ANIMAL KEEPERS’ FORUM . 3601 S.W. 29th St., Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614-2054 Phone: (785) 273-9149 FAX (785) 273-1980 January 2009 Vol. 36, No. 1 AKF Managing Editor: Susan D. Chan • Associate Editors: Becky Richendollar, North Carolina Zoo • Mark de Denus, Winnipeg, MB • Enrichment Options Column Coordinator: Rachel Daneault, Disney’s Animal Kingdom • Legislative/Conservation Outlook Column Co-Coordinators: Becky Richendollar, North Carolina Zoo and Greg McKinney, Philadelphia, PA • Reactions Column Coordinator: William K. Baker, Jr, Abilene Zoo, Abilene, TX • ATC Column Co-Cordinators: Angela Binney, Disney’s Animal Kingdom; Kim Kezer, Zoo New England; Jay Pratte, Zoo Atlanta • Conservation Station Co-Coordinators: Penny Jolly, Greater Orlando AAZK Chapter and Amanda Kamradt, Greater Houston Chapter of AAZK • Proofreader: Barbara Manspeaker, AAZK Administrative Office. Animal Keepers’ Forum is published monthly by the American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc., 3601 S.W. 29th Street, Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614-2054. Ten dollars of each membership fee goes toward the annual publication costs of Animal Keepers’ Forum . Postage paid at Topeka, KS. AAZK Executive Director: Ed Hansen, AAZK, Inc., Topeka KS also serves as AAZK Liaison to the American Zoo & Aquarium Association (AZA) AAZK Administrative Secretary: Barbara Manspeaker, AAZK, Inc., Topeka, KS BOARD OF DIRECTORS Shane Good, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland, OH 44109 President Denise Wagner, The Phoenix Zoo, Phoenix, AZ 85008 Vice President Jacque Blessington, Kansas City Zoo, Kansas City, MO 64132-4200 Tammy Root, Indianapolis Zoo, Indianapolis, IN 46222 Bob Cisneros, San Diego Zoo, San Diego, CA 92112-0551 COMMITTEES/COORDINATORS By-laws Chair - Gisela A. Wiggins, North Carolina Zoo Grants Committee Chair - Shelly Roach, Columbus Zoo Behavioral Husbandry Committee Chair - Deana Waltz, Tracy Aviary Annual Conferences Coordinator - Ed Hansen, AAZK, Inc. ICZ Coordinators Shane Good, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and Norah Famham, Woodland Park Zoo Bowling for Rhinos Coordinator - Patty Pearthree, Cary, NC MEMBERSHIP SERVICES APT. EDT and ATP Forms AAZK Administrative Offices/Topeka AAZK Website - Liaison to Webmaster Denise Wagner, The Phoenix Zoo Ethics Chair - Denise Wagner, The Phoenix Zoo Awards Chair - Janet McCoy, The Oregon Zoo vacant Professional Development Melaina Wallace, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Conservation Committee Co-Chairs Amanda Kamradt, Greater Houston Chapter and Penny Jolly, Greater Orlando Chapter AAZK Historian Mark Levin, Plymouth Meeting, PA AAZK Publications/Logo Products AAZK Administrative Offices/Topeka printed on Recycled Paper Table of Contents About the Cover/Information for Contributors... 2 Scoops & Scuttlebutt 3 - 4 In Memorium - Dennis Melvin.... 5 From the President..... 6 -7 Call for Papers for Dedicated Issue on Geriatric Zoo Animals 8 Coming Events 10 AAZK Announces New Members 11 International Enrichment Conference 11 Reactions Column {International Travel Precautions) 12 - 14 ICZN Amendment Proposed to Permit Electronic Publication...... 14 A Nutritionally Supported Herd-Raised Male Sable Antelope at Disney’s Animal Kingdom 15 - 21 Bowling for Rhinos Update and 2009 BFR Event Registration Form 22 - 23 Training Tales {Training Tips: Finding Your Tempo) 24 - 25 Behavioral Husbandry Committee Solicits Training Tales Submissions 26 Investigating Observational Learning in a Brown Pelican 27 - 30 Conservation Station {Tips for Going ‘Green ’) 31-32 ICZ/AAZK 2009 Conference Update: How’s the Weather in Seattle? 32 Enrichment Options {Another Lee Houts Excellence in Enrichment Award Winner) 33 - 35 Conservation/Legislative Update .36 - 41 2008 Animal Keepers’ Forum Index 42 - 48 35th Anniversary - 1974-2009 MISSION STATEMENT (Revised November 2008) American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. The mission of the American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. is to advance excellence in the zookeeping profession, foster effective communcation beneficial to animal care, support deserving conservation projects, and promote the preservation of our natural resources and animal life. This month ’s cover features a drawing of a Patas monkey (Erythrocebus patas) name Bhuti drawn by Camille Dorian, a Caretaker at Monkey Zoo in San Diego, CA. In the wild Patas Monkeys live in bands made up of a single male and up to a dozen females. However, the band is run by the females with the male around for reproduction and defending the females and their young from predators. They are native to savannah habitats in Senegal and Kenya. They feed primarily on plants, fruits, grains and mushrooms but will also feed on insects and grubs when available. Females have a 30-day reproductive cycle and births take place at any time during the year with usually a single infant being born. The offspring remains with the mother until they become independent. While this species is terrestrial, they do sleep in trees to avoid predators during the nightime hours. Bhuti is shown in this portrait with a pomegranate in hand. Camille writes that Bhuti is playful and active, often enjoying wrestling with an older spider monkey named Samantha. All of the monkeys at Monkey Zoo are great dry chow eaters, avid foragers and enjoy organic produce and an item known as YummOrganic Monkey Treat that is made from organic egg whites, five grains, eight fruits and vegetables and psyllium seed husk fiber. Thanks, Camille! Articles sent to Animal Keepers ’Forum will be reviewed by the editorial staff for publication. Articles of a research or technical nature will be submitted to one or more of the zoo professionals who serve as referees for AKF . No commitment is made to the author, but an effort will be made to publish articles as soon as possible. Lengthy articles may be separated into monthly installments at the discretion of the editor. The editor reserves the right to edit material without consultation unless approval is requested in writing by the author. Materials submitted will not be returned unless accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed, appropriately-sized envelope. Telephone, fax or email contributions of late-breaking news or last-minute insertions are accepted as space allows. Phone 785-273-9149; FAX (785) 273-1980; email is akfeditor@zk.kscoxmail.com< If you have questions about submission guidelines, please contact the Editor. Deadline for each regular issue is the 10th of the preceding month. Dedicated issues may have separate deadline dates and will be noted by the editor. Articles printed do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the AKF staff or the American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. Publication does not indicate endorsement by the Association. Items in this publication may be reprinted providing credit to this publication is given and a copy of the reprinted material is forwarded to the editor. If an article is shown to be separately copyrighted by the author(s), then permission must be sought from the author(s). Reprints of material appearing in this journal may be ordered from the editor. Regular back issues are available for $4.00 each. Special issues may cost more. E-Mail Addresses: You may reach Barbara Manspeaker at AAZK Administrative Offices at: aazkoffice@zk.kscoxmaiLcom< You may reach Susan Chan and Animal Keepers ’Forum at: akfeditor@zk.kscoxmail.com< Mailing Address: AAZK, Inc., 3601 SW 29th St., Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614-2054 AAZK website Address: www.aazk.org BFR Website: http://aazkbfr.org 2 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 Scoops & Scuttlebutt It’s Cha pte r R echar tc r Time All AAZK Chapters are reminded that the rechartering of all Chapters begins this month. Rechartering packet information has been sent electronically via email to the email address each Chapter has provided to the Administrative Office in 2008. These emails were sent the first week in January. NOTE: If your Chapter has changed its email contact address since you completed your 2008 recharter forms, you need to notify Barbara Manspeaker immediately (aazkoffice@zk.kscoxmail.com) so that your recharter materials are properly received. Recharter Packets for 2009 are due back at Administrative Offices by 15 February 2009 (with late fees applicable after 1 March 2009). If you do not receive your recharter materials by mid- January, you need to contact Barbara at the email address above or by calling 785-273-9149. If you have questions about filling out the required information, give Barbara a call and she will be glad to help you out. Receipt of rechartering information from every AAZK Chapter is required by the Internal Revenue Service in order to protect AAZK’s 501 (c)(3) nonprofit status. Your prompt attention in this matter is greatly appreciated. Election 2009 Reminder All Professional members are reminded that nominations for the Board of Directors of the Association are due at Administrative Office by 28 February 2009. Board members Denise Wagner, Tammy Root and Jacque Blessington will be stepping down having completed their respective terms on the Board. Nomination/Nominator downloadable forms, as well as criteria for nominations, may be found in the Member’s Only section of the AAZK website ( www.aazk.org ). Completed forms must be mailed by the deadline to AAZK Administrative Office, 3601 SW 29th St., Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614-2054. The 2009 election itself is being handled electronically from the Member’s Only section of the website. PLEASE NOTE: You will only be able to vote if your AAZK Professional membership is current and if you have registered as a user on the Member’s Only section of the website. If you have not registered, please do so no later than 15 April! The timeline for the 2009 election is as follows: • 28 February - Nomination Forms due at AAZK Administrative Office • 1 April - Viewing of Candidate profiles opens in the Member’s Only section • 15 April - 1 June - Professional Member Electronic Voting Period • Results of the election will be published soon after the 10 June verification of ballots and notification of results to the candidates. From th e E dito r Please be aware you are not seeing a reprint mistake with this issue of AKF. The article by Melania Wallace entitled “A Nutritionally Supported, Herd-raised Male Sable Antelope at Disney’s Animal Kingdom” (pages 15-21) was originally published in the November 2008 issue oiAKF, but due to a formatting error, a large section of text was truncated by a graphic. In fairness to the author, we are publishing the article in its entirety in this issue of the Forum. Our apologies to Melania. It is with regret that I announce the resignation of Kayla Grams as Associate Editor for AKF. Kayla has served as an Associate Editor since September of 1991 and has been an invaluable resource to me in so many ways, not the least of which has been in her production of the annual AKF Index that has appeared in each January issue giving readers a quick reference to what had been published in the previous year. Kayla has also assisted in the selection of the AKF Excellence in Journalism Animal Keepers ’Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 3 awards that are presented at the National Conference each year. Kayla, along with former Associate Editor Gretchen Ziegler, were the initiators of the Enrichment Options column. Kayla’s dedication to AAZK and to the production of the Forum have been much appreciated and I will miss working with her. We wish her every success in all her future endeavors. Thanks for everything, Kayla. Taking on the position of Associate Editor will be Becky Richendollar, a keeper at the North Carolina Zoo and co-editor of the Conservation/Legislative column each month. We look forward to working with Becky as she learns the ins and outs of .TKF production. Brigette Thompson, also of the North Carolina Zoo, has agreed to take on the job of indexing future AKF’s. We greatly appreciate her assistance with this important task. Notice on Chapter News Submissions All Chapter Liaisons please note that Chapter News items are no longer published in the Forum but should be sent to Mark de Denus (m.dedenus@shaw.ca) for inclusion in INSIGHT that is sent out electronically to all active Chapters, Please put “Chapter News” in the subject line when sending items to Mark. You may also send photos or logos as jpg file attachments. New I n s ti tut i oiial Me m ber-Rate Initiated Beginning 1 January 2009, Institutional Memberships in AAZK will be $ 1 50.00 per year. Institutional Members need to be approved by the AAZK Board of Directors. Institutional Members receive a plaque for display, the moni\Ay Animal Keepers 'Forum, a hyperlink from the AAZK website, member rates for conferences and products, and are able to post job listings on the AAZK website for free. Institutional Membership not only offers these benefits, but also shows the institution’s support for their zoo keeper staff. If your zoo or aquarium is not currently an Institutional Member of AAZK, you might like to encourage them to join. Time to Nominate Your Peers for AAZK Awards Nominations are now being accepted for 2009 for the various awards given out by AAZK, Inc. each year at the National Conference. Awards are submitted for consideration to the AAZK Awards Committeee, Chaired by Janet McCoy from the Oregon Zoo. Information for these awards, including criteria for nomination and the required forms for submitting a nomination are available on the AAZK website ( www.aazk.org ). You will need to click on “Committees” from the menu at the left of the home page and then click on “Awards Committee”. This will take you to the page containing information on the various awards and the nomination process. Please be aware that completed nomination forms must be returned to: Janet McCoy, AAZK Awards Committee, Oregon Zoo, 4001 S.W. Canyon Rd., Portland, OR 97221 by 1 May 2009 in order to be considered for this award cycle. The AAZK Awards include: • Lifetime Achievement Award • Lee Houts Excellence in Enrichment Award • Certificate of Merit for Zoo Keeper Education • Certificate of Excellence in Exhibit Design Renovation • Mazuri® Animal Nutrition Award • Jean M. Hromadka AAZK Excellence in Animal Care Award • The Lutz Ruhe Meritorious Achievement - AAZK Professional of the Year Award • The AAZK Chapter of the Year Award 4 Animal Keepers 'Forum, Vol. 36, No. I In Memorium Dennis W. Melvin 9 - 10-38 ~ 12 - 4-08 Dennis W. Melvin, one of the original seven Founders of AAZK, Inc. has died at his home in Lakeside, CA. His death was unexpected. He was bom on September 10, 1938, in Mankato, MN and served in the U.S. Navy as a Yeoman on the USS Jason serving in Kobi, Japan. After his military service, Dennis joined the San Diego Zoo in 1959 where he held several positions. One of his first assignments was to the train the seals and host the penniped show at Wegeforth Bowl stadium. He had many interesting stories about his seals and their training experiences. He worked in the Zoo’s Hospital for ten years and then worked as a zoo keeper on Deer Mesa for the remainder of this 30- year career at San Diego. He retired from the Zoo in December 1989. One of his greatest accomplishments was recognizing the need for zoo keepers across America to have their own professional organization. Dennis, along with Conrad Grayson, Walter Bromley, Carl Pyle, Ken Willingham, Richard Sweeney and Gerald “Red” Thomas organized the first national organization for zoo keepers in America - the American Association of Zoo Keepers. Dennis served as its first secretary and sent letters to zoos across the U.S. announcing the formation of the group. According to Art Goodrich, former long-term San Diego Zoo Keeper, Dennis was “a very quiet but dedicated man, and a good fit for the newly growing AAZK”. He was active in the Lakeside Presbyterian Community Church where he served as an usher once a month. He and his first wife, Lydia, had two sons, Denny Melvin of Lehi, Utah and Cary A. Melvin of West Valley, UT who survive. He married Carol Mueller Melvin on September 1, 1977, he was the primary caregiver for Carol, who survives to cherish his memory. They resided in Lakeside where he enjoyed gardening, growing orchids, working with ceramics, and keeping up with the Padres. Dennis is also survived by his mother, Viola Melvin; brother, Donald and his wife Janet and their three children; step-daughter, Cindy Nash and husband, John; four grandchildren and four step-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Melvin. Dennis will be missed. Dennis (left) with Gerald “Red” Thomas at the San Diego Zoo’s annual “20- Year Dinner” held this past August. (Photo by Art Goodrich) Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 5 pom e PGSiaen This issue of the Animal Keepers ’Forum is the first of the New Year. I thought it would be appropriate at this time to highlight some of the new things happening at AAZK, Inc. AAZK - ICZ Conference, Seattle, September 24-29, 2009 For the very first time, the AAZK and ICZ will host a joint conference, celebrating the 36*'’ Annual Conference of AAZK, and the 3*** International Congress on Zookeeping. The conference has the potential to bring together zookeepers from over 30 countries to share knowledge, expertise, and ideas. Keepers in the USA and throughout the world share a common bond, but can also have different philosophies, cultures, and challenges related to their profession. Come join old friends and meet new colleagues from around the world. Now is the time to start planning to attend the conference. Set aside that vacation time or work leave, ask your supervisor about funding, and maybe even set aside some time to take advantage of the great trips being planned for before and after the conference in the Pacific Northwest. For more information, go to www.pugetsoundaa7k.org < B Q ^ r 4o-f-J) ir _ectQ r s.EIe(C.tlQns on www .a azk. Qrg For the very first time, the election will take place from the AAZK website. This not only should make the process easier, but saves the Association time and money. There are three Board positions open this year. There has never been a better time to run for the AAZK Board of Directors, with many exciting things happening throughout the Association. If you