Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute and the Institute for Conservation Medicine Report for the Year 2013

A Year of Assessing Animal Health, Expanding Our Reach, Educating Youth, Researching Parasites Whether researching lemurs in the forests of In addition, we’ve included in This report also offers an update of this document another Zoo-based the list of the partners and donors Madagascar or helping youth build pollinator conservation organization— who help make our conservation gardens in urban areas, the Saint Louis Zoo’s the Institute for initiatives successful. Conservation For the list of WildCare Institute staff continued its holistic but Medicine (ICM). partners and donors focused approach to capacity building, turning Founded in who have been around troubled ecosystems and saving animals 2011 to conduct involved with the research and field WildCare Institute across the globe and in our own backyard. conservation work since its founding, on zoonotic diseases, please visit the Established in 2004, the Saint Institute relies heavily on the the ICM helps us Zoo’s website at Louis Zoo’s WildCare Institute spent expertise of Zoo Animal Health and manage diseases stlzoo.org/wildcare. its 11th year concentrating on a Animal Division staff. By studying that threaten the Thank you for looking dozen initiatives that Zoo curators the health, reproduction, nutrition conservation of over this report and have identified as and behavior of wildlife species, for your interest in critically important Zoo animals, these human public health our research and to the survival of scientists can better and ecosystem conservation work endangered species help the animals function. Its and in the future of and the education in the care of our activities are closely saving wildlife and and welfare of the conservation centers. Eric Miller, DVM, Dipl, ACAM aligned with those wild places. people living near We also understand of the 12 WildCare these animals. that the very future Institute Centers. By extending our of many of the reach beyond the animals both in Zoo’s fence to the our care and in the Sincerely, Galápagos Islands, world can only be the communities of guaranteed through Kenya or the streams collaboration with a of Missouri, the range of institutions. WildCare Institute More than 180 ensures that our zoos, universities, work at home is Jeffrey P. Bonner, Ph.D. governmental and intimately connected non-governmental Eric Miller, DVM, Dipl, ACAM, to conservation in organizations are Jeffrey P. Bonner, Ph.D. Director, WildCare Institute the wild. The WildCare our partners. Dana Brown President & CEO Saint Louis Zoo Senior Vice President, Director of Zoological Operations Saint Louis Zoo Polar Bears

Missouri Native Species

Hellbenders Pollinators American Burying Beetles Mountain vipers

Horned Guans Birds

Amphibians Orangutans Grevy’s Zebras Galápagos Birds Asian Elephants Humboldt Penguins

WildCare Institute Centers Lemurs Locations of organizations the WildCare Institute supports Camels Partula Snail Cheetahs Chimpanzees, Gorillas and Okapis Saharan Wildlife

About the Saint Louis Zoo’s WildCare Institute Launched in 2004, the WildCare Institute is committed to wildlife management and recovery, conservation science and support of the human populations that coexist with wildlife in 12 conservation hotspots around the globe, including four in Missouri. About the Saint Louis Zoo

Since its 1910 founding, the Saint Louis Zoo has been renowned for its beautiful naturalistic exhibits, its diverse Contents collection of animals and its innovative approaches to animal Center for American Burying Beetle Conservation ...... 6 management, conservation, research and education. Center for Avian Health in the Galápagos Islands...... 8 Named the nation’s #1 zoo by Zagat Survey’s U.S. Family Travel Guide in Center for Conservation of Carnivores in Africa...... 10 association with Parenting magazine, the Saint Louis Zoo annually attracts Center for Conservation in Forest Park ...... 12 3 million visitors—making it one of the most visited zoos in the nation. At the Zoo, those visitors can see Ron Goellner Center for Hellbender Conservation ...... 14 more than 19,000 wild animals— many of them rare and endangered. Center for Conservation in the Horn of Africa ...... 16 Zoo guests can enjoy a range of naturalistic exhibits featuring Center for Conservation of the Horned Guan (Pavon) in Mexico ...... 18 everything from rugged coastlines to forests. The Institute for Conservation Medicine ...... 20 Center for Conservation in Madagascar ...... 22 Center for Native Pollinator Conservation ...... 24 Center for Conservation in Punta San Juan, Peru...... 26 Saharan Wildlife Recovery Center ...... 28 Center for Conservation in Western Asia ...... 30 New Donors...... 32 Center for American Burying Beetle Conservation

the release site are suitable for long-term survival—so, finding this beetle was a major accomplishment.” He added that in 2013 Core Mission researchers also found 15 offspring of the beetle parents that the Center and its partners The Center’s mission is to had reintroduced earlier in the re-establish the burying beetle in year. “We were quite relieved Missouri through reintroductions by this because on June 5, a using some of the nearly 8,500 severe storm stalled over the captive beetles the Zoo has bred. prairie. This storm resulted in The WildCare Institute Center precipitation of 1.35 inches of for American Burying Beetle rain, dumping approximately 145 Conservation was established to million gallons of water on our continue and augment work that release site in a little over four began at the Saint Louis Zoo in hours. The good news is that we Reintroducing the American burying beetle into its native habitat is a complex 2000 and 2001, when the Zoo’s did not find many dead beetles process involving digging holes, or plugs, at specially selected sites, placing the staff had a chance encounter carcass of a quail and a pair of notched beetles in each cavity and replacing the at the site. It appears most of the with a dead bird and a related plugs—all­ to simulate a natural underground setting for the beetles. beetles abandoned their wet or beetle species. Bob Merz and flooded brood chambers but then colleagues at the Zoo started returned to reproduce when the researching burying beetles and On June 4, 2013, 604 of the The 2013 season marked a first weather was more favorable.” quickly realized the beetles rapid Saint Louis Zoo-bred endangered for any mainland area of North decline was cause for alarm. American burying beetles were America: “In 2013, we found an reintroduced to Wah’Kon-Tah over-wintering beetle – that is a Beetle On Endangered List Prairie in Southwest Missouri. beetle that survived the winter Counting beetles does matter for This was the second reintroduction as an adult,” said Center Director this insect that has been on the in two years. A third is planned and Zoological Manager for United States federal endangered for the spring and summer of Invertebrates Bob Merz. “This species list since 1989; research 2014—with pairs split into two was very encouraging because shows that the beetle has been separate placements. it shows us that conditions at disappearing across the United Bob Merz 6 Recent Accomplishments

»» A major achievement was the and managed by the Missouri carefully paired based on the Missouri Department of reintroduction of the American Department of Conservation genetics and then transported Conservation and this Center burying beetle for a second and The Nature Conservancy. 265 miles. Nearly 70 plus local nature groups. consecutive year across the »» Dozens of people worked volunteers participate; they 4,040-acre Wah’ Kon-Tah together to make the come from the United States Prairie in St. Clair and Cedar reintroduction a reality. Once Fish and Wildlife Service, counties on land jointly owned prepared, the beetles are The Nature Conservancy,

States since the early 1900s. often tunnel to nearly a foot Scientists have suggested all deep, stripping fur, scales or kinds of explanations for this feathers from the body with vanishing act, ranging from pincers and expectorating an increased light pollution that is antibacterial secretion that slows disorienting for these nocturnal decomposition by embalming the insects as they are preparing body. The female lays her eggs to breed, to pesticides causing near the preserved carcass and beetle deaths, to a changing within four days, eggs hatch into constellation of fellow scavengers larvae. Both parents feed their competing for the same offspring by eating some of the carcasses. Some experts have dead flesh and regurgitating it even suggested that the early into the larvae’s mouths. 1900s demise of the passenger “In recycling decomposing pigeon, which was the ideal components back into the carrion size for the beetles, drove environment, this beetle is a very the decline. Five Zoo-trained staff members spent a full day reintroducing the beetle through necessary part of our ecosystem,” So, evidence of reproductive a project jointly managed by this Center, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, the said Merz. “The beetle’s success is an important measure Missouri Department of Conservation and The Nature Conservancy. Here a staff contribution is very complex, but member shows volunteers the carcass of a quail that will be buried with a pair in validating the work that the of beetles in plugs. The plug sites will then be monitored for signs of breeding one noticeable impact it has is Zoo’s staff and its partners have activity by checking for larvae, and later, new adult beetles. that by removing carcasses from done over the past decade to competition, it controls save this species. fly populations.” on the population after the carcass of a bird, fish, reptile or The first reintroduction of the breeding season, they captured small mammal. Because carrion beetles in 2012 at the same site only three new adults. can be scarce, beetles sometimes in Southwest Missouri involved Breeding season can be a cross large areas; by necessity, the release of 236 beetles; a complicated business. Named they are strong fliers capable of check of a third of the brood for the practice of burying its covering several miles overnight. chambers 10 days after that food which is carrion, the burying Once they find carrion, pairs release turned up 395 larvae. beetle also breeds by burying the bury it cooperatively. Beetles However, when the team checked

