Conservation & Research

FEATURES

8 TURNING THINKING GLOBALLY INTO ACTING GLOBALLY CONNECT Sara Hallager, Chelle Plasse, August 2013 William Van Lint and Chris Hibbard

12 INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT FOR CRANES michael Mace, Warren Lynch, Claire Mirande, Nucharin Songsasen, barbara Durrant, Fred Beall, John Azua and Andrew Schuman

16 BEYOND SUSTAINABILITY Promoting a Socially and Environmentally Beneficial Aquarium Fish Trade beth Firchau, Scott Dowd, M.Sc., and michael Tlusty, PhD

20 A NEW DAY (AND PLACE) FOR TURTLES TSA's Turtle Survival Center rick Hudson and Dwight Lawson, PhD

28 IT'S A BOY! IT'S A GIRL! IT'S A LITTER! Why the AZA Wildlife Contraception Center Wants Your Birth Announcements

36 THE AMUR TIGER AND AMUR LEOPARD GLOBAL SPECIES MANAGEMENT PLANS Cynthia Kreider, Tara Harris, kathy Traylor-Holzer, tanya Arzhanova, Sarah Christie

40 CEF UPDATE

42 ACCURATELY ANSWERING THE AGE-OLD QUESTION: HOW LONG DO THEY LIVE? lisa Faust, Sharon Dewar and Patty Peters

IN EVERY ISSUE

3 A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO

6 CONSERVATION & RESEARCH

23 MEMBER NEWS

30 GREEN TALES ON THE COVER 32 BIRTHS & HATCHINGS The Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA) is committed to zero turtle extinctions in the 21st 39 EXHIBITS century. Originally organized as an International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) partnership in 2001 in response to the Asian turtle crisis, the organization has 47 ANNOUNCEMENTS since grown into a highly effective global network that inspires and facilitates turtle 48 MEMBER UPDATES conservation. Based out of the Fort Worth Zoo, in Fort Worth, Texas, the TSA operates independently as a nonprofit.

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2 CONNECT August 2013 A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO president & ceo uilding the sustainability of collections in AZA-accredited aquariums and zoos is a top priority for the Association. The best minds in the zoo and aquarium community in North BAmerica and around the world are developing new strategies for improving population sustainability, including increased international cooperation.

Collaboration and cooperation between regional associations is an important element in building sustainable populations and has assisted in developing WAZA Global Species Management Plans (GSMPs). Many species in collections worldwide need a global focus in order to maintain adequate levels of genetic and demographic diversity in the coming century. AZA has put in place formal memoranda of understanding with the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria and the Zoo and Aquarium Association in Australasia; is conducting international workshops and sessions at AZA meetings; and is looking forward to the first joint Taxon Advisory Group (TAG) Chair meeting in 2014. All these initiatives are aimed at increasing communication, cooperation, and collaboration between the different regions on sustainability of collections.

In North America, AZA staff, the Wildlife Conservation and Management Committee (WCMC), the AZA Population Management Center (PMC), the AZA Wildlife Contraception Center (WCC), and Scientific Advisory Groups (SAGs) continue to work with AZA Animal Programs to increase the sustainability of managed populations.

This year’s AZA Annual Conference is being hosted by the Kansas City Zoo in Kansas City, Mo., September 7-12. The Conference will feature sessions that focus on sustainability of both aquatic and terrestrial populations. I encourage you to attend and to contribute to the global effort to sustain species for future generations.

Editorial policy: CONNECT is published by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization dedicated to the advancement of zoological parks and aquariums for conservation, education, scientific studies and recreation. Issued to members as a free service; not available as a subscription. Mailed during the first week of the month. Articles submitted for CONNECT do not necessarily reflect the opinions and policies of AZA.

Mission: CONNECT is a forum for promoting AZA’s mission by highlighting zoo and aquarium trends, industry initiatives, conservation efforts and member achievements.

Copyright policy: All items appearing in CONNECT are copyright of AZA. Permission to reprint items must be obtained by contacting AZA’s Publications Department at [email protected].

Advertising policy: Advertising is available. AZA reserves the right to refuse advertising not consistent with its mission. Ad contracts are issued on an annual basis, and ads are accepted on a one, three, six, nine or 12-time basis. Deadline for insertion orders is the first of the month preceding publication. Deadline for artwork is the 10th of the month preceding publication. Rates and mechanical require- ments are available upon request.

August 2013 CONNECT 3 AZA BOARD & STAFF

aza staff aza board of directors CONNECT staff 2012 - 2013 Tim Lewthwaite, Editor officers Lisa Cadigan, Designer, Cadigan Creative Chair CONNECT editorial Board Tom Schmid Melinda Arnold, Dickerson Park Zoo President and CEO, Texas State Aquarium Steve Feldman, Senior Vice President, External Affairs Ph: (361) 881-1242, E-mail: [email protected] Martha Fischer, Saint Louis Zoo Julie Larsen-Maher, Wildlife Conservation Society Chair Elect Tim Lewthwaite, AZA Publications Manager Jackie Ogden, PhD Kristin L. Vehrs, AZA Executive Director Vice President, Animals, Science and Environment, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts AZA Staff Ph: (407) 938-2831, E-mail: [email protected] Jim Maddy, President & CEO Kristin L. Vehrs, Executive Director Vice Chair Paul Boyle, PhD, Senior Vice President of Conservation & Dennis E. Pate Education Executive Director & CEO, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo Steve Feldman, Senior Vice President, External Affairs Ph: (402) 738-2030, E-mail: [email protected] Jill Nicoll, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Organizational Past Chair board & staff Planning & Operations L. Patricia Simmons Debborah Luke, PhD, Vice President President and CEO, Akron Zoological Park Animal Conservation Ph: (330) 375-2550, E-mail: [email protected] Denny Lewis, Vice President Accreditation Programs Jennifer Keaton, Vice President, Congressional Affairs DIRECTORs Steve Olson, Vice President Federal Relations Rick Barongi Jay Vestal, Vice President of Sales & Marketing Director, Houston Zoo, Inc. Phil Wagner, Vice President of Finance Ph: (713) 533-6800, E-mail: [email protected] Candice Dorsey, PhD, Director Animal Conservation Ted A. Beattie Jennifer DiNenna, Manager, Accreditation President and CEO, John G. Shedd Aquarium Muri Dueppen, Director, Integrated Marketing Ph: (312) 692-3101, E-mail: [email protected] Jennifer Fields, Communications Coordinator Jim Breheny Allegra Formento, Marketing Assistant Executive Vice President and General Director, Zoos and Aquarium Rachel Gauza, Citizen Science Program Specialist Jonathan Little Cohen Director of the Bronx Zoo Wildlife Conservation Society Ph: (718) 220-5101, E-mail: [email protected] Rebecca Greenberg, Program Assistant, Conservation & Science Steve Burns Director, Zoo Boise Shelly Grow, Senior Conservation Biologist Ph: (208) 384-4125, x203, E-mail: [email protected] Melissa Howerton, Vice President, Conferences & Membership Lynn B. Clements Tim Lewthwaite, Publications Manager Director, Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center Nette Pletcher, Director of Conservation Education Ph: (757) 385-0241, E-mail: [email protected] Barbara Pueschel, Board & Committees Liaison Dennis W. Kelly Nancy Ramos, Receptionist Director, Smithsonian National Zoological Park Amy Rutherford, Professional Development Program Manager Ph: (202) 633-4442, E-mail: [email protected] Ana Maria Sanchez, Controller Kevin Mills Barbara Skewes, Manager, Member Information Services President and CEO, South Carolina Aquarium Sarah Sullivan, Manager, Digital Media Ph: (843) 579-8555, E-mail: [email protected] Cheryl Wallen, Meeting Planner Craig D. Piper Consultant, Denver Zoo Association of Zoos & Aquariums Ph: (303) 884-8763, E-mail: [email protected] 8403 Colesville Road, Suite 710 John T. Walczak Silver Spring, MD 20910 Director, Louisville Zoological Garden 301-562-0777 (phone); 301-562-0888 (fax); www.aza.org Ph: (502) 238-5335, E-mail: [email protected]

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WHAT IS SUSTAINABILITY? Lacy, RC. 2013. Achieving true sus- sponse to narrower vegetation on the Bob Lacy’s provocative review of sustainability of zoo populations. Zoo test islands than the source island. tainability should be read by everyone Biology, 32: 19-26. Correspondence to: These findings demonstrate the joint associated with the zoo and aquarium [email protected] contributions of founder effects and profession. Making the distinction be- natural selection in these populations. THE PERSISTENCE OF tween sustainability and management FOUNDER EFFECTS Kolbe, JJ, Leal, M, Schoener, TW, of genetic diversity, Lacy makes strong Spiller, DA, Losos, JB. 2012. Founder In this unique study, male-female arguments that sustainability of many effects persist despite adaptive dif- brown anole pairs were randomly se- zoo and aquarium species can only be ferentiation: A field experiment lected from the same source island achieved through an integrated man- with lizards. Science, 335, 1086-1089. population and used to establish popu- agement plan involving both in-situ Correspondence to: [email protected] and ex-situ efforts. This broad based lations on seven lizard-free small is- approach must not only integrate re- lands in the Bahamas. These island CORAL NURSERIES SERVE sults from the most current scientific populations were then examined over AS GENETIC REPOSITORIES research but should identify and pri- time to determine how such founder This paper presents research on the oritize needs for future research. And events contribute to evolutionary di- effects of a cold-water event in the where appropriate it must build coop- vergence. Each of the populations de- Florida Reef Tract on the survival of erative networks that are financially veloped unique, significant and per- wild colonies and nursery-reared frag- and logistically efficient. Because sistence genetic and morphological ments of the threatened staghorn coral Lacy’s research is the basis for genetic differences, although all populations A. cervicornis. Staghorn fragments were management within AZA, his call to adapted to environmental conditions collected from healthy donor colonies arms deserves serious consideration. in the predicted direction with the from inshore, mid-channel, and off- emergence of shorter rear legs in re-

6 CONNECT August 2013 shore shelf zones, and placed within Schopmeyer, SA, Lirman, D, Bartels, through zoo/aquarium behind-the- conservation & research in-situ staghorn nurseries established E, Byrne, J, Gilliam, DS, Hunt, J, scenes tours, raising species in school in different regions of the Florida Reef Johnson, ME, Larson, EA, Maxwell, classrooms, and release of reintroduced Tract, using cement platforms or line K, Nedimyer, K, Walter, C. 2012. In situ species allows the general public to fos- nurseries. Following the cold-water coral nurseries serve as genetic reposi- ter appreciation and compassion for event, complete mortality occurred at tories for coral reef restoration after an animals other than compelling exotic 43 percent of wild staghorn donor colo- extreme cold-water event. Restoration mammals. nies. Of these donor sites, 75 percent Ecology, 20, 696–703. Correspondence George, AL, Hamilton, MT, and had surviving fragments within in-situ to: [email protected] Alford, KF. 2013. We all live down- coral nurseries, demonstrating that stream: Engaging partners and visitors these nurseries acted as genetic reposi- ENGAGING VISITORS IN CONSERVATION in freshwater fish reintroduction pro- tories for corals that would have died grammes. International Zoo Yearbook, 47, Zoos and aquariums can excite visitors in the donor sites. Since coral nurseries 140-150. Correspondence to: and partners in non-charismatic micro- are located in deeper water and farther [email protected] from the shallow waters near shore they fauna by encouraging and inviting them were buffered from the coldest tempera- to participate in local conservation and/ tures of the event. The authors conclude or reintroduction programs. Two long- that coral reef management, restoration term studies reported how reintroduc- and conservation should use nurseries tion programs with native freshwater to grow healthy and genetically diverse fish incorporated public involvement corals to enhance threatened and endan- and piqued public interest in nor- gered species. mally unpopular species. Participation

August 2013 CONNECT 7 hinking globally is not a new concept. However, putting thoughts and words into conservation Tactions is now more imperative than ever.

