Managed a quick visit to Chester Zoo on Friday. First time there in over a
year. I was there to meet up with David Woolcock from Paradise Park in
Cornwall. Whilst there we took the opportunity to catch up with old
friends and check out what was new. The zoo was quiet, but then it was a
fairly cold day. There is such a tremendous amount of building work in
progress one wonders if the place will be recognisable by Easter. We will
certainly be returning once redevelopment is complete. Eventually met up
with David, who looked fit and well, and had a brief but interesting chat
about positive reinforcement. The Zoo Biology e-group has been especially
interesting this week. The usual diverse range of subjects under
discussion have included Giraffe Calving Problems, Tiger Kibble, Removing
mites from Funnel Web Spiders, Breeding Fishing Cats and Elephant
Bedding-Yes or No. By not being part of the group you are missing out on
an ongoing and fascinating learning experience. Some of the opinions of
contributors are particularly interesting. This week Sarah Christie gave
an especially eloquent statement. I thought it deserved a wider read so
have reproduced it here in full :
“The attitude to whole carcasses Belinda mentions below is I think is
indicative of a dilemma that is and will be facing American and other zoos
that choose to focus on individual animals, marketing themselves and
generally justifying their existence in animal welfare rather than
conservation terms. The appalling media coverage of the recent death of
the panda in the National Zoo in Washington springs to mind. By
perpetuating the Bambi image and encouraging anthropomorphic
sentimentality zoos hamstring themselves in terms of managing their stock.
It becomes impossible to euthanase for management reasons - and sometimes
difficult even for medical reasons as in the panda case above - and also
it is often hard to move "personality" animals to another zoo, which
impacts both the individual collection and the overall co-operative
breeding programmme concerned, with long-term implications for the overall
health of our populations.
As importantly, I think such an approach also means the zoos are failing
in their education mission. Sanitising the wild like this may provide
Disney-style entertainment for visitors, but giving the public the
impression that the natural world consists of cute and cuddly creatures
frolicking in the forest with never an injury or fight or killing in sight
is not going to produce future generations of conservationists with any
understanding of the real world.
Animal welfare does not equal conservation, a distinction the media are
generally
ignorant of, freely exchanging the terms "animal rights activist" or
"animal lover" for "environmentalist" or "conservationist".
I think this is a key issue for zoos in the 21st century. It also impacts
on all the fuss over animal transfers recently. The dealer end of that is
easily addressed - stop using dealers and stop using money for all
inter-zoo transfers - but the canned hunt part of it is another thing. If
there is no zoo space available for surplus antelope or deer, one could
argue that a few weeks or months of life in an open habitat followed by a
quick death is in fact a plus for the animal. Unless of course one had
been brought up on a diet of mawkish sentiment. I recently read of a call
to a wildlife authority in America where the caller was insistent that the
authorities should come save a deer he had seen being attacked by a
cougar.
Some conservation agencies sometimes exploit this confusion, raising funds
on a welfare basis (eg please pay for the care of this cute cuddly tiger
cub who has been orphaned by wicked poachers) which are then largely spent
on field conservation. All very well, you may think, good way to get the
money - but the trouble is that you are also perpetuating all kinds of
deep-rooted wrong ideas about the planet and how we and other lifeforms
fit into the complex systems that keep it all going. Such deep
perceptions colour everything humans do as individuals and en masse. If
zoos cannot address this, we will be severely limiting our usefulness in
society.
Sarah”
Food for thought!
It was quite sad to see the Zoo Chat site close its doors this month.
Although I was not a regular visitor, I was one of the first. Laura worked
hard to build it up and, in its early days there were an interesting
collection of people dropping by. It was a good place to meet. Its biggest
fault was that it was unmoderated and, I suppose, it was inevitable that
the odd nutter got into the chat room. This spoilt it for all. I could see
the end coming after the arrival of the Instant Messenger, ICQ and its
genre. People who had previously chatted in open forum, keeping up an
interesting run preferred now to speak in private. Why? I’ll never quite
understand. Hardly an ideal situation and certainly not helpfull to
discussion.. Members of Zoo Biology, the Gorilla e-group and others do
have access to their own chat rooms. These are an ideal place to meet and
discuss matters of mutual interest. If you have not visited a chat room
previously, why not give it a go. If you are not a member of those try the
Zoo Negara site at :
http://www.zoonegara.org/e/chat.html
You can talk at length at the fraction of the cost of an international
phone call.
We are saving wildlife, but only for display at zoos
http://www.azstarnet.com/public/dnews/128CV5.html
Elephant attack victim had worked with animal for years
http://www.msnbc.com/local/WFLA/75035.asp
Sanctuary for elephant
(El Paso Zoo)
http://www.canoe.ca/TorontoNews/ts.ts-01-25-0048.html
Abused elephant heads for new home
(El Paso Zoo)
http://www.bergen.com/morenews/phant25200001257.htm
Fort Worth Zoo hires Dallas ad firm
http://www.star-telegram.com/news/doc/1047/1:BIZ28/1:BIZ280124100.html
Enrichment's primary purpose is to improve animals' lives
(Sedgwick County Zoo)
http://www.wichitaeagle.com/news/local/community/sedgwickco/zoogames0124.h
tm
Not many disputing the claim Oscar's the biggest gator around
(Okefenokee Swamp Park)
http://www.Jacksonville.com/tu-online/stories/012500/met_1906014.html
Otter rescued in Alaska recovers at Oregon Coast Aquarium
http://flash.oregonlive.com/cgi-bin/or_nview.pl?/home1/wire/AP/Stream-
Parsed/OREGON_NEWS/o0338_PM_OR--RescuedOtter
Public gets at gander at Reba the elephant
(Phoenix Zoo)
http://www.azcentral.com/news/0129zoo.shtml
South Carolina Aquarium sets up research/education base
http://www.charleston.net/pub/news/local/aqu0129.htm
Aquaria 21 quitting aquariums
(Shanghai aquarium/South Korean aquariums)
http://www.press.co.nz/2000/04/000125b05.htm
What do you feed a giant ape? Whatever he wants
(Zoo Atlanta)
http://www.smh.com.au:80/news/0001/29/text/world24.html
Stray seals get lift home
(Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium)
http://www.heraldnet.com/Stories/00/1/28/12058846.htm
Big bird flies coop
http://www.jacksonville.com/tu-online/stories/012900/met_1959525.html
Great Ape or Not, It May Be Time for Moe to Go
http://www.latimes.com/news/state/20000128/t000009016.html
Male elephant flown to Thailand in quest for mate
http://www.nando.com/noframes/story/0,2107,500159893-500200195-500892050-0
,00.html
Man eaten by pet lion
http://www.canoe.ca/TopStories/lion_jan24.html
Carcass suspected may be that of wayward manatee spotted a month ago
http://www.naplesnews.com/today/florida/d286021a.htm
Arab hunters threaten Niger's endangered species
http://www.akhbar.com/article/0,1690,ArabiaLife-11715,00.html
Money for wolf recovery debated
http://www.trib.com/HOMENEWS/WYO/WolfRecovery.html
Elephant Seals Get Fat
http://www.abcnews.go.com/sections/science/DyeHard/dyehard.html
Bottom of Form 1
Wild elephants a dying breed
http://www.freep.com/news/nw/wele27_20000127.htm
Farmers Howling Over Protected Wolves
http://www.latimes.com/news/nation/20000128/t000008895.html
Manx corncrakes croak anew
http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/sci/tech/newsid_413000/413687.stm
Sanctuary opened to counter wildlife trade
http://www.scmp.com/News/Asia/Article/FullText_asp_ArticleID-2000012603053
6064.asp
************************************************************************
If you know a story I have missed this week do drop me a line with the
full web address and I will try and include it next week.
