CONNECT May 2014 FEATURES
8 THE AZA ENVIRONMENTAL DISASTER RESPONSE INITIATIVE
STEVE OLSON
12 FORGING PARTNERSHIPS TO PROTECT AFRICA'S ELEPHANTS JIM BREHENY
16 FEDERAL AND STATE LEGISLATIVE ROUNDUP AZA On Capitol Hill JENNIFER KEATON
18 ZOOREADY CONFERENCE
YVONNE NADLER
25 ANIMAL WELFARE COMMITTEE
28 CGF UPDATE
35 TEXAS STATE AQUARIUM JOINS FORCES WITH FLINT HILLS RESOURCES TO ENGAGE STUDENTS AND FAMILIES IN STEM EDUCATION
LESLIE PEART
IN EVERY ISSUE
3 A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO
6 CONSERVATION & RESEARCH
22 MEMBER NEWS
30 A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR OF THE BOARD
31 BIRTHS & HATCHINGS
39 EXHIBITS
42 ANNOUNCEMENTS
45 MEMBER UPDATES ON THE COVER 47 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS On 29 October the Senate unanimously passed a resolution officially designating 2 48 CALENDAR November, as National Bison Day. Legislation in the House of Representatives, H.R. 3400, the National Bison Legacy Act, would adopt the North American bison as the na- tional mammal of the United States. This bipartisan legislation has been introduced by Representatives Clay (MO-01), Fortenberry (NE-01), Serrano (NY-15), and Noem (SD-At Large). Please visit the AZA Legislative Education Center at www.congressweb.com/aza to send a letter to your representatives encouraging them to cosponsor this legislation. For more information about the coalition, please visit www.votebison.org.
NORTH AMERICAN BISON ©THINKSTOCK PHOTOS 2 CONNECT May 2014 A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO
he Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) represents the gold standard for zoos and president & Taquariums in the United States. The Association is actively engaged in ensuring that federal, state and local government policies fully support accredited zoos and aquariums and that your representatives fully understand the value AZA-accredited facilities bring to their communities. More than 180 million people visit AZA-accredited institutions annually in the United States, and direct spending by those institutions contributed $13.2 billion to the United States GDP. It’s a compelling story, and the involvement of AZA members plays an important part in the telling of the tale. AZA has the resources and expertise to help you communicate effectively with Congress, federal agencies and state and local government, but it is your voice that carries the real weight.
AZA works throughout the year to build strong relationships with members of Congress and various federal agencies and to keep you informed about important federal and state legislation that affects the AZA community. Each spring we invite you to Washington, D.C., to bring your federal officials personal stories about the AZA-accredited facilities in their districts and states. This year’s advocacy events on Capitol Hill took place on May 6th and 7th, with the AZA signature Capitol Hill reception being a real highlight. A sincere thank you goes out to all those who participated – the conservation, education and economic impact stories you told resonate deeply with members of Congress. ceo In addition, the bipartisan Congressional Zoo and Aquarium Caucus now stands at more than 80 members, with new members continuing to join. The Caucus holds briefings and assists AZA members in sharing information on Capitol Hill. Our collective footprint touches 166 Congressional Districts across the country, but just 56 of those are members of the Caucus. Is your U.S. Representative one of those not a part of the Caucus? I challenge you to find out, and if they have not joined the Caucus, please invite them to do so.
I also wanted to share with you that the Association recently hired Rob Vernon as its senior vice president of external af- fairs. Many of you met Rob in Memphis at the AZA Mid-Year Meeting. He has extensive Capitol Hill and state government experience, and will be working closely with AZA’s government affairs staff to enhance dialogue between government and AZA members. Prior to joining AZA, Rob worked as an executive director at global public relations firm GolinHarris’ Washington, D.C., office. At GolinHarris, Rob provided both traditional and social media communications and public policy counsel to a variety of clients, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Infosys, the Florida Lottery, Sargento Foods and the National Industries for the Blind. Rob is a valuable addition to the AZA team, and I hope you will reach out to him with any ideas you might have.
Building and cultivating relationships with federal, state and local government officials is vital in today’s sophisticated and rapidly changing world of communications. If you have not done so recently, I encourage you to visit the AZA Legislative Education Center on the AZA website (www.aza.org) and learn how AZA can help you communicate effectively with all levels of government.
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.
May 2014 CONNECT 3 AZA BOARD & STAFF
AZA STAFF AZA BOARD OF DIRECTORS CONNECT STAFF 2013 - 2013 Tim Lewthwaite, Editor OFFICERS Lisa Cadigan, Designer, Cadigan Creative CONNECT EDITORIAL BOARD CHAIR Melinda Arnold, Dickerson Park Zoo Jackie Ogden, PhD Martha Fischer, Saint Louis Zoo Vice President, Animals, Science and Environment, Julie Larsen-Maher, Wildlife Conservation Society Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Tim Lewthwaite, AZA Publications Manager Ph: (407) 938-2831, E-mail: [email protected] Kristin L. Vehrs, AZA Executive Director CHAIR ELECT AZA STAFF Dennis E. Pate Jim Maddy, President & CEO Executive Director and CEO, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium Kristin L. Vehrs, Executive Director Ph: (402) 738-2014, E-mail: [email protected] Paul Boyle, PhD, Senior Vice President of VICE CHAIR Conservation & Education Jill Nicoll, Chief Operating Officer Steve Burns Director, Zoo Boise Rob Vernon, Senior Vice President of External Affairs Ph: (208) 384-4125, x203, E-mail: [email protected] Debborah Luke, PhD, Vice President of board & staff Conservation & Science PAST CHAIR Denny Lewis, Vice President Accreditation Programs Tom Schmid Jennifer Keaton, Vice President, Congressional Affairs President and CEO, Texas State Aquarium Steve Olson, Vice President Federal Relations Ph: (361) 881-1242, E-mail: [email protected] Phil Wagner, Senior Vice President of Finance DIRECTORS Candice Dorsey, PhD, Director, Animal Programs Jim Breheny Jeff Dow, Director of Sales & Marketing Executive Vice President and General Director, Zoos and Aquarium Jennifer DiNenna, Manager, Accreditation Jonathan Little Cohen Director of the Bronx Zoo Wildlife Conservation Society Jennifer Fields, Communications Coordinator Ph: (718) 220-5101, E-mail: [email protected] Allegra Formento, Marketing Assistant Lynn B. Clements Rachel Gauza, Citizen Science Program Specialist Director, Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center Rebecca Greenberg, Program Assistant, Conservation Ph: (757) 385-0241, E-mail: [email protected] & Science Jim Hekkers Shelly Grow, Director, Conservation Programs Managing Director, Monterey Bay Aquarium Melissa Howerton, Vice President, Conferences & Membership Ph: (831) 647-6825, E-mail: [email protected] Tim Lewthwaite, Publications & Brand Manager Gregg Hudson Nette Pletcher, Director of Conservation Education Executive Director and Chief Executive Offi cer, Dallas Zoo Management, Inc. Barbara Pueschel, Board & Committees Liaison Ph: (469) 554-7510, E-mail: [email protected] Nancy Ramos, Receptionist Amy Rutherford, Professional Development Program Manager Dennis W. Kelly Ana Maria Sanchez, Controller Director, Smithsonian National Zoological Park Barbara Skewes, Manager, Member Information Services Ph: (202) 633-4442, E-mail: [email protected] Sarah Sullivan, Manager, Digital Media Kevin Mills Gina Velosky, Manager, Business Development & Marketing President and CEO, South Carolina Aquarium Cheryl Wallen, Meeting Planner Ph: (843) 579-8555, E-mail: [email protected] Amos Morris Association of Zoos & Aquariums Zoo Director, Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden 8403 Colesville Road, Suite 710 Ph: (812) 435-6143 x401, E-mail: [email protected] Silver Spring, MD 20910 Douglas G. Myers 301-562-0777 (phone); 301-562-0888 (fax); President and CEO, San Diego Zoo Global www.aza.org Ph: (619) 557-3999, E-mail: [email protected] John T. Walczak Director, Louisville Zoological Garden Ph: (502) 238-5335, E-mail: [email protected] 4 ‘‘Let Your Trees Be A Source of Revenue!’’
;I\Q[NQML+][\WUMZ[_Q\P :MIT-KW)L^MV\]ZM[ \IQTWZUILMNWZBWW[ :][[MTT;,I_[+-7 2WM5WV\Q[IVW+-7 407-710-3051 | TreetopConcept.com May 2014 CONNECT 5 CONSERVATION & RESEARCH INTERACTIONS WITH ANIMALS each of these had relatively small sam- O’HAIRE, ME. 2013. Animal-Assisted MODERATES AUTISTIC ple sizes. Within these 14 studies, there Intervention for Autism Spectrum BEHAVIORS were several positive outcomes from an- Disorder: A Systematic Literature Across a wide range of contexts, inter- imal-assisted interventions. Individuals Review. Journal of Autism Developmental actions with animals may positively af- with autism spectrum disorders showed Disorders 43: 1606-1622. Correspondence fect human health and behavioral well- one or more of the following: increased to Marguerite O’Haire (maggie.ohaire@ being. Animal-assisted interventions verbal and/or physical interactions, re- gmail.com). duced severity of symptoms, reduced have had positive outcomes as treat- VIDEO VS. LIVE problem behaviors (e.g., verbal abuse), ments for patients with Alzheimer’s, PRESENTATIONS schizophrenia, and children with con- and increased laughing or smiling. It is duct and attention-deficit disorders. noteworthy that the only five empiri- Technology and live presentations can There is also information suggesting cal studies of swim-with-dolphins as an enhance educational experiences at zoo that animal-assisted interventions, in- animal-assisted intervention were ex- and aquarium exhibits. However, there cluding swim-with-dolphins programs, cluded from the analyses because they is much variation in the effect of video have positive impacts on autism spec- failed to provide separate results for presentations and there is much to be trum disorders. This paper provides a participants with autism spectrum dis- learned about the appropriate context rigorous, systematic review of empiri- orders. The study concludes that ani- for technology, static, or live presenta- cal studies that focus on the impact of mal-assisted interventions show prom- tions of information at exhibits. This animal-assisted interventions on autism ise as treatment for autism spectrum study compared visitor responses and spectrum disorders. Only 14 studies met disorders. retention of information when informa- the criteria for inclusion in analysis, and tion was presented on static signage, as 6 CONNECT May 2014 conservation & research 7 CONNECT May 2014 2014 May , J, E 2013. EIMLICH , N, A, H RDOIN Views from the field: conservation edu- Views from the field: conservation perceptions of and practitioners’ cators’ for achieving as a strategy education of The Journal outcomes. conservation Environmental Education. 44: 97-115 Correspondence to: [email protected] OPPORTUNITIES FOR FOR OPPORTUNITIES EDUCATION CONSERVATION PRACTICE in- used mixed-methods The authors discus- interviews and cluding surveys, educators, sion groups of conservation practitioners and organi- conservation leaders to explore the efficacy zational or in reaching conservation of education var- the goals and management resource ied perceptions of the these profession- from all groups indicated als. Responses ability to impact a belief in education’s including goals. Barriers conservation training in educational lack of adequate learning theory; lack of funding and staff to implement high-quality edu- programs; and lack of strong cational and empirical evidence dem- evaluative be- relationship positive the onstrating out- and conservation education tween comes impact the reality of educational that All three groups indicated efficacy. useful tools would include case studies a had demonstrated in which education conservation role in achieving positive methods results; training in evaluation mod- and theory; and straightforward successful initiatives. els for developing professional Findings further indicate and practi- for educators development tioners around understanding learning research theory and current educational pro- education as conservation as well using research-based, grams designed theoretical models of informal learning and behavior change are needed. A , J, ORRIAN , R, D elissa.pearson@unisa. OWRY Evaluating the C,A 2014. Evaluating , EL, L EARSON ITCHFIELD Correspondence to: edu.au employed included You Tube videos and Tube videos You employed included was col- Data Facebook social networks. before, the orangutan habitat lected at the end and six months after at midway, atti- and knowledge on campaign the importance of tudes about orangutans, to friends and orangutan conservation for norm), support family (subjective conservation previous labeling, oil palm for future be- behaviors and intentions in- significant showed haviors. Results palm oil awareness, attitudes creases in toward orangutans, shifts in social norms, support for labeling and indica- labeling would influence pur- tions that increases Significant chasing behavior. behavior conservation self-reported in and the end of the campaign occurred at as While the campaign six months later. this study effectiveness, a whole showed to determine which was not designed elements had the strongest impacts, an opportunity for further research. These tailored ed- highly findings suggest that messages with conservation ucational impact species relevance can effectively conservation. P conservation impact of an innovative impact of an innovative conservation ‘Don’t campaign: zoo-based educational Palm Us Off’ conserva- for organutan tion. Zoo Biology doi: 10.1002/zoo.21120 L , TL. TL. , APLE , TS, M , TS, TOINSKI , BM, S ERDUE The authors describe the evaluation of describe the evaluation The authors Palm