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Executive Editor: Alice Miser Managing Editor: Susan Chan Associate Editor: Ron Ringer JANUARY 1987 VOLUME FOURTEEN NUMBER ONE Animal KeepeAA1 FoAum (ISSN 0164-9531) is a monthly journal of the American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc., 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606. Five dollars of each membership fee goes toward the annual pub- lication costs of Animal KeepeAA’ FoAum. Second Class postage paid at Topeka, KS. Postmaster: Please send address changes to: AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF ZOO KEEPERS, INC. NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS , 635 GAGE BLVD., TOPEKA, KS 66606 Banbana ManApeaken, AdmlnlAtnatlve SecnetaAy BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jean Hromadka, San Diego Wild Animal Park PAeAldent Escondido, CA 92025 Frank B. Kohn, National Zoological Park Vice PneAldent Washington, DC 20008 Oliver Claffey, Metro Toronto Zoo, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Susan M. Barnard, Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30315 Kerry Hoffman, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Tucson, AZ 85743 COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS/PROJECT HEADS Conference Book Committee Phil Pennock, Woodland Rank Awards Committee Rachel RogenA, Miami MetAozoo Book Review Coordinator Kathy Suchanltakul, A kAon loo Legislative Action Committee Beaky RogenA, Topeka loo International Affairs Co-Coordinators and Pam McDougall, Calgany loo (webt) Staff Exchange Elandna Am, Woodland Rank loo Program Library Debbie JackAon, Little Rock loo Exhibit Design Form Diane FonAyth, Aknon loo Keeper Accommodations List Oliver Clayey, M etno Tononto loo Keeper Training Videotapes Wayne Buchanan, Woodland PaJtk loo Continuing Keeper Education Pat SammaAco, Lincoln Pcuik loo Research/Grants Committee Fnank Kohn/Kacl ThompAon, NIP Public Education Committee Jay JaAan, Staten 1 Aland loo AAZK History Committee Ant Goodnlch, San Diego loo - Melba ShleldA, National loo [eoAt] Animal Data Transfer Forms Bennie Feldman, BuAnet PaAk loo Membership Directory Pat SammaAco, Lincoln PaAk loo , Diet Notebook SuAan Bunn, MlnneAota loo Biological Values/Gestation LaAAy Bnalnand, San PAanclAco loo Library Resources Kacl ThompAon, NIP Keeper Training Materials Identification Infant Development Notebook RoAmany Jallnk, M III Mountain loo Steven Wing, Milwaukee loo Reference Search Nominations & Elections Liz McLaughlin, Rogen WllliamA Rank Janet McCoy, Washington Paxk loo loo, Jenny RenttfAou), M aAon, MI CO-DIRECTORS REGIONAL COORDINATORS States East of the Mississippi - Diane Knag, White Oak Plantation, Vulee, FL States West of the Mississippi - Debbena StecheA, Woodland PaAk loo, Seattle, Wi Individual Regional CooAdlnatonA and the AtateA unden thein ovenAlght one luted elAmhene In each Iaauc oft Animal KeepeAA ' Fonum. Tealuned on thl* month.’ a coven l* a Blue.- and- gold Macaw [An a ananauna) dnawn by Ro*e Valazzo o h the Bnonx. Zoo, NV. Macaw* one the longest o\ the neanly 300 member* oh the pannot family which Inhabit the Inoplcal neglon* oh the would. A unique faeatune hound In all pannot *, but not In any othen type oh bind, l* thzln ability to u*e theln h^zl to bnlng hood up to theln mouth*. Macaw* one thought to male h on llhe and unlike many bind *pecle*, the macaw ohh*P/oing may nemaln with theln panent* h0/l quale a long time. Thank*, Ro*e! Scoops and Scuttlebutt AAZK BOARD APPOINTS PROJECT HEADS/COMMITTEE MEMBERS The AAZK Board of Directors recently approved the appointment of Debbie Jackson, Little Rock Zoo, as the new project head for the Program Library. This position was previously held by Anne Payne of the Detroit Zoo who recently resigned The Board also has approved the following individuals to serve on the AAZK Awards Committee under Chairperson Rachel Rogers of Miami Metrozoo: Susan Bunn, Minnesota Zoological Gardens; Harry Hofauer, Metro Toronto Zoo and John Kiseda of the Bronx Zoo. Please note also that it has been incorrectly listed on the front inside cover under Committee/Project Heads that Brint Spencer was Chairman of the Diet Notebook Project. While Brint is working on this committee, Susan Bunn is the Chairperson for the Diet Notebook Project. Our apolog- ies for the error. WINNIPEG CONFERENCE PATCHES AVAILABLE FROM NATIONAL HQ The 12th National AAZK Conference '86 patches featuring the polar bear logo are available from National Headquarters in Topeka. They are white imprint on navy background and measure 3-3/4" by 2-3/4". Cost is $2.50 (US) per patch. Make check or money order payable to AAZK National. The 1986 AAZK Conference Committee in Winnipeg still has some conference T-shirts available for sale. The polar bear logo is printed in off-white on a navy blue shirt (50/50 poly-cotton blend). The cost is $10.00 (US) per shirt and may be ordered through: Conhenence T-Shlnt* , 7 85 Buckingham Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3R 1C3. Checks or money orders for T-shirts should be made payable to: Assiniboine Park Zookeepers Associa- tion . INFORMATION PACKETS AVAILABLE ON "FOUNDER'S WEEKEND11 IN SAN DIEGO The 20th Anniversary "Founder's Weekend" will be held in San Diego from 5-7 May, 1987. A special very limited edition anniversary T-shirt is being printed for the event. See details in December 1986 special edition AKF, page 358. To receive an inf ormation/registration packet, write to AAZK History Committee, c/o Art Goodrich, Mammal Dept., San Diego Zoo, Box 551, San Diego, CA 92112. AAZK is 20 years old - let’s celebrate! 1 SCOOPS AND SCUTTLEBUTT, Continued WOODLAND PARK ZOOOLOGICAL GARDENS TO HOST SECOND WORKSHOP ON "APPLYING BEHAVIORAL RESEARCH TO ZOO ANIMAL MANAGEMENT" The Woodland Park Zoological Gardens, Seattle, WA, will again host a nat- ional workshop titled "Applying Behavioral Research to Zoo Animal Manage- ment" with the assistance of an Institute of Museum Services Conservation Grant. The workshop will be held 18-25 July, 1987, and is especially directed at curatorial, veterinary, and keeper staff from zoos, aquariums, and related facilities. Through lectures, discussions, and actual short research projects, participants will learn skills to conduct their own behavioral studies and to apply the results to specific management prob- lems (e.g. enclosure design, feeding procedures, breeding programs, and veterinary care) . Additional activities include tours of Woodland Park Zoo, Point Defiance Zoo, Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, and the Seattle Aquarium. The workshop will be organized and taught by Carolyn Crockett, Ph. D., University of Washington, Michael Hutchins, Ph.D., New York Zoological Society, and William Karesh, D.V.M. , Woodland Park Zoological Gardens. Jill Mellen, Washington Park Zoo, and a nationally-known keynote speaker will give guest lectures. Enrollment is limited to 40 participants. Registration fee for the 8-day workshop is $80 if paid before 1 May and $100 thereafter. Priority will be given to employees of zoos and related facilities. Registration prior to 1 May will be limited to two applicants per institution based on the order of receipt of pre-paid applications. Overflow applicants will be placed on a waiting list. University of Washington college credit can be obtained for an additional fee. For more information and a registration form write: William Karesh, D.V.M. , Animal Health Department, Woodland Park Zoo, 5500 Phinney Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98103. CHESAPEAKE WILDLIFE SANCTUARY SEEKS TO PLACE CRIPPLED WILDLIFE The Chesapeake Wildlife Sanctuary, a non-profit, independent wildlife rehabilitation center in Bowie, MD (just 15 miles east of Washington, DC) continually has a number of permanently disabled wildlife patients which are available for placement. Possible species available are: Great Horned Owl, Red-tailed Hawk, Bald Eagle, Red- shouldered Hawk, Green Heron, Turkey and Black Vultures, various species of ducks, swans, geese, songbirds and raptors. Send a self-addressed, stammped envelope for more information to: Chesapeake Wildlife Sanctuary, Crippled Wildlife Placement Committee, 17308 Queen Anne Bridge Road, Bowie, MD 20716. Details on the specific require- ments for institutions requesting crippled wildlife and an application form will be sent. AAZPA WESTERN REGIONAL AND CALL FOR PAPERS The Fresno Zoo is hosting the 1987 AAZPA Western Regional Conference from 5-7 April, 1987. The theme for the conference is "Basics Revisited". We are encouraging topics concerning current, developing, or long-forgotten fundamentals which may remain as basics for the future, especially in ani- mal husbandry. Please submit a title and a short abstract by 1 February, 1987. Contact us if you have any questions on papers or session schedul- ing: Scott Ransom, Assistant Zoo Director, or Sean McKeown, Curator of Reptiles, 894 W. Belmont Ave., Fresno, CA 93728, (209) 488-1480. 2 Coming Events THE SECOND INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON BREEDING BIRDS IN CAPTIVITY Feb. 11-15, 1987 Universal City, CA For information contact: I.F.C.A., 11300 Weddington St., North Hollywood, CA 91601 (818) 980-9818. NORTHERN FOREST OWL SYMPOSIUM Feb. 3-7, 1987 Winnipeg, Canada For more information write: Coordinating Committee c/o Marlin W. Shoesmith, Box 14, 1495 St. James St., Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3H 0W9. 6TH ANNUAL NATIONAL WILDLIFE REHABILITATORS ASSOC. SYMPOSIUM March 15-17, 1987 Clearwater Beach, FL For more information contact: Symposium Information, Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary, 18328 Gulf Blvd., Indian Shores, FL 33535 (813) 391-6211, Attn: Barb Suto. GLAZA'S 8TH ANNUAL BOTANICAL & WILDLIFE ART SHOW May 14-17, 1987 Los Angeles, CA For more information contact: Patti Glover, GLAZA, 5333 Zoo Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90027-1498 (213) 664-1100. 10TH MEETING OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF PRIMATOLOGISTS June 13-16, 1987 Madison, WI Hosted by the University of Wisconsin Regional Primate Research Center. To include paper sessions, symposia, posters, exhibits and business meet- ings. Deadline for abstracts is 1 March 1987. Arrangements for university housing are available. Contact the Research Center for deatils. INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN'S ZOO SYMPOSIUM July 1-4, 1987 Philadelphia, PA Hosted by the Philadelphia Zoo. As we all know, keepers are essential for the successful learning experience of the casual visitor to a Child- ren’s Zoo. Keeper participation is also essential for a successful Children’s Zoo Symposium. We would like keepers to present papers and participate in workshops during this symposium. The symposium will focus on History and Philosophy, Design and Learning, and Animal Collection and Purpose. There will be pre- and post-conference trips to the Bronx and Baltimore Zoos plus much more. Registration is $100. For further infor- mation, contact: Robert Callahan, Curator of Children’s Zoo, Philadelphia Zoo, 34th St. & Girard Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19104 (215) 243-1100 Ext. 300. 3 Births^ Hatchings Carol J. Boyd of the Milwaukee AAZK Chapter reports the following births at her facility: On 14 October, 1986, after an 11-year absence, the Milwaukee County zoo again experienced a Reticulated Giraffe birth. This birth was the 26th such birth at our Bluemound Road location. The female, Jennifer, from Calgary, was separated from the herd in anticipation of the birth, her first. As sometimes anticipated with first time mothers - there was the chance of Jennifer injuring or even killing the calf short- ly upon birth, so separation from the herd and very frequent night checks were instituted. During one such early morning check it was discovered that Jennifer had gone into labor and given birth quickly, but as antici- pated she became frightened and began kicking the calf. Injury was too extensive and the young, a female, died shortly afterwards. At this time Jennifer is back with the herd and is doing fine. We watch for any signs of breeding - we know Jennifer will be a good mother the second time around. November was a special month is our Small Mammal Building. Our two female Bettong (Brush-tail Rat-kangaroo) each have a joey in their pouch - the first two of their kind born at our institution. These kangaroos are con- sidered endangered in their native Australia. Our first surviving Goeldi Monkey was born on 23 November. The mother had failed to raise her two previous offspring. The parents are on loan from the Brookfield Zoo. November also saw the 10th birth to our Mountain Fruit Bat colony. We believe we are the only institution to exhibit these African bats. The colony now numbers 16 individuals. Randy Walsh of the Zoo Atlanta AAZK Chapters reports the following: On 10 October, 1986, one of our Reeves muntjac gave birth to her first off- spring at Zoo Atlanta. This was quite a surprise since she had been kept without a male since her arrival at our zoo several months ago. On 24 October, our Grant's Zebra, "Milia", gave birth to her 6th offspring in as many years. Ed Hansen of the Tucson AAZK Chapter reports as follows: On 10 November, 1986, the Reid Park Zoo in Tucson experienced our 4th captive birth of a second generation Giant Anteater (Mynizcopkaga tAA^dactyta ) at but institu- tion. Overall, this is the 10th birth for this species at the zoo. The youngster is a healthy male and contentedly rides around on its mother's back, camouflaged perfectly from the potential photographer. Sandy Voth of Busch Gardens /Tampa reported that the following species have been born at The Dark Continent during October-November : 1.0 Scimitar- horned oryx, 1.1 Sable Antelope and 1.1 Ugandan Kob. Betty Jean Burcham of the Virginia Zoological Park AAZK Chapter reports the following: The Virginia Zoological Park at Norfolk is very happy to announce that their rock hyrax ( PsiOC.av.ia c.ape,yi6AJ> ) are now reproducing in their indoor exhibit. 1.4 were born to their 10-year-old female on 8 April, 1986. All were still born except one female which unfortunately died on 18 May, 1986. On 16 October, 1986, however, 3.3 hyrax were born to a younger female and 2.1 survive as of this report. Significant births and hatchings reported in the December AAZPZ Newsletter include: 0.1 white rhino at the Knoxville Zoo (the 12th since the herd was established in 1974) ; four litters of Virgin Island boas ( Ep'icAjCUtU Yi\Oinyti> gSiawti) at the Toledo Zoo (two of the litters were captive-bred and believed to be the first such in any zoo); 1.0 Asian Elephant at the Tulsa Zoo on 5 October; 0.0.1 Chilean Flamingo at the Greater Baton Rouge Zoo (the first such hatching for this facility; and 0.0.1 Emperor Penguin chick hatched at Sea World in California, the only place outside the antarctic that this species have been bred. 4 SPECTRUM Quality exotic animal diets Nutritionally balanced Fixed formulation • Economical When you need a complete line of high-quality dry and frozen animal diets for your feeding program, call Animal Spectrum. NEBRASKA BRAND 4 \ SPECTRUM BROOD-RITE HEATERS Frozen feline diets Frozen bird of prey diets Frozen canine diet Chunk and chopped horsemeat, hearts, livers, rib, shank, and knuckle bones The original gluten-free primate diets. Banana flavored primate, 15% protein Banana flavored primate, Pro-Plus 25% protein Omnivore dry Polar Bear dry Ratite dry Hoofstock supplement, with Selenium Bulbless heaters — nothing to break. Safe around all animals and bedding material. Even heat distribution in 240, 500, or 750 wattages. One call does it all 1 -800-228-4005 In Nebraska, call collect 402/488-6492 Animal Spectrum, Inc. Box 6307 Lincoln, NE 68506-0307 Watch this space for what's new for zoos! AAZK AWARD NOMINATIONS ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED FOR 1987! The AAZK Awards Committee would like to begin to accept nominations for the awards to be presented at the 1987 AAZK Conference in Milwaukee. In the following months there will be information concerning the qualifica- tions, nominations procedure, selection procedure, and an explanation of the AAZK EXCELLENCE IN ZOOKEEPING (EZ), CERTIFICATE OF MERIT FOR ZOOKEEPER EDUCATION (CMZE) , and the MERITORIOUS ACHIEVEMENT (MA) Awards. • The deadline for all award nominations is 1 JUNE 1987, so please keep this in mind when submitting your nominations. All awards given by AAZK have no minimum or maximum number offered each year, but if the nominees do not meet the qualifications and nominations procedure, they will not receive the award for which they were nominated. Please submit all nominations to: Rachel Rogers, Chairperson AAZK Awards Committee METR0Z00 12400 SW 152 Street Miami, FL 33177 AAZK EXCELLENCE IN ZOOKEEPING AWARD This award is given to keepers who go beyond what is considered average in the areas of dedication, commitment, and professionalism in the field of zookeeping. In fulfilling the animal's needs a keeper must have a knowledge of the animal's behavior, physiology, and natural history. This is the essential knowledge necessary for effectively maintaining a species in captivity. The excellent zookeeper must excell in one or more of these areas but not be lacking in any one of them. Qua! if i cations: 1. The nominee must be a full-time keeper, employed in any North American zoological institution or aquarium. 2. The nominee must have been employed at least one year on a permanent status at a zoo or aquarium. 3. The nominee must be nominated by his or her peers who have also been employed at that same zoo or aquarium. Supporting nominations may be submitted by management personnel in that same zoo or aquarium. Nomination Procedure: 1. List name, position, institution, years of service in the field and the recommendation of peers or colleagues. 2. List outstanding achievements: exhibits, breeding, education, etc. 3. List any extra activities outside of zoo or aquarium work: working with conservation groups, youth, wildlife officials, etc. Selection Precedure: The Awards Committee, consisting of five keepers, will independently review each nominee. AWARD DEADLINE 1 JUNE 1987 Next month: AAZK Certificate of Merit for Zookeeper Education 6 1987 State of the Association Report By JMawt As we enter the dawn of a new year, we also mark the 20th Anniversary of the American Association of Zoo Keepers. Founder Dick Sweeney, along with six other San Diego zoo keepers, first established AAZK "...to promote and establish a means to stimulate incentive and create greater interest in the zoo keeper profession, and to exchange ideas and ideals beneficial to the field of animal care." Four of these original founders are presently still employed at the San Diego Zoo - Dick Sweeney, Animal Care Manager/ Mammals; Red Thomas, Senior Keeper; Dennis Melvin, Senior Keeper; and Ken Willingham who is also an Animal Care Manager for Mammals. Former keeper Conrad Grayson is now serving as deputy sheriff for the San Diego area. Former zoo keepers and two of the original founders, Carl Pyle and Walt Bromley, have both passed away. The first AAZK chapter was chartered in San Diego on 5 December, 1967 with 29 keepers participating. Through the mail, keepers from all parts of North America were encouraged to become members of this fledgling or- ganization. At first, keepers joined as affiliate members of the San Diego chapter, but then the Cincinnati Zoo and the Central Park Zoo (NY) founded chapters of their own. By the fall of 1968, the organization had grown to include 44 zoos and 25 states. During the same year, Dick Sweeney, AAZK’s first National President, presented the Association to the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums (AAZPA) , which was meeting in Los Angeles. In his address to the AAZPA delegates, Mr. Sweeney not only asked that they endorse the AAZK organization but to be reassured that "...we keepers have a sincere desire to contribute our best to make our zoos successful." Over the span of twenty years, the Association has demonstrated her sta- bility through the consistent stages of growth that has enabled AAZK to continue to progress both in size and strength. At this time, over 2,000 individuals are members, with the membership increasing annually. Pre- sently, over 175 North American zoos, animal parks and aquariums are rep- resented, twelve of these facilities are located in Canada. Of course if you include the twenty-five zoological institutions abroad located in 14 different countries, one will discover that the AAZK organization is rec- ognized of over 200 of the world’s animal institutions. The AAZK National Board of Directors for this year remains unaltered un- til 1988. Since the Board terms of Frank Kohn, Vice President; Oliver Claffey, Board Member; and myself as AAZK’s National President are over at the close of 1987, we find ourselves in an important election year. Kerry Hoffman and Sue Barnard, who have just completed their first year as National Board Members, will continue to serve the remainder of their terms. The AAZK organization continues to grow and prosper primarily when the Board of Directors demonstrates a deep, personal commitment combined with the ability to work well as a team. Without that strong leadership present throughout tfre Association’s history, many of AAZK’s accomplish- ments would never have been made possible. Fortunately, the present Board Members mentioned above, along with Barbara Manspeaker and Susan Chan who work out of National Headquarters in Topeka, all are hard-working profes- sionals who devote countless hours and energy into AAZK’s ongoing projects. Totaling close to forty individual committees and projects, many concern- ed AAZK members are called upon to help these important projects to a successful conclusion. 7 1987 AAZK STATE OF THE ASSOCIATION REPORT, Continued The various AAZK projects and committees are the primary avenue for any interested member wanting to contribute towards the goals set by the Association. As stated in our constitution, we strive "to promote good relationships among professional zoo keepers; to promote and establish a means to stimulate incentive and create greater interest in the zoo keeping profession; to promote a brotherhood with members of the profes- sion through projects that will strengthen the zoo keeper’s job knowledge. To support and publicize our concern for all valid and deserving projects of conservation and to do our part in educating the general public to the need for worthwhile projects of preserving our natural resources and ani- mal life." Through our monthly publication. Animal Keepers’ Forum, those wishing to learn more about the organization's activities and available benefits can find all the necessary information in specific issues. The Editorial Staff at Topeka continue to produce an excellent magazine for our membership with articles submitted predominantly by keepers as well as from other sources connected with the animal care profession. We should also be especially grateful to Susan Chan, Alice Miser and Ron Ringer for their time and patience when editing our articles before send- ing them to the printers. Keep in mind that this publication accomplish- es one of AAZK’s primary goals by opening up channels of communication between zoo keepers all over the world. Uniting animal people through the exchange of information yields many positive achievements. Two other pub- lications offered by the Association are Zoonotic Diseases and Biological Values II. The first booklet mentioned deals with common zoonotic diseas- es and includes guildelines for preventive control as well as tips on per- sonal hygiene and disinfection procedures. Biological Values II is a note- book containing biological data on 441 mammal species. Recently both publications were added to Wildlife Publication's book list because of their popularity and resource value. The Zookeeping As a Career brochure continues to educate the general public about AAZK and the role of the professional zoo keeper. More and more requests have been received, es- pecially from the personnel departments in a variety of zoological insti- tutions and from career-guidance counselors at academic facilities. The International Affairs Committee was established to assist us in main- taining close ties with our sister Keeper Associations found in Australia, Great Britain, Japan, the Netherlands and China. Since we attract more and more international members each year, we found it necessary to estab- lish two coordinators for this committee. Pam McDougall, Calgary Zoo, is coordinator for the west which covers both Asia and Australia. Melba Shields, National Zoo, is the eastern coordinator responsible for inter- national members in Europe, Africa, the Mideast and Central and South America. Through recent correspondence made with concerned individuals working with zoos and the staffs of zoos in third world countries, the need for a sponsorship program was realized. Under the Sponsorship Pro- gram, AAZK seeks out AAZK Chapters or individual members to "adopt" an animal person working in a third world zoo by paying for their interna- tional membership fee in AAZK as well as providing the adoptee with edu- cational tools to enhance their career in the zoo field. Thanks to Ms. Sally Walker in India, six Indian keepers have been sponsored. Several sponsorships for individuals in Central America are currently being arranged. Since there has been such an overwhelming response from our membership to the sponsorship program, we have decided to make this option available to any international keeper working for zoos in countries where pay is low and conditions are below standards. The Keeper Accommodation List (KAL) continues to provide members who plan to travel here at home and abroad, a list of contacts to approach before arriving at their various destinations whereby arrangements can be made to stay in the area either free or for a minimal fee. Not only can a 8 1987 AAZK STATE OF THE ASSOCIATION REPORT, ConUmzd traveling keeper save money, but also gets a better introduction to the animal facilities in the area. Of course, the new friendships establish- ed usually make the visit that much more enjoyable and educational. Any member may request the names of these contact people for specific areas by writing to the Metro Toronto AAZK Chapter. The Membership Directory lists the names of the Association’s membership along with zoo affilia- tion and individual areas of interest. Through the efforts of Patricia Sanunarco at Lincoln Park, each year this booklet is made available to all members. The formation of AAZK Chapters increases each year which helps strengthen our organization in many different ways. Not only does the membership increase in numbers, but the activity level in National projects by mem- ber keepers also increases. AAZK Chapters provide keepers the opportunity to share information and to help contribute towards the goals set by the Association on a local level. Presently we find ourselves with over 60 individual chapters. There are times when local chapters need assistance and/or guidance from National. Since we felt the responsibility to ade- quately assist all these chapters at the same time was too great for one member (Chapter Affairs Coordiantor) , we recognized the need to appoint someone locally. This year I introduced the idea of each cahpter select- ing their own Chapter Liaison. So that each liaison will be able to per- form their duties confidently, a Chapter Liaison Packet has been prepared which briefly describes everything that comprises the AAZK organization. This Chapter Liaison will act as a link between the local chapter and the parent organization. Most of us are fully aware of the many valuable con- tributions made by enthusiastic chapters but at times appear to go un- noticed. Hopefully through the closer ties established between National and our Chapter Liaisons, we will find ourselves with more productive, better informed members. The Regional Coordiantor System steadily progresses with each passing year. The program was originally created to circulate the existence of the AAZK organization and the benefits that she offered her members. Under the direction of two strong Regional Coordiantor Heads, Diane Krug and Debbera Stecher, this system has undergone many positive alterations. With the phasing out of the Chapter Affairs Coordinator, the middle-man has been eliminated providing more responsibilities to the regional coordiantors assigned to certain regions. Between the local chapter liaisons and the RC's appointed to a specific area, the Regional Coordinator Heads will be able to keep National abreast of all chapter activity. Of course, the regional coordiantors will continue to encourage the formation of new chapters, suggest ways for a member or a chapter to become more actively involved in National projects or just prevent chapters from eventually stagnating due to lack of interest. Some of our most productive AAZK projects originated and are still under the supervision of the Keeper Education Committee coordinated by Pat Sammarco. Many of these committees have evolved enough to stand on their own and remain fruitful under the watchful eye of a strong chairperson appointed by the Committee. One major concern of the KEC is to make sure that a committee does not duplicate the efforts of another already estab- lished committee or project. This is one of the reasons for the establish- ment of the AAZK/AAZPA Liaison, a position held by Brandy Pound of the San Francisco Zoo. Through her guidance both organizations compliment each other rather than duplicate efforts. We are also allowed access to the International Zoo Educators and the Zoo Librarians' Special Interest Group through her influence. Some new ideas currently being introduced to the membership as they develop into substantial projects include the Churchman proposal and the CAUZ network. The Churchman proposal was introduced by 9 1987 AAZK STATE OF THE ASSOCIATION REPORT, CoruUnuzd Mr. Churchman, a curriculum writer, when he agreed to assist the AAZK organization in writing a Keeper Training Workshop. The objective of this proposal is to offer this course to keepers through workshops sched- uled over all of North America. Presently, the Board of Directors has decided to pursue this proposal more aggressively as soon as Mr. Churchman has time to appear before the Board at the next AAZK conference. The CAUZ network was founded by Donna Fitzroy Hardy, Ph.D., from California State University, Northridge, during the Spring of 1985. The Consortium of Aquariums, Universities and Zoos (CAUZ) main function is to serve as a communications link between zoos, aquarium and university students, keepers, scientists and educators. More information on this network will be made available to all members through a series of articles to be pub- lished in upcoming issues of AKF. Anyone interested in locating institu- tions that offer classes or courses directly related to captive wild ani- mal care can utilize the Zoo/University List This list may be obtained by sending a 39q, stamped, self-addressed, legal-sized envelope to Nat- ional Headquarters in Topeka. Recently we have discovered that the Ref- erence Search and Library Resources committees share similar responsibil- ities. In the future you may see these two projects combine their efforts to function as one committee. The Library Resources Committee, headed by Kaci Thompson, aids keepers in locating printed materials as well as offers information on how to utilize libraries more efficiently. This committee has also established a close link with the AAZPA Librarians' Special Interest Group which has led them to work jointly in many areas. Just to mention one of the many advantages brought about because of these cooperative efforts, a Bibliography Coordinator has been appointed to collect and distribute bibliographies on zoo-related topics free of charge to those requesting them. The book. An Approach to Zoo Keeping, compiled by co-editor Pat Sammarco and many other AAZK members is finally reaching the rough draft stage. This text will attempt to present basic concepts, attitudes and techniques involving the zoo keeping profession. The Keeper Training Materials Identification Project identifies various materials in use at animal facilities for training and secures permissiom to list their availability to those connected to the zoo profession. The goal is to help zoos improve and formalize their training programs and to offer the opportunity for self-improvement to all those active in the animal care field. Coordinator of this project is Laura Trechsel, Folsom Zoo with Rosemary Jalink, Mill Mountain Zoo, as newly appointed project head. This committee will remain under the guidance of the KE C which is in the pro- cess of forming a review committee to examine video tape resources used for keeper training. The Program Library has been recently assigned to Debbie Jackson, Little Rock Zoo. This project is responsible for collect- ing programs (scripts, slides, video tapes, etc) and for making them available to chapters for a small rental fee. These programs were pro- duced by keepers who presented papers at animal-related conferences. The Video Tape Project under Wayne Buchanan of the Woodland Park Zoo continues to successfully market two keeper produced programs: "Zoo Keeper Safety: An Attitude Adjustment", and "A Zoo Keeper's Introduction to Feeds and Feeding". This project was created to encourage keepers to produce their own video tape programs about the zoo keeping profession. A new video tape program entitled "The Keeper's Role in Zoo Animal Health" proposed by Judie Steenberg has been approved. The Staff Exchange project under Elandra Aum, WPZ, promotes keeper exchanges as a tool for on-the-job training. Presently, 52 institutions have agreed to participate in the exchange program following the terms set down by their own individual zoological institutions. Kathy Sucharitakul, Akron Zoo, is now super- vising the Book Review Committee. This project solicits volunteers to review animal-related books and write articles about the work for AKF . The Membership Services Brochure has been temporarily put on hold until 10 1987 AAZK STATE OF THE ASSOCIATION REPORT, Continued a computer is installed at National Headquarters. This brochure will list all of AAZK's projects and committees along with a brief descrip- tion of each. Regular articles in the Forum remind members of the Association’s activities. Those projects linked with keeper education can be found under the Continuing Keeper Education Column. There is also a special section which discusses safety tips and procedures under the THINK Safety Column. The Research Grants Committee was developed to encourage keepers to con- duct their own research projects and to make available the necessary funds to carry out this research. Two $500 grants are made available each year to professional members who wish to submit their project to this committee for their review. A new application form has been adopted along with the development of a formal grant process which clarifies the sequence of events in grant submission, review and completion. Only one study was accepted for funding this past year - "An Investigation of the Effects of Bacterial Contamination on the Fertility and Hatchability of Black Ducks" being conducted by Steven Leathery from National Zoo. Two forms available to AAZK members which help enhance the zoo keeping profession are the Animal Data Transfer Form and the Exhibit Design Form. Bernie Feldman will send the ADT Forms free to anyone requesting them. This forms allows keepers to communicate specific animal care techniques along with any other pertinent information regarding an animal being shipped from their institution to another. Presently over 120 animal facilities are using this form. The Exhibit Design Form was created to help those planning to revamp an old exhibit or build a new one by pro- viding suggestions to keep in mind that make up a well-constructed exhibit as well as those bad practices which should be avoided. This project is coordinated by Diane Forsyth at the Akron Zoo. We have two notebooks that still require continuous feedback from the membership before they can be considered anywhere near completion. The Diet Notebook, now headed by Susan Bunn at Minnesota, was established to collect diet information for captive exotic animals to be made available in a loose-leaf notebook format. The Infant Development Notebook is collecting data on mother-reared animals. This project is under the supervision of Steven Wing at Milwaukee. Through the Public Education Committee, we try to educate the public about the importance of today's zoos and the role we play as profession- al zoo keepers. Major changes will not come about for plant and animal species and their natural habitats until the general public is persuaded to change their old ways of thinking. Headed by Jay Jasan, Staten Island Zoo, this committee functions to explore, define and promote the role of keepers in formal education programs for the public. Jay is presently conducting a survey which will compile a resource to be used by those interested in conducting educational programs for the public. He is also trying to design a poster that will be used to educate the public about the zoo keeping profession. Ellen Bradfield, Zoo Atlanta, is submitting a regular column to AKF that will publish questions frequently asked by the public with the best answers submitted printed in a following issue. We are also hoping to produce a video tape entitled "Zookeeping As A Career" through a PBS station. This effort is being coordinated through Joanie Stinson at the Brookfield Zoo. The Public Relations Liaison acts as an aid to AAZK’s Administrative Secretary, Barbara Manspeaker. Tim Kurkowski, Zoo Atlanta, who was appointed to this position, takes the time to answer letters concerning careers in zoo keeping from the stand- point of an experienced, professional zoo keeper. 11 1987 AAZK STATE OF THE ASSOCIATION REPORT, Continued The Legislative Advisor, a position currently held by Becky Rogers, Topeka Zoo, is responsible for informing the membership via AKF on legislation relevant to the animal care profession and provide conservation updates. She also contacts legislators and conservation organizations on behalf of the AAZK organization. Through our Awards Committee we offer recognition to keepers for their outstanding professional achievement, service and educational programs. It was recently decided that only professional mem- bers be allowed to serve on this committee. David Thomas, Washington Park Zoo, and Phil Pennock, Woodland Park Zoo, were awarded the Excellence in Zookeeping awards at the 1986 National AAZK Conference in Winnipeg. Tracy Miller, formerly of the Buffalo Zoo, received the Meritorious Achievement Award. Two new committee members have been appointed as requested by chairwoman Rachel Rogers. Harry Hofauer, Toronto Zoo, and John Kiseda, Bronx Zoo, are the new Award Committee members. It was also suggested that those keepers receiving AAZK awards be presented to AAZPA for publication in their newsletter. The Nomination/Election Committee under the direction of chairwoman Jan McCoy, Washington Park Zoo, has undergone some positive changes. First of all, the nominee forms were improved, more time was scheduled to prepare the membership for an election year, and it was decided that anyone serv- on this committee was not eligible to be nominated or run for a National Board position. The AAZK History Committee chaired by Art Goodrich from the San Diego Zoo, is responsible for compiling the AAZK organization's history. Since 1987 mark's AAZK's 20th Anniversary, a "Founder's Weekend" has been planned. Honoring the seven San Diego keepers who started AAZK, this special "week- end" will be held at the San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park over the 6th and 7th of May 1987. A post-conference tour is planned at Sea World on May 8th. This event is being planned entirely through the History Com- mittee in order to honor the original founders and celebrate AAZK's 20th year. All chapters are encouraged to raise funds to be used to pay for the recognition gifts planned for the founders. We hope to be able to take care of their travel expenses so that they may attend the 1987 Nat- ional AAZK Conference in Milwaukee where the 20th Anniversary celebration will continue. The Annual Conference report was submitted by Steve Wing from the Milwaukee County Zoo. The 1987 National AAZK Conference will be held in Milwaukee, WI from October 3-8 at the Sheraton Mayfair Hotel. The Conference Book Committee supervised by Phil Pennock offers guidelines for those thinking about hosting a regional or national conference. We hope to make this book available to the membership very shortly. There are many chapters marketing items bearing the AAZK rhino logo. The AAZK Stickers are being handled by Rosemary Jalink at the Mill Mountain Zoo; the AAZK T-Shirts by Janet Meade at Little Rock Zoo; AAZK Belt Buck- les in two sizes by Terri Schuerman of the San Diego Wild Animal Park; the AAZK Coffee Mugs by Steven Wing of Milwaukee County Zoo; the AAZK License Plates through Linda Anstanding of the Detroit Zoo; and the AAZK Baseball Caps by the Zoo Atlanta Chapter. The Keeper Care Buttons will once again be made available at the start of 1987 through Larry Sammarco at Lincoln Park Zoo. Because of the confusion with National By-law - Article VII, Section 10 concerning the profit split, it was decided to amend this by-law and have the membership present at Winnipeg vote on the change. The change was approved and this portion of the By-laws now reads: "Allocation of funds - any funds generated by a National conferen- ce which remain after costs will be split equally by the host chapter and the National Association. Any chapter project which uses the AAZK rhino logo and/or is marketed nationally must receive prior approval from the 12 1987 AAZK STATE OF THE ASSOCIATION REPORT, ConUnu&d Board of Directors. Any chapter project which is identified with the National Association by name or logo and is marketed on a national basis must receive prior approval from the Board of Directors. All profits made on such products previously approved by the Board of Directors must be split equally between the chapter and the National Association. Chap- ter products not using the AAZK rhino logo may be marketed at any animal- related conference or workshop without any split of profits." Those proposals discussed at the 1986 AAZK National Conference at Winnipeg covered a wide range of topics. First of all. National Headquarters in Topeka will have a computer system installed as soon as the proper system is selected. Both President Jean Hromadka and Vice-President Frank Kohn will travel to Topeka to help make the final choice. Instead of forming an Ethics Committss, an Ad Hoc Committee would be designated by the Board if the situation arises to warrant such a committee. The Board approved the Trimble Video Company to videotape the paper sessions at the 1986 National Conference in Winnipeg. Due to techinical difficulties, the taping proved to be unsuccessful. It may be tried again at a future con- ference. Mark de Denus’ game "Zooquest" won Board approval to use the AAZK logo and endorsement for the front cover of the game. In exchange, an AAZK membership brochure will be enclosed in each box of this animal- related game. We plan to find some individual to write grant proposals in an effort to locate additional funds for the Association. The regis- tration fees for the National AAZK Conference will be paid for all active National Board Members. At the General Membership Meeting, the Tucson Chapter received approval to host the 1988 National Conference.- Finally, we plan to redesign the National AAZK letterhead this year. Once again the AAZK organization has taken many important strides during the year of 1986. Thanks to the many hard-working, dedicated AAZK mem- bers who actively participate in the organization. 13 FRESNO'S FAVORITE ELEPHANT CELEBRATES 40TH BIRTHDAY By M ouiy L. Simmon Zook&epeA II, Vn &>no Zoo VsizAno, CA Everyone's favorite animal in California's San Joaquin Valley is "Nosey", an Asian elephant. At the age of three years, she was purchased with the nickels and dimes of school children from all over the valley. The price of $3,000 was a huge sum for children to raise in 1949. She was named through a children's naming contest. Thousands of people watched her walk to the zoo from the railroad station. So she has a very special place in the hearts of the people of the Fresno area. She spent the next 33 years alone in a small, concrete-floored enclosure. After a long struggle to obtain the necessary building funds, we were finally able to put her in a spacious new exhibit with dirt, rocks, a tree, a pool and waterfall, and best of all — provide her the companionship of three young elephants. This fall she reached the milestone of age 40 years. So the zoo held a very special birthday party for her on 15 October, 1986. We also cele- brated the zoo's 80th anniversary. The resulting "Zoobilee" was a fun party with balloons and birthday cake for all. Nosey's birthday "cake" was a 100 lb pumpkin decorated with raisins and other goodies. She shared a wheelbarrow full of melons and grapes with our other female elephants, Shaunzi and Kara. The highlight of the evening was supposed to be weighing Nosey for the first time ever. There was even a weight guessing contest. But, as one wag put it, "No lady of 40 wants to reveal her weight to all the world." Because Nosey is an elephant who never had training until the age of 36, it is hard for her to learn a task as difficult as being weighed. Her first formal training began in 1982, when Paul Barkman joined our staff. Because of her long social isolation from other elephants and her cramped quarters, it was difficult for her to adjust to a training routine. But with great patience, Paul taught her basic commands. We were finally able to properly care for her feet, move her in and out of night quarters readily, and turn this huge pachyderm into the matriarch of our herd of four elephants. She obviously enjoys life more now. Nosey is a large, stocky elephant, who stands 8 '2" tall at the shoudler. In order to attempt to weigh her, many weeks before the party we started training her to stand still with a small board slipped under each foot. The California Highway Patrol was providing the use of their portable truck scales for the official weigh-in. These scales consist of four separate platforms, about 2' x 1^' x 2' high, each with a digital read- out. The resulting four readings are added up for a total weight. Bal- ancing on these platforms can be a frightening experience for a relative- ly untrained elephant . So every day she practiced standing on the plywood boards cut to the same dimensions as the real scales. It required the efforts of several people. One did the commands and the foot placing, one bribed her with pieces of apple as a reward, and two to three others placed the boards under each foot. By the time of the appointed evening, Nosey was standing quietly on the boards for up to three minutes. 