ZSL Living Conservation

ZSL Living conservation

THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2011

6 the Year in review 2011 ZSL Living conservation

Our vision: A world where animals are valued, and their conservation assured Our mission: To promote and achieve the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats

2 the Year in review 2011 introduction

Introduction The President and Director General of the Zoological Society of London look back on the successes, challenges and new developments of 2011.

Conservation in action A year of achievements As human populations prosper and grow, There has been a great deal for us mounting challenges are threatening the to celebrate in 2011. At ZSL London very survival of our planet’s biodiversity. Zoo, the opening of our new flagship From habitat degradation to the exhibit, Penguin Beach, proved an resurgence of the world’s illegal ivory enormous hit with visitors and offered trade and the spread of fatal diseases, an opportunity to inform the public all species groups are enduring worrying losses. about our conservation work in Antarctica. Predictions for the future state of the natural world, should It was also a landmark year for ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, as we human activity continue in the same vein as the present, offer celebrated its 80th anniversary and continued success with little comfort. But while life exists, so does hope. conservation breeding. Exciting births included pygmy hippo Immediate action to counter these threats is required if we are and Asian elephant calves. to forge a new and healthy path for the natural world, and ZSL In the field our conservationists had a busy and triumphant is at the forefront of this action – both at home and overseas. year, from deterring rhino poachers in Nepal to the launch of Pioneering work at our Institute of Zoology is furthering Project Ocean, our creative collaboration with Selfridges & Co the Society’s – and, indeed, the world’s – understanding of the department store. The campaign not only drew attention to issues facing biodiversity, and the solutions we must employ to the plight of the world’s sea life, but enabled the creation of solve them. Using this strong foundation of scientific research, an important new marine reserve in the Philippines. our field conservationists are working successfully in more than Scientists at the Institute of Zoology continued to lead the 50 countries to protect animals and their habitats. way in animal research, from charting the decline of mammals Closer to home, the Society’s two world-leading zoos are in Africa’s national parks to shedding light on a disease that is continuing to act as important hubs for the conservation decimating global amphibian populations. breeding of endangered species, and also as centres of And despite the wider economic downturn, ZSL is delighted inspiration. Every year at ZSL London and Whipsnade Zoos, to report a successful year financially, as well as continued millions of visitors discover more about the beauty of nature generosity from the many donors who make our work possible. and how they can help to preserve it, and a new generation I, too, would like to pay tribute to all the hard work of of conservationists is inspired. our staff and supporters. The commitment and enthusiasm As ever, our achievements this year – at both Zoos, in our they consistently demonstrate help the Society to achieve scientific research, and through our fieldwork – simply could increasingly more, year on year – as you will discover in not have taken place without the tremendous efforts of all our the pages that follow. staff, volunteers and members. Our thanks go out, once again, to you all.

Sir Patrick Bateson FRS Ralph Armond President, Zoological Society of London Director General, Zoological Society of London

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10 4 9 7

Liberia Pygmy hippo Global (See p13)

Reach 8 ZSL ran more than 150 vital field conservation and research projects in more than 50 countries in 2011. This is just a 11 sample of our ongoing work at home and abroad – visit www.zsl.org to find out more.

UK: Garden birds Italy: Democratic Ghana and Dominica: 1 Through its Garden Bird Health 3 Sardinian newt 5 Republic of 7 Cameroon: 9 Amphibians Initiative, ZSL is investigating the Scientists are studying the effects the Congo: Okapi Wildlife Wood ZSL is working to mitigate the threat causes of avian deaths across the UK of the virulent chytrid fungus on ZSL conservationists are Project of infectious diseases in the island’s in order to protect our small birds. the endangered Sardinian mountain investigating the largely unknown This innovative ZSL project amphibians. The mountain chicken The project’s recent focus has been newt. The species appears to be population of these rare mammals is continuing to work with logging frog is being bred in captivity locally, the worrying emergence of the very susceptible to infection, and in the Virunga National Park and companies to encourage them while awareness-raising projects deadly trichomoniasis disease ZSL is working to protect the developing community-based to play an active role in wildlife include introducing school children in European species. remaining individuals. projects to help prevent poaching. conservation in their concessions. to this iconic local resident.

Turkey and Algeria: Namibia: Chile: Mexico: 2 Greece: Fish Net 4 Northwest 6 Tsaobis baboon 8 Darwin’s frog 10 Whales The Fish Net consortium protects African cheetah Our long-term study on desert ZSL sponsors a Chilean EDGE Researchers previously found that critically endangered freshwater This elusive cheetah was first baboons has been underway Fellow to study these unusual whales suffer skin damage from fish through conservation breeding, caught on film in the wild through since 2000 and continues to frogs. In 2011 the team discovered ultraviolet radiation that is similar to education, research and field camera traps set up by ZSL scientists shed light on dining etiquette, a new population in southern acute sunburn in humans. They are conservation. Thirteen focal species, and their partners, who hope to sexual signalling and defensive Chile. Individuals rescued from now investigating whether whales many of them extinct in the wild, are better understand and protect behaviour in these fascinating a volcanic eruption will be can enhance their sun protection, bred at ZSL London Zoo Aquarium. the population. and social animals. used for conservation breeding. for example, via skin pigmentation.

4 the Year in review 2011 World

Nepal Greater one-horned rhino (See p18) 16 14 3 2

15 Thailand Asian 13 12 elephant (See p21)

5 17 Sri Lanka Red Philippines slender Seahorses loris (See p19) 6 (See p20) 19 18

Antarctica: India: Saudi Arabia: Chagos South Africa: 11 Penguins 13 Vultures 15 Gazelles 17 Archipelago 19 Hewitt’s The effects of climate change are Indian vulture populations have Managed by ZSL on behalf of Since it became the largest, fully ghost frog most prominent at the poles, so almost disappeared – a decline ZSL Saudi Arabia’s national Wildlife protected marine area in the world in Conservationists are studying wildlife there can tell us much has linked to drugs contaminating Authority, the King Khalid 2010, thanks in part to ZSL’s scientific these secretive and endangered about its impact. ZSL scientists the cattle carcasses they feed Wildlife Research Centre is work, further research, community amphibians, highlighted by ZSL’s are monitoring penguins using on. With the problem far from breeding endangered gazelle projects and management strategies EDGE of Existence programme, to find high-tech satellite-linked cameras solved, our breeding, research species and reintroducing them have been developed for this out more about the threats they face. and DNA analysis. and monitoring continues. to secure habitats. amazingly rich island ecosystem.

Bangladesh: Russia: Amur Mongolia: New Zealand: 12 Tigers 14 leopards 16 Wildlife 18 Hihi bird ZSL is working with the Wildlife Trust With only 30 of these magnificent Picture Index The island-dwelling hihi is a of Bangladesh and local people to predators believed to remain in the The Wildlife Picture Index, vulnerable species with no close conserve one of the world’s largest wild, reintroducing captive Amur currently on trial, measures species relations in the bird kingdom. remaining tiger populations in the leopards will be vital to increase conservation using advanced Protecting the colonies reintroduced Sundarbans. Measures include a numbers. ZSL is coordinating camera trapping techniques. In 2011 by ZSL could prove challenging, as response team to protect villagers breeding programmes across several new areas were added to the fungal spores were recently found from tiger attacks. Europe and Russia. protected sites under observation. to be a problem for the birds.

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ZSL in the news From helping save the Sumatran tiger to developing a real-life Batphone, ZSL has rarely been out of the headlines in 2011.

 January  FebruarY Out for the count Baby slender lorises and silvery marmosets were among the exciting additions to ZSL’s annual animal stocktake. Under the watchful gaze of the media, keepers at our Zoos braved the cold to count more than 20,000 animals.  Reefs at risk No leftovers A giant delivery  Tiger SOS With the launch of our for T.rex Aquarium staff at ZSL London The Society’s largest-ever EDGE Coral Reefs programme, Research by ZSL’s Institute Zoo were kept especially fundraising campaign, Tiger conservationists at ZSL of Zoology revealed that busy in February with the SOS, was launched to help save revealed which species of Tyrannosaurus rex hunted like unexpected arrival of 800 giant the magnificent Sumatran coral are most at risk. This a lion rather than scavenging clams seized by Customs at tiger. The appeal is raising new project is working with like a hyena. Backed up by Heathrow Airport. The surprise much-needed funds for our in-country scientists to protect an ecological model based guests were all in a day’s work field conservation work with some of the world’s most on predator relationships in for the Aquarium, which has this critically endangered fascinating and unusual species the Serengeti, the findings a long-standing relationship subspecies in the forests of of tropical coral, such as the ended years of debate about with the UK Border Agency Indonesia, as well as a state- critically endangered elkhorn the hunting behaviour of and often helps care for and of-the-art new tiger exhibit coral, above. this amazing creature. rehome confiscated wildlife. at ZSL London Zoo.

6 the Year in review 2011 Highlights

 March  May Up close with adders Britain’s only venomous snake, the adder, is receiving the first vital health checks from experts after its worrying population decline in recent years. A team of intrepid scientists headed into the undergrowth to carry out harmless DNA swab tests that will help determine the level of genetic diversity in the adder population.  April Royal approval It was the wedding of the year – and ZSL was delighted to be chosen by Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge as one of the beneficiaries of their wedding charitable gift fund. This funding will help support our field  Penguin Beach launches conservation work with black Making a mighty splash with visitors and media alike, the launch of ZSL London Zoo’s latest flagship rhinos, Asian elephants and exhibit, Penguin Beach, was a tremendous success. With more than 60 rockhopper and Humboldt Sumatran tigers. penguins, England’s largest penguin pool even features a crèche for newly hatched chicks.

 Smuggled  Whipsnade at 80 cheetahs rescued ZSL Whipsnade Zoo Three adult cheetahs were commemorated its 80th successfully released back anniversary in style. Since into the wild after being opening in 1931 as Europe’s confiscated from an illegal first open zoo, Whipsnade has wildlife trader in Tanzania.  Fish meets fashion led the way as a conservation Conservationists from ZSL Department store Selfridges teamed up with ZSL to launch and breeding centre. Its famous and partner organisations Project Ocean, a unique and urgently needed initiative to help white chalk lion was spruced worked to secure their swift protect the world’s sea life. Within three months of launching, up in honour of the occasion, release into the Tarangire the project had raised more than £100,000 for ZSL’s marine with fresh chalk cleared to National Park, complete conservation work, and made serious headway in encouraging ensure the landmark can be with radio tracking collars. people to eat more sustainably sourced fish. enjoyed from afar.