Us Off”the “Don’t conservation implemented at campaign education Australia. Designed the Melbourne Zoo, to increase public awareness regard- public support ing palm oil and create of palm oil, the labeling for mandatory the used zoo based videos at campaign cards to ad- petition orangutan habitat, ambassa- for labeling, celebrity vocate dors and palm oil wallet cards to aid in conscious shopping. Social media tools ZOO-BASED CONSERVATION CONSERVATION ZOO-BASED CAMPAIGNS EDUCATION SPECIES TO CONTRIBUTE CONSERVATION. video, or in live presentations. The ex- presentations. or in live video, with a touchscreen hibit is naturalistic allows visitors to observe computer that while animals are research taking place visitors may on exhibit. At the exhibit, or video presentation experience a live and conser- about orangutan research is also pre- this information vation: kiosks. Visitor and sented on signage combined was the exhibit at time’ ‘stay with a five-question knowledge survey only, to compare exposure to signage and video presenta- presentations, live tions. Stay time was longer for video than for signage presentations and live alone. Although there was significant among the knowledge ques- variation for knowledge was greater tions, overall for video and greater presentations live compared to signage. presentations a visi- the amount of time that However, the exhibit was positively tor spent at knowledge, re- with overall associated type. The study gardless of presentation as an video of example a clear provides zoo at approach educational effective exhibits. P Using technology to educate zoo 2012. Using technology to educate Visitor visitors about conservation. Correspondence to Studies, 15:16-27. (bonnie.m.perdue@gmail. Bonnie Perdue com). THE AZA ENVIRONMENTAL DISASTER RESPONSE INITIATIVE hether hurricanes, oil-spills, or for- West fires, animal populations are directly affected by both natural and man-made disasters. Current emergency response networks are becoming increas- ingly prepared to manage human populations in the event of an environmental disaster however; these networks are still generally unprepared to handle animal populations (especially those in the wild). The current system of response to man-made environ- mental disasters involving wildlife, the largest and most prominent of which are oil spills, is comprised of a well-established coalition of players, including federal and state agencies, large corporations, NGOs and companies that specialize in response, rescue and remedia- tion. Very reputable organizations specializ- ing in wildlife care (such as International Bird Rescue, Oiled Wildlife Care Network, and Tri-State Bird Rescue and Research) are all prominent players in oil spill response as well. Following the Deepwater Horizon disaster in the Gulf of Mexico, this coalition of respond- ers faced the challenge of being better pre- pared to respond for future disasters and, in particular, the damage these disasters cause to wildlife and the environment. 8 CONNECT May 2014 By Steve Olson urrently, AZA’s network of accredited zoos and aquariums short supply and those that did qualify were “burned out” way too Cprovides a unique talent pool that can be tapped into for fast. Currently, among the most pressing needs are AZA zoo and increased, additive effectiveness and which is uniquely aquarium professionals who are trained in Incident Command suited for augmenting wildlife triage, recovery, rehabilitation System (ICS 100/200 training) and Hazardous Waste Operations and release activities. AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums have and Emergency Response Standard (HAZWOPER 24 or 40 hour the experienced animal-care professionals – including zoologists, training) protocols. These are essential training protocols which biologists, aquarists, veterinarians, vet techs, animal data-entry must be completed before getting near an oil spill site or working specialists and many other animal professionals – who are desper- with oiled wildlife. ately needed to respond to animal-related issues in disaster situa- In our discussions over the past year with key federal agen- tions. AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums also have the resources cies, legislators, responders and potential funders it has become including capture equipment, horse-trailers, boats, nets, filtration apparent that while a nationwide approach to environmental equipment, pop-up pools and animal medical supplies that most disaster response is the ultimate goal, the most attainable near- disaster responders simply do not have. However, despite its will- term objective would be to establish model frameworks to respond ingness to play a role, AZA is not currently included in any formal to environmental disasters in the high-need areas of the Gulf of response framework. This provides the clear opportunity for AZA Mexico and the Arctic. Hence, we are beginning to inventory avail- accredited zoos and aquariums to become more involved and more able human and equipment resources in these two regions. These coordinated when future environmental disasters arise. Among resources will eventually be integrated into the AZA regional re- the many unique qualifications which we could eventually bring sponse prototype. to a response situation include: AZA’s ultimate goal is to create and sustain a large, well-funded • Highly-trained AZA zoo and aquarium staff (over 40,000 em- network of fully-trained and certified zoo and aquarium profes- ployees) from AZA’s 211 accredited zoos and aquariums in the sionals to respond to oil spills and other environmental disasters United States provide excellent animal care for more than that affect wildlife in all regions of the United States and possi- 800,000 animals encompassing 6,000 species (1,000 of which bly beyond. This network will work to maximize the number of are listed as threatened or endangered). animals – especially threatened and endangered species – that are • Initial pool of staff already trained in Incident Command rescued, rehabilitated and released. System (ICS 100/200 training) and Hazardous Waste Operations AZA has vetted this goal with officials within the USFWS, U.S. and Emergency Response Standard (HAZWOPER 24 or 40 hour Coast Guard, National Marine Fisheries Service, NOAA’s Office of training) protocols. Response and Restoration, USDA, the National Fish and Wildlife • Staff expertise and experience in oil spill and stranding re- Foundation, and Capitol Hill staff. In addition, AZA profession- sponse, including rehabilitation and release. Many staff have als from AZA institutions in the Gulf of Mexico and Alaska have extensive experience working within NOAA’s Marine Mammal provided invaluable information stemming from their past expe- Stranding Network and with compromised animals under the riences and ongoing involvements with oil spill response training jurisdiction of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). and actual deployment. All of the initial feedback has been posi- • Widespread geographic distribution of zoo and aquarium tive. AZA is now engaged in the following strategic approach: responders to allow for rapid deployment. There are AZA- • Develop inventory of resources and requisite training of AZA accredited zoos and aquariums in 47 states and in 49 out of the community for disasters in offshore, freshwater and terrestrial 50 largest metropolitan areas. environments. • Readily available trucks, boats, crates, water systems and other • Work directly with industry to incorporate AZA certified re- resources for rescue, triage, de-oiling and transport operations. sponse personnel and protocols into their oil spill response • Extensive mobile and permanent treatment, holding, rehabili- plans. tation and quarantine space. • Work with the relevant federal agencies to establish protocols • Centralized communication and coordination operations. for AZA responders for oil spill and other wildlife stranding • Extensive staff experience in data-logging and record-keeping. disasters in the United States that are within the jurisdiction of • Unmatched education and outreach capabilities to more than the federal government. 180 million AZA zoo and aquarium visitors. • Establish an advisory panel of zoo and aquarium professionals • Logistical support. to work directly with federal officials and industry on response One of the ways AZA is doing this is by creating an Association- protocols and guidelines. wide environmental disaster response prototype. Conceptually, • Establish ICS and HAZWOPER training schedules for inter- this prototype will focus on identifying and coordinating AZA ested zoo and aquarium staff. animal care professionals who are fully trained, motivated and able • Ensure zoo and aquarium staff attendance at Regional Response to respond to a wide-variety of environmental disasters anywhere Team and Area/Subarea Committee meetings across the coun- in the United States and possibly beyond. For instance, in the try. Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, thousands upon thousands of well- In future editions of CONNECT, we will continue to update mem- meaning volunteers showed up throughout the Gulf to help with bers on this initiative and the work of our regional prototypes and de-oiling wildlife. However most of these volunteers lacked the our federal partners. If you or your institution are interested in requisite training certifications required by OSHA to work with getting more involved in this initiative, please send a note to Steve hazardous materials such as oil. Thus, professionals with both the Olson, AZA vice president of federal relations at [email protected]. correct training and prior response experience were in relatively STEVE OLSON IS AZA’S VICE PRESIDENT OF FEDERAL RELATIONS May 2014 CONNECT 9 exploring new ideas We know you take them seriously, which is why we take their premium nutrition seriously. products uniquely Exotic animal nutrition is formulated our business. For over 20 years, we’ve collaborated with zoo and exotic animal professionals to conduct extensive research perfecting to improve nutrition of exotic exotic species. Our animal products are proven to nutrition support the health and longevity of exotic animals. Sign up for our newsletter today at MAZURI.COM/AZA14 ER ET INA V R and be the first to learn about: & Y O P O R O Z F Y Latest Product Information E B S • S D I E O T N • Product Promotions S A U L R S • Tradeshows & Events T ©2014 PMI Nutrition International. All Rights Reserved. May 2014 CONNECT 11 FORGING PARTNERSHIPS TO PROTECT AFRICA’S ELEPHANTS By Jim Breheny ssociation of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)- The government of China undertook a similar ivory crush soon accredited institutions host more than 181 after and other countries including Gabon, Philippines, France, Amillion guests at our parks each year. Not sur- Chad, and Belgium followed suit. Though largely symbolic, the prisingly, zoo goers have a keen awareness of, and crushes sent an important message, especially coming from the interest in, conservation. Ninety four percent report two largest markets for ivory products in the world. And just this that “learning how people can protect animals and past month, the Obama administration announced a federal ban the habitats they depend on,” is an important take- on most ivory sales. away message. The partnership between WCS and AZA on 96 Elephants brings together experts, resources, and institutions that will champion AZA member institutions are indisputably invaluable resources these magnificent mammals. The campaign and its growing coali- for public education, but together we must do more. It is no longer tion of zoo and aquarium partners provide a critical opportunity to enough to point out threats, issues and challenges to conserva- engage millions of park visitors in the mission to save elephants. tion efforts as we have done in the past. Today’s visitors are more Inspiring and informing guests while they are in our parks sophisticated, informed and action-oriented. In addition to pro- leads to empowerment and conservation action once they leave our viding information, we must empower people to act and to effect gates. Already, AZA-affiliated 96 Elephants partners have called on change once they leave our parks and go about the business of their supporters to contact and sign on-line petitions to senators, asked daily lives. Congress to ban domestic ivory sales, worked to influence state The zoos and aquariums of 2014 are in a unique position to legislation, offered financial support, and educated the public advocate for conservation. Together we can be a powerful voice for about the connection between ivory consumption and poaching. conservation and help to relate the care, appreciation and concern Our partners and supporters also extend beyond zoos and for diverse species that visitors experience in our parks to species aquariums. At a school in the Metropolitan School District of in the wild and the places where they live. Lawrence Township in Indiana, a group of environmental stud- This advocacy is needed now to confront the crisis facing one ies students made posters, signed a petition and wrote brochures of our most iconic animals: the elephant. Since 1980, elephant on behalf of 96 Elephants. Just this week, Save the Elephants, a numbers have plummeted by 76 percent throughout Africa. An London-based nonprofit, and Wildlife Direct, based in Kenya, estimated 35,000 elephants were slaughtered by poachers in 2012 joined the campaign. And this is just small sampling of examples. alone. And though it may be hard to imagine, the U.S. is a major The contributions of our campaign partners are making a dif- destination for illegal ivory, the price of which has skyrocketed in ference for elephants in the wild. recent years due to growing demand in Asia. There are currently 166 African elephants and 142 Asian el- The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) established the 96 ephants in the AZA Elephant TAG/SSP. This leads one to the sober- Elephants campaign last fall to stop the killing, trafficking, and