In order to go beyond building familiarity with our colleagues and to establish a baseline for future cooperative management, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Avian Scientific Advisory Group (ASAG) hosted the workshop “We’re Not In It Alone-Integrating Conservation Strategies Across Mutual Organizations” at the 2013 AZA Mid-Year Meeting. The goal of the ASAG sponsored workshop was to give the AZA membership an introduction and understanding of the various global organizations involved in cooperative conservation. We based this concept on a highly successful workshop conducted by European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) at the 2012 midyear Bird Taxon Advisory Group (TAG) meetings in Walsrode, Germany. The ASAG workshop used case studies of successful, globally-managed programs to illustrate successful partnerships. It also gave AZA program leaders (of all taxa) the tools for managing their populations at a cooperative and effective global level. ASAG was most fortunate to have representatives from all the major global zoological organizations in attendance as well as 150 AZA attendees. Following an introduction by AZA President

and CEO, Jim Maddy, fourteen speakers representing EAZA, the Conservation Breeding Specialist Group (CBSG), The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Zoo and Aquarium Association (ZAA, Australasia), The Latin American Association of Zoos and Aquariums (ALZPA), and AZA presented information on how to work globally, the benefits of global cooperation, an overview of Global Species Management Plans (GSMPs), commonly encountered obstacles to global management, and successful case studies of global management and cooperation. The workshop concluded with an overview of global population management by Danny De Man, manager, collection coordination and conservation at EAZA, and Jackie Ogden, vice president, animals, science and environment at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and AZA’s chair-elect. The program generated a great deal of discussion both in the form of questions to the presenters as well as dialog in the hall- ways and lunch rooms. The following day, participants gathered at a Collaborative Thinking Session and were asked the following question: What do you see as stumbling blocks to working more closely with international associations and how can AZA promote program leaders’ efforts to overcome them? Approximately 60 participants attended the Collaborative Thinking Session and generated a working list of roadblocks that thwart AZA program leaders from working globally. The stumbling blocks identified are nearly identical to those highlighted in a simi-

8 CONNECT August 2013

© Jim Jenkins lar workshop held at the 2011 WAZA Annual Conference [Gusset, • Developing a mechanism to allow international colleagues M. 2012. Obstacles to Global Population Management. WAZA News to attend AZA conferences as well as for AZA members to at- 1/12 p. 34] and at the EAZA Annual Conference in Montpellier in tend other regional conferences 2011 [Minutes EAZA TAG chairs meeting, Montpellier] as well as • Providing translation services those identified in a paper by Lees and Wilcken, 2009 “Sustaining • Developing resources for program leaders to access contacts the Ark: the challenges faced by zoos in maintaining viable popula- within government organizations and other similar institutions”, International Zoo Yearbook 43: 6-18. tions around the world The primary stumbling blocks identified by the ASAG work- We know the roadblocks and some potential solutions to global shop participants, from a total of over 35, are: management. Yet global management remains difficult. Certainly • Lack of funding the idea of global management is not new. Efforts toward global • Lack of institutional support including time, money and op- management were initiated in the mid-1970s with the formation portunities for travel of ISIS. ISIS enabled zoos to share information on animals for the • Lack of knowledge to make global transfers happen (permit- purpose of global management. Ten years later, Soulé et al. [1986] ting, international transfers, airline restrictions) in the paper titled “The millennium ark: how long a voyage, how • Program leaders not knowing who to contact many staterooms, how many passengers” proposed global coop- • Communication challenges including language barriers and eration as a way to maximize the number of sustainable popula- cultural differences tions using available global space. As Lees and Wilcken [2009] de- • Lack of reciprocal sharing of information between global zoological organizations • Costs, logistics, preshipment testings, permitting, quarantine challenges to making transfers a reality • National and international regulations often make it difficult for zoos to transfer animals between regions.

TURNING THINKING GLOBALLY INTO ACTING GLOBALLY

• Lack of consistent terminology in taxonomy between TAGs • Zoos with no or limited experience in global transporting lack mentors • Different husbandry philosophies between regions In addition to identifying the major stumbling blocks to global management, participants were asked to compile a list of ideas on how AZA could help minimize or even eliminate the identified roadblocks. Over 30 suggestions were generated including: © Jim Jenkins • Organizing joint TAG meetings between the regions scribe, what Soulé et al. were proposing was a modern day Noah’s • Initiating a global listserve to increase communication Ark. Lees and Wilcken summarize the ensuing decade following among species coordinators Soulé et al. in their paper “Sustaining the Ark: the challenges • Working with USFWS and CITES authorities to streamline faced by zoos in maintaining viable populations” as they describe the process of global transfers the explosion of managed programs such as Species Survival • Encouraging institutions that accept new program leaders to Plans® (SSPs), European Endangered Species Programmes (EEPs), encourage those people to work more globally and stress the Australasian Species Management Programs (ASMPs) and Global importance of global management to directors Captive Action Plans (GASPs). These were followed by GSMPs • Utilizing virtual meeting software to increase opportunities which were formalized for a couple taxa in 2003. And yet in 2013, for inter-regional communication, cut costs, and reduce our global cooperation remains the exception not the rule leaving carbon footprint many zoo populations isolated when cooperative management • Developing a course or handbook on international collabora- could make them sustainable. tion/permitting Global cooperation is no longer a choice for the population • Adding information on global management to AZA manager, it is a necessity and GSMPs are perhaps the strongest Population Management Courses tools for the future of global population management. Progress • Working with EAZA, ZAA and other regional organizations is being made and regional zoological associations are working to enable TAG Chairs to access documents and data required continued, page 11 for effective global population management. August 2013 CONNECT 9 10 CONNECT August 2013 together as never before. The WAZA Committee for Population Management is organizing an unprecedented global TAG meeting for TAG Chairs [June 2014, Birdpark Avifauna, the Netherlands]. The future is bright if we, as a global community can commit to the reality that we are in it together and must cooperate at a global scale if the wildlife populations we manage are to be sustainable both in zoos and in the wild for the long-term future. Global cooperation is key. References

Lees, C. and Wilcken, J. (2009). Sustaining the Ark: the challenges faced by zoos in maintaining viable populations. International Zoo Yearbook 43: 6-18.

Soule´, M., Gilpin, M., Conway, W. and Foose, T. (1986): The mil- lenium ark: how long a voyage, how many staterooms, how many passengers? Zoo Biology 5: 101–113.

Sara Hallager is a Biologist at the Smithsonian National Zoological Park

Chelle Plasse is the Animal Operations Manager at Disney's Animal Kingdo

William Van Lint is the Assistant Manager (Birds, Lower Vertebrates and Invertebrates), Collection Coordination and Conservation ay the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA)

Chris Hibbard is the Executive Director of the Zoo and Aquarium Association in Australia

August 2013 CONNECT 11 INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT FOR CRANES The Role of Regional Breeding Centers

eople have shared a bond with cranes for Pthousands of years. Cranes have been woven throughout the fabric of ancient cultures in Asia, Egypt, sub-Saharan Africa, Europe and Greece. This unique relationship between people and cranes has been represented in ancient paintings, other art forms and folklore. In zoos, cranes are charismatic birds that are popular with visitors while serving as iconic conservation ambassadors. In many parts of the world cranes are the flagship species for wetland and waterbird conservation.

Wattled crane, © San Diego Zoo Global

By Michael Mace, Warren Lynch, Claire Mirande, Nucharin Songsasen, 12 CONNECT August 2013 Barbara Durrant, Fred Beall, John Azua and Andrew Schuman s increasing environmental pressures are placed on crane wattled cranes is its naturally protracted breeding season compared populations and their habitats, there is growing need to to other crane species. Amonitor and respond to key threats to protect wild popula- Hooded cranes are more challenging considering the current tions. Eleven of the fifteen species of cranes are considered threat- population consists of 25 (13.12). Zoo kept specimens have been re- ened under the International Union for Conservation of Nature productively inconsistent which has led to a precipitous decline in (IUCN) Red List. While conservation efforts to stabilize wild popu- the population over the past 15 years. This species is small in stature lations are ongoing, the sustainability of zoological populations is and has a shy, nervous personality. It is cold tolerant and ideally being concurrently developed. suited for northern latitude zoos with abundant landscaping that During the 2011 Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) provides privacy. Several aviculture techniques, such as, use of ar- Mid-Year Meetings in Chattanooga, Tenn., the Gruiformes Taxon tificial light to extend seasonal light cycles, artificial insemination, Advisory Group (TAG) and the Conservation Centers for Species multiple clutching, artificial incubation, puppet rearing, and surro- Survival (C2S2) began a collaborative program to develop an gate incubation and parenting have appeared helpful in producing intensified and comprehensive model program for sustainable offspring. Some of these techniques are being utilized and evaluated management of zoological populations by establishing regional by two C2S2 partner institutions for the benefit of this species. crane breeding centers within AZA. At the time the C2S2 core For the long term, and to achieve sustainability, the AZA popula- membership consisted of AZA’s five largest facilities based on acre- tions of wattled and hooded cranes are intended as part of the cap- age (San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Smithsonian Conservation Biology tive Global Species Management Plan (GSMP). Regional zoo popula- Institute, White Oak Conservation Center, Fossil Rim Conservation tions will need to be co-managed with periodic exchange of birds to Center and The Wilds). The whooping crane (Grus Americana) is the maintain levels of diversity targeted for sustainability. If improved only captive breeding program for cranes in North America that representation of existing founders in key zoo regions is achieved is achieving targeted goals of preserving 90 percent of the genetic – viability is possible. The C2S2 program could reduce expenses diversity for 100 years. This level of success can be attributed to for overall management within the taxa by reducing the number intensive management at a few core breeding centers. The C2S2 of cranes imported from other regions around the world. Financial program builds on lessons learned and is applying and testing savings would include transportation costs, pre-shipment medical them on two sustainability-challenged captive crane populations tests, permit fees and minimizing risks associated with interna- identified by the Gruiformes TAG. The species include the wattled tional transports. All of these aspects align expertise, resources, and crane (Bugeranus carunculatus) from Ethiopia to South Africa and research while working directly with the goals of the TAG. the hooded crane (Grus monacha) from Siberia, China and Japan. The whooping crane, an endangered species endemic to North C2S2 breeding centers are located in varying climates within the America, had been extirpated over large portions of its historic country and the two species were assigned to bio climatic locations range due to habitat loss and overhunting. By 1941, only 16 whooping that are similar to their home ranges. cranes remained in the Aransas-Wood Buffalo Population (AWBP), This centers approach is advantageous because there is ad- which is the only whooping crane population that persisted in the equate, flexible space, often isolated areas away from public activi- wild. Through both in-situ and ex-situ conservation efforts, and ties. These facilities can maintain multiple pairs and rely on staff protection under both the Endangered Species Act and the Canadian with experience and specialized training. All partners benefit – Species at Risk Act the number of whooping cranes has increased zoos continue to exhibit these spectacular species and the breeding to roughly 500 plus individuals as of 2011. Captive propagation centers have access to a number of cranes to enhance reproduction of whooping cranes began in 1967 when eggs were removed from via multiple approaches. In parallel, the centers rely on research- wild nests in the AWBP and sent to the Patuxent Wildlife Research ers to collect more scientific information including refinement of Center (PWRC) in Laurel, Md., to establish a captive flock. Egg col- artificial insemination techniques, semen cryopreservation, hor- lection from the wild continued until the 1990s with impacts on the monal evaluations of pairs, and exogenous hormonal induction of wild population monitored. As of 2011, 163 whooping cranes were breeding. For the whooping crane, the models address both in-situ housed in five captive breeding centers throughout North America. and ex-situ field conservation. The program will create additional Through the combined effort of these centers, 18 chicks, on average, opportunities for other zoos to send their staff for comprehensive are released into the reintroduced populations each year. Because training at one of the breeding centers. The crane facilities are all living whooping cranes are believed to be descended from eight designed to accommodate other large terrestrial avian species. founders, optimizing genetic management and reproductive suc- This flexibility will be beneficial in the future when current crane cess of the captive population across all captive centers is crucial. populations are stabilized and additional challenging avian species The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) and are targeted. PWRC initiated collaborative research aimed at understanding re- To implement this program expeditiously, the Species Survival productive biology and the factors influencing reproduction. The Plan® (SSP) coordinators for hooded and wattled cranes promptly objectives of this research include: (1) assessing impact of hetero- identified appropriate individuals that were sent to the C2S2 cen- zygosity on seminal traits of individuals housed at PWRC and (2) ters. This collaboration was essential. There are currently 58 (31.27) identifying the underlying causes of suboptimal fertility (60 percent wattled cranes in the SSP with only six surviving offspring in the compared to 95 percent observed in AWBP) observed in captive past five years. There is a need to improve fertility and the species birds. This research has the potential to help establish and imple- has not responded adequately to current artificial insemination ment management strategies to increase reproduction in genetically techniques. The population has been aging and there is a need valuable, but currently nonproductive birds. The consequences to increase the population size and to create additional exhibit continued, page 15 spaces. One advantage for testing a new breeding approach in the

August 2013 CONNECT 13

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• • • Imagining the Alter NET ives • • • 14 CONNECT August 2013 could be significant in markedly increasing the number and ge- with the commitment of supporting zoos will allow for escalat- netic diversity of birds produced and available for reintroduction, ing our understanding of the species. These advancements will thereby improving the chances of creating self-sustaining popula- ultimately benefit the species and zoological collections around tions of this iconic North American species. the world. Through the commitments of key people and organi- The San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research and the zations, important steps to bring this model from concept to ap- International Crane Foundation conducted a joint project to evalu- plication were achieved in less than one year. As the conservation ate reproductive and stress hormone levels in whooping cranes. arena is constantly changing, some of the threatened species we The specific aim is to compare the hormone profiles of reproduc- are working with in zoos may become candidates for scaled up ef- tive and non-reproductive individuals and to document hormonal forts and release back into the wild as has been done for whooping changes in relation to oviposition. The possible effects of stress cranes, California and Andean condors and Guam rails. on reproductive hormones and behavior, as well as reproductive success, will provide a foundation for testing methods to enhance Michael Mace is the Curator of Birds breeding management of this species. In addition, the results at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park of the study will inform the future use of assisted reproduction including artificial insemination, semen cryopreservation and Warren Lynch is the Supervisory Biologist at the exogenous hormonal induction of breeding. Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute C2S2 also designed and implemented its first Crane Artificial Claire Mirande is the Senior Director, Conservation Insemination Workshop that was hosted by SCBI in Front Royal, Networking at the International Crane Foundation Va., in April 2012. Workshop participants received classroom instruction on semen collection, evaluation processing and artificial Nucharin Songsasen is a Research Biologist at the insemination. Participants then practiced these avicultural tech- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute niques on SCBI’s white-naped and hooded crane collection, all the while receiving continued guidance from experienced instructors. Barbara S. Durrant, PhD, is the Henshaw Director, Reproductive Physiology at San Diego Zoo Global’s Other shared topics included sperm cryopreservation, egg sexing, Institute for Conservation Research and fecal hormonal analysis. Collectively, these efforts illustrate the power for sharing in- Fred Beall is the General Curator at Zoo New England formation, expertise and resources. As wild populations decline, zoological collections become increasingly valuable. Developing John V. Azua is the Curator of Birds at the Denver Zoo new and innovative species management models for a variety of Andrew Schuman is an Avian Specialist species is paramount for conservation. In some cases, centralizing at White Oak Conservation Center resources, expertise, scientific techniques and training combined