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 June  Wild summer nights The real Batphone Silent discos, animal talks and Scientists at ZSL brought the after-work merriment were the Batphone to life with the launch order of the evening at our of a clever new smartphone app. Zoo Lates every Friday in June As part of a global bat monitoring and July. More than 60,000 programme, volunteer bat-trackers tickets were sold for this can now capture the mammals’ popular event, proving once ultrasonic calls using the again that, for a roaring night innovative iBats app.  July out in the capital, ZSL London Zoo is the place to be.  Soapbox science Scientists hit the streets of London as part of ZSL’s annual Soapbox Science event. Setting out to enthuse the public about the role of science, 12 prominent scientists gave inspiring talks on subjects from ‘our knowledge of the universe’ to ‘how plants make decisions’.

8 the Year in review 2011 Highlights

 August  October Zoo Academy Aspiring vets and zookeepers got a practical taste of their future careers by taking part in the first ZSL Zoo Academy. Designed for 15 to 17-year- olds, the exciting zoo-based courses at London and Whipsnade offered students practical and theoretical studies on species from elephants to emus.

 September Fun for everyone Special Children’s Day returned to ZSL London Zoo, bigger and better than ever! Organised specifically for families of children with disabilities and special needs, the weekend-long event  Record breaker helped make the wonders An Asian elephant calf born at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo set a new record for the Zoo’s longest recorded of the animal kingdom pregnancy, following a whopping 700-day gestation period. Born to experienced mother Azizah, accessible to all. the exuberant male was also the smallest elephant baby ever at ZSL.

 November  December  Instant WILD  season to be jolly The launch of a unique iPhone Festive spirit was embraced app is helping to revolutionise at ZSL’s Zoos with the help of the way ZSL monitors wildlife Father Christmas and his little hotspots around the world. helpers. In specially created The Instant Wild app allows grottos, children enjoyed willing ‘citizen scientists’ to seasonal treats and the chance help identify species that to get close to the season’s appear in camera-trap images, hardest-working delivery saving conservationists an service – Santa’s very own enormous amount of time. herd of reindeer.  Frogs v fungus ZSL discovered that the global trade in frogs, toads and other amphibians may have contributed to a worldwide disease. Exchanging non- lethal strains of the chytrid fungus appears to have created a new, deadly variety, thought to have made more than 200 species of amphibian extinct.

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The Living Collections New life, new arrivals and new exhibitions are all helping ZSL Zoos retain their leading edge – but not without some tough decisions along the way.

The overwhelming success of 2011 was the from the complexities of gorilla society opening of Penguin Beach, an exhibit that and the guidance of a silverback male, encapsulates the essence of a modern zoo. New for 2011 he would have remained socially Dramatic views of these amazing birds, From beetles to elephants, excluded for the rest of his life. coupled with interactive interpretation here are some of the exciting Sometimes, however, hand-rearing can and the expansion of our ever-popular newcomers at both Zoos. work. The integration of our hand-reared penguin feeding, have resulted in white-naped mangabey into a new group BIRTHS resounding approval ratings from visitors. Lynx, moose, Asian elephant, at Zoo Landau is particularly pleasing, Meanwhile, the successful breeding Hercules beetles, Turkish killifish, and we may be able to transfer some of of animals at our Zoos continues to Rodrigues fruit bats, Asian lions, the techniques used here to other species. reflect much investment, research and Humboldt penguins, Francois’ The welfare of the animals in our patience. Highlights of 2011 included the langur monkey, naked mole rats. care is our priority. Proactive welfare births of pygmy and common hippos, audits and an ongoing improvement François’ langur monkeys and Mount ARRIVALS programme ensured that both Zoos Apo lorikeets, and excellent results for all Reindeer, golden mantella frogs, continued to raise standards of care. our invertebrate breeding programmes, freshwater stingrays, Partula For example, at ZSL London Zoo’s including rare Bermudian and Partula mooreana snails, Persian onager, Aquarium, environmental regulation of land snails. Another highlight has reticulated giraffes, crested temperate water systems was a major been our success with the slender loris. screamer birds, Bactrian issue until this was converted Alongside our main loris group, a camels, white-winged ZSL to a warm water system, secondary group was established with ducks, Grévy’s zebras. London Zoo giving us greater control an older male, and both groups have won Best UK Attraction of the aquatic habitats produced and reared youngsters. With for Children in the 2011 on display. Featuring 11 of these enigmatic primates in the hyacinthine macaw, Group Leisure Awards, freshwater species from collection, ZSL London Zoo now has the at ZSL London seeing off tough competition around the globe, these largest captive population in the world. Zoo this year adult from the likes of Alton exhibits have also had Through the European Endangered macaws were left Towers and Legoland huge visitor appeal. Species Programme, young lorises are to rear their own chick, Windsor After continued being transferred to other zoos, making sure that it too investment in our amphibian including Antwerp and Frankfurt. learns how to become a and reptile facilities, ZSL now Hand-rearing an animal is fraught with successful parent. has one of the finest collections of complications, and the consequences on The decision not to hand-rear our venomous snakes in Europe. As well an individual’s long-term welfare must male gorilla infant was particularly as fulfilling exhibition and education outweigh all other considerations. So difficult, especially as he subsequently roles, these species will also be the while other zoos might choose to hand- died at seven months after a scuffle focus of conservation breeding rear a highly endangered species like the in the group. But he had grown up away and research initiatives.

10 the Year in review 2011 zoos

‘The overwhelming success of 2011 was the opening of Penguin Beach, an exhibit that encapsulates the essence of a modern zoo’

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FocUs on Adrian Walls, Head keeper of Birds, ZSL London Zoo Since arriving at ZSL London Zoo as a senior keeper almost a decade ago, Adrian Walls has risen through the ranks to become head keeper of the bird section and co-chair of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Bird Working Group. With a passion for all things avian, Adrian has earned the reputation of being a bird-breeder extraordinaire. But it is the creation of Penguin Beach (pictured above) that he counts as one of his greatest achievements. From day one of the planning process, Adrian and his team worked closely with builders and architects to create a world- class exhibit and the best possible penguin environment – from installing the right water filters to importing the preferred pebbles and sand for each species. Within a week of the penguins arriving from collections across Europe, eggs were already being laid; a tremendous achievement that reflects just how quickly the new residents have settled in. Having worked with these much-loved birds since he was 16, Adrian says they can always bring a smile to his face.

Penguin power featured in London Underground stations, plot the movement of colonies, helping England’s largest penguin pool, Penguin captured the imaginations of the public, decipher how best to protect them from Beach, opened to the public at ZSL London while the press launch generated national the effects of climate change. Zoo in May 2011, and showed just how and international media coverage that popular these characterful birds have would have cost an estimated £800,000 Greener zoos become. More than 300,000 visitors came to buy – an impressive return on At both Zoos, tree work continued to be to see the 64 Humboldt and rockhopper investment of £1,000 per £1 spent. a priority for our horticulture teams. It is penguins in the first two months of Penguin Beach was also an opportunity essential that ZSL’s thousands of trees are opening. With 49% citing it as their to realise ZSL’s long-term aim of linking kept in good condition – not only for the primary reason for visiting the Zoo, exhibits to the vital work being carried out trees themselves, but also for the safety the pool has proved to be a smash hit. by our scientists and conservationists. In of visitors and animals. Extra areas at The launch was also an undisputed this case, ZSL penguinologist Tom Hart, ZSL London Zoo were secured for native success in terms of public relations. An whose research in Antarctica involves using planting and to provide browse for animals. extensive advertising campaign, which DNA samples from penguin feathers to Four thousand saplings were planted

12 the Year in review 2011 zoos

to establish a mix of trees, hedges and shrubberies, as well as coppice for browse. Horticulture teams also did their bit to maintain and increase biodiversity. At ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, the construction of two log piles on the downs, using wood left over from pollarding work, not only provides an ideal habitat for insect life but also offers shelter to free-roaming wallabies, maras and deer. There was also positive news about Whipsnade’s Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). In June, an encouraging inspection by Natural England concluded that this chalk grassland site was continuing to recover from its former state of decline.

Rhino breeding An assortment of supersized scanners, probes and other paraphernalia were the order of the day when a female southern white rhino was artificially inseminated at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo. In South Africa, once a stronghold for this species, The magisterial Sumatran tiger, Lumpur – in a limited edition print (below), and in the flesh (above). Below right: Lola the common hippo keeping a watchful eye on her calf, Hula hundreds of rhinos have been poached for their horns, so maintaining a healthy population in captivity is crucial. And with few southern white rhinos in zoos, every birth is extremely important. However, for Whipsnade female Nowana, a foot injury meant natural conception was not feasible. Instead, ZSL’s team drafted in experts from the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, in Germany, to give nature a helping hand. All After obtaining sperm species of from a male rhino owl housed on ZSL at Whipsnade, the London Zoo’s north bank artificial insemination bred successfully in 2011, took place under including white-faced scops, sedation. Since then, spectacled and burrowing of common hippo a poster boy for ZSL’s fieldwork in Liberia, Nowana’s hormones owls, and the northern Hula was a cause for and near his enclosure visitors can find out have been monitored, hawk owl celebration, male pygmy more about the Society’s efforts to protect and ZSL was delighted to hippo calf Sapo was of this elusive and endangered mammal. discover at the end of 2011 that particular significance. Not only she is now pregnant. This shows how is Sapo the first successful offspring TIger SOS important it is for European zoos to work of parents Flora and Tapon, but he is Last year also saw the launch of ZSL’s together to achieve success. one of just three male pygmy hippos to largest-ever fundraising campaign, Tiger have been born in Europe in the past five SOS. As the Society is active in both wild Hippo newborns years. Although no one is sure why, only Sumatran tiger conservation and zoo The ever-fertile ZSL Whipsnade Zoo 20% of pygmy hippos born in zoos are breeding programmes, we have used our continued to deliver, in every sense, male, making little Sapo an important unique position to expand our role in with the births of pygmy and common individual for the overall zoo population. their future protection. Tiger SOS is raising hippo calves last year. While the birth The adorable youngster has also become funds for a new Tiger Territory enclosure,

