Tuesday, June 30, 2009

ZooNews Digest 27th June - 1st July 2009 (Zoo News 604)

ZooNews Digest 27th June - 1st July 2009 (Zoo News 604)

http://zoonewsdigest.com/

http://zoonewsdigest.blogspot.com/

Peter Dickinson peterd482001@yahoo.co.uk



Dear Colleagues,



I was shocked to read about the confiscation of the Orangutans from Taiping Zoo. One would have thought they would have learnt a thing or two after the Taiping Four fiasco. I am not going to say too much at this point because I am hoping that it is all a big bureaucratic mix up. I liked Taiping Zoo, the staff too, so I am sure that the excuse proffered is genuine. I am worried about the 'missing' animals as I well remember the large number of animals which disappeared from Safari World Bangkok and were never seen again.

It really does sicken me though when I see the uses and abuses that Orangutans are being put to. Take a look at my Hubs this week.

Thai authorities have over the past couple of years started the registration of Elephants and Tigers. It should be made a requirement to microchip all animals in Thai collections (or all collections anywhere for that matter). One of the main flaws with Asian Zoos is that nobody really knows who has what and how many. It is a problem that needs to be urgently addressed. Right now SEAZA members don't know. There are no stock lists readily available. Some of course do have them but it needs to be an all round requirement.

There is another SEAZA meeting in Korea in August. I would love to attend if anyone would like to sponsor me. Sadly this time it would have to include return flights from Thailand. I cannot personally afford it. I was lucky enough to get sponsorship for the last meeting in Thailand but due to political unrest it was cancelled twice so I never got there because it never happened.






This Weeks Hubs:



Safari World in Bangkok Thailand



Eggs World in Safari World Bangkok Thailand


Visit my webpages at: http://hubpages.com/profile/Peter+Dickinson


Hubpages are brilliant, quick to create webpages which can earn you a small passive income from day one. Read my "Quick Guide to Hub Construction." http://ewerl.com/Ua92gJ



I truly believe it will be worth your while.

This Weeks Books of Interest to the Zoo Professional
http://moourl.com/6rk1w







On with the links:


Baby orang utans rescued

Three baby orang utans believed to be part of a smuggled group of five animals were confiscated from the Taiping Zoo and a private ostrich breeder in Klang recently by the Department of Wildlife and National Park (Perhilitan).The raid on the zoo came about after the private ostrich breeder in Klang, who was keeping one of the five baby orang utans, revealed the matter to Perhilitan enforcers.It is learnt that Perhilitan is searching for the remaining two babies.Confirming this, Perhilitan’s deputy director-general Misliah Mohamad Basir said the zoo was raided after a tip-off.“All orang utans at the zoo are microchipped but these specimens were without microchips, hence we are able to ascertain that they are of dubious origin,” she said, adding that they were also without official papers.As the orang utan is a totally protected species under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 as well as prohibited from international trade for its status as an Appendix I species on the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (Cites), keeping the animal is only possible with a special permit from Perhilitan.Following the high-profile expose of the smuggling of about a dozen of orang utans from Indonesia in 2005, Perhilitan took an inventory of all orang utans held by private and public zoos to show its commitment to stemming out trafficking in the endangered species.Orang utan, the sole Asian ape, is only found on the islands of Borneo and Sumatra. Three sub-species of the genus Pongo pygmaeus are distributed in Borneo while Sumatra is home to Pongo abelii.Misliah also said DNA samples of

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2009/6/30/nation/4207442&sec=nation



Orang utans dropped off by donor, says Taiping Zoo

An anonymous donor had dropped off the two young orang utans confiscated from the Taiping Zoo earlier this month, its director Dr Kevin Lazarus said.He said the zoo staff accepted the totally protected animals two or three weeks ago because they were concerned that the animals might be traded somewhere else."I was away at the time so I did not know who the donors were. We took the orang utans in as a social obligation,” said Dr Lazarus, who is also Malaysian Association of Zoological Parks and Aquaria chairman.He added that the zoo was in the process of writing a letter to inform the Department of Wildlife and National Park (Perhilitan

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2009/7/1/nation/4227459&sec=nation



Zoo, community mourn director

'I feel like I've lost a son,' director emeritus Hanna says It's business as usual at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium despite the heavy hearts mourning the death of Executive Director Jeff Swanagan, Jack Hanna said yesterday."Today, I feel like I've lost a son, but the zoo will go on and we'll continue Jeff's dreams," said Hanna, the zoo's director emeritus.Swanagan, 51, died Sunday night, apparently of a heart attack, shortly after complaining that he didn't feel well while cutting grass at his home in Powell. His wife found him on the couch, and he was rushed to a hospital.Dale Schmidt, chief operating officer since fall, will be interim director, the zoo board announced yesterday. Schmidt was president of the Oregon Coast Aquarium for four years.Hanna said Swanagan's organs

http://www.dispatch.com/live/content/local_news/stories/2009/06/30/swanaganfollow.ART_ART_06-30-09_B3_EAEB6JF.html?sid=101




Saving rhino gets government backing


The Pandeglang regency administration and legislative council have voiced their support for plans to expand the habitat of Javan rhinos at Ujung Kulon National Park (TNUK) in Banten province, on the western tip of Java. Regent Dimyati Natakusumah said the local administration and council hoped the TNUK would become a source of pride for the nation and also a world-renowned site that could pull in international revenue. "We've sent a letter to the Forestry Ministry to request an upgrade to the status of the TNUK to a World Wildlife Park, but they haven't responded yet," he said over the weekend, after a meeting in Pandeglang with representatives of international donors. To attain World Wildlife Park status, a park must have several


http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2009/06/24/saving-rhino-gets-government-backing.html



Time to go ape over plight of howler monkeys

THE howler monkeys of Colombia are used to adapting.As babies many are forcibly removed from their mothers to be sold as pets or the troupe is divided by deforestation.For the past decade a project at La Pintada has helped rehabilitate and protect howlers, either handed in or confiscated by the authorities.South Lakes Wild Animal Park has been involved for the past six years.And despite announcing two weeks ago that he is planning to leave the zoo and Dalton behind him following a vicious stabbing at his home two years ago, zoo owner David Gill went to Colombia this year as usual.David goes to South America to

http://www.nwemail.co.uk/news/barrow/time_to_go_ape_over_plight_of_howler_monkeys_1_573481?referrerPath=news



Rare turtles head to the Gulf

The pitter patter of tiny flippers could be heard on the beach in the wee hours of Saturday morning. At around 3 a.m., 92 precious little packages made their way to the ocean for the first time.They are newly hatched Kemp's Ridley sea turtles, the most endangered of all the sea turtles. But these particular babies were special in that their injured mother was the first turtle to come ashore on South Padre Island to nest this season, and had to be euthanized.During her journey to land, turtle observers believe she was struck by a boat, leaving

http://www.brownsvilleherald.com/news/sea-99007-turtle-turtles.html



As Fences Cut Off Migration, Hoofed Species Decline

One of the most spectacular events in nature — mass migrations by large, hoofed, grass-eating animals — is endangered. That's what scientists conclude after completing what they say is the first comprehensive look at this phenomenon.Grant Harris from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and a team of scientists compiled a record of all the great migrations in the historical record. These are "charismatic megafauna," says Harris: wildebeests and oryxes in Africa, caribous in North America, the antelopelike chiru in Asia. They move by the thousands over hundreds of miles of territory, seeking out fresh grass o

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=105165068



Years after they stopped soaring over city, 2 vultures found

Almost a decade after they went extinct, two vultures have now been found in the city. On Saturday afternoon, a highly endangered Egyptian Vulture was found by an NGO, Wildlife SOS, from near the Ghazipur abattoir. A few days earlier, another Egyptian Vulture, also known as the Scavenger Vulture, was found by the Jain Bird Hospital in Old Delhi. According to experts, a veterinary drug called ‘Diclofenac’, poisonous to vultures, has led to the bird’s near extinction across the country — the rate of decline is put between 9

http://www.indianexpress.com/news/Years-after-they-stopped-soaring-over-city--2-vultures-found/481857/



Southeast Asia's largest zoo for insects launched

In an effort to woo more visitors, Zoo Ne-gara yesterday opened the country's first and Southeast Asia's largest Insect Zoo which will showcase 200 species of endangered insects found in the country's tropical rainforest. President of the Malaysian Zoological Society Datuk Ismail Hutson said the Insect Zoo would attract more domestic and foreign tourists as it consists of rare butterflies and insects."Its collection includes the Atlas Butterfly which is the largest butterfly in the world and Rajah Brooke's Birdwing butterfly, a species which was first discovered in 1855, and is regarded as the 'Prince of Butterflies' for its beauty, and the Orchid Praying Mantis, an insect which can camouflage itself as

http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Sunday/National/2594036/Article/index_html



Say hello to 50th jumbo born at Pinnawela!