ever wanted to make your mark on the zookeeping profession, get actively involved in conservation, help direct this important Association, and develop your managerial skills, find someone to nominate you and throw your khaki keeper’s hat in the ring. SpeAki.ng_ Qf the we b s i te It seems every week, Denise Wagner, our Board Oversight of www.aazk.org is adding something new to the website. Here’s a sample: • Husbandry Guideli nes ava ilable o n www.aazk .org The Australasian Society of Zookeeping has graciously allowed AAZK to link to their webpage featuring countless Animal Husbandry Manuals, Nutrition Guidelines, plus Training and Enrichment information. These are tremendous resources now available to all AAZK members from the Members’ Only section of the website. Whether you are planning a new exhibit, have a new species in your area, need ideas to encourage breeding, hand rearing a neonate, or just wondering “What the heck should we be feeding this thing?”, you can probably find the information here. • Speaking of the Members’ Only section of www.aazk.org If you haven’t been to the Members’ Only section, it’s easy to sign up and offers countless resources to you free of charge! These include but are not limited to: INSIGHT electronic Newsletter, ICZ quarterly newsletter, conference proceedings. Board of Director nomination forms, and downloadable PDFs like the Zoonotic Disease Handbook. • Discus sio n B o a rds-o n www. aa zk .org Admittedly, I’m not one who usually posts on website discussion boards, but I know the people who use the one on www.aazk.org consider it a valuable resource. Think of it as some sort of virtual zookeepers’ hospitality suite. If it relates to zookeepers, you can find some discussion on it here. A sample of recent discussions include the pros and cons of acquiring animals from non- accredited institutions, dealing with nuisance birds, the challenges 6 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 AMERICAN ASSOCIATION of ZOO KEEPERS facing sea lions and the salmon industry, fundraising ideas for AAZK Chapters, and second jobs that underpaid zookeepers can do for some extra scratch. So if you want to join the discussions, just place a cozy chair in front of your computer, pop the top on your favorite beverage, and settle in for some keeper chat. A AZK C ommit te e s Not to be outdone, AAZK Committees have been hard at work too. The Professional Development Committee has a new chairperson, Melaina Wallace (Disney’s Animal Kingdom), and is working on new courses and workshops for animal care professionals. They will keep your minds sharp and your careers bright, so check out their new offerings at this year’s AAZK - ICZ Conference. Looking for a gift ideas for your favorite relief keeper? Check out the Marketing Committee’s new products at www.aazk.org . The Conservation Committee has a new column in the AKF. In November’s Conservation Station they had some cool ideas for Green gift giving. In case you’re wondering. I’m a size large. Of course, your Board of Directors has been hard at work too. They have some exciting things in the works, but I’ve been sworn to secrecy. Keep checking AKF, Insight, and www.aazk.org for new announcements. Until next time, have a great New Year, be safe, and may all of your personal and professional endeavors be successful, rewarding, and fun. Shane Good, AAZK President Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 1 t Call for Papers for Dedicated Issue of AKF N Many zoological institutions in the U.S. and elsewhere are finding specimens within their collections are aging. In April of 2009 we are hoping to produce a dedicated issue of Animal Keepers’ Forum dedicated to the challenges of dealing with geriatric exotic animals in captive zoo settings. We are seeking articles on what challenges have been faced (diet, housing, vet care, enrichment, etc.) and how they have been met. We would like to see papers discussing how your facility has dealt with the care and management of an animal in the last years of its life. We know there have got to be lots of good examples out there and we would hope that you might choose to share them through the pages of this dedicated issue. Papers should be submitted electronically in MS Word only to akfeditor@zk.kscoxmail.com < Please put Geriatric Special Issue in your subject line. Papers should be no more than 10 pages in length. Any charts and/or graphs should be submitted as separate jpg or tif files along with the manuscript. We would encourage photos of your animals to include and these should also be submitted electronically as either jpg or tif files. If you cannot submit your materials electronically, you may send them on a disk or CD to: Dedicated Issue, AAZK, Inc. 3601 SW 29th St., Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614-2054. If you cannot submit photos electronically, you may also send 3x5 inch prints. Be sure to indicate proper photo credit. You should also include your complete contact information including address, email and a daytime phone number where you may be reached if we have questions concerning your submission. Deadline for receipt of articles for consideration is 10 February 2009 . Are You IMoving? Help Save AAZK Some $$$! Make sure to notify AAZK of your change of address. Not only do you not want to miss a single AKF issue, but it costs AAZK about a $1.00 for every AKF that is returned by the Post Office as undeliverable! This is money that could be better spent on AAZK’s projects and programs. So, PLEASE take the time to notify us when you relocate. Call: 785-273-9149 or you can email change of address information to: aazkoffice@zk.kscoxmail.com< Please put “Address Change” in the subject line. You may also send in a change of address from the AAZK website (www.aazk.org) See the Reminder Bar on the right side of the Homepage. 8 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 36, No. 1 eilEfS A\§ 0t¥iRSE AS fMiE AMlMiAL tCIMSOW Working in partnership with zoos and aquariums, MAZURI* PhD nutritionists develop industry leading products specifically for each species. From aardvarks to zebras, we work hard to give ■is your animals the most of what they need. For more information on MAZtIRI* products-including nutritional analyses and research findings-visit www.mazuri.com or call 1-800-227-8941 for the location of your nearest dealer. Because when it comes to great nutrition, we’re committed to the health and longevity of every animal. NIa ri. The Eroric Animal Feedii^ Resource www.mazuri.com Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 9 Coming Events Post Your Coming Events Here email to: akfeditor@zk.kscoxmail.com Zoos and Aquariums Committing to Conservation - January 23-26, 2009. Hosted by the Houston Zoo, Houston, TX. ZACC is a bi-annual event that promotes the role of zoos and aquariums in supporting conservation activities worldwide, both at their institutions and in the field. The ‘09 conference will have participants from over 20 countries and 60 presentations are currently included in the Program Draft now available as a pdf download from their website. For info contact: http:// www.houston7.oo.org/7acc < For questions you may call 713- 533-6745/6836 or email conservation@houstonzoo.org Bird Conservation through Education: A National Gathering - February 22-26, 2009 in Jekyll Island, GA. Hosted by The Council for Environmental Education (CEE), Flying WILD, and the Bird Education Network (BEN). Jekyll Island is home to a staggering number of bird species year round. The island is part of the Colonial Coast Birding Trail and is a designated Important Bird Area (IBA). It’s a birder’s paradise and the perfect location for a winter conference! Join us for an exciting week of bird education! For more information visit http://www.birdeducation.org/ jekyllisland.htm or call the Council for Environmental Education at 713-520-1936. International Association of Avian Trainers and Educators 17th Annual Conference - February 24-28, 2009 hosted by the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens. “09 in Nati’’ will feature papers, posters, site visits, roundtables, vendors and workshops. Topics include avian behavior, training, husbandry, conservation, strides in veterinary care, as well as show presentation, production and educational content. For further info please visit www.iaate.org or contact Eddie Annal at ed.annal@cincinnatizoo.org< International Cassowary Summit - April 1-4, 2009 in Cairns, Queensland, Australia. The Australian Rainforest Foundation (ARF) invites you to the inagural International Cassowary Summit held in the heart of the World Heritage listed West Tropics in tropical northern Queensland. The conference is focused on bringing together scientists, researchers, zoo curators, natural resource management and environmental groups to formalize how we must act and in what timeframe to ensure the survival of this keystone rainforest species. Workshops, plenary sessions and field trips will address a Recovery Plan for the cassowary, the current state of research, captive breeding, habitat analysis and threats, and potential wild releases. For more info email: info@.arfnet.au < 2009 Animal Beh av ior Management Alliance. (ABMA) Conference - April 26 - May 1, 2009 in Providence- Warwick, RI at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. The theme is “Bridging the Gap” - bringing together trainers, handlers, and keepers of animals, irrespective of species to share information and address topics to help develop a comprehensive behavior management program. Does your behavior management program need a little spicing up? Join us to learn new techniques on how to connect with the animals in your care; including interactive training and enrichment workshops; and the importance of evaluating and documenting your behavior management program. All conference details, including the 1st Call for Papers, are available at www.theabma.org < Send inquiries to Penny Krebs at pennkrebs@.cox.net or to Jen Hennessy at jhennessy@rwpzoo.org < Prosimian Husbandry Workshop - April 30- May 2, 2009. Hosted by the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. The workshop will emphasize group discussion of captive prosimian husbandry and management issues. Look for registration, lodging, and workshop information at the workshop web-page, www. clemetZQQ.CQm/ prQsimian wQ rkshQp < 2009 Rhino Keepe r Wo rkshop - May 17-21, 2009 at Busch Gardens, Tampa, FL. Please watch website www.rhinokeepersassociation.org for updates regarding the workshop. Any inquiries may be directed to: intemationalrhinokeepersassociation@gmail.com International Conference on Diseases of Zoo a n d W ild Animals 2009 - May 20-24, 2009 at Safaripark Beekse Bergen, Hilvarenbeek, The Netherlands. For information contact: 2009@. zoovet-conference.org or see h ttp:// www.zovet-conference.org The 9th International Conference on En v ironmental Enrichment - May 3 1 - June 5, 2009 in Torquay, Devon, UK. First Call for papers and Registration. Go to www.reec.info for details. First Call for Papers and registration-go to www.reec.info for details. Third Orangutan SSP ® Husbandry Workshop - September 2, 2009 at Zoo Atlanta. For additional information contact Thomas Heitz at theitz@zooatlanta.org or thomas.heitz@gmail.com. You may also call 404-624-5939 (w) or 404-414-9178 (cell). ■Toint 36th National AAZK and 3rd International Congress on Zookeeping Conference - September 24- 29, 2009 in Seattle, WA. Hosted by the Woodland Park Zoo and the Puget Sound Chapter of AAZK. Check out www.pugetsoundaazk.org/ for conference information. 2nd Call for Papers: You are invited to submit abstracts of papers, posters & workshops on any aspect of zoo work. More information and guidelines can be found at the ICZ website www.iczoo.org If you want to mn a workshop focused on developing zoo keeper skills, please send a short description. Please mark ‘ICZ Abstract’ and send to: Paul Howse, ICZ Steering Committee at p.howse@che.sterzoo.org Deadline for abstracts is 1 April 2009. Neotropical Primate Husbandry . Research, and Conservation Conference - October 13-15, 2009 in Chicago, IL. Hosted by the Brookfield Zoo. This conference will focus on a variety of topics pertaining to neotropical primates and will bring together staff from zoological parks, sanctuaries, and universities, as well as field researchers and range country biologists to share the most current information on husbandry, and conservation. Please contact vince.sodaro@.czs.org for additional information. 10 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 AAZK Announces New Members New Professional Members Nirmal Biptah, Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad, W. Indies); Michael D. Brown, Cape May County Zoo (NJ); Danielle Williams, Brimingham Zoo (AL); Mary Ann Cisneros, Mesker Park Zoo (IN); Susan Hoss, Brookfield Zoo (IL); David Place, California Science Center (CA); Allison Keeley and Kimberly Whitney, San Francisco Zoo (CA); John Urquhart, Toronto Zoo (Ontario, Canada). We no longer print the names of those Professional Members who do not list their facility on their membership application/ renewal (There were five this month). Renewing Contributing Members Mark Hofling Tarrytown, NY International Conference on Environmental Enrichment Paignton Zoo 31 May to 5 June 2009 The International Conference on Environmental Enrichment brings together animal experts from around the world to discuss and learn more about the issues related to enriching the lives of captive animals. This is the biggest and the best enrichment conference anywhere - be part of it. What is enrichment? Can husbandry training and exhibit design enrich? How can enrichment be integrated into daily animal husbandry? Should enrichment and husbandry be kept separate? What enrichments have you used and with which species? Do you have enrichment successes - or failures - to share? yc New Institutional Members Elmwood Park Zoo Norristown, PA David Wood, General Curator • Meet other animal keepers • Learn from other keepers and researchers • Share your experiences and thoughts on the subject • Catch up with the latest developments • Give a talk • Produce a poster • Do a practical demonstration • Organize a symposia Renewing Institutional Members Quimby Library Unity College, Unity, ME Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Cleveland, OH Steve Taylor, Director Michigan State University Libraries Serials Acquisitions E. Lansing, MI Henson Robinson Zoo Springfield, IL Talon Thornton, Director •it Ellis Library University of Missouri Columbia Columbia, MO Ellen Trout Zoo Lufkin, TX Gordon Henley, Director Gorilla Foundation Redwood City, CA Dr. Penny Patterson, Director Chimps, Inc. Bend, OR Lesley Day, Director Register Now - The registration fee of £225 includes refreshments and lunches during the conference plus a free drink at the icebreaker and some of the social events during the week. Early registration is due by the 28 February 2009. After this the rate increases to £275. Registration will close on 30 April 2009. More info available at http:/ /www.enrichment.org/ or email for more details at ICEE9@paigntonzoo.org.uk THE GOURMET RODENT, INC.“ RATS AND MICE Bill & Marcia Brant 12921 SW 1st Rd., Ste 107, PBM #434 Jonesville, FL 32669 (352) 472-9189 Fax: (352) 472-9192 e-mail: GrmtRodent@aol.com Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 11 REACTIONS A Question and Answer Forum for the Zoo Professional on Crisis Management By William K. Baker, Jr, Director Abilene Zoo, Abilene, TX Question Are there any precautions I should consider prior to international travel? Comments Absolutely, when traveling to other countries it is very easy to forget that there is always the potential for problems. Personally I believe that many people have become accustomed to their lifestyle in first-world countries. It’s all too easy to forget how easy we really have it in our home countries compared to other parts of the world. We rarely have to worry about the quality of food, water, and medicine. This is not to say that residents of the United States or other countries are above experiencing problems on our own soil, but it could be generally said that first-world countries experience a higher standard of living and the likelihood of having a problem is diminished in day to day life. Still, the risk of a medical problem is anywhere on the planet, so for the sake of argument let’s say it’s situational. Advance Planning • When planning your destination or destinations, always take the time to investigate what the current risks are in the countries that you plan to visit. Speak to recent travelers, your peers, and friends who may have already been to the countries in question. Firsthand knowledge is invaluable. Speak to or contact the destination country’s Consulate or Embassy to determine any current health risks or travel advisories. Also, always confirm what the current security warning and terrorist threat level is for your destination country. Medical Basics • Visit your physician for a complete physical prior to departure. Also, discuss all destination countries with your primary care provider as well. This will enable them to research any potential problems and insure that you have the necessary vaccinations applicable to your travel schedule. • Insure that you allow for an advance window of time for any vaccinations or inoculations prior to your departure date. Some individuals may suffer side-effects and you will want time to head off any potential problems with your physician before your actual departure date. • AIDS/HIV, Bilharzia, Cholera, Dengue fever. Diphtheria, Hepatitis A/B, Japanese B encephalitis. Malaria, Meningitis, Polio, Rabies, Tetanus, Typhoid, Lyme disease. Tuberculosis, and Yellow Fever are potential threats to world travelers and can be researched by the particular region of the world at the CDC website: www.cdc.gov/travel/ 12 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 Travel Basics • Allow time for your body to acclimate to sudden changes in climate before attempting strenuous activity. The last time I was in the tropics, I watched a couple go straight from the airport and air conditioning directly to intense hiking in a jungle climate. About three hours later they collapsed from heat exhaustion. Give your body time to adjust unless you are used to the climate. • It's a good idea to wash your hands every chance you get during the day. Especially wash your hands before eating and drinking. If