************************************************************************
Bit & Pieces
ZooNews Digest subscribers can be found in :
Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bali, Belgium, Belize, Bermuda, Brazil,
Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, Columbia, Croatia, Czech Republic,
Denmark, Ecuador, Eire, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece,
Guatemala, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Isle of Man,
Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Korea, Latvia, Lithuania, Mexico,
Malaysia, Malta, Mauritius, Morocco, Namibia, New Zealand, Pakistan,
Papua New Guinea, Peoples Republic of China, Philippines, Poland,
Portugal, Russia, Senegal, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, South
Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, The
Netherlands, Turkey, Uganda, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United
Kingdom, United States, Vietnam, Yugoslavia, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
************************************************************************
URGENT APPEAL BY MR OWEN GRIFFITHS of LA VANILLE CROCODILE PARK,
MAURITIUS
During the evening of Wednesday 19 January 2000, 161 baby tortoises (46
Geochelone radiata and 115 Aldabrachelys gigantea) were stolen from La
Vanille Crocodile Park. All were bred and hatched at the park during1998
and 1999. The tortoises were destined in a large part for conservation
projects in Mauritius and Rodrigues and are protected under the CITES
Convention.
The Mauritian Police has advised Interpol on this matter and your help is
requested in finding the stolen tortoises which are believed will be
smuggled out of Mauritius via the airport for the International black
market in endangered species.
************************************************************************
I
was delighted to learn this week that Shona Wessely, the keeper injured by
the Tapir at Taronga Zoo is making a good recovery. She has returned to
the zoo three times since her accident to visit colleagues and the tapirs.
She says that she is healing well and will never underestimate any animal
she may work with in the future. I am sure we all wish her a speedy
recovery and return to work.
************************************************************************
The preliminary program of the ZooKunft meeting (which will take place in
just two weeks) can be seen on: http://www.zoo-kunft.de
************************************************************************
ZOOS’ Print, Volume xv, Number 2. February 2000
Strategic Futures Workshop: Visioning the Ideal Zoo of the Future.
Central Zoo Authority Studies of Social and Educational Impact of Mini
Zoos and Deer Parks throughout India.
Unique Training Opportunities for Animal Keepers at Arignar Anna
Zoological Park. – N. Krishnakumar, I.F.S., Director & M. Sekar,
Biologist.
CZA Sponsored Workshop on Health and Management of Zoo Animals for Zoo
Veterinarians, Guwahati, Assam.
Health Care and Treatment of Zoo Animals. – Dr. M. V. Wani.
Note on Olive Baboons of Nehru Zoological Park, Hyderabad. – K.N. Bennerji
and K.C. Pillai.
Nandankanan Zoo still suffering from October Cyclone.
Announcements.
Southeast Asian Zoo and Wildlife News: Sri Lanka, South Asia in general;
Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Nepal.
Job Ops for Captive Management, Wildlife and Environmental Scientists.
Conservation Breeding Specialist Group SSC, IUCN Annual Meeting Report.
World Zoo Organisation 54th Annual Conference Report.
Changing Role of Zoos in the 21st Century. – William Conway.
Southeast Asian Zoo Association (SEAZA) Annual Conference Report.
Perfect Mix of Animal Welfare and Conservation: Cuc Phong Endangered
Animal Rescue Centre. – Sally Walker.
Announcements from Abroad of Interest to Zoo Vets.
Also, Frog Leg, Newsletter of DAPTF-SA (Centre pull out)
ZOOS’ Print Journal, Vol xv, No 2. February 2000
Paper.
A new species of Heydenia forster (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) from India –
P.M. Sureshan.
Sex ratio of wintering waterfowl at selected waterbodies in northern
suburb of Secunderabad, Andhra Pradesh – C. Srinivasulu and Bhargavi
Srinivasulu. Opinion. Butterflies of Krishnapuram Grama Panchayath,
Alappuzha District, Kerala. – A case for revised study – C. Radhakrishnan.
Case Report. Ichthyo and herpetofaunal diversity of Kalakkad Wildlife
Sanctuary. – P.T. Cherian, Rema Devi and M.S. Ravichandran.
Certain haematological and biochemical profiles of a white tigress
(Panthera tigris Linnaeus) suffering from trypanosomiasis. – S. Singh, C.
Singh, A. Kumar, K.K. Sinha and P.C. Mishra.
Use of Diazepam for transportation of Himalayan Black Bear (Selenarctos
thibetinus) – Nawab Nashiruddullah and Saidul Islam.
Notes.
