QUARTERLY PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION OF AND AQUARIA

WINTERZ 2018/19oo quariAISSUE 103

SMALL WONDER HOW YOU CAN HELP TO SAVE THE ENDANGERED ANOA

Himalayan wonders INSIDE THE NEW EXHIBIT AT BIOPARC DE DOUE-LA-FONTAINE 1 A nature manifesto PUTTING CONSERVATION AT THE HEART OF EU POLICY Give your visitors a digital experience

Add a new dimension to your visitor experience with the Aratag app – for museums, parks and tourist www.aratag.com attractions of all kinds.

Aratag is a fully-integrated information system featuring a CMS and universal app that visitors download to their smart devices.

The app runs automatically when it detects a nearby facility using the Aratag system. With the power of Aratag’s underlying client CMS system, zoos, aquariums, museums and other tourist attractions can craft customized, site-specifi c app content for their visitors. 

Aratag’s CMS software makes it easy for you to create and update customized app content, including menus, text, videos, AR, and active links.

Aratag gives you the power to intelligently monitor visitors, including demographics and visitor fl ows, visit durations, preferred attractions, and more.

You can also send push messages through the app, giving your visitors valuable information such as feeding times, closing time notices, transport information, fi re alarms, evacuation routes, lost and found, etc.

Contact Pangea Rocks for an on-site demonstration of how Aratag gives you the power to deliver enhanced visitor experiences.

Contact us for more information: Address: Aratag is designed and Email: [email protected] Aratag / Pangea Rocks A/S developed by Pangea Rocks A/S Phone: +45 60 94 34 32 Navervej 13 in collaboration with Aalborg Mobile : +45 53 80 34 32 6800 Varde, Denmark University. Give your visitors a digital experience Contents Zooquaria Winter 2018/19

14 18 24 Add a new dimension to your visitor experience with the Aratag app – for museums, parks and tourist www.aratag.com attractions of all kinds.

Aratag is a fully-integrated information system featuring a CMS and universal app that visitors download to their smart devices.

The app runs automatically when it detects a nearby OBERWEMMER F facility using the Aratag system. With the power of Aratag’s underlying client CMS system, zoos, 4 From the Director’s chair 16 Breaking the virus stigma aquariums, museums and other tourist attractions EAZA’s Director looks back over a year of More active participation is needed if parrot viruses conservation and progress are to be properly managed can craft customized, site-specifi c app content for their visitors. 5 Noticeboard 18 The future starts now News from the EAZA community An update on the prosimian TAG and its new RCP

 6 Births & hatchings 20 The great coral challenge The latest success stories from our Member zoos As the world's coral reefs continue to decline, it is time to take urgent and decisive action Aratag’s CMS software makes it 8 Tackling tiger crime easy for you to create and update Dr Alex Sliwa explains the recent EAZA position 22 New directions customized app content, including statement on tiger crime Zooquaria talks to Eric Bairrão Ruivo, the new chair menus, text, videos, AR, and active of the EAZA Conservation Committee links. 9 Strategic thinking A new five-year strategy aims to protect the many 24 Ghosts of the Himalayas Aratag gives you the power threatened species of Southeast Asia A superb new exhibit in France creates a home for to intelligently monitor visitors, the elusive animals of the Himalayas including demographics and visitor 10 A manifesto for nature fl ows, visit durations, preferred As the EU elections draw near, EAZA is writing a 26 A meeting of minds attractions, and more. manifesto for a better world Reporting from the Second Joint and Wildlife Health Conference You can also send push messages 12 Picture this through the app, giving your visitors As we work to discourage wildlife 'selfies', should we 27 Managing populations valuable information such as feeding be cautious about the photos we take ourselves? What is reproductive management, and how can it times, closing time notices, transport help us in our conservation activities? information, fi re alarms, evacuation 14 Call of the wild A new EEP hopes to transform Europe's grey routes, lost and found, etc. 28 Top of the class population News from the latest IZE conference 15 Endangered enigma 30 A better LIFE Why the anoa has become a high-priority species How the FISH SCALE project took on the for EAZA conservation problems of commercial fishing

Zooquaria

Contact Pangea Rocks for EDITORIAL BOARD: EAZA Executive Office, PO Box 20164, 1000 HD Amsterdam, The Netherlands. an on-site demonstration Executive Director Myfanwy Griffith ([email protected]) Email: [email protected] ISSN 2210-3392 . Cover image: © of how Aratag gives you the Managing Editor David Williams-Mitchell ([email protected]) . For information on print subscriptions to Zooquaria visit: power to deliver enhanced Editor Joanna Swinnerton http://www.eaza.net/about-us/communications visitor experiences. Editorial Staff Katharina Herrmann, William van Lint The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of EAZA. Designer Louise Tait The paper used for printing is FSC quality (sustainable). Organic inks are used. Zooquaria is the quarterly magazine of the Plates for printing are free of chemicals. All waste is disposed of in an environmentally European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA). friendly manner. Printed by Euro Mail BV. Contact us for more information: Address: Aratag is designed and 3 Email: [email protected] Aratag / Pangea Rocks A/S developed by Pangea Rocks A/S Phone: +45 60 94 34 32 Navervej 13 in collaboration with Aalborg Mobile : +45 53 80 34 32 6800 Varde, Denmark University. FROM THE DIRECTOR’S CHAIR

The end of one year and the start of another is a time of also recently released. EAZA and its Members were heavily reflection for many, and I am no different. Looking back over involved at all stages of the consultation process and you 2018, it is sometimes hard to believe how much we have can find out more what the results mean for us on page achieved. This was a big year for EAZA and our Members as 10–11. Looking ahead, 2019 will be an important year our 2017–2020 Strategy truly came into force and we saw an for establishing EAZA’s credentials with newly elected expansion of activities across all our focal areas. Members of the European Parliament. Our article on the Addressing the focal area that aimed to ‘maximise the EAZA manifesto details the commitments that EAZA and conservation impact of our Members’ we saw an excellent its Members will be asking of candidates, and what they can EAZA Conservation Forum attract a maximum capacity expect from EAZA in return. of 158 participants. These participants represented five Last but by no means least, we have the focal area about different continents, with many thousands more joining on communicating our work internally and externally (and the livestream. Ample evidence was shared about the diverse hopefully I am doing my part in this article). In 2018 we conservation work of EAZA Members and in situ partners, as increased our activities and reach on social media; if you well as how to address the continuing threats to biodiversity. have not yet been featured in our ‘Conservation Database’ It is clear that many EAZA Members are excelling at snapshot or the ‘Discover EAZAs Members’ feature, please conservation and building strong partnerships to make a real get in touch and put yourself forward. Our ‘explainer’ videos impact. I won’t fall into the trap of singling out individual about the work of EAZA provide an excellent resource for use Members here, but I will encourage you to be inspired by the with staff, visitors and administrative or funding bodies. Our presentations still available on our EAZA YouTube channel. monthly eNews to Members seems to get longer and longer One excellent example of conservation impact that I would each time as we have more and more activities to report on. like to highlight, however, is our Silent Forest Campaign. Overall, there are many positive outcomes on which we can With its strong focus on the threatened songbirds of reflect, and I can’t wait to see what 2019 will bring! Southeast Asia and its multi-faceted approach, I am sure that its positive impacts will continue long after the campaign has officially ended in 2019. If you have not been involved in some way in the Silent Forest campaign so far, I encourage you to take part. I think it is true to say that the focal area that has seen Myfanwy Griffith the most progress is that of ‘maintaining healthy populations Executive Director, EAZA and individuals with positive animal welfare’. In my piece for Zooquaria 101, I wrote about our new population management structure providing a holistic look at what the roles and goals for populations are, and my delight at the approval of our first ‘new’ Regional Collection Plan (RCP) and EAZA Ex situ Programmes (EEPs). I cannot emphasise enough how much of a step-change these processes are for EAZA. Our Association was built on the collaboration and ‘EAZA spirit’ required by the original EEPs. It is great to see us respond to current changes and challenges by entering a new era for professionally managed populations. The feedback from everyone involved so far has been overwhelmingly positive, and I look forward to this continuing as we add more ‘new style’ RCPs and EEPs to the list. Our third focal area is all about representing the EAZA community with the EU and appropriate stakeholders. This year has seen us develop Position Statements on songbird trafficking as well as European commercial trade in tigers and tiger parts; become heavily involved in revisions to Animal Health Law; and engage with the European Commission about the requirements of the Nagoya Protocol. The long- 4 awaited results of the EU Zoos Directive evaluation were Aqua Medic www.aqua-medic.de NOTICEBOARD Aqua-Teknik A/S www.aqua-teknik.com Arie Blok Animal Nutrition www.arieblok.nl EAZA COUNCIL ELECTIONS Zoo Nutrition Conference, to be Beresford www.beresford.fr Elections for the EAZA Council hosted by Marwell Wildlife, UK. This is Billings Productions, Inc www.billingsproductions.com Brogaarden www.brogaarden.eu 2019–2022 are under way, and the premier forum for the sharing of Carl Stahl www.carlstahl.com National Associations and Members nutrition knowledge and best practice Clax Italia www.claxitalia.com are engaged in nominating in Europe and the Middle East. Crossborder Animal Services candidates. In countries where a Register at www.eaza.net/events. www.crossborderanimalservices.com National Association is also an EAZA Deerns www.deerns.com Member, elections will be carried out 25–28 March 2019: EAZA Education EKIPA www.ekipa.nl by those associations; this means that Conference, to be hosted by Skansen Fachjan www.fachjan.nl Fox Consulting www.fox-zooconsulting.com all Members in countries with a Zoo, Sweden. The event, until this year HMJ Design www.hmj-design.dk National Association Member of EAZA called the European Zoo Educators IC Eau SA www.iceau.ch should be aware of the timelines set Conference, will bring together KaGo & Hammerschmidt www.felsen.de by their association for nomination of educators to highlight the importance Kiezebrink International www.kiezebrink.eu candidates for Council, and for of the discipline in fulfilling the Lamartine Construction selection of the Council nominees mandate of zoos and aquariums, and www.lamartine-construction.com Lionhouse www.lionhouse.eu from the list of candidates by vote. will present innovative new strategies Marine Nutrition www.marinenutrition.com For Members in countries where there and tactics for achieving educational Mazuri www.mazuri.eu is no EAZA Member National impact with visitors and the wider Nieuwkoop Europe www.nieuwkoop-europe.com Association, the process is being led world. Register at www.eaza.net/ Pangea Rocks www.pangea.dk by the EAZA Executive Office. With events. PGAV Destinations www.pgav.com most nominations in from these PJA Architects www.pjarchitects.com countries, voting will begin in the 23–25 April 2019: EAZA Directors’ Ralf Imagen y Comunicación S.L. www.ralfnature.com New Year, and all votes must be Days, to be hosted by , UK. Rasbach Architekten www.rasbacharchitekten.de received by the Executive Office by With a number of key issues to discuss Ravensden www.ravensden.co.uk 4 February 2019. to help continue to shape the Ray Hole Architects www.rayhole-architects.com Results of the elections will be direction of zoos and aquariums, this St Laurent www.st-laurent.fr shared with nominees at the meeting, the most important forum TAA Group www.taa-group.com beginning of March 2019; however, for Director level staff, is a must- TVK ZooDesign www.tvkzoodesign.nl Zoological Adviser www.zoologicaladviser.com the nominees will not become attend for decision-makers. The last Zoologistics www.zoologistics.nl Council members until they are session of the current Council, the first Zooprofis www.zooprofessionals.de confirmed in their posts by the meeting of the new Council and the Annual General Meeting, which will Annual General Meeting will also take take place in Jersey in April. place during this event. Registration: Also at the beginning of March, the by invitation only (invitations to be networking and a full social schedule. EAZA Executive Office will contact sent to Directors in January – if you Registration will open at a dedicated nominees for Council to allow them to are a Director and do not receive an website in early 2019. put forward their candidacy for the invitation by the end of January, EAZA Chair. Any expressions of please contact the EAZA Executive 24–27 March 2020: EAZA Animal interest in running for Chair of the Office). Welfare Forum, to be hosted by Association must be received by the Apenheul Primate Park, the EAZA Executive Office at the 17–21 September 2019: EAZA Netherlands. The first iteration of beginning of April. Annual Conference, to be hosted by EAZA’s Animal Welfare Forum will be All contacts with National Bioparc Valencia, Spain. The flagship held in March 2020 – look out for Associations and with voting event of EAZA, featuring TAG and more information at www.eaza.net institutions in countries without a Committee meetings, plenaries, early in 2019. National Association will be handled by the EAZA Executive Office. If you have any questions about the process, EAZA IN IUCN SSC QUARTERLY REPORT please contact EAZA Director of Danny de Man, EAZA’s Director of Conservation and Population Management, and Communications and Membership Kristin Leus, EAZA Population Biologist and IUCN SSC Conservation Planning David Williams-Mitchell. Specialist Group member, have published a summary of the new EAZA population management structure in the quarterly newsletter of the IUCN Species Survival EAZA EVENTS – SAVE THE Commission. The autumn issue looks closely at the role of ex situ conservation, DATE 2019–2020 particularly the role of zoos, aquariums and botanical gardens, in supporting EAZA will be organising several IUCN’s work in species conservation. To read the issue and the article, go to: events during the course of 2019– 2020, including: https://www.iucn.org/theme/species/publications/ssc-quarterly-reports 18–20 January 2019: 10th European 5 BIRTHS & HATCHINGS