August 2013 CONNECT 15 BEYOND SUSTAINABILITY How to Create Protected Areas and Provide for Exhibits in the Future by Promoting a Socially and Environmentally Beneficial Aquarium Fish Trade

16 CONNECT August 2013 By Beth Firchau Scott Dowd, MSc, and Michael Tlusty, PhD ustainability, or improving efficiency thus ensur- by volume. Though annual capture of the cardinal tetra alone is ing long term success, is the fundamental way estimated to be around 40,000,000 fish, long-term research on the Sthe aquarium and zoo industry strives to do fishery indicates that it has a low negative impact on the long term business. We work to ensure that the economics, stability of the wild fish population. ecological balance, planning, development and infra- The ornamental fishery in this region began in the 1950s and structure, innovation, and education of our institu- intensive study of it began in the 1990s. Today, the fishery contin- tions and the environments we replicate exist now, ues to maintain a place in the global market of the fishes exported. and for future generations. Over the years, research has noted that this particular fishery supports positive socioeconomic and environmental outcomes for Nowhere has this been more in the forefront than in discussions the region, too. In this region, where opportunities for livelihoods of sustaining our live collections. While historically, we have col- are scarce, at least 60 percent of incomes come from the export lected animals from the wild, recent moves towards sustainability of live fishes for the global aquarium fish trade. The fishing com- have focused around breeding as the sole source of animals with munity involves the majority of the residents directly or indirectly periodic inoculations of new genes from meticulously crafted throughout a tropical river-forest area larger than the state of import and wild collection agreements and governmental confis- Pennsylvania. cations. This is true for many of the iconic species in our institu- The fishing communities have known for generations that tions, but for fishes, we cannot, and should not, solely rely on although stocks for marketable species, such as the cardinal captive breeding. Firstly, the diversity of fishes in our collections tetra, are quite robust and replenish annually, they are also quite is immense, with more than 2,600 marine and freshwater species sensitive to environmental conditions. Deforestation and other combined. The space needed to breed that many species and in the destructive resource extractive practices could likely decimate the numbers needed for exhibit exceeds facility footprints and bud- ornamental fishery. However, as long as these communities con- gets. Furthermore, many of the species in collections have never tinue to have access to the aquarium fish market and the export been bred in captivity. Thus, space and skillsets are not up to the market for fish remains strong, they will be inseparably dependent task. But the need for animals exists, and it is recognized that the on the environment. Their regional protection goes far beyond the approach to ensuring species availability for aquatic exhibits into cardinal tetra, extending to the entire ecosystem. If environmental the future must be anchored in multi-pronged creative, alternative conditions continue to be maintained, geared toward maintaining approaches. the most productive wild-capture ornamental fishery, the entire In 2009, the aquatic community reviewed its current collec- ecology and biodiversity of the river-forest will be maintained as tion status, envisioned its future and published an action plan well. The countless species that depend on this ecosystem (the river that would facilitate an organized, diversified effort to providing dolphins, primates, macaws, etc.) will benefit from the protec- exhibit specimens. In the Action Plan, several traditional and tion by the residents. Based on the long history of this fishery, the cutting edge approaches were addressed as means to sustain our fishing communities will continue to be very effective stewards collections. One of the most exciting cutting-edge opportunities and protect the region from the ravages that scar so much of the is the creation of extractive reserves. Extractive reserves identify Amazon basin today. large tracts of marine and freshwater habitats that can be managed In recent years, similar management systems that realize so- and effectively protected for the purpose of regulated collecting by cioeconomic and environmental benefits as well as financial gain stakeholders. They build on the positive social and environmental have been discovered in other regions of the tropics. In further aspects of the ornamental fish trade. This is a major step to ecosys- developing the Brazilian system as a model, Project Piaba research- tem sustainability because of the benefits to the environment, the ers have found that existing ornamental fisheries can be relatively local economy, and the community. The extractive reserves con- easily adapted to maximize sustainable off-take, connect residents cept flies in the face of traditional views of tightly managed aquatic to the environment, and create protected areas. sanctuaries that preserve populations rather than manage them for India is an emerging entity in the global aquarium fish trade. specific purposes. However, to fully implement the sustainability Currently, 114 ornamental species from the Kerala part of the of the extractive reserve, a focus must be placed on supporting Western Ghats are being exported for the aquarium trade, an in- the resident human population and culture of the area. Extractive crease from a dozen only a decade ago. There has been an initial reserves are not merely about creating a low impact supply of ani- push by the Indian government to conduct captive rearing of many mals for our exhibits. It is about creating a well-managed and high of India’s most marketable species. Business plans are being geared (positive) impact socio-ecological system that accentuates the to be competitive in the global market, even if it means compet- benefits of an intact, bio diverse ecosystem, while simultaneously ing against the country’s own biological resources. However, even limiting any negative impact. While Project Piaba is not a true ex- while this momentum is building, the Indian government, univer- tractive reserve, it is a fishery model that has a 20-plus year history sities, and NGOs, have invited Project Piaba to establish partner- as a sustainability success story in Brazil. Lessons learned from ships with the goal of adapting the successful Rio Negro model Project Piaba can enlighten us as we move forward in our unique in the Western Ghats region to create socioeconomic benefits and sustainability initiatives. protect critical habitat. Scientists within India are working to Project Piaba started as an academic study, looking at the com- analyze the trade to better understand where potential problems mercial ornamental fishery centered at Barcelos, Brazil in the may be, and how they can improve the fishery for the benefit of the mid-Rio Negro. The cardinal tetra (Paracheirodon axelrodi) is the environment via protectionism from fishing. primary species fished, representing roughly 85 percent of exports continued, page 18

August 2013 CONNECT 17 Recently, a pilot program was proposed enlisting resident future of the region in which the fishery exists. The Piaba model is households as small scale fish collectors. Collection households proving to be applicable for other necessary fisheries as well. It is were selected in areas where there was need for environmental proof that a balance can be struck between ecological and cultural awareness and protectionism abutting borders of traditional pro- considerations and supply and demand with a result that stocks tected areas (national parks) where boundaries were delineated our exhibits and gives back to humanity and nature. by rivers and streams. Researchers will engage with residents to measure changes in the collectors’ household wellbeing and Beth Firchau is Curator of Fishes/Dive Operations increase environmental stewardship to get metrics to determine Supervisor at the Virginia Aquarium success. It is hoped that by giving residents motivation to steward & Marine Science Center local resources, the discrepancy of land use and degradation of resources would lessen. A conservation “buffer zone” would be cre- Scott Dowd, MSC, is a Senior Aquarist at the New ated around the traditional protected lands. A connection with the England Aquarium and Executive Director profits of the aquarium fish trade would connect them closer to the for Project Piaba protection of the habitat that provides the fishery. Funding sources for the project are now being investigated and Indian researchers Michael Tlusty, PhD, is the Director of are anxious to begin the work. Ocean Sustainability Science If the Indian effort can support such collaboration as the Project at the New England Aquarium Piaba model, the ecological, economic, and humanitarian gains could be impressive. Preserving cultures, poverty alleviation and ecological protection would be the exchange for maintaining a fishery for trade and education at public aquarium facilities. The Piaba effort establishes a win-win approach to supply and demand through the effective management of truly natural resources. Sustainability is a journey we travel every day. The Aquatic Sustainability Action Plan established the road map by which we travel. Having the creativity and flexibility to spring from the established path to develop unique strategies based on traditional concepts is the key to our collective success in collection management. While not a true extractive reserve in the traditional sense, Project Piaba provides a model for developing important fishery sources for our collections and ensuring the cultural and economic © Gary Jones

18 CONNECT August 2013 August 2013 CONNECT 19 A NEW DAY (AND PLACE) FOR TURTLES

The Turtle Survival Alliance’s Turtle Survival Center © Cris Hagen

20 CONNECT August 2013 By Rick Hudson and Dwight Lawson, PhD he Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA) operates under Impact on Sustainability of AZA a singular, overarching commitment: zero turtle Populations Textinctions in the 21st century. Originally orga- Nowhere will this be more evident than the impact on the sustain- nized as an International Union for Conservation of ability of AZA managed turtle and tortoise programs. Currently Nature (IUCN) partnership in 2001 in response to the the Chelonian Advisory Group (ChAG) manages 39 species – the Asian turtle crisis, the organization has since grown most programs of any Taxon Advisory Group (TAG), and a poi- into a diverse and highly effective global network gnant reminder of the threats facing turtles globally. Many of the that inspires, catalyzes and facilitates turtle conserva- ChAG programs currently rely on the participation of non-AZA tion. Based out of the Fort Worth Zoo, in Fort Worth, partners, or will depend on the importation of new founder stock Texas, the TSA now operates independently as a for sustainability. TSC populations will augment captive programs nonprofit, with a 14-person Board of Directors, an for 17 existing managed species, and allow development of seven annual budget that exceeds $1 million (U.S.), and 15 recommended new programs that are contingent on new potential employees worldwide. We have over 700 members, founders. With the advent of the TSC and its eventual affiliation including 65 Association of Zoos and Aquariums with AZA, we hope to push seven or more Red programs to Yellow (AZA) institutions that provide substantial support to or Green. Aside from the obvious benefit of expanding the founder TSA’s field and captive programs. Our strong tie with base for many programs, the TSC will allow the buildup of F1 the zoo community is exemplified by the Fort Worth populations, assuring that a broader diversity of founder lines are Zoo hosting our home offices and providing admin- retained. Asian box turtles of the genus Cuora, in particular stand istrative support. The TSA now supports or manages to benefit. The zoo population has few founders, and with 12 of the conservation, research and recovery programs in known 13 species ranked critically endangered by the International nine countries throughout Asia, Madagascar, Belize, Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), this is the most Colombia and Senegal. Even with these range coun- threatened group of turtles in the world. The TSA has already try efforts, some of the most critically endangered amassed several groups of these species, and their offspring will species of turtles and tortoises simply won’t persist be crucial to the species’ management and their ultimate survival. without well-managed ex-situ populations. Impact on Species Survival The TSC Collection Plan is based on the most recent data avail- Launching the Turtle Survival Center able on Asian turtles and tortoises, including key workshops held As habitats shrink and the demand for turtles for food, traditional in Singapore and China in 2011. Seven species of tortoises and 20 medicines and pets continues to escalate, the sad reality is that a species of freshwater turtles – primarily Asian – have been care- growing number of species, at least for the foreseeable future, have fully selected for inclusion based on the critical need for captive little chance for survival in the wild. For these species we launched breeding for their survival and their suitability to the moderate the Turtle Survival Center (TSC) in 2012. Located on a 50 acre coastal climate of South Carolina. Four of the tortoises and 17 of the property in the mild, coastal climate of the low country of South turtle species are ranked by the IUCN Red List as being Critically Carolina, the site already has much of the infrastructure needed Endangered. Nine are identified on the list of the World’s 25+ Most for a turtle conservation breeding center, including a modern vet- Endangered Tortoises and Freshwater Turtles, as released by the erinary clinic and fenced ponds. Turtle Conservation Coalition in 2011. These numbers speak con- Following a successful fund-raising campaign launched at the vincingly of the TSC’s eventual impact on survival for many of the 2012 AZA Annual Conference in Phoenix, Ariz., and highlighted most endangered chelonians in the world. by San Diego Zoo Global’s $100,000 challenge, the TSA has raised We are seeing the rise of more spaces and programs for breed- $920,000 toward a five-year goal of 1.6 million dollars. AZA institu- ing and managing species as our industry and the broader con- tions have contributed nearly half of these funds to date, including servation community recognize the relevance and increasing major gifts from Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)/Bronx Zoo importance of captive populations and their long-term stability. ($50,000) and Detroit Zoological Institute ($60,000). We are now Along the lines of The National Elephant Center, C2R2 and other in full swing developing the TSC, and consolidating the TSA’s ani- focused efforts to improve population sustainability, the Turtle mal collection at the South Carolina facility. Three full time staff Survival Center stands to be a line in the sand between turtles and live on site and construction and renovation work has been moving extinction. at a steady pace all summer. New facilities include a tortoise barn, a quarantine facility, a complex for forest-dwelling species and Rick Hudson is a Conservation Biologist several greenhouses. These facilities will provide space to hold at the Fort Worth Zoo our core collection, but we will need to expand rapidly as the collection grows. These are exciting times for the TSA as we work to Dwight Lawson is the Deputy Director develop the Center while maintaining critical support to our field at Zoo Atlanta programs. And as challenging as this undertaking is, the decision was made easy by one overriding fact: we simply didn’t have a choice. We take our commitment to preventing turtle extinctions very seriously, and the TSC will, in time, transform the face of the TSA as well as our ability to impact turtle conservation.