7 Center for Avian Health in the Galápagos Islands

With more than a decade’s malaria—a disease that poses Saving A Living Museum experience understanding a major threat to the native bird “Here we have this highly disease threats to birds in the populations of the islands? protected Galápagos archipelago, isolated Galápagos Islands, this And which species of mosquito is which has been an icon of WildCare Center’s leadership transmitting the disease? conservation success for in 2013 became laser-focused decades,” said Dr. Patty Parker, The plasmodium parasite on a detective story that would Center Director and the E. that induces avian malaria challenge even the most Desmond Lee Endowed Professor Core Mission is the cause of one of the experienced gumshoe: in Zoological Studies at the best documented of all bird University of Missouri-St. Louis What bird species is serving extinctions—the loss of dozens of The Center’s mission is not only (UMSL). The islands’ isolated as the reservoir host for avian avian species in Hawaii. to save some of the world’s rarest location, volcanic activities and most fascinating species and tropical currents create an but also to help save captive environment that has served birds because lessons learned as a living museum and natural on the Galápagos Islands can laboratory where scientists work be used with birds in the care with park officials to protect of conservation organizations. native wildlife. Education is also core to the To save the native avian species mission. The Saint Louis Zoo has on the island, Dr. Parker is sponsored a veterinary scientist asking: “Is this parasite going to in residence at the Charles Darwin wipe out birds in the Galápagos? Station in the islands, conducting Where did it come from? How field and laboratory research with many kinds of the plasmodium colleagues there, and more than are there? We need to find the 20 UMSL graduate degrees have answers because determining been awarded to students who when and how pathogens arrive conduct research on the islands. in the Galápagos Islands is key to developing conservation strategies to prevent and mitigate the effects of introduced diseases.” UMSL graduate students and helpers work in a makeshift field tent to escape the drizzle in higher elevation field sites on the islands of Santa Cruz and Isabela. Birds are examined, notes recorded and small blood samples taken for analysis; Patty then the birds are released unharmed. Parker, Ph.D. 8 Recent Accomplishments

»» The Center is building a these threats. In 2013, Center »» The Center continues to work and continuing to aggressively stronger understanding of staff published a major article closely with the Galápagos monitor parasites and diseases the threats associated with on research from their study National Park and the to help detect, prepare for the introduction of exotic of plasmodium parasites in Charles Darwin Foundation, and ward off the effects of pathogens, like avian malaria, the Galápagos Islands and 10 communicating results of all contagion. and avipox virus on endemic other articles in the scientific research, collaborating with birds and working to minimize literature about their work. park and foundation officials

Screening Blood of One suspect is the migrating Thousands of Birds bobolink that moves between Under her direction, researchers North America and South have screened the blood of more America each year, often passing than 3,700 endemic Galápagos through the Galápagos Islands. birds representing 22 species. Researchers found evidence The malaria parasite has been of the parasite in these birds. found in four native bird species, But a local reservoir species is but it seems to be new enough allowing the local transmission, that it hasn’t adapted to those even when the bobolinks are not birds as hosts. there. The team suspects and is focusing on one of the two However, something is serving introduced bird species breeding as a host. Evidence shows on the islands. that the parasite is moving from an infected mosquito In the summer of 2013, a team UMSL graduate students and helpers watch a mistnet, a fine net stretched of graduate students and other where it matures, to a host bird between two vertical poles. They are working at a high elevation site on the where it replicates itself, to scientists spent nine weeks in the island of Santa Cruz in Galápagos. Nets are observed continuously and birds another mosquito that can then Galápagos Islands collecting bird extracted from the nets as soon as they become entangled. infect another bird. The host blood and mosquito samples for completing the transmission analysis—in hopes of identifying between mosquitoes is the the parasite’s reservoir host. of disease could lead to the entire In the spring of 2014, Center “reservoir.” Reservoir suspects “Clearly, we are working against loss of some unique Galápagos scientists return to the Galápagos include a bird species not native the clock,” said Dr. Parker. “We bird species. The other option is Islands to continue their research; to the islands. The suspected know that the parasite is an to find and eradicate the vector they will be there in the rainy vector is one of two mosquito introduced species that could mosquito species.” season when mosquitoes species not native to the islands. be eradicated if it is relying on The direction that makes the most are more active and when “None of the endemic birds are other introduced species, the sense may soon be analyzed transmission of the plasmodium competent hosts, and we are reservoir and mosquito, for its through sophisticated models that will be at its peak. trying to avoid their becoming transmission. Our fear is that if allow researchers to assess risks good hosts by figuring out this climate or other factors make and advantages of each option. puzzle now,” said Dr. Parker. wildlife vulnerable, a resurgence

9 Center for Conservation of Carnivores in Africa

This Center embraced a new ranged widely throughout Africa mission in 2013 moving from and Asia dating back to the a focus on saving cheetah to Great Ice Age. Today, fewer than supporting programs in Tanzania 12,000 cheetahs inhabit a broad to conserve cheetah, lion, section of Africa. Over the past hyena, and painted dogs, while 50 years, cheetahs have become Core Mission continuing to work with cheetah- extinct in at least 13 countries— focused programs in Botswana, the remaining strongholds are The Center is focused on Kenya, Namibia, and South Africa. Kenya and Tanzania in East Africa educating the public about “For years, we have been breeding and Namibia and Botswana in carnivore conservation to support cheetah in our care, monitoring southern Africa. sound scientific research on cheetah populations in the wild Loss of habitat, ranchers carnivores and to develop and working with organizations killing animals, poaching and Project partner Maurus Msuha conservation programs that to deal with human-cheetah competition with large predators surveys Masai elders’ attitudes provide for the long-term survival conflict,” said Center Director for food are killing off many of of carnivores in Africa. toward cheetahs and other Steve Bircher, Saint Louis Zoo carnivores. the remaining cheetahs. That’s Curator of Mammals/Carnivores. why it only made sense for the “Since 1974, the Saint Louis Zoo Center to expand its conservation has also been a leader in of Zoos and Aquariums Species efforts to include other large cheetah research and captive Survival Plans for large African carnivores which have a direct breeding, and our Zoo and others carnivores—programs that are impact on cheetah survival and have had some success— designed to manage genetically play a critical role in maintaining the Saint Louis Zoo’s breeding healthy populations of carnivores a balanced environment. in North America. These program has produced over 35 “Because of this interrelationship, captive-bred offspring.” genetic reserves of carnivores may provide insurance for wild it is important to have information However, the global cheetah populations in the future. about each of these species to population’s lack of genetic develop sustainable carnivore diversity makes it more management programs in range susceptible to ecological and Losing Race for Survival countries,” Bircher added. environmental changes and In the wild, the world’s fastest disease threats. The Center land animal is losing its race for participates in the Association survival. Historically cheetahs Steve Bircher 10 Recent Accomplishments

»» The Center contributed data »» In Tanzania, thanks to Center land outside protected areas. habitat selection and issues and ideas to help develop a support, 75 percent of Cheetahs have been extirpated affecting livestock predation. regional Human-Lion Conflict the locally based research from 25 percent of their historic Understanding this helps staff Toolkit in Ruaha National assistants have received help Kenyan range since 1990. in the field use problem-animal Park—a Tanzanian strategy in their pursuit of advanced »» To promote cheetah population control measures to prevent the for conflict mitigation and education, earning master’s sustainability in Kenya through killing of cheetahs. the Tanzanian Action Plan for degrees at universities in Africa, their coexistence with people, »» Camera trapping, game counts, cheetahs and wild dogs. The England and the United States. ACK, local wildlife authorities fecal collection and conflict project resulted in a significant »» The Center supports Action for and land holders developed investigation methods are used decline in depredation and in Cheetahs in Kenya (ACK), which policies and programs to improve understanding of attacks. Over three quarters of works to promote cheetah to establish and support cheetah adaptations to land- local villagers surveyed now conservation through research, sustainable human and wildlife use changes. recognize some benefit from awareness and community zones. the presence of wildlife on participation. ACK national »» ACK sponsors seminars for village land. The Center and its surveys show that Kenya holds partners have documented an community members and 1,200 to 1,400 cheetahs with wildlife managers to explain 80 percent decline in carnivore over 75 percent residing on killing by villagers in the area. factors influencing cheetah

and on efforts to reduce human- of Tanzania teaches children carnivore conflict, conservation of conservation skills they can take animals outside protected areas, back to their communities and veterinary and health issues and use in their adult lives. education programs related to In St. Louis, Valley Middle carnivore conservation. School is hosting a pilot program For example, the Center and its allowing students to exchange art partners have conducted and work with MALIHAI club members participated in workshops to in Tanzania; in the future the St. train and educate citizens in local Louis participants will be creating communities, helping the people native plant gardens, cleaning up Steve Bircher and Kenyan researcher Tanzanian research partners mount Cosmas Wambua are shown setting living near endangered animals a camera to monitor carnivores in their campus and establishing a cheetah trap in the Salama region realize that protecting these Ruaha National Park, located in recycling programs through a (the trapped cheetah receives a magnificent animals will help central Tanzania. student-run club. satellite tracking collar to help them attract tourists. The Center researchers monitor its movements has also supported education and determine its home range size). Finally, the Center has worked to and training of researchers and educate local youth—getting them managers working in the field involved in various conservation- Educating Communities so that they can continue work related activities. A Center- For Africa’s carnivores, the begun by the Center director and sponsored program through the Center is focused on developing others visiting the area. MALIHAI Conservation Clubs effective census techniques