ing realization that a greater number of elephants are killed every demand for elephant ivory. The campaign, named for the aver- four days in the wild than exist in AZA-accredited zoos. age number of African elephants killed each day, brings together By bringing to light the tragic story of the industrialized slaugh- NGOs, citizens, and governments to stop the illegal ivory trade and ter of thousands of elephants for their ivory, we can engage and drive action on behalf of saving these magnificent animals. motivate millions of zoo and aquarium visitors across the United Among the goals of the 96 Elephants campaign are: securing States to protect elephants at this critical moment in history. If we a U.S. moratorium on illegal ivory; bolstering the protection of get this right, we might just spark a broader movement to conserve African elephants with increased support for park guards, high- all of our planet’s species and finite natural resources. That would tech tools to track and identify poachers, and the use of dogs be a proud legacy for zoo professionals to leave for future genera- trained to sniff out smuggled ivory; and educating the public tions. about the link between ivory consumption and the slaughter of elephants. JIM BREHENY, WCS EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND GENERAL DIRECTOR OF THE WILDLIFE CONSERVATION SOCIETY’S At the 2013 Clinton Global Initiative last September, leaders ZOOS & AQUARIUMS AND DIRECTOR THE BRONX ZOO, from several African range-state nations called for the rest of the CURRENTLY SERVES ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS world to adopt trade moratoria on all commercial imports, ex- FOR THE ASSOCIATION OF ZOOS & AQUARIUMS ports, and domestic sales of ivory products until African elephant PHOTOS © JULIE LARSEN-MAHER populations are no longer threatened by poaching. In November, AZA joined WCS as one of the first partners in the 96 Elephants campaign, and of the campaign’s 126 current part- ners, 109 are AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums. These members have combined efforts to work in conjunction with Congress and local and state governments to strengthen U.S. ivory trade laws and close existing loopholes in U.S policy. Also in November, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) publicly destroyed six tons of confiscated elephant ivory to show its commitment to tackling illicit wildlife trade. AZA is working with the USFWS and member institutions to use this pulverized ivory in educational exhibits around the country. May 2014 CONNECT 13 EXHIBIT FABRICATION you dream Whatever exhibit you dream to create, COST artisans deliver stunning realism and authenticity combined with durable, weather-resistant, animal-safe construction methodologies. These exhibits will immerse your we deliver visitors in environments that are interactive, sensory stimulating and truly authentic. Let COST’s 50+ years of experience and commitment to construction excellence deliver your dreams. we deliver Photo courtesy of KC Zoo Jackson, WI | Orlando, FL | Seattle, WA | Winnipeg, MB | 800-221-7625 | www.costofwisconsin.com | [email protected] BE CONNECTED THE AZA MARKETPLACE Building a network of AZA Commercial Members AZA community connections. For questions on how to Collaboration and information search, how to use various exchange with colleagues. features and more, please feel Exploration of product and free to contact Gina Velosky service providers. at [email protected]. May 2014 CONNECT 15 epresentatives from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and its Federal Raccredited zoos and aquariums have been busy on Capitol Hill. In September AZA President and CEO Jim Maddy testified before the House Subcommittee on Fisheries, and State Wildlife, Oceans and Insular Affairs about the Department of the Interior’s proposal to use a Categorical Exclusion under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for adding Legislative species to the Lacey Act’s list of injurious wildlife. Maddy emphasized that AZA and accredited zoos and aquariums take the issue of invasive species seriously and work closely with federal agencies to conserve the Roundup nation’s wildlife heritage. The strict stan- dards required by AZA accreditation and the strong commitment by zoo and aquarium AZA on Capitol Hill professionals to the safety of animals and the public means that accredited zoos and aquariums have not been responsible for the introduction and spread of injurious wildlife into the United States. However, some injuri- ous wildlife listings, without the proper vet- ting and opportunity for public notice and comment, could have a deleterious effect on the ability to build and sustain zoological collections. In October the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) organized a Capitol Hill reception in recognition of National Bison Day. AZA, as well as several AZA- accredited institutions, are members of a coalition supporting efforts to recognize the important role of the North American bison in American history and culture. On 29 October the Senate unanimously passed a resolution officially designating 2 November 2013, as National Bison Day. Legislation in the House of Representatives, H.R. 3400, the National Bison Legacy Act, would adopt the North American bison as the national mammal of the United States. This biparti- san legislation has been introduced by Representatives Clay (MO-01), Fortenberry (NE-01), Serrano (NY-15), and Noem (SD-At Large). Please visit the AZA Legislative Education Center at www.congressweb.com/aza to send a letter to your representatives encouraging them to cosponsor this legislation. For more information about the coalition, please visit www.votebison.org. In February, zoo and aquarium profession- als traveled to Washington, D.C., to participate in the American Alliance of Museums' (AAM) annual Museums Advocacy Day. Once again this year, AZA participated as a co-convenor for the event. The first day of the program included sessions with agency officials, legislative briefings, and the “how-tos” of Capitol Hill meetings. Day two began with a Capitol Hill breakfast featuring remarks by organizational lead- ers including Jim Maddy before participants visited 16 CONNECT May 2014 By Jennifer Keaton scores of congressional offices to urge their representatives and boring of killer whales in aquariums and sea parks with a fine senators to support funding for the Office of Museum Services, the of at least $250,000. Multinational Species Conservation Funds, and STEM education • Treatment of elephants (N.Y.) – Legislation was introduced programs. For more information about the program, issues briefs, which would prohibit the use of certain devices including and congressional awards, please visit www.aam-us.org/advocacy/ a bullhook, ancus, whip, electricity, or any shocking device museums-advocacy-day. related to the treatment of elephants. The legislation only ex- Congressional Zoo & Aquarium Caucus empts veterinarians from performing necessary treatment on an elephant. The bipartisan Congressional Zoo and Aquarium Caucus in the • Possession of dangerous and wild animals (Md.) – House of Representatives is co-chaired by Representatives Spencer Legislation was introduced to restrict the possession of dan- Bachus (R-AL), Dan Lipinski (D-IL), Michael Grimm (R-NY), and gerous and wild animals. Lois Capps (D-CA). The caucus currently stands at more than • Orcas (Calif.) – Legislation was introduced to end perfor- eighty members. mance-based entertainment for all orcas in California, end cap- The goals of the caucus are to: tive breeding programs and the export and import of genetic • Recognize the impact of America’s zoos and aquariums as they materials, end the import and export of orcas into and out of promote science education, conservation and family recre- the state, require that all current captive orcas be retired to sea ation; pens if available, allow for retired orcas to be on display but • Foster appreciation for the work of zoos and aquariums as they not perform, and limit the amount of human interaction with inspire stewardship, caring and discovery through entertain- orcas. ing exhibits and conservation and education programs; and As Congress and state legislatures debate the important issues • Promote zoos and aquariums as centers of excellence in science that affect AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums, it is critically im- and environmental education, and natural partners with public portant that you make your voices heard. The AZA staff in Silver schools. Spring can assist you with your efforts to advocate and educate. Many retirements are expected this year so it is more important than ever for you to encourage your representative to join the cau- cus. Please visit www.congressweb.com/aza to send a letter to your JENNIFER KEATON IS AZA’S representative encouraging him or her to join the caucus. VICE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESSIONAL AFFAIRS State Activity Although partisan gridlock has slowed down the pace of legisla- tive activity in Congress, legislatures across the country have been active this year on issues important to AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums. Since January, AZA has been working with institu- tions in several states on issues of concern including: • Shark finning (Neb.) – AZA sent a support letter for LB 921, which would prohibit the possession, selling, offering for sale, trade, or distribution of a shark fin or any product containing shark fin except for AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums and accredited museums. • Endangered and threatened species (Pa.) – AZA issued a statement in opposition to HB 1576 and SB 1047, which would make the listing of endangered and threatened species in Pennsylvania more difficult by removing the independent decision-making authority of the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and Pennsylvania Game Commission. • Possession of certain wild animals (Wis.) – AZA sent a let- ter regarding AB 703 which recognizes the high standards met by zoos and aquariums accredited by the AZA by providing an exemption for AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums, entities that have a contract under a Species Survival Plan® (SSP) of the AZA for the breeding of species listed as threatened or en- dangered under 16 USC 1533 (c), and zoos that are operated by a municipality or county. The letter supported the inclusion of this narrowly defined exemption for zoos and aquariums and opposed efforts to broaden this exemption to facilities that do not meet the high standards of AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums. • Possession and harboring of killer whales (N.Y.) – Legislation was introduced which would prohibit the possession and har- May 2014 CONNECT 17 ZOOREADY CONFERENCE By Yvonne Nadler he Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Tspends a great deal of time discussing the issue University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, the Zoo of sustainability. We all know that AZA profes- Animal Health Network and AZA have worked collaboratively on a sionals are dedicated to maintaining and increasing variety of projects to prevent and mitigate the impact of foreign an- the numbers of animals in our collections through imal diseases, should they affect zoological collections. A meeting careful planning. However, there are other key com- held March 5th-6th, 2014 at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology ponents to sustainability. What if there was an out- Institute (Smithsonian-George Mason School of Conservation break of a foreign animal disease that threatened our campus) reviewed those efforts and continued the discussion be- collections? What if a disease was detected in wildlife tween concerned stakeholders and regulators. There were two key or agricultural species close to your zoo? How would objectives for this meeting: that impact the day-to-day operations of your facil- • The meeting would review communication channels between ity? Is it possible that disease management would AZA, AZA facilities and other stakeholders in a foreign ani- involve quarantine, preventing the critical movement mal disease incident. With new organization within USDA of animals for breeding? What would happen to your Veterinary Services and Animal Care, this was a timely topic. bottom line if your facility was forced to be closed • The meeting would strengthen relationships between state vet- for the foreseeable future? And finally, the most erinarians and AZA facilities. State veterinarians have tremen- frightening aspect: is it possible that depopulation of dous authority and responsibility for managing disease events zoological specimens would be required to manage a for all species in their states. AZA and it member institutions disease outbreak? must be active partners with them before a disease event or other types of emergencies occurs. | 18 CONNECT May 2014 The meeting was organized by the University of Illinois Zoo Ready project, led by Dr. Yvette Johnson Walker. Zoo Ready is a coopera- tive agreement with the University, funded through USDA/Animal Care under the direction of Dr. Jeleen Briscoe. The agenda for the meeting included: a discussion on emergency response communica- tion channels; presentations on the new organization within USDA Veterinary Services and Animal Care; and a walk-through of out- comes from previous zoological preparedness exercises. It was also an excellent opportunity for many stakeholders to network. The meeting targeted stakeholders in District 1 of USDA’s newly defined Service Districts. District 1 includes states along the eastern seaboard from North Carolina to Maine. A number of state vet- erinarians in District 1 were invited, and shared elements of their disease preparedness plans with zoological personnel. Members of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians who work within AZA institutions lent their zoological medical expertise to the discussion. Also included in the meeting were state emergency re- sponse