( f'' y ir!': ,‘h i V: AMINIAl KEEPERS R xj The lournal of the American Association of loo Keepers, inc. July 2000 ANIMAL KEEPERS’ FORUM. 3601 S.W. 29th St., Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614 Phone: 1-800-242-4519 (U.S.) 1-800-468-1966 (Canada) FAX (785) 273-1980 JULY 2000 VoL 27, No. 7 Managing Editor: Susan D. Chan • Associate Editors/Enrichment Options Coordinators: Gretchen Ziegler, Sequoia Park Zoo & Jan Roletto, Utah’s Hogle Zoo • Legislative Outlook Column Coordinator: Georgann B. Johnston, Sacramento, CA. • ABC's Column Coordinator: Diana Guerrero, San Diego, CA • Reactions Column Coordinator: William K. Baker, Jr., Frank Buck Zoo, Gainesville, TX Animal Keepers’ Forum (ISSN 0164-9531) is a monthly journal of the American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. Ten dollars of each membership fee goes tovv^ard the annual publication costs of Animal Keepers’ Forum . Third Class postage paid at Topeka, KS. Postmaster - Please send address changes to: American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc., 3601 S.W. 29th Street, Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614 - attn: Barbara Manspeaker, Administrative Secretary AAZK ]Ex?://www.abwak.co.uk ^^^\frican Zoological Gardens, Aquaria and Botanic Gardens http^^^pa^2ab.org/aboutpaazab/index.html Animt; in Circuses and Zoos http://nnibers.dencity.com/K-WReport/ Message Jrom the /^resident Summertbe a time to sit back and relax, enjoying vacation time and the summer se<^on.... unless, of course, you are a zoo keeper and this is the busiest time of your ear. We all know how hectic this time is, so I want you all to think about the ner future when we all will try to meet up again and enjoy the company of ol and new friends. I am refering to Conference time, this year hosted by the ^.olumbus Zoo, just one of the beautiful zoos in the Midwest. Please send in ^our registration and make your plans early. The Columbus AAZK Chapter i, working very hard to make this an exceptional conference. Remember that tlis area of the country has much to offer and all of the nearby zoos of the region vj ji also be proud to have you visit them either before, during, or after the Conference. I would personally like to extend an invitation to all of you to visit the Clev^and Metroparks Zoo, either as a pre-conference delegate or on your own. I kney^r yQ^ ^ot be disappointed with any of the zoos in the region that you choos^to visit. \ I, along with the Board of Directors, would also like to remind you to please submit your concerns or proposals to us prior to the Conference so we are able to address them during oUr pre-conference BOD meetings. Also, please take a few moments to fill out the AAZK Workplace Survey 2000 which appeared in the June 2000 AXF as a pull-out insert; or go online at the AAZK website and fill out the survey electronically. We need your input. Enjoy the summer and I hope to see you in Columbus. Scott M. Wright AAZK, Inc. President 288 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7, 2000 Coming events Animal Behavior Society Annual Meeting August 5-9, 2000 in Atlanta, GA, co-hosted by Morehouse College and Zoo Atlanta. Along with contributed talks and posters, the meetings will include special symposia on “Dispersal Behavior” and invited papers on “Comparison Between Primates and Cetaceans”. Plenary speakers include Chris Boake, Hugh Drummond and Dee Boersma. For further info see: http:// WWW. animalbehavior. org/ AB S/Program/ 21st Annual Conference of the Association of Avian Veterinarians (AAV) - Aug. 29- Sept. 2, 2000 in Portland, OR. To request a registration brochure, complete the form on the conference web page: www.conferenceoffice.com/aav Association of Zoo Veterinary Technicians Annual Conference - Sept. 6-10, 2000 in Orlando, FL. To be held at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL. For conference information contact: Kerri Bolling, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, phone: (407) 938- 2869; e-mail:Kerri.Bolling@disney.com< For AZVT membership info contact: Lisa Cree, CVT, White Oak Conservation Center, 3823 Owens Road, Yulee, FL 32097; e-mail at LisaK@wo.gilman.com American Association of Zoo Veterinarians - Sept. 17-21, 2000 in New Orleans, LA, in conjunction with the International Association of Aquatic Animal Medicine. For additional information, please contact Wilbur Armand, VMD, Executive Director/AAZV, 6 North Pennell Rd., Media, PA 19063; Phone - (610) 892- 4812; Fax - (610) 892-4813; or e-mail at - 75634.235 ©CompuServe. com< Association of Zoological Horticulture Annual Conference - Sept. 30-October 4, 2000 in New York City. Will include study trips to Bronx Zoo and three other zoos as well as paper sessons; AZH 20th anniversary party; pre-conference tour to Longwood Gardens, Morris Arboretum and Philadelphia Zoo. For registration packet contact Rob Halpern, Bronx Zoo (718) 220-5164 or rhalpern@wcs.org Elephant Managers International Conference - 6 - 9 October 2000 in Syracuse, NY. For more information please eontact Adrienne Whiteley on: bpzoo@emi.com Association of Zoo and Aquarium Docents LAZAD) - October 11-15, 2000 in Cincinnati,OH. Hosted by the Cincinnati Zoo. Interested parties should contact Norma Cole at 9419 177th Place NW #2, Redmond, WA 93052-6933 or at NcoleOrca@aol.com Panda 2000 International Conference - October 16-19, 2000 in San Diego, CA. Hosted by Zoological Society of San Diego and World Wildlife Fund. A program consisting primarily of workshops, panel discussions and poster sessions is planned. Topics in conservation, education, training, research, health, reproduction, and captive management will be covered. For info contact Helena Fitch-Snyder, Zool. Soc. of San Diego, PO Box 120551, San Diego, CA 92112. Phone: (619) 557-3954, FAX: (619) 557-3959; E-mail: helena@sandiegozoo.org. 23rd Annual International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council Conference - October 25-29, 2000 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Conference theme is "Wildlife Without Borders". For further information contact Mary Reynolds, Executive Director, IWRC, 4437 Central Place, Suite B-4, Suisun City, CA 94585-1633; phone - (707) 864-1761; Fax - (707) 864-3106; e-mail - iwrc@inreach.com; website address:iwrc- online.org< Carnivores 2000; A Conference on Predator Biology and Conservation in the 21st Century - November 12-15, 2000. Hosted by the Defenders of Wildlife at the Omni Interlocken Hotel in Denver, CO. For more information contact: Carnivores 2000, Defenders of Wildlife, 1101 14th St., NW, Washington, DC 20005 or call (202) 789-2844 ext. 315 or e-mail: nfascione@defenders.org< r^THE GOURMET RODENT TM RATS AND MICE Bill & Marcia Brant 6115 SW 137th Avenue Archer. FL 32618 (352) 495-9024 FAX (352) 495-9781 e-mail: GrmtRcxlentdaol.com V <0 All Rl^ts Reserved Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7, 2000 289 ABC ^ Animal Behavior Concerns & Solutions A Question and Answer Forum for the Zoo Professional Diana Guerrero, Independent Dehavior Consultant, Ark Animals of California, San Die^o, CA Question American Zoo. We would like to instigate a clicker training program with some animals slated to be relocated into a new enclosure. Should we start now or wait until they are moved? Can you give us any hints on starting this type of program? Background The species involved are two American Black Bears (Ursus americanus). They have been at the institution for over four years and although they arrived as young cubs, they were never tamed. The current enclosure is a cage that requires that they be moved into a back area so that keepers can clean it. Historically the animals have had to be lured into the back but they can also be very uncooperative. The new exhibit will provide separate den boxes for each animal and the keepers would like to begin a training program that would enable them to move the animals in when required. They would also like be able to provide enrichment within the exhibit several times a day. Additionally, they would also like to be able to shift the animals so that they can be housed in their night quarters each evening. Answer A clicker is a conditioned reinforcer. So, your question is really asking for information related to starting a conditioning program using a clicker or some other event marker to assist you in this type of training. So, your tools can be a clicker, whistle, tone, or a verbal marker since all of these can be used as event markers. It is just a matter of preference. You can sometimes get confused with terms but these items are known as conditioned reinforcers. For our purposes here the tool of choice can also be referred to as a secondary reinforcer or as a bridging stimulus (aka bridge). When you begin to condition an animal, you will first teach the animal what a bridge means. It is a secondary reinforcer that signals that they were successful or on the right track in their performance. So to train this, if you are offering 5nimmy tidbits, you pair the bridge with the presentation of the tidbit. After a number of repetitions, the animal will associate that bridge with the food. Food in this case is a primary reinforcer. When the association is made, the bridge becomes a secondary reinforcer. (Which is also why it is called a conditioned reinforcer!) Essentially the bridge is an lOU that food is coming and also is a signal that the animal responded correctly. 290 Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 7, 2000 Many trainers simply use a verbal term (like good) when training. Timing, voice inflection and developing consistency between trainers are some of the reasons why many institutions have moved away from the verbal marker. Although I have used clickers, I prefer to use a stimulus or signal that allows me to have my hands free. For this reason, whistles are popular with many facilities. They can be hung on your neck and allow you to have your hands free. The Acme® dog whistles are not as obnoxious as some of the sports or police whistles and can be adjusted to give out different tones or even the same one if that is desired; the adjustments are simple to do. Having your hands free allows you to use targets, deliver the primary reinforcer, and other such tasks. It also can help you with effective timing of the bridge. Marine animal trainers started using whistles since sound travels well both above and under water. After you have trained the bridge and the animal understands that concept, your next steps would be to begin the shaping behavior and later putting the behavior under stimulus control. I am not going to get into that here but a good consultant or the books by Pryor and Rameriz can help you understand a variety of concepts and applications regarding this type of training. Ideally you will start your program as soon as possible. You might not be able to get as far as you would like before you make the move but beginning the training will assist you in the transition. You may experience a temporary backslide in behavior and performance after the change. If you do, dont worry too much — just back up into the previous levels where you can get success and then move back up again. This type of thing can happen when you add a bunch of new variables or when the animal enters into a more stressful situation. Last fall I talked a bit about setting up a training program in a zoo {AKF, VoL 26, No. 9; pgs. 338-340). The same procedures will apply in this situation. Remember that implementing a good training program can be as simple or as complex as you or your facility wants to make it. To develop an in-house program will require good planning and communication. Everything will need to function within the confines of established routines. Be sure that you have solid record keeping and consistency within it. It would be a good idea to develop a checklist of behaviors with standard objective rating of criteria. Handwritten records are important but sometimes they can be too subjective. (A balance between the two would be ideal.) Staff members who are assisting with the training should be able to adhere to consistency in training applications and receive a solid education about training concepts and principles. Additionally, the practical experience in applying those concepts and principles are invaluable. The adaptability or sensitivity of the animals in your group and the new exhibit design are additional influences to consider and to troubleshoot. If your animals are sometimes uncooperative (as you have commented) you should make observations Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7, 2000 291 during your current interactions so that you can pinpoint why and develop a winning strategy so that you can set yourselves up for success. Proper planning prevents poor progress or performance. (Try saying that fast a few times!) To be successful you will need to pencil out how you are going to begin your program. Define your goals and develop the foundation upon which the rest of your efforts will stand. Define some of the following: Who will be involved? Will there be a chain of authority and what will it be? What resources will be needed? How will you outline and set training goals? How long will it take to train a behavior and what steps will be needed to get it? How will you maintain consistency? How can you obtain and maintain clear communication between trainers? How will you monitor the progress and performance of the animals? Will this training program work in your current system or routine? What records will you need to keep? How can you design your training records to be efficient and accurate between subjective opinions? How will you gain additional skills? Additional Comments Most people will take about 30 days of consistent application in training to begin to drop old habits and acquire the skills needed for training. Remember to teach the animals the basics and then slowly teach simple behaviors so that they understand the process. Once they get it you can move forward pretty quickly. Good luck! Resources of Interest Chance, P. 1998. Learning and behavior. Brooks/Cole Publishing. Kazdin, A.E. 1994. Behavior modification in applied settings. Brooks/Cole Publishing. Mazur, James. 1997. Learning and behavior. Prentice Hall. Pryor, K. 1999. Don’t shoot the dog! Bantam Books. Rameriz, Ken. 2000. Animal Training: Successful animal management through positive reinforcement. Shedd Aquarium Press. Chicago, IL. (1-888-Sea Stuff) (About the Author: Since 1978, ARKANIMALS.COM Director, Diana Guerrero has worked professionally in a variety of animal facilities. Attending and completing courses in both animal management and training from institutions both here in the United States and Europe, she has been affiliated with some of the best organizations. She is an alumni of The Moorpark College Exotic Animal Training & Management Program, The Gentle Jungle Animal Affection Training School, The International Training Centre at the Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust, and special program extensions with Marwell Zoological Park and Kent University. Guerrero started her career in the marine mammal field working as a naturalist, and subsequently became involved with terrestrial animals in zoos and other facilities. Guerrero writes a variety of animal-related columns, including the popular series. Unusual Animal Careers and does seminars nationally. Watch for two of her book projects in the summers of 1999 and 2000! Questions for ABCs should be submitted to Diana directly via e-mail:> arkabc@arkanimals.com< or via regular mail to ARKANIMALS.COM, P.O. Box 1154, Escondido, CA 92033 USA.) 292 Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 7, 2000 New & Renewing AAZK Professional, Institutional, and Contributing Members New Professional Members Nicole M. Petersen and Kim Danglo- Kezer, Zoo New England (MA); Trevor Peck, Ross Park Zoo (NY); Cyndi Carestio, Buffalo Zoo (NY); Stephanie Richenberg, Elmwood Park Zoo (PA); Jennifer Dopkowski, Baltimore Zoo (MD); Gail Milliken, Santa Fe Teaching Zoo (FL); Alison Verneuil, Palm Beach Zoo (FL); Amber N. Zito, The Primate Conservancy (FL); Matthew Goeben, Central Florida Zoological Park (FL); Matthew Lanier, Birmingham Zoo (AL); Maya Perry, Belle Isle Zoo (MI); Lisa Robinson- LaBarge, Saginaw Children’s Zoo (MI); Susanne Guthrie, Audubon Zoological Park & Botanical Gardens (LA); Kristy Wicker, Little River Zoo (OK); Matt Schmit and Amanda E. Daly, Houston Zoo (TX); Anne E. Thomas, San Antonio Zoo (TX); Billy Harvey, Runin’ W Wildlife Center (AZ); Gale Ferrick, Reid Park Zoo (AZ); Ingrid Hedman, Alameda Park Zoo (NM); Allyson Brooks, Sierra Endangered Cat Haven (CA); Ann Goody, Three Ring Ranch, Inc., (HI); and Peter Klose, Orono, Ontari, Canada. Renewing Contributing Member John Bretton San Diego Zoo San Diego, CA ADT and EDT Forms Available from Administrative Offices Institutions are reminded that the Animal Data Transfer Forms (ADT) and the Enrichment Data Transfer Forms (EDT) are available gratis to the zoological community as a professional courtesy of AAZK, Inc. The ADTForm provides vital information on an animal’s medical, dietary and reproductive history to the receiving institution’s staff and veterinarian. The EDTForm was designed to complement the ADTForm, and would provide information on the animal’s enrichment history, techniques used with the animal for enrichment, etc. The ADT Form is underwritten by the Columbus Zoological Gardens (Powell, OH), and the new EDTForm was underwritten this year by the Arizona- Sonora Desert Museum (Tucson, AZ). We encourage all institutions to utilize these forms whenever an animal is shipped. To obtain forms, contact AAZK Administrative Offices at 3601 S.W. 29th St., Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614; or call 1-800-242-4519 (U.S.) or 1-800-468- 1966 (Canada); or fax (785) 273-1980. MOVINO ? Please let us know when you change your address!! It costs AAZK 99^ every time an AKF is returned because of an incorrect address. Call 1-800-242-4519 (U.S. ) or 1-800-468-1966 (Canada) to report your new address. THANKS !! Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 7, 2000 293 ^ £ ;ri c r / O jy ^ A ^ues^oiaidABSHrFom/ortktoo Frokss/om/oiCr/sisflaia^eMt '^y William K. Baker, Jr., Zoo Curator ^rank Buck Zoo, Gainesville, TX Question ^at technical aspects should you look for in a cat management facility? comments 'he management of felids in captivity is one of the most challenging and dangerous ctivities in the zoological profession. For me, it’s what this is all about, (yes, I like cats), 'he best way to look at this is to look at the situation from two different angles. One, ^hat should you be looking for in regards to the general facility layout. Two, what matures should be looking for in the nighthouse. reneral Facility Features s the facility developed for keeper, service vehicle, and heavy equipment access? In ther words, did the designer provide for long-term access to the exhibit itself, otherwise he staff would have serious problems getting into the exhibit area for landscaping and epairs? Never design an exhibit that isn’t “keeper friendly”. s the landscaping just an accent or has it taken over the perimeter of the area to the )oint of no return. Sure, you want the “regional look”, but can you observe the cats on .‘xhibit without reaching for your machete to hack a path to the New World. It’s important o have the capability to observe your cats for behavioral cues during the introduction )rocess or that might be leading indicators of health problems. Does the exhibit area have adequate security to prevent public interaction with the :ats? Secondary guardrails should be strong enough to prevent trespass and distant irom primary containment caging. “Danger rails” can still be found in some zoo’s that lave high volume traffic or consistent public problems. Holly bushes, palmettos, and :actus are nature’s version of razor wire and do a great job of keeping the public where they belong. Has any thought been given to night security? Night lighting should provide adequate light should the need arise. If the exhibit is expansive there should be enough security lights to enable the staff to see the entire yard at a glance, especially in an emergency. Also, did the contractor have enough snap to put electric eyes on key lights? Exhibit designers seem to have real problems understanding drainage surrounding an exhibit. All too often the exhibit is flooded from the public areas during heavy rains. Always direct water flow away from the exhibit into storm drains and if at all possible. 294 Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 7, 2000 put the exhibit on slightly higher ground. Nighthouse Features The first item that should be noted is whether or not the entry has double containment. This “airlock system” is often times the only thing between the cat and freedom. Also, do the doors swing inward and close backwards? There is nothing more embarrassing than having the animal out of primary containment, pushing the outer doors open, and then going for a walk. Also, is the view window up at the top of the door? You know what Tm talking about. There’s this little 5"x5" window that is six feet off the ground and you are supposed to see the keeper corridor and what’s waiting at the door! Consider replacing this type of window with a 6x36" vertical window, (reinforced glass) so that you can really see what is on the other side of the door. Are the internal corridors laid out so that you can effectively see end to end? Designers love putting in twisting corridors at right angles. A good nighthouse doesn’t have blind spots. If there are blind spots leading to holding areas, have they been retrofitted with mirrors so you can see the cat before he can see you? Do the floor, corridor, and exhibit drains really work? Masonry contractors are notorious for making up their own mind on what type of slope and brush finish your floors get. Don’t forget drain size. I can’t count how many nighthouses I have seen that have 1" lines instead of 3 or 6" lines to handle water volume. Is the guillotine door system an afterthought? Does it stick if you look at it wrong or do the pulleys seem like a private joke that the designer played on you? The coolest design I have seen to date is produced by Comers Limited. They utilize stainless steel doors in a corrosion ffee-ff ame. The door actually rides on two coated rails that keep the fall and lift even. The cable rides inside conduit that is connected by internal pulleys that prevent the cable from binding or jumping. Also, as a side note, don’t forget to make sure that the conduit or cable system you are using is routed where keepers can visually inspect it. Contractors appreciate a good design when they have to make repairs. Ventilation. Is your nighthouse a sauna? Ventilator fans can reduce ambient heat. Don’t forget air conditioning, heat, and circulating fans. In high humidity areas think about adding an in-line dehumidifier to your air conditioner. If you are uncomfortable, chances are the cats are too. Finally, has thought been giving to crisis management? The following equipment should be handy if needed: Fire extinguishers (C02 and ABC), smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, pepper spray canisters, back-up emergency lighting, back-up power for hot wires (battery or generator), restraint cages, shields, and even firearms. Also, is the keeper work area, kitchen, or bathroom centralized? This way if something does go wrong, there is a safe, secure, integrated area. Ideally, this area should be equipped with telephone, back-up radio, and serious containment such as reinforced doors or a viewing window of reinforced glass or heavy Lexan® construction. Conclusion Most of the points that were just covered can be resolved during the design phase. It’s imperative that the direct animal managers be in on the final design phase. This means let the Zookeepers see the blueprints! They are the ones who have to live with the designers vision, good, bad, or otherwise. Building an exhibit then telling the staff that they will have to live with a few oversights is just plain ridiculous. There is no excuse for mistakes. Development of a cat exhibit takes six months to a year, construction six months Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 7, 2000 295 to two years, and at any point the situation can be addressed. Even after the job IS underway, change orders can be made, (for a fee). Still, there is definitely room to maneuver here. N ext Month: Are there any special precautions that should be considered before going into the field, especially in other countries? 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/AKF. (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 experiences and training as a Rescue Diver, Hunter Safety Instructor, NRA Firearms Instructor, and Red Cross CPR / First Aid Instructor.) QRbbHlines sterns of interest Cloning Endangered Species - Reuters News Service has reported that Australian scientists are working in two separate programs to clone endangered and even extinct species. One project is using skin samples to try and clone an endangered northern hairy-nosed wombat of which only 80 remain in the wild. Another experiment wants to use “high-quality DNA” from a preserved 1866 specimen of a Tasmanian tiger pup in a long shot effort to clone the species of marsupial wolf “believed to have died out in 1936.” GREENlines Issue ^1129 5116100 A Manatee A Day Dying! - An Associated Press report says that an average, “one manatee a day is d3dng in Florida waters”. At this rate 10% of the estimated 2,200 manatee’s in Florida will be wiped out by the end of the summer. Between January and April, 124 manatees died with half of the mortality due to human activity, mostly run over by boaters “who ignore speed zones.” According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission the problem is not managing manatees but people, “endangered species can’t sustain that kind of loss.” GREENlines Issue #1124 5/5/00 Primate Extinction Conservationist’s “Sad Illusion” - Scientists are “astonished and angry” that a cherished “conservation triumph,” the belief that “no primate became extinct in the 20th century,” is quickly becoming a “sad illusion”. The Associated Press report estimates say that “10% of the world’s 608 primate species” are critically imperiled and another 10% will disappear without “vigorous protection.” Scientists now aren’t even sure if some species like Miss Waldron’s colobus monkey or the golden-headed langur “still exist.” As conservationists met in Chicago “to devise emergency strategies” some sadly admitted “It’s all been happening at a time when we knew better.” GREENlines Issue #1127 5/16/00 296 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7, 2000 as Colop Discrimination Match-To-Sample Tasks Behavioral Enrichment for a Yucatan Miniature Piq By Tina K. Whitney, Frank Brader, Melissa A. Horlock Brookfield Zoo, Children’s Zoo Brookfield, Illinois 60513 Objectives Children's Zoo staff had previously provided behavioral enrichment for resident swine by training a scent discrimination task in which a metal or leather scent marked article was retrieved from an unmarked grouping. Expecting the arrival of a male Yucatan miniature pig (Sus scrofa domestica), Squiggy we decided to broaden our enrichment options. The scent discrimination training plan was modified for a color discrimination match-to-sample task in which an article corresponding in color to a presented flash card could be retrieved from a set of articles different in color. Our objectives were to determine if Squiggy could discriminate amongst yellow, red, and blue in a three-fold choice situation and to evaluate color discrimination match-to-sample tasks as long-term behavioral enrichment for suidae. Our goal for this paper is to discuss our methods and results, in the hope that other institutions will replicate this project. Replication will enable us to draw more meaningful conclusions about the value of these tasks as behavioral enrichment and about the learning abilities of swine. Methods The modified training plan for the color discrimination match-to-sample tasks was based on positive reinforcement techniques and consisted of the following steps: (1) socialization, (2) bridging stimulus establishment, (3) article retrieval, (4) visual stimulus (flash card color) introduction, and (5) correct/incorrect concept. First, Squiggy was socialized through hand feeding, human contact, and exposure to other Children's Zoo species. During the socialization process, staff established a bridging stimulus. The word ‘"good" was associated with primary and secondary reinforcers (food, physical, and verbal praise). The food used as reinforcement was in addition to Squiggy’s daily-recommended diet, which eliminated food deprivation as a motivating factor in subsequent tasks. After establishing the bridging stimulus, the article retrieval behavior was shaped. The initial reinforcement criterion required Squiggy to touch the article with his snout. The reinforcement criteria advanced incrementally, with completion of the retrieval behavior occurring when Squiggy left the handler on the verbal cue “fetch”, retrieved the article from the pre-set location, and returned it to within ten centimeters of the handler. To introduce the visual stimulus, we placed one article on a white board. A flash card corresponding in color to that one article was displayed at snout level. On the verbal cue “find it”, Squiggy was required to retrieve the matching article for reinforcement. The final step of the training plan was to shape the correct/incorrect concept. We eliminated olfaction as a discriminatory factor, by scent marking the articles by both handler and pig (Bustad and McClellan, 1966; Renner et. al., 1999). Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 7, 2000 297 Although our goal was to evaluate a three-fold choice situation, we initially focused on discriminations between two choices to make the correct/incorrect concept easier for Squiggy to assimilate. To facilitate learning, we initially used an errorless approach by securing the incorrect article to the board by a small-gauge wire and pre-drilled holes. We varied the positions that both articles occupied, adjusting placement order based on Squiggy’s success with the preceeding positional arrangements. If Squiggy repeatedly had difficulty retrieving the correct response when the articles were in a specified arrangement, we would shape the retrieval by moving the article increasingly closer to the desired position in each subsequent trial. We also attempted to shape a correct response by offering the bridging stimulus as Squiggy turned or looked towards the correct article. As correct responses increased, we proceeded to bridge later and later in the retrieval process. We placed reinforcement on a continuous schedule to provide necessary feedback (Pryor, 1985). If the secured (incorrect) article was touched or mouthed the trial received a negative score and was not reinforced. If the correct article was retrieved without contact with the secured (incorrect) one, that trial was scored as a positive and reinforced. As the number of correct responses increased, the incorrect article was no longer secured. With both articles unsecured, the handler reinforced Squiggy when he returned the correct one. We occasionally utilized the errorless method when performance dropped in an effort to refocus Squiggy on the task. If this did not refocus him, the training session was interrupted for five to ten minutes, by returning Squiggy to his enclosure. After completing several trials, we modified the behavior, having Squiggy station and target on the flash card (K. Lucas, personal communication). These modifications insured that Squiggy recognized the cue (flash card color) needed to retrieve the correct response (article). In an effort to avoid creating a positional bias, we began determining article placement order prior to the start of each training session (K. Lucas, personal communication). We occasionally modified the order by adding retrieves for positional arrangements, which were difficult for Squiggy to assimilate. We varied the number of trials to prevent boredom and learned helplessness (Griebel and Schmid, 1996) Figure 1: An illustration of the apparatus, along with handler Jeanne Brown and Squiggy, Yucatan miniature pig. ( © Chicago Zoological Society Audiovisual Services. Photo by Jim Schulz) 298 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7, 2000 Results In Experiment One, we presented discriminations between yellow and red in a left/right position arrangement. Squiggy met the learned behavior criterion (80% correct for five consecutive trials) for both colors. From this, we concluded that he could discriminate between red and yellow (Whitney et al., submitted). We designed Experiment Two as a three-fold choice situation with a correct response occupying one position and incorrect responses occupying the remaining two. We focused on discriminations between yellow and red to introduce one new variable: a third matching stimulus. To make this an easier task for Squiggy to assimilate, the initial trials focused on the stronger of the two colors (red) from Experiment One. In Experiment Two, Squiggy met the learned behavior criterion (66% correct for five consecutive trials) for red, but failed for yellow (Whitney et al., submitted.) We intended to introduce blue in a three-fold choice situation in Experiment Three after successfully introducing the third match stimuli in Experiment Two. However, failure to meet the learned behavior criterion for yellow in Experiment Two led us to design an experiment with two-fold choice situations. We presented discriminations between red and blue, and yellow and blue, with red and yellow as the correct responses, respectively. Squiggy met the learned behavior criterion (80% correct for five consecutive trials) for both red and yellow in Experiment Three. We concluded that he was able to discriminate between red and blue and yellow and blue (Whitney et al., submitted). Recently, we initiated the task specified in our objectives: discriminations amongst yellow, red, and blue in a three-fold choice situation. We defined successful enrichment as the subject willingly participating in a task, which provided mental stimulation. Mental stimulation was measured by the ability of the subject to meet the learned behavior criteria. Willingness to participate was demonstrated with continued performance, despite several high failure rate trials (example: Experiment Two - yellow). With willing participation demonstrated and all but one of the learned behavior criteria met, we concluded that these three tasks did serve as successful enrichment for Squiggy (Whitney et al., submitted). Discussion Based on what we learned during this series of experiments, we would recommend several modifications to others who undertake training these tasks. First, incorporate stationing and targeting from the onset. These improved Squiggy's ability to successfully complete the color discrimination match-to-sample tasks. Second, do not consistently focus on the stronger color as the correct response. Performance could have been improved for yellow in Experiment Two had we not chosen to initially focus on red, possibly eliminating the need to return to two-fold choice situations in Experiment Three. Third, do not attempt to shape the correct/incorrect portion of the training plan by bridging prior to choice completion. Squiggy refused to meet the reinforcement criterion until the bridging stimulus was presented. He would return to the board and switch articles if the bridge was not offered prior to him returning the article to within ten centimeters of the handler. To correct this, we abandoned this shaping method and only offered the bridging stimulus when the response met the established reinforcement criterion. This increased the time it took to successfully complete the tasks, but reassured us that the discriminations were made based on the visual, not bridging, stimulus. Fourth, initially shape the desired position arrangements and modify the placement order if several incorrect responses are noted for a configuration. Repetitive incorrect responses from certain positional configurations did not extinguish themselves in the absence of reinforcement. Once success from all configurations is noted, abandon shaping and determine a random placement order prior to the training sessions. The initial shaping and later random Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7, 2000 299 placement order should allow for success from all configurations and eliminate the possibility of creating a positional bias. We encourage other institutions to repeat this study to obtain several benefits. First, color discrimination match-to-sample tasks may offer keepers a unique approach to providing behavioral enrichment for the suidae species in their care. These types of tasks have long-term applicability in that once the groundwork is in place, the stimuli in the match and/or sample subgroups can be modified. This allows an animal to utilize a previously learned skill, while still being challenged through the addition of a new variable. Second, the data we collect allows us to draw conclusions about the usefulness of match-to-sample tasks as behavioral enrichment for not only suidae, but other species. The training plan for match-to-sample tasks described here could be modified for use with some marine mammal, primate, and psitticine species. Finally, allowing guests to watch these sessions provides an excellent forum for discussions on how we care for the mental well-being of the animals. Our conversations with guests have led to discussions on the relationships amongst the zoo’s behavioral enrichment program, operant conditioning, and natural history. We are able to describe how the natural history of a species influences the type of enrichment chosen and how operant conditioning is used to implement the project in a positive manner. If anyone has any questions or is interested in collecting data, please call Tina Whitney at (708) 485-0263 x 462 or e-mail me at TIWHITNE@BrookfieldZoo.org. References Bustad, L. K.; McClellan, R. O. Swine In Biomedical Research. Seattle, Frayn Printing Co., 1966. Griebel, U.; Schmid A. Color vision in the California Sea lion (Zalophus californius). Vision Research 32:477-482, 1992. Griebel, U.; Schmid, A. Color vision in the manatee {Trichechus manatus). Vision Research 36:2747-2757, 1996. Pryor, K. Don’t Shoot The Dog! The New Art of Teaching and Training. Bantam Books, 1985. Renner, M.J.; Plebani, J. G.; Kelly, A. L.; Cupples, C. T; Stabinski, J.; Janiszewski, J. R. Psychophysics for amateurs: visual discrimination problems as environ mental enrichment for polar bears (Ursus maritimus). Presented at the annual meeting of the Animal Behavior Society, Lewisburg, PA, 1999. Rodgers, T. A.; Iwata, B. A. An analysis of error-correction procedures during discrimination training. Journal of Applied Behavioral Analysis 24:775-781, 1991. Whitney, T. K.; Brader, F; Horlock, M. A; Performance of a Yucatan miniature pig in a color discrimination match-to-sample task. ZOO BIOLOGY, submitted. © (copyright symbol) 2000 Chicago Zoological Society. Brookfield Zoo is owned by the Forest Preserve District of Cook County and managed by the Chicago Zoological Society. 300 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7, 2000 Cegislative Update Compiled by Georgann Johnston Legislative Advisor Sacramento, CA Chimpanzee Orphanage Wins U.N. Award The Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage, located along the Kafue River in central Zambia, has been honored by the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) by being named to the Global 500 Roll of Honor for the Year 2000, The Orphanage has been in existence for 17 years, providing a safe residence for approximately 70 chimpanzees. Most of the resident animals are rescued from poachers or confiscated from zoos and circuses that are unable or unwilling to provide the primates with appropriate care. Upon arriving at Chimfunshi, each animal undergoes a thorough physical examination and is nursed back to health (if necessary) while in quarantine. Once healthy, new residents are then integrated into “family groups’" in large free-range enclosures. In April 2000, the Orphanage opened two new 500-acre enclosures for chimps; the largest area ever set aside for captive primates. The UNEP Global 500 Roll of Honour was created in 1987 to recognize individuals and organizations for outstanding achievement in the protection and improvement of the environment. Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage was initially founded by David and Sheila Siddle in 1983 with a single chimp in need of a permanent home - having been taken from the wild. The family of primates continued to grow over the years, with the intent of providing a permanent home to primates that would not otherwise have long to live in a captive setting and which were not equipped to be released back into the wild. The Executive Director of UNEP Klaus Toepfer praised the Siddles and the Chimfunshi Orphanage, saying: “These silent heroes are members of a broad and growing environmental movement that is flourishing around the world. They have taken the path that most of us hesitate to take for want of time or caring. In honoring the Global 500 laureates, UNEP hopes that others will be inspired by their extraordinary deeds.” Source: WildNet Africa Media Release Service 4 June 2000 Approval of New 5-Point Policy to Implement Habitat Conservation Plans The US. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) have developed a “5-Point Habitat Conservation Plan Process” in accordance with the U.S. Endangered Species Act (ESA). In essence, the ESA provides authority for the “taking” of certain protected (endangered) plants or animals located on privately owned land. The “Habitat Conservation Plan” is the means by which an individual or company owning property upon which an endangered species is found can make use of the property without significantly harming the species. A typical Habitat Conservation Plan is similar to an environmental impact report but contains guidelines or rules for the type and extent of activity that can take place on the land which will mitigate or minimize harm to the species in question. Said Plan must be submitted to the USFWS and approved before the landowner can make use of his property and over the years, landowners have complained that no clear guidelines existed for developing an HCP that will be approved by the federal agency Now, the 5-Point Policy issued by the USFWS and the NMFS is designed to address that complaint and to streamline the process so that landowners will be able to put their Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 7, 2000 301 property to use more quickly - avoiding a long, drawn-out permitting process. The Policy provides guidance in the following areas: establishment of biological goals and objectives, adaptive management, monitoring, public participation, and duration of incidental take permits granted as part of the HCP process. All future HPCs must state biological goals and objectives to provide clear guidance for both the applicant and the Service. The new policy also requires use of adaptive management in an HPC if significant biological uncertainty exists for covered species when the plan is approved. An “adaptive management strategy” would include a range of possible adjustments and the circumstances under which they would go into effect. For example, a change in the terrain of a HPC-covered land (e.g. by flood or earthquake) might generate a reason to change the way in which the property is managed for the benefit of both the endangered species thereon and the landowner. Again, a clear statement of objectives for the HPC is required now - where it was not explicitly required in the past - so that both ongoing monitoring and necessary or appropriate adjustments may be made to meet said goals. One of the factors of particular interest to conservationists, wildlife biologists and ecologists is the fact that the 5-Point Plan establishes limits on the duration of “incidental take” permits (the number/kind of endangered or threatened species allowed to be displaced or destroyed while fulfilling the proposed alternative use of the property). Finally, the new 5-Point HPC Plan calls for a lengthened public-comment period - increasing the time for feedback from 30 days to as much as 90 days depending on the circumstances. The Service reports that all parties involved in reviewing the new 5- Point program agree that the longer the time period for public comment the more likely that all HCPs will be more thoroughly studied and evaluated. Detailed information about the new 5-Point HPC Plan can be found in the 1 June 2000 issue of the Federal Register. Source: USFWS Press Release 1 June 2000 National Wildlife Refuge System Subject of New Planning Policy The United States owns and operates 520 National Wildlife Refuges covering over 93 million acres of land. In 1997 Congress recognized that there was no organized scheme or plan for managing the various refuges and, in response to that fact, passed the Wildlife Refuge Improvement Act. Part of that Act requires that a complete “Comprehensive Conservation Plan” (CCP) be developed for each and every refuge by the year 2012. Supervision of the refuges falls to the USFWS working with individual refuge managers and, on occasion, state and local authorities. The CCPs will identify overearching wildlife; public use and management needs of the various refuges scattered throughout the 50 states. The goal is to have the Plans describe desired future conditions for individual refuges and provide long-term guidance and management direction to see that those conditions are achieved. Presently, 69 refuges are undergoing evaluation for the creation of a CCP and another 32 are scheduled for completion by the end of the year 2000. As with other programs such as the Habitat Conservation Plans discussed above, the USFWS and other federal and state agencies are looking for active public involvement during the preparation and revision of the CCPs, including coordination with other federal agencies, state fish, wildlife and other conservation agencies. Tribal and local governments, adjacent landowners, and interested members of the public. The first National Wildlife Refuge was created in 1803 - so we are just two years away from the centennial celebration of this leader in conservation of America’s natural heritage. An “online almanac” of refuge information, including the history of the system, a timeline of recent events, and a wide variety of background information is available at http://refugesl00.fws.gov. Source: USFWS Press Release 2 June 2000 302 Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 7, 2000 Jefferson Proving Ground to be Turned into New National Refuge The U.S. Army’s Jefferson Proving Ground, a 51,000-acre military facility located in Indiana, will be turned into the newest National Wildlife Refuge pursuant to an agreement between the Army, the Air Force, and the USFWS. The refuge - to be named Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge - will come into existence under a 25-year real estate permit granted to the USFWS by the Army The Air Force will still continue to be able to use a portion of the base for a bombing range but will be limited to less destructive munitions and laser energy sources. The Jefferson Proving Ground was primarily used as a facility to test munitions and to train Army personnel in combat. Now, 50,000 acres will be available to the public for hunting, fishing and escorted tours beginning in the late summer of 2000. The Big Oaks Refuge is made up of widely diverse ecosystems including prairie grasslands and mature woodlands. While “controlled fires” were used by the Army to keep the grasslands open for ordinance testing, the wooded areas were allowed to grow into mature forests with virtually no human intervention. The Big Oaks Refuge provides a home for a variety of birds and mammals including the endangered Indiana bat and the Henslow’s sparrow. Unfortunately, the land being made available to the USFWS is contaminated with unexploded ordnance as well as localized amounts of depleted uranium, making much of it unsuitable for public use or development. The agreement between the USFWS and the Army does provide that the USFWS can undertake whatever actions are necessary to preserve and develop the area to increase its availability to use by citizens. At this point, however, no specific budget request has been made by the USFWS for fiscal year 2001 to clean up any area of the Big Oak Refuge. Source: USFWS Press Release 24 May 2000 Retired Research Chimpanzee Care Act Pending in Congress The former Postresearch Chimpanzee Care Act, which failed to make its way through the last session of the U.S. Congress, has been reintroduced. Renamed the Chimpanzee Health Improvement, Maintenance and Protection Act (CHIMP Act - H.R. 3514), the legislation was introduced in November 1999 and has at least 52 co-sponsors in the House of Representatives. If passed into law, the CHIMP Act would establish a national sanctuary for surplus chimpanzees that have been used in government sponsored research. Many of the animals that would derive benefits from the Act are those used in biomedical research sponsored by the National Institutes of Health, the Centers for Disease Control, and other federal agencies. Some of the chimps are housed at federal facilities while others are kept at privately owned and operated labs, such as the Coulston Foundation. Many of the chimps are captive-bred and some have spent as long as 25 to 30 years in research facilities, undergoing one experimental trial after another. The legislation’s author. Congressman Jim Greenwood (R-PA) reports that the sanctuary is necessary for a number of reasons. One rationale is the fact that the Food and Drug Administration (which supervises many of the clinical trials) has found multiple violations of its “Good Laboratory Practice Regulations” by companies in possession of these chimpanzees and the FDA deems it necessary to remove the animals from their place in research and find an alternative way for them to live out their lives. Source: Animal Action Report, published by the National Anti-Vivisection Society, Spring 2000 Koala Added to U.S. Endangered Species List The USFWS has decided to add the koala, a bear-like, tree-dwelling mammal indigenous to Australia, as threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. As with many other Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 7, 2000 303 endangered and threatened species, habitat destruction is the primary threat to the survival of koalas in the wild, along with human encroachment, domestic dogs, and diseases introduced by non-native species. While no koalas are found in the wild in the United States, the USFWS justifies the listing on the grounds that it will increase general public awareness about koalas specifically and endangered species in general. “Americans are captivated by koalas. However, because our familiarity comes from television, magazines and zoos, most of us have never seen wild koalas and would be surprised to learn that, just like many of our own species, their future is in jeopardy because of habitat destruction.” said Jamie Clark, Director of the USFWS. Additionally, listing a species as threatened or endangered under the ESA results in the prohibition of US. import, export, or interstate or foreign commerce by anyone subject to US. law except under permits issued in advance by the Service. Moreover, listing will help the US. provide assistance to Australia in conservation programs for koalas. Koalas live in and eat the leaves of eucalyptus trees that were once abundant in Australia. Now, due to logging, agriculture and urbanization, nearly two-thirds of the eucalyptus forests no longer exist. Current estimates of koala populations vary from as little as 40,000 to as many as 400,000. Regardless, these numbers are far less than the millions of these “cuddly bears” that were found throughout Australia as late as the 1940s. Source: USFWS Press Release 10 May 2000 Don’t miss -this opportunity - the Africa Trip could fill any time. Reserve your place on the first AAZK African Safari NOW I w This specially designed safari depa New York November 4, 2000 All-inclusive cost: % from A/ew York is $3145.00 mem"bers^ and $3195.00 for non - members. contact: AAZK, Inc. National Office 3601 S.W. 29th Street, Suite 133 Topeka, Kansas 66614 1-800-242-4519 (USA) 1 -800-468-1 966 (CANADA) 304 Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 7, 2000 Chapter ^ews fiotes Seneca Park Zoo AAZK Chapter AAZK members at Monroe County’s Seneca Park Zoo in Rochester, NY have formed a new Chapter. Officers are: President Kara Masaschi Vice President Sue DeFalco Secretary..... Tracy Zlotkus Treasurer..... Tina Fess Chapter Liaison Amy Cutting Keepers are busy planning our first major fundraiser, our fourth annual Bowling for Rhinos event and our second annual Enrichment Garage Sale. Seneca Park keepers have raised over $7000.00 through the previous three BRF events. We earned over $1200.00 in last year’s garage sale which was used exclusively to purchase enrichment items for the Zoo’s animals. Members are looking forward to even bigger and better events with the institutional support becoming an AAZK Chapter provides. —Amy Cutting, Chapter Liaison Portland Chapter AZK Elections were held at our last meeting of 1999. The new officers are: President Brett Sellers Vice President Anna Michel Treasurer..... Michael Illig Secretary..... Jan McCoy Chapter Liaison Michelle Schireman Our Chapter held Bowling for Rhinos on March 25, 2000. Once again it was a very successful fundraiser. Our total for this year is $11,700.00, making our running total for the ten years of BFR well over $118,000.00! Our thanks to everyone who volunteered, bowled, donated prizes, sponsored others or bought raffle tickets! Together we hope to really make a difference for this incredible animal! So far this year the Portland Chapter has donated $2,000.00 to the AAZK Endowment Fund. In addition we have donated funds to support the following conservation projects: Wolf Hollow Wildlife Rehabilitation Center on San Juan Island, WA and The Rodriguez Fruit Bat Education Project on Mauritius Island. — Michelle Schireman, Chapter Liaison Rocky Mountain AZK Chapter The Rocky Mountain AAZK Chapter had a successful 1999. Our members have been busy fundraising and furthering wildlife education. We are proud to have donated money to such conservation organizations as the Audubon Shorebird Society, Primarily Primates, and to Ngare Sergoi. The Chapter also made contributions to the 1999 Portland AAZK Conference and the AAZK Enrichment Notebook. Our keepers have been furthering wildlife education by giving “keeper talks” to zoo members concerning the animals they work with, and conservation projects relating to them. One of the more successful fundraising events was a silent auction, with Dr. David Kenny, staff veterinarian for the Denver Zoo, as the guest speaker. Dr. Kenny gave an educational presentation about his continuing work with wild and captive breeding polar bears! We are looking forward to an even more successful 2000! Our officers for 2000 are: President Jan Collins Vice President Alex Saunders Treasurer..... Debbie Aden Secretary..... Mark Marciniak Chapter Liaison Travis Garrett — Travis Garrett, Chapter Liaison NOTE: If you are sending a copy of your Chapter logo to appear in Chapter News, DO NOT FAX - it will not turn out clear enough to reproduce. Also, if a new logo, please include name of designer and date adopted by your Chapter. Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 21, No. 7, 2000 305 Book Review Ratite Management, Medicine and Surgery Edited by Thomas N. Jully, Jr., and Simon M. Shane Kreiger Publishing Company, 1996 P.O. Box 9542, Melbourne, FL 32902-9542 www.krieger-publishing.com Review by John Krogmeier, Keeper Blank Park Zoo, Des Moines, lA Commercial production of large ratites in the United States during the past decade has focused attention on the need for reliable information concerning the health and reproduction needs of ostrich, emu and rhea. To help fulfill this need, the editors of Ratite Management, Medicine and Surgery have accumulated the knowledge and experience of over a dozen veterinary educators and practitioners involved with these birds. The first chapter provides a good introduction by giving an overview of the anatomical differences between the large ratites. The examination of anatomy could be a great-help for the veterinarian who has little experience with ratites. The digestive and reproductive systems are the primary focus and are discussed in great detail. Next, there is a very thorough description of ratites’ nutritional needs. While the guidelines in this chapter give enough information to formulate a complete diet, the author acknowledges that the small-scale ratite owner would be best served by purchasing a commercial diet from a reputable dealer. The chapters on restraint and handling of ostrich and emu can be especially useful, particularly to the inexperienced handler. The author emphasizes safety of the handlers, as well as the birds, and gives good hints for transporting them. Also discussed are suitable substrates and holding requirements. While probably only veterinarians and very interested managers will find the chapters on surgery, anesthesiology, and clinical hematology riveting, there is some great information within the text. Anyone who may assist in these procedures can find good advice on area preparations and restraint. The chapters on parasites and infectious diseases are very comprehensive and would be a wonderful reference for particular problems. Over 25 diseases are listed, along with their diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and post-mortem changes. Some diseases that have not yet appeared in the United States are also discussed. Even though ratite reproduction is not a high priority in zoos at the present time, the chapters on reproduction, hatchery management, and developmental problems would be of great value to those still interested in reproducing these birds. Two appendices at the end of the hatchery management chapters could be very useful. One lists common problems and probable causes associated with ostrich egg incubation. The other shows two psychometric charts used to control relative humidity in the setters and hatchers. This book has excellent photographs and illustrations supporting the text. Included are six pages of color photographs ranging from post-mortem examinations to developmental problems in young birds. I would recommend Ratite Management, Medicine and Surgery to anyone involved in the care and handling of large ratites. It’s a wonderful reference source for any zoo library. 306 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7, 2000 HMBNT ;t«rBehtvioral Enrichmcm nr'TT^'Si.T©^ Activity Manipulation J1 JIOJN 2> Occupational Husbandry Xv.ajib.#" By Gretchen Ziegler, Sequoia Park Zoo and Jan Roletto, Utah's Hogle Zoo Throughout the year, this column will continue to highlight graphics that educate visitors on enrichment practices, as well as great enrichment ideas being sent in. The column is pleased to share graphic ideas from Folsom City Zoo, Folsom City, CA. Look for images of their graphics in future columns. Eds. Using Graphics to Promote Enrichment submitted by Lee Houts and Jenn Greaves, Folsom City Zoo Folsom City Zoo, a five-acre facility in Northern California, exhibits primarily native wildlife. Many of the animals were injured, orphaned, or illegal ex-pets. All are non-releasable. Although the zoo serves as a sanctuary to animals that would otherwise be euthanized, our primary function is public education. With limited resources, we are challenged to come up with easy and inexpensive ways to educate our visitors about our Behavioral Enrichment Program, as well as enlisting their support and involvement. Our solution was to develop a library of reusable enrichment graphics that can be rotated regularly throughout the zoo. All enrichment graphics include the **logo developed by Jen Apa from Utah’s Hogle Zoo which cues the visitor about the type of information they are exposed to. We have two types of graphics. Daily activity boards alert visitors to special opportunities available that day, such as docent spot talks or carcass feedings. These graphics, posted at the front gate on easels, have a space to write the time and place of the event with a dry erase pen. Behavioral Enrichment Program boards describes elements of enrichment, how wild animals use it, what the zoo does for our captive animals, and how visitors can help. They may be found on any of the large information boards scattered throughout the zoo, or at our centralized kiosk. Accompanying “wish lists” (instruction sheets or approved item lists) are made available at our front gate. All enrichment graphics begin with the Behavioral Enrichment (B.E.) Committee deciding on a topic to highlight. Committee members then draft the text and begin collecting magazine photographs or taking pictures of zoo animals to illustrate its points. The text is finalized after comment and editing by the committee, the education coordinator, and our director. Once the text is approved, the photos that will be used are laminated. This increases Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7, 2000 307 their longevity and allows us to store and reuse them. The text is printed off the computer and arranged with the photos on cardboard panels (we receive the cardboard free from a local newspaper). Finally, the entire panel is laminated to weather-proof it and allow for easy storage. Once a graphic is posted, the accompanying “wish lists” are provided at the front gate. This system allows us to have 3-4 inexpensive enrichment graphics on view throughout the zoo at any given time. Graphics can be replaced monthly to allow repeat visitors to continually new information. With a growing library of graphics available, panels need only be repeated every 12-15 months. **The enrichment logo used at Utah’s Hogle Zoo, as well as other institutions, can be acquired by contacting Jan Roletto at coendu(§^uno.com, or (801) 582-1632 extension 742. You are invited to submit material for the Enrichment Options Column. This might include recipes, toys, puzzle feeders, olfactory enrichment ideas, etc. Drawings and photos of enrichments are encouraged. Send to: AKF ! Enrichment Options, 3601 S.W. 29th St, Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614. (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. Eds.) Visit the new AAZK Enrichment Website - www.enrich.org/aazk or to join the Enrichment Listserve by e-mailjackbell@humboldtl.com An archive of past postings can be viewed at www.caza.org/enrich. 308 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7, 2000 AAZK 2000: BEGIMMiriGAnEW MIELEMMIUM Columbus Zoological Gardens October 8 - 12, 2000 Powell, Ob io FINAL CALL FOR PAPERS & WORKSHOPS **DEADLINE EXTENDED TO 1 AUGUST 2000** This Years Conference theme: AAZK 2000: Beginning a New Millennium Suggested topics Keeper skills necessary to move into the future, conservation projects (both in situ and ex situ), expanding keeper roles — studbook keeper, visitor educator, etc., enrichment, training. Abstracts Must Include the Following Information: Name of presenter and co-authors, Zoo or Aquarium affiliation, position or title, title of paper or workshop, short bio of yourself (for introduction). Limit abstracts to one or two paragraphs. Abstracts must include in detail the significance of the topic to be presented along with the results, conclusions, or benefits of the work described. Poorly written abstracts or those not containing the proper submission information will be returned. Mail abstracts to the following individuals (one copy to each): Gretchen Bickert, Program Chair e-mail abstracts to: Columbus AAZK Chapter astral_owl@yahoo.com P. O. Box 1256 fax abstracts to: (614) 645-3564 Powell,OH 43065 Jeff Phillips, National Program Chair 136 Harpersfield St. Davenport, FL 33837 e-mail abstracts to: jeff_phillips@worldnet.att.net fax abstracts to: (407) 939-6391 AAZK 2000: BEGINNING A NEW MILLENNIUM COLUMBUS, OH 9—12 OCTOBER 2000 NAME POSITION ADDRESS CITY STATE/PROVINCE ZIP INSTITUTION PHONE EMAIL ADDRESS SPECIAL MEAL REQUIREMENTS REGISTRATION FEES REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS 1 Sept. ! AAZK MEMBER *$135 AAZK MEMBER’S SPOUSE *$135 NON MEMBER *$185 LATE FEE (AFTER 1 Sept.) $ 25 DAILY RATES SUN 8 OCT (ICEBREAKER) $ 25 MON. 9 OCT (Papers, buffet breakfast, breaks) $ 35 TUES 10 OCT (Papers, breaks, auction dessert) $ 35 WED 11 OCT (ZOO DAY (lunch) $ 35 THURS 12 OCT (Papers, breaks, lunch) $ 35 THURS 12 OCT (BANQUET) $ 20 Pre conf (see detail at right) $ 45 Post conf to The Wilds (see detail at right) $ 30 Post conf to The Wilds &The Hocking Hills $175 TOTAL FEE ENCLOSED Please make checks payable (in U S. funds) to: AAZK 2000 Conference ® ®Fee includes $35 contributuion to AAZK National but does not include the cost of Conference Proceedings® • I wish to pay by credit card (circle one) Visa MasterCard Discover Card # - - - Exp. Date Name as it appears on card (please print) T-SHIRT (please indicate size) Med Large X large XX Large Are you bringing an Auction item? Yes No Send Registration Form and all fees to: AAZK 2000 Registration, Columbus AAZK Chapter, P.O. Box 1256, Powell, OH 43065 PPE AMD POST CCMFEPEMCE TPIPS PRE-CONFERENCE TRIP CLEVELAND ZOO AND SURROUNDING AREA - Friday, 7 October Overnight trip to the Cleveland area. The day will be spent at the Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame, Great Lake Science Center and the Omnimax Theater. Spend your evening dining on your own in the Flats area of Cleveland. Delegates will then spend the night in the zoo’s Wilderness Cabin. Saturday will be spent touring the zoo. Cost includes: Friday breakfast, overnight lodging, Saturday breakfast, lunch and transportation to and from Cleveland. COST $45.00 - special thanks to Cleveland Zoo and AAZK Chapter for sponsoring most of this trip! POST-CONFERENCE TRIPS THE WILDS— Friday, 13 October Day trip to The Wilds. The Wilds is located in Cumberland, OH and is North America’s largest conservation facility. The tour will include open range view of wildlife from around the world. The trip cost includes transportation, light breakfast, lunch, tour of the Wilds and afternoon snack. Return to Columbus same day. This trip is limited to 45 people. COST$30.00 THE WILDS & HOCKING HILLS Depart from the Wilds to the Hocking Hills. Includes transportation, dinner, overnight lodging Friday and Saturday, meals on Saturday and breakfast on Sunday. Lodging is at the Woodland Suites at Old Man’s Cave Chalets. Each Woodland Suite overlooks the forest, has a private hot tub, microwave, small refrigerator, stove top burner and outdoor grill. Each suite sleeps four people. October is an awesome time for hiking and for observing the changing colors. This is truly one of the prettiest areas of Ohio. Return to Columbus Sunday afternoon. This trip is limited to 25 people. COST$175.00 HOTEL IMFORMATIOM The official conference hotel is the Adams Mark Columbus. The daily rate for a single or double is $99.00. Rate for a triple is $114.00, and rate for a quad is $129.00. Reservations may be made by calling 1-800-444- AD AM. The discounted rate IS ONLY AVAILABLE UNTIL 1 SEPT. ! Mention reference code AAV 007 to get discounted rate. You may check the conference website for information on additional hotels New Conference web site. Http://aazk2000.homestead.com AIRLIME IMFORMATIOM The official conference airline is America West. Discounts vary from 5% to 10% depending on how early you make your reservation. Reservations may be made by calling 1-800-548-7575, group code 6363 SROMSORS MEEDED! ! !! ! Many exciting sponsorship opportimities are available! Any amount your chapter would like to donate would be wonderful. We need sponsors for the following: Conference breaks, hospitality suite evenings and for international keepers (flight cost, lodging). Please contact Beth Pohl 614-645-3400 or bpohl@hotmail.com for more information! Thank you. EHIBITCR TABLES We are taking reservations for Exhibitors Tables. Please contact Gretchen Bickert at astral_owl@yahoo.com as soon as possible if you are interested. DEADLIMES TO REMEMBER Atstmct vSubmission - 1 Auq u st 2000 Eiotel R eservations (at CZ^onferencG rate) - 1 vSeptemiDep 2000 C^onferencG Reqistration (witk no late fee) - 1 sSeptemker 2000 JUeS UCCGSS ful Hand Hearing and f Hcintroduction o a -Saudi Goitered Gazell By Kelly Thomas, Senior Zoo Keeper - Hoof Stock Detroit Zoological Institute, Detroit, MI Introduction In June 1998 we were faced with a difficult decision. We had a Saudi goitered gazelle {Gazella subgutturosa marica) which was having a difficult delivery and needed assistance. Due to this being her first offspring and the added stress of medical intervention, it was decided not to risk her rejecting the calf Several zoo keepers volunteered to help with nursery duty, including myself Among other things, our duties were mixing formulas, feeding, and cleaning the baby gazelle. At our zoo, we have had several animals that have displayed unnatural behaviors due to hand-raising. We wanted to keep the gazelle as natural as possible, so we devised a plan of clicker training, early reintroduction back to the herd, and staying out of its life as much as possible. This paper will document the calf s growth and development as well as our procedures. At the present time, the gazelle is over one year old, is doing well, and seems to be a fairly normal gazelle. Species Background The goitered gazelle has four recognized subspecies, one of which is the Saudi goitered gazelle also called the Arabian sand gazelle. Once common in the Arabian Peninsula as far north as eastern Jordan and Iraq (Carter, 1997), these gazelles now mostly occur as isolated remnant populations in remote areas or in protected reserves (Kingswood and Blank Blank, 1996). (see Fig. 1) Figure 1. The geographic distribution of the four subspecies of Gazella subgutturosa (Carter, 1995) Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 7, 2000 309 This is due to competition with domestic livestock for grazing, loss of habitat, mortality due to harsh winters and deep snows, and predation by foxes, feral dogs, birds of prey, and especially man. A population estimate in 1996 was 1,200 in Saudi Arabia (Kingswood and Blank, 1996). This subspecies is considered as endangered (Nowak, 1999). However, there are reintroductions being conducted in Saudi Arabia to develop additional reserve populations. These animals are not widely kept in zoos, and outside of Saudi Arabia the United States has the only other captive population. There are 1.6 in Detroit, 1.3 in San Antonio, and 5.9 at the San Diego Wild Animal Park (ISIS Abstract Report, December 1998). Thus it is apparent that every individual of this subspecies is of great importance. These gazelles live in desert and semiarid regions of the Arabian Peninsula. They are sexually dimorphic with the males being larger with well developed, l3rrate horns. Females have much smaller and less developed horns. Both sexes have the goiter-like enlargement of the larynx, but it is more prominent in the males especially during the breeding season. This medium size gazelle is 94-99 cm in length, 58-69 cm in height, and weighs 20-43 kg for males and 18-33 kg for females (Kingswood and Blank, 1996). The face and forehead of the young have darker facial markings which fades to whitish in the adults. The belly is white, while the fur color on the back ranges from nearly white to light sandy-yellow. These gazelles are most active in the morning and evening, and they like to rest in sandy depressions during the day. They are gregarious and usually occur in small herds. However, during the fall and winter, herds may number into the hundreds when they gather at prime grazing areas. They mainly graze, but will also eat other plants and browse. The breeding season is October through January. Gestation is 148-159 days after which one or two calves are born. Calves are precocious and can stand and nurse in 10-15 minutes. They reach sexual maturity in one year. Longevity in the wild averages six years, and in captivity it can be up to 15 years (Kingswood and Blank, 1996). Detroit’s Program Our male (born in 1994) is kept separately and is only introduced for the breeding season and then removed. Our female herd is kept in an enclosure that has a stall, small holding yard, and a large outdoor yard. The stall is roughly 11m by 7m and has gas powered ceiling furnaces which are kept at 21° C (70° F). The gazelles have access to this stall at night in the summer or all day when the weather gets cooler. They are locked in the holding yard that is roughly 16m by 5m and the stall at night if possible. During the winter they are let out in the big yard only if the temperature is above 0° C (32° F), it is not icy, it is not windy, and it is fairly sunny. The big yard is oval in shape and at its widest points it is roughly 78m by 44m, and it has a pool, water tub, shade trees, an overhang, logs, and sandy depressions, (see Fig. 2) The gazelles are fed a diet of 0.23-0.45 kg (0.5-1 lb.) of ruminant pellets (Mazuri® ADF 16) and 1/2 - 1 flake of alfalfa hay per animal per day. They have access to water and a salt brick and they get treats or browse three or more times a week. There was no breeding in the 1996-1997 season. Our male was introduced to two of our females in January 1998. The other two females we had are his offspring and were held in a different holding area. Our oldest female. Jasmine (9 years old in 1998), gave birth in August 1998. She is an experienced mother and had no problems raising her calf The other female, Imshallah (4 years old in 1998), had difficulties. This was her first breeding and birth. Hand Raising On 23 June 1998 Imshallah began to deliver her calf She was unable to pass the calf on her own. She was caught and the calf was pulled out by the veterinary staff The baby 310 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7, 2000 was pulled at 0935 hrs. and was taken to a nursery stall in the hospital. It was decided to hand-raise the calf because in the past, assisted birth calves were always rejected by the mothers. This may be due to the stress of being restrained or the fact that the mother and calf have no chance to form a bond. At birth the calfs weight was 2.195 kg (4.84 lbs.) which is larger then the average calf weight at birth of 1.86 kg (4. 10 lbs.). The female calfs tongue and nose were swollen, however it was not a concern as the swelling went down within 1.5 hours. Immediately following the birth, colostrum was collected from the mother. This was accomplished by using a syringe with the end cut off This was placed over the nipple and pulling on the plunger created suction. This method worked very well. On 23 June 1998 (day 1) the calf was fed only the mother‘ s colostrum at eight feedings throughout the day from 1145 to 1930 hrs. The calf, named Binti which loosely in Arabic means “little girl”, was also given injections of Mu-se® (vitamins), LA 200 (antibiotics), and lactated ringers solution (fluids). We warmed up the food in a soft collapsible bottle in the microwave. (Both the bottle and the nipple we used were the kind used to hand-raise kangaroos.) After testing the temperature on our wrists, we put a short nipple on the bottle. Originally, to stimulate Binti to eat we would bend over her and make noises similar to the mother‘s grunts. This worked well and she caught on fast. Soon we were able to stop grunting. After feeding we would stimulate her anal area with a warm wet cloth to induce urination and defecation; however, after the first week she began urinating and defecating on her own even thogh we continued to stimulate her after feedings. The bedding in the stall was changed daily and also the floor was disinfected. After each feeding all the bottles, nipples, and measuring cups were washed and disinfected. Records were kept daily and at each feeding recording amounts eaten, urination, defecation, weight, vital signs, and any significant events. On day 2 Binti was fed cow colostrum (we get it frozen from Michigan State University) and formula in a 50:50 ratio. The formula was made up of goaf s milk and Esbalac® in a 3:1 ratio. (This is a formula that is used at the San Diego Zoo and it works well.) From the third day through day 26 she was fed colostrum and formula in a 10:90 ratio, and after day 27 she was given only formula. On day 6 she had diarrhea, and on day 7 she was given a lot of Pedialyte® to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. On day 9 Binti got 1-2 cm of Equine Bene-Bac™ (lactobacillus paste) once a day, to replace good bacteria in the GI tract that may have been killed off by the antibiotics. This was given through day 78. Feeding Schedule From day 2 through day 24 Binti was fed five times a day at roughly 600, 0900, 1200, 1500, and 1800 hrs. Also, starting on day 9 we limited the amount of food consumed to 3% of her body weight. On days 25 through 27 she was fed four times a day at 0600, 0900, 1500, and 1800hrs. Days 28 through 62 had her on three feedings a day at 0700, 1200, and 1700hrs. She was down to two feedings a day at 0700 and 1700hrs. on days 63 through 76, and on days 77 through 83 she received one feeding in the morning. On 13 September 1998 Binti received her last bottle. At this time she was eating solid food. Techniques Once she began eating well we trained her to recognize that a clicker meant her bottle. We began this on day 3. She learned this very fast. Then we began feeding her from outside her stall, so that there was just an arm with a bottle in with her instead of our whole body. During this whole time we tried not to talk much around her, and we tried not to handle her as much as possible. We only entered her nursery room at feeding time and left as soon as we were done. The last step was reintroducing her into the herd. We set up a small howdy cage inside the gazelle enclosure in a shady area. Starting on day 5 we placed her in the cage for a short time during the day. She was brought back to the hospital afterwards. Starting on day 7 we began feeding her while she was out in the Animal Keepers* Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7, 2000 311 howdy cage. Gradually, we lengthened the time she was out until by day 17 she was out all day. During this time the females began to show an interest in her and would graze and rest nearby. On day 24 she was put in the stall and holding yard for a few days, and after that on day 29 she was released with the rest of the herd. She was still receiving a bottle, but was trained to come into the holding yard when she heard the clicker. When she heard it she really came running. At this time if she saw us she would follow us around. Gradually, she started losing interest. She would run up to us and when we did not produce any food she would lose interest and wander away. This system seemed to work very well for us. Figure 2. Diagram of our enclosure at the Detroit Zoological Institute. (Not shown to scale) Development Binti learned very fast, and she was usually very eager to eat. The amount of food she consumed steadily increased until we began the weaning process and started to cut back the amount she was given. (See Graph 1, The total amount of formula consumed per day, at the end of the paper.) Her weight also steadily increased. (See Graph 2, Weight, at the end of the paper.) On day 8 the first solid that she nibbled on was dirt, but later that day she was seen nibbling on hay. On day 10 she was given a water bowl and a bowl of ruminant pellets. On days 14 and 15 she was seen eating hay and pellets respectively. By day 20 she was eating grass. On 6 September 1998 (day 77) horn nubs were appearing. Conclusion I believe that all of our time and hard work has paid off, and that this is a success story. Binti has grown rapidly and remained healthy and strong. She is very much a part of the herd now. They graze and rest together, and she also has played with the other calf bom in 1998. I think that the time we spent acclimating the herd to her and her young 312 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7, 2000 age played a big role in this. When we enter the yard now, occasionally she will come up to us but she never stays around long. One of our biggest fears was that Binti would have abnormal behaviors. She is now over one year old, and so far ever5d;hing seems to be going well. In the literature I found that in captivity hand reared females have proven to be capable mothers (Kingswood and Blank, 1996). We have high hopes for Bintf s future. This was definnitely a wonderful and unique experience that I am glad I was able to participate in. It is one of the many ways that show that keeper‘s roles in zoos are expanding far beyond the “regular cleaning and feeding'’. I hope that by sharing our experience, others may be able to use some of the information. Graph 1. The total amount of formula consumed per day. Animal Keepers* Forum, Vol 27, No. 7, 2000 313 Graph 2. WEIGHT Acknowledgements I would like to thank the following Detroit Zoological Institute staff for their assistance with this paper : Angel Mitchell, Candice Bando, Dr. Ann Duncan, Pat Granberry, and Curator of Mammals Scott Carter. Products Mentioned in the Text Equine Bene-Bac™ (Equine lactobacillus paste) Pet-Ag, Inc. Elgin, Illinois 60120 Esbilac® milk replacer for puppies Pet-Ag, Inc. 261 Keyes Ave. Hampshire, IL 60140 LA 200 (oxytetracycline injection) Phoenix Pharmaceutical, Inc. St. Joseph, Missouri 64506 Lookingglass Farms 800 Pruner Rd., Box M Riddle, OR 97469 Soft collapsible kangaroo bottles and short nipples 314 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol 27, No. 7, 2000 Mazuri® (ruminant pellets) ADF 16 Frontier Distributing Inc. 533 South Lapeer Rd. RO. Box #458 Oxford, MI 48371 Meyenberg® evaporated goat milk Jackson Mitchell RO. Box 934 Turlock, CA 95381 Mu-se® injection (selenium, vitamin E) Schering-Plough Animal Health Kenilworth, NJ 07033 Pedialyte® (electrolyte) Ross Products Division Abbot Laboratories Columbus, Ohio 43215-1724 References Carter, Scott. 1995. Goitered Gazelle North American Regional Studbook. 3rdedition. Detroit Zoological Institute, Michigan. International Species Information System Abstract Report. December 1998. 12101 Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Building A, Room 6, Apple Valley, MN Kingswood, Steven C. and David A. Blank. 1996. Gazella suhgutturosa. Mammalian Species. No. 518: 1-10. American Society of Mammalogists. Nowak, Ronald M. 1999. WalkeP s Mammals of the World, Sixth Edition. Vol. 2. The Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore. L&G Livestock Gourmet Meat for Carnivores Pamper your carnivores with our delightful Treat Meat - Carcass bone-in Beef and Mutton from disease and injection-free animals. Custom cut and packaged in our USDA plant. Order your free sample today. Ann Metz, Sales Manager, 23689 S.W. Voss Place, Sherwood, OR 97140 Phone: (877) 247-4364 Fax: (503) 925-8813 e-mail : annmetz @ portland.quik.com Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol 27, No. 7, 2000 315 V(/ilcl Avifauna of tfiG Pliil adclpfiia Z^ooloqica IG arden By Robert Berghaier, Theresa Maas-Anger, and John Ffinch, Animal Department, Philadelphia Zoological Garden, Philadelphia, PA Species of wild avifauna observed in or fl3dng over the Philadelphia Zoological Garden (PZG) were noted by zoo staff and volunteers between January 1993 and December 1997. Ninety-six different species of avifauna were identified. Of the total number of species observed, 21 (22%) were species that are of national or local conservation concern and 14 (15%) were species considered at risk due to tropical deforestation. The PZG attracts a diverse wild avifauna representing 12 Orders, the presence of which can, through interpretive graphics and programs, be used to fulfill aspects of the institution’s overall mission statement. Key words: Philadelphia Zoo; urban wildlife; resident and migratory birds Introduction Nearly all zoo professionals have noticed how zoo visitors are as fascinated by, and in the case of young visitors sometimes even more attracted to, the free-ranging species of wildlife found on the grounds of zoological parks and gardens than with the specimens on exhibit. In the Philadelphia Zoological Gardens (PZG), for example, grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) and resident peafowl {Pavo cristatas) get a great deal of visitor attention. Many individuals of any zoo’s staff, like the authors of this paper, find the variety of species of wild avifauna attracted to their facilities a pleasant diversion from their daily duties. With a few noted exceptions, [Condy, 1995] and [Tjirumurthi & Balaji, 1997], we are not aware of even partial lists, compiled by zoological facilities, that note the species of free-ranging avifauna that are seen on grounds. We are sure, however, that numerous individuals keep their own records. The wider dissemination of recorded information on local wild avifauna not only has benefits as a personal hobby, but also as sources for scientific study. There is much interest in North American ornithology on such issues as bird distribution [Walsh, 1995], the effect of residential development on Neotropical migrant songbirds [Friessen, Eagles & Mackay, 1995], and the reproductive success of migratory birds in habitat sinks [Donovan, et al, 1995]. These are issues that detailed published records of wild birds from zoological facilities can help examine and address. In addition there is an increased interest in bird watching by the general public. Urban birding areas have become increasingly important to large numbers of birders who live and/or work near them [Kerlinger, 1996]. Methods The PZG is an older urban zoo [Lattis, 1990], and is surrounded by dense residential and commercial areas, and arterial road and rail systems. The facility has a total area of 17 hectares (42 acres). Approximately 50% of the garden are devoted to horticultural and naturalistic exhibits, within a wooded Victorian garden setting. A 1.3 hectare lake is located in the center of the grounds. Although bounded on all sides by the city, the zoo is located less than a half mile from both the Schuylkill River and the western section of the Fairmount Park System, one of the largest city park systems in the United States. 316 Animal Keepers* Forum, VoL 27, No. 7, 2000 In January 1993, staff members and volunteers of the PZG were invited to participate in this project, and the authors began to record sightings of wild avifauna which had been observed either within the grounds of the PZG or flying overhead. A standardized form (Figure 1) was developed for each sighting, on which was recorded the species, location, age and sex (if determinable), any vocalization types, and any additional comments regarding the sighting. Twenty-five individuals participated, all of whom were considered reliable observers, who were able to assist with identification of bird sightings by interested but less knowledgeable persons. The completed forms were collected periodically and annual reviews were distributed to survey participants. In addition, the Delaware Valley Ornithological Club (DVOC) started in January 1996 to include the PZG grounds in their yearly count of wild birds within the Philadelphia City limits. Their observations have also been included here. In 1998 all the observations were compiled and reviewed. The sightings were organized taxonomically [Clements, 19911. The status of each species was determined by the frequency and dates of observation at the PZG. Several references were used to categorize the species relative to the PZG and the Philadelphia area [Robbins, Bruun & Zim, 1983], [Russell, 1996], [Selzer, 1994&95] and [Shepard, 1997]. The birds were then listed (Table 1) in one of six categories, divided according to their individual residential and/or migratory status within zoo grounds. In addition, the list of observed birds was compared with the National Audubon Society listings [Ehrlich, Dobkin & Wheye, 1988] for wild avifauna that are of national or local I conservation concern, or are at risk due to tropical deforestation. I Results I A total of 96 avian species (Table 1) were identified on PZG grounds from 1/93 to 12/97. They represented 12 Orders, 31 Families and 69 Genera (Table 2). BIRD IDENTIFICATION RESPONSE FORM Date observed: Your name: Time of day: Date submitted: Species: — Are you sure? Y or N Sex Of known): Location in Zoo: Tree or plant bird was using (if known): Special activities (l e. carrying nesting material or insects)? Other people present: If unsure of ID. contact one of the people below for verification when possible. Figure 1 . I Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 7, 2000 317 Of the 96 species noted 30 (31%) were year round residents at the PZG. A further 13 species (14%) were resident in the Philadelphia area but were observed only occasionally at the PZG. Fifty-three species (55%) were migrants to the Philadelphia area. Of these, 11 species (12%) were spring and summer residents of the PZG, and eight species (8%) were fall and winter residents. Twenty-five species (26%) were spring and summer migrants, and nine species (9%) were fall and winter migrants to the Philadelphia area and occasional visitors to PZG. Our records show a total of 49 species (51%) of wild avifauna was either year-round or seasonal residents of the Garden between 1993 and 1997. The 96 species observed during the study include 21 (22%) that are of national or local conservation concern. Of these species, ten are resident or seasonal residents at the PZG. They include American black duck {Anas ruhripes), sharp-shinned hawk (Accipiter striatus), Cooper’s hawk {Accipiter cooperii), red-tailed hawk {Buteo jamaicensis), eastern screech-owl {Otus asio), Carolina wren {Thyrothorus ludovicianus), golden-crowned kinglet {Regulus satrapa), yellow warbler {Dendroica petechia), ovenbird {Seiurus aurocapillus) and American goldfinch {Carduelis tristis) [Ehrlich et al, 1988]. A total of 14 (15%) species observed during the study have been noted as being considered at risk due to tropical deforestation. Four species: American redstart {Setophaga ruticilla), scarlet tanager {Piranga olivacea), northern oriole {Icterus galhula) and ovenbird [Ehrlich et al, 1988] are spring/summer residents at the PZG. Two species, the black and white warbler {Mniotilta varia), an occasional seasonal visitor, and the ovenbird are species of local and national concern, and are at risk through tropical deforestation. Discussion Even though the PZG grounds are small, the zoo’s extensive plantings, and the proximity to the Schuylkill River and units of the Fair mount Park System, allow for a greater variety of wild avifauna than if the Garden was surrounded by a more extensive urbanized area. The immediate environs have a fair amount of diversity of birds in spite of its location within Philadelphia City limits. The DVOC lists 293 species that are resident or occasional visitors to the Philadelphia region. Our observations show that the PZG forms a habitat oasis, which supplements the Fairmount Park Systems efforts in protecting varied avifauna within the city limits of Philadelphia. Such patches of landscape have been recognized as being important for regional conservation [Merrill, Cuthbert & Oehlert, 1998] [Wood, 1988] . Aspects of the zoo’s landscape provide habitat, food and shelter for various species, including those of conservation concern. The presence of the lake and other exhibit pools attract water dependent species such as the great blue heron {Ardea herodias), black-crowned night heron {Nycticorax nycticorax), green-winged teal {Anas crecca), and black duck. The assemblage of roosting rock doves {Columba livia), European starlings {Sturnus vulgaris, and house sparrows {Passer domesticus), attracts predators such as the sharp-shinned. Cooper’s and red-tailed hawks, three species that have been recorded as fall/winter residents on zoo grounds and are of conservation concern. Unfortunately some of the species have a negative impact on our collection. The problematic Canada goose {Branta canadensis), mallard {Anas platyrhynchos), ring-billed gull {Larus delaw arensis), and herring gull {Larus argentatus) aggressively compete with collection birds for food. Predation on zoo grounds sometimes occurs, with red- 318 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol 27, No. 7, 2000 tailed hawks and great horned owls {Bubo virginianus) being suspected of having taken waterfowl from the PZG’s inventory. Wild birds are also potential sources of infectious avian diseases. The present mission statement of the PZG has four components: conservation, research, education and public recreation. The presence of a diverse wild avifauna on zoo grounds can assist in these aspects of the institution’s objectives. Confirming the ovenbird (a species of local or conservation concern and at risk due to tropical deforestation) as a seasonal resident of the PZG is of particular interest. This species could be the subject of a study, which would determine its range within the zoo’s grounds and what habitat management might be needed to secure its presence and increase its numbers on site. Visitor impacts [Klein, Humphrey, & Percival, 1995], normal aspects of any facilities operations can be drawbacks to conservation initiatives. These need to be examined on a case by case basis. The research potential of studying a facility’s wild birds is great. There have been several recent changes in species’ ranges, such as the Eurasian collared-dove {Streptopelia decaocto) [Lehman, 1998]. Institutions that keep wild avifaunal records may make important contributions to ornithological science in such areas. Studies would also allow facilities to achieve goals that several sources [Kagen, 1988] and [Kohn, 1988] have noted as being important to institutions and individual employees alike. The education value of an institution’s wild avifauna has great potential. Its presence, with appropriate graphics and education programs, could show important avian conservation issues. If Neotropical migrants are found on facility grounds, the decline of such species as suggested by Bohning-Gaese, Taper & Brown, 1993 can be explained and solutions offered. The complexity of habitat fragmentation [Rich, Dobkin & Niles, 1994] may have greater impact, if it is shown to affect the diversity of wild birds found not only on zoo grounds but also at the zoo visitors’ bird feeders. Several sources [Kellert, 1979] and [Milian & Wourms, 1992] have explored the unfulfilled potential of a zoo’s effect on visitor perception. An education effort using a facility’s resident wild avifauna could help to address this issue. A possible option would be to incorporate the presence of wild species, including birds, as exhibits. An excellent example of this has occurred in the Phoenix Zoo [Demlong, 1994]. Publicizing the zoo as an urban birding destination to zoo members, local Audubon chapters and interested visitors could expand the public recreation aspect of the PZG’s mission. For example, a facility bird list supplemented by the DVOC regional avifauna listing could be presented to bird watchers on request at the PZG. Michael Robinson [Robinson, 1992] first proposed that zoos are more than just a collection of captive animals, and it was he who originated the term “Biopark” By revealing wildlife beyond the confines of the zoo, the acknowledgement of the presence of wild avifauna found on the grounds of any zoo or aquarium, can be a valuable component of this farsighted concept, and its interpretation to visitors. Conclusions 1. The Philadelphia Zoo forms a natural habitat island within a dense urban environment. 