Brief note on Syzygium alternifolium (Wight) Walp., and endemic plant
species found in Sri Venkateswara Wildlife Sanctuary of Andhra Pradesh,
with special reference to its fruiting. – B. Anand Mohan and B. Bharatha
Lakshmi.
Chalcidoidea (Hymenoptera: Insecta) status and diversity in India. – P.M.
Sureshan.
A checklist of birds of Calicut University campus, Kerala. – Muhamed Jafer
Palot and P. Pramod.
A case of obstructive asphyxia in Python (Python molurus) – P.K. Mehrotra,
Sudhir Bhargava, Sheela Chaudhary and B.B.L. Mathur.
The Zoo Outreach Organisation has just brought out a brand new range of
‘T’ shirts. All the designs are unique (Indian Wild Cattle, Himalayan
Ibex, Nilgri Tahr, Red Panda and others). They would certainly make you
stand out from the crowd...or make an unusual gift. I can personally vouch
for the quality. Excellent. If you are interested in purchasing, and, at
the same time, aiding the work of the organisation please e-mail the
address below.
If you are interested in subscribing to Zoos’ Print please send an e-mail
for further details to : Zooreach@vsnl.com
*******************************************************************
Dr. Ronald Tilson, David Gill and Gerald Brady (SSP Sumatran Tiger
Coordinator AZA) will be traveling to Indonesia in February to meet with
officials to discuss the Sumatran tiger situation and the part played by
regional Sumatran tiger programs. They will also be out in the jungle
with the Sumatran Tiger Project Team in Sumatra . Tiger buffs should
really look up: http://www.5tigers.org and really see large cat
conservation at its best!
************************************************************************
Fifth International Elephant Research Symposium June 1-3, 2000 in
Portland, Oregon
CALL FOR ABSTRACTS - DEADLINE: April 15, 2000
The International Elephant Foundation is looking for papers and posters on
research and conservation issues relevant to captive and wild elephant
managment. Please send all abstracts to Deborah Olson, Program Officer,
International Elephant Foundation, P.O. Box 366, Azle, TX 76098. Fax:
817-444-5101; email: dolson@indyzoo.com
************************************************************************
Working Holidays in Zambia: Munda Wanga Wildlife Park and Sanctuary
Volunteer positions now available at Munda Wanga Wildlife Park and
Sanctuary, Zambia. Take a bold step forward onto Zambian soil and
experience a working environment at a Third World Zoo. Positions are
available for between three to five weeks for two to three people. Make a
worthwhile contribution to conservation education efforts here in Zambia
and gain hands-on experience working with African wildlife and its people.
Contact Lasha Young for more information, e-mail: biopark@zamnet.zm or fax
us on 260-01-278529.
************************************************************************
There follows an appeal by Constantinos Godes :
For a long time we have been trying to persuade the Florina Zoo (a city in
NW Greece) to give up their lions and baboons, who live in miserable
conditions, malnourished and without any environmental enrichment
provision. Recently, after a mention of the appalling conditions on
prime-time TV and an interview where we expressed our opinion regarding
the zoo and those animals in particular, we succeeded in obtaining a
permit by the Ministry of Agriculture, the pertinent authority, in order
to re-locate the animals (two lions and two baboons) . Since our aim is
for these animals to be moved to a better environment, we had to look for
suitable institutions that would accept them elsewhere. We have gotten in
touch with WSPA and GAWF who have shown an interest in the past, but so
far they have not come up with anything. Until now we have managed to host
two of the zoo bears (the other three have died) at our Bear Sanctuary and
hope to take the wolves as well, but we cannot accommodate neither lions
nor baboons in our installations. Time is running short for these animals,
as winters in Florina are extremely harsh and the holding pens are not
heated. Is it possible for you to post a request at the Zoo Digest in the
hope that some zoo/park might be interested? I am sure that once a place
has been found, we could raise the transportation money needed. We would
be grateful for any help. Sincerely, Constantinos Godes
P.S. Arcturos is a non-profit NGO involved since 1992 in the protection
and conservation of wildlife and the natural environment, concentrating
mainly in bears and wolves. Apart from the implementation of various
scientific projects, we have established the Arcturos Environmental Centre
which includes a Bear Information Centre, a Bear Sanctuary, a veterinary
station and a -soon to be completed- Wolf Sanctuary. We are also involved
in environmental education and awareness raising and coordinate a Balkan
Large Carnivore Conservation Network (Balkan Net).
Constantinos Godes
Balkan Cooperation
ARCTUROS
3 Victor Hugo st.
54624 Thessaloniki
Greece
Tel. (+30 31) 554623, 555920
Fax (+30 31) 553932
e-mail:cgodes@arcturos.the.forthnet.gr
************************************************************************
I just learnt today of my good friend Chris Furley being badly injured in
a car accident. If you are reading this Chris, I wish you a speedy
recovery.
************************************************************************
Reproduction and integrated conservation science.
A Zoological Society of London Symposium organised in association with the
Marsupial CRC
and the Smithsonian Institute Conservation and Research Centre
Thursday 9th and Friday 10th November, 2000
The Meeting Rooms, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park,
London NW1 4RY
http://www.zsl.org
Reproduction is the essence of species survival. This symposium celebrates
the contributions of reproductive biology to the enhanced management and
conservation of endangered species. In recent years the discipline has
largely been regarded as focusing on developing assisted breeding
technologies to help in captive breeding. Reproductive biology is indeed
technology based, but its real value is in understanding the diverse and
wondrous ways that animals self-perpetuate. This knowledge then becomes
valuable for improving management and conservation programmes in zoos and
in nature. Especially important is the integration of reproductive data
with new knowledge about genetics, nutrition, behavior and environmental
toxicants.
Topics to be explored by more than 20 world leaders include:
Ø Reproduction in small populations and inbreeding depression
Ø Habitats, reproduction and species survival
Ø Managing declining populations
Ø Managing over-abundant populations
Ø Status of reproductive knowledge in non-mammalian vertebrates
(reptiles, amphibia, birds and fish)
Speakers (and participants) will address how the reproductive sciences can
and should contribute even more to integrative conservation programmes in
zoos and in the field. For this reason, this symposium will be of special
interests not only to physiologists and endocrinologists but to
ecologists, geneticists, nutritionists, behaviourists and veterinarians
interested in merging their own disciplines with the reproductive
sciences. This symposium promises to be an outstanding forum for reviewing
state-of-the-art reproductive science in conservation biology and
identifying the highest priorities for the new millennium.