personnel, USDA Veterinary Services field and emergency response personnel, USDA animal care specialists, and other AZA zoological staff members. The Department of Homeland Security was represented, as well as USDA Wildlife Services and United States Geological Survey. All these agencies and more may be involved in disease management or other incidents that would occur in an AZA facility. Each participant brought unique perspectives to the meet- ing. While the final report from this meeting is still being prepared at this time, critical talking points and action items were identified. These include: • Zoological institutions need to think about disease issues that may affect public visitation, and species continuity. This directly affects overall business continuity. • There should be more opportunity for discussion between zoos, aquariums and state veterinarians. • State veterinarians need help in understanding where exotic species are located. While it is easy to locate an AZA institution, other collections may not be easily identified, yet what is hap- pening there could impact an AZA facility. • Incident Command System training is a tool that will be used in organizing a disease response in your facility. • Our zoological professionals need to provide state veterinarians with ‘sound science’ for decision-making for our species. • USDA and state veterinarians had not considered that certain specimens are not owned by AZA institutions. The management of pandas, kiwi, and other high profile species have international implications that many of the meeting attendees have never considered. • Other animal industries (dairy, pork, etc.) realize that economic impact of business disruption due to disease or other incident is substantial. Zoological institutions should consider learning more about business continuity planning. It is hoped that this meeting will lay the foundation for a broader national effort and serve as a template for future collaborations between zoological institutions, their State Animal Health officials and the United States Department of Agriculture and other stake- holders. YVONNE NADLER, DVM MPH, IS THE ZOOLOGICAL COMMUNITY LIAISON FOR ZOO READY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE May 2014 CONNECT 19 20 CONNECT May 2014 May 2014 CONNECT 21 MEMBER NEWS DETROIT ZOOLOGICAL York. He received his bachelor’s degree Advisory Groups while SOCIETY NAMES from the University of Illinois at Urbana- also being an open DIRECTOR OF CONSERVATION Champaign. water scuba instructor CINCINNATI ZOO ADDS FIVE with PADI for over 20 NEW MEMBERS TO ITS ANIMAL years. With Mitchell’s MANAGEMENT TEAM experience in develop- ing collection plans for The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden in aquatics and reptiles, Cincinnati, Ohio, has promoted two senior he will provide the Ron Evans keepers to curator and added three new support and insight staff members to their animal management needed that will help team. The two keepers promoted to cura- his new staff to fulfill RON EVANS tors are , curator of primates, their objectives. Winton Ray and , curator of invertebrates. The most recent BOB LESSNAU New hires include , director addition is Robert JEFF MITCHELL of animal collections, , cura- Webster, as curator of ROBERT tor of reptiles and aquatics, and birds. Webster comes WEBSTER , curator of birds. These old and to the Cincinnati Zoo new faces will help the Cincinnati Zoo con- with over 25 years of tinue its history of being an industry leader experience in the Jeff Mitchell Paul Buzzard in animal care and management. field of ornithology at The first new face at the Cincinnati Zoo both the San Antonio is Bob Lessnau, director of animal collec- The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) Zoo in San Antonio, tions. Lessnau comes to the Cincinnati Zoo in Detroit, Mich., has appointed PAUL Texas, and the Toledo with over 30 years of experience in the field BUZZARD, PhD, as director of conservation. Zoo in Toledo, Ohio, of animal husbandry at both the Wildlife He will oversee the DZS’s field conserva- where he most recently Conservation Society (WCS) in New York, tion programs and help advance this sig- served as their cura- N.Y., and the Detroit Zoo in Detroit, Mich., nificant part of the organization’s mission. tor. Webster also serves where he most recently served as their Buzzard joins the DZS from China as an AZA Steering curator of mammals. Throughout his ca- Exploration and Research Society in Hong Committee member reer, Lessnau has proven to be a trusted Kong, where he served as a field biologist for both the African leader as he understands the importance Winton Ray for six years, managing research on wild Penguin and Cinereous of creating a shared vision and enjoys see- yaks, Tibetan antelopes, red pandas and Vulture Species ing employees grow and develop in their snow leopards, among other species. Survival Plans® (SSP). careers. As the new Director of Animal “Paul brings a wealth of on-the-ground Alongside being the Collections, Lessnau will bring his con- field research experience with species from secretary for the AZA siderable experience and leadership style all parts of the world, a number of which Columbiformes and to help the Cincinnati Zoo attain new and are conservation priorities for the DZS. Piciformes Taxon exciting goals. We’re excited to have him help further our Advisory Groups and Jeff Mitchell, curator of reptiles and conservation philosophy and policy and Avian Population aquatics, comes to the Cincinnati Zoo strengthen and expand our existing field Advisor to the Avian with over 15 years of experience in the conservation projects,” said DZS Chief Life Scientific Advisory field of herpetology and aquatics at both Robert Webster Sciences Officer SCOTT CARTER. Group (ASAG), Webster the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Ill., and Buzzard earned his doctoral degree has published several the Brookfield Zoo in Brookfield, Ill., to from Columbia University Department avian studbooks. become the new curator of reptiles and of Anthropology and the New York Ron Evans has been promoted to curator aquatics. Mitchell serves as an Association Consortium in Evolutionary Primatology of primates. Evans was previously the pri- of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Steering and his master’s degree in anthropol- mate team leader at the Cincinnati Zoo. He Committee member for the Chelonian, ogy from Columbia University in New has 30 years of experience at the Cincinnati Fresh Water Fish, and Marine Fish Taxon 22 CONNECT May 2014 member news 23 CONNECT CONNECT ACKNEY May 2014 2014 May H OD In 2013 Johnson won first place for In 2013 Johnson won In the Zoo post Johnson will assist years at WECT-TV, the NBC affiliate in the NBC affiliate WECT-TV, years at Johnson began Wilmington. At WECT moving reporter before as a government role as Columbus into his most recent County reporter. and was runner up Best General News Best and Year The of both Reporter for among Division Reporting Investigative as selected by news editors II stations & Digital with the Radio Television of the Carolinas. News Association Manager R Public Relations in writing news releases, conducting in writing news releases, conducting media and VIP tours, serving as official Zoo spokesman to the media, editing and in production of Zoo publications television series, syndicated the Zoo’s The Zoo FileZ. Gavin Johnson Gavin of of OHNSON , who held the position for J AVIN G ILLESPIE G Johnson is a native of Waycross, Ga., of Waycross, Johnson is a native OM 15 years before retiring in June 2013. of Augusta State and a 2006 graduate years of experi- He has eight University. ence as a television reporter and week- the last six including end news anchor, the Strategy II team at the Zoo. The qual- Zoo. the II team at the Strategy visitor engagement ac- ity of dedication, Ray provides that tivities, and leadership success of the is critical for the long-term Zoo. Cincinnati Wilmington, N.C., as its spe- new public relations cialist. Johnson replaces T GAVIN JOHNSON GAVIN ZOO N.C. NAMED TO PUBLIC RELATIONS POST Zoo Carolina North The has N.C., in Asheboro, named has been hired to join the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) as the senior vice of Zoos and Aquariums has been hired to join the Association ERNON V Prior to joining GolinHarris, Rob was a senior account supervisor at Hill & Knowlton. There he Hill & Knowlton. There was a senior account supervisor at Prior to joining GolinHarris, Rob OB ROB VERNON JOINS AZA AS SENIOR VICEPRESIDENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS SENIOR ROB VERNON JOINS AZA AS R president of external affairs. Prior to joining AZA, Vernon was the executive director with GolinHarris was the executive AZA, Vernon president of external affairs. Prior to joining worked for a variety of clients providing both traditional At GolinHarris, Vernon D.C. in Washington, including the Centers for Disease Control and public policy counsel and social media communications Industries for the Blind. He Sargento Foods and National Infosys, the Florida Lottery, and Prevention, office, and team) in the Washington was also a co-lead of the Connector community (the media relations and engagement for managing real-time communications office Bridge Chief, as the Washington serves a host of clients. Rob holds a M.B.A. in marketing from The George Washington University and a B.A. in political science from Valparaiso in political science from Valparaiso and a B.A. University George Washington in marketing from The holds a M.B.A. Rob In addition to U.S. Representative Green, he has also held senior policy and communications positions with former U.S. former with positions communications policy and senior held also has he Green, Representative U.S. to addition In Rob previously served as executive director of a non-profit organization, where he managed their national efforts including where he managed their national director of a non-profit organization, as executive previously served Rob Previously, Rob was the communications director on former U.S. Representative Mark Green’s Wisconsin gubernatorial Wisconsin gubernatorial Green’s Mark U.S. Representative director on former was the communications Rob Previously, Winton Ray has been promoted to University. University. Representatives Scott Klug and Chris Chocola, former Wisconsin Governor Scott McCallum, and numerous political cam- Scott McCallum, and numerous political Scott Klug and Chris Chocola, former Wisconsin Governor Representatives of Home Builders. Association the National as at as well paigns online and direct mail fundraising, grassroots mobilization and volunteer training. online and direct mail fundraising, grassroots mobilization campaign. There he led the day-to-day public communications efforts of the campaign, provided guidance on media messag- provided guidance There he led the day-to-day efforts of the campaign, campaign. public communications He also and place television, radio and Internet advertisements. spokesman and helped to develop ing, acted as the campaign in Wisconsin history. candidate by a statewide video blog the first ever created managed several accounts including Deloitte & Touche’s Federal and State Government Relations and Tax practices, as well practices, as well and Tax Relations Government Federal and State accounts including Deloitte & Touche’s managed several and Community Service and the for National Qualcomm, the Corporation for eBay, campaigns as traditional media relations of Dubai. government curator of invertebrates. Ray started of invertebrates. curator as an insectarium keeper in 2002 at Zoo and worked his the Cincinnati way up to becoming the head keeper in 2008, and most of the Insect World He has a strong recently a team leader. knowledge of the living residents and has pro- within the Insect World vided leadership for the Invertebrate Department, implementing the visitor engagement activities and serving on Zoo, working with over 35 species of 35 species working with over Zoo, with a special focus on the primates, a is also lowland gorilla. Ron Western American Gorilla member of the North the Gorilla SSP Management Group, the and Group, Behavior Advisory Maternal Advisory Group Ape Taxon holds Ron Management Committee. accountable for himself and his team of care for the standard setting a high primates. Zoo’s McRobertsSales specializes in the distribution of #1 Food Grade Frozen Fish and Seafood to Zoos and Aquariums around the world for animal consumption. ● No orders too small ● All items fit for human consumption ● Shipping domestically and internationally ● Product inquiries welcomed With a vast inventory we can help you with your specialized dietary needs: Anchovy Crevalle Jack Lake Smelt California Sardines Squid Kathi L. Davis President Blue Runner Clams Lobster Spanish Sardines Tilapia [email protected] Bonito Glass Minnows Mackerel Salmon Trout Michelle Davis Garis Butterfish Herring Mahi Shrimp Tuna Secretary/Treasurer Capelin Pacific Krill Mullet Silversides White Bait [email protected] Crab Superba Krill Pollock Silver Smelt Whiting PO Box 489 Ruskin, FL 33575 Phone 813.645.2561 Fax 813.645.2565 www.mcrobertssales.com 24 CONNECT May 2014 WHEN IT COMES TO ANIMAL WELFARE, WHO DOES WHAT? By Greg Geise animal welfare committee nimal welfare is a critical part of why the Ethics Board – Interprets AZA Code of Professional Ethics, AAssociation of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) investigates allegations, renders decisions, and prescribes sub- exists and why we are all committed to ani- sequent actions following ethics complaints including animal mals and their welfare. Welfare is a key aspect of welfare issues that have been formally submitted. many, if not most, of the 23 committees, commis- sions, and boards and the scores of Species Survival Accreditation Commission – Establishes, upholds, and Plans® (SSP), Taxon Advisory Groups (TAG), and raises industry standards including animal welfare through other cooperative efforts of the members of the its multi-faceted accreditation/certification process