2. The Philadelphia Zoo has a diverse wild avifauna, which either resides in or visits its grounds year-round. Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol 27, No. 7, 2000 319 3. There is scientific value in recording the species of wild birds which reside or visit a zoological garden. 4. The presence of a wild avifauna can help zoos fulfill aspects of their mission statements. References Bohning-Gaese, K.; Taper, M.; Brown, J. Are declines in North American insectivorous songbirds due to causes on the breeding range? Conservation Biology Vol. 7 No. 1 Pp. 76-86, March 1993. Clements, J. Birds of the World, A Check List. Ibis Publishing Company, Vista, CA, 1991. Condy, P. Checklist of free-ranging birds in and over Johannesburg Zoological Gardens. Pan African Association of Zoological Gardens Aquaria and Botanical Gardens Bulletin 1 Pp. 11-12, 1995. Demlong, M. Wild things in wild spaces: interpreting native species on the zoo grounds. Animal Keepers’ Forum Vol. 21 No. 6 Pp. 209-214, 1994. Donovan, T; Thompson, R; Faaborg, J.; Probst, J.; Reproductive success of migratory birds in habitat sources and sinks. Conservation Biology Vol. 9 No. 6 Pp. 1380-1395, December 1995. Ehrilich, P; Dobkin, D.; Wheye, D. The Birders Handbook, A Field Guide to the Natural History of North American Birds. Simon and Schuster/ Fireside, 1988. New York, NY. Friesen, L.; Eagles, J.; Mackay, D. Effects of residential development on forest- dwelling Neotropical migrant songbirds. Conservation Biology Vol. 9 No. 6 Pp. 1408-1415, December 1995. Kagen, R. Promoting zoo research. AAZPA Annz/aZ Prodeedings Pp. 349-351, 1980. Kellert, S. Zoological Parks in American Society. AAZPA Annual Proceedings, 1979. Kerlinger, P. New York City, birding the Wild Apple. Wild Bird April Pp. 42-45, 1996. Klein, M.; Humphrey, R.; Percival, H. Effects of ecotourism on distribution of waterbirds in a wildlife refuge. Conservation Biology Vol. 9 No. 6 Pp. 1454- 1465, December 1995. Kohn, F. The potential role of zoo keepers in research. AAZPA Annual Proceedings Pp. 559-567, 1988. Lattis, R. The challenge of older and urban zoos. AAZPA Regional Proceedings Pp. 479-486, 1990. Lehman, P. A Eurasian collared-dove at Cape May: first sighting in New Jersey. Records of New Jersey Birds Vol. 24 No. 1 Pp. 5-5, Spring 1998. Merrill, S.; Cuthbert, F; Oehlert, G. Residual pathes and their contribution to forest- bird diversity on Northern Minnesota aspen clearcuts. Conservation Biology Vol. 12 No. Pp. 190-199, 1998. Milan, L.; Wourms, M. A zoological park is not just another museum. Curator Vol. 35 No. 2 Pp. 120-136, 1992. Rich, A.; Dobkin, D.; Niles, L. Defining forest fragmentation by corridor width: the influence of narrow forest-dividing corridors on forest-nesting birds in Southern New Jersey. Conservation Biology Vol. 8 No. 4 Pp. 1109-1121, December 1994. Robbins, C.; Bruun, B.; Zim, H. A Guide To Field Identification, Birds Of North America. New York, Golden Press, 1983. Robinson, M. Global change, the future of biodiversity and the future of zoos. Biotropica 24(2b): 345-352, 1992. Russell, K. Winter bird census in Philadelphia. The Philadelphia Academy Of Natural Sciences Newsletter Vol. 2 No. 1 Pp. 2, 1996. 320 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7, 2000 Seltzer, M, Christmas bird count report. Wyncote Chapter of The National Audubon Society 1994 and 1995. Shepard, K. My pursuit of the elusive wood warblers. The Quill, Newsletter for The Schuylkill Center For Environmental Education Pp. 5, Spring 1997. Thirumurthi, S.; Balaji, S. Avifauna of the Forest College and Research Institute campus, Mettupalayam, Tamil Nadu. ZOO PRINT, Zoo Outreach Organization India Newsletter Pp. 24-26, April 1997. Walsh, J. News of the Atlas to New Jersey’s Birds. Peregrine Observer, The Cape May Bird Observatory Newsletter Vol. 18, No. 1 Pp. 17-19, September 1995. Wood, J. Local landscape conservation: what can zoo’s do? AAZPA Annual Proceedings Pp. 458-462, 1988. TABLE 1. List of wild avifauna at the Philadelphia Zoological Gardens Family/species Common Name Status Phalacrocoracidae Phalacrocrax auritus Double-crested cormorant* ms Ardeidae Ardea herodias Great blue heron* V Casmerodius albus Great egret ms Butorides striatus Green heron ms Nycticorax nycticorax Black-crowned night heron* ms Nycticorax violacea Yellow-crowned night heron ms Anatidae Chen caerulescens Snow goose mw Branta canadensis Canada goose r Aix sponsa Wood duck r Anas crecca Green-winged teal* mw Anas rubripes American black duck* sw Anas platyrhynchos Mallard duck r Anas discors Blue-winged teal r Anas americana American widgeon sw Lophodytes cucullatus Hooded merganser mw Oxyura jamaicensis Ruddy duck V Cathartidae Cathartes aura Turkey vulture V Accipitridae Circus cyaneus Northern harrier* mw Accipiter striatus Sharp-shinned hawk* sw Accipiter cooperii Cooper’s hawk* sw Buteo jamaicensis Red-tailed hawk* sw Buteo platypterus Broad- winged hawk** mw Buteo lagopus Rough-legged hawk mw Falconidae Falco sparverius American kestrel V Rallidae Fulica americana American Coot V Scolopacidae Tringa macularia Spotted sandpiper ms Charadriidae Charadrius vociferus Killdeer ms Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol 27, No. 7, 2000 321 Familv/species Laridae Larus atricilla Larus delawarensis Larus argentatus Larus marinus Columbidae Columha livia Zenaida macroura Strigidae Otus asio Bubo virginianus Apodidae Chaetura pelagica Alcedinidae Ceryle alcyon Picidae Melanerpes carolinus Sphyrapicus varius Picoides pubescens Picoides villosus Colaptes auratus Tyrannidae Tyrannus tyrannus Common Name Status Laughing gull ms Ring-billed gull r Herring gull r Greater black-backed gull mw Rock dove r Mourning dove r Eastern screech-owl* r Great horned owl r Chimmey swift ss Belted kingfisher V Red-bellied woodpecker V Yellow-bellied sapsucker** ms Downy woodpecker r Hairy woodpecker V Northern flicker r Eastern kingbird ss Corvidae Cyanocitta cristata Blue jay Corvus brachyrhynchos American crow Corvus ossifragus Fish crow r r m Turdidae Sialia sialis Catharus fuscescens Catharus ustulatus Catharus mustelina Turdus migratorius Eastern bluebird* V Veery** ms Swainson’s thrush** ms Wood thrush** ms American robin r Mimidae Dumetella carolinensis Grey catbird ss Mimus polyglottos Northern Mockingbird r Toxostoma rufum Brown thrasher V Stumidae Sturnus vulgaris Common starling r Sittidae Sitta carolinensis White-breasted nuthatch r Sitta canadensis Red-breasted nuthatch r Certhiidae Certhia americana Brown creeper* V Troglodytidae Thryothorous ludovicianus Carolina wren* r Troglodytes aedon House wren V Troglodytes troglodytes Winter wren mw Hirundinidae Tachycineta bicolor Tree swallow* ms Hirundo rustica Barn swallow ss Regulidae Regulus satrapa Golden-crowned kinglet* r 322 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7, 2000 Familv/species Regulus calendula Paridae Parus atricapillus Parus carolinensis Parus hicolor Passeridae Passer domesticus Fringillidae Carpodacus purpureus Carpodacus mexicanus Carduelis tristis Parulidae Dendroica petechia Dendroica magnolia Dendroica caerulescens Dendroica coronata Dendroica dominica Dendroica pinus Dendroica striata Setophaga ruticilla Mniotilta varia Seiurus aurocapillus Seiurus novehoracensis Geothlypis trichas Icteridae Agelaius phoeniceus Quiscalus quiscula Molothrus ater Icterus galhula Common Name Status Ruby-crowned kinglet r Black-capped chickadee sw Carolina chickadee r Tufted titmouse r House sparrow r Purple finch* mw House finch r American goldfinch* ss Yellow warbler* ss Magnolia warbler** ms Black-throated blue warbler ms Yellow-rumped warbler ms Yellow-throated warbler** ms Pine warbler ms Blackpoll warbler** ms American redstart** ss Black and white warbler* ** ms Ovenbird* ** ss Northern waterthrush** ms Common yellowthroat** ss Red-winged blackbird ss Common grackle r Brown-headed cowbird ms Northern oriole** ss Emberizidae Legend/Totals Piranga olivacea Cardinalis cardinalis Scarlet Tanager** Northern Cardinal Pipilo erythrophthalmus Rufous-sided towhee Spizella pusilla Passerella iliaca Melospiza melodia Zonotrichia alhicollis Junco hyemalis Field sparrow Fox sparrow Song sparrow White-throated sparrow Dark-eyed junco ms r r ms V r sw sw * Species of local or national conservation concern. (21) **Species considered at risk due to tropical deforestation. (14) Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 7, 2000 323 30 Resident in PZG year round: r - Resident in Phila. area year round and visitor to PZG: V - 13 Seasonal resident in PZG spring and summer: ss - 11 Seasonal resident in PZG fall and winter: sw - 8 Seasonal migrants of the Phila. area observed at the PZG spring and summer: ms - 25 Seasonal migrants of the Phila. area observed at the PZG fall and winter: mw - 9 Total: 96 TABLE 2. Taxonomic status of wild avifauna observed at the Philadelphia Zoological Gardens, Philadelphia, PA. Order Families Genera Species Pelecaniformes 1 Ciconiformes 1 Anseriformes 1 Falconiformes 3 Gruiformes 1 Charadriiformes 3 Columbiformes 1 Strigiformes 1 Apodiformes 1 Coraciiformes 1 Piciformes 1 Passeriformes 16 12 31 1 4 7 5 1 3 2 2 1 1 4 38 69 1 5 10 8 1 6 2 2 1 1 5 54 96 324 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7, 2000 AAZK Book Sale Sale price if 20% off the Suggested Price Previous books may still be available, with some price increases Sug. $ Sale$ Item Title and Description $26.00 $20.80 Livinsf on the Wind: Across the Globe with Migratory Birds - Scott Weidensaul. The author follows kettles of hawks over the Mexican coastal plains, bar-tailed godwits that hitchhike on gale winds and myriad songbirds. 434 pgs. hardcover (maps) $29.98 $23.98 Threatened Birds of the Americas : The ICBP/IUCN Red Data Book - N. J. Collar, et. al. This volume covers all the threatened species in North and South America. Each species includes sections on distribution, population, ecology and threats. 1,150 pgs. hardcover. $24.95 $19.96 The Bird Garden: A Comprehensive Guide to Attracting Birds to Your Backvard Throug-hout the Year - Stenhen W Kress Descriptions and lists of more than 300 trees, shrubs and other plants and the birds that rely on them for food and cover. Also includes nest boxes, platforms, dust baths and water sources. 176 pgs. hardcover. $35.00 $28.00 The Deer of North America - Leonard Lee Rue III. This comprehensive book covers every important factor in the lives of four deer species: mule, white-tail, black-tail and Sitka. 544 pgs. hardcover. $24.95 $19.96 Through the Tiger's Eves: A Chronicle of India’s Wildlife - Stanley Breeden & Belinda Wright. National Geographic filmmakers have spent 29 astonishing years living, filming and writing in the Indian jungles. 208 pgs. paperback. $25.00 $20.00 Horn of Darkness: Rhinos on the Edge - Carol Cunningham & Joel Berger. A vividly written account of living in the wilds of Africa studying Black Rhino. 256 pgs. hardcover. $19.95 $15.96 The Great Anes: Our Face in Nature’s Mirror - Michael Leach This is a wonderful introduction to our nearest evolutionary neighbors. Evolution, ape intelligence, and the effects humans have had on apes and their environments. 176 pgs. paperback. $26.95 $21.56 Reason for Hope: A Spiritual Journev - Jane Goodall with Phillip Berman. Based on her many scientific, personal and spiritual experiences, Dr. Goodall takes readers through her life’s pivotal events. 320 pgs. hardcover. $25.00 $20.00 Silent Thunder: In the Presence of Elephants - Katv Pavne. This book is a rich natural history and a personal story of her field work in Kenya, Namibia and Zimbabwe. 288 pgs. hardcover. To Order: List the items you are ordering along with your name and complete mailing address. Include a shipping fee of $3.00 for the first item and $2.00 for each additional item. Checks payable to: “AAZK Book Sale” (U. S. Funds Only - No Cash or CODs please). Call or fax for shipping fees when ordering from outside the continental United States. Please call, write or fax your request before sending any money. We will help to find the best form of shipment. Mail requests to: AAZK Beardsley Zoo Chapter, Attn: Linda Tomas, 1875 Noble Ave., Bridgeport, CT 06610-1600 U.S.A.; Phone: (203) 394-6563; Fax: (203) 394-6566; e-mail: beardsleyz@aoLcom Animal Keepers* Forum, VoL 21, No. 7, 2000 325 Narion Manks Lacey Act Cememiai, 100 Yeans op FedenaL WiLdhpe Law Enponcemem One hundred years ago, on May 25, President William McEunley signed the Lacey Act, giving the United States its first far-reaching federal wildlife protection law and setting the stage for a century of progress in safeguarding wildlife resources. “The Lacey Act had an immediate impact on the rampant commercial exploitation of wildlife by giving game wardens a powerful enforcement tool,” said US. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Jamie Rappaport Clark. Passage of the Lacey Act in 1900 was prompted by growing concern about interstate profiteering in illegally taken game. The Passenger Pigeon was already well on its way to being hunted into extinction, and populations of other bird species were also declining in a number of states. Drafted and pushed through Congress by conservation-minded Representative John Lacey of Iowa, the Act made it illegal to transport from one state or territory to another any wild animals or birds killed in violation of state or territorial law. It also banned the importation of injurious wildlife that threatened crop production and horticulture in this country. In its original version, the Lacey Act focused on helping states protect their native game animals. Early prosecutions documented large-scale interstate trafficking in illegally taken wildlife. In 1901, for example, 48 men in Illinois were charged under the new law for illegally shipping more than 22,000 quail, grouse, and ducks into the state. In New York, enforcement officers recovered more than 40,000 illegally traded game birds from a cold storage facility in Brookl3m. Congress amended the Lacey Act several times during its first century. In the 1930s and 1940s, lawmakers expanded the statute’s prohibitions to cover international trade, uphold federal and foreign wildlife laws, and ban the importation of animals shipped under inhumane conditions. Amendments in 1981 overhauled the Act, reworking many of its provisions and increasing the penalties for wildlife trafficking. Today, the Lacey Act makes it unlawful to import, export, transport, sell, buy, or possess fish, wildlife, or plants taken, possessed, transported, or sold in violation of any federal, j state, foreign, or Native American tribal law, treaty, or regulation. ! “The Lacey Act remains a cornerstone for wildlife conservation by giving us the ability to combat interstate and global wildlife trafficking,” said Clark. Last year, for example. Service special agents worked on more than 1,500 Lacey Act I investigations. They exposed illegal guiding operations profiteering in both state and i federally protected species, and pursued cases involving the illegal, large-scale commercial | exploitation of black bears, Hawaiian corals, midwestern mussels. Lake Erie fish, and | Maryland yellow perch. On the global front, felony Lacey Act convictions were secured in cases involving caviar smuggling, international coral trafficking, and illegal trade of exotic reptiles. Service ‘ wildlife inspectors, stationed at major ports of entry and border crossings, stopped | shipments imported in violation of foreign conservation laws and international treaties and enforced regulations that require humane transport of live animals. 1 326 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 27, No.7, 2000 Those who knowingly violate the Lacey Act face maximum penalties of up to five years in prison and fines as high as $250,000 for individuals and $500,000 for organizations. Civil penalties may run as high as $10,000. Those convicted of felony offenses under the Lacey Act may be required to forfeit vehicles, aircraft, vessels, or other equipment used to commit the crime in addition to any fish, wildlife, or plants involved. ‘The Lacey Act centennial closes out a century of on-the-ground work to preserve our wildlife heritage,” Clark said. “WeVe proud of the contributions of federal wildlife law enforcement officers and applaud their continued efforts to make a difference for wildlife.” —excerpted from a News Release from the US. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior, May 25, 2000 You Know You’re a Keeper When... ....the word “shit” is not a bad word... new rakes and shovels are more exciting than diamonds. ....you can be bribed to do anything for chocolate cake you sit on a clothes dryer for warmth..... over lunch the discussion involves the consistancy of feces the casserole at the Christmas party reminds someone of an animal’s discharge and you eat it any way..... when you go to lunch with co-workers and you realize that everyone at nearby tables asks to be moved because of what you are discussing your most cherished gift is a Leatherman® Super Tool you call your kids the same sweet terms you use for the animals (sweet pea, precious) you bridge your kids after they have done something correctly (Good boy or Thanks!) when you store rats and “other” meat in your refrig next to or above your best leftovers. And your in-laws have come to accept it when you get in a big hurry because you forgot to thaw rats for feeding and you leave them in the home micrwave a little too long..... when you are a female keeper wearing a tank top and some guy asks you if you lift weights..... you know you’re a chimp keeper when you food-bark every time you sit down to a meal.... when you can identify which species a fecal originated from by smell (often on you hands). Contributed online, taken from ZooDigest and from James Bousquet, San Marcos, TX ...your contribution to the Zoo Christmas party menu was chocolates that resembled a variety of ruminent droppings. Everyone loved them!. ..when the first words your child learned were “Ma-ma, Da-da, and Hoot-gobble” you can see animal feces in the clouds, in the trees and in the sand that no one else can see you get off work and you can’t smell a thing, but everyone else can smell ybu.... after talking in your sleep last night, your wife asks about you grabbing keeper Matrtha’s Titi to take it to ISO to collect some Ka Ka....you know an ape keeper who can peel a banana and eat it using only his lips. You want to learn how to do it too... a party at your house includes an evening of environmental and behavioral enrichment.... your son’s biology teacher felt he went too far when introducing himself to the class on the first day as an “Hirsute Hominid with mammae pectoral, penis pendulus and testes scrotal.” and from Linda Watson, Davis burg, MI ...when your finacee visits the zoo vet on your wedding day. The Watsons planned a late afternoon wedding at the Zoo (of course!). Since everything was in place for the wedding, Linda decided to visit the vet to talk about a TV show she wanted to produce the morning of the wedding. Linda says this has become a family joke.. To Be Continued... send us your printable thoughts Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7,2000 327 AAZK Publications Available AAZK Diet Notebook. Mammals This reference work contains 325 diets representing 213 species and subspecies from fourteen participating institutions. The diets are arranged by taxonomic order using ISIS numbers in a durable and attractive three-ring D-style binder. Each Diet Response Form included contains the following information: common name, scientific name, ISIS number, the contributing individual, their institution, how long the diet has been used, whether the animals have bred while on the diet, the diet ingredients, instructions for preparation, notes and remarks, special considerations and nutritional analysis (if available). The Diet Notebook is a copyrighted publication of AAZK, Inc. Cost is AAZK Members $40.00; Nonmembers $55.00; and Institutions $70.00. These prices represent prepaid order prices and include postage for the U.S. and Canada. Overseas orders should add $20.00 for parcel post surface shipping. ISBN# 1-929672-00-4 Zoonotic Diseases. Second Edition This 40-page reference work details the most common zoonotic diseases, offers guidelines for preventive control and covers personal hygiene and disinfection procedures. Information for each disease is presented in text format which includes: Ethiologic Agent, Means of Transmission to Man, Global Distribution, Alternate or Intermediate Hosts, Human Incubation and Human Symptoms. Cost is $6.50 for AAZK members; $10.00 for Non-members. This price includes domestic shipping. Orders outside the U.S. and Canada should add $3.00 per copy for air mail postage. ISBN# 1-929672-01-2 Zoo and Aquarium Professionals; The History of AAZK This 216-page volume chronicles the first 25 years of the American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. from its beginnings at the San Diego Zoo in 1967. Included in the book is the early evolution of the Association, its projects, programs and committees, the histories of its 70-plus Chapters, and its involvement in two highly successful conservation programs - “Bowling for Rhinos” and the Ecosystem Survival Plan’s Conservation Parking Meters. Cost is $5.00 for all orders and includes domestic postage. Orders outside the U.S. should add $3.00 per copy for postage. ISBN# 1-929672-04-7 What Kind of Animal Are You? This charming collection includes zoo keepers’ favorite anecdotes about their work, their animals, and the zoo visitors with whom they come in contact. This 40-page volume, edited by John Stoddard and originally produced by the Brookfield AAZK Chapter, contains chapters entitled Keepers and Their Charges, The Great Unwashed, Good Question, Misidentified & Mispronounced, Phone Calls, ZooLingo, Murphy’s Laws of Zoo Keeping, and Clever Animal Names. This humorous, and sometimes irreverent, look at the world of zookeeping is sure to bring a smile to your face. Available for $5.00 for AAZK Members; $8.00 for Non-members. Price includes domestic postage. Orders outside the U.S. should add $3.00 for air mail postage. ISBN# 1-929672-05-5 To Order: send title(s) of publication(s) ordered, desired number of copies, along with payment to: AAZK, Inc., 3601 S.W. 29th St., Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614 USA. All orders must be prepaid. Make checks or money orders payable to “AAZK, Inc.” (U. S. Funds Only) . Be sure to include your name and complete mailing address. Mastercard and Visa orders may be placed by calling 1-800-242-4519 (U.S.) or 1-800-468-1966 (Canada) . Allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. Information about these and other AAZK publications along with ordering information may also be found at the AAZK website: www.aazk.org 328 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol 27, No. 7, 2000 Institutions wishing to advertise employment opportunities are asked to send pertinent data by the 10th of each month to: Opportunity Knocks fAKF, 3601 S.W. 29th St, Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614. Please include closing date for positions available and when setting these dates keep in mind that because of bulk-mail, most readers do not receive the AKF until the middle of the month or later. There is no charge for this service and fax listings of positions which become available close to deadline are accepted. Our fax is (785) 273-1980. Please Note NEW ADDRESS forAAZK ! TOOKKEPER! Asian £)omam,..reauires good written/oral communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment. Associate’s degree in biology or related field and three (3) year’s experience preferred or equivalent combination of training/ experience in the care of mammals, preferably elephants, carnivores and ungulates. Will work elephants as a back-up handler in a free contact program. All candidates must have the ability to lift 50 lbs. and a willingness to work outdoors. A willingness to work weekends, holidays, and/or overtime is also required. Salary commensurate with experience. Send resume and three (3) professional references to: Director of Recruitment, Audubon Institute, P. O. Box 4327, New Orleans, LA 70178 or fax to (504) 866-4236. KEEPER //Birds... the Caldwell Zoo has an entry-level position available in the Birds Department. As a member of the animal care team, this individual will perform daily husbandry duties for 80 species of North American, African and South American birds. High school diploma required. Prefer related college course work. Must have experience in bird husbandry. Requires ability to work in a team-atmosphere and intereact with the public. Send letter of interest and resume to: Yvonne Carbis, Curator of Birds & Reptiles, the Caldwell Zoo, P. O. Box 4280, Tyler, TX 75712; or fax to (903) 592-0351. The Caldwell Zoo is an equal opportunity employer. SENIOR KEEPER/PRIMATES,,, at non-profit sanctuary. Two (2) working positions responsible for daily care and maintenance of a diverse collection of primates. Strong leadership and communications skills a must. Requires high school diploma. Several years experience to allow for responsibility for a large colony of callithrichids or chimpanzees a must. Supervisory experience preferred. Competitive salary. References required. Send resume to: Primarily Primates, P. O. Box 207, San Antonio, TX 78291 or fax to (830) 755-2435. Position open until filled. ANIMAL KEEPER,..peTiorms duties in the maintenance of a healthy environment for animals at the zoo. Requires at least one (1) year of experience in the care of carnivores, hoofed mammals, primates, reptiles or other exotic animals in a controlled environment; OR equivalent experience and training. Annual salary range: $18,596 - $26,445 (Depending on Qualifications). Send detailed resume by 10 August 2000 to: City of Little Rock, Human Resources Dept., 500 W. Markham, Suite 130W, Little Rock, AR 72201-1428; (501) 371-4590; e-mail: HR- employment@littlerock.state.ar.us< NURSERY KEEPER. ..The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden has a position that will be available starting 1 September 2000 for a keeper in its nursery. Presently this is a four- month temporary position, but could result in a permanent situation. Off-groimds housing is provided. Applicant must have experience working with all neonate species (primates, felids, hoofed, etc.). They must have the ability to keep and maintain accurate records, prepare diets, monitor infants and assure high-level sanitary conditions. Good commimication skills and a willingness to work closely with the veterinary staff are important. This position demands a detail-oriented person who is computer literate, has good organizational skills and the ability to handle crisis situations. In addition to the Nursery care, the job includes two bird exhibits and a quarantine area. The hours are long and extend to weekends and holidays. Qualifications: Bachelor degree in biology, zoology or other related field plus two (2) years minimum of working experience. Starting pay is $8.50/hr. Submit resume and cover letter to: Cincinnati Zoo, Cincinnati Zoo Nursery, 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45220. Resumes/cover letters may also be faxed to (513) 559-1776. Closing date is 1 August 2000. ELEPHANT HANDLER...pos,\tion available in free-contact program currently housing 0.3 African elephants. Duties include all aspects of elephant husbandry and handling. Elephant Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7, 2000 329 experience preferred, but would consider training the right person. Send resumes to: Chuck Pankow, do Nashville Zoo, 3777 Nolensville Road, Nashville, TN 37211, or call (615) 405- 1808. ZOOKERPER.,S\{W-t\rx\o position available for a team player. We are looking for an individual who has had paid experience working in a zoo, and will bring with them a desire to do more than the minimum required. The person selected will be responsible for a large collection of mammals, birds, and reptiles. The duties not only include the care and feeding of the collection, but also being comfortable doing wildlife shows for an audience. Some experience with birds and reptiles a plus. We want a person who can take on the responsibility of helping to make our zoo a pleasant and rewarding experience for the visitors. Besides a competitive salary, we offer paid insurance, vacation, and sick days. Your resume may be sent to: Vince Hall, Claws ‘N’ Paws Wild Animal Park, RD 6, Lake Ariel, PA 18436. The following two (2) positions are available at the San Diego Zoo. Both are Regular (union) with benefits positions with a hourly pay rate of $14.60. For either position submit resume to the San Diego Zoo/Hiunan Resources Office, Otto Center, P. O. Box 120551, San Diego, CA 92112-0551. Be sure to include the position number listed with each position when applying. DEADLINE for application is 28 July 2000. AA/EOE. www.sandiegozoo.org KEEPER/BIRDS (ATTN: APC#J621Q4)...applicants must have aviculture experience. Knowledge of artificial incubation and hand rearing of baby birds is desirable. A Life Science degree or equivalent specialized training is preferred. Applicants must be able to work any of the seven days of the week and be willing to work mornings and evenings. KEEPERIPOLAR BEAR TEAM (ATTN: KEEPER #i6J7Q6)...Hoofstock and carnivore experience is required. Bird experience is desirable. Selected employee will work in a team environment and may work in other job classifications. Applicants must be available to work any of the seven days of the week. ZOOKEEPER...Y>^oieY AS/BS degree in biology/zoology-related field and two (2) years full- time, paid experience in zoological institution. Ability to work in a harmonious manner with staff, volunteers and supervisors, work any of the seven days of the week. Responsible for daily routine of animal husbandry, maintenance of exhibit and off-exhibit areas, record keeping, and assisting in veterinary practices. Daily management of mammals. Salary commensurate with experience, starting ranges $20,000.00 to $26,000.00 plus excellent benefits. Send resume to: Cougar Moimtain Zoo, 19525 SE 54th, Issaquah, WA 98027; Fax (425) 392-1076 Attn: Administrator. Position open until filled. AVICULTURE INTERN...^i\\ receive intensive, hands-on training in the care and maintenance of a large bird collection. Will experience all aspects of bird husbandry including general cleaning, handling, incubation, record keeping, public education, etc. Seeking college students or recent graduates with an interest in avian management biology. Interns will work with the aviculturists for a three-month period. This is a volimteer position with on-site housing provided. Internships available year-round. Send a letter and resume with references to: Tracy Aviary, 589 East 1300 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84105. ATTN: Kristine McCue/ Holly Seitz. CARNIVORE KEEPER INTERN. and twelve weeks internships available for applicants 18 years and older. Preference will be given to those pursuing degrees in animal science, zoology, biology, pre-vet and related fields. Interns gain experience in numerous aspects of carnivore husbandry. Species found at the Carnivore Preservation Trust include tigers, jaguars, leopards, snow leopards, clouded leopards, cougars, ocelots, caracals, servals, binturongs, kinkajous and a tayra. Internships are offered continuously. No stipend. Assistance in locating housing available. Please send letter/resume to: Intern Program, Carnivore Preservation Trust, 1940 Hanks Chapel Road, Pittsboro, NC 27312; or fax (919) 542-4454. For more information, call (919) 542-4684 or e-mail: cptigers@mindspring.com\ 330 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7, 2000 The following positions are available at Zoo Atlanta. Unless otherwise noted, resumes should be sent to: Gail Allen, Hiunan Resources, Zoo Atlanta, 800 Cherokee Ave. S.E., Atlanta, GA 30315; or faxed to (404) 624-5943. When applying, please specify for which position you are applying. WILDLIFE SHOW ASSISTANT..Jmmediaite opening. The Wildlife Show Assistant is responsible for assisting the Program Coordinator with the organization and presentation of the Wildlife Show and the care and maintenance of the education animals and their area. Assist in the development and implementation of additional education shows relating to the department. Requires a four-year degree in biology, psychology or related field. A minimum of two (2) years experience in animal handling in visitor education. VETERINARY TECHNICIAN. for a full-time Veterinary Technician. Responsible for assisting veterinarian and other staff with medical tasks. Requires 2-3 years of experience. Exotic animal experience necessary. Must possess a license of Veterinary Technology in the State of Georgia, or meet requirements to obtain one within six months of hire date. Four- year degree a plus. Must be computer literate. KEEPER //PAV2>AS...will be responsible for the care and maintenance of the giant pandas, will inspect all animals and exhibits, note the animals* health, appearance and behavior, as well as the conditions of the exhibit. Responsible for the cleaning and maintenance of exhibits, backup cages and the service areas as well as the feeding and watering of the animals. Prepare daily reports, participate in animal training and enrichment, assist in research projects and educational programming. Assist contract veterinarian and veterinary technician in animal care. Requires two (2) years working with bears or other large carnivores. BS/BA in zoology, biology, psychology or related field. Extensive hands-on experience may substitute for formal education. Experience with giant pandas will receive priority. Must be willing to work swing shift. ELEPHANT ! CARNIVORE jTEEPEJ?... position will be available after 1 Sept. 2000. Responsible for the care of the animals in the section and their habitats. The keeper must participate in the care of the collection including training/management in a free-contact elephant program. Observes and monitors health and behavior and commimicates changes to supervisor. Assists veterinary staff and supports Public Relations efforts. Maintains exhibits and holding areas. Requires four-year degree in biology, psychology, zoology or related field (sufficient relevant experience will be considered in partial fulfillment of education requirement). Requires elephant handling/training skills. Previous zoo experience or internship a plus. Must have knowledge of animal behavior and diets and ability to recognize abnormalities in animal health/behavior. COMMISSARY ASSISTANT MANAGER ...to assist with management of daily operation of the commissary, including staff, volunteer diet preparation, inventory, and diet delivery. Working position which will also work with technician in all aspects of the daily operation. Will assist with records and record keeping as assigned by Commissary Manager. Supervises and coordinates the daily operation of the animal diet kitchen. Responsible for training of staff and volxmteers in diet preparation and procedures. Assist with feed ordering, receiving, inventory, budget, and record keeping. Requires a degree in dietetics, nutrition, or Animal Science, Biology with course work in nutrition. Three (3) years experience in an animal diet kitchen or other food preparation operation. Previous experience working with volunteers a plus. Proficiency with Windows, Microsoft Word and Excel a plus. Must have valid driver’s license. Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. EDUCATION MANAGEMENT Education management at Zoo Atlanta. A strategic restructuring of the education department provides the following opportimities for professional Advancement at Zoo Atlanta: MANAGER OF EDUCATION ANIMAL CARE AND TRAINING (supervises education animal care and handling protocols, the Wieland Wildlife Home, Wildlife Show, Zoomobile, and animal encounters and other animal-related issues). Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 7, 2000 331 MANAGER OF PUBLIC PROGRAMS (supervises on-site visitor satisfaction, exhibit interpretation, show scripts and messages, “edutainment”. And education activities at the Wildlife preserve at Stone Mountain). MANAGER OF SCHOOL PROGRAMS AND SERVICES (supervises on-site school programs, curriculum development, school brochure and visits, and teacher workshops). Qualified applicants will have a minimum of a BS degree in Education, Conservation, Biology, Psychology or related field; three (3) years of progressive success in conservation education or related field; proven leadership abilities and commitment to the highest level of guest satisfaction. CURATOR OF MAMMALOGY. ..this position will oversee and provide leadership and direction for Zoo Atlanta’s mammal departments. Collaborate with Zoo Atlanta’s education, field conservation research, veterinary, and marketing departments on education and research programs, and exhibit design. Direct Zoo Atlanta’s mammal collection planning and programmatic activities. We are seeking an individual with experience managing animal collections and a strong research background. We will favor candidates with a Ph.D. degree, although Master’s level candidates will be considered. Specialization in conservation biology, behavioral science, physiology, wildlife management, zoology, or related fields is required. Experience in zoo management is highly preferred. Send resume to: Thomas D. LaRock, Corporate Vice President, Human Resources & Administration, 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta, GA 30315; or fax to (404) 624-5943. Check AZA Member Institution job position listings on the AZA Home Page: http:/ / www.aza.org Positions posted with AAZK, Inc. may also be found on our website at www.aazk.org 332 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 7, 2000 AA7K Membership Application check here if renewal [ ] Name _ Address City State/Province Zip □ U.S. Members $35.00 Professional Full-time Keepers □ Canadian Members $35.00 Professional Full-time Keepers □ $30.00 Affiliate Other staff & volunteers □ $35.00 Affiliate Other staff & volunteers □ $30.00 Associate Those not connected with an animal facility □ $60.00 or up - Individuals Contributing/U. S. □ □ $35.00 Associate Those not connected with an animal facility $60 or up - Individuals Contributing/Canada □ □ $100.00 or up Institutional/U.S. Organizations /Institutions (requires Board approval) International Members $50.00 International All members outside US. & Canada regardless of category □ □ $100.00 or up Institutional/Canada Organizations / Institutions (requires Board approval) Library Only 35.00 Library Available only to public & university libraries Zoo Affiliation (if any) Zoo Address Title Work Area □ My check is enclosed (AAZK, Inc.) □ Please charge my credit card MASTERCARD Name on card - VISA Card # Signature -Expiration date Mail this application to: AAZK Administrative Offices, 3601 S.W. 29th, Suite 133 Topeka, KS 66614. Make checks/money orders payable to AAZK, Inc. Must be in U. S. FUNDS ONLY. Membership includes a subscription to Animal Keepers' Forum. The membership card is good for free admission to many zoos and aquariums in the U.S. and Canada. PRINTED IN U.S.A ©2000 AAZK, INC. nimai l\€epGPS i opum I25tli Annivepsapij 1974 - 1999 The Journal of the American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. August 2000 ANIMAL KEEPERS’ FORUM. 3601 S.W. 29th St., Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614 Phone: 1-800-242-4519 (U.S.) 1-800-468-1966 (Canada) FAX (785) 273-1980 AUGUST 2000 Vol. 27, No. 8 Managing Editor: Susan D. Chan • Associate Editors/Enrichment Options Coordinators; Gretchen Ziegler, Sequoia Park Zoo & Jan Roletto, Utah’s Hogle Zoo • Legislative Outlook Column Coordinator; Georgann B. Johnston, Sacramento, CA. • ABC's Column Coordinator: Diana Guerrero, San Diego, CA • Reactions Column Coordinator: William K. Baker, Jr., Frank Buck Zoo, Gainesville, TX Animal Keepers’ Forum (ISSN 0164-9531) is a monthly journal of the American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. Ten dollars of each membership fee goes toward the annual publication costs of Animal Keepers’ Forum . Third Class postage paid at Topeka, KS. Postmaster - Please send address changes to: American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc., 3601 S.W. 29th Street, Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614 - attn; Barbara Manspeaker, Administrative Secretary AAZK Executive Director: Ed Hansen, AAZK, Inc., Topeka KS BOARD OF DIRECTORS Scott M. Wright, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland, OH 44109 Jacque Blessington, Kansas City Zoological Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64132-4200 Diane Callaway, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo, Omaha, NE 68107-2200 Jan Reed-Smith, John Ball Zoological Garden, Grand Rapids, MI 49504-6100 Kevin Shelton, The Florida Aquarium, Tampa, FL 33602 Linda King, Dallas Zoo, Dallas, TX 75203 Bruce Elkins, Indianapolis Zoo, Indianapolis, IN 46222-0309 Ric Urban, Prospect Park Wildlife Center, Brooklyn, NY 11225-3707 President Vice President Immediate Past President COMMITTEES Nominations& Elections Chair - Sheri Leavitt, Galveston, TX Conservation. Preservation & Restoration Grants Chair - Jan Reed-Smith, John Ball Zoo Annual Conferences Coordinator - Ed Hansen, AAZK, Inc. Conference Program Chair Jeffrey Phillips, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Awards Chair - Janet McCoy, The Oregon Zoo MEMBERSHIP SERVICES L.I.N.K. System Kevin Shelton, The Florida Aquarium (Board Oversight) Asst. L.I.N.K. Coordinator Wayne Hazlett, Milwaukee County Zoo Enrichment Committee Chair -Lee Houts, Folsom City Zoo By-laws Chair - Gisela A. Wiggins, North Carolina Zoo Ethics Chair - Janet McCoy, The Oregon Zoo Research/Grants Chair - Jan Reed-Smith, John Ball Zoo Bowling for Rhinos Chair - Patty Pearthree, Cary, NC Marketing Resources/Development David Luce - Oklahoma City Zoo Animal Data Transfer Form AAZK Administrative Offices/Topeka AAZK Historian Mark Levin, Philadelphia Zoo Animal Behavior Management Beth Stark, Toledo Zoo International Outreach - Jeannette Beranger, Roger Williams Park Zoo (Chair/Coordinator International Assistance); Kathy Kelly, Silver Springs, MD - Project M.A.R.C. (Making A Realistic Contribution) PRESIDENTIAL ADVISORS/LIAISONS AZA Liaison Ed Hansen, AAZK Executive Director Elephant Managers Association Liaison Marie Galloway, National Zoo Zoo Registrars Association William K. Baker, Jr., Frank Buck Zoo AZAD Liaison Richard A. Cirelli, Bergenfield, NJ CAZA Liaison Oliver Claffey, Toronto Zoo Int'l Marine Mammals Trainers Association Dave Force, Sea World of California AMAZOO Liaison Alberto Mendoza, Houston Zoological Gardens AZH Liaison Virginia Wall, North Carolina Zoo AAZK PUBLICATIONS - CONTINUING DATA COLLECTION Zoo Infant Development Project - Nell Bekiares, Southern Illinois University (Birds/Passerines) Biological Values for Selected Mammals. 3rd Edition - Jan Reed-Smith, John Ball Zoo o printed on recycled paper with vegetable-based ink products fr - — ^ l'ab(e of Contents About the Cover/Information for Contributors........ ................................... ...334 Scoops & Scuttlebutt..................... ....................... ...................................335 - 336 Coming Events............................................................................. ....337 AAZK Announces New Members...... .......... ....................................................338 ABC's Column: Camel Training,......................................................,......339 - 341 Animal Behavior Management Committee Formed...... .................... .............342 AAZK 2000: Conference Notes and Reminders Pre- and Post Conference Trip Updates.................. ....344 - 345 Reactions Column: Travel Abroad.......................................... .......... .....346 - 347 Book Review {Animal Training: successful animal management through positive ........................................... .348 Center for Ecosystem Survival Reaches $2 Million Milestone............. 349 - 350 CES Marine Conservation Fellowships Announced......................... ..............350 Information Please......................................................,....................................350 Legislative Update.........................,.,.........,............................................351 - 352 Zoo Staff Travels to Africa to Save Wild Penguins.................... .....352 - 354 Enrichment Options (The Power of Scent).......,..................,.................355 - 367 Chapter News Notes........................................................................................ 358 Raising Parent-Reared Kori Bustard at the Dallas Zoo....................... 359 - 360 An Introduction of Lemurs and Flying Foxes at Crystal Garden Conservation Center............. .....361 - 364 Rhinos Recover in Nepal's National Parks .....365 - 366 Opportunity Knocks........................................... .....367 - 368 JABout tfie Cover..... Featured on this month’s cover is ''Chris” a 1.0 Reticulated Giraffe (Giraffa Camelopardalis reticulata) that resides at the Montgomery Zoo, Montgomery, AL. This species’ range is the open woodlands and wooded grasslands of Africa, south of the Sahara Desert. Giraffe are social, living in groups hut not forming permanent herds. Males can range in height from 15-17 ft. tall and weigh between 1215-2600 lbs. Mating can occur year round. Feamles have a gestation period of 453-464 days and usually give birth to one calf This month's cover was drawn by John E. Wyatt III, a Keeper I at the Montgomery Zoo. Thanks, John! Animal Keepers’ Forum publishes original papers and news items of interest to the animal keeping profession. Non-members are welcome to submit articles for consideration. Articles should be typed or hand-printed and double-spaced. Authors are encouraged to submit their manuscripts on a disk as well as in hard copy form. Acceptable formats include: for Macintosh users - Microsoft Word or Works; IBM users - Word for Windows, WordPerfect or Wordstar. All illustrations, graphs, charts and tables should be clearly marked, in final form and should fit in a page size no greater than 5.5” x 8.5” (14cm X 22cm). Literature used should be cited in the text (Brown, 1986) and alphabetically in the final bibliography. Avoid footnotes. Include scientific name (as per ISIS) the first time an animal name is used. Thereafter use common name. Use metric system for weights and measurements (standard equivalents may be noted in parenthesis). Use the continental dating system (day-month- year). Times should be listed as per the 24-hour clock (0800, 1630 hrs. etc.). Glossy black and white or color prints (minimum size 3” x 5” [8cm x 14cm] ) are accepted. Clearly marked captions should accompany photos. Please list photo credit on back of photo. 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 a:s 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 and FAX contributions of late- breaking news or last-minute insertions are accepted as space allows. However, long articles must be sent by U.S. mail. Phone 1-800-242-4519 (US); 1-800-468-1966 (Canada); FAX (785) 273-1980. 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 A 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. Reprints of material appearing in this journal may be ordered from the editor. Back issues are available for $3.00 each. AAZK Website Address: www.aazk.org Bulletin Board Access: type ^‘aazk’^ in member name box; type ‘^Elvis’’ in password box. BFR Websitei http://www.bfr.aazk,org 334 Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 8, 2000 Scoops & ScuttCeButt From the AAZK Enrichment Committee In the December 1999 AKF, the AAZK Enrichment Committee asked members interested in filling vacant committee positions to send a letter of intent and institutional support to the committee. Thank you to all the very qualified applicants who expressed interest and offered to assist the committee in future projects. We are pleased to welcome the following new members to the AAZK Enrichment Committee. Amy Burgess Oakland Zoo PO Box 5238 Oakland, CA 94605 Heidi Fisher Kansas City Zoo 6700 Zoo Drive Kansas City, MO 64132 Dawn Neptune Utah’s Hogle Zoo 2600 Sunnyside Ave. Salt Lake City, UT 84108 Alicia Giesecke Columbus Zoo 9990 Riverside Drive Columbus, OH 43065 Marc Blanchard Cherry Brook Zoo 901 Foster Thurston Drive Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada, E2K 5H9 The AAZK Enrichment and Animal Behavior Management Committees would like to invite delegates to the 2000 National AAZK Conference to share videotapes they have taken of training or enrichment techniques. An evening video session has been scheduled for Monday October 9, from 6-10 p.m. This year, videos will be presented in taxon categories at the following times: 6-7 p.m. Carnivores, 7-8 p.m. Primates, 8-9 p.m. Ungulates, Birds, Reptiles and Misc., 9-10 p.m. Marine Mammals and Fishes. To ensure there is time to view some of all presented videos, please limit your video segments to 10 minutes. Additional footage can be shared at the end of the session or at another time TBA. Please also bring a short written description with an institution/contact name and enough copies to distribute so delegates can follow-up on their interests and inquires. The AAZK Enrichment Committee will be presenting an Enrichment Workshop at the 2000 AAZK National Conference which will focus on “how to document and evaluate your enrichment efforts”. Delegates are encouraged to bring copies of any forms at use at their institutions to share during the workshop. The AAZK Enrichment Committee has written enrichment guidelines for a variety of taxon. These guidelines are available in the AAZK Enrichment Notebook, 2nd edition, on our website at http://enrich.org/aazk or by sending a SASE (64 cents) to Lee Houts, 1118 Sherburn Ave, Sacramento, CA 95822- 10 19. We will be expanding these enrichment guidelines to include Marine Mammals, Fishes, and Elephants. Anyone interested in authoring any.of these guidelines can contact Lee Houts at the above address. —submitted by Lee Houts, Chair, AAZK Enrichment Committee Board Thanks Cleveland AAZK The AAZK Board of Directors and the Administrative Office staff wish to thank the members of the Cleveland AAZK Chapter, Cleveland, OH, for their generous donation of Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 335 $500.00 to the Association’s general operating fund. It is this kind of support from Chapters which allows AAZK to carry forward with its projects and programs. Administrative Office Staff Upgrade Computer Systems Following a directive from the AAZK Board, the staff at Administrative Offices have upgraded their computer systems to allow for more efficient operations. It had been six years since systems were updated, and time (in the computer world) was past due for this transition. We hope you will be patient with us as we learn some new programs and system functions. We will make every attempt to keep things moving along smoothly without interruption in either membership services or the Forum. A Note on the Africa Trip Book your place for Africa now! The AAZK trip has room for only ten people and is already half-filled, so reserve your spot now! You may contact AAZK Administrative Offices for a brochure (1-800-242-4519 for US or 1-800-468-1980 for Canada). Contact New Horizons at 1-800-323-8020 for booking details. Notice on AAZK Workplace Survey Please complete and return your AAZK Workplace Survey by 1 September 2000. The Survey appeared as a pull-out insert in the June 2000 issue o^ Animal Keepers' Forum. You can also complete the survey electronically by accessing the AAZK website at www.aazk.org and then go to the Animal Keepers' Forum portion of the website. We have been pleased with the response thus far, but want to hear from many more of you in order to get a truly representative picture of the zookeeping profession. The last such survey to be run was in 1991, so we need to update statistics on the profession. Executive Director Ed Hansen will be analyzing the results and will publish them in an upcoming issue ofAKF. New E-mail Address for IOC Chair Please be advised that the e-mail address for Jeannette Beranger, Chair of the AAZK International Outreach Committee is now Jeannette is located at the Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence, RI and oversees the IOC programs including the Foreign Keeper Training Workshops and Project M.A.R.C. which sends professionally- relevant books, journals and magazines to zoos in countries where such resources are not available. The M.A.R.C. is administered by Kathy Kelly, Silver Spring, MD. Australasian Workshop Planned for Columbus The Australasian Workshop will again be held at the conference in Columbus. If you have anything you would like to share,(videos, slides or just information) contact Jacque Blessington at Jacsprat65@aol.com. Everyone welcome! Zoo Owner John Aspinall Dies - from Peter Dickinson, ZooNews / Zoo Biology Egroup After a three-year battle with cancer, millionarie zoo owner John Aspinall has died. He leaves a wife, two sons, a daughter and two stepsons. His two great zoos, Howletts and Port Lymphe and legions of gorillas remain as tribute to his dedication to the cause of conservation. Always a controversial figure within the zoo world, one often had to choose whether you agreed with what he said or did or violently disagreed. There were rarely half measures. Whatever the decision, one always had respect for the way he stood up for his beliefs. He will be sadly missed, not only by many people but many animals, too. His passing leaves a void which will not be easy to fill. Those wishing to send condolences to the family and staff may send them to 336 Animal Keepers's Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 Comittg Tvents 21st Annual Conference of the Association of Avian Veterinarians (AAV) - Aug. 29- Sept. 2, 2000 in Portland, OR. To request a registration brochure, complete the form on the conference web page: www.conferenceoffice.com/aav Association of Zoo Veterinary Technicians Annual Conference - Sept. 6-10, 2000 in Orlando, FL. To be held at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL. For conference information contact: Kerri Bolling, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, phone: (407) 938- 2869; e-mail:Kerri.Bolling@disney.com< For AZVT membership info contact: Lisa Cree, CVT, White Oak Conservation Center, 3823 Owens Road, Yulee, FL 32097; e-mail at LisaK@wo.gilman.com American Association of Zoo Veterinarians - Sept. 17-21, 2000 in New Orleans, LA, in conjunction with the International Association of Aquatic Animal Medicine. For additional information, please contact Wilbur Armand, VMD, Executive Director/AAZV, 6 North Pennell Rd., Media, PA 19063; Phone - (610) 892- 4812; Fax - (610) 892-4813; or e-mail at 75634.235 ©CompuServe. com< Association of Zoological Horticulture Annual Conference - Sept. 30-October 4, 2000 in New York City. Will include study trips to Bronx Zoo and three other zoos as well as paper sessons; AZH 20th anniversary party; pre-conference tour to Longwood Gardens, Morris Arboretum and Philad^elphia Zoo. For registration packet contact Rob Halpern, Bronx Zoo (718) 220-5164 or rhalpern @ wcs.org 15th International Zoo Educators’ Conference 1- 6 October 2000Guadalajara, Mexico. For more information contact Maria Eugenia Martinez Arizmendi, Head of the Education Department.Telephone: 0052-3-6744104; Fax: 0052- 3-674-4488; E-mail: 104164.3717@compuserve.com Elephant Managers International Conference - 6 - 9 October 2000 in Syracuse, NY. For more information please contact Adrienne Whiteley on: bpzoo@emi.com Association of Zoo and Aquarium Docents (AZADl - October 11-15, 2000 in Cincinnati, OH. Hosted by the Cincinnati Zoo. Interested parties should contact Norma Cole at 9419 177th Place NW #2, Redmond, WA 93052-6933 or at NcoleOrca@aol.com Panda 2000 International Conference - October 16-19, 2000 in San Diego, CA. Hosted by Zoological Society of San Diego and World Wildlife Fund. A program eonsisting primarily of workshops, panel discussions and poster sessions is planned. Topics in conservation, education, training, research, health, reproduction. and captive management will be covered. For info contact Helena Fitch-Snyder, Zool. Soc. of San Diego, PO Box 120551, San Diego, CA 92112. Phone: (619) 557-3954, FAX: (619) 557- 3959; E-mail: helena@sandiegozoo.org. 23rd Annual International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council Conference - October 25-29, 2000 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Conference theme is "Wildlife Without Borders". For further information contact Mary Reynolds, Executive Director, IWRC, 4437 Central Place, Suite B-4, Suisun City, CA 94585-1633; phone - (707) 864-1761; Fax - (707) 864-3106; e-mail - iwrc@inreach.com; website address:iwrc- online.org< The First Elephant Protected Contact Training and Enrichment Workshop - 2 -5 November, 2000 Presented by Active Environments and hosted by the North Carolina Zoo. For further information contact: active_environs@ix.netcom.com Carnivores 2000; A Conference on Predator Biology and Conservation in the 21st Century - November 12-15, 2000. Hosted by the Defenders of Wildlife at the Omni Interlocken Hotel in Denver, CO. For more information contact: Carnivores 2000, Defenders of Wildlife, 1101 14th St., NW, Washington, DC 20005 or call (202) 789-2844 ext. 315 or e-mail: nfascione@defenders.org< THE GOURMET RODENT TM RATS AND MICE Bill & Marcia Brant 6115 SW 137th Avenue Archer. FL 32618 (352) 495-9024 FAX (352) 495-9781 e-mail: GrmtRodent^aol.com Q All Rights Reserved Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 337 AAZK Announces New Members New Professional Members Tammy Williams, York’s Wild Kingdom (ME); Chris Oufiero and Kristen Schmid, Newark Museum Mini Zoo (NJ); Julie Eder, Baltimore Zoo (MD); Margaret Lavender, North Carolina Zoological Park (NC); Jennifer Ondrish, North Carolina Museum of Life & Science (NC); Carol G.Porter, Butterfly Pavillion (SC); Marcia Fenster, Chehaw Wild Animal Park (GA); Jeff Carter, Jacksonville Zoological Gardens (FL); Kimberly Darville, SeaWorld of Florida (FL); Melanie Perkins, no zoo listed (FL); Mary E. Williams, Hawthorn Corp. (FL) ; Richard Evers, Lion Country Safari (FL); Deborah Abramson, Disney’s Animal Kingdom (FL); Stacy Aaron, Columbus Zoological Gardens (OH); Gregory J. Lipps, Jr., Bill Flanagan and Staci Bekker, Toledo Zoological Gardens (OH); Heather Couch, Milwaukee County Zoo (WI); Renee Weis, Racine Zoo (WI); Erin O’Brien, Audubon Institute (LA); Patricia Hawkins and Stephanie J. Barday, Oklahoma City Zoo (OK); Jennifer Herron- Williams, Dallas Zoo (TX); Lisa D. Timmermann, Delores Diana Sills, Angela L. Haury, Julie A. Rogers and Paul M. Hurtado, International Exotic Feline Sanctuary (TX); Jeremiah J. Diaz, Moody Gardens (TX); Adam Stein, Wildlife World Zoo (AZ); Anthony John Dee, Heritage Park Zoo (AZ); Aimee Dahl, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium (WA); Dario Higgs, Ardastra Garden & Zoo (Bahamas); Mary Bird, Toronto Zoo ( Ontario). Renewing Contributing Members Vernon N. Kisling, Jr. High Springs, FL Kathy DeFalco San Diego Zoo, San Diego, CA Judy Harkelroad Wildlife Safari, Winston, OR New Contributing Members Fran Olson, Elgin, IL Renewing Institutional Members North Carolina Zoological Park, Asheboro, NC Catoctin Wildlife Preserve & Zoo Thurmont, MD New Institutional Members San Francisco Zoological Gardens, San Francisco, CA Caribbean Gardens Naples, FL MOVING? Please let us know when you change your address!! It costs AAZK 990 every time an AKF is returned because of an incorrect address. Call 1-800-242-4519 (U.S. ) or 1-800-468-1966 (Canada) or e-mail aazkoffice@kscable.com to report your new address. THANKS !! 338 Animal Keepers's Forum, VoL 27, No. 8, 2000 ABC ^ Animal behavior Concerns & Solutions A Question and Answer Forum for the Zoo Professional P-y Diana Guerrero, Independent Dehavior Consultant, Ark Animals of California, San Die^o, CA Question Baltic Zoo. Can you help us further with some camel training questions? Answer Sure! Please find that my responses to the questions submitted by this group have been included for review within this column. Remember I can best answer your inquiries if you supply me with some good background information. [See ABC’s AKFYol. 26(6)] How do we start to teach the '‘cush” and should we do it by force using the rope? No, don’t force the behavior. You can use a rope on the foot and a stick, crop, or target to help with this behavior. You want to obtain cooperation voluntarily with some prompting. Use the operant conditioning methods with a voice or tone bridge with this procedure. Consider obtaining one of the videotapes listed [in this column AKF Vol. 26(10)] to see how it is done with llamas or camels. Many use a riding crop to cue the knee and reinforce for bending. You can also capture the behavior (reward when it occurs and pair it with a stimulus/cue). For adult animals see if you can contract a professional to assist you unless you have done this before. She is frisky. Although she is very good tempered and nice, we would like to calm her down especially when she is going around the zoo. How rigorously should we address this? All young camels are frisky and bounce! The younger you start work with these guys the better your chances of obtaining good manners. Teaching limits and nipping bad behavior in the bud before it escalates are your best approaches here. Many trainers do get rigorous on this type of behavior since it can be very dangerous to handlers or the public. To develop a stable and well-mannered animal you need to remember to be consistent, accurately assess what is going on and predetermine the consequences and approaches you will use-and follow through. You can also use a horse with a rider (or use mom — if she is trained) to lead her initially. This takes advantage of the instinct to follow. You want to keep her moving and doing so in a safe manner. Reward with small food tidbits (carrot or sweet feed etc., ) for CALM movements and QUIET behaviors. If you have to do ground work then you will want to use team training methods and two leads that allow you to maintain control and distance. However this poses more risk to the animal and to the handlers. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 339 At what age do you suggest we separate the young animal from the mother'^ I don’t think this is always necessary but that is dependent on your intention for this animal, your management and your facility design. (Many of the camel guys recommend separation.) Check the natural history of the species you are working with to determine optimal times. Generally short separations should occur at a young age and removal around six to seven months or so would reasonable. Ideally you will have a youngster group to integrate this animal into. What is the most suitable age to start teaching her to carry the rider'^ Sometime after training to lead, saddle, and ground work without a rider. You would get into weight bearing 2-2.5 years. This is an age where the animal is physically and mentally adept so that you can avoid stress and injury. Other I talked to an old colleague and another camel specialist (and others) to get their take on things. In general most agree that imprinting the animal or acclimatizing them to people and their handlers/trainers should begin at day one. This creates a trusting and amiable animal. Activities should also include husbandry work (brushing, cleaning (hosing) them, picking up feet, examining any part of the anatomy, etc). The word is that 90% of the work in training this type of animal stems from the foundation you set up early on to make this animal gentle and not afraid. For young animals you could use a small dog collar on the neck from an early age and ease into leading the animal within a week and through about three months. At that time you could introduce a halter and lead with that. Babies don’t have much brain matter yet — so leading them back and forth initially and working with the mother is a good strategy. Teaching them to tie is only done for short periods of time and under strict supervision. They can do some fruit-loop things otherwise. Don’t forget to train the baby to load and unload into a trailer or similar transport medium and get the baby into a wide variety of environments. Many of the camel ride animals you see have been going to events and outings since they were very small. This desensitizes them to a wide variety of noises and other activities and makes them into more stable, calm, and reliable animals. Other behaviors you will want to teach? Lead, load (to trailer or for riders), manners, weight bearing (riding) and other nifty ideas that you may come up with. Cush is popular but was not high on the priority list for one of the guys I chatted with. Generally his take is that if you are going to teach it, do so around six months to a year of age. Resources of Interest Attend the Third Annual Camel Conference & Training School. The next one is scheduled for Spring of 2001. 340 Animal Keepers’s Forum, VoL 27, No. 8, 2000 American Camel Company Route One Box 3648B Sidney, Montana 59270 THE resource for camel related products (training items, tack, camel milk, etc.,) Camel Caravan Magazine Route One Box 3648B Sidney, Montana 59270 US$35 per year subscription. Comes out six times a year and contains a wide variety of information related to camels. Training, products, book reviews, events of interest, history of the animal and more! Acknowledgements Special thanks to Bill Rivers of Movieland Animals and to Jim Hale of the American Camel Company for their assistance and input for this column. (About the Author: Since 1978, ARKANIMALS.COM Director, Diana Guerrero has worked professionally in a variety of animal facilities. Attending and completing courses in both animal management and training from institutions both here in the United States and Europe, she has been affiliated with some of the best organizations. She is an alumni of The Moorpark College Exotic Animal Training & Management Program, The Gentle Jungle Animal Affection Training School, The International Training Centre at the Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust, and special program extensions with Marwell Zoological Park and Kent University. Guerrero started her career in the marine mammal field working as a naturalist, and subsequently became involved with terrestrial animals in zoos and other facilities. Guerrero writes a variety of animal-related columns, including the popular series, Unusual Animal Careers and does seminars nationally. Watch for two of her book projects in the summers of 1999 and 2000! Questions for ABCs should be submitted to Diana directly via e-mail:> arkabc@arkanimals.com< or via regular mail to ARKANIMALS.COM, P.O. Box 1154, Escondido, CA 92033 USA.) Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 341 Mgws Flask ! Animal Behavior Management Committee Formed submitted by Beth Stark, ABM Committee Chair A new AAZK Committee has been formed to address animal training resource needs. A request for resumes of interested members was posted in an earlier edition of AKF. The result of this query is a new Animal Behavior Management (ABM) Committee. The committee consists of six members from six different institutions. In addition, three experts in animal training have agreed to serve as technical advisors to the group. The ABM Committee members are as follows: Jacque Blessington, Board Oversight, Kansas City Zoo Beth Stark, Toledo Zoo, Committee Chair, Toledo Zoo Tom Aversa, Woodland Park Zoo Angela Cecil, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Roby Eisner, Lincoln Park Zoo Kim Kezer, Zoo New England Wendy Shaffstall, Kansas City Zoo Technical advisors: Diana Guerrero, ArkAnimals Gail Laule, Active Environments Tim Sullivan, Brookfield Zoo The Committee is currently working on the following projects: • Workshops on animal training principles and related topics, at AAZK National Conferences • AKF updates/articles on Committee projects and happenings • Developing a glossary of training terms for AAZK members • Compiling sample animal training forms used for planning and documentation of training projects and programs at various zoos • List of training resources (journal articles, websites, videos, etc.) • Database of training projects in US zoos • Adding a training section to the Animal Data Transfer Form (ADT) • Surveying the membership regarding expectations and desires of this Committee • Developing an AAZK animal training web page on the AAZK website. These should keep us busy for a while! We are currently preparing the membership survey, which will be distributed at the AAZK National Conference in Columbus. We are all excited about this new committee and will be working hard to accomplish its goals. Keep your eyes posted for upcoming activities and updates in AKF! 342 Animal Keepers's Forum, VoL 27, No, 8, 2000 nutritional components Comprehensive data sheets tell you each product’s typical nutritional analysis. Specific recipe pages provide exact mixing instructions. The most complete nutritional component system for over 140 common & exotic spe< PetAg, Inc. 261 Keyes Avenue, Hampshire, IL 60140-0396 • www.petag.com For your nearest distributor call 1-800-557-5782 and for technical assistance call 1-800-323-0877. AAZK2000: BEGIMMIMGAMEW MIEEEMMIUM Col umbus Zoological Gardens October 8 - O, 2000 Powell, Ob io Conference Notes and Reminders • Get the most up-to-date info from our website: http://aazk20Q0.homestead.com • DON’T FORGET! September 1st is the deadline to obtain conference rates at the Adam’s Mark Hotel (1-800-444- AD AM, Reference code AAV 007) AND the deadline for registration without paying $25 late fee. See the April or July inserts of the AKF for further information or forms, or visit our website. • Gretchen Bickert has left the Columbus Zoo for the Phoenix Zoo. She will still be assisting us, but please send any emails to Beth Pohl at Bpohl@columbus.rr.com or Bpohl@hotmail.com or call at (614) 645-3400. • If your Chapter would like a table in the exhibitor/sellers’ room please contact Beth to assure you get a space. Cost is $50 for the week. The room will be secure. • We’d still like sponsors!!! The hospitality suite can be sponsored at $250/night. As well the International Outreach Committee is trying to get representatives from other keeper organizations from around the world to attend at Columbus so that we can increase our networking and communication with our international colleagues. We are trying to sponsor registration and hotel costs for these delegates. Any amount you would like to contribute is appreciated. Or, share your room! For further information contact Jeannette Beranger at IOCAAZK@aol.com or Beth Pohl. • The official conference airline is America West. Discounts vary from 5-10% depending on how early you make your reservations. Call 1-800-548-7575, mention Group Code 6363. • Look in the next issue of the forum for a list of papers to be presented in October. Several workshops/chat sessions are planned, including enrichment workshop and rap session, enrichment/training video night, training workshop, international keeper workshop, Australian rap session, conservation workshop. • Our address is AAZK Columbus Chapter, P.O. Box 1256, Powell, OH 43065. Things mailed to the zoo might get lost! 344 Animal Keepers's Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 PRE AMD POST CCMFEPEMCE TRIPS **PRE-CONFERENCE TRIP** CLEVELAND ZOO AND SURROUNDING AREA - Friday, 7 October Overnight trip to the Cleveland area. Buses will depart the Adam’s Mark Hotel at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, 7 October. The day will be spent at the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame, Great Lakes Science Center and the Omnimax Theater. Spend your evening dining on your own in the Flats area of Cleveland. Delegates will then spend the night in the zoo’s Wilderness Cabin. Mats will be provided, but bring a blanket. Saturday will be spent touring the zoo. Buses will depart from Cleveland at 4:00 p.m., arriving at approximately 6:30 p.m. in Columbus. Cost includes: Friday breakfast, overnight lodging, Saturday breakfast, lunch and transportation to and from Cleveland. COST; $45.00 - special thanks to Cleveland Zoo and AAZK Chapter for sponsoring most of this trip! **POST-CONFERENCE TRIPS** THE WILDS - Friday, 13 October Day trip to The Wilds. Buses will depart the Adam’s Mark Hotel at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, 13 October. The Wilds is located in Cumberland, OH and is North America’s largest conservation facility. The tour will include open rangeview of wildlife from around the world. The trip cost includes transportation, light breakfast, lunch, tour of The Wilds and afternoon snack. Return to Columbus the same day, arriving back at the hotel at approximately 5:00 p.m. This trip is limited to 45 people. COST $30.00 THE WILDS & HOCKING HILLS - Friday, 13 October to Sunday 15 October Depart from The Wilds to the Hocking Hills. Includes transportation, dinner, overnight lodging Friday and Saturday, meals on Saturday and breakfast on Sunday. Lodging is at the Woodland Suites at Old Man’s Cave Chalets. Each Woodland Suite overlooks the forest, has a private hot tub, microwave, small refrigerator, stove- top burner and outdoor grill. Each Suite sleeps four people in two double beds. October is an awesome time for hiking and for observing the changing colors. This is truly one of the prettiest areas of Ohio. Return to Columbus Sunday afternoon, arriving at the hotel at approximately noon. This trip is limited to 25 people. COST $175.00 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol 27, No. 8, 2000 345 ^ £ /i C r / O £ £ /f (luestioiaidAismforuHfortktoo Frofessfoia/oiO-mffm^eMaf ^ William K. Baker, Jr, Zoo Curator Frank Buck Zoo, Gainesville, TX Question Are there any special precautions that should be considered before going into the field, especially in other countries? Comments Travel to another country or a distant land can be exciting if handled properly. Every year travelers go abroad looking for adventure through ecotourism or to perform research. For seasoned travelers it’s just another stamp in the passport or notch on the trekking staff. Either way, it’s up to the individual to be aware of the ins and outs of where they’re headed. Research The first step is to do your homework and that starts at the library. There is no reason to buy hundreds of guidebooks on your destination when they are available for free. An additional resource in the library is travel magazines and scientific journals. Find out if anyone you know has been to the country before and what they have to say about their trip. Rely on the expertise of those who have preceded you. Also, if you live in a larger metropolitan area you might take the time to locate individuals who are from the country that you are headed for. Cultural diversity in larger cities makes this an easy task. Simply look for an embassy for the country of your destination. It is often possible to locate individuals through “expatriate” organizations that can help you prepare for your excursion. In short, research, research, and research. Fitness and Health Ask yourself, “Am I in reasonably good physical condition?” When you’re physically fit you tend to have more stamina and are less likely to become ill when traveling. Ideally, you should visit your doctor two months before you leave the country. Advise your physician of your destination so that you can be vaccinated for the appropriate conditions for where you’re headed in combination with a full physical. Be sure to make a note of your blood type and carry it on your person. If you are taking medication, remember to get a letter from the doctor confirming this for custom’s checks and refills if needed. Also, visit your dentist before leaving. If the thought of a dentist at home bothers you, then think about emergency dental care in a Third World country. Passports and Visas Always make sure that you have your passport ready to go at least one month in advance of departure. Check with the consulate for the destination country and insure that you have the appropriate visas for entry and stay, especially if for an extended period of time for field research. Always carry photocopies of your documents in case they are lost or stolen. A duplicate photocopy should be left at home as a last resort, so they can be faxed to your nearest American embassy if needed. 346 Animal Keepers's Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 Money and Packing The cardinal rule for traveling out of country is take one third the amount of clothes that you think you will need and three times the amount of money you believe you might need. The second cardinal rule of packing is if you want it, take it. This especially applies to toiletries and hygiene products, tobacco products, and personal items such as film or camera batteries. Expect to pay significantly more in other countries, if you can find what you are looking for at all. Scientific equipment should be securely packed and locked for the trip. Also, clearly mark your name or facility in English on the container. When carrying monetary funds abroad always keep most of your money in travelers checks and keep some cash on you at all times. Larger bills and travelers checks should be kept in a money belt or a passport pouch around your neck. Smaller bills should be kept in a front pocket for daily meals, tips, and miscellaneous expenses. Pockets should always be buttoned as a precaution against pickpockets. Credit cards are a plug as well and can be a lifesaver when something catastrophic happens. Also, when traveling it sometimes helps to carry multiple currencies. WTien traveling to Latin America, I often carry pesos, marks, and dollars just to be prepared for the region I might be visiting. But, dollars are popular everywhere in the world, just be careful about money exchanging outside of banks, in some countries it’s illegal and you can be arrested. If you get in a bind, funds can be wired through either Western Union® or MoneyGram® virtually anywhere in the world. Give some thought to travel insurance for financial and medical coverage when abroad. Be aware that most insurance doesn’t cover diving accidents, air taxi, and hypobaric chamber treatment. Consider coverage through the Divers Alert Network, (DAN). They have a proven track record for helping divers in need worldwide and your money supports dive safety research. Surviving the Country I’ll take it as a given that if you’re headed to the field for research, study, or ecotourism then it’s probably a Third World excursion. If this is the case be ready for extreme culture shock. You may think that city life has hardened you to the point of apathy and you’re prepared, trust me you’re not. Be aware of beggars, pickpockets, scam artists, expatriates looking for a quick buck, and physical violence. Be street smart and don’t trust anyone you don’t know or hasn’t been formally introduced to you by a friend or colleague. In short, prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Chances are that nothing will happen, but you can never be sure. Absolutely stay away from drugs, organized crime, and black market deals. In many countries these activities can land you up to life imprisonment, it isn’t worth it. As far as personal protection, don’t bring firearms unless prior arrangements have been made with the destination country. Pepper spray is unpopular with the airlines and shouldn’t be a first choice since it could go off in your baggage due to pressure changes in the hold. If I travel and really feel the need for personal defense, I tend to prefer a good knife that can be concealed easily under loose clothing after I get off the plane, (do be aware of local laws). The best advice is to have a local contact incountry to meet you at the airport or train station when you disembark. They can be your instant support system in a distant land. Be aware of local customs, traditions, and the behavior that goes with them. Have prearranged check-ins back home by fax, phone, or hotmail via the Internet to let someone know that your trek is progressing without incident. Most of all trust your instincts, if it feels wrong, then back off. This is what being street smart is all about. Next Month: How do you prepare for a crisis management drill? (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 experiences and training as a Rescue Diver, Hunter Safety Instructor, NRA Firearms Instructor, and Red Cross CPR/ First Aid Instructor.) Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 347 Book ANIMAL TRAINING Successful animal management through positive reinforcement. By Ken Ramirez, Director of Training and Husbandry/Shedd Aquarium ATTN: Merchandising Shedd Aquarium Press 1200 South Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60605 1-888-Sea Stuff Fax; (312) 939-4370 Retail: $86.95 (US$79.95 plus $7.00 tax includes S&H for up to two books) Review hy Diana Guerrero, Director Ark Animals, Escondido, CA As an animal behavior and training professional I am always on the lookout for new tools and resources for my students and clients. This monstrous book (578 pages) is a compilation of training material that would be a great resource for anyone involved in animal training or management. The book actually had its beginnings as a training manual for Ken’s staff back around 1981. Ken Rameriz has written on a variety of training topics and gathered reprints of material from a variety of other trainers to assist his staff and then students. By the time he began teaching a course in animal training in conjunction with Western Illinois University (in 1995) he was using much of the text he had collected for the class. As the work evolved it finally resulted in this book. This tool is easy to use since it was designed to be used in a workable fashion. The content is clear, to the point and compiled into steps. It is organized by training tasks and covers topics related to training, animals, humans, and moves from simpler concepts of training into the more complex. It also includes some other useful resources related to finding jobs, related organizations, and has a good list of training terms along with a couple of useful bibliographies. It would be too difficult to list the many different categories that Ken has placed within this reference and do it justice, so buy the book and explore it yourself! You’ll find the investment worthwhile. 348 Animal Keepers’s Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 Center for Ecosystem Survival Reaches $2 Million Milestone The Center for Ecosystem survival recently surpassed $2 million raised for the purchase and protection of threatened and endangered in-situ ecosystems throughout Latin America and the Asia Pacific regions. Presently there are 105 zoos, aquaria, botanical gardens, natural history museums, and science centers that are consortium participants in the Center for Ecosystem Survival’s in-situ conservation partner- ship programs. These institutions along with their dedicated staff have taken a leadership role in encouraging their members and visiting public to make a direct contribution to saving wildlife in nature. More than 1500 elementary, middle and high schools from all 50 states have paired environmental education programs with fundraising drives to help preserve rainforest and coral reef biodiversity through the Center’s Adopt-An-Acre®, Adopt-A-Reef® and Marine and Rainforest Conservation Meter programs. To date, through the combined efforts of all the zoos, aquaria, school children, and The Nature Conservancy, the Center for Ecosystem Survival has supported the purchase and protection of hundreds of thousands of acres of endangered and threatened habitat in Costa Rica, Peru, Bolivia, Guatemala, Belize, Brazil, Panama, Republic of Palau, Komodo, and the Dominican Republic. Together these areas comprise more than 11 million acres of critically important biological diversity. The Center would like to acknowledge and recognize the following consortium member institutions committed to in-situ conservation: Albuquerque BioPark, Aquarium of the Pacific, Assiniboine Park Zoo, Audubon Park Zoo, Austin Zoo, Baltimore Zoo, Beardsley Zoo, Bergen County Zoo, Blank Park Zoo, Brevard Zoo, Buffalo Zoological Garden, Butterfly Pavilion & Insect Center, Central Florida Zoo, Chaffee Zoo, Charles Paddock Zoo, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Cincinnati Zoo, Cleveland Metro Park Zoo, Columbus Zoo, Como Zoo, Dallas World Aquarium, Dallas Zoo, Denver Zoo, Detroit Zoological Park, Dickerson Park Zoo, El Paso Zoo, Erie Zoological Park, Flower Garden Banks National, Marine Sanctuary, Folsom Children’s Zoo, Fullerton Arboretum, CSUF, Great Plains Zoo, Happy Hollow Zoo, Henson Robinson Zoo, Honolulu Zoo, Houston Zoo, Indianapolis Zoo, International Game Fish Association, Jacksonville Zoo, Jenkinson’s Aquarium, John Ball Zoo, John G. Shedd Aquarium, Kansas City Zoo, Knoxville Zoo, Lake Superior Zoo, Lee Richardson Zoo, Lincoln Park Zoo, Little Rock Zoo, Los Angeles Zoo, Louisville Zoo, Lowry Park Zoo, Mesker Park Zoo, Micke Grove Zoo, Mill Mountain Zoo, Milwaukee County Zoo, Missouri Botanical Garden, Monterey Bay Aquarium, National Aquarium Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 8, 2000 349 CENTER FOR ECOSYSTEM SURVIVAL in Baltimore, National Zoo, Nature Discovery Center, Nauticus Marine Center, New Jersey State Aquarium, North Carolina Zoo, Oakland Zoo, Oklahoma City Zoo, Omniplex Science Museum, Philadelphia Zoo, Phoenix Zoo, Pittsburgh Zoo, Pt. Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Rainforest Cafe, Reid Park Zoo, Reston Animal Park, Riverbanks Zoo, Riverside Zoo, Roger Williams Park Zoo, Ross Park Zoo, Sacramento Zoo, Saginaw Children’s Zoo, Salisbury Park Zoo, Sammy’s Pet World, San Antonio Zoo, San Francisco Zoo, Santa Barbara Zoo, San Diego Zoo, Seattle Aquarium, Sedgwick County Zoo, Seneca Park Zoo, Sequoia Park Zoo, South Carolina Aquarium, Staten Island Zoo, Sunset Zoo, Topeka Zoo, Tracy Aviary, Tulsa Zoological Park, UnderWater World, Utah’s Hogle Zoo, Valley Zoo (Canada), Vancouver Aquarium, Walk-in-the-Wild Zoo, Wildlife West, Woodland Park Zoo, and Zoo New England. The Center for Ecosystem Survival is dedicated to creating global partnerships to inspire broad-based participation in the preservation of biological diversity through ecosystem protection worldwide. For more information about the Center for Ecosystem Survival’s programs contact the Center for Ecosystem Survival, Department of Biology, San Francisco State University, 1600 Holloway Ave., San Francisco, CA 94132; (415) 338- 3393; Fax (415) 338-2295; e-mail:ecosystm@sfsu.edu Center for Ecosystem Survival Announces Marine Conservation Fellowship Recipients The Center for Ecosystem Survival recently received a $5,220.00 grant from the Tulsa Zoological Park Conservation Fund (C ARATZ) to fund two Marine Conservation Fellowships to study leatherback turtles in Costa Rica. We are very pleased to announce the first two recipients of the grant are Sherrie Floyd, Senior Aquarist, New England Aquarium; and Noel Turner, Department of Biology, San Francisco State University. The Conservation Fellowship recipients receive a $500.00 stipend, air fare and room and board for six weeks to work with leatherback turtles {Dermochelys coriacea) in the Gandoca/ Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge in Costa Rica. Research will consist of collecting information on nesting behavior of the turtles, tagging, removing eggs to safe location for protection until hatched, working in the hatcheries, patrolling the beach, monitoring the nests and releasing turtles to the wild. Information Please I would like to have feedback on whether it is safe to use a handful of fresh pine needles (“pine straw”) to wipe out water bowls before rinsing and refilling. It certainly makes them look clean and algae-free. Please respond to: Elizabeth Mungall, Research Assistant, ZOOWORLD, Zoological & Botanical Conservatory, Inc., 9008 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach, FL 32407. 350 Animal Keepers's Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 Update/ Compiled by Georgeann Johnston Legislative Advisor Sacramento, CA Australians Protest ESA Listing of Koala in U.S. In the last issue of this column, we reported that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) had decided to list the Australian Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. The mammal is only found in Australia and populations have declined in the past few years due to loss of over half of its native habitat. Representatives from both Australia and the United States petitioned the USFWS in 1994 to list the animal as endangered and provided documentation verifying declines in populations. As with all listings, the Service received comments from the public, governmental agencies, educators, scientists and other persons between 1994 and 1998. All agencies of the Australian government opposed the listing. Their justification can be summed up in a statement from Colin Griffiths, the head of the National Parks and Wildlife in Australia: “We have yet to see any explanation of how the listing of the koala in the United States would contribute to koala conservation.” He also noted that koalas do not meet the requirements for listing species that are endangered or vulnerable under Australian law. According to Griffiths, scientific authorities in Australia have determined that the koala is relatively widespread and abundant and is not likely to go extinct in the next two decades. The Australian branch of the Association of Zoological Parks and Aquaria - the equivalent of our AZA “ also found no basis for the listing. The Koala Taxon Advisory Group and the U. S. AZA also stated that they could find no evidence in support of listing the koala as either endangered or threatened. The debate continues, with the USFWS taking the position that someone must look out for the best interest of this marsupial and the Australian contingent claiming that the U. S. has no business cannot justifiably presume to tell Australia how to manage its lands. Source: On Wings: a Monthly Publication Serving the Avicultural Community May 2000, vol. 6, no. 5 House Passes Bill to Ban Circus Animals On 22 June 2000, the House of Representatives narrowly passed a bill banning the use of animals in circus performances. The bill, sponsored by Representative Pires (D ~ RI) would bar anyone outside of am accredited zoo from using live lions, tigers, bears or elephants in a performance or display. The bill passed 50-43. Opponents of the bill, including Representative Kennedy (D - RI) stated that it unfairly discriminates against the circus industry. “There has never been a documented case of abuse of the animals in Rhode Island” he said. “This will end the circus as we know it in the state.” Under the terms of the bill, violators would face a fine of up to $5,000 per animal or a prison sentence of up to a year. The animals would also be banned from use in movies. Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 351 television shows or other performances, unless done through a zoo. The bill should go to a Senate committee by late summer. Source: MSNBC Online 22 June 2000 House Approves Plan to Decrease Shark Slaughter Every year, fishermen kill approximately 60,000 Pacific sharks for their fins. The remainder of the carcasses or dying bodies are thrown back into the ocean. In response, the House moved on 7 June 2000 to stop that practice, voting 390-1 to ban shark finning in all U. S. federal waters extending 200 miles from American shorelines. The measure will now go to the Senate for its consideration. The measure is aimed primarily at Hawaiian longline fishing boats engaged in the lucrative practice of harvesting fins for sale in Asian nations where shark’s fin soup is a delicacy. The fins of blue shark that are a by-catch of tuna fishing are sliced off and the dead or dying fish, which are of little other commercial value, are then dumped overboard. Shark finning has been banned in the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico since 1993, but it is only in the past decade, with a dramatic rise in Asian demand for shark fins, that attention has turned to the Pacific. The Ocean Wildlife Campaign, a coalition of conservation groups, says the number of sharks killed by Hawaiian longline fishing climbed from 2,000Jn 1991 to 61,000 in 1998. Dried shark fins are reportedly worth up to $40 a pound in Asian markets. Source: Bergen Record News Online (Associated Press) 7 June 2000 Zoo Staff Travels to Africa to Save Wild Peng uins Excerpted from a Baltimore Zoo News Release (71 11100) by Andrea J. Keller plus additional info from phone interview and material from 10 July Associated Press story by Mike Cohen. At the request of South African wildlife authorities, Baltimore Zoo Bird Curator Steve Sarro traveled to that country to assist in the rescue of 17,000 adult penguins and 300 chicks affected by a recent oil spill. Staff members Sharon Overholser (Sr. Bird Keeper) and Dr. Mike Cranfield (Chief Veterinarian) were also scheduled to travel to South Africa in rotating shifts to help with the crisis. In addition to the Baltimore Zoo staff members, a team of 40 international experts have been flown in by the International Fund for Animals to manage the penguin reahbilitation centers. On 23 June, a Panama-registered oil tanker released more than 1,300 tons of fuel oil and 130,000 tons of iron ore when it sank off the coast of Cape Town, South Africa. Thousands of African penguins (Spheniscus demersus) - a threatened species - were affected by the spill. Oil slicks can render a bird’s feathers useless, and can also trap them, causing suffocation and death. Because the tanker was of independent registry, 352 Animal Keepers's Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 there is little liklihood of any insurance settlement to offset the huge expenses associated with the rescue efforts. Steve reported that on 10 July there were approximately 20,000 oiled birds, which translates to about 40% of the entire African penguin population being affected. Wildlife officials are calling it the “biggest coastal bird disaster ever.” Some 300 volunteers, many untrained civilians, are helping in the rescue effort. However, just getting the oil cleaned from the birds’ feathers, an exhausting process which takes up to one hour per bird, does not end the problem. The birds must be kept out of the water and monitored for approximately two months after cleaning before their feathers reetablish their waterproofing ability. More than 300 blue plastic pools serve as the penguins’ homes until their release. For 14 hours a day, volunteers move among the birds coaxing small fish down their throats. Another separate enclosure serves as a nursery for 400 fluffy chicks. Though not tainted by oil, they were separated from their parents and need to be fed by hand for about a month before they will be ready for their first sea voyage. More than 10,000 untainted penguins have been evacuated from their island home off Cape Town’s coast, driven eight hours east and released into the ocean for the long swim home. Wildlife experts hope the trip takes them at least ten days-long enough so the majority of the oil spill will have dissipated by their return. Less than one percent of the birds have died as a result of the spill and onsite veterinarians say the rehabilitated birds have a good chance of surviving. Tony Williams, South Africa’s leading penguin expert, estimated that it will take at least five years for the population to recover, assuming it is not faced with any further major disasters. “We have years of experience managing the zoo’s African penguin population, and contributing to research in the wild,” said Baltimore Zoo Executive Director Roger Birkel. “We have a responsibility to these birds. We will be there to help rescue them from the damages of the oil spill.” Home of the most prolific African penguin breeding program in the U.S., The Baltimore Zoo has been working with penguins since 1967, successfully raising more than 800 chicks and populating exhibits around the world. Steve Sarro coordinates the African Penguin Species Survival Plan (SSP), managing the entire genetic and demographic pengion population in the U.S. His team makes regular breeding recommendations to zoos nationwide. The Baltimore Zoo is also the leading zoo researching avian malaria. Since 1978, Baltimore Zoo veterinarians and keepers have been working alongside Johns Hopkins University to study the parasite and its ecology. Following extensive research with the wild penguin population. The Baltimore Zoo hopes to share its groundbreaking research with zoos and other penguin caretakers, most especially the South African Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 353 National Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), which rescues thousands of birds every year from oil spills. African penguins once numbered more than three million in the wild. Now, fewer than 180,000 birds populate the islands. This is estimated to be about ten percent of what the population was 100 years ago. Habitat loss, and avian malaria threaten the dwindling population. The clean-up effort is a massive one and funds are running low. Anyone wishing to assist financially may do so by sending their donations to: WWF Penguin Appeal, WWW-SA, PO Box 456, Stellenbosch 7595 South Africa. “It is our mission to serve wildlife,” said Berkil. “Zoos not only present opportunities to connect, understand and appreciate nature, but also opportunities to preserve it.” Visit the penguin rescue website at www.uct.ac.za/depts/stats/adu/ African Penguins (Spheniscus demersus) in their exhibit at The Baltimore Zoo. The Baltimore Zoo is home of the most prolific breeding program for this species in the U.S. (Photo courtesy of The Baltimore Zoo) 354 Animal Keepers's Forum, VoL 27, No. 8, 2000 HMENT f‘J#Y'Behavioral Enrichment TIONS'^^^-p-S^'Xp.y By Gretchen Ziegler, Sequoia Park Zoo and Jan Roletto, Utah's Hogle Zoo The Power of Scent Olfactory enrichment is the most challenging work for our Enrichment Team, and until recently, the least successful. Unknowingly, we were missing a very special ingredient, a scent that would create a significant response in animals. This special scent was discovered quite by accident, when Keeper Ann Orn attended the AAZK Conference in Portland, OR last year. A paper was presented from Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Florida, addressing the use of different stimuli and training aids. One scent in particular, Angelfire™ perfume (distributed by Mary Kay Cosmetics), was mentioned as an intoxicating scent for their six female tigers on exhibit. After viewing the accompanying video, it was felt this perfume could be used to enrich our cats. Disney was questioned if Angelfire™ had been tried on male cats. Apparently, through trial and error, the perfume was used exclusively on females. It was suggested that we try Angelfire™ on a variety of cats and other animals, documenting our results. Highly skeptical, but intrigued, we acquired some of the magical perfume and planned for the next enrichment day. Armed with spray bottles of diluted Angelfire and cameras for documentation, we headed for Shikar, the Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris). Previously, rope was wrapped around his favorite tree, to encourage clawing, face rubbing, and scent-marking. The Enrichment Team sprayed the rope with perfume and introduced a small tire, also scented, as a novelty toy. The test was planned at feeding time to make it easier for the keepers, as well as more accessible to the team. Shikar consumed part of his meal, but to our amazement, he was distracted by a strange smell. The tiger caught the scent of Angelfire™ and immediately demonstrated flehmen. Shikar straddled the roped tree, rubbing his face and body as if in abandoned ecstasy. The scented tire was next, which he tossed in the air, rolled around, and licked to taste the Angelfire™. Shikar was transformed into a tiger cub. Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol 27, No. 8, 2000 355 1.0 Bengal tiger Shikar investigating Angelfire^^ scent on log and rope in his exhibit. (Photo by Marie Baldwin) Inca, the Jaguar {Panthera onca), one of our most difficult cats to enrich, was our next test case. The vertical pole in his enclosure was also wrapped with rope. This seemed the obvious target for Angelflre™. The consensus was the perfume probably wouldn’t cause a reaction in this independent cat, for food was his passion. We were wrong. He got a whiff of his pole and mounted it with sheer delight. Witnessed by the Enrichment Team and the keepers, Inca proceeded to drool long ropes of saliva as he literally ravished the wooden pole. Our black jaguar kept the flehmen grimace on his face for the duration. Eventually, he grew tired of being the center of attention and resumed eating. Who would have thought that a scent designed for humans could have such a profound effect on our wild zoo cats! —Linda Kocar, Enrichment Team Member Heritage Park Zoo, Prescott, AZ (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. Eds.) 356 Animal Keepers's Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 [ 1.0 Jaguar Inca investigating Angelfire™ his exhibit. (Photo by Marie Baldwin) scent on post and ball in You are invited to submit material for the Enrichment Options Column. This might include recipes, toys, puzzle feeders, olfactory enrichment ideas, etc. Drawings and photos of enrichments are encouraged. Send to: AKF ! Enrichment Options, 3601 S.W. 29th St., Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614. Visit the new AAZK Enrichment Website - www.enrich.org/aazk or to join the Enrichment Listserve by e-mailJackbell@humboldtl.com An archive of past postings can be viewed at www.caza.org/enrich. i.> Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 357 Chapter News Notes Memphis AAZK Chapter Greetings from Memphis! The Memphis AAZK Chapter is having a busy year already In February we hosted our annual Mating Game fundraiser where Richard Meek gave a wonderful talk on courtship rituals in the animal kingdom while guests snacked on delicious appetizers. In early April we helped out with the Memphis Zoo Spring Plant Sale and sold plant-related items to patrons. We have also been getting ready for Bowling for Rhinos which is coming up soon. We will be bowling for two nights at a local bowling alley, and will be using this as an opportunity to educate the public about conservation with animal-related artifacts and information. Our Junior Zoo Keeper Program is going strong as well. The kids were out for their Spring program in May where they learned about the Horticulture Department. They finished up with a farewell picnic in June, where we also welcomed a new group of kids for next year. Also in June, we hosted our “Who’s in the Zoo after Dark” event. Our new officers for 2000 are: Co-Presidents Kim Bailey and Vicky Brown Vice-Presidents Carolyn Horton Treasurer Knox Martin Secretary Jennifer Healy Junior Zoo Keeper Coordinator Sonia Holmes Sacramento Zoo AAZK Chapter The Sacramento Zoo AAZK Chapter is sponsoring its 3'’'^ Annual Gray Whale Discovery Trip to Laguna San Ignacio, Baja, California Sur from 6-10 February, 2001. This is an up-close experience with not only gray whales, but also scores of bird species, sea lions, dolphins, and sea turtles. The Lagoon is a United Nations World Heritage site that was recently spared from the construction of a Mitsubishi salt evaporation plant due to a world-wide effort by environmental organizations to keep the area from being developed. Accommodations are in a safari-style, solar-powered camp. Cost is $1,795.00 (based on double occupancy) departing from San Diego. For information, call Kathy Gee at (916) 264-8817 or e-mail kathyg@saczoo.com< Featured below is the Sacramento Zoo AAZK Chapter logo which was adopted in January of 1998 and designed by Kathy Gee. — Kathy Gee, Treasurer Detroit AAZK Chapter The Detroit Chapter of AAZK is pleased to introduce their new logo which was designed by Rob Waters and adopted in May 2000. We tried to include members from each animal group and also key in on our major exhibits at the Detroit Zoological Institute. — Heather Camphell, President 358 Animal Keepers’s Forum, VoL 27, No. 8, 2000 Raising Parent-Reared Kori Rnstard at the Rallas Zoo By Jocelyn Womack, Senior Bird Keeper Dallas Zoo and Aquarium Dallas, TX Anyone who has worked with kori bustard (Ardeotis kori) knows the difficulty that lies with trying to produce parent-reared offspring. The inherent shyness and nervousness of these birds can make having a female that is comfortable enough to copulate with a male, lay an egg, and then incubate that egg for the full incubation period seem impossible. In 1991 the Dallas Zoo, in coordination with the opening of its award-winning Wilds of Africa exhibit, devoted considerable resources and off-exhibit space to the breeding of kori bustards. At that time we maintained 2.3 birds. Our kori bustard yards consist of five separate pens, the largest measuring approximately 10m x 20m (32.8 ft. x 65.6 ft.). The other four pens are about half the size of the largest pen. Each pen is separated by what we call “pop-gates”. These consist of a small entrance hole that is about 28cm high (11 in.). They are large enough for the females to pass through but are too small to allow the passage of the larger males. Each of our males is given a separate pen as its own territory, and the females can pass freely among all five pens. We have plenty of space for each female to theoretically set up her own territory and the pop-gates allow the females to visit either male as well as give them a place to “escape” in the event of an overly aggressive male. In 1994, our oldest male and female produced a fertile egg. Because of the importance of this egg and its potential chick, and to insure its safety, the egg was pulled for artificial incubation. That year we became the first zoo in the western hemisphere to successfully hatch a kori bustard chick. This chick was hand-raised. Although that bird did very well as a hand-raised individual, our goal was to produce a parent-reared chick. The advantages to a parent-reared chick are many. Two obvious advantages come to mind: first, that a parent-reared chick is more likely to want to reproduce with its own species, and is more likely to be accepted as a potential mate. Secondly, considerable time must be devoted to a hand-raised chick. Parent-raising allows staff to focus more of their time on other projects. In 1995 we again had the same pair of birds produce a fertile egg. Again, to insure the safety of the egg, it was pulled for artificial incubation. At 20 days it pipped and was placed back under the female who had been incubating a “dummy” egg. At that time all other females were removed from that area and the pop-gates were closed. At day 21 this egg hatched. The female successfully raised this chick, a male, and we became the first zoo in the western hemisphere to produce a parent-reared chick. In 1998, we continued our parent-rearing when once again the same pair of birds produced a female chick. This chick arrived after nearly three years with no offspring produced and many infertile or non-viable eggs. We had nearly given up on this female producing offspring again. After several eggs were pulled for artificial incubation and found to be infertile, an egg was left with her to allow her to sit and prevent her from recycling. To our surprise, a chick appeared 21 days later, and the first parent-incubated offspring was produced. In 1999 we introduced a new female to the breeding group. This bird had been held Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 359 alone on exhibit since her arrival at Dallas in 1994. The two years prior to her introduction she had defended a territory, made a nest scrape and laid an egg, all without access to a male. In 1999, our older female parent once again went back to her old nest area and laid two eggs, our first two-egg clutch. The new female decided that she also liked that area and repeatedly displaced the older bird from her eggs. After several days of this we pulled the eggs for artificial incubation as the older bird was not able to incubate consistently. These eggs were replaced with dummies, which the older bird kept going back to, despite the aggression from the new female. After about two weeks of this, the new female made a scrape and laid two eggs approximately two meters (6.6 ft.) from the older bird’s nest. They both incubated for several more days, with the aggression continuing, until we were able to put up a dividing fence between the two. One of the older female’s eggs died in the shell, we think, because of the inconsistent incubation in the early stages of its development. (The second egg in her clutch was six days younger than the first and only experienced one day of this poor incubation, and so survived.) In 1999, we produced three parent-reared offspring: a male from our older female, and two females from the younger bird. Thirteen-year-old 1.0 Kori bustard shown feeding two approximately two-week old chicks at the Dallas Zoo. Photo by Robert Cabello As of this writing (5/2000), the Dallas Zoo is the only institution in the western hemisphere to have successfully produced parent-reared kori bustards. We attribute our success to several factors. First, our breeding group is kept in an off-exhibit areas with no visitor traffic and limited staff traffic. Secondly, as the breeding season starts, we allow the vegetation in the birds’ pens to overgrow. This growth gives the females many places to hide and may add to their feeling of security. Next, the pop-gates and access to several yards gives each female a territory and a safe place to get away from each other and the males. And finally, at the hatching of any chick all other birds are removed from the yard, and access thorough the pop- gates is stopped. Kori bustards are predatory in the wild, and the possibility exists that other adults might eat a new chick. Currently our flock size is eight birds, consisting of two adult males, three adult females, one yearling male, and two yearling females. We are confident that the techniques we use now will allow us to continue to produce parent-reared offspring. 360 Animal Keepers's Forum, Vol 27, No. 8, 2000 An InTKoducnon op leojURS and Flying Foxes ar CnysToL Ganden Consenvanon Cemen By Denise Lucy Wilkinson, Animal Keeper, Crystal Garden Conservation Center, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada This introduction was to see if these species of lemurs and flying foxes could cohabitate peacefully together. It was also used as a test project to eventually house Rodrigues fruit bats (Pteropus rodricensis) with lemurs in place of flying foxes. Behavioral data was collected measuring social interactions and exhibit use between the species. Subjects The lemurs: three male ring-tailed lemurs {Lemur catta), one male black and white ruffed lemur (Varecia variegata) and one male red ruffed lemur {Varecia variegata rubra) were introduced together into our Madagascar exhibit in 1998. The lemurs range in age from two to eighteen years old. Our flying foxes {Pteropus giganteus), four males and two females are approximately between six months to ten years of age. Exhibit Our indoor Madagascar exhibit is 73.67 sq. metres (792 sq. feet). It has four water pools, four grass regions, and several planted areas. The enclosure has numerous artificial and natural branches to allow for movement, resting sites and visual barriers. The visitor area has a glass front and the top, sides and back of the exhibit is nylon wire fencing. There is also fencing down the width of the center of the exhibit which separates the enclosure into two. An artificial hollow log passes through the middle of the fencing to allow the lemurs to pass through to each side at will. There are numerous artificial hollows which the lemurs sleep in at night. Introduction An enclosure adjacent to the Madagascar exhibit is where our flying foxes are housed. In January 1999, fighting occurred between two adult male flying foxes. One of the males was at this point separated from the group by keepers. There was prior discussion by keepers to eventually house Rodrigues fruit bats in the Madagascar exhibit. At this point we decided to go ahead and introduce the flying foxes first as a test project with the lemurs to see how they would get along. The one lone bat was introduced first onto the C,D side of the exhibit (see map - Figure 1). At first the lemurs were indeed very curious about the bat and on many attempts approached close to smell him and even touched noses. One of the ring-tailed lemurs tried to intimidate the bat by running up to him, only to stop about 60 cm. (2 feet) in front of him. When the bat had enough of this, he simply did a quick wing flap which sent the lemur off in the opposite direction. As the rest of the flying fox group were housed adjacent to the Madagascar exhibit the bats were still able to have visual and vocal communication with the lone bat. After six weeks of monitoring the single bat with the the lemurs everything seemed to be positive. Keepers decided to then move the remaining five flying foxes into the Madagascar exhibit. Before the introduction all the bats were weighed and microchipped for identification. Once again fighting immediately occurred between the same two male bats. The original male was then again removed but only to the other side of the enclosure, A,B side. The bats still have physical contact through the wiring and are able to retreat at will. ! ■ Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 361 Ring-tailed lemur (Lemur catta) and Rodrigues fruit bat (Pteropus rodricensis) at feeding tray. (Photo by Denise Lucy Wilkinson) Procedure Behavioral data was collected on the lemurs and flying foxes from the visitor viewing area at the front of the exhibit. Approximately 10 hours of preliminary data was conducted for the final ethogram. Data was collected using a 1 minute scan sampling method (Altmann, 1974). Observations were recorded on the same day of every week for 14 weeks. Behavioral data was recorded on those days between 1400-1600 hrs. Three, ten- minute intervals were conducted: one half hour before feeding (see Fig. 2), during feeding (see Fig. 3) and one half hour after feeding times. The ethogram for data collection included rest, locomotion, aggression, feeding, quadrants A,B,C,D and other. Social behaviors including aggressive and nonaggressive interactions were recorded, as well as proximity of individuals during resting periods. To get an understanding of enclosure use by individuals, the enclosure was broken into four quadrants. Results The data has shown that little aggression occurred among the species. The lemurs showed no aggression or antagonistic behaviors with the bats. In turn, the bats showed only 30% aggression which was toward other bats during feeding times. During resting periods the fl3dng foxes and lemurs had particular areas which they preferred. The lone bat utilized mostly quadrant (A) at the back of the enclosure while the rest of the group preferred the front of the enclosure in quadrant (D). During more active periods the lone male bat and a younger male would communicate physically through the center wiring in a nonaggressive manner. The ring-tailed lemurs preferred to rest at the front of the exhibit in quadrant (B), while the ruffed lemurs rested at the back in quadrant 362 Animal Keepers's Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 (C). During active times the lemurs moved all around the exhibit utilizing all the space. The fl5dng foxes also moved all around on their side^ but were not able to move freely from side to side as the lemurs. Conclusion I feel that this introduction with these species and individuals has been positive. There are a few important factors I believe helped. As most of the aggression was during feeding times, keepers provided several food dishes spread out and at different heights within the exhibit which separated the animals during feeding. Secondly exhibit design helped to separate animals when necessary but at the same time allowed those animals to still communicate with each other and still be part of the exhibit. One problem we had was making sure all animals had enough to eat but also to not overfeed. The ring-tailed lemurs particularly would investigate others food dishes and pick out choice pieces for themselves. We use to use hanging dishes for the bats but changed to small stationary ones as the lemurs would dump the food out. Continuous monitoring by keepers and providing numerous small amounts of food around the enclosure does help. The combination of multiple species in a single enclosure can provide a stimulus to the animals through contact with each other. As long as the contact is nonantagonistic it can have a positive effect on the physical and mental health of the animals (Thomas, 1996). Combining species in the same enclosure also presents a more interesting and educational display for the public as well as providing space for animals on exhibit when space may otherwise be limited. Figure 1. Map of Madagascar Exhibit at Crystal Gardens Conservation Center* Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 363 Acknowledgments I would like to thank John Creviston for his encouragement in this project. Also keepers Jessie Senecal and Alishia Schnarr for their cooperation and assistance. References Altmann, J. 1974. Observational study of behavior: sampling methods. Behavior 49:227-267.6 Thomas, Warren D. and Edward J. Maruska 1996. Mixed-species exhibits with mammals, 204-210. IN Wild Mammals in Captivity, principles and techniques. D.G. Kleiman, M.E. Allen, K.V. Thompson and S. Lumpkin, eds. University of Chicago Press, Chicago, IL 60637. 364 Animal Keepers’ s Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 Rhinos Recover in Nepal's National Parks By Deepak Gajurel Environment alNews Service New Delhi, India Nepali environmentalists and government officials are seeing years of nature conservation work pay off in an increased number of Greater Asiatic one-horned rhinoceros {Rhinoceros unicornis) living in Nepal's national parks. Hunted to near extinction for their horns which bring high prices on the Asian medicinal and Arab ornamental markets, rhinos in Nepal's protected areas have now begun to recover. The population of endangered rhinos is now 612, according to Rhino Count 2000, the government's rhino census report released 31 May. An estimated 450 one-horned rhinos were found roaming in the country's protected areas in 1994 when the first scientific rhino count was conducted. Royal Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO's World Heritage Site that is one of the world's best rhino habitats, has the greatest number of rhinos - 544 according to the new census. A similar census conducted in 1994 put the one-horned rhino population in Chitw^an at between 446 and 466. Royal Chitwan National Park in central Nepal is the indigenous habitat for one-horned rhino, while other protected areas are relatively new habitats for animals. Since 1986, the Nepal government have been trans-locating rhinos from Chitwan National Park to Bardiya and Shukla Phanta national parks. The latest census counted 67 rhinos in Royal Bardiya National Park in the western Terai, the southern plains region of Nepal. Bardiya, which lies 500 kilometers (310 miles) west of Chitwan, received its latest group of 10 rhinos translocated from Chitwan Park two months ago. A lone rhino is wandering in the Royal Shukla Phanta Wildlife Reserve in the far western region of the country, the census found. Dr. Tirtha Man Maskey, director general of the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, says the government is contemplating trans-locating a few Chitwan rhinos to Shukla Phanta Wildlife Reserve in the far western region of the country "so as to maintain viable population of the endangered mammals." Though a high incidence of rhino death has been observed in the past several years, wildlife officials are hopeful that the population of this highly endangered wild speciies will continue to go up. Days before the census began on 2 April , officials put the rhino death toll in and around the Chitwan National Park in the past 20 months at over 60. Initiated by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, the Rhino Count 2000 was supported by the King Mahendra Trust for Nature Conservation, the World Wide Fund for Nature and the United Nations Global Environmental Facility. The finding of the census has recorded the rhino population growth rate in Chitwan at 3.88% , up from 3.7% in 1994 rhino count. Of the 544 rhinos recorded in Chitwan, 492 are surviving inside the 932 square kilometer park while the number of rhinos living outside in the park's buffer zone has been put at 52. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 365 The 1994 census had put the rhinos inside Chitwan Park at 411 and those outside at 29. Officials say that "armed security guards have been put on alert in the parks' surrounding villages to ensure safety of the rhinos roaming and residing outside the protected area." They claimed that anti-poaching units too have been alerted and strengthened to keep track of the activities of poachers. Since their introduction five years agoi anti-poaching units have been a successful initiative for the protection of wildlife in Nepal. Dr. Maskey says of the rhinos surviving in Chitwan, 62 % (337) are adults, 16 % (88) sub-adults and 22 % (119) are calves. In Bardiya National Park, 57 % (38) are adults, 30 % (20) are sub-adults and 13 % (9) are calves, he said. Dr. Maskey believes that the rhino population will continue to increase. "Higher female population in both parks will "definitely help the number to go further up" in the years to come," he predicted. In 1950, the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation found about 800 one- horned rhinos in the Chitwan valley. But the population nose-dived in the following years due to rampant poaching. The population went from 300 in 1959 to just 100 in 1966. But after the government's declaration in the early 1970s of Chitwan forest as Nepal's first national park, the rhino population started to increase. As a result of strict wildlife conservation laws, enforced by the security forces in the protected areas, the rhino population went up to 300 animals in 1978. The one-horned rhino, which was found in abundance from Pakistan to Myanmar at the turn of the 20th century, today survives in a handful of protected areas in Nepal and in India's West Bengal and Assam states. The rhino population in India is estimated at 1,300. 366 Animal Keepers's Forum, Vol 27, No. 8, 2000 Institutions wishing to advertise employment opportunities are asked to send pertinent data by the 10th of each month to: Opportunity Knocks! AKF, 3601 S.W, 29th St,, Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614 Please include closing date for positions available, and when setting these dates keep in mind that because of bulk-mail, most readers do not receive the AKF until the middle of the month or later. There is no charge for this service and fax or e-mail listings of positions which become available close to deadline are accepted. Our fax is (785) 273-1980; e-mail: akfeditor@kscable.com< We are no longer located at the Topeka Zoo, so please note new address! ENTERTAINMENT SUPERVISOR.,. ImmediRte Opening. Responsible for the day to day operations of the Entertainment Department, working in conjunction with the Assistant Manager and General Curator. This is a supervisory position. The Entertainment Supervisor will perform all shows as necessary or directed, as well as assist in the development of new shows and programs. Entertainment Supervisor will assist in training of personnel and animals. Must have great leadership skills and animal behavioral training background. Gatorland is looking for individuals who can work with a team. Please send or fax resume to: Human Resources, Gatorland, 14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32837. Fax (407) 826-0345. Position open until filled. KEEPER AIDE and Zoo Maintenance Moonridge Animal Park is accepting applications for beginning level positions in the Keeper area and maintenance. The park is located in the Alpine environment of Big Bear Lake, CA and exhibits 54 species and 137 specimens of reptile, bird, and mammal. Keeper Aides will assist in the care of a diverse group of wildlife including grizzlies, snow leopards, wood bison and more. Maintenance opening will be responsible for grounds care, minor construction and related duties. The positions start at $6.25 and $6.00 respectively. Applicants must apply on the San Bernardino County employment application. Application and flyer announcement may be obtained from the Big Bear Valley Recreation and Park District at (909) 866-0130, P.O. Box 2832, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315. Caribbean Gardens, the zoo in Naples, FL is seeking qualified applicants for the following two (2) positions. Successful candidates should be willing to work weekends, holidays and participate in occasional special events within and outside the zoo grounds. Must be able to lift 501bs. Will possess a valid Florida driver’s license, a negative TB test and recent tetanus shot. Benefits include paid vacations, insurance and profit sharing plan. Salary based on prior experience and/or education. Send resumes to? Caribbean Gardens, Human Resources, 1590 Goodlette Rd., Naples, FL 34102; Fax to (941) 262-6866; or e-mail to: info@caribbeangardens.com< Also, visit our website at www.caribbeangardens.com KEEPERIED UCATI ON DEPT. . . .requires an A.S. or B.S. degree in a biological science and/ or a minimum of one (1) year’s paid experience in a zoological environment. Applicant will be responsible for the daily husbandry, care, feeding, observation and record keeping for small mammals, birds and reptiles. Members of the Education Dept, present multiple public presentations daily. Must have exceptional communication skills and work well in a team environment. Basic animal handling experience is essential. Computer skills are needed for participation in a live animal/multi-media show. KEEPERIMAMMALS, ..requires an A.S. or B.S. in a biological science and/or a minimum of one (1) year’s experience in a zoological environment. Will be responsible for the daily husbandry, care, feeding, observation and record keeping for small mammals, primates and hoofstock. Basic canoeing skills are required in order to maintain primates living in an island environment. Applicant must be a self-starter and able to work without supervision. Will participate in daily “Meet the Keeper” programs. ANIMAL CARETAKERIKEEPER,,,at a private facility in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Immediate opening, full-time position available working with big cats. Unique work environment on this stunning six-acre compound that includes rock formations and waterfalls on premise. Duties include animal husbandry, handyman tasks, ground maintenance as well as hands-on involvement with the animal residents. Cats are leash-walked and rotated from 1/4 acre habitats on a daily basis. Nights/weekends/holiday rotations. Benefits include health insurance, paid vacations, bonuses, and meals after acceptance into permanent position following three-month probationary period. Must be able to pass in-depth background check. Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 8, 2000 367 Salary determined on an individual basis depending on skill level, minimum $23-25k. Applicants must be athletic, and physically fit, alcohol and drug free! Animal experience given priority/animal interest a must! Job is physically demanding requiring the ability to lift at least 50 lbs. Will fly in serious, out-of-state inquiries for position at compound’s expense. Serious inquiries with long-term intent please respond with resume and cover letter by fax to (954) 252-8188. NO PHONE CALLS, PLEASE. ASSISTANT ED UCATI ON COORDINATOR... assists in directing the Zoo Education Program by developing programs; supervising and training volunteer Docents to present programs; and supervising the teenage zoo explorer post. Supervise and assist in the care and training of the education animal collection. Requires at least two (2) years of college coursework in zoology, biology, natural sciences or related; and at least two (2) years of experience in a zoo setting or handling and training exotic and domestic animals or related; OR equivalent training and experience. Current salary range is $20,604,00 to $31,100.00. Submit cover letter and resume with employment dates and job duties by 5:00 p,m.^ 15 August, 2000 to: City of Little Rock Human Resources, 500 West Markham #130W, Little Rock, AR 72201-1428; or Fax (501) 371-4496 or e-mail HR-Emplovment@littlerock.state.ar.us< Submitted resumes will be subject to disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act. EOE. For information call (501) 371-4590 or visit our website: www.littlerock.org EDUCATIONAL SPECIALIST. . .This full-time, with benefits position will be responsible for maintaining the education animal collection, behavior training of the collection, instructing staff and volunteers on handling live animals, and developing/presenting education programs including animal shows, zoomobile programs and exhibit talks. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Education, Biology, Zoology or a related field, two (2) years experience with exotic animals, and experience performing in and training animals for shows and presentations. Ability to obtain a valid California driver’s license, excellent public speaking skills, and experience with environmental education also required. Must be available weekends, evenings and holidays. Salary commensurate with experience. Please send resume/cover letter to: Lara Kirkendall, Outreach Coordinator, Sacramento Zoological Society, 3930 West Land Park Dr., Sacramento, CA 95822. ANIMAL KEEPERIHerpetoloffv Dept..., requires one (1) year professional experience working with a diverse collection of reptiles and amphibians. A Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate field is preferred. Responsible for the daily husbandry/propagation of the collection, record keeping, and the maintenance of exhibits and facilities. Please send/fax cover letter, resume, and three (3) references to: Anthony Wisnieski, Curator of Reptiles and Amphibians, The Baltimore Zoo, Druid Hill Park, Baltimore, MD 21217; Fax (410) 545-7397. EOE. ANIMAL KEEPER,..two (2) full-time positions with benefits. Minimum requirements are high school diploma and 1-2 years’ experience in a zoological institution or related field, a college degree is preferred. Will be responsible for collection of animals at either The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere or the Nashville Zoo Breeding and Quarantine facility. General knowldge of mammal/avian husbandry and strong communication skills required, may specialize in a select order. Closing date is 25 August 2000. Please submit a letter of intent and resume to: William B. Harris, Animal Husbandry Manager, Nashville Zoo at Grassmere, 3777 Nolensville Rd., Nashville, TN 37211 or Fax to (615) 333-0728. COLLECTIONS MANAGERIMammals,.,vequirQS a BS in biology or related degree, three (3) years varied experience with mammals, and well-developed organizational/interpersonal/ communication skills. Will be working supervisor that includes direct animal care and supervision of staff. This person is responsible for the overall daily operation of the mammal section and participates in staff hiring, training, scheduling and performance evaluation. Will perform animal care duties, record keeping and assist with veterinary procedures. This person must exhibit leadership qualities and be able to work both independently and as part of a team with effective time-management skills. Send resume to: Celia Falzone, Ellen IVout Zoo, 402 Zoo Circle, Lufkin, TX 75904. Check AZA Member Institution job position listings on the AZA website: http:! / www.aza.org Positions posted with AAZK, Inc. may also be found on our website at www.aazk.org (go the Animal Keepers' Forum, then to Opportunity Knocks) 368 Animal Keepers's Forum, Vol 27, No. 8, 2000 AA7K Membership Application check here if renewal [ ] Name _ Address City State/Province Zip □ U.S. Members $35.00 Professional Full-time Keepers □ Canadian Members $35.00 Professional Full-time Keepers □ $30.00 AffiUate Other staff & volunteers □ $35.00 Affiliate Other staff & volunteers □ □ $30.00 Associate Those not connected with an animal facility $60.00 or up - Individuals Contributing/U.S. □ □ $35.00 Associate Those not connected with an animal facility $60 or up - Individuals Contributing/Canada □ □ $100.00 or up Institutional/U.S. Organizations / Institutions (requires Board approval) International Members $50.00 International All members outside U.S. & Canada regardless of category □ □ $100.00 or up Institutional/Canada Organizations /Institutions (requires Board approval) Library Only 35.00 Library Available only to public & university libraries Zoo Affiliation (if any) Zoo Address Title Work Area □ My check is enclosed (AAZK, Inc.) □ Please charge my credit card MASTERCARD Name on card _ VISA Card # Signature -Expiration date Mail this application to: AAZK Administrative Offices, 3601 S.W. 29th, Suite 133 Topeka, KS 66614. Make checks/money orders payable to AAZK, Inc. Must be in U. S. FUNDS ONLY. Membership includes a subscription to Animal Keepers' Forum. The membership card is good for free admission to many zoos and aquariums in the U.S. and Canada. PRINTED IN U.S.A ©2000 AAZK, INC. 1974 - 1999 33 0 1^ c D 03 0 < o' 0 U 0 JQ C 0 0 0 a ’M CO & O 3 i.: :=r :■ ' 'k ' 7 ■ I'f- r^- u = '- : ^ v 'i !■ ■ • 5: 1 3 r-* .5. j -J :y - '■ i ii C 3 :^' J- - v_: JK I i i J 7- h~5 n i 7 ! ’ V r.’J >3 s "3 ,7- .4: Ui P ” V c- 3> 1 * :t- o < -- *?' • SB ^ f' a r~- 3 Ch m a* M U] B d. X H- >" # & n >S r- rs 3> d. if: ^:5 iSi » >7 n 2,- “0 O' O Kh 4i >0 M o Siiii W GO 3 ANIMAl KEEPERS' R U M The Journal of the American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. September 2000 ANIMAL KEEPERS’ FORUM. 3601 S.W. 29th St., Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614 SEPTEMBER 2000 Phone: 1-800-242-4519 (U.S.) 1-800-468-1966 (Canada) FAX (785) 273-1980 ^ Managing Editor: Susan D. Chan • Associate Editors/Enrichment Options Coordinators: Gretchen Ziegler, Sequoia Park Zoo & Jan Roletto, Utah’s Hogle Zoo • Legislative Outlook Column Coordinator: Georgann B. Johnston, Sacramento, CA. • ABC's Column Coordinator: Diana Guerrero, San Diego, CA • Reactions Column Coordinator: William K. Baker, Jr., Frank Buck Zoo, Gainesville, TX Animal Keepers’ Forum (ISSN 0164-9531) is a monthly journal of the American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. Ten dollars of each membership fee goes toward the annual publication costs of Animal Keepers’ Forum . Third Class postage paid at Topeka, KS. Postmaster - Please send address changes to: American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc., 3601 S.W. 29th Street, Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614 - attn: Barbara Manspeaker, Administrative Secretary AAZK Executive Director: Ed Hansen, AAZK, Inc., Topeka KS BOARD OF DIRECTORS Scott M. Wright, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland, OH 44109 Jacque Blessington, Kansas City Zoological Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64132-4200 Diane Callaway, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo, Omaha, NE 68107-2200 Jan Reed-Smith, John Ball Zoological Garden, Grand Rapids, Ml 49504-6100 Kevin Shelton, The Florida Aquarium, Tampa, FL 33602 Linda King, Dallas Zoo, Dallas, TX 75203 Bruce Elkins, Indianapolis Zoo, Indianapolis, IN 46222-0309 Ric Urban, Prospect Park Wildlife Center, Brooklyn, NY 11225-3707 President Vice President Immediate Past President COMMITTEES Nominations& Elections Chair - Sheri Leavitt, Galveston, TX Conservation. Preservation & Restoration Grants Chair - Jan Reed-Smith, John Ball Zoo Annual Conferences Coordinator - Ed Hansen, AAZK, Inc. Conference Program Chair Jeffrey Phillips, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Awards Chair - Janet McCoy, The Oregon Zoo ■By.-l.aws. Chair - Gisela A. Wiggins, North Carolina Zoo Ethics Chair - Janet McCoy, The Oregon Zoo Research/Grants ;V Chair- Jan Reed-Smith, John Ball Zoo ‘ Bowling for Rhinos , ' . Chair - Patty Pearthree, Cary, NC ' ■ . Marketing Resources/Development . ■ David Luce - Oklahoma City Zoo MEMBERSHIP SERVICES L.I.N.K. System Kevin Shelton, The Florida Aquarium (Board Oversight) Asst. L.I.N.K. Coordinator Wayne Hazlett, Milwaukee County Zoo Enrichment Committee Chair -Lee Houts, Folsom City Zoo Animal Data Transfer Form AAZK Administrative Offices/Topeka AAZK Historian Mark Levin, Philadelphia Zoo Animal Behavior Management . ■ Beth Stark, Toledo Zoo International Outreach - Jeannette Beranger, Roger Williams Park Zoo (Chair/Coordinator International Assistance);, Kathy Kelly, Silver Springs, MD - Project M.A.R.C. (Making A Realistic Contribution) ^ • PRESIDENTIAL ADVISORS/LIAISONS AZA Liaison Ed Hansen, AAZK Executive Director Elephant Managers Association Liaison Marie Galloway, National Zoo Zoo Registrars Association William K. Baker, Jr., Frank Buck Zoo AZAD Liaison Richard A. Cirelli, Bergenfield, NJ CAZA Liaison Oliver Claffey, Toronto Zoo Int’l Marine Mammals Trainers Association Dave Force, Sea World of California AMAZOO Liaison . . Alberto Mendoza, Houston Zoological Gardens AZH Liaison ,’ ’ 7 Virginia Wall, North Carolina Zoo ■ . AAZK PUBLICATIONS - CONTINUING DATA COLLECTION Zoo Infant Development Project - Nell Bekiares, Southern Illinois University (Birds/Passerines) Biological Values for Selected Mammals. 3rd Edition - Jan Reed-Smith, John Ball Zoo O printed on recycled paper with vegetable-based ink products liable of Contents About the Cover/Information for Contributors............................. Scoops & Scuttlebutt...................................................................... PapersA¥orkshops to be Presented at 2000 AAZK Conference.... Coming Events............................................................................... AAZK Announces New Members................................................... ABC's Column: Masia giraffe........................................................ Indy Zoo Announces Second AI Elephant Birth....... Elephant Reproductive Monitoring Training Video Produced..... Reactions Column: Preparing for Crisis Management Drill........ Random Organization: Organizing the Enrichment Program at the Regenstein Small Mammal and Reptile House at Lincoln Park Zoo...................................................................... Riddle's Sanctuary Announces Elephant Pregnancy.................. Legislative Update.......................................................................... Spotlight onP roject M.A.R.C.......................................... ............... A Overview of Training Staff and Rhinoceros for Ultrasonography Procedures................................................. Chapter News Notes.................................... Enrichment Options Column (Hide Roll-Ups)............................. Rare Amur Leopard Born at Exotic Feline Breeding Compound Wolf Awareness Week.................................................................... Bear Conference Proceedings Online........................................... Book Reviews {Sperm Whales and International Crane Foundation President/CEO to Retire......... Opportunity Knocks....................................................................... ..........370 ...........371 .372 - 374 ..........375 ..........376 ,377 - 381 .382 - 383 ..........383 .383 - 385 .386 - 389 ...........389 ,390 - 394 ...........395 ,.396 - 401 ...........401 ...........402 ,.403 - 406 ...........407 ...........407 .408 - 409 ...........409 .410 - 412 S^.bout the Cover This month’s cover features the Indian One-horned Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) drawn hy Kiran Moktan, a keeper at the Padmaja Naidu Himilayan Zoo in India. Unlike its African counterpart, this rhino spe cies is distinguished hy its single horn and its unusual skin patterns which resembles plated armor. These plates consist of many small warts arranged like scales and attached to a base of flexible tissue. The color of this species varies from dark gray to a reddish brown. The average shoulder height is 1.67m (5.5 ft) with a weight up to 3628kg (8,000 lbs.) Young are horn singly after a gestation of 17-18 months. These vegetarians prefer a habitat near water. Thanks, Kiran! Animal Keepers’ Forum publishes original papers and news items of interest to the animal keeping profession. Non-members are welcome to submit articles for consideration. Articles should be typed or hand-printed and double-spaced. Authors are encouraged to submit their manuscripts on a disk as well as in hard copy form. Acceptable formats include: for Macintosh users - Microsoft Word or Works; IBM users - Word for Windows, WordPerfect or Wordstar. All illustrations, graphs, charts and tables should be clearly marked, in final form and should fit in a page size no greater than 5.5” x 8.5” (14cm X 22cm). Literature used should be cited in the text (Brown, 1986) and alphabetically in the final bibliography. Avoid footnotes. Include scientific name (as per ISIS) the first time an animal name is used. Thereafter use common name. Use metric system for weights and measurements (standard equivalents may be noted in parenthesis). Use the continental dating system (day-month- year). Times should be listed as per the 24-hour clock (0800, 1630 hrs. etc.). Glossy black and white or color prints (minimum size 3” x 5” [8cm x 14cm] ) are accepted. Clearly marked captions should accompany photos. Please list photo credit on back of photo. 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 and FAX contributions of late- breaking news or last-minute insertions are accepted as space allows. However, long articles must be sent by U.S. mail. Phone 1-800-242-45 19 (US); 1-800-468-1966 (Canada); FAX (785) 273-1980. 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. Reprints of material appearing in this journal may be ordered from the editor. Back issues are available for $3.00 each. A AZK Website Address: www.aazk.org Bulletin Board Access: type “aazk” in member name box; type “Elvis” in password box. BFR Website: http://www.bfr.aazk.org 370 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 Scoops & Scuttlebutt AAZK Chapters Donate to Endowment Fund and IOC The AAZK Board of Directors would like to thank the following AAZK Chapters for their recent donations to the AAZK Endowment Fund: Memphis AAZK Chapter, Memphis Zoo & Aquarium, Memphis, TN, $1000.00; and the Central Illinois AAZK Chapter, Henson Robinson Zoo, Springfield, IL, $100.00. We also wish to acknowledge the following donations which have been made by AAZK Chapters and/or Institutions to the AAZK International Outreach Committee: Point Definance AAZK, Tacoma, WA, $50.00; Fort Worth AAZK Chapter, Fort Worth, TX, $50.00; Portland Chapter AAZK, Portland, OR, $200.00 Detroit AAZK Chapter, Detroit, MI, $200.00; Greater Cleveland AAZK Chapter, Cleveland, OH, $1000.00; and the Cleveland Zoological Society, Cleveland, OH, $500.00. These funds will be used to assist with the expenses of foreign keepers who are coming to the Columbus AAZK Conference for the First International Keeper Meeting. IOC Chair Jeannette Beranger, Roger Williams Park Zoo, Providence, RI, has been coordinating this effort and we hope to welcome keepers from several foreign countries at our Conference next month. Input Sought by Employee Recognition Team The Lincoln Park Zoo has started up an Employee Recognition Team. We are looking for information from other recognition teams that might help us make it a successful venture. Some of the things we are looking to reward employees for are: loyalty and commitment, teamwork and responsiveness, innovation, and community service. Information on what kinds of rewards (gift certificates, cash, time-off, etc.) are given, situations they are given for, ways of acknowledging the employees, etc, would be greatly appreciated. Please tell us your successes and your not so successful attempts. Please send information to; Mike Skidmore at zookpr@compuserve.com or call at (312) 742-7680, or by mail to: Mike Skidmore, 3631 W. Eddy, Chicago, IL 60618, or see me in Columbus at the AAZK Conference. Animal Educators and Bird Keepers E-Groups Established A listserve/bulletin board for animal educators has been established to discuss the many problems facing educators including animal dispositions, the best animals to use in education, new animals and general animal education topics. It can be accessed at http://www.egroup.com/group/ANIMAL-EDUCATORS< AAZK member Jeremy Taylor, a bird keeper at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, has created a new email list for bird keepers in the zoological setting, as well as other individuals with an involvement in aviculture. Interested individuals may join the list by sending a blank message to: birdkeepers-subscribe@egroups.com or by going to http:// www.egroups.com/group/birdkeepers< This list will serve as an information exchange for providing responsible care for birds held in captive situations. Please note that this list is an independent undertaking and is in no way associated with Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Correction In the July 2000 issue of Animal Keepers’ Forum, under the Book Review section, the editor of Ratite Management. Medicine and Surgery was incorectly identified as Thomas N. Jully, Jr. His correct name is Thomas N. Tully, Jr. Our apologies for this typographical error. Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 9, 2000 371 PapersAVorkshops to be Presented at 2000 AAZK National Conference Paper Title Presenter/ Author 1 . Memorable Presentations of Applied Behavior Analysis Catherine J. Crawmer American Animal Trainer Magazine 2. To In-Situ or Not In-Situ Norm Gershenz Center for Ecosystem Survival 3. Innovations in Animal Record Keeping: The Use of Technology to Make Record keeping More Efficient Jeff Phillips Disney’s Animal Kingdom 4. Behavioral Conditioning of a Pair of Cotton-top Tamarins to Increase the Potential of Appropriate Parental Care Kim Zirpolo Zoo New England/Franklin Park Zoo 5. Guidelines for Training and Conditioning Protocols for Captive Duikers Joseph Robertia Wildlife Survival Center at St. Catherine’s Island 6. A New Training Program for Old World Monkeys: Black and White Colobus Dodi Seiver Disney’s Animal Kingdom 7. FIV Disease or Not Pat Currie Columbus Zoo & Aquarium 8. Operant Conditioning of Lowland Tapirs for Purpose of Blood Collections Sheila Barrios Audubon Zoo 9. Introduction of an All-male Group of Wooly Monkeys ’ Silvia Zirkelbach Louisville Zoo 10. Organizational Techniques to Foster Consistency in Animal Training Programs Angi Millwood Disney’s Animal Kingdom 1 1 . Response to Medical Crisis : A New Approach to Orangutan Husbandry at the Pittsburgh Zoo Michelle Farmerie Pittsburgh Zoo 12. International Outreach Jeannette Beranger Roger Williams Park Zoo 13. Otter Interest Group Jan Reed-Smith John Ball Zoo 1 4. Enrichment / Training Video Session Lee Houts Folsom City Zoo 1 5. Bowling For Rhinos - So You Want to Know Where Does The Money Go? Patty Pearthree National BFR Chair 16. Temporary Separation from Group Members and Its Effects on the Relationships Between Western Lowland Gorillas Hiroko Yoshida Kawasakaki University of Medical Welfare 372 Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 9, 2000 17. Using Graphics to Promote Enrichment Lee Houts Folsom City Zoo 18. Environmental Enrichment of Asian Elephants at the Detroit Zoo Barbie Kellner & Erin Forth Detroit Zoo 19. Overcoming Constraints in Training Individuals in a Large Mandrill Group Shauna Mullins-Cordier, Dawn Safranek-Leonard & Dodi Seiver Disney’s Animal Kingdom 20. Raising Penguins from Scratch Diane Olsen & Paula Kolvig The Aquarium at Moody Gardens 2 1 . Managing a Geriatric Gorilla: A Keeper’s Perspective Denise Wagner San Diego Wild Animal Park 22. Photo Identification of King Penguins Beth Borchardt The Aquarium at Moody Gardens 23. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Gorilla Surrogacy Program Dusty Lombardi; Barb Jones & Maureen Casale Columbus Zoo and Aquarium 24. Human / Parental Rearing of a Hamadryas Baboon Jan Weinig and Jamie Le Blanc Washington Park Zoo 25. A Recycle Story Judy Harkleroad Wildlife Safari 26. Recycling Program Fund-raiser Paul Martin Fort Worth Zoo 27. Growth Rates for King Penguins Hand-reared on Solid Foods Paula Kolvig & Diane Olsen The Aquarium at Moody Gardens 28. An Overview of Training at Lincoln Park Zoo’s Great Ape House Roby Eisner Lincoln Park Zoo 29. Quarantine on Exhibit - A Success Story Susanne Guthrie Audubon Zoo Park-AHCC Monica Olivera Fort Worth Zoo Amy Keyes & John Barcza Disney’s Animal Kingdom Nicki Boyd San Diego Zoo 33. Initiation of a Howler Monkey Training Program Meg Hudson-Dye & Marie Perez Lincoln Park Zoo 30. The Zoo Keeper Evolution: Specialization or Generalization? An Outreach Perspective 3 1 . Mixed Species Exhibtry - A Study in Temporary Housing 32. Using Tractable Animals to Convey Conservation Messages Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 373 34. Husbandry and Veterinary Procedure Training at Disney’s Animal Kingdom: A Model for Role Clarification and Consensus Bruce Upchurch Disney’s Animal Kingdom 35. Gorilla Caesarean Section at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Mary Jo King Columbus Zoo and Aquarium 36. Set-up of a 250-Gallon Coral Propagation Tank Julie Vest Aquarium at Moody Gardens 37. How to Negotiate on Behalf of 235,000 Species and Save Tropical Wildlands Norm Gershenz Center for Ecosystem Survival 38. Update on Lewa Wildlife Conservancy Chris Thouless Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Kenya 39. Techniques for Making Impressions of Paw/ Hoof prints Karen Huebel Columbus Zoo and Aquarium 40. Blue Bunny Enrichment Day Jacque Blessington Kansas City Zoo 41. Public Education : From a Keeper’s Point of View Rob Yordi Sea World San Antonio 42. Enriching Hoof Stock - A Tricky Business Kelly Thomas Detroit Zoo 43. Going Green What Does it Mean? Judy Munro Oregon Zoo 44. Genetic Analysis of the Captive Giraffe Amy Burgess Oakland Zoo 45. Supplemental Feedings of a Dam-raised Sumatran Tiger Cub at The Phoenix Zoo Tracey McNamara The Phoenix Zoo 46. Pseudopregnancy in Grey Wolves Judy Loeven Oregon Zoo 47. A Profile of Progesterone Excretion During Pregnancy in Gelada Baboons Florence Klecha & Colleen McCann Wildlife Conservation Center/Bronx Zoo 48. Training & Enrichment Workshop Beth Stark/Toledo Zoo 49. Australasian Workshop Jacque Blessington/Kansas City Zoo 50. How To Document Enrichment Efforts - AAZK Enrichment Committee Lee Houts/Folsom City Zoo 5 1 . Enrichment Rap Session Lee Houts/Folsom City Zoo vSee Yo u in CZ^olumlDus ! 374 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 Coming Events Association of Zoo Veterinary Technicians Annual Conference - Sept. 6-10, 2000 in Orlando, FL. To be held at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL. For conference information contact: Kerri Bolling, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, phone: (407) 938- 2869; e-mail:Kerri.Bolling@disney.com< For AZVT membership info contact: Lisa Cree, CVT, White Oak Conservation Center, 3823 Owens Road, Yulee, FL 32097; e-mail at LisaK@wo.gilman.com American Association of Zoo Veterinarians - Sept. 17-21, 2000 in New Orleans, LA, in conjunction with the International Association of Aquatic Animal Medicine. For additional information, please contact Wilbur Armand, VMD, Executive Director/AAZV, 6 North Pennell Rd., Media, PA 19063; Phone - (610) 892- 4812; Fax - (610) 892-4813; or e-mail at - 75634.235 ©CompuServe. com< Association of Zoological Horticulture Annual Conference - Sept. 30-October 4, 2000 in New York City. Will include study trips to Bronx Zoo and three other zoos as well as paper sessons; AZH 20th anniversary party; pre-conference tour to Longwood Gardens, Morris Arboretum and Philadelphia Zoo. For registration packet contact Rob Halpern, Bronx Zoo (718) 220-5164 or rhalpern @ wcs.org 15th International Zoo Educators’ Conference - 1- 6 October 2000 Guadalajara, Mexico. For more information contact Maria Eugenia Martinez Arizmendi, Head of the Education Department.Telephone: 0052-3-6744104; Fax: 0052-3-674-4488; E-mail: 104164.3717@compuserve.com Elephant Managers International Conference - 6 - 9 October 2000 in Syracuse, NY For more information please contact Adrienne Whiteley on: bpzoo@emi.com Association of Zoo and Aquarium Docents (AZAD) - October 11-15, 2000 in Cincinnati, OH. Hosted by the Cincinnati Zoo. Interested parties should contact Norma Cole at 9419 177th Place NW #2, Redmond, WA 93052-6933 or at NcoleOrca@aol.com Panda 2000 International Conference - October 16-19, 2000 in San Diego, CA. Hosted by Zoological Society of San Diego and World Wildlife Fund. A program consisting primarily of workshops, panel discussions and poster sessions is planned. Topics in conservation, education, training, research, health, reproduction, and captive management will be covered. For info contact Helena Fitch-Snyder, Zool. Soc. of San Diego, PO Box 120551, San Diego, CA 92112. Phone: (619) 557-3954, FAX: (619) 557- 3959; E-mail: helena@sandiegozoo.org. Chimpanzoo Annual Conference - October 1 8- 22, 2000 The Jane Goodall Foundation, Tucson, AZ. For information contact Virginia Landau, Chimpanzoo Director, The Jane Goodall Institute, Geronimo Bldg. #308, 800 E. University Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85721. Phone: 520-621-4785; fax: 520-621-2230; e- mail: vlandau@u. arizona.edu or at website: http://www.u. arizona.edu/~vlandau/home.htm 23rd Annual International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council Conference - October 25-29, 2000 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Conference theme is "Wildlife Without Borders". For further information contact Mary Reynolds, Executive Director, IWRC, 4437 Central Place, Suite B-4, Suisun City, CA 94585-1633; phone - (707) 864-1761; Fax - (707) 864-3106; e-mail - iwrc@inreach.com; website address:iwrc- online.org< The First Elephant Protected Contact Training and Enrichment Workshop - 2 -5 November, 2000 Presented by Active Environments and hosted by the North Carolina Zoo. For further information contact: active_environs@ix.netcom.com Carnivores 2000: A Conference on Predator Biology and Conservation in the 21st Century - November 12-15, 2000. Hosted by the Defenders of Wildlife at the Omni Interlocken Hotel in Denver, CO. For more information contact: Carnivores 2000, Defenders of Wildlife, 1101 14th St., NW, Washington, DC 20005 or call (202) 789-2844 ext. 315 or e-mail: nfascione @ defenders. org< r QOthe GOURMET RODENT ry RATS AND MICE Bill & Marcia Brant 61 15 SW 137 th Avenue Archer, FL 32618 (352) 495-9024 FAX (352) 495-9781 e-mall: GrmtRodentdaol.com D All Rights Reserved Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 9, 2000 375 AAZK Announces New Members New Professional Members Alesia Nataupsky, EcoTarium (MA); Bridget M. Schiff, Brandywine Zoo (DE); John Thompson, Jacksonville Zoo (FL); Chris Blair, Chehaw Wild Animal Park (GA); Lisa Haifa, Santa Fe Teaching Zoo (FL); Sandra Lynch-Bakken, Brevard Zoo (FL); Michelle Leonard, Avicultural Breeding Center (FL); David R. Smith, Toledo Zoo (OH); Gretchen Ann Friedmann, Detroit Zoological Institute (MI); Michelle Bowen, Binder Park Zoo (MI); Gene Emer, Milwaukee County Zoo (WI); Anthony M. Nielsen, Lincoln Park Zoo (IL); John W. White, Jr., and Melissa Cushman, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo (NE); Paul D. King, Heritage Zoo (NE); Bill McDowell, Audubon Park Zoo (LA); Jan Raines, DVM, and Gray Lang, Dallas World Aquarium (TX); Kimberly Keith, Ft. Worth Zoo (TX); Michele Setter, Texas State Aquarium (TX); Jennifer Harron, Santa Ana Zoo (CA); Mary Spence, Sea World of San Diego (CA); Kaaren R. Kolodziej, Rare & Wild Presentations, Inc.; Tammy Batson, San Diego Zoo (CA); and Sara McNutt, Wildlife Associates (CA). MOVING? Please let us know when you change your address! It costs AAZK 99 cents every time an AKFis returned because of an incorrect address. Call 1-800-242-4519 (U.S.) or 1- 800-468-1966 (Canada) or e-mail aazkoffice@kscable.com to report your new address. THANKS! Renewing Contributing Members Debra Burch, Miami, FL Marilyn R. Lemrow San Diego Zoological Society Patron, San Diego, CA Renewing Institutional Members Sea World Orlando, Orlando, FL Sherry Branch, Curator South Florida Prosimian Enrichment Center, Orlando, FL Jason Abels, Director New Institutional Members Caribbean Gardens Naples, FL Busch Gardens Tampa, FL 376 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 27, No. 9, 2000 ABC's Animal Behauior Concerns & Solutions A Question and Answer Forum for the Zoo Professional By Diana Guerrero, Independent Behavior Consultant Ark Animals of California, San Diego, CA Behavior Evaluation: American Zoo. Masai Giraffe (Giraffa Camelopardalis) Question We are having some trouble with training o\iy giraffes (Giraffa Camelopardalis). We notice a variation between our animals and are not sure how to move through our current impasse. Can you give us some ideas? Discussion The current situation involves training multiple animals. Some of the behaviors desired are cooperative behavior into a chute, movement down a corridor, and more behavioral control in order to get voluntary cooperation for husbandry work such as exams, blood draws, footwork, shots, etc., As a flight animal the giraffe can be very sensitive. A few of the animals appear to have reacted adversely during the construction of the restraint chute and as a result, some want little to do with it. Having very long necks and legs the animals have also found out ways to “cheat” in order to obtain rewards and so progress has been slow. No matter what you might think, they have been pretty creative in their non-cooperation! In general, many zoo employees can quickly grasp the idea about training. Reading training books can help but it does not divulge all the nuances or steps to developing a successful program or the steps to obtaining ideal behavioral progress. Go back and make sure the steps are clear to both staff and to the animals. Also be alert to the tendency to try and progress too fast. Taking your time with the foundations of training gives you a firm base from which to move forward. Without it things crumble and progress is erratic - if you make any at all! In this situation, the parameters are not completely controlled by the staff. The animals actually have control in some cases. For instance, these animals are rewarded via buckets and can walk away and then walk back again to finish their reward. This gives the animal control over their reinforcement and what transpires in the session. It also fails to give the animal a clear idea about what is supposed to be transpiring. In addition, the animals will reach out and give a token advance toward loading in the chute. Maybe the animal will place a toe on the edge of the platform, for example. There is some interest in cooperating but by just doing the minimum.... and they have taken some creative steps to receive rewards without real progress. Finally, jumping the gun by closing one animal into the chute too rapidly caused a breakdown in behavior and a lack of trust in the process. Remember that the temptation Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 377 to force an issue can undo all the training you have accomplished thus far. Given the time restrictions and other influencing factors that come into play, you may be feeling pressure from management but it is important for you to understand this clearly and work to assure them of your forward progress. Forcing the issue this way is an older type of procedure and in most cases the re-coop time takes twice as long than if you had taken the time to train it right in the first place. (I talked about this in regards to dolphin training sometime back.) Don’t confuse this with forcing/requiring/making an animal perform to the proper level of criteria - that is important to do. PCnowing the difference is the key to success. Answer Since management supports you in your training efforts there are several areas I would encourage you to work on. You may want to assist them in understanding your progress and efforts by providing them with some feedback in addition to your other training steps. A. Assess your animals, create an animal profile and a behavior repertoire. This is time well spent. It is suggested that you create an animal profile in your area or at least a book with a profile that outlines their markings for identification, any illnesses or medications, birth data and history of housing, and predispositions of the animal’s personality toward training and manipulation.* Be sure to include a list of behaviors and who knows what and to what level of criteria they know it. *Although some professionals frown upon defining “personalities” categorizing animals has been done by Pavlov and most recently within the primatology field. B. Outline steps and acceptable responses. Create a pre-training plan with all your steps outlined. Once you have a clear listing of steps you can create the training sheet for the behavior. One trainer per behavior and animal is ideal since it means consistency and less confusion. Once the trainer has completed the training, the other trainers can be signed off on it. However, since you are working in teams this is not always a possibility. So your training records are critical for developing consistency and success with you animals. Attempt to design a training sheet or form that has the behavior stages with clearly defined criteria. Ideally with an am/ pm column since your training occurs within your regular routine. (See example in Historic Musth.) Use a simple training sheet or ethogram that allows you to place all your behaviors on a sheet so that you can simply check them off rather than write it all down. AND if you can develop a rating scale that eliminates the subjective opinions between the trainers - the better off you are! Maybe a “1” means excellent response time and position at the current level of behavior. Define that further - a couple of seconds or a minute? Make it very clear. Also define by definitions already being used in the field if you can. Responsiveness of your animals can be variable. You may find the three stages of response from giraffes as defined by the Folsom City Zoo of interest: 1. Fidgety - Where the animals were nervous, confused with inclination to flinch, fidget and kick. 2. Tolerant - Where the animals would settle down quickly and accept manipulations. 31 S Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 27, No. 9, 2000 3. Indifferent - Where the animals understood the step and accept it calmly. I prefer a sheet that is easy to review rather than having many, many pages of writing (that I often cannot read!). Make sure you have an area that allows you to make notations on the date, weather conditions, or any other notes of interest (estrus etc.,) so that variables are conveyed. Also find ways to develop visual markers so that you can develop further consistency. If you can use visual markers during your training then you can define progress by distance to that marker. This helps you with creating a more solid criteria. You can convey progress easily if you have an animal that is four feet from a specific marker, then three feet, etc. This can allow you to use successive approximation to move the animal more successfully given your situation of multiple trainers. C. Review reinforcement methods & control reward dispersement. This is one of the most difficult areas for newer trainers to grasp. The whistle you are using is a secondary or conditioner reinforcer AND is a bridge. So, it signals to the animal that the performance is correct and that primary reinforcment is coming. Once your behaviors are trained you will need to learn how to move up into another more advanced method of using reinforcement. However, for the moment use continuous reinforcement while training new behaviors, (i.e., one whistle blow means one reinforcement.) Based on your restrictions on what type of reinforcers you can use, I would continue using your bucket to distribute reinforcement. However, instead of just using your bucket, add a bait bag attached to the side or back of your pants with a small scoop in it so that you can control the reinforcement that you place within the bucket. A flavor burst is the effect that you want and you do not want the animal to spend a bunch of time chewing. This simple change will allow you to control the amount you give the animal and prevent them from receiving poorly timed reinforcement. It also will give you the ability to work more behaviors with less delays. D. Train A to B movement. This is an important behavior for you to get under stimulus control. It will help you to move your animals more quickly down the corridor and into the chute. An “A to B” is simply teaching your animal to move from one keeper to another on command or from one location to another. You already have a good start so make it stronger. Begin to train this stationing behavior on your giraffe walk with two keepers. First teach the giraffe to come and reward. Then you can give a signal (verbal like “Go” or something similar) and withdraw as the second keeper calls. Make sure you teach them to also stand at station for longer periods of time before movement (add at 5-10 second increments or less per session initially) AND later be sure that you alter locations where the animal is moved. E. Set limits on time of response. When working your animals give them a window of time to respond. If the animal does not respond -within the window then withdraw for a time out. Try again later. Be consistent here. You may need to start off with longer time periods that are acceptable and back off into shorter desired slots. Make the animal successful if you can. . .but don’t wait all day for their cooperation! Make sure that you define your limits and outline your goals for this area. Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 9, 2000 379 Some animals will need smaller, gradual steps while others will progress rapidly. Pay attention to this and allow for differences in the animals. If the animal stresses, this usually means that you have progressed too quickly. However, sometimes the animal will need to be desensitized. This is where you will need to learn to know the difference so that you can make the proper call to proceed successfully. F. Give a cue for termination of session. For clarity you may want to consider using a signal for the termination of the session so your animals understand when they are done. The less confusion there is then the more secure and successful your animals can be. G. Use targeting poles to assist with body positioning. Because of the logistical problems associated with the long necks and legs of your animals I would recommend you use target poles on the body and legs. Thin and light material would be good since the length of your pole will add more weight. Make sure you teach touch toleration in doing this. The animals are rewarded for tolerating the touch without reacting. Later you have them move toward the pole. H. Create a spreadsheet that can translate into a graph for progress assessment. This is mainly for management. If you have designed your training sheet and ethogram successfully, put it into a spreadsheet format so that you can automatically have it translate into a progress graph. Showing your progress and updating your management will further gain their support in your efforts. I would recommend that you update them quarterly (or monthly if you are so inclined). Suggested References Guerrero, Diana. ABC’s Animal Behavior Concerns & Solutions. Implementing a clicker-training program. Vol. 27(7). Animal Keepers' Forum. July 2000. — ABC’s Animal Behavior Concerns & Solutions, Training Programs in American Zoos. Vol. 26(9). Animal Keepers’ Forum. September 1999. — ABC’s Animal Behavior Concerns & Solutions. Is there a difference between training & conditioning? Vol. 25(4). Animal Keepers’ Forum . April 1998. — ABC’s Animal Behavior Concerns & Solutions. Moving Ahead Before A Behavior Is Stabilized Vol. 25(1). Animal Keepers’ Forum. January 1998. — ABC’s Animal Behavior Concerns <& Solutions. Understanding Applications of the Bridge & Bridging Criteria. Part One. Vol. 24(9). Animal Keepers’ Forum . September 1997. — ABC’s Animal Behavior Concerns & Solutions. Understanding Applications of the Bridge & Bridging Criteria. Part Two. Vol. 24(10). Animal Keepers’ Forum. October 1997. — ABC’s Animal Behavior Concerns & Solutions. Confusing Consistency With Predictability. Vol. 24(3). Animal Keepers’ Forum . March 1997. — ABC’s Animal Behavior Concerns & Solutions. Lingo Limbo: Clarifying Training Terminology. Vol. 23(4). Animal Keepers’ Forum. April 1996. 380 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 — Historical Musth Period in an Asian Bull Elephant (Elephas maximus indicus). Vol. 23(5). Animal Keepers’ Forum. May 1996. — Dog Social Styles. April 1996. Cyberpet. — Behavior Repertoire Listing for a Captive Group of Asian Elephants {Elephas maximus indicus). 1995. Internal Report for Zoological Society of San Diego. — Elephant and Human Social Styles: How To Apply Them To Training. Winter 1995. Journal of the Elephant Managers Association. Houts, Lee (1999) Giraffe Training. Animal Trainer Magazine. Vol. 1(3). King, J.E. and Figueredo, A.J., (1997) The five-factor model plus dominance n chimpanzee personality. Journal of Research in Personality, 31, 257-271 Ramirez, Ken. (1999) Animal Training: successful animal management through positive reinforcement. John G. Shedd Aquarium, Chicago, IL (About the Author: Since 1978, ARKANIMALS.COM Director, Diana Guerrero has worked professionally in a variety of animal facilities. Attending and completing courses in both animal management and training from institutions both here in the United States and Europe, she has been affiliated with some of the best organizations. She is an alumni of The Moorpark College Exotic Animal Training & Management Program, The Gentle Jungle Animal Affection Training School, The International Training Centre at the Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust, and special program extensions with Marwell Zoological Park and Kent University. Guerrero started her career in the marine mammal field working as a naturalist, and subsequently became involved with terrestrial animals in zoos and other facilities. Guerrero writes a variety of animal-related columns, including the popular series. Unusual Animal Careers and does seminars nationally. Watch for two of her book projects in the summers of 1999 and 2000! Questions for ABCs should be submitted to Diana directly via e-mail:> arkabc@arkanimals.com< or via regular mail toARKANLMALS.COM, P.O. Box 1154, Escondido, CA 92033 USA.) L&G Livestock G'curmet \^eat for C( arnivores Pamper your carnivores with our delightful Treat Meat ~ Carcass bone-in Beef and Mutton from disease and injection-free animals. Custom cut and packaged in our USDA plant. Order your free sample today. Ann Metz, Sales Manager, 23689 S.W. Voss Place, Sherwood, OR 97140 Phone: (877) 247-4364 Fax: (503) 925-8813 e-mail: annmetz@portland.quik.com Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 27, No. 9, 2000 381 Indtj Zoo A nnouncGS 3econ d Al Elephant Birth Officials of the Indianapolis Zoo are extremely pleased to announce that the second African elephant in the world ever conceived by artificial insemination (AI) was born successfully early on 4 August at approximately 0700 hrs. The 252-pound male calf was born to 18-year-old Ivory after what veterinarians and the elephant staff describe as an extremely short labor of about 30 minutes after a 22-month gestation. Both mother and baby are doing well so far and veterinarians and staff are optimistic about the calf’s chances for survival. The calf is described as “very strong” and was able to get up and walk within the first half-hour of life. The veterinary and elephant staff described the delivery as being much quicker than that of elephant Kubwa, the first African elephant to successfully conceive by AI, who gave birth to baby Amali on 6 March of this year. The experience of the two mother elephants has differed not only in the precise number of days of gestation, but also in the manner of delivery and the reaction of the mothers. Ivory’s delivery came sooner than expected, according to senior veterinarian Dr. Jeff Proudfoot. “Her hormone levels were not dropping in a pattern that we thought would indicate impending labor, but this just demonstrates the variability among African elephant reproductive patterns and the importance of the research we are doing at the Indianapolis Zoo.” Dr. Jeffrey P. Bonner, president and CEO of the Indianapolis Zoological Society, added, “This is a truly historic summer for our Zoo, first with Kubwa and the birth of baby Amali, and now with Ivory and the new baby. We are so proud of allthe people who contributed to this success.” Ivory’s artificial insemination took place over Halloween weekend in 1998 with semen collected from a bull elephant named MacLain housed at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. The fact that this calf is a male as opposed to a female is very significant and does have serious implications for the Indianapolis Zoo and its elephant programming. Although the new male elephant will be a baby for some considerable time (elephants have a lifespan that can reach to 60 years or more), it eventually will have to be housed separately from the females in the rest of the herd. Elephant social structure is matriarchal, with herds of related females. In their teen years, the male calves are displaced from their herds and live either in small bachelor groups or alone except when they come together with the females to mate. Adult bull elephants are more difficult to keep in human care due to their size and temperament, especially during breeding season. This fact has contributed to the scarcity of bull elephants in North America and the consequent importance of development a successful artificial insemination program. Construction is soon to be underway on the Zoo’s new and expanded elephant exhibit. Plans to include a special facility to manage bull elephants are being finalized and the need for additional funding to accommodate those facilities will become crucial. “We are not disappointed in any way that this is a male elephant,” said Bonner. “Clearly, that makes life more complicated for us, but we need more African bull elephants in human care to continue this significant research into the reproductive processes of this very threatened animal. This will be a great adventure for all of us and hugely important to the future of these magnificent and unique animals.” Details on when the mother and calf will be introduced to the other herd members and when the public may have a chance to see them were pending at the time of publication. Assuming that everything remains positive, the Zoo will conduct another “name the baby” contest with the Indianapolis Starand WTHR, an event that proved very popular with the public when baby elephant Amali was named in March of this year. 382 Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 8, 2000 According to David Hagan, Curator of the Plains Biome, and Debbie Olson, Director of Elephant Conservation and Science Programs at the Indianapolis Zoo, and one of the leaders over the last several years in organizing the world-wide effort to perfect and use artificial insemination in elephants, the conception and successful birth of this elephant calf are extremely important to the long-term viability of African elephants in human care and is the culmination of over a decade of research in elephant reproduction by members of the elephant community worldwide. Olson especially commended the Zoo staff for putting in the amount of work over the last two years to condition Ivory physically. Olson attributes a great deal of Ivory’s success and easy labor to her excellent physical condition. Zoo Senior Veterinarian Dr. Jeff Proudfoot added that he was thrilled that Ivory was able to deliver naturally and with ease. His complete neo-natal examination Friday morning revealed that the calf is very strong and there are no immediate concerns. Contributors to this historic development include the Institute for Zoo Biology and Wildlife Research (IZW) of Berlin, Germany, whose staff perfected the artificial insemination technique that was used to achieve the conceptions of both of our mother elephants. The primary veterinary doctors involved in this successful artificial insemination were Dr. Thomas Hildebrandt, Department Head Reproduction Management, and Frank Goeritz, both of IZW. --from ZooNewsDigest Week of 8/7 12000 Elephant Reproductive Monitoring Training Video Produced The Indianapolis Zoological Society, in collaboration with Lee Richardson Zoo (Garden City, KS) and Fort Worth Zoo (Fort Worth, TX), is pleased to announce the release of the Elephant Reproductive Monitoring Training Video. This instructional video will provide elephant managers and trainers general knowledge of the behavioral components necessary to monitor elephant reproductive cycles and determine the reproductive potential of the animals in their collection. This training will enable additional research into elephant reproductive physiology and enhance one’s ability to make educated captive management decisions. Janine Brown, Ph.D, (Elephant SSP Reproductive Advisor) writes, “this video is one of the most needed and important projects for ensuring that more zoos and elephant owners participate in reproductive monitoring and move toward the development of a self-sustaining captive population of elephants.” These materials are presented in a format that can be applied in free contact, confined contact, and protected contact as defined by AZA. Materials are being provided free to all institutions and owners of elephants in North America that are listed in the African or Asian studbook by request. A request can be sent to the Indianapolis Zoological Society, c/o Jeff Peterson, 1200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN, 46222 or via e-mail to jpeterso@indvzoo.com. Allow 6 - 10 weeks for delivery. Materials will be sent to institutions without elephants pending availability and will include a shipping charge. Jeff Peterson, Large Mammal Manager Indianapolis Zoological Society, Inc. 1200 West Washington Street RO. Box 22309 Indianapolis , IN 46222-0309 (317) 630-2093 (317) 630-5153 FAX iDeterso@indvzoo.com Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 383 r / 0 ^ ^ /I QuestioiatdAismFonMforthetoo Frodessfoia/oiCr/s/sffaia^ueit By William K, Baker, Jr., Zoo Curator Frank Buck Zoo, Gainesville, TX Question How do you prepare for a crisis management drill? Comments Prevention, proactive, and planning in advance. At some point in our careers we have all heard these catch phrases. The problem is that these worn, politically correct phrases that tend to annoy us are still as important now as they were when first spoken. I prefer to believe that they’re just overused by bureaucrats incapable of an original thought of their own. However, that doesn’t negate the power of these words and the concepts that they represent. Proactive and prepared are more than catch phrases; they’re common sense. This is the first step in preparing for a crisis, the proper attitude. ’’Still, it takes more than the proper attitude to prepare for a crisis. Three basic factors have to be in place first: logistical support, facility support, and a training program. Logistical support implies that there has to be adequate equipment available for the task. In other words, first aid kits, SCBA’s, fire extinguishers, tool kits, entry tools, capture nets, animal restraint equipment, emergency oxygen units, radios, flashlights, dart rifles, and firearms. The simple truth is that only two things, your imagination and pocketbook limit safety equipment. This raises the inevitable question; “do you have an annual budget and how large is it?” Facility support is absolutely necessary for a safety program to succeed. In short, it is imperative that the senior administration supports a proactive position for emergency preparedness. It is virtually impossible for responders to train without the available time for practice, range time, and emergency drills. However, these components of the safety process cannot be realized without adequate staff to cover animal management duties while other staff members are in training. Training programs should be tailored to the needs of the institution and the composition of the animal collection. Every institution and facility are inherently different in its “demographic composition”. As a result, what works in one facility may not necessarily work at another. Still, there are some basic tenants, which should be considered. Safety training can be pursued through local, state, national, and private resources such as consultants. Which resources are utilized is dependent on the investment of finances and time. 384 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 Once the groundwork has been done, then it’s a matter of deciding what type of drill to undertake. In essence there are two types of drills: Limited Response and Facility Response. Limited response drills are basically exercises that are geared strictly for emergency responders, Emergency Response Teams (ERT’s), Crisis Management Teams (CMT’s), and Strategic Response Teams (SRT’s). The purpose of these drills is to hone the skills of the responders. As a general rule it is unnecessary to interrupt facility operations for these training exercises. Much of the training can be facilitated in a classroom environment utilizing scenario based role- playing games to hone judgment skills. The firing range can also be a useful environment for quick reaction exercises. Walk-through exercises can prove to be useful for a team. One of the variants on this exercise is to draft a staff member from a specific department to be the “escaped animal”. Think of it as “tag” with only your skill and wits against say a “cat staffer” who will do their best to elude you, while it is necessary for you to locate them and physically tag them. Sounds childish and easy, it’s not. You’re about to track someone who intimately understands cat behavior. By using other departments it’s possible to conduct in-house workshops on behavior. After all, you’re surrounded by animal professionals, use the resources at hand. With a little imagination it’s possible to find options other than running through the facility creating a scene. Facility response drills are exactly that, facility-wide drills are held on an unannounced basis, and usually on a quarterly or annual basis. A scenario is chosen and executed before public hours. The key to authenticity is to ensure that the date and time is confidential information. Observers should grade the performance of all sectors of the facility. Afterwards, the observers should conduct a roundtable discussion to establish ways to increase performance. This allows the senior staff and emergency responders to develop revised policies before a crisis occurs, not after the fact. When considering options for different scenarios they can be simple or complex in nature. Remember, the vast majority of crisis events are resolved without major incident. Animal escapes are usually resolved with the specimen being returned safely to their enclosure and in good condition. Conversely, crises should not be restricted to the purview of escapes. Fires, hazardous materials, power outages, and serious storms are more likely to be a clear and present danger. The key to real success is using your imagination and “thinking outside the box”. Next Month: How can an impending animal birth effect behavior patterns and safety? 