Volume 37, Number 4 ~ Fourth Quarter 2012

Magazine of the International Marine Animal Trainers’ Association

AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO TRAINING GUEST INTERACTION WITH ASIAN SMALL CLAWED OTTERS (Aonyx cinerea)

ALSO IN THIS CARE AND HANDLING OF ISSUE: NEONATE BOTTLENOSE DOLPHINS ISSN # 1007-016X Dedicated to advancing the humane care and handling of marine animals by fostering communication between professionals that serve marine animal science through training, public display, research, husbandry, conservation, and education.

Front Cover Photo Credit: Valerie Greene IMATA BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Past President SHELLEY WOOD MICHAEL OSBORN ABC Animal Training Mystic Aquarium REGIONAL REPORTER CONTACT INFORMATION Dolphin Discovery Associate Editor: Nicole O’Donnell [email protected] Treasurer Associate Editor: Martha Hill [email protected] First Vice President PATTY SCHILLING Asia: Philip Wong [email protected] GRANT ABEL New England Aquarium Australia/New Zealand: Ryan Tate rtate@zoo.nsw.gov.au Ocean Park Hong Kong Canada: Brian Sheehan [email protected] Secretary Second Vice President JENNIFER LEACH Caribbean Islands: Adrian Penny [email protected] MICHELLE SOUSA SeaWorld San Diego Europe North Central: Christiane Thiere [email protected] Aquarium of the Pacific Europe Northeast: Sunna Edberg [email protected] Director-at-Large Europe Northwest: John-Rex Mitchell [email protected] Third Vice President LAURA YEATES Europe South Central: Pablo Joury [email protected] KELLY FLAHERTY CLARK National Marine Mammal Foundation SeaWorld Orlando Europe Southwest: Monika Lechermeier [email protected] Japan: Haruhiko Kato [email protected] President-Elect Mexico Alex Mata [email protected] ERIC GAGLIONE Middle East: Tommy Wilken [email protected] Georgia Aquarium Pacific Islands: Stephanie Vlachos [email protected] Russia/Ukraine: Monika Lechermeier [email protected] COMMITTEE CHAIRS South Africa: Gabby Harris gabby@seaworld.org.za Accreditation Legislation, Information, South America Miguel Marques [email protected] BILLY HURLEY and Policy U.S. Midwest: Stacey Lonski [email protected] Georgia Aquarium MICHAEL OSBORN U.S. North Central: John-Rex Mitchell [email protected] Mystic Aquarium U.S. Northeast: Beth Manning [email protected] Animal Training Advisory U.S. Northwest: Cinthia Alia-Mitchell [email protected] TODD COFFMAN Membership Services SeaWorld Orlando SUNNA EDBERG U.S. South Central: Shannon Ray [email protected] Kolmarden U.S. Southeast: Sarah Graff [email protected] DENNIS CHRISTEN U.S. Southwest: Brittany Harris [email protected] Georgia Aquarium LAURA YEATES National Marine Mammal Foundation Soundings is published four times a year by the International Marine Animal Trainers Association (IMATA) Central Office as a service to its members. Submissions of manuscripts, photographs, and illustrations are welcomed and KEN RAMIREZ Merchandise encouraged, but will be returned only if accompanied by a return envelope and adequate postage. Any John G. Shedd Aquarium Ann Hoedt material accepted is subject to such revision as is necessary in our sole discretion to meet the requirements Georgia Aquarium of publication. Soundings is produced using Microsoft Word; the style manual followed is the fifth edition Conservation and Research (2002) Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association. Electronic submissions are preferred DEBI COLBERT Nominations and Elections and can be sent to IMATA Soundings Chief Editor, Heather Keenan, at: [email protected]. (Typed submissions Association of Zoos and Aquariums MICHAEL OSBORN will also be accepted and should be double spaced on 8.5” x 11” paper.) Include the name, address, FAX Mystic Aquarium number, and phone number of the author on the title page. Slides and hard copy or photographs can be color Education Services or black and white; photographs should be at least 3” x 5”. Digital photographs are welcomed and should MADELYNN HETTIGER Public Relations and John G. Shedd Aquarium Promotions have adequate resolution when viewed on a computer screen. For all images, include captions, identify all MICHAEL HUNT recognizable persons, and include a photo credit. The act of submitting an article, photograph, or illustration Finance Georgia Aquarium constitutes an agreement that (1) the materials are free of copyright restrictions, (2) photo releases have TRACI BELTING been obtained, and (3) the material may be published by IMATA in Soundings or other IMATA publications. Seattle Aquarium Publications Deadlines for submission are 15 November, 15 February, 15 May, and 15 August. Submissions should be PATRICK BERRY addressed to Heather Keenan, Soundings Chief Editor, email [email protected] or mailed to IMATA, 1200 Historian Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park South Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, Illinois, USA, or faxed to (312) 939-2216. Address changes should be sent CHERYL MESSINGER to IMATA’s Secretary, Jennifer Leach, at the same address. Address changes can also be made online at Dolphin Connection Regional Workshops IMATA’s web site, www.imata.org. STACI LONSKI Honors and Awards Indianapolis Zoo ©Copyright 2012. All of the articles contained within Soundings are the personal views of the respective NICOLE O’DONNELL authors and do not necessarily represent the views of IMATA or its Board of Directors. Navy Marine Mammal Program Sponsorship CHRIS SCULLION CONTACT US SAIC BioSolutions 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60605 USA PHONE (312) 692-3193 • FAX (312) 939-2216 [email protected] or visit our website at www.imata.org CHIEF EDITORS Proceedings Web Site DESIGN & PRODUCTION LAURA YEATES Beau Richter Lunar Cow National Marine Mammal Foundation Long Marine Laboratory and Aquarium 137 S. Main Street, STE 202 • Akron, OH 44308 (330) 253-9000 • www.lunarcow.com Soundings HEATHER KEENAN Miami Seaquarium Volume 37, Number 4 ~ fourth Quarter 2012 SOUNDINGS PUBLICATION

Chief Editor HEATHER KEENAN – Miami Seaquarium

Editorial Director SHELLEY WOOD – ABC Animal Training Magazine of the International Marine Animal Trainers’ Association Dolphin Discovery

Associate Editor SUZANNE SMITH – Louisiana Marine Mammal & Sea Turtle Resue Program BACK TO BASICS – Benjamin Schreiner ENRICHING ENVIRONMENTS – Ronnie Smith 16 OFF THE SHELF – John Widick 27 PRODUCT PROFILE – Chris Scullion TRAINER’S FORUM – Robert Roozendaal

Associate Editor Coral Reefs Aiding in Medical Science Identification System, Internet, and digital nautical chart technologies to alert MARTHA HILL – Sea Life Park Hawaii REGIONAL REPORTS The chemistry that helps form the oceans’ amazing landscapes of corals is actually mariners to NOAA’s right whale conservation measures which are active in their Asia Philip Wong aiding in the treatment of cancer. Using the chemicals that create the coral reefs, immediate vicinity. North Atlantic right whales are among the world’s rarest large Australia Ryan Tate animals. With a habitat range from Nova Scotia to Florida, recent estimates of their Canada Brian Sheehan scientists are deriving drugs that have shown positive effects on treating certain Caribbean Islands Adrian Penny cancers and leukemia. Ara-C, populations are approximately 350-550 animals. Collision with ships is a leading Europe North Central Christiane Thiere cause of right whale deaths. (NOAA) Europe Northeast Sunna Edberg a chemotherapy drug derived Europe Northwest John-Rex Mitchell from a sea sponge, has aided Europe South Central Pablo Joury Europe Southwest Monika Lechermeier in the treatment of leukemia. Windy Fish Farms 10 ® Japan Haruhiko Kato Halaven , a drug also from a sea Mexico Alex Mata Middle East Tommy Wilken sponge, which improves survival Pacific Islands Stephanie Vlachos rates for men and women who Russia/Ukraine Monika Lechermeier have metastatic breast cancer, South Africa Gabby Harris South America Miguel Marques became available in November U.S. Midwest Stacey Lonski 2010. The challenge is that 90% U.S. North Central John-Rex Mitchell Marine sponge (Halichondria okadai). U.S. Northeast Beth Manning Photo Credit: Dr. Paul May, University of Bristol of the Caribbean’s corals have U.S. Northwest Cinthia Alia-Mitchell been diminished by climate U.S. South Central Shannon Ray FEATURES U.S. Southeast Sarah Graff change and waterway pollution. Scientists at the Nature Conservancy have created U.S. Southwest Brittany Harris 10 An Innovative Approach To coral farms to sustainably harvest the life-saving properties of the reef. The farms, Associate Editor Training Guest Interaction supporting over 30,000 corals around Florida and the U.S. Virgin Islands, grow the DENNIS CHRISTEN – Georgia Aquarium With Asian Small Clawed Otters DEPARTMENTS WHAT’S UP DOC – Jen DeGroot Abandoning the use of primary corals by gluing some to cinder blocks on the ocean floor and hanging others from CONSERVATION BRIEFS – Shelly Samm reinforcement when training interactions Conservation Briefs ropes that float in the water. Their goal is to produce 4,000 corals a year. Along with EDUCATION FORUM – Jason Jones 5 Features conservation tidbits from current discoveries in the treatment of certain cancers and leukemia, more research Horns Rev 1 wind farm, Denmark. Photo Credit: Vattenfall INNERviews – Kevin Roberts Care And Handling Of Neonate around the world NOTICES & ANNOUNCEMENTS – Haley Merritt 27 is showing promise for treating AIDS and perhaps even Lupus, Alzheimer’s and RESEARCH BRIEFS – Beau Richter Bottlenose Dolphins A Clinical And Behavioral Approach 8 What's Up Doc Parkinson’s diseases. (msnbc.com-Nightly News) Researchers have found the wind farm, located off Denmark’s westernmost point, Associate Editor Carrie Goertz, MS, DVM is providing an artificial environment in which fish can thrive. Located in no more NICOLE O’DONNELL – Navy Marine Mammal Program Staff Veterinarian & Stranding Whale Alert App to Save Whales than 20 meters (65.6 feet) of water, 80 huge turbines harness the wind associated CONFERENCE COUNTDOWN – Grant Abel Program Manager CONFERENCE SITE SELECTION – Michelle Sousa Mariners along the east with the area’s strong wave action. Normally this extremely tough environment is LIP SYNC – Mark Xitco IMATA BUSINESS Alaska SeaLife Center MEMBERSHIP UPDATES – Jennifer Leach coast of the United States have too rough for the survival of the seaweed forest and small fish, but with the addition MERCHANDISE – Ann Hoedt PRESIDENT'S CORNER Regional Reports one more way to know if there of large piles of stone surrounding the turbines footing in the seabed to prevent NOMINATIONS & ELECTIONS – Mike Osborn 6 18 New committee introduced Keep up on news from IMATA members are any critically endangered erosion, new artificial reefs have been introduced. These areas provide shelter and PRESIDENT’S CORNER – Shelley Wood around the world REGIONAL WORKSHOP REPORTS – Staci Lonski North Atlantic right whales food for fish, which normally are found in the rocky sea floor away from of strong 14 Election Results Associate Editor Welcoming IMATA's 2013 24 Trainer's Forum (Eubalaena glacialis) in their currents. The researchers studying this area also found that the sandeel (Ammodytes NEDRA HECKER Board of Directors Keeping animals engaged at station paths. National Oceanic and marinus), one of the most important fish for the Danish fishing industry, has not been FEATURE ARTICLES during shows. affected by the mills, even though these animals are largely dependent upon the fine Michael Belshaw, Marineland Antibes Conference COUNTDOWN Atmospheric Administration’s Traci Belting, Seattle Aquarium 16 Notices & Announcements (NOAA) Stellwagen Bank sand where the turbines were built. They are hopeful that the positive reef effects Linda Beverly, Indianapolis Zoo Final details for Hong Kong 2012 26 Information on upcoming workshops, National Marine Sanctuary are even greater for a park located in more sheltered waters, such as Kattegat. Margaret Black, Mystic Aquarium North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glaciali). Sarah Brignac, Dolphin Research Center seminars, conferences, and more Site selection research team along with Photo Credit: NOAA Wind power is a non-polluting source of energy, and it contributes significantly to Carmen Colitz DVM, Animal Eye Specialty Clinic 32 Matt Fripp, SeaWorld San Diego Announcement of the 2013 IMATA several other groups have minimization of CO2 emissions. Moreover, offshore wind turbines provide an added Scott Hjerling, Coral World conference developed a free application environmental benefit: the output from offshore installations is up to 50% higher Andy Johnson, Monterey Bay Aquarium Nina Lambert, Theater of the Sea for iPads and iPhones that warns ships when they enter areas of high risk for than for comparable turbines on land. (ScienceDaily) Brett Long, Alaska SeaLife Center collision with whales. Whale Alert’s display links near real-time acoustic buoys that Catherine ‘CJ’ Johnson, Knoxville Zoo Nina Lambert, National Aquarium in Baltimore listen for right whales’ calls to an iPad or iPhone on the ship’s bridge. This display CONSERVATION BRIEFS is Patrick W. B. Moore, SAIC BioSolutions shows the whales’ presence to those compiled by Shelly Samm. Ken Ramirez, John G. Shedd Aquarium Terry Samansky, DolphinTrainer.com traveling the shipping lanes in and Patty Schilling, New England Aquarium around the Stellwagen Bank National Grey Stafford, Wildlife World Zoo John Widick, Clearwater Marine Aquarium Marine Sanctuary. The Bioacoustics Research Program at the Cornell Historian CHERYL MESSINGER – The Dolphin Connection Lab of Ornithology helped develop the acoustic detection and warning Photo Archivist MARK TODD - SAIC BioSolutions system. The app incorporates Global

FILLERS AND FACTOIDS Positioning System (GPS), Automatic DENNIS CHRISTEN - Georgia Aquarium Atlantic Puffin with a beak full of sandeels.