August 2013 CONNECT 21 22 CONNECT August 2013 MEMBER NEWS member news

NEW PRESIDENT TAKES Laboratory on Summerland Key in the HELM OF MOTE MARINE Florida Keys, and a second public out- LABORATORY AND reach exhibit dedicated to coral reefs in AQUARIUM AND BOARD OF the Eco-Discovery Center in Key West. TRUSTEES ALSO ELECTS NEW During the official hand-off at the OFFICERS Board meeting, outgoing Chairman Dr. Michael P. Crosby assumed the Robert E. Carter led the board in a leadership of Mote Marine Laboratory unanimous resolution recognizing Dr. and Aquarium in Sarasota, Fla., on 16 Mahadevan for his outstanding tenure May 2013, following the nonprofit or- at Mote. “The resolution documents ganization’s annual Board meeting. He the incredible record of success that is taking the role of president and CEO Kumar has created at Mote,” Carter said. following the retirement of Dr. Kumar “Many of us in this room have watched Mahadevan, whose new position will be him take charge of Mote and move it to president emeritus as he continues to be where it is today and we can’t thank him an advocate and ambassador of the or- enough.” ganization, assisting in promoting and As he handed off the gavel to Dr. developing support for Mote’s world- Crosby, Dr. Mahadevan told the board Dr. Michael P. Crosby class research and education programs. that the organization’s success de- Dr. Mahadevan led the organization for pended, in-part, on them. “We’re in a friends, along with this great Board. 27 years. great position and I’m so pleased that “Most marine labs around the world As new President and CEO, Dr. you’ve chosen Michael as my succes- are owned by government and universi- Crosby will oversee the Lab’s ground- sor,” he said. “I think it’s one of the best ties, and few are independent like Mote breaking research programs that take things you’ve done. It’s wonderful and I – able to respond to emerging needs in place in Southwest Florida and around think he won’t miss a beat. Please give the marine environment. Each of our the world, along with the organization’s him the same support and friendship scientists, educators and aquarists are efforts to educate and inform the public you’ve given me.” superstars in their own right. We must and policy makers about the marine New Board Chairman Eugene empower each of them to make the most environment. Beckstein said moving forward with of their skills and abilities. Mote is em- Scientists at Mote Marine Laboratory Mote’s 2020 Vision and Strategic Plan bedded in our community, and our staff have been performing world-class ma- will be key to the Lab’s continued suc- and volunteers go above and beyond. rine research studies since the Lab was cess. “One of the single most important Mote is indeed a rare gem. I’m confident created and operated in one room with challenges we face is to ensure the suc- that with the continued counsel and en- one boat in 1955. Today, the Lab’s main cess of our 2020 plan,” he said. “We are gagement of the Board and the contin- Sarasota campus sits on 10.5-acres on off to a good start and the pace of the ued support of the community, Mote’s City Island and includes the popular plan will increase dramatically through best days are truly to come.” Aquarium at Mote Marine Laboratory, 2013 and into 2014. Let us move forward which is one of the most-visited attrac- together and help Mote continue its ad- NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR tions in Southwest Florida. The Lab’s vancement and achievement as a world- TO LEAD ROGER WILLIAMS annual operating budget is nearly $20 class marine research enterprise.” PARK ZOO million and there are 192 staff mem- Dr. Crosby said he was humbled and The trustees of the Rhode Island bers, including 31 PhD-level scientists honored at being appointed to lead Mote Zoological Society (RIZS) announced who are leaders in their fields. The Lab’s Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. “I’m that they have selected Jeremy estimated economic impact to the com- sincerely grateful for the trust and sup- Goodman, DVM, as the new executive munity is in excess of $70 million. port you all have provided,” he said. director of the Roger Williams Park Zoo Mote also has six additional campuses “Mote has grown a great deal since Genie and the Society in Providence, R.I. RIZS including a 200-acre Aquaculture Park Clark started her one-room lab. There supports and manages the Zoo, which in eastern Sarasota County, a research is no doubt that Kumar deserves the is owned by the City of Providence. A field station on Pine Island in Charlotte lion’s share of credit for what Mote has seasoned zoo professional, Goodman Harbor, satellite offices in Punta Gorda become. Today, I am lucky to have both has over 15 years of experience as a zoo Genie and Kumar as my mentors and and Boca Grande, a Tropical Research continued, page 24

August 2013 CONNECT 23 MEMBER NEWS

veterinarian, assistant director, and di- administrative projects. Palumbo also conservation programs, the Audubon rector. He began his new role on 1 July. noted that Goodman’s enthusiasm for Species Survival Center and the care and John Palumbo, the publisher and Roger Williams Park Zoo and its reputa- feeding of 1,500 animals representing president of Rhode Island Monthly and a tion as an outstanding mid-sized zoo more than 350 species, many of them Society trustee, led the executive search. add to the excitement among the trust- rare or endangered. “We were impressed by Jeremy’s breadth ees, staff and volunteers in welcoming Hamilton, who has a Master’s of of experience and his significant ac- their new director to Providence. landscape architecture degree from the complishments at the Turtle Back Zoo, University of Texas at Arlington, ran his JOEL HAMILTON IS THE where he transformed a struggling zoo own landscape architectural firm from NEW VICE PRESIDENT AND into an AZA-accredited premier attrac- 2001-to-2008, specializing in zoo plan- GENERAL CURATOR AT THE tion in the state of New Jersey,” said ning and exhibit design. He has created AUDUBON ZOO Palumbo. master plans and designed exhibits for a Goodman’s experience ranges from Audubon Nature Institute welcomed number of zoos across the nation. master planning, strategic planning and Joel Hamilton as the new vice president In 1981, Hamilton earned a biol- all aspects of zoo management includ- and general curator of Audubon Zoo in ogy degree from Quinnipiac College ing crisis management (his efforts dur- New Orleans, La. Hamilton comes to in Connecticut and two years later re- ing Hurricane Sandy were recognized in Audubon with a long history of zoo-received a degree in exotic animal train- Newsweek magazine). Under his leader- lated experience, including the last four ing and management from Moorpark ship, Turtle Back achieved increases in years as zoo director at the Salisbury College in California. From 1983-to-85, both revenue and attendance each year. Zoological Park in Salisbury, Md. Hamilton worked as a veterinary assis- He oversaw 23 construction projects Hamilton, a licensed landscape ar- tant in Connecticut. In 1985, he joined totaling $45 million including animal chitect, oversaw staffing, strategic the Dallas Zoo Bird Department, where exhibits, concessions, attractions and planning, finances, conservation edu- he served as a keeper and later as su- cation, marketing and pervisor of birds in the Wilds of Africa community relations section. Hamilton also worked at the at the 14-acre facility Roger Williams Park Zoo as curator of in Salisbury, the larg- the Australasia and Tropical America ex- est city in Maryland’s hibits. Eastern Shore region. Hamilton has participated in several “I am thrilled that field research projects, delivering the Joel has joined Audubon Dallas Zoo’s first Andean condor egg Nature Institute’s team to the Los Angeles Zoo for inclusion in as general curator at the Condor Project. He lived in a tent Audubon Zoo,’’ said in the Amazon forest of Peru while col- Ron Forman, president lecting data for a population study of and CEO. “Joel’s exper- understory birds and traveled to Cuba tise in zoo management, to assist with a field population census animal research and of the Cuban Amazon parrot and the landscape architecture Cuban crane. will serve us well as we launch exciting new NATIONAL AQUARIUM projects in the coming HIRES FIRST EVER CHIEF years that will maintain CONSERVATION OFFICER our position at the fore- The National Aquarium in Baltimore, front as an innovator in Md., a leading cultural attraction and family entertainment economic engine anchoring Baltimore’s and exhibit design.’’ Inner Harbor for more than 30 years, At Audubon, announced the appointment of Eric Hamilton will supervise Schwaab as its first ever senior vice a staff of about 85, over- president and chief conservation officer seeing animal acquisi- (CCO). With a realignment of priorities tions, education and that emphasizes an updated conserva-

24 CONNECT August 2013 member news tion mission, Schwaab’s appointment represents the Aquarium’s new dedi- cation to serve as a national leader in ocean preservation and environmental stewardship. “With the confirmation of Eric Schwaab as our chief conservation officer, we are setting an agenda for National Aquarium’s future,” said John Racanelli, National Aquarium CEO. “We are dedicated to our mission of inspiring conservation of the world’s aquatic treasures. Eric’s wealth of experience and passion will help us expand and better promote conservation action to protect the ocean, our planet’s life support system.” As CCO, Schwaab, who assumed re- Jeremy Goodman Eric Schwaab sponsibilities 1 July, will provide strategic vision and leadership for the fishing businesses with conservation extensively with legislative leaders and National Aquarium’s Conservation and goals, and efforts to improve coastal other agencies to support important Science Division, a team of 130 profes- and ocean habitat conservation. state conservation initiatives, including sionals, engaging in initiatives ranging The National Aquarium is changing Chesapeake Bay restoration, forest and from field conservation and biological the way the world views conservation by park land conservation and fisheries re- programs to legislative advocacy and instilling a sense of urgency on issues building. Schwaab’s 20 plus years of animal rescue. that affect aquatic ecosystems world- conservation stewardship in Maryland Schwaab most recently served wide, including the Chesapeake Bay. also include service as director of the as acting assistant secretary for con- In the ocean policy arena, the National Fisheries Service (1999-2003); director of servation and management for the Aquarium has recently focused its ef- the Forest, Wildlife & Heritage Service U.S. Department of Commerce, forts on a ban on the sale and trade of (1995-1999); director of the Forest Service National Oceanic and Atmospheric shark fins, offshore wind development, (1992-1995); and chief of resource man- Administration (NOAA). In this role plastic and beverage container deposits agement for Maryland Forest & Park he worked closely with Congress, other and watershed conservation. Service (1989-1992). From 2003 into agency leaders, partner organizations “Through its current work in conser- 2007, Schwaab served as resource di- and local communities to develop poli- vation and science, National Aquarium rector for the Association of Fish and cies and take conservation action to en- is redefining the role of public aquaria Wildlife Agencies, coordinating conser- sure sustainable federal fisheries, pro- as catalysts for tangible change in how vation work on behalf of fish and wild- mote coastal stewardship and enhance people care for oceans and aquatic sys- life agencies across North America. protection of ocean habitats. Previously, tems,” said Schwaab. “The Aquarium’s Schwaab, who currently serves as the as assistant administrator for fisheries role as a trusted source of information NOAA Administrator designee on the at NOAA from 2010-to-2012, Schwaab and its ability to communicate with mil- National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, directed the National Marine Fisheries lions of people annually provide signifi- holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in biol- Service. He was responsible for science, cant opportunities to influence public ogy from McDaniel College and a Master management and conservation of fed- policy and personal behavior on behalf of Arts degree in geography and envi- eral fisheries, marine mammals, sea of sustainable ocean conservation. I look ronmental planning from Towson turtles and other protected resources forward to leading this charge.” University. He also completed a leader- within the United States. Schwaab led Prior to his work with NOAA, ship program for senior executives in the agency’s national requirement to Schwaab spent three years as deputy state and local government at the end overfishing, the implementation of secretary of the Maryland Department Kennedy School of Government, “catch share” management programs to of Natural Resources, where he worked Harvard University. better align the interests of commercial

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26 CONNECT August 2013

IT’S A BOY! IT’S A GIRL! IT’S A LITTER! Why the AZA Wildlife Contraception Center Wants Your Birth Announcements

ustainable population management depends on To hasten time to Suprelorin reversal, the WCC now recom- cooperation among many Association of Zoos mends implant removal, which can be facilitated by careful in- Sand Aquariums (AZA) programs. AZA Species sertion and choice of placement site. The WCC produced an in- Survival Plans® (SSP) coordinators work closely with structional video for zoo vets showing Suprelorin implants being the AZA Population Management Center (PMC) to inserted on the inner side of a lioness’ rear leg. A 2013 companion develop breeding and transfer plans for their animals. video illustrates the implants being removed from that lioness plus Since only a subset of animals in a population is removal from the inner arm of a callimico. Both videos are avail- recommended for breeding each year, reproduction able on the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians website and must be prevented in the rest. Contraception, rather the Association of Zoo Veterinary Technicians forum. than separation, is often preferred, since it allows The WCC recognizes the urgent need for more accurate esti- animals to remain in natural social groups. The AZA mates of reversibility rate (the percentage of females that regain Wildlife Contraception Center (WCC) provides the fertility) and time to reversal. But to address this information gap, most current information about safe and effective we need institutions to submit reversal data, so we can generate products. Ideally, animal managers also need to be more meaningful statistics. able to predict when contraceptive suppression will Please send birth announcements to [email protected]. reverse.