To register your interest in attending this symposium please contact: D.
Body, Scientific Meetings Co-ordinator, Zoological Society of London,
Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK or email: Deborah.Body@zsl.org
If you would be interested in submitting a poster presentation, please
indicate this.
************************************************************************
Ecology and Conservation of Mini-antelope An international
symposium on duiker and dwarf antelope in Africa
Hosted by the Marwell Zimbabwe Trust
12th-17th February 2001
Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
To include discussion on reasons for decline of some small ungulate
species, the effect of habitat loss and fragmentation, the impact of
bushmeat trade and consumption, the effects of competition and
predation, threatened species specific issues, present and future
conservation strategies.
Contact aplowman@paigntonzoo.org.uk for further info
************************************************************************
UFAW ZOO ANIMAL WELFARE AWARDS 2000
Applications and nominations are invited for the UFAW zoo awards 2000 that
recognise improvements in the welfare of animals kept in zoos. Wild
animals are kept in captivity for a variety of reasons, eg for
conservation and public education in zoos, for their welfare in rescue and
rehabilitation centres and as companion animals. Keeping wild animals to
high standards of health and welfare presents many challenges and zoos
have played an important role in developing good housing and husbandry
techniques. To encourage research and development into high standards of
housing and management of wild animals, UFAW initiated the zoo animal
welfare award. Since 1987, prizes have been awarded each year for the best
new or improved accommodation and for innovations for welfare.
Theprincipal award ($500) is for a new or modified exhibit, which provides
sufficiently complex and stimulating environments for the animals to
develop and display a wider range of behaviour. It should also help the
public to better appreciate the physical and behavioural needs of the
amimals. Asecond, smaller award ($100) is offered for an inexpensive,
simple, innovative idea or piece of equipment that improves the welfare of
animals and which could be easily replicated in other enclosures.
CONDITIONS Entries may be for exhibits of any type and for any animal
species kept in a licensed zoo in the United Kingdom. The exhibit/piece of
equipment must have been built during the last two years and must also
have been in use for at least six months. The conditions under which the
animals are being kept should provide an appropriately complex and
stimulating environment, which allows them to develop and display a wider
range of behaviour. The way in which the animals are displayed should give
observers an insight into the natural behaviour and lifestyle of the
species. Preference will be given to innovations or improvements which
best satisfy these requirements and which allow the animals to live in
good health with as near as natural life as is possible in captivity.
Applications must be made on the application forms, which are available
from the address below. The panel of judges will select a short list by
the end of April and will arrange visits for the final round of judging
before the end of June 2000 Application forms and further details are
available from UFAW: Universities Federation for Animal Welfare, The Old
School, Brewhouse Hill, Wheathampstead, Herts. AL4 8AN. Tel 01582 831818
Fax 01582 831414. Registered Charity No: 207996. Website:
http://www.ufaw3.dircon.co.uk Applications must arrive at the UFAW offices
no later than 28th February 2000
************************************************************************
The ZOO-Gulf Breeze, Florida would like to invite you to participate in
the AZA Eastern Regional Conference March 22-25,2000. All attendees will
be entered into a drawing for a free African Safari departing October
29,2000 sponsored by Fun Safaris. All Speakers or Workshop presenters
will be entered into the drawing twice. The Theme of the conference is
Zoovolution-Where do we go from here. We will be sharing information and
ideas in paper presentations and posters, and in an effort to get
participants out of their chairs and demonstrate their skills, we are
planning a number of "hands-on" workshops to be held at the ZOO.
Workshops on small zoo education programs, and animal training have
already been scheduled. We are working on an enrichment workshop and are
looking for more people who would like to share their ideas and skills. A
special workshop will also be presented by our traveling exhibit-
Reptiles: The Beautiful, and the Deadly, produced by Clyde Peeling's
Reptiland, an AZA-accredited specialized zoo. We at The ZOO are anxious to
make this unique and rewarding experience, and we encourage everyone to
come are share their Ideas wih the rest of the zoo/ aquarium community.
In keeping with the ZOOvolution theme presentations focusing on changes
through time or zoos/ aquariums of the past are welcome. Other topics
include interaction with the media, sister zoo programs, enrichment,
innovative exhibit designs, etc.
Abstracts for papers, posters, or workshops should be sent to Linda
Pastorello, programs
chair, The ZOO, 5701 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze, FL 32561- or e-mail
them to: education@the-zoo.com. For information please feel free to call
Lynnette Gapski ( 850)932-2229 extension 16 or e-mail
information@the-zoo.com For updated information please see the web page at
: http://www.the-zoo.com
************************************************************************
The SeaWorld Orlando Education Department has two unique Internship
opportunities for college students. The Camp SeaWorld/Adventure Camp
Internship provides an opportunity for students to work with SeaWorld's
summer camp programs and is offered from May to August. The new Educator
Internship which gives students the opportunity to staff various animal
attractions and interact with park guests, is offered as a twelve-week
Internship during the Spring, Summer and Fall semesters. Contact
Jeannie.Thompson@anheuser-busch.com for information on the Camp SeaWorld
Internship. Contact Geni.Garza@anheuser-busch.com for information about
the Educator Internship. Check out http://www.seaworld.org for more
information about either internship.
************************************************************************
The International Training Centre (ITC) of the Wildlife Preservation
Trusts is based in Jersey, Channel Islands. Here at the Headquarters of
the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust the ITC offers a unique
opportunity for training in Conservation and Zoo Biology. The ITC runs a
three-week Summer School intended as an intensive introduction to
principles of Conservation Biology with an emphasis on the role that
Zoological parks and similar institutions can play in the process. Group
research projects are incorporated in this course but there is no hands on
animal work. 17th July to 4th August 2000 cost £1,145 including Bed and
Board. A longer residential course is also offered running from between
12 to 16 weeks. With more time this longer course offers an opportunity
for practical work within the Jersey Zoo and a more extensive research
project in addition to a more comprehensive treatment of zoo and
conservation biology in the theory sessions. For further information on
these courses please contact us ITC, Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust,
Les Augres Manor, Trinity, Jersey JE3 5BP Tel. +44 (0)1534 860037 Fax +44
(0)1534 860002 e mail itc@durrell.org
************************************************************************
The Oregon Zoo staff and volunteers would like to invite you to the Oregon
Zoo in Portland, Oregon on June 1-4, 2000 for two important meetings
dealing with the health, welfare and scientific investigation of elephants
in captivity and the wild.
