promise, is a conservation primates, showing that 94% are order Primates, ensuring the survival of programme for the white-footed threatened. We are actively seeking the endangered species wherever they tamarin that occurs in a small part of partners in this time-consuming, occur. northern Colombia in the Magdalena but critical, process, especially those The PSG’s mandate includes the basin, where its forests have been who may be prepared to help host ‘establishment of conservation-oriented extensively devastated and it is hunted workshops and with associated local captive breeding programmes for for the pet trade. The Beauval Nature hosting costs. threatened taxa’, and the expertise of Conservation and Research Association • The Madagascar Section of the PSG those involved in the management of Beauval Zoo, France, initiated this has recently published a three- and husbandry of captive primates programme through the Callitrichid year strategy for the conservation is essential for programmes of rescue Taxon Advisory Group (TAG) of of the lemurs of Madagascar and and rehabilitation, reintroduction and EAZA, involving 25 EAZA zoos and is now seeking funding for its translocation, plus field research and institutions that provide funds and implementation. health studies. With more than 700 act as technical consultants, working • The IUCN SSC’s Primate Specialist million people visiting zoos each year, in direct collaboration with their Group’s Section on Small Apes their vital role in education about the Colombian counterpart, the Association (SSA) is responsible for coordinating need to save wildlife, while promoting of Colombian Zoos and Aquaria gibbon conservation activities and catalysing the required measures, is (ACOPAZOA) . The conservation globally. The SSA would benefit undisputed. programme for the Critically greatly from the donation of zoo One of the pioneer successes, coming Endangered yellow-breasted capuchin staff member time for the role of a from a close interaction between zoos was also inspired by collaboration with media officer who can help to support and an in situ conservation program, is European zoos. communications by maintaining the Golden Lion Tamarin Conservation The continued support and the group’s facebook page, create Programme begun by the National Zoo, sponsoring of collaborative in situ and and manage a website, and ensure Washington, DC, in 1983, but preceded ex situ endangered species conservation members are receiving timely updates. by, and based on, research in captivity programmes has proved to be a powerful on behaviour, physiology and husbandry. force for a number of threatened For more information on any of these The conservation programme (in situ primates. The PSG would very much activities, please contact Rachel Roberts at and ex situ) for the golden-headed lion welcome stronger links with the zoo [email protected] 15 ENDANGERED ANIMALS Dark clouds for Europe’s vultures ZOOS HAVE BEEN CRUCIAL FOR THE RECOVERY OF SEVERAL VULTURE SPECIES, BUT DICLOFENAC THREATENS TO WASH AWAY DECADES OF EFFORT AND GAINS

José Tavares, Director, Vulture Conservation Foundation (VCF)

Once upon a time, the word ‘vultures’ would evoke images of Indian landscapes or towns awash with the birds, or scenes of kettles of white-backs and lappet- faced flying around a dead animal in the vast African savannahs. Today, if you want you want to see vultures in quantity, you should come to… Europe! Indeed, Europe probably offers some of the best vulture concentrations and densities anywhere in the world. It is not rare to see 1,000 griffons flying around a carcass dump in Spain, and I have recently seen up to 60 black vultures feeding together in Turkey. Some sites in the Pyrenees regularly boast 30 bearded vultures picking up bones, and in a few areas (like the Pyrenees and Turkey) you can actually see the four European species of vulture in one day. This is because, with the exception of the Egyptian vulture, vultures in Europe are doing extremely well. On the other hand, their Asian and African cousins are facing extinction or severe decline. In the Indian subcontinent, the veterinary drug diclofenac has wiped out hundreds of millions of vultures – several species have declined abruptly (many up to 99%) – and today you can drive hours, even days, without extinction looms in Italy (8 pairs left) common sense. Europe is often regarded seeing a vulture there. The drug was and the whole of the Balkans (40-45 as a reference model for the rest of the finally banned in 2006 in a number of pairs left). This is a priority species for world – so how could a drug that has countries, but vulture populations are concerted conservation action, and a well-known, and extremely heavy only now starting to recover. the Vulture Conservation Foundaion impact on wildlife, be allowed legally, Europe, on the other hand, boasts (VCF) will certainly focus some of its when alternative, non-toxic alternatives more vultures now than at any other programme here. are available? This is a question that time in recent history, with several remains unanswered – but probably species reintroduced or recolonising NEW THREAT has to do with poor guidance on EU areas where they went extinct. However, dark clouds are in the horizon risk assessments for all non-steroid Only the Globally Endangered – not only for the Egyptian vulture anti-inflammatory drugs. There is no Egyptian vulture is bucking this but for all European species. Most obligation to conduct eco-toxicity tests, positive trend for vultures in Europe unexpectedly, the veterinary drug that and so Italian and Spanish authorities – populations across the continent caused the well- known vulture crash failed to pick up the threats to vultures mirror the global situation and in the Indian subcontinent, and that – a gross negligence that the EU can continue to decline. Only the French was banned there in 2006, has made an now correct, by starting a formal referral population (90-100 pairs) and some ugly reappearance in Europe. Veterinary (re-evaluation), that could lead to a ban regional populations in Spain are diclofenac is legally available for use in of the drug. slowly increasing, after a considerable Italy and Spain! Veterinary diclofenac causes fatal conservation effort put in place by a This fact, uncovered last year by renal failure, and is therefore highly number of conservation organisations. the VCF and a number of other toxic to vultures and eagles. A Elsewhere, the picture is bleak – conservation organsiations, defies all recent paper in Bird Conservation 16 BERTHEMY B VULTURES IN EAZA All four European vulture species are managed by the Falconiformes TAG with the Bearded Vulture EEP and European Black Vulture EEP in existence since the 1980s. Aside from maintaining a healthy safety net population in human care to raise awareness, and conduct research about their (breeding) behaviour, both programmes have provided International uncovered evidence that ban this drug. substantial numbers of juvenile steppe eagles, a close relative of golden VCF and others (including EAZA) birds for release in historic and imperial eagles, also died in India have indeed asked for this – the matter European ranges. More than 200 captive-bred bearded vultures due to this drug. Even though the is now with a scientific committee have been released over the interaction between cattle and vultures within the European Medicine Agency. years, and they form the basis is not the same in every continent, the FATRO, the Italian manufacturer of for the successful recovery of VCF suggests that risk to European the drug, has been extremely unhelpful the species in Europe. Annually vultures is indeed significant, in spite of – we have asked for a voluntary 2-3 juvenile European black all the regulations on the provision of withdrawal, but this was refused. Weak vultures have been released over livestock rests to vultures – as the drug EU regulations on Non-Steroidal the years and contributed to stays in the body of treated animals Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS) the recolonisation of parts of its for up to seven days, it is impossible to have not encouraged a change of heart former breeding range. guarantee that a treated cow or sheep at FATRO, and as a result the best The Eurasian griffon vulture will not be available to vultures in the remaining option for protecting carrion and Egyptian vulture have both been managed since 2000, extensive livestock regions in Spain, consuming raptors is to aim for an all with success for the former but where most of Europe’s vultures live. out legislative ban on Diclofenac. challenges of pedigree for the Also, vulture-feeding stations in Spain, Europe, and the rest of the world, latter; different subspecies, Italy and elsewhere use tons of animal are now waiting carefully. Whatever birds of unknown background carcasses and parts every week, often happens this decision will create a and even hybrids hamper the coming from industrial operations. precedent that could impact upon Egyptian vulture programme. With the current veterinary controls in vultures worldwide. Vultures consume However, the EEP coorodinator place, it will be impossible to trace and hundreds of thousands of carcasses from has been very active in prevent a diclofenac-treated carcass European fields every year, avoiding improving breeding results, and from being dumped there – and any costs with carcass removal. The EU has hopes to be able to provide birds additional control would cost millions invested millions in their conservation, for release in the future, given the worrying developments in and would be difficult to implement. and so have many zoos – will we allow the wild. One diclofenac-laced carcass can this work to go down the drain for a EAZA has been active in its easily kill tens of griffon vultures. handful of quick euros by one greedy support for VCF’s campaign Given that there is a safe, equally cheap company? against diclofenac, and will alternative drug available (named continue to provide support Meloxicam), and with all the strong To find out more about about the campaign until the drug has been scientific evidence available, there is against veterinary diclofenac, please visit withdrawn. really only one solution – the EU should www.4vultures.org. 17 ENDANGERED ANIMALS Going to new lengths THE AUTHORS CALL FOR A ‘ONE PLAN APPROACH’ TO GIRAFFE PROJECTS IN ZOOS AND IN THE WILD