11 Center for Conservation in Forest Park

Unique among the WildCare Institute Centers, this Center is focused on conservation activities and community education in the 1,371-acre park Core Mission that, for over 100 years, has been home to the Saint Louis Zoo. The Center’s conservation The Center for Conservation projects focus on native wildlife in Forest Park provides for the ecology and management in an preservation and study of native urban park, where habitats are wildlife and for conservation similar to those found in rural education in Forest Park. locations. However, managing them brings a set of challenges that merits support. In cooperation with the Zoo’s Students from St. Louis inner city schools visited Forest Park to learn from partner, Forest Park Forever, scientists about animal habitats and to study native plants. the Center provides for the preservation and study of native wildlife and works to engage Goal: To Introduce Children to nature as a child, and recent area students in conservation data suggests that time spent activities in the Park—particularly Wild Places “In today’s world, wild spaces in nature has a profound effect youth with little opportunity to are fewer and farther between, on many aspects of childhood learn about natural habitats and offering little opportunity for the development. Restored wetlands, the plants and animals that live type of exploration and informal prairie and savannah areas in them. learning that was available to provide a perfect backdrop for many just a generation ago,” said study. Introducing local children Alice Seyfried, Fred Saigh Curator to the many habitats of Forest of the Emerson Children’s Zoo Park is a primary goal of the and Center Director. “Studies Center for Conservation in have shown that conservation- Forest Park.” minded adults spent time in Alice Seyfried 12 Recent Accomplishments

»» One of the Center’s most in St. Louis a multi-faceted »» In 2008, the Center mobilized They used this data to improve innovative initiatives was a program that used Forest Park youth volunteers as citizen and modify park habitat. two-year “Observing Nature” for the study of native wildlife scientists to survey pollinator »» A 2009 Center collaborative program that began in the fall and for conservation education. populations in Forest Park’s program helped eradicate of 2010. This program was Center staff brought a range restored prairies. About 90 honeysuckle, using a group of conducted in collaboration of animals from snakes to an percent of all flowering plants five goats to remove invasive with the Saint Louis Art owl into the classrooms for need the help of animals honeysuckle bushes that crowd Museum. This program linked conservation discussions and to move pollen from flower out the native plants that art and science in a way that art projects. Students visited to flower for the production provide food and cover for local helped students develop the Saint Louis Art Museum to of fruits and seeds. Armed wildlife. This experiment sent a their observation and critical view nature-oriented paintings with digital cameras, strong conservation message to thinking skills, while gaining and decorative arts and reflect guidebooks and field journals, the St. Louis community about an awareness of their local what they had seen in their own Zoo researchers gathered the critical need to reinstate environment. art. Students enjoyed nature information about the diversity native vegetation. »» This project offered all students excursions in Forest Park, where and abundance of pollinators from Cole Elementary School they observed and sketched the and about invertebrate local habitat. populations and colonization.

In 2013, Center staff worked with visits included a scavenger hunt the Zoo’s Education Department on Zoo grounds that helped to offer classroom education students better understand the and field conservation work to need to conserve species and students at an internationally the conservation projects the focused high school and a Zoo conducts. On another field Montessori elementary school, trip, students learned about the both located in underserved importance of restored riverbanks areas of St. Louis’ inner city. for migratory and native wildlife. The students also helped install multiple habitats in the park. Field Trips to Install Habitats Education Department staff Pre- and post-assessments of brought animals into the student knowledge indicated classroom—a barred owl, box a significant growth in their turtle and kestrel—all of which understanding of the importance can be seen when visiting Forest Learning about the importance of restored riverbanks, these students planted of wildlife and habitat and cared for vegetation in Forest Park habitats. Park. They shared lessons on conservation. the conservation activities of the WildCare Institute centers, After several sessions in the trips to learn about lakefront bringing the facts to life classroom, the students then and other animal habitats and with demonstrations of field visited Forest Park on field to study native plants. These techniques.

13 Ron Goellner Center for Hellbender Conservation

Throughout 2013, this Center Severe Population Decline 75 years. This 70 percent decline continued to work with The Ozark hellbender inhabits over the past 30 years led to thousands of captive bred larvae streams of the White River the hellbender’s addition to the – all to save Missouri’s largest drainage. Rivers in south-central federal list of endangered species. salamander from extinction. Missouri and adjacent north- The Missouri Department of The Center is now home to central Arkansas once supported Conservation and the Zoo have over 4,000 endangered Ozark up to 8,000 Ozark hellbenders; worked together for the past Core Mission hellbenders that are being raised today fewer than 500 exist in decade to save this remarkable from captive and wild eggs— Missouri streams. An assessment species that measures about two the result of a major research of the hellbender’s population feet in length and also is known The award-winning Ron breakthrough when the Center and the habitat viability of this as the “snot otter.” Goellner Center for Hellbender announced the world’s first species had it disappearing in Conservation provides for the captive breeding of the Ozark preservation of the endangered hellbender. Ozark hellbender through captive propagation and reintroduction That 2011 milestone also led into the wild. The Center’s work to the Zoo becoming home to leads to a better understanding of 75 percent of the world’s the overall health of the aquatic population of Ozark hellbenders ecosystems of Missouri streams and to additional work with and rivers for the benefit of all federal and state agencies to living things. continue to augment the number of hellbenders in the wild. This success was the result of a highly dedicated staff: One part-time and three full-time hellbender keepers have developed special husbandry skills in managing this population.

Staff from the Zoo and the Missouri Department of Conservation conduct health assessments on Ozark hellbenders. Center and Conservation Department scientists are working to augment wild populations and to date, have released Jeff 706 Zoo-reared juvenile hellbenders into the wild. Ettling, Ph.D. 14 Recent Accomplishments

»» For the third consecutive by a grant from the Missouri reproductive success of the award has been presented to year, the Center has achieved Department of Conservation Ozark hellbender, was awarded the speaker at the IHS meeting successful reproduction of and the Zoo. the Joseph Laszlo Memorial who has demonstrated that his Ozark Hellbenders. Because »» Saint Louis Zoo Herpetarium Award on August 3, 2013, or her work represents new and the hellbender population has Keeper Chawna Schuette, at final ceremonies of the exciting views and advances in grown so quickly, the Center who has played a major role International Herpetological herpetology. decided in 2013 to build a in the captive breeding and Symposium held in New third room that was funded Orleans. Since 1991, this

In 2001, a working group was the wild, indicating problems formed to include individuals with juvenile survival. For that from federal and state agencies, reason, the Center and Missouri academia, zoos and non- Conservation Department are governmental organizations actively working to augment wild interested in saving hellbenders. populations with healthy, young Captive propagation efforts captive-raised hellbenders. for the hellbender started in To date, 706 juvenile Ozark 2002 at the Zoo’s Charles H. hellbenders reared at the Saint Hoessle Herpetarium, where Louis Zoo have been released there is a fully functioning, into the wild. Based on current indoor, 32-foot-long, man-made models, it is estimated that stream that simulates water and the Center will be breeding and environmental conditions of a releasing hellbenders for the next natural Ozark river. The Zoo has 15 years. constructed two outdoor 40-foot- The more than 4,000 baby hellbenders residing at the Saint Louis Zoo now long streams for sustaining two Probable causes for the Ozark represent 75 percent of the world’s Ozark hellbender population. additional breeding groups. hellbender’s decline include degraded water quality, habitat loss, predation and illegal “If there is something in the water for 40 years, and we continue to Augmenting Wild Populations collection for the pet trade. Also that is causing the hellbender believe it is critical that we save From 2011 to 2013, the Center threatening these salamanders population to decline, it can also the hellbender, like all wildlife, in staff successfully raised 14 are a fungal disease and physical be affecting the people who call its native habitat.” clutches of hellbender eggs laid deformities. the Ozarks home,” said Center in nest boxes in all three of the Director Jeff Ettling, Ph.D., who All of these problems are not Zoo’s simulated streams. is also Saint Louis Zoo Curator of only troubling for the survival of Herpetology and Aquatics. “It’s But despite the good news, there the hellbender, which requires clear that the survival of the is troubling evidence that the clean, cool, fast-moving water, hellbender is closely linked to our average age of Ozark hellbender but also because this salamander own health. The Zoo has had an populations is increasing. Few is an important barometer of the ongoing interest in hellbenders young hellbenders are found in overall health of the ecosystem.

