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International conservationists and the global zoo community are joining forces with the Indonesian national government for the first time to support species conservation in the country. Zoo associations in South-East Asia, Europe and North America are linking up with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), species specialists and departments of the Indonesian government. It’s likely that you have never heard of the species in question.
The banteng and anoa are wild cattle, while the babirusa is a pig; the teeth of males grow upward through the roof of the mouth and curve toward their eyes. All are threatened with extinction, with two species being listed classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This joined-up approach to conservation will bring together the skills of top zoos –conservation breeding, animal husbandry, veterinary treatment, education, population biology – with those of local experts, conservationists and sanctuaries on the ground. Conservationists call it the One Plan approach, with international zoos and local experts sharing knowledge to work in a more effective way.
This collaboration is truly international; the aim is to build healthy global zoo numbers as insurance against the loss of populations in the wild. Banteng, anoa and babirusa are all declining due to hunting for food and because of habitat loss.
Tony Sumampau, representative of the Indonesian Zoo Association, added: “While the global zoo community is working with partners on educational efforts related to over hunting, we can make sure that there is a viable global captive population whose genetic diversity represents the genetic diversity in the wild. Because space and resources in zoos in only one nation or region are limited, a global collaboration may be able to ensure that enough animals can be managed to form a sustainable captive population.”
“The Global Species Management Plan (GSMP) under the auspices of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) offers an unique platform for partners from the global zoo community, in this case the South-East Asian Zoo Association (SEAZA), the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) in North America, to work together with partners and authorities in Indonesia contributing to the conservation of these three species”, says Simon Tonge, chair of the WAZA Committee for Population Management.
James Burton, chair of the IUCNSSC Asian Wild Cattle Specialist Group, says: “This is the first global collaboration between zoos for the conservation of banteng, anoa and babirusa. While zoos cannot provide solutions for all conservation problems, they are one important piece in the puzzle. It will not be an easy task, but if we all work together, we have much better chances to save these species.”
Puja Utama, representative of the Indonesian government, adds: “Indonesia is very proud of its unique wildlife. We are confident that our national conservation action plans in combination with the efforts of the global zoo community can help to save threatened species in Indonesia.”
“Babirusas are an important icon of Indonesia’s unique biodiversity and a species with high socio-cultural value. The IUCN SSC Wild Pig Specialist Group is very excited about this opportunity to achieve real positive conservation outcomes for the species”, says Erik Meijaard, chair of this group.
The European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) welcomes the EU Action Plan against Wildlife Trafficking, which was released this Friday 26 February. The plan outlines the EU’s strategy on wildlife trafficking, a necessary step in reducing the role of Europe as a hub for the illegal trade in wildlife. Wildlife trafficking puts further pressure on endangered species all over the world and the EU, as the world’s biggest trade bloc has made clear its commitment to tackling this threat.
The EU Action Plan against Wildlife Trafficking has 3 clear priorities:
EAZA was at the launch event on 2 March and is looking forward to working with the European institutions and Member States closely on the reduction and eventual elimination of wildlife trafficking. The steps EAZA accredited zoos take in ensuring that they do not acquire wildlife illegally has been recognized in the TRAFFIC study which supports this EU Action Plan. EAZA and its members have been identified as being able to contribute extensive experience and knowledge to help fight this global threat to biodiversity. EAZA urges Member States to take the action plan seriously and allocate sufficient resources towards its implementation.
The EAZA Pole to Pole Campaign was officially closed during the EAZA Annual Conference Wroclaw last September. The campaign ran from September 2013 to September 2015 and it can be said great things have been achieved. Many people across the globe (not necessarily zoo visitors) actively joined in the Pull the Plug pledge as well as signing the petition. An overwhelming number 250 participating institutions worldwide signed up for the Pole to Pole Campaign and showed the commitment and involvement of the zoo community towards combating climate change. It was amazing to observe the enthusiasm of all colleagues who produced educational materials, including colouring sheets, factsheets, infographics, stickers, informational brochures and leaflets as well as logos. The resources were translated from English into seven European languages including Czech, Swedish and Polish.