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, Tbpeka, KS 66614 Attn: Reactions/AKF (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. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 27, No. 9, 2000 385 Random Organization: Organizing the Enrichment Program at the Regenstein Small Mammal and Reptile House At Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago, IL By Lisa Taylor, Keeper Great Ape House, Lincoln Park Zoo Imagine this. You come home from work and find a pint of Ben and Jerry’s® ice cream in your freezer with your name on it. Great, right? Imagine now coming home every day and having ice cream be your only option for a treat every day. It gets boring — unless you are an ice cream fanatic. Humans have the potential of living very enriched lives. We have our televisions, the computer, radio, etc. Now take away all of that and replace it with the same thing day after day. Dull. The example I always remember came from my sister who, like me, loves pizza. We always said we could eat it every day. One day she was lucky enough to get a part-time job at our local pizza place. What a dream job, right? It only took two weeks before pizza was last on her list of desired snacks. Too much of anything can get boring and undesirable. This is often the problem with enrichment programs in zoos. Zoo keepers are generally very busy during the day and their ability to think up and provide novel enrichment items can sometimes suffer for this. The zoo keepers at Lincoln Park Zoo’s Regenstein Small Mammal/Reptile House (SMRH) were no exception. Though we had good intentions and tried to give the animals things we knew they liked, we found we were giving them the same enrichment items over and over. Our options seemed limited. We also found that enrichment was often the first thing set aside in a busy day. Most of the people I talked to said this was the case because thinking of what to do, along with setting it up and using it, took just too much time. To solve this problem, we came up with a system to make enrichment more keeper- friendly, which would ultimately benefit the animals in our collection. First, we had to come up with new ideas for enrichment for specific animals. We used a poster board sectioned into four. We labeled those sections “FOOD”, “SCENT”, “OTHER”, and “ADVANCED”. But what does that all mean? • “FOOD” - food enrichment. This includes new types of food that the animals can actually consume, and many different ways to present their diet. • “SCENT” - scent enrichment. This is any kind of scent, including herbs, spices (not necessarily given for consumption), hunting scents, and scents from other approved enclosures. • “OTHER” - tantalizes senses other than taste and smell. We included new substrates, exhibit furniture, audio enrichment, and many other devices. • “ADVANCED” - something we would have to build. In this list were projects we would like to complete for the animals, something that would take some time to complete. We developed our lists species by species at the rate of one species per week. The reason for this was to devise enrichment to mimic the animals’ natural lives and allow them to 386 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 enjoy natural behaviors. Swamp monkeys can manipulate items much better than can a brush-tailed bettong. Likewise, bettongs are burrowers, an activity that holds no charm for a tamarin. Many exceptional ideas came from this brainstorming board. Keepers Kris Florig, Anna Bratton, and Jennie Crosby along with the other keepers in the building worked from their varied experiences to come up with novel ideas. When we implemented this program, the number of new proposals for enrichment increased to more than ten times its previous amount! One of the best things to come from this project was the sense of teamwork it brought to our building. We all worked together to come up with new, exciting ideas for enriching our charges. We were able to use everyone’s talents in the building to foster interest in the project. Many of the enrichment items needed to be built, and since our building is relatively new, we needed to make things as natural as possible. Keeper Ken Terril and Dan Boehm were instrumental in this, as well as our curator, John Gramieri. Their skilled hands and eyes helped to make some great naturalistic enrichment items for our animals. Now, how do we use all these ideas? Every enrichment idea presented had to be approved, and this required screening by the collection manager, the curator, and the veterinarian. All were very supportive of this endeavor, and we were able to work together to alter some ideas to put them to use. Diane Mulkerin and Dr. Robyn Barbiers even adjusted the diets to allow for the inclusion of bonus items. We needed to be sure the animals’ diets remained nutritionally balanced. I then spoke with our commissary to arrange for the delivery of our new food items. Though this process took time and effort from a lot of people, in the long run it is making our jobs easier. So many ideas... We then had to develop a way to make sure we would use all of our new options, rather than again falling into a rut and using the same enrichment over and over. We developed a calendar system on which the days were labeled with the type of enrichment group to be used that day. The type of enrichment is randomly scattered around the calendar, with the groupings as follows: jype 1: — Food Enrichment, including presentation Type 2: — Scent Enrichment Type 3: — Other Enrichment Type 4: — No Enrichment Your Choice: — Any of groups 1-3 above We added a “no enrichment” day because this can be just as enriching as other types — keeps them guessing! We also made sure to leave a day of “your choice”, so we didn’t feel constrained by the enrichment calendar. An example of this calendar is shown below: Sun Mon Tues Type 1 Type 2 Type 4 Weds Thurs Fri Sat Type 1 your choice Type 3 Type 2 This system took a couple difficult aspects of enrichment out of the picture: doubt of approval, and lack of options. We now had an extensive list of items that were approved Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 387 in each of these categories, so keepers no longer had to first think of some enrichment and then figure out if it was OK to use - they knew it had already been approved. The list also made it easier to come up with an idea. We are now able to look at these lists and choose from there. Documenting. . . On the calendar in the date space, enough room is left to write a comment, such as specifically what of that type was given, and how the animal reacted to it. The animals’ reaction is determined on a 1-5 scale which is defined as follows: 1 - No reaction/ignored 2 - Flee from/Avoid 3 - Look at - no interaction 4 -Some interaction - less than (<) 5 minutes 5. Significant interaction - more than (>) 5 minutes, and repeated interaction throughout the day. We wanted to gauge the animals’ reactions for several reasons. First and foremost, we thought it unnecessary to repeatedly give an enrichment that is, in fact, not enriching the animal. When we try a new item, we try it two or three times before deciding its worth. If it fails to gain the animal’s interest, we will look at altering it to make it more appealing, or even eliminating it from the list. The reason for repeated tests of enrichment is that there are many facets to an animal’s “zoo life”. If an animal does not react to an enrichment, we look at what else is happening in that group dynamic. The second reason for gauging the animal’s interest is to avoid exposure to excess stress. Fear is a form of enrichment, no doubt, but excessive fear can eventually harm the animal, through stress-related factors. If an animal seems to be giving a strong #2 reaction more than one time the enrichment is given, we will not give it anymore. In captive situations it is not fair to scent a prey animal’s enclosure with a predator it cannot get away from. Some animals though will, on a second trial of the scent, attack rather than flee their “predator”. Third, it is always fun and even rewarding to watch an animal interact with the enrichment we developed and implemented. This evaluation time period is our chance to see the animals active, to see them displaying behaviors as they would in the wild, and our chance to pat ourselves on the back for a job well done. Fourth, it is refreshing to use your brain at work. It keeps you motivated or, if nothing else, keeps you awake! Reproducing Enrichment items... This portion of the program is still in development. What we would like is a form to fill out that states where the materials came from, the approximate cost, how the device was assembled, and how it was placed in the exhibit. Ideally, a photo, digital or otherwise, would accompany this sheet to show the animals’ use of it. Not only does this make it easier to replace a well-worn enrichment device, but it also makes it easier to share ideas with other sections in the zoo, or with other zoos. 388 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol 27, No. 9, 2000 Now what? Since enrichment is a very important and necessary part of an animal's captive life, we would like to develop this program throughout Lincoln Park Zoo. SMRH was a very good starting point for this program because of the large number and diversity of species, and therefore the huge potential for diverse enrichment. The collection ranges from leaf cutter ants to green tree pythons to crocodiles to mongoose to elephant shrews to otters and swamp monkeys. Most zoos are attempting to get everyone "on the same page" by having a blanket system throughout the organization. This program can be the basis of enrichment here at Lincoln Park. Already the primate department at LPZ has begun to use this system with very positive results. In conclusion.,. I would like to thank my co-workers for helping get this program off the ground, especially Diane Mulkerin and Dave Bernier, who were very supportive from the beginning. I would also like to thank my colleagues at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Portions of this program come from work we did at DAK with Marty Sevenich and with Donna Evernham on the Tree of Life team. Thanks! Though this program has been and will continue to be a lot of work as it grows, it has been such a rewarding experience for me at Lincoln Park, and I look forward to helping it develop into a program to be used throughout the zoo. Riddle ’s Sanctuary Announces Elephant Pregnancy Riddle’s Elephant and Wildlife Sanctuary is pleased to announce the first pregnancy of an elephant at the sanctuary. Tonga, a 22-year-old female African elephant is expecting a calf This will be her first baby. As an elephant pregnancy is approximately 22 months, the anticipated birth date of the calf is March 2002. The pregnancy was confirmed during an ultra-sound examination on 24 June. This assessment was being performed in conjunction with the first ever Elephant Ultra-Sound Workshop for Veterinarians. This unique course in hands-on ultra-sound technology was attended by wildlife veterinarians from around the country and taught by Dr. Dennis Schmitt, DVM, Ph.D. from Springfield, Missouri. Dr. Schmitt is one of the pioneers in this field of adapting modern technology to better evaluate elephants for medical reasons. This pregnancy will be monitored closely by continued blood hormone testing and by regular ultra-sound evaluations. Images from the ultra-sound will be made available on the sanctuary Web site at; http://www.elephantsanctuary.org This is the first elephant to become pregnant in a captive elephant herd housing several males and females roaming in a spacious enclosure. The pregnancy is significant to African elephants in human care, as they do not reproduce very often. In North America alone, only five calves were born in the past 10 years and only two of those calves have survived. This pregnancy is also unique because for the first few years following Tonga’s arrival at the sanctuary it was thought that she was not fertile. After being integrated within a herd of male and female elephants, Tonga became reproductively mature resulting in this long-awaited pregnancy Riddle’s Elephant and Wildlife Sanctuary is a nonprofit organization dedicated to both Asian and Africa elephants. There are currently eleven elephants residing at the sanctuary Riddle’s Elephant and Wildlife Sanctuary, RO. BOX 715, Greenbrier, AR 72058; (501) 589-3291 Phone; (501) 589-2248 Fax; e-mail elephantfarm@alltel.net: Contact: Heidi Riddle. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 389 LegisCdtvve UpcCate Compiled by Georgann Johnston Legislative Advisor Sacramento, CA m I II I 1 1 1 1 Mill I I I I I Mill m II I USFWS Considers Allowing Limited Capture of Falcons for Falconry The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has released a draft Environmental Assessment report, dated 25 July 2000, discussing its proposal to allow limited capture of wild American peregrine falcons in the western U.S. for use in falconry. If approved, the program would allow the capture or “taking” of up to 5 percent of the annual production of nestling peregrine falcons in 11 western states. The proposed action would continue to prohibit the taking of juvenile peregrine falcons in other states where the population of the species have not yet increased to the same levels as those found in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming. Based on current population estimates, the “take” of nestling falcons each year would amount to about 82 birds. USFWS’ position is that this would still allow for a population increase of 3 percent per year - enough to keep the species from being relisted as an endangered species. The move is supported by a number of falconry organizations around the country. “Falconry is an ancient sport, and falconers played an important role in bringing the peregrine back from the brink of extinction. This proposed action will protect the nation’s peregrine falcon population and ensure that the birds don’t end up back on the Endangered Species list, while providing falconers with opportunities to continue their sport,” said USFWS Director Jamie Rappaport Clark. The proposal is based on a number of assumptions including the fact that 20 percent of hatched chicks die before they reach their first year and that the effect of taking only 5 percent of the fledglings that survive would not have a deleterious effect on overall population growth. One additional requirement is that the state participating in the plan must have 14 documented breeding pairs of the birds. As of a 1998 survey, Nevada did not meet this requirement and was therefore left out of the list of western states participating in the program. Captive breeding programs, many of which were carried out by those involved in the falconry sport, put over 6,000 birds back into the wild over the past 25 years. Now officials want to reward the falconers for their efforts by providing new birds (and thus new genes) to be used in future captive breeding programs. Falconry is considered the most regulated hunting sport in the U. S., requiring federal and state permits, training and exams. There are about 4,000 falconers nationwide. Copies of the Environmental Assessment can be viewed and downloaded from the USFWS Web site at http://migratorvbirds.fws.gov/issues/americanperegrines/draftea.html. Public comments on the proposal can be sent to the Chef, Division of Migratory Bird Management, USFWS, 4401 North Fairfax Drive, Room 634, Arlington, VA 22203. Source: USFWS Press Release 27 July 2000; Sacramento Bee Newspaper 3 August 2000 390 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 Kenya Investigating Die Off of Flamingos The flamingos found in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley are dying from an as yet unidentified cause. As many as 50,000 birds may have died in the past year. If the cause of the deaths is not identified and the problem continues to spread the Lake Bogoria flamingo population - more than one million birds - could be completely destroyed. The Kenyan Wildlife Service is investigating the problem and suspects that industrial pollution is the cause of the deaths since heavy metals - mercury, copper, cadmium, lead, chromium, and arsenic - are being found in the carcasses. Those metals are consistent with effluents produced by a battery factory, tannery, and other industries located near Lake Nakrur the bird’s home until about two years ago. Lesser flamingos {Phoenicopteras minor) previously lived in a nearly perfect habitat, feeding on the lake’s shallow surface for microscopic algae. Eighty percent of the world’s flamingos were found in this area where active volcanoes feed the great soda lakes of the Great Rift Valley. However, heavy rains in 1997 diluted Lake Nakrur’s salinity, disturbing the ecosystem and destroying the algae. Thus, the flamingos migrated north to Lake Borgoria and, concurrently, deaths from some mysterious illness or poison began. Investigators acting on behalf of the Kenyan Wildlife Service have verified that significant clean-up measures have taken place with respect to the toxic wastes flowing into Lake Nakuru. So far, however, the birds have not returned to their original feeding grounds and a current drought in the area may be contributing to this factor. This is the third time in seven years that large numbers of flamingos in the Valley have died. Some researchers claim that since the problem appears and disappears it more likely be a bacterium rather than toxic poisoning causing the deaths. Source: African Wildlife News, Summer 2000, vol. 35, no. 3 No New Ivory Trade Authorized by CITES Members The most recent CITES Convention, held in Nairobi in April 2000, considered the possibility of resuming ivory sales on a broad scale. The issue was addressed in two major ways with both ideas being voted down by convention members. First, South Africa asked CITES to move its elephant population from Appendix I to Appendix II to permit sales of stockpiled raw ivory. Secondly, Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe asked for approval to continue the sale of stockpiled ivory that was begun in April 1999. The data offered to the delegates demonstrated that all of the ivory sold went to Japan but that there was insufficient information to determine whether any long-term effect on living elephant populations had occurred. In effect, the delegates could not adequately determine whether allowing a limited trade in ivory had lead to the increased killing of elephants for their tusks. In the end, Kenya, Botswana and Zimbabwe withdrew their proposals for further sales and the South African population was moved to Appendix II after that country agreed it would drop its ivory sale proposal. No one came away completely satisfied since the elephant populations in Africa vary widely - from a few hundred highly endangered animals in some countries to 100,000-plus in other countries, where elephant crop raiding creates conflict with poor local farmers. Moreover, no one knows for sure how many elephants are living in the vast central African forest or how expanding civil wars will affect their fate. Source: African Wildlife News, Summer 2000, vol. 35, no. 3 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 391 Morne Diablotin National Park Created in Caribbean A new national park, located on the slopes of the highest volcanic peak in the Caribbean, has been created by the island government of Dominica aided by funding from the Rare Species Conservatory Foundation in Florida. Many international conservationists regard this park as one of the most significant bioreserve in all of the Caribbean since it will protect the last habitat for the world’s rarest Amazon parrot, the Imperial Amazon or Sisserou, Dominica’s national bird. The Cabinet of Dominica approved the boundaries of the Park, which will occupy approximately 5% of the small nation’s land area. This conservation action comes at a heavy price for the Rare Species Conservatory Foundation in Florida (RSCF). The land acquired was owned by the Dominican Fruit Syndicate and had to be purchased by the RSCF with over $750,000 raised from private donors coupled with a Dominican government promissory note to cover the total purchase price of $1,086 million. Now the RSCF is seeking new funding to get back on its feet financially so it can continue to monitor the area and continue field-based research and conservation programs. Dominica is known as an aggressive conservation-oriented country despite its fragile economy. Animal and plant biodiversity is impressive, including 162 bird species. Native folklore contends the Dominican people are reincarnated as parrots. Morne Diablotin National Park is likely to become a Natural World Heritage Site in the future under guidelines put forth by UNESCO. For more information visit the RSCF Web site at http://www.rarespecies.org. Source: Avicultural Society of America Bulletin, July ! August 2000 NIH “Rescue” Chimps at Research Facility; Fate of Other Chimps Unknown The federal agency known as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has reclaimed title to 288 chimpanzees that had been housed at the Coulston Foundation. A total of 650 chimps live at the facility, which is located on the grounds of an Air Force Base in New Mexico. Coulston has long provided primate-testing services - including behavior studies and medical research — to the United States government and to some private companies as well. The action to remove the 288 chimps followed a settlement of a claim of Animal Welfare Act violations brought against Coulston by the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). In essence, the settlement resulted in Coulston agreeing to divest itself of at least 300 chimps by January 2002. This means that the NIH will be accepting responsibility for the upkeep costs of these animals, estimated to be $2.5 million per year. One fear which apparently led to the settlement regarding the 288 animals was the fact that Coulston is “teetering on the verge of bankruptcy, with at least $800,000 in unpaid bills and $2.6 million in outstanding loans,” according to documentation presented to APHIS by In Defense of Animals. There are approximately 1,700 chimps in laboratory facilities around the U.S. now, with an expectation of retiring about 1,000 of these in the next few years. This action can come about, however, only if sufficient housing and care facilities can be located or constructed according to Congressman Michael Bilirakis (R-FL). The lack of adequate “retirement sanctuaries” is a major contributing factor to the fact that these animals remain in research facilities with minimal attention to their physical and emotional needs. Various non-profit animal organizations have attempted to develop new and creative plans for relocating the chimps but have met with little success so far. For 392 Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 9, 2000 example, Primarily Primates was working on island sanctuaries off the coast of Ghana but the project fell apart because the islands could not be adequately secured. Likewise, a plan to relocate the chimps to Uganda fell through when an existing sanctuary lost 9 of its 52 chimps to “poachers” who stole the animals for use as bush meat. Congressman James Greenwood (R-PA) introduced a bill in late 1999 that would require the U.S. Department of Health to allot $30 million for construction of a major chimp retirement sanctuary. The bill also contained a provision to require private researchers who use chimps to contribute another $3 million towards the project. The bill did not make it out of committee and has not yet been reintroduced. Source: Animal People: News for People Who Care About Animals June 2000, vol. 9, no. 5 Judicial Decisions Affecting Animal Welfare A number of judges or magistrates, sitting in courts in both India and the United States, have issued rulings affecting the rights of animals. The following is just a sampling of recent decisions: Kerala, India High Court Justices ruled that animals such as lions, tigers, panthers, bears and nonhuman primates, “though not homo sapiens, are also beings entitled to humane treatment.” Moreover, the justices stated that: “Though the law currently protects wildlife and endangered species from extinction, animals are denied rights, an anachronism that must change. If humans are entitled to rights, why not animals?” This ruling was resulted in upholding an attempt by the Indian Federal Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment to enforce an invocation of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 to bar circus exhibition of large carnivores and nonhuman primates. A U.S. District Court judge in Washington D.C. held that individual researchers have standing to pursue lawsuits against the USDA for failing to protect birds, rats, and mice pursuant to the Animal Welfare Act. “A researcher who witnesses the mistreatment of rats in her lab must have standing and the USDA does not have unreviewable discretion to exclude birds, rats and mice from AWA protection.” A federal judge in Hawaii effectively closed down the Hawaiian longline fishing industry by issuing an order requiring “100% coverage” of the fleet with onboard observers top insure the protection of endangered species. Only only 14 National Marine & Fisheries Service observers have previously monitored the fleet, comprised of approximately 115 vessels, but 12 of those people were laid off in May 2000. Longline fishing puts at risk numerous aquatic species that are endangered or threatened. Animals such as sharks and turtles become entangled in the lines and drown or receive fatal injuries from the lines themselves. The U.S. Supreme Court issued a 9-0 ruling upholding the authority of Interior Secretary Babbitt to administer the 1934 Taylor Grazing Act. The ruling opened the door for the Interior Department to impose grazing reform on the use of 170 million acres of leased federal property in 13 states. One of the major outcomes of this action may be the reinstatement of some tracts of land to their natural state, allowing for the reemergence and/or reintroduction of native plant and animal species that were driven out by overgrazing cattle. Source: Animal People: News for People Who Care About Animals June 2000, vol. 9, no. 5; July / August 2000, vol. 9, n. 6 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 393 House Votes to Protect Great Apes : The U.S. House of Representatives voted unanimously to pass the Great Ape Conservation [ Act of 2000 (H.R. 4320) in July 2000. The law, if passed by the Senate and signed by the t President, will provide funding for great ape conservation programs in countries inhabited |i by chimpanzees, bonobos, gorillas and orangutans. At this time, the bill authorizes the | expenditure of $5 million annually to fund grants for local wildlife management | authorities and other organizations dedicated to protecting the apes and their habitat, j The bill now goes to the Senate, where an almost identical bill (S. 1007) is also pending. I Once assigned to committee, the bills can be combined, modified, or one or the other can | be chosen to present to the full Senate for passage. However, passage of the law, and ' even signature by the President, does not ensure that any action will take place since i the projects must actually be funded as part of the Congressional budget process. [ For more information about both bills, visit the Library of Congress' THOMAS Web page | at http://thomas.loc.gov. ;i Ask your senator to cosponsor S. 1007. You may contact your senator by letter at: The I Honorable , U.S. Senate, Washington, DC 20510; or by phone through i' ther congressional switchboard (202) 224-3121. You can find out your legislator's specific address, phone number and e-mail address at the webpage listed above. || i| Source: Humane Society of the U.S. Press Release 27 July 2000 ■' Off Road Vehicles Threaten Florida Panthers Big Cypress National Preserve, a little known area near the Everglades which provides habitat vital to the endangered Florida panther, is being destroyed by off-road vehicles says ABC World News Tonight 7/7. Covering 729,000 acres the so-called preserve is crisscrossed by “30,000 miles of tracks and ruts” which have turned its “fragile prairies and marshes” into a “dispiriting” moonscape. Federal officials charged with protecting the preserve’s habitat for the panther and “90 other endangered species” call it “the worst example of overuse in the national park system” yet but so far have done little to stop the ORV’s from trashing the preserve. Source: GREENlines Issue #1178 7/2412000 Neotropical Bird Bill Now Law President Clinton signed into law the Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act which provides funding to support habitat conservation efforts in the U.S., Latin America and Caribbean says ENS 7/21. The law seeks to help address declines in many of the 500 species of songbirds that winter in the Caribbean and Latin America and then migrate to the U.S. and Canada to breed. Source: GREENlines Issue #1179 7/25/2000 Containment Jeopardizes Southern Otters A biological opinion from the FWS 7/20 says that removing sea otters from the so called Southern California “otter free management zone” would jeopardize their “continued existence” and is “essential to the species’ survival and recovery. The biological opinion is available on line at http://www.rl.fws.gov/vfwo Source: GREENlines Issue #1180 7/26/2000 394 Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 9, 2000 Spotlight on Project M JlB-G. (Making A Realistic Contribution) Project Coordinator: Kathy Kelly Silver Spring, MD The focus of the project is the collection of books, journals, and magazines relevent to the keeping of exotic animals in captivity. These printed materials are forwarded on to zoos, primarily in developing or Third World countries, that have no access to such materials, allowing them to build libraries for their staff. Donations of materials have been made from individuals, AAZK Chapters, zoos, medical establishments, etc. Kathy matches up literature with a requesting foreign zoo and sends the materials along to them. Below are some photos which Kathy received from grateful overseas institutions and we wanted to share some of the great success of Project M.A.R.C. with our readers. The photo at left shows the veterinary staff of the Animal Orphanage in Nairobi, Kenya reviewing some of the materials sent from Project M.A.R.C. Staff and a volunteer from the Barranquilla Zoo in Columbia are shown at right looking over the journals sent to them from project M.A.R.C. [Project M.A.R.C. is part ofAAZK’s International Outreach Committee (IOC).] Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 395 AnO verview of Traininq Staff an dRh inocGPOS fop Ultrasonoqpa phyP roceduPGS By Wendy Shaffstall, African Plains I Rhinoceros Keeper Kansas City Zoological Gardens, Kansas City, MO In 1996 and 1997, Kansas City Zoological Gardens confirmed its commitment to endangered species conservation with the importation of two female eastern black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis michaeli). These females were to be paired with males currently at the institution. Both males are under-represented genetically, so the pairings with these females would add valuable genetics to the captive population. Prior to any introductions, we carefully documented behaviors and estrus activity on monthly summary sheets to determine cycles. Once the pattern of behaviors and interval of cycles was determined, we proceeded with our plan for introductions. After successful how dying and olfactory contact phases were complete, physical introductions took place. As a result of these efforts, we had successful breeding of both females. Ultrasonography has been used to detect and measure reproductive structures in a variety of animals (Adams, 1991). I felt, through a series of consistent steps, we could condition our animals to tolerate this invasive procedure without resorting to immobilization. Unfortunately, due to the body mass of the species, the procedure required the use of a hand-held transducer to image structures transrectally. The animal(s) must be conditioned to maintain the desired position during the procedure to ensure adequate imaging. A protocol to condition the animals for full confinement within our chute and subsequent ultrasonography procedures had already been drafted. The protocol had been approved, but staff experience impeded its implementation since none of the staff had experience conditioning animals for this type of procedure. But, we had successfully conditioned for routine veterinary examinations, mouth/dentition inspections, blood sampling, etc. without needing to immobilize or confine the animal(s). But the ultrasonography procedure would require the use the chute. I would have preferred to complete the restraint training, then initiate ultrasonography training, but the mechanics of confinement impeded our progress. Confinement involved training of an animal to enter a chute upon request and maintain position until released (see Figures 1 & 2 for views of chute). While the animal is positioned, the door is closed to the chute. The animal is appropriately bridged and rewarded for maintenance of position while a door is moved. Calm demeanor while in the chute is reinforced to begin to establish the desired behavior. However, it was quickly determined that the noise associated with movement of the heavy door behind the animal was having negative implications. At this point, I felt we could slowly acclimate the animal to confinement while initiating our ultrasonography training. By following this pattern I could have the animal conditioned, but not delayed by the problems associated with confinement. Initially, all conditioning involved only one person daily. But, it became apparent that a second person would be needed for these procedures. After discussion with supervisor, I secured the necessary approval to involve additional staff in conditioning. Since there is no time in our schedule dedicated to conditioning, the involvement of additional staff required the cooperation of all personnel in the area. But we felt the opportunity for 396 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 staff exposure to, and involvement in, ultrasonography and confinement training would be invaluable. The animal(s) had previous exposure to the chute and were permitted to transfer through it on a periodic basis. However, it did require some time to acclimate the animal to coming into the chute with the front door closed, and remain there for desensitization. The desensitization for ultrasonography took place in the chute and was conducted daily. In addition, after the morning session was completed, the animal received its grain ration in there. Initially the grain was placed at the entrance to the chute, then gradually moved further inward. While the animal consumed grain ration, staff would periodically enter area to verbally and physically reinforce animal. I felt the time spent focusing on these positive actions would benefit us in the long run. Figure 1. \iew into confinement area. As with any conditioning program, the animal dictates rate of progression. We wanted a prompt response to a command to enter, maintain position within chute (while assuming a relaxed body posture), then exit chute when released before proceeding. The next step involved requesting the animal maintain position while we walked towards its hindquarters. We acknowledged the animal’s compliance, but did not reward at every bridge. As a result, the animal responded to position command and remained there while we walked to hindquarters and returned. Following that, we acclimated the animal to tail manipulation and tactile contact of the anogenital region. At first we would just grasp tail and bridge for acceptance of this procedure. Then we progressed to grasping tail, manipulating it, and rubbing anogenital region while continuing to bridge periodically for relaxed tail and body posture. To continue to desensitize animal to all aspects of the proposed procedure we needed to start to simulate the transducer itself and the insertion process. While one keeper would initiate the transducer desensitization exercise, the second person would remain positioned at the head. To begin, we secured an empty, twelve-cc syringe case and let the animal sniff the case and we Figure 2. View of animal within the chute, but not confined. rubbed it against her skin. We then proceeded to follow routine conditioning procedure, but Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 397 instead of rubbing anogenital region with our hand, we used the syringe case. When the animal was desensitized to this, we would push the S3rringe case gently against the sphincter muscle. As before, keeper conducting the exercise bridged for relaxed body posture and maintenance of position during procedure while second keeper rewarded animal at bridge cue. We felt this method would ensure accurate bridging, and reward, for the posture and calm demeanor we required for this procedure. Subsequent steps involved desensitizing animal to actual insertion of the transducer. We would apply lubricant to the end and sides of the S3rringe case and after pushing against the sphincter muscle, would insert the end of it in the rectum. The progression of this phase involved increasing the length of case inserted into the rectum and the time duration of the insertion. The next transition involved the use of an empty, 60-cc syringe case, but used the same gradual acclimation process. The final step in desensitization (for the transducer) required an increase in the length of the device inserted to simulate the approximate distance required to image reproductive structures. By reviewing Dr. Nan Schaffer’s videotape, (1999), I could estimate this length. I constructed the new transducer simulator using a 60-cc syringe case, length of hose, duct tape and a plastic storage bag. The base of the hose was pushed into the syringe 'case and secured with duct tape. The storage bag was turned inside-out (to avoid sharp edge of bag seal from irritating lining of the rectum) and covered the syringe case and hose to form a continuous, smooth surface. The bag was tightly wrapped and secured to the hose but still provided a quick, easy means of changing the covering. This process ensured the smooth insertion and withdrawal of device. As with the S3rringe case, this device was liberally covered with lubricant. We repeated the same gradual acclimation process with this device and eventually increased the time span the device was in position. All staff had the opportunity to be involved in all aspects of this training as well as the daily conditioning documentation process. We appeared to make consistent, steady progress with the ultrasonography conditioning, but the confinement conditioning was not progressing. We continued to focus on establishing a positive “atmosphere” during the confinement process. But, the animal continued to become agitated when door was closed behind her. However, once door was closed, the animal resumed a relaxed body posture and calm demeanor within one minute. This scenario persisted but we felt that continued desensitization to the door movement was the best avenue to pursue. We also faced the consequences of using this “keeper un- friendly” device for confinement on a regular basis. Only a few of the staff could easily manipulate the shift door and the animal quickly focused on these persons and refused to enter the chute when they were present. This limited our actions but the animal still responded appropriately to all commands by all staff, except when these individuals were in position at the shift door. Thankfully, the supervisor alleviated some of the problem by working on the door rollers, etc. Now all staff are able to move the door and animal could not focus attention on select individuals at shift door. As mentioned, the staff had received the general overview I had written regarding confinement and ultrasonography training. But, to accommodate progress in confinement training and resultant animal response, we went through numerous revisions. I also refined the process itself to ensure consistency. Up to this point the majority of confinement procedures had involved few staff, but with the door repairs completed, we could maximize the training opportunities for staff Participating staff needed to be proficient in all aspects of the confinement so, to this end, I initiated a four step training process. The first step consisted of a verbal review of the procedure and safety guidelines, confinement simulation without the animal, then observation of all aspects of an actual procedure. In the second step the person is actively involved in reinforcing the animal and is responsible for moving the shift door to release the animal. The third step involved 398 Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 9, 2000 closing the door to confine animal and placing the pipes behind the animal. During this step, while the person completes the tasks, an “extra”, trained person stands nearby to assist, if needed. The final step is the completion of the aforementioned tasks but no “back up” person is present. From this point on, the person can function as part of the two-person team required for confinement. The scheduling and training itself seemed to progress with only minor deviation and feedback from staff was positive. With the transducer simulations complete and confinement proceeding, albeit slowly, we had a few more actions required to finalize the desensitization. The animals were accustomed to the Senior Staff Veterinarian and technician, but had no previous exposure to the machine itself. We needed to mimic not only the mobile equipment required for the procedure, but the movement into and down the building as well as manipulation within the confinement area. To this end, we borrowed a noisy television cart with rollers and the television for our training. Initially the device was set at the end of the building and tuned to static. Over the next several days, we moved it closer to the confinement area daily. Once at the confinement area, we desensitized the animal to it and reinforced the animal for proceeding past it. Within a short period of time, the animal did not appear to focus any attention on the device. Then, during our routine conditioning sessions, one person would condition within the chute and second person would manipulate the cart around the area. The final phase of this desensitization was to imitate the actions to be taken when we would perform the actual procedure. Every morning staff would open the chute, then wheel the cart down the hall and into the confinement area, then initiate normal conditioning routine. We progressed with her desensitization to the equipment by having Senior Staff Veterinarian and technician set up equipment, etc. prior to initiating our conditioning routine. We would then proceed with our conditioning and confinement procedure. However, as we progressed, it was determined that the time required to unload and set up equipment and additional staff present was having a detrimental effect. Therefore, we alternated this schedule to see if one method worked better than another. We determined that if we continued with our normal conditioning routine, then confinement while beginning to reinforce desired behavior/position while equipment is set up, it seemed to not only proceed more smoothly, but animal responded positively. And since she was previously desensitized to equipment begin manipulated within the confinement area, she generally did not pay any attention to these activities. This method continues to be used and has proven successful in our situation. The last task to be accomplished was the acclimation of the animal to a person stepping behind it while confined. This is essential since the procedure will require the Senior Staff Veterinarian to be directly behind animal. The pipes, once placed, will provide a space for him to conduct the procedure by prohibiting her from backing into the shift door. As always, this was a gradual process. We started by having a person physically reinforce her while moving towards the hindquarters. Once in position, the person would continue to verbally reinforce while stepping through the pipes. The animal did react to this change in location, but within a short period of time would only shift slightly to view the person as they stepped behind her, then re-focus on the person reinforcing her at the head. At first, all this person did was stand behind her and talk to her. But, we gradually proceeded to having this person rub her hindquarters, then grasp tail and manipulate it. Finally, this person would conduct the probe desensitization from this position to mimic the posture and action of the veterinarian. Throughout the entire training process, the Senior Staff Veterinarian was kept appraised of our progress by verbal communication. We felt, at this point, we were close to the goal of being able to conduct the procedure, but would like him to observe the process. By reviewing the process, animal positioning, and probe desensitization procedure he could make any suggestions for corrections that Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 21, No. 9, 2000 399 might be needed. We did not need to make any corrections per se, but learned exactly | where animal needed to be positioned to accommodate the equipment and its cables. Due to our efforts, we were able to accomplish not only transrectal ultrasonography but, i to a limited extent, transabdominal ultrasonography as well. We continue to perform ! ultrasonography on a weekly basis and we may do the procedure both transrectally and transabdominally. These procedures enable us to evaluate fetal viability and get | measurements of physical structures. Since the procedure may take from 20-60 minutes, we continue to periodically bridge and reward for relaxed body posture and compliance with our positioning requirements. Once the procedure is concluded, the shift door is opened and the release command is issued. At the completion of her release, the animal ■ receives abundant verbal and physical reinforcement. Additionally, we go right back j into the confinement area, sit quietly and reward the animal when she enters the chute, j We do not command her to enter, but rather, provide the option of interacting with us of I her own volition. The animal receives more verbal and physical reinforcement for this action and a whole piece of produce as a “jackpot”. This also permits us the opportunity | to evaluate her attitude and posture as she re-enters the confinement area after just I completing a confinement procedure. We feel that the time we spend serves to reinforce/associate the positive atmosphere in ! the confinement area while adding opportunity for interaction. Animal continues to ' progress and remains relaxed within the chute, and responds promptly to requests. ! However, she still shifts her focus to monitor the movement of the door behind her and is ! hesitant to enter the chute at times. We continue to desensitize her to door movement i and do see subtle improvements. The staff continues to work with her on a regular basis. We now conduct daily fetal assessments by timing the interval between the calf’s kicks (see Figure 3). As mentioned, ultrasonography is done weekly. And, we measure anterior and posterior girth dimensions on a monthly basis. I am also in the final phase of a research project to correlate urine and serum hormone levels with behavioral observations. This project will span 22 months and has provided another educational avenue for area staff. All have participated in either the biweekly, midstream urine collection or weekly blood sampling and as the data becomes available, I post it in the barn for staff review. Figure 3. Staff conducting daily fetal assessment. 400 Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 9, 2000 I feel the participation and cooperation of area staff was imperative to our success. We all gained invaluable experience in conditioning for this procedure. Additionally, I tried to encourage participating staff to volunteer suggestions or changes at any time. I communicated any training protocol changes to staff while coordinating procedures with Senior Staff Veterinarian. Upon reflection, there are minor changes I would have made. The process itself took longer than expected since we discontinued conditioning for various lengths of time depending on introduction schedule and exhibition schedule. But, I feel the results were more than satisfactory, given the obstacles we had to overcome. Acknowledgments I sincerely wish to thank Brett, Lisa, Tracy, Aimee and Kristen for their participation and persistence while conditioning for this procedure. I would also like to thank Agelon Jones, Area Supervisor, and Dr. Wm. Kirk Suedmeyer, Senior Staff Veterinarian, for their encouragement, support and advice throughout this project. References Adams, G.R; Plotka, E.D.; Asa, C.S.; Ginther, O.J. Feasibility of characterizing reproductive events in large nondomestic species by transrectal ultrasonic imaging. Zoo Biology 10:247-259, 1991. Schaffer, Dr. Nan. SOS Rhino. “Semen collection methods, reproductive anatomy and ultrasound images in the rhinoceros” (videotape), 1999. (Photos by author Wendy Shaffstall) Chapter Neivs Notes Kansas City AAZK Chapter Already halfway through the year 2000 and we are busier than ever. In March we held our 13th Annual Bowling for Rhinos bowl- a-thon and raised around $3,000.00. We want to thank all those who bowled, purchased raffle tickets, donated prizes, and of course, our sponsors. This is one battle completely worth fighting for. For the 30th annual “Party for the Planet” in April, we set up a booth showing how the Kansas City Zoological Park was in the past, present and will be 30 years into the future. The day was capped with perfect weather and great attendance. Things we are working on include our 3rd annual “Pie Throwing Contest”. It's not just a good way to raise money, but also releases pent-up frustrations. Our Chapter’s core committee for the 2002 AAZK Conference here in K.C. has selected the site and is working strongly with all facets of our community and other organizations. Of course, fundraising is already underway. Through generous donations from local grants and the AAZK Chapter, we have been successfully tracking our female Black Rhino’s pregnancy through urine, serum, and ultrasound analysis. For all those who are interested in seeing our pregnant cow via “Rhino Cam”, click on to www.thekansascitychannel.co/news/ rhinocam< -Aimee Goldcamp, Chapter Liaison Milwaukee AAZK Chapter Again we had another successful bowling session for Bowling for Rhinos. Keepers from the Racine Zoo joined us and we had a ball! This year we raised $1500.00 from our 30 bowlers. Recently our Zoo had its Conservation Weekend event. The theme for our Chapter was Rhino Hornbill Conservation. At our information booth we sold grab bags full of little goodies, and managed to raise $240.00. Our Chapter then decided to use this money to adopt two Rhino Hornbill families for one year through the Thailand Hornbill Project run by Dr. Pilai Pooneswad. —Earl Conteh-Morgan, Chapter Lisiaon Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 401 Behavioral Enrichment W By Gretchen Ziegler, Sequoia Park Zoo ^ / P and Jan Roletto, Utah's Hogle Zoo This submission offers keepers a way of disguising processed meat fed to carnivores, as well as making the meal last for an extended period of time. Although many zoos are not able to feed out carcass meat, there are lots of ingenious ways to stop the cycle of pan feeding. We would love to hear more ideas! Eds. Hide Roll-Ups Hide roll-ups are inexpensive, easy to make, and a versatile enrichment item appropriate for most carnivores. The Grizzly Discovery Center is fortunate to receive numerous deer, antelope, elk, and moose donations throughout the year. These animals may have been killed on the road or during the hunting season. The Center makes use of these carcasses by first removing the hide, then butchering the meat for later use. Occasionally the entire carcass is offered to our pack of ten wolves. Recently, we have discovered a new enrichment use for the hides. Hide roll-ups are produced by first laying the hide (fur side down) fiat on a cutting surface. Next the hide is cut into strips approximately 16cm x 25cm (6" x 10"). The size can vary depending on the species receiving them. The strips are then rolled up with the fur side on the outside. For an additional bonus, a piece of meat or other safe item can be added to the center of the roll. Finally, the roll-ups are placed in the freezer for at least 24 hours. Because the hide is frozen in a rolled position, tearing it apart is no easy task. The wolves will work up to 20 minutes stripping the fur, tearing into the hide, attempting to expose the meat hidden inside. The brown bears also spend a great deal of time working on the roll-ups. We prefer this form of enrichment because of the natural feeding behaviors elicited. The public seems to learn more by watching the tearing, clawing, scratching, and biting that takes place in the effort. --Daniel Prutzman, Senior Keeper Grizzly Discovery Center West Yellowstone, MT (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 materials for the Enrichment Options Column. This might include recipes, toys, puzzle feeders, olfactory enrichment ideas, etc. Drawings and photos of enrichments are encouraged. Send to: AKF ! Enrichment Options, 3601 SW 29th St., Ste. 133, Topeka, KS 66614-2054. 402 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 Rare Amnr Leopard Bora at Eiotic Feline Breeding Componnd By Camille G. Valenzuela Volunteer ! Staff Member Exotic Feline Breeding Compound, Rosamond, CA The Exotic Feline Breeding Compound’s Feline Conservation Center, located in Rosamond, CA, welcomed the birth of “Sasha”, a healthy, rare Amur leopard {Panthera pardus orientalis) born in late November of last year. Sasha, a female, is a welcome addition to the facility’s already large Amur leopard collection and breeding program. Sasha represents a new generation, produced from the pairing of “Tanya”, an eight- year-old female on loan from the Moscow Zoo, and “Freddi”, a three-year-old male on loan from the Tallin Zoo. According to EFBC’s Amur leopard breeding program, both leopard parents are of unrelated bloodlines, and their success as breeders will help ensure this species survival. Their genetics and medical histories are catalogues in studbooks according to the International Species Inventory system (ISIS), and put into databases and on microchips inserted in each animal. Freddi was brought to the Center as the “#1” male in the world. In other words, Freddi’s genetic line is the least represented in the population. In addition to Tanya, EFBC will introduce Freddi to four other unrelated females. The propensity for genetic defects associated with breeding closely related individuals is avoided by this dilution of bloodlines, and at the same time maintains the purity of the species population without cross-breeding (hybridizing) or inbreeding. Because of its success in breeding the Amur leopard, the Feline Conservation Center has become the top breeder of the sub-species and a notable authority on rearing this large cat in a captive environment. Amur leopards are among the rarest endangered species of “big cat” in the world. To date their world-wide population is less than 140 individuals. Less than 100 exist in captivity in zoos and breeding facilities (EFBC houses nine), and less than 40 survive on protected reserves in the wild. This unique cat teeters on the brink of extinction unless strides are soon made in captive breeding management. Characterized by its large size ~ adult males can weigh up to 65kg (143 lbs.), and measure up to 3m (10 ft.) head to tail - and its long, dark dense fur, the Amur leopard is well- adapted to its wild home. The leopard is native to isolated regions of Northern China and Russia in the Nadezhdinsky and Khasansky regions of southwest Primorye. Most Amur leopards have been driven out of their wild habitats by encroaching human populations as well as from being persecuted as raiders of livestock and hunted by poachers for their luxurious coats. In the wild, an adult male’s territory will overlap a few females’ territories and is between 3-25 square miles (777-6475 hectares) in size. Although the Center cannot supply the large territorial requirements of its largest felines, it makes up for this loss by designing enclosures to be as comfortable and as private as possible. EFBC houses its felines in specially constructed habitats that allow the cats plenty of room to bounce and jump Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No, 9, 2000 403 during playtime, provides individual cats enough {territory” to mark as their own, and adequate privacy to accommodate their solitary lifestyle until mating begins. Enclosures are also designed for easy movement of animals with as little stress as possible. In the wild the Amur leopard’s diet consists mainly of roe deer, wild boar, sika deer and musk deer. At the Feline Conservation Center all of our residents are fed a diet of fresh, raw chicken and horse meat. A high protein, low-fat diet keeps our residents in top physical condition and looking forward to their daily meal. In addition to raw chicken, EFBC will use food as an enrichment item. Felines are fed whole chickens, turkeys and game hens for their birthdays and on holidays. We also give out melons, pumpkins and squash to pique their interest and give them something unique in which to sink their teeth. Many play with the unusual “toys” and some even eat them. And of course, living in a desert community, some of our cats catch the odd snake or bird that happens through their enclosures. Mother “Tanya” with four- week-old 0.1 Amur leopard “Sasha” at the Exotic Feline Breeding Compound in Rosamond, CA. (Photo hy Nancy Vandermey) Typically the Amur leopard mates from J anuary through F ebruary Hov/ever, due to the relatively calm California climate, EFBC’s female felids will go into their heat cycles year-round. The Center tends to keep breeding to a minimum during winter months where temperatures do dip below freezing. In the event a cub, like Sasha, is born in the winter, we monitor its progress closely to ensure that both mother and cub are eating enough to nourish them adequately and keep them warm. Sasha was a “surprise” to us at the Center. Freddi was only placed with Tanya so she could “show him the ropes” - she being the older, more experienced female, and Freddi, the younger, inexperienced “Romeo”. It was with the greatest astonishment and exhilaration that we discovered that Freddi had actually succeeded in breeding this female, and that she delivered safely and chose to raise this cub on her own. When breeding is successful, the average gestation period is between 105-110 days, and 404 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 the average litter size is 1-3 young. Newborn cubs weigh approximately 1 lb. (453g) at birth. Their eyes open within ten days. In the wild, cubs will remain with the mother for 20-24 months. However, EFBC’s mother-raised cubs tend to spend less time with their mothers - between seven and twelve months. The staff theorizes that in their captive environments, leopard mothers become less tolerant of cubs around this time and, for safety’s sake, the Center will move the new cub to its own space. This probably occurs as a result of the enclosures becoming somewhat confining for two felines, especially when one is an energetic youth. While Tanya has taken great care of Sasha, nursing, plajdng with the cub and disciplining it as she would in the wild, the only lesson that she has been unable to teach her offspring is how to hunt and survive in a wild environment. For this reason, cubs raised in captivity, either by their mother or hand-raised - cannot be reintroduced into the wild. The best alternative is to ensure the survival of a genetically pure population in safe, captive habitats. EFBC strives for mothers to raise their own cubs because these cubs tend to socialize faster with their own kind and become better breeders than their hand-reared counterparts. Because Tanya is a very good leopard mother, none of the EFBC staff were able to get close enough to identify the cub’s gender until several months after its birth. In the first few weeks after delivery, few EFBC staff members were allowed in the vicinity of Tanya’s enclosure. Since every new cub’s survival is important to the center’s goals, the staff does not chance any inferred threats that Tanya might sense. As Tanya’s trust in the staff’s intentions grew, more staff members were allowed a glimpse of a leopard mother rearing her cub. However, Tanya’s enclosure in is an area off-limits to the visiting public. Four-week-old Amur leopard (Panthera oardus orientalis) “Sasha” born November 20, 1999 at the Exotic Feline Breeding Compound's Feline Conservation Center in Rosamond, CA. (Photo by Nancy Vandermey) Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 9, 2000 405 EFBC’s - Feline Conservation Center is a 501 ©(3) organization (www.cathouse-fcc.org) dedicated to the preservation and conservation of exotic felines from all over the world. The facility houses 17 species or subspecies of exotic cats from the large and familiar tigers and leopards to the smaller and lesser known margays and jaguarundi (a Species Inventory List accompanies this article). Participating in a world-wider captive breeding effort, the facility works with other zoos and breeding facilities in an effort to repopulate threatened species of felines. EFBC is open to the general public daily except Wednesdays from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. with no admission charge. Exotic Feline Breeding Compound’s - Feline Conservation Center Species Inventory Report As of 6/24/00 Species Males Females Uiikown Total Caracal Lynx Owned and On Site 1 1 0 2 Caracal caracal michaelis In on Loan - - - - Jaguarundi Owned and On Site 1 0 0 1 Herpailvrus yaguarondi fossaia In on Loan - - - - Jaguarundi Owned and On Site - - - - Herpailurus yaguarondi panamensis In on Loan 0 I 0 * Ocelot Owned and On Site 1 0 0 1 Leupardus pardalis In on Loan - • * - Margay Owned and On Site - - - - Leopurdus wiedii In on Loan 0 1 0 1 West Mexican Margay Owned and On Site - - . - Leopardus wiedii glaucula In on Loan 1 0 0 I Serval Owned and On Site 1 0 0 1 Leptailurus serval In on Loan - Lynx Owned and On Site 1 0 0 1 Lynx lynx wr angel i In on Loan - - - Leopard Cat Owned and On Site . - - - Prionaihinis bengalensis euptilura In on Loan 1 1 0 2 Fishing Cat Owned and On Site 3 14 0 17 Prionailurus viverrinus In on Loan 1 0 0 Puma Owned and On Site I 1 0 2 Puma concolor In on Loan - - - - Jaguar Owned and On Site 4 2 0 6 Panthera onca In on Loan 0 1 0 1 Leopard Owned and On Site 5 1 0 6 Panthera pardus In on Loan - ■ Chinese Leopard Owned and On Site 4 5 0 9 Panthera pardus japonensis In on Loan 1 1 0 2 Amur Leopard Owned and On Site 5 5 0 10 Panthera pardus oriental is In on Loan 1 3 0 4 Tiger Owned and On Site 0 1 0 1 Panthera tigris In on Loan - - - * Amur Tiger Owned and On Site 0 1 0 1 Panthera tigris altaica In on Loan - - - - 406 Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 9, 2000 V/o(f Awarene^j Week Celebrate Wolf Awareness Week this year 15-21 October. Twenty-two state governors have issued proclamations for a Wolf Awareness Week in their states. In the Fall of 1999, and this year Defenders of Wildlife and other sponsoring conservation organizations are striving for a national proclamation. Since its inception five years ago, Wolf Awareness Week has been an important vehicle for dispelling misconceptions and educating the public about the role predators play in maintaining biological diversity, and encouraging the public to develop ways to live harmoniously with wild species. This year. Wolf Awareness Week will also be a means to educate the public about the reclassification proposal, and steps they can take on behalf of wolves. The wolf is a striking symbol of wild nature. Its history in the U.S., however, has been one of misunderstanding and persecution which resulted in the near-eradication of the species. Recovery efforts, including reintroductions of this keystone species to the northern Rockies and southwest, is part of a larger effort to restore ecological balance and promote biological diversity. Recently, in light of some recovery success, the USFWS proposed reclassifying wolves from endangered to threatened and in some parts of the country removing all protections for wolves entirely. In California, under the pending proposal, wolves would have no protection. In celebration of Wolf Awareness Week, Defenders of Wildlife will be holding special wolf education events throughout the country, including at many zoos. Commemorative items that will be distributed include Wolf Awareness Week posters and cups listing sponsoring organizations and reminding people to learn about wolves. For information about regional events, visit Defender’s website at www.Defenders.org< Events will be posted to the website by late this month or early in October. Bear Conference Papers Available Online Glasgow Zoopark has digitized the Conference Proceedings “Bears: Their Status, Conservation & Welfare in Captivity”. Contains a selection of papers from a conference held at Glasgow Zoo, Scotland November 1991. These are freely available at: http://bubl.ac.uk/org/zsgws/zoobearl.htm --from ZooNews via Kenneth McMahon, Glasgow Park Webmaster, Glasgow Zoopark, Calderpark, Uddington, Glasgow, G7 1 7RZ; URL: http:!/ Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 407 Book Review Sperm Whales By Jonathan Gordon 1998 Voyageur Press, Inc, 123 North Second Street, Stillwater, MN 55082-5002 72 pgs., paperback, $16.95 Reviews by Shea Cogswell, Registrar Office Assistant Kansas Museum of History, Topeka, KS Sperm Whales by Jonathan Gordon is a good introduction to learning about these swimming mammals. Most of the information is based on studying the sperm whales near the Azores. The book covers a wide range of information about this animal with the text alternating pages with vivid photographs. The book is organized into seven sections with an index at the end. The author has a wealth of information to share with the readers. He covers topics ranging from how they communicate to their diving abilities to the bond between mother and calf. Although the text is well-written and easy to read, the ideas jump around a little. Most of the terminology was thoroughly explained, but there were a few terms that had no definitions. Drawings would have aided in explaining the sperm whale’s anatomy and habitat ranges a little better. The photographs chosen for the book went well with the text concepts. Some of the pictures were unique and demonstrated several behavioral characteristics of the sperm whale. This book could be useful to people in the scientific cummunity, but is probably better suited for the general public. It would be easy reading for adults, but children would have a difficult time with some of the concepts in the book. They would, however, be thoroughly amazed with the pictures and would be able to learn from them. Lions By Brian Bertram 1998 Voyageur Press, Inc. 123 North Second Street, Stillwater, MN 55082-5002 72 pgs., paperback, $16.95 Lions by Brian Bertram is an entertaining and informative book on lions in Africa. Most of the information comes from the author’s and his colleagues’ research done in East Africa. The book highlights 30 years of lion behavior research and has alternating pages of text and wonderful photographs. The book is organized fairly well, especially the last half There are seven chapters and an index. A map of Africa towards the end of the book shows a good layout of the lions’ range. Although the map doesn’t point out any countries in Africa, it gives a good idea of where the lions’ ranges are. The author’s words are both informative and descriptive. The book reads like a mixture of parts of a story and factual accounts of lions. It holds reader interest very well, while teaching and entertaining at the same time. At times there seems to be more usage of adjectives than necessary causing lengthy sentences and some ideas to be confusing. The author covered a broad spectrum of the lions’ lives 408 Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 9, 2000 and was able to pinpoint different aspects of a very lengthy research project into a fairly short book. The text tends to lean more towards a general public audience than the scientific community. The book is not very detail-oriented and would be a good introduction to children and adults about lions in Africa. The reference guide in the back would help people expand their knowledge of the subject matter. This book would even be enjoyed by children too young to read as the photographs depict the lions’ lives in a variety of ways. Editor’s Note: Both of these hooks are a part of the WorldLife Library series. nternationaf Crane Foundation Prcsidenl/CEO to Reti re George Archibald, president and chief executive officer of the Baraboo, Wl-based International Crane Foundation will retire from the organization on 1 November. Archibald is known internationally for his efforts to save wild places around the world and became a local celebrity when he danced a mating dance with Tex, a whooping crane who had imprinted on humans. Archibald, 54, has announced his decision to relinquish day-to-day operations to Jim Harris who has been deputy director since 1988. “In my new role, I hope to become more effective in promoting the conservation of cranes worldwide as I continue as director of the World Conservation Union’s World Working Group on Cranes and as a member of the recovery teams for both whooping cranes and Siberian cranes. Since 1973 when Archibald started the Foundation with the late Ronald Sauey on the Sauey horse farm in central Wisconsin, he has been the driving force behind this non- profit organization which in the past 27 years has achieved a number of conservation milestones including: •Successful breeding in captivity of all 15 species of crane, many for the first time. Those species include seven now listed as endangered and four others proposed for that status. •Contributed isolation-reared birds from its own captive flocks to establish a new, non- migratory flock of whooping cranes in central Florida. •Played a major role in developing the plan, now being implemented, to establish a migratory flock of whooping cranes that nest in central Wisconsin and winter in Florida. •Began similar reintroduction efforts for other endangered crane species in South Korea, the former Soviet Union, Iran, China and Thailand. Some people laughed when Archibald engaged in a mating dance with Tex, a whooping crane who had imprinted on humans. However, without that dance, Tex never would have been receptive to artificial insemination, and her genetic contributions would have been lost to her species. ---Excerpted in part from Milwaukee Journal Sentinel 7/14100 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 409 Institutions wishing to advertise employment opportunities are asked to send pertinent data by the 10th of each month to: Opportunity Knocks I AKF, 3601 SW 29th St., Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614-2054. Please include closing date for positions available, and when setting these dates keep in mind that because of bulk-mail, most readers do not receive the AKF until the middle of the month or later. There is no charge for this service and fax ore-mail listings of positions which become available close to deadline are accepted. Our fax is (785) 273-1980; e-mail is akfeditor@kscable.com< We are no longer located at the Topeka Zoo, so please note new address! ELEPHANT KEEPER ...at The Oregon Zoo, Portland, OR. Trains, handles and works with the zoo’s Asian elephants in free, protected and confined contact systems. Provides daily elephant husbandry including skin care, foot care and exercise. Initiates or provides suggestions to enrich the environment of animals which indicates knowledge of the animal’s natural biology. Develops and implements training programs to facilitate husbandry, behavioral and medical procedures. Minimum two (2) years experience working in an elephant management program, operant conditioning training of animals in a zoo setting. Experience working free, protected and confined contact with elephants preferred. Pay range of $13.65 - $17. 82/hr with excellent benefits package. For application packet and requirements, contact Metro, Human Resource Department, 600 NE Grand Ave., Portland, OR 97232 or call (503) 797-1570. Applications accepted until position filled. KEEPER IV (Assistant to the Curator).., Lion Country Safari is seeking a full-time Assistant to the curator. This is a supervisory position assisting the Curator in managing the wildlife department. The successful candidate must be able and prepared to oversee specific areas of the wildlife department, to assure proper husbandry, display maintenance, and adherence to company policy. He/she may be required to train new personnel in daily routines and safe animal handling practices. He/she must effectively communicate with keepers as well as the management team. Successful candidate will have a minimum of four (4) years paid full-time experience in a recognized zoological facility and will have graduated from a university or college in a related field of study. Supervisory experience preferred and the ability to use computers will be considered an asset. This position requires a motivated person with a positive, mature attitude and an understanding of zoo management practices. Excellent benefits package. Salary commensurate with education and experience. Please send resume including salary requirements and two (2) employment references to: Ron Cameron, Wildlife Manager, Lion Country Safari, 2003 Lion Country Safari Road, Loxahatchee, FL 33470. ZOOKEEPER (ElephantILarge Mammal),., position open in the large Mammal Dept. - Elephant Area (includes 1.2 Asian elephants and 1.1 white rhino). Under general supervision responsibilities include, but not limited to, animal care and observation, record keeping, exhibit maintenance, behavior enrichment, training of elephants under protected contact management. Must have good communication skills, willing to work as a team, and interact positively with the public. Applicant must be willing to work weekends, holidays and overtime. Minimum requirements: graduation from a recognized college or university with an associate’s degree in biology, animal science, zoology, or wildlife management and two (2) years experience working with a large mammal collection including elephants. Applicant must obtain a valid Oklahoma Class “D” Operators driver’s license. Starting salary $11. 86/hr. plus excellent benefits. Send resume by 1 October 2000 to: Karen Dunn, Curator of Large Mammals, Tulsa Zoo, 5701 E. 36*^'^ St. N., Tulsa, OK 74115 or e-mail at Karendunn@ci.tulsa.Qk.us ANIMAL KEEPER . . .responsible for observation, record maintenance, animal care, exhibit cleaning, and assisting in public education. Experience and skill in minor repairs and maintenance is very desirable. Provides coverage for carnivores, hoofstock, and some birds in zoo specializing in wildlife species native to the Intermountain West. Within 2 1/2 hours of Yellowstone and Teton National Parks, Sun Valley, and Salt Lake City; 15 minutes from local skiing, Idaho wildlife, mountain biking, and the Snake river. Position requires six (6) months paid or volunteer experience with wild animals in a zoo or wildlife 410 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 facility. Some college level studies in wildlife management, biology, zoology, or related coursework is desirable. Salary is $11.55 to $13. 59/hr. plus excellent benefits. Submit resumes by 25 September, 2000 to: Human Resources, City of Pocatello, P.O. Box 4169, Pocatello, ID 83205 or Fax to (208) 234-6572. KEEPER... requires B.S. degree in an animal-related field. Responsible for daily animal care, exhibit maintenance, and related duties. This is a newly-created position within a growing 15-acre zoo displaying a diverse collection of mammals, birds, herps, and fish. Salary $8. 75/hr, plus excellent benefits. Send resume/references by 6 October 2000 to: Mike Borders, Director, Scovill Zoo, 71 S. Country Club Rd., Decatur, IL 62521-4470. CARNIVORE KEEPER... immediate opening in a private, non-profit conservation facility. We are looking for a dedicated individual who is willing to work with a variety of carnivores. Experience working with exotic animal preferred. Responsible for daily husbandry, diet preparation, and care of animals and enclosures. Must be a team player and willing to work weekends and holidays. For more information about our facility check us out at http://www.cptigers.org. Send cover letter/resume to: Carnivore Preservation Trust, 1940 Hanks Chapel Road, Pittsboro, NC 27312. Resumes may also be faxed to (919) 542-4454 or emailed to cptigers@mindspring.com< ZOOKEEPER... Happy Hollow Zoo, San Jose, CA is accepting applications to establish a list for full-time/part-time zookeeper positions. We are looking for individuals who have had paid experience working in a zoo, and bring with them a desire to do more than the minimum required, ability to work in a harmonious manner with staff, volunteers and supervisors, and work any of the seven days of the week. We want people who can take on the responsibility of helping to make our zoo a pleasant experience for our guests. Responsible for daily routine of animal husbandry, maintenance of exhibit and off-exhibit areas, record keeping and assisting in veterinary procedures. Prefer AS/BS degree in biology/zoology. Salary $26,628.00-$32,364.00 annually plus excellent benefits. Closes 16 October 2000. Contact Shellie Anderson at (408) 2^-4702 for an application and any questions you may have. REPTILE COLLECTION MAN ACER... requires two (2) years professional experience working with a diverse collection of reptiles, including venomous species, and a Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate field. Equivalent experience may be substituted for a degree. Candidates for the position should possess strong collection management/planning/ propagation skills, strong exhibitry skills including live plant maintenance and familiarity with filtration systems, and the experience necessary to contribute to the design of a new facility currently in the planning stages. Responsibilities will also include assistancS are desirable. Please send/fax cover letter, resume and three (3) references to: Anthony Wisnieski, Curator of Reptiles and Amphibians, The Baltimore Zoo, Druid Hill Park, Baltimore, MD 21217; Fax (410) 545-7397. EOE. KEEPER II IBirds... requires at least two (2) years paid experience as a zookeeper, preferably with an AZA-accredited institution; basic knowledge of behavioral conditioning; experience working with a variety of birds; high school diploma; good public speaking skills and desire to share with the public; good physical condition and ability to lift 50 lbs.; the ability to work well with others in a team setting. Wage: $10. 00/hour and excellent benefit package. Send resume to: Nancy Hollenbeck, Assistant Director, Santa Barbara Zoological Gardens, 500 Ninos Drive, Santa Barbara, CA 93103. ANIMAL IIANDLERITRAINER...¥uioii's Berry Farm, in conjunction with the USDA Forest Service, is currently seeking a qualified candidate for its Smokey's Animal Friends educational program. Qualifications include experience handling various species of exotic animals, excellent presentation/communication skills, and good physical abilities. Responsibilities include presentation of native and exotic animals for school assembly programs and on-site educational shows, daily animal care and feeding, exhibit maintenance, record keeping and behavioral enrichment. Begin at entry level position Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 9, 2000 411 with advancement opportunities available. Send resume to: Knotf s Berry Farm, Animal Attractions Department, 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, CA 90620 or phone Karen Norris (714) 220-5346. The following three (3) positions are available at Wildlife Waystation located in Angeles National Forest, CA, For any of the positions fax letter and resume to: Wildlife Waystation, Attn: Larry (818) 252-1299; or e-mail bwenners@wavstation.org< Be sure to indicate which position you are applying for when sending your resume. CURATORIMANAGER...hdiX].ds-on. under the direction of the facility director, plans, coordinates and supervises the activities of the support staff responsible for the daily animal care and operation of the Wildlife Waystation’s diverse collection of rescued animals including native and exotic species. Essential functions may include: training of volunteer staff and other volunteers, preparing and assigning work schedules; inspecting animal areas and exhibits; conferring with director, veterinarians, and keepers regarding condition of animals, areas/exhibits, and enrichment. Qualifications: degree in biology, zoology, wildlife management a plus, or other related field experience or equivalent; minimum of five (5) years of related experience, with one (1) year of supervisory experience; technicalskills related to the management of a large animal population, supervisory and management skills a must. Willingness to work various hours. Salary commensurate with experience. Housing provided at the facility, benefits. INTERNSHIPIWILDLIFE ANIMAL KEEPER,„^i\\ receive intensive hands-on training in the care and maintenance of a large and varied population of native and exotic wildlife. This is a rescue facility for orphaned, abused and unwanted animals; housing many species from chimpanzees and other primates to large felines, bears, canines, birds and many more. Will experience all aspects of husbandry including general cleaning, feeding, record keeping, enrichment, veterinary care, etc. Seeking individuals who are interested in developing a career in an animal-related field. Internships available year-round in many areas of the facility. SUPERVISOR LEVEL CHIMPANZEE KEFPFig... hands-on under the direction of the facility director, plans, coordinates and supervises the activities of the support staff responsible for the daily care and operation of the Wildlife Waystation’s population of chimpanzees. The supervisor will implement animal husbandry practices with other staff members. Essential functions may include: training of volunteer staff and other volunteers; preparing and assigning work schedules; inspecting animal areas and exhibits,; conferring with the director, veterinarians, and keepers regarding condition of animals, areas/exhibits, day to day cleaning and feeding and enrichment. Qualifications: a minimum of five (5) years supervisory experience working with multiple chimpanzees. Degree in biology, zoology, wildlife management or other related field from an accredited university if preferred. Seeking an individual with advanced technical skills related to the management of a large animal population. Willing to work various hours. Salary commensurate with experience. Housing provided at the facility, benefits. POSITIONS AVAILABLE, .,Sh2iY^ Reef, a new multi-million dollar aquarium located in Las Vegas is seeking qualified individuals for herpetologist, horticulturist, and senior aquarist positions. All candidates will be responsible for the husbandry of numerous species of fresh and saltwater fish, in addition to their area of speciality. Those with previous zoo or aquarium experience will be preferred. Preference will be given to candidates who are SCUBA certified. Employees are required to dive in any of the aquaria, including a 1.1 million gallon shark tank. Salary and benefits are unsurpassed in the industry. If any of these positions are of interest, please e-mail your resume (MS Word 6.0 format) to insculpta@hotmail.com or fax to (702) 632-6856 to the attention of Raymond A. Samure, Senior Conservation Scientist. 412 Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 9, 2000 AAZK Membership Application check here if renewal [ ] Name Address City State^rovince Zip □ U.S. Members $35.00 Professional Full-time Keepers □ Canadian Members $35.00 Professional Full-time Keepers □ $30.00 AmUate Other staff & volunteers □ $35.00 AffiUate Other staff & volunteers □ □ $30.00 Associate Those not connected with an animal facility $60.00 or up - Individuals Contributing^.S. □ □ $35.00 Associate Those not connected with an animal facility $60 or up - Individuals Contributing/Canada □ □ $100.00 or up Institutional/U.S. Organizations i Institutions (requires Board approval) International Members $50.00 International All members outside U.S. & Canada regardless of category □ □ $100.00 or up Institutional/Canada Organizations / Institutions (requires Board approval) Library Only 35.00 Library Available only to public & university libraries Zoo Affiliation (if any) Zoo Address Title ______ Work Area □ My check is enclosed (AAZK, Inc.) □ Please charge my credit card MASTERCARD Name on card ~ VISA Card # Signature -Expiration date Mail this application to: AAZK Administrative Offices, 3601 S.W. 29th, Suite 133 Topeka, KS 66614. Make checks/money orders payable to AAZK, Inc. Must be in U. S. FUNDS ONLY. Membership includes a subscription to Animal Keepers ' Forum. The membership card is good for free admission to many zoos and aquariums in the U.S. and Canada. PRINTED IN U.S.A ©2000 AAZK, INC. c W H 0) U s» o jy 3 \ :« O »+ H. o s 3" f-t {-»• M- 0 3- 3 n 3 m % ca 0 SI 0 % ri* 3 r«« 3 X 0 3 H. X 3 « N* Si X n 0 3 X O r>* 0 k n H - r-- H X n » 3 s; w c ta X X Sf jy 3 X 32> 3 « X X {;/©'* p M O » H. 3, Ot m cr w 0J2 a 3 X J-t c • 21 m 3 o W *-« i§ a (s S3 us H n » a? 3> TJO -C ?? Os ff) w; CO CO o ANIMAl KEEPERS F O R U IV Ail Rights Reserved Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 10, 2000 419 SIIOO AAZK and Animal Keepers’ Fornm Awards The following awards were presented at the 27th National AAZK Conference held in Columbus, OH from 8-12 October 2000. The Certificates of Recognition and Certificates of Appreciation are given by the AAZK Board of Directors. The distinguished Service Plaque is presented on behalf of the Association. The Excellence in Journalism Awards are selected by the editorial staff of Animal Keepers’ Forum. Distinguished Service Award Columbus Chapter of AAZK, Inc. AAZK 2000 National Conference Host Chapter Certificate of Appreciation Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Powell, Ohio AAZK 2000 National Conference Host Institution Certificates of Appreciation Beth Pohl, AAZK 2000 National Conference Chair Gretchen Bickert, Pat Currie, John Curton, Melody Heilman Amy Lavender, Nanci Pintavalli, Shelly Roach and Scott Shelley Members of the AAZK 2000 National Conference Executive Board Excellence in Journalism Awards Outstanding Husbandry Article 'To Bag a Dik-Dik: Another Option in Small Antelope Management” December 1999 Issue of Animal Keepers' Forum Todd Sinander, The Philadelphia Zoo, Philadelphia, PA Outstanding Husbandry Article “Bat Enrichment Survey” July 1999 Issue of Animal Keepers’ Forum Dana LaBlanc, The Lubee Foundation, Gainesville, FL 420 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 10, 2000 Outstanding Husbandry Article ''Accounts of One Successful and One Unsuccessful African Wild Dog Litter'’ August 1999 Issue of Animal Keepers' Forum Pamela Schaller-Lopez, Honolulu Zoo, Honolulu, HI Outstanding Husbandry Article "Conditioning Three Species ofAridland Antelope for Weight Collection - A Case Study of Hippotraginae" May 2000 Issue of Animal Keepers' Forum Joseph Robertia, Rochelle Willison and Jason Sauceda Dallas Zoo, Dallas, TX Outstanding Husbandry Article "Introduction and Acclimation of Two Species of Old World Fruit Bats to the 'Cliffs of Anandpur' : A Free Flight Exhibit at Disney's Animal Kingdom 1999 Conference Proceedings Rachel Cantrell, Mark Chag, Caroline Cooke and Brian Pope Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Lake Buena Vista, FL Outstanding Cover Art Jaguar (Panthera onca) October 1999 Issue of Animal Keepers' Forum Paul Kmiotek, Queens Wildlife Center, Flushing, NY Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 10, 2000 421 AAZK Book Sale Sale price is 20% of the Suggested Price. Previous hooks may still be available, with some price increases. Sug. $ Sale $ Item Title & Description ^18.00 $14.40 $15.95 $12.76 $14.00 $11.20 $30.00 $24.00 $12.95 $10.36 $14.95 $11.96 $13.95 $11.16 $24.00 $19.20 $39.50 $31.60 $25.00 $20.00 Bird Brains: The Intelligence of Crows. Ravens. Magpies and Jays - Candace Savage - An illustrated examination of the lives and behaviors of corvids. 144 pgs. paper. A Parrot Without A Name: The Search for the Last Unknown Birds on Earth - Don Stap - an account of the collection, description and identification of remote Amazonian Avifauna. 240 pgs. paper. The Beak of the Finch: A Story of Evolution in Our Time - Jonathan Weiner - a real life, real-time recording of Galapagos finch evolution in the flesh. 336 pgs. paper Birding bv Ear: Eastern/Central U.S.: A Guide to Bird Song Identification - Richard K. Walton & Robert W. Lawson. Fore ward by Roger Tory Peterson - Listening tips “exactly what to listen for” for 85 common species arranged into 17 groups. 64 pgs. 3 CDs or cassettes Outwitting Critters: A Humane Guide to ConfrontingPevious Animals and Winning - Bill Adler, Jr. - Non-lethal solutions for humane effective combat of pests. 272 pgs. paper Stones of Silence: Journeys in the Himalaya - George B. Schaller - an account by the world famous biologist of his travels while studying fauna “at the roof of the world” . 292 pgs. paper Reflections of Eden: My Years with the Organgutans of Borneo - Birute M.F. Galdikes - the remarkable story of this pioneering primatologist and her 20 years of discovery with these great apes. 432 pgs. paper Tracking and the Art of Seeing: How to Read Animal Tracks & Sign - Paul Rezendes - Identify animal tracks and “sign”. Distinguish between similar animals whose marks are similar. 320 pgs. paper Living Dragon: A Natural History of the World’s Monitor Lizards - Rodney Steele - this illustrated volume examines the evolution, habits, lifestyles and biology of the world’s great lizards. 160 pgs. hardcover Silent Thunder: In the Presence of Elephants - Katy Payne - This book is a rich natural history and a personal story of her field work in Kenya, Namibia and Zimbabwe. 288 pgs. hardcover To Order: List the items you are ordering along with your name and complete mailing address. Include a shipping fee of $3 for the first item and $2 for each additional item. Checks payable to; “AAZK Book Sales” (US FUNDS ONLY - NO CASH OR COD’s please). Call or fax for shipping fees when ordering from outside the continental U.S. before sending any money. Please call, write or fax your request before sending any money. We will help find the best form of shipment. Mail requests to: AAZK be Beardsley Zoo Chapter, attn: Linda Tomas, 1875 Noble Ave., Bridgeport, CT 06610-1600 Phone: (203) 394-6563 Fax (203) 394-6566 E-mail: berdsleyz@aol.com 422 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 10, 2000 H ow do you formulate life-saving milk replacers to meet each species’ special nutritional needs? The answer — Milk Matrix from Zoologic® Nutritional Components. Milk Matrix is a line of 7 milk replacers that can be used alone or blended to closely simulate the protein, fat, and carbohydrate content of the milk you’re substituting. With the Zoologic Milk Matrix System you get complete easy-to-read milk matrix formulations, nutritional analyses, species specific data sheets and exact mixing instructions. Everything you need for optimal health. Find out more about the Milk Matrix system. Call 1-800-323-0877 and make saving lives a little easier to handle. Because saving lives can be a bear. nutritional components Questions? Call 1 -800-323-0877 for answers. A product of PetAg, Inc. AAZK Workplace 2000 Survey Results By Ed Hansen, Executive Director American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. In 1991, the Association responded to concerns from the membership on the state of the association by conducting a survey on our membership services. This survey also touched on aspects of the profession, such as years of service and salaries. With the Association plugging along in good health, interest has turned to money. In the past few years, I have received many questions from colleagues regarding average salaries, experience and education levels for both entry level and tenured zoo keepers. Most recently, the Association was asked to provide a statistical analysis of minorities within the zoo keeping profession and I was unable to provide the answer. When you review the data gathered in the 2000 Workplace Survey, please keep in mind that unless otherwise noted, the survey reflects results submitted from the entire profession. Surveys were received from Directors to volunteers and every conceivable job title in between. The end result is a demographic overview of the profession. It should be noted that this was a survey, not a census. There were a very significant number of responses; enough to provide a very broad perspective to the animal care profession. More information is needed to provide a complete picture of the profession with all its job classifications and descriptions. Background 75% Female 25% Male Ethnic background 95% White/Caucasian 4% Minority <1% African American arkabc@arkanimals.com< or via regular mail toARKANIMALS.COM, PO. Box 1154, Escondido, CA 92033 USA.) Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 10,, 2000 431 Using Operant Conditioning to Weigh 1.1 Southern White Rhinos {Ceratotherium simum simum) By Linda Pill, Animal Keeper I and Brad Hange, Senior Keeper The Baltimore Zoo, Baltimore MD The Baltimore Zoo began using operant conditioning training techniques in 1994 to improve the daily management of our 1.1 southern white rhinos {Ceratotherium simum simum). Among other things, the training has allowed us to treat minor wounds more easily, perform annual vaccinations using a pole syringe, and elicit voluntary blood draws. In April of 1999 we put our training program to the test when we decided to try to weigh our rhinos. Without a restraining chute or built-in floor scale, we realized that training was the only way we could successfully accomplish this. With our new goal clearly defined, we set out to design and construct a special weighing platform. It is comprised of two 4' x 8' pieces of plywood, several reinforcing 2"x 4" wood pieces, and two 1" x 3" wood pieces (Figure 1), The platform was designed so that it would be able to shift slightly to support the initial weight of the rhino, but would clear the floor when the rhino was positioned in the center. 1= rx/|"board ;= 1”xr board Figure 1. Bottom view of weigh, board design. We currently use nine different commands during the 10-20 minute training sessions. We use a clicker as a bridge and alfalfa cubes, produce, and brushing as reinforcement. Stubby, a seven-year-old captive born male, was selected to begin the weigh board training program because he is enthusiastic and usually learns very quickly. Through a series of slow desensitizations and successive 432 Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 10, approximations, we were able to use simple, already established commands to achieve our goal. The following is the step-by-step process the rhino training team at The Baltimore Zoo used to successfully weigh our 1.0 white rhino using operant conditioning without the assistance of a restraining devise. 1. Stubby was conditioned to readily move back and forth between two pens to allow us access to set up our equipment. 2. A 4' X 8' piece of plywood was set in the hallway outside his pen every night for a couple of weeks. It was moved around each night and placed in many different locations. He frequently sprayed it with urine when it was close enough to the bars of his pen. 3. We progressively slid the board into his pen under the horizontal bars over the course of several days. He continued to mark and investigate it. He often rubbed his horn on it and pushed it around. 4. He was then instructed to target (we use a broom handle with the end covered in duct tape as our target) near the board. He was then asked to steady (hold entire body still) adjacent to the board. Finally, he was targeted and steadied on top of the board with all four feet evenly distributed on the surface. 5. The board was then elevated using 2"x 4" boards and other wood scraps. This was done over the coarse of several days until the platform height was approximately 4". It became very important to reinforce the practice platform in many places to prevent the wood from cracking! 6. We used 3 1/2" square blocks of wood to substitute for the scale probes. The wood blocks were placed under the platform on the 1" by 3" wood strips as it was put into the pen. This allowed us to perfect our technique before jeopardizing the expensive equipment. It also allowed Stubby to experience the uneven surface of the board as well as the shifting of the platform under his body weight as he stepped on to it. 7. The new, permanent platform (Figure 1) was then placed in the hallway near his pen every night for about a week in order for him to mark it and become accustomed to it. We then repeated the preceding steps with the new board, but in much less time. 8. The scale probes were set up underneath the platform (which weighs about 200 pounds!) in the pen. The scale we use is a Gage Tek RBIOOP portable platform scale that consists of four separate 3 1/2" probes connected to a central control box. (For more information call (916) 853-1265 or see the web site at http:// www.gagetek.com) 9. Stubby was asked to target and steady just in front of the platform. We found it helpful to hold him steady for a few minutes where he could see the platform in front of him. Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 10, 2000 433 Weighing platform supported by scale probes. (Photo @ The Baltimore Zoo. Photo by Christine Bartos) 10. The target command was used to get him to step onto the platform a few steps at a time. 11. Once on top of the platform it became necessary to shift his weight from side to side using an extended target stick to maneuver his head. Unless he was positioned directly in the center, the corners of the platform would touch the ground and alter the accuracy of the measurement. We also used the “hack” command to get him positioned exactly. 12. A remote target, a six-inch Boomer Ball® covered in duct tape and suspended from the ceiling, was used to get him to step off of the platform. This made it possible for him to step forward off of the platform as well as to distract him from moving it with his horn. At his last weighing. Stubby was 4,444 pounds! (2015kg) We continue to use the weigh board regularly in our training sessions and have started to work with our significantly older, wild-caught female in the same manner. 434 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 9, 2000 1.0 rhino, Stubby, standing on weighing platform performing “steady” command. {Photo of Albert Olson, Animal Keeper II @ The Baltimore Zoo. Photo by Christine Bartos.) Acknowledgements Thanks to Steve Maltese, Veterinary Technician (“technical scale expert”). Also thanks to Christine Bartos, Senior Keeper, Steve Sarro, Curator, and all of the members of the rhino training team at The Baltimore Zoo: Gil Myers, Albert Olson, and Corey Fuhrer. Wildlife Veterinary Seminar at the California Wolf Center WOLF HAmiim & CHEMICAL IMMOBILIZATION FOR WILDLIFE MANAGERS AND RELATED PERSONNEL Presented by Wildlife Veterinarian, Mark Johnson, of Wildlife Veterinary Resources January 18-20, 2001 Cost: $350 ($375 after January 5*^ 2001) Three Day Course Indudes immobilization, handling and veterinary care for gray wolves; detailed course materials, pen design, physical restraint, drugs, delivery systems, documentation, disaster & emergency prep. Training ideal for breeding programs, zoos, captive wildlife facilities, animal control agencies & field personnel. For more details & a brochure visit: www.californiawolfcenter.org/mjohnson.htm Send Email to wolfctr^ulian-ca.com; or Call 619/234‘WOLF (9653) Location: San Diego County, CA - Seating is Limited to 25, Register Now! Advertising Paid for by Defenders of Wildlife Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. JO, 2000 435 ^ £ y\ c r / a A' £ /\(iue5ffoiiJid;\/5iferforuM/ortkZooFn/‘e55m(7/oiOjs/5f((na^et£if ^ William K Baker, Jr., Zoo Curator Frank Buck Zoo, Gainesville, TX Question How can an impending animal birth effect behavior patterns and safety? Comments The impending birth of a new animal can be a real exciting time for staff members. Renewal within the cycle of life is what conservation is all about and when it happens we know that as animal professionals we have succeeded in the survival of a species. Still, like so many other components of our profession there are associated risks. The first area that should be addressed is, “Was the breeding a desired or recommended breeding?”, if not, then this takes the discussion in a totally different direction. Facility and industry guidelines will come into play to determine a course of action. But, for the sake of discussion, let’s assume that the breeding was a desired one and the staff is expecting the impending birth. The first real indication of pregnancy and an impending birth will be subtle changes in behavior patterns, followed by physiological changes during gestation, and finally post- birth behavior. Basically, pre-partum, parturition, and post-partum. Pre-partum Behavior Activity patterns may indicate subtle or notable changes. Specifically, normal pathways on exhibit may be altered or not used altogether in favor of new ones. Time usage at resting sites on-exhibit may begin to vary or normal resting sites on- exhibit may be abandoned altogether in favor of new ones. Scent marking patterns and territorial boundaries may begin to shift in favor of new ones resulting from altered activity patterns. Shifts in the social heirarchy may occur, resulting in conspecific aggression. New social behaviors may be present, ranging from variations in social grooming up to transferred aggression. Parturition Behavior Individual grooming habits may begin to become more excessive prior to birth. Extensive time may be spent in search of a den or nesting site. Specimen may isolate itself and refuse to come off display. 436 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. JO, 2000 Post-partum Behavior Specimen may become reclusive and protective of newborn(s) resulting in aggression if disturbed. Specimens that have a history of aggression may become more stable after birth. However, this is a double-edged sword. An animal that was once consistently aggressive, can now gravitate to extremes and should be considered highly unpredictable. The mate may begin to take up a position near the den or nest and exhibit what can be best described as “guard behavior”. Inconsistent shifting on and off exhibit should be expected. Relocation of newborns should be expected when dealing with felids. The human factor should not be overlooked in this equation. It’s extremely easy to lose sight of daily checks and balances when looking at newborns. In short, don’t let the curves of the situation throw you off balance. Stick to routines as much as possible. It inherently keeps the safety where it should be and conditions the animals, new and old alike. Remember to keep visitors to a minimum. Extensive physical pressure can have a detrimental effect on the well being of mother and offspring. If the animals are housed in a wing or nighthouse with the same or similar species it should be expected that their behavior patterns will be altered as well. Zoo keepers should be watchful for any variations in established patterns. This may prove to be difficult when all the attention is focused on the kids. Which leads to another area of concern, don’t let the situation distract you from providing the usual amount of attention to the rest of your animal charges. The greatest possible problem facing the staff will undoubtedly be the mental disruption of their personal routine. Once an established routine and the training associated with it has been “broken”, the potential for an accident is definitely there. This requires an individual to literally scroll through their daily duties and ensure that nothing has been overlooked. Some people handle this with written checklists or notes, others depend on recall. Checklists are probably the best way to keep everyone on the same page in a teamwork environment. Another method is to use checklists on a dry erase board in the keeper work area. I have found these to be highly effective when placed where the staff actually enters the work area. The important thing is to pay attention to the details. In December: What options are available for emergency or temporary housing for animals? 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, Tbpeka, KS 66614Attn; Reactions/AKF. (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.) Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 10, 2000 437 Career Resources: Zoo Keeping/Working Many of you may be faced from time to time with questions about careers working with animals, and specifically working in a zoo. Others of you may provide career presentations dealing with zookeeping to students or at career fairs. Over the past several months I have come upon several resources which may be of help to you in planning your own programs, or for recommending to those individuals with questions about the zookeeping profession or working with animals in other capacities. Zoo Keeping/A Job in the Zoo - This video, produced by the Adelaide Zoo Education Service in cooperation with Channel 10 in Adelaide, features two 17-minute segments dealing with zoo keeping as a career. The first section entitled “Zookeeping” looks at the range of duties that a zoo keeper performs, what are the qualifications for the job, what type of training is needed, etc. This segment was particularly memorable for the brief interviews with keepers, a supervisor and general curator who spoke of what brought them to the profession and what they liked most about it. This portion of the video also features some really good footage of keepers at work doing everything from feeding and cleaning to providing enrichment and doing behavioral observations. The second 17-minute segment of the video is entitled “A Job in the Zoo” and focuses on the wide variety of jobs available in a zoo, the qualifications needed for each job and the type of work involved for each position. This segment also includes interviews with a zoo vet, horticulturist, education department employee, graphics department worker, maintenance supevisor and a marketing manager. One of the things I liked most about this video was the glimpses it gave the viewer into the personalities of the zoo keepers, hearing them talk about their job, why they liked doing it and why it was a satisfying career choice for them. There is some super footage of critters at the Adelaide Zoo as well. This video is available for purchase from the Adelaide Zoo Education Service, Frome Road, Adelaide, South Australia 5000. If ordering from North America, be sure to request the video in VHS/NTSC format so it will be viewable in your VCR. The PAL format will work for Europe and Australia; and SECAM is for France. The cost of the video is $29.00 (AUS$) [plus $11.50 (AUS$) for postage and handling]. Since currency exchange rates vary, it is best purchased with a credit card authorization. They will accept BankcardA^isa/Mastercard. To order send your name and complete mailing address along with your credit card type, card number, cardholder name, and expiration date to the address listed above. Be sure to specify tape type preference. with Animals 438 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 10, 2000 Working with Animals; The UK. Europe & Worldwide by Victoria Pybus was published in 1999 by Vacation Work, 9 Park End Street, Oxford UK, but may be ordered through a number of bookstores in the US including Barnes & Noble. US cost is $19.95; UK price is £11.95. Website: www.vacationwork.co.uk This book contains a wealth of information on many different career opportunities working with animals - ranging from vet- erinary work to zoo work, rescue dog handlers to field research workers; from marine biologists to riding instructors; and from circuses to working for animal charities and welfare organizations. Part I - the UK - discussses professions and the qualifications required for each. It also includes a directory of UK animal organizations, and a listing of UK zoo and safari parks . Part II - Europe - features country guides and information about working abroad, including student exchange programs. Part III - Worldwide - covers information on working with animals in the U.S. and Australia, volunteer internships available, entry and working visa requirements, etc. A good resource included in the book is a list of worldwide organizations with animal-related projects. The book is worth the price alone for the contact information provided for many zoos, wildlife parks, conservation organizations and related groups. One would be hard-pressed to find all this information in a single place elsewhere. OUTDOOR CAREERS: Exploring Occupations in Outdoor Fields. 2nd Edition by Ellen Shenk was published by Stackpole Books, 5067 Ritter Road, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 in 1992. website: www.stockpolebooks.com U.S. price is $16.95, higher in Canada While this book does not concentrate exclusively on careers working with animals, it does include valuable information on many animal-related careers including Farming, Aquatic Biology, Veter- inary Technology, Zoology, Animal Training, Wild- life Park Management and Conservation. It also cover information on such diverse “outdoor” careers as Beekeeping, Landscape Architect, Forestry Supervisor, Oceanographer, Environ mental Engineer, Commercial Diver, and Wilder- ness Guide. Each section of the book covers career options, needed training and education, resources for job searches, and a profile of someone actually working at that job \Aforidng with Animals The UK, Europe ^ Worldwide Victoria I^bus Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 10, 2000 439 (i.e. Elephant Keeper, Meterologist, Outdoor Writer and Trail Builder, etc.) Chapter 3 - Biological Sciences does concentrate more on zookeeping, animal caretaking and animal training. Each Career Profile is broken down into a description of the career, educational and experience requirements, salary ranges to be expected and employ- ment outlook for that field. At the end of each Chapter is a Resource Listing of organizations and agencies involved in that particular career field with contact information, phone numbers, website addresses, etc. Chapter 9, entitled Indoor Careers with an Outdoor Twist, covers such career options as wildlife and nature artist, teacher, writer/editor, conservation and environmental organization work, museum work, and wildlife photographer. Chapter 10 offers some job-search tips, guidelines for writing resumes and interview suggestions. Appendices cover sources for job listings, U.S. and Canadian sources for labor market information, and opportunities in government employment. All in all, quite a good resource when considering outdoor careers, whether dealing directly with animals or not. Both books reviewed here should probably be on every high school career counselor’s desk. Hope they prove helpful to you when you are asked animal career questions. --AKF Editor Websites to Check Out Zoo and Conservation Centers Pan African Zoological Gardens www.ZooWeb.com www.paazab.org/aboutpaazab/index.html Canadian Association of Zoo and Aquariums Elephant Manager’s Association www.caza.com www.elephantmanagers.com American Zoo and Aquarium Association ww.aza.org World Conservation Monitoring Center www.wcmc.org.uk/ South East Asian Zoo Association www.seaza.org Assoc, of British Wild Animal Keepers www.wwwebspace.co.uk./~abwak/ I European Elephant Managers Assoc. www.eekma.org Elephant Management and Owners Assoc. www.eoma.org.za World Zoo Organization Links to Interest Keepers www.wzo.org/ http://araneum.mudservices.com/veedeer/keeper.html Australian Aquaria and Zoos Global Zoo Directory WWW. geology, anu.edu. au/~j aws/ ww w. cbsg. org/gzd .htm Australian Regional Association of Zoological Parks and Aquaria ww w. worldzoo . org/arazpa/ European Association of Zoos and Aquaria German Assoc, of Zookeepers WWW. eaza . net/ http : home . t-online . de/home/bdzPricken/ homepage.htm Union of Czech and Slovak Zoos http ://gat e . vosj i . cz/U C SZ 440 Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 10, 2000 Handraisinq and Re-intpoduction ofC ommon Marmosets: A Laijmans Experience By Kim A. Rendall Highwater Farms, Kipling, NC My husband and I acquired a large group of common marmosets {Callithrix jacchus) in 1996. Since I knew nothing about these small primates. I gathered basic information from books and articles, which helped on the day-to-day care once they arrived. I needed more “in depth” information, especially when the unavoidable problems would arise, so I called several universities that raised marmosets. Some of the information I’d gotten was discouraging, but over the years I’ve learned a few things from trial and error and observation. I had been told that 1) handraising newborn marmosets was difficult and the survival rate very low; 2) it was hard to re-introduce the surviving hand-raised young into a group; and 3) if the handraised young didn’t go through a birthing process they normally did not take care of their own babies. I have learned since that 1) handraising and a high survival rate are not difficult, but are time-consuming and exhausting; 2) Re- introduction is not hard as long as the meetings are supervised in order to watch for any aggressive behavior. And 3) I have heard that some handraised marmosets will take care of their young without having gone through a birthing process, but I have not yet tried this with any of ours. Now let me say that there are those of us who can let nature take its course and not intervene. Then there are those of us, of which I am one, who are unable to stand by when an animal is in need of help. In the wild there are no humans to intervene, but while in the care of humans, whether it be breeding facilities, zoos, universities, etc., intervention is a choice. Also, we are more interested in producing marmoset-raised breeders than in raising them for the pet trade because our business revolves around zoos, universities and educational programs. Also, in doing rescues of primates from pet environments over the years, we have found that many pets ended up in bad situations, albeit through ignorance and lack of Common Marmoset {Callithrix jacchus) information on the human side. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 10, 2000 441 Birthing and Pulling to Handraise I have notices that birthing normally occurs very late at night or very early morning. The window of time seems to be between 2300-0400 hrs. I have been fortunate to witness several birthings. It’s an amazing process, as any birth is. The male seems to hover around the female, and older offspring (if there are any and if this is their first birth) seem very curious as to what is happening. The female gives birth and goes through the process of cleaning the babies. She cleans up the afterbirth, usually with the help of the male and older offspring. Some females keep the babies with them the first day and some allow the male to take them shortly after birth. The babies are on the male the majority of the day and given to the female for nursing, but seem to stay on the female at night. If there are older offspring, they help with the babysitting usually after the first day or two. I pull babies to handraise only if there are more than two born, or if there appears to be a problem with parental care. I have heard of females caring for triplets and all three surviving, but I have not had this happen. Someone gets fewer feedings and eventually becomes too weak to hold on and ends up at the bottom of the cage. The babies normally don’t make it when it gets to that point and they’ve become chilled, though I have had a few survive. In the case of triplets or quads, I pull the extra babies by late afternoon. I have waited until the next morning in some cases, but in my opinion it’s best to pull them by afternoon of the first day. In the case of abuse or neglect, I pull them at once. I use miniature marshmallows as special treats when I have to medicate, catch in a smaller cage, or pull babies. To pull a baby, I have the cage door partially opened with one hand just inside. The other hand has the marshmallows at the side of the cage close to the door. Whomever doesn’t have a baby on his back gets a whole marshmal- low. For one with a baby on his back, I hold the marshmallow so he can only get small bites. While they are engrossed in their treats, I carefully get my fingers around the baby’s body and close to their shoulders. I have had problems with very protective parents, but patience and keeping everyone’s mouth full of marshmallows usually pays off. I have had a few that I’ve had to net in order to get the baby, but I only do this if nothing else works. Once the baby has been pulled, I put it on a small stuffed animal (fuzzy) and put it under my shirt with the baby between the fuzzy and my body. The baby gets its first feeding and is put back under my shirt for awhile. This helps put my scent on the baby and fuzzy. I noticed early on that babies that are put on a fuzzy, fed and then put under the heat lamp without first being under my shirt had a tendency to cry at length. Feeding A zoo veterinarian I know gave me the formula recipe for infant marmosets. People have used other formulas such as Similac®, etc., but I’ve had such good luck with this formula that I’ve stuck with it. the only change I’ve made is from liquid Premie Enfamil® to powdered Enfamil® low iron. Formula: 2 scoops (enclosed) powder to 3 oz. water add 3/4 tsp.. polycose powder .11 CO, vegetable oil 1/4 tsp. plain yogurt 442 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 10, The average amount consumed at each feeding is as follows: birth to 1 week week 2 week 3 week 4 weeks 5 to 8 weeks 9 to 12 after 12 weeks .4cc - 1 l/2cc 1 cc - 2 l/2cc 2cc - 3 l/2cc 3cc - 4 l/2cc 4cc - 6cc 4cc - 7cc 6cc - lOcc I do not force the baby to take more formula than it wants. When it has had enough, it lets me know. Feeding Schedule Age Day Night birth - 2 wks. every 2 hours every 2-3 hours 2-4 weeks every 2 hours every 4 hours 4-6 weeks every 3-4 hours every 4-5 hours 6-8 weeks every 4 hours every 5 hours 8 - 10 weeks every 5 hours every 5 hours 1- - 12 weeks every 6 hours every 6 hours after 12 weeks 1st feeding at OTOOhrs 2nd feeding (fruit) at 1200 hrs. 3rd feeding at 1700 hrs. 4th feeding at 2300 hrs. 4 weeks - 1 give the baby a hard plastic formula scoop for teething and play 6-8 weeks - 1 hang a small water bottle on the cage and give pieces of dry monkey chow for teething. 8 - 10 weeks - 1 offer bits of mashed banana, apple or boiled sweet potato from my finger and begin getting the baby used to drinking formula from a shallow bowl. Once the baby is actually eating the bits of fruit and not just tasting it and spitting it out, I increase the solid food slowly and then omit the 1200hrs. formula feeding. The feeding schedule varies depending on the baby. Some take to drinking formula from a bowl and eating solids much more quickly than others. They are weaned from formula between 3 - 4 months of age. There is sometimes problem with constipation/bloat around two weeks of age. I give the baby .05cc mineral oil at two feedings. If there is still a problem, I continue with the mineral oil and begin massaging the stomach and back. If the baby still doesn’t have a bowel movement, I give an enema using a Icc syringe with warm soapy water. I hold the syringe against the anus (not entering) and slowly administer .1 to .2cc warm soapy water. This normally takes care of the problem. Many people use incubators. I am more comfortable using a heat lamp with a 250-watt bulb. A 2ft. H X 2ft. W x 3ft. D (.61m x .61m x.91m) cage is positioned below the heat lamp with the floor of the cage 3ft. below the lamp. On top of that cage is an 8in. H x 8in. W X 9in. D (20.3cm x 20.3cm x 22.9cm) cage that the babies are in from the time they are pulled until they are 3-4 weeks old. After that they are transferred to the larger cage. The smaller cage is not positioned directly under the lamp, but off to one side so that half the cage is 86-88°F (30-31°C) and the other half is 80°F (26.7°C). In the larger cage Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 10, 2000 443 the temperature at the center is 84°F (28.9°C), while at the corners it’s 74°F (23.3°C). The cages are stainless steel wire with some sort of soft material covering the bottom wire of the cage. About the fuzzy - it gets soiled. I put a clean fuzzy in the cage next to the soiled fuzzy. The second day I transfer the baby to the clean one during feedings. On the third day I remove the soiled fuzzy for washing. Babies get agitated if the soiled fuzzy is immediately removed and they are left with some strange smelling thing that is not familiar. Re-introduction When the baby is totally weaned, its cage is moved to the building where we house the marmosets. (I do not change out the fuzzy from the time the baby is moved until it’s settled in with its new family). I give the baby a few weeks to get used to being in the building with the other marmosets, during which time I decide upon a breeding pair for the re-introduction. I do not use family groups because the offspring from the group tend to be a little rough with the baby. After the “settling in” period, I position the baby’s cage close to but not touching the pair’s cage. I judge how the pair react to the baby for one week. If all is going well, I move the cage closer so they can touch and smell through the wire. I leave them side by side for one week. I then put the fuzzy with the baby on it in the pair’s cage for 15 minutes, doing this for several days and watching each time to ensure there are no signs of aggression. I then increase the time of supervised visits to 30 minutes for several days. If there is no negative behavior during the short supervised visits, I leave the baby with the pair while I clean cages, etc., sta3dng alert for any signs of a problem. (If there is repeated negative behavior, I start over with another pair). I then leave the baby with the pair all day for several days, returning it to its own cage late afternoon. When I start to leave the baby with the pair at night, I put the fuzzy in the nestbox so the baby will sleep with the pair, checking to make sure all is going well, off and on till around 2300 hrs. and again in the morning starting around 0530-0600 hrs. After one week I remove the fuzzy. Re-Introduction Log Meg DOB 7/16/97 One of triplets. One baby died shortly after birth. Second baby found dead next AM. Pulled Meg. Introduced to Emmy and Lou: Emmy two years old. Very protective as the older sister. Carried her younger siblings more than the father did. Puffed up and challenged us if we stood too close to the cage. Lou three years old. Fathered one baby (with a different female) which died shortly after birth. 11/18/97 Meg’s first visit to cage with E&L. Meg climbed all around cage, not sure of adults. Adults very interested in her, followed her around, sniffed and watched her. Meg would sniff them then try to move away. Returned to own cage after 15 minutes. 11/19/97 Same as day before. Emmy puffed up at pair in next cage when Meg was on that side of their cage. Lou stayed close to Meg. When she’d reach out to smell him it seemed as if he was trying to get her to climb on him. Removed Meg. 11/20/97 Same 11/21/97 Meg and fuzzy stayed with E&L all day. Same behaviors as before. Removed Meg that evening. 11/22/97 All day again and left her there overnight. Put fuzzy at back of nestbox. Meg slept on fuzzy. E&L slept in front of nestbox. 11/23/97 All seem to be getting along very well. Emmy somewhat protective when I touch Meg. Lou very taken with her. Fuzzy has been pushed to front of nestbox. E&L 444 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 27, No. 10, 2000 slept in back behind fuzzy. Meg slept at the side of the fuzzy, but snuggled up to and possibly partly on the adults. 11/24/97 Meg very playful with E&L, jumping on them as if to attack, biting their tails, Emmy held her down, biting face and arms - no marks on Meg. Fuzzy on the floor of cage in the evening, but Meg in nestbox with E&L. Leave fuzzy in for a few more days then remove it. 11/26/97 Removed fuzzy. 5/16/98 E&L had twins. Meg hasn’t seemed too interested in the babies. 5/23/98 Meg had the twins with her this PM. First time I’ve seen them on her. Good babysitter - protective. 7/3/98 Emmy beat up on Meg - bite wounds on face and neck. Pulled Meg out. 7/7/98 Paired Meg with experienced two-year-old male. 12/10/98 Meg pregnant and due soon. Male very attentive and doesn’t leave her side. 12/19/98 Twins - both cleaned up. Male had one, Meg had the other. Two hours later the male had both babies - Meg seemed anxious, followed him around trying to check the babies, possibly to get them back. Three hours later, both on male. He and Meg very protective of twins when I get near cage. 5/23/99 Triplets. Male very protective of babies and aggressive toward me. Took care of all three babies for three weeks. (Was unable to pull third baby due to the male’s attitude.) One baby weakened and was in the nestbox. Used glove to keep parents off of me while I pulled the baby. It died two days later. 8/30/99 Removed first set of twins - put in separate cage close to adults. 10/14/99 Twins - same as before. Wonderful parents. Blossom DOB 6/25/97 One of triplets 11/24/97 Introduced to breeding pair. On each occasion female a little rough with her. 11/26/97 Blossom seemed anxious when in cage with this pair. 11/27/97 Introduced to a second pair. 12/1/97 They all seem to get along well. 6/98 Blossom went through birthing of twins. Good babysitter. Still overly friendly to me. 2/99 Blossom very good with young. A little less friendly to me. 3/99 Blossom paired with experienced two-year-old male. 6/99 Blossom very aggressive towards me. She gets along fine with the male. 9/99 Twins - both found dead, not cleaned up very well. Annie DOB 6/14/97 One of triplets. Parents ignored her. 11/97 Introduced to breeding pair 5/98 Have observed playing and grooming between Annie and the adults. 6/98 Annie went through birthing of one. Baby had small wounds around eyes and mouth. Pulled baby - died. 5/99 Annie went through birthing of twins - pulled both. All three ignored babies. Both babies died within four days. 7/99 Removed Annie due to aggression on her part towards female. Pair with Ian? Miller DOB 6/14/97 One of triplets - parents ignored 7/98 Introduced to breeding pair at 13 months of age. All got along well but elements of closeness seemed to be missing. Possibly at being introduced at a later age. 3/99 Miller went through birthing of triplets, all babies found dead on floor of cage. 5/99 Miller being intimidated by pair. Removed from cage. 6/99 Paired Miller with experienced 14-month-old female. Ian DOB 6/12/97 One of triplets 6/98 Introduced to breeding pair at one year of age. Got along well. Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 10, 2000 445 6/99 Ian went through birthing of triplets. Good babysitter. 7/99 Moved to separate cage. Have tried to pair Ian three different times with three different females. Ian dominant/females intimidated. Will try very dominant female. Possibly Annie. Female HR94A DOB 4/6/99 Mother unable to care for baby after birth. 8/99 Introduced to older sister and her mate. They took right to each other. Wonder if older sister recognized her as a relation? Male HR87A DOB 8/8/98 One of triplets 6/99 Paired with experienced two-year-old female. (No introduction to breeding pair). They get along well, but female intimidates him at times. Keep an eye on them. Male HR86A DOB 8/8/98 One of triplets - parents ignored 6/99 Paired with experienced 13-month-old female. (No introduction to breeding pair). They get along well. Some re-introductions go smoothly and can be done in a shorter time period while others require more visits before being able to leave the baby with the adults. If any adult’s behavior is questionable, I do not risk leaving the baby in the cage. I find another pair and try again. With Males HR86A and HR87A, I’ll see if they take care of young without having gone through the birthing process. Acknowledgments I hope the following people don’t mind, but I would like to thank them for their help and patience in answering my many questions. I truly appreciate the time they took with me: Dr. Neal Clapp, retired from the University of Tennessee at Oakridge; Dr. Sean Barrett at The Nashville Zoo in Tennessee; Dr. Christine O’Rourke at the University of Wisconsin; and Dr. Robert Cooper, formerly at the University of Miami in Florida. MEXICO MOVES TO PROTECT MOMARCHS Responding to a new study that showsthe “fragile monarch butterfly is facing the rapid destruction of its winter habitat” Mexico has proposed to triple the size of its protected reserve. Reuters News Service reported in mid-September that according to the study, 44% of the butterfly’s “original forest” habitat, including protected areas, has been destroyed since 1971. The proposal would expand the reserve from 62 to 216 sq. miles, ban logging in core areas and restrict it in surrounding buffer zones while providing economic compensation to communities for lost logging revenues. —GREENlines Issue #1216 9115100 446 Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 21, No. 10, 2000 LegisCdtvve ^j)ddte Compiled hy Georgann Johnston Legislative Advisor Sacramento, CA Feds Claim Wolf Reintroduction a Success (But Not In Colorado) It has been over four years since the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) first released a group of captive-bred gray wolves into their new home in Yellowstone National Park. At that time, it was hoped that the animals would multiply - eventually producing a population of 30 breeding pairs. Now, the USFWS claims that the 30-pair goal has been reached and that this number of animals is sufficient to ensure the wolf’s continued survival in an area including Yellowstone, Idaho, Washington, Montana and down to New Mexico. In essence, the USFWS is claiming that the Endangered Species Act, which classified the wolves as endangered and facilitated a captive breeding program, has been a complete success with this species. USFWS officials and some federal wolf biologists claim that they will propose removing the gray wolf from the Endangered Species List by 2004. One of the major stumbling blocks to this program is the refusal of Colorado authorities to cooperate in a proposal for wolf reintroduction within its geographic boundaries. For example, the Colorado Division of Wildlife opposes both wolf and grizzly bear reintroduction. Likewise, spokeswoman Linda Clausan for the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association stated: “Obviously we have some very serious concerns about wolves. I’m sure our members would just as soon keep the wolves out of their backyards.” This position is countered by Mike Phillips, a former federal biologist involved in the initial wolf reintroduction programs who is now the executive director of the Turner Foundation’s endangered species program. Phillips says the failure of the USFWS to pursue reintroduction of the wolf into the southern Rockies “unacceptable”. Source: Denver Post Newspaper, 15 August 2000 West Nile Virus Concern Grows Among Federal, State and Local Officials The West Nile Virus became newsworthy in the United States just over a year ago when an outbreak in New York resulted in the deaths of seven people. The disease is carried primarily by birds. When the birds are bitten by mosquitoes, the virus can then be transmitted to humans when they are bitten by a carrier insect. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control, the New York Public Health Department, and a number of other state and local government agencies have been tracking the disease in the United States for the past 12 months. So far, it appears that crows are the primary carriers of the disease, though over 40 different bird species have been diagnosed as suffering from the virus over time and in different countries around the world. In all cases. West Nile is often fatal to the birds as well as any mammal bitten by mosquitoes that have also bitten infected birds. The U.S. National Wildlife Health Center (NWHC) scientists are using their skills to track the virus in birds to predict when and where (geographically) it might strike humans. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 10, 2000 447 Before 1999, the West Nile virus was found primarily in Europe, Russia and Africa. When it first appeared in New York it was misidentified as a new form of encephalitis but the NWHC researchers proved this theory to be wrong, since the encephalitis virus does not kill birds. Various people have called for the eradication of crow populations along the Eastern seaboard to prevent a full scale epidemic of the disease. However, with the relatively low mortality rate and even lower morbidity rate (people infected but cured) to date, the CDC and the NWHC have found no scientific or medical justification for such drastic measures. Additionally, now that the virus has been identified, health care providers have been made more aware of the symptoms of the disease and have been able to provide appropriate care to human victims, decreasing the total number of deaths this year to just five nationwide. Source: Duluth News Tribune, 5 September 2000 South Africa May Auction “Killing Rights” to its Oldest White Rhino The Eastern Cape Nature Conservation Department of South Africa (ECNCD) has proposed an auction off a hunting permit for a 35-year-old white rhino that lives in the Thomas Baines Game Reserve. The rhino, affectionately called Tom by many conservationists in the area, is reputed to have the longest horn in Africa, if not in the world. The ECNCD justifies the plan for the auction by saying that the right to shoot Tom would bring in approximately R200,000 (the equivalent of $30,000 U.S.). The directors in charge of operating the Baines preserve admit that it is in serious financial trouble, is practically bankrupt, and that any income the reserve brings in must be split with other ECNCD projects. Critics of the plan object to the idea both from a conservation standpoint - Tom may be old but he fathered a baby rhino born 22 August 2000 - but from a financial one. There are no guaranties that the funds received from the auction would go back into nature conservation, let alone back into the maintenance and upkeep of the Baines preserve. This same idea was broached by the ECNCD about two years ago and the public outcry against it made the directors table the idea. Now, the ECNDC Finance Department has placed an advertisement in a number of South African newspapers, notifying “all stakeholders and members of the public” of the intention to auction Tom. Further updates on this proposal can be obtained by visiting the web site of the Wildlife Action Group at www.wag.co.za/actions/tom_alert.html Source: South African Herald Newspaper and Grahams Town’s Grocott’s Mail Newspaper 18 August 2000; Wildlife Action Group Web Site 6 September 2000 Bears, Dogs and Whales, Oh My... The governments of China, Japan, and Korea have recently taken action to the benefit and detriment of a number of animal species of interest to zookeepers and the following is an amalgamation of those events. China: The China Wildlife Conservation Association, the Sichuan Forestry Department and the Animal Asia Foundation issued a joint announcement on 23 July 2000 stating that 500 Asiatic black bears will be retired from the Sichuan bear bile farms. There are approximately 500 such farms operating in this Chinese province, where the bears are bred for the harvesting of the bile produced by their gallbladders. Each farm rears an average of 28 bears at a time. The bears have a short life expectancy on the farms 448 Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 10, 2000 (compared to their life in the wild), due primarily to unhygienic housing conditions and infections resulting from poor care of the wound sites used to extract the bile from the gallbladder. Additionally, many bears are killed for their claws, pelt, meat or bones - all of which are used in Chinese medicine. The agreement to “retire” 500 bears to a sanctuary is a step towards phasing out the bile industry altogether. The price of bile has dropped over 90% in the last 10 years, due to the advent of synthetic bear bile and greater awareness of the inhumane methods of harvest. Additionally, “bootleg” bile illegally imported from North Korea may have an influence on the price that native Chinese bear bile will bring on the open market. Japan: The four-ship Japanese whaling “fleet” sailed on 29 June 2000 with the intent of killing 50 minke whales, 50 Brydes whales, and 10 sperm whales in the North Pacific Ocean. The whaling effort is being done under the guise of official government “research”. However, the International Whaling Commission (IWC) and Japanese governmental officials acknowledge that the whales’ meat will be sold. Environmental sources also report that Japan plans to kill an additional 300 minke whales in southern waters - again for research and meat sales. The whaling efforts are in direct contradiction of a nonbinding resolution opposing so- called “research whaling” ratified earlier this year at the 52'^'* Annual Meeting of the IWC. A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Commerce stated that: “This is a really aggressive move by Japan.” Likewise, P.J. Cowley, a spokesperson for the White House, stated that: “We have at the highest levels expressed our opposition to the expanded Japanese whaling program. We are disappointed that the Japanese are moving ahead with it.” Cowley further stated that the President was considering the imposition of trade sanctions against Japan in retaliation for the whaling activities. Korea: Dog and cat meat is a staple in the diet of many Korean citizens and to date, any opposition to the practice has been characterized by Koreans as a manifestation of western ethnic intolerance. This argument worked in the past, but there is now a fast-growing Korean animal protection movement at the forefront of changing this age-old practice. The lead organization in this area is the Korean Companion Animal Network (CAN)- ironically headquartered in New York City. Over the past year or so, CAN has sponsored a number of demonstrations at the United Nations Plaza, but on 9 July staged a large demonstration in downtown Seoul, South Korea. CAN and similar organizations are asking the Korean government to take action by (1) improving conditions under which dogs and cats are bred for the meat industry; (2) regulation of the means of slaughter to make it more humane, and (3) to promote an official government policy that “dogs are pets, not food”. So far, CAN and its counterparts has found little help from the government other than a report from a foreign ministry spokesperson stating that a new national anti-cruelty law is being drafted which would forbid killing either dogs or cats for meat, fur or leather. Source: Animal People: News for People Who Care About Animals, September 2000, vol. IX, #7 South Africa Donating Elephants to Angola The North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB) in South Africa is donating approximately 30 elephants to Angola. The Kissama Foundation, mandated by the Angolan government to rehabilitate the country’s national parks, was scheduled to take delivery of the animals in late September 2000. The elephants come from two family groups that reside in the Madikwe Game Reserve. The plan is to relocated them to the Quicama National Park in Angola. This resettlement program (named Operation Noah’s Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 10, 2000 449 Ark) is the first phase of a larger plan involving a number of different species. The decision to “donate” the elephants from South Africa came after consultation with bodies such as CITES, the lUCN, and the Elephant Manager and Owners Association. Angola’s economy is precarious after 25 years of civil unrest and the NWPTB and other conservation organizations see this as a way of supporting economic redevelopment in Angola. In other words, a rejuvenation of the economy through conservation-based tourism The elephants’ new home is approximately 20,000 hectare (77 sq. mi.) surrounded by an electric fence and trained game guards. The animals will be monitored 24 hours a day by a research team consisting of biologists and radio tracking specialists. R2 million (about $280,000 U.S.) has been set aside by the South African government to fund the program. Over the next five years the NWPTB plans on relocating other species to Angolan parks and reserves but nothing is scheduled at this time. Officials from NWPTB, the Angolan government, and groups such as CITES want to wait to see how well this program works before placing any more animals at risk in a country still besieged by civil unrest, guerrilla warfare, and a depressed economy such that people may be tempted to eat the animals rather than put them on display for conservation. Source: WildNet Africa Media Release Service, 4 September 2000 25 Years Later Grizzly Bear Recovery Still Slow Twenty-five years after ESA listing stopped the grizzly’s slide toward extinction, the bears are slowly recovering despite increasing threats from human-caused mortality as well as habitat loss and fragmentation says the Sierra Club Grizzly Bear Ecosystems Project 7/28. Although grizzly populations in MT, WY, ID, and WA have stabilized at about 1,000, 1% of their historic numbers on less that 2% of their historic range, threats such as sprawl, logging, mining, oil and gas development, off-road vehicles, and accidental hunting deaths are “accelerating at unprecedented levels.” Further, despite the intensifying threats, the federal government is taking steps to remove ESA protections from one of their primary populations, the Yellowstone grizzlies. For more information see http://www.sierraclub.org/grizzlv Source: GREENlines Issue #1183 7131/2000 Bushmeat Trade Wiping Out Primates According to an Associated Press report, conservationists are warning that “commercial poachers toting automatic weapons” could “exterminate manyof the world’s 618 primate species including all the great apes from equatorial jungles in 10 years”. In central Africa, the primates may be gone in five years in a slaughter that is compared to that of the American bison in the 19th century. Hunters are estimated to kill “One million metric tons of game” for the bushmeat trade every year, and have reduced chimpanzee populations by 95%, several sub-species of gorillas to a few hundred, and in Borneo and Sumatra orangutans to “fewer than 20,000.” GREENlines Issue #1187 8-7-2000* 450 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. JO, Under Southern Seas The ecology of Australia’s rocky reefs Edited by Neil Andrews Krieger Publishing Company and the University of New South Wales RO. Box 9542, Melbourne, FL 32902 USA Original Edition 2000. Cloth 256 pp. $49.50 ISBN 1-57524-141-2 Reviewed by Bruce L. Elkins, Curator of Waters Indianapolis Zoo, Indianapolis, IN Under Southern Seas is presented as an introduction to the little studied and less reviewed coastlines of Southern Australia. When I first picked the book up, I felt I was reviewing one more work of the Great Barrier Reef of Australia. I was delighted to find an exploration of the temperate oceans rather than the tropical. Under Southern Seas is divided into two sections. The first several chapters deliver a macro-view of the various habitats of each of the southern Australia states. Each chapter describes the coastline, prevalent currents, biodiversity, defining organisms, and human interaction. Chapters frequently have inserts that spot light a special item in the habitat. The second part of the book explores in greater depth the organisms that define the various habitats and their interrelationships, the physical environment, and man. The addition of the sections on the fishing industries was a nice touch and handled well by the various authors. The industry was not portrayed as a villain as often occurs, but rather simply as one of the influences in the region. I found this book to be a very interesting read. With all the attention focused on coral reefs these days, it was refreshing to be reminded there are other habitats in the oceans. It does not try to detail any one habitat, and is not to be used as an identification reference. It is a thorough introduction and overview of the rocky shores of South Australia. I was most involved with the chapters on jellies (contributed by Kylie Pitt and Micheal Kingsford) and the one on octopus (contributed by Mark Norman). Pictures are abundant and in such detail that you might think the book was meant for a coffee table, but a quick scan of the text shows it to be serious reading. The maps needed more detail and would have been more useful with habitat regions marked. Overall, I would recommend Under Southern Seas to professionals and anyone with more than a passing interest in aquatic ecology. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 27, No. 10, 2000 451 li^'v-'Behtviofal Enrichment ^TT ^^^\'S^TdC^ 4y MxnipuJiilon J1 w By Gretchen Ziegler, Sequoia Park Zoo ^ ^ y and Jan Roletto, Utah's Hogle Zoo Scavenging Vultures The Milwaukee County Zoo in Milwaukee, WI has a unique approach to displaying natural feeding of vultures. A suggestion was made to use a large skeleton in the outdoor African Savanna yard as a feeding platform for vultures. The mixed species yard includes Impala, Thomson’s gazelle, African ground hornbill, Helmeted guinea fowl, European white stork, African spur-thighed tortoise, Ruppell’s griffon vulture. Cinereous vulture, and Lappet- faced vulture. Vultures feeding in the outdoor African Savanna exhibit at the Milwaukee County Zoo. (Photo by Cindi Spanholz) 452 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 10 , 2000 In 1983, a Southern white rhinoceros died at the zoo. The carcass was sent to the Milwaukee Public Museum. In 1999, the museum deaccessioned the skeleton and offered it back to the zoo. By placing the skeleton in the African Savanna yard, it serves as an educational tool to inform the public of the rapidly decreasing rate of the rhino population and as an enrichment device for the animals in the yard. At feeding time, dead rats and oxtails are thrown in or around the rhino skeleton. The vultures flock to the skeleton and fight for the food, even though there is plenty to go around. Some spread their wings and chase after ones trying to steal their food, while others patiently wait their turn. I saw one cautiously approach another vulture that was gnawing on an oxtail and every now and then would take a bite. If the first vulture didn’t protest, the two ate off the same bone. Even after the food had been out for awhile, the vultures continued to investigate the skeleton and peck at the rhino’s bones. In fact, they were still eating their meal longer than an hour after they had been fed. In addition to the feedings, the vultures disarticulate the skeleton and carry the bones around the yard. Although some bones of the skeleton need to be repositioned occasionally, it is a small price to pay to enrich the life of an animal. The vultures are fed a diet similar to what they might find in the wild and are fed in a naturalistic environment, which elicits their natural behaviors. -■-Cindi Sponholz, Enrichment Intern Milwaukee County Zoo, Milwaukee, WI (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 materials for the Enrichment Options Column. This might include recipes, toys, puzzle feeders, olfactory enrichment ideas, etc. Drawings and photos of enrichment are encouraged. Send to: AKF ! Enrichment, 3601 SW 29th St., Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614-2054. Eds.) West Af rican CoIuId us Declared Extinct In what biologists see as “just the beginning” of a “growing stream of extinctions of West African primates and other wildlife,” the N.Y. Times has reported that experts have declared Miss Waldron’s red colobus monkey extinct. Inciting the usual suspects, logging, road building, and the bush-meat trade, scientists warned that “unless more rigorous protection is applied immediately” the red colobus will be just “the first obvious manifestation of an extinction spasm.” Last seen in the 1970s, an exhaustive seven- year search of remaining forest fragments where the monkey once lived turned up only a “deserted cathedral” littered with “snares and shotgun shells.” According to Peter Grubb of the Natural History Museum in London, “with better management of game preserves in Ghana and the Ivory Coast, the monkey could probably have been saved.” -GREENlines Issue ^1214 911312000 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 10 , 2(900 453 Institutions wishing to advertise employment opportunities are asked to send pertinent data by the 10th of each month to: Opportunity Knocks! AKF, 3601 SW 29th St., Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614-2054. Please include closing date for positions available, and when setting these dates keep in mind that because of bulk-mail, most readers do not receive the AKF until the middle of the month or later: There is no charge for this service and fax ore-mail listings of positions which become available close to deadline are accepted. Our fax is (785) 273-1980; e-mail is akfeditor@kscable.com< We are no longer located at the Topeka Zoo, so please note new address! ANIMAL responsible for the daily husbandry of a native North American collection, record keeping, operant conditioning, enrichment, and exhibit maintenance in a recently accredited facility located in the 1000 Islands/Adirondack region of northern New York. Requires a minimum of an AS degree in a relevant field and one year’s paid zoo experience, preferably in an AZA-accredited institution. Previous experience in handling venomous reptiles and raptors is highly desirable. Will participate in educational programming, keeper presentations, and assist in expansion planning of recently acquired 18 acres in a rapidly growing professional organization. The ideal candidate for this entry-level position is a motivated self-starter with excellent communiation skills willing to join a dynamic team. Salary starts at $14,500 with a competitive benefits package including professional development. Please submit letter of interest and resume by 15 October, 2000 to: Susan Sabik, Animal Curator, Thompson Park Conservancy and Zoo, 1 Thompson Park, Watertown, NY 13601. Fax: (315) 782- 6192; email: smew_99@yahoo.com MAMMAL KEEPER. . . Riverbanks Zoo is looking for an enthusiastic, self-starter who will be responsible for the care of a variety of mammals in a progressive zoo setting. Requires Associate’s degree in biology/zoology/wildlife management, one year’s experience working with animals, or equivalent combination of training/experience which provides the required skills. Will feed, provide water for, medicate animals and prepare records/ reports. Interaction with visitors during scheduled programs and participation in operant conditioning programs is required. Send resume to Riverbanks Zoo, Attn: Human Resources Department, PO Box 1060, Columbia, SC 29202-1060, Fax: 803-253-6381; e- mail: dehbieb@riverbanks.org. CHILDREN'S ZOO KEEPER. . . immediate opening. High school diploma required, 1 year experience and college degree preferred. Applicant will be responsible for the daily husbandry, care, feeding, observation and record keeping for an assortment of domestic animals in the petting area, and/or small birds, mammals, reptiles, and invertebrates in j the education animal building. Applicant must have good public relations skills, and ‘ work well in a team environment. Must be willing to work weekends, some holidays, ‘ and overtime as required. Drug test required. Full benefits. Salary dependent on experience. Please send/fax/email cover letter and resume to: Marcelle Guidry, Assistant Curator of Children’s Zoo, Audubon Zoological Park, 6500 Magazine St., New Orleans, j La., 70118. Fax-504-212-5471. Email mammals@auduboninstitute,org. Phone 504- 212-5190. ! CHIMPANZEE CAREGIVER... one full-time position open. Requires two (2) years of j college level course work, two (2) years experience in the care of exotic animals; OR an equivalent combination of experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and ability. Primate experience a plus. The position does require heavy lifting, an applicant j must be able to lift and carry objects weighing up to 60 lbs. Caregivers assist in the responsibility of caring for approximately 76 chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes). Must be . willing to make at least a two-year commitment. Excellent benefits. E.O.E. Applicant must have a negative TB skin test, and evidence of a measles booster or natural disease prior to employment. Send letter of interest (with requested salary), resume and three 454 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 10, 2000 (3) letters of reference to: Jim Murphy, Colony Manager, Primate Foundation of Arizona, P. O. Box 20027, Mesa, AZ 85277-0027. Position open until filled. Out of Africa Wildlife Park in Phoenix, AZ is seeking qualified applicants for the following two positions. Applicants should be willing to work weekends and holidays. Salary based on prior experience and education. Send resume and salary requirements to: Jamie Hein, P. O. Box 17928, Fountain Hills, AZ 85269; fax to (480) 837-7379 or e-mail to: gilrovhuck@att.net< Positions open until filled. CARETAKERIHERPETOLOGY. . .requires wide knowledge of various reptiles. Position requires venomous snake husbandry, daily observation, care and feeding of all types of reptiles. Must have strong public speaking skills and willing to work as a team member. Minimum three (3) years experience required as well as previous venomous snake experience. Position also involves cross training of other creatures in the department including bears, wolves and birds. CARETAKERIH OOFSTOCK. . .requires wide knowledge of hoofstock including zebra and giraffe. Position requires daily husbandry, care, feeding and observation of various hoofstock and unrelated creatures. Three (3) years experience required, must have strong public speaking skills and willing to work as a team member. Position also includes cross training of other creatures in the department including reptiles, birds, bears, wolves, etc. ANIMAL KEEPER INTERN.. .two full-time temporary positions available immediately. Requires a college degree in the sciences or animal-related field. The Mini-Zoo is a small, indoor, education-oriented zoo with a collection of 30 species of fish, invertebrates, amphibians, mammals, birds, reptiles and small primates. Duties include cleaning, feeding, food preparation, animal handling, assisting in minor veterinary procedures, supply inventory, and supervision and training of other interns. Previous animal or supervisory experience is a valued advantage. Interns must work 35 hours per week, with one weekend day and some holidays required. Positions end in August 2001. No benefits are available and the hourly rate of pay is negotiable. Position open until filled. Send resume with references to: Kristen Schmid, Newark Museum Mini-Zoo, 49 Washington St, Newark, NJ 07101. The following four (4) positions are available at the San Diego Zoo. For any of the positions submit resume bv 27 October 2000 to: San Diego Zoo/Human Resources Office/Otto Center, P.O. Box 120551, San Diego, CA92112-0511. AA/ EOF. Visit the website at www.sandiegozoo.org< BE SURE to include the Position # assigned for each individual listing when applying. TEAM AREA LEAD (Union Position)... requires substantial experience working and caring for exotic mammal species in a zoo setting or park setting. An example of experience would be at least five (5) years. Experience working and managing exotic hoofstock is highly desirable (deer, antelope, gazelle, cattle and equus). The Team Area Lead will work in a multi-disciplinary workforce and will help with mammal restraint and handling, trailer and crate transport, husbandry programs, daily maintenance, animal enrichment programs, behavior modification, exhibit design renovation and development of husbandry master plans. Proven leadership ability, teamwork, organizational and communication skills required. The Team Area Lead will also be responsible for and participate in staff selection, supervision, time and attendance, adherence to Animal Welfare Act requirements and development in a team environment. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 10, 2000 455 Applicants must be able to work any of the seven days of the week, willing and able to adapt to dynamic collection management. Degree in Biology/Animal Science or related field desired. This position will be assigned to the Hoof and Horn Mesa. This is a regular with benefits position; pay rate is $16. 84/hr. When applying for this position reference Mammals#163009. KEEPER (2 Union Positions) ...these positions are responsible for all facets of animal care for a diversified mammal collection. Selected employee must be willing and able to adapt to dynamic collection management in response to species needs as well as aggressive facility, construction plans. Includes care/observation of animals, cleaning/maintenance of exhibits, training/enrichment, and record maintenance. Degree in Biology/Animal Science or related field desired. Applicants must be available any of the seven days of the week. These are regular with benefits positions; pay rate is $14. 60/hr. Reference Position #163002A hoofstock background is preferred. Reference Position #1632002B primates and operant conditioning background is preferred. ITURI FOREST KEEPER (Union responsible for all facets of animal care for a diversified mammal collection. Selected employee must be willing and able to adapt to dynamic collection management in response to species needs as well as aggressive facility, construction plans. Includes care/observation of animals, cleaning/maintenance of exhibits, training/enrichment. This position will be part of a self-directed work team. A degree in Biology/Animal Science or related field desired. Background with primates/ hoofstock and operant conditioning preferred. Applicants must able available to work any of the seven days of the week, 40 hours per week. This is a regular with benefits position; pay rate is $14. 60/hr. Reference Keeper#163602 when applying for this position. The following two (2) positions are available at the Memphis Zoo. Positions begin January 2001. Application deadline is 31 October 2000. The Memphis zoo offers a competitive salary and benefits package. Applications may be submitted to the Zoo or mailed to Human Resources, memphis Zoo, 2000 Galloway, memphis, TN 38112. Cover lewtters, resumes and references may be attached. Walk-in interviews, phone calls and email are not accepted. EOE. ASSOCIATE KEEPER(Mammals)... responsibilities include providing a healthy, attractive environment for various animals, all aspects of daily animal husbandry, exhibit maintenance, observation, enrichment, extensive interaction and encouragement of public interest in the animals. Requires a minimum of six (6) months of experience working in the field of exotic or domestic animal care combined with college level coursework in biology, zoology, or a related field (or the equivalent combination of education and experience). Prefer degreed candidate. Domestic animal experience a plus. Must have excellent communication skills and a willingness to interact positively with our guests. ASSOCIATE KEEPER (Reptiles) responsibilities include providing a healthy, attractive environment for the reptiles and amphibians in a specified area, all aspects of daily animal husbandry, exhibit maintenance, observation, enrichment, extensive interaction and encouragement of public interest in the animals. Requires a minimum of six (6) months of experience working in the field of exotic animal care combined with college level coursework in biology, zoology, or a related field (or the equivalent combination of education and experience). Prefer degreed candidate with zoo animal experience. Must have excellent communication skills and a willingness to interact positively with our guests. Positions posted with AAZK, Inc. may also be found on our website at www.aazk.org 456 Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 10, 2000 check here if renewal [ ] AAZK Membership Application Name _ Address City State/Province Zip □ U.S. Members $35.00 Professional Full-time Keepers □ Canadian Members $35.00 Professional Full-time Keepers □ $30.00 Affiliate Other staff & volunteers □ $35.00 Affiliate Other staff & volunteers □ □ $30.00 Associate Those not connected with an animal facility $60.00 or up - Individuals Contributing/U.S. □ □ $35.00 Associate Those not connected with an animal facility $60 or up - Individuals Contributing/Canada □ □ $100.00 or up Institutional/U.S. Organizations /Institutions (requires Board approval) International Members $50.00 International All members outside US. & Canada regardless of category □ □ $100.00 or up Institutional/Canada Organizations /Institutions (requires Board approval) Library Only 35.00 Library Available only to public & university libraries Zoo Affiliation (if any) Zoo Address Title Work Area □ My check is enclosed (AAZK, Inc.) □ Please charge my credit card MASTERCARD Name on card _ VISA Card # -Expiration date Signature Mail this application to: AAZK Administrative Offices, 3601 S.W. 29th, Suite 133 Topeka, KS 66614. Make checks/money orders payable to AAZK, Inc. Must be in U. S. FUNDS ONLY. Membership includes a subscription to Animal Keepers ' Forum. The membership card is good for free admission to many zoos and aquariums in the US. and Canada. PRINTED IN U.S.A ©2000 AAZK, INC. animal IXeepcps I opum I25tli AnnivGPsapij 1974 - 1999 z: WE tf) u :« 5.5 O 5.= 3 ' - y. =f, C r+ 5- ‘ O §: 3* J-* tj. {-«' 5~’- 0 'S % n 3 5« i iB C &' r- rS* r?i r-^ ?! 0 3 5^- ,1* :2 0 N ESJ f. n u 3 t? 0 •i* n H- 1-' w s n * 3 % n c 5r» % O H* T‘ r<- t,n 55 j :« CN 3> 3 ‘ o < r % 1 0 r s O « 5^' 3 fji n cr w uH ^ a. 1 X 5^ ^ , 25 m 3 ^ H- r-» 59 2> a m IC H n « 1> 'V o> < 71 O' 5n 5^ r-'? h, O o GO GO ANIMAL KEEPERS’ FORUM. 3601 S.W. 29th St., Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614 ivOVFlVIRFR ^7000 Phone: 1-800-242-4519 (U.S.) 1-800-468-1966 (Canada) FAX (785) 273-1980 rNU VlLiV115L.K ZUUU Vol. 27, No. 11 Managing Editor: Susan D. Chan • Associate Editors/Enrichment Options Coordinators: Gretchen Ziegler, Sequoia Park Zoo & Jan Roletto, Utah’s Hogle Zoo • Legislative Outlook Colunui Coordinator: Georgann B. Johnston, Sacramento, CA. • ABC's Colunm Coordinator: Diana Guerrero, San Diego, CA • Reactions Column Coordinator: William K. Baker, Jr., Frank Buck Zoo, Gainesville, TX Animal Keepers’ Forum (ISSN 0164-9531) is a monthly journal of the American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. Ten dollars of each membership fee goes toward the annual publication costs of Animal Keepers’ Forum . Third Class postage paid at Topeka, KS. Postmaster - Please send address changes to: American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc., 3601 S.W. 29th Street, Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614 - attn: Barbara Manspeaker, Administrative Secretary AAZK Executive Director: Ed Hansen, AAZK, Inc., Topeka KS BOARD OF DIRECTORS Scott M. Wright, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland, OH 44109 President Jacque Blessington, Kansas City Zoological Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64132-4200 Vice President Diane Callaway, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo, Omaha, NE 68107-2200 Jan Reed-Smith, John Ball Zoological Garden, Grand Rapids, Ml 49504-6100 Kevin Shelton, The Florida Aquarium, Tampa, FL 33602 Linda King, Dallas Zoo, Dallas, TX 75203 Immediate Past President By-laws Chair - Gisela A. Wiggins, North Carolina Zoo Ethics Chair - Ric Urban, Prospect Park Wildlife Cntr. Research/Grants Chair - Jan Reed-Smith, John Ball Zoo : Bowling for Rhinos Chair - Patty Pearthree, Cary, NC Marketing Resources/Development David Luce - Oklahoma City Zoo j I ADTForms and EDTForms ; AAZK Administrative Offices/Topeka AAZK Historian Mark Levin, Philadelphia Zoo I Animal Behavior Management , Beth Stark, Toledo Zoo j International Outreach - Jeannette Beranger, Roger Williams Park Zoo (Chair/Coordinator International Assistance); i| Kathy Kelly, Silver Springs, MD - Project M.A.R.C. (Making A Realistic Contribution) ;| C.AZA.Lia.ison Oliver Claffey, Toronto Zoo Int'l Marine Mammals Trainers Association Dave' Force, Sea World of California AMAZOO Liaison Gilberto Gomez, Portland Zoo AZH Liaison Virginia Wall, North Carolina Zoo AAZK PUBLICATIONS - CONTINUING DATA COLLECTION Zoo Infant Development Project - Nell Bekiares, Cincinnati Zoo (Birds/Passerines) Biological Values for Selected Mammals. 3rd Edition - Jan Reed-Smith, John Ball Zoo PRESIDENTIAL ADVISORS/LIAISONS AZA Liaison Ed Hansen, AAZK Executive Director Elephant Managers Association Liaison Marie Galloway, National Zoo Zoo Registrars Association William K. Baker, Jr., Frank Buck Zoo AZAD Liaison Richard A. Cirelli, Bergenfield, NJ Bruce Elkins, Indianapolis Zoo, Indianapolis, IN 46222-0309 Ric Urban, Prospect Park Wildlife Center, Brooklyn, NY 11 225-! COMMITTEES Nominations& Elections Chair - Sheri Leavitt, Galveston, TX Conservation. Preservation & Restoration Grants Chair - Jan Reed-Smith, John Ball Zoo Annual Conferences Coordinator - Ed Hansen, AAZK, Inc. Conference Program Chair Jeffrey Phillips, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Awards Chair - Janet McCoy, The Oregon Zoo MEMBERSHIP SERVICES L.l.N.K. System Kevin Shelton, The Florida Aquarium (Board Oversight) Asst. L.l.N.K. Coordinator Wayne Hazlett, Milwaukee County Zoo Enrichment Committee Chair -Lee Houts, Folsom City Zoo of Contents About the Cover/Information for Contributors.. ........................................... ..458 About this Special Issue..... ............................................................................. 459 Scoops & Scuttlebutt..... ................................................................................ ..460 Coming Events..................................................................................... ......461 AAZK Welcomes New Members...................................................................... 462 Guidelines for Establishing Training and Conditioning Protocols for Captive Duikers.... .............................................. ..463 - 481 Chipahgali Wildlife Trust - Zimbabwe: Duiker and Mini-antelope Research Programme.................. .......482 - 484 Duiker Management at the Houston Zoo. ....485 - 490 Rumen Hypomotility CSloshing Syndrome”) in Small Duikers..... 491 - 492 Mixed Species Management Involving Cephalophinae.... .493 - 496 Duikers: A Primary Target for Africa’s Bushmeat Trade.......... 497 - 505 Vasectomy Reversal in a Yellow-backed Duiker. ....506 - 508 Operant Conditioning of Yellow-backed Duiker at the Dallas Zoo 509 - 512 Yellow-backed Duiker Husbandry at Disney’s Animal Kingdom 513 - 516 Fecal Scoring in Captive Duiker Antelope... 516 - 519 Husbandry Study of Six Captive Maxwell’s Duikers ..520 - 536 Status of Captive Duikers in North America 537 - 538 Duiker Conservation T-Shirt Information.... ........538 Opportunity Knocks................................................. .................539 - 540 S^bout the Cover. This month’ s cover features a Jentink’s duiker (Cephalophus jentinki) one of the largest and rarest duikers in Africa. This species of duiker is found in fragmented populations throughout Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Ivory Coast. There is an estimated wild population of 3,500 animals and the total captive population consists of only two related males that reside at the Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville, TX. Widespread forest destruction and hunting pressure for the bushmeat trade are the primary reasons for the decline of this species. Immediate studies are needed on this species’s ecology. The long-term survival of Jentink’s duiker depends on the future of the remaining blocks of primary forest in its home range. This month’s cover artist is Amy Burgess, a keeper at the Oakland Zoo, Oakland, CA. Thanks, Amy! Animal Keepers’ Forum publishes original papers and news items of interest to the animal keeping profession. Non-members are welcome to submit articles for consideration. Articles should be typed or hand-printed and double-spaced. Authors are encouraged to submit their manuscripts on a disk as well as in hard copy form. Acceptable formats include: for Macintosh users - Microsoft Word or Works; IBM users - Word for Windows, WordPerfect or Wordstar. All illustrations, graphs, charts and tables should be clearly marked, in final form and should fit in a page size no greater than 5.5” x 8.5” (14cm X 22cm). Literature used should be cited in the text (Brown, 1986) and alphabetically in the final bibliography. Avoid footnotes. Include scientific name (as per ISIS) the first time an animal name is used. Thereafter use common name. Use metric system for weights and measurements (standard equivalents may be noted in parenthesis). Use the continental dating system (day-month- year). Times should be listed as per the 24-hour clock (0800, 1630 hrs. etc.). Glossy black and white or color prints (minimum size 3” x 5” [8cm x 14cm] ) are accepted. Clearly marked captions should accompany photos. Please list photo credit on back of photo. 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 and FAX contributions of late- breaking news or last-minute insertions are accepted as space allows. However, long articles must be sent by U.S. mail. Phone 1-800-242-4519 (US); 1-800-468-1966 (Canada); FAX (785) 273-1980. 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. Reprints of material appearing in this journal may be ordered from the editor. Back issues are available for $3.00 each. A AZK Website Address: www.aazk.org Bulletin Board Access: type “aazk” in member name box; type “Elvis” in password box. BFR Website: http://www.bfr.aazk.org 458 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 Hello Everyone, 1 just wanted to briefly explain how this issue dedicated to duikers came to be and thank everyone responsible for its inception. It is hoped that this effort will raise an awareness of the status of duikers in the wild as well as educate zoological managers to advancements in duiker care and management in captivity. This issue should not only be used as a practical resource, but should also provide a foundation that lays out the progressive direction in which we need to move, and the objectives that still need to be achieved with this sub-family of antelope. The Wildlife Survival Center on St. Catherine’s Island, in collaboration with the St. Catherine’s Island Foundation, hosted a Husbandry, Nutrition and Health of Captive Duikers International Workshop back in March of 2000. Over the course of the three-day workshop, representative experts from three main branches of zoological management (husbandry, nutrition, and veterinary medicine) identified and prioritized the specific problems that need to be resolved for duikers to thrive in captivity. An action plan consisting of several short and long-term goals addressing these issues was developed and forwarded to the AZA Antelope Taxon Advisory Group. This issue 0^ Animal Keepers’ Forum devoted strictly to duikers was one of these short-term goals. This issue would not have been possible with out the efforts of several individuals. First, and foremost, I would like to thank Susan Chan for ali the hard work she has done and for making the issue possible. Kelly Spratt should be commended for assuming the huge responsibility of organizing and developing the Captive Duiker International Workshop. Also, the St. Catherine’s Island Foundation deserves recognition for hosting and funding the workshop. I would like to thank all of the participants who attended and contributed to the workshop. I would also like to thank all the individuals who took time out of their busy schedules to submit articles to this issue. Thanks everyone for all your time and effort! ! ! Joseph Robertia First row 1 to r: Kelly Spratt, Verity Bowman, Michelle Willette, Colleen Morrow, Beverly Roeder, Lisa Molloy. Second row: Jen Savage, Lisa Shipley, Amy Plowman, Ellen Dierenfeld, Pam Mueller, Chris Pfefferkom. third row: Lisa Fitzgerald, Chriss Miller, Linda Rohr, Joseph Robertia, Scott Citino. Fourth row: Mamie Lamm, Pat Thomas, Zach Smith, Richard Strobiaeus, Jeff Holland, Jeff Spratt and Terry Norton. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 459 Scoops & Scuttlebutt Chapter/Individual Donations Assist AAZK Programs The following are donations received by AAZK, Inc.: to assist with the International Outreach Program, Rocky Mountain AAZK Chapter (Denver, CO) $100.00 and the North Carolina AAZK Chapter (Asheboro, NC) $75.00; for the AAZK Endowment Fund - North Carolina AAZK Chapter $100.00; and AAZK Contributing Member Debra Burch (Miami, FL) $60.00 sent in honor of Deb’s birthday by her friends (General Operating Fund). The AAZK Board of Directors and the AO staff wish to thank these Chapters and individuals for their support of the Association’s programs and projects. Enrichment Committee Seeks Bibliography Resources The AAZK Enrichment Committee is compiling a comprehensive Bibliography for the AAZK Enrichment Notebook, 2nd Edition. Any members who have unusual and useful resources they would like to contribute (especially for hoofstock, birds, reptiles, fishes, and marine mammals) are asked to submit that information to: Marc Blanchard, Cherry Brook Zoo, RRl, Sandy Point Road, Saint John, NB E2L 3W2 Canada. The deadline for submission is 31 December 2000. Bat TAG Announces Small Grants Program The AZA Bat TAG would like to anounce a small grants program. Grants are available to zoo and aquarium staff who are engaged in scientific efforts related to bat management, conservation education, in-situ biological conservation, veterinary health, nutrition, zoological research and reproduction, especially projects involving threatened and endangered species. The application deadline is 1 January 2001, with awards of up to $500.00 being available in February 2001. Program application and guidelines are available from Steven M. Wing, AZA Bat TAG Co-Chair, Riverbanks Zoo, P.O. Box 1060, Columbus, OH 29202-1060 or e-mail at: stevew@riverbanks.org Bat TAG Slide Presentation Available The Bat TAG and Rodrigues fruit bat SSP have available a slide presentation about the Rodrigues Fruit Bat Conservation Project. Nineteen slides with notes and a narrative cover the recent biological history of Rodrigues, reasons for the bats’ decline, current in- situ research and education projects, the history of the captive population, and a DNA fingerprinting study of captive bats. The slide presentation may be borrowed for up to two weeks. There are a limited number of copies available at this time so please make your reservations as early as possible. These programs are also available for purchase for $50.00. Please contact Pete Riger for more information at: Nashville Zoo Breeding and Quarantine, 1710 Ridge Circle, Joelton, TN 37080; Ph. (615)746-2526; Fax (615) 746-3906 or e-mail PRiger@email.msn.com< Editor^s Note on Special Issue Because this greatly expanded issue of AKF is one dedicated to Duiker Management, some of our regular columns will not appear this month. These include: ABC’s, Reactions, Legislative Update, Enrichment Options and Chapter News Notes. They will return in December. Special thanks to Joseph Robertia, St. Catherine’s Island Wildlife Survival Center, Midway, GA for all of his invaluable assistance in gathering material for this special issue. Thanks also to all of the authors who contributed manuscripts. We hope you enjoy this dedicated issue oi Animal Keepers’ Forum. 460 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 Comirtg Events Carinivores 2000 - A Conference on Predator Biology and Conservation in the 21st Century - 12-15 November 2000. Hosted by the Defenders of Wildlife at the Omni Interlocken Resort Hotel in Denver, CO. For further information, eontact: Carnivore 2000, Defenders of Wildlife, 1101 14th St., NW., Ste. 1400, Washington, DC 20005 or eall (202) 789-2844 ext. 315 or e-mail nfaseione® defenders. org< 9th SEAZA Conference - South Eastern Zoo Association - 7-10 January 2001 in lliolo. The Philippines. For further information contact: e-mail: zpo@mozart.inet.co.th VIII International Otter Colloquium - 20-26 January 2001 in Valdivia, Chile. The lUCN/SSC Otter Specialist Group and Universidad Austral de Chile announce a meeting of the lUCN/SSC Otter Specialist Group and VIII nternational Otter Colloquium. For more information contact: Dr. Gonzalo Medina Vogel Instituto de Ecologia y Evolucion Universidad Austral de Chile Casilla 567, Valdivia, Chile. Phone: -t-56/63 293061 (office); Fax: +56/637221344; Cell:+56/ 09/468893 ;Email: gmedina@valdivia.uca.uach.cl Or visit the Website @ www.ottercolloquium.cl Ecology and Conservation of Mini-Antelope - 12-17 February 2001 in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. An international symposium on duiker and dwarf antelope in Africa. Hosted by the Marwell Zimbabwe Trust. For further information contact: aplowman @ paigntonzoo.org.uk Second European Zoo Nutrition Conference - 6- 9 April 2001in Southampton, UK. More detailed information about the program and registration/abstract submission deadlines is available at http://www.marwell.org.uk To join the conference mailing list, send your contact details by email to:Nutrition2001 @ marwell.org or by post/fax to: Zoo Nutrition 2001, Marwell Zoological Park, Owslebury, Winchester, Hampshire, S021 IJH, United Kingdom. Fax: (0) 1962 777511. The Animal Behavior Society’s 13th Annual Meeting - 14-18 July 2001 at Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR. Plenary speakers include Eliot Brenowitz, Harry Greene and Ellen Ketterson. Symposia include “Aggression and Group Organization in Animal Societies”, “Behavioral Genetics for the Next Decade”, “Detecting and Measuring Mating Preferences”, and “ Song Learning”. For further information see: http://www.animalbehavior.org/ABS/ Program, or contact the local hosts Andy Balustein (blaustea@bbc.orst.edu) or Lynne Houck (houck@bcc.orst.edu). Association of Avian Veterinarians (AAV) Conference & Expo - 21-25 August 2001 in Orlando, FL. AAV has issuesd a Call for Papers for this meeting. Theme of the conference is “2001: an Avian Odyssey”. Applications may be submitted by mail, fax or the Internet. Deadline for receipt of applications is 3 Nov. 2000. Call (303) 756-8380, fax (303) 759-886 1 or submit via Internet at www.ConferenceOffice.com/aav. r QDthe GOURMET RODENT TM RATS AND MICE Bill & Marcia Brant 61 15 SW 137th Avenue Archer. FL 32618 (352) 495-9024 FAX (352) 495-9781 e-mail: GrmtRodentdaol.com ® All Rights Reserved Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. II, 2000 461 AAZK Announces New Members New Professional Members Amber Goetz, Acadia Zoological park (ME); Leigh Ann Tully, The Newark Museum (NJ); Gina Savastano, Bronx Zoo (NY); Christopher Shuppand Pamela Schwartz, Claws ‘n’ Paws Wild Animal Park (PA); Aaron R. Kughen, Catoctin Wildlife Preserve & Zoo (MD) Mary Jayne Churchill and Robert W. Fay, WNC Nature Center (NC); Colleen Morrow and Melynn Ina Serkes, St. Catherine’s Island Wildlife Survival Center (GA); Jennifer Duffy, Miami Metrozoo (FL); Lorelei Nemik, Lion Country Safari (FL); Janell M. Harvey, The Florida Aquarium (FL); Jill Woods, Birmingham Zoo (AL); Tammy Jo Hill, Memphis Zoo & Aquarium (TN); Asaba Constantine, Columbus Zoo (OH); Laura Lejsovka, Akron Zoological Park (OH); Laura Balok, Indianapolis Zoo (IN); Christine O’Connell-Glodowski, Milwaukee County Zoo (WI); Tuula Skidmore, Great Plains Zoo (SD); Linda Rougher, Tulsa Zoo & Living Museum (OK); Victor H. Lu, Dallas Zoo (TX); Rachada Hansen, Houston Zoological Garden (TX); Jeffrey L. Baughman and Rebecca Gullott, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (CO); Bethany Larsen, Pueblo Zoo (CO); Donna Lynn Swett and Kerry Giersher, Zoological Society of San Diego (CA); Tamara Ramp, Wildlife Safari (OR); Richard Dickens, Jacquie Randall, Nike Nocei, Harold Masters and Heather A. Parry, Assiniboine Park Zoo (Manitoba). New Institutional Members Moody Gardens, Inc. Galveston, TX Renewing Institutional Members Zoo New England Boston, MA Brian A. Rutledge, President Central Park Zoo New York, NY Don Moore, Curator/Animals ZuPREEM/ Premium Nutritional Products, Inc., Mission, KS David R. Morris, President Chaffee Zoological Gardens Fresno, CA Ralph Waterhouse, Director Renewing Contributing Members William Hamilton, Volunteer The Philadelphia Zoo Philadelphia, PA Bruce M. Thomas Cambridge, MD Carol N. Wright, Volunteer Dallas Zoo, Dallas, TX William H. Disher, Volunteer San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park San Diego, CA MOVING? Please let us know when you change your address! It costs AAZK 99 cents every time sluAKF is returned because of an incorrect address. Call 1-800-242- 4519 (U.S.) or 1-800-468-1966 (Canada) or e-mail aazkoffice@kscable.com to report your new address. THANKS! 462 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 27, No, 11, 2000 Guidelines for Establishing Training and Conditioning Protocols for Captive Duikers By Joseph Robertia-Zoologist The Wildlife Conservation Society Wildlife Survival Center - St. Catherine s Island 182 Camellia Rd., Midway, GA. 31320 Introduction The Need for Training Since the beginning, the captive management of duikers has been nothing less than challenging. Because duikers live most of their lives in dense cover frequented by predators, they must be ready to react instantly to any nearby threat and as such, have one of the most highly developed flight reactions of any hoofed animal (Farst et al., 1980). In captivity most species are nervous, unpredictable, and easily frightened. Even animals that seem well acclimated to their enclosures, its boundaries, and to the daily routine of keepers, can suddenly and without provocation become frantic and explosive. This is a reaction that can have disastrous results. Animals displaying a flight reaction will often ignore boundaries. Alarmed duikers have been known to run straight up walls at great speeds, which often leads to severe injuries such as broken horns and incisors, and in worst case scenarios fractured pelvis, vertebrae, or legs (Farst et al, 1980). In addition to the duikers nervous temperament, which in itself is a challenge, several other factors contribute to an uncertain future that at times seems bleak for captive populations. Cephalophinae tend to be small, expensive, and, as already stated, difficult to handle. Many zoological collections would rather use the exhibit space for larger, less troublesome animals (Thomas et al., 1986). The genetic diversity of the captive population is relatively low, presently less than 90% in nearly all species due to small numbers of imports and limited founder stocks (Chris Pfefferkorn, personal comm.). Never numerous and with a mortality rate which either equaled or exceeded the survival rate, captive populations have always been in jeopardy (Thomas et al., 1986). Taking all this into consideration, any contributions that would aid or benefit the captive management of these species would also have significant application to their long-term success in captivity. Training and conditioning duikers can be one such contribution. The Benefits of Training Training is a useful tool in animal management and there are numerous benefits to establishing a training program for duikers. Trainers develop much closer relationships with their animals and therefore become more sensitive to subtle changes in their behavior. Often subtle changes are the first signs of illness and can result in veterinary care before more overt symptoms become present. Animals can be trained to voluntarily participate in routine physical examinations and treatments. This not only benefits the animal by reducing stress, but also increases the safety to both staff and animals by avoiding chemical and physical restraint. Duikers are fragile and delicate creatures that can on occasion be injured during physical captures involving manual restraint. Training animals to cooperate in minor veterinary Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 463 procedures is often a safer alternative. Veterinary care training can also be expanded to accommodate research endeavors. Duikers could possibly be conditioned to provide body fluids (i.e. blood, saliva, milk, etc.) that are often needed and invaluable to research projects. Animal training can lead to better time efficiency. The consistency and success rate of shifting on and off exhibit can be improved, as well as moving animals throughout the exhibit. Duikers can be crate or trailer trained to facilitate transport to another exhibit or area of the zoo, or for shipment out of the zoo. Training programs should not be overlooked as enrichment for animals. Antelopes and other mminants are often overlooked as needing enrichment compared to the “bigger brained” taxa such as primates, carnivores, and marine mammals. However, training is beneficial to the psychological well-being of antelopes. Most duikers will eagerly participate in training sessions. The Basics of Training There are a few basic concepts that are universal with all training programs regardless of the species involved or the goals that are to be achieved. Incorporating these basics will establish a strong foundation from which a training program can be developed. 