14 FRESNO'S FAVORITE ELEPHANT CELEBRATES 40TH BIRTHDAY, Continued But the night of the party was a different story. Nosey was not used to performing before huge crowds. It got darker faster than anticipated, balloons were popping, and earners lights were glaring. It was all a little too scary for her and she balked completely. The next day, at the time of day she had been practicing, and in the pre- sence of only her keepers and the highway patrolman, we tried again. It wasn't easy! We had to slide each 80 lb. scale under a foot and, every- time she shifted off, move the scales under her feet again. She kept leaning over and one scale would read 5000 lbs. while the opposite one rear 1100 lbs. Getting her to balance was tricky. At last, after nearly 30 minutes, we finally got a pretty good balance — just as she reached the end of her patience. The monumental task was accomplished through the efforts of Paul Barkman, head trainer; zookeepers Paula Swanson, Kimberley Cook, Betty Barkman, and Mary Swanson, and Officer Fred Rylee of the California Highway Patrol. Nosey s weight turned out to be 10, ord for a female Asian elephant. Chapter News TUCSON AAZK CHAPTER On 5 November 1986, approximately 15 keepers from the Phoenix Zoo traveled 120 miles to Tucson for our monthly Chapter meeting. They toured the Reid Park Zoo, and then adjourned to the staff area to ex- change keeper anecdotes and info over burnt hotdogs and cold beer. While the Arizona Chapter of AAZK, located in the Phoenix area, has been inactive for a few years, the keepers from Phoenix seem to have the interest and enthusiasm to make the Arizona Chapter of AAZK vital and breathing once again. This historic meeting meant that about 80% of the Zookeeper population for the state of Arizona was to- gether in one spot (scary thought!) It was an interesting and informa- tive meeting, one that the Tucson Chapter hopes will be repeated often. — Ed Hanten pounds. We believe this is a rec- ANNOUNCING THE FORMATION OF THE GREATER SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA AAZK CHAPTER Members of the Greater San Fran- cisco Bay Area Chapter of the American Association of Zoo Keepers are proud to announce the formation of their chapter. This has been a cooperative effort involving the several Bay Area zoos, as well as other animal care facilities. We have chapter members affiliated with the San Francisco Zoo, Oakland (Knowland) Zoo, Sacramento Zoo, San Jose Zoo, Marine World/Africa U.S.A., Ano Nuevo Interpretive Association, The Preserve, and Unicorn Hollow. Our elected officers are: P/lza. . .Honman G&ukznz (S.F. Zoo) l/.P. . . .LzAliz Eiztd [SacAamznto loo) Szz’ y . . Galz Buhlznt (S.F. Zoo) T sizcla . . Lzo PoAtoA (S.F. Zoo) Booaid Rzp..LaAAy BnutnaAd (S.F. Zoo) The first Chapter project was a membership drive, and we now have 108 members. We look forward to establishing an enthusiastic and active membership that will con- tribute on the national, regional and local levels. — ElUabzth Ryan CkaAjvpeAAon, PublicationA 15 CHAPTER NEWS, Continued IMPORTANT REMINDER TO ALL AAZK CHAPTERS!!!! During the early part of November, a Chapter Information Request Form was sent out by National Headquar- ters to all Chapters for which we have a card on file. These in- cluded both active and inactive Chapters. Thus far we have heard from only a handful. It is VERY important that these forms be filled out and returned to National HQ as the information is needed to assist us in setting up the new Chapter Affairs system under the Regional Coordinator Co-Directors. We are working hard to make the system work more effic- iently and respond more quickly to the needs of all AAZK Chapters. Even if your Chapter has been in- active for some time, please take the time to fill out and return the form. We want to assist all Chapters interested in recharter- ing. We would especially appre- ciate it if you would appoint a Chapter Liaison. This individual, as outlined in President Jean Hromadka’s "Letter to Chapters" (July 1986 AKF, page 198) will serve as an important informational link between their Chapter and National AAZK. A Chapter Liaison Packet is currently being prepared which will be sent to all Chapter Liaisons. It will contain information on all National AAZK Projects and Commit- tees. So PLEASE, if you have not sent in your form, do so today. If you have lose or misplaced the form, drop us a card and we will be glad to send you another. Your swift cooperation is greatly appreciated! NIXON GRIFFIS FUND ANNOUNCES SIX GRANT AWARDS The Nixon Griffis Fund for Zoological Research (NGFZR) , established in 1984 by New York Zoological Society Trustee Nixon Griffis, recently awarded six research grants. The recipients were: Nancy Czekala, San Diego Zoo: "Fertility Evaluation in Male Gorillas by Urinary Hormone Analysis". Mary Densmore, Ph.D., Texas A&M University, Terry Blasdel, DVM, Houston Zoo, and Duane C. Kraemer, DVM, Ph.D., Texas A&M University: "Effect of Etorphine and Xylazine on Fertilization Rates in Sheep". Ellen Dierenfeld, Ph.D., New York Zoological Society, and Fred Koontz, Ph.D., New York Zoological Society: "Feed Intake and Digestive Effic- iency of the Proboscis Monkey (NoAClLL 6 ZaAvcutuA ) in Captivity". Murray E. Fowler, DVM, University of California: "Evaluation of Ovarian Function and Conception in the Llama ( Lama gtama) Through Urinary Estrogen Conjugates and Progesterone Metabolites". Bonnie L. Raphael, DVM, Dallas Zoo: "Interspecific Embryo Transfer in the Giraffe (GdAatftfa. cameZopcUiduA ) and Its Direct Application to the Okapi ( OkapZci johviiitoviCl for Perpetuation in Captivity". Gabriella A. Varga, Ph.D., and Brigite A. Taylor, The Pennsylvania State University: "Colostrum, Gross Milk Composition, and Suckling Behavior of Captive Blue Duikers [CQjphaJLoplr 104 mowtiCLoZcL) " . Nixon Griffis Fund for Zoological Research grants are available to mem- bers of the zoo and aquarium community. Fund recipients may be keepers, curators, veterinarians, or research and consulting biologists. Grants, not to exceed $3,000, are awarded semi-annually. Closing periods are 1 January and 1 July. For information about the Fund and grant application procedure, contact John Behler, Coordinator, Nixon Griffis Fund for Zoo- logical Research c/o New York Zoological Society, Bronx, NY 10460. ® 16 Dr, Birute Galdikas To Lecture At Metrozoo in Inarch The Education Department of the Zoo- logical Society of Florida is pleased to announce a very special guest lec- ture by world renowned primatologist , Birute Galdikas. Dr. Galdikas, re- M| garded as an authority on wild orang- 3 utans, spends six months a year con- > ducting research and introducing hand-reared orangs to natural habitat. jjj| The remaining six months she teaches ip at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver , Canada . Her lecture is given through the cooperation of the L.S.B. Leaky Foundation. The lecture is schedul- ed for Sunday, 15 March at 7:30 p.m. Participants will have an opportunity to meet Dr. Galdikas at a reception following her talk. Visiting zookeepers will be charged $8 .00/lecture only and $ 10 . 00/lecture and reception by showing their AAZK membership cards. All others will be charged $12 .00/lecture and $15.00/ lecture plus reception. The South Florida AAZK Chapter can provide keeper accommodations for those who need them by contacting Rachel Rogers KAL Representative, at 12400 S.W. 152 Street, Miami, FL 33177 (305) 251- 0403 by 1 March 1987. Register below: *********************************************************************** Participants name Pa. Galdlkcu wtth one ofi the. hand- reared orange prior to release. ( Photo credit: Rod Brlndamour - © National Geographic Society) Address City State Zip Phone ( ) Mastercard Visa American Express Expiration date Signature Fee $ Education Department Zoological Society of Florida 12400 S.W. 152 Street Miami, FL 33177 (305) 255-5551 *A non-refundable $5 processing fee will be retained in the event of a cancellation. Reservation by credit card may be made by phoning a Mastercard, Visa, or American Express card number to the Education Dept. ELECT I 0 N .... '87 LAST CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR THE 1987 AAZK BOARD OF DIRECTORS! Three AAZK Board seats are up for election. We need nominations of persons you would like to have serving as board members. New board members will serve from 1 January, 1988 through 31 December, 1991. Nomination forms are due by 31 January, 1987, and are to be sent to the NEC Chairman, Janet McCoy (address below). DUTIES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS For a more detailed explanation of the expanded duties of the Board, refer to the Papers of Incorporation - available upon request from National. 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 Consti- tution and 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 and must have been a mem- ber 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. 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. c. Nominator signs forms and mails to NEC Chairman d. Notifies nominee that they nominated him/her for the Board. 2) Nominee Biographical Form: (nominee lists the following information) 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: (AAZPA, Audubon, etc.) e) Other information the nominee feels is pertinent. f) References: (one or two) g) Nominee signs forms and mails to NEC Chairman. NOTE: Candidate is ineligible for nomination if both the nominator and nominee biographical forms are not compl ete and received by the NEC Chairman by 31 January 1987. Forms are in this issue of the AKF or can be obtained from the NEC Chairman. Send completed forms to: Janut McCoy, NEC Ckcoinman, Washington Parti loo, 4001 S.W. Canyon RV., Portland, OR 97221. 18 ELECTION FORMS NOMINATOR FORM FOR AAZK BOARD OF DIRECTORS Qualifications for Nomination: 1. Nominee must be a Professional Member of AAZK 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: Institution: 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 Chairman by 31 January 1987. Send to: Janet McCoy, NEC CkaJjman, (jJcuhXngton Pcvik Zoo, 4001 S.W. Canyon Pd., Vo Jutland, OR 9722/ . NOMINEE BIOGRAPHICAL FORM AAZK BOARD OF DIRECTORS 1 . Name: Address: Phone: 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: NOMINEE BIOGRAPHICAL FORM/AAZK BOARD OF DIRECTORS, Continued 5. Memberships in Affiliate Organizations: (AAZPA, Audubon, etc.) 6. Other information the nominee feels to be pertinent: 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 NEC Chairman by 31 January 1987. Send form to: Janet McCoy, NEC CkcuAman Wcu> king ton PaAk Zoo 4001 S.W. Canyon Rd. Pohtland, OR 97221 Book Review How to Become Extinct By Will Cuppy University of Chicago Press, Chicago & London, 1983, 114 ppgs. $4.95, paperback Review by Jay Jcu>an Statm 1 Aland Zoo Stoutm I Aland, NV Not since How to Attract the Wombat, also by Will Cuppy, has a book about natural history been so much fun to read. The book consists mainly of personal views and commentaries on a wide variety of fish and reptiles, as well as the work of Aristotle and French naturalist Baron Cuvier. As one reads through Cuppy ’s essays, one gets the feeling that Cuppy is writ- ing from his personal experiences with the specific animals (even when he discusses the Pterodactyl and Woolly Mammouth!). In the section titled "Thoughts in the Aquarium", such topics as "Fish and Democracy" and "Do Fish Think?" are explored. We also learn about the little-known idiosyncrasies of fish from the carp to the silurus. "Rep- tiles I'm Always Meeting" follows the same pattern. Footnotes are liber- ally used by Cuppy throughout the book and add humorous asides to the already humorous main text. Cuppy even treats the topic of the third section (with the same title as the book) with humor, but in a special way. What Cuppy is really poking fun at it not the fact that animals become extinct, but that with all our intelligence, we allow animals to become extinct. This section contrasts the theories behind the extinction of dinosaurs, plesiosaurs, pterodactyls, and the like with the "modern" extinction of the Great Auk and the Passen- ger Pigeon. It is important to keep the publication date of the book in the back of your mind while reading How to Become Extinct. In 1941, the extinction of a species was a serious matter, but I somehow feel it was a less des- perate matter than it is today. With a growing number of animal and plant species facing extinction every year, it is, at best, difficult to find any humor at all in extinction. Taking all this into consideration, the book is still very entertaining, even to those of us who may come in regu- lar contact with animals that are endangered or even extinct in the wild. In the Appendix, Cuppy deals with the theory that insects may become the dominant animal life form in "Are the Insects Winning?". The theory of natural selection is discussed in "Thoughts on the Ermine", also in the Appendix. Overall, How to Become Extinct is a wonderful combination of humor and biological information that is not easy to find in a book these days. Although you will not learn a whole lot about the animals discussed in the book, I'm sure anyone who reads it, regardless of their previous zoological knowledge, will be entertained by Cuppy 's unique sense of scientific humor. 19 Checksheet Offers Valuable Tool For Unit Training Judie Steenberg of the Woodland Park Zoo received much interest in the Checksheet used at her zoo for training staff new to the facility during the 1986 AAZK Nat- ional Conference in Winnipeg. She has received permission from the Woodland Park Zoological Gardens to have it published in AKF . The checksheet is useful in two ways: (1) the trainer has the sheet to be sure all parts of orientation and/or training are covered; and (2) the trainee has it as a means of insuring that each item is covered, and from which to ask questions .The best way to use the check- sheet is to have both parties review a copy at the start of the training period, and review it periodically until all of the sections have been thoroughly covered and all questions answered. The items can be applied by species, by enclosure (exhibit) and by unit, or area of responsibility, ^KEEPER EDUCATION CHECKSHEET FOR UNIT TRAINING WOODLAND PARK ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS Tour of Zoo grounds Introduction to employees, hierarchy, policies Emergency procedures : location of equipment (capture equipment, fire extinguishers) review procedures for specific unit escaped animals - review Zoo policy earthquake /volcano fire first aid supplies/training Animal Health Requirements/Procedures: Temperature requirements (min /max /optimum) species requirements exhibits (methods of maintaining temp /humidity) service areas (effect on exhibits if applicable) Health problems review current problems species susceptibility to disease past problems/remedies Vet cupboard (review supplies) location of forms review use of Prophylactic treatment Review vitamin/mineral requirements/supplementation Diets - food storage, preparation, and distribution: Diet cards (review current and seasonal diets) Commissary list and daily food order Diet preparation food containers size/condition of food per species requirements vitamin/mineral supplements per individual requirements Distribution of food (how to feed and where to feed) 20 CKE COLUMN, WOODLAND PARK CHECKSHEET, Continued Equipment location, use and proper storage: Capture equipment use of proper equipment according to species proper storage of equipment additional sources of equipment review past history of unit re: capture and restraint Cleaning equipment and supplies equipment location/use/maintanance chemicals recommended amounts to be used for effective solutions safety requirements safety equipment location Tools permanently locked in the unit location sign-out sheet additional sources of tools used on occasion Cleaning exhibits, service areas, sanitizing utensils: Methods, equipment, supplies used Proposed schedule of cleaning Specifics re/service areas Cold soak/sanitizing utensils Communication devices/procedures Radio (should be reviewed whether or not one is assigned) proper use (see handout) battery use/storage roster Telephone location (in-house, outside line, scan line, call waiting) directories/ instructions Zoo/City telephone lists Records daybook (what to record) daily reports (location of forms /procedures for filling them ou specimen records individual long sheets individual identification methods (banding, ear-tagging, etc.) files (review location of various files in Unit/Zoo) special records - review needs and location of egg charts, temperature/humidity charts, behavioral observations, special procedures (i.e. behavioral research projects) Physical plant and operation: Heating system (main plant/fuel supply /auxiliary source) Air circulation and cooling methods Breaker panels/fuse box/main power switch Chargers for hot wires (extra fuses) Water system (main shut off, valves for sprinkling systems) Drains (floor drain location, catch basins, storm sewers) Pest control problems in the unit - location of supplies Lock system - padlock procedure, how to use a chain, lock maintenance CKE COLUMN, WOODLAND PARK GHECKSHEET, Continued General Information: Reproduction history of each animal/species behavioral norms incubation/gestation periods emphasis by species endangered or not marketability holding capacity Behavioral adaptations by species/individuals Capture and Restraint - how and for what purpose MAKE TIME to engage in discussion on the niche of each species in their natural environment. Discuss physical, psychological, locomotive, tem- perature/humidity requirements of each species in the Unit. Horticulture: Keepers are responsible for the maintenance of plants within the exhibits. In some areas it is vital that horticulture and/or volunteer support be used to main- tain the plant collection. Specific unit needs Schedule of water/pruning/f ertilizing procedures Special conditions based on Unit requirements Pest control Replacement plants Keeper’s Alert The Public Education Committee is interested in providing a brochure that discusses common questions about zoos. Past attempts to gather informa- tion for this brochure have been less than fruitful, however. It was thought that perhaps a column in AKF might help to accumulate material. A question about zoos or zoo animals will be presented. If you think you have got the perfect answer for that question, tell me about it! In a subsequent issue, an answer to that question will be published. If you think that the answer chosen needs something to make it a perfect answer, let me know! Also let me know if there’s a question you’d like to see answered . Things to keep in mind: (1) Keep it general enough to apply to most zoos; and (2) Keep it simple and concise. Please, please speak up! I want these questions and answers to be the best that they can be. Don’t be too afraid (or too lazy) to give your opinion. Perhaps your chapter could discuss them as the Milwaukee Chapter is doing. Please send all question, answers and comments to: Ellen Bradfield Zoo Atlanta AAZK 800 Cherokee Ave., S.E. Atlanta, GA 30315 The first question I’d like to discuss is: ARE THE ANIMALS TAME? Some questions to be included in this discussion are: (1) Do the animals bite? and (2) Can you pet the animals? SPERM MOTILITY ANALYZER OFFERS BROAD SPECTRUM OF APPLICATIONS An innovative electronic system for sperm motion analysis was announced at the American Fertility Society’s annual meeting in Toronto this past September. The Hamilt on-Thorn Motility Analyzer, or HMT 2000, sets a new standard for fertility testing. Recent research has indicated a relationship be- tween sperm motility (including velocity, linearity, morphology, etc.) and fertility. The analyzer streamlines the viewing, tracking, and in- terpreting of sperm movement, enhancing the overall process of assessing semen viability. Previous methods of motion anlayzis have involved a subjective decision by the human eye, or a laborious process of time-lapse photography. This new decive provides an objective analysis in a comprehensive and quali- fied report. The HMT 2000 is the newest product from Hamilton-Thorn Research, a bio- technology firm in Danvers, MA, specializing in veterinary products. ’’Sperm motility analysis is a natural outgrowth of our work in animal re- production, "comments Meg Douglas-Hamilton, chairman of the company. Hamilton-Thorn developed the widely used Equitainer system of transported semen in 1983. The HTM 2000 combines optical, video, and analytical systems in a single, dedicated unit. Weighing only 60 lbs., the unit is convenient and simple to use as well as portable. Because all of its systems are integrated, it is highly cost-effective. Among its features are: 1. A unique 200 micron optical chamber which allows unimpeded cell motion. A sample remains in focus throughout the 200 microns. 2. The ability to interface with computers, video recorders, plotters, and TV monitors, maximizing its flexibility. 3. Accuracy at extremes of density and velocity. It is capable of read- ing up to nine fields for each sample. 4. An internal printer, with the option of color-coded track print-outs. 5. Simplicity and ease of use. The HMT 2000 has only five input keys, and it requires no special training. 6. Complete analysis is only 43 seconds, which frees up technician time. Besides male fertility testing, other applications for the system include cell motion analysis, in-vitro fertilization, artificial inseminatiom, veterinary school teaching, and assessing the effects of toxins or thera- putic agents. For further information on the Hamilton-Thorn Motility Analyzer call (617) 777-9050 or write Hamilton-Thorn Research at 30A Cherry Hill Drive, Danvers, MA 01923. 23 THINK Safety! ZOO KEEPERS - A SAFETY COUNTVOWN Ten zoo keeper*, Working on the bear line. One leht a lock ohh> Then there were nine. Five zoo keeper*, Ho*ing down the h^oon. One *prayed an outlet. Then there were hour. Nine zoo keeper*. Had a party date ; Thought about it all day. Then there were eight. Four zoo keeper*; One cut hi* knee. Never did report it. Then there were three. Eight zoo keeper*, Looking up to heaven. A hat goo*e htew over. Then there were *even. Three zoo keeper *, working a* a crew. One took ohh alone. Then there were two. Seven zoo keeper*, Putting out *alt lick*. One cro**ed a camel. Then there were *ix. Two zoo keeper*, Shoveling in the *un. One wa* in a hurry. Now there'* only one. Six zoo keeper*. Glad to be alive. One tried out the blow gun. Then there were h^ve. One zoo keeper, Remembered the other nine. Began to THINK SAFETY! And i* *till doing h^re. — By Jillian Grade Animal Hospital/ Lincoln PoJik Zoo C hicag o , 1 llinoi* (Editor'* note: Our *incere thank* to Jillian hor hen. poetry hor thi* month'* THINK Safety! a* well a* hen work the pa*t *everal yean* a* the column'* eoondtnaton. She t* ne*tgntng finom tht* po*ition and it i* being taken on by Marcia Ciborek oh the Akron Zoological Park, 500 Edge- mod Ave. , Aknon , OH 44301 . Each one oh u* nan* into *omething on an almo*t dally ba*i* nelated to *ahety — and *ahety in zookeeping . Why not *hane what you know, what you nead on what you hear thnoagh the THINK Sahety! column? New* pap en anticle* on animal- nelated accident* one good neminden* to THINK Sahety! And even mone valuable than out*ide anticle* one neco -Election* oh pen*onal expedience* involving *ahety at youn zoo. Canto on* one al*o a good way to get people thinking about *ahety. Sahety in a pnohe**ion *uch a* zookeeping with all it* inherent hazand*, need* to be a daily pant oh eveny keepen'* noutine. Plan now to contribute to the THINK Sahety! column during the coming yean. Send all contribution* to Marcia at the addne** above. I h the contribution i* hrom an outride *ource [new*papen, magazine etc.] plea*e include hall *ounce inhormation a* *ome *uch material require* receiving penmi**ion to reprint. ) & 24 THE NATURAL AND ZOOLOGICAL HISTORY OF FOUR CAPROMYID RODENTS: Cuban Hutia (Cap/iomy. 6 ptlonldeA ) Bahamian Hutia [Gcocaptiomy* -t. tngnakaml) Jamaican Hutia [Gcocaptiomy* b . bnownLL) Haitian Hutia (PlaglodohtZa aedlom) By Bficnda 5. Btioch&teJjn VohmeA Animal Technician, Florida State Mua earn Graduate oi Santa Fe Community College Teaching Zoo ABSTRACT The hutias of the West Indies comprise a special and diverse group of rodents whose threatened existence has led to a recent surge in captive propagation programs. The Florida State Museum in Gainesville is attempt- ing to maintain a viable population of members of these groups in a lab- oratory situation. Eventually, all of the animals will be relocated to The National Zoo of Santa Domingo, Dominican Republic. The Jersey Wild- life Preservation Trust has also been participating in a propagation pro- gram and is in the process of re-introducing several captive-born popula- tions into the Island of Jamaica. Several other zoos have jointly parti- cipated in breeding programs. With their cooperation, and the information obtained from field research, it is hoped that these endangered rodents can be saved from extinction. INTRODUCTION At one time, this remarkable group of rodents from the Carribean comprised a widely distributed and plentiful group of the family Capromyidae. Of the six recognized genera, only three are now extant and all but one of the surviving species are rare or listed as endangered mammals by the IUCN Red Data Book. Their present status is a typical result of the im- pact of man on a special environment. FORMER DISTRIBUTION Recent fossil taxa demonstrates that the family Capromyidae was once more abundant, widespread and diverse than at present (Oliver, 1977). Living forms contain only ten species, much reduced from its former flourish. There are several causal factors in the decline and destruction of the hutia populations. The most destructive comes from predation by man and the introduction of competitive carnivores. The hutia is considered an edible delicacy and has been hunted by man and dog since the earliest pre- Columbian settlement of the islands. It is probably that hutias were an important food source for early settlers, as the fossils of several ex- tinct species were found associated with human artifacts (Oliver, 1977) . CURRENT STATUS In general terms, predation by man is less a factor in the current de- cline of hutia populations than it was in former times. Although all species are legally protected, many, like the Jamaican hutia (G. bAQLVnoc) , are still hunted. The Cuban hutia ( C ♦ plioSildeA ) can even be legally hunted at special times during the year. Introduction of exotics since the European settlement has had a disastrous effect on the hutia population. Brown rats invaded the islands early, and multiplied raidly due to the absence of predators. The mongoose was 25 THE NATURAL AND ZOOLOGICAL HISTORY OF FOUR CAPROMYID RODENTS, Continued introduced to Jamiaca to counteract the rats. They had an immediate ef- fect, not only on the rats but on other indigenous rodents which quickly disappeared. Mongooses introduced to Haiti have had a direct impact on the living species PZagZodovvLui CULdLium. Attempts have been made to er- radicate the mongoose as in many places they are considered vermin, but these attempts have been unsuccessful. Cuban hutia ( Ca.ptiomy& pZZofu.d£A ) At the Tacoma Zoo in Washington, the largest species of hutia are provided with a spacious enclosure (3m2), and plenty of woody plants are placed in- side for food and climbing. Temperature is kept constant at 22-27°C (Johnson, Taylor & Winnick, 1975). In the wild, all species apparently retreat into hollow logs or crevices. In captivity, seclusion is neces- sary for the animal’s well being and is probably important for reproduc- tion (ibid.) The Tacoma Zoo studied the four species mentioned in the beginning. Water requirements for all the capromyids studied were low. In general, these requirements are satisfied by succulent foods. It was found that all animals could be kept without water as long as provided with succulents. Anatomical examination verified that all four species are "water conser- vers". The lengthening of the Loops of Henle in the kidney allow for maximum reabsorption of water (ibid.) Cuban hutias were observed to be largely diurnal. It tolerated group situations well, with some observable pecking order (ibid.) Vaginal smears were taken and the estrous cycle was found to average 16.3 days (range 13- 19 days) . Reproduction occured at any time of the year with a peak of bitths in June. The gestation period was determined at 123± 2 days. The nursing period averaged 153 days. The average weight at birth was 199g. Sexual maturity in males reached between 7-10 months; in females at about 10 months. The young are very precocial at birth; their eyes are open; they are fully furred; they are able to walk about; and the incisors have erupted. As shown by the skull of a newborn young, the pre-molar and the first molar have erupted and the second molar is in the process of erupting (Taylor, 1970) . No nursing was observed until one day of age. Observations of several litters indicated that the young eat small amounts of solid food from two days of age. By the fifth day, the young are eating small amounts of many kinds of succulents and are very sure footed. Females bear one young the first litter, then two or more. The data ob- tained supports the conclusion that Cuban hutias are polyestrous. Infor- mation on reproductive span and longevity is limited. A minimum repro- ductive span was for two years, nine months. It is probably much longer that this, judging from the longevity records (9 years, 8 months) but no factual data are available (Taylor, 1968). The Santa Fe Community College Teaching Zoo in Gainesville, FL received four Cuban hutias from Dr. Charles Woods of the Florida State Museum. He, in turn, received them from the National Zoo in Washington, D.C. The animals came to Santa Fe in July 1980. The zoo housed the two males and two females in a large outdoor enclosure where a pair shared several areas together, and the other male and female were isolated from each other. 26 THE NATURAL AND ZOOLOGICAL HISTORY OF FOUR CAPROMYID RODENTS, Continued Temperatures ranges from 105°F in the summer to 15°F in the winter. Each area had one of several dens, some constructed of concrete and others of oak barrels. These dens were furnished with hay yearround with extra added in the winter to provide more warmth for the hutias. They ate a wide variety of fruits and vegetables and were provided with branches to climb on and fresh water to drink, although they were seldom seen drink- ing (pers. comment). These particular animals were returned to the Florida State Museum in 1984. The animals never reproduced while at the Santa Fe Zoo, even after ex- changing males and females. It is probably that the hutias were too old to breed, as most were 8-9 years of age. Bahamian hutia [GeoccLpfiomyA t, tngsta.kamt) The sole remaining population of Bahamian hutias is on East Plana Cay, a very small, semi-arid atoll in the Bahamas. Field studies by Clough (1972) on East Plana Cay reveal that the population is at or near estimated capac- ity in terms of environmental support - the population being estimated at 6000-12,000 individuals. The hutias are the dominant vertebrate species and have no natural predators; mortality is disease dependent (Oliver, 1977). The high density population is maintained by low reproduction and high social tolerance. Robert J. Howe (Zoology Dept., University of Rhone Island) maintained a colony of wild-caught Bahamian hutias to study the social behavior of small groups in captivity. Three small groups were established contain- ing 3-4 animals of both males and females. The floor was covered with wood chips and two wooden shelters were provided. Hutias were observed behind a sound-dampening blind which contained a small one-way glass. A single male was usually compatible with a single female. However, ser- ious strife sometimes resulted between two females caged with a single male. Groups of hutias in the largest room established social hierarchies which usually reduced agonistic behavior. However, the studies indicated that the sexual state of a captive female hutis may contribute to periodic increases in fighting. As a female became more sexually attractive to males, the agonistic behavior increased within the group (Howe, 1971). The Florida State Museum received a shipment of wild-caught Bahamian hutias in March of 1981. They arrived at the museum’s behavior laboratory in two groups of four animals each, consisting of at least one female and one juvenile per group. Each group was maintained in a wooden cage lm x 2m with sawdust on the cage bottom (Figure 1) . PVC pipe was furnished for refuge areas and air kennel tops and bottoms were also used. The animals were observed huddled together for the first couple of weeks. Eventually, individuals would venture out of the tubes and kennels to spend part of the day in the view of the observer (myself) . It was decided to provide the hutias with one large cage instead of two smaller ones. This was done and resulted in an increased amount of fighting in which several animals received lacerations on the eyes and other body parts. Several hutias required medical treatment provided by the University of Florida Veterinary College. One juvenile female was found dead. Eventually, the animals re-established themselves and settled down. My last observations of these hutias were in 1982, but as far as is known, the colony continues to reside in the behavior lab and several young have been born. The gestation period of the Bahamian has not been precisely determined. 27 THE NATURAL AND ZOOLOGICAL HISTORY OF FOUR CAPROMYID RODENTS, Continued B- V\uY'\ CA.0^6 with galvanized wire mesh as the hutias chewed through several cage bottoms. PVC pipe was placed in each unit and also placed so the hutias could travel from unit to unit. They were also used as capture nets. Evidence suggests that there may be considerable individual variation. The six laboratory births at the University of Rhode Island were all single births with different gestation periods. One female gave birth 88 days after a copulation. Three days later, after giving birth, this same fe- male was sexually receptive and copulated twice with the same male. Bucher gives 193-203 days as the hutia gestation period (Howe & Clough, 1971). Newborns are precocious, related to the long gestation period. When new- born young were observed a few hours after birth, they were walking about with their eyes open. The hutias began eating solid food by at least the third day of life and perhaps earlier. The relative independence of these young at birth is probably related to the absence of nest construction (ibid. ) Intense forms of agnostic behavior occured when groups were being estab- lished, when strangers were added to an already established group, and, to a lesser degree, when sexually attractive females were present. After one or two days of considerable agnostic behavior, a social hierarchy with a dominant male is established. Once social hierarchies are set up, they remain unchanged as long as the same animals remain together. A mild threat is usually sufficient to cause a submissive male to turn or move away. During most of the time, the hutias remained compatible and fed together (ibid.) 28 THE NATURAL AND ZOOLOGICAL HISTORY OF FOUR CAPROMYID RODENTS, Continued Haitian hutia ( VlcigtodontiXL uedilum) This remaining genus native to the Domican Republic and Haiti comprises three species, two of which are extinct. The remaining living species, Ciedium, is still hunted by man and specially trained dogs. In addition, their habitat is undergoing progressive clearance and they are preyed upon by introduced moongoose. Little is known of the habits of the Haitian hutia in the wild. This species is regarded as strictly nocturnal and must be exhibited under a reversed lighting regime. They are not usually fastidious eaters and being essentially vegetarians, they will accept a wide variety of commonly available foods. The Haitian hutia is more arboreal and utilizes nest boxes placed high off the ground. They do not construct nests and together with a very long gestation period (119 days), relate to the precocial nature of the neonate. The recent importation of Haitian hutias from which are derived all specimens currently in captivity, originally comrpised only a very small number of animals sired by a single male (Oliver, 1977). They were found to have an estrous cycle of ten days. A female under the care of the Florida State Museum gave birth as it was isolated, suggesting that it was pregnant at its arrival. The newborn was observed a short time after birth (by myself), had its eyes open and was locomoting very well. It was also seen suckling from its mother's laterally located nipples several times. The day after birth, it was seen suckling and eating some of the solid food provided for its mother. At Tacoma Zoo in Washington, Haitian hutia was the most particular of the species maintained, although those that survived the best also learn- ed to generalize their diet. Reingestion of the fecal matter (caprophagy) was so marked that fecal residue was almost non-existant , even after several months. This may have been a symptom of nutritional deficiency (Taylor, 1970). ?la.QlodowtLCi always acted aggressively, even when quite young. Recently, caught animals could be shipped in pairs or small groups, but prolonged captivity produced an increasing amount of agonistic behavior, requiring a selective reduction in numbers placed together (Johnson, Taylor & Winnick 1974). Jamaican hutia (Geocapromys b. brownii) Until recently, this hutia species was thought to be restricted to several areas on the island of Jamaica. Destruction of habitat, deforestation, hunting and the introduction of the mongoose have all contributed to the decline of G. bsLObOntc. Several other endemic species of rodents, birds and reptiles have been exterminated in recent times, a result of which the Jamaican hutia is the island's only surviving terrestrial mammal (Oliver, 1985). A recent field study conducted for six months in 1982 by William Oliver of the Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust suggests that the hutis is far more plentiful and widespread than previously thought. The hutia is found today in a wide diversity of habitats from the cool, wet montane forests of the John Crow Mountains to the hot, dry limestone scrub forests of Hellshire (Oliver, 1982) (See Figure 2). The wider distribution may be accounted for by their continuing occurence in several areas where they had not been previously reported for many years, or where they had not been reported at all as well as a more widespread distribution over regions where they were commonly known to occur. 29 THE NATURAL AND ZOOLOGICAL HISTORY OF FOUR CAPROMYID RODENTS. CowUvwlqA Fig. 2 - Present known distribution of extant population of G. btiowvusL. (Will iam 01 iver 1985) It is important to note that the distribution of the surviving populations is intimately associated with the occurance of natural fissures and solu- tion cavities in exposed rock formations. The availability of these holes is the single most important factor common to the diverse range of popu- lated habitats (ibid.). As it was previously thought that the Jamaican hutia was more endangered than recently discovered, a captive propagation program was begun in 1972 at the Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust. The hutias are maintained in paired social family groups in a series of interconnecting, glass-fronted enclosures (Figure 3). As they are essentially a nocturnal species, they are maintained under a reversed lighting regime for public exhibition pur- poses. Cages are provided with heaters for the colder months. Several of the housing units are filled with hay which is changed regularly .The Jamaican hutia causes gnawing damage on uncovered or unprotected exposed wood. Certain areas of the nest box are painted with an apparently dis- tasteful household emulsion, tin sheeting or galvanized wire mesh. Re- moveable lids allow for easy inspection and cleaning. The cages are furnished with tree stumps, logs and networks of branches for climbing and roosting. Sawdust is used on the cage floors. Water is provided continuously and the hutias drink frequently, even though per- manent water is usually unavailable to them in Jamaica (Oliver, 1985). They are given a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, seeds and cereal products, as well as fresh cut leafy branches of elm, apple, willow and beech. No reproductive activity was recorded at the Trust until 1975 following the arrival of additional wild-caught animals. An estimated gestation period of ±123 days was determined by (Oliver, 1975). These births rep- resented the first successful reproduction of this species outside Jamaica. During the ensuing nine-year period to 31 December 1984, a total of sixty- one litters of ninety-five young were born at the Trust. There appears to be no seasonality of births as they were recorded in all months of the year (Figure 4) . The young are precocial at birth, as most species of hutias. They are fully furred and able to walk soon after birth. They are seen eating solid food 24-48 hours after birth. Suckling is rarely observed, thus the age of weaning is as yet unknown. 30 THE NATURAL AND ZOOLOGICAL HISTORY OF FOUR CAPROMYID RODENTS, ConZimizd Fig. 3 - Hutia nest box design (William Oliver 1985) Fig. 4 - Frequency distribution of date of birth of fifty-eight litters of Gzoc.oipn.omy -6 bnowvul born at Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust during the ten-year period 1975 to 1984 (incl.) (William Oliver 1985) 31 THE NATURAL AND ZOOLOGICAL HISTORY OF FOUR CAPROMYID RODENTS, ConUmiad A number of these captive-born hutias have been exported to other collec- tions, including the Florida State Museum, who in turn received theirs from the Berlin Zoo. They are maintained at the museum’s behavior lab- oratory in the situation previously described for Bahamian hutias. How- ever, the Trust has had such an increase in population size over the ten- year period since 1975 that it consequently sufferd from maintaining too many individuals in its facilities. With the overcrowding comes a much greater risk of a high mortality rate in the event of an outbreak of a contagious disease. As it happens, an outbreak of viral pneumonia occured in 1979 resulting in the loss of 50% of the Trust's hutia population. Eventually, the population increase was slowed by maintaining individuals in non-breeding situations or large family groups. As it became clear that the Jamaican hutia was not in immediate danger of extinction in the wild, a need to re-evaluate the relevance of the Trust’s breeding program became evident. The program has met its initial criteria of maintaining a captive population and generating new knowledge of the husbandry, biology, ecology and status of the species. The problem became whether the program’s continuation could be justified in an already overcrowded environment and with the difficulty to disposing of surplus stock. The idea to investigate the feasability of a reintroduction program became possible. A reintroduction program was at first considered inappropriate (Oliver, 1982) as addition of captive-bred stock to an area supporting existing wild populations would not only be unsuccessful, but might even have a negative impact from undue competition for limited resources and the possible risks of disease transmission. However, it was considered feasible to reintroduce Jamaican hutia to an area where this species has been extirpated in recent historical times (Oliver, 1975). There appear to be several suitable areas on the west side of the island, some of which are still forested, and in all other respects comparable to sites where the hutia survives. Evidence indicates the species was eliminated in these areas by past hunting pressure and the lack of available secure holes. It is reasoned that with the cessation of hunting and the addition of artificial holes, the species could survive. The sites were carefully selected to avoid contact with the wild population and lessen the chance of disease outbreak and undue competition. It is suggested that this proposed project be developed along the lines of a model study of a reintroduction program. This would provide detail- ed observations of the Jamaican hutia in its natural state and the tech- niques used for the study could be examined and improved. The only prob- lem is deemed to be the assurance of a totally protected study area as Jamaica has an established network of national parks. One area was able to fulfill all criteria mentioned (Figure 5). The site is privately owned by amateur naturalists and well protected against human encroachment. Hutias have never been reported there, although the habitat is similar to other wet limestone forest blocks where they still occur. There is no evidence to suppose that Jamaican hutia did not pre- viously exist in this area, especially since two surviving populations have been described fairly near this location. The site is isolated enough to prevent contact by these near-neighbors and had been actively maintained by the land owners in its natural state. The implementation of the reintroduction program began in May 1984 with the shipment of 22 hutias transferred to the Hope Zoo in Jamaica. There they will remain until January or February 1986 when they will be releas- 32 THE NATURAL AND ZOOLOGICAL HISTORY OF FOUR CAPROMYID RODENTS, Continued ed into the study site, and another contingent of the Trust’s hutias will be transferred to the Hope Zoo. The Hope Zoo's cooperation will allow the hutias to acclimatize prior to their release and has relieved some of the overcrowding at the Trust. To be included in the study will be a survey of pre-release sites with detailed mapping and vegetational analysis a selection for the construction of artificial nest sites and construction of temporary holding facilities at the release site. Post-release moni- toring by direct observation and radio telemetry will be continued for at least three years - January 1986 to April 1989 (inclusive). Fig. 5 - Approximate location of the proposed re-introduction site. (Will iam 01 iver 1985) CONCLUSION The four extant species mentioned in this paper comprise a remarkable group of rodents endangered from encroachment by man including destruc- tion of habitat, deforestation and hunting. Captive husbandry programs by zoological institutions around the world have been successful in the propagation of these species. Field surveys have demonstrated that one species of hutia, GL_ bsiowyuA., was more abundant in the wild than previous- ly thought, suggesting a need for further field research. Reintroduction has become feasible and is to be studied as a model for other reintroduc- tion programs. It is hoped that with this continuing research and inter- est, the hutia will not become one of the many to be exterminated by man. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS My special thanks to Richard Rosen, Dr. Charles Woods and Margaret Lang- worthy who all got me interested in these wonderful creatures. BIBLIOGRAPHY Brochstein, B.S., "The Reproduction, Care and Maintenance of Carribean Capromyid Rodents". Graduation paper, Santa Fe Community College Teaching Zoo. 22 pages. 1981. Durrell, Gerald., "The Jamaican Hutia". Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust, Ninth Volume, pgs. 32-34. 1972. Dusterwald, Stefni., "Observations on the Social Behavior of Two Captive Groups of the Jamaican Hutia Gzoc.CLpfiomy& bsiou)viLl bAOMLCt" . Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust. 8 pages. 1984. 33 THE NATURAL AND ZOOLOGICAL HISTORY OF FOUR CAPROMYID RODENTS, CoruUnuzd Howe, Robert J., "Marking Behavior of the Bahamian Hutia [G inQHRkcLrnL) . Animal Behavior. Vol. 22. Pgs. 645-649. August 1974. "Social Behavior of Bahamian Hutias in Captivity". Florida Scientist. Pgs. 8-13. 1976. Howe, Robert; Clough, Garrett C., "The Bahamian Hutia in Captivity". International Zoo Yearbook, Volume 11. 1971. Johnson, M.L. ; Taylor, R.H. ; Winnick, N.W. "The breeding and exhibition of capromyid rodents at the Tacoma Zoo". International Zoo Yearbook, Volume 15. Pgs. 53-56. 1975. Oliver, William L.R. "The hutias of the West Indies". International Zoo Yearbook, Volume 17. Pgs. 14-20. 1977. "The Jamaican Hutia". International Zoo Yearbook. Volume 14, Pgs. 10-17. 1974. "The Coney and the Yellow Snake: the distribution and status of the Jamaican Hutia GlQCLCipKomy. 4 bfiObOyuA, and the Jamaican Boa EpZcJiaXeJ> AubfiZaviU)" . Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust Dodo, Vol. 19, Pgs. 6-33. 1982. "The Jamaican Hutia or Indian Coney (Ge.Qcapsiomy-6 bsiotAMAA.} - A model program for Captive Breeding and Re-Introduction?". The Management of Rodents in Captivity — Proceedings of Symposium No. 10. The Association of British Wild Animal Keepers. Pgs. 35-53. 1985. Riordan, David V., "Notes on the Cuban Hutia CCLptiomy. 4 piX.OftA.dgJ> " . Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust, Tenth Volume. Page 38. 1973. Taylor, R.H. "Reproduction, development and behavior of the Cuban Hutia conga, CapA.omy-6 pAjtonJjdQA , in captivity". Unpublished thesis. Univer- sity of Puget Sound, Tacoma, WA. 1970. POULTRY CLASS TEACHES VALUABLE LESSON Su.bmAjtt sc W > X rsi O O I’M -H O O o r- o o s cr> r~ IM H —A C7 o CO O o ;> r~ > 30 l\) T? -< O > o 7V O 7S 00 5d on?^S,> TJ <0 ?r 05 ££§ n| S-8 9 ■ *S *c§ ££ 3 CD« §■$ f gjsJS 8 I is I On jo 05 •-t 7T 3 5* 9’ g-Si P- f®a% o ST •8 S FEBRUARY 1987 Animal Keepers' Forum dedicated to Professional Animal Care ANIMAL KEEPERS1 FORUM, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606. Executive Editor: Alice Miser Managing Editor: Susan Chan Associate Editor: Ron Ringer FEBRUARY 1987 VOLUME FOURTEEN NUMBER TWO Animal KeepeAt’ FoAum (ISSN 0164-9531) is a monthly journal of the American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc., 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606. Five dollars of each membership fee goes toward the annual pub- lication costs of Animal KeepeAt* FoAum. Second Class postage paid at Topeka, KS. Postmaster: Please send address changes to: AMERICAN ASSOCIATION Of ZOO KEEPERS , INC. NATIONAL HEAVQUARTERS, 63 5 GAGE BLVV., TOPEKA , KS 66606 Bcuibcum. MantpeakeA, AdmlnlttAatlve SecAetaAy BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jean Hromadka, San Diego Wild Animal Park Escondido, CA 92025 Frank B. Kohn, National Zoological Park Washington, DC 20008 Oliver Claffey, Metro Toronto Zoo, Toronto, Ontario, Susan M. Barnard, Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30315 Kerry Hoffman, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Tucson, PAetldent Vice PAntldent Canada AZ 85743 COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS/PROJECT HEADS Conference Book Committee Phil Pennock, Woodland PaAk Awards Committee Rachel RogeAt, Miami MetAozoo Book Review Coordinator Kathy SuchaAltakul, A kAon Zoo Legislative Action Committee Becky RogeAt, Topeka Zoo International Affairs Co-Coordinators and Pm McVougall, CalgaAy Zoo (west) Staff Exchange ElandAa A am, Woodland PaAk Zoo Program Library Pebble Jackton, Little Rock Zoo Continuing Keeper Education Pat SammaAco, Lincoln Rank Zoo Research/Grants Committee Fnank Kohn/Kact Thompson, NZP Public Education Committee Jay Jot an, Staten Inland Zoo AAZK History Committee Ant GoodAlch, San Diego Zoo - Melba Shleldt, National Zoo [eatt] Animal Data Transfer Forms BeAnle Feldman , BuA.net PaAk Zoo Membership Directory Pat SammaAco, Lincoln PaAk Zoo Exhibit Design Form VZane Fontyth, Akxon Zoo Keeper Accommodations List OllveA Clayey, M etAo ToAonto Zoo Diet Notebook Sut an Bunn, Minnesota Zoo Biological Values/Gestation GAeateA San Fnancltco Bay Aa ea ChapteA Keeper Training Videotapes Library Resources Wayne Buchanan , Woodland PaAk Zoo Kact Thompson, NZP Keeper Training Materials Identification Infant Development Notebook RoAemany Jallnk, MHZ Mountain Zoo Steven Wing, Milwaukee Zoo Reference Search Nominations & Elections Liz McLaughlin, RogeA William 4 PaAk Janet McCoy, Wat king ton PaAk Zoo Zoo, Jenny R ent^Aow, Maton, MI CO-DIRECTORS REGIONAL COORDINATORS States East of the Mississippi - Diane KAug, White Oak Plantation, Vulee, FL States West of the Mississippi - VebbeAa StecheA, Woodland PaAk Zoo, Seattle, WA Individual Regional CooAdlnatont and the i>tatet undeA thelA oveAtlght aAe titled eltmheAe In each lt-6ue ofi Animal KeepeAt ' FoAum. VexktuAed on this month.1 A coven Xa the Month. Amenlcan BadgeA ( Taxldae tax.uA) dnawn by Tom La Bange, a cannlvone keepen at the. new Bun.net Vank. loo In SyAacuAe, MV. A memben oh the. iamXJLy known oa muAtellds , the. badgen fitndA mo At oh XtA hood undeAgnound. One. oh the. wo Aid1 A hteAt digging mammalA, Xt huntA by bneaklng Into the. bunnowA oh gopkeAA, natA and AquXAAelA. The. badgeA’A wide, h^al body can be uAed to block the entnance oh XtA den and the looAe holds oh Akin on the AldeA oh XtA body make Xt dlhhdcult hon pnedatonA to get a good hold on a badgen . Thanks , Tom! Scoops and CHANGE IN RC POSITIONS ANNOUNCED Gene Pfeffer, Philadelphia Zoo, has resigned as RC for the states of PA, DEL, NJ, AND MD. Denise Robinson, also of Philadelphia, will be assuming this area of responsibility. Peter Buchholz, Bronx Zoo, has taken two new areas under his RC responsibilities. Peter will now be RC for NY, VA and the District of Columbia. RC Co-Director Diane Krug has also announced the resignations of Pat Hook, Riverbanks Zoo, and Lynn Villers, Indianapolis Zoo, from their respective RC positions. AAZK thanks Gene, Pat and Lynn for their work in the past and welcomes Denise to her new position. There are still two RC areas which need RC's to be assigned. See the Regional Coordinators listing in this month's AKF (see gold insert). FOREIGN KEEPER SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM CONTINUES TO GROW Scuttlebutt Joing the Tucson and Atlanta Chapters in the sponsorship of a keeper from a foreign country are several AAZK Chapters and/or individuals. The Rocky Mountain Chapter in Denver has "adopted" two keepers, one in India and one in Honduras. The Flint Hills Chapter, Manhattan, KS, has agreed to sponsor a keeper from Orissa, India. AAZK member Art Cooper, Front Royal, is sponsoring a game warden in Ghana, West Africa. The Kansas City AAZK Chapter is sponsoring an individual in Brazil and the San Diego Zoo AAZK Chapter recently "adopted" the Deputy Director of the Zoological Society of Thai- land. It is hoped this sponsorship program will enhance our knowledge about zookeeping worldwide and provide AAZK with the opportunity to assist sponsored individuals in the acquisition of educational and husbandry materials. If you or your Chapter is interested in sponsoring a foreign keeper, contact either of the International Affairs Coordinators listed on the front inside cover of AKF . CO-FOUNDER OF INTERNATIONAL CRANE FOUNDATION DEAD AT 38 Ronald T. Sauey, co-founder of the International Crane Foundation in Baraboo, WI died on 7 January of a cerebral hemmorrage. Sauey and George Archibald established the foundation in late 1970 on land owned by Sauey 's parents. The goal of the foundation was to build a breeding population of the endangered crane species that could be used to restock the wild flocks or at least assure that the depleated species would not die out entirely. The foundation became world famous for its success in breeding these en- dangered species and specialists from all over came to the foundation to study and conduct research. The International Crane Foundation was par- ticularly known for its work in Japan, China and India where they worked with local ornithologists and government officials on protection and recovery plans for those nation's endangered crane species. ® 37 Coming Events 6TH ANNUAL NATIONAL WILDLIFE REHAB ILITATORS ASSOC. SYMPOSIUM March 18-22, 1987 Clearwater Beach, FL For more information contact: Symposium Information, Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary, 18328 Gulf, Blvd., Indian Shores, FL 33535 (813) 391-6211, Attn: Barb Suto. AAZPA NORTHEASTERN REGIONAL CONFERENCE March 15-17, 1987 Syracuse, NY For more information contact: James Aiello, Curator Education/Docent Chairman, Burnet Park Zoo, Syracuse, NY 13204 (315) 425-3775. AAZPA WESTERN REGIONAL CONFERENCE April 5-7, 1987 Fresno, CA For more information contact: Scott Ransom, Asst. Zoo Manager, Fresno Zoo, 894 Belmont Ave., Fresno, CA 93728 (209) 488-1549. AAZPA CENTRAL REGIONAL CONFERENCE April 12-14, 1987 Colorado Springs, CO For more information contact: Gerald Brady, General Curator, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Box 158, Colorado Springs, CO 80901 (303) 633-0917. AAZPA GREAT LAKES REGIONAL CONFERENCE April 26-28, 1987 St. Louis, MO For more information contact: William Boever, DVM, St. Louis Zoological Park, Forest Park, St. Louis, MO 63110 (314) 781-0900. AAZPA SOUTHERN REGIONAL CONFERENCE May 3-5, 1987 Tampa, FL For more information contact: Judith Breuggeman, Education Coordinator, Busch Gardens, Box 9158, Tampa, FL (813) 988-5171. AAZK 20TH ANNIVERSARY "FOUNDERS WEEKEND" May 5,6,7, 1987 San Diego, CA Held to honor the original founders of AAZK, the "weekend" will include workshops, tours, banquet etc. For an information/registration packet contact AAZK Historian Art Goodrich, Mammal Dept., San Diego Zoo, Box 551, San Diego, CA 92112. BOTANICAL AND WILDLIFE ART SHOW May 14-17, 1987 Los Angeles, CA For more information contact: Patti Glover, Los Angeles Zoo, 5333 Zoo Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90027 (213) 664-1100. 38 COMING EVENTS, Continued FIRST INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN'S ZOO SYMPOSIUM 1-4 July 1987 Philadelphia, PA As we all know, keepers are essential for the successful learning exper- ience of the casual visitor to a Children's Zoo. Keeper participation is also essential for a successful Children's Zoo Symposium. We would like keepers to present papers and participate in workshops during this symposium. The symposium will focus on History and Philosophy, Design and Learning, and Animal Collection and Purpose. There will be pre- and post-conference trips to the Bronx and Baltimore Zoos plus much more, registration is $100.00. For further information, contact: Robert Callahan, Curator of Children's Zoo, Philadelphia Zoo, 34th St. & Girard Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19104 (215) 243-1100, Ext. 300. APPLYING BEHAVIORAL RESEARCH TO ZOO ANIMAL MANAGEMENT July 18-25, 1987 Seattle, WA Hosted by the Woodland Park Zoological Gardens. For more information contact: William Karesh, DVM, Animal Health Dept., Woodland Park Zoo, 5500 Phinney Ave. N., Seattle, WA 90103. Enrollment limited to 40 par- ticipants. Registration fee is $80 if paid by 1 May and $100 thereafter. THE SOCIETY FOR THE STUDY OF AMPHIBIANS & REPTILES/ HERPETOLOGISTS LEAGUE ANNUAL MEETING August 9-15, 1987 Veracruz, Mexico Hosted by the Institute of Biology of the National Autonomous University of Mexico. For further information contact: Richard Vogt, Estacion de Biologia Tropical "Los Tuxtlos", Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Apart. Post 94, San Andres Tuxtla, Veracruz, Mexico. 13TH NATIONAL AAZK CONFERENCE October 4-8, 1987 Milwaukee, WI Hosted by the Milwaukee County Zoo AAZK Chapter. Watch your Forum for registration details. For more information contact: Steve Wing, Milwaukee County Zoo, 10001 Bluemound Rd., Milwaukee, WI 53226. 39 AAZK AWARD NOMINATIONS ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED FOR 1987! The AAZK Awards Committee would like to begin to accept nominations for the awards to be presented at the 1987 AAZK Conference in Milwaukee. In the following months there will be information concerning the qualifica- tions, nomination procedure, selection procedure, and an explanation of the AAZK EXCELLENCE IN ZOOKEEPING (EZ) , CERTIFICATE OF MERIT FOR ZOOKEEPER EDUCATION (CMZE) , and the MERITORIOUS ACHIEVEMENT (MA) awards. The deadline for all award nominations is 1 JUNE 1987, so please keep this in mind when submitting your nominations. All awards given by AAZK have no minimum or maximum number offered each year, but if the nominees do not meet the qualifications and nominations procedure, they will not receive the award for which they were nominated. Please submit all nominations to: Rachel Rogers, Chairperson AAZK Awards Committee METROZOO 12400 SW 152 Street Miami, FL 33177 AAZK CERTIFICATE OF MERIT FOR ZOOKEEPER EDUCATION AWARD This award is given to the zoo or aquarium most actively promoting educa- tional programs for zookeepers. This may include: keeper training courses, staff seminars, and reimbursement for formal education would be considered programs that are descriptive of this award. Qualifications: 1. Any North American zoological institution or aquarium is eligible. 2. The keeper training program must have been in existence for at least one year. Nomination Procedure: If you feel that your zoo or aquarium merits such an award, please submit a letter of nomination which mentions specifically the educational pro- grams that are offered. Selection Procedure: The Awards Committee, consisting of five keepers, will independently review each nominee . AWARD DEADLINE 1 JUNE 1987 Next month: AAZK Meritorious Achievement Award CAUZ SEEKS TO LINK AQUARIUMS, UNIVERSITIES & ZOOS IN BENEFICIAL PARTNERSHIP ATTENTION MEMBERS : Recently, AAZ K has become an active participant In the newly established network CAUZ, the Consortium oft Aquarium s, Univer- sities and Zoos. CAUZ was formed In response to the real need for a formal educational and research link between the university and the aq- uarium/ zoo worlds. Dr. Vonna Hardy of California State University , North- ridge, Introduced the program at a formal meeting held at the F acuity Center, CSUN, on 21 August, 1985. Sixty noteworthy professors and pro- fessionals from many aquariums, universities , museums and zoos In the United States met to share Ideas and explore the functions of the Con- sortium. The following were the Ideas presented. Eurther Information on CAUZ will be presented In upcommlng Issues of AKE. — Jean Hromadka, AAZ K President CAUZ - Part 1 -There is a need for both increased involvement of universities in re- search at zoos as well as an increased cooperation between zoos and research projects. -There is a need for faculty to understand how zoo research is conducted. -Because of increasing problems in housing animals in university labora- tories, researchers should make more use of opportunities to conduct research at the zoo. -The Nature Conservancy is anxious to have field research conducted at its preserves. -Educational programs in zoos have grown greatly in the past 15 years, but most of these programs have been aimed at the elementary level. It is time for the development of new educational programs for older students as well as adults. -Clearing Houses established by some zoos (primarily for distribution of animal parts) can be more widely used for educational and research pro- jects in universities and museums. -The university can help zoos train volunteers in zoo education and zoos can aid the university in its role in training science educators. -The zoo and the university can co-sponsor education symposiums as well as continuing education courses. -University professors need to increase conservation awareness in their students as well as introduce them to the great importance of zoos in their role of preservation of rare and endangered species. -Aquariums/Zoos can use university personnel to conduct needed research programs with minimal expense to the zoo. -The consortium makes available a data bank of information, including funding sources, literature searches, etc. Speaker topics included: "The Relationship Between Zoos and Universities From the Zoo Director's Perspective," by Dr. Terry Maple, Zoo Atlanta; "The Need for Standardized Research Protocols in Zoos," by Dr. Joe Erwin; funding methods, media center (slide, television, and graphics) facilities, library computerized searches of titles, courses presently taught on zoos, and other organizations of interest to the Consortium such as AAZPA and AAZK. 41 CAUZ - PART 1 , ConmmQ.d The Consortium feels that animal keepers are an important part of zoo research, supplying not only essential animal knowledge and daily time schedules, but also as a source of ideas for research needed to be done at the zoo. The Consortium is eager for AAZK members to participate in discussions and contribute their ideas about ways in which the Consortium can better integrate all parts of zoo research. The following points were made in the general discussion of the need for this concortium and its functions: 1. A network is needed to link educators and researchers at zoos, aquariums and universities. 2. Successful consortia in the C.S.U.C. system have a lot of capital in- volved; this Consortium needs a facility to establish its permanence. 3. Joint financial commitment of the zoos and universities is needed. 4. This Consortium network can help the university recognize how valuable a resource they have in the modern zoo and aquarium. 5. Zoos and aquariums can help the university in its maintenance of live animals. 6. The Consortium can help faculty who wish to do research at the zoo by providing training in observational techniques. 7 . Since much of the valuable work done at zoos and aquariums does not reach print, collaboration with university people can increase the possibility of its publication. 8. Since zoos and aquariums are obliged to work with university students as part of its educational commitment, the Consortium can help their professors provide better supervision and guidance with their projects. 9. The university can develop and coordinate extension courses involving zoos and aquariums for teacher education students as well as science teachers. 10. The special high ability high school students could be involved with the zoos and aquariums in the grant-funded summer programs. The following points were made in the general discussion of the forma- tion and structure of the organization: 1. Options in forming the organization include having the S. California Academy of Sciences or the Animal Behavior Society take it over. 2. The organization could begin informally as a conference, then later create a purpose; the organization could be formed as an institute, which has a singular purpose; since a consortium is more loosely arrang- ed than most other organizations, this form is the most appropriate for our purposes. 3. Voluntary participation in our organization is important. 4. The main function of our Consortium is creating a wide network for sharing of information - using electronic bulletin boards and a news- letter. The Consortium headquarters at the hosting institute can act as the information clearing house. 5. The Consortium can provide a procedural format for interns at zoos and aquariums, provide guidelines for professors as well as students for doing research at zoos and aquariums, coordinate long-tern series of individual students to work on single projects, provide skills-seminars to students and professors, etc. 6. Zoos can provide lists of projects of importance to them, including studies of visitor behavior and exhibit evaluation. 7. Consortium can provide a "skills bank" as well as pool resources. 8. A standardized data base can be provided by the Consortium for pool- ing animal resources [The ISIS database of AAZPA already exists] . 42 CAUZ - Part 1 , Continued. 9. The Consortium can link the university, zoo and aquarium researchers and educators with natural history museums, which have a long history of welcoming university researchers. 10. Zoo and aquarium educators can work with university educators in developing better teacher workshops as well as improving zoo education programs . ANIMAL KEEEPRS 1 ROLES IN THE CONSORTIUM 1. ] To give input on feasibility of research proposals. 2. ] Provide animal data: histories, diets, time schedules, animal identi- fications, social relationships, behavioral traits/problems. 3. ] Assist researcher by manipulation of: animals, cages, diets, time schedules . 4. ] Assist researcher with data collection. 5. ] Promote the consortium through AKF with articles by keepers on research projects. 6. ] Suggest possible research topics. 7. ] Tell researchers what aspects of their animals need to be studied (problems that need solving) and what is currently being studied. 8. ] Give talks to classes on what the occupation of Animal Keeper involves and how keepers manipulate their animals. BENEFITS FOR ANIMAL KEEPERS FROM THE CONSORTIUM 1. ] Acknowledgement on research papers. 2. ] Copy of research paper - results of study 3. ]Possibility of certificate program — "Certificate of Participation" 4. ] Bibliography of literature on the animals or problems being researched. 5. ] Observational /research skills and techniques 6. ] Representation and recognition by the consortium 7. ] Access to channels for funding: keeper research projects, trips abroad to study animals, presenting papers at conferences. 8. ] Access to university library facilities and topic scanning procedures. 9. ] Access to university film libraries (for AAZK lectures, etc.) 10. ] The use of university personnel and equipment to help solve existing problems with their animals. 11. ] Possible continuing education credits for participation in research or from courses offered by the consortium. From this first meeting that was held, a organizing committee was elect- ed and the consortium officially recognized Dr. Donna Hardy as President. The consortium will be providing a quarterly newsletter to anyone interested. For more information contact: Dr. Donna Hardy, Professor of Psychology, California State University, Northridge, Northridge, CA 91330 (818) 771— 5055. ( EcUXoa'a note: MoAe Incarnation on CAUZ will appeaA tn the MaAch Iaauc oC AKF. PaAt 2 will coven. Aome oC the IdeaA which came Cham the meeting 4 oC both the Education and PeieoAch GAoupA.) & 43 SAYING GOODBYE Laurence H, Brainard (1918 - 1986) Lasuiy SnatnaJid and a fanlund -In a qutet moment at tha San PsianctAco loo. Photo Ca&cUt: Judy Howasid It is always difficult saying goodbye to a friend. Larry was involved with the San Francisco Zoo for over 15 years, he was the "original volun- teer" . I have never met anyone with greater love and dedication to the San Francisco Zoo. Larry’s countless projects and accomplishments at the zoo bespeak his dedication. He helped organize the first Zoo Run in the country in 1976. He served for four years on the Docent Executive Committee and was instru- mental in founding our local chapter of the AAZK and was on the Board of Directors. He was the editor of the reference volume "Biological Values for Selected Mammals" and a recipient of the coveted "Good Egg" award. The list goes on and on. Larry's greatest contributions were not the ones with titles but rather the countless day to day little ways he found to help. He was always there in the Nursery, out giving one of his popular tours, in the class- room stapling and stuffing, on the phone helping with fundraising, or out for a stroll looking for someone who could use help. Whenever something needed to be done, Larry was there. Larry's happiest times were probably in the nursery. He helped raise the baby orangutans, Thelma and Oliver. The zoo was truely Larry's family. Larry simply didn't know how to give a little, he only knew how to give a lot. We will all miss him. 44 SAYING GOODBYE, Continued Contributions to the San Francisco Zoological Society may be made to the Laurence H. Brainard Memorial Fund. Norman Gershenz, President Greater San Francisco Bay Area AAZK Dear AAZK Members: Shortly before Christmas, I received the very sad news of Mr. Larry Brainard' s passing. Larry had been an active AAZK member who was at the time of his death, working in the Education Department of the San Francisco Zoo. Although Larry was retired and older than the average active AAZK member, he never showed signs of slowing down when it came to the Associa- tion. Most of you know of him through the countless hours he devoted to help produce our very popular publication Biological Values for Selected Mammal s , editions I and II. Recently he had spent most of his energy organizing the Greater San Francisco Bay Area Chapter which totals an im- pressive membership of over 100 individuals. Not only was he busy organ- izing the formation of chapter committees, but also served on a few of them as well. He had also offered some valuable suggestions for a few of National's popular projects such as the Keeper Accommodation List (KAL) and the formation of a chapter constitution, currently under review by the Board of Directors. Through his example, we can all discover many positive ways of contributing to the Association. Larry understood the importance of offering ideas and suggestions that would only help and strengthen AAZK. He was aware of the pleas National continues to vocal- ize to her members and that growth and improvements can only be accomp- lished through the concern and support of all those involved. On behalf of the AAZK Board of Directors and her members, I would like to offer our most sincere condolences to Larry's family, friends and co- workers. I know he will be sorely missed. Presently, we are discussing ways we would like to consider to show our appreciation and respect for Larry. One idea is to have a brief memorial in honor of Larry printed on the inside front cover of the next edition of the Biological Values publication. There has been a memorial fund established by the San Francisco Zoo so if anyone would like to make a personal contribution, please contact the zoo for more information. Jean Hromadka AAZK President Keeper’s Alert The AAZK-Milwaukee Chapter would like to thank all those who purchased the AAZK logo coffee mugs. The sales have been better than expected. The mugs became available nationally only last June, and we sold out 141st mug in November. Because of the overwhelming response we have had to re- order a second 12 dozen from the factory. Therefore, logo mugs are still available. See either the September or December 1986 issues of AKF for details on ordering. 45 AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF ZOOKEEPERS MILWAUKEE 1987 CONFERENCE '87 - First Call For Papers Papers will be accepted on a wide range of topics concerning zookeeping and animal husbandry, such as breeding, hand-rearing, diets or exhibits. Examples of papers can be found in the December 1986 issue of AKF. Papers will be published in the Forum, so use the "Guidelines for Typing Papers for AAZK Conference Proceedings". The guidelines will be publish- ed in a subsequent issue of AKF. Papers will be limited to 20 minutes followed by a 5 minute discussion period. An outline or abstract must be submitted by 15 July, 1987 along with the following information Name of Presenter Zoo Affiliation Po s i t i o n/T i 1 1 e Title of Paper Equipment Needed Send to: Papers Committee, AAZK Conference '87, Milwaukee County Zoo, 10001 W. Bluemound Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226. 46 MILWAUKEE - A Lot More Than The Three B's Beer, bratwurst and bowling. This is what you think of when you hear Milwaukee. While the three B’s are ingrained into our heritage, most people do not know of the charms our city of 1.4 million has to offer. Milwaukee is situated directly on Lake Michigan and has miles of beauti- ful beaches. The park system is one of the largest in the country. Sum- mertime brings us a different ethnic festival every weekend - IrishFest, Festa Italiana, AfroFest and GermanFest to name a few. Dubbed as one of the cleanest and most crime-free cities of its size, Milwaukee has a home- town feeling. The Milwaukee County Zoo is a beautifully wooded, 185-acre park with an emphasis on the predator-prey style of exhibition. Prey species such as antelope and zebra roam in large moated exhibits while the predators (lions, cheetahs, etc.) are viewed directly behind them. Over 4000 ani- mals from 600 species inhabit our facility. Rare and endangered species include bonobo, Indian rhino, Humboldt penguin and bongo antelope. The aviary includes two large walk-through flight exhibits. Four species of penguin are also exhibited here. The Primate Building features two breeding families of siamangs, gorillas, dianas and mandrills. The Rep- tile/Aquarium facility contains many species of reptiles, fish and in- vertebrates including 60+ lb. pacu and a 50,000-gallon freshwater tank called Lake Wisconsin. The Small Mammal Building exhibits 40 species, including five types of bats, many in mixed species exhibits. Our North American Trek displays moose, four species of bear and the agile Dali sheep. A management program of our three Asian and two African elephants was begun in 1980 and has progressed far in seven years. The hoof stock area contains bactrian camel, antelope and storks, cranes and vultures from Africa, Asia and South America. Directly in the center is our Feline Building which exhibits 10 species of cats and hyenas. Our Aus- tralian Building exhibits marsupials and birds such as red kangaroo, emu and kookaburra. The Children's Zoo is the new home to our dairy barn, and antique octa- gonal barn featuring dairy cows and interpretative graphics. The dolphin facility, new in 1986, will provide an informative show with two dolphins and a California sea lion. We have planned the dates for the conference, 4-8 October, with the chang- ing colors of the leaves in mind. The reds, oranges and yellows should be at their peak during your visit. Daily temperatures should be 60-70°F, but the nights could be chilly. See you all in October. 47 CONFERENCE HEADQUARTERS The Sheraton Mayfair Inn The Sheraton Mayfair Inn is ideally located just off Highway 45, across from the Mayfair Shopping Mall, and minutes from the Milwaukee County Zoo. We offer 150 luxurious guest rooms and suites, each with color TV, alarm clock, and all rooms have 24-hours of movies, news and sports. For fine dining, entertainment and dancing, may we suggest Bannisters Restaurant and Brandy's Lounge, located right in the Inn. All hotel guests are encouraged to relax in our heated indoor pool and sauna . Free covered parking is avail- able for up to 400 cars. Based on your sleeping requirements, the Sheraton Mayfair Inn can offer a special rate of $50.00 single or double occupancy . The Sheraton Mayfair Inn will assure you of an experienced staff, trained to fill the needs of your conference. Regis- tration forms will follow in the March issue of Animal Keepers' Forum . A PUZZLE THAT CAN PAY OFF The Milwaukee County Zoo will be sponsoring a raffle during the Conference. Two nights free lodging will be donated by the Sheraton Mayfair Inn. Tickets will be sold at registra- tion, during the Conference. By filling out the crossword puzzle on the opposite page, you can gain two free chances. Three or four clues will be presented each month in upcoming issues of the Forum . Answers can be found somewhere in the Conference '87 information. We suggest you make a photocopy of the puzzle so that you can fill it in each month as the clues are revealed. Here are the first four clues: ACROSS: 5. Milwaukee County Zoo emphasizes the -prey style of exhibition. 23. Parking at the conference will cost how much? 25. Milwaukee is on the shores of what Great Lake? DOWN: 8. Sheraton Mayfair Inn has an indoor heated 48 Never a Cross-word in Milwaukee... Until Now. AAZK MILWAUKEE 19 8 7 49 Quality exotic animal diets Cl PirrTOl T1UI Nutritiona,|y balanced OlDu II VAJDH Fixed formulation • Economical When you need a complete line of high-quality dry and frozen animal diets for your feeding program, call Animal Spectrum. NEBRASKA BRAND h 1 SPECTRUM BROOD-RITE HEATERS Frozen feline diets Frozen bird of prey diets Frozen canine diet Chunk and chopped horsemeat, hearts, livers, rib, shank, and knuckle bones The original gluten-free primate diets. Banana flavored primate, 15% protein Banana flavored primate, Pro-Plus 25% protein Omnivore dry Polar Bear dry Ratite dry Hoofstock supplement, with Selenium Bulbless heaters— nothing to break. Safe around all animals and bedding material. Even heat distribution in 240, 500, or 750 wattages. One call does it all ££ 1-800-228-4005 In Nebraska, call collect 402/488-6492 Animal Spectrum, Inc. Box 6307 Lincoln, NE 68506-0307 Watch this space for what's new for zoos! Chapter News APPALACHIAN CHAPTER The Appalachian Chapter is pleased to announce the newly elected of- ficers for 1987. They are: President Rosemary Jalink VP/Treas Carolann Curry Secretary Laurie Thomas Some new activities the Chapter will be involved with this year include AAZK Awareness Day at Mill Mountain Zoo in August and assistance with the Mill Mountain Zoo’s Annual Auction. Chapter members will seek donations of items for the auction and Mill Mountain Zoo will split the pro- ceeds of the auction with the Chapter. The Chapter is continuing its guest speaker programs for the second year. Topics include Alaskan wildlife, exotics as pets, birds of prey, and zoo keeping as a career. Lcluaa.2. TkomaA, Sec.' y PORTLAND CHAPTER AAZK Current officers for the Portland AAZK Chapter, located at Washing- ton Park Zoo are: President Elayne Barclay Co-VP's Michael G. Illig Bret Sellers Secretary Jan McCoy Treasurer Mike Keele Chapter Liaison Michael Illig This Chapter’s biggest project is the selling of Elephant manure as ’’ZooDoo”. They sell it by the truck load and also can it for gift shop sales. They are cur- rently raising funds for the our- chase of a computer for use by the keeper staff. They have also developed a slide show which they take out to local schools illus- trating the job of a zookeeper. TOLEDO ZOO AAZK Officers for the Toledo Zoo AAZK Chapter are: President Bruce Clark Vice Pres Joanne Terry Secretary Margie Black Treasurer Michelle Grigore Chapter Liaison. . .Bruce Clark The Toledo Chapter continues to feature guest speakers at month- ly meetings. Included in past topics have been people from the following disciplines: veterinary, medical, fish/game commission, raptors (falconry), field research and zoo management. A very success ful project has been the Haunted House which the Chapter sponsors for Halloween. Funds generated from this project have been used to sponsor a $2,000 Chapter grant to fund three Toledo Zoo projects with a "conservation” theme. A T-shirt design contest was also held with the designs of the winners chosen featured on shirts sold in the gift shop. ZOO ATLANTA AAZK CHAPTER The Zoo Atlanta Chapter continues to offer two T-shirts for sale: one features their three-year-old African elephant's footprint and sells for $8.00; the other is a commemorative T-shirt featuring "Willie B.", the Zoo's male low- land gorilla who recently cele- brated his 25th anniversary. This shirt sells for $5.00. You may order either of these shirts by sending necessary size infor- mation and check payable to "Zoo Atlanta AAZK Chapter" to AAZK Treasurer, 800 Cherokee Ave. S.E., Atlanta, GA 30315. The Chapter has also been busy gather- ing materials to send to their adopted keeper in India. REMINDER REMINDER REMINDER Has your Chapter sent in its Chapter Information Sheet? Has your Chapter designated its Chapter Liaison? Please do both and let National HQ know. 51 CHAPTER NEWS, Continued SOUTH FLORIDA AAZK CHAPTER The South Florida AAZK Chapter has elected new officers for 1987. They are: President Rachel Rogers Vice Pres Susan Priess Secretary Carol Hesch Treasurer Kim Livingstone All are keepers at the Metrozoo in Miami. Rachel is a primate keeper responsible for the orang, gibbon, siamang, and black and white ruffed lemur exhibits, as well as off-exhibit primates including red-ruffed lemurs, ring-tailed lemurs and assisting the quarantine crew with primates under their care. Susan is a lead keeper in the Bird Dept. Her primary area of responsibility is in filling in for any keeper in the Bird Dept, and keep- ing up on changes as they occur in the department. Carol is a bird keeper whose primary responsibility lies in the care of the birds in the brooder hatchery building. Kim is a bird keeper whose primary area of respon- sibility is in the care of the birds in the aviary. Caring for these birds also requires a daily head count for 300 birds representing 75 species. Kdm Living Atone., Sec.', K&zpeA TllLscl Zoo , TuZacl, OK In October of 1985 an idea sprang up at a lunch table on what to do for that year’s Christmas party. Since it is customary for the keepers and docents of the Tulsa Zoo to supply some sort of entertainment at their yearly Christmas party, ideas starting bouncing from person to person. One of the entertainment participants from the party the year before suggested that since the women from the keeper and docent staff lip-synced the song "Stop In The Name Of Love", and dubbed themselves The Zoopremes, that the men partake in that year’s entertainment. With alot of coaxing, six volunteers - 4 keepers, 1 police officer, "a keeper husband" and 1 accoutant, "a docent's friend, put together a lip-sync group that grew beyond their "wildest" expectations. Many hours of practice took place before their December debut. After two or three shaky practices enough songs were gathered. The six members, with help from the original sup- porters, decided on 60 's musis, that Big Chill era that most of them had grown up with. Some of the songs selected were: "My Girl", "Runaround Sue", "Ragdoll", "Good Lovin" and "Shout". The idea was there, the songs had been picked, but they needed something more - they needed to name their lip-sync group and they needed to come up with a gimmick. Finally it came to them - let's call ourselves The Zoos Brothers and dress like the Blues Brothers, a rhythm & blues revival band that was performed by comedians Dan Akroyd and the late John Belushi. The Blues Borthers had a mission: to raise money to save an orphanage. The Zoos Brothers also have a mission: that being to promote the new Tulsa Zoo. At first promoting the Tulsa Zoo in this capacity was the furthest thing from their minds. The original idea was to perform once and only once. But their surprise, the Zoos Brothers were a hit at the Christmas party. 53 NO LION: CREATIVE MARKETING LIVES IN TULSA, Continued The Christmas party that year was held at the Knights of Columbus Lodge. Members of the lodge witnessed the performance and the audience's enthus- iastic response. The Knights asked if the Zoos Brothers would perform the following week at the lodge for their Christmas party. The six members reluctantly said yes. Since those performances, the six have performed 15 times at various clubs and other locations in Tulsa and for social func- tions at the Tulsa Zoo - always incorporating into their act an invitation to visit and support the Tulsa Zoo. After winning a local lip-sync contest, the Zoos Brothers aimed high and entered the local Puttin on the Hits contest. Competing against a hun- dred different acts, the Zoos Brothers performance was full of so much energy and enthusiasm that almost everyone in the mall where the contest was held was standing and clapping and yelling "Zoos Brothers, Zoos Brothers". That enthusiasm sailed the Brothers to first place. A few months following their contest win, the producers viewed their tap- ed performance and called and wanted the six lip-syncers in Hollywood for the nationally syndicated show. On December 20, 1986, the Zoos Brothers embarked to Hollywood, expenses paid, and performed against tough competi- tion. The outcome will be televised the week of March 30th, 1987. So check your local listings for times and dates. The Zoos Brothers claim their owe their confidence to their fellow keepers, management and docents for all their support. Their goal orginally was just to have fun. But now they recognize that they can play a positive role for the Tulsa Zoo and still do something "wild". THE ZOOS BROTHERS - Inom le&t to night: RuAty Gnlmpe, Stephen Walken, Steve TlggeA, Jack Hanna [Hononany loo 6 Bn.othen) , Raul Loudenback, Vanyl Shon.eA and Ke/iny Bannett. 