Until this date (Mid-January 2016) 3123 individuals registered the pledge to pull the plug of a total number of 12214 electronic devices (which are not in use) for the upcoming months. This means that together we have saved 338762 kilowatt-hours of electricity (!) which equals:
The pledges of the participants were registered in a database and monitored throughout the course. Participants received occasional reminders and at the end of the pledging period successful participants received an exclusive digital photograph for personal use, taken by Daniel J.Cox/Natural Exposures and generously made available to EAZA Pole to Pole Campaign. The second year the ‘2 degrees is the limit’ petition initiative was launched. We’ve collected 17.160 signatures in total (both hand-written and digitally). The signatures, printed on recycled paper with a total weight of almost 10 kg, have been handed over to the Secretariat of the United Nations Framework Convention at the intergovernmental meeting on climate change in Paris in December last year. The Paris climate summit, COP21, resulted in an Agreement to curb climate change! Yet there is still is a lot to be done, but the global willingness to tackle the problem of rapid climate change is evident. Back in 2013, before the Pole to Pole Campaign kicked off, the campaign team identified and formulated the following objectives:
We can say this awareness campaign has been successful. But this is only the beginning, action is still required. That’s why it has been decided to keep the Pole to Pole Campaign website up and running, you can continue to take the pledge and resources will continue to be available at no cost. News and developments about climate change as well as new initiatives from the zoo and the conservation community will be published right here on the campaign site. Lots of zoos will continue spreading the word and organizing awareness activities. The campaign team would like to express gratitude to all zoos and individuals who were involved in making this campaign a success. Thanks to your effort and dedication we have been able to make a difference! Please continue to use energy wisely, visit the Pole to Pole Campaign website regularly and stay connected!
Amsterdam, The Netherlands, 12 January 2016
European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) member Odense Zoo have informed us of their intention to carry out dissections of animal cadavers over the weekend of 16-17 January 2016. The animals, a 9 month old male lion culled in 2014 and year old male sitatunga culled in 2015, will be dissected in front of a self-selected audience, with commentary from zoo guides and the veterinarian carrying out the procedures.
The animals were culled humanely and in accordance with EAZA’s Culling Statement (2015); their dissection cannot compromise their welfare. As we have noted previously, dissection of animals provides a useful scientific learning experience that is consistent with Danish cultural norms. While we recognize that some cultures are less comfortable than others with the display of animal cadavers, EAZA strongly supports the view that scientific education is an essential part of learning. Provided that animal welfare is respected, educators have the right to use all tools that are consistent with the culture in which they operate.
It is EAZA's position that culling of animals is one of a range of scientifically valid solutions to the long term genetic and demographic sustainability of animal populations in human care. This management tool is given equal consideration in the effective management of populations, along with others such as contraception and translocation. Each case is considered by the member institution on its own merits, and in conjunction with breeding programme coordinators where applicable. The animals in question were culled as the result of a comprehensive review of the options, and the procedures were carried out humanely and without compromise of the animal's welfare.
EAZA members contribute significantly to the protection of species and habitats across the world through breeding programmes and collaborative work with field conservationists, supported by scientific research. This is a challenging mission and one that requires them to make hard choices from time to time, including (where permitted) culling animals that cannot contribute to a sustainable population or further the goals of species conservation. EAZA members also strive to maximize the learning outcomes of visitors to our institutions, both in the fields of conservation awareness and more specific biological education; in this case, and bearing in mind the validity of the choice to cull the animals as well as the cultural context of Denmark’s educational system, we believe that the use of the animal cadavers for public education of anatomy is in line with these aims.
For further information please contact:
David Williams-Mitchell, Communications and Membership Manager, EAZA
david.williams-mitchell@eaza.net
+31 205200750
About EAZA: The European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) is the membership organisation of Europe’s most progressive zoological institutions, representing 389 institutions, federations, conservation partners and companies. EAZA works to promote cooperation between its members in conservation, education and research and is an active advocate of nature protection at the European Union. EAZA administers the world’s most comprehensive ex situ conservation programme portfolio, protecting 400 species through population management to insure genetic and demographic diversity over the long term, and providing an essential resource for integrated conservation worldwide
The EAZA Amphibian TAG is proud to present the EAZA Best Practice Guidelines for Sardinian brook salamander (Euproctus platycephalus). The information in these Best Practice Guidelines has come from a variety of sources including an extensive literature review, the experience of the authors and others in the captive husbandry, as well as direct observations of the species in the field. Amphibian husbandry is a rapidly evolving field and there are many aspects that still require further research.
Key husbandry points covered in this version are egg and larva sensitivity to mildew and pathogenic fungus, seasonal temperature regimes and monitoring and management of water quality. Please visit the EAZA website for these guidelines. For questions, please contact Ben.Tapley@zsl.org.