NEW ARRIVALS

BUSH HYRAXES AND GREY PARROTS ADD TO THE MIX AT OPEL-ZOO IF YOU ASK PEOPLE TO THINK of grey without any detailed information such laid some unfertilised eggs or did not African animals, they will mostly think of as age, previous husbandry or incubate, which was disappointing. But elephants or rhinos. But there are other socialisation. The behaviour of some finally in 2018 two pairs reared four animals that are grey in colour and come birds indicated that they had been kept chicks, and all of them fledged. In from Africa, too – and they can be a alone for a long time without any addition the bush hyraxes bred again, so great deal smaller and weigh contact with fellow birds, and therefore finally, for the first time in five long considerably less than an elephant. pair bonding in the flock took some years, both species have bred In 2013, Opel-Zoo Kronberg in time. Every now and then the parrots successfully within a single year. Germany opened a new exhibit for African elephants (Loxodonta africana) and with financial support from the zoo’s friends’ association ‘Freunde und Förderer des Opel-Zoo e.V.’ it also opened a new mixed-species exhibit for bush hyraxes (Heterohyrax brucei) and grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus). The hyraxes came from other zoos participating in the ESB and have bred every year since 2014. Most parrots came from private households or confiscations and arrived at the zoo

6 NEW ARRIVALS RANDERS REGNSKOV REGNSKOV RANDERS BUSHDOG BABY BOOM IN RANDERS REGNSKOV

IN THE 22 -YEAR HISTORY OF RANDERS animal keepers to do their job. To The general health of the bushdogs is REGNSKOV in Denmark, an impressive accomplish this, we have a backstage area also crucial of course, and good health is total of 45 bushdogs have been born. So where the bushdogs feel safe and can directly linked to feeding. Our bushdogs what is the key to our breeding success? enter voluntarily so that the keeper can are fed dog pellets in the morning and a Bushdog keeper for 12 years, Maria clean the enclosure without having to large variety of meat in the afternoon Arentsen, believes that several different interact with them. This also allows the – mostly served ‘intact’ with bones, factors play a part – one being the keeper to check the nest box without internal organs and so on. When feeding structure of the group. We currently keep stressing the animals. the bushdogs we challenge them to use 12 bushdogs, an alpha pair and their When the alpha female has given birth, their natural senses, logic and motor skills offspring. The minute we see a negative we try to disturb her as little as possible. instead of just serving the food in a bowl. change in behaviour directed towards the We don’t change the substrate of the nest This keeps them both mentally and alpha male, we separate young males box for the first few weeks, and a physically healthy. from the group. Also, it is important that surveillance camera allows us to follow If you have any questions about the enclosure provides a safe haven for the pups’ development without bushdogs, feel free to contact Maria the bushdogs while still allowing the disturbing them. Arentsen on [email protected]. BREEDING SUCCESS FOR

LIVING COASTS HAS ADDED ANOTHER BREEDING SUCCESS to The recent hatching is important because this species used to its name. Torquay’s coastal zoo has hatched a black-legged be common around the world, but this year its status has kittiwake. This is the first time that Living Coasts has bred this changed to Vulnerable due to a severe population decline. beautiful seabird, which is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN. Climate change has reduced its food supplies, so breeding It’s thought that Living Coasts is the only collection in the UK success and adult survival have dropped. to hold and breed this species, and only a few collections in the The UK breeding success has dropped by nearly 44 per cent, world have this bird. Living Coasts is working with the shorebird and the whole population has dropped by around 60 per cent Taxon Advisory Group to learn more about kittiwakes in zoos. since the 80s. With the numbers declining so quickly, it’s vital that we maintain viable captive populations and try to learn more about their behaviour, to help us protect them in the wild. The unusual name comes from its call, which is a shrill 'kittee-wa-aaake, kitte-wa-aaake' sound. Living Coasts was previously home to female red-legged kittiwakes; a pair of black legged kittiwakes arrived in 2015. They’ve established good pair bonds and matured and have now bred, which is great news. Staff are extremely pleased to have bred them and hope to continue to do so. 7 INTERVIEW Tackling tiger crime ZOOQUARIA TALKS TO DR ALEX SLIWA, EAZA FELID TAG CHAIR AND CURATOR AT COLOGNE ZOO, ON THE LATEST EAZA POSITION STATEMENT ON TIGER CRIME

Allan Muir, EAZA EU Policy Coordinator

AM: Alex, what was the catalyst for AM: What harm does tiger farming tiger products and the poaching of wild such a position statement? pose to tiger populations in the tiger populations. AS: Tigers are under constant threat wild and in human care? from human activity, chiefly the AS: We all know that tiger populations AM: What action is EAZA calling for destruction of habitats, hunting and are declining in the wild and that EAZA in the statement? illegal trade. A lot is being done to Members carry out vital conservation AS: We call upon the EU and national protect them, but at the same time we work, in our zoos and in the field. authorities across the EU to do three have seen worrying developments that The commercial tiger trade and things: combat wildlife trafficking more make this protection very difficult. In tiger farming undermines the ex situ effectively, provide adequate funding the European Union, commercial tiger management of tigers such as our to biodiversity conservation and ensure farms have been discovered that kill Sumatran and Amur tiger EEPs. The that tigers in human care in Europe serve captive-bred tigers in Europe for the shocking discovery that such tiger farms the non-commercial roles of education, manufacture of tiger products. Abroad, exist on our doorstep, within the EU, research and conservation breeding. governments of influential countries should be a wake-up call to everybody. are not keeping their commitments This has far-reaching impacts, not only AM: What else is EAZA doing to on prohibiting the trade in tiger parts. on us as the zoo community, but also counteract European tiger farming In the Felid TAG and in the wider EAZA on tiger populations in the wild. Tiger and the commercial trade? community we felt that the EU needed farming makes law enforcement very AS: Thanks to our rules and standards, to pay more attention to the protection difficult because it’s hard to know if a EAZA tigers are protected from of tigers in the wild and in EAZA zoos. product originated from a farmed or commercial exploitation. Our robust wild tiger. It also fuels the demand for record-keeping in ZIMS allows us to monitor all tigers in EAZA zoos closely. We can guarantee that none of the animals found in the Czech tiger farms came from an EAZA Member. We have also signed up to Project TigrisID, a DNA identification project being run by the Czech CITES authorities. When the EAZA Biobank receives a sample from an EAZA tiger, a small sample of the DNA will be shared with TigrisID. This will allow the CITES authorities to build a reference database of known lines of tigers bred in Europe. They are also working on developing forensic techniques to extract tiger DNA from processed products such as broths, wines and boiled bones. I’d like to invite all readers to take a look at the position statement on the EAZA website. Such calls for action need to happen not only at a central EU level, through the EAZA Brussels office, but also nationally through each and every EU Member State. We should make the collective voice of our community as strong as possible for the benefit of the animals in our care.

The position statement can be found on the EAZA website in the ‘Documents’ section. 8 LAWRENZ ARNE STRATEGY

PHILIPPINE CROCODILE © ASAP STRATEGIC THINKING THE ASIAN SPECIES ACTION PARTNERSHIP HAS LAUNCHED A FIVE-YEAR STRATEGY TO TACKLE THE PLIGHT OF SPECIES ON THE BRINK

Vickie Guthrie, ASAP Partnership and Communications Coordinator

Southeast Asia is a hotspot for species 1. Catalyse conservation – pinpoint species on the brink of extinction,’ on the brink of extinction. Across both gaps in conservation effort and work says Simon Stuart, Chair of the ASAP land and freshwater-dwelling vertebrates, with organisations to deliver targeted Governing Council, and former Chair a staggering 195 species are currently action. of the IUCN SSC. ‘We stand at a listed as Critically Endangered within the 2. Increase funding – increase support crossroads in species conservation. In region. Sadly, this will surely increase as available to initiate and scale up Southeast Asia, much of this is driven new Red List assessments are published. conservation action. by an explosion in illegal trade and These at-risk species are the focus of 3. Strengthen capacity – strengthen catastrophic habitat loss. However, there the IUCN SSC Asian Species Action regional conservation capacity is also a cause for hope and we must act Partnership (ASAP), which brings and leadership for ASAP species now if we are to turn things around.’ together organisations to mobilise conservation. Zoos and aquariums play a vital role conservation action. EAZA sits on 4. Promote species – bring awareness in halting extinctions. If your institution ASAP’s governing council, alongside of, and drive action for, ASAP species. has an interest in Southeast Asia, we IUCN SSC, zoos and international and encourage you to become an ASAP regional NGOs. AT THE CROSSROADS Partner by contacting [email protected]. ASAP is launching a new five-year ‘Our priorities over the course of this Follow us on Twitter @IUCN_ASAP strategy, which has four key focal areas: strategy are to put a spotlight on the and visit www.speciesonthebrink.org 9 EU POLICY A manifesto for nature AS THE 2019 EUROPEAN ELECTIONS APPROACH, EAZA IS WRITING A MANIFESTO THAT WOULD PUT NATURE AT THE HEART OF EU POLICY

Tomasz Rusek, EAZA EU Policy Manager

Protecting nature has long been close more powers, making it responsible to the hearts of many Europeans, but – together with the national it has not always been at the heart of governments – for adopting EU laws. EU policymaking. Inevitably it has The EP also co-decides on the EU’s faced competition from many other budget, scrutinises the work of the objectives that fight for attention and European Commission as the EU’s funding. Yet the mounting pressure on executive and ratifies international the Earth’s environment – including agreements and the accession (and the rapid decline of biodiversity – withdrawal) of EU members. Besides requires a much more sustainable these formal responsibilities, the approach in public policy. Striving for elected Members (MEPs) have a vast • Build on earlier efforts of the EP a healthier environment should not be informal influence in a wide range of in combating illegal wildlife trade, a separate goal: it should be a principle domains. which endangers populations of underpinning all policy areas. All this gives the EP a significant animals and plants and entire On 23–26 May 2019, EU citizens role in the protection of biodiversity, ecosystems. will elect 705 Members of the promoting animal health and welfare • Always consider biodiversity in the European Parliament (EP) for a and creating the right legal framework broader context, so that European five-year term. This is an important for modern zoos and aquariums. measures (for example on invasive opportunity for our community to Our manifesto asks the candidates alien species) don’t contradict global raise the environmental objectives to commit towards achieving these conservation efforts. and concerns that are central to objectives. our mission. Therefore, as we did in Commitment 2: Make the EU 2014, EAZA is publishing a manifesto Commitment 1: Make the the standard-setter for zoo and addressed to the parliamentary protection of European and global aquarium legislation. candidates and their political parties. biodiversity a political priority. The mandate of most of our Members During the 60 years since its The pressure on biodiversity is comes from the EU Zoos Directive establishment, the EP has evolved increasing and the international 1999/22/EC. It recognises zoos as from a consultative forum to an community is not on track to meet the conservation organisations that influential decision-maker. With targets it has agreed on. We are urging contribute to saving biodiversity each update of the EU Treaties, the the MEP candidates to: within and outside of Europe. It aims Member States have granted the EP • Ensure that all areas of EU policy to raise standards through national support biodiversity conservation, licensing and inspection schemes. making the EU a leader in this area. EAZA has endorsed the Directive, urged its proper implementation by all