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 In detail: Sustainable success 2010-2011

Reduction in CO2 emissions (KG) Reduction in Costs Electricity Electricity Electricity Gas Electricity Electricity Electricity Gas total London Whipsnade total total London Whipsnade total 0 0 -3.11 % 50,000 -3.38 £25,000 100,000 %

-7.93 -17.30 150,000 £50,000 % % -12.51 % 200,000

£75,000 250,000 -6.38 % -13.34 300,000 % -10.86 £100,000 % 350,000

400,000 £125,000 ZSL London Zoo was delighted shop extension was completed with the The use of sustainable palm oil to to be awarded a gold standard use of natural and sustainable materials. combat deforestation also remained Green Tourism Award in At ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, new insulation high on our agenda. Both Zoos 2011 for its efforts to reduce in the Discovery Centre halved the amount completed a thorough review of energy and water consumption. Shop of heating diesel used compared to the their procurement policies to ensure refurbishments at the Zoo provided an previous year. In the 2010-11 financial year, that, wherever possible, only sustainable opportunity to introduce energy-efficient both Zoos made huge steps in reducing palm oil products are used and sold lighting and heating systems, while a new their carbon emissions (see chart, above). throughout ZSL. in London as well as for our field In the field A jumbo celebration conservation projects in Indonesia. Staff from ZSL’s Living Collections Celebrating all things jumbo, ZSL The ambitious project included a continued to contribute to the Society’s Whipsnade Zoo hosted Elephant number of exciting new initiatives and global conservation work. One highlight Appreciation Day in September to raise generated huge press interest. Woop was chief veterinary officer Andrew Routh’s money for its elephant conservation Studios designed a limited-edition print continued involvement with ZSL’s vulture projects. For the first time, keepers based on our male tiger Lumpur, with half conservation programmes. During 2011 proudly exhibited paintings by a talented the proceeds going to the campaign, while Andrew not only provided vital veterinary artist: Karishma, the Asian elephant. The we have created a paw-print trail around expertise but also represented the Society handiwork of the pachyderm Picasso the Tiger Territory. Those who donate £400 at the launch of an important new vulture was on display for art-lovers to admire or more to the campaign will be named consortium, Saving Asia’s Vultures from throughout the weekend. Elephant on a paw print, giving them an enduring Extinction (SAVE), in India and Nepal. Appreciation Day visitors could also enjoy reminder of their commitment to these Meanwhile, Aquarium curator a special ‘Elephantastic’ demonstration, remarkable animals. The campaign raised Brian Zimmerman swapped London have their faces painted as elephants, and an impressive £1.14m in 2011. for the east of Liberia for a month-long join the Zoo’s herd of heavyweights on Meanwhile, tiger keeper Teague expedition to the Putu Mountains. their daily stroll around the 600-acre site. Stubbington was awarded the annual There, Brian and his team undertook Michael Brambell travel grant to visit an extensive freshwater fish biodiversity Poisoners welcome our field conservation team in Indonesia. assessment, which has proven hugely ZSL London Zoo has always had plenty of His experiences there are now being used rewarding. Not only will their survey venomous snakes, but in 2011 its collection by ZSL to shape the development of Tiger work hopefully secure a lasting expanded to become the biggest in Europe. Territory, helping ensure an authentic conservation plan for the area, but it is Having completely refurbished its off-show experience for visitors while remaining likely that at least two new species will facilities (and, of course, stocked up on all true to the integrity of the fieldwork. be scientifically described as a result. the right antivenoms), the Zoo was ready

14 the Year in review 2011 zoos

Reduction in Costs for its new arrivals, including the inland taipan, the bushmaster, the McGregor’s and rhinoceros vipers, and the Mangshan pitviper. Another important addition is the European adder, which ZSL experts are working to protect in the wild following its recent decline. It is important to draw attention to this iconic native of the British countryside. Alongside this collection of snakes, the Reptile House is becoming one of the world’s top destinations to admire other wonders of natural toxicity, with Gila monsters and beaded lizards as well as the beautiful but deadly poison dart frog, Above left: Andrew Routh’s vulture work. Above right: Brian Zimmerman (left) in the Putu the most toxic animal on the planet. Mountains. Below (top): Kristen Steele’s project on the European eel. Below: Mangshan pitviper Corals on show As part of our Project Ocean campaign with Selfridges & Co, the store’s Ultralounge space was converted into a beautiful live coral exhibition in June and July with the help of the ZSL London Zoo Aquarium. Planned, installed, maintained and dismantled by our team, the exhibit was the first of its kind to showcase living corals as individual species, rather than as part of a reef community. To best show off the corals’ shapes, colours and movements, each species was displayed on a range of dramatically lit jewellery plinths and mini-stages, with stunning results.

Graduate news Only Graduates of our Masters sustainable courses in Wild Animal species of fish are Biology and Wild Animal now being used by ZSL also tackled important Health continue to progress animal and catering conservation and welfare both their careers and departments issues. Kristen Steele from conservation around the the USA gained the highest world. Alumni include Dr aggregate marks on the Wild Norman Mukarati, now Lecturer Animal Biology course, as well as in Wildlife and Exotic Medicine at the the award for the best piece of research. University of Zimbabwe, and Fernando Her project, ‘A study of ecological Gual Sill, who holds professorships at correlates of European eel (Anguilla the National Autonomous University of anguilla H) populations in five marshes Mexico (UNAM) and the Metropolitan of the Thames Estuary’, shed light on Autonomous University – Xochimilco, possible factors in the distribution of this and is UNAM’s California Condor Project endangered species. On the Wild Animal leader. Dr Wigganson Matandiko is head of Health MSc, Mhairi Fleming came out the Zambia Wildlife Authority’s veterinary on top, also winning the prize for best unit, while Dr Ian Smith has become research project: ‘Behavioural assessment senior veterinarian at Zoos South Australia. of dental pain in Malayan sun bears Meanwhile, 24 of the latest students (Helarctos malayanus)’. Her work identified graduated in 2011. Their research projects telltale pain markers that could be used to were not only of a high standard, but intervene earlier when bears are suffering.

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16 the Year in review 2011 Conservation

Field conservation Through its work with animals and habitats all around the world, ZSL is positioned to play a crucial role in protecting future biodiversity.

Three major challenges must be potential of a market-based approach decline of some of the world’s most addressed if we are to halt the decline to reducing deforestation, such as threatened wildlife, launching EDGE of species and ecosystems on a global creating sustainable local incentives Coral Reefs in 2011 and supporting scale. The first is to demonstrate beyond for conservation. There is also much to in-country conservationists working any doubt the negative impact that be learned from our coastal rehabilitation with such little-known species as the people are having on biodiversity, and project in the Philippines, where 100 Sunda pangolin in Vietnam, the olm make clear the risks to humanity and hectares of mangrove forest have in Croatia and the Victoria caecilian all life. The second is to ensure that been restored. in Cameroon. society is presented with reasonable, Meanwhile, we are working with the To influence the way society values sustainable alternatives and evidence- influential Marine Reserve Coalition to nature, ZSL has an important role to play based solutions. The third is to influence society’s relationship with nature so that the true value of biodiversity is ‘In 2011, we helped assess the recognised in everything we do, from political decision-making to conservation status of more than global investment. 3,500 species for the IUCN Red List, As one of the world’s strongest science-based conservation organisations, monitored trends in more than 2,500 ZSL is uniquely placed to help with these challenges. In 2011, we helped vertebrate species, and assisted with assess the conservation status of more than 3,500 species for the International national Red Lists in Nepal and Mongolia’ Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, monitored trends in promote the implementation of in engaging the public. With two Zoos, more than 2,500 vertebrate species, Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), and an extensive online and media presence, and assisted with national Red Lists have recently created a new MPA in and numerous scientific talks and in Nepal and Mongolia. the Philippines as part of our Project symposia, ZSL brings its environmental With conservation projects in more Ocean collaboration with Selfridges message to millions of people each than 50 countries, ZSL is also well & Co. We also run several tiger year. We also train hundreds of future placed to seek solutions and help build projects focusing on these predators’ conservation leaders through our Masters evidence of what works and what does last strongholds. Last year our locally programmes, PhD studentships, post- not. Many projects running in 2011 trained tiger response teams in doctorates and field training courses. have the potential to deliver major Bangladesh prevented several Through all these efforts, ZSL aims conservation benefits if scaled up, such animals being killed. to make a significant contribution to as our reforestation initiative in Berbak, Finally, our EDGE of Existence halting the loss of the world’s species Indonesia. Here, we are assessing the programme continues to reverse the and ecosystems.

the Year in review 2011 17 ZSL Living conservation

FocUs on prof Dr Heather Koldewey, Head of Global Programmes

When she joined ZSL as a research associate in 1994, Heather had no idea that she would one day receive its highest employee honour, the ZSL Staff Medal, for outstanding achievement in the service of the Society. After two years at our Institute of Zoology, Heather was appointed curator of ZSL London Zoo’s Aquarium and Reptile House. Her interest in the Saving rhinos With losses like these, and with practical application of conservation Between 2000 and 2007, Nepal lost three of the world’s five rhino species science – integrating aquatic breeding more than a third of its greater one- classified as Critically Endangered on programmes with active field projects horned rhino population to poachers. the IUCN Red List, conservation efforts – helped establish the Aquarium’s At this critical time, ZSL responded to are more important than ever. Sadly, global reputation. Now head of an appeal for support from its long- 2011 also brought official confirmation global conservation, she shares her term conservation partner in Nepal of the extinction of two subspecies, the expertise with many national and with a three-year programme funded by Vietnamese lesser one-horned rhino and international groups. the UK government, Crisis to Biological the western black rhino. Yet the latest Heather is especially proud to have Management: rhinoceros, grassland and news from Nepal demonstrates how co-founded the hugely successful public engagement. It is a testament to all well-managed, targeted action can Project Seahorse. The initiative has the hard work by our partners that, for contribute to the survival of a species. championed the conservation of these the first time in more than a quarter of a remarkable creatures, gaining them century, not a single rhino was poached Project Ocean special protection under the Convention in the past year. In the past three years, Launched last May, Project Ocean is an on International Trade in Endangered rhino numbers have increased by an ambitious collaboration between ZSL and Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. estimated 7%. This achievement is the department store Selfridges & Co. The Heather’s team provided the scientific even more remarkable given that in initiative has two primary goals in the fight work that led to the Chagos Archipelago Africa more than 500 rhinos were lost against over-exploitation of our oceans. being designated the world’s largest to poachers in 2011, with losses in South The first is to increase public awareness of marine reserve, and she also played Africa alone reaching a record 448 (more the plight of commercial fish stocks, and a key role in 2011’s flagship initiative than half of which were killed inside the encourage sustainable fish consumption. Project Ocean. Kruger National Park). The second is to raise funds for the