15 The Center for Conservation in the Horn of Africa

In 2013, the Center for Conservation in the Horn of Africa continued to play a key role in sustaining critically endangered wild species and habitats found in Kenya and Ethiopia. By supporting community- Core Mission based coalitions and actively establishing a variety of conservation, research and This Center was established education programs, this Center to provide in situ and ex situ is striking a lasting balance conservation support for wildlife between the needs of community of the Horn of Africa. The Zoo has members and the imperiled been involved in cooperative ex existence of several rare species Shown at a community meeting in Kenya is Peter Lalampaa, who was selected situ conservation, research and in this unique region by for a 2013 Disney Conservation Hero Award for his dedication to protecting education programs for Horn of engaging communities in wildlife in wild places. As Field Director of Grevy’s Zebra Trust, he supervises the Grevy’s Zebra Scout, Ambassador and Warrior Programs, works on research and Africa wildlife for decades. In the Kenya and Ethiopia. last decade, the Zoo’s support monitoring projects in collaboration with the Trust’s partners and is the primary community liaison for the Trust. has evolved to include in situ conservation initiatives in this In Kenya a community-led initiative that In Ethiopia region and has benefited many This Center supports the Grevy’s forms a true union of Kenyan The little understood mountain species, including the Center’s Zebra Trust, an independent communities through field nyala and the Ethiopian wolf are flagship species, the Grevy’s wildlife conservation organization conservation and education two critically endangered species. Zebra. Center activities also established to address the urgent programs. Cooperative, multi- This Center is supporting capacity address critical conservation need to conserve the endangered community habitat restoration building and education projects concerns of other unique species, Grevy’s zebra in the community programs are successfully re- to benefit these species. rangelands and work holistically establishing important wildlife- like the mountain nyala, African As the Center pursues its goals, to secure critical resources friendly areas and historical elephant, Ethiopian wolf, hirola long-lasting partnerships are and safeguard this species migratory corridors for all of the and other Horn of Africa wildlife. being established. This Center from extinction. It does this by wildlife species in the region, continues to build relationships engaging communities in its including Grevy’s zebras and with an impressive array of monitoring and protection. African elephants. international partners in its This Center also supports the efforts to conserve the wildlife of Martha Northern Rangelands Trust, this region. Fischer 16 Recent Accomplishments

»» The Center joined Grevy’s Zebra and Saint Louis Zoo Curator of »» University of Georgia Ph.D. in Conservation Genetics in Trust and others in supporting Mammals Martha Fischer co- candidate Sara Heisel is 2013 from the University of a focused aerial survey of presented with Peter Lalampaa working with the Grevy’s Zebra Oslo, Norway. populations of Grevy’s zebras a paper on the international Trust on a project entitled »» With MELCA-Ethiopia, the and African elephants across Grevy’s zebra conservation “Exploring how genetic WildCare Institute supported northern Kenya in November collaboration. diversity affects fitness in the 8th Annual Mountain Nyala 2012. The 2013 report on »» With support from the variable environments in the Day, an awareness-raising this aerial survey estimates WildCare Institute, Rikapo endangered Grevy’s zebra”— event that is attended by over the Grevy’s zebra population Lentiyoo, Grevy’s Zebra Trust thanks to a $10,000 grant from 2,500 community members at approximately 2,647 Regional Coordinator, graduated the WildCare Institute and each year. individuals, reflecting that with honors from the Southern Saint Louis Zoo. the population has stabilized African Wildlife College in South »» Anagaw Atickem, whose and is, in fact, increasing in Africa in 2013. The only student research on the biology, some areas. from Kenya, he contributed an behavior and genetics of »» The WildCare Institute, San East African perspective mountain nyala was partially Diego Zoo Global and others that was appreciated by his supported by the WildCare supported the publication course leaders. Institute, received his Ph.D. and printing of the National Conservation and Management Strategy for Grevy’s Zebra in Kenya, 2013-2018. This strategy will serve as a guide for Grevy’s zebra conservation actions in Kenya over the next five years. »» With WildCare Institute funding, the Grevy’s Zebra Trust Ambassadors attended the KWS Law Enforcement training that gave the Ambassadors the skills to help protect wildlife in remote northern Kenya. Ann Kathekwa Lekararo, Senior Radio Operator for the Trust and the only woman trainee in this course, performed at an outstanding level, ranking 7th in the class. At the October With Northern Rangelands Trust’s Ishaqbini Conservancy and others, the WildCare Institute helped establish a fenced 2013 World Association of predator-proof sanctuary for the critically endangered hirola. In November 2013, seven newborn hirola calves were spotted; Zoos and Aquariums they are believed to have been conceived in this reserve and bring the thriving sanctuary population up to an estimated Conference, Center Director 63 animals. (Photo courtesy of Northern Rangelands Trust.)

17 Center for Conservation of the Horned Guan (Pavon) in Mexico

with a unique horn of bare skin extending from the top of their head. About the size of a small turkey, horned guans are arboreal, meaning they prefer to spend Core Mission their time in trees.

The Center is working to save The arboreal horned guan nests high Little Known the horned guan through habitat up in trees. About Population Numbers management, the development This species is inextricably tied of environmental education This Center is focused on learning to its environment in ways that programming, life histories about and conserving one of the have never been systematically studies, captive management world’s most threatened families studied; field researchers are and active involvement in of Neotropical birds—the cracids. working to learn more about two international committees the basic biology of the horned Cracids are represented by guan and how it uses its critical dedicated to the conservation of approximately 50 species of fowl- the horned guan and its habitat. habitat and resources. Even Center Director Michael Macek like birds, known as chachalacas, exact population numbers are collects fruits that are the diet for curassows and guans. Bird difficult to determine due to horned guans for analysis. Life International currently lists the challenges of conducting a 38 percent of these species census in very difficult terrain. as vulnerable, endangered or In the bird’s cloud forest habitat critically endangered. “These conditions make in the Sierra Madres de Chiapas, supporting project-based Mexico, and throughout west- A member of the cracid family, activities in the native habitat central Guatemala, decades the horned guan is listed by of the horned guan critically of hunting, logging, firewood Bird Life International and The important,” said Center Director gathering and agricultural World Conservation Union as Michael Macek, who is also expansion have resulted endangered—with an estimated Curator of Birds at the Saint Louis in extensive deforestation. wild population of between Zoo, which has been a leader in Environmental changes 1,000 and 2,500 birds. Large developing a long-term recovery associated with El Niño events and dramatic, horned guans plan for the horned guan. have resulted in as much as 60 are predominantly glossy black, percent of inland cloud forests Michael Macek 18 Recent Accomplishments

»» With its partners, the Center programs, coupled with tourism, providing alternative individual identification of birds is currently focusing on enforcement action, will help economic opportunities for by their vocalizations. This developing local education reduce the threats caused by local communities. form of acoustic monitoring for programs to teach local illegal timber removal, cattle »» Noteworthy advances tracking individuals is non- communities how to farm in grazing and hunting. The have been made in census invasive and can be used in more habitat-friendly ways sustainable management of techniques; for example, complex environments like the and to strengthen community organic coffee plantations and researchers are using cloud forest. conservation participation the formation of an additional innovative approaches like with other approaches. These reserve offer potential for eco- being lost to extreme drought breeding as a component of the and fires, while on the Pacific species conservation program. slope as much as 12 percent of One of only two U.S. zoos the cloud forest habitat has been caring for these birds, modified by landslides due to the Saint Louis Zoo is trying to increased precipitation. breed its horned guans. In 2013, the Zoo received two additional birds, bringing its total number to Captive Breeding to Help Birds four; Zoo staff placed the birds Survive in habitats that are close to each The Center has focused other to encourage competition its efforts in the El Triunfo for the females between the Biosphere Reserve in Chiapas. two males. “We hope this will Approximately 62,000 acres stimulate the birds to lay and of that reserve’s 300,000 total fertilize eggs,” said Macek. acres are managed as core zones that enjoy the highest The habitat of the horned guan is the forests of the Zoo captive reproduction level of protection. Core zone Sierra Madres de Chiapas in Mexico. initiatives have included management regulations nutritional analysis of captive dictate that all productive and diets and DNA analysis of a extractive activities are forbidden. portion of the captive population. the Conservation of the Horned network of institutions that are These zones are dedicated In addition to breeding the guan, Guan and its Habitat— created committed to saving this species. to conservation and research the Center continues to support the Cloud Forest Ambassadors Over the last five years, the Cloud programs; it is here that the only research on census methodology, Program. The program is focused Forest Ambassadors Fund has Mexican population of horned population density, habitat use on helping the species survive supported 28 projects in Mexico guans is known to exist. and the diet of this species in the through captive breeding. This and Guatemala in the amount of wild. The Center has contributed It is also here where the Center collaboration seeks to raise $112,750. expertise and $65,000 to support and its partners—the IUCN funds to create and support The most recent Conservation these projects. Cracid Specialists Group and conservation programs in the wild Assessment and Management the International Committee for and to establish an international Plan recommends captive