The orphanage begun with just seven orphans, now has 89 jumbos, thanks partly to a successful breeding programme. Malaka Rodrigo reports, Pic by Sanka Vidanagama It was 3 a.m. The silence of the night was disturbed by some hurried footsteps toward the doctors’ quarters. A sarong-clad figure knocked on the door and called out “Sir.. You are needed.” The summons was anticipated and taking his medical kit, Dr. Rajapakse hurried toward the dimly-lit shed in a corner of the Pinnawela orphanage. ‘Surangie’ the female elephant was grunting in pain, only minutes away from delivering her first born. Soon she gave birth to a fine male

http://www.sundaytimes.lk/090628/Plus/sundaytimesplus_02.html



Northern spotted owl loses genetic diversity

A new study has determined that with a drop in its numbers, the northern spotted owl has also lost genetic diversity. The northern spotted owl has been a controversial conservation icon for years, ever since large swaths of old-growth forest in the Pacific Northwest were set aside to protect the threatened bird 15 years

http://www.dnaindia.com/scitech/report_northern-spotted-owl-loses-genetic-diversity_1269225



At its 80th anniversary, S.F. Zoo reassesses

When the San Francisco Zoo opened during the Great Depression, chimpanzees were trained to ride elephants and zookeepers pried open big hippo jaws for applause.Eight decades later, the carnival has been replaced by conservation: The endangered aye-aye lemur lives in a pitch-black exhibit, so visitors can only glimpse the nocturnal animal after waiting 15 minutes for their eyes to adjust. While the zoo's approach to animal welfare has matured as it

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/06/27/BA5J18D3SM.DTL



Actor Still Wants To Close LA Zoo Elephant Exhibit

Actor Robert Culp is appealing a judge's decision to dismiss his lawsuit seeking to stop construction of a new elephant exhibit at the Los Angeles Zoo. In a lawsuit filed in August 2007, Culp and real estate agent Aaron Leider alleged the zoo withheld medical care, confined elephants in too small an area and used bull hooks and electric shock to control them. They also maintained a larger exhibit would be a waste of taxpayer money. While calling their arguments compelling -- including opinions from experts as far

http://cbs2.com/local/Los.Angeles.Zoo.2.1061488.html




Zoo's rainforest plans considered

Plans to transform Chester Zoo into Europe's largest conservation attraction are to go before the public.The £225m project includes a 56 hectare indoor African-themed rainforest where gorillas, chimpanzees and other tropical animals could move freely. The £90m "Heart of Africa" dome, which would form the initial phase of the scheme, would be the first of its kind in the UK. Chester Zoo is holding four public

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/merseyside/8122980.stm



For Ramat Gan safari, there's no business like elephants' business

Elephant droppings make quality compost, say staff at Ramat Gan Safari Park, and piles of it are saving piles of water. They have recently been using the droppings of the park's 12 elephants to fertilize the trees on the grounds, as well as to save water. Each elephant deposits seven kilograms of dung four times a day. After a few months the dung heap attracts bacteria, insects and worms, producing high quality compost. Safari staff are using the compost to seal the irrigation basin around young trees, enabling the water to permeate the roots, while slowing down its evaporation. "Until about a year ago we used to pay a company to collect the dung with a tractor," said zoologist Amelia Terkel. "But then we thought, why pay for removing it if we could use

http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1096317.html



Desperate bid to save finches that changed the world

British conservationists are to launch an ambitious project to safeguard the future of a colony of Galapagos finches which inspired Charles Darwin to formulate his radical theory of evolution. There are now only about 100 individuals left of the Galapagos mangrove finch, the rarest of the 14 closely related finch species that Darwin encountered when he visited the islands in 1835 as the naturalist on board the survey ship HMS Beagle. All of these species evolved from a single common ancestor to fit different niches in the ecosystem, and when Darwin realised this once he was back in

http://www.independent.co.uk/environment/nature/desperate-bid-to-save-finches-that-changed-the-world-1722941.html



First rhino born in Uganda after 20 years

A calf has been born among the six rhinos living at the breeding sanctuary in Nakasongola district. This is the first birth of a rhino in Uganda in the last 20 years and brings the total to nine.“The calf is three days old, but the mother is too protective. So, it is difficult to get close to them to establish its gender,” said Angie Genade, the executive director of Rhino Fund Uganda. The mother, 10-year-old Nandi, is one of the four rhinos that were donated by the Disney Animal Kingdom in the US. According to Genade, the donation was aimed at helping in the breeding of rhinos at Nakasongola for re-introduction into the country’s parks. She also pointed out that Nandi produced 16 months after conceiving and that this was her first birth. Rhinos are globally endangered because of their

http://www.newvision.co.ug/D/8/13/686228



4 baby elephants arrive in City

After tireless efforts by the Community Development Department (CDD) of CDGK, four baby elephants from Tanzania will be arriving here on late Monday night through a special charter airplane and would be kept in Safari Park for quarantine period, informed sources told The Nation. The sources confirmed that after removing all the hurdles, the four baby elephants would be landed at Karachi airport at 11:30pm through a charter flight, hired by the exporter company Osaka traders, sources said. They added that the four baby elephants would be shifted to Safari Park soon after their arrival where a quarantine station has been established. After staying for at least 15 days at the quarantine station, they would be shifted into a big enclosure for elephants. The DO Safari Park, Raza Abbas Rizvi, said that all arrangements for housing the elephants in the quarantine station had been completed and the visitors of Safari Park would be able to see the four baby elephants in the quarantine station from the very first day in the park. The EDO of CDD, Rehana Saif, confirmed The Nation that

http://www.nation.com.pk/pakistan-news-newspaper-daily-english-online/Regional/Karachi/30-Jun-2009/4-baby-elephants-arrive-in-City



Massive New Home For Curious Kea

A new walk-through Kea aviary is complete at Orana Wildlife Park and tomorrow some of the residents move in!Tomorrow, Orana Wildlife Park's elderly Kea, Silver (20) and Kikimo (24), will move home from their 30 year old aviary (64 square metres) into a newly completed 352 square metre home. The birds will be given the chance to adapt to their new setting before the aviary is opened to the public later this year.This exciting 'walk-through' exhibit was built by the Park's Development team. The aviary has been five years in the planning and took one year to construct. It will provide the Kea with a healthier home and enable visitors to have close encounters with the 'Clown of the Mountains.'Head Keeper of Native Fauna, Tara Atkinson, says she cannot wait to see

http://www.voxy.co.nz/national/massive-new-home-curious-kea/5/17174



'Trouble in Paradise' installations at Vienna zoo draw attention to environmental issues

German artists Christoph Steinbrener and Rainer Dempf have crafted a strange combination -- art installation meets zoo exhibit -- at Vienna's Schönbrunn Zoo. The end result, called "Trouble in Paradise," is intended to raise awareness about the perils of habitat destruction in an innovative, if off-putting, way. The zoo says the artists used the concept of the readymade -- everyday objects functioning as art, made famous by artist Marcel Duchamp with pieces such as "Bicycle Wheel" and "Fountain" -- as inspiration. The exhibits created by Steinbrener and Dempf include a penguin habitat with a prominently placed oil pump, railroad tracks in the bison enclosure, and wrecked cars submerged in the water of the rhinoceros enclosure. "Trouble in Paradise" will run through October 18, after which the altered enclosures will be returned to their original, pristine states."Trouble in Paradise" has already proven provocative: three zoogoers

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/unleashed/2009/06/vienna-zoo-trouble-in-paradise.html



LA council approves $1.1M overrun for zoo elephant project

The Los Angeles City Council on Tuesday approved a $1.1 million cost overrun for the second phase of the Pachyderm Forest at the Los Angeles Zoo, with promises of tightened procedures for future work. The elephant project generated controversy earlier this year when animal activists mounted a massive campaign to get the zoo to shut down the exhibit and relocate its lone elephant, Billy. After a lengthy debate, the council voted in January to continue building the $42 million project. "What's done is done," said Councilman Tony Cardenas, who had opposed the overall project. "We can't do much about that at this point, but we can look ahead to make sure we have procedures in place to prevent cost overruns." City officials said the higher costs were due to price increases

http://www.contracostatimes.com/california/ci_12726241



Interactive: The endangered Arabian wildlife

http://www.gulfnews.com/nation/Environment/10323051.html

http://www.gulfnews.com/nation/Environment/10325341.html

http://www.gulfnews.com/nation/Environment/10315320.html


Rare: Endangered fishing cats which swim join zoo

TWO rare fishing cats have arrived at Newquay Zoo to join a breeding programme for the endangered species.The cats arrived from Port Lympne Wild Animal and Safrai Park in Kent this week.Named Ping (female) and Bing (male), the cats will take a few weeks to settle in at their new surroundings.Numbers of fishing cats have decreased as their waterways in Pakistan, India and Nepal are cleared or polluted. They are also used for medicine by some cultures and hunted ferociously by farmers, due to their capability of taking livestock.Director of Newquay Zoo, Stewart Muir, said: "Unusually for a cat, but as the name suggests, fishing cats

http://www.thisiscornwall.co.uk/cornishguardian/Rare-Endangered-fishing-cats-swim-join-zoo/article-1123949-detail/article.html