Julian Fennessy, Giraffe Conservation Foundation/IUCN SSC Giraffe & Okapi Specialist Group ([email protected]) and Paul Rose, Sparsholt College Hampshire / University of Exeter / IUCN SSC Giraffe & Okapi Specialist Group ([email protected]) Giraffe conservation collaborations FOR MORE INFORMATION ON GCF: Website: www.giraffeconservation.org between the wild and captive Facebook: www.facebook.com/ worlds have been less of a ‘One Plan pages/Giraffe-Conservation- Approach’ and more of an ‘Unplanned Foundation/213643668667273 Approach’ to date. Whilst the in Contact: [email protected] situ and ex situ giraffe worlds have been working together on projects FOR MORE INFORMATION ON WGD: and often looking towards the same Website: www.worldgiraffeday.org ultimate goal, it has not necessarily Facebook: www.facebook.com/ been undertaken in a formalised way. worldgiraffeday The time is right to help nurture this Contact: [email protected] approach and the Giraffe Conservation WGD merchandise: www.cafepress.com/ giraffeconservation Foundation (GCF) is taking the lead to engage EAZA (and AZA) colleagues as a first step. In May 2014, EAZA held its biennial conservation forum in Leipzig, Germany, and a month later hosted a combined TAG Chair meeting in Alphen aan den Rijn, Netherlands. GCF’s Dr Julian Fennessy spoke about the future of giraffes in the wild and those held in captive collections – with the input of Paul Rose – at both meetings, with the aim of establishing closer links between in situ and ex situ worlds. This information, from two seemingly world-apart areas of giraffe biology, were brought together to sow the seeds within delegates’ minds on the feasibility of a more integrated approach to managing and conserving and the giraffe into the future. The giraffe is often termed Africa’s forgotten megafauna and despite being one of the more charismatic of herbivores, its numbers are declining in the wild. The management of captive giraffes, and especially the good management of endangered subspecies, such as the Rothschild’s giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis rothschildi), enables a strong conservation link to be built between field workers and zoo-based staff, scientists and conservation biologists. The zoo world recognises the conservation potential held in the captive population of Rothschild’s giraffe and therefore greater collaboration between the zoo world and the wild world can bring benefits in securing a future for this well-loved, but poorly understood creature. 18 GCF FENNESSY, JULIAN A key aspect of a giraffe ‘One Plan Conservation is ultimately all about for genetic health and to ensure future Approach’ is the way in which links can people, and the will that people have breeding potential remains high, be established between those in zoos to work together to preserve species information on behavioural and social and those out in the wild. The current into the future. The giraffe is one components of fitness (sociality, bonds captive giraffe population is relatively of the world’s most widely kept zoo between individuals, dispersal ages and substantial. And the large audiences animals and an instantly recognisable movements of males and females, and that zoos reach has a multitude of species to many. As of June 2014, ISIS preferred associations) that have been conservation, education, financial and (the International Species Information measured or observed in wild giraffes advocacy benefits for those attempting System) states that there are 328 zoos can be used to guide future decisions long-term conservation strategies for the worldwide holding 1,654 animals. applied to exchanges of captive giraffes giraffe. The sliding scale of management Current IUCN Red List estimates between institutions participating in suggested by the IUCN’s ‘One Plan’ for wild giraffe numbers (inclusive managed breeding initiatives. initiative that promotes an integrated of all subspecies) are outdated but a conservation planning for specific decreasing population trend according COLLABORATION species would be of great benefit to both to GCF is continuing with an Both the wild giraffe and the captive captive and wild giraffes. approximate total population of fewer giraffe population would subsequently Captive giraffes are great ambassadors than 80,000 individuals. Breaking this benefit from a ‘One Plan Approach’ for their wild cousins. Genetic purity down by subspecies, however, shows and the increased collaboration and and well-managed breeding herds an even less healthy picture, with the expertise that this brings. The endorsed enable the ‘Ark Paradigm’ of the West African giraffe (G. c. peralta) support of the EAZA EEP towards the modern zoo to be fulfilled. It has been estimated at <400 and Rothschild’s GCF as the key giraffe conservation shown with other large ungulates that giraffe at <1,100 individuals. Others partner was encouraging and a real reintroduction of populations extirpated such as the Nubian giraffe (G. c. interest to form a collaborative from native rangelands is possible, and camelopardalis) could number fewer than relationship with the IUCN SSC ultimately successful, by using captive- both of these, while the Kordofan giraffe Giraffe & Okapi Specialist Group. bred stock. Protection of the giraffe’s (G. c. antiquorum) numbers <1,900 One of the big first steps towards habitat, work with local communities individuals. The relatively substantial the collaboration was ‘World Giraffe and engagement with those that live captive population for certain subspecies Day’ (WGD) on 21 June – a new alongside wild giraffe herds enable – and some are postulating that they and exciting initiative from GCF to long-term preservation of the ecosystem may even be distinct species – therefore celebrate the longest-necked animal that the giraffe needs. Explanation of has a vital role to play in ensuring on the longest day or night (depending the threats to giraffes as well as raising that those visiting giraffes in zoos are on geography!) of the year. Not only awareness of the steep decline in the aware of the plight of their free-living is WGD a worldwide celebration of overall number of this animal left across counterparts. giraffes, but it seeks to be an annual Africa is a role that zoos, by using their The genetic diversity of giraffes in event to raise awareness and support, giraffes, can really get involved in. EEP herds and in SSP herds can be shedding light on the challenges managed with the long-term future goal giraffes face in the wild. Zoos, schools, RESEARCH CROSS-OVERS of potential reintroduction to range NGOs, governments, institutions and Research findings from wild giraffes can states and augmentation of existing conservation organisations around the be translated into a more evidence- wild herds (after the neutralisation world hosted events on and around based system of animal management and removal of current threats to these 21 June 2014 to raise awareness about for those in zoos. Information gained populations). This has been undertaken the issues that giraffes are facing. Such on activity patterns and behavioural with other threatened populations events give people a chance to show rhythms can enable improvements of large mammals such as gorillas, their support for efforts to ensure a to animal wellbeing and ultimately Amur leopard, scimitar-horned and future for the giraffe. The timing of the establishment of baseline positive Arabian oryx, and Przewalski’s horse. WGD was ‘spot-on’ as the international welfare conditions within the zoos. Movement and translocation of giraffes giraffe community came together Nutrition and dietary presentation between areas in Africa already takes to celebrate this amazing animal. of captive giraffes remain an issue. place, although sometimes with poor Significant resources were raised in the Recent developments in the use of scientific basis as to whether the range first year to help conserve giraffe in the browse, forage and species-specific state or region was originally ‘home’ to wild and with GCF leading the way, concentrate feeds have helped reduce that subspecies. It is therefore feasible next year’s plans are already underway! the occurrence of several nutritionally to intervene within managed giraffe Sharing ideas, information and linked pathologies but giraffe can populations to ensure the long-term experiences is critical and although still suffer when fed inappropriately. viability of these herds. This is needed more dialogue and more conversation Surveys of wild diet selection, before it is too late for meaningful is needed, it is hoped to be able to alongside data on time spent eating action to have a positive impact, and build a more secure and more robust and alterations in browse choice with something which, together, we must do conservation action plan for this most season, can continue to inform how before numbers continue to dwindle. enigmatic of ungulates. The future of food for zoo giraffes is manufactured, Finally, with herds in captivity giraffe is in our hands and together we prepared and presented. being subject to similar movements can help save it before it’s too late! 19 EAZA MATTERS HANDS ACROSS THE WORLD A MEETING OF THE JOINT TAG CHAIRS FROM ACROSS THE GLOBE HAS HELPED TO DEVELOP EVEN STRONGER INTERNATIONAL CONNECTIONS