10 Note: This work is supported by the European Union LIFE NGO funding programme. The European Union is not responsible for the views displayed in publications and/or in conjunction with the activities for which the grant is used. Member States and contributed to its HOW EAZA MEMBERS HELPED TO ENSURE THAT CRUCIAL recent fitness evaluation. EU LEGISLATION REMAINS IN PLACE Whilst the EP did not co-author this Tomasz Rusek, EU Policy Manager, EAZA Executive Office law back in 1999, its current powers give it various possibilities to improve The European Commission has concluded that the EU Zoos Directive, the its implementation. We are calling on legal backbone for zoos and aquariums in the EU, shall remain in place the candidates to: unchanged but that some Member States must improve its implementation. • Endorse the importance given by This outcome of the evaluation of the Directive was announced in the Directive to modern zoos and early November and is fully in line with EAZA’s Position Statement and aquariums in conservation, research recommendations. and education. During the two decades since it came into force, the Directive has certainly • Stimulate full implementation and proven its importance for our sector. It has contributed to the raising of enforcement of the Directive in husbandry standards and has, in general, stimulated the performance of zoos all Member States, and promote and aquariums in conservation, education and research. It has also allowed solutions to assist Member States in the EU to fulfil the requirements of the Convention on Biological Diversity which implementation is lagging. regarding ex situ conservation. Finally, it has been a valuable reference for • Recognise accreditation by EAZA’s own Standards and Guidelines – even though they are more rigorous associations such as EAZA as than those of the Directive itself. an indicator that the accredited The outcome of the evaluation can be summarised as follows: Members comply with the Directive. On progress towards the general objectives, the Commission concluded that the Directive has strengthened the role of zoos in conservation and has Commitment 3: Safeguard the increased the public awareness about this role. The national licensing systems, health and welfare of animals in although they are imperfect in some countries, ensure that all licensed zoos human care and in the wild. and aquariums take part in the conservation of biodiversity, at least to some We have been providing feedback extent. to the EU’s work on a new Animal On the specific types of conservation measure prescribed in Article Health Law framework to solve the 3 of the Directive, the Commission has concluded that ex situ breeding inconsistencies of health legislation and reintroduction, information exchange and public education have across the EU. This also gives us an been well implemented. In contrast, the Directive has so far not ensured opportunity to strengthen the already appropriate keeping conditions for all zoo animals across the EU. Other areas high health standards of our Members to be improved include the prevention of escapes, record-keeping, zoos’ and to ‘translate’ Members’ veterinary involvement in research, and staff training. expertise from the zoo to the wild. We In this context, it is worth noting that the Commission recognised that EAZA encourage MEP candidates to: Members commit themselves to stricter standards than those prescribed by • Support the formation of the new the Directive. The Directive has therefore an important role to play in bridging EU Animal Health Law to ensure the gap between our high-standard Member institutions and the rest of the high health standards for animals, sector that is not regulated by such strict rules. including zoo animals. In the evaluation results, the Commission is calling for the national • Recognise the relevance of EAZA- licensing and inspection systems to be improved. On the one hand, there based research and policies for has been progress in establishing such systems in all Member States. On the enhancing veterinary diagnostics other hand, these systems vary across the EU; as a result, the requirements of and care. the Directive can be interpreted and applied in different and not necessarily • Ensure that the animal health coherent ways. This part of the evaluation, too, recognised the role of legislation does not jeopardise zoo associations as a factor that can strengthen the efficiency of national animal transfers that are inspections. recommended as part of non- This was the first ‘fitness check’ of the Directive since it came into force commercial EAZA Ex situ in 1999. The EAZA community was closely involved in the evaluation by Programmes for population providing high levels of input to stakeholder and public consultations, management. contributing to a Best Practices document and sharing expertise in stakeholder meetings (where EAZA Members were the biggest group in the room). This The EU parliamentarians work in was an excellent demonstration of engagement by EAZA Members under our Brussels and Strasbourg but also in their Strategic Focal Area to represent the EAZA community at the EU to influence home constituencies, whose citizens relevant policy; we sincerely thank all who were involved. they represent. We encourage Members EAZA has been emphasising for many years that ensuring the highest and friends of the EAZA community possible degree of national implementation of the Zoos Directive is in the best to download the Manifesto from the interests of the EU, its Member States and the zoo and aquarium community. ‘Documents’ section on our website We will continue to work together with national associations and many and discuss it with candidates and other stakeholders across the cultures and languages of the EU to improve politicians in your regions. A printed the implementation by the Member States, with all the positive outcomes in version will be available on request conservation, education, research and husbandry that this implies. from the EAZA Executive Office. 11 ANIMAL WELFARE Picture this IF WE, AS ZOO PROFESSIONALS, PHOTOGRAPH OURSELVES WITH THE ANIMALS IN OUR CARE, DOES IT SEND THE WRONG MESSAGE?

Sally Binding, EAZA Animal Welfare Coordinator

The explosion of social media and died after being used for selfies by the consequential rise of ‘the wildlife beachgoers, and the death of a swan selfie’ – taking a photo of oneself was highly publicised after being pulled with a wild animal – has become from the water by its wing for a selfie. commonplace across social media In 2017 the Scottish Government platforms, with an increase in wildlife made it an offence to harass seals at selfies of 292 per cent since 2014 a haul-out zone in Aberdeenshire in (World Animal Protection). You won’t response to an escalating number of have to look far to find a photo of selfie-seekers, and Waterton Canyon someone sharing a frame with a wild Park, Colorado, had to be closed animal. However, the context and due to naïve tourists encroaching on therefore conservation and welfare bears. On 4 December 2017, social implications of these photos can vary media giant Instagram launched their hugely – from the tourist posing with ‘wildlife warning’ alert, alerting any ‘photo-prop’ animals and selfies with one of their 700 million users that animals in the wild (both respectfully ABOVE: AN ANIMAL MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONAL INTERACTING wildlife experience hashtags, including distant or disturbingly close) to the WITH A CHEETAH; BELOW: A MEMBER OF THE PUBLIC HAVING A #koalaselfie and #slothselfie were animal management professional PAID ‘PHOTO EXPERIENCE’ WITH A CHEETAH. banned. Dating app ‘Tinder’ closely capturing a privileged moment of their followed suit, banning tiger selfies as job role. However, when it comes to profile pictures. the superficial, face-value messaging after patient trust-building not only Conservation and animal welfare of these images, can we discriminate highlights the skill and knowledge of bodies, including zoos, are vigorously between a tourist’s wildlife selfie and modern zoo animal management staff, campaigning against selfies involving photos of zoo professionals in close but also can arguably raise the profile photo-prop animals; however are we contact with animals in their care? and appeal of the profession. ourselves, as zoo-industry professionals, Does the general public recognise the However, recent years have seen inadvertently validating this current different contexts or does the latter an alarming increase in the ‘wildlife craze and how can we ensure there inadvertently condone the former selfie’, which has fuelled both the is a clear divide between the two? and contradict the work we do to trade in ‘photo-prop’ animals in many Before posting any photos where we discourage wildlife selfies? tourist hotspots and the disturbance share a frame with a wild animal, it is A role within professional animal of wildlife to get that enviable photo. important to ask yourself the following management often brings with it These are not unfamiliar sights on questions: both the necessity and privilege of social media, and these photo-prop 1. How might the photo be interpreted working in close contact with wild animals, which range from caimans if it is not provided with any animals housed within our collections. and anacondas to sloths and bear context? Whether through training sessions, cubs, are often kept in extremely poor 2. If your image was replaced with veterinary procedures, educational welfare conditions and have been a non-animal management demonstrations or simply through poached from wild populations and/ professional would the scenario still the development of positive human- or removed from their mothers. This be ethically acceptable? animal interactions, photos with covert trade is increasingly supported 3. Does the image truly represent the animals in our care can be an by animal-loving tourists, unaware your profession with regards to the opportunity to showcase the unique of the cruel reality surrounding their management and welfare of that keeper-animal relationship that opportunity for a close encounter with animal? comes with the dedicated work of a wild animal. 4. Does the image truly represent the zoo professionals, as well as capture In recent years the frightening species with regards to their natural personal moments of achievement. increase in people’s determination behaviour and environment? The opportunity to photograph the to snap an enviable wildlife selfie rare moment when cubs has amplified, resulting in increased In short, it is up to us as animal-care are being handled for health checks risk to both humans and wildlife. In professionals to set a good example; so or the pride which comes from the 2016 a beached Franciscana dolphin if you have any doubts about a photo 12 voluntary interaction from a dolphin (Pontoporia blainvillei) reportedly that you take – don’t post!

POPULATION MANAGEMENT Call of the wild A NEW EEP AIMS TO IMPROVE THE MANAGEMENT OF EUROPE’S GREY WOLF POPULATION

Marc Enderby, Grey Wolf EEP Coordinator, Highland Wildlife Park, UK

During the EAZA Annual Conference the number of zoos doubled and the their visitors and influencing public in Athens, the EEP Committee number of individuals tripled. It will perception and opinion of this iconic approved the application for a new take time to compile this data correctly, species. The movement of into EAZA Ex situ Programme (EEP) for as it is fraught with inconsistencies, but Germany, France and the Netherlands, grey wolf (Canis lupus) and with that this is a task I am willing to undertake. for example, is a transition period, as the approval of me as a new species Right now, the data is purely on it is inevitable that wolves will find a champion to coordinate and manage the European grey wolf. However, in foothold within these countries. The this EEP. the future, all the subspecies will be success – measured by the resulting The application for the EEP followed held under one dataset, apart from the perception of wolves after an amount on from the new-style RCP workshop Iberian wolf (Canis lupus signatus), as of time – of this transition period is that was carried out by the Canid and this is a separate EEP. There is still a dependent on various stakeholders Hyaenid TAG in 2017. In the workshop population of Scandinavian and Middle (farmers, politicians, loggers and a comprehensive group discussion Eastern wolves, which will be part of the public). This is a highly emotive and defined the justification and reasons Grey Wolf EEP, and I will work closely political issue, which will need a clear, why grey wolves should be kept in with my colleagues to manage these. long-term management plan. Zoos will EAZA zoos. Although wolves in zoos The reason for including all Canis lupus have a pivotal role in the success of the have been monitored for several years, subspecies (apart from the Iberian wolf) species within these future range states. this will be the first time that the wolf is to allow the phasing out of certain population across European zoos will be subspecies or hybrids and make room for HEALTHY EX SITU POPULATION actively managed. the European grey wolf or regional wolf Wolves are not an easy species to subspecies. The roles and goals of this manage within zoos, especially the LARGE DATASET new EEP are as follows: European subspecies. Within the new Records of grey wolf in European zoos EEP I will be able to develop a species go back more than 100 years, dating STATE EDUCATION IN RANGE AND committee and bring in advisors to back to the late nineteenth century. OUTSIDE OF RANGE provide support for all zoos. We can Although I was aware of the challenges, Wolves in Europe are slowly growing improve welfare and husbandry for it was not until I really got to grips with in numbers. Because of this increase, wolves in our care by producing Best the dataset that I appreciated the task they are encroaching into their historic Practice Guidelines. Various workshops ahead. Using ZIMS for studbooks, I ranges once again. This can create, and will be arranged across Europe where identified more than 70 zoos holding is creating, issues such as human-wildlife wolf keepers can share their experiences more than 300 individuals of the conflict within these historic ranges. and learn from one another. One European grey wolf (Canis lupus lupus). European zoos are in an ideal position such workshop was held in the south Once I added the other wolf subspecies, to help ease this friction by educating of England in early 2018 and the proceedings from these activities will help shape the new Best Practice Guidelines. There is experience aplenty across the world with this species and it is vital that we tap into it. Although the grey wolf is categorised as Least Concern under the IUCN Red List, it still has a place in zoos. Not only can zoos achieve an educational role in reversing the negative perceptions of wolves in the wild, it also gives zoos the opportunity to engage and enthuse the public in the importance of conserving large carnivores and their role in the environment. As apex predators, wolves have a key role in the planet’s biodiversity. EAZA zoos, as conservation and education organisations, should treat the wolf as 14 the keystone species it really is. POPULATION MANAGEMENT Endangered enigma THE ANOA IS A UNIQUE AND CHARISMATIC ANIMAL THAT CAN BE AN INTRIGUING AND REWARDING ASSET FOR ANY ZOO TO TAKE ON