ZooRopia at Bristol Zoo: A treetop view of a wild, wonderful world

A new zoo attraction is giving visitors a chance to see its inhabitants from a different perspective. As I climb into my harness, that classic Disney refrain, "I'm the king of the swingers, a Jungle VIP", is dancing around in my head; its infectious beat overlaid with the excited chirruping from the group of children who surround me. I'm at Bristol Zoo and I'm just about to have a go on their latest attraction, ZooRopia. Part ropes course, part aerial nature trail, it's the first of its kind in Europe that is open to anybody over the age of five and is set in a zoo environment

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/wildlife/5651851/ZooRopia-at-Bristol-Zoo-A-treetop-view-of-a-wild-wonderful-world.html



Hi-tech puffins to monitor decline in seabird populations

Stubby seabird with comedy beak to help scientists investigate steep decline in seabird populations across BritainAudio slideshow: Studying puffins on the Farne islands

http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2009/jul/01/puffin-decline-satellite



Earning their stripes

Next week in Geneva, a prime issue for a UN endangered species committee called Cites will be illegal trade in wild tigers. In this week's Green Room, Debbie Banks argues that a handful of businessmen want to reduce the tigers to nothing more than a luxury commodity."Bagh Bachao, Jungle Bachao, Bharat Bachao" is the rallying cry of NGOs and activists across India, and they're right: Save the Tiger, Save the Forest, Save India. The future of the tiger and its jungle home are inextricably linked to the survival of all of us, not just the people who live in tiger country. The forests that are protected in the name of the tiger are vital to mitigate climate change and to secure water resources. The tiger is an indicator of the health of the ecosystem and thus a symbol of good governance and political commitment to an equitable and sustainable future. It is also a cultural and religious icon, venerated, feared and revered by communities across Asia and the world. The Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) has been investigating and exposing the illegal trade in tigers and other Asian big cats for over 10 years. We have documented the changes in the markets and the increasing role of organised criminal networks. We have campaigned for more effective enforcement initiatives to disrupt their operations, and know there is so much more that governments could do if they wanted to. Hijacked conservationLooking to the future, it is essential to plug some of the gaps in conservation strategies. Many people living alongside tigers have yet to benefit from the millions of tourist dollars that the "world's favourite animal" generates; but in India, home to the largest remaining population of wild tigers, investment, policy and practice are at least moving in the right direction. The same cannot be said for other countries, where business interests are hijacking the tiger conservation agenda, calling for the relaxation of trade bans so they can flood the market with farmed tiger parts. The logic behind such a move is that since tigers breed well in captivity, farming them is an economical solution to satisfying demand whilst alleviating pressure on wild populations. It's a simplistic logic that rests on critical assumptions about the complex nature and dynamics of the illegal trade in tigers and other Asian big cats. Assumptions about the motivations of those involved in the trade, the costs of the trade, the scale and type of consumer demand: all plugged in to economic models and squirted out the other side as gospel. What the followers of this faith have failed to acknowledge is that their version of events does not hold true in the real world. The risk of proceeding with this as an experiment is enormous, and the stake is no less than the extinction of the wild tiger. So who are these disciples and what is their motivation? There are tiger farms in Thailand but by far the biggest ones are in China, where there are reportedly around 5,000 animals in captivity. Despite a 1993 ban prohibiting the sale and use of tigers in China, business interests have continued to breed them, speculating that the ban would one day be lifted and that they would be sitting on a valuable stockpile of body parts. 'Conflict of interest'Some argue that they want to sell tiger bone to save lives. Yet the Chinese medicinal community has long since promoted alternatives to tiger bone, which was never considered a life-saving ingredient in the first place. Others just want to sell tiger bone wine. In fact, some businessmen are so keen they have already been found in breach of Chinese law, illegally selling the wine in tiger-shaped bottles and in one case, selling tiger meat. EIA and others have found tiger bone wine being marketed as a general tonic and packaged

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/8124176.stm

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ZOO BIOLOGY

The Zoo Biology Group is concerned with all disciplines involved inthe running of a Zoological Garden. Captive breeding, husbandry,cage design and construction, diets, enrichment, man management,record keeping, etc etc

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/zoo-biology




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Presented by Active Environments and Shape of Enrichment
Hosted by The Oakland Zoo, Oakland , CA , USA
Instructors: Gail Laule, Margaret Whittaker, and Val Hare




TRAINING AND ENRICHMENT WORKSHOP for ZOO ANIMALS
16-20 November 2009




Active Environments is proud to present the third Training and Enrichment Workshop with our new host, The Oakland Zoo. This unique five-day workshop will present an array of topics relating to behavioral management with particular emphasis on positive reinforcement training techniques (PRT) and environmental enrichment (EE). The workshop is designed for keepers, managers, supervisors, curators, and veterinarians working with a wide array of animals held in zoos. This workshop emphasizes the behavioral management approach to caring for captive animals, with focus on environmental enrichment, positive reinforcement training, and the problem-solving process. Workshop format includes lecture, discussion, small group projects, demonstrations, and multiple hands-on training and enrichment opportunities with Oakland Zoo’s diverse collection. Skills taught are directly related to enhancing staff’s ability to manage captive animal behavior, improve animal welfare, and enhance the overall care and management of captive animals. The Workshop format is designed to maximize the value for each participant and as much as possible to address specific situations, needs, problems, and objectives. Be prepared to interact, share, and participate to make the experience as useful and relevant to you as possible.

The registration fee (TBD) includes the following:
· 6 nights stay in the La Quinta Inn at Oakland Airport
· All workshop materials, including a copy of Don’t Shoot the Dog
· All breakfasts, lunches and snacks during the workshop
· Icebreaker, one dinner, and closing banquet (3 dinners)
· Transportation to and from workshop and airport
· Commemorative Workshop t-shirt





We have reserved a block of rooms at the Hotel based on double occupancy; single rooms available with increased registration fee.

For further information contact:
Active Environments, Inc.
7651 Santos Road Lompoc, CA 93436
Tel: 805-737-3700
E-mail: info@activeenvironments.org
Margaret Whittaker ( Active Environments ): indu22@earthlink.net
Margaret Rousser (Oakland Zoo): margaret@oaklandzoo.org
Or: Shape of Enrichment
Website: http://www.enrichment.org/

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Avian Ambassadors' 6th Annual Raptor Handling Class
Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th July, 2009
From 9.30a to 4.00p at The Marriott Hotel, Albuquerque , NM





Meet the stars of the Flights of Education Shows





We are pleased to announce that we have added a guest presenter to our class this year. Robin Shewokis of The Leather Elves will present an introduction to Enrichment for Captive Raptors. Robin has consulted with zoos around the world on the subject of Enrichment for captive animals; this is a great opportunity to have her visit Albuquerque !





In addition to Robin's presentation the class covers:





Basic raptor biology
Equipment used with raptors in educational programs
Handling techniques
Raptor possession permit requirements
Introduction to science based training strategies
Hands-on time with birds





Since this class has a hands-on component the size of the class is limited so please make your reservation as soon as possible.





The cost of the class is $65.00 per person; this includes a printed handbook and a lunch snack on each day. Please call (505) 349 5714 or email classes@AvianAmbassadors.com for a registration form today.




Places in the class will be filled on a first come first served basis. Your registration will be confirmed when we acknowledge receipt of payment.
We have secured a special room rate at the Marriott Uptown Hotel of $89.00 per night for those travelling to Albuquerque .




Please call (505) 881-6800 to make room reservations and be sure to mention the "Raptor Handling Class" in order to secure the special rate.

Avian Ambassadors - Flights of Education
http://www.avianambassadors.com/
The Training Blog


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ABC Dolphin Trainer Academy




pre-registration ends July 15 for the Basic workshop September 14 to 18, 2009




Hosted by Dolphin Discovery Isla Mujeres.