Although we have more than ten years of data on Suprelorin® effi- cacy, data on time to reversal are lacking. While the two Suprelorin formulations provide a minimum of either six or 12 months of contraception, in practice the actual time of suppression is quite vari- able. For example, at one extreme, a jaguar first conceived seven years after placement of a 12-month implant, and continuous hormone monitoring in a Northern sea otter showed suppression until she conceived after more than five years. However, in some cases reversal occurs rapidly. A golden-lion tamarin conceived just one year after her six-month implant was placed, and an Asian small- clawed otter conceived almost immediately after being introduced to a male about 15 months after treatment. The remainder of the 60 plus documented Suprelorin reversals in our database lie some- where in between. These examples illustrate the challenges program leaders face when trying to time breeding recommendations for animals previously implanted with Suprelorin. Defining reversibility can be complicated. Although birth of live offspring is the gold standard, not all previously contra- cepted females are placed with a fertile male. In such cases, other points in the reproductive process can be monitored, e.g., estrous behavior, hormone monitoring of follicle growth or ovulation, pregnancy diagnosis, or stillbirth. In males, presence of sperm can document the end of suppression. Such data can also show that a female is in the process of recovering from reproductive suppression. For instance, in Suprelorin-treated lions there is evidence that the pituitary hormone that stimulates follicle growth (which can stimulate estrous behavior) recovers before the hormone necessary for ovulation.

28 CONNECT August 2013

GREEN TALES Sustainable operations planning

Why Sustainable Operations? What Do I Work On First? It makes sense for the planet (wildlife and wild places), the Choose two or three categories/significant impacts to work on. people (quality of life) and the profit (productivity, budget). Set specific and measurable goals/targets. Example: reduce energy usage by five percent by 2015 date using a baseline of 2011. How Do I Get Started? Example: establish a staff awareness program by 2014. Next, First, organize a Green Team with employees from every de- select strategies to meet the goal/target. Example: replace in- partment and at every level. Next, adopt an environmental candescent and T-12 lighting with T-8 or LED. Example: plan policy that states your commitment to sustainable operations. and do an Earth Day event for staff on green practices. How Does It Work? How Do I Know How I’m Doing? First, determine your significant impacts on the environment Monitoring and measuring progress and communication are by thinking about your activities, products, or services that keys to a successful sustainability plan. Be sure to measure can affect the environment. Then collect data on the quantity all significant impacts including energy, water/wastewater, and cost for the categories of energy, water/wastewater, waste, waste, chemicals and fuel usage. Also report on status of con- chemicals and fuels. Next evaluate your green practices in

green tales struction, building management, purchasing, awareness, and the areas of construction, building management, purchasing, innovation. These can be in the form of internal or external awareness (staff, visitors, and vendors) and innovation (part- audits, progress reports to management and annual report to nerships, community outreach). staff, board, members, and the public. How Do I Know What’s Significant? Are There Any Tools Available? Evaluate each category listed above based on quantity, legal The AZA Green Award has the essential elements of a plan and requirement, current efforts, savings, and common sense. Use the AZA Green Guide contains ideas and strategies for what this information to rank and choose the categories that are your organization can implement in your site specific plan. your most significant impacts on the environment. Example: The Green Guide volume I and II will be available this fall on categories that rank five or more on a scale of one to seven are www.aza.org. selected as significant.

30 CONNECT August 2013

BIRTHS & HATCHINGS

VIOLACEOUS EUPHONIA AND ing. A critical component in accom- Association of Zoos and Aquariums BANANA SLUG SUCCESS AT plishing these goals is the incorporation (AZA) and follows breeding recom- STEINHART AQUARIUM of chilled running water with an at- mendations. The newest addition to the Steinhart Aquarium at the California tached mister system in the exhibit. The troop, born on 9 April 2013, belongs to Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, water is kept at 60-to-65 degrees F and Martijn and Maya. The weight, sex, and Calif., recently had breeding success is plumbed to run constantly through name of the baby are still unknown at with two interesting species: violaceous the substrate of the exhibit, creating a this time, but average newborn hama- euphonia (Euphonia violacea) and banana cool microhabitat. The attached mister dryas’ weigh around 600-900g. Due to slugs (Ariolimax). This is the first time system runs for short bursts throughout the dynamics of this troop, zookeepers either species has bred successfully at the day, delivering higher humidity reg- are only observing at this time and are al- Steinhart Aquarium. ularly. The exhibit aims to mirror a slice lowing nature to take its course so as not From May through December of of the redwood forest, complete with to bring any stress among the troop(s) 2012, ten parent-reared violaceous eu- redwood debris and live native forbs and during this very special time. Baby ba- phonia were successfully reproduced in ferns. These factors have led to a popula- boons are fairly altricial, meaning the the Osher Rainforests of the World exhibit. tion of slugs that are highly visible and mother will hold on to the infant for the Six of the offspring produced from the active. first few days while it builds its strength Aquarium’s breeding trio have found While apophallation has yet to be ob- up. As it gets bigger and stronger, other homes in several Association of Zoos served, the slugs have exhibited other members of Martijn’s troop will start to and Aquariums (AZA)-accredited insti- breeding behaviors and have reproduced hold and play with the baby. tutions that plan on breeding this color- on exhibit. Hatchling slugs are 1-to- Currently, the hamadryas baboon ful, melodic South American species. 2mm in in size and usually a darker population in the United States is in need Interestingly, while tracking plumage shade of grey. Their growth appears to of new bloodlines for breeding; there- changes, biologists noticed males had be slow, with the largest offspring at five fore, breeding concerns necessitated the white wing bars visible when fully feath- months old reaching about 25mm in importation of this troop to Oakland. ered in juvenile plumage. length and with the more typical banana According to Margaret Rousser, zoo- Since 2008 the Osher Rainforests of the yellow coloring. There are now an esti- logical manager, this new group of ba- World exhibit has been conducive to elic- mated twenty banana slug offspring on boons and their offspring are critical to iting significant breeding behavior in exhibit in addition to the twelve adults. revitalizing the genetics of hamadryas baboons in the U.S. six other neotropical passerine species, HAMADRYAS BABOON BORN “We are very excited to be playing including the Species Survival Plan® AT OAKLAND ZOO (SSP)-managed blue-gray tanager, silver- such an important role in the conserva- The Oakland Zoo in Oakland, Calif., an- beaked tanager, and turquoise tanager. tion of this species,” stated Rousser. nounced a new troop of hamadryas ba- In collaboration with other AZA facili- Oakland Zoo’s two troops of baboons boons has successfully been introduced ties, Steinhart Aquarium is committed enjoy eating fruits, vegetables, greens, and settled into the Baboon Cliffs exhibit. to the continued breeding of these and and special insect treats like walking Upon arrival, the troop of baboons other neotropical passerines. sticks. Zookeepers provide enrichment was made up of four: one male named Moving from rainforests to redwoods, throughout the Baboon Cliffs exhibit for Martijn, and three females named Maya, Steinhart Aquarium has had success ex- the animals to find and enjoy. Puzzle Maud, and Krista. However, the total hibiting and breeding California’s native feeders, a form of enrichment, are con- count of baboon residents has now in- banana slugs. The Animal Attraction ex- traptions the animals can play with creased by one, due to the arrival of a ba- hibit, opened in February 2012, explores and also be rewarded by treats inside. boon infant. Oakland Zoo has not had a the range of courtship and mating strate- According to zookeepers, the new male, baboon birth in more than twenty years. gies utilized in the animal kingdom. One Martijn has taking a particular liking There are now a total of two troops, with of the species highlighted in this exhibit to round shaped puzzle feeders that are ten baboons visible to guests. are the hermaphroditic banana slugs. filled with a variety of treats such as ba- Martijn is the newest troop leader Their story involves the mating strategy nanas, lettuce, and carrots. and Maya, Maud, and Krista range in of apophallation, where the slugs will The two troops of baboons, including age from eight years old to twelve years chew off the penis of their mate if unable the newborn, can be seen by the public old. They relocated to Oakland from the to disengage after exchanging sperm. at the Baboon Cliffs exhibit, located down Emmen Zoo in the Netherlands. The in- The banana slug exhibit was designed the hill from the African Veldt. The Baboon ternational move was facilitated by the to encourage high visibility and breed-

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Z O © , B A S , H E © oo akland s oto ph abboon quarium art h tein s ert pp u c ri August 2013 2013 August 34 page , continued A group of baboons is often referredA group of baboons to as a troop. They are generally 24-to-generally are They troop. a as to up weigh can and length in inches 30 to 40 pounds. Hamadryas baboons eat insects, and protein-rich vegetables, an active They have some red meat. to be around 30-to- lifestyle and live 40 years of age. Hamadryas baboons in the wild are found in Ethiopia, In Arabia, and Yemen. Somolia, Saudi in very the wild, baboons congregate During night. large groups to sleep at smaller into they separate the day, groups to forage for food. Throughout wor- hamadryas baboons were history, shipped by Egyptians as the incarna- tion of their god, Thoth, who is often depicted with the head of a baboon. exhibit opened in the fall of 2009Cliffs exhibit opened in the feet 8,100 square and is approximately - a cascading water in size. It includes a spaciousfall, climbing structures, to roam, a night area for the baboons and offices for Zoo staff. house facility, of the all ten Guests are able to observe viewing deck. baboons from a large BIRTHS & HATCHINGS

OMAHA’S HENRY DOORLY ZOO diet consists of ferns and broad-leaved ing facility since 2009,” said Karen Rice, AND AQUARIUM WELCOMES plants, but they are known to uproot carnivore supervisor at Nashville Zoo. PYGMY HIPPO CALF other swamp plants and graze on for- “These cubs will remain a part of the A male pygmy hippopotamus calf, est weeds. Pygmy hippos are listed as Association of Zoos and Aquariums born on 22 February, is now on dis- Endangered on the International Union (AZA) clouded leopard population as play at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red breeding cats, education or exhibit ani- Aquarium’s Lied Jungle® in Omaha, Neb. List. There are currently 27 individuals mals. Whatever role they play, they will The calf is currently on display with the at 13 Association of Zoos and Aquariums contribute to the ongoing conservation dam, Chomel, a 13-year-old hippo from (AZA)-accredited institutions. effort.” Clouded leopards are considered Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, Ill. The NASHVILLE ZOO ANNOUNCES endangered because of deforestation, sire is Scooby, a 22-year-old from Gladys BIRTHS OF THREE CLOUDED poaching and the pet trade. Nashville Porter Zoo in Brownsville, Texas, who has LEOPARDS been at Omaha’s Zoo and Aquarium since Zoo is a member of the Thailand Clouded Nashville Zoo in Nashville, Tenn., an- 1992. Pygmy hippos can weigh between Leopard Consortium, an ongoing col- nounced the births of two litters of eight-to-12 pounds at birth. Full grown, laboration with the National Zoo, Point clouded leopard cubs. On 26 March, Jing males can weigh up to 700 pounds and Defiance Zoo, Clouded Leopard Species Jai gave birth to one female cub and females up to 500 pounds. The pygmy Survival Plan® (SSP) and Zoological Park Baylie gave birth to one male and one hippo calf currently weighs 50 pounds. Organization of Thailand (ZPO) to de- female. All three are doing well and are Pygmy hippos are native to rainfor- velop a multi-faceted clouded leopard being hand-raised by the Zoo’s animal ests and swamplands in western Africa, conservation program that includes a vi- care staff. primarily Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea able self-sustaining captive population. “Nashville Zoo is a leader in clouded and Ivory Coast. They are considered sol- At just seven years old, this is Jing leopard conservation, with 18 clouded itary animals and spend about six hours Jai’s sixth litter. Both she and her mate leopards born at our off-exhibit breed- a day foraging for food. Their preferred Arun came from the Khao Kheow Open

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Z D H ' O © oo oorly enry s a h ma Z A L © oo s ngele s o August 2013 2013 August The Masai species of giraffe is foundThe Masai species of

Masai giraffe, Hafina, fathered by by fathered Masai giraffe, Hafina, Artimus. southern Kenya in East Africa, namely and northern Tanzania.

Z N © oo ille shv a .A. ZOO ANNOUNCES BIRTH BIRTH ANNOUNCES L.A. ZOO LF OF GIRAFFE CA ani- Zoo’s Los Angeles April, the On 22 to new heights mal community soared female giraffe calfwith the birth of a at in weighing The calf, Sofie. named six feet tall,135 pounds and standing McMillan Robert was named by donor This granddaughter. after his great female the Zoo’s is the first baby for Zoo in Chonburi, Thailand, in 2008 asZoo in Chonburi, Thailand, save effort to part of the Consortium’s This is thethe species from extinction. old Baylie second birth for four-year Baylie was born Chet. and her mate Smithsonian Zoo’s the National at Institute in Biology Conservation Chet was one of and Va., Front Royal, at Arun and Jai Jing to born cubs three 2009. Nashville Zoo in in THE AMUR LEOPARD AND TIGER GLOBAL SPECIES MANAGEMENT PLANS

amed after the Amur River that forms the border between Russia and China, the Amur Nleopard and Amur tiger also share their struggle for survival. Only 40-to-50 Amur leopards remain in a single small population, making it arguably the most endangered big cat remaining in the wild, and wild Amur tiger numbers have dropped to fewer than 500. The future of these two subspecies has been a major concern of the world’s zoos for many years. Both are managed by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plans® (SSP) programs, by Program Leaders Cynthia Kreider, zoo director at the Erie Zoo, for leopards, and Tara Harris, director of conservation at the Minnesota Zoo, for tigers, and by other regional zoo associations. While occasional inter-regional transfers have occurred in the past, better global collaboration would ensure that future transfers provide optional benefit to all regions for increased population viability as well as offer other conservation benefits.