9 54 CALIFORNIA CONSIDERING MOUNTAIN LION TROPHY SEASON The California Fish & Game Commission will began a series of three hear- ings this month on a proposed trophy hunting season on mountain lions. California mountain lions were protected by a legislatively mandated moritorium on trophy hunting since 1972, but this protection expired on 1 January, because Governor Duekmejian vetoed legislation in 1985 that would have continued protections for the lions. This year mountain lions were given a reprieve as enormous public opposition to the reinstitution of a lion hunting season and the political climate of an upcoming election forced the Fish & Game Commission to defer a hunting season for one year. The one-year deferral is almost over and, like the hearings held in 1986, the Fish & Game Commission will once again hear proposals from sportsmen urging a statewide hunting season on mountain lions. Attempting to capitalize on the unfortunate and tragic attacks on two children in Orange County, trophy hunting enthusiasts are trying to con- vince the public that lions are a threat to public safety and that the lion's already limited population must be further reduced by "sport" hunting. (Except for these two attacks in Orange County, there have been no other mountain lion attacks on humans in California since 1909.) Existing law and Fish and Game Commission regulations give the State's wildlife agencies sufficient authority to protect the public from wildlife attacks. In addition, for the past four years, the Department has imple- mented a depredation control program to protect the livestock industry from limited mountain lion depredation. Currently the Department, the County of Orange, and the Audubon Society are undertaking a study in the Orange County park where the two children were attacked in order to determine the cause. The mountain lion is a symbol for the few remaining wild and remote places that still exist in California. A sport hunting season will only provide a few individuals the opportunity to shoot one of California's last remain- ing wild and majestic predators according to The Mountain Lion Coalition, a environmental group opposing the proposed trophy season. The first hearing was held in Long Beach on 6 February. Two more hearings are scheduled and the Coalition urges those concerned with the mountain lion's fate in California to attend these meetings. The remaining two hearings are scheduled as follows: 6 March - Redding, CA (9:00 a.m.. City Council Chambers, 1343 West Ocean Blvd.) 3 April - Sacramento, CA (9:00 a.m., Resources Building Auditor- ium, 1416 Ninth St.) If you cannot attend the hearing, but would like the Commission to con- sider your views you can write to the Commission at: California Fish & Game Commission, 1416 9th St., Sacramento, CA 95814. For further infor- mation you may call either (213) 457-LION or (916) 442-2666. If you would like to contribute to the informational and educational work of the Mountain Lion Preservation Foundation, please send your tax-deduct- ible donation to: Lion Preservation Fund P.0. Box 1896 Sacramento, CA 95809 55 Joys of Convention Fundraising or A Weekend in Hell By Ed Havn>m, Keeper ResLd Pa/ik Zoo , Tucson, AZ Even now, as some of you plot and plan, scrimp and save, in order to attend the 13th National Conference in Milwaukee, the Tucson Chapter of AAZK dili- gently pursues every available fund-raising opportunity we can think of, to put on a memorable conference in 1988. Some of the fund-raisers are turning out to be memorable also. The Chapter has always had good luck in the past with raffles. We would solicit donated items or hand-made crafts made by chapter members, and sell chances for one dollar, always realizing a nice profit. So Gale came up with the idea of purchasing Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus dolls beautifully handcrafted by the wife of a senior keeper at Reid Park Zoo, for the pur- pose of raffling them off at the M4th Avenue Street Fair" - a pre-Christmas event attended by tens of thousands of bargain shoppers. Even as I write this, I am still trying to think of a reason to blame Gale for a good idea, one that went straight into the toilet. I can’t blame her, but I’m still trying. I should have realized immediately that good things were not going to happen for the Chapter when arrangements made for the street fair collaps- ed. The more level headed members of the Chapter suggested that we wait until next year. I said no we would pursue an alternative. They called me stubborn, with which I can’t argue. I suggested the senior citizens' "Sun Fair". Rusty and Gale were confident. The rest expressed guarded reservations, anywhere from voiced skepticism to uncontrollable laughter. As time for the Sun Fair grew near, and being faced with having to sell enough raffle tickets to pay for the dolls, the maker generously offered to buy them back. I consulted with the diehards, and we decided to go forward with the raffle. Everyone else questioned my sanity, which does tend to happen more often than not. Fittingly, on the first day of the outdoor Sun Fair, it poured rain. Every- one was quickly stuffed inside a dance hall. Rusty, whose previous life was spent as a carnival barker; Gale, who felt obligated to help in defense of her idea; George and his new wife Diane, demonstrating how quickly bore- dom invades a marriage; and Karen, who is reasonable enough to deal with anything, sold tickets on Saturday. I was to sell tickets alone on Sunday. Rusty called Saturday night with the details. I couldn’t hear a word he said over the fits of laughter coming from Gale in the background. Rusty mumbled one word over and over - old. Ah Sunday. I arrived quietly with Mr. and Mrs. Claus tucked under each arm to find our table set up in a dark corner. This, I discovered, was because Rusty kept drowning out the polka bands with his raffle spiel. It was at this time that I suddenly realized that I was the only person in a room of 500 people that was under the age of 62. My first impression of the Sun Fair was that I should have taken advantage of those CPR courses that the City offers. It didn’t take long to realize that senior citizens would rather spend their pension dollar on a crocheted toilet paper cover than a raffle. Rusty must have really twisted some calcified elbows to sell as many tickets as they did. 56 JOYS OF CONVENTION FUNDRAISING, ConUnuzd Some lady ran over my toes with a motorized wheelchair, and by 11:00 a.m. I would have traded Mr. Claus for a warm beer. Now I know Zookeepers tend to have avery graphic and descriptive conversations, but nothing compared to the gems I overheard about human bowel movements, or more precisely, the lack thereof. You would be amazed at the number of things that can go awry with the pancreas. Then, the entertainment started. You have not fully experienced life until a 200-pound, 80-year-old woman in spandex pants, with a pillow stuffed under her blouse to make her look 10 months pregnant warbles "I’m just a girl who can’t say no". By one o'clock I thought of arranging Mr. and Mrs. Claus in various positions of the Karma Sutra, just for shock value, business was slow. I sat through thirteen verses of Beer Barrel Polka, in three languages. I kept repeating to myself - for the good of the Chapter, for the good of AAZK, all the while fully realizing this was why the Winnipeg conference coordinators were pictured in the AKF cartoons wearing straight jackets. By 2:00 p.m. I was grinding my teeth so hard I was having a hard time hearing an 82-year-old man sing "New York, New York" in a falsette voice so high it would crack a glacier. By 3:00 p.m. I was grinning like an idiot and tapping my feet in time to a medley of Wayne Newton classics. People were starting to buy tickets on the basis of sympathy. By 4:00 p.m. I was comatose. I had come face to face with my future and it was severe- ly wrinkled. Twas time to go. Raffle hastily completed, I ran screaming from the room, out to my truck to discover an advertisement tucked under the wiper blade for a homemade, fruit-filled prune log. Oh boy. Stopping briefly for two quarts of beer and a small bottle of aspirin, I arrived home and spread the loot on the bed to make a quick tally of the profits, and call the Zoo to spread the good news to my co-workers. Subtracting the total cost of the dolls from the total collected, minus the $10.00 Rusty took to mail materials to our sponsored keeper in India, we made $5.00. That, plus 95 cents would buy us the Prune Log, which by 1988 would probably taste as good as it ever would . So, as you can see, the Tucson Chapter is already hard at work raising funds for the 14th National Conference. So after you make plans to attend Milwaukee this October, be sure and start thinking of Tucson in ’88. I don't think the Chapter is going to let me suggest anymore fund-raising ideas, so the conference should be better than ever. I know. . .we can do the Prune Log at the live auction.... Information Please Information needed concerning the diets given to Indian Sloth Bears [M2ZuAaJ>aJ> uSU>'LnuU> ) . Please contact: Ric Urban, Sunset Zoological Park, 11th & Poyntz, City Hall, Manhattan, KS 66502. 57 Public Education Committee THE LASAGNA THEORY OF PUBLIC EDUCATION An Introduction By Jay JaAan, Chairman AA1K. Public Education Committee More and more zoos today employ graphic artists who are responsible for the layout and production of brochures and informational signage. Many zoos, however, are not able to include a graphics department on their payroll and the task of producing interpretive signage is left to some- one else. On occasion. Keepers have pitched in and devised successful signage sys- tems for their zoos. Keepers often have a good sense of what the zoo visitor would like to know about their charges, and have ideas about what visitors should know about them. Very often, this results in a sign that contains too much information for the visitor to read, and informative signs may be completely ignored. In his book. Interpreting Our Heritage, Freeman Tilden explains that we need to "provoke rather than instruct". What he is saying is that instead of attempting to present an exhaustive amount of information about a topic or specific animal, simply present enough information to tempt the visitor into learning more. Linda Taylor, Curator of Exhibits and Displays at the San Francisco Zoo, presented an interesting approach to this problem at the 1981 Annual AAZPA Conference. The following is an excerpt from her presentation which was entitled "Gorilla Gorilla Gorilla Gorraphics". "The Lasagna Theory ofa Public Education" People consume information much like they consume food. Especially in the zoo situation, they seem more willing to make a meal of many delect- able tidbits of data, than sitting down to one heaping helping of it. Clearly too, there is a finite number of things people will participate in. They tend to spread their participation across the zoo and through- out the day. Our intention at Gorilla World was to create an invitation to nibble, in the hopes that people would lick the plate clean, looking for more. My own experience at other zoos, museums and aquariums produced the uncom- fortable feeling that sometimes graphics are designed to satisfy the collective scientific conscience of the institution’s curatorial staff, rather than the general public. What does all this have to do with lasagna? Only this: Presented with your favorite food on a saucer, you’d tend to eat it all. If I fill a small bowl of it, you'll probably still wolf it down. Now, if I fill a very large plate, you'll most likely start to pick. And if I present you with the whole casserole, chances are you're going to eat less than you would have from the saucer. Why? Because I've delivered to you more lasagna that you can possibly digest — at least without considerable discomfort. Worse yet, I may have ruined your ap- petite entirely! In terms of public education in zoos, when determining the menu and por- tions, it's essential to remember that people are visiting us primarily to enjoy a nice day outdoors, in the presence of creatures they have no access to anywhere else. They didn't come to read. They didn't come to 58 THE LASAGNA THEORY OF PUBLIC EDUCATION, Continued to be distracted from the animals. On the contrary, they want to get as close to them as possible. They want to connect somehow, which may ex- plain the public irresistable desire to feed. For educators the way to produce a sense of closeness is to turn the people on to something they didn’t already know, or help them see what’s before them with a little more insight, thereby sponsoring a new understanding of animals out of which grows respect, and YES, that wonderful sense of connection! One way of doing this is to make the informational platter so very ap- pealing, the public’s appetite for more information is sparked, but never overwhelmed. Besides limiting the portions and going easy on the vege- tables, there are other things we can do to make the plate tempting. We can add humor. Vary the language. Consider the position of the pan- els in respect to the exhibit itself. We can also vary the context of the information. At Gorilla World, sometimes you read. Sometimes you poke your head through a hole. Sometimes you use your whole body — sometimes, just your hand. Basically, our goal was to surprise the pub- lic every chance we could. At the same time, it was important to remem- ber that surprise and confusion are often first cousins. In an effort not to lose the connective tissue between each graphic, we made them all relatively the same size, with the same typefaces and compatable palates of color, which helped achieve visual continuity. Just as important was a continuity of mood. We all agreed that the best graphics seemed to have literally floated onto the panels, with no sign of struggle. Even though we behind the scenes know that good graphics often take months of hard labor, they should look like they were conceived in one night on flawlessly- ironed bedsheets, and borne without the slight- est shriek. PostScript to "The Lasagne Theory ol Publtc Education" If this article has provoked you into wanting to learn more about signage and public education, the following are a few books that would be a good start . Interpreting Our Heritage. Tilden, Freeman. University of North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill, NC. 1977. Making Exhibit Labels. Serell, Beverly, American Association of State and Local History, Nashville, TN. 1983. The Interpreter’s Handbook. Grater, R.K. Southwest Parks and Monuments Association. 1976. Interpreting the Environment. Sharpe, G.W. , John Wiley and Sons, New York. 1976. Interpreting for Park Visitors. Lewis, William J., Eastern National Park and Monument Association, Independence Agency, Philadelphia, PA. 1981. 59 SURVIVAL OF HAND-RAISED HOOFSTOCK By KanZa J. HickeZAon, S2.vu.0n. Keeper Infant Isolation UvUX San VZego WZtd AvumaZ VaJik San V-L2.QO, CA Hand-raising exotic hoof stock can be an exciting and rewarding experience, especially when the youngsters raised produce their own offspring someday. But what happens to those that aren’t so lucky? Introduction of hand-raised animals into a large field exhibit at an early age has become a growing concern. This is a problem unique to zoos and institutions with large enclosures that house several different species of animals. Recent studies done at the San Diego Wild Animal Park concerning the survival of hand-raised neonates upon release in a field-type enclosure showed that the following elements are directly involved and should be eval uated in juvenile field releases. 1) Age/size 2) Species involved in release 3) Exhibit stressors Statistics gathered on 62 juvenile hoofstock, hand-raised between 1981 and 1986 at the Wild Animal Park’s Infant Isolation Unit, demonstrate the sig- nificance of these factors. The most relevant calculations revealed that the age at time of release was directly related to that animal’s chance of survival in the exhibit. Facts revealed that those neonates released under four months of age had only a 1 in 3 chance of survival*, or a 66% mortality rate. The data also showed that the chance of survival dramatically increases nearly 100% when releas- ed after four months of age, with most individuals surviving several years after that initial first year in the exhibit. The conclusion drawn from these facts substantiates that the development of the neonate after that critical age of four months allows it the chance to overcome many stressors present in its new environment. Further information showed that some species of hoofstock faired better than others when released earlier than four months of age. Of two cervidae nine antilopinae released before four months of age less than 50% survived, whereas of eight juvenile captinae and saiginae released less than four months old, only 12% survived. Also noted when raising a variety of spec- ies, each had a unique temperament that dictated its dependency or psycho- logical attachment due in part to the human bond formed in hand-rearing situations. This can create adjustment problems for the neonate upon re- lease into an exhibit where minimal human interaction ensues. Each species handles this factor in different ways. In general, some species such as the saiga antelope, sitatunga, and addra gazelle become aloof and indifferent shortly after weaning when human con- tact has become minimal. This allows for a shorter adjustment period upon release. ^Survival is defined as those surviving one year of age or more. 60 SURVIVAL OF HAND-RAISED HOOFSTOCK, Continued Species such as Thomson's gazelle, slender-horned gazelle, and muntjac remain friendly and affable with humans often up to a year or longer after they are weaned which sometimes slows down their adaptation to the exhibit. Last, exhibit stressors play a large part in a young animal's chance of survival. Stressors in field enclosures include pressure and harassment from other exhibit members, and possibly competition with other herd mem- bers. The most common cause of mortality in our experience being haras- sment that results in trauma to the neonate. Another problem in field introductions creating stress is herd acceptance. It is important for the juvenile to join the herd as soon as possible, for the herd offers a certain degree of protection to its young members. Therefore, the ultimate goal in an exhibit introduction is for the young animal to bond with its own species to become a viable herd member. Some- times for the hand-raised neonate, certain difficulties can arise. Typ- ically, a species such as an ellipsen waterbuck has been raised together with other unrelated species, such as sika deer which is often the case in zoo nurseries. The ideal situation is for the neonate to be raised with individuals from a similar family which will hasten recognition of its own kind once released. If this cannot be done, the juvenile's rate of herd recognition may be retarded. Reduction, in part, of any of the aforementioned stress factors greatly increased the neonate's chance of survival . In conclusion, we believe that to increase the hand-raised neonate's chance of successful reintroduction to large, mixed-species exhibits like those at the Wild Animal Park, two basic principles should be employed: 1) sufficient time for the animal to gain the maturity needed to better handle the many exhibit stressors when they are eventually released back into their respective exhibits, and 2) have an intermediate area in which to house the juvenile upon weaning where it will receive minimal human contact thus permitting some reduction in its psychological dependence. Attention to these two areas should result in increases in the survival rate of hand-raised neonate hoofstock. 61 on the brink c ' EXTINCTIOI Everyone receiving this news- letter is aware of the crisis facing the wild rhinos. In Kenya alone, wild populations have dropped from 20,000 black v rhinos in 1970 to about 350 today. Only about half of these are on sanctuaries. One such sanctuary is Ngare Sergoi at Lewa Downs, where Englishwoman Anna Merz, using her own funds, has fenced and staffed a 5,500-acre preserve for 12 black rhinos. Since the beginning of Ngare Sergoi in 1983, five babies have been born and poachers have been repulsed near the fenceline. This has been accomplished with no government support and little other outside assistance. However, the sanctuary is nearing its carrying capacity, and Anna’s personal funds are nearly exhausted. In the spring of 1986, Columbus Zoo pachyderm keeper Andy Lodge spent six weeks at Ngare Sergoi, working with Anna and conducting a field study of the rhinos. Since his return, with the backing of the Columbus AAZK Chap- ter, Andy has been telling Anna’s story and attempting to raise money to help keep her program going. Armed with slide shows and his first-hand experiences on the preserve, Andy has given talks at several zoos in the United States and Canada and for local groups. There is no speaker's fee. The focus of the talk is on the plight of the wild rhino, the causes of the problem, what must be done, and the work being carried on by Anna at Ngare Sergoi. Andy is constantly in touch with Anna and provides updates on conditions at the preserve. For more information about Ngare Sergoi or having Andy give a talk at your zoo, call Andy Lodge at the Columbus Zoo: (614) 766-3400. Contributions to Anna Merz can be made by sending a check (payable to Columbus Chapter AASK) to: Rhino Fund, c/o AAZK, Columbus Zoo, Box 400, Powell, OH 43065-0400. The rhino has existed for nearly 60 million years and included some 170 species. Today, there are only five species remaining worldwide, includ- ing the Indian (about 1700), the Javan (about 65), the Sumatran (about 500), the southern white (about 3,000), northern white (about 18), and the black (about 3,000). The rhino was chosen as the symbol of the AAZK in 1967 because it represented strength, persistance, determination, and presented a defined image of survival. Can we afford to let extinction be its ultimate fate? 62 THERE’S NOTHING IN THIS CAGE! Lemming Activity By Tdd Vadmke, Animal KdcpeA (Masking ton Tank Zoo, Portland, OP Observers of Washington Park Zoo’s lemming exhibit were not always able to locate any lemmings. In an attempt to rectify this situation, the decision was made to determine what activity patterns existed and what variables influenced activity. This information could then be used to predict or modify lemming activity in the exhibit. Batzli, White, MacLean, Pitelka and Collier (1980) reported that Brown Lemmings reach maximal hunger at two hours and an empty gut at three hours. Kock (1964) reports periods of extensive activity in late morn- ing and later af ternoon/evening for captive lemmings. These reports are not necessarily in conflict. Quick trips to the food bowl every couple of hours might go unnoticed while longer periods of activity involving foraging of exhibit plants, social interaction or sunning would be more obvious. The longer periods of activity would be more significant in an exhibit situation. The present project was undertaken to provide quantitative data on lem- ming activity patterns. By recording lemming activity levels and values of temperature, weather, and time of day, any correlation between activ- ity and these variables could be demonstrated. It was expected that the lemmings would avoid wet weather because their fur is not waterproof (Batzli et al . , 1980) and that activity would cluster around particular times of the day as observed by Kock (1964). Beyond this no predictions were made concerning what conditions might lead to an increase or decrease in lemming activity. METHOD Subjects One Brown Lemming ( Lemmas Viimu.cA.0 ncitiLS ) overwintered in the outdoor ex- hibit and was the subject of the first series of observations. The second series of observations involved a pair of Brown Lemmings which may have included the original subject. Apparatus i The exhibit measures 4.6m x 6m with an additional 1.2m x 3m occupied by | a concrete stairwell at the back. It is enclosed by wire mesh on top, ! back and left side. The front is glass and the right wall is concrete. The ground slopes from back to front with terracing creating about 20% level ground. The lemmings made no use of the stairwell and 95% of the rest of the exhibit was visible from the observer's position. During 1 the first series of observations the ground was covered by dead plant material which sometimes made locating the lemming difficult. Between the two series of observations the exhibit was raked and the plant mater- ial present during the second series of observations did not obscure | view of the lemmings. | I 63 THERE'S NOTHING IN THIS CAGE!11 - Lemming Activity, Continued Procedure Observations - Between 5 February 1986 and 26 February 1986, 45 hours of observations were recorded in blocks of 1 to 3 hours. Between 23 April 1986 and 22 May 1986, 39 hours of observations were made in three- hour blocks. Observations were evenly distributed between 0800 hours and 1700 hours Pacific Standard Time. At 5-minute intervals the exhibit was scanned and observations recorded. Temperature was recorded at 30-minute intervals . Variables - In the first series of observations the lemming was record- ed as active if visible above ground and not active if not visable. Time of day, temperature and weather were recorded. Weather was classed as sunny, cloudy or raining. Any condition which placed the exhibit in shade was classed as cloudy. RESULTS Of the first series of observations the lemming was active 20.3% of the time. Separating the observations into the three weather classes provid- ed the information that the lemming was active 28.8% of the time when it was sunny, 17.1% of the time when it was cloudy and 1.7% of the time if it was raining. Of the second series of observations, one or both lem- mings were sighted 66% of the time. A single lemming was sighted 40% of the time and both lemmings were sighted 19% of the time. The number of lemming sightings was 42% of the maximum possible. Sightings during sunny conditions were 43% possible, 42% of possible during cloudy conditions and 40% of possible in the rain. Each series of observations was sorted by temperature. The number of ob- servations in each temperature class was multiplied by the appropriate activity level (.203 for first series classes and .42 for second series classes) to yield an expected number of sightings. The number of sightings in each temperature class was divided by the expected number of sightings to produce a percentage of expected. First series percentages ranged from 0 to 400 and second series percentages ranged from 74 to 138. In both cases no pattern was evident. (See Figure 1) Observations were also sorted by time of day into one-hour intervals. A percentage of expected was again calculated. First series results ranged from 30% to 220% with no apparent pattern. Second series results ranged from 81% to 125%. A peak in activity appeared to exist between 1000 hours and 1300 hours with a second peak beginning at 1600 hours. (See Figure 2) DISCUSSION Activity in the second series of observations was more than twice as com- mon as it had been in the first series. A number of inaccuracies could have been attributed to this difference. Dead plant material was clear- ed from the exhibit between the two series of observations. Poor visa- bility might have depressed the number of sightings in the first series. A second factor that might have affected accuracy is reproductive activ- ity. Halfway through the second series of observations a litter of three lemmings started appearing above ground. There was no chance of mistak- ing them for the adults and they are not counted in the sightings, but activity by the adults due to breeding and then raising the young may have distorted the results. A third factor leading to inaccuracy is simply sample size. Only one lemming was represented in the first series of observations and only two in the second series. A sample this small has a hard time disregarding individual variation. In spite of these 64 % of Expected THERE’S NOTHING IN THIS CAGE!11 - Lemming Activity, Continued FIGURE 1 Temperature (Celcius) 65 % of Expected THERE'S NOTHING IN THIS CAGEl" - Lemming Activity, Continued FIGURE 2 20 8-9 9-10 10-11 11-12 12-1 1-2 2-3 3-^ 4-5 Time of Day 66 'THERE'S NOTHING IN THIS CAGE" - Lemming Activity, Continued problems, the difference between the two series is large enough to sug- gest a seasonal variation in activity levels. A seasonal variation is also suggested by the casual observation that activity seems to have de- creased significantly again in early October 1986. There was a remarkable difference in the lemmings' reaction to rain in the two series. In February rain was almost completely avoided, but in May activity was evenly distributed through all types of weather. Tem- perature might be a big factor in the lemmings' reaction to rain. At the cold temperatures predominant in February, wet fur would be a serious energy loss and health risk. At the higher May temperatures wet fur may not be as important . Temperature did not seem to be a factor influencing activity within a series, but may explain the higher level of activity in the second series First series temperatures ranged from -2°C to 11°C. Second series tem- peratures ranged from 7°C to 15°C. At the lower temperatures the lemming may be keeping activity to a minimum, balancing energy gain from foraging against energy loss from exposure to surface conditions. The first series daily activity pattern did not conform to the pattern observed by Kock (1964), but second series observations did. Tempera- ture gains may have accounted for the differences. At low temperatures the lemmings' activity may conform to Batzli 's (1980) observations. Ac- tivity would result only under the pressure of hunger and would be evenly spaced throughout the day. At higher and presumably more comfortable temperatures the lemmings could engage in more discretionary activity. This additional activity seems to conform closely to the pattern observed by Kock (1964). The results indicate that a) 1000 hours to 1300 hours PST is the best time for viewing lemmings and b) rain protection might increase winter activity. Two litters of 3 and 2 lemmings led to a population of 7 and excellent viewing this summer. We hope the new clear roof will make lemming viewing a year-round activity. REFERENCES Batzli, G.O., White, R.G., MacLean, Jr., S.F., Pitelka, F.A. , & Collier, B.D. (1980). The herbivore-based trophic system. In J. Brown, P.C. Miller, L.L. Tieszen, & F.L. Bunnel (Eds.), An arctic ecosystem (pp. 354). Stroudsburg, PA: Dowden, Hutchinson & Ross. Batzli, G.O. , White, R.G., MacLean, Jr., S.F. . , Pitelka, F.A., & Collier, B.D. (1980). The herbivore-based trophic system. In J. Brown, P.C. Miller, L.L. Tieszen, & F.L. Bunnell (Eds.), An arctic ecosystem (pp. 371). Stroudsburg, PA: Dowden, Hutchinson & Ross. Kock, L.L. (1966). Breeding Lemmings for exhibition. In C. Jarvis & R. Biegler (Eds.), The International Zoo Yearbook (Vol. 6, pp. 164- 165). London: The Zoological Society of London. 67 Institutions wishing to advent!* e employment oppontunltles one asked to tend pentlnent data by the 15th oi each month to: Oppontunlty Knocks/ AKE , 635 Gage. Blvd. , Topeka, KS 66606. Please Include. c.lo*lng dates ion. posi- tion* available.. Thene 1* no change, ion this senvlce and phonc-ln list- ings oi positions which become available close to deadline one accepted. ZOOKEEPER. . .ambitious person needed to handle diverse exotic small ani- mal collection. Avian and/or herpetological expertise emphasized. Re- quires associate degree in Animal Science, BS degree in biology or relat- ed field preferred. One year paid zoo experience desired. Salary $10,000- $11,000 plus benefits. Send resume by 20 March 1987 to: Laura Trechsel, General Curator, Folsom Children's Zoo, 2800 A Street, Lincoln, NE 68502 EOE. ANIMAL KEEPER/MAMMAL VEPT. . . at Baltimore Zoo. Salary $13,314. Each can- didate must have graduated from an accredited high school and have one year paid experience in the care and handling of a variety of mammals, excluding pets; or have graduated from an accredited high school and have 6 months experience in the care and handl- ing of animals in a zoological institution; or have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in biology, zoology, animal science or veterinary technology. Eligibility for a driver's license is required. This is an entry level position under the direct supervision of a Senior Keeper and/or Curator. All resumes to be sent to Sandra Kempske, Curator of Mammals, Baltimore Zoo, Druid Hill Park, Baltimore, MD 21217. Deadline for acceptance of applications is 28 February 1987. ELEPHANT HANVLER. .. experience with elephants required. Will participate in management husbandry and breeding programs for both Asian and African elephants. Will also be involved in elephant training demonstrations and elephant rides. Send resume and references by 1 April 1987 to: Charlie Gray, African Lion Safari, R.R. 1, Cambridge, Ont., Canada N1R 5S2. KEEPER/SC Z BREEDING FARM. . .requires some zoo experience or related work experience. A farm background preferred. Will assist in the maintenance and care of approximately 100 mammals and birds. Salary: $6. 31 /hr, plus benefits. Submit resume by 1 March 1987 to: Mark Reed, Assistant Director, Sedgwick County Zoo & Botanical Garden, 5555 Zoo Blvd., Wichita, KS 67212. ANIMAL TRAINER. .. responsible for continuation and further development of training and demonstration program for sea lions, birds of prey, and other species. Will participate in the care and maintenance of training animals and exhibit areas. Requires a minimum of associate's degree in related field and two years' experience in animal behavior training. Strong communications and public presentation skills a must. Salary $15,500- $18,000 plus benefits. Submit resume to: Personnel, Philadelphia Zoo, 34th St. and Girard Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19104. SUMMER EDUCATION INTERNSHIPS. . .available in the areas of art, science, and outdoor education. Instructors will work under the direction of the zoo education department staff in planning, conducting and evaluating zoo day camp sessions for age groups from pre-school through 5th grade. Two years of college work in elementary education or environmental interpreta- tion or applicable experience preferred. Salary is $150.00 per week for the 10-week internship beginning 22 June and ending 28 August 1987. Send resume and letter of intent to: Jay Jasan, Assistant Director of Education, Staten Island Zoo, 614 Broadway, Staten Island, NY 10310 by 15 April 1987. a o P k o II P r t u n • i t y o c k 68 AAZK MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION Name Check here if renewal [ ] Address $25.00 Professional $20.00 Affiliate Fu. tt-time. keepeAA OtkeA I ta.fi fi and votunte.eJiA $25.00 International $15.00 Associate A tt membeAA outbade, the. IndividuatA not conne.cted U.S. and Canada with an antimat caste. fi aeiLuti / $15.00 Library $50.00 Contributing Libnasty AubAcniption only OnganizationA and JndividuatA Directory Information: zoo Work Area Special Interests Mail this application and check or money order (U.S. CURRENCY ONLY PLEASE), payable to American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc., to: AAZK National Headquarters, Topeka Zoo, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606. Membership includes a subscription to Animat KccpeStA1 Folium. The member- ship card is good for free admission to many zoos and aquariums in the U.S. and Canada . INFORMATION FOR CONTRIBUTORS Animat KeepeAA ' Fosum publishes original papers and news items of inter- est to the Animal Keeping profession. Non-members are welcome to submit articles for consideration. Articles should be typed or hand-printed. All illustrations, graphs and tables should be clearly marked, in final form, and should fit in a page size no more than 6M x 10" (15cm x 25^cm) . Literature used should be cited in the text and in final bibliography. Avoid footnotes. Include scientific names. Black and white photos only accepted. Articles sent to Animat KeepeAA1 Folium will be reviewed for publication. No commitment is made to the author, but an effort will be made to pub- lish articles as soon as possible. Those longer than three pages may be separated into monthly installments at the discretion of the editorial staff. The editors reserve the right to edit material without consulta- tion unless approval is requested in writing by the author. Materials submitted will not be returned unless accompanied by a stamped, self- addressed envelope. Telephone contributions on late-breaking news or last-minute insertions are accepted. However, phone-in contributions of long articles will not be accepted. The phone number is (913) 272-5821) DEADLINE FOR EACH EDITION IS THE 15TH OF THE PRECEDING MONTH AnticteA pninted do not neceA AaniZy sie.fite.ct the opinio nA ofi the. Animat KeepeAA * Foalm editoniat Atafifi on. the American AAAociation ofi loo KeepeAA. Items in this publication may be reprinted providing credit to this pub- lication is given. Reprints may be ordered from the editor. PRINTED IN U.S. A. *co £- C/) on Wc§ ^ ON 5T Sag ON *0 0) MARCH 1987 Animal Keepers' Forum to Professional Animal Care ANIMAL KEEPERS1 FORUM, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606. Executive Editor: Alice Miser MARCH 1987 Managing Editor: Susan Chan VOLUME FOURTEEN Associate Editor: Ron Ringer NUMBER THREE Animal Keepens’ Eonum (ISSN 0164-9531) is a monthly journal of the American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc., 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606. Five dollars of each membership fee goes toward the annual pub- lication costs of Animal Keepens' Eonum. Second Class postage paid at Topeka, KS. Postmaster: Please send address changes to: AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF ZOO KEEPERS , INC. NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS, 635 GAGE BLDD . , TOPEKA, KS 66606 Banbana Manspeaken, Admlnlstnatlv e Secnetany BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jean Hromadka, San Diego Wild Animal Park Pnesldent Escondido, CA 92025 Frank B. Kohn, National Zoological Park 1 /Ice Pnesldent Washington, DC 20008 Oliver Claffey, Metro Toronto Zoo, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Susan M. Barnard, Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30315 Kerry Hoffman, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Tucson, AZ 85743 COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS/PROJECT HEADS Conference Book Committee Continuing Keeper Education Phil Pmnock, Woodland Pank pout Sammanco, Lincoln Pank Zoo Awards Committee Rachel Rogens, Miami Metnozoo Research/Grants Committee Enank Kohn/Kacl Thompson, NIP Book Review Coordinator Kathy Suchanltakul, Aknon Zoo Legislative Action Committee Becky Rogens, Topeka Zoo International Affairs Co-Coordinators and Pam McDoug all, Calgany Zoo [west) Staff Exchange Elandna A urn, Woodland Pank Zoo Program Library Vebble Jackson, Little Rock Zoo Exhibit Design Form Diane Eonsyth, Aknon Zoo Keeper Accommodations List Qllven Clayey, Metno Toronto Zoo Public Education Committee Jay Jos an, Staten Inland Zoo AAZK History Committee A At Goodrich, San Diego Zoo - Melba Shields, National Zoo [east] Animal Data Transfer Forms Bennie Eeldman, Bunnet Rank Zoo Membership Directory Pat Sammanco, Lincoln Pank Zoo Diet Notebook Suusan Bunn, Minnesota Zoo Biological Values/Gestation Gneaten San Enanclsco Bay A nea Chapter Keeper Training Videotapes Library Resources Wayne Buchanan, Woodland Pank Zoo Kacl Thompson, NZP Keeper Training Materials Identification Infant Development Notebook Ro^many Jallnk, MM Mountain Zoo Steven Wing, Milwaukee Zoo Reference Search Nominations & Elections Liz McLaughlin, Rogen Wlltlxm 6 Pank Janet McCoy, Washington Pank Zoo Zoo, Jenny Renttfnow, Mason, MI CO-DIRECTORS REGIONAL COORDINATORS States East of the Mississippi - Diane Knug, White Oak Plantation, Vulee, EL States West of the Mississippi - Debbena Stechen, Woodland Pank Zoo, Seattle, Individual Regional Coondlnatons and the states unden. theln ovenslght one listed etseiwhene In each Istue o& Animal Keepens ’ Eonum. Thu month,'* coven & the SutphuA Cnuted Cockatoo ( Cacatua galenita) , a memben oA the Amity ?*tttactdae native to Wew) Guinea, Indonesia, Nonth- enn Ku*tnatia, and nou) Oregon. Thu coven, u a AaAmeVL dedication to Valkynle Ripen Kimball, Aonmen I /etenlnaAy Techntctan and AAZ K Ckapten V nut- dent at the Topeka Zoo . Ripen, hen. cockatoo and hen. cat one neiocatlng to {jJlldltAe SaAant In (nJln*ton, OR ivhene *he will continue hen caneen a* a vet tech. Congnatulation* and but wuhu A /LOm HouA Amdiy tn Topeka. Vou wilt be mu*ed. --- The Keepeu, the A Kf *taAA ) . The animal holding areas were basically closed in 1985. (***) The actual zoological park for the region is the one in Sapucaia do Sul with a mailing address of Sao Leopoldo. The city of Porto Alegre has a well kept mini-zoo in a downtown park which is probably the zoo referenced as being in Porto Alefre. Extreme confusion may arise because even today those that refer to the zoo in Porto Alegre usually are speaking about the one in Sapucaia do Sul (Sao Leopoldo). $ Information Please Felid Research and Conservation Interest Group - I would like to organize an interest group whose purpose would be to share information from con- ferences, symposia, and ongoing research among all individuals interested in felid research and conservation. Additional activities could be the generation of a felid and f elid-related bibliography, a periodic litera- ture update, the generation of a quarterly newsletter, and a directory of interested individuals. If you have a sincere interest in participat- ing in such a group, please send a self-addredded , stamped envelope to: Gail E. Foreman, Dept, of Zoology, OSU, 1735 Neil Ave., Columbus, OH 43210. I am interested in gathering information on the hand-rearing of psitta- cine chicks. Specifically, I would like to know what type of enclosure the chicks are kept in (incubator, cardboard box with heating pad, etc.), and what type of materials are best for cleanliness, absorbancy and com- fort to the chicks. Also, at what age are the chicks fully weaned? Please send all replies to: Marcelle Guidry, Greater Baton Rouge Zoo, P.0. Box 60, Baker, LA 70704-0060. Phone (504) 388-9392 (night). I would like personal comments and information related to asphalt yards for hoof stock and farm exhibits. Responses on health problems and bene- fits, husbandry, esthetic values, education and visitor enjoyment, will be greatly appreciated. Send to: Kit Niemann, P.0. Box 116, Olalla, WA 98359. 84 THINK Safety! FOOD PREPARATION/STORAGE HAZARDS EXAMINED M&ukcL Ci.bon.ok THINK Safety ! Coofidinaton. AkJiovi 1 ootogicai Tajik, A kfion, OH On 12 and 13 December, I attended the Sixth Annual Dr. Scholl Conference on the Nutrition of Captive Wild Animals, held at Lincoln Park Zoological Gardens. This conference focused on the keeepr's role in zoo nutrition. While all the presentations were extremely informative for those attend- ind, I found two to be highly pertinent to animal and keeper safety. "Hazards Associated With Food Preparation and Storage," presented by Laura Jane Stuart, suggested that animals do suffer from food poisoning caused by food infections and food intoxications. Food infections are caused by the ingestion of bacteria such as Saimo noJLta. , SkigoZta., E. coli, Sto.ptoc.oc.ciu> , 8. COAOJJU, and CwnpylobcictOA jCjimi. Symptoms may include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and low grade fever. Some of these bacteria can be transmitted from man to animals, and back again to man. Food in- toxications are caused by the ingestion of toxins produced by bacteria, molds, plants and insects. While food intoxications are less frequent than food infections, the results can often be fatal. Food intoxications are caused by the toxins produced by CtoAtAidium botatinum, StapkytococciU ciuOJwJs and CioAtnidiim poA&ning cvu . Symptoms range from severe gastro- enteritis, to paralysis and death. Ms. Stuart stated that food infections and intoxications can be prevented by promoting proper food storage, such as the quick refrigeration of cooked foods with as little handling as possible. Also, mice, roaches, ants, etc. should be eliminated from com- missaries and other food prep areas. Food should be kept in containers with lids, and meats should be kept at 40°F. Thawing of meats should occur under refrigeration. Robert Aherin spoke on the "Human Health Hazards Associated With Feed Handling." The breathing of feed dust and plant material which is moldy can cause problems for keepers who regularly work with hay, silage, and grain. The breathing of feed dust can lead to the development of scar tissue in the lungs and to bronchitis. More problems in molding of hay occur than in molding of grain. Bacteria and fungi produce toxins which can cause the problems discussed previously. The breathing in of moldy plant material can cause "farmer's lung" and "grain fever" or "toxin or- ganic dust syndrome." Farmer's lung is an allergic reaction to bacteria in the body. The reaction may become more severe with repeated exposures. This may cause lung damage with restricted breathing. Grain fever occurs one or two days after exposure to moldy grain, and causes irritation of the lung linings. Mr. Aherin encourages respiratory protection through the use of a dust respirator, which blocks fine dust from entering the lungs. AAZK Chapters: Keep watching for the opportunity to be project head for an exciting THINK Safety! key chain being designed by Eric Krussman from Wilmington, DE. Details in a later issue. Any animal or keeper safety information or ideas can be sent to me, Marsha Ciborek, at the Akron Zoological Park, 500 Edgewood Ave., Akron, OH 44307. Zooquest® Order Form 785 Buckingham Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3R 1C3 Name Address City Telephone Province/State Postal Code/Zip Code Please rush me Zooquest® game(s). I am enclosing Cheque □ Cash □ Money Order □ for games x $39.95 Can./$28.95 US. = ; quantity U.S. residents, please include $4.00 U.S. shipping & handling. Please allow 4 - 6 weeks Canadian residents, please include $2.50 Canadian shipping & handling. for delivery. €©NIFIEEIBM€1 W MILWAUKEE, WH Conference Photo Album Remember Winnipeg, or Miami, or Seattle, or... Oh, go get your photo album, I'll wait. "There's Joe in front of the lion exhibit. And the Phi 1 ly gang at the icebreaker. Jackie sure gave a good presentation, wouldn't have guessed she was scared. Here's one from the post-conference trip to Churchill.. I was impressed!" Share those memories. The 1986 National AAZK conference in Winnipeg saw the introduction of the Conference Photo Album. A collection of photographs from previous national and regional conferences, submitted by attendees from all over North America, the Album will travel from conference to conference. These photographs are people-oriented and include shots of the icebreakers, zoo tours, hospitality room or banquets, among others. Please make a note to submit your photos along with your registration. Photos will not be returned. 31" x 5" preferred. Send photos to: CoMeAmae. ’ S7 Photo -6, Mttivaukee. County Zoo , 10001 W. Blumound Road., Jl IcCboaukee., WI 53226. Help keep the conference alive with pictures. 