18 the Year in review 2011 Conservation

Left: greater one-horned rhinos. Above: Selfridges joining Project Ocean to raise awareness of fish stocks. Below left: Prince Charles at the project’s launch. Below right: studying seahorses

development of new Marine Protected unique and endangered species for the Chagos Archipelago in the British Areas in valuable but highly threatened five years now, and in January 2011 it Indian Ocean Territory, the world’s marine ecosystems across the globe. extended its focus to a new group: corals. largest marine reserve. The public campaign ran online and The EDGE Coral Reefs project has created in Selfridges’ flagship London store a list of the ten most evolutionarily Saving Sumatran tigers throughout June and July 2011. Reaching distinctive and globally threatened reef In 2011, ZSL’s Tiger SOS project gave a millions of people, it was supported by inhabitants. These include the pearl bubble boost to our vital conservation work high-profile figures such as the Prince of coral – a favourite food of hawksbill turtles with the critically endangered Sumatran Wales and celebrity chef Hugh Fearnley- – and the mushroom coral, which supports tiger. The Society is collaborating with Whittingstall. The results speak for many colourful shrimp species, including local organisations, communities themselves: Project Ocean has raised more the popcorn shrimp, that live within and the government to find workable than £120,000 so far, enabling ZSL’s Project its tentacles. EDGE Coral Reefs is now solutions to the threats facing the tiny Seahorse to create a new ‘Selfridges MPA’ supporting conservation work in regions population of Sumatran tigers before it is in a rare double-barrier coral reef in the where these priority species can still be too late. Measures will include increasing Philippines. This community-managed found, training a network of in-country anti-poaching patrols in Sumatra’s area on the Danajon Bank covers 0.5km2, scientists and developing community- Berbak National Park, developing a and will offer protection from overfishing based management schemes for protected new REDD (Reducing Emissions from to the reef’s vast array of species, which areas and reef resources. In July, the first Deforestation and Forest Degradation) include seahorses and angelfish. EDGE Coral Reefs field course took place carbon trading initiative to provide in Indonesia, equipping up-and-coming sustainable funding for forest protection, Corals on the EDGE conservationists with vital research, and creating a tiger-friendly landscape ZSL’s EDGE of Existence programme has monitoring and reef management skills. by maintaining wildlife corridors to been working to highlight and protect Another of the project’s priority areas is connect their remaining areas of habitat.

the Year in review 2011 19 ZSL Living conservation

Clockwise from above: a Philippines reforestation project; a rescued cheetah back in the wilds of Tarangire National Park; astounding camera-trap night images from the Instant Wild app

Replanting forests it was rediscovered two years ago by the animals’ speedy release. After being fitted Two exciting ZSL reforestation projects research team. The Society is working with radio collars, the cheetahs were sent were underway in the Philippines and Sri with local authorities and communities to Tarangire National Park, and a team in Lanka in 2011. The Society’s mangrove to replant 100 hectares of scrubland with Arusha is tracking their progress as they rehabilitation project in the Philippines native seedlings and create vital ecological settle into their new home. continued to manage projects in six corridors between remaining patches of communities, restoring more than forest. This should benefit not only the 80 Caught on film 100 hectares of abandoned fish ponds or so remaining lorises in the region, but ZSL’s Instant Wild app is a new tool to help to ecologically valuable mangrove forest. also other declining native species such as conservationists monitor remote wildlife This involved planting tens of thousands leopards and the Sri Lankan spiny mouse. hotspots all over the planet. The app sends of mangrove seedlings, which are nurtured live images from camera trap feeds to in locally run nurseries, as well as working New home for cheetahs iPhones and computers, and asks ‘citizen with community members, academics, the The Society’s wide-ranging cheetah and scientists’ to help identify the animals government and non-government agencies wild dog conservation planning initiative snapped in the photographs. to promote mangrove conservation and came to the rescue of three adult cheetahs Since its launch in November 2011, teach vital skills. being held in captivity by a Tanzanian camera feeds from Sri Lanka, Mongolia, Far from the coastal forests of the wildlife trader in April 2011. Two females Kenya and the UK have already acquired Philippines are the central highlands of and a male were being kept in cramped avid followings, with each new image Sri Lanka, where ZSL’s EDGE of Existence cages in a house in Arusha, the safari receiving hundreds of identifications and programme launched a new reforestation capital of Tanzania. Conservationists comments. The tool could save researchers campaign in June to protect the Horton from ZSL and other non-government vast amounts of time in sorting and Plains slender loris. This virtually unknown organisations worked with the Tanzania logging camera-trap data, allowing them creature was believed to be extinct until Wildlife Research Institute to secure the to stretch their limited resources further

20 the Year in review 2011 Conservation

Above: Belinda Stewart-Cox receiving her OBE. Below: a camp abandoned by tiger poachers

when monitoring scarce species. It also engages the public with ZSL’s conservation  In detail: New discoveries efforts, enabling them to get directly involved with our animal projects around the globe.

Royal recognition Conservationist Belinda Stewart-Cox, who works closely with ZSL on its projects with Asian elephants, was awarded an OBE in the 2011 Queen’s Automatically triggered camera traps in In February, a clouded leopard was filmed Birthday Honours for her services the Boni-Dodori region of western Kenya for the first time in Indonesia by ZSL to conservation. A founder of the have already revealed many surprising conservationists in Berbak National Park on Elephant Conservation Network (ECN), facts about this little-studied coastal Sumatra’s eastern coast. This elusive cat was the Society’s partner organisation in ecosystem. Last year the cameras again only recently reclassified as the Sundaland Thailand, Belinda has spent the past demonstrated the surprising biodiversity clouded leopard (Neofelis diardi), a species 25 years working to protect wildlife in of Boni-Dodori by revealing a previously distinct from its nearest living relations, the the country. With humans and wild unknown population of the critically mainland Asia clouded leopard (Neofelis elephants living in closer proximity due endangered Aders’ duiker. These small nebulosa). ZSL’s survey work in this region to loss of habitat, ZSL and the ECN are relatives of the grazing antelope were has further highlighted the need to protect working with local communities to tackle the most frequently photographed one of Sumatra and Borneo’s most beautiful the ensuing human-elephant conflicts species in the survey, which captured cats, with only a few thousand estimated to that are threatening lives and livelihoods. nearly 63,000 images overall. remain in the wild.

the Year in review 2011 21 ZSL Living conservation

Conservation Science ZSL’s Institute of Zoology delivers world-class research and education as part of its overarching mission to further the conservation of animals and their habitats.

TheZSL Institute of Zoology (IoZ) is inprimarily Behavioural and population ecology diversity and structure affect individual funded by the Higher Education research sets out to further understand fitness and the survival of the wider Funding Council for England, with extra wild species and the human populations population, so we can manage animal contributions from other UK research that interact with them, informing populations more effectively. 2011 research councilsthe and charities. Recently, news IoZ was conservation policy and management. A focused on hybridisation between three involved in the campaign to persuade recent study has looked at cooperation in species of gadfly petrel on Round Island Parliament to freeze the science budget in the mating strategies of mammal and bird in Mauritius, the effects of inbreeding in its Comprehensive Spending Review. Our species. In groups of pied babbler birds, endangered birds, and developing genetic evidence helped demonstrate the value a dominant pair monopolise breeding, marker techniques to estimate relatedness. of effective scientific research, and IoZ helped by offspring from previous years, was one of the few government-funded who do not get to breed themselves or Wildlife epidemiology research organisations to escape cuts in 2011. inherit their parents’ territory. Instead, they investigates diseases that threaten wildlife, Led by its senior Research Fellows, the seem to use ‘home’ as a haven from which including emerging threats (see ‘In Detail’ Institute’s scientific research programmes to seek nearby breeding opportunities. case study overleaf). Understanding what cover five key areas: In contrast, dominant individuals in consequences these might have – on both cooperative mammal groups, such as wildlife health epidemiology and human Biodiversity and macroecology research meerkats, were less able to prevent welfare – is especially important when aims to describe the patterns of diversity in the biology, ecology and distribution of animal species and their habitats at ‘Our evidence helped demonstrate the regional and global scales. Last year we value of effective scientific research, and used data going back over 30 years to investigate large mammal populations IoZ was one of the few government-funded in Africa’s national parks, showing that these have decreased by an average organisations to escape cuts in 2011’ of 59% between 1970 and 2005, with the most severe declines in the west. their social subordinates from breeding. these changes are driven by our own Elsewhere, we looked at the effects of This difference between mammals and influence on the natural world. unequal adult sex ratios in a reintroduced birds is partly due to their reproductive population of the hihi bird. Although physiologies: birds lay eggs in nest sites, Reproductive biology research explores breeding females experienced more whereas mammals gestate internally. the bewildering diversity in reproductive harassment in the male-dominated adaptations, and aims to use this group, the good news was that this Genetic variation, fitness and adaptability knowledge to develop applied technologies. seemed to have little or no effect on research describes patterns of relatedness We are also investigating the possible adult female survival or the number among individuals, populations and effects of environmental change on of fledglings produced. species. We are investigating how genetic reproductive and developmental processes.

22 the Year in review 2011 Science ZSL Living conservation

Measuring biodiversity International environmental agreements such as the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) have set stringent goals for conserving biodiversity. But to understand the way to achieve these goals and how we are progressing towards them we need scientifically robust indicators of global biodiversity status and trends. The Indicators and Assessments Unit was set up in 2006 for precisely this purpose, and comprises around 20 staff, students and interns. This year, its work has expanded to build a new understanding of wildlife population and range dynamics, and develop new techniques for monitoring species. Many of our projects will provide the science to inform global biodiversity policy for CBD 2020.