For more information please go to http://www.abcanimaltraining.com/ to register or email me directly to reserve your place at swood@abcanimaltraining.com




Thanks




Shelley Wood




ABC Training Systems




swood@abcanimaltraining.com




http://www.abcanimaltraining.com/

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Animal Keeper's Forum



April/May 2009 AKF Special Issue Table of Contents




The Care and Management of Geriatric Animals in Zoos




From the President - Remembering the Golden Girls




Acknowledgements from the Editor




The Future is Now: New Strategies for Geriatric Care at the Oakland Zoo




Some Thoughts on Veterinary Considerations on the Management of the Geriatric Zoo Patient



Pachyderm Milestones



The Oldest of the Old



An Easy Way Out: PVC Ladder Assists Geriatric Animals



The Old Hippo That Could



Searching for Your Support (GoodSearch.com)



It's a Geriatric Jungle Out There



Joint Disease and Its Management in Captive Bear Species



Never Too Late



Assiniboine Park Zoo's Debby the Polar Bear



The Widower - Care of a Geriatric Bird at The National Aviary



The Care and Management of Geriatric Gorillas in Captivity and The Role of Louisville Zoo's Husbandry Program



Gravity and Hydrotherapy Procedures as a Way to Reduce the Possibility of Stiffening Joints in Elephants After an Injury



A Public Relations Professional's Look at Geriatric Animals and Euthanasia
Donna the Hippo is 57 years Old



Using Cue Conditioning to Facilitate Voluntary Separation for Supplemental Feeding in a Geriatric 0.1 Scimitar-horned Oryx (Oryx dammah)



World's Oldest Asian Elephant Lived to be 86 Years Old



Some Considerations in the Care of an Elderly Red-Ruffed Lemur



Collaborative Management and Interpretation of Arthritis in a Geriatric Giraffe
Indoors Natural Substrates for Elephants and Medical Issues Associated with Hard Surfaces



Old Bears, New Care



Improving the Quality of Life for Tiffany, a 40-year-old Female Western Lowland Gorilla (Gorilla g. gorilla) at the Topeka Zoo



Topeka Zoo's Long-lived Hippo Duo



Ode to the Oldies: Geriatric Keepers Caring for Geriatric Critters



Longevity in the Animal Kingdom





To Purchase: http://www.aazk.org/pub_geriatric_animals_issue.php




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Zoo Biology
Current Issue
Volume 28 Issue 3 (May/June 2009)



Research Articles



Genetic diversity in captive and wild Matschie's tree kangaroo (Dendrolagus matschiei) from Huon Peninsula, Papua New Guinea, based on mtDNA control region sequences (p 183-196)



Thomas J. McGreevy, Lisa Dabek, Marta Gomez-Chiarri, Thomas P. Husband





A complex Enrichment Diet improves growth and health in the endangered Wyoming toad (Bufo baxteri) (p 197-213)



H. Li, M.J. Vaughan, R.K. Browne





Retrospective investigation of captive red wolf reproductive success in relation to age and inbreeding (p 214-229)



K.M. Lockyear, W.T. Waddell, K.L. Goodrowe, S.E. MacDonald





Extinction risk assessment for the species survival plan (SSP®) population of the Bali mynah (Leucopsar rothschildi) (p 230-252)



Joanne M. Earnhardt, Steven D. Thompson, Lisa J. Faust





Brief Reports



Endoparasitism in captive wild-caught snakes indigenous to Kerala, India (p 253-258)



S. Radhakrishnan, S. P. Kurup, P. S. Banerjee





Technical Reports



Development of a noncontact and long-term respiration monitoring system using microwave radar for hibernating black bear (p 259-270)



Satoshi Suzuki, Takemi Matsui, Hiroshi Kawahara, Shinji Gotoh





Book Reviews



All you ever wanted to know about marsupials (p 271-273)



Daniel K. Maloney



http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/35728/home



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Now a bit of fun for insect lovers everywhere:



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3lv8pq77Qas




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JOURNAL of THREATENED TAXA



JUNE 2009 Vol. 1 No. 6 Pages 309-360
Date of Publication 26 June 2009




An assessment of human-elephant conflict in Manas National Park, Assam, India
--Naba K Nath, Bibhuti P Lahkar, Namita Brahma, Santanu Dey, Jyoti P Das, Pranjit K Sarma & Bibhab K Talukdar, Pp.309-316
Abstract HTML PDF (1060Kb)

Taxonomic and scientific inaccuracies in a consultancy report on biodiversity: a cautionary note
--Mohomed M. Bahir & Dinesh E. Gabadage, Pp.317-322
Abstract HTML PDF (168Kb)

Assessment of the release program of the European Roe Deer Capreolus capreolus (Cetartiodactyla: Cervidae) at Ajloun Nature Reserve, Jordan
--Ehab Khalil Eid & Yaseen Ananbeh, Pp.323-326
Abstract HTML PDF (311Kb)

Diet of three insectivorous birds in Nagapattinam District, Tamil Nadu, India – a preliminary study
--S. Asokan, A. Mohamed Samsoor Ali & R. Manikannan, Pp.327-330
Abstract HTML PDF (158Kb)

Redescription, distribution and status of the Karwar Large Burrowing Spider Thrigmopoeus truculentus Pocock, 1899 (Araneae: Theraphosidae), a Western Ghats endemic ground mygalomorph
--Manju Siliwal & Sanjay Molur, Pp.331-339
Abstract HTML PDF (986Kb)

Diversity and distribution of macrofungi in the man-made Pitchandikulam Forest of Tamil Nadu, southern India
--S. Mani & V. Kumaresan, Pp.340-343
Abstract HTML PDF (190Kb)

Aspergillus species isolated from mangrove forests in Borneo Island, Sarawak, Malaysia
--Jaya Seelan Sathiya Seelan, A.A.K. Faisal Ali & Sepiah Muid, Pp.344-346
Abstract HTML PDF (394Kb)

A new black mildew fungus Meliola erumeliensis from Idukki, Kerala, India
--V.B. Hosagoudar, G.R. Archana, M. Rajendraprasad & A. Nazarudeen, P.347
Abstract HTML PDF (183Kb)

Meliolaceae of Kerala, India – XXVIII
--V.B. Hosagoudar & G.R. Archana, Pp.348-350
Abstract HTML PDF (308Kb)

Rediscovery of Small Salmon Arab Colotis amata Fabricius (Lepidoptera: Pieridae) from saline and semi-saline areas of West Bengal, India
--Soumyajit Chowdhury & Rahi Soren, Pp.351-352
Abstract HTML PDF (168Kb)

Rediscovery of the Banded Krait Bungarus fasciatus (Schneider 1801) (Serpentes: Elapidae) from Warangal District, Andhra Pradesh, India
--C. Srinivasulu, D. Venkateshwarlu & M. Seetharamaraju, Pp.353-354
Abstract HTML PDF (263Kb)

Observations on rutting behaviour of Hangul Deer Cervus elaphus hanglu (Cetartiodactyla: Cervidae) in Dachigam National Park, Kashmir, India
--Bilal A. Bhat, G. Mustafa Shah, Ulfat Jan, Fayaz A. Ahangar & M.F. Fazili, Pp.355-357
Abstract HTML PDF (171Kb)

Note on breeding and parental care behaviours of albino Hoary-bellied Squirrel Callosciurus pygerythrus (Rodentia: Sciuridae) in Sibsagar District of Assam, India
--Girindra Kalita, Pp.358-360
Abstract HTML PDF (197Kb)



http://www.threatenedtaxa.org/





*******************************************************************************

2010 Post-doctoral Fellowship in Conservation Research

The Society for Conservation Biology is pleased to solicit applications for the David H. Smith Conservation Research Fellowship Program. These Fellowships enable outstanding early-career scientists based at a United States institution to improve and expand their research skills while directing their efforts towards problems of pressing conservation concern for the United States. The Program especially encourages individuals who want to better link conservation science and theory with pressing policy and management applications to apply. We envision that the cadre of scientists supported by the Smith Fellows Program eventually will assume leadership positions across the field of conservation science. Fellows are selected on the basis of innovation, potential for leadership and strength of proposal.

Read More: http://www.conbio.org/smithfellows/apply/

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Jellyfish at the Waikiki Aquarium
http://vimeo.com/5354382

*******************************************************************************
Announcing the ASZK Des Spittall Scholarship for Keeper Research


Named in honour of the late Des Spittall, a life member of ASZK, the ASZK committee has launched the Des Spittall Scholarship for keeper research. This is open to people who have been a financial member of ASZK for 12 months or more. This is an annual scholarship up to the value of $2,000. Applications close 31st October 2009
Please forward ‘Des Spittall Scholarship for Keeper Research’ application to ASZK President no later than 31st of October each year at email eo@aszk.org.au

************************************************************************


For Zoo Jobs and Related Vacancies please visit:http://zoowork.blogspot.com/


For notification of Zoo related Meetings, Conferences, Courses and Symposia go to: http://zoosymposia.blogspot.com/

************************************************************************

ZooNews Digest is an independent publication, not allied or attached to any zoological collection. Many thanks.

Kind Regards,

Wishing you a wonderful week,

Peter Dickinson


Zoo News Digest Blog
http://zoonewsdigest.blogspot.com/


ZooNews Digest Webpage
http://www.zoonewsdigest.com/


Zoo Vacancies Blog
http://zoowork.blogspot.com/


Hub Pages
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Follow me on Twitter at:
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http://www.geocities.com/peterd482001/ZooNews_Digest.html

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http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/zoonewsdigest/

Owner/Moderator Zoo Biology

http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/zoo-biology/

Tel: United Kingdom ++ (0) 750 3707 968

Mailing address:

Suite 201,
Gateway House,
78 Northgate Street,
Chester,
CH1 2HR
United Kingdom

"I may get hit by a bus tomorrow so I will live today"

Friday, June 26, 2009

ZooNews Digest 23rd - 26th June 2009 (Zoo News 603)

ZooNews Digest 23rd - 26th June 2009 (Zoo News 603)
http://zoonewsdigest.com/

http://zoonewsdigest.blogspot.com/

Peter Dickinson peterd482001@yahoo.co.uk



Dear Colleagues,

Whilst I was away in the Philippines I was unable to read the 'Bangkok Post' so I missed my morning Chiang Mai Panda updates. Now I am back in Thailand the paper is relatively quiet on the subject. Not so the TV. There is the cub in an incubator, picked up prodded and examined. What surprises me is that it is still being mother reared...or apparently so. Why I ask though do people have to interfere? If it was left untouched in the first place it would as likely be in top physical and mental health now and so too would be the mother. If the cub had died...she would have learnt something for the next round. It is the cubs first birthday tomorrow and festivities are planned.