Photo Credit: Steve Garvie Publications Chair Image of an alert of whale activity on an iPad. PATRICK BERRY – Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park Photo Credit: NOAA

4 Volume 37, Number 4 SOUNDINGS 2012 SOUNDINGS 2012 Volume 37, Number 4 5 对于国际海洋动物训练员协会来说，2012年的最后一个季度仍旧是一个繁忙的季节。 The last quarter of 2012 has been a busy one El último trimestre de 2012 ha estado muy 在9月份，海豚研究中心在佛罗里达州礁群岛举办了一届参加人数众多的区域研讨会。 参 for IMATA. In September, Dolphin Research Center played ocupado para IMATA. En septiembre, Dolphin Research 会人员参与了现场研讨会的活动，观摩了现场训练演示并参观了当地其它的一些海洋公园。同 host to a well-attended regional workshop in the Florida Center fue sede de un workshop de entrenamiento regional 时，协会的领导团队为确定2012年香港年会最后的一些细节在不辞辛苦地工作。协会第一副主 Keys. Attendees took part in on-site workshop activities, en los Cayos de Florida. Los asistentes participaron en las 席魏伟宝先生和他的团队为香港海洋公园举办有史以来第一次在亚洲召开的年会，已经制定了 live training demonstrations and the opportunity to visit actividades del workshop la locación, demostraciones en 一个非常全面细致的方案。我们都坚信此次年会一定能够取得圆满成功，期待与各位在香港相 other local marine parks. Meanwhile, IMATA’s leadership vivo de entrenamiento, y la oportunidad de visitar otros 见！ team was busy working out the final details for the 2012 parques marinos locales. Mientras tanto, el equipo de 作为一名职业的动物训练员和教育工作者，香港海洋公园和海豚研究中心这样的一些机构令 conference in Hong Kong. First Vice President, Grant Abel liderazgo de IMATA estaba ocupado trabajando en los 我受到极大的鼓舞，因为这些机构都在无私地奉献他们的时间和专业知识以及提供经济资助来 and his team have set up a great program for the first-ever detalles finales para la conferencia de 2012 en Hong Kong. 举办协会的各种活动。在一个如此高尚和能带来巨大职业满足感的行业里，这样的平台和信息 Asian conference hosted by Ocean Park Hong Kong. We El Vicepresidente, Abel Grant y su equipo han creado un 的互通有无将有助于我们这些真正的专业人员在这个行业中发挥应有的作用。 are all confident it will be a great success and are looking gran programa para la conferencia internacional que se 全球行业内发展的日益多样化以及对召开年会和区域研讨会的需求已经促使我们成立一个新 forward to seeing you there. celebra en Asia por primera, organizado por Ocean Park 的公共关系和推广委员会，由Michael Hunt先生担任主席。作为协会的前任官员，Michael是协 As a professional animal trainer and educator, I am de Hong Kong. Todos estamos seguros de que será un gran 会唯一授权可以通过社会媒体和利用其它手段来发布有关协会及其会员的信息的人。很荣幸地 encouraged by institutions such as Ocean Park Hong Kong éxito y esperamos verlos allí. 告诉大家Michael再一次同意发挥他的才能来为我们的协会继续服务。 and Dolphin Research Center who generously donate their Como entrenador profesional de animales y educador, me 我还很高兴地宣布协会的领导们正在制定一个有关2013年“走向绿色”的详细计划来更 time, vision, and finances to host these IMATA events. This siento alentada por instituciones como Ocean Park en Hong 好地为会员服务和保护环境。通过与Lunar Cow公司和协会的数字媒体团队的合作，电子 networking and information exchange helps define our roles Kong y Dolphin Research Center que generosamente donan 版本的Soundings将在2013年推出，并重新改名为eSoundings。在协会全球化的发展过程 as true professionals in an honorable and fulfilling career. su tiempo, su visión y el dinero para acoger estos eventos 中，eSoundings是一个必不可少的部分，这个新版本的刊物不但让我们尽可能利用多种语言进 Our growing global diversity and need for both the annual IMATA. Este intercambio de información continua ayuda a 行有效的交流，还让我们能以一种更经济更及时的方式提供和分享信息。让我们对这个令人振 conference and regional workshops has led us to form the definir nuestro papel como verdaderos profesionales de 奋的项目拭目以待！ new Public Relations & Promotions Committee, chaired esta carrera de forma honorable y satisfactoria. 能为这个协会服务一直以来都是我的荣幸，我将期待和2013年协会的领导们以及会员们一起 by Michael Hunt. As a past-officer, Michael is uniquely Nuestra diversidad y la necesidad de crecer a nivel 不断前进。 qualified to harness social media and other technology to mundial, tanto para la conferencia anual y workshops provide announcements about related news events for regionales, nos ha llevado a formar el nuevo Comité de IMATA and our members. I am proud that Michael has again Relaciones públicas y Promociones, presidido por Michael agreed to volunteer his talents for our association. Hunt. Como responsabilidad pasada, Michael es el único I am also proud to announce that IMATA’s leadership calificado para aprovechar las redes sociales y otras is working hard for our members and our environment tecnologías, para proporcionar anuncios sobre eventos y by preparing a detailed plan to “go-green” in 2013. In noticias relacionados sobre IMATA y nuestros miembros. In Memoriam cooperation with Lunar Cow and IMATA’s digital media Estoy orgullosa de que Michael haya aceptado dar su team, an electronic version of Soundings will be launched talento voluntariamente para nuestra asociación. Kent Burgess in 2013 and will be reborn as eSoundings. The development También estoy orgullosa de anunciar que el equipo de of eSoundings is an essential element in our global growth, lideres IMATA está trabajando duro para nuestros miembros It is with sincere sadness that we share the news that IMATA’s first President, Kent not only in our ability to effectively communicate in multiple y nuestro medio ambiente, mediante la preparación de un Burgess, passed away on September 18, 2012 at 85 years of age. Elected as IMATA languages, but to provide and share information in a plan detallado para "ser verdes" en 2013. En cooperación President in 1974, Kent served a vital role in founding our organization and establishing timely and economic manner. Please stay tuned for more con Lunar Cow y el equipo de medios digitales IMATA, una excellence in marine mammal training. He began his career at Animal Behavior Enterprises (ABE) in Hot Springs, Arkansas, which was founded by Keller and Marian development on this exciting project. versión electrónica de Soundings se pondrá en marcha Breland, graduate students of famed behaviorist B.F. Skinner. As Chief Trainer for ABE It has been an honor serving this association and I look en 2013 y va a renacer como eSoundings. El desarrollo in the 1950’s, Kent served as a dolphin training consultant for Marineland of Florida (then forward to continuing our movement forward with the 2013 de eSoundings es un elemento fundamental en nuestro known as Marine Studios). During this time, ABE successfully applied the first use of a IMATA leadership and members. crecimiento global, no sólo en nuestra capacidad de bridging stimulus with marine mammals at the Marine Studios dolphin show, which was comunicarse de manera efectiva en varios idiomas, sino renowned for presenting the world’s first trained dolphins. This important work paved the way for many additional advancements, including también para proporcionar y compartir información de una the first written training manual and establishing a system for training trainers. Kent went on to consult with Marineland of the Pacific in manera oportuna y económica. Por favor, estén atentos the 1950’s as well. In the 1960’s Kent was hired to help establish the Navy’s fledgling dolphin research program at Point Mugu, California, para más noticias de este emocionante proyecto. and then moved on to become the Director of Training at Sea World San Diego, where he was one of the first to train killer whales. Kent Ha sido un honor servir a esta asociación y esperamos went on to become the Director of Training at Opryland USA. He earned a BS degree at Harding College and a MS degree at University continuar con nuestro moviéndonos hacia delante con los of Arkansas in Fayetteville. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Billie Burgess, his children, grandchildren and great-grand children. lideres y los miembros IMATA 2013. Condolences can be shared with Kent’s son, Patrick Burgess, at [email protected] or 8463 Bed Straw Street, Parker, CO 80134.

6 Volume 37, Number 4 SOUNDINGS 2012 SOUNDINGS 2012 Volume 37, Number 4 7 the risk of becoming a nuisance or problem Carrie Goertz, MS, DVM animal. People misinterpret the released w/ Dr. Carrie Goertz feeds a bottle of formula to a stranded walrus calf What’s Staff Veterinarian & Stranding animals’ desire for food as an indication they are tame or safe, which can result in possible injury (Odobenus rosmarus) at Alaska SeaLife Center. Program Manager to the person or animal. Sometimes imprinting Up Doc? Alaska SeaLife Center becomes unavoidable due to prolonged or intensive treatment. Onyx, an orphaned harbor seal in Alaska, developed cataracts and became Photo credit: Alaska SeaLife Center/ Dr. Goertz, why do some rehabilitated marine blind. The long recovery following surgery to USFWS-ASLC Stranding Agreement restore vision prevented release prior to onset mammals get deemed non-releasable and placed in of Alaska’s harsh winter. The combination zoological facilities, and why is this important?” of his youth at admission, intensive hands- on post-surgical treatment, and the lengthy rehabilitation compromised his ability to survive in the wild, and Onyx was declared non- releasable. Young, imprinted animals can make The goal of marine wildlife rehabilitation is to return stranded Monterey Bay Aquarium has a highly successful foster program good candidates for zoological facilities as they animals to the ocean. In the United States regulations require pairing sea otter pups with mature female otters as surrogates to already have accepted human care and are at rehabilitated marine mammals be released within six months enable releasing pups once weaned, but the program’s capacity an age where they typically learn quickly. unless they fail to meet release criteria. Specifically, released is limited. Consequently, young otters without mentors and all Stranding programs across the country animals should be able to survive once returned to the wild and Alaskan sea otters miss out on important survival skills difficult respond to dozens of calls each day, year not adversely affect wild populations. While an animal’s medical for caregivers to teach and are thus not candidates for release. round, about evenly split between live and and nutritional needs must be addressed, treatment plans and The Alaska SeaLife Center has placed over a dozen sea otter dead animals. These events contribute to our husbandry are designed to keep the wild in wild animals, so the pups at facilities from coast to coast, most recently Meshik at scientific knowledge of marine mammals and ultimate destination is determined by its individual condition, not Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium, and MoJoe at Oregon Coast our understanding of their ocean ecosystem. the care received. Rehabilitation centers work collaboratively Aquarium. The value of these animals to educational with regulatory agencies to assess animals and determine the A third reason individuals may be non-releasable is due outreach alone is incalculable. However, appropriate disposition. Using Standards for Release developed to imprinting. Rehabilitation centers work hard to prevent animals some of the more unique species also provide by National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and from imprinting by limiting human contact and delivering food opportunities to better understand their United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), release potential remotely. Some animals can be encouraged to learn on their own biology. Non-releasable Hawaiian monk seals is determined based on an assessment of health, behavior, and through careful husbandry. This is most easily done with species (Monachus schauninslandi), Guadalupe fur ecological factors following an evaluation of historical, medical, that have shorter maternal investment periods such as phocid, seals (Arctocephalus townsendi), and ice seals, and husbandry records. and to some extent, otariid pinnipeds. Despite best efforts, including ringed (Pusa hispida) and spotted Routine medical tests required to evaluate release potential some animals still imprint, and associate people with food and seals (Phoca largha), are providing valuable are often the same in determining placement potential. In both companionship. Following release this association would increase information about their species which live cases, an animal must be free of conditions that in logistically challenging areas and are not would adversely affect other animals. These routinely seen in aquaria. tests may include complete blood counts, serum Another legacy of these programs is the originally rescued when found injured or otherwise in distress. chemistries, fecal analyses, and evidence of A stranded spotted seal pup (Phoca largha) at Alaska SeaLife Center. rehabilitation graduates. These individual animals and their stories These animals are the poster children of stranding programs, exposure to viruses such as Morbillivirus or often make the difference to the public. Of stranded animals found each one with a compelling story. They are ambassadors and are Brucella. If the decision to place an animal has alive, almost half survive and are returned to their environment, vital to communicating important messages about their species been made and a home is identified, additional and less than one percent are transferred to zoological facilities and ecosystems to the public, inspiring people to action while testing may be required by the receiving facility for permanent care. Over the past decade, NOAA has placed continuing to provide valuable scientific information. or its state veterinarian. In the end, it is often a 165 non-releasable stranded animals, including eight cetacean physical or developmental limitation that would and 15 pinniped species, into permanent care. Of the USFWS WHAT’S UP DOC? is compiled by Jen DeGroot preclude success following release rather than a managed species, there are over 40 Florida manatees (Trichechus medical issue that tilts a decision to find a home manatus) and 50 sea otters in facilities, almost all of which were in an aquarium. These cases can be challenging for their new homes, but they can also carry very strong conservation messages. Animals with missing, broken, or deformed limbs as well as extensive body scarring from ship strikes or Supplemental Information about the MMPA and the NMMHSP entanglement clearly communicate the need for better stewardship of our world. Forty years ago, the US Congress passed the Marine Mammal Stranding programs across the country respond to dozens of calls A second reason individuals are placed Protection Act which established a national policy to, in general, each day, almost evenly split between live and dead animals. These into human care rather than released back to their maintain the health and stability of the marine ecosystem but also to events generate tremendous public interest though the true value of natural environment is if they were not weaned specifically manage marine mammal species so they remain a vital overall program comes from the huge legacy of scientific knowledge. from their mother when admitted. While young part of the oceans. This landmark conservation act has been amended This program has been so successful that last year the International of some species, such as harbor seals (Phoca several times with one of the more notable amendments establishing Association of Aquatic Animal Medicine presented NOAA/NMFS its vitulina), do much of their learning on their own, Photo credit: Alaska SeaLife the National Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Program. This Mark Keyes Award for Marine Mammal Conservation. other species, such as sea otters (Enhydra lutris) Center/ NMFS-ASLC Stranding program formalized a network of organizations, now over 100, to and walrus (Odobenus rosmarus), spend an Agreement investigate and respond to strandings in all coastal states and help extended maternal period learning life’s lessons. monitor the health of marine mammal populations nationwide.