Marcel Alaze, Allwetterzoo Münster, Terry Hornsey, Zoological Society of East Anglia/Africa Alive! and EAZA Cattle and Camelid TAG chair; and Stuart Young, IUCN SSC Asian Wild Cattle Specialist Group

The lowland anoa (Bubalus monkeys and birds (crested macaques Daily maintenance of the enclosure is depressicornis) and mountain anoa and maleo are also endemic to the simple, although the animals should be (Bubalus quarlesi) are dwarf buffalo anoa’s island home of Sulawesi and removed from the area while cleaning species that are unique in that they are mix well with anoa). is being carried out, as a precaution. the smallest wild cattle species in the 4. Anoa are a GSMP species and are a However, most individuals are friendly world, reaching a maximum height fantastic example of a tropical forest and provide a good base for animal at the shoulder of just 1m. They are island endemic. Consequently, they training and enrichment in protected found only on the Indonesian islands offer lots of educational possibilities contact. of Sulawesi and Buton, and with fewer and are linked very closely with than 2,500 left in the wild, they are zoological institutions in Indonesia. ACTION INDONESIA GSMP classed as Endangered with a decreasing 5. Keeping anoa can enhance Action Indonesia is an international population. They are in an elite group fundraising for any Indonesian partnership coordinating the GSMP of 10 species (and one of only two conservation project, as well as for anoa (as well as banteng, babirusa species of Bovidae) to be managed having a huge research potential (e.g. and Sumatran tiger). Over 50 partner under the auspices of a Global Species genetics or behaviour). institutions are involved, combining Management Plan (GSMP), and at the the skills, resources and expertise of recent Cattle TAG Regional Collection CARE AND HUSBANDRY both the zoo community and in situ Plan Workshop the anoa was identified CONSIDERATIONS conservationists to achieve stable wild as a high-priority cattle species with Each anoa must have its own enclosure and ex situ global anoa populations. which EAZA institutions should with a minimum area of 100m² for each A major output of these GSMPs is become involved. animal. The enclosure should have a the production of breeding and transfer There are currently 49 lowland anoa good structure with places to hide, and recommendations, and in August 2018 being managed within the EEP in 20 a warm indoor facility is important, these resulted in the successful transfer institutions. There are some animals with an ambient temperature of at least of one anoa between two Indonesian currently available, so there is now an 10°C in winter time. However, they do zoos – a major step towards cooperative excellent chance to become involved adapt to colder climates and can also be breeding in Indonesia. The anoa with this attractive and endangered given access to their outdoor enclosure GSMP also supports in situ conservation dwarf buffalo. at colder temperatures. The boundary work in Sulawesi, including providing There are five good reasons why around the enclosure should be a training to forestry staff to manage collections should consider taking on minimum height of 1.6m. rescued and confiscated animals. this species: Anoa are intermediate feeders, feeding One of the goals of the GSMP is to 1. Listed as Endangered by the IUCN on more than 150 different plant species ‘reach a demographically and genetically Red List, the species is continuing in the wild. In captivity they are very healthy global ex situ population’ of to decline due to hunting as well as easy to feed; their diet is mainly high- anoa, with a target of 300 animals. The reduced area, extent and quality of protein grass or hay and branches with cooperation of all regions is needed to habitat. This is primarily because of leaves. Some vegetables and dry feed can achieve this target, and you can help land conversion to agriculture, as well also be used to enrich the diet. by becoming an EAZA holder of this as gold mining and other activities They are mostly solitary, and in charismatic dwarf buffalo. related to the collection of non- captivity are normally kept separate. You can also get involved and timber forest products. Recent reports However, this can vary depending on link your collection to this dynamic indicate that hunting for food is by far an individual’s temperament and in conservation partnership through the most serious threat. some cases, they can be kept in pairs, financial, technical, logistical or 2. With a height of just 1m at the but in general, they only come together scientific support. Please get in touch shoulder, anoa are the smallest wild for mating. Same-sex animals cannot with James Burton, IUCN SSC Asian cattle species in the world, making normally be held together, and this is Wild Cattle Specialist Group Chair them unique and attractive animals. especially true of males. When being ([email protected]) for more Added to this, they are found only introduced for mating, the pair should information. on the Indonesian islands of Sulawesi only be put together under supervision, Please contact the EEP Coordinator and Buton. and once pregnant, the female should and International Studbook Keeper 3. Anoa are easy to keep and exhibit. again be separated from the male. Gerd Nötzold (gnoetzold@zoo-leipzig. They can also be held in mixed After parturition, the female should be de) if you are interested in knowing exhibits with other species such as allowed to rear her calf on her own. more. 15 CONSERVATION Breaking the virus stigma WHY ACTIVE PARTICIPATION IN VIRUS MANAGEMENT IS ESSENTIAL FOR THE HEALTH OF THE GLOBAL PARROT POPULATION Simon Bruslund, Curator, Heidelberg Zoo, resp. EAZA Parrot TAG chair, EAZA Parrot vice chair and Veterinary advisor of the Parrot TAG, Sandra Molloy, Research and Conservation Coordinator, Dublin Zoo, Helena Vaidlova, Mada Avian Veterinary Clinic

There are more than 16,000 parrots in separate positive from negative birds false positives and false negatives. EAZA zoos. The Regional Collection within a population. The symptomatic It is essential to use accredited Plan (RCP) currently recommends or confirmed positive individuals are laboratories, and the Parrot TAG programmes for 79 species, and at least categorised as ‘Red’. Unconfirmed, veterinary advisors can assist in 18 of our programmes for parrots are untested or questionable results are identifying competent laboratories flagged as having direct conservation categorised as ‘Yellow’, and confirmed, around Europe. relevance. tested clinically healthy birds are • Collecting samples is invasive Parrots can be carriers of different categorised as ‘Green’. Essentially green and demands special skills. viruses, and contrary to our is paired with green, yellow is paired Capture, restraint and procedures to information for most groups of wild with yellow – or exceptionally with collect oral swabs or blood samples birds, we have a comparatively high green, in which case both individuals in parrots can be challenging if it is knowledge about these, thanks to the will be considered yellow. Yellow not a part of a regular routine. It is pet industry and commercial interests. should always be investigated further advised to use the EEPs or the TAG Various parrot diseases were well in order to achieve green status and to share experiences or even to invite known long before we knew which pairings may be delayed pending the an experienced colleague to help type of virus actually caused them, results. Red is only paired with red improve the routine. such as psittacine beak and feather with the exception of extreme welfare • The stigma of ‘positives’ in your disease (PBFD) caused by a circovirus cases. This is done on a programme- collection. It is understandable and proventricular dilatation disease by-programme basis, with the that zoos can be reluctant to share (PDD) now known to be caused by a consideration of housing with other examination results. However, a bornavirus. individuals with a different status on ‘Red’ categorisation for parrots in a We still have much to learn about a virus-by-virus case. It is important collection is not an indicator of good how these viral infections affect the that welfare and conservation or poor management, it might be organism, how the different viruses considerations are also taken into entirely a question of luck. The main interact with each other in certain account when implementing this thing is not to ignore the problems. combinations and why the different method. • We do not have all the answers viruses affect different species in When we know there is a problem, yet. There are still a lot of different ways. Obviously, certain and we know we can potentially act unanswered questions about how viruses have coevolved with certain against it, is it then not clearly our duty these viruses affect parrots. However, parrot species, perhaps in a specific to at least try to do so? In addition, we need to take steps now to limit continent; in such a case, when we are obliged to take all measures their spread and the potential exposed to a foreign host from a possible to ensure that these viruses negative impacts. different region the effects of the are not transferred to the wild through • Proper virus management is only infection become worse. introductions, as we anticipate more feasible if the whole population Conservative estimates suggest that active EEP involvement in parrot is tested. We expect 30 per cent 30 per cent of parrots in captivity introductions in the future. of our parrot populations to be are infected with one or more viruses positive. Many of our EEPs are that are considered relevant for SO WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES? managed in very small populations, population health. Several studies • Testing is expensive. Multiple and subdivision of these small even put the estimate as high as 50 per testing may be required in certain populations through a virus cent. Unfortunately, it is impossible conservation-relevant EEP management strategy will surely to determine trends in the levels populations, and zoos should plan be problematic. The best strategy of infection in zoo populations of such expenses if these programmes decisions can obviously only be parrots because our ability to perform are to achieve their conservation taken when the most information good diagnostics are constantly targets, which is in all of our is available. If a large portion of improving; therefore current results interests. institutions do not perform the are not directly comparable with those • The risk of false positives and testing, the management strategies performed just five years ago. false negatives. Variability in will remain ineffective. Other experiences have confirmed the types of sample taken (e.g. • Animal welfare considerations. that with careful and consistent buccal swab, cloacal swab, blood Some institutions are only willing management the infection rate can etc.), transport of swabs and to take certain types of sample be controlled and massively reduced. the competence of laboratories or sample a restricted part of the 16 The ‘street light method’ aims to carrying out the tests can result in collection as they feel this process has a negative impact on the welfare May 2019. Here we hope to present experiences. of the parrots, especially if previous case studies and to discuss different You can also monitor the Parrot testing has not yielded positive scenarios in order to develop better TAG workspace for more information, results. This can make population strategies and to test feasibilities. presentations and reference papers, management decisions more difficult Please join us in Berlin and take the which will be continuously uploaded as the infection risk from other parts opportunity to share your views and when available. of the collection cannot be assessed. Some institutions would prefer to see a risk assessment approach where the history and management of the parrot is taken into account along with the veterinary history of the parrot collection.

HOW DO WE WANT TO SOLVE THIS? The subject of virus screening in our parrot collections was first approached during the Parrot TAG meeting in Emmen in September 2017. Under the supervision of the Parrot TAG vet advisors, we introduced the problems with presentations by Julia Stagegaard from ReePark and Helena Vaidlova from Prague Zoo. In September 2018 in Athens, we initiated the first discussion round in the form of a workshop, and as we anticipated, there are many open questions, which are not easy to answer conclusively. The 90-minute workshop with both veterinarians and population managers in the room did provide us with a clear direction and confirmed that the membership wants to pursue a pragmatic and realistic management strategy for viral infections in our parrot collections. Our goals are to develop an open dialogue and to produce a COMMON QUESTIONS AND SOME ANSWERS: guidance document for standards • Are parrots carrying more diseases than other bird species? Very of management. We also encourage unlikely, we just happen to know more about the diseases in parrots. each EEP to adopt a policy on virus • If a bird is positive, should it be euthanised? Positive birds can still management in their population, participate actively in breeding programmes. Borna virus is not very promoting successful virus virulent and there have been cases of positive parents rearing their management across EAZA institutions. own young, which turned out negative after several tests. Decisions to Above all, we must break the euthanise EEP species should include consultation with the coordinator stigma about positive results; ignoring responsible. the problem will surely not make it • Are there risks from feral free-flying ring-necked parakeets and monk disappear. A positive population in parakeets? Very little seems to be known about this. The Parrot TAG a zoo is not automatically a disaster. would welcome studies of pathogens in feral parrots around zoos. Zoos willing to hold or even breed • Should post-mortems of parrots include checking for viruses even with positive, clinically healthy birds if the cause of death is very obvious (e.g. trauma)? Yes, as the parrot and then test the offspring will make might have been impacted by an underlying illness, which led to the a huge contribution to the overall cause of death. Every viral test helps us understand more about the management strategy. infections. Ideally, all dead parrots, embryos and non-developed eggs If you have had experiences, good or should be tested. bad, regarding virus infections in your • Will reducing the encounter rates with viral diseases reduce the zoo, the Parrot TAG is keen to hear effectiveness of the immune systems of parrots in our collections? about them. Certainly not. Recommended screening is focused on only a few viruses Our next discussion forum will (and chlamydia), which are dangerous for parrot populations. There are be during the BirdTAG’s mid-year many other less virulent pathogens to keep the immune system of parrots effective. meeting in Berlin, between 15 and 19 17 POPULATION MANAGEMENT The future starts now ZOOQUARIA TALKS TO ACHIM JOHANN, TAG CHAIR AND DIRECTOR OF RHEINE ZOO, ABOUT THE PROSIMIAN TAG AND ITS RECENTLY COMPLETED NEW REGIONAL COLLECTION PLAN