Amur tiger, Minnesota Zoo, Photo by Tara Harris By Cynthia Kreider, Tara Harris, Kathy Traylor-Holzer, Tanya Arzhanova, 36 CONNECT August 2013 Sarah Christie, and Jo Cook he Amur Tiger and Amur Leopard Global Species populations. While several transfers may be identified initially to Management Plans (GSMP) grew out of global planning dis- improve viability in each region, future inter-regional transfers Tcussions held at the 2012 Felid Taxon Advisory Group meet- are likely to be needed only periodically. Global cooperation also ing. In October 2012 the Amur tiger joined the Sumatran tiger as promotes collaboration on husbandry protocols, veterinary issues, an official GSMP of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums research projects, and other key activities to the benefit of all re- (WAZA), convened by Tanya Arzhnova, with the Moscow Zoo gions. Both GSMPs identified areas of potential collaboration and and Tara Harris. The Amur Leopard GSMP followed suit in May key inter-regional transfers. 2013, convened by Tanya Arzhnova and Sarah Christie with the In-situ conservation is paramount to the GSMP programs as Zoological Society of London (ZSL). Both GSMPs involve four part of an integrated One Plan approach to conservation. The main regional zoo associations: AZA in North America, the European threat to Amur tigers is poaching, whereas Amur leopards are Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) in Europe, the Japanese threatened most by poaching of their prey and habitat loss from Association of Zoos and Aquariums in Japan, and the Eurasian human-induced forest fires. Conservation support from zoos in Regional Association of Zoos and Aquariums (EARAZA) in the terms of funding and awareness has been crucial since the mid- Eurasian region representing the native range of these subspecies. 1990s. Though the ex-situ and in-situ conservation programs for Collectively, 92 institutions hold 210 Amur leopards derived from Amur leopards and Amur tigers have both similarities and dissim- 13 founders and representing 89 percent gene diversity. The Amur ilarities, they share many of the key players. Zoos participating in Tiger GSMP population consists of 486 Amur tigers held in 185 the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP) and SSP have institutions with 85 founders and representing 98 percent gene channelled their support to the Amur Leopard and Tiger Alliance diversity. (ALTA) for in-situ conservation for years, and in 2012 the Tiger It seemed fitting to have both GSMPs participate in the inau- SSP began supporting Amur tiger conservation efforts through gural meeting held this May. The meeting was generously hosted its Tiger Conservation Campaign. Four implementing agencies by the Moscow Zoo, which has been an important contributor to working on Amur tiger and leopard conservation projects receive the conservation of both big cats for the last two decades and vital ALTA funds: Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), ZSL, Phoenix to the success of both GSMPs, and the International Union for Fund, and Wildlife Vets International (WVI), with 100 percent of the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Species Survival Commission donations to ALTA and the Tiger Conservation Campaign going to (SCC) Conservation Breeding Specialist Group (CBSG) assisted the field to support anti-poaching efforts, firefighting, population with data analysis and facilitation. Representatives from Russia, and health monitoring, education, outreach, and compensation United States, Japan, and Europe participated to discuss future to farmers for depredated livestock. Monitoring systems recently plans and challenges. The meeting also provided an opportunity revealed the Amur leopard population increasing slightly, and the to discuss future collaboration regarding both big cats with the tiger population showing a significant decline. This surveillance Russian authorities and a political framework in which to do so. is vital in determining the current populations’ location and num- Representatives of the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) met bers so that effective conservation projects can be implemented. with the GSMP convenors, and a structure for MoUs regarding There are many threatened species populations in the world in interactions between the wild and captive populations was agreed need of intensive management and conservation. By working in a upon. The Amur Leopard GSMP and MNR met to discuss the plan global perspective, so much more can be accomplished, not only for Amur leopard reintroduction, which awaits formal approval in through combined conservation efforts, but by enhanced political Moscow. Progress has been made toward a suitable agreement and cooperation as well. After all, when regions of the world are pro- discussions continue. tected and countries have the means to save their native treasures, The leopard reintroduction program grew from a 2001 meet- all the animals and their stewards will surely benefit. ing in Vladivostok where the stakeholders and conservationists, including the Chair of the IUCN/SSC Cat Specialist Group, made Cynthia Kreider is the Zoo Director at the Erie Zoo and the Amur Leopard SSP Program Leader the recommendation to use zoo leopards in order to establish a second wild population at another location. This would involve Tara Harris is the Director of Conservation building a facility in the Russian Far East in which captive-born at the Minnesota Zoo and the Tiger SSP Program Leader and leopards would be bred, their offspring conditioned to natural Amur Tiger GSMP Co-convener survival instincts, then released. Among the challenges of the Kathy Traylor-Holzer is with IUCN SSC Conservation program is the stipulation that only leopards with less than 20 Breeding Specialist Group and is the AZA Tiger Studbook percent of Founder SB# 2 in their pedigree will likely be accepted Keeper and Population Management Advisor to Tiger SSP for release. This founder’s genes spread throughout the population and Amur and Sumatran Tiger GSMPs decades ago, before genetic studies established he was a hybrid. Tanya Arzhanova with the Moscow Zoo is Co-coordinator Fortunately, due to carefully planned breeding, there are sufficient (EARAZA) of the Amur Leopard EEP and Co-convener animals with low Founder 2 content in the population to meet this of the Amur Tiger and Amur Leopard GSMPs requirement. One of the roles of a GSMP is to analyze the status, goals, and Sarah Christie with the Zoological Society of London is Co-convener of the Amur Leopard GSMP needs of the regional and global programs and develop an overall vision as to how regions can work together to promote the conser- Jo Cook with Zoological Society of London, is vation of both zoo and wild populations. This includes identifica- Co-coordinator (EAZA) of the Amur Leopard EEP, tion of a few key inter-regional transfers that will provide genetic Population Management Advisor to the Amur Leopard GSMP, and/or demographic benefits to both the donor and receiving and International Studbook Keeper for Amur leopards

August 2013 CONNECT 37 20130603_AquariumLining_ConnectAd.indd 1 6/3/13 3:00 PM 38 CONNECT August 2013 exhibits 39

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Z H © oo ton s ou 41 page , August 2013 2013 August continued until they are several months old, andold, months are several they until fade if they do notthe pink color will in their diet. enough carotenoids have AQUARIUM OF THE BAY THE BAY OF AQUARIUM NORTH ANNOUNCES NEW OTTER AMERICAN RIVER EXHIBIT in San Francisco, Aquarium of the Bay American opened a new North Calif., The otter exhibit this summer. river and conserva- exhibit is an education tion resource and provides an opportunity for guests to understand environmental changes. The exhibit opened in June, the new permanent exhibit late otters playing, swim- river will feature and more. ming, eating features a separate feeding pool wherepool feeding separate a features daily fla- twice Zoo guests may observe learn more aboutmingo feedings and the keeper talksthe flock during meet and presentations. About Chilean Flamingos - are found in wet Chilean flamingos as as high altitudes lands and lakes at In the wild, sea level. 15,000 feet above of various algae, their diet consists small and very invertebrates, aquatic the fla- fish. At the Houston Zoo, mingo flock dines on a prepared diet to include all of the is formulated that from the nutrients they would receive wild and the carotenoids necessary for are bornchicks Flamingo coloration. - and get their pink color from eat gray, pinkturn not do They crustaceans. ing

Central to the remodeled exhibit Central to the remodeled

is a new 20,000-gallon filtered pool.is a new 20,000-gallon Twice as large as the previous pool, the new oasis provides a range of depth allowing both wading and water swimming opportunities for the flamingo flock. An island in the center of as the flock’s primary the pool serves also nesting ground. The new habitat The newly-renovated Chilean flamingo The newly-renovated the Houston Zoo in Houston, exhibit at a more spacious only creates not Texas, flock the Zoo’s for habitat enriched and guest viewingbut also allows for better Houston Zoo cur- opportunities. The Chilean flamingos.rently is home to 42 HOUSTON ZOO CHILEAN ZOO HOUSTON FLAMINGO EXHIBIT REMODELED EXHIBITS CONSERVATION ENDOWMENT FUND UPDATE GLOBAL CONSERVATION LEADERSHIP PROGRAM FOR YOUTH BOTSWANA THE HUMAN DIMENSIONS OF CONSERVATION

otswana’s subsistence farmers often lose education and better jobs related to conservation, and, ultimately, their crops, their property, and sometimes coexistence with elephants and other wildlife. Btheir lives when elephants move outside The very successful first year of this project was conducted in protected areas. The country’s economy has 2012 in the villages of Moreomaoto and Khumaga, in the area with become increasingly reliant on wildlife-based the highest human-elephant conflict in the country. CZS’s Cycle tourism, but most community members lack of Inquiry workshop, which forms the basis for this program, de- opportunities to benefit from this industry. velops the mentors’ capacity to facilitate learning through small- scale research projects based on the interests of the students. Two With funding from the AZA Conservation Endowment Fund Elephun Weekends brought local children into the Makgadikgadi (CEF), the Chicago Zoological Society (CZS) and Elephants Pans National Park across the Boteti River for two days of fun, for Africa launched the Global Conservation Leadership team-based research. Students learned to identify evidence of el- Program for Youth Botswana in 2012. This capacity-build- ephant presence, track elephants, explore ecological interactions, ing project focuses on children ages 8-to-12 and their discuss elephants’ relationships with humans, and reflect on how Environmental Club mentors in the villages around the they relate to elephants and wildlife. cef update Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. This first year of the Global Conservation Leadership Program The long-term goals of this program are to develop infor Youth Botswana opened doors for dialogue with civic, govern- quiry skills and engage students in monitoring projects, mental, and nongovernmental organizations that share a common, using those skills to solve challenges relevant to them and overarching goal of developing conservation capacity in Botswana. their families. We expect to see increased capacity for innovation, increased chances for students to access higher By Ricardo Stanoss, DVM

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August 2013 2013 August Aquarium of the Bay focuses on Aquarium of the Bay allowing the Aquarium to address to address allowing the Aquarium Marine Protectedtimely issues such as seafood.Areas and sustainable life found in the marine and aquatic and along the San Francisco Bay this lens, California coast. Through interprets criticalAquarium of the Bay facing wildlife,environmental issues The starting from the local watershed. otter ex- new North American river hibit will help aquarium guests under- otters humans and river stand that and will in- need a healthy watershed spire visitors to explore and protect it, about thereby providing education issues important water most the of one in California. The North American river otter ex- The North American river wall adorned with live plants acts asacts plants live with adorned wall to this $1.3 mil- a unique backdrop gallery- modern, The expansion. lion deep and shallow like exhibit features to cavort in, pluspools for the otters of dry land and living foliage toplenty to play waterfall explore and a small exhibit with live on. They share the Enclosed in nine- fishes and crawfish. foot tall glass walls, visitors will experience an almost 360-degree view of the exhibit. two-part a of part first the is hibit expansion plan for Aquarium of the expansion The second phase of the Bay. will include new state-of-the-art class- Labs, Discovery rooms, or Watershed its edu- the Aquarium expand helping programs. Phase two will also cation temporary exhibits, include rotating, exhibit, taking over the Farallonthe over taking exhibit, With design efforts led by AZA efforts led by AZA With design “Thisis about con- whole exhibit Room which was previously used was previously used which Room classroom programs, and for events views of San and provides sweeping tall living A six-foot Francisco Bay. Commercial Member EHDD, the ap- the EHDD, Member Commercial 1,000-square-foot exhibit proximately the Touch extends from the Aquarium’s Bay - the upper water necting people to president Frawley, John says shed,” of the Bay andand CEO of Aquarium are the otters the Bay Institute. “River the demonstrate perfect animal to They’re watershed. importance of the and they to watch, and fun charismatic an opportunity simultaneously create for us to speak to our lifelong learners about the critical needs of our ecosystem.” f you work at a zoo or aquarium, chances are good ACCURATELY you’ve been asked how long a particular animal Ican live. Visitor research indicates that this is one of the top questions our guests want answered. We ANSWERING need an accurate response for our press releases (especially in the instance of an animal death), signage, websites, animal fact sheets, and when we talk THE AGE-OLD with our visitors. Until now, there hasn’t been a single source for valid, science-based answers for the spe- QUESTION: cies in our collections. In the past, we frequently used the maximum recorded age (the maximum longevity) when trying to answer this question. This is HOW LONG DO not ideal, as maximum longevity is an outlier – most individuals will never reach that age. By sharing these (unusual) lifespans it could imply that all individuals should live that long. If one doesn’t THEY LIVE? – and most individuals won’t – visitors may have the impression that the zoo or aquarium did something wrong. Median life expectancy, rather than lifespan or longevity, is the appropriate way to communicate how long a typical individual of a given species lives. To put this in a context we’re all more familiar with, the median life expectancy for humans in the U.S. is 77.5 years and the maximum longevity worldwide is 122 years. We can expect that about half of us will die before age 77 and half will die after. Very few people can expect to reach 122. Certainly if someone lives to be 90 years old they well exceeded the median life expectancy and should not be characterized as having died young for failing to reach