8 Volume 37, Number 4 SOUNDINGS 2012 SOUNDINGS 2012 Volume 37, Number 4 9 Photo Credit: Todd Coffman, SeaWorld Orlando

unique team of Animal Ambassadors that carry the company’s educational The Goal messages outside the park boundaries. One species on the Animal The goal at SeaWorld Orlando was to learn from our predecessors and Ambassador team is the Asian small-clawed otter (Aonyx cinerea), achieve interactive success with fewer behavioral complications. In 2007 chosen to represent threatened animals, and to educate audiences about and 2008 two litters, each 1.1 of Asian small-clawed river otters were born as conservation. part of SeaWorld’s participation in the Species Survival Plan (SSP) program. Otters are naturally gregarious and playful and have captivated the The training team was challenged with conditioning these four young public for years. (Allen, 2010). Asian small-clawed otters’ inherent appeal otters to travel easily, adapt to new environments quickly, accept touch from allows them to function as ambassadors for the entire otter family. Almost strangers, and be able to be handled by a company spokesperson. Upon half of the 13 otter species are either endangered or vulnerable, with a weaning, around three months of age, all four otter kits (Boris, Natasha, very high or high risk of extinction in the wild in the foreseeable future Dunder, and Mifflin) were placed in the new training program. (Kruuk, 2006). Therefore the Asian small-clawed otter makes an excellent Chosen candidates remained with their parents until they were candidate to represent all otters as an Animal Ambassador. completely weaned and independent. The objective with the otters Historically, SeaWorld’s guest interaction otters were trained using was a challenging one; SeaWorld wanted to train the acceptance traditional operant conditioning methods which included the application of new environments and situations by relying on an established of primary reinforcement (Kazdin, 2001). There are several significant trainer’s reinforcement history through interaction using unconditioned behaviors in the repertoire of an interaction animal. Animal Ambassador reinforcement. Unconditioned reinforcers are reinforcing without otters are conditioned to wear a harness and walk on a leash. There is requiring special learning or training (Kazdin, 2001). If the SeaWorld team a pick-up behavior, which involves the trainer lifting the animal, holding conditioned the relationship appropriately, the otters would not expect it, manipulating it, and desensitizing the animal to touch. They also their trainer to expose them to a negative situation. In order to ensure need to enter and exit a kennel and travel for extended periods. Most consistency and build relationships (individual reinforcement histories), importantly, Ambassador otters need to be comfortable in a variety of the training team was limited to four people. new environments. The animals were conditioned to be held, manipulated, and Prior to this project, otters in SeaWorld’s Ambassador program were kenneled, multiple times per session, and interactions took place in a either separated from their parents for hand-rearing, or geriatric show variety of environments. These otters were not expected to perform in a animals who were retired due to physical limitations. While largely show scenario, and behavioral requests of the animals were consistent. successful, each of these two scenarios presented complications. These factors all allowed for a lot of exposure to trainers, and numerous The lack of parental involvement with animals that are hand-reared playful interactions. may contribute to less than desirable behavior (Meder, 1988), and indeed The approach incorporated a training regimen in which the otter kits some less than desirable behaviors were observed with SeaWorld’s hand- were fed to satiation multiple times throughout the day, and food was reared Ambassador otters. Trainers with years of experience alongside never associated with playful, touch, or pick-up behaviors. The timing of the animals reported some aggression, over-grooming, and excessive initial interactions was strategic in that they occurred following a feeding vocalizations that may have been connected to no parental rearing during which the otters ate to satiation. This satiated state ensured (Beaver, 2011). Problems also arose when behavior, dependent upon the otters would not exhibit unwanted behavior (biting, etc.) typically strong relationships built with just a few trainers, could not be replicated associated with a hunger drive. Since the trainers did not feed from their when other trainers tried to perform them during interactions. hands, the otters should not have associated food with trainers’ hands AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO TRAINING One limiting factor of primary reinforcement is that it may lose and that also likely contributed to less biting behavior. its effectiveness rather quickly, a phenomenon known as satiation Asian small-clawed otters are often observed resting in a den or ‘holt’ GUEST INTERACTION WITH ASIAN (Chance, 2009). While primary reinforcement allows for the successful (Kruuk, 2006). A kennel was introduced as a den or holt making certain training of behaviors in the interaction repertoire, the reliance on that the animals were as familiar with it as possible. It was hoped that SMALL CLAWED OTTERS (Aonyx cinerea) it creates difficulties. Some of those were noted with SeaWorld the exposure to the kennel in a reinforcing environment would contribute Valerie Lisa Greene & Kelly Flaherty Clark interaction otters. The dependence on primary to successful kenneling in all kinds of situations. The SeaWorld Orlando SeaWorld Orlando reinforcement restricted the type and Animal Training team understood through conversation with peers that length of interactions with the problems sometimes occurred during travel or on location if the animals tters have a significant history in SeaWorld’s animal interaction training guest interaction otters which abandons primary reinforcement public because the otters could refused to perform the kenneling behavior. The otters referenced were O program. Throughout the years the company has progressed association with interaction. The new approach has produced two otters not be relied upon to perform an not trained to be physically placed in the kennel, so picking them up and to techniques that allow their animal training team to utilize that are some of the most successful interaction animals in the company. interaction once satiated (Beaver, placing them in a kennel was not an option. SeaWorld Orlando wanted these aquatic animals for extensive outreach programs. While largely Millions of guests are affected by SeaWorld’s animal attractions 2011), and relying on it during their otters to be conditioned to enter the kennel on a stimulus cue, but successful, the guest interaction otters prior to 2007 were dependent every year, and its icon Shamu is synonymous with the park’s name an interaction contributed to the also wanted the option of physically placing them into a kennel (Gwinn, on the application of primary reinforcement for interactions which all over the world. While community service, outreach, education, and refusal of critical behaviors, the 2011). This method would afford the training team the option of routinely presented complications. SeaWorld Orlando sought to capitalize on the conservational messages have been a part of SeaWorld’s very DNA for most significant being kenneling placing their otters in the kennel, at any moment, in any situation. success of the past, while implementing new techniques that would more than 40 years, for obvious reasons, the park cannot bring Shamu (Gwinn, 2011). address previous challenges. This paper presents a novel approach to along on these excursions. Over the years SeaWorld has developed a

10 Volume 37, Number 4 SOUNDINGS 2012 SOUNDINGS 2012 Volume 37, Number 4 11 Boris and Natasha After only a few days it was noted that Boris and Natasha not only Dunder were kenneling and travelling On 10 April 2007, Boris and Natasha (1.1) were born in Orlando, responded well to trainers’ touch and physical manipulations, but showed together. Florida. On 18 July 2007 they were fully weaned, passed a routine behavioral tendency to solicit them. Within the first two weeks of out- During their conditioning, Dunder physical, and were transferred to the Animal Training department. From of-enclosure interactions trainers introduced a harness and leash. One and Boris were brought together to a the moment they arrived at the facility, trainers spent as much time with trainer held the otter, while a second trainer manipulated its body to variety of new environments both inside them as possible. Interaction first took place in the environment of their properly adjust the harness on the otter. The process was executed quickly and outside. (Photo 1.) They were home enclosure, and about a week later progressed to other environments. and efficiently so as to not allow for any avoidance rehearsal (biting or exposed to loud noises, bright lights, Boris and Natasha were picked up, touched, and manipulated consistently. squirming). Careful pairing of the harness with reinforcing situations cameras, unexpected touches, and Hesitation during picking the otters up might offer the opportunity to emit quickly established a positive reinforcement history with the otters. more. The variety of environments they and rehearse undesirable behavior, so when picking the otters up it was Davis and Balfour (1992) have acknowledged observation of gained exposure to reinforced a ‘way of done with intent, commitment, purpose, and animal personality and has applied noted life’ approach to their conditioning. As without precursor. The animal training team Photo Credit: Alex Gonzalez SW Orlando differences when interpreting behavioral more and more successful interactions did not want to allow for any history around results. It was noted early on that Boris had took place, Boris and Dunder trusted escape, squirming, or other pick-up avoidance a natural inclination toward this approach to their trainer would not expose them behaviors. The number of interactions and learning. He would often leap into trainers’ to any negative situations. Avoidance time of day were kept variable and primary arms, or jump into their laps. Boris seemed behaviors are extinguished when a reinforcement was never associated with predisposed for guest interaction. Natasha negative consequence does not occur being picked up, being touched, or being played on the other hand responded well to learning (Kazdin, 2001), and we noted a decrease with. The length of interactions were variable but had a shorter and limited threshold for in avoidance behaviors to the point ranging from just minutes to more than an hour. being held. She resisted harness adjustment of extinction. Established, effective Though variability was influential, the goal was and on several occasions bit her trainer. relationships with trainers enabled as much interaction as possible and frequently Because we saw an increase in aggressive the otters to trust their safety in any trainers entered the habitat to simply sit with response especially when being harnessed, situation regardless of novel stimuli. the otters. we put a stop to her interaction training. Our previous history with otters allowed In April 2008, SeaWorld San Antonio was Results us to anticipate that Boris and Natasha would interested in acquiring a female otter for Boris and Dunder travel Photo Credit: Todd Coff- likely bite, however due to their young age, bites show performance. Natasha was relocated all over the country, and have man, SeaWorld Orlando were easily tolerated by trainers. If nipping there and is thriving in a show perfomance appeared on national television or biting occurred while being picked up, we environment. with celebrities including but not as these interactions are not dependent on primary reinforcement. The waited for cessation and for a calm response limited to: Jack Hanna, Julie Scardina, Jay Leno, and others. methodology described represents a significant deviation from previous before changing position or putting them back Dunder and Mifflin (Photo 2.) Both can be handled by company spokespeople while philosophy. However, this methodology effectively overcame many on the ground. Initially, Boris and Natasha bit In October 2007 two Asian small-clawed television personalities, their guests, and members of the public of all challenges and has produced the two most docile, easily-handled otters when we picked them up, but after only a few otters, Dunder and Mifflin (1.1), were born ages have enjoyed physical contact. Their appearances at hospital charity, in SeaWorld’s history. seconds the otters emitted a learned response at SeaWorld Orlando. Once weaned, they marketing, and educational events are numerous and they help to educate during which they exhibited calm behavior with were separated from their parents, passed and entertain park guests. Acknowledgements relaxed posture. a routine physical exam and came to the SeaWorld has been among the leaders in training animals to The authors thank Alan Gwinn, Michelle Beaver, Todd Coffman, Research shows that when animals have Animal Training department in February 2008. interact with members of the public for over 40 years. Throughout its Jodie Tintle, Beth Bonnell, Emma Welch, and the entire Animal Training the opportunity to rehearse aggression they Trainers implemented the same methodology as used with history, SeaWorld Animal Trainers have used knowledge gained to department at SeaWorld Orlando for their dedication to the animals in will do so more often (Johnson, 1972). Early in Boris and Natasha, and concluded very early on in the guest interaction consistently and continuously adapt their methods in order to produce their care and the progression of our craft. the conditioning process, the trainers learned that the kits were more training process that like Boris, Dunder had a natural disposition that the most dependable ambassador animals. The method used with these prone to biting in their home environment. If a bite occurred in their home predisposed him to interaction conditioning. In contrast, Mifflin (the otters represents a highly unique approach rooted in the behavioral and References enclosure, trainers exited the environment. Trainer interaction was taken female) did not easily accept either physical contact or being picked philosophical principles. While the sample size is too small for statistical Allen, D. (2010). Otter (pp. 23-24). London: Reaktion Books Ltd. away, which based on their behavior, we could assume had become quite up. Based on Natasha’s success in San Antonio, SeaWorld Orlando evaluation, it is interesting that the males in the group were better guest Beaver, M. (2011). Personal communication. 8 August 2011. reinforcing. The assumption was validated; reinforcement history had concentrated its guest interaction efforts on Dunder while Mifflin started interaction candidates. As the sample size increases, we hopes to assess Chance, P. (2009). Learning and behavior: Active learning edition (p. 135). California: indeed been established, and SeaWorld noted that removing the trainer learning show behaviors. Following the same successful plan Animal whether or not gender plays a role in Ambassador Animal selection and Wadsworth. Coffman, T. (2011). Personal communication. 15 August 2011. interaction proved effective; there was a decrease in biting. Training had implemented with Boris, Dunder excelled in being picked up, training. Davis, H., & Balfour, D. (1992). The inevitable bond: Examining scientist–animal Basic operant conditioning principles have shown that by reinforcing harnessing, and other aspects of interaction training. The novel approach to otter conditioning with Boris and Dunder interactions. New York: Cambridge University Press. successive approximations, the final response is gradually achieved. produced two of the most amenable animals in the company’s collection Gwinn, A. (2011). Personal communication. 10 June 2011. Responses increasingly similar to the final goal are reinforced, and they Boris and Dunder while allowing parent rearing. A reinforcement history driven way-of-life Hume, J., & Wynne-Edwards, K. (2005). Castration reduces male testosterone, estradiol, and territorial aggression, but not paternal behavior in biparental dwarf hamsters increase; responses dissimilar to the final goal are not reinforced, and Asian small-clawed otters are presumably grouped with the approach utilized relationships with the trainers to make guest interaction (Phodopus campbelli). Hormones and Behavior, 48(3), 303-310. they extinguish (Kazdin, 2001). As the exposure to interaction outside presence of at least one adult female and her offspring (Kruuk, 2006). and novel situations a part of daily activities. This training methodology Johnson, R. N. (1972). Aggression in man and animals (pp. 141-142). Philadelphia, PA: W.B. their home enclosure increased, rehearsal of desired behavior contributed Grouping two males together is an atypical arrangement, however addressed some of the challenges our interaction otters had faced in the Saunders. to a decrease in nipping or biting in their home. Duration of the pickups both Boris and Dunder were thriving, both had a positive reinforcement past. Boris and Dunder are conditioned to be either asked to go into the Kazdin, A. (2001). Behavior modification in applied settings (pp. 21-26, 43, 51-52, 56-59). California: Wadsworth. was slowly and methodically increased, and eventually trainers began history, and the benefits of cohabitating ambassador animals justified an kennel or physically placed in the kennel, experience novel environments, Kruuk, H. (2006). Otters: Ecology, behaviour and conservation (pp. 20-23, 52, 72-77, 228, taking Boris and Natasha out of their home environments all together. introduction in March of 2008. The first acclimations took place with both wear a harness with ease, and both can be picked up and handled by 237). Oxford: Oxford University Press. They started with places very close by, and then progressed to physically the otters in their harnesses and leashes in neutral territory. Successive team members, company spokespeople, and guests. (Photo 3.) They Meder, A. (1988). Effects of hand-rearing on the behavioral development of infant and placing them in the kennel and going to other areas further away. approximations allowed for a positive history, and eventually Boris and are willing to accept new situations and interactions of long duration, juvenile gorillas. Developmental Psychology, 22(4), 357-376.

12 Volume 37, Number 4 SOUNDINGS 2012 SOUNDINGS 2012 Volume 37, Number 4 13 Following is a brief description of these positions. As you look at them, think of your own career development. Each position involves skills Board member changes Nominations you will use throughout your career. Why not learn them with us? for 2012-2014 Elections President Elect IMATA would like to wish current IMATA & Assists the current President in his duties and is responsible Vice President and former committee chair Professional development for assisting in the publication of the Annual Conference Mike Pool all the best in his new endeavors that’s right for you! Proceedings. Assumes the office of President the following as he leaves his post on the IMATA Board FOR THE 2013 – 2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS year and serves as the Editorial Director of Soundings, and all and the marine mammal field. After twelve Opportunities for career advancement and involvement in other IMATA publications. The president establishes the yearly his year’s nominees for office comprise an years at SeaWorld San Antonio and several serious decision making regarding marine mammal science, animal agenda then serves as Past President and the Chairperson of outstanding group of animal professionals years with IMATA, Mike has decided to training, and animal care is a common desire many of us have. the Nominations and Elections Committee in the third year. This Teager to help and willing to provide their pursue interests in another industry. Our own institutions can offer some of this career development position does require the candidate to have had prior board or expertise to IMATA’s future. We encourage interested Mike has been a mainstay at many when opportunities arise or new, supervisory positions open. committee experience with IMATA. professionals to get involved by supporting various conferences and took over the monumental However, as many of us know, these positions are far fewer than committees as a stepping-stone to serving the task of following in Bill Wolden’s footsteps most of us would like and many qualified industry professionals Third Vice President organization as a Committee Chair or Director. Each as the IMATA Honors and Awards committee miss the opportunity to involve themselves, and their ideas, in The Third VP sets up the annual conference from beginning to end starting three years out – from the election of his or her Bill Wolden year we have the honor of announcing election chair as Bill moved onto the Board. He also high level decision making. Critical information is lost when valued results for new members to the Board of Directors. helped to fashion and monitor IMATA’s launch experience goes unrealized. Animals, young trainers, and even conference site until the final song at the banquet. Planning and organization will be assisted by the Site Selection Committee and These are volunteer positions providing leadership in into the Facebook realm. He was always peers benefit from solid leadership. IMATA can fill that gap by the Conference Committee, as well as the Second VP and First VP, accordance to the by-laws and ethics of the IMATA willing to help volunteer his time at IMATA enabling your valuable leadership skills to get some exercise. Every to which positions he or she will succeed each year. organization. It should be recognized that all nominees conferences at any task that may have been year officer positions are open and can be filled by those in the who demonstrate the courage to put their name on the put in front of him in assisting to make the Professional Membership category. This not only benefits IMATA SECRETARY and you, but also gives back to your home institution through your ballot are prepared to commit for a three-year term conference great for the membership. We The Secretary keeps the minutes of all meetings of the Board personal career enrichment and development. An excellent return and we thank them for taking that initiative! This appreciate his work preparing for the 2014 of Directors and the annual meetings of the membership. He/she on your time investment! Each officer of IMATA is supported year we are proud to welcome our new Directors for conference in Orlando. works closely with the treasurer to process memberships, send Teri Corbett by enthusiastic, nurturing individuals, able to lend a hand at a 2012 to 2015 as elected by the membership for the out membership information, and keeps membership database Thanks Mike, you will be missed. moment’s notice. The relationships, contacts, and information following positions: records. The Secretary performs direct correspondence with the exchanged are reciprocal. IMATA benefits, your home institution membership as directed by the board. The position is served for benefits, and more importantly YOU benefit!! Directors, (3 year terms) two years as Secretary, with the third year as Director at Large, Bill Wolden - President Elect assisting the newly incoming board member in learning and Our Board members are involved in a multitude of fascinating transferring secretary duties. Teri Corbett - Third Vice President projects. Each project and committee generates a diverse series of Robert Roozendaal - Treasurer tasks, reports, and important decision-making related to policies. No college, university, internship, seminar series, or