1 . REVIEW THE LITERATURE - It is advantageous to learn what has already been done. Often animal managers will “reinvent the wheel” by taking days to weeks to overcome obstacles or problems with an animal’s behavior. Only later after great time and effort has been exhausted will they discover that another institution has already found a solution to the same problem or situation. Weeks of progress have been delayed ' by a problem that could have been easily circumvented, not to mention all the trial and i error that the trainer could have avoided. There are several resources available that can yield useful material including zoo journals, yearbooks, newsletters, and conference proceedings. Reviewing the literature can also ! reveal contacts at other institutions that could provide useful suggestions. Always try to gather as much training information as possible, as well as information on the species (and related species) to be trained. This will not only give insight into potential problems I that can be avoided or overcome, but can aid a program by providing helpful tips that | can be incorporated into the training regime. |! 2. STUDY EACH ANIMAL’ S INDIVIDUAL CHARACTERISTICS - Begin bv learning i aspects of the animal’s behavior. Try to learn daily activity patterns that could be used to determine the best time of day to attempt training activities. Studying daily activity patterns can show areas of the exhibit the animal frequents more often than others. This can aid a project by conducting training sessions in areas that the animal feels more ’ comfortable. It is beneficial to learn an animal’s food preferences as well. Try to detennine if there is || a type of browse, produce item, or other part of the diet that is favored. These items | may be used to entice or reward animals during early training sessions. ! An animal’s fears should be determined early on in any training endeavor. Objects, people, or sounds that scare them should not be present during training sessions. It is :j critical that a negative association is not made with any part of the training or conditioning process. The concept of flight zones, or an animal’s personal space, must be well understood. Flight zones can be different for each animal. The size of the flight zone is affected by both previous experiences and genetic factors that affect temperament ’ 464 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 27, No. 11, 2000 (Grandin et al., 1 995). Violating the flight zone can trigger panic, fear, and quick escape attempts by an animal. This not only causes stress, but can lead to injuries as well. It is best to let the animal come to you. If the choice is made to go to the animal, respect its flight zone by slowly approaching it. Gradually approach the animal only until it moves away. Do not pursue or chase the animal. 3. OUTLINE A TRAINING PROGRAM - Initially, a meeting should be held that will include everyone who will be involved. This should be the trainers as well as non- training personnel within the area. This is done so that all staff will have a consistent routine and will understand the developing project. It can be highly detrimental to a program when someone not directly involved with the training of the animal makes changes or adds variations to the daily routine. This is usually done by other keepers and/or husbandry providers in the form of moving items used for training or by feeding novel foods that can inhibit training. Whether this is done as a result of poor communication or staff territoriality the end result is the same. Once all staff is assembled the first subject to discuss is “where you are”. Identify current behaviors that are known or exhibited by the animals. This is also the time to discuss potential or existing problems. Problems may include exhibit drawbacks, medical conditions, temperaments, or an animal’s discomfort with being separated from conspecifics. Next, the discussion should move towards “where you want to be”. Identify specific needs or behaviors that would like to be achieved. Prioritize all needs in order of importance, but also in the chronological order they need to be achieved. Simple behaviors taking precedence over more complex ones. This is particularly useful if multiple behaviors will be trained. “How to get there” must also be discussed. This stage of planning should be recorded in writing and should follow a step-by-step format. Specific goals should be set to achieve the needs that have been addressed. Describe the methods that are to be used, keeping in mind that there are several means to the same end. A method that proves successful with one animal, may fail with another for any number of reasons including personality, temperament, etc. Having several methods is often advantageous to having only one. Finally, is the task of “personnel assignmenf’. Everyone should understand all previously discussed subjects and what their specific role is in the training program. Attempts should be made to assign tasks that are interesting to each individual. For example, some of the “old school” keepers can provide invaluable information on individual animals with which they have a history. Yet, these same people may show little to no interest in the “hands on” training. As such, they would be important components to the training program’s conception, but perhaps a more suitable candidate would be better as the primary trainer. 4. BEGIN WITH ONLY ONE TRAINER - Assigning one person to work with an animal throughout the process of training a particular behavior will minimize inconsistencies (Sevenich, 1 995). Several people attempting to train the same behavior can be confusing to an animal. After the animal learns the behaviors other trainers can work with the animal to maintain the behavior (Sevenich, 1995). Using one trainer also has the advantage of gaining the animals trust more quickly. Animals will often form a good rapport with one person. Acclimating them to several people is possible, but may take much longer. Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol 27, No. 11, 2000 465 5. QUIT WHILE YOU’RE AHEAD - It is good to always end a training session on a positive note, such as when an animal correctly performs a desired behavior. It is detrimental to push an animal to the point where it becomes uncooperative before ending a training session. This can reinforce the animal’s avoidance behaviors or its unwillingness to train. Respect the animal’s limits. It is better to stop a procedure and try again another day than to push an animal to its limits in an uncomfortable situation and jeopardize losing a behavior (Sevenich, 1995). 6. KEEP RECORDS - Record keeping is important for many reasons. They can be used to keep track of an animal’s progress and can be an aid in reviewing methods that are effective (Sevenich, 1995). Records can be used as a template for outlining programs for other animals or related species. New keepers can be quickly oriented to the program when training records are available. Records can also be shared with other trainers, either by being written up for publication or by being shipped with an animal to another institution so that the training program may be understood and continued. 7. REGULARLY REVIEW YOUR PROGRAM - Just as maintaining records will keep track of progress, reviewing records will aid in evaluating a program. Training methods that prove effective can be further explored or expanded upon. Less effective methods can be changed or discontinued. The pace of the program can be gauged to detemiine its speed. Too slow a pace can cause an animal to lose interest, but too quick a pace can frighten animal. Reviewing the program can also be a boost to staff morale. A trainer’s self esteem and confidence will often blossom as a result of seeing the progress they have made with training an animal. DUIKER TRAINING AND CONDITIONING PROTOCOLS Weight Collection An animal’s weight is a highly effective diagnostic tool. Regular measure of weight provides an excellent way of monitoring individual animal health and can reveal fluctuations that give an early indication of illness or suboptimal management (Kirkwood & Mace, 1996). Behavioral conditioning for weight collection is simple and therefore is a good challenge to begin a program with. This method is often referred to as the “bait and wait” because of how little effort is involved. Detailed methods of weight conditioning have be described by the author in (Robertia et ai, 2000). The first step in this process is to designate feed stations. Keep in mind these areas of the duiker’s exhibit or holding area are where the scale will eventually be placed. Consideration should be taken to find areas that are both comfortable to the animals and accessible to the keepers. Once an area is decided upon, it is at these designated locations that all feeding sessions should occur. Duikers can also be encouraged or enticed to the area with small amounts of novel food items such as fruits, vegetables, or browse. The second stage of conditioning involves utilizing environmental prompts at the feed stations. An environmental prompt involves adding or removing a stimulus to increase the likelihood of getting a correct response (Burch & Baily, 1 999). These prompts can be anything from manufactured chutes, piles of deadfall, or natural funnels within the exhibit. The design of the prompts is not relevant as long as the effect of channeling the animal in between two barriers is the same. It is also important that the duikers can not gain access to feed bowls 466 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 Figure 1 - Duikers are fed at the entrance of the chute over a period of time to allow them to adjust to the mock scales. from outside the chutes. Deadfall is commonly utilized as an environmental prompt due to its natural aesthetics within the exhibit. Many institutions use deadfall for olfactory enrichment for duikers so that they may scent mark using their preorbital glands (Ralls, 1 974; Kendall & Rieches, 2000). Incorporating exhibit furnishings into conditioning regimes has an added benefit because animals will already be accustomed to the presence of these objects. Once the duikers are successfully acclimated to entering the chutes and remaining in them while they consume their daily diets, “mock scales” can begin to be introduced. These platforms should mimic the appearance and dimensions of the true scale in every way possible. Height, width, length, color, and surface texture should all be identical to the true scale. Using plywood to construct the platforms is perhaps the least complex method, but any material can be used. This is particularly true if rubber mats will be used on top of both devices. However, mats will not be necessary if the two surfaces are made to be granular or non-skid. It is advisable to first introduce the animals to the mock scales by placing them outside of the exhibit but within visual range. This is done so that the duikers may acclimate to the presence of the structures. After several days the platforms can be placed within the exhibit and then gradually, day after day, moved into the feed chutes. Duikers will sometimes become hesitant to enter the chute once the mock scale is in place. This behavior is common and can be easily overcome. In most cases, animals can be fed at the entrance of the chute, then over a period of days to weeks the feed bowl can be placed on the mock platform. The feed bowls are then gradually placed further and further back into the chute until it is at the desired position. The period of habituation will be dictated by the temperament of the animal and may vary from individual to individual. However, once the duikers are consuming their rations comfortably within the chutes and standing on the platforms with all four hooves, the mock scales can be interchanged for the true scales and the weight of the animals can be collected (Figure 1 & 2). Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 467 Figure 2 - Duikers make the transition from the mock scales to the true scales where weights are collected. Target Training Target training can have many advantages. The close proximity and increased time spent with the duikers can gain their trust and aid in establishing a positive relationship with them. The most common use of targets is to train an animal to hold a position or station. This technique can be used for visual inspection. Targets can be used for shaping an animal’s movements or for directing them within areas of an exhibit. This can be helpful during introductions to a new exhibit. Targets can be used for shifting procedures or to separate animals, as would be the case in multi-species exhibits where each species has its own holding area. Animals can be target trained to accept physical examinations and a wide variety of veterinary procedures. Target training can also be used for weight collection as well and can surpass the bait and wait method by shaping the animal to remain still for a more extended duration of time. The first step in target training duikers is to decide on a bridging stimulus. The bridge will signal that the animal has done something correct and that it is going to be rewarded or reinforced. A clicker is an excellent bridge for duiker training. The benefit of using a clicker is that it is possible to reinforce behaviors that occur at a distance or where a food reward can not be immediately given. Also, the split-second precision that can be achieved with the clicker makes it possible to communicate exactly what it is the trainer is looking for, such as tiny movements of a hoof (Pryor, 1985). Initially, the clicker is simply paired with food. This is done so that the duikers will know that the click means a reward is coming. Duikers tend to make the connection between the bridge and the reinforcement very quickly. The food rewards should be provided in small amounts and should be able to be quickly consumed by the animals to minimize delays in training sessions. It is advantageous to use highly palatable foods that are not part of the 468 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 Figure 3 - A target, such as a short section of a broom handle, is used in the behavior training. duikers regular diet. Once the animal is thoroughly conditioned to the sound of the bridge and knows what it means, desired behaviors and responses can begin to be bridged and reinforced. The next step is to introduce a target. Targets can be almost any objects from the trainer’s fist to a short section of broom handle (Figure 3). The goal of targeting is to shape the duikers behavior to touch the object with their nose. Duikers should have a period of time for desensitization to the target. Targets can be carried or held during training sessions for several days before being used for training. Once training with the target begins it is important to bring the animals to the target instead of bringing the target to them (Sevenich, 1995).. Some duikers are very curious and may immediately touch the target; others may need more incentive. If an animal is uninterested in the target, food can be stuck or smeared on the end to increase its appeal and to lessen the animals fear of the device (Sevenich, 1995). It is very important to give the bridging stimulus while the animal is touching the target and not once it has stopped touching it. Otherwise, the behavior of stopping will be reinforced instead of targeting. In early stages of training every time the duiker touches the target it should be reinforced. This is known as continuous reinforcement. Later, after the animal is strongly conditioned, the interval and ratio of reinforcement can be manipulated. Crate Training The capture and transfer of duikers is a common and necessary component of their captive management. Animals often need to be kenneled for transfer within the zoo or crated for Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 469 shipment to another institution. Several traditional methods can be used to achieve this task. Animals are often chased or run into crates or trailers depending on the size of the species involved. Captures with long handle nets typically used for avian or small primate captures are common (Robertia, personal obs.). Duikers can be snared using the forest net capture technique in which a long mesh net is run across the exhibit and animals are driven into it, entangled, and then restrained (Karesh et al., 1995). Some duikers can be hand grabbed or in the larger species, such as the yellow-backed duikers {Cephalophus sylvicultor) or Jentink’s duikers (Cephalophus jentinki), animals can be restrained by using plywood panels or “bully boards” to push them against walls for manual capture (Verity Bowman, personal comm.). There is also the alternative of using chemical immobilization, which can be achieved with remote darting equipment (Farst et al, 1980). These techniques, although all effective in varying degrees, pose the potential for injury to both staff and animals. Crate training is the process by which an animal is gradually acclimated to a shipping crate and comes to regard the crate as a safe and secure place (Kranz, 1996). This alternative method is not only safer but also has the benefit of reducing stress on the duikers (Kranz, 1996). Step one in any crate training program is to decide on a crate. The size and style of the crate will be determined by the age, sex, weight, and species of the duiker moved (Kranz, 1996). Sky Kennels® and shipping crates are both suitable for training. The Philadelphia Zoo has been very successful using an innovative design which utilizes a canvas bag that is attached to a rectangular PVC frame (Sinander, 1999). This method is also the preferred procedure of the U.S. Department of Agriculture personnel at the Clifton, NJ Quarantine Station (Farst et al., 1980). There has also been speculation that a crate design that is low in height but wide enough for an antelope to move and turn around comfortably may be more suitable for duikers, particularly for the larger species. This is currently being explored further (Linda Rhor, personal comm.). After a suitable crate is decided upon, a period of acclimation must take place to habituate the duikers to the presence of these foreign objects. Animals should be given the opportunity to realize that the object in place will not harm them. Research has shown that if an animal’s first experience with a new procedure, place, or equipment is either painful or frightening, they will have a long-lasting fear response and may not enter it again (Miller, 1960). The floor of the crate can be covered with familiar substrate, such as hay, earth, or crushed stone, to improve the footing, and adding manure can make the animal feel more secure (Kranz, 1996). It may also help to remove any doors to the crate during the initial phases of training. The next step is to place portions of the diet, or novel foods, in the vicinity of the crate. Slowly and gradually the animals can be trained to enter the crate by baiting it with the food items. As the duikers become more comfortable with the procedure, the food should be placed further into the crate (Figure 4). This should continue until the animals have completely entered the crate. Duikers can also be fed small pieces of produce through the side windows of the kennel as a reward for entering the crate. Once the duikers recognize the crate as a comfortable place and are spending extended periods within it feeding on their diet, the doors to the crate can be reattached and begin being moved. The door to the crate should be a solid visual barrier. When using a Sky Kennel® it may be necessary to cover the crate door with burlap, shade cloth, or some other non-transparent material. Acclimation to the doors and their movement should proceed slowly. No attempt should be made to capture an animal until it is completely habituated to the door movements (Grandin et al., 1995). After the animals learn that the doors are harmless and they are unresponsive to the door movements a capture can be attempted. The initial captures should be followed by immediate releases. Also, it is important to allow the duikers to consume some of its diet before the 470 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 door is closed. It is better to make movements of both people and equipment slow and steady as opposed to sudden and quick so as not to frighten the animals. If in the first few sessions captures are successful, duikers can begin to be captured and immediately released several times within one training session if they remain cooperative and will continue to enter the crate. It is important that animals be fed rewards, preferably treats or novel foods, during periods of capture. After several brief captures have been successful, the period of containment can begin to be increased. Starting with a duration of 10-15 seconds and gradually progressing to longer periods of 30-45 seconds, up to 60 seconds, up to several minutes. Once animals are remaining calm for extended periods (greater than 10 minutes) of capture, desensitization to crate movements can begin. Feeding the animals while they are captured should remain a constant. The procedure should begin very slowly by just gradually rocking the crate back and forth or spinning it in small increments. This can continue in intensity until a point is achieved where the animal is remaining calm within the crate while it is being moved, lifted, or transferred to different locations. A to B target training is another alternative that may possibly be used to reliably crate train duikers. This would be a slow and gradual process as well. This method of training involves having two keepers; each with a target, clicker, and food for reinforcement (Hellmuth, 1995). Animals are trained to target to one person and then be sent to a target held by the second person. This is done by using verbal cues for each person, typically “A” is used for the one person and “B” is used for the other (Hellmuth, 1995). The distance between the two targets is short at first, but is gradually increased over time. As the animal successful adapts to the greater distance, the “B” person can be faded out and replaced by a remote target. The remote target would then be transitioned into the crate. The bridge would continue to be used to reinforce behaviors such as approaching the crate, stepping into the crate, and eventually for remaining inside the crate. Once acclimated to holding station on a target Figure 4 - Favorite food items are placed farther and farther into the crate to encourage the duiker to enter. Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 471 inside the crate, the doors can be manipulated and closed in the same manner as already stated. Both of these two methods of crate training are believed to be safe and reliable for captive duikers. Leg Manipulation for Hoof Trimming Training for manipulation of the legs and hooves of duikers is another degree of tractability that should be sought after. Antelope are conditioned to allow leg manipulation for a variety of purposes, with the most common reason typically being to facilitate hoof trimming and maintenance. Duikers’ hooves have the tendency to over- grow quickly even when they are provided with course or granular substrates. Some institutions recommend hooftrims every one to three months depending on wear (Kendall & Rieches, 2000). In addition hoof abscesses and hoof sloughing are somewhat common veterinary problems (Frahm, 2000). Animals that are already conditioned to approach a keeper and hold a position can begin the desensitization of having their legs touched. Target training is advantageous for this procedure as sensory input from one source can partially mask sensory input from another source (Grandin et ah, 1995). Focusing the duiker’s attention on the target may make the animal less cognitive of tactile contact to its legs and hooves. Very brief light touches should be used at first, and gradually they can become longer and more firm until the duikers tolerate long, firm touches and strokes (Phillips, 1995). During the early phases of the habituation process treats should be given continually. As the animals begin to cooperate with the leg manipulations, food items should be switched from the enticement to a positive reinforcement reward (Grandin et ah, 1995). Rewards should be given only when the duikers remain still for tactile contact and should be withheld for kicking or twitching (Grandin et ah, 1995). Once leg touching is regularly tolerated, leg lifting can begin (Figure 5 & 6). Front legs can be lifted by grasping low to the hoof and slowly and carefully bending the leg at the knee. The leg should continue to be flex backwards in a natural movement until the hoof is up near the animals armpit area. Once the duikers are allowing leg lifts using this method, the duration of the leg lifts can be gradually increased. It should be pointed out that even the most tractable of duikers will rarely allow their legs to be held up in this position for more than 60 seconds at a time. When animals are calmly cooperating with their legs being lifted and held, hoof-trimming tools can be introduced. After a brief phase of acclimation, the hoof-trimming tools can begin to be used. Hoof trims may need to be accomplished over a period of days. It is better to take a little off each hoof for several consecutive days, rather than push the animal in one session and risk a negative association being made. Hind legs can be manipulated in much the same manner as the front limbs. The only difference being that the hind limbs should not be extended backwards. They should just be lifted off the ground to a height comfortable to the animal, rather than completely bent as in the technique used for the front legs. Duikers are typically more hesitant to having their rear legs touched, but there is a trick to getting their cooperation. By touching the inside of the leg about half way up, just above the hock, a lifting reaction can be elicited. By pairing this behavior with a verbal cue, such as “hoof’, and using a bridge and positive reinforcement, it becomes very simple to train the duikers for hoof presentation. Animals can also be taught to lift their hooves by bridging and rewarding them every time they would naturally hold up a hoof. Duikers tend to hold one hoof off the ground regularly when stepping slowly towards something they are uncertain about or when pausing to assess a situation Kranz & Lumpkin, 1982). This method, although reliable as well, can take much longer than desensitization to touch. 472 Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No, 11, 2000 Figure 5 - The duikers are desensitized to having their legs lifted through a series of sessions introducing leg stroking and touching. Figure 6 - Once the animal has become used to having its legs lifted, hoof trimming tools can be introduced. Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 473 Figure 7 - Six to eight weeks prior to parturition, the duiker is acclimated to having its teats touched and eventually manipulated for milk collection following the birth. Milk Collection Milk is the sole source of nutrients for all mammalian neonates, yet very little is known about the milk of exotic animals (Taylor, 1 988; Phillips & Turnbull, 1 997). This is unfortunate, as historically there have been several incidences of insufficient maternal care provided by duikers in managed populations (Chriss Miller, personal comm.). Calves are readily hand- reared for a variety of medical reasons including failure to thrive, maternal illness, and maternal rejection, or for management reasons such as to maximize a single female’s reproduction or to make individuals more tractable and less fractious as adults (Frahm, 1999). By conditioning duikers to participate with routine milk collection it is possible to perform analysis of milk composition for the formulation of suitable milk replacers. Milk composition changes through the period of early to late lactation. By understanding these changes, different formulas can be made to correlate to the different stages of calf development so that the calves achieve optimum nutrition. The ability to collect milk from conditioned duikers can also yield pure colostrum that can be used for hand-rearing. Pure milk is preferable to a replacer with a colostrum substitute. Habituation for milk collection should begin about 6-8 weeks prior to parturition. Initially touches to the teats should be gentle and brief, and then longer and firmer as the animals become acclimated. Once the duikers do not react to having their udder and teats touched for several minutes, more intense manipulations can be performed. Teats should be pulled down in a stripping motion with the thumb and forefinger (Taylor, 1 988)(Figure 7 & 8). As with all other training, the duikers should be rewarded for the behavior of standing still and cooperating with the procedure. 474 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 Figure 8 - Milk collection allows for analysis of milk composition for the formation of suitable milk replacers for use when hand-rearing is necessary. Just before milk collection the teats should be cleaned with alcohol to prevent possible mastitis. Actual milk collection can begin on the fifth day after the calf is bom if it remains with its dam and can begin immediately if calves are rejected or pulled for other reasons. This is done to ensure that calves reared naturally receive all essential colostmm. The interval of milk collection should be once weekly for two months (Taylor, 1988). Dams can be stimulated to let-down milk by first pushing firmly several times high up on the udder before attempting to massage the teats. Although, it may be necessary in some animals to administer an injection of oxytocin to facilitate milk let-down. This may be necessary since the “fore milk” already in the lower portion of the teats may be left over from previous nursing bouts and can have a different composition from that of complete milk (Phillips & Turnbull, 1997). Milk samples should be refrigerated immediately after collection. Body Temperature Collection Despite how it may seem, rectal temperature collection is one of the simplest behaviors to train. Once duikers are trained to hold a position, gradual desensitization to having their tail and anogenital region manipulated can begin. Many duikers will show little to no response to having this done. This is understandable, as this area is such a common area of interest for conspecifics to smell and lick. The process should move slowly and should mimic the natural behaviors that would be encountered from other animals. Lifting the tail and gently rubbing the anus is very similar to the behavior of an adult animal trying to stimulate a calf to defecate. This form of desensitization will rarely elicit any negative reaction from duikers and is a good first step before introducing the thermometer. Although the duikers do not Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 475 necessarily need time to adjust to the sight of the thermometer, they may need time to habituate to the feel of the lubricant. For some animals it may be necessary to lubricate the gloved fingers for several training sessions before proceeding to the thermometer. After a brief period of manipulation using the finger, a thermometer can be introduced (Figure 9). Insertion of the lubricated thermometer should proceed slowly, so as not to frighten or injure the duikers. It may be necessary to attach a string to the thermometer to prevent an animal from running away with the device still in them. In the beginning, it is better to only insert the thermometer for several seconds and then reward the duikers. Collection of an accurate body temperature can take up to several minutes and should be worked up to by gradually increasing the insertion time of the thennometer each day. Figure 9 - After a brief period of manipulation using a lubricated finger, a thermometer may be introduced for temperature monitoring. Once temperature collection is occurring regularly, it can be used to monitor several areas of captive management. Body temperatures can be used to detect any early signs of illness. Husbandry can be improved, particularly for indoor enclosures by comparing body temperatures with ambient temperatures. Thermoregulation is believed to be poor in many Cephalophinae and all attempts should be made to provide optimum husbandry requirements including proper enclosure temperatures (Thomas et al., 1986). Also, although it has never been explored in this species, temperature might be used to determine estrus cycles in female animals. Temperature has been used to monitor estrous in domestic ungulates (Wrenn et al, 1958). Another possibility would be to have body temperature correlated with fecal hormone monitoring. If possible, this information could be used to track reproductive cycles and aid breeding efforts of captive duikers. Training for Tactile Desensitization and Veterinary Procedures Preventative medicine protocols for duikers are wide in scope. Optimally, annual physical examinations could be performed but must be weighed against the anesthetic and accidental injury risks (Frahm, 1999). Opportunistic physical examinations typically become the norm. This is unfortunate however, because signs of illness in duikers may not be obvious or even apparent until the animal is in extremely poor health (Farst et al., 1980). At this point, the health of the animal may already be so compromised that the stress of a physical or chemical 476 Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 restraint for proper diagnosis may result in death. By training and conditioning duikers to cooperate for routine physical examinations and diagnostic sample collection, it becomes possible to monitor animal health consistently and more effectively. Starting with simple behaviors and working up to more complex procedures, a nearly complete physical examination can be an obtainable goal. Acclimation of the animals to tactile contact over their entire body is the first hurdle that must be overcome. The initial tactile contact can take an extended period of time depending on the temperament of the animal. However, once the animal begins to accept regular contact to one area, the progression of areas that can be further touched will usually follow in “leaps and bounds”. Areas such as the ears, top of the head, the sides of the neck, and the soft areas around the eyes, all seem to be where first contact is most readily accepted (pers. obs.). In some cases, first contact can be achieved by feeding novel foods in a close enough proximity so that tactile contact can be easily achieved when the animal approaches to eat. This method has two advantages. The first advantage being that the duiker comes to the keeper and not the other way around. This is important since duikers are often nervous when approached. The second advantage is that the animal will make a positive association between being touched and something it enjoys (i.e. the novel food). Initially, animals may flee in response to even the briefest human contact. However, real progress can be made once the animals overcome this fear and begin to display one of two typical postures in response to human touch. The first posture has an almost submissive appearance. The duiker will lower its head and neck, put its ears back, and will cease all behaviors such as chewing, tail-wagging, walking, etc. In addition to this, the duiker will close its eyes to a half-open position. This “half mast” position of the eyes would seem to signify a relaxed state and it is once this trance-like state is achieved that increased tactile contact over the body will begin to be accepted. The second posture is very similar to the aforementioned position with only a few exceptions. The primary difference being that the animal will assume a more erect stance, and will often crane their neck around in response to the tactile contact. The duiker will also display the “half masf ’ position of the eyelids just as in the previously described posture. Some duikers can become so accepting of human touch that they will prefer it over novel food. Some duiker will even display solicitation behaviors and will approach a keeper and present their head to them without the keeper having to initiate the tactile contact. This behavior has also been reported in duikers that are frequently groomed by primates (Borland & Borland, 1978; Moore & Moore, 1988). Duikers have also been observed displacing one another to gain access to the grooming hand of a keeper. Some of the smaller species of duikers will actually use their heads to butt another animal out of the way. This degree of tactile contact can facilitate several aspects of veterinary care. Several injuries are common in captive duikers and can be both closely monitored or treated with topical medications. These can include lacerations and abrasions from exaggerated flight responses (Kendall & Rieches, 2000). Acral lick dermatitis, when duikers frequently “worry” a wound by constantly licking the site can enlarge an injury or impede its healing (Frahm, 1999). Punctures to the perineal region and tail are common during courtship in some species (Farst et al, 1980). Facial and mandibular abscesses are frequently reported in duikers (Roeder, etaL, 1989; Udell, 1981). Corneal ulcers and abrasions to the eye can be reoccurring injuries (pers. obs.). Preorbital glands can also impact or become infected (pers. obs.). By training animals to cooperate in the examination process many veterinary procedures can be performed. In addition to what has already been discussed other veterinary procedures that could be trained for include but are not limited to: Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 477 blood collection vaginal swabs administration of intramuscular and subcutaneous injections saliva collection urine collection radiographs external sonography tuberculin testing and reading Several of these aforementioned procedures can be developed by expanding upon existing trained behaviors. In addition, several of these procedures will require the duikers to be habituated to unusual noises and foreign sounds. Conditioning to desensitize the animals to these sounds should be performed early in the training process. Devices that will be used during the procedure are best to use, but other noise making devices will work as well. Cordless shavers are often used before blood collection can be attempted, so using the actual device would be the best item for desensitization conditioning. Electric toothbrushes, dremel tools and radios playing music softly can also be used to expose duikers to novel sounds (Figure 10). This conditioning, which has direct application for veterinary procedures, also has the benefit of animals becoming acclimated to other frightening sounds. These sounds may come in several forms including lawn mowers and other lawn equipment, power tools and machinery for exhibit repair and maintenance, and loud and boisterous zoo patrons. Many, if not all of these, can become white sound to the duikers over time. Figure 10 - Use of electric toothbrushes, dremel tools or radios playing softly can be used to expose duikers to novel sounds. 478 Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 Conclusion The future management of captive duiker populations could be greatly enhanced through more formalized training programs. Historically, many duiker deaths have occurred during capture and restraint, transfer and shipment, and veterinary procedures (ISIS, unpublished data). Husbandry-related behavior problems may undermine the demographic or genetic management goals of captive propogation programs (Carlstead, 2000). At times, population managers have to overlook animals genetically valuable to the captive population for fear that a shipment to another institution might result in that animal’s death. By making training programs a component of the animal husbandry regime, it may be possible to overcome such behavioral obstacles and thus more effectively maintain viable captive populations of duikers. Duikers recommended for transfer could have training goals identified and strategies developed that relate directly to the shipment procedure or the pre-shipment veterinary examination. However, it would be more beneficial to have existing training programs in place for the animal, which could be intensified prior to the occurrence of an impending shipment or veterinary procedure. Training antelope to cooperate with veterinary and shipment procedures provides many advantages including improved animal welfare, reduced stress, and a reduced chance of injury to both staff and animals (Grandin et al., 1995). The data that can be obtained from a training program are useful to both the research and management of duikers in captivity. Physiological data that is gathered from animals cooperating with a procedure is much more reliable than data collected under stressful conditions. As such, this information would be important as baseline physiological data for “at rest” captive duikers has not yet been determined (Frahm, 1999). In the wild and captivity, animals often exhibit profound individual differences in temperament and personality (Carlstead, 2000). Duikers are no exception. Their requirements are highly specialized and have not always been catered for successfully (Thomas et al., 1986). The various species of duiker tend to be as different from each other as they are from other antelope species (Husbandry, Nutrition and Health of Captive Duikers - International Workshop 2000, unpublished data). In regards to training, what may work with one species or individual may not be possible with another. Some zoos have reported duikers that display aggression directed at keepers (Udell, 1981). While other institutions have reported duikers that are so nervous that they will run themselves to total exhaustion in response to a zoo visitor tossing a piece of paper into their enclosure (Kianz & Lumpkin, 1982). Animal managers need to consider the behavioral characteristics of individual animals when identifying and establishing the goals of a conditioning or training program. Although some aspects of training may be possible with almost any duiker, not every aspect will be possible with all duikers. Several of the duiker training concepts discussed in this paper have already been successful in a limited number of zoological institutions. Others have been developed from existing programs involving other species of antelope, but the application to duiker management is both relevant and possible. Duiker training and behavioral conditioning is a significant development because of their unpredictable natural temperament. Animals that are as nervous and as easily excitable as duikers are considered to be more difficult to train. However, if the training process begins slowly and is allowed to evolve at a pace dictated by the animals, training can be a successful and integral part of the animal management program for duikers. The initial conditioning and training may demand extra time and effort, but the maintenance of the learned behaviors will not. Further efforts need to continue in regard to antelope training. The various forms of training used should be shared within the zoo community. Institutions need to compile in-house training material and make this information available to others. By identifying existing resource material it becomes more apparent what new materials need to be developed. The various forums for antelope training provided within AZA should be utilized and expanded Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 479 upon at both the regional and national levels. One possibility would be to integrate an animal training course into the curriculum at the AZA Professional Development Schools. Animal training should become a focal topic of workshops and sessions held during zoological conferences. It is only through a better awareness of what can be accomplished through animal training and conditioning programs that real progress can be made towards improved husbandry techniques and an improved quality of life for captive antelope. Acknowledgements I would like to thank Lisa Fitzgerald for taking the time to edit multiple drafts of this manuscript as well as for all the moral support she lends to me and all the animal keepers she comes into contact with. I would also like to thank Terry “the mint” Norton, Colleen Morrow, Jeff Spratt, John Behler, Pat Thomas, and Richard Lattis for their editorial comments. Photos provided by the author. References Borland, R. & Borland, M. (1979). Vervet monkeys grooming a red duiker. LAM- MERGEYER 27:47-49. Burch, M.R. & Baily, J.S. (1999). HOW DOGS LEARN. New York: Macmillian Co. Carlstead, K. (2000). CONSTRUCTING BEHAVIORAL PROFILES FOR ZOO ANI- MALS: INCORPORATING BEHAVIORAL INFORMATION INTO CAPTIVE POPU- LATION MANAGEMENT. Oregon: AZA Behavior and Husbandry Advisory Group. Farst, D.D., Thompson, D.P., Stones, G.A., Burchfield, P.M., & Hughes, M.L. (1980). Maintenance and breeding of duikers at Gladys Porter Zoo, Brownsville, TX. INTERNA- TIONAL ZOO YEARBOOK, P.J.S. Olney, (ed.), London: The Zoological Society of London, 20:93-99. Frahm, M.W. (1999). Medical management of duikers, pp. 668-680. In ZOO AND WILD ANIMAL MEDICINE, (eds.) Fowler, M.E. & Miller, R.E. Philadelphia, London: W.B. Saunders Co. Grandin, T, Rooney, M.B., Phillips, M., Cambre, R.C., Irlbeck, N.A., & Graffam, W. (1995). Conditioning of nyala {Tragelaphus angasi) to blood sampling in a crate using positive reinforcement. ZOO BIOLOGY, 14:261-273. Hellmuth, H. (1995). Behavioral training of 1.1 black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis). AZA REGIONAL CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS, pp. 424-429. Karesh, W.B., Hart, J.A., Hart, T.B., House, C., Torres, A., Dierenfeld, E.S., Braselton, W.E., Puche, H., & Cook, R.A. (1995). Health evaluation of five sympatric duiker species (Cephalophus spp.). JOURNAL OF ZOO AND WILDLIFE MEDICINE, 26(4): 485-502. Kendall, G. & Rieches, R. (2000). AZA ANTELOPE TAG HUSBANDRY MANUAL - CEPHALOPHINAE. San Diego: Zoological Society of San Diego. Kirkwood, J.K. & Mace, G.M. (1996). Patterns of growth in mammals, pp. 513-527. In WILD MAMMALS IN CAPTIVITY, (eds.) Klieman, D.G., Allen, M.E., Thompson, K.V., & S. Lumpkin. Chicago: University of Chicago Press. Kranz, K.R. (1996). Introduction, socialization, and crate training techniques, pp. 78-87. In WILD MAMMALS IN CAPTIVITY, (eds.) Klieman, D.G., Allen, M.E., Thompson, K.V., & S. Lumpkin. Chicago: University of Chicago Press. 480 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 Kranz, K.R. & Lumpkin, S. (1982). Notes on the yellow-backed duiker (Cephalophus sylvicultor) in captivity with comments on its natural history. INTERNATIONAL ZOO YEARBOOK, RJ.S. Olney (ed.), London: the Zoological Society of London, 22:232-240. Miller, N.E. (1960). Learning resistance to pain and fear: Effects of overlearning, exposure, and rewarded exposure in context. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL PSY- CHOLOGY, 60:137-145. Moore, D. & Moore, A.W. (1988). Duiker antelope - African green monkey mixed exhibit: animal introductions. AAZPA REGIONAL CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS, pp. 725-729. Phillips, M. (1995). Conditioning of bongos {Tragelaphus eurycerus) and nyala (Tmgelaphus angasi) to blood sampling in a crate using positive reinforcement. AAZK NATIONAL CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS, pp. 108-1 15. Phillips, M. & Turnbull, M. (1997). Routine milk collection from crate trained bongo {Tragelaphus eurycerus) at the Denver Zoological Garden. AAZK NATIONAL CON- FERENCE PROCEEDINGS, pp. I62-I67. Pryor, K. (1985). A DOG AND A DOLPHIN 2.0. AN INTRODUCTION TO CLICKER TWINING. Simon & Schulster Inc., New York, NY. Ralls, K.J. (1974). Scent marking in captive Maxwell’s duikers. In: THE BEHAVIOR OF UNGULATES AND ITS RELATIONSHIP TO MANAGEMENT, 1 : 1 14-123. Robertia, J.M., Sauceda, J., & Willison, R. (2000). Conditioning three species of aridland antelope for weight collection- A case study on Hippotraginae. ANIMAL KEEPERS’ FORUM. 27(5) pp.2 14-223. Roeder, B.L., Chengappa, M.M., Lechtenberg, K.F., Nagaraja, T.G., & Varga, G.A. (1989). Fusobacterium necrophorum and actinomyces pyogenes associated facial and mandibular abscesses in blue duiker. J. WILDL. DIS.; 25(3):370-377. Sevenich, M. (1995). Guidelines for animal training programs. AZA REGIONAL CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS, pp. I42-I47. Sinander, T.A. (1999). To bag a dik-dik: Another option in small antelope management. ANIMAL KEEPERS’ FORUM. 26(12) pp. 492-496. Taylor, B.A. LACTATION IN THE BLUE DUIKER {Cephalophus monticola): MILK COMPOSITION AND MILK INTAKE BY THE CALF. Master of Science Thesis, Pennsylvania State University, 1988. Thomas, W.D., Barnes, R., Crotty, M., & Jones, M. (1986). An historical overview of selected rare ruminants in captivity. INTERNATIONAL ZOO YEARBOOK, RJ.S. Olney (ed.), London: The Zoological Society of London, 24/25:77-79. Wrenn, T.R., Bitman, J. & Sykes, J.F. (1958). Body temperature variations in dairy cattle during estrous cycle and pregnancy. J. DAIRY SCI. 41:1071. Udell, C. (1981). Breeding the zebra duiker {Cephalophus zebra) at the Los Angeles Zoo. INTERNATIONAL ZOO YEARBOOK, P.J.S.Olney (ed.), London: The Zoological Society of London, 21:155-158. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 27, No. II, 2000 481 CHIPAHGALI WILDLIFE TRUST - ZIMBABWE Duiker and Mini-Antelope Research Programme By Vivan Wilson, Director Chipahgali Wildlife Trust, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe The “Charismatic Megavertebrates” Tens of thousands, in fact millions of dollars are being spent each year on the study and protection of Africa’s more spectacular large game animals, such as Mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants, black rhino, lions, bongo, okapi, etc. These species inspire the European and North American public with their special charisma and the glamour attached to them, and therefore they easily generate funding once they become endangered. More recently thousands of dollars are being donated by generous organizations and people to combat rhino and elephant poaching, to find out more about the illicit rhino horn trade, to carry out leopard and cheetah surveys and to investigate the sale and distribution of elephant ivory and other valuable animal by-products. Even more money goes into the protection of our famous National Parks and Game Reserves, rainforests and other beautiful wildernesses and protected areas of Africa and that is as it should be. All this expenditure is necessary and wonderful for it is money well spent, and will help to save the large mammals of Africa from extinction. In fact, the good work of many dedicated people around the world in favour of conservation of wildlife is to be admired for we should not allow any patch of rainforest or other beautiful areas to disappear from Africa or for that matter from anywhere else on earth. The Non-Spectacular Duikers However, the more I travel around the Africa, the more I am convinced that conservation efforts in respect of the large “charismatic megavertebrates” sometimes ignore the relatively much greater importance for the people of Africa of the smaller mammals, particularly the mini-antelopes and duikers. Very little funding is ever available for research and surveys on these very important animals, because: THE DUIKERS DO NOT GRAB HEADLINES! This is, I am quite certain, a complete lack of realization by many people, organizations and potential donors of the great need for duiker and mini-antelope research and surveys, to establish their conservation status and their economic importance to the local human population in sub-Sahara Africa. The more I visit “bush meat” markets in West and Central Africa, the more I see how important duikers are to thousands of people in many African countries who eat the meat. But all this often goes unnoticed as it has been like this since the beginning of time. Very few people, even in Africa, realize the importance of duiker and mini-antelope meat for the nutrition of the indigenous people in Africa; and as the human population increases, so the daily demand for “bush meat” also grows. Duikers however do not have the wide popular appeal of the large spectacular megavertebrates and consequently do not benefit in the same way from popular support both financially and in other directions. Duikers as a Source of Meat The rural populations of the many developing countries in Africa have historically always relied heavily on wild animals as a source of protein, but it is the duikers which are utilized most widely throughout the continent; other small mammals such as the primates and cane rats are only used to a large extent in certain areas of Africa. The mini-antelopes are exploited 482 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 more and more in many places to a point where several species are on the verge of extinction. The Ogilby’s, Jentink’s and Zebra duikers of West Africa are just three examples. This brings me to the crux of the whole problem. We have to face the fact that the range and numbers of duikers are diminishing despite the particular productivity of this antelope group, and some conservation efforts to halt this decline. It is wrong and economically dangerous to expect the duiker will be occupying their present range indefinitely and will continue to constitute the important animal resource it has been in the past particularly in the moist tropical forest areas. We should remember that the traditional hunting of duikers for meat has been one of the earliest and simplest forms of wildlife utilization in Africa. Even today it remains one of the most important means of obtaining meat over the greater part of Africa south of the Sahara, from the rainforests of Sierra Leone down to Mozambique in east Africa and across to the dry Kalahari desert of Botswana. The ever-increasing demand by the indigenous people of Africa for animal protein is understandable and yet as the human population increases, along with habitat destruction, so does the demand for duiker meat and at the present rate of exploitation there will be very little left by the year 2020. However, even though hunting pressure is increasing at an alarming rate I believe that it is not to late to do something about it, and we should do something about it right now. While some duiker species are already on the verge of extinction, as mentioned above so there are others, such as Grey, Blue and Maxwell’s duikers, which still occur in vast numbers. These species have readily adapted to living in a secondary habitat close to human activity, such as dry and open savanna in the case of the grey duiker, and secondary forest or “farm bush” in the case of the Blue and Maxwell’s duikers. There they are thriving although man has destroyed or altered their primary habitats. Duiker and Mini-Antelope Surveys and Research Although considerable research has been carried out on the grey duiker, which has for example demonstrated this species’ particular productivity under hunting pressure, not a great deal has been done on the other mini-antelope such as oribi, greysbok. Royal antelope and several duiker species. The influence which the rapid change of the forest environment might have on distribution, population status, and numbers, and the effects of increasing hunting pressure on the forest duikers needs to be investigated thoroughly before it is too late and before all the mini-antelopes have disappeared. In order to try and rectify this situation the Pan African Decade of Duiker Research Programme (1985-1994) was launched in 1985 with several main objections: • The distribution and numerical status of the various species of forest duikers in Africa. • The densities at which they occur in many African countries in a wide range of habitat types. • The home range and territorial behaviour of the duikers. • The correct utilization of duikers as “farm-animals” in rural areas and in the wild. • Captive breeding and duiker husbandry and the suitability of duikers for domestication. In short it was necessary to carry out detailed surveys throughout the range of duikers of Africa. These field surveys coupled with breeding and research into captive duiker at the Chipangali Duiker Research and Breeding Centre in Zimbabwe, would not be regarded as a luxury or of only academic interest. Research is of extreme practical importance NOW for it is these small antelope which will be feeding the people in Africa in 20 years time, not the Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 483 large charismatic species. In addition to the 1 0 years ( 1 985- 1 994) of field surveys that were undertaken in over 25 African countries south of the Sahara the Chipangali Duiker Research and Breeding Centre was established in 1985. The field surveys not only included all the forest duikers but the status and distribution of suni, Royal antelope, oribi and several other mini-antelopes was also looked into. Countries covered by field surveys included the following: Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, Ghana Togo, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Malawi and all the Southern African Countries. Full details of this entire programme are now being incorporated into a major book on the duikers of Africa, which is now nearing completion. Duiker Research and Breeding Centre Many of Africa’s duikers have declined dramatically during the last twenty years as a direct result of man’s activities, and several species are now faced with extinction - and yet, until recently, there was nowhere in the world set aside for duiker research and breeding. In 1 985 I set up a Duiker Research and Breeding Center at Chipangali to breed and study duikers and mini-antelope under captive conditions. We established the Centre to achieve a wide range of goals. Part of the project was to determine the difference in behaviour between the various species, to study all aspects of their reproduction, body growth and development, and to determine the suitability of the various species for captive breeding purposes. Many duiker species are extremely rare in the wild and it is therefore advisable to set up captive breeding groups of these rare animals now. At the time of writing, many projects have already been completed and the results incorporated into my book in the duikers of Africa while others will only begin when we have acquired further species of duikers and mini- antelopes. The Duiker Research and Breeding Centre is situated at the Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage some 25km south of Bulawayo, the second largest city of Zimbabwe. The Centre consists of a large number of fenced enclosures for the mini-antelopes, a well-equipped laboratory, an animal nursery, hospital and office accommodation for permanent as well as visiting researchers. Over 50 local Zimbabweans are employed at the facility in addition to a Director, Manager, Administration Staff, Drivers etc. When the Centre was first established in 1985 duikers were imported from Mozambique, South Africa, Malawi, Botswana, Ghana, Ivory Coast and Togo. After a period of five years we had the largest collection of duikers in the world consisting of large groups of Blue and Common duikers, a few pairs of Maxwell’s, red and yellow-backed duikers. We also obtained black, red-flanked and bay duikers from West Africa. In addition to some duikers, the Breeding Centre still has a very large collection of over 20 klipspringer, several pairs of Steinbok and we have recently acquired two breeding pairs of Sharp’s Greysbok. Some of the projects being carried out at the Centre include: dentition studies, gestation periods, composition of duiker’s milk, age of sexual maturity, etc., all of which would not be possible to obtain in the wild. However, the main object of the research in captivity is to determine how successful the various species of duiker would be as “farm animals”. Two years ago the Trustees of the Chipangali Wildlife Trust donated to the newly established Marwell Zimbabwe Trust part of the Chipangali duiker collection which are now housed at the new facilities which are situated near Chipangali and is managed by a Manageress under a Board of Trustees. 484 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 27, No. 11, 2000 Duiker Management at the Houston Zoo By Jim Dobberstine and Phil Coleman Photos by Gregg Wrobleski Large Mammal Department Houston Zoological Gardens, Houston, TX Introduction The Houston Zoo manages three species of duiker, as part of three different mixed species displays. Represented are yellow-backed duiker (Cephalophus sylvicultor), red-flanked duiker {Cephalophus rufilatus), and blue duiker {Cephalophus monticola). This group represents both the largest and smallest species of duiker. All are considered to be forest dwellers in the wild, although the Red-flanked duiker is often less confined to dense forest than the others. Duikers have a varied diet, including fruits, leaves, grasses, insects, and even small mammals and birds (Pfeffercorn, 1998; Rohr, 1997). All of the duiker at the Houston Zoo are managed in individual mixed species exhibits as follows: 1) 1.0 Yellow-backed duiker/ 1.3 Bongo antelope {Tragelaphus eurycerus isaaci) 2) 1 . 1 Red-Flanked duiker/ 1 . 1 Pygmy hippo {Choeropsis liberiensis 3) 2.0 Blue duiker/1 .4 Greater kudu {Tragelaphus strepsiceros)! 1 .3 Nyala antelope {Tragelaphus angasi)/ 0.2 Dorcas gazelle {Gazella dorcas) Each of these combinations represents a different challenge in husbandry and enrichment. Yellow-backed Duiker The yellow-backed duiker was born in January of 1991, and is housed with four bongo antelope. This is a combination that has been done at several other institutions successfully, as detailed in the AZA Antelope TAG Mixed Species Resource Manual. Yellow-backed duiker with six-mont-old bongo antelope Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 485 The exhibit itself is an enclosed yard 60 ft x 140 ft (18.3m x 42.7m), all natural substrate consisting primarily of soil and grass. There are several shade trees in the exhibit. However, the 140 ft length at the front of the exhibit is the public viewing side, which means there are few opportunities for the animals to get out of public view without giving them access to the holding pen behind the exhibit (20 x 100 ft/6. 09m x 30.48m). This animal responds well to food enrichment such as bamboo browse, hackberry browse, and treat items such as bread or bagels. It has been conditioned to shift into the holding area and is rewarded with any of these items or its produce diet, which it eats readily. The duiker is fed a staple diet of ADF 16 pellets, alfalfa hay, and fresh produce that includes apple, carrot, yam, and grapes. It also has access to some coastal bermuda hay, and bovine browser pellets that are a part of the diet offered to the bongo. This duiker has done well in the exhibit with the bongo, even during times when the female bongo has calved (twice since his arrival). It is relatively calm compared to some of the other duiker, and can often be seen lying near the front of the exhibit. It does not seem frightened of the public, but will usually choose an area away from the public viewing fence to lay. When this animal was first put in the exhibit, it would spend the majority of each day hiding behind a tree in one comer of the exhibit where it was not visible to the public. Fortunately, this has changed as it has acclimated to its surroundings and grown to associate with the bongo, which are very tractable and spend large periods right next to the public laying in the shade. It does get frightened of loud noises such as leaf blowers, etc., which are used by the grounds crew, so care must be taken to shift it off-exhibit when possible prior to working in the front of that exhibit. Yellow-backed duiker lying next to the public viewing fence This yellow-backed duiker was captive-born, and hand-reared at the Dallas Zoo. It was transferred to the Houston Zoo from the Dallas Zoo in September of 1998. It has had a vasectomy, but has never been bred. It has not had any significant medical problems in the time that it has been here. Currently, this male is of high breeding priority by the Population Management Plan (PMP), as there is not any importation of yellow-backed duiker at this time. It is hoped that its vasectomy can be reversed, so that it might breed at some point in the future. Plans include acquiring a female yellow-backed duiker from the St. Louis Zoo as a mate in the fall of 2000. 486 Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 Red-flanked Duiker The red-flanked duikers are housed with two pygmy hippopotamus. This is a combination that we believe is unique in the United States. This is a relatively new exhibit, constructed in 1996, that includes a large fresh water pool, and several live plantings, including bamboo and banana trees (Schanberger, 1997). The duiker and hippos each have their own holding areas and indoor sleeping quarters. The duiker holding area is an outdoor pen measuring 20 ft X 30 ft (6.1m X 9.2m), planted with tall grass, and containing a 3 ft x 4 ft (91.5cm x 122cm) “dog house” type shelter. The duiker are given access to the holding area and one of the planters in the exhibit through doorways small enough that the hippos cannot fit through them. This allows the duiker to escape to areas that the hippos cannot access should they need to. They are also fed in these areas, so the hippos cannot eat their food. They are fed a staple diet of ADF 16 pellets and 1 lb. (.5kg) of mixed apples, and carrots per animal each day. Red-flanked duiker with pygmy hippos, small access door shown Both of the red-flanked duiker were captive-born at the Philadelphia Zoo, sired by the same male to different dams. The male was born in October 97, the female in June of 97. Both were parent reared, but have somewhat different personalities. The female is more representative of duiker in general, being easily frightened and flighty. The male is far more socialized toward people, and does not frighten easily. The male will often come right up to the keeper to investigate, and has occasionally done so with the hippos as well. Both are conditioned to shift into the holding area for a produce reward each day, and have become acclimated to being locked in the holding area for periods ranging from overnight up to several days if necessary. Neither animal has had any serious medical problems since having arrived at the zoo. They did breed and produce one female offspring in March of 2000. It had a congenital heart defect (large opening between ventricles), and died at four days. The female was attentive and was seen nursing during that time. Future reproduction plans for this group are currently being reassessed by the Red-flanked Duiker PMP. There is space to hold more females if necessary, until an unrelated animal is imported into the country. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 487 Red-flanked duikers with pygmy hippos on exhibit. As mentioned earlier, this is a very unique exhibit that has worked very well. A lot of time was taken to do introductions between the duiker and hippos. A great deal of care went into preparing the exhibit so that no unplanned holes were in any fences so that there would be no escapes or unplanned introductions. They were initially given visual access only for several weeks. The duikers were then given access to the exhibit during the evenings extinguishers and the exhibit pool was drained. The extinguishers could be used to create a loud noise and startle/distract the hippos in the event of any aggression toward the duiker. Fortunately, there was none. The duikers were cautious regarding the hippos, and the hippos did not show an extraordinary interest in the duiker. The duiker were familiar enough with the exhibit that they did not panic when in close proximity to the hippos, and did make use of the planters and escape routes that were in place for them. It is also believed beneficial that the hippos were a young pair that had not been in the exhibit for two years. Blue Duiker The blue duikers are housed in a large mixed-species exhibit containing greater kudu, nyala antelope, and dorcas gazelle. The exhibit itself started out as two separate exhibits, one for greater kudu and one for nyala antelope. The combined yards measure 140 ft x 70ft (42.7m X 21.3m), plus a 90 ft X 20 ft (27.4m x 6.1m) holding yard behind the exhibit. The fence dividing the exhibit yards has a gate, which allows animals to be moved from one side to the other. It is a very open space of all natural substrate, but does contain a few large oak trees for shade and four enclosed planters witli smaller trees. Each exhibit has a small open- faced bam for shelter from the rain. Much work went into covering and repairing any small holes in the exhibit fencing. The front of this exhibit is 4 inch x 4 inch stock fence, which the duiker could easily slip their heads through, so the bottom three feet was covered in _ inch X 1 inch (1 .26cm x 2.54cm) hardware cloth across the entire front of the exhibit. The kudu and nyala herds were allowed together periodically as a method of enrichment, and were allowed together permanently during the winter of 1998, as the male kudu and male nyala were both young and acclimating well together. The blue duikers were introduced in November of 1999. The dorcas gazelle were moved over from an adjacent yard in the spring of 2000. 488 Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 Both of the blue duikers are males, one born July of 1997, and the other May of 1998. Both were captive-born, parent-reared. One was born at the Woodland Park Zoo, the other at the Virginia Zoological Park. Both of these animals are very easily frightened, more typical for duiker than some of the other species represented at the zoo. The introduction process to each other was very cautious, as there was concern regarding aggression. They were allowed visual access during throughout their quarantine period, and were actually introduced near the end of that period prior to being moved to the exhibit holding area. The introduction to each other went well. There was a little sparring the first day, which resulted in the younger animal running around the enclosure very quickly, complete with some hopping (as high as 2-3 ft), but did not run into any fences. Each animal was interested in exploring the other’s area. Unfortunately, due to space constraints, there was not room to introduce them in a neutral area at the quarantine building, which was a concern, but in actuality did not seem to affect the process. The animals had to be moved to the exhibit holding area before the intros were complete to make space in the quarantine area, so intros were completed in the holding yards. Fortunately, the holding yard is dividable into two spaces. Additionally, one service alley leading into the exhibit, adjacent to the holding yard, was fenced off creating a good howdy area to the kudu/nyala herds. A small doorway Ift wide x 1 1/2 ft (30.5cm x 45.75cm) high was cut in the fence separating the holding yard from the service alley so that the duiker had free access to the holdover, and could be near the kudu/nyala or not per their choice. Intros to each other and to the kudu/nyala herd progressed without problems. The duiker often were observed grooming each other, and spent some time each day out in the howdy area near the exhibit animals. Eventually, a small doorway was cut into the howdy fence with the thought that the duiker could start to explore the exhibit, but still have a safe zone that they were comfortable in. Doorways were also cut into the planter fences for safety zones out in the exhibit. The first few times that they were allowed into the exhibit, the kudu/ nyala herd was shifted to the other half and the connecting gate was closed so that the duiker could become familiar with the exhibit without being harried by the other animals. Intros to the exhibit herd went well, the duiker did not appear frightened of the other animals, although they were cautious and did only venture out into the exhibit for brief periods. Over several weeks as the duiker became more comfortable, the howdy fence was removed, and eventually the doorway back to the holding yard was closed. A small “doghouse” was placed in the holding yard against the fence and an opening was cut in the fence so that the duiker could come and go into their shelter, but not the holding yard. This also allowed the shelter to be hidden from the public. The duikers spend a lot of time in the planters, but are often visible exploring the exhibit. It should be noted that these duikers are very small, and blend in very well with their surroundings. It is very easy to lose them even when they are in plain sight, and it does take some time to train your eye to locate them quickly in a large exhibit. Current plans for these duiker are simply to hold them for exhibit purposes. It is possible that a female could be brought in to breed with one of the males, depending on recommendations from the population manager. Conclusion Duiker species have been a successful and interesting exhibit animal for the Houston Zoo. They are compatible with a variety of other animals, when the exhibit and conspecific introductions are carefully thought out and executed. They are unique in appearance and behavior, adding an interesting contrast to the exhibits that they inhabit. Further, they represent an often-overlooked niche for ungulates, providing a novel educational tool. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 489 2.0 blue duiker shown with greater kudu female References Pfefferkorn, Chris, 1998. AZA North American Regional Studbook for Duikers. Rohr, Linda, 1997. 1997 International Studbook: Yellow-backed Duiker Schanberger, A.; Editor, 1998. AZA Antelope Taxon Advisory Group: Antelope Mixed Species Resource Manual Schanberger, Anita and Diana Weinhardt, 1997. Management of Pygmy Hippopotamus at the Houston Zoological Gardens. AZA Regional Conference Proceedings. pp. 377-381. 490 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 27, No. 11, 2000 Rumen Hypomotility (“Sloshing Syndrome”) in Small Duikers By Terry M. Norton, DVM, Diplomate ACZM Wildlife Conservation Society St. Catherine s Island Wildlife Survival Center There are 18 species of duiker ranging in size from 3. 5-9=0 kg to 45-80 kg (Nowak, 1991). Duikers are found in a variety of habitats, ranging from open country with scattered trees and brush to dense growth of jungle and from swamps to mountain ( Nowak, 1991). Most duikers are nocturnal (Nowak, 1991). Duikers range from being predominantly frugivorous to predominantly folivorous to a combination of the two feeding strategies ( Nowak, 1991). Nutritional analysis performed on items consumed by free ranging duikers indicate that the overall diet is relatively high in fiber and low in carbohydrate when compared to diets typically fed in captivity (Unpublished information, Duiker Workshop, St. Catherine’s Island, 2000). Duikers are considered to be primitive ruminants with a much faster gastrointestinal transit time and significant cecal fiber fermentation when compared to other ruminant species (Conklin-Brittain et al, 1996; Willette Frahm, 1999). “Sloshing Syndrome” or rumen hypomotility syndrome is a poorly documented problem that occurs in several species of small duiker. It is unclear whether this problem is related to “duiker wasting syndrome”, also a poorly understood disease entity which occurs primarily in large duiker species (Frahm, 1999). “Sloshing syndrome” has been a problem in a group of Maxwell’s duiker (Cephalophus maxwelli) housed at St. Catherine’s Island Wildlife Survival Center (SCI WSC) over the past two years. Much of the following information has been obtained from experiences from this herd. Clinical signs of this disorder may be noted in a single individual or an entire group. A “sloshing” sound occurs when the animal makes sudden movements and is often the first sign that there is a problem. It is suspected that this sound occurs when the normal rumen motility is decreased, and subsequently fluid and gas build up. Duiker feces are normally pelleted; however, with this condition they can range from “dog-like” to “clumpy” to normal. Feces in one individual duiker may be normal in the morning and abnormal in the afternoon. When the condition becomes more advanced, gas builds up in the rumen resulting in bloating. If left untreated, this may result in death. Common abnormalities found on blood work include mildly low serum calcium, moderately to severely elevated serum phosphorous, and an elevated serum globulin level. Serum copper levels have been low in some animals and normal in others when compared to levels in free-ranging duikers (Karesh et al, 1995), Copper deficiency has resulted in a light and “kinky” haircoat and possibly abortion in the Maxwell duikers at the SCI WSC. Rumen fluid is collected for analysis by inserting a tube into the rumen under manual restraint. Small sample size often limits the diagnostics that can be performed. Rumen fluid pH ranges from 6 to 7 in the Maxwell duikers at SCI WSC. The normal protozoal flora has been reported in captive blue duikers and consists of predominantly large ciliated protozoa of the species Entodinium dubardi (Dehority, 1994). The protozoal flora in affected Maxwell’s duikers has ranged from normal to an overall decrease in numbers of ciliates to Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 491 increases in abnonnal protozoans such as flagellates. Investigations are underway to establish normal values for rumen fluid parameters in captive duikers (Duiker Workshop, St. Catherine’s Island, 2000). Postmortem examination on one Maxwell’s duiker that died from advanced stages of this problem revealed pathology consistent with carbohydrate overload, a relatively common condition in domestic ruminants. Prevention and treatment of this condition at the SCI WSC has emphasized dietary modification. Several institutions have reported clinical improvement when affected animals were switched to Mazuri® Browser Breeder pelleted diet. However, this does not totally eliminate the problem. Providing a variety of browse, leafy greens, and higher fiber vegetables appears to be beneficial. Copper supplementation is recommended and appears to be helpful when serum copper levels are low. Minimizing access to grass may prove useful. Severely bloated animals have responded to regular stomach tubing to remove excess gas, antibiotics, and motility modifying drugs such as cisapride and/or metaclopromide. Despite all of these changes in the duikers at SCI WSC, clinical signs are still present but have improved. Although the exact cause of this syndrome remains unknown, it is thought to be multifactorial in origin. Future research that may assist in determining a cause, treatment, and prevention for this syndrome will include development of a pelleted diet more suitable for duikers, development of improved husbandry practices, evaluation of copper metabolism and interactions with other nutrients, evaluation of calcium/phosphorous/vitamin D metabolism, and establishment of normal rumen fluid analysis. References Conklin-Brittain NL, Dierenfeld ES. 1 996. Small ruminants: digestive capacity, diffferences among four species weighing less than 20 kg. Zoo Biol 15: 481-490. Dohority BA, 1994. Rumen ciliate protozoa of the blue duiker (Cephalophus monticola), with observations on morphological variation lines within the species Entodinium dubardi, J. Euk. Microbiol., 41(2), pp. 103-111. Frahm Willette, M, 1999. Medical Management of Duikers. In: Zoo and Wild Animal Medicine, Current Therapy 4, WB Saunders Co., Fowler and Miller, ed. Pp 668-681. Karesh WB, Hart JA, Hart TB et al, 1995. Health evaluation of five sympatric duiker species {Cephalophus spp). JZWM 26(4): 485-502. Nowak RM,. 1991. Walker’s Mammals of the World, Fifth Edition, Volume II. The Johns Hopkins University Press. Pp. 1434-1435. 492 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 Mixed Species Management Involving Cephalophinae By Anita Schanberger and Lisa Fitzgerald Mammal Department Dallas Zoo, Dallas, TX Introduction Many zoological institutions are investigating multi-species exhibits to promote efficient utilization of space. Information regarding historical and current antelope mixed species management has been somewhat limited. The Antelope Taxon Advisory Group distributed surveys requesting information regarding mixed species antelope management to AZA in- stitutions. Information from the survey was compiled and published as a mixed species resource manual in September of 1 998 (Schanberger, 1 998). The manual contains informa- tion regarding species involved in mixed exhibits, social groupings, exhibit size, introduc- tion procedures, compatibility issues, and management results. The purpose of this article is to present information from the manual addressing mixed species management involving duikers. Natural History Of the 18 species of duikers, all are forest dwellers with the exception of the common duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia). The common, or gray duiker inhabits more arid habitat and displays a different morphology. The remaining 17 species are grouped under the same genus, Cephalophus. Every indigenous African forest is inhabited by at least one species of duiker. The forest duikers are not well studied, but are believed to exist on a mixed diet of fruits, seeds, flowers, shoots, leaves, bark, fungi, and occasional birds, rodents, insects, and carrion. Many of the food items eaten by duikers are dislodged from overhead vegetation by other animals, such as primates, rodents, bats, and birds. Duikers are thought to be either monogamous or solitary, and some species are known to display territoriality. Scent mark- ing and allogrooming are both important social behaviors performed by duikers. Activity varies by species, some being nocturnal, some diurnal, and some crepuscular. Birth is given to a single calf which spends the first few weeks hiding. Calves generally disperse from the natal territory at one year or more, depending on the species. (Kingdon, 1982; Ralls and Kranz, 1987) Species Involved in Mixed Exhibits Results of the North America survey indicate that eight species of duiker have successfully been integrated into various mixed species combinations (Table 1). These species include; bay duiker {Cephalophus dorsalis), black duiker {Cephalophus niger), blue duiker {Cephalophus monticola), crown duiker {Sylvicapra grimmia caffrd), Maxwell’s duiker {Cephalophus maxwelli), red-flanked duiker {Cephalophus rufilatus), yellow-backed duiker {Cephalophus sylvicultor), and zebra duiker {Cephalophus zebra). Most of the mixed species combinations involve other antelope species including; bongo, greater kudu, lesser kudu, gerenuk, and nyala. The antelope species that was most frequently combined with yellow- backed duiker was bongo. Bongo were also successfully combined with black duiker, blue duiker, and crown duiker. Other species that resulted in successful mixed combinations included okapi, crowned lemurs, pygmy hippo, bat-eared fox, and various storks and cranes. Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 493 Table 1 - North American Mixed Exhibits - Cephalopinae Species Combinations Institution Exhibit size Comments Bay Duiker Kirk’s dik dik Ellen Trout Zoo 48 ft X 32 ft Successful Lesser kudu San Diego Wild Animal Paric ‘ 200 ft X 130 ft Successful Nyala & KlipsprinRer San Diego Wild Animal Park 200 ft X 130 ft Duiker did well with plenty of hiding places. Black Duiker Bushbuck Los Angeles Zoo 55 ftx 110ft Male bushbuck aggressive. Females are compatible. White stork Miami Metro Zoo 1/5 acre Successful BonRO Miami Metro Zoo 1.5 acres Successful Blue Duiker BonRO & cranes San Antonio Zoo NA Successful SitatunRa & cranes Virginia Zoo 2/3 acre Successful Crown Duiker BonRO . Miami Metro Zoo 1.5 acres Successful Gerenuk Miami Metro Zoo 1 acre Successful Maxwell’s Duiker Okapi San Diego Wild Animal Park 1 5,000 sq ft Works well. Provide plenty of hides. Mhorr gazelle San Diego Wild Animal Park 15,000 sqft Works well. Provide plenty of hides for duiker. Red-flanked Duiker Pygmy hippo Houston Zoo NA Successful Greater RalaRos Los Angeles Zoo 17 ftx 80 ft Animals compatible. Several bird species Oregon Zoo NA Animals compatible. Yellow-backed Duiker Bongo Cincinnati Zoo 100 ftx 50 ft Very successful. Bongo. Gerenuk, Lesser kudu, birds Columbus Zoo _acre Combination has worked great. Bongo, Bat-eared fox Los Angeles Zoo 180 ftx 55 ft Great display. Greater kudu, SprinRbok Los Angeles Zoo 180 ftx 90 ft Male springbok too aggressive. Bongo St. Louis Zoo 120ftx 112ft Not entirely successful. Male bongo is terrified of male duiker. Okapi San Diego Wild Animal Park NA Successful Bongo San Diego Wild Animal Park 200 ftx 130 ft Successful Zebra Duiker Talapoin guenons Los Angeles Zoo NA Guenons became aggressive with the male duiker. Crowned lemur Los Angeles Zoo 17ft X 80 ft Successful Introductions The general process for introduction procedures seemed to focus on several key issues. Most institutions reported that they allowed each species an opportunity to become completely familiar with the exhibit prior to adding additional species. Visual access was also provided in most cases prior to the actual introduction. Most institutions also commented on the 494 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 importance of providing as many hide areas as possible for the duikers. Compatibility Issues Information from the survey presented 24 mixed species exhibit combinations involving duiker. Only four of these combinations resulted in significant intra-species conflict. One combination involved a breeding group of harnessed bushbuck housed with a breeding group of black duiker. The male bushbuck demonstrated very aggressive behavior toward the female duikers and the keepers. He was removed from the exhibit. The female bushbuck and female duiker are compatible and continue to share an enclosure. Another problematic combination involved a breeding group of greater kudu, a breeding group of springbok, and a male yellow-backed duiker. The male springbok was aggressive to the other species. The male yellow-backed duiker consumed springbok neonates. A hand-raised male yellow-backed duiker presented some conflict in a combination that included a breeding group of bongo and a breeding pair of yellow-backed duiker. For some reason the male bongo was terrified of the male yellow-backed duiker. This combination has not been determined to be completely successful. A combination involving zebra duiker and a group of talapoin guenons initially was successful. The two species were compatible for several months before the talapoins became aggressive with the male duiker. The talapoins were eventually removed from the exhibit. European Management Although there are a limited number of duikers presently held in European zoos (Frank Rietkerk, personal communication), some mixed species combinations utilizing duikers have been created (Table 2). Reports of combinations including bongo, douroucoulis , sloths, kangaroos, and wallabies have been made. Historically, one institution has kept duikers with ruffed lemurs (Koen Brouwer, personal communication). One European zoo is considering housing duiker with colobus monkeys, and another is investigating mixing them with pygmy hippos. Table 2 - Duikers in European Collections SDeciet CoDibiiatioDi InidtutioR Blue Duiker Douroucoulis Antwerp Sloths Antwerp Kannaroos Asson. k Private Institutions Wallabies Asson, ^Private Institutions Blue/Mixweil Duiker hybridi Bongo Arnhem Ruffed lemurs/solitary Artis (Amsterdam) Solitary Rotterdam Solitary Krefcld Solitary Stuttgart Yellow*Bicked Duiker Solitary Wuppertal Nitil Red Duiker Unknown Dresden Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 27, No. 11, 2000 495 Conclusion Duikers have been successfully displayed in mixed species exhibits of various sizes. More information on mixed species use of duikers will be collected from North American institutions through Antelope TAG surveys to update the North American database. Additional infomiation is being sought from international institutions, including Asian zoos. One goal of the April 2000 workshop held on Husbandry, Nutrition, and Health of Captive Duikers at St. Catherine’s Wildlife Survival Center was to promote duikers as an excellent candidate for mixed species displays. Duikers in the wild co-exist, and may have dietary ecological dependencies, with other species (Kindgon, 1982). The varying sizes of duiker species offers captive managers many options to consider when looking for suitable animals for mixed species exhibits (Thomas & Maruska, 1 996). As a prime bushmeat target, duikers also present an excellent opportunity to discuss this important conservation issue with our zoo visitors. Acknowledgements The authors wish to thank Frank Rietkerk , Bart Hiddinga, Marc Damen, Koen Brouwer, and Amy Plowman for information on duikers in European zoos. References Kingdon, J. 1982. East African Mammals: an Atlas of Evolution in Africa. Volume III C (Bovids). University of Chicago Press:Chicago. Ralls, K. and K. Kranz. 1987. Duikers, pp. 556-557 in: The Encyclopedia of Mammals (Ed. D. Macdonald). Facts on File Publications:New York. Schanberger, A. 1998. Antelope Mixed Species Resource Manual. Antelope Taxon Advisory Group. Thomas, W.D. and E.J. Maruska. 1996. Mixed-species exhibits with mammals pp. 204- 211 in: Wild Mammals in Captivity. Principles and Techniques tEds. D.G. Kleiman, M.E. Allen, K.V. Thompson, and S. Lumpkin).. The University of Chicago Press:Chicago. 496 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol 27, No. 11, 2000 Duikers: A Primary Target for Africa’s Bushmeat Trade By Heather E. Eaves'^ Bushmeat Crisis Task Force 8403 Colesville Rd., Ste. 710, Silver Springs, MD 20910 Abstract Duikers (Cephalophus spp.) are one of the primary targets for both subsistence and commercial hunting activities in many regions of Africa. With a limited understanding of duiker life histories in natural habitats and the difficulties of conducting monitoring activities, conservationists are challenged to determine the ecological effects of commercial bushmeat hunting on both duiker populations and the ecosystems in which they live. Current research indicates that duikers typically supply 40-80% of the meat available in bushmeat markets across Central Africa. In West Africa, years of commercial-level exploitation coupled with habitat loss have resulted in considerably reduced duiker populations in many areas. Projections for duiker populations in the long-term suggest dramatically decreasing trends for the majority of species. Addressing the bushmeat trade should involve approaches that include all species effected - from rodents to elephants, and should pay particular attention to Africa’s duikers as a group of primary importance to both present and future generations of Africans. Duikers in Africa: Duikers are generally small-sized (5-20 kg) antelope, but members of some species can attain 80 kg (Nowak, 1991). They are primarily frugivorous but also browse selectively and occasionally take animal matter in the form of insects (Bodmer, 1990; Hanekom and Wilson, 1991; Peer, 1995; Noss,1995). They usually reproduce annually having one young per year (gestation 120-245 days depending on species), and they may have a life span of approximately 8-10 years (Noss, 1995). They are solitary and territorial with territory sizes ranging from 2. 