42 CONNECT August 2013 By Lisa Faust, Sharon Dewar, and Patty Peters 122 years. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) recom- analyzed can be obtained by AZA members by contacting conserva- mends members start using median life expectancy as the primary [email protected]. There is an FAQ section with more details on how to referenced statistic for species longevity. interpret these statistics, as well as example press releases that in- A quick survey of Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)- corporate accurate median life expectancy statistics. The median accredited zoo websites illustrates how widely varying our answers life expectancies in the survival library can be used to 1) plan ahead can be for this important question. For instance, four zoos offer for potential high-profile deaths, by comparing the ages of the different answers for how long chimpanzees live: “40 years”, “40 animals in your collection to the median life expectancy and other -50 years”, “30 -40 years”, and “rarely live past the age of 40 in the statistics in the report; 2) prepare to talk with the media about a wild, but have been known to live to more than 60 in captivity”. (In death of an animal, to put that animal’s death in context of what case you’re wondering, the median life expectancy for chimpan- is typical for the species; and 3) determine what statistics to use zees is 31.7 years for males and 38.7 for females.) This variability is on signage, on website species fact sheets, in education programs, not an isolated example. If a student is writing a report about an and in response to visitor questions. We encourage the AZA com- animal and references several zoos and aquariums’ fact sheets, we munity to use this library when looking for accurate answers to the don’t necessarily look like the animal experts we are if our answers question ‘how long does this species live?’ are so contradictory. Each AZA-accredited facility should be an authoritative and trustworthy source. Lisa Faust is the Vice President of Conservation and Until now, even if AZA-accredited institutions wanted to be Science at the Lincoln Park Zoo scientifically accurate and speak with the same language, there was no single reference with median life expectancy estimates. In Sharon Dewar is the Director of Public Relations at response, scientists at Lincoln Park Zoo and the AZA Population the Lincoln Park Zoo Management Center (PMC), with support from the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, have created a reference library of scientifically- Patty Peters is the Vice President of Community valid median life expectancies for 110 high-profile species in AZA- Relations at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium accredited zoos and aquariums for use by AZA members. The library will grow over time as additional species are analyzed by the PMC. The library is available at www.aza.org/survival-stats. What’s encompassed in the library? The website includes an overview table; more detailed reports for each species that has been

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CDI 2013-AZA half page ad HRes.indd 1 6/28/13 10:21 AM August 2013 CONNECT 45 46 CONNECT August 2013 ANNOUNCEMENTS

2013 AZA Photo Contest By entering the contest you also represent, acknowledge announcements and warrant that (i) the submitted photograph is an original Photos must work created solely by you, and you are the sole owner of all be taken in 2013 right, title, and interest in and to your photograph, including or the last three the copyright; (ii) AZA’s publication of your photograph as months of 2012 authorized herein will not violate or infringe any right, title, or by staff or volun- interest of any person or entity; (iii) AZA’s publication of your teers at an AZA- photograph will not violate any right of privacy or publicity accredited insti- nor create any other liability in tort and that you have obtained tution. CONNECT a valid model release from any identifiable, individual person staff will judge who is the subject of the photograph; (iv) you are not a party the photos, and to and your photograph is not subject to any contract or ar- the winner will rangement that would conflict with your permission herein; appear on the and (v) you agree to indemnify and hold harmless AZA against December 2013 any damages, losses, or expenses occurring as a result of any cover. Other ex- claimed breach of warranty. ceptional photos will be high- Release Form lighted inside the To be considered for publication in CONNECT, all contest pho- magazine. The tos that include people must be accompanied by AZA’s Model photos may also appear on AZA’s website and/or other pro- Release Form signed by each person depicted. Download the motional materials. Photo Release Form (in PDF) here. www.aza.org/AZAPublications/ PhotoContest/ Format for Submission Submissions should include the name of the photographer, the AZA institution, the species, the date of the picture, and the equipment used. Only one photo entry will be accepted per photographer, so send in your best image. Pictures can include animals, people, and zoo or aquarium scenes – if you think it will make a good cover, send it in!

Deadline The deadline for entries is 15 September 2013.

Format JPG, TIFF or EPS; 300+ dpi and 9”x12” in size. Send to: Both electronic and hard copy images will be accepted – though electronic images are preferred. All submissions become the property of AZA and will not be acknowledged or returned. Send electronic images to Tim Lewthwaite at [email protected] with “Photo Contest” in the subject line. Hard copies may be mailed to: 2012 Photo Contest; Tim Lewthwaite; AZA Publications Manager; 8403 Colesville Road, Suite 710; Silver Spring, MD 20910-3314.

License By entering the contest, you grant to AZA, and its succes- sors and assigns, the non-exclusive, worldwide, perpetual right and license to use, display, reproduce, publish, trans- Become mit, and distribute your photograph on AZA’s website, in a Retailer our magazine, and/or in any other promotional materials. Your grant and license shall also apply to any reprints, re- Founded in 1982 Replicas designed by vised editions, or derivative works in any media or format, Safari Ltd® in the USA. whether now or hereafter known, including without limita- Shop our entire collection at safariltd.com or call 800.554.5414 for a free color catalog. tion other kinds of print media and electronic media.

August 2013 CONNECT 47 MEMBER UPDATES

Welcome New Members AZA is pleased to warmly welcome new Professional Affiliate, Professional Fellow, Conservation Partners, Accredited Institutions, Certified Related Facilities and Commercial members.

New Professional Angie Lott Llanas, Senior I Animal New/Reinstated Affiliate Members Ambassador, SeaWorld San Antonio Commercial Members Matt Neff, Smithsonian National Beth Carlyle-Askew, Lead Zoo Keeper, JLK International Marketing, LLC Woodland Park Zoo Zoological Park 592 Long Oak Drive Jessica Hughes Porterfield, Animal Aphrodite Caserta, Director of Marketing, Gainesville, GA 30501 Keeper, Oakland Zoo Safari West Wildlife Preserve Phone: (770) 530-9817 Karen Davis, Director of Development, Martha Thompson, Greater Los Angeles Fax: (413) 677-5712 Brevard Zoo Zoo Association E-mail: [email protected] Cheyenne Garcia, Education Specialist, El Adrienne Lee Walt, Associate Vice www.medallionvendingfun.com Paso Zoo President-Institutional Advancement, Contact: Jocelyne Keijzer Hazel Harris, Director of Human Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association Medallion Vending Fun is a unique con- Resources, Safari West Wildlife Preserve Anne Weber-Smith, Director of Major cept, featuring sleek vending machines Amanda Hawkins, Birmingham Zoo Gifts, Minnesota Zoo Foundation with customized graphics depicting your Rick Kay, Director of Training, Lincoln New Professional attractions designs, dispending custom- Park Zoo Fellow Members ized medallions that are also completely Louis Lazure, Coordinator of Research customized to represent logos, charac- Carolina M. Arruda, Avian Manager, The and Conservation, Zoo de Granby ters, or distinct appeal to your attraction. Dallas World Aquarium Josh Le, Social Media and Marketing Silvia Huston, Director Marketing/ US Mysids Inc Coordinator, Minnesota Zoological Communication, Aquarium of the Bay 1702 Shore Drive Garden member updates John Muller, VP Operations, The Florida St. Augustine, FL 32086 Linda Leadbitter, VP Human Resources & Aquarium Phone: (904) 814-2561 Admin, Lincoln Park Zoo www.mysids.com Contact: Herb Hickox Supplier of Live Mysids for Aquariums XCO Digital 6756 Old McLean Village Drive McLean, VA 22101 Phone: (703) 584-4957 www.xcodigital.com Contact: Alan Hayman XCO Digital offers a mobile platform that enables zoos and aquariums to create, launch, and manage their own Apple and Android apps to enhance the visitor experience. The app solution including unique mapping features, in-depth exhibit information, events, social media and the opportunity to increase incre- mental revenue for zoo and aquariums. The company, launched in 2009, has very prestigious clients including the Smithsonian's National Zoo and JUNGLE ROCK the AZA/Animals Inc. In addition, the Boulders and Benches XCO mobile platform is used the by the Innovative boulder design for Zoos, Parks, Playgrounds and Entries. George W. Bush Presidential Center, Lightweight and Durable. Made in the USA using green and recycled materials. LBJ Presidential Library, Carnegie Hall, World War II Museum, US Navy SPORT ROCK INTL Blue Angels, and the National Bonsai www.sportrockintl.com 805-481-5686 Museum.

48 CONNECT August 2013 index of advertisers

Company Website Phone Page # index of advertisers A Thru Z Consulting & Distributing, Inc. www.athruzcages.com 520-434-8281 10 American Sealants, Inc. www.amsealinc.com 970-523-6001 19 Aqua Logic Inc. www.aqualogicinc.com 858-292-4773 31 AVID Identification Systems, Inc. www.avidid.com 800-336-2843 11 Cemrock Naturalistic Environments www.cemrock.com 520-571-1999 38 CLR Design www.clrdesign.com 215-564-0250 15 Corners Limited www.cornerslimited.com 800-456-6780 22 Creative Displays, Inc. www.creativedisplays.com 800-733-9617 45 Dan Inject Dart Guns www.daninjectdartguns.com 979-203-6735 26 Emperor Aquatics, Inc. www.emperoraquatics.com 610-970-0440 45 GLMV Architecture, Inc. www.glmv.com 316-265-9367 6 K & K Insurance Group, Inc. www.kandkinsurance.com 877-355-0315 18 Living Color Aquariums www.livingcolor.com 800-878-9511 11 Madewell Products Corporation www.madewell.net 800-741-8199 38 The Mason Company www.masonco.com 800-543-5567 52 Mazuri - Exotic Animal Diets www.mazuri.com 800-227-8941 2 MIG, Inc. www.migcom.com 510-845-7549 41 Milliken Meat Products Ltd. www.millikenmeat.com 905-415-0060 27 Nebraska Brand www.nebraskabrand.com 800-445-2881 Back Cover Nets Unlimited, Inc. www.netsunlimited.com 480-515-1300/866-NETS-R-US 14 Pentair Aquatic Eco-Systems www.pentairAES.com 407-472-0525 5

Perry-Becker Design www.perry-becker.com 407-960-4850 46 Richards-Wilcox Hardware www.rwhardware.com 800-277-1699 7 RodentPro.com www.rodentpro.com 812-867-7598 Inside Back Cover Safari Ltd. www.safariltd.com 800-554-5414 47 Skulls Unlimited International, Inc. www.skullsunlimited.com 800-659-7585 Inside Front Cover Sports Rock Intl. www.sportsrockintl.com 805-481-5686 48 Tom Tischler Bronze www.tomtischler.com [email protected] 28 Torre Design Consortium, Ltd. www.t-dcl.com 504-899-2932 19 Triple A Brand Meat Company www.tripleabrandmeatcompany.com 800-437-5581 24 WA Davidson of Jax, Inc. www.wadavidson.com 904-737-8287 29 WDM Architects P.A. www.wdmarchitects.com 316-262-4700 34 Zoo Med Laboratories, Inc. www.zoomed.com 800-542-9988 44