this isn’t realistic or convenient then carry a bottle of hand sanitizer with you, (waterless, alcohol-based hand rub). ® If you are going to be outside in intense or equatorial sun, remember to bring a sun screen with an SPF of at least 15. I prefer the products that are scent free and sweat proof A severe sun bum with no available treatment isn’t just uncomfortable; it can be life threatening under the wrong conditions. • Remember to carry pest repellent with a DEBT rating between 30 - 50% to keep the mosquitoes off you. In many countries they are known carriers of Malaria, Dengue, and Yellow fever. Food Basics • Remember to inquire whenever possible about food preparation. In several instances, I discovered that yes pure water was served with the meal, unfortunately the meal itself was rinsed in unpurified water and that can prove problematic to say the least. • Whenever possible eat in facilities or restaurants that can be tmsted to prepare safe food. Don’t eat raw or lightly cooked food. Your food should ideally arrive steaming from the heat. Avoid dairy products unless they have been pasteurized. • Remember, just because the locals can eat something, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you can. Chances are they have enjoyed resistance their entire life to many things that can bother you, such as Traveler’s Diarrhea (TD). Water Basics • Always be cognizant of your water quality. If there is any question about purity, then drink bottled water or beverages. Generally speaking, most of the better hotels, lodges, and camps will have purified water available. However, it’s your responsibility to ask in advance for this information. • Be cautious of ice in your beverages. Like food, I have discovered that the beverage was fine, but the ice coming out of the machine wasn’t, they hadn’t gotten around to installing the purifier. • Generally speaking, unless the water quality is assured drink only purified, carbonated, bottled water, or canned and bottled soft drinks. • Never, ever, bmsh your teeth with tap water unless you know for a fact it’s purified! Bottled water can be a real life saver for this when pure water isn’t available. Extra Precautions • If you take medicine for a pre-existing condition then bring extra to get you by in case you are delayed returning to your home country. Insure that it is in a well-marked prescription bottle. • Remember that different countries have different standards for pharmaceutical production and it may not be comparable in quality to the prescription drugs you can get at home. • If you require a blood transfusion while out of the country, insist on screened blood. • If you are planning on being afield, then carry a first aid kit. A general rule of thumb is, the farther you are from civilization, the larger and more comprehensive your first aid kit should be. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 36, No. 1 13 • Bring plenty of anti-bacterial body soap and wash your body daily to prevent potential disease transmission via skin exposure. Potential skin exposure to Bilharzia (“Safari fever”) can be addressed with a topical treatment of alcohol. • If you wear contacts bring extra sanitizer and cleaner. It also doesn’t hurt to have prescription glasses with you as a back up as well. Disposable contact lenses can also prove advantageous when traveling abroad. Final Thoughts It’s not realistic to anticipate every possible occurrence when you travel. Not unlike crisis management, you prepare for the worst and hope for the best. The single best asset you have at your disposal is common sense or as my friends call it “street smart” when you are out of your element and traveling. Next Column: What do you look for in a dangerous animal escape drill? If you would like to submit a question for this column or have comments on previously published materials, please send them to AAZK, Inc., 3601 S.W. 29th St., Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614 Attn: Reactions/^ATF (About the Author: Since 1985 Bill has been active in the fields of science, zoology, and wildlife management. His education and experience include a B.S. in wildlife management and post-graduate studies in zoology. Lab and Museum Assistant, Shoot Team Leader, ERT Member, Large Mammal Keeper, Senior Keeper, and Zoo Curator at various zoological facilities. His area of research is crisis management in zoological institutions, which draws upon practical experience and training as a Rescue Diver, Hunter Safety Instructor, NRA Firearms Instructor, and Red Cross CPR/First Aid Instructor. Away from work he operates Panthera Research, and may be contacted at puma_cat@hotmail.com.) ICZN Amendment Proposed to Permit Electronic Publication The International Commission on Zoo Nomenclature rules governing availability of animal names require publication in a durable medium. To date, that has been interpreted as including paper and ‘hard’ digital media such as CD-ROMs, but this has become increasingly problematic as electronic publication becomes more common. To address this issue, the International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature is considering an amendment to the Code that will permit electronic publication of new names and nomenclatural acts. A draft has been published in ZooTaxa, and will be followed by publication in other journals, including the Bulletin of Zoological Nomenclature. This initiates a year-long period for community input, after which a final amendment will be drafted and voted upon by the Commission. The published draft may be downloaded from the ICZN website at http://www.iczn.org or the Zootaxa website at http://www.mapress.com/zootaxa/ The summary points are: 1 . Electronic-only publications should be allowed, if mechanisms can be found that give reasonable assurance of the long-term accessibility of the information they contain. 2. Some method of registration should be part of the mechanism of allowing electronic publication of names and nomenclatural acts. 3. Physical works that are not paper-based (e.g. CD-ROMs, DVDs) should be disallowed. We welcome your input on this important topic. Ellinor Michel iczn@.nhm.ac.uk Source: News Release 10/21/08 - The Center for North American Herpetology, Lawrence, Kansas http:// w ww . cna h. or g 14 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 36, No. 1 A Nutritionally Supported Herd-Reared Male Sable Antelope at Disney’s Animal Kingdom By Melaina Wallace, Keeper II, Disney s Animal Kingdom, Lake Buena Vista, FL Melaina.G. Wallace@disney.com Sarah Rodriguez, Keeperll, Disney s Animal Kingdom, Lake Buena Vista, FL Sarah. M.Rodriguez@disney. com Introduction In 2006, sable antelope (Hippotragus niger) at Disney’s Animal Kingdom were recommended for breeding by the North American Regional Population Management Plan. Three of the five females were successfully bred and in March of 2007 two female calves were bom and reared by their dams. On 9 June 2007 we observed the third female, “Sprite”, experiencing a difficult labor. Veterinary intervention was needed and a decision was made to immobilize her. The calf was positioned incorrectly, successfully pulled from the dam and determined to be a male, later named “Onyx”. The calf and dam were introduced after “Sprite” recovered from anesthesia. We were concerned about the effects that immediate post-partum separation may have had on the quality of maternal care. Therefore, observations were conducted continuously that day. It was observed that although the dam stimulated him to defecate and urinate, she refused his nursing attempts. To insure passive transfer of immunoglobulins the calf was tube fed bovine colostmm during his neonatal exam the next morning. To encourage nursing by behavioral example, the dam and calf were housed under constant observation with a nursing calf and her dam from the March births. A decision was made to present “Onyx” a bottle, to provide nutritional support while managing him in the herd, when he was not observed to have nursed by mid-day. Other zoological institutions have reported pulling calves for hand-rearing then reintroducing the calves to the herd at approximately day ten (Read, 1982 and Read, Noble 1984). Due to the aggressive nature of hand-reared antelope, as well as adult male sable, we felt it was important that “Onyx” be managed as a member of the herd to minimize imprinting on his care staff Therefore, “Onyx” became a nutritionally supported herd-reared male sable. Housing Mother and calf were housed in the sable holding area AP07 (Figure 1). This area consisted of six outdoor stalls and one yard. The separation barriers were chainlinked fencing, standing 8 feet [~2.44m] with plastic slats woven through to create a visual barrier. Each stall had doors at either end so that two adjacent stalls could create a round-a-bout. During the day “Sprite” and “Onyx” were housed in AP07, often with one other adult female, while the other herd members were on exhibit. “Sprite” and “Onyx” were housed in AP07 H07 overnight with visual and olfactory contact to the other females in the herd who had access to AP07 H02, H04-H06 overnight. This allowed members of the herd not yet introduced to be familiar with the calf before introductions. Fig. 1 - AP07 Sable/Tamer Pens Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 15 Diet From the day of his birth, a weight-based diet protoeol was provided by the nutrition staff at Disney’s Animal Kingdom (Table 1). The protocol was adjusted according to the calf’s consumption and eagerness at each feeding. Purina Pro Nurse'^* (Land O’Lakes Purina® Feed LLC., St Louis, MO) was chosen as the milk replacement for the duration of the feeding period. On Day 2 the calf was offered 20% Pro Nurse™ and 80% bovine colostrum. From Day 3 to 4 the formula was 50% Pro Nurse™ and 50% bovine colostrum. From Day 5 to 7 the formula was 90% Pro Nurse™ and 10% bovine colostrum. Day 8 through weaning he was offered 100% Pro Nurse™. The Pro Nurse™ was Table 1 - Sable Antelope Proposed Rearing Protocol (Prepared 2 March 2007) Day Ingredient Vo of diet Preparation Amount #of Additional Inforraation/Comments to feed feedings 1 Colostrum 100 No preparation required lOVcBW 6 Adjust amounts and # of feedings as required 2 to 4 Colostrum 50 No preparation required 10-12% BW** 6 Provide small amounts of alfalfa •Pro Nurse 50 250g powder to 1 litre warm dist water 5 to 7 Colostrum 10 No preparation required 10- 12%BW 6 Continue to offer alfalfa Pro Nurse 90 250g powder to 1 litre warm dist water Week 2 to Pro Nurse 100 250g powder to 1 litre warm tap water 10- 12%BW 6 Expose to “clean” sable feces for introduction of gut flora 1 month milk pellets or calf manna No preparation required Start to offer small amounts of pellets 1 to 2 Pro Nurse 90 as above 10% BW 5 or 6 Mix milk pellets with wild herbivore pellets months switch to wild herbivore 10 Offer hay 2 to 3 Pro Nurse decrease as above reduce bottle drop 1 Offer more solid foods months wild herbivore pellets increase feeds and bottle every or cubes increase solids week to hay • alfalfa and timothy 10 days *Purina Pro Nurse™ (Land O’Lakes Purina® Feed LLC., St. Louis, MO) **Pro Nurse™ amounts are a starting point. We may need to increase or decrease the concentration as dictated by the needs of the animal. Please report growth and intake to the Animal Nutrition Center so that we can adjust the amounts as needed. 16 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 36, No. 1 mixed with warm water (distilled until one month of age) at a 1 :4 ratio powder to water. A summary of his consumption has been provided in Table 2. “Onyx” was trained to shift for a bottle and stand on a scale before receiving his first feeding each day (Figure 2). The resultant weight determined the total daily volume offered. Therefore, the volume increases took effect at the next feeding through the following morning. After the initial tube-feeding, the calf was bottle-fed 100% bovine colostrum five more times that first day. We were encouraged at his eagerness to feed and acceptance of the lamb nipple we chose for the bottle. Initially there were six feedings, distributed evenly over a 15-hour period of staff availability. On 16 June 2007, we began observing bottle refusals and a decrease in the calf’s consumption. We thought the feedings may have been too close together causing a decreased appetite. One feeding was therefore eliminated. At five feedings a day “Onyx” continued to have poor consumption each day so we eliminated another feeding. At four feedings a day he refused a bottle daily. He averaged a consumption of 7.85% his body weight and continued to gain weight during this period. In hopes of increasing his total daily consumption we offered him three bottles a day totaling 10% his body weight in volume. The midday feeding was offered at the hottest part of the day. To combat the possible heat associated loss of appetite his mid-day bottle was decreased to 20% of the total daily volume offered. The percentage change in daily formula distribution did not have the desired effect. His total daily consumption continued to fluctuate and he refused five of 12 midday feedings. At three feedings a day his average daily consumption decreased to 7.32%. We again readjusted the feeding schedule and decreased his feedings to twice daily in hopes of better consumption. Although we offered “Onyx” 10% of his body weight in volume, his consumption rarely met this dietary goal throughout the rearing process. With evidence that he continued to gain weight daily and a discussion with our animal nutrition staff, a decision was made to offer the calf 8% of his body weight in total daily volume; this proved to meet his consumption needs. On 9 August 2007 “Onyx” began the weaning process. The total daily volume was calculated based on protocol, assuming his current daily volume was offered over five feedings a day, removing the volume of one bottle (669mL). He remained at two feedings per day until completely weaned. Volume reductions occurred every ten days with the total daily volume adjusted by decreasing 669mL, an amount consistent with the reduction of one feeding. “Onyx” was weaned on 1 9 September 2007. Throughout the rearing process he had continuous access to the adult diet, consisting of Wild Herbivore small pellets 5MM7™ (PMI Nutrition International, LLC, Brentwood, MO, 63144) and a combination of Timothy, alfalfa and Bermuda hay. “Onyx” was observed to be consuming small amounts of both hay and grain by late June though amounts consumed were not recorded. Method of feeding A bottle extension provided us with the means to manage “Onyx” as a member of the herd and provide sufficient nutritional support. This extension was made of PVC piping. A large cow nipple was modified to attach to the bottle and one end of the extension. The same lamb nipple that was used to initiate bottle-feeding was placed over the output end of the extension (Figure 2). This served two purposes for us. The extension primarily minimized our visual contact and eliminated our physical contact with “Onyx”, allowing us to follow a complete hands-off protocol. Additionally, the extension enabled us to accommodate the volume increases, and need for larger bottles, without regard to the effect changing a nipple may have had. The initial use of this began on 20 June 2007. Before the extension was ever put to use, the calf was clicker trained to shift for his bottle. From Day 1 the keepers placed a scale in his adjacent stall each morning, cued with a clicker, waited for him to shift, got a weight and then began feeding. The same was true for feeding with the extension; the keepers cued with a clicker, waited for a response and then placed the extension through the Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 17 Phoios by Animal Program Staff a, DAK with the bottle extender. the keepers cued with a clicker, waited for a response and then placed the extension through the fence where the calf could reach it (Figure 2). The hands-off protocol was implemented on 26 June 2007, when he was consistently responding to the clicker and shifting to the scale. Introductions Due to his birth occurring outside the herd and the time required to insure his good health and bond with his dam, being managed in the herd was a process of introductions. “Onyx” was introduced to small groups of the remaining herd in the holding yard only. In the presence of his dam “Onyx” was initially introduced to one mother and calf and separately to one dominant female in the herd. A small group introduction was done all day on 1 8 June 2007 to both mother and calf pairs without incident. “Sprite” and “Onyx” were still separated from the group that evening. The small group introductions were done to deter aggression. Introductions between a new animal and the existing herd is sometimes problematic (as described by Read, Noble 1984) because the existing herd often threatens the introduced member forcing a group fight and limiting a one-on-one interaction. The animal care staff was aware that the calves’ births could have caused more aggression and discreet changes in the herd dynamic. A reintroduction of the same animals occurred the following day. Though aggression was observed towards “Onyx” from a different dam, no injuries were incurred. He and the dam remained housed with the females successfully overnight and thereafter starting 3 July 2007. The breeding male, that was housed separately overnight in AP07 H03 for monitoring his medication consumption, was introduced to “Onyx” without incident in the presence of “Sprite” on 15 July 2007. At this point the entire herd could be housed together without problems. 