19 8 7 Crossword Clues For March Hope you photocopied your crossword puzzle out of last month's AKF so you're ready to fill in this month's blanks. Here are the clues for March. Remember you can win extra chances to be awarded two nights free lodging at the conference site, Sheraton Mayfair, by completing the puzzle correctly. Here goes... ACROSS: 13. Conference '87 city. DOWN: 14. 1986 National conference city. 21. Snapshots must be brought for the conference album. 22. Animal used on the AAZK-Milwaukee Chapter logo. 1987 AAZK NATIONAL CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FORM October 4-8, 1987 - Milwaukee, WI Please type or print. (One name per form) Name Address C i ty ' Zip Code Zoo Affiliation Area of Interest AAZK Committee Member? Will be submitting a paper: Yes No ($20.00 will be refunded from registration fee on acceptance of paper) Participating in Zoolympics: Yes No Bringing an auction item: Yes No Describe briefly Vegetarian: Yes No (Specify type ) Banquet Entree: (check one) Beef Chicken Vegetarian _ Are you interested in a Conference T-Shirt: Yes No (S M L XL) AAZK Membership Status and Fees: Member/Spouse $55.00 each Non-member $70.00 each Late Fee $10.00 (After August 15, 1987) Total Fees Enclosed $ One-Day rates for individual conference events are available. Contact Steven M. Wing for details. Arrival date and time . Let us know ASAP if you need pick-up assistance. Please make payment to: AAZK-Mil waukee Chapter. Return this form with your fee to: Conference '87, Milwaukee County Zoo, 10001 W. Bluemound Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226. State/Prov. Telephone #{ ) HOTEL RESERVATION REQUEST 1987 AAZK National Conference October 4-8, 1987 Name Address C i ty State/Prov.' Zip Code Telephone #{ )_ Date of Arrival Date of Departure_ Guaranteed by: Credit Card Check Credit Card Card # Expiration Date Rooms will be held only until 6:00 p.m. unless guaranteed by either credit card or one night's deposit. Dbl ./Dbl . King 1 Person $50.00 $50.00 2 Persons _$50.00 $50.00 I will be sharing a room with We will be able to match-up single delegates with roommates. Do you need a roommate: Yes NO If Yes, state restrictions (i.e. male/female, nonsmoker, etc.) We will make every effort to match roommates, but we cannot guarantee it. Return this form to: Conference '87 Milwaukee County Zoo 10001 W. Bluemound Road Milwaukee, WI 53226 Pre-Conference Tour Sunday, 4 October, will be the date for the pre- conference tour to Henry Vilas Zoo, Madison, and the International Crane Foundation, Baraboo, WI. Bus transportation and lunch will be provided for a small fee. Watch for details in the Forum . Post-Conference Tour Announcing the 1987 AAZK National Post-Conference Tour to Chiacgo, IL - home to the Brookfield and Lincoln Park Zoos and the Shedd Aquarium. The tour will be a two-day trip and will include all three institutions. Busses will depart Milwaukee on Friday, 9 October and return Saturday, 10 October. Overnight lodging will be included in the fee. Details will be forthcoming in a future issue of the Forum. AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF ZOOKEEPERS MILWAUKEE 1987 THE CHALLENGE IS STILL ALIVE ZOOQUEST* The maintenance of wild animals in captivity or zookeeping is a pro- fession based on knowledge, experience and common sense. It re- quires patience, dedication and a love and respect for the wildlife of the world. ZOOQUEST takes place in a zoo; each player is a zookeeper. It is a game of adventure, knowledge, and chance. A number of aspects of game-playing are involved - strategy, intellect and luck. As well, a unique feature of ZOOQUEST is its function as a learn- ing resource. Questions and answers about many of the world’s animals provides the player an opportunity to learn about wildlife and stimulates one’s interest and concern for animal life in general. The playing board is a map of a zoo divided into four geographical areas: The Americas, the African Range, the Eurasian Pavilion, and the Australasian Exhibit. Each zoo area has seven threaten- ed or endangered animals representing wildlife of that part of the world. The object of ZOOQUEST is to collect six of the endangered animals. As the player progresses through the various zoo areas with the use of a die, zookeeping tools such as shovels, rakes and capture nets may be collected and used, animal-related situations or scenarios challenge the player to use strategy or make choices, and animal knowledge may be required or helpful. Endorsed by the American Association of Zookeepers. A Preliminary Analysis of Space Use, Body Orientation and Tail Use in Captive Ringtail Possums (PAeudocketAuA peAzg/UmA ) By fsiank B . Kohn Ve.pt. oi ZoologtoaZ PeAmAch NattonaZ ZoologtoaZ Pcuik, (JilaA king ton, V.C. Historically, marsupials have been rarely displayed in zoos. Although the larger macropods are popular among the public, their frequency of display may be attrubuted to their diurnal activity and social habits and thus the ease with which zoos can exhibit them. The vast majority of marsupials however, have been ignored for exhibition because a large percentage of them are small, nocturnal and solitary and therefore less visible and less popular with the viewing publ ic. The difficulty in designing an active, dynamic exhibit popular with the public could be a primary reason many zoos balk at exhibiting the lesser known marsupials. In addition, the lack of many nocturnal displays could reflect the reluctance of zoos to display nocturnal mammals. In Australia much research on marsupials in the field and in captivity is shared and facilitates their exhibition in Australian zoos (Evans, 1979), but North American Zoos lag behind in the display of animals relatively unknown yet fascinating to the public. The ringtail possum Pseudocheirus peregrinus , is an arboreal marsupial common throughout all of eastern Australia, Tasmania and Southwestern Australia in forest and urban areas (Tate, 1945;Thomson & Owen, 1964; Smith & Hume, 1984). They are like many small marsupials, nocturnal and solitary. Their population biology and food habits have been documented (Presidente, 1979), but many aspects of their behavior have not been described in detail. The National Zoological Park first obtained 2.2 Pseudocheirus peregrinus from the wild in 1982 and currently houses twenty-three ringtail possums as part of studies on its management and husbandry, reproductive energetics and life history. Our breeding success has suggested their adaptability to captivity and therefore their potential for zoo exhibition. Knowing how hard it is to successfully exhibit small groups of nocturnal mammals, I decided to observe ringtail possums to learn about and quantify their activity and habitat use. By doing this under off-display conditions, I could collect information which might facilitate construction of an exhibit that would maximize activity and therefore visibility. I hoped that this project would prove informative to zoos interested in expanding their collection and acquiring ringtail possums as an active exhibit animal and part of a nocturnal, small mammal display . The purpose of this study was to conduct a preliminary analysis of the ringtail possum's use of space and substrates, identify areas of focal attention and activity. 88 CAPTIVE RINGTAIL POSSUM STUDY, CowUnuzd and to provide information relevant to exhibit design. Data were also collected on activity periods, body orientation and the use of the prehensile tail. The results provide preliminary data on substrate use and an understanding of the species's environmental requirements. METHODS Four animals (3.1) ranging from one to three years old were used as subjects (Table 1). Two of the males were father and son and were housed together. The female observed was housed with two offspring, however these two young animals were not included in this study. The third male was housed with a sibling who was not observed. These animals were housed in wire mesh cages supported by wooden framework measuring 6 1/2 feet high x 12 feet long by 5 1/2 feet wide. Each animal had access to a nest box measuring 12" x 7" x 7" partially filled with soft paper strips and burlap for nesting material. One box was provided for every two animals. The cages were located at the National Zoological Park's Department of Zoological Research, an area not open to the public. Table 1 ANIMALS OBSERVED F#2 Wild Caught M#5Wild Caught M#6 Captive Bred M # 7 Captive Bred Approx. 4 yrs . Approx. 4 yrs. Born 8-30-84 Born 8-5-84 In Cage with In Cage with offspring Son of M# 5 In- cage i littermate 1.1 offspring Mate & 2.0 rith Male The animals were maintained on a 12:12 day:night photoperiod. Night was illuminated by 60 watt blue light bulbs situated at twenty-five foot intervals along the ceiling in the holding cage room. During the diurnal period 60 watt flourescent bulbs provided bright white illumination. The white and blue lights were programmed to turn on an off in a staggered pattern to simulate dawn and dusk . The animals were weighed weekly to monitor growth and condition. Cages and nestboxes were cleaned at weekly weighing. The diet (Table 2) consisted of assorted vegetables, fruits, grains, and several other supplements. Animals were fed immediately prior to 1500 hours since Pseudocheirus is primarily nocturnal and usually did not begin feeding until the dark phase of the light cycle. Each cage was provided with a variety of substrates (for purposes of this study a substrate is defined as the type of surface on which an animal is positioned) (Table 3) including tree branches, 2" x 2" wood beams, 1" diameter dowels, 2" and 1" bamboo poles, planks, and feeding platforms (one or two per cage). The different substrates were randomly situated throughout each cage to provide access to all areas of it. 89 CAPTIVE RINGTAIL POSSUM STUDY, CoivUnuad Table 2 Diet of Ring-tailed possums at National Zoological Park 6-1" square pieces of: Carrots Sweet potato Apple String beans Bananas Celery 4-1" sqaure pieces marmoset diet 10 mealworms 6 Raisins 3 grapes 1 monkey chow biscuit 1/4 cup sunflower seed/peanut mix 1 tsp. cottage cheese 1 large leaf kale shredded Table 3 Checksheet information of data collected for ringtail possum space use study QUAD=CAGE ZONE 1-4 OR 1-6 HEIGHT=l-6 FEET SUBSTRATE=TYPE OF BRANCH 2 = 2x2 P = PLANK FP = FEEDING PLATFORM T = TREE D = DOWEL NB = NEST BOX B = BAMBOO F = FLOOR M = MESH ANGLE 0° = PARALLEL WITH FLOOR 30°, 45° , 60° , 90° (+) = HEAD UP , (-) = HEAD DOWN POSTURE BRANCH T = PERPENDICULAR TO BRANCH = = PARALLEL TO BRANCH TAIL USE G = GRASPING D = DRAPED R = RESTING H = HANGING S = STRAIGHT OUT 90 CAPTIVE RINGTAIL POSSUM STUDY, CowUviu&d Data on positional behavior were collected through visual observations between 1500 and 1800 over fourteen non- consecutive nights. One minute scan sampling was conducted on a single focal animal. One animal was observed per evening for one to two hours. Almost 20 hours (1188 minutes) of observation were made. The following data on animal position within the cage was collected during each observation period and noted on a checksheet (Table 3 , adapted from Classman & Wells, 1984): Cage zone, height of the animal within the cage, substrate the animal is positioned on, angle of substrate, orientation on substrate and orientation of tail. Each cage was divided into six vertical zones, each about 1 1/2 square' feet wide, and six horizontal zones each 1 foot in height. The observer sat in front of the cage, visible to the animal, at a distance of about six feet. To determine the distribution of activity during the 24 hour cycle, activity monitoring treadles were set up on most perches throughout the cage containing two animals. Treadles of thin wood strips were of equal length and width to the perch they covered. Electrical contacts between the treadle and perch sent a pulse through a wire when the treadle was pressed to the perch by the animal's weight. Pulses were registered on an event recorder (Esterline Angus model ) . RESULTS The animals spent almost 60% (698 min) out of the nest box (Table 4). The portion of time spent in their nest boxes was classified as an inactive, non-exploratory period and was not used in analysis of space and substrate use. The most active animal ( M# 6 ) was out of the nest box 95% of the observation period. This animal was also observed the most (about 45% of all observations, n=421 min.) In contrast, the second most frequently observed animal (F#2 about 30% of all observations, n=4 06 min.), spent two-thirds of the observation time in the nestbox. The other two study animals made up the remaining 25% of all observations. Table 4 Observation time of ringtail possums Active (visible) vs. Not active (not visible) Animal Active Not Visible Total N F# 2 149 12% 257 21% 406 34% 4 30% M#5 131 11% 169 14% 300 25% 2 15% M#6 393 33% 28 2% 421 35% 6 46% M# 7 25 2% 36 3% 61 5% 1 7% Total 698 58% 490 41% 1188 13 Hours 11 8 19 91 CAPTIVE RINGTAIL POSSUM STUDY, CowUmiad Space & Substrate Use: The possums in this study appeared to use fixed paths throughout their cages during nocturnal movements. Analysis of spatial use in the study animals revealed that the animals spent almost 85% of total observations active in the three to five foot height ranges (Figure 1). Within each cage substrate density in this height range was high (Figure 2, Table 5). The zero to two foot range was occupied about 15% of all observations while the six to seven foot range was occupied for only 2% of all observations. Although substrate was densest at the five to six foot level animals were most frequently observed in the three foot range (X -17.6, pC.OOl) (Figure 1; Table 6). Only about 20% of the possum's activity occurred in the five to six foot range. (Table 6). The possums were most active in the three to five foot range (35% of observations) on 2 x 2 wooden horizontal substrates (X -139.4, pC.OOl) even though trees were greatest in density throughout this height range (X -4.26, p<.0 5) (Figure 2). The 2x2 beams were equally dense throughout this range. Feeding platforms and nestboxes were the next most frequently occupied areas. The possums seemed to use horizontal substrates more than those set at other angles (X -55.4, p < . 0 0 1 ) ( Tab 1 e 6). Moreover, they tended to orient their body parallel to the substrate rather than perpendicular to it (X -86.4, p<.001) (Table 6). Density of substrates within height zones and observed use of zones by ringtail possums (% frequency and observed use) 92 CAPTIVE RINGTAIL POSSUM STUDY, ConUvux.2,d SUBSTRATE Individual substrate frequency within cages and use by ringtail possums (% frequency and observed use) SUBSTRATE Density of substrates through height zones in cages. Thickness of bar is proportional to density of substrates . 93 CAPTIVE RINGTAIL POSSUM STUDY, Continued Eh 2 in CM M i — i oo oo rH MO t"- i — i U oo oo • » • P • 1 • i — I in oo # W P P o o o O o o o o 1 +J ■H w tn CD C Cji 0) td P o Eh -P p 2 P W CJI o H CM OO M* in ID Eh O •H o p a) Eh w ffi p 94 CAPTIVE RINGTAIL POSSUM STUDY, Continued Table 6 - Frequencies and percentages of areas and substrates occupied by ring-tailed possums, observed substrate angles, body orien- tation and tail position. CAGE ZONE 1 2 3 4 5 6 48 26 82 300 140 95 7% 4% 12% 43% 20% 14% HEIGHT 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 53 18 33 226 201 145 15 8% 3% 5% 33% 30% 21% 2% SUBSTRATE NB FP 2X2 D T B PL M FL 85 112 276 63 59 27 13 24 38 12% 15% 40% 9% 9% 4% 2% 3% 5% ANGLE BODY ORIENTATION ANGLE NO ANGLE PERPENDICULAR PARALLEL 234 425 139 343 36% 64% 29% 71% TAIL POSITION HANGING GRASPING RESTING DRAPED STRAIGHT 314 45 128 63 89 49% 7% 20% 10% 14% Activity: Animal activity as recorded by the treadle system over 24 nights revealed a weak bimodal activity period (Figure 4). The possum's activity was high immediately after 1500 hours, then decreased at 1700 hours. Activity rose again at 1900 hours and maintained a somewhat sustained level until 2400 hours when it seemed to start decreasing to zero at 0300 hours. When activity was simultaneously recorded by the treadles and observed, 75% of the activity was recorded by the treadles during 100% of the observed activity. The event recorder and treadle system provided a conservative record of activity. For an average of 56.5 total minutes of observed activity, while the treadle system was operating, 43.5 minutes, or over 75% of the animal's activity was recorded by the treadles (Table 7). Tail Use: The predominant position of the tail was hanging down from a perch (almost 50%). Next most frequently the tail was observed resting on a substrate (20%) and held straight out (14%). Draping (10%) and grasping (7%) with the tail were seen infrequently (Table 6). 95 of Hour Active CAPTIVE RINGTAIL POSSUM STUDY, ConUmiad Table 7 Mean minutes active N= 24 and percent active per hour measured by activity treadle system HOURS MEAN MIN. ACTIVE % HR A 1500 - 19.8 33 1600 24.7 41 1700 18 . 1 30 1800 19.5 33 1900 24.9 42 2000 25.8 43 2100 25.5 43 2200 28.2 47 2300 27 . 3 46 2400 26.6 44 0100 14 . 4 24 0200 2.5 4 0300 0 0 Figure 4 Percentage of each hour that ringtail possums were active as measured by activity treadle system 96 CAPTIVE RINGTAIL POSSUM STUDY, Continued The prehensile tail is used in several interesting ways. Frequently, the tail hangs straight down (Figure B2). Occassional ly the tail would swing back and forth as an animal shifted its body from a parallel position to a transverse one across the plane of the branch. As the possum moved along a substrate the tail tended to be held straight out. The female used in this study often carried her tail straight out as a stabilzer as she moved about the cage with one or two youngsters clinging to her back. Often the tail went from straight out to hanging as soon as a moving animal reached a horizontal and relatively thicker and possibly more' secure surface (Figures A & Bl). The tail was employed for security in case of a fall, maintaining the animal's purchase through descent (Figures C & G) by grasping a branch above the descending possum, or by draping the tail over a branch behind the animal (Figure G). Tail draping was also observed when animals moved from one substrate to another. Figures A thru G - diagramatic representations of various tail positions observed and recorded in ringtail possums: A-straight out; Bl & B2-hanging; C-grasping; D-curled; E-animal hanging by tail; F-draped; G-downward descent using tail to lower hindquarters. i I 97 CAPTIVE RINGTAIL POSSUM STUDY, CoyvtLm&d. The results of this study suggest that ringtail possums preferred horizontal two-inch thick substrates and occupied heights with high substrate density. Although Thomson and Owen (1964) described free-ranging ringtail possum daylight movements "along apparently fixed and well known runways with speed and certainty" (p. 37) , such diurnal activity was only rarely observed in this captive situation. The size of the cages limited the height of the possum's movements and precluded any forest activity described in field studies. My observations did however, reveal fixed paths during nocturnal movements. Thomson and Owen reported that possums left their nests during the beginning of twilight and were most active in the period just prior to midnight. The animals used in the present study were also quite active after their daylight ended. Since observations on space use occurred during the initial period of activity, a good representive sample of their movements was probably obtained. The food platform seemed to be a focal point of time and activity. The nest box appeared to be a similar focus. These two sites are large, flat forms and may resemble a tree cavity or tree trunk crotch to the possums. It is also quite possible that the possums focused their activity around the food platforms simply to be near the food. Flat planks four, six and eight inches wide, however, were used only infrequently. In future studies the position and height of the food platform could be manipulated to determine what effect this has on movements and height preferences . 98 CAPTIVE RINGTAIL POSSUM STUDY, Continued Although trees were the most abundant substrate in all cages, the possums used the two by two wooden substrates more often. The possums may have used the 2x2 perches more because of their preference for that particular diameter perch. More of the 2x2 perches were positioned at horizontal or near horizontal angles, another possible preference of the ringtails. There were few two inch diameter tree branches within the cages and of those present fewer were at near horizontal angles. A possum may have used horizontal substrates as a more stable, supportive perch when it had stopped moving momentarily or was scanning. Horizontal substrates may also provide more stable surfaces for rapid movements through their environment and would therefore be used more frequently. If the tail is used as a balancing mechanism, then horizontal substrates may be mechanically the best and preferred type of perch. Body orientation similarly may be related to stability. A stance parallel to the perch spreads an animal's body weight over a greater area. In a threatening situation a stable posture would also afford the animal a swift exit in almost any direction or prevent itself from being pushed off a perch . Although no quantitative data was collected, it appeared that vertical substrates were used almost exclusively for vertical movement and rarely used for perching. While a prehensile tail might be expected to grasp substrates to prevent falls, grasping or draping the tail was observed infrequently and then only when the animal moved vertically about the cage. From these observations I hypothesized that the tail is used primarily as a counterbalance and secondarily as a fifth hand. Further quantitative studies on tail use are necessary to validate hypotheses on tail use. Cage use by ringtail possums appears to governed by substrate type and density as well as strategic placement of focal areas of attention (e.g. food platform, nest box). Based on the preliminary results of this study the species would do well in a highly visible nocturnal exhibit at least six feet in height with dense areas of mixed two inch thick perches at height zones in the vicinity of the feed station and nest boxes. There is much more to be learned about the housing requirements of ringtail possums. The data of this preliminary study could be subject to further analysis to determine interacting effects between substrate thickness, angle, and height. In addition, manipulation of feed platforms and branch orientations could reveal their effects on possum movements. Our continued research on the the ringtail possum and related species may provide zoos with the information needed to display this little known animal in unique and stimulating conditions. 99 CAPTIVE RINGTAIL POSSUM STUDY, ConUnu&d Acknowledgements Karen Molinas performed some of the observations on the possums. I thank Miles Roberts, Steve Thompson, Ted Grand and Roberta Wallace for critic- ally reviewing various drafts of the manuscript. REFERENCES Presidente, P.J.A. Common Ringtail possums: Maintenance in captivity, blood values & diseases, in Evans, D.D. (Ed.) Management of Australian Mammals in Captivity, Proceedings of the Scientific Meeting of the Australian Mammal Society, Healsville, Victoria, Feb. 1979. Zoological Board of Melbourne, 1982 Ramsay, Ware, Stockard, Ltd. Hume, I.D., W.J. Foley & M.J. Chilcott. Physiological mechanisms of foliage digestion in the greater glider and ringtail possum (MarsupialiarPseudocheiridae) in A. Smith & I. Hume (Eds.) 1984. Possums ^ Gliders. Surrey, Beatty & Sons Pty. Ltd. Chipping Norton, NSW How, R.A., J.L. Barnett, A.J. Bradley, W.J. Humphreys & R.W. Martin. The population biology of Pseudocheirus peregrinus in a Leptospermum laevigatum thicket. in A. Smith & I. Hume (Eds.) 19 8 4 .Possums Gliders. Surrey, Beatty & Sons Pty. Ltd. Chipping Norton, NSW Cork, S.J. & L. Pahl. The possible influence of nutritional factors on diet and habitat selection by the ringtail possum (Pseudocheirus peregrinus ) . in A. Smith & I. Hume (Eds.) 1984. Possums ^ Gliders. Surrey, Beatty & Sons Pty. Ltd. Chipping Norton, NSW Gipps, J.M. & Sanson, G.D. Mastication and Digestion in Pseudocheirus in A. Smith & I. Hume (Eds.) 1 98 4 .Possums 6^ Gliders. Surrey, Beatty & Sons Pty. Ltd. Chipping Norton, NSW Smith, A. & Hume, I. 1984. Possums & Gliders. Surey Beatty & Sons Pty Ltd. NSW. Glassman, D.M. & Wells, J.P. 1984 Positional & activity behavior in captive slow loris: A quantitative assessment. Am. J. Prim. 7:121-132. Tate, G.H.H. 1945. Results of the Archbold expeditions. No. 54 The marsupial genus Pseudocheirus and its subgenera. American Museum Novitates. 1287: 1-28. Thomson, J.A. & Owen, W.H. 1 9 64 . A field study of the Australian ring-tailed possum Pseudocheirus peregrinus ( Marsupial ia: Phanalgeridae) . Ecological Monographs. 34:27-52 100 Chapter News FRESNO ZOO AAZK CHAPTER Newly elected officers of the Fresno AAZK Chapter are: President Betty Barkman Vice Pres Paula Swanson Secretary Wattie Anderson Treasurer Jim Wolters The Fresno Chapter accomplished several things in 1986. At the keepers request, we donated and installed an electrically-cooled water fountain for the staff. We followed this up a few months later with the donation of a micro- wave oven. We have also donated funds twice to the Fresno Zoo Society’s Staff Education Fund. Funds were also donated to help implement a special signage program (more about this at a later date) . The sale of T-shirts and sweat- shirts is our main source of in- come, so a T-shirt design contest was held to supply a new design. We hope to identify new fund- raising sources in 1987. — Hasty L. Sutayuon ZOO ATLANTA AAZK CHAPTER On 4 February 1987, Zoo Atlanta AAZK held elections for the new year. New officers are: President .... .Ellen Bradfield Vice Pres Tim Kurkowski Sec/Treas Gary Roesinger Chapter Liaison. . .Tim Kurkowski Zoo Atlanta AAZK, with the help of public donations gave World Wildlife Fund a check for $800! We look forward to a year full of exciting fund-raising and projects ! Tajt\ KuAkomkl PITTSBURGH CHAPTER The Pittsburgh Chapter started 1987 with the election of officers. Those to serve this year are: President. . . . .Regina Grebb Vice Pres Kathy Robbibaro Secretary Karen Lindquist Treasurer Ray Bambrick Our Chapter has some exciting pro- jects planned for the coming months, including the appointment of a Chapt- er archivist, and the collection and establishment of a Pittsburgh Zoo memorabilia display. Kcutky Robblbasio , l/.P. PHILADELPHIA CHAPTER AAZK Current officers for the Phila- delphia AAZK Chapter are: President Denise Robinson Vice Pres Bob Murch Secretary Roseann Giambro Treasurer Eileen Gallagher Chapter Liaison. . .Denise Robinson As a fund-raiser the Chapter has held a Keeper’s Night where mem- bers of the Zoo get to talk with keepers about their areas and in certain areas members can get behind-the-scenes tours. Average income is $100-$ 150. At their monthly meetings, keepers show slides of past zoo trips and sometimes a film is rented. EAST BAY CHAPTER AAZK This Chapter includes members from the Knowland Park/Oakland Zoo. Current officers are: President Alan Varsik Vice Pres/Treas Bill Garrison Secretary Karen E. Brown 101 CHAPTER NEWS, Continued BURNET PARK ZOO CHAPTER The Burnet Park Zoo Chapter was very busy last year preparing for our reopening on 2 August 1986. We did manage to hold monthly meetings and produced a braille guide to the zoo . This year our chapter feels there will be more time to pursue projects and already have many in the begin- ning stages. We have elected officers for 1987. They are: President Alan Baker Vice Pres Peggy Arquette Secretary Krista Larrow Treasurer Laina Matteson — Peggy A Kquette, ChapteA Liaison ATTENTION CHAPTERS! Plecue -6 end National HQ a pTe.ce, ofi youn. Chapter lettenhead ok a photocopy o{) youA ChapteA logo. We i mnt to keep a. kite oi logo-6 -60 that when a. new Chapter want6 to design a logo, duplication can be avoided. Thanks! FLINT HILLS CHAPTER The Flint Hills Chapter, Sunset Zoo, Manhattan, KS, recently elected new officers for 1987. They are: President Mike Quick Vice Pres Ron Schulze Secretary Mary Haines Treasurer Diann Roberts Chapter Liasion..Tim Marshall Keeper’s Alert FOUNDER'S WEEKEND UPDATE - The price for the limited edition, commemora- tive T-shirts has been reduced to $15.00 each. Only 250 numbered shirts will be printed in honor of AAZK's 20th Anniversary 'Founder’s Weekend' 5--7 May 1987. To order send size, number desired and check or money order made payable to "Art Goodrich" to: Art Goodrich, AAZK Historian, Mammal Dept., San Diego Zoo, Box 551, San Diego, CA 92112. Also, if you need more information on Founder's Weekend, see the gold insert in the February 1987 issue of AKF or write to Art for an informa- tion/registration packet at the address above. Dan Badgley, reptile headkeeper at the Columbus Zoo, will lead a tour 20 April - 3 May to Costa Rica. The tour will emphasize the natural his- tory of Costa Rica, with special interest given to amphibians and reptiles. A wide variety of habitats will be toured, including Monteverde cloud for- est at the time most probable for seeing the Golden Toad. Cost is $1995, including a $150 donation to the Columbus Zoo. For further details, contact Dan at the Columbus Zoo, 9990 Riverside Dr., Box 400, Powell, OH 43065. 102 AAZK Regional Coordinators Co-Directors Regional Coordinator System States East of Mississippi - Diane Krug, Rt. 1, Box 273, Hillard, FL 32046. (904) 225-9559 (work) (904) 845-4279 (home) States West of Mississippi - Debbera Stecher, Woodland Park Zoo, 5500 Phinney Ave., North, Seattle, WA 98103 (206) 625-5402 (work) (206) 745-8198 (home) REGIONAL COORDINATORS John Linehan, Franklin Park Zoo, Boston, MA (617) 442-7646 (w) for the states of ME, VT,NH,MA,RI ,CT Peter Buchholz, Bronx Zoo, New York (212) 220-5154 (w) (718) 229-7711 (h) for the states of NY, VA and the District of Columbia Denise Robinson, Philadelphia Zoo, Philadelphia, PA for the states of PA,DE,NJ,MD VACANCY - for the states of TN,NC,SC, W.VA VACANCY - for the states of MI,IN,KY and OH Larry Sammarco, Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago, IL (312) 294-4660 (w) for the states of WI , IL,M0,MN, IA Tim Kurkowski, Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, GA (404) 624-5600 (w) (404)428-0535 (h) for the states of GA,AR,AL Marcelle Guidry, Greater Baton Rouge Zoo, LA (504) 775-3877 (h) (504) 388- for the states of LA, MS 9392 (h) Vikki Bohnert, 2264 Winkler Ave., B-ll, Ft. Myers, FL 33901 for the state of Florida John R. Turner, Denver Zoo, Denver, CO for the states of C0,NM,TX Steve Tigges, Tulsa Zoological Park, Tulsa, OK for the states of 0K,NE,KS,ND,SD Laurence Gledhill, Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle, WA (206) 625-5497 (w) for the states of WA,0R,ID,MT,WY,AK Art Goodrich, San Diego Zoo, San Diego, CA for the states of CA,NV,UT,AZ Honolulu AAZK Chapter (Dan Vitiello, Pres.) (808) 923-4772 (w) for the Hawaiian Islands Neville Howard Pike, Metro Toronto Zoo, Box 280, West Hill, Ontario Ml E 4R5 for the Province of Ontario, Canada Bob Debets, Assiniboine Park Zoo, 2235 Corydon Ave., Winnipeg, Manitoba R3P 0R5 (204) 489-3893 (h) for the Province of Manitoba, Canada Marcia Rasmussen, Calgary Zoo, P.0. Box 3036, Stn. B,., Calgary, Alberta Canada, (403) 235-5461 (h) for the Provinces of Alberta and British Columbia, Canada Weed membehshlp Infiohmatlon? Want to leahn mohe about AAZK oh. stant a chapteh oh. become mo he. active - then call youh RC! Thehe ahe still open- ings ioh RC positions ioh (I) the. states o& TN,MC,SC, W. At/) and (?) the. states ofi MI, I N,KV,0H. you ahe Interested, please, contact Vtanc Khug , Eastern U.S. Regional Co-Vlrectoh. Vou may call Vtanc collect at hch home phone (904) £45-4279 ) evenings afiter 6 p.m. EST. These two positions ofifieh a gheat oppohtuntty to become Involved tn AAZK and to phovtde a valuable and necebi>ahy ^choice faoh the Association. 103 Institutions wishing to advertise employment opportunities axe asked to send pertinent data by the 15th ofi each month to: Opportunity Knoeks/ AKE, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606. Please Include closing dates ox posl- tlons available. Thexe Is no ehaxge i ox this service and phone-in list- ings oi positions which become available close to deadline axe accepted. ZOOKEEPER/SMALL ANIMAL. . .experience with birds and/or reptiles preferred; responsibilities may include all small animal forms. Salary $12,504- $14,508 commensurate with experience, plus benefits. Send resume by 24 March 1987 to: Personnel Department, City of Abilene, P.0. Box 60, Abilene, TX 79604. ELEPHANT HANDLER. . .requires one year experience with ele- phants. Will assist trainer and participate in African elephant husbandry program and exotic hoof stock manage- ment. Salary $1 , 205-$l , 541 per month, benefits. Applica- tions accepted until position filled. Send resume to: Mike Blakley, Curator of Mammals, Kansas City Zoo, Swope Park, Kansas City, MO 64132. INTERNSHIP. . . the Friends of the Salisbury Zoo has estab- lished an annual internship to honor the memory of Bruce MacNelly, one of our young keepers, who died after a brief illness in 1986. The FOSZ will pay an honorarium of $500 to assist with travel or living costs. Applications are invited from persons who are, or wish to become profession- al zoo keepers, and who would benefit by working in a small zoo for three months. Preference will be given to residents of the Delmarva Peninsula, but all will be considered. A resume and personal handwritten letter, with names of three persons to whom reference may be made should be sent to the Director, Salisbury Zoo, P.0. Box 3163, Salisbury, MD 21801 before 30 April 1987. Inquiries by letter are welcome. Z00KEEPER. . .requires associate degree in animal science, BS in Biology or related field. One year's paid experience desired. Avian and/or herpe- tological expertise emphasized. Salary $10, 000-$l 1 , 000 , plus benefits. Send resume by 20 March to: Laura Trechsel, General Curator, Folsom Child- ren's Zoo, 2800 A Street, Lincoln, NE 68502. EOE. EVUCATION INTERNSHIPS . . .available in the areas of art, science and out- door recreation. Instructors will work under the direction of education department staff in planning, conducting and evaluating zoo day camp ses- sions for preschoolers through fifth graders. Two years' college work in elementary education or environmental interpretation or applicable exper- ience preferred. Salary $150/wk. for 10-week internship from 22 June through 28 August. Send resume and letter of intent by 15 April 1987 to: Jay Jasan, Assistant Director of Education, Staten Island Zoo, 614 Broad- way, Staten Island, NY 10310. HEAD KEEPER / ASSISTANT CURATOR. . .will oversee 500 animal collection and supervision of keeper staff, landscaping and exhibit design. Bachelor's degree and/or zoo supervisory experience preferred. Send resume before 25 March, 1987 to: Benson's Animal Park, 27 Kimball Hill Rd., Hudson, NH 03051, Attn. Mika Nurmikko, General Curator. VETERINARY/ TECHNICIAN . . .position open at Topeka Zoological Park. For information, contact: Dr. Stan Jensen, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606 (913) 272-5821. 9 O P P 0 r t u n • 1 t y n o c k 104 AAZK MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION Name Address $25.00 Professional full-time keepeta $25.00 International A ll membetu outA4.de. the. U.S . and Canada $15.00 Library llbtmtiy AubActilptlon only Directory Information: zoo Check here if renewal [ ] $20.00 Affiliate OtheA Atafifi and volunteeta $15.00 Associate I ndivtdualA not connected with an animal catie facility $50.00 Contributing OtiganlzatlonA and J ndivtdualA Work Area Special Interests Mail this application and check or money order (U.S. CURRENCY ONLY PLEASE), payable to American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc.s to: AAZK National Headquarters, Topeka Zoo, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606. Membership includes a subscription to Animal Keepeta' Fotuim. The member- ship card is good for free admission to many zoos and aquariums in the U.S* and Canada . 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PRINTED IN U.S. A. ■§ * b » ST° 3 5C U s* ? o* *2 35 eg N^S ^ §•!£ Ov 03(8 3 g ^ g- «• o SP-6L S ON ”0 0) >1 7T S ? & to «8 |§ >**■ hC *g April 1987 Animal Keepers' edicated to Professional Animal Care ANIMAL KEEPERS' FORUM. 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606 Executive Editor: Alice Miser April 1987 Managing Editor: Susan Chan Volume Fourteen Associate Editor: Ron Ringer Number Four Animal Keepers' Forum (ISSN 0164-9531) is a monthly journal of the American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc., 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606. Five dollars of each membership fee goes toward annual publication costs of Animal Keepers' Forum . Second Class postage paid at Topeka, KS. Postmaster: Please send address changes to: American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. National Headquarters, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606 Barbara Manspeaker, Administrative Secretary BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jean Hromadka, San Diego Wild Animal Park President Escondido, CA 92025 Frank B. Kohn, National Zoological Park Vice President Washington, DC 20008 Oliver Claffey, Metro Toronto Zoo, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Susan M. Barnard, Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, GA Kerry Hoffman, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Tucson, AZ COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS - PROJECT HEADS .Conference Book Committee Phil Pennock, Woodland Park Awards Committee Rachel Rogers, Miami Metrozoo Book Review Coordinator Kathy Sucharitakul, Akron Zoo Legislative Action Committee Becky Rogers, Topeka Zoo International Affairs Coordinators - Melba Shields, Calgary Zoo (west) Staff Exchange Elandra Aum, Woodland Park Zoo Program Library Debbie Jackson, Litde Rock Zoo Exhibit Design Form Diane Forsyth, Akron Zoo Keeper Accommodations List Oliver Claffey, Metro Toronto Zoo Keeper Training Videotape Wayne Buchanan, Woodland Park Zoo Keeper Training Materials Identification Rosemary Jalink, Mill Mountain Zoo Reference Search Liz McLaughlin, Roger Williams Park Zoo Jenny Rentfrow, Mason, MI Keeper Education Committee Pat Sammarco, Lincoln Park Zoo Research/Grants Committee Frank Kohn/Kaci Thompson, NZP Public Education Committee Jay Jasan, Staten Island Zoo AAZK-History Committee Art Goodrich, San Diego Zoo National Zoo (east) and Pam McDougall, Animal Data Transfer Fortn Bemie Feldman, Burnet Park Zoo Membership .. Directory. Pat Sammarco, Lincoln Park Zoo Piet Notebook Susan Bunn, Minnesota Zoo Biological Vaiues/Gestation Greater S. F. Bay Area Chapter Library Resources Kaci Thompson, NZP Infant Development Notebook Steven Wing, Milwaukee Zoo Nominations Elections. Janet McCoy, Washington Park Zoological Gardens CQ-PIRECTORS REGIONAL. COORDINATORS States East of the Mississippi - Diane Krug, White Oak Plantation, Yulee, FL States West of Mississippi - Debbera Stecher, Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle, WA Individual Regional Coordinators and the states under their oversight are listed elsewhere in each issue of AKF. This month's cover features a mother and infant lowland gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) by Yoshi. Yonetani, of ZooDEL (Zoo Design and Education Lab) of Kobe, Japan. Members of the great ape family, gorillas live in family social groups made up of a dominant adult silverback, one or more immature blackback males and a number of females and their offspring. Gorillas are for the most part strictly vegetarians and despite their impressive size and strength are shy and gentle animals except when threatened. Native to Africa, all gorilla species are endangered due to habitat destruction and poaching for illegal trophies. Thanks, Yoshi! SCOOPS AND SCUTTLEBUTT AKF Takes on New Look With the arrival of the Macintosh Desktop Publishing system at AAZK National Headquarters, not only AKF, but other publications, correspondence etc. will be taking on a new, and we hope more professional look. The equipment was installed in late February and both the Administrative Secretary Barbara Manspeaker and AKF managing editor Susan Chan have been learning the ins and outs of the new technology. Besides the publications aspects of the new equipment, all AAZK records including membership lists and financial spreadsheets will be kept on the new computer. In the months ahead you will be seeing a number of changes in the format of Animal Keepers' Forum. We ask your patience and understanding while we improve our computer skills. We are very excited about the broad range of possibilities the new equipment offers the editorial staff and we hope to continue to improve AKF as the months go by. AAZK President Jean Hromadka and Vice President Frank Kohn visited National HQ in Topeka in March to view the new equipment and to go over some mid-year AAZK business. Both were impressed with the capabilities of the system and enthusiastic about the positive changes it will allow us to make. Keep watching every month to see your journal improve and reflect a more professional image for AAZK! AAZK Awards Deadline Getting Closer The deadline for submitting nominations for the various AAZK awards is 1 Tune 1987. Awards are presented each year at the National Conference. For information on the various awards and the nominations procedures, please see the January, February and March issues of AKF. Each has a page devoted to a particular award and gives all the information you will need for submitting a nomination. All nominations should be sent to: Rachel Rogerds, AAZK Awards Committee Chairperson, Metrozoo, 12400 S.W. 152 St., Miami, FL 33177. ATTENTION ALL PROFESSIONAL AAZK MEMBERS! Elections for new members of the AAZK Board of Directors will be held soon. Ballots and biographies on the candidates will be sent to all professional AAZK members in April. Enclosed with each ballot will be a self-addressed envelope in which to return your ballot. Please take the time to cast your ballot and show your support for the Association. Don't Forget To Vote! It just takes a moment of your time. Remember only Professional members in good standing are permitted to vote. ® 105 COMING EUENTS RFIZPfl Southern Regional Conference May 3-5, 1987 Tampa, FL For more information contact: Judith Breuggeman, Education Coordinator, Busch Gardens, Boh 915B, Tampa, FL 33674 (B13) 988-5171. flflZK 20th Rnniuersary "Founders Weekend May 5-7, 1987 San Diego, CR Held to honor the original founders of RRZK, the "weekend" will include workshops, tours, banquet, etc. For an information/registration packet contact RRZK Historian Rrt Goodrich, Mammal Dept., San Diego Zoo, Boh 551, San Diego, CR 92112 DR see the February RKF for the gold insert which contains both registration form and hotel accommodations form. Botanical and Wildlife Art Shorn May 14-17, 1987 Los Rngeles, CR For more information contact: Patti Glouer, Los Rngeles Zoo, 5333 Zoo Driue, Los Rngeles, CR 90027 (213) 664-1100. The 1 1th International Herpetological Symposium on Captiue Propagation and Husbandry June 17-20, 1987 Chicago, IL For more information contact: Richard Hahn, Zoological Consortium, Inc., 13019 Catoctin Furnace Road, Thurmont, MD 21788 (31 0) 271-7488. First International Children s Zoo Symposium July 1-4, 1987 Philadelphia, PR Rs we all know, keepers are essential for the successful learning enperience of the casual uisitor to a Children s Zoo. Keeper participation is also essential for a successful Children's Zoo Sgmposium. UJe would like keepers to present papers and participate in workshops during this symposium. The symposium will focus on History and Philosophy, Design and Learning, and Rnimal Collection and Purpose. There will be pre- and post-conference trips to the Bronn and Baltimore Zoos plus much more. Registration is $1 00.00. For further information contact: Robert Callahan, Curator of Children's Zoo, Philadelphia Zoo, 34th St. & Girard Rue., Philadelphia, PR 19104 (215) 243-1 100, Ent. 300. 106 After a long-term behavioral study, hundreds of urine samples and carefully monitored trial introductions of females to the male, a baby Tamandua (Tamandua tetradactvla) has been born at Lincoln Park Zoo (Chicago, IL). This is the sixth captive birth in the free world, and only the second to be mother-raised. The infant, apparently a male, was born to Coletto and Nina on 18 November 1986, with eyes open, and a tendancy to rear up and defend himself when left in the nest as mom moved away to eat, and against even her as she returned. By the end of January the infant started trying the adult diet, a sort of meat milkshake, but continued to nurse through February. This rare birth is the second at Lincoln Park. Five-year-old Jose is the surviving twin of another pair. Submitted by Pat Sammarco, Keeper, Lincoln Park Zoo. Metro Toronto Zoo's continuing commitment to conservation efforts has paid off with the birth of a pygmy hippopotamus on 15 February 1987. "Psi", the father, was born at the National Zoo in Washington, DC, on 23 October, 1972, and came to MTZ on 18 July, 1973. "Hilda", the mother, was born at the Basel Zoo in Switzerland on 13 March, 1972, and arrived at MTZ on 6 September, 1973. This if her fourth calf. The baby, as yet unsexed, is quite small although it has not been weighed as yet. Typical birth weight for this species is between 4.5 and 6.2 kilograms. The gestation period for the newborn was 202 days. Another significant birth occured on 6 March at Metro Toronto Zoo with the arrival of a baby Bornean Orangutan born to the female "Abigail". From Metro Toronto Zoo News Release. The following B&H were reported in the March issue of The Keeper, the newsletter of the San Diego Chapter of AAZK: Eighteen Chinese crocodile lizards (Shinisaurus crocodilurus ) were born at the end of 1986 to two females. As far as is known, this is the highest birth ratio recorded for this species. Two baby Asiatic small-clawed otters (Aonvx. & cinerea) have been observed in the Southeast Asia Tropical Rain Forest. The birthdate of the offspring of "Todd" and "Endora" was estimated to be I January. This is Endora's first litter. Following a change to more natural management, the animals were allowed to prepare their own burrow. Apparently it worked as these were the first pups since 1981 . A Somali wild ass (Equus asinus somalicus ) born on 28 October 1986 has been moved to the Wild Animal Park to become part of the breeding colony there. He is the first hand-raised Somali ass in the world. At the Koala exhibit, "Adele", mother of the Park's first koala offspring "Sydney", has done it again: one of the keepers saw a little leg sticking out of her pouch in February. (Editor's note: Spring is upon us and we know that means lots of B&H at your facilities! Let us hear from you. Please submit B&H in the format illustrated above. Submit B&H by the 15th of each month.) ® KEEPER’S ALERT THE PHILADELPHIA CHAPTER IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE that it will reimburse the $100 registration fee for a keeper attending the International Children's Zoo Symposium July 1-4 1987 in Philadelphia. The recipient will be chosen in a random drawing on July 1. 