The front of this mornings Bangkok Post has a photograph of an elephant painted up like a Panda at the Ayutthaya Elephant Kraal. This to draw attention to the fact that other animals need attention too. To true. I have previously gone on about the zoo's neglect for other, rarer, species under their care.....and now they are going to spend 20 million Thai Baht on a new set up, a 'snow house' for the 'Panda Family'.





I note that Al Ain Zoo is making the claim to be the "Hottest Zoo in the World". It probably is too. Although it is more than 25 years since I last worked there I can still clearly recall the hot days. I discovered that when my eyeballs immediately dried up that the temperature had reached 49C. Hot eh? It got worse. I can remember the temperature hitting 53C on several days. Sometimes we even got hotter temperatures at night. It may well be hotter still since global warming arrived. Yes...hottest zoo in the world.

I see there is outrage about new animals at Limassol Zoo. I don't know whether to share the protest or not. I have not visited the place since 1981. I'd like to think there had been a big change since then. It was awful.



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On with the links:




Panda cub turns one month old tomorrow

First, there will be a very big cake measuring 1.2 metres wide and 1.7 metres long. Then, students from 10 schools will sing "Happy Birthday" to the fluffy female cub in front of her cage.The baby panda is also set to get many birthday presents. As the cub will be on public display tomorrow, visitors are being encouraged to bring along presents or something the cub will be able to play with. The presents may be wooden toys or rocking horses. "They can be playthings for the baby when she is a few months old," panda project chief Prasertsak Boontrakulpoontawee says. The baby, which now weighs more than 1 kg, was born in Thailand on May 27 to Lin Hui and her mate Chuang Chuang. Lin Hui has proved to be a

http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2009/06/26/national/national_30106061.php




Thai elephants just have to grin and bear it

The Ayutthaya Elephant Kraal has painted Plai Panlan, a 5-year-old male elephant, in the panda colours of black and white to remind the public that elephants have needs, too.The watercolour is harmless, and the elephant did not seem to mind. Kraal staff are gently mocking the national craze over the female panda cub born to Lin Hui and Xuang Xuang at Chiang Mai zoo.Kraal manager Itthipan Kaolamai said staff were striking a blow for Thai elephant causes. Many of the beasts were still in need of state help, but in all the fuss over pandas

http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/local/19135/thai-elephants-just-have-to-grin-and-bear-it



Zion is cleared to open

Zion Wildlife Gardens - closed after a keeper was killed by a tiger last month - has been cleared to reopen for public tours today.It's given everyone a real positive lift that they needed. We were still grieving. This reopening is what Dalu would have wantedSara Reid, Zion spokeswoman World-famous Whangarei big cat park Zion Wildlife Gardens - closed after a keeper was killed by a tiger last month - has been cleared to reopen for public tours today.The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) and the Department of Labour yesterday approved the reopening from 9.30am today with rules in place to prevent staff from having direct contact with adult animals among the park's 40 lions, tigers and leopards.Zion keeper Dalu Mncube d

http://www.northernadvocate.co.nz/local/news/zion-is-cleared-to-open/3900521/



More than a zoo

When an American journalist asked him “what attracts you personally to the desert?”, TE Lawrence responded: “it’s clean”. Now, the Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort, formerly known as the Al Ain Zoo, is planning to show visitors that there’s much more to enjoy in the desert.This project is not about building a traditional zoo or resort. Rather, it seeks to transform the idea of what a zoo or resort can be. The 900 hectare wildlife park plans to be the only place in the world where visitors can experience life in various deserts around the world, such as the Kalahari or the Sahara. It’s an ambitious attempt that will put Al Ain on the map for the “hottest” zoo in the world. But the vision goes beyond that. By breeding endangered species and recreating threatened desert environments, visitors

http://www.thenational.ae/article/20090621/OPINION/706209898



Mysore zoo to have a few exotic species soon

The century-old Mysore zoo has succeeded in its efforts to procure exotic species of animals and birds from the zoos abroad with the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests (MEoF) reportedly giving its consent for its exchange programme. Accordingly, the zoo will exchange animals and birds with the prestigious Singapore Zoo and Zoo Zlin in the Czech Republic.The last exchange of animals by the zoo with a foreign zoo was in 1996. Since then, the zoo did not achieve success despite submitting several proposals to enrich its collection.The “never quitting attitude” of one of the oldest and biggest zoos in the country finally paid off with the Union Ministry giving its approval for exporting and importing animals and birds.With this, the zoo authorities are making efforts to obtain permission from the agencies concerned.In a few weeks, those visiting the zoo may see some rare and endangered species of animals and birds from Singapore and the Czech Republic.Sources in the zoo told The Hindu that

http://www.hindu.com/2009/06/21/stories/2009062159740500.htm



City zoo fire is treated as arson

A fire which destroyed the Mountain Tea House at Belfast Zoo is being treated as arson by police.None of the animals were injured in the blaze. Intruder and fire alarms were set off at the cafe in north Belfast shortly after midnight on Tuesday. Firefighters were called to the scene at Bellevue. Zoo spokeswoman Joy Bond said the zoo would be open to the public but the area around the blaze was cordoned off. "The tea house has been significantly damaged. There is very little of it left. We are pleased to say that our animals are ok," she said. "We do worry that fires may spread

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/8114156.stm



Death of animal handler at Zion an accident waiting to happen?

The Zion Wildlife Park reopened over the weekend - not quite a month after animal handler Dalu Mncube was mauled to death by a white tiger.Campbell Live has been investigating Mr Mncube’s death and asking whether it was simply terribly bad luck, or an accident waiting to happen.Our research suggests the latter.Campbell Live has talked to two people with strong views on the operation of the park.First – a former staff member who argues the culture instituted by the Lion Man, Craig Busch, became unmanageable after he left – sacked by his mother Patricia.Demetri Price was a handler at the park, and a qualified supporter of Craig Busch.Mr Price resigned earlier this year and returned to Australia.Campbell Live strenuously asked Patricia Busch for an interview, but she declined.Tim Husband is the highly experienced consultant

http://www.3news.co.nz/News/NationalNews/Death-of-animal-handler-at-Zion-an-accident-waiting-to-happen/tabid/423/articleID/109756/cat/64/Default.aspx



Valley Zoo calls for phones to save gorillas

The Valley Zoo is calling on Edmontonians to help save a rare gorilla habitat.And it's as simple as dropping off your old cellphones for recycling.Cellphones contain a mineral called Tantalum, found in an ore called Coltan, officials said today.This ore is mined in the Congo, where the endangered silver back gorillas live.The mining is destroying rare gorilla habitat.Officials said the gorilla population in the Congo has dropped 90% in the past five years.Cellphones and accessories donated to the Valley Zoo will be directed to an organization called ECO-Cell – the "premiere cell phone recycling program for environmentally-minded fundraisers," according to the group's website.Zoo officials believe that will help eliminate the need for increased mining in gorilla habitat.ECO-Cell will also return a portion of the proceeds from the phones to the zoo, which will be directed to conservation efforts, officials said."This is a great opportunity to help save wildlife habitat and dropping off a

http://www.edmontonsun.com/news/edmonton/2009/06/23/9902111.html



London Zoo's flamingo chicks have an unusual fear -- the color pink

Two flamingo chicks at the London Zoo are making life difficult for their keepers with their bizarre aversion to the color pink.The chicks, named Little and Large for the obvious reasons, are being hand-raised by zoo staff. Since Little needed to gain some weight, keepers tried to encourage him to eat by feeding him through a lifelike-if-your-brain-is-the-size-of-a-walnut pink sock meant to resemble

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/unleashed/2009/06/london-zoo-flamingos-scared-of-pink-.html



Wild monkeys under threat

Monkeys, some of them protected by law, are being trapped and sold as pets and, worse, for their meat.This is occurring at the Tudan Resettlement Scheme in Kuala Baram, near here, where some 6,000 squatters have been relocated.The whole area was forested 10 years ago and filled with wildlife but recently, more than 1,000ha of land has been cleared for squatters to set up their resettlement homes.And the wildlife in the area has become

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2009/6/26/nation/4188467&sec=nation