Communicating science In 2011, the institute was involved in two major public science communication events. A team from IoZ and the University of Cambridge, led by Andrew Further Cunningham, showcased important work details of on the spread of diseases in the exhibit ZSL’s activities Bats and Bugs: Balancing Conservation and can be found in our Public Health at the Royal Society’s Summer report Science for Science Exhibition. Many bat species carry trickery and tuning’, by Conservation 2010- uphold its reputation as pathogens that can cause serious diseases in Nick Davies, published 2011 at www.zsl. an invaluable resource for livestock and humans. The exhibit featured in May. Influential works org/science researchers, animal managers research on the risks for human infection from pioneering explorers and anyone with an interest and the measures that can be taken while and zoologists, including Huxley in wildlife conservation. Focusing also protecting bats from persecution. himself as well as Richard Owen, Alfred on research in zoos, the volume deals Meanwhile, Soapbox Science, organised Russel Wallace and John Gould, can be with the rapidly expanding opportunities by IoZ researchers Nathalie Pettorelli and viewed from the journal homepage in to carry out zoo and aquarium-based Seirian Sumner, and the L’Oréal-UNESCO volumes of Proceedings of the Zoological research, arguing that the urgency of the For Women in Science Programme, Society of London and Transactions of the conservation challenge means these should took place on the South Bank, London. Zoological Society of London. The Journal’s be used much more widely than they are Featuring 12 women who have made podcasts can be heard at www.wiley.com/ at present. Articles looked at some of the major contributions to UK science, it bw/podcast/jzo.asp. latest conservation research done with aimed to raise awareness of the issues animals in zoological collections. facing female scientists and encourage Animal Conservation more young women to consider careers This is our forum for the rapid publication Conservation Science and Practice in the field. of research into the conservation of Each book in the Wiley-Blackwell/ZSL animal species and habitats. Papers and Conservation Science and Practice series aims Our publications commentaries are published in each issue. to address the multidisciplinary aspects of Journal of Zoology Two virtual issues were also produced in conservation, looking at how biological Our monthly Journal presents theory- 2011: Conservation Conflicts and Marine scientists and ecologists are interacting driven studies of animals and their Mammal Conservation. with social scientists to effect long-term, systems. The year’s Thomas Henry sustainable conservation measures. Huxley Review, celebrating the evolution International Zoo Yearbook Recent titles include Urban Biodiversity champion’s outstanding contribution Published in 2011, Volume 45 of the and Design and Trade-offs in Conservation: to science, was ‘Cuckoo adaptations: International Zoo Yearbook continues to deciding what to save.

24 the Year in review 2011 Science

Science

Left: Andrew Cunningham’s Bats and Bugs: Balancing Conservation and Public Health team. Above: 2011 publications from the IoZ. Below: our work helps shed light on wildlife population dynamics

Science and  In detail: Fighting fungal diseases conservation events Symposia ZSL’s two-day symposia allow international experts to discuss important topics in conservation science, giving them an opportunity to exchange ideas on best practice and communicate their own research. A symposium on Marine Protected Areas on the high seas in February assessed our progress towards establishing new areas of protection as well as the barriers we have encountered, particularly in regions outside the reaches of national jurisdiction. Key scientists, policymakers, NGOs and private-sector representatives attended An important study by IoZ scientists that the third type, BdGPL, is our May symposium, Sustainable palm oil looked at the evolution of the hypervirulent, causing devastating challenges, a common vision and the way fungal infection Batrachochytrium disease outbreaks in North and forward. This aimed to develop a common dendrobatidis (Bd), a form of chytrid Central America, the Caribbean, environmental and socioeconomic vision fungus that is causing amphibian Australia and Europe, and may have for sustainable palm oil production, and biodiversity loss worldwide. developed as a result of renewed stimulate stakeholders into taking action. The researchers discovered three contact between previously genetically Finally, Antelope conservation in the distinct forms of Bd in amphibians. isolated populations of the fungus. 21st century: from diagnosis to action was Two are known to have been Its spread is having catastrophic held in November. International experts introduced as a result of the consequences for amphibian species discussed trends in global antelope amphibian trade. We showed across the globe.

the Year in review 2011 25 ZSL Living conservation

FocUs on Dr Nichola Raihani, postdoctoral research fellow

Dr Nichola Raihani began work at the Institute of Zoology as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in July 2008, having completed her PhD A major at the University of Cambridge. part of IoZ’s Nichola’s research focuses on the work is to promote evolution of cooperation in nature. the communication She studies a diverse range of species – of science between from the cleaner wrasse fish, pied biodiversity in order to researchers, zoologists The Stamford Raffles babbler birds in the Kalahari desert understand the major and the public Lecture In 2011 our and Damaraland mole rats to threats and conservation prestigious Stamford Raffles humans – to find out what makes priorities, considering both Lecture was given by Armand individuals cooperate and behave biological and socioeconomic Marie Leroi, Professor of Evolutionary unselfishly in situations where they factors. Focusing on antelopes provides Developmental Biology at Imperial may otherwise be tempted to exploit a case study through which we can gain College, London. His lecture, Possible one another. more general insight into conservation creatures: an evolutionary vision, explored Nichola’s research also examines the threats and how to mitigate them. how evolutionary theory allows us to ecological causes and evolutionary explain the design that creatures show, consequences of individual variation Public lectures Held monthly throughout and described how it might be possible in cooperative behaviour. the academic year, ZSL’s Communicating to compute all possible creatures – and In 2011, Nichola was awarded a Science and Wildlife Conservation public perhaps even predict the future of life. prestigious Royal Society University lecture series remains as popular as ever. Research Fellowship at University Each free lecture provides an opportunity Our scientific awards College London (UCL) to research the for zoologists, conservation practitioners, ZSL recognises outstanding achievements mechanisms, such as punishment and policymakers and the public to discuss in conservation and zoological research partner choice, that sustain cooperation the latest developments in conservation through its annual awards and prizes. between individuals. and zoological research. This year’s These reward all levels of achievement, The project will also explore how subjects included Life on the EDGE, from the Prince Philip Award and Marsh asymmetries between players affect Why be nice? Understanding cooperative Prize for the best A-Level or Higher student the outcome of cooperative interactions. behaviour in humans and other animals and project (awarded to Edmund Bradbury in Nichola’s new position will help to create Cryptozoology: science or pseudoscience? 2011) and the Charles Darwin Award and closer ties between IoZ and UCL, which Visit www.zsl.org/science/scientific- Marsh Prize for best undergraduate work in August 2011 became our new meetings for full programme information (Rudi Verspoor), to the Thomas Henry university partner. and details of upcoming lectures. Huxley Award and Marsh Prize for an

26 the Year in review 2011 Science

Clockwise from left: ZSL’s award winners; Rebecca Kilner receiving her ZSL Scientific Medal; Armand Marie Leroi delivering the Stamford Raffles Lecture; artistic highlights from the library

exceptional doctoral thesis (Sam Weber). The ZSL Library There has been great interest in the Original and significant contributions by More than 4,100 book titles were added fascinating Nepalese and Indian bird professional zoologists are acknowledged to the online catalogue in 2011, 2,580 and mammal manuscripts of naturalist with ZSL’s Scientific Medal (Edward Feil, journal issues accessioned and 2,255 Brian Houghton Hodgson. All of Rebecca Kilner and Andrew Rambaut) and loans made to Fellows and ZSL staff, Hodgson’s English notes are now Frink Medal (Ziheng Yang). while the ZSL Library online catalogue available in electronic format, and The Marsh Awards for Conservation was used 16,600 times. Lending can be found on the library pages Biology (Paul Donald) and Marine and services were extended so that both of the main ZSL website. Freshwater Conservation (Stephen ZSL Volunteers and Student Fellows Interest in ZSL’s Archives also continued Ormerod) recognise exceptional work on may now borrow books. to increase, with a variety of researchers fundamental science and its application ZSL’s retrospective book cataloguing visiting the library and a number of ‘meet to conservation. The Thomson Reuters project – which is producing electronic the archives’ events and introductory Zoological Record Award (Windfall records for our online catalogue – tours for Fellows. Library tours for Films for Inside Nature’s Giants) and continued apace, with more than 5,000 external visitors have included members ZSL’s Silver Medal (Michael McCarthy) records added during the year. This of Visit London and the University, honour distinguished contributions enormous task is going ahead thanks to College and Research Libraries group. to the communication, understanding a generous bequest to the library from Highlights of the ‘Artefact of the and appreciation of zoology and former member of staff Connie Nutkins. month’ feature on ZSL’s website included conservation. The Stamford Raffles Many of the library’s holdings are just a sketch from the visitors’ book by artist Medal for outstanding amateur zoologists as much works of art as works of science, Joan Miró, and photographs of ‘First was presented to wildlife illustrator and Tate Britain recently borrowed one of class keeper’ Ernie Bowman, who was Richard Lewington, while the ZSL our Edward Lear watercolours, Macropus awarded ZSL’s Bronze Medal in 1927. An Award for Outstanding Contributions parryi, as well as Volume III of John image of Bowman with a young hippo he to the Zoo Community was awarded Gould’s A monograph of the Trochilidae, had reared was featured in the National to William Conway of the Wildlife or family of humming-birds, to display Portrait Gallery exhibition Hoppé Portraits: Conservation Society. at its 2011 exhibition Watercolour. Society, Studio and Street.

the Year in review 2011 27 ZSL Living conservation

28 the Year in review 2011 Discovery

Discovery and Learning With an increasingly diverse workload, a busy programme of events and a brand-new learning strategy, the department is going from strength to strength.