18 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 Table 2 - A Consumption Record for 1.0 Sable Antelope “Onyx” Date Age BW Intake %BW #of Comments in days (kR) (mL) consumed feedings 9-Jun-07 0 Date of birth 10-Jun-07 1 19.3 1745 9.04 6 100% colostrum (5 bottles, 1 tube feed); Offered 10%BW 11-Jun-07 2 18 1652 9.18 6 80% colostrum, 20% pro nurse; Poor fourth feeding 12-Jun-07 3 19.3 1980 10.26 6 50% colostrum, 50% pro nurse 13-Jun-07 4 20 2092 10.46 6 Fair third feeding; Offered 11%BW 14-Jun-07 5 20.7 2212 10.69 6 10% colostrum, 90% pro nurse; Fair fourth feeding 15*Jun-07 6 21.5 2349 10.93 6 16-Jun-07 7 22.5 2044 9.08 6 Refused sixth feeding 17-Jun-07 8 21.8 2012 9.23 6 100% pro nurse; Refused fourth feeding 18-Jun*07 9 22.5 1553 6.90 5 Reduced to 5 feedings; Refused second feeding, poor fifth feeding 19-Jun-07 10 22.5 1980 8.80 5 Refused third feeding 20-Jun-07 11 22.8 2001 8.78 5 Refused third feeding 21-Jun-07 12 23 2020 8.78 5 Refused fourth feeding 22-Jun-07 13 23.2 2110 9.09 5 Poor third feeding 23-Jun-07 14 2424 10.40 4 Reduced to 4 feedings per day 24-Jun-07 15 24.1 1964 8.15 4 Refused third feeding 25-Jun-07 16 25.6 2071 8.09 4 Refused third feeding 26-Jun-07 17 25 2112 8.45 4 Refused third feeding 27-Jun-07 18 26.1 2140 8.20 4 Refused third feeding 28-Jun-07 19 26.3 1364 5.19 4 Refused second and fourth feedings; Observed eating grain 29-Jun-07 20 25.5 2169 8.51 4 Refused fourth feeding; Observed eating hay 30-Jun-07 21 27.7 1641 5.92 4 Poor second feeding, refused fourth feeding l-Jul-07 22 26.8 2798 10.44 3 Reduced to 3 feedings per day 2-Jut-07 23 27.9 2040 7.31 3 Refused second feeding 3-JUI-07 24 29.3 2288 7.81 3 Began offering 40, 20, 40%; Refused second feeding; Offered 10%BW 4-JUI-07 25 29.9 1847 6.18 3 Poor third feeding 5-JUI-07 26 1254 4.20 3 Poor first feeding, refused third feeding 6-JUI-07 27 29.6 2944 9.90 3 Fair second feeding 7-JUI-07 28 2392 8.10 3 Refused first feeding 8-JUI-07 29 30.5 1196 3.90 3 Refused second and third feedings 9-JUI-07 30 29.6 2435 8.20 3 Refused second feeding 10-Jul-07 31 1955 6.60 3 Refused first feeding, poor third feeding 11-Jul-07 32 30.8 2319 7.50 3 Refused second feeding, fair third feeding 12-JUI-07 33 31.3 2484 7.90 3 Refused second feeding 13-JUI-07 34 30.4 2702 8.80 2 Reduced to 2 feedings per day; Fair first feeding 14-JUI-07 35 32.6 1604 4.90 2 Poor first feeding 15-Jul-07 36 32.1 2608 8.12 2 Started offering 8%BW 16.JUI-07 37 32 2608 8.15 2 17-JUI-07 38 32.7 1308 4.00 2 Refused first feeding 18-JUI-07 39 33 1308 4.00 2 Refused second feeding 19-JUI-07 40 33.5 2660 7.90 2 20-Jul-07 41 33.5 2680 8.00 2 21-Jul-07 42 2680 8.Q0 2 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 19 Date Age BW Intake %BW #of Comments in days (kg) (mL) consumed feedin2S 22-JUI-07 43 35.4 2756 7.80 2 23-JUI-07 44 37.2 2904 7.80 2 24-Jul-07 45 37.6 2897 7.70 2 Fair first feeding 25-JUI-07 46 37.1 3008 8.10 2 26-JUI-07 47 1504 4.00 2 Refused first feeding 27-JU1-07 48 2558 6.80 2 Fair first feeding 28-Jul-07 49 37.6 3008 8.00 2 29-JUI-07 50 38.1 3028 7.95 2 30-JUI-07 51 39.3 2806 7.10 2 Fair second feeding 31-Jul-07 52 38.4 3144 8.20 2 1 -Aug-07 53 39.1 3050 7.80 2 Fair second feeding 2-Aug-07 54 3144 8.00 2 3-Aug-07 55 40.8 3204 7.85 2 4-Aug-07 56 1632 4.00 2 Refused first feeding 5-Aug-07 57 3264 8.00 2 6-Aug-07 58 41.8 3240 7.75 2 Fair second feeding 7-Aug-07 59 3024 7.20 2 Fair second feeding 8-Aug-07 60 2264 5.40 2 Poor first feeding, fair second feeding 9-Aug-07 61 1672 4.00 2 Began weaning, first formula reduction; Refused second feeding 10-Aug- 07 62 43.2 2675 6.20 2 11 -Aug- 07 63 2675 6.20 2 12-Aug- 07 64 43.6 2675 6.10 2 13-Aug- 07 65 1338 3.00 2 Refused second feeding 14-Aug- 07 66 44.3 2630 5.90 2 Fair first feeding 15-Aug- 07 67 2610 5.89 2 Fair second feeding 16-Aug- 07 68 2675 6.00 2 17-Aug- 07 69 2675 6.00 2 18-Aug- 07 70 2675 6.00 2 19-Aug- 07 71 2341 5.28 2 Second formula reduction 20-Aug- 07 72 45.9 2006 4.37 2 Duplicate consumption record through 28-Aug-07 29-Aug- 07 81 1675 3.65 2 Third formula reduction 30-Aug- 07 82 1345 2.93 2 Duplicate consumption record through 7-Sep-07 8-Sep-07 91 673 1 Final formula reduction; Reduced to one feeding 9-Sep-07 92 54.2 673 1.24 1 Duplicate consumption through 19-Sep-07 19-Sep- 07 102 56.2 673 1.2 1 Weaning process completed 20 Animal Keepers ’Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 “Onyx” was introduced onto the 26-acre [-0.4 ha] savannah exhibit with the herd on 13 August 2007. He became separated from the herd and was brought into the holding area alone. The herd was reunited with him later that day in holding. His next introduction onto the savannah occurred two days later. “Onyx” remained with the group and shifted into the holding area with them on cue. The calf still responded to his clicker cue for feeding when the rest of the herd did not respond to their established shifting cue. In this situation he accepted bottles through the gate leading out to the exhibit. Conclusion Once weaned, and ever since, “Onyx” appears to pay very little attention to the keepers. He has been observed exhibiting normal sable calf behaviors, such as: play behaviors, flehmen responses and herd cohesion. The goal of the staff was to successfully nutritionally support a male sable calf, with minimal to no imprinting on humans, allowing him every opportunity to learn normal sable behaviors while remaining a member of the herd. This would facilitate his normal social development as he matures and becomes of breeding age. At this time he shows no evidence of dependency on his keepers nor increased aggression towards them. The limited contact “Onyx” had with his care staff, as well as sustaining social integration with the herd during development, has thus far proven to be an effective way to nutritionally support a male sable. Although this method appears to have been successful, it did have an unforeseen result on the herd dynamic. Once reunited with the herd permanently, the dam had lost her position in the hierarchy. Although she was never considered the most dominant animal in the herd, she was now the most subordinate animal. Aggression towards “Sprite” dramatically increased, so much so that the greatest aggressor was removed from the herd indefinitely. In the future, if this situation were to arise again, staff plans to house the herd together every night from the beginning to encourage daily interactions in the herd. Acknowledgements We would like to thank Disney’s Animal Kingdom nutrition staff: Shannon Livingston, MS, Animal Nutrition Research Associate, and Eduardo Valdes, PhD, Animal Nutritionist, for their contributions and dietary guidance. We would also like to thank the West Savannah animal care staff for the work they did to make this paper possible and for their support. Many thanks go to the West Savannah zoological managers: Sam Berner, Karen Jasmin, and John Striekland as well as Joe Christman, Animal Operations Manager for their support and guidance. Last but not least, we would like to thank Dr. Jill Mellen, Education and Science Director, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, for editing this paper. References Read, B. (1982) “Successful reintroduction of bottle-raised calves to antelope herds at the St. Louis Zoo”. Int. Zoo Yearbook No. 22: p. 269-270. Read, B., Noble, G. (1984) “Management of Sable Antelope, Hippotragus niger, at the St. Louis Zoological Park”. AAZPA 1984 Regional Proceedings: p. 353-356. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 36, No. 1 21 Bowling For Rhinos Update From National BFR Coordinator Patty Pearthree Once again it’s time to make plans for the 2009 Bowling For Rhinos event at your zoo. Please send your email contact info for your Bowling For Rhino Coordinator to ppear3@.pear3 .org and let me know your event date so I can update the BFR website: http://aa7kbfr.org < Also let me know the number of sponsor sheets you will need ASAP. The year 2009 brings some exciting changes for BFR that we think will increase the success of the event. One hundred percent of all donations will continue to go directly to conservation. Not only will we continue to support Lewa Wildlife Conservancy (LWC) in Kenya and the Indonesia rhino parks in Sumatra and Java, but we have expanded our efforts once again. For those who have always wanted to help with cheetah conservation even more so than Lewa’s current efforts, part of BFR funds will now support the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF)-Kenya. Lewa is prime rhino and cheetah habitat so it is essentially strengthening our efforts to save all wildlife in this area. We will continue to support the Indonesian rhino programs through the International Rhino Foundation (IRF) in Way Kambas, Ujung Kulon and Bukit Barisan National Parks. In addition, we hope to begin supporting an Indian Rhino park if funds allow. This is exciting news as we will now conserve all five species of rhino and their habitats saving everything from orchids to elephants to sea turtles to dung beetles! The 2009 BFR fundraiser will support LWC with the first $160,000 raised. Fifty percent of the funds in excess of $160,000 will go to the IRF, and 40% will be additional funds to LWC. Eight percent will go to CCF-Kenya and two percent will go to “AAZK Conservation Resources”. So if BFR is not your thing because your favorite animal is not in Kenya or Indonesia, this is your chance to connect AAZK/BFR with a project to help conserve that animal in the wild. So If your Chapter is not currently holding a BFR event, now is your chance to start one and help conserve wildlife worldwide! (Editor ’s Note: For a detailed explanation of the new distribution formula of BFR funds, including how the new AAZK Conservation Resources program will work, please see “From the President” in the November 2008 issue ofAKF, pages 440-442.) Two-thousand and eight was a successful BFR fundraising event although we did not break 2007 ’s record amount of $316,000. BFR 2008 will likely be about $265,000 (yes, a couple Chapters still had money to turn in this past December and it is still most welcome. Better late than never!) This will still be our second best year. Thanks to all of you who helped make it a great year and here’s hoping for another record breaking year in 2009. The past two years have been difficult years for Blue Rhino® Gas Company. They wish to continue to partner with us to conserve rhinos worldwide but beginning in 2009, they had to cut their donation from $20,000 to $5,000 annually. I am grateful for their continued support and hope that we can rally to overcome the loss of income. I encourage everyone to choose Blue Rhino® propane tanks when needed and hope they can recover and strengthen their BFR support again soon. For various logistical reasons, our attempt to partner with AMF bowling alleys did not work out. Some Chapters were able to change dates but not alleys while others could change alleys but not time of year. So, continue with the best time of year and location for your needs. If the date does not matter, aim for May each year as getting as many as possible bowling in the same month is better from a PR standpoint. If bowling doesn’t work, try “Rock n for Rhinos”, “Run for Rhinos”, “Rummage For Rhinos” or “Wii Bowling”, etc. or through Chapter donations. Remember, the better BFR does, the more money goes to these great projects that now have a chance to include everyone’s favorite. Together we can save wildlife worldwide! 22 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 Bowling for Rhinos 2009 (Feel free to photocopy this form to submit to Patty Pearthree) It’s time to start planning for “Bowling For Rhinos 2009”. Please send in your information ASAP. There is a $25 administrative fee for each event. Send check made out to AAZK, Inc. to Patty Pearthree, c/o BFR, 318 Montibello Dr., Cary, NC 27513. Remember, if you want to be eligible to win any of the trips being offered, all money must be sent to Patty Pearthree by 1 September 2009, and you must be a national AAZK member in good standing to qualify. If bowling isn’t your thing, try “Rock’n for Rhinos”, “Run For Rhinos” or send a Chapter or individual donation. Every penny counts toward saving rhinos worldwide! Questions? (919) 678-0449 or ppear3 @pear3 . org website: htt p://aazkbfr.org Please Print Clearly Contact person:__ Zoo/Organization: Address: City:_ State/Province: Zip/Postal Code: Phone: Day - Night - Email: Will you be hosting a Bowling for Rhinos Event this year? YES NO When? Where? How many Sponsor Forms do you anticipate needing? If you like sample BFR letters/flyers/posters, they are available at the BFR website - http ://aazkbfr.org Mail to: Patty Pearthree c/o Bowling for Rhinos 318 Montibello Dr, Cary, NC 27513 Questions? (919) 678-0449 ppear3@pear3.org website: http://aazkbfr.org Animal Keepers ’Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 23 The Behavioral Husbandry Committee Presents Where you can share your training experiences! Training Tales Editors - Angela Binney, Disney ’s Animal Kingdom; Kim Kezer, Zoo New England; and Jay Pratte, Zoo Atlanta Training Tips: Finding Your Tempo By Christina Stamer, Behavioral Husbandry Committee Member The AAZK Animal Training Committee strives to support the mission of AAZK, Inc. by providing information and learning opportunities for animal care professionals to facilitate the use of operant conditioning and other training techniques, to achieve behavioral management goals and excellence in animal care. A few months ago we introduced our new series called ‘Training Tips’, where we examine ways to improve our skills as trainers. These are similar to Karen Pryor’s ‘Ten Laws of Shaping’ (1985), as they are applicable to all types of trainers. This ‘Tips’ article focuses on developing an awareness of how the trainer’s behavior affects training sessions. For this month, we will focus on ways to help take the stress out of training, for both the subject and the trainer by helping you find the right tempo to move through your training plan. I feel training should be fun and rewarding for both parties involved, and taking a closer look at these simple tips can help do just that. 1. Work on one step of a behavior at a time: You probably couldn’t perform a ballroom dance flawlessly from beginning to end if someone told you to “Dance!” You would certainly need each step broken down and demonstrated, perhaps grouped into short combinations, until you could remember the whole choreography. For your training subjects, learning a new behavior can take quite a bit of time, and rarely does an animal present a perfectly formed behavior the first time the cue is offered. This emphasizes the im^portance of a shaping plan. Use your shaping plan to work one aspect of the behavior at a time. 24 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 Train as you would learn to dance: one step at a time (Drawing by the author). 2 . Raise criteria realistically - Don’t jump the gun! So your subject has the first step of the shaping plan down solid. Fantastic. Reward them and praise them and pat yourself on the back. To prove that the animal is the genius you’ve always known it to be, you’re temped to jump ahead to the final steps of the shaping plan. They’ve had such a spectacular session so far, they’re bound to “get it”. NOT SO FAST! In all likelihood, moving ahead too quickly will lead to confusion at best, and frustration or aggression at worst! Imagine you’ve learned your first ballroom dance step, and your instructor immediately expects you to win a competition with a complete choreography! Resist the temptation to skip ahead in your shaping plan. Don’t make jumps that are too large for your subject to reasonably process. 3. Raise criteria realistically - Don’t go too slow: It bears repeating, raise your criteria realistically. You don’t want to rush into training a behavior, but keep in mind that once your subject “gets” it, it is time to move ahead. Moving too slowly through your shaping plan can cause boredom and stagnation in your subject. Imagine you’ve mastered the cha-cha, but your dance instructor just keeps drilling the cha-cha! Every day, every class. ..the cha-cha! It is likely that you would become bored with it, perhaps to the point that you’d stop showing up for class, or begin to hate dancing altogether! Much like a dance analogy that has gone on too long, working the same step of a behavior over and over can become mind-numbing. Once it is obvious your subject clearly understands your objective, move on to the next step in your plan. Remember that each animal has its own learning style and cognitive ability. Shaping plans should be living documents that can be changed, molded, and edited to your specific needs. It may be that your animal zips through the small increments you’ve planned, and can make bigger mental “jumps” in its training. It may end up that a behavior you thought to be simple proves to be very complex in the execution, and your subject can’t get to the next stage without a little remedial action. Split a step into smaller pieces and see if what is expected becomes clearer to your subject. Most importantly, be flexible, be open-minded and make sure you’re both having fun. As we previously mentioned, you may randomly see more tips like these in future Training Tales column entries as space allows. The AAZK Behavioral Husbandry Committee (BHC) also has several training resources available on the AAZK, Inc website ( www.aazk.org . look for the Committees link). If you have a specific question about animal training you are also welcome to contact us by way of the website link. Reference: Pryor K. [1985]. Don’t Shoot the Dog. Bantam Books, New York. Pp. 54-66. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 25 The Behavioral Husbandry Committee Presents Where you can share your training experiences! Just a reminder to our readers: We want to hear your training stories - the good, the bad and the fabulous! Please submit your “Training Tales” and experiences in operant conditioning to share with Animal Keepers’ Forum readers. This opportunity provides a convenient outlet for you to exhibit your training challenges, methods and milestones with the AAZK member network. Please submit entries based on the following guidelines: a) Submit a brief description of a training project at your zoo. These can be 500 words or less, in text or bullet points - it can be longer (up to 100o words) if you wish to elaborate; however, short and simple descriptions with a few images are Just as perfect. Details should include the following: 1. Define the training goal (what did you try to do and for what purpose?) 