19 The Institute for Conservation Medicine

Since its founding in 2011, the West Nile, SARS, Avian Flu, the project includes significant Zoo’s Institute for Conservation Zoonotic Diseases outreach, with college and high Medicine (ICM) has pursued Several often deadly emerging school students participating projects and established infectious diseases, like West in health assessments partnerships to address diseases Nile virus, avian influenza, SARS and elementary school age Core Mission animals and humans share— and Ebola, are zoonotic diseases students tracking turtles. diseases that both challenge caused by pathogens that pass “Using box turtles as the the conservation of wildlife and between animals and humans. ambassadors, we aim to The Institute for Conservation threaten public health. Zoonotic diseases account for 75 get young people to better Medicine takes a holistic The Institute focuses on studies of percent of all emerging infectious understand ecosystems in approach to research on wildlife, diseases of conservation concern diseases in human populations Missouri while appreciating just public health and sustainable and human health. Institute today. Discovering diseases early ‘getting dirty’ and enjoying the ecosystems to insure healthy researchers seek to understand and determining how they are natural world,” said Dr. Deem, animals and healthy people. To diseases that have population spread can help save lives. who will soon submit early find out more, visit stlzoo.org/ level impacts on wildlife and research findings on this project conservationmedicine. ICM is working to increase that may serve as sentinels of understanding of these diseases to a scientific journal. emerging diseases in humans. both in domestic and non- “The Zoo has been practicing domestic animals. In 2013, with Forest Park Forever, Washington Researching Plastics conservation medicine for years ICM joined researchers from the University in St. Louis, Max Planck through our research in a number University of Missouri-Columbia, Institute for Ornithology, and of the WildCare Institute Centers United States Geological Survey, local high school and college across the globe,” says ICM and Westminster College in students, ICM continued to Director Dr. Sharon Deem, who studying the effects of endocrine document box turtle movements is both a veterinarian and an disrupting compounds (EDCs) on and their health status in epidemiologist. “However, at ICM, the behavioral and reproductive urban and rural areas around we bring another dimension to traits of fish, reptiles and St. Louis. This study aims to better understand the challenges mammals. This research is better understand environmental of conserving species through our significant because EDCs, factors that may be affecting research on wildlife, public health found within many plastics, the health of turtles and that and sustainable ecosystems. Our are increasingly prevalent in may also have implications for goal is to ensure healthy animals Missouri waterways and have Sharon and healthy people.” human health. Additionally, Deem, DVM Ph.D. 20 Recent Accomplishments

»» Along with State University »» An Association of Zoos and study “Human health benefits of these, go to stlzoo.org/ of New York and Max Planck Aquariums Conservation associated with visiting conservationmedicine. Institute, ICM was awarded Endowment Fund (CEF) grant zoological institutions.” »» In April 2013, ICM hosted a One in 2013 a National Science was awarded in 2013 to Dr. »» Dr. Deem was author or co- Health Fair at the Zoo, where Foundation grant on Deem, the Zoo’s Director of author on several published visitors learned about health “How Environment, Physiology Education Louise Bradshaw, journal articles and gave links and disease challenges and Life History Interact to Zoo Manager of Audience more than two dozen that are important for wildlife Determine Pattern in Animal Research Amy Niedbalski presentations in 2013, many conservation and human public Migration.” and Rebecca Johnson (from of which resulted in ICM health. the University of Missouri- work being published in Columbia Veterinary College) to proceedings. For links to some

The lack of pasteurization there results in millions of humans being exposed to zoonotic pathogens, as camel milk may carry bacteria, viruses and parasites. By working to ensure the health of camels, this ICM project benefits human and wildlife health as camels may share pathogens with both groups. Research on camel milk will continue in 2014.

Galápagos Tortoise, Madagascar Lemur Health Assessments In 2013, Dr. Deem spent three weeks in the Galápagos Islands Institute researchers conduct their health assessment of dromedary camels used as part of a National Science Two Kenyan camel herders pour for milk in Kenya. They have tested 550 camels for general health indicators and Foundation-funded project camel milk into carriers for transport for infectious disease-causing agents. At left, Institute Director Dr. Sharon Deem assessing tortoise health and to town; the lack of pasteurization of is shown taking a blood sample. ecology. In Madagascar, she most camel milk results in millions of humans being exposed to zoonotic worked with the staff of the pathogens. health implications for wildlife, Zoonotic Pathogens in Kenya WildCare Institute Center for domestic animals and humans. Institute researchers in 2011, Conservation in Madagascar 2012 and 2013 conducted a conducting a biomedical survey health assessment of dromedary on lemurs. camels used for milk in Kenya.

21 The Center for Conservation in Madagascar

It has been more than two social improvements under the A natural area that is the focus decades since the Saint Louis former president were not only of much of the Center’s work, Zoo joined with the Madagascar lost during the intervening years, Betampona Natural Reserve, Fauna and Flora Group (MFG) but Madagascar’s economy also was largely spared from illegal to help conserve Madagascar’s declined. Today, 92 percent of activities due to the continual unique and globally important all Malagasy live on less than presence of MFG and Center staff biodiversity. $2 a day, and half the nation’s and researchers in the forest. Core Mission That work was taken up by this children under age five suffer Center in 2004 and continued from malnutrition. Biodiversity Surveys in Reserve despite a coup that left Widespread poverty, During November 2013, a team Working under the umbrella of Madagascar without a legitimate governmental corruption of six herpetologists conducted the Madagascar Fauna and government; 2013 ended with and lawlessness brought a six- week survey of the reptiles Flora Group, this Center’s mission the free and fair election of a on significant levels of in Betampona. The first expert is to conserve Madagascar’s plant new president of Madagascar forest destruction and other survey in 2004 identified and animal species. The Center who will face enormous environmental abuses. 45 species; this follow-up conducts health assessments challenges. The financial and survey identified around 20 and research project on additional species. lemurs and works with other organizations to decrease That team photographed, the factors that contribute to measured, took genetic samples environmental degradation and and recorded GPS points loss of biodiversity. and habitat type of captured individuals. Results will be used to identify new candidate species, complete the reserve’s herpetofauna (amphibians and reptiles) list and identify species most in need of conservation management. As a first step in understanding the conservation needs of Eric Betampona’s snail populations, the Center also funded a land The Center is sponsoring a study on the feeding and ranging behavior of indri— Miller, DVM snail survey that began in 2013 like this mother and her offspring. Chair, Madagascar and continues in 2014. Prior to Fauna and Flora Group 22 Recent Accomplishments

»» Fidisoa Rasambainarivo, has already gained significant interface of humans, domestic remote sensing data, and DVM, MS., was selected as field experience over the past animals and wildlife. a decision tree algorithm,” the second recipient of the nine years as a veterinary »» The Center’s partnership with written by Abduwasit Whitney Harris-Saint Louis Zoo student attending the University Saint Louis University’s Center Ghulam, Ingrid Porton and Fellowship to pursue a Ph.D. at of Antananarivo and when he for Sustainability prompted a Karen Freeman. It appeared the University of Missouri-St. was earning his master’s degree publication titled “Detecting in the ISPRS Journal of Louis, where WildCare Institute in Veterinary Epidemiology at subcanopy invasive plant Photogrammetry and Remote Center Director and UMSL the University of Montreal. His species in tropical rainforest Sensing. Professor Dr. Patty Parker will interest is centered on the issue by integrating optical and »» MFG added Taipei Zoo to its list serve as his major advisor. He of disease transmission at the microwave (InSAR/PolInSAR) of partners.