EAZA Best Practice Guidelines are produced by the various TAGs to merge expert husbandry knowledge and make it widely available within and outside the borders of the EAZA community. The guidelines show best practice standards, which EAZA zoos aim at achieving. They have been compiled using a template and made user-friendly to facilitate reading and the finding of necessary information. The guidelines are of particular interest when building new enclosures, when deciding upon the nutrition of animals or when seeking information on the biology of the species. EAZA members strive to house animals adequately to their needs and to give advice where needed to help further animal welfare. Please also check out the other Best Practice Guidelines currently available and view the EAZA Standards for the Accommodation and Care of Animals in Zoos and Aquaria.
The EAZA Best Practice Guidelines for Greater one-horned rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis) are now available on the public part of the EAZA website. These EAZA Best Practice Guidelines reflect the long-term experience gained for this species in human care and summarizes the latest information available. The first section focusses on the biology and field data of Greater one-horned rhinoceroses. This information is essential in order to translate the rhinos’ needs into good husbandry, good husbandry is needed to keep a healthy population in human care, which itself serves as a backup for the wild population. The information also shows that ex situ breeding efforts and support for in situ rhino conservation projects have become an important role for each zoo keeping rhinos. The current poaching crisis is dramatic and threatens the in situ populations. Cooperation between in situ and ex situ rhino conservation partners is more important than ever and it is one of the aims of the EAZA Rhino TAG to link in situ rhino conservation efforts with ex situ rhino conservation efforts.
The second section deals with the zoo management of this species. Greater one-horned rhinoceroses have been kept successfully in zoos for over sixty years now. The key husbandry issues in this species are chronic foot disease and aggressive behaviour during introduction for breeding. Both subjects are discussed in great length in this paper and ideas are presented on how to prevent foot problems and how to improve breeding. Specific attention is also paid to the feeding regime of this species.
EAZA Best Practice Guidelines are produced by the various TAGs to merge expert husbandry knowledge and make it widely available within and outside the borders of the EAZA community. The guidelines show best practice standards, which EAZA zoos aim at achieving. They have been compiled using a template and made user-friendly to facilitate reading and the finding of necessary information. The guidelines are of particular interest when building new enclosures, when deciding upon the nutrition of animals or when seeking information on the biology of the species. EAZA members strive to house animals adequately to their needs and to give advice where needed to help further animal welfare. Please also check out the other Best Practice Guidelines currently available and view the EAZA Standards for the Accommodation and Care of Animals in Zoos and Aquaria.
The EAZA Best Practice Guidelines for Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) are now available on the public part of the EAZA website. These guidelines reflect current knowledge of keeping this species in human care. The Guidelines include current knowledge of the species in the natural environment using the most recent taxonomic information. A section on management in zoos covers housing, feeding, social environment, breeding and behavioural management. As managed programmes rely on the movement of animals between zoos, advice on capture, handling and transport is provided. A veterinary section also provides information on current knowledge on medical care. It is essential that all keepers of these wonderful animals frequently refer to these Guidelines and contact Taxon Advisory Group (TAG) members with any concerns or queries.
EAZA Best Practice Guidelines are produced by the various TAGs to merge expert husbandry knowledge and make it widely available within and outside the borders of the EAZA community. The guidelines show best practice standards, which EAZA zoos aim at achieving. They have been compiled using a template and made user-friendly to facilitate reading and the finding of necessary information. The guidelines are of particular interest when building new enclosures, when deciding upon the nutrition of animals or when seeking information on the biology of the species. EAZA members strive to house animals adequately to their needs and to give advice where needed to help further animal welfare. Please also check out the other Best Practice Guidelines currently available and view the EAZA Standards for the Accommodation and Care of Animals in Zoos and Aquaria.
Amsterdam, Netherlands, 12 October 2015
The European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) has been informed by its member Odense Zoo, Denmark, that they will be conducting a dissection on a lion culled at the zoo nine months ago. The animal was culled after numerous attempts to find another institution of similar high welfare standards to take it were unsuccessful. The dissection will be carried out on Thursday 15 October in front of a self-selected audience of local people and away from general zoo visitors.
It is EAZA's position that culling of animals is one of a range of scientifically valid solutions to the long term genetic and demographic sustainability of animal populations in human care. This management tool is given equal consideration in the effective management of populations, along with others such as contraception and translocation. Each case is considered by the member institution on its own merits, and in conjunction with breeding programme coordinators where applicable. The animal in question was culled as the result of a comprehensive review of the options, and was carried out humanely and without compromise of the animal's welfare.