David Williams-Mitchell, Danny de Man and William Van Lint, EAZA

to be overcome in order to make it a reality. The afternoon zoomed in on animal transfers, exploring the existing frameworks and listing the obstacles and solutions per taxonomic group. Discussions on day two turned to the One Plan Approach: conservation with full involvement from stakeholders both ex situ and in situ. Following a broad range of talks exploring the many angles that are important to get aligned including data management, capacity building and cooperation with IUCN SSC Specialist Groups, Kathy Traylor-Holzer from CBSG and Bengt Holst, Chair of the EEP Committee led a series of workshops on these topics.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE Long-term sustainable management PUTTING FACES TO NAMES Following the presentation of case of animal populations in human care Many of the TAG Chairs present studies illustrating success in regional has always presented a challenge, right had never met their counterparts and global cooperation the final across various areas and disciplines from the other regions, so in the session presented the findings of the within the scientific community of zoos first instance, the meeting provide afternoon’s workshops demonstrating and aquariums, including demographic the opportunity for experts to meet not only the depth of knowledge and and genetic diversity and husbandry. and share experiences with peers. experience of the TAG Chairs, but Discussions have been under way for The importance of establishing also their enthusiasm for a joined-up some time among TAGs as to the strong personal connections for approach to conservation. Feedback optimal management of populations global collection planning cannot be from the meeting has been extremely within regional associations, but over overemphasised, and the enthusiasm positive, and there is little doubt that time the need for a global approach for and dedication to the task brought to more Joint TAG Chair meetings will some taxa has become apparent. the meeting by all the delegates was follow in the future. This need created the momentum impressive. among regional associations and EAZA MID-YEAR TAG MEETINGS WAZA to call for a meeting of TAG DEVELOPING THE GLOBAL Following hot on the heels of the Chairs from across the globe to share FRAMEWORK Joint TAG Chairs Meeting were the experiences, and EAZA’s Danny de The principal challenge for all regional mid-year TAG meetings of EAZA. Man stepped in to organise the event, associations has been the long-term Participants from the joint TAG chairs the first of its kind. Held early in June sustainability of populations in human meeting were invited to take part and at Avifauna, located in Alphen aan de care. In his keynote presentation many colleagues from outside EAZA Rijn, the Joint TAG Chairs meeting EAZA Chair Simon Tonge emphasised did just that. The meetings provided was designed to provoke discussion on the need for excellent husbandry in an excellent opportunity for specialists some of the most challenging aspects ensuring sustainable populations and to get deeper into the detail of their of regional and global collection the need to investigate legislative taxon specific work. EAZA is currently planning via a series of networking blocks to efficient animal transfers. He looking at the results of a survey sent to events, presentations and workshops. also noted the real cultural differences participants of both meetings to try and Avifauna provided an ideal location between the regions that needed learn how to evolve the idea of a TAG for the roughly 140 delegates from all to be understood. In the discussion joint mid-year meeting and how often associations and facilities all over the forum that followed the talk, TAG it should be held. world. John de Hoon’s team at Avifauna Chairs worked to build a definition did a seamless job of organising the of what further cooperation would All of the presentations and a full report of conference and creating the right look like, what its priorities should the proceedings will be made available on 20 atmosphere for the talks. be, and what obstacles would need www.eaza.net over the summer. EXHIBIT DESIGN

MISSION: GREAT NORTH EXPLORER In collaboration with PBI and a French company that specialises in environmental education, the Mulhouse zoo education centre has created a game that invites young visitors and families to become Great North explorers. The aim of the game is to find evidence of climate change, understand why the musk ox is threatened by the warming of the Tundra permafrost and so on. Playing to learn and to become part of the climate plan is the main role of the game. NEW LOOK AT THE ARCTIC A NEW 10,000M² SPACE HELPS VISITORS TO UNDERSTAND THE THREATS AND THE ACTIONS THEY CAN TAKE TO LIMIT CLIMATE CHANGE AND ITS EFFECT UPON THE ARCTIC ENVIRONMENT