and evalu- AZA. ation. It monitors accredited institutions, maintains and writes professional standards and provides support relative to But who does what? What roles do our AZA standing committees accreditation including animal welfare. play in enhancing welfare and addressing welfare concerns? The individual purposes of the four committees most directly tasked Animal Health Committee – Ensures high quality and com- with animal welfare can be confusing and difficult to differentiate. prehensive animal health in member institutions through The thumb nail sketches that follow will help members differenti- input to animal management committees and support regard- ate each committee’s function is it relates to animal welfare. ing emerging disease issues. This is of course a key component of animal welfare. Animal Welfare Committee – Promotes a common understand- ing of animal welfare in the zoo and aquarium community, assists Although four committees have a common aspect of animal members in identifying and applying best practices in welfare, welfare, they each approach it from a different and compli- encourages development of and education about research projects mentary direction. Again, many other committees within and assessment tools for welfare, and works to influence public AZA overlap in some manner relative to animal welfare, but opinion about welfare. these are the four whose purposes are most directly connected to animal welfare. NOTE FROM NADJA WIELEBNOWSKI, CHAIR OF AZA’S ANIMAL WELFARE COMMITTEE: This is the second in a new series of articles about animal welfare and AZA’s Animal Welfare Committee. This series is intended to provide regular communications about the work of the animal welfare committee and to better inform AZA members about animal welfare-related news. This article aims to delineate the various roles of the AWC and several other AZA Board committees that are also concerned with the topic of animal welfare. May 2014 CONNECT 25 CONSERVATION SPOTLIGHT Houston Zoo t the 2010 Association of The Zoo’s conservation objectives are not just about saving AZoos and Aquariums (AZA) species, but about improving the lives of the local communities so Annual Conference, the Field they see the direct benefits of sustainable development and pro- Conservation Committee (FCC) set an as- gramming. Their programs are science-based but involve unique pirational goal that in three years, every personal partnerships that are sensitive to both cultural and eco- member institution would be dedicating nomic incentives. three percent of its operating budget “Zoos are in a unique position to connect people back to nature annually to field conservation. Each month, this feature will high- by immersing them in live animal habitats while telling compel- light the work of one of the zoos or aquariums that have achieved ling conservation stories. No other conservation organization in this goal and how they have made field conservation an integral the world can inspire and motivate as many people as AZA zoos part of the work they do. can, if we do it right,” says Rick Barongi, director of the Houston CONSERVATION EFFORTS Zoo. The Houston Zoo Wildlife Conservation Program was initiated in HOUSTON ZOO CONSERVATION FACTS 2002, just after the Zoo privatized from a city operated to an inde- • Houston Zoo employs six full-time Wildlife Conservation pendently operated entity. Conservation, along with animal care Program staff members. and guest service, became the three cornerstones of the Zoo’s new • Houston Zoo supports field conservation work in 15 countries organizational mission. Conservation is a continuum, from the an- across Africa, South East Asia and Central and South America. imal care provided at the Zoo to their efforts to save animals in the • Houston Zoo has involved nearly 50 of its employees in both wild. As is the case with most zoo-based conservation programs, local and international field programs since 2009. the ultimate goal is to save animals and their habitats. Houston • Breeding and reintroduction programs for the endangered Zoo does this by connecting people to Zoo animals, appealing to Houston toad, a Texas endemic, have seen more than 20,000 their hearts first, and then educating guests that they can make a adults and nearly 100,000 eggs go back to the wild since 2010. difference. 26 CONNECT May 2014 conservation spotlight 27 CONNECT CONNECT May 2014 2014 May www.houstonzoo.org/protect-animals. Not only does the Zoo donate significant dollars but they dollars significant donate Not only does the Zoo them partnerships in the region allow The Houston Zoo’s proj- conservation on Houston Zoo’s For more information Gorilla Doctors of the Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project in Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Gorilla Doctors of the and Conservation and GRACE Gorilla Rehabilitation Rwanda of Republic Center (GRACE) in the Democratic Education to 14 orphaned Eastern GRACE is currently home Congo. Gorillas. Lowland (Grauer’s) Zoo send organizations, both with positions board active have as- side with local project members and staff to work side by resource and messaging conservation like with activities sist offers a partnership in Rwanda A secondary effort design. works Heritage-Turambe, a group that with Conservation semester on every directly with 200 primary school students programming. education conservation the protection of both to focus resources in an area critical to apes and the local communities who are most af- these great to protecting wild- fected by the decisions made in response stories conservation life in the region. The Zoo wants all their of their involvement to be told through the direct personal to complement team, combining expertise and dedication a part of creating programs in the field. This means being to a happy ending and these stories and seeing them through future. a brighter ects visit: Conservation Action Campaigns have been created to been created have Action Campaigns Conservation visitors with at-home 2.1 million annual engage the Zoo’s include top- to benefit wildlife that actions they can take to plastic reduction ics like cellphone recycling drives, to protect reduces marine debris, and palm oil awareness Asian wildlife. The Zoo’s Attwater’s prairie chicken program, another prairie chicken program, another Attwater’s The Zoo’s 120 chicks in 2013 alone. and released hatched native, Texas for the Niassa Lion Project in Houston Zoo support of a new with the development Mozambique assisted training and center and skills environmental education 40 local villagers and educational capacity building for children and adults. opportunities for 250 The Zoo’s current focal programs relate directly to the 2015 current focal programs relate The Zoo’s opening of their new $29 million African Forest Gorilla Habitat. The Houston Zoo’s Wildlife Conservation Program has a long Wildlife Conservation The Houston Zoo’s range. their throughout apes great supporting of history with Bornean orang- Their initial, and ongoing efforts, began ex- in 2004. Since then the Zoo has greatly utan conservation (chimps ape conservation, panded their role in African great of Congo, Republic and gorillas) in the countries of Senegal, Congo. of Republic and the Democratic Uganda Rwanda, with both the They include leadership roles in partnerships HOUSTON ZOO AND GREAT APE AND GREAT ZOO HOUSTON CONSERVATION • • CGF UPDATE From Spears to Cell Phones Resolving Human-Carnivore Conflict in Tanzania’s Ruaha Landscape By Amy Dickman anzania’s little-known Ruaha landscape supports some of the most important carnivore populations left in the Tworld, including over ten percent of all remaining wild lions, the world’s third biggest population of endangered African wild dogs, and one of East Africa’s largest cheetah populations. However, these carnivores rely heavily upon village land, where they cause significant problems by attacking local stock. Such attacks cost people around 18 percent of their annual income – a huge amount when most people live on under two dollars per day. The situation is worsened by the fact that villagers see very few or no direct benefits from carnivore presence – in fact, the only benefits recognised were that young men from the Barabaig tribe received local accolades and cattle if they speared lions. Additionally, people were not aware of the global significance of the Ruaha area or any reason to conserve large carnivores, and were unsure of the best methods to protect livestock. Therefore, villagers frequently speared, snared and poisoned these threatened species – in 2011, in just one small village close to Ruaha National Park, over 35 lions and other large carnivores were killed due to conflict with local people. Effectively resolving this conflict is an urgent conservation goal, so in 2012, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Conservation Grants Fund (CGF), supported by Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund (DWCF), granted $17,600 to our team at the Ruaha Carnivore Project (RCP), in order to improve the situation. RCP found it extremely hard at first to gain the trust of the Barabaig tribe, who are traditionally very secretive and wary of outsiders. After nearly two years of doing all the ‘right’ things, like community meetings and approaching elders, we were almost ready to give up as we seemed to be getting nowhere. However, then we installed a solar panel at camp – and suddenly the Barabaig approached us, as they wanted to charge their cell phones. We would never have imagined that such a modern invention would be the bridge between us, but it enabled us to slowly communicate with the Barabaig, learn more about their situation and develop plans to improve it. To reduce attacks, we used CGF funds to help predator-proof over 100 livestock enclosures, with 100 percent success at preventing attacks. Villagers who predator-proofed their enclosure received access to high-quality veterinary medicines, as disease kills more stock than depredation does, so this improved household economic security. In addition, we provided training on best-practice livestock protection to over 400 households, and held educational workshops about carnivore ecology, kill identification and conservation. We held DVD nights and took villagers into Ruaha National Park – as everyone at zoos will know, seeing animals first-hand is incredibly important for changing attitudes. We also developed community benefit programs, such as the ‘Simba Scholarships’, so that pastoralist children could attend secondary school, twinned village schools with international ones through the ‘Kids 4 Cats’ program, and equipped a local healthcare clinic focused on maternal and infant care. By late 2013, carnivore attacks had reduced by 70 percent, significantly more people recognised direct benefits from wildlife presence, and most importantly, there was a reduction in carnivore killings by over 75 percent in the core study area. This shows that this kind of program can have really important impacts, and now we need to continue the work and extend it over a wider area. AZA CGF support has made a huge difference in Ruaha, and has significantly improved the situ- conservation grants fund conservation ation for both people and predators, so thank you all for helping make it happen. For more information please see www.ruahacarnivore- project.com or www.facebook.com/pages/Ruaha-Carnivore- Project/116298238442772 AMY DICKMAN IS KAPLAN SENIOR RESEARCH FELLOW IN FELID CONSERVATION ZOOLOGY, UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD THE RECANATI-KAPLAN CENTRE 28 CONNECT May 2014 May 2014 CONNECT 29 chair of the board 30 CONNECT MESSAGE FROMTHECHAIROFBOARD Walt DisneyParks andResorts Vice President,Animals,ScienceandEnvironment J to betterengagewithour180millionvisitors.Thanksallofyou,we certainlyhave amazingstoriestotell! We’re alsoworkinghardertocoordinate ourconservation storiesandinfusestorytellingintomoreofwhat we do, allowing us gether toengagefamiliesandchildrenbeforeaftertheirvisit. Company andAZA,supportedbyagrantfromtheDisneyWorldwide Conservation Fund – isanotherwaywe arecoming to- The newprogramthat willhelpzoosandaquariumsestablishon-sitenature clubs–apartnershipbetween theDisney exploring howAZAcanhelpitsmembersaddressthiscriticalissue. Zoo in Colorado Spring, Colo. The task forceis developing recommendations for an AZApositionstatement onpalmoiland Members oftheAZAPalmOilTask Forcemetinmid-AprilfollowingasymposiumonpalmoilhostedbyCheyenneMountain to sustainableseafood(e.g.,SeafoodWatch), Africanelephants(96Elephants),andthepalmoilcrisis. voice and,asaresult,even morecloutaswe strive tosave speciesandengagepeople.Great examplesarethecampaigns related skilled at developing campaigns witheducation componentsthat unifyzoosandaquariums.Thesecampaigns give usone In additiontoafocusoneducation informalprogramsforyouth,groupsanddayguests,we alsoaregettingincreasingly what agreat way tospreadconservation awarenesswithstoriesaboutrealpeople andrealprojects. Much ofoureducational effortsfocusonconservation workthat ourstaffand staffat otherzoosandaquariumsaredoing– as partofaschoolfieldtrip. year-round inamazingnumbers.TheAZAstafftellsmethat 12millionschoolkids(Pre-KthroughGrade12)visituseachyear Right now, manyofyouarepreparingtowelcome summercampers.And,ofcourse,schoolkidsvisitzoosandaquariums zoo educator wastalkingaboutsnakes,andIthought,“Iwantto do that.” I went throughevery education programthat thezoooffered,andIcanstillrememberdayduringsummercampwhena May 2014 ACKIE O GDEN , P H D hometown zoo (the San Diego Zoo in San Diego, Calif.) as inspiration for my own career choice. I think conservationists. AsImentionedwhenbecamechairinSeptember, Iconsidermyexperiencesat my institutions have onourvisitorsisenormous,includinghelpingtocreate thenextgeneration of As youknow, theeducational impactthat Association ofZoosand Aquariums (AZA)-accredited gaging people,whichI’d liketoaddresshere. talks more about in his message on page 3, and our education efforts aimed at saving species and en- This issueofCONNECTfocusesontwovery