Saving rhino gets government backing

The Pandeglang regency administration and legislative council have voiced their support for plans to expand the habitat of Javan rhinos at Ujung Kulon National Park (TNUK) in Banten province, on the western tip of Java. Regent Dimyati Natakusumah said the local administration and council hoped the TNUK would become a source of pride for the nation and also a world-renowned site that could pull in international revenue. "We've sent a letter to the Forestry Ministry to request an upgrade to the status of the TNUK to a World Wildlife Park, but they haven't responded yet," he said over the weekend, after a meeting in Pandeglang with representatives of international donors. To attain World Wildlife Park status, a park must have several water reservoirs and a fence encircling it to keep the rhinos within the park area. The regency council speaker, H.M. Acang, backed

http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2009/06/24/saving-rhino-gets-government-backing.html



Zoo officials hunt swimming horse


OFFICIALS of the TT Zoological Society were on Wednesday called out to Dhein’s Bay, in Chaguaramas, to rescue a horse swimming in the waters off the western coastline.It was initially reported that the horse had drowned but fishermen fishing off Five Islands said they saw the horse taking a swim. Up to late Wednesday, the horse had not been found. Head of the Zoological Society, Gupte Lutchmedial told Newsday they received a call at about 7 am, from an official at the Paddock of the Arima Race Club indicating that they should go to Dhein’s Bay to retrieve the carcass of a race horse which had drowned while taking a bath. Lutchmedial said when zoo officials arrived at the bay, the horse was no where to be seen. Curator of the Emperor Valley Zoo, St Ann’s, said

http://www.newsday.co.tt/news/0,102732.html



'Miracle' gibbon birth at Swedish zoo

A nearly 40-year-old gibbon has given birth to a healthy baby at a zoo in central Sweden, much to the surprise of zoo officials who just a few months ago thought the mother may be dying.Last winter, zookeepers at the Parken Zoon in Eskilstuna thought the female gibbon appeared lethargic and feared that death was knocking on her door.But subsequent tests revealed she was pregnant, and

http://www.thelocal.se/20258/20090625/



Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo clocks its one millionth visitor
Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo has become one of the most visited attractions in Dubai.This leisure attraction at The Dubai Mall recently welcomed its one millionth visitor, a landmark achieved in less than seven months of its opening. Having over one million paid visitors - who have experienced the aquarium tunnel and underwater zoo - complements the several thousands

http://www.ameinfo.com/201652.html



Outrage over decision to bring more animals to Limassol zoo

AMID JUBILATION that the year-long efforts of animal rights activists lead to the removal of a family of leopards from Limassol zoo, Limassol Municipality has announced its decision for the centre to continue operating, undergo an €300,000 upgrade and bring more animals including kangaroos, llamas and monkeys. The decision has infuriated animal rights group ARC/KIVOTOS which has threatened to take legal action against the zoo for operating without a licence for the past seven years.“We are making all these efforts to repatriate the animals and succeeded in taking them to a better environment at no cost for the authorities. But it is inconceivable that we struggle for decades to do this and then they want to bring more animals in. “We will be taking legal action because Limassol Zoo has been operating illegally without a licence from Veterinary Services for the past seven years,” Kyriakos Kyriakou, Director of ARC told the Cyprus Mail.“When you get a parking ticket, you go and pay it without protesting. But the state has been breaking the law for years without any sanctions. Enough is enough,” Kyriakou added.At present, the wild animals remaining at Limassol zoo include two baboons, one langur monkey, a zebra, a raccoon, porcupines, a moufflon, exotic birds, as well as hawks and eagle owls.“These animals live in desperate conditions. The racoon, for exam

http://www.cyprus-mail.com/news/main.php?id=46359&cat_id=1


***************************************************

ZOO BIOLOGY

The Zoo Biology Group is concerned with all disciplines involved in the running of a Zoological Garden. Captive breeding, husbandry, cage design and construction, diets, enrichment, man management,record keeping, etc etc

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/zoo-biology



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Announcing the ASZK Des Spittall Scholarship for Keeper Research





Named in honour of the late Des Spittall, a life member of ASZK, the ASZK committee has launched the Des Spittall Scholarship for keeper research. This is open to people who have been a financial member of ASZK for 12 months or more. This is an annual scholarship up to the value of $2,000. Applications close 31st October 2009
Please forward ‘Des Spittall Scholarship for Keeper Research’ application to ASZK President no later than 31st of October each year at email eo@aszk.org.au

************************************************************************


For Zoo Jobs and Related Vacancies please visit:http://zoowork.blogspot.com/


For notification of Zoo related Meetings, Conferences, Courses and Symposia go to: http://zoosymposia.blogspot.com/

************************************************************************

ZooNews Digest is an independent publication, not allied or attached to any zoological collection. Many thanks.

Kind Regards,

Wishing you a wonderful week,

Peter Dickinson





Zoo News Digest Blog
http://zoonewsdigest.blogspot.com/


ZooNews Digest Webpage
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Owner/Moderator Zoo Biology
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Tel: United Kingdom ++ (0) 750 3707 968

Mailing address:

Suite 201,
Gateway House,
78 Northgate Street,
Chester,
CH1 2HR
United Kingdom

"I may get hit by a bus tomorrow so I will live today"

Thursday, June 18, 2009

ZooNews Digest 17th - 22nd June 2009 (Zoo News 602)

ZooNews Digest 17th - 22nd June 2009 (Zoo News 602)
http://zoonewsdigest.com/

http://zoonewsdigest.blogspot.com/

Peter Dickinson peterd482001@yahoo.co.uk



Dear Colleagues,

Returned to Thailand from the Philippines just a couple of days ago. It is a long story but I feel emotionally exhausted.
I took the opportunity, when it wasn't raining heavily, to re-visit a couple of animal collections and hope to have some hub pages ready in a few days time.

I was looking through The Forbes List of the best zoos in the world. I am not really in a position to be critical because I have only visited four out of the 15 listed and some of those not since 1970. I reckon everyone would have their own list. The amateurs look for and at different aspects of zoos than do zoo professionals. Out of those I have visited over the past few years that have ticked the right boxes for me, are:

There are other good and excellent ones of course, and many many many worse and bad zoos. The point is that none of these appear on Forbes list.

I was fascinated to read of the frogs taking up homes in elephant dung. Isn't nature wonderful? Some think they have a shitty life whereas others really do.




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On with the links:



£50k appeal for Mercedes the polar bear to move home

AN APPEAL has been launched to raise £50,000 to pay for the UK's only polar bear to move to a better home.The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) hopes to transfer Mercedes the polar bear from Edinburgh Zoo to a larger enclosure at the Highland Wildlife Park in Kingussie, near Inverness. However, RZSS, the charity that runs both

http://news.scotsman.com/scotland/50k-appeal-for-Mercedes-the.5367821.jp



Tigers burn bright with new cubs

Three rare Amur tiger cubs born at the Highland Wildlife Park, near Kingussie, have been given their first public showing.The litter are the offspring of two adults transported from Edinburgh Zoo last October. The pair named Yuri and Sasha have previously reared six cubs. About 500 are thought to remain in the wild and the park owners - the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland - said the species remains under threat. The cubs were born in May, but are only now being shown to the public. Amur tigers, also known as Siberian tigers, live

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/highlands_and_islands/8102453.stm



Oregon Zoo Shows Off Plans For New Elephant Area

The Oregon Zoo gave a tour of its elephant facilities Tuesday, to show its plans for a new enclosure. Kristian Foden-Vencil reports.Voters passed a $125 million bond measure for the zoo last fall. The money will be spent on everything from a new enclosure for polar bears to improved veterinary facilities. $30 million is earmarked to increase the elephant enclosure from three acres to six acres. Zoo deputy director, Mike Keele, says the bull elephants will also get a 200 acre

http://news.opb.org/article/5222-oregon-zoo-shows-plans-new-elephant-area/




Iowa zoo says 35-year-old monkey sets age record

The Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines says a 35-year-old snow monkey known as "Baldy" is the oldest female ever with a confirmed birth date. The monkey, officially a Japanese macaque, was born June 16, 1974, at the Texas Snow Monkey Sanctuary, then moved to the Minnesota Zoo. She came to the Blank Park Zoo in 1985. The zoo's animal curator, Jeff Dier, says snow monkeys usually live 20 to 25 years. They are threatened in their homeland due to deforestation and the loss of habitat Baldy remains healthy and an active member of the anim

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-ap-ia-oldiowamonkey,0,1562724.story



Riverbanks Zoo Takes Extra Precautions After Gorilla Escaped

Extra precautions were taken at Riverbanks Zoo, this weekend, after a gorilla briefly got out of his habitat, Friday, and into the public area of the park.Zoo staff inspected all mammal habitats before the park opened, Saturday, and removed any underbrush or landscaping that they thought were too close to an exhibit.Meanwhile, the gorillas remain in their barn while the outdoor habitat undergoes a thorough inspection.They should be allowed back into their yard, later this week…don’t worry though…the gorillas each have their own playroom in the 3,000 square-foot barn and are getting extra food until they can go back

http://www.wjbf.com/jbf/news/state_regional/article/riverbanks_zoo_takes_extra_precautions_after_gorilla_escaped/14433/



Geri Halliwell adopts white lion cubs - Singer sponsors animals at Paradise Wildlife Park

Geri Halliwell has adopted a pair of white lion cubs.The former Spice Girl saw the animals at Paradise Wildlife Park near her home in Hertfordshire.Geri goes to the park quite a lot and fell in love with them so she decided she must have them,’ a source tells the Sunday People.‘She will receive an adoption certificate

http://www.nowmagazine.co.uk/celebrity-news/368396/geri-halliwell-adopts-white-lion-cubs/1/




Could the orang-utan be our closest relative?