5-4.0 ha for the smaller blue duiker (C. monticola) to 40 ha (Peter’s duiker, [C. callipygus]), and 79 ha (bay duiker, [C. dorsalis]) for some red duiker species (Noss 1995) . Some species are diurnal and others nocturnal (Nowak, 1991). Mortality is lower for blue duiker than for larger duiker species in the first two years of life (27% vs >70%) (Lahm,1993). The life histories of duikers are relatively unstudied in natural conditions because they are difficult to observe for long periods in forest environments. However, they follow the general patterns of forest animals including small body size, short horns, frugivorous diet, and small group size (Dubost,1983). Their vocalizations are typical of forest mammals. In addition to several types of contact calls, whistles, and blowing sounds, duikers emit an uncharacteristic terror call, which is believed to maintain some social importance (Dubost,1983) and which is used by both hunters and scientists to call in duikers (Fay et al. in prep). Ecologically, duikers play an important role in the diet of certain tropical forest predator species including leopard (Panther a pardus) and golden cat (Felis aurata) (Hart et al, 1996) . Peer (1995) found 150 different species of fruit among the rumen contents of duikers, which suggests that they may play an important role as seed dispersal agents of species producing seeds in the 1-2 cm range. Muscular development limits the type and size of seeds that can be effectively consumed (Dubost,1983). White (1994) suggested that in Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 497 some cases duikers might actually be in competition with elephants for limited fruit resources. Given that tropical forest vertebrate communities contain high densities of frugivorous mammals (White, 1994), one would expect competition among species to play a role in influencing behavioral and physiological adaptations. Duiker species found in similar forest types have been found to differ in activity patterns {i.e. nocturnal vs. diurnal) and in the diversity of food selection (Peer, 1989). Duikers are found throughout sub-Saharan Africa with the majority of species being found in the forested regions of West and Central Africa (Table 1). Despite their widespread range, nearly all species of duiker are currently projected to decline considerably in the near future, while several species are currently considered on the brink of extinction if immediate protection measures are not put into effect (East and lUCN/SSC/ASG 1999). Some species are highly dependent on undisturbed forest habitats and the viability of their populations in the long-temi will be determined by protected area quantity and quality of protection. Bushmeat in Africa The bushmeat trade across Africa has rapidly evolved over the years from a subsistence/ semi-commercial trade to a multi-billion dollar industry. The dramatic expansion of the bushmeat trade has been facilitated by numerous factors including: development of road networks and industrial infrastructure (logging, mining, oil), market declines in other sectors {e.g. agricultural), increasing human population pressures, lack of incentive to develop alternatives, minimal monitoring and enforcement capacity, and decreases in household economic security. The potentially negative ecological and social impacts of this commercial bushmeat trade are evidenced by numerous recent scientific reports confirming that (a) there is a significant, largely illegal, commercial exploitation of wildlife occurring around the globe; and (b) current levels of exploitation are unsustainable and threaten the future of numerous wildlife populations and the people dependent on them (Robinson and Bennett 2000). The global community has recently begun to draw attention to the bushmeat crisis through a variety of collective efforts - including governments, non-governmental organizations, industry, and a cross-sector of experts and professionals (BCTF 2000). Attention is being focused by many of these efforts on the African continent where the crisis is particularly acute. The increase in roads and other transportation networks have been an important factor in the development of the commercialization of the bushmeat trade. (Photo: r.g. Ruggiero) 498 Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 Table 1. Summary of duiker species in Africa including Red List Status, location, estimated total population numbers and projected future status (compiled from East and lUCN/SSC/ASG 1999) Specks COMMON NAME RED LIST LOCATION ESTIMATED TOTAL FUTURE Cephalophus maxwellii Maxwell’s Duiker LR(nt) West Africa 2,137,000 Resists some hunting pressure Cephalophus moniicola Blue Duiker LR(lc) Central Africa (also E. and SE) 7,000,000 Resists some hunting pressure Cephalophus adersi Ader’s Duiker Endangered Kenya, Tanzania <1,400 Most threatened amelope - risks extinction Cephalophus dorsalis Bay IXiiker (nocturnal) LR/{nt) West and Central Africa 725,000 Relies on undisturbed forest/ protected area status Cephalophus callipygus Peters’ Duiker LR(nt) Central (and East Africa - Weyns’ subspecies) 570,000 Likely to be eliminated where hunting pressure high, only 18% of range protected. Cephalophus leucogaster White-bellied Duiker LR(m) Central Africa 287,000 Highly susceptible to hunting pressures, oidy 20% of range protected. Cephalophus ogilbyi Ogilby’s Duiker LR(nt) West and West/Central Africa 35,000 Highly susceptible to overhunting, requires undisturbed areas. Cephalophus nigrifrons Black-fronted Duiker LR (nt) Central and Central/East Africa 300,000 Susceptible to over hunting, only 12% of range protected. Cephalophus harveyi Harvey’s Red Duiker LR(cd) East Africa 20,000 Dependent on protected areas. Cephalophus natalensis Natal Red Duiker LR(cd) South-East Africa 42,000 Dependent on protected areas. Cephalophus niger Black Duiker LR (nt) West Africa 100,000 Can withstand some hunting and disturbance but will require protected areas and hunting controls for long- term survival Cephalophus rufilatus Red-flanked Duiker LR(cd) West and Northem/Central Africa 170,000 Can withstand some hunting pressure though long-term survival dependent on protected areas. Cephalophus zebra Zebra Duiker Vulnerable West Africa (limited) 28,000 Dependent on protected areas and control of hunting (particularly in Tai and Sapo National Parks) Cephalophus spadix Abbott’s Duiker Vulnerable Tanzania 2,500 Dependent on protected areas (particularly Udzungwa Mountains NP and Kilimanjaro NP and FR) Cephalophus syMcultor Yellow-backed Duiker LR (nt) West and Central Africa 160,000 Trend generally declining populations, dependent on protected areas. Cephalophus jerttinki Jentink’s Duiker Vulnerable West Africa (limited) 3,500 Dependent on primary forest and protected areas. Syhhcapra grimmia Grey Duiker LR (Ic) Sub-Saharan Africa 1,660,000 Likely to remain abundant thou^ can be effected by overhunting. LR ” Lower Risk; (Ic) least concern; (nt) - near threatened; (cd) conservation dependent * 1 3,24 1 ,400 Duikers and the African Bushmeat Trade A number of scientific studies have been carried out in recent years to determine the importance of duikers to different types of communities in Central Africa (Lahm,1993; Steel, 1994; White, 1994; Noss,1995; Eves,1996; WCS,1996; Auzel and Wilkie,2000; Hart,2000). These studies, and numerous others, describe the significant role duikers play in the livelihoods of African communities - largely through their use in the bushmeat trade. Being easily huntable with either gun or cable snare, easily transportable by foot, and having a sufficient quantity of meat to be highly profitable - duikers are a preferred species for the bushmeat trade. Unfortunately, much of the hunting for duikers is carried out using methods, Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 499 such as wire snares, which cause damage not only to the duikers but also to many other species in the forest, some of which are endangered or threatened (Noss,1998). An understanding of overall bushmeat trade dynamics, hunter offtake for commercial and subsistence trade, as well as appropriate estimates of duiker density and population dynamics, are key elements immediately needed to establish effective conservation management programs. Lahm (1993) found duikers made up an average 70% of available bushmeat in Gabon’s Makokou market. Research conducted by Noss ( 1 998) indicated that in the Bayanga region of the Central African Republic, 60% of hunting captures were of two duiker species alone. Caspary (1999) estimated over 2.5 million duiker are harvested annually in Cote d’Ivoire. Auzel and Wilkie (2000) determined over 80% of captures in some villages associated with a logging concession were duikers. Eves and Ruggiero (2000) determined that 70% of prey in a Congo hunting study were duikers. These are just a few examples from the literature that demonstrate the scale of hunting and enormous role that duikers play in the commercial bushmeat trade. Noss (1998) reports the highly negative impact cable snare hunting has on wildlife populations: . . over one-fourth of animals killed in snares are lost to scavengers and decomposition; two in five captured animals escape with injuries” (page 396). Muchaal and Ngandjui (1999) found in Cameroon’s Dja Reserve that snare wastage during the dry season when hunter visitation of snare lines was highest varied according to distance from the village (5.7% at < 10 km and 28.5% at> 30 km from the village) but pointed out that in some seasons wastage in the farther zones from the village were as high as 94%. Distance from village appears to be a major factor in densities of larger species of duiker; blue duiker appear to be able to withstand certain levels of hunting and other forms of human disturbance (Wilkie and Finn, 1990; Lahm, 1993; WCS,1996; Eves and Ruggiero, 2000). Despite this, many populations are at risk of local or ecological extinction due to excessively high offtake rates and this unnecessary wastage (Hart 2000). With their relatively low reproductive rates and their territorial behavior patterns, it is unlikely that most forest duiker species are suitable candidates for husbandry. The most efficient means of producing both the red and blue forest duikers, particularly important to the future of indigenous forest communities, would appear the assurance of undisturbed habitat across their range to facilitate Duikers are preferred by many hunters as, in addition to the quality of the meat, most species are easily transported and provide a high economic rate of return for hunting effort. (Photo: H.E. Eaves) Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 the source-sink dynamic of production with closely monitored and controlled offtake (Hart, 2000). Wilkie and Carpenter (1999) provide an extensive review of duikers and the bushmeat trade in the Congo Basin concluding that the majority of duiker hunting for the bushmeat trade is unsustainable. They estimated the average harvest rate for duikers in the Congo Basin (97 kg/kmVyr) and determined this exceeds the 40% of production rate recommended for sustainable harvest (Robinson and Redford, 1 994) - estimated production rate: 1 70 kg/kmV yr; 40% production rate: 68 kg/kmVyr. These figures, determined by Wilkie and Carpenter (1999) are based on figures from currently available data for duiker density and production rates in the wild. It is not necessary to have more rigorous scientific studies to determine if current bushmeat hunting is sustainable, however, such studies will be essential in developing long-term wildlife management programs that will be part of developing effective solutions to the current bushmeat crisis {i.e. in order to determine appropriate estimates in each locality for sustainable harvests of duiker and other wildlife improved research methods and monitoring capacity will be essential). The proliferation of snare hunting throughout Africa has resulted in highly unsustainable levels of exploitation. Duikers are a particular target of snare hunters though many other species are killed or injured when they are caught in snares. Some studies have identified snare wastage as high as 94% (where animals are lost to scavengers or decomposition before hunters can recover the bodies). Photo shows Ecoguards recovering snares. (Photo: R. G. Ruggiero) The majority of bushmeat studies conducted to date involve market surveys. A significant number of these surveys throughout Central Africa have determined that duikers {Cephalophus spp.) comprise the majority (40-80%) of meat sold in bushmeat markets ((Bowen-Jones, 1 998; Chardonnet and Fritz, 1 995). Many of the same studies report quantities of great apes found in bushmeat markets to be considerably less (<1 % of individual carcasses, <3% of total biomass). It is interesting to note the majority of media attention, however, (an estimated 60% of printed stories and 75% of television news and video production) has Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 501 Animals are often brought to market bound but still alive. Fresh meat is often sold for higher prices than more frequently available smoked and dried ver- sions of bushmeat. (Photo: R.G. Ruggiero) been focused on the great apes. A decade ago, one of the world’s leading experts on duiker, Mr. Vivian Wilson, made a valiant effort to draw world attention to Africa’s duikers and sent out a massive appeal for funding to address duikers and the bushmeat trade (Wilson and Roth, 1990). That appeal unfortunately met with limited response. Ten years later, there are reports of duiker populations becoming considerably reduced and in some cases locally extinct. Wilson and Roth (1990) make the important point in this appeal “...the more we travel around Africa, the more we are convinced that conservation efforts in respect of the large ‘charismatic megavertebrates’ ignore the relatively much greater importance for the people of Africa of the smaller mammals, particularly the duikers... because: THE DUIKERS DO NOT GRAB HEADLINES”. Will it be necessary to use terminology that links these unique and highly important animals to more popular culture to engage sufficient interest regarding the plight of Africa’s duikers? If one forgives the obvious incorrect linkage of antelope and deer, will we be required to call the duiker “Africa’s Bambi” in order for the world to take note? The evidence suggests that duikers are not only one of the most significant mammal groups hunted and sold for the bushmeat trade in West and Central Africa, but they are also an indicator of the state of biodiversity in the forests of these regions as well as the ‘age’ of the bushmeat market. The quantity of duiker available in bushmeat markets can be used as an indicator of the status of populations in the wild; the ratio of duikers to rodents shifts after areas supplying markets have been heavily harvested (Juste et a/., 1995; Wilkie and Carpenter, 1999). The threat to Africa’s predator populations caused by dramatic declines in their prey base has been suggested to be significant (Hart et a/., 1996). Without the duikers we risk losing leopard, golden cat, and numerous other species likely to be affected by the shifting dynamics. In addition, scientists can only suggest what might be the effects of losing these important frugivores to the structure, and therefore function, of Africa’s forests. Conservationists have long recognized the importance of examining not only the ecological importance but also the economic and social importance of wildlife to communities (Robinson 502 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 Although a number of studies have reported the relative resilience of blue duiker to certain levels of exploitation, there is a limit to the amount of hunting that even this species can withstand before populations become locally threatened. (Photo: R.G. Ruggiero) and Redford,1994; Fa et al,. 1995; Fitzgibbon et al,. 1995). Rural communities are highly dependent on forest resources for both nutritional and economic subsistence (Lahm,1993; Noss, 1995; Eves, 1996; WCS, 1996). Lahm (1993) found that 47% of men sampled used bushmeat as either their sole or a supplemental form of income. WCS ( 1 996) found that the majority of hunters sampled (65%) among those operating in the Lobeke region of Cameroon to be former employees of logging companies; 98% reported depending on bushmeat as both a primary source of income and for food, though only 10% of the meat was actually used for private consumption. WCS (1996) suggested that the repeated pattern of high offtake, which is ostensibly unsustainable, results in hunted populations being re-supplied by individuals migrating in from adjacent non-hunted areas. Source-sink models have been proposed to explain the distribution of duikers in habitats with different use regimes. As development of the logging industry continues throughout the region, it is likely that undisturbed habitat will diminish further. Due to the increase in degraded habitats, game populations that have been able to tolerate even commercial hunting levels may lose that capacity due to habitat degradation (Doak,1995). These results indicate the importance of duikers to Africa’s people and ecosystems. The long-term conservation of duiker populations across Africa, however, will benefit from additional research and action which address the critically important major factors influencing the commercial bushmeat trade including: ecological (production, growth rates, response to hunting, role in forest ecology, etc.); social (cultural significance, ownership and land-use rights, linkages with traditional medicines and beliefs, role of hunter and hunting decision- making within communities); and economic (linkages with other income activities, demand and supply dynamics, effects of alternatives, etc.) factors. Without investments in such cross-sectoral research and monitoring, it is almost certain that the future of duiker populations in Africa is in question and that future generations of Africans will suffer nutritionally, culturally and economically. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 503 Bibliography Auzel, P. and D.S. Wilkie. 2000. Wildlife use in northern Congo: hunting in a commercial logging concession. Pages 413-426. In J.G. Robinson and E.L. Bennett (eds./ Hunting for Sustainability in Tropical Forests. Columbia University Press, New York. BCTF. 2000. The Bushmeat Crisis Task Force Online Information Packet and Research Archive. BCTF. Silver Spring, MD . Bodmer, R.E. 1990. Ungulate frugivores and the browser-grazer continuum. Oikos 57:319 325. Bowen-Jones, E. 1998. A Review of the Commercial Bushmeat Trade with Emphasis on Central/ West Africa and the Great Apes. Report for the Ape Alliance. Fauna & Flora International, Cambridge, UK. Caspary, H.U. 1999. Wildlife utilization in Cote d’Ivoire and West Africa - potentials and constraints for development cooperation. Tropical Ecology Support Program. Ecological Economics. TOB publication no.: TOB F-V/lOe. GTZ, Eschbom, Germany. Chardonnet, P. and H. Fritz. 1995. Chasse traditionelle. Pages 88-125. In. Faune Sauvage Africaine La Ressource Oubliee. Tome I. Commission Europeenne. Luxembourg: Office des publications officielles des Communautes europpeennes. 416 Pages. Doak, D.F. 1995. Source-sink models and problem of habitat degradation: general models and applications to the Yellowstone grizzly. Conservation Biology 9(6): 1370-1379. Dubost, G. 1983. Le comportement de Cephalophus monticola Thunberg et C. dorsalis Gray, et la place des cephalophes au sein des ruminants. Mammalia 47(3): 141-177. East, R. 1999. African Antelope Database 1998. lUCN/SSC Antelope Specialist Group. Occasional Paper of the lUCN Species Suvival Commission No. 21. lUCN, Gland, Switzerland and Cambridge, UK. X + 434pp. Eves, H.E. 1996. Socioeconomic Study 1996: Nouabale-Ndoki National Park, Congo. Consultants Report Submitted to the Wildlife Conservation Society and The World Bank (Global Environment Facility). WCS, New York. Eves, H.E. and R.G. Ruggiero. 2000. Socioeconomics and the sustainability of hunting in the forests of northern Congo (Brazzaville). Pages 427-454. In J.G. Robinson and E.L. Bennett (eds.). Hunting for Sustainability in Tropical Forests. Columbia University Press, New York. Fa, J.E., J. Juste, J.P. Del Val, and J. Castroviejo. 1995. Impact of market hunting on mammal species in Equatorial Guinea. Conservation Biology 9(5): 1 107-1 115. Fay, J.M., S. Blake, B. Hennessey, and R.G. Ruggiero, in prep. Toward using playback response as a duiker census technique in central African forests. Wildlife Conservation Society- Nouabale-Ndoki National Park Project. Bronx, New York. Peer, F. 1989. Comparison des regimes alimentaires de Cephalophus callipygus et C. dorsalis, bovides sympatriques de la foret sempervirente africaine. Mammalia 53(4):563-604. Feer, F. 1 995. Seed dispersal in African forest ruminants. Journal of Tropical Ecology 1 1 :683-689. Fitzgibbon, C.D., H. Mogaka, and J.H. Fanshaw. 1995. Subsistence hunting in Arabuko-Sokoke Forest, Kenya, and its effects on mammal populations. Conservation Biology 9(5): 1 1 16- 1126. 504 Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 Hanekom, N. and V. Wilson, 1991. Blue dmkQX Philantomba monticola densities in the Tsitisikamma National Park and probable factors limiting these populations. Koedoe 34(2): 107- 120. Hart, J.A. 2000. Impact and sustainability of indigenous hunting in the Ituri forest, Congo-Zaire; a comparison of unhunted and hunted duiker populations. Pages 106-153. In J.G. Robinson and E.L. Bennett (eds.). Hunting for Sustainability in Tropical Forests. Columbia University Press, New York. Hart, J.A., M.Katembo, and K. Punga. 1996. Diet, prey selection and ecological relations of leopard and golden cat in the Ituri Forest, Zaire. African Journal of Ecology 34:364-379. Juste, J., J.E. Fa, J. P del Val, and J. Castoviejo. 1995. Market dynamics of bushmeat species in Equatorial Guinea. Journal of Applied Ecology 32:454-467. Lahm, S.A. 1993. Ecology and economics of human/wildlife interaction in northeastern Gabon. Ph.D. Dissertation. New York University. Muchhaal, RK. and G. Ngandjui. Impact of village hunting on wildlife populations in the Western Dja Reserve, Cameroon. Conservation Biology 13(2):385-396. Noss, A.J. 1995. Duikers, cables and nets: a cultural ecology of hunting in a central African forest. Ph.D. Dissertation. University of Florida. Noss, A.J. 1998. The impacts of cable snare hunting on wildlife populations in the forests of the Central African Republic. Conservation Biology 12(2):390-398. Nowak, R.M. 1991. Walker’s Mammals of the World. Fifth edition. Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore, Maryland, USA. Robinson, J.G. and E. L. Bennett. 2000. Hunting for Sustainability in Tropical Forests. Columbia University Press, New York. 582 pages. Robinson, J.G. and K.H. Redford. 1994. Measuring the sustainability of hunting in tropical forests. Oryx 28(4):249-256. Steel, E.A. 1994. Study of the Value and Volume of Bushmeat Commerce in Gabon. Unpublished Report. WWF, Gabon. WCS. 1996. The Lobeke Forest Southeast Cameroon Summary of Activities Period 1988-1995. Wildlife Conservation Society Project Report. Wildlife Conservation Society, Bronx, New York, USA. White, L.J.T. 1994. Biomass of rain forest mammals in the Lope Reserve, Gabon. Journal of Animal Ecology 63:499-512. Wilkie, D. S. and J. F. Carpenter. 1999. Bushmeat hunting in the Congo Basin: an assessment of impacts and options for mitigation. Biodiversity and Conservation 8:927-955. Wilkie, D.S. and J.T. Finn. 1990. Slash-bum cultivation and mammal abundance in the Ituri Forest, Zaire. Biotropica 22(l):90-99. Wilson, V.J. and H.H. Roth. 1990. Why the Indigenous People of Africa Need Duikers: An Appeal for Funding. Pan African Decade of Duiker Research (1985-1 994). Chipangali Wildlife Tmst, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. *Contact Information: Bushmeat Crisis Task Force, 8403 Colesville Road, Suite 710, Silver Spring, MD 20910, TEL: 301.706.6028, FAX: 301.562.0888, Email: info@bushmeat.org Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 505 Vasectomy Reversal in a Yellow-backed Duiker {Cephalophus sylvicultor) By Kathryn C. Gamble DVM, MS, DACZM, Lisa Fitzgerald MS, Jeffrey Buck MD Dallas Zoo, Dallas, TX Medical advances have been made in both diagnostics and surgery in exotic animals over the last decade. This case represents both aspects of this progress. In 1989, a male yellow- backed duiker (Cephaloplnis sylvicultor) was born from a sire that had been historically determined infected with Mycobacterium paratuberculosis (Johne’s Disease). Although the sire had been treated for the disease, both parents were housed together and were both considered exposed to the organism. Protocol at this time to prevent mycobacterial passage to the calf was separation from the dam before colostmm ingestion. At birth, this calf and its three siblings were removed for handrearing. Two years after the birth of this calf, the parents were euthanized due to chronic diarrhea and presumed persistent infection with the mycobacterium. Although no bacterial isolation was made from the sire, inflammatory changes were seen in the lymph nodes and intestines which were suggestive of mycobacterial infection. To prevent spread of the infecting organisms to other exhibits or facilities, transfer of the offspring was excluded and the siblings were managed as pairs. The male calves, now two to three years of age, were vasectomized and successfully re-introduced to their female siblings. They were exhibited for nearly 1 0 years in this manner without production of offspring. However, the males did demonstrate reproductive interest in the females by following, anogenital investigation, and licking of backs and rumps. Over this time, Johne’s Disease antemortem diagnostics changed. These four individuals consistently tested negative for M. paratuberculosis by improved culture techniques (University of Wisconsin, School of Veterinary Medicine, Mycobacteriology Laboratory, 2015 Linden Drive West, Room 4230, Madison WI, 53706) on repeated fecal samples. It was presumed that removal from the parents, hand-rearing, and unlikely infection of the dam contributed to the successful prevention of infection. The Yellow-backed Duiker PMP now was able to make breeding recommendations for these individuals, except that both males were essentially infertile. According to the studbook keeper, the particular male of this presentation was listed as the most valuable animal in the captive population for breeding. With this animal’s contribution inaccessible, two options were investigated: castration or vasectomy reversal. Through castration, sperm could be harvested from the testes and frozen for future use. The collected gametes could be utilized in artificial insemination efforts. However, this would render the animal pennanently sterile and potentially limit the overall production of offspring. Investigation was then made into vasectomy reversal, a procedure that had not been attempted in exotic ungulates. Typically, the vasectomy is performed in these species to create pemianent infertility. To accomplish this, the procedure includes removal of a section of vas deferens and produces substantial scarring at the site of the surgery. Furthermore, it is a micro-surgical procedure that requires skills and instrumentation not found in the typical veterinary practice. In the Dallas area, Dr. Jeffrey Buch is a human male infertility specialist, highly skilled in the vasectomy reversal procedure. Although unfamiliar with animal species, he was optimistic that reversal would be technically possible. It was unknown if this would 506 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 Figure 1 - Staff prepares the yellow-backed duiker for vasectomy reversal surgery. return the animal to fertility as it had been vasectomized at a young age. However, such an effort, if successful, could produce a reproductively sound, important genetic contributor to the species. The 11 -year-old duiker (Wt: 89. 8kg/ 198 lbs) was immobilized with a combination of carfentanil and xylazine then entubated to maintain the sedation with Isoflurane®. Once the animal was placed in right lateral recumbency, the surgical field was clipped then prepared for surgery (Figure 1). A local anesthetic was placed along the spermatic cord for balanced pain control within and after the surgical efforts. An initial skin incision was made to expose the spenuatic cord and Dr. Buch utilized an operating microscope (Zeiss) to complete the procedure. The surgical approach was challenged on several fronts: body positioning, thick skin of the scrotum, thickness of the supportive tissue of the spermatic cord (tunics), small size of vas deferens compared with body size of the animal, and unfamiliar anatomic orientation to the surgeon. Through persistent dissection. Dr. Buch was able to identify and isolate the severed ends of the vas deferens. Fluid from the vas deferens segment near the testis side end was sampled and evaluated intra-operatively to assess current testicular function. Motile spermatozoa in small numbers were found. This was encouraging for restoration of fertility, provided re- attachment was accomplished. Microsurgical instrumentation allowed reunion of the vas deferens with size 9 and 10 nylon suture (Figure 2). Closure of the supportive structures of the spermatic cord area was performed to reinforce the tunic support and prevent stretching of the reattachment. Due to the time involved in the surgery alone (two hours), it was decided that proceeding to the second side was not in the animal’s best interest. If already successful, the animal had been restored to fertility and additional anesthetic time could be detrimental to the accomplished goal. Furthermore, a second procedure could be scheduled at a later date to reattach the second vas deferens if this current procedure proved unsuccessful. Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 507 Figure 2 - Use of microsurgical instrumentation allowed reunion of the vas deferens with size 9 and 10 nylon sutures. Recovery was produced by yohimbine and naltrexate. A single dose of long-acting haloperidol was also administered to facilitate reduced activity in the post-operative period. The animal recovered from the surgery without incident and was returned to its holding enclosure at five days post-operatively. At the present time, the male is housed side by side with its stallmate. The female is scheduled to have a reproductive exam during her next immobilization for a hooftrim. Within the next two months, it is expected that the male will be immobilized for an electroejaculation prior to introduction of this animal to a female to assess his functional reproductive ability. Acknowledgements Authors would like to thank the Veterinary Staff and Mammal Keepers of the Dallas Zoo and Dallas Aquarium at Fair Park for their assistance in the surgical approach and post- operative care of this patient. Special appreciation is offered to Senior Staff Veterinarian Dr. Tom Alvarado and Curator of Mammals/Hoofstock, Anita Schanberger, for their support of this effort, Dr. J. Michael Putnam for arranging the operating microscope, and Cathy Burkey for photographic documentation. 508 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 Operant Conditioning of Yellow-Backed Duiker at the Dallas Zoo By Lisa Fitzgerald, Mammal Supervisor, Dallas Zoo Joseph Robertia, Zoologist, St. Catherine s Wildlife Survival Center . Kathryn Vogle, Mammal Keeper, Dallas Zoo Introduction/Methods Historically, the Dallas Zoo has maintained Yellow Backed Duikers (Cephalophus sylvicultor) since 1971. Four of these animals were wild-caught imports, and eighteen were captive- born. Dallas Zoo births number 17 from five different pairings of three males and five females. A review of historical records at the Dallas Zoo reveals that keepers have established some form of desensitization with the duikers over the years. This ranges from desensitization to touch (scratching and rubbing), shipping crates, shifting, and various fonns of environmental disturbance. Although these forms of desensitization were informal and unscheduled, they were often effective and were used to manage even wild caught individuals. In 1999, then Dallas Zoo keeper, Joseph Robertia, suggested formalizing the duiker conditioning. Specific goals were delineated and specific tactics were designed. The goals included: 1) desensitization to touch - beginning with the head and increasing to whole body 2 desensitization to noise - beginning with a radio and commonly used tools and progressing to power tools and machinery 3) desensitization to foreign objects - beginning with familiar tools and progressing to scales, crates, and other less frequently used items 4) continuation of hand feeding and addition of a bridge (clicker) 5) introduction of a head target and eventual targeting, using daily produce as a reward 6) introduction of a mock scale platform progressing to introduction of a real scale and cooperative weighing 7) introduction of a shipping crate progressing to entering crate for food The operant conditioning utilized a wooden target (a two-foot piece of rake handle), a box clicker, and cut produce from the prescribed diet. The Dallas Zoo duiker diet consisted of ADF 1 6 (2 quarts per animal), free choice alfalfa hay, and produce three days per week. The produce consisted of apple, carrot, yam, and grapes. Modification for training required dispensing the produce daily in smaller quantities, and allotting 10 to 15 minutes per day for desensitization and conditioning efforts. The specific animals to be conditioned were 1.1 hand reared individuals bom in 1988 and 1 989. The male was generally much calmer than the female and allowed daily scratching of Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 509 his head and neck. The female was nervous natured and would only allow infrequent touching on her head. It is important to note that even though the animals were hand-reared, both were at all times extremely unpredictable and easily frightened. The animals would readily take produce or browse from the hand of the keeper. The animals were maintained together until January 2000. Results First efforts focused on hand feeding and tactile desensitization. The male quickly allowed tactile contact on his shoulders and front legs. He soon allowed the keeper to approach him while he was recumbent in either the bam or yard. While he was lying down the keeper could touch all four legs and manipulate his hooves. The female was allowing more frequent contact on her face and head, but walked away when other areas were approached. Desensitization to noise was initiated by the introduction of a radio. The area in which the duikers were housed was often inundated with tool, and vehicular noise. Initially the radio was played at a low volume and softer music was played. Gradually the volume was increased and the music selection was switched to what the supervisor described as more annoying (metallic rock). There were no problems noted in introduction of the music. Prior to scale desensitization a predetermined location for the scale was selected and the grain bowl was placed at this location on a daily basis. Desensitization to the scale platforms was started by placing the platforms outside of the enclosure but within visual range. The platforms were then placed next to the enclosure within visual and olfactory range. The platforms were then placed in a corner of the enclosure to allow full inspection by the duiker. Once the duikers were comfortable with the platfonn it was placed in the desired location for weighing. First the platform was placed next to the grain bowl, then the bowl was placed on the platfonn and gradually moved to a position in front of the platform. Logs and branches stacked next to the platform required the animals to step onto the platform to eat from the bowl. Once the animals were standing comfortably on the mock platform, the real scale was substituted. The male duiker stepped on the scale and weighed 86.2kg (190 lbs.) The female duiker quickly recognized the change, although the platform and the scale are identical in shape, dimension, and color. As a result, she refused to stand on the scale, and we returned to the mock platform for additional training. After a few more unsuccessful attempts to introduce the scale, the keeper decided to disguise the scale by liberally covering it with dirt from the enclosure. This effort succeeded and we obtained our first cooperative weight from the female (70.3kg/155 lbs). Both duikers readily learned to touch their noses to the head target successfully and both acclimated to the clicker as a bridge. The male was taught to follow the target and was called to the target from lengthy distances with success. Targeting has been successful within the enclosure and from the opposite side of the fence. After a several month hiatus from training, both animals quickly resumed targeting. The shipping crate was designed and built by keepers for use within the zoo and for transfers out of the zoo. The first planned use for the crate was to facilitate the transfer of the duikers to a new exhibit within the zoo without the use of chemical sedation. The crate was introduced to the male using the same techniques as the scale platform. After acclimation to the crate, it was positioned perpendicular to the fence with both ends open. This placement was to allow the keeper to station herself outside the fence at one end of the crate. From this position she was to be able to present the head target and reward the duiker with produce for entering the crate. Early success has been obtained by presenting the target through a side 510 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 ventilation hole and having the male enter one quarter of the crate. The male has also placed his front feet in the crate to eat alfalfa placed inside. Discussion Formalizing the duiker conditioning has resulted in more consistent and rapidly obtained results. Daily training has eliminated the on/off cyclic response of the duikers to keepers and their environment, except in cases when the duikers have become extremely frightened or disturbed. A lapse in training did occur during staffing changes, but the duikers quickly returned to their former training success rates. According to Senior Keeper, Tracy Johnson, the female duiker was initially more tractable than the male, but became more nervous when placed on exhibit after weaning. Desensitization to noise and environmental disturbances could be an important aspect to consider when hand-rearing duiker calves (Farst, et ak, 1980; Frahm, 1999; Kranz and Lumpkin, 1982). Since the initiation of the duiker training program, the sibling pair was separated after the male underwent a vasectomy reversal (Gamble, et al - in this issue). Keepers have noted that both animals now seem shier and less eager to interact with staff. Although contrary to what one might expect from a hand-reared animal, this may show the strength of this monogamous animals’ pair bond (Kleiman, 1981). The benefits of tactile desensitization are many. Duikers are susceptible to facial and mandibular abscesses (Frahm, 1999; Roeder, et al. 1989), daily tactile examination may allow early detection and treatment. There have been some cases of hoof infection and overgrown hooves (Frahm, 1999, Dallas Zoo Records), tactile desensitization of legs and feet may also increase the probability of hoof trimming and treatment. Hand feeding allows close visual inspection and can be useful in administering oral medications. Obtaining regular weights on a cooperative basis is an excellent, non-invasive means of monitoring animal health and weight gains during gestation. Veterinary staff and the animals benefit by prescribing accurate drug dosages based on actual and not estimated weights. Calf growth rates can be obtained using cooperative weighing. (Robertia, et al. 2000). Measurements of the Dallas Zoo duiker’s weights over a year’s time frame have revealed only mild fluctuations. Although introduction of the crate to the male duiker was successful, efforts to lure him into the crate have resulted in slower gains. As a result of information shared at the 2000 workshop on the Husbandry, Nutrition, and Health of Captive Duikers at St. Catherine’s Island Wildlife Survival Center, we are also considering building a new crate with modified dimensions, since crates of our current design have been problematic at times. Another possibility we are exploring for in-house transfers is the use of a jumbo sized airline pet kennel. The duikers readily acclimated to the environmental noise provided by the radio, and the radio served to mask other noises which may have frightened the duikers. The duikers still respond to some disturbances by running into perimeter fences and walls. Desensitization to other environmental noise is deemed an important step to minimizing animal injury and the Dallas Zoo plans to implement this step in the near future. Another immediate goal is to condition the duikers to enter their stalls for easier lock-ups prior to known environmental disturbances. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 511 Acknowledgements The authors wish to thank Mammal Curator, Anita Schanberger for her support of this and other training programs. Thanks to Senior Keepers Tracy Johnson and Theresa Ramold for historical information on the duikers. Jason Sauceda was instrumental in helping to build the duiker crate and Kathy Lavender assisted with the historical records. Thanks to the staff of the Dallas Zoo, particularly the excellent keepers of the Hill. References Farst, D. D., D.P. Thompson, G.A. Stones, P.M. Burchfield, and M.L. Hughes. 1980. Maintenance and breeding of duikers Cephalophus spp at Gladys Porter Zoo, Brownsville. International Zoo Yearbook 20 : 93-99. Frahm, M.W. 1999. Medical management of duikers, pp. 668-681 in: Zoo and Wild Animal Medicine. Current Therapy. Eds. M.E. Fowler and R. E. Miller. W.B. Saunders Company: Philadelphia. Gamble, K.C., L. Fitzgerald, J. Buch (in print this issue). Vasectomy reversal in a Yellow-Backed Duiker {Cephalophus sylvicultor). Animal Keepers’ Forum Kleiman, D.G. 1981. Correlations among life history characteristics of mammalian species exhibiting two extreme forms of monogamy, pp. 332-344 in: Natural Selection and Social Behavior. Eds. R.D. Alexander and D.W. Tinkle. Chiron Press, Inc.: New York. Kranz, K. R. And S. Lum.pkin. 1982. Notes on the Yellow-backed duiker in captivity with comments on its natural history. International Zoo Yearbook 22: 232-240. Robertia, J., J. Sauceda, R. Willison. 2000. Conditioning three species of aridland antelopes for weight collection - a case study on Hippotraginae. Animal Keepers’ Forum 27(5):214-223. Roeder, B.L., M.M. Chengappa, K.F. Lechtenberg, T.G. Nagaraja, and G.A. Varga. 1989. Fusobacterium necwphorum and Actinomyces pyogenes associated facial and mandibular abscesses in blue duiker. Journal of Wildlife Diseases 25f 3L 370- 377. / \ Animal Behavior Management Committee Seeks Forms The AAZK Animal Behavior Management Committee would like to compile samples of forms used in animal training programs at various institutions. These forms would then be made available to AAZK members for use in their training programs. Shaping plans, training records and evaluation forms/methods are welcome. Anyone interested in submitting forms, should include: • A clean copy of a blank form • A brief description of each form’s use • Instructions for filling out each form • A brief overview of the zoo’s training program • Contact information Please submit entries by 15 December 2000to: Beth Stark, Animal Behavior Manager, The Toledo Zoo, 2700 Broadway, Toledo, OH 43609. For more information call Beth at (419) 385-5721 ext. 2051. 512 Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 Yellow-backed Duiker (Cephalophus sylvicultor) Husbandry at Disney’s Animal Kingdom By Angela Yang and Vicki Sawyer, Keepers Disney s Animal Kingdom, Lake Buena Vista, FL Disney’s Animal Kingdom exhibits 2.2 yellow-backed duikers {Cephalophus sylvicultor), 2.1 (Okapia johnstoni) and 2.0 Stanley cranes {Anthropoides paradisea) displayed together in a naturalistic enclosure measuring approximately 9,144 square meters. This heavily landscaped exhibit, in the “Ituri Forest”, is visible from both the Pangani Forest Exploration (walking) Trail and the Kilimanjaro Safaris (ride). Two sets of moats, pole and chain-link fencing and raised concrete berms form the boundaries. Multi-species exhibit with okapi, yellow-backed duiker and Stanley crane (not pictured) Housing The holding facility for the exhibit. Bam 1 , is a basic concrete block and wood building with eight indoor stalls with adjoining outdoor yards of decomposed granite substrate. The stalls measures 5.8m x 3.7m; the yards measure 5.8m x 3.7m. All the stalls and yards are interconnected by sliding panel doors. Built-in exhaust fans, ceiling panels and large doors at both ends of the barn provide ventilation. Overhead heaters provide heat during the colder weather. Individual Nelson® drinkers are in each stall and outdoor yard. Three of the outdoor yards, used by the duikers, have plywood “lean-tos” to provide animals with shelter and hiding spots since the duikers spend more time in the outdoor yards. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 513 Behind the barn, a rear holding ( 60m sq. ) area leads to a ramp extending into the exhibit itself. A 2.5 meter gate separates the ramp and the enclosure. A series of “blossom” hot- wire and a fenced off area (“duiker creep”) permit the duikers to access shaded areas away from okapi. Initially, more than 100 species of trees and bushes were incorporated into the landscape; however, the okapi and duiker have browsed the area extensively and bamboo {Bambusa spp.) is now the dominant plant species in the exhibit. An automatic Nelson® drinker is themed as a tree stump, next to a larger tree stump which supports a rubber feed tub. Adjoining outdoor yards feature decomposed granite substrate. Management The 1 .2 yellow-backed duikers are housed individually in three stalls on the west side of the bam; the 2.1 okapi reside in the four stalls on the east side of the barn. Two male Stanley cranes are housed in one stall on the west side of the barn. Each duiker has access to one stall and one yard in the evening. Each morning, the exhibit is prepared with enrichment items, supplemental browse, fresh water and hay (for the okapi only). Hay is not currently provided for the duikers during the day as it interferes with their return to the barn in the evening. Browse bundles are tied to large trees with jute. Chopped produce is placed in “tongue tubes” constructed of PVC pipe and scattered on the ground. Water is placed in a gray plastic tub on the ground as enrichment for the Stanley crane as well as the duikers. First, the 2.0 Stanley crane are led into the exhibit with giant mealworms and a clicker. Next, the sliding panel doors between the duikers’ outside DG yards are opened to give them access to each other. Then the sliding door leading to the rear holding area is opened to allow the 1 .2 duikers to transfer into the exhibit. Following the duikers, the okapi enter the exhibit. Initially all the animals spend quite a bit of time exploring the yard for enrichment items. 514 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 Originally, both female duikers were exhibited with the male duiker, but the increase in aggression between the females, including horn raking, vocalizing and chasing, resulted in rotating the female animals with the male on exhibit. Yellow-backed duikers are known to be solitary animals but are often displayed in pairs or individually in captivity. Rear holding area with ramp into the exhibit. Diet The duikers are offered alfalfa free choice in the bam. In the evening, when they return to the barn, they are offered 3 lbs of 16% ADF small pellets (Mazuri®) and about one cup of chopped produce which includes: apples, carrots, yams, bananas and novel produce such as melon and grapes. The duikers are offered browse multiple times per day. The enrichment offered periodically throughout the day is shared between the okapi and duikers . Trees are baited with small pieces of fruit and there are two tongue tubes in which various items are placed. Twice a week potted trees (Eleocarpus decipiens) are transplanted into the yard. These trees are removed and replaced such that the trees can recover and be used again. Bundles of browse are added to the exhibit in the morning and periodically during the day. A small salt block is provided on exhibit. Herbs (rosemary, mint, tarragon, oregano, etc.) and assorted scents (concentrated flavorings of rosemary, mint, banana, anise are diluted with water) are offered as well as frozen ice blocks with fruit or herbs. Training The two female duikers are target-trained using a pool buoy on the end of a 2.5ft. dowel. The male duiker is in the beginning stages of target training by being bridged when accepting small pieces of fruit from keepers. The target training has helped to condition the duikers for physical examinations, and ultrasounds and we are able to target them onto platform scales for weighing. Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 515 Reproduction A 1 5month-old male duiker was introduced to our two females in February of 1 999. Shortly after the introduction, breeding behavior was observed and a male duiker calf was bom on 9 May 2000, Another calf is expected soon. Currently, the mother and calf are being held in the bam and yards due to exhibit modifications and the timeline for the other animals reintroduction to the group is undetermined at this time. Conclusion Disney’s Animal Kingdom has been able to successfully exhibit okapi, yellow-backed duiker, Stanley crane and the occasional flock of guinea fowl together. Through the training and enrichment programs, guest are able to see any or all of the animals from either the walking path or the safari ride. Through future modifications of this display, this exhibit space will be able to accommodate our duiker and okapi reproduction programs. Fecal Scoring in Captive Duiker Antelope By Beverly L. Boeder, DVM, PhD Department of Animal Science, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah The gross appearance of feces varies with its composition. The largest single factor affecting quantity of fecal dry matter excreted is amount of indigestible dry matter consumed by an animal. ‘ Wild mminants diets vary greatly in dry matter, fiber content, and protein depending on stage of plant growth and seasonal effects. Small ruminants, such as blue duiker (Cephalophus monticola) and Maxwell’s duiker (C. maxwellii), are generally classified as browsers or fmgivores. Frugivores may be adapted to a diet of soluble fibers, such as might be found in wild fruits.^ Larger duikers, such as yellow-backed duiker (C. sylvicultor) and black duiker (C. niger) may have different dietary adaptations that permit inclusion of browse in their diet with less soluble fiber. Digestion in ruminant species is continuous, and these animals have a higher frequency of defecation than monogastric species. Defecation frequency ranges from 7-15 times per day for most ruminants. Dry matter content of feces is typically 30-50% in species which excrete pellets.' Ruminant fecal dry matter consists of undigested dietary material, undigested cell walls of rumen bacteria, microbial cells from the hindgut (cecum and large intestine), and endogenous digestive residues (enzymes, mucus, and sloughed alimentary tract epithelial cells). In ruminants where the norm is individual pelleted feces, any deviation may indicate diarrhea. Diarrhea is defined as an increase in the frequency, fluidity, or volume of bowel movements. Diarrhea may be a sign of primary bowel disease or a nonspecific response to sepsis, toxemia, or disease of another organ system. Five major mechanisms produce diarrhea: ^’"‘(l) A decreased or damaged absorptive surface area (malabsorption), mainly a result of villus blunting or atrophy in the small intestine. This is usually a sequelae of enteric diseases, in neonatal animals (rotavirus, coronavirus, cryptosporidiosis, salmonellosis), and in adult animals, acute salmonellosis, enterotoxemia caused by Clostridium spp., winter dysentery (coronavirus), malignant catarrhal fever, and chronic diseases (Johne’s Mycobacterium paratuberculosis, and immune-mediated granulomatous bowel diseases, or chronic inflammatory bowel diseases which are protein-losing enteropathies). (2) Increased numbers of osmotically active particles within the intestinal lumen, such as with cathartics which hold water in the intestine and act as a fecal softener, and laxatives which are poorly absorbed. Dietary disaccharides are natural substances that may cause diarrhea if fed in quantities that 516 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 exceed the intestinal capacity for digestion and absorption. Animals consuming excessive carbohydrate or lipid (grain overload) may have osmotic diarrhea with a marked shift in gut flora and an associated metabolic acidosis and endotoxemia. (3) Increased volume of secretion of solutes and water as is usually seen with enteric pathogens such as enterotoxigenic E. coli, Salmonella spp., and C. perfringens. These pathogenic microbes produce inflammation that may induce prostaglandinhmediated secretion. Viral pathogens may cause secretion due to damaged mature (absorbing) villus cells being replaced by immature (secreting) crypt cells. (4) Abnormal intestinal motility resulting in decreased transit time associated with increased peristalsis and/or decreased segmentation appears to occur in many bowel diseases because of bowel irritation. However, fecal volume associated with motility disorders is not great. Nervous or excitable animals may have a primary motility disorder. (5) Increased blood-to-lumen pressure as in heart failure or acute or chronic inflammatory bowel diseases.^ The common net result for all five causes is an increase in fecal water. Knowing the normal feces consistency for any species one is working with is important. It is meaningful to observe feces from captive species on a daily basis and to chart any deviations noticed. If group housed, vigilant observations must be made to determine which animal has abnormal feces. A change in feces may be the first clinical sign that a duiker is developing a health problem. Ideally, look at the color and consistency of a recent defecation. Are the feces clumped together with mucus? Do the feces have a sticky consistency? Is there a black “tar” appearance which may indicate digested blood is present? Does the animal have dysentery (bloody diarrhea)? Are some of the feces normal in appearance while part are watery? Animal keepers should observe the animal’s demeanor, look for loss of body condition, change in hair coat (color or dullness), and note any differences found. Ideally, repeated body weight measurements over time will also help define the animal’s overall health. Any sustained loss in condition and body weight with accompanying change in fecal consistency is an indication of declining health. Daily observation of duiker feces is best charted with a fecal score. Figures 1-5 give an artist’s rendition of fecal appearances scored as 1 through 5 respectively, with 1 being normal and 5 overt diarrhea. Fig. 1 - Normal pelleted duiker feces. Fig. 2 - Pelleted duiker feces that are individually identifiable but clumped together; easily separated into single pelleted feces. Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 517 Fig. 4 - Mass of congealed duiker feces containing large amounts of wet feces and/or mucus holding the mass together with a “dog stool” appearance. Fig. 3 - Mass of clumped duiker feces held together with mucus; individual pelleted feces identifiable, but not easily separated. Fig. 5 - Few identifiable pelleted duiker feces; mass of very wet, mucoid diarrhea. A recent investigation in the nutritional management of captive moose illustrates why fecal consistency observations are important over time. This study was conducted after observations of death losses preceded by a nonspecific enteritis, chronic diarrhea, and loss of body condition in captive moose. ^ Wild moose fed grass or legume hays in “emergency feeding” programs had been noted to produce amorphous feces shortly after consuming these feedstuffs.”^ It was discovered that although other cervids thrive on alfalfa, grass, and grains, captive moose fed these diets ultimately die of chronic diarrhea/wasting inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In all moose given access to grass, legume hays, or lush grass pastures, although they grew well up to three years of age, they began to experience a continual decline in fecal consistency. Isolation of anaerobic bacteria linked to IBD, Bacteroides vulgatus, in one moose calf with diarrhea, responsive only to metronidazole treatment (an antibiotic with antihinflammatory properties that is specific for anaerobic gram-negative bacilli and gram-positive cocci) indicates some of these cases are due to a bacteria-associated defective immunoregulatory response to ubiquitous gut antigens.^ From this study it appears 518 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 that moose are similar to some humans in that a wide range of enteric infections, toxins, or dietary allergens are capable of activating an inflammatory cascade that results in chronic intestinal injury when susceptible individuals are unable to downregulate the inflammatory process.* Wild ungulates may be dependent upon secondary plant compounds that are prevalent in browses, such as tannins or salicylates, to maintain the health of a their gastrointestinal tract."^’* Duiker antelope indigenous to subSaharan Africa may also have a need for specific substances in forage or browse to protect their gastrointestinal tract from antigens found in feedstuffs. An accurate diet history of what was actually fed and consumed is very important in correlation with abnormal feces. Fecal scoring should always be done when any new feedstuffs are added to the duiker’s ration. Scoring captive duiker feces on a regular basis can help detect abnormalities in the early stage of onset. Fecal scoring can be included in a duiker’s database and a level of concern established based on repeated observation of abnormal feces. Any duiker with abnormal feces observed on consecutive days should be pulled for examination. In summary, assigning a numeric score to the visual appearance of duiker feces can help animal keepers detect a digestive problem associated with feed or an illness in its early stages. The behavior of captive duiker antelope makes if difficult to detect health problems at an early stage. Fecal scoring duiker antelope can help determine when an animal needs to have a thorough examination and can help prevent death losses. Acknowledgement Illustrations for duiker fecal scoring by Karl W. Sant, commercial artist. References 1. Merchen NR: Fecal excretion and composition. In Church DC: The Ruminant Animal, Digestive Physiology and Nutrition, Englewood, NJ, 1988, Prentice Hall, pp 180-181. 2. Conklin-Brittain NL, Dierenfeld ES: Digestive capacity differences among four species weighing less than 20 kg. Zoo Biology 1996; 15:481-490. 3. Smith BP: Alterations in alimentary and hepatic function. In Smith BP.- Large Animal Internal Medicine, ed. 2, New York, NY, 1996, Mosby, ppl 18-141. 4. Moon HW: Mechanisms in the pathogenesis of diarrhea. Journal of American Veterinary Medical Association 1978;173:443-448. 5. Oestreicher P, Nielsen ST, Rainsford KD: Inflammatory bowel disease induced by combined bacterial immunization and oral carrageenan in guinea pigs. Digestive Diseases and Sciences 1991;36:461-470. 6. Shochat E, Robbins CT, Parish SM, et al: Nutritional investigations and management of captive moose. Zoo Biology 1997;16:479-494. 7. Schwartz CC: Techniques of moose husbandry in North America. Alces Supplement 1992a;l:177-192. 8. Sartor RB: Current concepts of the etiology and pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Gastroenterology Clinics of America 1995;24:475-507. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 27, No. 11, 2000 519 Husbandry Study of Six Captive Maxwell’s Duikers (Cephalophus maxwelli) By Tamar Friedner and Colleen Morrow Wildlife Conservation Society; Wildlife Survival Center St. Catherine s Island, Midway, GA 31320 Abstract. Fecal matter, shelter preference, and behavioral observations were evaluated in six captive Maxwell’s duikers {Cephalophus maxwelli). The animals included two mating pairs, one solitary male and one solitary female. Animals were offered several shelter options and monitored during daylight hours. Excrement was also examined and scored according to its consistency. The animals showed an avoidance of the additional shelters with no affect on time spent ruminating. Behaviors were recorded at 1 5 -second intervals according to an ethogram, and a baseline activity budget was established. Unusual behaviors recorded included substantial grazing in this forest dwelling species. Introduction Maxwell’s Duikers {Cephalophus maxwelli) have had a presence in the zoological collection of the Wildlife Survival Center on St. Catherine’s Island (WSC) since 1 994, yet much remains unknown about this small, skittish antelope and its behaviors in captivity. Because of their shy nature and nervous tendency, there is little information available about duiker activity patterns (Pfefferkorn, 1998). Establishing a solid record of the Maxwell’s duikers’ daily activity budget aids in a further understanding of their resource requirements in captivity. Increased knowledge of the species enables better ecosystem management decisions and may therefore improve overall conservation efforts. It also may initiate amendments of current husbandry protocols and modifications to exhibit design. With an informed awareness of the species through case studies such as this, a better comprehension of its ecological necessities can be determined resulting in improved management concerning life cycle requirements of captive populations. This study had several objectives including: the creation of a fecal condition measure, determining location preferences for rumination as well as other activities, understanding shelter needs by the animal, and the production of a daily time budget for each animal to contribute to an overall activity budget for the species in captivity at the Wildlife Survival Center. Looking at the duiker history at WSC, health issues have become a recurring concern. Problematic indications such as a dull, kinky coat, poor fecal consistency, “slosh belly syndrome”, bloating, and copper deficiency have all emerged within this population (WSC, unpubl. data). All the duikers have shown one or more of the symptoms, which are considered unhealthy and at times life-threatening. By creating an accurate activity budget through an intensive study covering daylight hours, a better understanding of the animal is obtained enabling treatments to be based on true behavior versus deductive reasoning. The duikers live in individual enclosures, three of which measure approximately 33x15 meters while the fourth (containing Frankie and Chuck) measures 18x15 meters. Within these outdoor yards, several plant species are available to the animals including pampas grass, coastal Bermuda grass, pennywort, live oak, and bayberry (Shropshire, 1995). Most of the enclosures also have a high level of exposure to the sun. In the wild Maxwell’s duikers are considered forest dwellers. A preferable exhibit set up would offer a heavily canopied overstory with comparatively thin undergrowth so as not to have movement and vision obstructed (Estes, 1991). In a zoo setting, ability to offer the animal an environment that is native to them is often the goal but usually has limitations. Changing the animal’s natural niche may modify its behavior 520 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 and health patterns. This alteration further supports the need to collect baseline data for captive animals, such as these, to improve husbandry and devise conservation schemes. Methodology Study Groups The duiker collection includes the following animals: Max- bom 10/18/93 Maxine- bom 1 1/26/94 Above two are housed together. Bobby- born 7/14/98 (offspring of above pair) Huggy- born 7/17/96 (offspring of above pair) Above two are solitary neighbors. Frankie- born 11/24/97 (offspring of first pair) Chuckie- bom 1 1/3/94 Above two are housed together. The six duikers were divided into two groups based on their housing situations. Each test group consisted of a breeding pair and a single animal located in the adjacent pen. During the first study period, 23-April 2000 through 27-April 2000, group one (Max, Maxine, and Bobby) was designated as a control group while group two (Chuckie, Frankie, and Huggy) received the treatment. The second study period was conducted from 7-May through 10- May 2000. This period was designed as a crossover for the two groups in which the shelters were removed from the enclosures of test-group-two, cleaned, disinfected, and placed into the enclosures of test-group-one. The crossover allowed for all animals to receive both treatments. Each group was studied with only slight changes made to their enclosures or daily routines. Shelters were initially introduced to the animals by leaving them outside the enclosures for one day. Next, four shelters were placed inside the enclosures of the treatment group five days prior to the start of observation. This method acclimated the animals to the sight and scent of the devices. For both groups the automatic watering systems were deactivated so water consumption could be monitored (Huggy ’s water intake was not monitored because his watering system could not be deactivated). Feces was removed and scored twice daily. Shelters The four shelters used for the treatment include a synthetic A-frame, a naturalistic A-frame, a shade table, and a Vari-kennel®. The first three shelters listed were floorless, and placed directly on the grass. Each shelter was placed inside the enclosure according to the following criteria: • shelter opening was easy to view from observation points • shelter did not intmde on an area of the enclosure that was already used often by the animals • shelter did not cover a defecation focus • shelter was not shaded for the majority of the day by any other structures (i.e. a tree) (plate 2A). The synthetic A-frame (plate 2B) was a triangular structure with a base of 1 34cm, a height of 87cm, and a length of 133cm. A sawhorse style frame was built using 5cm x 10cm lumber. Corrugated fiberglass was nailed lengthwise to the sides of the frame. This shelter style was chosen to allow an occupant two escape routes and provide full shade at most times of the day. The fiberglass provided for a soft, bright shade due to its translucent nature. We recommend that an alternative to fiberglass be used because of its tendency to shred, which could cause harm to the animals. Prefabricated wooden sawhorses were used as a frame for the naturalistic A-frame shelter Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 521 (plate 2C). This shelter measured 61cm at the base, 77cm at the apex, and 131cm in length. Dried palm fronds were attached to the frame using baling twine to form a small hut. The A- frame shape was chosen again to allow for two escape routes. Palm fronds were used because they were readily available and easily formed an irregular natural shape with sound and movement that might be more like those found in the wild. The shade cast by this shelter was darker than that from the fiberglass A-frame but spots of light could shine through. The shade table (plate 2D) was made using 10cm x 10cm lumber for the legs and 1.3cm plywood for the top. The dimensions of the table were 130cm long, 1 13cm wide and 88cm high. This shelter was designed to test whether the animals preferred shade to shelter. The four sides to this shelter were completely unobstructed except for the legs of the table. The final shelter offered to the test animals was a Vari-kennel® measuring 59cm long, 49cm wide and 49cm high (plate 2E). Coastal Bahia grass hay was used as bedding inside the kennel. The kennel was added to the study due to future interest in crate training of the animals. It allowed for a shelter option with one escape route and a snug fit. Both the treatment group and the control group were allowed access to the shelters that already existed inside their enclosures. These duiker boxes were two room plywood structures 230cm in length and 1 15cm wide with a roof that slanted from 126cm to 1 13cm in height and one escape route (plate 2F). The animals were allowed access to the boxes to minimize amount of change in daily routine. Observation Methods Three duikers were observed simultaneously by three observers for half an hour. Every half-hour the observers switched subjects to observe the remaining three animals resulting in all six animals being studied for one half-hour out of every hour. Observer/duiker groups were chosen using a random drawing. The observations for each period covered all hours from dawn 0630 until dusk 2045 except for 1500-1600 hours during period 1 and 0600- 0700 hours during period 2. The 1 500-1600 period was not covered due to staffing constraints, and the 0600-0700 period was not studied because the animals only became visible at 0645 during period 1 (light constraints). During period 1, 4-hour observation blocks were used. This switched to 2-hour blocks twice each day during period 2 so that the 1500-1600 time slot could be covered. An attempt was made to study the behavior of the duikers after dark using night vision scopes. The scopes were not powerful enough to facilitate observation. Any hours that occurred when it was not light enough to see the duikers were not included in the study, however, we recommend a study including behavior during non-daylight hours in the future due to the strong possibility of nocturnal activity. Data were collected using a continuous scan method in which one animal was watched consecutively for half an hour. The behaviors recorded are shown in Chart 1, an ethogram created prior to the start of the study. Binoculars were used when necessary in order to see subtle behaviors. When the animals moved out of sight the observer repositioned herself to see the animal whenever possible. This movement did not seem to have a significant effect on five out of the six animals’ behavior. Bobby sprinted away from the observer every time the observer made a significant movement. The longest distance between observer and animal was less than 20 meters. In studying fecal consistency among the WSC duiker collection, our first step was to establish a fecal grading chart with pictures, definitions, and a numerical rating system. We collected several samples of all noted consistencies of the excrement and grouped them according to shape and appearance. We then developed a grading system separating specific fecal types and labeled them types 1 through 5. Types 1 through 4 were documented with pictures. The type 5 fecal score was not present during collection of the samples but remains a possibility for an unhealthy animal to pass and was therefore incorporated in the grading system. The fecal scoring system seen in Plates 1-5 was utilized twice daily throughout the 522 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 test periods to determine a percentage of excrement classification for each animal both throughout the day (0800-1600) and throughout the night (1600-0800). During each observational block the temperatures in the shade and in the sun were recorded from thermometers hanging outside of the enclosures. Each morning water was measured and put into the drinker bowls. The water that remained the next morning was measured and the amount was recorded. Results Of the six duikers studied, none showed any usage of the shelters introduced into the enclosures. The animals paid little attention to the treatment structures. Interaction with the shelters included, preorbital gland marking of the Vari-kennel®, sniffing shade table, and walking under the shade table. During period 1 there were five instances (5 seconds or less) of these behaviors performed by two animals (Frankie and Chuckie). Frankie and Chuckie did occupy a smaller yard. During period 2 no interactions with the shelters were observed. Overall the behaviors that filled up the majority of the duikers’ time were, out of sight (OS), rumination (RU), standing (STAND), walking (W), lying rest (LR), grazing (G), drinking (D), browsing (B), eating pellets (EP), eating provided browse (EB), autogrooming (AU), and allogrooming (AL) (Fig. la and b). Table la and b. provide a total time budget for period 1 and period 2 for the six Maxwell’s duikers studied. The duikers showed a tendency to remain out of sight during the heat of the day. Five out of the six animals were out of sight between 1300 hours and 1 800 hours during period 1 (Fig. 2a). Frankie was the only animal that remained visible during these times. The average high and low temperatures for period 1 were 25°C and 15°C (77°F and 59°F). Because of the relatively cool nights the days did not heat up until approximately 1200 hours. The average high and low temperatures during period 2 were 30°C and 24°C (86°F and 75°F). Three of the six animals remained out of sight between 0900 and 1600 hours (Fig 2b). These animals were Max, Maxine and Bobby. The other three animals, Chuckie, Frankie, and Huggy remained in sight but all stayed in heavily shaded areas of their enclosures. When rumination was visible by the observers during period 1 , it occurred mostly in the morning between 0700 and 1100 hours and in the afternoon between 1600 and 1900 hours. Maxine was not visible ruminating during period 1 . During period 2 the three animals that were out of sight during the heat of the day showed a similar morning and evening rumination pattern to the animals during period 1 . Most of the rumination took place between 0700 and 0900 hours and again between 1600 and 2000 hours. Frankie, Chuckie and Huggy stayed in sight while ruminating throughout the day (Fig. 2a and b). During period 1 Bobby, Huggy, and Frankie were the only three animals that could be seen ruminating. Maxine did not ruminate while in sight. Max and Chuckie ruminated while in sight but they were in a position in which chews and bolus frequency could not be counted. The average amount of chews per bolus for the other 3 animals was between 36 and 47. All three animals demonstrated an average bolus per minute rate of 2 (Table 2). During period 2 all animals ruminated in clear sight of the observer. The bolus rate varied between 1 and 3 boluses per minute and the average chews per bolus stayed consistent with those of period 1 at 33-55 chews per bolus. All six duikers grazed during this study. For the purposes of this study the term graze was used to define the action when an animal was eating the vegetation that grew from the ground inside the enclosures. The vegetation included various grasses and forbs. If an animal stopped eating or chewing for more than five seconds the behavior was no longer recorded as grazing. Although it was difficult to see exactly what was being ingested at all times, there were times when specific parts of the vegetation were definitely consumed. Observers noted entire blades of grass, flowers, seed heads, roots, and leaves ingested. Despite the fact Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 523 that the animals were observed grazing for less time during period 1 there was little variation between the periods in the amount of time that each animal spent grazing (Fig. 3). During both periods Frankie spent nearly 100 minutes grazing. Overall Bobby showed the most consistency in producing type 1 feces. During both periods she produced type 1 feces more than 50% of the time and type 2, 20% of the time. Huggy produced mainly type 1 and type 2 feces during both periods although the proportion of type 1 was greater during period 1 . The Max and Maxine enclosure and the Frankie and Chuckie enclosure both contained less type 1 feces during period 1 than during period 2 (Fig. 4a and b). Discussion The duikers showed repetition of relatively few behaviors during the study. In addition to the behaviors listed previously there were also others seen. These behaviors were recorded as bouts or did not occur enough to include in the data separately so they were lumped together in the category “miscellaneous.” Some of these behaviors include sniffing the air, vocalizing (barking), relieving body of insects, yawning, pacing, licking face, mounting a mate, avoiding sexual advances, hiccuping, rooting in the dirt, heaving, stretching, sniffing fence, interaction with keeper (the duiker were being trained to step on a scale at the time of the study), eating bugs, and standing with back in a high arch. The duikers did not significantly show any definite stereotypies though a more focused study specifically on their pacing behavior may identify it as such. The amount of time that the animals spent out of sight makes it difficult to determine the actual time each one spent ruminating. During period 2 Chuckie’s hoof became considerably overgrown and he walked with a pronounced limp. He spent much of his time lying in view of the observers in a shady comer. He was observed ruminating each hour between 1000 and 1800. The other duikers spent much of this time out of sight. The data show that the more time that the animals were in sight the more they were seen ruminating. The amount of time each animal was observed ruminating is most likely not representative of the actual time each animal ruminated. During period 2 the three animals, Chuckie, Frankie, and Huggy, that did not have extra shelters in their enclosures spent more time in view of the observers. We believe this is due to the nature of their enclosures rather than the absence of shelters. The two enclosures that housed these animals provide more shade from trees and vines than the enclosures that contained Max, Maxine and Bobby. Despite the small sample size used for this study the average chews per bolus and boluses per minute during rumination remained very consistent. In comparison to other Maxwell’s duikers this data can show that the WSC duikers either all have the same chew and bolus rates as their healthier counterparts or that they are all different. If the WSC duikers show different rates of chewing and bolus passing than their healthy counterparts insight can be gained into the cause of the health problems with duikers on WSC. This detail again supports the need for baseline data on other duikers held in zoological collections. All six duikers were observed grazing. Although the definition of grazing used for this study also counted foraging, the animals were distinctly observed consuming grasses and forbs. It is important to reconsider the diet and housing situations of these small duikers knowing that on WSC they graze. When trying to understand the differences between duikers at WSC with health problems and animals at other institutions without health problems it is important to know that the WSC animals ate the vegetation found inside their enclosures. Fecal scores do not seem to show any pattern. The animals always finished most of their pellets and drank the same amounts of water. There was a change in the browse provided to 524 Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 11, 2000 each animal from period 1 to period 2. Besides what the animals ate from their enclosures the only diet change that occurred daily was from carrots to yams. There was no correlation between time observed ruminating and fecal score. In the enclosure containing Max and Maxine all feces types 1-4 were found however, when these animals were observed defecating Maxine excreted types 1 and 2 and Max excreted types 3 and 4. In a replication of this study, which we believe is important to boost sample size and establish baseline data for institutions to be able to access, we recommend the following: • Deciding which behaviors to focus on throughout the study. • Reducing the amount of data considered “out of sight” by increasing visibility either by exhibit design or cameras. • Monitor nocturnal activity. • Allow animals a much longer time to adjust to added shelters (acclimation) before recording observations. Through gathering data on the behavior of captive Maxwell’s duikers, improved management strategies could be developed and implemented. Building an understanding of captive animals through behavioral observation may also allow for a further evaluation of the effects of captivity on animal behavior. Though our results indicate that the duikers in this study did not select for any of the added shelters in the enclosures, we feel, based on our observations, that an authentic habitat to their native ecology may elicit a change of behaviors. By adding large amounts of shade to the overall area of the enclosure (imitating a forest canopy), as this species would see in the wild, instead of a few small, isolated shelters in full sun, the animals may exhibit more activity throughout the day instead of taking refuge from the elements. By maintaining behavioral observations and encouraging communications between zoos to develop a behavior “standard”, identifying disturbances such as illness, stereotypy, boredom, courtship, pregnancy, and aggression can be more easily recognized and treated accordingly. More informed protocols, enrichment activities, and nutrition recommendations can be refined and exercised. Captive management practices evolving with careful observation and research within zoos, may one day be applied to important conservation efforts globally. Acknowledgments We thank Jen Savage who was roped into observing duikers for hours, many of which were not “on the clock”. We also thank Joseph Robertia for editing and supporting us throughout this project and for doing such great training work with the duiker collection. We feel that this training allowed the duikers to be more comfortable with our presence than they otherwise would have been. Thanks to the WSC staff for contributing to our learning during our internships. Finally, the International Duiker Workshop, which took place on SCI, was a wonderful inspiration to us. We thank Kelly Spratt for organizing it, and everyone who was involved in planning, funding, and attending the workshop. References Estes, R. D. 1991 . The Behavior Guide to African Mammals. The University of California Press, London. Pfefferkom, C. 1998. North American Studbook for the Duiker Species; Bay, Black, Red- flanked, and Zebra Duiker. Oregon Zoo. Shropshire, K. 1995. Methods for Duiker Nutrition Study. Unpublished data accessible at St. Catherines Island Wildlife Survival Center. Wildlife Conservation Society. 2000. Personal communication. Husbandry, Nutrition, and Health of Captive Duikers ConferenceCatherines Island, Wildlife Survival Center. Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 525 Chart 1 - Ethogram for a study of six Maxwell’s duikers (Cephalophus maxwelli) at St. Catherine’s Island Wildlife Survival Center, Midway, GA. Behavior Subcategory Description Drinking Intake of water Eating Provided Fruit Eating produce from food bowl. Provided Pellets Eatmg pellets from food bowl. Provided Browse Eating cut browse hanging from fence. Browsing Eating browse that is part of exhibit. Grazing Eating grasses or forbes from the ground (not often possible to distinguish from observation). Groom Autogroom Animal licks itself. Does not include licking face. Allogroom Animal licks another individual Face Animal licks face. Recorded by the number of licks. Insect Rid Any motion that appears to be aimed at removing insects from body, includes twitching, snapping jaws, flicking tail, etc. Out of Sight Current House Animal is in current housing Natural Tent Animal is in naturalistic A-frame shelter Unnatural Tent Animal is in unnatural A-frame shelter Sky Kennel Animal is in sky kennel Pampas Grass Animal is in or behind pampas grass Misc. Animal is out of sight to observer but not in or behind any of the shelters Rest Standing Rest Animal is in a standing position and does not appear to be doing anything else (not obviously ruminating). Lying rest Animal is in a lying position with eyes open. Sleep Animal is in a lying position with eyes closed. Rumination Standing or Lying Animal begins to masticate apart from food intake. Bolus movement up and down esophagus precedes mastication. Rumination bouts will be timed at the onset of mastication and chews will be counted when possible. Shade Table Animal is in shade cast from provided table Misc. Animal is in the shade of something other than a provided shelter. Animal is still in an open area. Walking Walking not associated with grazing. May be able to determine destination. Startled Sprint A short sprint stemming from fear due to an outside influence. 526 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 Plate 1. Fecal scoring for a study of six Maxwell’s duikers at St. Catherine’s Island Wildlife Survival Center, Midway, GA. p- Type 1. Pelleted Feces are completely formed into approximately Vi cm pellets (in Maxwell’s duiker). Pellets do ncrt stick to one another. Pellets may have a glossy sh^ Iftit will not clump. Type 2. Clumpy Pellded Feces appear pelleted and stuck tc^ether on the outside but is soft and informed in the center. Type 3. Clumpy Fec«; are comprised of large soft segraanits fcx-ming a solid mass. Type 4. Smoc^ Fcmed W % HI? o £ ^ ■ D ■ ih □ DO g E c (p = I i I Q) g C P I ^ © g> 8 « E -5 ^ CQ UJ UJ < < in Q n B ■ M’yvvVvVWVkvv m s '//////////////////. ^ w*w^**w*WVJm UJ (8e)nu|ui) euiij. 532 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 11, 2000 Figure 2a. Period 1 rumination time and time out of sight by hour for six Maxwell’s duiker at St. Catherine’s Island Wildlife Survival Center, Midway, GA. Figure 2a. Period 1 rumination time and time out of sight by hour for 6 Maxwell’s duiker at St. Catherines Island Wildlife Survival Center, Midway, GA. on FRANKIE ^ - *25- f- |,0- 5 ■ OS ~ ■ RU 1 ■ 1 iir~ U H 5 2 2 2 5 5 5 2 5 5 5 5 5 <<<: i s , n '''• t; '•“i a ^ H c O V S ; tA ^ : L^N _■ , ft i' ro ■< r 'A \ 6 m cr i-* , 0^? H o ::: 51 * •£ A 0;> H‘ 2> ^ .^. -4 d ' 0 V ::5 2? «> < % 0^ a y 'A W ^ Q 1^ c D 0) 0 2 o 0 D 0 iD C 0 0 (D a W W ANIMAL KEEPERS’ FORUM. 3601 S.W. 29th St., Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614 nFrFlVTRFl? Phone: 1-800-242-4519 (U.S.) 1-800-468-1966 (Canada) FAX (785) 273-1980 ZUUU Vol. 27, No. 12 Managing Editor: Susan D. Chan • Associate Editors/Enrichment Options Coordinators: Gretchen Ziegler, Sequoia Park Zoo & Jan Roletto, Utah’s Hogle Zoo • Legislative Outlook Column Coordinator: Georgann B. Johnston, Sacramento, CA. • ABC's Column Coordinator: Diana Guerrero, San Diego, CA • Reactions Column Coordinator: William K. Baker, Jr., Frank Buck Zoo, Gainesville, TX Animal Keepers’ Forum (ISSN 0164-9531) is a monthly journal of the American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. Ten dollars of each membership fee goes toward the annual publication costs of Animal Keepers’ Forum . Third Class postage paid at Topeka, KS. Postmaster - Please send address changes to: American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc., 3601 S.W. 29th Street, Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614 - attn: Barbara Manspeaker, Administrative Secretary AAZK Executive Director: Ed Hansen, AAZK, Inc., Topeka KS BOARD OF DIRECTORS Scott M. Wright, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland, OH 44109 Jacque Blessington, Kansas City Zoological Gardens, Kansas City, MO 64132-4200 Diane Callaway, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo, Omaha, NE 68107-2200 Jan Reed-Smith, John Ball Zoological Garden, Grand Rapids, Ml 49504-6100 Kevin Shelton, The Florida Aquarium, Tampa, FL 33602 Linda King, Dallas Zoo, Dallas, TX 75203 Bruce Elkins, Indianapolis Zoo, Indianapolis, IN 46222-0309 Ric Urban, Prospect Park Wildlife Center, Brooklyn, NY 1 1225-3707 President Vice President Immediate Past President COMMITTEES Nominations& Elections Chair - Sheri Leavitt, Galveston, TX Conservation. Preservation & Restoration Grants Chair - Jan Reed-Smith, John Ball Zoo Annual Conferences Coordinator - Ed Hansen, AAZK, Inc. Conference Program Chair Jeffrey Phillips, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Awards Chair - Janet McCoy, The Oregon Zoo MEMBERSHIP SERVICES L.l.N.K. System Kevin Shelton, The Florida Aquarium (Board Oversight) Asst. L.l.N.K. Coordinator Wayne Hazlett, Milwaukee County Zoo Enrichment Committee Chair -Lee Houts, Folsom City Zoo By-laws Chair - Gisela A. Wiggins, North Carolina Zoo Ethics Chair - Ric Urban, Prospect Park Wildlife Cntr. Research/Grants Chair - Jan Reed-Smith, John Ball Zoo Bowling for Rhinos Chair - Patty Pearthree, Cary, NC Marketing Resources/Development David Luce - The Living Desert ADTForms and EDTForms AAZK Administrative Offices/Topeka AAZK Historian Mark Levin, Philadelphia Zoo Animal Behavior Management Beth Stark, Toledo Zoo International Outreach - Jeannette Beranger, Roger Williams Park Zoo (Chair/Coordinator International Assistance); Kathy Kelly, Silver Springs, MD - Project M.A.R.C. (Making A Realistic Contribution) PRESIDENTIAL ADVISQRS/LIAISONS AZA Liaison Ed Hansen, AAZK Executive Director Elephant Managers Association Liaison Marie Galloway, National Zoo Zoo Registrars Association William K. Baker, Jr., Frank Buck Zoo AZAD Liaison Richard A. Cirelli, Bergenfield, NJ CAZA Liaison Oliver Claffey, Toronto Zoo Int'l Marine Mammals Trainers Association Dave Force, Sea World of California AMAZOO Liaison Gilberto Gomez, Portland Zoo AZH Liaison Virginia Wall, North Carolina Zoo AAZK PUBLICATIONS - CONTINUING DATA COLLECTION Zoo Infant Development Project - Nell Bekiares, Cincinnati Zoo (Birds/Passerines) Biological Values for Selected Mammals. 3rd Edition - Jan Reed-Smith, John Ball Zoo of Contents About the Cover/Information for Contributors 542 Scoops & Scuttlebutt 543 - 545 From the President 545 AAZK Announces New Members......... 546 Coming Events 547 ABC’s Column: Secondary Reinforcers 548 - 550 French Zoo Seeks Keeper Exchanges 550 A Survey of Operant Conditioning in AZA Institutions 551 - 557 Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust Summer School Info 557 Election 2001 558 Reactions Column: Emergency Housing for Animals 559 - 560 Care of a Critically 111 Infant Gorilla 561 - 563 Enrichment Options: Hanging Cage Feeder 564 - 566 New E-Groups Formed 567 Legislative Update 568 - 570 Chapter News Notes 571 - 572 Puppies for Sadie: A Red Wolf Success Story. 573 - 574 Opportunity Knocks. 575 - 576 Election Nomination Forms BLUE INSERT JA.6out the Cover. This month’ s cover features a Tortuga Island diamond rattlesnake (Crotalus tortugenis) drawn by Paul Kmiotek, a keeper at the Queens Wildlife Center, Flushing, NY. This species is endemic to Tortuga Island which is located in the Gulf of California, Mexico. This snake, like all rattlesnakes, is a pit viper and locates its prey by means of a heat- sensing cavity, or “pit”, located on each side of its head, between its eye and its nostril. These pits are highly sensitive, able to detect temperature variations as small as two tenths of a degree Celsius. Also, due to the positioning of the pits on the snake’s head, it is able to triangulate on its prey, much like binocular vision, and determine the distance, as well as the direction, of the target. Thanks, Paul! Animal Keepers ’ Forum publishes original papers and news items of interest to the animal keeping profession. Non-members are welcome to submit articles for consideration. Articles should be typed or hand-printed and double-spaced. Authors are encouraged to submit their manuscripts on a disk as well as in hard copy form. Acceptable formats include: for Macintosh users - Microsoft Word or Works; IBM users - Word for Windows, WordPerfect or Wordstar. All illustrations, graphs, charts and tables should be clearly marked, in final form and should fit in a page size no greater than 5.5” x 8.5” (14cm X 22cm). Literature used should be cited in the text (Brown, 1986) and alphabetically in the final bibliography. Avoid footnotes. Include scientific name (as per ISIS) the first time an animal name is used. Thereafter use common name. Use metric system for weights and measure-ments (standard equivalents may be noted in parenthesis). Use the continental dating system (day-month- year). Times should be listed as per the 24-hour clock (0800, 1630 hrs. etc.). Glossy black and white or color prints (minimum size 3” x 5” [8cm x 14cm] ) are accepted. Clearly marked captions should accompany photos. Please list photo credit on back of photo. 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 and FAX contributions of late- breaking news or last-minute insertions are accepted as space allows. However, long articles must be sent by U.S. mail. Phone 1-800-242-4519 (US); 1-800-468-1966 (Canada); FAX (785) 273-1980. 