Research to Help two Critically social interactions with non- selected, strawberry guava, has Endangered Species group members. Lana’s work been identified as one of the The year also marked progress is expanding understanding world’s worst invasive plants. for Washington University Ph.D. of wild indri and will help the It was MFG Research Director, student Lana Kerker, who has Center develop management Karen Freeman, Ph.D., who in nearly completed a study on the strategies to sustain healthy indri 2006 raised the alarm about feeding and ranging behavior of populations. increasing guava populations six I. indri and three P. diadema around Betampona and who groups. To facilitate reliably won government permission finding and observing the indri Capacity Building Continues for the MFG to carry out the first One of the Center’s primary and sifakas, the Center team scientific trial in Madagascar to objectives is to provide captured and placed radio collars control strawberry guava within a opportunities for talented and on one individual per group and protected reserve. The leaf-tailed gecko was one of motivated Malagasy to realize many reptiles that were part of placed colored collars on the their goals for a higher education. Lala’s Ph.D. project was designed a 2013 survey conducted by six others. The diameter, height In addition, by supporting a to compare four methods of herpetologists at Betampona Natural and phenological status of all graduate student, the Center manually controlling guava and Reserve in Madagascar. trees/lianas on which group accomplishes another important to measure the cost effectiveness, members feed during the this survey, only 17 species had objective—undertaking research practicality and environmental observations are also measured been identified; of these, 15 are on a topic of conservation impact of each method with a and mapped with a GPS waypoint. endemic, and two are invasive concern. view to developing strategies To provide a measure of resource species. After two months of for the long-term conservation availability, phenological data is This has certainly been surveying, approximately 40 taxa management of this invasive also collected monthly on 500 exemplified by doctoral student have been found. species. Lala completed his tagged trees. Lala Randriatavys’ work, a field work this year and, even project that addresses what Monitoring multiple indri before finishing an in-depth is considered one of the most groups of individually identified analysis of all measured variables, severe threats to wild ecosystems animals has resulted in some the results have proven very in the world today, invasive unexpected and never previously promising. species. Indeed, the species he reported observations on

23 Center for Native Pollinator Conservation

With education a major goal, this Center pursued a range of community outreach activities in 2013. The Center’s PAUSE (Pollinators/Art/Urban Agriculture/Society/and the Environment) project team selected and won approval for a Core Mission pollinator garden in the center of downtown Florissant, Missouri. Established in 2011, the Center The Saint Louis Zoo, the National for Native Pollinator Conservation Museums of Kenya in Nairobi focuses on the importance and and Tohono Chul Park of Tucson, diversity of native pollinators, Arizona, sponsored this program especially native bees, for to engage youth in designing and the maintenance and survival establishing pollinator gardens of wildlife, ecosystems and and pollinator habitat sculptures, agriculture. Several species of while reaching out to residents Through the Center’s PAUSE program, students learned about designing bumble bees in the U.S. have of urban communities. Native and establishing pollinator gardens and native bee habitat sculptures, while reaching out to residents of their urban communities; here, the group from disappeared across their ranges pollinators and community and may be endangered; their St. Louis work on a 3.5-acre community garden/pollinator park site in gardening were the platforms downtown Florissant, Mo. loss and the disappearance of for exploring cultural identities, other pollinators have major creating works of art and sharing consequences. The Center messages about the importance Global Youth Program participants went to Kenya works to educate people of developing pollinator Spreads The Word in June. about the need to protect habitats. This $200,000 project From October 2012 through July While some PAUSE participants pollinators and their habitat was paid for in part with an 2013, young students chosen as continue to work on the 3.5- and to develop and support $86,000 grant from Museums PAUSE participants in St. Louis, acre garden site in downtown local, national and international Connect made possible by the Tucson, Arizona, and Nairobi, Florissant, the development of conservation programs. U.S. State Department Bureau Kenya, learned about pollinators the park in Florissant is now of Educational and Cultural and working on garden design being managed entirely by the Affairs. The three participating and art projects. A contingent Center. The site near the Saint institutions covered the of Kenyan participants visited Ferdinand Shrine will include a remaining costs. St. Louis and Tucson in April, community garden (with both and St. Louis and Tucson PAUSE individual and shared gardens Ed Spevak 24 Recent Accomplishments

»» A major achievement involved workshop were the Xerces North American Bumble Bee These bees have threatened organizing and conducting Society for Invertebrate conservation. This meeting led the survival of native species. the first regional strategy Conservation, the IUCN directly to the formation of the The National Institute for meeting for bumble bees and Species Survival Commission IUCN SSC Bumblebee Specialist Environmental Studies is the International Union for Conservation Breeding Group (BBSG) to focus on developing a new method Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Specialist Group, the University bumble bee conservation and strategy for eradicating Species Survival Commission of Illinois–Urbana-Champaign worldwide. naturalized European bumble Bumblebee Specialist Group. and the U.S. Department »» Since then, this group has bee populations in Japan. In 2010, Ed Spevak, Center of Agriculture’s Agricultural completed assessments »» The Mesoamerican Region Director and Curator of Research Service. Fifty-two of bumble bee viability in Group conducted a workshop Invertebrates, and the attendees from across North China and Europe. Japan is and collaboratively established Saint Louis Zoo hosted and America, Europe and Japan, developing control methods conservation and management helped organize a workshop representing researchers, against naturalized populations priorities for bumble bee on the Conservation of North government agencies and of alien bumble bees used species native to Mexico and American Bumble Bees. conservation organizations, successfully to pollinate Guatemala. Partners in developing this developed a strategy for tomatoes in greenhouses.

for food bank donations), an the Missouri Department of orchard and traditional American Transportation to create roadside Indian “Three Sisters Gardens” in pollinator gardens that would addition to re-creations of early improve pollination of crops, settlers’ gardens. benefit pollinators and reduce The site also includes a utility mowing costs. Roadside gardens transmission line right-of-way will also help motorists better area which is being restored as understand the importance of a prairie and pollinator corridor. protecting pollinators. This 1.5-acre area is expected to Finally, on a national level, Ed be completely planted in early Spevak has reached out to the 2014. First Nation’s Development In addition to staffing booths Institute to help encourage and making presentations at pollinator-friendly agricultural various community events, practices that would lead to Center Director and Curator better food security for American of Invertebrates Ed Spevak Indian tribes. spoke about the need to save Youth from St. Louis, Nairobi and Tucson shared information and created designs pollinators before hundreds who for pollinator gardens and native bee habitat sculptures over the year-long attended the national meeting PAUSE program. Here the U.S.-based students are shown with Kenyan students in St. Louis of the American Herb in Nairobi, where they visited the Kenyans’ urban community garden and habitat Society. He is also working with sculpture.

25 Center for Conservation in Punta San Juan, Peru

For the 11th consecutive year, this Center conducted an annual comprehensive census of endangered Humboldt penguins covering the entire Peruvian coast. This was a critical step toward species management Core Mission and recovery. “This 2013 census tells us that the population is stable in Peru Since 1977, the Saint Louis Zoo at the moment, which is good has been home to Humboldt news for a species that faces an penguins, and the Zoo has been uncertain future,” said Center active in working with other Director Michael Macek, who is accredited zoos to breed a also Saint Louis Zoo Curator of healthy and genetically diverse Birds. Human incursions into captive population. The Center’s their habitat, environmental goal is to secure this penguin’s issues like gas pipelines and In 2013, Zoological Manager Anne Tieber participated in the 11th consecutive future and the future of other super highways, recurring El Niño census of vulnerable Humboldt penguins; census takers covered the entire marine wildlife in Punta San Southern Oscillations and non- Peruvian coast to determine the status of the population. Juan, working with conservation native predators have historically consortium partners. caused a significant decline in penguin numbers. Health of One-Fifth of Bird not show anything unusual to the relief of researchers, who include In February 2013, Bird Zoological Population Assessed That census was followed by a scientists from other zoos, non- Manager Anne Tieber and Bird November health assessment governmental and government Keeper Frank Fischer participated in Punta San Juan, the largest organizations. They represent in the annual census, helping to breeding colony in Peru. It members of a consortium that cover over 932 miles and count was the seventh assessment entered into a memorandum of 10,000 birds. conducted by the Center and its understanding to secure Punta partners. To date approximately San Juan until it and 31 other one-fifth of the Punta San Juan important penguin breeding sites population has been evaluated. were incorporated into Peru’s This analysis of skin, blood, Protected Areas System in 2009. feather and tissue samples did Michael Macek 26 Recent Accomplishments

»» The Center has been successful »» The Center has been census costs and ensures that new threats to regional wildlife in collecting 10 consecutive training three Peruvian non- the census will continue. populations. years of census data for the governmental organizations »» The Center has developed »» The Center has been successful entire Peruvian Humboldt (NGOs) to conduct the census relationships between local in making the status of the penguin population. This data in the northern, central and biologists and fishermen Humboldt penguin more visible will be necessary to complete a southern regions of the resulting in a better to wildlife agencies, permit viability analysis and to monitor penguins range. This capacity understanding of changing offices and local communities. population trends in the future. building, which develops conditions near coastal »» The Center added the Kansas interest in the conservation communities and of potential of the area’s wildlife, reduces City Zoo as a partner.