2. List important steps (How did you do it - include plans that changed along the way/what worked & what didn’t work) 3. Timeline used (how long did it take) 4. Tips you learned along the way b) Include 1-2 digital photos that clearly depict the animal in the learning process or performing the desired goal (list source and photographer of each image). Please send entries or questions to: Jay Pratte atJpratte@zooatlanta.org (use Training Tales Entry as the subject). Happy training! Big Cat Internships Available TiEilREEK WILDIIFE REFUGE H V Join us in “Saving Tigers One by One” As seen on Animal Planet® “Growing Up Tiger” Apply at: www.tigercreek.org Learn about Big Cat Management. Internship involves Animal Care Apprentice and Public Education. We offer experience that counts towards employment. TIGER MISSING LINK FOUNDATION / TIGER CREEK WILDLIFE REFUGE 26 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 Investigating Observational Learning in a Brown Pelican {Pelecanus occidentalis) By Stephanie Bessette and Erica Henderson, Bird Keepers Fort Worth Zoo, Fort Worth, TX Introduction There are many ways an animal can learn while living in captivity. Two types of learning include observational learning and positive reinforcement. Observational learning can be defined as ‘'Any procedure in which an organism learns through observation of the behavior of another organism” (Chance, 1994), Positive reinforcement is “A reinforcement procedure in which a response is followed by the presentation of, or an increase in the intensity of, a stimulus” (Chance, 1994). Several studies have demonstrated that observational learning can, and does, occur in birds. In one study of European starlings (Stumus vulgaris), a scientist had subjects watch a trained conspecific manipulating a plug for access to a food reward (Fawcett, 2002). When later tested with the same apparatus, these birds completed the task they had previously observed. Observational learning has also been documented in three species of hummingbird, ruby-throated {Archilochus colubris), broad- tailed (Selasphorrus platycercus), and rufous {S. rufus) (Altshuler, 2001). In this experiment, researchers were able to demonstrate that tutored hummingbirds learned more quickly than untutored birds when learning to feed from artificial flowers. This study made use of both observational learning and positive reinforcement. The keepers’ objective was to test whether or not a young male brown pelican {Pelecanus occidentalis) would be capable of observational learning by watching a trained adult female brown pelican. At the same time, the keepers used positive reinforcement with the trained female. Materials and Methods Two keepers worked with two brown pelicans, an adult female and a juvenile male. The female hatched in the wild and was brought into captivity due to permanent injuries. She has been in captivity since 1 996, and has been housed at the Fort Worth Zoo for approximately eight years. Her training, using positive reinforcement, began in 2004. The male hatched in the wild in 2007. He was found injured and taken to a rehabilitation center. While there, he was diagnosed as blind in his left eye and was deemed non-releasable because he was unable to hunt for fish on his own. He was brought to the Fort Worth Zoo the same year. This study took place in a free-flight aviary which contained a large concrete pool, three wooden boardwalks and a wooden deck for public viewing. Training materials consisted of a target (a four-foot stick with a small green buoy 1 . 1 Brown pelicans on the boardwalk in the Coastal on the end), a clicker and two wooden platforms. Aviary at the Fort Worth Zoo. (Photo: Becky voik) Animal Keepers ’Forum, Vol 36, No. 1 27 each with a heavy black rubber mat on the top. Keepers used the platforms to represent a scale in order to continue scale training and used smelt as the positive reinforcer. To begin a training session, keepers placed the platforms on one of the boardwalks. While keepers were preparing for the session, both birds were frequently waiting nearby. If the birds were not present in the area, the keepers would go to the birds’ location to begin the session. The start time of the session was recorded, then one of the keepers would begin to give cues to the adult female (Table 1). The second keeper would then record the female’s response to the given cues (Table 2). Keepers were also interested in specific behavioral responses from the male while he observed the female (Table 3). His behaviors were recorded by the second keeper during the training session. Training sessions were performed two to three times per week from December 2007 to February 2008. Each session lasted three to five minutes. Then, after four months, keepers completed four follow-up training sessions with the male. Keepers used positive reinforcement to determine whether or not he learned any of the cued behaviors by previously watching the female. Table 1. Ethogram of adult female brown pelican trained behaviors at the Fort Worth Zoo used during observational learning study in 2007-2008. ' r' j Cue Description Target Touch beak to specific object (target) held by keeper Water Move from land to pond Stay Remains stationary in desired location Mat Moves onto scale Table 2. Ranking system (for every cue given)* used for adult female brown pelican performance during observational learning study at Foort Worth Zoo in 2007-2008. Rank Performance 1 Unresponsive to cue 2 Incorrect/partial response to cue Correct response to cue, but slow (> 5 sec) 4 Correct response to cue, with no latency (within 5 sec) * Modified from Sevenich MacPhee and Mellen (2001) Results Keepers conducted 3 1 training sessions. Each session lasted an average of three minutes, for a total of two hours of training time. The juvenile male watched the female during every training session. Occasionally the male would ignore the female during part of a session (in 6 out of 3 1 sessions), but he never ignored an entire session. During 26 of the sessions, the male followed the female at least once. The male attempted to perform a behavior a total of 16 times during 10 of the sessions. He attempted to target twice and attempted to “stay and mat” seven times each. He did not attempt to 28 Animal Keepers ’Forum, Vol 36, No. 1 The female scored an average of 3.81 out of 4 (Table 2) for all cues given during a training session throughout the study. There did not appear to be a relationship between her performance and time. She did not perform better over time; rather, she scored high from the beginning which provides evidence that the female had been successfully trained to perform the behaviors on cue. Bird keepers Erica Henderson and Stephanie Bessette During the four follow-up sessions with conducting a training session with the juvenile male the male only, he scored an average 1 .96 brown pelican at the Fort Worth Zoo. (Photo: Becky voik) out of 4 (Table 2). This indicates that overall, his performance fell between being unresponsive to cues and showing an incorrect or partial response to a cue. perform the water cue. The male successfully performed a behavior only three times during the study, and during only two of the training sessions (he performed a behavior twice during one of the sessions). The behavior he performed during both sessions was “stay.” The male engaged in stealing during 15 of the sessions. Overall, the male showed no increase in attempts to perform behaviors on cue over time. Additionally, he showed a decrease in the number of times he followed the female during a session over time. Table 3. Ethogram of juvenile male brown pelican trained behaviors at the Fort Worth Zoo used during observational learning study in 2007-2008. Behavior Description 1 Watching Head positioned toward adult bird and trainer Ignore Not watching; head positioned away from adult bird and trainer Follow Moves toward adult bird and trainer while watching Attempt Moves next to adult bird and makes an effort to perform a defined behavior Steal Grasping a fish from the trainer without performing a defined behavior Perform Displays a behavior cued by the trainer Discussion Keepers were unable to establish that observational learning had occurred in the male brown pelican even though the female demonstrated the cued behaviors correctly. Two factors may have contributed to this outcome. First, there was aggression toward the male by the female brown pelican. She became more aggressive during each successive session until the male became apprehensive about approaching a session and would only watch from a distance. Unfortunately, under these Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 29 circumstances keepers were unable to determine whether or not, if given enough time, the male could learn from the female through observational learning. Due to the aggression, keepers decided to end the study in order to reduce the risk of creating anxiety in either of the two birds, which might result in unproductive training sessions with both birds in the future. Second, the male may not have learned to perform the cued behaviors because of his prior eye injury. The cause of his blindness is unknown, and may have been caused by cranial trauma. Thus, he may have some neurological challenges, though keepers do not have direct evidence of this. Despite these two challenges and the lack of evidence showing that observational learning had occurred, keepers did make some important discoveries about training these two birds. First, keepers determined that training the two birds separately was necessary because of the female’s aggression toward the male. As a result, during the follow-up sessions keepers trained the female first and then the male, which appeared to reduce the aggression from the female. Second, during the follow-up sessions, the male appeared eager to begin a training session and was willing to participate. For example, the male readily came to where keepers were located for a session, he stayed and watched the female during her session and he remained attentive throughout his session. So, it is possible that the male’s pre-exposure to the training sessions helped him understand the link between focusing his attention on the trainer and receiving a food reward. This may help make future training sessions with him successful. Finally, keepers did not anticipate aggression from the female. However, her aggression toward the male became a factor in this study. Therefore, a major point to take away from this study is to expect the unexpected. Acknowledgements The authors thank Katy Unger, Curator of Birds, and Richard Dunn, Supervisor of Birds, for their support of this project. We also thank Jenny Elston, Ph.D., Curator of Conservation and Behavior and Becky Volk, Assistant Curator of Animal Training and Enrichment, for their assistance. Finally, we thank the entire Bird Department at the Fort Worth Zoo for their patience and cooperation regarding the scheduling of the training sessions. References Altshuler, D.L. and A.M. Nunn. 2001. Observational Learning in Hummingbirds. The Auk 118:795-799. Chance, R 1994. Learning and Behavior Third Edition. Wadsworth, Inc., Belmont, CA. 379 pages. Fawcett, T.W, A.M.J. Skinner, and A.R. Goldsmith. 2002. A test of imitative learning in starlings using a two-action method with an enhanced ghost control. Animal Behaviour 64:547-556. Sevenich MacPhee, M. and J. Mellen. 2001. Husbandry training. Disney’s Animal Kingdom® theme park website. http://www.animaltraining.org/Tools. 30 Animal Keepers ’Forum, Vol 36, No. 1 C§C°)Ca©B[IlWZ^Tr'n(o)K] 1 HI ■ 1 r 1 N Compiled by T’Noya Thompson, AAZK Conservation Committee Member The New Year is always a time for reflection. We look back at the previous year and think how can we make this year better than the last. Dieting, staying in shape, trying something new or being more involved are examples of the resolutions we make to meet the standards of our new year. What if you could do those same things and also become green in the process? You can, and the time is now! We all know about the three R’s, but sometimes it’s easy to forget all the ways in between that we can do our part. Here are 20 minor adjustments that lead to major positive changes for you and our planet in 2009. “Going green is a gradual process. Make one tiny change every week, and you’ll be an Eco Savior before you know it.” - National Geographic 1 . Make a green website your Homepage. This way you stay informed and motivated! www.gmeiiliv in glips.cmii, www. i d e albite.CQm , www.wecansolveit.org 2. Turn off the computer when it is not in use or at night. 3 . Use a water filter instead of buying bottle water; it will save you a trip to the recycling center! 4. Eat green - Vegetarian meals require fewer resources to produce. 5 . Buy locally grown produce or grow them in your own personal garden. 6. Take one day off from road rage and carpool once a week. 7. Walk or bike and you’ll save 1 pound of carbon for every mile traveled! 8. Inflate you car tires and save 300 pounds of carbon dioxide for every 10, 000 miles driven. 9. Install tinted or double paned windows. 10. When cleaning, use environmentally friendly or organic agents. Salt, baking soda, eucalyptus oil can be used around the house without worry! 1 1 . Use only beeswax or soy candles when scenting your home. 12. Wash full loads and use cold water. Only run full dishwasher loads as well. 13. Add a rain barrel and subtract a sprinkler. Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 36, No. 1 31 14. Plant trees around the house to reduee eooling costs. 15. Insulate your house and water heater. 16. Put a stop to unwanted paper mail. Cancel it if not needed or go electronic. 17. Need a new phone? Check out www.GreenLeafWireless.com Buy a phone through this company and five trees will be planted on your behalf! 18. Bring you own bags to the grocery store. Once you’re done unloading, put them back in your car right away for the next trip. 19. Buy green gifts, not only to be green, but to pass on the message! 20. Pick a conservation effort of your choice to volunteer for or donate to! The Conservation Committee would like to welcome T’Noya Thompson (Moody Gardens/Galveston, TX) as a committee member and look forward to working with her. We would encourage readers to submit conservation-related items for inclusion in this column. You can send materials to Co-Chairs Penny Jolly (jollyhome(^verizon.net) or Amanda Kamradt (amanda _kamradt@yahoo.com) It is now 2009 and with this New Year comes building excitement. The Puget Sound AAZK Chapter is working hard to host the 3'^'* International Congress on Zoo Keeping and 36“’ Annual American Association of Zoo Keepers National Conference in Seattle, September 24 - 29, 2009. Seattle is well known for its rain and cloud-covered days. However, Seattle ranks 44th among United States cities for rainfall with an average yearly rainfall of 36.2 inches (92 cm), but still less than New York and Miami. Compare this to the 145 inches (368 cm) in the beautiful Hoh Rain Forest (on the west, or ocean, side of Olympic National Park in Washington State). Instead of downpours Seattle gets a lot of drizzle, but it rarely snows. Because of our diverse geography, we have microclimates, so it can be cloudy/rainy some places, clear in others. Mid- winter can be beautiful when the temperatures drop and Seattle gets those wonderful crystal clear days with brilliant blue skies - you’ll definitely need your sunglasses. Spring and summer are nice, less cloudy days and nicer temperatures. From July through September the weather is perfect, temperatures range from 75° to 98°F[23.8 - 36.6°C]. This will be a great time to explore Seattle’s waterfront. Cascade and Olympic Mountains, San Juan Islands, or just relax at a Seattle Mariners home game vs. Oakland on Sept. 30“’. For more information, please visit our website at www.pugetsoundaazk.org All registrations for the 2009 conference is being done online. Peter McLane - PSAAZK Chapter Liaison 32 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 EO Editor - Rachel Daneault, Disney s Animal Kingdom Lee Houts Excellence in Enrichment Award Two Lee Houts Excellence in Enrichment Awards were presented at this year’s National AAZK conference. The EO Column would like to highlight the achievements of both winners. This month we would like to recognize Bree Boothe. In the past year, Bree organized and structured the enrichment program for the Wild Life Live Show at the Oregon Zoo. She developed a process that ensures every animal receives enrichment daily and that the items are appropriately novel, complex and encourage species-appropriate behaviors. Bree’s organization and management of the program has allowed volunteers to gain an understanding and comfort regarding the use of enrichment, and has ultimately promoted the safety and well-being of the show collection. History The Oregon Zoo has supported a free-flight bird show for more than 20 years. The program, currently known as Wild Life Live, presents a variety of animal programs to students, visitors and the community. The show staff acts as both keepers and educators for the show program. Responsible for presenting more than 700 programs annually, the staff also cares for 37 animals, ranging from falcons and eagles to a kinkajou and rats. Due to limited staffing, the program relies heavily on volunteers to assist with animal husbandry practices. More than 50 volunteers assist with weighing, cleaning, feeding and enriching the show collection. The volunteers range in age from high school students to retired adults, and come from a variety of backgrounds. While they are a dedicated group of individuals who care greatly for the birds, they typically enter the program with little practical experience. It is up to the staff to ensure the volunteers have the necessary resources to uphold the Oregon Zoo’s standards of animal care. Goal For 2008, the show staff developed an ambitious goal of ensuring that every animal in the collection is enriched daily. There were many challenges to reaching this goal, including limited staffing and resources and changing volunteer’s perceptions of the importance of enrichment. It was necessary to develop a system that was simple to implement, yet ensured the animals were receiving a variety of enrichment, appropriate for each species. In October 2007, Bree was given the responsibility of improving the enrichment program for the show collection. Challenges Providing a variety of enrichment and keeping it novel can be a challenge for any program. Volunteers who were responsible for enrichment of the Oregon Zoo show collection would often pick favorite items (usually food enrichment), and ignore options that did not elicit an immediate, visible response from the animals. For example, in January 2007, the American kestrel (Falco sparverius) received snake sheds as enrichment five times in less than three weeks. This repetitive use reduced the variety of enrichment received by the kestrel, and staff began to see a diminished response to the over-used items. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 33 Past method for storing enrichment items lacked organization. Final organization of items makes enrichment easier to locate. Wall calendar shows daily enrichment to volunteers and staff, and allows for quick accumulation of necessary equipment and supplies. Below at right is the spreadsheet in the enrich- ment binder that details the enrichment, and serves as a record of what has been done. This can be altered by hand when necessary. All photos by Oregon Zoo Wildlife Show Coordinator Tanya Paul 34 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 Bree recognized that one of the biggest obstacles for the volunteers was finding and creating enrichment initiatives. Enrichment items were being stored on a series of shelves in unlabeled bins. It was time-consuming and often frustrating for volunteers to find particular items. The lack of organization often resulted in items getting lost or ruined. With both raptors and parrots in the collection, it was critical to keep items used for meat diets separate from items used for other animals. The lack of organization meant that animal health could be compromised if an item was mistakenly used for the wrong species. Strategy To ensure that each animal was receiving novel enrichment regularly, Bree instituted several new steps in the enrichment process. She began by dividing approved enrichment into one of five categories: 1) Food 2) Non-food (novel item) 3) Sensory 4) Environment 5) Social. Enrichment items were documented and indexed in one binder, including photographs and descriptions of the items. This visual account of the items helps guide volunteers when staff is occupied, and minimizes mistakes. Once the enrichment was categorized, it was important to develop a system that was simple for the volunteers to follow. Bree created a calendar that clearly displayed each species and two weeks of the enrichment schedule. Every animal is scheduled to receive enrichment daily, and each animal receives enrichment from each of the five categories during a week. The new enrichment calendar not only ensures that all animals are receiving novel enrichment, it also reduces the amount of time volunteers spend creating enrichment. Bree schedules as many species to have the same enrichment as is appropriate, cutting down on prep and placement time. If the majority of animals are receiving the same enrichment on a given day, it is easier and quicker for the volunteers to gather all the necessary supplies in a short period of time. The large calendar on the wall allows volunteers to see at-a-glance what enrichment is scheduled for the day. The enrichment is also documented on a spreadsheet in the enrichment binder. Historically in the show program, there was some inconsistency in documenting enrichment. The new system charts the enrichment for the volunteers and can be altered by hand directly on the spreadsheet. The final step in encouraging volunteers to use the system was to organize the enrichment items. Bree’s new system of sorted, labeled and stored items is more accessible for volunteers. In just a few short months, Bree Boothe redesigned the Wild Life Show enrichment.program. She created a system that was simple for the volunteers to implement, and encourages them to participate. The staff is able to easily document the enrichment. The animals are also truly benefiting from the new system. Where the collection was previously receiving enrichment three times weekly, the animals are now enriched daily. Bree’s efforts in structuring the show enrichment program have contributed greatly to the collection’s well-being. Congratulations to Bree Boothe for winning the 2008 Lee Houts Excellence in Enrichment Award! (Ideas appearing in this column have not necessarily been tested by the editors for safety considerations. Always think ahead and use good judgement when trying new ideas. You are invited to submit material for the Enrichment Options Column. Look in the January 2004 issue of AKF for guidelines for articles acceptable for this column ’s format or contact the editor at akfeditor@zk.kscoxmail.com for a copy of the guidelines. Drawings and photos of enrichment are encouraged. Send to: AKF/Enrichment, 3601 SJV 29th St., Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614-2054, USA. Eds.) Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 35 Con^^A^atUyn/Le^iM^^ Updcutey Column Coordinators: Becky Richendollar, North Carolina Zoo and Greg McKinney, Philadelphia PA This month ’s column was put together by column co-coordinator Greg McKinney CMS Declares 2009 the Year of the Gorilla - The Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (UNEP/CMS), also known as the Bonn Convention, has declared 2009 the Year of the Gorilla at its ninth Conference of Parties in Rome. Partners in this campaign will be the Great Apes Survival Partnership (GRASP), in cooperation with UNEP and UNESCO, and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). The Year of the Gorilla is part of the UN Decade of Education for Sustainable Development. Three of the four gorilla species are listed as ‘Critically Endangered’ in the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (lUCN) Red List. Gorillas are listed on Appendix I of the lUCN. The legally binding CMS Gorilla Agreement on the conservation of gorillas and their habitats in the ten African range states aims at securing the survival of gorilla populations in the wild. The main threats to gorillas are hunting for food and traditional medicine, destruction of habitat through logging, mining and production of charcoal, the effects of armed conflicts and diseases like Ebola. The Year of the Gorilla campaign will work for the implementation of the CMS Gorilla Agreement by supporting conservation action in gorilla habitat. Other aspects will be the funding and training of rangers, support for scientific research, development of alternative sources of income, e.g. ecotourism, as well as education and awareness raising. Interested parties will be given the possibility of supporting specific projects. Source: www.yog2009.org, December 2008 Mystery of Crocs’ Mass Die-off - Measuring up to 6m long, with elongated narrow snouts, gharials (Gavialis gangeticus) are one of the world’s most distinctive-looking crocodilians. Just 100 years ago, these fish-eating reptiles were prevalent throughout the Indian subcontinent; but by 2007, there were just 200 breeding adults found in only a handful of rivers in India and Nepal. Last winter, this already critically endangered species was dealt another cruel blow. Over the space of just five months, more than 100 of the creatures washed up dead on the banks of India’s Chambal river - and nobody knew why. For the past year, herpetologist Rom Whitaker, who runs the Madras Crocodile Bank, has been followed by a BBC Natural World team as he attempted to solve this mystery. Here, he explains how scientists may finally be on the verge of finding some answers. “It’s been a bit like a long drawn out Agatha Christie mystery. Everything we hear about just throws up more questions. Why is it just a particular 40km stretch of the river that is being affected and the deaths all occurred over winter? Why is it that only one particular size class - the medium sized ones - is dying? And why is it that only one fish-eating animal is being affected? We started to speculate that it had to be something in the food chain. Autopsies have told us the deaths were caused by gout, which more or less indicates kidney failure - and this points to the build up of toxins. The river that they live in - the Chambal - is one of the cleanest rivers in India. But this flows into another river called the Yamuna, which is a big huge toxic mess. We think the gharial are 36 Animal Keepers ’Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 Photo: Zooological Society of London moving into the Yamuna and feeding on fish that have big toxic loads. Then it is likely that they are coming back to the Chambal, having brought with them all this fish they have gorged upon, and this bioaccumulation of toxin is then affecting them. We believe that the die-off happened in winter because when it is cold, the animals are unable to metabolise anything in their system - they sort of shut down. This will take a toll on weak, injured or sick animals. And in this case, if they had damaged kidneys, and the kidneys were trying to excrete the uric acid but were unable to, then the uric acid would have spread to the body, causing gout. Ecologist Jeff Lang was able to fill us in on another piece of the puzzle concerning the size of the animals that were dying. The little crocodilians can bask in what little sunshine is available in the winter, and because they are small they heat up very fast. Even if they have eaten polluted fish, they would be able to metabolise it very fast - in other words, get rid of it as quickly as they consume it. The very large animals are at a stage of their life where they are not gorging on fish as they have no great incentive to grow fast. They are more likely to be concentrating on patrolling their territory than on feeding. It is the medium-sized class that are dying - these are feeding on a lot of fish as they want to grow quickly. And in the case of the adult females, they need extra energy for egg production at this time of the year. But being larger, it takes them a heck of a long time to warm up, and we think that they never do warm up enough to aid digestion and metabolise out the toxins. But why aren’t other fish-eating animals affected? If you are talking about river dolphins {Platanista gangeticd), cormorants (Phalacwcoracidae), otters and pelicans - these are all warm-blooded, and they are eating and expelling waste as fast as they can. So this accumulation may take place, but it isn’t happening fast enough to kill them - at least not yet. And of course, there is the sinister possibility that people who eat the fish may also be affected. The other species of crocodile that’s there is the mugger crocodile {Crocodylus palustris). And this animal is not a specialist like the gharial. Gharials only eat fish, but these muggers eat anything that moves. So we surmise they are not getting the same kind of accumulation of nasty fish in their systems. This is all speculation - but it is educated speculation. The pieces of the puzzle are beginning to all come together. But it is not enough to just find out what happened. If they are going to clean up the Yamuna river, we are talking probably about another long decade of really hard work - and there is a chance that a die off could happen again before that. The Chambal population is the most important last repository of gharial. So it seems that a critically endangered species with this one last bastion left is in real trouble. But the problem goes much wider. The gharial could be the canary in the coalmine. They are telling us something very important - that our rivers are dying, and that could mean us dying next.” Source: BBC NEWS, 2 December 2008 Brazil Pledges to Help Save Seabirds - Brazil has become the most recent country to formally ratify a major global seabird treaty. Endorsement of the Agreement on the Conservation of Albatrosses and Petrels (ACAP) means Brazil will take measures to reduce seabird by-catch within their waters. This will strengthen conservation action being undertaken around the world to save the 300,000 seabirds - including 100,000 albatrosses - killed in longline fisheries each year. All eight species of Albatross found in Brazilian waters are classified as Globally Threatened. “Species such as the Critically Endangered Tristan Albatross (Diomedea dabbenena) are disappearing fast because of incidental mortality in longline fisheries”, said Dr. Euan Dunn, Head of Marine Policy RSPB (BirdLife in the UK). “Brazil joining ACAP throws a life-line to Globally Threatened seabirds”. Longlining kills significant numbers of seabirds each year. They are caught as the baited lines are set behind the fishing vessels and scavenging birds seize the bait, get hooked and drown as the line sinks. This is known as by-catch. “Simple measures such as setting lines at night, deploying bird- scaring streamers and weighting lines so that the baited hooks sink more quickly, really reduces by- catch”, commented Dr Dunn. Photo of gharial at San Diego Zoo by Bo Link Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 37 The agreement requires signatory states to improve the conservation status of albatrosses and petrels. These measures include research and monitoring, reduction of incidental mortality in fisheries, eradication of non-native species at breeding sites, reduction of disturbance and habitat loss, and reduction of pollution. BirdLife’s Albatross Task Force (ATF) is the world’s first international team of mitigation instructors working with fishermen and government agencies in global by-catch ‘hotspots’, including Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Namibia, South Africa and Uruguay. ATF instructors routinely show that the adoption of mitigation measures are both operationally and economically effective. Source: birdlife.org, 17 Nov 2008 Rare Turtle Presumed Lost in Vietnamese Flood Rescued - Cleveland Metroparks Zoo turtle conservationists rescued a critically endangered turtle that was presumed dead after being washed away in a recent flood in northern Vietnam. The 150-pound Swinhoe’s soft-shell turtle {Rafetus swinhoei), which is the only known living specimen of its kind in the wild, was first discovered by experts with the Zoo’s Asian Turtle Program earlier this year. Recently, the rare turtle was swept away over a broken dam by severe flooding of the Dong Mo Lake near Hanoi, and the Zoo’s turtle team feared for its survival. The soft-shell turtle amazingly survived the fall over the dam but was later caught in a net. A local fisherman began receiving offers of thousands of dollars for the turtle, and it seemed the rare turtle was destined for a soup pot. Doug Hendrie and Tim McCormack, experts from Cleveland Metroparks Zoo’s Asian Turtle Program, negotiated with the fisherman for more than eight hours Tuesday before saving the Swinhoe’s turtle in exchange for a monetary reward. Hendrie, McCormack and others returned the turtle to its lake. “It is truly amazing that this turtle could survive such an ordeal,” said Geoff Hall, the Zoo’s General Curator who visited the lake earlier this month. “We’re very thankful that it’s over now and the turtle has been returned to its natural habitat,” The Swinhoe’s turtle, also known as a Yangtze giant soft-shell turtle, is the largest freshwater turtle in the world and was thought to have been extinct in the wild until the Zoo’s discovery earlier last year. Three others of the species remain in captivity, including two at a zoo in China and one in the Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi. The Swinhoe’s soft-shell turtle is considered by many in Vietnam to be a national treasure. The demise of this revered species is largely due to hunters who captured and killed them for food or to make traditional medicine from their bones. Loss of nesting habitats along major rivers and pollution also are to blame. The Asian Turtle Program is a special conservation program supported by Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and funded by the Cleveland Zoological Society, in partnership with Education for Nature-Vietnam (ENV). Source: Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, 26 November 2008 Preview of Final 110th Congress Humane Scorecard - The Humane Society Legislative Fund publishes an annual Humane Scorecard to measure the support of federal legislators for a broad range of animal protection issues. For the 110th Congress (2007-2008), this preview Scorecard provides an easy way for constituents to assess how their U.S. senators and representatives acted on these issues, and it helps chart the progress of our public policy work on behalf of animals. The final printed scorecard will be published in the next few months after the 1 10th Congress has adjourned. The Preview of the 110th Congressional Humane Scorecard is now available here http:// www.fund.org/pdfs/2008_humane_scorecard.pdf Source: www.fund.org, December 2008 Conservation Groups Challenge Owl Recovery Plan - Conservation groups are suing the Bush administration to undo the northern spotted owl recovery plan that is making it possible to ramp up old growth forest logging in Oregon. A coalition of conservation groups filed motions to intervene in a timber industry lawsuit over the owl in U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C. Seattle Audubon Society and the others argue the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service was politically influenced by the Bush administration and violated the Endangered Species Act by ignoring the best available science. Swinhoe’s soft-shelled turtle 38 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 both in the plan for saving the owl from extinction and in deciding to reduce protections for old growth forests where the owl lives by 1.6 million acres. The spotted owl (Strix occidentalis) was declared a threatened species in 1990 primarily because of heavy logging in old growth forests. Lawsuits from conservation groups led to the creation of the Northwest Forest Plan, which cut logging on federal lands by more than 80% to protect habitat for the owl, salmon and other species. The declining log production led to economic pain in the region, particularly in small logging towns, and the Bush administration has been trying since 2000 to relax environmental laws and regulations to boost logging levels, with little success. The owl recovery plan twice flunked peer reviews by outside scientists who said it contained no scientific basis for allowing more logging of the old growth forests set aside under the Northwest Forest Plan as habitat for the owl. The plan also identified wildfire and the invasion of spotted owl territory by the barred owl (Strix varia) as factors in the threatened bird’s decline. (Photo usda Forest Service) Dominick DellaSala of the National Center for Conservation Science & Policy, a plaintiff in the lawsuit, served on a team of scientists who worked on the owl recovery plan before it was taken over by the Fish and Wildlife Service. He said they were prevented from doing their jobs by a group of Bush administration officials in Washington, who needed an owl recovery plan that would allow logging in old growth forests in order to push through