Brice Lefaux, Director, Mulhouse Zoo

In June 2014 the Zoological & Botanical Park of Mulhouse A UNIQUE SPACE launched its brand new Espace Grand Nord (Great North Just inside the entrance at Mulhouse Zoo, panels invite Space), the biggest area to be renovated at the zoo for the the visitors to discover the three ecosystems of the Great last 40 years. Built in 1974, the enclosure had been feeling North – tundra, taiga and ice. They then enter the immersive its age and was no longer meeting the norms of polar bear experience of a forest housing Arctic foxes and musk ox in husbandry. With the improvement of animal welfare in mind, naturalistic exhibits. Some 87 trees and 2,951 plants, mainly Mulhouse council decided to renovate the enclosure in 2008, sourced from Nordic countries, have been planted; hundreds and the zoo and community of Mulhouse drew up a plan two of tons of rocks have been imported from local suppliers for years later for a large-scale project to renovate the enclosure the musk ox enclosure, while locally sourced wooden barriers and integrate the polar bear exhibit into a bigger themed have been installed to hide the bear enclosure’s metallic space. The polar bears became the ambassadors of the city’s fence, providing a more realistic taiga environment. official climate plan, and the project was completed by the The enclosure design also encourages visitor interest with zoo, in association with city services and local companies information about global warming and sustainability placed following European husbandry guidelines for the bears, with strategically along the path. This messaging comes in the the additional aim of preserving the natural surroundings of form of interactive panels which present the natural life the site area. Project partners Polar Bears International (PBI) of the animals, eyewitness accounts (by actors) of climate offered us fantastic photos by renowned Arctic photographer change presented in adapted replica Inuit cairns, educational Daniel Cox and materials to supplement the educational props such as polar bear skulls, and panelling outlining a aspect of the exhibit. The support of the EAZA Bear TAG typical research trip of a PBI researcher. The path culminates was also essential in ensuring success. at a ‘research station’ and the polar bear exhibit, which From 2008 to 2014, €3.5 million has been spent on these features a plunge tank so that visitors can get up-close views enclosures for musk ox, polar bear and Arctic fox as well as of the bears swimming. a unique educational pathway, altogether covering an area As well as engendering public awareness and a positive of 10,000m². Since 2008, the Mulhouse zoo stall at the city’s emotional response, the enclosures are also fully functional Christmas market has raised €160,000 to help build the new for the management and breeding of animals, having been area, and the zoo would like to offer special thanks to the designed with help from EAZA specialists including Polar citizens of Mulhouse for their generosity. Moreover, a French Bear EEP coordinator Janos Szantho; in the polar bear gas company (GrDF) donated 40% of the budget needed for exhibit, the facilities feature an isolated maternity den with the education pathway. camera monitoring. 21 BREEDING PROGRAMMES Go for the galago RECENT CHANGES IN GALAGO TAXONOMY MEAN THAT WE HAVE TO LOOK AFTER OUR LESSER GALAGOS VERY CAREFULLY

Pavel Brandl, Prague Zoo

Several decades ago, we were happy with six galago species in a single genus on the African continent. Today, we have almost 20 different species in five genera. Galago systematics and taxonomy is at a similar stage as other small nocturnal primates: using not only morphology, but also behavioural ecology, bioacoustics and molecular markers we can understand the diversity of the family, and new forms are still emerging while several taxa are awaiting formal description. How has this new information influenced our breeding programmes for the ‘lesser galagos’ – the genus Galago sensu stricto – and are our populations safe from extinction? Large lesser galago colonies, GALAGO SENEGALENSIS producing dozens of offspring, had different clusters, according to their year ago, the southern lesser galagos been vanishing from our zoos in recent origin. The separation is so sharp, that were facing extinction, after the collapse decades, but the present numbers look the ESB decided to keep them as two of one of the last two breeding European good again, especially in comparison different gene pools. To support this, colonies. Only two females in breeding with the population status five years a bioacoustics study is also underway. age were left. Prague Zoo has gathered ago, when the European studbook was There is also behavioural support – the all the residual animals and exchanged founded. In 18 institutions, there are so called ‘Guinea’ line is represented by the surplus with SSP. This increased our now about 140 lesser galagos – nearly animals that mostly live only in pairs female stock and there is still hope. double the population of five years or small groups. The ‘Ghana/Togo’ Several years of preparation, research ago – and only about half a dozen line is represented by tolerant animals and discussions led to an improvement other prosimians enjoy similar or larger living in large multimale-multifemale of our galago populations. The total populations. From that angle, the lesser groups, with the very occasional fatally number almost doubled and several galago future looks bright. aggressive incident. Splitting the whole new institutions started to keep the A second look gives less cause for population into the two asymmetric species. Almost all holders should be optimism. The population is biased parts again put the problem of numbers in potential breeding situations soon, towards males with several zoos housing back on the table. While ‘Ghana/Togo’ before the end of 2014. Breeding has no females at all. In addition, the animals are quite numerous and most of restarted in Berlin Zoo and Rostock is number of institutions successfully the breeding is done using that line, the the first of the new participants to enjoy breeding galagos is rather small – the ‘Guinea’ galagos number only 32. successful reproduction. Traditional most successful facilities are Moscow, Southern lesser galagos are another holders are still continuing their work, Prague, Riga, Ostrava and Amersfoort story. They were always less numerous, and in the first three months of this zoos. Futhermore, the taxonomic status but as they were originally thought to year, Moscow Zoo witnessed the birth of of our galagos was until recently unclear, be Galago senegalensis subspecies, they no fewer than 20 young! and a high percentage of animals had were on many occasions mistakenly We are still far from the safe point, been mislabelled. mixed with the latter. After thorough but it looks as if these diminutive To solve the puzzle of our galago analysis of the studbook data it appears nocturnal acrobats from the African status, all the major lines in Europe they never bred together, as would be bush will flourish in our night houses. have been sampled for DNA. The expected by their differing taxonomic They are fantastic animals for nocturnal results are interesting – besides about a status. The only exception was an mixed exhibits – with springhares, dozen southern lesser galagos (Galago interbreeding of a captive-born Galago aardvarks and many others. But they moholi) in four institutions, the other moholi with a male of unknown status can also live also in mixed exhibits lesser galagos are true northern lesser imported from Somalia, possibly a with diurnal species – hyraxes, small galagos (Galago senegalensis). But Somali galago (Galago gallarum) – but porcupines and so on – offering an they are clearly separated into two this hybrid line has now died out. A unexpected bonus for visitors. 22 BRANDL P Back in the pink? ONCE ON THE BRINK OF EXTINCTION, THE PINK PIGEON OF MAURITIUS IS INCHING ITS WAY BACK, THANKS TO A COORDINATED BREEDING PROGRAMME

Catherine Francescon, Mauritius Pink Pigeon EEP Coordinator, Bird Keeper, Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust; David Jeggo, Head of Bird Department, Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust; Kristine Schad, Population Biologist, EAZA Executive Office