On June 1- 3, 2000, in partnership with the International Elephant
Foundation (IEF), the Oregon Zoo will host the Fifth International
Elephant Research Symposium. This year's symposium will return to the
working group format with professional moderators guiding the discussion
and aiding in the production of a final document detailing research
priorities and action plans. Current working group topics include
Nutrition, Reproduction, Medicine/Health, Behavior, Communication, and
Conservation and Research programs in range countries.
On June 4, 2000, the Oregon zoo will host the 2nd North American
Conference on Foot Care and Pathology. The Foot Care and Pathology
conference will have a slightly different format concentrating on paper
presentations relative to addressing advances in foot care and treatment
of foot disease.
The symposium and conference sessions will be held at the banquet
facilities at the Oregon Zoo. Though the meeting schedules will be full,
there will be time to visit the Zoo. By June, we should have integrated
our newest elephant, imported from Malaysia, into our female group. We
may also be able to arrange site tours to our Steller Cove Exhibit that
will open to the public in July. This exhibit will house Steller sea
lions, sea otters, and marine fish and invertebrates. The Oregon zoo
looks great in the spring and will be a wonderful and appropriate setting
for the symposium and conference.
The conference hotel is the Four Points Sheraton Portland Downtown with
the following room rates: Single $72.00 Double $87.00 The hotel offers a
view of the Willamette River, and is on our new Light Rail Line that
travels directly to the Oregon Zoo. Light Rail Passes will be provided to
all registrants. The hotel is holding a block of rooms but will release
them on May 11th, 2000. It is very important that you make a reservation
by this date, as our conference falls during Rose Festival Week when most
hotels in the area are filled to capacity. Reservations can be made by
calling the hotel directly at 1-800-899-0247 or the Sheraton Worldwide
reservation system 1-800-325-2525 or through the website at
www.fourpointsportland.com. Please identify yourself as part of the
Elephant Research conference in order to get the reduced rate.
Grayline provides a shuttle from the Portland International Airport
leaving every one-half hour. It is $12.00 per person each way, and you
will find it at the airport by following the signs to "ground
transportation".
A tentative schedule follows. Please note that all meals except for
dinner on Friday are included in your registration. I am looking forward
to seeing you in Portland in June.
Sincerely,
Mike Keele
Tentative Schedule
5th International Elephant Research Symposium-June 1-3, 2000
Thursday June 1st
Registration and Icebreaker at hotel
Friday June2 at the Oregon Zoo
Opening remarks
Continental breakfast at the zoo
Paper presentations
AM working group sessions
Lunch at zoo
PM working sessions
Working group reports
Free evening-Zoo Tour
Saturday June 3 at the Oregon Zoo
Continental breakfast
Paper presentations
AM working group sessions
Lunch
PM working Session
Final working group reports
Summation
Evening banquet and keynote speaker Paula Kahumbu at the Oregon Zoo
2nd North American Conference on Elephant Foot Care and Pathology at the
Oregon Zoo Sunday June 4 Continental breakfast AM paper presentations
Lunch at zoo PM paper presentations Closing remarks
************************************************************************
WILDLIFE INFORMATION NETWORK is still open for review. If you have tried
to get on to the site previously but have encountered browser problems go
to http://www.wildlifeinformation.org This is your chance to review
WILDProâ Multimedia v. 1.0 When you have, don`t forget to add your
comments before you exit.
************************************************************************
Zoo Staff Personals
Looking for work? Someone to travel with? Somewhere to stay? Let me know
and I will post it here.
************************************************************************
Situations Vacant
(Please mention you saw the advertisement in ZooNews Digest should you
apply for any of these posts, many thanks) Do you have a vacancy to
advertise? Please email me.
The National Birds of Prey Centre at Newent in Gloucestershire has a
vacancy for a Raptor Keeper. The duties for this position will include
routine husbandry, feeding, cleaning, training as well as the public
exhibition of Birds of Prey. Applicants will be expected to have an
outgoing personality and excellent communication skills. Please send
applications in writing or e-mail with a current CV and photograph to Miss
Sarah- Jane Rumble, National Birds of Prey Centre, Newent,
Gloucestershire, GL18 1JJ. Mark applications as Private and Confidential.
Visit the Website : http://www.nbpc.co.uk E-mail : jpj@nbpc.co.uk
************************************************************************
2000 Internships for Public & Animal Programs
Wild encounters/Kraal interns
These positions offer variety to those looking for an animal care position
linked with public work. Interns will be responsible for entertaining and
educating zoo guests during the Denver Zoo Wild Encounters as well as
operating the Kraal, a small version of an African farm yard complete with
domestics. A popular spot with the public, the Kraal provides the close
encounters with animals that people truly enjoy. While Denver Zoo Wild
Encounters educate and thrill the visitors five times daily. These
interactive animal encounters are each unique and exciting as the
performers present topics that are of interest to them. The duties of
these interns will include: presenting several interactive programs using
live animals and animal artifacts (biofacts) daily. primary care of the
African farm animals in the Kraal interpreting the Kraal animals and
exhibit to the public assisting in additional animal care within the
Education Department These duties, and more, will demand energetic and
flexible people who wish to share their enthusiasm for animals with the
public. Since these interns will work with various staff and volunteers,
an upbeat, team-playing personality is essential. Three to four positions
are available during the spring/summer season beginning April Applicants
should have experience with animals Public speaking and experience
educating children necessary Interns pursuing biology, zoology or related
degrees receive priority Pay rate = $8.00/hour
Wildlife show interns
Seasonally, the Education Department will inspire and delight all ages
with a variety of free-flighted birds in the Conoco Wildlife Theater. The
primary duty of these interns will be animal husbandry, however, they will
have the opportunity to perform shows on stage and assist in animal
training. Three positions are available during the summer season beginning
late March Applicants should have experience with animals: especially
birds of prey or parrots Animal training background preferred Public
speaking and experience educating children necessary Interns pursuing
biology, zoology or related degrees receive priority Pay rate = $8.00/hour
Applicants may mail or fax a resume to: Public and Animal Programs, Denver
Zoo, 2300 Steele Street, Denver, CO 80205-4899 Fax: (303) 376-4839, Email:
edanimal@denverzoo.org Deadline: February 29th 2000
************************************************************************
Special Education Assistants required at Blackpool Zoo. Blackpool Zoo
Education Department are currently expanding to accommodate changes in the
summer programme and are looking to take on up to 5 new seasonal staff
between April and September. These staff will be responsible for
delivering public presentations, the new schools programme plus assisting
with weekend and holiday events and general administration duties. Pay
will be approximately $4.47 per hour. Phone Blackpool Zoo on 01253 830830
or write to: Nan Swannie at Blackpool Zoo, East Park Drive, Blackpool FY3
8PP for more details and an application form. Closing date is 1st March.