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. Reprints of material appearing in this journal may be ordered from the editor. Back issues are available for $3.00 each. AAZK Website Address: www.aazk.org Bulletin Board Access: type “aazk” in member name box; type “Elvis” in password box. BFR Website: http://www.bfr.aazk.org 542 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 Scoops & Scuttlebutt Chapter Meets *‘$2000 in 2000” Challenge The Metro Boston AAZK Chapter recently donated $2000.00 to the AAZK Endowment Fund. They join AAZK Chapters from Portland, Akron, Indianapolis, Seattle (Puget Sound) and Denver in meeting the “$2000 in 2000” challenge issued by AAZK President Scott Wright last February. The AAZK Board of Directors applauds the efforts of these Chapters in meeting the challenge, and also recognizes the contributions of many other AAZK Chapters and individual members towards the fulfillment of the Endowment Fund goal. Together we can make it happen! Facilities Managers Seek Help With Questionnaire Questionnaires for the Facility Design Resource Notebook (FDRN) will soon be arriving in the mail. This project is supported by the Aquarium and Zoo Facilities Association (AZFA). We request that ANY institution housing animals file forms for as many of their exhibits as possible. Please remember that we can learn from each other. Although we want to share information on successful exhibits, we would also like to share unsuccessful information as well. This notebook is being developed as a reference in the design and construction of animal enclosures and support facilities. It will provide general information to compliment a comprehensive research program for design of new zoo and aquarium exhibits. For more information on the project, or for additional forms, please visit the AZFA web site at WWW. AZFA. org< If you have questions contact Mary Wykstra Ross at mwvkross@xmission.com< AAZK Announces Availability of Two Different Granting Programs The American Association of Zoo Keepers announces the availability of two granting opportunities: The Conservation, Preservation and Restoration (CPR) Grant - This $1,000.00 grant is designed to encourage and support efforts in conservation conducted by keepers and aquarists in zoological parks and aquariums around the world. Members of AAZK, Inc. in good standing are eligible to apply and receive this grant. The member MUST have an active role in the conservation effort submitted for consideration. The Zoo Keeper Grants in Research - Two $750.00 grants are funded to encourage and support noninvasive research conducted by keepers in zoo and aquarium settings. The principal investigator MUST be a full-time keeper and a member in good standing of AAZK, Inc. Deadline for application submission for either grant option is 31 May 2001 Successful grant recipients will be announced at the AAZK National Conference in Toronto, Canada in early October 2001. The grant cycle runs from 01 January 2001 to 31 December 2001. For further information or an application packet visit the AAZK website at WWW. AAZK. org. or contact Jan Reed-Smith, AAZK Grants Committee Chair, John Ball Zoo, 1300 W. Fulton, Grand Rapids, MI 49504; e-mail: irsotter@iserv.net: Fax: (616)336- 3709. Be certain to specify whether you are requesting information on the CPR or Research Grants. San Diego Plans 13th Non-Domestic Neonatal Symposium The purpose of this forum, planned for 7 March 2001, is to facilitate information exchange among caregivers of non-domestic species. We encourage participation from those Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 12, 2000 543 involved in the rearing of any non-domestic neonates, including marine and terrestrial mammals, as well as avian and herpetological species. We invite both oral and poster presentations on any aspect of artificial rearing that may affect neonatal growth and development. Topics of interest include, but are not exclusive to, reintroduction, maternal- infant behavior, enrichment, nutrition, artificial incubation, disease pathologies, medical concerns, physiology, special interest case studies, or general husbandry. Interested individuals please contact Karla Michelson, San Diego Wild Animal Park, (760) 735-5530, kmichelson@sandiegozoo.org Elephant Reproductive Monitoring Video Available The Indianapolis Zoo has had two African elephant births via artificial insemination this past summer. They were the world’s first African elephant births using artificial insemination. Debbie Olson, Director of Elephant Conservation at the Indy Zoo, stated the success and easy labors of Kuba and Ivory were due to their excellent physical condition and excellent training by the staff. She also noted that this has been a ten- year process working within a free contact system of management. They have produced an elephant reproductive monitoring training video for use by all zoos. It can be applied in free contact, confined contact, and protected contact as defined by AZA. The material is free and a request may be sent to the Indianapolis Zoological Society, do Jeff Peterson, 1200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46222 or via e- mail tojpeterso@indyzoo.com Also by phone (317) 630-2093 or fax (317) 630-5153. Topeka Zoo Seeks Audio Enrichment Assistance We are in the process of implementing an audio enrichment program at the Topeka Zoo. We would like to provide a more enriching environment for our animals by using animal sounds to stimulate natural behaviors. We have several locations around our zoo that are equipped with audio systems which allow us to provide this type of enrichment. Our goal is to involve zoos throughout the country in this program. We are asking for assistance from other animal care staff in sending us recordings of animal vocalizations from your institution. Ultimately we hope to create an audio enrichment library at our zoo and would share this resource with other institutions upon their request. We would appreciate any contributions and resource information that you would be able to provide. Send recordings or direct questions to: Fawn Moser, Topeka Zoo, 635 SW Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606 (785) 271-0537; e-mail - fmoser@topeka.org Tree Kangaroo Training Info Sought - from Jacque Blessington I am currently working on a training section for the Tree Kangaroo Husbandry Manual. If you have trained with your tree kangaroos I would greatly appreciate any input you may have. I would like to have this information compiled by February 1, 2001. Please contact me at Jacsprat65@aol.com or 816-513-5700 (Kansas City Zoo) Efforts to Bring Back *DQWN UNDER* Column Back to AKF Underway I am interested in reviving the Down Under section that used to appear in the Animal Keepers’ Forum. This section would appear either monthly or as requests are received. Geoff Underwood from the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and Carla Srb from the Healsville Sanctuary would like to act as a resource for questions and answers for animals that are found “down under”. I would like to extend a thank you to them for attending the Australasian Workshop and offering to help us out. I would appreciate any input, this is a resource for the membership. Contact Jacque Blessington at: Jacsprat65@aol.com or 816-513-5700 (Kansas City Zoo). 544 Animal Keepers’ Forum, VoL 27, No. 102 AAZK 2000 Conference Wrap-Up - from Beth Pohl, Conference Chair WOW! It’s hard to believe the 2000 National AAZK Conference held in Columbus is over. It seems to have been a success. We’ve had a lot of positive feedback. In case you missed it - there were over 30 paper presentations, 12 poster presentations and 10 workshops that packed four days full of information and ideas. As well, we were able to offer several keynote speakers that filled us in on a range of topics from ethnobotany to the current crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. All told there were about 270 registrants, including representatives from the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Spain, Australia, Jerusalem, Germany and France. This represents the first time AAZK’s International Outreach Committee was able to bring all these representatives of other zoo keeping organizations together. Hopefully it will benefit us all by being able to network with organizations outside of North America. The silent and live auctions raised about $7000 dollars. Over $900 dollars was raised for the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy during the live auction with the sale of photographs of the people and wildlife of Africa provided by Chris Thouless. We’d like to thank all the attendees at the conference. If you have any suggestions, comments or ideas please feel free to contact Beth Pohl at Bpohl@columbus.rr.com and we’ll make sure they get passed on to the Toronto and Kansas City conference committees. From the President . . . . On behalf of the AAZK Board of Directors and the staff at Administrative Offices I would like to wish all of the membership a Happy Holiday Season and also a very joyous New Year. With each new year we often make resolutions that we know we will probably not be able to keep, but we do it anyway. Often our new year’s resolution is a promise to ourselves to lose weight or to give up a habit that we are rather fond of but wish we could leave behind. I would like to suggest we all set a simple resolution; to do the best we can do each and every day. Each day is a new chance to start over and makethat day better then the last. You can apply this to you personal and your professional life. I hope your new year is filled with days better then the last because you chose to make them better ! During the National Conference in Columbus and in the Forum we made an oversight that I would like to correct. We forgot to include Andy Jakobsky in our acknowledgement of his role on the Conference Committee. I would like to thank Andy for his work on that committee and also thank him for his understanding of our oversight. This year’s Conference brought together keepers from around the world. I had the pleasure to speak with many representatives from other zoo keeper associations and was very happy to share some time and thoughts with them. Zoo keepers from around the world share many common goals and dreams. One is to share their knowledge and experiences with other zoo people. To this end the international contingency of zoo keepers proposed a International Zoo Keeper Conference in 2003. The plans already are starting to fall into place. What a concept. If we can all get together for a conference just think of the other posibilities. Can Global Bowling for Rliinos be far behind ? Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland,OH Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 545 AAZK Announces New Members New Professional Members Gail L. Rice, Beardsley Zoo (CT); James Putnam Efthimiou, Queens Wildlife Center (NY; Marc D. Anderud, Buffalo Zoo (NY; Maia Ekstrom and Donna Huber, Zoo Atlanta (GA); Ryan Carrigan, Miami Metro Zoo (FL); Carmen C. soles, Hardee Co. Animal Refuge (FL); Maureen Meslovich, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo (OH); Thomas Ness, Great Plains Zoo (SD); Kim Cruden and L. Katy Landry (Audubon Park Zoo (LA); Sandy Kirchhoff, Little Rock Zoo (AR); Nicholas Buske, Caldwell Zoo (TX); Christopher Oldham, Catamount Creek Mountain Lion Center (CO); Jean Kelly amd Cynthia D. Gunther, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (CO); Jama Kasowicz, The Phoenix Zoo (AZ); Michael Bergondy, Southern Nevada Zoological Park (NV); Sarah Leeg-Risley, Santa Ana Zoo (CA); Joel Gillespie and Amy Exceen, Wildlife Safari (OR); Andrew Antilla, Woodland Park Zoo (WA); Michel LeBlanc, Biodome de Montreal (Quebec). Renewing Contributing Members Steve H. Taylor, Director Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Cleveland, OH New Institutional Members Queens Wildlife Center Corona, NY Robin Dalton, Director Wildlife Safari Winston, OR Joe Montisano, CEO/Executive Director Renewing Institutional Members Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo Fort Wayne, IN Jim Anderson, Director Dickerson Park Zoo Springfield, MO Mike Crocker, Director MOVING? Please let us know when you change your address! It costs AAZK 99 cents every time an AKF is returned because of an incorrect address. Call 1-800-242- 4519 (U.S.) or 1-800-468-1966 (Canada) or e-mail aazkoffice@kscable.com to report your new address. THANKS! Note of Correction: In the October issue of AKF, page 440 under Websites to Check Out - there was an address error in “Links to Interest Keepers” - the correct address is http ://ar aneum . mudservices . com/veeder/ keeper.html Note of Addition: Tina Whitney, Brookfield Zoo, author of the article “Color Discrimination Match-To-Sample Tasks as Behavioral Enrichment for a Yucatan Miniature Pig” (July 2000 AKF pg. 297) inadvertently omitted the Acknowledgement section of her manuscript. It should have read as follows; “We thank G. Mikenas, M. Pruett-Jones, G. Granat, T. Sullivan, and J. Brown for providing useful comments on this manuscript. S. Margulis provided assistance with statistical analysis and manuscript comments. G. Morgan, M. Knitter, J. Brown, J. Kainz, and S. Becka provided training support. We thank J. Schultz for photographing the task set-up. Squiggy was acquired from porcine breeders, Panepinto and Associates, Inc., Masonville, CO.” 546 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 Comirtg Events 9th SEAZA Conference - South Eastern Zoo Association - 7-10 January 2001 in lliolo, The Philippines. For further information contact: e-mail: zpo@mozart.inet.co.th Wolf Handling & Chemical Immobilization - 18-20 January 2001 at California Wolf Center, Julian, CA. For more information contact Mark R. Johnson, DVM, Wildlife Veterinary Resources, Inc. at wildlifevet@gomontana.com or call (406) 586-4624. VIII International Otter Colloquium - 20-26 January 2001 in Valdivia, Chile. The lUCN/SSC Otter Specialist Group and Universidad Austral de Chile announce a meeting of the lUCN/SSC Otter Specialist Group and VIII International Otter Colloquium. For more information contact: Dr. Gonzalo Medina Vogel Institute de Ecologia y Evolucion Universidad Austral de Chile Casilla 567, Valdivia, Chile. Phone: +56/63 293061 (office); Fax: +56/637221344; Cell:+56/ 09/468893 ;Email: gmcdina@valdivia.uca.uach.cl Or visit the Website @ www.ottercolloquium.cl Ecology and Conservation of Mini-Antelope - 12-17 February 2001 in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. An international symposium on duiker and dwarf antelope in Africa. Hosted by the Marwell Zimbabwe Trust. For further information contact: aplowman@paigntonzoo.org.uk Fourth Annual Wildlife Exhibitors and Breeders Conference 2001 - 15-17 February 2001 in Gainesville, FL. Hosted by The Lubee Foundation and sponsored by The Zoological Consortium of MD, Inc. Will include field trips, talks, good food and networking with other professionals. For more information and registration materials contact Richard Hahn, 1894 Eucalyptus Ave., Arcadia, FL 34266; fax (863) 494-5408; e-mail ZOOCONSORT@DESOTO.NET< To present a talk or for program information contact John Seyjakat at (352) 485-1250, Lubee Foundation, 1309 NW 192 Ave., Gainesville, FL 32908. International Association of Avian Trainers and Educators Ninth Annual Conference - 1-4 March 2001 in Orlando, FL. For more information visit www.IAATE.org or contact Barbara Heidenreich at barbnei@aol.com or call (407) 938-0847. 13th Non-Domestic Neonatal Symposium - 7 March 2001 in San Diego, CA. For information contact Karla Michelson, San Diego Wild Animal Park; phone: (760) 735-5530, e-mail - kmichelson @ sandiegozoo.org Second European Zoo Nutrition Conference - 6-9 April 2001in Southampton, UK. More detailed information about the program and registration/abstract submission deadlines is available at http://www.marwell.org.uk To join the conference mailing list, send your contact details by email to: Nutrition2001 ^marwell.org or by post/fax to: Zoo Nutrition 2001, Marwell Zoological Park, Owslebury, Winchester, Hampshire, S021 IJH, United Kingdom. Fax: (0) 1962 777511. The Animal Behavior Society’s 13th Annual Meeting - 14-18 July 2001 at Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR. Plenary speakers include Eliot Brenowitz, Harry Greene and Ellen Ketterson. Symposia include “Aggression and Group Organization in Animal Societies”, “Behavioral Genetics for the Next Decade”, “Detecting and Measuring Mating Preferences”, and “Song Learning”. For further information see: http://www.animalbehavior.org/ABS/Program, or contact the local hosts Andy Balustein (blaustea@bbc.orst.edu) or Lynne Houck (houck@bcc.orst.edu). Association of Avian Veterinarians (AAV) Conference & Expo - 21-25 August 2001 in Orlando, FL. AAV has issuesd a Call for Papers for this meeting. Theme of the eonference is “200 1 : An Avian Odyssey”. Call (303) 756-8380, fax (303) 759-8861 or submit via Internet at www.ConferenceOffice.com/aav. THE ^ GOURMET RODENT RATS AND MICE Bill & Marcia Brant 6115 SW 137th Avenue Archer. FL 32618 (352) 495-9024 FAX (352) 495-9781 e-mail: GrmtRodent^Jaol.com ® Ail RJ^ts Reserved Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 547 ABC's A^nimal Behavior Concerns S' Solutions A Question and Answer Forum for the Zoo Professional By Diana Guerrero, Independent Behavior Consultant Ark Animals of California, San Diego, CA Question American Zoo. We have some new trainers on board, can you give us some guidance and clarify the training term “secondary reinforcers?” Answer Earlier columns in this series, “Common Training Errors” may be useful to you. If you would like to submit specific questions for your new trainers I would be happy to help, until then I am going to focus on defining secondary reinforcers and only touch on a few of suggestions for integrating novice trainers. Used in the training context, a reinforcer is an3d:hing that increases the behavior it immediately follows. It reinforces the likelihood that the behavior will occur again. Primary reinforcers are innately reinforcing to an animal. Trainers commonly use food as the primary reinforcer. Water, sex, etc., might also be considered primary reinforcers. Secondary reinforcers become reinforcing through the association with a primary reinforcer. This means that initially a secondary reinforcer might not have any significance to an animal. One example of a secondary reinforcer is the bridge. Your facility might be using clickers, whistles, lights, specific tones or words, or you might have specific actions that serve as a bridge. These are all examples of a secondary reinforcer. They are a link to the primary reinforcer and so also become reinforcing. One way to think of a secondary reinforcer is as an lOU. Used efficiently it allows you to quickly communicate without having to dispense primary reinforcement at that exact moment. The trick here is that you have to train the secondary reinforcer, just as you would any behavior, before you can use it. The bridge is trained through consistent application and presentation with food (or primary reinforcement). So, if you use a tone, pair it with the presentation of the food. (I prefer to use small tidbits for a “flavor burst” to coincide with the bridge since I do not want the animal chewing, spending excessive time eating it or becoming satiated too quickly.) Each time the animal gets a tidbit; the tone is sounded at exactly the same time. Watch for the “light bulb.” This is the point when the animal forms the association between the presentation of the food and the bridge. They seem to “click” into understanding the link. That is when the first association is formed. Eventually you will wean away from “one tone equals one tidbit” into a variable reinforcement schedule, but that is another column. 548 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol 27, No. 12, 2000 Terminology confuses many new trainers because secondary reinforcers are also called conditioned reinforcers, alternative reinforcers, etc. There are at least a half a dozen more names used to add to your bewilderment! Stick to using the terms secondary or conditioned reinforcer to avoid confusion. Secondary reinforcers go beyond being the bridging stimulus into different types of reinforcement options. This is what makes training even more interesting and variable to the animal (and the trainer). If the animal has no food drive (lacks motivation to work for food) it is useful to know what these are. Depending on the species, other types of activities can be used as secondary reinforcers. Some of the common activities can include social interludes, tactile variations, play or related desirable items or actions. Having a multitude of options at your fingertips makes training your animal easier and more interesting. Examples of some of these options could be mist sprayers, rubdowns, grooming or preening, games, and a variety of tactile or activity variations. In my experience there are some animals with a stronger drive for social interactions or attention than with food. Having said that, you will also find individuals that have little or no interest in play or interactions. In many cases, once trained to accept these options as secondary reinforcers the animals can become more playful and interested in interactions both inside and outside of the training application. Remember that these efforts can take time if you have a difficult animal to motivate. Another benefit of using a secondary reinforcer is that it can help you out in your timing efficiency. The blow of a whistle is a lot easier than trying to accurately toss a tidbit to a moving creature! When you are shaping behavior, timing is critical. If you are late, you riiight be reinforcing something different from the behavior you are after. Just a couple of notes on starting novice trainers. Begin with simple activities so they don’t have to be coordinated on all levels at once. Remember that there is a lot to remember and think about. Positioning, proper delivery of physical and verbal SD (Discriminative Stimulus), pairing of tidbit with bridge, timing of it, etc. Start your beginners off so that they are successful and not overwhelmed or frustrated. Another pitfall to avoid with new trainees is excessive chatting during a session. Questions are g^’^at because it shows interest and drive, however make sure that they know that it is best to wait until after the session. Why? Because training efforts and your animals require full attention. To help your new trainers, and add to your collection of secondary reinforcer options, have them get familiar with the natural history and behavior of the species that you all are working with. Glancing through training notes on individual animals and having a training forum where everyone shares their knowledge of your specific animal quirks are other useful activities. Finally, remind new trainers to avoid pushing their relationships with the animals too far or too fast. Certain animals might be accepting of touch or interactions from certain trainers but not all of them. It will be much safer if your new people understand the differences between the individual animal temperaments and tolerances. Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 12,, 2000 549 Former Columns of Interest Guerrero, Diana. Common Training Errors 101: Reinforcement & Punishment. Animal Keepers’ Forum. AAZK. Voi. 25(06) June 1998. Guerrero, Diana. Common Training Errors 101: Moving Ahead Before A Behavior Is Stabilized. Animal Keepers’ Forum. AAZK. Vol. 25(01) January 1998. Guerrero, Diana. Common Training Errors 101: Understanding Applications of the Bridge & Bridging Criteria. Animal Keepers’ Forum. AAZK. Vol. 24(09) Part One: Sept 1997. Guerrero, Diana. Common Training Errors 101: Understanding Applications of the Bridge & Bridging Criteria. Animal Keepers’ Forum. AAZK. Vol. 24(10) Part Two: Oct 1997. Guerrero, Diana. Common Training Errors 101: Confusing Consistency With Predictability. Anima/ Keepers’ Forum. AAZK. Vol. 24(03) March 1997. (About the Author: Since 1978, ARKANIMALS.COM Director, Diana Guerrero has worked professionally in a variety of animal facilities. Attending and completing courses in both animal management and training from institutions both here in the United States and Europe, she has been affiliated with some of the best organizations. She is an alumni of The Moorpark College Exotic Animal Training & Management Program, The Gentle Jungle Animal Affection Training School, The International Training Centre at the Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust, and special program extensions with Marwell Zoological Park and Kent University. Guerrero started her career in the marine mammal field working as a naturalist, and subsequently became involved with terrestrial animals in zoos and other facilities. Guerrero writes a variety of animal-related columns, including the popular series. Unusual Animal Careers and does seminars nationally. Watch for two of her book projects in the summers of 1999 and 2000! Questions for ABCs should be submitted to Diana directly via e-mail:> arkabc@arkanimals.com< or via regular mail to ARKANIMALS.COM, P.O. Box 1154, Escondido, CA 92033 USA.) F rench Zoo 3gg ks K Gopor Exch anaGS The Paris Zoo (France) would be interested in a 2-3 week keeper exchange program with zoos from the USA. The Paris Zoo would welcome keepers from participating institutions and would offer housing during their stay in Paris. Keepers from both institutions will learn and work with other keepers. Our collection includes large mammals (elephants, large ungulates),primates (specially rare lemurs including Aye Aye and Sifakas), carnivores and birds. We have 43 keepers working at the zoo in five different departments: Bovids/giraffes, big rock/ big cats, elephants/bears, lemurs, Monkeys/ zebras. Interested institutions can contact: Alexis Lecu or Florence Ollivet, Parc Zoologique de Paris, Service Veterinaire, 53 Avenue de St Maurice, 75012 Paris, FRANCE Tel 33 1 44 75 20 00 Fax : 33 1 43 43 54 73 E-Mail : pzpveto@.mnhn.fr 550 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 A Survey of Operant Conditioning in AZA Institutions By Shane Good, Animal Keeper Cleveland Metroparks Zoo 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, OH 44109 Sj g@Clevelandmetroparks . com The use of operant conditioning to train animals for husbandry, interpretation, and research is increasing in AZA institutions (Sevenich, 1995). However, this increase has not resulted in substantial quantitative research of operant conditioning. The goal of this survey was to provide documentation of the prevalence of training programs in AZA institutions and how they have been implemented in different zoological parks. This article is a summary of a paper that was recently presented at the 2000 AZA Central Regional Conference. Due to the increasing use of operant conditioning and the prominent role of animal keepers in these programs, I feel that it is important to make this information available to the readers of the Animal Keepers’ Forum. A complete version of the paper can be found in the 2000 AZA Conference Proceedings. Materials and Methods In April 1999, a 20-item survey was distributed to the 1 86 institutions listed in the 1999 American Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Directory. A second round of surveys were circulated to the institutions that did not respond by October 1999. The survey questions addressed: (1) the existence of training programs at each institution, (2) the type of staff used to perfomi and coordinate operant conditioning, (3) whether training is required or optional for all or particular species, (4) how training has been implemented at each institution, (5) the role of outside consultants, (6) protocols, (7) the use of operant conditioning as animal enrichment, and (8) the types of behaviors being trained. Results Of the 186 institutions surveyed, 160 (86%) responded. All respondents did not answer all questions; therefore the number of respondents for each question is listed with its corresponding table. Some responses were not useable and therefore not included in the analyses. Some questions had more than one possible answer, and this is also noted in the corresponding tables. The results are presented in a table format. A complete version of the results can be found in the original paper. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 551 Table 1. Operant conditioning in AZA institutions, A. Does your institution have an official operant conditioning program? (N = 1 60) Yes No, but we do perform some operant conditioning No, but we may implement a program soon No, we have no plans for a training program 62 (38.8%) 77 (48.1%) 12(7.5%) 9 (5.6%) B. We have had our operant conditioning program in place for the following number of years: (N = 62) 1 - 2 years 3-5 years 6-10 years 11-20 years 20 (32.3%) 16(25.8%) 11 (17.7%) 4 (6.5%) 21 -30 years 3 (4.8%) 30+ years 3 (4.8%) Did not answer 5 (8.1%) Table 2. Who coordinates arid performs operant conditioning in AZA institutions? A. What is the title of the person who coordinates your operant conditioning? (N = 160) Keeper 27 Intern 1 Training Coordinator 19 Graduate Student 1 Curator 41 Veterinarian 1 Director 3 Did not apply 10 Consultant 3 Did not answer 19 Animal Care Manager 10 Unusable answer 20 No Coordinator 5 B. Who perfomis operant conditioning at your institution? (More than one possible answer) Full-time trainers 27 Consultants 1 Animal keepers 140 Veterinarian 1 Education staff 2 Director 1 Curator 5 Volunteers 1 Interns 4 Did not apply 10 Research technicians 1 552 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No, 12, 2000 Table 3. Is training required in AZA institutions? A, Is training required at you institution? (N = 1 60) Required 29(18.1%) Optional 43 (26.9%) Required for some animals 78 (48.8%) Did not apply 10(6.3%) B. If training is required for some animals, but not others, which animals require training? (N = 78) (More than one possible answer) elephants 45 carnivores 10 rhinos 22 meercats 1 birds 23 warthogs 1 marine mammals 46 koalas 1 hoofstock 26 otters 5 primates 39 fish 3 Table 4, Effects of operant conditioning on animal keeper positions. A. Are keepers rewarded or compensated as if training were an extra duty? (N = 1 60) Yes 8 No 142 Did not apply 10 B. Is training included as a component of keeper job evaluations? (N = 160) Yes 77 No 73 Did not apply 10 C. Do keepers who train animals receive higher pay than those who do not? (N = 160) Yes 0 No 150 Did not apply 10 D. When operant conditioning was implemented at your institution, how were training needs accommodated? (More than one possible answer) Jobs were re-structured to provide additional time for training 22 Training was added to the staff’s traditional duties 1 1 8 Additional staff was hired to accommodate training needs 1 7 Did not answer question 7 Training is done and paid for on an overtime basis 1 Did not apply 10 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 553 Table 5. The use of consultants for operant conditioning programs. A. Has your institution ever hired a consultant to advise your training program? (N= 160) Yes 71 (44.4%) No 89 (55.6%) B. How often were the consultants used? (N = 71) One visit 27 9- 10 visits 0 2 -4 visits 19 more than 10 17 5-6 visits 6 did not answer 1 7-8 visits 1 C. Were the consultants hired to advise a specific area or every area? (N= 71) All areas 23 Specific areas 48 D. The 48 institutions that hired consultants for specific areas hired them for: than one possible answer) Elephants 34 primates 15 Rhinos 0 carnivores 6 Birds 5 domestics 1 Marine mammals 18 koalas 1 Hoofstock 3 Table 6. Is there an official written protocol for operant conditioning at your institution? (N = 160) No written protocols Written protocols for some areas Written protocols for all areas Table 7. Does your institution consider training to be a form of animal enrichment? (N = 160) 84 (53.0%) 61 (38.1%) 15(9.4%) Yes, but other types of enrichment must still be provided Yes, and can be done in place of other types of enrichment No, not a form of enrichment Did not answer 125 (78.1%) 3 (1.9%) 27(16.9%) 5 (3.1%) 554 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 Table 8. The types of behaviors trained in AZA institutions. A. What types of behaviors are trained at your institution? (More than one possible answer) Show behaviors 78 fun/enrichment 3 Husbandry behaviors 139 natural behaviors 2 Medical procedures 128 increased visibility 1 Research procedures 8 B. Are all categories of training considered to be of equal importance? (N Yes 49 Priority is given to certain categories 90 C. The 90 institutions that prioritize training, give priority to: Show behaviors 4 show and husbandry 3 Husbandry 23 natural behaviors 1 Medical procedures 12 show and medical 1 Husbandry and medical 45 medical and research 1 D. If training includes blood draws, who are most likely to perform the blood draw? (More than one possible answer) Veterinarian 98 management staff 6 Vet technician 35 full-time trainers 1 Animal keepers 53 - did not apply 53 Discussion The response rate of 86% for this survey should justify generalization to all AZA institutions. However, some of the questions were more likely to suffer from self-report bias. For example, the question regarding the use of operant conditioning as enrichment may reflect the respondent’s opinion instead of the institution’s official policy. It is my hope that the large sample size (160) reduced the effects of any such bias. The majority of AZA institutions are performing some kind of operant conditioning. Most of these institutions have implemented training within the last 1 0 years. It would be interesting to know the reasons some zoos do not perform any training (i.e. budget constraints, time constraints, lack of qualified personnel). The contrast of institutions that do and do not perform training could also be made (i.e. large vs. small zoo, zoo vs. aquarium vs. animal park, etc). There is a wide range of the type of staff used to coordinate operant conditioning. This appears to be relative to the size of each institution and its staff. The majority of institutions use animal keepers to perform operant conditioning. However, a small portion of the institutions uses full-time animal trainers. It would be interesting to know if the number of full-time trainers increases in the future. Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 555 There was also a wide variation in the number of institutions requiring training or making it optional. The most common policy is for training to be required for some species and optional for others. Elephants, marine mammals, and primates are the most common species that have training as a requirement. Further research should determine the reasons these institutions require training for specific species. The questions regarding the effects of operant conditioning on animal keeper workloads revealed some sensitivity from the respondents. Apparently, some felt that the questions implied that keepers should be paid more for performing animal training. The questions originated from the fact that some zoos actually do compensate keepers, as if training is an extra duty. However, no institutions reported paying higher wages to keepers for performing training. Some institutions voluntarily explained what compensation was given to keepers. These responses included; preference to attend conferences, overtime pay to accommodate training needs, and consideration for obtaining higher keeper levels. The overall majority of institutions have added training to the original workloads of their keeper staffs. The effects of this trend probably differ for each institution. However, if significant time is dedicated to training, there is a possibility that it comes at the expense of traditional keeper duties. It is up to each institution to determine its own specific needs and priorities. Interestingly, most animal keepers perform training as part of their regular duties, but only 48% of the respondents reported that training is a component of keeper job evaluations. Less than half of the respondents (44.4%) reported the use of outside consultants. There was a large variation in the frequency for these institutions to use the consultants, ranging from one visit to more than 10. Consultants were usually hired to address specific needs (67.7%) instead of an institution’s entire program. The overwhelming majority (70.8%) of institutions having specific needs reported elephant training as a reason to hire outside consultants. It is not clear if this trend is due to the use of “protected contact” as a form of elephant management. The increase in the use of operant conditioning has not resulted in a common use of protocols for training programs. Fifty-three percent of the respondents reported having no protocols for animal training. It will be interesting to know if the use of protocols increases in the future. Additionally, standardization of protocols between institutions should be a topic of future research. The use of operant conditioning as a form of animal enrichment is a source of debate among animal care professionals. However, the majority of the respondents (80%) reported that training is considered a fonn of enrichment. Interestingly, one respondent claimed that training is the only form of animal enrichment used at her zoo. The overwhelming majority of institutions using operant conditioning use it for behaviors involving husbandry ( 1 00%) and medical procedures (92. 1 %). Show behaviors are trained at 56. 1% of the institutions. The current trend appears to be training is used as a management tool more often than as a source of public entertainment. 556 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 27, No. 12, 2000 The survey findings suggest that operant conditioning is an important part of animal management in AZA institutions. The use of operant conditioning in AZA institutions has increased dramatically over the last 10 years. Future research will be needed to document the changing trends of operant conditioning as an animal management tool. In conclusion, (1) the number of AZA institutions performing operant conditioning has dramatically increased over the last 10 years, (2) animal keepers have a prominent role in the coordination and implementation of animal training programs, (3) elephants, marine mammals, and primates are currently the top training priorities in AZA institutions, (4) outside consultants have been used by almost half of the AZA institutions, usually to address specific training needs, most commonly elephant training, (5) and operant conditioning is most commonly used for husbandry and medical purposes. Acknowledgements Thank you to the 1 60 individuals who took the time to respond to this survey. Thank you to Dr. Tammie Bettinger for reviewing the survey and assisting with the analysis. The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo provided all of the funding and resources for this project. References Sevenich, M. 1995. Guidelines for animal training programs. American Zoo and Aquarium Association Regional Conference Proceedings: 742-747. Wheeling, WV. Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust Summer School 16 July to 3 August, 2001 This is an intensive course aimed at zoo staff, students and lay people with a strong interest in conservation and/or captive breeding. A combination of lectures, workshops and project work provides participants with a deeper understanding of endangered species management and how zoological institutions can be an aid to species survival. Closing date for applications 31 January, 2001 For further information contact: The Summer School Co-ordinator, Durrell Wildlife Conservation Tmst, Trinity, Jersey, Channel Islands JE3 5BP Tel: 01534 860037 Fax: 01534 860002 Artist: Dave Morgan E Mail: itc@, durrell.org Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 12, 2000 557 ELECTION. 2001 Yes! It is once again time to elect Board of Directors for the Association. There are three positions up for election. Those positions are held by Jacque Blessington, Bruce Elkins, and Scott Wright whose terms end with the 2001 Conference. New Board members will serve a four-year term from the close of the 2001 National Conference until the conclusion of the 2005 National Conference. If you or any one you know would like to be nominated for these positions please send your forms to Sheri Leavitt, NEC Chair, UTMB Galveston, 301 University, Galveston, TX 77555-0621; or fax them @ 409-772-8453. All nominations need to be received no later than February 28, 2001. For information or questions, please call me at 409-772-9977 or 281-484-2217. If you have ever wanted to make a difference in AAZK, now is the time to step up to the plate and give us your best. Duties of the Board of Directors For a more detailed explanation of the expanded duties of the Board, refer to the By-Laws (available upon request from Administrative Offices in Topeka, KS). 1) Select, appoint or remove officers, committees, agents and employees of the Association, including - prescribing powers and duties. 2) To control and manage the Association and its property, passing upon acquisition and disbursements with approval of a majority of the Board. 3) To formulate policies, rules and regulations in accord with the Constitution & By-Laws. 4) To uphold the Constitution of AAZK and the policies of the Association. 5) To appear at Board meetings, to accept Board assignments and to devote the time to communications pertinent to all Board business, including answering correspondence promptly and efficiently. Qualifications for Nomination 1) Nominee must be a Professional Member of AAZK, Inc. in good standing and must have been a member of the Association for at least one year. 2) Nominee must be presently employed as an animal keeper/attendant, veteri- nary technician, research technician or other personnel directly connected with the care, feeding and educational display of captive wildlife in a recognized zoological park, aquarium, animal reserve or other animal care facility in the U. S. or Canada and must have been in the zoological field for at least two years. 558 Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 21, No. 12, 2000 Nomination Procedure 1) Nominator Form: a. List the name of the nominee, phone, address, and institution. b) State in 150 words or less the reason(s) why the nominee warrants election to the Board of Directors. c) Nominator signs forms and mails to NEC Chairperson. d) Notifies nominee that they nominated him/her for the Board of Directors. 2) Nominee Biographical Form: a) Professional background: places of employment, length of service, titles. b) Membership in AAZK: National and local Chapters, number of years, offices held, involvement in activities. c) Educational background. d) Membership in Affiliate Organizations: (AZA, CAZPA, Audubon, etc.) e) State in 500 words or less why you would like to be on the BOD and any other pertinent information, (optional) f) References (one or two) g) Nominee signs forms and mails to NEC Chairperson. NOTE; Candidate is ineligible for nomination if both the nominator and nominee biographical forms are not complete and returned to the NEC Chairperson by 28 February 2001 . Send to: Sheri Leavitt, NEC Chair, UTMB Galveston, 301 University, Galveston, TX 77555-0621; or fax them @ 409-772- 8453. Nomination Form for AAZK Board of Directors Qualifications for Nomination; 1) Nominee must be a Professional Member of AAZK in good standing and must have been a member of the Association for at least one year. 2. Nominee must be presently employed as an animal keeper/ attendant by a recognized zoological institution or aquarium in the U.S. or Canada and must have been in the zoological field for at least two years. 1. Name of Nominee: Address: Phone: E-mail: Institution: Director: 2. State in 150 words or less the reason(s) why the nominee warrants election to the AAZK Board of Directors. 3. Signature of Nominator: 4. Form must be received by the NEC Chairperson by 28 February 2001. Send to: Sheri Leavitt, NEC Chair, UTMB Galveston, 301 University, Galveston, TX 77555-0621; or fax them @ 409-772-8453. Nominee Biographical Form for AAZK Board of Directors 1. Name: Address: Phone: E-mail: PLEASE LIST THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION 2. Professional Background: (places of employment, length of service, titles) 3. Membership in AAZK: a) National: number of years Activities: b) Local Chapter(s): number of years, offices held, involvement in activities. 4. Educational Background: 5. Membership in Affiliate Organizations (AZA^ Audubon^ WWF, CAZPA^ etc.) 6. State in 500 words or less why you would like to be on the BOD and any other pertinent information (optional/use addi- tional paper if necessary) 7. References (one or two); give name, address and phone number where they can be reached: 8. Nominee's Signature: 9. Form must be received by the NEC Chairperson by 28 February 200 L Send to: Sheri Leavitt, NEC Chair, UTMB Galveston, 301 University, Galveston, TX 77555-0621; or fax them @ 409-772-8453. £ /i r / o ^ /f (lH5fioiafdAismforuMfort/i£too Frofyssfoia/oiCrmffaia^eKeit By William K, Baker, Jr., Zoo Curator Frank Buck Zoo, Gainesville, TX Question What options are available for emergency or temporary housing for animals? Comments Housing zoological specimens under normal circumstances is often challenging enough, but housing them under abnormal circumstances can result in tapping every last shred of your professional creativity. Take it as a given that at some point every zoological facility will have a need for emergency housing. This can be due to a situation as simple as the temporary relocation of animals for emergency repairs to an exhibit, exhibit renovation, or up to something more complex as the separation of animals due to conspecific aggression. The situation will dictate how extensive an investment of time, energy, and especially finances is required. If that sounds like an oversimplification of the parameters, it really isn’t. For example, if an exhibit loses primary containment and a small group of gazelles are loose in a service area, they can easily be contained by closing the gates to the area or be redirected to an empty holdover. In the purest technical sense, the animals have been housed. Another example would be the relocation of small mammals into a shipping container or crate for a temporary period of time for annual exhibit maintenance. The question that must be asked in both circumstances is how long will the animals need to be in holding? In an ideal situation, a zoo would have extensive holding facilities for conservation research, quarantine, or surplus purposes. This type of facility would have all the appropriate bells and whistles, such as night houses, water, electrical, and the capability to separate animals due to behavior problems or veterinary needs. The problem is this type of set up inherently requires a significant financial outlay for an area that will be used on an infrequent basis at best. Still, other options do exist that are effective and capable of resolving the problem. First, let’s set the stage for something realistic in terms of a crisis. The most likely crisis that would result in the need for emergency housing would have to be a natural disaster. Examples of this would include avalanche, flooding, tornado, hurricane, and landslide. Any one of these events has the capability of damaging or destroying the primary containment of an exhibit, thereby releasing the animals. The simplest way to contain an animal or group of animals would be the use of directed barriers. For more agile or airborne species such as small mammals, primates, or birds. Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 12, 2000 559 containment or mist nets can be very effective once supported and secured to the ground. Unfortunately, both of these methods have a serious drawback, while they are both simple and cost effective, they do not provide for any real shelter or housing. In other words, this method is only realistic for short-term applications. For more long-term housing, building materials will have to be used. This will require lumber, nails, screws, mesh, netting, fencing material, hardware, and extra locks. The lumber and such is pretty self-explanatory. However, mesh, netting, and fencing materials require further discussion. Mesh can be found in a variety of types that is application specific. Cyclone fencing in 6-gauge is effective. Hardware cloth and lighter gauge mesh would be suitable for smaller mammals, birds, and reptiles in terms of containment. But, in many cases wooden holding boxes may prove more appropriate for species specific needs. Prevailing weather conditions will also have to be factored into the equation. Nest boxes will undoubtedly be needed for many species. Canvas tarps can be used for area shelter for larger mammals. Larger mammals can be contained using prefabricated panels of 2”x4”, 6-gauge mesh. This is usually available in 4”x8” and 4”xl0” sizes. This material will contain hoofstock and small to medium sized carnivores when reinforced with 4”x4” posts. These panels are normally floor stock items at most farm and ranch supply houses. Netting comes in a variety of styles and applications. Lighter netting such as poultry netting is applicable for game birds and waterfowl. The heavier custom netting, which is used for exhibits, can be stored rolled until it is needed. This material is available from numerous AZA Commercial Members and is effective for a wide range of specimens including carnivores and large primates. Examples would include both Carlos and Cascade products. Hoof stock applications can be met by using Powder River or Priefert panels. These have been used for domestic and exotic purposes for many years due to their flexibility and ease of transport. One of the neatest products on the market in years is available from Priefert. They now offer roofed portable caging units in a kennel style. These units are covered in powder coated 2”x4” mesh and are suitable for birds, small primates, and smaller carnivores. The real advantages to this system is that it can be set up in a series of connected linear units and broken down into stackable panels for easy storage. However, in a pinch, trailers, shipping crates, and Vari-Kennels® will work. The key is to invest the time in advance to identify the needs of the collection. Considering your options after the fact is definitely not the way to handle emergency housing for your animals. Mega herbivores such as elephants, giraffes, and rhinoceros will require extensive advance planning to identify needs in relation to behavior. Next Month: Can attitude make a difference before, during, and after a crisis situation? 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, Tbpeka, KS 66614Attn: Reactions/AKF. (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.) 560 Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 21, No. 12, 2000 By Saudi Shoemaker Animal Keeper: Memphis Zoo, Memphis, TN (Formerly: Oklahoma City Zoo) The birth of a gorilla is an exciting event for a zoo, and that birth is especially momentous when it can contribute to the diversity of the gorilla populations in zoos. On 2 July 1995, Fern, a 36-year-old gorilla, gave birth to a male infant at the Oklahoma City Zoo. Fern is a wild-born gorilla brought to the zoo in 1972. The father, Moemba, was also a wild-born gorilla who came to the zoo in 1962. While Moemba had sired several offspring. Fern had only one infant survive to adulthood. Due to Fern’s age and the concern for adequate milk production, the decision was made to raise the infant, Mojo, in the nursery. Seven full-time keepers worked to give Mojo and Acacia (a six-month old gorilla who was already in the nursery) around-the-clock care. The plan was to raise the two gorillas together to aid in socialization and reintroduction back into the adult group. For the first three months everything seemed to be proceeding normally. Mojo was developing the intense, determined personality typical of a male gorilla, and Acacia was very interested in watching this new addition. The introduction between Acacia and Mojo began in October 1995 when Mojo was three months old. Unfortunately, in December of that year, Mojo began to exhibit some disturbing symptoms. His abdomen was distended, and he was showing signs of discomfort through teeth grinding and irritability. Within 24 hours he became feverish and began to vomit after nomial feedings. His gums and tongue turned from pink to gray. The zoo veterinarians. Dr. Mike Barrie, and Dr. Kay Backues, examined Mojo and detennined that he had an enlarged spleen. Blood samples sent to Children’s Hospital in Oklahoma City showed anemia, a low platelet count and “blast cells” (immature blood cells). He was immediately given a transfusion of his mother’s blood to help combat the anemia. On 14 December, a bone marrow scan confinned the diagnosis of “Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia.” At that time there was no information available for the treatment of leukemia in gorillas. The prognosis was uncertain, but without treatment there was virtually no possibility of survival. Dr. Nitschke, the head of oncology at Children’s Hospital in Oklahoma City, volunteered to consult with the zoo veterinarians in designing a treatment based on the current treatment of human infant leukemia. Mojo was immediately started on IV fluids to combat dehydration and to facilitate the treatment. The initial success of the chemotherapy program was promising. Within days there was a noticeable decrease in the size of his spleen and he seemed to be much more comfortable. The leukemia had stopped spreading; remission had been achieved. The next phase of the plan was to ensure the initial success with further chemotherapy through an IV port surgically placed under the skin of his left side. He received chemotherapy in crushed pills hidden in rice cereal, baby food, or bananas, IM injections, and IV treatments. One of Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 561 the concerns with the many injections was Mojo’s suppressed immune response. There was a high risk of infection through the injection sites and the IV port. Over time Mojo did contract various infections that slowed the treatment schedule and necessitated IV antibiotics. He also began to have some of the same side effects as those 'j exhibited in humans treated with chemotherapy. His appetite dwindled, and his fur began to thin. His lack of appetite was a major concern. In addition to keeping him strong enough for the treatments, there were oral medications that were very difficult to administer without food. His keepers tried to devise new methods of tempting his appetite with a ' variety of fruits, breads, and j yogurt, but in December a naso- ' gastric tube had to be installed ^ to keep him nutritionally fit and adequately hydrated. There was great concern that he would | not tolerate this inconvenience. For the first few days the nursery staff was constantly on guard to keep him from pulling the tube out. Two days after the tube was placed, Mojo ignored it and only noticed it when it got in his way while playing. His ability to quickly adapt to the new “additions” surprised everyone. Except for occasional irritability, he continued to play energetically and act like a normal infant gorilla. In March, it was evident that simultaneously introducing Acacia and Mojo into the adult group was not going to take place. The infants’ introduction to each other had been put on hold in October due to Mojo’s treatment, and Acacia needed to begin her reintroduction to the adult gorilla group. Mojo seemed to be doing very well. Various infections had slowed the progress of the treatments, but the infections had been cleared and the chemotherapy was continuing as scheduled. His appetite was returning and he seemed to be improving in energy levels. However, on 5 April his abdomen once again began to tighten and his comfort level decreased. A bone marrow scan confirmed that the leukemia had returned. To achieve a second remission the chemotherapy treatments would have to be intensified, and the chances of survival were remote. The difficult decision was made to suspend further treatments. At 562 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 that time he seemed comfortable and continued to play energetically, but without treatment the disease progressed very quickly. Ten days after the first symptoms had reappeared, j Mojo seemed to be depressed and in pain. The decision was made not to prolong his discomfort. Mojo was euthanized on 15 April, 1996, four months after his diagnosis with leukemia. I Conclusion There are countless difficulties in prolonged treatment of an active young animal. With gorillas, nimble fingers and very curious hands magnify these difficulties. This effort also consumed a lot of keeper and veterinarian time. The keepers were on eight-hour shifts, 24 hours a day to monitor Mojo’s treatments, and the vets made frequent midnight trips back to the zoo. Because of the precise nature of the medication schedule, the keeper staff was called upon to administer some of the treatments through the IV ports, and to monitor the IV lines. The naso-gastric feedings were also difficult for one keeper to do alone. Another major concern raised was Mojo’s future. To prevent a relapse, his treatment would have had to continue for years. Regular treatment of a 3 - 5 year old male gorilla would have been a challenging prospect. Medical attention for a chronic illness also takes a huge toll on the keepers involved in the daily business of animal care, especially when that care is focused on one young animal. Care must be taken to keep a close eye on the animal’s quality of life, and to know when the time has come to end the struggle. Mojo had been on exhibit in the nurseiy for the five months prior to his illness. When he was suddenly removed from display, regular zoo patrons had a lot of questions. Once the press release was made about his condition, the community showed a lot of support and interest in his welfare. Because of the connection to the Children’s Hospital through Dr. Nitschke, the zoo received hundreds of get-well cards and special correspondence from children all over the world who were being treated for cancer or leukemia. They seemed to really connect with Mojo, because his treatment was so close to their own. An endeavor of this magnitude takes a lot of commitment and dedication by everyone involved. The keepers involved in Mojo’s 24 hour care were: Eddie Witte, Doug Latham, Barbara McFadden, Vonceil Hannon, Sandi Shoemaker, Brian Whitsitt, and Danny Lawrence. We would like to thank Dr. Nitschke, the surgeons, and the many others who volunteered their time and resources to this endeavor. Although the treatment had limited success in this case, I believe that we learned a lot about infant gorilla behavior in the treatment of a serious illness, and it is our hope that this will be the first step in understanding leukemia in great apes. For further information regarding the medical aspects of this case refer to: Barrie, Backues, Grunow, Nitschke. “Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia in a Six-Month-Old Western Lowland Gorilla”. Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine. 30(2): 268-272, 1999. Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 12, 2000 563 HMENT&fet )^rj^B«htviofAl Enrichment *mT'fr^\'K>vYds4y Aclivlly M*nipu)»ilon J1 J10l^2> Occup»tioiul Husbandry w By Gretchen Ziegler, Sequoia Park Zoo and Jan Roletto, Utah’s Hogle Zoo Feeding Devices Approximately one year ago one of our keepers designed a hanging eage feeder for our orangutans. Motivated by his desire to see the orangs foraging in the ‘trees’, he designed a simple circular feeder (dimensions: 17" high; 12" across; 41" around) made of 2"X 2" weld mesh (gauge = 1/4”). Airline cable (3/16") is attached to the cage which in turn is fed through a pulley approximately 25 feet from the ground on the main climbing structure in their exhibit. The cable is then locked in place at a low spot on the jungle gym. The cable has never caused problems for the orangs but it does fray, making it necessary to replace it eveiy few months. At $30.00 per 1000 feet, the replacement cost for the cable is negligible. According to our maintenance department, the price per cage is approximately $30.00 (Canadian). Accessing the cage is easy. It is hinged and closes by threading an iron rod through aligning rings that is then locked in place. Baiting the cage is limited only by a keeper’s imagination. Our orangs love peanut butter jars and giant juice blocks. Even our 42-yearold male has been observed hanging from the gym checking our the contents of the cage. A word of warning. These feeders are heavy, and once baited can be difficult to suspend. But the effort is well worth it to see arboreal orangs. The cage was so successful that two more were made for the holding area. These weren’t as sturdy, and as a result were bent by the orangs (the weld mesh used was only 3/16"). They have since been modified and are holding up nicely. After watching the orangs enjoying their feeders, we decided to tiy two in with our pair of white- handed gibbons. These are on a much smaller scale (12" high; 7" across; 2 1 " around) but are attached to their gym in the same way. The design is different with solid tops and bottoms. The tops come off j and a mesh insert can be removed for cleaning. These inserts can also be changed to smaller or larger j mesh depending on how difficult you wish to make the device. The airline cables haven’t caused j problems with the gibbons nor have they frayed. Again, peanut-butter jars are a success, but something as simple as lettuce keeps them busy off and on all day. j In our Africa section the mandrills are enjoying the small cage type. Soon we will be giving a slightly ! different design to our lion-tailed macaques. This version will have the option of either hanging i freely or resting on the ground. Karyn Tunwell Senior Keeper, Indomalaya Toronto Zoo Toronto,Ontario, Canada 564 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 27, No. 12 , 2000 An orangutan forages for treats hidden inside peanut butter jars within one of the hanging cage feeders being utilizd at the Toronto Zoo. (Photo by Karyn Tunwell) A hanging feeder cage was built on a smaller scale to be used with the Toronto Zoo’s white-handed gibbons. This photo shows the feeder filled with romaine lettuce. (Photo by Karyn Tunwell) Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 565 This closeup of the primate hanging cage feeder shows the airline cable which is used to hang the feeder in the animal’s exhibit. Approximate cost per cage is estimated at $30 (Canadian) (Photo by Karyn Tunwell) (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 materials for the Enrichment Options Column. This might include recipes, toys, puzzle feeders, olfactory enrichment ideas, etc. Drawings and photos of enrichment are encouraged. Send to: AKF ! Enrichment, 3601 SW 29th St., Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614-2054. Eds.) ( \ Visit the AAZK Enrichment Website - www.enrich.org/aazk or to join the Enrichment Listserve, email jackbell@humboldtl.com An archive of past postings may be viewed at www.caza.org/enrich 566 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 Hleiir E-Groups Formed The following are announcements of new e-groups which have been recently established: Reptile Keepers |i The reptile keepers list is intended for reptile and amphibian keepers in zoos and/or aquariums, i although anyone with an involvement in herpetology is welcome to join and participate. Herp-related information, zoo-related information, conservation topics are welcomed. If intrested in subscribing to list go to: http://www.egroups.com/group/reptilekeepers Penguin Keepers List for keepers, rehabers, etc. to share information and advice on penguins, husbandry and captive management, etc. To post a message: penguinkeepers@,egroups.com To Subscribe: penguinkeepers-subscribe@.egroups.com To Unsubscribe: penguinkeepers-unsubscribe@.egroups.com List owner: penguinkeepers-owner@,egroups.com URL to this page: http://www.egroups.com/groups/penguinkeepers Neonate Keepers Useful forum for those who work in a nursery, or who are suddenly presented with a newborn of some sort and need some info quickly! To subscribe: Neonates-subscribe@egroups.com • Zoo Historians Forum open to discussion of zoo history, all zoos, worldwide - questions, answers, discussion! Go to Zoo-Historians@,egroups.com Zoo Educators "ERNIZE" is a discussion group for Zoo Educators around the world. If you are a Zoo educator and are interested in joining, send a message with some information about yourself to ernize@chesterzoo.co.uk In other Web News: • Foster Parrots Ltd. has been established in order to avoid the problem of euthanasia in the pet parrot population. Check out their page at: http ://www. fosterparrots . com/ • Looking for sound files? Check out the following: http://www.findsounds.com/ or http:// members.tripod.com/Thryomanes/AnimalSounds.html • The world's most endangered whale, the northern right whale, now has a new website http:// www.rightwhales.org to promote public awareness and "encourage visitors to take political action" says ENS 10/27. Thanks to the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), the new campaign hopes to urge the governments of the U.S. and Canada to take stronger measures to protect the whales which continue to decline and could be extinct by 2200. • Annotated Database on Refinement of Housing and Handling Conditions and Environmental Enrichment for Laboratory Animals. Part I: Amphibians, Cats, Degus, Dogs, Ferrets, Fishes, Gerbils, Guinea pigs. Hamsters, Mice, Pigeons, Rabbits, Rats, Reptiles Viktor and Annie Reinhardt http:// www.awionline.org/lab_animals/biblio/refine.htm • All about gibbons: The website of the Gibbon Research Lab. offers an introduction to the natural history of the gibbons or small apes (Hylobatidae), a review of gibbon systematics and gibbon singing behavior,a comprehensive photo and sound gallery of all gibbon species, news and complete research articles on various aspects of gibbon biology, and a list of gibbon-related links. http://www.gibbons.de Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 567 LegtsCdtvve 'Itpdate Compiled by Georgann Johnston Legislative Advisor Sacramento, CA il Ir d V li li 1 lllllllllllll 1 1 1 1 1 i b yjlip HIM iifi^^nii Mil 1 Ml^ ll Black-Footed Ferrets Released in South Dakota Black-footed ferrets (Mustela nigripes), the only ferret species native to North America, are considered by many to be the most endangered mammal on this continent. As of the ; mid 1980s there were only 18 ferrets alive, due in part to plague, poisoning and loss of | prairie habitat. Now, there are about 600 of these animals in captivity - held in facilities ! including the National Zoo Conservation Research Center. These mammals live in prairie dog dens and are nocturnal hunters of their host species. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and more than three dozen other federal, state, and local agencies have worked to develop a captive breeding program and coordinate release of these ferrets back into the wild. While releases of some members of • the captive-bred population have occurred before, this current project is unique in that the ferrets were let go on a Sioux reservation in South Dakota. In addition to the normal hazards presented to ferrets in the wild - such as predation by coyotes and owls - many ranchers and landowners have opposed the release, claiming that the release of the ferrets would “fuel efforts to protect the prairie dog, which they say ruin grazing land.” USFWS representatives as well as other people involved in the reintroduction effort have expressed concern for the survival of the ferrets, stating that a successful release will be to have 25 percent of the released animals survive their first winter. (Prior releases have occurred in states with more temperate climates.) A total of 38 ferrets were released on the Cheyenne River Sioux reservation, an area about the size of Connecticut, in October. It is just wait and see now how well the release program works out. Source: Topeka Capital- Journal Online 28 October 2000 Goodall Helps Pressure Congress Towards Protection of Great Apes Jane Goodall, world-renowned naturalist and researcher of the various species of great apes, is backing two measures that will better protect these various species of primates from extinction. One is The Great Ape Protection Act (Miller, CA) that creates an annual federal fund of $5 million for conservation research. The bill has passed both the House and the Senate and is headed towards the President for signature. Again, as with many conservation and other “fiscal” measures - the enactment of the law does not provide the actual funding - which will have to come from the Department of the Interior that is responsible for conservation of endangered species. Other advocates for wild primates including Christina Elllis, coordinator for the Congo Basin Project of the Jane Goodall Institute, stated that: “I think it is great for the U.S. government to be saying that. While we don’t have wild apes in our country, we see their value as a population. Not only will the money support conservation projects in the field, but it will also improve the status of chimps we have benefited from in our own country.” Part of the Great Ape Protection Act is the Congo Basin Project, which aims to stem the bushmeat trade - the killing of apes and other forest mammals for human consumption 568 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 I — by looking at community development and the logging industry as a whole. In an editorial recently published in the Washington Post newspaper, Goodall wrote: “For me personally this crisis is particularly shocking. At the turn of the last century there were i some two million wild chimpanzees in Africa. When I began my chimpanzee research in 1960, there must still have been way over a million. Today it is estimated that there are, at most, 150,000 chimpanzees remaining —probably no more than 120,000. And, for other primates, the situation is even more alarming.” Goodall also directed statements to the Flouse and Senate on Capitol Hill in which she said that: “We need to continue to increase the awareness to the general public, and in particular to the administration and the Congress of this country, because here there is great power. It’s very important that more and more people begin to know so that more and more people can sit around and use their brains, their minds, to solve a problem of such terrif3dng proportions. The more I think about this problem, the more terrifying I find it.” Source: Environmental News Network 26 October 2000 Uganda Trying to Attract Bird Watchers Uganda, a country with a generally mild climate and a mix of habitats and species among its lakes, rivers, swamps, forest, savannahs and mountains, is undertaking an effort to attract tourists for bird watching. The Uganda Tourist Board has issued a declaration that is will attempt to “diversify the country’s tourism products” beyond the past emphasis on the mountain gorillas. More than 1,000 bird species have been recorded in Uganda and most are clustered in the parks of the southwest portion of the country — near the gorilla habitats. The country hopes that an emphasis on bird watching, sport fishing and whitewater rafting —along with the chance to see the gorillas in the wild - will bring in much needed revenues for park maintenance and for increased employment for Ugandan citizens. Source: African Wildlife News Fall 2000 vol. 35 no. 4 Congress Passes Bill to Save Everglades Just as the 106th Congress was breaking for their fall election campaign in their home states, a bill was passed to give protection to the Florida Everglades. The bill authorizes and secures funding for a number of projects to return the natural quantity, quality, timing and distribution of freshwater to the Everglades. The multi-year project will return the natural flow of water to the “River of Grass” and improve the habitat for 68 threatened or endangered species of birds and other wildlife. The bill now goes to President Clinton for signature. It provides for approximately $7.8 billion over 30 years for nearly 60 projects that will restore, preserve and protect the Everglades ecosystem. More information about the bill and its current status in the President’s office may be obtained by emailing Shannon Mayorga of the Audubon Society at smavorga@audubon.org Source: Audubon Advisory List 6 November 2000 Study Finds Nontoxic Shotgun Pellets Decreasing Deaths in Waterfowl The USFWS has recently completed a study following up on the 1991 ban on the use of lead shot for waterfowl hunting. The Service claims that the ban has had “remarkable success” and has prevented the premature death of millions of birds that might otherwise ingest the shot and die from lead poisoning. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol 27, No. 12, 2000 569 Based on a study covering the Mississippi Fl3rway, researchers estimate that the ban on lead shot reduced lead poisoning deaths of mallards by 64%, while overall ingestion of toxic pellets declined by 78% over previous levels. In sum, the report issues by the USFWS concludes that by significantly reducing lead shot ingestion in waterfowl, the ban prevented the lead poisoning deaths of approximately 1.45 million ducks in the 1997 fall migration of 90 million ducks. Additionally, the report states that approximately 462,000 to 615,000 acres of breeding habitat would have been required to produce the same number of birds that potentially were saved by nontoxic shot regulations during that year alone. “The results of this important report suggest that the ban on lead shot has been a resounding success for the health of waterfowl populations, and has almost certainly contributed to the record numbers of waterfowl we have seen in recent years. I’m proud that the Service took the initiative in phasing out lead shot for waterfowl hunting, and continues to expedite the approval of nontoxic alternatives to lead shot for hunters,” said Service Director Jaime Rappaport Clark. Clark also pointed out that the ban on lead shot has probably also benefited more than 27 other bird species in which lead poisoning has been documented, including bald eagles. Bald eagles have been found to be particularly vulnerable to lead poisoning because they often feed n the carcasses of hunter-crippled and lead-poisoned waterfowl. The Service has now published a proposed rule in the Federal Register extending the temporary approval of tin shot for the 2000-2001 hunting season. Permanent approval was given to tungsten-matrix shot in September 2000, giving hunters a choice of five nontoxic shots for the upcoming season. Source: USFWS Press Release 18 October 2000 Conservation Group Reports 11,046 Species in Peril A total of 11,046 plants and animals risk disappearing forever, according to the most comprehensive analysis of global conservation ever undertaken, the World Conservation Union’s 2000 Red List of Threatened Species. The report examined 18,000 species and subspecies around the world, but scientists acknowledge that even a study of this magnitude only scratches the surface. Earth is home to an estimated 14 million species- -and only 1.75 milion have been documented and scientists believe that many may become extinct before they are even identified, much less assessed by the scientific community. Conservationists estimate that the current extinction rate is 1,000 to 10,000 times higher than it would be under natural conditions. The primary reason is human activity with expanding cities, deforestation, agriculture and fishing posing significant threats to the planet’s biodiversity. In the last 500 years, 816 species have disappeared. Some species exist only in captive settings like zoos and wildlife parks. With 11,046 more species at significant risk of becoming extinct and 4,595 species on the brink of being declared threatened, conservationists are gloomy. “This extinction crisis that we’ve all been talking about for a long time looks as if it is fast becoming a reality,” said Craig Hilton-Taylor of the World Conservation Union’s British branch. “And it is a far more serious problem than ever anticipated.” According to the 2000 Red List, one of every four mammals and one in every eight birds is at risk. Source: the Record Online 1013100 570 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 Dallas AAZK Chapter So far the year 2000 has been a busy and productive one for the Dallas chapter of AAZK. With donations, T-shirt sales and a silent auction, Bowling for Rhinos brought in over $7300.00. Money raised from our Conservation Parking Meters and can recycling allowed us to donate $450.00 to the center for Ecosystem survival, and $250.00 to bongo conservation. Other fundraising efforts this year include the “It’s Gotta be Green” Luncheon on St. Patrick’s Day, a garage sale, book sale. Endangered Species chocolate sales, and our annual Halloween Chili Cook-Off and Pumpkin Carving Contest. We were also pleased to sponsor a research presentation by Crickette Sanz, a doctoral student at Washington University - St. Louis, studying hormone levels in wild chimpanzees. Chapter officers this year are: President Rochelle Willison Vice President Jay Pratt Treasurer Jeanette Boylan Secretary Jennifer McClurg Chapter Liaison Bonnie Hendrickson -Bonnie Hendrickson, Chapter Liaison Chapter News Notes AAZK Welcomes New Chapter The Association is pleased to welcome the North Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter. The Chapter is affiliated with the Claws ‘n’ Paws Wild Animal Park, RD 6, Lake Ariel, PA 18436. Officers for the new Chapter are: President Shelley Harvey Secretary Ellen Kerrigan Gordon Treasurer Chris Shupp Greater Baltimore Chapter We have been very busy this year! The Chapter has designed Christmas cards again this year. Excellent drawings by keeper Corey Fuhrer will be selling for $8.00 per pack of six cards/envelopes. If anyone is interested in seeing the designs or purchasing cards, please contact Tammie Anderson at the Baltimore Zoo (410) 396- 7636. Our Humanitees Fundraiser raised a profit of over $200.00. I’m sure large Chapters could do even better. Check out their website at: www.humanitees.com or call 1- 800-275-2638. They have lots of free stuff which we use for BFR prizes and bonus money. Chapter member Bette Jorden created “I helped save a tiger” buttons which we gave away with donations of $1.00. The money raised was donated to the Hornocker Institute for Siberian Tiger Conservation. We have raised over $400.00 for this worthy cause (buttons cost $40.00 for 200 unassembled). We also helped our bird department create and sell buttons to raise money for the penguins at SanCobb. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 571 Our Photo Contest was better than ever this year. The Chapter received $975.00 in photo submissions for pictures taken at the Baltimore Zoo. We donated $100.00 to help the Chinese Alligator and donated $500.00 to the Zoo to purchase transponders for the box turtle tracking project and for the purchase of PVC for enrichment projects. We are next ready to help the reptile department set up and sell buttons for the Golden Frog Conservation efforts. — Joanne Shaffer, Chapter Liaison Utah Chapter AAZK Greetings from the Greatest Snow of Earth! And yes, we have had quite our share of it in the past few days. Nonetheless, it has not dampened our spirits for the upcoming year. There is something to be said about kangaroos playing in snow. This past year was a great year for the Utah Chapter. We raised $1,500.00 for the Cheetah Conservation Fund through our annual Cheetah Cha-Cha and $7,000.00 for Bowling for Rhinos. Our President, Bethany Lutz, raised $5,500.00 this yearfor BFR. Way to go, Bethany! The Hogle Zoo Recycling Center, which our Chapter services, brought in $800.00. The Utah Chapter has also taken over the duties of servicing the Zoo’s duck feeders, which totaled over $4,000.00. We will be splitting half of that with the Zoo. Other fundraisers included; AAZK Dog Wash - $150.00; pick-up/transport of eucalyptus leaves for the summer exhibitof koalas - $100.00; and valet parking for the Zoo’s Annual Gala Celebration - $510.00. We were also very fortunate to have Laurie Marker from the Cheetah Conservation Fund and Chris Thouless from the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in Kenya visit our Zoo. Each came here this Fall and gave a presentation. Three of our Chapter members attended the AAZK National i Conference in Columbus whichthey j reported to us was very exciting. I; Our Chapter will be holding elections of i' officers and we will also be voting on a new j! Chapter logo and dates for the 2001 j fundraisers. ;| The new year is rapidly approaching us j and promises to be even better than last. We hope that the spirit of the season finds joy in everyone. i Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I -Jen Apa, Chapter Liaison \ I n hut's Your Chapter Been Up To? Do you have new officers? A successful fundraiser? A new logo? Be sure and send in your latest Chapter News to share with the AAZK membership. We want to hear about all the great activities and projects you are involved with, including conservation efforts and professional development. 572 Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 Puppies for Sadie: A Red Wolf Success Story By Mary Jayne Churchill Primary Cat / Wolf Keeper Western North Carolina Nature Center Asheville, NC I am an animal naturalist and primary keeper of the cats and wolves at the Western North Carolina Nature Center. After the death of an older female red wolf {Canis rufus) in the summer of 1999, we received a seven-year-old female from the Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park in Syracuse, NY. Sadie came to us with a history of never having conceived, even after being artificially inseminated. After hearing this news we weren’t sure her chances of breeding with our male would be good. We have our original male, now ten years old, who came to us from Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in Tacoma, WA. He had already fathered puppies while in our care at the Nature Center. After Sadie arrived we kept them separated the first night in side-by- side adjoining habitats. We put them together the next morning after their breakfast. They immediately bonded while she checked out her new surroundings. Over the next several weeks, however, I noticed Sadie showing aggression toward the male. She would snap at him when he approached to sniff her, and she generally had an aggressive attitude. Eight-year-old “Sadie” became a mother for the first time at West North Carolina Nature Center, Asheville, NC. (Photo: ©Tony Dills, WNC Nature Center) The breeding season rolled around and the courting began. Unfortunately our male was the only one doing the courting. I could see the physical signs of Sadie being in heat, i.e. blood stains on her tail and droplets on the ground. I had witnessed no successful breeding attempts as I had in the past with our male’s former mate. Just as I was about to give up Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 573 on any hopes of having puppies at the Nature Center, everything changed. Sadie began to tolerate his presence and I was happy to see them sleeping in the same den together. Maybe there was hope yet. By the end of March Sadie’s abdomen was huge and we were hoping conditions had been right and her luck had changed. During the week of 27 April, Sadie, now eight years old, gave birth to her first litter of puppies. She produced two healthy males weighting 21b. 5oz. each (1.1kg). This also put us in the position of being one of the two breeding facilities that had red wolf pups this year. Since there are 33 breeding facilities, this is pretty significant. Now, at five months of age, the puppies are healthy and still growing under the watchful eye of their mother and the staff at the Western North Carolina Nature Center. i Sadie produced these 0.2 pups during the week of 27 April. This hirth was one of only two red wolf litters born in 2000 at the 33 facilities housing this species. (Photo by ©Tony Dills, WNC Nature Center) Further Zoo Career Links .... A Career Series and information on seminars may be found on http://www.arkanimals.com. This site is specifically slanted for unusual animal careers. The site contains both the series and the outline of topics for the unusual Animal Career series. Arkanimals has also done special focus weekends and trips and will have the seminar information (books and tapes) for sale on the site next year. 574 Animal Keepers' Forum, VoL 27, No. 12, 2000 Institutions wishing to advertise employment opportunities are asked to send pertinent data by the 10th of each month to: Opportunity Knocks/ AKF, 3601 SW 29th St., Suite 133, Topeka, KS 66614-2054. Please include closing date for positions available, and when setting these dates keep in mind that because of bulk-mail, most readers do not receive the AKF until the middle of the month or later. There is no charge for this service and fax ore-mail listings of positions which become available close to deadline are accepted. Our fax is (785) 273-1980; e-mail is akfeditor@kscable.com< We are no longer located at the Topeka Zoo, so please note new address! CURATOR, LIVING COLLECTION. ..ndXiondiWy renowned cultural institution in the NY area seeks a Curator of the Living Collection to maintain and supervise its collection of over 100 animals representing 40 species. The Curator is responsible for caring of animals on exhibit, developing in-house and outreach science programs to schools, families and professionals, and leading the design and development of new exhibits and habitats of the Mini Zoo, employing state-of-the-art techniques in interpretation and design. Qualified candidates must have an M.S.in Zoology or related field with three (3) years experience (or B.S. in Zoology with five [5] years experience) working in animal management. Experience in developing of live animal exhibitions. Grant writing and fundraising experience a plus. EOE. Send resume in confidence to: Human Resources, The Newark Museum, 49 Washington St., R O. Box 540, Newark, NJ 07101-0540; or fax to (973) 642-0459 attn: Muhammed Mamady. NIGHT KEEPER., .requires an A. S. or B.S. degree in a biological science and/or a minimum of one (1) year paid experience in the zoological envvironment. A knowledge of animal nutrition is preferable. Successful candidate will be responsible for diet preparation, animal care, security and light maintenance. Must be able to work a flexible schedule including weekends and holidays. The ability to lift 501bs. is essential. A negative TB test, recent tetanus shot and a valid Florida driver’s license are required. Benefits include paid vacations, insurance and profit sharing plan. Salary based on prior experience and/or education. Send resumes to: Caribbean Gardens, The Zoo in Naples, Human Resources, 1590 Goodlette Rd., Naples, FL 34102; fax - (941) 262-6866; e-mail - info@caribbeangardens.com; website - www.caribbeangardens.com< ELEPHANT KEEPER.. .responsible for the care and daily maintenance of two female African elephants (approx. 17 years of age) in free contact. Must have at least three (3) years experience working with elephants in free contact. Must be able to work elephants for rides and educational program. Also responsible for the daily feeding and care of hoofstock section. Send resume to: Natural Bridge Zoo, R O. Box 88, Natural Bridge, VA 24578. Rhone (540) 291-2420; fax (540) 291-1891. ANIMAL KEEPER/REPTILES. . .non-profit, educational live animal center of a natural history museum seeking dedicated professional individual for permanent position. Requires bachelor’s degree or at least four (4) years experience with exotic animals excluding pets. This position is primarily responsible for reptiles but will also work with other staff to ensure the care and well-being of the entire collection of over 100 small mammals, birds and reptiles. Responsibilities include (under supervision of Head Keeper) daily husbandry, record keeping, training and supervising volunteers, providing medical and special treatment for animals, and performing daily educational programs for the public. This is a 35-hour workweek, possibly including one weekend day and some holidays. Salary is commensurate with experience plus benefits. For more information see website www.acnatsci.org. Send letter and resume to: J. Genovesi, Director Living Exhibits, The Academy of Natural Sciences, 1900 Ben Franklin Pkwy, Rhiladelphia, RA 19103-1195. Animal Keepers’ Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 575 ASSOCIATE KEEPER/EDUCATION. ..wndQx the direction of the Animal Program Manager, this full-time position will be responsible for providing a healthy environment for the Education Department animal collection, which includes a variety of small mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. Duties include animal handling, feeding, cleaning, diet ! preparation, weighing, daily record keeping, enrichment, etc. Requirements: high school | diploma or equivalent; minimum of one ( 1 ) year experience in animal care/animal handling with a variety of animals, including at least six (6) months experience in handling parrots/ j raptors; excellent communication, observation and organizational skills; the ability to work | a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays; ability to lift 50+ lbs.; must possess |j a strong work ethic and a team player attitude. Preferred: experience in small mammal, bird and reptile restraint for routine animal husbandry procedures; minimal carpentry skills; college level coursework in biology, zoology or related field. Position will begin February 2001. Application deadline is 31 December 2000. Applications may be submitted at the Zoo or mailed to: Human Resources, Memphis Zoo, 2000 Prentiss Place, Memphis, TN 38112. Cover letter, resumes and references may be attached. Walk-in interviews, phone | calls are not accepted. EOE. | I GORILLA KEEPER (Assistant to the Director of Animal Care) .. .GonWdL Haven is seeking an experienced ape keeper. Having preferably worked with gorillas, the successful applicant will be familiar with accepted husbandry practices and standards and have the maturity to supervise volunteers and make decisions in a responsible manner. Duties will be varied and include animal care and exhibit cleaning plus overseeing the daily management of the facility i in the absence of the Director of Animal Care. Gorilla Haven is a new facility and offers the opportunity to meet the challenges of growing with the planned expansion to 4 habitats (totaling 25 acres) over 20 years. The position will be available April 2001. Salary commensurate with experience. Please send resume and references to: Pete Halliday, Project Manager/Director of Animal Care, Gorilla Haven, PO Box 210, Morganton, GA 30560 or e-mail to pete@gorilla-haven.org ANIMAL SPECIALIST/M AMMALS...B\xsQh-G?L\diQm-J?im^?i has a full-time position available in our Zoological Department. Interested candidates must be at least 1 8 years old. i We are looking for highly motivated people with strong communication skills who are | team-oriented. Degree in Animal Science, Zoology or related field is preferred but not | necessary. Experience working with hoofstock is a plus. SCUBA certification preferred, li Must be able to obtain a valid Florida’s driver’s license and work a flexible schedule to | include weekends, holidays and evenings. Some heavy lifting required. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, care and maintenance of a variety of animals, operant j conditioning and enrichment of a variety of animals, record keeping and interaction with guests to include animal presentations. Busch Gardens offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits package. In order to be considered send your resume with present salary, | no later than 22 December 2000 to: John Mezzei, Busch Gardens, Human Resources Dept., PO Box 9158, Tampa, FL 33674 or fax to (813) 987-5374. EOE. Positions posted with AAZK, Inc. may also be found on our website at www.aazk.org Also, you may want to check out the AZA Member Institution job listings at http: ! ! www.aza.org 516 Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol. 27, No. 12, 2000 AAZK Membership Application check here if renewal [ ] Name __ Address City State/Province Zip □ U.S. Members $35.00 Professional Full-time Keepers □ Canadian Members $35.00 Professional Full-time Keepers □ $30.00 Affiliate Other staff & volunteers □ $35.00 Affiliate Other staff & volunteers □ □ $30.00 Associate Those not connected with an animal facility $60.00 or up - Individuals Contributing/U.S. □ □ $35.00 Associate Those not connected with an animal facility $60 or up - Individuals Contributing/Canada □ □ $100.00 or up Institutional/U.S. Organizations /Institutions (requires Board approval) International Members $50.00 International All members outside U.S. & Canada regardless of category □ □ $100.00 or up Institutional/Canada Organizations / Institutions (requires Board approval) Library Only 35.00 Library Available only to public & university libraries Zoo Affiliation (if any) Zoo Address Title Work Area □ My check is enclosed (AAZK, Inc.) □ Please charge my credit card MASTERCARD Name on card _ VISA Card # Signature -Expiration date Mail this application to: AAZK Administrative Offices, 3601 S.W. 29th, Suite 133 Topeka, KS 66614. Make checks/money orders payable to AAZK, Inc. Must be in U. S. FUNDS ONLY. Membership includes a subscription to Animal Keepers' Forum. The membership card is good for free admission to many zoos and aquariums in the U.S. and Canada. PRINTED IN U.S A. ©2000 AAZK, INC. c w H 5 O rf ^ * •y V* H" r^ * H. 0 y 3 O t? ^ Uj 0 Si O 0 3 3 N 5J n 0 3 5CJ rS- O ^ H- »-» W n » -? ^ 'I r» 5? 3 c> 3> 3 * S ^ r- 5 js '* r W Z ti 3 C « 9i SJJ H ^s )S % % t \ t % » « 5S k 3 13 0 CO 0 o 0 u 0 JQ c 0 0 0 a n * 5-35 < X i> in u t~> 4ik cn -*4 o w w r ii } i m. lir ■m ■ •■ i 1' ■•<'•1 ■■/. »lic w ^ ‘fM 11’^ .‘•<"v : : ''Yl’i <,'< ' f. '^' :’ ‘ 'V'', ■ ■' .>• J.1' -’.fe ' t!. r ■ M.' ''t;/,";' ■«, , 'J^'v .„,fr • ( * 'I r v''^^. ■' ,v > .'i'v ;'^ I’'; ,' .;UV '■ '■ ’W-u-'" V V ', ft, . ;''i ’•\ 'V' ^Heckiuant^ » 1 N D E R y, N c.J Bound-lb-Please* JULY 01 N. MANCHESTER, INDIANA 46962 ’ ■> v^y' / ' 'l>1