importanttopics:government affairs,whichJimMaddy Greetings AZAmembersandstakeholders, births & hatchings 31 CONNECT OO Z OORLY D ENRY H S ' MAHA O © NSTITUTE I IOLOGY B ONSERVATION C MITHSONIAN S © May 2014 2014 May 32 PAGE , CONTINUED Keepers follow strict hand rearing Keepers With less than 500 left in the wild, guidelines that allow the chicks to only allow the guidelines that consume ten percent of their body Rockhopper feeding. each at weight times a day and eat chicks are fed five is made a fish and krill formula that fresh daily and packed with all the vitamins and minerals the growing small fish chicks need. They also eat filets until they progress to whole fish. Since the chicks consume ten percent each feeding, at of their body weight important for the keepers to it is very one has Each chick apart. tell them Five rockhopper penguin chicks re- Five Henry Omaha’s at cently hatched Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha, between hatched The chicks were Neb. 2013. Typically 23 and 27 December, adult birds will raise their own chicks, hand raised due to but these eggs were in the exhibit. increased activity levels OMAHA’S HENRY DOORLY DOORLY HENRY OMAHA’S AND AQUARIUM ZOO FIVE WELCOMES ROCKHOPPER PENGUIN CHICKS Dama gazelles are the rarest of all ga- zelles and are listed as critically endan- used to range gered. Their population widely across northern Africa, but is now limited to Chad, Mali and Niger. and repro- SCBI conducts veterinary research in order to maintain ductive of endangered animal populations species. Animal care staff at the Smithsonian Animal care staff at (SCBI) Institute Biology Conservation the announced Va., in Front Royal, The gazelles. Dama male three of birth born on the 18th, 20th, were calves their 24-hour At 25th, of February. and exam, the first calf weighed neonatal third and second the and pounds 11 each. 12 pounds weighed calves DAMA GAZELLES BORN DAMA SMITHSONIAN AT BIOLOGY CONSERVATION INSTITUTE BIRTHS & HATCHINGS BIRTHS BIRTHS & HATCHINGS foot marked with a non-toxic paint to allow These petite black primates weigh just Fla., and White Oak Conservation Center keepers to identify them. Once old enough, one-to-two ounces at birth, and grow to 14- in Yulee, Fla., also contributed to the grow- the chicks will have wing bands just like to-18 ounces as adults. The baby is the third ing collection of frozen Indian rhino sperm the other adult penguins on display. for its parents, and a birth planned by the stored in CREW’s CryoBioBank®. In a par- Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Callimico Species Survival Plan® (SSP). allel effort at the Cincinnati Zoo, CREW sci- Aquarium’s rockhoppers are southern The Goeldi’s family, including parents and entists, veterinary staff and rhino keepers rockhopper penguins. Currently, 317 rock- two older sisters born last year, are all on initiated a project aimed at characterizing hopper penguins reside at 17 Association of display in the rainforest exhibit inside the the reproductive physiology of the female Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) institutions in Marie Osterbuhr Aviary building. Indian rhino and developing AI techniques. North America. In the wild, these species Goeldi’s monkeys live in the tropical for- These efforts were rewarded with two reside in the South Atlantic, Indian and ests of South America’s Western Amazon term pregnancies at the Cincinnati Zoo in Pacific oceans. They are currently listed as basin. Listed as Vulnerable in the wild, the 2007 and 2010, but sadly, neither calf sur- vulnerable, with a declining population, on species is threatened by deforestation and vived. CREW’s Reproductive Physiologist, the International Union for Conservation poaching. Dr. Monica Stoops, who leads the Indian of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List due to fisheries, ENDANGERED INDIAN rhino effort adapted the procedures for loss of habitat and oil spills. RHINOCEROS CALF PRODUCED implementation at off-site facilities and BABY GOELDI’S MONKEY BORN BY ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION expanded the program to include female AT THE LEE RICHARDSON ZOO WITH CRYOPRESERVED SEMEN Indian rhinos at the Wilds in Cuberland, Ohio, and at the Montgomery Zoo. The Goeldi’s monkey family at the Lee The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s In 2011, Dr. Stoops started working in Richardson Zoo in Garden City, Kan., re- Center for Conservation and Research partnership with Dr. Jack Kottwitz from the cently welcomed a new addition with the of Endangered Wildlife (CREW) in Montgomery Zoo to artificially inseminate birth of a third baby to parents Domingo Cincinnati, Ohio, and the Montgomery the Zoo’s 12-year-old female rhino who was and Sucre. Born on 31 May, the tiny infant Zoo in Montgomery, Ala., announced the a proven breeder on an extended breed- is doing well. birth of a healthy male Indian rhino calf ing loan from the San Diego Wild Animal produced by artificial in- Park in San Diego, Calif. The Zoo’s initial semination (AI). This birth attempts to breed the female naturally with represents the first surviv- ! ! the resident male resulted in significant ing calf of any rhino species aggressive interactions between the two, produced by AI in a U.S. zoo suggesting they were behaviorally incom- and is the culmination of patible. Although the female failed to con- # &154' 123%1111 years of research, teamwork ceive following the first two AI attempts, and perseverance. a pregnancy was confirmed following the In 1999, CREW scien- " third AI performed with the female under tists teamed up with the standing sedation in February 2012. The ! animal staff at the Wilds in frozen-thawed semen used for the AI had Cumberland, Ohio, in a col- been collected at the Wilds in 2004, and laborative effort to develop stored at -320°F in CREW’s CryoBioBank !$ 0652 semen collection and cryo- in Cincinnati for eight years before it was preservation techniques for brought to Alabama, thawed, and used in & $' () this rhino species. After the AI procedure. The Montgomery Zoo * # several years, the appro- staff carefully monitored the female’s preg- + , priate methodologies were nancy over the 15-to-16 month gestation ! "# established, and CREW period and on 5 June 2013 she successfully #$# reached out to other zoos gave birth to a healthy calf. with genetically valuable “Everyone at the Cincinnati Zoo, espe- male Indian rhinos. Many " cially the scientists at CREW, are incredibly of those zoos, including the excited to watch this calf grow up,” said Bronx Zoo in New York, N.Y., Dr. Stoops. “The scientific significance of % $$$ Montgomery Zoo, Lowry the birth and the successful upbringing by Park Zoo in Tampa Bay, Jeta are a lifetime of work in the making. 32 CONNECT May 2014 births & hatchings 33 HILDS C HRISTY C : REDIT C HOTO P CONNECT OO Z INCINNATI © C © May 2014 2014 May The SSP identified the importation of new founder stock as an objec- an as stock founder new of importation the identified SSP The This is a significant birth and scientific achievement for and scientific achievement birth This is a significant tive in the 2012 Population Analysis & Breeding and Transfer Plan. On in the 2012 Population tive 12 Orlando imported, on behalf of the SSP, with the support of Sea World July 5, the Saint Louis Zoo in Saint Louis, Mo., born or brought to captive of the birds were tawny frogmouths from the Darling Downs and Adelaide Zoos in Australia. All after months four just November, 2 On wild. the into back released be not could that chicks orphaned as zoos Australian the This inter-regional collaborative the Saint Louis Zoo. at chick from these new founders hatched the first the importation, effort has resulted in the status change of the North American population from a “Yellow” to a “Green” program. The Tawny frogmouth (Podargus strigoides) was until recently managed The Tawny size Survival Plan® (SPP) with a population AZA Species as a “Yellow” of 143 individuals distributed among 55 institutions. Since the 1970s, like many other avian populations, frogmouth population, the Tawny from the United exhibited periods of growth and decline. Importations as increased focus Kingdom in 2008 and Australia in 2009 as well Orlando and San on breeding by individual institutions (Sea World, decline, but a large the trend of population helped reverse Antonio Zoo) caused birds in the population number of aged and post-reproductive continued concern for the long-term viability of the population. THE SAINT LOUIS ZOO, SEA WORLD ORLANDO AND THE TAWNY AND THE TAWNY ORLANDO WORLD SEA ZOO, LOUIS THE SAINT IMPORT TO PARTNERS WITH AUSTRALIAN COLLABORATE FROGMOUTH SSP NEW FOUNDERS CREW, the Montgomery Zoo and the Indian rhino Species the Montgomery CREW, since the Indian rhino is an endangered Survival Plan® (SSP) sperm banks and AI are that species. The calf demonstrates into the manage- can now be integrated valuable tools that With Indian rhino population. for the captive ment strategy in captivity in North America and ap- only 60 Indian rhinos 2,500 remaining in the wild, successful breed- proximately the genetic rhino pairs is important to maintain ing between healthy and self- necessary to keep a population diversity in cap- attempts breeding natural sustaining. Unfortunately, aggression be- Indian rhinos frequently result in severe tive the male and female. Thus, behavioral incompatibility tween AI the population. can hinder the genetic management of and infus- this hurdle now offers a method for overcoming rhinos into the ing genes from non- or under-represented CREW’s population. AI and banking sperm rhino Indian gener- the years by several program has been supported over donors, grants from the Morris Animal ous private and most Rhino Foundation, and International Foundation Leadership Grant from the Institute by a National recently, of Museum and Library Services. We were honored to work closely with the Montgomery Zoo honored to work closely with the Montgomery were We proud to help introduce this are we staff to do the AI and baby to the world.” 34 CONNECT May 2014 TEXAS STATE AQUARIUM JOINS FORCES WITH FLINT HILLS RESOURCES TO ENGAGE STUDENTS AND FAMILIES IN STEM EDUCATION By Leslie Peart The STEM Challenge vision, mission, and priority projects. Open Space Technology5 is Statistics paint a positive outlook for STEM (Science, Technology, singular in its ability to discover, capture, and prioritize best and Engineering, and Math) careers. STEM job growth will continue to “next” practices. Other highlights of our plans include advisory outpace non-STEM positions for years to come, and STEM workers panels comprising a broad cross-section of stakeholders, includ- are better paid and less likely to experience joblessness than their ing formal and informal educators, parents, K-16 school adminis- non-STEM counterparts1. Yet a Brookings Institute report tells trators, STEM professionals, partner organizations, and Aquarium us that “in the average large metropolitan area, 30 percent of job members; teaching fellowships; STEM professionals in residence; openings are in STEM fields but just 11 percent of the population an expanded distance learning program; an approach that includes has a STEM degree”2. As a nation, we are not recruiting, retaining, increased relevance for learners; and contextual, experiential, and or training enough STEM students to maintain our competitive discovery-based learning. In other words, we are moving out of the edge in the global economy. classroom and leaving lecture behind through engaging experi- What are the barriers preventing students from exploring these mental methods. We look forward to sharing more in the coming fields? Forty-six percent of respondents to a Pew Research Center years. and Smithsonian magazine survey3 believe the main reason is that math and science are “too hard;” another 20 percent said science LESLIE PEART IS THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION AND CONSERVATION and math were “too boring.” No matter what the reason, in the AT TEXAS STATE AQUARIUM 2012 Program for International Student Assessment, American 15-year-olds were outranked in science by their peers in 22 of the 65 References participating educational systems5. 1. www.esa.doc.gov/Reports/stem-good-jobs-now-and-future An Exciting New Approach 2. www.brookings.edu/blogs/the-avenue/posts/2012/06/01- The need for improved STEM teaching and learning is indisput- science-oriented-society-rothwell able, and zoos and aquaria have a near perfect blend of assets to 3. www.smithsonianmag.com/ideas-innovations/How- showcase STEM in action – our animals and programs are anything Much-Do-Americans-Know-About-Science.html?utm_ but boring. With that in mind, the Texas State Aquarium (TSA) source=direct&utm_medium=printmagazine&utm_ and Flint Hills Resources (FHR) are uniting forces to create the campaign=2013-May&utm_content=pewpoll Flint Hills Resources Center for Excellence in STEM Education at 4. www.openspaceworld.org/cgi/wiki.cgi?AboutOpenSpace the Texas State Aquarium. Focused through the familiar lens of environmental education, together we envision a powerful new 5. http://nces.ed.gov/surveys/pisa/pisa2012/pisa2012high- emphasis on STEM practices and skills featuring the habitats and lights_1.asp animals of the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean that are featured at the Aquarium. Our new approach will improve STEM teaching, learning, and career recruitment in South Texas and beyond – an issue of importance to the Aquarium, Flint Hills Resources, and our community. Made possible by a generous $1 million gift by FHR, the Center will work over the next five years to provide leadership in the STEM education community, empower staff and area educators with best and “next” practices, demonstrate excellence in STEM and environmental education through an emphasis on science process skills, double program participation from 60,000 to 120,000 learn- ers per year, and produce measureable gains in environmental, marine, and general STEM literacy among all audiences. Center activities will kick off later this summer with a large community Open Space meeting to map the Center’s philosophy, May 2014 CONNECT 35 START DISCUSSIONS. INVITE COLLEAGUES. SHARE RESOURCES. GET CONNECTED. YOUR ZOO AND AQUARIUM ONLINE NETWORKING COMMUNITY Login at www.aza.org and click on My AZA Network. 