the so-called Whopper, or Western Oregon Plan Revision, which dismantles the Northwest Forest Plan for saving owls and increases logging on federal lands in western Oregon. Kristen Boyles, an attorney for Earthjustice, the public interest law firm representing the conservation groups, said the owl recovery plan, smaller critical habitat and the Whopper, “are the final pieces to the puzzle the Bush administration has been putting together the last eight years to undo the Northwest Forest Plan and deliver unsustainable amounts of timber to the timber industry.” Source: Associated Press, Jeff Barnard, 25 November 2008 EU Condemned on Tuna ‘Mockery’ - Countries involved in the Mediterranean bluefm tuna (Thunnus thynnus) trade have voted to maintain catches nearly 50% above what scientists say are “safe” levels. Environment groups labeled the move, by the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (Iccat), as a “mockery of science”. They put most blame on the European Union which, they said, used trade issues to bully smaller nations into giving support. Iccat’s scientists had said next year’s total allowable catch (Tac) should not exceed 15,000 tons; but on the final day of its annual meeting, Iccat members set a figure of 22,000 tons. They also rejected the scientists’ call for a closure of the fishery in the spawning months of May and June. The scientists had warned the commission that “a collapse in the near future is a possibility” given the high number of boats engaged in the lucrative trade. Earlier this year, an independent expert report branded Iccat’s management of the tuna fishery a “disgrace”, and put the blame on the shoulders of major fishing nations which, it said, routinely flouted the rules. In 2006, Iccat scientists estimated that illegal fishing in the Mediterranean added about 30% onto the official catch figures. The bargaining position adopted by the European Commission - which represents all EU members on Iccat - came as something of a surprise. At the World Conservation Congress in October, Spain - the biggest tuna- fishing country - backed a suspension of the fishery, and Italy was reported to have gone further and called for a moratorium. The EU’s opening statement at Iccat acknowledged that “the situation of the bluefm tuna is critical”, and that “urgent action is needed to ensure the sustainability of this emblematic stock”. Conservation groups which have long lobbied Iccat members to adopt scientists’ advice are now likely to take their fight to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (Cites). Numbers of the East Atlantic stock of bluefm have fallen so fast that listing it as a threatened species is a possibility. The southern bluefin (Thunnus maccoyii) is already categorised as Critically Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 39 Endangered. “The game is over - Iccat has missed its last chance to save the bluefm tuna from stock collapse,” said Sebastian Losada, oceans campaigner for Greenpeace in Spain. “It’s time to take the fishery out of their hands and look to conventions like CITES to impose trade restrictions on the species.” Source: BBC NEWS, Richard Black, December 2008 San Diego Zoo Receives $250,000 Sempra Energy Conservation Donation - The San Diego Zoo received a $250,000 donation from the Sempra Energy Foundation, the charitable-giving arm of San Diego-based Sempra Energy, for the Zoo’s conservation efforts. The funds will benefit the San Diego Zoo’s EnviroSchool program, which brings conservation programs into local schools; the 2009 Cans for Critters program, which encourages recycling throughout the community; and the Baja California Condor Education Effort, which works to raise awareness for this critically endangered species. “Through this donation, the Sempra Energy Foundation is supporting a project that educates children while promoting the conservation of endangered species,” said Berit Durler, president of the Zoological Society of San Diego. “We appreciate their support and look forward to working with them on these projects in the future.” “The San Diego Zoo’s conservation and recycling programs are important for teaching students and their families about protecting our environment for future generations,” said Jessie J. Knight, Jr., chairman of the Sempra Energy Foundation. Source: Imperial Valley News, 24 Nov 2008 Haven for Rarest Gorilla - The Cross River gorilla {Gorilla gorilla diehli), the world’s most endangered great ape, now has more room to roam. The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), the Government of Cameroon, and other partners have collaborated to create a new national park to help protect the population in Cameroon. The new park known as Takamanda links up with Nigeria’s Cross River National Park. Across its span of 261 square miles, it safeguards an estimated 115 gorillas — a third of the Cross River gorilla population. In addition, the park will protect forest elephants {Loxodonta cyclotis), chimpanzees {Pan troglodytes), and drills {Mandrillus leucophaeus) — another rare primate and a close relative of the better-known mandrill {Mandrillus sphinx). Trans-boundary protected areas allow species to roam freely between countries. The creation of Takamanda National Park represents many years of work led by WCS and the Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife in Cameroon. These efforts have included baseline surveys of gorillas and other large mammals, meetings and agreements with local communities, recommendations for upgrading the reserve to park status, and the establishment of trans-boundary activities with the Okwangwo Division of Cross River National Park. “The Government of Cameroon is to be commended for taking this step in saving the Cross River gorilla for future generations,” said Dr. Steven E. Sanderson, president and CEO of WCS. “By forming this national park, Cameroon sends a powerful message about the importance of conservation.” The Cross River gorilla is the rarest of the four gorilla subspecies. Other subspecies include western lowland gorillas {Gorilla gorilla gorilla), eastern lowland or “Grauer’s” gorillas {Gorilla beringei graueri), restricted to eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, and mountain gorillas {Gorilla beringei beringei), made famous by Dian Fossey and George Schaller. Earlier this year, WCS scientists discovered more than 125,000 western lowland gorillas in the northern Republic of Congo. WCS is the only conservation group working to safeguard the four subspecies, all of which are classified as “critically endangered” or “endangered” by the lUCN Red List. Habitat destruction and poaching represent the biggest threats to Cross River gorillas. Farming, road-building, and forest burning by pastoralists have fragmented their forest habitat. Gorillas are also targeted by hunters of bushmeat in the region. Primary support for the creation of Takamanda comes from a funding partnership between the Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife and the German Development Bank. The initiative was also supported by the World Wildlife Fund, the German Development Service, and the German Technical Cooperation. Source: Wildlife Conservation Society, December 2008 New Population of Extremely Rare Snub-Nosed Monkey Discovered - Believed to be extinct until the late 1980s, only around 200 Tonkin snub-nosed monkeys {Rhinopithecus avunculus) are left in the world. As a result, the primate is listed as Critically Endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (lUCN) Red List of Endangered Species. Unique to Vietnam, the species is now known to be present in just two of Vietnam’s northern-most provinces - Tuyen Quang and Ha Giang. The new finding came about after Fauna & Flora International (FFI) set out to discover 40 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 whether any more populations of the rare monkeys existed. While interviewing communities near the Chinese border last year, it emerged that villagers in the Tung Vai Commune had sighted the strange looking monkeys after seeing rare film footage of them that FFI had supplied to a national television network. On the strength of these reports, in April 2008 an FFI-led team of biologists managed to observe 15- 20 individuals in the nearby forest, including three infants - an encouraging sign, indicating that this is a breeding population. The monkeys were located in a small forest patch in Quan Ba District, Fla Giang Province, near the Chinese border. While observing this group, the biologists noted that the monkeys were very sensitive to the presence of people, giving warning signs to one another and fleeing the area whenever the team approached. It was apparent that the monkeys associated humans with danger - perhaps due to ongoing threats from hunters. Excitingly, local reports indicate that another - possibly larger - group also exists. During the work, FFI’s team managed to take a photo of one member of the new population - capturing a fleeting glimpse of an adult male scampering through the trees. This is the only photographic evidence of Tonkin snub-nosed monkeys in Quan Ba District. This new population provides hope for the future of this species, as the Tonkin snub-nosed monkey is now known to survive in no more than five locations in Vietnam, and at some locations the populations are probably in decline. Habitat loss and hunting for the bush meat and traditional medicine trades have been pushing the species to the brink of extinction. At this new location, cardamom plantations and logging for the Chinese timber market are clearing the few forest refuges left for this unique primate and it looks as though FFI has arrived in the nick of time to drum up the local and international support necessary to protect it. With urgent funds provided by Twycross Zoo in the UK, the first significant steps have been taken to protect this population and FFI has brought together a range of stakeholders, from provincial officials to village heads, to plan the way forward. Added to the mix is support from the Swiss development charity Caritas, which is working alongside FFI in the same district. They are now planning to provide support to the poor rural communities living next to the monkey’s forest, to improve local livelihoods and reduce human pressures on the forest ecosystem, thereby increasing the monkey’s chance of survival. Already, cardamom production has stopped expanding in the forest and there has been a government programme to confiscate hunting guns. “All recent indications suggest that we have a fantastic opportunity to secure this population and significantly increase the chances for the survival of this species”, said Paul Insua-Cao, FFI’s Vietnam Primate Programme Manager. “Most significant is all the excitement this has generated locally and the support that is coming from the local Vietnamese government agencies and Caritas Switzerland. With almost half the world’s primate species under threat from extinction, we must do everything we can.” In 2002, FFI and its partners discovered the largest known population of Tonkin snub-nosed monkeys in Khau Ca forest, Ha Giang Province. With an estimated 70 individuals, and the only population not in decline, this group is now considered the most important for the survival of the species. FFI began working to conserve this group immediately upon finding it and continues to support forest patrols and conduct ecological research, while this year supporting the establishment of a protected area at Khau Ca forest. Conservation biologist Le Khac Quyet, has made a name for himself as one of the few people in the world who can claim to be an expert on this mysterious species and, while working for FFI, is credited with discovering both the new population and the one in Khau Ca in 2002. Source: ScienceDaily, 4 Dec 2008 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 41 Animal Keepers’ Forum 2008 Index Volume 35, Numbers 1-12 AARDVARKS & OTHER BIOTA A Flamingo 326-8 Addax 58-62, 124-5 Chilean 516-517 Antelope, Sable 459-465 Greater 516-517 Aracari Flycatcher, Southwestern willow 475-6 Black-necked 78-79 Fox, Grey-headed flying 284-290 Green 97-99 Frog 391 Asses, Somali wild 58-62 Cajun chorus 83 B Florida bog 83 Banteng 58-62 Mississippi gopher 203-4 Bat Panamanian golden 204 Brown 126 River 394 Eastern pipistrelle 126 Terrible dart 204 Indiana 126, 295-6 Vietnamese mossy 204 Northern long-eared 126 White’s tree 204 Bear Froglets, Maud Island 165 American black 13, 30-31, 109-13 G Andean 30-31 Gazelle, Speke’s 58-62 Asiatic black 13-15,30-31 Giraffe 58-62, 298, 102-5 Brown 166 Goats European brown 30-31 La Mancha 406-7 Grizzly 247, 473 Oberhasli 406-7 Polar 30-31, 80, 82, 124, 247, 293-5 Pygmy 406-7 352-4, 430-1,517 Gorilla 159-61,230,330,332 Sloth 30-31 Cross River 80 Sun 30-31 Grauer’s 380 Beaver 333 Mountain 207 Bison, American 80-81 Western lowland 32, 348, 379-380, 431, 516 Boa, Round Island 168 Goshawk, Queen Charlotte 29-30 Bobolink 207 H Bonobo 332 Hombill, Red-billed 97-99 c Horse, Przewalski’s 330-1 Capuchins 222-224 I Cheetah 198-199, 516 Iguana, Fijian banded 475 Chimpanzee 180,330, 332 J Chinchilla 499-503 Jay, Plush-crested 78-79, 97-99 Cobra, Giant spitting 34 K Condor, California 430 Kakapo 205 Crane Kangaroo, Matschie’s Tree 74-77 Demoiselle 416 Kingbird, Eastern 207 Whooping 163-4,414-19 Kissing bug 331 Crocodile, Saltwater 517 Kiwi, North Island brown 168, 270-2 Currassow, Wattled 97-99 Koala 509-514 D Kookaburra Deer, Thamin 378 Blue-winged 312-15 Dog, African wild 198-201 Laughing 312-15 Duck, North American wood 42 L Duiker, Yellow-backed 226-228 Lemur, Collared 281-2 E Leopard 80-81 Eagle Clouded 130, 156-8 Bald 206, 249 Snow 332, 359-364 Golden 330 Lion 80-81 Elephant 72-73, 100-101, 429, 517-518 African 334-5 African 144-6, 185-8, 421-2, 519-520 California sea 249-250 Asian 144-6, 428, 495-7 Stellar sea 249-250 Elk 80-81 M E Macaw, Hyacinth 506-8 Falcon, Peregrine 206 Magpie 429-430 Finch, Zebra 249 Mandrill 69-71 42 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 Mangabey, Red-capped 449-454, 487-491 Seal Margay 21-22 Caribbean monk 296 Marmoset 78-79 Hawaiian 296 White-fronted 153-5 Mediterranean monk 296 Monkey Shark Patas 210 Angel 208 Spider 330 Atlantic blacktip 519 Moose 251-2 Shiner, Topeka 295 Murre, Common 308-11 Shrew, Buena Vista Lake 475-6 Mussel, Rabbit’s foot 295-6 Snail, Roman 208 Q Snake, Brown tree 31 Ocelot, Brazilian 31-32 Squirrel Orangutan 34, 283, 330, 332, 367-9 California ground 81-82 370-1, 381-4 Rock 81-82 Sumatran 273-280 Steenbok 58-62 Oryx, Scimitar-homed 163 Swallow 125 Otter 1 Asian small-clawed 17-20 Tasmanian devil 291,428-9 North American river 106-8, 241-4, 372-6 Thmsh E White-Crested laughing 271 Panda, Giant 30-31, 71, 164, 194-7, 233-8 Wood 207 247, 384, 397 Tiger 80-81, 128, 163, 165-6 Pangolin, Malayan 388-9, 519 390-1 Parakeet, Derbyan 271 South China 33 Peccary, Chacoan 434 Toad Penguin Mallorcan midwife 474-5 Chinstrap 308-11 Oriental fire-bellied 204 Galapagos 170 Puerto Rico crested 204 Gentoo 192-3 Wyoming 203-4 Humboldt 97-99, 192-3 Tortoise Jackass 248 Flat-tailed 126-7 King 192-3, 308-11 Gopher 203 Rockhopper 308-11 Madagascar big-headed 126-7 Petrel, Beck’s 167 Ploughshare 126-7 Pheasant Radiated 126-7 Golden 416 Spider 126-7 Silver 416 Tragopan, Satyr 416 Pigeon, Mauritius pink 116-20 Tmmpeter, Common grey-winged 97-99 Plover, Western snowy 475-6 Tuatara 516 Porcupine, North American 2 Tuna, Bluefm 29 Puffin Turtle Atlantic 308-11 Green sea 162, 208 Tufted 308-11 Hawksbill 208 Python 322 Kemp’s Ridley 208 R Leatherback 208 Rail, Guam 31 Loggerhead sea 208 Rat, Madagascan jumping 431-2 Swinhoe’s soft-shelled 251 Rattlesnake Yangtze giant softshell 291-2 Eastern diamondback 203 Y Timber 203 Vole, Water 208 Ray, Cownose 252, 336 Vulture, Cinereous 478, 84 Razorbill 308-11 Walms, Pacific 127 Rhino 163 Warbler, Kentucky 207 Black 338 Waterbuck 201 Javan 349-351 Wolf 80-81 Sumatran 33, 86, 349-351 Grey 204-5, 473-4 White 180, 250-1 Mexican grey 292-3 S w Salamander Whale, White killer 167-8 California tiger 475-6 z Southern dusky 203 Zebra Seahorse Grant’s 455-458 Short-snouted 207-8 Grevy’s 58-62 Spiny 208 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 36, No. 1 43 AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF ZOO KEEPERS From the President 8, 138-143, 173-4, 214-215 260-1,342-3,440-2 2007 Galveston Conference New Members 9-10,45,91,137 , 179,218 A Final Word 4 266, 307, 348, 396, 444, 484 Conference Proceedings Available 133, 172, 245 Paper Submission Authors 268, 321, 389, 503 A Note from the Editor 171, 211 2008 AAZK/AKF Award Recipients 398-400 Renew with PayPal® 132, 171 2008 AAZK Conference Searching for Your Support 211-212 Conference Committee 435 Elevating Animal Care 220-221, 305 ANIMAL KEEPERS’ FORUM Last Call for Papers 134 Second Call for Papers 12 2007 BIERZ Conference Proceedings 6 Third Call for Papers 48, 100-1 2008 Index 35-40 Video Night Submissions Sought 131,245, 280 AZA Conservation Endowment 2009 Election Year for AAZK 435 Fund and AZA Amphibian 2009 ICZ AAZK Conference 299, 486 Fund Request for Proposals 88 “One World One Zoo” First Call About the Cover for Papers 178 Black rhino 338 Second Call for Papers 395 Chacoan peccary 434 AAZK Award Nominations 49-53,92-94, 146 Cinereous vulture 478 AAZK member e-mail database 155, 229, 300, 340 Clouded leopard 130 AAZK New Committee Galapagos penguin 170 MembersNamed 171 Giraffe 298 AAZK Products - new 405 National Zoo Keeper Week 254 AAZK Website - Members Only 87 North American porcupine 2 Problem with Profile Info 436 North American wood duck 42 BFR Yahoo Group Established 87, 155, 300 Patas monkey 210 340 River frog 394 Animal Data Transfer Form,New 339, 444 Sumatran rhinoceros 86 Chapters Animal Training Committee (ATC) 2008 Chapter Challenge Results 299 Hand Injection Training a Margay 21-22 Chapters participating in Year of Injection Training 1.1 North the Polar Bear Activities 354 American River Otters Using a Donations 6 PVC Chute 106-8 Houston Chapter Hurricane Relief Fund 436, 482 Jay’s Big Chinese Adventure 194-7 Recharter 2008 reminder 4, 43 Lemur See, Lemur Do: An Example Recharter 2009 reminder 479 of Observational Learning 281-3 Thanks to Chapter Challenge Donors 211 Teaching Old Birds New Tricks: Update on Chapter Challenge Winners ; 339 Reducing Aggression in 1.2 Committees Hyacinth Macaws 506-8 Animal Training Committee Team-training & Scent Station Training A Change of Leadership 404 with Grant’s Zebra 455-458 BFR Training a Yellow-Backed Duiker Bowling for Rhinos Event Goes for Radiographs 226-228 Hi-tech 267-8 Training Tips 320-2 Funds Distribution for 2008 114 Training Tips: Who’s Watching Who? 385-7 Honorary Trip Winner Announced 175 Using Enrichment as a Training Tool 159-61 Trip Winners/Top Fundraisers 402 Using Natural Behaviors to Conservation Committee Create Training Protocols: Conservation Station 346 Advances in Matchie’s Tree Seeks new members 131 Kangaroo {Dendrolagus matschiei) Enrichment Committee seeks Behavioral Conditioning at Zoo new members 16 New England 74-77 Professional Development Articles New Chair announced 480 BFR Winners See Rhino Conservation Seek New Members 4-5 Close-up at Indonesian National Parks 349-351 Training & Enrichment Committees Allie’s Story: The Road to Recovery Merge 479 A Seven-Year History of a Donation Honors Project M.A.R.C. Sumatran Orangutan (Pongo abelii) Coordinator 43 with a Neurological Disease 273-280 Almost Famous: The Story of the From the Editor 3, 338,481 Clouded Leopard Project and its Editor’s Note 229 Rising Star 156-8 From the Executive Director 44, 302, 437 44 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 An AAZK Conservation, Restoration, and Preservation Grant Project: Houstan Zoo North American River Otter {Lutra Canadensis) Latrine Site Survey 372-6 A Nutritionally Supported Herd-Reared Male Sable Antelope at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Aracari Enrichment A snake in the hand is worth two in the bush, unless that snake in your hand is an Inland Taipan.... Assisted Rearing of Infant Mandrill Behavior of Female Koalas {Phascolarctus cinereus adustus) in a New Exhibit at San Diego Zoo Enrichment and Husbandry for Hospitalized White-fronted Marmosets (Callithhx geoffroyi) Evaluating Enrichment: A Pilot Study with Broad Applications First Breeding of Blue-Winged Kookaburra (Dacelo leachii) at Houston Zoo, Inc. Flamingo Holding Floor Washer The Formation of an All-Male Group of Red-capped Mangabeys at Brookfield Zoo - Part 1 449-454 From Education to Motivation- How are YOU celebrating Year of the Polar Bear 2008? 