They have also helped support Going Forward: many native wildlife species. Here For more than 25 years, Punta and develop protocols for three An Expanded Mission the continental shelf comes very San Juan has been dedicated sustainable guano harvests—in In 2013, the Center’s mission close to the coast, creating an to researching local wild 2001, 2007 and 2012. Guano grew to include conservation upwelling of nutrient-rich waters populations of marine organisms (bird excrement) provides a soft programs aimed at protecting that provide a fertile environment to better understand how substrate for penguin nesting all the species that call Punta for achoveta, the primary food they interact with the natural burrows. Unsustainable harvest San Juan home. This peninsula source for the Humboldt penguin and human elements of their of guano for use in fertilizer on the southern coast of Peru and many other sea birds and environment. The area holds endangered the breeding of provides an ideal habitat for marine mammals. important populations of guano penguins until recent years when birds—Guanay cormorant, sustainable harvest protocols Peruvian pelicans, Peruvian reduced the direct harvest impact boobies and two pinniped from a 10 percent penguin species—(South American fur population loss to zero. seals and sea lions). All are The most recent harvest included endangered, vulnerable or rare. 21 regional and 25 international Nine other listed species are also volunteers representing five found in Punta San Juan. nations. These volunteers The next step for Center staff is to were trained in the field to develop a strategic plan for the identify and count marine coast sustainable management and wildlife species and to act as oversight of the reserve and for international observers in the the management of other marine guano extraction areas. They protected areas in Peru and also took part in conservation elsewhere. education activities that involved teamwork and cooperation. This team is working to sustainably harvest guano—bird excrement that provides a soft substrate for penguin nesting burrows. For years, unsustainable harvests for use as fertilizer endangered the breeding of penguins. That has been turned around by the efforts of the Center and its partners.

27 Saharan Wildlife Recovery Center

The Saharan Wildlife Recovery bird on the planet—the Saharan Center continues to raise red-necked ostrich—will all awareness about the silent crisis follow silently in the oryx’s fading of extinction underway for an footprints to oblivion. entire suite of Sahelo-Saharan The Center was created in species in North and West Africa. response to a call to action by The scimitar-horned oryx, which the Convention on Migratory Core Mission once roamed the region in the Species, the Sahelo-Saharan hundreds of thousands, passed Interest Group and other zoo Nigerian children see an ostrich egg quietly into extinction from the professionals and wildlife This Center looks for ways for the first time and learn about wild over 30 years ago. Without biologists. Since its founding, Niger’s effort to save the largest bird to connect Zoo animals with immediate attention and the Center has partnered with the on the planet, the Saharan race of the meaningful conservation intervention, species like the international zoo community to red-necked ostrich, which is no longer action within the 14 range dama gazelle, addax, Saharan launch and support the Sahara found across 95 percent of its range. states touched by the Sahara. cheetah, Barbary sheep, slender- Conservation Fund (SCF), the only The Center focuses on raising horned gazelle, and the biggest non-governmental, not-for-profit awareness about the unique organization devoted exclusively General Curator at the Saint Louis opportunity to save so many to Sahelo-Saharan wildlife Zoo. “We work diligently to raise endangered species in one conservation. awareness and engage new place, supporting the necessary partners to grow SCF’s capacity field work to document species’ to face new challenges and presence and abundance Among Top 10 Organizations opportunities in the region.” and providing critical data on “The Saint Louis Zoo is proud In 2012, SCF and the Center their ecology to help develop of the role its Saharan Wildlife partnered with the Republic of management plans to ensure Recovery Center plays in Niger and other organizations their future. supporting and promoting SCF. to establish the Termit & Tin In short order, SCF has become Toumma National Nature Reserve Sahara Conservation Fund CEO John the recognized conservation in Niger—the largest protected Newby recognized the plight of the authority in the Sahara and was area in Africa at nearly 38,000 nearly extinct Saharan ostrich and recently listed among the top square miles. This reserve is galvanized the international zoo 10 conservation organizations home to more than two-thirds community to support Niger’s Ostrich supported by the Association of of the remaining wild addax Research Recovery Program. Zoos and Aquariums accredited population and shelters a host of zoos,” said Center Director Bill other rare species. Houston, who is also Assistant Bill Houston 28 Recent Accomplishments

»» John Newby, SCF’s Chief to protect traditional cattle tremendous pressure by maintenance and fuel costs for Executive Officer, was awarded grazing lands so that local others to join the war, all 520 SCF’s dama gazelle monitoring the 2013 Saint Louis Zoo herders were not compelled young Malian men employed program in Niger’s Termit & Conservation Award. One of the to graze their livestock on remained with the project. Tin Toumma National Nature Saint Louis Zoo’s Conservation lands the local community set In 2013, MEP communities Reserve. There are fewer than fellows, John has devoted aside for the protection of its managed to stem the tide and 300 dama left in the wild. more than 40 years to creating elephant population. One are now poised to deploy a They are scattered in small, a sustainable future for the impressive outcome of the specially-trained, anti-poaching isolated herds in and around wildlife and people of the community approach the MEP team, established with the Mali the Sahara. With support from Sahara. takes is the loyalty engendered government and supported by the Center, SCF monitors the »» In the face of escalating conflict among the 520 young men numerous sponsors, including presence and abundance of in Mali, the Center provided employed by the project, all SOS—Save Our Species. damas in the reserve through support to the Mali Elephant of whom are prime targets »» In late 2013, the Center a network of camera traps Project (MEP) to build firebreaks for recruitment to the jihadist provided funds for vehicle operated by SCF’s community movement in Mali. Despite game guards.

Raising Awareness, Through a partnership between Raising Funds AZA and Microsoft, the Center The Saharan Wildlife Recovery provided content for Microsoft’s Center worked closely with the new version of the popular video AZA Ratite Advisory Group to game Zoo Tycoon that could lead launch the Adopt-an-Ostrich to additional funding for addax Program for SCF. By early 2013, conservation by SCF. Microsoft this program has raised nearly is featuring the addax as one of $35,000 from 21 partner zoos its conservation causes. Every to support the acquisition, care month, the online gaming and feeding of the birds at SCF’s community is presented an in- ostrich recovery center in Kellé, game challenge to meet specific Niger. In December 2013, SCF population management goals for staff discovered that two different a featured endangered species. ostrich pairs were incubating If gamers hit specific benchmarks, more than 20 eggs in Kellé. Now Microsoft provides real-life funds there are 10 chicks. for that species’ conservation. This partnership may increase SCF works with the community in Kellé, Niger, to build ostrich pens for captive The Center annually provides awareness (plus funding) for breeding of ostriches for reintroduction in the future. communications and website SCF’s addax conservation support for SCF to raise program. awareness through its newsletter The first-of-its-kind public-private for Saharan red-necked ostrich Sandscript and its content-rich partnership that SCF launched in includes the Center as its first zoo website, saharaconservation.org. Niger to create a breeding center partner.

29 Center for Conservation in Western Asia

Growth of scope and impact was work involves pursuing targeted the 2013 story for this Center, goals established in the renamed to include conservation “Ecoregion Conservation Plan both of the Armenian viper, for the Caucasus” and building its initial focus, as well as for partnerships with organizations other endangered species in working in the region to solve Armenia and neighboring economic and ecological Core Mission Western Asian countries. problems in rural communities. This biological crossroads between Europe and Asia The Center is dedicated to Two New Reserves Established includes such species as the In expanding its mission, the creating a sustainable future Caucasian leopard, Bezoar goat, Center is building on its success for the biodiversity and people Armenian mouflon (sheep), in providing extensive research inhabiting Armenia and Caucasian black grouse, Kaiser’s that supported Armenia’s surrounding nations in Western spotted newt, eight species of expansion of existing protected Asia and to assisting with wildlife mountain viper and multiple areas and the establishment of monitoring/census programs and species of shield-headed vipers. two new reserves to help ensure development of conservation survival of the Armenian viper. management strategies for Three of the 34 Biodiversity This species experienced an 88 threatened and endangered Hotspots designated by Center Director Dr. Jeff Ettling (left) percent decrease in numbers over species in these nations. Conservation International are and Dr. Levon Aghasyan safely bag found in Western Asia—they are an Armenian viper using snake tongs. the past 20 years, due to habitat home to large percentages of The Center’s research team has used loss, overharvesting of fuel wood plant and animal biodiversity radio-telemetry to study the spatial and livestock overgrazing. ecology and habitat preferences of and subject to the dangers of “The Saint Louis Zoo has become the Armenian viper. overgrazing, mining, agricultural a highly trusted conservation development, poaching and political instability and a lack of partner of the Armenian Ministry overharvesting of timber. conservation expertise. of Nature Protection,” said Center In addition to Armenia, the As a result, the Center’s goal Director Jeff Ettling, Ph.D., who Center now covers Cyprus, Turkey, is to help these nations with is also Saint Louis Zoo Curator of Israel, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, wildlife monitoring and census Herpetology and Aquatics. “Our the Arabian Peninsula, Iraq, Iran, programs and with developing project’s success has been based Azerbaijan and Georgia—all conservation management on partnerships and friendships areas with mountainous terrain, strategies for their threatened established over the 10 years a wide variety of habitats, and endangered species. This we have spent determining Jeff Ettling, Ph.D. 30 Recent Accomplishments