107 THE POSITIVE EFFECTS OF CONFERENCE PARTICIPATION By Jean Hromadka, President AAZK San Diego Wild Animal Park Escondido, CA During the months of September and October, I had the opportunity of attending two national conferences held annually by the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums (AAZPA), and the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK). The 62nd Annual AAZPA Conference was held in Minneapolis, MN from 14-18 September. Later that month, AAZK held her 12th National Conference in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada from 28 September to 2 October. Since l am presently serving as AAZK's National president, I was sent to AAZPA's conference to represent the Association. While I was there I participated in their yearly "Poster Session" whereby individual wildlife organizations and projects are displayed visually in billboard form. You are also assigned a table to make available to anyone interested additional information about your individual organization and its goals. Throughout the week I was able to meet many AAZPA delegates from zoo directors to students trying to find employment in the field. Many approached with encouraging remarks about AAZK, especially zoo administrators. Numerous zoo directors paused at my table to announce that they had sent zoo keepers to AAZK conferences in the past and were planning on sending one or two to the one coming up. I was astonished that so many members were familiar with AAZK's two publications, Biological Values for Selected Mammals and Zoonotic Diseases, both of which were highly praised. Another AAZK project which has won favor and is used regularly in over 129 zoos, animal parks and other private institutions, is our Animal Data Transfer Forms. Of course all the various AAZK brochures and complimentary issues of Animal Keepers' Forum arranged on the display table would quickly disappear before I had time to replenish my stock. Presently, AAZPA and AAZK are working jointly on certain projects and committees so that we will not duplicate our efforts, but rather compliment them. A new network has been formed called the Consortium of Aquariums, Universities and Zoos (CAUZ) founded by Donna Fitzroy Hardy, Ph.D. at California State University Northridge. Although this network is not established or controlled by either AAZPA or AAZK, both are necessary components within the CAUZ network if it is to be able to fulfill its projected goals. The main function of CAUZ is to serve as a communications link between zoos, aquariums and universities and their scientists and educators. Another exciting benefit AAZK realized through her involvement with this AAZPA conference were the contacts I was able to establish with animal facilities located throughout South America. Representatives from these countries came to report not only on their successes but their failures as well, and to seek assistance from those willing to offer it. AAZK can once again exercise its goals stated in the constitution by sponsoring South American zoo keepers, facilities and animal protection groups through our Chapters or individual AAZK members. As we are supporting Indian zoo keepers with sponsored memberships and providing zoo-related materials, so we can accomplish the same for our sister zoos in South America. The American Association of Zoo Keepers held their 12th National Confernce in Canada hosted by the Assiniboine Park Zoo AAZK Chapter. Of course the majority of delegates attending this conference were zoo keepers. For the past six years I have been attending AAZK national conferences like it was an instinctual annual migration which I must perform. This year was probably the most difficult since I was participating as the Association's president. On the other hand, probably what made this task so simple is that the AAZK organization is completely operated and supervised by its members, zoo keepers. Since many of the members actively involved with a committee or project attended this conference, I was relieved as well as reassured that the Association's future is not determined by a handful of individuals but by progressive keepers who are willing to sacrifice to help upgrade our profession. Over 133 delegates attended this conference representing all of North America as well as one delegate from Ireland and another from Australia. Conference activities varied from paper sessions, field trips to Assiniboine Park Zoo and Oak Marsh Hammock to special workshops and zoolympics. The host Chapter provided many of the meals and scheduled events free to the 108 THE POSITIVE EFFECTS OF CONFERENCE PARTICIPATION. Continued delegates allowing the conference to remain fairly inexpensive. Obviously, the Winnipeg keepers worked long and hard for this event for it reflected in every well-organized activity that was planned during the week. Whenever a function runs as smoothly as this conference did, you know that a lot of forethought went into it. Each year the AAZK organization grows a little stronger and this is reflected at the annual meeting. Through the board meetings which are held at the beginning of the week and are open to all members, we are able to discuss in detail Association business and make any necessary decisions for all of AAZK's various commitments. A summary of the organization is then presented at the Annual Membership Meeting to make the membership aware of AAZK's progress and needed adjustments. Two changes were made in the constitution after a vote by the membership had been taken. First of all, those AAZK members serving on the Nominations and Election Committee may n&l be nominated or run for a National board position while serving on this committee. Secondly, any Chapter product using the AAZK logo or acronym must split the profits 50/50 with National. It was also approved that any Chapter product that uses just the acronym (like individual Chapter T-shirts or Chapter patches) may sell their goods at any animal-related conferences without splitting the profits with National. This would not be allowed for any of the AAZK logo items like the belt buckles, coffee mugs, AAZK T-shirts and baseball caps. Over the year AAZK has taken a number of important steps. During the early part of 1987, the AAZK National Headquarters located in Topeka, KS will, for the first time in the Association's history, have a computer system best suited for our organization finally installed. Through our International Affairs Coordinators we have developed a sponsorship program for zoo keepers in Third World countries whereby Chapters and individuals can 'adopt' a keeper and provide membership fees and educational materials. We have also been recently appointed an active branch of the CAUZ network and are involved with another proposal to develop curriculum for a Keeper Training Workshop. Two of our publications will be made available on a book list put out by Wildlife Publications. A video tape depicting the role of a zoo keeper is in the planning stages with a PBS station in Arizona. Three more publications are presently striving for completion, two of them are notebooks which deal with diets and mother-reared animals; the other is a book dealing with zoo keeping fundamentals which we hope to have in rough draft form by the middle of 1987. All of these projects are still in need of your feedback. They are all keeper-oriented projects that we created to enhance the zoo keeping profession. Completion of these on-going projects will only be possible through your involvement. Countless are the benefits after attending a conference. Not only do you make many valuable contacts, but the knowledge gained through papers presented and from personal conversations with delegates can be integrated into your professional duties. Most of us return overwhelmed with enthusiasm and tireless energy which we immediately attempt to transfer into our daily routines. I was very proud to be a part of both conferences for they remind you how much work there is still left to do and no matter how small the contribution you make to this field, it does help make a difference. ® 109 Notes on Secondary Pneumonial Death in an Infant Baird's Tapir By Pat Hook, Senior Keeper Riverbanks Zoo, Columbia, SC On 14 October, 1985, a female Baird's tapir (Tapirus bairdii ) gave birth to her fourth offspring at Riverbanks Zoo. On 16 October, a physical examination was given to the apparently healthy neonate. No abnormalities or problems were discovered at that time. However, on 25 October, diarrhea was found. No other clinical signs were manifested. Despite immediate therapy, based on observations and laboratory cultures, the animal's condition deteriorated by 23 November to a point necessitating removal from his mother and placement in the zoo hospital. He was found cold, weak, unable to walk unassisted, and with a pale color to his gums. Intense therapy ensued, including round the clock treatment by staff veterinarians and keepers. In spite of everyone's efforts, the animal died on 27 November. The histopathological evaluation received from the University of Georgia Department of Veterinary Pathology indicated two conditions. Most of the gut sections appeared normal. However, several small areas contained dead cells covered with debris. The submucosa in these areas was fluid filled. No bacteria was seen in the gastrointestinal tract and the changes within suggested viral etiology. Abnormalities in the lung section included bacteria caused thickened tissue covered by a layer of necrotic inflamatory cells. In several areas on the surface of the lung were accumulations of bacteria. The functional tissue of the lung had collapsed in most areas and some of the air cells in the lung contained white blood cells used to fight the bacterial pneumonia. In conclusion, the actual cause of death, bacterial pneumonia, was considered a resultant condition of the original problem of an intestinal virus. No evidence of a virus was found in the lungs indicating that the route of infection of the virus was through ingestion. It is believed that the virus weakened the animal thereby making him a suitable candidate for bacterial pneumonia. # \ Animal Lovers: Answer Your Call to the Wild! Berkeley--The University of California Research Expeditions Program (UREP) is currently recruiting field team members from the general public to join animal behavior expeditions heading for Africa, Australia, South America and the Caribbean. Working with scientists from the University of California, the UREP teams will conduct population studies of marine birds in the Aleutian Islands, track forest monkeys in Kenya’s Kakamega forest and investigate the parenting habits of sea lions in Baja. No previous experience is necessary to join the expedition, although the patient observation skills most animal watchers have developed are a definite bonus. As in all UREP expeditions, participants help fund the research by making a tax-deductible contribution to join the team. This contribution also covers participant costs for food and accommodations during the expedition. Most expeditions depart during June and July. For further information and a free expedition catalog, contact: University Research Expeditions Program (UREP), University of California, Desk D-10, Berkeley, CA 94720 or call (415) 642-6586. 110 SPECTRUM Quality exotic animal diets Nutritionally balanced Fixed formulation • Economical When you need a complete line of high-quality dry and frozen animal diets for your feeding program, call Animal Spectrum. NEBRASKA BRAND h \ SPECTRUM BROOD-RITE HEATERS Frozen feline diets Frozen bird of prey diets Frozen canine diet Chunk and chopped horsemeat, hearts, livers, rib, shank, and knuckle bones The original gluten-free primate diets. Banana flavored primate, 15% protein Banana flavored primate, Pro-Plus 25% protein Omnivore dry Polar Bear dry Ratite dry Hoofstock supplement, with Selenium Bulbless heaters— nothing to break. Safe around all animals and bedding material. Even heat distribution in 240, 500, or 750 wattages. One call does it all ^ 1-800-228-4005 In Nebraska, call collect 402/488-6492 Animal Spectrum, Inc. Box 6307 Lincoln, NE 68506-0307 Watch this space for what's new for zoos! HAVING A BALL WITH BEETLEMANIA BY David Thornton, Elephant Keeper Brookfield Zoo, Chicago, IL Maintaining the world's only collection of captive dung beetles may seem like a difficult task, but to the Pachyderm keepers at Chicago's Brookfield Zoo, it's all in a day's work. In fact, the beetles have made the keeper's job easier. "Before we obtained the beetles," said Joanie Stinson, Pachyderm Supervisor, "cleaning the African elephant yard required at least two man hours per day. Now, including maintenance of the beetles, the job takes only four hours a week." Taking care of the beetles, all 150 of them, is actually very simple, explained Lead Beetle Keeper David Thornton. "The beetles are released into the yard at 5:00 p.m., when the elephants are brought in for the night. We rake up the excess hay, and when the beetles have finished "rolling", we pick up the balls. The beetles are then called back to their boxes and fed. The beetles receive Purina Beetle Chow with some chopped fruit added." There have been a few problems. "It took about five weeks to train them to return to the night boxes at a whistle," said Joanie, who is also head beetle trainer, "they're actually quite intelligent for insects, and once they realized their food was in the boxes, they came right in." And then there's Jo-Jo. "It's interesting how easily you can learn to identify individuals, even among over 100 animals. Missing legs, different colors or markings, even behavior, who's first or last to the box, can all be used. But there is no mistaking Jo-Jo," David laughed. "Jo-Jo is the largest, most aggresive, mature male dung beetle found anywhere," states Tawny Carlson, Beetle Liaison for the Phoenix Zoo, as well as originator of the Brookfield herd. Tawny spent one week in Africa researching the behavioral and nutritional requirements of the dung beetle and was an active participant in the collection of the founder stock of 50 beetles. "Jo-Jo was one of our founder stock, but at the time he was unremarkable. It was during his first two months of captive life that he began to grow and grow. He stopped growing about six months ago, at almost twice normal size. It was about a month later that he went into his first musth," related Tawny. Musth is a period of aggressive behavior in males previously thought to occur only in elephants. David was the first to spot it. "I went out to rake and then collect the beetles, when suddenly there came this enormous dung ball. I stepped out of the way, but it followed me as I backed into the wall. I was able to push away the ball with my rake, but then I was face-to-face with Jo-Jo. He had this wild-eyed look and was snarling. I slowly backed to the door, talking quietly and using the rake to fend off his occasional charges. I'm just lucky I knew what to do!" David said. This unheard of phenomenom has attracted scientists from all over the world, including Susie Kasielke, Beetle Liaison at the Los Angeles Zoo, as well as an expert in musth males. "Jo-Jo displays all the characteristics of a male elephant in musth," she stated. "He is aggressive, vocal, and unresponsive to commands. Jo-Jo refused to enter his night box for three days the first period. At present, he enters musth approximately every six months for about a two-week period, at which time he allows only Joanie and David in the yard. All other keepers are chased into the moat." Aside from Jo-Jo, the other beetles are usually well mannered. There are occasional squabbles over food or choice dung, but they end quickly. Over the past thirteen months the population has grown from fifty to one hundred-fifty, which is near capacity here. Any more and there's just not enough dung," said Tawny. 112 HAVING A BALL WITH BEETLEMANIA. Continued In addition to Phoenix and Los Angeles, there are a few other institutions interested in forming their own herds. The advantages of easier cleaning associated with a possible mixed species exhibit prove quite appealing, and not just with pachyderms, Susie reports. "We are interested in beetles for all our hoofstock areas, not just the elephants." At Brookfield, keepers plan to start a second herd for use with the Black Rhinoceros yard. There are also plans being developed to include a beetle herd in the African Plains exhibit, due to begin construction sometime. But will there be more males like Jo-Jo? "One day, all zoos will have at least one herd," related Joanie, "but there will only be one Jo-Jo. He's young now, and we hope he will be around for a long time. No other male can match his size, he is truly magnificant." She glanced at the photos of Ziggy, the legendary bull Asian elephant, and Brookfield's "other" rogue animal. "At least I hope there not another Jo-Jo!" (Editors note: Thanks to Brookfield's David B. Thornton and Joanie Stinson, Phoenix Zoo's Tawny Carlson, and Los Angeles Zoo’s Susie Kasielke for this bit of April Fool's whimsy.) Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust Breeding and Conservation of Endangered Species Summer School 1987 (August 1-22, 1987) The course is aimed at zoo staff and students who wish to further their interests in conservation and in breeding of endangered species in captivity. This year's course will be on the behavior, reproductive biology and conservation of endangered species. The program is intensive and includes lectures and discussions, practical instruction with zoo staff, and research, preparation and presentation of individual projects using Trust facilities for behavioral observation, laboratory investigation, record research and reference material. Course Directors: Dr. Roger Avery, Senior Lecturer in Zoology, University of Bristol; Dr. Simon Beader, Senior Lecturer in Anthropology, Oxford Polytechnic, England; and the Trust's Training Officer, Dr. David Waugh. Residential course fee: approximately $830.00 (US) Further details and application forms are available from: Summer School Coordinator, Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust, Trinity, Jersey, Channel Islands, British Isles. Closing date is 30 April 1987. 113 Evaluating Forage Fed to Exotic Animals By Charlotte Kirk Animal Health Technician Kansas City Zoological Gardens Kansas City, MO Making sure that the food we feed our captive animals is of good quality is part of our job as zookeepers. Admittedly, it is not so difficult to determine when milk is sour, fruit is rotten, or meat is spoiled; but it can be difficult to determine the quality of the hay we feed. Since hay makes up approximately 75% of our hoofstock's total diet, it's important that it be of good quality. It has been documented that East African herbivores spend the majority of the day foraging. The giraffe spends 68% of its day feeding (Leuthold, 1978) , the elephant 74% (Van Soest, 1982), and the rhino 50% (Owen-Smith, 1973). Most other exotic ruminants spend 50- 70% of the day foraging in their natural habitat. In captivity, these animals depend on hay as their major source of energy. If that source is not of good quality, problems may be encountered. Certainly we have all had to deal with poor quality hay at one time or another. Often times it's difficult to assess the quality of hay. So to make life easier, here are a few tips that may strengthen your ability to tell a good bale of hay from a bad one. Both legume and grass havs should have fine stems and plenty of leaves. If legume hay looks more like a pile of sticks, due to lack of leaves, it was probably put up too late. Leaf loss means major nutrient loss. As forage matures, quality declines due to increased stem to leaf ratios, increased fiborousness, translocation of nutrients, and weathering (Gesshe & Walton, 1981). Nutrient value declines since stems are more fiborous, are 8% less digestible, and contain 6% less protein than leaf tissue (McCallum, 1983). Check for weeds and foreign objects in the hav. More of these mean less desirable forage materials. Many weeds can be toxic to the animals we feed. Cocklebur (Xanthium spp.) , ergots (Claviceps spp.) , morning glories (Ipomoea spp.) , and mustard weeds (Thlaspi arvense) are just a few of the weeds that are toxic to most animals, especially swine. Jimsonweed (Datura spp.) and nightshades (Solarium spp.) are weeds commonly found in hay that produce powerful toxins (Kirk, 1983). Familiarizing yourself with toxic plants can help you to recognize these potential health hazards. Foreign objects to look for can include anything from pieces of baling wire and nails to insects. The insect most famous for causing problems in equines is the blister beetle. This small striped insect is commonly found in alfalfa hay. The toxicity of blister beetles is due to the cantharidin found in their body fluid (Oehme, 1983). Cantharidin is a severe irritant that produces vesicles (or blisters) in the digestive tract when ingested. When this material is absorbed, it is rapidly excreted through the kidneys, causing damage to the urinary system. Depending on the number of beetles consumed, the equid may show mild to severe signs of toxicity which may even lead to death. Note the color of vour hav. Although a bright green color is often a sign of good hay, it is not the most accurate sign of quality. Sometimes a bale of hay may be sun bleached on one side but full of nutrients when it's opened. You can sniff out mold and dust. Temperature and moisture are the factors that most affect the growth of mold. Approximately fifteen species of Penicillium and Aspergillus thrive in hay stored between 25 -35 degrees C (77-95 degrees F) and 75-90% relative humidity. This can be a severe problem in the warmer summer months in many parts of the country. Young animals of all species are most susceptible to mold toxins (Berrier, 1977). If there is a blue-gray cloud of dust when you separate a flake of hay, and you come away gasping and sneezing, you can bet that hay is full of mold that could easily cause respiratory and circulatory disturbances in the animal you are feeding. 114 EVALUATING FORAGE FED TO EXOTIC ANIMALS, Continued Texture is also important in assessing the quality of hav. Good hay is soft and springy. Bristled and clumped hay is usually of poor quality. Lift the bale. If it feels like a ton of bricks, it is more than likely a block of mold. Heavy bales can also mean wet bales which besides being excellent growth medias for mold, usually are lacking in digestible energy. Obviously no hay dealer is going to allow you to be turned loose opening every bale, but it is wise to crack open at least two or three. Look for the obvious factors that determine quality: leafiness, color, texture, moisture, and the presence of foreign objects. Of course, we can't predict the quality of our hay, but we can control what we feed by careful and serious inspection on a daily basis. References Berrier, H. 1977. Animal Sanitation and Disease Prevention, p. 68. Gesshe, R. and Walton, A., 1981. J. of Range Momt. 34:42 Kirk, R., 1983. Current Veterinary Therapy III, pp. 473-474. Leuuthold, W. and Leuthold, B., 1978. African Ungulates, pp. 21-26. McCullum, T., 1983.. Oklahoma State University Ag. Exp. Sta., No. 2657. Oehme, F., 1983. Current Therapy in Equine Medicine, pp. 588-590. Owen-Smith, N., 1980. Dynamic Changes in Savanna Ecosystems. Walker and Huntley (eds.) CSIF, Pretoria. Van Soest, P.J., 1982. Nutritional Ecology of the Ruminant, pp. 325-336. The Collaboration of the Keeper and Veterinarian in the Chemical Restraint of Great Apes bv Hand Syringe Injection By P.T. Robinson, M. S., D. V. M. Jennings Center for Zoological Medicine Zoological Society of San Diego San Diego, CA It is frequently possible for the experienced zoo veterinary clinician to deliver chemical restraint drugs to chimpanzees, orangutans and gorillas by hand injection through caging bars. The technique which is described below has been successfully used in great apes at the San Diego Zoo in dozens of cases. This method has advantages in preventing some potential injuries from the use of projectile darts and may reduce the excitment produced by such procedures. The basic approach used for all chemical restraint procedures is to reduce the excitement factor to all degrees possible. While difficult to accomplish, personnel are encouraged to carry out their daily work in as normal a fashion as possible. Extraneous staff are deterred from interacting with patients. In most instances, the segregation from cohorts and restriction of food and water signals some wariness in the patient. This level of concern is readily heightened if extra employees, loud talking, and the loading and conspicuous assembly of equipment are permitted. Ketamine HCI was the primary restraint agent used in all cases. Concentrations up to 200 mg/ml, using sterile water for injection for reconstitution of lyophilized product, were employed in the larger apes with no apparent problems at the injection sites. The perifemoral musculature was used most frequently as the target zone for the injection, although in larger individuals, the perihumeral muscle mass also was employed. Some knowledge of the patients' potential reactions to novel stimulae is valuable. A great ape with previous experiences of this type may readily associate the current scenario with those of the past and become apprehensive. The cooperation of a keeper with whom the animal has gained trust has important counterbalancing effects. The following techniques have been used successfully in many cases: 1 . Avoid undue attention to the patient by eye contact and bodily actions. Appear to be on a mission unrelated to the individual in question. 2. Socialize with the keeper and with other apes in the vicinity, reserving your greeting to the patient and allowing time for the patient to adapt to your presence. 3. The position of your hands is frequently of interest to an ape in this circumstance. Vary the visibility of both hands, holding one then the other, then both behind your back. Convince the individual that you are not concealing an object from its view. 4. If possible, establish physical contact with the patient. A knowledge of the patient's personality and the risk of this maneuver should be judged. 5. Since food has been witheld, some individuals may at this point express some interest in food objects; this interest may be stimulated by your peeling and eating a piece of fruit. Appear to have no intention of offering a morsel, rather wait for some evidence of interest. 6. At some point it is now necessary to prepare a syringe for hand injection. A useful method is to fashion a holster which may be inserted into a back pocket consisting of a plastic Monoject® - type syringe case. A luer-type syringe must be used and an 18 ga., 3.75 cm. needle is satisfactory. Use a syringe larger than necessary for ease of handling and to shorten the piston stroke required for injection. The needle cover is removed before the syringe is placed in the holster. 116 The Collaboration of the Keeper and Veterinarian in the Chemical Restraint of Great Apes bv Hand Syringe Injection, Continued 7. When reapproaching the patient, prevent the syringe from being sighted. Reestablish the confidence that your hands are empty by the procedure described in item 3. 8. At this point the cooperation of a familiar keeper comes into play. The novelty of your presence is, hopefully, diminished and the interaction of the keeper at this time becomes a distraction from your presence. 9. The keeper may be able to encourage the patient into an injectable position either by interacting verbally or physically or with the use of a small morsel of fruit. 10. When the opportunity presents itself, there can be little hesitation to achieve a good I.M. injection. A continuous verbal dialogue with the keeper to position the patient is important. Position of the animal is important for a successful hand injection. 1 1 . When the opportunity is close, it is essential to retrieve the loaded syringe from the holster and have it in hand; using the keeper or a cage divider as a temporary sight barrier for this move is often necessary. 12. Indicate to the keeper assisting you that your move is imminent; this will allow for any small positional adjustment on his part to remain out of reach of the patient, from interfering with your move, and to remain safe from the loaded syringe in hand. 13. Finally, it may be helpful in some cases to obstruct the vision of the patient by blocking with a hand the view between its eyes and the syringe hand, simultaneously with the injection itself. In dozens of variations played out in this manner, no injuries of personnel have resulted. At the time of the injection, all attention seemed focused on the discomfort at the injection site rather than directed at the persons present. The animals have invariably been forgiving of the keeper for his part in the deception. The procedure described will usually occupy no more than 10-15 minutes if it is to be successful. ® Monoject Syringe, Monoject DW of Sherwood Medical, St. Louis, MO 631 03 9 Information Please Help! I need any information or information sources regarding Black Kites (Mulvis migrans) also known as Common Kites and Pariah Kites. Also any information on brain damage due to emaciation in raptors. Personal experience on the latter would be great. Please contact Karen Brown at 4316 Guilford Ave., Livermore, CA 94550. Due to the opening of our new elephant enclosure and plans to breed these magnificant animals, we would like to gain the assistance of other zoos which have both breeding and non-breeding herds of elephants, in the dietary needs of their elephants, as to what types of hay and supplements they receive and the amounts. This information would be gratefully appreciated. Please send to: Chief Supervisor, Taronga Zoo, P.O. Box 20, Mosman 2088, New South Wales, Australia. Book Review Houghton Mifflin Co., 1983 2 Park St., Boston, MA 02108 231 pages Hardbound $9.95 ARNJE the Darling Starling By Margarete Sigl Corbo & Diane Marie Barras Review by Tom Aversa AAZK Metro Boston Zoos W. D. Stone Memorial Zoo Stoneham,MA Arnie the Darling Starling is a well-written account of a woman who takes a nestling starling into her home and forms a very strong bond of love with the bird. The story is always entertaining, sometimes heartwarming, and only occasionally does it get bogged down in anthropomorphic excesses. This is definitely a book to read if you like "cute animal stories", although it can be enjoyed by anyone who has ever owned a pet, or taken in a stray animal. Amie comes into Margarete Corbo's life when he falls out of his nest which is under the eaves of her home in Texas. After several unsuccessful attempts at replacing him in the nest, she decides to try to raise him. Margarete is certainly not the scientific type, but she manages with Amie by using a combination of trial and error and homespun notions. Corn, steak and orange juice are the mainstays of this starling's diet. As an adult, the bird is so thoroughly imprinted, that he shows no inclination to return to the wild, so he is given status as one of the family, along with her three cats. The story of Amie is interesting in many ways. The most endearing trait of this starling was his ability to reproduce human speech. Many people do not realize that these birds are in the family of birds (Sturnidae) which includes some of the best "talkers" such as Myna birds. Arnie developed quite a vocabulary, and had a knack for linking words and phrases into meaningful statements. Margarete and Arnie touch many peoples' lives and undergo many experiences in this short book. A drug addict, a Vietnamese refugee, a pesticide-poisoned sparrow, and Margarete's own grandson are all brought into the story, and affected by Arnie, in one way or another. It does get a little carried away at times, but it still holds the reader's interest. Although Arnie the Darling Starling is certainly not a treatise on avian behavior, it is entertaining, and does provide some insight into human /animal interactions. KEEPER'S AEERT Felid Research and Conservation Interest Group I would like to organize an interest group whose purpose would be to share information from conferences, symposia, and ongoing research among individuals interested in felid research and conservation. Additional activities could be the generation of felid and felid-related bibliography, a periodic literature update, the generation of a quarterly newsletter, and a directory of interested individuals. If you have a sincere interest in participating in such a group, please send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Gail E. Foreman, Department of Zoology, OSU, 1735 Neil Ave., Columbus, OH 43210. Zoo Trivia Exchange Sought Collector of Zoo Trivia - patches, postcards, guide books, decals and so on , in fact anything zoo- related - would be most interested to hear from others with similar interests, with a view to exchanging items, ideas or whatever. If interested, please drop a line to Phil King, Assiniboine Park Zoo, 2355 Corydon Ave., Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3P OR5. 118 MNlFilBiKIEIE W MOO, ODD® DDK Elio PO (D cb H CD [b @ cr 3 *8 01*2 N5 5 S’ « 8N.3 ~ O o 0) 0 5 •— > 2: r *1 S* o CD a £ P* ft H o ►d P an Association Second Class L V R. 1 C S BY Q._CLAP^V, LELTER}J^U ANIMAL KEEPERS' FORUM. 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606 Executive Editor: Alice Miser June 1987 Managing Editor: Susan Chan Volume Fourteen Associate Editor: Ron Ringer Number Six Animal Keepers' Forum (ISSN 0164-9531) is a monthly journal of the American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc., 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606. Five dollars of each membership fee goes toward annual publication costs of Animal Keepers' Forum . Second Class postage paid at Topeka, KS. Postmaster: Please send address changes to: American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. National Headquarters, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606 Barbara Manspeaker, Administrative Secretary BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jean Hromadka, San Diego Wild Animal Park President Escondido, CA 92025 Frank B. Kohn, National Zoological Park Vice President Washington, DC 20008 Oliver Claffey, Metro Toronto Zoo, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Susan M. Barnard, Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, GA Kerry Hoffman, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Tucson, AZ COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS - PROJECT HEADS £anf£.rgnce BqqK Committee, Phil Pennock, Woodland Park Awards... Committee Rachel Rogers, Miami Metrozoo Book Review Coordinator Kathy Sucharitakul, Akron Zoo Legislative Action Committee Becky Rogers, Topeka Zoo Ifllf.mjaliQn.al. Affairs Coordinators - Melba Shields, Calgary Zoo (west) Staff.. Exchange Elandra Aum, Woodland Park Zoo Pi-QsraflL-LikmEx Debbie Jackson, Litde Rock Zoo JA h-ilij.L- J)i.‘^igjJL_lorm Diane Forsyth, Akron Zoo Keeper Accommodations List Oliver Claffey, Metro Toronto Zoo Keeper Training Videotape. Wayne Buchanan, Woodland Park Zoo Keeper Training Materials Identification Rosemary Jalink, Mill Mountain Zoo Reference Search Liz McLaughlin, Roger Williams Park Zoo Jenny Rentfrow, Mason, MI Keeper Education .Committee Pat Sammarco, Lincoln Park Zoo Research/Grants Committee Kaci Thompson, NZP Public Education Committee Jay Jasan, Staten Island Zoo A.A.Z-K— History Committee Art Goodrich, San Diego Zoo National Zoo (east) and Pam McDougall, Animal Data Transfer Farm Bemie Feldman, Burnet Park Zoo Membership Directory Pat Sammarco, Lincoln Park Zoo Diet Notebook Susan Bunn, Minnesota Zoo Biological Yaiues/Gestation. Greater S. F. Bay Area Chapter Lib r ar y-R&smuxea Kaci Thompson, NZP Infant Development Notebook Steven Wing, Milwaukee Zoo No.rni.n,aliofliL-& Elections. Janet McCoy, Washington Park Zoological Gardens CQ PIRECXORS REGIONAL COORDINATORS States East of the Mississippi - Diane Krug, White Oak Plantation, Yulee, FL States West of Mississippi - Debbera Stecher, Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle, WA Individual Regional Coordinators and the states under their oversight are listed elsewhere in each issue of AKF. This month's cover art was designed by Leslie- Ann Drummond, Acting Keeper at the Calgary Zoo, Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The design, featuring the lyrcis of AAZK’s "official songwriter" Oliver Claffey, Metro Toronto Zoo, was so unique we didn't want to have to reduce it down to fit a standard AKF cover format, so we opted to run it vertically at nearly 100% original size. We could think of no more fitting way to honor National Zoo and Aquarium Month than to feature Leslie's cover art which expresses the feelings of professional keepers everywhere. Thanks, Leslie-Ann and Ollie! SCOOPS AND SCUTTLEBUTT Bids for 1989 AAZK National Conference Now Being Accepted To all AAZK Chapters: Bids for the 1989 National AAZK Conference may be submitted any time prior to the 1987 National Conference in Milwaukee. Any chapter may submit a bid for the national conference or a regional conference. As stated in the AAZK By-laws and Constitution, all bids must be approved by the Board of Directors before the chapter may begin advertising the conference. Bids should include a letter of intent to host the conference from the chapter president. Support letters of approval from the zoo's director as well as from the mayor or other relevant persons or agencies (e.g. zoological society, city council, convention center, etc.) should also be included. The original letters and four copies of each letter should be sent to the AAZK Vice President for distribution to the Board. The Board of Directors serves the AAZK membership to advise local chapters about conference plans. The Board's experience with national and regional conferences is tapped to give conference planners the best opportunity for a successful conference. The Conference Book Committee provides a complete outline and summary of conference planning. National Conference bid presentations are made at the annual national conference. If two or more chapters bid for a national conference, the attending membership will vote on the site following bid presentation early in the national conference. Questions about procedure or planning should be directed to Phil Pennock, Conference Book Committee Chairman or the current AAZK Vice President. A Report on the Membership Directory from Pat Sammarco The AAZK Board has decided that the Membership Directory will be published biannually and will, from this point forward, take advantage of the computer at National Headquarters to produce it. This year will be the first year skipped in the new plan. It has been a great deal of work producing the Directory in the past, but just as in our profession, has been exciting and satisfying. Special thanks go to typographer Rick Ruth who has been providing the expertise and facilities to have the book artfully typset at a more than reasonable, actually cheap, price. Rick has also shown his support of AAZK by maintaining a Contributing membership. In the past, memberships have been handled at National Headquarters at the World Famous Topeka Zoo by Barbara Manspeaker, who forwarded directory information to Pat Sammarco. Pat entered, or rearranged, or corrected, or added to each member's file card as members joined, moved, changed their listings, or let memberships expire. Interesting facts became apparent 161 Scoops and Scuttlebutt. Continued when handling this information. Keepers are nomads, some with as many as five or six address changes per year. Keepers change runs and zoos fairly often, and occasionally get promoted. Associate members become Keepers. Some Keepers even form pairs. It will be difficult to part with all this insight into fellow Keepers' lives. However, getting rid of the 36 inches worth of file cards, and the three file boxes it takes to hold them will certainly give me more desk space. Entering the information that members provided was a matter of going to RTF Graphics, Rick's office, and assiting Rick, or doing some of the keyboarding to enter, change and delete information stored on discs, using a computerized typesetting machine. At production time, the final entries would be made, then Rick would format all the pages, and we would update the special pages that guide members to administrators, projects and legends to the book. All the cards would then be marked as to the page of entry, reshuffled into alphabetical order, and another couple trips to Rick would have the index set. The computer system at National Headquarters should now be ablte to handle the Membership Directory, with little loss of quality and a lot less mailing. I appreciate all the help that all the members have given over the years in adding their interests and work areas to the other statistics entered in the Directory. I feel that we will continue to have a good guide to communicating with each other directly in professional matters. (From the AAZK Board of Directors: There is no possible way the Association can thank Pat Sammarco for her tireless efforts in producing the Membership Directory over the past years. Her dedication to the profession of zookeeping was tested many times by last-minute entries and corrections, many late-night wrap-up sessions, unexpected delays in production and the accompanying hassles and frustrations. To Pat , on behalf of the entire AAZK membership, our sincere thanks and gratitude for a job well done) Important Diet Note Book Address Change - Please Take Note! Garret Glodek, Coordinator for the collection of Fish diets for the upcoming AAZK Diet Notebook has moved to a new facility and those wishing to submit fish diets should take note of the new address. Garret is no longer at the South Horida Aquarium but has moved to the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, North 54th and North Pearl, Tacoma, WA 98328. Please send all Fish diet information to Garret at the Point Defiance address. Coordinators for other sections of the Diet Notebook are as follows: Mammals: Susan Bunn, Minnesota Zoological Garden, 12101 Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Apple Valley, MN 55124; Birds: Kelly Westbrook, Little Rock Zoological Garden, #1 Jonesboro Dr., Little Rock, AR 72205; Reptiles: Brint Spencer, Minnesota Zoological Gardens (addresss above); Invertebrates: Susan Kenney, John G. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 South Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, IL 60605. The Diet Notebook Committee hopes to have the publication available by the Milwaukee Conference, so if you haven't sent in your diets to be included in this reference work. Do So Now! 162 * Editorial Comment A Hearty congratulations to AAZ"K (Historian Art Qoodrich and all those Sleepers from tfte San ' Diego Zoo, San Diego "Wild AnimaC (Part and Sea "World who Helped make tHe AAZ9£s 20tH Anniversary founder's "Weekend sucH a wonderful event! Approximately 140 keepers gathered from (May StH to 8tH in beautiful San Diego to Honor tHe founders of our Association. "What a great way to kick, off AAZKj 20tH anniversary year! The ’" Weekend" (and all of you keepers know that weekends do not necessarily fall on Saturdays and Sundays!) began with an Icebreaker on "Tuesday evening, complete with a Highly successful Chinese Auction and a 50's and 60' s Disco Dance. "Wednesday and Thursday found the delegates split into groups for visits to either the San Diego Zoo or the "Wild Animal (Part "Workshops on Zoonotic Diseases, (Pathology, (Reptiles, Condors and Cranes and "Teaching the Touch" with Linda Tellington- Jones offered attendees a wide variety of options as to how to spend their days. The weather was beautiful both days for the outside activities and everyone agreed that a great time was had by all! On Thursday night the founder's (Banquet was held with four of AAZdCs founders in attendance: Dick.Sweeney, (Rpd Thomas, "Ken "Willingham and Conrad (frays on. Dennis (Melvin was unable to attend and "Walt (Bromley and Carle Pyle are deceased, (fathered participants enjoyed a sumptous buffet, heard a keynote address by Dr. "Warren Thomas, Director of the Los Angeles Zoo, bid against their peers in a highly successful auction and finally toasted the assembled AAZ"K founders with champagne. During the program AAZ"K President Jean (Hromadka presented the founders with Distinguished Service Awards, engraved pewter paperweights bearing the rhino logo and AAZ"K patches encased in Incite. It was a most memorable evening and noting the attendees reluctance to call it a night, it was an evening we all wanted to go on and on. Our pride in AAZ"K tvas showing and we wanted to share it xvith everyone! friday dazvned clear and sunny and many of the participants opted to remain in San Diego for a post- conference tour of Sea "World. The staff at Sea "World made all of us feel most welcome and treated us to behind-the-scenes tours of many areas of this unique facility from Penguin "Encounter to the off-exhibit Animal Care unit. The '"Weekend", though perhaps more relaxed than a traditional conference, proved once again the exjstance of that special comradery between dedicated zoo professionals. Shop Talk, was plentiful in the (Hospitality "Rpom where videotapes included highlights of the "Winnipeg ZooOlympics. (Hew friendships were made and past ones renewed. The '"Weekend" went by all too quickly. "We all departed to our various destinations with new and greater enthusiasm for our profession and for the Association which brings us together. It is a great beginning to our 20th Anniversary "year and the celebration is sure to continue in this fine tradition at (Milwaukee. If you have never attended an AAZ"K Conference, make 1987 the year to do so -- Join us to celebrate the growth of our Association and in our plans for a future Dedicated to Professional Animal Care. - —S.C . 