************************************************************************
Position Available at Zoo Atlanta
TITLE: Enrichment and Animal Training Coordinator
PURPOSE: A full-time position to support Dr. Mollie Bloomsmith (Director
of Research), in organizing, implementing and documenting the
environmental enrichment and animal training programs at the zoo.
SPECIFIC DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: Responsible for working with keepers
throughout the zoo to facilitate the keepers' implementation of the
enrichment program by collecting needed supplies, building enrichment
devices, stocking enrichment devices, and planting and maintaining a
browse garden. Responsible for working with keepers throughout the zoo to
facilitate the keepers' implementation of the animal training program by
collecting needed supplies, teaching operant conditioning terminology, and
offering constructive information to animal trainers. Responsible for
improving the experience of zoo visitors by increasing animal visibility
and activity through enrichment and training. Responsible for working
with the Behavioral Husbandry and the Animal Training Committees to
achieve their objectives. Responsible for helping to generate possible
solutions for behavioral issues in zoo animal management and care.
Responsible for assisting in the development of a zoo-wide record keeping
system for enrichment and training that will include informal assessments
of the program. Responsible for working with Dr. Bloomsmith and other
members of the research staff to facilitate the formal evaluation of the
enrichment and animal training programs. Responsible for coordinating the
efforts of volunteers as they relate to these programs. Responsible for
maintaining a library of reading relevant literature for keepers, for
maintaining a current understanding of the field, and for making
contributions to the literature.
CRITERIA FOR HIRING:
Required:
· Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Zoology, Biology, Anthropology or
related field. · Demonstrated experience in operant conditioning using
positive reinforcement techniques to train animals for animal care related
behaviors. · Ability to describe and teach others about operant
conditioning terminology and how it applies to training animals in the zoo
setting. · Demonstrated experience in implementing or planning
environmental enrichment techniques for animals to improve their
well-being. · Basic understanding of research techniques. · Excellent
time management and organizational skills needed, as well as ability to
work independently, and with a wide variety of people. · Ability to
understand and follow oral and written instructions, and to compute basic
arithmetic and statistical calculations. · Computer skills in word
processing (preferably Microsoft Word) and data management (preferably
Microsoft Excel). · Ability to lift and move 40 pounds, to complete
physical labor outdoors during temperatures ranging from 40 to 95 degrees.
· Valid Georgia Driver's license or ability to obtain one within one
month of hire.
Preferred:
· Master's degree in Psychology, Zoology, Anthropology or related field.
· Ability to use power tools and other supplies to construct enrichment
devices. · Ability to analyze data for simple evaluations. ·
Demonstrated ability to write training protocols, short articles, etc.
that are clear and concise.
ANNUAL SALARY: Negotiable, with benefits
SEND RESUME TO: Gail D. Allen
Staffing Coordinator, Human Resources
Zoo Atlanta
800 Cherokee Ave SE
Atlanta, GA 30315
Fax: (404)624-5943
EOE
************************************************************************
AVICULTURIST REQUIRED IN NEW ZEALAND The Mt Bruce National Wildlife Centre
is a captive breeding facility run by the New Zealand Department of
Conservation. The facility specialises in breeding rare and endangered
species for reintroduction into the wild. Mt Bruce is open to the public
and caters for approximately 35,000 people per annum. Environmental
education is another prime goal at the facility. We have a vacancy for
another member of staff. The applicant should ideally be an experienced
aviculturist and also a team player. A tertiary qualification is a
requirement. The bird staff team consists of 4-5 member all of whom have
dedicated responsibilities but essentially work closely as a team. Work at
the centre involves the captive husbandry of various species, record
keeping and report writing, aviary and landscape maintenance and some
interactions with the public. Occasionally, some fieldwork at release
sites and the monitoring of reintroduced populations is also included.
Potential applicants should forward their details, notification of
interest and enquiries to: Glen Holland, Mt Bruce National Wildlife Centre
RD1, Masterton, New Zealand. Fax: 06:375 8003. E-mail: wildlife@winz.co.nz
************************************************************************
For the most up to date links to sites advertising Zoo work go to:
http://members.tripod.com/~Sciurus/index.html
************************************************************************
Meetings
The Eighth Annual Conference of the International Association of Avian
Trainers and Educators Memphis Zoo February 18-21 2000 For more
information, call Kate Friedman at (901) 725-3400 ext. 3800 or e-mail at
kfriedman@memphiszoo.org.
Primate Training and Enrichment Workshop
The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Department of
Veterinary Sciences (DVS) facility in Bastrop, TX. February 23-26 2000
For additional information contact: Steve Schapiro, Department of
Veterinary Sciences UTMDACC Rt. 2, Box 151-B I Bastrop, TX 78602 tele:
512-321-3991 fax: 512-332-5208 sschapir@mdanderson.org
"Zoo-Kunft 2000"
18 - 20 February 2000
Allwetterzoo Münster
The main theme will be "The Human (and) Apes in zoos and the wild".