There were several significant changes learned more about the threats had special birthday treats for and in the Discovery and Learning to penguins in the wild and the talks on a different animal during each department in 2011. Unfortunately, work of ZSL. week of the summer holidays, all of March saw the end of 10 years of As part of the same development, which were especially popular with our subsidised school visits to ZSL London London’s interpretation team also members. There were updates to the Zoo through the Greater London contributed to the look and feel of the tiger interpretation, as well as the Authority. Despite this financial blow, new Penguin Beach shop and visitor exit, flamingo, silvery marmoset and an encouraging number of schools a precursor to a larger ‘way-finding’ woodland bird experiences, plus were willing to pay for their trip, with project that will take place in 2012, easy-to-follow signage for the new 107,606 education visits made to ZSL helping to make the Zoo easier to Trunk Line land train that carries London Zoo in 2011. This may be navigate than ever. visitors around the Whipsnade site. a 28% decrease from 2010, but it demonstrates the readiness of many schools to continue benefiting from ‘Research showed that visitors to Penguin the exceptional learning experiences provided by the Zoo. Beach had learned about the threats to At ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, education penguins in the wild and the work of ZSL’ visits rose for a second year, with 39,515 taking place in the past 12 months – a 6% increase from There were smaller improvements In recent years, and in response 2010. The Zoo is proving so popular to the London site, too, notably to the changes in the funding of with school groups that an extra film projections and signage in school visits and the increasing diversity classroom is planned at Whipsnade the giraffe house, a new fruit-bat of the work of the department, a new for 2012 to meet the increase in exhibition, updates in the Aquarium, learning strategy has been developed demand for teaching sessions. and refurbishment of the Zoo’s East by the whole Discovery and Learning The opening of Penguin Beach not Tunnel. The interpretation team also team. Our strategic aims all fit into the only quadrupled the size of the London provided banners and signage for the following categories: informal learning; penguin pool, but also enabled visitors extremely successful Project Ocean and formal learning; communication, to find out more about ZSL’s field hosted a Wildlife Crime exhibition education and public awareness conservation work through the eyes highlighting the alarming illegal trade (CEPA); evaluation; arts and culture; of a penguinologist, aided by our live in endangered species. and putting learning at the heart interpretation team. Hugely enjoyed by Meanwhile, Whipsnade celebrated of ZSL. Our goal is to develop and visitors, it was the highest-scoring exhibit its 80th birthday in style in 2011 with expand our provision in these key in the summer report by the Visitor a souvenir booklet, photo exhibitions areas, to help achieve ZSL’s mission Attraction Quality Assurance Scheme. and heritage signs created by the targets and to become world leaders Research also showed that visitors had interpretation team. Our explainers in learning.

the Year in review 2011 29 ZSL Living conservation

CEPA explained The Discovery and Learning department has been getting more involved with colleagues in ZSL’s conservation programmes to ensure that communication, education and public awareness (CEPA), the people side of conservation, is given the attention it deserves. The department has provided several training days for staff and EDGE of Existence Fellows dealing with CEPA and social change for conservation. Engagement and interpretation manager Becky Day visited ZSL’s conservation partners in Nepal to observe community involvement in vulture conservation. Here, money from the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund has allowed local community groups to set up ‘vulture restaurants’ where endangered birds can eat carcasses free from the harmful veterinary drug diclofenac. Becky was hugely impressed by the groups’ enthusiasm. Training on CEPA was also included in a conservation action planning course for ZSL global programme managers.

Zoo Academy launch Explainers in action service for ZSL visitors. Long-service In 2011, ZSL launched a new eight-day With the arrival of Penguin Beach, explainers award evenings for volunteers took course for 15 to 17-year-olds wishing at ZSL London Zoo were given the chance place at both Zoos, with 80 individuals to pursue a career with animals. The to create an interactive talk based on one in London receiving certificates for ZSL Zoo Academy ran at both our Zoos, of our most popular residents. Over 95,000 service of five years or more, and 41 and covered all aspects of working at visitors have enjoyed Penguin Beach Live at at Whipsnade. Volunteers have been ZSL. Each day began with a theory the enclosure’s 300-seat stadium since May invaluable at many of our 2011 events, session on selected animal groups, 2011. This high-energy presentation not including Zoo Lates and all our Easter, followed by a series of practical only offers a chance for visitors Halloween and Christmas activities. tasks including preparing to get an excellent view of food, cleaning out One hundred penguin feeding times, but A special day enclosures and helping per cent of Barclays also communicates key It was another successful year for Special keepers. One day was volunteers at our Special conservation messages Children’s Day, with 3,000 people also dedicated to a Children’s Day said it was through audience attending. Running over two days, this behaviour study on a worthwhile experience participation. annual event for disabled youngsters either squirrel monkeys and 92% said they would At Whipsnade, helped us build closer ties with children’s (London) or ring-tailed volunteer at ZSL explainer highlights charities, including an online charity hub. lemurs (Whipsnade). again included the veterinary- With new activity zones, including one for By the end of the course, focused touch tables. Using toy children with autism, and improved onsite each student had put together animals, visitors could experience facilities, the celebration also acquired a portfolio of evidence to help how our vets check for microchips and its first event partner in Barclays, which them with future job or university bandage limbs – as well as discovering some donated £15,000 and provided 60 eager applications, and their proud families of the more unusual equipment needed volunteers. Children’s charity Daytrippers attended a graduation ceremony with for working with exotic animals. also contributed £3,000. The event raised certificates presented by senior ZSL £40,000 and generated fantastic publicity, staff. After phenomenal feedback Valuable volunteers with a feature in the Evening Standard and from participants, six more courses At both Zoos, our volunteers have the Telegraph listing it as one of the ‘top are planned for both Zoos in 2012. continued to provide an exemplary five things to do in London this week.’

30 the Year in review 2011 Discovery

Left: enthusiastic members of last year’s popular Zoo Academy, designed to teach young people how they might pursue a career with animals. Above: making new friends at ZSL Zoos

fun, painting a political satire on evening was described by one terrified the wall in B.U.G.S!. Six-year-old participant as the ‘best ghost tour I’ve Alex Williams scooped top prize for been on!’ his drawing of a red-kneed spider, and will receive a behind-the-scenes The Living Nativity tour of B.U.G.S!, while all the creepy- In December, our Formal Learning crawly pictures from this and previous team welcomed 4,000 school children years’ events are being archived by and 900 teachers and parents to The the British Library. Living Nativity at ZSL London Zoo. The story of the first Christmas was The Big Draw Halloween tours brought to life by experienced actors Around 1,500 children of all ages ZSL London Zoo explainers got into and the Zoo’s very own animals. took part in our Big Hairy Bug Draw the spooky spirit in October with six Children enjoyed a magical Christmas during autumn half-term – and naturally Halloween ghost tours. Guided by our experience as the Wise Men introduced our B.U.G.S! exhibit made the perfect explainers, visitors encountered three their camels, shepherds tended their venue. The event was sponsored by ‘ghosts’, who relayed the stories of the sheep and goats, and Mary invited Derwent, who supplied art materials Zoo’s most haunted areas. Inside the them into the stable. The visit ended and prizes, and ably assisted by student Aquarium the tour became even more with the chance to meet Santa. The volunteers from London’s City & Guilds. chilling, with a team of volunteer event was a great success, with all Cartoonist and Zoo Advisory Committee ‘ghouls’ on hand to scare visitors in the teachers saying they were likely member Martin Rowson also joined the true Halloween style. The sold-out to return in future.

FocUs on George Fitt, education volunteer Outstanding volunteer George Fitt has been helping at ZSL London Zoo for an incredible 55 years. George and his late wife Sheila both volunteered at the mammals section in the 1960s, where the couple got to know not only the keepers, but also the gorillas, chimpanzees and orangutans. Chimpanzee Koko was particularly fond of George, and used to call whenever he approached. George later became an education volunteer, and now spends his time next to the tiger enclosure, charming visitors, talking about tiger conservation, and promoting ZSL’s Tiger SOS campaign. A real Zoo character, everyone knows George – he’ll have a morning cup of tea with the keepers before joining the daily volunteer briefing. On receiving his long-service award in December, George was given a spontaneous standing ovation. A very special man, and a very special volunteer.

the Year in review 2011 31 ZSL Living conservation

Finances

In 2011, ZSL recorded a consolidated maintained their revenues with new benefit pension scheme showed that it surplus on operations of £4.2m (2010 – grants received in 2011, but these were remains fully funded. On the basis of the £0.9m) and a total surplus, before loss on mainly connected to specific projects Accounting Standard Board’s financial the pension fund, of £4m (2010 – £1.2m) and, although they supported ZSL’s reporting standard 17, it had a £0.4m after a £0.2m loss (2010 – £0.3m gain) mission, they did not contribute to deficit at the end of 2011 (2010 – £0.3m on investments. The actuarial loss on the the unrestricted funds of the Society surplus). Funding levels continue to pension fund was £1.1m (2010 – £0.2m). to fund future development. be monitored by ZSL and the pension This leaves the net movement in funds Resources expended increased by £1.4m fund trustees on a regular basis. Whilst as a surplus of £2.9m (2010 – £1.0m). in the year, which primarily related to this scheme is now closed to employees Incoming resources increased by animal collections. joining ZSL after 30 June 2011, a new £4.8m, which chiefly related to higher The total capital spend of £3.3m (2010 stakeholder defined contribution scheme levels of animal collections income and – £2.0m) included completion of Penguin is available for those employees. voluntary income. Beach, our main animal exhibit for 2011, Our main trading subsidiaries, Zoo ZSL remains dependent on its two located at ZSL London Zoo, and the Enterprises Limited and Whipsnade Zoos for the bulk of its incoming extension of the main gift shop, together Wild Animal Park Limited, produced resources. In 2011, ZSL London Zoo with a new exit into Regent’s Park for better results than in 2010, despite visitor numbers reached 1,090,741, an visitors to the Zoo. We continue to invest the continuing difficult economic increase of 79,484 (7.9%) on 2010. At in our infrastructure to improve visitors’ conditions. While turnover at £10m ZSL Whipsnade Zoo visitor numbers were experiences and the Society’s compliance was marginally ahead of 2010, cost 502,785, an increase of 74,101 (17.3%) with disability discrimination legislation, reductions, aided by the outsourcing on 2010. The total number of visitors as well as its sustainability profile. of some catering activity, and new to the two Zoos in 2011 was 1,593,526 The June 2011 triennial actuarial income streams helped total net (2010 – 1,439,941). valuation of the ZSL 1988 defined profits rise to £2.3m (2010 – £1.9m). Incoming resources included Gift Aid recoveries which on day entry to our Zoos amounted to £1.6m (2010 – £1.5m) ‘Incoming resources increased by whilst in total, on all sources of income, amounted to £2.3m (2010 – £1.9m). £4.8m, which chiefly related to The Institute of Zoology – within higher levels of animal collections science and research incoming resources – and conservation programmes income and voluntary income’

32 the Year in review 2011 support

Group Summarised Financial Statements Summary group statement of financial activities for the year ended 31 December 2011