163 Births & Hatchings Scott Carter reports the following from Sedgwick County Zoo, Wichita, KS: In the herpetarium so far this year there have been 9 clutches of oriental firebelly frogs (about 40 froglets), one black and green poison dart froglet, 3 Red-footed tortoises, and 15 Reticulated pythons. SCZ and BG has also been nominated for the Bean Award for breeding Aquatic Caecilians The Jungle had 0.0.3 capybaras, one acouchi and Golden Lion Tamarin twins on exhibit, as well as hatching 10 Hottenton teal, one NeNe goose, and 2 roul-rouls in the incubators. Pygmy goats are the animal of note in the Farms, with 15 kids produced by our five females, including one set of quints being reared by the mother. Also in the farms, this year marked the first pure karakul lambs (1 .2) and 6.6 Ossabow Island Swine. The Zoo's first birth of Red Ruffed Lemurs took place in the holding barn with the female producing triplets and proving to be an excellent mother. In Apes and Man a very notable birth occured on 24 April when "Holly", a chimpanzee on loan from the Denver Zoo, gave birth to her third offspring and surprised everyone by showing excellent maternal care. Her first two infants were rejected at birth. Mother and baby are on exhibit with the group (2.2 adults and 1.1 youngsters). Keepers report that not only is "Holly" caring for the infant, but she has become less of a "loner" with the group. Besides the usual collared peccaries (1.1), Patagonian Cavies (0.0.3), and Guanacos (2.1 ) in the Pampas/Outback, this year there have been 9 Darwin's Rheas hatched (4 DNS), 2 Scarlet Macaws, one Lesser Sulfur-crested cockctoo (DNS), one Salmon-crested cockatoo (DNS), one Plush-capped jay (DNS), 5 Inca Tern (4 DNS) and 4 rainbow lorikeets. The Double-wattled Cassowaries have started laying again, for only the second time, but it is too early to tell how many of the eggs are fertile. All the eggs are being pulled for artificial incubation. In the Veldt, we had our first second-generation Fringe-eared Oryx, 1.1 (1.0 DNS), and 1.0 Damara Zebra (DNS). The Breeding Farm is very pleased to announce the first White-napped Crane eggs have been laid, and all six are being artificially incubated. The Lappet-faced vultures laid one egg (a first for the Zoo and a rarity in captivity), but unfortunately it proved to be infertile. Keeper's Alert - "Founder's Weekend" Mugs and T-Shirts Still Available For those you you who were unable to attend the 20th Anniversary "Founder Weekend" in May, the special commemorative T-Shirts and Coffee Mugs featuring the winning anniversary designs are still available. The coffee mugs are $5.00 each. The Limited Edition Conference T-shirts are $15.00 each and the regular Conference T-shirt is available for $8.00 each. These prices include shipping. Watch next month's AKF when we will publish the winning logo designs from "Founder’s Weekend". Orders may be placed through Art Goodrich, Mammal Dept., San Diego Zoo, Box 551, San Diego, CA 92112. 164 Coming Events First International Children's Zoo Symposium July 1-4, 1987 Philadelphia, PA Symposium will focus on History and Philosophy, Design and Learning, and Animal Collection and Purpose. There will be pre- and post-conference trips to the Bronx and Baltimore Zoos plus much more. Keeper participation is strongly urged. For further information contact: Robert Callahan, Curator of Children's Zoo, Philadelphia Zoo, 34th & Girard, Philadelphia, PA 19104 (215) 243-1100, Ext. 300. The Philadelphia AAZK Chapter will reimburse the $100 registration fee for a keeper attending this conference. The recipient will be chosen in a random drawing on 1 July. "Applying Behavioral Research to Zoo Animal Management" July 18-25, 1987 Seattle, WA Hosted by the Woodland Park Zoological Gardens. For more information contact: William Karesh, DVM, Animal Health Dept., Woodland Park Zoo, 5500 Phinney Ave. North, Seattle, WA 98103. The Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles/ Herpetologists League Annual Meeting August 9-15, 1987 Veracruz, Mexico Hosted by the Institute of Biology of the National Autonomous University of Mexico. For further information contact: Richard Vogt, Estacion de Biologia Tropical "Los Tuxtlos", Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Apart. Post 94, San Andres Tuxtla, Veracruz, Mexico. Conference on Exotic Animal Husbandry II August 13-15, 1987 Monroe, LA To be held at Holidome (Holiday Inn), Hwy. 165 By-pass. For more information contact: R. A. Hahn, Zoological Consortium, Inc., Thurmont, MD 21788 (301) 271-7488. The Annual Conference of the Association of Zoological Horticulture August 17-21, 1987 Calgary, Alberta Held at the Calgary Zoo. For more information contact: Don Peterkin, Horticulturist, Calgary Zoo, Botanical Gardens & Prehistoric Park, Box 3036, Station B, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2M 4R8 (403) 265-9310 or Ted Kerr, Hort/Grounds, Columbus Zoological Gardens, P.O. Box 400, Powell, OH 43065 (614) 889-9471. 165 Coming Events, Continued The 4th International Wildlife Film-makers Symposium Sept. 23-27, 1987 Bath, Avon, England For further information contact: Anne Fenton (Symposium Organizer), BKSTS, 547-549 Victoria House, Vernon Place, London WCIB 4DJ, England. 1987 AAZK National Conference October 4-8, 1987 Milwaukee, WI Hosted by the Milwaukee Zoo AAZK Chapter. Look for registration/accommodation forms plus other conference information in the tan insert in this issue of AKF. A post-conference trip to visit Chicago's Brookfield and Lincoln Park Zoos and the Shedd Aquarium is planned. Please complete the Post-Conference interest form on Page 147 of the May 1987 issue of AKF and send to Pat Sammarco at Lincoln Park as soon as possible. The Eight Annual Elephant Management Workshop November 11-14, 1987 Asheboro, NC Hosted by the North Carolina Zoological Park. For information and registration packet, contact: Elly Walters, North Carolina Zoological Park, Route 4, Box 83, Asheboro, NC 27203 (919) 879-5606. Interest Groups Forming Cheetah interest Group The time has come! The knowledge and experience of cheetah keepers and enthusiasts will be the basis for the Cheetah Interest Group now forming. This group will provide an additional source of information on cheetah husbandry, breeding management and strategies and hand-rearing techniques. Other points of interest, felt to be valuable information by you, will also be welcomed. Newsletters and an annual conference are planned and will be based on your input. Interested? Please contact: Adrion Haft, Louisville Zoo, P.O. Box 37250, Louisville, KY 40233. Phone: (502) 459-2181 . Fetid. ResearchjB& £QnsematiQn interest Group I would like to organize an interest group whose purpose would be to share information from conferences, symposia, and ongoing research among individuals interested in felid research and conservation. Additional activities could be the generation of a felid and felid-related bibliography, a periodic literature update, a quarterly newsletter, and a directory of interested individuals. If you have a sincere interest in participating in such a group, please send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Gail E. Foreman, Department of Zoology, OSU, 1735 NeilAve., Columbus, OH 43210. 166 Quality exotic animal diets SPECTRUM Fixed formuli balanced formulation • Economical When you need a complete line of high-quality dry and frozen animal diets for your feeding program, call Animal Spectrum. NEBRASKA BRAND h \ SPECTRUM BROOD-RITE HEATERS Frozen feline diets Frozen bird of prey diets Frozen canine diet Chunk and chopped horsemeat, hearts, livers, rib, shank, and knuckle bones The original gluten-free primate diets. Banana flavored primate, 15% protein Banana flavored primate, Pro-Plus 25% protein Omnivore dry Polar Bear dry Ratite dry Hoofstock supplement, with Selenium Bulbless heaters— nothing to break. Safe around all animals and bedding material. Even heat distribution in 240, 500, or 750 wattages. One call does it all ££ 1-800-228-4005 In Nebraska, call collect 402/488-6492 Animal Spectrum, Inc. Box 6307 Lincoln, NE 68506-0307 Watch this space for what's new for zoos International Affairs Committee - Foreign Keeper Sponsorship Program BiJ Pam McDougall and Melba Shields AAZK International Affairs Co-Directors This program was created when one of our international members working in India suggested that individual members or chapters active within the AAZK organization help sponsor the cost of AAZK international membership fees for animal personnel working in Third World countries. These individuals eligible for this program can range from zoo director to veterinarian to zoo keeper to zoo educator or even a volunteer. The only requirement we insist upon is that those individuals who apply must come from an animal facility located in parts of the world where pay is extremely low and conditions are substandard. International fees to join AAZK are $25, but since it takes months even if you send our magazine first class, an added $10-15 to cover air mail cost for one year would help improve the service. To sponsor an Indian keeper would cost $48 a year and $36 for a South American keeper. Those individuals or chapters who sponsor someone should also send a variety of educational aides to their adopted keeper and be sure to request information about their responsibilities and a little personal history. The goal of this program is to help improve the zoos in Third World countries by enhancing the zoo keeping profession by making available to those sponsored a variety of educational aids which present new and improved methods of caring for exotic animals in captivity. We not only learn about foreign zoos but we walk away with a deeper understanding of different cultures. Through our friendly relations we could also help strengthen ties between our different countries. Once a keeper is adopted, be prepared to renew their membership from one year to the next. We need to continue our support for those less fortunate and try and encourage them to strive for excellence as an animal keeper through the continuous practice of acquiring better zoo keeping skills. We have had a letter from one of the adoptees who sounds very excited to be in the program. It is his enthusiasm which may help to motivate and educate his fellow keepers. Presently we have eight individuals from three different continents already sponsored by AAZK chapters and individuals located throughout North America. We need to place four more foreign animal people which will probably take little effort to accomplish. Please give serious consideration to becoming a sponsor. If you or your chapter are interested, write one of the IAC co-directors for further information on the program and the keepers on the waiting list. Melba Shields - East Coordinator Territory - Europe, Africa, Mideast and South America Address: Melba Shields, IAC - East Small Mammal House - DOM National Zoological Park Washington, DC 20008 Pam McDougall - West Coordinator Territory - Asia, Australia, New Zealand Address: Pam McDougall, IAC-West Calgary Zoological Gardens Box 3036, Station B Calgary, Alberta Canada T2M 4R8 168 Exhibit Design Checklist (Editor's note: The mammal keepers at the Toledo Zoo have been given the opportunity to have input into the design phase of a renovation of the facility's old elephant house into a new, modern primate complex (monkeys & prosimians). Senior Mammal Keeper Bruce Clark wrote the following checklist with input from other keepers, staff and guidance from the mentioned literature. Bruce and other Toledo staff members feel the checklist should aid them in determining what the eventual exhibit will involve and how it should function (covering all the bases). It is published here for your reference and information. AKF hopes to receive further reports from Bruce on the renovation and the usefulness of this checklist in avoiding those dreaded "design problems".) I. Animal Needs II. Keeper/Staff Needs III. Public Needs IV. Construction Practicality/Feasibility I. Animal Needs A. Adequate Space 1 . Flight distance from public met 2. Escape routes (dominant/subordinate interactions) 3. Seclusion/retreat areas (from public, staff, other animals) 4. Spatial requirements met for adequate social interactions (vertical and horzitontal space) 5. Natural range or territory size taken into account 6. Access to outside (if practical) 7. Adequate size of off-exhibit holding areas B. Correct Animal Numbers 1. Sex ratios 2. Overall natural group size 3. Compatible species (when mixed) C. Exhibit Correct with Regard to Specific Species 1 . Substrate (concrete, sand, gravel, bark, rocks, chip, turf, plantings, etc.) 2. Furniture (trees, vines, shrubs, logs, etc.) 3. Texture (coarse, smooth, etc.) 4. Color 5. Pools, streams, falls 6. Locomotion taken into consideration 7. Adequate noise levels 8. Pelage grooming sites 9. Supplimentary heating 10. Resting sites (roosts, platforms, etc.) 11. Adequate natural cover 12. Circadian, lunar, yearly cycles 13. Daily habits 14. Yearly habits 15. Compatibility (with same species, with other non-related species) 16. Temperature (daily, yearly) 17. Lighting (daily, yearly) 18. Humidity (daily, yearly) 169 Exhibit Design Checklist. Continued 19. Aquatic chemistry (salinity, trace elements, suspended matter, pH, etc.) 20. Consideration for display behaviors (territory, mating, etc.) 21. Planting if appropriate 22. Aestivation and/or hybernaculum facilities D. Reproduction 1. Denning facilities 2. Maternity considerations 3. Hand-rearing locations and methods 4. Reintroduction of young E. Diet 1. Specific nutrition 2. Feeding stations ( elevated, spaced-out, etc.) 3. Water (location, accessibility, quality, quantity, etc.) 4. Method of feeding 5. Foraging opportunities and types of forage 6. Consideration for natural feeding behavior F. Animal Safety 1. Avoidance of trauma (slips, falls, entanglements, escapes, drownings, etc.) 2. Consideration for disasters (smoke, fire, electric shock, etc.) 3. Exhibit "substrate" toxicity II. Public Needs A. Education* B. Entertainment* C. Accessibility D. Ease of viewing E. Comfort (seating, railing, quiet, etc.) F. Naturalistic (real) impression G. Sensory stimulation H. Location of graphics I. Location of interactive exhibits J. Adequate space for public K. Flow of public L. Aesthetics of exhibit and surroundings *If C-L are accomplished, the others will follow. III. Keepers and Other Staff Needs A. Ease of cleaning 1. Accessibility 2. Methods 3. Routine (times per day, etc.) 4. Disinfection 5. Location of (hoses, spigots, doors, locks, etc.) B. Transferring of Animals (exhibit to holding, etc.) 1 . Ease of operation 2. Maneuverability C. Introductory Facilities Exhibit Design Checklist. Continued D. Adequate Off-Exhibit Holding E. Keeper Safety F. Veterinary Care 1. Squeeze facilities 2. Nursery facilities 3. Maternity facilities 4. Quarantine facilities 5 . Parasite control 6. Disease transmission problems G. Adequate Animal Viewing by Keepers H. Research Viewing I. Sufficient Work Space 1. Kitchen facilities adequate 2. Methods and storage of animal records J. Storage Space 1. Tools 2. Feeds K. Adequate Drainage L. Wate Removal M. Animal Escape Proofing and Containment N. Method for Individual Animal Recognition O. Feeding Methods 1. Accessibility to feed /forage sites 2. Methods (feeding intervals, locations, techniques, etc.) P. Manpower Requirements (number of keeper hours per day, etc.) Q. Consideration for Time Saving Ideas R. Consideration to Physical Qualities of Keepers (size, strength, etc.) IV. Construction A. Practicality B. Feasibility 1. Cost (initial investment plus additional long-term expenses) 2. Available materials 3. Wearing ability/ longevity C. Correct Barriers (size, construction, strength, layout, materials, etc.) D. Keeper Maintenance Considerations E. Maintenance Upkeep Considerations 1. Within zoo expertise 2. Accessibility 3. Scheduled maintenance plan 171 F. Utility Usage 1. Natural gas 2. Water 3. Electricity 4. Consideration to conservation of utilities G. Weather Proofing 1. Cold temperatures a. hose/pool antifreezing b. supplemental heating c. insulation 2. Warm temperatures a. supplemental cooling b. odor ventilation c. humidity manipulation Special thanks to Dr. Tim R., Glenous F., David J., Joanne T., and all the other various Toledo Zoo staff who helped with their critical review. References Fause, C., Rice, D. Design Handbook. Zoological Society of San Diego. Unpublished. Pery, Dean. Stewart. 1970. Program for the New Boston Zoo. Boston, MA., Benjamin Franklin Smith. Information Please We are searching for exhibit specimens of two types and would like help in locating any zoological facility that has surpluses. We would like 2.2 of breeding age, elephant shrews ( Elephantulus refescens) and 2.2, breeding age, African Spotted or Striped Grass Mice ( Lemnicomys striatus). We will negotiate any other ratios, ages, etc. Any information would be appreciated. Please contact Debbie Merritt, Zoo Department, New England Science Center, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester, MA 01604. If you have had an orangutan infant adopted by another orangutan, or have attempted this procedure at your zoo, please send any available information to: Gail Bruner, Los Angeles Zoo, 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90027. KEEPER'S ALERT Riverbanks Zoo AAZK Chapter is having a special sale of its packaged sets of greeting cards. The sets include 16 blank cards (8 different animal designs) and 16 plain envelopes. The cost is only $3.50 per set. We sold a lot of these cards locally and think other AAZK members will enjoy them too. Send orders to: Pat Hook, 307 Augusta St., West Columbus, SC 29169. & 172 Reflections on Luama By Robert Berghaier, Senior Keeper Philadelphia Zoological Society Philadelphia, PA For those interested in the survival of animals in the wild, it is convenient to forget about the people who live alongside wildlife. It is the actions of this human element which will ultimately decide the fate of many of the world’s wild places and creatures. During a trip to a remote area of Zaire I saw firsthand the conflict in one small valley between the needs of an expanding human population versus a declining but vibrant wild fauna. I came to the Luama Valley of East Kivu province in the fall of 1984 to visit by friend Jim. Jim was a Peace Corps volunteer who was assigned to the valley with another American to assist a cattle ranching cooperative. It was Jim who, by talking to an old Belgian colonist in Goma, discovered the history of the Valley. Until the 1950’s the Luama Valley was a lush forested paradise. The area is a series of rolling hills with meandering streams, some with picturesque waterfalls. The soil is of volcanic origin, so it is very fertile. The hills and valleys are covered with a lush forest with a high canopy. The average elevation of Luama is about 5500 ft. The evenings and early mornings are cool and often foggy. The mornings and afternoons are warm and the humidity is low. It rains at least once a day for about an hour. During the rainy season, showers can last all day. On the whole it is an idyllic climate. Small herds of elephants were common here wandering through the valleys and hills. Cape buffalo, bushbuck, duiker, and forest hog grazed or rooted through the clearings opened by trees falls or by foraging elephants. Leopards were the principle predator. Good numbers of eastern lowland gorilla and chimpanzee were present. Black and white colobus and olive baboons were plentiful. The other species of primates included Congo blue monkeys (Cercopithecus mitis stuhlmanni ) and L Hoest guenons. The only human inhabitants were the Batwa pygmy s, a hunter/ gatherer society which lived in balance with the forest and the animals. The first major changes were implemented by Belgian ivory hunters. By 1960 all of the elephants in the area were eliminated. In the Luama Valley alone five tons of ivory were collected. Leopard hunting with snares came next, the pelts being used in the fur trade. Two Belgians, including one Jim befriended in Goma, started tea plantations and cleared large sections of forest. Men were needed to work the plantations, so outside workers were brought in. These men, mostly KiRawandan Bantus, brought along their families. More forest had to be cleared to grow food for this expanding population. These cultivators also hunted to supplement their diets. Large mammals were the primary targets. While the human population remained low, this hunting had little effect on wildlife numbers. Unfortunately, events occurring elsewhere in central Africa would change this status quo. In the early 60's the so-called "winds of change" would cross the Belgian Congo and the new nation of Zaire would be created. The resultant political instability caused the two Belgian planters to flee the Luama Valley. The workers, however, remained. Adding to their expanding numbers were Watusi cattle herders driven into Zaire due to tribal strife in the neighboring country of Rwanda. They settled in the Luama Valley with their herds of long horned ankole cattle. Cattle need pasture, so the process of forest clearance started by the KiRwandans was excellerated. The expanding human population of the valley also meant expanding hunting pressure. By the 70's the forest hogs, bushbuck and duikers were eliminated. The last of the valley’s leopards was snared. The last buffalo was speared when it took to hanging around the cattle herds. Even the local people realized that the buffalo was probably seeking companionship. With the larger mammals gone the hunting pressure turned to the primates. 173 Reflections on Luama. Continued When I reached the Luama Valley in November of 1984, the once lush continuous forest was broken up into small isolated patches. Now, 3/4's of the valley was either cattle pasture or shambas, the small plots used for farming. Some primates were still evident. Scattered groups of blue monkeys were often encountered. One group was located a short walk from Jim's back door. Each afternoon during my stay I would approach this group. I even managed to eventually photograph them a few times. They would eye me curiously at first, then slip away— all except for the largest, probably the lead male, who would bark at me until the group had moved off. Then he too would vanish into the forest. Once I went monkey watching with some of the local kids. They were excellent trackers. Their ears could pick out the soft calls that the monkeys would use to communicate while feeding. However, as soon as the primates spotted those little black faces, they ran off into the canopy. These animals obviously knew they were potential prey. All of the young male inhabitants of the vicinity carry slingshots. A good-sized rock shot from one can bring down a large bird or a small monkey. Someone should undertake a study one day on the effect of young boys with slingshots on local wildlife populations. No matter where you travel in the Third World you see these lethal weapons sticking out of back pockets. Jim once asked a local boy why they hunted, since there were lots of chickens and pigs to use for meat. His answer was, why should they pay for a chicken or a pig while free meat remained in the forest? Even the most ardent animal lover must admit that is a very logical and practical answer. Dogs and spears are used to hunt olive baboons in the valley. Baboons are very destructive when they raid the local shambas. Their behavior and the fact that they are primarily terrestrial means they are hunted with a passion. The number of baboons is dwindling rapidly. The screams of baboons while being pursued by hunters often echoed throughout the valley. Other primate species were caught by snare traps set at the base of limbs or trees. The only L Hoest guenon that Jim ever saw during his two year stay was caught in such a manner. Only twice during the duration of his tour did Jim see colobus. These monkeys are heavily hunted for their black and white pelts which bring a high price in nearby Goma. A small troop of chimps still remained. Chimpanzees are large, potentially dangerous animals, and the locals are terrified of them. They will only hunt them with guns. There are a few old hunting rifles located in the valley, but bullets are few and far between. This particular group of chimps causes extensive damage to the area's banana groves, a behavior not likely to endear them to the locals. I was guided to see this chimp group by some local men. At about 200 yards distance the chimps started that eardrum-splitting shriek that chimp keepers are all too familiar with. We closed the distance between us to 50 yards. I counted six animals, including one youngster, sitting on a branch looking at us. My local guides were keen on looking at the group with my binoculars, and they seemed as enthused about seeing the chimps as I was. While talking to some valley residents, I heard some hair- raising chimpanzee stories. Once , a crop raiding male chimp was speared. This animal pulled the spear from its body and chased after the offending villagers, shaft in hand. Once, a baby chimp was caught in a wood trap box. Its enraged mother ripped the trap from its moorings and carried it off with her baby inside. Even though the locals do not hunt chimps, outsiders do. Bored soldiers and policemen travel from Goma to the valley for a bit of sport. It is illegal to hunt chimps in the East Kivu, but since few people know of this restriction or even care, the number of chimps slowly dwindles. In contrast to the declining numbers of wildlife of other species, the gorillas of Luama are doing fairly well. A wealthy Zairean businessman who has extensive land holdings in the area has actually set aside the top of a steep mountain as a gorilla sanctuary. Several local men are paid by the land owner to watch over the gorillas. They told Jim and me that when the sanctuary was started 10 years previously, only 14 gorillas were found there. They now number over 30 and comprise two groups. Their mountain top refuge is unfortunately pitifully small and isolated from other forest remanants, so the gorillas cannot expand their range. One adult male has been driven out of the sanctuary by the other males and now resides in a small area of forest at the foot of the mountain. This male, with no chance of accumulating a 174 Reflections on Luama. Continued group of females for his own, takes out his frustration by charging local people who get too close to his patch of forest. Eventually, someone will be severely injured or perhaps killed, and a hunter will have to be dispatched to end this gorilla's lonely existence. I managed after a two-hour walk and a one-hour climb to see one of the gorilla groups. The slopes of the sanctuary were incredibly steep. We passed through a banana grove and the trackers showed me some of the fruit the gorillas had eaten the night before. Bananas are the main crop of the area. Ninety per cent of them are used for make pombe, a type of beer. I was surprised to learn later that much of the destruction of forest in Central Africa is due to clearing these areas so more pombe bananas can be grown. I find it personally ironic that the survival of much of that area's fauna is tied to beer production. Shortly after leaving the banana groves and entering the forest, we heard the loud scream of a very frightened gorilla. We cautiously moved through the dense growth. My guides spotted the gorillas long before I could make out their black bodies in the thick green foliage. I finally climbed a tree and spotted an adult female moving through the vegetation. I climbed down and the trackers said softly, "Toto, toto (babies)", and pointed to two young gorillas who sat on a log squatted on their heels watching us. In the background I could hear the short sharp coughs made by distressed gorillas. The guides then pointed out the lead male of the group. He was immense! I saw him from about 20 yards distance and could only see his head and upper torso. I observed mountain gorilla silverbacks in Rwanda a few weeks later, but not one of the three I saw approached this animal in size. He remains the largest gorilla I have ever seen in captivity or in the wild. I quickly noticed that he was very upset by our presence. He kept his lips pursed and kept turning his head when he caught us looking at him. That behavior, combined with the continuing vocalizations, convinced me that I was doing this group of gorillas no great favor by being there. After a few minutes I said that was enough and our group started down the mountain to leave the gorillas in peace. The Africans I was with must have thought I was crazy, or perhaps scared, for leaving after such a short period of time after such a long trek to find the gorillas. After seeing how calm habituated gorillas were in Rwanda when humans were present, I realized I made the right decision that day. The locals feared gorillas. Some believed that gorillas eat people, but the more knowledgeable ones correctly state that gorillas eat only vegetation. They also have a local tale which Jim scoffed at, but which I think may have a bit of truth. A Luama friend of Jim's told us that once a male gorilla tried to run off with the man's oldest child who was an infant at the time. This sounds farfetched unless you know how protective male gorillas are towards the infants in their group. I think it may be possible that a male gorilla may have trouble distinguishing, while under the stress of encountering people, whether a wailing little black infant is a baby gorilla or a human. I also have noticed captive gorillas pay close attention to very young human visitors. At any rate, the village's entire male population charged the gorilla, who fled before the infant came to any harm. I saw other wildlife during my stay at Luama. They included giant squirrels, silver hornbills, plantain eaters, crested hawk eagles, mouse birds, beautifully colored sunbirds, red bishop weavers, and longtailed wydahs. I saw many other birds, most of which I could not identify. Civits and mongoose do well in the area. They would on occasion make off with one of Jim's chickens. There is one animal that the locals say exists that I am puzzled about. They call it the dog of the forest, and they are afraid of it. I questioned a local boy who had recently seen one. I showed him the illustrations from the Collins Field Guide to African Mammals and he pointed out the side striped jackal. Jackals and other wild canines are not normally found in African forests. Since much of the original forest has been cleared perhaps the jackals have been able to exploit this new habitat. I had this same individual look through the rest of my field guide and comment on what species were still found in the area, and to this he added which ones tasted good. Most creatures, unfortunately for them, taste good. I am sure many of the attitudes expressed by the Luama residents about the local wildlife would upset many animal lovers. The fact that large numbers are slaughtered often by cruel means is disturbing. It must be remembered, however, that these people are very poor. The average daily wage in the area is 5 Zaires a day, 40 of which make up a US dollar. Any supplement to the local people's income from the sale of meat or pelts does help raise their 175 Reflections on Luama. Continued. standard of living. The greatest threat to the wildlife of the Luama Valley is habitat destruction. It is unfortunate that a system of reserves has not been set up to keep the more steeply sloped areas forested. Such a system would serve three purposes. The first would be that the soil in such areas would be held in place by the forest. Steep areas that are under cultivation lose great amounts of soil during heavy rains. Even now, erosion is a serious problem in some areas. The second benefit the forest would provide in an area that could be used for gathering of plants used in traditional medicine, raw materials for clothing and building materials. The final benefit would be the use of the forest for both meat and recreational hunting. I personally find nothing wrong with hunting, as long as animal populations are not depleted enough to cause local extinction. Wildlife, if used wisely, can provide a renewable resource. If a limited number were taken by hunting, the natural reproduction of a species can replace those individuals sacrificed. The suggestion that hunting can be a type of recreation may sound callous to some. The Luama residents, except for church and occasional celebrations, have no means of entertainment. There are no TVs, or movies, and books and batteries for radios are too expensive for most. Hunting does provide something for these people to do. What I am proposing is that indigenous peoples who live beside wildlife must be shown practical reasons for allowing that wildlife to survive. If these people can be convinced that areas set aside in their natural state will provide them some benefits, they are more likely to preserve such areas. Without habitat, no animals can exist. The theoretical benefits of conservation, such a protecting examples of a worldwide heritage, endangered species, or representative gene pools would find no lympathetic ears in Luama. It is not too late to set up a reserve system in Luama or elsewhere in East Kivu. The local government, however, does not have the funds or the interest to implement such a project. Outside agencies such as the Peace Corps are more interested in conventional agricultural pursuits. As much as I care about animals, I do not blame the people of Luama for the destruction of the area’s wildlife. If you spend some time with these folks you realize what a hard life they have. In spite of their plight, the Luama people are polite, warm and generous. You cannot help but develop an affection for them as individuals. They found it very amusing that I wished to look at animals instead of hunting them. When it was explained to them that in America people pay to see the very animals that they share their valley with, they were astonished. When I took a walk looking for galagoes my first evening in the valley, the local villagers asked Jim and his postmate what I was doing. When they explained my interest in viewing the animals instead of eating them, the locals went into hysterics. They went back to their villages and, with a great sense of humor, told their children that I was looking for little black babies so I could eat them. Afterwards, any local children under six I came across in my travels would run screaming to their mothers whenever they saw me. It has been over two years since I visited the Luama Valley. Jim has completed his tour with the Peace Corps and is now back in the States. He reports that the mountaintop gorilla sanctuary has been officially recognized by the Zairian Park Service, but they send no money to help operate it. The landowner from Goma continues to pay the guards who have decided on their own to protect the chimpanzees of the area as well. The lone male gorilla at the foot of the mountain has become more aggressive and is now greatly feared by the locals. The forest behind Jim's station was cleared for cattle pasture shortly after I left. He never again saw the blue monkey troop found there, and does not know their fate. I have slides of that forest and those monkeys which I look at on occasion. 9 176 Dear AAZK Member, October 4-8, 1987 will find the 13th National AAZK Conference being held in Milwaukee. Hundreds of zookeepers, other staff and volunteers will meet for papers, tours and fun. This is the only event specifically designed for zookeeping and the trials and tribulations for both keeper and animal. Most important, the conference is an opportunity to socialize with fellow professionals. The chance to tell of successes, find solutions to problems and stimulate thought in both directions are all in the offing. Here you can find that your zoo is not that different from any other. Financially, you cannot afford to miss this conference. Milwaukee is a large city of modest prices. Following is a list of expenses you will encounter. Transportation: Auto - Milwaukee is within driving distance of many major zoos. Only a six-hour trip from Minneapolis, St. Louis and Cleveland. -OR- Air - Fares are still at record low prices. Hotel: $50/night- many rooms can accommodate up to four persons, without costing more. Parking is free. Meals: 5 out of 8 lunches/dinners are provided free with your conference registration. An assortment of restaurants from McDonald's to elegant dining are right across the street. Conference Registration: Still a bargain at $55. See if you can find that for a 4-day conference anywhere. Give serious thought to attending the National Conference. We're sure you'll want to attend year after year. Cross-word Puzzle Clues Across: 27. Conference '87 will be held in which month? Down: 10. Dollar amount refunded from registration for presenting a paper. 11. Conference '87 hotel: N. 1987 AAZK NATIONAL CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FORM OCTOBER 4-8, 1987 Milwaukee , WI Please type of print. (One name per form) Name Address City State/Province Zip Code Telephone # ( I Zoo Affiliation Area of Interest AAZK Committee Member? Will be submitting a paper: Yes No ($20.00 will be refunded from registration fee on acceptance of paper.) Participating in Zoolympics: Yes No Bringing auction item: Yes No Describe briefly Vegetarian: Yes No (Specify Type ) Banquet Entree: (check one) Beef Chicken Vegetarian Are you interested in a Conference T-shirt: Yes No ( S M L XL ) AAZK Membership Status and Fees: Member/Spouse $55.00 each Non-Member $70.00 each Late Fee $10.00 ( after August 15, 1987) Total Fees Enclosed $ One-day rates for individual conference events are available. Contact Steven M. Wing for details. Arrival date and time: Let us know ASAP if you need pick-up assistance. Please make payment to: AAZK Milwaukee Chapter Return this form with your fee to: Conference '87, Milwaukee County Zoo, 1001 W. Bluemound Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226. HOTEL RESERVATION REQUEST 1987 AAZK National Conference October 4-8, 1987 Name Address City Zip Code Date of Arrival Date of Departure. Guaranteed by: Credit Card Check Credit Card Card # Expiration Date: Rooms will be held only until 6:00 p.m. unless guaranteed by either credit card or one night's deposit. Dbl./Dbl. King 1 Person $50.00 $50.00 2 Persons $50.00 $50.00 I will be sharing a room with We will be able to match-up single delegates with roommates. Do you need a roommate: Yes No If yes, state restrictions (i.e. male, female, nonsmoker, etc.) We will make every effort to match roommates, but we cannot guarantee it. Return this form tQ; Conference '87 Milwakuee County Zoo 10001 W. Bluemound Road Milwaukee, WI 53226 State/Province. Telephone # [ L Post-Conference Activities in Chicago Conference delegates may extend their time in the Midwest, visiting the zoos and aquarium in Chicago, on the two days following the National Conference in Milwaukee. Busses will leave Milwaukee in the morning on Friday, 9 October, arriving at Lincoln Park Zoo for an orientation to the Chicago activities and an introduction to this zoo. There will be behind-the-scenes tours and lunch provided there. Delegates will then be transported to the John G. Shedd Aquarium for tours of their working areas and a reception. The evening will be left free for dinner on your own, and a taste of Chicago night life. Some of our very experienced Keepers are making a list of recommended attractions, especially places to hear music and dance. KAL and hotel accommodations will be available. The hotel is in the heart of downtown, and rooms have been calculated for multiple occupancy to keep expenses down. Each roomfull must make their own arrangements directly with the Best Western Inn of Chicago (312) 787-3100, mentioning that they are part of the AAZK group. One pair of keepers in a queen-sized bed will be charged $70; two pairs of keepers in two double beds will be charged $75. If you need assistance in pairing up, contact Dominique Galiano at Lincoln Park Zoo (312) 294-4760. For Chicago, these room rates are very reasonable and the inn is at Ohio and Michigan, within walking distance of some of the best features of our city. Please note: hotel reservations must be made three weeks in advance of the trip or before 18 September 1987. Saturday morning will see delegates on their way to Brookfield Zoo for a full day of touring, then a return to Milwaukee. The cost of the post-conference tours will be determined by the cost of transportation and will be announced soon. To register for the days in Chicago, please fill out the accompanying questionnaire and send it to: Pat Sammarco, Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Dr., Chicago, IL 60614. Post-Conference Response Form Are you planning to attend the Milwaukee AAZK Conference? Are you planning to attend the Post-conference trip to Chicago? How will you get to Chicago? Bus provided by fee? Own means? Need pick up at O'Hare Airport at Midway Airport Arrival Time Will you remain in Chicago overnight on 9 October? at Best Western Inn In Chicago? in a KAL home? make your own arrangements? Will you leave Chicago on 9 October? Will you need a ride to: Time: Will you leave Chicago on 10 October? Time:. Milwaukee? O’Hare Airport? Midway Airport? Train Station? on bus provided by fee? (return to Milwaukee) from O'Hare Airport? from Midway Airport? . by train? by own means? Any other comments? Growing Hydroponic Grass at the Bronx Zoo BiJ Diane Lord, Mammal Keeper Bronx Zoo, Bronx, NY When I first began working at the Bronx Zoo, I became intrigued by the daily deliveries of what seemed to resemble sod. Along with the rest of the animal food items were these large strips of fresh, succulent green grass. These tender shoots were bound together underneath by an entanglement of clean white roots. All I knew was that the animals relished it. I didn't know where it came from or how it was grown. I decided to find out. George Fielding, Animal Commissary Manager, was the man with the answers. Up the stairs I went, into a large trailer, for a tour of the production of this unusual food: hydroponic grass. By controlling temperature, humidity, aeration and light, grass can be grown without soil. Four pounds of seed can be converted into 32 pounds of grass in just 7 days! It's not a new idea. The basic principles date back to 1669 when Woodward, an English scientist, attempted to grow plants in water. Almost a century ago, European farmers who wanted to maintain milk production in winter soaked kernels and germinated them in a warm place in the barn. The term "hydroponics" is generally credited to Dr. W. Gericke who developed the first large scale plant production in nutrient solution in the 20's. Armies have used hydroponics to grow vegetables in desolate areas. We use succotash, a mixture of wheat, barley and oats. (One tray of sprouted sunflower seed is also used daily because of its palatability to the primates in Jungleworld.) Seed must be untreated; free of fungicides and bactericides which may be harmful to animals. Since untreated seed harbors a wide variety of mold spores and bacteria which would flourish, we soak the seed in a 1% Clorox® solution for 30 minutes. The seeds aren't rinsed, causing the chlorinated odor some keepers detect before rinsing their grass. Soaking also stimulates germination and reduces the slimy sediment from grain dust which clogs pipes. Each day a set of trays is harvested. It is their 7th day of germination. And each day that set is replanted. The days of the week are written near each set of trays facilitating the identification of that day's crop. The plastic trays are filled with 1 /4 inch of soaked seed and placed on the shelves of large tiers. Any cooler than 66 degrees F would inhibit grass growth. Any warmer would encourage mold. Regular flourescent lights are used since "growth lights" aren't necessary for such short term harvesting. The seeds are watered four times a day governed by a timeclock. Water is pumped from a resevoir on the floor up a pipe over each shelf where the water is released through tiny holes. The result is a rainfall dramatic enough for you to require a raincoat! Occasionally keepers receive grass with more roots than shoots. The hull of a seed may have blocked a water hole. Most of the water soaks through the seedlings to the bottom of the tilted tray where carefully designed grooves funnel the water to a collecting trough and back to the resevoir. The rest of the rain which hits the walls and floor runs down the slanted floor, also recycled to the resevoir. The first rain is at 12 noon and contains only a mild chlorine solution for initial disinfection. Most of this chlorine will disperse into the air. The remaining 3 rains (6 p.m., 12 a. m. and 6 a.m.) contain nutrients. This is accomplished by putting chlorine in the resevoir and sprinkling 5 oz. of a powdered nutrient mix on the floor. The chlorine in the resevoir is used in the first rain which eventually hits the floor, dissolving the nutrient mix there. The dissolved nutrient mix flows down to the resevoir and is used for the next 3 rains. Clever! 