Katharina Hermann, EAZA Animal Programmes and Conservation Coordinator and David Williams-Mitchell EAZA Director of Communications and Membership

KH: Achim, the Prosimian TAG picture through the lens of the mission rubriventer) and Red-ruffed lemur EEP finished its Regional Collection Plan statement, with the help of some great (Varecia rubra). Other roles included ex (RCP) earlier this year. Can you tell us facilitators. situ and in situ training and research (e.g. how you found the process? the Greater bamboo lemur EEP, Prolemur AJ: The Prosimian TAG – representing Prosimian TAG mission statement simus), conservation education in range the EAZA zoos, of course - has Based on expertise in professional (e.g. the Aye aye EEP, Daubentonia potentially more than 100 species husbandry and science-based madagascariensis) and population to choose from. We pre-selected 51 population management, the EAZA restoration (e.g. the Crowned sifaka EEP, species to plan for, which was quite Prosimian TAG safeguards a diversity Propithecus coronatus). The conservation challenging enough! We realised and of prosimian species in zoos (ex situ education angle in range is particularly were satisfied that we had not lost any facilities) – primarily in EAZA but also important, as many local populations taxa from EAZA collections in the last in the animals’ native countries – with are unaware that lemurs occur only 20 years, even though we recognise the goals of enhancing the in situ on Madagascar and have no real that we don’t have the space to conservation of prosimians directly understanding of potential extinction. maintain sustainable populations for and indirectly through research and all of them. However, it supported our educating and inspiring people. KH: How do you aim to deal with the philosophy that we shouldn’t give up issues identified in the RCP? on preserving populations of the largest DWM: So what are the main AJ: Luckily, the TAG is blessed to have possible range of prosimians, and I think changes that the RCP identified and some great volunteers to work on that this approach was proven to be recommended for the TAG? projects; for example, Margaux Pizzo correct when we reviewed it during AJ: The RCP undoubtedly has led to the (Besancon) is one of the active TAG the RCP process. That said, with all of conversion of some of our ESBs to EEPs, advisors and will be responsible for the pressures on prosimian species and with no major change of goals across coordinating the Mon-P species. We all the often bleak perspectives for their most of the species for the time being will be working together to ensure that conservation, the RCP process was, in a – primarily because what is needed all the EEP coordinators will be able to way, also a valuable opportunity to do from these programmes continues work towards the RCP goals over the a thorough appraisal of our work with to be the support of conservation in long term. This is especially important as prosimians in the past and work out a range and the preservation of insurance we complete more LTMPs in the coming clear direction for the future. All told, it populations. For the ring-tailed lemur years. was a very rewarding process, and one I (Lemur catta) the goal has changed. This One of the other major issues is space can recommend to all EAZA TAGs. species, which is very well known in zoos – it’s very difficult to set priorities for and in the media, has been regarded such a large number of species when DWM: What would you say were the so far as the flagship species for all the we know we don’t have enough space main factors in getting through this lemurs. But ring-tailed lemurs are now in EAZA to keep sustainable insurance massive task in a reasonable time listed as Endangered in Madagascar populations of all of them. That said, frame? because the conservation situation we realise that ex situ conservation AJ: The contribution of Elmar Fienieg in situ continues to deteriorate. So, of prosimians needs to be a global and Katharina Herrmann from the preserving an insurance population enterprise, and that we need to EAZA Executive Office was especially in EAZA is now regarded as a priority cooperate closely with other regions important in keeping us moving and the species will be the subject of a such as AZA, and more urgently with through the process. As I mentioned, we Long-term Management Plan (LTMP) in ex situ facilities in Madagascar, too. learned that our approach was correct 2019. The main issue for us is time – now For example, in the case of greater – that we were right not to give up on that we’ve completed the RCP, we have bamboo lemurs (Prolemur simus), we any of the managed species in our care, heads bursting with ideas for future are exchanging animals with Ivoloina despite moves elsewhere in the global actions, but we need to find the time to in Madagascar, and the EEP is a key zoo community to limit the number of get them done. element in the in situ conservation of taxa for ex situ management because The RCP has recommended that EEPs the species. We are also exchanging of theoretical calculations on feasibility. be maintained for 20 species, almost blue-eyed black lemur (Eulemur The Prosimian TAG mission helped us all of which have as a primary direct flavifrons) between AZA, EAZA and to stay focused when discussing the conservation role the maintenance of a Madagascar, for this reason. The newly various species’ needs. So, in essence, viable insurance population; for example, established Coquerel’s sifaka (Propithecus 18 we were able to look at the global the Red-bellied lemur EEP (Eulemur coquereli) EEP will be managed in close KH: This seems like a very innovative approach. Do you see this as a model for other EEPs in the future? AJ: Definitely, where it is appropriate; we believe that the need to establish and fund ex situ facilities in range states will become apparent across a number of species and habitats. This, along with the exchange of animals between facilities, seems to be a real reflection of the capabilities of zoos to support the One Plan approach, and we look forward to seeing how this goes with prosimians so that we can report back to the EAZA Conservation and EEP Committees on its effectiveness and how to overcome some of the hurdles.

DWM: You mentioned some of the challenges of providing information to Malagasy communities about prosimians. Could you just recap some of the other pressures on wild populations, and give us your assessment about the future of prosimians in the country? AJ: The poverty of the people reflected in slash-and-burn agricultural practices and also more recently in bushmeat collaboration with the SSP, benefiting at some point in the future, and this hunting, creates enormous pressures. the global population and increasing our would be disastrous for the TAG’s work. More than 90 per cent of the natural contacts so that we can further improve We also need to ensure continuity on environment in Madagascar has been our husbandry and fundraising potential. our side; that is to say, that we maintain destroyed and species are surviving We’re also pressing ahead with a kind relationships with the government and in fragments of habitats. The political of informal global cooperation on the NGOs in Madagascar over the long-term. instability in the country means that we aye-aye. In all of this, the main thing The TAG Vice-Chair, Delphine Roullet, shouldn’t expect these pressures to ease we need to concentrate on is good supported by and any time soon. communications between the SSPs, EEPs by other zoos, is a key person in this role Nonetheless, the TAG is very optimistic and other partners, to ensure that we are and is very involved in networking with about the prospects for conservation of providing sustainable cover across the the important stakeholders. Doing this prosimians, and believes that the RCP widest possible spectrum of species. ensures that we are acting as efficiently will be integral to the success of the as possible, and that knowledge on EEPs and the wider collaboration with DWM: Can you tell us more about both sides is being retained within the Madagascar. Despite a large number of the TAG’s collaboration with the ex prosimian conservation community and species, and a very difficult conservation situ facilities in Madagascar? the wider stakeholder network. status, there is a clear vision of how AJ: The continuing collaboration with It’s also been essential for the future to to develop and ensure sustainable Madagascar is essential to the TAG and have the Ministry of the Environment’s populations over the next years. The to the RCP, but there are some major Director General of Forests, Eric TAG will prepare a presentation to issues to contend with. Robsomanitrandrasana, as a partner, promote the RCP among current and The aim is to continue with the attending meetings of the stakeholder potential holders, and looks forward transfer of animals and knowledge with group, but obviously, this and the wider to encouraging EAZA Members who the ex situ facilities in Madagascar. This retention of long-term partnerships with haven’t yet held these highly charismatic currently happens on a limited scale ex situ facilities in Madagascar requires species to choose species to help with – which is partly due to bureaucratic funding – this amounts to roughly the fulfilment of the plan and to bring hurdles on that side. While the recent €15,000 per year, which we need to raise more attention to the issues, more criticism of CITES regarding the export from zoos and private donors. The TAG funding to the conservation projects of rosewood has not been a factor so will be working to set up a fundraising and more expertise and knowledge to far in stalling these transfers, there is a body to gain support from zoos over the TAG. It’s an exciting time for us all, danger that the country might fall out the next few years to ensure the and we look forward to welcoming new of the CITES system because of illegal or continuation of the current collaboration colleagues into the world of prosimians questionable animal and plant exports with Madagascar. and their conservation. 19 CONSERVATION The great coral challenge THE DESTRUCTION OF CORAL REEFS AROUND THE WORLD COULD BE DEVASTATING FOR THE FUTURE OF THE PLANET – AND URGENT ACTION IS NEEDED

Paul Pearce-Kelly, Senior Curator of Invertebrates, Lower Vertebrates and Research, ZSL

The severity of threat that climate including unsustainable coastal years to sufficiently recover from mass change presents to biodiversity development, destructive fishing mortality events, the back-to-back and humanity’s wellbeing is clearly practices, sedimentation, fertiliser bleaching events have been especially demonstrated by the global-scale and sewage pollution and resultant worrying. Even if corals do recover, impacts on warm water corals and eutrophication. Some excellent they may suffer impaired reproduction, their biodiverse reef ecosystems. conservation initiatives, especially the increased susceptibility to disease Unprecedented back-to-back mass designation and proper management and compromised calcification bleaching events over the last few years of large-scale protected marine areas, ability. Their habitats are also more have affected reefs around the world show how well coral reefs and their susceptible to phase shifts from coral to and shown that even the best-managed reliant biodiversity can respond, to the a macroalgal-dominated system. reefs have little defence against such great benefit of local communities. Although the Paris Agreement’s heat stress. There’s little doubt that However, the latest mass bleaching 1.5°C target is the current policy without concerted action, reefs will events show that even the best- focus, it’s clear that even if the world’s be the first great ecosystem to be lost managed reefs have suffered some governments were to realise the to the world; but the positive news is of the worst bleaching. This clearly necessary actions to achieve this target, that there may yet be time to take the demonstrates that current global it would not be sufficient to prevent the necessary actions to ensure the survival warming of just 1°C is already too functional extinction of coral reefs. A of these invaluable habitats. much for corals to contend with, which global scientific assessment of climate is especially alarming when we consider change on World Heritage coral reefs TREASURE TROVES OF that the ocean will take several decades states that under emission pathways BIODIVERSITY to fully respond to current atmospheric compatible with the Paris Agreement, Today’s reef-forming stony carbon dioxide (CO2) levels, and CO2 concentrations would not return (Scleractinian) corals have been that additional warming and ocean below 350ppm until the middle of the around for over 200 million years, chemistry changes are already locked 22nd century, if at all. The inadequacy and although warm-water reefs into the system. of the 1.5°C target is also highlighted occupy less than 1 per cent of the The extra CO2 being absorbed by the by Steffen et al. (2018) who explain marine environment, they are the ocean is increasingly changing ocean how human-induced warming is rapidly most biodiverse of all our planet’s pH levels, which in turn is reducing approaching levels that may trigger ecosystems. Home to a quarter of all the ability of corals to maintain the positive climate feedbacks, which could known marine species, the number calcification levels necessary for greatly accelerate global warming and of species still to be discovered in countering the constant erosional its impacts. these complex habitats is thought to pressures of their environment. considerably exceed the known species. Ocean acidification poses as great CAN WE SAVE THEM? Reefs also support further biodiversity a threat to coral reef viability, and Concerted efforts to reduce local through their integral connection with projected impacts include reduced stresses to reefs through best wider ecosystems, especially mangrove growth, weaker skeletons, increased conservation management is essential and seagrass habitats. bioerosion and, potentially, dissolution to ensure these ecosystems can be as In addition to their recreational of carbonate substrates and coral resilient as possible to climate change. and tourist revenue-generating value, skeletons. There is also evidence that However, it’s clear that for coral reefs reefs provide a wide range of free coralline algae (the effective glue to remain viable ecosystems, it’s ecosystem services, including food that binds reefs together) is especially essential to return CO2 concentrations for up to a billion people, habitat for susceptible. to below 350ppm while it’s still economically valuable fish species, Increasing storm severity is a possible to do so (Veron et al. 2009). sand for beaches, and protection of further interacting impact problem This requires a rapid phase-out of thousands of kilometres of shoreline for the healthiest of reefs, but when fossil fuels, especially coal, along with from wave erosion. They are also a rich combined with the debilitating effects capturing CO2 from the atmosphere. source of new pharmaceuticals. of ocean acidification, a reef can be Although this is a considerable severely compromised. As if that challenge, there are some scientifically HIGHLY INTERACTING THREATS weren’t enough, reefs are facing many compelling CO2 capture proposals Despite their importance, around 40 additional stressors, including sea level such as enhanced weathering through per cent of coral reefs have been lost rise, changing ocean currents and the biogeochemical improvement of soils over the last 40 years due to a wide spread of deoxygenation zones. by adding crushed, fast-reacting silicate 20 range of interacting human pressures Because coral reefs need 10–20 rocks to croplands (Beerling et al. COMBINED BEFORE AND AFTER MASS BLEACHING AMERICAN SAOMOA; BELOW: NOT JUST CORAL. CLOWNFISH ON BLEACHED ANEMONE GREAT BARRIER REEF FEBRUARY 2017

ourselves the best chance of saving most major ecosystems, along with our coastal cities and socioeconomic wellbeing. Conversely, if the reefs are allowed to become functionally extinct, we’ll have committed ourselves to truly unmanageable climate change impacts to biodiversity and humanity alike. There’s every incentive therefore to do our collective best to ensure the necessary action is taken while there’s still time.