These include topics and discussions involving: supplemental education program can directly involve you in Directors, (2 years remaining in term) • Legislation, regulations, and marine mammals standards Mike Pool real issues and direct, meaningful leadership involving the Eric Gaglione – President Elect • Animal learning and training advancements and applications marine mammal profession. If you are serious about developing • Medical applications and enrichment Robert Roozendaal Kelly Clark – Second Vice President * your career, then you recognize that involvement in IMATA is • Publications, web site development, information content, *(appointment by president; pending vote from membership) an important component in your professional development. scientific presentations Jennifer Leach - Secretary • Awards, recognition of contributions Should you wish to submit your name, or the name of a fellow • Budget preparation and administration member for nomination, please contact the Nominations and Directors, (1 year remaining in term) Kelly Clark • Policy making Election Committee at: Shelley Wood – President • Conference organization and site selection Michelle Sousa – 2ND Vice President • Membership administration IMATA 1200 South Lake Shore Drive Patty Schilling – Director at Large • Interface with other animal organizations such as AZA and the The 3rd Vice President board position vacated Chicago, Illinois 60605 Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums by Mike’s departure has been graciously filled USA When the Executive Board meets in Hong Kong this December among the first order These, and many more are just a few of the topics in which by SeaWorld Orlando’s Kelly Flaherty Clark. We Or via email: [email protected] of business will be to finalize the election process by officially electing these three you’ll be directly involved. Being involved on the IMATA board is an thank Kelly for stepping in for what will be a candidates to a three-year term of office in which the membership has voted them. education of a lifetime, and an invaluable career goal for many. The nominations window will be closed on 1 February 2013. monumental task of taking on this very special Welcome aboard and we look forward to you serving! Elections for the 2014-2016 Board will be held soon as three Professional members eligible to serve on IMATA’s Board of conference being held in 2014. critical officer slots become available to you. In this election year, Directors can be found on the IMATA website under the “Member” the slots include: President-elect, 3rd Vice President, and Secretary. menu, “Eligible for Nominations”.

14 Volume 37, Number 4 SOUNDINGS 2012 SOUNDINGS 2012 Volume 37, Number 4 15 2 - 7 December 2012

It's IMATA's 40th birthday and what better place to celebrate many nooks and crannies of Hong Kong. Additionally, there than Hong Kong! IMATA will host its first conference in Asia. will be tours to visit the local 'Pink dolphins' and Indo-Pacific This is your chance to meet new friends in our global industry. humpback dolphins of Hong Kong. Colleagues from over 25 countries will be attending the 40th annual IMATA conference in Hong Kong to share experiences, Log on to http://hongkong2012.imata.org/ for all your challenges and most importantly, solutions. registration, travel and hotel needs. Also, it’s not too late to be a sponsor! The response of our service industries, suppliers and Highlights for this year's conference include: presentations on supporters has been overwhelming. A huge thank you goes out training orcas, whale sharks and Pacific white-sided dolphins; to our sponsors for supporting IMATA and making this event in-situ research on beluga whales; sea turtle rehabilitation; happen in Hong Kong. I encourage everyone to send thanks to research training with Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins; our sponsors. Together, we can expand the professional services application of operant conditioning in in-situ situations with and products that we rely on for our animals' health and care marine mammals; sea lion and walrus husbandry; endangered throughout the world, thereby helping everyone achieve our Yangtze river finless porpoises under human care; multi-species collective missions and goals. and multi-cultural training paradigms and so much more.... Finally, for those of you staying at home while your colleagues If this is your first visit to Asia, you will have time for sightseeing attend this conference in Hong Kong; a big thank you for holding day and night! Hong Kong offers many exciting venues down the fort and enabling your colleagues to travel. This throughout the city to enjoy with friends. Our entertainment conference is for you too! committee is in full swing setting out options to explore the

16 Volume 37, Number 4 SOUNDINGS 2012 SOUNDINGS 2012 Volume 37, Number 4 17 The following reports were submitted for publication on 31 August 2012

ASIA REGION how the new Ocean Park seamlessly integrates saddened to announce the passing of beluga whale EUROPE NORTH CENTRAL REGION and programs for the upcoming season. The staff would Philip Wong, Ocean Park – Hong Kong, China conservation, education and entertainment through (Delphinapterus leucas), Kavna, on 6 August 2012. Christiane Thiere, Tiergarten Nuremberg – like to welcome assistant trainer Sandra Oosting to the immersive designs, presentations and experiential Kavna was approximately 46 years old and known to Nuremberg, Germany seal team and The NITO Group family. Dalian Laohutan Ocean Park Co., Ltd – encounters. be the oldest beluga whale in any accredited aquarium Zhongshan District, Dalian of Liaoning Province, CHINA in North America. Dolphinarium Nuernberg – PACIFIC ISLANDS REGION Tiergarten Nuernberg, GERMANY Stephanie Vlachos – Waimanalo, Hawaii Zhongshan District, Dalian of Liaoning Province, AUSTRALIA REGION “While our staff and volunteers are saddened at The trainers at Dolphinarium Nuernberg are proud CHINA Ryan Tate, Taronga Zoo – Sydney the loss of our beluga whale, Kavna, we’re left with very At Dalian Laohutan Ocean Park, the polar bear warm memories of her at the Vancouver Aquarium,” to announce that the false floor build into one of the Dolphin Quest Hawaii – Waikoloa, HAWAII Liko, an 11-year -old male Atlantic Bottlenose cub (Ursus maritimus) met park visitors in early May Pet Porpoise Pool – Coffs Harbour, NEW SOUTH WALES says Clint Wright, Vancouver Aquarium SVP and pools during winter time is completed. The false floor Photo Credit: dolphin, was transported mid-May of this year to the after acclimating to its new home. Environmental general manager. “At about 46 years of age, she was at is 12m (39 ft) in diameter and can lift up a group of five Dolphin Discovery The Pet Porpoise Pool has begun a gradual rebrand sister facility and bachelor pad at Dolphin Quest Oahu enrichment was also introduced to the cub. His mother, the end of her natural life and will be greatly missed by dolphins and trainers. to a public trading name of Dolphin Marine Magic. Alliance inspection at Dolphin Discovery Los Cabos (DQO). The transport was a huge success for Liko and all, including the 30 million members and visitors who The trainers have been using the false floor for Nina, was transported to Tianjin Polar Ocean World on Although the Pet Porpoise Pool is an iconic name with in June 2012. testament to his health and well-being. Liko has found a breeding loan as part of a polar bear conservation over 50 years of history in Australia, the new name have connected to Canada’s Arctic in a way that would enrichment training and in water interaction in order to make the lifting more comfortable for the animals. The a tight companionship with the other maturing males program within the Ocean Park group. is more in line with the modern industry and more not have been made possible other than through the at DQO including brother Nainoa and father Lono. He dolphins appear excited at the beginning of a training A northern fur seal (Callorhinus ursinus), accurately reflects the animals at the park. direct interactions with her at the Aquarium over the Dolphin Discovery Los Cabos – is successfully participating in interactive programs session when trainers are making preparations to lift introduced last December, delivered one female pup on Construction has begun on Dolphin Lagoon which past 36 years.” Los Cabos, MEXICO with guests and will be partaking in upcoming research 29 July 2012 at Marine Mammal World (MMW). Both will see the old concentre animal interaction area A necropsy of the beluga whale was conducted the floor. On June 2012, Dolphin Discovery Los Cabos opportunities. The staff at Dolphin Quest Hawaii (DQH) the mother and pup are doing well. From June to July, transformed into a tropical, sand bottomed beach with by Dr. Stephen Raverty of the Ministry of Agriculture, received an Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and misses Liko but the staff is very excited to see how much eight South American sea lion pups (Otaria flavescens) new amenities for guests. and assisted by Dr. Martin Haulena and other aquarium Dolfinarium Muenster – Harderwijk, NETHERLANDS Aquariums (AMMPA) inspection through the regular he’s already flourished being at DQO. The focus at DQH were born at MMW. The sea lion breeding program Dolphin Marine Magic has been involved in a staff. Preliminary results of the necropsy indicate that A lot of changes took place this spring and application protocols from Alexandria on April 2012. The is now preparing for the three anticipated births in the at Ocean Park greatly promotes the development of high number of animal rescues with staff attending a Kavna had lesions most consistent with cancer. There summer at Delphinarium Muenster, Germany. Kite, staff would like to say thank you to William Winhall and upcoming fall season. Jody Westberg for their patience and effort that was pinniped conservation. humpback whale (Megaptera novagliae) stranding; were wide-spread lesions affecting the reproductive the youngest member of the male bottlenose dolphin involved during the inspection. Los Cabos is the seventh as well as, rehabilitating and releasing several New tract as well as many other tissues. The treatment and group moved to Planete Sauvage, France. The trainers facility in the Dolphin Discovery group that is accredited care she had been receiving were focused on treating there are happy to say that he has acclimated well. Photo Credit: Dolphin Quest Oahu Zealand fur seals (Artocephalus fosteri) and sea birds by AMMPA and the sixth facility in the group to receive a reproductive disorder. Further tests will be conducted To fill the gap in the animal family, three 1-year-old in the last several months. IMATA accreditation. over the next few months. Californian sea lions, Janne, Giselle and Luise, came Sea World – Gold Coast, QUEENSLAND from Tiergarten Nuremberg, Germany to Muenster. The three youngsters are developing very well in their Dolphin Discovery Costa Maya – An Atlantic bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops CARIBBEAN ISLANDS REGION new home. Mahahual, Quitanta Roo, MEXICO truncatus), Ellie, is now 19 months old and is Adrian Penny, Atlantis Paradise Island – Last, but not least, a change in the management Hurricane season runs from June to October and consistently eating 1kg (2.2 lb) of fish a day, while at the Paradise Island, Bahamas can always be a threat for Quintana Roo, Mexico. of Delphinarium Muenster took place. After more than same time still nursing from her mother Squeak. Ellie’s Hurricane Ernesto arrived to the Costa Maya facility as 30 years of service, Frank den Herder retired and is training is progressing well and she is now spending Dolphin Explorer – Punta Cana, a category 1 hurricane the first week of August. Due to more time in the shows. An Atlantic bottlenose dolphin, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC followed by Henk Hiddingh and his wife Liliane Close. the proximity of the facility to open water, the animals Farglory Ocean Park Sunnie, who is 6 months pregnant, is progressing well. George Rodgers at Dolphin Explorer reports that were evacuated to Puerto Aventuras. All the animals are Dolphin Quest Oahu’s new shatterproof, water-safe mirror is the latest addition to its animal enrichment A West African manatee (Trichechus senegalensis) Sea World’s three female Indian bottlenose initial DNA testing of the facilities dolphins purchased doing well. Costa Maya will reopen at the end of August from Cuba establish excellent genetic diversity within Photo Credit: 2012 with the bottlenose dolphin collection. program. exhibiting more natural feeding behaviors through the dolphin calves (Tursiops truncatus aduncus), all 2 years Zoo Dortmund use of enrichment devices at Farglory Ocean Park. old, are participating in interactive programs in a guest the group, indicating that the animals represent a genetic star role for approx 5-10 mins each, 1-2 times per week. mix of resident inshore and more transient intermediate- Dolphin Discovery Puerto Aventuras – Two of Sea Lion Theatres’ Australian sea lions offshore bottlenose dolphins. This confirms Cuban Puerto Adventuras, Quitanta Roo, MEXICO Dolphin Quest Oahu – Honolulu, HAWAII Farglory Ocean Park – Hualien, TAIWAN (Neophoca cinerea) are in the midst of starring in a officials’ study observations that population numbers The dolphin breeding program in 2009 was Dolphin Quest Oahu’s (DQO) new shatterproof, extremely successful for Puerto Aventuras. That year, water-safe mirror is the latest addition to the animal At Farglory Ocean Park, a male West African movie Nim’s Island 2. Friday, a 17-year-old dolphin that drop in certain months around the island when many of the second generation of bottlenose dolphins was born, enrichment program. Because DQO’s six Atlantic manatee (Trichechus senegalensis) has been a resident starred in the original film, is taking a back seat and the animals are believed to mix with dolphins to the north thanks to Frida, 9 years old, and Audrey, 10 years old. bottlenose dolphins have been exposed to so many for 7 years. The manatee team has developed a new in Bahamian waters, similar to mixes in other populations, allowing 9-year-old BJ to take the lead role. Both boys Their calves Charley and Hidalgo are doing well. In different sights, sounds and objects; they quickly played strategy for feeding enrichment in recent years. In order such as the Gulf of Mexico. However, the DNA evidence are doing exceptionally well. August 2012, both females had calves again, celebrating with the mirror. Spectators and encounter program to motivate the animal to display different foraging It has been a busy time for the research and rescue suggests that the mixing of the northern Cuban dolphins another generation at Puerto Aventuras and Cozumel. guests are enjoying the animals’ interactions with their behaviors, food was placed in different locations in team this season with three New Zealand fur seals and is much more variable and widespread than in other reflections. The mirror also creates a great opportunity the exhibit, such as the surface of the water, under one sub-Antarctic fur seal (Arctocephalus tropicalis) areas. Dolphin Explorer will continue to invest in DNA for DQO to educate people about positive reinforcement An albino South American fur seal pup (Arctocephalus MIDDLE EAST REGION the water and at the bottom of the tank. For example, that were stranded, along with two humpback whale studies, which complement Cuban population research. training, desensitization training, and research on australis) born at the Dortmund Zoo. Tommy Wilken, Zoological Consultancy Worldwide – floats and weights were attached to a white rectangular entanglements. Animal Care had a successful breeding Rodgers attended the recent IMATA regional meeting in Dubai, United Arab Emirates dolphin self-recognition. sheet, allowing it to float within the water column. season with the little blue penguins (Eudyptula minor). Cuba at which Cuban officials made a presentation on Trainers then cut holes into the sheet where vegetables Three chicks have hatched so far. On 9 May 2012 the population studies that are the basis for their collection Zoo Dortmund – Dortmund, GERMANY Emirates Park Zoo – Abu Dhabi, UNITED ARAB Sea Life Park, Hawaii – Waimanalo, HAWAII were placed to enable the animal to forage. The goal of staff had the third and final import of six king and six of a limited number of dolphins annually. Cuba’s National On 26 May 2012 a male South American fur seal EMIRATES At the end of June 2012 at Sea Life Park, these creative enrichment devices is that the manatee gentoo penguins from Kelly Tarlton’s in New Zealand. Aquarium web site lists both the completed population pup was born at the Dortmund Zoo. He is an albino. At Emirates Park Zoo, the South African fur seals Hawaii, Dr. Carmen Colitz and her team, along with will exhibit more natural feeding behaviors. The staff has been working on introducing a bridge and research undertaken from 2002 to 2010. Unfortunately, his mother died only 8 weeks later. Since (Actrocephalus pussilus) had a busy summer season staff veterinarian Dr. Bethany Doescher, performed a recall with the gentoos, which is going well. that time, animal keepers have been taking care of the educating and entertaining the residents of the UAE. eye surgery on Lambchop, a female Hawaiian monk Ocean Park – Hong Kong, CHINA Sea World has commenced construction on a little pup. He is developing well and looks really funny Sanga, Swan and Still traveled for a period of 1 month seal (Monachus schauinslandi). The staff is happy to Polar Adventure is the final project of Ocean Park’s new seal exhibit, along with the construction of a new with his red-purple eyes and pink flippers. For now, he is to Abu Dhabi biggest summer festival called Summer announce the successful removal of two cataracts, as well as, the speedy recovery of Lambchop who is master re-development plan and has been opened dolphin pool, in anticipation of the completion at the not visible to the public. There are 2.2 South American fur in Abu Dhabi Exhibition to perform daily educational shows for a total of close to 100,000 visitors. It was currently spending time behind-the-scenes. It has been to guests on 12 July 2012. Arctic marine mammals end of December 2012. seals that cohabitat with him on alternating schedules. interesting watching Lambchop recover her sight. Thank including spotted seals (Phoca largha), Pacific walrus In the beginning, one of the males was startled by the a great success for The NITO Group with visits from several Royal Families of different Emirates to meet and you Dr. Carmen Colitz for all that you do for the animals (Odobenus rosmarus), stellar sea lions (Eumetopias albino, but the others were not affected by the animals CANADA REGION interact with the mammals. at zoos and aquariums around the world. jubatus) and variety of sub-Antarctic penguin species Brian Sheehan, Vancouver Aquarium – appearance. The staff named him Rubio which means Billy and Molly stayed back at Emirates Park Zoo The Hawaii Ocean Theatre staff has been busy blond in spanish. such as king penguins (Aptenodytes patagonicus), Vancouver, British Columbia for daily shows, interaction, and breeding. Medical training the California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) gentoo penguins (Pygoscelis papua), and southern procedures in the next few weeks will determine if and the Humbolt penguins (Speniscus humboldti) to rockhopper penguins (Eudyptes chrysocome) are now Vancouver Aquarium – Photo Credit: Dolphinarium Nuernberg MEXICO REGION Molly is pregnant. wear costumes for the annual Halloween show. This being housed there. Vancouver, BRITISH COLUMBIA Alejandro G. Mata, Dolphin Discovery – All animals are now trained for voluntary blood. should be a big hit for the park guests. The sea lions are Polar Adventure is the clearest expression of Vancouver Aquarium staff and volunteers are The new false floor at Dolphinarium Nuernberg. Cancún, Quintana Roo Also, preparations are being made for the new shows also being trained to walk around the stadium holding a