The Pink Pigeon (Nesoenas mayeri) is endemic to the island south of the island, one of which is on Ile Aux Aigrettes – an of Mauritius in the western Indian Ocean, where it was once off-shore island. The entire population is monitored daily by common. Since colonisation, Mauritius has undergone massive MWF through supplementary feeding stations, identifying habitat destruction so that only 3% of native forest remains. birds three times daily at the feeding stations, nest watches, In addition, introduced macaques, mongoose, rats and feral disease prevention and predator control. cats predate nests and adult pigeons, and invasive plants reduce the suitability of surviving forest for pigeon breeding ADDING POPULATIONS and foraging. The island also suffers periodic cyclones which The free-living population has reached 400 individuals and cause further degradation to the forest. struggles to surpass this threshold. In 2012, the seventh When Gerald Durrell first visited the island in 1976, sub-population was formed in Petrin, an area of forest close only 20 to 30 pink pigeons survived in the wild. They were to two of the other sub-populations and transfer of some confined to the remaining forested regions in the Black River birds has been seen amongst the three. This has increased Gorges, the Savanne Mountains and Bel Ombre, and by 1990 carrying capacity of the area and in the coming years, three that had declined further to a mere 10 wild individuals. further sub-populations will be formed which will give the A captive breeding programme was established in 1976 at opportunity for the population to push closer to the target the Gerald Durrell Endemic Wildlife Sanctuary in Mauritius. population size: 600 free-living pink pigeons. By 1984, sufficient birds were available for a trial release and, Further population growth is limited by introduced disease, in 1987, releases into areas of native forest began. Led by Carl in particular Trichomoniasis gallinae, which was been brought Jones, release methods have been perfected and combined in by exotic pigeons and doves. Due to the lack of suitable with other intensive management techniques provided by habitat, food shortages also persist so that free-living pigeons the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation (MWF), resulting in a rely on supplemental feeding at each site. population of free-living pink pigeons. There are currently The IUCN Red List Category therefore remains as

C. FRANCESCON C. seven sub-populations in forest fragments throughout the Endangered, though it is hoped that its status will be down- 23 BREEDING PROGRAMMES

listed to Vulnerable in the not too distant future. In 1977, the potential founders remaining in the population. The gene captive breeding programme expanded to Jersey. Offspring diversity is 88.44%. Based on current population parameters from Jersey were distributed to other institutions and in 1992 and historical population growth rate (deterministic life table the Pink Pigeon EEP was approved, then one of only 19 bird λ = 1.085), this population is projected to retain 54.1% gene EEPs. At the end of January 1992, the EEP comprised 93 diversity for at least 100 years. However, with such a short- birds, an increase of 26 over the first year. In 1982, 16 birds lived species, it may be more appropriate to look at the gene were also sent from Mauritius to the US, where a Species diversity maintained for the next 10 generations (32 years; Survival Plan (SSP) was established and grew to 90 pigeons generation length (T) = 3.2 years). With this length of time, by 1998. the population is projected to retain 74.8% gene diversity for Pink pigeons can prove challenging to breed in captivity 32 years. and institutions sometimes struggle to produce offspring at all. Problems can be overcome with the correct husbandry and a GENETIC ASSESSMENT colony of ‘foster doves’ which can aid with rearing the squabs. Faye Willman and Jim Groombridge at Kent University, UK Greater success is achieved when institutions can hold more are currently working on a molecular genetic assessment of than one pair so that there is opportunity to exchange birds the EEP population and comparison with the free-living if, as commonly encountered, birds are not compatible. population. Preliminary results indicate unique alleles found Population numbers, both here in Europe and the US, in the EEP population that are no longer found in the are not currently at their peak, and haven’t been for free-living population. Based on their final results, we will some time, so a more intensive management evaluation re-evaluate whether certain lineages should be prioritised for and strategy is currently underway. In March 2014, the reintroduction into the free-living population. Mauritius Pink Pigeon EEP held a meeting at the Durrell With such a small population, we initially need to Wildlife Conservation Trust. The EEP Coordinator, Species concentrate reproduction by holding more breeding pairs at Committee, and advisors participated in assessing the fewer institutions that agree to a five-year commitment of demographic and genetic status of the EEP population and holding three to five breeding pairs with additional backup how it relates to the free-living population in Mauritius. breeding males at either their institution or a geographically close institution. These core breeding institutions will CURRENT NUMBERS initially hold one to five breeding pairs along with a As of March, the EEP population consisted of 53 individuals foster colony for rearing eggs and squabs. However, as the (30 males, 22 females, and 1 unknown sex) at 13 institutions. population size increases, more institutions will be needed. Ten of these 53 individuals are currently at AZA (Association To grow the population to the EEP Species Committee’s of Zoos and Aquariums in North America) institutions, but recommended target size of 100 individuals in the next five will soon transfer to EAZA institutions, after AZA made the years, at a rate of 13% growth (λ = 1.13), the population tough decision to phase out this species. Two breeding groups needs to produce approximately 21 to 30 hatches per year. will remain at San Diego Wild Animal Park, who plan to To compare these projections with the past five years, the join the EEP to work in close cooperation with this ongoing annual number of hatches has ranged from 6 to 31 per year, recovery programme. so these goals may be a little high, but could be realistic with The EEP Species Committee determined that the Mauritius institutions focusing more on breeding all reproductively Pink Pigeon EEP will uphold a conservation role in EAZA by: mature females. There are currently only 20 reproductively • maintaining a demographically and genetically stable and mature females and many of them are currently not with a behaviorally competent assurance EEP population for male or need to be transferred themselves (some from AZA), reintroduction to the free-living population in Mauritius so reproduction in this first year may be low while there is • further integrating the EEP and free-living Mauritius little room for reproductive failure in the future. populations through consistent pigeon transfers to and from To fulfill the role of integrating the EEP and free-living these populations Mauritius populations, five pigeons from the EEP population • continuing and strengthening the relationship with are recommended for transfer to the Gerald Durrell Endemic Mauritius by providing institutional support, volunteers, Wildlife Sanctuary, Mauritius. The current goal is to set up research, and other expertise. For more information: http:// 10 breeding pairs in order to reintroduce offspring to the free- www.mauritian-wildlife.org/ living population with the aim of building to 600 birds. In • functioning as an ambassador and fulfilling an unique the future, pigeons will also be transferred from Mauritius to conservation education story (e.g., island species, almost the EEP population to maintain the link between these two extinct, reintroductions, etc.). populations. Due to the small size of this population, breeding for The EEP population will be re-evaluated at the next long- demographic reasons is a high priority. The EEP will increase term management plan in approximately five years. Once reproduction to meet demographic needs, while at the same the free-living Mauritius population has been determined time attempting to prioritise breeding among the most to be stable, the EEP population role and goals will also be genetically valuable animals (ie those with the lowest mean re-evaluated. kinship and from under-represented founder lineages) in The dodo and blue pigeon, both endemic to Mauritius, order to maximize the genetic potential in the population. were quickly wiped out during the colonisation of the island. The Mauritius Pink Pigeon EEP pedigree is 95% known, It seems that the pink pigeon narrowly escaped following but increases to 100% after pedigree assumptions. The EEP them into extinction and with the help of the EEP it may 24 population is descended from 19 founders with no additional have an even more secure future. Rat packs