Year to Year to 31.12.11 31.12.10 £000 £000

Incoming resources Incoming resources from generated funds Voluntary income 3,238 1,993 Activities for generating funds Subsidiaries’ trading turnover 10,010 9,908 Other – 2 Interest and investment income 446 294 Incoming resources from charitable activities Animal collections 25,139 22,306 Science and research 5,084 4,839 Conservation programmes 1,928 1,746

Total incoming resources 45,845 41,088

Resources expended Cost of generating funds Costs of generating voluntary income 641 588 Fundraising trading Subsidiaries’ cost of goods sold and other costs 7,732 8,009 Investment management costs – 14 Charitable activities Animal collections 23,667 22,402 Science and research 5,731 5,715 Conservation programmes 3,654 3,275 Governance costs 181 158 Other resources expended – Biota – 2

Total resources expended 41,606 40,163

Net incoming resources before other recognised gains/(losses) 4,239 925 Other recognised (losses)/gains (Loss)/gain on investments (223) 312 Actuarial loss on pension scheme (1,100) (200)

Net movement in funds 2,916 1,037

Reconciliation of funds

Total funds balance brought forward 47,499 46,462

Total funds balance carried forward 50,415 47,499

The above results are all for continuing operations. No statement of total recognised gains and losses has been prepared as all such gains and losses have been included above.

the Year in review 2011 33 ZSL Living conservation

Group Summarised Financial Statements (continued) Summary group balance sheet at 31 December 2011

31.12.11 31.12.10 £000 £000

Fixed assets Tangible assets 35,179 35,066 Investments 3,687 3,879 38,866 38,945

Current assets Stocks 730 647 Debtors 3,396 3,719 Short-term deposits 6,000 2,000 Cash at bank and in hand 7,622 7,397 17,748 13,763 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year (5,799) (5,509)

Net current assets 11,949 8,254

Net assets excluding pension scheme (liability)/asset 50,815 47,199

Defined benefit pension scheme (liability)/asset (400) 300

Net assets 50,415 47,499

Funds Unrestricted – General 7,619 5,459 – Designated 36,209 35,084

Unrestricted funds excluding pension (liability)/asset 43,828 40,543

Unrestricted – Pension (liability)/asset (400) 300

Total unrestricted funds 43,428 40,843

Restricted – Endowments 640 661 – Other 6,347 5,995

Total funds 50,415 47,499

Trustees’ statement accompanying the group summarised financial statements The group summarised financial The full Trustees’ Report and financial Signed on behalf of the Trustees on statements are not the statutory accounts, statements and Baker Tilly UK Audit 19 April 2012. but a summary of information relating to LLP’s audit report on them were the group statement of financial activities approved on 17 April 2012 and and the group balance sheet. 19 April 2012 respectively and The full Trustees’ Report and financial will be submitted to the Charity statements, from which the summarised Commission. financial statements are derived, have Copies can be obtained from the been externally examined by Baker Tilly Finance Director at The Zoological UK Audit LLP and its audit report on Society of London, Regent’s Park, Paul Rutteman CBE BSc (Econ) FCA them is unqualified. London NW1 4RY. Treasurer

34 the Year in review 2011 support

Net income/expenditure by activity 5 2011 2010 Net Net 4 2011 2010 £m £m 3

2 Voluntary income 2.6 1.5

£ millions 1 Trading 2.3 1.9 Interest/investments 0.4 0.3 0 Animal collections 1.5 (0.2) (-1) Science and research (0.7) (0.8) Conservation programmes (1.7) (1.6) (-2) Governance (0.2) (0.2)

(-3) Biota 0 0 Biota Animal income Trading research Total net Total Interest /Interest resources incoming Voluntary Total net incoming resources 4.2 0.9 collections Science and Governance investments programmes Conservation Income/expenditure Animal feed & transport Investments 0.4 (1%) Grants 5.8 (13%) 0.9 (2%) Other donations Cost of buildings 1.7 (4%) and sites 7.5 (18%)

Travel costs Catering 0.7 (2%) 5.8 (13%) ZSL Zoo Staff and ZSL admissions associated Depreciation income 2011 18.4 (40%) costs 20.9 expenditure 3.1 (7%) (50%) £45.8m 2011 £41.6m Advertising, Merchandising promotions 4.2 (9%) and publications 2.6 (6%) Other operating income 2.4 (5%) Other costs Gift Aid 2.7 (7%) 2.3 (5%) Zoo visitor donations Membership Cost of goods sold 1.5 (3%) 3.3 (7%) 3.2 (8%) Independent auditor’s statement to the Trustees of The Zoological Society of London (an unincorporated charity) We have examined the summarised We also read the other information Trustees’ Annual Report of the Zoological financial statements of the Zoological contained in the summarised Annual Society of London for the year ended Society of London on pages 32 to 35. Report and consider the implications 31 December 2011. for our report if we become aware of We have not considered the effects of Respective responsibilities any apparent misstatements or material any events between the date on which of trustees and auditors inconsistencies with the summarised we signed our report on the full annual The Trustees are responsible for preparing financial statements. The other financial statements (19 April 2012) and the summarised financial statements in information comprises only the the date of this statement. accordance with applicable UK law and financial review (‘finances’). the recommendations of the charities We conducted our work in accordance statement of recommended practice. with Bulletin 2008/3 issued by the Our responsibility is to report to you Auditing Practices Board. our opinion on the consistency of the Baker Tilly UK Audit LLP summarised financial statements in the Opinion Statutory Auditor summarised Annual Report with the full In our opinion the summarised financial 25 Farringdon Street annual financial statements and Trustees’ statements are consistent with the London EC4A 4AB Annual Report. full financial statements and the 19 April 2012

the Year in review 2011 35 ZSL Living conservation

Thanks for your support From fundraising challenges and individual gifts to mutually rewarding corporate partnerships and funding grants, there are many ways to help our work – and ZSL’s supporters were as generous as ever in 2011.

Join the challenge ZSL saw a number of very successful fundraising events in 2011, with a record number of committed fundraisers taking part in our challenges. We also ventured into new events, gaining places in the Virgin London Marathon that raised more than £17,000, as well as taking part in overseas challenge events for the first time. The intrepid Ryan Cooke cycled 480km across Rajasthan in India, facing high temperatures, tricky terrain and long days, to raise funds for ZSL’s Tiger SOS campaign. Thank you to all of our fundraisers and organisations who helped raise more than £50,000 – a new record for ZSL – in challenge events throughout 2011. Remember us in your will As an adult, Edna worked as a wages Legacy gifts are an important – and clerk and was a member of the Territorial Be an individual hugely appreciated – source of funding Army in Primrose Hill. Always a kind Individual supporters and donors for ZSL’s work, helping us achieve our and thoughtful person, Edna will be remain at the heart of our work. mission by supporting not just our Living sadly missed by those who knew her. Her Long-term ZSL supporters Robert Collections but also our conservation commitment to making the world a better and Jenny Akester have generously programmes and scientific research. In place is shown by her support of many donated £19,000 in the past four years 2011, we received a generous legacy gift worthwhile charities, including ZSL. As a towards the Mongolia Steppe Forward of £110,000 from Edna Groves for our ZSL Lifetime Fellow, Edna was a regular Programme, which aims to empower research and conservation work at the visitor to the Zoo and got to know many Mongolian people by providing them Institute of Zoology. A true Londoner, of the staff. Her decision to make a gift in with the skills necessary to manage their Edna was born in Brixton and her father her will was both personal and practical. own conservation programmes. Jenny was a policeman at the Albany Street Edna wanted to show her appreciation for and Robert are ZSL Patrons and Jenny station, close to ZSL London Zoo. As a a lifetime of pleasure derived from visits has been a ZSL Fellow since 2003. They member of the constabulary, her father to and friendships made at the two Zoos, are a great example of individuals whose could visit the Zoo for free, and Edna had and also support her conviction that our support reaches across the breadth of happy memories of feeding the animals scientists have the expertise and dedication ZSL’s work at home and abroad. on regular family days out. needed in research and conservation.

36 the Year in review 2011 support

From left: ZSL is helping conserve Mongolian species such as Bactrian camels, photographed here by supporter Robert Akester; Ricky the rockhopper penguin planning his holidays; Patron Jan-Philipp Pfander running the Royal Parks Foundation Half Marathon for ZSL ‘ZSL saw a number of very successful fundraising events in 2011, with a record number of committed fundraisers taking part in our challenges’

Holiday with Exodus The Mohamed bin Zayed The Rufford Foundation How many Antarctic holidays can you go species Conservation Fund The Rufford Foundation is an independent on with ZSL’s very own penguinologist? Many areas of ZSL’s work benefit from grant-making trust that has worked closely Thanks to our partnership with Exodus, the generous support of charitable with ZSL for several years, providing seed the answer is two. Adventure holiday foundations, but finding organisations funding for new initiatives, finance for company Exodus became ZSL’s official that are able to make grants for the fieldwork and committed support for wildlife travel partner in May 2011. conservation of individual species ZSL’s work on the International Union With a focus on low-impact tourism can be particularly challenging. for Conservation of Nature Red List of and a wealth of extraordinary wildlife The Mohamed bin Zayed Species Threatened Species, a key information tool experiences across all seven continents, Conservation Fund recognises that for biodiversity conservation and all those Exodus is ideally placed to support the bigger-picture environmental issues involved in policy and decision-making. work of ZSL. can sometimes overshadow species The Society is fortunate to have In their first eight months supporting conservation, and its grant-making benefited from the proactive approach ZSL, Exodus generously provided us strategy seeks to address this. In 2011, that the Rufford Foundation takes to with £50,000, helping to fund both the fund supported no less than nine its funding. Two of the four new grants our penguin conservation work in species-level initiatives at ZSL, including we received in 2011 – supporting Antarctica and our new exhibit, our work with the Hainan gibbon and the projects Tiger conservation in the Penguin Beach, at ZSL London Zoo. our programme with cheetahs and wild Sundarbans and Monitoring bushmeat Supporters and visitors can also benefit dogs in Africa. As well as helping us with imports to Europe – stemmed from a call from the partnership by receiving much-needed financial support, we are to action by those within the foundation, 5% off any Exodus holiday. grateful to the Fund for highlighting seeking to address their immediate We hope this is the beginning of a the value of species conservation in conservation concerns. We are grateful long and wonderful partnership the ongoing global debate about our to the Trustees of The Rufford between ZSL and Exodus. environmental priorities. Foundation for their foresight.