18 Volume 37, Number 4 SOUNDINGS 2012 SOUNDINGS 2012 Volume 37, Number 4 19 trick-or-treat bucket. outdoor pool and habitat features varying depths of Surfer. The Marine Theater staff would like to thank had sea lion competitive events and promoted physical The staff would like to welcome three new water and rocky outcroppings. At one end of the pool is summer interns Allison Pfiefer, Andy Devereaux, and Photo Credit: Alaska SeaLife Center fitness while showcasing the California sea lions apprentice trainers to the park, Carla Cutino, Brittni Rice, a shallow beach where animals can go for sun bathing, Cassie Hill. amazing natural adaptations. This summer also saw and Lizzy Sonoda, who were all spring 2012 interns. The feeding, and training. The water becomes deeper at the The Mystic Aquarium Stranding Program is the completion of a multi-phase life support update and park wishes a fond farewell and best of luck to Nicole other end of the pool, where visitors find an expansive rehabilitating six harbor seal pups received from the addition of a Life Support Supervisor for the marine Enright, Jessica Dempsy, and Shelly Potts. The park window to watch the sea lions underwater, another first other facilities in the summer. The team is also caring mammal systems. would also like to thank the summer interns for all their for the Saint Louis Zoo. A harbor seal is expected to join for two gray seals (Halichoerus grypus). Sea turtle hard work and welcome the fall interns of 2012. the sea lions at Sea Lion Landing later this summer. stranding season has included numerous reports for SeaWorld San Antonio – San Antonio, TEXAS The Lichtenstein Sea Lion Arena, home to the dead loggerheads (Caretta caretta), greens (Chelonia Summer has been busy as usual at SeaWorld First Bank Sea Lion Show, features an 811-seat mydas), and leatherbacks (Dermochelys coriacea). A live SOUTH AFRICA REGION San Antonio. Aquatica debuted to rave reviews and amphitheater, the large Ann Lux Family Stage, a leatherback was successfully disentangled off the coast Gabby Harris – Durban, South Africa was featured on Travel Channel’s Xtreme Waterparks. 151,416.5 L (40,000-gallon) see-through pool, a rock of Newport, Rhode Island with the help of the local US The new Stingray Encounter at Aquatica’s Ke-Re- bridge extending into the audience and a high diving Coast Guard station. Photo Credit: uShaka Marine World Reef features cownose (Rhinoptera bonasus) and platform and slide, all designed to show off the sea The Arctic Coast team had a very successful southern stingrays (Dasyatis americana) for guests to lions' natural abilities. Audiences will be thrilled by summer season with public programming. Thanks are learn about while having the opportunity to feed and the powerful swimming, flipper walks, balancing acts, due to summer interns Alyssa Deats and Azzara Oston touch. Roseate spoonbills (Ajaia ajaja), kookaburra’s and lots of splashing demonstrated by these incredible for a job well done. The team would also like to thank (Dacelo novaeguineae), scarlett macaws (Ara macao), animals. seasonal assistant trainer Kathryn Kahover for all of her and blue and gold macaws (Ara ararauna); as well as, “At Sea Lion Sound, visitors will see our sea lions hard work. other animal ambassadors complete the south seas close-up. They will be able to interact directly with Mystic Aquarium would like to wish Kimberly atmosphere. Next up is the Halloween season, the park these magnificent marine mammals and learn from that Cummings best wishes as she has taken a senior trainer is already hiring for ghoulish characters to roam the park contact. We believe this experience will build a new position at New England Aquarium. and set the tone for another Howl-o-scream. SeaWorld understanding of these highly adaptable, social creatures Alaska beluga baby rescue crew. San Antonio looks forward to continued support of and the need for their conservation," said Dr. Jeffrey P. A young participant with a canine companion from New York Aquarium – New York, NEW YORK IMATA and the zoological community at large. Bonner, Dana Brown President and CEO of the Zoo. In the summer, The New York Aquarium celebrated the annual Nelson Mandela charity day at uShaka Schuster is progressing well with open contact begun with 1.0 polar bear Conrad. He is progressing Marine World. the birthday of Nuka, a 30-year-old Pacific walrus training and is currently learning full body tactile. The quickly with the behavior, in part due to a new custom- U.S. SOUTHEAST REGION (Odobenus rosmarus divergens), and welcomed two U. S. NORTHEAST REGION established 3.0 sea otters continue to do well in their built polar bear crate with multiple access panels. additions to the collection, Anna, the first black-footed Sarah Graff, Miami Seaquarium – Miami, Florida Beth Manning – Baltimore, Maryland training. The Marine Life department would like to welcome penguin (Speniscus demersus) chick to be born at NYA Sea World at uShaka Marine World – The staff is very excited to announce the success Celess Zinda as the newest full-time staff member. in over a decade, and Quint, a 1.0 southern sea otter Clearwater Marine Aquarium – Clearwater, FLORIDA Durban, SOUTH AFRICA Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition Center – of cataract removal surgery on 0.2 harbor seals. The (Enhydra lutris nereis) from the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Clearwater Marine Aquarium's youngest dolphin, The Mammal and Bird staff took part in the Riverhead, Long Island, NEW YORK surgery was performed by Dr. Carmen Colitz and her Sea Otter Research and Conservation program. Quint U.S. SOUTH CENTRAL REGION Hope, has just been introduced to another dolphin annual Nelson Mandela charity day. The staff The Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition team in May. Both animals have regained their sight. was the final pup raised by Joy, Monterey's super mom Shannon Ray, Oklahoma City Zoo – Oklahoma City, for the first time since she was 2 months old. As an collected blankets, leads, collars and pet food to assist successfully completed a very hot and busy summer As the summer winds down, the mammal team is Oklahoma surrogate. orphaned neonate still relying predominantly on underprivileged dog owners in one of the local rural season. The Animal Department opened a new exhibit anticipating the renovations to the front of the pinniped The craziness of the busy summer season was formula from a bottle, Hope was kept away from any areas. The staff also spent a day teaching pet care skills Creatures of the Night, housing a Hoffman’s Two-toed exhibit. To increase space to house animals off exhibit alleviated by three interns, including NYA’s first intern Houston Zoo – Houston, TEXAS con-specifics due to concerns over displacement and to the young enthusiastic participants. Also, the seal sloth (Choloepus hoffmanni), two Prehensile-tailed during the process, two new holding pools have been from overseas. They did a great job learning several The California sea lion area renovation schedule also to closely monitor progress. Once the formula encounters have begun and is proving to be a popular Porcupines (Coendou prehensilis), and approximately developed. One pool in particular will be of great use show scripts throughout the summer, as well as diving was extended to 10 weeks as the scope of the project made up about 10% of the diet, it was decided that experience with the public. 120 Long-tongued nectar bats (Macroglossus minimus). if and when a water program with the animals and all of the pools weekly and assisting staff with training broadened. The sea lion’s temporary home at HZI’s on- it was time for introductions to the oldest resident, a The staff is happy to congratulate the following The animals are all doing well adjusting to their new guests is instated. sessions. site vet clinic needed some creative adjustments to female named Panama, estimated to be about 40 years team members on their promotions: Kerry Cahill and home and the staff is enjoying learning about and taking The mammal staff welcomes Noel Sutton and Training with the 1.1 leopard sharks (Triakis handle the length of stay and the salt water environment. old. So far socialization could not be going better. They Arenea Sleeman to Senior Trainers; Raecine Bates to care of new animals. bids farewell to Shannon Westman. Congratulations semifasciata) is advancing quickly, with the sharks With the support of multiple departments a 26,498 behave very much like one would expect mother and Trainer 2; Tarryn Abrahams, Johathan Ellerbeck and The summer California sea lion show called to the past interns Christina Tweed for her position targeting, accepting tactile interaction, and interacting L (7,000 gallon) above ground pool, decking, shade calf to behave. It was only a few weeks after the initial Bilal Limbada to Trainer 1; Cyril Mdlalose to Assistant Sergeant Salty and the Pesky Polluter was a success. It as a trainer at the Virginia Aquarium and to Brittany in sessions almost every day. The summer interns structure and filtration were installed in record time. introduction that Hope reached another milestone and Trainer; and Umesalma Wahab has been taken on as an was also fun for the staff, volunteers, and interns. The Iverson for her position in Singapore. Best of luck to also helped staff have time to reinvigorate sea turtle Once settled in at their temporary home the challenges was weaned off formula completely. Apprentice Animal Care. staff would like to thank all the volunteers and interns Emily Wolford and Emily Boyd as they move on to training in the main shark exhibit, and the turtles quickly of breeding season began to be evident. It was even for all of their help. The show wouldn’t be possible new internship adventures and school. Welcome Kelly responded to the revived training and are already more interesting with the 4-year-old male going through Photo Credit: U.S. MIDWEST REGION without all of their dedication and cooperation. Larson and Katie Simpson to the fall intern team. his first rut. One advantage with the temporary location Texas State Aquarium Stacey Lonski, Indianapolis Zoo – Indianapolis, IN The staff underwent a lot of changes also, and accepting tactile interaction. After another successful, and busy, season of sea was its inaccessibility to the public and provided the sea would like to bid a sad farewell to trainer Danielle lion staff the freedom to add more variability to the sea Como Zoo – St. Paul, MINNISOTA Stango and wish her the best of luck in her future lion shows and encounters at NYA’s Aquatheater, the staff is excited about the major renovations in the fall. lions schedules. As a result, staff was able to maintain The staff at the Como Zoo has been very busy endeavors. Another sad farewell to trainer Anne Haas all established behaviors and weekly vet visits, learn with the addition of animals from Lake Superior Zoo and best wishes as she heads back to school to pursue new behaviors and even had a few tours. The temporary U.S. NORTHWEST REGION due to the recent flood waters in Duluth, Minnesota. another dream. The staff would like to welcome two location has been challenging but has produced a Cinthia Alia-Mitchell – Tualatin, Oregon The staff has taken in 0.1 polar bear and 0.2 harbor new Apprentice Trainers, Jenna Mercurio and Meghan creative and dynamic atmosphere that has allowed seals (Phoca vitulina). The animals are settling in to Kelly to the team. continual growth for the sea lion department. their new surroundings. The staff has recently started Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium – introductions between Como Zoo’s 2.0 polar bears and Tacoma, WASHINGTON Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration – Oklahoma City Zoo – Oklahoma City, OKLAHOMA The new interactive sting ray lagoon at the Texas Duluth’s 0.1 polar bear. Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium had a 3 day Photo Credit: Mystic, CONNETICUT Show season is winding down at the Noble State Aquarium. celebration for ET, a male Pacific walrus, who turned 30 Oregon Zoo The Pacific Northwest team at Mystic Aquarium Aquatic Center at the Oklahoma City Zoo. The summer years old. ET arrived at PDZA in 1982 as an orphaned St. Louis Zoo – St. Louis, MISSUORI welcomes Buttonwood Park Zoo’s Atlantic harbor seals A new custom-built polar bear (Ursus maritimus) was jam-packed with sea lion birthdays, but one calf and has been an iconic figure in the community ever The Saint Louis Zoo's new Sea Lion Sound brings Blue, Yellow, and Sandy. The BPZ animals have joined crate with multiple access panels at the Oregon Zoo. especially notable was the birthday for the 26-year- Texas State Aquarium – Corpus Christi, TEXAS since. ET also became a world-wide star, showing off his visitors nose-to-nose with swimming California sea Pacific harbor seal Spanky and Steller sea lion, LA, old retired show star and guest favorite named Moe. The Texas State Aquarium is slowly wrapping up many vocalizations on a YouTube video that went viral lions (Zalophus californianus) through an exhibit opening temporarily while their exhibit undergoes repairs. The He is enjoying the life of retirement with two harbor a very busy summer season. The aquarium recently with over a million hits. The staff continues to celebrate to the public on 30 June 2012. Sea Lion Sound features PNW team thanks summer interns Tierney O'Neal, Kelly Oregon Zoo – Portland, OREGON seals, Liberty and Leo, as well as some sea lions that opened the newest addition, Stingray Lagoon. It is ET and all that he does to be an ambassador for his a walk-through, transparent tunnel into the sea lion Griffin, Emma Fowler, and Corinne Rainey on an amazing The Oregon Zoo has begun voluntary subcutaneous come to his exhibit pool to spend free time after shows. the most interactive exhibit to date. Stingray Lagoon species. habitat, the first in North America, and a landscape job. The staff also congratulates Jessi Smashey, who is fluid training with 1.1 polar bears, 2.0 steller sea lions, The training staff had several challenges to overcome is 37,854 L (10,000 gallons) of seawater and home to inspired by the rugged Pacific Northwest coast. joining the team as assistant trainer, and welcome back 1.1 southern sea otters, 1.1 Amur tigers and 1.1 Amur this season with animal procedures and actively over thirty rays representing the southern, Atlantic Enterprise Rent-A-Car Family Sea Lion Landing trainer Ray Molnar. Oregon Coast Aquarium – Newport, OREGON leopards. All animals are progressing well with their breeding sea lions within the show sea lion group. (Dasyatis sabina), and cownose species. Guests have features a spectacular 10 m (35-foot-long) underwater The Marine Theater team incorporated the two In February, the Oregon Coast Aquarium received training. These challenges helped staff to increase creativity several opportunities throughout the day to feed the viewing tunnel, where visitors can see animals female California sea lions, Sakari and Cali, into the a southern sea otter from the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Following the successful blood draw training with behaviors, animal rotations, and show messaging. stingrays when they attend the newly added Feed the swimming around them. This spacious, year-round summer show, alongside the veteran males, Coco and Through an online contest he was named Schuster. with 0.1 polar bear Tasul, blood draw training has now Taking a cue from the Olympics, several shows also Rays program, given from a live presentation area.