EAZA further takes the position that the dissection of an animal carcass for educational purposes is a valid choice of the zoo. It should be noted that public understanding of a species, including the challenges it faces in the wild and the nature of its anatomy can be well served by such demonstrations. EAZA recognizes that such demonstrations may not be as widely accepted in some cultures as in others; regardless, it should be noted that the culling itself was carried out transparently, without any reaction from the media and public of any country. The welfare of an animal that has been humanely culled cannot be compromised by the decision to dissect its carcass.
EAZA believes that the future of the natural world, which is in a crisis unparalleled in human history, can be secured only if younger generations are well educated and realistic about the challenges faced by ecosystems and species. Different countries may not agree on the best way to achieve this outcome; nonetheless, attempts by some in the media to generate moral outrage regarding this scientifically valid management tool and accepted educational opportunity will not serve to protect endangered species - and may even hinder educators and conservationists in their mission to do so. Consequently, EAZA welcomes all scientific approaches to increasing public awareness of nature that are appropriate for the country in which the zoo is located.
For further information please contact:
David Williams-Mitchell, Communications and Membership Manager, EAZA
david.williams-mitchell@eaza.net
+31 205200750
The World Association of Zoos and Aquaria will publish its new strategies on conservation and animal welfare. These documents are guiding strategies for all zoos and aquariums throughout Europe and across the World. You can view the full WAZA press release here:
http://www.waza.org/en/site/pressnews-events/press-releases/commit-care-and-inspire-waza-launches-two-new-strategies-on-animal-welfare-and-conservation-1444636794
EAZA's Journal of Zoo and Aquarium Research has just published its latest issue at http://www.jzar.org/jzar. We invite you to review the Table of Contents here and then visit our web site to review articles and items of interest.
Articles in this issue include:
Thanks for the continuing interest in our work,
Dr Eluned Price, Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust
EAZA welcomes the recent publication of the European Commission ‘EU Zoos Directive Good Practices Document’. Numerous stakeholders and experts contributed to this work, including EAZA members and the Executive Director. The document aims to support Member States achieve the overall objective of strengthening the role of zoos in the conservation of biodiversity.
It also specifically recognises the good initiatives of EAZA in strengthening contributions to biodiversity conservation. The work of EAZA Members in producing guidelines to help improve husbandry standards and professional competence in zoos, contributing to scientific research, and specific case studies from EAZA Members are used to highlight best practice.
This is a great example of the cooperative opportunities between EAZA and the European Union to support effective implementation of the EU Zoos Directive as well as demonstrating the high standards of EAZA zoos and aquariums across Europe. EAZA will continue to work with the European Union and Member States to build capacity and strive for zoos and aquariums to achieve their full potential for biodiversity conservation.
We have been informed by Zoo Krefeld in Germany of the theft of 1.2 golden lion tamarins (Leontopithecus rosalia). The animals were stolen from the facility in the night from 23 to 24 July and authorities have been notified.
Nonetheless, we would ask you to contact Dr. Wolfgang Dressen wolfgang.dressen@zookrefeld.de if you are approached regarding the possible purchase of these animals, or if any information comes to light that may help with the recovery of these animals.
An overview of identification information on the stolen animals can be found here.
(Picture of Golden Lion Tamarin by Valerie, Creative Commons)
The European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) is shocked to hear of the flooding of the city of Tbilisi and its zoo, which resulted in the death of three members of zoo staff, and the escape and shooting of many of its animals. Tbilisi Zoo is a Candidate for Membership of EAZA, and has been developing its facilities and working practices to meet the standards of the Association under the supervision of an experienced mentor.
EAZA members Prague Zoo (which has had experience of reacting to catastrophic floods) Jerusalem Zoo and Ramat Gan Safari Park, will be sending teams of keepers and veterinarians to Tbilisi to assist with efforts to recapture and contain escaped animals, and make the facility safe for the staff and animals as the water recedes. EAZA is obliged to repeat the call from the Director of Tbilisi Zoo, Zura Gurielidze, for citizens to remain calm and contact authorities if they encounter any wild animal in the city or the surrounding area.
On no account should private citizens attempt to recapture or shoot the animals, which should be considered dangerous. EAZA is gathering information from sources in Tbilisi and elsewhere to build a complete picture of the situation and will be in contact with our members to ascertain how we as a community can most effectively assist. At this stage, we do not know if and when the zoo site will become safe enough for the return of staff and animals; nonetheless, EAZA and its members will do everything possible to assist the local authorities and the management of the zoo ensure the security of the facility and the welfare of the animals.
The EAZA community offers its sincere condolences to the families of the staff who lost their lives. The Association also offers its condolences to the staff of the zoo who have lost not only their friends and colleagues, but also many of the animals they cared for.