36 CONNECT May 2014 May 2014 CONNECT 37 38 CONNECT May 2014 exhibits 39 CONNECT OO Z LORIDA F ENTRAL C © May 2014 2014 May live up to 25 years in the wild. Adult up to 25 years in the wild. live except for few predators giraffes have humans. lions, crocodiles, and “Giraffes are popular zoo animals zoo popular “Giraffes are Giraffes are found in NEW GIRAFFE EXHIBIT AT EXHIBIT AT NEW GIRAFFE ZOO THE CENTRAL FLORIDA GARDENS & BOTANICAL Zoo & Botanical The Central Florida Monroe, Fla., an- Gardens in Lake of a new giraffe nounced the addition ex- The February. exhibit opening in to two male hibit will be the home Emba. Rafiki is a giraffes, Rafiki and Lion Country two year old male from Fla. Rafiki is Safari in Loxahatchee, a 19-year is Emba “friend.” for Swahili old male from White Oak Conservation Fla. Emba is a retired Center in Yulee, Adding Emba to our Zoo ben- breeder. by allowing efits the genetic diversity a new male to be added to the herd Center in White Oak Conservation at Jacksonville, Fla. are excited to add these ani- and we mals to our collection,” Zoo said Joe Montisano, “One of our goals CEO. the Zoo is to educate at our guests of all ages and to make the zoo ex- perience a memorable one.” areas of Africa scattered in Chad from ranging the north to South and the south in Africa in the west from Niger east. the Somalia in to savan- in live Giraffes and grasslands, nas, open woodlands. tallest the are Giraffes terrestrial animal living on Earth. Females gen- of erally reach a height up to 14 feet while males of up can reach a height may Females feet. 18 to to 1,500 to up weigh while pounds 1,800 up in at males can weigh 3,500 to 3,000 to pounds. Giraffes can Helzberg Penguin Plaza cost $15 The City Zoo has commit- The Kansas will serve as serve will Plaza Penguin Helzberg ted to sustainable building practices on all LEED Certification by attaining new construction projects. The roof of make the stage for 64 solar panels that producing array photovoltaic a up Recycled power. hours of 15-kilowatt percent of all makes up 20 material construction the in used materials 20 per- of this exhibit. Additionally, extracted were cent of the materials or manufactured within 500 miles of City Zoo (such as the archi- the Kansas tectural precast concrete panels on the building exterior). A minimum of 75 percent of all construction waste was from the landfill and taken to diverted Landscaped areas a recycling facility. and open space promote biodiversity and adapted plant species selected for the need for ir- landscaping negate rigation. The long anticipated Helzberg Penguin The long anticipated City Zoo in the Kansas Plaza is open at started ar- Penguins Mo. City, Kansas the Kansas at riving on 26 September will Helzberg Penguin Plaza Zoo. City a dozen Humboldt be home to around water 40 cold penguins and nearly penguins. do- million. It was funded by a private from the Helzberg Family; a $1 nation League Junior million lead gift from the in Missouri, City, Kansas of Greater honor of their 100th anniversary; contributions from the Zoological District consisting of Jackson and Clay Counties in Missouri; and the diligent efforts of Zoo fans young and old, who pen- collected gifts, birthday up gave nies and wrote letters to bring pen- City. guins to Kansas HELZBERG PENGUIN PLAZA HELZBERG PENGUIN THE OPENS AT ZOO CITY KANSAS EXHIBITS Need To Re-dress Your Nest? s? Contact the Nets Unlimited team to help make your e thi it lik budget dollars go further during these difficult hib economic times. We offer a wide range of materials & n Ex ave a installation options to spruce up your existing facility. H We specialize in exhibits, pedestrian paths, children’s play areas, bridges and animal enrichment products. Let us help you quickly convert your old, dull, and worn exhibit into something Vibrant and exciting. Regardless of your budget, contact us today to see what we can do for your zoo. G i W ant o ne l h this (Houston Zooik e G ? Hornbill exhibit) NETS Unlimited, Inc. 866-NETS-R-US (638-7787) ◊ www.netsunlimited.com ◊ AZROC #236070 • • • Imagining the Alter NET ives • • • Need To Re-dress Your Nest? Contact the Nets Unlimited team to help make your budget dollars go further during these difficult economic times. We offer a wide range of materials & Have an Exhibit like this? installation options to spruce up your existing facility. We specialize in exhibits, pedestrian paths, children’s AQUATIC LIFE play areas, bridges and animal enrichment products. Let us help you quickly convert your old, dull, and worn exhibit into something Vibrant and exciting. SUPPORT Regardless of your budget, contact us today to see what we can do for your zoo. FOR AQUARIUMS AND ZOOS G i Pentair Aquatic Eco-Systems can provide everything you need to support the aquatic life in your zoo or large-scale aquarium, including: DESIGN Receive expert advice on exhibit concept development, design and layout. SUPPLY We offer pumps, filters, sterilization equipment and PENTAIR AQUATIC more, and can provide custom skid filtration systems ECO-SYSTEMS and control systems. SPARUS™ PUMP WITH CONSTANT FLOW TECHNOLOGY™ INSTALLATION The smartest pump ever invented! Our installation team includes master plumbers and With the world’s first project managers who fully understand the special aquaculture pump to deliver needs of aquatic system construction where animal a CONSTANT user-defined flow rate, you'll see energy welfare is critical. savings and remarkably lower operating costs PROJECT CONSULTATION each year. The pump motor Want one like speed self-adjusts to h We draw on our extensive field experience to make sure maintain the constant flow this? G your system is not only functional but also easy to use rate setting, even as system conditions change. and maintain. Unlimited, Inc . Web: PentairAES.com Email: [email protected] ◊ ◊ Phone: 407-472-0525 2395 Apopka Blvd, Apopka, FL 32703 NET Imagining the Alter ives © 2014 Pentair Aquatic Eco-Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved. ANNOUNCEMENTS AZA COURSE INSTRUCTOR AZA PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSES CALL FOR SERVICE Below is a list of Professional Development Courses. Details about each course, including specific topics taught in each, are available Dear Colleagues, at www.aza.org/professional-training/. In addition to committee service, another valuable opportunity • Amphibian Management School to participate in AZA’s initiatives is through the Professional • Animal Training Applications in Zoo and Aquarium Settings Development Program. As the Chair of the Professional • Avian Management, Biology and Conservation Development Committee, I would like to invite you to apply to • Conservation Education: Effective Program Design become an instructor for an Association of Zoos and Aquariums • Creating Successful Exhibits (AZA) Professional Development Course. • Crocodilian Biology and Captive Management AZA’s courses are team-taught by experienced and knowledge- • Developing an Institutional In Situ Conservation Strategy able professionals from the zoo and aquarium industry. Instructors • Institutional Records Keeping are expected to present detailed, factual information to facilitate • Managing Animal Enrichment and Training Programs class discussions and to express ideas that are clear and meaning- • Managing for Success: Career Development ful to a diverse audience and relate to real-world examples. • Managing for Success: Organizational Development Instructors are responsible for preparing course materials, • Population Management I: Data Acquisition and Processing submitting outlines and PowerPoints by course deadlines, and • Population Management II: Data Analysis and Breeding teaching in a team setting. Costs incurred by instructors for travel, Recommendations meals, and lodging in conjunction with professional development • Principles of Elephant Management courses are reimbursed by AZA. • Principles of Program Animal Management Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and the names and contact information of two professional references CALL FOR NOMINATIONS to [email protected] by 1 June 2014. Cover letter should indicate Wendy Fisher Award for Professional Excellence which of the existing course(s) you are interested in teaching, demonstrated knowledge of the subject matter, related career ac- In 2004, the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) established complishments, and relevant teaching experience. Please also this award to honor those AZA commercial members who have indicate if there are specific topic areas you could address. demonstrated outstanding character, leadership, professional ex- New instructors will be selected by the Professional Development cellence and distinguished service to AZA and fellow commercial Committee with input from the existing course instructors. Please members. The award is named for the first recipient, Wendy note that not all classes will be adding new instructors each year. Fisher. Only one recipient can be honored in any given year, and since the award criteria are lofty, it is anticipated that the award Sincerely, will not be awarded every year. SHARON JOSEPH, HOUSTON ZOO QUALIFICATIONS Chair, Professional Development Committee To qualify for consideration, a candidate must unquestionably meet the following criteria. Their company must be a commercial AZA COURSE INSTRUCTOR CALL FOR SERVICE member in “good standing” at the time the nomination is filed; he or she must demonstrate impeccable character and a distinguished REQUIREMENTS record of honorable service to AZA throughout his or her career; • Individual AZA membership. If you are not a member, you and be strongly committed to education, conservation, science, can join now through www.aza.org/membership-for-individuals/. recreation and the welfare of animals. You may then apply to serve. NOMINATION PROCESS • Commitment to teach a minimum of three consecutive ses- sions. (Most courses offered annually; some courses offered Nominations shall be submitted to the AZA Board President by no every other year.) later than 1 June of each year. • Selected applicants will be expected to provide evidence of sup- Nominations must be made by a member of AZA and supported port from their Director to participate. by at least one member of the AZA Board and submitted on the • Past participation as a student in the class preferred. AZA nomination form. • Preference given to those with prior teaching experience. For further details regarding qualifying criteria and the nomi- • Preference given to those members employed by an AZA- nation process, please visit www.aza.org. Nomination forms can accredited institution. be obtained from AZA’s website (www.aza.org) or from Barbara Pueschel at [email protected] or (301) 562-0777 ext. 226. 42 CONNECT May 2014 announcements 43 CONNECT May 2014 2014 May : ORM F By entering the contest you also represent, acknowledge you also represent, acknowledge By entering the contest ELEASE , all contest pho- contest all in CONNECT, publication for considered be To Model include people must be accompanied by AZA’s tos that by each person depicted. Download the Form signed Release Form (in PDF) here: Photo Release www.aza.org/AZAPublications/PhotoContest/ and license to use, display, reproduce, publish, transmit, and publish, reproduce, to use, display, and license in our maga- website, on AZA’s your photograph distribute grant Your materials. in any other promotional zine, and/or editions, any reprints, revised shall also apply to and license whether now or any media or format, works in or derivative other kinds of without limitation hereafter known, including media. print media and electronic is an original (i) the submitted photograph and warrant that the sole owner of all solely by you, and you are work created in and to your photograph, including title, and interest right, photograph as of your publication (ii) AZA’s the copyright; or title, or infringe any right, herein will not violate authorized of your publication or entity; (iii) AZA’s interest of any person or publicity of privacy any right violate photograph will not obtained have you that and tort in liability other any create nor individual person a valid model release from any identifiable, (iv) you are not a party who is the subject of the photograph; to any contract or ar- to and your photograph is not subject would conflict with your permission herein; rangement that against AZA harmless and hold indemnify to agree (v) you and as a result of any any damages, losses, or expenses occurring claimed breach of warranty. R with “Photo Contest” in the subject line. with “Photo Contest” in the subject line. UBMISSION S : FOR : : EADLINE ORMAT ORMAT ICENSE Submissions should include the name of the photographer, include the name of the photographer, Submissions should of the picture, and the species, the date the AZA institution, Only one photo entry will be accepted the equipment used. Pictures can so send in your best image. per photographer, you and zoo or aquarium scenes – if include animals, people, send it in. good cover, think it will make a D 2014 AZA PHOTO CONTEST PHOTO 2014 AZA months of or the last three be taken in 2014 Photos must AZA-accredited institution. an or volunteers at 2013 by staff ap- the winner will judge the photos, and staff will CONNECT exceptional photos Other December 2014 cover. pear on the magazine. The photos may also inside the will be highlighted other promotional materials. and/or website appear on AZA’s F By entering the contest, you grant to AZA, and its successors its and AZA, to grant you contest, the entering By the non-exclusive, right worldwide, perpetual and assigns, The deadline for entries is 15 September 2014. The deadline for entries is 15 September F JPG, TIFF or EPS; 300+ dpi and 9”x12” in size (jpgs TIFF or EPS; 300+ dpi and 9”x12” JPG, preferred). will be accepted