20 Volume 37, Number 4 SOUNDINGS 2012 SOUNDINGS 2012 Volume 37, Number 4 21 Mammal Research and Conservation Program The Memphis Zoo is proud to announce a new the amputation of the affected flipper, veterinarians The North American river otters (Lontra canadensis) enrichment and trainers are actively coming up with as experienced trainers at facilities housing marine Fort Pierce, FLORIDA addition to the sea lion pool. On 27 June 2012, Callie, discovered the animal was pregnant. are being trained on retrievals from protected contact new ideas to challenge them. The California sea lion mammals. Program and application information are HBOI-MMRC recently completed its 8th annual a 10- year-old sea lion, gave birth to a female pup On 18 July 2012, the rescued manatee gave birth to to proactively manage items being thrown into the (Zalophus californianus) exhibit at the Audubon Zoo available at http://www.dolphins.org/visit_cmmp.php. dolphin health and environmental risk assessment named Teva, which is being hand raised, but is healthy a healthy male calf. Animal care specialists monitored exhibit. The Aquarium would like to welcome new staff sustained some damage during Hurricane Isaac, but (HERA) in the Indian River Lagoon in June 2012. The and doing well. Currently Teva is being introduced mother and calf activity around the clock. Two weeks members Jay Jensen, Nicole McCormick and Julie animals and staff are all doing well. Dolphins Plus and Dolphins Cove – goals of the HERA Project are to better identify health to swimming, and will soon meet the 1.3 sea lions after birth, mother and calf were in excellent health and Gorman to the team. Audubon staff would like to welcome Sarah Sayre Key Largo, FLORIDA threats to dolphins and links to possible environmental that call Memphis home. After that she will make her ready to return to the very area from which they were as the new senior sea lion trainer and Carly Hulse as the Dolphins Plus and Dolphin Cove would like to stressors. Due to tropical depression Debbie, HBOI’s appearance on exhibit. rescued. new aquarist at the Audubon Aquatic Center. Photo Credit: Tulsa Zoo welcome Jake Berman, Kate Lawrence, and Melissa HERA staff was only on the water for 4 days, instead of The staff bid farewell and would like to wish Curator of Animal Training Kelly Flaherty Clark Lopes to our Animal Care and Training Team. This the intended 8 days. Of the 25 intended target animals, Amy Brannigan good luck on her career change. The had this to say after returning from the release, “As an Clearwater Marine Aquarium – Clearwater, FLORIDA quarter, the Animal Care and Training Staff of both 18 dolphins were fully examined and safely released. In Memphis Zoo would also like to welcome Jen Conrad animal trainer, I’ve been bragging about the work our Clearwater Marine Aquarium Mammal Department Dolphins Plus and Dolphin Cove experienced repeated addition to standard HERA data collection protocols, the to the team. rescue team does for years and today I experienced it has welcomed two avian members, Ricky and Lucy. success in voluntary slide out and restraint behaviors for team sampled a high-value animal with lobomycosis, firsthand. Watching mom and calf swim off together The birds are African great white pelicans (Pelecanus medical procedures. utilized a new metagenomics study, deployed 4 satellite rivaled seeing a killer whale take its first breath or Both facilities are fortunate enough to witness the onocrotalus), and although they just moved in, they are tags, field tested a new iPad database application Photo Credit: Miami Seaquarium watching an affected audience experience the perfect growth and development of our new calves, Isaac, BB, no strangers to CMA. Ricky and Lucy starred in the film developed by Ocean Embassy, and completed a first- show. It was just amazing…we do great things, and I’m and Tashi. Via a combination of observational learning, Dolphin Tale as the pelican that lived on the roof, aptly ever television HERA documentary starring Animal so proud.” shaping and selective bridging techniques, the staff Planet’s Jeff Corwin. The Ocean Mysteries episode will named Rufus. Now that they have joined the family, has encouraged the calves’ voluntary interaction with Ricky and Lucy are being transferred to a training system air in October 2012. U.S. SOUTHWEST REGION Helmerich California sea lion team at the Tulsa Zoo. guests in the structured, natural and shallow water HBOI-MMRC is a National Marine Fisheries letter Brittany Harris, SeaWorld – San Diego, California based solely on positive reinforcement, with formal encounters. Island Dolphin Care’s latest addition, Tashi, of confirmation holder. MMRC staff is on-call 24/7 cues and criteria for the first time. The staff hopes to amazes and delights his trainers as he swims through and authorized to respond, transport, and provide care Monterey Bay Aquarium – Monterey, CALIFORNIA The Tulsa Zoo – Tulsa, OKLAHOMA build a deeper bond with the animals through positive hoops, retrieves objects with mom, and stops for guests and assistance to sick, injured or entangled marine The Sea Otter Exhibit family at the Monterey Bay It has been an exciting few months at the Tulsa reinforcement training. Clearwater Marine Aquarium to touch him at less than 2 weeks of age! mammals. The HBOI-MMRC team includes Founder and Aquarium is very sad to announce the loss of Joy, Zoo’s newest exhibit, Helmerich Sea Lion Cove. In would also like to welcome new Senior Trainers Tiffany The summer season for the Animal Care and Program Manager, Steve McCulloch, Staff Veterinarian, a 14-year-old sea otter. Joy raised a record number December 2012, the Tulsa Zoo welcomed home two Blake and Julianna McCarthy, as well as Associate Training Internship, as well as the Research Internship Juli Goldstein, D.V.M., Stranding Coordinator, Steve Top Deck Dolphins and trainers enjoy an underwater of sixteen stranded sea otter pups. Known as the resident sea lions, Dorsey and Briney. The grand opening Trainers, Erin Belleville, Talia Goffinet, and Emily Egan. Burton, Research Technician, Kenny Kroell, and enrichment session at Miami Seaquarium. aquarium’s Super Mom, she was humanely euthanized Photo Credit: Dolphins Plus of Helmerich Sea Lion Cove took place 17 March 2012 Veterinary Technician, Emily Langille. due to deteriorating health. Even though Joy had several and both sea lions celebrated their birthdays at the end Dolphin Connection – Key Largo, FLORIDA Miami Seaquarium - Miami, FLORIDA medical hindrances throughout the years, she was also of May with lots of fanfare. Briney turned 26 years old As part of our long term re-branding process, Marineland Dolphin Adventure – Miami Seaquarium is thrilled to welcome three known for her spunky and tough attitude. Joy will be and Dorsey turned 19 years old. The new Sea Lion Team Dolphin Connection is proud to announce a new new additions to the marine mammal collection. On greatly missed by public and staff alike. consists of Kaleigh Jablonski and Tiffany Chernoff. Marineland, FLORIDA Facebook page and a new website. Both sites are Mother’s Day, trainers and visitors welcomed a new The new sea lion exhibit has many exciting upgrades. August marked the end of a year-long research designed to provide information, education, and male Atlantic bottlenose dolphin calf, Azul, to the Top The Mirage – Las Vegas, NEVADA It contains approximately 378,541 L (100,000 gallons) project in which selected Marineland dolphins inspiration to students, teachers, visitors and those who Deck Dolphin Nursery. A 9-year-old California sea lion, Summer and the heat were definitely in full swing of manmade salt water, with a dedicated life support voluntarily contributed blood samples for a multi- simply dream of visiting. The staff would like to give a Sushi, gave birth to her first pup, Sake, on 24 May 2012. at The Mirage Dolphin Habitat. The animal training staff system; a demonstration area, and a 6 m (20 feet-long) institutional series of investigations. In keeping with big thank you to Lunar Cow for all their help with the Sake is already mouthing fish and has, so far, been has been busy with a variety of exciting projects and underwater viewing window. It also includes built in the goals of participating in research projects that have creation of www.dolphinconnection.com. Tashi and mom playing with hoop at Dolphins Plus. successfully raised by her mother. A few weeks later, on planning future programs. The staff has also been at full enrichment, such as a waterfall and an underwater conservation-based benefits to wild populations of The team at Dolphin Connection welcomes 14 June 2012, California sea lion, Bayou, gave birth to capacity for the Trainer for a Day Program which allows bubbler. Both sea lions are settling in nicely to their dolphins, the data from the Marineland dolphins was Lindsay Sweet who has joined the staff as an Assistant her second pup named Snapper. guests to shadow the trainers all day while gaining new home. Right now, staff is focusing on relationship compared to samples collected from free ranging wild Trainer. Amid a busy summer season, the staff has was a huge success. Thank you to all of the Animal Care Miami Seaquarium’s Animal Care and Veterinary excellent insight about the daily care and training of the building with the sea lions and desensitizing the animals dolphins. been honored with a partnership with the Marty Lyons and Research interns for their hard work and dedication staff are proud to have released West Indian manatees habitat’s 7.3 bottlenose dolphin family. A few of the most to work in all parts of the new exhibit. The staff is also pleased to announce the promotion foundation allowing Dolphin Connection to help make to the animals and staff, as each of them were an (Trichechus manatus) from the rehabilitation program. memorable highlights of the summer include the first The Tulsa Zoo would like to thank everyone who of Kevin Stephens to Supervisor of Animal Training. seriously ill children’s dreams come true. Lastly, Dolphin integral part of our success this summer! Dory and her calf, Nemo, were released on 17 July birthdays of both male dolphin calves, K2 and MiraMar. made Helmerich Sea Lion Cove a reality and give a Connection looks forward to sponsoring a luncheon and Dolphins Plus bids a fond farewell to Senior Trainer 2012, in Palm City, Florida. On the same day, Jasmine A party was thrown for each of the calves with large special thank you to the staff at the Oklahoma City Zoo Memphis Zoo – Memphis, TENNESSEE offering complimentary dolphin interactive programs Cassie Snider, Assistant Supervisor Julie McCarthy, and was also released in Plantation Key, Florida. Nemo and birthday cards placed around the habitat for guests to for taking such good care of Dorsey and Briney. Assistant to Director of Training Sarah Sayre and wishes Jasmine suffered boating injuries and were successfully for attendees at this September’s IMATA Regional Photo Credit: Memphis Zoo sign throughout the day, a Jell-O cake and new birthday Workshop, hosted by the Dolphin Research Center. them well in all future endeavors. rehabilitated in less than 6 months. beach balls. Both calves are eating extremely well and U.S. SOUTHEAST REGION continuously learning a variety of new behaviors from Sarah Graff, Miami Seaquarium – Miami, Florida Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park their trainers. Other highlights include visits by Wayne Dolphin Research Center – Grassy Key, FLORIDA Photo Credit: Seaworld Dolphin Research Center is excited to announce – Fort Walton Beach, FLORIDA Brady, Bill Engvall, Brooke Burke, Thomas “Hitman” Audubon Aquarium of the Americas – the establishment of the College of Marine Mammal Following a successful first summer of interaction Hearns, Sugar Ray Leonard, and the Kardashians. New Orleans, LOUISIANA Professions (CMMP). Licensed by the state of Florida, programming with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, In addition, the staff would like to wish interns Audubon Aquatic Center rescued and successfully the CMMP currently offers an Associate of Science California sea lions, harbor seals, and southern Denise Souffrant and Dani Meeks a fond farewell rehabilitated a 2 ½ year old, male Atlantic bottlenose Degree in Marine Mammal Behavior, Care, and Training stingrays, Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park continues and great thanks for all the hard work they both have dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) named Sassafras. For the with the intention of expanding to additional degrees to focus on the Sea Turtle C.A.R.E. Program (Conserve, contributed throughout the year. The habitat also would first few weeks, he was supported in the water by specific to marine mammal professions. Act, Rehabilitate, Educate), by treating and caring like to welcome incoming interns Danielle McMullen Audubon staff and volunteers round the clock. He was Students in the program will acquire practical for stranded or injured sea turtles found along the and Ty Stoll to The Mirage Dolphin Habitat family. treated for numerous medical conditions, including knowledge and skills to successfully assess behavior, Emerald Coast. In July 2012, a 2.2 kg (5 lb) Kemp’s severe sunburn. Physical therapy was performed in provide husbandry care, and apply positive training ridley (Lepidochelys kempii) was released back into REGIONAL REPORTS is compiled by Martha Hill order to help him swim. It was also later discovered that techniques for the well-being and enrichment of marine the Gulf after being treated by the Gulfarium staff he has a hearing deficit. Sassafras cannot hear within for inadvertently swallowing a fisherman’s line. The West-Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus) and calf mammals under human care. Graduates of this program released after rehabilitation from Seaworld Orlando. echolocation range, which became the determining will also be able to implement effective strategies and fisherman was praised for his decision to contact factor to deem him non-releasable. He was permanently techniques in educating a wide range of audiences. authorities rather than attempt to remove the hook placed with IMMS in Gulfport, Missippi. Students learn to be entertaining, informative, and himself or releasing the endangered turtle without SeaWorld – Orlando, FLORIDA At Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, Southern flexible during presentations with a manner that treatment. On 8 June 2012, a West-Indian manatee was sea otters (Enhydra lutris nereis) have been busy motivates people toward conservation practices Additionally, Gulfarium Marine Adventure spotted in Sykes Creek near Orlando, Florida. She had learning new behaviors in order to prepare for their that benefit marine mammals and the environment. Park would like to congratulate Amanda Barra for her severe trauma to her right pectoral flipper which was annual physicals. Now that Buck and Emma are 15 Students will gain general career skills preparing them promotion to Senior Trainer and is thrilled to welcome wrapped tightly with the line of a crab trap. SeaWorld's years old, the training staff will be incorporating new to communicate effectively, apply critical thinking,, and Shannon Yoskoski, Ashley Landwerlen, and Emily Animal Rescue team responded and transported husbandry behaviors that will help the otters into their participate in the work environment as positive team Thomas to the marine mammal training staff. Teva, a hand reared 1-month-old California sea lion the manatee to a recovery pool in the park’s rescue geriatric years. As usual, both otters enjoy their daily players. Graduates will be prepared to seek positions Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute’s Marine (Zalophus californianus) pup at the Memphis Zoo. and rehabilitation area. During care, which included