352-353 Hand-Rearing a Giraffe 102-5 Hand-Rearing 1.1 Asian Small-Clawed Otter 17-20 Human Ovulation Predictor Test Kits Found Non Responsive in Detecting Orangutan Ovulation 381-4 Implementation of a Positive Reinforcement Training Program for 1.0 Juvenile Giant Panda 459-465 78-79 306 69-71 509-514 153-5 109-113 312-15 326-8 {Ailuropoda melanoleuca) at Smithsonian’s National Zoological Park 233-8 It’s Easy To Be Green! 377-8 Maturation of an All-Male Group of Red-capped Mangabeys at Brookfield Zoo - Part 2 487- 49 1 Orangutans and Palm Oil: What you can do to help 370-1 Penguin Parade at the St. Louis Zoo 192-3 The Role of Facilities Departments in Environmental Enrichment 24-25 Shift Training the Grey-Headed Flying Fox 284-290 Snow Leopard Enterprise 359-364 Stimulating Natural Hunting Behavior In 0.3 Captive African Wild Dogs {Lycaon pictus) Using a Lure Course in a Protected Contact Setting 198-201 Use of an Enrichment Program to Control Feather Destructive Behaviors in a Female Mauritius Pink Pigeon {Columba mayeri) 116-20 Using Cooperative Feeding to Reintroduce 1 . 1 African Elephants (Loxodonta Africana) 185-8 Using TiVo® to Record Births 24 1 -244 Using YouTube® and MySpace® to Promote Animal Efforts and Beating Bono 411-13 The Visibility-Activity Project: Viewing Our Animals Through Our Visitors’ Eyes 58-62 Whooping Crane Partnership at the Milwaukee County Zoo 414-19 Wild Orangutans Declining More Sharply in Sumatra and Borneo Than Previously Thought 367-369 Assistance Sought on Zoo Stories Collection 436 Book Reviews Alone Within the Pack 424 Amphibians and Reptiles of Georgia 317 A Snake Hunting Guide 1 2 1 Dictionary of Herpetology 423-4 The Exotic Amphibians and Reptiles of Florida 318 Hand-Rearing Birds 121-2 How to Keep Jellyfish in Aquariums: An Introductory Guide for Maintaining Healthy Jellies 423 Life at the Zoo 122 The Lizard King: The True Crimes and Passions of the World’s Greatest Reptile Smugglers 425 Raptors in Captivity: Guidelines for Care & Management 498 Sea Turtles: An Extraordinary Natural History of Some Uncommon Turtles 202 Threatened Amphibians of the World 498 ‘Twas the Day Before Zoo Day 122 Wild About Wildlife: Have You Got What It Takes to Be a Zookeeper? 202 ZOOMility: Keeper Tales of Training with Positive Reinforcement 316-17 Conferences-Schools-Workshops 2008 AAZK National Conference 46,90, 134, 176, 213, 258, 304 2008 Elephant Managers Association Conference 213, 258, 304, 344 2008 Gorilla Workshop 7 2008 lAATE Annual Conference 7, 46 Call for Papers & Posters 304, 344 2008 Zoological Registrars Association Annual Conference 134, 176,213 258, 304, 344, 396 2009 Animal Behavior Management Alliance (ABMA) Conference 439, 483 2009 International Academic and Community Conference on Animals and Society: Minding Animals Call for Papers 436 2009 Rhino Keeper Workshop 483 Call for Papers 396, 439 U‘ International Wildlife Reintroduction Conference 7, 46, 90 2"‘‘ Annual Tree Kangaroo Workshop 7 The 2"** SSP® Orangutan Husbandry Workshop 258, 304, 344, 396 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 45 134, 176 176, 213, 258 3'^' Annual Aquatic Medicine Seminar 7 4“’ lUCN World Conservation Congress 90,134,176,213,258 The 5"’ Crissy Zoological Nutrition Symposium 213, 258, 304, 344, 396, 439 5“’ International Workshop on Ultrasound & Assisted Reproduction in Elephants, Rhinoeeros and Giraffe 396, 439, 483 7‘^ Annual Callitrichid Behavioral Husbandry and Management Workshop 63'‘‘ Annual Conference ofWAZA (World Association of Zoos and Aquariums) AAZK Venomous Animal Husbandry and Safety Workshop 5 AZA Annual Conference 90, 134, 176,213 EAZA (European Association of Zoos And Aquariums) Annual Conference 213, 258 Animal Behavior Management Alliance (ABMA) Conference 7, 46, 90, 134 Association of Zoo Veterinary Technicians 28"' Annual Conference 155, 176, 213, 258, 304, 344 Australasian Society of Zoo Keepers (ASZK) Conference 7, 46, 90, 134, 176 Bird Conservation Meeting 480 Elephant Conservation & Research Symposium 258, 304, 344, 396 Endangered Species Recovery Course 43 First European Elephant Management School How to Create Your Institution’s Conservation Program: A Practical Guide to Implementation International Association of Avian Trainers and Educators 1 7"’ Annual Conference 304, 344, 396, 439, 483 International Conference on Diseases of Zoo and Wild Animals 2009 International Cassowary Summit International Primatological Society XXII Congress International Symposium on Bat Migration 344, 396, 439, 483 Joint 36*'’ National AAZK and 3'" International Congress on Zookeeping Conference Measuring Zoo Animal Welfare Neotropical Primate Husbandry Research, and Conservation Conference 90, 1 34, 1 76, 1 76, 2 1 3 258, 304, 344, 396, 439, 483 344, 396 458 483 439, 483 7, 46, 90 396,439,483 90, 134 Ninth International Conference on Environmental Enrichment 6, 90, 134, 176, 213 258, 304, 344, 396, 439, 483 Otter Keeper Workshop 7, 46, 90, 134, 176, 213 Prosimian Husbandry Workshop 258, 304, 344, 396 439, 483 The Second UK & Ireland Regional Environmental Enrichment Conference 90, 134 Seventh International Aquarium Congress 7, 46, 90 Third Orangutan SSP® Workshop Scheduled for 2009 480-1 Training and Enrichment Workshop For Zoo and Aquarium Animals 46, 90 The Turtle Survival Alliance To Host Conference in Tucson, AZ 133 Zoos and Aquariums Committing to Conservation 134, 176, 258, 304 344, 396, 439, 483 Conservation/Legislation/Zoo News 2008 Indianapolis Prize Finalists Named 23 34 Rays Die Mysteriously at Canadian Zoo 252 lUCN Red List Reveals World’s Mammals in Crisis 470-1 American Songbirds Are Being Wiped Out By Banned Pesticides 206-7 The Amphibian Ark 391 Animal Longevity Records Set for Two Species 180 An Update 336 Apes Prefer a Warm Meal 332 Asian Waterbirds Stage Remarkable Comeback 206 Australian Boy Causes String of Deaths at Zoo 517 Baby Killer Whale Born in Japan 5 1 8 Bat Population Under Siege 205-6 Bat Thrives After Close Call With Extinction 518-19 Bear Species: Six of Eight Face Extinction 30-31 Beck’s Petrel Flies Back from Presumed Extinction 167 Birds Indicate Biodiversity Crisis- and the Way Forward 47 1 -2 Bloodthirsty Zoologists Use New Techniques 33 1 Brown Bears Make a Comeback in the Mountains of Spain 1 66 Buy an Acre 391-2 Cameroon Welcomes Home “Taiping Four” Gorillas 32 Captive Breeding Introduced Infectious Disease to Mallorcan Amphibians 474-5 Caribbean Monk Seal Becomes Extinct 296 Cats on a Plane 516 Chaffee Zoo Helps Restore Addax to Wild 124-5 Cheetah Conservation Fund Conducts Historic International Training Courses for Conservation Professionals 466-7 Chinese Police Dog May Teach Pandas to Fight 71 Chinese Workers Impacting Elephant Poaching in Kenya 519-20 Cincinnati Zoo Wins Federal Research Grant 472-3 Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Initiative Enlists Allies for Imperiled Amphibians 204 Common Missouri Bat Joins List of Global Warming Victims 295-6 Condor Released by San Diego Zoo Lost in Wildfire 430 Congressional Testimony Reveals Political Interference in Mexican Wolf Management 292-293 Decision Announced on Polar Bears Protection Under Endangered Species Act 293-5 46 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 Distinguished Field Biologist Receives 2008 Indianapolis Prize 212 Do You Want Fries With That? Python Immobilized After Eating Zoo Deer 322 Elephant Jenny to Stay in Dallas 429 Elephants Out for a Walk 517-18 Endangered Brazilian Ocelot Kitten Bom: Birth Significant For Species 31-32 Endangered Deer Released in Thailand 378 Endangered Tiger Caught on Camera 33 Environmental Education Through Virtual Reality 8 1 Environmentalists Oppose Ruling on Endangered Hawk Species 29-30 Federal Judge’s Decision Makes Delisting Wolves Much Harder 473-4 1st Beaver Dam in England for Centuries 333 Fishing Ban Needed for Mediterranean Bluefm Tuna 29 Five Tasmanian Devils Bom Disease- free South Australian Zoo 428-9 Flawed U.S. Regulations on Captive Tigers, New Report Shows 390-1 Foreign Tourists Threaten Snow Leopards 332 Freaky Frogs Grow Claws for Defense 331-2 German Zoo to Raise New Polar Bear Cub 80 Giant Spitting Cobra Species Discovered 24 Gorilla Find in Congo Stuns Primatologists.... Gives Hope for Species’ Future 379-380 Grey Wolf Hunts Planned in U.S. After De-Listing 204-5 Group Seeks to Protect Pacific Walmses Under Endangered Species Act 127 Healthy Living: wildlife use in traditional medicines in Cambodia and Vietnam 333-4 Heroin-Addicted Elephant Makes Full Recovery 428 Highly Endangered Round Island Boa Captive Population Doubles at Durrell 168 Hunters Help Feed Zoo Animals 5 1 8 Increased Protection Sought for Six Species in Seven Western States 475-6 India to Spend Millions to Protect Tigers 165-6 Indonesia Announces National Conservation Program for Orangutans 34 Injured Eagle to Get Prosthetic Beak 249-250 Injured Flamingo Recovers, Returns to Flock 516-17 Israeli Elephant Expert Dies in Ethiopian Blast 257 Ivory Poaching at Critical Levels: Elephants on Path to Extinction by 2020? 421-2 Japan Denies Vote-buying on Whaling 164 Just a Few 392 Lautenberg Introduces Bill to Prohibit Inhumane Killing of Animals 250 Lions at Kenyan Park Being Wiped Out-National Geographic Puts Up $150,000 to Pay Off 334-5 Little Rock Zoo Says Goodbye to JJ 516 Living Green 391 Madagascar’s Tortoises Are Crawling Toward Extinction 126-7 Malaysian Police Seize 42 Live Pangolins 519 Man Cited for Animal Harassment at San Francisco Zoo 163 Mapping the Giant Panda Genome 164 Memphis Zoo Breeds Critically Endangered Mississippi Gopher Frogs by In-Vitro Fertilization 203-4 Milwaukee Zoo Fishes Out Fallen Bear 5 1 7 Moose Return to the Highlands After Long Absence 251-2 Mythical Giant Turtle Found in Vietnam 25 1 Naked Penguin Gets New Threads 248 National Aviary to Send Endangered Bird to Guam 3 1 National Elephant Center Formed 1 00- 1 0 1 New Ban Targets Illegal Mexican Parrot Trade 520 New Choms Frog Discovered in South-Central U.S. 83 New Iguana Species Discovered in Fiji 475 New Species of Large Monkey Discovered 128 Northern White Rhinos Near Extinction 250-1 Oldest Captive Gorilla Dies 43 1 Oldest Captive Gorilla Turns 55 230 On the Edge-It’s electric! 33 Panda Party 397 Panda Sexercise 247 Pangolins in Trouble-Future Uncertain 388-9 Polar Bears Far from Land 430-1 Polar Bears’ Status in Doubt 82 Program Hatches 1000"’ Kiwi 168 Przewalski’s Horse Gets Reverse Vasectomy 330-1 Ranger Arrested in Massacre of Rare Mountain Gorillas 207 Rare Froglets Found in New Zealand 165 Rare Oryx Returning to the Wild 1 63 Rare Parrot Chicks Bom in New Zealand 205 Rare Reptile Rediscovered in New Zealand 516 Rare Sumatran Rhino Sighting in Malaysia 33 Relocation of Endangered Chinese Turtle May Save Species 291-2 Research Finds Baby Birds Begin by Babbling 249 Researchers Spot Rare White Killer Whale in Alaska 167-8 Roost of Millions of Migratory Swallows Threatened 125 San Diego Zoo and Polar Bears Int’l Form Conservation Alliance 124 SC DNR Gets Grant from Zoo for Reptiles, Amphibians 203 Scientists Shocked by Road Kill Stats 248 Seahorses Thriving in Cleaner River Thames, Scientists Say 207-8 Sea Turtle to Wear Prosthetic Flipper 162 “Semi-pro” Star Grizzly Kills Trainer 247 Spain Gives Rights to Apes 330 Squirrels Use Snake Smell to Fool Predators 81-82 The State of Our Ecosystems 332-3 Study Measures Impact of Humans on Wildlife 80-81 Study Shows North American Reptiles Doing Better ThanExpected 84 Study Shows Released Zoo Animals Not Surviving 162 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 47 Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo Explores Solar Power 387 Tasmanian Devil to Get Endangered Species Listing 291 Tests Indicate Magpies Are Self-aware 429-430 Thieves Steal Horn from Museum Rhino Specimen 266 Tiger Populations Plummet Worldwide 128 Tighter Turtle Protections Eyed 208 Towards a Hopeful Future... 348 Tragedy Stalks Animals at Vancouver Zoo 330 Training Has “Safety Pay-off’ at L.A. Zoo 283 Unidentified Ailment Threatens Bat Populations 126 U.S. Court Rules in Favor of Migratory Birds 162-3 U.S. Zoo Works with Mongolia to Save Endangered Vulture 84 Virgin Shark Pregnancy 5 1 9 VP Candidate Tough on the Environment 428 Whooping Cranes vs. Wind Turbines 163-4 Wildlife Conservation Society Measures Its Carbon Footprint 123 Wind Turbines Endanger Migratory Bats 432 With His 15 Minutes Past, Knut May Have Issues 247 World’s Rarest Gorillas Studied 80 Year of the Frog 391 Zoo Conservation Achievements In 2007 82-83 Zoo Fights to Save Rat Species 431-2 Zoological Society of San Diego Recognizes Cheetah Expert’s Lifetime Achievements 256 Zoo Mourn Deaths of Elephant Calves 495-7 Zoo’s Panda Population Drastically Reduced Following China Earthquake 384 Zoo Support for Elephant Conservation Hits Record Levels 72-73 Zoo Urges Bush To Save Polar Bears 30 Conservation Station Responsible Consumers’ Conservation Gift Guide 445-8 Corrections 174, 255 Dedicated Issue Call for Papers 482 Enrichment Options A ChallengeiAquatic & Herptile Enrichment 56-57 An Enrichment Feeding Method for Kiwi {Apteryx mantelli) 270-2 Asiatic Black Bear Enrichment Program, 2007 Lincoln Park Zoo Manitowoc, WI 13-15 Can Primates Receive Adequate Primary Diet From an Enrichment Unit? 222-224 The Confetti Bottle - A Novel Enrichment 97-99 Got Crates?: Indian Boundary Enrichment Project 406 Kelp Kit for Penguins and Seabirds 308-11 Lee Houts Excellence in Enrichment Award 504-5 No Money?. ..No Problem! The Animal Enrichment Giving Tree 182-4 Walking it Off: Using Exercise to Reduce Aggression in a Female Asian Elephant 144-6 We Need Your Submissions 468-9 In Memorium 301,438 Keeper Assistance Sought 132 National Zoo Keeper Week 2008 2 1 6, 262 I Am a Keeper 264-5 National Zoo Keepers Week 2009 480 Nominations Open for 2010 Indianapolis Prize 255, 435 Notes from the Field SRI LANKA - an Earthwatch Odyssey 65-68 Wild Chinchilla Night Viewing 499-503 Publications AKF Crisis Management In Zoos 54-55, 95-96, 147-8, 189-190 231-2, 324-5,426-7 Gibbon Journal Available for Downloading 299-300 North American Herp Key Still Available 88 Recommendation for Environmental Education Resource 132 U of M Museum of Zoology Offers Gratis Access to Herpetological Publications 131-2 Reactions Free-contact training with felids 239-240 Free-contact training work with dangerous animals 26-28 Modifying firearms, how can I tell gadgets from something helpful? 493-4 Natural disaster emergency items for personal and zoo animals use 149-152 Net vs. Dart Gun 408-10 Research/Grants IRF Seeks Research Pre-Proposals 435 Dallas Zoo Offers Field Research 87 John Ball Zoo Society Grants 88 T-shirt Sales Benefit Coral Reef Conservation 255-6 Websites/Listserves/Web Resources/Biogs IRF Previews New Website 132 RRC Newsletter Available 88 Bonobo Blog 339 Carnivore Keepers’ Listserves 339-341 Checklist of Chelonians of the World 6 New York State Zoo’s Education and Program Animal Information Center and Database 5-6 Ring-tailed Lemur SSP® 484 Websites of Interest 341 Year of the Polar Bear 340 35th Anniversary - 1974 - 2009 48 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 36, No. 1 A AZK Membership Application (Please Print) check here if renewal [ J Name Email Mailing Address City □ U.S. Members $40.00 Professional Full-time Keepers □ $35.00 Affiliate Other staff & volunteers, or those interested in the profession but not associated with a zoo or aquarium □ $25.00 Student Must supply a copy of current student ID at time of application □ $65.00 or up - Individuals Contributing/U.S. □ $150.00 or up Institutional/U.S. (requires Board approval) □ $125.00 Commercial Members (i.e.Animal-related food & supplies) □ International Members $55.00 International Zoo Affiliation (if any) Zoo Address Zip/Postal Code Country □ Canadian Members $40.00 Professional Full-time Keepers □ $40.00 Affdiate Other staff & volunteers or those interested in the profession but not associated with a zoo or aquarium □ $25.00 Student Must supply a copy of current student ID at time of application □ $65.00 or up - Individuals Contributing/Canada □ $150.00 or up Institutional/Canada (requires Board approval) Library Only Available onl y to public & $40.00 Library university libraries (in U.S.) All members outside U.S. & Canada regardless of category State/Province TitleAVork Area □ My check is enclosed (AAZK, Inc.) 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