Send to: Both electronic and hard copy images All submissions – though electronic images are preferred. not be acknowledged become the property of AZA and will to Tim Lewthwaite at or returned. Send electronic images [email protected] Hard copies may be mailed to: 2014 Photo Contest; Tim Photo Contest; Hard copies may be mailed to: 2014 8403 Colesville Lewthwaite; AZA Publications Manager; Suite 710; Silver Spring, MD 20910-3314 Road, L 44 CONNECT May 2014 member updates 45 CONNECT May 2014 2014 May [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] NEW/REINSTATED NEW/REINSTATED MEMBERS COMMERCIAL Cricket Farm, Inc Five Points 4715 Trout Lake Road 19529 PA Kempton, Email: Phone: (484)325-0655 www.fivepointscricketfarm.com A. Waidelich Primary Contact: Lynn Cricket Farm, Inc. is a com- Points Five feeder crickets of live mercial grower (acheta domestica) specifically for the zoological and wholesale distribution segments of the exotic pet industry. International, LLC Taiga 751 Cornell Avneue 19026 Drexell Hill, PA Email: Phone: (610)955-3306 www.taiga-international.org Cechvala,M. Steven Contact: Primary AIA Planning, Master Architecture, Construction Management, Sustainable Systems Engineering, Sustainable Vision Planning Vantiv Hill Drive 8500 Governor’s OH 45249 Cincinnati, Email: Phone: (513)900-3386 www.vantiv.com Primary Contact: Jason Morris For 40 years, our team of committed pro- fessionals has made us one of the most intrusted and respected organizations as well the payment processing industry, largest PIN debit acquirer. as the nation's is the one partner for all your pay- Vantiv ment processing needs. Supervisor, San Diego Zoo Supervisor, Oregon Zoo Manager, and Director of Administration, Lowry Park Zoo Tampa’s Aquarium State Texas Development, Society – Chicago Zoological Aquatics, Brookfield Zoo Park Zoo & Gardens State Lowry Park Zoo Tampa’s Williams Park Zoo Roger Outreach Manager, Greater Los Greater Outreach Manager, Angeles Zoo Association Aquarium State John G. Shedd Services Coordinator, Aquarium Bay and for Evaluation Coordinator San Antonio Zoological Resources, Society South Carolina Training Coordinator, Aquarium Aquarium Zoo Rouge Defiance Zoo & Aquarium Point NEW PROFESSIONAL NEW PROFESSIONAL MEMBERS FELLOW Kristin Bankson, Operations Tamara Health & Safety Dahl, Occupational Rob Chief Financial OfficerElizabeth Hennig, Vice President of Kettering, ‘Rocky’ Paul of Herps and Curator Snider, Andrew T. Living Desert Director, Adrian C. Stiteler, VP Marketing and Sales, Trinka Tansley, Behaviorist, Vint Virga, Veterinary Dr. L.J. Stevens, Group Sales & Community Stevens, L.J. Texas Manager, Suggs, Campaign Robert Thornton, Volunteer Bridget Lynn Biologist I, Aquarium of the Bryan Tom, Education Jennifer Torpie-Sweterlitsch, Visitor Engagement Meghan Weinpress, Defiance Zoo & Point Welsh, Telena BREC’s Baton Jen Wilson, Animal Tech, DVM, Chief Veterinarian, Wolf, Karen for the Environment, North Carolina Zoological Society and Development, Great Plains Zoo & Plains Zoo Great and Development, History Delbridge Museum of Natural Audubon Aquarium of the Americas Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens Zoological Society of Florida Atlanta Supervisor, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo Omaha’s Supervisor, & Aquarium Safari Park Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens Manager, Cape May County Park Zoo Cape May County Park Manager, Elmwood Park Zoo of Education, Polar Bears International Polar of Education, Specialist, Little Rock Zoo Specialist, Little Rock Safety, Toledo Zoological Gardens Toledo Safety, Aquarium Newport Aquarium Country Safari Houston Zoo Scientist & Director, Marine Mammal Scientist & Director, Aquarium Marine Vancouver Research, Science Center Michelle Anne Slavin, Director-UNITE Jennifer Ross, Director of Marketing Jennifer Ross, Jessica Lynn Roberts, Sea Otter Trainer, Sea Otter Trainer, Roberts, Jessica Lynn Jessica L. Moran, Full Time Keeper, Los Jessica L. Moran, Full Time Keeper, William W. Moore, President & CEO, Moore, President & CEO, William W. Josh Meyerchick, Primate Keeper, Zoo Keeper, Josh Meyerchick, Primate Zach Mellender, Guest Services Zach Mellender, Christine McRobbie, San Diego Zoo Christine McRobbie, Shannon Lee McDonald, ZOOlab Keeper, Shannon Lee McDonald, ZOOlab Keeper, Hannah MacQueen, Operations Laura Lynn Laudenslager, Educator, Educator, Laudenslager, Lynn Laura Leah Knickerbocker, Assistant Director Assistant Leah Knickerbocker, Erin Harrison, Oakland Zoo Elephant Jason Kauntze-Cockburn, Brett Golightley, Assistant Director of Brett Golightley, Teresa Giannini, Aviculturist, National Giannini, Aviculturist, Teresa Becky Echtenkamp, Husbandry Aide, Husbandry Becky Echtenkamp, Athena DelSolar, Zookeeper II, Lion Zookeeper II, Athena DelSolar, Kathi Culbertson, VP Human Resources, Culbertson, VP Human Resources, Kathi Lawrie Arends, National Aquarium Lawrie Arends, National Senior Research Lance Barrett-Lennard, NEW PROFESSIONAL MEMBERS AFFILIATE WELCOME NEW MEMBERS NEW WELCOME Institutions, Partners, Accredited Conservation Professional Fellow, new Professional Affiliate, welcome AZA is pleased to warmly Members. Facilities and Commercial Certified Related MEMBER UPDATES MEMBER 46 CONNECT May 2014 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS index of advertisers Company Website Phone Page # A Thru Z Consulting and Distributing, Inc. www.athruzcages.com 520-434-8281 37 American Sealants, Inc. www.amsealinc.com 970-523-6001 36 Animal Specialties www.animalspecialties.com 800-782-3766 38 Aqua Logic Inc. www.aqualogicinc.com 858-292-4773 29 Cemrock Landscapes, Inc. www.cemrock.com 520-571-1999 46 CLR Design www.clrdesign.com 215-564-0250 44 Corners Limited www.cornerslimited.com 800-456-6780 34 COST of Wisconsin, Inc. www.costofwisconsin.com 800-221-7625 15 Dan Inject Dart Guns www.daninjectdartguns.com 979-203-6735 24 Fauna Research, Inc. www.faunaresearch.com 845-758-2549 20 GLMV Architecture, Inc. www.glmv.com 316-265-9367 11 Go Ape www.goape.com 800-971-8271 17 Madewell Products Corporation www.madewell.net 800-741-8199 44 Mariculture Technologies International www.LiveBrineShrimp.com 386-345-3333 32 McRoberts Sales Co., Inc. www.mcrobertssales.com 813-645-2561 24 MIG, Inc. www.migcom.com 510-845-7549 18 Milliken Meat Products Ltd. www.millikenmeat.com 905-415-0060 21 Nebraska Brand www.nebraskabrand.com 800-445-2881 Back Cover Neptune-Benson, Inc. www.neptunebenson.com 800-832-8002 19 Nets Unlimited, Inc. www.netsunlimited.com 480-515-1300 40 Pentair Aquatic Eco-Systems www.PentairAES.com 407-472-0525 41 PMI® Nutrition International, LLC www.mazuri.com 800-227-8941 10 RodentPro.com www.rodentpro.com 812-867-7598 Inside Back Cover Skulls Unlimited International, Inc. www.skullsunlimited.com 800-659-7585 Inside Front Cover Timberline Live Foods www.timberlinefisheries.com 618-997-9311 14 Tom Tischler Bronze www.tomtischler.com 618-936-42702 39 Torre Design Consortium, Ltd. www.t-dcl.com 504-899-2932 6 Treetop Concept, LLC www.treetopconcept.com 407-710-3051 5 Triple A Brand Meat Company www.tripleabrandmeatcompany.com 800-437-5581 25 WDM Architects P.A. www.wdmarchitects.com 316-262-4700 43 Zoo Med Laboratories, Inc. www.zoomed.com 805-542-9988 2 May 2014 CONNECT 47 CALENDAR MAY 2014 12-15: Principles of Elephant Management II. Hosted by Annual Conference in Orlando brings together more than 2,500 lead- Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Orlando, FL. Principles of Elephant ers in the community to network with peers, explore ideas and best Management II focuses on the skills necessary to safely accomplish all practices, share successful programs, and learn new technologies and SAVE THE DATE of the AZA-required elephant behavioral components. Live training services. Attendees are guaranteed to be challenged with vibrant demonstrations and hands-on experiences will be utilized to combine speakers from inside and outside the community, expert led program- the teaching of advanced elephant principles with best occupational ming, face-to-face meetings with colleagues, more than 150 service providers in the Exhibit Hall, exciting networking and social events. MAY 2014 safety practices. To provide students with the most valuable hands-on and personalized experience, enrollment in this course is limited to 12 For more information, visit www.aza.org/annualconference 12-15: Principles of Elephant Management II participants. For more information about this course and other oppor- tunities to enrich your career, visit Hosted by Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Orlando, FL. Principles of www.aza.org/professional-training OCTOBER 2014 Elephant Management II focuses on the skills necessary to safely accomplish all of the AZA-required elephant behavioral compo- 6-9: Orangutan SSP Husbandry Workshop & Conservation Summit nents. Live training demonstrations and hands-on experiences will SEPTEMBER 2014 hosted by the Houston Zoo. The SSP Husbandry Workshop will be held be utilized to combine the teaching of advanced elephant prin- 8-12: The 41st Annual American Association of Zoo Keepers in conjunction with an Orangutan Conservation Summit at the Houston ciples with best occupational safety practices. To provide students (AAZK) National Conference is being hosted by Disney’s Animal Zoo. The meeting will feature a full day husbandry workshop on with the most valuable hands-on and personalized experience, Kingdom and the Greater Orlando AAZK Chapter in Orlando, Fla. Monday, October 6, 2014, covering topics pertaining to captive popula- enrollment in this course is limited to 12 participants. For more “Keepers Making a World of Difference” will highlight how zoo and tions including enrichment, training, and veterinary care, through information about this course and other opportunities to enrich aquarium professionals work to advance animal care and conserva- presentations, posters and panel discussions. The Conservation Summit your career, visit www.aza.org/professional-training tion. Core and specialized workshops, as well as paper and poster will begin on October 7, 2014 and focus on exploring the emergent sessions will engage delegates and focus on continuing education issues facing wild orangutans, as well as helping more zoos holding SEPTEMBER 2014 and professional development. There will be opportunities to orangutans commit to participating in the vital role of saving them. Houston is lining up key personnel involved in orangutan conservation network, share best practices, knowledge and techniques and be 12-18: This September, AZA is partnering with the International across Borneo and Sumatra for this very special event. For more info: Marine Animal Trainers’ Association (IMATA) for the premier challenged with husbandry, training, enrichment and animal welfare topics. Explore the possibilities together during social events, Zoo http://www.houstonzoo.org/orangutan-husbandry-workshop-and- event for zoo and aquarium professionals. Hosted by Disney's conservation-summit/ or contact [email protected]. Animal Kingdom, The Seas with Nemo and Friends, and SeaWorld Day and at the Exhibitor Hall. Orlando, the 2014 Annual Conference in Orlando brings together Arrive early for our Pre-Conference trip to Busch Gardens, hosted by more than 2,500 leaders in the community to network with peers, NOVEMBER 2014 the Tampa Bay AAZK Chapter or stay late and join the Association explore ideas and best practices, share successful programs, and of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the International Marine Animal 5-6: Lubee Bat Conservancy is hosting a 2-day fruit bat husbandry learn new technologies and services. Attendees are guaranteed to Trainers’ Association (IMATA) for the 2014 Annual Conference, course. This course will benefit individuals with an extensive back- be challenged with vibrant speakers from inside and outside the September 12-18, hosted by Disney’s Animal Kingdom, The Seas, and ground in fruit bat management as well as those with limited or no community, expert led programming, face-to-face meetings with Sea World Orlando. For more information, visit experience. Participants will learn husbandry techniques in a practical colleagues, more than 150 service providers in the Exhibit Hall, hands-on setting. Presentations will discuss biology, ecology, and con- www.greaterorlandoaazk.org or www.aza.org/annualconference. exciting networking and social events. For more information, visit servation issues affecting bats. Course material will also include anes- www.aza.org/annualconference. 12-18: This September, AZA is partnering with the International thesia, tissue sampling, training & enrichment, restraint techniques, Marine Animal Trainers’ Association (IMATA) for the premier event for and identification options. Lubee Bat Conservancy is a world- For more information about these zoo and aquarium professionals. Hosted by Disney's Animal Kingdom, renowned breeding and conservation center currently housing over courses and other opportunities The Seas with Nemo and Friends, and SeaWorld Orlando, the 2014 200 bats representing 12 species. For more information, contact Brian to enrich your career, visit Pope at [email protected]. www.aza.org/professional-training Calendar Submission Guidelines: To submit your listing for the CONNECT calendar, please e-mail or fax the event name, date, location and contact information to Tim Lewthwaite, AZA Publications Manager, at [email protected] or fax to (301) 562-0888. 48 CONNECT May 2014 Savings that Stack up! Discover what tens of thousands of customers — including commercial reptile breeding facilities, veterinar- ians, and some of our country’s most respected zoos and aquariums — have already learned: with Rodentpro.com®, you get quality AND value! Guaranteed. RodentPro.com® offers only the highest quality frozen mice, rats, rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens and quail at prices that are MORE than competitive. We set the industry standards by offering unsurpassed quality, breeder direct pricing and year- round availability. 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