Registration and further information) is at the web site at :
http://www.quantum-conservation.org/ZK00OL.html
2nd IMATA (International Marine Animal Trainers Association)
16 March 2000
Benidorm, Spain.
For further info contact : Sabrina Labberté, Bejsebakkevej 26, DK 9000
Aalborg Denmark +45.98123393 home phone +45.96312925 work phone
+45.98131933 fax work email: sablab@hotmail.com
ARAZPA/ASZK Annual Conference
20 – 24 March 2000
Sea World,
Gold Coast, Australia
Email : trevorl@seaworld.com. or aileenm@seaworld.com.au
AZA 2000 Eastern Regional Conference
The Zoo, Gulf Breeze
22 - 25 March
email : education@the-zoo.com
Fourteenth Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society (ECS)
2-5 April 2000
University of Cork
Eire
Papers on pinnipeds will also be accepted at the conference. For more
information, see the ECS web site at
http://web.inter.nl.net/users/J.W.Broekema/ecs/ecs-2000.htm
AZA 2000 Western Regional Conference
El Paso Zoo, Texas
5 - 8 April
email : epzooeduca@aol.com
EAZA Spring Council Meeting
7 - 9 April 2000
Dublin Zoo
Eire
Representing Animals at the End of the Century
April 13-15, 2000
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
For further information email: auctr20cs@uwm.edu
Third International Asian Hornbill Workshop
The 3rd International Asian Hornbill Symposium that was supposed to be in
Singapore in May 2000 has been cancelled. Tentatively, it has been
rescheduled for May 2001.
AZA 2000 Central Regional Conference
Toledo Zoo
3 - 6 May
email : AZAConf@Toledozoo.org
“Genetic Resources for the New Century.”
May 8-12, 2000
San Diego Wild Animal Park
For more information, contact conference organizers, Oliver Ryder, Ph.D.,
oryder@ucsd.edu or Kurt Benirschke, M.D. kbenirsc@ucsd.edu
PAAZAB Annual General Meeting and Conference
(Pan African Association of Zoological Gardens, Aquaria and Botanic
Gardens)
10 - 12 May 2000.
Hosted by the National Zoological Gardens of South Africa
Pretoria, South Africa.
Please direct enquiries to: The PAAZAB Secretariat via email
murphy@pixie.co.za
British Veterinary Zoological Society Spring Meeting 2000
'Emerging Diseases'
13-14th May 2000
Cotswold Wildlife Park, England.
Anyone wishing to present a paper should contact Michael Waters
(mwaters@rvc.ac.uk), Pathology and Infectious Diseases, Royal Veterinary
College, Hawkshead Lane North Mymms, Hatfield Herts AL9 7TA, United
Kingdom. Fax: +44(1707)661464. Student papers, reviews and original
research are all very welcome. The meeting is being held in a very
beautiful area of England so why not combine continuing education with a
short break in the Cotswolds. For registration details, please contact
Derek Lyon (DGLyon9@aol.com), 4 Butts Hill Court, Chester Road, Gresford,
Wrexham LL12 8NH, United Kingdom. Fax: +44(1978)852065 Tel:
+44(1978)852866
“The Apes: Challenges for the 21st Century”
May 10 -13 2000
Hilton, Lisle/Naperville
This unique conference will focus on the apes of the world and will bring
together researchers, zoological park personnel, and field biologists to
share and disseminate the most current information on husbandry,
conservation, and emergent issues pertaining to captive and wild
populations of apes. This conference will serve as a starting point for
defining the challenges likely to face apes in the twenty-first century.
Keynote speakers include Dr. David Chivers for lesser apes, Dr. Carel van
Schaik for orangutans, Dr. Gay Reinartz for bonobos, Dr. Claudia
Olejniczak for gorillas and Dr. Toshisada Nishida for chimpanzees. Our
plenary speaker is Dr. Russell Mittermeier, president of Conservation
International. The conference will include several days of presentations
as well as an icebreaker, round table discussions, and a day at Brookfield
Zoo including a silent auction, a raffle and a banquet. Immediately
following the conference Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago will host the North
American Ape Taxon Advisory Group meetings. The Brookfield Zoo Conference
Planning Committee invites you to present papers, posters, or videos
pertaining to husbandry, medicine, nutrition, behavior, taxonomy,
reproduction, fieldwork, or conservation matters. Deadline for abstract
submission is February 15, 2000. For information on registration and
submission of abstracts contact the Brookfield Zoo Ape Conference Planning
Committee at (708) 485-0263 ext 604, FAX (708) 485-3140 or e-mail
APECON@BROOKFIELDZOO.ORG
UK Herp TAG
12-13 May 2000
Chester Zoo
Further details E-mail: heather.hall@zsl.org
First conference of the African Zoo and Reserve Educators Network
(AZOREN) 12 - 18 May 2000 Pretoria Zoo, South Africa Theme of this
training conference is "Effective & Efficient AZOREN; Starting the
Conservation Educators Network". For further information please contact:
Cherylene Odendaal or Dina Roos of Pretoria Zoo. Telephone :
0027-12-3283265 / 3206020 Fax : 0027-12-3234540 E-mail :
zoologic@cis.co.za
Annual Conference of the Federation of Zoological Gardens of Great Britain
and Ireland 19 - 21 May 2000 Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens, Norfolk, UK
Fifth International Elephant Research Symposium
1-3 June 2000
Portland, Oregon
email: dolson@indyzoo.com
The 2nd Zoo Research Symposium
6 - 7 July 2000
Paignton Zoo
E-mail : aplowman@paigntonzoo.org.uk
Fourth International Penguin Conference
Coquimbo, Chile
September 4 - 8 2000
For Further info : gluna@nevados.cecun.ucn.cl
Zoo Federation Plant Group Conference
September 13th - 15th 2000
Cotswold Wildlife Park
For further info:
"Colin Wren" gardens@rzss.org.uk
17th EAZA/EEP Annual Conference
19 - 24 September 2000
Aalborg Zoo,
Denmark
nvdzoos@nvdzoos.nl
15th International Zoo Educators’ Conference
1 - 6 October 2000
Guadalajara, Mexico
For more information contact Maria Eugenia Martinez Arizmendi,
head of the Education Department.