177 Growing Hudrovonic Grass at the Bronx Zoo . Continued The nutrient mix we use is called "20-20-20" and contains 20% each of nitrogen, phosphorus and potash, a potassium compound. It results in a slight increase in fresh weight, mineral and carotene content. Some individuals, however, argue that the increases due to the nutrient mix are not significant and question using the nutrient mix at all if seedlings up to 8 days grow mainly at the expense of their own reserves. But the nutrient mix is not exorbitant in price and seems to make sense, so most continue to use it. On the 7th day the grass is harvested. Seven-day grass is richer in protein, vitamins and minerals than younger grass. Older grass can cause clogging and is more likely to contain mold. Keepers can identify mold by inspecting the root area and the base of the blades of grass. Often it is seen as black or colored dots or as fine white, gray or black threads. Smell the roots. They should smell sweet, not sour. If in doubt, throw it out! Some question the point of hydroponic farming. Wouldn't it be cheaper to feed the original seeds than to spend all that effort and electricity getting them to sprout? The composition of the sprouts are indeed predetermined by the composition of their respective seeds. But some animals prefer the sprouts to the seeds, and eating grass takes more time. They are provided with an activity, and an excellent treat. But most of all, hydroponic grass is a very cheap form of fresh vegetable matter useful as a partial replacement for produce. We get over 1000 lbs of grass from 128 lbs of seed with only 21/2 hours of labor a day. And some sprouts are quite rich. Sunflower sprouts, for example, are higher in protein and fat than lettuce, celery and green beans! Hydroponic grass can't, however, compete with either hay or pellets for the feeding of ungulates. Claims have been made that hydroponic grass stimulates virility, litter size, growth and lactation, possibly due to some unidentified grass juice factors. Some feel very strongly about this although others insist there is no conclusive evidence. Cereal grasses from oats, wheat, rye and barley do contain orally active estrogen. Other benefits: Calcium and zinc levels are greatly increased. Other minerals and protein rise only slightly and copper and potassium drop slightly. Carotene, vital to reproduction as a precursor of vitamin A, rises dramatically. Its synthesis is closely associated with chlorophyll synthesis and is probably greatly stimulated by light. The grass is an excellent source of vitamins C, K, and E and represents a steady source of fresh vegetable matter through all types of weather. Zoos have used it not only for hoofstock but also for tortoises, iguanas, primates, birds, bears, mice, hippos, kangaroos, and even insect colonies! What began as an amusement in something new to me led to an understanding of this interesting product we call hydroponic grass. I'm happy to have been able to share what I learned with you. (Bibliography: conversations with George Fielding, Animal Commissary Manager, Bronx Zoo; Dr. Ellen Dierenfeld, Nutritionist, Bronx Zoo; and Mel Lentz, founder of Hydroculture, Inc., Glendale, AZ. Also, Sergio Oyarzun's article, "Hydroponic Crops: A Valuable Alternative for Feeding Zoo Animals?" in the Proceedings of the 1st Annual Dr. Scholl Nutrition Conference, 1980.) 178 E or a consistent supply of high quality, pure-beef diet, call Hereford Bi-Products An article about Charley Azzopardi, Amarillo, Texas, published in ACCENT WEST magazine. 1-800-858-4384 U.S. 1-800-692-4043 Texas Hereford Bi-Products, Inc. P.O. Box 2257 • Hereford. TX 79045 Your meat source since 1967. EHBP 1987 Pandas Rrriue at the Bronx By Mark L. Hofling, Menagerie Keeper Mammal Dept., Bronx Zoo Bronx, NY Panda-monium has hit the Bronx Zoo. Two Giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca ) on loan from the Beijing Zoo arrived at the Bronx Zoo on 19 April. The two, on a six-month loan, are Ling Ling (Ringing Bell), and Yong Yong (Forever and ever). They were held in quarantine until 30 April to give them time to recover from their trip and to adjust to their new exhibit. Due to pandas' solitary nature as adults, they will be exhibited one at a time. Ling Ling is a one-and-a-half-year-old male presently weighing in at about 120 pounds. He was conceived by artificial insemination and born in the Beijing Zoological Gardens on 5 September, 1985. Yong Yong is a six-year-old female who now weighs about 190 pounds. She was found as an abandoned infant in the Sichuan Province. Yong Yong arrived at the Beijing Zoo in 1982 where she was estimated to be about eleven months old. The arrival of the pandas at the Bronx was the result of many peoples' efforts, but New York City's Mayor Edward I. Koch and William Conway, General Director of the New York Zoological Society, deserve much of the credit. Mayor Koch said, "April certainly isn't the cruelest month in New York this year, thanks to the arrival of the pandas in the Bronx. This is the culmination of years of efforts by others, as well as myself, to persuade the Chinese to let us see these magnificant animals in New York. I am grateful to the Chinese Government, my friend Mayor Chen Xitong of Beijing, and the Beijing Zoo for making it happen. This is a perfect example of how to bring distant peoples together. The pandas are ambassadors extraordinaire." Dr. Conway said, "The Giant Panda's plight is a poignant symbol for endangered wildlife everywhere, and the panda itself is an engaging stimulus to visit the Bronx Zoo. Besides, New Yorkers have a special interest in Giant Pandas. The New York Zoological Society has been working in China since 1980 helping Chinese conservation biologists to define and resolve the threats to the panda's future." New York Zoological Society involvement in panda research began in 1980 when George Schaller, Director of Wildlife Conservation International (WCI), a division of the New York Zoological Society, joined Chinese panda experts as part of an international effort to save the panda. Dr. Schaller worked in Wolong and Tangjiane Reserves until 1985. His studies have since been continued by WCI researcher Donald Reid. The study and its conclusions are described in Giant Pandas of Wolong. by Dr. Schaller and his Chinese colleagues. New York Zoological Society has also helped the Chinese government establish a captive breeding program designed to improve their rate of success with panda births. Dr. Emil Dolensek and Dr. Janet Stover of the Animal Health Center of the Bronx Zoo have journeyed to China to contribute their expertise concerning reproduction studies. The loan is indeed a continuation of that support. A nominal fee is being charged to see the pandas, and net proceeds will go to the Chinese to continue panda research. Back in the Bronx, the pandas Ling Ling and Yong Yong will be cared for by Senior Keeper Bill Sheshko and Keeper Laurie Thomas, both of whom are dedicated professionals. To prepare to care for the pandas, Bill and Laurie made a trip to the National Zoo in Washington, DC to talk with panda keepers there. They have also spent many hours studying Giant Panda history and biology. Ling Ling and Yong Yong were accompanied to the Bronx by a Chinese veterinarian, Dr. Wong; Mr. Shi, Director of the Beijing Zoo; and a translator, Mr. Gao. They have been most helpful in showing Bill and Laurie the ins and outs of panda keeping. So, if you an opportunity this summer to come to New York, be sure to come to the Bronx to see Ling Ling and Yong Yong. They will be on exhibit from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and until 5:30 p.m. on Sundays and holidays. There will be a separate charge for the Giant Panda Exhibit in effect of $1.00 for adults and $.50 for children ages 2-12. All net proceeds will go to the Chinese for their Giant Panda Conservation Program. The tickets will be sold for specific viewing hours on a "first-available-hour" basis. The best time to see the pandas will be in the mornings and late afternoons, which is when they are most active. 180 Pandas Rrriue at the Bron». continued For further information, please call (212) 367-1010 — - Mark L. Hof ling, Menagerie Keeper, Mammal Dept.,/ Corresponding Secretary, Bronx Zoo AAZK Chapter. I wish to express my special thanks to Dr. Fred Koontz, Associate Curator of Mammals, for his help in providing sources for this article. Interview: M. Kamal Naidu, Director, National Zoo, India By Sally Walker, Honorary Advisor Zoo Outreach Organization SRW: Mr. Naidu, would you tell us something about your background and how you became interested in zoos? MKN: I've always been interested in animals from my childhood when I used to keep animals in my bedroom! I grew up on a farm and we always had a variety of animals. I used to rear baby animals myself from the time I was a tiny child. I kept snakes and fish in my room until my college days. I chose Agricultural College so I could join the Forest Department. As a Divisional Forest Officer I had occasion to rear a variety of baby animals which had been orphaned or strayed out of the forest. I taught at the college for several years which gave me the chance to visit many zoos and National Parks and Sanctuaries in India accompanying the students. It was because of this background that I was chosen Director of Nehru Zoological Park in Flyderabad. As the Director I had to learn my zoo administration from scratch as there were no guidelines and no one to guide me in how to manage it. I would daily go and catch hold of some keeper and accompany him to each cage and see what he did there. In his desire to please me he would show me everything and that became a lesson to me. And later I started codifying all this and then learned some of the things that go into the care of animals. In course of time I read many books, talked with many people and built up my own philosophy of zoo management. SRW: What does it mean to be the Director of National Zoological Park of India? What responsibilities does it entail? MKN: To be Director of National Zoo is a very responsible position. In recent years it has been decided that the National Zoological Park would be the coordinator of all the zoos in the country and implement certain decisions for the welfare of the animals and with the aim and objective of achieving conservation, education and research in a coordinated manner. It is the only zoo in the country funded entirely by the Central Government and when it was set up even as Delhi Zoo 27 years ago it was with the intention of providing a model for other zoos in India to follow. 181 INTERVIEW . Continued SRW: What specific programs do you have in mind for coordinating zoos? MKN: The program we have in mind first is for starting studbooks which we have initiated by assigning different animals to different zoos. We have requested the zoos to pass on their stock information to us so that we can introduce a system of breeding loans with systamatic and mutually beneficial exchange of animals between different zoos in the country. SRW: The National Zoo has hosted some interesting symposia in the past. Do you have any plans for workshops or symposia this year? MKN: Yes. We hope in future to have more of these at least once in a year so we can pool our knowledge and obtain information from all the zoo directors. SRW: What about training programs? MKN: Yes. We have a plan for initiating a training program for zoo attendants and keepers from January '87. We have requested about 15 zoos to send their keepers and once this first batch comes we can see our shortcomings and what is required for them and formulate plans for future courses including more people. We would like to have it as a continuous affair with a one month course for the regular keepers and when the older keepers or Head Keepers come we may have it a two-month course. As it is this year, we have initiated the Hissar Veterinary College trainees on a 15-day internship to the zoo and that went on very successfully. SRW: What do you see as the major problems in Indian zoos today? MKN: The major problem facing our zoos today is that our keepers are not of a high education standard and they don't have any concept about scientific management of a zoo. As a result we have to take up a program of educating the keepers and other staff of the zoo about the aims of the zoo so that they could carry on the message to the visitors. The people who visit the zoos in India are often uneducated or illiterate people. They can be best approached by our present keepers who are of the same level of education and sophistication. SRW: Some years ago-and this crops up from time to time— it was suggested to make a separate Zoo Authority of India. What happened to that idea and do you see it coming to pass? MKN: That was contemplated at one time but now we don't have any intention of forming such an authority. Now we have a Ministry where there is a Directorate of Wildlife and that covers the zoos. We have a Director and a Joint Director of Wildlife who are dealing with all matters of wildlife and as zoos come under the purvue of wildlife it is being handled at that level. And I think with a coordinating body of Zoo Directors which is being linked up ultimately with the Ministry and with the Director of Wildlife for the whole country as the Chairman of that body, I think that sort of coordinating by a Ministerial body would be sufficient. SRW: Could you elaborate about the Association of Zoo Directors? Has it been decided exactly how this will be formed and will there be a Code of Ethics and such things? MKN: The preliminary meeting had taken place on the 25th anniversary of the National Zoo and it was decided that a Union will be formed. It was also decided that a Code of Ethics would be chalked out which everyone will adhere to ultimately. Unless we have such a code and abide by it, no union will be worth its name. SRW: What is the general feeling about international cooperation? The AAZPA has put together an International Species Inventory System for all the captive animals in the world which they are hoping everyone will join. What do you feel about participating in such programs? MKN: It is absolutely essential if we are pursuing the aim of conservation. Conservation is not merely breeding of animals but keeping in view the genetic complex of the animals is also a very 182 INTERVIEW. Continued important aspect. Without keeping the genetic make-up of a species there is no point in breeding from the same line generation after generation as it has happened in some of our zoos with just a single male or a single female in a group. This has happened with the white tiger. They had degraded very badly genetically so now we have spread them out to different zoos and asked them to breed with their local males, raise the offspring and breed them back to bring in new blood lines. I think all zoos in India should unite among ourselves and then with the international bodies. I think we should never hestitate to exchange animals or give them on breeding loan. We should act for the species and not for the institution. SRW: There seems to be a sort of predjudice against importing and keeping exotic animals in India by certain conservationists and even wildlife officials. What is the reason for this? The people want to see them and zoo directors naturally need to please the public at least to some extent. MKN: I think India has a very broad spectrum of animals in our own country. I don't think many people know much about the species that we possess ourselves. On the contrary, the minute we talk about the zoo, every zoo director wants to have a zebra and an ostrich and a giraffe and a kangaroo. These species have formed an important part of the animal alphabets with the result that every school child wants to see these animals. But we are trying to discourage the obtaining of certain species like the antelopes, the carnivores, the rodents from other countries. I don't think it is so very necessary to get them when we could exhibit our own species to the people and enlighten them about what a rich heritage of wildlife we have that should be preserved and protected. This sort of restriction we want to impose more on the zoos at the regional levels and in the smaller zooz whereas the state zoo could exhibit these animals for the people to see. SRW: I believe National Zoo has a plan for a model education program. MKN: Yes, education has been a sadly neglected activity in our zoos. All along it has been only considered as a place of recreation. Of course, people did get a little segment of education as in the school books as in "z" is for zebra and "e" is for elephant and that sort of thing created the idea that animals could be used as educational tools. Then children could be taught that the zebra was from Africa, kangaroo from Australia and so on, but the zoo as such has not been properly interpreted in the past. Only in recent years have we started feeling that proper interpretation is necessary to link up the animal with its environment. And also to exhibit the need for conservation for certain species. This can best be done by interpretation programs. Since we did not have much know-how in this regard, the US Fish and Wildlife Service has cooperated with us in drawing up a program of zoo interpretation which is now underway. A comprehensive and coordinated program with waysides, brochures, etc. is being prepared at the Centre for Environmental Education at Ahmedabad. When that is finished, hopefully by the end of November, it will provide a model for other Indian zoos to follow. They can evolve their own things based on their own environment. SRW: Some of the India zoo directors are disappointed that they have not been able to procure certain equipment from abroad, such as tranquilizer guns, drugs, etc. Project Tiger Centres have this equipment. Why can't the zoos get it? MKN: This is also underway now. We have written to the concerned persons and this is another aspect where we are going to have a centralized control. We are having a problem getting feedback about what they need from all the zoos. Once they have responded to our queries we will have the data which will enable us to place an order. Tentatively based on the information we have received from some zoos, I have projected our annual requirement and we are going ahead with it. SRW: What are some of the priority breeding programs in some of the zoos? 183 INTERVIEW. Continued MKN: The priority breeding programs are based only on the endangered species -- the Indian Rhino, the Swamp Deer, Indian Bustard, White Tiger and certain other threatened species. Now crocodiles have come out of that state. They have been hatched and reared in captivity - a project initiated by our zoos - and released back to the wild state. Some other species that have been returned to the wild successfully are the Spotted Deer, the Sambar, the Blackbuck, etc. SRW: In the Wildlife Action Plan, on-site captive breeding centres are described which are not open to the public but would be adjoining to or near the site of certain species natural habitats. Is the implementation of this impending in the near future? MKN: This is very much a part of the Plan and there is a specific budget allocated for that. Many sanctuaries and national parks have been asked to earmark a specific area for captive breeding of endangered species in their sanctuaries and national parks. I think for the time being more emphasis is being given to the natural habitat for this captive breeding rather than the zoos. And we may take up in the zoos such of the species that have come down to such a level that it becomes absolutely necessary to bring them into captivcity under zoo conditions and breed them and study them intensely. Whereas this present project is to protect them in their natural environment where they breed and then sort of over from that breeding centre into their natural habitat. SRW: In India you have the National Forest Policy and the National Wildlife Policy. Do you have any plan to have a National Zoo Policy? MKN: Yes, in our National Wildlife Policy a lot of statements pertain to the need for the development and maintanance of zoos. Some 14 years ago in 1972, a Committee was set up under the Indian Board for Wildlife constituted of experts to study the setting up of model zoos. One of the recommendations of the Committee was the formation of a National Zoo Policy. Now according to the recommendation of that committee and the Wildlife Action Plan, we are contemplating formulating a National Zoo Policy for the country under which we will set standards. If a zoo does not meet the set of standards outlined in the Policy, the government would take drastic steps including the closing down of the institution. For example we want to insist there should be a minimum area for a zoo, a minimum area for individual enclosures and for the animal. There should also be a minimum number of animals in an enclosure. Because the ultimate aim is conservation with education and research as well. With this object in view the Zoo Policy is being drafted. And also we want to impose certain restrictions on the zoo that they should not go beyond their capacity to maintain a zoo. They should not crave and get everything every other zoo has. They should have some restrictions. Unless this is done, the zoo will become the antithesis of conservation and may drain the last remaining animals of the threatened species. SRW: Do you feel that many animals are being taken from the wild state for exhibition? MKN: Yes -- it is being done by some of the zoos clandestinely. It had come to our attention last year and drastic action is being taken against such zoos. They have been suitably warned. It is with that idea that we want to develop this Zoo Policy with certain stringent deterrents to stop clandestine acquisition of animals. Every animal should now be taken from zoo-born stock rather than taken from the wild. Because the present situation in our country is that many animals are getting depleted far beyond the requirements for breeding. SRW: Western zoos rely heavily on volunteer programs for educational, fundraising and even some animal care assistance. What is your feeling about this? Is it desirable in India? MKN: I feel it is very much necessary because voluntary organizations coming to the aid of the institution are indicative of people genuinely interested in animals and their welfare, unlike the employee who is interested only in his bread and butter. He will not have the same dedication to the welfare of the animal as the people from voluntary organizations have. 184 INTERVIEW . Continued I very much feel this group of people have to be encouraged. Again, there are some organizations and individuals who are trying to pose as volunteers only for the building of their own image. This has to be discouraged. A volunteer, if he is genuinely interested, will come and say "Here I am, ready to help you. What can I do?" It is that type of person we would like to encourage. I was very impressed to learn from annual reports from western zoos that there are more volunteers working in some zoos than there are employees, some in a ratio of 1 :4. That sort of thing would be very useful in helping with the staff, with the trade union activities which I understand in quite rampant even in the west. I am hoping to have a voluntary force trained to help so the unions can't blackmail us. SRW: It has been suggested that the zoos be made an essential service so that strikes are not permitted and valuable and innocent animals should not suffer. MKN: That has been recommended by the Expert Committee on Zoos. We are actively thinking along those lines of getting it declared as such, at least for the Animal Section if not for the whole zoo personnel. SRW: On behalf of Zoo Outreach Organization, I thank you for giving us some of your valuable time. A Note on the Behavior of Captive Nilgiri Langurs f Presbytis iohni) By Pundareeka Rao, Warden Sri Chamarqjendra Zoological Gardens Mysore, India "Our beautiful wildlife is becoming extinct...!" Throughout India, growing numbers of people are at last becoming aware of the terrible plight of our country's natural heritage, and of the pressing need to preserve our remaining wilderness and the plants and animals dwelling within them. The role of zoological parks is also increasingly recognized, not only to provide last-resort living space for critically endangered species, but also opportunities for behavioral research and captive breeding. Perhaps most important of all, our people are beginning to realize that only through close cooperation between our zoos, national parks, wildlife preserves and research institutions can we hope to save our precious wildlife. As more zoos cooperate in exchanging research data and breeding groups, a number of successes have resulted in recent years. One of these success stories is the study and breeding of the Nilgiri langurs (Presbytis johni) exhibited here at Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens in Mysore. Our director, Sri C.D. Krishne Gowda, planned a breeding program for the southern primates, including the Nilgiri langur. In 1982, three (1.2) langurs, ages 2 1/2 to 3 years of age, were brought from Anna Zoological Gardens in Madras, to Mysore, and released into an old ape enclosure. During the following two years, no breeding was observed. Finally in 1984, the three langurs were transferred to a well-planned, naturalistic enclosure designed especially for them by Mr. Gowda. Since then the author has observed the animals at all hours. In their new enclosure, so much like their natural environment, the three langurs interacted socially in a healthy manner. Furthermore, the author has never observed quarreling among them. 185 A Note on the Behavior of Captive Nilgiri Langurs. Continued During the months of June and July, 1985, breeding between the male and both females was observed. On 9 January, 1985, to the great joy of the zoo staff, one of the females gave birth to a female infant. There were no complications. In color and pattern the infant was brownish black with a white face and white patch on the inner thigh. Both parents, and the other female, displayed continuous gentleness and attention toward the infant. Understandably, the infant seemed perfectly at ease with all three adult langurs. After the first week, the infant attempted to walk independently, falling repeatedly, but always trying again. Both females watched this closely, and occasionally emitted high- pitched chattering sounds. Upon hearing the sounds the infant returned to its mother. The author's presence inside the enclosure did not appear to disturb the langurs, except when there was an attempt to touch the infant. At such times, the langurs chattered and bared their teeth. On 31 January, 1986, the second female gave birth to another infant, also a female. To our great sorrow, the first infant died not long after the birth of the second. The mother refused food for three days; however, after the fourth day she slowly began feeding again. A week after the death of the first infant, the mother was observed nursing the infant of the second female. Since then, both females have shared the rearing of the surviving offspring (which is doing well and is becoming very active). Infant transferring has been reported by Poirier (1968); however, Poirier did not suggest that other females fed a mother's infant. Also, our captive-bom infant shows more interest in humans than her wild-caught parents. Our success with Nilgiri langurs points out the need for naturalistic habitats at zoos. In this way the modern zoo is able to educate the public, and to instill in them an appreciation for wildlife by exhibiting animals attractively, and as naturalistically as possible. To this end, modern zoos also must provide opportunities for study and breeding, liberal exchange of animals and research results, if they are to ensure the continued survival of wildlife, not only in India, but throughout the world. Literature Cited Poirier, F.E.: 1968. The Nilgiri langur (Preshutis iohnii) mother- infant dyad. Primates, 9:45-68. Acknowledgements My deepest appreciation and thanks to our Zoo Director, Sri C.D. Krishne Gowda, Sri Mukunda Krishne Gowda, Panchanah Farm and Sally Walker, Zoo Outreach Organization for their support and encouragement. From the friends of Zoo Atlanta, many thanks to Fred Alvey for his valuable time in editing the manuscript, to Tony Vecchio for his technical review and advice, and to Susan Barnard for taking time to also edit and type the several manuscript drafts. 186 Book Review Trend? in Ecology and Evolution, Vol. l (1986) Elsevier Science Publishers Journal Information Center Attn: TREE Subscriptions 52 Vanderbilt Ave. New York , NY 10017 Subscription: $43.00/year. Metroparks Zoo , Ohio Trends in Ecology and Evolution is a new monthly journal that began publication last July. It covers a wide range of topics relating to the ecology and evolution of plants and animals, including population biology and genetics, conservation, coevolution, extinction and animal behavior. The journal is international in scope, although the vast majority of contributors is affiliated with institutions in the U.S. and Great Britain. Each issue, approximately 30 pages long, contains three main sections: News, Reviews, and Commentary. The short one or two page News articles present brief overviews of subjects presently under investigation and/or debate, such as: 1) an analysis of the question of whether or not to maintain reproductive isolation of captive subspecies populations (July); 2) an update on the controversary surrounding the plight of the endangered northern spotted owl ( Strix occidentalis caurina). whose forest habitat is sought for timbering by the U.S. Forest Service (November); and 3) a report on a recent symposium dealing with the evidence for and against the theory of reciprocal altruism (December). The Reviews section contains longer, technical articles that present detailed summaries of the results of research in areas currently being studied. Among recent articles of interest to the curious naturalist are a synthesis of recent findings regarding the population dynamics of tropical rain forest trees (December), an analysis of differences in the behavioral biology of toothed and baleen whales (December) and a review of modem theories on the causes of mass extinction (November). In Commentary, authors express and defend opinions on subjects relevant to evolutionary biology or ecology. Two recent commentaries have focused on the use of extinction models in wildlife conservation (August) and the effects of man-induced desertification in central South America (September). Each issue also contains book reviews and a listing of upcoming professional meetings. Editorials and letters to the editor occur on an irregular basis. To date, every issue of Trends in Ecology and Evolution has contained articles of interest to those in the zoo/aquarium profession. This is a quality publication; although the subscription fee may be too steep for some wallets; for those who can afford it, the journal is well worth the expense. 187 Egg Weight Loss During Incubation By Kerry Hoffman, Keeper Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum Tucson, AZ The avian egg is a complete unit - a total package. All the material for turning a raw egg into a living bird is contained within the shell of the avian egg. When heat is applied to that egg, a spark ignites the metabolic furnace and the embryo begins to develop. Cells replicate and differentiate and the by-products of this metabolism are water and carbon dioxide. These by-products can be fatal to the developing embryo unless they are expelled from the egg; the mechanism of explusion is the egg shell itself. The shell is covered with millions of tiny pores which allow oxygen, the fuel for the metabolic furnace, to enter the egg. As water is expelled from the egg, the egg loses weight. If the eggs are being intensively managed in an artificial incubator, the weight loss of the eggs can be controlled by raising or lowering the humidity in the incubator. When the humidity is high the air is nearly saturated with water and the egg has difficulty expelling water vapor, so it loses weight slowly. A low humidity in the incubator pulls water from the egg and the egg loses weight at a faster rate. By adjusting the humidity between the two extremes the hatchery operator can control the amount of weight an egg loses during its incubation period. An accepted standard rate of weight loss during incubation is 15% to 18% of the egg's fresh weight. By weighing the egg every other day the hatchery operator can monitor each egg and raise or lower the incubator humidity as needed. The percentage weight loss of an egg is easy to calculate if you get the egg fresh and weigh it, then monitor its weight loss during incubation. But what happens if the fresh egg weight is unknown or you only have one weight value for the egg on day twelve of incubation? How can this information help you? Remember in high school when you said "Why do I have to take algebra?" What possible use can I have for algebra once I get out of this place? Well, hold on to your hats for a trip down memory lane as we work through a weight loss problem. Let's say that you have been working hard to establish a breeding program for the Cock-a- trice for several years and this year in particular it looks as if your program may come to fruition. But, as so often happens, the Cock-a-trice lays its egg while you are on vacation. You return to work and discover the egg in the incubator and a note taped to the door of the machine which says that the Cock-a-trice egg was collected and set in the incubator twelve days ago, but no weights or measurements have been taken. This egg is very important and you need its fresh egg weight in order to monitor its weight loss and ensure a successful hatch. What can you do? There is a relationship between egg size and fresh egg weight which is expressed by the formula: f=kwlw^ Where f is the unknown fresh egg weight, 1 is the length of the egg in centimeters, w is the width of the egg in centimeters and kw is a constant value of 0.576 (Hoyt, 1979). Now you can take the calipers, put on the plastic gloves to protect the egg shell and immediately collect the length and width measurements and weigh the egg. 188 Egg Weight Loss During Incubation. Continued The length of the nearly round Cock-a-trice egg is 5.68cm and the width is 5.10cm. In order to get the fresh egg weight, simply plug the numbers into the formula: f=kwlw2 =(0.576) 5.68 (5.10 2 ) =(0.576 147.74 =85.1 grams If this Cock-a-trice egg weighed 85 grams on the day it was laid and it is expected to lose 15% to 18% of its weight over a 32-day incubation period, then: 85 grams X 0.15 = 12.8 grams and: 85 grams X 0.18 = 15.3 grams So, the egg should lose between 12.8 grams and 15.3 grams over 32 days, or: 12,8 grams = 0.4 grams/day 32 days and: 153 grams = 03 grams/day 32 days and we see that the egg should lose between 0.4 and 0.5 grams each day. Let's say the weight of the egg on day 12 was 80.2 grams and the fresh egg weight, as calculated, was 85.1 grams. With these two points we can calculate the slope of the weight loss line and figure out at what percentage rate the egg has been losing weight so far. This formula looks difficult but it makes perfect sense and is really very simple to use if you know two weights of the egg, the number of days into incubation that the second weight was taken, and the estimated incubation period. Let S = the starting weight, that is the fresh egg weight (in our case S = 85.1). Let E = the second weight value (E = 80.2). Let I = the number of days into incubation that the second weight was taken (I = 12). Let P = the estimated incubation period. In the case of the Cock-a-trice P = 32. Our first calculation is to find out how much weight the egg lost in those 12 days of incubation so we simply substract one weight from the other: S-E 85.1 - 80.2 = 4.9 grams Next we calculate a daily weight loss by dividing that amount by the number of days the egg has been incubated: SjlE I 85.1-80.2 12 = 0.41 grams/day 189 Egg Weight Loss Purina Incubation. Continued If we multiply that amount by the predicted incubation period we can estimate how much weight the egg will lose over the entire incubation period if it continues to lose weight at this rate: S-E (P) I 85tl ~ 8Q»2 (32) = 13.12 grams Divide this amount by the fresh weight of the egg and multiply the sum by 100 to arrive at the current percentage weight loss for this egg at this temperature and humidity. S-E (P) 1 (100) S 35.1-80,2 _ (32) — 12 (100)=15.4% 85.1 So it seems that the humidity in the incubator is just fine for the egg and in about 20 days a healthy Cock-a-trice should hatch. References: Hoyt, D.F. (1979): Practical methods of estimating volume and fresh egg weight in birds. AUK 96: 73-77. (Author's note: I will buy a cocktail of your choice at the icebreaker in Milwaukee for the first five people who write to me and tell me what a Cock-a-trice is and why we would probably not want to breed them in captivity.) 190 AAZK Regional Coordinators Co-Directors of Regional Coordinator System States East of Mississippi - Diane Krug, Rt. 1, Box 273, Hilliard, FL 32097 (904) 225-9559 [work] (904) 845-4279 [home] States West of Mississippi - Debbera Stecher, Woodland Park Zoo, 5500 Phinney Ave., North, Seattle, WA 98103. (206) 625-5402 [work] (206) 745-8198 [home] REGIONAL -COORDINATORS John Linehan, Franklin Park Zoo, Boston, MA 02021 (617) 442-7646 [w] for the states of ME, VT, NH, MA, RI, CT Peter Buchholz, Bronx Zoo, New York, NY 10460 (212) 220-5154 [w] (718) 229-7711 [h] for the states of NY, VA and the District of Columbia Denise Robinson, Philadelphia Zoo, Philadelphia, PA 19014 for the states of PA, DE, NJ, MD Linda Anstandig, Detroit Zooological Park, Detroit, MI for the states of MI, IN, KY, and OH VACANCY - FOR THE STATES OF TN, NC, SC, W. VA Larry Sammarco, Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago, IL 60614 (312) 294-4660 [w] for the states of WI, IL, MO, MN, and IA Tim Kurkowski, Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30315 (404) 624-5600 [w] (404) 428-0535 [h] for the states of GA, AR and AL Marcelle Guidry, Greater Baton Rouge Zoo, Baker, LA 70714 (504) 775-3877 [w] (504) 388-9392 [h] for the states of LA and MS Vikki Bohnert, 2264 Winkler Ave., B-ll, Ft. Myers, FL 33901 for the state of Florida John R. Turner, Denver Zoo, Denver, CO 80205 for the states of CO, NM, and TX Steve Tigges, Tulsa Zoological Park, Tulsa, OK 74115 for the states of OK, NE, KS, ND, and SD Laurence Gledhill, Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle, WA 98103 (206) 625-5497 [w] for the states of WA, OR, ID, MT, WY and AK Art Goodrich, San Diego Zoo, San Diego, CA 92112 for the states of CA, NV, UT and AZ Honolulu AAZK Chapter (Dan Vitiello, Pres.) (808) 923-4772 [w] for the Hawaiian Islands Neville Howard Pike, Metro Toronto Zoo, Box 280, West Hill, Ontario, Canada M1E 4R5 for the Province of Ontario, Canada Bob Debets, Assiniboine Park Zoo, 2235 Corydon Ave., Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3P OR5 for the Province of Manitoba, Canada (204) 489-3893 [h] Marcia Rasmussen, Calgary Zoo, P.O. Box 3036, Stn. B., Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2M 4R8 for the Provinces of Alberta and British Columbia, Canada (403) 235- 5461 [h] Need membership information? Want to learn more about AAZK or start a chapter or become more active - then call your RC! There is still one opening for an RC position for the states of TN, SC, NC, and W. VA. If you are interested, please contact Diane Krug, Eastern U.S. Regional Co-Director. You may call Diane collect at her home phone (904) 845-4279 evenings after 6 p.m. EST. This position offers a great opportunity to become involved in AAZK and to provide a valuable and necessary service to your Association. Institutiuons wishing to advertise employment opportunities are asked to send pertinent data by the 15th of each month to: Opportunity KnockslAKF . 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606. Please include closing dates for positions available. There is no charge for this service and phone-in listings of positions which become available close to deadline are accepted. CAREGIVER! CHIMPANZEES requires B.A. in Zoology, Biology, Anthropology or related fields of study and ability to work well with peers. Commensurate experience will be considered. Assist in the responsibility for maintaining and caring for approximately 60 chimpanzees ( Pan troglodytes). Should be interested in behavioral research that will add to the knowledge of captive chimpanzees and assist in improving captive management methods. Salary negotiable. Send letter of interest and resume to: Personnel Dept., Primate Foundation of Arizona, P.O. Box 86, Tempe, AZ 85281. Deadline for applications is 15 July 1987. RESEARCH ASSISTANT I requires M.A. degree or Ph.D. degree (A.B.D.’s considered) in Psychology, Zoology, or Anthropology and experience in Great Ape behavior research. Work directly under Research Director. Responsible for scheduling projects, maintaining records, and training observers. Assist in the collection of behavioral data for on-going and scheduled behavioral research projects. Assist in entering raw data into computer records and some analyses. Requires solid statistical background and ability to work well with students and other observers. Good organization and mana- gerial skills required. Salary negotiable. Send letter of interest and resume to: Personnel Dept., Primate Foundation of Arizona, P.O. Box 86, Tempe, AZ 85281 . Deadline for applications is 15 July 1987. HEADKEEPER! AQUATIC ANIMAL AREA experience required in exhibit and husbandry of aquatic birds and fish. Interpersonal and communication skills also required. Salary $17,000 to $23,000. Submit resume to: Richard M. Hurst, Human Resources, 3120 E. 30th Indianapolis, IN 46218. o p p k o n r 0 t u c k n s AVICULTURAL TRAINEESHIP full-time position requires one year commitment. Will receive intensive hands-on training in care and main- tenance of endangered cranes. 10% of time will be spent on independent project. $4.00/hr. plus benefits. Send letter of interest and three referen- ces to: Claire Mirande, Curator of Birds, International Crane Foundation, El 1376 Shady Lane Road, Baraboo, WI 53913. Phone (608) 356-9462. Deadline for applications is 1 August 1987. t y 192 AAZK Membership Application Name. Check here if renewal [ ] Address. $25.00 Professional Full-time Keepers $25.00 International All members outside the U.S. & Canada $15.00 Library Library subscription only Directory Information: Zoo:. $20.00 Affiliate Other staff & volunteers $15.00 Associate Those not connected with an animal facility $50.00 Contributing Organizations and Individuals Work Area: Special Interests: Mail this application and check or money order (U.S. CURRENCY ONLY PLEASE), payable to American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc., to: AAZK National Headquarters, Topeka Zoo, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606. 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. INFORMATION FOR CONTRIBUTORS 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. All illustrations, graphs and tables should be clearly marked, in final form, and should fit in a page size no more than 6" x 10" (15cm x 25 1/2cm). Literature used should be cited in the text and in final bibliography. Avoid footnotes. Include scientific name of species the first time it is used. Thereafter use common name. Black and white photos only accepted. Articles sent to Animal Keepers' Forum will be reviewed for publication. No commitment is made to the author, but an effort wili be made the publish articles as soon as possible. Those longer than three pages may be separated into monthly installments at the discretion of the editorial staff. The editors reserve 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 envelope. Telephone contributions on late-breaking news or last- minute insertions are accepted. However, phone-in contributions of long articles will not be accepted. The phone number is (913) 272-5821 Ext. 31. DEADLSNE FOR EACH EDITION IS THE 15TH OF THE PRECEDING MONTH Articles printed do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Animal Keepers' Forum editorial staff or the American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. Items in this publication may be reprinted providing credit to this publication is given. Reprints may be ordered from the editor PRINTED IN THE U.S.A. Zoo 4 Aquarium Month > m S3 HI a s o ^ S? 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