The New Zoo: Open-range zoological parks (ORZPs) – an integral piece of the wildlife conservation puzzle THESIS Presented in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree Master of Arts in the Graduate School of The Ohio State University By Kelly Ann George, B.A. Graduate Program in Geography The Ohio State University 2011 Master's Examination Committee: Edward J. Malecki, Advisor Becky Mansfield Steve Moeller Copyrighted by Kelly Ann George 2011 Abstract Throughout the twentieth century, wildlife conservation has come to the forefront of government policy and social concerns. At the same time, animal welfare has gained press, especially in regards to zoological parks. In addition, the recognition of climate change has concretely demonstrated the interconnectedness of humans and the environment now and throughout history; most importantly this has shifted environmental issues from being a local concern to a global one, requiring global responsibility. The culmination of these trends has led to new understanding of the complexity of wildlife conservation, as well as the realization that no “magic bullet” exists as a solution. Rather, wildlife conservation requires many pieces working simultaneously. One integral piece, I argue, lies in the nexus of social concerns, public awareness of human-environment reciprocity, zoo evolution, and the necessity to construct a new wilderness – a place further down the continuum of zoos and protected parks, rather a blend of the two. This nexus is The New Zoo: the open-range zoological park (ORZP). To illustrate my argument, I present a case study involving three geographically dispersed ORZPs: the Wilds in the US, Fota Wildlife Park in Ireland, and Orana Wildlife Park in New Zealand. Through web research, personal visits, and personal interviews of key personnel, I present the parks‟ similarities, particularities, and abilities to play such ii an important role in wildlife conservation. Additionally, I discuss what ORZPs can tell us about wildlife conservation in the future. A future research agenda is also offered for the continued advancement of wildlife conservation. iii Dedication This thesis is dedicated to my husband, Richard, whose endless encouragement, love, and support made this work possible. iv Acknowledgments Dr. Edward Malecki, Advisor - I would like to thank Dr. Malecki for all of his patience and guidance through this process. His wisdom and encouragement are beyond compare and are greatly appreciated. Dr. Becky Mansfield, Committee Member – Dr. Mansfield provided invaluable input in literature selections. Her continual push for excellence propelled me to the next level, thank you. Dr. Steve Moeller, Committee Member – Dr. Moeller‟s expertise in Animal Science was crucial for an understanding of animal husbandry and genetic processes. In addition, his willingness to include me in the Animal Science study abroad tours, which allowed me to visit each park in my case study, was essential and for that too I will always be grateful. The Department of Animal Sciences, The Ohio State University – I am especially thankful for Cheryl Deisch, my supervisor, and Debra Gallagher, my co-worker, for the flexibility in my work schedule allowing for the continuation of my studies and for the moral support when my own confidence waned. v A heartfelt thank you to all of my interviewees; this project would not have been possible if not for your kindness and willingness to share your time and expert knowledge: Columbus Zoo & Aquarium - Jack Hanna, Director Emeritus Dale Schmidt, Executive Director Fota Wildlife Park – Dr. David Gibson, Former Director Lynda McSweeney, Education Manager Orana Wildlife Park – Nathan Hawke, Marketing, Public Relations & Visitor Services Manager Toby Johnson, Education Manager the Wilds – Dan Beetem, Director of Animal Management, Husbandry, and Health Dr. Evan Blumer, Executive Director vi Vita June 1985 .......................................................Franklin Heights High School 2006 to present ...............................................Accountant, Department of Animal Sciences, The Ohio State University 2008 and 2009 ................................................Resident Director, Human and Animal Interactions in Europe Study Abroad Program, Department of Animal Sciences, The Ohio State University 2009................................................................B.A. The Colleges of the Arts and Sciences, The Ohio State University 2010 ...............................................................Graduate Teaching Associate, Department of Animal Sciences, The Ohio State University 2010................................................................Recipient of Staff Advisory Council, College of Food, Agriculture, and Environmental Science, The Ohio State University Award for Innovation and Excellence vii 2010................................................................Resident Director, Human and Animal Interactions in Australasia Study Abroad Program, Department of Animal Sciences, The Ohio State University 2011................................................................Resident Director, Equine Studies in Europe Study Abroad Program, Department of Animal Sciences, The Ohio State University 2011................................................................Resident Director, Human and Animal Interactions in South America Study Abroad Program, Department of Animal Sciences, The Ohio State University Fields of Study Major Field: Geography viii Table of Contents Abstract ............................................................................................................................... ii Dedication .......................................................................................................................... iv Acknowledgments............................................................................................................... v Vita ............................................................................................................................... vii Fields of Study ................................................................................................................. viii Table of Contents ............................................................................................................... ix List of Tables .................................................................................................................... xii List of Figures .................................................................................................................. xiii Chapter 1: Introduction ...................................................................................................... 1 1.1 Origins of Wildlife Conservation ......................................................................... 3 1.2 Current Discourses ............................................................................................... 5 1.2.1 Global Environmental Management ............................................................. 5 1.2.2 Populist Discourse ........................................................................................ 7 1.2.3 Anthropogenic Effects .................................................................................. 8 1.3 Political Ecology ................................................................................................ 10 ix Chapter 2: New Public Awareness .................................................................................. 16 2.1 Governmental Policies ....................................................................................... 16 2.2 Establishment of NGOs ...................................................................................... 18 2.3 Animal Welfare Initiatives ................................................................................. 20 2.4 Where is the Wild? ............................................................................................. 22 Chapter 3: What is an Open-Range Zoological Park (ORZP)? ........................................ 27 3.1 Paradeisos to Menageries ................................................................................... 28 3.2 Classical Zoos .................................................................................................... 30 3.3 The Modern Zoo................................................................................................. 33 3.3.1 Species Survival Plan/European Endangered Species Program ................. 35 3.3.2 Research/Biodiversity ................................................................................. 42 3.3.3 Knowledge Production/Cooperation ........................................................... 44 3.4 The New Zoo: Open-Range Zoological Parks (ORZPs) .................................... 45 3.4.1 New Animal Management Philosophy ....................................................... 46 3.4.2 Ex-situ Populations ..................................................................................... 48 3.4.3 Public Education ......................................................................................... 49 3.4.4 Communities of Practice ............................................................................. 50 x 3.5 Constructing a New Wilderness ......................................................................... 51 Chapter 4: Case Study ....................................................................................................... 53 4.1 Methods .............................................................................................................