Telephone : 0052-3-6744104
Fax : 0052-3-674-4488
E-mail : 104164.3717@compuserve.com
JEAN DELACOUR SYMPOSIUM, Breeding Birds in Captivity
CANCELLED
October 13 - 18, 2000
Hosted by the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Cincinnati, Ohio
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON REGISTRATION OR ABSTRACT SUBMISSION,
visit www.cincyzoo.org e-mail davidoehler@fuse.net
or call 1-800-94HIPPO ext. 7718 (ask for Kathy Kahler)
Panda 2000 International Conference
An international conference on the giant panda will be held in San Diego,
California (USA) October 16-19, 2000. The Zoological Society of San Diego
and the World Wildlife Fund are co- hosts. A program consisting primarily
of work-shops, panel discussions and poster sessions is planned. Topics
in conservation, education, training, research, health, reproduction, and
captive management will be co covered. Persons interested in attending
this meeting are encouraged to contact the Local Arrangements Chair:
Helena Fitch-Snyder, Zool. Soc. of San Diego, PO Box 120551, San Diego, CA
92112. Phone: (619) 557-3954, FAX: (619) 557-3959; E-mail
helena@sandiegozoo.org.
5th International Aquarium Congress
Monaco
Organised by the Oceanographic Institute of Oceanography
20 - 25th November 2000
For further information email: iac2000monaco@meditnet.com
or write to : Secretariat of the 5th IAC 2000, Oceanographic Institute,
Av.St.Martin, MC 98000 Monaco Tel.: +377-93-25.36.00, Fax :
+377-93-30.90.95.
Ecology and Conservation of Mini-antelope
An international symposium on duiker and dwarf antelope in Africa
Hosted by the Marwell Zimbabwe Trust
12th-17th February 2001
Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
Contact aplowman@paigntonzoo.org.uk for further info
************************************************************************
Help Wanted
Need assistance? You could try Zoo Biology, it is probably your best bet
for animal information. However ZooNews Digest reaches more like minded
people, more often than any other similar publication on the planet! So
you could try here. Let me know and I will post it.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
I would be very interested in knowing what vitamin and/or calcium
supplements you add to the diet of your Lesser Hedgehog Tenrecs (Echinops
telfairi). Important aspects include: What brand name/product? Powder,
liquid, or something else? How much? How often? Only during rearing or
always? Do you scatter it over the food or put into the drinking water?
Replies to : "David Kupitz"
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Tanya Klimuszko is looking for information reagarding Canadian Zookeepers
working in the United States. She is particularly interested in the fine
detail regarding visas and work permits. Any info or experiences would be
much appreciated. email her direct on : klimuszkotanya@hotmail.com
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
On behalf of a subscriber I am trying to locate ornithologist, former RAF
officer, and wind
tunnel
expert Penny Cuick. Believed to be somewhere in the UK. His help is
needed in the planning of a new exhibit. Any help would be much
appreciated. Please contact me directly so that I can pass the information
along. Peter@elvinhow.prestel.co.uk
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
A student is carrying out a study on the Red Eared Terrapin (Pseudemys
scripta elegans). She has already set a kind of hypothesis and that being
the behavior of other members in the tank/vivarium when a member,
previously removed, is re-introduced to the group. She is looking for
links to terrapin sites as well as advice on the conduction of this study.
All help/ advice/input would be greatly appreciated If you can help,
please in the first instance contact Brett Lewis, Stour Valley Veterinary
Centre, Kent brett@valleyvets.co.uk
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
In May 2000 the Toledo Zoo will be hosting the AZA regional conference. As
part of this conference we will be conducting a workshop on
zookeeper-driven research projects. We would like to compile a list of
zookeepers and aquarists who are conducting research projects along with a
short description of their projects and contact information. Thank you in
advance for your information, Greg Lipps and Bill Flanagan Dept. of
Herpetology Toledo Zoo Herpers@toledozoo.org
************************************************************************
Zoo Biology
To subscribe send an e-mail to: zoo-biology-subscribe@egroups.com
For those of you unfamiliar with Email groups they work like this. You
subscribe. You can then post questions, answer questions, make
observations, inform or just read the Email. This will arrive with some
regularity (depending on the flow of information). By Zoo Biology I mean
anything relating to zoo management. Hediger described this as “the
science which embraced everything which was biologically relevant to the
management of the zoological garden.” The more that join up the more
effective a management tool it will become. Go on, give it a try, and
subscribe. Remember no-one will pressurize you to contribute....but you
may want to help. There is a members only chat site attached to Zoo
Biology. This appears to work quite well. There are 550+ Zoo Biology
subscribers to date. More join each week.. Do be prepared to get a lot of
messages.
************************************************************************
Sites worth checking out
Have you got a suggestion? Let me check it out.
Melbourne Zoo Gorilla Cam
http://www.zoo.org.au/featured/webcams.htm
Do you like comics? And zoos? Take a look here!
http://www.abbysmenagerie.com
----------
Most e-mail packages will allow you to point and click on the site address
(hyperlink). This should launch your web browser and send you directly to
the site. If your package will not do this you will have to use cut and
paste. Cutting from this e-mail and pasting in your browsers address
column...then press return and away you go! The other problem you may have
is that the site address is longer than the page width. You will have to
cut and paste twice, taking care that you marry to the two halves exactly.
Some of these links are quite short lived, but I have checked them all
this week and they all work. If you have a problem, do let me know.
ZooNews Digest is sent out to a large and growing number of interested
parties worldwide each week. It is the most widely circulated zoo e-zine
on the planet, reaching more zoo personnel, more often than any other. If
you know of anyone who you think would like to be included please e-mail
me or get them to mail me directly. I would appreciate just a line or two
letting me know something of work area and interests. If you would like
to include notification of any items of interest i.e. Meetings, seminars,
job vacancies please contact me. I would also appreciate any short,
breaking news items you may pen yourself. ZooNews Digest is an independent
publication, not allied or attached to any zoological collection.
Many thanks.
For those of you who have not received the News previously, you have been
included because someone has suggested you might be interested. If this is
not the case please email me and I shall remove your name.
Kind Regards,
Wishing you a wonderful week,
Peter Dickinson,
No comments:
Post a Comment