August 2013 CONNECT 49 CALENDAR

AUGUST 2013 7-12: The 2013 AZA Annual Conference is being hosted by the 6-10: 2013 International Tree Kangaroo Workshop Hosted by the Kansas City Zoo. This is the premier event for zoo and aquarium Melbourne Zoo, Zoos Victoria. Supported by the Zoo and Aquarium 7-10: The 11th Annual Symposium on the Conservation and professionals, bringing together leaders in our community to net- Association Australasia, American Association of Zoos and Aquariums Biology of Tortoises and Freshwater Turtles will be held in St. Louis, work with peers, explore ideas and best practices, share successful Tree Kangaroo Species Survival Program and World Association of Missouri. The meeting is sponsored by Zoo Med Laboratories, Inc. and programs, and learn new technologies and services. Attendees are Zoos and Aquariums Global Species Management Plan. For more infor- is co-hosted by the Turtle Survival Alliance and the IUCN Tortoise and guaranteed to be challenged with vibrant speakers from inside and mation, contact Megan Richardson at [email protected]. Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group (TFTSG). outside the community, expert-led programming, face-to-face meet- The symposium has hosted an average of more than 260 attend- ings with colleagues, more than 150 service providers in the exhibit 7-14: Conservation Breeding Centers for Wildlife Sustainability ees over the past three years, representing the largest gathering of hall, exciting networking and social events, and the famous Zoo Day. is an exciting new course that is organized, facilitated and taught non-marine turtle biologists in the world and provides an unmatched For more information, visit www.aza.org/annualconference. by specialists representing the Conservation Centers for Species opportunity for networking and strategizing turtle conservation. Last Survival (C2S2), a consortium of major conservation breeding cen- year’s conference was filled with presentations by biologists and 23-29: The Zoological Registrars Association (ZRA) 2013 Annual ters that focus on the survival of species with unique needs, espe- conservationists from 13 countries covering 50+ species. Visit www. Conference, “Leaps and Bounds,” will be hosted by the Fort Wayne cially large areas, natural group sizes, minimal public disturbance turtlesurvival.org for more information or to register. Contact Hlowe@ Children’s Zoo, Ft. Wayne, Indiana. ZRA, the Ft. Wayne Children’s Zoo and scientific research. These organizations are ‘non-traditional’ turtlesurvival.org for more information. and Hilton Ft. Wayne Grand Wayne Convention Center welcome del- in that they have substantial space and specialized resources that egates to Ft. Wayne. Registration is open through September 3, 2013; 26-30: International Elephant and Rhino Conservation & allow animal production as well as scientific study and population after that date a $10 late fee will be assessed. Visit the ZRA website at Research Symposium, co-hosted by the International Elephant recovery, including for reintroduction. This course will share the www.zooregistrars.org/conference.php?page=program or contact the Foundation, the International Rhino Foundation and the Pittsburgh details of the specialized C2S2 expertise and facilities that manage, 2013 Annual Conference Host, Michelle Federspiel, Registrar, Ft. Wayne Zoo & PPG Aquarium and International Conservation Center. study and reproduce wild animals on a sufficient scale to create Children’s Zoo, (260) 427-6851 or by email at [email protected]. Increasing pressures on wild populations of elephants and rhinos demographically and genetically stable populations. This will be of The Annual Conference includes two full days of General Sessions are having a devastating effect on their numbers. Human/wildlife particular interest to conservation, zoo and veterinary professionals with a scope of educational content that covers Record Keeping, conflicts, loss of habitat and poaching for the illegal wildlife trade who are involved in species assessment, management and recovery Wildlife Permits and Legislation, Animal Transport and Records and in elephant tusks and rhino horn are all contributing factors in the Collection Management. The ZRA Leadership Development Program programs in captivity or in the wild, as well as those interested rapid decline of wild populations. Through the ongoing work of zoos, is open to all ZRA members and provides valuable association man- in developing a career in conservation breeding of endangered scientific and field research, and massive efforts to stem the illegal agement and leadership training. The 6th Annual Certified Records species. wildlife trade, there is increasing hope for wild populations, but it is an Manager (CRM) Examination Preparation Workshop will be available to This course is offered at the Smithsonian-Mason School of ongoing effort. Elephant and rhino conservationists are coming from ZRA members interested in learning more about the credential and/or Conservation at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute around the world to present conservation projects and research results who are actively preparing for one or more of the six comprehensive (SCBI) in Front Royal, Va. Participants will learn both at SCBI on field conservation, conflict mitigation, captive and wildlife manage- exams. There will also be a pre-conference tour to Potter Park Zoo (Monday –Friday) and the Wilds (Saturday-Monday), both of which ment, health, nutrition, trade issues and reproduction. and a post-conference tour to the Toledo Zoo. For more information have new on-site training facilities, which vary in their expertise For more information including registration, renowned speakers, about the 2013 ZRA Annual Conference Program, contact Karen Jarvis, and habitats and area of focus. For more information, please visit: general schedule, post conference trip, etc. please go to: Program Chairman, Registrar, North Carolina Zoo, (336) 879-7606 or http://smconservation.gmu.edu/programs/graduate-and-professional/ http://pittsburghzoo.org/elephantrhinosymposium by email at professional-training-courses/conservation-breeding-centers-for- [email protected]. wildlife-sustainability/

SEPTEMBER 2013 10-13: Joint Meeting: 2013 CBSG Annual Meeting and WAZA 5-9: The Association of Zoo Veterinary Technicians will be hosting SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER Annual Conference and Technical Congress at Disney’s Animal their thirty-third Annual Conference September 5th-9th, 2013 at the Kingdom. The Conservation Breeding Specialist Group (CBSG) Annual 30-4: Amphibian Management School. Hosted by Detroit Zoo Alaska Sealife Center in Seward, Alaska. This is a great opportunity to Meeting and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) in Royal Oak, MI. AZA's amphibian training course has gone through interact with colleagues or learn what AZVT is all about while viewing Annual Conference and Technical Congress 2013 will take place at a metamorphosis all its own! The newly revamped Amphibian the beautiful state of Alaska. The conference will cover a wide variety Disney’s Animal Kingdom at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Management School focuses on basic husbandry, exhibit design, sup- of topics including Field Studies of Eurasion Black Vulture Conservation Florida. The CBSG Annual Meeting is October 10-13, 2013, and the WAZA port for regional conservation programs, and effective conservation and Using iSTAT in the Field for South American Fur Seals. Clinical Annual Conference is October 13-17, 2013. messaging in a zoo or aquarium setting. Drawing on expertise from pathology topics will include CBC's in Southern Stingrays, a case study WAZA’s call for papers is open until May 31, 2013. The website for the Amphibian Taxon Advisory Group, this course provides knowledge Monitoring Estradiol and Testosterone Levels in Gray Seals, Developing registration is now open and early bird registration will be open until about amphibians and skills for managing these sensitive species in a Quality Accuracy Program in a Lab with Multiple Technicians and a May 31. For more information, please visit: www.waza.org/en/site/get- captivity that are essential for anyone working directly with amphib- Fecal Flotation Comparison Study. Clinical section will cover Invasive BP involved/waza-annual-conferences/68th-annual-conference-oct-2013. ians in a zoo or aquarium collection. For more information about this monitoring in Exotics, Study of Body Temps in Lorikeets, Cardiovascular course and other opportunities to enrich your career, visit www.aza. Irregularities in Anesthesia, Wound Care in an African Crested 10-15: Managing Animal Enrichment & Training Programs. org/professional-training Porcupine, Physiological Changes in Cold Stunned Sea Turtles and Hosted by Chicago Zoological Society - Brookfield Zoo in Brookfield, Treatment of Spinal Abscess in Amur Tiger cub. There will also be a IL. Managing Animal Enrichment and Training Programs provides students with the skills to develop/enhance their institution's parasitology wet lab. Students qualify for a discounted registration If OCTOBER 2013 you would like more information please visit www.azvt.org. enrichment and training programs. The goals of the course are to 3-6: How do bears learn, problem solve, communicate, and provide the leadership skills and structural framework needed to 7: ZIMS Workshop - One day seminar hosted at Kansas City Zoo respond to their environment? Join us at Advancing Bear Care 2013 create and maintain successful enrichment and training programs, the day prior to the start of the AZA Annual Conference. Get hands- - Understanding Bears to explore the cognitive and physical needs to understand the importance of an animal's natural and individual on, face-to-face training and technical support on ISIS software and of captive bears. Learn how to provide stimulating complex natural history in developing enrichment and training plans, and to applications -- at price far below premium. Gain Insight and provide environments to meet those needs. examine the history of enrichment, training and animal welfare. input into further development of the Zoological Information Advancing Bear Care 2013 will be held at the Holiday Inn in Clinton, Each student will be guided through the development of their own Management System (ZIMS) application. Participate in discussions New Jersey in partnership with the Woodlands Wildlife Refuge in action plan aimed at moving their zoo or aquarium's enrichment of basic animal records techniques. Network with zoological profes- Clinton, New Jersey on October 3-6, 2013. There will be two post and training programs forward. For more information about this conference trips held on Oct 7th: Bronx Zoo Day and Oct 8th: Helping sionals from around the world. Register for ZIMS first and receive course and other opportunities to enrich your career, visit www.aza. Hands-On Building Project at the Woodlands Wildlife Refuge. Details a 20 percent discount off AZA Annual Conference registration. For org/professional-training available at www.bearcaregroup.org. more information, contact [email protected].

50 CONNECT August 2013

member news

Hosted by Detroit Zoo Zoo Detroit by Hosted

Hosted by Chicago Zoological Society - Society Zoological Chicago by Hosted

Hosted by by II. Hosted Management Principles of Elephant Hosted by Oglebay Resort in Wheeling, WV. Wheeling, in Resort Oglebay by Hosted NatureStart. NatureStart. Programs. & Training Managing Animal Enrichment Amphibian Management School. Amphibian Management Hosted Hosted Animal Management. Principles of Program Principles of Elephant Management II Management Principles of Elephant Hosted by Oglebay Resort Resort Oglebay by Exhibits. Hosted Successful Creating Population Management I: Data Analysis & Breeding Analysis & Breeding I: Data Management Population Population Management I: Data Acquisition & Acquisition I: Data Management Population Animal Training Applications in Zoo & Aquarium in Zoo Applications Animal Training Hosted by Oglebay Resort Resort Oglebay by Hosted Keeping. Records Institutional Conservation Education: Effective Program Design. Program Effective Education: Conservation Hosted by by Hosted Development. Career Success: Managing for Hosted Hosted and Conservation. Biology, Management, Avian 11-16: Brookfield Zoo in Brookfield, IL. Brookfield, in Zoo Brookfield 22-25: TX. Houston, in Zoo Houston the SEPTEMBER 2013 SEPTEMBER the by is being hosted 7-12 AZA Annual Conference The 2013 visit information, more For Zoo. Kansas City www.aza.org/annualconference. Hosted by Chicago Zoological Society - Brookfield Zoo in Zoo Brookfield - Society Zoological Chicago by Hosted IL. Brookfield, 10-15: APRIL 2014 6-12: FL. Orlando, in Kingdom Animal Disney’s by Hosted Settings 14-17: FL. Orlando, in Kingdom Animal Disney’s by Hosted SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 30-4: 2013 OCTOBER 10-15: 2013 NOVEMBER 11-16: WV. Wheeling, in 11-16: Processing. in Animal Keeping Practices 1: Best 26-MAY OH. Toledo, in Zoo Toledo by Hosted in Royal Oak, MI.Oak, Royal in 11-16: 11-16: WV. Wheeling, in Resort Oglebay by Hosted Recommendations. WV. Wheeling, in Resort Oglebay by FEBRUARY 2014 FEBRUARY 3-8: WV. Wheeling, in Resort Oglebay by Development. Organizational Success: 3-8: Managing for WV. Wheeling, in Resort Oglebay by Hosted 3-8: WV. Wheeling, in 3-8: WV. Wheeling, in Resort Oglebay Oglebay by I. Hosted Management 3-8: Principles of Elephant WV. Wheeling, in Resort 3-8: WV. Wheeling, in Resort Oglebay by Hosted date the Save For more information about these courses and other opportunities to enrich your career, visit www.aza.org/professional-training 52 page , continued

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Childhood Early CZS The NatureStart: of features your enrich to opportunities other and course this about information www.aza.org/professional-training visit career, Endocrinology of Wildlife Society 4th Annual International 14-16: Chicago,in Zoo Park Lincoln the by hosted being is conference (ISWE) collaborations, stronger promoting and facilitating on focuses ISWE IL. animaloptimizing and exchange, information for forum a providing world the around from Scientists welfare. and reproduction, health, techniques innovative and directions research discuss to convene will on information further For endocrinology. wildlife of field the in visit please membership and registration, details, conference iswe-endo.org 22-25: Management Elephant of Principles TX. 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within the institution but also in regional and global cooperative spe- 3-8: Managing for Success: Organizational Development. perspective of animal training as well as terminology and an overview cies management programs. This course offers students training that Hosted by Oglebay Resort in Wheeling, WV. Managing for Success: of training techniques. Selected training concepts and skills will be will integrate best practices for accurate data entry and standardiza- Organizational Development prepares new leaders to meet the specific taught via animal demonstrations, group activities and individual skill tion of data along with technical instruction. This instruction is in the challenges of a leadership role within a zoo or aquarium and the dual- development opportunities. For more information about this course most updated application of ISIS’ Zoological Information Management ity of meeting both mission and bottom line. The course addresses and other opportunities to enrich your career, visit www.aza.org/ System – ZIMS 2012 - which will be deployed in early 2012. This course ethical, animal welfare and collection issues as well as the planning professional-training provides students exposure to the most current technology that techniques and strategies required to lead these unique organizations defines the future of animal records keeping. For more information successfully. For more information about this course and other oppor- 26-MAY 1: Best Practices in Animal Keeping. Hosted by about this course and other opportunities to enrich your career, visit tunities to enrich your career, visit www.aza.org/professional-training Toledo Zoo in Toledo, OH. Advances in Animal Keeping covers the www.aza.org/professional-training essentials of animal keeping across all taxa. The course focuses on the 3-8: Principles of Elephant Management I. Hosted by Oglebay very highest standards in animal husbandry, in combination with 3-8: Managing for Success: Career Development. Hosted by Resort in Wheeling, WV. Principles in Elephant Management I focuses problem solving, team building and interpersonal skills. You will Oglebay Resort in Wheeling, WV. Managing for Success: Career on the foundation necessary for developing comprehensive and engage with professional colleagues and apply what you learn back at Development examines management disciplines with emphasis on proactive elephant management programs. Students will take away your home institution. The goal of this course is to motivate and their application to zoos and aquariums. Participants will receive prac- skills for creating self-sustaining elephant management programs. retain animal care professionals within our industry and to elevate the tical tools and skills to take back to their institutions to apply at their AZA Accreditation Standards require that at all elephant care profes- standards of animal care in AZA zoos and aquariums. For more infor- level, including an increased network of resources and heightened sionals (keepers, managers, and directors) at institutions keeping mation about this course and other opportunities to enrich your leadership skills. For more information about this course and other elephants attend this course. For more information about this course career, visit www.aza.org/professional-training opportunities to enrich your career, visit www.aza.org/professional- and other opportunities to enrich your career, visit www.aza.org/ training professional-training

Calendar Submission Guidelines: APRIL 2014 To submit your listing for the CONNECT calendar, 6-11: Animal Training Applications in Zoo & please e-mail or fax the event name, date, loca- Aquarium Settings. Hosted by Disney’s Animal tion and contact information to Tim Lewthwaite, Kingdom in Orlando, FL. Animal Training Applications provides zoo and aquarium staff with a background AZA Publications Manager, at in training theory and an understanding of the skills [email protected] or fax to (301) 562-0888. necessary to train animals. It includes a historical

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