THESE days, we tend to accept without question that humans are "the third chimpanzee". The term, coined by author Jared Diamond, refers to the notion that our closest relatives are the two chimpanzee species - the common chimp and the bonobo. But could we actually be "the second orang" - more closely related to orang-utans than chimps?That is the controversial claim made this week by Jeffrey Schwartz of the University of Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania and John Grehan of the Buffalo Museum of Science in New York (Journal of Biogeography, DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2699.2009.02141.x, in press)The idea flies in the face of mainstream scientific opinion, not least a wealth of DNA evidence pointing to our close relationship to chimps. Schwartz and Grehan do not deny the similarity between human and chimp genomes, but argue that the DNA evidence is problematic and that traditional taxonomy unequivocally tells us that our closest living relatives are

http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg20227133.800-could-the-orangutan-be-our-closest-relative.html?full=true

An unfortunate Orangutan in Malabon Zoo. I will publish a hub on this collection in a few days. - Peter











Do feed the animals: Zoo promotes interaction

Five-year-old Josh Ghigo stared wide-eyed at the towering giraffe a few feet away. The giraffe batted her long eyelashes and stretched her neck over the railing as she zeroed in on the leaf of lettuce Josh held in his left hand. The boy put his arm straight out and winced as the giraffe bent down and slurped the lettuce from his flattened palm with her 18-inch, blue

http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/arizonaliving/articles/2009/06/18/20090618giraffe0618.html



Knife-wielding gorilla photos overblown: Calgary Zoo

The Calgary Zoo is dismissing photos taken by a visitor that appear to show a female Western Lowland gorilla holding a knife menacingly toward a troop mate.Some visitors were alarmed on Tuesday morning when Barika, the dominant female, picked up a knife that had been accidentally left by a zookeeper during his regular cleaning duties of the outdoor exhibit.Heike Scheffler took photos as she watched the brief situation unfold with her husband, Joe, as well as several students, teachers and parents.Barika picked up the knife by

http://www.cbc.ca/canada/calgary/story/2009/06/17/gorilla-knife.html




Panda love calls could help conservation efforts

When a female giant panda's thoughts briefly turn to love each year, her ears perk up. The solitary animals can discern the love calls of different suitors, new research suggests.Hear the bleat of a male panda looking for loveThis skill could help females, who are fertile only two or three days out of the year, decide which males to mate with, says Ben Charlton, a biologist at Zoo Atlanta, who led the new study. Gaining a better

http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn17314-panda-love-calls-could-help-conservation-efforts.html



Namibia Center Aims To Conserve Dying Cheetah Population

Volunteers at a conservation center in Namibia are working to protect endangered cheetahs, which are often killed by farmers because they are deemed threatening.Namibia is home to the largest population of the world’s fastest land animal. Volunteers at the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) are working to reverse recent downward population trends.Leigh Whelpton, a CCF volunteer, told AFP of three cheetah cubs that were brought to the center by a farmer who had killed their mother."The farmer who killed it, noticed movement in the stomach of the cheetah, cut it open and found three perfectly shaped cubs in the womb, alive," she said.The cubs now live at the center, but they will never be able to survive in the wild because

http://www.redorbit.com/news/science/1706330/namibia_center_aims_to_conserve_dying_cheetah_population/



First-ever International Day of Action For Elephants in Zoos is Saturday

In Defense of Animals and Animal Connection of TX are inviting the public to the First-Ever International Day of Action for Elephants In Zoos to be held at the Dallas Zoo Saturday, June 20, 2009 from 10:30 AM to noon (by the big by the giraffe statue.)Here's your chance to take action for elephants by attending a local rally as part of a bigger global event.The objective is to bring mammoth attention to the plight of elephants in zoos and

http://www.examiner.com/x-7641-Dallas-Animal-Rescue-Examiner~y2009m6d18-Firstever-International-Day-of-Action-For-Elephants-in-Zoos-is-Saturday



Prague Zoo Ranked as the 7th World’s Best Zoo

I hadn’t been to the Prague Zoo for a few years and didn’t remember it as anything special. It was badly damaged in the 2002 flood and when I was there a year or two later, there was lots of reconstruction and new construction going on. Lots of promise in the air, but a pretty bare place at the moment. When I recently revisited, I was surprised not only by how different the zoo looked and felt, but mainly by the modestly displayed sign listing the top world zoos selected by Forbes Traveler Magazine in November 2007. The Prague Zoo was highlighted at line 7.What an unbelievable achievement for the small, even intimate ‘garden’ that was hit so hard by disaster only seven

http://blog.myczechrepublic.com/2009/06/18/prague-zoo-ranked-as-the-7th-worlds-best-zoo/



Elephant-size loopholes sustain Thai ivory trade

Legal loopholes and insufficient law enforcement mean that Thailand continues to harbour the largest illegal ivory market in Asia, says a new report from the wildlife trade monitoring network TRAFFIC.The report also raises concerns that legal provisions governing trade in domesticated elephants are providing cover for illegal trade in wild-caught, highly-endangered Asian elephants from both Thailand and neighbouring Myanmar.TRAFFIC’s survey documented over 26,000 worked ivory products for sale in local markets, with many more retail outlets dealing in ivory products than were observed during market surveys carried out

http://www.panda.org/wwf_news/news/?uNewsID=167622




Public get behind Zion Lion park

Less than a month ago the controversial and cash strapped Zion Wildlife Park seemed to have been dealt a final knockout blow after the fatal mauling of a keeper.It is fair to say the in-fighting at Zion had not endeared it the local community.But now with the future of the park in crisism, the nearby township of Kamo is rallying to try and keep the park open and the lions fed.Michael Holland with a community

http://tvnz.co.nz/close-up/public-get-behind-zion-lion-park-2790971



Zoo might cut hours, staff to bridge deficit

The San Francisco Zoo is considering layoffs and reducing park hours to try to make up a $2.2 million revenue shortfall.The fatal tiger mauling of a 17-year-old on Christmas Day 2007 has had a ripple effect that caused donors to pull back and visitors to stay home, and led the zoo to spend on safety upgrades. It's a triple whammy in one of the worst recessions on record.The zoo is projecting a $17 million

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/06/19/MN3018AGG9.DTL



Thai Navy Launches Sea Turtle Conservation Program

In Thailand...The navy is protecting thousands of baby sea turtles from being killed by humans before they can swim out to sea.When the sun sets at Khram Island, dozens of mature green sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs.The isolated island, 30 kilometers from the busy tourist beach town of Pattaya, is the largest nesting site of sea turtles in the Gulf of Thailand.A green turtle has to mate with at least five partners before nesting.But once that happens a turtle can carry up to 170 eggs throughout the year, always returning to the island

http://english.ntdtv.com/ntdtv_en/ns_asia/2009-06-19/251806927324.html



Binder Park Zoo named one of America's best zoos

Michigan's very own Binder Park Zoo was recently recognized as being “One of America's Best Zoos” in a book titled America's Best Zoos by authors Allen W. Nyhuis and Jon Wassner. The book features 60 of America's top zoos. Binder Park Zoo was selected based on their “diverse animal collection, excellent exhibits, special programs for visitors, and knowledgeable and committed staff.” In addition to this recognition Binder Park Zoo's award winning exhibit Wild Africa was credited as one of the top 25 exhibits in the nation! Come meet author Jon Wassner at the Zoo on

http://www.battlecreekenquirer.com/article/20090619/NEIGHBORHOODS03/906190328/Binder+Park+Zoo+named+one+of+America+s+best+zoos



Calgary Zoo defends itself after gorilla finds knife in enclosure

We love gorillas from afar but certainly wouldn't want to run into one in a dark alley. How much more terrifying would it be, then, to encounter a gorilla wielding a knife?It sounds crazy, but just such an event happened this week at the Calgary Zooin the Canadian province of Alberta. A female western lowland gorilla named Barika apparently found a paring knife that had been left in the enclosure by a keeper who'd been cutting hoses and ropes. "He dropped it," zoo spokesperson Laurie Herron told the Calgary Herald. "One of the other keepers or a volunteer came and told him that the gorillas

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/unleashed/2009/06/calgary-zoo-defends-itself-after-gorilla-finds-knife-in-enclosure.html



Details unveiled for zoo makeover

A new Arctic exhibit, primate enclosure and horse barn will join a new polar bear enclosure as part of the redevelopment of Assiniboine Park Zoo.The Assiniboine Park Conservancy announced a long-term zoo revitalization plan that will include new exhibits and enclosures as well as a new main entrance along Corydon AvenueThe centrepiece of the new zoo will be the International Polar Bear Conservation Centre, which will encompass both an exhibit and and environmental education centre.The centre plans to coordinate a rescue program for orphaned bears, which may include temporary placement in Winnipeg.Right now, Assiniboine Park Zoo can not house polar bears because its existing enclosure does not meet Manitoba Conservation