22 Volume 37, Number 4 SOUNDINGS 2012 SOUNDINGS 2012 Volume 37, Number 4 23 even done window work during the slower season when the crowd can ANSWER 4 When I asked this question to some of my fellow fit at underwater viewing. Besides changing the number of animals and/ trainers it sparked a lot of different views and opinions on what could be or location, we also try to change the show schedule as often as possible. done or used during shows to effectively capture and hold an animal’s All of these options keep our sessions more interesting by maximizing the attention. There are a number of different situations where some variables opportunity for variety. and training methods would be more effective than others based on which With all of these changes day to day, we have improved sea lion species and social dynamic you're working with. This is a really great behavior immensely. They never know what is going to happen next and question and it’s easy to see how a number of facilities would encounter are therefore much more patient. Even so, there are other things we can a situation like this. The only issue in answering this question is that

QUESTION: We seem to have challenges keeping constantly think about. The main question that pops into our minds when since every facility has a different social dynamic with their animals and our animals engaged at station during shows. They seem to the sea lions start to get impatient is “What is different between shows different components to their shows, there isn't going to be one answer and all other training sessions?” The best way to notice differences is to that works for all the possible variables. get easily distracted or impatient, which is not a problem have someone record your shows and then watch it back with a second The primary thing to consider when approaching a problem like outside of shows. Does anyone have suggestions about person. People are usually surprised at what they find out. The following this is trying to understand the social dynamics that are occurring within are some things to keep in mind. Is there a difference in the amount your group of animals; in this situation the most important being the how to remedy this? of attention you give the animal during a show? Is patience rewarded compatibility of paired or grouped animals and dominance. Some variables in between other behaviors as often as it is during a normal training to consider are what species you're working with, how many animals are session? Is there a difference in feeding schedules during the show or in the show at any given moment, the sex of the animals and whether or ANSWER 1 Here’s some input from SeaWorld Orlando’s ANSWER 2 Stationing is like any other behavior; you must are you feeding less often to make the reinforcement last longer? Is there not love is in the air, the food amounts that are being fed before, during, Animal Training team. Stationing is critical to show performance, new use successive approximations and build up to how long an animal can a difference in your reaction to incorrect behavior, i.e. are you giving a and after shows, and finally how many trainers and animals are interacting learning, and animal and trainer safety, and so it ought to have a very hold station and how long they can go without fish or attention. By proper LRS? during the show. Even though there are many different variables that need high frequency of reinforcement. We call this behavior a “stay” in our pushing an animal into immediately holding during 20-30 minute shows, To give a proper LRS you must give a neutral response. This can be to be accounted for, if you know and understand the precursors leading facility and it applies to all of the animals we train. When well trained the animal is inevitably going to become impatient. If possible, the sea awkward during a show, however, at Audubon Zoo, we have found that as into your problem you can find a solution that works for your situation. and maintained, the threshold is such that an animal will “stay” while lion should be gradually introduced to stationing without being in the long as we do not extend the 2-3 second mark and we move on talking like The issue with easily distracted or impatient animals can be solved by a trainer completely leaves the environment and returns up to minutes actual show until they are ready to hold long enough to introduce the nothing happened, the visitors do not even notice. In addition, by giving implementing simple but constant changes into your routine. The key to later, even in a show environment. Stationing is a behavior, however, that microphone, visitors, and other aspects on stage. For facilities that are proper LRS's during shows, our animals very rarely need them since their being successful here is never allowing yourself to become predictable is very easily and quickly negatively affected by a lack of reinforcement. not designed to take animals off exhibit during shows, giving attention behavior improves overall. and trying to always stay one step ahead. It is important to know each Without a more detailed description of the situation, and without more and reinforcement more often can also help. By treating our shows with as much variability as any other session, of your animals’ individual needs and habits because everything you do knowledge around how these animals are reinforced for stationing during At Audubon Zoo, once our animals have gone through these basic we not only enrich our sea lions' lives but we introduce more variety into or don't do determines how they'll react with each other or you during shows or sessions, our best guess suspects a show discrimination issue foundations, we have found that the key to encouraging our animals to be our job as trainers and enhance the guest experience. shows. This includes the type of reinforcement used during shows, the that is more pronounced due to ratio strain. more patient is variability. Without knowing what is going to happen next, different food amounts you make available to them, and even your own Probably one of the most difficult things for us to maintain in our we find the animals are more likely to behave in between behaviors. They Sea Lion Department personal performance in the show. trainers is to keep reinforcement application balanced in shows and don't know whether it will be two seconds or two minutes before they are Audubon Zoo Predictability in a show could be a large portion of the problem when sessions. We can’t help but lean toward allowing show timing, pacing, and given another sD. At Audubon Zoo, we try to do more than just vary length it’s obvious that the same is not occurring outside of shows. This can be audience reaction to dictate how, when and where we reinforce animal between behaviors. ANSWER 3 At our facility one of the most reinforced remedied by mixing up various components of your show like the order of behavior during those interactions. The fewer constraints a session brings Currently, Audubon Zoo houses 0.3 California sea lions (Zalophus behaviors is stationing. We have complex water work routines that behaviors and when or where reinforcement is given. Another thing you allows for a whole host of variable applications of reinforcement. So, our californianus). The trainers have found that the sea lions participate sometimes require one trainer to be in control of multiple animals. When could try is reducing the time given to the easily distracted or impatient first and foremost suggestion is to identify the differences in frequency more consistently if we treat our shows the same as any other session- this happens, we use stationing often and it’s important that the animal animals between behaviors. Start with shorter segments where the and variability of reinforcement application in a session and a show. A with variety. To facilitate this, we choose not to have a script but rather understands that it’s ok to remain at station while other animals come animal needs to be patient and focused on you and then heavily reinforce video of each will probably identify those differences quickly. We need to demonstration topics. Our topics usually include conservation, the and go. We always try to use the same criteria whether in shows or in them when they show good focus during these sessions. You can also challenge ourselves to be as engaging with our animals in a show as we difference between seals and sea lions, how we train, and adaptations. normal training sessions and this certainly applies to stationing as well. increase the primary reinforcement given during shows when the animal are in a session. Having the ability to change the order of the topics we discuss, also We practice good stationing in all types of training sessions, but no is focused and use more secondary reinforcement outside of shows when Here’s some more direct feedback that addresses how we would allows us to change the order of behaviors we use to demonstrate what matter what session we’re doing, stationing is always the most reinforced the patience and attention of the animals isn't an issue. If this is already approach a stationing problem. First of all, identify the behavior you are we are talking about. For example, when we talk about sea lions' front behavior. We also find that keeping our sessions as variable as possible being done then you could switch it up by doing the opposite and see if this looking to increase the frequency of; in this case, increased duration of flippers, we can ask for a flipper present, salute, wave, porpoise, ball facilitate good behavior throughout all of our different training sessions. helps catch your animal’s attention. If you can become more unpredictable stationing without continued trainer stimulus. Then, identify points of jump, etc. For each show, we do something different to keep the animal's If we ever notice that the stationing behavior is breaking down for one and continue to reinforce an animal being focused and patient then you predictable reinforcement or lack thereof in show performance. Next, pull attention. Because there is no exact script, visitors do not notice if an reason or another, we have found that stationing an animal in front of should have fewer challenges keeping them engaged at station during some of the primary reinforcement you are using during sessions and make animal refuses a behavior. We simply LRS and move on, rarely asking a bucket works well. This allows for more immediacy of reinforcement shows. a point to reinforce stationing early and often during the show regardless for the same behavior a second time. Trainers are able to use a different throughout the stationing behavior. However, we do not always have to of the affect doing so has on the show. Finally, be variable. Move the behavior instead, that will demonstrate the subject that the trainer is use a bucket. Using other secondary reinforces can have a remarkable Hugo Santana animal away from the station often for nominal reinforcement, and heavily talking about. The animals have learned quickly to do everything on the impact as well. We have a lot of places around the pool where our Marineland of Canada reinforce increased duration at station with food, a touch, a nod, a toy, ice, first try because we are not usually going to ask for it again. animals can station during the show so it’s important for trainers to be or the opportunity to move to another area and station there. Another aspect of variability that we incorporate is which sea lions quick but also maintain appropriate timing and criteria. We have found ANSWER 5 At the National Aquarium we have eight dolphins are in the show and for what part of the show. Usually it works well to that if we effectively communicate to the animals that all sessions require that do between three and four shows a day. Show/session discrimination Animal Training Team use two sea lions on our main beach, but we can also just use one for the the same attention and criteria, then stationing like any other behavior is is an issue that comes up now and again. In looking over your question SeaWorld Orlando entire show or use all three. Due to the fact that we thrive on variability, maintained strongly as well. we thought of three things to consider: reinforcement, distractions, and it also doesn't faze them to mix up the location. For example, we can trainer actions. bring our sea lions down a path along the side of the theater, bringing the Angelo Henriques Reinforcement: In general, sessions are typically shorter and require animal closer to the guests. Another option is to have a sea lion station at Training Curator less energy from an animal than a show. Try setting aside more food to the exhibit glass with the trainer feeding over the viewing glass. We have Zoomarine Italy use in a show scenario to help combat ratio strain. Also, shows are more