REFERENCES • Beerling et al. (2018). Farming with crops and rocks to address global climate, food and soil security. Nature Plants 4:138–147. • Franks et al. (2018). Mobilizing domestic 2018) which, if carried out at sufficient reefs and to channel their policy- resources for the Agenda 2030 via carbon pricing. scale, has the potential to both reduce influencing power to demand essential Nature Sustainability 1:350–357. atmospheric CO2 levels and counter mitigation policy action. • Heron et al. (2017). Impacts of Climate Change the effects of ocean acidification while Beyond our public engagement on World Heritage Coral Reefs: A First Global greatly improving agricultural systems. and policy-influencing role, we Scientific Assessment. Paris UNESCO World Such actions may sound far removed are ideally placed to advance coral Heritage Centre. from our usual conservation focus, but conservation efforts through ex situ these are the kind of mitigation policy coral reproduction initiatives, such FURTHER READING considerations we need to be aware of as the Project Coral programme by • Hoegh-Guldberg (2017). Coral Reef Ecosystems and potentially advocating for if there the Horniman Museum in the UK under Climate Change and Ocean Acidification. is to be any chance of meeting the and international collaborators. We Frontiers in Marine Science 4:158. coral reef conservation challenge. also need to ensure that as many • Steffenet al. (2018). Trajectories of the Earth With our hundreds of millions of of our coral species as possible are System in the Anthropocene. Proceedings of the visitors, our international aquarium cryopreserved in facilities such as the National Academy of Science, 14 August 2018, and zoo community has a vital EAZA Biobank. Both of these actions 115:33. role to play in raising awareness of will be assisted by the clearing up of • Veron et al. (2009). The coral reef crisis: The these threat realities and response current taxonomic knowledge gaps in critical importance of <350 ppm CO2. Marine imperatives. We need to alert our collection inventories. Pollution Bulletin 58:10. visitors to the fact that current climate Because they are so sensitive to • See also WAZA’s climate change Position change mitigation commitments climate change, if we can ensure a Statement and Emergency Resolution at www.

THE OCEAN AGENCY XL CATLIN SAEVIEW SURVEY CORAL REEF IMAGE BANK IMAGE REEF SAEVIEW SURVEY CORAL CATLIN XL AGENCY OCEAN THE fall far short of what’s necessary for future for coral reefs, we’ll also give waza.org. 21 INTERVIEW

New directions ZOOQUARIA TALKS TO ERIC BAIRRÃO RUIVO, DIRECTOR OF SCIENCE, COLLECTION AND CONSERVATION AT BEAUVAL ZOO, AND THE NEW CHAIR OF THE EAZA CONSERVATION COMMITTEE

David Williams-Mitchell, EAZA Director of Communications and Membership

DWM: Eric, you were appointed Guidelines on the Definition of a EBR: Let’s start with what I see as the new Chair of the Conservation Direct Contribution to Conservation, being one of the most difficult: I Committee at the Conservation for example. believe strongly that the Conservation Forum in Tallinn earlier this year. EBR: Sure, but I think we need to look Committee needs to be a Standing Could you tell us more about the objectively at the Database – it took a Committee of the Association. background to your appointment? long time to come to fruition after we Conservation is a key part of our EBR: I have been a member of the had decided that we needed one, and mission; indeed, it is one of the four Conservation Committee for a long even now, it’s really not being used by focal areas of the 2017-2020 EAZA time – 17 years or so, by my reckoning! Members as much as we need; we can’t Strategy. More than this, if we believe The Committee has always been made improve our conservation impact if ourselves to be a conservation up of some great people, but I am not Members are not adding their data. We organisation (which I do), then we convinced we have always been as also spent a great deal of time discussing need to demonstrate to both our effective as we could be. This is the result the Guidelines, but it’s still unclear Members and the outside world just of several different factors: partly due to how Members will use it to measure how seriously we take this part of our unrealistic expectations from Members, their conservation work. So while I am work. It seems logical that the Chair of and partly just because there was a lot not sure that I am the most qualified the Conservation Committee should of work that needed to be done just to person to be leading the Conservation be part of the Executive Committee get started. I think perhaps we spent too Committee, I know I am good at getting alongside the other Members, such much time talking and not enough time things done, and I think that this is what as the Chair of the EEP Committee. If doing, and I am as guilty as anyone. the Committee was looking for. we believe that the goal of population management and the care of animals DWM: There have been some DWM: So what are your priorities at zoos and aquariums is partly to important developments though: for the Committee over the next few support conservation, then I would 22 the Conservation Database and the years? think that a conservation voice on the action from Members. To do this, we’ll and positions with the public and other be holding a Committee workshop in stakeholders. March 2019, which will look at some I dream of being able to do a actions and how to finance them. worldwide campaign on the issue of the wildlife trade, involving institutions and DWM: So what sort of changes will organisations of all kinds to finally get a the Terms of Reference suggest? handle on this unnecessary and horribly EBR: I think we should look, for destructive activity. example, at the Working Groups that the Committee oversees. Currently, we DWM: It strikes me that you believe have a Palm Oil Working Group and that conservation needs to be led a Reintroduction and Translocation by action on human influences on Working Group. I personally find that the natural world. Would you say the remit of the Palm Oil Working that’s an accurate reflection of your Group is a little reductive. Palm oil is philosophy? only one problem in a portfolio of EBR: Absolutely correct. You simply can’t human agricultural issues harming solve issues of species conservation nature, which also includes soy and without seeking solutions to the beef production. So first off, I would pressures that are leading those species like to see the Palm Oil Working Group towards extinction. I believe that the zoo become a Sustainable Agriculture and aquarium community can have an Working Group, which would look at impact on people’s behaviour, and on these issues and help EAZA to formulate the political process – this is the level at a workable response that supports our which we can make a real difference. I conservation work. am not saying that individual species For the Reintroduction and conservation is not important – it very Translocation Working Group, I believe much is. I just believe that there are that all reintroductions should be already a lot of conservation heroes approved by this working group before who are working in this sphere, and they go ahead – this way we can while we should support their work as evaluate exactly what it is that EAZA much as we can, we can most effectively can bring to a project, ensure that EEP help them by working to reduce the animals that are reintroduced are the impact of humans on those ecosystems most suitable animals and so on. It’s through good educational engagement. just a question of tightening up the Let me say that I think education is David Williams-Mitchell, EAZA Director of Communications and Membership oversight we have with these projects, a vital part of our work and one that and making sure that we act in concert deserves attention; I would like to see Executive Committee would be an and with maximum impact. more engagement in the Committee, important addition; not only that, but On top of these changes to the for example, with education and I think also that an increased emphasis existing Working Groups, I would communications professionals among on conservation within the Association like to see two additional Working our Members, who I think can do a great and its structures would encourage Groups established. The first would deal of good with their skill sets. Members to strive to have more impact look at many of the other human Also key to this will be continued on conservation both individually and issues affecting conservation, which partnerships, such as with IUCN, who together. I would group under the heading have a huge political influence, and of a Sustainable Industry Working with the EU; after all, we are both DWM: How do you think you might Group. This group would look at how committed to future generations. I think be able to achieve this? EAZA should respond to issues such as what we are realising at the moment EBR: Well, I think there are several sustainable fishing, plastics production is that EVERYTHING we do is related steps to take. The first is to work on and so on, and would inform how we to conservation – and we will see the Committee itself. I believe that you present these issues in an educational more and more people coming to the need to inspire change by making context in zoos and aquariums. Committee for advice on issues ranging changes. In terms of the Committee, this The other working group I would from the killing of migratory birds in the means adding new Members alongside like to see established is a Wildlife Trade Mediterranean to sustainable industry. some familiar faces, the idea being to Working Group. The trade of animals We will need to look at where we can build a strong team that is skilled in and animal parts places a huge pressure make the biggest difference, but I hope conservation but also very active. on the natural world, as we have seen that we can build an even stronger voice We’ll also need to look at the Terms of from the Silent Forest campaign, the for the zoo and aquarium community Reference for the Committee, with the Bushmeat campaign and so on. I think in the world of conservation – there’s aim of setting up a structure that will we can do a lot of good by being active a lot of potential for us to make a real allow us to find ways to get practical in this area and sharing our findings difference. EXHIBITS

Ghosts of the Himalayas A NEW EXHIBIT AT BIOPARC DE DOUE-LA-FONTAINE HOSTS SEVERAL SPECIES THAT IN THE WILD ARE ELUSIVE GHOSTS THAT HAUNT THE INHOSPITABLE HIMALAYAN PEAKS