CLOUD RATS ARE EXCELLENT FOR MIXED EXHIBITS, AND ONE SPECIES IN PARTICULAR IS CALLING OUT FOR NEW HOLDERS

Pavel Brandl, Prague Zoo Big, strikingly black-and-white more than 2kg. They are arboreal the other species are threatened on and fluffy, Northern Luzon slender- and nocturnal, and youngsters adapt various levels. We can also practise tailed cloud rats (Phloeomys pallidus) to this life by clinging firmly to their our cloud rat skills with this easiest of successfully occupy a niche in several mother’s nipples, travelling all night species to keep. Most of the European EAZA nocturnal houses. The first through dense canopies under her holders of Vulnerable Southern Luzon four animals came from Avilon Zoo, belly. As cloud rats are leaf- and bud- slender-tailed cloud rats (Phloeomys Luzon, to Prague Zoo seven years ago. eaters, they tend to be easily overfed cumingi) or Endangered Panay Growing interest in the Philippine in captivity, so the diet should be cloudrunners (Crateromys heaneyi) fauna meant that a further 16 well-balanced, avoiding sugar, and first gained their experience from specimens soon arrived, either from using as many greens and as much keeping the Northern Luzon slender- Avilon or NY Bronx zoos. Fifteen of browse as possible. Despite having tailed cloud rat. Two of them, in fact these have now bred and formed the big teeth, cloud rats are gentle giants – Prague and Pilsen zoos – actually base for the current population of and they easily kept in the mixed keep all three species. 67 cloud rats in the ESB, and almost species exhibits, including bettongs, As about two-thirds of the 100 young have been born in Europe Dorcopsis kangaroos, tree kangaroos, European animals were born in three during the past seven years. squirrels, small porcupine species, Czech zoos, the informal council for With a strategy of establishing mouse deer and, best of all, tupaias. the species is held by Prague, Jihlava as many breeding pairs as possible, The preferable types of exhibit are the and Ostrava zoos. They still have the population dynamics are very nocturnal houses, with the reversed about 40% of European rats and, as healthy, and the programme currently light regime, but cloud rats can live they are located close together, the enjoys a surplus of young animals. also in normal exhibits with other ability to make decisions and set up As relatively short-lived animals, diurnal species. new pairs for interested holders is rodent populations have to reproduce In their native land, Northern usually quick. More zoos now keep constantly to maintain and improve Luzon, the slender-tailed cloud rat them – the newest collaborators populations. In recent years, the is the only large arboreal rodent not being Chester, Paris and Moscow zoos surplus has been able to be taken up, immediately facing the threat of – but the ambition is to establish a but the productivity of the current extinction. On the other hand, in network of about 25-27 holders with season (10 offspring born so far) some local areas they are definitely a combined population of about 100 means we need to make a call for new overhunted. Despite their still specimens. holders of the species. positive conservation status, they So do contact the ESB – there’s Phloeomys cloud rats are the biggest make a fine ambassador species for the a young cloud rat just waiting to be murid rodents in the world, weighing conservation of other cloud rats, as all added to your exhibit! 25 WILDLIFE PROTECTION On the Vietnamese front line IN VIETNAM, A RAGING BATTLE IS BEING FOUGHT TO PROTECT SOME OF THE WORLD’S MOST CRITICALLY ENDANGERED WILDLIFE

Douglas Hendrie, Chief Technical Advisor, Education for Nature – Vietnam

Rapid economic growth in Vietnam As a result, ENV focuses an equal over the past 20 years has resulted in SMART APPROACH amount of attention on supporting and the emergence of a wealthy class with Recognising the opportunities strengthening enforcement agencies plenty of disposable income, and thus presented by the rise in use of and activities, which can have impact consumer demand for luxury foods smart phones in Vietnam and the ‘right here and now’. need to move with technological and traditional medicines that were No single activity in this field in advances to effectively engage the formerly beyond reach has also risen public, ENV has been working with Vietnam is quite paralleled in terms sharply, far beyond sustainable levels. developer James Campbell over of impact than the development of Vietnam’s own native species are the past nine months to create an ENV’s Wildlife Crime Unit (WCU). among these foods and medicines, application that would provide an Established in 2005, the WCU with the first major casualty being the easy and practical means for the operates a toll-free hotline, through killing of Vietnam’s last rhino in 2010. public to report crimes to ENV. which the public can report wildlife Tigers and elephants, along with the The process is simple: for crime. The initiative is aimed at recently discovered saola and a few of example, if someone observes a engaging the public and securing their the world’s most critically endangered gibbon, the user only needs to active involvement in helping protect primates, are not far behind as wild open the application, snap a photo wildlife by reporting crimes. or two, fill out a few simple fields populations are barely holding on. When crimes are reported, case describing the violation, and then Rising consumer demand in Vietnam ‘submit’ the report with the touch officers immediately respond by also threatens global populations of of a button. The information, transferring critical information to the some species; as numbers decline in along with the photos and GPS appropriate law enforcement agencies Vietnam, suppliers are pushed to source coordinates of the violation, will and then tracking each case through to animals and products from neighboring be immediately transferred to conclusion, documenting the outcome countries and beyond. ENV’s Wildlife Crime Unit. ENV and results on ENV’s Wildlife Crime The battle being fought in Vietnam can then contact the appropriate Incident Tracking System database. has gained global attention in the agencies with precise information Since 2005, more than 7,000 cases past few years, largely inspired by about the nature and location of have been handled by WCU, resulting the devastating loss of rhinos in the violation, permitting a more in the confiscation of hundreds of effective and timely response by South Africa and indications that animals ranging from bears and otters the authorities. Vietnamese consumers, along with ENV would like to thank James to gibbons, lorises, and turtles. Markets those from China, are responsible for Campbell for his dedication have been closed, and more than these losses. However, the fight is not in developing this app and IT 1,000 businesses have also voluntarily new to the passionate and young team consultant Nguyen Manh Canh met compliance requirements, such as at Education for Nature – Vietnam for his support in setting up and removing exotic meat products from (ENV) who have been working testing the application in Vietnam. restaurant menus, after ENV issued tirelessly for nearly 15 years to suppress ENV also wishes to thank the warnings after receiving reports of rising consumer demand in their Humane Society International violations. own country, and protect endangered – Australia for its support in ENV also maintains an army of wildlife in Vietnam and around the developing this important tool, volunteers, mainly in prominent which is currently available for world. urban areas in 32 provinces, that serve Android devices, and will soon ENV was founded in 2000 as be released for IOS and Windows as members of the ENV’s National Vietnam’s first nature and wildlife- mobiles. It can be downloaded at Wildlife Protection Network, helping focused organisation. ENV focuses www.envietnam.org. to monitor business establishments 100% of its efforts on the protection in their areas and ensuring their of wildlife and it has remained wildlife protection. compliance with the law. steadfastly committed to a strategy While ENV’s activities are critical Since 2008, the crime unit that incorporates three critical to the long-term protection of has evolved and now works on components; reducing consumer wildlife, social attitudes do not change investigations in support of law demand, strengthening enforcement, overnight, and reaching the tipping enforcement agencies, organising and working with decision-makers at point in broad societal awareness ‘sting’ operations involving high the central and provincial levels to may take longer than the time some priority species sales, and continually both strengthen the law and advocate species have left, given the immense developing a growing informant for sound policy decisions in relation to pressure they are currently facing. network that has provided critical ENDANGERED ANIMAL PARTS AT A MARKET IN SOUTHEAST ASIA.© D. STARIN; INSET: STAFF AT ENV