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/Details-unveiled-for--48611302.html



Wildlife Rescue in Cambodia (Video)
http://wa.convio.net/site/PageServer?pagename=SupportWildlifeRescueinCambodia



Where animal traders run wild

Kuwait carried out its first animal confiscation last month, seven years after signing up to an international convention to clamp down on the trade in endangered species, a move hailed by conservationists as an important step towards stemming a growing tide of animals trafficked into the Gulf state. The animal, a Eurasian brown bear, was seized from a home in Kabed, on the outskirts of Kuwait City, by officials from the government’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the police after a tip-off from K’s Path (the Kuwait Society for the Protection of Animals and their Habitat). K’s Path, a non-governmental organisation, had mounted an “undercover investigation” to monitor and photograph the bear after receiving calls from the public that the animal was on sale for 2,000 Kuwaiti dinar (Dh25,500), said John Peaveler, the managing director of K’s Path. The bear was chained by the neck to the inside of a tiny, sun-exposed cage and fed on rice and meagre amounts of water, their website said.The society took their

http://www.thenational.ae/article/20090617/FOREIGN/706179980/-1/NEWS



Johor, Pahang Transit To Smuggle Exotic Animals

Unscrupulous syndicates are using Johor and Pahang as transit to smuggle exotic animals to a neighbouring country for lucrative gains.In revealing the modus operandi of the syndicates, Wildlife and National Parks Department's deputy director of laws and enforcement Celescoriano Razond said they would store the exotic animals in several isolated areas in the two states before smuggling them to a neighbouring country via land or water.He said this in a press conference at the department's district office here Friday.While Razond refused to reveal the intended

http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v5/newsgeneral.php?id=419254



Group demonstrates against treatment of elephants at Toronto Zoo

A week after an elephant died at the Toronto Zoo, a small group of people stood outside the zoo on Saturday demonstrating against what they said was a mammoth problem.About half a dozen people held signs reading "elephants suffer in zoos" and handed out pamphlets to people driving into the facility as they denounced the treatment of animals in captivity.Security prevented protesters from entering the grounds."Elephants are dying prematurely in zoos. They're only living to about half of the age they should," said Jamie Rivet from In Defence of Animals.He said the death of an elephant at the zoo last week would not have happened if the animal lived in the wild.Tessa, a 40-year-old elephant, died after being shoved by a dominant member of her group looking to steal food."Elephants that are kept in zoo enclosures can become abnormally aggressive or hostile," said Rivet, who added elephants also suffer from

http://www.thestar.com/article/654326



Frogs species discovered living in elephant dung

Three different species of frogs have been discovered living in the dung of the Asian elephant in southeastern Sri Lanka. The discovery—the first time anyone has recorded frogs living in elephant droppings—has widespread conservation implications both for frogs and Asian elephants, which are in decline. "I found the frogs fortuitously during a field study about seed dispersal by elephants," Ahimsa Campos-Arceiz, a research fellow from the National University of Singapore, told Monagaby.com. "I thought it was an interesting phenomenon and commented it with

http://news.mongabay.com/2009/0610-hance_elephantdung.html



More than a zoo

When an American journalist asked him “what attracts you personally to the desert?”, TE Lawrence responded: “it’s clean”. Now, the Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort, formerly known as the Al Ain Zoo, is planning to show visitors that there’s much more to enjoy in the desert.This project is not about building a traditional zoo or resort. Rather, it seeks to transform the idea of what a zoo or resort can be. The 900 hectare wildlife park plans to be the only place in the world where visitors can experience life in various deserts around the world, such as the Kalahari or the Sahara. It’s an ambitious attempt that will put Al Ain on the map for the “hottest” zoo in the world. But the vision goes beyond that. By breeding

http://www.thenational.ae/article/20090621/OPINION/706209898/1006/rss




Visitors flock to see over 135 new aquatic species added to Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is offering fascinating new viewing experiences for visitors with numerous species added on to enhance the diversity of aquatic animals.From over 220 diverse species, visitors can gaze at over 70 species in the main aquarium tank, including Sand Tiger Sharks, Rays and Giant Groupers. There are now over 150 species at the Underwater Zoo such as Caiman Crocodiles, Leafy Seadragons, Humboldt Penguins, Piranhas, Otters, Harbour Seals, Water Rats, Terrapins and

http://www.ameinfo.com/201068.html



Unnatural Habitats: Rethinking the Modern Zoo

http://www.fastcompany.com/multimedia/slideshows/content/rethinking-zoo.html?page=1



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ZOO BIOLOGY

The Zoo Biology Group is concerned with all disciplines involved inthe running of a Zoological Garden. Captive breeding, husbandry,cage design and construction, diets, enrichment, man management,record keeping, etc etc

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/zoo-biology



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American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc

Animal Keepers' Forum



AKF Table of Contents - June 2009




  • About the Cover/Information for Contributors

  • Scoops & Scuttlebutt

  • From the Executive Director

  • Coming Events

  • ICZ/AAZK Conference 2009 - Update/Info

  • AAZK Announces New Members

  • Care and Management of Geriatric Animals in Zoos (order info)

  • Bowling for Rhinos Reminders for 2009

  • Training Tales (Operant Conditioning 0.3 Ostrich at the N.C. Zoo)

  • New Database to Help Zoos Manage, Find Animals

  • Introduction of a Young Hand-reared Japanese Macaque in a Group

  • The Formation of a Lion Pride at The San Diego Zoo’s Wild Animal Park

  • Book Reviews (Standard and Common Current Scientific Names for N.A. Amphibians, Turtles, Reptiles and Crocodilians, 6th edition; and Frogs and Toads of North America)

  • Enrichment Options (Enriching the Days of Our Elephants)

  • 7th Annual Turtle Survival Alliance Symposium

  • Feeling Boxed In? You’re Not Alone

  • Conservation/Legislative Update




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Forbes Traveler Magazine’s list of The World’s Best Zoos:

1. Animal Kingdom, Orlando
2. Basel Zoo, Switzerland
3. Beauval Zoo, France
4. Berlin Zoological Garden, Germany
5. Bronx Zoo, New York
6. Chester Zoo, U.K.
7. Prague Zoological Garden, Czech Republic
8. National Zoological Gardens of South Africa
9. San Diego Zoo, California
10. Schönbrunner Zoo, Austria
11. Singapore Zoo
12. Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Washington DC
13. Taronga and Western Plains Zoo, Sydney
14. Toronto Zoo
15. Ueno Zoological Gardens, Tokyo, Japan

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The Tusker Times - June 2009
http://www.elefantasia.org/IMG/pdf/TuskerTimes_EN_jun09.pdf

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Genetically Important Breeding SuccessSuccessful hatching of three Spix’s Macaws at AWWP, Qatar
http://awwp.alwabra.com/index.php/content/view/571/30/

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Partners in Conservation A Memorandum of Understanding was officially signed between Al Wabra Wildlife Preservation (AWWP) and Conservation International (CI) in February 2009. http://awwp.alwabra.com/index.php/content/view/551/30/

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ZOOS' PRINT

The July 2009 issue of ZOOS' PRINT [Volume XXIV, Number 7] is published and the online version is available free on the web at:

ZOOS' PRINT MAGAZINE http://www.zoosprint.org/showMagazine.asp

List of Individual Articles

Cover - including contents, publication information and other cover material

Complete Magazine, Pp. 1-28

All Zoos contributing to Conservation

IUCN Technical Guidelines on the Management of Ex Situ Populations for Conservation, Approved at the 14th Meeting of the Programme Committee of Council, Gland Switzerland, 10 Dec 2002

Article about IUCN SSC ... Technical Guidelines on the Management of Ex Situ Populations for
Conservation, Mike Maunder and Onnie Byers, (2004), Oryx 38: 342-346.

Internal communication and its magical effect

Challenging, interesting, vibrant, fulfilling . . . my three years in Kanpur Zoo

Loss of biodiversity in the face of global warming

Some Short Notes on various species

Education Reports

Zoo Lex - Zoo Zürich Himalayas Exhibit for Siberian Tigers

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Announcing the ASZK Des Spittall Scholarship for Keeper Research

Named in honour of the late Des Spittall, a life member of ASZK, the ASZK committee has launched the Des Spittall Scholarship for keeper research. This is open to people who have been a financial member of ASZK for 12 months or more. This is an annual scholarship up to the value of $2,000. Applications close 31st October 2009
Please forward ‘Des Spittall Scholarship for Keeper Research’ application to ASZK President no later than 31st of October each year at email eo@aszk.org.au

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For notification of Zoo related Meetings, Conferences, Courses and Symposia go to: http://zoosymposia.blogspot.com/

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ZooNews Digest is an independent publication, not allied or attachedto any zoological collection. Many thanks.

Kind Regards,

Wishing you a wonderful week,

Peter Dickinson

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