24 Volume 37, Number 4 SOUNDINGS 2012 SOUNDINGS 2012 Volume 37, Number 4 25 Another potential distraction could be social dynamics. Shows require the animals to be together/apart for longer periods of time. Is there a way to break up your show into shorter segments? Breaking from the animals during a longer video/audience participation segment would allow them to interact for short periods of time. Trainer Actions: In sessions, we usually have most of our attention and eye contact on the animal in front of us. However, in a show scenario our attention has to be divided between showmanship, other trainers, other animals, etc. Remember that animals get a lot of information from predictable and structured than sessions, causing variability to become body language. Clapping or paying off a behavior can become a cue to an even more important. Adding in more secondary reinforcement or even animal that no reinforcement will be coming at that moment. By making changing the schedule of reinforcement you are using could be beneficial. an effort to keep eye contact during these times you can communicate to Lauren Prutow McKenna1 & Michelle Remember that stationing itself is a behavior. While you want to make the animal that you are still working with them. CARE AND HANDLING E. Campbell2 sure to keep show behaviors strong, focus on shifting reinforcement to We hope these suggestions bring you success! 1Dolphin Quest Hawaii good calm attention at station. OF NEONATE BOTTLENOSE DOLPHINS 2Quest Global Management Distractions: Take a look at some of the extra stimuli that are present TRAINER’S FORUM is compiled by Robert Roozendaal (Tursiops truncatus); A CLINICAL AND BEHAVIORAL APPROACH during shows that may not be present in sessions (lights, music, videos, props, etc). It may help to desensitize your animals to these environmental The care and handling of bottlenose dolphins has evolved continuously The morphometric and hematologic values collected now serve as our changes by including one or more of these extra stimuli in sessions. over the last two decades. Advances in husbandry behaviors have been calf baseline data. Overall, we have now established the norms for calf age embraced in the management and handling of neonate Tursiops truncatus. group and for each individual calf. This then allows us to clearly identify At Dolphin Quest, these advances allowed for the establishment of when a calf is trending outside of the norm. Project Newborn has given us a benchmarks for the care and handling of neonate bottlenose dolphins. strong database, and the ability to raise healthy neonates with great results! The historical approach to handling neonate bottlenose dolphins has been more reactive in nature. All observations were hands-off, and we Healthy Neonate Benchmarks Notices Announcements physically intervened only if something seemed abnormal. The drawback There are four key benchmarks both medically and behaviorally for & of the historical approach is that baseline data and samples from healthy healthy neonates that serve as indicators of how the calf is doing. AALSO 2013 SYMPOSIUM ZACC CONFERENCE PHOTOS NEEDED dolphin calves had not been collected. Samples were only collected The 19th annual Aquatic Animal Life Support Zoos and Aquariums: Committing to Conservation All IMATA members are invited to submit Operators symposium will take place in the San will hold a conference in Des Moines, Iowa, 8-12 photographs for use in Soundings magazine. High from animals that required assessment and/or treatment. Therefore, we Francisco Bay area in 2013. Continue to visit www. July 2013. The conference will be hosted by the quality images at 300dpi are preferred. Please have used baseline data from dolphin adults to determine diagnoses and aalso.org as more information becomes available. Blank Park Zoo. Visit www.zaccconference.com identify the photographer for credit and mail your for more information. photos to “IMATA Photo Archivist” as well as treatments, which may in fact not be accurate for calves. In addition, with ASZK CONFERENCE “Soundings Chief Editor” at the IMATA Central this approach, we are limited in our comprehensive animal care practices The Australasian Society of Zoo Keeping Inc. will be ABS ANNUAL CONFERENCE Office, [email protected]. holding its 2013 conference in Auckland, Australia. The 50th annual conference for the Animal Behavior because of our lack of knowledge about what can and cannot be done. Visit www.aszk.org.au as updates come available. Society will be held in Boulder, Colorado during the IMATA LIBRARY Trainers everywhere have made progress in expanding our views on what dates of 28 July to 1 August 2013. Continue to visit Are you looking for an article from a past conference EAAM 41ST ANNUAL SYMPOSIUM http://animalbehaviorsociety.org for information. or an old issue of Soundings? IMATA’s library is both these animals and ourselves are capable of, and we still have room The European Association for Aquatic Mammals available online to Associate, Active, and Professional to grow. This conservative approach, while successful, prevents us from Figure 1: Examples of nursing events and key parameters used to monitor will be holding its 41st annual symposium 15-18 ICEE CONFERENCE members! Go to imata.org and click Publications. Our nursing. This table represents one individual neonate on day three. March 2013. The conference will be hosted by the The 11th International Conference on Environmental searchable index is also found there. advancing animal care; so new approaches are vital to further develop care Nurnberg Zoo in Nurnberg, Germany. Please visit Enrichment will take place 4-8 August 2013. This and handling techniques. www.eaam.org for more information. event will be hosted by the National Research CHANGING ADDRESSES, JOB TITLES, Medical Benchmark 1: Dam Nutrition Foundation and National Zoological Gardens in OR EMAIL? Establishing a paradigm shift to a more proactive approach by both AZA MID-YEAR MEETING Skukuza Camp, Kruger National Park, South Africa. Keep your information current on IMATA’s website. collecting baseline data and samples from healthy dolphin calves through a A dam’s dietary intake is a key component for calf growth and The American Zoological Association will be Visit www.enrichment.org for more information. You have the ability to update your information. It’s robust neonate management plan will help us reap more benefits over time. development. At DQ, we provide an open-ended diet in hopes that their holding the mid-year meeting 7-12 April 2013. as easy as 1, 2, and 3. The event will be hosted by the South Carolina AZA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 1. Log onto the member’s section of the IMATA By embracing this proactive approach, Dolphin Quest (DQ) has collected data caloric intakes will double post-partum. This diet consists of higher calorie Aquarium in Charleston, South Carolina. Updates The American Zoological Association annual website with your username and password. through observation and hands-on approaches and set behavioral goals to options like Alaskan herring (Clupea pallasii), Pacific saury (Cololabis saira), can be found at www.aza.org. conference is being held 7-12 September 2013 in 2. Click on edit profile and update your Kansas City, Missouri. The event will be hosted by current information. establish benchmarks for healthy neonates. We use these benchmarks to or Pacific sardines (Sardinops sagax). (Figure 1.) ABMA CONFERENCE the Kansas City Zoo. Please visit ww.aza.org for 3. After updating your information, click on guide neonate rearing from a proactive standpoint. Our proactive solution The Animal Behavior Management Alliance 2013 updates. submit at the bottom of the page and recheck conference will take place 14-19 April 2013. This the information you just entered. involves both medical management and behavioral management. event will be hosted by the Toronto Zoo in Toronto, AAZK NATIONAL CONFERENCE That’s all you have to do. Your changes are To establish morphometric and hematologic benchmarks, we start Canada. Visit www.theabma.org for updates. The American Association of Zoo Keepers immediately entered into the website. If you have conference will take place in Asheboro, North any problems, click on feedback, and write your with collecting accurate weights on dam and calf to monitor weight gain IAAAM 44TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE Carolina, 22-26 September 2013. Continue to visit questions in the comment section. and collect blood to begin to track norms. This must be done safely and The International Association for Aquatic Animal http://aazk.org for information. Medicine conference will take place 21-26 April WEBSITE accurately. At DQ, we established Project Newborn in 2003. Our vision was 2013. The event will be hosted by The Marine EAZA ANNUAL CONFERENCE Visit us online at www.imata.org. to handle healthy dolphin calves in a calm and controlled manner so we Mammal Center in Sausalito, California. Updates The European Association of Zoos and Aquaria could collect accurate baseline data and samples. First, we conditioned can be found at www.iaaam.org. will hold the 2013 conference in Edinburgh, United NOTICES & ANNOUNCEMENTS is compiled Kingdom, on 24-28 September 2013. Updates can be by Haley Merritt. calm collections with pregnant dams and then progress to newborns. The ABC ANIMAL TRAINING WORKSHOP found at www.eaza.net. Figure 2: Graph shows first confirmed nursing of calves for four individual dams Learn the science of animal training while WAZA ANNUAL CONFERENCE initial process includes calf-safe crowding panels that we make to fit our having fun working with dolphins, sea lions and The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums natural environment. We employ SCUBA divers and multiple personnel to over years 1994 through 1997. manatees. The 2013 workshops are hosted by annual conference will be hosted by Disney’s handle them. We desensitize the dams and calves to the Project Newborn Dolphin Discovery Puerto Aventuras, Riveria Maya, Animal Kingdom in Orlando, Florida, on 13-17 Medical Benchmark 2: Nursing Mexico. Basic courses are scheduled for 29 May to October 2013. Continue to visit www.waza.org for equipment. Over time, we approximate the reduction of necessary equipment 2 June 2013 and 26-30 August 2013. The advanced information. The first confirmed nursing event (Figure 2) is defined as the amount courses are scheduled for 5-9 June 2013 and 1-5 and personnel. We repeat training monthly with dam and calf post-partum. September 2013. Further information is available at To date, we have collected morphometric data and hematologic values from of time it takes a calf to begin nursing post-partum. We have seen first www.abcanimaltraining.com. 17 healthy calves of various ages. confirmed nursing anywhere from three to eight hours following the birth of

26 Volume 37, Number 4 SOUNDINGS 2012 SOUNDINGS 2012 Volume 37, Number 4 27 CONFIRMED NURSING the right track. However, a calf that is nursing 80 Date 3.26.08 6:00 7:00 8:00 9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 Avg. seconds per hour on Day 9 is a red flag. While it’s Total Nursing 0.0 0.0 35.0 126.0 49.0 69.0 66.0 100.0 62.0 34.0 91.0 77.0 59.1 natural to think the longer Sec/Hr the nursing time the better, 80 seconds does not fall Avg. Nurse 0.0 0.0 2.9 4.5 4.5 5.3 6.0 4.5 3.1 3.8 5.1 3.7 3.6 within our optimal range Duration for nursing performance on Day 9 (see Figure 4). This # Nurse Bouts/Hr 0.0 0.0 12.0 28.0 11.0 13.0 11.0 22.0 20.0 9.0 18.0 21.0 13.8 Figure 10: A calf exhibiting an inadequate weight gain on day 14 (at could indicate any number the start of intervention management). of things; one being that Figure 3: Graph depicts daily fish consumption of four dams during first week following parturition. Imperial data is available through the authors. the calf is having trouble Behavioral Management latching on. Figure 7: Graph depicts age of calf versus length measurement. Imperial data is available At DQ, behavioral approaches related to advancing the the calf. It is important to distinguish attempts to nurse versus a successful through the authors. latch-on, which is evident by proper calf body positioning, milk expulsion Medical Benchmark 3: Calf Weight Gain care and handling of neonate bottlenose dolphins within their first few months of life are vital to neonate health. These at times, and a slight open mouth connection. Should nursing not occur by Once we know our calf is nursing, the next milestone is monitoring include physically handling newborns, putting calves on an the eighth hour, then a proactive approach may be necessary and should be proper weight gain. Safety remains a priority for the calf. One of the first accelerated pathway toward eating fish, gating, stationing, discussed, for example, collecting the calf and supplementing with formula. concerns for weighing a calf is removing the individual from the water and participating in programs with guests. Once successful nursing is confirmed, we begin to monitor nursing over environment. This can be very risky as their medical parameters change time. Collecting accurate, real-time data is crucial. DQ staff monitors nursing quickly in these situations. Morphometric measurements (girth and length) Behavioral Benchmark 1: Acclimation in 12-hour blocks (6am to 6pm represents daytime). The key parameters we collected with a tape measure are reliable and relatively easy to obtain Once dam and calf are showing signs of meeting our use to monitor nursing are: total nursing seconds per hour, average nurse (Figure 5). A calculated weight is then determined with the use of a large initial acclimation milestone, we begin to focus on actively duration, and the number of nursing bouts per hour. We rely mostly on total game fish equation (length in inches x (girth squared)/800) to determine the nursing seconds per hour as the main indicator of success. (Figure 3.) managing them behaviorally. The events we look for to DQ staff has found that nursing performance changes with age. meet the acclimation milestone are: successful placenta Optimal nursing time and ranges can be determined based on the calf’s delivery, dam and calf bond, successful nursing, dam and age. For example, a calf that nurses 80 seconds per hour on Day 1 is on trainer interaction, and dam dietary intake. We normally see these within 48 hours after birth. We begin to handle the calf once it meets the acclimation milestone. DQ staff Figure 8: Graph depicts age of calf versus girth measurement. Imperial data is available starts the dam and calf collection process by reinforcing a through the authors. consistent calm response. The collection conditioning we do

Figure 4: Tursiops neonate nursing performance in sec/hr during the first ten Figure 5: Handling calf for morphometrics days after birth (n=8). Shortest, longest, and average nursing times are noted.

value (Fish Weight Formula, 2012). Neonate Metric Weight Gain (<60 days) (Figure 6.) From our experiences, Calf Age Girth Length Calc. Wt. Scale Wt. Gain/day the calculated weight and the (days) (cm) (cm) (kg) (kg) (kg) scale weight are nearly equivalent Bermudiana 15 68.6 24.5 (Figure 6). Therefore, handling a calf out of the water for a Figure 9: (Metric) Neonate actual metric weight gain in first year. Imperial data is available Bermudiana 46 77.5 31.7 0.24 scale weight due to its risk may through the authors. Nea 18 76.2 28.1 only be necessary in a medical Nea 55 83.8 36.3 0.22 management situation to get a such as formula supplementation. A visual indicator of inadequate weight gain includes confirmed weight. the presence of concavity in the fat pad behind the skull (referred to as “peanut head”). Halia 20 71.9 121.9 21.6 21.5 DQ’s standard neonatal (Figure 10.) Halia 37 74.9 124.9 24.6 24.6 0.20 girth and length measurements Hua 20 69.8 114.3 19 are found in Figures 7 and 8. A Medical Benchmark 4: Mottling standard neonatal weight gain We look for a calf to undergo what we refer to as the mottling process, a condition Hua 33 72.4 118.1 21.4 0.18 averages about 227 grams a day of spotting with patches of grey color. This begins around Day 4 and ends around Luna 29 83.8 29 (0.5 lb/day). (Figure 6, 9.) If we Day 12. Figure 11 shows the mottling process, which is the normal progression of skin see a calf that is exhibiting an *Formula for calculating weight: [length (in.) x girth (in.)2]/800, the final figure is then converted to cm. development in neonates. Here too, one can see how a calf progresses through various inadequate weight gain, we will color and skin changes over a ten-day period. Once again, a calf not hitting this milestone Figure 11: Normal progression of skin development in Figure 6: (Metric): Table of calf morphometrics under 60 days old. Imperial data is available through the authors. begin intervention management neonates (mottling). could be an indicator for concern.

28 Volume 37, Number 4 SOUNDINGS 2012 SOUNDINGS 2012 Volume 37, Number 4 29 of the individual dam and calf. We don’t expect the dam to stop and RISK BENEFIT station initially, so we start by Interfering with calf stabilization Enrichment for dam tossing fish in front of the dam as Social incompatibility Exposure for calf she approaches. This has allowed us to maximize her intake as this Harm to calf Exposure to normal social interactions process is done on a 24-hour basis to Figure 16: Chart outlining potential risk versus benefits for social introductions. increase the number of sessions she is offered food. We tend to do this for about 30 days post-parturition unpredictable animal won’t be left with the dam/calf pair overnight until Summary unless the dam is consistently they show signs of complete desensitization. Establishing a paradigm shift to a more proactive approach of being maintaining high diet intakes in our hands-on and collecting baseline data and samples from healthy dolphin operational day. (Figure 15.) Behavioral Benchmark 5: calves will help our field reap more benefits over time. This approach will Interactive Programming allow us to continue to advance the science, care, and handling of all our Behavioral Benchmark DQ is an in-water dolphin interactive facility. Taking guests in the animals and assist them and us in reaching their full potential. 3: Gating Strategies Figure 12: Trainers implementing calm calf collection water occurs daily. In order to promote a return to operation norm, we Our behavioral expectation reintroduce the dam to guest programming with her calf. We start by References for gating is having the pair gate observing the dam and calf interaction in shallow water with the guests. Fish Weight Formula. Retrieved 4 June 2012 from We avoid interference between dam and calf by keeping a comfortable http://themarlinclub.com/fishformula.html prior to, and during, birth with the dam is what allows us to handle our distance. We educate our guests on boundaries should the pair approach calves so successfully post-parturition. To date, we have actively handled us and the program trainer is always ready and willing to step in to train all 17 of our dam and calf pairs since 2003, which has demonstrably if the dam shows interest. Having calves integrated into our everyday reduced trainer and animal anxiety throughout the entire birthing process. norm helps build the foundation for future calf programming. (Figure 17.) (Figures 12, 13, 14.) Behavioral Benchmark 2: Dietary Intake Strategies Behavioral Benchmark 6: Individual Calf Stations Our feeding strategies change to accommodate the swimming patterns At DQ, we implement an independent calf station within the first

Figure 15: Feeding strategy for post-parturition dam and calf, modified to allow dam to continue swimming to manage calf.

by Day 3. We do this before signs of calf independence to allow the dam to facilitate gate training through observational learning. We first build a successful gating history with our dams prior to birth. We then pull a gate completely out of its track and allow the dam and calf to explore an open- gate environment. We reinforce successful gate exploration at that point. Once they seem comfortable with this process, we add a gating stimulus before asking the pair to gate.

Behavioral Benchmark 4: Social Management Figure 17: Guest and trainer in water viewing with newborn calf during portion of interactive programming. Figure 13 (above) We set up an introduction plan for all conspecifics in the environment & 14 (right): based on risk versus benefit. This, for instance, would be a timeline laid out showing what order the other individuals are first introduced, for how Trainers integration of long, and at what time of the day. Risks of introducing other animals to the several months post-parturition. We start by training the calf to station established relationship dam calf pair include: calf stabilization interference, social incompatibility, during parturition next to its dam, with his or her own trainer. We then approximate both and potential harm to calf. We feel however, that most of the time the to assist in relaxed the distance and duration away from dam. This allows us to focus on birthing process. benefits outweigh the risks. Some of the benefits include: enrichment individual calf training, feeding, and development. We incorporate for dam, exposure to new stimulus for calf, and team social acclimation. a hand target and target pole training at this time. We begin to work (Figure 16.) Social introductions at DQ may start as early as 48 hours Figure 18: Development of calf station and training with and on calf stationing in both our deep water and shallow water lagoon without dam present. post-parturition. The DQ position is that at this point, a healthy calf has areas as well as along the dockside. During these sessions, the dam acclimated. Each animal is introduced based on risk versus benefit within is participating in her own training session or even in a program in the the first two weeks of parturition. We ensure these introductions are done same lagoon area. Overall, we look to build the calf’s attention span at times in the day that allow us to build on positive social interactions and with the trainer so their learning for training can grow as an individual. respond if circumstances don’t seem ideal. Initial introductions are just a (Figures 18.) few minutes in duration and we build upon these sessions over time. Any

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