»» A herpetofauna survey of »» The center began a project in »» Center Director Jeff Ettling, through extensive field research Shikahogh State Reserve and the eastern Aegean Islands of Saint Louis Zoo Curator of initiatives. Arevik National Park began in Greece looking at conservation Herpetology and Aquatics, 2013, and will continue for at genetics and morphometrics earned his Ph.D. from the least the next four years. (the quantitative analysis University of Missouri-St. of form, a concept that Louis; his Ph.D. dissertation encompasses size and shape) was based on a decade’s of the Ottoman viper. work to save Armenian vipers

Camping Trailer Provides Great Vantage Point The Center’s 2010 establishment of a base of operations—a camping trailer with a kitchen and sleeping quarters for eight—has provided a great vantage point for rangers to keep watchful eyes out for poachers of vipers, leopards, Mouflon sheep and Bezour goats. In 2014, the Center will be assisting with the development, fund-raising and construction of a conservation breeding center in Yerevan, Armenia. This new facility will focus on breeding 11 endangered native Armenian In 2010 the Center established a base of operations (center of photo) in amphibian and reptile species, Shikahogh State Reserve. This camping trailer has a kitchen and sleeping leading to the augmentation of quarters for eight. It provides a vantage point to monitor wildlife as it sits on the remaining wild populations to mountainous border between Shikahogh State Reserve and Arevik National Park. increase the genetic diversity of these species in their native collaborative initiatives with habitats. funding agencies to help address viper spatial ecology and mammals. With this research economic, social and ecological habitat preferences. Through and the publication of our In addition, researchers will also problems in the region. extended periods of time in findings, we were able to earn the be surveying and cataloguing all the field, we have been able to complete buy-in of our Armenian the species of amphibians and shed light on the impact human colleagues, who themselves are reptiles in the Shikabogh State modifications to the landscape very proficient in conducting field Reserve and Arevik National have had on viper populations research.” Park—a multi-year project. The and on their food source—small Center will also be exploring

31 New Donors from July 2012 to December 2013 For the full list of donors go to Mr. & Mrs. Gregory T. Dell Mr. & Mrs. Harold F. Hintz the 10-year report found at Mr. & Mrs. Tom DePauw Mr. & Mrs. Charles H. Hoessle stlzoo.org/wildcare. Sue Dexter Mrs. Barbara Hollenbach Mrs. J. Walter Adderton Dezign Worx Architects LLC Jared & Cortney Holloway Akron Zoological Park Mr. & Mrs. Mark A. Doering Mrs. Kimberly Hoormann Aldine Travel Inc. Fred & Bunny Drain Ms. Emily Howard Anonymous (2) Mrs. Shirley G. Durfee Mr. Jeffrey L. Huntington Mrs. Catherine A. Augustin Mr. & Mrs. Tim Eberlein Mr. & Mrs. Thomas A. Hutton Lucy E. Bailey EDSA Inflexion LLC Mr. & Mrs. William W. Bayer Edward K. Love Mr. & Mrs. Edward W. Jastrem Conservation Foundation The Behrmann Family Mr. & Mrs. David Johnson Mr. Charles A. Edwards Mr. A. Dale Belcher Mike & Tracey Katsev Ms. Patricia I. Emmerich Steve Bircher Mr. Glen Kemper Ms. Lindsey A. Evans Mrs. Denise Bouquet John & Salvina Kemper Martha & Frank Fischer Mrs. Margaret Bowe Mr. Gary Kinsell Fister, Inc. Mrs. Louise B. Bradshaw Jeremy Knoll & Sarah Smith Ms. Debbie Forbes John W. Brancaglione Lyda Krewson & Mike Owens Mr. & Mrs. William Forsyth Matt Brown Ms. Pamela S. Lombardi Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Fowler Build-A-Bear Retail Mr. & Mrs. Joseph O. Losos Management, Inc. Mr. Robert Fox & Ms. Maxine Clark Ms. Lesleigh Luttrell Mr. & Mrs. Robert Caldwell Frederick Pitzman Fund Mr. & Mrs. Paul E. Martin Kaye Campbell-Hinson Mr. & Mrs. Richard A. Frey Rosey I. Masek-Block & Phil Hinson Galveston Chapter of the AAZK Mrs. Sanford N. McDonnell Ms. Karla Carter Mr. & Mrs. Greg Gangel Ms. Melissa Meyer Emily & William Castle Mrs. Daniris Garcia-Rivera Milwaukee County Zoo Change for Conservation Donors Mr. & Mrs. William M. Gerlach Mr. & Mrs. Bill Moore Chicago Zoological Society William & Loura Gilbert II Mrs. Carol Moorkamp Cleveland Zoological Society Mr. & Mrs. Gregory J. Goellner Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Mueller Ms. Terri Combs Karen A. Goellner Dr. & Mrs. Philip Needleman Ms. Vicky Croisant Mr. & Mrs. Aaron B. Goltzman Dr. & Mrs. Elwood H. Needy Brian & Michelle Dabney & Family Greater Saint Louis Lise Alexa Newton Jerry & Barbara Dabney Community Foundation Mr. Charles O’Brien Zoo photos Aram Aghasyan, Ms. Sarah A. Dabney H2R Market Research Mrs. William R. Orthwein, Jr. Vicki Brown, Dylan Burruss, Dallas Zoological Society Ms. Michelle L. Haggard Mr. & Mrs. Tom Owen Bryan Denning, Chuck Dresner, Mrs. Richard A. Hamilton Suzi Eszterhas, Ray Meibaum, Ms. Ann Price Davis Mr. & Mrs. Kei Y. Pang Ms. Betty K. Haner David Merritt, Ed Spevak, Mr. & Mrs. David Dean Mr. & Mrs. Brian G. Pelcak Mark Wanner and Robin Winkelman Mr. Philip D. Hettema PGAV Destinations

32 Mr. & Mrs. William R. Piper Ms. Jane Poelzl Ms. Ingrid J. Porton Ms. Heather Purdeu Ms. Lois Raimondo Ms. Linda R. Reifschneider Rengats, LLC Annalee Rintoul Riverbanks Zoo Ms. Nancy Sachtleben Mrs. Denise D. Schaberg Mr. & Mrs. William Schafer Mr. & Mrs. Thomas W. Schlatter Ms. Nancy S. Schlueter Mr. Marvin Schneider Schnuck Markets, Inc. Sedgwick County Zoological Society, Inc. Alice W. Seyfried Mr. & Mrs. Nick Shelton Mr. & Mrs. Walter Shifrin Ms. Martha Skinker Mrs. Audrey F. Smith Smith, Moore & Co. St. Charles University of Missouri St. Louis AAZK Mr. & Mrs. Robert W. Streett Tarlton Corporation Mr. & Mrs. Steve L. Troester Tulsa Zoo & Living Museum Anonymous Mr. Mark Viets Mr. Franklin F. Wallis Debbie Weber Mr. & Mrs. Michael W. Weisbrod Ms. Patricia L. Wendling Ms. Ellen Wentz Mrs. & Mr. Ann G. Withrow Woodland Park Zoo Ms. Gina R. Wright Dr. & Mrs. Roger K. Zacher

33 YOU CAN HELP Together we have the chance Become a champion for the wild to make a lasting investment in through the WildCare Institute. preserving unique wildlife. There are few other places where your investment can touch the lives of wildlife around the world so directly—and so cost effectively.

For more information on contributing to the work of the Saint Louis Zoo’s WildCare Institute, please visit stlzoo.org/wildcare or contact our Development Office at (314) 646-4691.

34 35 Our Mission The WildCare Institute is dedicated to creating a sustainable future for wildlife and for people around the world.

For more information on contributing to the work of the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare institution, please contact our Development Office at (314) 646-4691.