information which has lead to both traditional medicine shops in four ENV is also engaging with seizures of pangolins and other wildlife. districts of each city, the results of technological advances in terms of This work contributes the mapping and which were reported to the authorities. crime reporting; in July, ENV released profiling of major criminal networks Working with district authorities, a smart phone application which will operating in Vietnam. ENV was able to secure an overall 42% enable users to easily and quickly Perhaps the greatest achievement reduction in consumer crime over the provide photos, the GPS location, and resulting from the establishment of eight districts surveyed, with individual the other necessary details of violations ENV’s Wildlife Crime Unit has been districts ranging from 24% to 61% to ENV, enabling an efficient and the increased level of transparency reductions in violations after a four- timely response by the authorities. and accountability of authorities in month period. Currently, additional The battle to protect wildlife will not the handling of wildlife protection. consumer crime campaigns are being be won with a smart phone application Where cases were once resolved carried out in further districts in Ho or a successful consumer crime internally with little or any external Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Hue, and Da campaign, but ENV sees that the tide is visibility, ENV’s sustained focus on Nang, and several other major cities. turning. The collective efforts of many the outcome of each case, including However, the constantly increasing young Vietnamese people, working the documentation of major seizures of level of internet use in a rapidly to protect their wildlife, and sharing wildlife, punishment, and disposition of developing Vietnam has also created in Vietnam’s global responsibility for confiscated animals, has succeeded in new challenges and battlegrounds, wildlife protection, are beginning delivering a new level of transparency as online adverts for illegal wildlife to yield results. The only question to wildlife protection and increased products can now be found on remains: will the impacts arrive in time attention on wildlife crime, that has websites, forums and social media to save many of the species that are led to a steady level of improvement networks. ENV responded by initiating teetering on the edge of survival? across the board. an internet crime campaign in late Building upon ENV’s crime fighting 2013, resulting in the logging of 1,039 Find out more about ENV (English success, new campaigns to target advertisements on websites and forums language website) at www.envietnam.org. consumer crime were developed in offering wildlife. As a result, 849 of the Its latest newsletter can be found here: 2013. ENV’s consumer crime campaign links, accounting for 81% of the total, http://envietnam.org/images/Spring_2014. in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City were successfully removed. A second pdf. To donate to ENV visit http://www. involved inspections of all 2,326 phase of the internet campaign is now envietnam.org/index.php/how-you-can- restaurants, bars, pet shops, and under way. help/donate. 27 COMMUNICATIONS Don’t exit through the gift shop WHY CREATIVITY, CONNECTION TO NATURE AND INSPIRING ANIMALS ARE KEY TO MOTIVATING PEOPLE