Peggy Lavergne, Education and Conservation Manager, BioParc Doué la Fontaine

In 2017, the Bioparc de Doué-la- landscape is a 4,000 m² amphitheatre illustrating the strong link between Fontaine in France opened a new hewn out of the rock, giving a new herbivores, carnivores and scavengers 11,000 m² space based on a Eurasian dimension to vulture feeding time and in mountain territory. theme. Gathering connected species providing ideal conditions for building With this new creation, the through their food chain and original nests and producing chicks to be Bioparc is once more confirming its habitat, the ‘Ghosts of the Himalayas’ reintroduced in the wild. commitment to the safeguarding of exhibit is now home to snow leopards This extension is designed to be endangered species. As the first zoo (Panthera uncia), (Capra discovered on two different levels to have reintroduced vultures in falconeri heptneri), marmots (Marmota by our visitors. The first discovery 1983 and to have welcomed snow Himalayana) and a group of griffon leads visitors through 200 metres of leopards in France in 1985, we wanted vultures (Gyps fulvus), black vultures tunnel to the low level of the vultures’ to give these species and the in situ (Coragyps atratus) and Egyptian amphitheatre. The underground passage conservation programmes we support vultures (Neophron percnopterus). offers ‘cosy’ views of the snow leopards’ in the wild their full scope, providing This new space is made up of several and markhors’ parks, but revealing more space for our individuals and quarries and chiselled cliffs, dug out only a small part of them. Later, at the highlighting our involvement in their of our limestone rock. Each animal higher level of the Bioparc, the visitors protection. enclosure is surrounded by fences can see these animals’ entire enclosures made from metal sheeting and stone and have an excellent overview and MARKHORS – AMAZING CLIMBERS boxes. The snow leopards benefit from understanding of this new creation. Belonging to the Turkmenistan an enclosure of 2,000 m², as do the Marked by several informative panels, sub-species Capra falconeri heptneri, markhors. At the heart of this craggy this path serves the ecological purpose, markhors are new in the Bioparc. We welcomed a male group in a steep area composed of two symmetrical and BIOPARC FACTS AND FIGURES connected slopes. Designed to welcome The ‘Ghosts of the Himalayas’ required nine months of earthworks; 65,000 up to 10 animals, this enclosure tons of rock and soil were extracted. It was designed by François Gay, and allows them to satisfy their incredible was inspired by the hexagon shape omnipresent in nature. Involving local climbing skills. With only 2,000 animals companies, the creation was directed by the Bioparc team. The project remaining in the wild, these ibexes, as development and realisation was filmed in its entirety for the French for the other sub-species, are prey for channel RMC Découverte, in an eight-episode serial. snow leopards. 24 KRYZALID) GAY, FRANÇOIS CHABOT, (PIERRE DOUÉ-LA-FONTAINE DE BIOPARC SNOW LEOPARDS – THE ELUSIVE MOUNTAIN CAT Our pair of snow leopards has moved to a new area five times larger than their previous home. This multi- layered mineral territory of 2,000 m² provides 10 metres of high gradient, satisfying the climbing capacity of these mountain predators and providing a huge explorative territory. In addition, a 10-metre tree trunk enhances the elevation, allowing the animals to have an aerial view over the Bioparc. A waterfall and a creek cross the enclosure to encourage the growth of a vegetal flow. Visitors can observe the leopards from different points, from the lower underground level and from a steel footbridge suspended above the cliff, which guarantees a spectacular if dizzying experience. For their welfare, the leopards have free access to their outside enclosure 24 hours a day. allows us to increase our capacity for We also support additional in situ taking in new birds. More young birds actions, awareness, feeding areas and VULTURES – THE SKY GLIDERS born at the Bioparc will be offered to local support. In Bulgaria, the Fund Built to welcome up to 60 vultures, associations responsible for releasing for Wild Flora and Fauna NGO does the immersive amphitheatre offers them in Europe, including the Ligue remarkable work: it aims to secure food the birds a huge exploratory territory pour la Protection des Oiseaux, the for vultures by helping farmers to create and provides a large choice of shelters Vulture Conservation Foundation and traditional breed herds, by replacing Peggy Lavergne, Education and Conservation Manager, BioParc Doué la Fontaine and nests dug out of limestone prisms. the Fund for Wild Flora and Fauna for free any livestock killed by a wild Shrubs and trees were planted to NGO in Bulgaria. Since 1983, around predator and by providing herding dogs. provide nesting platforms for black 50 vultures from the Bioparc have After it disappeared from the Balkan vultures in the near future. already been released in the mountains Mountains for 50 years, the griffon Despite the birds' wounded wings, of Europe, including the first black vulture was reintroduced for the first gliding flights took place and are now vulture to be tracked by GPS in the time in 2007 by FWFF. Six years later often observed by our enthusiastic French Alps (female Lucie, 2017) and the first chick was born. One of its public and team. The daily feeding time, the first griffon vulture born in the parents was none other than a vulture often presented in front of more than amphitheatre this autumn. born at the Bioparc! 1,000 people, is an incredible natural spectacle. Metal sculptures of markhors illustrate the link between herbivores SNOW LEOPARDS AT THE BIOPARC DE DOUE-LA-FONTAINE and scavengers in mountains: two of In 1986, Pierre Gay travelled in the Kashmir region with Helen Freeman, them represent dead animals and are the creator of the famous American Snow Leopard Trust. This meeting used as containers for meat. Griffon was highly significant and inspired his philosophy and conservation vultures, black vultures and Egyptian involvement. vultures are cohabiting with a breeding Since 2001, the Bioparc has supported the Trust at different levels. We pair of Alpine marmots, which have invited Brad Rutherford, previous director, to present the Trust at two taken up residence in galleries that they of the in situ conservation forums that Pierre Gay organised in France dug in the friable rock. (Angers, 2012, 2014) with EAZA. We have participated in the extension of the Trust zoo partnership programme in Europe. Our annual donation of €5000 helps 50 livestock herder families in the Gobi Desert in Mongolia. INCREASING OUR LINKS WITH Trained and equipped with spinning wheels, women can create felt NATURE Acting as a reception centre and in objects with the wool of the herd, which is sold at a lower price in its collaboration with local associations, raw state. The Trust buys and sells these handicrafts (anywhere from the Bioparc takes in only birds of prey Mongolia to zoos, the Bioparc included) so that the participating families that have been injured in the wild can substantially improve their daily life. In return, the entire community and that cannot be released because pledges to protect the snow leopards. The recent news proves the merit of their handicap. It is also a breeding of this collaborative work: the first National Reserve created for leopard centre, and was the first zoo park in conservation in the Tost Mountains of Mongolia is effective and the France to reintroduce its birds into leader, Surenkhuu Luvsanwin, won the ‘Conservation Champion 2018’ award from the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation. the wild for 35 years. This large space 25 CONFERENCES

EAZA vet advisors, illustrating the incredible joint efforts across breeding A meeting of programmes. A particular highlight was a joint talk by EAZA’s Baptiste Mulot, Beauval, and AZA’s Cora Singleton, minds San Diego Zoo, about mortality in Queensland koalas in Europe and A RECENT WILDLIFE HEALTH CONFERENCE BROUGHT TOGETHER ZOO North America, which illustrated the VETERINARIANS FROM ACROSS THE GLOBE TO SHARE THEIR SKILLS similarities and differences between the AND KNOWLEDGE two managed populations. The conference provided Veronica Cowl, Chester Zoo, UK and EAZA Reproductive Biology Coordinator and Katharina Herrmann, EAZA Animal Programmes and Conservation Coordinator delegates also with the opportunity to get involved with round-table talks looking at sharing veterinary experiences with the devastating elephant endotheliotropic herpes virus (EEHV), use of ZIMS Medical for vets, conservation work by zoo vets, and on balancing animal welfare with the demands of population sustainability. The conference also presented an opportunity for the EAZA Veterinary Committee to hold a meeting and to present updates from the EAZA conference to the larger European zoo More than 600 delegates from over 50 session concluded with a discussion on vet community. During the meeting, countries were welcomed to the city the challenges facing vet advisors, and important discussions were held to of Prague, Czech Republic in October potential solutions or action points to identify how the European zoo vet this year, for the Second Joint Zoo and aid them in their work. The workshops community can have a stronger and Wildlife Health Conference, which was were followed by an enjoyable ice- more succinct voice within their hosted by the European Association breaker evening in the National House regions, in Brussels, and ultimately of Zoo and Wildlife Veterinarians of Vinohrady, which allowed colleagues within EU legislation. (EAZWV), the American Association from all around the world to re-engage Obvious highlights of the week were, of Zoo Veterinarians (AAZV), the with one another following the months of course, the several social events, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife since the last conference. which included an opportunity for Research (IZW) and Prague Zoo. The conference was officially delegates to delve deeper into the 91 The pre-conference day was packed under way on the next day, following posters that were presented during the full of specialised veterinary workshops, a welcome plenary by Prague Zoo’s Poster and Pasta Party, the very well- covering topics such as advanced director, Miroslav Bobek, who attended student’s night out, where anaesthesia, cardiac disease in great introduced the audience to the zoo’s delegates were able to let their hair apes, avian handling and wildlife rich history and its various conservation down, the zoo visit and dinner, a festive pathology. A particular highlight successes, not least with the breeding evening full of live music and dancing, among these sessions was the joint and reintroduction of Przewalksi’s horse and the farewell conference banquet. AZA and EAZA vet advisor meeting, (Equus ferus przewalskii) to Mongolia, Overall, a huge ‘well done’ must be which presented an opportunity for and Chinese giant salamander (Andrias given to the organising committee, vet advisors on both sides of the pond davidianus) husbandry and research. which comprised members of the IZW, to meet each other and share their Conference session topics included EAZWV, AAZWV and Prague Zoo, experiences of supporting their relevant anaesthesia, reproduction, wildlife and as well as the scientific programme population management programmes. conservation, ethics and welfare, as well committee for putting together a The joint vet advisor session began as various sessions dedicated to specific fantastic series of talks and posters, with an introduction to the similarities taxa. A particularly striking and unique and not least to the various reviewers and differences between the structure plenary on natural disaster management and session chairs. For now, we of AZA and EAZA population included a talk by Prague Zoo’s vet, look forward to the next AAZWV management programmes, and was Roman Vodička, who discussed the conference in St Louis, USA, the next followed by presentations on the various evacuation plans and aftermath of the EAZWV conference, and the first joint support tools available to vet advisors devastating floods that the zoo faced in ECZM/EAZWV/IZW conference in such as ZIMS for medical, the EAZA 2002 and again in 2013. Throughout Kolmarden, Sweden in 2019. For more Biobank, and a joint presentation from the conference there was significant information, please keep an eye on the the AZA Reproductive Management focus on the work of the veterinary websites for EAZWV (eazwv.site-ym. Center and the EAZA Group on Zoo advisors, with four sessions dedicated com) and IZW (www.izw-berlin.de/ Animal Contraception. The joint to the excellent work of the AZA and conferences.html). 26 BARRIENTOS C. EGZAC SUMMARY Managing populations WHAT IS REPRODUCTIVE MANAGEMENT AND HOW DOES IT COMPLEMENT POPULATION MANAGEMENT?

Veronica Cowl, Chester Zoo, UK and EAZA Reproductive Biology Coordinator, Sue Walker, EGZAC co-chair, and Yedra Feltrer Rambaud, EGZAC vice-chair

One of the ways in which zoos assist the that only 23 per cent were successful For this, basic information on species’ conservation of endangered species is (Faust et al., 2011). Thus in just over reproductive and breeding biology is through our population management a fifth of breeding recommendations, essential, especially given that species programmes, designed to foster healthy, the pair successfully produced offspring physiology and responses to breeding and sustainable ex situ breeding populations. within the recommended timeframe. non-breeding are almost as unique as the Ideally, these are genetically diverse with There are many contributing factors species themselves. Given the extensive low levels of inbreeding and minimal to the low rate of success; for example, knowledge that exists within the EAZA adaptations to being kept in human the pair may not have been in the same community, this presents an exceptional care. However, not all populations are institution, they may have been socially opportunity for collaboration across sustainable. They can grow too rapidly, incompatible, or one of the individuals institutions, committees, working groups exceeding the resources available, or may may have died. However, what cannot and regions. To ensure the welfare of our not grow quickly enough and therefore be ignored is that subfertility is also a animals and to remain at the forefront not reach the minimum number required contributing factor. of best husbandry practices, a holistic for a sustainable population management A general assumption in population and proactive approach evaluating the programme. For this reason, reproductive management programmes is that animals behavioural, social, physiological and management is required. that receive breeding recommendations pathological effects of breeding decisions The primary target of ex situ are fertile. However, in many species is integral. The use of tools such as population management programmes fertility must first be established by a ZIMS and the Contraception Database is not to have as many ‘hooves on the breeding event upon reaching sexual facilitate the systematic collection of ground’ as possible. Instead, the idea maturity, and then must be maintained vast amounts of data across zoological of reproductive management has been by continuous pregnancies throughout collections, enabling the analysis of adapted within zoos to include both the individual’s lifetime. For some trends across populations and the limiting and enhancing reproduction so species, pregnancies also carry a continued advancement of best practice. that we can meet the demographic and protective function for uterine health, This year marks the 10th anniversary genetic targets of each programme. preventing the incidence of various of EAZA Group on Zoo Animal While the need to limit reproduction reproductive pathologies. Termed ‘use Contraception (EGZAC) and the may sound contradictory to the aims it or lose it’, this phenomenon has been expansion of our remit to take a of ex situ breeding, there are many identified in various species (Penfoldet comprehensive approach to reproductive reasons to prevent certain animals from al., 2014). However, all species held in management. Given the wealth of breeding. It may be necessary to prevent zoos will not respond uniformly to these experience within the EGZAC working breeding between non-recommended breeding decisions, and understanding group on reproductive medicine, health, individuals, reduce the number of surplus species physiology and reproductive and fertility, EGZAC is increasing animals, or maintain family groups. biology is key to ensure that husbandry its support to include breeding Also, as conditions in zoos may allow practices are not hindering reproduction. enhancement, fertility assessments, animals to reproduce earlier and more Ensuring that animals in population reproductive pathology and basic frequently than their wild counterparts, programmes are fit for purpose is key. breeding research, among others. temporarily limiting reproduction While breeding recommendations The Contraception Database that we may decrease the physical burden of primarily focus on maintaining genetic curate with the AZA Reproductive continuous pregnancies. In zoos, limiting diversity, given the low rate of success Management Center will remain an the reproductive potential of animals between some recommended pairs, active part of our work, which we use to primarily involves the use of reversible a more holistic approach is essential. provide contraceptive guidelines to the contraception or separation of the sexes, There needs to be a thorough evaluation wider EAZA community as well as to although in some cases alternative of factors contributing to reproductive identify gaps in current knowledge. methods such as breeding and culling are success, including the overall health For more details, visit egzac.org or email chosen. In any scenario, however, the of the animal and its group, its us at [email protected]. impacts of the chosen techniques need reproductive history and health, its to be carefully considered, and the effects age and reproductive state, and the REFERENCES need to be evaluated holistically. behavioural, social and welfare impacts Faust et al. (2011). PMC Track, www. While sadly there are no published of the breeding recommendation. Also, pmctrack.org. assessments of reproductive success the effects on fertility of non-breeding Penfold et al. (2014). ‘Use it or lose it’: in EAZA population management and repeated breeding need to be Characterisation, implications, and programmes, a 2011 study of over 16,000 carefully balanced with the population mitigation of female infertility in captive AZA breeding recommendations found requirements for sustainability. wildlife. Zoo Biology 33 (1): 20–28. 27 Note: This work is supported by the European Union LIFE NGO funding programme. The European Union is not responsible for the views displayed in publications and/or in conjunction with the activities for which the grant is used. WELFARE & EDUCATION Top of the class THE 2018 IZE CONFERENCE PROVED TO BE AN OASIS FOR CONSERVATION EDUCATORS