the Year in review 2011 37 ZSL Living conservation

ZSL would like to thank all our supporters, Sahara Conservation Fund Jean Diazma Members, Friends, Patrons, Fellows and Save Our Seas Foundation Joan and John Digby** volunteers for their contribution and SeaWorld & Busch Gardens John Edwards commitment in 2011. We simply could not Conservation Fund Pete Eggleston carry out our mission without your ongoing Steppe Forward Programme William Elfers Jr** dedication and support. Special thanks Synchronicity Earth Sir Donald Gordon go to those mentioned on these pages. The Barbara and Stanley Judith Knight Fink Foundation Kate Humble Development Corporate United States Fish and The Ernest Kleinwort Philip Nolan Strategy Board supporters Wildlife Service Charitable Trust Martyn and Sylvia Notley Rupert Hambro Chairman+ and members Veterinary Laboratories Agency The Foundation of Prince Bob and Sarah Rihal Nici Audhlam-Gardiner ACM Environmental PLC William and Prince Harry Mike Staunton Professor Sir Patrick Bateson FRS American Express Trusts and The Hobson Charity Jonathan Stephens The Countess of Chichester* Bain and Company Foundations The Michael Marks Dr David Cohen CBE Barclays 10th Duke of Rutland Charitable Trust Non- Anna Haber+ Bloomberg LP Memorial Conservation Trust The Mohamed bin Zayed governmental Lord Moser Exodus Travels Ltd 21st Century Tiger Species Conservation Fund organisations, Lady Solti Genus-ABS American Friends of London The Prince William & societies, zoos Tim Tookey+ Giraffe Zoo, Inc (AFOLZ) Miss Catherine Middleton and universities Grace Wang H A Bennett & Sons Arcus Foundation Charitable Gift Fund Biodiversity and Agricultural Camilla Whitworth-Jones Ketchum Pleon Ltd AXA Foundation The Privy Purse Charitable Trust Commodities Program Musim Mas BBC Wildlife Fund The Rose Foundation British Ecological Society ZSL Patrons Paper Round Blue Marine Foundation The Rufford Foundation British Herpetological Society Robert and Jenny Akester Perception Events Ltd Bruce Wake Charitable Trust The Waterloo Foundation Cleveland Metroparks Nici Audhlam-Gardiner Petplan Cecil King Memorial Fund The Wixamtree Trust Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Francis and Jo Beddington PUTU Iron Ore Mining Inc. Charities Advisory Trust Thoiry-Peaugres Conservation Copenhagen Zoo Dame Margaret Booth RWE npower Dolly Knowles Charitable Trust Tigris Foundation Daytrippers Simon and Elaine Brown Santander Dorothy Howard Charitable Trust UK Trust for Nature European Association of Zoos The Countess of Chichester Selfridges & Co. Dr Robert Andrew Conservation in Nepal and Aquaria (EAZA) David and Ruth Coffer SNC-Lavalin Environment Inc. Rutherford Trust Vodafone Foundation French Institute for Exploration Dame Vivien Duffield DBE Vodafone World of Durrell Wildlife Zebra Foundation of the Sea (Ifremer), France Mo Duncan Difference UK Conservation Trust Hippotigris A/S John Edwards Volans Ventures EcoHealth Alliance Legacies from Indianapolis Zoo Mr and Mrs P Flamman Wilmar International Ltd Edinburgh Trust No 2 Account the estates of International Union for Sir Donald Gordon Esmée Fairbairn Foundation Shirley Biggs Conservation of Nature Dame Anne Griffiths Statutory and Fondation Segré Doris Leslie Bowen King Khalid Wildlife Dennis Ho other grant- Gilchrist Educational Trust Sameer John Clifford Bowyer Research Centre Duncan Hockley making bodies Heritage of London Trust Hugh David Clark Kolmårdens Djurpark Tim and Stephanie Hunt Animal Health and Veterinary J.M. Kaplan Fund Vera Gertrude Cumming National Geographic Society Deanna Ibrahim Laboratories Agency (AHVLA) Lindeth Charitable Trust Ashley Jean Dziama NaturZoo Rheine Emily Lawson and Big Lottery Fund McGrath Charitable Trust Muriel Mary Ferns Oceanites Nick Howard Darwin Intiative Minnesota Zoo Foundation Colette Anna Fontaine Paignton Zoo Martyn and Sylvia Notley Department for Environment, Morris Animal Foundation Edna Mary Groves Environmental Park Jay Patel Food and Rural Affairs N Smith Charitable Settlement Jacqueline Diane Howard Rewilding Europe Rt Hon Lord Paul and (Defra) National Fish and Leonard Thomas Keith Riverbanks Zoo & Garden Lady Paul Deutsche Gesellschaft Wildlife Foundation Maisie Esmee Knott Conservation Support Fund Family Pfander für Internationale Newman’s Own Foundation Margarete Helene Markus Roundtable on Sustainable Sally Plummer Zusammenarbeit Oak Foundation Lady Mary Barbara Smith Palm Oil Bob and Sarah Rihal Environment Agency Ocean Park Conservation Edna Mabel Mary Townsend Royal Geographical Society Armins and Cynthia Rusis European Commission Foundation (Hong Kong) Crozette Ada Worsfold Royal Society for the The Blackburn Family Mayor of London Panthera/Save the Tiger Fund Protection of Birds The Sir Stamford Natural England Panton Trust Individuals Royal Zoological Society Raffles Patron Natural Environment Philippine Tropical Jenny Akester of Scotland S Whittam and D Jordan Research Council (NERC) Forest Foundation Rob and Allison Challis Shepreth Wildlife Park Nathaniel and Sara Zilkha The Royal Society Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors Jenifer Deco Saint Louis Zoo

38 the Year in review 2011 support

Sustainable Fisheries Greenland Dr John Robinson United Nations Office at Nairobi Professor Alex Rogers Patron Wildlife Conservation Society Dr Yvonne Sadovy Her Majesty the Queen World Bank Claudio Segré WorldWide Volunteering Professor Charles Sheppard ZSL Council members 2011 Enterprises Ltd Dr Simon Stuart President: Professor Sir Patrick Bateson FRS WWF UK Kerry ten Kate Secretary: Professor Paul H Harvey CBE, FRS (to 25 January 2011), Zoologische Gesellschaft für James Thornton Professor Geoff Boxshall FRS (from 19 April 2011) Arten- und Dr John Veron Treasurer: Paul Rutteman CBE, BSc (Econ), FCA Vice presidents: Populationsschutz (ZGAP) Amanda Vincent Dr Brian Bertram MA, PhD Professor David Warrell Martin Cooke MSc, MA, VetMB, MRCVS, Cert VPH (MH) Government Alannah Weston Nigel Winser supporters Sheila Anderson MBE, FBAASc, BSc (Hons) International Whaling Richard Melville Ballerand BSc (Econ), BSc (Econ), BSc DCouns, Commission Honorary FRSA, FLS, FRUSI Westminster City Council Research Michael Bird FCA+ Fellows Dr Jonathan Boyce DM, MA, MSc, FRCP, FFPH* HonOrary Professor Andrew Balmford John Edwards MA, FLS Conservation Professor Malcolm Bennett Ray Heaton CertEd, BEd, GIBiol, MSc, FRGS, FLS* Fellows Professor Tim Coulson The Hon Sir William McAlpine BT, FRSE, FILT Rosalind Aveling Professor Peter Daszak Dr Anna Meredith MA, VetMB, PhD, CertLAS, DZooMed, MRCVS Dr Glyn Davies Dr Matthew Fisher Elizabeth Passey MA, FRGS Emmanuel De Merode Professor John Gittleman Mark Ridgway BSc, PGCE, FLS Dr Nick Dulvy Professor Katherine Martin Rowson* Dr Charles Foley Homewood Sean Rovai+ Matthew Hatchwell Professor E J Milner-Gulland Ken Sims * to 21 June 2011 + from 21 June 2011 Herbert Hofer Professor Ian Owens Kate Humble Professor Andy Purvis Directors Dr Jonathan Hutton Professor Charles Tyler Director General: Ralph Armond MA Dr Anwarul Islam Professor Paul Watson Conservation Programmes Director: Professor Jonathan Baillie PhD Dr R D Jakati Director, Institute of Zoology: Professor Tim Blackburn DPhil Dr David Macdonald * Stepped down during 2011 Zoological Director: David Field MBA, FBS, FLS Professor Georgina Mace + Joined during 2011 Human Resources Director: Ian Meyrick BA, FCIPD **via American Friends Finance Director: Mike Russell FCMA Professor Jessica Meeuwig of London Zoo (AFOLZ) Dr Maurus Msuha Marketing and Communications Director: Rich Storton MA Edward Norton ZSL would like to thank those Development Director: Jackie Tanner BSc (to 30 June 2011), Dr Timothy O’Brien who specifically wish to James Wren BA (from 19 September 2011) Dr Vibhu Prakash remain anonymous.

Publication ZSL Contact Centre 0844 225 1826 acknowledgements Director General’s Office 020 7449 6207 Design and editorial coordination: Think Membership 020 7449 6228 Managing editor: Amy Harris Development and fundraising 020 7449 6583 Editor: Claire Sargent Designer: Dom Scott Library 020 7449 6293 Sub-editors: Gemma Green, Alec Johnson This Annual Review is printed on 100% recycled paper. We extend our thanks to ZSL staff and other colleagues for the use of photos in this publication: D Vidanapthirana, Jonathan Baillie, Lauren Baily, Richard Boycott, Eric Brun, Sarah Christie, Cravens, Sarah Durant, James Godwin, Karen Hatch, Andrew Meredith, Katie Miller, Tristan Newkey-Burden, London Zoo, Regent’s Park, London NW1 4RY Nichola Raihani, Selfridges & Co, Anne and Charles Sheppard, Dan www.zsl.org Sprawson, Brian Zimmerman. Cover image: Ben Collen Registered charity in England and Wales: no 208728

the Year in review 2011 39 ZSL Living conservation T he of Zoological London Society 2011

The Zoological Society of London Registered Charity in England and Wales: no 208728

Regent’s Park London NW1 4RY and at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo Dunstable Bedfordshire LU6 2LF

www.zsl.org

8 the Year in review 2011