Ralph Underhill, Public Interest Research Centre

Sometimes I think I prefer animals to people. I find it hard to muster the same level of enthusiasm for telling stories about people that I can when talking about the natural world. Ironically, this love for the natural world has actually pushed me closer to people: through my work in conservation for the RSPB and other organisations I realised that saving the things I care about would only be possible if others cared about them too. After trying to avoid them for much of my life the species I now spend most of my time researching is Homo sapiens. While working for the Public Interest Research Centre (PIRC), I have learnt a lot about human motivation. Although I love a good graph or statistic, psychological research shows that facts alone don’t motivate people. If they did, don’t you think adverts – the ultimate science in human persuasion – would have a lot more 10 TIPS FOR COMMUNICATING: graphs and a lot fewer meerkats? 1) Nature is amazing: Talk about how amazing and inspiring the natural Our rational, fact-processing mind is world is. just one constituent part of something 2) Wildlife is awe-inspiring: Use amazing pictures to highlight the beauty and far more complicated. Although many wonderful weirdness of wildlife. of us may think we are responding 3) Facts aren’t enough: If facts motivated people don’t you think adverts would to evidence, it is actually our values have a lot more graphs in them? and emotions that most influence our 4) Explain the issue: If people don’t understand the problem or how to fix it response. they won’t get involved. 5) Get active: Let people know what they can do to help. Research has shown that we all hold 6) Get creative: Encourage people to get involved in creative ways. the same underlying values and can 7) Fear can paralyse: Highlight the problems but don’t overdo the threats – therefore be motivated about the same when people feel threatened, they are less likely to take action. things; it’s just that we prioritise our 8) We can all help: It’s not about lone heroes, it’s about people pulling together values differently. We all have values to take collective action. We can’t succeed on our own and messages should that make us care more about the reflect this. natural world and values that make us 9) Nature is priceless: Putting a price on something changes how we feel think more about ourselves, and our about it (for the worse). Try to avoid the economic case for nature. surroundings are key to deciding which 10) People are nature too: Show our connection with the natural world by set of values we give priority to. showing people in the natural world. Studies have shown that our values can be engaged by what we read or impact than any words or images. or a sloth, is likely to temporarily make experience. If I read about sloths I Finally, seeing an animal in its natural us more likely to want to help these may feel more connected with nature, environment is likely to be the most animals out. engaging my values that relate to powerful: anyone who has seen any Advertisers have used this knowledge concern for the natural world. If the animal in the wild from a hedgehog to of psychology to sell products. They piece includes amazing photographs a sloth instinctively knows this to be know that they can get us to buy things then this engagement effect is likely true. When these values are engaged, by appealing to values associated with to be even stronger. Experiences are we are more motivated to act in ways our self-interest. They sell us cars not more powerful still. If I see a real sloth that align with them. This means that on their safety record or fuel efficiency in a zoo this is likely to have more the experience of seeing a hedgehog, but as status symbols. They use fun 28 UNDERHILL RALPH BY CARTOONS and excitement, to encourage us to passion for wildlife and the natural book holidays and so on. If your only world was ignited by trips with my dad objective is to sell products to a mass to the zoo. audience, this approach works well. There are massive opportunities However, conservation is not a to foster values associated with product that can be sold. The belief environmentally beneficial behaviours that we can appeal to people’s self- in this environment. Do we put interest in order to create concern as much emphasis on what people about the environment or support think about when they leave as the for conservation is misguided. While impression they get when arriving, for we might increase membership by example? First impressions certainly using special offers, free gifts with count but so do last ones. What is memberships and celebrities – the last thing a visitor experiences ultimately these are all likely to reduce when leaving after a great day out? the motivation of our members to act Is it something that makes them feel on behalf of the environment. In our inspired by the natural world or is it attempts to ‘meet people where they 6 TIPS FOR VISITOR an argument with their child about are’, we are presuming that people are EXPERIENCES whether or not the purchase of a self-interested (the research shows Get hands-on: Petting zoos and kaleidoscope is necessary? clearly that most of us are not!), and talks where kids can touch and That the gift shop provides much we are making them more likely to interact with animals is likely to needed revenue for the running of your increase their connection with stay ‘where they are’ as we are simply organisation is not in doubt but is it nature. reinforcing the values that work against possible that by seeking to maximise Give visitors opportunities to be our goals. creative: Provide opportunities for the revenue we have lost something Repeated experiments have shown visitor to express themselves. else from the experience? that experiences and communications Talk to people: Make sure there are Try and produce signage that is that appeal to self-interest simply opportunities for people to find out clear about why you have a shop and make people more self-interested. By more, don’t push membership on think about something between the using such techniques it is likely we people at every opportunity. shop and the car park that is likely to are encouraging apathy and a passive Make it accessible: Find ways to inspire people. It could be a member of membership. However, If we are to help those who can’t usually afford staff available to answer any burning face up to the immense challenge of to visit. questions about animals. It could be Measure novel outcomes: Don’t the decline in wildlife we need active signage about British wildlife to look just look at visitor numbers look at citizens. out for when you get home. It is a other indicators that reflect wider Many of the messages in our society experiences. simple step but it says something about and the media are focused on self- Don’t exit through the gift shop: what your organisation feels is most interest and wealth. Why is it that Make sure there is something to do important. the news updates us quarterly on the after the gift shop and before the Most of you reading this will already profits of supermarkets, but not on the visitor leaves. be putting a lot of this into practice. successes of our conservation effort? I have heard about and experienced a It is important that conservation lot of great work in zoos. For example I organisations provide a counter to these material, whether it is interpretation, recently heard that one aquarium uses messages and aim to inspire people. newsletters, press releases or your a metric of ‘interesting conversations’ So how can we motivate people to website. An understanding of a values with visitors as a way of recording their care like this? Getting out into nature, approach shows you that all of these effectiveness. The Common Cause advocating the wonder and beauty have the potential to have a positive or approach basically sets out scientific of the natural world and creating a negative motivational impact on the rationale for why some of the great stuff sense of community are all things that audience (see box). we already do feels right. So keep doing increase people’s motivation to act in But although incredibly important, the amazing stuff you do already and environmentally positive ways – even communication is only one thread. use these tips to make the experiences in those few who give more importance We need to bring an understanding of you offer and communications you to self-interested values (power and values into all our work. The Common produce even more status for example). Cause for Nature report also outlines effective. recommendations for several work areas WHAT DOES IT MEAN IN PRACTICE? as well as ways in which organisations For more information In the report released last year, themselves can adopt working practices about PIRC and Common Cause for Nature, we sought to strengthen their own values. Common Cause for to apply an understanding of values Zoos and aquariums are amazing Nature visit http:// to the communications and work of places for people to connect with publicinterest.org. conservation organisations. All zoos nature, especially for those with limited uk/ or email ralph@ and aquariums produce a lot of written access to the countryside. My own publicinterest.org.uk. 29 WILDLIFE HEALTH Veterinary matters TWO STORIES FROM THE WORLD OF VETERINARY WORK HORNBILL RECONSTRUCTION

Attica Zoo has been keeping and successfully breeding we tested it twice on a piece of wood, as this material dries African grey hornbills for the past six years, writes Jean- very quickly. When we were sure we could do it properly, we Jacques Lesueur, Director, Attica Zoo. In early 2013 the male hand-molded it and fitted it directly on the remaining part of from our breeding pair started showing some erosion of the the beak. For added security we filled in some gaps with super upper mandible of his beak. We attributed this to some sort glue and then coloured it the natural colour of the upper of fungus, or lack of minerals, or vitamin imbalance, and he beak. The whole procedure took no more than 45 minutes. was treated accordingly, but over the months the erosion The hornbill’s first reaction was to scrub his beak on his continued and in early April, one morning we found out that preferred perch, and after 15 minutes he was eating pinkies, most of the upper mandible had dropped off. Only two little his preferred treat. He is now using his new beak as if nothing extensions had remained on both upper sides of the beak, and had happened. of course he was unable to eat or drink. Attica would be grateful to hear of other cases of African The only solution was to try and build a replica of the upper grey hornbill mandible erosion, and would be glad to share mandible and attach it to the remaining parts. the benefits of their experience with reconstruction with For this we used thermo-plastic veterinary bandage other keepers of large-billed birds. While we are still unsure (‘Vet-Lite’) which we use as support for broken limbs. This as to the causes of the illness, the least we can say is that product comes in the form of rigid netting which is dipped with a little ingenuity, there is no reason to write off animals in hot water to shape it. Before doing this on the bird’s beak, suffering from it. VETERINARY CONFERENCE NEWS In May 2014 over 350 zoo vets and conservation of both free-ranging between EAZA and EAZWV. converged on Warsaw to attend the and captive wildlife. Conspicuous by his absence this year International Conference on Diseases This conference is always highly was Murray Fowler, former President of of Zoo and Wild Animals, writes interactive and this year was no AAZV and a member of EAZWV, who Stephanie Sanderson, Director of Science exception. Workshops were conducted died aged 85 and will be sorely missed and Education, Chester Zoo. This on anaesthesia, avian orthopaedics, by the zoo and wildlife veterinary annual conference of the European hoof trimming and reptile medicine. community (see page 5). Association of Zoo and Wildlife Facilitated discussions were held on Warsaw Zoological gardens Veterinarians, and the Leibniz Institute TB, ethics and complications. The were wonderful hosts and are to for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), annual meeting also provided an be congratulated on delivering brought together wildlife scientists and excellent opportunity to further the an excellent scientific and social veterinarians from all over the world to work of EAZWV Infectious disease, programme. We are now already share knowledge and to stimulate future TB and Veterinary Advisor groups – all planning our next meeting to be held in 30 research on the health care, diseases topics that feed into the collaboration Barcelona from 13 to 16 May 2015.