Laura Myers, EAZA Academy Manager

In October 2018, Al Ain Zoo, UAE, played host to educators from across the globe for the biennial International Zoo Educators (IZE) conference. This was the conference’s first visit to the EAZA region since 2012, and the first time that the conference had been held in the Middle East. EAZA Members took full advantage of having a ‘local’ conference, and around 50 delegates attended from across our region. The theme for the conference was Culture and Conservation – Bringing a Deeper Human Dimension to Zoo Education. This theme was showcased from the very start of the conference, when the seven delegates sponsored to attend by the IZE modelled their national costumes (and shared some dance moves) during the icebreaker at Al Ain Zoo. Welcome speeches from His Excellency, Dr Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi (UAE Minister of Climate 'It's an experience that changes a person after Change and the Environment), His Excellency, Ghanim Al Hajeri (Director attending such a conference. It is impossible to General of Al Ain Zoo) and IZE come back to your zoo with the same thinking President Isabel Li (Ocean Park Hong Kong) kicked off a busy first day of and attitude you left with.’ – LINA, BURSARY RECIPIENT presentations. The keynote speech by Jamie Copsey (Conservation Planning Mager (Royal Burgers’ Zoo) shared with animals, and a lot of discussion Specialist Group) set the tone for the their experience of connecting a new about the challenges of working in conference, challenging delegates to mangrove exhibit in the zoo with a very multicultural environments. In a think about the cultural aspects of long-running conservation project in presentation that picked up on some conservation, and framing zoo educators Belize. of the ideas from the keynote, Simon as the new conservation project Day two started with presentations Garrett () challenged managers. from the IZE-sponsored delegates, whose educators to think less about wildlife The delegate presentation session work spanned both the globe and the and more about people, and to think on the first day focused firstly on zoo full spectrum of education, from teacher more carefully about how to define education and then on education in training in Guatemala to kindergarten the role of zoo education. Shamsa the field. Europe was well represented sessions in Vietnam. Several of the Alshamsi (Al Ain Zoo) gave all the in both sessions; Anastasia Kadetova sponsored delegates work primarily with delegates a taste of Emirati culture (Moscow Zoo) presented some in situ conservation, and this session and and storytelling traditions with her innovative and creative teaching the conference as a whole offered great presentation on the philosophy behind methods to make zoo-based learning opportunities for exchanges of ideas and education programming in Al Ain, more attractive, Katarzyna Walowska support between educators working in setting the scene for an evening visit to (Wroclaw Zoo) shared the outcomes the field and those based in zoos. a desert camp and the third day of the of their WAZA Nature Connect The second part of the day was all conference. funded projects to give young people about interpretation, with presentations Day three allowed delegates to fully the chance to connect to nature both on work done to incorporate indigenous immerse themselves in local culture, inside and outside the zoo, Antonieta cultures into conservation education starting with a visit to Al Ain Zoo. The Costa (Lisbon Zoo) shared preliminary in Hawaii and New Zealand, how zoo visit blended traditional experiences results from a new school-based to provide opportunities for all such as the Emirati welcome of 28 learning partnership, and Constanze groups of zoo visitors to connect gahwa (spiced coffee) and dates with EAZA EDUCATION COMMITTEE BURSARIES innovative experiences such as a safari This year, after a very successful conference of their own in 2017, tour, which recreated aspects of the which received some generous sponsorship, for the first time the EAZA African savannah against a unique Education Committee was able to offer financial support to educators Emirati backdrop. Delegates were also from EAZA Members to help them attend the conference. The committee able to fully explore the Sheikh Zayed agreed to offer bursaries of €1000 for first-time conference delegates to Desert Learning Centre, a state-of- be used to offset the costs of attending the conference. The committee the-art building designed to immerse decided to do this both to support the event being hosted by one of our visitors in geological, ecological and members, and also to support EAZA Members in fulfilling Conservation cultural aspects of life in the desert. Education Standard 15: Zoos should support staff involved in conservation Delegates were inspired with fresh ideas education in zoos to be actively involved in local, national, regional and (and perhaps a touch of jealousy) by international conservation education networks and meetings. the sympathetic design and interactive In total we were able to support four delegates to attend the features. The day concluded with a visit conferences. Two bursaries were offered to any educators working at an to the Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO World EAZA Member or Candidate for Membership, and the recipients were Heritage site. selected by the EAZA Education Committee and the EAZA Executive The final day of the conference Office, with oversight from the IZE regional representative. An additional featured interactive workshops on two bursaries were offered to French educators, and the recipients developing effective live interpretation were selected by the joint organising committee from the Association skills (given by Ann Marie Lisi from Française des Parcs Zoologiques, the Commission Française de la the Maritime Aquarium) and the Pédagogie Zoologique, and the Parc Zoologique de Paris. challenge of delivering important There were some tough decisions for the reviewers, as all the applicants but culturally sensitive conservation were of a very high quality, but finally the following four recipients were messages (given by Tomoaki Nishihara selected: Nóirín Burke (Galway Atlantaquaria), Lina Gediminė (Lietuvos from the Wildlife Conservation Zoologijos Sodas), Anaïs Frapsauce (Parc Zoologique du Muséum Society). The last presentation de Besançon) and Laetitia Lebeyrie (Parc Animalier et Botanique de session was focused on future goals Branféré). for conservation education, including Three of the bursary recipients had posters accepted for exhibition at presentations on creating effective the conference, and we were encouraged to see so many of them making behaviour change campaigns in an active contribution to the programme. Anaïs presented a poster on Zoos Victoria and Bristol Zoo; an her work to build closer collaborations with teachers, Lina presented inspiring example from Chester Zoo a poster about the conservation education elements of the European of conservation educators engaging Professional Zookeeper Qualification Framework, and Nóirín presented a with the One Plan approach as part poster on ocean literacy training for student teachers. of the Action Indonesia GSMPs; and All of our bursary recipients participated enthusiastically in every a presentation from EAZA Education aspect of the conference, and all gave feedback stating that one of the Committee Chair Sarah Thomas on most valuable aspects of attending the conference was simply being able how the 2016 EAZA Conservation to meet so many other educators with such a diverse range of experience, Education Standards are shaping and the opportunity to exchange ideas and to network was one of the strategic thinking about conservation biggest attractions of attending the conference. Nóirín told us: ‘The education in EAZA Members. The bursary provided me with the opportunity to attend an international conference concluded with a gala conference, where I got to meet professionals from all over the world. This dinner at the Al Muwaji Palace. was the first time in 10 years of working in zoo/aquarium education that Perhaps unsurprisingly for a I had this opportunity. It was a privilege to attend, and a hugely positive conference steeped in desert culture, learning experience for me both professionally and personally.’ the IZE conference provided a virtual Even in the short time since the conference, our bursary recipients are oasis for conservation educators. The already taking action based on their conference experiences. Lina tells combination of generous Arabic us: ‘Renovation is starting at our zoo and a large Education Centre will be hospitality, thought- provoking built. Our department must create a clear plan as to how this educational programming and motivated and facility should be equipped with interactive educational tools and other enthusiastic colleagues allowed resources in the near future. Al Ain Zoo, especially Sheikh Zayed Desert delegates time and space to reflect on Learning Centre, has very modern and interactive areas for conservation their journeys so far, and to refresh education, which inspired new ideas for our future Education Centre.’ themselves with new connections, Nóirín has been busy too: ‘Since the conference I have been in touch inspiration and support to continue with three other collections about collaborating on an Atlantic Ocean driving conservation education Project, Marine Litter Project. I have also been working with Debra forwards. Erickson (San Diego Zoo) to try to bring San Diego Kids [a free TV channel Feeling inspired? Registrations are with clips filmed at San Diego Zoo and other zoos] to children’s hospitals now open for the biennial EAZA in Ireland.’ We can’t wait to hear from them again at the EAZA Education Education Conference, which will take Conference in March 2019 to see what else they have achieved. place at Skansen in March 2019. Visit eaza.net/events for full details. 29 FUNDING

A better LIFE HOW ACQUARIO DI GENOVA’S FISH SCALE PROJECT TACKLED THE CONSERVATION PROBLEMS CREATED BY COMMERCIAL FISHING Dalila Frasson, EAZA Funding Coordinator; Claudia Gili and Bruna Valettini, Costa Edutainment S.p.A c/o Acquario di Genova

The LIFE EU financial programme EU nature and biodiversity policy. The FISH SCALE project has has been running since 1992 and This article highlights the FISH confirmed the role of modern zoos and has co-financed more than 4,500 SCALE project, which stands for ‘Food aquariums as important shareholders projects across the EU and developing Information and Safeguard of Habitat a for biological and ecological knowledge countries. It has contributed over Sustainable Consumption Approach in and for the development of social €4 billion to the protection of the Local Environment’. knowledge and awareness involving environment and climate, mobilising FISH SCALE, carried out from 2010 everyone, from producer to final over €9 billion in total. At any given to 2013, set out to tackle the problem consumer. moment some 1,100 projects are that the commercial fish market is The main objectives of the project ongoing. While all LIFE projects strive heavily concentrated on certain fish were based on the sustainability and to benefit Europe’s flora and fauna, species, and only a small percentage replicability of the project, objectives some beneficiaries and projects merit of edible fish species are currently that coincide with the basic philosophy special attention. commercialised. Non-commercial of the LIFE programme. As Joanna One example of how LIFE funding species are hence classified as ‘by-catch’ Drake, Deputy Director-General has been used is that of Acquario and are usually discarded by industrial of the European Commission’s DG di Genova in Italy, an educational, fisheries. This practice results in a huge Environment, said: ‘To show to the scientific and cultural body, whose waste of marine resources, alteration world what Europe has been doing…it’s aim is to raise awareness about the of marine biodiversity and reduction not enough just to do it, we have to let sustainable use of aquatic resources; of adult reproductive fish. The reform others know that it has been done.’ thanks to the LIFE funding, it took of the Common Fisheries Policy Marine biodiversity loss is a part in five cutting-edge projects aimed (CFP) of 2013 aimed at gradually complex issue. People rely on marine at the conservation of aquatic species, eliminating the wasteful practice of biodiversity for many things, including including common spadefoot (Pelobates discarding through the introduction of nutrition, economic livelihood and fuscus), Mediterranean limpet (Patella the landing obligation. FISH SCALE supplying the aquarium trade. Sadly, caerulea) and Ligurian pond terrapin focused on: marine biodiversity is threatened (Emys orbicularis). Acquario di Genova • changing the attitudes of consumers by many things, including marine is an excellent example of the positive by increasing their awareness of the pollution, invasive species, climate impact of funding that supports the importance of ‘by-catch’ species; change and overfishing, to name just implementation of EU nature and • helping to relieve pressure on a few. biodiversity policy. populations of more exploited By placing unsustainable The LIFE projects are in fact species, establishing a more consumption in a broader context, this great examples of the cost-effective sustainable use of marine resources topic is relevant for everyone. Not all contribution to nature conservation, by reducing the quantity of edible EAZA Members hold marine species and demonstrate exemplary ways fish discards, and providing economic in their institutions, but everybody of using LIFE funding to restore benefits for consumers because uses aquatic species for either feeding habitats, conserve species and support ‘sustainable’ fish are generally animals or their visitors. We all need 30 biodiversity, in line with the goals of cheaper. healthy oceans!

Note: This work is supported by the European Union LIFE NGO funding programme. The European Union is not responsible for the views displayed in publications and/or in conjunction with the activities for which the grant is used. 31 32